5 Best No-Log VPNs in 2024: Anonymous, Private & Proven

Although most VPNs claim they collect no information about their users, that is rarely the case. The truth is that a VPN must keep at least some of your data in order to maintain its service and allow you to make a subscription. This makes finding a truly no-logs VPN tricky.

That’s why I focused on VPN services that collect no information that can be tied back to you, such as your IP address or browsing history. During my time testing, I’ve only found a couple that truly stand by their no-logs claims. Plus, they offer other useful privacy features as an added bonus.

I tested 30+ VPNs, and ExpressVPN was my top no-logs VPN. It has a proven no-logs policy and has undergone more privacy and security audits than any other VPN in the industry. Best of all, it comes with a tried and tested 30-day money back guarantee, so you can try ExpressVPN completely risk-free. If it’s not right for you, you can get a full refund. 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.

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Short on Time? Here Are the Best No-Logs VPNs in 2024

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.

What Does a No-Log VPN Actually Mean?

A no-log VPN doesn’t keep information that can be used to identify you. This includes details about the websites you visit, the files you download, or your search history. The primary purpose of a no-log policy is to protect your privacy and enhance your anonymity by ensuring that there is no record of your online behavior that could be accessed or misused by third parties.

However, not all no-log policies are created equal. Some VPNs may still retain minimal data for operational purposes, such as session duration and the amount of data used. Still, this information is typically not linked to individual users and cannot be used to trace specific online activities​​.

It’s important to choose a VPN provider with a proven no-log policy, ideally verified through independent audits. Premium VPN providers undergo regular audits to confirm their no-log policy claims, offering users greater confidence in their privacy protection​.

Additionally, VPNs based outside of surveillance jurisdictions (like the 5/9/14-Eyes-Alliance countries) can offer better privacy guarantees. This makes them less likely to be compelled by government authorities to hand over user data​.

Best No-Logs VPNs — Full Analysis (Updated 2024)

1. ExpressVPN — Trustworthy No-Logs Policy With the Most Independent Audits

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Tested November 2024

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www.expressvpn.com

ExpressVPN doesn’t keep connection or activity logs, so important information like your IP address, browsing history, or DNS requests remains hidden. To prove this, it has undergone numerous security and privacy audits from reputable independent organizations, including PwC and Cure53. The second privacy policy audit was performed by KPMG in September 2022 and proved ExpressVPN stands behind its claims.

The list of ExpressVPN audits goes on to 2018, so it can't be captured in one screenshot

It uses TrustedServer technology to ensure none of your data is stored on its servers. Its server network is entirely RAM-based (volatile memory), so all your information is automatically wiped out every time you disconnect. In 2022, cybersecurity company Cure53 performed a source code audit on ExpressVPN’s TrustedServer technology, and no vulnerabilities were found.

ExpressVPN's no-logs policy was also proven true in 2017 when one of its servers was seized by Turkish authorities in an attempt to obtain information on a user. Investigators were unable to retrieve any useful data from the server as there was no information stored on it.

It’s a little more expensive than other VPNs, but ExpressVPN’s strong privacy makes it worth the price. Plus, it comes with a dependable 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free. I tested this by canceling my subscription via its live chat and got a full refund 2 days later without any questions. For added privacy, you can pay with cryptocurrency.

Useful Features

• Fast speeds. Nearby speeds (tested on 3 servers) produced an average of 112.7 Mbps, which is only a 4% speed drop from my base connection. I got the fastest speeds on its Lightway protocol. It’s open-source, meaning any vulnerabilities are quickly spotted and patched.
• Based in the British Virgin Islands. This is a privacy-friendly country with no data retention laws and outside the 14 Eyes Alliance.
• P2P support. ExpressVPN supports P2P sharing on all its servers, so you don’t have to search for any specialty servers to torrent safely.
• Bug bounty. ExpressVPN even has a bug bounty program to demonstrate its confidence in its technologies. It offers a $100,000 bonus to security researchers who can identify certain types of security vulnerabilities in its systems.

2. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Open-Source Software With a Court-Proven No-Logs Policy

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www.privateinternetaccess.com

Not only is its software open-source for anyone to scrutinize, but PIA clearly states in its privacy policy that it doesn’t collect sensitive information, like your IP address, location, or browsing history. This has been proven true several times. For instance, in 2016, the FBI requested data on one of its users, but since there was nothing stored, no useful information was found.

PIA is also one of the few VPNs that make their privacy policy clear and understandable

The same year, some of PIA’s servers were seized by Russian authorities, but nothing of use was found again. It also shut down its Russian servers due to the government passing a law that requires all providers to keep logs of Russian traffic for up to a year. In August 2022, an independent audit conducted by Deloitte also confirmed PIA doesn’t retain any data.

My only complaint about PIA is that it's based in the US, one of the founding members of the 14 Eyes. It is, however, reassuring that all of PIA’s servers are privately owned and RAM-only, which means all data is permanently deleted with each server reboot, so there isn’t too much information to share to begin with.

It also comes with a tried and tested 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try out PIA for free. If you don’t like it, getting a refund is quick and easy.

Useful Features

• Selection of self-owned servers. PIA’s network is made up of a combination of self-owned (colocated) and third-party servers. Self-owned servers cut out the middleman, so for added privacy protection, you can write its 24/7 live chat for a list of recommended colocated servers.
• Multi-hop connection. You can create a VPN + proxy connection with SOCKS5 proxy, which will add an extra layer of protection to your VPN connection.
• Customizable security. You can choose between AES 256-bit and AES 128-bit encryption. While a lower encryption standard is slightly less secure, it can give you better speeds for torrenting and streaming. There’s also an advanced kill switch option to block all internet traffic when the VPN is turned off.
• MACE. This is PIA’s built-in ad, malware, and tracker blocker that you can enable with 1 click. When I tested it, it blocked 86% of ads.

3. CyberGhost — No-Logs VPN That Offers Quarterly Transparency Reports

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www.cyberghostvpn.com

CyberGhost was the first VPN to ever launch a transparency report showing the number of data requests received from legal authorities and copyright holders. Today, it continues to publish these reports on its site quarterly. This shows that CyberGhost is committed to upholding its no-logs policy, assuring that your data isn't stored or shared.

CyberGhost has been open about its requests for over a decade

After analyzing CyberGhost’s privacy policy, I found that it doesn’t monitor sensitive information, such as your browsing history, IP address, or DNS queries. This has been verified and proven true by a 2022 independent audit conducted by Deloitte.

I found it a bit concerning that CyberGhost collects non-personal data, such as what type of device you’re using, your OS version, screen size and resolution, and so on. Other VPNs, like ExpressVPN and PIA, don’t log this kind of information. Luckily, this data is completely anonymous and cannot be tied back to you.

CyberGhost’s monthly plan is a bit expensive, and it only comes with a 14-day refund period. However, its long-term plans include a generous 45-day money-back guarantee, so you can try CyberGhost for free.

Useful Features

• Based in Romania. Romania is outside the 14 Eyes Alliance, so it’s not obliged to share information with any organization or government.
• Private Browser. CyberGhost has its own free browser that uses DuckDuckGo as the default search engine and automatically deletes your browsing history every time you turn it off.
• Privacy Guard. This is a Windows-only feature that allows you to turn off Microsoft privacy-invasive features and personalized Windows ads.
• NoSpy servers. Located in CyberGhost’s Romanian headquarters, these servers are fully managed by its team. This is a much safer approach than servers based in third-party data centers, as it guarantees no third-party involvement.

4. NordVPN — Panama-Based VPN With 4 Independent Audits of Its Logging Policy

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www.nordvpn.com

NordVPN is based in Panama, which has no data retention laws and is outside the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance. Plus, its entire server network is fully owned and maintained by its staff, which is a much safer approach than housing them in third-party data centers. It’s also partnered with VerSprite, which conducts regular security audits to ensure airtight protection.

Its privacy policy states that it doesn’t collect any personal information, like your IP address or traffic logs. This has been proven true by 4 independent audits, the latest of which was performed in December 2023 by Deloitte. Like CyberGhost, it introduced regular transparency reports to show the number of government and DMCA requests it receives.

The audits show specifics, like which features or policies were examined

I checked its latest privacy policy update, and NordVPN claims it may comply with court orders to hand over user data. It will do so if they’re in line with the laws and regulations of their jurisdiction. It also states that it stores your connection timestamp for 15 minutes after your session ends. But it’s been proven multiple times that NordVPN doesn’t log any identifying data, so I’m too concerned about these policies.

All NordVPN plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can receive a full refund if it’s not the right VPN for you. For extra privacy, you can pay with Bitcoin via BitPay.

Useful Features

• Threat Protection. NordVPN’s powerful ad and malware blocker works continuously, even when you’re not connected to the VPN. I tested it with ad-heavy torrenting sites, and it worked like a charm.
• Double VPN servers. These route your traffic through 2 servers instead of 1, doubling the encryption. This does slow down speeds, though, but it’s worth it when you want extra privacy.
• Bug bounty. This public program was launched in 2020 to encourage “ethical hackers” to look for vulnerabilities in NordVPN’s service for compensation.
• Colocated servers. Similar to PIA, NordVPN offers self-owned servers to ensure that your privacy is protected. It plans to eventually have an entirely self-owned network, but for now, you can simply inquire via 24/7 live chat to be directed to its colocated connections.

5. Surfshark — Proven No-Logs VPN With a Public Warrant Canary

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Try Surfshark >

www.surfshark.com

Surfshark has a Warrant Canary on its website, where you can see if it has received any legal orders to share user data. To date, it has received no National Security letters, gag orders, or warrants from government organizations. While I was testing Surfshark, it gave me peace of mind that my data wouldn’t be shared with unwanted third parties.

I was relieved to find out that Surfshark hasn’t been forced into sharing any user data

Surfshark collects no personally identifiable information. In 2022, it successfully passed its first independent no-logs audit, which was performed by Deloitte. In 2018 and 2021, cybersecurity firm Cure53 carried out audits on Surfshark browser extensions and server infrastructure, respectively, and no major vulnerabilities were found.

The only thing I didn’t like about Surfshark is that it’s based in the Netherlands. For maximum security, it’s much better for the VPN to be based outside the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance. Still, its no-logs policy has been proven and verified, so even if a government organization requests data on a Surfshark user, there isn’t anything of use to share.

All of Surfshark’s plans are backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it without any risk whatsoever.

Useful Features

• Camouflage mode. This feature hides the fact that you’re using a VPN. It boosts privacy and allows Surfshark to work on restricted networks, like at school or work.
• Alternative ID. Surfshark’s Alternative ID generates a brand new online identity and email address to use online that’s linked to your real email address to protect your identity. It’s really easy to use on its app.
• Rotating IP. This feature changes your IP address every few minutes, so you can avoid the risk of using the same IP address for too long.
• Dynamic MultiHop. You can route your traffic through 2 VPN servers of your choosing, making it harder to track your activity.

Quick Comparison Table: No-Log VPN Features

All our listed VPNs have strict no-logs policies, but they differ in the privacy features they offer. In the table below, you can contrast and compare our top no-logs VPNs, so it’s easier to choose the best one for your needs.

Take into consideration other details that display a service’s commitment to user privacy. Multiple audits, transparency reports, and a privacy-friendly jurisdiction all provide the assurance that your data is safeguarded on all fronts. Strong privacy features, like obfuscation ensure added layers of anonymity over your connections.

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.

Types of VPN Logs (And Which Ones You Should Be Concerned About)

In truth, there is no 100% no-logs VPN. A VPN must keep at least some of your information, such as your email address and payment info, in order to maintain its service. What truly matters is whether a VPN collects data that can be traced back to you.

When reading a VPN’s logging policy, look out for whether it collects any personal user data in addition to what is required for account creation. If any data is stored, make sure that it’s aggregated or anonymized to ensure it’s not identifiable. Finally, check how long the data is stored for.

Here’s a breakdown of the most important usage logs and which ones you should be concerned about.

• Usage logs. This is information about your online activity, such as your browsing history, the sites you visit, and the online services you use. None of the VPNs on our list retain any usage logs, and if a VPN service has been found to do so, you should definitely avoid it.
• Connection logs. This is information about the VPN server you used, connection timestamps, and the amount of data used. Most VPNs collect at least some of this information to maintain their service, but as long as the data is anonymized (can’t be traced back to you), it’s not a privacy concern. However, you should avoid VPNs that store your IP address, as it can be used to identify you.
• User information logs. This is information you share with your VPN provider when you subscribe, including payment info, email address, passwords, date of birth, and home address. Again, if this data is anonymized, it’s not a big issue. For extra security, you can use a new email address to sign up and pay with cryptocurrency.

Analysis of the Best No-Logs VPNs

Here’s a more in-depth analysis of the specific data I found that each VPN stored. Each of the VPNs stores your email address, along with payment information, as it needs this information to create your account.

Some VPNs collect aggregated data, which is required to maintain customer service and improve their service, but this data cannot be traced back to you. I’ve also considered whether your bandwidth data, browsing data, and IP address are stored.

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.

Tips on Choosing the Best No-Log VPN

During my research, I used different criteria to determine the most appropriate no-logs VPN that fits your needs.

• A proven no-logs policy. Make sure the VPN explicitly states it doesn't keep logs of personally identifiable data, such as your IP address, browsing history, connection timestamps, and DNS queries.
• Independent audits. Look for a VPN that undergoes regular third-party audits to verify their no-logs claims, demonstrating their commitment to transparency. It’s even better if the VPN has proven in real-life scenarios it stands by its no-logs claims. For instance, some VPNs have received requests from authorities to hand over user data, but there was no useful information to provide
• Privacy-friendly jurisdiction. It’s best to choose a VPN based in a country that’s outside the 14 Eyes Alliance, as this means it’s not obliged to store and share your personal data with other members of the Alliance.
• Strong encryption and security features. A no-logs VPN should also offer AES 256-bit military-grade encryption. Additional security features, such as a kill switch and IP/DNS leak protection, are also a must, as this will ensure none of your private data is accidentally exposed.
• RAM-only servers. RAM-only servers are a useful feature to have if you’re concerned about your privacy, as this means all data is erased from the server with each reboot
• Fast speeds. I also made sure the VPN offers fast speeds for seamless torrenting, browsing, or streaming while maintaining your privacy.
• Anonymous payment options. VPNs that accept anonymous payment methods, such as cryptocurrencies, add an extra layer of privacy, as you don’t have to share your payment info to subscribe.

VPN Services That Are Known to Keep Logs

While researching the best no-logs VPNs, I came across a few services that have been known to collect and store user logs. Here are the VPNs you should avoid.

• Hola: A popular free service that’s actually a peer-to-peer proxy network. It doesn't provide any encryption, and its privacy policy openly admits to collecting your IP address, web pages you visit, time spent on those pages, access times, and dates, among other details.
• BolehVPN: It admits to storing logs when it detects suspicious activity or as a last resort for troubleshooting. Without more detail about when this occurs, I find it quite concerning.
• ThunderVPN: Another free VPN service that admits to logging your IP address, your choice of server, and the times you connected, among other things.
• Betternet VPN: It doesn’t log personal data, but it records your device or mobile advertising identifiers. It also stores operating system versions and your internet service provider and carrier name.
• VPNBook: VPNBook’s privacy policy is short and vague. It confirms that it collects your IP address and the time the connection was made and stores this information for one week.
• OperaVPN: OperaVPN’s privacy policy is also extremely vague, and it doesn’t explicitly state what data it does and does not collect, just that some data it collects “may be considered ‘personal data,’” which is pretty concerning.

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.

FAQs on the Best No-Log VPNs

Which VPNs do not keep logs?

While some store some aggregated data, none of the VPNs on this list store any information that can be traced back to you. When choosing a no-log VPN, it's crucial to select services with verified no-log policies. Look for VPNs that have been audited by reputable third parties. It’s also ideal to choose a VPN that’s headquartered in a country with no data retention laws so that they won’t be compelled to hand over user data.

How do I know if my VPN keeps logs or not?

The most telling evidence is if its privacy policy has been independently audited. Some VPNs have also verified their no-log claims in real-life cases. For example, some VPNs have been ordered by law authorities to share information on users but have had no information to share.

To ensure a VPN is privacy-friendly, you should also look at where it’s based. Ideally, a VPN should be based in a country with no data retention laws and one that’s outside the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliances. It's also preferable for the VPN to offer RAM-only servers, as this means all your data will be automatically wiped after each session.

Will a no-logs VPN keep me anonymous?

We cannot guarantee that any VPN will keep you completely anonymous. A no-logs VPN can significantly enhance your privacy online by not keeping records of your internet activity. However, most VPNs will require your email address and payment information to create your account. To keep your information more private, consider signing up with a disposable email address (if the company allows this) and paying with cryptocurrency.

What should I look for in a VPN no-logs policy?

Check if the VPN collects any personal data and make sure that any data that is stored is aggregated or anonymized. You should also check how long the data is stored for so you can be confident that the data is deleted. I also recommend ensuring that the VPN’s logging policy has been audited by an independent third party that has confirmed that it adheres to its claims.

Other features that enhance your privacy are RAM-only servers and effective IP/DNS leak protection that will prevent your data from getting into the hands of third parties.

Are no-logs VPNs legal?

Yes, no-logs VPNs are legal in most countries. Most privacy-conscious VPNs also have their headquarters in privacy-friendly jurisdictions. However, the legality of using a VPN depends on the laws in your specific country or region, so it's advisable to check local regulations. For example, the use of non-government-approved VPNs in countries like China and Russia is illegal.

Can I be tracked or hacked while using a no-logs VPN?

A no-logs VPN reduces your chances of being tracked online, but no service can offer 100% protection against all forms of tracking or hacking. Ensuring your VPN has undergone third-party audits of its logging policies, uses strong encryption, and has robust security features is essential to remain safe online.

What is the best no-logs VPN for Android and iPhone?

All our recommended no-logs VPNs have dedicated Android and iOS apps, so you can use them safely on your mobile devices. Some of them have even undergone third-party security audits on their mobile and desktop apps, so you can be sure that your info will be kept safe while using them.

Are no-logs VPNs safe?

Yes, no-logs VPNs are safe to use. However, most VPNs today claim they keep no logs, so you should always check their privacy policy and see if their claims have been backed by any third-party audits.

Can I get a no-log VPN for free?

There are a few free VPNs, but I can’t recommend them. Although some free VPNs claim they keep no logs, many of them have been known to sell personal user data to third parties for profit. You’re better off using a premium VPN with an independently audited no-logs policy. Plus, some premium VPNs have even been proven in court to store no user information.

The majority of free VPNs also haven’t had their no-logs claims verified by independent organizations, so there’s no way to know whether they truly stand by them.

Get the Best No-Logs VPN

When looking for the best no-logs VPNs, always pick one that collects no personally identifiable information. After all, the main purpose of a VPN is to keep your online activity hidden from your ISP. If it stores and shares data that can be traced back to you, it’s simply not worth purchasing.

The most trusty no-logs VPN I’ve tested is ExpressVPN. Its no-logs policy has been proven true by numerous audits, and its RAM-only servers ensure your data is never stored in the first place. Plus, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try ExpressVPN without financial risk. After canceling my subscription, I got a full refund 2 days later.

To summarize, these are the best no-logs VPNs…

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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