Opera's 'VPN' is a browser proxy only — it does not protect apps, torrents, or anything outside the browser. Opera was acquired by a Chinese consortium in 2016.
Opera VPN Review 2026
Last Updated: February 15, 2026
Free browser-only proxy, not a real VPN
ServersN/A
Countries5
DevicesUnlimited (browser)
ProtocolsProprietary
JurisdictionNorway/China
FromFree
// OVERVIEW
Opera VPN at a Glance
Opera's built-in 'VPN' is technically a proxy that only encrypts browser traffic. It doesn't protect apps or your full device. The Chinese majority ownership since 2016 raises serious privacy questions.
// NOT RECOMMENDED
We do not recommend this VPN for any use case. See the warning above for details.
// PERFORMANCE
Performance Scores
Privacy
3.5
Security
4.3
Speed
5.0
Streaming
3.0
Features
3.5
Value
4.0
// PRIVACY
Privacy & Security
Browser-only proxy
Does NOT encrypt all traffic
Chinese majority ownership
Jurisdiction: Norway/China
// PRICING
Pricing & Plans
// SUMMARY
Pros & Cons
> WHAT WE LIKED
- Free
- One-click in browser
> WHAT COULD IMPROVE
- Not a real VPN — browser proxy only
- Chinese consortium ownership since 2016
- Only 5 regions
- No app protection
// VERDICT
Bottom Line
For a real free VPN, use Proton VPN or Windscribe instead.
ChrisFounder & Lead Analyst
Builder, tinkerer, privacy advocate. I believe privacy is a right, not a product feature.