Software
ProtonVPN Review 2025: The Best Free VPN for Privacy and Security
ProtonVPN, created by the makers of ProtonMail, continues to lead in 2025 as the top free VPN with unlimited data and a strong focus on privacy. This review explores its main features, pros and cons, performance, security, and how it compares to other leading VPNs. Discover why ProtonVPN is the preferred choice for privacy-conscious users.
ProtonVPN, developed by the creators of the secure ProtonMail email service, stands out as a VPN that offers a truly free plan with no data limits. In 2025, ProtonVPN remains the number one choice for those searching for a reliable and free VPN that prioritizes privacy.
👉 This service is featured in our top 7 best VPNs for 2025.
Main Features
- Developer / Company: Proton AG (Switzerland)
- Server Network: 2,900+ servers in over 70 countries
- Speed & Stability: High on premium plans, limited on the free tier
- User Interface: Modern apps with multilingual support
- Device Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- ✅ Unlimited data on the free plan
- ✅ Based in Switzerland with strict privacy laws
- ✅ Open source clients and transparent codebase
- ✅ Secure Core support (double VPN routing through Switzerland/Iceland)
- ✅ Supports P2P and Tor over VPN
Cons:
- ❌ Free plan has speed limitations
- ❌ Free servers available only in 3 countries (USA, Netherlands, Japan)
- ❌ Premium plan required for Netflix streaming
Performance and Speed
The free ProtonVPN plan imposes speed limits, but it's suitable for basic browsing and work. Premium subscriptions enable smooth 4K streaming on Netflix and other services without lag. In 2025, ProtonVPN delivers stable performance and competes confidently with paid VPNs in terms of speed.
Security and Privacy
- Encryption: AES-256; protocols include OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard
- Features: Kill Switch, Secure Core (double VPN), Tor over VPN
- No-logs Policy: Strict no-logs, independently audited
- Open Source: All apps are open source
- Jurisdiction: Switzerland (outside 5/9/14 Eyes alliances)
Additional Features
- Secure Core: Routes traffic through hardened servers in Switzerland, Iceland, and Sweden
- Tor over VPN: Direct access to the Tor network via the VPN client
- NetShield: Blocks ads and malicious websites
- Free Plan: A unique, unlimited free offering among major VPNs
Who Is ProtonVPN For?
- Users seeking a reliable free VPN
- Activists, journalists, and anyone who values privacy
- People working in countries with censorship
- Those who value open source and transparency
Comparison with Competitors
- Unlike NordVPN and ExpressVPN, ProtonVPN provides a free plan.
- The unlimited data free plan gives it an edge over Windscribe and AtlasVPN.
- However, premium leaders like NordVPN and Surfshark offer higher speeds.
Conclusion
ProtonVPN is one of the most private and trustworthy VPNs on the market. Its free plan is a unique option for users who don't want to pay for basic protection. For advanced needs, upgrading to premium is recommended, but as a free VPN, ProtonVPN is unmatched.
Compare ProtonVPN with other top VPNs for 2025