The Best VPNs for Privacy: Reddit Recommendations

The internet is a vast place, but it is not always as private as we would hope. With data breaches, nosy ISPs, and curious hackers, maintaining our online privacy can feel like an uphill battle. Thankfully, you can browse the web privately by using a Virtual Private Network (aka VPN). 

However, with so many VPN options out there, which one truly stands up to the task? To make your decision-making process easier, we have listed the best VPNs for privacy recommended by Reddit users and discussed why they are worth trying. Without further ado, let’s dive in!

Related Read: What is Internet Privacy and Why Does it Matter?

Reddit’s Best VPNs for Privacy – A Quick Overview

PureVPN	Pocket-friendly VPN for privacy
Mullvad	Obfuscated VPN with private sign-up
Private Internet Access	Private VPN with unlimited multi-logins
ExpressVPN	Super-fast VPN for privacy protection
NordVPN	Feature-rich privacy VPN

What Features Do Redditors Look for in a Private VPN?

Here is what Reddit users prioritize when choosing the best VPN for privacy: 

• Audited No-Log Policy: VPNs that have undergone third-party audits have proven they do not keep tabs on users. 

• Obfuscated Servers: For those living in stricter regions, obfuscated servers disguise VPN traffic and make it look like regular traffic.

• Internet Kill Switch: Imagine a safety net for your connection. If a VPN disconnects unexpectedly, a kill switch cuts your internet, keeping your privacy intact.

• IP Leak Protection: An absolute must! VPNs that offer WebRTC, IPv6, and DNS leak protection ensure your real IP address is not accidentally exposed.

• Privacy-Friendly Jurisdiction: Where a VPN company is based matters. Users prefer those headquartered in countries without data retention laws.

• Modern VPN Protocols: The tech behind the VPN needs to be up-to-date. Redditors often discuss the merits of VPN protocols like WireGuard for speed and security.

• Robust Encryption: A VPN’s strength lies in its encryption. AES-256, for example, is known for its top-tier encryption, making data interception extremely difficult.

• RAM-Based Servers: A newer trend, but a crucial one. RAM-based servers mean no data is stored on hard drives, ensuring all data wipes clean on every reboot.

The Best VPNs for Privacy by Reddit

Here is a detailed list of the best VPNs for privacy according to Reddit users:

1. PureVPN

PureVPN stands out with its unique “always-on” audit structure, meaning its systems are open for scrutiny anytime. With four proven no-log audits, PureVPN assures users that their online activities are not recorded. It is also one of the few to offer quantum-resistant encryption, a technology prepped for future threats.

The VPN also provides obfuscated servers, making VPN use less detectable in countries with stringent regulations. Furthermore, potential leaks, often a concern for VPN users, are effectively handled with its IPv6, DNS, and WebRTC leak protection features.

Pros:

• “Always-on” audit structure
• Quantum-resistant encryption
• Supports WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2

Cons:

• Disk-based servers

Also read: Online Privacy by PureVPN

Get PureVPN

2. Mullvad

Mullvad truly walks the talk when it comes to user privacy. Their dedication was put to the test during a police raid, where officers left empty-handed because Mullvad did not store any user data. An independent audit of their VPN servers also confirms that they genuinely do not log customer data.

You can sign up and use the service without giving away any personal details. Their support for both WireGuard and OpenVPN, coupled with obfuscation features, ensures a seamless and private browsing experience. Plus, with DNS leak protection and IPv6 support, they have got all bases covered to ensure you stay protected online.

Pros:

• No personal information required during sign up
• Quantum-resistant tunnels 
• Proven no-log policy

Cons:

• No IKEv2 support
  

3. Private Internet Access

On multiple occasions, PIA’s no-log policy was upheld in court, proving they do not store user activity. This is not just courtroom chatter, either – their no-log stance has been verified through independent audits, reinforcing their dedication to protecting user privacy.

PIA keeps up its reputation with open-source VPN apps, allowing for transparency and community-driven enhancements. Features like WebRTC and DNS leak protection seal off potential data leaks, while the kill switch ensures your connection stays private even if the VPN drops.

Pros:

• Unlimited simultaneous connections 
• MACE (blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites)
• Uses WireGuard and OpenVPN

Cons:

• Based in the United States
  

Also read: PureVPN vs Private Internet Access: Which is better in 2024?

4. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN places user privacy at the forefront with the use of RAM-based servers, which means no data gets stored on hard drives, automatically wiping any traces post-session. Their commitment to not tracking user activity has been put to the test and confirmed through independent audits.

Furthermore, ExpressVPN shines with its support for multiple protocols like IKEv2, OpenVPN, and Lightway (designed for rapid yet secure connections). Couple this with its DNS leak protection, and your online actions remain yours alone. Plus, the Threat Manager feature ensures that sneaky apps do not track you.

Pros:

• Super-fast connections
• RAM-based servers 
• Easy-to-use apps

Cons:

• Expensive subscriptions
  

5. NordVPN

NordVPN has proven its privacy promise not once, but three times through independent audits of its no-log policy. Their use of RAM-based servers ensures data is not stored long-term, vanishing after each session.

When it comes to enhanced privacy features, NordVPN brings out the big guns. Obfuscation hides VPN traffic, while Double VPN, Onion over VPN, and Threat Protection layer on added security. Plus, the versatility of supporting WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2 protocols cements NordVPN as a top-tier choice.

Pros:

• Based in Panama
• Threat Protection (anti-malware tool)
• SmartDNS support

Cons:

• Occasional connection issues

Also read: PureVPN vs NordVPN: Which VPN is Better in 2024?

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a VPN give full privacy?

A VPN hides your online activity from your internet service provider (ISP) and potential snoops, but it does not provide complete privacy. Therefore, you should always combine a VPN with other privacy tools for better protection.

What does a VPN not hide?

A VPN masks your IP and encrypts your online traffic, but it does not hide your device’s physical location, stop websites from using cookies to track you, or prevent malware infections. Learn more about what a VPN hides and what it does not.