- Split tunneling can be extremely helpful in some situations but not every VPN supports it.
- With the right VPN, you’ll be able to encrypt data from crucial apps while maximizing speeds on less security-critical downloads.
- We’ve personally tested more than 50 leading VPNs to see which are the best for split tunneling.
- NordVPN is our top recommendation for split tunneling. It delivers very high speeds and a great set of privacy tools, plus it works with most streaming apps.
When you connect to a Virtual Private Network, data travels between your device and the web via a proxy server that acts as a middleman. But suppose you don’t want all of your traffic to travel through the VPN server. This is where split tunneling comes in. It allows you to choose which apps, websites, or devices use the VPN and which use a direct connection to the internet. That way, your sensitive data is kept to yourself and away from prying eyes, while low-risk activities can operate normally.
We’ll discuss each of the VPNs that offer split tunneling in more detail later on, but in case you’re in a rush, we’ll start with a quick summary.
Best VPNs for Split tunneling:
- NordVPN Our first choice VPN for split tunneling. Boasts a large network, a wide range of security tools, and high speeds. Also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for split tunneling. - Surfshark Our top budget VPN with split tunneling. Fast and privacy-conscious, with several advanced features, this VPN lets you tunnel your apps or specific websites. Allows unlimited simultaneous connections.
- IPVanish This no-logs VPN offers unlimited connections, speedy servers in 100+ countries, and split tunneling support across all of its apps.
- ExpressVPN Offers a variety of split tunneling methods in both its apps and its custom router firmware. Fast servers in 100+ countries, top-notch privacy, and a strict no-logs policy.
- CyberGhost Beginner-friendly split tunneling VPN. Easy-to-use. Vast server network. Includes “smart rules” that divert different apps through different servers.
- ProtonVPN A freemium provider that lets you split tunnel without paying anything. Impressive performance and security, but for the best experience, you’ll want to upgrade.
- Private Internet Access Supports split tunneling on all platforms except iOS. Steady speeds, customizable security features, and no connection limit.
- PureVPN Boasts better-than-average speeds and beginner-friendly apps, with split tunneling functionality on Windows and Android. Great for streaming, torrenting, and more.
Many VPNs claim to protect your privacy and offer a fast, reliable connection but most (especially free VPNs) limit your connection speed or leak information.
We regularly test the top 70 VPNs for security and speed and this list only includes VPNs which are fast, reliable and are highly rated for privacy and security. Plus we only recommend VPNs which offer a full-money back guarantee allowing you to try them risk free.
How we chose the top split tunneling VPNs
Split tunneling can be set up on various operating systems, even if it’s not built into your VPN. However, it’s far simpler to configure if it’s integrated into the VPN app. Not all VPN providers offer this service.
It’s also not as simple as just finding any VPN that offers split tunneling and using it. Because a VPN is of no use if other areas of the service are below par.
So, when we were searching for the best split tunneling VPN, we also looked at a number of other criteria. These include:
- Delivers a fast, reliable service
- Strong focus on security and privacy
- Prompt and knowledgeable customer support
- Wide global server selection
- The ability to selectively tunnel traffic from specific websites or apps
- Support for multiple simultaneous connections
- Securely accesses major international streaming services (Netflix, BBC, Amazon Prime Video, etc)
- Knowledgeable customer support should you need it.
All of our selected VPNs for split tunneling meet these standards and more. You can read in more detail about how we test the VPNs we recommend in our methodology section below.
TRY THE TOP-RATED VPN RISK FREE
NordVPN is offering a fully-featured risk-free 30-day trial if you sign up on this page. You can use the VPN rated #1 for split tunneling with no restrictions for a month – great if you want to test out the service before making a commitment.
There are no hidden terms – just contact support within 30 days if you decide NordVPN isn't right for you, and you'll get a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here.
Best VPNs for split tunneling: at a glance
We’ve compared the most important features of the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for split tunneling.
| No value | NordVPN | Surfshark | IPVanish | ExpressVPN | CyberGhost | Proton VPN | Private Internet Access | PureVPN |
| Website | NordVPN.com | Surfshark.com | IPVanish.com | ExpressVPN.com | Cyberghost.com | ProtonVPN.com | PrivateInternetAccess.com | PureVPN.com | Ranking for split tunneling: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | Streaming Services | Netflix Amazon Prime Hulu BBC iPlayer HBO | Netflix Amazon Prime Hulu BBC iPlayer HBO | Netflix Amazon Prime | Netflix Amazon Prime Hulu BBC iPlayer HBO | Netflix Amazon Prime Hulu | Netflix Amazon Prime | Netflix Amazon Prime | Netflix Amazon Prime | Avg Speed (Mbps) | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | Popular Sites Unblocked | 95% | 88% | 85% | 86% | 85% | 87% | 70% | 80% | Simultaneous Connections | 10 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 8 | 7 | Free: 1, VPN Plus: 10 | Unlimited | 10 | Activity logs | No identifying data | No identifying data |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best deal (per month) | $3.39 Up to 76% off 2 year plans + free eSIM data | $2.19 86% OFF + 3 months free | $6.49 Best MONTHLY deal | $4.99 SAVE: 61% + 4 months free on 2 year plans | $2.19 SAVE 83% on the 2 year plan + 2 months free! | $3.59 SAVE 64% on a 2-year plan | $2.19 SAVE 82% on the 2 yr plan + 2 months free | $1.99 85% off the 5-yr standard plan |
Best VPNs for split tunneling
At Comparitech, we never recommend a VPN that we haven’t used thoroughly. The following reviews are based on our first-hand experiences and extensive real-world testing.
Here’s our list of the best VPNs for split tunneling
1. NordVPN
Jun 2025
offers Split TunnelingTested Jun 2025
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- FireTV
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 9.6 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use: | 9.6 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 9.5 / 10 |
| US speed testing: | 10.0 / 10 |
| Value for money: | 9.5 / 10 |
| Versatility: | 9.3 / 10 |
Website: www.NordVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
NordVPN is our top choice VPN for split tunneling. This veteran provider offers excellent security and the ability to securely access a wide range of streaming services and geo-restricted content. It has a network of more than 7,000 servers in 100+ countries, and you get 10 simultaneous connections per account. There’s also 24/7 support via live chat, but the apps are actually very easy to use despite how much advanced functionality they offer.
Previously, only NordVPN’s browser extensions supported split tunneling, though this functionality is now available in its Android and Windows apps too. You could technically split-tunnel data from specific sites by exclusively using a second browser, but that’s a bit of a hassle, and the extension would probably be the easier option.
Let’s talk about performance. After all, people generally use split tunneling to maximize their speeds so it’s important to see what the difference is when connected to the VPN. We tested three of NordVPN’s US servers throughout the day, keeping a close eye both on its impact and how consistent its speeds were. Take a look:
This provider delivered an average speed of 206.64 Mbps, which is particularly impressive given our base speed was 250 Mbps. There was just 7 Mbps of variance across three tests, meaning that NordVPN isn’t just the fastest VPN service we saw; it’s also one of the most consistent. As such, it’s a great choice for whatever you have in mind.
NordVPN has apps for Android, Windows, Linux, iOS, and macOS. Manual setup is required for routers.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want reliable app-based split tunneling on Windows and Android
- You need ultra-fast, stable speeds while routing only certain apps through the VPN
- You plan to access geo-restricted services like Netflix or BBC iPlayer
- You value advanced features like double VPN alongside split tunneling in one package
- You prefer a well-designed interface that makes complex features manageable for non-tech users
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You’re a Mac or iOS user looking for built-in split tunneling (it’s unavailable on those platforms)
BEST VPN FOR SPLIT TUNNELING:NordVPN is our top pick for split tunneling. Having the chance to use split tunneling as well as enjoying extra security features makes this VPN a strong choice. NordVPN offers a 30-day fuss-free money-back guarantee with each subscription.
Read our full NordVPN review here, or check out the video review below.
2. Surfshark
offers Split TunnelingTested Jun 2025
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 9.3 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use: | 8.9 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 9.5 / 10 |
| US speed testing: | 8.9 / 10 |
| Value for money: | 9.7 / 10 |
| Versatility: | 9.5 / 10 |
Website: www.Surfshark.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Surfshark is a budget-friendly VPN that includes split tunneling. It runs 3,200+ servers in more than 100 countries, which makes it easy to obtain a high-speed, low-latency connection wherever you are. It’s capable of securely accessing popular services like Netflix US and Amazon Prime Video from anywhere in the world, and as there’s no connection limit, you can secure every device you own with a single account.
Despite its low price point, Surfshark has long been a top performer where speed is concerned. That said, regular retesting is important so that we can tell exactly what a provider is capable of at the time of writing. The following table shows the speed of Surfshark’s American servers at various times of day:
Surfshark’s average speed was 189.27 Mbps, narrowly making it the second-quickest VPN we tested. There was around 6 Mbps of difference between its highest and lowest results, meaning you’re all but guaranteed a speedy connection regardless of when you connect. Whether you’re looking to stream, torrent, or just browse the web, this VPN would be a strong choice.
This VPN’s split tunneling feature allows you to let specific apps or websites bypass the VPN entirely. There’s also 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch (in all versions), and protection against IPv6, DNS, and WebRTC leaks, as well as a NoBorders feature that bypasses country-wide internet blocking. Surfshark doesn’t log any data that could identify you and support is on-hand 24/7 over live chat.
Surfshark provides apps for iOS, Windows, MacOS, Android, and Linux devices. Wireless routers are also supported but must be configured manually.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want to use split tunneling across unlimited devices (no connection limit)
- You want NoBorders mode to bypass local restrictions
- You want a budget-friendly and feature-rich VPN
- You need both app-based and website-based split tunneling
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You need tunneling on iOS. It’s not supported.
BEST BUDGET OPTION:Surfshark has no connection limit, a no-logging policy, fast connection speeds, and cutting-edge security features, all for a reasonable price. A 30-day money-back guarantee is also included.
Read our full Surfshark review.
3. IPVanish
offers Split TunnelingTested Jun 2025
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 9.1 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use: | 9.4 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 8.9 / 10 |
| US speed testing: | 8.6 / 10 |
| Value for money: | 9.6 / 10 |
| Versatility: | 9.2 / 10 |
Website: www.IPVanish.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
IPVanish is a highly-verstile service with a network that recently expanded to cover more than 100 countries. It boasts a strong focus on security and works with an ever-growing number of geo-blocked streaming platforms. Best of all, this is one of the few providers that allows users to secure all of their devices at the same time. There’s 24/7 customer support via live chat and a brand new Advanced subscription tier that bundles the VPN with cloud storage and a unique ephemeral web browser.
This provider offers split tunneling support in all of its apps, though the scope depends on which platform you’re using. Its Windows app can exclude both apps and sites, while Apple devices only work with apps, and Android only works with sites. To enable this feature, just hit the gear icon, move over to the Split Tunneling tab, and add the app or domain you’d like to exclude.
This provider’s network uses exclusively 25 Gbps servers (most of its rivals use 10 Gbps servers). For that reason, we went into this round of testing with high expectations. As before, we ran three speed tests at different times of day on a 250 Mbps connection (the average US household broadband speed). Here’s how IPVanish held up:
As you can see, IPVanish was one of the quickest services we saw, with an average speed of 185.09 Mbps. For context, that’s fast enough to queue up around a dozen 4K videos at the same, so you shouldn’t notice any issues when performing day to day tasks like video calling or watching TV. There was only 5 Mbps of fluctuation throughout the day too, which is an exceptional result.
IPVanish offers apps for Windows, MacOS, iOS, and Android. It supports Linux and routers too but you’ll have to follow manual setup instructions.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want split tunneling across all app platforms (Android, iOS, and Windows are covered)
- You value a user-friendly interface for customizing split tunneling preferences easily
- You want unlimited connections for tunneling control across many devices
- You want fast speeds using 25 Gbps servers
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You’re uncomfortable using a VPN based in the US (a Five Eyes jurisdiction)
SPLIT EXCLUDE ON ANDROID AND FIRE OS:IPVanish is a great choice for split tunneling on Android and Fire OS devices. Its fast speeds make it excellent for streaming and downloading, and you can use it on all your devices simultaneously. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee on annual plans.
Read our full IPVanish review.
4. ExpressVPN
offers Split TunnelingTested Jun 2025
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 8.2 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use: | 9.3 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 9.2 / 10 |
| US speed testing: | 5.7 / 10 |
| Value for money: | 8.4 / 10 |
| Versatility: | 8.5 / 10 |
Website: www.ExpressVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ExpressVPN has a great reputation and is capable of handling virtually anything you throw at it. Its network spans 105 countries, it works in high-censorship countries like China, and it supports split tunneling in its Windows, Android, and Linux apps. Unfortunately, this feature has been phased out in newer versions of MacOS and isn’t present at all in the iOS app. Users can connect up to eight devices at the same time and speak directly with staff via live chat, 24 hours per day.
ExpressVPN is one of the few providers that includes an app to install on your flashed Wi-Fi router. This app includes options to implement another type of split tunneling. You can specify which devices in your home will have all of their traffic channeled through the VPN and which will be left unprotected. The router split tunneling screen lists all recently connected devices and shows an on/off toggle next to each – the devices don’t have to be connected at the time of nomination.
Historically, ExpressVPN has performed well in our industry-wide speed tests. Still, it recently reworked its custom Lightway protocol with the goal of pushing its speeds even higher. With that in mind, our team tested its US servers three times during a typical day to see just what it was capable of. See for yourself:
We were pleased to see that ExpressVPN’s results fluctuated by just 8 Mbps across multiple tests. Its average speed was 141.80 Mbps, which is significantly more than most users will need, too. For context, you should be able to stream, video call, and listen to music simultaneously with plenty of bandwidth left over. In other words, it’s a great option for families or people who do data-intensive tasks regularly.
Apps are available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want router-level split tunneling by device (rare among VPNs)
- You require support for split-include and split-exclude logic in apps
- You need a polished, stable experience with a reliable live chat
- You need per-app split tunneling on desktop apps
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You want tunneling by website or domain
- You’re price conscious (it’s one of the most expensive services)
GOOD ALL-ROUNDER:ExpressVPN is a great choice VPN with split tunneling and gives you a lot of options. Fast connection speeds and strong security complete the package. A 30-day no-fuss money-back guarantee means you can try it risk-free.
Read our full ExpressVPN review.
5. CyberGhost
offers Split TunnelingTested Jun 2025
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 7.9 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use: | 9.1 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 8.9 / 10 |
| US speed testing: | 4.7 / 10 |
| Value for money: | 9.5 / 10 |
| Versatility: | 7.2 / 10 |
Website: www.Cyberghost.com
Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS
CyberGhost is known for its large network (covering 100 countries) and the fact that it has servers designed for various tasks including streaming, torrenting, and maximizing your anonymity. In our experience, this is one of the most reliable options for accessing geo-blocked platforms like Netflix and BBC iPlayer. There’s a seven-device limit and 24/7 customer support just in case you need it.
The split-include option lets you decide which applications should be covered by the VPN. You can specify a different server location for each app that you nominate for protection. Split tunneling can be accessed through the Preferences tab of the desktop app. The Smart Rules section of the Preferences menu, meanwhile, lets you connect to a desired location whenever you launch a particular app.
This VPN tends to rank very highly in our industry-wide speed tests. We decided to tests its servers in the US at multiple times of day, using a 250 Mbps connection to see what kind of speeds the average user can expect. You’ll find our results in the following chart:
With an average speed of 126.89 Mbps and results that only fluctuated by around 6 Mbps, CyberGhost is one of the quickest, most consistent providers on the market. In real world scenarios, you’ll be able to download a 1 GB file in under a minute, meaning tasks like live streaming, playing online games, and torrenting are no problem. In short, CyberGhost fast, reliable, and ready for anything.
Apps are available for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, and Amazon Fire Stick. The 45-day money-back guarantee is a generous addition to an already reasonable price.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want a beginner-friendly split tunneling setup with Smart Rules
- You need fast, consistent speeds while split-tunneling
- You want over 10,000 servers for varied regional access
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You need tunneling by domain (CyberGhost only supports apps)
- You want a VPN for China or the UAE
STRONG SECURITY:CyberGhost offers excellent flexibility when it comes to split tunneling as well as high-grade encryption and anonymous accounts. The company gives a generous, no-questions-asked 45-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full CyberGhost review.
6. ProtonVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 7.7 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use: | 8.8 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 9.3 / 10 |
| US speed testing: | 5.3 / 10 |
| Value for money: | 7.4 / 10 |
| Versatility: | 7.8 / 10 |
Website: www.ProtonVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ProtonVPN includes split tunneling functionality in its Windows and Android apps, even if you’re using the free version. That said, we strongly recommend upgrading to a paid plan as soon as possible – these are significantly faster, grant access to over 12,000 servers in 110+ countries, and allow you to access a whole host of popular streaming platforms including Amazon Prime Video and Disney+. You’ll also be able to connect 10 times as many devices and speak directly with support staff should anything go wrong.
Split tunneling isn’t ProtonVPN’s only advanced feature. It has an automatic ad and tracker-blocker, speed booster, and port forwarding functionality (though this costs extra), as well as multi-hop servers stored in high-security data centers. This VPN doesn’t log any personally identifiable information, has been externally audited, and accepts multiple anonymous payment methods. Naturally, it has all of the safeguards you’d expect from a high-quality service, including unbreakable encryption, a kill switch, and leak protection.
When it comes to performance, ProtonVPN has always been one of the best providers on the market. To find out how its speeds have changed since we last tested this service, we ran three tests on its US servers at different times of day. Let’s take a look and see how they performed:
This service delivered an average speed of 135.18 Mbps, which is far higher than most other VPNs can even dream of. This means that users can expect a seamless, speedy connection, even when other people in their home are using the internet too. We were able to perform multiple tasks simultaneously without any noticeable impact on speeds or degradation in stream quality, so ProtonVPN is well worth considering.
ProtonVPN has its own Android, iOS, Windows, Linux, and MacOS apps. Further, it provides manual configuration guides for a wide range of routers so you can protect an entire network.
Buy this VPN if:
- You need security features like Secure Core or port forwarding
- You need a privacy-first provider with strong audits
- You want a free plan with split tunneling support
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You need to exclude specific websites (tunneling is app-only)
- You plan to split tunnel streaming apps in China
QUICK AND SECURE:ProtonVPN is a great choice for users hoping to split tunnel on Windows or Android devices. Free plan is decent but an upgrade offers exceptionally high speeds and access to most streaming platforms. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Check out our detailed ProtonVPN review.
7. Private Internet Access
offers Split tunnelingTested Jun 2025
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- FireTV
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 7.1 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use: | 9.6 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 9.3 / 10 |
| US speed testing: | 1.2 / 10 |
| Value for money: | 8.2 / 10 |
| Versatility: | 7.4 / 10 |
Website: www.PrivateInternetAccess.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Private Internet Access is a quick and capable service that lets you split tunnel on any device (except for those running iOS). It has servers in 90+ countries and works with a huge range of geo-blocked platforms, from Netflix to BBC iPlayer. What’s more, it recently scrapped its connection limit, meaning you can secure an entire household with just one account.
This VPN shields your data from snoopers using powerful encryption, a kill switch, and leak protection. Additionally, it lets you switch DNS servers, connect via a random port, or use a multi-hop server for a second layer of anonymity. Private Internet Access doesn’t keep any logs, and we know this for sure because it’s been independently audited. Customer support is available around the clock over email or live chat, so you’re never more than a few minutes away from getting help.
Private Internet Access might not be able to provide the same kind of speeds as other VPNs in this list but it generally does offer higher-than-average performance. Our experts put it through a gauntlet of tests over the course of the day, keeping a close eye on speed and consistency. Here’s what they found:
Following three tests, Private Internet Access’ average speed was 73.62 Mbps. That’s a solid result, and one that’s more than enough for live streaming, making video calls, or playing online games. We would rather it was a little more consistent, though, as its speeds fluctuated by 21 Mbps (or around a third of its overall average) across a roughly eight hour period.
PIA has apps for Windows, Linux, Mac, iOS, and Android. You can also manually install it on some routers.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want to split-tunnel across unlimited simultaneous devices
- You value advanced tools like custom DNS and multi-hop
- You want app-level split tunneling on nearly every major platform (except iOS)
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You rely on high consistency in connection speeds
- You need streaming optimization
LOTS OF CHOICE:PIA has a large network, steady connection speeds, and a wide range of customizable privacy features. All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, and live chat is available 24/7 in case of any issues.
Why not read our full Private Internet Access review?
8. PureVPN
offers split tunnelingTested Jun 2025
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 7 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use: | 9.1 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 8.7 / 10 |
| US speed testing: | 1.0 / 10 |
| Value for money: | 8.1 / 10 |
| Versatility: | 8.1 / 10 |
Website: www.PureVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 31 DAYS
PureVPN is a highly versatile service with more than 6,000 servers around the world. Whether you’re looking to stream, torrent, or play online games, it’s a fantastic choice thanks to its unparalleled unblocking ability. Split tunneling is supported on Windows and Android devices, plus staff are on-hand via life chat if you need help getting set up. Users can protect up to 10 devices simultaneously with no bandwidth limits.
This service takes the stress out of keeping yourself safe. It uses unbreakable encryption, protects against IPv6 and DNS leaks, and can even block trackers automatically (provided you chose the Plus Max plan). Better yet, PureVPN comes with an independently-verified zero-logs policy which means there’s no need to worry about anybody monitoring your activities. It even works in places like China, where censorship and surveillance are rife.
Now, the real question is whether PureVPN can deliver high enough speeds to meet your needs. We tested its American servers three times (in the morning, at noon, and in the afternoon) on a 250 Mbps connection to find out. Let’s take a look at those results in the table below:
Our testing revealed an average speed of 60.31 Mbps. For context, that’s well above what you’d need for streaming 4K video, torrenting, playing games, or any other day to day task. PureVPN’s results varied by about 8 Mbps too, which is well within normal ranges, so if you’re looking for a speedy, reliable service with split tunneling support, we’d recommend giving this VPN a try.
PureVPN apps are available for Windows, Android, MacOS, iOS, and Linux. If you’d prefer, you can manually install the service on most home routers.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want a global network with servers in 65+ countries
- You want user-friendly split tunneling
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You want tunneling on iOS or macOS
- You want high-speed connections
RELIABLE OPTION:PureVPN is speedy, security-conscious, and capable of just about anything. Includes split tunneling functionality as standard and has one of the largest networks around. Best of all, there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee on all paid plans.
Read our full review of PureVPN to learn more.
Methodology: how we found the best VPNs for split tunneling
Comparitech aims to publish the most accurate, useful, and comprehensive VPN reviews and recommendations on the internet. To do that, our team personally uses and tests each VPN based on expert analysis, real-world experience, and several performance and security tests. When it comes to this list, we looked for the following features in addition to split tunneling:
Speed
One of the first things we do when considering VPNs is check that they’re actually capable of providing fast enough download speeds for most tasks. After all, if they don’t, you’ll run into all kinds of problems (and honestly, shouldn’t be paying for it in the first place). The internet injects an element of randomness into speed testing, though, which is why we’ve created a testing process that takes this into account.
To provide the most accurate data, our tem runs three tests per provider (one in the morning, one at noon, and one in the afternoon). We use a 250 Mbps connection since that’s the average household broadband speed in the US; naturally, we select American servers too. Then, all three results are averaged and normalized, giving us a final score out of 10 for each VPN as shown below:
As you can see, NordVPN was the quickest provider in our list, earning a perfect 10 points. Surfshark was only slightly slower, with IPVanish taking third place. However, all eight of our recommendations were able to handle day to day tasks without any issues.
Versatility
Our next challenge was finding out how versatile our top picks were. To do this, we looked at their network — specifically how many countries they had servers in since this impacts not only how far away your nearest server is but also how many geo-blocked platforms you can theoretically access. We also considered how reliably they worked with major streaming platforms and how many simultaneous connections they allowed when assigning scores. Here’s how our top VPNs compared:
Surfshark came out on top here. It’s one of the only VPNs with no connection limit, plus it works flawlessly with every streaming service we tested. Not only that, but it has a presence in more than 100 countries. NordVPN was a close second but its (admittedly generous) 10-device limit cost it the top spot.
Security and privacy
Our first priority is making sure the VPNs we recommend are able to keep you and your browsing habits secure. That’s why, to even be eligible for a place in our list, providers have to offer uncrackable encryption, leak protection, and a kill switch. They also can’t keep any logs of your activities (and ideally have been audited to prove it). Here’s a list of all 16 criteria we consider when assigning security scores:
| Feature | NordVPN | Surfshark | IPVanish | ExpressVPN | CyberGhost | Proton VPN | PIA | PureVPN |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Activity logs | No activity logs | No activity logs | No activity logs | No activity logs | No activity logs | No activity logs | No activity logs | No activity logs |
| IP logs | No IP logs | No IP logs | No IP logs | No IP logs | No IP logs | No IP logs | No IP logs | No IP logs |
| Encryption | AES-128 or higher | AES-128 or higher | AES-128 or higher | AES-128 or higher | AES-128 or higher | AES-128 or higher | AES-128 or higher | AES-128 or higher |
| Authentication | SHA-384 | SHA-512 | SHA-256 | SHA-512 | SHA-256 | SHA-512 | SHA-256 | SHA-256 |
| Keys | 4096-bit | 4096-bit | 4096-bit | 4096-bit | 4096-bit | 2048-bit | 4096-bit | 4096-bit |
| Perfect Forward Secrecy | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| DNS leak protection | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| IPv6 leak protection | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Private DNS | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Torrenting allowed | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Kill switch | All platforms | Mobile app-level | All platforms | Mobile app-level | All platforms | All platforms | All platforms | Some platforms |
| HQ outside 9 eyes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| Obfuscation | Stealth | Stealth | Stealth | Automatic | Stealth | Stealth | Stealth | Automatic |
| Supported protocols | Own protocol | Secure protocols only | Secure protocols only | Own protocol | Secure protocols only | Secure protocols only | Secure protocols only | Secure protocols only |
| Anonymous payment options | Multiple | Multiple | None | Multiple | Multiple | One | Multiple | One |
| Additional security features | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | No |
Don’t worry if the technical terms in the table above threw you; it can be difficult to understand what they all mean, even if you’re an expert! Instead, take a look at the chart below. This shows our overall security rating for each VPN, making it much easier to compare competing services side by side:
NordVPN and Surfshark both scored extremely well in this category and actually shared first place. If NordVPN had slightly stronger authentication and Surfshark wasn’t based in a Nine Eyes country, they’d have actually earned perfect scores. That said, thanks to how strong the rest of their security offerings are, neither is a major issue — you’ll be safe regardless of which you pick.
Ease of use
We strongly prefer services that cater to newcomers and experts alike. The more straightforward day-to-day operation is, the better. Perhaps providers offer servers specifically optimized for torrenting or gaming. They might provide detailed setup guides for Wi-Fi routers, 24/7 support over live chat, or a particularly streamlined cancellation process. Let’s see all of the factors that went into our scoring:
NordVPN tied for first place with Private Internet Access, each scoring 9.6 points. PIA doesn’t have any connection limits, boasts a large network, and boasts well-organized apps, while NordVPN was able to access every streaming platform we tested without breaking a sweat. We also liked that this service introduced its more advanced functionality in a way that felt approachable to complete beginners.
| Feature | NordVPN | Surfshark | IPVanish | ExpressVPN | CyberGhost | Proton VPN | PIA | PureVPN |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apps for all major platforms | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Novice-friendly design | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Ease of signup (reviewer to score) | 5 (easy) | 4 | 5 (easy) | 5 (easy) | 4 | 4 | 5 (easy) | 3 |
| Router support | Standard | Standard | Standard | App | Standard | Standard | Standard | App |
| Unblocking consistency | Great | Great | Great | Generally works | Great | Great | Great | Great |
| Task specific servers | Yes | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Network | 60+ countries | 60+ countries | 60+ countries | 60+ countries | 60+ countries | 60+ countries | 60+ countries | 60+ countries |
| Ease of cancellation | Very easy | Very easy | Very easy | Very easy | Very easy | Very easy | Very easy | Very easy |
| Interface | Well-organised | A little cluttered | Well-organised | Well-organised | A little cluttered | Takes some getting used to | Well-organised | A little cluttered |
| Feature parity | Most features available on all versions | Most features available on all versions | Most features available on all versions | All features available on all versions | Most features available on all versions | Most features available on all versions | Most features available on all versions | Most features available on all versions |
Value for money
Nobody wants to pay more than they absolutely have to for their VPN. Our team first ensures that providers are charging fairly for what their service offers, then looks for ways to drive the price even lower. This involves researching how often each VPN goes on sale, whether it offers student discounts, and if it’s possible to save by choosing a longer subscription. We also check whether they offer free trials and what the limitations are. However, to earn our recommendation, they must provide a money-back guarantee.
Surfshark came out on top in this category. It has steep discounts on long-term plans, allows users to connect any number of devices simultaneously, and is capable of bypassing virtually any form of online blocking (even easily sidestepping Chinese internet censorship).
| Feature | NordVPN | Surfshark | IPVanish | ExpressVPN | CyberGhost | Proton VPN | PIA | PureVPN |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Money-back guarantee | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Connection limit | 6+ | Unlimited | Unlimited | 6+ | 6+ | 6+ | Unlimited | 6+ |
| Subscription terms | 3 terms+ | 3 terms+ | 3 terms+ | 3 terms+ | 3 terms+ | 3 terms+ | 3 terms+ | 3 terms+ |
| Sale frequency | Frequently running deals | Frequently running deals | Frequently running deals | Frequently running deals | Frequently running deals | Frequently running deals | Frequently running deals | Frequently running deals |
| Monthly pricing | <$13 | <$10 | <$13 | $15+ | <$13 | <$10 | <$13 | <$13 |
| Lowest price | <$5 | <$5 | <$5 | $5+ | <$5 | $5+ | <$5 | <$5 |
| Free trial available | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Student discount | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No | No |
Learn more about how we rate and review VPNs on our testing methodology page.
What is split tunneling, and why use it?
Split tunneling is a VPN feature that allows you to choose which data goes through the encrypted VPN tunnel and which uses a direct, unencrypted connection.
Split tunneling is useful in situations where only certain activities need to be protected by the VPN. While torrenting, for example, you can set your torrenting app to use the VPN while your web browser uses a normal internet connection.
Different types of split tunneling
VPN split tunneling can take a few different forms depending on how it decides what goes through the VPN and what doesn’t.
Most of the providers we recommend above let you split tunnel by app. You decide which apps use the VPN and which use a direct, unencrypted connection to the internet.
If you set up your VPN on a router, you could split tunnel by device. You can, for example, set your phone to use a normal connection and your PC to use the VPN.
Lastly, you can split tunnel according to your destination on the internet. The VPN could be configured to only kick in when you visit certain websites, for example. This is much less common than the other two types.
Pros and cons of split tunneling
- You can simultaneously use a direct connection and a VPN connection
- Conserves VPN bandwidth
- You can still access your local network, including printers and smart home devices
- Latency won’t suffer on non-VPN apps and devices.
In contrast, there are few disadvantages of split tunneling:
- The main issue is security. In theory, an attacker could exploit split tunneling by using it as a back door. An attack on your direct, non-VPN connection could infiltrate your VPN-protected connection through your device. But so long as it’s configured properly, split tunneling is safe for most users.
How to use a split tunneling VPN
The exact process for split tunneling varies by VPN, but below is a general guide.
Here’s how to use a split tunneling VPN:
- Open your VPN app (we recommend Nord VPN) and sign in if necessary.
- Before you connect, find the split tunneling setting in your app’s menu
- Add the apps that you want to go through the VPN to the list (or, if inverse split tunneling, the devices you don’t want to connect to the VPN)
- Ensure split tunneling is enabled. You might need to check a box.
- Connect to the VPN.
See also: How to split tunnel VPN traffic on Windows, MacOS, DD-WRT, and Tomato
Split tunneling VPNs: FAQs
Can I use a free VPN for split tunneling?
Although there are quite a few free VPNs available, we advise against using them. The facility for split tunneling is only available in very few VPNs, and none of those specialized VPNs are free to use.
Free VPNs typically can’t get past location blocks on video streaming sites, and they can really slow down your connection.
Be cautious of free VPNs because a lot of them are scams. One of the key services included in VPNs is encryption to prevent strangers from snooping on your internet activity. Many free VPNs don’t include any encryption at all. These are not only useless but dangerous because they give people a false sense of security.
Although some VPNs are free of charge, they are not charities. Some make money by forcing their users to watch adverts before they connect. Others sneakily inject adverts into the web pages that they channel. Some free VPNs even track the internet activities of their users and sell that information to marketers. This is ironic because one of the main selling points of VPNs is that they are supposed to protect your privacy on the web.
All-in-all, you are better off avoiding free VPNs and opting for a quality VPN service instead.
What can I do with split tunneling?
Split tunneling boasts a number of advantages and is quite handy in a lot of situations:
- Users in China can access foreign-only and China-only content at the same time. Works for other countries as well.
- Set which apps use the VPN, such as those that require more privacy. Your web browser can use a direct connection while your torrenting app uses the VPN, for example.
- If your Wi-Fi router supports split tunneling (e.g., ExpressVPN’s router firmware), you can choose which devices use the VPN and which do not. Game consoles can use a direct connection with less lag, for example, while your phone and laptop use the VPN.
- Access local network devices such as printers, smart home devices, and routers while using the VPN.
- Connect to local-only resources in a school or office while at the same time accessing websites and apps from behind a web filter.
What is inverse split tunneling?
Inverse split tunneling functions the same way as normal split tunneling in most respects. Normal split tunneling protects all connected apps or devices except for those specifically excluded.
Inverse split tunneling only protects specified apps or devices, and everything else is excluded by default.
Just think of the difference between a whitelist and a blacklist; it’s conceptually the same thing. The “list” might be a list of devices, apps, websites, or even port numbers that connect—or do not connect—to the VPN.
Is split tunneling safe?
Split tunneling is perfectly safe, assuming it’s well-implemented and you are fully aware of what data travels through the VPN and what doesn’t.
Can a VPN be restricted to a single site?
It depends on how split tunneling is implemented in your VPN app.
CyberGhost, for example, only allows for split tunneling of entire apps, and not specific websites.
Surfshark, in contrast, allows users to split tunnel specific websites and even IP addresses. You can enter which websites and IP addresses bypass the VPN while split tunneling is enabled (note: Surfshark calls this feature a “Whitelister”).
Check the specific features of your chosen VPN before making a final commitment.
Does split tunneling add latency?
Apps and websites that bypass the VPN through split tunneling have no added latency or ping time.
Apps and websites that do route through the VPN will have the usual added latency that you would get with any VPN connection.
Are there any security risks of split tunneling?
Yes, split tunneling does come with some security risks. Put simply, attackers can infiltrate your device through the non-VPN connection, which in turn gives them access to your VPN connection as well as the sites, apps, and services you use while on the VPN.
Consumer VPNs generally don’t restrict or monitor users’ traffic and give open access to the internet, so the security risks are not too severe in most cases. This is a bigger concern for corporate environments using enterprise VPNs for, say, remote workers. Split tunneling could allow attackers to access a company’s private server through the client’s unencrypted connection.
Which protocols do/ don't support split tunneling?
Split tunneling is usually achieved with OpenVPN, but the feature is not really limited to any specific protocol. It can also be set up with Wireguard or IKEv2, for example.
Is split tunneling difficult to set up?
It’s not at all difficult to set up split tunneling. The best VPNs for split tunneling make it quick and easy to do from within the VPN app. You should be able to find the split tunneling feature within the settings menu where you’ll be able to toggle it on or off.
Usually, you need to add the apps that you want to go through the VPN (any apps not selected will not have data encrypted). In the case of inverse split tunneling, all traffic is encrypted by default and you need to specify which apps you don’t want connected to the VPN.
See also: Best VPNs for routers
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How can NordVPN be your top choice for Split Tunneling when they only offer it in Windows and Android? The first sentence you write about your #1 choice is that “NordVPN apps are available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android devices” but that is very misleading as you are writing about Split Tunneling and they don’t offer it yet for macOS, Linux, or iOS/iPadOS etc