7 Best VPNs for Tor Browser in 2023 (For Complete Anonymity)

Tor and VPN services are similar in a way that they have protection features that make it hard for anyone to snoop on your online activities. And, while they have some likenesses, they have one fundamental difference. VPNs are used to obtain online privacy. Tor’s main purpose is to guarantee browsing anonymity.

While these two aspects might sound the same at first, there’s a big distinction between online privacy and online anonymity, especially when discussing two tools like Tor and VPNs. So, with all of this in mind, should you use a VPN for Tor?

Tor VPN Key Points

• A VPN is crucial for ensuring maximum privacy when using the Tor browser.
• You can combine Tor and a VPN in two different configurations. Your privacy is affected by how you choose.
• NordVPN is the best all-around VPN for Tor.

Using a VPN with Tor is entirely safe and is a great way to add an extra layer of privacy and security to your network when using Tor. A VPN for Tor lets you hide your Tor usage from anyone spying on you, even your ISP. But, to make this true, it’s key to pick a trusted VPN that can work with Tor without issues.

Best VPNs For Tor in 2023 – shortlist:

1. NordVPN – Best VPN for Tor browser.
2. Surfshark – Fast with unlimited connections.
3. Atlas VPN – Great all-around Tor browser VPN.
4. PrivateVPN – Solid service excellent for casual users.
5. ExpressVPN – Robust and superb for Tor.

Why You Should Use VPN with Tor Browser

Improved Online Security and Privacy

Using a VPN with the Tor browser encrypts your connection and hides your actual IP address. This added layer of security makes it significantly more challenging to identify Tor users.

Whether you opt for Tor over VPN or vice versa, a VPN ensures the protection of your connection. When using Tor over VPN, neither the entry node nor the exit node can see your real IP address. This provides a secure browsing experience free from potential eavesdroppers.

Access Tor From Anywhere Without Restrictions

Using a VPN in a country that restricts or disapproves of Tor usage can easily unblock it. Nations like China, Russia, Saudi Arabia, and Iran banned the use of Tor.

In such locations, merely downloading the Tor browser can draw suspicion and government attention. To circumvent this, it’s advisable to install and configure the VPN first, and then proceed to use Tor.

Additionally, even in countries where Tor is allowed, you may encounter Tor node blocks. Many Tor exit nodes are publicly accessible and subject to blocking. By connecting to a VPN server, you can outsmart firewall restrictions. You can also bypass the blocks implemented by your Internet Service Provider.

Best VPNs for Tor Browser – detailed list:

1. NordVPN

NordVPN is the best VPN for Tor and anonymous browsing. With over 5,400 servers and private DNS on each server helps ensure anonymity and security.

Security: Features include a kill switch, malware protection, VPN obfuscation, and split tunneling. NordVPN offers a Double VPN feature for routing your traffic through two VPN servers. With NordVPN, secure your digital info even more easily.

Privacy: NordVPN with its Onion Over VPN feature allows seamless integration with Tor. Based in Panama, NordVPN has a strict no-logs policy which was verified by a third-party audit. Moreover, cryptocurrency payments offer an extra layer of anonymity. Its server runs on RAM so it does not store any data on hard drives.

Performance: Equipped with NordLynx protocol, NordVPN stands out in providing faster service. This is crucial for using the Tor Browser as the Tor network is slow. Its speeds reach 248.7 Mbps download and 126.7 Mbps upload in the United States.

Other features: NordVPN has you covered whether you need to use P2P or hide torrenting from your ISP. It also efficiently unblocks streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu.

Pricing: Subscriptions range from a $12.99 monthly plan to a cheaper $5.49 for the 2-year Commitment plan. Plus, customers have a 30-day money-back guarantee to ensure satisfaction.

Plan	1-year plan	1-month plan	2-year plan
Standard Plan	$4.99/month	$12.99/month	–
Plus Plan	$5.99/month	$13.99/month	–
Complete Plan	$6.99/month	$14.99/month	$5.49/month

2. Surfshark

Surfshark for Tor Browser suits due to its security, privacy, performance, and pricing. It is really one of the best Tor VPNs for a steady and secure browsing experience.

Security: Surfshark has AES-256-GCM encryption with protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, and WireGuard. The extra features are MultiHop (Double VPN), and CleanWeb. The latter blocks ads, trackers, malware, and phishing attempts for online safety.

Privacy: Surfshark has a strict no-logs policy and offers IP Masking so nobody can track you. DNS privacy is ensured on each server, with an automated kill switch for extra safety.

Performance: Surfshark guarantees high-speed connections. Test results came at a download speed of 235 Mbps and an upload speed of 219 Mbps in the United States.

Other features: Surfshark can unblock Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video with its Smart DNS service. It is P2P friendly with servers optimized for torrenting. This makes Surfshark an ideal choice for streaming and torrenting enthusiasts.

Pricing: Surfshark is very affordable. Plans start at $2.30/month for a 2-year subscription and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Surfshark is competitive with its budget-friendly pricing and high-value features.

Surfshark Plans	2-year price	1-year price	1-month price
Starter	$2.30/month	$3.99/month	$12.95/month
Surfshark One	$3.22/month	$4.49/month	$17.95/month
Surfshark One+	$5.99/month	$8.29/month	$22.95/month

3. Atlas VPN

AtlasVPN with its robust security and a free version another good VPN choice for Tor.

Security: AtlasVPN endorses a high level of security. It employs industry-standard AES-256 encryption and a system-wide kill switch. Features like the WireGuard protocol add speed and stable connections. The Double VPN with MultiHop+ creates multilayered encryption for your internet traffic. Besides, AtlasVPN has a ‘SafeSwap’ feature that rotates IP addresses for extra anonymity.

Privacy: No-logs policy and data breach monitoring are perfect while browsing. On a premium version, you can use ad-blocker, malware-protection, and tracker blocker.

Performance: AtlasVPN guarantees fast connectivity. It has download speeds reaching 183 Mbps in the US.

Other features: For entertainment enthusiasts, AtlasVPN can unblock Netflix and other geo-restricted content. It also supports P2P file sharing, enhancing its usability for diverse online activities.

Pricing: Offering a cost-effective solution, AtlasVPN maintains competitive pricing. Its 2-year plan starts at $1.82/month. It extends a 30-day money-back guarantee and provides a free version with a 5 GB data limit. I also support many payment options, including crypto payments and Google Pay.

Read more about AtlasVPN in our AtlasVPN Review.

4. PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN is great for both beginners and advanced Tor Browser users. Its customizable features and stealth VPN mode make it perfect for anonymity.

Security: PrivateVPN uses AES-256 encryption that ensures optimal data protection. Its DNS and IP leak protection and a kill switch ensure your data remains secure if the connection drops. Additionally, the service disguises VPN traffic as regular traffic with Stealth VPN. This enables you to bypass stringent bans in heavily censored regions.

Privacy: PrivateVPN has a no-logs policy, reinforcing user privacy. Although part of the 14-Eyes alliance, they emphasize user anonymity to ensure privacy. They also come with dedicated IP addresses for specific needs.

Performance: Performance-wise, PrivateVPN delivers good download and upload speeds. It supports OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols among others. Despite a smaller server network of around 200 servers in 63 countries, it boasts a high 99.98% uptime.

Other features: It successfully unblocks geo-restricted content from YouTube, BBC iPlayer, and Netflix. It also supports P2P traffic as well as port forwarding.

Pricing: PrivateVPN offers competitive pricing plans. $9.90/month for a 1-month plan, dropping down to $2.00/month for long-term 36-month plan. Users also enjoy a 7-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

PrivateVPN Plans	Price per Month
1-Month Plan	$9.90
3-Month Plan	$6.00
36-Month Plan	$2.00

5. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN secures a spot amongst the top VPNs for Tor. It is a premium choice for Tor’s anonymity with privacy in mind. However, the price might seem too steep for some.

Security: ExpressVPN encrypts your data with AES 256-GCM and authenticates the SHA-512 hash function. An automatic kill switch or ‘Network Lock’ prevents accidental IP leaks. The servers operate on RAM with TrustedServer technology. On each reboot, the servers are wiped out, ensuring zero data logs.

Privacy: ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands, in privacy-friendly jurisdiction. It has a no-logs policy proven by independent audits by PwC and Cure53. Additionally, every server employs private DNS providing anonimity whilst exploring the dark web.

Performance: Spanning 160 server locations across 94 countries, ExpressVPN offers a wide network. Its Lightway protocol is great for speed and security and outperforms other protocols. However, sometimes you may encounter fluctuating speeds while torrenting.

ExpressVPN speed test resulted in 137 Mbps download and 162 Mbps upload.

Other features: ExpressVPN unblocks major streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. It enables P2P and torrenting across all servers. Their MediaStreamer extends support to smart TVs and streaming sticks. It also supports port forwarding on routers.

Pricing: ExpressVPN is priced slightly higher than the competitors. Their monthly plan is $12.95/month. Longer commitments are cheaper and come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

ExpressVPN Plans	Price per Month	Simultaneous Connections
1-Month Plan	$12.95	5
6-Month Plan	$9.99	Up to 8
1-Year Plan	$6.67	Up to 8

6. Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access (PIA) is one of the most robust choices for the Tor Browser. PIA features top-notch privacy, and incredible performance, making it one of the best VPNs for Tor Network.

Security: PIA’s commitment to security offers peace of mind. Highlighted features:

Kill Switch Customizable encryption levels RAM-only servers (NextGen network) Port Forwarding Proxy (SOCKS5 and Shadowsocks)

Privacy: PIA leads with privacy, ensuring zero data leaks. It uses SHA1 and SHA2 hashing algorithms and does not keep any activity logs. It also offers a dedicated IP and has MACE to block ads and trackers.

Performance: PIA impresses with high download and upload speeds of 111 Mbps and 168 Mbps. WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec are supported offering flexibility.

Other features: PIA supports P2P torrenting and can unblock streaming services like Netflix. However, it doesn’t yet support BBC iPlayer. PIA is compatible with Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS, and Linux platforms.

Pricing: PIA offers competitive pricing with a 1-month plan at $11.99/month, a 6-month plan at $7.50/month. The most affordable 2-year plan is just $1.98/month. A 30-day money-back guarantee provides risk-free trial, and payments can be made via credit cards, PayPal, and cryptocurrencies.

PIA Plans	Price per Month	Total Price per Year
1-Month Plan	$11.99	$11.99
6-Month Plan	$7.50	$45.00
2-Year Plan	$1.98	$56.94

7. CyberGhost

CyberGhost is a VPN engineered and tailored for diverse needs. It ranks among the best Tor Browser VPNs due to its competitive pricing and good user experience.

Security: CyberGhost upholds superior security measures. It offers AES-256 encryption, automatic Kill Switch, and DNS leak prevention. These features maintain your data safety, even if the connection drops. CyberGhost also offers Dark Web Monitoring with its Privacy Guard feature. It’s a proactive defense against potential dark web threats.

Privacy: CyberGhost has a strict no-logging policy, verified by Deloitte’s independent audit. This proves that user data isn’t stored or sold. The VPN is based in Romania, outside the Fourteen Eyes jurisdiction. Lastly, it allows customization of general and privacy settings for personalized protection.

Performance: Performance metrics of CyberGhost are satisfactory for Tor users. It supports top-notch protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2. Speed tests reveal a download speed of 46 Mbps and 174 Mbps upload speed in the US. However, performance may vary in different regions.

Other Features: Special servers for streaming and torrenting enhance its utility. CyberGhost reliably unblocks popular platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu. P2P-optimized servers offer suitable connections for torrenting, albeit at variable speeds.

Pricing: CyberGhost’s pricing is affordable. The plans go at $12.99/month for a monthly plan, $6.99/month for 6 months, and $2.11/month for a 2-year plan. It accepts several payment methods, including cryptocurrencies, and offers a money-back guarantee.

CyberGhost Plans	Price per Month	Money-Back Guarantee
1-Month Plan	$12.99	14 Days
6-Month Plan	$6.99	45 Days
2-Year Plan	$2.11	45 Days

How I Tested and Rated the Best VPNs for Tor:

These are the factors I used to test and pick only the best VPNs for Tor:

• Privacy: I focused on the VPNs that maintain high privacy standards. The chosen VPNs adhere to a strict no-logs policy, as it is needed for anonymity while using the Tor browser.
• Security: Alongside privacy, I emphasized the strong security features. A robust 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and DNS/IP address leak protection are important to prevent the exposure of sensitive information.
• Server Selection: Some websites are inaccessible through the Tor network. So, I prioritized VPNs with a diverse range of IP addresses and dedicated IP address options. This ensures users always have sufficient connectivity choices, regardless of their location.
• Server Speed: As the Tor network is inherently slow, I chose VPNs that have above-average speeds. Fast VPNs prevent further network performance degradation and ensure a smooth browsing experience.
• Supported Payment Options: I considered VPNs offering payment with cryptocurrencies as highly favorable. They allow users to subscribe and use a VPN anonymously.
• Additional Factors: In addition, I also took into account other usability factors. For example, the quality of customer support, VPN connection limits, and app support. Also, any extra features that could influence the experience of using a VPN with the Tor network.

Should You Use Tor Over VPN?

Using Tor over VPN is the easiest and most common way of combining Tor and a VPN, and there’s nothing wrong with setting up your connection this way. With Tor over VPN, your network is first routed through the VPN’s servers before connecting to the Tor network. 

In other words, your entire network is protected, and it’s impossible for anyone to find out your real IP address. Plus, even if you’re not very tech-savvy, you can set it up in seconds. All you need to do is connect to the VPN server and then open Tor, and you’ll be automatically using Tor over VPN. 

That said, to be fair and look at the other side of the coin, the main downside of Tor over VPN is the lack of protection against malicious exit nodes. As your Internet traffic is unencrypted by the time it reaches its destination, malicious users can spy on you by controlling exit nodes. While Tor encrypts data that goes through its network, the exit nodes can monitor traffic that goes through them. 

The alternative to using Tor over VPN is to use VPN over Tor. This type of configuration requires a more complicated setup, as you will have to adjust some VPN-Tor settings. VPN over Tor also comes with its own advantages and drawbacks. The main benefit of using a VPN over Tor is that the VPN encrypts your connection from malicious exit nodes. 

However, the big disadvantage of the VPN over Tor method is that your ISP and anyone spying on your network will be able to see that you’re using the Tor browser. While your Tor traffic will be encrypted, your ISP will be able to see that you’re establishing a Tor connection.

This is because the VPN won’t be encrypting your connection information before it gets to the Tor browser. The entry node will be able to see your real IP address. With this in mind, VPN over Tor is a less preferred option than Tor over VPN. 

Free VPNs for Tor Browser

Free VPNs are widely available online, but we advise you to be careful when using these services and do your research before signing up with a Tor free VPN. Generally, we think that using a free VPN for The Onion Router can potentially do you more harm than good. These Virtual Private Networks often offer slow speeds, lack servers, and aren’t very privacy-friendly.

That said, we do find the Atlas VPN free service trustworthy enough to recommend you give it a try. The Atlas VPN free subscription plan is the best free VPN option for casual users who don’t need an overabundance of features but want a trusted free VPN for Tor.

How To Access the Tor Network with a VPN

There are several ways to use The Onion Router with a VPN. Needless to say, using the Tor browser with a VPN is the most common one, which is why we’ll use it in this step-by-step example. 

With that in mind, before you proceed with the steps below, the first thing you need to do is install the Tor browser on your device. Once you have your Tor browser installed, here’s how to use Tor with a VPN:

1. Sign up with a trusted VPN service (Our top pick is NordVPN)
2. Download the VPN app on your device
3. Open the app and log in
4. Choose a server and connect
5. Wait a few seconds for the connection to establish, then open Tor
6. Surf the web in maximum privacy and anonymity!

Tor VPN FAQs

Is it legal to use a VPN with Tor?

Yes, in most countries, it’s completely legal to use a Virtual Private Network with Tor, and Tor is safe to use. That said, the legality of this may vary depending on your location. So if you live in a country that tends to censor the Internet, we advise you to check the rules before using a Tor-VPN combination.

What is Onion Over VPN?

Onion over VPN is a special category of servers that NordVPN Tor users can take advantage of. Onion over VPN eliminates the need for a separate Tor browser and delivers additional privacy to users accessing the Onion network.

Onion over VPN operates on the same principles as Tor over VPN. In other words, with Onion over VPN, you connect to the VPN server first. You can automatically connect to the most optimal Onion over VPN server by clicking on this option in the NordVPN app. After that, you access the Tor network. 

Does Tor have a built-in VPN?

No, Tor does not have a built-in VPN, nor is it a VPN service. Tor is a tool designed to offer you anonymity when browsing the dark web and enable access to some of the less-visited parts of the Internet. That said, it does not protect your online privacy as a whole, nor does it have any security features like a VPN.

Is it safe to use Tor without a VPN?

Tor is designed to work as a privacy tool on its own, so you can access the dark web using Tor without VPN and still enjoy privacy. That said, while no one can see what you’re doing through Tor, they will still see that you’re using this browser. So, using a VPN for Tor is best if you want maximum online privacy.

What’s the Best Tor VPN for Windows?

The NordVPN Windows app is the best Tor VPN for Windows. It comes loaded with privacy and security features and allows great customizability based on your requirements. The NordVPN Windows client is the best VPN for Windows overall, in our opinion, not just for the Tor browser. 

Can I Use a VPN and Tor on my Android or iOS device?

If you’re an Android user, you can download the official Tor browser from the Google Play Store and combine it with any VPN that has an Android app. On the other hand, there isn’t a first-party Tor browser available for iOS users, but they can use the Onion Browser, available in the Apple Store. 

Are Tor bridges better than a VPN server?

Tor bridges can be great for hiding your Tor connections. However, there are a few drawbacks to using Tor bridges to hide your network traffic. Mainly, as they aren’t public, they can be tough to find. Plus, they aren’t as easy to set up as VPNs. This is why we recommend using a secure VPN over bridges.

Conclusion

Hopefully, this detailed guide has helped you find out if you should use a VPN with Tor. Moreover, if the answer to this query is positive, this guide should have provided you with all of the necessary information to set you on the right track for using a VPN for Tor and maximizing your online privacy.
Each of the eight best VPNs we’ve shared with you above is capable of protecting your online privacy without affecting your dark web browsing experience. Even so, after testing the best VPN for Tor currently available online, we’ve found NordVPN to be the top VPN for Tor. It’s a fantastic all-around service with some special features tailored toward Tor users.