7 Best Free VPNs in 2025 – Secure and Reliable VPNs for Streaming & Privacy
Finding the best free VPN that’s both safe and reliable can be tough. Many providers promise privacy, but only a few actually deliver. Free VPNs that balance encryption, speed, and usability are rare.
Free services often come with trade-offs. These include data limits, restricted servers, or performance issues. There’s usually something to worry about. But if you choose carefully, you can find a reliable free VPN. These can provide essential privacy and access to geo-blocked content.
This compilation is for those seeking the best free VPNs for iPhone, Android, and PC in 2025. We’ve highlighted VPNs suited for different needs. Whether you need one for privacy, streaming, gaming, or the best free VPNs Reddit users recommend, you’ll find necessary insights here to help you make an informed decision.
How We Picked the Best Free VPNs
| VPN Name | Free Data Allowance | Server Locations (Free) | No-Logs Policy | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Proton VPN | Unlimited | 5 (US, NL, JP, RO, PL) | Yes | Unlimited browsing & privacy |
| PrivadoVPN | 10GB/month | 13 | Yes | Streaming & secure browsing |
| Windscribe | 10GB/month | 10 | Yes | Versatility & ad-blocking |
| Hotspot Shield | 500MB/day | 1 (US) | No | Fast speeds for basic browsing |
| Hide.me | 10GB/month | 5 | Yes | Privacy-focused users |
| TunnelBear | 2GB/month | 20+ | Yes | User-friendly & beginner VPN |
| ZoogVPN | 10GB/month | 3 | Yes | Unblocking restricted websites |
With a quick look at the VPN offerings we recommend, it is also important to know the reason behind choosing them. For a fair and unbiased compilation of the best free VPNs, we evaluated them based on the critical factors mentioned below. Plus, you can use these to make an informed decision if you’re choosing a free VPN for yourself.
Privacy: A VPN should protect your data, not misuse it. Only those with strict no-logs policies and strong encryption were considered. Many free VPNs track your activity, sell your data, or show ads. This compromises your security instead of improving it. Transparency was a must. Many users want the best free VPNs with no logs to keep their browsing completely private.
Security Standards: Encryption is crucial to keep the network traffic secure. Hence, we chose those VPNs with standard encryption, such as AES-256. As VPN protocols are responsible for these, only the standard protocols such as OpenVPN, WireGuard, or IKEv2 are our top priority.
Rest assured, VPNs with weak encryption or outdated protocols like PPTP were immediately excluded. Finding a free VPN with no data cap is rare since most free options limit usage to push upgrades.
Data Allowance and Bandwidth: Most free VPNs have strict data limits, making them unsuitable for more than basic browsing. The best options offer generous data caps, like Proton VPN, which offers unlimited bandwidth. Any service with less than 2GB per month isn’t practical for most purposes, so we eliminated those with restrictive limits.
Server Locations and Accessibility: More servers mean better usability. Many free VPNs lock users to one location, making it harder to bypass geo-restrictions. Besides performance, we also prioritized services with multiple server options for your flexibility and added freedom.
Speed and Reliability: Speed consistency is crucial for usability. Some free VPNs throttle speeds so much that even basic browsing becomes frustrating. Hence we tested and ranked VPNs accordingly, making sure they aren’t just for web browsing, but also for video playback, and secure connections. All these steps are to find the best free, effective VPNs that balance security and speed without constant lag.
No Hidden Costs or Shady Monetization: A free VPN should not come with hidden risks. Many “free” services make money by showing ads, tracking users, or bundling bloatware. We removed VPNs with too many ads, suspicious business practices, or bad records for handling user data.
The Best Free VPNs in 2025 - In Depth Analysis
Knowing about the free VPNs and their trade-offs, we chose to be careful. This section highlights seven of the best free VPNs available in 2025. Each offers a unique advantage, from unlimited data to strong security protocols and reliable speeds.
1. ProtonVPN - Best for Unlimited Free Data
Proton VPN breaks the mold, especially for a free VPN. There are no data caps throttling your connection or bandwidth limits forcing you to save megabytes. Most free VPNs restrict users with tight limits—2GB or 5 GB—and they’re gone in no time. Proton VPN is different. It offers limitless browsing and uninterrupted access. But even free comes with a cost. Freedom isn’t entirely free.
Security and Privacy
Encryption keeps your data safe while it travels between your device and the VPN server. It protects your privacy by keeping your information confidential. This safeguards you from cyber threats, eavesdropping, and other dangers.
Proton VPN uses AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption, both are top-notch, industry-leading standards. Its Swiss base adds extra privacy since Switzerland isn’t part of the FVEY alliance. It also has a kill switch. If the VPN disconnects, it blocks all internet traffic. This prevents accidental data leaks during interruptions.
Performance and Streaming
Speeds depend on server congestion. Connecting to the Netherlands server during off-peak hours gives around 40 Mbps. This is enough for smooth browsing and HD video playback. But during peak times, speeds often drop below 10 Mbps, causing slowdowns. If you’re searching for the best free VPNs for Android and iPhone, Proton VPN offers unlimited data and a reliable mobile experience.
Streaming is where Proton VPN falls short. Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ block the free US server. Many users wonder which free VPN works best for Netflix. While Proton VPN’s free servers don’t usually unblock streaming services, the Japan server did unlock Netflix Japan during our test.
Usability and Limitations
Usability and Limitations Proton VPN’s free plan includes servers in five countries: the US, Netherlands, Japan, Romania, and Poland. This offers decent global coverage but also leads to congestion. P2P traffic is blocked, so it’s not suitable for torrenting.
For a deeper look into Proton’s features and privacy practices, see our detailed Proton VPN review.
Pros
- Unlimited data with no ads
- Strong security and no-logs policy
- Reliable for private browsing
- Available across desktop and mobile
- Multiple server locations ( five countries)
Cons
- Speeds drop during peak hours
- No support for torrenting or P2P downloads
2. PrivadoVPN – Best for Secure Streaming
PrivadoVPN strikes a rare balance: security, speed, and usability wrapped into one. Free VPNs often throttle connections or slap on harsh data caps, but this one? It gives you 10GB of free data each month. That’s enough for smooth browsing, occasional streaming, and avoiding the frustration of constant cutoffs.
Security and Privacy
PrivadoVPN operates under Swiss jurisdiction, thanks to its strong legal protections that reinforce its strict no-logs policy, the user activity stays off the record. Worried about security? PrivadoVPN’s AES-256 encryption locks down data, while OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols offer a perfect balance of speed and safety. DNS and WebRTC requests remained fully encrypted, blocking any chance of IP exposure. There are no surprises, no weak spots, just airtight security.
But here’s where it gets interesting—PrivadoVPN’s free plan includes a kill switch. That’s rare. If the VPN connection drops, your data won’t leak. Most free VPNs? They either lack this safeguard or bury privacy policies in vague legalese. Not here. PrivadoVPN is upfront: no tracking, no storing, no selling—just privacy, plain and simple.
Performance and Streaming
Speed tests showed steady performance. Nearby servers reached 45 Mbps, while distant ones managed 20 Mbps. Browsing was smooth, with no lag. For the best free VPNs for streaming, PrivadoVPN is a solid choice. It can access some geo-restricted content.
There was no buffering or quality drops. But the 10GB data cap is a hurdle. Once you exceed it, speeds drop, and you’re stuck with one slow server. It’s a sharp contrast to the earlier freedom.
Usability and Limitations
PrivadoVPN’s free plan gives access to 13 server locations, which is more than many competitors. The setup is simple, with user-friendly apps for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. Connectivity feels seamless, the interface is polished, and switching servers is effortless.
According to Reddit users who are discussing the best free VPNs, PrivadoVPN is often recommended for its balance between security and speed. But here’s the catch: no P2P support. Torrenting? Off-limits. For some, that’s a deal-breaker. For others, just a footnote. Either way, it’s a limitation worth noting.
Pros
- Works with Netflix and BBC iPlayer
- Strong encryption and no-logs policy
- Built-in kill switch for added security
- 13 free server locations, more than most
Cons
- No P2P or torrenting support
- A 10 GB monthly data limit may not be enough
- Limited to one server after the data cap
3. Windscribe – Most Versatile Free VPN
Windscribe stands out for its flexibility, offering a generous 10GB of free data per month, access to servers in 10 countries, and unique privacy tools that extend beyond standard VPN protection. While many free VPNs limit features to push users toward a paid plan, Windscribe maintains a solid balance of usability and security.
Security and Privacy
Windscribe operates from Canada, a Five Eyes nation, raising natural concerns about surveillance. For those looking for the best free VPNs with no logs, Windscribe’s strong privacy policies make it a standout choice. In our tests, DNS and IP leak protection held firm, keeping real locations invisible at all times.
Security is rock-solid. AES-256 encryption locks down connections, while OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2 give users flexible protocol choices. Speed or security—pick your priority. But the real showstopper? R.O.B.E.R.T., Windscribe’s built-in ad and tracker blocker. Unlike free VPNs that flood users with ads, Windscribe flips the script, filtering malware, trackers, and intrusive scripts before they ever reach your device.
Performance and Streaming
Speed tests showed impressive results for a free VPN. Local servers averaged around 50 Mbps, providing smooth browsing, video playback, and even some lightweight gaming. However, performance dipped to 15-20 Mbps when connected to long-distance servers, which is expected given network congestion on free plans.
Streaming is a mixed experience. While Windscribe successfully bypassed region locks on YouTube, BBC iPlayer, and some foreign news websites, it struggled with Netflix and Disney+, which actively blocked most free VPN servers.
Usability and Limitations
Windscribe stands out in the free VPN space with a surprisingly vast server network. You get access to locations in the US, UK, Canada, France, Germany, and beyond—an impressive lineup for a no-cost option. Its apps are sleek, intuitive, and packed with customization.
Split tunneling lets you control which traffic runs through the VPN while advanced settings fine-tune your connection for speed and security. However, customer support is limited. Live chat is only available to premium users, leaving free users with a bot-based support system that can be frustrating when troubleshooting connection issues.
Pros
- Strong encryption and a strict no-logs policy
- Built-in ad and tracker blocker
- 10 server locations on the free plan
- Customizable connection settings
Cons
- Inconsistent streaming access
- Long-distance speeds drop significantly
- No live customer support for free users
4. Hotspot Shield – Fastest Free VPN
Hotspot Shield stands out in the VPN world and is known for its speed-first approach. Its free plan isn’t the most flexible, but it gets the job done fast. With a 500MB daily cap, long streaming sessions are off the table, and heavy browsing? That’s a stretch. But for quick, secure connections, snappy checkouts, brief logins, and urgent lookups, it’s rock solid. Speed over everything, no frills, just function.
Security and Privacy
Unlike most VPNs on this list, Hotspot Shield ditches OpenVPN and WireGuard for its proprietary Hydra protocol. Speed is its game. If you’re looking for the best free VPNs for PC, Hotspot Shield’s fast connection speeds make it a suitable choice for quick browsing sessions.
Security? Solid. Traffic is encrypted with AES-256, keeping your data safe from prying eyes. But privacy? That’s where things get murky. The free version runs on ads, raising concerns about data collection. Hotspot Shield insists it doesn’t log browsing activity, yet ad-supported models rarely operate without some level of tracking.
Performance and Streaming
Speed is where Hotspot Shield excels. In testing, local servers delivered over 60 Mbps, making it one of the fastest free VPNs available. Even long-distance connections maintained above 25 Mbps, outperforming most competitors in raw speed.
However, streaming support is nearly non-existent. Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime detected and blocked Hotspot Shield instantly. Even YouTube had occasional resolution downgrades when using distant servers. For players searching for the best free VPN for gaming, Hotspot Shield’s low-latency connections work well for casual mobile gaming, but the data cap of 500MB per day limits extended play.
Usability and Limitations
Hotspot Shield’s one-click connection makes it effortless to use, especially for beginners. However, the free plan is limited to a single US server, restricting global accessibility. Additionally, the forced ads on the free version can be intrusive.
Pros
- One of the fastest free VPNs
- Uses proprietary Hydra protocol
- Simple and easy-to-use interface
- Reliable for quick browsing sessions
Cons
- Only 500MB of free data per day
- Limited to a single server (US)
- Contains ads, raising privacy concerns
- Almost no streaming capability
5. Hide.me – Best for Privacy-Focused Users
Hide.me stands out in the crowded VPN market as a rare gem among free services. Unlike others, it avoids intrusive ads and shady monetization. Instead, it delivers a privacy-first experience, staying true to its no-logs policy. With 10GB of free data monthly, it offers enough bandwidth for secure browsing without tracking or compromises.
Security and Privacy
Hide.me offers excellent security. It uses AES-256 encryption and supports protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2. The VPN has a built-in kill switch, which is rare for free services. IP, DNS, and WebRTC leak tests showed no data exposure. This guarantees complete anonymity.
Unlike most free VPNs, Hide.me doesn’t log your activity. Independent audits back this claim. There are no ads, reinforcing its strong privacy focus. This makes it a rare and reliable choice for true online anonymity.
Performance and Streaming
Speed tests were decent but inconsistent. On local servers, downloads hit 35-40 Mbps, but long-distance connections dropped below 15 Mbps. Hide.me works well for browsing and secure communications but isn’t great for heavy data use.
For those looking for the best free VPNs for Mac, Hide.me’s macOS client offers strong security and a no-logs policy. Streaming was a mixed bag. It couldn’t unblock Netflix, Hulu, or BBC iPlayer, but it worked for some region-locked news sites. The 10GB monthly limit also restricts how much content you can stream before hitting the cap.
Usability and Limitations
The free plan includes five server locations: the US, Canada, Germany, Netherlands, and Singapore. While this selection is broader than some free competitors, it still leads to server congestion during peak hours. Additionally, free users can only connect one device at a time, which may be inconvenient for those needing coverage on multiple platforms.
Pros
- Strong encryption with a built-in kill switch
- No-logs policy is independently audited
- No ads or intrusive tracking
- Works well for secure browsing
Cons
- Speeds fluctuate on long-distance servers
- No Netflix or major streaming support
- Limited to five free server locations
- Only allows one device connection at a time
6. TunnelBear – Most User-Friendly VPN
TunnelBear’s free plan is one of the easiest VPN options to use. It’s perfect for anyone who wants simplicity without dealing with technical stuff. Its interface is very intuitive, and the setup is beginner-friendly. This makes it a great choice if you’re new to VPNs. However, the 2GB monthly data limit is a major downside. It’s only good for light browsing.
Security and Privacy
TunnelBear focuses heavily on security. It uses AES-256 encryption and supports OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard protocols. The service follows a strict no-logs policy. This has been independently audited to confirm its commitment to privacy.
Leak tests showed no IP, DNS, or WebRTC leaks. This proves it’s a secure VPN. TunnelBear is based in Canada, which is part of the Five Eyes alliance. However, its no-logs policy means no personal data is stored or shared.
Performance and Streaming
TunnelBear’s speed results were decent but not impressive. Nearby servers offered speeds of 30-35 Mbps, which is fine for web browsing. Long-distance servers were less reliable. Speeds sometimes dropped below 10 Mbps, causing slowdowns.
Streaming isn’t TunnelBear’s strength. Netflix, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer blocked the free servers during testing. It worked for some regional news and basic content but isn’t good for streaming movies or TV shows. Unfortunately, TunnelBear isn’t a free VPN with unlimited data. However, its secure infrastructure and easy-to-use design make it a solid backup VPN.
Usability and Limitations
One of TunnelBear’s best features is its user-friendly design. The app is visually engaging and extremely easy to navigate, making it ideal for those who want a hassle-free VPN experience. It also offers server access in over 20 countries, one of the highest among free VPNs.
However, the 2GB monthly data cap is a major limitation. Even casual users will find it restrictive, as it barely covers a few hours of secure browsing.
Pros
- Easy-to-use interface, great for beginners
- Strong encryption with independently audited no-logs policy
- Access to servers in 20+ countries
- Reliable for general browsing and light usage
Cons
- Extremely low 2GB monthly data limit
- Does not work with Netflix or other services
- Long-distance servers can be slow
- Lacks advanced customization features
7. ZoogVPN – Best for Unblocking Restricted Websites
ZoogVPN isn’t a very popular free VPN, but it’s a practical option for bypassing basic geo-restrictions. It offers 10GB of free data per month and access to three server locations. This makes it easy to use while giving you decent privacy. It may not match the speed or versatility of top free VPNs, but it’s great for unblocking region-restricted content. This makes it a solid choice for casual browsing.
Security and Privacy
ZoogVPN follows a strict no-logs policy. It does not track, store, or share your data. It uses AES-256 encryption and supports OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard protocols. If you’re looking for the best free VPN for Windows, ZoogVPN’s lightweight app is a simple way to protect your browsing.
However, in testing, it lacked some of the advanced security features found in other free VPNs, such as a kill switch or additional leak protection. While there were no DNS leaks during usage, the lack of a kill switch increases the risk of data exposure if the VPN disconnects unexpectedly.
Performance and Streaming
Speed results were average, with local servers maintaining 25-30 Mbps, which is enough for general browsing and low-quality streaming. However, long-distance servers struggled to maintain stable speeds, often dropping below 10 Mbps.
ZoogVPN’s biggest advantage is its ability to bypass content restrictions. Unlike many free VPNs that get blocked immediately, it successfully accessed geo-restricted news sites, Wikipedia in censored regions, and even some streaming platforms with mixed results. While it couldn’t unblock Netflix or Disney+ reliably, it worked with some regional streaming services. These services don’t have strict VPN detection.
Usability and Limitations
ZoogVPN’s free version offers servers in the US, UK, and Netherlands. This is fewer than competitors like Windscribe or TunnelBear. However, it’s enough for users who need access to common regions. The app is simple and lightweight. It’s easy to connect with minimal setup. Torrenting is not supported. Free users might experience speed throttling during peak hours.
Curious about ZoogVPN’s full capabilities? We cover it extensively in our dedicated ZoogVPN review.
Pros
- Successfully unblocks geo-restricted content
- Simple and easy-to-use interface
- Decent speeds for browsing on local servers
- 10GB monthly data allowance
Cons
- Limited server selection (only three locations)
- No kill switch or advanced security features
- Long-distance speeds can be unreliable
- Inconsistent streaming performance
Final Verdict – Are Free VPNs Worth Using?
Free VPNs offer basic online security and limited access to restricted content. However, they come with trade-offs. Data caps, speed limits, and a few server options make them suitable for occasional use, not full-time protection.
From the options tested, Proton VPN is the best for unlimited data and security-focused users. PrivadoVPN works well for occasional streaming. Windscribe offers great flexibility. Hotspot Shield delivers fast speeds but has a strict data limit.
Hide.me is a top choice for privacy-first users, while TunnelBear is perfect for beginners. ZoogVPN provides decent unblocking for restrictive regions. If you need consistent streaming, torrenting, or global server access, free VPNs won’t cut it.
Upgrading to a premium VPN offers better speeds, full content access, and stronger privacy. But for basic anonymity or occasional region switching, these free VPNs offer good solutions without compromising much on security.
FAQs about best free VPNs
Most free VPNs can’t bypass streaming restrictions. Netflix and other platforms block VPN traffic. PrivadoVPN and ZoogVPN worked with some streaming sites in tests. Proton VPN’s Japanese server was the most reliable free option for Netflix. For consistent streaming, a paid VPN is better.
Some do. Free VPNs funded by ads or data monetization often collect and sell user data. The VPNs reviewed here—Proton VPN, Hide.me, and TunnelBear—follow strict no-logs policies. They’ve also passed independent security audits.
Paid VPNs have faster speeds, more servers, better security, and no data limits. Free VPNs limit bandwidth, server locations, and speed. Free options work for light use. For streaming, gaming, or better security, paid VPNs are a smarter choice.
Free VPNs have fewer servers, causing congestion during busy times. Many also slow down speeds on purpose to push users to upgrade. VPNs like Hotspot Shield and Windscribe performed better than most free options. But free services will always be slower than paid ones.