Choose a VPN. Best VPN Service

Sometimes it seems impossible to find a VPN that will give you the feeling of complete safety online. There are hundreds of different VPNs available now, and each provider claims to be the best.

To help you find better protection, we've tested over 300 different VPN services in terms of speed, user data security, and variety of available features. We conducted in-depth tests and analyzed a large amount of data to select the ten best VPNs on the market.

We even reached out to Google and PayPal to check out the rumors going around some VPN providers. We've also removed several suspicious VPN services from our list.: They have not yet been caught sharing user data with third party companies, but we fear that this will happen soon.

Our honest and detailed reviews will help you choose the right VPN for any purpose: watch Netflix online, bypass government Internet censorship, or ensure complete anonymity online.

And it’s not at all about the size of the company: some small VPN services perform much better than the largest providers, even if they don’t have enough money for large-scale advertising. Additionally, when we tested our candidates, we found that some Popular VPN services turned out to be practically useless, and some of them are even dangerous!

Having done all these checks, we can, with a clear conscience, present you with a ranking of the 10 best VPN services that will protect you and your data, and also provide blazing-fast connections.

Want to know exactly how we tested and ranked these VPNs? .

Not enough time? Here is a review of the best VPNs:

Here are the best VPN services of 2020

1. NordVPN

2. ExpressVPN

#2 overall VPN service and the clear leader in terms of speed

• no (all servers support P2P traffic)
• Gives access to: Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, DAZN, HBO GO, Amazon Prime Video, Showtime, Sling TV
• There are applications for: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, BlackBerry, routers, Raspberry Pi, Chrome, Firefox, Safari, PlayStation, Xbox, Apple TV, Nintendo Switch, Amazon Fire TV, Samsung Smart TV, Roku, Chromecast, Nvidia Shield
• Relation to logs: strict no-logs policy
• We tested dozens of VPNs from different locations for connection speed, and ExpressVPN was the clear winner.

ExpressVPN has 3,000+ high-speed servers in 160 countries. This is the fastest VPN in our rankings, making it ideal for torrenting and streaming.

Split tunneling feature will allow you to customize ExpressVPN for yourself and choose which applications and services traffic needs to be encrypted. This very useful if you want to have access to local and foreign content on the same device.

What's more: ExpressVPN helps you access the content you love even on platforms that do not support VPN connections. Function MediaStreamer will allow you to forget about restrictions on accessing content on Smart TVs, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV and even game consoles.

ExpressVPN supports P2P traffic on all of its servers, so you don't have to configure anything to use torrents. The Smart Location feature available in apps will automatically select the most suitable server for you.

ExpressVPN offers 256-bit encryption And OpenVPN support on all platforms, which provides impeccable protection. Also you will protected from DNS leaks using the function Network Lock- emergency disconnection of connection.

TrustedServer- This innovative technology ExpressVPN, which provides each server in the service network with the same level of protection and timely software updates. This new product allows you to significantly reduce the likelihood of encountering various cyber threats. TrustedServer technology also allows ExpressVPN servers to operate using only RAM. Since servers don't have to write anything to hard drives, then after a reboot there will be no data left on the devices at all - in principle. This allows for unprecedented levels of privacy and security.

ExpressVPN consistently bypasses Great Firewall of China blocks, so this is the best option for working with the Chinese segment of the Network.

With online chat ready to help 24/7 and detailed instructions In terms of installation for a variety of supported platforms, ExpressVPN's customer support is also decent.

ExpressVPN- this is great speed combination, immaculate reliability at work and privacy, which is definitely worth the money. You can check ExpressVPN in fact, without any risk, using 30-day money back guarantee. But you won't want to return your money: this VPN can easily satisfy the needs of even the most demanding users.

Don't miss out on the best ExpressVPN deals. .

6. IPVanish

Great apps and stable speeds

• Dedicated servers for downloading torrents: No
• Gives access to: Netflix, BBC iPlayer
• There are applications for: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Windows Phone, routers, Chromebooks, Amazon Fire TV
• Relation to logs: strict no-logs policy

The balance between security and access speed makes IPVanish a worthy VPN that deserves your attention. More than 1,200 servers, excellent block bypass potential and reliable traffic protection - this service has a lot to offer you.

256-bit encryption And many VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, make IPVanish safe and emergency shutdown function And DNS/IPv6 leak protection guarantees you and your traffic constant protection.

The connection speed here is not only high, but also stable, so you don't have to worry about annoying connection dropouts or floating speeds. As a nice bonus, IPVanish not so long ago upgraded its servers to access Netflix, optimizing and improving them.

IPVanish supports P2P traffic and SOCKS5 proxy, which allows you to download torrents quickly. Yes, the service is registered in the USA (and, accordingly, must comply with the requirements of the DMCA), but this does not prevent him from adhering to a strict no-logs policy, so even American “registration” should not scare off torrent lovers.

IPVanish also provides access to additional settings for obfuscation and IP addresses(for example, you may receive a new IP address at certain intervals). All this and also 24/7 available support service And 10 simultaneous connections within one subscription allow the service to stand out from other VPNs. Of course, I would like the money-back guarantee to last longer, but even 7 days- it's much better than nothing.

IPVanish is not the cheapest service, but it is the price is completely justified excellent functionality.

Find out what real users write about this service by reading.

7. Hotspot Shield

Reliable protection and free access to streaming broadcasts

• Dedicated servers for downloading torrents: No
• Gives access to: Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video
• There are applications for: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome
• Logging: yes (connection logs are kept during VPN sessions, and certain data is also collected for marketing purposes)

Hotspot Shield's paid VPN service, also known as Hotspot Shield Premium, will give you access to more than 2,500 servers around the world, and also to stylish applications And fast connections. But is it worth it?

Perhaps yes! This VPN will be a worthy choice for ordinary users, because it uses excellent encryption(128/256-bit) and own development - Catapult Hydra protocol(based on OpenSSL).

Hotspot Shield compresses streaming traffic, which improves access to Netflix and allows you to forget about buffering.

As for the functions, there are emergency disconnection from the network and... nothing more. There is no way to use custom DNS, nor additional settings for torrents. And even though P2P traffic is supported here, you're better off choosing another VPN service from this list if torrenting is your main priority.

Despite the excellent quality of work overall, Hotspot Shield cannot be included as a no-log VPN service. Add US registration to the mix and you're left with a sad conclusion: you'll be an easy target for copyright trolls and DMCA requests. For US residents this is doubly true.

Even though Hotspot Shield has its drawbacks, it was, is and remains a popular, reliable and affordable VPN service. We recommend testing it in practice using 45-day money back guarantee.

You can find out what users of this service say about UltraVPN.

9. VyprVPN

An impressive and affordable VPN for desktop devices

• Dedicated servers for downloading torrents: No
• Gives access to: Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer
• There are applications for: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, routers, Android TV, QNAP, Blackphone, Anonabox
• Relation to logs: strict no-logs policy

VyprVPN offers its users two different plans, but if you have a Windows or Mac device, then you need the Premium plan.

In addition to access to 700+ servers and strict no-logs policy VyprVPN Premium will allow you to take advantage of its well-known feature - proprietary Chameleon protocol.

As an improved version of OpenVPN, Chameleon provides additional protection and helps you bypass geo-blocks even more effectively. As a consequence, VyprVPN is a great option for those who want to bypass Netflix's geo-restrictions and other popular streaming services.

Unfortunately, the Chameleon protocol is only available in applications for desktop devices. However, the basic VyprVPN application also provides sufficient privacy and quality for mobile devices. Applications protected from data leaks, have a stylish interface and, most importantly, convenient and simple.

VyprVPN is hardly a budget service, but there are some great discounts available when you sign up for a long-term plan. VyprVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can give the service a risk-free test run.

VyprVPN has proven to be a reliable service that values ​​user privacy.

Find out what users and experts think about .

The best VPN service for Russia: how we selected and compared these VPNs

Nowadays, many VPN services market themselves as the best of the best, so how do you choose a really good one? Well, we've done the most boring part of the job for you. We've tested 300 different services and compiled a list of the best VPN services on the market. In our comprehensive reviews you will find all the necessary information about the most important characteristics VPN to make an informed choice.

Safety

The two most important aspects of any good VPN service are: privacy and security. You need to find a service that offers all this not only on paper, but also in reality.

There are other factors that determine places in our ranking: server network size, encryption, security features, ease of operation and, of course, price. We took our time carefully studying and testing all aspects of VPN services to compile our reviews.

Best VPN Services: Frequently Asked Questions

Free vs Paid VPNs: Are Free VPN Services Safe?

There is an opinion that privacy on the Internet is a basic human right and you cannot pay for it. In theory, we adhere to the same views However, we must not forget how things work in practice.

VPN services offer their services in exchange for something. And if it’s not about money, you should be wary! Even cheese in a mousetrap is not free: if you do not pay for the product, then you yourself become a commodity.

Unfortunately, most free VPN services provide their services with huge restrictions, and sometimes directly threaten the security and confidentiality of user data. Low speeds, limited bandwidth, annoying ads and even selling user data are far from full list what you might encounter when choosing a free VPN.

How much do VPN services cost? Is it possible to find a good and cheap VPN?

Fortunately, premium VPN services do not cost a fortune. If you buy a monthly subscription, the prices look impressive. But if you pay for a year or two at once, then in terms of calculation it will be about $3–7 per month.

In fact, you can sign up for less than $3 a month!

It is also worth noting that many have, which will help you test them in practice and understand whether their services meet your requirements in terms of speed, security, and so on.

Many services also offer a money-back guarantee: you will have from 7 to 45 days (depending on the service itself) to cancel your subscription and get your money back if you don’t like something.

You can also save on subscription costs by using our.

Can Tor or proxies replace VPN?

Tor, proxy and VPN - these are three absolutely different types services. However, sometimes they are used for the same purpose. Let's take a closer look at this point.

Tor(reduction The Onion Router) - This anonymous network, where your connection is routed through a chain of servers maintained or provided by volunteers. As a consequence, you and your data become much more difficult to track. At the same time, the connection speed drops. This is quite a complex topic, so read ours if you want to understand it better.

We live in the freest time in history, more states are giving preference to a democratic system by adopting liberal values ​​of openness. One of the key factors influencing modern human freedom in society is, of course, the Internet. The greatest invention of mankind has made it possible to find out relevant information from all over the world in the shortest possible time.

We can communicate with people on the other side of the world, read and share opinions about certain events or people while being in a completely different place. But, unfortunately, not all states are ready to completely give up control of information about their citizens and block various sources of information for a variety of reasons. Security, control of opinions and economic considerations are not the entire list of the main factors influencing these decisions. Fortunately, modern technological progress cannot be stopped and any Internet user can access free and paid VPN services.

This technology stands for Virtual Private Network and is a network connection through a number of different foreign servers, thanks to which you can access a blocked site or program using more “liberal” providers. In recent years, VPN services have become more and more popular.

7 Best VPN Services for Daily Use

On the modern market you can find a huge number of services that differ in speed, functionality, ease of use, compatibility with operating systems and, finally, accessibility, because often high-quality programs require the purchase of a subscription. For an inexperienced user It is quite difficult to decide on the right choice. This article should help new users choose a quality VPN. Presented to your attention TOP 7 best VPNs for daily use:

Nord VPN is one of the best VPN service providers on the market today. When we say the word “best” we mean the following characteristics: speed, number of servers, ease of use and availability. The main emphasis of the service is on security of use, because VPN often hides the risks of loss and leakage of your personal data and files. CyberSec technologies are responsible for encrypting Internet traffic at a military level - this protects against various hacker attacks, scammers and ransomware, as well as annoying and ubiquitous advertisers.

At Nord VPN, your privacy is a priority, so you can easily hide your IP address and avoid leaking valuable data. The connection speed is also at the highest level; it allows you to easily download videos from remote servers even with low Internet speeds. This server paid, you can buy a subscription for two years at a promotional price of only $2.75 per month.

Platforms: Windows 10, Linux, Mac, Android, iOS, extensions for Google Chrome and Firefox.

Hidemy.name

The well-known VPN extension in Russia is famous for its fairly high connection speed even in trial version, which captivates users who don’t want to spend a lot of money on purchasing a subscription. The subscription cost is only 349 rubles per month, which is currently a very low price. The subscription includes the ability to use up to 5 devices simultaneously. All new servers will be automatically added to the subscription. A very convenient feature is to purchase a daily tariff plan for only 50 rubles. Perfect for those who do not need a monthly tariff, and also just get acquainted with the service.

Platforms

An English-language service entering the global market. The emphasis of the presented provider is on ultra-fast connection speed and subsequent connection. This allows you to work with absolutely any site without losing loading speed. Security, anonymity and confidentiality of use are at the same high level. Nice design and ease of use attracts more and more users from all over the world.

Just like Nord VPN, it works on most devices with operating systems such as Windows, Android, iOS and MacOS. The tempting subscription price today is $2.88 per month.

Platforms: Windows 10, Linux, Mac, Android, iOs, Android TV, extensions for Google Chrome and Firefox and others.

An equally rated and popular service with its own wide audience. In terms of all its functions and amenities, it is the flagship of the market and offers some of the most favorable conditions. 256-bit encryption, automatic Wi-Fi protection and complete confidentiality make the program safe, and a convenient and balanced interface reduces the search for the desired function on an intuitive level. Very favorable price - only 160 rubles per month!

Platforms

All free VPN services have very limited functionality compared to paid ones. Below you will understand why.

It is also worth introducing free VPN services that allow you to seamlessly surf blocked sites:

Not only paid extensions can boast high security scores, because Hotspot Shield has a secure connection feature over unfamiliar Wi-Fi, which is very useful for paying in various online stores.

The disadvantage of the free version of the service is the inability to select a server, which can cause connection speed to suffer. This will negatively impact data loading times. Also, the disadvantages include the too small amount of traffic - only 750 MB per day. This will definitely not be enough for watching videos, movies, and downloading files.

Platforms: Windows 10, Linux, Mac, Android, iOS, extensions for Google Chrome and Firefox and others.

People call it “the bear” and choose it for its interface style. Considering the functionality of the free version, it is worth saying that TunnelBear is the best offer, since it is quite suitable for an undemanding user. When you connect, you have access to as many as 20 free servers from different countries that differ in speed.

The downside of the service is the meager amount of traffic, only 500 MB daily. You can try it for free directly on the website.

Platforms: Windows 10, Linux, Mac, Android, iOS, extensions for Google Chrome and Opera.

Quite a successful project providing an impressive 10 GB. for free use for a month (about 330 MB per day). The stylish design of the program, the ability to select a country with a server and reliable connection security make using even the free version of the service convenient and affordable way avoid blocking.

Platforms: Windows 10, Linux, Mac, Android, iOS.

The role of VPN in the modern world

Today, various VPN services are in demand among tens of millions of users, they are especially popular among domestic users, since a large number of various prohibitions have recently appeared. Among the most high-profile blockings of Roskomnadzor, the following can be distinguished: Rutracker, LinkedIn, Lurkmore and, finally, Telegram, which began to widely enter the domestic market. Using an affordable and simple VPN you can bypass this blocking and continue to use these sites without any problems.

Every Internet user has the right to remain “in the shadows” when visiting various sites. Given the constant cyber-attacks and the persistence of security agencies, which regularly ask providers to provide information about the activities of citizens on the Internet, the need for data encryption becomes very urgent. You can ensure their reliable protection and protect yourself, but to do this you will need to choose the most best VPN service. There are a lot of options, and our rating will help you not to make a mistake here.

We have selected several best options, satisfying the needs of most users. When compiling the rating, the following characteristics of services were taken into account:

• Company location on the world map;
• Experience in the VPN market;
• The level of quality of services provided, based on customer reviews;
• Operating system compatibility;
• Easy to install.

Best VPN Services

VPN is a technology that provides secure connection user with the requested site. The VPN network works as if on top of the regular Internet. Any data transmitted via VPN is encrypted, which makes it invisible to the provider and other interested parties, and also prevents interception and theft of this data. By using a reliable VPN service, you can rest assured about your safety.

Best VPN for Windows

NordVPN presents itself as a service with the most advanced VPN technology. The cost depends on the paid period - the longer, the cheaper. Price for 1 month starts from $2,99 . This is the cheapest offer on the market and the highest quality. Complete security and confidentiality guaranteed network activity client. Nordvpn offers many services besides the standard VPN: double VPN, VPN+Tor and others. Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android and iOS are supported.

NordVPN is the ideal solution to use Telegram messenger. Fast speed, no freezes or connection interruptions.

Advantages:

• Servers are located almost all over the planet;
• Possibility of simultaneous use of 6 devices;
• There are officially no logs;
• High speed;
• Double traffic encryption.

Flaws:

• The official website is not fully translated into Russian;
• The connection speed is not always the same;
• There is no guarantee that no logs will be kept.

NordVPN, registered in Panama, offers one of the best protections for your privacy among out-of-the-box solutions that require minimal user intervention. Installing and configuring a VPN on Windows couldn’t be easier!

The most convenient service

HideMy- one of the most popular VPNs in Russia. The company is registered in Belize. All tariffs have the same set of functions, the price is determined depending on the duration of the subscription (1 month for 379 rubles, access for 1 day for 49 rubles). If you pay for six months or more, you can rent a personal IP. Traffic is unlimited, popular operating systems are supported: Windows, Linux, iOS, Mac and others. The transmitted data is protected, work on the Internet is confidential.

Advantages:

• IP support for 43 countries;
• Money back guarantee;
• 10 years of experience.

Flaws:

• Logs may be kept;
• There is no free period to evaluate the quality of services;
• You cannot renew your subscription, you can only buy a new one.

HideMy was included in the best VPN services because it was developed specifically for the Russian-speaking audience, and therefore was recognized as the most convenient. Thanks to the ability to pay for access for just 1 day, you can small fee experience all the capabilities of the service.

The best service for beginners

– the most memorable nominee in the VPN service rating, which made it a leader. It features a non-standard bear design. You can connect to anywhere in the world with one click on the map, and the bear will dig a tunnel there. The service belongs to the well-known antivirus company McAfee, so there is no need to worry about security and privacy. Reviews note that TunnelBear is a fast VPN service for watching videos.

Advantages:

• Design;
• Good confidentiality;
• Free connection to a network of servers in 20 countries;
• Intuitive interface;
• Universal for all types of OS.

Flaws:

• Speed ​​limit in the free version.

A huge advantage is that it is free to use. However, it has some speed restrictions. To speed things up, you need to subscribe for $4.16.

The best VPN service with advanced features

– good service, which, unlike its previous competitor, has more variable settings. Therefore, it is suitable for advanced users who need programs of this kind for work purposes. In this case, it is recommended to issue paid subscription, which removes restrictions on traffic and speed, and also allows you to block browser advertising and remove tracking from sites. Typically, VPN services offer limited features for free. It's exactly the same here. IN free versions access to 8 countries, 10 GB of traffic is offered. The safest way to download the windscribe VPN service is on the official website of the developer.

Advantages:

• Advanced features for most well-known browsers;
• Large list of countries in the paid version;
• Good anonymity.

Flaws:

• Subscription price – $9;
• Average surfing speed.

Best free option

CyberGhost- a free solution for an anonymous and secure connection to the Internet, including sites blocked in your country. Besides free plan, there are paid ones that provide a significantly increased number of servers, higher speed and other options. The convenience and quality of proprietary software makes the free CyberGhost service no worse than many competitors. Windows, Linux and Apple devices are supported.

Advantages:

• Free;
• Supports IP addresses of more than 10 countries;
• Availability of software for most OS and devices.

Flaws:

• Frequent program freezes;
• The free service does not guarantee maximum security;
• Possible malfunctions;
• The speed is not stable.

CyberGhost VPN is a great way to try surfing the Internet through a VPN without paying a penny.

VyprVPN- the service was founded by Golden Frog, an American company from San Francisco. This VPN is paid: the cost, depending on the tariff, starts at $9.95 per month for use on three devices at the same time, but there is a free demo period for 3 days. In addition to Mac, Android, iOS, Windows, and installation on routers are supported. There are no traffic limits on Vyprvpn. The connection is encrypted, and sites blocked in your country will certainly open.

Advantages:

• High speed;
• Own hosting and network ensuring high confidentiality;
• IP support for 45 countries;
• Proprietary Chameleon protocol that is difficult to track;
• More than 7 years of experience.

Flaws:

• No Russian language;
• High cost of services;
• Advertising emails are possible.

Definitely, VyprVPN is one of the best VPN services on the market. For an affordable price, it offers all the latest and most advanced technologies for data protection and anonymity on the Internet.

The most versatile

PureVPN- a comfortable VPN service from a company registered in Hong Kong. There was a complete lack of keeping statistics and resistance to requests from law enforcement officials. The cost of one month of use is $10.95. PureVPN features rich documentation and detailed instructions for connecting on various OSes and platforms. MacOS, Windows, Android, iOS, routers are supported. Confidentiality of online work is guaranteed.

Advantages:

• IP addresses of more than 140 countries;
• Good speed even through remote servers;
• Many options in addition to the usual traffic encryption and IP spoofing.

Flaws:

• There is no Russian language on the website and in technical support;
• Refunds are not possible in practice;
• No free demo period;
• High price.

PureVPN is suitable for those who are looking for a quality VPN and are not afraid of the English language.

How to choose the best VPN service

When choosing a VPN, focus on your needs:

• For those who are just starting to get acquainted with services of this kind, TunnelBear is perfect.
• To avoid searching for applications with different functionality for your device, download Windscribe.
• To gain access to a site blocked in your state, the free CyberGhost is enough.
• For permanent job over a secure encrypted connection at high speed, choose reliable, time-tested services with serious security capabilities: VyprVPN or NordVPN.
• Do you require no connection logs? Unfortunately, you'll have to take the service provider's word for it; PureVPN, for example, guarantees privacy.
• For those who need a service with Russian-language support, HideMy is ideal.
• All mentioned services support popular operating systems and many devices.

For more information about what a VPN service is, what it should be and what you should pay attention to when choosing it, watch this video:

The best VPN services described will help you surf the Internet safely and without restrictions. VPN is obviously necessary today due to the high number of cyber threats and censorship on the Internet.

Updated 01/20/2020

Finding free VPNs is easy, but choosing reliable services without hidden fees and charges is more difficult. We have taken on this work and are pleased to present you with a cool list of 10 best free VPNs.

Most free VPNs are a classic cheese in a mousetrap. Limited amount of traffic, limited speed and no choice of server locations.

Sometimes it's even more serious and free VPN directly threatens your online privacy. Therefore, we always recommend working with full versions of services.

VPNs from the selected list of free ones will not give you a premium level of service, but guarantee privacy, security and anonymity on the Internet without hidden fees.

Best Free VPNs: Quick Picks

Online privacy is your birthright and you don't have to pay for it. Our top seven free VPN services guarantee protection and anonymous web surfing, completely free for you. There are no tricks here: just download your free VPN app of choice and get online.

At first glance, the choice is between free and paid application obvious. Why pay for what you can get for free? But with VPN apps it's not that simple. After all, there is no such thing as free cheese: you will pay one way or another. When it comes about free VPN services, such a fee could be low speed connections, need to watch annoying advertising, dangerous viruses or even leak of your confidential data!

An obvious ploy of free VPN services

VPN providers use a very simple trick: they limit the free version of your application so much that you will not be able to properly use the necessary services until you switch to paid. Ultimately, when you get tired of the constant buffering, the inability to select a server in the desired country, and the unavailability of services like Netflix, you will most likely choose to pay.

The best free VPN services offer services that are almost as good as paid ones. With this VPN, you don't have to switch to a paid version. We recommend that you choose a free VPN service that allows you to:

• access geo-blocked content (that is, content that is not available in your region);
• enjoy lightning-fast connection speeds;
• be sure that your data is not stored in the service logs.

Best Free VPN Services

What's the catch with free VPN services?

Most free VPN services have limitations: a limited selection of servers, slow connection speeds, or limited traffic. More than 65% of the free VPN services we tested do not allow users to watch TV shows and movies online or work with torrent networks, and some also deliberately slow down connections. Yes, you don’t pay anything, but you are unlikely to be satisfied with such services.

VPN providers make it appear that you get their services for free. At this time, you yourself risk becoming a commodity. Many users have reported to us that free VPN providers were stealing their sensitive data and then sold to third parties.

This raises another thorny question. Even a free VPN service should primarily help users maintain anonymity online, but not all services can actually do this. Unfortunately, many free VPN services themselves pose a serious threat to your security.

Your data can only be sold if it is stored somewhere before. Many free VPN services do not have a no-log security policy, meaning they can track your data, store it and put you at risk. Free services are also notorious sources spam, advertising and viruses.

What we learned about free VPN services

We've tested hundreds of free VPN apps, and some of them were too good to be real. This caused us some suspicion, so we took a closer look at the most tempting offers from providers.

The revealed facts shocked us: it turns out that many free VPN services are registered in China, in a country whose government has passed the strictest internet censorship laws! The privacy policies of some of these providers explicitly state that User data will be stored and transmitted to third parties. This is simply unthinkable! If you want to protect your right to privacy, Stay away from any VPN services registered in China.

There's another important reason to stay away from free VPN services. Businessmen and marketers know that users want to make their life as easy as possible. They assume that since you liked free version, sooner or later you will switch to paid tariff plan.

What's the problem? The best free VPN service is not always the same as the best paid one. And it’s definitely not the best value for money. Many free services offer expensive paid plans, in which you will have access to average in quality and functionality. While other services, without having a free version, offer much better services at a more attractive price. If you stay with your “familiar” provider until the end, it may turn out that you overpay for worse services and get second-rate VPN connections instead of enjoying one of the best services on the market.

1. NordVPN: One of the best premium VPN services for free

Try our #1 VPN free for 30 days with unlimited servers, streaming and torrent access

NordVPN apps are available for the following devices, OS, and web browsers:

• Android, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android TV, Linux, Chrome and Firefox

NordVPN benefits:

• Stable Netflix access so you never miss an important episode
• More than 5,100 servers in 60 countries
• Guaranteed lightning-fast connection speeds
• Advanced security protocols, military-grade data encryption, and kill switch
• Guarantee of complete confidentiality, since the service is registered in a country not included in the “5/9/14 Eyes” intelligence alliances

2. Hotspot Shield

Not needed for payment bank card, fast connection speeds, traffic limit 500 MB per day

3. Windscribe

Generous 10GB data limit, supports torrent networks, always free

Windscribe makes our list of the best free VPNs thanks to generous traffic limit of 10 GB. Every month subscribers receive free 10 GB traffic and can get an additional 5GB by tweeting about the company. You can also get an additional 1 GB of free traffic every month by referring your friends.

Most Windscribe servers support torrent networks.

Both paid and free subscribers have access to all Windscribe features and functionality, including R.O.B.E.R.T mode (ad blocker and malware) . The company has detailed policy privacy, which clearly outlines what data they store and their no-logs policy. Windscribe also boasts masterful data protection and encryption.

Windscribe offers users desktop application and web browser extension. The program interface is friendly and understandable, there are several technical support methods to choose from, including online chat and setup guides.

Windscribe is available on the following platforms:

• macOS, iPhone, Windows, Linux, Chrome and Firefox

Pros of the free version

• Supports torrent networks for unlimited access to your favorite entertainment

Cons of the free version

• Traffic is limited to 10 GB per month (but this is a more generous offer than most others free services)
• Access to the server network is limited compared to the paid version
• While the VPN app is connected, some data is collected

4. ProtonVPN

Limited number of servers, unlimited traffic

Although the ProtonVPN service offers quality premium services, the free VPN version seems rather… shabby. Yes you will unlimited traffic for one device, but you will have problems with intentionally slower connection speed.

5. hide.me

Traffic limit 2 GB, support for torrent networks

hide.me offers simplified but reliable free application . You will receive 2 GB of free traffic every month, all the benefits of hide.me's security protocols, as well as a choice of five countries in which you can connect to servers. Only one of them is in Europe.

Unfortunately, you have will not have access to Netflix from hide.me. At the same time, the service.

The hide.me team truly believes in free services, so they don't limit free subscribers. You will have 24/7 access to technical support and the ability to browse websites without advertising. The hide.me service adheres to no-log policy, securely encrypts data, supports various security protocols, protecting you and your privacy.

hide.me apps are available for the following platforms:

• Android, Windows, macOS, iOS, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Windows Phone, Amazon Fire OS, and can also be installed on a router

Pros of the free version

• Good connection speeds for fast loading of files and websites
• No-logs policy ensures your privacy is protected
• Unlimited free services, meaning you don’t have to upgrade to a paid version over time

Cons of the free version

• Limiting traffic to a modest 2 GB per month
• Access only to a limited number of servers
• Limited traffic = limited number of sites and videos viewed

6. TunnelBear

Reliable protection, free forever, limited traffic - only 500 MB per month

If you're new to VPN services, the free version of TunnelBear is a great option to start with. friendly interface this application that has animated bears. You will be able to connect to servers in 22+ countries and enjoy excellent connection speeds.

TunnelBear takes the anonymity and security of its users very seriously. This VPN service verified by independent companies, uses 256-bit AES encryption and guarantees that none of your the data does not appear in the logs. This means that your identity will be securely hidden.

Free TunnelBear account calculated only 500 MB traffic every month (but you can earn an additional 1 GB by tweeting about the service). This VPN service does not have access to Netflix and other streaming sites, so you won't be able to view geo-blocked content using it.

TunnelBear apps are available for:

• Android, Windows, macOS, iOS, Chrome, Firefox and Opera

Cons of the free version

• No access to streaming services, so no series or music
• Traffic is limited to only 500 MB per month
• Small server network compared to other VPN providers

7. Opera

Unlimited website browsing, free forever

8.Speedify

• 2GB free traffic per month
• 200+ servers in more than 50 countries
• Fast and reliable connection with Channel Bonding technology
• ChaCha encryption provides a combination of speed and strength
• The service is compatible with Windows, macOS, iOS, Android and Linux

Speedify uses VPN protocols with maximum speed. Channel Bonding technology distributes traffic across two virtual connections at once. This increases the speed of operation, but doubles Wi-fi load or consumption mobile traffic .

Speedify passed all DNS leak tests. This means that your real IP is securely hidden, and blocked or geographically restricted resources are accessible to visit. Strict no-logs policy protects your activity history.

Speedify's Amsterdam servers are optimized for torrenting.

2GB free traffic per month quite enough to check your email or go to social media. If you are forced to use unsafe public networks, the service will be your salvation.

Like many free VPN services, Speedify pushes you to buy the premium version. However, the owners did not include advertising in the free version. This is good because it prevents your data from being passed on to advertising networks like Google.

Conclusion:

As a result, we can say that we can find Some good free VPN services. At the same time, needless to say, even the safest free services cannot be called absolutely reliable. The best free services simply cannot compare with the best paid ones.

A premium VPN service will give you access to more reliable protection, and also streaming sites and torrent trackers. Also, unlike most free VPNs, premium services offer unlimited traffic. You will be able to access servers in more countries and enjoy faster connections.

The best thing with such premium services is that you can always try them for free. Most of them have a free trial period and also money back guarantee, if you don't like something. You can make sure that the service suits you 100%.

A huge number of VPN services do the search perfect solution for permanent encryption is difficult. It takes users years to find the best VPN that meets all the basic needs. And as the years go by, money goes away that could have been spent on better connection protection.

Our VPN review includes a wide variety of services, differing in cost, reputation and specialization. A comparative analysis of more than 150 companies allowed us to identify the leaders in each popular category.

When you go online, companies and governments spy on you, tracking your activity and collecting data. A VPN is a tunnel between you and the Internet, hiding you from prying eyes. A good VPN company will keep spies away from you, just like a bodyguard or a bouncer at a bar. A bad VPN company, on the other hand, will help spies continue their surveillance.

So, what criteria should a good VPN service meet? According to Internet users, first of all, he must flawlessly cope with his main tasks:

• Quick change of IP, allowing you to bypass any government blocking. It is important that the received IP does not have a “bad reputation”, as often happens when using low-quality VPNs.
• Ensuring anonymity on the Internet. This is especially true for Russia, since by law providers will be required to preserve all user activity. VPN is the easiest way to avoid ISP recording. But be careful: many companies providing such a service independently collect user data and can release it at the request of government services.
• Ensuring the protection of personal data. A good VPN makes every internet connection more secure—even if you're using a public Wi-Fi network.

If you plan to use a VPN rarely, then you can stop there. But for regular users of VPN services, other parameters are also important:

• Speed. When you receive an IP from your ISP, your connection speed is limited only by the technical capabilities of the connection. In the case of a VPN, the quality of the third party’s equipment, as well as the network load, is of great importance. If you pay monthly for your IP, you probably don't want your Internet connection to be artificially slowed down.
• Traffic volumes. Even though it's already 2017, not all VPN services offer unlimited traffic, which can be disappointing. In addition, low monthly traffic is the bane of free VPNs. Insufficient volumes force users to change 8-10 services in 30 calendar days.
• Additional features. Many VPN users value the ability to customize the service to their liking. Inconvenient and meager “symbolic” settings become a big drawback, especially if the service cannot offer much in terms of basic parameters.
• Simplicity and conciseness of the interface. It seems that this point must contradict the previous one - but this is fundamentally wrong. Putting together a convenient, functional and not overloaded interface is not an easy task. Perhaps this is why many VPN owners have given up on it. But as a result, users are forced to study instructions for half an hour in order to change a couple of basic parameters.
• Compatibility. Not all of us change our operating system every time the next Windows comes out. Among VPN users, there are predictably many connoisseurs of non-standard hardware and UNIX-like operating systems. Surprisingly, not all servers noticed this trend and adapted to it. The same applies to available Internet protocols: it’s good if the service does not consider itself smarter than the user and does not try to limit you in choosing one or two options.
• Flexible pricing policy. It’s great when a service provides all theoretically possible benefits. But it's not good if it forces users to pay for features they'll never need. Each of us has our own “ceiling”: some do not need more than 500 GB per month, but they need stronger encryption. Some would like support for all their gadgets, but are sincerely indifferent to additional activity recording protections. If the user can choose his own “package,” then the monthly price is reduced, while the consumer receives exactly what he wanted. Otherwise, a VPN may become too expensive.

I would like to set general criteria for paid and free services, but for technical reasons this is impossible. If you decide not to pay for a VPN, you will be forced to face all the disadvantages of the “free cheese”, be it advertising, a ridiculous amount of monthly traffic, or slow speed loading. Another piece of evidence was the Hola scandal in 2015: then it turned out that the largest free peer-to-peer network was using users’ Internet connections for commercial purposes, about which the Kaspersky Lab team promptly warned Russian-speaking users. As a result, many clients refused the services of an unscrupulous company, and those who hoped for the best were forced to participate in another DDOS attack, which Hola has become notorious for in the last couple of years.

Finding the Best VPN

To find the best VPN, we had to test over 150 services and check user reviews for them. Already at this stage, many participants were disqualified for the following reasons:

• Insufficient connection security. As it turns out, not all VPNs are ready to truly provide users with the declared anonymity. The ceiling of many popular services is access to blocked sites and minimal data encryption. All this can be obtained for free, without leaving any unnecessary traces on the Internet.
• Lack of versatility. Suppose there is an ideal VPN extension for Chrome: free, fast and seemingly safe. It has only two drawbacks: firstly, it is only suitable for Chrome, and if you need a VPN for Firefox, you will have to look for alternative options. Secondly, it is technically unable to plug all of the security holes in the aforementioned Chrome, simply due to the way it is designed. If a service does not give the user choice, it is not suitable for us.
• Inconsistency of the services provided with advertising promises. Yes, we understand that in advertising “all means are fair.” But it would be better if the owners of the service honestly described the available capabilities, rather than attribute to themselves advantages that in reality they do not possess.
• Unfair behavior of companies in difficult situations and conflicts. We're supposed to be looking for the best vpn to protect our data, not hand it over to the government on a silver platter. Unfortunately, many services willingly provide information about users to the state upon the first request, citing current legislation. Then they try to hush up the incident, while companies continue to provide data “protection” services. Of course, such services will always find new clients, because not everyone has the time and energy to look for all the scandals associated with the service provider. But our VPN review does not include such violators.

When we sifted out all the “unsuitable” representatives, it turned out that there were significantly fewer applicants for the first places than it seemed at the beginning. Without further delay, we present the rankings of the best VPNs in their respective areas.

Best VPN service

Having compared more than 150 services providing VPN services, we have identified the undisputed leader that most fully meets all quality criteria: . In January 2019, PIA received another award for excellent service: Best Value according to the VPN Service Providers blog, which reviews and reviews all major VPNs. This service operates in the USA, making it not subject to mandatory data retention laws. The speed of VPN gateways reaches several gigabits, so the user does not even notice the difference when switching to a dedicated IP. A simple connection takes no more than a couple of seconds, and flexible settings allow you to set up the VPN of your dreams. Or entrust everything to automation - whichever is more convenient for you.

In the light recent actions On the part of Roskomnadzor, the Obzorio team re-checked the VPN services listed in this rating to identify the “Best VPN for Telegram”. And we are forced to admit that the VPN “Private Internet Access”, previously chosen as the Best, has only strengthened its position. We declare with full responsibility that the Best VPN for Telegram is Private Internet Access.

Among the undeniable advantages of the server:

• Complete anonymity. The difference between Private Internet Access is that after using it, no data remains at all. This advantage is provided by complex, branched functionality, which competitors have yet to develop. Unlike other services, Private Internet Access does not even leave so-called “circles on the water”, through which professionals collect data on the activity and identities of anonymous users.
• No subscriber tracking. The service does not save any data, prompting the user to do the same. Even payment can be made anonymously. When Private Internet Access says that it does not store data about its clients, it means even basic information that any other service would keep on its servers without any treacherous intentions.
• Maximum number of encryption methods. The more methods and protocols are available, the lower the likelihood of a hacker attack. The server itself recommends using AES 128, SHA1 and RSA2048.
• Huge list of available output servers (more than 1000, in 10 countries). Server selection can be done either manually or automatically.
• Supports most existing gadgets and operating systems . You can use Private Internet Access on each of your devices: a paid subscription allows you to connect five computers (tablets, smartphones), regardless of their technical features and geographical location.
• Very nice price. You can get complete anonymity, the highest data transfer speed in its segment and maximum protection from hacker attacks for five devices for only $6.95 per month. When purchasing access for a year, the monthly price becomes completely “ridiculous”: $3.33 per month, less than in the “economy” segment.

Offers premium quality protection, while adhering to all the obligations stated in the advertisement and is always ready for dialogue with the user. His impeccable reputation has made him the undisputed leader of today's ratings.

Place of Honor

Statistically, users are much more likely to use a VPN for Windows than to secure their connection on other operating systems. This is due to the fact that the majority prefer to use exclusively the “home” Internet, leaving their smartphones only for instant messengers and official social network applications.

The top VPN for the Windows OS family deservedly leads. This service has the following advantages:

• Low subscription cost. Tariff plans start from $2.75 in 1 month. This is the best offer on the VPN market.
• High number of servers (3500 in 60 countries). Each server provides excellent connection speed.
• Wide range of encryption protocols. The service will automatically select the optimal settings for Windows, but also allows you to select the protocol manually.
• Complete absence of logs. Nordvpn does not record any user data and does not provide it when requested by authorities since it is under the jurisdiction of Panama.

One of the main competitive advantages NordVPN – low subscription cost with a wide range of available services. By paying for your connection, you can connect up to 6 devices (for example, the whole family). If you are only going to use Windows, then NordVPN is best choice both in price and quality.

Alternative

If it’s not money that’s important to you, but the “omnivorousness” of the service, then pay attention to. This “pioneer” is one of the oldest VPNs and works better than many “newbies”. Its main advantages:

• Huge list of supported devices. If you are a connoisseur of “exotic” things (for example, you prefer Blackberry smartphones or use a router based on DD-WRT), then you have probably already noticed that searching for suitable programs can become a real torture. Purevpn can handle everything: the service annually expands its capabilities, adding more and more new titles to the collection.
• Support for obsolete hardware and old operating systems. If you prefer early Windows versions, then this option is for you.
• Excellent technical performance. Purevpn does not limit speed or traffic, protects ID when reconnecting, and provides 24/7 technical support.

Purevpn may not be accessible to certain segments of users due to its slightly steep price ($143.40 for a year), and there is no free version. If you are still interested in this service, we advise you not to take an annual subscription right away and wait for seasonal discounts - then the price may drop to a more “increasing” $50.

Best VPN for Windows

Came very close to the winner in his category Hidemy: the most accessible service for Windows. With an annual subscription, a month will cost a Russian user only 126 rubles, while all the popular functions are present in full:

• Availability software for beginners Windows users and flexible settings for advanced users. The service interface is as friendly as possible for beginners. There's none of the congestion that plagues even the best VPNs, but you can still customize everything to your liking.
• No user database. To gain access to all the features of the service, just use the code sent by email.
• Free testing day. HideMy invites you to try out all the available options and form your own impression of the service - and only after that decide to subscribe.

In terms of the number of servers, the company is slightly inferior to its competitors: there are only 74 of them. But they are located in 35 countries around the world, so absolute anonymity and maximum accessibility of blocked sites are guaranteed.

Alternative

If you prefer free encryption, then the best choice for you will be the popular Cyber ​​Ghost. This free VPN service operates under Romanian law, so Russian authorities will not be able to obtain your data even upon an official request. The following features distinguish the service from its competitors:

• The most functional free version. A network with more than 500 proxies, a flexible masking system, no restrictions on traffic and speed - we are used to getting all this only by subscription. Of course, you won’t be given unlimited access to the secure Internet, but the system guarantees three hours of uninterrupted connection. After this period has expired, you will be prompted to connect again.
• Convenient online proxy browser. The three-server limit may be a nuisance, but you still get the same high level of protection—with simple management.
• High level of data protection. Cyber ​​Ghost not only deletes your data, but also hides you from possible observers.

This is also best service VPN according to Freedomhacker: Internet security pioneers note that Cyber ​​Ghost has managed to maintain the approach of a small team of individuals helping to protect the Internet, despite the fact that the company has long grown to the size of a corporation. Experts positively noted the possibility of deep customization of the service, but only experienced users can use it.

Among the disadvantages of the system is the somewhat inflated annual price for a paid subscription. For $70, the user will get rid of advertising and will be able to use applications for mobile phones. To “distribute” a VPN to several devices (up to 5), you will have to pay an additional $40 per year. Is it worth it? Everyone decides for themselves. But as a free VPN, this service currently has no competitors.

Best VPN for Android Devices

When choosing the leading VPN for Android, we completely distanced ourselves from the results of the “general” analysis. Encryption applications for phones work differently, and therefore all the technical features of VPN services that are relevant for PCs cease to matter. The undisputed leader in our rating is ExpressVPN, which provides absolute anonymity when surfing from a smartphone or tablet. Among the advantages of the VPN version for Android:

• Dedicated apps for each device type. Unlike its competitors, ExpressVPN treats secure mobile browsing as a core service rather than an add-on. This is noticeable in the most serious implementation. Instead of offering a single solution hastily optimized for different versions of popular gadgets, the service provides original applications that provide better protection specifically for your type of device.
• Absolute confidentiality. Security problems on Android are a headache for owners. But ExpressVPN has managed to cover all known vulnerabilities, so your internet connection is truly secure. The service also does not store user data, which means it will not be able to transfer it to the authorities even upon legal request.
• Attentive technical support. In the case of a smartphone, problems arise much more often than when using a PC - this applies to any “general” services. ExpressVPN makes up for this hassle with superior service technical support. At any time of the day or night, a specialist in a chat, on a website or forum will answer your question. They will also help you set up the most convenient connection.

If you don't know which VPN is better choose for your phone, feel free to choose ExpressVPN. You will get maximum quality for affordable money. A basic subscription allows you to “share” the service on any three devices.

Best VPN For Mac

The undisputed leader in this category is Vyprvpn. It's optimized for Mac and iOS devices, although it delivers excellent performance on other devices as well. The following indicators allowed the service to leave competitors far behind:

• Better Mac integration. Most popular servers are designed for Windows, despite supporting MacOS, or require too many additional steps to optimize the VPN for your device. But users choose Mac for its simplicity and concise interface, and only Vyprvpn managed to inherit these “family” features.
• The best internet connection in the world. Vyprvpn is ahead of its competitors both in terms of speed and connection reliability.
• User-friendly design and functionality. If you are new to anonymous connection issues, then the client will choose for you optimal parameters. If you know exactly what you want from your VPN, then flexible, most conveniently located settings are at your service.

At the moment, Vyprvpn is the best VPN for Mac, and no progress in this area is expected in the coming years. To the great satisfaction of users, the service does not exploit its position and does not inflate prices: a basic subscription will cost $5 per month (unlimited traffic on one connection and one firewall), and the most “advanced” – Premier – will cost $10, while you will be protected by everything up-to-date firewalls, and unlimited traffic will be available for three devices of any type.

Final Thoughts

When choosing a VPN, it is better to focus not on loud advertising calls, but on the real tasks for which this service is purchased. There are no ideal services, but there are companies that come quite close to the threshold of flawlessness - each in its own niche.

If you are going to use VPN from only one device, then you can choose a company that specializes in Windows protection, MacOS or Android. By choosing the best VPN in your area, you'll get the best results for less money. But if you are the happy owner of a wide variety of gadgets (and you want to protect each of them), then it is better to give preference to a more universal service and turn a blind eye to minor imperfections.