Thundernews Review
Last Updated: Sep 17, 2025
| Rating |  |
| Price | $8.99 / Month |
| Retention | 6330 Days |
| Free Trial | None |
| Features | SSL Encryption Included |
| VPN Add-on Available | |
| Live Chat Assistance |
Thundernews has been a player in the Usenet landscape for over a decade, providing a range of service options that cater to both casual users and more dedicated downloaders. With servers strategically located in the United States and Europe, this provider aims to deliver competitive pricing alongside robust performance.
Quick Facts
- Subscription Options: Unlimited and metered plans available, alongside various block access choices
- Diverse Selection of Block Plans
- Metered Access Available
- SSL Encryption for Enhanced Security
- Live Chat Support for Immediate Assistance
- 6330 Days of Binary Retention
- Complimentary Newsreader Software Included
Binary Retention
As of the latest assessment, Thundernews boasts 6330 days of binary retention, positioning it favorably against many competitors in the market.
Pricing
Thundernews offers flexibility with its subscription models, allowing users to select between unlimited plans and metered access options, including block access. Notably, the unlimited plans come with an optional VPN add-on for added security. For those seeking more economical choices, there are block access plans available that do not include SSL, making them slightly more affordable than their premium counterparts. It is highly advisable to utilize Usenet through an SSL port to safeguard your privacy effectively.
Premium Plans with SSL Servers
| Name | Price | Download Limits | Connections | SSL |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unlimited | $8.99/month | None | 50 | Yes |
| Unlimited + VPN | $12.99/month | None | 50 | Yes |
| 30 GB/mo. | $4.99 | 30GB | 50 | Yes |
| 60 GB/mo. | $5.99 | 60 GB | 50 | Yes |
| 100 GB/mo. | $7.99 | 100 GB | 50 | Yes |
| 250 GB/mo. | $9.99 | 250 GB | 50 | Yes |
Block Plans (SSL and Non-SSL)
| Name | Price | Download Limits | Connections | SSL |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25 GB Block | $3.99 | 25 GB | 50 | Yes |
| 25 GB Block | $2.99 | 25 GB | 10 | No |
| 50 GB Block | $6.99 | 50 GB | 50 | Yes |
| 50 GB Block | $5.99 | 50 GB | 10 | No |
| 100 GB Block | $10.99 | 100 GB | 50 | Yes |
| 100 GB Block | $9.99 | 100 GB | 10 | No |
| 200 GB Block | $19.99 | 25 GB | 50 | Yes |
| 200 GB Block | $18.99 | 200 GB | 10 | No |
| 500 GB Block | $38.99 | 25 GB | 50 | Yes |
| 500 GB Block | $36.99 | 500 GB | 10 | No |
| 1000 GB Block | £41.01 | 1000 GB | 50 | No |
Free Trial Information
Currently, Thundernews does not provide a free trial. However, for those interested in sampling the service at a low cost, opting for one of the budget-friendly block plans can be an excellent alternative.
Special Offers / Coupons
Thundernews is presently running a promotion that provides a discount for the first three months on the Unlimited + VPN plan. During this promotional period, the monthly fee is reduced to $10.49, after which it will revert to the standard rate of $12.99.
Speed Test
In terms of speed performance, Thundernews excels. With both US and EU servers, users across these regions can expect to achieve optimal speeds, effectively utilizing their broadband capabilities to the fullest.
Connections
All plans, except for the non-SSL block access options, offer up to 50 simultaneous connections. The most affordable block access plans allow for just 10 connections. Every other plan ensures an SSL connection, which we strongly recommend for enhanced security.
News Servers / Ports / Configuration
Standard (Non-SSL) Server Addresses:
- news.thundernews.com with NNTP ports: 119, 23, 25, 80, 3128, 7000, 8000, or 9000
Premium (SSL) Server Addresses
- us.thundernews.com with NNTP ports: 119, 23, 443, 3128, 7000, 8000, 8080, or 9000
- eu.thundernews.com with NNTP ports: 119, 23, 443, 3128, 7000, 8000, 8080, or 9000
- secure.us.thundernews.com with SSL ports: 563, 80, or 81
- secure.eu.thundernews.com with SSL ports: 563, 80, or 81
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is SSL necessary for using Thundernews?
A: While Thundernews does offer budget-friendly block access options without SSL encryption, these may not be suitable for users concerned about potential traffic throttling or ISP surveillance. For the majority of users, we advocate for selecting a plan—whether block or subscription—that includes SSL for optimal privacy protection.
Q: Can I use Thundernews with downloading applications like SANnzbd or Sonarr?
A: Absolutely. Thundernews provides its own newsreader software, but users are free to utilize their preferred applications as well.
Q: How does Usenet compare to bittorrent in terms of safety?
A: Usenet generally offers superior privacy features for downloads, making it a safer alternative to torrenting, especially if you opt for a VPN. Thundernews provides VPN options, allowing users to enjoy enhanced security while downloading.
Q: Is Usenet faster than bittorrent?
A: Most users report being able to fully utilize their broadband speeds when downloading from Usenet, often experiencing faster speeds than with torrenting.
Q: What is the concept of Block Access?
A: Block access allows users to purchase a specified amount of data instead of committing to a subscription with a time limit. This model means you pay only for what you download, making it an attractive choice for infrequent users. We recommend opting for premium block access from Thundernews due to its SSL encryption.
Q: Does my block access have an expiration date?
A: No, once you purchase block access, it remains available for your use indefinitely.
Support
Thundernews features a live chat support option, which is particularly beneficial for newcomers to Usenet who may require assistance with setup and usage. Additionally, the provider’s website contains a wealth of information that can help users navigate the setup process effectively.
Contact Information
ThunderNews.com
719-D E. Greenville St. #155
Anderson, SC 29621
USA
Phone: 888-418-8545 for billing inquiries
Fax: 888-418-2878
For the best support experience, Thundernews recommends utilizing their support contact form.
Security / Company Privacy Policy
Thundernews maintains a strong privacy policy, asserting that they do not share or sell user information to third parties and do not monitor usage patterns. They commit to not disclosing user information to any official entity unless compelled by a court order or a legitimate cause under the DMCA.
Payment Options
Thundernews accepts major credit cards, PayPal, and WorldPay. For users experiencing issues with credit card transactions, it is advisable to utilize either WorldPay or PayPal for processing.
Our Opinion
Thundernews presents itself as a solid option in the Usenet service landscape. With competitive pricing and ample connections available for users, it offers flexibility through both block and subscription access. While it may not be the top contender in the Usenet market, the inclusion of a VPN add-on is a significant advantage. When comparing the bundled cost of Usenet and VPN services from Thundernews to purchasing them separately, the savings become evident. If you are seeking either block or unlimited access and require a VPN, Thundernews is certainly worth considering.
