The market is filled with VPNs that claim to have strict and transparent no-logging policies when in reality, they store the information that is used to track users online. Unfortunately, no one can really tell if the no-log policy claim is either true or not; you just have to take the word for it. However, an independent audit of the zero-logs policy can make things work for any best no-log VPN in 2022.
The primary reason for using a VPN is to keep your online presence and information hidden. What good will a VPN be doing if it stores your online information? This is why it is crucial to always go for a VPN provider that offers a reliable no-log policy and has been tested for it.
We have done the hard work to help you save the trouble of finding the best zero-log VPN in 2022. Below, we have rounded up the 5 best no-log VPN providers that one can trust. They do keep the logs only to ensure the service runs smoothly but never compromise on user privacy.
Our top recommendation is ExpressVPN, which has proven to multiple auditing firms and users that it does not keep any user data. You can have peace of mind knowing your online privacy is safe and secure and you are not being tracked online. You can test the VPN yourself using its 30-day money-back guarantee.
Short on time? The best zero log VPN is…
- ExpressVPN is the most trustworthy zero-log VPN with top-notch encryption, strong security, an extensive server network, and ultra-fast speeds.
- Surfshark is our second choice for the best zero-log VPN. Surfshark doesn’t store data and offers high-end security features for online protection. You can protect UNLIMITED devices over one subscription!
- NordVPN is one of the best VPNs for online protection. It doesn’t log user data and has been successfully audited in the past. Additional perks? The speeds and unblocking abilities are top-notch!
- CyberGhost is a user-friendly VPN with a great capacity to help protect user data. CyberGhost makes the best no-logs VPN along with offering optimized servers for streaming.
- FastestVPN doesn’t log user data. The speeds are good enough for HD quality and comes with other advanced security features that help maintain online privacy.
Why do you need a zero log VPN?
If you are conscious about your online privacy and want to stay anonymous on the internet, a no-logs VPN is essential to have. You must ensure that ISP, government, or hackers cannot get their hands on your online data.
Below are the primary reasons why you need a zero-log VPN;
- Keep your online activities hidden from the ISP – ISPs collect your online information and store it for a set time period. They may also be obliged to share that information with the government or other third parties, which is a violation of privacy.
- Enhanced online security – The Internet is not a safe place. It is filled with hackers and snoopers. With online threats increasing rapidly, a no-logs VPN that doesn’t keep logs is a necessity, like ExpressVPN. With military-grade 256-bit encryption, a VPN can keep your activities anonymous from the prying eyes on the internet.
- Avoid ads – In many countries, including the US, ISPs can sell your online data to third parties like advertisers. This increases the number of annoying ads, which just ruins the experience. The best no-logs VPN ensures to keep your online data is hidden from the ISP, which prevents your data from being used for ads.
5 Best No-Log VPNs in 2022 – Detailed Analysis
Now, when you skim through most websites that contain multiple VPN user reviews, you often find claims from various providers saying that they’re the best.
But, how do you know? I often say from time and time again that to know which VPN is the best, always look for certain attributes or features that are reliable.
In this case, we’re looking for not only the best VPN based on performance but also one that follows a zero-log policy. Meaning, they should be solid enough to respect your requirements and privacy; holding reliable policies.
Additionally, every provider was also picked on the basis of server coverage, safe jurisdiction, and unblocking abilities. That’s how I selected the following 5 VPNs, besides putting them to the test.
They are:
1. ExpressVPN- Recommended No-log VPN in 2022
Price | $6.67/mo. |
Website | expressvpn.com |
Of all the VPNs that were tested for this guide, ExpressVPN came out to be on the top in terms of having the strongest security features, extraordinary encryption, and unblocking abilities. Upon checking its no-log policy from time to time, it stayed consistent in proving that it never exposes the user data.
You can find on the official ExpressVPN website that it never stores your identifiable online information. Back in 2017, when the Turkish government seized one of the ExpressVPN servers, they could not find anything. This was because there was no data stored on it, as ExpressVPN always claims.
After that, we have seen ExpressVPN making more arrangements to ensure the user data is never stored. Now, things have been switched to RAM-based servers, which means the data is wiped clean on every reboot. You can access your favorite Hurawatch alternative without notifying your ISP.
Moreover, each of the ExpressVPN servers is secured with AES 256-bit encryption protocol to ensure no one can access the user data. Additionally, it offers 3000+ servers in 94 countries, which can help you unblock major streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and more.
When I tested and reviewed the ExpressVPN app, its features worked profoundly! All the features worked perfectly, which was quite imperative.
ExpressVPN allows simultaneous connections to up to 5 devices. Why not test the VPN on a few of them using either the ExpressVPN free trial for Android and iOS smartphones or on multiple devices using the 30-day refund? If you are not happy with the service, ask for a refund or account cancellation without any questions asked.
2. Surfshark – Overall the best zero log VPN
Price | $2.49/mo. |
Website | surfshark.com |
Surfshark is known as one of the best zero-log VPNs in general and is loved by users worldwide. It’s a budgeted VPN choice for most, with a price range that is as low as $2.49/mo.
It is based in the Netherlands, which is a privacy-friendly region. Moreover, a famous independent auditing firm Cure53 has confirmed Surfshark’s no logging claims two times while auditing.
Surfshark only stores user UD and the time stamp of the connection, but this data is also deleted in 15 minutes because of its RAM-only servers. Moreover, its other security features, such as DNS, IPV6, and WebTRC leak protection, help your data out of the reach of any outsider.
Moreover, its AES 256-bit encryption protocol keeps your online security top-notch. No one on the internet can see what you do, which is the primary reason to use a VPN in the first place.
There’s a lot to love about this all-rounder VPN. Some of the more valued attributes are great speeds, network coverage of 3200+ servers in 99 countries, and servers that are compatible with both streaming and P2P.
Surfshark also includes a Multi-hop server feature, masking your physical location with double power. Furthermore, you’ll also be at liberty to unblock heavily blocked services in censored countries like China using its new Shadowsocks protocol, available only on the Windows app.
Besides, you can unblock popular streaming services such as Netflix, Disney Plus, BBC iPlayer, and more.
Moreover, Surfshark allows unlimited device connections; maximum privacy on multiple platforms. A few of the devices it supports include Windows, Chrome extension, Android, iOS, macOS, Firestick, and a lot more. For a full angle on Surfshark’s testing results, have a look at my Surfshark review, or why not just test this zero-log VPN out for yourself using its 7-day free trial or directly jump into its 30-day refund policy?
3. NordVPN – Secure No log VPN in 2022
Price | $3.09/mo. |
Website | nordvpn.com |
Next, we have NordVPN. It has been around and top of the VPN game for quite some time, and that speaks volumes on its own. Most users trust NordVPN mainly because of its exceptional security features and true no-logging policies.
Based in Panama, NordVPN abides by its strict zero-logs or no-data retention laws, making it one of the safest providers in 2022. PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) has tested the zero-log policy claim of NordVPN twice. It shows that the no-log policy of NordVPN is true to its word.
Moreover, NordVPN is based in Panama, which is a privacy-friendly region without any data retention laws. Rest assured, NordVPN never stores your data regarding recording, logging, passing, or monitoring any of its user information.
NordVPN has around 5500+ servers in 59 countries, a wide coverage that aids in private connections to multiple platforms around the globe. Moreover, all of the servers are RAM-only, which means that the information saved on them does not last. To add to its anonymity, its servers are also optimized for extra private connections using Double VPN or Tor over VPN.
NordVPN also uses SmartPlay technologies, allowing safe and private access to over 400 streaming services worldwide. If you’re a sports fans, you can use these servers to get a dose of any game with Hesgoal and its alternatives.
Knowing that security is one of NordVPN’s biggest leading traits, a few of its notable features include 256-bit AES encryption, a Kill Switch, and sports OpenVPN protocol connections on most of its devices. Other distinct NordVPN features that make it part of the best logless VPN are its DNS/IP leak protection and a CyberSec feature if you need to block malicious ads.
All this and more is why NordVPN usually gets great reviews.
The only data that NordVPN does collect to make its service a little better for its users is your email address and the servers that are in use. This allows them to make improvements to the system if it ever fails to operate profoundly.
One of the best parts about this great provider is that it allows you to test-drive its premium features for free. You can do so by either using the NordVPN free trial for Android and iOS devices or directly jumping on to its 30-day refund on any paid plan. Don’t like the service? Ask for a refund and account cancellation
4. CyberGhost – User-friendly VPN with a transparent no-log record
Price | $2.29/mo. |
Website | cyberghost.com |
Next on the list for the best zero log VPN, we have CyberGhost, a Romanian provider. It is known in the VPN industry for being best for privacy, and its logless VPN policies are reliable.
CyberGhost has always protected its user privacy and kept it as a top priority. It has been under multiple audits and has proven its claim to never store any user data. You can also check quarterly transparency reports of CyberGhost, where the information on it is handling its data is available.
CyberGhost has one of the most extensive server coverage when compared to other VPNs of the same ranking. It covers around 7000+ servers in 90 countries; plenty of servers to go around, which makes streaming with anonymity much easier to do!
CyberGhost utilizes AES 256-bit encryption, with OpenVPN on every major app. A few of its supported apps include Windows, Android, iOS, macOS, Fire TV, a Chrome extension, and more. It even supports simultaneous connections on up to 7 devices.
The only information that CyberGhost seems to collect is your email, name, and address. But they also mentioned that it gets stored in an anonymous mode, only utilized to send updates or payment details to the IDs. You can also use an anonymous payment method for CyberGhost since it allows Bitcoin.
You can even try putting this budgeted VPN to the test by using the free trial for Android and iOS mobile devices or utilizing the 45-day refund. According to the user reviews it receives, CyberGhost makes up a good option for a no-log VPN.
5. FastestVPN – budgeted zero-logs VPN in 2022
Price | $1.11/mo. |
Website | fastestvpn.com |
FastestVPN is a Cayman Islands provider, far away from the 14-eyes alliance. The reason why it made it to this list is mainly that it abides by the no-logging policy quite religiously.
FastestVPN is loved by many users worldwide because it is not only the best for security and streaming but also manages to be one of the best-budgeted VPNs in the industry, priced as little as $1.11/mo. This caters to the bigger crowds as it is the most affordable.
Besides FastestVPN’s clear-cut logless VPN policies, which you’ll see in a few seconds, there’s a lot more to know regarding its overall functionality or performance. Starting with its network coverage, FastestVPN has around 550+ servers in 40+ countries.
A few of the FastestVPN servers are even Unix-based and optimized for P2P. If you open its app, you’ll see that a few servers are labeled with the services it unblocks.
That might not seem like a lot and, in fact, could do a little better by adding more servers to its list, but the greatness of a VPN depends on its overall performance. And, FastestVPN ticked all the right boxes when put under testing.
FastestVPN has managed to unblock multiple services even from countries like Russia, which’s under observance of heavy surveillance laws. But, to be able to function in countries as such, they’re going to have to have reliable no-logs policies to support it:
FastestVPN is pretty clear where policies are concerned and collect as little information as possible; in fact, it is only an email address, but it can be a pseudo one.
Apart from this, did you know that FastestVPN is known for having great security support? It operates using AES 256-bit encryption, has a Kill Switch, and even a NAT Firewall. When I conducted a few tests, I was pleased to see that the VPN was DNS and IP leak free!
Even though the servers that FastestVPN envelops are a little fewer, it makes up for it by having wide support for various apps and platforms.
It allows simultaneous device connections on up to 10 devices, which is way more than a few of the VPNs mentioned here. It supports Windows, iOS, macOS, Android, Linux, Roku, Nvidia Shield TV, Kodi, and more!
The only downside, in my opinion, is that there isn’t a free trial. However, FastestVPN does have a 15-day refund. They guarantee a full refund if the subscription is canceled within the time frame.
What kind of information do VPNs log?
When you sign up for a VPN service, you probably just look at one fraction of the picture. Maybe for how to unblock multiple streaming services from abroad or stay safe on the internet.
It is a fact that you’re putting your trust in a VPN, running from the watchful eyes of other sources. But, do you realize that if you choose the wrong VPN a lot more can go wrong? Think of it like running from one surveillance body and landing on another.
Choosing a VPN that keeps your activity log is a big NO. If a VPN can store your online information, it can always sell it to third parties on the internet for the right price. Choosing the best no-log VPN in 2022 is the only way to keep your online activities hidden and protected.
The provider you choose has to have extremely strict no-logging policies, even if they’re located in countries within the 14-eyes alliance.
Below are the two types of data a VPN can log;
Metadata or Connection logs
This type of log is sometimes posed as harmless, collecting limited information. A few pieces of the information collected include the way you utilize the VPN, how many devices you’re running the VPN on, whether you’re not using the Network for any unethical surfing, what kind of activities you used them for (streaming or torrenting) etc.
It even checks up on the session time between connecting to the VPN and when you’ve disconnected. It does not matter how harmless connection logs may seem; there are situations where VPNs do collect the user’s IP addresses.
That’s where the real danger begins. If the wrong VPN provider catches on to your IP address, they can trace every single website you visited, along with the activities, back to you.
Traffic or Activity logs
Everything you do on the internet is labeled as an activity, and moving from website to website is traffic. All that you do on the internet ranging from downloading a song, streaming a movie from a restricted service, or attempting to torrent large files that might violate a couple of copyright laws, can be labeled as activity logs. A VPN has access to all of that and more.
This is the kind of trouble you should be aware of when connected to a VPN. However, when you settle for a top VPN provider, they will abide by certain policies, discarding or deleting any logs that may have been made.
This is why you should be twice as careful when choosing one. Why experience double surveillance and consequences?
For this reason, to take the load off of you, I’ve tested the VPNs above and went through all their policies quite extensively. Based on my findings, test results, and comparisons made by other user reviews, I recommend them as the best no-log VPNs.
How to Choose the Best No-log VPN in 2022
Before choosing the VPNs, I ensured to check them based on certain criteria. Below, you can find out how I selected the best no-log VPNs;
- Transparent no-logs policy – Instead of taking the word of the VPN provider for its no-logs policy, look for a real-world example where its claim has been proven. See if they have been audited by the government or an independent auditing firm.
- Independent audits – Independent audits double-check if a VPN actually is what it claims to be. If the claims are not true, why bother getting that VPN at all?
- See where it is based – If a VPN is based in a privacy-friendly region, it will not be forced by any government to hand over the data. This makes a VPN worth more than the ones that are placed in regions like the 5-eyes alliance or 14-eyes alliance.
- Top-notch encryption – It is essential that a VPN must follow AES 256-bit encryption protocol, kill switch, IP/DNS leak protection, and a vast server network. It helps in keeping your online data safe from the government, ISPs, and hackers.
- Secure servers – It is essential that a VPN provider has RAM-based servers. This way the data saved on them cannot last as every reboot it is deleted.
- Anonymous payment options – If you pay with cryptocurrency, you will not have to provide your credit card details or personal details.
- Ultra-fast speeds – With a VPN with ultra-fast speeds, you will not even notice you are using one. It can help you make fast connections and a flawless streaming experience. Every no-log VPN mentioned above offers stable speeds for that reason.
- Streaming and torrenting capabilities – If you want to unblock your favorite streaming channels or download torrents, you will need a VPN to unblock your preferred platforms. A VPN with a vast server network can help you with that.
- Leak Protection – A no-logs VPN must never leak your IP address. If it did, it can enable your ISP, the government, and anyone on the internet to see your online activities.
FAQs – Best No-Log VPN
How can I know if my VPN keeps logs or not?
The best way to know if your VPN keeps logs or not is by ensuring it has been passed through independent audits in real-world situations. You can find this out on their official websites, as they clearly state this. Most VPNs have had their server seized by the government, and nothing was found on them as they never logged any user information, such as ExpressVPN.
What is a no-logs VPN?
A no-log VPN is one that does not keep logs of your online activities. This ensures that your information can’t be stored. Everything that you do online will always stay hidden and private.
Do free VPNs log information?
Yes, they do. In fact, most free VPNs log their user’s data. This is to make up for the fact that the VPN services are free. They usually actively steal their users’ information and sell it to other providers, third-party organizations, or to countries within the eyes-alliance.
What is the best no-log VPN?
ExpressVPN is the best no-log VPN in 2022. It has been under multiple independent audits, which support its claim to be the best zero-log VPN. Moreover, when one of its servers was seized by the government, they found nothing on it because, as mentioned earlier, ExpressVPN never keeps logs of its user’s information.
Will a no-logs VPN keep me anonymous?
It can help you stay anonymous on the internet. However, always ensure to see what security protocols and encryption it follows to know that your data is in safe hands.
Can I get a no-log VPN for free?
Yes, you can, but we do not recommend it. Free VPNs are so big on their claim on the no-logs policy. They lack security, and they also share their user online information with third parties for the right price. How else do you think they get paid if they do not ask for a subscription fee from you?
Are no-logs VPNs safe?
Yes, they are; in fact, they are the safest VPN in the market. They never store any data of yours, which means no one can see what you do on the internet. This is the primary reason for using VPNs.
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