Introduction to Free VPNs
Having covered virtual private networks (VPNs) for a while, it’s clear that "best VPN" and "paid VPN" are often used interchangeably. However, there are some reliable and trustworthy VPN services that offer free subscription tiers, making them suitable for users with basic browsing needs.
The Best Free VPNs
Among the VPN services tested, Proton VPN and TunnelBear stand out as notable exceptions. They offer free subscription tiers that are protected by the same privacy practices as their paid counterparts, including vetted no-logs policies. These free tiers are subsidized by the paid plans, meaning that Proton VPN and TunnelBear don’t make money off their free users.
Importance of Paid Subscribers
It’s essential to steer clear of completely free VPNs that aren’t funded by paid subscribers or subject to usage limits. These VPNs may spam users with ads, track or leak user data, or intentionally bundle their apps with malware. When choosing a VPN, it’s crucial to exercise caution, as online privacy is the primary reason for getting one in the first place.
Proton VPN: The Best Free VPN for Daily Use
Proton VPN’s free tier is ideal for daily use, with no data or speed limits. Free subscribers can utilize Proton VPN’s kill switch and its custom Stealth protocol, which is designed to bypass VPN blocks.
What Proton VPN Can Do
Proton VPN’s free tier offers:
- No data or speed limits
- Kill switch
- Custom Stealth protocol
- Support for journalists and activists in countries with government censorship and misinformation campaigns
What Proton VPN Can’t Do
Free Proton VPN users can’t:
- Use live chat support
- Access advanced features like split tunneling, multi-hop "Secure Core" servers, or the "VPN Accelerator" speed-boosting tool
- Choose from a wide range of servers (restricted to about 2,300 servers in five countries)
TunnelBear: The Best Free VPN for Occasional Location Spoofing
TunnelBear Free users get country-level server selection on its full network, making it suitable for occasional location spoofing.
What TunnelBear Can Do
TunnelBear’s free tier offers:
- Country-level server selection on its full network
- Kill switch (called "VigilantBear")
- Split tunneling tool (called "SplitBear")
- Customizable app appearance
What TunnelBear Can’t Do
TunnelBear Free users are capped at 2GB of browsing data per month and can’t:
- Stream hours of shows and movies
- Unblock geo-restricted content on international streaming services
- Access advanced features like multi-hop or on-demand customer support
Conclusion
While free VPNs may not offer the same level of features and server locations as paid VPNs, Proton VPN and TunnelBear are reliable and trustworthy options for users with basic browsing needs. By understanding the capabilities and limitations of these free VPNs, users can make informed decisions about their online privacy and security. Remember to always exercise caution when choosing a VPN, and be aware of the potential risks associated with completely free VPNs.
