After nearly a decade of testing VPNs, one thing has remained clear: Not all VPNs are created equal. Some excel in unblocking and streaming, while others prioritize security and privacy. These VPNs cater to various budgets, including some free options.
The challenge is finding the best VPN for your specific needs. To assist in this, I've rigorously tested dozens of VPNs, evaluating their performance in server speeds, streaming capabilities, DNS leak protection, privacy policies, and customer support responsiveness. This thorough approach ensures a comprehensive and accurate assessment of the top VPN services for 2025.
TL;DR: These Are the Best VPN Services:
Proton VPN
0See it at Proton VPN
0See it at ExpressVPN
0See it at NordVPN
0See it at Surfshark
0See it at IPVanish
0See it at CyberGhost
Mullvad
0See it at Mullvad
Still unsure about what a VPN is or how it works? A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, encrypts your internet connection and allows you to change your virtual location. By routing your traffic through a secure, encrypted tunnel to a server of your choice, a VPN protects you from hackers and enables you to bypass geographic content restrictions.
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
PROS
One of the largest server networks
Privacy-friendly with a no-logs policy
CONS
MacOS app could do with a facelift
Proton VPN excels across the board. It offers a vast network of over 12,000 servers in 117 countries, making it easy to find a fast server and bypass geo-blocking effectively. During testing, it performed admirably with Netflix. While the MacOS app could use a visual update, the Windows, Android, and iOS apps are user-friendly and have been recently revamped. Proton VPN's commitment to privacy is underscored by its no-logs policy and the option to pay anonymously in cash.
ExpressVPN
Best VPN for Streaming
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
PROS
Highly consistent unblocker
Includes a password manager
CONS
Fairly expensive subscription prices
ExpressVPN stands out as the best VPN for streaming. It's user-friendly, fast, and excels at unblocking streaming services. With servers in 105 countries, it provides reliable connections without server load issues. In my tests, it consistently unblocked popular streaming platforms without any DNS or IP leaks. While it might not have as many features as some competitors, it offers a password manager and can be set up on a router for unlimited device connections.
NordVPN
Best VPN for Gaming
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
PROS
Among the fastest VPNs
Vast array of features
CONS
App’s server map feels clumsy
NordVPN is renowned for its performance and feature set. With over 7,000 servers in 118 countries, it offers excellent coverage and speed, making it ideal for gaming. Its proprietary NordLynx protocol ensures fast connections, and it consistently unblocks U.S. Netflix and Peacock. NordVPN regularly updates its service, adding features like Threat Protection Pro, which blocks ads and malicious websites, along with a password manager and data breach scanner.
Surfshark
Best VPN for Extra Features
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
PROS
Servers in two dozen US cities
Many extras even on the lowest tier
CONS
Expensive single-month plans
Surfshark's unlimited simultaneous connections make it perfect for securing multiple devices. With over 3,000 servers in 100 countries, it offers robust performance for streaming and gaming. It features strong security measures including 256-bit AES and ChaCha20 encryption, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and a kill switch. Surfshark's additional features like Alternative ID and antivirus enhance its value, though its monthly plans are pricier.
IPVanish
Best VPN for Unlimited Devices
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
PROS
Hugely improved speeds
Various new features
CONS
No Smart DNS or browser extensions
IPVanish is ideal for households with many devices, offering unlimited simultaneous connections. Its network of 2,400 servers, with a focus on North America, provides reliable streaming and gaming performance. The service includes Threat Protection to block ads and malicious sites, and the Advanced tier adds a secure browser and cloud storage. However, it lacks Smart DNS and browser extensions.
Disclosure: IPVanish is owned by Ziff Davis, IGN's parent company.
CyberGhost
Best VPN with a Free Trial
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
PROS
Large server network
Generous money-back guarantee
CONS
Still lacks an Apple TV app
CyberGhost stands out for its accessibility and generous trial options. With servers in 100 countries, it offers a robust network for streaming and general use. Its 45-day money-back guarantee and 24-hour free trial for Windows and MacOS, without requiring a credit card, make it an attractive choice. However, it lacks advanced features like Double VPN servers and an Apple TV app.
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
PROS
Flat monthly rate
Anonymous signup
CONS
No live chat support
Mullvad prioritizes privacy above all else. While it may not be the best for streaming due to its limited unblocking capabilities and fewer servers, it excels in security and anonymity. Its no-logs policy and anonymous signup process, along with payment options like cash and Monero, make it a top choice for privacy-conscious users. However, it lacks live chat support and advanced features.
How We Picked the Best VPN Services
Selecting the best VPNs from a crowded market involves a meticulous process:
Fast, consistent connections: A VPN should not significantly slow your connection. I tested each VPN's speeds across multiple server locations at various times to ensure reliability. Streaming and gaming tests confirmed performance during high-bandwidth tasks.
Strong unblocking ability: Quality VPNs have servers worldwide, facilitating faster connections and unblocking geo-restricted content. I tested each VPN's ability to access region-locked streaming platforms.
Keeps data secure: A serious VPN service must use strong encryption like 256-bit AES or ChaCha20. I conducted DNS and IP leak tests to ensure no data escapes the VPN tunnel.
Respects your privacy: Many VPNs compromise user privacy by logging data. I reviewed each VPN's privacy policy 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:
- Sign up with the best VPN service that suits your needs. Proton VPN is our top pick.
- Download and install the VPN on your devices. All recommended VPNs allow at least seven simultaneous connections.
- Open the VPN app and log in if prompted. Connect to a server in your desired location, such as the U.S. for a U.S. IP address.
- Your connection is now secure, with your real IP address hidden and your traffic encrypted.
- If you encounter unblocking issues, clear your browser's cache and cookies to help services forget your previous IP address and location.
VPN FAQs
Are VPNs legal to use?
Yes, VPNs are legal in most countries. However, there are exceptions like China and Russia where their use is regulated. Always check local laws to ensure compliance.
Will a VPN slow my internet speed?
A VPN may slightly slow your internet speed due to encryption and rerouting. However, the best VPNs use fast protocols and do not throttle bandwidth, minimizing any noticeable impact, even during streaming.
Can I use a VPN to access Netflix?
Netflix blocks VPNs to enforce copyright and licensing agreements. However, some VPNs can bypass these blocks, and several of our recommended VPNs successfully unblock Netflix.
Why not just use a free VPN instead?
Free VPNs often have limited servers and locations, with data and speed caps that make them unsuitable for anything beyond basic browsing. There's also a risk they may log and sell your data for profit.
