Relatively new user to Proton. After testing their VPN for a couple weeks I am going to cancel my ExpressVPN sub. Proton’s VPN is just as good if not better, and I am already paying for it… and I trust Proton… So basically… bye ExpressVPN at the EOM when the subscription is due.
I also switched to Proton coming from Nord and Windscribe.
Of the three VPNs I tried I’d rate 1. Proton 2.Windscribe 3. Nord.
I find Nord’s VPN and Nordpass softwares very buggy or slow. Windscribe is okay but now I completely switched to Proton since the Unlimited plan is super value for me. Still using Bitwarden as my password manager though.
As someone who also uses proton mail, drive and SimpleLogin, I’m an unlimited user. As such, I use ProtonVPN. It does the job, and it’s the only VPN that’s been able to connect all my devices (via stealth protocol) to my work wifi which actively blocks vpns. Highly recommend if you use their other services
Recently switched from Nord after they discontinued IKEv2. Proton actually have better software, better protocol support and comparable if not better speeds.
Only thing missing for me in ProtonVPN is the possibility that it automatically disconnects VPN in case of a trusted WI-FI network. So to speak at home because at home everything already runs via VPN because it is configured on router level.
Can’t complain about any of their services. I’m still trying to get the entire family to leverage the calendar but that’s a me problem.
I really wanted Express (coming from Nord) but then the big buyout happened. Now the dodgy company that took over PIA - which was pretty sketchy itself - also owns Express, Nord, and a whole bunch of others. Windscribe look promising early on but went downhill. I’m going to explore Mullvad at some point, but for the moment, really happy with Proton. Other than their sometimes confusing / opaque pricing and product grouping.
Its absolutely awful on Ubuntu and other Linux distros. It has been that way for years now, the company simply does not care to support Linux users.
But they don’t offer port forwarding though 
Proton Pass is now available.
I have about 2 weeks to make the final decision. Its looking good. I think I get more disconnects which might become annoying but I am going to give it a little more time. Some final testing. I wont be to disappointed if I choose to stay on xpress. I would like to save a few bucks a month but performance and speed is what is most important to me. Proton’s email was my main reason for going with them and dont intend to change. Their products will mature over time. I do like their UI better… much more interesting.
Is there a reason for you not using ikev2 ?
To much of a hassle with my house. People would complain and give me more headaches than I want to deal with.
You are not alone. I think there is a good portion of Proton users trying to get their family and friends on board. It is rough going.
Express is a great VPN, fast and almost never disconnects. I had no complaints. But the buyout was a huge factor. Also, I am paying for Proton and if there is a difference, I have not noticed. PIA I did not use because I thought they were based in the US.
Why did Windscribe go downhill? Just wondering since I’m debating between PVPN and WS.
I dont really use it as a desktop… VM’s, wsl or ssh… But that is disappointing to hear.
That I have not used so it is not an issue for me… yet.
Port Forwarding is available in Windows. I checked ProtonVPN’s Settings.
Assuming you’re on the free tier the disconnects and slowness stop once you’re a paid user.