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vpnMentor was established in 2014 to review VPN services and cover privacy-related stories. Today, our team of hundreds of cybersecurity researchers, writers, and editors continues to help readers fight for their online freedom in partnership with Kape Technologies PLC, which also owns the following products: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access which may be ranked and reviewed on this website. The reviews published on vpnMentor are believed to be accurate as of the date of each article, and written according to our strict reviewing standards that prioritize professional and honest examination of the reviewer, taking into account the technical capabilities and qualities of the product together with its commercial value for users. The rankings and reviews we publish may also take into consideration the common ownership mentioned above, and affiliate commissions we earn for purchases through links on our website. We do not review all VPN providers and information is believed to be accurate as of the date of each article.
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vpnMentor was established in 2014 to review VPN services and cover privacy-related stories. Today, our team of hundreds of cybersecurity researchers, writers, and editors continues to help readers fight for their online freedom in partnership with Kape Technologies PLC, which also owns the following products: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access which may be ranked and reviewed on this website. The reviews published on vpnMentor are believed to be accurate as of the date of each article, and written according to our strict reviewing standards that prioritize professional and honest examination of the reviewer, taking into account the technical capabilities and qualities of the product together with its commercial value for users. The rankings and reviews we publish may also take into consideration the common ownership mentioned above, and affiliate commissions we earn for purchases through links on our website. We do not review all VPN providers and information is believed to be accurate as of the date of each article.

5 Best VPN FREE Trials in 2024: Some Need No Credit Card

Keira Waddell Updated on 9th July 2024 Fact-checked by Christine Johansen Senior Writer

With the cost of everything going up exponentially, the last thing I want is to spend money on a VPN that’s slow, unreliable, and unsafe. That’s why I always prefer to test it for free before committing to a subscription. Unfortunately, you can’t always trust a VPN’s free trial marketing, though — I’ve been burned by fine print and bad customer support too many times in the past.

A lengthy free trial without major limitations can be hard to come by, too. To help you find the best option, I tested 60+ VPN trials and shortlisted only the best. I also looked at VPNs with trustworthy money-back guarantees, as these allow you to test without risk for longer periods (I personally prefer a money-back guarantee to a free trial).

Of the VPNs tested, ExpressVPN has the best free trial options. You can try its mobile app for 7 days free of charge, and each plan is backed by a money-back guarantee. So when the trial ends, you can try ExpressVPN risk-free. This gives you 30 days to claim a refund if you’re not satisfied. I tested the policy myself after using it for 28 days, and I got my money back 3 days later. Editors' 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.

Try ExpressVPN’s Free Trial >>

Short on Time? Here Are the 5 Best VPN Free Trials in 2024

  • Editor's Choice
    ExpressVPN
    ExpressVPN
    7-day free trial and a 30-day refund policy with the fastest and most reliable connections.
    70% of our readers choose ExpressVPN
  • CyberGhost VPN
    CyberGhost
    Dedicated servers, free trials, and a long 45-day refund (desktop trial is only 1 day).
  • Private Internet Access
    Private Internet Access
    Test on unlimited devices with a 7-day trial or 30-day refund. But, it’s US-based.
  • NordVPN
    NordVPN
    Offers a 7-day Android trial and 30-day refund policy, but some slow connect times.
  • Surfshark
    Surfshark
    Intuitive app with a 7-day trial and 30-day refund period. But based in the Netherlands.

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 strict testing methodology.

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

Let’s quickly clear something up — VPNs offer different ways you can try their services for free, and some are better than others. You don’t want to mix these up (and it is easy to do so), so let’s break down the most common forms of free trial a VPN offers.

  • Money-back guarantee. Most VPNs offer at least a 30-day money-back guarantee that gives you full access to their services. I recommend this method to get a full overview of the VPN’s capabilities. You need to pay for the service upfront, but you can get a full refund if you cancel within the guarantee period. I personally tested the money-back guarantees of my recommended VPNs to ensure they’re trustworthy.
  • Classic free trial. Classic free trials let you use the VPN without paying upfront. Some VPNs don’t even require signup. But, most free trials only last about 1 to 7 days and may restrict you to fewer features and be limited to a single device. Usually, if you forget to cancel 24 hours before the end of the trial, you’ll be automatically charged.
  • Forever-free plan. Some VPNs offer 100% always-free plans. Often, these are free versions of premium VPNs, or “freemium” VPNs, which are generally safer to use than 100% free options. However, many are incredibly limiting — you usually experience very slow speeds, tight data caps (as low as 500MB or 1GB per month), and a lack of advanced security features. But beware — some shady, free VPNs actively log and sell your data or have malware embedded in their apps.

Pro Tip: To test our top-rated VPN (or use any VPN’s free trial), you should sign up for ExpressVPN through the website. If you purchase a VPN through the Apple Store or Google Play Store, you’re subject to this party’s refund policy rather than the VPN provider’s. It’s better to sign up directly through the VPN’s website so you are covered by a straightforward, trustworthy refund policy. Plus, VPNs often offer better discounts when you sign up directly on their website.

Editors' 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.

What Are You Looking For?

Best for…
Official website
Number of licenses
Supported devices
Money-back guarantee
Key features
Works with streaming sites
Download speeds
Torrenting servers
Starting price
Number of servers
Full review
Overall speed, security & excellent streaming support
8
30 days
Mediastreamer, Lightway protocol, AES 256-bit encryption, vast server Network
Netflix (works with 20+ libraries), Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer... , Hulu, SkyTV, Paramount, PeacockTV, DAZN, Vudu, HBO Go (Asia), Discovery Plus, Disney Hotstar, RTL, RTE, ITVX, ESPN, BT Sport, UFC Fight Pass, NFL, Craigslist, YoutubeTV, SlingTV, FuboTV, Crackle More
Consistently very fast
All servers suitable for Torrenting
6.67 $
3000
Streaming & Online Safety
7
45 days
User-friendly interface, P2P optimized servers, NoSpy servers
Netflix (works with 16+ libraries), Disney+, Amazon prime video, BBC iPlayer... , SkyTV, Hulu, Max, Paramount plus, ITVX, DAZN (works with 3 libraries), BT Sport, NFL, Vudu, HBO Go Asia, PeacockTV, RTL, RTE, ITVX, ESPN, SlingTV, FuboTV, Crackle More
Consistently fast
Many torrenting servers listed in the app
2.19 $
11690
Digital Privacy
Unlimited
30 days
P2P optimized server, apps for every OS, global servers
Netflix (works with 17+ libraries), Disney+, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Max, ... ParamountTV, BBC iPlayer, Vudu, HBO Go Asia, PeacockTV, Disney Hotstar, RTL, RTE, ITVX, DAZN, ESPN, BT Sport, UFC Fight Pass, NFL, YoutubeTV, SlingTV, FuboTV, Crackle More
Fast
All servers compatible with torrenting
2.19 $
29650
Consistent high speeds
10
30 days
Easy to Install, lag-free streaming, strong security
Netflix (works with 15+ libraries), Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer... , Hulu, Vudu, SkyTV, HBO Go Asia, Max, Paramount+, Discovery Plus, PeacockTV, RTL, RTE, ITVX, ESPN, BT Sport, UFC Fight Pass, NFL, YoutubeTV, FuboTV, Crackle More
Consistently fast
More than 50+ servers support torrenting
3.39 $
6430
High speeds & P2P
Unlimited
30 days
Supports P2P on all servers, multiple devices, no logs
Netflix (works with 16 libraries), Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBc iPlayer,...  Hulu, Vudu, SkyTV, HBO Go Asia, Max, Showtime, Discovery Plus, PeacockTV, Disney+ Hotstar, RTL, RTE, ITVX, ESPN, BT Sport, UFC Fight Pass, NFL, SlingTV, FuboTV, Crackle More
Consistently fast
More than 60+ servers for torrenting
2.19 $
3200
High-Speed connections & advanced security features
Unlimited
30 days
Advanced security features, streaming optimization, easy to use
Netflix (works with 4 libraries), Disney+, Hulu, Vudu, SkyTV, HBO Go Asia,...  Max, Showtime, Discovery Plus, PeacockTV, Disney+ Hotstar, ITVX, DAZN, ESPN, BT Sport, UFC Fight Pass, NFL, SlingTV, FuboTV,Crackle More
Fast
Unlimited P2P connections
2.19 $
2400
Streaming and low costs
10
30 days
Port forwarding, AES 256-bit encryption
Netflix (works with 11 libraries), Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iplayer,...  Hulu, Vudu, SkyTV, HBO Go Asia, Mac, Showtime, Discovery Plus, PeacockTV, Paramount Plus, Disney+ Hotstar, RTL, RTE, ITVX, DAZN, ESPN, BT Sport, UFC Fight Pass, NFL, FuboTV, Crackle More
Inconsistently fast
Port forwarding
2 $
200
Ideal for basic streaming
10
30 days
Great for torrenting, intuitive design, zero-logs policy
Netflix (works with 4 libraries), Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iplayer, ... Hulu, Vudu, SkyTV, HBO Go Asia, Max, Showtime, Discovery Plus, PeacockTV, Paramount Plus, Disney+ Hotstar, RTL, ITVX, ESPN, BT Sport, UFC Fight Pass, NFL,YoutubeTV, SlingTV, FuboTV, Crackle More
Very fast
P2P file sharing support on all servers
4.49 $
6347
Catapult Hydra protocol for streaming and gaming
10
45 days
Supports multiple devices, Catapult Hydra protocol
Netflix (works with 5 libraries), Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iplayer, ... Hulu, Vudu, HBO Go Asia, Max, Shotime, Discovery Plus, PeacockTV, Paramount Plus, Disney Hotstar, ITVX, ESPN, BT Sport, UFC Fight Pass, NFL, YoutubeTV, FuboTV, Crackle More
Medium
P2P file-sharing support on all servers
2.99 $
1800
Basic privacy protection
10
30 days
Proven privacy policy
Netflix (works with Netflix Originals only), Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BB... C iPlayer, Hulu, Vudu, SkyTV, HBO Go Asia, Max, Showtime, Discovery Plus, PeacockTV, Paramount Plus, RTE, ITVX, DAZN, ESPN, BT Sport, UFC Fight Pass, NFL, FuboTV, Crackle More
Medium-slow
Hide.me Bolt feature increases speeds and reduces throttling.
3 $
2600

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 strict testing methodology.

Best VPN Free Trials in 2024

1. ExpressVPN — Fastest VPN With Trustworthy Free Trial Options

Best Feature Speedy connections for uninterrupted streaming, torrenting, and gaming with the 7-day mobile trial and the 30-day money-back guarantee
Server Network 3,000 servers in 105 countries for safe access to global content
Simultaneous Device Connections 8 simultaneous connections, so you can protect your privacy on multiple devices
Works With Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, DAZN, Vudu, and more
Editors' 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.

While its trial options are pretty standard, ExpressVPN’s speed, performance, and reliability make it stand out. It’s consistently the fastest VPN we’ve tested, making it suitable for seamless UHD streaming, gaming, and torrenting. Its proprietary Lightway protocol is designed for fast speeds while maintaining robust online security. ExpressVPN’s reliable global server network also makes it the best VPN for accessing global streaming platforms securely from anywhere.

It has a couple of trial options, but I always opt for a solid money-back guarantee. ExpressVPN guarantees a full refund within 30 days if you’re not satisfied with the service when you sign up directly through its website. The guarantee comes with all plans, so you don’t have to pay for a full year’s subscription to use it, either.

I tested the refund guarantee, and the process was hassle-free. Using 24/7 live chat, the agent approved my refund in less than 5 minutes after asking a couple of questions about my satisfaction.

The 7-day free trial for mobile is good, too. I appreciate that you can use it on desktop, as some VPNs restrict you to a certain device only. However, since you need to subscribe through an app store, you must provide payment info, and you will be automatically charged if you forget to cancel in time. You’re also subject to your app store’s refund policies, which could cause issues if you want to use the money-back guarantee after the trial period.

Useful Features

  • All servers support P2P file sharing. This means you’ll be able to connect to a nearby server to download files with fast speeds. I used a server in the Netherlands to download a public domain movie, and the 700 MB file was downloaded in under 2 minutes.
  • Works in China. ExpressVPN's entire server network uses obfuscation, which makes it one of the few reliable choices for users in China. It also means you can use the VPN on restrictive networks, like public WiFi networks, at school, or at work.
  • Great compatibility. ExpressVPN has native apps for all popular devices. What’s most unique is its native app and firmware for routers, making it one of the easiest VPNs to set up network-wide. Plus, MediaStreamer lets you stream US and UK content in HD on smart TVs and gaming consoles with a quick configuration (not available with the 7-day trial).
  • Solid security and privacy. In addition to leak protection and a kill switch, ExpressVPN offers AES 256-bit encryption enhanced with perfect forward secrecy. This regularly changes your encryption keys, making it virtually impossible for anyone to decipher your data. Plus, its no-logs policy has been audited and proven.
ExpressVPN Offer July 2024: For a limited time only, you can get an ExpressVPN subscription for up to 49% off! Don't miss out!

2. CyberGhost — Specialty Servers to Test for 45 Days With the Longest VPN Free Trial

Best Feature Trustworthy 45-day refund policy lets you try it for over 1 month + free trial options ranging from 1–7 days on different devices
Server Network 11,690 servers in 100 countries keep user overload minimal
Simultaneous Device Connections 7 connections so everyone can safely go online (only 1 device with free trial)
Works With Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, Vudu, and more
Editors' Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as CyberGhost VPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

What really sets this VPN apart is that you can try CyberGhost free for 45 days with its generous money-back guarantee. Most VPNs only give you 30 days. I recommend this trial for anyone new to VPNs because CyberGhost’s app and interface are set up in a very intuitive, easy-to-use way.

CyberGhost offers optimized servers for gaming, torrenting, and streaming. For instance, you can find reliable servers for platforms like Netflix US, Disney+, Hulu, ESPN, and more, so you can watch your favorite content in HD from anywhere. My global team and I tested CyberGhost’s optimized servers, and each one worked seamlessly for its corresponding purpose.

CyberGhost’s refund guarantee is also legit. I simply used the 24/7 live chat feature on its website. The agent only asked me why I wanted to cancel. They approved my refund without pressuring me to stay, and it took about 5 days to get my money back. However, you only get a 14-day money-back guarantee with the monthly plan.

While CyberGhost has a few free trial options, they’re only good on 1 device for a few days. It offers 1 day for desktop, 3 days for Android, or 7 days for iOS. Since I have a few different devices I use regularly, testing it with the money-back guarantee was my best option. Plus, it allows for 7 simultaneous device connections.

Useful Features

  • Fast speeds. I averaged download speeds of 194 Mbps on its nearby UK servers — a drop of only 11%. Unfortunately, its long-distance connections aren’t as fast as ExpressVPN, as there was a 31% drop on US servers. But this is still acceptable, especially if your base speeds are fast to begin with.
  • Privacy-focused VPN. CyberGhost offers NoSpy servers managed by its staff in its privacy-friendly Romanian headquarters. These reduce the risk of third-party interference. It also has a no-logs policy that’s been audited by Deloitte.
  • Robust security. CyberGhost provides security essentials like military-grade encryption, a kill switch, and leak protection. You also get automatic WiFi protection and Block Content, which prevents ads, malware, and trackers.
July 2024 Deal: CyberGhost is currently offering 83% off its most popular plan! Take advantage of this offer now and save more on your CyberGhost subscription.

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Trustworthy With Advanced Features to Try Risk-Free for 30 or 7 Days

Best Feature Customizable security features to tailor the VPN connection to your needs during the free trial
Server Network 29,650 servers in 91 countries — more servers than most VPNs
Simultaneous Device Connections Unlimited connections, so everyone can go online without compromising anyone else’s security
Works With Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, Vudu, and more
Editors' Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process.

Private Internet Access is packed with features, so it’s nice that you can test it for almost a month with its money-back guarantee. The 7-day mobile trial just wasn’t enough time for me to get to know this VPN. To ensure PIA's refund policy is trustworthy, I personally tested its money-back guarantee, and I got my money back in just 5 days.

One of its stand-out features is that it allows unlimited simultaneous devices, so it’s ideal for large households and families. During my testing, I connected PIA on 5 devices simultaneously, including 2 phones and 2 laptops, while connected to its London server from Edinburgh. The connection remained stable, with videos loading in under 5 seconds.

One downside is that PIA is based in the US, which is a member of the 14-Eyes Alliance — a group of data-sharing countries. However, its no-logs policy can be trusted. In fact, it’s been proven in court, survived server seizures, and it also offers regular transparency reports.

Useful Features

  • Customizable settings. PIA’s ad, tracker, and malware blocker (MACE) prevents annoying and malicious ads from infecting your device. Plus, it offers AES 128-bit encryption for faster speeds as well as 256-bit encryption for optimized security. It also offers IP/DNS leak protection and an adjustable kill switch.
  • Can safely access multiple streaming platforms. Its UK servers let me watch BBC iPlayer and Netflix UK securely and totally lag-free. Our global team also found that it can access 10+ Netflix libraries.
  • Fast speeds on nearby servers. During my tests, I used its France server to download the copyright-free Sita Sings the Blues on BitTorrent. I only lost 8% of my base speeds and got 216 Mbps. This let me download the 780MB file in less than 3 minutes. Plus, its entire server network is P2P-enabled.
July 2024 Update: PIA doesn't usually have deals or discounts (it's already so affordable), but right now you can get a new subscription for a crazy 82% off!

4. NordVPN — Easy-to-Use VPN for Beginners With Standard Trial Options

Best Feature Intuitive app interfaces make it a great choice for VPN newbies who want to try it with the 7-day Android trial or the money-back guarantee
Server Network 6,430 servers in 111 for fast, local connections almost anywhere in the world
Simultaneous Device Connections 10 connections let you protect your privacy on most of your devices
Works With Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, Vudu, and more

Like most reputable VPNs, NordVPN lets you test it risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee. I tested its guarantee, and the refund process is straightforward. Using the 24/7 live chat, I made my request. Similar to PIA, after 5 days, I got my money back.

NordVPN is also a great choice if you’re new to VPNs, thanks to its easy setup and intuitive apps. During my tests, its Quick Connect feature instantly connected me to the fastest server available. I was also quickly able to connect to other locations by using the search bar or clicking on one of the dots on the world map.

Screenshot of NordVPN's Windows app highlighting its ease of useNordVPN also has 24/7 customer support and a comprehensive knowledge base if you ever run into issues

NordVPN's 7-day free trial is only available on Android, and it’s only available in select locations. What stood out is that it doesn’t require payment details to use the trial, and it grants unrestricted access to all servers and features.

Useful Features

  • Impressive speeds. On its Los Angeles and New York servers, I recorded an average download speed of 194 Mbps — a 25% drop. This is impressive since these servers are thousands of kilometers away from me. I got the fastest speeds with its proprietary NordLynx protocol, which is NordVPN’s WireGuard equivalent.
  • Reliable for streaming. NordVPN integrates SmartPlay technology (combining Smart DNS with the VPN), which makes it one of the most dependable streaming VPNs to let you safely access content from anywhere. Our global testing team found that NordVPN works with 18 Netflix libraries.
  • Strong security and privacy. Its Double VPN (also known as MultiHop) sends your data through 2 servers for extra encryption. Plus, it offers AES 256-bit encryption, leak protection, and a kill switch. NordVPN also operates under a strict, independently-audited no-logs policy.

5. Surfshark — Generous Unlimited Device Connections on a 30-Day Risk-Free Trial

Best Feature Covers all your devices under 1 subscription backed by a money-back guarantee or test it with the free trial
Server Network 3,200 servers in 100 countries to prevent lag from overcrowding
Simultaneous Device Connections Unlimited connections let you share the VPN with your family
Works With Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, Vudu, and more

Surfshark lets you connect an unlimited number of devices, making it a great choice for large households or people with lots of tech. Plus, it’s already one of the more affordable VPNs out there, so this makes it even better value. I tested it on multiple devices simultaneously while streaming on my laptop, iPad, Android phone, and desktop computer. I hardly noticed a difference in the streaming quality on 1 versus multiple devices.

Screenshot of speed test results showing Surfshark's performance with multiple devices connectedThere was only a 14% drop from my base speeds

Its 30-day money-back guarantee is one you can trust. When I tested it, I contacted live support and asked for a refund. The agent asked why I wanted to cancel but approved my request within 5 minutes. It’s also great that you can use Surfshark’s money-back guarantee twice, as long as you wait 6 months between refunds.

Surfshark also offers a 7-day free trial on Android, iOS, and macOS. You can install it on Windows devices after signing up for the trial, though. I actually installed it directly on my Windows laptop through its main site since I signed up with a money-back guarantee.

Surfshark is headquartered in the Netherlands, which is not a privacy-friendly country. However, it adheres to a strict no-logs policy that passed an independent audit by Deloitte in 2022.

Useful Features

  • Ideal for streaming global content. Just like ExpressVPN, Surfshark offers fast speeds and reliable servers, so it’s a great option for accessing HD content from anywhere. It worked with every major streaming platform my team and I tested.
  • CleanWeb. This is Surfshark's ad and malware blocker. When I tested it, it effectively removed ads from Forbes.

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 strict testing methodology.

Tips on How to Choose the Best VPN Free Trial

Free trials and money-back guarantees for VPNs vary in quality. Here’s a breakdown of the criteria to consider when choosing the best VPN free trial.

  • No limitations. You should be able to get a good picture of what the premium version has to offer. It’s pretty common for VPNs to limit their features on a free trial, so be sure to check beforehand since there’s not much point in testing something that’s not the full experience.
  • No payment info required. Choosing a VPN trial that doesn't ask for payment details upfront can save you the hassle of a complicated refund process. It also reduces the risk of being charged if you forget to cancel. And if you didn’t sign up through the VPN’s website, you might not be covered by its refund policy.
  • A long trial period. Look for a free trial of at least 7 days. The longer a free trial, the better you can test it. VPN performance differs from day to day, so a longer free trial is essential to get a good picture.
  • Easy cancellation. A VPN free trial should be canceled automatically. Although this doesn’t happen most of the time, try to look for a free trial where the cancellation process is hassle-free or no-questions-asked.
  • No fine print. Be sure to check the terms and conditions to avoid any unpleasant surprises. For example, you could be charged extra because you went well beyond your download limits, or you might have to cancel within a certain window to qualify for the money-back guarantee.
  • Excellent customer support. Look for VPN trials that come with 24/7 live chat support. This way, you don’t have to waste time waiting for a response during a limited trial period. When there’s only email support, there’s a risk your cancellation email won’t reach them in time to be within your refund period.
  • Fast speeds. Choose a VPN that already has a reputation for fast speeds. That way, you don’t have to waste time trying a VPN that struggles to keep your connection fast enough for streaming, torrenting, or online browsing.
  • Strong security and privacy features. Make sure your VPN keeps your data safe online. Ensure it has security features such as a kill switch, strong encryption, and leak protection. Also, make sure that it adheres to a strict no-logs policy that has been verified by a third party.
  • Device compatibility. A good VPN free trial will allow you to try it on all your devices and should be available at the very least for Windows, macOS, Android and iOS. Router support is an added bonus, as this allows you to secure every device connected to your home network.

Quick Guide: How to Get a VPN Free Trial in 3 Easy Steps

  1. Download a VPN with a free trial or refund policy. I recommend ExpressVPN as it was the most reliable for any online activity during my tests. You can test all its features risk-free for 30 days since it has a money-back guarantee. If you’re not satisfied, you can easily claim a full refund.
  2. Test out your VPN. Make the most of your free trial by testing out its features.
  3. Cancel your trial or continue. Contact customer support to cancel your free trial within the timeframe or choose to continue with a paid subscription.

Editors' 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.

What About Free VPNs?

Completely free VPNs let you use their service indefinitely without any payments. They might seem like a good option, but I advise against the majority of them. Not only are most of their features limited, but they often bombard you with ads and collect your data with cookies.

Also, free VPNs can infect your device with malware and viruses. For instance, Hola VPN and BetternetVPN are known to have previously embedded malware in their apps. In short, most free VPNs put your privacy at serious risk and significantly limit your internet capabilities.

That said, there are some free VPNs that are at least safe — usually those that are offered alongside a premium service. These are often called “freemium” VPNs, and they make money from paid users, so they don’t need to resort to nefarious activities for money. Some good examples are Proton VPN, Avira Phantom VPN, hide.me, Hotspot Shield, and TunnelBear.

You can use these VPN services completely free, but they come with restrictions, like limited bandwidth and smaller server networks. I’d recommend testing their premium service with their money-back guarantees, so you won’t have to deal with the restrictions and limitations.

FAQs on the Best VPNs With Free Trials

Can I use a VPN free trial without a credit card?

Yes, it’s possible in some cases. Some VPNs let you use a free trial without a credit card, while some do not. The best free trials will only ask for an email address and no credit card information. However, most VPNs require credit card information for you to test it. You should always read the fine print before starting a free trial. If credit card details are required, then it’s likely you’ll be charged immediately when your trial period expires.

Which VPNs offer a 30-day free trial?

I haven’t come across a VPN that offers a 30-day free trial. Most VPN free trials only last from 1–7 days. However, premium VPNs that have faith in their services offer trustworthy money-back guarantees, usually lasting 30 days. I much prefer using this option over a free trial as VPN performance can vary day-on-day, so 1 week is nowhere near long enough to fully test a VPN before signing up for a paid plan.

Are free VPN trials safe?

Yes, for the most part, free trial VPNs are safe. All the VPNs on this list have been tried and tested to ensure their free trials and money-back guarantees are 100% legit and trustworthy. Plus, they offer top-notch security, like military-grade encryption, IP/DNS leak protection, and a kill switch to ensure third parties can’t access your data. Moreover, the VPN free trials included here are still covered by the VPNs’ strict no-logs policies, so your data won’t be tracked or shared.

However, you should keep in mind that free trials from premium, trustworthy VPNs are much safer than free VPNs in general. Completely free VPNs often use other means to make money, like bombarding you with annoying ads or even selling your data. For these reasons, I highly recommend using a reputable VPN’s free trial or money-back guarantee instead.

Are there VPN free trials for India and China?

There are some, but not many VPNs work in China, and many VPNs pulled their services from India due to political reasons. If you choose a VPN that works in these locations, you’ll have access to the trials and money-back guarantees like anywhere else. Check out our list of the best VPNs that actually work in China and our top VPNs for India.

However, keep in mind that VPNs are banned in China if the government does not approve them, so you need to be careful and read the laws and regulations in your region before downloading and using one there. There aren’t any public reports of a tourist getting fined in China for this, but you should still proceed with caution.

India doesn’t ban any VPNs, but the government has implemented data-sharing laws that have made it impossible for many VPNs to abide by their no-logs promises. As a result, many have removed their services from the country.

Can I use a VPN free trial on a FireStick?

You can use a VPN free trial on a FireStick if your VPN is compatible with one. Most of the VPNs in this list have native apps for FireStick. Since free trials are usually restricted to a certain device, you may need to use the money-back guarantee for this to work. However, you can always try to download the VPN app to your FireStick and sign in with your free trial credentials if you’re given them.

How do I cancel my VPN free trial?

There are a few ways. If you haven’t provided any payment details, your free trial will be canceled automatically. But, if the free trial you’ve chosen requires payment information, then there are a couple of ways you may need to cancel.

Some VPNs let you cancel without contacting customer support. You’ll usually find a link to cancel when logged in to your VPN account in your browser. Most of the time, you just fill in a form and receive an email confirming the refund.

You might also need to contact customer support. If your VPN has a 24/7 live chat service, it is usually easier to do it that way. Simply tell them that you want to cancel your free trial, and they’ll proceed with your request. Some VPNs may ask your reason for canceling for feedback purposes.

Also, keep in mind that the cancellation process for mobile devices can be different. If you subscribed to a VPN service through the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, you’ll have to cancel your subscription through them. You’ll also have to abide by their refund policy rather than the VPN’s guarantee. Sign up for a free trial through the provider’s website to avoid any difficulties.

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.

Can I stream using a free VPN trial?

It depends on the VPN. As long as your VPN has reliable servers for streaming, you should be able to access global content securely on the free trial. However, free trials often come with limitations that don’t allow you to use the complete service. For example, some don’t give you full access to its complete server network, so there may not be a suitable server for streaming.

All of the VPN free trials in this list are good options for streaming, but you might have to use the money-back guarantee to avoid limitations like data caps, limited servers, or speed limits.

Which VPN has the longest free trial?

A few of my listed VPNs offer free trials for up to 7 days — it’s uncommon to find a VPN trial for longer. If you’re looking for an extended trial, then the best option is to opt for a money-back guarantee instead. Many VPNs offer refund guarantees of at least 30 days. While you have to put money down, you won’t face the limitations that some free trials come with. Plus, I’ve personally tested each of these VPNs’ refund policies and can confirm they’re legit.

Another tip is to combine a free trial with a money-back guarantee to extend the amount of time you have to test the VPN. In most cases, you still qualify for a money-back guarantee if you continue with the service after your free trial.

Is there an unlimited VPN free trial?

I haven’t found a VPN free trial with no limitations. For an unlimited VPN trial, I recommend using a money-back guarantee instead. While you have to pay upfront, you can test the full service for a longer period, which allows you to really get to know the VPN. I tested the refund policies of each VPN in this list and it was easy to get my money back every time.

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, the best VPN free trials in 2024 are…

Rank
Provider
Our Score
Discount
Visit Website
1
medal
9.9 /10
9.9 Our Score
Save 49%!
2
9.7 /10
9.7 Our Score
Save 83%!
3
9.5 /10
9.5 Our Score
Save 82%!
4
9.6 /10
9.6 Our Score
Save 72%!
5
9.3 /10
9.3 Our Score
Save 86%!
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vpnMentor was established in 2014 to review VPN services and cover privacy-related stories. Today, our team of hundreds of cybersecurity researchers, writers, and editors continues to help readers fight for their online freedom in partnership with Kape Technologies PLC, which also owns the following products: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access which may be ranked and reviewed on this website. The reviews published on vpnMentor are believed to be accurate as of the date of each article, and written according to our strict reviewing standards that prioritize professional and honest examination of the reviewer, taking into account the technical capabilities and qualities of the product together with its commercial value for users. The rankings and reviews we publish may also take into consideration the common ownership mentioned above, and affiliate commissions we earn for purchases through links on our website. We do not review all VPN providers and information is believed to be accurate as of the date of each article.

About the Author

Keira is an experienced cybersecurity and tech writer dedicated to providing comprehensive insights on VPNs, online privacy, and internet censorship.

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