Did you know that nearly 1 in 4 internet users in the United States use a VPN service? They do this to protect their online privacy. As more people seek secure internet connections, finding the best VPN is key. In this review, I’ll check if Betternet VPN is a good choice for protecting your online privacy in 2025.
I’ll look at Betternet’s ownership, features, performance, pricing, usability, and privacy practices. With over 1,000 servers, Betternet promises a secure experience. But does it really deliver? Let’s dive into the important details that show if Betternet is a reliable VPN service.
Key Takeaways
- Offers over 1,000 servers in 80 countries.
- Supports 10 simultaneous connections on one account.
- Starting price for the premium plan is $7.99 per month.
- Has both a free plan and 45-day money-back guarantee for premium services.
- Average speed drop on nearby servers is around 50%.
- Collects IP addresses, raising privacy concerns.
Introduction to Betternet VPN
Betternet VPN has been around for a while, starting in 2015. It’s a free VPN service that helps keep your online activities private. You don’t need to sign up to use it for free, making it easy to stay anonymous online.
It has servers in over 115 countries, which means you can access more content securely. The free version lets you connect to 10 locations. But, if you pay for the premium, you get access to 80 locations.
Betternet VPN is easy to use, even if you’re new to VPNs. You can start using it with just one click. Plus, the premium version offers top-notch security with AES 256-bit encryption.
For more info on VPNs, check out this review of another well-known VPN. My experience with Betternet VPN shows it’s a solid choice for both free and paid users in the VPN market.
Ownership and Company Background
The Betternet VPN is owned by the Aura Group. This company is known for its work in cybersecurity. Aura Group also owns other VPN services, like HotSpot Shield. Knowing about the company is key to trusting a VPN service like Betternet.
Aura Group has grown a lot, making about $150 million a year. They grow by more than 40% each year. This growth shows they are doing well, but it also raises questions about their focus on profit over privacy.
Who owns a VPN can affect how it works and how much users trust it. There have been issues with data collection in some VPNs. This makes it important to check if Aura Group’s brands all follow the same privacy rules. Users should be aware of these connections and how they might affect their security.
Even though Aura Group seems solid, users should watch out for risks. There have been problems with VPNs in the past that show privacy can be a concern. It’s important to see how the Betternet VPN fits into these trends. Looking at other VPN options might also help.
Key Features of Betternet VPN
Understanding Betternet VPN’s key features is vital for strong internet security and safe browsing. This VPN software is easy to use and offers important security features. It protects your online activities well.
Security and Privacy
Betternet VPN focuses on keeping your data safe. It follows a no-logs policy, keeping your browsing history and data private. It uses 256-bit AES encryption, a top-notch security standard.
This encryption keeps your online communications safe from threats. It gives you peace of mind while you’re online.
Data Encryption and Protocols
The VPN software uses its own Hydra protocol. While it aims to improve performance and security, it lacks options like OpenVPN or WireGuard. This might be a drawback for users seeking more protocol choices.
Good data encryption is key for protecting your information online.
Kill Switch and Leak Protection
Betternet VPN includes a kill switch and leak protection. But, some tests have shown IP and DNS leaks. This means users should check their connections often.
A reliable kill switch prevents data leaks during unexpected disconnections. It adds an extra layer of security to your online activities.
Betternet VPN Performance
Looking into Betternet VPN’s performance shows us its strengths and weaknesses. It’s known for fast speeds on nearby servers. But, it faces challenges when connecting to far-off servers, affecting user experience. Here, I share my findings on its performance.
Speed and Reliability on Nearby Servers
Tests on nearby servers show Betternet VPN is quick. For example, a UK server gave me download speeds of about 17 Mbps. A US server gave me around 16 Mbps. These speeds mean users usually get a good experience with content from nearby locations.
But, there’s a catch. Speeds can drop by up to 50 percent for nearby connections. This might be a problem for those who use a lot of data.
Performance on Distant Servers
Distant servers show a different picture. Speeds can drop by over 60 percent, making it hard to use. Betternet says its Catapult Hydra protocol can make long-distance connections up to 2.4 times faster than OpenVPN. But, my tests didn’t always show this.
For example, HD videos took 5 to 7 seconds to load. This shows limits for those who love streaming. In short, Betternet is good in some cases but might not meet everyone’s needs.
Betternet VPN: Pricing and Subscription Plans
Betternet VPN offers both free and premium plans, giving users a range of options based on their needs. While the free version provides basic functionality, the premium plans add more features, better performance, and stronger security.
Free VPN Service Overview
Betternet’s free VPN lets users connect without paying, offering limited access to servers, basic protection, unlimited usage and 5 simeltanous connections. However, it comes with slower speeds, fewer location choices, and no advanced features like server switching or tracker blocking. For casual browsing, it works, but for heavy use, it may fall short.
Betternet VPN Paid Plans and Features
Betternet’s paid options are designed for users who want a faster, more private, and more flexible VPN experience. The monthly subscription costs $11.99, which is on the higher side. A better deal is the annual plan, where you pay $95.99 upfront — which breaks down to just $7.99 per month. Paid users unlock premium features like access to optimized servers, faster speeds, no ads, a built-in Tracker Blocker, and access to customer support.
All premium plans are backed by a 45-day money-back guarantee, giving users a safe way to test the service without long-term risk.
| Plan Type | Monthly Cost | Billed Annually |
|---|---|---|
| Free VPN | Free | Free |
| Paid Plan | $11.99 | $7.99/month |
Betternet VPN Usability
The Betternet VPN app is designed to be easy to use on many platforms. It offers a simple interface and a VPN download process. This makes using the app straightforward and efficient.
User-Friendly Interface
The Betternet VPN app’s design is user-focused. It lets you connect with just one click. The app is easy to navigate, perfect for both new and experienced users.
The layout is clean, making it easy to find all the features you need. This simplicity improves the overall user experience.
Device Compatibility and Support
Device support is key to a VPN’s usability. Betternet VPN works on Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS. You can connect up to ten devices at once, great for families or individuals.
But, it doesn’t work with Linux systems or smart TVs. This might limit some users. Despite this, many people can use the VPN app easily.
Streaming and Torrenting Capabilities
When checking out Betternet for streaming and torrenting, it’s key to see how it works with popular services. It should also keep P2P traffic safe. Betternet says it’s good for Netflix and Hulu, making it a strong choice for streaming.
Streaming Support for Popular Services
People looking for the best VPN for streaming want it to work with big names. Betternet lets users access many platforms, but results can vary. Some users have trouble getting content from Netflix, Hulu, and others.
While some streams work great, others might have problems like buffering.
P2P Traffic and Torrenting Safety
Betternet tries to meet the needs of users who torrent, but there are things to consider. Not all VPNs are safe for torrenting. Betternet’s privacy policies are important for those who torrent.
Many top VPNs like NordVPN and IPVanish focus on keeping torrenting safe. They use strong encryption and don’t keep logs. Betternet might not meet these standards. Options like ExpressVPN and Surfshark are better for safe torrenting.
Customer Support and Resources
Customer support is key when looking at VPN services like Betternet. They offer many VPN resources to help users solve problems and get the most out of their service. The FAQ section is a big help, answering basic questions.
Premium users get responsive email support for more complex issues. This is a big plus for those who need detailed help.
But, there are some downsides to Betternet’s support. Not having live chat can be a big problem for those who need quick help. Also, some of their help guides seem outdated, which can confuse users.
For a better look at VPN services, it’s smart to check out other options. For example, NordVPN is known for its excellent customer service.
Betternet VPN’s Privacy Policy
It’s important to understand Betternet VPN’s privacy policy if you care about your online security. I’ll explain their data collection and the legal issues they face in the United States. Choosing a VPN means you need to trust it, and being open is key to good protection.
Data Collection Practices
Betternet VPN collects data that raises privacy concerns. They log IP addresses, which can threaten your anonymity. Even though it’s free, their business model is based on ads, which might not align with a strict privacy policy.
Recently, I found out their Android app has tracking libraries. This could help with analytics or ads, hurting your privacy if you’re looking for protection.
Location and Legal Concerns
Betternet VPN is based in the U.S., which means they face legal issues. Being part of the 5/9/14 Eyes alliances adds to the risk of data requests from governments. This could force them to comply with court orders for data collection and surveillance.
It’s vital for users to understand these legal implications. If privacy is a big concern, these legal factors should influence your decision to use Betternet VPN.
Comparative Analysis with Competitors
In my analysis of Betternet against top VPN services, key factors stand out. With over 100 VPN providers globally, choosing can be tough. I looked at NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and ProtonVPN to highlight differences in features, cost, and performance.
NordVPN has over 7,150 servers in 118 countries and offers speeds over 800 Mbps. Betternet’s free version has been criticized for DNS or WebRTC leaks, risking user privacy. ExpressVPN is known for strong security and features, costing $4.99 a month. It focuses on privacy audits, ensuring no data is kept.
Here’s a detailed comparison of some notable features:
| VPN Provider | Servers | Pricing (2 year plan) | Simultaneous Connections | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | 7,150 in 118 countries | $3.39/month | 6 | Dedicated RAM-only servers, Threat Protection |
| ExpressVPN | 160 locations in 94 countries | $4.99/month | 5 | Security audits, no-logs policy |
| ProtonVPN | 6,500 in 112 countries | $4.49/month | 10 | High-speed servers, strong privacy policies |
| Private Internet Access | 35,000+ in multiple countries | $2.03/month (for 3 years) | 10 | No-logs, shared IP addresses |
| Mullvad VPN | 892 in 40 countries | €5/month | 5 | Anonymous accounts, private payments |
This analysis shows Betternet’s free version is not as good as top VPNs in performance and security. NordVPN and ExpressVPN offer speed, reliability, and privacy, making them leaders in the market.
Is Betternet VPN Worth Your Trust?
When we talk about Betternet VPN, we look at its security and privacy. The VPN world is full of choices, but not all put user safety first. So, it’s key to check how Betternet does in these areas.
Betternet, owned by AURA, is part of a bigger issue. Many VPNs, including Betternet, might collect data without telling you. This raises big questions about their role in keeping your online life private.
Betternet’s features need to be better than others, considering what happened to SuperVPN. A big data breach there showed how important it is to choose a VPN that really cares about your safety. Betternet has many features, but its trustworthiness is based on its past and how open it is about its practices.
In the end, deciding if Betternet is trustworthy depends on its commitment to your privacy and security. Users should think hard about their choices. They need to see if Betternet’s features match what they want for a safe online experience.
Conclusion
In this Betternet VPN review, I’ve looked at many aspects of the service. This includes its price, how well it works, and privacy issues. Betternet seems easy to use at first, but there are big problems.
Recently, it was found to have malware and track users. This is a big worry for anyone looking for a safe VPN. Also, it lacks a kill switch and has slow speeds at times.
Betternet offers a 45-day money-back guarantee and says it has a special protocol for faster speeds. But, its performance is not always good, and its privacy record is a concern. This makes Betternet a less safe choice compared to others like NordVPN or Surfshark.
My final thoughts are that users should think carefully before choosing a VPN in 2025. If you want to protect your online privacy, look for a more reliable VPN. Making an informed choice is key to keeping your online security safe.
FAQ
What is Betternet VPN?
Betternet VPN is a service that helps keep your online activities private. It’s free and easy to use, making it popular among many users.
How does Betternet protect my online privacy?
Betternet uses strong encryption and follows a no-logs policy. It also uses VPN protocols to keep your data safe while you’re online.
Is Betternet a reliable VPN service for security?
Betternet has some good security features. But, its history and ownership might make some users worry about privacy. It’s key to decide if it meets your privacy needs.
Does Betternet support streaming services?
Yes, Betternet works with popular streaming sites like Netflix and Hulu. This lets users watch content from other countries.
How does the performance of Betternet compare on nearby versus distant servers?
Betternet works well on nearby servers. But, it slows down a lot on distant servers. This might impact your streaming and browsing.
What are the pricing options for Betternet VPN?
Betternet has a free version and paid plans. The paid options come with a 45-day money-back guarantee.
Can I use Betternet VPN on multiple devices?
Yes, Betternet works on many devices like Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS. But, it’s not compatible with Linux or some smart TVs.
What customer support options does Betternet provide?
Betternet has FAQs and email support for premium users. But, it doesn’t offer live chat, which might limit help.
What should I know about Betternet’s privacy policy?
Betternet’s privacy policy might log your IP address. Being in the United States, it could face government scrutiny over user data.
How does Betternet compare to other VPN services?
Betternet might not be the best value compared to ExpressVPN and Private Internet Access. It could be less secure and less private for the price.
Is Betternet VPN a good choice for torrenting?
Betternet does support P2P traffic. But, its privacy policies might raise concerns for torrenting. It’s important to think about safety first.
Source Links
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