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vpnMentor was established in 2014 to review VPN services and cover privacy-related stories. Today, our team of hundreds of cybersecurity researchers, writers, and editors continues to help readers fight for their online freedom in partnership with Kape Technologies PLC, which also owns the following products: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access which may be ranked and reviewed on this website. The reviews published on vpnMentor are believed to be accurate as of the date of each article, and written according to our strict reviewing standards that prioritize professional and honest examination of the reviewer, taking into account the technical capabilities and qualities of the product together with its commercial value for users. The rankings and reviews we publish may also take into consideration the common ownership mentioned above, and affiliate commissions we earn for purchases through links on our website. We do not review all VPN providers and information is believed to be accurate as of the date of each article.
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vpnMentor was established in 2014 to review VPN services and cover privacy-related stories. Today, our team of hundreds of cybersecurity researchers, writers, and editors continues to help readers fight for their online freedom in partnership with Kape Technologies PLC, which also owns the following products: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access which may be ranked and reviewed on this website. The reviews published on vpnMentor are believed to be accurate as of the date of each article, and written according to our strict reviewing standards that prioritize professional and honest examination of the reviewer, taking into account the technical capabilities and qualities of the product together with its commercial value for users. The rankings and reviews we publish may also take into consideration the common ownership mentioned above, and affiliate commissions we earn for purchases through links on our website. We do not review all VPN providers and information is believed to be accurate as of the date of each article.

7 Best Free VPNs in 2024: Fast, Private & Safe to Download

Akash Deep Updated on 30th October 2024 Fact-checked by Christine Johansen Cybersecurity Researcher

Finding a free VPN that's safe and reliable can be a daunting task. While there are plenty of options available for download, many free VPNs fail to protect your privacy, as they claim, and some even sell your data to advertisers for profit. Plus, those that offer decent security often come with limitations like severe data caps and slow speeds, making streaming, torrenting, or even basic browsing virtually impossible.

My team and I tested over 100 free VPNs to find the best ones that are actually safe to use across all your devices. While every completely free VPN has its limitations, some are better suited for certain online activities than others. That said, if you don’t want any limitations, it’s better to use a low-cost premium VPN instead.

My top recommendation is ExpressVPN. While it's not 100% free, it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free. Unlike most free options, ExpressVPN provides unlimited data and fast speeds, perfect for UHD streaming on platforms like Netflix, torrenting, and gaming without interruptions. Its robust security features ensure your privacy is protected on any device, from iPhone and Android to PC and Firestick. 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.

Try ExpressVPN Risk-Free >>

Short on Time? Here Are the Best Free VPNs in 2024

  1. Editor's Choice
    ExpressVPN
    ExpressVPN
    Fast & reliable for all online activities; a paid VPN with a 30-day refund period.
    70% of our readers choose ExpressVPN
  2. Proton VPN
    Proton VPN
    Completely free with unlimited data, but struggles with major streaming platforms.
  3. Avira Phantom VPN
    Avira Phantom VPN
    Free VPN with unlimited device connections, but missing a kill switch feature.
  4. hide.me VPN
    hide.me
    Customizable security settings for tailored VPN use, but free tier limits to 1 device.
  5. Hotspot Shield
    Hotspot Shield
    100% free with a speed-optimized protocol for uninterrupted browsing, but lots of pop-ups.

See 2 More Free VPNs

Be advised: The VPNs we recommend have strict no-log policies, meaning they do not track or store your online activities. This means you are solely responsible for how you use these VPN services. Please ensure you comply with all applicable laws and regulations in your jurisdiction. We do not condone or encourage any illegal activities, including copyright infringement.

Best Free VPNs — Full Analysis (Updated 2024)

1. ExpressVPN — Fastest Speeds to Stream, Torrent, and Game Lag-Free From Anywhere

Best Feature No limitations — fast, safe, and reliable VPN for any online activity
Monthly Data Allowance Unlimited data to let you stream, browse, game, and torrent with no interruptions
Works With Netflix (20+ libraries), Disney+, Hulu, Max, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, DAZN, BBC iPlayer, and more
Free Trial 7-day mobile free trial and 30-day money-back guarantee
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.

ExpressVPN is equipped with everything you need for a wide range of activities. It not only protects you with industry-leading security features but also stands out as the fastest and most dependable VPN that we tested — even when compared to other paid services.

Unlike 100% free VPNs that impose limitations, ExpressVPN offers uncapped data and speeds. In our tests, starting with a base speed of 245.30Mbps, we recorded an average of 239.86Mbps (a 2% drop) on nearby servers. Impressively, even when connecting to servers over 5,000 km away, speeds only dipped to 219.31Mbps. This makes it ideal for bandwidth-intensive tasks.

Screenshot of ExpressVPN's speed test results when connected to long-distance US server from the UKThese speeds are more than enough for HD or UHD streaming and lag-free gaming

Its reliable server network ensures you can access your favorite streaming platforms in HD or even UHD from anywhere. During our tests, ExpressVPN worked seamlessly with all the streaming platforms we tried it with. This includes Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Max, Hulu, and several Netflix libraries. It even works with Indian platforms since it offers virtual Indian servers. We never had to switch servers to safely access these platforms — each site loaded immediately on the first server we connected to.

ExpressVPN’s entire network of 3,000 servers in 105 countries supports torrenting. Many free VPNs don’t allow P2P traffic. Or, you can only use a couple of servers for free, leading to congestion and slow downloads. With ExpressVPN, we were able to download a 700MB file in under 1 minute.

The thing is, completely free VPNs don’t come nearly as feature-packed as this; you will have to pay upfront to try ExpressVPN risk-free, but its 30-day money-back guarantee is one you can count on. I made sure this was the case and used the 24/7 live chat to test it out. The agent just asked why I wanted to cancel. My refund was then issued within a few days.

Useful Features

  • Privacy-focused. ExpressVPN is headquartered in the British Virgin Islands, a privacy-friendly jurisdiction outside the 14 Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance. This means it's not legally obligated to store or hand over your data. Even if it were, there would be nothing to provide — ExpressVPN uses RAM-only servers that wipe all data with every reboot and has an audited no-logs policy.
  • Robust security. The VPN offers military-grade encryption with perfect forward secrecy, DNS/IP leak protection, and an automatic kill switch to safeguard your connection. Plus, ExpressVPN employs automatic obfuscation on all its servers, which allows it to work in countries with strict censorship, like China.
  • Speed-optimizing features. ExpressVPN’s own protocol (Lightway) is optimized to achieve top speeds without compromising security. You get split tunneling, too — I use this to encrypt traffic coming from select apps, so my speeds aren’t affected in other ones.
  • User-friendly and highly compatible. Installation is quick and straightforward across all major operating systems and devices. It even has a native app for Firestick that you can install from the Amazon Appstore. Plus, the MediaStreamer feature (Smart DNS) allows you to stream content on devices that don't typically support VPN apps, such as gaming consoles and smart TVs.
ExpressVPN Offer November 2024: For a limited time only, you can get an ExpressVPN subscription for up to 82% off! Don't miss out!
ExpressVPN Pros, Cons, and Needed Improvements
  • Fastest speeds and unlimited data
  • 3,000 reliable servers in 105 countries
  • Trustworthy 30-day money-back guarantee
  • Not actually free
  • Limited customization

2. Proton VPN — Completely Free VPN Without Data Caps for Unlimited Safe Browsing

Best Feature Zero limits on monthly data usage for endless safe browsing
Monthly Data Allowance Unlimited data lets you leave the VPN on all the time without annoying disconnections
Works With Netflix, YouTube, Spotify, Facebook, Instagram, Kodi
Free Trial Free plan

Proton VPN's free plan gives you unlimited monthly data, so you can browse the web and stream videos without worrying about hitting a data cap. I was pleased that I could keep the VPN connected and secure my connection all day without any slowdowns or annoying ads. This made it convenient for daily activities like web surfing, watching videos, and staying active on social media.

Screenshot of Proton VPN's free app on Windows and unlimited data offer on free planI never had to worry about getting interrupted or cut off in the middle of my online sessions

Unlimited data may make this free VPN stand out as a top option for safe torrenting, but unfortunately, none of the free servers support P2P traffic. You need to upgrade your account in order to access these servers.

Proton VPN’s commitment to privacy makes it one of the safest free VPNs we’ve tested. Its apps are open-source and have been independently audited, so you can trust their security. Plus, being based in privacy-friendly Switzerland and adhering to a strict no-logs policy means your online activities remain confidential.

Proton VPN’s free plan offers 6 server locations, including in the US and Japan. However, you can’t choose a specific location. Instead, the app automatically connects you to what it determines is the optimal server. If you want to try a different server, you can use the Change Server button. Keep in mind, though, that there’s no guarantee you’ll be connected to a different server each time you switch. Plus, a timer limits how often you can switch.

You don’t need to provide payment information to use Proton VPN, but you do need to give an email. This also grants you access to a 7-day trial of its premium plan, which worked great for watching content and torrent downloads.

Useful Features

  • Decent streaming capabilities. Proton VPN securely accessed Netflix US, Disney+, and Crunchyroll in our tests. However, it didn’t work with other Netflix libraries, Prime Video, Max, or Hulu. Only the paid, premium plan allows safe access to these platforms from anywhere.
  • Dependable security. It offers AES-256 encryption, DNS leak protection, and a kill switch that blocks internet traffic if your free VPN loses connection. Even the iOS and Android apps come with a kill switch called Always-on VPN, which is rare for a free VPN.
  • Uncapped speeds. Proton VPN advertises that it only gives you access to "medium" speeds with the free plan. But, we only lost about 7% of our baseline connection on nearby servers in the Netherlands. Plus, you don’t have to worry about ISP throttling.
  • Router support. Unlike most free VPNs, Proton VPN can be set up on your router. This helps you overcome the free plan’s limitation of 1 device connection.
Proton VPN Pros, Cons, and Needed Improvements
  • Unlimited monthly data
  • Reputable privacy practices and features
  • Fast speeds near and far
  • Only nearby server connection
  • No P2P support

3. Avira Phantom VPN — 100% Free With Unlimited Simultaneous Device Connections

Best Feature No cap on device connections, so you can secure all your household gadgets
Monthly Data Allowance 500MB per month (1GB if you provide your email), allowing around 10–20 hours of secure browsing
Works With Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, YouTube, Spotify, and more
Free Trial Free plan

You can protect any amount of devices with Avira Phantom VPN, but I was especially impressed with its free mobile apps for Android and iOS. They offer tons of servers and work with some popular streaming platforms — this is rare for a free VPN. And since there is no connection limit, your entire household can benefit from this.

Unlike Avira’s desktop client, which only lets you connect to a server using the Nearest Location feature, Avira’s free mobile apps offer servers in 37 countries. This also includes a US streaming-optimized one, so it can access popular US shows in HD from anywhere. In our tests, Avira worked seamlessly with Netflix US, Hulu, and Disney+.

Screenshot of Avira Phantom VPN mobile iOS app showing server networkIts "Nearest Location” feature automatically connects you to the fastest server nearby

Avira Phantom VPN’s desktop and mobile apps have good speeds and support torrenting. When we tested out its torrenting capabilities, we had a speed of 197.20 Mbps on a UK server, which is a 12% loss from our base speed. This let us download a 120MB file from BitTorrent in 5 seconds. Just be aware that it lacks a kill switch, so your online activity risks exposure once you run out of data.

That said, you only get 500MB of monthly data with this free VPN (1GB if you sign up with your email), which isn’t sufficient for large downloads or extensive streaming. However, there is a 7-day trial of the premium version (only on mobile), which includes unlimited data.

Useful Features

  • Robust security and privacy features. All of its apps protect you with a zero-logs policy, leak protection, and 256-bit encryption. It also offers an "auto-connect” feature that automatically connects the VPN if it detects an untrusted WiFi network.
  • Malware protection. With 1 click, you can enable a feature on desktop to block malicious sites and content.
  • OpenVPN protocol. Avira Phantom VPN's Windows, macOS, and Android apps use this trusted protocol. On iOS, it only offers IPsec, though.
Avira Phantom VPN Pros, Cons, and Needed Improvements
  • Unlimited simultaneous devices
  • Access to 37 countries on mobile
  • No signup required
  • Max 1GB monthly data (with email signup)
  • No kill switch

4. hide.me — Entirely Free With Customizable Security to Fine-Tune Your VPN Use

Best Feature Plenty of adjustable settings to tailor your VPN connection to your needs
Monthly Data Allowance Unlimited, with a 10GB allowance on the servers of your choice
Works With Netflix, YouTube, Spotify, Facebook, Instagram
Free Trial Free plan

Along with military-grade encryption, a kill switch, and leak protection, hide.me's free plan has a ton of advanced security settings. Stealth Guard allows you to bind the VPN to your network (or just certain apps) for top security. It also comes with an impressive 5 protocols, including WireGuard, OpenVPN, and SoftEther.

Screenshot of hide.me free VPN app's setting showing customizable settingsTo help guide you, hide.me provides descriptions of its features

The VPN has free servers in 8 locations, covering the US, the UK, the Netherlands, Germany, France, Finland, and Switzerland — and most work with Netflix. For instance, we could use it to access Netflix US and UK as well Disney+ in HD. However, it didn’t work with Max, Hulu, and other Netflix libraries.

Its no-logs policy is solid but not flawless. It logs anonymized data like your total amount of data traffic, randomly generated usernames, and assigned IP addresses. However, this data is erased every few hours and can’t be used to identify you.

Unfortunately, hide.me’s free plan restricts your speeds. We never exceeded 26 Mbps, no matter which protocol I used. WireGuard gave me the best speeds, with an average of 25.16 Mbps on nearby servers (an 89% loss from my base speed). It was still fast enough to let me stream in UHD, but you may have a more noticeable drop if you have lower base speeds.

Useful Features

  • Free 24/7 live chat. I used this a few times, and the support agents were helpful and friendly, even though I wasn’t a paying customer.
  • Torrenting support. With split tunneling, custom port selection, and unlimited data, it’s not a bad option for safe torrenting. It’s just too bad that it restricts your speeds, so you may experience sluggish downloads.
hide.me VPN Pros, Cons, and Needed Improvements
  • Tons of customizable security features
  • Unlimited monthly data
  • Free servers in 8 locations
  • Capped speeds
  • No server selection after 10GB of data

5. Hotspot Shield — Free Plan With a Proprietary Hydra Protocol for High-Speed Security

Best Feature Hydra protocol delivers fast speeds for optimal performance
Monthly Data Allowance Unlimited data lets you secure your connection without caps
Works With YouTube, Spotify, Facebook, and Instagram
Free Trial Free plan

Hotspot Shield's free VPN plan stands out with its proprietary Hydra protocol, which optimizes speed, security, and performance compared to the other protocols that it offers (WireGuard and IKEv2). Hydra achieves this by using multiple parallel channels for data transmission, reducing latency, and improving connection speeds. We found Hydra effective when we tested Hotspot Shield Basic’s speeds.

Screenshot of Hotspot Shield's speed test results on faraway US serverWe barely noticed a difference between the US server speeds and the nearby UK server

Hotspot Shield's no-logs policy is decent. However, as a free user, anonymized data like bandwidth usage, device type, and OS version are collected. This information is aggregated and cannot be used to identify you, though. It only has a kill switch on its Windows app, as well.

I also found the free VPN app a bit annoying to use — it’s ad-supported, so I was faced with annoying pop-ups asking me to upgrade to the paid plan while connected to its free servers. Even though streaming servers show up on the home screen, you can’t use them. So, it doesn’t support streaming with the Basic plan.

Useful Features

  • Unlimited data for torrenting. Hotspot Shield’s Basic plan offers unlimited data, which is a rarity. It supports P2P traffic, too, so this is a solid choice if you’re looking to protect yourself while torrenting.
  • Multiple server locations. You get 5 server locations across the US, the UK, and Singapore.
  • Standard security features. It has a few customization options — for instance, Start on launch connects the VPN when you launch your device’s software, and Local network lets you access your regular internet connection via the VPN. Plus, split tunneling, military-grade encryption, automatic WiFi protection, and leak protection.
Hotspot Shield Pros, Cons, and Needed Improvements
  • Speed-optimized Hydra protocol
  • Unlimited monthly data
  • Supports torrenting traffic
  • Ad-supported
  • Logs anonymized data
  • Doesn't support streaming

6. TunnelBear — Free VPN Global Server Network Offers Worldwide Connection Options

Best Feature A huge server network covering 47 countries to change your online location
Monthly Data Allowance 2GB of data allows around 2 hours and 30 minutes of SD streaming
Works With Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, Spotify, Facebook, Instagram
Free Trial Free plan

TunnelBear’s free plan covers a wide range of countries, allowing it to safely access tons of global content from anywhere. The server network is pretty reliable. During our tests, TunnelBear worked well with some of the popular Netflix libraries, including the UK, US, Canada, and Japan.

Screenshot of TunnelBear's free Windows VPN app showing server map and drop-down listYou can also select “Fastest Server” to be automatically assigned the best connection

Its apps feature an engaging, bear-themed design and a user-friendly interface, making this free VPN an attractive choice if you value simplicity and ease of use. The use of bear puns and cute animations made testing this free VPN (actually) fun. With its world map feature, you can tap a tunnel and the bear will dig its way to emerge in that location.

The free package offers 2GB of monthly data that you can use on unlimited devices. However, apps are limited to Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, and TunnelBear doesn’t support routers.

Useful Features

  • Solid for privacy. While it’s located in Canada, a not-so-privacy-friendly country, TunnelBear undergoes annual security audits of its infrastructure and apps and adheres to a strict no-logs policy.
  • Good speeds. In our tests on its nearby UK servers, we only had a 19% speed drop. This means you can stream in HD without any slowdowns.
TunnelBear VPN Pros, Cons, and Needed Improvements
  • Free servers in 47 countries
  • Works with some streaming platforms
  • Fun, quirky app design
  • Only 2GB of monthly data
  • Doesn't offer apps for some devices
  • Not router compatible

7. Speedify — 100% Free With Bonding Mode to Boost Connection Speeds

Best Feature Bonding Mode prioritizes connections for optimal speeds and performance
Monthly Data Allowance 2GB of data allows several hours of securing your online activities
Works With YouTube, Spotify, Facebook, and Instagram
Free Trial Free plan

Speedify's free VPN offers a unique feature called Bonding Mode, which you can use to enhance your connection speeds. During our tests, enabling this feature resulted in a slight speed increase of 6% compared to when it was disabled. This enhancement can make a significant difference if you’re dealing with slow or unstable internet connections.

Screenshot of Speedify's free Windows app showing the Bonding featureYou can also choose the "Enhance Streaming" option, which prioritizes streams or video calls over other traffic

This is another free VPN that offers good server coverage — you get server locations in 35 countries. This gives you greater flexibility for optimizing connection speeds compared to other free VPNs with limited server options. However, it’s not a reliable choice for streaming — it didn’t work with any of the Netflix libraries we tested it with.

Speedify states that it does temporarily store some of your data (including your IP address, a unique device identifier, and timestamps). But it never logs your online activities or associates them with your IP address or device.

You don’t have to sign up to use the free VPN plan, which provides a 2GB monthly data allowance. That’s decent for light browsing but pretty limiting for streaming or torrenting. You can access a 7-day free trial once you download the free app, which gives you unlimited speeds and data. Keep in mind that the free plan allows usage on only one device at a time.

Useful Features

  • Strong encryption. With AES-256-GCM encryption, so your data is secure. You have to upgrade to use the kill switch since the free VPN doesn’t offer this.
Speedify Pros, Cons, and Needed Improvements
  • Bonding mode for fast speeds
  • Free servers in 35 countries
  • No signup required
  • Temporarily logs some data
  • Only 2GB of monthly data
  • Doesn't support streaming

Quick Comparison Table: Free VPN Features

All of the recommended free VPNs are safe to use — but they vary quite a bit as far as which online activities they’re most compatible with. Use the following table to compare and contrast each free VPN in this list. ExpressVPN is our premium recommended VPN, which is included for a side-by-side comparison with the free options.

When engaging in data-intensive activities like streaming and torrenting, it is advisable to seek a free VPN that offers a generous data allowance or, ideally, unlimited data. The availability of server locations can influence the accessibility of certain websites and applications, and having torrenting support is essential for sharing peer-to-peer files.

You may also want to consider how many household members or devices you’ll need to share the free VPN with. Also, if you’d rather not provide an email while signing up, there are a few free VPNs that don’t require you to do so.

Free plan or money-back guarantee? Best For Data Limits Speed Drop (Local Servers) Simultaneous Device Connections # of Server Locations Signup Required? Supports Torrenting?
🥇ExpressVPN 7-day mobile free trial and 30-day money-back guarantee Streaming, torrenting, gaming, browsing, privacy, and more Unlimited 2% 8 3,000 servers in 105 countries Yes Yes
🥈Proton VPN Free plan Privacy, browsing Unlimited 7% 1 6 server locations Yes No
🥉Avira Phantom VPN Free plan Privacy, streaming (on mobile) 500MB or 1GB if you sign up with an email 12% Unlimited Only nearby location on desktop, 37 on mobile No Yes
hide.me Free plan Privacy, streaming, torrenting Unlimited 89% 1 8 server locations No Yes
Hotspot Shield Free plan Torrenting Unlimited 24% 1 5 server locations No Yes
TunnelBear Free plan Privacy, streaming 2GB 19% Unlimited 47 countries Yes Yes
Speedify Free plan Browsing 2GB 39% 1 35 countries No Yes

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.

Our Methodology For Choosing the Best Free VPNs

When evaluating free VPNs, we prioritize key factors to ensure a secure and reliable online experience. We assess server availability, speeds, and the VPN’s ability to handle activities like streaming, browsing, and downloading. We check for essential security features such as strong encryption, DNS/IP leak protection, and a kill switch. Plus, we review each VPN’s privacy policy to confirm a strict no-logs stance, ensuring your online activities remain private.

Our team conducts real-world usage scenarios to simulate typical user behavior, including streaming, secure browsing, and downloading files. We test the VPNs on various devices and operating systems to verify compatibility and ease of use. By combining technical evaluations with practical testing, we ensure the free VPNs we recommend offer a balanced mix of performance, security, and usability. For more details on our testing process, visit our VPN testing methodology page.

Expert Tip: Most Free VPNs Aren’t Safe

While the free VPNs on our list have been thoroughly vetted for safety and reliability, many other free options pose significant risks that can compromise your privacy and security. Here are some common dangers associated with using free VPN services.

  • Data harvesting and selling. Some free VPNs collect your browsing data and sell it to advertisers. For example, Hola was found to be selling user bandwidth and data, which defeats the purpose of using a VPN for privacy.
  • Information leaks. Without essential security features like IP/DNS leak protection and kill switches, free VPNs can inadvertently expose your IP address and online activities. During our tests, some free VPNs failed to prevent DNS leaks. This can reveal your browsing history and compromise your privacy.
  • Malware and adware. A number of free VPNs include malicious software or display intrusive ads that can harm your device or steal information. In some cases, free VPN applications have been found to contain malware that can compromise your system’s security and personal data.
  • Questionable ownership. Many free VPNs are operated by companies with unclear or dubious reputations, increasing the risk of data misuse. For instance, some free VPN providers are linked to entities in countries with weak privacy laws, raising concerns about how your data is managed and protected.
  • Limited security protocols. Free services often lack advanced encryption and robust security measures, leaving you vulnerable to cyber threats. Certain free VPNs use outdated encryption standards that do not effectively protect your data from hackers and other malicious actors.

For people who don’t want to pay for a VPN and don’t trust free VPNs, alternatives like TOR, private browsers, or making your own VPN might seem appealing. However, these options come with their own challenges.

TOR can be slow and isn’t suitable for streaming or torrenting. Private browsers offer limited protection compared to a full VPN. Setting up your own VPN can be technically complex and may still not provide the same level of security and reliability as a professional service.

Generally speaking, your best bet is to use a trusted, low-cost premium VPN (ExpressVPN is our top pick). Premium VPNs offer strong security features and strict no-logging policies to keep your personal data safe. Plus, plenty of them come with money-back guarantees, so you can test them risk-free for a period of time. If you’re not impressed, you can claim a full refund.

Free VPNs You Should Avoid

When considering free VPN services, it’s crucial to avoid those with significant security flaws and questionable practices. Unlike the reliable free VPNs on our list, the following options pose serious risks to your privacy and security:

  • Hola Free VPN. This service operates as an unsafe P2P network rather than a true VPN, using your IP address without encrypting your traffic. This lack of encryption can lead to legal issues if others misuse your IP for illegal activities. Additionally, Hola logs your personal data, including your real IP, name, email, payment information, and visited sites.
  • Psiphon. Psiphon records region codes, domain names you visit, and connection timestamps, retaining these logs for up to 90 days. The service is also inundated with ads and shares user statistics and data with commercial partners, undermining your privacy.
  • Touch VPN. Despite its popularity, Touch VPN logs extensive data such as timestamped browsing activity, device information, and approximate location. It also allows its "Business Partners" to track and collect information on you while you’re connected, posing significant privacy concerns.
  • VPN Gate. Utilizing volunteer-run servers, VPN Gate opens the door for potential data collection and monitoring by various individuals. Its "Anti-Abuse Policy" states that it logs your IP and browsing activities and shares this data with government agencies, compromising your anonymity.
  • LinkVPN. LinkVPN’s privacy policy reveals that it stores your data and grants access to affiliates and government agencies. The app’s ownership is unclear, but it appears to be managed by a solo developer based in China, who has also developed other privacy-violating VPNs like SuperVPN.

Free vs. Paid VPNs: Which Is Best for You?

Here's a brief summary of the key distinctions between free and paid VPNs, designed to help you make a well-informed choice between the two options:

  • Cost. Of course, the main benefit of a VPN that’s really free is that it doesn’t cost anything. Alternatively, reputable paid VPNs offer a money-back guarantee, which allows you to claim a full refund if you’re not satisfied. You do need to pay upfront to try the service, though.
  • Speed. While most VPNs can give you fast nearby connections, long-distance connections are the real test. ExpressVPN never lost more than 35% of our speeds — even while connected across the world. However, the entirely free options averaged between a 40–80% speed loss on faraway servers. Depending on your baseline connection, this could cause severe lag.
  • Data allowance. It’s common for free VPNs to limit your data usage. As an example, Avira Phantom VPN’s free version caps you to 500MB of data per month, or 1GB if you sign up with your email address. That’s only good for only a few hours of streaming. Paid VPNs generally offer unlimited data, allowing you to torrent and stream as much as you like.
  • Server network. Most VPNs limit the servers you can use for free. This can also lead to user overload, which leads to slower connections. For reference, ExpressVPN offers servers in 105 countries, whereas Avira Phantom VPN offers free servers in 37 countries. Although this is way more than any free VPN I tested, you can only use them via mobile apps.
  • Security and privacy. Premium VPNs offer military-grade encryption, robust DNS/IP protection, and proven no-logs policies to protect your data. While the free VPNs listed here are safe to use, many free VPNs struggle to offer the same level of security and privacy. Some even log your data and sell it to third-party advertisers.
  • Torrenting support. Not all VPNs that are really free support P2P connections, but there are a few that do. It’s much easier to torrent with a paid VPN, as you’ll have unlimited data and much better speeds.
  • Customer support. VPN support teams tend to prioritize paying customers rather than those on a free plan. This means you’re likely to get more responsive customer support with a paid VPN — usually via a 24/7 live chat feature.

Quick Guide: How to Get a Free VPN in 3 Easy Steps

  1. Sign up for a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN as it’s the fastest and most reliable VPN we tested. It’s not free, but you can try it risk-free for 30 days.
  2. Connect to a server. Head to the VPN’s website, install the relevant VPN app to your device, and connect to your chosen server. Nearby ones give you the best speeds.
  3. Start browsing. Start browsing, streaming, or torrenting securely.

FAQs About Free VPNs

Is there a 100% free VPN?

Yes, there is. Most of the VPNs in this list don’t require you to pay anything to use them. Which one is best for you depends on your intended use. Although each has its own set of limitations, they’re all safe to use and provide you with some basic capabilities. These limitations are usually intended to encourage you to sign up for the premium version.

A completely free VPN won’t require any upfront payment. If payment credentials are required to sign up, it usually means it’s a free trial, and you’ll be charged at the end of a certain period. On the other hand, paid VPNs require payment upfront, but most reputable services give you a money-back guarantee period to test out their full-featured services.

Are free VPNs safe, and can they be hacked?

Free VPNs aren’t always 100% safe, and yes, some can be hacked easier than others. I ensured that the VPNs in this list are safe to use by reading their privacy policies — none of them store any identifiable information. I also performed IP/DNS leak tests to make sure my data was properly hidden, and they all passed the test.

Many free VPNs can be dangerous for several reasons. Some don’t offer strong encryption, which can make it all too easy for a hacker to intercept your connection. Others keep logs and share that data with third parties, like advertisers, to make money. Unfortunately, that’s not all — I encountered free VPNs that even contain malware embedded in the apps.

Can I get a premium or unlimited VPN for free?

No, but you can test many premium VPNs risk-free. In the VPN sphere, "premium" essentially equates to "paid." Free VPNs don’t fall into the premium category. They deliberately impose limitations to encourage users to upgrade to a paid plan. However, a few entirely free VPNs we’ve tested offer a bit more than most, like unlimited data, access to their full server network, and decent speeds.

Most premium VPNs require upfront payment and are backed by a money-back guarantee. This lets you test it without restrictions on data, speeds, servers, security features, and more. If it’s not for you, you can request a refund within the specified VPN refund period.

What is the best free VPN for iPhone and Android?

The best completely free VPN for iPhone and Android is the third VPN on my list. The free version of this VPN allows access to servers in 37 countries on mobile devices. Unfortunately, it limits you to only 500MB of data/month (1GB if you sign up with your email address). However, it doesn’t limit the number of devices you can use it on, and you can use the full data limit on each device.

Which free VPN is best for streaming Netflix?

Although most free VPNs don't reliably work with Netflix, we found a couple that do. There are 3 completely free VPNs on my list that worked with Netflix — but they all have their limitations. Speed restrictions, data limitations, and server limitations are just some of the restrictions that make it frustrating to stream with a free VPN.

You'll usually only find the entire package (reliable streaming, fast speeds, and unlimited data) in a premium VPN. Most premium VPNs offer money-back guarantees, too, so you can try them risk-free.

What’s the best free VPN Chrome extension?

Most free VPNs on our list offer Chrome extensions, letting you easily secure your browser traffic with just a few clicks. However, these extensions are usually basic, with limited server options and lacking essential security features. In contrast, the #1 VPN on this list not only includes a convenient Chrome extension but also offers full-device protection without any restrictions.

For complete protection, I recommend using the #1 VPN’s Chrome extension or a comprehensive VPN app. The VPN app encrypts all your internet traffic, offers advanced security settings, and provides access to the entire server network, ensuring maximum privacy and performance that browser extensions alone can’t achieve.

What is the best free VPN for torrenting?

The best completely free VPN for torrenting is the fifth VPN on my list since it has military-grade encryption and unlimited data. However, it only offers free servers in 5 locations, which can cause slowdowns due to congestion. So, you might not have the fastest download speeds if a server is not available near your location.

A better option is using a premium VPN — even better if its entire network supports torrenting. This will save you the hassle of finding a suitable server. Premium VPNs usually offer a 30-day refund period, so you can get your money back if you decide it’s not for you.

Do free VPNs work in Iran, India, the UAE, or China?

A few might work in restrictive countries like Iran, India, the UAE, or China, but they often lack the necessary security features. For a VPN to operate effectively in these countries, it requires advanced features such as obfuscation. This helps it safeguard your privacy. Even those that do provide a certain level of security often impose severe limitations and data caps, making them useful only for a short period of time.

A more reliable approach is to invest in a reputable paid VPN with a money-back guarantee. Premium VPNs have the means to offer unlimited data and speeds, plus top-notch security features like automatic obfuscation. It’s also important that the VPN follows a strict no-logs policy to ensure your personal data is never recorded or stored. Many free VPNs sell user data to third parties for profit.

Get the Best FREE VPN

While all of the free VPNs I listed won’t jeopardize your safety, every free VPN has its limits. If you know what features to look for, you can find the right free VPN for you — whether you need it for streaming, torrenting, or online privacy.

My recommendation for a “one-stop shop” is ExpressVPN. I know it’s not free, but it doesn’t limit you like the 100% free options. It’s fast and gives you unlimited data, with an extensive server network that works reliably for streaming and torrenting. You can try it risk-free since it has a 30-day money-back guarantee. Claiming a refund is quick and easy.

Can’t find a suitable free VPN? Here are the best premium alternatives…

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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vpnMentor was established in 2014 to review VPN services and cover privacy-related stories. Today, our team of hundreds of cybersecurity researchers, writers, and editors continues to help readers fight for their online freedom in partnership with Kape Technologies PLC, which also owns the following products: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access which may be ranked and reviewed on this website. The reviews published on vpnMentor are believed to be accurate as of the date of each article, and written according to our strict reviewing standards that prioritize professional and honest examination of the reviewer, taking into account the technical capabilities and qualities of the product together with its commercial value for users. The rankings and reviews we publish may also take into consideration the common ownership mentioned above, and affiliate commissions we earn for purchases through links on our website. We do not review all VPN providers and information is believed to be accurate as of the date of each article.

About the Author

Akash is a writer at vpnMentor dedicated to providing readers with unbiased and expert advice on online security and privacy. He specializes in analyzing the latest cybersecurity trends and providing up-to-date information to help readers make informed decisions.

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Comments (4)

unlike what have said in this article hide.me is likely to require signups.

vpnMentor
30 Oct 2024

Thank you for sharing your perspective on our review of free VPNs. Our team investigated the accuracy of the review based on your feedback regarding hide.me’s signup requirements. After careful evaluation, we confirmed that hide.me’s free plan does allow use without signup, though certain features or premium plans may require an account. We did not find it necessary to make changes at this time but will continue monitoring user feedback to ensure accuracy. Valuable feedback like yours helps us improve. We thank you again for taking the time to comment!

Stephen Fryer
19 May 2024
19 May 2024

Brilliant very useful
Your explanation of the difference between the free VPN
Was excellent and I thankyou

Thank you for your kind feedback! We're glad you found the explanation on VPNs helpful—your appreciation truly means a lot.