Best Free VPN Although free VPNs may seem like a good bargain, they can pose a significant threat to users’ security by carrying malware or engaging in unethical practices. Therefore, it is crucial to opt for a reliable and trustworthy service provider to avoid such risks. While there are some free VPNs available in the market, they often come with restrictions on usage or limitations.To aid you in selecting the best free VPNs, we have prepared a list of recommended services that offer both free and paid options. These VPNs allow users to test out their services for free before committing to a subscription plan.
However, it is important to note that the free versions may have certain limitations such as data caps or slower speeds.When selecting a VPN service provider, it’s essential to consider factors like encryption protocols, server locations, speed and bandwidth limitations, privacy policy, and customer support. Additionally, it’s worthwhile to read reviews from other users and experts to get an idea of the pros and cons of each service provider. Remember that investing in a paid VPN service can provide better security features and an enhanced user experience compared to using a free one.
Best Free VPN
When selecting a VPN service provider, it is crucial to consider various factors such as security features, privacy policies, and user reviews. A trustworthy VPN provider should have strong encryption protocols and a no-logs policy to ensure user data remains secure. User reviews can also provide valuable information about reliability and performance.While free VPNs may appear to be cost-effective options, investing in a paid subscription plan can offer additional benefits like unlimited bandwidth, faster speeds, and access to more server locations. It is important to note that the right VPN service provider depends on individual needs and preferences.
Other critical factors to consider when choosing a VPN service provider include the level of customer support provided, ease of use of the VPN software, compatibility with different devices and operating systems, as well as the overall price-value proposition offered by the provider. Additionally, some VPNs offer extra features such as ad-blocking or multi-hop connections that can add an extra layer of privacy and security for users. Ultimately, taking the time to research and compare different VPN providers before making a decision is key to finding the best one for your specific needs.
Best Free VPNs In 2024
- Proton VPN: Best for Enhanced Anonymity
- hide.me: Best for Leak Protection
- FlyVPN: Best Free VPN for Gaming
- AtlasVPN: Best VPN for Security and Speed
- Windscribe: Best for Unlimited Device Connection
- VPN Unlimited: Best for Lifetime Protection
- CyberGhost: Best for Ease of Use
- Hotspot Shield: Best for Streaming
Are Free VPNs Safe?
Using a totally free VPN may seem like a good way to save money, but there are several reasons to steer clear of them. Free VPNs frequently restrict speed, data usage, server and device connections, and struggle to unblock streaming sites. Moreover, since no VPN can function without funds, they typically generate revenue through other means, which can negatively impact users. Here are the common practices among most free VPNs:
- They market user data to advertising agencies and analytics firms.
- Weak security features are relied upon, exposing you to cybercriminals and government spies.
- They showcase advertisements that direct you to harmful websites or reroute your traffic to affiliated sites, generating commissions for themselves and leading to your frustration.
In order to help you save money, we suggest opting for the free version of top VPN services. Some of these providers offer free plans that do not compromise your data or identity. We advise making the most of their free trial periods and money-back guarantees to explore their features and functions at no cost.
Proton VPN
Why We Picked It
Proton VPN offers various security features, such as Stealth for bypassing strong firewalls, Secure Core for safe internet usage, and NetShield for ad blocking. Its security protocols, WireGuard and OpenVPN, not only improve internet performance but also safeguard online activities. With Proton VPN’s Accelerator, users can stream unblocked content and maintain high-speed levels, as it increases internet speed by 400%.
Proton VPN strictly abides by privacy laws and has had its no-logs policy audited by third-party experts, ensuring users of heightened anonymity. The ad-free free plan provides unlimited data bandwidth, but lacks advanced security features like DNS leak protection, Proton’s ad-blocker, peer-to-peer (P2P) support, or maximum speeds. Additionally, it does not allow simultaneous use on multiple devices or access to unblocked content.
If you’re interested in trying out Proton VPN, the best way to determine if it’s the right fit for you is to subscribe to a paid plan. The cost is INR 628.62 ($5.99) per month if billed annually, and there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee available. This allows you to cancel your subscription and receive a full refund without any questions asked. However, it’s important to note that cash or bank transfers are nonrefundable, so it’s best to use a different payment method if possible. By taking advantage of this offer, you can explore all the features of Proton VPN and decide if it meets your needs before committing to a long-term subscription.
Who should use it
Proton VPN offers a great solution for those who prioritize speed, privacy, and security. It is an excellent choice for users who do not want to compromise on their internet speeds while enjoying the benefits of enhanced security and privacy. Proton VPN uses advanced encryption protocols that ensure your online activity remains private and secure, making it a popular choice among individuals and businesses alike. With servers in over 50 countries, Proton VPN also allows users to access restricted content from anywhere in the world.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Transparent privacy policy
- Unlimited bandwidth on all plans
- Consistent speed levels
- Risk-free money-back guarantee
Cons
- No dedicated IP server add-on
- No 24/7 live support
- Doesn’t bypass restrictions in censor-heavy countries
hide.me
Why We Picked It
Hide.me provides a wide range of privacy features for both free and premium users, including a kill switch, split tunneling, and auto-connect feature for untrusted Wi-Fi connections. The VPN offers various protocols such as WireGuard, IKEv2 IPsec, OpenVPN, SoftEther, and SSTP. It is compatible with desktops, mobile devices, browser extensions, and routers, and has 2,100 servers in 79 locations. The connection speeds are consistently good across servers, and the VPN is available for as low as INR 412.95 ($4.99) per month with annual billing. Additionally, there is a free version with P2P support, access to eight servers, and a 10GB data bandwidth limit.
While hide.me offers a free plan, it comes with limitations such as only allowing one device per time and lacking WireGuard support, resulting in slower speeds. For users seeking optimal speed and advanced security and privacy features, it is recommended to upgrade to the paid service. Additionally, if the user is unsatisfied with how the service works, they can request a refund within 30 days of purchase. The paid version offers multiple benefits such as unlimited data transfer, access to servers in over 75 locations worldwide, and multi-protocol support for OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec, SoftEther, SSTP, and PPTP. Furthermore, hide.me has a strict no-logs policy which means that user activity is never recorded or monitored ensuring complete privacy and anonymity.
Who should use it
Hide.me VPN is an excellent choice for individuals who require a VPN that supports P2P torrenting or uses the latest encryption protocols to safeguard against hacking and government surveillance. The company offers robust security features, including AES-256 encryption, split tunneling, and a kill switch. Additionally, hide.me VPN has a no-logs policy, ensuring that your online activity remains private. It also provides fast speeds and unlimited bandwidth, allowing you to browse the internet without any restrictions. With servers in over 70 locations worldwide, hide.me VPN makes it easy to access content from around the globe while keeping your online identity secure.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Strong encryption and privacy features
- No registration required for free plan
- 24/7 live chat
Cons
- User interface can be complex
- No annual subscription
- Kill switch malfunctions when you switch servers
FlyVPN
Why We Picked It
FlyVPN offers a three-day unlimited free data period for users to connect to servers located in nine countries. During this period, users can enjoy ad-free internet surfing and choose between encryption protocols such as UDP for gaming and TCP for browsing. In addition, the free VPN comes packed with features like split tunneling that allows users to select which apps require VPN connectivity and a kill switch that disconnects the internet when the VPN connection is unstable.
For those who wish to continue using FlyVPN’s services beyond the free trial, their paid plans start from INR 553.84 ($6.67) per month if billed annually. With this plan, users can access more than 1000 servers in over 40 countries worldwide and enjoy advanced security features like AES-256 encryption, IKEv2 protocol support, and OpenVPN protocol support.FlyVPN’s services are suitable for both personal and business use cases alike, thanks to its robust security measures and ability to bypass geo-restrictions on popular websites and streaming platforms. Its user-friendly interface makes it easy for even novice users to get started with the VPN service quickly.
Who should use it
FlyVPN provides an excellent opportunity for both individuals and businesses to test out the VPN feature before committing to a paid plan. This is particularly helpful for those who are looking to safeguard their online privacy and security while also ensuring that their sensitive information remains protected from prying eyes. With FlyVPN, users can enjoy a range of benefits, including access to geo-restricted content, secure browsing, and protection against cyber threats. Whether you’re using it for personal or professional purposes, FlyVPN is a great option to consider when looking for reliable VPN services.
Pros & Cons
- Unlimited data
- Connect up to five devices
- Comes with kill switch, split tunneling
Cons
Free for three days only
AtlasVPN
Why We Picked It
AtlasVPN offers a free VPN service that provides users with up to five GB of monthly data and access to servers located in the Netherlands and the U.S. The service includes features such as a kill switch, split tunneling, and VPN for streaming. Users can select from OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IPSec/IKEv2 VPN encryption protocols.For those looking for more features and unlimited data usage, AtlasVPN also offers paid plans starting at INR 988.40 per month, INR 4,040.16 per year for the annual plan, and INR 5,895.79 for the three-year plan. These paid plans provide access to additional servers located in various countries worldwide and come with advanced security features such as malware protection and ad-blocking. Overall, AtlasVPN’s services offer a reliable and secure option for individuals looking to protect their online privacy.
Who should use it
Individual use.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Features include Kill switch, split tunneling
- VPN for streaming available
Cons
- Only 5 GB free VPN available
- 24/7 customer support available on paid plan only
Windscribe
Why We Picked It
Windscribe provides ample privacy and security features, offering flexibility and a range of encryption protocols including AES-256, 4096-bit RSA key, and SHA512 authentication. It also includes ad and tracker blocking to maintain internet speed while ensuring security. With servers in more than 69 countries and 112 cities, Windscribe allows users to access the internet without monitoring or restriction. Additionally, it offers a generous free option with access to 14 locations over 11 countries, 10GB of data per month, and the ability to unblock popular streaming sites on multiple devices.
For the best security and speed, consider using any of its paid versions starting at just INR 475.84 ($5.75) per month with annual payments. Additionally, for an extra INR 165.51 ($2), you can obtain Windscribe’s static IP address. However, it’s important to note that Windscribe is a Canadian-based company, which means it is obligated to share data if requested by the government due to international intelligence-sharing agreements.
This aspect may be off-putting, particularly because Windscribe keeps logs of your activity time stamps and data usage for maintenance purposes.Furthermore, Windscribe has a limited refund policy, allowing only three days to request a refund, and no refunds are available if you exceed 10GB of data usage. Moreover, the refund process may take up to 30 days.
Who should use it
If you are someone who desires a VPN that allows for unlimited simultaneous connections and the ability to select your dedicated IP addresses, Windscribe VPN is an excellent choice. With Windscribe, you can connect to an extensive network of servers across various countries and enjoy fast and secure browsing. It also offers a free plan with limited features, which is perfect for those who want to test the waters before committing to a paid plan. The VPN provider also provides robust encryption and security protocols, ensuring that your online activities are kept private and secure at all times.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Static IP address available
- Unlimited device connections even on its free plan
- It bypasses China’s great firewall
Cons
- Based in Canada, a Five Eyes alliance member
- Logs timestamps and data usage for maintenance purposes
- Unreliable bot live-chat support
VPN Unlimited
Why We Picked It
Also referred to as KeepSolid, VPN Unlimited comes with advanced features such as robust encryptions, WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2 to protect your identity and safeguard your online connections, preventing unauthorized access to your information. VPN Unlimited enables you to access your preferred content from anywhere and offers a user-friendly experience (UX), compatible with all devices. This VPN is suitable for both personal and business use, with customized plans for each type of user.
In order to protect your data from unauthorized access, VPN Unlimited enforces a strict no-logs policy, ensuring that your browsing history and data usage are not stored. The standard annual plan is priced at INR 413.78 ($5) and allows simultaneous connection with up to five devices. VPN Unlimited provides a seven-day free trial, giving you the opportunity to test it out at no cost. Additionally, the risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee allows you to explore the paid versions without any financial risk.
Who should use it
VPN Unlimited is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable VPN that works seamlessly across multiple devices. Whether you’re using a Windows PC, Mac, iOS or Android device, VPN Unlimited has you covered. With top-notch security features like AES-256 encryption and a strict no-logs policy, you can rest assured that your online activities are safe from prying eyes. Additionally, by opting for their lifetime subscription plan, you can enjoy complete privacy and security without having to worry about recurring fees. Overall, VPN Unlimited is a solid choice for anyone in need of a trustworthy VPN service.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Strong privacy features
- Dedicated IP address
- Tailored business tier
- Lifetime subscription offering available
Cons
- Expensive device upgrades and add-ons
- Device configuration can be complex
- Kill switch isn’t available on all devices
CyberGhost
Why We Picked It
Despite being one of the most affordable VPNs available, CyberGhost VPN offers an impressive 9,701 servers across 117 locations in 91 countries. Its user-friendly interface makes it accessible even for those new to VPNs. CyberGhost includes features such as ad blocking, specific server locations for streaming and torrenting, and self-managed NoSpy servers focused on privacy. Utilizing military-grade encryption, this VPN conceals your data, identity, and online activities to prevent unauthorized access.
It is compatible with Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, and Linux.CyberGhost VPN also provides access to content that may be restricted in your location, allowing you to browse your favorite content anonymously. The VPN is available for as low as INR 4,550 for the first 26 months, and INR 560 per month for a six-month subscription with monthly billing. Additionally, a dedicated IP can be obtained for an extra INR 206.89 ($2.50) per month.
CyberGhost VPN provides a credit card-free trial to users, offering access to all premium features available in the paid service. The trial duration differs depending on the operating system: 24 hours for Windows and macOS, three days for Android, and seven days for iOS. If these trial periods are insufficient, users can take advantage of CyberGhost’s 45-day refund period by subscribing to longer terms. Additionally, the monthly term includes a 14-day money-back guarantee. This generous policy allows users to experience CyberGhost VPN without a financial commitment.
Who should use it
CyberGhost’s extended money-back guarantee period is a boon for those who need time to explore the features of a VPN. The company offers a 45-day money-back guarantee, which is significantly longer than the standard 30-day guarantee that most other VPN providers offer. This allows users to thoroughly test CyberGhost’s features without worrying about losing their money if they decide not to continue using the service. The extended guarantee period also reflects the company’s confidence in its product and commitment to customer satisfaction.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Easy to use
- 24/7 customer support in four languages
- Dedicated IP add-on
- Discounted multi-year prices
- Antivirus and security add-ons available
Cons
- Only 24-hour free trial on Windows and macOS
- Some CyberGhost reviews express concerns about its parent company
Hotspot Shield
Why We Picked It
Hotspot Shield VPN offers robust security features like WireGuard and IKEv2 VPN protocols, as well as its unique Hydra technology to safeguard against third-party intrusion and enhance connection speeds. Additionally, Hotspot Shield VPN combines military-grade encryption with automatic Wi-Fi and leak protection, while its kill switch and split tunneling options ensure data protection during browsing, streaming, or torrenting.
The paid plan for this VPN costs INR 661.22 ($7.99) per month for an annual subscription and allows up to five simultaneous connections on various devices including Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, Linux, and routers. The router feature provides a multiplier effect, enabling connection to more devices including IoT gadgets.
Hotspot Shield offers a free VPN option with limitations including the absence of specific VPN features, limited device connections, and virtual locations. The free VPN has a speed limit of 2 Mbps, access to blocked content in the U.S. only, and a daily data limit of 500MB, with extra data available through watching ads.
We recommend taking advantage of the seven-day trial for access to premium features or considering a paid plan, backed by Hotspot Shield’s 45-day money-back guarantee. The company’s policy is less strict compared to other VPNs, as it logs visited domain names, bandwidth per session, and user device type. However, the transparency report assures that it won’t share user information with governments, law enforcement agencies, or third parties.
Who should use it
Hotspot Shield VPN is an excellent option for those seeking a VPN that offers ample time to explore its features and provides a risk-free refund. This VPN service provider allows you to test its various features and functionalities for a specified period before committing to a subscription plan. Moreover, if you are not satisfied with the service, Hotspot Shield VPN offers a 45-day money-back guarantee, ensuring that you can try out the VPN without any financial risk. With over 650 million users across the globe, Hotspot Shield VPN is one of the most popular VPN services available in the market today.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Password manager add-on
- Packs a free trial, forever free plan and generous money-back guarantee period
- 1,800-plus servers in 80-plus countries
Cons
- Quite pricey
- No dedicated IP add-on or multi-hop connections
- Limited work or business use
- Based in the U.S., a Five Eye alliance member
How To Choose the Best Free VPN
When selecting a free VPN, it’s important to make sure that it provides the specific features you need, advanced security and unblocking capabilities, optimal speed and performance, and a trustworthy privacy policy. Additionally, it’s advisable to opt for a VPN that offers a fair trial period to access its premium features before making a financial commitment.
Essential Features of a Free VPN
Despite not incurring any costs, it is important to consider certain details when selecting a free VPN.
- Privacy and security: Seek out robust encryption protocols and privacy functionalities like a kill switch and dedicated IP to safeguard against malicious threats.
- Streaming capability: Please take into account VPNs that offer content unblocking capabilities, even when being used on a trial basis.
- Privacy policy: Seek a VPN that has a rigorous no-logs policy and undergoes transparent and audited processes.
Speed and Performance
VPNs are known to affect the internet speed due to the fact that they route data through specific servers. However, it is important to consider the average download and upload speed offered by a free VPN. This is particularly important for activities that require high-speed internet such as video streaming or online gaming.
There are several speed tools like Ookla that can be used to assess how well different VPNs perform in terms of speed and performance. By taking into account this aspect, users can select a VPN that offers both security and fast internet speeds. It is worth noting that paid VPNs usually offer faster speeds than free ones, so users should weigh their options carefully before deciding on a service provider.
Trial Plan and Money-back Guarantee
You need to consider a few things when jumping on VPN free trials or their money-back guarantee to explore their paid versions. You’ll need to determine if the trial period offers enough time to test the VPN. Also, pay attention to the money-back guarantee. Ask these questions:
- Is the refund available to all, or is it determined on a case-by-case basis?
- Is it possible to receive a refund if I signed up through a third party or made payment using cryptocurrency?
- Is it possible for me to receive a complete refund?
- What is the duration of the refund process?
7 Best FREE VPNs for Windows PCs
Conclusion
Choosing a free VPN can be a daunting task since there are so many options to choose from. However, it is essential to prioritize reputable VPN brands with a proven track record of providing security and customer service. When awarding the Forbes star rating, we considered only the most reliable VPN services with highly regarded fee-paying services.
It is important to note that while free VPNs may seem like an appealing option, they often come with limitations such as data caps, slow speeds, and limited server options. Additionally, some free VPNs have been known to compromise user data for profit or share it with third-party advertisers. Therefore, investing in a premium VPN service may be worth considering for those who value online privacy and security.
To assess the quality of a VPN provider, we utilized their websites to gather information on a variety of factors such as data limits, the number of simultaneous connections allowed, server locations, and whether or not the free VPN offers unblocking of streaming services. Additionally, we looked for any additional features that were available with the service. Evaluating these elements is essential in determining the overall effectiveness of a VPN provider.
Having access to multiple servers across various locations is crucial for users who want to browse securely and anonymously while also having unrestricted access to content from around the world. Furthermore, an increased number of simultaneous connections allowed can be beneficial for households with several devices connected to the internet at once.
Best Free VPN Of 2024: FAQs
What Is A Free VPN?
While some VPN providers offer fully free services, they often come with certain limitations. On the other hand, most fee-paying VPNs provide time-limited trials or money-back guarantees to their users. However, to avail these offers, you may be required to share your credit card details and will be automatically subscribed to the plan unless you cancel within the offer period. It is essential to read the terms and conditions carefully before signing up for any VPN service, especially when it comes to fee-paying plans. Additionally, it is important to choose a reputable VPN provider that prioritizes user privacy and security.
What Are The Drawbacks Of Free VPN?
While free VPNs offer a cost-effective alternative to paid VPN services, they usually come with limitations. Users are often restricted in terms of server access, data usage caps, and may experience slower speeds. This makes free VPNs unsuitable for individuals looking to stream content or engage in online gaming.Furthermore, users of free VPNs should be aware that their internet activity may be monitored by the provider and their data could potentially be sold to third-party companies.
Pop-up ads may also appear while browsing online. The quality and performance of different free VPNs can vary significantly, so it is important to test different options before settling on one that best meets your needs.In contrast, paid VPN services typically offer a wider range of features including faster speeds, more server locations, unlimited data usage, and greater privacy protections. While these services require a financial investment, they can provide users with peace of mind when it comes to protecting their online activities and sensitive information.
How Does Free VPN Work?
Many VPN providers offer a free service in addition to their premium or paid-for VPN. The free service typically has limitations such as data caps, slow speeds, and limited connections. The paid-for VPN usually subsidizes the free service. While free VPN may be suitable for some users, it is generally too limited for most users. Some free VPN services may include ads and sell user data to other companies, so it is important to review the terms and conditions or inquire about data selling practices.
Are Free VPNs Safe To Use?
While free VPN services may seem like a great option for those looking to save money, it is essential to exercise caution. Research has shown that some free VPNs have contained malware and spyware, which can pose a significant risk to your device’s security and your personal data. Before signing up for any free VPN service, make sure you do your research and check the company’s track record on security.
Moreover, many free VPN services monitor users’ usage, which could undermine the purpose of using a VPN in the first place. The data collected by the VPN provider might be sold to third-party companies, who can use it to target advertising to you. Therefore, it is crucial to read the terms and conditions of a free VPN service carefully before using it. It may also be worth considering paid options as they are more likely to prioritize user privacy and security over monetization through data collection.
Are VPNs legal?
Using a VPN is legal in most places, such as the U.S., U.K., and Canada, but it is banned in countries like Iraq, Belarus, and North Korea. Meanwhile, China, India, UAE, and Russia have restrictions on VPN usage. It’s important to understand the laws in these places to avoid potential fines or imprisonment.
When might a free VPN not be a good choice?
In addition to concerns about data security, a free VPN is unlikely to meet the needs of those who require consistent speeds, unlimited data, or an ad-free browsing and streaming experience. Consider exploring the top VPN options for a comprehensive solution.
Do all free VPNs sell your data?
Not all VPNs engage in selling user data, but it’s important to note that many free VPNs often depend on revenue streams like data selling or advertisements since they don’t charge users. This undermines the purpose of using a VPN.
