TorGuard is a well-known VPN service attracting users with its low prices, fast streaming capabilities, and extensive customization options. This combination piqued our interest, leading us to conduct a thorough review to determine if TorGuard deserves a spot on our list of top VPN providers. We rigorously tested its speed and reliability across various global servers, evaluated its customer support, and assessed the privacy and value offered by a TorGuard subscription.
Pricing and Plans
TorGuard's three consumer price tiers with monthly and annual options.
TorGuard presents three primary pricing tiers for consumers, offering both monthly and annual billing cycles. While a free version isn’t available, TorGuard provides a seven-day trial to explore the service and its app. If you’re seeking a free VPN option, ProtonVPN is a strong contender.
The standard VPN plan starts at $10 monthly or $30 annually, supporting up to eight simultaneous device connections. The Pro plan, priced at $13 per month or $60 annually, includes a dedicated IP address and allows for 12 devices. Finally, the Premium subscription, costing $15 monthly or $65 annually, permits connections for up to 30 devices. Annual Premium subscribers also receive a free router, essentially making the first year free.
Our review focused on TorGuard’s standard plan, which proved compatible across Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android devices.
Design and User Interface
TorGuard's Windows application interface.
We began by installing the Windows application, which offers the most comprehensive feature set. Alongside the desktop app, we utilized the TorGuard browser extension to enable VPN functionality solely within the browser. While TorGuard lacks a dedicated split-tunneling feature, the browser extension provides a practical alternative for users primarily needing a VPN for browsing.
TorGuard’s user interface is deceptively simple, with advanced settings tucked away for those seeking greater control. This allows both novice and experienced VPN users to easily navigate the application.
TorGuard's connection interface with quick connect option.
A prominent button in the app’s center initiates the VPN connection, typically requiring mere seconds. The button illuminates green to indicate an active connection. A menu in the top-left corner enables protocol selection and IP pinning. WireGuard, generally preferred for its speed and security, is the recommended protocol for most users. OpenVPN and OpenConnect are also supported.
Server selection is accessible by clicking the default server displayed at the bottom. TorGuard boasts over 3,000 servers across 50 countries. While a search function is absent, sorting and filtering options help narrow down the choices. Favoriting servers is also possible for quick access. Stealth servers are available, and users can opt for a dedicated IP address for an additional fee.
Performance: Speed and Reliability
TorGuard's speed test results on a nearby server.
Speed and reliability are paramount in VPN selection. We were impressed with TorGuard’s performance on Canadian and U.S. servers. On a gigabit fiber connection, typically achieving 900Mbps up and down without a VPN, TorGuard maintained impressive speeds. Connecting to the nearest Canadian WireGuard server yielded 785Mbps downloads and 74Mbps uploads, with a ping of 48ms up and 41ms down. A nearby U.S. server delivered 540Mbps downloads and 49Mbps uploads, with a 30ms ping in both directions. These local speeds even surpassed those of Hotspot Shield, a considerably more expensive VPN known for its speed.
TorGuard's speed test results on a U.K. server.
However, performance dipped significantly when testing servers on other continents. European server speeds were noticeably slower, with the best results coming from a French server (7Mbps uploads and 5Mbps downloads, 106ms ping). U.K. and German servers both averaged around 5Mbps up and 4Mbps down, with pings exceeding 100ms. WireGuard consistently provided the best speeds across all tests.
Surprisingly, an Australian server delivered a download speed of 452Mbps, albeit with uploads dropping to 2Mbps and pings over 230ms. This stark contrast in international server performance highlighted some inconsistencies.
Customer Support
TorGuard's customer support interface.
Despite advertising 24/7 support, TorGuard’s support experience fell short of expectations. Live chat and phone support were unavailable. Attempts to use the chat function consistently resulted in messages directing us to wait, open a ticket, or email for assistance. Despite sending an email and persistent attempts with the chat, no response was received. This was the most disappointing support experience we’ve encountered in software reviews.
Privacy and Security
TorGuard utilizes industry-standard AES-256 and ChaCha encryption, safeguarding user data from unauthorized access. The service is ad-free, and their privacy policy states that no information is shared with third parties unless legally required.
While based in the U.S., a member of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance, TorGuard claims a no-log policy. However, this claim lacks independent audit verification.
TorGuard’s server security appears robust. A minor incident involving a single server breach in 2017 occurred, but no customer data was compromised.
Conclusion: Is TorGuard the Right VPN for You?
Despite its name, TorGuard has no affiliation with the Tor network. The brand initially focused on protecting user privacy during torrenting activities. However, following a lawsuit, TorGuard no longer permits torrenting within the U.S.
Despite the torrenting restrictions, inconsistent international server speeds, and subpar customer support, TorGuard offers fast streaming on local servers, effectively masks user locations, and provides stealth servers for enhanced privacy. It remains one of the most affordable VPN options available.
While we generally recommend prioritizing VPNs with a strong balance of performance, features, service, and price, TorGuard is a viable option for users on a tight budget. Be sure to compare current VPN deals to potentially find a better balance of features and affordability.
