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TorGuard VPN Review: Is It Truly Worth the Cost?

  • Last updated October 2, 2024
  • written by
    Senior Writer

TorGuard is a costly option that focuses on torrenting protection. However, I found it challenging to use in my TorGuard VPN Review. The free trial and refund process involves unnecessary complications, leaving me questioning whether it truly justifies the price.

Based on my VPN reviews, TorGuard offers good security features, but better alternatives are available. If you’re looking for a more user-friendly VPN with fast speeds, excellent security, and hassle-free torrenting, ExpressVPN is a superior alternative to TorGuard.

In this review, I’ll be diving into TorGuard as a whole, exploring its pricing options and features, and sharing my personal experience with it. There’s a lot to cover, so let’s jump right in and see if it lives up to its reputation.

Key Takeaways

  • Server Network: 3000+ servers across 50 countries; strong in Europe but less competitive with some premium VPNs.
  • Privacy and Security: Uses AES 256-bit encryption with multiple protocols (OpenVPN, WireGuard); solid no-logs policy despite US jurisdiction.
  • Speed: Good overall speed, upto 89.17 Mbps download and 74.42 Mbps upload.
  • Netflix Support: Requires dedicated IP for streaming, which costs extra.
  • Torrenting: Excellent for P2P and torrenting with SOCKS5 proxies and port forwarding features​.

TorGuard VPN Review – Overview

In this TorGuard VPN Review, I’ll break down the key features, pricing, and benefits of this VPN to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your needs.

TorGuard VPN Features Details
Price 9.99 USD/month
Money Back Guarantee 7 Days
Does VPN keep logs? No
Number of servers 3000+
Number of devices per license 12
Kill switch Yes
Based in country United States
Support 24/7 live chat
Supports torrenting Yes

TorGuard VPN Review – Key Findings

Here are my key findings after conducting this TorGuard VPN review:

  • Pricing – Expensive plans starting from US$9.99/mo
  • Server Network – Offers 3000+ VPN servers across 68 server locations in 50 countries
  • Security  – Kill switch, WireGuard, OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP/IPsec, IKEV2, SSTP, and more
  • Speed – Fast speeds on most servers
  • Streaming – Works with Netflix and YouTube TV but not Hulu or BBC iPlayer
  • Torrenting – Suitable for torrenting due to port forwarding, Socks5, and kill switch
  • Device Compatibility – Offers native apps for major operating systems like iOS, Android, macOS, Windows, and Linux
  • Ease of Use – Easy to install apps and fairly straightforward process
  • Bypass Censorship – Works in China, but speeds aren’t consistent
  • Customer Support – Reachable through email and ticketing system, but there’s no live chat

Pros

  • Offers a variety of security protocols for protection.
  • Provides DNS leak protection options to ensure privacy.
  • Allows highly customizable subscriptions based on user needs.
  • Works in China, overcoming censorship barriers.
  • Includes a seven-day free trial for new users.
  • The first month is free on all premium plans.

Cons

  • The user interface is not very intuitive and may be difficult for beginners.
  • Split tunneling is only available for Android users.
  • Streaming with the Standard plan requires a dedicated IP address.
  • The money-back-guarantee lasts only seven days, which is shorter than competitors.
  • No public audits to verify its security claims.
  • Based in a country that’s part of the Five Eyes alliance, which could raise privacy concerns.

Pricing – How Much Does TorGuard Cost?

TorGuard’s pricing structure can be somewhat complex. They offer more than just a VPN, including secure email options and VPN routers. With various features and add-ons available, choosing the right plan might feel confusing.

torguard-pricing-plans-in-USA

Detailed pricing plans for TorGuard VPN services.

Each of TorGuard’s service categories has its own set of plans. These incl

ude Anonymous V

PN, Private VPN Cloud, and Business VPN, each with distinct pricing models:

Plans Price
Anonymous VPN (Standard) US$9.99/mo
Anonymous VPN (Pro)  US$12.9/mo
Business VPN US$32.99/mo
Anonymous Email  US$3.58/mo

Within the Anonymous VPN category, you can choose from Standard, Pro, and Premium plans, available on a monthly or annual basis. While annual subscriptions are more affordable, auto-renewal costs can be quite high.

I recommend starting with the standard one-month plan to test its performance. Pro and premium options offer more device connections and include a TorGuard dedicated IP, but the premium plan’s free router is limited to annual subscribers.

Overall, in my TorGuard VPN Review, I found TorGuard to be more expensive compared to many other VPNs I’ve tested. The 7-day money-back guarantee is quite minimal, especially when compared to other services offering 30-day guarantees or more. I was also disappointed by the lack of support when trying to get a refund.

There is a 7-day TorGuard free trial, but it has odd conditions. You need to send proof of your current VPN subscription to customer service to qualify. If you continue after the trial, you might qualify for a free month through their Fresh Start” program. However, I feel competitors offer much better terms with longer refund windows.

Additionally, you can claim your refund by canceling your TorGuard subscription before the money-back period ends. And if you’re looking for a little more premium VPN at discounted rates, we would suggest you check out my VPN deals right away.


Servers and Locations – How Many Servers Does TorGuard Have?

TorGuard offers 3000+ VPN servers across 68 server locations in 50 countries. You should explore the availability of servers and the count, as it is an important aspect before subscribing to a VPN service. Checking the TorGuard server list is crucial to ensure that the VPN provides coverage in the regions you need.

torguard-server-network-in-USA

TorGuard server network overview and global availability.

Server availability in a particular geographic region gives VPN users access to content restricted to that area only, making it a key factor when choosing a VPN provider. Unfortunately, TorGuard doesn’t own all of its servers, as some are rented. On the bright side, their servers are RAM-only, meaning all data is wiped when they are rebooted.

On a positive note, all servers operate at the city level, which allows users to estimate how far away they are. There are also stealth servers available in countries like Argentina, Russia, and Singapore, which help bypass restrictions often found in places like schools and workplaces.

Additionally, secure streaming, gaming, and dedicated residential IP addresses are offered for an extra charge, providing a constant personal IP for users who need one.

One thing I found lacking was transparency regarding virtual server locations. Unfortunately, you need to sign up for an account to see which servers are physically located, and this could be clearer upfront on their website. As I mentioned in my TorGuard VPN Review free section, while they offer a 7-day free trial, the conditions are not as user-friendly as some competitors.

Overall, TorGuard’s server network could be better distributed globally. Although I didn’t face connection issues, a colleague experienced repeated login errors when attempting to connect to servers. If you’re looking for a VPN with a broader, more reliable server network, there are better options available with more coverage.


Security and Privacy – Is TorGuard VPN Safe?

Yes, TorGuard VPN is generally safe to use. It offers robust security features like military-grade encryption, secure protocols, and a kill switch to ensure your online safety. However, some of its features, such as its Scripts system and ad-blocker, may be complicated for users to set up. While TorGuard excels in security, its complexity might be a drawback for those looking for a more user-friendly VPN.

Encryption

TorGuard uses AES-256 encryption, which is widely regarded as the industry gold standard. This type of encryption ensures top-level security, effectively protecting your data from hacking and interception.

Security Protocols

TorGuard supports a variety of security protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, IPSec, and L2TP/IPSec. The inclusion of WireGuard is particularly notable, as it is one of the fastest and most efficient protocols, making it ideal for activities like gaming and torrenting.

OpenVPN, being open-source, is another great option known for its reliability and regular updates from the cybersecurity community. IKEv2, though older, is lightweight and useful for mobile devices.

However, one downside is that the app only allows users to switch between OpenVPN and WireGuard directly. To use other protocols, like PPTP or SSTP, you’ll need to configure them manually, which can be a time-consuming process. Many competitors make it easier to switch between all available protocols directly within their apps.

Logging Policy

However, since TorGuard’s based in the United States, people have certain reservations. Because the country’s actively a part of the 5 Eyes Alliance, which has been known to keep tabs on its citizen’s activities across the web.

Even though this VPN hasn’t been audited like ExpressVPN or NordVPN, TorGuard has a strict no-logs policy. It only stores minimal data through which your activity logs cannot be tracked. You can see for yourself the information TorGuard stores:

torguard-privacy-policy-in-USA

TorGuard data collection policies and privacy practices.

Kill Switch

In case your VPN connection drops for any reason, TorGuard has a kill switch that ensures you’re cut off from the internet immediately. Furthermore, TorGuard also offers a feature called App Kill which can terminate your selected apps in case your VPN connection drops.

Leaks – Does TorGuard leak IP, DNS & WebRTC?

TorGuard managed to pass all the leak tests. I used the same Canada server to check for any leaks. Here are the test results:

IP Test

TorGuard successfully passed our IP leak test. I connected to TorGuard’s Canadian servers, and my test showed I was in possession of an IP address from Canada. So, it didn’t leak my actual IP address, as you can see in the screenshot below:

torguard-IP-Test-in-USA

IP test results showing TorGuard’s effectiveness in masking user IP.

DNS Test

Similarly, I also carried out a DNS leak test for TorGuard. I connected to its Canadian servers, and my test showed I had a Canadian IP address. So, it didn’t leak our actual DNS information, as you can see in the screenshot below:

torguard-DNS-Test-in-USA

DNS leak test results for TorGuard VPN.

Split Tunneling

TorGuard’s split tunneling feature allows users to choose specific apps or websites to route through the VPN while others can connect through the regular internet. However, it’s important to note that this feature is only available on the Android version of the app.

Stealth VPN

TorGuard’s Stealth VPN uses advanced technology to disguise VPN traffic as regular HTTPS traffic. This is particularly useful for bypassing restrictions on networks that block VPNs, such as those found in schools or hotels.

Private VPN Cloud

TorGuard also offers a Private VPN Cloud, which allows users to set up their own private VPN network. This service is particularly useful for businesses, as it provides remote access to home devices, allows resource sharing within the cloud, and supports hosting apps or servers. However, like many of TorGuard’s advanced features, it can be complicated to use and may be overkill for those simply seeking online privacy.


Speed – How Fast is TorGuard VPN?

TorGuard offers good speeds. When I conducted my TorGuard speed test, I am quite surprised by the test results as I received an average download speed of 85.27 Mbps and an upload speed of 60.32 Mbps.

torguard-speed-test-in-USA

Speed test results highlighting TorGuard’s performance.

Here’s a brief table containing all the speed test results for your convenience.

Server Location Download Speeds Upload Speeds Pings
Australia 78.67 Mbps 43.92 Mbps 333 ms
Brazil 88.34 Mbps 57.67 Mbps 323 ms
France 89.17 Mbps 74.42 Mbps 116 ms
Germany 90 Mbps 77.09 Mbps 132 ms
Hong Kong 85.84 Mbps 39.67 Mbps 120 ms
India 90 Mbps 58.5 Mbps 193 ms
Israel 86.67 Mbps 66.47 Mbps 187 ms
Singapore 75.42 Mbps 63.84 Mbps 85 ms
Switzerland 83.34 Mbps 61.34 Mbps 145 ms

Suffice to say, I could carry out all my tasks of streaming, torrenting, and browsing with ease, thanks to TorGuard servers. In short, I faced no issues with lagging or buffering that would interrupt my experience. I tested servers from different countries, and regardless of how far I was from the location I connected to, I consistently received stable speeds.


How Does TorGuard VPN’s Speed Compare to ExpressVPN and NordVPN?

TorGuard VPN’s speed is generally good, particularly for torrenting and gaming. However, it tends to be slower compared to ExpressVPN and NordVPN, both of which consistently offer faster speeds across different servers.

ExpressVPN is known for its excellent performance and speed, making it ideal for streaming without buffering, while NordVPN balances fast speeds with strong security features. Overall, TorGuard may perform well for basic tasks, but ExpressVPN and NordVPN are better choices for speed-sensitive activities like streaming and gaming.


Streaming – Does TorGuard Work With Netflix?

Yes, TorGuard works with various regions of Netflix. However, the regular VPN bundle of Torguard might not work so well for this task because they offer dedicated streaming IPs that are optimized to work with Netflix and other streaming services. You can find out more in my article on using TorGuard for Netflix.

However, users will have to spend extra cash in order to get streaming IP addresses because the basic TorGuard bundle does not support Netflix.

I had no issues unblocking YouTube TV using TorGuard for catching up on the latest shows and movies without any delays:

torguard-unblock-youtube-tv-in-USA

TorGuard unblocking YouTube TV successfully.

With OpenVPN protocol and AES 256-bit encryption algorithm activated, your ISP won’t be able to monitor your internet activities. Likewise, TorGuard will hide your true identity in torrent swarms, keeping you safe from copyright sharks.

Streaming Platforms Unblocked by TorGuard
Netflix US
YouTube TV
BBC iPlayer
Hulu

Is TorGuard Good for Torrenting?

Yes, TorGuard is a good choice for torrenting. It is a super fast VPN that offers a kill switch, port forwarding, and a strong zero-logs policy.

torguard-torrenting-in-USA

TorGuard’s effectiveness and speed while torrenting.

It is a renowned VPN and proxy service for torrents and P2P as well. TorGuard VPN has servers designated for the use of torrents. I tested TorGuard for torrenting and found no IP leakage, strong security, and good overall performance. Although, you’ll find P2P traffic on BitTorrent is blocked on TorGuard’s US servers.

Based on my experience, TorGuard worked well with Vuze and uTorrent. The download speed wasn’t capped at all, but it varied within the range of 6MB/s to 10MB/s and even went further at times. That’s why we deemed it worthy of being used for torrenting.


Device Compatibility – What Devices Are Best Compatible With TorGuard VPN?

TorGuard supports most operating systems and hence can be used with most devices. For instance, Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, and routers work perfectly well with TorGuard. You can find the setup for each on TorGuard’s official website.

torguard-device-compatibility-in-USA

TorGuard’s compatibility with multiple devices and operating systems.

Device compatibility is another aspect to look forward to when buying a VPN. Your security is flawed when only a single device you use is protected by a VPN, whereas the rest remain vulnerable to unauthorized assault.

Desktop – Apps for Windows, Mac, and Linux

The Mac and Windows apps are quite similar in terms of features and usability. They both offer a straightforward interface, making them easy to navigate even with advanced features. One downside, however, is the need for manual setup when using certain protocols. On the plus side, TorGuard offers one of the few VPN apps for Linux that includes a full graphical interface, making it more user-friendly for Linux users.

Android and iPhone (iOS)

The key difference between the Android and iOS apps is that only Android users can access the split tunneling feature. Additionally, both mobile apps require manual installation for OpenVPN, which can be a hassle compared to competitors that make it easier to switch between protocols on mobile devices.

Browser Extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge

TorGuard offers browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Microsoft Edge. These extensions allow you to use a variety of server locations, similar to the desktop app. However, it’s important to remember that these are just proxy extensions, meaning your traffic is not encrypted, and they only work within the browser.

Router Compatibility

You can also purchase a pre-configured router from TorGuard. Available routers include models like the GL.iNet AR750S, Linksys WRT32X, ASUS RT-AC88U, and TP-LINK C7. If you prefer to use your existing router, TorGuard offers compatibility with several firmware options like Tomato, DD-WRT, and pfsense, allowing you to secure your entire home network with VPN encryption.

Simultaneous Device Connections

TorGuard allows up to 12 devices to connect simultaneously with each subscription. You can also pay an additional fee for extra device connections. During my tests, I connected multiple devices including a Windows laptop, two Android phones, an iPad, and an iPhone, all of which worked without any lag or performance issues. This feature makes it easy to protect multiple devices at once.

Additionally, you can install TorGuard on Firestick or use it with Kodi. Users can also configure TorGuard for Roku if they have a compatible router.

If you experience any connectivity issues, you can check out the discussion about TorGuard not working in my blog.

Installation & Apps

In my TorGuard VPN Review, I found that the installation and app setup could be somewhat clunky. I experienced some difficulties downloading and installing TorGuard, and several of its features were a bit complicated to configure.

torguard-windows-in-USA

TorGuard has a user-friend interface for its windows client.

On the positive side, TorGuard supports a wide range of operating systems and third-party software, far more than many smaller VPNs I’ve tested. I was particularly impressed with its compatibility with tools like BitVise, SSH Client, and AnyConnect, which provide added flexibility for different use cases.

Setup & Installation

In my experience with the TorGuard download, the setup and installation process were not as smooth as I had hoped. Initially, I had trouble with the download stalling multiple times, requiring several restarts to complete. Once the download finished, my antivirus flagged the app as potentially unsafe, which raised concerns.

To be sure, I ran the file through VirusTotal, and it was flagged as malware. After contacting support, they assured me it was a false positive, which put me at ease, but it was still a frustrating experience.

TorGuard-support-confirms-false-positive-virus-alert-in-USA

TorGuard support confirming virus alert as a false positive.

Despite my reservations, I decided to proceed with the installation. Once installed, the app worked fine, and I didn’t encounter any major issues using it. However, I found one annoying limitation: I couldn’t switch to another server while already connected to one without disconnecting first, which added an extra step to the process.


Bypass Censorship – Does TorGuard Work in China?

Yes, TorGuard works in China, considering it offers special China DNS servers designed to work within the country’s border and overcome the Great Firewall of China. You should be able to access popular websites like Gmail, Twitter, and Facebook. However, the connections you establish may not be smooth. It’ll be inconsistent and not as quick as you’d like.

Instead, you can opt for other VPNs that offer obfuscation technology, ensuring you can access Chinese servers without running into any issues.


Customer Support – How Good is TorGuard VPN’s Customer Support?

TorGuard offers 24/7 customer support because not every one of us is tech-savvy. VPN is a sophisticated technology. It usually runs smoothly on your device, but sometimes you may encounter some technical glitches or compatibility issues.

These issues might be difficult to resolve, but customer support personnel can complete them in minutes.

If you are a new user, you might also need help with VPN software installation. Also, some devices are incompatible with the software, and you need to configure a VPN on them manually. Customer support will always be there to assist you in any regard.

TorGuard offers prompt customer and tech support. TorGuard’s live support is operational during their working hours. However, you can always contact them via email, and your concern will be promptly resolved.

torguard-customer-support-outside-USA

Contacting customer support via email is not hard. All you need to do is enter your name, email, subject, and your concern. TorGuard customer support is prompt and quite equipped to resolve sophisticated concerns. Thus, your issue shall be resolved in no time.


Alternatives to TorGuard

TorGuard’s services are extensive enough to satisfy the needs of most digital privacy enthusiasts. However, if you are still looking for more, you can look up some other VPNs I have reviewed.

  • NordVPN Review – Fast, secure, and feature-rich, ideal for privacy and streaming.
  • ProtonVPN Review – High security, no logs, with a focus on privacy.
  • PureVPN Review – Global server access, affordable plans, but inconsistent performance.
  • VPNBook Review – Free VPN service with limited servers and basic features.
  • Surfshark VPN Review – Budget-friendly, unlimited devices, and great for streaming worldwide.

FAQs – TorGuard VPN Review

No, you cannot get a TorGuard VPN free account. You’ll need to get a TorGuard subscription from their official site to be able to use the app. In case you face any issues, you may contact TorGuard’s customer support through email or chat.

The TorGuard controversy involves allegations against the company’s CEO regarding attempted fraudulent transactions totaling approximately €2,000. These transactions were reportedly carried out through the VPN service by an anonymous user but were ultimately declined by the bank.

TorGuard is available in over 50 countries, including the U.S., Australia, Canada, Germany, Japan, France, and many others across Europe, Asia, and the Americas. The service offers 3,000+ servers worldwide to ensure global coverage.

Yes, NordVPN is considered better than TorGuard in every category tested, including pricing, speed, and user interface. NordVPN’s overall performance and ease of use give it the edge over TorGuard.

Yes, TorGuard has the ability to block ads on Android, iOS, and PCs. Thus allowing you an ad-free experience and keeping your information secure. You’re likely to have a faster internet connection with no ads bothering you from time to time.

Yes, TorGuard is a good VPN. It comes packed with security features and also offers a privacy-friendly no-logs policy. It is a suitable option for torrenting. However, ExpressVPN provides faster speeds, a more intuitive interface, and seamless torrenting support, making it a superior choice for most users.

Yes, TorGuard is still safe and secure. It offers multiple tunneling protocols that have been rated quite reliable over the years. It even caters to TCP and UDP connections. In terms of encryption, you can choose between AES 128-bit or AES 256-bit with OpenVPN on more TorGuard apps. However, ExpressVPN offers a more user-friendly experience, faster speeds, and seamless torrenting support across all servers.

Yes, ToGuard is a legal VPN registered by VPNetworks LLC under the Data Protection Services LLC, a holding company headquartered in the United States. So, it operates under US legal jurisdiction.


Final Thoughts – Do I Recommend TorGuard?

In my TorGuard VPN Review, I found that while TorGuard offers solid speeds for gaming and torrenting, its high price, complicated settings, and refund policy make it a less attractive option. I had some issues with connection stability, and the setup was more complex than I expected.

Overall, I wouldn’t strongly recommend TorGuard, as many VPNs offer more user-friendly interfaces, better support, and larger server networks. I personally prefer ExpressVPN for its seamless experience, faster speeds, reliable streaming, and excellent privacy protection, offering much better value for money.

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