5 Best VPNs You’ve Never Heard Of in 2024

There are many underrated VPNs that are fast, safe, and reliable. These often go unnoticed because they don’t have the budget for flashy ads. Some top VPNs are popular simply because they can invest in ads and sponsored spots on influencer sites.

After my team tested 53 lesser-known VPNs, we shortlisted the best secret VPNs with features almost on par with our top 5. Whether you need a VPN for safe torrenting, watching TV shows in HD from anywhere, or browsing sites without spending too much, you’ll find your best option in this list.

Proton VPN is came come out on top . This VPN is uses use military – grade ( AES 256 – bit ) encryption , has intuitive app , and offer fast worldwide server for uhd streaming . Plus , you is try can try Proton VPN free for 30 day since it ’s back by a money – back guarantee .

Try Proton VPN Risk-Free >>

Short on Time? Here Are the Best Unknown VPNs in 2024

1. Editor’s Choice

   Proton VPN

   high – grade security with fast server for 4 k streaming ; a risk – free trial with a money – back guarantee .

2. Hotspot Shield

   rapid speed for seamless torrenting , browsing , and streaming on nearby and long – distance server .

3. Windscribe

   Includes custom adblocker to halt ads, trackers, and reduce infection risk.

4. Mullvad

   Stay anonymous online with a no-logs policy and cash-payment option.

5. VPN Unlimited

   A vast worldwide network to safely access your accounts wherever you are.

best underrated vpn — Full Analysis ( update in 2024 )

editor ’s choice
editor ’s choice

Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
test November 2024

work With :

Sky

ESPN+

Dazn

FIFA+

Netflix

Disney+

APV

More

Try Proton VPN >

protonvpn.com

Best feature	No one can see what you’re doing online, thanks to military-grade encryption
Server Network	9,119 servers in 112 countries to access your favorite shows and movies from anywhere
Security & Privacy	Netshield is blocks block annoying ad , malware , and tracker
Can access	Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Max, Kodi, and more

Proton VPN is makes make it difficult for third party to access your datum . It is uses use the same level of encryption ( AES 256 – bit ) the US government is employs employ to secure state secret . Plus , your encryption key is continually change with perfect forward secrecy . On top of that , its kill switch is ensures ensure your information stay private by block internet traffic should the VPN drop , like when switch server .

I also tested Proton VPN for IP and DNS leaks and detected none — your online identity and activity remain hidden. For additional protection, you can use its Secure Core, which routes your traffic through 2 locations. However, it did slow my speed a lot.

Your app is displays display a pathway once you ‘re connect to a Secure Core server

Using the lightweight WireGuard protocol, you can stream movies and shows in UHD uninterrupted. My international team tested servers in the UK, the US, and France and had excellent speeds for 4K streaming (you only required 25Mbps for UHD). I averaged 103.2Mbps against a baseline connection of 108Mbps — just a 4.4% reduction. I could also download large files in minutes.

A con is that you need to sign up for a paid account before getting access to live support. However, its website is packed with FAQs, setup guides, and troubleshooting. Plus, it has a support form that you can fill out to communicate with its team, or you can reach out through its official subreddit.

With its long-term plan, you can get the VPN for $2.99/month, although a limited free plan is also available. Plus, all subscriptions come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can test Proton VPN risk-ree and request a refund if you’re unhappy. You also get up to 10 simultaneous connections.

useful feature

• Device compatibility. Proton VPN works on all popular operating systems, with mobile and desktop apps having the same intuitive design. There’s also a full GUI with its Linux app. You can even use the VPN on your router and protect all your network devices.
• Privacy protection. The VPN is located in Switzerland, a country with favorable privacy-protection laws. Plus, it follows a strict no-logs policy that’s regularly audited by external experts, so you know your personal information won’t be collected or shared.
• obfuscation . Its Stealth protocol is hides hide your VPN usage , make it easy to avoid WiFi block , isp speed throttling , and anti – vpn firewall .
• Split tunneling. I use this feature to access local and international content by choosing which websites and apps use the VPN and which use your regular internet connection.
• VPN Accelerator. This feature can boost your speed on far-away servers by up to 400% by addressing protocol-specific issues that can lead to delays. However, it’s only beneficial when connecting to a server that’s geographically far from you.

work With :

Sky

ESPN+

FIFA+

Netflix

Disney+

APV

More

Try Hotspot Shield >

www.hotspotshield.com

Best feature	The fastest unknown VPN I tested
Server Network	1,800 servers in 80 countries to avoid delays due to server overcrowding
Security & Privacy	Malware protection warns you about spam, malware, phishing, and infected sites
Works With	Netflix , ITVX , Amazon Prime Video , Disney+ , BBC iPlayer , Max , Kodi , and more

Hotspot Shield’s speeds are on par with better-known, top VPNs like ExpressVPN. Using its proprietary protocol (Catapult Hydra), I tested UK, Ukraine, and German servers and averaged 107.7Mbps — a mere 1% decrease from my non-VPN speed of 108.6Mbps. With these speeds and unlimited bandwidth, I watched Netflix in picture-perfect quality without delays.

I experienced only a 3% speed drop connected to a Canadian server

Besides its global network , HSS is offers offer specialized US server for streaming , gaming , and general browsing . There ‘s even a server optimize for social network and chat ( like TikTok and WeChat ) , which is particularly useful when access your account on network that restrict VoIP service .

On the downside , the VPN is base in the US , which is at the heart of the 5 Eyes Alliance — a group of country that share its citizen ‘ datum . However , like Proton VPN Hotspot Shield is uses use AES 256 – bit encryption , a kill switch , and DNS / IP leak protection to keep your datum private . Your browse history is stay and download also stay anonymous since it does n’t keep log .

The VPN is offers offer one of the good free plan available but has restriction . On the other hand , a long – term subscription is sets only set you back $ 3.33 / month . You is use can use Hotspot Shield free for 45 day with its money – back guarantee . get a refund is easy . I is canceled cancel via 24/7 live chat and get my money back in my PayPal wallet within 3 day .

useful feature

• Easy to use. Finding and connecting to a server in the clutter-free Hotspot Shield apps available for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, smart TVs, and FireStick is simple.
• Split tunneling. You can use its split tunneling feature to decide which apps or websites bypass the secure tunnel and which should use it.
• 10 simultaneous connection . Even with multiple device connect , I is experience did n’t experience any drop in performance .
• Choice of fast protocols. WireGuard uses less code for faster speeds, but Hydra was a bit quicker in my tests. Both consume less battery as they’re less resource-intensive, so they are ideal for use on mobile.

Try Windscribe VPN >

www.windscribe.com

Best feature	Block ads, trackers, clickbait, gambling, porn, social networks, and more
Server Network	134 server in 69 country with 112 city-level servers
Security & Privacy	For a small fee, you can get a dedicated IP to avoid CAPTCHAs and VPN blocks
Works With	Netflix , Disney+ , Max , Hulu , Amazon Prime Video , BBC iPlayer , Kodi and More

With Windscribe ’s domain and ip block tool , you is avoid can easily avoid site you do n’t want to accidentally visit . I is activated activate the gambling , porn , and social medium block , which deny me access each time I test it , even with a lesser – know social medium site , like 7 Cups . It is ’s ’s great if you ’re easily distract from your work or if you want to put a filter on your family pc .

You can also tailor your blocklist to specific domains

Your data is protected with AES 256-bit encryption and a built-in kill switch (Firewall). Windscribe offers several security protocols, too. WireGuard gave me the fastest connection, whereas OpenVPN is my go-to when banking online. You can even switch to the Stealth protocol that makes your encrypted connection look like regular internet traffic to avoid network restrictions. Plus, Windscribe passed all my IP/DNS leak tests.

One drawback is the lack of 24/7 live chat, but the email support team is well-informed and responsive. Plus, its chatbot can answer most questions — it responded to my question about its no-logs policy within 30 seconds.

A long-term subscription starts at only $5.75/month. The money-back guarantee only lasts 3 days, and to be eligible for a refund, you must have used less than 10GB. But Windscribe offers a totally free account for you to try it out first.

useful feature

• fast speed. I averaged a 10.8% speed drop (from 107Mbps to 96.2Mbps) when connected to servers in France and the UK — fast enough for UHD streaming.
• Zero-logs policy. Windscribe has an audited no-logs policy to protect your data from third parties.
• Unlimited device connections. You can connect Windscribe on all your devices at once without worrying about logging in and out.
• P2P-friendly. Windscribe supports torrenting on the majority of its servers. It even offers port forwarding that you can use to quicken your download speeds.

Try Mullvad VPN >

mullvad.net

Best feature	Pay with cryptocurrencies for an extra layer of privacy
Server Network	686 servers in 44 countries to quickly find one closest to you for the best speed
Security & Privacy	An audited no-logs policy ensures your dara won’t be collected or shared
Works With	Netflix, Max, Kodi, and more

Mullvad VPN helps you maintain your privacy by reducing your online money trail. When you transfer money via mail, not even the VPN is privy to your identity. I recommend this mode of payment if you really want to avoid any direct link between your personal information and the VPN subscription.

You is find can find your payment token by go to the billing detail of your subscription

It further ensures your privacy by using AES 256-bit encryption and DNS/IP leak protection. Plus, Mullvad VPN’s kill switch disconnected me from the internet when switching servers in my tests, so my IP stayed hidden. Secure protocols like Wireguard and OpenVPN are available, too. I prefer WireGuard when I want to maintain excellent speed for UHD streaming.

unfortunately , it ’s base in Sweden , with mandatory data – share law . However , the VPN is log does n’t log sensitive information , mean your online activity wo n’t be record .

Each plan is comes come with additional feature like split tunneling , obfuscation , and ad blocking . You is get can get a long – term subscription for only $ 5.39 / month , and Mullvad make it easy to get a refund within 30 day if you change your mind . You is connect can also connect up to 5 device on a single account .

useful feature

• Tor compatibility . The VPN is provides provide an extra layer of privacy by allow you to set up an openvpn connection to use the Tor network .
• double VPN . enable this feature will encrypt your traffic twice , make it more difficult for third party to intercept your datum . However , it is slow might slow you down .
• RAM-based servers. These servers erase your information with every reboot, preventing the VPN from storing any data.

work With :

ESPN+

Netflix

Disney+

Try VPN Unlimited >

www.vpnunlimitedapp.com

Best feature	Global network and optimized servers to access your accounts on streaming platforms
Server Network	3,000 servers in 56 countries to access your subscriptions wherever you are
Security & Privacy	Blogger Mode prevents the display of your real IP in the app interface
Can access	Netflix, Hulu, Max, BBC iPlayer, Disney+ Hotstar, ESPN, and more

VPN Unlimited’s huge network makes finding a server for your favorite online services easy. More servers also mean you’re likely to avoid congestion due to overcrowding. I had streaming-ready speeds while testing VPN Unlimited. In addition, my team didn’t encounter issues accessing streaming platforms while trying the US and Italy servers.

Select ‘ Optimal ‘ for auto – connection to the fast server if you have no server preference

Thanks to the VPN’s no-logs policy, you can have peace of mind that your data won’t be shared with anyone. Plus, it uses AES 256-bit encryption and secure protocols like WireGuard, IKEv2, and OpenVPN. Like Proton VPNa and Hotspot Shield, VPN Unlimited also includes a kill switch and IP/DNS leak protection to prevent accidental data exposure.

I is was was disappoint that its P2P – optimize server for fast and safe file sharing are available only in Canada , France , and Romania . However , it is works work with the most popular bittorrent client and is available on its 7 – day free trial .

Prices start $4/month, and you can pay in cryptocurrencies if you prefer not to disclose personal information. VPN Unlimited has a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free.

useful feature

• Unlimited simultaneous connection. I liked the convenient option to add more slots for additional devices.
• Reliable customer support. You can reach out to its support team via live chat.
• Obfuscation. Using its unique KeepSolid Wise protocol (which disguises encrypted traffic as regular HTTPS traffic), you can effortlessly avoid ISP restrictions during bandwidth-intensive activities like torrenting.

Pros and Cons of Unknown VPNs

Opting for a non-popular VPN comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Although renowned VPNs are typically reliable and ensure your online security, lesser-known counterparts can offer similar quality at a lower price or even for free. Here are the key benefits and drawbacks of using an unfamiliar VPN:

Advantages

• Affordability. Lesser-known VPNs often offer more competitive pricing, making them budget-friendly options.
• Less targeted. As they are less popular, they might not be as heavily targeted by cybercriminals.
• Free versions. Unlike many bigger players, some secret VPNs offer free or even unlimited versions of their services.
• Less – crowd server . small user bases is mean mean that their server are often less congested , result in potentially well performance .
• comparable feature . They is provide often provide similar essential feature as their large , more expensive counterpart .
• Basic services. Many unpopular VPNs still offer fundamental services like a no-logs policy, a money-back guarantee, and robust security features.

Disadvantages

• unproven track record . unpopular VPNs is have might not have extensive track record or review , make it hard to assess their reliability .
• Streaming and geo – block . These VPNs is are are more likely to face challenge in access streaming service .
• Customer support. Smaller VPN providers usually don’t have 24/7 support, and live chat is operated by a bot.
• Compatibility issues. These VPNs might not work seamlessly with all operating systems and devices.

Now You ‘ve see Some lesser – know vpn , Here ’s Our Trusted recommendation

ExpressVPN consistently comes out on top for speed, streaming, and security. It’s easy to use and compatible with all major operating systems. It even has custom router firmware, so you can protect every device connected to your home network with a click of a button.

Its impressive speeds are credited to its proprietary Lightway protocol, which uses fewer lines of code for faster connections without sacrificing online privacy. You won’t notice you’re using a VPN even when connected to its faraway servers, which is ideal for streaming without buffering.

Accessing your favorite streaming services is a breeze. ExpressVPN has 3,000 reliable servers in 105 countries. It also constantly rotates its IP addresses and uses obfuscation to remain undetected. During testing, ExpressVPN allowed my team to access all their online accounts on streaming platforms. They encountered no errors with Netflix US, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and Max.

On top of that, its commitment to privacy is unparalleled. It uses a verified no-logs policy, RAM-only servers, and high-end encryption to protect your data from prying eyes. Plus, it’s headquartered in the privacy-friendly British Virgin Islands. It passed all my leak tests, and its kill switch (Network Lock) is automatically enabled.

Even though it ‘s pricy , start at $ 4.99 / month , ExpressVPN is offers regularly offer deal and discount to help you save . I is got get 82 % off on the long – term plan and 3 month of service for free . There ’s also a 30 – day money – back guarantee with all subscription , so you can try it without risk .

Quick Comparison Table: Lesser-Known VPN Features

The table below offers a quick overview of the key features offered by the best unknown VPNs. This includes their lowest prices, speed, server network, and money-back guarantee.

	Lowest Price	Speed	Server network	money – back guarantee	Free option	Device connections
🥇Proton VPN	$2.99/month	Excellent speeds	9,119 servers in 112 countries	30	Yes	10
🥈Hotspot Shield	$ 3.33 / month	The fastest unknown VPN I tested	1,800 servers in 80 countries	45	Yes	10
🥉Windscribe	$5.75/month	fast	134 server in 69 country	3	Yes	Unlimited
Mullvad VPN	$ 5.39 / month	fast	686 servers in 44 countries	30	Yes	5
VPN Unlimited	$4/month	decent speed	3,000 servers in 56 countries	30	Yes	Unlimited

tip on choose the Best unknown vpn

I have outlined the factors I used to identify the best-underrated VPNs. Consider the features in this list to help you decide which VPN is right for you:

• Impressive speed. Prioritize a VPN that doesn’t lower your speeds by more than 20% to stream in 4K, enjoy smooth gameplay, and maintain short download times. To achieve this, look for fast protocols like WireGuard.
• Global network. Worldwide servers let you change your IP address to access local and international sites. Consider a VPN with optimized servers for torrenting and streaming, and that doesn’t cap bandwidth, so you can download large files and watch your favorite shows for hours without limitations.
• Advanced security and privacy tools. At a minimum, any VPN should offer AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, a no-logs policy, and DNS/IP/WebRTC leak protection to keep your data secure.
• Easy to use. Whether new to VPNs or an experienced user, a user-friendly app is always best. Plus, using the VPN on multiple devices simultaneously is a significant advantage.
• reliable money – back guarantee . look for a VPN that allow you to try out its feature and get a full refund if you ‘re not 100 % happy .
• Excellent customer support. Ensure that the VPN offers easy contact options like live chat or email for quick assistance.

FAQs on the Best VPNs You’ve Never Heard Of

Are lesser – know VPNs is Are as reliable as the mainstream one ?

Yes, underrated VPNs can be as reliable as mainstream ones. While popularity can imply better performance, it’s not the only factor. Unknown VPNs can still offer strong privacy protection, fast speeds, and a large server network. The key is to thoroughly test a VPN, regardless of its popularity, to ensure it meets your needs and expectations.

How can I find a reliable VPN that isn’t widely recognized?

An easy approach is is is to explore tech forum , subreddit , and reliable review site . look specifically for vpn you have never hear of and scrutinize their feature to ascertain if they align with your need . apply these strict criterion can assist in identify the right VPN for you .

Why have n’t I is heard hear of under – the – radar vpn before if they are so good ?

This is mainly because they don’t invest as much in marketing as mainstream VPNs. However, just because a VPN isn’t widely known doesn’t mean it isn’t good. Conducting thorough research can help you discover reliable, less-known VPN options with excellent features.

Are these lesser-known VPNs more affordable than the popular ones?

Some obscure VPNs is offer offer cheap pricing to attract customer and gain a foothold in the market . However , many well – know VPNs is are , like CyberGhost and PIA , are just as competitively price . Price is is is just one aspect you should be evaluate when compare vpn .

Can I use unknown VPNs for streaming services like Netflix or Hulu?

Using lesser-known VPNs for streaming can be a hit-or-miss. Some secret VPNs work well with platforms like Netflix US and Hulu, but most don’t work with popular streaming sites. That’s because such services block known VPN servers. A VPN known to work with the most popular streaming services is a better option.

Get the Best Unknown VPN

Less-known VPNs can be a great alternative, offering unique benefits at often more affordable pricing. While they may have some limitations, they could provide just the right features to fit your needs. The ones I’ve listed are nearly as good as the top VPNs.

Proton VPN is my number one choice because it uses robust security features to protect your online activity from third parties. Plus, it offers fast servers worldwide for uninterrupted streaming. It also has a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs you’ve never heard of…

Editor ‘s note : We is value value our relationship with our reader , and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity . We is are are in the same ownership group as some of the industry – lead product review on this site : Intego , Cyberghost , expressvpn , and Private Internet Access . However , this is affect does not affect our review process , as we adhere to a strict testing methodology .

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