Finding a good VPN can feel like looking for a needle in a haystack. With so many options out there, it’s hard to know which service will actually protect your privacy while giving you the speed and features you need. The best VPN services in 2025 offer strong encryption, no-logs policies, and reliable connections without slowing down your internet.
Best VPN Services to Keep You Protected Online in 2025
| VPN Service | Key Features | Server Locations | Speed Impact | Price Range (per month) | Notable Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | 7,800+ servers, strong encryption, no-logs policy | 125 countries | Less than 5% impact | $3 – $12 | Excellent security, large server network, fast speeds |
| ExpressVPN | High-speed servers, strong privacy features | 94 countries | Minimal speed loss | $8 – $13 | User-friendly apps, reliable streaming, strong encryption |
| Surfshark | Unlimited devices, CleanWeb ad blocker | 100+ countries | Low speed impact | $2 – $12 | Great value, strong privacy, unlimited device support |
| CyberGhost | User-friendly, streaming optimized servers | 90+ countries | Moderate speed impact | $3 – $13 | Good for beginners, strong unblocking capabilities |
| Private Internet Access (PIA) | Large server network, customizable security | 80+ countries | Low to moderate | $3 – $12 | Strong privacy, good for torrenting |
This table summarizes the best VPN services in 2025 based on speed, security, server coverage, and value to keep you protected online.
VPNs help keep your online activities private by hiding your IP address and encrypting your data. This is helpful when using public Wi-Fi, accessing region-locked content, or just keeping your browsing habits away from prying eyes. Top providers like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark have made names for themselves by balancing security features with user-friendly apps.
1. NordVPN: Fast and secure
NordVPN stands out as a top choice for people who want both speed and security online. This VPN service encrypts your traffic and hides your IP address, making your internet browsing private.
When you use NordVPN, you don’t have to sacrifice speed for safety. Many users find it offers some of the best VPN speeds available in 2025, which means you can stream videos and download files quickly.
The app is easy to use on many devices. You can get it for your Android phones and tablets, as well as Apple devices. Setting it up takes just a few minutes.
People who stream shows and movies often pick NordVPN. It works well with popular streaming services and helps users access content from different countries. According to reviews, it’s excellent for streaming fans.
If you travel often, NordVPN can be helpful. It lets you connect to public Wi-Fi safely, protecting your personal information from hackers. This is especially important when using airport or hotel networks.
NordVPN offers special features that many other VPNs don’t have. These tools give extra layers of protection for people who want maximum privacy online.
The company has a strict no-logs policy. This means they don’t keep records of what websites you visit or what you download. Your online activities stay private.
You can use NordVPN on multiple devices at once with one account. This makes it a good value if you want to protect your phone, computer, and tablet all at the same time.
Customer support is available 24/7 if you run into any problems. They offer help through live chat and email, making it easy to get assistance when needed.
Downloading the app is straightforward from their website. They provide clear instructions for installation on different devices.
2. ExpressVPN: Reliable performance
ExpressVPN stands out for its stable and dependable service. Users can count on it to work consistently, which isn’t always true for other VPN providers.
The service maintains excellent speed across most locations and protocols. While not always the fastest option, its performance rarely drops to unusable levels, making it perfect for streaming, gaming, and browsing.
Server reliability is another strong point. ExpressVPN operates servers in numerous countries, giving users plenty of connection options. These servers stay up and running with minimal downtime.
Many tech reviewers rank ExpressVPN as the world’s best VPN, partly due to this consistency. The service delivers what it promises without the frequent issues that plague cheaper alternatives.
Security features work reliably too. The encryption stays active without disconnecting, and the kill switch triggers properly when needed. This reliability matters when protecting sensitive information.
Connection times are quick, with minimal waiting to get protected. This matters for people who turn their VPN on and off throughout the day.
Customer feedback often mentions ExpressVPN’s reliable security. Users appreciate not having to worry about their protection suddenly failing during important tasks.
The app interface stays consistent across devices. Whether on phones, computers, or tablets, users get the same dependable experience. This makes switching between devices simple.
Updates roll out smoothly without breaking functionality. The company tests changes thoroughly before releasing them to customers.
Even in countries with internet restrictions, ExpressVPN typically finds a way through. This reliability for travelers and those in regions with censorship adds significant value.
For streaming fans, ExpressVPN reliably unblocks popular services like Netflix and Hulu. Many VPNs struggle to maintain this capability as streaming services fight back.
The consistent performance extends to torrenting and other high-bandwidth activities. Speeds remain stable even during extended download sessions.
3. Proton VPN: Free plan, no data limit
Proton VPN stands out in the crowded VPN market with its exceptional free plan. Unlike most free VPNs that restrict your usage with data caps, Proton VPN offers unlimited bandwidth with no data limits.
Users don’t need to worry about running out of data in the middle of streaming or browsing. The free plan lets you connect to servers in three countries, which is enough for basic privacy needs.
Security remains strong even on the free tier. Proton VPN doesn’t compromise on encryption standards and maintains a strict no-logs policy, meaning your online activities aren’t tracked or stored.
The service is backed by strict Swiss privacy laws, giving users an extra layer of protection. Switzerland’s strong privacy regulations help ensure your data stays private.
Another refreshing aspect is the absence of ads. Many free VPN services bombard users with advertisements, but Proton VPN keeps the experience clean and ad-free.
The company offers open-source apps for all devices, including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. This transparency allows security experts to verify the software’s safety.
Speed is adequate for everyday browsing, though not optimized for heavy streaming or gaming. Free users connect to less crowded servers than paid subscribers.
So what’s the catch? According to Reddit discussions, there isn’t one. Proton VPN’s free plan is truly designed for security with no gimmicks. The company uses the free tier to introduce users to their service.
The free plan limits users to one connection at a time. For families or users with multiple devices, this might be restrictive.
It’s worth noting that while the free plan is excellent, the paid plans offer additional features like access to more server locations, faster speeds, and P2P support for torrenting.
4. Surfshark: Budget-friendly option
Surfshark stands out in the VPN market as a truly affordable option without cutting corners on features. Starting at just $2.19 per month, it ranks among the cheapest VPNs available today while still delivering premium performance.
Despite its low price, Surfshark doesn’t compromise on quality. It’s actually rated as the #2 VPN provider overall by some tech reviewers, proving that budget-friendly doesn’t mean basic or limited.
The service offers impressive value for money. Users get unlimited device connections with a single subscription – a rare feature even among pricier competitors. This means you can protect all your family’s phones, tablets, and computers with just one account.
Surfshark comes packed with essential security features that keep your online activities private. Their no-logs policy ensures your browsing history stays confidential, giving peace of mind when connecting to public WiFi networks.
When comparing popular providers, NordVPN and Surfshark both rank among the best services. However, Surfshark typically wins on price while maintaining similar security standards.
Real users often praise Surfshark’s balance of cost and performance. On Reddit, one reviewer called it “Affordable AF” and highlighted its excellent “price-to-feature ratio” as a standout quality.
The user-friendly apps work across Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and other platforms. Even tech beginners find them easy to navigate and use, with one-click connections to secure servers worldwide.
It’s worth noting that Surfshark’s pricing has changed recently. According to CNET, it’s no longer as budget-friendly as it once was, though it remains more affordable than many competitors.
Another Reddit user shared their positive experience with Surfshark, confirming it “offers good value for money” while praising its security features and unlimited device policy.
5. CyberGhost: Great for streaming
CyberGhost VPN stands out as a solid choice for streaming enthusiasts. It offers specialized servers that are optimized for various streaming platforms, making it easier to access your favorite content.
The service is excellent for streaming and works well for casual users who want to unblock geo-restricted content. Their dedicated streaming servers help users access popular platforms without the frustrating buffering that some VPNs cause.
For the best streaming experience, CyberGhost recommends using the WireGuard® VPN protocol. This lightweight protocol offers an ideal mix of speed and security, which is exactly what you need when streaming high-definition content.
While not perfect, CyberGhost is certainly a strong contender in the VPN market. Users appreciate its straightforward interface and reliable performance when accessing streaming services.
The service boasts blazing fast servers that help prevent the annoying lag and buffering issues that can ruin your viewing experience. This speed advantage makes it particularly useful for HD and 4K streaming.
CyberGhost works across all major devices and operating systems. Whether you use Windows, iOS, Mac, Android, or Linux, you can enjoy protected streaming on your preferred device.
For budget-conscious users, CyberGhost offers good value. It’s one of the top VPN services that balances cost with quality features, especially for those primarily interested in streaming capabilities.
The app provides an intuitive user experience with specialized filtering options. These filters help you quickly find servers optimized for specific streaming platforms, saving you time and frustration.
CyberGhost’s global server network gives users plenty of options to bypass geo-restrictions. This wide coverage ensures you can access content from various regions around the world.
Connection stability is another strength of CyberGhost. Nothing ruins streaming more than sudden disconnections, and CyberGhost maintains reliable connections even during longer viewing sessions.
6. IPVanish: Solid privacy features
IPVanish offers strong privacy features that make it a good choice for users concerned about their online security. The VPN uses reliable security features including robust encryption protocols to keep your data safe.
A standout feature is the unlimited simultaneous connections that IPVanish provides. This means you can protect all your devices at once without paying extra. Many users find this helpful for families or people with multiple devices.
The service has a transparent privacy policy which is important when choosing a VPN. They clearly explain how they handle your data and what information they collect.
IPVanish has a good mix of server locations around the world. This geographic diversity helps users find faster connections and access content from different regions.
Speed is another area where IPVanish performs well. Tests show the service has a small impact on connection speeds, meaning you can browse, stream, and download without major slowdowns.
For those worried about connection drops, IPVanish includes a dependable kill switch. This feature automatically cuts your internet if the VPN connection fails, preventing accidental data exposure.
IPVanish is particularly good for beginners or casual users looking for basic online privacy. The interface is user-friendly and doesn’t overwhelm with technical options.
The service offers protection for your data, devices, and connections, covering the essential security needs of most users. This makes it a practical choice for everyday browsing and streaming.
Price-wise, IPVanish offers competitive rates with annual plans around $39.96 per year. This makes it an affordable option compared to some premium VPN services.
While IPVanish works well for most users, those with critical privacy needs might want to explore other options. Some specialized VPNs offer advanced features for high-risk situations.
7. Hotspot Shield: Fast connections
Hotspot Shield has earned a reputation for its speed. The VPN was once named the fastest VPN in 2020 by PCMag, though its ranking has changed in recent years.
What makes Hotspot Shield stand out is its connection speed. The company itself promotes this feature, calling their product the “world’s fastest VPN” as verified by Ookla’s Speedtest.
The network includes over 1800 VPN servers spread across more than 80 countries. This wide distribution helps users find nearby servers for better speeds.
Gamers and streamers often pick Hotspot Shield because fast connections reduce lag and buffering. Quick loading times make watching shows or playing online games much smoother.
The VPN’s speed makes it a good choice for downloading large files too. Users can transfer data quickly while still keeping their connection private.
Hotspot Shield uses its own protocol called Hydra. This technology helps balance security and speed, which many other VPNs struggle with.
For Windows users, the VPN client is simple to use and connects quickly. The app works well on other platforms too, including Mac, iOS, and Android devices.
Despite its strengths, Hotspot Shield’s speed has been inconsistent in recent testing. PCMag noted that the VPN dropped to the bottom of speed rankings in 2024 after previously holding top positions.
The VPN is also known for its user-friendly interface, making it easy for beginners to start protecting their online activity without technical knowledge.
For streaming fans, Hotspot Shield performs well at unblocking popular services. This feature combined with its speed makes watching international content simple and smooth.
Remember that actual connection speeds depend on your original internet connection. Even the fastest VPN can’t make your base internet faster than what your provider offers.
8. FastestVPN: Strong privacy protection
FastestVPN offers solid security features that help keep your online activities private. The service uses military-grade 256-Bit AES encryption to protect your data from prying eyes.
When it comes to connection protocols, FastestVPN provides OpenVPN, which is known for its reliability. This protocol works well with the 256-bit encryption, making it one of the top options for security and privacy.
The service includes standard VPN features like a kill switch that stops your internet if the VPN connection drops. This prevents your real IP address from being exposed accidentally.
FastestVPN has a strict no-logs policy. This means they don’t track or store information about what you do online while connected to their service.
For budget-conscious users, FastestVPN stands out as a good choice. It provides basic security and privacy features without costing too much, making it accessible for people who want protection without spending a lot.
The service works well for common online activities like streaming and downloading. Their security setup helps protect you when using public WiFi networks where hackers might try to steal your information.
FastestVPN supports multiple devices, so you can protect your phone, computer, and tablet with a single subscription. This adds value for families or people who use several devices.
While not as well-known as some competitors, FastestVPN focuses on delivering high-end security alongside user-friendly applications. The easy-to-use apps make it simple for beginners to stay protected online.
For torrenting and P2P activities, FastestVPN offers dedicated servers that provide the security needed for these activities. This helps keep your downloading habits private from your internet provider.
9. Turbo VPN: Free and stable connection
Turbo VPN offers a completely free VPN service with unlimited access to their proxy servers. Users don’t need to worry about subscription fees while still getting solid protection for their online activities.
This VPN provides fast connection speeds and stable servers that rarely drop. The reliable connection makes it good for streaming and browsing without constant interruptions.
Turbo VPN is available across multiple platforms. You can download it on Android, iOS, and as a Chrome extension.
The app features a simple interface that makes it easy to use. Even people who aren’t tech-savvy can connect with just one tap, which explains its popularity among first-time VPN users.
Turbo VPN helps users bypass geo-restrictions to access blocked content. This feature works well for accessing social media platforms or streaming services that might be unavailable in certain regions.
The service boasts over 21,000 servers across different locations. This wide network helps spread user traffic and maintain good speeds even during peak hours.
For users who prefer an even lighter app, there’s Turbo VPN Lite. This version uses less storage space while still providing the core VPN functions.
Security features include encryption to protect user data when connected to public WiFi. This protection helps prevent hackers from accessing personal information when browsing on unsecured networks.
The free version does show ads to support the service. While sometimes annoying, these ads allow the company to maintain their free service model.
Battery consumption is relatively low compared to other VPN apps. The developers have optimized the app to use minimal resources while running in the background.
For mobile users, Turbo VPN offers the convenience of protecting their connection on the go. The app can automatically connect when joining unknown networks to ensure continuous protection.
10. Hide.me: Privacy-focused VPN
Hide.me is a VPN service that puts privacy at the center of its operations. The company offers strong protection features that keep users safe while browsing online.
One standout aspect of Hide.me is its strict zero log policy, meaning they don’t track or store your online activities. This is crucial for anyone who values their privacy online.
Hide.me has been audited by independent security analysts who have certified their privacy claims. This external verification gives users more confidence in the service’s security promises.
The VPN provides excellent connection speeds alongside good streaming support. Users can access geo-restricted content without frustrating buffering or quality issues.
Their StealthGuard feature deserves special mention. It prevents accidental IP address leaks by limiting internet traffic to the VPN connection only. If the VPN drops, your connection stops too, keeping your real location hidden.
Hide.me offers both free and paid plans. Their free option is considered one of the best free VPN plans available, though it comes with some limitations compared to the premium version.
The service works across multiple devices and platforms. Whether you use Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, or other systems, Hide.me has compatible apps that are easy to set up.
For tech-savvy users, Hide.me provides many customizable features. You can fine-tune your connection settings to match your specific privacy needs.
The company operates from Malaysia, which is outside the jurisdiction of major surveillance alliances. This location choice further supports their privacy-focused approach.
Hide.me offers privacy protection and encryption that creates a truly private browsing experience no matter where you connect from. Their global server network gives users plenty of connection options.
Customer support is available 24/7 through various channels. This is helpful when users encounter technical issues or have questions about the service.
Understanding VPNs
A VPN creates a secure connection between your device and the internet, hiding your online activity from prying eyes. This technology helps protect your data and gives you more freedom online.
How VPNs Work
VPNs function by creating an encrypted tunnel for your internet traffic. When you connect to a virtual private network, your device establishes a secure connection with a remote server operated by the VPN provider.
Your internet traffic travels through this encrypted tunnel before reaching the internet. This process masks your real IP address and replaces it with the IP address of the VPN server.
Think of it like sending mail through a trusted friend in another city – the final destination sees the package coming from your friend’s address, not yours. This setup prevents your internet service provider (ISP), government agencies, and hackers from viewing your online activities.
The encryption used by VPNs scrambles your data, making it unreadable to anyone who might intercept it. This is especially important when using public Wi-Fi networks, which are often targeted by cybercriminals.
Benefits of Using a VPN
Privacy Protection: VPNs shield your browsing history from your ISP and websites. This stops companies from collecting and selling your data.
Enhanced Security: Public Wi-Fi networks at coffee shops and airports pose serious risks. VPNs encrypt your connection, protecting your passwords and personal information from hackers.
Bypass Geo-restrictions: Many streaming services and websites limit access based on location. VPNs let you connect to servers in different countries to access content not available in your region.
Safe File Sharing: For those who use P2P networks, VPNs provide anonymity and security when sharing files.
Protection Against Price Discrimination: Some online retailers show different prices based on your location. Using a VPN can help you find better deals by checking prices from various regions.
Common VPN Protocols
VPN protocols are the rules and methods that determine how your data travels between your device and the VPN server. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses.
OpenVPN stands out as the most respected open-source protocol. It offers an excellent balance of speed and security. The protocol uses certificates, keys, and usernames for authentication, making it highly secure.
WireGuard is a newer protocol gaining popularity for its simplicity and speed. With fewer lines of code than other protocols, it’s easier to audit for security issues and runs faster on most devices.
IKEv2/IPsec excels at reconnecting when your internet drops. This makes it perfect for mobile devices that switch between Wi-Fi and cellular data.
L2TP/IPsec provides good security but may be slower than other options. It combines the tunneling of L2TP with the encryption of IPsec for a double-layer approach to protection.
Security and Privacy
When choosing a VPN service, security and privacy features determine how well your data stays protected. Strong encryption keeps your information safe while understanding potential risks helps you make informed decisions.
Encryption Standards
Most top VPNs use AES-256 bit encryption, which is considered military-grade. This encryption standard is virtually impossible to crack with current technology.
VPN protocols also matter for your security. Modern options include:
- WireGuard: Newer, faster protocol with strong security
- OpenVPN: Open-source and highly secure, though sometimes slower
- IKEv2: Good for mobile connections with frequent network switching
Privacy-focused providers implement these protocols alongside strict no-logs policies. This means they don’t track or store your online activities. NordVPN and ExpressVPN consistently rank high for their strong encryption and security practices.
Many quality VPNs also offer bonus security features like double VPN connections, kill switches, and DNS leak protection to keep your data safe.
Potential Risks of Using VPNs
Not all VPNs provide equal protection. Free VPNs often pose the greatest risk, as many collect and sell user data to advertisers. This defeats the purpose of using a VPN for privacy.
Some VPNs claim “no logs” policies but still collect certain information. Reading privacy policies carefully helps you avoid services that track more than necessary. Look for providers that have undergone independent security audits to verify their claims.
VPN jurisdiction matters too. Services based in countries with strict data retention laws might be forced to hand over user information. VPNs from privacy-friendly locations like Panama or the British Virgin Islands typically offer better protection.
Even good VPNs can’t protect you from all online threats. They won’t stop you from downloading malware or visiting phishing sites. For complete protection, pair your VPN with good security habits and additional tools like antivirus software.
Choosing the Right VPN
Selecting a VPN requires careful consideration of several factors to ensure it meets your specific needs and provides adequate protection. The right choice depends on your usage patterns and the devices you own.
Key Features to Consider
When shopping for a VPN, privacy concerns should top your list. Look for services with strict no-logs policies, which means they don’t track or store your online activities.
Server locations matter too. More servers in diverse countries give you better options for accessing geo-restricted content. For example, if you want to watch UK shows, you’ll need UK-based servers.
Speed is crucial for streaming and gaming. Some VPNs like ProtonVPN and Mullvad consistently deliver faster connections than others.
Consider these important factors:
- Security protocols: OpenVPN and WireGuard offer the best balance of security and speed
- Kill switch: Protects your data if the VPN connection drops
- Price: Monthly plans range from $2-$12, with discounts for longer commitments
- Free trial or money-back guarantee: Test before fully committing
VPN Compatibility with Devices
A good VPN should work across all your devices. Most top VPN services support Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android, but coverage for Linux, smart TVs, and routers varies widely.
Check the number of simultaneous connections allowed. Some services like Surfshark offer unlimited devices, while others limit you to 5-10 connections.
Router compatibility is worth considering. Installing a VPN directly on your router protects all connected devices at once, including those that don’t normally support VPN apps like game consoles and smart home gadgets.
Browser extensions provide a lightweight alternative for casual browsing, but they only protect traffic from that specific browser. For complete protection, you’ll need the full VPN application installed on your device.
Frequently Asked Questions
VPNs offer different features and capabilities that may match your specific needs. Finding the right service depends on understanding what each provider offers and how it fits your usage patterns.
What features should I look for in a top-rated VPN service?
A reliable VPN should include strong encryption protocols like OpenVPN or WireGuard to protect your data.
Look for a strict no-logs policy to ensure your online activities aren’t being recorded. Many top services like NordVPN undergo independent audits to verify their privacy claims.
Kill switch functionality is crucial as it cuts your internet if the VPN connection drops. This prevents accidental data exposure.
Consider the number and location of servers available. More servers generally mean better performance and more options to bypass geo-restrictions.
How do I determine which VPN is the most suitable for my smartphone?
Check if the VPN offers dedicated mobile apps with user-friendly interfaces. Services like ExpressVPN provide intuitive apps for iOS and Android.
Battery consumption matters on mobile devices. Some VPNs are more efficient than others, so read user reviews about battery performance.
Look for split tunneling features that let you choose which apps use the VPN connection. This saves bandwidth and battery life.
Connection stability is essential for smartphones that frequently switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data.
Are there any reliable free VPN services that offer strong privacy features?
Proton VPN offers a free plan with no data limits and solid security features. Unlike many free services, they don’t sell user data.
Free VPNs typically have limitations like fewer server options, slower speeds, or data caps. Always check their privacy policy before using them.
Be cautious of completely free services with no paid tiers. Many of these services monetize by collecting and selling user data or showing ads.
Can using a VPN improve my overall online security?
VPNs encrypt your internet traffic, making it difficult for hackers to intercept your data on public Wi-Fi networks. This encryption acts as a protective tunnel for your online activities.
They hide your IP address, adding a layer of anonymity when browsing. This helps prevent websites from tracking your location and online behavior.
VPNs can’t replace antivirus software or protect against all online threats. They work best as part of a comprehensive security approach that includes good password practices and up-to-date software.
What makes a VPN provider stand out among the top 10 in the market?
Consistent performance across different servers and times of day sets premium providers apart. NordVPN and ExpressVPN are known for their reliable connections.
Customer support quality is crucial. The best services offer 24/7 live chat support to help with setup or troubleshooting issues.
Regular updates and new features show a commitment to improvement. Top providers continuously enhance their security measures and user experience.
Independent security audits demonstrate transparency. When companies like CyberGhost allow third-party verification, it builds trust.
How do I choose the best VPN for streaming my favorite shows?
Check which streaming platforms the VPN can reliably access. Not all VPNs can unblock Netflix, Disney+, or other major services consistently.
Server speed is critical for streaming HD content without buffering. Look for VPNs that have optimized streaming servers.
The number of country locations matters if you want to access content from specific regions. More locations give you access to more international libraries.
Some VPNs like Surfshark offer specialized streaming features such as SmartDNS, which helps access streaming content on devices that don’t support VPN apps.
