NordVPN sells its VPN in three main plans: Basic, Plus and Ultimate. They all use the same VPN, so the question is which extras you actually need. Here’s a plain-English breakdown.
What every plan includes
Every NordVPN plan gives you the same core VPN service:
- The full server network and the same connection speeds
- Use on up to 10 devices at the same time
- Core VPN features such as a kill switch, split tunneling and the NordLynx protocol
- A 30-day money-back guarantee
If all you want is a VPN for browsing, streaming or public Wi-Fi, these are the parts that matter most.
Basic: just the VPN
Basic is the VPN on its own, plus a lighter version of NordVPN’s Threat Protection. It’s the right pick if you want privacy and security online and don’t need a password manager or cloud storage.
Plus: VPN + security extras
Plus adds:
- Full Threat Protection, which blocks malware and ads
- A data breach scanner that alerts you if your details show up in a leak
- NordPass, NordVPN’s password manager
Choose Plus if you were going to pay for a password manager anyway. Bundling it is usually simpler than managing two subscriptions.
Ultimate: everything, plus storage and identity extras
Ultimate includes everything in Plus and adds:
- Encrypted cloud storage through NordLocker
- Identity theft protection and cyber insurance (availability depends on your country)
Ultimate makes sense if you’d use the cloud storage or want the identity extras. If not, Plus covers most people.
Quick comparison
| You want… | Pick |
|---|---|
| A VPN only | Basic |
| VPN + password manager + ad/malware blocking | Plus |
| All of the above + encrypted cloud storage and identity extras | Ultimate |
How to save on NordVPN
- Longer plans cost less per month. The 1-year and 2-year plans are much cheaper per month than paying monthly.
- Check the renewal price. The first term is often a promotional price, and renewals are usually charged at the standard rate. The checkout page shows both, so read it before you pay.
- Use the money-back guarantee to try it. If NordVPN doesn’t work for you, you can ask for a refund within 30 days. Check the current refund terms on NordVPN’s site first.
- Look for a current deal. NordVPN runs offers through the year, often on its longer plans.
Plans, features and prices change from time to time, so always confirm what’s included on NordVPN’s checkout page before you buy.