Top 10 Best VPNs for Russia in 2024: Unblock Content Safely and Quickly

In recent years, access to some online resources, like YouTube, has become increasingly difficult for users in Russia. For example, many Russians face problems when trying to watch videos on YouTube due to restrictions imposed by internet service providers.

To bypass these geographic restrictions and access the desired content, more and more people are starting to use VPNs (Virtual Private Networks). A VPN not only helps bypass blocks but also improves website loading speeds. In this article, we will review the best VPN services of 2024 that will help you easily and securely access the resources you need.

What is a VPN?

A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is a technology that provides a secure and private connection to the internet. The main idea of a VPN is to create a protected tunnel between your device and a VPN server, which can be located anywhere in the world. This tunnel encrypts all data passing through it, making it inaccessible to hackers, internet service providers, and even government agencies. For example, if you are using public Wi-Fi in a cafe, a VPN protects your data, such as passwords and banking details, from potential interception.

The way a VPN works is by masking your real IP address. When you connect to a VPN, your internet traffic is rerouted through one of the VPN servers located in another country. This makes it appear as if you are in that country, rather than in Russia, allowing you to access content that may be blocked in your region. Additionally, the data encryption used by VPNs prevents your online activity from being tracked and protects your privacy on the internet.

How to Choose a VPN?

Choosing a VPN is an important step for those who want to ensure their online security and bypass regional restrictions. With such a wide range of options on the market, it can be challenging to decide on the best one. To make the right choice, you need to consider several key factors that directly affect the security, speed, and ease of use of a VPN. Let’s look at the main criteria you should pay attention to when choosing a VPN service.

Encryption Level

When choosing a VPN, it's important to consider the level of encryption that protects your data. Reliable VPN services use modern encryption methods, such as AES-256, which ensures a high level of security. Strong encryption makes your data inaccessible for interception and hacking.

Privacy Policy

The privacy policy of a VPN is another important factor. It's best to choose services with a "no-logs" policy, which do not store any data about your online activity. This ensures the protection of your privacy even if third parties request information.

Number of Servers and Locations

The number of servers and their geographical locations also play an important role. The more servers a VPN service provides, the more options you have for bypassing regional blocks and improving connection speeds. To access blocked resources, such as YouTube, choose servers in countries where access is not restricted.

Device Compatibility

Make sure that the VPN you choose supports all your devices and operating systems. This is important for ensuring seamless internet access from any device—whether it's a computer, smartphone, or tablet. Additional features, such as DNS leak protection and a Kill Switch, can also be beneficial.

Reputation and Reviews

Finally, pay attention to the reputation of the VPN service and the reviews from other users. A reliable VPN should have positive reviews and a long-standing presence in the market, indicating its quality and security.

10 BEST VPN Servers for 2024: Recommendations and Reviews

1.Mullvad VPN

Mullvad VPN is one of the most reliable VPN services that prioritizes user privacy protection. This Swedish-based service offers ease of use and a high level of security, making it a popular choice among users who value their anonymity on the internet.

Advantages of Mullvad VPN

The main advantage of Mullvad VPN is its "no-logs" policy. The service does not store any information about users' online activities, making it one of the most secure options. Mullvad VPN also supports AES-256 encryption and uses WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols, which provide reliable data protection. Additionally, the service does not require account creation—connecting only requires using a unique account number, which further enhances anonymity.

Disadvantages of Mullvad VPN

One of the disadvantages of Mullvad VPN is its limited number of servers compared to competitors. The service has servers in about 40 countries, which may not be sufficient for some users who need a wider range of locations. Additionally, Mullvad VPN does not offer a built-in ad blocker or other extra features that some other VPN services provide.

Pricing

Mullvad VPN offers a simple and transparent pricing policy—: a fixed cost of €5 per month. This approach avoids long-term commitments, making it appealing to those who prefer flexibility and no hidden fees.

Supported Platforms

Mullvad VPN supports a wide range of platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. There is also an option to set up the VPN on routers, allowing you to protect all devices on the network.

User Reviews

Users highly rate Mullvad VPN for its simplicity, reliability, and strict privacy policy. Many appreciate the ease of use and the lack of a requirement to provide personal information. However, some users point out the limited number of servers and the absence of additional features as drawbacks.

Recommendation

Mullvad VPN is an excellent choice for those looking for a simple and reliable VPN service with a strong focus on privacy. With its "no-logs" policy and transparent pricing, it is perfect for users who value anonymity. However, if you need additional features or a broader range of servers, you might want to consider other options. Mullvad VPN scores highly for privacy protection and ease of use, but it may not be the best fit for those seeking a more feature-rich VPN.

2.ExpressVPN  

ExpressVPN is one of the most popular and highly-rated VPN services on the market. It is known for its high speed, reliable data protection, and a wide range of servers worldwide. This service is especially popular among users who need stable and fast access to blocked or restricted resources, such as YouTube or streaming platforms.

Advantages of ExpressVPN  

ExpressVPN has several significant advantages. First, its connection speed. With an optimized network of servers in over 90 countries, ExpressVPN provides fast content loading and minimal latency, which is particularly important for video streaming and online gaming. Second, the service uses military-grade encryption (AES-256), ensuring a high level of data security. Additionally, ExpressVPN supports OpenVPN, IKEv2, and Lightway protocols, providing reliable protection and flexibility in use.

Disadvantages of ExpressVPN  

The main disadvantage of ExpressVPN is its price. Compared to other VPN services, ExpressVPN is more expensive, which may not be affordable for some users. Moreover, while the service offers powerful security features, the lack of a built-in ad blocker can be a downside for those who want comprehensive protection.

Pricing  

ExpressVPN offers several pricing plans, starting at $12.95 per month. When subscribing annually, the price drops to $8.32 per month, making it more affordable for long-term use. However, compared to other VPNs, the price is still above average.

Platforms  

ExpressVPN supports a wide range of devices and operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. Additionally, it is compatible with routers, smart TVs, game consoles, and even browser extensions, making it a versatile solution for protecting all your devices.

User Reviews  

User reviews of ExpressVPN are mostly positive. Users praise the high connection speed, stability, and ease of use. Many also commend the quality customer support, which is available 24/7. However, some users point to the high cost as a significant downside.

Recommendation  

ExpressVPN is an excellent choice for those looking for a high-speed and reliable VPN service with a wide range of servers and support for various devices. It is ideal for streaming, bypassing geographic restrictions, and protecting privacy online. While the price of ExpressVPN may seem above average, its functionality and service quality justify the cost. This VPN service is recommended for users who prioritize speed and security and are willing to invest in a high-quality product.

3.CyberGhost VPN

CyberGhost VPN is a popular VPN service that offers an extensive set of features to ensure online security and privacy. This Romanian service has established itself as a reliable choice for users who need access to blocked websites and anonymity online. CyberGhost VPN is particularly known for its ease of use and wide selection of servers.

Advantages of CyberGhost VPN

One of the main advantages of CyberGhost VPN is the large number of servers—over 7,000 servers in 90 countries. This allows users to easily bypass regional blocks and access content from around the world. CyberGhost also offers easy setup and use, making it suitable for beginners. Additionally, the service provides a built-in ad and malware blocker, enhancing security while surfing the web.

Disadvantages of CyberGhost VPN

Despite its advantages, CyberGhost VPN has some drawbacks. In some cases, users report a decrease in connection speed when connecting to remote servers. Moreover, despite its "no-logs" policy, the company has faced criticism in the past regarding its privacy policy, although these issues have since been resolved. Advanced users may find some specialized settings and features lacking compared to other VPNs.

Pricing

CyberGhost VPN offers several pricing plans, starting at €2.19 per month when paid for two years. A monthly subscription is also available, which is more expensive but provides more flexibility. The service offers a 45-day money-back guarantee, allowing users to test it risk-free.

Supported Platforms

CyberGhost VPN supports almost all major platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. The service also provides browser extensions and the option to set up on routers and smart TVs, making it a versatile solution for all devices.

User Reviews

Users highly rate CyberGhost VPN for its ease of use, wide selection of servers, and additional features like ad blocking. However, some users note occasional speed issues and have expressed a desire for improvements in the privacy policy. Overall, CyberGhost VPN receives positive reviews for its reliability and convenience.

Recommendation

CyberGhost VPN is an excellent choice for users who value a wide range of servers, ease of use, and additional security features. It is ideal for those who want to bypass regional restrictions and access a broad spectrum of content. Despite some drawbacks, CyberGhost VPN deserves high marks for its functionality and affordable price. If you are looking for a comprehensive solution with numerous servers and extra features, CyberGhost VPN is a reliable option for protecting your privacy online.

4.NordVPN

NordVPN is one of the most popular and reliable VPN services on the market, known for its strong privacy protection and numerous additional features. The service is based in Panama, allowing it to avoid the jurisdiction of countries with strict internet activity monitoring, such as those in the "Five Eyes Alliance."

Advantages of NordVPN

NordVPN offers some of the most powerful encryption on the market—AES-256—and supports OpenVPN and WireGuard (NordLynx) protocols. One of its key advantages is having over 5,500 servers in 60 countries, providing high connection speeds and extensive options for bypassing geographic restrictions. Additional features include double encryption (Double VPN), a Kill Switch, and a built-in ad and malware blocker (CyberSec).

Disadvantages of NordVPN

The main disadvantage of NordVPN is its price, which can be higher compared to other services. Although there are discounts for long-term subscriptions, the monthly cost may be quite high for some users. Some users also report that the NordVPN mobile app can be less stable on certain devices.

NordVPN Pricing

NordVPN offers several pricing plans. The most affordable two-year subscription costs about $3.71 per month, with yearly and monthly subscriptions also available. Long-term subscriptions offer significant savings, making the service more accessible to users who are ready for long-term commitments.

Supported Platforms

NordVPN supports a wide range of devices and platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, as well as browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox. NordVPN can also be set up on routers and some smart TVs, allowing all devices on a home network to be protected.

User Reviews

NordVPN generally receives positive user reviews. Users note high speeds, reliable encryption, and a wide range of servers. Many are also attracted by additional features like double encryption and ad blocking. However, there are occasional complaints about the instability of the mobile app and the relatively high cost.

Recommendation

NordVPN is an excellent choice for users who value security, speed, and extensive options for bypassing geographic restrictions. The service is particularly suitable for those looking for a VPN with a large number of servers and extra features like ad blocking and double encryption. Despite the relatively high price, NordVPN offers a high level of protection and convenience, making it one of the best VPN services on the market.

5.Surfshark

Surfshark is a popular VPN service that offers a wide range of features and a high level of data protection. The service is known for its user-friendly interface and the ability to connect an unlimited number of devices with a single account. Surfshark has earned users' trust due to its quality, variety of servers, and affordable pricing.

Advantages of Surfshark

One of the main advantages of Surfshark is the ability to connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously. This makes it a great choice for families and small businesses. Surfshark also offers reliable AES-256 encryption and supports modern protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN. Additionally, the service includes a built-in ad and malware blocker, as well as a "Camouflage Mode" that hides the fact that you are using a VPN, even from your internet service provider.

Disadvantages of Surfshark

While Surfshark offers many features, some users note that connection speeds can vary depending on server load. Moreover, despite having a wide range of servers, the total number still falls short compared to some competitors on the market. Another downside could be the lack of advanced settings for experienced users who prefer to manually configure their VPN.

Surfshark Pricing

Surfshark offers various pricing plans, including a monthly subscription for $12.95, a yearly subscription for $47.88, and a two-year plan for $59.76, making it one of the most affordable VPNs on the market. The two-year plan is particularly cost-effective, providing significant savings for long-term use.

Supported Platforms

Surfshark supports all major platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and offers browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox. The service can also be set up on routers, allowing you to protect all devices in your network.

User Reviews

Users of Surfshark mostly leave positive reviews, highlighting its ease of use, wide range of features, and good performance. Many appreciate the ability to connect an unlimited number of devices and the inclusion of extra features like ad blocking. However, some users express concerns about potential speed drops during peak hours.

Recommendation

Surfshark is an excellent solution for those looking for a powerful and multifunctional VPN at an affordable price. With support for an unlimited number of devices and a rich set of features, it is perfect for families and those who use multiple gadgets. Despite potential speed fluctuations, Surfshark remains one of the best options on the market due to its balance of price, functionality, and convenience. Surfshark is highly recommended for users who value a balance between cost and quality.

6. ProtonVPN  

ProtonVPN is a Swiss VPN service created by the team behind the well-known secure email service, ProtonMail. ProtonVPN has established itself as one of the most reliable and secure VPN services, focused on protecting user privacy and providing unrestricted internet access.

Advantages of ProtonVPN  

One of the key advantages of ProtonVPN is its high level of security. The service uses AES-256 encryption and supports modern VPN protocols such as OpenVPN and IKEv2/IPSec. An important benefit is that ProtonVPN is based in Switzerland, a country with some of the strictest data protection laws. Additionally, the service offers a "Secure Core" feature that routes your traffic through multiple servers in different countries, providing an extra layer of protection against tracking.  

ProtonVPN also offers a free version with a limited number of servers, which is a good option for users who need basic protection and internet access without cost.

Disadvantages of ProtonVPN  

While ProtonVPN offers many advantages, it also has some drawbacks. The free version is limited to three countries and may have low connection speeds due to a large number of users. Also, the paid plans of ProtonVPN, especially those with the Secure Core feature, can seem more expensive compared to competitors. Another downside is the lack of support for the WireGuard protocol, which is becoming increasingly popular among VPN services.

ProtonVPN Pricing  

ProtonVPN offers several pricing plans. The free plan provides access to a limited number of servers and one session. Paid plans start at €5 per month for the basic version and can go up to €10 per month for the full version with access to the Secure Core feature and multiple devices.

Supported Platforms  

ProtonVPN is available on most popular platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. The service also supports setup on routers and offers open-source client software, which enhances trust among users.

User Reviews  

Users highly rate ProtonVPN for its commitment to privacy protection and transparent policy. Many positive reviews are related to the reliability and speed of the service, especially on paid plans. However, some users express dissatisfaction with the cost and the limited capabilities of the free version.

Recommendation  

ProtonVPN is an excellent choice for users looking for a reliable and secure VPN service with a focus on privacy. The free version provides a basic level of protection, but for full use of the service, it is better to consider the paid plans. If a high level of data protection and access to advanced features like Secure Core is important to you, ProtonVPN is a good choice. However, if you prioritize lower costs or support for WireGuard, you might want to consider other services. ProtonVPN receives high marks for security and privacy, but the cost may be a limiting factor for some users.

7.VyprVPN

VyprVPN is a popular VPN service developed by the Swiss company Golden Frog. This service is geared toward users who value security and connection speed. VyprVPN offers a wide range of features, including its proprietary Chameleon protocol, which helps bypass even the strictest internet blocks.

Advantages of VyprVPN

One of the key advantages of VyprVPN is its high connection speed, achieved by using over 700 servers in more than 70 countries. The proprietary Chameleon protocol effectively bypasses VPN blocks, making this service an excellent choice for users in countries with strict internet censorship. Moreover, VyprVPN has a strict "no-logs" policy, verified by independent audits, ensuring the security and privacy of user data.

Disadvantages of VyprVPN

Among the disadvantages of VyprVPN is the lack of payment options through cryptocurrencies, which may be important for users seeking maximum anonymity. Additionally, the subscription cost may seem above average, especially for short-term plans, which could be a barrier for some users.

VyprVPN Pricing

VyprVPN offers several pricing plans, including monthly and annual subscriptions. The monthly subscription costs around $12.95, but the price significantly drops with the annual plan, making the service more affordable. Despite the relatively high cost, users receive a wide range of features and a high level of protection.

Supported Platforms

VyprVPN supports various platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. The service is also compatible with routers and smart TVs, allowing easy protection of all devices on a network. This makes VyprVPN convenient for home use and on different devices.

User Reviews

Users rate VyprVPN positively for its high speed and connection stability, as well as its ability to bypass complex internet blocks. The Chameleon protocol has received high marks for its ability to work even in heavily censored environments. However, some users note that the service's cost could be lower, especially for short-term subscriptions.

Recommendation

VyprVPN is an excellent choice for users looking for a reliable VPN with high speed and the ability to bypass internet blocks. Thanks to the Chameleon protocol and a wide range of servers, this service is ideal for use in countries with restricted internet access. Despite the higher cost compared to some competitors, VyprVPN justifies its price with the quality of services and the level of protection, making it one of the best options on the market.

8. Astrill VPN  

Astrill VPN is a high-quality VPN service that has established itself as a reliable and powerful tool for bypassing internet censorship and protecting privacy. This service is particularly popular among users in countries with strict internet access restrictions, such as China. Astrill VPN offers extensive customization options and broad support for various devices.

Advantages of Astrill VPN  

Astrill VPN is known for its high connection speed, making it an ideal choice for streaming videos, online gaming, and other tasks that require fast and stable connections. The service supports multiple encryption protocols, including OpenVPN, StealthVPN, and WireGuard, providing maximum security and flexibility in settings. Astrill VPN also offers a "Smart Mode" feature that allows users to split traffic and use the VPN only for selected websites, which can speed up internet performance.

Disadvantages of Astrill VPN  

The main drawback of Astrill VPN is its high cost compared to competitors. Additionally, some users note that the interface may seem complex for beginners, especially given the large number of settings. Another downside is the limited number of simultaneous connections — up to five devices—which may not be enough for some users.

Astrill VPN Pricing  

Astrill VPN offers several pricing plans, with a base cost of around $20 per month. Discounts are available when purchasing a subscription for a longer period (6 months or a year), but even with discounts, the service remains one of the most expensive on the market.

Supported Platforms  

Astrill VPN supports a wide range of devices and operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. The service can also be set up on routers, allowing you to protect the entire home network.

User Reviews  

Many users highly rate Astrill VPN for its reliability and ability to bypass complex internet blocks. The use of Astrill VPN is particularly popular in countries with strict censorship, where other VPNs may be less effective. However, the high cost and complex interface may deter some users.

Recommendation  

Astrill VPN is an excellent choice for those who need a high-speed and reliable VPN service capable of bypassing strict internet restrictions. It is especially recommended for users living in countries with active internet censorship, where speed and reliability are crucial. However, its high price and complexity of use may make it less appealing to those looking for more affordable and user-friendly solutions. Astrill VPN receives high marks for performance and security, but its cost should be considered before making a decision.

9. Private Internet Access (PIA)  

Private Internet Access (PIA) is one of the most popular VPN services on the market, known for its reliability and wide range of features. PIA offers a high level of privacy and data protection, as well as numerous customization options, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced users.

Advantages of PIA  

PIA offers several key advantages, including support for strong AES-256 encryption and compatibility with various protocols such as OpenVPN and WireGuard. One of the main benefits of PIA is its extensive server network—over 35,000 servers in 84 countries—ensuring excellent speed and the ability to bypass geographic restrictions. PIA also offers a built-in ad and tracker blocker, which enhances the overall internet browsing experience.

Disadvantages of PIA  

Despite its many advantages, PIA has some drawbacks. One of the main concerns is the company's location in the United States, which may raise privacy concerns for users due to local surveillance laws. Additionally, the app interface may seem complex for beginners because of the large number of settings and options.

PIA Pricing  

PIA offers several subscription options: a monthly plan for $11.99, a yearly plan for $3.33 per month (billed as $39.95 for the first year), and a three-year plan for $2.03 per month (billed as $79 for three years). These prices make PIA a competitive option on the market, especially for users willing to commit to long-term contracts.

Supported Platforms  

PIA supports a wide range of devices and operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. The service also offers browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Opera, as well as the option to install it on routers to protect the entire home network.

User Reviews  

User reviews of PIA are mostly positive. Customers praise the service for its high speed, reliability, and extensive server network. The ad and tracker blocker is particularly highlighted as a useful feature. However, some users express concerns about the company's location and mention the complexity of the interface for beginners.

Recommendation  

Private Internet Access (PIA) is an excellent choice for those looking for a powerful and flexible VPN service with a wide server network and fine-tuning options. Its ad blocker and support for multiple platforms make it an attractive option for those who value multifunctionality. However, if privacy is your main priority, you should consider the company's location in the United States before purchasing. PIA receives high marks for its features and performance but may not be ideal for those seeking a very simple and intuitive interface.

10.Hotspot Shield

Hotspot Shield is a popular VPN service known for its high speed and accessibility. The service offers a wide selection of servers worldwide and supports modern encryption protocols, ensuring user security and privacy online. Hotspot Shield is especially popular among those looking for a fast and convenient way to bypass regional blocks and protect their data.

Advantages of Hotspot Shield

The main advantage of Hotspot Shield is its high connection speed, making it an ideal choice for streaming and watching videos online. By using the proprietary Catapult Hydra protocol, the service provides a significantly faster connection compared to most other VPNs. Hotspot Shield also offers a wide selection of servers in over 80 countries, giving users access to content from around the world. In addition, the service supports military-grade encryption (AES-256), ensuring your data is protected from hackers.

Disadvantages of Hotspot Shield

One of the main drawbacks of Hotspot Shield is its privacy policy. While the service claims data security, there have been instances in the past where it retained some user activity logs. Additionally, some users complain about pop-up ads in the free version of the app, which can be annoying. Another downside is the limitation on using premium features in the free version.

Hotspot Shield Pricing

Hotspot Shield offers several pricing plans, including a free version with limited features and paid subscriptions. The cost of the paid plan starts at $7.99 per month with an annual subscription, making it relatively affordable compared to other premium VPN services. There is also a 7-day free trial available.

Supported Platforms

Hotspot Shield supports all major platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux. The service also offers browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox, allowing users to use the VPN without installing a full app. The support for multiple platforms makes it convenient to use on any device.

User Reviews

Users often praise Hotspot Shield for its speed and ease of use. Many note that the service is excellent at bypassing regional blocks and provides high-quality streaming. However, some users criticize the service for pop-up ads in the free version and express concerns about its privacy policy.

Recommendation

Hotspot Shield is a great choice for those who prioritize speed and ease of use. The service is ideal for streaming and accessing blocked content, thanks to its high-speed servers and a wide range of locations. However, if absolute privacy and an ad-free experience are important to you, consider the premium version or other VPN services. Hotspot Shield receives high marks for its speed and accessibility but may not be suitable for users who prioritize privacy above all else.

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Frequently Asked Questions About VPN

Can I use a VPN to watch YouTube?  

Yes, you can use a VPN to access YouTube, especially if access to the platform is restricted or blocked in your region. With a VPN, you can connect to a server in another country where YouTube is accessible and watch videos without restrictions. A VPN also helps bypass geographic blocks that may limit access to certain content on YouTube. However, it's important to choose a VPN service that provides sufficient speed for comfortable video streaming, especially in high quality.

Can a VPN slow down my internet connection?  

Yes, using a VPN can slightly slow down your internet connection because your traffic is routed through an additional server and encrypted. However, modern VPN services, like Hotspot Shield and Mullvad, minimize this slowdown by using optimized servers and protocols. In some cases, a VPN can even improve connection speed, especially if your internet service provider is throttling certain websites.

How safe is it to use a VPN?  

Using a VPN is safe if you choose a reliable service with a good reputation. Reliable VPNs use modern encryption methods (such as AES-256), which protect your data from interception and hacking. It is also important to choose a VPN with a "no-logs" policy, which does not store information about your online activities.