ProtonVPN Review 2025 – Is It Still the Best Free VPN?

What Is ProtonVPN?

ProtonVPN is a highly secure virtual private network (VPN) service created by the makers of ProtonMail. With a strong focus on privacy and transparency, ProtonVPN encrypts your internet traffic and hides your IP address—ensuring anonymous browsing and protection from surveillance.

Whether you’re a casual browser or a security-conscious user, ProtonVPN has plans designed to meet your privacy needs—including a free tier with no data caps.

💰 ProtonVPN Pricing Plans

ProtonVPN offers flexible pricing based on your needs:

💡 The Free Plan is ideal for basic secure browsing, while Plus and Visionary unlock advanced privacy tools and streaming features.

🌍 Server Locations & Global Reach

With 2,000+ servers in 65+ countries, ProtonVPN provides:

  • Worldwide access to fast, stable connections

  • Support for geo-unblocking streaming services

  • Strong presence in privacy-friendly regions

📍 You can connect to servers in privacy-respecting countries like Switzerland and Iceland, adding an extra layer of protection.

🖥️ Security Protocols & Encryption

ProtonVPN ensures strong data protection with modern protocols:

  • OpenVPN – Reliable and widely supported

  • IKEv2/IPsec – Ideal for mobile and quick reconnections

  • Strong AES-256 encryption to guard your data

🔐 These protocols help maintain secure, stable VPN connections, even on public Wi-Fi networks.

⭐ Trustpilot Reputation

  • Trustpilot Score: 3.4 / 5

  • Users appreciate ProtonVPN's no-logs policy, reliable encryption, and the free tier. Some express concerns about speed on free servers.

#️ Jurisdiction: Based in Switzerland

ProtonVPN is located in Switzerland, a country with strong privacy laws and no mandatory data retention. It’s also outside the Fourteen Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance.

✅ This makes ProtonVPN a solid choice for users seeking strong legal privacy protections.

🏷️ Key Features of ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN includes several powerful privacy tools:

  • 🔐 Secure Core – Routes your traffic through privacy-focused countries

  • 🌐 Tor Over VPN – Access the Tor network via ProtonVPN servers

  • 🔀 Split Tunneling – Choose which apps go through the VPN

  • ❌ No-Log Policy – No tracking, no logs, fully transparent

  • 🛡️ Kill Switch & DNS Leak Protection – Keeps your IP and DNS requests private if the VPN drops

😎 Who Should Use ProtonVPN?

ProtonVPN is best for:

  • 🧠 Privacy advocates who want full control over their online footprint

  • 🎓 Students and budget users seeking a free yet secure VPN

  • 📧 Users who already trust ProtonMail and want to expand their privacy tools

  • 📺 Streaming users (on the Plus Plan) who want to access blocked content abroad

💻 Platform Compatibility

ProtonVPN supports all major operating systems:

  • Windows, macOS, Linux

  • iOS & Android

  • Browser support via configuration

  • Can be installed on routers and smart TVs

⚙️ Apps are user-friendly for beginners, but also include advanced settings for tech-savvy users.

❓ ProtonVPN FAQs

1. Is ProtonVPN free to use?

Yes, ProtonVPN offers a free plan with no data limits. However, it only gives access to a few server locations and does not support features like Secure Core or streaming. Paid plans unlock all features and faster speeds.

2. How does ProtonVPN protect my privacy?

ProtonVPN uses:

  • No-logs policy

  • AES-256 encryption

  • Swiss jurisdiction

  • Secure Core & Tor over VPN

These combined features make ProtonVPN one of the most secure options on the market.

3. How many devices can I use with ProtonVPN?

  • Free Plan: 1 device

  • Basic Plan: 2 devices

  • Plus Plan: 10 devices

  • Visionary Plan: 10 devices + ProtonMail premium features

✅ Final Verdict

ProtonVPN is a top choice for privacy-conscious users who want a trusted provider with transparent policies. The free version makes it accessible for all, while the Plus plan unlocks faster servers and advanced security tools.