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Best Free Alternatives to ExpressVPN
Stop paying $12.99 - $19.99/mo. Discover professional-grade tools that won't break your budget.
Category: Security & PrivacyVerified for 2025
Top Recommended Replacements
Proton VPN
FREEBest Overall Alternative
Why we like it
Unlimited data on the free tier; open-source and Swiss-based; includes 'Secure Core' multi-hop and a built-in 'Stealth' protocol to bypass censorship.
Keep in mind
The free tier does not allow you to pick a specific country (it auto-connects to the fastest local server).
Mullvad VPN
Best for Radical Anonymity
Why we like it
No accounts—only random 16-digit numbers; accepts cash in an envelope or Monero; no 'intro' pricing or renewal traps; ultra-transparent audits.
Keep in mind
Not a good choice for streaming (frequently blocked by Netflix/Max); lacks the 'extra' features like a password manager.
Windscribe
FREEBest for Customization
Why we like it
10GB free data per month; 'R.O.B.E.R.T' server-side domain blocker; can pay $1 for access to specific country servers rather than a full sub.
Keep in mind
The UI is more complex than ExpressVPN's 'one-button' approach; based in Canada (5-Eyes jurisdiction).
Tailscale
FREEBest for Personal 'Mesh' Networks
Why we like it
Allows you to create your own private network between your home PC, phone, and laptop; uses WireGuard natively; free for personal use up to 100 devices.
Keep in mind
Technically not a 'commercial' VPN for spoofing your location to another country unless you set up your own 'Exit Node' at home.
IVPN
Best for Ethical Transparency
Why we like it
Audited no-logs policy; no affiliate program (meaning reviews aren't 'bought'); supports multi-hop; very fast WireGuard implementation.
Keep in mind
Higher price point than budget brands like Surfshark; no free tier available.
Tor Browser
FREEBest for Censorship Resistance
Why we like it
The gold standard for untraceable browsing; routes traffic through three layers of volunteer nodes; completely free and decentralized.
Keep in mind
Extremely slow for streaming or large downloads; many websites block Tor nodes automatically.
Surfshark
Best for Multi-Device Homes
Why we like it
Unlimited simultaneous connections; dynamic multi-hop; includes 'Alternative ID' to create fake online personas for privacy.
Keep in mind
Aggressive renewal pricing after the first 2 years; based in a 9-Eyes jurisdiction (Netherlands).
RiseupVPN
FREEBest Activist-Focused VPN
Why we like it
Run by a non-profit collective; does not track you; easy-to-use Bitmask client; designed for journalists and activists.
Keep in mind
Very few server locations; speeds are much slower than commercial providers; no specialized streaming support.
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