Introduction
Online privacy is important. We use Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to protect our data and stay anonymous online. PrivateVPN is also a known VPN that claims to provide strong security, streaming support, and torrenting features at a low cost.
This review covers everything about PrivateVPN in simple terms.
PrivateVPN at a Glance
Here are some quick facts about PrivateVPN:
- Price: Starts at $2.00/month (for 36 months plan only)
- Server Network: 200+ servers in 63 countries
- Supports Streaming: Yes (Netflix, Hulu, etc.)
- Number of Devices: 10 connections at once
- Free Trial: 7 days
- Money-Back Guarantee: 30 days
What We Liked About PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN has some good features, especially for users with specific needs. Here are its strong points:
1. Unblocks Netflix and Other Platforms
PrivateVPN is great for unblocking geo-restricted content. It works with Netflix libraries from countries like the US, UK, and Japan. You can also use it for Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and YouTube. But be aware—some users reported slower connections for distant servers.
2. Supports Torrenting
PrivateVPN allows P2P connections and port forwarding, making it suitable for downloading torrents safely. In recent tests, it showed decent speeds, especially on dedicated servers.
3. Affordable Pricing
The pricing is one of the lowest among top VPNs. The longest plan costs only $2.00/month, and even the monthly plan is cheaper than many competitors.
4. Customizable Encryption
You can choose between different encryption levels like AES-128 or AES-256. This option is rare and gives you flexibility based on your needs—faster speeds or stronger security.
5. User-Friendly Apps
The desktop apps are simple and easy to use. You can customize your settings without much hassle. The mobile apps are functional but lack advanced features.
Pricing and Plans
PrivateVPN offers simple pricing plans that vary based on subscription length:
| Plan | Cost |
|---|---|
| 1-Month Plan | $9.90/month |
| 3-Month Plan | $6.00/month |
| 36-Month Plan | $2.00/month |
Free Trial and Money-Back Guarantee
- Free Trial: 7 days, no payment required, but you need to contact support for activation.
- Money-Back Guarantee: 30 days for all plans.
Payment Methods
You can pay using:
- Credit cards
- PayPal (with a 5% handling fee)
- Google Pay
- Apple Pay
- Cryptocurrencies
For the best deal, consider the 36-month plan, which is one of the cheapest long-term VPN options available.
Drawbacks of PrivateVPN
While it has some good features, PrivateVPN also has its downsides:
1. Small Server Network
With only 200+ servers, PrivateVPN cannot compete with providers like NordVPN, which has thousands of servers. Fewer servers mean slower speeds during busy times.
2. Lacks Advanced Features
Unlike competitors, PrivateVPN does not offer split tunneling or advanced ad-blocking tools. This might be disappointing for users looking for more control over their connections.
3. No Independent Audit
PrivateVPN claims a no-logs policy but has not undergone third-party audits to prove it. For users concerned about privacy, this might be a deal-breaker.
Is PrivateVPN Safe?
PrivateVPN is safe to use. It provides strong security features like:
- Encryption: AES-256 encryption, which is the industry standard.
- Protocols: It supports OpenVPN, WireGuard, and others.
- Kill Switch: Disconnects your internet if the VPN fails, ensuring your IP remains hidden.
But remember, PrivateVPN operates from Sweden, a member of the Fourteen Eyes Alliance. This raises concerns for users wanting maximum privacy.
Speed and Performance
PrivateVPN is not the fastest VPN but performs well for everyday browsing and torrenting. During speed tests, it showed the following results:
| Region | Download Speed Retention | Upload Speed Retention |
|---|---|---|
| US | 56% | 81% |
| UK | 52% | 67% |
| Australia | 71% | 87% |
The performance is decent for most tasks but may lag when connecting to distant servers.
PrivateVPN for Streaming
If you enjoy watching shows and movies, PrivateVPN could be a good choice. It works with popular platforms like Netflix and Hulu. But, how well does it perform?
Netflix and Other Platforms
PrivateVPN successfully unblocks Netflix libraries in countries like the US, UK, Canada, and Japan. Streaming quality is smooth if you’re near the server’s location. However, some users reported buffering issues when connecting to far-away servers, especially in Australia.
Other Streaming Services
In addition to Netflix, PrivateVPN can unblock services like:
- Amazon Prime Video
- Hulu
- BBC iPlayer (with mixed results)
- YouTube
It sometimes struggles with Disney+ and some regional platforms. For consistent streaming across all platforms, services like Surfshark or NordVPN are better alternatives.
Streaming Speed
While PrivateVPN can unblock content, its smaller server network sometimes leads to slow connections. If streaming is your top priority, ensure the server you connect to is geographically close.
Torrenting and P2P Support
PrivateVPN is one of the better VPNs for torrenting. It supports P2P traffic and has dedicated torrenting servers. Here’s what you need to know:
Port Forwarding
PrivateVPN allows port forwarding, which can improve your torrenting speeds. This feature is beneficial for users who often download large files.
Server Availability
Although PrivateVPN supports torrenting, its limited number of dedicated P2P servers can sometimes get crowded. Overloaded servers may reduce speeds, so it’s important to test different servers for the best performance.
Privacy for Torrenting
With AES-256 encryption and a no-logs policy, PrivateVPN ensures your torrenting activities remain private. However, the absence of independent audits means users need to rely on the company’s claims.
Security Features
PrivateVPN focuses on providing secure connections. Here’s a breakdown of its key security features:
Customizable Encryption
PrivateVPN allows users to select their encryption level:
- AES-128: Faster but slightly less secure.
- AES-256: Industry-standard and extremely secure.
This flexibility is useful for users who prioritize speed or maximum security.
Protocols
PrivateVPN supports several VPN protocols, including:
- OpenVPN: Reliable and secure, with UDP and TCP options.
- WireGuard: A modern, fast protocol ideal for most users.
- IKEv2/IPSec: Suitable for mobile devices.
- L2TP and PPTP: Outdated and not recommended due to weaker security.
Kill Switch
The kill switch protects your IP address by disconnecting your internet if the VPN connection drops. While it performed well in tests, occasional app crashes bypassed the kill switch, exposing the real IP address.
No-Logs Policy
PrivateVPN claims to have a strict no-logs policy. However, it operates in Sweden, which is part of the Fourteen Eyes Alliance, a group of countries known for data-sharing agreements. Without independent audits, some users may find this concerning.
Server Network and Locations
A VPN’s server network affects its speed, unblocking capabilities, and overall performance. PrivateVPN’s server count is limited compared to competitors.
Server Availability
- Total Servers: 200+
- Countries Covered: 63
While the server count is small, PrivateVPN covers most regions, including Europe, Asia, the Americas, and Africa. The limited number of servers can lead to overcrowding, reducing speed.
Performance in Different Regions
During tests, download and upload speeds varied significantly by region:
- Europe: Best performance with minimal speed drops.
- North America: Good speeds for most users.
- Asia and Australia: Noticeable slowdowns due to fewer servers.
Specialty Servers
PrivateVPN offers dedicated servers for torrenting and streaming. These servers are optimized for specific tasks but are limited in number, which may cause delays during peak hours.
User Experience and Interface
PrivateVPN has simple, user-friendly apps across most platforms. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced VPN user, the interface is easy to navigate.
Desktop Apps
The Windows and macOS apps are the most feature-rich. Users can switch between basic and advanced views:
- Basic View: Ideal for quick connections.
- Advanced View: Allows customization of encryption, protocols, and settings.
Mobile Apps
The Android and iOS apps are functional but lack advanced features like split tunneling. Still, they include a kill switch for added security.
Setup on Routers
PrivateVPN can be manually configured on routers. While this allows multiple devices to connect, the setup process can be tricky for non-technical users.
Customer Support
PrivateVPN provides customer support via live chat and email. To activate the 7-day free trial, users need to contact support, which some might find inconvenient.
Alternatives to PrivateVPN
If PrivateVPN doesn’t meet your needs, here are some alternatives:
NordVPN
- Thousands of servers worldwide.
- Superior streaming and torrenting capabilities.
- Price starts at $2.99/month.
Surfshark
- Unlimited device connections.
- Advanced security features like CleanWeb.
- Affordable pricing at $1.99/month.
ExpressVPN
- User-friendly for beginners.
- High-speed connections.
- Starting at $5.32/month.
PrivateVPN: Pros and Cons
Every VPN has strengths and weaknesses. Let’s take a closer look at what works well and where PrivateVPN could improve.
Pros of PrivateVPN
- Affordable Pricing
The $2.00/month plan is among the cheapest for long-term subscriptions. It’s a great option for budget-conscious users. - Good for Torrenting
With P2P support and port forwarding, PrivateVPN makes downloading torrents safe and efficient. - Streaming Compatibility
PrivateVPN can unblock major platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu, though its performance varies by region. - Customizable Security
Offering AES-128 and AES-256 encryption, PrivateVPN allows users to choose between speed or maximum security. - User-Friendly Apps
Easy-to-navigate apps are available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. They’re great for both beginners and experienced users. - Supports 10 Devices
You can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously, making it ideal for families. - Reliable Kill Switch
The kill switch ensures your IP address stays hidden if the VPN disconnects.
Cons of PrivateVPN
- Small Server Network
Only 200+ servers in 63 countries make it prone to overcrowding, especially during peak times. - Lacks Advanced Features
No split tunneling or ad-blocking features are available, which are common in competing VPNs. - No Independent Audits
The no-logs policy has not been verified by third-party audits, raising concerns for privacy-focused users. - Average Speed
PrivateVPN’s speed is sufficient for browsing and torrenting but struggles with distant servers, especially for 4K streaming. - Complicated Free Trial
Activating the free trial requires contacting customer support, which can be inconvenient. - Limited Support for China
Despite having a Stealth VPN mode, PrivateVPN cannot reliably bypass the Great Firewall of China.
How PrivateVPN Compares to Competitors
How does PrivateVPN stack up against more established VPN providers like NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN? Here’s a quick comparison.
| Feature | PrivateVPN | NordVPN | Surfshark | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price (per month) | $2.00 (36-month plan) | $2.99 (24-month plan) | $1.99 (24-month plan) | $5.32 (24-month plan) |
| Server Count | 200+ | 5,600+ | 3,200+ | 3,000+ |
| Device Connections | 10 | 6 | Unlimited | 8 |
| Unblocks Netflix | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Split Tunneling | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Independent Audits | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
PrivateVPN offers basic features at a low cost. However, for advanced capabilities, NordVPN or Surfshark are better choices.
Who Should Use PrivateVPN?
PrivateVPN is ideal for users with specific needs:
Best For
- Budget Users: Its low-cost plans are perfect for those who want a basic VPN without spending too much.
- Casual Streamers: If you watch Netflix and don’t need access to all platforms, PrivateVPN works well.
- Torrent Users: With P2P support and port forwarding, it’s a solid option for safe torrenting.
Not Suitable For
- Advanced Features: If you need split tunneling or ad-blocking, PrivateVPN may feel limited.
- China Users: It struggles with bypassing the Great Firewall, so other VPNs like ExpressVPN are better.
- Privacy Enthusiasts: The lack of independent audits might not inspire confidence in its no-logs policy.
How to Set Up PrivateVPN
Using PrivateVPN is straightforward. Follow these steps:
1. Download the App
Go to the PrivateVPN website and download the app for your device. It supports Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and routers.
2. Create an Account
Sign up for an account and choose a subscription plan.
3. Connect to a Server
Open the app, log in, and select a server. Use nearby servers for better speeds.
4. Customize Settings (Optional)
In the app, you can adjust encryption levels, choose protocols, and enable the kill switch.
5. Start Browsing Safely
Once connected, your online activities are encrypted and private.
Final Thoughts on PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN is a decent VPN for basic needs. It offers affordability, good security, and useful features like P2P support and customizable encryption. While it excels in some areas, such as unblocking Netflix and safe torrenting, it falls short in server variety, advanced features, and privacy assurances.
If you’re looking for a simple VPN on a budget, PrivateVPN is worth considering. However, if speed, advanced features, or strong privacy guarantees are your priority, alternatives like NordVPN or Surfshark are better choices.
Frequently Asked Questions About PrivateVPN
Here are some common questions users have about PrivateVPN and their simple answers:
1. Is PrivateVPN Safe to Use?
Yes, PrivateVPN uses AES-256 encryption, which is the industry standard for security. It also has a reliable kill switch to prevent data leaks. However, the lack of independent audits means privacy-conscious users might prefer more transparent VPNs like NordVPN.
2. Does PrivateVPN Work with Netflix?
Yes, PrivateVPN can unblock Netflix libraries in countries like the US, UK, and Japan. However, performance might vary based on the server’s distance and load.
3. Can PrivateVPN Be Used in China?
PrivateVPN has a Stealth VPN mode designed to bypass restrictions. However, it does not work consistently in China, making it less reliable for users in that region.
4. How Many Devices Can I Use with PrivateVPN?
You can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously with a single PrivateVPN subscription. This makes it a good choice for families or users with multiple devices.
5. What Payment Methods Does PrivateVPN Accept?
PrivateVPN accepts credit cards, PayPal, Google Pay, Apple Pay, and cryptocurrencies. Note that PayPal payments include a 5% handling fee.
6. Does PrivateVPN Keep Logs?
PrivateVPN claims to have a strict no-logs policy, meaning it does not track your online activities. However, the policy has not been independently verified, which could be a concern for privacy-focused users.
7. What Happens If the VPN Disconnects?
PrivateVPN includes a kill switch that automatically disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops. This prevents your IP address and data from being exposed.
8. How Can I Get the Free Trial?
To activate the 7-day free trial, you must contact PrivateVPN’s customer support via email. It does not require payment information, but the process is less convenient compared to other VPNs.
Should You Choose PrivateVPN?
Choose PrivateVPN If:
- You need a budget-friendly VPN for basic tasks.
- Streaming Netflix is a priority, and your location is near their servers.
- You are a casual torrent user needing P2P support and port forwarding.
Consider Other VPNs If:
- You require advanced features like split tunneling or malware blocking.
- Speed is a top priority, especially for streaming or gaming.
- You need a VPN that works reliably in restrictive regions like China.
Comparing PrivateVPN with Other VPNs
Let’s summarize how PrivateVPN stacks up against its competitors:
PrivateVPN vs. NordVPN
- Strengths of NordVPN: Larger server network, better privacy (independent audits), faster speeds, and advanced features like split tunneling.
- Strengths of PrivateVPN: Cheaper pricing for long-term plans.
PrivateVPN vs. Surfshark
- Strengths of Surfshark: Unlimited device connections, faster speeds, and ad-blocking tools.
- Strengths of PrivateVPN: Dedicated P2P servers and port forwarding.
PrivateVPN vs. ExpressVPN
- Strengths of ExpressVPN: Excellent for beginners, strong privacy policies, and reliable access in restrictive regions.
- Strengths of PrivateVPN: Lower cost and customizable encryption options.
Final Recommendation
PrivateVPN is a great choice if you need a low-cost, secure VPN for basic tasks like browsing, streaming, and torrenting. Its customizable encryption and user-friendly apps make it an attractive option for beginners or those on a budget.
However, its limited server network, lack of advanced features, and unverified no-logs policy might not satisfy users seeking premium VPN features or the highest privacy standards. For those needs, consider alternatives like NordVPN or Surfshark, which offer better performance and privacy assurances.
Closing Note
PrivateVPN delivers good value for its price. While it’s not perfect, it offers a simple and affordable way to secure your online activities. Whether you’re streaming Netflix, downloading torrents, or just browsing safely, PrivateVPN provides the basics without breaking the bank.