Want to browse the dark web safely? Start with the right VPN. Here’s a quick guide to the top VPNs for privacy and security in 2025. These VPNs protect your identity, encrypt your data, and work seamlessly with Tor. Below are the best options, their standout features, and pricing:

Key VPNs for Dark Web Access:

• NordVPN: Best overall security with Onion over VPN, Dark Web Monitor, and speeds over 200 Mbps. Starts at $3.09/month.

• ExpressVPN: Fastest option with RAM-only servers, Lightway protocol, and built-in obfuscation. Starts at $4.99/month.

• ProtonVPN: Maximum privacy with Swiss jurisdiction, Secure Core routing, and Tor integration. Starts at $4.49/month.

• Surfshark: Budget-friendly with MultiHop connections, CleanWeb ad blocker, and NoBorders mode. Starts at $2.49/month.

• CyberGhost: Affordable long-term plans, NoSpy servers, and RAM-only infrastructure. Starts at $2.19/month.

Quick Comparison Table:

Pro Tip: Avoid free VPNs – they often come with weak encryption and data leaks. For secure dark web access, invest in a paid VPN and always use a Tor-over-VPN setup for maximum anonymity.

3 BEST VPNs for Tor Browser (& Onion Over VPN) in 2025

1. NordVPN

NordVPN is a top choice for accessing the dark web in 2025, combining strong security features with user-friendly functionality. Headquartered in Panama, it operates outside the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance jurisdiction, ensuring privacy through a strict no-logs policy. This policy has been independently verified by four Deloitte audits ^[3].

The service employs AES 256-bit encryption and the SHA-512 hash function, with an extensive network of over 7,400 servers in 118 countries ^[2][3].

NordVPN’s commitment to privacy was evident in October 2024. When presented with a binding warrant by Panama authorities, the company could only provide basic account details due to its no-logs policy – no browsing or connection data was available ^[3].

“As VPN services go, it’s hard to beat NordVPN. It has a large and diverse collection of servers, an excellent collection of advanced features, strong privacy and security practices, and approachable clients for every major platform.”
– Max Eddy, Software analyst, PCMag ^[2]

For safer dark web browsing, consider these steps:

• Pay with cryptocurrency

• Use a throwaway email for registration

• Activate the Dark Web Monitor feature

• Connect through Onion over VPN servers

NordVPN supports up to 10 simultaneous connections and is compatible with major platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS ^[2]. Its robust security measures, such as private DNS servers and regular third-party audits, make it a reliable choice for navigating the dark web ^[3].

2. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN stands out as a reliable choice for accessing the dark web, thanks to its strong security measures and proven performance. Based in the British Virgin Islands – beyond the reach of the 14 Eyes Alliance – the service enforces a strict no-logs policy, confirmed by 12 independent audits in 2022 ^[4]. Here’s a quick look at its key features:

As of July 2023, ExpressVPN increased its simultaneous connection limit from 5 to 8 devices ^[4].

“We do not collect logs of your activity, including no logging of browsing history, traffic destination, data content, or DNS queries.” – ExpressVPN Privacy Policy ^[4]

ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol ensures fast connections, while its Threat Manager blocks 60% of ads and trackers ^[4][5].

Pricing Options:

• Annual Plan: $100/year (includes 3 bonus months)

• Semi-Annual Plan: $60/6 months

• Monthly Plan: $13/month ^[4]

Another privacy boost comes from its use of diskless servers, which don’t store user data ^[5]. This setup has earned ExpressVPN a privacy rating of 9.2/10 and an overall rating of 9.3/10 ^[5].

For better anonymity on the dark web, consider these tips: enable the Network Lock feature, pay with cryptocurrency, create a dedicated email for VPN registration, and carefully configure split tunneling on Android devices ^[4].

ExpressVPN also includes built-in obfuscation technology to bypass network restrictions while keeping your identity protected. Together with its Threat Manager and zero-knowledge DNS system, it offers a solid layer of security for dark web activities ^[5].

3. ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN, created by the same team behind ProtonMail in 2017, is designed with a focus on secure access to the dark web. Based in Switzerland, it offers a range of security tools:

ProtonVPN’s Secure Core setup routes your traffic through multiple servers in privacy-focused regions, adding an extra layer of protection. This makes it a strong option for navigating the dark web securely.

Users often praise its reliability and privacy features. However, server speeds in the United States may drop during peak times. Regular independent audits confirm the service’s dedication to safeguarding user privacy.

For the best protection, enable features like Secure Core, a kill switch, DNS leak prevention, and Perfect Forward Secrecy. The verified no-logs policy further strengthens its privacy credentials.

ProtonVPN blends advanced security measures with privacy-focused tools, making it a solid choice for secure dark web browsing.

4. Surfshark

Surfshark is a reliable VPN choice for accessing the dark web, offering strong security features. Headquartered in Lithuania and registered in the British Virgin Islands, it has passed independent security audits by Cure53 and Deloitte, confirming its privacy measures.

The MultiHop feature increases privacy by routing your connection through two servers. Although Surfshark doesn’t include Tor over VPN, its NoBorders mode helps bypass strict internet censorship.

Additional security features include:

• Private DNS on all servers

• Obfuscated servers for stealthier connections

• CleanWeb to block malicious websites

• GPS override for Android devices

These tools make Surfshark a strong choice for safely navigating the dark web.

“Privacy policies are important, but I don’t think customers should have to take a VPN provider’s words on trust. That’s why I’m happy to see that Surfshark has put its service through no less than three independent security audits.” – TechRadar ^[6]

“To sum up, Cure53 is highly satisfied to see such a strong security posture on the Surfshark VPN proxy extension, especially given the common vulnerability of similar products to privacy issues.” – Cure53 ^[6]

For the best protection while accessing the dark web, activate these key features:

• MultiHop connections: Add an extra layer of security by routing traffic through multiple servers.

• Kill Switch: Prevent accidental IP exposure if the VPN connection drops.

• CleanWeb: Block harmful websites and ads.

• NoBorders mode: Overcome restrictions in heavily censored areas.

Surfshark has been praised for its encryption and leak prevention, earning a 4.8/5 rating from experts and users alike.

5. CyberGhost

CyberGhost wraps up our review with its strong dark web security features. With a network of over 7,000 servers in 90 countries, it provides extensive coverage. Based in Romania – outside the 14-Eyes alliance – it offers added privacy for users exploring the dark web.

CyberGhost’s RAM-only servers ensure that all data is erased during reboots, while its NoSpy servers minimize third-party interference, enhancing user privacy.

Key Points to Consider

• Privacy: While CyberGhost doesn’t log user activity, it does share account-related data with its parent and affiliated companies ^[7].

• Kill Switch: The kill switch feature may occasionally underperform ^[7].

• Speed: Performance tests indicate an average speed drop of about 30% ^[7].

“We ensure that we do NOT track user traffic performed inside the CyberGhost VPN tunnel such as: browsing history, traffic destination, search preferences, data content, IP addresses or DNS queries.” – CyberGhost’s no-logs policy ^[7]

Tips for Using CyberGhost on the Dark Web

• Pay with Bitcoin to maintain anonymity.

• Regularly test the kill switch to ensure it’s functioning.

• Disable diagnostic data sharing during setup.

• Use NoSpy servers whenever possible for added security.

• Check quarterly transparency reports for updates on privacy practices.

CyberGhost pricing starts at $13/month, with a two-year plan available for $57 for the first 28 months, offering substantial savings. Independent Deloitte audits back its security claims, though a CNET rating of 5.8/10 ^[7] highlights concerns about data sharing and occasional performance issues.

Feature Comparison

Here’s a breakdown of how the leading VPN providers stack up in key areas for secure dark web access. We’ll focus on encryption, privacy policies, and performance for anonymous browsing.

Privacy and Logging Practices

NordVPN and ExpressVPN stand out for their privacy safeguards. Both enforce strict no-logs policies, ensuring minimal data retention. ExpressVPN’s commitment to privacy was proven in 2017 when Turkish authorities seized their servers but found no user information ^[8].

Tor Compatibility and Dark Web Features

When it comes to dark web browsing, NordVPN and ProtonVPN offer tailored setups that prioritize anonymity. As highlighted in reviews:

“NordVPN is the best VPN provider we’ve tested, and we think it’s perfect for anyone who wants unmatched security and privacy when browsing the dark web.”
– AllAboutCookies.org ^[1]

Security Standards and Jurisdiction

All providers use AES 256-bit encryption – the gold standard for VPN security. NordVPN and ProtonVPN go a step further, offering advanced options like Double VPN and Secure Core for added protection. Jurisdiction also plays a key role in privacy. NordVPN (Panama) and ExpressVPN (British Virgin Islands) operate outside major surveillance alliances, while ProtonVPN benefits from Switzerland’s strong privacy laws. Surfshark, based in the Netherlands, enforces robust privacy measures, and CyberGhost, headquartered in Romania, operates outside the 14-Eyes alliance.

Performance and Security Balance

Each provider offers a unique balance of speed and security. NordVPN minimizes speed loss while maintaining strong protections. ExpressVPN strikes an effective balance between performance and privacy, while CyberGhost experiences more noticeable speed reductions. These differences are crucial for dark web access, where faster connections enable smoother Tor operations.

Summary and Recommendations

Here are our top picks for dark web VPNs in 2025:

Best Overall: NordVPN

NordVPN stands out for its strong security features paired with reliable performance. Starting at just $3.09/month, it offers built-in Onion over VPN support, making it a great all-around choice.

Best for Maximum Privacy: ProtonVPN

If privacy is your top priority, ProtonVPN is the way to go. Based in Switzerland, it allows anonymous sign-ups, accepts cryptocurrency payments, and includes Tor integration for added security.

Best for Performance: ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is the go-to option for speed. It minimizes speed reductions to just 14% ^[9] while maintaining high security with its RAM-only servers and automatic obfuscation.

Best Budget Option: CyberGhost

CyberGhost is perfect for those looking for an affordable option. At $2.19/month for long-term plans, it offers a no-logs policy and regular transparency reports, making it both cost-effective and trustworthy.

Here’s a quick comparison of our recommended VPNs: