How to Cancel a Proton VPN Subscription in 2024
Proton VPN provides strong security and privacy protection, but some of its long-distance connections are a bit slow. The good news is that Proton VPN has a 30-day money-back guarantee. As long as you cancel your subscription via live chat within this period, you’ll be given a full refund.
To make sure you’ll definitely get your money back, I tested Proton VPN’s cancellation and refund process for myself. I’ve also compared Proton VPN with the other top VPNs on the market to find stronger alternatives for you to try next.
My top alternative is ExpressVPN. It’s significantly faster than Proton VPN across its entire server network while offering the same high level of security and privacy. You can try ExpressVPN risk-free because it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, like Proton VPN. Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.
Jump to see more Proton VPN alternatives
Quick Guide: How to Cancel Proton VPN in 3 Easy Steps
- Log into your Proton VPN account. Click the burger menu on the main Proton VPN website and tap Sign in.
- Ask for a refund. Click the chat icon and request a refund.
- Confirm your refund. Your money will be returned within 10 days.
Short on Time? Here Are the Best Proton VPN Alternatives in 2024
- Editor's ChoiceExpressVPN
The fastest speeds we’ve ever tested and automatic obfuscation on every server.70% of our readers choose ExpressVPN - CyberGhost
Specialty servers for streaming, downloading, and gaming in a user-friendly app. - Private Internet Access
Adjust encryption levels to balance speeds and security and tons more settings.
Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
The Ultimate Guide: How To Cancel Proton VPN and Get a Refund
The following guides can all be used to cancel Proton VPN Plus and Proton Unlimited subscriptions. The length of the subscription does not matter in regards to the money-back guarantee — you can get a full refund on 1-month, 12-month, and 24-month plans.
The method you used to sign up for Proton VPN can affect how you cancel your account and get a refund. For example, if you signed up on iOS, you will need to cancel via an iOS device. Follow the most relevant guide below to request your refund in minutes.
Canceling Proton VPN via the Website
If you signed up for Proton VPN via the official website, the quickest and easiest way to cancel your subscription is via live chat. Alternatively, you can submit a contact form or email support to make your request, but make sure you do this with plenty of time before your refund period is over. Here’s how the process with live chat goes:
- Go to the website and log in. Visit Proton VPN’s main website and use the login details you subscribed with to access your account.
- Click the account widget and scroll to Chat with us. Alternatively, click the chat icon in the bottom right.
- Request a refund. Wait a few seconds to connect to an agent, then request your refund. Make sure to get confirmation that your refund has been initiated before leaving the chat.
- Check your bank account. You should receive your refund within 10 days.
Canceling Proton VPN on iOS and macOS (Apple App Store)
If you signed up for Proton VPN using an iOS or macOS device, the guides below will show you how to cancel and pursue a refund. It’s a little more time-consuming to request a refund for Proton VPN via iOS or macOS, as the refund itself is handled by Apple. Before uninstalling the app, follow the relevant guide to your device to cancel your Proton VPN subscription:
Canceling Proton VPN on iOS
- Go to Settings on your iOS device.
- Click your Apple ID profile at the top.
- Click Subscriptions.
- Find Proton VPN among the subscriptions and tap it.
- Click Cancel Subscriptions.
Canceling Proton VPN on macOS
- Go to the App Store.
- Tap on the registered account name in the bottom left.
- On the listed apps, find Proton VPN and click the Edit option.
- Choose Cancel Subscriptions and finish the process.
Regardless of the Apple device you used, requesting a refund is the same process. Here’s what you need to do next:
- Go to the Report a Problem page on the Apple website.
- Provide your Apple username and password.
- Click I would like to…, and scroll to Request a refund.
- In the Tell us more… section, say you want a refund from Proton VPN and explain why.
- Submit your request and keep an eye out for the response in your Apple ID email inbox.
Canceling Proton VPN on Android (Google Play Store)
It’s a similar situation for Android users. If you subscribed to Proton VPN through the Play Store, you’ll need to file your refund request with Google. Before uninstalling Proton VPN, complete the following steps to get the ball rolling:
- Open the Google Play app.
- Tap your profile picture to access the menu.
- Tap the Payments and Subscriptions section and choose Subscriptions.
- Select Proton VPN, then Manage, followed by Cancel Subscription.
- Explain why you’re canceling the service.
- Next, click Account and then Purchase History.
- Find and click Proton VPN, followed by Request a Refund. Explain why you want to be reimbursed.
- Wait for a response. Most refund decisions are made within 1 business day, but it can take up to 4 on rare occasions.
Best Proton VPN Alternatives in 2024
The table below offers an at-a-glance comparison of the best Proton VPN alternatives. You can compare prices and money-back guarantee periods. VPNs with large server networks are ideal to securely access content from anywhere. It’s also helpful to look for a VPN offering multiple simultaneous device connections if you have lots of gadgets or a large household.
1. ExpressVPN — The Fastest Speeds We’ve Tested Across its Entire Network
Tested November 2024 Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
ExpressVPN is much faster than Proton VPN according to our tests. Its proprietary Lightway protocol is significantly more lightweight than most, making connections much faster than Proton VPN for streaming and torrenting. Our videos didn’t buffer when streaming in UHD, and even distant servers delivered impressive speeds during our ExpressVPN tests.
Automatic obfuscation on every server makes your VPN connection look like regular internet traffic. That means you don’t have to adjust any settings to bypass tough network restrictions at work, college, or on public WiFi hotspots. It’s also much faster than the obfuscation provided by Proton VPN’s sluggish Stealth protocol.
The plans are a bit pricey. However, ExpressVPN frequently offers generous discounts — I got 82% off my plan for a final price of just $4.99/month. ExpressVPN also offers a reliable 30-day money-back guarantee if you aren't a fan of the service. I tried it for testing purposes and was fully reimbursed in just a few days.
2. CyberGhost — Optimized Servers For Streaming, Torrenting, and Gaming
CyberGhost offers easy-to-find dedicated servers for streaming, torrenting, and gaming. When testing CyberGhost’s streaming-optimized servers, we safely accessed Disney+ and YouTube TV in HD. Unlike Proton VPN, it even worked with DAZN US. Its speeds are overall pretty fast, but they are close in comparison to Proton VPN, with greater slowdowns when it comes to long-distance connections.
Its apps are user-friendly and offer an intuitive Smart Rules feature, which lets you customize the VPN’s automation rules. The monthly plan is expensive (and offers a short 14-day money-back guarantee). However, the long-term plans are more affordable — starting at $2.03/month. Plus, they come with an extended money-back guarantee that lets you try CyberGhost for 45 days for free.
3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Customizable Settings Let You Balance Speed and Security
PIA stands out for its high level of customization, surpassing even Proton VPN in this regard. For instance, users have the flexibility to adjust the encryption level, choosing between AES 128-bit for faster performance or AES 256-bit for enhanced security, albeit at the cost of speed.
The only issue is PIA’s overall customizability can be daunting to some. However, I found PIA is pre-configured for a good mix of security and speed — so you don't need to change any settings unless you want to. It’s also a budget-friendly option, with prices as low as $2.03/month. Plus, you can try PIA for free as it has a reliable 30-day money-back guarantee.
Our Methodology for Testing VPN Alternatives to Proton VPN
We followed a strict set of criteria when choosing alternative services to Proton VPN. These services all offer fast speeds, even on long-distance servers, making them good alternatives for streaming, gaming, and torrenting. They each require differing levels of technical proficiency. We also made sure each VPN has standout features that make them preferable to Proton VPN.
Visit our testing methodology page for all the details on our testing philosophy. Here, you’ll find a full breakdown of the methods we use to bring you the latest cybersecurity news.
Proton VPN Refund Terms and Conditions
If you cancel your account within the 30-day period, you're eligible for a full refund. This is an improvement to its previous policy, under which you would only receive a prorated refund for the unused portion of your subscription. That said, you can downgrade your account (from Unlimited to Plus) at any time and will be given account credits for the prorated amount in this case.
The money-back guarantee is available for any Plus and Unlimited plan that’s purchased directly through Proton's official channels, such as its website or apps. If the subscription was purchased through a third-party provider, a refund must be requested from that provider, as Proton VPN's policy does not apply.
Keep in mind that refunds are not available if you pay via cash or bank transfer. Aside from this, Proton VPN issues refunds in the currency and payment method you used to subscribe.
FAQs on Canceling Proton VPN
Can I cancel Proton VPN at any time?
No, you only get a refund within the first 30 days. Due to this, I always recommend ensuring you cancel within the money-back guarantee period to ensure you get a refund. With 30 days to test the service, you should be able to tell if it’s a good fit for you or not.
That said, Proton’s Terms of Service do mention that if you request a refund after this period, your eligibility to receive a refund is at the sole discretion of the provider. Still, the chances of this are likely very rare and due to unusual circumstances, so I wouldn’t count on it.
How do I delete my Proton VPN account?
You can delete your Proton VPN account via the website. Instead of permanently deleting your account, you can also downgrade to a free Proton VPN account and maintain access to some free features. If you're determined to delete your account, however, sign in on the Proton VPN website and click on your username. Select Account and scroll down to the Delete Account section. Follow the prompts and confirm your account deletion.
How long does it take to get a Proton VPN refund?
Proton VPN’s refunds can be approved instantly via live chat, but it may take up to 10 days for the funds to appear in your account, depending on your payment method. However, refunds via Google Play and App Store are not guaranteed, so it’s advisable to subscribe via the Proton VPN website.
How do I stop auto-renewal with Proton VPN?
To stop auto-renewal, log in to your account and click Subscription. Scroll down to Downgrade Account and click Continue. Click Downgrade account on the popup window to confirm. Your subscription will then end after your current term. It’s advisable to choose an alternative VPN to keep your browsing private.
What can I do with my Proton VPN account credits?
You can use account credits in exchange for subscriptions to any Proton plan. Account credits are only given for the unused portion of your Unlimited plan if you downgrade to Plus before the end of your subscription period. These credits must be used within 24 months or they will expire.
Will I keep my Proton Mail account after canceling Proton VPN?
Yes, you can still use your Proton Mail account after canceling Proton VPN. If you have two separate subscriptions, canceling your Proton VPN plan will not affect your Proton Mail account. However, if you purchased the Proton Unlimited subscription, which bundles Proton VPN, Proton Mail, Proton Calendar, and Proton Drive together, canceling this plan will reduce all these services to their free versions.
This could mean you’d lose needed email storage or addresses with Proton Mail in the downgrade. If you have a Proton Unlimited plan and you’d like to cancel Proton VPN but retain access to premium features in Proton Mail or other services, it’s advised to explain this to support before starting the cancellation process.
To summarize, these are the best Proton VPN alternatives with money-back guarantees...
Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
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