5 Best VPNs for Brave Browser in 2023 — Apps & Extensions

Although Brave browser offers extra security, it doesn't encrypt your data. So your browsing is still vulnerable to hackers and snoops. Unfortunately, most VPN browser extensions for Brave are only proxies, so they don’t encrypt your data and have limited features.

It’s best to use Brave with a VPN app that protects your whole device rather than a proxy extension. Not only will this encrypt your information to keep you safe, but It will mask your real IP address and protect every app that uses the internet. You’ll also get extra security features, like leak protection, and a kill switch, and even ad blockers to boost Brave’s built-in tools.

I tested over 40 VPNs with Brave browser, and ExpressVPN is my top choice. Unlike most services, its Chrome browser extension (compatible with Brave) provides a variety of robust security features like military-grade encryption for safe and private browsing. You can try ExpressVPN with Brave risk-free since it has a 30-day money-back guarantee.

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Best VPNs for Brave Browser — Full Analysis (Updated 2023)

1. ExpressVPN — Our Top Brave Browser Extension With Fully-Loaded VPN Features

ExpressVPN’s full-feature Chrome extension is fully compatible with Brave. Most VPN extensions are proxies, which mask your IP but won’t encrypt your data. However, ExpressVPN’s extension works like a “remote control” for its VPN app. When you connect ExpressVPN via its Chrome extension, it protects your entire device.

You can also enable Block WebRTC on the browser extension to prevent websites from finding your real location

ExpressVPN provides Ultra HD-friendly speeds with its proprietary Lightway protocol. It still offers OpenVPN, but Lightway provided the fastest speeds during my tests. That’s because ExpressVPN has removed all the lines of code which aren’t necessary for a commercial protocol to give you great speeds while keeping your Brave browsing safe. It's even faster than WireGuard.

I tested 2 nearby servers and got an average speed drop of 6%. When I connected to a server in the US, I only lost around 15% from my base speeds, which I found impressive considering I’m thousands of miles away. I even watched YouTube Australia for 3 hours, and it played smoothly on Brave with zero buffering (and no ads!).

While it’s not the cheapest on my list, you can try ExpressVPN risk-free, as every plan is backed by a money-back guarantee. If it’s not for you, you can claim a full refund within 30 days. I wanted to test this to check its reliability, so I used 24/7 live chat to request a refund. The friendly agent agreed without asking questions. I got my money back in 3 days.

Useful Features

• Responsive servers. All 3,000 servers support streaming, gaming, and downloading. You can watch Ted Lasso, play League of Legends, and download a torrent file on Brave without swapping servers or switching settings.
• Threat Manager. While Brave’s ad blocking is automated, the ExpressVPN team continuously updates and maintains a blocklist of domains that contain dangerous content. Once activated, Threat Manager prevents you from accessing a host of malware-containing sites on Brave (or any other browser).
• RAM-only servers. Some VPNs use servers with hard drives that are capable of storing user data. That’s not possible with ExpressVPN’s TrustedServer technology. Its RAM-only servers automatically wipe all your Brave browsing upon reboot; no data is written to memory.
• Fully audited no-logs policy. ExpressVPN’s no-logs policy has been court-proven on multiple occasions. Plus, its base is in the British Virgin Islands, outside the jurisdiction of the 5/9/14 Eyes alliance.

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2. CyberGhost — Optimized Servers for Streaming and Torrenting on Brave

CyberGhost offers optimized servers for streaming and torrenting. I used a torrenting server to download a 4.29GB file using uTorrent on Brave, and the file was safely on my hard drive within minutes. The streaming-optimized servers let me access every platform I tested them with, including Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+.

It’s easy to find the right server on CyberGhost’s intuitive app

You can boost Brave’s ad-blocking abilities with CyberGhsot’s Block content feature, which prevents trackers, ads, and malicious websites. Using Brave alone blocked 72% of ads. When I activated CyberGhost’s Block Content, it prevented an impressive 89% of ads and dangerous content.

CyberGhost’s Chrome browser extension is minimal compared to ExpressVPN’s. It’s a free proxy, so it doesn’t encrypt your data. However, the CyberGhost app covers your entire device, including your Brave browsing sessions. And with 1-click connect, it’s just as easy to use as a browser extension.

Its 45-day money-back guarantee gives you plenty of time to test CyberGhost out with Brave browser. You can easily claim a refund if it isn’t right for you. I tested this out for myself, and it was just as easy as with ExpressVPN.

Useful Features

• Budget-friendly long-term plans. You can protect your Brave browsing for a low price with CyberGhost’s long-term plan. At the time of writing, it’s 78% cheaper than Brave’s VPN extension.
• Pre-configured security features. Core security features like the kill switch and leak protection are pre-configured and work automatically. This makes CyberGhost a great choice for VPN beginners.
• CyberGhost Private Browser. Each CyberGhost account comes with a free Private Browser, which you may prefer to Brave. It’s also based on Chrome, so it looks almost identical, and it blocks a similar number of ads.
• A choice of protocols. CyberGhost offers WireGuard, the industry-leading open-source protocol built for speed, which I recommend for desktop Brave browsing. You also get IKEv2, which is great for mobile browsing as it’s good at switching between data sources.

Try CyberGhost for Brave >>

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Plenty of Adjustable Features to Enhance Your Security on Brave

PIA provides tons of adjustable settings to optimize your connection for browsing on Brave. I was easily switched between the faster WireGuard to stream and the more secure OpenVPN. You can also set up rules to automate PIA — I tested its Connection Automation on my laptop by setting it to connect whenever I’m on WiFi, which worked perfectly.

You can also bolster blocking of ads, trackers, and malware by enabling PIA MACE. The percent of ads blocked increased by 18% when I used MACE with Brave. Because MACE works at the DNS level, Brave doesn’t even load this content, which helped to improve my browsing speeds.

You can activate the PIA MACE blocker with one click in Settings > Privacy

PIA has a Chrome extension that’s fully compatible with the Brave browser. It’s a shame that it only protects the data from your browser, and can’t be used to activate the main app to protect your entire device. However, the main app is just as easy to use as an extension — I blocked Brave from accessing my camera and microphone in a few clicks.

PIA’s plans all have a reliable 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it with Brave risk-free If it’s not what you were hoping for, it’s easy to claim a full refund.

Useful Features

• Encryption switching. When you use OpenVPN with PIA, you can switch from the standard 256-bit encryption (secure but a little slower) to 128-bit (faster but a little less secure). This helps you to optimize your speeds for things like streaming and torrenting.
• Fast speeds. I got slowdowns of just 5% from a local server when I did a speed test on Brave. I got a 54% loss from Australia, though, so long-distance speeds aren’t as impressive.
• Split Tunnel. Set certain apps and sites to override the VPN. I set Chrome as my non-VPN browser for banking and other non-ad-heavy activities. That freed up more bandwidth for fun stuff on Brave over the VPN.
• Large server network. No matter where you are in the world, you’re more likely to have a nearby server for faster speeds when you’re using Brave.

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4. NordVPN — Onion Over VPN Servers for Safer Anonymous Brave Browsing

NordVPN’s Onion Over VPN servers provide a safer alternative to Brave's Tor Windows. Tor is run by volunteers, so anyone can set up a node on the network, leaving your data vulnerable to malicious actors. Onion Over VPN servers hide your IP and encrypt your data so you can browse the dark web safely and privately.

You’ll also get extra protection from NordVPN's Dark Web Monitor. This continuously scans the dark web for leaks of your personal information. This feature is a great extra safety net to have, particularly given the increasing rate of data breaches and other cyberattacks.

Unfortunately, NordVPN’s Threat Protection feature didn’t perform as well as the VPN ad blockers on this list. When I tested it with Brave, it blocked 83% of ads. It was still better than using Brave on its own (and definitely better than using other browsers like Chrome), though.

You can try NordVPN with Brave with a money-back guarantee. If you don’t like it, you’ve got 30 days to claim a refund.

Useful Features

• Proprietary NordLynx protocol. When you connect with WireGuard, you share an IP with everyone using the server — making it easier to identify the use of a VPN. NordLynx provides every user with a different IP, making it easier to access streaming platforms on Brave.
• Chrome browser extension. NordVPN offers a user-friendly Chrome browser extension that works seamlessly with Brave Browser. Like CyberGhost, it’s only a proxy and not a full VPN, so it won’t encrypt your data.
• Meshnet. Link all your devices to create a private mini-VPN network, which is great for Brave users with many devices. You can also connect to other NordVPN user’s devices so it’s easy to share photos and other files with your family or household.

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5. Surfshark — Unlimited Connections Protects Your Brave Browsing on All Your Devices

With just one Surfshark subscription, users of the Brave browser can secure an unlimited count of devices all at once. This ensures there's never a need to log out from any device, marking it as a prime selection for large families requiring dependable VPN connection.

There’s a wide range of servers to suit everyone, too. Surfshark’s rotating IP address servers offer great security when you need it most — I used this while torrenting. There’s also static IP servers, which I used to protect my online banking without having to worry about completing a CAPTCHA every time.

I only lost 6% of my base speed while testing a local server, but it sometimes took me up to 30 seconds to connect. The further away I was trying to connect, the longer it took. There are plenty of alternative servers to try if one takes too long, though.

You can try Surfshark with your favorite Brave sites risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re unhappy, claiming a refund is straightforward.

Useful Features

• Adjustable MultiHop. Choose from 13 preset MultiHop locations, or create your own from Surfshark’s 100 countries. I wanted to keep my Brave browsing private, so I used Sweden and Switzerland, which both have excellent privacy laws.
• Adjustable Quick Connect. Select Fastest location or Nearest country, or choose from any of Surfshark’s locations so you can start browsing on Brave faster.
• Cookie pop-up blocker. This feature rejects all possible cookies while a website is loading, so you won't have to deal with pop-ups whenever you visit a new website. This is super useful if (like me) you regularly visit different blogs to find new recipes and crafting inspiration.

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Quick Comparison Table: Brave Browser VPN Features

When looking for a Brave VPN, there are certain features to look for that enhance your privacy and browsing experience. For instance, some VPNs offer a Chrome extension that’s fully compatible with Brave. However, most are just proxies, so you’ll get better protection with a full VPN app.

In addition, choosing a VPN with fast speeds will help minimize slowdowns. And while Brave’s ad blocking is solid, many VPNs have built-in blockers that are better at stopping malware and dangerous files.

The table below compares the essential features of my recommended Brave browser VPNs.

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Tips on Choosing the Best VPN for Brave Browser

Below are the criteria I considered while testing my recommended VPNs. Feel free to use this as a checklist to help you make a decision when choosing the best VPN for Brave:

• Strong security features. At the very least, your VPN should offer 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and leak protection to ensure your Brave browser activities are secure. All the VPNs on my list offer this and more to help keep you safe.
• No-logs policy. All the VPNs shortlisted adhere to a strict no-logs policy, so you know they will not store, record, or share your data with any third parties.
• Easy to use. Whether you’ve never used a VPN before or you’re familiar with these apps, I’ve made sure there’s an option here for you. Every VPN app and extension on this list is easy to use.
• Fast speeds. For uninterrupted browsing, streaming, and torrenting, it’s best to use a VPN with fast servers. Slow speeds lead to buffering and lag while you navigate Brave. Each of my recommended VPNs gave me no more than 10% speed loss on nearby servers so you won’t notice any slowdowns.
• Reliable network. VPNs with large global server networks are best for giving you reliable access to geoblocked content while maintaining fast speeds. I made sure each VPN has plenty of global servers and can access popular streaming platforms.
• Responsive customer support. It’s best if the VPN offers 24/7 live chat (like those in this list) so you can get answers and support without a long waiting period. Alternative support methods to look for are email or a contact form.
• Trustworthy money-back guarantee. All the VPNs on my list offer a money-back guarantee you can trust, so you can try them with Brave with no financial risk. It was simple to get a refund with these VPNs.

Try ExpressVPN for Brave >>

FAQs on VPNs for Brave Browser

Is Brave Firewall + VPN safe, or should I use a full VPN?

Yes, but I don’t recommend it. It’s far more expensive than any of the VPNs on my list, which isn’t great value when you can get a VPN with better features than Brave VPN for a lower price.

On top of that, each VPN on this list offers at least a 30-day money-back guarantee, while Brave VPN only gives you 7 days. So, you’ve got a lot more time to see whether it’s right for you.

How do I set up a VPN extension on Brave browser?

That’s easy. Choose a reputable VPN provider with a compatible extension. Download the extension, and follow the installation instructions. Once installed, click the black jigsaw piece logo in the top right of the Brave’s menu bar. Your VPN will appear in a dropdown menu of your browser extensions.

Log in with your VPN account details (you won’t have to do this with ExpressVPN because it automatically integrates with the main app). Next, select a server location and click Connect. And that’s it! You can now browse with Brave privately and securely.

What can I do if my VPN for Brave browser stops working?

If your VPN for Brave browser stops working, here are some troubleshooting tips to help you resolve the issue:

• Check your internet connection. Ensure you have a stable internet connection and try reconnecting to the VPN.
• Change server location. Switch to a different server or location within your VPN provider's network to see if it resolves the connectivity problem. This is why I only recommend VPNs with large server networks, as it means you have plenty of options to choose from if you're having technical issues.
• Restart the VPN and Brave browser. Close and reopen both the VPN client and Brave to refresh the connection.
• Update Brave and VPN software. Check for any updates for your VPN software and Brave, and install them to ensure you have the latest version.
• Contact VPN support. If the issue persists, contact your VPN provider's customer support for further assistance.

Does Brave Browser come with a built-in VPN?

Brave has a VPN add-on, but you have to pay for it. But you’d be better off using a VPN that’s tried and tested to work with Brave. Brave’s VPN features are very limited, and at $99.99/year, it’s far more expensive than any of the services on my list.

On what devices can I use a VPN with Brave browser?

You can use a VPN with Brave browser on various devices, including:

• Windows. Brave browser and VPN clients are compatible with Windows devices, providing secure browsing on PCs and laptops.
• macOS. Brave browser and VPN services work seamlessly on macOS, ensuring privacy and security on Mac computers, including Mac Mini, MacBook Pro, and iMac.
• Linux. Brave browser and VPN apps are available for popular Linux devices, allowing for safe browsing.
• Android. Brave browser is available for Android devices, and you can install VPN apps from reputable providers for secure browsing on smartphones and tablets. Fire Sticks, Fire TVs, and Fire Cubes are also supported.
• iOS. Brave browser is compatible with iOS devices, including iPads and iPhones, and you can use VPN apps from trusted providers to ensure privacy and security.

Are Tor tabs safe to use on Brave browser?

Yes, but they have limitations because the Tor network itself isn’t completely secure. I recommend using a VPN to encrypt your data and hide your IP when using the network. Tor bounces your data across a network of volunteer-run servers, so there’s no guarantee that one of them won’t compromise you.

If you use a VPN, your browsing will remain private — even if a volunteer is spying on user data. VPNs hide your IP addresses to protect your identity and location, plus they guard your data with encryption that’s virtually impossible to crack.

Should I use a free VPN for Brave browser?

No, I don’t recommend it as many free VPNs aren’t safe. Free VPNs often record and sell your personal information and browsing activity to third parties to make money. It’s not worth using a free VPN when you can get a low-cost premium VPN that won’t compromise your privacy.

Free VPNs can also lack basic security settings such as leak protection and a kill switch. Without these, you can easily be exposed to malware, trackers, and prying eyes whenever you use Brave browser.

Get the Best VPN for Brave Browser Today

Using a VPN in combination with Brave browser is an easy way to enhance your privacy. The problem is that most browser extensions are proxies and can’t protect your data like a full VPN app can. In these cases, using a VPN app to cover your entire device is best.

I recommend ExpressVPN as the best VPN for Brave because its browser extension is just as safe as the VPN app and integrates seamlessly with Brave. It offers security and privacy features to safeguard your browsing, plus Ultra HD-friendly speeds for lag-free streaming. You can try ExpressVPN risk-free since it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs for Brave browser...