OysterVPNReview 2026: Before You Buy, Is It Worth It?

• Written By Clement Adegbenro Cybersecurity & Tech Writer

OysterVPN Overview

OysterVPN’s bold claims of unparalleled security, privacy, and speed intrigued me. I was skeptical, especially from a smaller company, as these are tall orders even for industry giants. My hands-on testing aimed to verify these claims and see how this VPN stacks up against industry leaders.

Despite its low profile, OysterVPN emerged as a potential gem . Offering robust security and privacy features, it also excels in streaming and torrenting, complemented by a user-friendly interface. Its responsive support impressed, but limitations in server availability and restricted features on non-Android and Windows platforms were notable drawbacks.

If you’re hesitant to commit, OysterVPN provides a reassuring safety net with its 30-day money-back guarantee . Whether streaming or secure browsing, you can evaluate its performance on your own and make an informed decision about its suitability for your needs.

Don’t Have Time? Here’s a 1-Minute Summary

• OysterVPN works with Netflix, Max, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+. However, it struggles with Hulu and Amazon Prime Video. Check out my detailed streaming tests .
• The service boasts impressive speeds. My tests revealed significant download rates using OysterVPN. Find out the precise speeds I experienced .
• OysterVPN has dedicated servers for streaming and torrenting. OysterVPN provides specialized servers, albeit in a limited range. Discover more about these servers .
• The VPN shows limited compatibility with various devices. While it works on major platforms, its reach stops there. Learn about the devices not supported by this VPN .
• The customer service provided by OysterVPN is efficient. The support team is both approachable and well-informed. Observe their response times in my review .
• OysterVPN’s pricing is competitive. Considering its features, OysterVPN is reasonably priced. Review the pricing details for various OysterVPN offers .

The service includes 5 dedicated servers optimized for streaming: 3 in the US, and 1 each in the UK and India. Identifying these servers is straightforward, as they’re labeled “streaming” in the desktop app or grouped conveniently in the mobile app.

Netflix, Max, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer: Accessed

OysterVPN showed its strength with Netflix UK in my tests. It started a bit slow, then smoothly ramped up to 4K quality after a short wait. This was consistent with findings from our US and Indian teams, who experienced similar results while streaming Netflix’s US and Indian libraries.

When I switched to BBC iPlayer, using the London server, it was a breeze. Even during live Badminton matches, the streams were fluid, without lag or buffering. For UK content, OysterVPN seems to stand out in delivering a hassle-free viewing experience.

For Disney+ access, our global testers reported consistent success. While the Atlanta streaming-optimized server occasionally faltered, other servers readily compensated, ensuring uninterrupted streaming. This resilience across servers is a notable strength of OysterVPN.

Our team’s experience with Max was also largely positive. While streaming Iron Man 2 was easy with all the optimized US servers, we bumped into some VPN blocks midway. A quick switch to incognito mode solved this, hinting that the browser’s cache might have been the culprit.

Besides the major platforms, OysterVPN can stream from a range of services like YouTube, Sling, Hotstar, Voot, and ESPN+, among others listed on its website.

Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as CyberGhost VPN. That said, our detailed reviews follow a strict methodology that examines all relevant performance factors to help you arrive at your own informed conclusion.

Fast on Nearby Servers

OysterVPN delivered solid speeds consistently across short-distance servers. While it doesn’t enhance ISP-limited speeds, its unlimited bandwidth across all offers ensures you’re never restricted, making it a reliable choice for high-bandwidth activities.

Speed Test Results

My speed tests showed that proximity to OysterVPN’s server largely dictates speed efficiency. I initiated my tests without a VPN to establish a baseline. My connection speed showed 125Mbps for downloads and 10.92Mbps for uploads, with a latency of 33ms. This benchmark is crucial for comparing OysterVPN’s impact on internet speed.

OysterVPN’s recommended UK server was my first stop. Impressively, it maintained download speeds above 90Mbps, a minor decrease from the baseline. The upload speed remained almost unchanged, and ping increased slightly, showing OysterVPN’s efficiency on local servers.

Testing a French server revealed low latency despite the greater distance. Download speed dropped by about a third, and upload was nearly halved. Yet, at almost 80Mbps, the speed was adequate for most online activities, including secure browsing and media consumption.

Next, I turned my focus to the U.S., given its streaming service popularity. Here, OysterVPN reached 73.06Mbps download speeds, a roughly 40% decrease. Although significant, this speed is still sufficient for most tasks. Remarkably, upload speeds stayed consistent, and latency increased to 137ms.

The Hong Kong server presented the biggest challenge. Ping skyrocketed to 308ms, and speeds halved compared to my baseline. This could lead to noticeable lags, depending on your original bandwidth. Web pages loaded slower, but video streaming was still smooth.

Consistency is critical for VPNs, and OysterVPN didn’t disappoint. With no dropouts or significant lags noted, it proved reliable. I left it running overnight, and it maintained a stable 17-hour connection, negating the need for frequent kill switch engagements.

Is OysterVPN Fast Enough for Gaming? Yes!

OysterVPN impressed me with its gaming performance, particularly on local servers. In my gaming tests, it consistently met key gaming criteria, offering upload speeds between 6-8Mbps and maintaining a ping under 37ms. With this, I could play Killstreak lag-free with no uninterrupted play.

However, when connecting to distant servers, OysterVPN’s performance varies. While local servers guarantee seamless gaming, distant ones occasionally cause ping spikes and increased latency. This may lead to potential disruptions, especially in fast-paced games.

Overall, it is a strong choice for gamers. Despite some inconsistencies with remote servers, Oyster VPN largely delivers a satisfying gaming experience. It maintains the necessary speed and latency, making it a viable option for those prioritizing in-game performance while using a VPN.

Server Network — Over 150 Servers Worldwide

OysterVPN offers a modest network of over 150 servers across 30+ countries , striking a balance between reach and performance. Its network is smaller than that of giants like CyberGhost, yet it covers key locations effectively. You’ll find it suitable for everyday online activities, ensuring you have both speed and accessibility at your fingertips.

The server distribution is primarily concentrated in the US with 8 servers, followed by the UK and Canada with 2 and 1 server in each of the remaining countries. Specialized servers are also part of the mix , including 5 for content streaming – 3 in the US, 1 in the UK, and 1 in India, broadening its appeal. Plus, all of OysterVPN’s servers are P2P-friendly, adding to its utility.

A notable aspect of OysterVPN is its security approach, using RAM-only servers. Unlike some rivals, it leases servers from trusted providers, not owning them directly. This might raise questions about control and security for you, especially if top-tier privacy is your priority in a VPN service.

Security — Reassuring Security Profile

OysterVPN’s security capabilities are impressive and designed to protect online activities effectively. The service combines top-grade encryption with specialized features, ensuring your online presence remains secure and private.

Here’s a closer look at what it offers:

• 256-bit AES encryption – This top-tier encryption secures your data, rendering it indecipherable to outsiders. Used by global security agencies, it assures that your online actions remain confidential.
• Security Protocols – OysterVPN primarily employs OpenVPN, which is known for its high security. Alternatives like PPTP, IKEv2, and L2TP/IPsec are also available, providing flexibility in balancing security and performance.
• Split tunneling – Available on Android and Windows, this feature lets you selectively route app or website traffic through the VPN. It’s useful for simultaneously accessing local and remote content securely and efficiently.
• Internet kill switch – In case of sudden internet dropouts, the kill switch promptly intervenes, maintaining your privacy until the connection is restored. This feature acts as a safety net, preventing accidental exposure to your activities.
• Anti-malware protection – This feature actively defends against malicious software, enhancing your online safety.
• Ad blocker – The included ad blocker efficiently eliminates annoying ads, contributing to a smoother online experience without distractions.
• Auto connect – This feature adds a layer of convenience and security. It can be customized to activate in specific scenarios like public Wi-Fi usage or when navigating certain websites, reinforcing security without manual intervention.
• Leak protection – Ensuring your DNS or IP details remain undisclosed, OysterVPN’s leak protection feature guarantees your location and transmitted data’s confidentiality. This is a crucial aspect of maintaining anonymity online.

To truly put OysterVPN to the test, I conducted thorough testing for IP/DNS leaks. Using various reputable services, I assessed the VPN across multiple servers. The results were conclusive – no DNS information leakage , affirming OysterVPN’s effectiveness in safeguarding your digital footprint.

Privacy — Clear Logging Policy

OysterVPN prioritizes your privacy, ensuring no user logs are stored at any time. Unlike many VPN services, it operates independently, free from third-party server management. This commitment to privacy is a core aspect of its service, keeping your online activities exclusively yours.

When you purchase, expect to share your payment method and email address.These details are essential for account management, offer renewals, and customer support. Rest assured, this information is never linked to your browsing activities, maintaining a clear boundary between personal data and online actions.

OysterVPN is headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, a location strategically chosen for privacy advantages. Ireland’s non-affiliation with the 5/9/14 Eyes alliance means it’s not compelled to share user data internationally. This geographic choice reinforces OysterVPN’s dedication to safeguarding user privacy, aligning seamlessly with its no-logs promise.

Torrenting — Optimized Servers for Torrenting

OysterVPN proves a reliable choice for torrenting enthusiasts. Its high-speed connections ensure quick downloads. Every server is P2P-friendly, giving you a wide selection of connections. Importantly, its strong encryption and no-log policy ensure you remain anonymous, a key factor for secure torrenting.

The split tunneling feature of OysterVPN is particularly advantageous. This tool allows precise control over which apps or websites use the VPN and which connect directly to the internet. It’s an invaluable asset for optimizing local connectivity speeds while maintaining protected browsing for specific tasks, a balance not found in all VPNs.

Remember, OysterVPN is a tool for responsible use. My team and I do not support illegal torrenting practices. Always stay informed about your country’s laws and avoid downloading copyrighted content without authorization.

Does OysterVPN Work in China? No!

China’s rigorous internet controls pose a challenge that OysterVPN isn’t equipped to handle. Reaching out to OysterVPN support yielded little assurance about its performance there. As a result, those in China, be it for travel or residency, might find OysterVPN unreliable for consistent online privacy protection.

If you offer on traveling to China, consider ExpressVPN as your first choice of VPN , as it has consistently proven to work there. Remember, while using unapproved VPNs in China can be risky, there’s no notable backlash against tourists yet. Instead of direct penalties, China’s approach focuses on limiting VPN effectiveness within its borders.

Simultaneous Device Connections — Up to 5 Devices

OysterVPN impressively supports up to 5 devices at once , ensuring your digital protection isn’t limited to just 1 gadget. This feature is particularly beneficial for households juggling multiple devices. You’ll find that it protects each connected device efficiently, maintaining speed and stability without compromise.

While the industry norm hovers around 10 devices, OysterVPN’s 5-device limit typically suffices for individual needs. However, if your setup exceeds this number, consider alternatives like CyberGhost, which extends support to 7 devices , offering a slightly broader scope of device protection.

Device Compatibility — Available on All Major Platforms

OysterVPN offers compatibility with major operating systems like Windows, iOS, Android, Linux, and macOS. It also caters to Fire TV, enhancing your viewing experience. You can use IKEv2 and OpenVPN configurations for a personalized setup, which is downloadable from its website. These require a third-party app for integration on your devices.

Although OysterVPN doesn’t directly support routers and gaming consoles, it offers a workaround. You can manually configure its OpenVPN files for routers like Netgear, Huawei, and Linksys. This setup extends OysterVPN’s capabilities to your broader digital environment, although it requires a bit of technical know-how.

One limitation to note is the absence of browser extensions. It’s a trade-off for OysterVPN’s core service, focusing on robust, system-wide protection rather than convenience in specific applications. This could influence how you use OysterVPN for your online security needs.

Ease of Setup & Installation — Straightforward to Install

OysterVPN’s setup offers a straightforward yet functional experience. Its interface, featuring a clear server list and a connect button, ensures you quickly find and start your VPN connection. Whether you’re a VPN novice or a seasoned user, you’ll appreciate the intuitive design that prioritizes ease of use without sacrificing functionality.

In the settings, OysterVPN caters to your need for customization . You can choose protocols to suit your needs, and for Android and Windows, enjoy advanced features like a kill switch and split tunneling. Remember, these particular features aren’t available on other platforms, which could be crucial in how you use OysterVPN.

One notable limitation is server switching. You must first disconnect from your current server before switching to another. This extra step, while manageable, can interrupt your online activities. It’s a minor setback in an otherwise smooth experience, highlighting a balance between ease of use and functionality.

Steps to Installing OysterVPN on Windows:

1. Initiate the Download. Go to the OysterVPN website. Click on “Download” to start downloading the app.
2. Install the App. Once downloaded, open the file and follow the on-screen instructions to install the OysterVPN app on your Windows device.
3. Launch the App. Find OysterVPN in your Windows start menu and open it.
4. Create an account or sign in. Set up a new account or sign in with existing credentials.
5. Select a Server. Choose a server location from the list available in the app.
6. Connect to the VPN. Click on the “Connect” button to enable your VPN connection.

OysterVPN’s support system offers multiple contact channels including email and live chat. In my testing, the live chat’s promptness stood out – connecting to an agent in under a minute, with accurate responses to queries. Email responses are equally efficient, typically arriving within 8 hours, a testament to its commitment to customer service.

Additionally, OysterVPN maintains an active blog , a valuable resource for enhancing your understanding of VPNs. It covers a range of topics, from privacy and security to optimal VPN usage. This feature is particularly beneficial if you want to deepen your knowledge, catering to beginners and tech-savvy individuals.

OysterVPN offers 2 purchase options: monthly and yearly , both featuring identical benefits. You gain multi-logins, streaming servers, unlimited data, and server switches. Notably, there’s a zero logs policy, anti-malware protection, and P2P-optimized servers. It’s a package for comprehensive online privacy and flexibility, catering to diverse online needs.

If you prefer short-term commitments, consider the monthly offer. It includes an additional 3 months of free usage, offering a taste of OysterVPN’s full capabilities without a long-term commitment. If you’re exploring different VPN services or need a temporary privacy solution, this option suits you.

For a more budget-friendly approach, OysterVPN’s yearly offer might be more appealing. It provides a significant saving compared to the monthly offer during a year.

Payment methods include credit cards and PayPal, though cryptocurrency options have yet to be available. Despite the lack of a free trial, OysterVPN mitigates this with a 30-day money-back guarantee . It was also effortless to get a refund. When I contacted the 24/7 chat support to ask to cancel my offer, the agent asked me only 1 question and promptly processed my refund.

OysterVPN has the following offers

Final Verdict

OysterVPN strikes a fine balance between good features and affordability. It delivers reliable performance for security, streaming, gaming, and downloading, all without a hefty price tag. Its user-friendly app smoothly syncs with various devices, ensuring up to 5 of yours stay protected under 1 offer.

If your VPN needs to extend beyond what OysterVPN offers, consider exploring ExpressVPN as an alternative . It’s covered by a 30*-day money-back guarantee, so getting a refund is easy if you decide it isn’t for you.

Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. That said, our detailed reviews follow a strict methodology that examines all relevant performance factors to help you arrive at your own informed conclusion.

No, OysterVPN is only available for a fee , lacking both a free version and a trial. Its appeal lies in the 30-day money-back guarantee , letting you test it without financial commitment. Its affordable pricing includes a bonus of 3 extra months on a 1-month offer.

While seeking a free VPN might seem appealing, remember they often cut corners in security or speed. OysterVPN, though requiring a commitment, ensures you don’t trade off essential features for cost. If a no-cost solution is critical for you, these are reliable free VPNs to explore .

Yes! OysterVPN offers reliable safety , upholding a strict no-logs policy and effectively concealing your IP address in tests. However, unlike some leading VPNs, its no-logging claim lacks independent verification, potentially affecting your absolute assurance in its privacy guarantees.

• Overall
• Speed
• Servers
• User Experience
• Support
• Pricing

Editor’s Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. That said, our detailed reviews follow a strict methodology that examines all relevant performance factors to help you arrive at your own informed conclusion.