When you buy through affiliate links in our content, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn Getting the best VPN for torrenting is essential for ensuring your privacy and security when exchanging files online. Your IP is exposed to every user in the P2P network when you’re torrenting, so it’s good to take precautions.
A secure and reliable VPN service with strong security, fast download speeds, and P2P-friendly policies can help you remain safe online. By masking your IP address and encrypting your web traffic, a virtual private network provider ensures an anonymous torrenting experience. In this guide, we’ll explore the top torrenting VPN providers and their features, helping you find the best fit for secure torrenting.
Best Torrenting VPN at a Glance
- Surfshark – Best VPN for fast torrenting
- PureVPN – Best VPN for torrenting with port forwarding
- ExpressVPN – Best torrenting VPN with numerous P2P server locations
- NordVPN – Top security-focused torrenting VPN
- CyberGhost – Easy-to-use torrenting VPN for beginners
- PrivadoVPN – Best zero-logs VPN for torrenting with a SOCKS5 proxy
- Proton VPN – Top P2P-optimized servers and privacy combination with a free option
- VyprVPN – Privacy-focused torrenting VPN with Swiss jurisdiction
- Show Full Guide
Best VPN for Torrenting Reviewed
We thoroughly tested a wide range of VPN providers to find the best torrenting VPNs on the market today. We analyzed key features like security, privacy practices, including no-logs policies, support for P2P connections, server speeds for fast downloads, and prices to identify the best VPN for torrenting for various use cases.
1. Surfshark – Best VPN for Blazing-Fast Torrenting
| P2P servers | Yes |
|---|---|
| Server Network | 3,200+ servers in 100+ countries |
| Simultaneous Connections | Unlimited |
| Starting Price | $2.19/month |
Pros
- All servers support P2P traffic
- Prevents DNS leaks
- Blazing-fast speeds
- AES-256 encryption and kill switch features
- Camouflage Mod
Cons
- Based in a 14-Eyes alliance country
- No free plan
2. PureVPN – Top Torrenting VPN With Port Forwarding Functionality
| P2P servers | Yes |
|---|---|
| Server Network | 6,500+ servers in 65 countries |
| Simultaneous Connections | 10 |
| Starting Price | $3.99/month |
Pros
- Numerous P2P servers
- User-focused apps
- Always-on audit
- Affordable and flexible plans
Cons
- Port forwarding costs extra
- Mobile apps lack some features
3. ExpressVPN – Best Torrenting VPN Service With a Reliable P2P Server Network
| P2P servers | Yes |
|---|---|
| Server Network | 3,000+ servers in 105 countries |
| Simultaneous Connections | 8 |
| Starting Price | $6.67/month |
Pros
- AES-256 encryption and IP address protection
- P2P servers available
- Proprietary Lightway protocol
- Top-class security measures
Cons
- Premium VPN prices
- Limited free trials
4. NordVPN – Best Torrenting VPN With Top-Class Security Features
| P2P servers | Yes |
|---|---|
| Server Network | 6,400+ servers in 111 countries |
| Simultaneous Connections | 10 |
| Starting Price | $3.39/month |
Pros
- Specialized P2P servers
- Independently audited no-logs policy and kill switch
- Stops DNS and WebRTC leaks
- Fast speeds with NordLynx
Cons
- Slower speeds with farther servers
- Entry plan is fairly limited
5. CyberGhost – Best Beginner-Friendly Torrenting VPN With a Great Server Network
| P2P servers | Yes |
|---|---|
| Server Network | 11,500+ servers in 100 countries |
| Simultaneous Connections | 7 |
| Starting Price | $2.03/month |
Pros
- 10 P2P-optimized servers
- Functional kill switch
- Based in torrenting-friendly country
- Money return and free trial available
Cons
- Slower speeds than some competitors
- Lots of servers are virtual
6. PrivadoVPN – Best No-Logs VPN for Torrenting With SOCKS5 Proxy
| P2P servers | Yes |
|---|---|
| Server Network | 300+ servers in 49 countries |
| Simultaneous Connections | 10 |
| Starting Price | $1.99/month |
Pros
- All servers are P2P-friendly
- High-speed downloads
- SmartRoute split tunneling service
- Free version available
Cons
- Relatively small server network
- No third-party audit
7. Proton VPN – Top P2P-Optimized Servers and Privacy Combination With a Free Option
| P2P servers | Yes |
|---|---|
| Server Network | 5,100+ servers in 91 countries |
| Simultaneous Connections | 10 |
| Starting Price | $4.49/month |
Pros
- 140+ P2P-optimized servers
- Kill switch included
- VPN Accelerator
Cons
- Free tier doesn’t have torrenting capabilities
- Pricier than other top VPNs
8. VyprVPN – Best Privacy-Focused Torrent VPN Based in Switzerland
| P2P servers | Yes |
|---|---|
| Server Network | 700+ servers in 40 countries |
| Simultaneous Connections | 10 |
| Starting Price | $3/month |
Pros
- 700+ servers for reliable torrenting
- DNS leak protection
- 3-day free trial
Cons
- Small server fleet and server congestion reported by users
- Based in a 14-Eyes country
Best Torrent VPN Compared
We’ve compiled the stats on each one of our picks for the best torrenting VPN providers in a quick reference table:
| Surfshark | PureVPN | ExpressVPN | NordVPN | CyberGhost | PrivadoVPN | ProtonVPN | VyprVPN | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| P2P servers | Yes, all | Yes, 1,000+ | Yes, all | Yes, 5,183 | Yes, 10 | Yes, all | Yes, 140+ | Yes, all |
| Server Fleet | 3,200 servers in 100+ countries | 6,500+ servers in 65 countries | 3,000+ servers in 105 countries | 6,400+ servers in 111 countries | 11,500+ servers in 100 countries | 300+ servers in 49 countries | 5,100+ servers in 91 countries | 700+ servers in 40 countries |
| Simultaneous Connections | Unlimited | 10 | 8 | 10 | 7 | 10 | 10 | 10 |
| Split tunneling | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Free trial | 7 days | 7 days | 7 days for mobile devices | 7 days | 1 day on desktop, 3 days on Android, 7 days on iOS | Unlimited | Unlimited | 3 days for mobile devices |
| Starting Price | $2.19/month | $3.99/month | $6.67/month | $3.39/month | $2.03/month | $1.99/month | $4.49/month | $3/month |
How We Review and Test VPN Services
20 VPNS TESTED
25 DATA POINTS MEASURED
300+ HOURS TESTING
500+ USER REVIEWS READ
To provide our readers with accurate and well informed recommendations, we tested 20 leading VPN services to find the best in the market. Our methodology consists of the following criteria:
- Security Features: We made sure that the provider uses standard security features and a secure tunneling protocol.
- Privacy Policies: We looked for VPNs that come with a no-logs policy, and verify the extend to which user privacy is upheld.
- Speed: We run speed tests three times a day and draw an average of the result to see how much of the original broadband speed is retained.
- Compatibility: We ensure the VPN provider offers multiple simultaneous connections and is compatible with the most popular operating systems.
- Geo-unblocking: We test whether the VPN service can unlock different libraries (content available in different countries) on the most popular streaming platforms.
- Customer Experience: When researching products and services, we read real user experiences and test out their customer support channels ourselves.
- Price and Value for Money: We set out to recommend reasonably priced products that offer value for money.
Why Do You Need a VPN for Torrenting?
Torrenting is a technology for sharing files over the internet with users who are simultaneously uploading and downloading files. While it offers a convenient way to access various files, including movies, music, and software, it exposes your online activity in several ways. When you engage in torrenting, your IP address is visible to other users in the torrent community.
With your IP exposed, you could be targeted by bad actors or copyright trolls. Hackers might exploit vulnerabilities; copyright holders could even take legal action if you download copyrighted material. Secondly, internet service providers can throttle internet speeds if heavy bandwidth usage is suspected (like frequent torrenting).
Because of this, the use of a VPN is recommended when engaging in torrenting. It can:
- Conceal your IP address and encrypt your internet connection,
- VPN encrypts your online activities, making your torrenting traffic effectively anonymous,
- Bypass ISP throttling and ensure you get the most out of your internet connection.
This prevents anyone from tracing torrents back to your actual location or identity. VPNs can also bypass ISP throttling, giving you optimal torrent download speeds. This combination of anonymity and enhanced performance makes VPNs indispensable to anyone involved in P2P file sharing.
Is Torrenting Legal?
Yes, torrenting is legal when used to download or share files. However, downloading copyrighted material is not legal. The legality of torrenting hinges on the content you download, not the technology itself.
Torrenting is a file-sharing method that allows users to download pieces of a file from multiple computers simultaneously. Trouble arises when you download copyrighted content, such as movies, music, or software, without permission from the copyright holder. Distributing copyrighted material through torrents is also illegal.
Copyright laws differ around the world. In the US, UK, Australia, and most of Europe, downloading copyrighted content through torrents is illegal, and you may face fines, and torrent sites may be shut down. However, some countries, like Poland, Switzerland, and Spain, have more relaxed copyright laws, allowing people to download copyrighted material for personal use.
It’s worth remembering, as well, that you should be wary of malware infections when using services like BitTorrent.
Best VPN Server Locations for Torrenting
One of the many great things about a VPN is that you can virtually connect to almost any country around the globe. Choosing an optimal VPN location for torrenting sites involves balancing privacy, speed, and legal considerations. Here are a few of the best torrenting locations:
Switzerland – Known for its strong privacy laws and neutrality on copyright enforcement, Switzerland offers a secure haven for torrenting. Switzerland is not a member of the 14-Eyes alliance, so your data cannot be collected and shared internationally.
The Netherlands – This Dutch haven has a well-established P2P culture and a legal framework that doesn’t criminalize downloading copyrighted material for personal use. Plus, the Netherlands has excellent internet infrastructure, ensuring fast download speeds.
Romania – This Eastern European nation offers robust privacy protections and a relaxed stance on piracy and copyright enforcement. Additionally, Romania has a well-developed internet infrastructure, making it a good choice for speedy downloads.
Canada – Similar to the Netherlands, Canada doesn’t criminalize downloading copyrighted content for personal use (always double-check local laws). Canadian servers also typically offer good speeds and reliable connections.
Panama – This country also has excellent data protection laws. Users are required to agree to the collection of their data before accessing a page. You have the right to refuse to provide your data; all information must be stored securely.
How to Choose the Best VPN for P2P Torrenting
Choosing the best VPN for torrenting might be quite a task, as not all VPNs have the features required for torrenting. The main thing that a VPN has to have is peer-to-peer file sharing.
Here are some of the key factors to consider when choosing a torrent VPN, whether you’re looking at services from Private Internet Access VPN or Avast Secureline VPN:
P2P file sharing – The VPN must explicitly allow P2P file sharing. Not all VPNs do, so check their terms of service.
Top-class security – Prioritize strong encryption (AES-256 is ideal) to scramble your data and protect it from snooping.
Privacy features – Select a VPN with an (independently) verified no-logs policy. This assures that they do not monitor or store your torrenting activities.
Leak protection – A kill switch is essential. If the VPN connection drops, it automatically cuts off your internet traffic, preventing accidental data leaks.
Speedy downloads – Torrenting requires a large amount of bandwidth. Choose a VPN with a vast network of well-maintained servers to minimize sluggish downloads.
Unlimited bandwidth – Data limits can cause a torrent to stop downloading in the middle. Choose a VPN with unlimited bandwidth to ensure uninterrupted downloading.
Value for money – Check your budget and explore different plans and features. Choose a VPN that fits your budget and offers the best protection for the buck.
How to Torrent with a VPN
Surfshark keeps your identity under wraps by hiding your IP address, making it a secure choice when using popular torrenting software. Therefore, we’re going to guide you through how to torrent securely using this VPN:
Subscribe to Surfshark and Download the Software
Go to Surfshark’s site, sign up for a subscription, and navigate to the Download section. Choose the app installer for your operating system. Once downloaded, run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
Launch Surfshark and Connect to a Server
Open the Surfshark app and log in using your credentials. The app interface will display a list of VPN servers. You can find a P2P-optimized server by looking for P2P in Surfshark’s server locations menu.
Enable Essential Features
Navigate to Surfshark’s settings and ensure the Kill Switch feature is enabled. This will guarantee your internet connection is automatically cut if the VPN connection drops, preventing accidental leaks of your IP address.
Start Your Torrent Client
Open your preferred torrent client software, such as QBittorrent, BitTorrent, Transmission, Vuze, or uTorrent.
Find and Download Torrents
Use a reputable torrent search engine to find the files you want to download. Remember, always download legal content or content you have permission to access, and keep the VPN active at all times.
Is a Free VPN Good for Torrenting?
While free VPNs might seem like a good idea for torrenting, they come with hidden costs that could outweigh any initial savings. Here’s why you should think twice before using a free VPN:
- Data caps and slow speeds – Many free VPNs have data caps, leaving you stranded mid-download. Plus, crowded servers can lead to sluggish download speeds, making your torrenting extra slow.
- Security issues – Some free VPNs use weak encryption or even log your activity, potentially exposing you to bad actors.
- Malware risk – Free VPNs can be a great risk for malware. They can plant ads in your browser or even install malicious software on your device.
- Limited server options – Free VPNs typically offer just a few servers, so finding a good connection with decent speeds is difficult.
- Limited support – When you encounter issues with a free VPN, customer support might be limited to none.
However, a few free VPNs might allow torrenting, but they likely come with the abovementioned limitations. For safe and secure torrenting, try the free options of Surfshak, ExpressVPN, or other premium services.
Conclusion – What is the Best Torrenting VPN?
Torrenting without a VPN is risky, as it introduces a wide range of threats – from malware infections to data theft and legal dangers.
To help you mitigate these risks, I looked for a VPN that offers industry-leading security, a proven no-logs claim, and solid speeds for smooth P2P file-sharing. With these factors in mind, I rate Surfshark as the best VPN for torrenting.
It offers military-grade encryption and an independently verified no-logs policy to keep your activity and identity hidden. On top of that, you get advanced security features, like obfuscation and MultiHop connections. In addition, its status as one of the fastest VPNs on the market makes it a great all-arounder for torrenting.
