Downloading a free VPN naturally sounds very appealing. VPN services are a way to stay more secure online, while also giving you the chance to get around geo-restrictions and unlock blocked apps.
But it's worth exercising some caution, too. There are hundreds of free VPNs out there on the web and in your app store and the vast majority just aren't very good. In fact, it goes beyond that, with some of the dodgier free apps bombarding you with unwanted ads, functioning poorly and even selling your data.
That said, if your reason for having a VPN is just about having a bit more security on your laptop or mobile when using public Wi-Fi every now and then, the best free VPNs can do a decent job.
So on this page, you'll find our pick of the better options available to download today. We've assessed the ability of the top free VPNs to see which will keep your online activity anonymous without you having to spend a thing. ExpressVPN might take the crown of our favorite premium provider in the world, but the best free VPN at the moment is ProtonVPN - we explain why we think so below.
The problems with free VPN's
Free VPN services may cost nothing but there is usually a good reason for that - it means the provider will be turning a profit in some other way, usually with invasive advertising or by selling your browsing data to third-parties (rather defeating the whole drive for privacy in the first place).
Plus, free services tend to limit the amount of data you can use and the speed you can use it at, rendering them practically useless for streaming video, torrenting or as an extra layer of reliable security in your day-to-day online life. And don't expect the kind of easy access support or server range that you get with the paid services, either.
So before we get stuck in to our list of the best free VPN downloads, it's worth knowing that a paid-for version can cost as little as around $2/£2 per month and will give you much better performance and protection.
1. ExpressVPN: Try TechRadar's #1 VPN for free
We have reviewed more than two hundred VPN providers, both free and paid, and our top recommendation right now is ExpressVPN. Given the risks of using free VPNs, we think the price is absolutely worthwhile - plus, it comes with a no-questions-asked 30 day money back guarantee, too.
2. NordVPN: The world's biggest VPN brand
Chances are, even if you don't know a lot about virtual private networks you may have heard of NordVPN. It advertises on TV, sponsors sports teams and has been a leader in the market for over seven years. Nord doesn't quite lead the way right now but it's still a fantastic service and currently $3.71 USD per month.
3. Surfshark: World-class VPN, very reasonable price
Still too expensive? Then look no further than Surfshark. From just $2.30 USD per month it's a fantastic, premium option that's unbelievably simple to use and has become a TechRadar favorite. It offers most of the same features as the other top services, just for less money.
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