When it comes to VPNs, there are two main options out there: paid-for and free.

This is where free VPNs like TunnelBear, WIndscribe, and AtlasVPN come in.

But out of these three providers, which is best?

blue lock graphic on laptop on desk

Image Credit: Mike MacKenzie/Flickr

Like TunnelBear, Windscribe’s free VPN servicealso uses AES-256 encryption.

With AtlasVPN’s free plan, you could encrypt your internet traffic using AES-256 and ChaCha20-Poly1305.

AtlasVPN also has two protocols on offer: WireGuard and IPSec/IKEv2.

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This is a big plus in terms of security and privacy.

When using TunnelBear’s free VPN, you’ll luckily have access to a long list of locations.

In fact, TunnelBear’s free plan gives users access to servers in almost 50 countries.

woman with head in hands sitting in front of laptop

Next up, there’s Windscribe.

This VPN provider’s free plan gives you access to 11 server locations, which is adequate for most.

Lastly, there’s AtlasVPN.

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Unfortunately, this service’s free plan is very limited in terms of server choice.

This can be a very restrictive factor if you want to access websites and content from various countries.

When it comes to TunnelBear, the main limitation is your monthly data allowance.

This is a very strict limit, and won’t suit most internet users.

Windscribe, on the other hand, offers you two options.

Let’s start with TunnelBear.

Using Windscribe, the download speed fell from 68.24 Mbps to 57.84 Mbps.

This is still a drop, but not as severe as that experienced when connected to a TunnelBear server.

Between the three providers, we found that AtlasVPN had the least effect on connection speeds.

TunnelBear vs. Windscribe vs. AtlasVPN: Which Should You Choose?

Between TunnelBear, Windscribe, and AtlasVPN, the best option depends on how you surf the web.

It’s clear that each free VPN service has its own perks and drawbacks.

Overall, all three free VPN plans have similar restrictions, particularly in data caps and server choice.

This is commonplace for free VPN services, with unlimited data allowances and servers usually being premium-only luxuries.