Although Germany has some of the most progressive internet freedoms in the EU, many web users regularly use VPNs to access their favourite web pages and content. So, of all the Germany VPN apps out there, which are the best?
That’s what The Game Haus experts have been finding out. We’ve tested and reviewed dozens of VPNs in Germany to bring you our choice of three services that we can recommend. Plus, we’ve also answered some common questions you may have about using a VPN in Germany, so you can get the most out of these invaluable web apps.
Interested in using a VPN in Germany? You may have questions about what they do and whether or not they’re legal. That’s why we’ve pulled together a few key pieces of advice and guidance that should help you get to grips with these popular applications.
Yes, it’s legal to use a VPN in Germany, with no restrictions on how, when, and where you use them. Germany takes a liberal stance on VPN use, so you should have no difficulty getting started with the VPN service of your choice.
It’s worth noting, however, that some sites discourage the use of VPNs to access their content – including popular streaming services like Netflix. So, be careful about the sites you access when using a VPN in Germany, as there may be repercussions to viewing certain content.
What’s more, using a VPN doesn’t grant impunity. If you commit a crime online, you could still face prosecution like any regular web user. It’s just something to bear in mind when you get started as a new VPN user.
That all depends on the VPN service you use. Some German VPNs offer zero data logging as standard, while others can’t make such commitments.
What do we mean by data logging? This is when a VPN service keeps a record of your browsing history when using the platform. Some VPNs, particularly free versions, will then sell or trade your data, exposing you to a potential barrage of ads, scams, and phishing emails.
This isn’t the only reason some VPNs record your data and activity. Depending on where a service is based, it may be bound by local data retention laws. In the EU, for example, VPNs must retain user data for a one-year period – something that many VPN users find troublesome.
If you’re concerned about data logging, it’s worth finding a VPN that offers zero logging as standard. All of the services we recommend below fall into this category.
While free German VPNs do exist, we would always recommend using a paid service instead. And there are plenty of reasons for this, including:
Don’t forget that when you first sign up for a premium VPN plan, you may be able to enjoy a free trial or discount. Many of the best VPN providers offer promos and deals, so be sure to compare what’s out there when making your final decision.
Not yet convinced that a premium VPN plan is worth your time and money? To help you reach a decision, we’ve listed the benefits and pitfalls of using VPNs in Germany below…
If you’re sold on signing up for a premium VPN service in Germany, our experts have handpicked three platforms that we think will tick all the boxes for you. In our view, these German VPNs deliver the perfect balance of performance and price, while also being super simple to set up and use.
| VPN provider | Monthly cost (annual plan) | Server locations in Germany |
|---|---|---|
| CyberGhost | $4.99 | Berlin, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt |
| NordVPN | $4.99 | Berlin, Frankfurt |
| ExpressVPN | $8 | Frankfurt, Nuremberg |
Solid performance, impressive features, and a reliable network of servers make CyberGhost our pick of the best VPN apps Germany has to offer. Add to that an attractive price point that’s in line with comparable operators, and it’s hard to think of a reason not to make CyberGhost your number-one choice of German VPNs.
So, what do you get for your money when signing up for CyberGhost in Germany? Well, for starters, tough security thanks to 256-bit AES encryption and an automatic network leak kill switch. IP masking and split tunnelling also come as standard, while lightning-quick streaming speeds are guaranteed thanks to CyberGhost’s strategically placed server locations.
If, for whatever reason, you decide not to go with CyberGhost, NordVPN is our second-best option for VPN services in Germany. This is one of the biggest and most trusted VPN operators in the world, with a network of over 3,000 servers guaranteeing speedy connectivity in and out of Germany.
NordVPN gets a lot of things right, including an effective adblocker and an in-built malware scanner. But it’s the firm’s zero-logging policy that really impresses, providing a water-tight means of ensuring that your data and privacy remain completely unexposed.
ExpressVPN is one of the best VPN providers in the world. Period. So, why didn’t it top our list of recommended platforms to use in Germany? Well, it all comes down to price, with Express being a few dollars a month more expensive than its closest rivals. For that extra dosh, you do get more features as standard, but for the average user, the cost difference may not be entirely justified.
If you’re looking for a workhorse of a VPN that will deliver outstanding performance and streaming speeds, ExpressVPN is the service to choose in Germany. All of the site’s plans are packed with nifty features that guarantee a positive experience, while the intuitive, easy-to-use mobile app is a huge benefit in its own right.
Germany is well covered by some of the best VPNs in the business, so you should have no difficulty in finding a service that meets your requirements. Whether you’re looking to stream content from abroad or access German web pages while travelling overseas, connecting to a German VPN couldn’t be simpler.
Looking for the best VPN for your country? Our experts at The Game Haus have profiled a range of countries around the world, so you can find apps and solutions to meet your needs.
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