Best VPNs for Russia

It’s easy to see why VPNs are popular with internet users in Russia. Find out how the best VPNs for Russia protect your privacy while bypassing ever tighter online restrictions. 

Russia accelerated its crackdown on free speech after its invasion of Ukraine, blocking websites such as the BBC, Voice of America, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Deutsche Welle, and many others. A VPN is a great way to bypass any online restrictions in Russia, allowing users to access any blocked sites, apps, and services from abroad. However, a number of VPNs were banned in June 2021. In response, many VPN services have since withdrawn from the region.

Some VPNs may have left Russia, but you’ll still be able to use a provider while you’re in the country. Good VPNs refuse to comply with state censorship, and no longer have servers in Russia itself. You’ll still be able to connect to VPN servers in countries like the US, the UK, or many regions in Europe.

A VPN works to hide your IP address, encrypting your connection so Russian ISPs will have no idea about what you’re up to. The same goes for anyone else who is interested in tracking your online movements. We’ll take you through each of the best VPNs in detail below, for now, here's a quick summary:

Best VPNs for Russia:

1. NordVPN: The best VPN for Russia. Respected provider with high-speed servers and strong security for users in Russia and elsewhere. Will access many blocked sites and services, has unique features, and audited apps and infrastructure. Comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee. 
2. Surfshark: Our top budget VPN for Russia. Unlimited simultaneous devices, RAM-only servers in 100+ countries, advanced privacy features, streaming access, and audited apps. 
3. ExpressVPN: Polished provider with servers in 105+ countries. Perfect for streaming, fast connection speeds, custom protocol, and beginner-friendly apps for all major devices.
4. Proton VPN: Provider predominantly focused on improving privacy and security. Advanced features and a capable free tier with some limitations. Russian server locations. 
5. CyberGhost: Optimized servers for streaming and torrenting, lots of European locations, and user-friendly apps for all devices. Russian servers. 
6. IPVanish: Unlimited device connections, ideal for torrenting, and gives access to various blocked services in Russia. 

Summary Table

If you’re in need of a VPN for Russia, there’s a long list of services that will get the job done. We've been able to narrow the field with our inclusion criteria. Here are some of the non-negotiable characteristics we looked for when picking out the best providers for Russia:

• A strong network with various locations to connect to, whether in nearby European countries, or regions like the US and Asia    
• Connection speeds will dictate how well you’ll be able to perform almost any online task  
• Streaming access for popular platforms, as well as allowing the user to bypass any restrictions on sites from abroad 
• Privacy and security, including everything from notable features to available protocols
• In order to qualify for one of the top three positions, the VPN must operate a 100% diskless server network and have had its infrastructure audited by a reputable third party

For more information about the specific criteria we used for picking the best VPNs for Russia, check out the testing methodology section found later in this article.

Best VPNs for Russia

Here’s a roundup with detailed information about each of the VPNs that have made it onto this list.

NordVPN is our top pick, as long as you don’t need a server in Russia itself. The operator withdrew from the country in 2019, in response to being told to automatically block its users' access to blacklisted websites.

The service is based in Panama, which is perfect when considering local privacy laws. It comes with a large network of 6,000+ high-speed (200 Mbps) servers in 60+ countries. Nord is one of the few services to have audited apps and infrastructure, offering peace of mind thanks to a verified no-logs policy.

Unique features include the custom NordLynx protocol which allows for average speeds of 200 Mbps. Another notable addition is Meshnet, which allows the user to create private tunnels between devices. Meshnet is available free of charge without a subscription. 

For users who’d like to access streaming services from home while in Russia, Nord works with a large list of popular platforms such as Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. SmartPlay is an integrated Smart DNS technology that works automatically, so anyone can easily watch content in Russia via a range of popular platforms while shielded by the VPN. 

Threat Protection blocks malicious websites, adverts, and malware, and it prevents web tracking. Double VPN works as a form of MultiHop and is one of many advanced features designed to improve privacy. 

We’d look elsewhere for a Russian IP address, and it lacks port forwarding, but Nord is undoubtedly one of the best in the business. 

THE BEST VPN FOR RUSSIA: NordVPN is a capable provider for users in Russia. Excellent security, fast speeds, and various unique features that are designed to improve privacy. Comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of NordVPN.

Surfshark chose to withdraw from Russia in 2019, rather than adhering to a request to block specific websites for Russian users. The provider has a large network with coverage in 100+ countries, so there’s a host of nearby locations to select from. You’ll also find speedy (188 Mbps) servers in popular locations like the US and Germany. 

These can be used for torrenting or streaming, and it will work to access lots of blocked sites and services in Russia. 

It comes with apps for macOS, Android, Windows, iOS, and Linux, allowing the user to connect unlimited simultaneous devices with a single account. As such, it’s easy to share with others, further cementing its place as the best low-cost option for Russian users. 

Surfshark uses RAM-only servers, while its applications have been independently audited. Additional features include a sturdy kill switch, as well as split tunneling, obfuscation, and MultiHop. Rotating IPs regularly switch your address for added privacy, while CleanWeb provides ad, tracker, and malware blocking whenever the user is connected to the VPN. 

It’s based in the Netherlands, which isn’t ideal, even if there’s little chance of the nation sharing information with Russia.

THE BEST BUDGET VPN FOR RUSSIA: Surfshark fits a lot into a low-cost package. Unlimited device connections, various advanced features like CleanWeb and rotating IPs, servers in 100+ countries, no-logs, streaming support, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of Surfshark.

ExpressVPN is another capable pick for users in Russia despite withdrawing from the country in 2019. 

The provider has a vast network found in 105+ countries, and it is able to bypass the toughest geo-blocks to access content in various locations worldwide. For example, Express worked with 24 Netflix catalogs during testing, so it’s a viable solution if you’re hoping to access numerous sites and services securely. 

Long seen as an industry leader, ExpressVPN ticks a number of boxes for Russian users. For example, you’ll find split tunneling, obfuscation, and a sturdy kill switch (Network Lock). It’s based in the British Virgin Islands, ensuring that there are no jurisdictional headaches. 

As well as beginner-friendly apps for every major platform, it comes with custom router firmware, and will automatically pick the best server based on your current location. Average speeds work out to roughly 175 Mbps, so it’s no slouch.  

However, ExpressVPN might not be the best option if you’re hoping for a low-cost solution, even if it is easy to get to grips with. 

RELIABLE VPN FOR RUSSIA: ExpressVPN is a reliable service that is perfect for beginner users. High-speed connections in a range of locations, and unmatched in terms of accessing blocked sites and apps. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of ExpressVPN.

Proton VPN is a viable solution if you’re in need of a Russian IP address. The provider uses virtual servers to provide coverage in the country, with 16+ found in Saint Petersburg. 

The majority of Proton servers (3,000+) offer IP addresses that match the country you have chosen to connect to. This isn’t possible in Russia, so the VPN uses a virtual server which is physically located in another country as a workaround. A virtual server doesn’t tend to be an issue, as long as you know where it’s really located. 

Arguably best known for being developed by the team behind ProtonMail, the VPN service comes with various advanced features that will be helpful for users in Russia. For example, it is one of the few providers to offer port forwarding and the StealthVPN feature obfuscates your connection. It offers Tor over VPN servers, while hardware acceleration boosts average speeds up to 320 Mbps. 

It’s also a solid option if you’re in need of a free VPN for Russia. There are various limitations compared to the premium edition, but the freemium will keep your data safe, and there’s no chance of any leaks in the meantime.  

SECURE RUSSIAN SERVERS: Proton VPN is a reputable service with secure servers and advanced features for users in Russia. Free version might be helpful, with streaming support and impressive speeds. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of Proton VPN.

CyberGhost is another top pick for Russian users. 

As with Proton, CyberGhost has opted to host virtual locations in Russia, with a total of 60+ in Moscow. This is one of the largest collections you’ll find at the time of writing, as part of a network which consists of 10,000+ servers in 100+ countries. You’ll also be able to use the Moscow location for P2P, and it’s perfect for getting a Russian IP address from abroad.

The provider also works well with a vast selection of streaming services, with servers that are clearly labeled and optimized for each platform. This includes access to streaming services in 22+ countries, making it easy to click and connect to get started. Average speeds work out to 298 Mbps. 

A beginner-friendly option in terms of everything from apps to support, it is missing out on a few advanced privacy features, which can be a bit disconcerting for users in Russia. For example, it’s lacking obfuscation, which is always helpful if you’d like it to appear as though you’re not using a VPN in the first place. 

STREAMING OPTIMIZED SERVERS: CyberGhost is ideal if you’d like to regain access to blocked streaming apps in a long list of countries. Can be used for a Russian IP address, has speedy servers in 91+ countries, beginner-friendly apps, and watertight encryption. 45-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of CyberGhost VPN.

IPVanish was one of the first providers to remove its physical servers from Moscow back in 2016. This was in response to data retention laws that would compel VPNs to “record the data about any user that connects to a server physically located within the surveillance nation and store it for an entire year.” As such, it's a good choice if you're aiming to avoid the Russian government. 

IPVanish has a dedicated network of 2,200+ self-owned servers in 75+ locations worldwide. You’ll be able to connect with an unlimited number of devices, and it offers obfuscation, split tunneling, and access to a SOCKS5 proxy. It protects against IPv6 leaks, as part of a wide range of advanced security features. 

IPVanish doesn’t monitor or store any records of your online activities, and the service has been audited by Leviathan Security Group.  

Streaming is a breeze if you’re hoping to access various services from the US, including social media platforms. IPVanish being headquartered in the country could be seen as a risk because of the various alphabet agencies that work within the jurisdiction. Average speeds work out to 251 Mbps. 

SPEEDY US SERVERS: IPVanish is accessible in Russia, and will give the user access to lots of speedy servers in the US and elsewhere. One of the first providers to exit the country which bodes well for security, works with unlimited devices, and is great for streaming. Offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of IPVanish.

Methodology: How we chose the best VPNs for Russia 

Rather than picking out providers at random, we’ve compiled a comprehensive VPN testing methodology. We test and compare the best VPNs in the business. 

Our strict criteria mean that only providers dedicated to digital privacy, with excellent usability and optimal performance, can make it onto our list. Below, you can see the criteria we used to pick the best VPNs for Russia:

• Servers: Normally, we’d look for servers in the country itself, but Russia is an exception. Virtual Russian servers are a bonus, but we’ll focus on popular locations such as the US and the UK. Ideally, the VPN will have locations in nearby countries too. 
• Speeds and performance: Fast connection speeds will ensure no lag, even if you’re connecting to servers located halfway around the world. The VPN needs to be reliable, especially if you’re planning to stream content from abroad.   
• Privacy and security: How does the VPN perform in terms of security and privacy? We look at features, their implementation, and everything from leak protection to encryption and protocols. 
• Third-party audits: Trust is the foundation of the value that VPNs provide. You are essentially placing more faith in your VPN provider than you are in your ISP. Almost every provider says they are a ‘no logs' VPN. The only ways to test this claim are either through the courts or through audits. We will only consider providers for our top three positions if they have undergone infrastructure audits from a reputable third party. While this isn't foolproof, it's the closest the industry has to a verification process for logging policies.
• Diskless infrastructure: Again, this is a prerequisite to be considered for one of the top three positions on BleepingComputer. While the data stored on a VPN server should be minimal, it could, theoretically, be accessed if the servers were seized or hacked. Moving processes to RAM means that no information can be physically taken from servers and it is wiped on shutdown. It can also easily be wiped as a part of regular security procedures.

How to use a VPN in Russia 

Here’s how to set up a VPN in Russia:

1. Pick a VPN service. We’ve listed various options for Russia above, but we particularly recommend NordVPN.
2. Sign up, and download the app to your device. 
3. Open the VPN app, and log in. 
4. Select a server location to connect to. 
5. Once connected, you’ll be free to access blocked sites and services with your new IP address. 

That’s all it takes to get started. You’ll be able to access content available in the region that you’ve connected to, and your data will be encrypted in the process. For Russian expats who would like access sites and services from home, you’ll just need to pick a VPN with virtual servers in Russia to access blocked RU services. VPNs are one of the best methods for bypassing online censorship. 

Russia VPN FAQs

Should I use a free VPN for Russia?

We’d strongly advise against using a free provider, especially in a country like Russia which frowns upon VPN usage. Free providers are always going to be a security risk, especially as some VPNs lack everything from basic encryption to a kill switch. It’s not a smart option if you’re aiming to avoid leaks of any kind. 

Free services are also likely to monetize users, whether it’s via an influx of adverts and tracking cookies, or selling your data on to third parties. You’re also going to struggle to find a freemium service with solid performance. The majority of free VPNs will limit speeds, streaming, bandwidth, locations, and more in an effort to tempt users over to a premium version of the software. 

Are VPNs legal in Russia? 

It’s a gray area, as VPNs are legal as long as they’ve been approved by the state. However, a number of providers have been blocked or banned in recent years, including the likes of ExpressVPN, NordVPN, IPVanish, and Proton Mail. In response, these services have pulled out of the country, offering virtual locations, or obfuscated servers.

Why have some VPNs pulled out of Russia?

Various VPNs have pulled out of Russia in response to draconian requests by the government to block sites and services for any users in the country. For example, each of the providers listed above has withdrawn from offering physical server locations in Russia itself.

What sites and apps have been blocked in Russia?

Various sites and services have been blocked in Russia, with the number growing in frequency since its invasion of Ukraine. This extends to VPN services, news sites, and secure messaging apps. 

Some of the blocked apps and websites in Russia include:

• Facebook 
• Instagram 
• Twitter 
• BBC News 
• Deutche Welle 
• Amnesty International 
• Radio Free Liberty 
• Voice of America 
• Bellingcat 
• Euronews
• Quora 
• Many Ukrainian news sites 
• Several foreign currency and cryptocurrency exchanges

Anything to do with world news or the war in Ukraine is likely to be restricted. You will be able to access any of the sites listed above securely with a trustworthy VPN. 

Can I get a Russian IP address with a VPN?

Yes, as long as the VPN has servers in Russia. To get a Russian IP address, you just have to connect to the Russian server location. As we’ve discussed above, ideally it will be a virtual server in this instance. This also works for users in Russia to get an IP address from elsewhere, which can be used to access many blocked sites and online services.