When you buy through affiliate links in our content, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn A free VPN is a very good tool for individuals who wish to enhance their online safety without a financial commitment. These services are ideal for basic protection, occasional browsing, or accessing geo-blocked content.
However, finding the best free VPN might be challenging. Free services often come with reduced data allowances, slower connection speeds, and a limited number of server options. In some cases, free VPNs might even compromise user privacy by logging activity, diminishing the initial privacy benefits.
Therefore, I’ve curated a list of the best free VPNs and best free trial VPNs, ensuring they prioritize user privacy and include essential security measures.
The Best Free VPNs Tested By Our Experts
ExpressVPN – Secure Premium VPN With a Reliable Money-Back Guarantee
- Show Full Guide
Best Free and Free Trial VPN at a Glance
- Proton VPN – Best free VPN overall
- PrivadoVPN – Reliable free VPN with the most server locations
- NordVPN – Fast VPN with a 30-day money-back guarantee
- Surfshark – Cheap VPN with a 7-day free trial for Android devices
- ExpressVPN – Secure premium VPN with a reliable money-back guarantee
The Best Free VPNs Reviewed
We’ve compiled the following free VPNs after assessing their security features, data caps, speed retention, and server locations.
Proton VPN – Best Free VPN Overall
| Simultaneous Connections | 1 |
|---|---|
| Key Features | Unlimited data, fast speed, verified no-logs policy, No ads |
| Jurisdiction | Switzerland |
| Server Fleet | Servers in 5 countries |
Why We Picked It
Proton VPN is the best free VPN, renowned for delivering a speedy and privacy-oriented service with a strict no-logs policy and a generous unlimited data plan.
Privacy and Security
Proton VPN is based in Switzerland and benefits from fortified Swiss data protection laws. It also implements an independently audited no-logs policy, ensuring no user private data is collected and stored. And its privacy and security measures extend to the free plan.
It has a kill switch and a protocol called Stealth that keeps your VPN connection undetectable to bypass VPN blocks. Additional protocols include WireGuard UDP/TCP and OpenVPN UDP/TCP, and you get IPv6 and DNS leak protection.
Lastly, Proton uses powerful encryption standards like AES-256 and ChaCha20 to secure its connections.
Features
Proton’s free VPN plan includes everything from unlimited data and rapid speeds to no logs and zero ads, making it feel like you’re using a paid VPN solution.
You can also set up Proton VPN to start on boot, auto-connect upon app start, receive early access updates, and use alternative routing to bypass firewalls.
Streaming and Unblocking
Proton VPN’s free plan has multiple servers limited to five locations: the USA, Japan, the Netherlands, Romania, and Poland. Sadly, you can’t manually select a specific country.
It successfully unblocks Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max, and Peacock’s streaming libraries in the five countries mentioned above.
Performance
Proton VPN free plan has pretty good speed retention, between 60% and 83% of the original internet speed. The connection is stable and quick enough to stream media in full HD without lag.
Who It’s Best For
Proton VPN is ideal for users who want an exceptionally secure and blazing VPN without spending money. This free VPN is superb for streaming enthusiasts, but they’ll have to make do with the limited server locations.
Pros
- Swiss data protection laws
- No data cap
- High speed retention
- Strong geo-unblocking
- Advanced encryption and kill switch
Cons
- Only five locations
- Can’t select the location manually
PrivadoVPN – Reliable Free VPN With the Most Server Locations
| Simultaneous Connections | 1 |
|---|---|
| Key Features | Numerous servers, multiple protocols, kill switch, split tunneling |
| Jurisdiction | Switzerland |
| Server Fleet | Servers in 10 countries |
Why We Picked It
PrivadoVPN is a feature-rich free VPN provider with the largest free server fleet, perfect for streaming or accessing offshore content.
Privacy and Security
Located in privacy-friendly Switzerland, PrivadoVPN is highly privacy-oriented. Its reliable no-logs policy ensures that the provider collects and stores no data on user personal data or internet activities.
PrivadoVPN uses strong 256-bit AES encryption, and protocols include IKEv2, WireGuard, and OpenVPN (UDP/TCP). There’s also an option to add obfuscation to OpenVPN to bypass network traffic sensors.
Features
PrivadoVPN is among the most customizable VPNs on this list. Although there’s a 10 GB monthly data cap and no browser extension, the free plan’s brimming with convenient features, some of which no other free provider offers.
You get split tunneling and can exclude or include selected apps to use the VPN. Along with a regular kill switch for safety, you get an app-specific kill switch.
The automatic location selector can select a location based on the shortest distance or the latency. You can also personalize the VPN to auto-start when your computer powers on or auto-connect to a preferred server upon launching the VPN.
Streaming and Unblocking
PrivadoVPN has the largest number of servers for a free plan. Its servers are distributed across ten countries: Argentina, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, India, Mexico, the Netherlands, the UK, and the USA.
It effectively unblocks Netflix, HBO Max, Prime Video, Paramount+, Hulu, Disney+, and Shudder in these countries.
Performance
PrivadoVPN has pretty good speed retention for a free VPN, with an average 490 Mbps speed on a 1 Gbps baseline. The connection is smooth and streams full HD content with zero lag.
Who It’s Best For
PrivadoVPN is perfect for users seeking a high degree of personalization in their free VPN app and many server locations for streaming or browsing.
Pros
- Servers in ten countries
- No-logs policy and multiple protocols
- System-wide and app-specific kill switch
- Split tunneling
Cons
- Monthly data cap
- No browser extension
Best VPNs With a Free Trial Reviewed
The top VPNs with money-back guarantees will let you test their premium plans while offering a money-back assurance. They’re a solid alternative to free plans with limitations, and we’ll discuss their features, performance, and more below.
NordVPN – Fast VPN With a 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee
| Simultaneous Connections | 10 |
|---|---|
| Key Features | Double VPN, obfuscated servers, extensive server distribution, malware protection |
| Jurisdiction | Panama |
| Server Fleet | 6,300+ servers in 111 countries |
Why We Picked It
NordVPN is among the fastest and most secure premium VPNs with a 30-day money-back guarantee to try the services risk-free.
Privacy and Security
NordVPN is headquartered in Panama, where no obligatory data retention law applies to VPN providers. Nord has a strict no-logs policy that’s been independently verified four times as of September 2024, with Deloitte Lithuania conducting the latest evaluation.
NordVPN uses AES 256-bit encryption and safe protocols (OpenVPN and NordLynx). For added safety, you get Threat Protection Pro, which includes malware protection and dark web monitoring to identify leaked personal details.
Features
NordVPN has advanced features like double VPN and obfuscated servers for greater security and more effective firewall bypassing. It has a reliable kill switch and a split tunneling feature for controlling which apps connect to the VPN.
Nord also has a private DNS feature to prevent DNS leaks and ensure maximum privacy. The most advanced plans include a password manager, an ad blocker, a malware scanner, and 1 TB of encrypted cloud storage for comprehensive online safety.
Streaming and Unblocking
NordVPN has 6,300+ servers in 111 countries, which allowed me to access country-specific libraries of the most popular streaming platforms, including Prime Video, Netflix, HBO Max, Peacock, and Disney+.
Performance
NordVPN’s impressive speed retention is between 90% and 95%+, depending on the protocol you use. I saw an average speed of 930 Mbps on my 1 Gbps baseline, which resulted in a stable connection, even when streaming, torrenting, or gaming.
Who It’s Best For
NordVPN is apt for advanced users and travelers who need a VPN free trial for a limited time to secure their online activities or access geo-specific content when traveling..
Pros
- High speed retention
- Expansive server distribution
- Double VPN
- Obfuscated servers
- Malware protection
Cons
- Basic starter plan
- Can’t trial without paying
Surfshark – Cheap VPN With a 7-Day Free Trial for Android Devices
| Simultaneous Connections | Unlimited |
|---|---|
| Key Features | Unlimited connections, dedicated IP, good speed, rotating IP |
| Jurisdiction | The Netherlands |
| Server Fleet | 3,200 servers in 100+ countries |
Why We Picked It
Surfshark is the only free-trial VPN provider on this list with unlimited user connections. Despite being lower priced than some competitors, it doesn’t skimp on network speeds or security.
Privacy and Security
Although Surfshark is based in the Netherlands, a part of the Nine Eyes Alliance, the country’s privacy-friendly laws don’t require VPN providers to retain user data. Plus, Surfshark has a no-logs policy that Deloitte independently verified in December 2022. Moreover, its Android app cleared a Mobile App Security Assessment from Google-approved third-party auditors, boosting reliability.
For tight security, Surfshark uses multiple protocols (OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard) and several encryption systems like AES-256-GCM, ChaCha20, and a 2048-bit version of the RSA encryption keys.
Features
Surfshark has many features similar to NordVPN – double VPN, obfuscated servers, split tunneling, and a kill switch.
Its rotating IP feature alters your IP address every few minutes for enhanced anonymity without disconnecting the VPN service or impacting the speed. There’s also an option for a dedicated IP add-on so you have an IP address unique to you to regularly bypass specific geo-blocks without getting flagged.
Surfshark lets you override your GPS location on Android devices so you can use apps that are only available in specific countries. The advanced plans offer antivirus protection, personal data security reports, and data removal from company databases.
Streaming and Unblocking
Surfshark has 3,200+ servers in 100 countries. Although the server distribution is good, the server count is much lower than NordVPN’s.
Nonetheless, I was able to enjoy Netflix US, UK, and even Japanese libraries, stream shows like Yellowstone, and explore Amazon Prime Video and HBO Max global libraries lag-free.
Performance
Surfshark consistently kept 950 Mbps on a 1 Gbps broadband speed, which I was very pleased with, as I didn’t notice any lags. Even when streaming in 4K.
Who It’s Best For
Surfshark is excellent for advanced users in large families or with many devices who need a highly secure and smooth VPN with a free mobile trial and money-back assurance. Plus, its very affordable prices often attract users to subscribe even after the free trial.
Pros
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Fast speeds
- Double VPN and rotating IP
- GPS override on Android
Cons
- Dedicated IP is an add-on
- Antivirus protection unavailable on basic plan
| Simultaneous Connections | 8 |
|---|---|
| Key Features | No-logs, post-quantum protection, dependable geo-unblocking |
| Jurisdiction | British Virgin Islands |
| Server Fleet | Thousands of servers in 105 countries |
Why We Picked It
ExpressVPN’s interface is very simple, making it remarkably easy to navigate for even first-time users. This money-back guarantee VPN is also helpful for bypassing geo-blocks worldwide.
Privacy and Security
ExpressVPN is located in the British Virgin Islands, which doesn’t have mandatory data retention laws for VPN providers. It’s also not a part of the Five/Nine/Fourteen Eyes Alliances.
ExpressVPN’s no-logs policy doesn’t retain any private user data, and renowned security firms (KPMG, PwC, and Cure53) have audited it. In addition, its RAM-based servers wipe out all the data on them with each reboot, occurring weekly.
For greater security, ExpressVPN uses protocols like Lightway, OpenVPN, and IKEv2, as well as AES-256 encryption and post-quantum protection for threats against quantum computing.
Features
ExpressVPN’s feature set is a bit lackluster compared to NordVPN and Surfshark, but it covers the essential bases. You get split tunneling, a kill switch, and private DNS for fortified security.
ExpressVPN works with popular platforms, including routers and consoles. You also get a password manager, ad blocker, and tracker blocker to bolster digital safety.
Streaming and Unblocking
ExpressVPN has thousands of servers in 105 countries, but it doesn’t officially mention the precise number anymore. Regardless, the choice is pretty satisfactory, especially since I managed to unblock geo-specific content on Hulu, Netflix, Paramount+, and Amazon Prime Video.
Performance
While most users note that ExpressVPN offers blazing speeds, I saw a drop of nearly 50% (leaving 560 Mbps on a 1 Gbps baseline), which resulted in slightly choppy Formula 1 streaming. However, for casual scrolling, the speed was more than satisfactory.
Who It’s Best For
ExpressVPN is best for first-time users who wish to try out a VPN before investing in one. Its 30-day money-back guarantee allows access to all the provider’s features.
Pros
- RAM-only servers and no-logs
- Based in a privacy-friendly country
- Simple to use
- Dependable geo-unblocking
Cons
- Limited features
- No unpaid free trial for PC
Best Free VPNs Compared
Here’s a quick comparison table to see how free and free trial VPNs compare to each other:
| Proton VPN | PrivadoVPN | NordVPN | Surfshark | ExpressVPN | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Free Server Fleet | Several servers in 5 countries | Multiple servers in 10 countries | 6,300+ servers in 111 countries | 3,200 servers in 100+ countries | 3,000+ in 105 countries |
| Monthly Data Cap | Unlimited | 10 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Simultaneous Connections | 1 | 1 | 10 | Unlimited | 8 |
| Ads With the Free Plan | No | No | No | No | No |
| Free trial | Free plan | Free plan | 7-day free-trial, 30-day money-back | 7-day free-trial, 30-day money-back | 7-day free-trial, 30-day money-back |
| Premium Price | $3.59/month | $1.99/month | $3.09/month | $2.19/month | $6.67/month |
How We Review and Test VPN Services
20 VPNS TESTED
25 DATA POINTS MEASURED
300+ HOURS TESTING
500+ USER REVIEWS READ
To provide our readers with accurate and well informed recommendations, we tested 20 leading VPN services to find the best in the market. Our methodology consists of the following criteria:
- Security Features: We made sure that the provider uses standard security features and a secure tunneling protocol.
- Privacy Policies: We looked for VPNs that come with a no-logs policy, and verify the extend to which user privacy is upheld.
- Speed: We run speed tests three times a day and draw an average of the result to see how much of the original broadband speed is retained.
- Compatibility: We ensure the VPN provider offers multiple simultaneous connections and is compatible with the most popular operating systems.
- Geo-unblocking: We test whether the VPN service can unlock different libraries (content available in different countries) on the most popular streaming platforms.
- Customer Experience: When researching products and services, we read real user experiences and test out their customer support channels ourselves.
- Price and Value for Money: We set out to recommend reasonably priced products that offer value for money.
How Does a Free VPN Work?
A free VPN securely tunnels your device’s internet traffic through one of its servers. It masks your IP address for anonymity and makes it seem like your data originates from the VPN server’s location, allowing you to access geo-restricted content.
A paid VPN works the same way but with fewer limitations and more security features. It has more servers and locations, unlimited data, faster speeds, improved customizability, and advanced security features. With premium VPNs, you receive more substantial privacy assurance that the provider will not log your user data.
Is There a 100% Free VPN?
There’s no 100% free VPN because all VPN providers with fully free tiers have premium tiers that are paid. VPN providers, like Proton VPN, often rely on funds from their premium tiers to support the free tier.
Free tiers have limitations like fewer server locations, data caps, limited support, and lower speeds. While some providers, like NordVPN and Surfshark, don’t have a free tier, they have a limited-time free trial or money-back guarantee for users to try their services.
Are Free VPNs Legal?
VPNs are legal in most countries worldwide, and that remains true for providers offering free services.
They are only banned in countries like North Korea, Belarus, Iraq, Oman, and Turkmenistan, though there are restrictions on use in China, Russia, Egypt, India, Iran, and Turkey. If you plan to use a VPN in one of these countries, security is of paramount importance, so we would not recommend using a free service.
Of course, illegal activity, such as sharing copyrighted material, remains illegal if you’re using a VPN. You should also be wary of using free services from less well-known VPN providers, which may compromise your privacy or even track your activity and sell the information.
Are Free VPNs Safe?
Free tiers of reputable VPN providers are a safe choice, but not all free VPNs are secure and may pose risks, like:
- Data Logging – Free VPN providers may retain your user data and sell it to third parties for a profit.
- Subpar Security – The lack of solid encryption measures and security features, like kill switches, negatively impacts online anonymity and privacy.
- Malware – Some low-quality free VPNs may contain malware that could infect your device.
How to Use a Free VPN?
Pick the best free VPN provider and download the app for your device
Head to the Proton VPN page and click Download Proton VPN.Launch the Proton VPN download file and run through the setup wizard.
Open Proton VPN once it’s installed.
Click Quick Connect to establish a VPN connection.
The VPN will auto-select a location for you (there is no option for manual selection).
Your VPN connection is now active.
Click Disconnect to end the connection, or click Change server to switch locations.
How to Choose the Best Free VPN?
Keep these factors in mind when selecting the best free VPN:
- Reputation – When evaluating a safe free VPN, prioritize known and trusted VPN providers over lesser-known services.
- Server Locations – Since free VPNs have limited server fleet, check how many locations the VPN has servers in and whether you can choose the location manually.
- Data Cap – Free VPNs usually have data caps that refresh monthly, but some, like Proton VPN, have unlimited data.
- Performance – All VPNs temper your speed, so make sure your chosen VPN is fast with no noticeable lagging.
- Compatibility – Ensure the free VPN is optimized for your device. Most VPNs work with Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android and have extensions for browsers like Chrome and Firefox.
- Ads – Some free VPNs display advertisements to generate revenue, negatively impacting usability. Proton VPN and PrivadoVPN are free VPNs with zero ads.
- Geo-unblocking – If you plan to access global content or streaming libraries, verify that your the VPN can bypass regional geo-blocks effectively.
- Security – Assess the free VPN provider’s encryption standards, tunneling protocols, and no-logs policy. Make sure crucial features, like a kill switch, are present too.
Conclusion – What’s the Best Free VPN?
Without breaking the bank, the best free VPN can make the internet much safer while erasing geographic boundaries for a more seamless global content experience. These VPNs offer security and anonymity features like server and protocol selection, encryption, IP masking, and geo-bypassing.
Proton VPN stands out on our list as one of the best free VPNs, with unlimited data, an ad-free interface, and a strict no-logs policy. But despite their convenient feature sets, the top free VPNs have limitations, like fewer server locations and customizability. In this case, you could try a premium VPN, like NordVPN, with a free trial or money-back guarantee.
