The Best No-Log VPNs 2024

No logs? No problem. Explore why Mullvad, Proton VPN, and Surfshark are the best no-logs VPNs that have your privacy covered.
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Best for Privacy Purists

4.3
Editorial Rating
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On Mullvad's website

Mullvad
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Best All-in-One VPN

4.9
Editorial Rating
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On Proton VPN's website

Proton VPN
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Best for Affordable Security

4.9
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On Surfshark's website

Surfshark
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In search of the best no-log VPN for ultimate privacy online? We’ve scrutinized an array of no-logs VPNs for you and found SurfsharkMullvad, and Proton VPN all have solid features that maintain your privacy and security on the web.

No-logs VPNs such as these provide exceptional security and privacy that ensures no one, not even your internet service provider (ISP) or advertisers, can see your online activity or browsing history. Stay tuned to find out why we’ve chosen these three as the best no-logs VPNs. 

In this article
The best VPNs that don’t keep logs
Surfshark: Best for security without a hefty price tag
Mullvad: Best for online privacy purists
Proton VPN: Best all-in-one free and premium VPN
Honorable mentions
Why should you use a no-logs VPN?
How we tested the best no-logs VPNs
Best no-logs VPNs FAQs
Bottom line: The best anonymous VPNs

The best VPNs that don’t keep logs

We tested CyberGhost, Private Internet Access, Surfshark, Mullvad, ExpressVPN, NordVPN, PureVPN, and Proton VPN. And guess what our top three picks were? (Drum roll, please.)

Voila! Mullvad, Proton VPN, and Surfshark were our winners. These anonymous VPNs have strict no-logs policies to protect your privacy, and their advanced security features are a sweet bonus.

  • Surfshark: Best for affordable security
  • Mullvad: Best for online privacy purists
  • Proton VPN: Best all-in-one free and premium VPN

Top 3 anonymous VPN services compared

VPN
Starting price Starts at $2.29/mo Starts at €5.00/mo (about $5.45/mo) Starts at $4.49/mo
Headquarters The Netherlands Sweden Switzerland
Latest security audit 2023, Deloitte 2022, Assured AB 2022, Securitum
Learn more Get Surfshark

Read Surfshark Review

Read Mullvad Review Read Proton VPN Review

Surfshark: Best for security without a hefty price tag

Unlimited Device Protection and Large Server Network
4.9
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On Surfshark's website
VPN
Surfshark
79% off + 2 months free
  • All-in-one VPN app with 24/7 protection thanks to 3,200+ RAM-only servers in over 100 countries
  • Real-time malware defense, webcam protection, alternative ID creation, ad blocking, and more
  • One subscription covers unlimited devices for your entire household with access to 24/7 support
  • Headquarters in Nine Eyes Alliance

What we liked

We took a deep dive into Surfshark, and we couldn't help but be impressed by the value it offers in terms of its security features and support for unlimited simultaneous connections. This makes it excellent for budget-conscious people and large families who can’t afford to spend a fortune.

Surfshark stands firm in its commitment to a strict no-logs policy, which ensures your digital footprint remains safely hidden. In fact, Surfshark's adherence to this policy was independently verified by Deloitte, a renowned auditing firm, adding another level of assurance.[1]

When it comes to security-rich features, Surfshark doesn't disappoint. It comes packed with powerful features such as AES-256-GCM encryption, WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPSec protocols, a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and multi-hop for double-encrypting your connection (also called a double VPN). It also uses only RAM servers, which means each VPN server runs on the most recent software version, doesn’t store any data, and is consistently wiped clean.

Surfshark VPN offers multihop, or double VPN, servers for an extra layer of encryption.

Surfshark's extensive network of global servers helps you bypass geo-restrictions and seamlessly browse the web or stream content around the world. Plus, it accepts cryptocurrency payments via CoinGate for those who value privacy even when paying for services, and provides 24/7 customer support via live chat and email. With an ocean of great features, Surfshark has sailed its way to earning another privacy brownie point from us.

What we didn’t like

Despite its impressive balance of security and affordability, Surfshark isn't without a few minor drawbacks. It’s based in the Netherlands, which means it is part of the 9 Eyes alliance. But although it is part of this alliance, there have been no reports that its users’ data has been collected, stored, or shared with other governments that are affiliated with the alliance.

Moreover, while Surfshark offers a strong lineup of features, it may not be the ultimate choice for every use case. For example, hardcore privacy purists might lean toward a provider like Mullvad, which goes the extra mile in terms of account creation and privacy-oriented payment options.

Nonetheless, for the average person seeking a rich blend of privacy, security, and affordability, Surfshark remains a smooth and sound option.

Surfshark recently updated its privacy policy to note that it processes your email address when you use its dedicated IP service. This means certain online activities are traceable back to your account info — but you can avoid this by choosing the anonymous dedicated IP option after you complete the installation process.

Surfshark specs

Price range $2.29–$21.99/mo
Free version No
Headquarters The Netherlands
No-logs policy No logs
Latest security audit 2023 by Deloitte
Number of servers 3,200+ in 100 countries
Learn more Get Surfshark
Read Surfshark Review

Mullvad: Best for online privacy purists

4.3
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On Mullvad's website
Mullvad
  • Anonymity features, such as cash payments and no email required
  • Never-changing price of about $5 per month
  • Struggles with non-Netflix streaming platforms

What we liked

We verified that Mullvad is the best VPN for privacy purists thanks to its unwavering commitment to a strict no-logs policy and dedication to preserving user anonymity. Mullvad does this by enabling you to generate an account number without requiring your email address or username details when you sign up for its VPN. Pretty cool, right?

It also accepts privacy payment methods, such as sending cash through the mail (accompanied by a note with your private token), and accepting cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, and Monero.

One of Mullvad's standout features is its transparent pricing model, which offers a flat rate of €5 per month (about $5.38 per month at the time of writing), regardless of what payment method you choose. And you don’t have to commit to a monthly subscription, so you can pay as you go.

You can find Mullvad's kill switch and Lockdown Mode features in the VPN settings section of its Windows app.

Also, Mullvad has strong security features, such as AES-256-GCM encryption, WireGuard and OpenVPN support, a kill switch, Shadowsocks proxy, DNS content blockers, and more.

Mullvad has some skin in the VPN game with its long history in the industry since 2009 and remains committed to privacy.

Mullvad has been around for more than a decade, has never handed over user information to authorities, and continues to perform regular security audits. This is a sigh of relief for many users. For instance, its latest security audit was performed by Assured AB in 2022, and shows the company’s commitment to user security.[2]

Finally, its no-logs policy means that Mullvad doesn't store any information about you or your online activities, nor does it share them, which allows you to browse the internet without leaving a digital footprint.

What we didn’t like

Even though Mullvad is highly rated for its privacy standards, there are a few drawbacks to its features. One of its biggest drawbacks is its smaller server count with a limited number of countries compared with other VPN services, which can impact its connection speeds in certain areas. Both Surfshark and Proton VPN have server counts in the thousands, while Mullvad offers just over 600. 

Additionally, its pricing is higher than that of Surfshark and Proton VPN (slightly). Features can be limited depending on which operating system you use. It lacks split tunneling for macOS or iOS and mobile users on Android and iOS don’t have multihop support or access to a Shadowsocks proxy.

Plus, Mullvad supports up to five devices simultaneously, which may not be ideal for large households or those with several devices.

Furthermore, Mullvad is based in Sweden, which is a part of the 5, 9, and 14 Eyes alliances, and can be a concern for some even though the VPN service has never handed users’ information to authorities.

Lastly, Mullvad isn’t exactly your go-to knight in shining armor when it comes to 24/7 customer support. Email seems to be the only way to contact the company. Checking the help center is the only way to get answers to your questions.

Mullvad specs

Price range €5.00/mo (about $5.45/mo)
Free version No
Headquarters Sweden
No-logs policy No logs
Latest security audit 2022 by Assured AB
Number of servers 600+ servers in 40 countries
Learn more Read Mullvad Review

Proton VPN: Best all-in-one free and premium VPN

4.9
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On Proton VPN's website
Proton VPN
  • Easy to use
  • A strict no-logs policy that’s been tested in court
  • More expensive than NordVPN, Surfshark, and CyberGhost

What we liked

We selected Proton VPN as the best no-logs VPN if you're seeking a free VPN. With Proton, you can test its VPN for as long as you like with this plan before committing to the premium plan. 

Proton VPN is headquartered in Switzerland, a country notable for having the strongest privacy laws around the globe, and isn’t a part of the Eyes alliances. Also, in 2023, a third-party cybersecurity company, Securitum, conducted an independent audit of its no-logs policy, which it passed with flying colors.[3] But that’s just the icing on the cake.

There are more layers to Proton VPN’s benefits, such as its robust security features. With the Plus plan, you get 10 Gbps high-speed servers in 91 countries, split tunneling, ad blocker and malware protection, and double VPN serversr.. 

All plans offer AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption, perfect forward secrecy, WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols, Tor over VPN support, and Secure Core VPN servers that can prevent man-in-the-middle (MitM) attacks by routing your traffic through multiple servers to ensure the highest level of security.

Proton's Permanent Kill Switch feature doesn't allow your device to connect to the internet at all if you're not connected to the VPN.

Proton VPN also shows its dedication to full transparency by openly sharing details about legal orders it’s received and allowing third-party independent audits of its no-logs policy. It also participates in a bug bounty program.

Another feature we appreciated about Proton VPN is that it lets you watch Netflix and supports other streaming services such as Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+, which Mullvad lacked. This gives you more access to geo-restricted content.

Finally, the Proton VPN app is provided for a medley of platforms such as Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, and browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox, which makes it a versatile option if you own multiple devices.

What we didn’t like

Despite its many strengths, there are a few areas where Proton VPN falls short. One concern is that the free version comes with limitations, such as slower speeds, access to servers in only five countries (the U.S., the Netherlands, Romania, Poland, and Japan), and no specialty servers for streaming. These restrictions might make the free version less appealing if you require more versatility and faster speeds.

Additionally, some users reported slow speeds as well as inconsistent connection speeds on long-distance servers, which can be frustrating, especially for those who rely on VPNs for bandwidth-intensive activities like streaming and gaming. (Even so, Proton VPN is one of our top picks for gaming VPNs.)

Although Proton VPN offers a robust set of features for both free and premium users, these drawbacks are worth considering when choosing the best no-logs VPN for your needs.

Proton VPN specs

Price range $4.99–$9.99/mo
Free version Yes
Headquarters Switzerland
No-logs policy No logs
Latest security audit 2023 by Securitum
Number of servers 4,400+ servers in 91 countries (60+ in 5 countries for free version)
Learn more Read Proton VPN Review

Honorable mentions

Although Surfshark, Mullvad, and Proton VPN were chosen as our top three picks, we had a few close runners-up as well. Here are some alternatives to consider if you're not sold on our top three.

  • NordVPN: NordVPN was a close runner-up due to its robust security features, such as military-grade encryption, a kill switch, split tunneling, and more. NordVPN is also based in Panama, which is a privacy-friendly country, and it has a no-logs policy that's been audited. Nord may only allow six simultaneous connections, but it's still a top-notch VPN provider.

    Get NordVPN | Read Our NordVPN Review

  • ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands, which is another country outside of the Eyes alliances. It's a privacy service, but it's worth it due to its fast speeds and security features. It’s also worth noting that ExpressVPN offers the largest variety of VPN apps, including apps for Linux, smart TVs, gaming consoles, and even your router. 

    Get ExpressVPN | Read Our ExpressVPN Review

  • Private Internet Access: Private Internet Access was a close runner-up with budget-friendly security and privacy offerings. It also has a good reputation for adhering to its strict no-logs policy and was named one of our top VPNs. However , PIA is headquartered in the U.S. and part of the 5 Eyes Alliance, which raises some concerns regarding data privacy. Although it has a long history of not handing over users’ information to authorities, the company may be required to share user data with authorities if prompted to do so. 

    Get Private Internet Access | Read Our Private Internet Access Review

Why should you use a no-logs VPN?

Navigating the internet anonymously can be tricky for people who still wish to roam the cyber jungle freely. That’s why it’s crucial to use a private VPN that encrypts your data. Only use VPNs that don’t keep logs as well and back up their zero-logs policy with audits and transparency reports. This is especially true for privacy evangelists and those with the following occupations:
Journalists

  • Activists
  • Whistleblowers
  • Government employees
  • Celebrities and influencers
  • Military personnel
  • Healthcare workers
  • Finance and banking professionals
  • IT and cybersecurity specialists
  • Remote workers

VPNs are legal in most countries and are a great option for anyone who wants ultimate privacy on the internet. There are a variety of noteworthy reasons why using the best no-log VPN, which places privacy and security on a high pedestal, is essential for privacy-conscious individuals and those in sensitive lines of work.

  • Conceals your IP address to maintain anonymity
  • Keeps your browsing activity hidden from ISPs
  • Stops malicious hackers from intercepting or snooping on your data
  • Secures your online activity on public Wi-Fi networks (e.g., coffee shop, airport)
  • Unblocks geo-restricted content and bypasses censorship
  • Shields you from DDoS attacks, swatting, and man-in-the-middle (MitM) attacks
  • Protects against targeted ads and tracking
  • Evades government surveillance and censorship, such as the Great Firewall of China

How we tested the best no-logs VPNs

We spent hours evaluating several VPNs to come up with our conclusion on the best VPNs with a no-logs policy that keep your online privacy as safe as a hidden vault and security as strong as a wall of bricks. We put our contenders to the test and determined the best no-logs VPNs by checking if they met the following criteria:

  • Adheres to a strict no-logs policy
  • Conducts independent audits
  • Privacy-friendly jurisdiction
  • No history of breaking privacy
  • Strong encryption standards
  • Speed and reliability
  • Advanced security features (e.g., kill switch)
  • Multiple devices supported
  • Reasonable pricing

In summary, after testing several VPNs and evaluating their no-log policies and audits, we have determined our top picks are Surfshark Mullvad, and ProtonVPN. Each of these VPN clients offers robust privacy features, great security, and is reasonably priced.

To learn more about alternative VPN options, read more about the best VPN services.

Best no-logs VPNs FAQs


+

Does NordVPN keep logs?

No, NordVPN enforces a strict no-logs policy and has no history of monitoring, collecting, storing, or sharing user activity data so far. Also, NordVPN routinely allows third-party independent auditors to verify its no-logs policy.


+

Does ExpressVPN keep logs?

As with NordVPN, ExpressVPN also boasts a no-log policy and doesn't maintain user activity logs. Independent audits from third-party cybersecurity companies further support ExpressVPN's dedication to privacy.


+

Which free VPN has a no-logs policy?

Proton VPN is one of the best free VPNs that offers a no-logs policy. Although its free VPN is limited compared to premium services, it still provides a decent option for those seeking a no-log VPN free of charge.

Keep in mind, though, that although it may be tempting to opt for a no-log VPN free of charge, generally free VPNs often come with limitations such as slower speeds, for example, as well as potential privacy risks.


+

Can Google track me if I use a VPN?

A VPN can enhance your online privacy, but it's not entirely foolproof against tracking by companies such as Google. To minimize tracking, combine a trustworthy VPN with privacy-focused browsing habits and tracker-blocking tools.

You may also want to consider using privacy-centric search engines such as DuckDuckGo, Startpage, and others. It’s important to do research first and consider any potential risks.

Bottom line: The best anonymous VPNs

We’ve evaluated several VPNs and determined that the best anonymous VPNs that adhere to a strict no-logs policy for utmost privacy are Surfshark, Mullvad, and Proton VPN. They offer top-notch features for security and privacy, are located in privacy-friendly countries, and have had audits of their no-logs policy to verify their claims.

Although some contenders like PIA, ExpressVPN, and NordVPN were close runner-ups, they didn’t make our top three list due to slightly higher prices, limited device support, past privacy issues, or slower speeds.

3 best VPNs for privacy

Starting price Best for Learn more

Starts at $2.29/mo Best for affordable security Get Surfshark
Read Surfshark Review
€5.00/mo (about $5.45/mo) Best for online privacy purists Read Mullvad Review

Starts at Free Best all-in-one free and premium VPN Read Proton VPN Review


Unlimited Device Protection and Large Server Network
4.9
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On Surfshark's website
VPN
Surfshark
79% off + 2 months free
  • All-in-one VPN app with 24/7 protection thanks to 3,200+ RAM-only servers in over 100 countries
  • Real-time malware defense, webcam protection, alternative ID creation, ad blocking, and more
  • One subscription covers unlimited devices for your entire household with access to 24/7 support
  • Headquarters in Nine Eyes Alliance
Author Details
Mars is a California-based cybersecurity professional and writer currently pursuing a B.S. in Cybersecurity. With interests ranging from OSINT to ethical hacking and threat intelligence, Mars leverages his two years of writing experience to produce informative content on topics such as Internet guides and VPNs.

Citations

[1] Surfshark's No-Logs Statement Gets Verified by Deloitte

[2] Assured Security Consultants Report Mullvad VPN Relay Audit

[3] Securitum Security Report: ProtonVPN's No-Logs Policy