Free VPN vs. paid VPN: Are free VPNs truly free?

What is a free VPN?

A free VPN is a virtual private network (VPN) service that does not charge a monthly or yearly subscription fee. At a minimum, a free VPN should ideally offer encrypted connections, the ability to hide your IP address, and access to reliable servers, though the quality of these features may vary significantly between providers.

Whether a VPN is free or paid, it relies on a network of servers that require ongoing maintenance. Operating this infrastructure involves significant costs, including VPN server management and technical support. But if the service is free, how do these free VPN companies survive in such a highly competitive market?

How do free VPNs make money?

VPN providers, like any company, need to make money to stay in business. If users aren’t paying for the service, the company has to find other ways to profit. So how do free VPNs make money? 

1. Tracking and selling your browsing data

Many free VPN providers make money by tracking and selling your browsing data. You might think your online activity isn’t important, but in reality, your data is a valuable asset. Advertisers are willing to pay big money to learn about your browsing habits, shopping preferences, and online behavior.

Free VPN providers track your online activity, collecting information like the websites you visit, the products you buy, the amount of time you spend online, and the type of device you’re using. They package this information and sell it to data brokers. These brokers then share it with advertisers, who use your information to design targeted ads that follow you around the internet.

2. Bombarding you with ads

Free VPNs may also make money by bombarding you with ads. Showing ads is a common way to earn revenue from free services. Every time you click on an ad, the VPN provider earns money. With millions of users, this strategy can bring in enough cash to keep the business running.

However, constant ads are not only annoying but can also be hard to close. Even worse, some ads may contain malware that can infect your device and put your online security at risk.

3. Pushing you to upgrade to paid plans or make in-app purchases

Free services often make money by pushing users to upgrade to premium plans or make in-app purchases. To encourage this, they deliberately limit the free version, making it difficult to rely on.

Free VPN providers impose data limits, restrict bandwidth, and offer access to only a few overcrowded, slow servers. These limitations can frustrate users enough to make them switch to the paid version.

For instance, some free VPNs only give you 500 MB or 1 GB of free data per month. That’s barely enough for light browsing and definitely not enough if you’re using streaming services, sharing content, or downloading files. 

In addition to pushing premium subscriptions, many free VPNs often encourage in-app purchases for extra features. These might include faster connection speeds, access to more server locations, unlimited bandwidth, or stronger encryption.

While the basic service is free, these “extras” can add up quickly if you need them regularly. By limiting the functionality of the free version, free VPN providers encourage users to upgrade to paid options.

Are free VPNs safe?

Free VPNs are not entirely safe, especially when it comes to protecting sensitive data like banking information, confidential work, or personal details. Many free VPNs lack strong security measures, which may put your data at risk.

Some services fail to use proper encryption, which may expose your online activity. Even worse, some free services might collect and sell your data to third parties. These risks defeat the main reason people use a VPN — to improve their online privacy.

But do you have to pay for a VPN to enjoy better privacy and security online? Yes, you do. If you want reliable protection, paying for a trusted VPN is your best option.

What are the drawbacks of a free VPN?

The only real advantage of a free VPN is that it’s free. But when it comes to performance, privacy, and security, the downsides far outweigh the cost. The drawbacks of a free VPN include:

• Weak security. A VPN is a tool meant to improve your digital security, but a free VPN might do the opposite. Many free VPNs lack proper server infrastructure and strong encryption, which could make your personal information an easy target for hackers.

• Slow or limited performance. Slower speeds and outdated features can make free VPNs unreliable. With limited bandwidth, data caps, and overcrowded servers, you’ll struggle to stream, play online, or even browse smoothly. It’s frustrating and far behind what a paid version can offer.

• Lack of privacy. A VPN is supposed to mask your location and keep your online activity private. But free services often do the exact opposite. Instead of protecting your privacy, many sell your data to third parties like advertisers and data brokers.

Why are paid VPNs better than free alternatives?

Paid service providers earn money by charging users subscription fees, which they use to improve their services. They reinvest part of their earnings to strengthen server infrastructure, improve security features, and ensure reliable performance.

In contrast, free VPNs simply don’t have the resources to match the security, internet speed, or reliability of paid options. The biggest advantage of a free VPN service is, unsurprisingly, that it’s free. But when a service is free, you typically can’t expect top-tier quality.

Paid providers also have little room for error. Users are paying for a service, so these companies are obligated to deliver what they promise. Free VPNs, on the other hand, operate under no such pressure.

What are the benefits of a paid VPN?

A paid VPN service comes with several critical security, privacy, and performance benefits that free alternatives cannot match. Below, we’ve outlined the most important advantages for paid VPN users.

1. An extensive server network

Paid VPNs offer extensive server networks designed to provide fast, reliable access wherever you are. For example, NordVPN operates more than 7,900 servers in 126 countries, ensuring excellent speeds worldwide.

Additionally, NordVPN offers multiple servers tailored to specific needs:

• Obfuscated servers — to access information in countries with severe internet restrictions.
• Onion Over VPN — for extra security when accessing .onion websites.
• Double VPN — redirects your traffic through two servers instead of one for extra security and protection.
• Dedicated IP — offers exclusive servers for users who have purchased dedicated IPs.
• P2P servers — for smooth and secure file sharing.

2. Strong privacy protections

Unlike some free VPNs, NordVPN doesn’t log your online activity, sell your browsing data to third parties, or collect it for other purposes. With NordVPN, your sensitive data remains private and secure.

And if you’re wondering whether you can leave your VPN on all the time, the answer is “yes” when using a premium service like NordVPN. Paid VPN services often place no limits on how much data you can use and actively recommend keeping your VPN connected 24/7.

3. Top-notch encryption

Paid VPNs like NordVPN use AES-256-bit encryption, which is the same standard trusted by governments and militaries worldwide. This level of protection scrambles your internet traffic, making it unreadable to hackers, internet service providers (ISPs), or anyone trying to spy on your online activity.

Strong VPN encryption is particularly important when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, which are common targets for cybercriminals. Paid VPNs use top-grade encryption to ensure that even on unsecured networks, your sensitive data — like passwords, credit card information, or work documents — stays safe.

4. Additional features

Paid VPNs come with extra security features designed to improve your online safety. For example, NordVPN offers:

• A VPN Kill Switch feature, which makes sure your data doesn’t get exposed, even if your VPN connection drops.
• DNS and IP leak protection, which prevents your IP and DNS from becoming exposed.
• Meshnet, which lets you connect devices, reroute traffic, and use native remote access apps to log in to your device or grab a file regardless of where you are.
• Dark Web Monitor, which will notify you if someone leaks your credentials to the dark web.
• Threat Protection Pro™, which blocks third-party trackers and malicious ads, prevents you from accessing malware-ridden websites, and scans files for malware as you download them.
• Private DNS, which shields your DNS requests from third parties, so no one can spy on you or secretly redirect you to a malicious site.
• Split tunneling, which divides your network traffic into two separate connections. VPN split tunneling lets you route some of your data traffic through an encrypted VPN while other apps keep direct internet access.

5. Secure access to restricted services

Countries with heavy internet censorship block social media platforms, Western news outlets, and web pages and apps. Free VPNs won’t always let you bypass heavy restrictions and might not offer the privacy you need.

Premium VPNs, like NordVPN, consistently work to circumvent these restrictions, offering you unrestricted internet access while maintaining your privacy and security.

What are the factors to consider when buying a VPN service?

Choosing the right VPN is important to protect your online privacy, access restricted content, and enjoy a secure browsing experience. So how do you choose a VPN that fits your needs? Below are the most important factors to consider when buying a VPN service:

1. 1.Security and encryption protocols. The best VPNs use AES-256-bit encryption, a top-grade standard that ensures your internet activity remains private. Also, look for advanced protocols like OpenVPN or WireGuard, which add an extra layer of protection against hackers and third parties.
2. 2.A no-logs policy. Choose a provider with a strict no-logs policy, meaning it doesn’t collect, store, or sell your browsing activity. For added reassurance, go for providers like NordVPN, which undergo independent security audits.
3. 3.Server locations and coverage. Premium VPNs offer thousands of servers around the globe, giving you more options for fast and reliable connections. An extensive server network is particularly useful for accessing foreign websites or working remotely from different locations.
4. 4.Connection speed and performance. Speed matters, especially if you stream, game, or make video calls. While congested servers often make free VPNs slow, paid VPNs invest in high-performance servers that deliver fast and stable connections. Look for reviews or performance statistics to pick the fastest option.
5. 5.Device compatibility. Ensure the VPN is compatible with all your devices. NordVPN, for example, works on smartphones, tablets, laptops, desktops, smart TVs, consoles, and even routers.
6. 6.Simultaneous connections. If you share your account with family or use multiple devices yourself, simultaneous connections are a must. Many VPNs limit you to just a few active connections, but providers like NordVPN let you connect up to 10 devices at the same time.
7. 7.A kill switch and DNS leak protection. A kill switch ensures your data isn’t exposed if the VPN connection drops. On top of that, DNS and IP leak protection keeps your IP address and DNS requests hidden, ensuring nobody can track your activity or identify your location.
8. 8.Customer support availability. Even the best VPN services sometimes have issues. That’s why 24/7 customer support is an important factor. Choose a VPN provider that offers live chat, email support, or an extensive help center so you can get quick solutions whenever you need them.

What is the average cost of a paid VPN?

The average cost of a VPN is between $2.19 and $17.99* per month, depending on the provider and the plan you choose. While this range also includes some free VPNs, paid VPNs generally fall on the higher end of the spectrum.

Most paid VPN providers offer substantial discounts for long-term subscriptions, which can significantly reduce the monthly cost. For example, with NordVPN, opting for an annual plan or a two-year plan often brings the price down to as low as $3–5 per month.

If you’re considering NordVPN, here’s how the pricing works:

• Monthly plan: This is the most flexible option, perfect if you don’t want a long-term commitment. However, a monthly subscription usually costs more per month.
• Yearly plan: You pay for a full year upfront, which lowers the overall cost compared to the monthly plan. A yearly plan is a great option for saving money while still keeping a shorter commitment.
• Two-year plan: This plan offers the best value. You pay once every two years, which gives you the lowest monthly cost overall.

NordVPN frequently offers special VPN deals, especially during holidays or promotional events. For example, during sales, you can save up to 68% on a two-year subscription or bundle your plan with extras like a password manager.

* These price ranges are based on our review of the top 10 VPN services, but keep in mind that the VPN market is highly competitive and prices may change.

Why is NordVPN one of the best paid VPN service providers?

Several reasons place NordVPN among the best paid VPN service providers:

1. 1.Top-grade security. NordVPN delivers next-level security with AES-256-bit encryption, Double VPN, and features like Threat Protection and Threat Protection Pro™.
2. 2.A strict no-logs policy. NordVPN has a strict no-logs policy, which means it doesn’t track your internet activity. Independent audits have verified this claim five times.
3. 3.A massive server network. With 7,900+ servers in 126 countries, NordVPN offers fast, reliable connections for streaming, gaming, and accessing global content.
4. 4.Lightning-fast speeds. Powered by the NordLynx protocol, NordVPN delivers smooth, lag-free performance for UHD streaming, online gaming, and video calls.
5. 5.The ability to connect multiple devices. NordVPN lets you connect and protect up to 10 devices at once, including your smartphone, laptop, tablet, or even your router, all with one account.

According to PCWorld's best VPN review, NordVPN is ranked as the best overall VPN in their comparison of free and paid services.

Free VPN vs. paid VPN: Privacy and security

Is NordVPN free?

NordVPN isn’t free, but it offers options to try the service risk free. You can use the 30-day money-back guarantee to test its full features. Android users can also access a 3-day free trial directly through Google Play.

NordVPN regularly provides coupons and special deals to make its premium service more affordable. You can choose between monthly, annual, and two-year plans, with bigger savings on longer subscriptions.

Be cautious of free NordVPN accounts you may come across online. These are often illegally obtained or cracked versions of legitimate accounts. Using them can compromise your privacy, expose your device to malicious software, or leave your data vulnerable.

Is a free VPN service better than having no VPN at all?

No, a free VPN service is not necessarily better than having no VPN. 

While a VPN is designed to protect your online privacy and security, a free VPN often fails to deliver on its promises. Many free providers track your activity, collect your data, and sell it to third parties like advertisers.

Without a VPN, your internet activity may be exposed to your ISP or hackers, but using a shady free VPN isn’t much better. Instead, it may trade one risk for another, offering the illusion of privacy while compromising your security behind the scenes.

Are firewalls safer than most free VPNs?

Yes, firewalls are generally safer than most free VPNs when it comes to protecting your device from malicious threats.

However, a comparison between a firewall and a VPN shows that these tools serve different purposes. A firewall blocks unauthorized access to and from your device and acts as a shield against hackers, malware, and other cyberattacks.

On the other hand, a VPN encrypts your internet connection and hides your IP address to protect your privacy. While paid VPNs provide advanced security and privacy features, many free services fall short.

They often lack adequate encryption, engage in logging user data, share your information with third parties, or even expose you to malware risks. Because of these vulnerabilities, a reliable firewall provides stronger immediate protection from cyber threats than most free VPNs.

However, keep in mind that a firewall doesn’t protect your online privacy. For complete security, you need both tools working together — a trusted VPN to protect your personal data and a firewall to protect your device from malicious attacks.

Free vs. paid VPN: Which type of VPN is right for you?

A free VPN might seem like a great deal — it's free, after all. But that free service often comes at the cost of your security, privacy, and overall user experience. Unlike paid VPNs, free VPN providers need other ways to make money, and that can put your data and safety at risk.

Free options often come with limitations that leave you vulnerable. For example, they might cap your bandwidth, slow down your connection, or restrict VPN server access. Worse, some free VPNs sell your browsing activity to advertisers or data brokers to generate income, sacrificing the very privacy they claim to protect.

Paid VPNs charge money to protect your data, invest in their technology, and ensure their servers are fast and secure. With a premium VPN like NordVPN, you get advanced features like top-grade encryption, access to servers worldwide, round-the-clock customer support, and the peace of mind that your online activity is safe.

So which VPN is right for you? If online security, privacy, and performance matter are important to you, a paid service is the clear choice. While free VPNs might be tempting, the risks they pose can end up costing you far more than you save.