Atlas VPN vs ClearVPN
This comparison pits a current VPN against a historically popular but defunct competitor. Atlas VPN permanently discontinued its service in April 2024. ClearVPN is an active, affordable option developed by MacPaw. The choice is fundamentally about operational availability, not feature parity.
Service Permanently Discontinued and Unavailable
We recognize that Atlas VPN previously offered competitive pricing and employed highly responsive customer support staff. However, the company has officially confirmed the permanent discontinuation of its VPN service as of April 2024. Overall, you cannot purchase or use this product now, making it effectively unavailable for any modern security needs.
Pros
- Customer support staff were consistently professional, swift, and competent (e.g., Monica, Webster, Emily).
- Historically offered very competitive and low-cost multi-year special offers.
- Proactive technical support sometimes issued quick, no-question refunds when streaming failed to work.
- Support staff were helpful and clearly explained complex issues to non-technical users.
Cons
- The VPN service was permanently discontinued in April 2024.
- Users reported frequent connection failures and highly unreliable performance.
- The essential Kill Switch security feature was reported as non-functional by some customers.
- Had significant issues reliably connecting to major streaming platforms (e.g., UK's ITVX, Channel 5).
Simple security hindered by operational friction.
We found ClearVPN delivers robust security features, like AES-256 encryption and a strict No-Logs policy, all wrapped in a sleek, simple interface. However, user feedback indicates high friction concerning connection reliability and inconsistent billing practices, particularly post-free trial. Overall, we recommend ClearVPN for its low cost and ease of use, but users should be prepared for potential technical hurdles and should closely monitor their subscription status.
Pros
- Extremely competitive annual pricing (effective $3.75 per month).
- Simple, modern user interface (UI) and easy installation process.
- Backed by a strict No-Logs policy and AES-256 encryption.
- Allows connectivity for up to six devices per account.
Cons
- Users report highly inconsistent connection reliability.
- Trial cancellation process is problematic; users report unauthorized charges.
- The 'shortcuts' connection method is often confusing and frustrating.
- Difficulty managing or updating subscriptions via the website.
AboutAtlas VPN
Atlas VPN has officially confirmed that its service is permanently unavailable. The company discontinued its VPN service in April 2024. 💡 This means that Atlas VPN is no longer accessible to potential new users or existing customers. They also thanked their loyal customers for all their support over the years.
AboutClearVPN
ClearVPN is an incredibly simple yet powerful VPN service. It’s the perfect choice for users who want to expand their digital horizons and achieve top-level protection without complexity. This app hides powerful technology behind a single button for a truly effortless experience. The eye-pleasing interface is simple and elegant, making your journey pleasant and smooth. You can also connect up to six devices per account. 💡
Highlights
Feature Comparison
Features Overview
We highlight the main differences and pick a winner for each feature.
Operational Availability
Atlas VPN is permanently shut down; ClearVPN is an actively supported product.
Atlas VPN officially ceased all operations in April 2024. It is entirely inaccessible to potential new or existing users. You cannot access Atlas VPN or rely on it for security today. ClearVPN is active and running, developed by the recognized company MacPaw. The service is fully supported and is continually available for new subscriptions. Atlas VPN fails the most basic requirement of being an active, functioning security tool. ClearVPN provides immediate and current protection for users. If you search for a VPN today, Atlas VPN is not an option you can choose or purchase.
Current Security
ClearVPN provides high-level active security; Atlas VPN provides zero protection.
Atlas VPN offers no current digital security protection whatsoever since it shut down. Relying on Atlas VPN leaves your data completely exposed and vulnerable. ClearVPN enforces a strict No-Logs policy and uses high-level encryption for privacy. It actively selects the best protocol for your needs, ensuring robust security. The fundamental trade-off is zero protection versus proactive, active security measures. ClearVPN is actively protecting users across 45+ countries right now, fulfilling the core VPN requirement.
Pricing and Trials
ClearVPN offers affordable monthly plans; Atlas VPN has no current pricing or plans.
Atlas VPN has no current subscription tiers, pricing schedules, or billing options available. You cannot purchase the service from them. ClearVPN starts at an effective $3.75/month when billed annually ($44.99 total). Monthly is $9.99. Atlas VPN previously offered great prices, but ClearVPN offers the only viable active options today. ClearVPN also offers a 3-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing risk-free testing.
Ease of Connection
ClearVPN features one-tap simplicity; Atlas VPN is non-functional.
Atlas VPN's historical interface and connection methodology are now moot and unavailable. You cannot connect to their service. ClearVPN is designed for simplicity, centered on a powerful, single-tap connection button. The app handles all complex configuration automatically. ClearVPN makes getting connected seamless, while Atlas VPN requires users to find an entirely new VPN. ClearVPN targets beginners who need security without configuration headaches or complicated setup routines.
Multi-Device Support
ClearVPN supports 6 devices; Atlas VPN supports none.
Atlas VPN cannot support multi-device use because the underlying service is permanently offline. No devices can connect. ClearVPN allows connectivity for up to six devices per account under a single subscription. This covers laptops, phones, and tablets easily. This makes ClearVPN ideal for multi-device households or individuals with many personal electronics. Atlas VPN offers no modern multi-device coverage. One ClearVPN subscription can protect an entire family’s worth of digital activity instantly.
User Reviews & Reliability
ClearVPN ratings are higher; Atlas VPN suffered severe historical reliability issues.
Atlas VPN reviews highlighted frequent connection difficulties and non-functional security features like the Kill Switch. Reliability was a major concern. ClearVPN users praise its simple interface and affordability, but reliability is also inconsistent post-purchase. Atlas VPN's reliability cratered pre-shutdown, while ClearVPN's issues often relate to charging/cancellation friction. ClearVPN's rating of 3.8 reflects user satisfaction with the product, despite operational friction in the billing department.
Our Verdict
If you are trying to choose between these two, the answer is dramatically simple. Atlas VPN is permanently unavailable; it shut down in April 2024. Therefore, Atlas VPN should not be considered for any current security needs. Atlas VPN's historic superpower was its highly praised, proactive customer support staff. However, that team is no longer available to assist users. The service was constantly plagued by unreliability and connection failures before it closed. ClearVPN’s superpower is making security effortless with its elegant, one-tap design. It ensures robust protection with a strict No-Logs policy across 45+ countries. ClearVPN also protects up to six devices with a very competitive annual price point. The deciding factor is current operational status and availability. Atlas VPN is a non-entity, leaving ClearVPN as the only viable selection. ClearVPN is actively working, affordable, and easy for beginners. Choose ClearVPN if you need instant, multi-device security for less than $4 per month. Bypass Atlas VPN entirely and focus on securing your digital life today with an active provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Atlas VPN still a viable option compared to ClearVPN?
No, Atlas VPN is permanently discontinued and has been shut down since April 2024. ClearVPN is fully active and is the only viable option in this comparison. You cannot purchase or use the Atlas VPN service today.
Can I get a refund if I try to sign up for Atlas VPN now?
You cannot sign up for Atlas VPN as the service is defunct. Since the product is unavailable, there is no current refund policy to inquire about. ClearVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee on all active subscriptions.
Which VPN is better for streaming, Atlas VPN or ClearVPN?
ClearVPN is better for streaming as it offers unlimited streaming and optimized servers across 45+ countries. Atlas VPN was historically unreliable for streaming and is now completely unavailable. Choose ClearVPN for geo-unblocking content.
Does ClearVPN cost more than Atlas VPN?
ClearVPN’s annual price is $3.75 per month, which is highly competitive. Atlas VPN has no current price, but it was historically known for very low-cost offers. We recommend ClearVPN for its low, known price and active service.
How many devices can ClearVPN protect compared to Atlas VPN?
ClearVPN allows you to connect up to six devices per premium account simultaneously. Atlas VPN is permanently shut down, meaning it offers protection for zero devices currently. ClearVPN provides coverage across your entire digital hardware collection.
Does ClearVPN have a strict No-Logs policy like Atlas VPN?
ClearVPN enforces a strict No-Logs policy; your data is not tracked or stored. Atlas VPN’s historical logging policy is irrelevant since the product is shut down. ClearVPN actively guarantees your privacy and anonymity.
Ready to Choose?
Both tools have their strengths. Choose based on your specific needs.