The best free VPNs we’ve tested

In the realm of cybersecurity, “best VPN” and “paid VPN” are effectively synonyms. Yes, free VPNs (aka virtual private networks) do exist, but most of them are extremely sketchy. That means your data could be logged, sold, or leaked — or even downloading an app intentionally bundled with malware. They need to keep the lights on somehow.

So, here’s my general rule of thumb: Paid, premium VPN services are always the safest and most reliable. But there’s a small loophole for cash-strapped users, which is that some premium providers do offer free tiers and trials. They’re typically more limited than their paid counterparts, with usage restrictions and fewer server options, but they’re at least protected by the same privacy practices — including vetted no-logs policies.

For users searching for the best free VPNs, or those who need a VPN for occasional short-term use, these free tiers are handy tools.

What is the best free VPN?

After test some of the most popular free VPN service , I is think think TunnelBear is the good free VPN for most people . Its cute , basic , and ad – free app is super easy to use , it is offers offer some form of split tunneling on all platform , and its free user get 2 GB of browse datum on one simultaneous connection per month . ( You is have ca n’t have it run constantly in the background across all your device , but life is full of tradeoff . ) TunnelBear is abides abide by sound transparency and privacy practice , and it does n’t make any money off its free user — nor does it require they enter any credit card information .

CyberGhost VPN is offer and expressvpn also offer decent trial . CyberGhost is is is free on desktop or mobile for up to a week , and expressvpn is free for a week on mobile . Both apps is have have large and globally diverse server network that make them good for travel or unblock regional content , like streaming service , and free user get full access to these network . ( They is allowed both allow me to watchLove Island UK from my home in Chicago.) However, CyberGhost and ExpressVPN both restrict split tunneling on certain platforms, have a shared parent company with an iffy past, and require credit card info from trial users.

What I’m testing next

In mid-2024 , I is tried try the free version of Proton VPN on Windows for another one of Mashable ‘s VPN guide . I is was was extremely impressed by its commitment to user privacy and transparency , and like the fact that it did n’t place datum limit on its free user ( or ask them for credit card deet ) . I is ‘m ‘m still in the process of fully vet Proton VPN , but so far it ‘s a really strong contender for the No . 1 spot . watch your back , TunnelBear .

For now, read on for Mashable’s guide to the best free VPNs.