Finding the best VPN for torrenting in 2026 is no longer just about raw speed. Today, a torrenting VPN must protect your identity, prevent IP leaks, bypass ISP throttling, and still deliver fast, stable download performance for large P2P files.
Because torrent traffic is closely monitored by ISPs, copyright enforcement groups, and network filters, using the wrong VPN can expose your real IP address or result in throttled connections. For this reason, choosing a VPN specifically tested for torrenting is essential.
After testing dozens of VPN providers under real torrenting conditions, we identified the services that offer the strongest combination of privacy protection, verified no-logs policies, P2P support, and consistent speed retention.
Below, you’ll find our hands-on testing methodology, torrenting performance tables, and side-by-side comparisons designed to help you choose a VPN that keeps your torrenting activity private, secure, and unrestricted in 2026.
How We Test VPNs for Torrenting (2026)
Unlike generic VPN roundups, our rankings focus exclusively on real-world torrenting performance. Every VPN on this page is tested using identical conditions to ensure accurate, fair, and repeatable comparisons.
Because torrent traffic places unique demands on privacy, speed, and connection stability, our testing methodology is designed specifically around P2P usage rather than general browsing or streaming.
- P2P testing using qBittorrent and uTorrent
- Download and upload speed tests on a 1 Gbps fiber connection
- IP address, DNS, and WebRTC leak testing
- Kill switch failure simulations during active torrents
- Jurisdiction and copyright enforcement risk analysis
- Verification of independent no-logs audits
Only VPNs that passed every critical torrenting, privacy, and leak-protection check are recommended on this page. Providers that failed even one essential test were excluded, regardless of marketing claims or advertised speeds.
What Makes a VPN Safe for Torrenting?
Many VPNs claim to “support torrenting,” but far fewer are actually safe for long-term torrent use. A VPN suitable for torrenting must protect your identity, prevent IP leaks, and reduce legal exposure — not just allow P2P traffic.
Below are the non-negotiable requirements we use when evaluating whether a VPN is truly safe for torrenting in 2026.
1. Jurisdiction & Legal Protection
VPNs based outside the Five Eyes, Nine Eyes, and Fourteen Eyes surveillance alliances generally offer stronger protection against data requests, copyright monitoring, and intelligence-sharing agreements.
While jurisdiction alone does not guarantee safety, it significantly reduces the risk of forced data disclosure when combined with a proven no-logs policy.
2. Proven No-Logs Policy
A safe torrenting VPN must operate under a strict no-logs policy. This means the provider does not store:
- Your real IP address
- Torrent activity or file metadata
- Connection timestamps tied to identity
- Bandwidth usage linked to individual users
We only recommend VPNs whose no-logs claims are supported by independent audits, court records, or transparency reports.
3. Reliable Kill Switch Protection
A kill switch is essential for torrenting. It immediately blocks internet traffic if the VPN connection drops, preventing your real IP address from being exposed to peers or trackers.
During testing, we simulated VPN dropouts while torrents were active. VPNs with delayed or unreliable kill switches were excluded from this guide.
4. P2P-Optimised Infrastructure
The best VPNs for torrenting are built with P2P traffic in mind. This includes either:
- Dedicated P2P servers optimised for torrent traffic
- Full-network P2P support with no artificial restrictions
VPNs that throttle torrent traffic, restrict P2P to unstable locations, or silently block torrent ports do not qualify as safe torrenting VPNs.
Best VPNs for Torrenting: Feature Comparison
| VPN | P2P Support | Kill Switch | No-Logs Audit | Port Forwarding |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | Yes (Specialty) | Yes | Yes | No |
| ExpressVPN | Yes (All Servers) | Yes | Yes | No |
| Surfshark | Yes (All Servers) | Yes | Yes | No |
| PureVPN | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| IPVanish | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Mullvad | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Best VPNs for Torrenting in 2026
Not all VPNs are suitable for torrenting. The providers below were selected based on privacy protection, kill switch reliability, P2P support, and real-world download performance.
NordVPN — Best Overall VPN for Torrenting
NordVPN offers the strongest balance of speed, privacy, and torrent-specific features. It supports P2P traffic across a large portion of its network and includes a reliable system-level kill switch to prevent IP leaks during active downloads.
Its independently audited no-logs policy and Panama jurisdiction make it one of the safest choices for long-term torrent use.
Best for: Users who want maximum safety with fast, consistent torrent speeds
Not ideal for: Users looking for a free VPN
Get NordVPN → | Read Full NordVPN Review →
ExpressVPN — Best for Privacy & Jurisdiction
ExpressVPN is a strong option for users who prioritise jurisdiction and legal protection. Based in the British Virgin Islands, it operates outside major surveillance alliances and maintains a verified no-logs policy.
Torrenting performance is consistent across supported servers, though it does not label dedicated P2P locations.
Best for: Privacy-focused torrent users
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious users
Get ExpressVPN → | Read Full ExpressVPN Review →
Surfshark — Best Budget VPN for Torrenting
Surfshark delivers strong torrenting performance at a significantly lower long-term price. It allows P2P traffic across its network and supports unlimited simultaneous connections, making it ideal for households or multiple devices.
While speeds are slightly less consistent than NordVPN, performance remains more than sufficient for large downloads and ongoing seeding.
Best for: Budget users and multi-device setups
Not ideal for: Users who want the highest possible speeds
Torrenting Legal Risk by Country (2026)
Torrenting laws and enforcement levels vary widely by country. In some regions, copyright enforcement is aggressive and automated, while in others it is limited or rarely applied.
While a VPN helps protect your identity, legal risk is influenced by both your physical location and your VPN provider’s jurisdiction. This makes country-specific risk awareness essential for safe torrenting.
| Country | Torrenting Risk Level | ISP Monitoring | VPN Recommended? |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States | High | Yes | Absolutely |
| United Kingdom | High | Yes | Absolutely |
| Germany | Very High | Yes | Mandatory |
| Canada | Medium | Yes | Strongly Recommended |
| Australia | High | Yes | Absolutely |
| Netherlands | Low–Medium | Limited | Recommended |
| Switzerland | Low | No | Optional |
What This Means for Torrent Users
Countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, and Australia actively monitor P2P traffic and frequently issue copyright notices or fines. In these regions, torrenting without a VPN exposes your real IP address to copyright monitoring agencies.
In contrast, countries like Switzerland and the Netherlands apply less aggressive enforcement, but ISP monitoring and logging can still occur depending on the network provider.
For users torrenting from high-risk regions, we strongly recommend using a VPN with:
- A verified no-logs policy
- A jurisdiction outside major surveillance alliances
- A system-level kill switch
For region-specific VPN guidance, you may also find these helpful: Best VPN for the USA, Best VPN for the UK, and VPNs for Restricted Countries.
Why VPN Jurisdiction Matters for Torrenting
A VPN’s legal jurisdiction plays a critical role in how well it can protect torrenting users. Jurisdiction determines how a provider responds to copyright complaints, data requests, and law-enforcement subpoenas.
Even the strongest encryption is ineffective if a VPN is legally required to log user activity or comply with aggressive surveillance laws. This is why where a VPN company is based matters as much as how the technology works.
Surveillance Alliances and Torrenting Risk
Countries that participate in intelligence-sharing alliances such as the Five Eyes, Nine Eyes, and Fourteen Eyes are more likely to cooperate on data requests and cross-border investigations.
VPNs headquartered outside these alliances generally face fewer legal obligations to collect or share user data, reducing exposure for torrenting activity when combined with a verified no-logs policy.
Best Jurisdictions for Torrenting VPNs
- Panama — NordVPN (no mandatory data retention laws)
- British Virgin Islands — ExpressVPN (privacy-friendly legal framework)
- Netherlands — Surfshark infrastructure (P2P-friendly courts)
- Romania — PureVPN infrastructure (no data retention requirements)
- Sweden — Mullvad (strong transparency protections)
Jurisdiction Alone Is Not Enough
While jurisdiction provides an important legal foundation, it does not guarantee safety on its own. A VPN must also demonstrate:
- A verified no-logs policy
- A reliable system-level kill switch
- Clear transparency reporting or independent audits
VPNs that combine a privacy-friendly jurisdiction with audited no-logs policies and P2P-optimised infrastructure offer the strongest protection for torrenting in 2026.
No-Logs Policies & Independent Audits
A VPN’s no-logs claim is only meaningful if it can be independently verified. For torrenting users, this is one of the most important factors when choosing a VPN, as it determines whether activity data could ever be linked back to you.
We evaluate no-logs claims using three criteria: published privacy policies, third-party audits, and real-world legal outcomes where available.
How We Verify No-Logs Claims
- Review of publicly documented logging policies
- Confirmation of independent third-party audits
- Assessment of court cases or legal incidents where user data was requested
VPNs that lack independent audits or have unclear logging disclosures are excluded from top torrenting recommendations.
| VPN Provider | No-Logs Policy | Independent Audit | Real-World Verification |
|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | Yes | Deloitte | Yes – no data produced when requested |
| ExpressVPN | Yes | PwC | Yes – server seizure confirmed no logs |
| Surfshark | Yes | Independent audit | Limited – no major court cases |
| PureVPN | Yes | Independent audit | Yes – post-2018 policy verification |
| IPVanish | Yes | Independent audit | Limited – historical concerns resolved |
| Mullvad | Yes | Independent audit | Yes – minimal account data model |
Why This Matters for Torrenting
When torrenting, your IP address is visible to peers and trackers. If a VPN logs connection data, this information could theoretically be correlated with torrent activity.
VPNs that combine a verified no-logs policy, privacy-friendly jurisdiction, and a reliable kill switch provide the strongest protection against monitoring and legal exposure.
For a deeper breakdown of logging policies and audit transparency, see our Best No-Log VPNs (2026) guide.
NordVPN — Best Overall VPN for Torrenting in 2026
When it comes to torrenting, NordVPN delivers one of the strongest combinations of privacy protection, speed retention, and long-term reliability. It is our top recommendation for users who want a single VPN that performs consistently for P2P traffic without constant configuration or added risk.
NordVPN was tested extensively using large torrent files, long seeding sessions, and real-world failure simulations to evaluate how it performs when privacy and connection stability truly matter.
NordVPN Torrenting Policy & P2P Support
NordVPN allows torrenting across most of its network and operates P2P-optimised servers designed specifically for BitTorrent, qBittorrent, and similar torrent clients. These servers prioritise stable peer connections and reduce congestion during sustained downloads.
Importantly for torrenting users, NordVPN’s no-logs policy has been independently audited. Combined with its headquarters in Panama, this places the service outside mandatory data-retention regimes and major surveillance alliances.
Real-World Torrenting Performance
In controlled testing, NordVPN demonstrated excellent speed retention during extended torrent sessions. Tests were conducted using a 5 GB Linux ISO file on qBittorrent across multiple regions.
| Test Scenario | Result |
|---|---|
| Average Speed Retention | 85–90% |
| Protocol Used | NordLynx (WireGuard) |
| Longest Stable Session | 8+ hours |
| IP, DNS & WebRTC Leak Tests | No leaks detected |
Security & Privacy Features for Torrenting
NordVPN balances high torrenting speeds with strong privacy safeguards, making it suitable for long-duration P2P use:
- AES-256-GCM encryption for secure data transfer
- NordLynx protocol (WireGuard-based with double NAT)
- System-level kill switch to prevent IP exposure
- Threat Protection to block trackers and malicious domains
- DNS & IPv6 leak protection verified across platforms
Independent Reviews & Further Analysis
NordVPN is frequently referenced by independent reviewers for its balance of performance and privacy. Our full NordVPN review covers audit history, protocol behaviour, and long-term usage testing.
NordVPN Pros & Cons for Torrenting
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
✔ Dedicated P2P-optimised servers ✔ Excellent speed retention (85–90%) ✔ Independently audited no-logs policy ✔ Reliable kill switch and leak protection ✔ Privacy-friendly jurisdiction (Panama) |
✖ Desktop app includes advanced settings (minor learning curve) ✖ No native port-forwarding support ✖ Long-term pricing higher than budget-focused VPNs |
ExpressVPN — Fastest VPN for Torrenting & P2P Downloads
ExpressVPN is widely regarded as one of the most reliable VPNs available, and for torrenting it excels where speed, stability, and simplicity matter most. Unlike providers that restrict P2P traffic, ExpressVPN allows torrenting on all servers, eliminating guesswork entirely.
ExpressVPN Torrenting Policy Explained
ExpressVPN fully supports BitTorrent and P2P traffic across its entire global server network. There are no dedicated or restricted servers — you simply connect and torrent. This is ideal for users who frequently switch locations or want a hassle-free experience.
The company is headquartered in the British Virgin Islands, a privacy-friendly jurisdiction with no mandatory data-retention laws and no participation in the Five, Nine, or Fourteen Eyes alliances. This provides meaningful legal protection for torrent users.
ExpressVPN Torrenting Speed & Stability Tests
In real-world torrenting tests, ExpressVPN consistently delivered excellent speeds with minimal fluctuation. Using qBittorrent and a 5 GB Linux ISO file, we observed smooth downloads and stable seeding even during extended sessions.
| Performance Metric | Result |
|---|---|
| Average Speed Retention | 82–90% |
| Primary Protocol | Lightway |
| Connection Stability | Excellent (No Drops) |
| Leak Test Results | No IP, DNS, or WebRTC leaks |
Lightway Protocol & Torrenting Performance
ExpressVPN’s proprietary Lightway protocol is designed to reduce connection overhead and improve reconnection speed. This makes it particularly effective for torrenting, where long downloads require stable encrypted tunnels.
Lightway uses modern cryptographic libraries while keeping performance overhead low, which explains ExpressVPN’s strong performance even under sustained P2P traffic.
Security & Privacy Features for Torrent Users
- AES-256 encryption for secure data transfer
- TrustedServer technology using RAM-only infrastructure
- Network Lock (kill switch) to prevent IP exposure
- Private DNS on every server with no third-party involvement
- Independently audited no-logs policy
Expert Verdict & Full Review
ExpressVPN is an excellent choice for torrent users who prioritise speed, reliability, and ease of use. While it lacks advanced features such as port forwarding, its consistent performance and privacy record make it one of the safest VPNs for P2P traffic.
For a deeper breakdown of audits, applications, and long-term testing, see our full ExpressVPN review.
ExpressVPN Pros & Cons for Torrenting
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
✔ Torrenting allowed on all servers ✔ Excellent speed retention and stability ✔ RAM-only TrustedServer infrastructure ✔ Strong privacy jurisdiction (BVI) ✔ Extremely easy setup for beginners |
✖ No port forwarding support ✖ Higher price than budget VPNs ✖ Fewer advanced configuration options |
Surfshark — Best Budget VPN for Torrenting with Unlimited Devices
Surfshark is one of the most popular VPNs for torrenting thanks to its rare combination of low pricing, unlimited device connections, and full P2P support. For users who torrent across multiple devices — PCs, laptops, seedboxes, and mobile — Surfshark offers excellent value without sacrificing privacy.
Surfshark Torrenting Policy & P2P Support
Unlike VPNs that restrict P2P traffic to a limited number of locations, Surfshark allows torrenting on all servers. In regions where torrenting is legally sensitive, traffic is automatically routed through P2P-friendly locations such as the Netherlands or Canada.
This intelligent routing removes complexity for users while preserving performance, making Surfshark particularly effective in real-world torrenting scenarios.
Torrenting Speed & Real-World Performance
In testing with qBittorrent and multi-GB Linux ISO files, Surfshark delivered consistently fast and stable speeds. While it trails ExpressVPN slightly at peak performance, it remains more than capable of handling large downloads and long seeding sessions.
| Performance Metric | Result |
|---|---|
| Average Speed Retention | 80–85% |
| Primary Protocol | WireGuard |
| Simultaneous Connections | Unlimited |
| Leak Protection | IP, DNS & WebRTC protected |
Encryption & Protocols for Secure Torrenting
Surfshark uses AES-256-GCM encryption, which delivers strong security with lower overhead than older cipher modes. Combined with the WireGuard protocol, this results in excellent performance for high-bandwidth torrenting.
OpenVPN and IKEv2 are also available for users who prefer alternative protocols.
Privacy, Logging & Jurisdiction
Surfshark operates under a strict, independently audited no-logs policy. While the company is registered in the Netherlands, its RAM-only server architecture ensures that no user activity data is written to disk or retained.
- No activity or connection logs
- RAM-only servers (data wiped on reboot)
- Anonymous payment options available
- Automatic kill switch on all platforms
Extra Features That Matter for Torrent Users
- Unlimited devices — ideal for torrenting households
- CleanWeb — blocks malicious ads and tracker domains
- Split tunneling — route only torrent traffic through the VPN
- MultiHop — optional double-VPN routing for added anonymity
Expert Verdict & Full Review
Surfshark is one of the best VPNs for torrenting if value is your priority. It combines strong speeds, solid privacy protections, and unlimited connections at a price that undercuts most competitors.
For deeper testing data and feature analysis, read our full Surfshark review.
Surfshark Pros & Cons for Torrenting
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
✔ Torrenting allowed on all servers ✔ Unlimited simultaneous connections ✔ Excellent WireGuard speeds ✔ Affordable long-term pricing ✔ CleanWeb malware blocking |
✖ No port forwarding ✖ MultiHop reduces speeds ✖ Interface may feel busy for beginners |
PureVPN — Best VPN for Torrenting With Port Forwarding
PureVPN stands out as one of the few mainstream VPNs that still offers port forwarding, a critical feature for serious torrent users who want faster peer discovery, higher seeding ratios, and more consistent download speeds.
Following major transparency improvements and independent audits, PureVPN has re-established itself as a legitimate, privacy-focused VPN for P2P file sharing.
PureVPN Torrenting Policy & P2P Support
PureVPN explicitly allows torrenting on P2P-optimised servers located in torrent-friendly jurisdictions. These servers are designed to handle sustained high-bandwidth traffic without throttling or artificial speed caps.
Torrent-friendly locations are clearly labelled inside the app, allowing users to select the correct server before launching their torrent client.
Port Forwarding Explained (Why It Matters)
Port forwarding allows your torrent client to accept incoming connections from other peers. Without it, you rely solely on outbound connections, which can reduce swarm participation and slow downloads — especially for less-seeded files.
| Port Forwarding Benefit | Impact on Torrenting |
|---|---|
| More peer connections | Faster downloads & uploads |
| Improved seeding ratios | Better private tracker performance |
| Stable incoming traffic | More reliable swarm participation |
Port forwarding is offered as an optional add-on and is available on supported servers. For advanced users and private tracker members, this feature alone makes PureVPN one of the most capable torrenting VPNs available.
Torrenting Speed & Performance
PureVPN delivers solid torrenting speeds when connected to nearby P2P servers. While it does not always match NordVPN or ExpressVPN at peak throughput, port forwarding often compensates by improving swarm efficiency and stability.
| Performance Metric | Result |
|---|---|
| Average Speed Retention | 75–80% |
| Best Protocol | WireGuard / OpenVPN |
| P2P Server Locations | Multiple (clearly labelled) |
| Kill Switch | Yes |
Privacy, Logging & Jurisdiction
PureVPN is headquartered in the British Virgin Islands, a privacy-friendly jurisdiction with no mandatory data retention laws. This places it outside the Five Eyes, Nine Eyes, and Fourteen Eyes surveillance alliances.
The service operates under a verified no-logs policy, independently audited to confirm that user activity, connection metadata, and IP addresses are not stored.
- No activity or usage logs
- Independently audited privacy policy
- RAM-based infrastructure
- Always-on kill switch
Additional Torrent-Friendly Features
- Port forwarding add-on for advanced P2P users
- Split tunnelling for routing only torrent traffic
- DDoS protection for public swarm safety
- Malware & tracker blocking
Expert Verdict & Full Review
PureVPN is an excellent choice for torrent users who prioritise control and configurability. While raw speeds are slightly below the fastest providers, port forwarding and strong privacy protections make it a standout option for serious P2P users.
For full testing data and configuration guides, read our PureVPN review.
PureVPN Pros & Cons for Torrenting
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
✔ Port forwarding available ✔ P2P-optimised servers ✔ Privacy-friendly BVI jurisdiction ✔ Audited no-logs policy ✔ Affordable long-term plans |
✖ Port forwarding requires add-on ✖ Speeds vary by location ✖ Interface less beginner-friendly |
IPVanish — Best VPN for Torrenting on Unlimited Devices
IPVanish is a strong choice for torrenting households and power users who want unlimited simultaneous connections without sacrificing speed or security. Unlike most VPNs that cap device usage, IPVanish allows every device in your home to torrent under a single subscription.
While IPVanish is headquartered in the United States, it compensates with a strict no-logs policy, full infrastructure ownership, and consistently fast WireGuard performance for P2P traffic.
IPVanish Torrenting Policy & P2P Support
IPVanish allows torrenting on all servers with no bandwidth limits, speed caps, or P2P restrictions. There are no special server labels — users can connect to any location and begin torrenting immediately.
This unrestricted policy makes IPVanish suitable for users who frequently switch locations or want a simple, no-configuration torrenting setup.
Unlimited Connections: Why It Matters for Torrenting
Most VPN providers limit connections to 5–10 devices. IPVanish removes this limit entirely, allowing you to protect every torrent client, desktop, laptop, NAS, and mobile device at the same time.
| Use Case | IPVanish Advantage |
|---|---|
| Multiple torrent clients | Unlimited devices supported |
| Family or shared networks | No extra subscriptions required |
| Seedboxes & NAS setups | Consistent protection across all systems |
Torrenting Speed & Protocol Performance
IPVanish performs best using the WireGuard protocol, delivering strong speeds for large torrent files and sustained seeding sessions. During testing, speed drops remained moderate on nearby servers.
| Performance Metric | Result |
|---|---|
| Average Speed Retention | 70–80% |
| Best Protocol | WireGuard |
| P2P Restrictions | None |
| Kill Switch | Yes (all platforms) |
Privacy, Logging & U.S. Jurisdiction Explained
IPVanish is headquartered in the United States, which introduces additional privacy considerations due to Five Eyes surveillance laws. However, the company operates under a strict no-logs policy that has been independently audited.
IPVanish also owns and operates its entire server network, reducing reliance on third-party hosting providers and limiting external access to user traffic.
- Audited no-logs policy
- No activity or connection logs
- Company-owned infrastructure
- Automatic kill switch & DNS leak protection
Additional Torrent-Friendly Features
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Split tunnelling for torrent apps
- SOCKS5 proxy included (advanced users)
- Traffic scrambling / obfuscation
Expert Verdict & Full Review
IPVanish is best suited for users who want simplicity, speed, and unlimited device coverage. While its U.S. jurisdiction prevents it from ranking as the most anonymous option, its audited no-logs policy and solid P2P performance make it a dependable torrenting VPN.
For detailed testing and privacy analysis, read our IPVanish review.
IPVanish Pros & Cons for Torrenting
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
✔ Unlimited simultaneous connections ✔ Torrenting allowed on all servers ✔ Fast WireGuard speeds ✔ Owns entire server network ✔ SOCKS5 proxy included |
✖ U.S.-based jurisdiction ✖ No dedicated P2P servers ✖ Fewer advanced anonymity tools |
Mullvad — Best VPN for Anonymous Torrenting
Mullvad is the gold standard for users who prioritize absolute anonymity over branding, discounts, or convenience features. Unlike most commercial VPNs, Mullvad requires no email address, no name, and no personal information to create an account.
This makes Mullvad one of the very few VPNs genuinely suited for high-risk torrenting scenarios, journalists, activists, and privacy-focused users who want to minimize their digital footprint.
How Mullvad Enables Truly Anonymous Torrenting
Mullvad assigns users a randomly generated account number instead of an email-based login. Payments can be made using cash, cryptocurrency, or anonymous vouchers, ensuring your identity is never directly linked to your VPN usage.
| Anonymity Feature | Mullvad Implementation |
|---|---|
| Email required | No |
| Account identifiers | Random numeric ID only |
| Anonymous payment options | Cash, Monero, Bitcoin |
| Logging | None (independently audited) |
Torrenting Policy & P2P Support
Mullvad allows torrenting on all servers with no bandwidth limits and no traffic discrimination. Unlike VPNs that restrict P2P to specific locations, Mullvad treats torrent traffic the same as all other encrypted data.
Port forwarding is supported, which significantly improves torrent swarm connectivity and seeding efficiency — a feature many mainstream VPNs have removed.
Speed Performance for Torrenting
Mullvad delivers excellent torrenting speeds using WireGuard, although it prioritizes security consistency over raw peak performance. Speeds remain stable during long seeding sessions.
| Performance Metric | Result |
|---|---|
| Average Speed Retention | 65–75% |
| Best Protocol | WireGuard |
| Port Forwarding | Yes |
| Kill Switch | Always-on (cannot be disabled) |
Jurisdiction & Privacy Audits
Mullvad is headquartered in Sweden, which participates in the 14 Eyes intelligence alliance. Mullvad mitigates jurisdictional risk by collecting no usable customer data, meaning there is nothing meaningful to disclose even under legal pressure.
Independent security audits have repeatedly confirmed Mullvad’s infrastructure, applications, and no-logs claims — a level of transparency that very few VPNs match.
- Independently audited no-logs policy
- RAM-only server infrastructure
- Always-on kill switch
- Fully open-source VPN applications
What Mullvad Does Better Than Commercial VPNs
- No email or identity required
- Flat pricing with no upsells or renewals
- Port forwarding for torrent efficiency
- Open-source apps and transparent audits
Expert Verdict & Full Review
Mullvad is not designed for casual users or streaming enthusiasts. Instead, it excels as a privacy-first torrenting VPN for users who value anonymity above all else.
If your threat model includes surveillance, metadata correlation, or legal scrutiny, Mullvad remains one of the safest torrenting VPNs available.
Read our full technical breakdown in the Mullvad VPN review.
Mullvad Pros & Cons for Torrenting
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
✔ No email or personal data required ✔ Port forwarding supported ✔ Strong WireGuard performance ✔ Open-source applications ✔ Flat, transparent pricing |
✖ No live chat support ✖ Smaller server network ✖ Not optimised for streaming ✖ No discounts or long-term deals |
Best VPNs for Torrenting — Side-by-Side Comparison
To help you choose the safest and fastest VPN for torrenting, we tested each provider across key P2P criteria including speed consistency, logging policy, jurisdiction, kill switch reliability, and torrent-specific features such as port forwarding.
| VPN Provider | P2P Support | Kill Switch | Logging Policy | Jurisdiction | Port Forwarding | Avg Speed Retention | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
NordVPN Read Full Review |
✔ Dedicated P2P servers | ✔ App + system-level | No-logs (audited) | Panama | No | 85–90% | Best overall balance of speed & privacy |
|
ExpressVPN Read Full Review |
✔ All servers | ✔ Network Lock | No-logs (audited) | British Virgin Islands | No | 82–90% | Fast, reliable torrenting with minimal setup |
|
Surfshark Read Full Review |
✔ All servers | ✔ App-level | No-logs (audited) | Netherlands | No | 80–85% | Unlimited devices at a low price |
|
PureVPN Read Full Review |
✔ P2P-optimised servers | ✔ App-level | No-logs (audited) | British Virgin Islands | Limited (add-on) | 75–80% | Advanced users needing port forwarding |
|
IPVanish Read Full Review |
✔ All servers | ✔ System-level | No-logs (audited) | United States | No | 70–80% | Households with many torrenting devices |
|
Mullvad Read Full Review |
✔ All servers | ✔ Always-on | No-logs (audited) | Sweden | ✔ Yes | 65–75% | Maximum anonymity & minimal identity exposure |
While all VPNs listed above support torrenting, the best choice depends on whether you prioritize raw speed, legal safety, or advanced torrent features such as port forwarding or anonymous access.
Torrenting Speed Benchmarks (Real-World VPN Tests)
Torrenting performance depends heavily on how well a VPN handles sustained P2P traffic. Unlike short burst speed tests, torrenting stresses a VPN’s encryption engine, routing logic, and server stability over long sessions.
To ensure fair and repeatable results, we tested each VPN using identical torrent files, consistent client settings, and comparable server distances. All tests were conducted on a 1 Gbps fiber connection with ISP throttling enabled.
How We Tested Torrenting Speeds
- Identical Linux ISO torrent files
- Same torrent client configuration (no upload caps)
- Nearby and long-distance VPN servers
- 15–30 minute sustained download sessions
- Kill switch enabled on all VPNs
Average Torrent Speed Retention
| VPN Provider | Protocol Used | Avg Download Speed | Speed Retention | Stability (Long Sessions) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | NordLynx (WireGuard) | 850–900 Mbps | 85–90% | Excellent |
| ExpressVPN | Lightway | 820–880 Mbps | 82–88% | Excellent |
| Surfshark | WireGuard | 780–850 Mbps | 80–85% | Very Good |
| IPVanish | WireGuard | 720–800 Mbps | 70–80% | Very Good |
| Mullvad | WireGuard | 650–750 Mbps | 65–75% | Good |
| PureVPN | WireGuard | 750–800 Mbps | 75–80% | Good |
Key Speed Takeaways
- NordVPN delivered the highest torrent speeds overall, particularly on nearby P2P-optimised servers.
- ExpressVPN stood out for long-session stability, making it ideal for large downloads and extended seeding.
- Surfshark and IPVanish performed well for everyday torrenting, with minor slowdowns during peak hours.
- Mullvad prioritises anonymity and port forwarding over raw speed, which explains its slightly lower throughput.
While raw speed is important, long-term stability and protection against ISP throttling are just as critical — especially for large files or extended torrent sessions.
ISP Throttling, Copyright Notices & Torrenting Safety
Torrenting without a VPN exposes your real IP address to your internet service provider (ISP), copyright monitoring agencies, and other peers in the torrent swarm. This visibility can lead to bandwidth throttling, warning notices, or even service suspension depending on your country.
A high-quality VPN for torrenting prevents these issues by encrypting your traffic and masking your IP address before it ever reaches your ISP.
How ISPs Detect and Throttle Torrent Traffic
Many ISPs actively monitor BitTorrent traffic using deep packet inspection (DPI). When torrent activity is detected, speeds may be deliberately reduced — often during peak hours — regardless of your advertised internet plan.
During testing, all VPNs featured on this page successfully bypassed ISP throttling by encrypting P2P traffic, making it indistinguishable from regular HTTPS usage.
Copyright Notices: What Really Happens
Copyright enforcement groups monitor torrent swarms and log visible IP addresses. When your real IP is exposed, your ISP may forward a DMCA or copyright notice to your account.
VPNs with a verified no-logs policy ensure there is no activity data to hand over, even if third-party requests are made.
| VPN | No-Logs Policy | Jurisdiction | Third-Party Audited | Kill Switch |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | Yes | Panama | Yes | Yes |
| ExpressVPN | Yes | British Virgin Islands | Yes | Yes |
| Surfshark | Yes | Netherlands | Yes | Yes |
| IPVanish | Yes | United States | Yes | Yes |
| Mullvad | Yes | Sweden | Yes | Yes |
| PureVPN | Yes | British Virgin Islands | Yes | Yes |
Essential Safety Features for Torrenting
- Kill switch: Immediately blocks internet traffic if the VPN disconnects
- DNS & IPv6 leak protection: Prevents accidental IP exposure
- P2P-optimised servers: Improve stability and peer connectivity
- Strong encryption: AES-256 or ChaCha20 standards
- No-logs policy: Ensures activity cannot be traced or disclosed
Is Torrenting Legal?
Torrenting technology itself is legal in most countries. Many open-source projects, software distributions, and public datasets rely on BitTorrent for efficient delivery.
However, downloading copyrighted material without permission may be illegal depending on your jurisdiction. A VPN protects your privacy, but users should always comply with local laws.
For additional privacy context, see our Best No-Log VPNs and VPNs for Restricted Networks guides.
Best VPN for Torrenting – Frequently Asked Questions
Is torrenting legal when using a VPN?
Torrenting technology itself is legal in many countries and is commonly used to distribute open-source software and public data. However, downloading or sharing copyrighted material without permission may be illegal depending on your local laws.
A VPN protects your privacy and hides your IP address, but it does not make illegal activity legal. Users should always comply with copyright laws in their jurisdiction.
Can my ISP see torrenting activity if I use a VPN?
When you use a VPN, your internet traffic is encrypted before it reaches your ISP. This prevents your ISP from seeing that you are torrenting or monitoring the files you download.
ISPs may still see that you are using a VPN, but they cannot identify torrent traffic or throttle it based on content.
Which VPN is best for anonymous torrenting?
VPNs with strict, independently audited no-logs policies and strong privacy protections offer the highest level of anonymity for torrenting.
Based on our 2026 testing, NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Mullvad provide the strongest combination of privacy safeguards, kill switch reliability, and jurisdictional protection for torrent users.
Do free VPNs work for torrenting?
Free VPNs are not suitable for torrenting. Most impose strict bandwidth limits, throttle P2P traffic, or log user activity to monetise the service.
For safe torrenting, a paid VPN with a verified no-logs policy, reliable kill switch, and P2P support is strongly recommended.
Final Verdict: Best VPN for Torrenting in 2026
The best VPN for torrenting in 2026 must deliver more than fast download speeds. It must provide strong privacy protection, a verified no-logs policy, reliable kill switch functionality, and consistent P2P performance across long torrenting sessions.
Based on extensive hands-on testing, NordVPN is the best overall VPN for torrenting. It offers the strongest balance of speed retention, privacy safeguards, audited no-logs protection, and P2P-optimised infrastructure.
ExpressVPN is an excellent alternative for users who prioritise jurisdictional privacy, simplicity, and long-term reliability, while Surfshark delivers outstanding value for users who torrent on multiple devices or want the lowest long-term cost.
While torrenting technology itself is widely used for legitimate purposes, protecting your privacy is essential. Choosing a reputable VPN with proven no-logs policies and strong leak protection significantly reduces exposure to ISP monitoring and traffic throttling.
Related VPN Guides & Resources
The following guides provide deeper analysis across VPN use cases, including streaming, gaming, device compatibility, and provider reviews. These resources are regularly updated and tested using the same methodology as this torrenting guide.
VPN Category & Comparison Pages
| VPN Topic | Guide |
|---|---|
| All-Purpose VPN Comparisons | Best VPN Services (2026) |
| Gaming Performance | Best VPN for Gaming (2026) |
| Low-Latency Gaming | Best Gaming VPN for Low Ping (2026) |
| Streaming & Geo-Unblocking | Best VPN for Streaming (2026) |
| Firestick & Android TV | Best VPNs for Firestick (2026) |
| P2P & Torrenting | Best VPN for Torrenting (2026) |
In-Depth VPN Provider Reviews
| VPN Provider | Full Review |
|---|---|
| NordVPN | NordVPN Review (2026) |
| ExpressVPN | ExpressVPN Review (2026) |
| Surfshark | Surfshark VPN Review |
| PureVPN | PureVPN Review (2026) |
| IPVanish | IPVanish Review (2026) |
| Mullvad | Mullvad VPN Review (2026) |