VPN stands for Virtual Private Network. It is a term you may have heard of, especially when there are some privacy factors, such as geography. There are some popular VPN apps including Touch VPN, NordVPN or BetterNet. Mentioning BetterNet, this is a great VPN which is used by more than 38 million people around the world. Although this service witnesses a fantastic increase, it still receives many criticisms. The reason originates from a study which revealed that it pushes advertisements to users.
However, these complaints are not true with BetterNet Premium APK. In this article, it is highly recommended that you should use the paid packages or premium. There will be no ads for funds, bringing you a more decent experience.
First Impressions and Specifications
Betternet Hotspot VPN is compatible with many operating systems for both laptops and mobile phones. As mentioned above, the free version of BetterNet cannot satisfy most of the customers. So, in this section, let’s see the differences between a paid version and a free version.
Regarding the premium version, you can get a full refund for 30 days when you do not use over 50 MB of BetterNet traffic. And all streaming accessing services are not granted by the premium subscription. So, mostly, the BetterNet stops attempts to connect.
Moreover, you can try the BetterNet Premium for free. The new users can get a free trial for 7 days with one IP address. You just need to register by providing billing information. Then, you will receive an email informing the trial starts. Remember to cancel the service after 7 days if you do not want to get charged automatically.
A benefit when using Betternet Hotspot VPN is that you can recover it after uninstalling for any reason. To be more specific, you click the button “I’m already premium” to redeem your account. After that, you fill in your email and you receive an activation link. A premium account can be used in 6 devices, so you can use it on another device freely.
In terms of the free version, the 500 MB traffic limit for each day does not work. Besides, some ads appeared in the Android app. However, the vendor has announced transparently about this policy as it is a way to help them earn money.
Overview of Some Features
Servers
If you have bought the premium version, there is a list including different servers for you to choose from. However, this is all that this VPN service enables you to do. You are not allowed to alter the VPN protocol or ask whether you want to open a VPN with TCP or UDP. For example, BetterNet supports the Catapult Hydra of the Hotspot Shield to make the connections. The Catapult Hydra is very fast, but it has no control or flexibility, so it can make some users disappointed.
To select the appropriate server location, you click the “select virtual location” function. Here, you will see and choose among 10 countries and 7 cities in the US. This seems to be a proper amount, but there are several other VPNs providing services for over 50 countries.
Fortunately, turning into another server location is relatively simple. You do not need to disconnect your recent server before switching to the new server. This VPN will automatically do it for you.
User Experience
The downloading process for BetterNet VPN is quite simple. First, you visit the official website to get the application. Normally, it is on your right-hand corner. When launching the application, you will be asked if you want to try a premium or not. Agree if you want to use the premium version.
After selecting the appropriate plan, you can choose from the list of 10 countries. You select your favorite server and click the “connect” function. It is noticeable that the VPN connects rapidly, and no problems occurred. When the connection is established, the shield changes into the blue with a happy face. This means that you do it right and everything’s okay now.
Basic Function
It seems that the features of Betternet Hotspot VPNk are very basic. The location list comprises only a name list with no sorting, no ping times, no favorite system, or search box. The app even if does not notice when the VPN drops, or it is active. You have to check the window to know.
Besides, there are only a few settings. As a default, the “Prevent IP Leak” and “Reconnect Automatically” will be enabled and you should follow this setting. Otherwise, you can set up an automatic connection for the app when you access other network types or insecure networks.
There is an unusual feature named “Exclude Domains”. This feature allows defining domains that will not be routed through the tunnel. For instance, when the IPs outside your living country are blocked by the local streaming site, you can add its domain. Then, you can use it regularly in the future.
Performance
It can be said that the performance of Betternet Hotspot VPN is quite good. It is not surprising with this when BetterNet uses speedy servers of Hotspot Shield along with the efficient protocol of Catapult Hydra. Specifically, Vietnam servers give 50Mbps even though it is a less well-connected location. Whereas, UK server hits nearly 70Mbps.
Furthermore, privacy tests also give positive results. The services with DolLeak, IPLeak, or other sites are checked and there are no issues with WebRTC, DNS, and other leaks in the Windows system.
Benefits of Using BetterNet Premium
Five Simultaneous Connections
As you may know, the BetterNet allows five simultaneous connections. It means that you work on a laptop when watching movies on your phone or listening to music on the tablet. Several VPN providers ask for a paid subscription but not offer this feature. This is more convenient when you do not need to disconnect a device for another connection through the VPN.
Peer-to-Peer Connections
BetterNet is one of the VPN services allowing other people to access your connection. Of course, it is with the case that the VPN is remaining to protect your connection and you permit other people to access. This seems to be a useful feature.
In reality, several paid VPN services block the P2P connections as they do not need to deal with court orders related to copyright infringement. These infringements are from downloads and uploads from a torrent which used commonly with P2P.
Disadvantages of Using BetterNet Premium
Lack of Some Essential Features
As a premium service, BetterNet should have had more interesting features but this service cannot meet this need. Here are some important features that are missed:
- DNS leak protection
- A kill switch
- ‘Stealth’ technology
- A cloaking system
- Port forwarding selection
Limited Customer Support
Normally, you can access customer support through the official website, especially when you pay for a premium service. Members even can require help guides. Unfortunately, the BetterNet is not good at this support.
There will be no live chat, email address, or phone numbers to contact. This means that if you have trouble with the service, you cannot have your problems resolved quickly.
The Verdict
The Betternet Hotspot VPN is a basic VPN software with some specific features. It allows users to stream without many troubles. Besides, Betternet Hotspot VPN does not come with adverts, brief privacy policy, and leaves many grey areas that give you a more secure feeling.
Additional Information
- Version 7.4.0
- Requires Android 5.0+
- Update June 19, 2024
- Developed by Betternet, LLC
- Google Play ID com.freevpnintouch
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