What is the Speed Difference Between Free and Premium?
Published Jan 28, 2019 · Updated Aug 13, 2026
We often have users inquire about the speed differences between the Free Edition of Betternet and the Premium Edition. There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The speed will vary from user to user. Factors like ISP (Internet Service Provider), your actual download and upload speeds, the physical distance to the server, your actual location, time of day, and physical hardware can all have positive as well as adverse effects on the speed.
Also, please keep in mind that when you’re connected to Betternet or any VPN service, data going in and out of your device travels through the VPN servers first before reaching their target. That's how internet anonymity is achieved and why it's normal to experience speed reduction from 30%-50% when using any VPN service.
Below is a sample of speed test results that show the difference between the Free Client and the Premium Client. We are only able to show speed tests for United States Virtual Location as the Free Edition of Betternet does not provide any other Virtual Locations.
EXAMPLE:
Betternet Free Client:

Betternet Premium Client:
