OysterVPN Review 2024: Before You Buy, Is It Worth It?

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 plans 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 subscribe, expect to share your payment method and email address. These details are essential for account management, subscription 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 plan 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.

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.

For more in-depth assistance, OysterVPN provides a comprehensive support guide. This resource hub encompasses FAQs, troubleshooting, billing information, and server list details. It’s designed to be easily navigable, ensuring users find answers efficiently, a testament to OysterVPN’s user-focused approach to offering practical solutions.

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.