A Virtual Private Network (VPN) protects your online activity by encrypting your internet connection. These tools help you browse anonymously, access region-locked content, and secure your connection from malicious websites or apps.
VPNs are available in both free and paid versions. If you’re traveling, need to access a blocked site temporarily, or want basic privacy, a free VPN is ideal for short-term use. However, finding a free VPN that’s safe, reliable, and easy to use is challenging.
The Geekflare team has tested and reviewed different free VPNs based on privacy features, security standards, device compatibility, and hidden costs to bring you our list of the best free VPNs in 2024.
- 1. PrivadoVPN
- 2. Proton VPN
- 3. hide.me
- 4. Windscribe
- 5. Hotspot Shield
- 6. Avira Phantom VPN
- 7. TunnelBear
- 8. UrbanVPN
- Show less
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1. PrivadoVPN
PrivadoVPN is an ideal choice for secure streaming and browsing, thanks to its 256-bit AES encryption and OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard VPN protocols.
Unlike conventional ad-blockers, PrivadoVPN’s Control Tower provides extra layers of security by offering customizable options for parental controls. Its Threat Prevention feature safeguards you against malware and phishing attempts, enhancing your online security.
For added privacy, the dedicated Kill Switch ensures your connection is instantly cut off during any network breach. On the other hand, the SmartRoute (Split Tunneling) feature adds flexibility by allowing you to use the VPN with specific apps.
PrivadoVPN offers a strict no-logs policy and operates with servers in 66 cities across 49 countries, providing extensive coverage and ultra-fast speeds. Its headquarters are in Switzerland, which isn’t part of the 5 Eyes or 14 Eyes intelligence alliances, making your data protected.
The service allows up to 10 simultaneous connections and is compatible with all major platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Android TV, and Amazon Fire TV Stick.
PrivadoVPN Free Plan Features
With the free plan, you get a bandwidth of 10GB/month, access to 13 global servers, and all the core protections of the paid plan.
PrivadoVPN Paid Plan Pricing
To unlock unlimited data and gain complete access to Control Tower, the paid plans start at $2.99/month, when billed yearly.
2. Proton VPN
Proton VPN is known for its strong speed and security focus. Its Perfect Forward Secrecy ensures that your encrypted traffic remains protected at all times.
It includes AES-256 encryption and the standard OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols. However, its proprietary Stealth protocol is a unique offering designed to bypass VPN blocks and censorship.
Proton VPN’s Secure Core feature adds an extra layer of security by routing traffic through multiple servers. For privacy, it offers Tor over VPN and NetShield, its ad-blocker, which provides DNS filtering to block ads, malware, and trackers.
Proton VPN has 8,150 servers (109 Secure Core servers and 6,921 Plus servers) spread across 112 countries. With a strict no-logs policy and headquarters in Switzerland, it’s outside 5 and 14-eye surveillance, making your browsing private and your data secure at all times.
You can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously, and the VPN is compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS/iPadOS, Chromebooks, routers, and browser extensions.
Proton VPN Free Plan Features
The free plan offers unlimited data and includes core privacy features like a kill switch and the Stealth protocol. However, it supports one device connection and access to specific servers in a few select countries.
Proton VPN Paid Plan Pricing
ProtonVPN is available at a starting price of $3.99/month with annual billing.
3. hide.me
hide.me VPN offers advanced security features with the right balance of privacy and security, thanks to its Bolt technology, which supports the WireGuard protocol.
This VPN offers a suite of privacy tools, including SmartGuard, which actively blocks malware, ads, and phishing attempts. Its Stealth Guard tool allows you to control which apps use the VPN, preventing accidental data leaks.
For added privacy, MultiHop Double VPN routes your traffic through multiple servers, and dynamic port forwarding ensures seamless P2P and gaming connections.
hide.me offers a robust network of 2,600+ servers across 91+ locations worldwide. With its headquarters in Malaysia, it isn’t part of the 5 and 14 Eyes Surveillance Alliance. Additionally, the strict no-logs policy ensures that no data is collected or analyzed.
It supports up to 10 simultaneous device connections and is compatible with Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and browser extensions.
hide.me VPN Free Plan Features
For the free plan, you can access 8 server locations and connect one device at a time. Core privacy features like IP masking and encrypted traffic are included.
hide.me VPN Paid Plan Pricing
You can upgrade to a premium plan at $4.49/month (billed yearly) to access more server locations, additional features, and the ability to connect 10 devices simultaneously.
4. Windscribe
Windscribe offers comprehensive privacy solutions. It includes industry-leading encryption and allows you to generate configuration files for OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard protocols, making it flexible for different devices and usage needs.
R.O.B.E.R.T. is its advanced ad blocker, which blocks IPs and domains, including malware and trackers, enhancing your online experience. It includes split tunneling, static IPs, and port forwarding for better traffic control, secure server access, and seamless gaming or torrenting.
With servers in over 69 countries and 134 cities, Windscribe provides an extensive network for secure and unrestricted browsing. It offers unlimited devices and supports Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and browser extensions.
Windscribe’s headquarters are in Canada, making it part of 5 and 14 eyes surveillance. However, the strict no-logs and the security features ensure that no data is stored, keeping your online activities private and protected.
Windscribe Free Plan Features
With the free plan, you get 10 GB of data monthly (only after email verification), access to servers in 10 countries, and all app features without limitations.
Windscribe Paid Plan Pricing
For those who wish to unlock Windscribe’s full potential, a paid plan starts at $5.75/month (when billed yearly) and provides unlimited data, access to all servers, and additional privacy tools.
5. Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield is an ideal choice if you’re looking for a well-rounded VPN that offers reliable speeds and security. Its proprietary Hydra Protocol optimizes servers for gaming and streaming, while military-grade encryption ensures that the data cannot be decrypted later.
The VPN, with 1800+ servers in 70+ countries, ensures you can access content worldwide. It is located in California, United States, but its strict no-logs policy and transparency report make it clear that no data is collected or analyzed.
Like every conventional VPN, it has core features like an internet kill switch, Smart VPN (Split Tunneling), and IP and DNS leak protection. However, its Tor over VPN, anti-phishing protection, traffic proxy, and traffic obfuscation enhance privacy while keeping your data secure.
Hotspot Shield is compatible with Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, smart TVs, and routers and can secure up to 10 devices simultaneously.
Hotspot Shield Free Plan Features
Hotspot Shield’s free plan includes military-grade encryption, an internet kill switch for secure browsing, split tunneling, and a one-device connection. Its bandwidth limit is 500MB per day.
Hotspot Shield Paid Plan
For those looking for an ad-free experience, faster speeds, more locations, and unlimited data, upgrading to the Premium plan at $6.66/month (billed yearly) unlocks full access to Hotspot Shield’s features.
6. Avira Phantom VPN
Avira Phantom VPN is designed for privacy and secure streaming. It offers AES 256 encryption and the OpenVPN protocol to protect traffic while maintaining the best speeds.
The DNS leak prevention, with IPv4 and IPv6 protocol support, adds extra security by routing data through the secure tunnels. It also supports Avira Phantom Pro P2P file sharing for secure file transfers.
Avira Phantom VPN achieves privacy by masking the IP and preventing the connection from being exposed with its kill switch, which activates if the network drops. It has 1,400 servers across 37 countries, allowing you to unblock websites and access content from anywhere.
Avira’s headquarters are in Germany, which makes it part of the 14 Eyes Surveillance Alliance. However, it operates on a strict no-logs policy, meaning you’re not tracked, and no data is being collected.
You can use Avira Phantom VPN on an unlimited number of devices simultaneously. It is compatible with all Windows, macOS, iPhone, and Android, including selected Smart TVs.
Avira Phantom VPN Free Plan Features
The free version provides 500 MB of data per month, encrypts your data, prevents DNS leaks, and provides a virtual IP address for basic privacy needs.
Avira Phantom VPN Paid Plan Pricing
To unlock unlimited data, a kill switch, and complete server access, you must upgrade to the Avira Phantom Pro, which costs $78 yearly ($6.5/month).
7. TunnelBear
TunnelBear is ideal for users who need a simple VPN with core features that maintain security and privacy. It is powered by the standard WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols with AES 256 encryption to securely bypass restrictions without leaving traces.
To protect privacy, TunnelBear offers VigilantBear, which acts as a kill switch to block unsecured traffic in case your VPN connection is disrupted. TunnelBear’s GhostBear feature makes your encrypted data less detectable by governments, businesses, and ISPs.
With SplitBear, you control which apps or websites are tunneled through the VPN, giving you flexibility in your browsing. All features are compatible with iOS, Android, Windows, and macOS, and TunnelBear supports unlimited simultaneous device connections.
It has over 5,000 servers in 47 countries, and the Fastest Tunnel feature automatically connects you to the optimal server for quick and easy security. It also offers P2P-friendly servers that allow you to share files privately and securely.
TunnelBear is based in Canada and is under FVEY Alliance surveillance. However, its no-logs policy ensures that no user data is stored.
TunnelBear Free Plan Features
The free plan includes 2GB of monthly data and provides access to all features except unlimited bandwidth.
TunnelBear Paid Plan Pricing
To bypass the bandwidth restrictions and enjoy unrestricted VPN access, you can upgrade to the 1-year Unlimited plan at $3.33/month.
8. UrbanVPN
UrbanVPN is an entirely free VPN focusing on speed and unblocking geo-restricted content. It uses AES 256 encryption with OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2 VPN protocols to achieve security and privacy.
UrbanVPN allows you to bypass ISP throttling, ensuring your speeds remain consistent and high regardless of your activity. You can connect as many devices as you need with no limit, and Urban VPN’s anonymous browsing keeps your true identity hidden from third parties.
With over 80 server locations across major cities globally, UrbanVPN provides access to most global content. It is based in New York, which is under FVEY alliance surveillance, but its no-logs policy eases the privacy concerns.
UrbanVPN Free Plan Features
UrbanVPN offers only a single, free plan. It stands out for its unlimited bandwidth, letting you browse, stream, and download without any data usage caps. It also supports unlimited device connections and is compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and browsers.
However, unlike other VPNs, it doesn’t come with any core security and privacy features. Hence, it is ideal to consider it as the last option.
UrbanVPN Paid Plan Pricing
UrbanVPN is completely free to use and doesn’t have any in-app purchases.
What To Consider When Choosing a Free VPN?
Choosing the right free VPN can be tricky. A VPN is meant to protect your privacy and secure your connection, but making the wrong choice could lead to poor performance or expose your data and identity.
So, consider these 10 key factors before choosing a free VPN.
- Check Privacy Policy: Ensure the VPN has a strict no-logs policy and is independently audited. These are crucial for your anonymity and security, so check its privacy terms and verify the transparency reports to confirm.
- Review Customer Feedback and Reddit Forums: Look up user experiences and reviews on platforms like Reddit to check if the VPN lives up to its claims. Honest feedback helps you spot any potential red flags or performance issues.
- Consider Headquarters Location: Check where the VPN is based, as privacy laws vary by country. Ideally, choose a VPN based outside of surveillance alliances like the 5, 9, or 14 Eyes for better data protection.
- Verify Data Limits and Bandwidth: Look for a VPN that offers enough data for your usage without slowing down your connection. Some free VPNs come with strict data limits or throttle speeds, which can impact your browsing experience.
- Inspect Security Features: Check if the VPN has strong encryption (like AES 256-bit), standard VPN protocols, and core security and privacy features, such as a kill switch or DNS leak protection.
- Check for Device Compatibility: Ensure the VPN supports all the devices you intend to use, including desktops, smartphones, and tablets. It’s also worth checking if it allows multiple connections for simultaneous protection.
- Watch Out for Ads or P2P Network Risks: While some ads are acceptable, excessive ads are frustrating and hinder the browsing experience. Moreover, strictly avoid VPNs that add you to a P2P network, as this can compromise your data by exposing your connection to others.
- Consider Anonymous Payment Options: If you plan to upgrade to a premium plan, look for VPNs that support anonymous payments, like cryptocurrency or gift cards. This helps protect your identity and adds an extra layer of privacy.
- Verify VPN’s Data Sharing Practices: Some free VPNs share data with third parties or advertisers to sustain their service. Check if the VPN clearly states that it does not sell or share your information with external entities, protecting your privacy and security.
- Look for Reliable Customer Support: Even with a free VPN, having access to helpful support can make a difference. Consider a VPN that provides live chat, email, or an in-depth help center for assistance.
Best VPNs with Free Trials
If you need a VPN for a short period, opting for a paid VPN with a free trial is a safer choice. Unlike free VPNs that may compromise your privacy and security, the VPNs below offer free trials that let you experience premium security and features without any risks.
1. NordVPN
NordVPN combines advanced privacy features like the NordLynx protocol for fast, secure connections and a Double VPN for added protection. It also offers Threat Protection to block malware and trackers and a Dark Web Monitor for data breach alerts. With over 6,200 servers globally, you get reliable and private access.
NordVPN Free Trial: 7 days on Android
2. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN uses its Lightway protocol for enhanced performance and TrustedServer technology to ensure no data is stored. Its Threat Manager is an advanced ad-blocker, and its servers across 105 countries provide access to content worldwide.
ExpressVPN Free Trial: 7 days on iOS and Android
3. Surfshark
Surfshark provides unlimited device protection. It offers unique privacy features like Incogni and Alert and core features like IP Rotator and Dynamic MultiHop with secure VPN protocols. It also provides access to 3,200+ servers for fast and private connections.
Surfshark Free Trial: 7 days on macOS, iOS, and Android
4. CyberGhost
CyberGhost focuses on fast and secure internet access, with servers in 100 countries optimized for streaming, gaming, and torrenting. Its IP masking and DNS leak protection provide strong privacy without slowing down your browsing experience.
CyberGhost Free Trial: 3 days on Android and 7 days on iOS
5. HideMyAss (HMA)
HMA has extensive server coverage across 290+ locations and excellent security features, such as IP Shuffle for anonymity and a Smart Kill Switch for data safety. It provides a strong balance of speed, security, and privacy with military-grade encryption.
HMA Free Trial: 7 days on all platforms
6. TorGuard
Designed to bypass censorship and VPN blocks, TorGuard’s Stealth VPN feature and its strong ad and malware blocker ensure private and unrestricted browsing. It has 3,000 servers for consistent performance.
TorGuard Free Trial: 7 days on all platforms
7. VyprVPN
VyprVPN’s Chameleon protocol helps in bypassing censorship and restrictive networks. With its automatic Public Wi-Fi Protection and secure protocols, VyprVPN keeps your data safe across 700+ servers.
VyprVPN Free trial: 3 days on all platforms
When You Shouldn’t Use FREE VPN?
Free VPNs often have limitations that compromise your privacy, speed, and overall experience, leading to more harm than good.
Here are 8 situations where you should avoid using a free VPN:
- Sharing Sensitive Information: Free VPNs usually lack strong encryption, putting sensitive data like bank details, passwords, or personal messages at risk. If you’re logging into financial accounts or sharing confidential information, a free VPN could expose you to hackers.
- Streaming or Torrenting: Many free VPNs don’t support streaming services or torrenting, and some even log and share your activity. If you’re looking to access geo-restricted content or download files, free VPNs can slow down speeds or compromise your privacy.
- Connecting to Public Wi-Fi: Public Wi-Fi networks are a prime target for cybercriminals. Free VPNs often lack the security needed to protect you on these networks, leaving your data vulnerable to snooping or theft.
- Needing Consistent Speeds: Free VPNs are known for slow and unstable connections. Whether you’re on a video call, gaming, or browsing, interruptions and lag can make the experience frustrating.
- Relying on Complete Privacy: Some free VPNs log your data and sell it to third parties, including advertisers and data brokers. If you value your privacy, relying on a free VPN could mean that your browsing history and personal information are being shared without your consent.
- Using P2P Transfers: Free VPNs often restrict or block P2P transfers, making secure file sharing difficult and unsafe. Without proper encryption, your IP address and data could be exposed during the transfer.
- Limited Security Features: Free VPNs usually have fewer security features, like a lack of a kill switch, DNS leak protection, or multi-hop connections. This leaves gaps in your privacy and exposes your data during a sudden drop in connection.
- Detection by Websites and Streaming Platforms: Many websites and streaming platforms deny access if found using a VPN. If you need to bypass geo-restrictions and access content, a free VPN might be quickly detected and blocked.
With many risks and unsuitability for security and privacy needs, choosing a premium service like ProtonVPN or NordVPN over free VPNs is recommended. Explore our list of the best VPN services to find trusted options that provide stronger security, faster speeds, and more features to keep your online activities anonymous and safe.
Comparison of Our Top Picks of FREE VPNs
The table below compares our picks of the top free VPNs based on bandwidth limit, simultaneous connections, server location, no-logs policy, and starting prices for the paid plans.
| VPN Service | Bandwidth Limit (Free Plan) | Simultaneous Device Connections (Free Plan) | Server Locations | No-logs Policy | Paid Plan Starts At |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PrivadoVPN | 10GB/month | 1 | 13 countries | ✅ | $10.99/month |
| Proton VPN | Unlimited | 1 | 5 countries | ✅ | $9.99/month |
| hide.me VPN | 10GB/month | 1 | 8 countries | ✅ | $9.95/month |
| Windscribe | 10GB/month | Unlimited | 10 countries | ✅ | $9/month |
| Hotspot Shield | 15GB/month | 1 | 3 countries | ✅ | $6.66/month |
| Avira Phantom VPN | 500MB/month | Unlimited | 37 countries | ✅ | $10/month |
| TunnelBear | 2GB/month | Unlimited | 45 countries | ✅ | $3.33/month (1-year plan) |
| UrbanVPN | Unlimited | Unlimited | 80 countries | ✅ | Completely Free |