Why You Can Trust TechRadar
We dedicate extensive hours to thoroughly evaluate each product or service we review, ensuring that you can confidently choose the best options available. Learn more about our testing methodology.
Overview of Orchid VPN
Orchid VPN is described as a “crypto-driven VPN service and sophisticated network security solution” that allows users to access a variety of VPN providers through a single application. It enables users to create multiple “hops,” with each hop representing a unique VPN connection. However, to utilize this service, you must first obtain Orchid’s OXT token.
Pricing Structure
Unlike typical VPN providers, Orchid VPN does not adhere to standard pricing models that include subscription plans. Instead, users pay based on the amount of bandwidth they require. You can acquire the OXT token from various cryptocurrency exchanges, such as Coinmama and Kraken, which you then use to buy the desired VPN bandwidth. Alternatively, users have the option to purchase a pre-funded Orchid account using traditional currency, allowing access to Orchid credits. This feature aims to make the Orchid network more accessible to individuals who may not be well-versed in cryptocurrencies or prefer not to engage with them. Additionally, all Orchid accounts can be shared across an unlimited number of devices and users, potentially lowering costs if shared among multiple people. Currently, the average pricing for Orchid VPN is around $0.06 per GB. There are no subscription fees, credits do not expire, and three primary pricing tiers are available:
– Try out Orchid for $0.99, suitable for casual browsing and light usage.
– Average tier at $4.99, ideal for users needing short- to medium-term access.
– Heavy tier at $19.99, designed for bandwidth-intensive users and sharing, perfect for long-term use.
Although there is no free trial, the Try out Orchid plan may suffice for those looking to test the service.
Competitors
While Orchid VPN’s blockchain-based approach offers enhanced privacy compared to conventional VPNs, many users may prefer the faster speeds, feature-rich applications, and installation support provided by established services like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, and CyberGhost. These competitors often provide opportunities to test their services without charge, through free trials or money-back guarantees.
Streaming Capabilities
Orchid VPN grants access to popular streaming platforms, including Netflix and Hulu. However, your ability to view content varies based on the account type you select, the amount you pay, and how many users are simultaneously utilizing the service. For example, our speed tests on the most affordable Orchid plan revealed that it was insufficient for streaming activities, but we anticipate that higher-tier plans would deliver improved performance.
Company Background
The entity behind Orchid VPN is Orchid Labs, headquartered in San Francisco, California. Due to its model, which incorporates multiple VPN providers, the exact number of server locations is indeterminate. Nonetheless, during our testing, we consistently connected to a server based in the United States.
Privacy and Encryption Features
Orchid employs a proprietary VPN protocol that reportedly shares similarities with OpenVPN and WireGuard. Users can also integrate their own OpenVPN and WireGuard configurations within the app. This protocol operates over WebRTC. Thanks to the decentralized structure of the platform, your online activities remain anonymous, ensuring your privacy is upheld. The company asserts that all traffic is encrypted through at least two layers, and when combined with the multi-hop feature, it provides a substantial level of anonymity.
Customer Support
While the Windows application is still in development, Orchid VPN currently offers user-friendly applications for Mac, iOS, and Android. Unfortunately, support for additional platforms is lacking at this moment. As of now, the Android app has received ratings from 440 users, averaging a score of 4.0 stars out of 5, with over 50,000 installations. The iOS/Mac app has a slightly higher average score of 4.8, albeit from only 12 ratings. The company is actively working on updates, with recent improvements made just a week before this review. For assistance, the website serves as a valuable resource, featuring a blog, podcast, whitepaper, and FAQ section. Users can also find help directly within the applications. For more immediate support, the team can be contacted via various social media platforms, messaging services, or through email.
Performance and User Experience
Connecting to the Orchid VPN via the Android app is straightforward; users simply tap the “Connect” button and wait a few seconds to establish a connection. However, our speed tests revealed a download speed of only 34.75Mbps, and the app automatically connected us to a server in the US without allowing us to choose a location. Although these results were an improvement from our previous test of 2.58Mbps, the speeds still fall short for activities like HD streaming. However, there is potential for better performance with higher payment tiers or improved internet connections.
Conclusion
Orchid VPN offers a higher level of privacy compared to traditional VPN services and leading industry competitors. However, it lags in terms of download speeds, platform compatibility, and some advanced features. Nonetheless, it competes well with top VPNs in terms of the number of simultaneous connections, user-friendliness, and access to geo-restricted content—assuming users can achieve download speeds that exceed those recorded in our tests. Notably, you don’t need to be a cryptocurrency expert to utilize the service effectively.
