Having spent nearly a decade testing VPNs, one thing has remained crystal clear: Not all VPNs are created equal. Some excel in powerful unblocking and seamless streaming, while others prioritize robust security and privacy. These VPNs cater to various budgets, with some options even being free.

Finding the best VPN for your specific needs can be challenging. To simplify this, I've rigorously tested dozens of VPNs across multiple criteria, including server speeds, streaming service access, DNS leak checks, privacy policies, and customer support responsiveness. This thorough approach provides a comprehensive and accurate evaluation of the top VPN services 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

Still not sure exactly what a VPN is or how it works? A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, encrypts your internet connection and masks your virtual location. By routing your traffic through a secure, encrypted tunnel to a server in your chosen location, it not only protects you from hackers and snoopers 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

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 in every aspect. It's fast, boasts a vast server network, reliably unblocks content, and maintains top-notch security and privacy. With over 12,000 servers across 117 countries, it's easy to find a fast server and bypass geo-blocking, including seamless access to Netflix. While the MacOS app could use an update, the Windows, Android, and iOS apps are user-friendly and recently enhanced. Proton VPN's commitment to privacy is underscored by its true 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

PROS

• Highly consistent unblocker
• Includes a password manager

CONS

• Fairly expensive subscription prices

ExpressVPN is an excellent all-rounder, perfect for streaming. It offers fast speeds and powerful unblocking capabilities, despite having fewer servers than Proton VPN and NordVPN. Its reliability in accessing popular streaming services is unmatched. Security features include 256-bit AES encryption and a reliable kill switch. While it may lack some of Surfshark's extras, it offers a password manager and supports up to 10 devices when set up with a router.

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

PROS

• Among the fastest VPNs
• Vast array of features

CONS

• App’s server map feels clumsy

NordVPN is renowned for its speed and extensive feature set. With over 7,000 servers in 118 countries, it's ideal for gaming and streaming, particularly in the U.S. Its NordLynx protocol ensures high speeds, making it the best VPN for gaming. Regular updates bring new features, including Threat Protection Pro for ad and tracker blocking, a password manager, and a data breach scanner. The server map in the app might not appeal to everyone, but overall, it remains user-friendly.

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

PROS

• Servers in two dozen US cities
• Many extras even on the lowest tier

CONS

• Expensive single-month plans

Surfshark stands out with its unlimited device connections, making it perfect for households with multiple devices. It offers over 3,000 servers in 100 countries, with strong performance in streaming and gaming. Security features include 256-bit AES and ChaCha20 encryption, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and a kill switch. Additional features like Alternative ID and antivirus enhance its value, though single-month plans are pricey.

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

PROS

• Hugely improved speeds
• Various new features

CONS

• No Smart DNS or browser extensions

IPVanish offers unlimited simultaneous connections, making it ideal for sharing with family or friends. Its server network has grown to over 2,400 servers, with a strong presence in North America, ensuring reliable streaming and gaming performance. Both subscription tiers include Threat Protection, with the Advanced tier offering additional features like 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.

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

PROS

• Large server network
• Generous money-back guarantee

CONS

• Still lacks an Apple TV app

CyberGhost is user-friendly and accessible, with apps for desktop, mobile, and Amazon Fire TV, plus Chrome browser extensions. Its server network spans 100 countries, and the desktop apps display server load for easy selection. A 45-day money-back guarantee and a 24-hour free trial for Windows and MacOS add to its appeal. However, it lacks advanced features like Double VPN servers and an Apple TV app.

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

PROS

• Flat monthly rate
• Anonymous signup

CONS

• No live chat support

Mullvad prioritizes privacy above all else. While it uses the fast WireGuard protocol, it's not recommended for streaming due to limited unblocking capabilities. Its focus is on security and privacy, with a strict no-logs policy. Mullvad allows anonymous signup without an email address, using a random account number instead. It offers a flat monthly rate and accepts cash and Monero, but lacks live chat support and some features.

How We Picked the Best VPN Services

Selecting the top VPNs from the many available options involves focusing on key criteria:

Fast, consistent connections: A VPN should not significantly slow your connection. I tested each VPN's speed across three server locations at different times over several days, ensuring reliable averages. I also streamed content and played games to verify performance during high-bandwidth tasks.

Strong unblocking ability: Quality VPNs have servers in numerous countries, facilitating faster connections and unblocking geo-restricted content. I tested each VPN's ability to access region-locked streaming platforms.

Keeps data secure: A reputable VPN must use strong encryption like 256-bit AES (OpenVPN) or ChaCha20 (WireGuard). I conducted DNS and IP leak tests to ensure no data escapes the VPN tunnel.

Respects your privacy: Many VPNs do not respect user privacy, often logging and selling data. I reviewed each VPN's privacy policy to confirm no identifying logs are kept and prioritized those with independently audited no-logs policies.

How to Use the Best VPN: A Step-by-Step Guide

Setting up and using a VPN is straightforward. Follow these steps to secure your internet connection and bypass geo-blocking:

1. Sign up with the best VPN service that suits your needs. Proton VPN is our top recommendation.
2. Download and install the VPN on your devices. All recommended VPNs support at least seven simultaneous connections.
3. Open the VPN app and log in if prompted. Connect to a server in your desired location, such as a U.S. server for a U.S. IP address.
4. Your connection is now secure. Your real IP address is hidden, and your traffic is encrypted, allowing for more private browsing.
5. If you're having trouble unblocking, clear your browser's cache and cookies to help websites forget your previous IP address and location.

VPN FAQs

Are VPNs legal to use?

VPNs are legal in most countries, with exceptions like China and Russia where their use is regulated. Always check local laws before using a VPN.

Will a VPN slow my internet speed?

A VPN can 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 from our best VPN list are capable of doing so.

Why not just use a free VPN instead?

Free VPNs typically offer limited servers and locations, cap data and speed, and may log and sell your data for profit. They are generally unsuitable for anything beyond basic browsing.