AtlasVPN Review: Discover Why It’s One of the Best VPN Services Available
Atlas VPN, launched in 2020, is a virtual private network that enables users to hide their real IP addresses, ensuring anonymous browsing on the internet. Although there are numerous VPNs available, Atlas VPN distinguishes itself with its free plan and competitive paid subscriptions.
But does Atlas VPN live up to its promises? Let’s explore its features and performance to find out.
Key Features of Atlas VPN
Atlas VPN offers several features that set it apart from the competition:
- Protection Shield: Provides optimal security during online browsing, safeguarding against potential threats and preventing unauthorized access to personal information.
- SafeSwap: Enhances connection security by regularly changing the IP address without disconnecting, ensuring higher anonymity.
- Data Breach Monitor: Alerts users about potential security breaches involving their data, allowing for timely protective measures.
- No-Log Policy: Ensures that no records of online activities are kept, maintaining user privacy.
- AES-256 Encryption: Utilizes advanced encryption to protect data from prying eyes, ensuring secure data transfer.
- Numerous Server Locations: Offers access to 750 servers across 38 countries, allowing users to bypass geographic restrictions and access blocked content.
- Network Kill Switch: Automatically disconnects the internet if the VPN connection drops, preventing accidental data leakage.
- Location Detection: Identifies and selects the best-performing servers in the user’s region for a fast and reliable connection.
Atlas VPN: Our Test Results
Security
Atlas VPN guarantees robust security with AES-256 and ChaCha20-Poly1305 encryption protocols, along with IKEv2/IPSec and WireGuard. The Kill Switch feature prevents accidental data leaks by blocking web traffic if the VPN connection is lost. The SafeSwap feature and Tracker Blocker enhance anonymity and block unwanted ads. IP leak tests confirmed no leaks (IP, DNS, WebRTC), demonstrating effective privacy protection.
Speed
Speed tests showed the following results:
- Without VPN: Ping of 6 ms, download speed of 292 Mbps, upload speed of 191 Mbps.
- With VPN (France): Ping of 155 ms, download speed of 292 Mbps, upload speed of 28 Mbps.
- With VPN (USA): Ping of 224 ms, download speed of 206 Mbps, upload speed of 156 Mbps.
While there is some speed reduction, particularly in upload speeds, overall performance remains satisfactory with stable connections.
Streaming and Downloading
Atlas VPN’s streaming performance was mixed:
- Netflix: Detected and blocked VPN usage, not suitable for Netflix streaming.
- Prime Video and Hulu: Accessed with varying success; quality was sometimes inconsistent.
- YouTube: Generally worked well, though quality depended on server choice.
For P2P downloads, Atlas VPN performed satisfactorily, with successful BitTorrent downloads and secure connections, especially on nearby servers.
Pricing
Atlas VPN offers competitive pricing with several subscription options:
- 1 Month Plan: $11.99 per month.
- 1 Year Plan: $4.08 per month ($49.01 annually).
- 2 Years (+3 months free) Plan: $1.83 per month ($71.52 for three years).
The free version includes:
- Access to servers in the USA and the Netherlands.
- Limited bandwidth of 5 GB.
- No speed limitation for free users.
- Security features identical to premium subscriptions.
Paid plans allow unlimited simultaneous connections, and Atlas VPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages:
- Intuitive interface
- Attractive rates and a free version available
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Effective location switching
- Unique features like SafeSwap, MultiHop+, and dedicated streaming servers
Disadvantages:
- Limited network coverage with only 38 countries
- Inconsistent performance with Netflix
- Lack of OpenVPN protocol
Alternatives to Atlas VPN
CyberGhost VPN: Offers a large choice of servers, high security, and compatibility with many streaming platforms. Includes a 45-day money-back guarantee.
ExpressVPN: Known for high speeds, robust encryption, and unblocking streaming services like Netflix. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Surfshark: Features advanced options like camouflage mode and unlimited simultaneous connections. Strong support for streaming platforms.
Verdict: Is Atlas VPN Worth It?
Atlas VPN is a solid choice for users seeking an affordable and straightforward VPN solution for online privacy. It provides robust security features and decent performance for browsing and downloading. However, for users needing advanced options and reliable streaming, alternatives like CyberGhost, ExpressVPN, or Surfshark may be more suitable.
In summary, Atlas VPN is ideal for VPN novices and those prioritizing cost-effective security, but tech enthusiasts might prefer more feature-rich alternatives.