Hotspot Shield alternatives: 5 apps ranked by verified data
Common reasons people leave Hotspot Shield: hydra protocol is proprietary, and past privacy controversies. We ranked 5 alternatives by how directly each one replaces Hotspot Shield, then by reviews, real visits and how recently each app's facts were checked against its own website. Proton VPN currently ranks first.
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Show all 5 alternativesThe best Hotspot Shield alternative for…
The highest-ranked app in this list for each need.
Best Hotspot Shield alternative for most people
Proton VPNFree tier with no data cap and open-source, audited apps.
Best Hotspot Shield alternative for a free plan you can upgrade
TunnelBearBeginner-friendly app with a long record of public audits.
Best Hotspot Shield alternative for open source
WindscribeFree plan with more locations and open-source desktop app.
Best Hotspot Shield alternative for Mac
ExpressVPNSimilar speed focus with its own open-source Lightway protocol.
Best Hotspot Shield alternative for Linux
Proton VPNFree tier with no data cap and open-source, audited apps.
Best Hotspot Shield alternative for iPhone and Android
Proton VPNFree tier with no data cap and open-source, audited apps.
Hotspot Shield alternatives: common questions
What is the best alternative to Hotspot Shield?
Proton VPN ranks first right now. Free tier with no data cap and open-source, audited apps. TunnelBear and ExpressVPN follow it in our ranking.
Is there a free alternative to Hotspot Shield?
Yes. Proton VPN (free plan + paid), TunnelBear (free plan + paid) and Windscribe (free plan + paid) have a free option. Check each app's verified facts for current plan limits.
Is there an open-source alternative to Hotspot Shield?
Yes: Proton VPN and Windscribe.
Which Hotspot Shield alternatives work on Linux?
Proton VPN, ExpressVPN, CyberGhost VPN and Windscribe run on Linux.
Why do people switch from Hotspot Shield?
The complaints we hear most: hydra protocol is proprietary; past privacy controversies; free tier limited to one device and fewer locations.
How is this list ranked?
Every app is scored with the same published formula: how directly it replaces Hotspot Shield, reviews (weighted by verification), visits from AppBreakup, how recently its facts were checked against its own website, and reader votes.