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PureVPN Review: Best Cheap VPN With Streaming Support 2026

Rob Mardisalu

Rob Mardisalu

Founder and writer of TheBestVPN.com

PureVPN was launched in 2007 by GZ Systems, which rebranded as PureSquare (Pure²) in 2023. That makes PureVPN one of the oldest and most established VPN providers on the market.

From their humble 2-server beginnings, PureVPN has significantly expanded its operation, and they now boast more than 6,000 servers across 65 locations.

PureVPN performed exceptionally well in unblocking streaming sites, hitting 100% success rate on our 9 tests. It is one of the few VPNs that unblocks Netflix Japan, US, and UK libraries, which proved challenging for many others.

Those who were still worried about its data handoff to the FBI in 2017, PureVPN now boasts “always-on” no-logs audits by KPMG. Let’s take a deep dive into PureVPN today.

PureVPN Overview

PureVPN is compatible with all major devices including:

  • Windows
  • Android
  • Mac
  • iOS
  • Linux (both GUI and CLI)
  • Chrome, Firefox, and Chromium browsers
  • Router configurations

If you are particularly keen on optimizing your online protection, you can even set PureVPN up to work with your routers. It has an app for Amazon Fire and Android smart TVs. Browser extension for Chrome, Firefox, and Chromium-based browsers. However, streaming services like Roku and Chromecast require a manual setup via routers.

You can use PureVPN on 10 devices simultaneously, similarly to NordVPN and VyprVPN. But services like Surfshark now offer unlimited simultaneous connections. It also has a ‘split-tunneling’ feature, which means you can choose how (and where) you’d like to send traffic – through your VPN or internet service provider as usual. Your data can be split as needed.

While PureVPN doesn’t have a built-in VPN over TOR feature, you can use them together separately. Combining VPNs with the Tor network adds an additional layer of privacy and security.

PureVPN has a kill switch feature that works like a fail-safe. The goal is to make sure your privacy and anonymity are never compromised, and that your personal information is never divulged.

Last but certainly not least, PureVPN comes with a paid port forwarding add-on ($1.49/month), previously marketed as NAT Firewall. It allows managing inbound traffic for P2P or gaming, or blocking insecure connections.

OVERALL RANK: #7 Out of 30 VPNs
USABILITY: Simple and Easy To Use
LOG FILES: No Logging (KPMG Audited)
LOCATIONS: 65+ Locations, 6,000+ Servers
SUPPORT: Responsive Live Chat
TORRENTING: Allowed
NETFLIX: Unblocks Multiple Netflix Libraries
ENCRYPTION/PROTOCOL: 256-bit AES; WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2, L2TP/IPSec
COST: From $2.15/mo
OFFICIAL WEBSITE: www.PureVPN.com

PureVPN Pros

1. Modern Protocol Support (WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2)

‘Man-in-the-middle’ (MiTM) attacks are some of the oldest (and most common) ways that hackers gain access to your sensitive information. You might not even sense that anything is wrong. But somehow, someway, someone has placed themselves between you and your intended connection (like a browser or a website).

They can then read your emails, see what websites you’re going to, grab your session cookies to fool different websites into thinking they’re you, and even steal personal information or passwords.

Many times, the very tools used to help intercept these practices, like WiFi Pineapple, can be used to perform them by anyone, anywhere. Like, sitting in your local coffee shop, for instance. Now, browsing emails or booking a flight while sipping a latte can turn out to be not such a relaxing afternoon after all.

This potential risk now extends to mobile devices, apps, and even your smart devices too. To combat these problems, PureVPN offers major secure protocols, including WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2.

WireGuard is now PureVPN’s flagship protocol, offering superior speeds with its streamlined 4,000-line codebase compared to OpenVPN’s 600,000+ lines. While OpenVPN remains your most compatible option across older devices, WireGuard provides the best balance of speed and modern cryptographic security. You might also choose IKEv2 for mobile connections or specific compatibility requirements.

2. No Leaks Found in Current Testing

When you are in the market for a VPN, you are typically there for one reason and one reason only.

Security.

Whether you want to protect yourself when working from public wi-fi or bypass censorship laws in your country, personal security is (and should be) your primary concern when selecting a new VPN service.

In our 2026 testing, we found no DNS, IPv4, or WebRTC leaks using their service on the following testing platforms:

  • IPLeak.net
  • Perfect-Privacy.com
  • BrowserLeaks
  • IPX.ac
  • VirtualTotal.com

Most importantly, PureVPN does not have any IP address and DNS leaks.

Then, it successfully passed the WebRTC leak.

PureVPN handles kill switch protection very well. It offers a “weaker” kill switch that only blocks the internet when connection to the VPN server drops. However, this method typically does not work when the VPN app crashes and sometimes produces leaks during a server change.

PureVPN also offers a kill switch that blocks everything while not connected to the VPN server. We consider this setting mandatory to pass the kill switch test successfully.

As you can see, even while disconnected from PureVPN server with a kill switch on, we couldn’t ping the CloudFlare server because PureVPN terminated all traffic.

However, note that some reviewers have reported occasional IPv6 leaks on macOS, so users should manually disable IPv6 on Mac systems for complete protection.

3. KPMG-Audited “No-Log” VPN With Always-On Monitoring

PureVPN markets their product as a “Zero Logs” VPN.

Since 2019, they’ve undergone multiple independent audits, most recently by KPMG, one of the “Big Four” accounting firms. They are now certified as a “No-Log” VPN with an innovative “Always-On Audit” policy.

purevpn logging policy

The Always-On Audit means KPMG can conduct surprise audits at any time without prior notice, providing unprecedented transparency in the VPN industry. Their fourth consecutive audit in 2023 confirmed they maintain strict compliance with their no-logs policy.

4. Industry Standard 256-bit Encryption

Brute force attacks are another, unfortunately, common practice.

Hackers eventually figure out your passwords and pin numbers through a series of repetitive, lightning-fast, trial-and-error combinations. They’re one of the oldest tricks in the book (besides simply guessing your spouse’s birthday or kid’s name). And they’re actually increasing.

For example, a recent widespread attack on WordPress sites has been directed by a Russian company being used by the country to launch cyber attacks (you can’t make this stuff up).

The best form of defense in this case is prevention. That comes in the form of 256-bit encryption, which is one of the most secure connections possible. It is so secure that it is used by government agencies around the world.

Your encrypted tunnel gets sealed shut so that third-party sites, ISPs, and nefarious, shadowy organizations worthy of being the next Bond villain can’t see what you’re up to.

In addition, your privacy and anonymity are completely safe thanks to their AES-256 encrypted connection. This includes when you switch from one IP to another (or another, or another) across PureVPN’s 6,000 servers.

5. Impressive Feature Set With Modern Additions

One of the things that I really liked about PureVPN is just how many features and options they offer their users.

For starters, they offer a kill switch, ten simultaneous connections, support for all major protocols, DDoS protection, advanced port forwarding, split tunneling, and dedicated and residential IP addresses.

In 2025, PureVPN has significantly enhanced their feature set with quantum-resistant encryption servers, obfuscated servers for restrictive networks, and 20 Gbps high-speed servers in popular locations like the US, UK, Germany, and the Netherlands.

They also now offer specialized streaming servers, P2P-optimized servers, and residential IP options for enhanced accessibility. For streaming, you even get shortcuts for popular services like Netflix and Paramount Plus with worldwide server selection.

The addition of tracker blocking and ad blocking features makes their service even more comprehensive.

While some premium add-ons like dedicated IPs and port forwarding incur additional monthly costs, the base service now includes many features that were previously paid extras.

6. Unrestricted Torrenting With P2P Servers

PureVPN is solidly pro-torrenting.

Why’s that noteworthy?

Because ever since copyright infringement lawsuits began flooding the marketplace, more and more VPNs are shying away from P2P servers. Often, the ones who do still offer torrenting-friendly servers only allow it on a small handful of offerings.

But PureVPN doesn’t have these restrictions on most locations. However, note that P2P servers are not available in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, or Australia due to strict regional regulations.

You’re free to use torrenting on their specialized P2P servers across 44+ locations worldwide. So download away responsibly!

7. Quick Live Chat Support With Improved Responses

When dealing with a VPN, your security is on the line. As such, you want to ensure that your questions and concerns can be addressed quickly and efficiently through a responsive customer support department.

When we first reviewed PureVPN, we were not happy with their support. While it offered live chat functionality, all of the responses seemed to be auto-generated. However, PureVPN responded well to criticism and came back with a responsive and quick live chat system that directly addressed the questions I asked in under a minute.

I started off with a simple two-question approach. I wanted to know if users are able to utilize the TOR network, and I wanted to know what was being done to prevent DNS leaks.

PureVPN Live Chat Response

As you can see above and below, they responded quickly, but it felt like a typical form response. What followed the greeting was another answer that seemed to be a copy-paste job.

However, once I clarified my questions, I received a much better answer.

PureVPN Live Chat Response

They responded with a simple statement regarding the TOR network, and I re-clarified that I had asked a second question.

PureVPN Live Chat Response

They responded to that with a link that allows users to test for DNS leaks.

PureVPN Live Chat Response

They didn’t go into specifics on how these issues were addressed, but the answer came quickly and it was helpful. I gave them definite props for that, especially when one considers where this service once was in terms of customer service.

It has improved by leaps and bounds.

8. Excellent Netflix and Streaming Performance

PureVPN claims to work with Netflix. That’s actually a bigger deal than you might think.

Netflix and VPNs have been at war for a few years. Whereas once users could utilize a VPN’s tunneling service to access geo-blocked Netflix content from other countries, the streaming service eventually caught onto this and unleashed a blocking system that stops most VPNs cold.

In our latest 2026 testing, PureVPN has dramatically improved their Netflix compatibility. Recent tests show successful unblocking of multiple Netflix libraries, including:

  • United States: WORKED
  • United Kingdom: WORKED
  • Canada: WORKED
  • Australia: WORKED
  • Japan: WORKED
  • Germany: WORKED

Most VPNs out there struggle with Netflix’s advanced detection systems, so the fact that PureVPN consistently unblocks major Netflix libraries places it solidly on top of our Netflix-friendly VPN list. That’s a huge improvement and a major feather in the cap of this service.

Beyond Netflix, PureVPN also reliably works with BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and other major streaming platforms.

As you can see, we were able to stream Fallout on Amazon Prime DE, which was trending in Germany.

We also accessed The Apprentice on BBC iPlayer, which is geographically restricted to the UK.

PureVPN Cons

PureVPN is an affordable service with great features and an extensive server selection. However, there are still some considerations that potential users should be aware of before committing to this service.

1. Speed Performance Varies by Location

Here’s an overview of recent speed tests conducted using PureVPN’s WireGuard protocol. We tested from multiple locations to ensure accuracy of this review. The baseline for each test was 250 Mbps download and 250 Mbps upload speeds.

Baseline

  • Download: 249.57Mbps
  • Upload: 251.13Mbps
  • Ping: 1ms

Nearest Server

  • Download: 233.95 Mbps
  • Upload: 240.63 Mbps
  • Ping: 8ms

Europe

  • Download: 237.06Mbps
  • Upload: 236.91Mbps
  • Ping: 25ms

US East

  • Download: 209.44Mbps
  • Upload: 231.95Mbps
  • Ping: 97ms

US West

  • Download: 199.57Mbps
  • Upload: 233.37Mbps
  • Ping: 162ms

Asia

  • Download: 209.44Mbps
  • Upload: 231.95Mbps
  • Ping: 97ms

With WireGuard, PureVPN shows significantly improved performance compared to older protocols. However, speeds can still vary considerably depending on your distance from the server and server load during peak times.

That said, for budget-conscious users, PureVPN’s current speeds are quite competitive, especially considering their low pricing compared to premium alternatives.

Costs, Plans, and Payment Options

The first, and most noticeable ‘pro’ about using PureVPN is the price tag.

They’re still one of the cheapest VPNs on the market and offer excellent value for customers on their longer-term plans.

Here’s how it all breaks down for 2026.

Standard Plan Options:

  • Monthly Plan: $12.95 per month
  • 1-Year Plan: $2.55 per month (billed annually)
  • 2-Year Plan: $2.15 per month (billed every 2 years + 3 extra months free)

Plus Plan (Includes Password Manager & File Encryption):

  • Monthly: $17.95 per month
  • 2-Year: $3.15 per month (billed every 2 years)

Max Plan (Includes Personal Privacy Manager):

  • Monthly: $19.95 per month
  • 2-Year: $3.55 per month (billed every 2 years)

They also allow customers to purchase their service with almost every payment method imaginable including cryptocurrencies. It’s nice to see untraceable crypto currencies listed as a payment option. This will allow users to pay with an untraceable online only form of currency. That’s a huge plus for VPN users who want to remain hidden.

In addition to their budget-friendly pricing and wide array of payment options, all of their purchases come with a 31-day money-back guarantee.

Do We recommend PureVPN?

PureVPN has made significant improvements since our earlier reviews. The service now offers genuinely competitive features, strong security, and excellent value for money.

PureVPN delivers an affordable VPN service with an extensive server network spanning 65+ locations. Their customer service has improved substantially, they now consistently unblock Netflix and other streaming services, and their KPMG-audited no-logs policy provides real transparency. These are all excellent achievements for a budget-focused VPN.

The addition of WireGuard protocol, quantum-resistant servers, and always-on audit policies show PureVPN is committed to staying current with industry standards. For users seeking reliable privacy protection, streaming capability, and torrenting support at a budget-friendly price, PureVPN represents solid value in 2026.

That said, if you prioritize comprehensive cybersecurity and premium features, you might consider NordVPN – it’s similarly priced on longer plans and offers a very wide range of features (you can read the review here). For ultra-budget users, Surfshark remains an excellent alternative starting at $1.99/mo (review here).