VPN (virtual private networks) connect a client device to the server via tunneling. The process uses security protocols to set authentication parameters and encryption profiles. Hence, a VPN can allow users remote access to network resources. Also, it can exist on a public communications channel like the internet. Thus, a user can utilize its infrastructure to access the internet while hiding behind a remote server IP address. VPNs have many applications, but today’s consumer market deems them the forerunner for internet security and online privacy, Turkey included.
Consequently, a VPN can sufficiently curb online surveillance, data mining and snooping, targeted marketing, and cybercrime. However, not everyone welcomes the intrusion of VPNs in their lives, especially those doing the surveillance and such. As a result, some countries actively try to ban the usage of VPNs. Turkey is one such country where the existence of VPNs is frowned upon. Yet, here we are with our list of best VPNs for Turkey. Let’s take a look.
Disclaimer — We do not recommend using VPNs against the law. We never condone illegal activities such as bypassing blocks authorities put in place. The article is a subjective representation and does not hold authority.
Can you use VPNs in Turkey?
In short, yes, Turkey doesn’t ban VPN unilaterally. Instead, it practices blocking by employing DPI (Deep Packet Inspection). However, using a VPN in Turkey is not illegal. Meaning, if you try to access a banned website using a VPN, you won’t be liable, although you’d be subject to Turkish law. Since November 2016, the country started to target Tor (The Onion Router) and several VPNs as the Information and Communication Technologies Authority ordered the Turkish ISPs. Although, the Turkish DPI isn’t as effective as the Chinese one. Thus, VPNs with obfuscation still work flawlessly within the country.
Now you know using a VPN is legal in Turkey. A citizen won’t get prosecuted for attempting to access a blocked site via VPNs. But once you gain access, a VPN won’t help as you will be under Turkish law. It may sound complicated, but the gist remains that doing anything illegal with a VPN won’t make it legal. Here are some popular VPNs that do not work in Turkey:
- TunnelBear
- PIA
- IPVanish
- ZenMate
- Hotspot Shield
Also, keep in mind that a VPN with port forwarding will have a greater chance to work within Turkey.
Top 5 VPNs for Turkey
Are you a Turkish citizen or just visiting? Regardless, our list of leading providers of VPNs in Turkey can help:
1. Astrill VPN
With exclusive servers in Turkey and two proprietary obfuscation protocols, Astrill VPN is the best at bypassing censorship. At $12.5 per month on a yearly plan, it tends to be the costliest VPN out there. Nonetheless, this Seychelles-based company offers quality service with over 107 optimized servers. Furthermore, thanks to a fast-acting kill switch and other security features, the service doesn’t leak IP, DNS, or WebRTC information. Astrill VPN also claims to have an unprecedented record of 100% uptime. Moreover, the service is also good from the privacy point of view as the vendor offers a strict no-logging policy.
However, on the downside, Astrill VPN offers neither a refund policy nor a trial version. This can alienate users, given how costly a monthly subscription is. Another point to heed is the absence of obfuscation technology on the mobile app. We advise readers to give our detailed Astrill VPN review a quick look, for it can render a better understanding of the service.
2. NordVPN
Another entry on the list is the popular NordVPN. The service caters to a global customer base with over 5200 servers. Also, the brand invokes trust and holds a reputation as one of the most transparent VPNs out there. It is perhaps the only vendor to offer consecutive independent audits to ensure users of its no-logs policy. The company hails from Panama and favors data privacy. NordVPN has exclusive servers in and around Turkey to facilitate a stable and fast connection. Besides Turkey, the location includes Greece, Bulgaria, Cyprus, and Israel.
Although NordVPN has an obfuscation mode, it fails to impress as it is unsuitable for high censorship states like China. However, the service is perfect for Turkey. Also, the VPN is relatively cheaper than most other providers, albeit with a long-term plan. For more details, users can read our NordVPN review.
3. VyprVPN
VyprVPN may be a bit expensive at $8.33 per month (for a 12-month plan), but it has decent obfuscation capabilities. Thus, the VPN works in Turkey despite the country banning it. The Switzerland-based service employs a strict no-logging policy atop other distinct features as the Chameleon protocol. Furthermore, it comes with over 700 servers and 300,000 IP addresses. Further, its client apps are beginner-friendly, with a simple interface, yet effective.
VyprVPN offers a niche service for a clientele that finds Chameleon especially beneficial. It also needs consistency in terms of circumventing blocks. Plus, the service lacks web browsers extensions and SmartDNS. But in the absence of a better alternative, VyprVPN can get the job done. To learn more, read our exhaustive VyprVPN review.
4. ExpressVPN
Most censorship-heavy states have targeted ExpressVPN due to its popularity in early 2022. Thus, the service had to close servers in Russia and China to mitigate losses. Also, most countries outright ban it to demote its use. Despite all that, ExpressVPN works well enough in Turkey. Yes, it is not as constant as we want it to be. However, at $8.3 per month on an annual plan and with servers in Turkey and neighboring countries, the vendor is one of the optimum choices available. The company hails from the British Virgin Islands and has a strict no-logs policy. Its proper application is confirmed by regular independent audits they request.
With 3700 servers, ExpressVPN is a quality service. It is easy to use, fast, and secure enough in the country, which makes it one of the popular VPNs for Turkey. As if that wasn’t enough, the vendor offers a 30-day money-back guarantee for a worry-free sign-up. Interested readers can head to our ExpressVPN review page.
5. PrivateVPN
The final VPN to make this list is also the cheapest: PrivateVPN. At about $2 per month, the service is a value for money product. However, it has a somewhat smaller and restrictive network of 200 servers. But the reason the vendor made the cut is its ability to easily bypass censorship. Further, at such favorable prices, the company offers a proprietary Stealth VPN protocol as effective obfuscation technology.
The Swedish-based VPN employs a strict zero-logs policy and prevents common types of leaks. Plus, it is a beginner-friendly service that offers straightforward but functional apps. Although it has limited servers, you can find a few active ones in Turkey and neighboring countries. Sadly, customer support leaves much to be desired. Check our PrivateVPN review for more information.