If you’re in Russia and want to access blocked websites and apps, using a quality VPN is essential. With the country’s internet becoming increasingly restricted, it’s more important than ever to protect your online privacy and security. In this article, we’ll provide you with a list of the seven best VPNs for Russia based on speed, security, and unblocking ability.
A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, encrypts all traffic to and from your device and routes it through an intermediary server, making it difficult for surveillance agencies and hackers to track your online behavior. VPNs can also be used by bloggers and social media activists to post online anonymously. In addition to protecting your privacy, a VPN can help you regain access to your usual streaming services and home sites while you travel. In the following paragraphs, we’ll provide more details on the best VPNs for Russia.
How We Selected the Top VPNs for Russia
If you’re looking for a VPN to use in Russia, it’s important to choose one that can bypass the country’s strict internet censorship laws. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve put together a list of the best VPNs for Russia based on several key factors.
First and foremost, we considered the speed and stability of each VPN’s service. After all, there’s no point in using a VPN if it slows down your internet connection to a crawl. We also looked for VPNs with a large network of servers around the world, including some in countries close to Russia. This not only ensures a faster connection but also makes it easier to access geo-restricted content.
Another important factor was the VPN’s ability to access popular streaming services such as Netflix. We made sure to test each VPN to ensure it could bypass geo-restrictions on these sites.
To maintain privacy and anonymity, we only included VPNs with strong encryption parameters. We also looked for VPNs that were easy to use, with intuitive interfaces that even beginners could navigate.
In addition, we made sure that each VPN on our list could unlock geo-restricted content without any problems and was suitable for torrenting. Finally, we only included VPNs that had apps for both Android and iOS, ensuring that you can use them on all your devices.
It’s worth noting that some VPN providers have removed their servers from Russia after the country demanded that they link their servers to the state censorship agency. However, you can still use these VPNs to connect to a server outside of Russia and bypass censorship. For those looking for VPNs with servers in Russia, we recommend checking out our posts on how to get a Russian IP address and the best VPNs with Russian servers.
Overall, by considering these key factors, we were able to select the top VPNs for Russia that offer fast, reliable, and secure connections.
Best VPNs for Russia: at a glance
Here are the top VPNs for Russia based on important features:
- NordVPN: Our #1 choice for Russia. Read our in-depth review.
- ExpressVPN: Fast speeds and excellent security.
- CyberGhost: User-friendly interface and affordable pricing.
- Surfshark: Unlimited simultaneous connections and strong privacy features.
- Private Internet Access: Extensive server network and customizable settings.
The Best VPNs for Russia
If you’re looking for a VPN to use while in Russia, here are some top options to consider:
- NordVPN: With over 5,000 servers worldwide, NordVPN offers fast and reliable connections. It also has strong security features, including military-grade encryption and a no-logs policy.
- ExpressVPN: Known for its speed and ease of use, ExpressVPN has servers in over 90 countries. It also offers excellent security features, such as a kill switch and split tunneling.
- Surfshark: A relatively new VPN, Surfshark has quickly gained a reputation for its strong security and privacy features. It also offers unlimited simultaneous connections, making it a great option for families or small businesses.
No matter which VPN you choose, make sure it has strong encryption, a no-logs policy, and a wide range of servers to choose from.
1. NordVPN
NordVPN Speed Test Data
When we tested NordVPN’s connection speed in North America (USA), the average speed was 268 Mbps. In Europe (UK), the average connection speed was 174 Mbps, while in Asia (Hong Kong), the average connection speed was 147 Mbps.
Pros:
- NordVPN has extremely fast and reliable servers, making it great for HD streaming.
- With over 5,500 servers in 60+ countries, NordVPN operates one of the largest server networks in the industry.
- NordVPN has excellent streaming potential, allowing you to access popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer.
- NordVPN uses strong encryption and a strict no-logs policy to ensure top-notch security and privacy.
- The app automatically protects your Wi-Fi connection, making it great for on-the-go security.
- NordVPN offers live chat support to assist you with manual configurations.
Cons:
- The desktop app is a bit dated.
Overall, NordVPN is our top choice for a Russia VPN. It has been in the business for over a decade and offers powerful features packed into an intuitive app. NordVPN’s obfuscated servers are designed to beat government censorship, making it a great choice for users in Russia. During our extensive testing, both speeds and privacy were excellent. NordVPN abides by a rigorous no-logs policy, which means it retains absolutely no information about user sessions, traffic, or timestamps. This policy has served to be a boon for people who value privacy.
NordVPN operates one of the larger server networks we’ve seen, with over 5,500 servers in 60 countries, including several of Russia’s neighboring countries. The service works with many online streaming services, including Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. It allows torrenting. It’s one of the fastest VPNs we’ve tested, so you can stream and make video calls in high quality without buffering.
Encryption standards are tight. All traffic is secured via the 256-bit AES protocol by default and uses 2,048-bit SSL keys. DNS leak protection is enabled. Your privacy and anonymity are pretty much assured.
NordVPN is available on Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, and Android. You can install it on select routers via manual configuration. With NordVPN, you can use up to 6 devices at once with great connection speeds. It’s risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Surfshark
Surfshark Speed Test Data
Surfshark is a budget-friendly VPN provider that offers fast speeds for most purposes. In our speed tests, we found that Surfshark’s average download speed was 70 Mbps, which is more than enough for HD live streaming and torrenting.
Pros:
- Connect as many devices as you like
- Fast enough for HD live-streaming
- Wide range of security features and a no-logs policy
- Accepts three kinds of cryptocurrency
- 24/7 Live chat available
Surfshark’s unlimited simultaneous connections policy is a standout feature, making it perfect for families or anyone looking to secure multiple devices at once. Additionally, Surfshark offers a wide range of security features, including a kill switch, protection against WebRTC, DNS, and IPv6 leaks, automatic ad-blocking and malware scanning, and 256-bit encryption. The NoBorders feature also allows you to bypass strict country-wide blocking.
Surfshark doesn’t log any personally identifiable information, and you can pay in cryptocurrency for additional privacy. Customer support is available 24/7 via live chat or email.
Cons:
- Certain features require Surfshark One, which costs extra
One downside of Surfshark is that certain features, such as HackLock and BlindSearch, require a Surfshark One subscription, which costs extra.
Overall, Surfshark is an excellent budget option for anyone looking to browse safely in Russia. It offers fast speeds, unlimited simultaneous connections, and a wide range of security features, all while keeping no logs and offering a 30-day money-back guarantee.
3. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN Speed Test Data
ExpressVPN offers a fast and reliable network of over 3,000 servers in more than 100 countries, including Russia. In our speed tests, we found that ExpressVPN consistently delivered impressive speeds, making it a great choice for streaming and downloading.
Pros:
- ExpressVPN’s large server network ensures that you can always find a fast and stable connection, regardless of your location.
- With high-grade encryption and a strict no-logs policy, ExpressVPN ensures that your online activities remain private and secure.
- ExpressVPN works seamlessly with all major streaming services, including Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+.
- The VPN also supports torrents on all servers, making it a great choice for P2P file sharing.
Cons:
- ExpressVPN is slightly more expensive than some other VPN providers, although you can use a discount coupon to save money on your subscription.
- The lack of advanced configuration options may be a drawback for advanced users.
Overall, ExpressVPN is a great choice for anyone looking for a fast, reliable, and secure VPN. With its large server network, high-grade encryption, and seamless compatibility with all major streaming services, ExpressVPN is sure to meet all your VPN needs.
4. CyberGhost
CyberGhost Speed Test Data
When it comes to speed, CyberGhost offers impressive performance. During our tests, we found that the VPN provided fast and stable connections. We tested the VPN on various servers across different countries and found that CyberGhost consistently delivered good speeds.
Pros:
- CyberGhost offers over 10,000 servers in 100+ countries, including 60+ virtual servers in Russia. This means you can get a Russian IP address without worrying about data retention laws.
- The VPN provider has a strict no-logs policy, and it is headquartered in Romania, which means it is not required by law to store data.
- CyberGhost uses strong encryption standards, including 256-bit encryption on the WireGuard protocol, automatic tracker blocking, and leak protection.
- The VPN comes with an internet kill switch, which ensures that your data is protected even if the VPN connection drops.
- CyberGhost allows torrenting on all servers except those in the USA, Singapore, Australia, and Hong Kong.
- CyberGhost offers a 45-day money-back guarantee.
Cons:
- CyberGhost does not work in China.
- The VPN is better suited for beginners than power users.
Overall, CyberGhost is a great VPN option for those looking for a fast and reliable connection with an easy-to-use interface. With its vast server network and strict no-logs policy, CyberGhost is a solid choice for anyone looking for a VPN that prioritizes privacy and security.
5. IPVanish
IPVanish Speed Test Data
IPVanish is a VPN service that offers high-speed connections, security, and privacy. In our testing, we found that IPVanish provides excellent speeds, with an average connection speed of 252 Mbps in North America (USA), 228 Mbps in Europe (UK), and 352 Mbps in Asia (Hong Kong).
Pros:
- IPVanish is a completely logless service, meaning that it won’t compromise your privacy.
- During testing, IPVanish achieved impressive 4K streaming speeds.
- IPVanish works well with remote control devices like Kodi.
- The service allows unlimited connections simultaneously.
Cons:
- Customer support can be slow.
- IPVanish is based in the US.
IPVanish offers apps for PC, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux. The service emphasizes speed, security, and privacy, and is a recommended option for users looking to download torrents and maintain the highest privacy settings.
Encryption parameters are unflinching, with IPVanish leveraging 256-bit encryption on the WireGuard protocol by default, with perfect forward secrecy. The latter feature means that even if hackers break into your account, they won’t be able to decrypt past session data. An internet kill switch is included with all packages, ensuring that you never accidentally browse the web unprotected.
The service offers over 2,000 servers spread across around 60 countries. While there isn’t an option for Russia at the moment, there are plentiful servers in former Soviet republics such as Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Latvia, Estonia, and Bulgaria.
IPVanish doesn’t work reliably with some streaming services, but it does permit torrenting on all servers. Many users find it an excellent option for Kodi because it allows them to download the Android APK directly to their device. The interface is also remote control friendly for Kodi devices that lack a keyboard and mouse.
Overall, IPVanish is a reliable VPN service that provides excellent speeds and strong security and privacy features. The service is easy-to-use, lightweight, and offers good multi-platform support. With a 30-day money-back guarantee, it’s definitely worth considering for your VPN needs.
6. Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access Speed Test Data
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a VPN that offers fast and secure internet connections. The VPN has implemented WireGuard, which has improved its speed. PIA has servers in over 80 countries, including several neighboring Russia, such as Ukraine, Finland, and Alaska. According to our speed tests conducted in January 2024, PIA’s average download speed is 95.4 Mbps, and its average upload speed is 57.2 Mbps.
Pros:
- Vast server network in 80+ countries, including several neighboring Russia
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- 24/7 customer support
PIA’s server network is vast, with servers in over 80 countries, including several neighboring Russia. It also allows unlimited simultaneous connections, which means you can use the VPN on multiple devices at the same time. PIA offers 24/7 customer support via live chat and email.
Cons:
- Based in the US
- Struggles with some streaming platforms
PIA is based in the US, which may be a concern for some users due to the country’s surveillance laws. Additionally, PIA struggles with some streaming platforms, which may be a downside for users who wish to access geo-restricted content.
Overall, Private Internet Access is a reliable VPN that offers fast and secure internet connections. Its vast server network, unlimited simultaneous connections, and 24/7 customer support make it a popular choice among users. However, its US-based location and struggles with some streaming platforms may be a concern for some users.
7. Hotspot Shield
Pros:
- Hotspot Shield has a large network of server locations, including Russia, making it a great option for browsing safely in the country.
- This VPN provider offers very fast speeds for streaming HD content, which is ideal for users who want to access popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video.
- Hotspot Shield uses strong encryption and other security features, providing users with an added layer of protection while browsing the internet.
Cons:
- In the past, Hotspot Shield has faced criticism for its logging policy, which may be a concern for some users.
- Hotspot Shield does not accept cryptocurrency payments, which may be a drawback for users who prefer to pay anonymously.
Hotspot Shield is a VPN provider owned by Pango, Comparitech’s parent company. The provider has made significant improvements to its logging policy, now only logging encrypted IP addresses during a VPN session but deleting them immediately afterward. Hotspot Shield offers robust security features, including strong encryption, leak protection, a desktop kill switch, and automatic Wi-Fi protection in the mobile apps.
One of the best things about Hotspot Shield is its superior speeds, making it an excellent choice for downloading large files. The provider uses shared IP addresses and imposes no bandwidth limit, allowing users to securely access plenty of popular streaming services. Hotspot Shield has servers in 80+ locations, including Russia and neighboring countries.
Hotspot Shield offers apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. With a generous 45-day money-back guarantee, users can always test the service out to see if it’s a good fit.
In conclusion, Hotspot Shield is a reliable VPN provider with a large network of server locations, fast speeds, and robust security features. While the provider has faced criticism in the past for its logging policy, it has made significant improvements. Hotspot Shield’s inability to accept cryptocurrency payments may be a drawback for some users, but overall, it’s an excellent choice for users who want to browse safely and access popular streaming services.
Finding the Best VPNs for Russia: Our Methodology
When it comes to finding the best VPNs for Russia, it can be challenging to determine which VPNs are reliable and offer the privacy and security features you need. To help you make an informed decision, we have used a carefully constructed scientific method to test and rank the VPNs we recommend.
Here are some of the most important features we looked for when testing VPNs for Russia:
Reliable Servers
To access restricted content in Russia and use the internet with privacy and added freedom, you need a VPN with plenty of servers around the globe. We have pinpointed services with fast servers capable of HD streaming and torrenting. We looked for servers in Russia to let you use local services from abroad and servers elsewhere for ultimate flexibility.
Apps for All Platforms
A useful Russian VPN must-have apps for all popular devices. This ensures that the VPN is versatile and can be used to gain privacy and online accessibility, whether at home, at work, or when using public Wi-Fi. We have recommended VPNs with apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. We also recommended VPNs that let you use the VPN on multiple devices simultaneously.
DNS Leak Protection
We tested each VPN to check that it does not suffer from IP or DNS leaks. We also checked for dedicated IPv4 and IPv6 leak protection to ensure that your browsing requests will always be safely proxied to prevent your ISP or the government from snooping on you.
Military-Grade Encryption
The tunnel that is established between your device and the VPN server must be highly secure to stop it from being penetrated by eavesdroppers such as government snoops. We have recommended top-tier services that provide secure VPN protocols with strong AES-256 encryption.
Outstanding Accessibility
Not all VPNs have servers that work to access popular international services. We tested our VPNs for Russia to ensure that they can access multiple Netflix regions, iPlayer, Hulu, and apps and content that the government has censored, including apps like Telegram.
Live Chat Support
We have recommended VPNs that provide plenty of useful guides and FAQs on their website. Our recommendations also provide email and live chat support to let you get help with setting up and using the VPN.
By using our methodology, we have been able to provide you with a comprehensive list of the best VPNs for Russia. We hope that this guide helps you choose a reliable VPN that meets your needs and provides you with the online privacy and security you require.
How to Use a VPN in Russia
If you want to browse the internet safely in Russia, using a VPN is highly recommended. Here’s how you can set up and use a VPN in Russia:
- First, choose a VPN service that suits your needs. We recommend NordVPN, which has servers in over 60 countries and offers strong encryption to protect your online activity.
- Once you’ve chosen a VPN service, register and pay for the plan that best fits your needs.
- Download the companion app or software for your device. NordVPN offers apps for both Android and iOS devices, as well as software for Windows and macOS.
- Before connecting to the VPN, clear your cookies and cache in all web browsers to remove old location identifiers.
- Restart your device to ensure that all changes take effect.
- Open the VPN app or software and log in with your account details.
- Select a server in the location of your choice. If you want to access content that is only available in the US, for example, choose a server in the US to gain a US IP address.
- Wait a few seconds for the connection to be established. Once connected, you should see a green notification icon in the taskbar or on the top of your smartphone screen.
- Browse the web as you normally would. Host websites will assume your location is in the country you’re connected to, giving you access to previously unavailable content.
By following these simple steps, you can use a VPN in Russia to browse the internet safely and securely.
The Future of Internet Freedom in Russia
The internet freedom in Russia has been under threat due to the implementation of new legislative amendments known as ‘Yarovaya’s Law’. This law undermines the security of encrypted communications and increases government access to user data. As a result, the digital landscape of Russia is considered “not free” by internet advocacy body Freedom House.
The Russian administration has been using vague and broad language in the bill to target social media users who incite or justify terrorism online. Such users face a maximum sentence of a 7-year jail term. This has led to a clampdown on online freedom, which is seen as a direct attempt by Russian President Vladimir Putin to consolidate his authority.
The government filters content critical of its actions in Crimea and involvement in the Ukrainian conflict, with independent news outlets facing legal and economic pressures from the Kremlin. The situation has become so bad that ordinary Russian citizens are unaware of what constitutes free speech and what doesn’t.
According to Human Rights Watch, Russian intervention on the web has been a major policy of the state since 2012. The internet is now viewed as the only medium where there was a significant degree of opposition to the ruling party’s policies and one that needs to be brought under control.
It is unlikely that the Russian internet landscape will be headed for a greater degree of freedom anytime soon. Authorities have continued to use new legislation to restrict access to content related to radical Islam, conflict with Ukraine, or any form of organized political opposition. The state-run media outlets continue to spew out biased reporting, particularly when it comes to regional conflicts.
In conclusion, the future of internet freedom in Russia seems bleak. The government’s efforts to control the web and silence opposition are likely to continue, with little hope for change in the near future.
Should You Use a Free VPN for Russia?
While it may be tempting to use a free VPN for Russia, it is not recommended. Free VPNs are often not secure and can compromise your online privacy. They often monetize by displaying invasive advertisements, inserting tracking cookies, and selling your data to advertisers. Some may even use your device’s bandwidth to create a botnet army.
In addition, free VPNs often have limited bandwidth and data caps, and may offer a limited selection of servers. Finding a free VPN with Russian servers is almost impossible.
Instead, it is recommended to use a reputable VPN provider that offers a free trial or a money-back guarantee. This is a suitable option if you are unsure about committing to a VPN completely. However, it is important to avoid random free VPNs found on the internet. When it comes to a Russia VPN, it is better to be safe than sorry.
In summary, while free VPNs may seem like an attractive option, they often come with significant risks and limitations. It is recommended to choose a reputable VPN provider that offers a free trial or money-back guarantee for a better and more secure browsing experience.
How to Blog Anonymously in Russia
If you’re a blogger in Russia, you might be concerned about the government’s efforts to silence voices of dissent. However, there are steps you can take to protect your privacy and continue to blog anonymously. Here are some best practices to follow:
- Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to hide your IP address and encrypt your internet traffic.
- Use Tor, a free browser that masks your IP address and makes it difficult for anyone to track your online activity.
- Use a pseudonym or anonymous identity to protect your real identity.
- Avoid using social media platforms that require real names or personal information.
- Use encrypted messaging apps, such as Signal or Telegram, to communicate with sources and other activists.
- Be cautious when accessing public Wi-Fi networks, as they can be vulnerable to hacking and surveillance.
Remember, there are no guarantees of complete anonymity, but by following these steps, you can minimize your digital footprint and protect your privacy to a sufficient degree.
Are VPNs legal in Russia?
VPNs are not technically illegal in Russia, but they must be state-approved and licensed by the government. If a VPN service is not on the government’s approved list, it may be subject to blocks in the country. Furthermore, the Kremlin is investigating several VPN services for allegedly facilitating criminal activities that are harmful to national security.
It is important to note that this information is not legal advice, and it is recommended that you consult local laws or seek professional advice before attempting to use a foreign VPN in Russia.
What sites and apps have been blocked in Russia since the conflict with Ukraine?
Since the start of the conflict with Ukraine, the Russian government has ramped up its internet censorship efforts. Negative discussions about the war have been officially deemed illegal, and individuals who speak out against it have been detained.
As a result, several popular apps and websites have been blocked in Russia, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, BBC News, Deutsche Welle, Amnesty International, Radio Free Liberty, Voice of America, Bellingcat, Euronews, and most Ukrainian news sites. In addition, several foreign currency and cryptocurrency exchanges have also been blocked.
According to reports, over 500 domains have been added to Russia’s registry of blocked sites since the start of the conflict. However, it is still possible to access these sites privately using one of the recommended VPNs.
Are there any VPNs with Russian servers?
If you’re looking for a VPN that has servers in Russia, there are still a few options available. However, due to recent legislation, it’s important to be cautious when selecting a VPN provider.
Several major VPN services have shut down their Russian servers to prevent the government from accessing personally identifiable data. However, there are still some VPNs that operate in Russia, such as VyprVPN and Hotspot Shield.
To ensure your safety, it’s recommended to choose a VPN that uses RAM-based servers that wipe clean upon reboot and doesn’t log any data that could lead back to you. CyberGhost is a great option as it offers virtual servers that can get you a Russian IP address without actually being in the country.
It’s important to note that using a VPN in Russia comes with risks, and you should always do your research before selecting a provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Top-Rated VPN Services for Use in Russia?
When it comes to using a VPN in Russia, it’s important to choose a provider that offers reliable and secure connections. Some of the top-rated VPN services for use in Russia include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and CyberGhost VPN. These providers offer strong encryption, a large number of servers, and fast connection speeds.
Which Free VPNs Offer Reliable Servers in Russia?
While there are many free VPNs available, it’s important to choose one that offers reliable servers in Russia. Some free VPNs that offer servers in Russia include Windscribe, ProtonVPN, and TunnelBear. However, it’s important to keep in mind that free VPNs may not offer the same level of security and privacy as paid VPNs.
How Can I Ensure My VPN Is Effective for Accessing Content in Russia?
To ensure that your VPN is effective for accessing content in Russia, it’s important to choose a provider that offers servers in Russia and has a strong track record of bypassing geo-restrictions. Additionally, make sure to select a VPN that offers strong encryption and a no-logs policy to protect your online privacy.
What Features Should I Look for in a VPN for Secure Browsing on iOS Devices in Russia?
When selecting a VPN for secure browsing on iOS devices in Russia, look for a provider that offers a dedicated iOS app, strong encryption, and a no-logs policy. Additionally, make sure that the VPN offers servers in Russia and has a fast and reliable connection.
Are There Any VPNs That Consistently Work in Russia for Android Users?
Some VPNs that consistently work in Russia for Android users include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and CyberGhost VPN. These providers offer strong encryption, a large number of servers, and fast connection speeds, making them ideal for use on Android devices.
What VPN Solutions Are Recommended for PC Users Needing Access to Russian Content?
For PC users needing access to Russian content, it’s important to choose a VPN that offers servers in Russia and has a strong track record of bypassing geo-restrictions. Some of the top VPN solutions for PC users include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and CyberGhost VPN. These providers offer strong encryption, a large number of servers, and fast connection speeds, making them ideal for accessing content in Russia.