5 Best VPNs with Split Tunneling in 2024

There are many reasons why you'd want to send only a portion of your data through a VPN. Instead of encrypting your entire incoming and outgoing traffic, you could set only certain applications (like your torrent client, for example) to use your VPN connection. Similarly, you might want to set your banking app to use your local IP, as VPN connections might cause issues.

That's where split tunneling comes into play. With split tunneling, you can create a VPN tunnel for your sensitive data alongside another tunnel for your regular data. That's how you'll decide which apps, sites, and devices should or shouldn't use your VPN, allowing you to fine-tune the level of security that your sensitive data is put through.

This article will provide an in-depth look at the 5 best VPNs with split tunneling. We will guide you on how to use VPN split tunneling effectively, why you need a VPN that supports this feature, as well as how to pick the best one. Lastly, we’ll also answer some FAQs and much more.

Best VPNs with Split Tunneling - Our Shortlist

1. NordVPN – Our #1-Rated Best VPN with Split Tunneling in 2024
2. Surfshark – Exceptionally Secure Split Tunneling VPN
3. ExpressVPN – Highly Secure VPN That Supports Split Tunneling
4. CyberGhost – VPN with Efficient Split Tunneling Feature
5. PIA – Ultra-Powerful VPN with Unparalleled Fine-Tuning

How to Enable Split Tunneling on a VPN?

To enable split tunning on a VPN, you need to sign up for a VPN that supports that feature. Then, you can enable split tunneling in the VPN app's settings. Use the following steps:

1. Sign up for a VPN that supports split tunneling (we recommend NordVPN).
2. Download and install your chosen VPN application on your device(s).
3. Log in to the VPN by entering your account credentials.
4. Visit the application's settings (there should be a gear-like icon in most cases).
   
5. Look for a section that contains split tunneling-related options.
   
6. You'll be asked to enable split tunneling and add specific applications to the list.
   
7. That’s it! Now, you can enjoy strategic, selective browsing via split tunneling!

Be careful when adding applications to your split tunneling list. Keep in mind that some VPNs allow you to add applications that will use your VPN data tunnel, while others might ask you to add applications that will use your regular data tunnel. There should be a clear notification, though.

The Best VPNs with Split Tunneling in 2024

When seeking the best split tunneling VPN, you should adhere to the criteria that make up the best VPN providers overall, with specific support for split tunneling. First, look for a provider with split tunneling support on different devices. Next, make sure it has a large server network covering many countries. High connection speeds and reliable performance are also essential. 

To ensure privacy, opt for a VPN with a no-logs policy, robust AES-256 encryption, strong protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN, and obfuscation alongside an integrated kill switch. You'll also want support for media streaming (including the ability to bypass geo-blocks), as well as multiple simultaneous connections and support for different devices, like laptops and smartphones, which are necessary, too.

Moreover, make sure you're getting a good price and plenty of value overall. To make your purchase risk-free, you'll want a generous money-back guarantee. Lastly, 24/7 live chat customer support will give you peace of mind in the long run.

Given the above criteria, here are the 5 best VPNs with split tunneling in 2024:

1. NordVPN – Our #1-Rated Best VPN with Split Tunneling in 2024

NordVPN is the best VPN with split tunneling, supporting 3 types of split tunneling on Windows 8.1 and later, Android, as well as Android TV. You can choose between inverse (all supported platforms), app-based (Windows), or URL-based tunneling, which is for Web browser extensions and controlling VPN use for specific websites.

With 6,000+ servers across 60+ countries, NordVPN delivers exceptional performance across all its nearby and remote servers. It prioritizes privacy by maintaining a no-logs policy and employing robust protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, and NordLynx. You can also expect high-end encryption ciphers, such as AES-256 and ChaCha20.

Plus, you’ll get obfuscated servers that mask VPN traffic (across most of its servers) and a kill switch to minimize any split tunneling risks. Let's not forget to mention that NordVPN is a stellar VPN for media streaming. It gives you access to a huge range of platforms, like Netflix, Hulu, (HBO) Max, Paramount+, YouTube TV, and countless more.

This VPN allows up to 6 simultaneous connections and works on devices like computers, smartphones, routers, and smart TVs. You can get started for $3.39/month for its 2-year subscription plan, and you’ll get a 30-day money-back guarantee as well. There's also access to 24/7 live chat, so you'll get to resolve any technical issue in no time.

2. Surfshark – Exceptionally Secure Split Tunneling VPN

Surfshark is an ultra-powerful split tunneling VPN with 3 types of split tunneling on Windows and Android. Its “Bypasser” feature offers inverse, URL-based, and app-based split tunneling. Inverse tunneling allows all traffic to use the VPN except for specific apps. URL-based tunneling works on a site-specific basis, and app-based tunneling enables chosen apps to be excluded from the VPN. 

With 3,200+ servers across 100 countries, Surfshark offers incredible performance. It's one of the rare VPNs to offer equally fast connections to nearby and remote servers. There's also a strict no-logs policy that ensures your data is protected. It uses OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2 protocols for secure connections, and the advanced AES-256 encryption also boosts your security.

Moreover, this VPN offers obfuscated servers for bypassing restrictive networks and a kill switch to prevent data leaks and eliminate split tunneling security risks. Aside from that, you can count on bypass geo-blocks. Based on our tests, it works with Netflix, Hulu, iPlayer, Prime Video, Sling TV, YouTube TV, and plenty more.

Users can enjoy unlimited simultaneous connections on computers, tablets, smartphones, routers, and more. You can even use split tunneling on a router. All that is available for $2.29/month (2-year subscription plan). Finally, this provider offers a 30-day money-back guarantee and 24/7 customer support for your convenience.

3. ExpressVPN – Highly Secure VPN That Supports Split Tunneling

ExpressVPN is a secure VPN that supports split tunneling via 3 methods on Windows, Android, macOS (not including version 11 or older), and routers. You can protect all your traffic except for certain app exclusions, or alternatively, you can protect only selected traffic. It also offers router split tunneling by sorting connections into Device Groups.

With 3,000+ servers in 100+ countries, ExpressVPN excels with its reliable performance and blazing-fast speeds, delivering a smooth user experience. Also, it prioritizes your digital privacy with its strict no-logs policy (audited many times in the past) and VPN protocols like OpenVPN, Lightway, and IKEv2/IPsec - with AES-256 encryption for protection.

You’ll also get access to automatic obfuscated servers that hide your VPN usage altogether. Plus, it offers a kill switch to protect your data in the event of a VPN connection drop. Let's not forget to mention that ExpressVPN excels in bypassing geo-blocks. There's no streaming service this VPN can't unblock, including various Netflix libraries, Hulu, Prime Video, Max, and more.

ExpressVPN allows up to 8 simultaneous connections on devices such as computers, phones, routers, and smart TVs, to name a few. It's priced at $6.67/month (annual plan), and you’ll be protected by a 30-day money-back guarantee in case you don’t like the services and want to request a refund. Lastly, 24/7 customer support is available via live chat for troubleshooting and queries.

4. CyberGhost – VPN with Efficient Split Tunneling Feature

CyberGhost is a reliable alternative that offers 2 split tunneling methods on Android and Windows. Its main functionality is on Android, where you can decide which apps route their data through the VPN tunnel. On Windows, split tunneling is limited to preventing certain websites from using VPN protection. 

With 11,500+ servers across 100 countries, CyberGhost delivers solid speeds and stable performance. Moreover, it employs IKEv2/IPsec, WireGuard, and OpenVPN protocols, encrypting your data with AES 256-bit and ChaCha20 encryption. Also, CyberGhost adheres to a strict no-logs policy (audited just recently) to ensure your digital privacy.

Although CyberGhost does not offer obfuscation, you'll get a kill switch that cuts the Internet if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly. So, no data leaks will ever happen. Aside from that, you can use this VPN's specialized streaming servers to bypass geo-blocks on Netflix, Hulu, iPlayer, and Max, as well as dozens more US-based and international streaming apps.

It allows up to 7 simultaneous connections on devices like desktops, smartphones, and tablets. You can get started for only $2.03/month for its 2-year plan. Furthermore, it offers a 45-day money-back guarantee and provides customer support via 24/7 live chat, ensuring a satisfactory user experience.

5. PIA – Ultra-Powerful VPN with Unparalleled Fine-Tuning

Private Internet Access supports 2 types of split tunneling on Android, Windows, Linux, and macOS (11.0 and earlier). It offers both standard and inverse split tunneling, and you can split your traffic based on specific applications or IPs. Notably, it also provides rare split tunneling for Windows Store apps and Linux. Allowlisting on browser extensions is available, too.

With thousands of servers spread across 90+ countries, PIA offers consistent performance. However, some fine-tuning will be required to get the best results. Also, PIA adheres to a strict no-logs policy, ensuring your data isn't stored or shared. It uses OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols for robust security, along with military-grade AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption.

You can also expect obfuscated servers and a kill switch to disconnect your Internet if your connection fails for whatever reason. If you're interested in bypassing geo-blocks and streaming, know that PIA supports Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, and iPlayer - focusing on the most popular platforms.

This VPN allows unlimited simultaneous connections and supports laptops, desktops, tablets, phones, and more. It costs only $2.19/month for its 2-year subscription. Lastly, PIA offers a 30-day money-back guarantee and has a 24/7 live chat support team ready to assist you.

Best Split Tunneling VPNs - Compared

Why Do You Need a Split Tunneling VPN?

You need a split tunneling VPN because it gives you the flexibility to choose which apps should use the VPN and which apps should bypass it. This selective routing can increase connection speed and reduce bandwidth usage while maintaining a high-security level. Other reasons why you need a VPN with split tunneling include the following:

• Controlled Traffic Routing – With the best VPN for split tunneling, you can decide which part of your traffic is sent through the VPN and which part is sent directly over the Internet. This gives you more control over your online activities.
• Optimized Speed and Bandwidth Use – VPNs often slow down your baseline Internet speed due to the extra layer of security. Split tunneling reduces this issue by allowing non-sensitive traffic to bypass the VPN. This cuts down on your bandwidth usage and increases your connection speeds.
• Enhanced Accessibility for Local Services – By activating split tunneling, you can access services that require local IP addresses, such as online banking or streaming platforms, while simultaneously enjoying activities that need a server connection in a different region.
• Convenience for Remote Work – Split tunneling allows remote workers to access company resources through the VPN while connecting to local devices like printers at the same time.
• Access to Region-Specific Services – When you want to access region-specific resources or services, such as an international streaming service library, split tunneling can come in handy. You can stay connected to the Internet with your local IP for all your standard activities while funneling only your streaming traffic through the VPN.
• Secure and Uninterrupted Gaming – For gamers, split tunneling can be advantageous. It allows game traffic to bypass the VPN for reduced ping and faster speeds while other traffic remains protected by the VPN.
• Improved Application Performance – Certain applications and software might not function optimally when routed through a VPN. With split tunneling, these applications can be set to access the Internet directly, ensuring their performance is not hindered by the VPN’s encryption process.

How to Choose the Best VPN with Split Tunneling?

To choose the best VPN with split tunneling, ensure there's comprehensive support for split tunneling across all platforms, a sizable server network, and robust security features. Here's everything you need to keep in mind:

• Split Tunneling Support: The best split tunneling VPN should allow you to enable and fine-tune this feature on any platform, including Windows, Linux, and Android. Split tunneling on iOS and macOS is difficult to find due to those operating system's restrictions.
• Server Network Size: You'll want access to a sizable server network, giving you plenty of options to fine-tune your connection's performance as well as bypass geo-blocks.
• Performance and Speed: Don't let your VPN slow you down. Even though any VPN will decrease your speed, the best ones will slow you down by only 10-15%, which isn't much.
• No-Logs Policy: A VPN with an audited no-logs policy won't collect or log your sensitive data. So, even your VPN won't know what you do online.
• VPN Protocols and Encryption: We recommend picking a VPN with OpenVPN or WireGuard, which should be paired with encryption ciphers such as AES-256 or ChaCha20.
• Obfuscated Servers: If you need an extra layer of privacy, pick a VPN with obfuscated servers, as that's how you'll use smaller data packets that can evade anti-VPN systems.
• Kill Switch: A kill switch is an essential VPN feature that shuts down your Internet connection if anything happens with your VPN session, preventing data leaks along the way.
• Simultaneous Connections and Supported Devices: Ensure you get enough simultaneous connections for all your devices, as well as native software across the board.
• Pricing: Even a high-quality VPN shouldn't cost much, especially if you get a long-term plan, as that's how you'll save the most in the long run.
• Money-Back Guarantees: The best way to ensure a risk-free purchase is to get a VPN with a generous money-back policy. In most cases, you'll have 30 days to change your mind.
• Customer Support: A VPN with 24/7 live chat support will let you resolve any technical issue in no time. Also, look for installation guides and other types of tutorials.

Can You Use a Free VPN with Split Tunneling?

Yes, you can use a free VPN service with split tunneling, though it's not recommended for several reasons. First, split tunneling is rarely available in free VPNs. It's usually a premium feature found in subscription-based VPNs. 

Free VPNs often struggle to bypass geographical restrictions, which can limit your access to content. They can significantly reduce your Internet speed, leading to a frustrating user experience. Also, free VPNs often lack reliability and consistency, leading to unstable connections due to overloaded servers.

Many free VPNs also lack robust encryption, exposing users to potential cyber threats. Furthermore, some free VPNs force users to view ads or track and sell user data to marketing companies, violating the primary purpose of a VPN: to protect online privacy.

Opting for a premium paid VPN is recommended for enhanced privacy and security. Even better, you can get a free VPN trial to experience how a powerful VPN should work. For example, NordVPN's free trial can be started on Android and lasts for 7 days. This VPN also has a 30-day money-back policy that applies to all its supported devices.

Once you've gone through a couple of trials, you can make up your mind by checking our guide to the best VPN providers, which we created based on our hands-on tests.

Final Thoughts

In our digital age, Internet users often face hurdles such as working using remote networks, restricted access to global and local content, and VPN bandwidth limitations. These issues, combined with the potential for unwarranted traffic monitoring, can impede the full enjoyment of online freedom. Using a split tunneling VPN can be a viable solution.

We recommend NordVPN as the best VPN with split tunneling, as it offers minimal lagging, reliable connectivity, and navigates geo-restrictions with ease. Its split tunneling capabilities enhance your digital security while ensuring a smooth online experience, making it the perfect tool for tackling the challenges of the modern digital landscape.

That’s all for our guide on the best VPNs with split tunneling. If you have any questions, please leave a comment below. Thank you for reading!