Best VPN for Tor Browser in 2024

Tor browser enhances your online privacy by applying encryption and routing the traffic through a series of relays. However, Tor isn't fully secure: for example, some of the exit nodes, known as spoiled onions, are malicious and may be snooping on your activities. Thankfully, you can avoid online calamities with the best VPN for the Tor browser.

Virtual private networks encrypt your data, hide your whereabouts, and change your IP address. That way, they boost your online security and prevent digital dangers. Moreover, the top premium VPNs offer loads of nifty features that will make your online explorations easier.

Thus, let’s find out which Tor browser VPN is the best.

Best Tor Browser VPNs: shortlist

1. NordVPN

   The best VPN for Tor browser
   9.8
2. Surfshark VPN

   VPN for Tor with no device limit
   9.5
3. PrivateVPN

   Tor browser VPN with lowest prices
   8.7
4. Proton VPN

   Most secure VPN for Onion browser
   8.6

Why do you need a VPN for Tor?

The main reason why you need a Tor VPN is because it doesn’t ensure a sufficient level of safety. There are plenty of virus-infected sites, malicious actors, and other online dangers. Moreover, if you don’t encrypt your traffic, there is a chance that snoopers, your ISP, and the government can see what you’re up to on Tor.

Therefore, using the best VPN is a pretty wise decision. It keeps your information secure, and your IP and whereabouts are hidden. Thus, you’ll be able to enjoy total safety and privacy.

Moreover, VPNs will enhance your dark web exploration experience. That place is full of spooky stuff, malware, and other online dangers. Luckily the best dark web VPN will provide you with a wide range of safety features. Moreover, the top-tier services won’t slow you down as much, so you’ll get your search results quicker.

Apart from that, you can use a Tor VPN for entertainment and other purposes. For example, you’ll unblock loads of geo-restricted content on various streaming services like Netflix, Crunchyroll, or Disney+. Plus, you’ll be able to torrent globally without any issues.

Best VPN for Tor: detailed list

While Tor is one of the most private browsers, using a secure VPN to boost your online safety is a wise move. It will make your browsing even more enjoyable and incognito. So, below you’ll find the best services the VPN world has to offer. So, read on and find your one and only VPN for Tor Browser.

1. NordVPN – all-round the top VPN for Tor browser

NordVPN is the best VPN for Tor. This service provides top-level security and privacy with military-grade encryption, Bitcoin payments, Threat Protection, and a strict no-logs policy.

Available on all major platforms, NordVPN features specialized Onion over VPN servers that allow you to access the Tor network using any browser. What’s more, this will effectively hide your real IP address from the government and your ISP.

Consider using this Panama-based VPN with Tor if you are on a budget – you can get NordVPN for just $2.99/month. Don’t forget this is the fastest VPN, meaning you will enjoy the best possible speeds. Finally, you also get 10 simultaneous connections and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

For a deeper investigation of NordVPN, read our NordVPN review.

2. Surfshark VPN – highly-affordable and powerful VPN for Onion browser

Surfshark VPN is among the best Tor VPN services. Firstly, it’s very fast, which is important considering the slowdown you’ll get from using Tor. Secondly, it’s located in the Netherlands (a country with no data retention laws) and also has a valid no-logs policy.

But most importantly, Surfshark is loaded with security features. For instance, MultiHop uses not one but two VPN servers for extra anonymity. Then there are NoBorders and Camouflage modes that scramble your traffic and make it hard to detect even when using Deep Packet Inspection (DPI).

And now comes the best part – you can buy Surfshark for just $2.19/month. For this trivial sum, you’ll also get unlimited simultaneous connections, making it one of the best multi-device VPNs. Surfshark VPN accepts cryptocurrencies and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

For a deeper investigation of Surfshark VPN, read our Surfshark VPN review.

3. PrivateVPN – cheap VPN for Tor browser

Not only is PrivateVPN one of the cheapest VPNs on the market, but it’s also a great choice for the Tor browser. It also offers free dedicated IPs, which are great for bypassing geo-blocks and preventing endless CAPTCHAs.

While it doesn’t utilize the WireGuard tunneling protocol, PrivateVPN still manages to ensure top-tier speeds with High Quality Network. Additionally, it offers all security must-haves and a strict zero-logs policy. And if you want to bypass strict firewalls and avoid DPI, utilize Stealth VPN.

Available from as little as $2.00/month, this VPN certainly won’t break the bank. One account will get you 10 simultaneous connections, fast speeds, and decent global coverage. PrivateVPN also offers a 7-day free trial and a 30-day money back-guarantee.

For a deeper investigation of PrivateVPN, read our PrivateVPN review.

4. Proton VPN – service with Tor over VPN feature

Proton is among the best VPNs to use with Tor as it’s one of the safest services globally and provides a sublime free version. Also, this Swiss-based (super privacy-friendly) VPN has a guaranteed zero-logs policy to keep you confidential.

You won’t have to worry about slow speeds either, as the WireGuard tunneling protocol and VPN Accelerator will do the trick. In addition, Tor over VPN will route your internet traffic through the Tor network and will add an extra layer of security. And if that’s not enough, Netshield will protect you against viruses, malicious ads, and rootkits.

So, don’t hesitate to try this magnificent free VPN for Tor. Alternatively, instantly get all premium features and 10 simultaneous connections with the Proton VPN plan for $3.59/month. And a 30-day money-back guarantee will protect your subscription.

For a deeper investigation of Proton VPN, read our Proton VPN review.

Best Tor VPNs: comparison

Now that you’ve read everything about the best VPNs for Tor, it’s time to compare them and see which one comes on top:

Snatch the best VPN for Tor

How we made this Best VPN for Tor Browser list?

Not all VPNs go hand-in-hand with Tor. You need to look for some specific characteristics that will help you have the best and most private online experience:

• Impregnable security. All reliable Tor browser VPNs should offer safety essentials like AES-256 encryption, a robust kill switch, and IP & DNS leak protection. Even better if a VPN comes with a malware/ad blocker.
• Total privacy. A trustworthy no-logs VPN should have independent audits and strict policies. Moreover, a service shouldn’t be based in a country that is a part of the Fourteen Eyes alliance.
• Top-tier speeds. You don’t want a VPN to slow you down, especially when browsing the dark web. Thus, choose a Tor browser VPN that utilizes WireGuard on NordLynx tunneling protocols.
• Phenomenal server network. Quantity and quality of the hardware influences performance and connectivity. Therefore, the more locations and servers you get, the better.
• Excellent compatibility. A top-notch VPN for Tor should have apps for all major devices. Not to mention, it should offer enough connections for all of your precious smart gadgets.
• Additional features. Some providers go the extra mile to try and make your internet experience a lot smoother. For example, you can get Smart DNS which makes it easier to stream on smart TVs. Or Multi-Hop that two-folds your security.

What’s the difference between Tor over VPN vs VPN over Tor?

There’s a lot of confusion about Tor over VPN, VPN over Tor, and Onion over VPN. The main difference between Tor over VPN and VPN over Tor is the connection order.

In the case of Tor over VPN, you connect to the VPN first and vice versa. Both options have their pros and cons. And when it comes to Onion over VPN, you’ll only find it with NordVPN. It’s a slightly improved version of Tor over VPN.

Now that we’ve cleared that up let’s compare the two setups:

Tor vs. VPN: which one is better?

Usually, people (especially on Reddit) have heated debates on which one is better to use: Tor or VPN. However, it’s kinda like comparing apples and oranges.

Tor is a great free browser that keeps you private while surfing the web. It’s a decentralized network that is maintained by volunteers. So, because Tor is distributed and not owned by a single entity, various snoopers, governments, and ISPs have a hard time getting to your browsing history. However, privacy and freedom come at a price. Tor is quite slow and lacks some important features like Flash. Plus, it lacks security features, which are super important in today’s world.

VPN, on the other hand, is a tool for overall security and privacy. Moreover, with a virtual private network, you’ll be able to bypass geo-blocks and access restricted content. Unlike Tor, it keeps your whole network secure and ensures amazing speeds. However, most reliable VPNs are paid, and free ones might compromise your safety.

So, which one should you use? You don’t need to pick one as you can use them in unison. That way, you’ll get the best of both worlds: the privacy of Tor and the security of a VPN.

Combine Tor with a VPN

Is it safe to use a free VPN for Tor browser?

In our honest opinion, using a free VPN for the Tor browser is highly not recommended. That’s because you’ll be putting yourself at risk. Free VPNs lack security, privacy, and speed, which are essential parts of the best VPNs for Tor.

Many free services collect your data and sell it to third parties. Some of these VPNs even inject tracking cookies into your sessions. If that wasn’t enough, the lack of servers means that it’s much easier to track you down. Also, most of them throttle your bandwidth and limit the amount of data you can download.

Therefore, if you want to stay safe but can’t spare any cash, we have 2 reliant options for you:

1. Freemium VPNs. Some services offer no-pay versions supported by premium member subscriptions. While they have their limitations, they will offer an extra layer of security.
2. Free trial VPNs. These are premium services that offer free trial versions and money-back guarantees. That way, you can use these VPNs and all of their features.

Conclusion

As you know by now, a VPN for Tor browser can vastly improve your web browsing experience. A virtual private network will boost your security by encrypting your data. Plus, instead of only protecting your Tor web traffic, it will secure multiple devices.

And the best of the bunch is undoubtedly NordVPN. It will undoubtedly keep you safe and confidential as it offers phenomenal features. Moreover, you’ll experience mind-blowing speeds and geo-unblocking capabilities. Not to mention, you’ll be secure wherever you are, as it offers servers globally.

Do you use a VPN when using Tor? Which one do you prefer the most? Let us know by leaving a comment.

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FAQ

Which VPN should I use for Tor?

We recommend using NordVPN with Tor. It has excellent security and privacy credentials and is also fast, meaning it won't further reduce the browsing speed. Most importantly, NordVPN has an Onion over VPN feature that lets you integrate both tools seamlessly.

Is it good to use VPN with Tor?

Yes, even though Tor is fairly private, using a VPN is highly recommended as it will boost your security and privacy. It encrypts your data, hides your IP address, and spoofs your whereabouts. That way, no one will have access to your information, and you’ll stay completely incognito.

Should I use Tor Bridges instead of a VPN?

Both Tor Bridges and VPN have their uses, but you should be using a virtual private network at all times. We advise using Tor Bridges for special uses only: when you’re in a highly restricted country or want to do something highly secretive on the dark web. Whereas a VPN is a great tool for everyday use.

Is it illegal to use the Tor browser?

It’s perfectly fine to use the Tor browser in most countries. However, it depends on what you’re doing there. If you’re using it for regular private browsing, you’ll be totally fine. Nevertheless, if you engage in illegal activities, you might be fined if you get caught. Whatever you do, if you want more safety, use NordVPN.

What is Onion over VPN?

Onion over VPN is a NordVPN feature that works the same as Tor over VPN. it basically gives you all the privacy advantages of Tor and combines it with the security features of a VPN.