Finding the best VPN for torrenting can make a big difference in terms of privacy, security, and download speed. Not all VPNs are suitable for torrenting, so it’s crucial to choose one that meets specific requirements and is the VPN that is meant for Torrenting. Otherwise you not only risk spoiling your browsing experience, but you’ll also be vulnerable to data breaches. We have covered each of the top and most popular VPN services in detail and this is an independent review for our readers to learn more about what they want to use. First, we take a quick look at the important pointers and comparison of all the top VPNs for torrenting and then you can read about each of the top torrenting VPNs in detail.
TL;DR
- When it comes to torrenting, the best VPNs offer a balance of speed, security, and privacy.
- NordVPN stands out with robust security features, high speeds, and extensive server coverage.
- ExpressVPN is known for exceptional speed and reliability, while CyberGhost provides dedicated P2P servers and user-friendly apps.
- Surfshark offers affordability and unlimited device connections.
- Private Internet Access (PIA) boasts a massive server network and customizable features.
- Mullvad emphasizes privacy with anonymous account creation and strong security.
- IPVanish delivers fast speeds and unlimited device connections.
- ProtonVPN focuses on privacy with Secure Core architecture, and Windscribe offers a generous free plan and ad/malware blocker.
- CyberGhost offers a 45-day money-back guarantee, which is the longest among the VPNs mentioned. Most others, including NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Surfshark, and IPVanish, offer a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Why Use a VPN for Torrenting?
Using a VPN for torrenting is important for several reasons:
- Privacy: Torrenting without a VPN exposes your IP address to everyone in the peer-to-peer (P2P) network, posing a significant privacy risk. A VPN masks your IP address, making your activities anonymous.
- Security: Torrenting can expose your device to malware. A VPN encrypts your data, protecting it from hackers and other threats.
- Bypass Throttling: ISPs often throttle bandwidth if they detect torrenting. A VPN hides your activities from your ISP, preventing throttling and ensuring faster speeds.
- Legal Protection: In some regions, torrenting copyrighted material is illegal. A VPN can help you avoid legal issues by masking your IP address and keeping your activity private.
Criteria for Choosing the Best VPN for Torrenting
- Speed: Fast download and upload speeds are crucial for efficient torrenting.
- Security: Strong encryption and security protocols to protect your data.
- Privacy: A no-logs policy to ensure your online activities remain private.
- P2P Support: VPNs should explicitly support P2P file sharing.
- Jurisdiction: Based in a country with strong privacy laws, outside surveillance alliances.
- Kill Switch: Cuts your internet connection if the VPN drops, preventing data leaks.
- User-Friendliness: Easy-to-use apps across different devices.
- Customer Support: Reliable support for resolving any issues.
List of the Best VPNs for Torrenting With Pricing and Features Comparison
Here’s a detailed comparison chart for the VPN services mentioned, highlighting their pricing and key features:
VPN Service | Monthly Price (USD) | Yearly Price (USD) | Number of Servers | Number of Countries | Encryption | P2P Support | Protocols Supported | No-Logs Policy | Kill Switch | Ad/Malware Blocker | Simultaneous Connections | Money-Back Guarantee |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
NordVPN | $11.95 | $59.00 | 5,500+ | 59 | AES-256 | Yes | OpenVPN, IKEv2, NordLynx | Yes | Yes | Yes | 6 | 30 days |
ExpressVPN | $12.95 | $99.95 | 3,000+ | 94 | AES-256 | Yes | OpenVPN, IKEv2, Lightway | Yes | Yes | No | 5 | 30 days |
CyberGhost | $12.99 | $47.88 | 7,000+ | 91 | AES-256 | Yes | OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard | Yes | Yes | Yes | 7 | 45 days |
Surfshark | $12.95 | $59.76 | 3,200+ | 100 | AES-256 | Yes | OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard | Yes | Yes | Yes | Unlimited | 30 days |
Private Internet Access (PIA) | $11.95 | $39.95 | 35,000+ | 78 | AES-256 | Yes | OpenVPN, WireGuard | Yes | Yes | Yes | 10 | 30 days |
Mullvad | €5 (~$5.70) | €60 (~$68.40) | 750+ | 38 | AES-256 | Yes | OpenVPN, WireGuard | Yes | Yes | No | Unlimited | None |
IPVanish | $10.99 | $44.99 | 2,000+ | 75+ | AES-256 | Yes | OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard | Yes | Yes | No | Unlimited | 30 days |
ProtonVPN | $9.99 | $71.88 | 1,500+ | 63 | AES-256 | Yes | OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard | Yes | Yes | No | 10 | 30 days |
Windscribe | $9.00 | $49.00 | 600+ | 63 | AES-256 | Yes | OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard | Yes | Yes | Yes | Unlimited | 30 days |
Notes on the Features and Pricing:
- Monthly Price: Represents the cost for a one-month subscription.
- Yearly Price: Represents the cost for a one-year subscription, often paid upfront.
- Number of Servers: Indicates the total number of servers available globally.
- Number of Countries: Indicates the number of countries where the VPN has servers.
- Encryption: Specifies the type of encryption used to secure data.
- P2P Support: Indicates whether the VPN supports peer-to-peer (P2P) file sharing.
- Protocols Supported: Lists the VPN protocols supported by the service.
- No-Logs Policy: Indicates whether the VPN service logs user activity.
- Kill Switch: Indicates whether the VPN has a feature to cut off internet connection if the VPN drops, protecting the user’s real IP address.
- Ad/Malware Blocker: Indicates whether the VPN service includes features to block ads and malware.
- Simultaneous Connections: Specifies the number of devices that can be connected simultaneously under one subscription.
- Money-Back Guarantee: Specifies the duration of the money-back guarantee period, allowing users to get a refund if they are not satisfied with the service.
Best VPNs for Torrenting in 2024
Now here’s a detailed guide to the best VPNs for Torrenting that you can rely on. We have already shared the list and the pricing and features details briefly. However, we encourage you to read these in detail to make an informed decision.
1. NordVPN
NordVPN consistently ranks as a top choice for torrenting due to its robust security features and impressive speeds. With over 5,500 servers in 59 countries, NordVPN offers extensive coverage, ensuring you can always find a fast and reliable connection. The service supports P2P traffic on many of its servers, and its strict no-logs policy guarantees your privacy.
NordVPN uses AES-256 encryption, which is considered unbreakable. It also offers a feature called Double VPN, which routes your traffic through two servers instead of one, adding an extra layer of security. For those particularly concerned about privacy, NordVPN’s Onion Over VPN feature allows you to route your traffic through the Tor network while connected to the VPN.
Speed is crucial for torrenting, and NordVPN excels in this area. Its proprietary NordLynx protocol, based on WireGuard, delivers high-speed connections without compromising security. In tests, NordVPN consistently provides fast download and upload speeds, making it ideal for large file transfers.
NordVPN CyberSec
Another noteworthy feature is NordVPN’s CyberSec, which blocks ads and malware, providing a safer browsing experience. This is particularly useful when torrenting, as it minimizes the risk of encountering malicious content. Additionally, NordVPN’s kill switch ensures your internet connection is cut off if the VPN connection drops, preventing your real IP address from being exposed.
NordVPN offers user-friendly apps for various platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux. The service also supports router installations, allowing you to protect all devices on your network. With a 30-day money-back guarantee, NordVPN provides a risk-free way to test its features.
2. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is another top contender for torrenting, known for its exceptional speed and strong security features. With a network of over 3,000 servers in 94 countries, ExpressVPN offers a wide range of options for connecting to fast and reliable servers. The service supports P2P file sharing on all its servers, making it a versatile choice for torrenting.
ExpressVPN uses AES-256 encryption and supports various security protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and its proprietary Lightway protocol. Lightway is designed to offer faster connections and improved security, making it a great option for torrenting. ExpressVPN also has a strict no-logs policy, ensuring your online activities remain private.
In terms of speed, ExpressVPN performs exceptionally well. Its global network ensures you can find a fast server close to your location, minimizing latency and maximizing download speeds. Whether you’re downloading large files or streaming high-definition content, ExpressVPN provides a seamless experience.
Express VPN’s Split Tunneling
One of ExpressVPN’s standout features is its split tunneling, which allows you to choose which apps use the VPN connection and which use your regular internet connection. This can be useful for torrenting, as you can route your torrent client through the VPN while using your regular connection for other activities.
ExpressVPN’s apps are intuitive and easy to use, available on all major platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, and routers. The service also includes a kill switch and DNS leak protection, ensuring your real IP address is never exposed.
While ExpressVPN is slightly more expensive than some competitors, its performance and reliability make it a worthwhile investment. It also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to test the service risk-free.
3. CyberGhost
CyberGhost is a user-friendly VPN that offers dedicated servers for torrenting, making it a popular choice among torrent enthusiasts. With over 7,000 servers in 91 countries, CyberGhost provides extensive coverage and fast connections. The service’s dedicated P2P servers are optimized for speed and security, ensuring a smooth torrenting experience.
CyberGhost uses AES-256 encryption and supports multiple security protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard. Its strict no-logs policy ensures your online activities remain private, and the service includes features like an automatic kill switch and DNS leak protection to safeguard your data.
Speed is a critical factor for torrenting, and CyberGhost delivers impressive performance. Its optimized servers provide high-speed connections, allowing you to download large files quickly and efficiently. In speed tests, CyberGhost consistently ranks among the fastest VPNs, making it a reliable choice for torrenting.
CyberGhost Malware Blocker
One of CyberGhost’s unique features is its ad and malware blocker, which protects you from malicious content while torrenting. This adds an extra layer of security and enhances your overall browsing experience. CyberGhost also offers a NoSpy server option, which routes your traffic through servers located in privacy-friendly Romania, further enhancing your anonymity.
CyberGhost’s apps are designed with ease of use in mind, making them accessible even for VPN beginners. The service is compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, and routers, ensuring you can protect all your devices. CyberGhost also offers a generous 45-day money-back guarantee, giving you plenty of time to evaluate its features.
4. Surfshark
Surfshark is a relatively new VPN that has quickly gained popularity due to its affordable pricing and strong feature set. With over 3,200 servers in 100 countries, Surfshark offers extensive coverage and supports P2P traffic on all its servers. Its no-logs policy and advanced security features make it a great choice for torrenting.
Surfshark uses AES-256 encryption and supports various security protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard. The service also includes a MultiHop feature, which routes your traffic through multiple servers for added security. Surfshark’s CleanWeb feature blocks ads, trackers, and malware, providing a safer torrenting experience.
SurfShark Speeed
In terms of speed, Surfshark performs well, particularly when using the WireGuard protocol. Its global network ensures you can find a fast server close to your location, minimizing latency and maximizing download speeds. Whether you’re downloading large files or streaming content, Surfshark provides a reliable and fast connection.
One of Surfshark’s standout features is its ability to connect an unlimited number of devices with a single subscription. This makes it an excellent choice for families or individuals with multiple devices. Surfshark’s apps are intuitive and easy to use, available on all major platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, and routers.
Surfshark also includes a kill switch and DNS leak protection, ensuring your real IP address is never exposed. Its affordable pricing and 30-day money-back guarantee make it a cost-effective option for torrenting.
5. Private Internet Access (PIA)
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a well-established VPN known for its strong security features and customizable options. With over 35,000 servers in 78 countries, PIA offers extensive coverage and supports P2P traffic on all its servers. The service’s strict no-logs policy ensures your online activities remain private.
PIA uses AES-256 encryption and supports various security protocols, including OpenVPN and WireGuard. One of PIA’s standout features is its MACE feature, which blocks ads, trackers, and malware, enhancing your security while torrenting. PIA also includes an automatic kill switch and DNS leak protection to safeguard your data.
Speed is a critical factor for torrenting, and PIA delivers impressive performance. Its large server network ensures you can find a fast server close to your location, minimizing latency and maximizing download speeds. In speed tests, PIA consistently ranks among the fastest VPNs, making it a reliable choice for torrenting.
Compatible With Most Devices and Operating Systems
PIA’s apps are highly customizable, allowing you to fine-tune your connection settings for optimal performance. The service is compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, and routers, ensuring you can protect all your devices. PIA also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, giving you plenty of time to evaluate its features.
One of PIA’s unique features is its support for port forwarding, which can improve your torrenting speeds. This feature is particularly useful for users who want to maximize their download and upload speeds while maintaining a secure connection.
6. Mullvad
Mullvad is a privacy-focused VPN that offers strong security features and excellent performance for torrenting. Unlike many other VPNs, Mullvad does not require an email address or any personal information to create an account. Instead, it generates a random account number, ensuring complete anonymity.
Mullvad has over 750 servers in 38 countries, providing a good range of options for connecting to fast and reliable servers. The service supports P2P traffic on all its servers and has a strict no-logs policy, ensuring your online activities remain private.
Mullvad uses AES-256 encryption and supports various security protocols, including OpenVPN and WireGuard. WireGuard, in particular, offers high-speed connections and improved security, making it an excellent choice for torrenting. Mullvad also includes an automatic kill switch and DNS leak protection to safeguard your data.
Speed is a key consideration for torrenting, and Mullvad performs exceptionally well. Its global network ensures you can find a fast server close to your location, minimizing latency and maximizing download speeds. In speed tests, Mullvad consistently ranks among the fastest VPNs, making it a reliable choice for torrenting.
Mullvad is Easy-to-use
Mullvad’s apps are simple and easy to use, available on all major platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux. The service also supports router installations, allowing you to protect all devices on your network. Mullvad offers a straightforward pricing model with a flat monthly fee, making it an affordable option for torrenting.
One of Mullvad’s standout features is its commitment to privacy. The service accepts anonymous payments, including cash, and does not store any personal information. This makes Mullvad an excellent choice for users who prioritize privacy and anonymity.
8. IPVanish
IPVanish is a popular VPN known for its fast speeds and strong security features. With over 2,000 servers in 75+ countries, IPVanish offers extensive coverage and supports P2P traffic on all its servers. The service’s no-logs policy ensures your online activities remain private.
IPVanish uses AES-256 encryption and supports various security protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard. The service also includes an automatic kill switch and DNS leak protection to safeguard your data. IPVanish’s Scramble feature helps bypass VPN blocks and obfuscates your traffic, making it harder for your ISP to detect that you’re using a VPN.
Speed is crucial for torrenting, and IPVanish performs well in this area. Its global network ensures you can find a fast server close to your location, minimizing latency and maximizing download speeds. In speed tests, IPVanish consistently provides fast download and upload speeds, making it ideal for large file transfers.
Connect with Unlimited Number of Devices with Single Subscription
One of IPVanish’s unique features is its ability to connect an unlimited number of devices with a single subscription. This makes it an excellent choice for families or individuals with multiple devices. IPVanish’s apps are intuitive and easy to use, available on all major platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, and routers.
IPVanish also includes a split tunneling feature, which allows you to choose which apps use the VPN connection and which use your regular internet connection. This can be useful for torrenting, as you can route your torrent client through the VPN while using your regular connection for other activities.
IPVanish offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to test the service risk-free. Its performance, security features, and ability to connect multiple devices make it a strong contender for torrenting.
9. ProtonVPN
ProtonVPN is a privacy-focused VPN service developed by the creators of ProtonMail, a secure email service. With a strong emphasis on security and privacy, ProtonVPN is an excellent choice for torrenting. The service has over 1,500 servers in 63 countries and supports P2P traffic on many of its servers.
ProtonVPN uses AES-256 encryption and supports various security protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard. The service has a strict no-logs policy and is based in Switzerland, known for its strong privacy laws. ProtonVPN also includes an automatic kill switch and DNS leak protection to safeguard your data.
Speed is an important factor for torrenting, and ProtonVPN delivers good performance. Its global network ensures you can find a fast server close to your location, minimizing latency and maximizing download speeds. In speed tests, ProtonVPN provides reliable and fast connections, making it suitable for large file transfers.
ProtonVPN Secure Core Architecture
One of ProtonVPN’s standout features is its Secure Core architecture, which routes your traffic through multiple servers in privacy-friendly countries before it exits the network. This adds an extra layer of security and helps protect against network-based attacks. ProtonVPN also offers a Tor over VPN feature, allowing you to route your traffic through the Tor network while connected to the VPN.
ProtonVPN’s apps are user-friendly and available on all major platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, and routers. The service offers both free and paid plans, with the paid plans providing access to additional features and faster speeds. ProtonVPN also includes a 30-day money-back guarantee, giving you plenty of time to evaluate its features.
10. Windscribe
Windscribe is a versatile VPN service that offers a range of features suitable for torrenting. With over 600 servers in 63 countries, Windscribe provides good coverage and supports P2P traffic on most of its servers. The service’s no-logs policy ensures your online activities remain private.
Windscribe uses AES-256 encryption and supports various security protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard. The service also includes an automatic kill switch and DNS leak protection to safeguard your data. Windscribe’s R.O.B.E.R.T. feature blocks ads, trackers, and malware, enhancing your security while torrenting.
Speed is a critical factor for torrenting, and Windscribe delivers good performance. Its global network ensures you can find a fast server close to your location, minimizing latency and maximizing download speeds. In speed tests, Windscribe consistently provides reliable and fast connections, making it suitable for large file transfers.
One of Windscribe’s standout features is its generous free plan, which offers 10GB of data per month and access to servers in 10 countries. While the free plan has some limitations, it’s a great option for occasional torrenting. Windscribe’s paid plans offer unlimited data and access to all servers, providing a more comprehensive solution for regular torrent users.
Windscribe Apps
Windscribe’s apps are intuitive and easy to use, available on all major platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, and routers. The service also supports browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Opera, adding an extra layer of security to your browsing activities.
Windscribe’s unique features, such as its customizable privacy settings and flexible pricing plans, make it a strong contender for torrenting. The service also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to test its features risk-free.
Helpful Questions Answered about VPNs for Torrenting
1. Why do I need a VPN for torrenting?
A VPN protects your privacy by masking your IP address and encrypting your internet traffic. This prevents your ISP, government, and malicious actors from tracking your online activities, including torrenting. It also helps you bypass geo-restrictions and potential ISP throttling.
2. Are these VPNs legal to use for torrenting?
Yes, using a VPN for torrenting is legal in most countries. However, downloading copyrighted content without permission is illegal. Always ensure you are torrenting legally.
3. Which VPN is the fastest for torrenting?
ExpressVPN and NordVPN are known for their high speeds, making them ideal for torrenting. Both use advanced protocols like Lightway (ExpressVPN) and NordLynx (NordVPN) to deliver fast and secure connections.
4. Do these VPNs keep logs of my activities?
No, all the VPNs mentioned (NordVPN, ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, Surfshark, PIA, Mullvad, IPVanish, ProtonVPN, and Windscribe) have strict no-logs policies. This means they do not record your browsing activities, ensuring your privacy.
5. Which VPN is the most affordable for torrenting?
Surfshark offers one of the most affordable plans, especially considering it allows unlimited simultaneous connections. PIA and Windscribe also offer budget-friendly options with robust features.
6. Can I use these VPNs on multiple devices?
Yes, most of these VPNs support multiple simultaneous connections. Surfshark allows unlimited devices, while others like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and CyberGhost allow between 6 to 10 devices.
7. Do these VPNs work on all platforms?
Yes, these VPNs offer apps for major platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux. They also support routers, which allows you to protect all devices on your network.
8. What is a kill switch, and do these VPNs have it?
A kill switch is a security feature that disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops, preventing your real IP address from being exposed. All the VPNs mentioned in the article include a kill switch.
9. How does split tunneling help with torrenting?
Split tunneling allows you to route some of your internet traffic through the VPN while letting other traffic use your regular connection. This can be useful for torrenting as you can ensure your torrent client uses the VPN while other apps maintain faster speeds on your local connection.
10. Which VPN offers the longest money-back guarantee?
CyberGhost offers a 45-day money-back guarantee, which is the longest among the VPNs mentioned. Most others, including NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Surfshark, and IPVanish, offer a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Rebecca@articlesbase.com