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vpnMentor was established in 2014 as an independent site reviewing VPN services and covering 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 the independent, 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 as an independent site reviewing VPN services and covering 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 the independent, 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.

ClearVPN Review 2024: Is It Good and Can It Keep You Safe?

Our Score: 7.9/10
Ranked 55th out of 305 VPNs
Lawrence Wachira Updated on 28th March 2024 Fact-checked by Matthew Amos Senior Writer

ClearVPN markets itself as a VPN with a beautiful design and sleek interface. Plus, it claims to offer fast speeds and optimized servers for platforms like Netflix and Peacock. But can these perks overcome its drawbacks? Can such a small company stand a chance against the industry's top VPNs?

My thorough testing showed that ClearVPN is solid but not as good as our top-listed VPNs. It’s easy to use, delivers good speeds, and is excellent for accessing streaming platforms. Plus, it’s a decent choice for privacy and security, but there’s room for improvement. For example, I was unimpressed with its small server network and limited device compatibility. You can check out this list of our top-rated VPNs to find a more value-packed alternative.

Try ClearVPN Risk-Free >>

Short on Time? Here Are My Key Findings

Pros

Cons

ClearVPN Features — 2024 Update

8.2
💸 Price 0 USD/month
📆 Money Back Guarantee 30 Days
📝 Does VPN keep logs? No
🖥 Number of servers 100+
💻 Number of devices per license 6
🛡 Kill switch Yes
🗺 Based in country Ukraine
🛠 Support 24/7 live chat
📥 Supports torrenting Yes

Streaming — Excellent for Unblocking and Streaming

9.6

ClearVPN has dedicated servers for most major streaming platforms like Max and BBC iPlayer. All these servers worked well during my tests, although I experienced a few instances of buffering. While the VPN doesn't have a dedicated server for ITVX, I managed to access it using the one for BBC iPlayer. The standard UK server failed to unblock the platform.

You can’t directly connect to the US or the UK with the free app. Plus, its “Smart connection” feature automatically routed me to servers in France and Spain, which made it impossible to access some of the most popular platforms. This made it harder for me to test and will probably end up frustrating you if you try streaming on the free tier.

Unblocked: Peacock, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Max, Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and ESPN+

I easily accessed Peacock and watched several titles in great quality without buffering.

A screenshot of Peacock streaming The Secret Life of Pets while connected to ClearVPN's Peacock TV dedicated serverClearVPN’s PeacockTV dedicated server let me load the video in less than 10 seconds

Next, it let me stream Game Night on Hulu in 4K though I experienced a few instances of buffering.

A screenshot of Hulu streaming Game Night while connected to ClearVPN's Hulu dedicated serverOnly a handful of VPNs can unblock Hulu, so this is impressive

The VPN also worked well with BBC iPlayer.

A screenshot of BBC iPlayer streaming The Bold Type while connected to ClearVPN's BBC iPlayer dedicated serverBBC iPlayer streamed in crystal clear quality just as well as Hulu and ESPN+

I was similarly impressed by its specialized servers for Max and Disney+. They let me watch several titles, including Kim vs. Kanye: The Divorce, without any issues.

It was just as easy to unblock The Grand Tour on Amazon Prime Video with the dedicated server for the UK. The US location also let me watch several videos, but there were short buffering periods when I skipped around.

The Netflix servers in the US and UK also worked well during my tests. For example, the UK one let me view It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, a title that is exclusive to the UK library. Most VPNs only unblock Netflix Originals (a version of the site that has Netflix's own video content.), so this is impressive.

Overall, ClearVPN is an excellent choice for streaming if you get the premium version. But I didn’t have any luck accessing platforms with its free version. That’s too bad because it does come with unlimited data usage, unlike most free VPNs.

Speed — Fast Nearby; Slow on Far Away Servers

7.0

ClearVPN delivers impressive speeds connected to servers nearby and on some distant ones. All of our tests were done with the IKEv2 protocol because it was faster than OpenVPN.

We do our best to record all of our tests from a single location using the same internet connection, so we can make fair comparisons. Our UK-based specialist conducts tests on all the VPNs we review, with at least 10 tests per server.

A screenshot of ClearVPN's speeds across servers in Europe, North America, the Middle East, Asia, Oceania, South America, and Central America.On average, my speed dropped 9% on nearby servers and 48% on distant ones

The local server and the nearby one in France gave us the best results — only reducing our speeds by less than 7%. Surprisingly, the nearby server in Ukraine (about 2,000 km away) didn't fare as well. In fact, even more distant servers in the US and Canada outperformed it.

Unfortunately, the VPN doesn’t show server load, so I couldn’t tell if this was due to overcrowding.

For the other distant servers, the performance was lackluster; specifically, the ones in Australia, Malaysia, and Panama. These options decreased our tester’s speeds by 58%, 67%, and 92%, respectively. Such drops can make even regular browsing problematic.

A screenshot of Ookla speed tests done while connected to ClearVPN's Cyprus server and with no VPN connectedThis isn't impressive as its counterpart in the Middle East (Israel) delivered excellent speeds

On the other hand, the free servers are fast. My speed drops varied from 9.6% to 22% on both the free Ukraine server and two automatic selections with its “Smart connection” feature. While this is praiseworthy, it's worth noting that free servers often experience high traffic loads. So, I recommend using premium ones to maintain a consistently smooth experience.

ClearVPN did well on many servers, but the inconsistency can be a little annoying. There are a few top VPNs I’ve tested that drop my speeds by more than 55% on any server. If you’re looking for better speeds all around, you can choose one of the fastest VPNs we’ve tested from this list.

Gaming — Play Online Without Lag

8.6

ClearVPN worked well with all the online games I tried including Yu-Gi-Oh! Master Duel. Playing it was a joy — I was able to build my favorite decks and win matches without any issues. The VPN has no locations in Africa (where I’m located), but I was able to use its “Smart connection” option to get a fast server.

A screenshot showing playing Yu-Gi-Oh! Master Duel while connected to ClearVPN's France serverThe free servers also provided a solid gameplay experience with minimal lag

In the realm of online gaming, ping values determine the speed at which your data is transmitted. A low ping is crucial as it ensures prompt reactions to your in-game commands.

The premium server I used averaged a ping rate of 160 ms. A latency below 100 ms is recommended for a seamless gaming experience, so I didn’t think it would work so well. The results were even more impressive since it’s located 6,000+ km away from me. However, I can’t guarantee it will work as well for you.

Your results will mostly depend on your distance from its servers and what game you play. Lastly, the lack of data limits with its free plan makes this one of the best free VPNs for gaming I’ve seen.

Server Network — Limited Coverage but Offers Specialty Servers

4.8

ClearVPN has servers across 50 counties. Unfortunately, it doesn't give information on exactly how many servers it offers. This is one area where it lags behind its competitors. I was disappointed that I couldn’t really gauge the network's capacity and potential for server congestion.

A screenshot showing ClearVPN has dedicated servers for major streaming platforms like Netflix. Peacock, and HuluThe free version only offers access to the Megogo platform’s optimized location

The majority of these servers are in Europe, but you can also find servers in North America, Asia, the Middle East, and Oceania. There are no servers in Africa. Plus, it doesn’t let you choose a server at the city level, which is helpful for pinpointing your location more precisely. The free version only lets you use a Ukrainian server, auto-connect, and the 1 streaming location.

In the table below, you can see all its server locations:

Bulgaria Chile Norway United States Ukraine
Poland France Germany United Kingdom Sweden
Romania Ireland Spain Switzerland Belgium
UAE Singapore Malaysia Italy Australia
Netherlands Lithuania Denmark Canada Austria
Portugal Panama Latvia Iceland Greece
Brazil Israel Turkey Slovenia Moldova
Japan Czech Republic Hong Kong Cyprus India

It only has a single virtual location in India — the rest are physically located. Virtual servers help a VPN avoid having a footprint in countries with known security risks, so I’m glad it’s placed its Indian servers in Singapore.

The VPN leases all its servers. I usually prefer alternatives that own them as this removes the possibility of a third party that can misuse my private information. On top of that, it doesn’t offer RAM-based and private DNS servers, which add an extra layer of security. ClearVPN also doesn’t offer dedicated IPs — my go-to when I want to avoid annoying CAPTCHAS when browsing or streaming.

Overall, ClearVPN falls short in this category. You can get a VPN with an extensive server network full of more privacy features in this list.

Security — Secure Encryption, but Lacks Additional Features

7.0

ClearVPN uses advanced encryption and protocols, but there’s room for improvement. For example, it lacks a split tunneling feature and the speedy WireGuard protocol that many VPNs offer. Otherwise, it’s very solid in this category.

Advanced encryption

ClearVPN uses the industry-standard AES 256-bit encryption to secure your traffic. This is the same level used by top VPNs and various organizations, including banks and cybersecurity firms.

It also utilizes Perfect Forward Secrecy for OpenVPN. IKEv2 doesn't have it yet, but the VPN is actively working to integrate it. This feature regularly changes your encryption keys. So, even if an older key is ever breached, your data remains protected through a freshly created one.

Security Protocols

At the moment, it limits you to IKEv2 and OpenVPN. IKEv2 is good in specific cases, as it’s fast and suitable for mobile devices since it can quickly reestablish connections. OpenVPN is the safest protocol around because it’s open source, meaning it’s constantly being checked for vulnerabilities by experts .

Unfortunately, depending on your region, you may not be able to choose a protocol. ClearVPN will automatically pick the one that it believes offers the best balance between speed and security based on network conditions in these situations.

DNS, IP, and WebRTC Leaks

Every server I tested using OpenVPN was leak-proof. It offers protection against the leaks listed above along with IPv4 and IPv6, as well as security measures to prevent DDoS attacks.

A screenshot showing ClearVPN passed DNS and IP leak testsI repeatedly checked these servers throughout the day to confirm they were leak-free

When I selected the IKEv2 protocol, I found that I was prone to DNS leaks. Plus, I couldn't use the kill switch with the same protocol. I notified the support team, and they assured me they'd look into it.

Kill Switch

This feature makes sure you’re never online without an encrypted connection. It quickly terminated my internet connection whenever I switched to a new server, preventing data leaks. You have to enable it, and I recommend you do so before turning the VPN on.

During my test, the kill switch only worked with OpenVPN. However, the support team made me aware of a glitch that occurs with IKEv2 on Windows. As a precaution, ClearVPN has temporarily deactivated this flexibility until it releases a fix.

With the recent release of ClearVPN2, it’s possible more glitches could arise. Thankfully, it never leaked my IP, so I still believe in the strength of ClearVPN’s security. I also appreciate how quickly support got on the issue.

Ad Blocker

I found its ad blocker effective during my tests. On ad-intensive websites such as www.speedtest.net and FileHippo, I didn’t see any pop-ups, notifications, or banners. But I do wish it was more clearly labeled in the app. To activate it, you have to click Smart connection and choose Top protection.

Privacy — Transparent Policy but Still Unproven

8.0

ClearVPN doesn't store any personal data when you're connected to its servers, and I appreciate how clear its policies are. However, some people could feel uncomfortable with its headquarters. Plus, its policy hasn't undergone independent verification yet, so it’s still not quite as privacy-friendly as the highest-ranked VPNs.

Does ClearVPN Keep Logs? No

It doesn’t collect any identifiable logs. However, with your permission, it does gather certain details like your device ID, along with anonymous analytics such as crash reports and speed test data. But, you can opt out if you're uneasy with this.

A screenshot showing ClearVPN doesn't log sensitive information like IP address, traffic logs, and bandwidth usageClearVPN erases your data within 30 days of your exit or earlier if requested

The system gathers certain cellular details and basic usage statistics. It records the day of your connection (though not the specific time), the server you connect to, and the originating country. Additionally, it logs the version of your operating system and the name of your device.

It still doesn’t log any of your identifiable information, but this feels excessive, and I hope the VPN reduces it. Plus, it'd be great if ClearVPN accepted cryptocurrency, so you could pay anonymously.

Was ClearVPN Audited? No

ClearVPN's apps and privacy policies haven't undergone external verification so far. While the VPN has earned some cybersecurity awards, these don't serve as conclusive proof of its privacy measures. Top VPNs use independent third parties to authenticate their claims, and I hope ClearVPN considers this approach in the future.

Based in Ukraine

ClearVPN's parent company (MacPaw) is based in Ukraine, which is a privacy-friendly country with no data retention laws. However, its presence in the US (within the 5 Eyes alliance) raises some concerns. It only has an office in the country, but this makes me worry that it could be forced to change its policies in the future. Luckily, there have been no controversies related to ClearVPN so far.

Does ClearVPN Work in China? No

ClearVPN doesn’t operate in China, meaning you can’t use it to access services like WhatsApp and CNN while there.

A screenshot showing ClearVPN's support team confirming the VPN doesn't works in ChinaFrom my experience, only a select few VPNs can successfully access global content from China

Although the Chinese government has banned many VPNs, it usually goes after the technology rather than individual users. However, I strongly advise reading up on the country's laws before making a decision to use a VPN there. If you so choose, try a VPN from this list that’s proven to work in China.

Torrenting — Good on the Premium Version

7.0

ClearVPN let me download an 816 MB file in 21 minutes and 17 seconds. Without a VPN it takes 12 minutes and 17 seconds to download the same file. This was a decent result, especially since I couldn’t find a nearby server. It doesn’t have locations in Kenya (where I’m based) or anywhere in Africa, so I relied on its Smart connection to automatically use the fastest server available. All its servers are P2P-friendly, which should make it easier to connect to the nearest one to maintain short download times.

The performance of its free version (with no bandwidth cap) wasn’t as impressive — it finished the download process in 35 minutes and 59 seconds. Maybe the experience would have been different if I could have connected to a nearby server.

However, it’s possible to maintain impressive download speeds using a VPN with a fast global network from this list. On a positive note, ClearVPN’s strong security features, such as the kill switch and leak protection, made me feel secure while downloading torrents.

Torrenting is legal in most countries, but downloading copyrighted materials without permission isn't. My team and I don’t condone any illegal activities, so I recommend you only download files that are in the public domain to steer clear of legal issues.

Installation & Apps

8.4

Installation & Apps — Sleek Apps but Limited to the Most Popular Operating Systems

ClearVPN’s interface is clean and modern, with a focus on simplicity and usability. The main screen features 3 main buttons: Location changer, Smart connection, and Streaming. There’s also a gear option that takes you to the settings menu.

A screenshot showing ClearVPN's interface is consistent across Mac and Windows appsThe intuitive layout makes it so easy to customize ClearVPN’s app and navigate its features

The Smart connection eliminates the need to tweak complex VPN settings or manually choose servers. It features 3 presets designed for different online tasks:

  • No restrictions. This changes your IP address and connects you to servers in countries with lenient internet restrictions.
  • Fastest server. Use this preset if you want to browse, stream, or torrent at top speed. It connects you to the quickest server based on your location.
  • Top protection. It filters out ads for you and also connects you to servers situated in the world's most secure countries.

With the free version, you can only use the No restrictions and Fastest server options to connect to recommended servers.

Setup & Installation

Every app I tested was installed and connected to a server in under 5 minutes. Windows and Mac apps are available for download from its website. For mobile, you can find them on the App or Play Store.

A screenshot showing ClearVPN's download page along with the operating systems supported by each app.You need Windows 10 (version 1809) or higher to use ClearVPN

I hope ClearVPN will consider offering apps for Windows 7, 8, and all versions of Windows 10, so as not to exclude any users. Many leading VPNs already offer support for these platforms, but this will become less relevant as new versions are designed in the future.

Device Compatibility

At the moment, ClearVPN only works on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. It doesn’t support Linux, FireStick, or browser extensions, and cannot be set up on a router. If you want to secure all your WiFi-enabled devices, check out this list of the best VPNs for routers.

On top of that, it lacks a smart DNS feature, so there’s no option to switch locations on devices that don’t natively support VPNs, like certain smart TVs and gaming consoles.

Desktop — Apps for Windows and Mac

ClearVPN’s native apps for Windows and Mac have the same set of features. However, the Mac version has the added benefit of a shortcut option that is absent in the Windows app.

Android and iPhone (iOS)

It also has dedicated apps for Android and iOS that closely mirror the desktop version. Unfortunately, ClearVPN currently doesn’t offer an APK file, so you can’t use it on devices that don’t support the Play Store.

Simultaneous Device Connections

ClearVPN supports 6 simultaneous device connections. Some VPNs like PIA, offer unlimited connections, but 6 is normally enough for me. I put this capability to the test by using the VPN at the same time across 4 different devices — 3 Android phones and 1 laptop. All were connected to the same France server, and I was able to watch several videos on YouTube without any hiccups.

Pricing

8.8
3 Days Free
$ 0 / month per month
1 Year
$ 3.75 / month per month
1 Month
$ 9.99 / month per month

Pricing — Low-Cost Options

ClearVPN is a good value for your money if you're after a simple VPN. It’s safe, privacy-friendly, fast on many servers, and works great for streaming. The app is also very pretty and straightforward to use. In addition, it’s cheaper than the top VPNs if you compare term lengths. However, many of them do offer lower monthly fees if you choose a tier that’s one year or longer.

There are 3 tiers in total: 3 days, 1 Year, and 1 month, all backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. This means you can try ClearVPN and claim a refund if you’re unsatisfied. However, remember, this only applies to purchases made directly from their official website or the online MacPaw Store.

A screenshot ClearVPN processes refundsI received a no-questions asked refund, which hit my bank in 4 days

I recommend choosing the 6-month plan because it’s the most cost-effective, starting at $0/month. However, you can opt for the short-term one if you only plan to use the VPN for a few days. Plus, inviting friends can earn you a discount or up to 75 days of premium service at no cost.

While the free version supports up to 6 simultaneous device connections, it limits you to a single standard server and is slower. However, ClearVPN also offers a 3-day free trial, which lets you explore the full premium experience.

You can only pay via debit card (Visa, Mastercard), Apple Pay, and Google Pay. This is quite restrictive compared to other VPNs I've tested, and I hope ClearVPN expands its payment methods. It’s also included in the Setapp subscription, which is a plus for Apple users who want to access more apps for a fraction of the price.

Reliability & Support

9.4

Reliability and Support — Friendly and Always Ready To Help

ClearVPN offers 24/7 live chat and email support. Even on weekends, I managed to connect with a live agent in under 5 minutes.

For detailed inquiries, the email route is the best way to get in touch with the VPN's technical team but be prepared to wait a little longer for a response. On some occasions, this extended to over 10 hours.

A screenshot showing ClearVPN's support team provides comprehensive and honest answers to inquiries madeThis wasn’t an issue for me because I used OpenVPN for activities like torrenting

There's an extensive FAQ section and numerous informative articles that offer additional insights. I found these resources incredibly helpful and suggest reviewing them before reaching out to the VPN, as they cover the majority of questions you might have.

Compare ClearVPN With The Top Alternative VPNs
Our Score: 9.9
Our Score: 9.7
Our Score: 9.5
Our Score: 9.4

The Bottom Line

Final Verdict — Very Good but With a Few Snags

ClearVPN is a solid VPN with great potential. It has dedicated servers for mainstream streaming platforms, pretty good speeds, and essential security features. The VPN also doesn’t log sensitive information, is good for gaming, has intuitive apps, and reliable customer support.

However, there are a few drawbacks. Its server network is small, and it doesn’t support routers or other devices apart from the most popular ones. So, ClearVPN has a ton of potential to be one of the best someday. But, you can find a VPN that surpasses ClearVPN in every aspect from this list.

  • Excellent for streaming
  • Good for gaming
  • Robust protection
  • Easy-to-use apps
  • Reliable customer support
  • Limited free version

FAQs on ClearVPN

Is ClearVPN safe?

Yes, ClearVPN keeps you safe with a range of security features commonly found in top VPNs. This includes AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and leak protection. This makes it a reliable choice for ensuring your online safety while browsing, streaming, or torrenting.

Can ClearVPN unblock Netflix?

Yes, ClearVPN can unblock Netflix. It has dedicated servers that reliably let me access full Netflix libraries. Its specialty servers for services like Max, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer also performed well during my tests.

Is ClearVPN free?

ClearVPN offers a free version that is very limited. However, there’s a 3-day free trial that grants you complete access to everything it offers. Additionally, all plans come with a trustworthy money-back guarantee, allowing you to test the service with peace of mind.

Which VPNs are better than ClearVPN?

ExpressVPN and CyberGhost excel beyond ClearVPN in various aspects. Both boast extensive networks, more security features, and high-speed servers. That said, ClearVPN stands out with user-friendly apps and exceptional unblocking capability.

Money Back Guarantee (Days): 30
Mobile app:
Number of devices per license: 6
VPN Plans: clearvpn.com
We review vendors based on rigorous testing and research but also take into account your feedback and our affiliate commission with providers. Some providers are owned by our parent company.
Learn more
vpnMentor was established in 2014 as an independent site reviewing VPN services and covering 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 the independent, 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.
ClearVPN User Reviews (User reviews are not verified)
7.3
Based on 3 reviews in 2 languages

Write a Review on ClearVPN

Please rate VPN.

All Speed Streaming Security Сustomer service
Sho
Sho
10/10
Realy Clear VPN

ClearVPN is a gamechanger in the VPN industry. With its user-friendly interface and advanced features, it offers a streamlined experience for all users. Smart Connection automatically selects the best server for optimal performance. With cross-platform compatibility and responsive customer support, ClearVPN is the go-to VPN for simplified online security.

Nick
Nick
10/10
One of the most intuitive VPNs

ClearVPN is a really simple yet powerful service. Probably the best VPN I've ever used. Love how its UI makes it easy to understand what you need to do to achieve the desired result. Also, the connection speed on my MacBook doesn't suffer any losses when using the VPN. So it's really good!

Anonymous
Anonymous
2/10
опасное средство после некоторых заяалений

Недавно они предоставлять стали ВПН украинцам через электронную подпись, то есть по паспорту, фактически это может быть сделано для слежки за пользователями, что очень похоже, иначе зачем регистрация через кабинет гос услуг Дия? По моему это ужасный звоночек, надеюсь, мои предположения это лишь предположения, но очень нездраво это выглядит.

About the Author

Lawrence Wachira, a Senior Writer at vpnMentor, is passionate about making the internet safer. Lawrence writes insightful product reviews, comparison pages, and blog posts to help readers protect their online privacy and choose the best VPNs.

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