Best Free VPNs

Free VPNs by Purpose & Device

Good idea. Here are blog-style writeups for each of those topics, plus a “Top 5 free VPNs” list for each case. (Note: free VPNs always have trade-offs — data caps, limited servers, slower speeds, or weaker privacy.)

Free VPN for Windows

Why you might need a free VPN on Windows:

• Protecting yourself on public Wi-Fi (cafes, airports)
  
• Bypassing light geo-restrictions
  
• Basic privacy while browsing
  

Things to watch out for:

• Data caps: many free VPNs limit monthly data.
  
• Speed: free servers can be slower or crowded.
  
• Logging / privacy: free VPNs may have weaker privacy practices than paid ones. (Security.org)
  
  

Top 5 Free VPNs for Windows:

1. PrivadoVPN Free
   
   • 10 GB/month data cap. (TechRadar)
     
   • Good speeds, multiple server locations. (TechRadar)
     
   • Works on Windows.
     
     
2. Proton VPN Free
   
   • Unlimited data. (Tom’s Guide)
     
   • Very strong privacy (no ads, open-source). (Tom’s Guide)
     
   • Limited free server locations.
     
     
3. Windscribe Free
   
   • Around 10–15 GB/month for free users (depending on provider) according to some sources. (TechRadar)
     
   • Good performance. (TechRadar)
     
   • Multiple server locations.
     
     
4. Hide.me Free
   
   • Strong no-logs policy. (Cyber Altitude)
     
   • Good protocol support (WireGuard, OpenVPN). (01net.com)
     
   • Limited free server choices.
     
     
5. Hotspot Shield Basic (Free)
   
   
   • Often recommended among free VPN lists. (Security.org)
     
   • Enough for light browsing, though not ideal for heavy usage.
     
     

Free VPN for Android

Why use a free VPN on Android:

• Secure mobile internet usage (especially on public Wi-Fi)
  
• Accessing geo-blocked apps or content
  
• Protecting your privacy on the go
  
  

Caution:
Some free Android VPNs are risky, collecting data or having malware. (vpnMentor) Always pick trusted names.

Top 5 Free VPNs for Android:

1. PrivadoVPN Free
   
   
   • 10 GB/month. (Tom’s Guide)
     
     
   • Good speed and streaming support (according to Tom’s Guide). (Tom’s Guide)
     
     
2. Proton VPN Free
   
   
   • Unlimited data. (SafePaper)
     
   • High privacy, no ads. (Tom’s Guide)
     
     
3. Windscribe Free
   
   
   • Free tier gives 2 GB without email, 10 GB after verification (per SafePaper). (SafePaper)
     
   • Has ad-blocking, split tunneling. (SafePaper)
     
     
4. Hide.me Free
   
   • Secure protocols, solid privacy. (Cyber Altitude)
     
   • Enough for light use; server options are limited.
     
     
5. TunnelBear Free
   
   • Very beginner-friendly. (Often recommended on forums.)
     
   • Data cap is small (e.g., 500 MB/month), so best for occasional light use.
     
     

Free VPN for Mac (macOS)

Why you might want a free VPN on Mac:

• Encrypting browsing on your MacBook (especially on shared Wi-Fi)
  
• Accessing region-restricted content
  
• Lightweight privacy without paying
  
  

Key trade-offs:

• Free Mac VPNs often have limited servers or slow speeds.
  
• Data limits may apply or free plans may be “freemium.”
  
  

Top 5 Free VPNs for Mac:

1. Proton VPN Free
   
   • Unlimited data. (vpnMentor)
     
   • Very good privacy (no logs). (TechBloat)
     
   • Limited free server locations.
     
     
2. Hide.me Free
   
   • Unlimited bandwidth (though speed may be limited). (01net.com)
     
   • Strong security, multiple protocols. (01net.com)
     
     
3. Windscribe Free
   
   • 10 GB/month (after email verification). (TechBloat)
     
   • Good for streaming / geo-unblocking. (CoolTechZone)
     
     
4. Hotspot Shield Basic (Free)
   
   • Free version available for macOS. (Cybernews)
     
   • Uses Hydra protocol, decent speed for light use.
     
     
5. TunnelBear Free
   
   • Very user-friendly UI for Mac. (CoolTechZone)
     
   • Data cap is modest (~500MB/month), good for occasional use.
     
     

Free VPN for iPhone (iOS)

Why you’d want a free VPN on iPhone:

• Protecting data when using public/mobile networks
  
• Accessing content restricted by region
  
• Keeping your activity more private
  

Trade-offs:

• iOS free VPNs may throttle speed or data.
  
• They may not include all advanced features (kill switch, many servers).
  
  

Top 5 Free VPNs for iPhone:

1. PrivadoVPN Free
   
   • 10 GB/month. (TechRadar)
     
   • Fast speeds, good for streaming (per TechRadar). (TechRadar)
     
     
2. Proton VPN Free
   
   • Unlimited data. (Tom’s Guide)
     
   • Very strong privacy, no-logs policy.
     
     
3. Windscribe Free
   
   • 10 GB/month. (TechRadar)
     
   • Ad-blocking built in.
     
     
4. TunnelBear Free
   
   • Easy to use, fun UI. (TechRadar)
     
   • Lower data cap, but decent for light use.
     
     
5. Hotspot Shield Basic (Free)
   
   • Unlimited data in some free plans, though speed is limited. (TechRadar)
     
   • Simple and effective for casual browsing.
     
     

Free VPN for Gaming

Why use a VPN for gaming:

• Reduce ping / latency (if a VPN helps route you better)
  
• Access to game servers in other regions
  
• Protect against DDoS (on some games)
  
  

Challenges with free VPNs for gaming:

• Data cap: gaming can use a lot of data
  
• Speed: free servers may not be optimized for high-speed gaming
  
• Stability: free VPNs can drop or throttle
  
  

Top 5 Free VPNs for Gaming:

1. Windscribe Free
   
   • Generous data (10 GB/month) and decent speeds. (TechRadar)
     
   • Multiple server locations.
     
     
2. PrivadoVPN Free
   
   • Solid speeds. (TechRadar)
     
     
   • Good for occasional gaming, but data cap may limit heavy use.
     
     
3. Proton VPN Free
   
   • Unlimited data. (Cyber Altitude)
     
   • But limited server choice, which could affect latency.
     
     
4. Hide.me Free
   
   • Reliable security; you can pick protocols. (Cyber Altitude)
     
   • But speed and server options are limited.
     
     
5. SoftEther VPN (not a traditional free-tier commercial VPN)
   • Open-source, you can configure your own VPN server / client. (Wikipedia)
     
   • More technical, but gives flexibility for gaming routing.
     
     

Free VPN for Streaming

Why use a VPN for streaming:

• Access region-restricted shows / content
  
• Protect your privacy as you stream
  
• Bypass local ISP throttling (potentially)
  
  

Limitations for free VPN users when streaming:

• Data caps can limit how much you binge-watch.
  
• Not all free VPNs work with streaming platforms; many are blocked.
  
• Speed may vary, possibly causing buffering.
  

Top 5 Free VPNs for Streaming:

1. PrivadoVPN Free
   
   • Known to unblock Netflix, BBC iPlayer, etc. (Tom’s Guide)
     
   • 10 GB/month limit.
     
     
2. Windscribe Free
   
   • Good number of free server locations; used by many for streaming. (TechRadar)
     
   • 10–15 GB/month (depending on info source).
     
     
3. Hotspot Shield Basic (Free)
   
   • Good enough for light streaming. (Security.org)
     
   • But free version server options are limited.
     
     
4. Proton VPN Free
   
   
   • Unlimited data. (Tom’s Guide)
     
   • However, free servers may not reliably unblock all streaming platforms.
     
     
5. Hide.me Free
   
   • Security is good; can be used for streaming, though not all servers will work. (01net.com)
     
     

Free VPN for Netflix

Why specifically Netflix:

• Netflix has very strong VPN-detection; not every VPN can bypass it.
  
• For a free VPN to work with Netflix, it needs to have good speed and “unblock” capabilities.
  

Caveats:

• Free VPNs that unblock Netflix are rare and may not work reliably.
  
• Using a VPN for Netflix may violate Netflix TOS (not legal advice, but a practical risk).
  
  

Top 5 Free VPNs for Netflix (or at least with some Netflix-unblocking potential):

1. PrivadoVPN Free
   
   • Known to unblock Netflix (some regions) per reviews. (Tom’s Guide)
     
   • 10 GB/month, so limited “bingeing.”
     
     
2. Windscribe Free
   
   • Has been reported to be used to unblock Netflix via certain servers. (TechRadar)
     
   • Data limit may restrict how much you use it for Netflix.
     
     
3. Hotspot Shield Basic (Free)
   
   • Might work for lighter Netflix streaming; depends on free server. (Security.org)
     
   • Free plan has limitations.
     
     
4. Proton VPN Free
   
   • Unlimited data, but Netflix access via free tier is not guaranteed.
     
   • Very privacy-focused, but server selection is limited.
     
     
5. TunnelBear Free
   
   • Not super reliable for Netflix, but could work in some locations / times.
     
   • Very limited data cap (~500MB), so not great for full-series watching.
     
     

Free VPN for Privacy

Why “privacy” is a special case:

• You’re less concerned with streaming or speed; more with data protection, anonymity, no logs.
  
• For privacy, key factors: encryption, logging policy, jurisdiction, and protocol.
  

Risks with free VPNs and privacy:

• Some free VPNs monetize by collecting / selling user data. (WIRED)
  
• Others may not have strong encryption or safe protocols.
  
  

Top 5 Free VPNs for Privacy:

1. Proton VPN Free
   
   • Unlimited data. (Tom’s Guide)
     
   • Very strong no-logs policy, privacy-first approach. (Cyber Altitude)
     
     
2. Hide.me Free
   
   • No-logs policy. (Cyber Altitude)
     
   • Supports multiple protocols (WireGuard, OpenVPN) for better security. (01net.com)
     
     
3. RiseupVPN Free (mentioned in some free VPN lists)
   • Open-source, built for privacy. (Cyber Altitude)
     
   • No registration required, strong anonymity.
     
     
4. SoftEther (DIY)
   
   • Open-source; you can run your own server or use trusted servers. (Wikipedia)
     
   • Very flexible, highly secure if configured well.
     
     
5. Orbot (Tor-based)
   
   • Uses the Tor network to anonymize traffic. (Wikipedia)
     
   • More privacy than regular VPN in some cases, but slower and not a traditional VPN.
     
     

Free VPN for China

Why VPNs for China are special:

• The “Great Firewall” blocks many VPN services.
  
• Obfuscation (making VPN traffic look like regular traffic) is often needed.
  
• Free VPNs are particularly risky/unreliable in China because of high censorship, detection, and risk.
  

Warning:

• Using VPNs in China can be legally sensitive.
  
• Free VPNs typically do not provide strong obfuscation like paid ones.
  
  

Top 5 Free VPNs (or near-free / low risk) for China:

Important caveat: It’s very hard for free VPNs to reliably bypass the Great Firewall. Most truly effective China VPNs are paid.

1. Proton VPN Free
   
   • Very strong privacy, but likely not good for stable access in China due to limited obfuscation.
     
   • Unlimited data. (Tom’s Guide)
     
     
2. SoftEther VPN
   
   • Because it’s open source, you can configure bridged / obfuscated servers (if you have access). (Wikipedia)
     
   • Requires technical setup.
     
     
3. Windscribe Free
   
   • Some users may be able to connect, but the free tier is unreliable for China-level censorship.
     
   • Data cap and server limitations.
     
     
4. Orbot (Tor)
   
   • Provides anonymity via Tor relay. (Wikipedia)
     
   • Very slow; not ideal for streaming or heavy use.
     
     
5. RiseupVPN
   
   • Open-source, privacy-focused. (Cyber Altitude)
     
   • But likely not powerful enough to reliably bypass the Great Firewall without advanced configuration.
     
     

Conclusion for China: If you need a reliable VPN in China, a paid VPN with obfuscation / stealth technology is likely a better option than any free one.

Free VPN for USA (i.e., to appear as US IP)

Use cases for wanting a US IP:

• Accessing US-only content (websites, streaming)
  
• Privacy or anonymity with a US exit node
  
• Testing or development
  
  

Top 5 Free VPNs to get a US IP:

1. Windscribe Free
   
   • Has free US servers. (TechRadar)
     
   • 10 GB/month cap.
     
     
2. PrivadoVPN Free
   
   • Has US servers among its free tier. (Tom’s Guide)
     
   • 10 GB/month.
     
     
3. Proton VPN Free
   
   • Some free servers include the US.
     
   • Unlimited data.
     
     
4. Hide.me Free
   
   • Offers US server in free plan depending on location. (01net.com)
     
   • Good security, moderate speeds.
     
     
5. Hotspot Shield Basic (Free)
   
   • Free US server option in some cases.
     
   • Good for light browsing.
     
     

Free VPN for Dubai (or UAE)

Why Dubai (or UAE) VPN use is tricky:

• The UAE has strict cyber-laws; legal risk of using unauthorized VPNs.
  
• Many free VPNs may not have servers in the UAE or nearby, making them less useful for geo-spoofing to/from the UAE.
  
  

Things to be careful about:

• Legal risk: understand UAE telecom and cyber-regulations.
  
• Free VPNs may not reliably blast through local restrictions or provide UAE or MENA-region IPs.
  
  

Top 5 Free VPNs to Consider (with caveats):

1. Windscribe Free
   
   • Some “free” servers may be in locations that help approximate Middle East access.
     
   • But probably not UAE-based exit nodes.
     
     
2. PrivadoVPN Free
   
   • Good performance, but no guaranteed UAE server. (Tom’s Guide)
     
     
3. Proton VPN Free
   
   • Unlimited data; good for privacy, but unlikely to have UAE exit.
     
     
4. Hide.me Free
   
   • Might be used to connect out via Europe or US; not UAE-specific.
     
     
5. SoftEther (DIY)
   
   • If you have access to a server (private or rented) in a favorable region, you can set it up to act like a VPN exit in that region. (Wikipedia)
     
   • Needs technical skills though.
     

Conclusion for Dubai / UAE: There are very few truly free VPNs that reliably provide UAE-located IPs. For legal and technical reliability, a paid VPN might be more realistic.

Free VPN for VoIP

Why use a VPN for VoIP (Voice over IP):

• To encrypt voice traffic (for privacy).
  
• To avoid VoIP blocking / throttling by ISPs.
  
• To appear from another region (if needed).
  
  

Challenges with free VPNs for VoIP:

• Latency: VPN adds some delay, which might affect call quality.
  
• Data limits: VoIP calls (especially video) can use a lot of data.
  
• Stability: free servers may disconnect or throttle.
  
  

Top 5 Free VPNs for VoIP Use:

1. Proton VPN Free
   
   • Unlimited data, strong privacy. Good for long calls.
     
   • But limited server choice may affect latency.
     
     
2. Windscribe Free
   
   • Enough monthly data (~10 GB) for moderate VoIP usage.
     
   • Reasonable server coverage to choose a good route.
     
     
3. PrivadoVPN Free
   
   • Good speed and decent data allowance.
     
   • Can be used for lighter voice calls.
     
     
4. Hide.me Free
   
   • Secure, supports good protocols — can help keep VoIP encrypted.
     
   • Data cap or speed may limit video calls.
     
     
5. SoftEther (DIY)
   
   • If you run your own VPN server, you can optimize it for VoIP (low latency, good protocol). (Wikipedia)
     
   • Very flexible, but not plug-and-play.
     
     

Final Thoughts / Caveats

• Free doesn’t mean risk-free: Many “free” VPNs monetize in other ways (data collection, ads) — research the provider. (WIRED)
  
• Performance limits: Free servers are often more crowded, so speed may suffer.
  
• Better for testing / light use: Free VPNs are typically best for occasional use, not heavy streaming or gaming long-term.
  
• Consider paid options: If you rely heavily on VPN (for privacy, streaming, work), it’s often worth paying for a reputable paid VPN.
  
  

Checklist: How to Choose a Free VPN (Complete Guide)

Choosing a free VPN can be confusing — hundreds of apps, flashy promises, and hidden limitations. Unlike paid VPNs, free ones often come with trade-offs like data caps, ads, slower speeds, or restricted servers. That’s why using a strict evaluation checklist is essential.

This guide breaks down the must-check factors so you can confidently pick a free VPN that’s safe, reliable, and suitable for your needs.

1. Check the VPN’s Privacy & Logging Policy

A VPN should protect your privacy — not exploit it. Many free VPNs log user data to sell to advertisers.

What to look for:

✔ No-logs policy (audited or clearly written)
✔ Transparent privacy policy without vague language
✔ Provider background (Is it a known, trustworthy company?)
✔ Jurisdiction outside surveillance-heavy regions (14-Eyes)
✔ No hidden data collection (GPS, device ID, browsing habits)

Red flags:

❌ Privacy policy under 1 page
❌ Claims “we may share data with partners”
❌ Unknown company with no public team info
❌ Requires too many permissions on mobile

2. Evaluate Security Features

A VPN should secure your connection with industry-standard encryption and safe protocols.

Essential features:

✔ AES-256 encryption (or equivalent)
✔ Secure VPN protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2
✔ Kill Switch (prevents leaks when VPN drops)
✔ DNS leak protection
✔ IP leak protection

Nice-to-have:

• ▸ Split tunneling
  
• ▸ Obfuscation (if you are in restricted countries)
  
• ▸ Multi-hop routes
  
  

Avoid if:

• ❌ Uses old protocols like PPTP
  
  
• ❌ No mention of encryption standards
  
  

3. Check Data Limits

Most free VPNs restrict monthly data. This affects whether you can use the VPN for streaming, browsing, or gaming.

Ask yourself:

How much data do you actually need?

• • Light usage → 5–10 GB/month may be enough
    
  • Streaming/gaming → Unlimited data preferred
    
    

Typical free VPN limits:

• 500 MB/month → Very restrictive
  
• 5–10 GB/month → Average “freemium” tier
  
• Unlimited → Only a few trusted providers offer this
  
  

4. Assess Speed & Server Performance

Free VPNs often have slower servers, but some still deliver decent performance.

Important indicators:

• ✔ Fast protocols (WireGuard often fastest)
  
• ✔ Nearby servers (closer = faster)
  
• ✔ Clearly listed free server locations
  
• ✔ Good reputation in speed tests or reviews
  
  

Performance warning signs:

• ❌ Only 1–2 free servers (usually overcrowded)
  
• ❌ Speed throttling during peak hours
  
  

5. Check Server Locations (Free vs Paid)

Many VPNs advertise dozens of countries — but only offer 1–3 on the free plan.

Ideal:

• ✔ Free servers in your region (for speed)
  
• ✔ US / UK free locations (for streaming compatibility)
  
• ✔ Multiple global options
  
  

Why server location matters:

• Speed
  
• Ability to bypass geo-restrictions
  
• Stability and reliability
  
  

6. Look for Compatibility Across Devices

A good free VPN should work on:

Check compatibility for:

• ✔ Windows
  
• ✔ Android
  
• ✔ iOS
  
• ✔ Mac
  
• ✔ Browser extensions (Chrome/Firefox)
  
• ✔ Router support (rare for free VPNs)
  
  

Avoid providers that:

• ❌ Allow only 1 device connection
  
• ❌ Have no desktop app (mobile-only VPNs are often ad-heavy)
  
  

7. Confirm Whether the VPN Shows Ads

Free VPNs often show ads to make money — but too many ads can ruin the experience.

Safe options:

• ✔ Some providers offer ad-free free plans
  
• ✔ Others only show ads occasionally
  

Risks:

• ❌ Ad-based VPNs may inject tracking scripts
  
• ❌ Pop-up ads while browsing through VPN
  
• ❌ “Watch an ad to connect” systems
  
  

If privacy is your priority, choose ad-free VPNs.

8. Check Streaming & Gaming Compatibility

Most free VPNs do not consistently unblock streaming platforms or support low-latency gaming. But some can.

For streaming:

• ✔ Can it unblock Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, etc.?
  
• ✔ Are streaming servers included in the free plan?
  
• ✔ Does the data cap support streaming?
  
  

For gaming:

• ✔ Does the VPN reduce or stabilize ping?
  
• ✔ Does it support WireGuard for low latency?
  
• ✔ Does it have nearby servers?
  
  

Avoid:

• ❌ Free VPNs with extremely high ping
  
• ❌ Free VPNs that disconnect frequently
  
  

9. Check Reputation & Independent Reviews

Before trusting a free VPN, look for its reputation across tech websites and user communities.

Look for:

• ✔ Reviews from tech publications
  
• ✔ Reddit or online community discussions
  
• ✔ Transparency reports
  
• ✔ Security audits
  

Avoid VPNs that:

• ❌ Have scandals (selling data, malware reports)
  
• ❌ Are banned from app stores
  
• ❌ Have fake reviews
  
  

10. Understand the Business Model

If a VPN is free, it must earn money somehow.

Good business models:

• ✔ Freemium (free plan → some users upgrade)
  
• ✔ Donation-supported (e.g., privacy projects)
  
• ✔ Open-source community projects
  

Bad revenue models:

• ❌ Selling user data
  
• ❌ Ad-injection
  
• ❌ Partnering with unknown “advertising partners”
  

If the VPN won’t explain how it makes money, don’t use it.

11. Check Customer Support Options

Even free VPN users deserve basic support.

Minimum expected:

• ✔ Access to knowledge base
  
• ✔ Troubleshooting guides
  
• ✔ Community forum
  

Premium features (not required but helpful):

• ▸ Live chat
  
• ▸ Email support
  

Avoid:

• ❌ VPNs with zero support or no website
  
  

12. Evaluate Ease of Use

A VPN should be simple and clean.

A good free VPN should:

• ✔ Connect in one click
  
• ✔ Clearly show free vs paid servers
  
• ✔ Offer simple settings
  

Avoid:

• ❌ Overly complicated apps
  
• ❌ Too many permissions
  
• ❌ Misleading upgrade prompts
  
  

Summary Checklist (Copy & Use):

Before selecting a free VPN, make sure it meets these criteria:

☐ Strong no-logs policy

☐ Secure encryption + modern protocols

☐ Reasonable data limit or unlimited

☐ Good speeds and stable servers

☐ Useful free server locations

☐ Multi-device compatibility

☐ No invasive ads

☐ Works for your use (streaming, gaming, browsing)

☐ Good reputation + independent reviews

☐ Ethical business model

☐ Basic customer support

☐ Easy to use