NordVPN vs. AtlasVPN – Which Provider is the Best?

NordVPN is undoubtedly a recognized name in the VPN industry. Whereas AtlasVPN is in a preliminary stage, offering low-cost services for private browsing and data encryption. In fact, NordVPN acquired Atlas in November 2021; however, the two VPNs operate independently.

Both NordVPN and Atlas have differences in features and functionalities. But NordVPN has significantly way more to offer in terms of performance, security, and compatibility. It has a better speed and application interface with torrenting and streaming options.

To find one winner of the NordVPN vs AtlasVPN competition, we have compiled a detailed comparison review based on 12 testing categories. Both VPNs have good records, but NordVPN is the winner with remarkable performance on many grounds.

In this post, we highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the two service providers to help you select the right one.

Detailed Analysis: NordVPN vs. AtlasVPN [Updated 2023]

Here’s a detailed analysis to review NordVPN vs. AtlasVPN:

Unblocking Strength

VPN’s unblocking strength shows its capacity to access streaming services globally. Major streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, etc impose strict geo-restrictions on access from international regions.

NordVPN and AtlasVPN are known as the best VPNs for streaming. To assess the unblocking strength of the two VPNs, they were tested for several popular streaming channels. The test results indicate which of the streaming channels can be accessed with these VPNs.

We have listed the results of VPN unblocking capacity in the table:

Luckily, you can unblock all streaming channels tested, such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime with NordVPN. However, it took some time for unblocking YouTube TV but accessed it after a couple of attempts.

On the other hand, AtlasVPN could successfully bypass the restrictions on Netflix, and Hulu, but had a few hiccups while unblocking YouTube TV and HBO Max.

Although both NordVPN and AtlasVPN unblocked many streaming platforms, NordVPN got an upper hand for its built-in SmartDNS feature, called SmartPlay. It is useful for setting up Smart TVs, like Apple TV with NordVPN, or devices with no VPN support to bypass geo-restrictions.

As NordVPN unblocked more streaming platforms than AtlasVPN and offers a SmartDNS mode for devices that don’t support VPNs, NordVPN is the winner in this category.

Device Compatibility

VPNs must provide compatibility for different platforms and devices in order to facilitate customers worldwide. Here’s a brief comparison of all the devices that the two support:

NordVPN and AtlasVPN support all popular operating systems, such as Android, Windows, iOS, Linux, and Mac systems. Moreover, both VPNs offer proxy extensions for Chrome and Firefox.

AtlasVPN allows unlimited device connections simultaneously, letting several users consume the same VPN account regardless of their locations. Comparatively, NordVPN permits up to 6 at once. However, it has compensated this lag by providing us with the support of more devices and gaming console compatibility.

Both VPNs offer protection for mobile phones, desktops, laptops, tablets, and TVs. In addition, NordVPN supports gaming consoles and routers, which is missing in AtlasVPN. You can also configure NordVPN on the router to safeguard all the devices connected to the network.

NordVPN has dedicated apps for Android and iOS mobile phones. These apps are easy to use and configure. Their interface is clean and simple to navigate.

1. Mac

NordVPN and AtlasVPN are compatible with macOS devices, offering secure connections and unlimited data. With NordVPN, you can secure your iPad, iPhone, or simply any Apple device.

The NordVPN app is available for almost all Mac devices, including MacBook Pro, Mac Mini, iMac, MacBook Air, and Mac Pro. Additionally, it works with macOS 10.15 Catalina, macOS 11 Big Sur, macOS 12 Monterey, and macOS 13 Ventura.

2. Windows

Both NordVPN and AtlasVPN offer dedicated apps for Windows laptops and desktop systems. NordVPN offers simple setups for Windows 7 Service Pack 1, Windows 8.1, Windows 10 (version 1607 or later), and Windows 11.

You can enjoy unlimited data for streaming and unrestricted conquests for gaming at fast speeds with the two VPNs on Windows systems.

3. Linux

AtlasVPN is compatible with i386 and x86_64 Linux systems. It offers a simple common-line interface for the Linux app. It allows switching between the protocols conveniently.

NordVPN provides client for armv5, armv7, aarch64, i386, and x86_64. You can secure your Debian, Elementary OS, Ubuntu, RPM-based distros, and Linux Mint systems with NordVPN.

4. iOS

NordVPN and Atlas VPN bring iOS protection for iPhone and iPad. NordVPN users get advanced protection with dark web monitors, kill switch, threat protection, and Onion Over VPN.

5. Android

NordVPN offers android app versions from Android 6.0 all the way up to Android 13.0. It comes with a dark mode, kill switch, ad-blocker, malware protection, and the latest protocols for many Android devices, including Android TVs.

AtlasVPN android app offers split tunneling, up-to-date protocols, and unlimited access for Android devices.

6. Routers

With NordVPN’s router connection, you can secure unlimited devices on the network with a single NordVPN account. Your computers, smart TVs, smartphones, gaming consoles, and a whole range of devices come under VPN protection via a router.

You can either manually set up the VPN on the router or get it pre-configured. However, NordVPN doesn’t provide a dedicated app for routers.

Atlas VPN neither extends support to routers nor offers an app currently.

7. Firestick 

Both NordVPN and Atlas VPN support Fire TV and Firestick. Atlas VPN ensures 4K speed servers with unlimited bandwidth for Fire TV and Firestick.

The NordVPN app for firestick is equipped with tough encryption and ultra-fast speed that prevents bandwidth throttling. Its user-friendly app integrates well with firestick devices.

After a detailed comparative analysis of these two in terms of compatibility, we declared NordVPN a clear winner. Even though the provider falls short of providing unlimited simultaneous connection support, it didn’t disappoint us with its overall performance across all commonly-used devices. AtlastVPN, on the other hand, offers unlimited simultaneous support but is not compatible with gaming consoles and routers.

Security and Encryption

In this section, we have reviewed all the protection measures offered by the two to gauge the true winner. Both VPNs offer a substantial amount of security protection, but NordVPN provides advanced protection to users. Here’s a brief

Both NordVPN and Atlas VPN follow the strongest AES-256-bit encryption, with the SHA-512 hash. However, NordVPN goes the extra mile with its RAM-only servers, which erase all data after every reboot session. User data is completely protected as no information is at risk of stealth.

NordVPN brings threat protection to prevent ads, malicious sites, and trackers from harming users. Moreover, it offers a dark web monitor, which notifies the user in case personal data is detected on the dark web.

On the other hand, AtlasVPN has a data breach monitor that investigates if any user data has been exposed online. AtlasVPN private servers are overall secure and protected.

In terms of region, NordVPN has headquarters in Panama, which is privacy-friendly and safe. Meanwhile, Atlas VPN is based in the US, which is a known member of the 5 Eyes Alliance, hence, it’s not safe.

Logs and Privacy

User activity and identity protection are important factors for assessing VPN credibility. On top of this, the VPN headquarters’ location plays a vital role in reviewing user privacy rights in that region.

Although both VPNs claim to follow a no-logs policy, NordVPN offers far more advanced security features than Atlas VPN. With NordVPN, you get RAM-only servers and an audited no-logs policy. Moreover, it belongs to a location that doesn’t belong to any surveillance alliances.

Speaking of which,AtlasVPN has headquarters in the U.S.A., a member of the 5 Eyes Alliance. On the other hand, NordVPN is based in a privacy-safe country, Panama. Countries that hold membership in any surveillance alliance are bound to collect user data and may use or distribute it for any purpose. Therefore, Atlas VPN can’t be trusted for user data protection.

Both VPNs allow anonymous payment methods, such as cryptocurrency (Bitcoin) for enhanced identity protection on the network. They also provide transparent and well-defined privacy policies, available on their official websites.

NordVPN’s no-log policy clearly states what user data is collected in each session and how is it processed. In terms of privacy, NordVPN has a strong image than Atlas VPN as no timestamps, IP addresses, traffic logs, or personal information is accessed or stored by this VPN.

Meanwhile, AtlasVPN claims to collect payment data, email addresses, IP addresses, device information, access logs, etc. Some of these instances are alarming for user privacy, threatening their existence on the platform.

Furthermore, NordVPN has been audited twice by a Switzerland-based company. It also offers Double VPN protection where it masks the user’s IP twice to prevent identity exposure.

To check NordVPN encryption efficiency, we conducted IP/DNS test on NordVPN. As a result, it successfully passed the test.

Speed Tests

The speed of the VPNs is a parameter for gauging performance and service quality. Interestingly, both NordVPN and AtlasVPN are known to be the fastest VPNs in the industry. To find the winner of the NordVPN vs. Atlas VPN review in terms of speed, we have compared them thoroughly.

Both VPNs have some protocol integrations, where AtlasVPN only offers IKEv2 and WireGuard protocols, while NordVPN brings more options to pick from, such as NordLynx, IKEv2, and OpenVPN (TCP and UDP).

NordLynx is far faster than WireGuard, offering security and speed simultaneously. To test the two VPNs, a network with 100 Mbps download and upload speed was used.

The test results are recorded below:

In terms of upload speed, NordVPN’s NordLynx performed significantly better than Atlas VPN. While testing the download speed, NordVPN had only a 13.5% of speed drop, which shows its remarkable strength. Whereas Atlas VPN experienced a 43.5% drop in speed, indicating it to be slower than NordLynx by many levels.

On testing IKEv2, NordVPN experienced a 17% drop in upload speed, whereas Atlas VPN gives a 55% drop. Considering the download speed, NordVPN had a 10% drop while Atlas VPN was 48%. These results weren’t surprising as IKEv2 generally gets slower on moving farther from the server.

NordVPN proved to be a true streaming VPN by delivering fast-speed results during our test.

Check out our NordVPN speed test review for a clear picture of the performance.

Servers Network

VPNs with wide server network coverage allow quick connections to more users residing in different regions. NordVPN has clearly more extensive global coverage than Atlas VPN in all aspects.

Some of the facts have been compiled below:

Atlas VPN has 750+ servers in 38 countries (45 locations), while NordVPN provides 6000+ servers in 61 countries. It has 7 times or 87% more servers than Atlas VPN, spread in Europe, America, the Middle East, and Asia Pacific regions.

Both NordVPN and Atlas VPN have more server concentration in Europe. NordVPN has the least server distribution in the Middle East, whereas Atlas VPN mentions no server in the Middle East region category. However, it does have servers in Israel and the United Arab Emirates.

Features

VPN functionality highly depends on the features it offers. Although both VPNs provide basic features, some advanced services enhance the value and standing of a VPN.

Although both VPNs offer essential features required to perform standard operations, NordVPN offers clearly more features and benefits to users. Meshnet and Smart DNS are noticeably two additional features that you get with NordVPN.

NordVPN significantly provides extra protection from cyber risks and threats. On top of this, its special servers are great for performing different functions.

Split Tunneling

The split tunneling feature is available in both NordVPN and Atlas VPN, which is super efficient for using a partial VPN connection. It lets you select which apps you want to run or protect through a VPN connection while routing the others via a normal connection.

NordVPN offers split tunneling for Windows and Android users. The Windows app users can both disable and enable certain apps on the VPN connection, while only disabling apps function is available for Android users. Currently, this feature is not available in Linux, iOS, and Mac systems.

In the case of Atlas VPN, you get split tunneling in Android only, where you can choose the apps that you want to disable. It’s a handy tool that lets you enjoy unrestricted gaming on a super-fast VPN connection, while your browsing activities are held on a regular connection.

Smart DNS

NordVPN outperforms Atlas VPN with one of its exclusive Smart DNS features. It’s a streaming-focused feature, which allows bypassing geo-restrictions and blocks while streaming. With NordVPN Smart DNS, you can enjoy Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and a whole range of streaming services smoothly.

The fact which makes this feature more special is that it even runs on devices that don’t support VPN connections at all. As most devices let you change DNS settings, this feature turns on automatically when you access streaming platforms. Keep in mind that if you use this feature without a client, it doesn’t encrypt your data.

To use this feature without any complications, you can simply enable the Smart DNS option from your account.

Specialty Servers

Both NordVPN and Atlas VPN provide specialty servers. However, NordVPN stands out with a variety of servers.

Some of the servers you get with NordVPN:

• P2P servers: servers particularly optimal for P2P file exchange and torrenting
• DoubleVPN servers: two servers combined together for complete privacy
• Obfuscated servers: servers that allow bypassing strict bans and censorship by covering your VPN usage to prevent detection
• Onion Over VPN servers: servers that send your data and internet traffic through multiple VPN servers and Tor nodes to protect you from being traced back

On the other hand, Atlas VPN has an army of servers guaranteeing extra protection and smooth streaming.

The servers Atlas VPN offers:

• Streaming servers: servers that help you prevent buffering and lags while streaming for improved performance.
• SafeSwap servers: servers that keep rotating your IP address, making it hard to trace your original identity.
• MultHop+ servers: servers that enable multiple VPN protection or masking, same as your connections of double VPN servers.

In addition to the personalized servers you get with both VPN providers, you can also purchase a dedicated IP address, a unique address that remains the same throughout the usage, separately with NordVPN. This address is not shared with anyone on the network and only you use that specific address.

Extra Features

With NordVPN and Atlas VPN, you get some additional features like threat protection. Atlas VPN protects users against malicious sites and third-party trackers, whereas you get added protection with NordVPN that blocks ads, malware, and dangerous files on top of standard protection.

Both NordVPN and Atlas VPN offer a kill switch, which is super convenient for privacy protection. It shuts down your internet connection when your VPN connection drops suddenly to prevent data leakage.

Moreover, NordVPN scores ahead of Atlas VPN with its Meshnet feature, which lets users create a remote connection using multiple devices from different locations. It allows participating in various LAN parties and accessing files remotely.

Netflix Streaming Test

Netflix is one popular streaming platform for users, which is blocked in many regions. Luckily, both AtlasVPN and NordVPN unblock Netflix in many locations. In fact, they build reliable connections for accessing geo-restricted streaming sites from different regions.

With a massive server network of NordVPN, you can access Netflix streams from almost anywhere in the world. Its 6000 servers spread across 61 countries provide wide coverage and access to users.

NordVPN has a special Smart DNS feature for streaming that helps bypass any geo-blocks and it can be used on devices with no VPN connection support.

Moreover, its dedicated IP address feature can let you access blocked content and sites from literally any corner of the world. Additionally, NordVPN speeds are exceptionally fast for all locations. Therefore, NordVPN can be considered an ideal VPN service for Netflix streaming.

However, in the case of Atlas VPN, the options are limited. You can connect to 750+ servers located in 38 countries. It can effortlessly unblock some Netflix libraries from different parts of the world.

Here are the details of the Netflix libraries unblocked by the two VPNs:

When both VPNs were tested for accessing Netflix libraries, NordVPN was able to unblock 9 libraries out of 10, which is pretty impressive. It just couldn’t work for Swedish Netflix.

Atlas VPN, on the other hand, unblocked 7 Netflix libraries, failing for Japanese, Korean, and Swedish Netflix.

Gaming Compatibility

With DDoS and personal attacks becoming common on gaming platforms, players need a safe connection. VPNs with gaming compatibility are preferable for users who want a high-speed and secure gaming environment.

Another advantage of having a VPN connection for gaming is the lag-free activity and lower ping rate.

Both NordVPN and Atlas VPN support gaming and provide protection against DDoS attempts. However, NordVPN offers an ultra-fast and super-secure connection for gaming enthusiasts.

You can access different gaming consoles as well, like PlayStation, Oculus Quest, and Xbox with NordVPN for gaming in the Metaverse. Moreover, it offers 5400+ servers in 60 countries to let you have the best gaming experience.

While Atlas VPN’s gaming services are limited to desktops and mobile phones.

Using NordVPN’s huge server network, we only received the lowest pings which made our gameplay smooth.

Torrenting

VPN servers that allow torrenting are useful for downloading or exchanging files on the network. Users look for secure P2P file-sharing options on the internet with ever-increasing threats and dangers.

While torrenting, you must consider two important factors:

• Speed: the primary factor which matters the most for downloading large-sized files.
• DNS leak protection: to protect data and identity on the network, ensuring secure exchange of files on the network.

NordVPN stands out once again in the NordVPN vs. Atlas VPN race with its P2P-optimized servers dedicated to torrenting, which offer optimal services. Its extra protected and super-fast servers are ideal for high-pace torrenting.

With NordVPN, you can experience the fastest and most protected environment for torrenting.

Atlas VPN, on the other hand, rightly claims to have torrent-friendly servers. Even its free servers allow torrenting. However, in terms of speed, Atlas VPN is not a very ideal option, but if you’re tight on budget, then it can be given a try.

NordVPN is a torrent-friendly VPN service. It offers super fast speed with extra privacy protection while torrenting.

For more information, you can also check out our blog on the best VPN for torrenting.

Pricing

VPN prices depend on the services and duration of the subscription. Users tend to pick the option with the best value for money.

Here’s a short overview of the pricing strategy of NordVPN vs. Atlas VPN:

Both NordVPN and Atlas VPN come with different subscription deals and terms. You get short and long-term plans in both VPNs. Although Atlas VPN has the cheapest plan, it has only one plan available.

In contrast, NordVPN brings a variety of plans with more flexibility and features. It offers around 3 subscription plans – Standard, Plus, and Complete, bundled with different features and tools. You can simply pick anyone that suits your requirements and needs.

NordVPN premium vs. standard services differs in price and features. You get super-fast speed, tracker and ad-blocker, and malware protection in the Standard plan (basic services available in all three packages). The additional functionalities available in the Complete package include a data breach scanner,  cross-platform password manager, and 1 TB cloud storage.

Interestingly, you get a 30-day money-back guarantee with all three plans, which means you can cancel your NordVPN subscription anytime. Moreover, Android and iOS users can avail to free trial services for 7 days.

On the other hand, Atlas VPN offers a free plan for an unlimited time period, it is one of the best free VPNs. It also offers a premium package with a 30-day money-back guarantee, letting you use services without charging a penny for a complete month.

Both VPNs allow different payment methods, such as credit cards, Google Pay, and particularly cryptocurrencies for anonymous payments on the network.

One common strategy of VPNs is the longer their subscription period, the cheaper their packages. Similarly, NordVPN and Atlas VPN charge comparatively higher for a monthly subscription plan at $11.99 and $10.99 respectively. The 1-year plan costs $4.99 for NordVPN and $3.29 for Atlas VPN. NordVPN Premium vs standard packages cost a little more than Atlas VPN, however, in comparison to the server coverage, speeds, and overall features, the difference between the prices is truly negligible.

NordVPN offers a $3.99/mo - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free for a friend, whereas Atlas VPN doesn’t provide any package for a 2-year-long subscription. However, it offers a 3-year plan for $1.99.

Customer Support

Customer service efficiency determines the quality of service provided by the company. No matter which VPN service you purchase, you may need help or support at some point – this is where the customer support team comes to the rescue. Responsive and active customer support service is essential for building trust and reliability among users.

Both NordVPN and AtlasVPN offer excellent customer support service with a wide range of options, such as email support, FAQ section, and 24/7 live chat service. The two VPNs have responsive and efficient agents who respond quickly to customer queries, especially via live chat and email service.

Most users are comfortable using live chat service, where knowledgeable human agents are available 24/7 for help via live chat service. Typically, customers receive a response within a few minutes and get their issues resolved.

In case, you don’t need an urgent response, the second best service you can go with is email support. The turnaround time of agents from the two services is good on emails as well.

To cover common queries and technical issues, both VPNs offer FAQ sections. You can search for the issue that you are facing in FAQs or contact the customer support of these VPN services.

Moreover, you can find informative articles regarding the services and troubleshooting guides for configurations and set up in the blog and Help sections of both VPNs.

The only limitation is the unavailability of the phone line in both VPN customer services.

FAQ – NordVPN vs. AtlasVPN

Conclusion

Here’s what we found after NordVPN vs. Atlas VPN comparative analysis:

Both NordVPN and Atlas VPN are considered good service providers with essential security, privacy, and customer support features. Although Atlas VPN apparently seems well-equipped, NordVPN outperforms in many aspects.

NordVPN offers more server networks, faster speeds, better subscription plans, stronger security measures, robust privacy protection, improved streaming services, and unique features. It’s Smart DNS, P2P-optimized servers, Meshnet, and dedicated IP allocation stand it apart.

Atlas VPN, on the other hand, has limited servers with easy-to-use apps and good customer support service. However, after a detailed NordVPN vs AtlasVPN comparison and a thorough examination of both providers, we have concluded NordVPN is the ultimate winner. You can check our detailed NordVPN review for more details.

You can also check out our comparison analysis between PureVPN and NordVPN. That’s it from our side, don’t forget to tell us, which VPN service you preferred to use.