Many popular VPN services offer proxy extensions for Chrome to protect browser traffic, but the search for the best free VPNs for Chrome continues. These free VPN proxy services hide your IP address to access restricted sites and content. However, free VPNs pose privacy risks and lack premium security features, so be careful. Personal data may be sold to data brokers and advertisers, raising concerns about these seemingly cost-effective alternatives’ safety.
The challenge is finding the best free VPNs for Chrome that balance accessibility and data security as users look to boost their online presence without breaking the bank. Site isolation, predictive phishing protections, and sandboxing are some of the free security features that come with Chrome. However, these features don’t completely protect your data online. A free VPN service is the best way to hide what sites you visit without spending any money. Here is a list of the best free VPNs for Chrome.
What is a VPN?
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a type of technology that hides users’ IP addresses while they connect to websites and use online services. By encrypting data sent between the user’s device and the VPN server, it improves privacy and security by stopping outsiders from spying on or stealing sensitive data.
Benefits of using a free VPN for Chrome
There are many reasons to use a free VPN (Virtual Private Network) extension for Chrome. This is especially true for people who want to protect their privacy and safety online. Here are some possible benefits:
Protecting your privacy: A VPN helps encrypt your internet connection, which makes it harder for other people to watch what you do online. It is especially important to do this when using public Wi-Fi networks, where hackers may be more likely to get to your data.
Access to Content That Is Inaccessible: Free VPNs can help users get around geo-blocks and see content that is blocked or limited in some places. This includes websites, streaming services, and other online content that you might not be able to access from where you are.
Anonymity and Identity Protection: VPNs can hide your IP address, which makes you less visible. This can help keep your identity safe and make it harder for websites and other online services to keep track of what sites you visit and how often.
Safe Browsing: VPNs encrypt your internet traffic, which makes it harder for hackers and other bad people to steal your information and use it against you. This is especially helpful when you’re on private websites or making purchases online.
Use of Public Wi-Fi Safely: When you connect to public Wi-Fi networks, cyber threats may be able to access your data. By encrypting your connection, a VPN lowers the chance that someone will be able to get into your account without your permission when you’re on public Wi-Fi.
Best Free VPNs for Chrome Comparison Table
Free Chrome VPNs like Windscribe and Hotspot Shield encrypt browsing. These services are convenient but often have data caps or limited server options. Chrome users choosing a free VPN should be cautious, prioritize privacy, and consider trade-offs.
| Feature | CyberGhost | TunnelBear | ExpressVPN | ProtonVPN | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Servers | 7,000+ | 2,600+ | 3,000+ | 1,400+ | 3,200+ |
| Countries | 91 | 40+ | 94 | 55 | 65+ |
| Simultaneous Connections | 7 | 5 | 5 | 10 | Unlimited |
| No-Logs Policy | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Encryption | 256-bit AES | 256-bit AES | 256-bit AES | 256-bit AES | 256-bit AES |
| Kill Switch | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Split Tunneling | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Streaming Support | Yes | Limited | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| P2P Support | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
CyberGhost
Features:
- User-friendly interface
- Robust server network
- Strong privacy features
- Dedicated streaming servers
The extension can be activated from the extension bar after it has been installed from the Chrome store. Click on the server location that is currently operational to select it as your server location. As a result of its foundation in the Ethereum blockchain, the Chrome extension offered by CyberGhost is among the most private options currently available. Currently, this is one of the best Free VPNs for Chrome.
Pros
- User-friendly interface.
- Large server network.
- Robust privacy features.
Cons
- Some server congestion during peak times.
- Limited configurability for advanced users.
TunnelBear
Features:
- Simple and whimsical design
- GhostBear feature for bypassing censorship
- No-logs policy
- Limited free plan available
TunnelBear is a genuine virtual private network (VPN) that is available as an extension for Chrome. TunnelBear offers a free account that, in contrast to the majority of premium VPN services, has a data limit rather than a time limit applied to it. TunnelBear is a good option for you if you want the power and control of a real VPN, but you only find yourself using it occasionally. Overall, this is one of the best Free VPNs for Chrome.
Pros
- Simple and intuitive design.
- Free plan with limited data.
- Strong emphasis on user privacy.
Cons
- Limited server locations.
- Not ideal for heavy data users.
ExpressVPN
Features:
- Fast and reliable connections
- Wide server coverage across the globe
- Top-tier security protocols
- MediaStreamer for seamless streaming
This is the fastest full-featured VPN. It has strong encryption, a stealth mode that hides your VPN use, and unblocks everything online. A Chrome extension requires a subscription. The desktop and mobile apps are simple. It costs $12.99 per month or $9.99 per month for six months. ExpressVPN is my top VPN recommendation for heavy use. This is the best Free VPNs for Chrome that you can consider.
Pros
- Fast and reliable connection speeds.
- Broad server coverage.
- Strong security features, including a no-logs policy.
Cons
- Relatively higher pricing.
- Limited simultaneous connections.
ProtonVPN
Features:
- Swiss-based privacy jurisdiction
- Secure Core architecture for enhanced protection
- No data logging policy
- User-friendly and intuitive interface
You are granted an unlimited amount of data when you download ProtonVPN. Nevertheless, in order to use their VPN proxy extension for Chrome, you will need to subscribe to a premium plan that begins at INR 498.76 ($5.99) per month and is billed annually. If you want to test out their Chrome VPN features before making a purchase, they provide a 30-day money-back guarantee. Overall, it is one of the best Free VPNs for Chrome that you can consider.
Pros
- Emphasis on privacy and security.
- Secure Core technology for added protection.
- No data logging.
Cons
- Slower speeds on some servers.
- Limited server locations compared to some competitors.
Surfshark
Features:
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- CleanWeb feature for ad and malware blocking
- MultiHop for increased anonymity
- Camouflage Mode to bypass network restrictions
Surfshark VPN proxy extension for Chrome is only available to paid users, but you can try it out for free for seven days. It starts at INR 332.17 a month, which is paid yearly. At the moment, they have 3,200 servers in 100 different countries. Remember that a VPN proxy extension for Google Chrome will only protect your web browsing. Still, it is one of the best Free VPNs for Chrome that you can consider.
Pros
- Unlimited simultaneous connections.
- Affordable pricing.
- No-logs policy.
Cons
- Smaller server network compared to some competitors.
- Variable connection speeds.
How to Choose the Best Free VPN for Chrome
To find the best free VPN for Chrome, you need to think about a number of things to make sure of both security and performance. Here are some suggestions that will help you make a smart choice:
Features for safety and privacy: Find a VPN that puts security first. To keep your privacy online safe, you should look for things like encryption protocols, a policy that doesn’t keep logs, and a kill switch. Make sure the VPN service has a clear policy on privacy.
Where the servers are: Check to see how many servers the VPN has and where they are located. Having more servers in more places can improve performance and let you access content that isn’t available in your area.
Limits on bandwidth and speed: There are some free VPNs that limit your bandwidth or slow down your internet. Choose a VPN that gives you enough bandwidth and speed to browse the web and stream videos.
Easy to Use: Choose a VPN with an easy-to-use interface. It is easier to connect and set up the VPN settings when the design is simple and easy to understand. Chrome extensions should be simple to set up and use.
Experience Without Ads: Some free VPNs make money by showing ads. Even though this happens a lot, it’s important to pick a VPN that doesn’t bombard you with too many ads, as this can make browsing slower.
FAQs
Does Chrome browser have free VPN?
Google Chrome doesn’t have a VPN extension, but third-party VPN proxy extensions are available. NordVPN’s Chrome extension has 60 VPN locations, including UK, US, and others.
Is ProtonVPN free?
Proton VPN is free because privacy and security are human rights. Unlike other free VPNs, no commitment. No browsing history is sold.
