How to buy a VPN with Bitcoin in 2023 - Secure and fast

Want to purchase a VPN subscription anonymously? We recommend VPNs that accept Bitcoin so you can buy a subscription without connecting your bank card or PayPal to the transaction.

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a privacy tool, and it should come as no surprise that some people seeking online privacy would prefer to purchase a VPN subscription without associating their real name and financial details with the transaction. A few reliable VPNs accept cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, which allow anybody to buy a VPN subscription anonymously using Bitcoin and a burner email.

A VPN is a useful tool for internet users living in countries where Bitcoin is banned and cryptocurrencies are censored. They enable users to access foreign markets, establish crypto wallets, and trade on exchanges without restrictions.

In this guide, we'll explore the best VPNs for Bitcoin users and explain how anybody can buy a VPN subscription without leaving a trace of who or where you are. We will take a closer look at the distinction between 'privacy' and 'anonymity’ and explain how to use Bitcoin effectively to enhance your anonymity.

The list below gives a glimpse into the most secure and reliable VPNs that allow Bitcoin payments. Our recommendations let you pay without linking your real name, bank account, or other personal financial details to the VPN service. This enhances your privacy by adding an additional layer of anonymity to your VPN account. 

Here are the best VPNs to buy with Bitcoin:

1. NordVPN: The best VPN for Bitcoin users. NordVPN offers fast speeds, reliability, and exceptional levels of online privacy and digital security. With a vast server network and a solid no-logs policy, it ensures you gain privacy for your traffic at home, at work, and on public WiFi. Has a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Surfshark: Best low-cost VPN for Bitcoin users. Known for its speed and security, Surfshark boasts a no-logs policy and unlimited connections at an affordable price. It is fast and works with tons of popular streaming services, including Netflix.
3. ExpressVPN: With an unwavering commitment to user privacy and security, ExpressVPN stands out for its Bitcoin payment option. Its proprietary protocol is built to give you faster speeds and has Tier-1 servers in 94+ countries. It also works in restrictive regions like China and the Middle East.
4. Proton VPN: A highly secure no-log VPN that comes with a ton of advanced features, including Tor over VPN, MultiHop, and Secure Core servers. Proton VPN accepts Bitcoin payments and is perfect for torrenting thanks to its port forwarding feature.
5. CyberGhost VPN: An excellent choice for beginners. CyberGhost is easy to use and accepts Bitcoin payments for added anonymity. Has a large server network that spans 90+ countries. Strong encryption and a kill switch ensure privacy at home and on public WiFi. 
6. PrivateVPN: Allows direct Bitcoin payments without intermediaries. Strong no-logs policy, and allows port forwarding for torrenting. Works with over a dozen Netflix regions and tons of other popular services.

Summary Table

Buying the perfect VPN with Bitcoin can be overwhelming, especially for newcomers. Misleading claims regarding VPN speeds and security often cause people to buy unreliable VPNs that don't offer robust online protection or suffer from inadequate speeds.

It is easy to happen on VPNs plagued by critical issues like DNS leaks, weak encryption, and vulnerabilities that compromise your privacy. We carefully review the market not just for VPNs that accept Bitcoin, but that are also equipped with market-leading security features and privacy policies.

Later in this guide, we will provide additional information about how we test and recommend VPNs. For now, here are some of the criteria we used to pick the best VPNs for Bitcoin:

• Allows you to pay using Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies.
• Access to popular streaming platforms from around the globe.
• Lightning-fast protocols and servers that can stream in HD.
• Allows peer-to-peer connections for torrenting.
• 24/7 customer support with knowledgeable agents.
• Strong security and privacy features, including a no-logs policy and rock-solid encryption.
• A choice of apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and more.
• A money-back guarantee to try the VPN risk-free.
• Global server network to bypass censorship and region locks.
• Decent value for money.
• In order to qualify for one of the top three positions, the VPN provider must operate a 100% diskless server network and have had its infrastructure audited by a reputable third party.

Best VPNs for Bitcoin: Detailed reviews

All the VPNs recommended in this guide let you pay using Bitcoin. They are highly reliable services that permit you to use the internet without being tracked by local networks, ISPs, government agencies, and other eavesdroppers. That said, they all have some distinct features and advantages. The summaries below explain these differences so you can get the best VPN for your personal needs.

NordVPN is based in Panama and it has a solid no-logging policy that never keeps records of the servers you use or your online browsing activities. It accepts Bitcoin via BitPay for all of its plans, and paying with crypto doesn't invalidate the 30-day money-back guarantee – a rarity. 

An email address is needed to sign up, but you can combine Bitcoin payments with a burner email to sign up with as much anonymity as possible. You could even sign up while connected to public WiFi to keep every single potentially traceable dataset out of the VPN's hands at the time of purchase.

Nord has had its policies, apps, and server network independently audited by a third-party security firm. It runs on diskless servers that exist purely in RAM, and can be remotely erased with a simple reboot.

Apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. They provide a wealth of useful features; a kill switch, DNS leak protection, Tor over VPN, Double VPN, and anti-DDoS protection. 256-bit AES encryption secures your data in transit, making your online activities private whether you connect at home, at work, or on public WiFi.

NordVPN has more than 5,500 servers in 59+ countries. These servers stream popular services like Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, Disney+, Paramount+, Peacock, BBC iPlayer, and many others. You can connect up to six devices at a time.

US customers can pay with cash at Best Buy and Target as an alternative anonymous option.

BEST VPN FOR BITCOIN: NordVPN is fast for streaming and gaming. It offers many impressive features at an excellent price point. You can pay using Bitcoin or cash in the US. Has more than 5,500 servers in 59+ countries. Works to stream popular services like Netflix US. Provides apps for all popular devices. Includes a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of NordVPN.

Surfshark is almost impossible to beat if you want a high-quality VPN that accepts Bitcoin payments at the lowest possible cost. The VPN is packed with features, has apps for all popular platforms, and lets you use the VPN on an unlimited number of devices.

If you want to sign up anonymously, we recommend a burner email address and mixed Bitcoins for added privacy. A wealth of excellent security features include robust 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, DNS leak protection, split tunneling, ad blocking, tracker protection, and a NoBorders mode that helps bypass censorship in places like China.

Surfshark has more than 3,200 servers in 100+ countries, which means you can get an IP address just about anywhere. We found the VPN to be exceptionally fast thanks to the WireGuard protocol. It works to watch Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and many other streaming platforms. It also allows torrenting, but it doesn’t support port forwarding, which some clients require for smooth seeding. 

Live chat support is available 24/7. Best of all, it starts at just $2.50 per month, which is amazing considering the number of features you get. It even throws in a free Smart DNS service.

BEST BUDGET BITCOIN VPN: Surfshark is highly affordable, accepts various cryptocurrencies, and lets you use the VPN on an unlimited number of devices. It works with tons of popular streaming services, including more than 15 Netflix regions. You can compare it to any other VPN using its 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of Surfshark.

ExpressVPN not only allows Bitcoin payments, but the 30-day money-back guarantee applies to those who pay using crypto. This means you can try the VPN with Bitcoin and still get a refund.

To sign up, you're required to provide an email address, so we'd recommend using a burner email for added anonymity. ExpressVPN never logs your home IP, the servers you connect to, or any of your data. As with Surfshark and NordVPN, ExpressVPN has completed a full third-party audit of its service. It runs on diskless servers that can be remotely erased for added protection. 

ExpressVPN has apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. Those apps offer reliable encryption, a system-level kill switch, and DNS leak protection. Admittedly, it is a touch pricey compared to our top two picks, and it has fewer advanced features. On the plus side, it has servers in 94+ countries that work with streaming services like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and HBO Max. 

Its proprietary Lightway protocol is built for speed. Live chat support is available 24/7. Compare it to any other Bitcoin VPN using its 30-day money-back guarantee. 

FAST AND SECURE: ExpressVPN is a highly secure VPN with a server network that covers 94+ countries. Has apps for all popular operating systems and is compatible with routers. Works with over a dozen Netflix regions and allows torrenting. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of ExpressVPN.

Proton VPN is perfect for advanced users who want a full-featured VPN. The VPN is based in Switzerland, and it prioritizes privacy with a strict no-logging policy. The VPN accepts Bitcoin payments and has a basic free plan that you can get without providing any personal information.

Apps are available for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. They come packed with advanced features like a kill switch, a choice of protocols (including OpenVPN and WireGuard), MultiHop connections, split tunneling, Tor over VPN, and obfuscation.

It is also the best Bitcoin VPN that includes port forwarding, which makes it perfect for users who want to torrent. With servers in over 69 countries, it delivers high-speed connections for HD streaming, gaming, and torrenting, and works to watch a choice of streaming services, including Netflix US and BBC iPlayer.

Proton VPN lacks diskless servers and a full third-party audit, but it does have some servers under its own control (called Secure Core). Though slightly pricier, Proton VPN's feature-rich service justifies its cost, and you can test it with its money-back guarantee. 

BEST BITCOIN VPN FOR TORRENTING: ProtonVPN is an excellent option for techy users who want a wide choice of advanced features. Port forwarding makes it the best VPN for torrenting. Accepts Bitcoin and has a free plan. 30-day money-back guarantee to try it yourself.

Read our full review of Proton VPN.

CyberGhost VPN is a beginner-friendly provider that accepts Bitcoin payments through BitPay. This makes it easy for anybody to acquire enough Bitcoin to pay for the VPN without linking your bank card or PayPal to your VPN account.

The apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android are designed with beginners in mind. They might have fewer features than our top recommendations but they still have 256-bit encryption, a strict no-logs privacy policy, anti-malware, anti-tracking, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and a kill switch. It’s suitable for gaining privacy whether you use the internet at home, at work, or on public WiFi. 

One of the best advantages of CyberGhost VPN is its vast network of over 9,000 servers across 90+ countries. These servers are fast and work to watch streaming channels like Netflix US, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video. A 45-day money-back guarantee applies even if you pay using Bitcoin. 

Live chat support is available 24/7, and we found the agents to be extremely helpful. Bear in mind that it doesn’t work in China or the UAE. 

EASY TO USE: CyberGhost VPN is a fantastic option for beginners. Has streaming optimized servers are listed by country and streaming platform. Reliable security and privacy with zero logs and DNS leak protection. Works to watch Netflix US and many other platforms. 45-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of CyberGhost VPN.

PrivateVPN is a reliable provider based in Sweden. The VPN was launched to protect people’s right to torrent privately, and it has since risen to be one of the most reliable VPNs on the market. The VPN allows torrenting throughout its network and comes with port forwarding which makes it ideal for seeding torrents. A no-logs policy ensures that everything you do online remains confidential, and the VPN provides solid OpenVPN connections with AES encryption and obfuscation. You can pay using Bitcoin for added privacy, and it allows you to wire them directly to its wallet without using Bitpay.

Servers are located in 63+ countries, and they easily work to access more than a dozen Netflix regions as well as most international streaming services. This makes it a fantastic all-rounder, and it is also great value for money.

Live chat support is available on its website 24/7 and you can try the VPN using its 30-day money-back guarantee. Just bear in mind that this VPN is a touch slower than those that we have recommended above. However, in our experience, it works to stream in HD without issues.

SOLID PRIVACY: PrivateVPN is a secure VPN for streaming, gaming privacy, and torrenting safely. Accepts Bitcoin payments via direct transfer. Works to watch Netflix, iPlayer, and many others. Connect up to 10 devices. It includes a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and obfuscation. Has a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of PrivateVPN.

Bitcoin VPN testing methodology

Due to the enormous number of VPN options available, picking a VPN can be hard. Many providers fall short of delivering adequate online protection for your web visits and data, which makes it easy to end up with a VPN that isn't doing its job properly, or worse, harvesting your data for its own purposes.

At BleepingComputer, data privacy and security are paramount to our selection process for VPNs. We only endorse secure and versatile VPNs that we have meticulously tested ourselves.

As part of this process, we check for leaks, encryption scrutiny, kill switch reliability, and download speed analysis for each VPN. We also scrutinize the encryption implementation and examine each VPN’s privacy policies to ensure the service is handling data securely.

You can find out more in our full VPN testing methodology guide. For now, we have included some of the key criteria we consider when recommending the best VPNs compatible with Bitcoin.

• Accepts Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies: You can buy a subscription using Bitcoin and a burner email. We prefer VPNs who honor their money-back guarantees even when purchasing with cryptocurrency.
• Strong security: Each VPN offers reliable encryption, advanced VPN protocols, secure applications, reliable kill switches, and DNS leak protection. Some also feature extras like obfuscation and ad blocking for added privacy. 
• Privacy: We meticulously review the privacy policies of each VPN to ensure zero tracking of your home IP address, connected servers, or browsing activities.
• Fast servers and reliable tunneling protocols: Our recommendations have a Tier-1 network of high-speed servers in dozens of countries.
• Large network: We rigorously test each VPN's capability to access international services like Netflix US, Hulu, and HBO Max. Each VPN has servers in countries needed to access popular Bitcoin exchanges and other crypto-related wallets and services. 
• Cross-platform compatibility: Support for multiple devices including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. Our recommendations work seamlessly on smartphones, tablets, laptops, desktop computers, and in some instances, Firestick and Linux.
• Customer support: We recommend VPNs with reliable support via email and live chat. Most of our recommendations offer 24/7 customer service. 

Our top three picks undergo full third-party security audits, ensuring comprehensive checks for vulnerabilities across their apps, policies, and networks. Additionally, these top picks operate on diskless servers running in RAM, which allows the provider to remotely wipe a server in case of an emergency.

How to buy a VPN subscription anonymously with Bitcoin

Bitcoin is an immutable digital currency that can be traced from one wallet to another due to its attachment to the public ledger system (blockchain). Contrary to common belief, Bitcoin transactions aren't private or anonymous. Thus, understanding the ramifications of the blockchain is essential to understanding Bitcoin's transparency, and we encourage you to do your own research to learn about cryptocurrencies and how they work.

That said, it is true that compared to direct bank payments, Bitcoin offers a degree of privacy. Firstly, it keeps your bank account statement out of your business and prevents your bank or PayPal from showing that you bought a VPN subscription. A bitcoin wallet is not necessarily tied to your identity. Furthermore, there are steps you can take to increase your privacy and anonymity when you purchase a VPN subscription using Bitcoins.

Below, we have included a quick guide of the basic steps you should take to purchase a VPN as privately as possible:

1. Use a secure wallet: Obtain a reputable Bitcoin wallet prioritizing privacy. Consider options like Wasabi Wallet or Samourai Wallet, which offer features to enhance anonymity.
2. Acquire Bitcoin anonymously: Purchase Bitcoin using methods that preserve your anonymity, such as in-person cash transactions or peer-to-peer exchanges that don't require personal information.
3. Mix or tumble your Bitcoin: Use Bitcoin mixing services (tumblers) to scramble your transaction, obscuring the link between your Bitcoin and its origin when making a purchase.
4. Select a privacy-focused VPN provider: Choose a VPN service emphasizing user privacy, including no-logs policies and accepting Bitcoin payments without requiring personal details.
5. Purchase your VPN subscription: Use your privately purchased and anonymized Bitcoin to buy the VPN subscription. Opt for services that allow payment without requiring personally identifiable information, and remember to use a burner email. Also, consider purchasing while connected to a proxy or public WiFi to conceal your IP address at the time of purchase.
6. Regularly rotate your Bitcoin wallet: Periodically change Bitcoin wallets to further obfuscate your transaction history.

By employing these practices, you can significantly enhance your privacy when purchasing a VPN subscription with Bitcoin. Remember, maintaining anonymity online requires a comprehensive approach beyond merely altering your payment method.

Some alternative cryptocurrencies like Ripple, Monero, Zcash, and Dash offer heightened privacy and anonymity compared to Bitcoin. However, not all VPNs accept these alternative cryptocurrencies, so you will need to check with your chosen provider. 

What is a burner email and how to get one

A burner email is a temporary email address that you don’t ordinarily use and is not already attached to other accounts and services registered in your real name. You use it for the specific purpose of buying a VPN subscription and then ‘burn it’ (delete the email account or simply never use it again).

You can register for a burner email using just about any email provider. However, you mustn't provide your real phone number, name, previous email address, or any other personally identifiable data at the time of setting up the email address. We also recommend setting up the email account on public WiFi to conceal your home IP address from the email provider at the time of setting up the account. 

Generally speaking, it is better to use a non-invasive email service known to provide additional privacy when compared to services like Yahoo and Gmail. Instead, we recommend a service like ProtonMail, which is designed to provide you with a private email service and is free. 

Alternatively, you can use a service that is specifically designed to give you a private temporary email account, such as Guerrilla Mail. To maximize your privacy, use them while connected to a VPN.

Take care when creating a burner email address. Some services use shared inboxes, so anyone with the address could potentially access received emails. Create a highly complex and random email address that's unlikely for anyone to accidentally stumble upon.

How to buy a VPN with Bitcoin

Below, we have provided an additional guide that explains part five of the process listed above (purchase your VPN subscription). We’ll explain how to pay for a VPN using Bitcoin.

Assuming you have already followed the other steps and now have some Bitcoin, you are ready to follow the steps below.

7 steps to buy a VPN with Bitcoin:

1. Visit your chosen VPN provider’s website: Head to the website of your preferred VPN provider (NordVPN, for instance) and start the signup process. For added privacy, you can do this on public WiFi to conceal your home IP address at the time of purchase.
2. Select the cryptocurrency payment option: During the signup process, when prompted for payment, locate the Bitcoin or cryptocurrency payment option.
3. Proceed with payment: Your VPN provider probably uses a third-party payment system like BitPay. However, some VPNs do let you wire your Bitcoin directly. We will assume that you checked out as a guest in this guide (for added privacy).
4. Enter your contact details: Provide any necessary contact details, such as your email address. This is based on the payment system used by your VPN provider. Remember to use a burner email and a fake name for added anonymity.
5. Generate the payment URL or QR Code: During checkout, you will receive a payment URL and/or QR code. Use your Bitcoin wallet app on your phone to scan the QR code or copy and paste the URL for payment.
6. Confirm and send the Bitcoin: In your crypto wallet app, confirm the transaction details and send the Bitcoin. Depending on transaction fees and blockchain validation, you might need to wait for verification.
7. Complete signup: Once the payment is confirmed, continue with the signup process as usual (download the VPN app and install it).

If your VPN provider accepts Bitcoin or other cryptocurrency payments, then it probably has a dedicated guide that explains the process on its website.

Will I have to pay transaction fees when buying a VPN with Bitcoin?

Yes. All Bitcoin transactions are subject to transaction fees, and these fees are volatile, which means that they change all the time. If you are willing to wait for your transaction to occur, you can incur a lower transaction fee, so bear this in mind when completing your purchase. 

Unfortunately, Bitcoin transaction fees can be quite high, so you may want to time your purchase strategically and remember to check the transaction fee before making your purchase to avoid paying over the odds for your VPN subscription.

How to access Bitcoin sites and apps

If you live in a country where cryptocurrency exchanges, wallets, and other crypto services are restricted or censored, then you can use a VPN to regain access to these services. This will allow you to trade Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies, or simply to acquire a small amount of Bitcoin to purchase a VPN privately.

A VPN encrypts all internet traffic from your device and directs it through a server in a location of your choice. This allows access to blocked sites and apps by connecting to a server in a Bitcoin-friendly country. The encryption provided by a reliable VPN means you can access Bitcoins and invest without fear of being tracked.

Follow these steps to unblock Bitcoin sites using a VPN:

1. Choose a recommended VPN for Bitcoin: Sign up for a reliable VPN service like NordVPN, which is known for its security and global server coverage.
2. Download and install the VPN app: Once signed up, download and install the VPN app onto your device.
3. Launch the VPN app: Open the VPN app and choose a server located in a country where Bitcoin is legal and accessible.
4. Access the Bitcoin site or app: With the VPN connected to the selected server, visit the website or use the cryptocurrency app you are interested in

By following these steps, you can effortlessly access Bitcoin-related sites and applications that might be restricted in your region. Using a VPN allows access to exchanges and services that are typically limited to specific countries, which can increase your options. However, bear in mind that some exchanges in different regions may require a local payment method to purchase crypto. 

Please remember that regulations surrounding cryptocurrencies vary around the world. Nothing in this guide should be taken as legal advice and the use of a VPN is always at your own risk, so do your own research before deciding to access cryptocurrency services and opting to make cryptocurrency investments. Doing so may be illegal where you live. 

Bitcoin VPN – FAQs

Can I use a free VPN for Bitcoin?

If you want to access Bitcoin services for free with a VPN, you must exercise caution when picking a provider. Many free VPNs are dangerous –avoid them to protect your data and devices.

Proton VPN has a basic free plan that gives you privacy when you access crypto services in countries where they are restricted. The free tier limits bandwidth and access to streaming sites. 

Most free VPNs available on app stores are insecure, lack encryption, have app and server vulnerabilities, and suffer leaks. This makes them unsuitable for securely accessing cryptocurrency services. 

Why use Bitcoin to buy a VPN?

A VPN is an online privacy tool designed to prevent ISPs, government agencies, websites, WiFi networks, and other eavesdroppers (including hackers) from tracking you online. The nature of a VPN means that some people may want to gain additional privacy by ensuring that their VPN is not connected directly to their bank or identity. 

When used properly, a VPN can enhance your privacy and allow you to purchase a VPN subscription that is not tied to you. 

Some VPNs accept gift cards and cash payments. These payment methods can be more anonymous than Bitcoin because no transaction is recorded on the blockchain.

Why don’t some VPNs accept Bitcoin?

Cryptocurrencies are notoriously volatile, which means the value of Bitcoin could go up or down by the time the VPN gets your payment. Due to these massive and sometimes rapid price fluctuations, some VPNs are unwilling to accept cryptocurrencies. Furthermore, accepting cryptocurrencies requires providers to set up payment infrastructure, allow for anonymous accounts, and exchange the Bitcoin they receive into fiat currency.

Is cryptocurrency anonymous?

The idea that cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin offer complete anonymity is a fundamental misunderstanding. All Bitcoin transactions are recorded and validated on a public ledger known as the blockchain. These records contain wallet addresses used for sending and receiving cryptocurrency.

While a wallet address doesn't directly reveal your identity, in many cases, it's not particularly hard to figure out the owner of a wallet or to determine where that wallet is stored. Bitcoin and most other cryptocurrencies are better understood as pseudo-anonymous

Certain cryptocurrencies such as Monero prioritize greater anonymity, but aren’t as widely accessible or accepted. Bitcoin can be tumbled (a.k.a. “washed” or “mixed”) to help obscure the connection between the sender and receiver, but doing so incurs additional fees.

Can I use other cryptocurrencies to buy a VPN subscription?

This entirely depends on which VPN you choose. Some VPNs may offer additional payment options. NordVPN, for example, accepts Ripple, Ethereum, and Bitcoin via CoinGate. To find out whether you can pay using a specific cryptocurrency, look on the VPN’s checkout page.