The best no-log VPNs of 2024: Expert tested and reviewed

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What is the best no-log VPN in 2024?

ZDNET's top no-log VPN this year is NordVPN. NordVPN combines strong security, excellent speeds, and a vast server network with a no-logs policy and a transparent approach to privacy that many users trust.

Also: The best VPN services: Expert tested

ZDNET writers have tested and reviewed VPNs for years. We rely on our experiences with the best VPNs on the market, frequent speed tests, and customer feedback to recommend the top VPNs you should consider before signing up. Below, you will find our selection of the best no-log VPNs.

The best no-log VPNs in 2024

NordVPN

Best no-logs VPN overall

NordVPN is one of our top picks in the VPN market. While we would like to see support for unlimited simultaneous connections added in the future, NordVPN still stands out due to its excellent speeds, server network of over 110 countries, and multi-platform compatibility.

NordVPN operates a strict no-logs policy that has been validated multiple times since 2018. Deloitte verified the policy's claims in 2023. Furthermore, NordVPN is based in Panama, which does not enforce any data retention laws that would force the VPN provider to abandon this policy.

Also: NordVPN review

We've consistently found that NordVPN provides a stable, solid server network, fantastic speeds, and good connection times. Customers say this VPN is easy to use and that customer support is prompt and friendly.

If you're interested in trying out NordVPN, the biggest savings can be found on two-year contracts, starting at $3.59 per month. If you agree to such a contract you should also get three months of free access. Alternatively, one-year plans begin at $4.99 per month, or one month of access costs $12.99.

NordVPN features: Simultaneous connections: 10 | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, tvOS, and routers | Countries: 111 | Kill switch: Yes | Logging: Email address and billing information only | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days on Android

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Mullvad VPN

Best transparent no-logs VPN

Mullvad VPN is a lesser-known VPN provider, but its customers know the organization takes privacy and security seriously.

Based in Sweden and protected by strict data privacy laws, Mullvad operates a strict no-logs policy and does not collect or store activity logs. While payment data may be processed (and protected by local laws, including GDPR), the company focuses on user anonymity, going so far as to number accounts rather than ask you for personal details, such as your email address.

Furthermore, we've seen how Mullvad deals with law enforcement requests. When subjected to a search warrant in 2023, Mullvad discussed the situation publicly and confirmed that while police intended to seize computers with customer data, no such devices existed for them to take.

We like how easy this VPN is to use and its upfront pricing structure, although it would be great to see an expanded server network in the future. Customers like the transparent nature of this VPN and its provider but would like to see more advanced features in the future.

Mullvad offers a fixed pricing structure without changes or promotional deals. This way, you know whether you want a month, a year, or a decade of service, you will pay €5 ($5.48) per month.

Mullvad VPN features: Simultaneous connections: 5 | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Fedora Android TV, Fire TV, routers, and browser extensions | Countries: 47 | Kill switch: Yes | Logging: Numbered accounts, billing in accordance with law | Money-back guarantee: 30 days, some payment methods | Trial: No

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Proton VPN

Best free no-logs VPN

Protected by Swiss privacy laws, Proton VPN is another great VPN if you want a service that prioritizes security and privacy -- even on its free plan.

Proton VPN operates a no-logs policy and does not collect or store data such as activity logs or session duration records. This VPN is also open-source, which means that any third party can examine its code for security or privacy flaws. We've picked this VPN as one of the best options if you want a free plan, because while limited, it is backed by paid subscribers -- meaning you aren't trading your data for the service.

Also: Proton VPN

In general, customers like Proton's attitude to security and privacy, and many like the user interface. Although Trustpilot ratings are low, the feedback primarily relates to the firm's free plan limitations and customer support system. Despite this, as a free plan, Proton VPN is one of the few we recommend as a trustworthy service.

Proton VPN's pricing is reasonable, but not as cheap as some of its competitors. Plans lasting two years offer the best value for money and are priced at $4.49 per month. Alternatively, annual plans cost $4.99 per month, whereas one month of service is $9.99.

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Private Internet Access

Best no-logs VPN with unlimited connections

Private Internet Access, also known as PIA, is another of our favorite no-logs VPNs. Not only is this service open-source, but its stringent privacy policy is frequently audited by independent parties, including Deloitte, verifying that PIA does not collect or store your data.

PIA also makes use of RAM-only servers, which removes traces of online activity.

Also: Private Internet Access review

During our speed tests, PIA performed reasonably well, and we like the fact that this VPN provides unlimited simultaneous connections for its price point. Customers, in particular, applaud its Linux support.

PIA is a consistently affordable option. The best deal right now is for two-year contracts, which cost only $2.19 per month and come with two months of free service. You can also sign up for six months for the equivalent of $7.50 per month, or try out the VPN for one month for $11.99.

Private Internet Access features: Simultaneous connections: Unlimited | Kill switch: Yes | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, tvOS, routers, Fire TV, and NAS | Countries: 91 | Logging: No-logs policy | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days, Android and iOS

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ExpressVPN

Best no-logs VPN for speed, service

If speed and customer service -- alongside a strict no-logs policy -- is what you're after, consider ExpressVPN.

ExpressVPN also operates a strict no-logs policy and will not collect or store personal data, including browsing history, traffic records, DNS queries, or IP addresses. The company uses RAM-only servers for additional data protection, and independent audits of its no-logs policy have been conducted since 2019.

Also: ExpressVPN review

We like this VPN's speed. It always performs well on our speed tests, often taking center stage as the best on offer, with a robust server network as a bonus. We would, however, like to see the price reduced, and this sentiment is reflected in customer reviews.

It is an excellent service but not the cheapest, with annual plans priced at $6.67 per month. Three months of free access are included. If you want to sign up for a six-month contract, you will pay $6.66 per month. One month of service is priced at $12.95.

Express VPN now also offers dedicated IP addresses for $3.19 per month.

ExpressVPN features: Simultaneous connections: 8 | Kill switch: Yes | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Linux, Fire TV, Android TV, tvOS, and routers | Countries: 105 | Logging: No browsing logs, some connection logs | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days on Android and iOS

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Also: The best streaming VPNs: Expert tested

No-logs VPN	No-logs policy?	Warrant canary?	Server network	Price
NordVPN	✓	✓/transparency reports	111	$3.59/month
Mullvad VPN	✓	News publications	47	$5.48/month
Proton VPN	✓	✓	91	$4.49/month
Private Internet Access	✓	Transparency reports	91	$2.19/month
ExpressVPN	✓	Transparency reports	105	$6.67/month

A VPN service is a virtual private network that encrypts your internet traffic, hides your IP address, and provides a relatively anonymous and secure connection. The point of a VPN is to make it more difficult for people to eavesdrop on you or monitor your online activities, but there is little point in using a VPN if your information is being collected or exposed.

That's why choosing a no-logs VPN is crucial. Some free VPN providers offer a VPN in exchange for your data and records, negating the whole point of a VPN. That's why you should pick a paid plan from a reputable VPN with a no-logs policy.

How to set up a no-log VPN

Once you've chosen the VPN you want to install, head to an official software repository -- such as Apple's App Store or the Google Play Store -- or directly to the VPN's website, which should have links to all the download sources.

June Wan/ZDNET

Downloaded the app and install it. You may have to provide the VPN with specific device permissions. Once the software is installed, open it and log in with your credentials, QR code, or one-time passcode.

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Select a country or choose quick connect, and you're done.

Many providers recommended in this list have been subject to in-depth testing and reviews by the ZDNET team. We've been talking about VPNs for years, spoken with their management and their users, and developed a generally favorable impression.

ZDNET tests VPN services from multiple locations, but we can't test from all locations. Every home, community, local ISP, and nation has a different infrastructure.

We analyzed the no-log best VPNs below using the following criteria that are most important in helping you make an informed decision:

No-logs policies: We thoroughly examined the transparency and security standards of each VPN we recommend. Each VPN must operate a no-logs policy and keep user data collection to a minimum.Security: There's no point in using a VPN unless its security protocols and encryption levels are up to scratch. We also ensured the development team behind each recommended VPN cares about making security improvements and patching reported bugs.Performance: Our top VPNs must have a minimum level of performance. After all, there's no point in using a VPN if your connection continually drops or lags.Simultaneous connections: Many VPNs limit the number of devices you can connect at the same time. If you have a phone, tablet, laptop, desktop, or smart TV you want to connect to a VPN, you need a service that allows at least five or six simultaneous connections.Kill switch: A kill switch prevents you from having an unprotected connection. It is an important feature for a VPN, as it protects you by preventing a return to a default Wi-Fi connection should your internet connection unexpectedly drop.Geo-blocks and streaming: VPNs can be key to accessing local content and services while you're away from home. We ensured that our top recommendations performed well given these factors and are unlikely to slow down your connection while streaming. Platforms: What systems and devices can you run the VPN on? Our no-logs VPN recommendations naturally have to offer easy-to-use and intuitive apps.Support: As with any subscription software, you may encounter problems with installing apps, using the service, renewing, or canceling. We list VPNs with an available support team.Countries and servers: In how many different countries does the VPN have servers? This can include physical and virtual servers, and whether there are enough -- at least 50 or so -- to provide variety.Trial length and price: Each VPN we recommend has a solid money-back guarantee.

For a more extensive breakdown, check out our comprehensive VPN testing methodology page.

Choose this VPN...	If you want...
NordVPN	The best overall no-logs VPN. NordVPN provides the whole package: robust security, speed, and a validated no-logs policy.
Mullvad VPN	A transparent no-logs VPN. Mullvad is based in Sweden and subject to strict data protection laws. The company is transparent in regard to police activities.
Proton VPN	A free VPN focused on security and privacy. While the free plan is limited, it is backed by paid subscribers, so your data should not be collected and sold.
Private Internet Access	A no-logs VPN with unlimited connections. PIA is open-source, uses RAM-only servers, and is known for its stringent approach to security.
ExpressVPN	A speedy no-logs VPN. ExpressVPN provides fantastic speeds and is easy to use, and audits have been conducted to verify its no-logs policy.

When you are selecting your new no-logs VPN, consider the following factors:

Privacy: It is important that your new VPN takes user privacy and security seriously. Look for no-logs pledges, transparent security reports, warrant canaries, and practices like frequent patch updates.Price: You need to consider the overall price of your new VPN plan. Try to take advantage of promotions, but ignore countdown timers -- they typically are just marketing tools. While top-notch VPNs can cost upwards of $10 per month, many are available for only a few dollars. Many VPN providers will also offer free, limited mobile app trials. We recommend that you avoid free VPNs -- with a few exceptions -- as they may sell your data or bombard you with ads.Simultaneous connections: If you're paying for a VPN, you might want to use it across multiple devices, such as a desktop, a laptop, or smartphone. We recommend that you sign up for a plan supporting at least six devices. Thankfully, many paid VPN plans now offer unlimited connections.Contract length: You must also decide how long you want to use a VPN. If you opt for a two-year term, you tend to secure the best prices, but other options are available. After you've made a selection, you typically have a 30-day money-back guarantee.Apps: When selecting a VPN, you should consider what devices you want to protect. For example, if you have a Windows PC and an iPhone, take a look at the apps on offer to see if you like their user interfaces and functions.

FAQs

A no-logs policy ensures that a VPN will not log your activity, including the websites you visit, the online services you access, or DNS queries when your requests are sent through its server network.

A no-logs policy doesn't mean that the VPN provider doesn't log all traffic and data. For example, a VPN provider may still log your VPN usage records, sessions, and billing information. They may also be required to log some customer information to comply with the laws of the country they are headquartered in.

The police can request user information from a VPN provider in the same way they do for any other organization. With a court order, the VPN vendor will have to comply, but the information they can provide depends on their logging activities.

Law enforcement may be able to detect VPN use and may investigate IP addresses associated with you, but it's highly unlikely they would go down this route unless you are suspected of involvement in illegal activity. Remember, a VPN is not a foolproof privacy barrier and does not guarantee full anonymity.

To check if your VPN is safe and working properly, first choose a reputable vendor known to have a strong security background.

Next, compare your IP address before and after enabling a VPN connection. You can find this under your device's settings (typically under Wi-Fi) or by visiting whatismyipaddress.com. If they both display the same IP address, your VPN may not be working properly.

You can also visit dnsleaktest.com to see if any DNS leaks are detected while you are using a VPN, which could be a sign that your information is being leaked.

Finally, be careful with free VPNs offered by unknown or shady companies, especially if they are outside of official app repositories. This could open your device to surveillance or malware.

Yes, no-logs VPN services are legal in the US, but the legality of using VPNs varies from country to country.

It is important to check the laws of your location before using a VPN. Some countries ban their use outright, such as North Korea, Belarus, and Iraq, whereas other countries, including Russia and China, frown upon using any non-state-controlled VPN.

For a list of countries where VPN usage is illegal, check out NordVPN's guide.

Potentially, yes. If your VPN is working properly, your data and activities are hidden within an encrypted tunnel, and you have improved protection and anonymity online, but this doesn't mean that your browsing history isn't logged through your browser or that monitoring software on corporate PCs isn't logging your activities. Corporate VPNs may also log your website visits.

Our recommendations above are the best no-logs-focused VPNs on the market today. If they aren't quite right for your particular needs, there are other trustworthy options below.

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