I should never use free VPNs without careful consideration. There have been instances where it was revealed that they may collect my data and sell it to the third parties. In contrast, I’ve dedicated countless hours to identifying the best free VPN for Mac OS , ensuring your digital experience is safe and unrestricted.
Through meticulous testing of over 45 VPN services, I’ve discovered that while some free VPNs compromise your privacy by selling data, others stand out by offering unlimited data, superior security features, and fast connection speeds without costing a dime.
I recommend ExpressVPN as a stellar option that defies the typical limitations of free VPNs, providing Mac users with unlimited data and robust protection. This best free VPN Service doesn’t just promise secure browsing; it delivers high-speed connections thanks to the latest WireGuard protocol and essential features like a reliable kill switch and DNS leak protection.
My analysis ensures you get the best, whether using a MacBook Pro, Air, Mac Mini, or an iOS device. Trust in my selections for a seamless and fortified online journey.
We have spent thousands of hours and days testing 160+ VPN services using our carefully curated testing process to recommend you the best VPN. Here are a few statistics:
-
Total Hours of Testing1000+
-
Weekly Speed Tests110
-
VPN Services Reviewed160+
-
Streaming Platforms Tested Daily50+
-
IP & DNS Leak Tests Performed100+
-
How Much we have spent on testing$30,000+
Total Hours of Testing1000+
Quick Overview: Best Free VPN for Mac [Updated 2024]
As you look for the best free VPN for Macbook to secure your online activities. Here’s a synthesized analysis of the best free VPN services for Mac that stand out in 2024:
ExpressVPN – Best Free Trial VPN for Mac
It offers a 30-day money-back guarantee along with a 7-day free trial for Mac users to enjoy robust security.
Windscribe – Best Free Mac VPN for Streaming
It offers a substantial 10 GB of data monthly and includes a firewall for added security.
ProtonVPN – Best Free VPN for Mac with Unlimited Data:
Distinguished for its unlimited data offering and strong privacy features, albeit with a limited server selection.
Hotspot Shield – Easy-to-Use Free VPN for Macbook Pro:
Provides unlimited data and uses a proprietary Hydra protocol for fast speeds, suitable for casual internet users.
Atlas VPN – Best Free Mac VPN for Beginners:
Comes with 5 GB of data per month and supports unlimited device connections.
Hide me – Reliable VPN for Mac free
With monthly 10 GB of free data and strong privacy and security features, it’s a great option for privacy-conscious users.
Is it Worth Using a Free VPN on Mac?
Having a free VPN app for Mac is worthwhile if you prioritize basic security and don’t require extensive features. Surveys conducted by cybersecurity firms reveal that over 70% of VPN users on Mac cite enhancing online privacy and security as their primary reason for using a VPN.
However, free VPNs may not be the best option due to their restrictions, as they may display intrusive ads or sell your data to third parties. These privacy concerns highlight the importance of being cautious and conducting thorough research before choosing a free VPN download for Mac.
To ensure you’re not putting your Mac’s security at risk, invest in a reputable VPN. Premium VPNs offer enhanced security and server speeds without the privacy risks associated with many free options. They also come with free trials or money-back guarantees, allowing you to evaluate before committing.
Detailed Analysis of the Best Free VPN for Mac in 2024
After rigorous testing and reviewing 45+ VPNs, I’ve curated the best free VPN for Macbooks that cater to your needs without sacrificing your online safety.
These VPNs strike the perfect balance between strong encryption, user-friendly interfaces, and the agility to bypass geoblocks, ensuring your internet experience is secure, private, and unrestricted.
1. ExpressVPN: Best Free Trial VPN for Mac Users
- Ultra-fast servers in 105 Countries
- Excellent unblocking capability for Netflix, Hulu & more
- Best-in-class encryption trusted security, and advanced protection features that block ads, trackers, and harmful sites.
- Connect up to 8 devices simultaneously
- 24/7 customer support through live chat
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Server count
ExpressVPN stands out as the best free VPN for Mac, justifying its tagline with an impressive network of servers across more than 105 countries, ensuring Mac users enjoy seamless access and fast connections worldwide. Its dedication to providing a robust server infrastructure is particularly beneficial for US users, with a detailed ExpressVPN server list that highlights the vast options available.
MediaStreamer
Mac users will find ExpressVPN MediaStreamer feature especially appealing. This smart DNS service effortlessly unblocks a wide array of streaming platforms, elevating your viewing experience without compromising on speed or quality.
Speed Tests
My ExpressVPN speed test on a 100 Mbps connection revealed impressive speeds: 89.42 Mbps download and 84.64 Mbps upload, showcasing ExpressVPN’s capacity to handle demanding online activities without lag.
These speed rates are fast enough to stream videos in 4k quality.
Security and Compatibility
ExpressVPN’s security measures are top-notch, featuring 256-bit encryption, DNS/IP leak protection, and the ExpressVPN kill switch, which safeguards your data even if the connection drops unexpectedly. It supports a wide range of devices, including seamless integration with iPhone, detailed at ExpressVPN on iPhone.
Pricing & Free Trial
The VPN’s commitment to user satisfaction is evident through ExpressVPN free trial. Mac users can explore the full suite of ExpressVPN’s features risk-free, ensuring it meets their needs without any upfront investment. Once you’re satisfied you may opt for ExpressVPN’s subscription starting from $6.67/mo - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free.
- Extensive server network around 105 globally.
- High-speed performance ideal for streaming and downloading.
- Strong security features including encryption and a kill switch.
- While ExpressVPN offers a trial, its premium features and optimal performance
2. Windscribe — Best Free Mac VPN for Streaming
- Strong Encryption Protocols
- Free Version Offered
- 3 Days Money Back Guarantee
- 50 Server Locations (11 in Free Version)
- Accepts Bitcoin Payments
- Offers OpenVPN encryption
Windscribe is the best free Mac VPN for streaming. It stands out for its combination of a robust server network, impressive streaming speeds, and strong security features, all essential for a seamless online experience. Windscribe application is also great as its rating on the App Store is 4.1/5, proving it to be the best among the rest.
Servers:
It offers 11 servers on its free version. Using its 10GB bandwidth and server locations. Free Servers include the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, France, Germany, Netherlands, Switzerland, Hong Kong, Turkey, Norway, and Romania.
Speed
This best free VPN Mac Yosemite facilitates fast-speed streaming in HD quality with WireGuard support to prevent buffering. I present the results of the Windscribe speed test on its free servers.
Windscribe-free US server speed was quite good on a 100 Mbps connection. It has the best VPN Browser for Mac.
Security and Privacy
The Windscribe Mac app has a Stealth protocol to make your VPN traffic seem like regular internet traffic. To protect your online identity, Windscribe applies Mac spoofing that assigns a new address every time you connect to the same network.
Moreover, it does not store connection or session logs, IP timestamps, or private data. So, you can safely enjoy Torrenting with Windscribe on your Mac.
Mac Compatibility
Windscribe integrates with macOS and multiple other operating systems like Windows, Mac, and Android. Its Mac app doesn’t work like any other menu bar app. It always jumps out to the desktop. In the latest macOS Big Sur release, you can detach the app from the menu bar, but it turns it into a floating window. Furthermore, are browser add-ons available for Chrome, Firefox, and Opera.
Windscribe Best Free VPN for Mac
Customer Support
If you experience any issues, there is no human live chat support. It offers a chatbot, but I have not found it helpful. Instead, you have to send your queries through email.
Plans and Free trial
Windscribe free trial is a great starting point for Mac users, offering 10GB of monthly data if you confirm your email. For unlimited access and more server locations, their Pro plan is available.
Its premium version comes with a 3-day money-back guarantee to cancel your Windscribe subscription and get a refund.
Learn more about this service in this Windscribe VPN review . All the details about the best free VPN Mac download are mentioned in it.
- Data cap of 10 GB/mo
- Works fine in China
- Offers unlimited multi-logins
- Doesn’t offer live chat support
- The macOS app isn’t very user-friendly
3. ProtonVPN — Best Free VPN for Mac with Unlimited Data
- Freemium Version to the Users
- Users can Cancel at any Time
- In-built Kill Switch
- Multi-Hoping Capability
- OpenVPN and IKEv2(For Mac)
- Tor Servers
ProtonVPN is the best free VPN for Mac with unlimited data, especially for those who value privacy and security. It distinguishes itself with a strong commitment to user privacy and reliable streaming capabilities with unlimited bandwidth. That’s why it is also rated 4.3/5 in the App Store, making it a better option with unlimited bandwidth.
Servers
Moreover, it offers servers in only 5 countries, including the US, Japan, Romania, Poland and The Netherlands. You can easily unblock Netflix with ProtonVPN via these free servers on your Mac devices without interruptions.
Speed
In my ProtonVPN speed test , the free servers displayed slow speeds. An adequate speed was observed for secure website browsing, but it was not enough for streaming Ultra-HD YouTube videos.
Proton VPN for Mac delivers decent speed on a 100 Mbps connection and is considered the best free VPN for Mac M1.
Security Features
Proton VPN for Mac provides enhanced security with a strict no-logs policy and 256-bit AES encryption, using SHA–348 hash and RSA–4028 handshake to authenticate and verify data. It protects users against all network-based attacks with OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard.
It offers an encrypted email service called ProtonMail. Furthermore, the ProtonVPN Mac app also has a kill switch enabled by default. With this free VPN Mac, you’re also safe from DNS/IP leaks.
Mac Compatibility
ProtonVPN supports macOS Sierra 10.12, High Sierra 10.13, Mojave 10.14, Catalina 10.15, and Big Sur 11. With this VPN, only one device can be connected simultaneously, as it doesn’t allow simultaneous connections on the free version.
ProtonVPN is unlimited Free VPN for Mac
Customer Support
If your ProtonVPN is not working , you can contact its support team via ProtonVPN’s ticketing system. There is no live chat support, but they usually respond to emails within 24 hours.
You can learn more about this free Macbook VPN service in my ProtonVPN review .
- Advanced encryption
- WireGuard tunnel
- No data limits
- Unlimited connection speeds
- Kill switch functionality
- Limited to just 5 server locations for free users
- Minimal features accessible in the free version
4. Hotspot Shield — Easy-to-Use Free VPN for Macbook Pro
- Freemium Service
- 45 Days Money Back Guarantee
- Kill Switch & Split Tunneling
- Cross-Platform Compatibility
- Works with Netflix
- Supports Torrenting
Hotspot Shield is an easy-to-use free VPN for Macbook Pro for secure web browsing. Its robust Catapult Hydra Protocol ensures optimal speeds, making it ideal for safeguarding online activities. That is why it’s the best Mac Application in the App Store, with a rating of 4.5/5.
Servers
Its free version offers only 4 servers – Los Angeles, New York, Singapore, and the United Kingdom. It is incompatible with major streaming platforms like HBO GO, Amazon Prime Video, or Netflix. It mainly allows users to circumvent social media censorship and access YouTube or Kodi add-ons.
Speed
While browsing, I received decent speeds, but there were fluctuations during peak hours since all free users share a few servers in the US. However, when tested, I got the following speeds:
These speeds were reliable for browsing on Mac .
Security Features
This VPN-free Mac app offers military-grade encryption (256-bit AES) and an internet kill switch for added security of your sensitive data. It also offers built-in malware and DNS leak protection that protects you from online threats.
Mac Compatibility
This best Mac free VPN is compatible with Sierra 10.12, High Sierra 10.13, Mojave 10.14, Catalina 10.15, and Big Sur 11. It allows users to connect one device within the free plan. So you can download the best VPN Mac free on laptop only at a time.
Hotspot Shield is the fastest free VPN for Mac OS
Customer Support
Hotspot Shield offers live chat and email support with swift and efficient live chat responses. However, live chat is exclusive to premium users, while free users can only access email support.
Pricing/ Free Plans
However, the free version is ad-supported, so be prepared to experience a lot of pop-ups and ads online. Hotspot Shield offers a premium plan for those who require an ad-free experience and additional features. The pricing for the premium version starts at $7.99 per month, offering access to servers in over 80 countries.
You can learn more about this service in my Hotspot Shield review .
- Mac app is pretty easy to use
- Free unlimited VPN for Mac
- It can be used without entering account details
- Allows torrenting on the free server
- Headquartered in the US
- Ads and Popups
5. Atlas VPN – Best Free Mac VPN for Beginners
- 3 servers in 2 countries (US and Netherlands).
- Offers unlimited bandwidth.
- Works with Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and BBC iPlayer.
- Top downloading speed of 32 Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection.
- 1 device connection.
Atlas VPN stands out as the best free Mac VPN for beginners, recommended for its user-friendly interface and no-nonsense approach to online security. It’s perfect for Mac users venturing into the world of VPNs for the first time.
Servers
The free version of Atlas VPN offers access to 3 servers – USA, Netherlands, and Singapore- well-optimized for speed and reliability. However, if you opt for a paid subscription, you can enjoy a larger server fleet of 1000+ servers across 42 countries, reducing the chances of overcrowded servers.
Speed
Atlas VPN sets itself apart by offering the WireGuard tunneling protocol in its free version. This ensures respectable speeds as a free VPN service. When tested for Atlas VPN speed, I got a download speed of 83.98 Mbps and an upload speed of 41.64 Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection.
Altas VPN gave respectable speed test results
Security Features
Security is a key aspect of Atlas VPN, with features like strong encryption and a no–logs policy ensuring that your online activities remain private. A kill switch feature that safeguards your IP address in case of an unexpected VPN connection drop. These features safeguard your data, especially when connected to unsecured public Wi-Fi networks.
Mac Compatibility
It is compatible with macOS 10.12 Sierra or later. However, it is important to note that there is no native version of Atlas VPN specifically designed for M1/M2 Macs. This could be a drawback for users who own these newer Mac models.
AtlasVPN offers an easy-to-use Mac app.
Customer Support
Atlas VPN provides detailed customer support, including 24/7 live chat (exclusive to premium users), ticket submission, FAQs, and a knowledge base, ensuring assistance is always within reach.
Plans/Free Trial
For those new to AtlasVPN, the service offers a generous unlimited data allowance on its free plan. If you find the MAC free VPN service you like and want to upgrade, AtlasVPN’s pricing is competitive, with plans starting at $11.99/month.
- WireGuard tunneling protocol
- Adheres to a strict no-log policy
- Supports unlimited simultaneous connections
- Free version has a monthly data limit of 5 GB
- No native app available for M1/M2 Macs
6. Hide.Me — Reliable VPN for Mac free
- Robust Encryption
- P2P Compatibility
- Free Package
- Safe Payment Methods
- 14-day money back guarantee
- Easy to Use
Hide.Me is the most reliable VPN for Safari free, ensuring secure browsing without compromising my privacy.. This free VPN service Mac is renowned for its strong commitment to user privacy and security, making it the most private VPN option for Mac users. So it’s rated 4.3/5 in the App Store.
Servers
It boasts a decent server network of 2400 servers in 89 countries. For free users, Hide.me offers 10 GB of free data every month and access to 8 servers in the US East, US West, Canada, Singapore, and the Netherlands.
Speed
During my Hide.me speed tests conducted on a 100 Mbps connection in various servers across different regions, I observed an average download speed of 49.24 Mbps and an upload speed of 7.66 Mbps.
Hide. me speed result on a 100 Mbps connection.
With such low pings, I also tried gaming with this VPN on my Mac, although the downloading and uploading speeds are not upto the mark, but to my surprise, my gaming experience was quite seamless and fast therefore, I can count Hide.me as the best free VPN for gaming .
Security Features
As for security, it offers features like AES 256-bit encryption, a no-logs policy, and a kill switch for online privacy. Hide.me’s built-in IP leak protection keeps your IP hidden even if there is a malfunction in the application. Its split tunneling feature lets you route some internet traffic over your VPN and the rest through your local internet service provider (ISP) connection.
Mac Compatibility
Hide.Me has a fully optimized app for macOS, which you can download via the Mac App Store. Most importantly, it is one of the few free VPN providers fully compatible with Apple Silicon and powers the latest Macbook Pros, Macbook Airs, and Mac Mini.
Hide.me is the secure free VPN for Macs.
Customer Support
Hide.me ensures round-the-clock support with its 24/7 live chat, allowing immediate answers to queries. Email support is also available for additional contact options. The VPN’s knowledge base features a wide array of well-structured FAQs and an extensive blog for easy reference.
Plans/Free Trial
The free version of Hide.Me is the best free VPN for mac OS for those who need a VPN for occasional use. Hide for users requiring more data, better speeds, and a wider range of server locations.Me offers a premium plan. The premium plan costs $2.69/month and provides a cost-effective solution for enhanced privacy and online freedom.
You can learn more about this VPN in my Hide.Me review .
- Available on the Mac store
- Doesn’t require registration
- Average speeds on all servers
- Its VPN app for Mac is user-friendly
- Servers are only present in 5 locations
- WireGuard protocol is unavailable for free users
Testing Methodology for the Best Free VPN for Mac
Finding the best free VPN for Macbooks requires a careful balance of security, privacy, and functionality. Here’s a guide on how to select and configure the ideal free VPN for Mac OS:
- VPNs that offer a substantial free option. I’ve differentiated between genuinely free VPNs and those with limited free tiers featuring restricted functionality or data caps. Freemium VPNs may entice with a free version but often push for a paid upgrade for complete access. Hence, I’ve categorized freemium and free VPNs separately.
- Compatibility with macOS. Make sure the VPN is compatible with your Mac model and macOS version. I’ve identified and compiled these macOS-friendly services for your convenience.
- Security and privacy. My tests on various VPNs prioritized those employing advanced AES-256 encryption or its equivalent, along with leading tunneling protocols such as OpenVPN or WireGuard. Additionally, I verified their commitment to stringent no-logs policies.
- Sufficient data allowance. The lesser the data protection offered, the more limited your safe browsing is. I focused on services that provide unlimited data or a minimum of 5 GB per month, ensuring extensive and secure internet usage.
- Speed. A seamless online experience requires unhindered network speed. My selection includes only VPNs that deliver high connection speeds without imposing any restrictions.
- Dependable paid plans. I evaluated the paid versions of VPNs, focusing on those offering straightforward 30-day money-back guarantees. Understanding the complete paid packages was crucial to gauge the value offered to users of the free versions.
- User Experience: Look for an intuitive interface and responsive customer support.
- Consider Upgrading: If necessary, consider a paid VPN with a money-back guarantee, like ExpressVPN, to test its features risk-free.
Choosing a free VPN for MacBook Pro or any Mac model requires careful consideration to ensure your online activities are secure and private. While free options may suffice for casual use, a premium service like ExpressVPN is ideal for those needing a more robust solution.
Top Free VPN for Mac: Brief Summary Test Ratings
I summarize each free VPN for Mac, rating them on key aspects such as data security, streaming capabilities, and ease of use. This section helps you quickly identify which VPN might suit your specific needs. The top free VPN for Mac summaries is here:
| VPNs/Features |  |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating for Free Mac | 9.0 | 7.4 | 6.8 | 6.5 | 5.1 | 4.4 |
| Mac App | 9.5 | 9.3 | 9.2 | 8.7 | 8.4 | 7.9 |
| Speed (Mbps) | 89 | 90 | 87 | 86 | 85 | 78 |
| Torrenting | 9.0 | 8.6 | 8.3 | 7.9 | 7.5 | 6.4 |
| Streaming | 9.5 | 9.2 | 9.0 | 8.7 | 8.3 | 8.1 |
| Additional Features | 9.0 | 8.6 | 8.5 | 8.7 | 8.9 | 8.6 |
Comparison of the Best Free VPN for Mac in 2024
Choosing the best Mac free VPN involves comparing features that align with your security, speed, and data privacy needs. Here’s an evaluation:
| Factors | |
|
|
|
|
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Based in Country | British Virgin Islands | Canada | Switzerland | USA | USA | Malaysia |
| macOS compatibility | macOS 10.10 (Yosemite) and later | Yosemite 10.10 & Mac OS X 10.12+ | Sierra (10.12)+ | Sierra (10.12)+ | macOS 10.12 Sierra or later | Catalina (10.15)+ |
| Free Browser Extension | Yes | Yes | No | Yes with limitations | Yes with limitations | Yes with limitations |
| App Store Rating | 4.6 | 4.5 | 4.6 | 4.5 | 4.7 | 4.5 |
| Data Usage Limit | Unlimited | 10 GB/mo | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 10 GB/mo |
| Server Locations | Servers in countries | 11 Servers in 10 countries | 5 – USA, Poland, Romania, Netherlands, and Japan | 1800+ servers in 80 countries | 3 – USA, Netherlands, and Singapore | 7 – Finland, France, Germany, Netherlands, Switzerland, UK, USA |
| Unblock Netflix | ✅ | ✅ | Sometimes | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Works with Safari | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ (on Plus servers) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Logging Policy | No logs policy | No logs policy | No logs policy | No logs policy | No logs policy | No logs policy |
| Simultaneous Connections | 8 | Unlimited | 10 on a paid plan | 10 on a paid plan | Unlimited | 10 on a paid plan |
| Money Back Guarantee | 30 days | 3 days | 30 days | 45 days | 30 days | 30 days |
| Price | $6.67/mo - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free | $1/month per location | $9.99/month | $7.99 per month | $11.99/month | $2.69/month |
| More Info | Visit Site | Visit Site | Visit Site | Visit Site | Visit Site | Visit Site |
Quick Guide: How to Get Started With Your Free VPN on Mac
Starting with a free VPN on your Mac is straightforward and can be done in a few simple steps. Here’s how you can begin with a VPN for Mac free download:
- Download the VPN App: Choose a free VPN download for Mac from a reputable provider’s official website or the Mac App Store. Like ExpressVPN’s free trial or ProtonVPN.
- Install the Software: Follow the on-screen instructions to install the VPN software on your Mac.
- Launch and Connect: Log in with your credentials and connect to a server that meets your requirements, whether it’s for faster local speeds or accessing geo-restricted content.
- Select a server location to change IP address on Mac that matches your browsing needs.
- Adjust Settings as Needed: Explore the VPN settings, enabling features like the kill switch and selecting the preferred protocol to enhance your VPN experience.
By following these steps and guidelines, you can download free VPN for Mac and enjoy a safer browsing experience on your MacBook or iMac. In case of any confusion in getting a free VPN Mac download, check this guide on how to set up VPN on Mac .
How to Download VPN on Mac Free (Brief Video Tutorial)
To execute the free VPN for Mac downloading steps, watch a brief video tutorial on using free VPN software for Mac. This visual guide makes it easy to follow along and get started with your Mac VPN freely.
Limitations of Using a Free VPN on Mac
Knowing its limitations is important when considering a free VPN for your Mac. Here are some key aspects to remember before choosing to download free VPN for Mac.
Limited Server Options
Limited server options are available for Mac users, potentially restricting your access to various online content. My study into VPNs reveals that the average free VPN service provides access to fewer than 10-20 countries, compared to 50-100 countries by paid services.
Limited Performance
Mac users may experience limited performance with free VPNs, which can impact the speed and efficiency of their online activities. Research indicates that free VPNs can reduce internet speed by 50-70%, significantly impacting online activities such as streaming, gaming, and downloading.
Insecure Protocols & Encryption
Studies have found that free VPN apps are 3.5 times more likely to contain malware than paid ones. Additionally, many free VPNs lack secure tunneling protocols, exposing users to higher risks of cyber attacks.
Slow speeds
With free VPNs attracting many users, servers often become overcrowded, leading to slower connections, increased latency, and buffering. This significantly affects browsing, streaming, and gaming.
Risks of Using a Free VPN on Mac
When considering a free VPN for your Mac, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks associated with such services. Although Macs are generally less prone to viruses and malware, your online privacy is equally at risk when browsing the internet, regardless of the operating system.
One significant concern is that a VPN for Mac free of cost may track your online activities and sell your data to third parties. This means the privacy you’re seeking with a VPN is compromised from the start. Additionally, the study found that up to 40% of free VPNs inject ads or malware into users’ devices, compromising performance and security.
Moreover, free VPNs may employ outdated security protocols, potentially exposing your data to cyber threats. They might also install trackers in your browser to collect data for targeted advertising or even engage in browser hijacking, redirecting you to unintended websites. These practices are not only intrusive but can also be dangerous.
For those who require more robust security and privacy features, a premium VPN service like ExpressVPN is recommended, even though it is not a free option.
Free vs. Paid VPNs for Mac
As a Mac user, you must consider whether to choose a free VPN or a paid VPN. Free VPNs offer basic online security and privacy. However, they come with significant limitations, such as data caps, slower speeds, and a limited number of servers, which can impede activities like streaming or downloading large files.
Free VPNs often lack strong encryption and advanced security features, leaving you vulnerable to cyber threats. Moreover, privacy concerns are real; some may log user data and sell it to third parties.
If you require only basic browsing and security, a top free VPN for Mac may suffice; however, a paid VPN is advisable for a more secure and unrestricted experience.
| Features | Free VPN | Paid VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | No financial investment is required. | Monthly or yearly subscription fees apply. |
| Data Limit | Data usage limits, restricting streaming and downloading. | Unlimited Data |
| Speed | Slower speeds due to server congestion and limited resources | Faster connections and higher bandwidth for seamless streaming. |
| Mac Compatibility | Offer limited support for different versions. | Support all versions with multiple simultaneous connections. |
| Server Access | Limited server options and locations can affect access to geo-restricted content. | Wide range of servers worldwide, improving access to global content. |
| Security & Privacy | Weak security protocols and log user data for advertising | Robust encryption and strict no-logs policies for enhanced privacy. |
| Customer Support | Limited to FAQs or email, with slower response times. | Provide 24/7 customer support with live chat options. |
In contrast, paid VPNs like ExpressVPN offer robust encryption, numerous server locations, no data limits, and additional features such as ad-blocking and split tunneling. These services provide reliable connections and are better suited for demanding tasks.
Other Free VPNs for Mac
I highlight major VPN brands that don’t offer free trials and discuss the reasons behind their decision. This insight helps you understand the VPN market better. Here are the top brands that didn’t make it to the list offering free trials.
- ZoogVPN: As a VPN free for Mac, it offers a complimentary plan with rapid speeds and servers in 8 countries but falls short in essential security aspects. It lacks advanced features, offers subpar streaming capabilities, and is limited to 10 GB of data monthly.
- Speedify: This free VPN offers 2GB of data, supports 5 devices simultaneously, and provides full server access on your Mac. However, it fails to support major streaming platforms and notably reduces speeds (contrary to its claims). Additionally, it maintains some user logs and does not include a kill switch feature.
- TunnelBear: It offers industry-standard security measures, fun extras, and the cutest Mac app. It does have a free plan, but it only covers 2 GB per month, which is insufficient to try the service and determine if it is good for you.
- OperaVPN: Integrated into the Opera browser, providing unlimited data.
Avoid Using These Free VPNs For Mac
When choosing a free VPN for your Mac, it’s equally important to know which ones to avoid and recognize the best ones to use. A few free Macbook VPNs use unsavory practices such as intrusive advertising, tracking, and even selling user data. Avoiding these free Mac VPNs is best for your safety, as they are considered hazardous.
| VPN Service | Reasons to Avoid |
|---|---|
| HolaVPN | Its free variant swaps your IP address with another user’s, potentially exposing you to risks if your IP is misused for illicit activities by others. Moreover, Hola retains user activity logs, lacks traffic encryption, and has a history of exposing users’ IP addresses. For a deeper understanding of this provider, consider reading the Hola VPN review . |
| SuperVPN | It records extensive user data, such as IP addresses, operating systems, and browser types. However, it also fails crucial security measures and has been implicated in data breaches, compromising user information like IP addresses, emails, and locations. Get detailed insights from a SuperVPN review . |
| BetternetVPN | Maintains user logs to generate personalized ads, potentially compromising privacy by tracking and analyzing your online activities to tailor advertising content. If you’d like to learn more about BetterNet, you can delve into the detailed BetterNet review . |
| VPNBook | This provider involves a manual setup process that may not be intuitive for all users. Additionally, it records your IP address and connection details, and despite assertions of weekly data deletion, this practice raises concerns about privacy retention. Learn more in my VPNBook review . |
More Best Free VPN Devices Guides By VPNRanks
| Devices | Description |
|---|---|
| Best Free VPN for Kodi | Unblock the world of entertainment on your Kodi media player using my recommended free VPNs |
| Best Free VPN for Linux | Discover free VPNs that work with Linux |
| Best Free VPN for Xbox | Discover free VPNs that work with Xbox for a seamless gaming experience. |
| Best Free VPN for iPhone | Safeguard your iPhone with my top-recommended free VPNs |
| Best Free VPN for Firefox | Fortify your Firefox privacy with user-friendly VPNs that are available for free. |
| best free VPN for Windows | Boost your browsing security with recommended Windows VPN extensions that won’t cost a dime. |
FAQs – Best Free VPN for Mac
Which is the best free VPN for Mac?
ExpressVPN stands out as the top choice for a free VPN on Mac, offering robust AES-256 encryption and fast speeds via the WireGuard tunnel. For an enhanced experience, consider ExpressVPN’s premium plan, accessible through a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Is there a 100% free VPN for Mac?
Yes, ProtonVPN offers a 100% free VPN service for Mac users, featuring no data caps for uninterrupted safe browsing. It provides unrestricted connection speeds, WireGuard protocol, a reliable kill switch, and DNS leak protection, ensuring a secure online experience.
Do Macs have a built-in VPN?
Macs natively support VPN connections but do not have a built-in VPN service. To utilize this feature effectively, you must connect to an external VPN server that accepts your incoming connection.
Does MacBook Pro have a built-in VPN?
The MacBook Pro does not come with a pre-installed VPN. Nonetheless, macOS supports various third-party VPN applications, enabling you to connect to a VPN server. NordVPN and Surfshark are among the most favored VPN apps for Mac.
Which free Mac VPN is trustworthy?
All the free Mac VPNs I recommended here are reliable, but ProtonVPN and Windscribe are the top choices. These VPNs offer robust security and adhere to strict privacy policies to protect your online identity.
Can I get a free VPN for Mac without registering?
Indeed, certain VPNs offer use without the necessity of registration or sign-up. Although premium VPNs with free trials might require an email and credit card, they ensure your data is safeguarded with high-level security akin to that of banks, ensuring complete safety. For enhanced privacy, you also have the option to register using a temporary email address.
What’s the best free VPN browser extension for Safari?
Although Safari does not support VPN browser extensions directly, you can still secure your browsing on Mac with VPN applications. ExpressVPN and Surfshark are leading choices for Safari users, offering strong security features.
Is it safe to use a free VPN on my Mac?
Yes, it can be, but only if you choose a VPN that offers strong security features like robust encryption and a strict no-logs policy. Be cautious, as some free VPNs may log and sell your data. For instance, while ProtonVPN provides unlimited data, it limits users to only five server locations. To access a full range of features, opting for a paid VPN service such as ExpressVPN is necessary.
Can I use a free VPN for streaming on my Mac?
Yes. ProtonVPN offers a completely free VPN service for Mac, with no limitations on data usage, ensuring uninterrupted and secure browsing at all times. For a better experience, a paid VPN like ExpressVPN might be more suitable.
Do free VPNs work on all Mac models?
Most free VPNs should work on recent Mac models but always check for compatibility with your specific macOS version. Selecting a free VPN for Mac involves assessing various factors, and for users who need more robust features, a paid service like ExpressVPN might be preferable.
Wrapping Up!
To wrap up, while the best free VPN for Mac can provide a basic level of security and access to restricted content, it’s important to be aware of the limitations and potential risks. Free services may come with data caps, slower speeds, and less robust security features.
If you’re looking for a free VPN download for Mac that offers features without restrictions, consider opting for ProtonVPN. However, the best free VPN for Mac is the way to go for those seeking an uncompromised and reliable VPN experience on Mac. Its advanced encryption, fast speeds, and extensive server networks ensure top-notch privacy and access to a wide range of content.
So, if you want a high-quality VPN, consider downloading ExpressVPN for its reliable service and customer-friendly policies, including a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Hey which free vpn works in China? I’m planning to use one for YouTube and English programmes on my macbook.
Hi Jackson, this is a tricky question. VPNs don’t tend to work well in China. They always end up getting blocked. Based on our testing, we had luck with ExpressVPN but it is a paid option. For a free option, you can go for either ProtonVPN or Windscribe VPN. Both of them worked the last time we tested them in China.