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To search privately with DuckDuckGo for free, go to duckduckgo.com or select DuckDuckGo as your browser’s search engine. That covers searches made through DuckDuckGo; for protections while visiting other sites, use the DuckDuckGo browser or a supported browser extension. The browser is free on Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. DuckDuckGo’s VPN and other subscription services are optional paid extras.
Choose the level of privacy you want
DuckDuckGo search and browser protections are separate. DuckDuckGo says its search is encrypted and does not track users’ searches. Searching with DuckDuckGo does not, by itself, add tracker blocking or other browser protections to unrelated websites. DuckDuckGo describes those protections as ways to reduce tracking, not as a guarantee of anonymity or protection from every form of monitoring or data collection.
- Search only: Visit DuckDuckGo or set it as the default search engine in a browser that supports that option.
- Protection while browsing: Use the DuckDuckGo browser or a supported extension to apply browser-level features on other sites.
- More services: Consider a subscription only if you want paid features such as DuckDuckGo’s VPN.
DuckDuckGo describes its search as private in its privacy explanation; that is the company’s own description of its service, not an independent audit.
How to start using DuckDuckGo
Search without changing browsers
- Open duckduckgo.com.
- Enter a search query. To keep using DuckDuckGo in your usual browser, select it as the default search engine in that browser’s search settings, if available.
This uses DuckDuckGo Search; it does not install DuckDuckGo browser protections on other websites.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Add browser protections
- Download the DuckDuckGo browser for your device. DuckDuckGo lists versions for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android.
- Alternatively, install a supported DuckDuckGo extension in a compatible browser.
- Review the browser’s settings and available protections. Features include tracker and ad blocking, cookie pop-up handling, a password manager, and one-click deletion of browsing data. Behavior and feature availability can vary by operating system.
See DuckDuckGo’s browser and app page for current platform details. DuckDuckGo says it funds its free browser through privacy-respecting search ads.
Create an Email Protection alias
Email Protection removes hidden trackers from forwarded messages and gives you unique @duck.com addresses that deliver mail to an existing inbox. It is forwarding, not a replacement email inbox.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
- iOS or Android: Open DuckDuckGo browser Settings and select Email Protection.
- Desktop: Visit duckduckgo.com/email while using the DuckDuckGo desktop browser or a supported extension.
What is free, and what requires a subscription?
DuckDuckGo’s free options include Search, browser extensions, and its browser. The browser page also lists features such as tracker blocking, cookie pop-up handling, Email Protection, a password manager, and one-click data deletion; check the current app details for the features supported on your platform.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
DuckDuckGo also offers paid Plus and Pro subscriptions. The company describes Plus as including a VPN, advanced Duck.ai access, Personal Information Removal, and Identity Theft Restoration. Pro includes Plus features with additional Duck.ai model access and usage limits. DuckDuckGo says the VPN, Personal Information Removal, and Identity Theft Restoration are accessed in its browser, while Duck.ai can be used in any browser. Feature and country availability may vary.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
| Plan | What DuckDuckGo lists | U.S. price listed |
|---|---|---|
| Plus | VPN, advanced Duck.ai access, Personal Information Removal, Identity Theft Restoration | $9.99 per month or $99.99 per year |
| Pro | Plus features, additional Duck.ai model access and usage limits | $19.99 per month or $199.99 per year |
These prices are the U.S. figures on DuckDuckGo’s subscription pricing page; prices can change, and regional pricing may differ or include VAT outside the United States. Check the live page for your location before subscribing. DuckDuckGo’s subscription terms are another source for plan conditions.
How to install DuckDuckGo’s VPN
The VPN is a paid subscription feature, not part of free search. DuckDuckGo’s setup guide gives this browser path:
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
- Open the DuckDuckGo browser menu.
- Choose Settings > VPN.
- Select Install and follow the prompts.
A connection to a distant VPN server can be slower because your traffic travels farther. See DuckDuckGo’s VPN setup guide for its current instructions.
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Privacy features address particular ways information can be collected; they do not make a user invisible online. DuckDuckGo says its search does not track searches, while its browser features are designed to reduce tracking on websites. Neither statement establishes that every site, network, service, or other party is unable to observe activity.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
DuckDuckGo’s browser page says hidden trackers appear on “85% of popular websites.” That is a DuckDuckGo figure; the page material does not identify an underlying study or independent verification, so treat it as the company’s claim rather than a third-party measurement.
How to decide whether the free setup is enough
- You only want a different search engine: Use DuckDuckGo Search or make it your default. You do not need the browser to search with DuckDuckGo.
- You want protections on other sites: Use the DuckDuckGo browser or a supported extension, and check which features work on your operating system.
- You want email aliases: Set up Email Protection to forward messages to your existing account.
- You want DuckDuckGo’s VPN or other subscription services: Review the paid plan details and regional availability before subscribing.
For a meaningful comparison with another privacy setup, look separately at search tracking, browser protections beyond the search page, platform support, and which features are free or paid. “Private” is not a single measure.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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