11 Best VPNs with Free Trial in 2023

Getting a long-term VPN subscription is an excellent idea if you want to save money. That's because even the most high-end VPNs offer steep discounts on their long-term plans. Still, you want to be sure before you spend your money, which is where VPN free trials come into play.

As you can already imagine, the best VPN with a free trial will give you full access to its features for a certain number of days. More precisely, all the VPNs you’ll find below allow you to test them for a maximum of 7 days and a minimum of 1 day.

That said, if you want to base your search based on the duration of the trial period, we offer a helpful resource. Here are the best 7-day free trial VPN options and the best 30-day VPN free trial offers.

Also, know that some VPN trials only ask for your email address. However, others require your payment information (here are the best free VPN trial with no credit card needed). So, be aware of their trials' duration and cancel your account on time.

To learn more about this "fine print," make sure to read our "Frequently Asked Questions" section, found at the bottom. And now, let's jump right in, shall we?

Top Best Free Trial VPN - Our Shortlist

1. ExpressVPN – Our #1-Rated VPN Free Trial in 2023
2. NordVPN – Best VPN Free Trial for Mobile Devices
3. CyberGhost VPN – Best Free Trial VPN on Desktop Devices
4. Surfshark – Best VPN Trial for Streaming on Mobile
5. Hotspot Shield - Best One-Click VPN with Free Trial
6. Avast SecureLine VPN – Best VPN Free Trial for Basic Users
7. F-Secure Freedome VPN - Best Free VPN Trial for Public Wi-Fi
8. HMA (HideMyAss) – Best Cross-Platform VPN Trial
9. AVG Secure VPN – Best Hassle-Free VPN Trial for Desktop
10. CactusVPN – Best Free Trial for a Budget-Friendly VPN
11. TorGuard - Best VPN Free Trial for Advanced Users

How to Get a VPN Free Trial

Getting your free VPN trial is quite easy and won't take more than a few minutes of your time. These are the steps you need to take:

1. Pick a VPN based on our recommendations (we recommend ExpressVPN's Risk-Free Trial).
2. Use the links provided throughout this guide to get to your chosen VPN's site.
3. If asked for payment information to access your trial, input your credit card info.
4. To test a VPN on your phone, use the links found in this article to download its app.
5. Then, install and launch the VPN app. If you need to sign up, provide the required info.
6. You can now test-drive your chosen VPN for a limited amount of time.
7. To avoid getting charged, make sure to cancel your VPN trial on time.

The Best VPN Free Trial in 2023

The best VPN with a free trial should give you unlimited access without any restrictions, letting you test every single server, change between protocols, unblock sites and streaming services, download torrents, bypass Internet censorship, and plenty more - without charging you a single dollar, of course.

Based on the criteria mentioned just above, we present the 11 best VPNs with a free trial you can try before you buy:

1. ExpressVPN - Our #1-Rated VPN Free Trial in 2023

ExpressVPN is the best VPN free trial available today. We've decided to highlight it because this is an ultra-capable VPN suitable for any use, featuring high-end tools that ensure the privacy and safety of sensitive information on the Web.

When it comes to its trial, ExpressVPN offers that option only via its mobile apps (on Android, iOS, and iPadOS). You'll need to download the VPN app to your phone or tablet, and then initialize your 7-day trial from there.

Keep in mind you'll need to use your email address when signing up. Also, you'll need to agree to a subscription plan, which means you'll be charged once your trial ends.

That also means your credit card (or another payment method) needs to be associated with your Apple ID or Google Account. At the time of writing this guide, ExpressVPN's price on mobile devices is $99.99 per year, so you'll end up with its annual plan.

On the other hand, you can also make use of a 30-day risk-free trial provided by ExpressVPN. That means you can subscribe via ExpressVPN's site, purchase a plan (you'll get 3 extra months that way if you pick the VPN's annual plan), and then use ExpressVPN on any device. For that to happen, you need to provide your email address and payment method (keep in mind that you'll be charged immediately).

For more information, turn to our guide on the ExpressVPN free trial. That's where you'll find detailed info on this VPN's free trial options, as well as instructions on how to get started.

2. NordVPN - Best VPN Free Trial for Mobile Devices

NordVPN is known for offering a comprehensive set of VPN features wrapped up in a highly polished package. You get nicely designed apps, the ability to block online trackers, unblock any website, and even fight against sophisticated anti-VPN measures.

NordVPN’s trial is currently available on Android. It used to cover desktop platforms in the past, but NordVPN was forced to shut down that trial due to widespread abuse.

That means you need to download this VPN on your Android from Google's Play Store and then create your Nord account (you'll need to provide your email address and create a password).

Then, pick a subscription plan, and you'll have 7 days to try NordVPN. If you don’t cancel at least 24 hours before the trial ends, you will be charged - so keep that in mind. Also, that means you need to have a credit card associated with your Google Account.

Another option is to subscribe via NordVPN's website, where you won't find a trial - but you'll find a no-questions-asked 30-day money-back policy. You'll have more subscription plans to choose from, a wider variety of payment options, and you'll gain access to all NordVPN apps. However, you'll need to pay immediately (with an option to have your money returned within the first 30 days of your subscription).

We provide more details on the NordVPN free trial options in our dedicated guide. So, use the provided link to learn about all the available options.

3. CyberGhost VPN - Best Free Trial VPN on Desktop Devices

Coming from Romania, CyberGhost VPN has reached massive popularity around the world. It’s one of the most user-friendly VPNs out there. Bringing a simple interface, it lets you browse the Web without restrictions, use specialized media streaming servers, and engage in P2P traffic.

To get this free trial VPN, you need to download CyberGhost VPN to your computer or phone (without having to sign up on its website first). Install the application, sign up using its UI, and you’ll get to use it for a limited time.

More precisely, if you're on iOS or Android, you can download CyberGhost VPN from Apple's App Store or Google's Play Store. Open the app and tap "Subscribe No"' to activate this VPN's trial. You'll need to agree to the VPN's annual plan (currently priced at $56.94/year), which means a payment method needs to be associated with your Apple ID or Google Account.

If you're on a Windows or macOS computer, you can use this free VPN trial for 24 hours. In that case, click on the "Download VPN" button on the VPN's website to download and then install the software. Sign up for a new account using your email address (no payment info is needed) and you'll get 24 hours of unrestricted access to CyberGhost VPN on your computer.

If you're confused by the available options CyberGhost offers in terms of its trial, we have just the right resource to help. Turn to our CyberGhost VPN free trial guide for more info.

4. Surfshark - Best VPN Trial for Streaming on Mobile

This is one of our favorite VPN with a free trial at the moment, bringing a clever combination of advanced yet easy-to-use features. Surfshark protects your Web data, unblocks sites, eliminates ads and trackers, and plenty more. On top of that, it can also help secure your email address and help you privately search the Web.

Keep in mind that Surfshark offers a 7-day free trial, but only via Google's Play Store and Apple's App Store. Once you download the Surfshark app, launch it and tap "Start Free Trial." You'll need to create an account using your email address, as well as create a password.

Then, you'll need to agree to a subscription plan, which means your Apple ID or Google Account must have a payment method already added. If you cancel your subscription on time, you’ll avoid getting charged. Otherwise, you will be charged once your trial ends.

The above said applies to devices running Android and iOS/iPadOS. However, the same applies to Surfshark's app for macOS - if you download it from the Mac App Store. As long as you have payment information added to your Apple ID, you'll get to use Surfshark's 7-day trial on macOS.

Another option would be to subscribe via Surfshark's website, where you can pick from a wider range of subscription plans. Keep in mind that you'll need to pay for your subscription straight away (so, you'll need to provide your email address and payment information). However, you'll have a 30-day money-back guarantee, without any questions asked.

5. Hotspot Shield - Best One-Click VPN with Free Trial

Hotspot Shield has come a long way during the last couple of years. Today, it's one of the best-looking VPNs, bringing a set of features for those seeking digital privacy. Aside from its nicely designed interface, you get support for all kinds of devices and platforms, and the ability to unblock streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney Plus.

This VPN has a 7-day trial, which you can get via its website. It comes free of charge, you will need to provide your payment information. Hotspot Shield supports credit cards and PayPal, so you'll be charged for the VPN's monthly subscription ($12.99) once your 7-day trial ends.

If you decide not to stick with Hotspot Shield, you can cancel your trial before it ends, and you won't be charged. And if you wish to test the VPN a bit longer, know that Hotspot Shield has a 45-day money-back guarantee, so you can get your money back by contacting its support.

We'll also note that Hotspot Shield imposes no restrictions during its trial. Since you'll sign up via its website, you'll end up with a fully working account. That means that during your trial, you can download Hotspot Shield on any device and test all of its features.

6. Avast SecureLine VPN - Best VPN Free Trial for Basic Users

We are sure you’ve heard of Avast before, the creator of one of the world’s most popular antivirus. So, it’s not surprising to see Avast offering a VPN as well. Called SecureLine VPN, it brings a simple interface, gets you past the Netflix blockade, and doesn’t leak your data.

In terms of its trial, you need to get started using SecureLine VPN's desktop apps (Windows or macOS). Download its Windows or macOS app, install, and then launch it. Before you connect, you'll need to add a payment method (credit card or PayPal) to activate your account.

Don't worry, as you won't be charged. In fact, you'll have 60 days to test-drive the VPN, and you'll receive an email 7 days before your trial is due to end. If you cancel your subscription, you won't be charged. And if decide to go with the VPN, you'll become a paying customer.

When it comes to mobile platforms (Android, iOS), Avast SecureLine VPN also comes with a 7-day trial. However, your payment information is required. Alternatively, you can get started with SecureLine VPN on a desktop and then use those credentials on mobile devices as well.

More precisely, there must be a payment method associated with your Apple ID or Google ID. If you don't cancel on time, you will be charged $59.99 per year once your trial ends.

7. F-Secure Freedome VPN - Best Free VPN Trial for Public Wi-Fi

Created by F-Secure, a highly respectable cyber-security company, Freedome VPN is a basic VPN service that caters to the average home user. In other words, it focuses mostly on your privacy, with a few extra features bundled as well.

If you wish to test-drive F-Secure Freedome VPN for free, you can do that on desktop devices. That includes Windows and macOS. All you have to do is to download the VPN app from its site and install the app on your computer. Launch it, and you'll receive an unlimited 5-day trial.

That means you won't have to register for an account. Also, no payment information is needed, so you won't be charged once your trial ends. Instead, the application will deactivate and will remain that way until you purchase a subscription.

In terms of mobile platforms, Freedome VPN offers a 5-day trial on Android devices and a 7-day trial on iOS devices (iPhones & iPads). To activate this free trial VPN, you must have a payment method associated with your Google Account or Apple ID.

8. HMA (HideMyAss) - Best Cross-Platform VPN Trial

HideMyAss has managed to attract our attention thanks to the fact that it is present in the entire world. That’s true – you can find servers in almost every country in the world, giving you a chance to get a new IP instantaneously.

When it comes to this VPN trial, you'll need to sign up for it on HMA's website. That means you'll need to supply your payment information (credit card or PayPal), which is when you'll get access to HMA's unrestricted 7-day trial.

However, if you don't cancel your subscription before your trial ends, HMA will charge you for its annual subscription (priced at $83.88 plus tax, at the moment). So, if you don't wish to be charged, cancel at least 24 hours before your trial ends.

Since your trial account imposes no limitations, you'll get to use HMA across all its apps. You'll also get unlimited access to its features, giving you a clear idea of what to expect if you decide to become a paying customer.

Lastly, know that you'll get a 30-day money-back guarantee, but HMA won't refund you if they have "fully performed" prior to the date you requested a cancellation and refund. That means you might not get the full amount you paid.

9. AVG Secure VPN - Best Hassle-Free VPN Trial for Desktop

AVG, without any doubt, is known for its security-oriented software. Their Secure VPN is a bit different than what you might expect. It does work without issues, unblocks sites, and even provides access to Netflix. However, this VPN comes with a very limited number of servers.

If you’re willing to try out AVG’s Secure VPN, the best way to do that is by downloading its desktop application. Before you connect for the first time, the application will ask for your payment information. Once you supply that, you'll get 60 days to test-drive Secure VPN.

Then, you can use your credentials on any devices that Secure VPN supports. That means you can test-drive it for 60 days even on your mobile devices and tablets.

We'll also mention that AVG Secure VPN comes with a 30-day money-back policy. Still, its refund policy is somewhat vague, saying they won't return your money for any services they "have fully performed prior to the date you requested a refund."

Lastly, this AVG used to be a VPN with a free trial for Android and iOS. However, that's no longer the case, which means you're restricted to desktop platforms only.

10. CactusVPN - Best Free Trial for a Budget-Friendly VPN

Cactus VPN caters to those looking for an easy-to-use solution. You can install this VPN on a complete range of devices and get to use equally simple UIs across all of those. And while it doesn’t work with Netflix, it supports other media streaming services.

CactusVPN comes with a 3-day VPN free trial, and keep in mind that you need to sign up via its official website. You need to provide your email address, which means no payment info is needed. You won't be charged after the trial ends, which comes with no restrictions or limitations to the VPN's features.

Once you sign up for your CactusVPN trial, you'll end up with credentials that you can use across its apps. Since the VPN is available on mobile and desktop devices, that gives you plenty of options to test-drive the VPN and see if it's worth becoming a paying customer.

Lastly, remember to take your time when testing CactusVPN. That's because if you get charged, the VPN won't return your money unless you can prove that you can't connect to its VPN servers, which means that a lot of troubleshooting talks will be involved.

11. TorGuard - Best VPN Free Trial for Advanced Users

Here, we have a highly reputable VPN that caters to more advanced users. TorGuard has been around for quite some time, creating a roster of highly capable features. That said, if you're after a VPN service that lets you fine-tune even the smallest bits of your connection, TorGuard will meet your needs.

In terms of TorGuard's trial, you have two options. If you plan to switch from another VPN, you can cancel your subscription and send your last VPN bill to TorGuard (freshstart@torguard.net). That way, TorGuard will give you a 7-day trial, without your having to provide any personal information. And if you cancel your other VPN subscription, you'll get 30 days of use extra.

Then, there's another way to test TorGuard for 7 days. You can sign up for TorGuard's trial via its website, but you'll have to choose a VPN subscription first. That means you'll have to provide your email address, payment information, and other personal information.

If you don't cancel your VPN free trial on time (24 hours before it's due to end), you'll be charged based on your chosen subscription plan. So, be careful and cancel your subscription, helping you avoid being charged by this VPN.

How to Pick the Best Free Trial VPN?

To find the best VPN with a free trial that's aligned with all your needs, you need to know exactly what you'll get. So, here's how to narrow down your list of options:

• Device/Platform Support: VPNs cover a myriad of devices. However, when it comes to their trials, many VPNs limit you to their desktop apps. Pick a VPN based on the devices and platforms you use, as well as based on whether you're a desktop- or mobile-first user.
• Primary Set of Features: VPNs hide various types of personal data, as their main mission is to protect your privacy. So, make sure the basics are there. You'll want a VPN that creates a safe tunnel for your data. That means you'll need at least a couple of VPN protocols, secure VPN encryption, and a no-logs policy.
• Secondary Set of Features: Do you plan to use a VPN for streaming, gaming, or torrenting? Well, based on what you plan to use a VPN for, make sure your chosen VPN has optimized features. In that regard, some VPNs are more optimized for specific uses than others, so it really pays off to dive deep into their sets of features before signing up.
• Network Size & Distribution: An important point of differentiation between VPN services is the size of their server networks. You'll want a fast performance, which means you'll want nearby VPN servers at your disposal. However, you'll sometimes want to unblock websites, which means you'll need servers in a specific country. So, before you sign up for a VPN with a free trial, inspect the size and distribution of its server fleet.
• Money-Back Guarantees: Lastly, most VPNs offer money-back guarantees even after your trial ends. If you wish to play it safe, pick a VPN with a generous money-back policy, giving you some extra time to test-drive its features. That way, even if you change your mind once your trial ends, you'll still get to have your money back.

For more information, turn to our VPN Buyer's Guide, featuring plenty of useful information on how to pick a VPN aligned with all your needs.

VPN Free Trial vs. Money-Back Guarantee: Which One Should You Choose?

If you don't wish to pay for a VPN, taking advantage of its free trial is the way to go. Money-back guarantees are great, but they kick in once you pay for your chosen VPN.

Most VPN trials don't require your payment information. Instead, they require you to download its software only, or perhaps to register using your name and email. With that said, those VPN trials will deactivate once they expire - which means there's no way for you to be charged.

Of course, there are also VPN trials that ask for your payment information. Those VPNs will charge you once your trial ends, but not if you cancel your account/subscription on time.

When it comes to money-back guarantees, they kick in after you pay for your chosen VPN. In general, VPNs give you plenty of time to test-drive them, from 7 up to 45 days. During that period, you're free to ask for your money back, even if you paid for the VPN.

So, here's the bottom line. If you don't wish to pay from the get-go, go for a VPN trial. And if you have no problem with paying right from the start, pick a VPN with a money-back policy.

How Safe Are VPN Free Trials?

VPN trials are safe - for the most part. Keep in mind that there are many VPN scams out there (here's how to avoid the most common VPN scams), and some of those are related to fake VPN trial offers.

For example, fake VPNs might impersonate popular VPN brands, offering free trials. That's a classic scam, designed to collect your personal information, including your credit card details.

With that said, make sure to pick a reputable VPN to test out, and then make sure to sign up for a trial using that VPN's official and legitimate website.

Of course, we once again advise you to use the links found throughout this guide. We made sure to highlight truly the best VPNs with a free trial. On top of that, we've provided links to their sign-up pages, eliminating any risk of encountering a fake website.

Do Free VPN Trials Keep Logs & Track Your Activities?

VPNs typically have the same privacy policy for regular and trial accounts. Therefore, if you pick a no-logs VPN service for your trial, your personal data won't be collected.

That said, it all comes down to your chosen VPN's privacy policy and logging practices. Also, know that the best VPNs are designed to avoid having to collect any personally identifiable information, which means that no one will track your online activity.

We'd like to recommend reading our guide on how to verify no-logs VPN claims, especially if you want to use a VPN for privacy protection primarily.

Can I Sign Up for a VPN Free Trial Multiple Times?

No, you won't be able to sign up for a VPN free trial more than once. That's because VPNs employ systems that detect if you've used their trial before.

That's actually one of the reasons why VPNs ask for payment information before they give you access to their trial. Aside from charging you once your trial is up, that system allows VPNs to create a registry of those who have used their trial in the past.

Of course, many free trial VPNs won't ask for your payment information. However, they might ask for your email address, asking you to create an account. In theory, you can use those trials more than once, but only if you have access to multiple email addresses.

What Are the Limitations of a VPN Free Trial?

In some cases, VPNs with free trials might limit you to a specific device/platform. However, you won't find any other limitations, as you'll get unrestricted access.

More precisely, some VPNs allow you to test-drive their apps on desktop platforms (Windows and macOS). You'll still get full access to your chosen VPN - but on a single platform only.

In general, VPNs don't impose any limitations. That's because they want to present themselves in the best possible light, as the purpose of their trials is to persuade you to become a paying customer. So, you'll have full access to all their features, server networks, and more.

Do VPNs Ask For Your Personal Details When Signing Up for a Free Trial?

Most VPNs won't ask for your personal details when signing up for their trial. In fact, very few VPNs will do that, but those are mostly less secure VPNs that are not even worth trying.

That said, know that you'll most often need to create a free VPN trial account. That's done using your email address, so you don't even have to use your personal email.

When it comes to VPNs that ask for your payment information, that data is typically handled by third-party payment processors, which means that VPNs don't keep that data on their servers.

Will VPNs Charge You After the Free Trial Ends?

Yes, VPNs will charge your after your trial ends - but only if you provide your payment info. So, make sure to read the fine print before you sign up.

In general, VPN trials available on iOS and Android will almost always charge you once your trial ends. That's because of how Apple's App Store and Google's Play Store work.

Still, you can avoid that by canceling your subscription at least 24 hours before your trial expires.

How to Cancel a Free Trial VPN Before Auto-Renewal?

The process of canceling your VPN trial before it gets auto-renewed is based on how you signed up in the first place. Here's what you need to do:

• If You Signed Up Online: If you can access your account on the VPN's site, there should be an option to cancel your subscription and recurring billing. You can also contact your VPN's support team and ask them to cancel your trial and any upcoming charges.
• If You Signed Up on iOS: Go to Settings > Your Name > Subscription. Then, choose your VPN subscription and cancel it from there. Here's how to cancel subscriptions on iOS.
• If You Signed Up on Android: Go to Play Store > Profile Icon > Payments & Subscriptions > Subscriptions, and cancel your trial from there. Here's how to cancel subscriptions on Android.

Final Thoughts

You won't find too many VPNs with free trial offers - primarily because VPNs want to prevent people from misusing those offers (which has been happening before). That's why most VPNs offer money-back guarantees instead, which is also a good option to keep in mind.

That said, we recommend ExpressVPN's trial, as that's the best VPN free trial service right now, based on our hands-on tests. It's a highly capable VPN that caters to both beginners and advanced users, making us sure you'll love using it.

This is where we conclude our article on the best VPN with a free trial. We hope that you’ll find a VPN that’s aligned with your needs and that you’ll become a long-term VPN subscriber.