After nearly a decade of testing VPNs, one fact remains unmistakably clear: not all VPNs are created equal. Some excel in unblocking content and providing seamless streaming experiences, while others prioritize robust security and privacy protections. These VPNs cater to various budgets, with some even offering free options.
The challenge lies in pinpointing the perfect VPN for your specific needs. To assist in this quest, I've subjected dozens of VPNs to rigorous testing, evaluating their performance across multiple criteria such as server speed, streaming capabilities, DNS leak prevention, privacy policies, and customer support responsiveness. This comprehensive approach ensures a thorough understanding of the top VPN services available in 2025.
TL;DR: These Are the Best VPN Services:
### Proton VPN
0See it at Proton VPN
### ExpressVPN
0See it at ExpressVPN
### NordVPN
0See it at NordVPN
### Surfshark
0See it at Surfshark
### IPVanish
0See it at IPVanish
### CyberGhost
0See it at CyberGhost
### Mullvad
0See it at Mullvad
Unsure about what a VPN is or how it functions? A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, encrypts your internet connection and masks your virtual location. By connecting to a VPN server, your traffic is routed through a secure, encrypted tunnel to a server of your choice. This not only shields you from hackers and prying eyes but also allows you to bypass geographic content restrictions.
1. Proton VPN
The Best VPN
### Proton VPN
0See it at Proton VPN
Product Specifications:
- Pricing: Starting from $4.49/mo.
- Simultaneous connections: 10
- Servers: 12,000+
- Countries: 117
- Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Android TV, Apple TV
Proton VPN excels across the board. With over 12,000 servers spanning 117 countries, it offers unparalleled access to fast, reliable connections that effortlessly bypass geo-restrictions. Its performance with Netflix was particularly impressive during our tests. While the MacOS app could use a design update, the recently revamped Windows, Android, and iOS apps are both intuitive and user-friendly. Proton VPN's commitment to privacy is underscored by its strict no-logs policy and the option to pay anonymously with cash.
2. ExpressVPN
Best VPN for Streaming
### ExpressVPN
0See it at ExpressVPN
Product Specifications:
- Pricing: Starting from $4.99/mo.
- Simultaneous connections: 8
- Servers: Undisclosed
- Countries: 105
- Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV
ExpressVPN stands out as the premier choice for streaming, offering consistent unblocking and high-speed connections across its 3,000+ servers in 105 countries. It's user-friendly yet powerful, making it ideal for beginners and seasoned users alike. While it may be pricier, its comprehensive security features, including a password manager and reliable kill switch, justify the cost. ExpressVPN's router setup compatibility further enhances its appeal for multi-device households.
3. NordVPN
Best VPN for Gaming
### NordVPN
0See it at NordVPN
Product Specifications:
- Pricing: Starting from $3.09/mo.
- Simultaneous connections: 10
- Servers: 7,000+
- Countries: 118
- Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV
NordVPN boasts one of the largest server networks, with over 7,000 servers in 118 countries, making it an excellent choice for gaming. Its proprietary NordLynx protocol ensures lightning-fast speeds, crucial for maintaining low ping during gameplay. Regular updates and a rich feature set, including Threat Protection Pro, a password manager, and data breach scanner, keep NordVPN at the forefront of VPN technology.
4. Surfshark
Best VPN for Extra Features
### Surfshark
0See it at Surfshark
Product Specifications:
- Pricing: Starting from $1.99/mo.
- Simultaneous connections: Unlimited
- Servers: 3,000+
- Countries: 100
- Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV
Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections, making it perfect for homes with numerous devices. Its extensive server network, including nearly two dozen in the U.S., ensures fast and reliable connections for streaming and gaming. Surfshark's robust security features, including MultiHop servers and an impressive array of extras like email masking and antivirus protection, make it a versatile and value-packed choice.
5. IPVanish
Best VPN for Unlimited Devices
### IPVanish
0See it at IPVanish
Product Specifications:
- Pricing: Starting from $2.19/mo.
- Simultaneous connections: Unlimited
- Servers: 2,400+
- Countries: 100
- Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV
IPVanish's commitment to unlimited simultaneous connections makes it an excellent choice for large households. Its expanding server network, particularly in North America, ensures reliable streaming and gaming experiences. Recent speed improvements have significantly enhanced its performance. While it lacks some features like Smart DNS and browser extensions, its Threat Protection and new features in the Advanced tier provide robust security.
*Disclosure: IPVanish is owned by Ziff Davis, IGN's parent company.*
6. CyberGhost
Best VPN with a Free Trial
### CyberGhost
0See it at CyberGhost
Product Specifications:
- Pricing: Starting from $2.03/mo.
- Simultaneous connections: 7
- Servers: Undisclosed
- Countries: 100
- Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Amazon Fire TV
CyberGhost stands out for its user-friendly apps and extensive server network across 100 countries. Its 45-day money-back guarantee and 24-hour free trial for Windows and MacOS without needing a credit card are particularly appealing. Although it lacks advanced features like Double VPN servers and an Apple TV app, its accessibility and generous trial period make it a top choice for new users.
7. Mullvad
Best VPN for Anonymity
### Mullvad
0See it at Mullvad
Product Specifications:
- Pricing: €5/mo. (~$5.65)
- Simultaneous connections: 5
- Servers: 700+
- Countries: 44
- Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux
Mullvad prioritizes privacy above all else, offering anonymous signup and a strict no-logs policy. While it may not be the best for streaming due to limited unblocking capabilities, its focus on security and privacy is unparalleled. The flat monthly rate and acceptance of cash and Monero payments further enhance its appeal for those seeking utmost anonymity.
How We Picked the Best VPN Services
Selecting the top VPN services from the plethora of options is made easier by focusing on key criteria:
- Fast, consistent connections: A VPN should not significantly slow your internet. We tested each VPN's speed across multiple servers and times, ensuring reliable performance even during bandwidth-intensive activities like streaming and gaming.
- Strong unblocking ability: Quality VPNs have servers worldwide, facilitating fast connections and unblocking geo-restricted content. We tested each VPN against major streaming platforms to evaluate their unblocking prowess.
- Keeps data secure: Robust encryption (256-bit AES for OpenVPN, ChaCha20 for WireGuard) is essential. We conducted DNS and IP leak tests to confirm data security.
- Respects your privacy: We scrutinized each VPN's privacy policy for any logging practices and prioritized those with independently audited no-logs policies.
How to Use the Best VPN: A Step-by-Step Guide
Getting started with a VPN is straightforward:
- Choose and sign up for the VPN service that best suits your needs. Proton VPN is our top recommendation.
- Download and install the VPN on your devices. All recommended VPNs allow at least seven simultaneous connections.
- Open the VPN app, log in if necessary, and connect to a server in your desired location.
- Your connection is now secure and your IP address is hidden, enabling private browsing.
- If you encounter issues with unblocking, clear your browser's cache and cookies to refresh your IP address.
VPN FAQs
Are VPNs legal to use?
Yes, VPNs are legal in most countries, though there are exceptions like China and Russia where their use is restricted. Always check local laws before using a VPN.
Will a VPN slow my internet speed?
VPNs can slightly slow your internet due to encryption and rerouting, but top VPNs use fast protocols and do not throttle bandwidth, ensuring minimal impact on your connection, even when streaming.
Can I use a VPN to access Netflix?
Netflix blocks VPNs to enforce copyright and licensing agreements, but some VPNs on our list can bypass these restrictions, allowing access to content from different regions.
Why not just use a free VPN instead?
Free VPNs often have limited servers and locations, cap data and speed, and may compromise your privacy by logging and selling your data. Paid VPNs offer better performance, security, and privacy protection.
