NordVPN vs ClearVPN by MacPaw
NordVPN suits people who need Linux support, more server countries, or security tools beyond a VPN; ClearVPN by MacPaw suits people who want a simpler one-tap VPN and a lower month-to-month price. Both offer apps for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, but NordVPN also supports Linux and allows more simultaneous connections. ClearVPN emphasizes automatic server selection and an uncomplicated interface.
Last updated November 12, 2026.
At a glance
| Dimension | NordVPN | ClearVPN by MacPaw |
|---|---|---|
| Desktop and mobile apps | Windows, Mac, Linux, Android and iOS | Windows, macOS, Android and iOS |
| VPN server countries | 167+ | 45+ |
| Simultaneous devices | 10 per subscription | 6 per account |
| Personal month-to-month price | Basic: $14.99/month | $9.99/month |
| Longer-term price | Basic: $3.49/month for the first 27 months; $94.23 upfront | $44.99/year |
| Free trial | 7 days for eligible new users on select long-term plans | 3 days |
| Connection options | Double VPN; obfuscated servers | One-tap connection; optimal location selection |
| Bundled tools | Password manager and 1 TB storage with Complete | Not published |
| Dedicated IP | Included with Complete Max | Not published |
| Privacy and app code | Audited no-logs policy; open-source Linux app | No-logs policy |
| Customer support | 24/7 live chat and email | 24/7 customer support |
Scroll the table sideways to compare each row.
Which should you choose?
Choose NordVPN if
- People who need a VPN app for Linux
- Households connecting up to 10 devices at once
- Users who want Double VPN or obfuscated servers
- Buyers seeking VPN, password management, and storage in one plan
Choose ClearVPN by MacPaw if
- People who prefer one-tap connections and automatic server selection
- Buyers seeking a lower month-to-month subscription price
- Households with six or fewer simultaneous devices
- Users who want a VPN without a broader security bundle
The verdict
Pick NordVPN for a mixed-device household, especially one with Linux users, or for options such as Double VPN, obfuscated servers, and plans that bundle a password manager and cloud storage. Pick ClearVPN for straightforward VPN use on its supported devices, particularly if you prefer a lower monthly price without a long commitment. Compare the full billing term before buying: NordVPN’s lowest advertised monthly equivalent requires payment for 27 months upfront, while ClearVPN also offers a yearly subscription.
NordVPN vs ClearVPN by MacPaw: common questions
- Which VPN works on Linux?
- NordVPN offers a Linux app. ClearVPN by MacPaw supports Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS but does not offer a Linux app.
- How many devices can I connect at once?
- NordVPN allows 10 simultaneous devices per subscription; ClearVPN by MacPaw allows up to 6 per account.
- Which costs less if I pay monthly?
- ClearVPN by MacPaw lists a $9.99 monthly subscription. NordVPN lists its Basic plan at $14.99 when billed month to month. Longer-term offers have different prices and billing commitments.
- Which has more server countries?
- NordVPN lists servers in 167+ countries, compared with ClearVPN by MacPaw’s 45+ countries. Check the available locations if you need a particular country.
- Can I try either VPN before subscribing?
- ClearVPN by MacPaw offers a 3-day trial. NordVPN offers a 7-day trial to eligible new users in supported countries on select one- and two-year plans; eligibility and payment-method conditions apply.
- Do both VPNs offer a kill switch?
- Yes. NordVPN and ClearVPN by MacPaw both offer a kill switch that can prevent unprotected traffic if the VPN connection drops.
- Which offers a dedicated IP?
- NordVPN includes a dedicated IP with its Complete Max plan. ClearVPN by MacPaw does not publish a dedicated-IP offering.
- Are either of these team VPN products?
- NordVPN is a personal VPN; Nord sells its business network-access product, NordLayer, separately. ClearVPN by MacPaw describes its subscription as an account for up to six devices rather than a managed team plan.
