PrivateVPN Review 2025

In this PrivateVPN review, I carefully tested its speed, security features, streaming performance, and overall value to see whether it competes with the best VPNs of 2025.

PrivateVPN is a small but popular VPN provider with a reputation for strong security, reliable streaming access, and affordable pricing. Based in Sweden, it’s strict no-logs policy ensures all your online activities remain private and secure.

PrivateVPN has servers in over 63 countries, allowing access to streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. Customizable encryption enables users to select between 128-bit and 256-bit AES encryption. It also includes advanced privacy tools, making it a reliable VPN for avoiding ISP tracking, government surveillance, and censorship. It also makes PrivateVPN ideal for bypassing workplace blocks while avoiding VPN detection.

It supports torrenting and P2P sharing throughout its server network, but it’s not the fastest VPN I’ve tested. That said, the app lets you optimize your connection to improve speeds for secure file downloads. It also works to make secure voice calls on Zoom and WhatsApp.

PrivateVPN review key data

* Average speed over multiple global locations based across multiple speed tests per day.

PrivateVPN review pros and cons

If you’re looking for a VPN that balances affordability, strong security, and reliable streaming access, PrivateVPN is a solid option. Below, I’ve summarized the pros and cons based on my in-depth testing.

Do I recommend PrivateVPN?

Yes, I recommend PrivateVPN for users who want an affordable Sweden-based VPN that offers strong privacy, reliable streaming, and secure torrenting. My tests showed that it is an easy-to-use VPN that supports up to 10 simultaneous connections. This makes it a solid choice for families or individuals who need to protect multiple devices.

PrivateVPN’s Netflix unblocking capability ensures you can stream your favorite shows from anywhere. Its Stealth VPN feature helps bypass Deep Packet Inspection (DPI), making it effective in restrictive regions or networks that try to block VPN use.

Port forwarding makes it easier to seed torrents and maintain a good leech-to-seed ratio. The PrivateVPN kill switch provides leak protection, ensuring your IP address is not exposed if your VPN connection drops unexpectedly. This makes it reliable for bypassing censorship or making private video calls on platforms like Skype or Viber.

The biggest downside? PrivateVPN isn’t the fastest. That said, I still found it a competent VPN for streaming, gaming, and secure browsing because I have fast baseline internet speeds.

Overall, PrivateVPN is a budget-friendly VPN with strong security, great streaming capabilities, and solid privacy tools. It lacks some advanced features found in top-of-the-range VPNs, but it is hugely impressive at this price point, particularly for users who need port forwarding.

Features

PrivateVPN comes with all the features you need to gain robust online security, privacy, and superb usability. The VPN has apps for all popular platforms, with a choice of protocols, customizable encryption, and reliable servers for bypassing restrictions. Plus, you can install and use the VPN on up to 10 devices simultaneously.

PrivateVPN caters to power users and privacy-conscious families. Below, I’ve broken down all of its key features so you can decide whether it has what you need.

Core VPN features

PrivateVPN encrypts your internet traffic and reliably hides your home IP address. This gives you privacy while browsing and keeps you safe against hackers when torrenting. It supports multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN and L2TP/IPsec. These are secure tunneling protocols known to give users robust security against eavesdroppers and hackers.

The VPN app is available on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. The intuitive interface gives you access to Simple mode (basic controls) and Advanced mode (settings). PrivateVPN’s Simple mode gives you a large Connect/Disconnect button to launch the connection. The Advanced mode allows you to select a VPN protocol, encryption level, and other settings. Additionally, PrivateVPN displays ping times next to server locations, helping you choose the fastest available option.

PrivateVPN’s server network is smaller than that of most of its leading competitors, with approximately 200 servers in 63 countries. At first glance, this may seem substantially less capable than leading competitors. However, the network includes dedicated IP servers that are assigned to users for each session. This helps avoid congestion and is effective at unblocking geo-restricted content.

Advanced security & privacy features

PrivateVPN prioritizes security and privacy for its users, which is not surprising considering it was launched by hacktivists who support consumer rights to privacy and torrenting. The service enforces a strict no-logs policy, ensuring that user activity is never tracked or stored. Connection Guard offers IPv6 and DNS leak protection, and the kill switch feature automatically disconnects internet access if the VPN connection drops, preventing accidental data exposure.

For users looking to bypass VPN detection and DPI firewalls, PrivateVPN includes Stealth VPN mode, which disguises VPN traffic as regular HTTPS traffic. This allows users to access restricted content in heavily censored regions or on networks that attempt to block VPN usage. Additionally, Application Guard lets users designate specific apps to be automatically disconnected when the VPN is turned off, further enhancing security.

PrivateVPN supports port forwarding, making it a strong option for torrenting and P2P file sharing. Users can boost their torrenting speeds while maintaining privacy by enabling port forwarding in the settings. The VPN also accepts Bitcoin payments, allowing users to subscribe anonymously.

PureVPN price and plans

PrivateVPN is one of the best cheap VPNs I’ve ever tested. It offers various subscription plans, each with the same features, but with bigger discounts for users who commit for a longer period.

Whether you need a VPN for a short work trip, a vacation, or long-term privacy and security, PrivateVPN’s pricing is affordable compared to most leading competitors. Below, I’ve outlined the different plans and pricing details so you can compare PrivateVPN to other services directly.

Price pricing breakdown

PrivateVPN keeps its pricing simple, offering three main subscription plans:

The long-term plans are an easy way to save even more cash. The PrivateVPN $2 per month subscription is a deal that many people will jump at, especially if their primary need is a secure VPN for remote work, streaming, or torrenting.

Subscription add-ons

PrivateVPN does not charge extra for features like port forwarding. Instead, it includes all available features in all of its plans. This makes the pricing structure easy to understand.

The potential downside? PrivateVPN does not let you bolt on extra features and services that you get with some leading competitors. For example, you can’t get PrivateVPN as part of a security suite with a password manager, secure cloud storage, a cloud-based browser, antivirus, or any other advanced features.

If you want to shop around for a service that promises even better value for money by offering these types of extras, you’ll need to consider the multi-service plans offered by competitors like NordVPN and Surfshark.

Discounts

If you want to buy PrivateVPN with a discount, you’re in luck. By following the link in this review, you will enable an automatic coupon code that reduces the cost of a three-year subscription. This makes the three-year plan one of the best VPN deals available through our website.

PrivateVPN offers discounts during holidays and other discount seasons, like Black Friday. We work hard to get the best possible offers for our readers. Check back periodically to see if a better deal is available through our link.

Payment methods & refunds

PrivateVPN accepts multiple payment options, including:

• Credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, JCB, Discover, Diners Club International).
• PayPal
• Bitcoin

PrivateVPN has no free trial, but you do get a refund promise that lets you test the VPN risk-free. The PrivateVPN money-back guarantee lasts for 30 days, and you can use the VPN as much as you want during this time.

Testing the money-back guarantee

Some reviewers claim the PrivateVPN refund is only available if you don’t use the VPN. However, I tested the money-back process and found this claim to be false. I was able to use the money-back guarantee to test the VPN without limitations.

To evaluate the refund policy, I requested a refund after purchasing a 1-month subscription. The refund process was extremely straightforward, as explained by the live chat agent:

I proceed by following these steps exactly. I started by asking the live chat window for my refund. The agent asked me for the exact reason for canceling. The agent then forwarded me to another representative whose job was to process refund requests.

The billing team followed up and processed my refund. As promised, I received an email saying my refund was underway. I received the money in my account within five working days, which is great. Bear in mind that the live chat support told me the refund might take between 5 and 10 days, so you may have to wait slightly longer.

Does PrivateVPN offer value for money?

PrivateVPN is affordable and offers incredible value for users who opt for long-term plans. Its three-year subscription is one of the best cheap VPN deals on the market, offering robust security, port forwarding, and streaming access at an incredibly low cost.

While not as cheap as the three-year plan, the monthly cost is also competitive. This makes PrivateVPN a decent choice for users going on vacation or needing a VPN for a work trip. If you need a budget-friendly VPN with strong privacy features, I can confidently recommend PrivateVPN.

Speed – Is PrivateVPN Fast?

Speed is always a crucial factor when testing VPNs. I understand that, like me, most users want a service that protects their privacy while ensuring smooth access to streaming platforms, online gaming, and torrenting. A reliable VPN should maintain high speeds without causing significant slowdowns. Unfortunately, there are too many VPNs that slow down your internet speeds, which can be a problem if you already have slow internet. So, how does PrivateVPN perform?

PrivateVPN’s network is built from self-owned bare-metal servers, with only a handful of IPs provided through DNS routing to another location, also known as “virtual server locations”.

Unfortunately, despite its excellent network architecture, PrivateVPN was not the best in terms of raw speed. This may put some users off purchasing a subscription. However, as you will see below, PrivateVPN still offers fast enough speeds for most online activities, so this is not necessarily a deal breaker.

Testing PrivateVPN’s speed

To assess speed performance in my PrivateVPN review, I conducted a series of speed tests across multiple locations. The tests were carried out at different times of the day—morning, afternoon, and evening—to ensure accuracy and account for network congestion.

The test server I used was based in Manchester, UK, running on a Windows Virtual Machine. I used the app version of Speedtest by Ookla to measure download speeds with and without the VPN. My baseline internet speed without the VPN was 240 Mbps.

Below, you’ll find my PrivateVPN speed test results:

Speed test results

Speed analysis

PrivateVPN’s performance varies depending on the location you choose. I experienced slower speeds when using servers that were further away. However, the servers in Hong Kong still gave me speeds comparable to those in New York, which impressed me. Overall, I found that PrivateVPN maintained decent speeds for HD streaming, torrenting, and browsing.

Now the important point: PrivateVPN supports manual WireGuard setup, which should improve your speed. There is no native WireGuard support in the app, so you need to set it up manually using a third-party WireGuard client.

I decided to test the WireGuard connection to see how it differs from the OpenVPN connection in the app. The results were worlds apart. WireGuard gave me a connection speed of 156.60 Mbps, which puts PrivateVPN in range with some of the fastest VPNs on the market.

Thus, if you want to pay less for a fast VPN, I strongly advise taking the extra minute to install and set up WireGuard (it only takes 2 minutes). 

Device compatibility (VPN apps)

PrivateVPN offers dedicated apps for major platforms, ensuring seamless VPN protection across various devices. It supports a range of VPN-compatible routers, allowing users to protect all network-connected devices at once. Here is a list of routers that are compatible with PrivateVPN.

• Asus RT
• Synology
• DD-WRT
• Tomato
• Linksys
• QNAP
• pfSense

Setup guides on the PrivateVPN website help you configure the VPN on these devices.

PrivateVPN lacks some advanced features found in larger VPNs, but it still delivers strong security and privacy for most users. Below, I’ve outlined its compatibility, features, and platform-specific limitations to help you better understand what you get in each VPN app.

Platform-specific details

Curious about which features are included in PrivateVPN’s apps? Below, I’ve included the features included in each VPN app, so you can decide whether it meets your needs.

Windows

Supported Versions: Windows 7, 8, 8.1, and 10+

macOS

Supported Versions: macOS 10.12+

Android

Supported Versions: Android 4.0+

iOS

Supported Versions: iOS 10.0+

Linux

PrivateVPN for Linux requires manual setup. There is no GUI app, so you have to set up the VPN on Linux using the command line. PrivateVPN offers setup guides for various distros (Debian, Ubuntu, Mint, Red Hat, Arch, Manjaro, CentOS). This makes the process pretty straightforward.

My recommendation is to set up WireGuard for Linux using the CLI and the WireGuard configs available in the Private VPN member’s area. This will give you faster speeds. Note: There is no WireGuard app with a GUI for Linux, so you will need to set it up manually using the CLI, as explained on the official WireGuard website.

Other supported devices

• Kodi: PrivateVPN can be configured for secure streaming.
• Amazon Fire OS: Works with Fire Stick and Fire TV with a custom app available from the official Amazon app store.
• Android TV: You can install the Android app via the modified Google Play Store for Android TV – no need for sideloading!

Browser extensions

PrivateVPN offers a browser extension for Google Chrome, allowing users to change their location within the browser without affecting their other internet traffic. This is useful for tasks like online shopping, price comparisons, or bypassing region-based restrictions without having to run the VPN on the entire device.

However, it’s important to note that this is not a full VPN extension. Unlike a complete VPN client, it only protects browser traffic and lacks advanced features like server switching, privacy controls, or encryption outside of Chrome.

Although the Chrome extension provides basic location spoofing, those looking for a fully-featured VPN experience should connect through the desktop or mobile app. The main VPN app will provide robust encryption, ensuring higher privacy levels.

VPN features missing across all platforms

Although PrivateVPN delivers strong security and usability, it does lack some advanced features available with larger VPN providers. If you want or need any of the features listed below, you may prefer to opt for an alternative VPN, such as NordVPN or Surfshark.

• No WireGuard support in apps; requires manual setup.
• No split-tunneling to select which apps use the VPN.
• No Smart DNS for streaming on unsupported devices.
• No multi-hop (Double VPN) feature.
• No automatic Wi-Fi protection.
• No built-in ad blocker or anti-malware tools.

Ease of use

I tested PrivateVPN on Windows, iOS, and Android to see how it performs. I was happy to find that the apps worked seamlessly across all my devices. The apps have a homogeneous aesthetic and generally offer the same features, which makes using the VPN easy across different operating systems.

Installing PrivateVPN was simple on all my devices. Downloading the apps was quick, and they automatically installed all the necessary modules. This makes it accessible even to beginners.

PrivateVPN for Windows

The Windows app isn’t the best-looking I have ever used. However, it is simple and functional. It provides a clean interface that makes it easy to switch between the basic VPN functions and the settings menu (advanced view). You can easily switch between the views depending on your needs. I keep it on advanced so I can see which port is open each session.

Downloading and installing the PrivateVPN Windows client takes only a minute, and the installation wizard handles everything, including setting up the necessary TAP adapter for virtual routing. The app highlights your current location and features a large On/Off button for connecting and disconnecting.

The Advanced view also shows you the Ping for all available servers, which helps you pick a less congested location. And if you find a server you like (because it works for streaming, for example), you can favorite it by clicking the star.

Window features & functionality

PrivateVPN’s Windows app allows you to manually select your VPN protocol and encryption strength within the app. It supports OpenVPN with customizable encryption and the ability to switch to L2TP or PPTP. PPTP has been deprecated and is no longer secure, so I recommend avoiding it for any use cases that require privacy and sticking to OpenVPN instead.

For privacy-conscious users, Connection Guard is a standout feature. It combines multiple privacy tools, including IPv6 and DNS leak protection, as well as both system-wide and application-level kill switches. I could even set the app to automatically close specific apps, such as a torrent client if the VPN connection drops. This is a nice extra layer of protection for users with sensitive use cases.

Stealth VPN is a useful obfuscation feature that makes VPN traffic appear to be regular HTTPS traffic bound for a website.

You can choose to connect over port 443 or 22, which helps bypass VPN blocks on restrictive networks (such as at work) or firewalls and Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) in countries with overreaching censorship. This feature is especially useful for users in regions where VPNs are blocked, such as the UAE or China.

The app warned me that my data would be exposed during a server switch. This might seem like a small thing, but it helps to remind users that they need to pause their torrents or other sensitive tasks during reconnections, which ensures privacy at all times.

Port forwarding – at no extra cost!

My favorite feature of PrivateVPN is its port forwarding option. Instead of letting users manually configure a port, the VPN randomly assigns a new port each session. While this ensures the feature is always enabled, it means you have to change the port in your torrent client each session. This can be a touch frustrating, but is easily forgiven considering that you are getting a VPN with port forwarding for just $2 per month.

The only real drawback is that you can’t disable the port forwarding feature. So, if having a port open during your VPN session worries you, you may want to block this port in your router. This is pretty inconvenient, so if you have a good reason for not wanting any ports open, you may prefer to shop elsewhere.

Windows performance & testing

As always, I tested PrivateVPN’s kill switch to check whether it works at the system level. The VPN immediately blocked all internet access when the VPN connection dropped due to intermittent Wi-Fi (I tested this by walking out of range of my Wi-Fi and waiting for the VPN connection to drop). I then walked back in range of my wi-fi and waited for my internet to reconnect. The VPN app did not let me use the internet until I had reconnected to the VPN.

Next, I simulated a software crash while using a page refresher tool (Auto Refresh Plus) to check my IP address every 0.4 seconds. Unfortunately, the VPN leaked my IP address. This means that the Windows PrivateVPN kill switch is app-based, not system-level.

During my research for this review, I noticed some users claiming that when they used some servers (such as the Los Angeles server) they got an IP address in the wrong location (such as Sweden instead of L.A.) I tried to replicate the problem, but with no success. The VPN always worked to spoof my IP address to the country or city I required, without fail.

Room for improvement

Overall, I was extremely pleased with the performance I got from PrivateVPN. The VPN has quite a varied feature set for the price point, and it offers superb reliability, whether you need a VPN for privacy or accessibility.

That said, a few key features are missing in the Windows app that would enhance usability, Many of which I mentioned above.

Did PrivateVPN for Windows work as advertised?

Generally, the VPN performed well. PrivateVPN’s Windows app delivered strong encryption, leak protection, and reliable connections.

My only real complaints are the lack of WireGuard in the app and split tunneling, which put it behind some competitors. Other than this, however, my experience was solid. It seems fair to say that, despite the app-based kill switch and lack of split tunneling, many torrent enthusiasts may gravitate towards this service due to its port forwarding capabilities.

PrivateVPN for Android

Installing PrivateVPN on Android is quick and hassle-free. The app is available directly from the Google Play Store, and installation only requires a few taps. Like the desktop version, the interface is minimalistic, offering a basic layout with essential connection controls. This makes it a decent VPN for beginners who want a straightforward and reliable VPN experience.

The Quick Connect button provides fast access to the nearest server, and navigating between available servers is easy. The server list includes access to all locations as well as dedicated IP addresses. However, it lacks additional sorting options, such as servers listed for torrenting or streaming. Instead, all servers can be used for all use cases, which some users may prefer.

Android features & functionality

The first thing I noticed is that the Android VPN app is more feature-rich than its iOS counterpart. The Android version offers a kill switch (although it did not work, more on this later), OpenVPN support, IPv6 leak protection, and Stealth VPN to connect on restrictive networks and hide VPN use in countries where it is frowned upon. The kill switch is especially useful for users with older Android devices that don’t have always-on VPN functionality.

Basic Android app

PrivateVPN for Android is pretty basic when compared to leading competitors. Aside from changing the tunneling protocol, switching ports, and enabling Stealth VPN, there isn’t much else to see.

It lacks Application Guard, a feature available on the Windows version, and does not support additional protocols beyond OpenVPN TCP and UDP. Users who want faster speeds can opt to use the third-party WireGuard client for Android, which you can download from the Play Store.

Those wondering about port forwarding: I was unable to see which port was open when using regular servers (there is no advanced view on Android, where you can find the open port in the desktop app). This means you must use a dedicated IP, and then set any port other than 80, 21, and 25 in your torrent application.

The support agent told me that I can use the dedicated IP servers to access port forwarding on Android, iOS, and Linux.

Android performance & testing

I decided to test the built-in kill switch. In my tests, this function was unreliable. I tested it by:

1. Cutting my Wi-Fi off for a moment in my Android settings. (This caused the VPN to disconnect, but did not enable the kill switch)
2. Walking out of range of my router to interrupt the VPN connection and then walking back to allow my internet to resume. (This caused the VPN connection to drop but again did not cut off my internet).
3. I also tested the kill switch by forcing the app to stop in my Android settings. Again, this did not cut off my internet.

With all three kill switch tests failing, I recommend using the Always-On VPN feature that comes with Android instead. This feature is much more reliable because it always blocks your internet unless the VPN is connected.

The live chat agent corroborated my findings (he told me they were working on fixing it, but could not tell me how long it had been broken or when it would be fixed). This strikes me as a pretty severe problem. Many Android users will turn the kill switch on and assume they are protected: They aren’t.

I also tested for IP leaks and DNS leaks. Thankfully, this test was more successful. I was happy to find that the PrivateVPN tunnel was reliable for privacy purposes with no IP, DNS, or WebRTC leaks. This ensures PrivateVPN is reliable for bypassing blocks at work or censorship in countries with overreaching blocks.

Did PrivateVPN for Android work as advertised?

In my tests, the VPN mainly worked as advertised except for the kill switch, which was a complete dud.  I recommend using the native Android kill switch instead (Always-on VPN).

You also get StealthVPN in the mobile apps. This makes the PrivateVPN Android VPN app a decent choice for people trying to connect on restrictive networks (or in countries that block VPNs).

Finally, I would prefer to see an auto-connect feature added to this VPN for added protection on public Wi-Fi networks. That may be a deal breaker for users who often switch between networks while using public Wi-Fi.

Overall user experience

PrivateVPN delivers a functional but somewhat limited experience on Windows and Android, prioritizing privacy and security but lacking several modern features. The Windows app provides customizable encryption, Stealth VPN, and Connection Guard, making it a strong choice for users who want more control over security settings. It also has a reliable kill switch that performed well under testing.

On Android, however, the experience is more limited, missing features such as split tunneling, WireGuard support, and auto-connect for untrusted networks. Worse, the kill switch failed during testing, which is a major concern for privacy-conscious users. While no leaks were detected, and Stealth VPN worked as expected, the app feels basic compared to competitors. For this reason, users who specifically want a VPN for Android may decide an alternative like NordVPN or Surfshark is a safer bet.

Does PrivateVPN Work in China?

PrivateVPN does not reliably work in China, despite having a Stealth VPN mode designed to bypass VPN blocks. PrivateVPN’s live chat agents claim it should work, but the website itself is blocked in China, so you cannot purchase or download the VPN once inside the country.

For users traveling to China, it is strongly recommended to download and set up PrivateVPN before arrival. Once in China, you can attempt to connect using OpenVPN protocols with Stealth mode enabled. However, real-world reports indicate that PrivateVPN frequently fails to connect from behind the Great Firewall.

For this reason, I would generally recommend an alternate VPN for users living in or visiting China. If you need a VPN that consistently works in China, alternatives like NordVPN, Surfshark, or ExpressVPN are more reliable. These VPNs offer more robust obfuscation methods, as well as dedicated servers for bypassing censorship.

Server network

PrivateVPN has a decent global reach for its price point. However, it has a smaller server network compared to the very best VPNs on the market. Subscribers get access to over 200 servers in 63 countries, ensuring decent geographic coverage for bypassing region locks and censorship.

Despite this limitation, I found no noticeable congestion or slowdowns during testing. The servers maintained decent speeds at various times of day, with no significant fluctuations in performance. This reveals that the VPN’s self-owned infrastructure can cope with the demands of its users.

Server metrics

• Server count: 200+ servers across 63 countries.
• Geographic coverage: PrivateVPN has servers in North America, Europe, Asia, South America, Africa, and Australia, covering a good mix of locations. However, it has a limited presence in South America, the Middle East, and Africa. Users who need IPs in those regions may prefer a larger network, such as CyberGhost or ExpressVPN.
• Dedicated IP servers: 16 dedicated IPs are available in 15 countries. This is a rare and valuable feature that helps users access streaming services and other platforms without the risk of the server being blocked.
• P2P support: All servers allow torrenting by default. Port forwarding opens a random port each session, unless you use dedicated IP servers, which open all ports except ports 21, 25, and 80.
• Obfuscation: Stealth VPN mode can bypass firewalls and censorship.
• Virtual servers: Only seven virtual servers exist (in Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Bangalore, Mexico City, Panama City, and Lima), meaning most of PrivateVPN’s servers are physically located in the locations indicated by their IP addresses. PrivateVPN clearly labels which servers are virtual.
• Self-owned servers: While most of its infrastructure is rented, PrivateVPN does own some of its servers, which improves security.
• Diskless servers: Not available. Unlike some competitors, PrivateVPN still uses traditional servers with storage. This is not as secure as diskless servers that can be erased remotely in an emergency.

Comparison with competitors

US server locations

PrivateVPN operates servers in 12 US cities. This makes it a strong option for accessing blackout sports games or region-locked streaming services. It’s suitable for accessing regional gambling sites that are blocked in some states.

Network limitations

PrivateVPN’s small server network could, in theory, lead to congestion. This could require you to switch servers during peak times. In practice, however, I experienced consistent speeds with no major slowdowns, even when testing at different times of day. That said, PrivateVPN is not as fast as its competitors when using its native apps.

The lack of specialized streaming or gaming servers makes it harder to find a server that is best for your streaming service. Some competitors like PureVPN and CyberGhost label servers for specific use cases. These can help beginners find the servers they need. If this appeals to you, an alternative VPN might suit you better.

Streaming and unblocking

Private is a reliable VPN for unblocking major streaming services, allowing users to access geo-restricted content from multiple regions. While it lacks the extensive server network of some competitors, it delivers high-speed streaming and dedicated IP support for improved reliability. Below, I have detailed its streaming capabilities and provided test results for accessing various international platforms.

Overview

PrivateVPN works with most major streaming services, maintaining consistent speeds for HD and 4K streaming. While it lacks Smart DNS or split tunneling features, its Stealth VPN helps bypass geo-blocks effectively. Users may need to switch servers or use dedicated IPs to ensure uninterrupted access.

Streaming service compatibility

Netflix

PrivateVPN provides reliable access to a wide variety of Netflix libraries. In our tests, it worked to stream Netflix US, UK, Australia, Canada, and Japan. According to the VPN, it also works to stream around 15 other regions.

PrivateVPN recommends using Dedicated IPs for streaming to improve accessibility and stability when accessing international catalogs. Here is what the agent told me:

The good news is that during my tests, Netflix streaming was smooth with minimal buffering in all the locations I tested. Here is a table showing PrivateVPN’s Netflix compatibility according to our tests:

International streaming platforms

To verify its global streaming capabilities, I tested PrivateVPN with various free-to-air TV platforms from around the globe.

If you want a VPN to access a specific streaming platform or TV stream, PrivateVPN should be a reliable choice. However, it is still advisable to test it using the 30-day trial period.

• Germany: I was able to watch Das Erste on ARD Mediathek using a German server.
• France: Connected to a Paris server and watched France.tv (France 2) without issues.
• Brazil: Streamed GloboPlay Brazil’s free-tier channels using the São Paulo server. Worked without buffering.
• Canada: Connected to the Toronto server and was able to stream live TV and on-demand episodes (Son of a Critch).
• Australia: I tested all Australian servers, but I was not able to stream 10 Play or 7Plus. If you need a VPN to watch Australian TV, I would recommend a competitor like NordVPN.

Does PrivateVPN allow torrenting?

Yes. PrivateVPN was launched by hacktivists who built the VPN to support consumer rights to privacy and to torrent safely. This has remained a core selling point of the VPN ever since, which is why it’s one of the few VPNs that support port forwarding. This feature makes PrivateVPN a reliable option for users who want optimal performance for file sharing or seeding.

Just bear in mind that when using the regular servers you will only get 1 port open each session, so you have to set this in your torrent client each time. Using a dedicated IP gives you the freedom to set and forget a port in your BitTorrent client, because the dedicated IP servers let you forward any port (apart from 21, 25, and 80).

Related: A guide to torrenting VPNs

Is PrivateVPN Safe?

PrivateVPN is a privacy-focused VPN provider that has a strict no-logging policy. It offers strong encryption, a reliable assortment of VPN security features, and a Stealth VPN protocol that makes the VPN accessible to users in countries with VPN blocks.

The VPN is based in Sweden, which, although a member of the 14 EYES surveillance alliance, is generally a decent EU location for a VPN to be based due to the lack of mandatory data retention directives that apply to VPNs. This allows the VPN to enforce a no-logs policy without legal considerations.

The only real drawback, when compared to some of the top VPNs on the market, is that PrivateVPN has not undergone any publicly disclosed third-party security audits. This means you have to take the VPN at its word without evidence. This may be enough to deter users with an elevated threat model from using this service.

The VPN has a solid reputation without any blemishes. PrivateVPN has never had any incidents of user activities being exposed during investigations. And none of its users have complained about having their activities uncovered after using PrivateVPN to gain online privacy.

I outlined PrivateVPN’s logging policy, encryption methods, and any known controversies below.

IP Leak tests

To ensure that PrivateVPN works as advertised to provide privacy for its users, I tested the VPN for IP leaks, DNS leaks, and WebRTC leaks. I tested for leaks on Windows and Android to check that the VPN was effective on both devices. I detected no leaks on either device when using the OpenVPN protocol.

However, please bear in mind that you could suffer DNS leaks when using the PPTP protocol. This is a known issue when using this protocol, which is why we generally recommend avoiding it. (I would prefer PrivateVPN to remove this protocol altogether because including PPTP inevitably raises eyebrows for people in the know about VPN security.)

Logging Policy

PrivateVPN follows a strict no-logs policy. It does not store browsing activity, browsing histories, connection timestamps, traffic destinations, DNS queries, or user IP addresses. Below, you can see what the policy says:

I went over the policy with a fine tooth comb and found a few minimal grey areas that are worth mentioning:

The VPN admits that it uses third-party processors for payments, such as PayPal, Apple Pay, or Stripe, which is standard practice. However, it also clearly states that those payment processors have access to “basic billing information for payment processing and refund requests, such as date of purchase, payer’s IP address, zip code, full name, and credit card information.”

Usually, I wouldn’t consider this a grey area. However, PrivateVPN admits that it may access the “payer’s IP address” when “compiling sales statistics for accounting purposes,” which is a little vague. How long does it store this IP address? Is it anonymized to ensure user privacy? And is it purged once it has been processed for accounting purposes? These clarifications would be useful.

Third-party data sharing

Regarding sharing user data with third parties, the policy states:

 “We will not disclose your personal data to any third party, except where (i) it has been agreed between PrivateVPN and you, (ii) it is necessary within the scope of our contract, (iii) it is necessary in order to fulfill a statutory obligation, comply with a decision of a public authority or court of law, or (iv) in cases where we engage an external service provider or business partner who performs services on our behalf.”

This is standard apart from “external service provider or business partner” which feels a touch ambiguous. I would prefer the policy to disclose which business partners and why, explicitly. At the moment, the policy does not definitively rule out third parties such as marketing firms, which presumably is not what is meant. Clarification would solve this.

Despite these minor quibbles, it seems fair to say that PrivateVPN is running a tight ship. The VPN stores no data relating to VPN use. Users are never at risk of correlation attacks. Thus, even if PrivateVPN shared minimal sales-related data with a third party, doing so would not compromise user privacy.

Encryption protocols

PrivateVPN supports several VPN protocols, allowing users to choose their preferred balance of security and performance:

• AES-256 encryption: Available with OpenVPN (UDP/TCP) and IPsec, providing robust data security.
• WireGuard: Not natively supported, but can be configured manually. The VPN provides setup guides and config files to make this as simple as possible.
• PPTP: This protocol is insecure and should not be used unless you only need basic location spoofing without encryption.
• Stealth VPN: An obfuscated OpenVPN protocol designed to evade deep packet inspection.

While PrivateVPN offers strong encryption, the absence of native WireGuard support is a disappointment. Additionally, the inclusion of PPTP is a red flag, as it is outdated and vulnerable to security exploits.

Controversies

I checked the press carefully and found no evidence of past controversies. PrivateVPN has a clean track record with no major security breaches or data leaks reported.

The only minor concerns worth mentioning are:

• Lack of audits: PrivateVPN has never undergone an independent security audit. Its no-logs claims are unverified, and its apps might have vulnerabilities that have not been discovered yet.
• Sweden jurisdiction: Sweden is part of 14 Eyes. However, Sweden does not subject VPNs to mandatory data retention laws. This makes Sweden a safer EU country than most others for a VPN to be based. That said, some privacy advocates (or users with an elevated threat model) may still consider Sweden a less-than-perfect jurisdiction.
• PPTP vulnerabilities: PPTP is a VPN tunneling protocol that was once popular. However, PPTP no longer provides reliable online privacy. It remains vulnerable to brute-force attacks, lacks modern encryption, and frequently suffers from DNS leaks.
• No diskless servers: Some market-leading VPNs have moved over to fully diskless servers. Servers run in RAM and can be erased by pulling the plug, which is useful if authorities raid a data center.

Customer support

PrivateVPN offers excellent customer support, especially for a VPN that costs just $2 per month. You can contact the VPN via 24/7 live chat on its website or drop them an email. Their support agents can use Google Translate to communicate in any language, which means that you can always get help regardless of your location.

PrivateVPN support staff can, with your permission, take remote control of your device to address problems.

My experience with PrivateVPN’s customer support

I tested PrivateVPN’s live chat and email support multiple times, and response times were always great. I found the agents to be polite, and they didn’t ask me to provide any personal information to start answering questions. That said, you have to give an email initially to launch the chat. I used a fake email address and it worked fine, so you can chat without linking the conversation to your account if you want to.

The support agents were always knowledgeable and could escalate technical questions to developers when needed. This is a significant advantage over VPNs that outsource their support staff. PrivateVPN staff seem well-trained and appear to answer questions themselves without needing to refer to a response manual.

My only real quibble is that the chat window sometimes flicked back to the home window during a conversation. Other than this,  however, the live chat experience was extremely solid. It even stores your previous discussions, which means you can go back and see what the agent said later.

What support options does PrivateVPN offer?

• 24/7 live chat: Response times are fast, and you can ask questions even if you don’t have a subscription.
• Email support: Generally more reliable than live chat. Complex queries can take a few hours, but responses were detailed and helpful.
• Knowledge base: Offers basic setup and troubleshooting guides. However, the documentation for some features lacks detail, and the knowledge base doesn’t match the completeness of some competitors.
• Remote assistance: PrivateVPN allows users to share their screen with a support agent via TeamViewer, which can be useful for resolving complicated technical issues. However, some more privacy-conscious users may feel uncomfortable doing this.

How could PrivateVPN improve its support?

I was hugely impressed with the support I received. The only real improvement needed would be to employ additional members to ensure each can focus on one user at a time. They could also improve some of the guides, which are sometimes a little vague in places. Finally, the apps could provide a bit more info about advanced features for beginners. Other than these small suggestions, the support was stellar.

PrivateVPN review conclusion

PrivateVPN is an impressive budget-friendly VPN that delivers solid security, reliable torrenting support, and surprisingly good customer service for the price point.

At just $2 per month, it’s hard to beat in terms of value, especially if you’re looking for a VPN with port forwarding. Compare it to PureVPN, for example. Pure costs $2.14 per month for a subscription – but requires you to pay another $1.49 per month to bolt on its port forwarding feature. This makes PrivateVPN far lighter on the pocket.

It isn’t the fastest VPN on the market, which may put some people off. But its dedicated IP system helps prevent server congestion. In my tests, it always kept my internet speed above 40 Mbps. This makes it suitable for data-intensive tasks, such as multiplayer gaming and 4K streaming.

PrivateVPN has a strict no-logs policy, P2P-friendly servers, and rock-solid streaming performance. The biggest letdown? Leading platforms have already blocked their Australian servers. When it came to watching BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Disney+, and Netflix, it proved to be a workhorse.

Drawbacks? The Android kill switch fails, making it a hazard. The Windows version only works at the app level rather than system-wide. The apps feel pretty outdated, and including PPTP (a deprecated and insecure protocol) seems unnecessary. Other than that, it is a decent budget VPN suitable for most home internet users. Definitely worth a test drive, with its 30-day money-back guarantee.

The best PrivateVPN alternatives

PrivateVPN is one of the best low-cost VPNs I have ever tested. If you want a faster VPN or a VPN that has more advanced features, I recommend these PrivateVPN alternatives:

• Surfshark: A sweet alternative if you need unlimited device connections and better speeds. Still very cheap!
• Proton VPN: Ideal for advanced users who require port forwarding with built-in WireGuard support rather than a manual setup.
• IPVanish: A solid pick if you want more US-based servers for unblocking blackout games or regional streaming services.

Read some of our PrivateVPN comparisons:

• PrivateVPN vs NordVPN
• PrivateVPN vs Surfshark
• PrivateVPN vs PIA
• PrivateVPN vs PureVPN