Free VPNs can secure your browsing and protect your data, but only a few are truly safe. Many free apps leak personal information or log your web activity. After reviewing 150 free VPNs, only a handful passed our privacy and performance standards.
The best free VPN overall is Proton VPN. It offers unlimited data, high security, and zero tracking. Windscribe ranks second for its ability to bypass geo-blocks, while Hotspot Shield tops the list for speed.
Why You Need a Free VPN
A virtual private network encrypts your internet connection, hiding your IP address from trackers, ISPs, and hackers. Reliable free VPNs can:
- Secure your data on public Wi-Fi.
- Protect your identity from surveillance.
- Unblock geo-restricted content.
However, not all free VPNs are safe. Studies show that 88% of free VPN apps leak identifiable data, and many log browsing history for profit.
Here are the 7 best free VPNs that deliver real security and usability:
1. Proton VPN – Best Overall Free VPN
Proton VPN stands out for its unlimited bandwidth and strong encryption. It doesn’t track or log user activity and operates from Switzerland, a privacy-friendly country.
Pros
- Unlimited data.
- No registration needed.
- Over 2,000 fast servers.
- Kill switch protection.
Cons
- Only 5 server locations.
- No P2P or streaming support.
Proton VPN is the only free VPN you can safely keep on all the time without worrying about limits or logs.
2. Windscribe – Best for Streaming
Windscribe provides 10GB monthly data and free servers in 10 countries. It unblocks services like Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and HBO Max.
Pros
- Unblocks multiple Netflix libraries.
- Minimal logs and strong encryption.
- Works in restricted regions.
Cons
- 10GB data limit.
- No live chat support.
Windscribe’s consistent streaming access and solid privacy make it a great second choice.
3. Hotspot Shield Basic – Fastest Free VPN
Hotspot Shield offers unlimited data and the fastest speeds among all free VPNs tested. It supports torrenting and includes a built-in malware blocker.
Pros
- Blazing-fast speeds.
- Unlimited data.
- P2P support.
- No registration required.
Cons
- Logs some user data.
- Lacks advanced privacy controls.
Hotspot Shield is best for casual users who prioritize speed and convenience over complete anonymity.
4. PrivadoVPN – Best Free VPN for Streaming and Torrenting
PrivadoVPN allows access to US Netflix, HBO Max, and Disney+. It supports unrestricted torrenting on all free servers.
Pros
- 11 countries available.
- No identifiable logs.
- Strong AES-256 encryption.
Cons
- 10GB monthly data limit.
- Lacks browser extensions.
If you want a free VPN that works with major streaming services, PrivadoVPN is a solid option.
5. Hide.me – Best for Censorship Resistance
Hide.me is one of the few free VPNs that still work in highly censored regions like China. It doesn’t log user data and offers unlimited data.
Pros
- Works in restricted countries.
- No registration needed.
- Strong encryption.
Cons
- Speed limited to 2Mbps.
- Only 7 server locations.
Hide.me is great for maintaining access in restrictive regions, though slower speeds may limit heavy use.
6. ZoogVPN – Simple and Secure for Beginners
ZoogVPN offers 10GB monthly data and a no-logs policy. It’s easy to set up and designed for users new to VPNs.
Pros
- No payment required.
- Good privacy protection.
- Fast nearby speeds.
Cons
- Only 3 free servers.
- No streaming support.
ZoogVPN is ideal for light browsing and beginners who value simplicity.
7. TunnelBear – Most Server Locations
TunnelBear gives you 2GB monthly data and servers in 47 countries. It’s user-friendly and supports Netflix, HBO Max, and BBC iPlayer.
Pros
- Large server network.
- Secure and private.
- Easy to use.
Cons
- 2GB data cap.
- Occasional connection drops.
TunnelBear’s wide coverage makes it a good travel companion for quick, secure browsing.
How to Choose a Safe Free VPN
A reliable free VPN should:
- Use AES-256 encryption and secure protocols like OpenVPN or WireGuard.
- Include a kill switch to protect your IP during drops.
- Maintain a verified no-logs policy.
- Provide reasonable speeds and data limits.
Avoid VPNs that request excessive permissions or show intrusive ads.
While no free VPN can fully match premium options, Proton VPN, Windscribe, and Hotspot Shield offer the best mix of privacy, speed, and usability. For long-term protection, consider upgrading to a paid VPN for unlimited data, faster speeds, and stronger privacy.
