5 Best No-Log VPNs in 2023: Be Anonymous

Most VPNs claim that they follow a no-logs policy. However, not many VPNs can actually prove their no-logs claims, and some even do the opposite by creating vulnerabilities that exploit your privacy. So, the question is – how do you pick a trustworthy VPN that sticks to its zero-log policy? Are there VPNs that actually refuse to log your data?

Well, keep in mind that even zero-log VPNs collect some data as a way to provide analytics and troubleshooting. However, the best no-log VPN providers collect anonymous data only, which means that even the VPN you use won’t see what you do online. So, a VPN that doesn’t keep logs will still collect something, but nothing that can be tied to your account.

As you can see, finding the best no-log VPN requires you to dive deep into their privacy policies, which is a tedious and time-consuming process. You’ll be happy to know that we did the hard work for you, and we’re ready to present the most trustworthy and independently audited VPNs that stick to their zero-log policies.

In this guide, we’ll list the best no-logs VPNs and show you how to use one. Then, we’ll explain what it means if a VPN doesn’t keep logs and what kind of VPN logs exist. Finally, we’ll provide some useful FAQs as well.

Best No-Log VPNs – Our Shortlist

1. ExpressVPN – Our #1-Rated Best No-Log VPN in 2023
2. NordVPN – Best Anonymous VPN with No Logs
3. CyberGhost VPN – Best for Privacy + Media Streaming
4. Private Internet Access – Best for Advanced Users
5. Surfshark – Best for Ease of Use & Affordability

How to Get a No-Log VPN

To get a no-log VPN, you first need to subscribe to a suitable VPN and then download and install its app. You can then start connecting to servers. Do the following:

1. Get a VPN with a genuine no-logs policy (we recommend ExpressVPN).
2. Download and install the VPN app on your device(s).
3. Open the app and reach its home screen by logging in.
4. Pick any VPN server and initialize your VPN session.
5. You can now return to your regular Web activities. That’s it!

The Best No-Log VPNs in 2023

To ensure we provide only the best options available, we first set out to discover what makes the best VPN that features a no-logs policy. That said, the most important thing is for the VPN to offer a verified/audited no-logs policy. It must also come from a jurisdiction free of data retention laws and away from the 5/9/15 Eyes Alliance.

Then, the best no-log VPN must collect minimal and anonymized logs, and it should also offer a wide server network with RAM-only and obfuscated servers. The absence of hard drives in data centers means that your VPN can’t physically store your data. That goes hand-in-hand with strong protocols (OpenVPN, WireGuard) and encryption (AES-256, ChaCha20).

Let’s not forget that you need enough simultaneous connections as well as support for all your devices through native software. There should also be a generous money-back policy, which means you’ll be investing in a VPN risk-free. Lastly, the best zero-log VPN must also offer 24/7 live chat support, letting you resolve any issue in no time.

Based on the criteria explained above, here are the 5 best no-log VPNs in 2023:

1. ExpressVPN – Our #1-Rated Best No-Log VPN in 2023

ExpressVPN is the best no-log VPN available in today’s global market, featuring an audited no-log policy that’s been reviewed many times in the past. It’s headquartered in the British Virgin Islands, which means it’s away from the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance, and it’s not subject to any mandatory data retention laws.

This is a true no-logs VPN, as it will never collect your IP address, browsing history, DNS queries, or traffic destination. That means even ExpressVPN won’t know what you do online. And if a third party comes for your data, the VPN won’t have anything to hand over. That said, usage statistics and diagnostic data are collected, but in an anonymized form.

You’ll also get 3,000+ servers in 90+ countries. All those servers are RAM-only (no hard drives used in data centers), and they’re all obfuscated. In terms of your privacy protection, this VPN uses OpenVPN and Lightway, paired with AES-256 encryption. So, you can rest assured that your private data can never be intercepted by any third party.

ExpressVPN gives you 8 simultaneous connections (on 6- and 12-month plans), and it works on practically any device imaginable. There are 30-day money-back guarantees, in addition to 24/7 live chat support, which is just one of the many support channels this VPN brings.

2. NordVPN – Best Anonymous VPN with No Logs

NordVPN is among the most private VPN providers as it’s built from the ground up to avoid logging any of your sensitive data. It’s based in Panama, which is a privacy-friendly jurisdiction, away from the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance. On top of that, NordVPN goes through regular audits, proving that its apps, infrastructure, and privacy policy respect your privacy.

This VPN guarantees a strict no-logs policy. In other words, no matter what you do online, that information will never reach NordVPN’s servers. It does collect some basic statistical and connectivity information, which is either anonymized or deleted after each session. That data is needed for NordVPN to provide its services and perform troubleshooting.

This no-logs VPN provides you with 5,500+ servers in 60 countries. It doesn’t have the widest server network out there, but all those servers are RAM-based. There’s obfuscation on board as well, available through a group of specialized servers. Also, protocols like OpenVPN (AES-256) and WireGuard (ChaCha20) are taking great care of your privacy.

Let’s not forget that NordVPN gives you 6 simultaneous connections. There are also nicely designed apps for computers, phones, streaming devices, routers, and more. You’ll also reserve your right to change your mind within 30 days, as per the VPN’s money-back policy. Finally, 24/7 live chat is there, as you’d expect from a capable VPN with a no-logs policy.

3. CyberGhost VPN – Best for Privacy + Media Streaming

CyberGhost is a Romania-based VPN provider known for its transparency. This is a zero-log VPN with a recently done audit, which was focused on the VPN’s infrastructure and privacy policy. It’s away from the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance, and your data is governed by the EU’s GDPR rules, which is what allows CyberGhost to maintain its no-log policy.

As per its privacy policy, this VPN doesn’t store your connection logs, payment information, browsing history, data content, or anything else related to your privacy. It logs non-personal data only (statistical information), needed for CyberGhost’s apps to operate. That information is never tied to your account in any way or form.

Another great thing about CyberGhost is its server network, as it offers 9,000+ servers in 90+ countries. Those are RAM-only servers, but they don’t provide obfuscation. That means we don’t recommend CyberGhost for those in overly strict countries where censorship is involved. On the other hand, you’ll get OpenVPN and WireGuard, guaranteeing your privacy.

You can count on up to 7 simultaneous connections with this VPN. There are also very simple-to-use apps for a huge range of platforms and devices. Another benefit is CyberGhost’s 45-day money-back policy, applicable to long-term plans. Lastly, 24/7 live chat customer support is on board as well.

4. Private Internet Access – Best for Advanced Users

Private Internet Access is a somewhat peculiar VPN provider. That’s because it’s based in the United States, which is one of the founding members of the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance. However, this is one of the rare VPNs to have proven its no-logs policy in court – twice. So, it’s among the most private VPNs out there, without a doubt.

PIA has a very strict no-logs policy. It doesn’t log your browsing history, IP, timestamps, DNS queries, or any other personally identifiable information. It only logs anonymized overall parameters needed for the service to function. On top of that, this is a recently audited VPN with open-source software, which is a rare thing to see these days.

You’ll get thousands of servers in 80+ countries, as well as RAM-only servers with optional obfuscation. There are protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard, in addition to adjustable encryption. You can fine-tune just about anything related to PIA, which makes it an amazing pick for more experienced VPN users.

PIA gives you unlimited simultaneous connections. There are also polished applications for computers, phones, tablets, routers, and more. To prove that it has nothing to hide, this zero-log VPN offers a 30-day money-back policy. And should you ever need help, you can count on PIA’s 24/7 live chat support.

5. Surfshark – Best for Ease of Use & Affordability

Surfshark is one of the most trustworthy VPN brands, headquartered in the Netherlands. That makes it part of the EU, known for its strong data protection laws. Aside from that, this VPN was never afraid to go through regular audits, providing full access to third-party auditors. So, when it comes to data logging, there’s nothing to be worried about here.

Like other recommendations in this guide, Surfshark collects only anonymized statistics and analytics needed for the VPN service to operate. It also collects basic logs about your VPN session, but that data is deleted once your session ends. All of that is nicely explained in the VPN’s privacy policy, which is quite user-friendly.

With Surfshark, you get access to 3,200+ servers in 100 countries. These are RAM-only servers, and you can also use obfuscation. Aside from that, you get OpenVPN (AES-256) and WireGuard (ChaCha20), anti-tracking tools, ad-blocking, and plenty more. This one’s among the most private VPNs, handling your sensitive information with plenty of care.

You’ll also get unlimited simultaneous connections in addition to modern-looking apps for a vast range of devices and platforms. Also, let’s not forget to mention Surfshark’s 30-day money-back policy, which comes with no questions asked. And, of course, 24/7 live chat support is available as well.

Why Do You Need a VPN That Doesn’t Keep Logs?

You need a no-log VPN to preserve your privacy and ensure no one tracks you online, not even your VPN. Here’s more information on what a zero-log VPN can do:

• Hide What You Do Online: The best no-log VPN will encrypt your data, hiding your online activities. Not even your Internet provider will get to see what you do online.
• Hide Your IP Address: When you connect to a VPN server, your device will get a new IP, which means you’ll hide your existing IP and, thus, hide your location online.
• Visit Geo-Blocked Websites: With a foreign IP address, you’ll get to visit the websites available in that specific territory, which means you’ll bypass geo-blocks.
• Bypass Censorship: If you’re in a country with heavy censorship, a no-logs VPN with obfuscation will allow you to visit restricted websites without anyone knowing.
• Bypass School/Office Restrictions: If you can’t browse your favorite websites while at school or work, an anonymous VPN will lift those restrictions with no issues.
• Secure Torrent Downloads: When torrenting, it’s crucial to use a zero-log VPN, as you’ll want to avoid receiving copyright infringement notices and paying hefty fines.
• Bypass Bandwidth Throttling: If your Internet provider throttles your connection when streaming, downloading, or gaming, a VPN will prevent that from happening.
• Connect Safely on Public Wi-Fi: With an active VPN session, even highly un-secure public Wi-Fi networks become safe to use, with no risk of data logging.
• Browse Home Sites When Traveling: A VPN server from your country home will allow you to use your favorite sites, streaming platforms, or banking apps when abroad.
• Get a Better Gaming Experience: A zero-log VPN can also help you minimize ping and latency, so you’ll get high-end privacy and an enjoyable gaming experience.
• Save Money When Shopping Online: Since VPNs prevent e-commerce trackers from doing their job, you’ll make sure you’re seeing the lowest prices only.

How to Choose the Best No-Log VPN?

To choose the best no-log VPN, first ensure that no data is logged, done by checking for independent audits. You then need to check the VPN’s jurisdiction, server information, privacy and security features, and more. Let’s explain:

• Audited No-Log Policy: The best way to ensure you’re getting a no-logs VPN is to check for independent audits. Those documents should be available publicly.
• Favorable Jurisdiction: Go for a VPN outside the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance. The best no-log VPN should come from a country without mandatory data retention laws.
• Minimal Data Logging: There’s no VPN that collects zero data. That said, pick a VPN that logs anonymized information only related to statistics and analytics.
• Sizable Server Fleet: The best way to ensure smooth and stable performance is to pick a zero-log VPN that has thousands of servers in as many countries as possible.
• RAM-Only Servers: Aside from audits, RAM-only servers are the best way to ensure that your VPN won’t log your information (as hard drives are not used).
• Privacy & Security Features: Never use anything less than OpenVPN and WireGuard, which are the best VPN protocols for privacy. Also, pay attention to encryption.
• Simultaneous Connections: Most VPNs allow 5 to 8 simultaneous connections, so make sure to know how many devices you’ll need to cover in your household.
• Supported Devices: Avoid VPNs that ask for manual configuration. Instead, pick one that has native apps for your computer, phone, tablet, streaming device, and more.
• Money-Back Guarantees: Buying a VPN subscription doesn’t have to be a risky purchase. The best no-log VPN should give you at least 30 days to ask for a refund.
• Customer Support: We hope you won’t encounter any issues with your VPN. However, you’ll want to have access to 24/7 live chat support in case of a problem.

What Is a Zero-Log VPN?

A zero-log VPN is a VPN service that doesn’t collect any personally identifiable information. That means we’re talking about a VPN that doesn’t know what you do online.

However, keep in mind that zero-log VPNs are quite rare. Most VPNs collect some information, and that can even include your IP address and your Web browsing history, which beats the purpose of using a VPN in the first place.

That said, even the best VPN for anonymity will still collect something – analytics and statistics needed for those VPNs to operate and provide their services. However, those types of data are anonymized and never tied to your VPN account in any way or form.

Types of VPN Logs

There are three distinctive types of VPN logs: activity logs, connection logs, and personally identifiable logs. Let’s give you more information about each.

• Activity Logs: If your VPN collects activity logs, it means that you’re being followed on the Web. Activity logs can include anything from your Web browsing history and Web search history up to the logs that reveal what you stream, read, and download. Most free VPNs keep activity logs, which they later sell to advertising agencies.
• Connection Logs: In most cases, VPNs keep connection logs. That can include information about your IP address, connection timestamps, the amount of data you consumed, and more. Zero-log VPNs keep this at a minimum and collect only statistical and analytical data, never associating them with your VPN account.
• Personally Identifiable Logs: VPNs typically don’t collect personally identifiable logs, but related third-party services do. For example, when buying a VPN subscription, you’ll need to fill out your personal information, email address, and your payment information. All that data is typically stored by a third-party payment processor. That’s why many VPNs also allow you to pay via crypto, so you can skip providing even your basic info.

Which Free VPNs Have a No-Log Policy?

There are no free VPNs that have a true no-logs policy. That’s because free VPNs earn money by exploiting your privacy and collecting your sensitive information. In other words, there’s no such thing as a free no-log VPN.

More precisely, free VPNs know what you do online. They can see your browsing history, the files that you downloaded, and what you read, streamed, or played online. That information is highly important to marketing agencies, willing to pay a lot of money.

On top of that, free VPNs come with limited bandwidth and performance, and they typically have only a handful of servers. That will make your Web browsing experience quite limited and restricted. Free VPNs are simply not worth the hassle.

We’ll remind you that even when it comes to premium VPNs, very few of them are no-log VPNs with an audit to prove their claims. So, do your research carefully, and pick the best VPN that won’t break your trust. You can even get a free trial, ensuring you’ll get what you need.

Final Thoughts

By now, you’re aware that most no-log VPNs are not what they appear to be. However, with a little bit of effort, you’ll manage to find a zero-log VPN whose primary focus is the privacy and security of its subscribers. Those VPNs simply refuse to collect any data other than what’s absolutely required for their services to function.

In the end, we’ll remind you that our #1 recommendation is ExpressVPN, the best no-log VPN provider in 2023. It collects no personally identifiable information while managing to provide top-shelf service. It’s great for privacy protection and allows you to do more on the Web without exposing your sensitive information.

That’s all for our list of the best no-log VPN services. If you have any questions, let us know via the comments section below. Thank you for reading!