Research by CSIRO found 14 tracking libraries embedded in Betternet -- more than any other free VPN tested. We strongly recommend using Proton VPN Free or Windscribe Free instead.
Betternet Review 2026
Free VPN loaded with trackers
Betternet at a Glance
Betternet is a free, ad-supported VPN owned by Aura (the same company behind Hotspot Shield). A 2016 CSIRO study found 14 tracking libraries embedded in the app -- more than any other free VPN tested. This makes Betternet fundamentally incompatible with the purpose of a VPN.
The free tier is ad-supported with vague logging policies. The paid tier offers little that competitors don't do better. We cannot recommend Betternet for any use case.
We do not recommend this VPN for any use case. See the warning above for details.
Performance Scores
Privacy & Security
Pricing & Plans
Pros & Cons
- Free tier available
- 14 tracking libraries found
- Ad-supported model
- Vague logging policy
- US jurisdiction
- Owned by Aura (data analytics company)
- Tiny server network
Bottom Line
Do not use Betternet. CSIRO found 14 trackers -- more than any other free VPN. Use Proton VPN Free or Windscribe Free instead.
Builder, tinkerer, privacy advocate. I believe privacy is a right, not a product feature.