5 Best VPN Free Trials in 2025: Some Need No Credit Card

With the cost of everything going up exponentially, the last thing I want is to spend money on a VPN that's slow, unreliable, or unsafe. This is why I thoroughly test a VPN before committing to a subscription. But finding a genuinely useful VPN trial can be frustrating — most either limit essential features or are too short to test important capabilities properly.

My team and I tested 60+ VPN free trials to find the best ones that let you truly test everything. We looked at both traditional free trials (including some no-credit-card options) and money-back guarantees. We evaluated everything from security and connection speeds to performance with popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney+.

Of the VPNs tested, ExpressVPN has the best free trial options. Unlike most services that limit trials to mobile devices, you can start your 7-day free trial from any device — phone, computer, or tablet. When your trial ends, you can continue testing since it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. I tested the refund policy myself after 28 days of use, and my money was back in my account within a few days. Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

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Short on Time? Here Are the 5 Best VPN Free Trials in 2025

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

Best VPN Free Trials — Full Analysis (Updated in 2025)

1. ExpressVPN — Fastest VPN With a 7-Day Free Trial on All Devices

Editor’s Choice Editor’s Choice Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Tested January 2025

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

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Try ExpressVPN >

www.expressvpn.com

ExpressVPN offers something rare — a 7-day free trial that you can start from any device. Most VPNs only let you trial their service through mobile apps, but with ExpressVPN, you can start testing directly from your computer, phone, or tablet. You get instant access to everything, from its fast servers to its security features. We started my trial on Windows and had no issues using the same account on a phone and tablet.

It consistently delivered the fastest speeds of all the VPNs we tested. During our tests, local connections retained 97% of our base speeds, while even long-distance servers like Austin to Tokyo only showed a 14% reduction. Most VPN free trials we tested showed a speed loss of over 40% over similar connections. This makes it ideal for streaming, gaming, and large downloads without lag.

We didn't experience any buffering while watching Netflix in HD

ExpressVPN worked seamlessly with every streaming platform in our tests. While using its trial, we could securely access Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and over 15 Netflix libraries (including the US, UK, Japan, and Korea) without any issues. Each platform loaded usually on the very first server we tried. This means you never have to waste time hunting for working servers.

Although you don't specifically need a credit card, you'll still need some payment method to start your free trial. I prefer using its 30-day money-back guarantee — you get a refund directly from ExpressVPN plus more time to properly test the service. When I tried it myself, I received my money back in just a few days. Note that with iOS devices, getting a refund depends entirely on Apple's policies.

Useful Features

• Strong focus on privacy. Based in the British Virgin Islands, ExpressVPN maintains a strict no-logs policy that's been verified through multiple audits and real-world incidents. Its RAM-only servers wipe all data on reboot, adding an extra layer of protection.
• Works in China. ExpressVPN's advanced obfuscation helps it work in China, making it one of the few more reliable VPNs for the region. It also proved effective on restrictive networks commonly found at schools and workplaces, where many other free trial VPNs fail to connect.
• P2P-friendly servers. Every ExpressVPN server supports P2P traffic, so you’ll have many options to choose from. During our trial, we connected to a nearby server and downloaded a 2GB copyright-free torrent file in under 1.5 minutes.
• Lightweight protocol. The Lightway protocol maintains fast speeds over long distances while keeping your connection secure. It also uses minimal system resources, which means longer battery life during streaming or gaming sessions on your mobile device.

2. CyberGhost — Reliable Specialty Servers With a No-Credit-Card Free Trial

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

CyberGhost offers multiple free trial options depending on your device. You get a 24-hour trial for Windows and macOS that doesn't require any payment information — just download and start using it. Mobile users get longer trials (3 days on Android and 7 days on iOS), though these require a payment method due to store policies. Each trial gives you unlimited access to all features without restrictions.

The VPN makes it easy to find the right server for your needs with its specialized servers. Instead of testing different locations, you'll find clearly labeled servers optimized for streaming, gaming, and torrenting. This setup helps you quickly connect to the best server for your activity, which is especially useful during the short trial period.

During our tests, these servers delivered exactly what they promised. CyberGhost’s streaming servers worked seamlessly with 8 different Netflix libraries, BBC iPlayer, Hotstar, and Max, without any issues. When we tested the gaming servers, they provided 5% faster speeds on average compared to regular servers, with consistently low ping for lag-free gaming.

CyberGhost offers streaming servers in over 15 countries

It’s unfortunate that the only option that requires no payment info (desktop trial) only lasts 24 hours. This isn't enough time to properly test everything CyberGhost offers. But it also offers a generous 45-day money-back guarantee with its long-term plan — which is the longest on this list, providing enough time to thoroughly test all its features.

Useful Features

• Good speeds. When we tested its 24-hour trial on a MacBook, we only saw an 8% speed loss on nearby servers. Long-distance connections showed larger slowdowns — 34% on Japanese servers and 29% on Australian servers. These speeds are still good enough for online activities, especially if you have fast internet.
• NoSpy servers. CyberGhost's NoSpy servers are managed exclusively by its staff in Romania, where privacy laws are strict. This setup minimizes third-party interference with your data. Plus, its no-logs policy has been independently verified by firms like Deloitte.
• Strong security features. You get all essential security tools with CyberGhost, including AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and IP/DNS leak protection. You also get automatic WiFi protection and Block Content, which blocks domains used for ads, malware, and trackers.
• Smart Rules. This feature lets you automate your VPN connections based on your preferences. You can set CyberGhost to automatically connect when you launch specific apps, join certain networks, or start your device.

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Customize Your Connection Risk-Free for 7 Days

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try Private Internet Access >

www.privateinternetaccess.com

Private Internet Access includes a no-strings-attached 7-day mobile trial alongside its 30-day money-back guarantee. During the trial, you can explore its extensive customization options and massive server network. The trial is available through Google Play and App Store without any feature restrictions. Simply download the app and start your trial — you can even use your account on other devices to test PIA's multi-device capabilities.

PIA is one of the most customizable free VPN trials we’ve tested. You can choose between WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols, with OpenVPN letting you reduce encryption from AES 256-bit to 128-bit for faster speeds at slightly lower security. This also gave us lower ping times in our gaming tests.

In our tests, WireGuard gave us better speeds than OpenVPN

PIA has the largest server network of all the trials we tested. This extensive coverage means you'll always find fast, uncongested connections nearby. Plus, the servers deliver on performance too. During our tests, we could securely access major streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and Max without issues.

On the downside, PIA is based in the US (a 14-Eyes country). However, its no-logs policy has been verified through multiple court cases where the company couldn't provide any user data even when legally required. The VPN also publishes regular transparency reports to maintain accountability.

Useful Features

• Fast connections. We recorded only a 9% speed loss on nearby servers, maintaining excellent performance for all online activities. Even with distant servers, speeds only dropped by 23% — good enough for HD streaming and torrenting.
• Strong security features. Beyond standard security tools like data leak protection and a kill switch, PIA offers Multi-Hop for obfuscation. This routes your traffic through a VPN server and then a proxy server, adding an extra layer of privacy.
• US servers in every state. PIA is the only VPN we tested with servers in all 50 US states. This means you can get an IP address from your desired US state, even during the trial period.

4. NordVPN — 7-Day Android Trial With Advanced Security Features

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try NordVPN >

www.nordvpn.com

NordVPN's free trial is only available through Android devices. You'll need to download the app from Google Play and sign up to start your 7-day trial. Once activated, though, you can use your trial account on any device — including computers and tablets. If you don't have an Android device, you can still test NordVPN risk-free with its 30-day money-back guarantee.

I’m a big fan of NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro. This feature blocks trackers, malicious websites, and intrusive ads before they load. During our NordVPN tests, it cleaned up an ad-heavy news site completely and blocked several known tracking domains. It even scans downloads for malware to keep your devices safe.

You can use Threat Protection Pro even without connecting to a VPN server

NordVPN's speeds are some of the fastest we've tested, just behind ExpressVPN. When connected to nearby servers, we only experienced a 6% drop in speed, perfect for streaming and gaming. These impressive speeds come from its NordLynx protocol, which maintains fast connections while keeping your data secure.

Its mobile app's map interface could use some improvement, though. The world map can feel clunky and unresponsive on smaller screens, making server selection a bit frustrating during the free trial period. However, you can use its search function or server list to find your preferred location.

Useful Features

• P2P-optimized servers. NordVPN’s free trial offers specialized servers for torrenting, clearly marked in the app. These servers maintain fast download speeds while protecting your privacy. Also, NordVPN is based in privacy-friendly Panama and has a strict no-logs policy, making it a safe option for torrenting.
• Dark Web Monitor. This feature scans the dark web for any leaked credentials associated with your email address. I received instant alerts when my test email appeared in data breaches, so I could quickly change compromised passwords.
• Meshnet. You can connect up to 60 devices directly over encrypted tunnels, even without a VPN connection. During NordVPN’s trial period, I used it to access my home computer while traveling and to share files securely between team devices.

5. Surfshark — Test VPN Features on Unlimited Devices Simultaneously

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try Surfshark >

www.surfshark.com

Surfshark's 7-day free trial is available across multiple platforms. Mobile users can get it through Android and iOS stores, while Mac users can download it directly from Surfshark's website. The trial gives you full access to all features, including its unlimited connections. If you're a Windows user, you can still test the VPN risk-free using its 30-day money-back guarantee.

What sets Surfshark apart is its unlimited simultaneous connections. During our tests, we connected 8 different devices to the same server — including phones, laptops, tablets, and a smart TV. Even with multiple devices streaming and gaming at once, the connection remained stable with no noticeable slowdown.

There was only a 14% drop from our base speeds

It handled streaming tasks impressively in our tests. Surfshark could securely access content from major platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, DAZN, and Disney+. The connection was reliable as we streamed My Undead Yokai Girlfriend on Prime Video Japan — there were no drops or connectivity issues.

The only minor inconvenience we faced during the free trial was that some servers took longer to connect. For instance, connecting to the Melbourne server took around 12 seconds, while competitors like ExpressVPN connected in under 3 seconds. However, once the connection was established, we experienced no issues at all.

Useful Features

• GPS spoofing on Android. Beyond changing your IP address, Surfshark can also override your GPS location on Android devices. We tested this feature with various location-based apps, and they all showed our chosen VPN location instead of our actual position.
• Lightweight browser extensions. You can test its Chrome and Firefox extensions alongside your trial account. They're faster than the full app when you just need to change your location.

Quick Comparison Table: Best VPN Free Trials

The table below compares essential features of each VPN trial, including duration, money-back guarantee period, speed performance, and whether credit card or other payment details are needed.

When starting a trial through mobile app stores, you can use your existing store payment method (like credit card, PayPal, or other linked payment options) — no need to enter new payment information. However, you'll need to add a payment method if you haven't already set one up in your store account.

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

Free Trial VPNs That Didn’t Make the Cut

These VPNs offer decent features and reliable trials, but certain limitations kept them from making our top 5. Here's why:

• IPVanish. A user-friendly VPN with unlimited connections and a 7-day mobile trial, plus 30-day money-back guarantee. However, its long-distance servers showed significant speed drops in our tests, especially on Asian and Australian connections.
• PrivateVPN. Works reliably on restrictive networks with a 7-day trial and 30-day money-back guarantee. While it's easy to use, its smaller server network means you might have trouble finding fast nearby servers.
• Proton VPN. A privacy-focused service offering open-source apps and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Despite strong security features, its premium plans are notably more expensive than competitors with similar features.
• Hotspot Shield. Uses Hydra protocol for fast speeds even on long-distance connections, offering a 7-day trial and 45-day refund period. However, being based in the US raises some privacy concerns, and its apps lack customization options.
• hide.me. Provides a 3-day mobile trial and highly customizable security settings with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Though feature-rich, we experienced inconsistent speeds due to server congestion during peak hours.

Our Methodology for Testing VPNs With Free Trials

Our approach to testing VPN trials focuses on verifying that you get a genuine premium experience during the trial period. We thoroughly compare trial versions against paid plans, checking if all features are available and testing speeds across global servers to ensure there's no hidden throttling. We also examine the trial activation process on different devices to verify how payment requirements and restrictions work in practice.

We evaluate streaming capabilities and security features to confirm they work as advertised during the trial. Our tests also focus on each VPN’s privacy practices and torrenting capabilities. We also personally test each VPN's money-back guarantee by requesting refunds, ensuring you can truly test these services risk-free. For more details, check out our VPN testing methodology page.

VPN Free Trial vs Money-Back Guarantee: What’s the Difference?

Free trials and money-back guarantees each offer different ways to test a VPN risk-free, but there are key differences to consider. Traditional free trials usually last 1–7 days and don't require new payment information for mobile trials since it's already linked to your app store account. Desktop trials sometimes need no payment details, but some providers might limit features.

VPN money-back guarantees typically provide a better and longer testing experience. You get access to all premium features and can test the VPN thoroughly (usually for 30 days). While you do need to pay upfront, leading VPNs honor their refund policies without hassle. I've tested these personally and always got my money back within a week. However, if you signed up through an app store, your refund process and approval are in the app store’s hands, so it’s better to sign up directly through the VPN's website.

Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

FAQs on the Best VPNs With Free Trials

What's the best VPN free trial I can get without a credit card?

The #2 VPN on this list offers a 24-hour desktop trial that requires no credit card or payment information. However, this trial is quite short and limits you to one device connection.

That said, you can test any VPN on this list through mobile app stores without entering new payment information — you'll just need a payment method already linked to your store account. This is different from needing to provide new credit card details directly to the VPN.

Which VPNs offer a 30-day free trial?

None of the VPNs on this list offer a true 30-day free trial, but they provide a 30-day (or more) money-back guarantee instead. This gives you more time to test all features compared to standard 7-day trials. The refund process is straightforward — I tested it personally with every VPN on this list and received my money back within 7 business days.

Can I use a VPN free trial on a Firestick?

Yes, all the VPNs on this list have native Fire TV apps, and you can use your trial account on your Firestick after activating it. Just download the VPN app from the Amazon Appstore, sign in with your trial account credentials, and you're ready to go. Remember, you can’t start your trial directly on Firestick, though.

How do I cancel my VPN free trial?

How you cancel depends on where you started your trial. If you signed up through an app store (Google Play or Apple App Store), you'll need to cancel through your store's subscription settings.

For desktop trials, you can usually cancel directly through the VPN app or your account on the VPN's website. If you're using a money-back guarantee, just contact the VPN's support team before the guarantee period ends — all the VPNs on our list process refunds quickly, usually within a week.

What’s the best VPN free trial for Japan?

All the VPNs on this list are good trial options for Japan. They delivered consistently fast speeds on Japanese servers as well as global connections. This makes them reliable for everyday browsing, gaming, and other online activities.

These VPNs work seamlessly with Japanese and global streaming services. Plus, they provide strong encryption and data leak protection when using public networks in cafes and stations, while their no-logs policies ensure your browsing data stays private.

Can I reset my VPN free trial?

It’s unlikely. Some VPNs let you use their money-back guarantee multiple times (with limits), but this is rare. You may also be able to get a new free trial by using a different email. But you could end up getting banned from the VPN service if they catch you trying to sign up for a free trial multiple times. It’s better to test different VPN services using their free trials to see which one works best for you.

In addition, several VPN services ask for credit card information, so you would need to have numerous credit cards to sign up multiple times. Besides, many VPNs have stopped their free trials because of people abusing the system in this way. If a provider’s free trial isn’t long enough, then consider using its money-back guarantee instead. Or, you may be able to email customer support and ask for an extension.

What’s the best VPN free trial for Netflix and streaming?

The VPN free trials on this list are all solid choices for Netflix and other streaming platforms. In our tests, the #1 pick worked flawlessly with every Netflix library we tried — even the less common ones. It had no trouble with other major streaming services either.

The rest of these VPNs worked great with Netflix and streaming too. The #2 VPN even has special streaming servers that take the guesswork out of finding the right connection. Just pick a streaming-optimized server, and you're good to go.

Which VPN has the longest free trial?

All VPNs on this list offer free trials ranging from 1 to 7 days, with every option providing 7-day trials on mobile devices. Our #2 ranked VPN stands out by offering different trial lengths across platforms — 7 days on iOS, 3 days on Android, and a 24-hour desktop trial that doesn't require any payment information.

However, money-back guarantees give you more testing time than standard trials. While most VPNs offer 30-day refund periods, our #2 pick goes further with a 45-day money-back guarantee for long-term plans. This gives you plenty of time to thoroughly test everything the VPN offers, and getting a refund is simple if you're not satisfied.

Get the Best VPN Free Trial

Every free trial is different, and some of them come with a lot of restrictions. You’ll have to read the fine print and remember to cancel in time to avoid being charged.

While the VPN free trials in this list are good options, testing a VPN using its money-back guarantee is the best way to get the full experience without paying anything. You can use it for much longer than a free trial and aren’t restricted in any way.

Out of the 50 VPNs my team and I tested, I recommend ExpressVPN. It offers world-class security features and has a huge server network with fast speeds for every kind of online activity. And most importantly, it has a 7-day free trial and a trustworthy money-back guarantee. You can test it completely risk-free. If you’re not satisfied, you have 30 days to claim a full refund.

To summarize, these are the best VPN free trials…

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

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