Free VPN vs. premium VPN

So, we know free VPN providers expose you to privacy threats & malware, but that’s not all. When it comes to free vs. paid VPNs, the differences are obvious in all areas. Here’s how free and paid services stack up:

	Free VPN	Paid VPN
Data limits	Most free VPNs limit the amount of data that users can use each month. It can be as low as 500 MB or less.	Almost all premium VPN providers have an unlimited data usage policy and never track or restrict your VPN usage.
Speed	Free VPNs often have slower speeds and may experience frequent connection drops or buffering issues due to cheaper infrastructure.	Paid VPNs offer faster and more reliable speeds, as they typically have more servers and less crowded networks.
Protocols & encryption	Free VPNs have weaker security features and may not use the strongest encryption or the safest VPN protocols. They are generally easier to hack.	Paid VPNs offer more robust security features than any other VPN. This includes stronger encryption protocols and additional security measures.
Features	Free VPNs are usually all about changing your IP address. They don't have additional features like an ad blocker or a kill switch.	Paid VPNs invest in premium features that give you a strong encrypted VPN connection.
Server locations	Free VPNs may have limited server options, making it more difficult to access content safely.	Paid VPNs offer a wider range of server locations, allowing users to pick their preferred server.
Customer support	Due to limited resources, free VPN service providers offer limited support options or none at all.	Paid VPNs usually offer 24/7 live customer support via chats, emails, or phone.
Privacy policy	Free VPNs might be based in countries with weak privacy protections and can collect & sell logs.	Paid VPNs are usually based in countries with strong privacy laws and offer tested and verified no-logs policies.
Price	While free VPNs don't ask you to pay, they still have to make a profit somehow, usually by collecting and selling your data.	Paid VPNs require a subscription fee. The prices differ from one VPN provider to another, so you have quite a few options.

It’s worth paying for a reputable VPN service offering unlimited data, faster speeds, and better security.

If you’re concerned about the risks associated with free VPNs but don’t want to jump into premium with both feet, consider a VPN free trial. This way, you can test the difference in security and performance without risking money.

How to choose a safe and reliable VPN service

First, as I mentioned earlier, to get a trustworthy VPN, you must do your research. How? Check out your selected VPN’s privacy policy. 

You should find all the information a VPN provider collects about you and where it goes. For maximum privacy, choose a VPN with a no-logs policy to ensure that everything you do while connected to a VPN stays with you. 

Next, check if the VPN provider has any audits that can prove their privacy claims. If the answer is yes, congrats, you found a safe and reliable VPN service. 

Final note: free VPNs do more harm than good, so opt for a premium VPN

While using a free VPN may seem like a cost-effective solution, it can expose you to a higher risk of malware. If you want to protect your device and data from potential attacks, use a paid VPN, like Surfshark, with the necessary resources, expertise, and robust security measures.