7 Best Browser VPNs That Work — 100% Safe & Private (2023)

A browser VPN is a nice and easy way to protect your browsing data while using the internet. You can use one without installing a VPN or adjusting your device settings manually. But out of the thousands of browser VPNs available, many of them are unsafe, making it hard to find one that isn’t.

To help protect you from online dangers, I tested 30+ browser VPNs and shortlisted the best ones that protect your privacy. They all have browser extensions for most browsers that you can turn on or off with one click. However, they will only protect your browser and not your entire device, so take note when using other apps.

My favorite browser VPN is ExpressVPN, as its user-friendly browser extensions, fast speeds, and robust security features let you browse safely and efficiently. It’s even backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can test all its features confidently. If you don’t like it, you can ask for a refund.

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7 Best Browser VPNs in 2022 — Full Analysis (Updated in 2023)

1.ExpressVPN — Ultra-Fast Speeds For Efficient Web Browsing

ExpressVPN’s lightning-fast speeds ensure a smooth and reliable browsing experience. I recorded an average download speed of 49.8 Mbps and 48.4 Mbps when I tested its US and UK servers to watch Netflix. It was well above the 25 Mbps needed for UltraHD, and I didn't experience any lag the entire time. Therefore, you can stream shows and download large files without hassle.

By using ExpressVPN’s server network of 3,000 servers in 94 countries, you can reliably bypass geoblocks. Since its server network is large, you’ll have more chances to access geo-restricted sites from anywhere. By simply connecting to a US or UK server with one click, I unblocked Netflix, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer in no more than 10 seconds.

ExpressVPN easily unblocked Netflix US and allowed me to watch without interruptions

It has browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge, which are easy to use and install. Downloading and installing it onto my Chrome browser took less than 10 seconds, and I could connect to any server with one click. The extension also enables DNS/IP leak protection, preventing your IP address or browsing activity from being exposed accidentally.

The main negative of ExpressVPN is its price, as it’s on the expensive end of the spectrum. The cheapest plans start at $6.67/month. But it’s possible to save by taking advantage of many deals and special offers on its website. I even got my first 2 months for free when I signed up.

If you’re on the fence, you can use ExpressVPN’s 30-day money-back guarantee and try its full features risk-free. To test this policy, I asked a live chat representative to cancel my subscription on day 30. After asking me a simple question about my experience, he proceeded with my request, and I was fully refunded after 3 business days.

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2. CyberGhost — Easy to Use Browser Extension for Chrome and Firefox

CyberGhost’s browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox are suitable for all levels. I installed it on my Chrome browser in 10 seconds on my MacBook Pro and smartphone. Finding and connecting to a server was even quicker, as it only took me 2 clicks. In short, you can protect your browser in no time.

It has an extensive server network of 9,487 servers in 91 countries, including optimized servers for streaming and downloading. The streaming servers are specifically designed for sites like Netflix US and Disney+ so that you can access the sites from anywhere. When I tested its Netflix US and BBC iPlayer servers from Japan, I easily unblocked both sites.

I had instant access to Netflix's US library with CyberGhost

Additionally, CyberGhost’s no-logs policy prevents your browsing activity from being recorded. Plus, its RAM-based servers wipe all server data after every reboot to further protect your privacy. And since its home base is in Romania, it can’t be subjected to any data retention laws because the country has friendly privacy laws. Therefore, you can use your browser privately.

One negative of CyberGhost is its expensive short-term plans because they come with a reduced money-back guarantee period (14 days vs. 45 days). But you can get a long-term plan from $2.19/month, which is more affordable. It comes with the same features as the short-term plan.

If you find CyberGhost is not for you, you can use its 45-day money-back guarantee to claim a full refund. I asked a live chat agent to cancel my subscription to test this policy. After I gave my reason for canceling, I got my money back after 3 business days.

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3. Private Internet Access — Customizable Browser VPN With Advanced Security Features

Private Internet Access (PIA) is a browser VPN with customizable security features. It can block WebRTC IP detection to conceal your IP address and encrypts unencrypted HTTP connections. When I ran some DNS/IP leaks on its US and UK servers, it didn't detect any leaks. Therefore, your browser data won't be revealed accidentally.

Private Internet Access won’t leak your DNS requests or IP address

PIA’s fast speeds ensure reliable browser connections that don’t lag. During my speeds tests, my download speeds never dropped below 45.5 Mbps on both its US and UK servers. Considering I’m more than 10,000 km away from both countries, I was impressed because long distances can significantly reduce speeds.

In addition to its no-logs policy, PIA’s browser extension has some added privacy settings to keep you private. You can block microphone and location access, disable credit card and address autofill, and disable third-party cookies. It even has its own ad and malware blocker called MACE, so you’ll stay protected from malicious parties.

I was initially concerned about PIA’s US home base, which is at the heart of the 14 Eyes Alliance. This is a network of countries that collect and share data about their citizens. But since PIA adheres to an independently audited no-logs policy, it doesn't collect user data.

When I looked at its pricing plans, I found its 3-year plan to be the cheapest at $2.03/month. While short-term plans have the same features, the long-term plans provide bigger savings over the long run.

There’s even a 30-day money-back guarantee that lets you test PIA completely free. When I was finished, I asked them to cancel my subscription through live chat. After telling them that it wasn't for me, the agent went ahead with my request, and my money showed up after 4 business days.

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4. ZenMate — Specialized Servers for Streaming That Increase Browser Speeds

ZenMate’s server network consists of 4,700 servers in 81 countries, including streaming optimized servers. These servers give you reliable access to streaming sites from anywhere and produce fast speeds. When I connected to its US and UK streaming servers, I easily unblocked US Netflix and BBC iPlayer, and my download speed averaged 43.8 Mbps.

ZenMate let me watch shows on a smooth and reliable stream

You’ll be able to enjoy private browsing, too, thanks to ZenMate’s strict no-logs policy. This feature hides your browsing behavior, location, and IP address, so you can’t be traced. Additionally, malicious parties like advertisers can’t collect your data since ZenMate has its own ad and malware blocker, keeping you safe.

There are also several security features that let you keep your browser protected. You can choose between AES-128 or 256-bit encryption to balance speed and security, while its kill switch and DNS/IP leak protection prevent your data from being leaked accidentally. In short, your sensitive information will be well protected.

What I found inconvenient about ZenMate was its lack of a live chat feature. However, you can submit requests through its website and find detailed answers on its FAQ and support page. Its cheapest plan is the 3-year plan which starts at $1.99/month. It’s much more affordable than the short-term plans and no different features-wise.

You can event test all of ZenMate’s features for free by using its 30-day money-back guarantee. I wanted to see if it was the real deal, so I submitted a cancelation request online. They agreed to my request 13 hours later, and I received a full refund after 4 business days.

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5. Proton VPN — Based in Privacy-Friendly Switzerland to Protect Your Privacy

Proton VPN is based in Switzerland, a country outside the 14 Eyes Alliance with strong privacy laws. This means it won’t hand over your data to authorities because it can’t get pressured into doing so. Added to this is its no-logs policy, which prevents unwanted parties from collecting your data and selling it. Therefore, your browser data will be in the right hands.

Your browsing data will be safe using Proton VPN

It’s also compatible with most popular browsers, including Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge, and Opera. Not only is Proton VPN highly compatible, but it’s easy to download and install on these browsers. It took me less than 15 seconds to install the Chrome extension, while finding and connecting to a server was even faster. In short, you can use Proton VPN without any technical knowledge.

By using Proton VPN’s server network of 2,979 servers in 68 countries, you can easily unblock geo-restricted sites from anywhere. To test this, I connected to 3 US servers and tried to unblock US Netflix and Hulu, which worked every time. After connecting to a server, I could access the sites like I usually would.

A minor con of Proton VPN is its expensive top plan. But its basic plan is more affordable at $4.99/month and comes with decent features, so you can still get a lot of value.

You can also test all of Proton VPN’s features for free as it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. After using the service for 30 days, I asked them to cancel my subscription via email. They agreed with my request, and I got all my money back after 4 business days.

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6. Hotspot Shield — Catapult Hydra Maximises Browser Speeds for Streaming

Hotspot Shield can produce lightning-fast speeds, thanks to its unique protocol called Catapult Hydra. When I tried catapult Hydra on a couple of US servers, my download speed averaged 42.6 Mbps. The same servers with the OpenVPN protocol produced an average speed of 38.8 Mbps, so it made a difference. In short, you can browse the internet without any buffering.

Hotspot Shield has several protocols to choose from

Its robust security features will secure your browser data and keep you private. Features like AES-256 bit encryption and an automatic kill switch keep your data safe from unwanted parties, making it particularly handy on public WiFi networks. Additionally, its virus and malware protection protects you from hackers and malicious attacks.

I initially found the privacy policy of Hotspot Shield to be quite unclear. However, upon detailed examination, I realized that it only gathers fundamental information such as your email address and username. Given that it doesn't accumulate user logs, it doesn't pose any substantial concerns.

If you want to save money, you can subscribe to a long-term plan, which starts at $2.99/month. It has the same features as a short-term plan so that you won’t miss out.

And since it’s backed by a 45-day money-back guarantee, you can try Hotspot Shield completely free. When I submitted a refund request through their website, they agreed without question, and I got my money back by the end of the week.

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7. hide.me — Robust Security Features to Protect Your Data in China

hide.me has robust security features that protect your internet browser. It uses military-grade encryption to make your connection impenetrable, while its Stealth Guard feature stops DNS/IP leaks. No DNS/IP leaks were uncovered when I tested its US and Australia servers, meaning your data won’t be revealed by accident.

hideme secures your browser connection on its servers

By using hide.me’s global server network of 2,100 servers, which means you’ll find plenty of ways to bypass geoblocks. During my streaming tests, I unblocked US Netflix and ITV by connecting to 3 US and 2 UK servers. Even though 1 US server couldn't unblock Netflix, I had no issues with the other 2. Therefore, it’s possible to watch your favorite shows while traveling abroad.

I was a bit disappointed when I discovered that hide.me doesn’t have an app for some devices, like smart TVs. However, you can protect any WiFi-enabled device by installing it on your home router.

Its pricing plans are reasonable, as the cheapest plans costs $2.59/month. You can also get up to a 74% discount by taking advantage of some deals on its website.

It’s even possible to test hide.me for free since it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. I asked for a refund via live chat to see if this policy was trustworthy. The agent agreed with my request without any issues, and they returned my money after 5 business days.

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Quick Comparison Table: Browser VPN Features

Tips on How to Choose the Best Browser VPNs

To make my recommendations as helpful as possible, I reported results on dozens of essential VPN features. This provides a clearer picture of each browser VPN, so feel free to use the list below to guide your decisions.

• Browser compatibility — This ensures that your VPN can be installed on a browser and protect it. I only selected VPNs with browser extensions for popular browsers like Chrome and Firefox, along with others.
• Ease of use — Technical knowledge should never be a pre-requisite for using a VPN. I made sure that anyone could install and use the VPNs on my list, regardless of their experience.
• Robust security features — VPNs with military-grade encryption, advanced protocols, and DNS/IP leaks protection were highly favored. These features stop your browser data from being exposed to malicious parties.
• No-logs policy — This feature protects your privacy as it prevents your browsing activity from being recorded. It means you won’t leave a digital footprint behind.
• Extensive server network — A large server network provides access to various sites and services from different countries. I confirmed that every VPN on my list has a comprehensive network of global servers.
• Fast speeds — You need at least 5 Mbps for HD streaming and 25 Mbps for Ultra HD, so I only went for VPNs that can produce more than those figures. I conducted various speed tests to make sure of this.
• Helpful customer support — Help should be readily available when needed, so I ensured that every VPN has different support channels available. These include 24/7 live chat, email, phone, and a FAQ page.
• Affordable Prices — I looked for VPNs with affordable pricing plans and generous discounts, which you can find online. Another aspect I considered was a money-back guarantee period, so you can test a VPN before committing to an ongoing subscription.

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FAQs on the Best Browser VPNs

Are browser VPNs safe?

Some browser VPNs are safe while others aren’t, so it depends. Generally speaking, free browser VPNs are dangerous because they compromise your privacy and security. Plus, they enforce speed limits, data caps, and restrict features. A better option is to use a top-tier VPN that comes with a money-back guarantee, which encrypts your traffic and doesn’t collect logs. This lets you browse in private while protecting your data.

What’s the difference between a browser extension and a VPN app?

A browser extension will only protect your browser, while a VPN app protects your entire device. Since most browser extensions are HTTP proxies, only your browser data will go through the encrypted proxy. Therefore, your ISP can still see your traffic from apps like Spotify and Slack.

If you’d like to protect all of your apps, you can download and install a VPN’s native app. The best browser VPNs have native apps for most devices, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.

Will a browser VPN protect my browsing history?

A quality browser VPN won’t protect your browsing history, as it will still be stored on your device. To clear your browsing history, you’ll need to delete it manually or use private (incognito) mode. However, a reliable browser VPN like ExpressVPN will encrypt your connection, which hides your data from your ISP and other third parties. It also conceals your actual IP address, making it harder to link your browsing activity to your identity if someone got hold of it.

Is it worth using a free VPN browser plugin?

No, free VPN browser plugins are not worth it, even though they’re free. Most of them collect your data and sell it to advertisers to make money. Additionally, they lack military-grade encryption and impose data caps and speed limits, resulting in a frustrating user experience. And having a tiny server network slows your speeds even more as the servers are usually overcrowded.

Therefore, your best option is to get a safe browser VPN backed by a money-back guarantee. This lets you test all its features risk-free before committing to an ongoing subscription.

Does Chrome have its own browser VPN?

Google Chrome doesn't have its own browser VPN, so you’ll need to install a browser extension or use a native app. The extension will only protect Chrome, but an app will protect your entire device, so keep this in mind when deciding. In saying this, it’s best to avoid free VPN extensions as they pose a serious risk to your online security. Plus, they jeopardize your privacy by gathering and selling your browser data.

Is using a browser VPN on incognito mode necessary?

It’s essential if you want to protect your internet security and privacy. The only benefit of incognito mode is that it doesn’t record your browsing history or save user details, like login names. This means other people who use your device won’t see your browsing history. However, your ISP can still see your online activity, and your IP address is still visible, making it easy to identify you.

To hide your browsing activity from unwanted parties and encrypt your connection, you’ll need to use a browser VPN like ExpressVPN, which has robust security features. It’s even backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can buy it with confidence.

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Start Using a Browser VPN Now

Using a quality browser VPN will encrypt your browser connection, hide your IP address, and prevent third parties from tracking you. But with so many to choose from, it’s easy to choose one that’s unsafe, which puts your browser data at risk.

To help guide you in the right direction, I tested plenty of browser VPNs and found the safest options. These VPNs either have browser extensions or native apps that secure your browser data while surfing the internet.

The browser VPN I recommend is ExpressVPN, which has state-of-the-art security features, a strict no-logs policy, and a user-friendly browser extension for Chrome and Firefox. You can also try all its risk-free features since it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. This lets you ask for a refund if you don’t like it.

To summarize, the best browser VPNs are…