Editor's Choice VPN Awards: Here Are the Best VPNs of 2025

In our first-ever Editor’s Choice VPN Awards, we explore all of our tried and tested VPNs to name the best of the best.
We receive compensation from the products and services mentioned in this story, but the opinions are the author's own. Compensation may impact where offers appear. We have not included all available products or offers. Learn more about how we make money and our editorial policies.

Our editorial team at All About Cookies has been testing, evaluating, and personally using VPNs for years. Together, we looked at all our data and research on over 50 tested VPNs to bring you the best VPNs in the industry. Even if you’re not an active VPN user, you’ve likely heard of virtual private networks and the benefits they have.

NordVPN wins best overall for value, specialty features, user experience, and speed, among others. We also feel that quality VPNs like Surfshark, Proton VPN, and CyberGhost are at the top of their game. Our full list is below, along with what we liked, what we didn’t, and what we think about where each VPN excels.

In this article
The best VPNs of 2025
Best overall: NordVPN
Best value: Surfshark
Best for privacy: Proton VPN
Best for Apple users: CyberGhost
Best for speed: ExpressVPN
Best for sports streaming and betting: Private Internet Access
Best for beginners: PureVPN
Best antivirus VPN: Bitdefender VPN
VPN speed tests
VPN comparison
VPN advanced security and privacy features
How to choose the best VPN
Free vs. paid VPNs: Which is better?
Advice from the experts
FAQs
Bottom line: The best VPNs tested by our experts

The best VPNs of 2025

5.0
2025 Editor’s Choice
Best Overall VPN
VPN
NordVPN
  • #1 rated VPN with over 7,000 ultra-secure, high-speed servers in 118 countries
  • Reliably unblock popular streaming services like Netflix with a single click
  • All-in-one security product with antivirus, ad blocker, password manager, and more
Learn More

4.8
2025 Editor’s Choice
Best Value VPN
VPN
Surfshark
  • Unlimited simultaneous connections for all your devices (Rare perk)
  • Block YouTube ads and malware when connected
  • 3,200+ servers worldwide that are fast and reliable
Learn More

5.0
2025 Editor’s Choice
Best Privacy VPN
VPN
Proton VPN
  • Privacy-focused open-source software that comes with free encrypted email account
  • VPN Accelerator tech improves speeds by up to 400%
  • Stream from anywhere with 11,300+ high-speed servers, plus block ads and trackers
Learn More

4.8
2025 Editor’s Choice
Best Apple VPN
VPN
CyberGhost
  • Access high-speed global servers optimized for your streaming and gaming needs
  • Effortlessly activates when you connect to an unrecognized network for continuous protection
  • Configurable with your router, smart TV, Amazon Fire TV stick, or gaming console
Learn More

4.8
2025 Editor’s Choice
Best VPN for Fast Speeds
VPN
ExpressVPN
  • Consistently fast speeds powered by the proprietary Lightway Turbo protocol
  • Full assortment of safety features, including best-in-class encryption, no log policy, and tracker protection
  • Seamless connection to Aircove router to provide protection for the whole home
Learn More

4.7
2025 Editor’s Choice
Best Sports Streaming & Betting VPN
VPN
Private Internet Access
  • Only VPN to have a server in every U.S. state, perfect for surpassing state restrictions
  • Affordable monthly price plus unlimited simultaneous connections for all your devices
  • Fast connection speeds that seamlessly unblocks Netflix and other streaming services
Learn More

4.7
2025 Editor’s Choice
Best Beginner VPN
VPN
PureVPN
  • Worldwide coverage with 6,000+ servers in 65+ countries
  • Automatically connect to the fastest nearby server for peak speeds
  • Easy-to-use for beginners with detailed tutorials and seamless customization
Learn More

4.7
2025 Editor’s Choice
Best Antivirus VPN
VPN
Bitdefender VPN
  • The best standalone VPN from a trusted antivirus provider
  • Some of the best speeds we've seen from a VPN
  • Connect to 3,000+ servers in 100 countries
Learn More

How we test and rate VPNs

We complete standardized hands-on tests for each VPN we review so we can put their claims to the test. This includes vigorous third-party testing by comparing our internet speed while connected to different servers, checking for DNS leaks, making sure the kill switch actually works, and more. We also make sure we can comfortably access popular streaming sites, like Netflix, and still do our day-to-day work without interruption.

Once we’ve completed the testing, our editorial rating is calculated by taking into account key features you’d expect from a good product. We score each VPN in the following categories and use a weighted average to calculate the final rating out of 5 stars: price, server count, speed, security, and features.

To learn more about how we test, check out our full VPN methodology here.

NordVPN: Best overall

#1 Rated VPN for Privacy and Security
5.0
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On NordVPN's website
2025 Editor’s Choice
Best Overall VPN
VPN
NordVPN
Up to 77% Off + 3 Months Extra
  • #1 rated VPN with over 7,000 ultra-secure, high-speed servers in 118 countries
  • Reliably unblock popular streaming services like Netflix with a single click
  • All-in-one security product with antivirus, ad blocker, password manager, and more

What we liked

Versatility: NordVPN is the best overall due to its versatility, and it’s no surprise that NordVPN typically takes the #1 spot in most roundups. While many VPNs offer a variety of features — such as a double VPN, the ability to unblock streaming, and tools like a dedicated IP — NordVPN does it seamlessly. Nord even offers its Meshnet feature for free to everyone, not just subscribers, which allows anyone to circumvent password bans. NordVPN does the job better than all its competitors.

Security: NordVPN utilizes the protocols OpenVPN, WireGuard (NordLynx), and NordWhisper for the most restrictive environments. All protocols have rules that determine the security of your connection, and Nord has built upon the most lightweight and powerful ones available to bring ultimate security. Additionally, NordVPN boasts an ironclad no-logs policy that undergoes third-party audits annually, which is more frequent than its competitors.

Performance: NordVPN consistently outperforms the others in our quarterly tests. We’ve repeatedly tested over 50 VPNs, and NordVPN is the only provider to receive perfect scores across the board in performance, security, speed, geo-restricted streaming, and leak testing while actually improving our download speeds. Where other VPNs have had glitches or setbacks with features like a kill switch, NordVPN has worked effortlessly every time.

NordVPN dashboard open on VPN tab
NordVPN dashboard for All About Cookies

Also won best for:

  • Streaming: Reliable speeds keep you free from buffering, while the unique Meshnet feature allows you to bypass password-sharing restrictions by connecting to your home IP address from anywhere.
  • Security: The NordLynx and NordWhisper proprietary protocols provide lightweight security and encryption, while advanced security features, including Threat Protection, double VPN, and obfuscated servers, ensure enhanced online privacy.
  • Features: Proprietary features, such as SmartPlay for streaming and Meshnet for LAN, are combined with premium VPN features like Onion over VPN and private DNS, providing NordVPN with a comprehensive suite of valuable tools for all users.

What we didn’t like

Price: NordVPN isn’t as budget-friendly as other top VPN providers, such as Surfshark, CyberGhost, or PIA. NordVPN’s basic plan also doesn’t include advanced security features like NordVPN Threat Protection or NordPass password manager. Comparatively, Surfshark’s Starter plan includes a VPN, Surfshark CleanWeb (an ad and tracker blocker like Threat Protection), and Alt ID (an online identity masker).

Surfshark: Best value

Fast & Unlimited Protection for All Your Devices
4.8
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On Surfshark's website
2025 Editor’s Choice
Best Value VPN
VPN
Surfshark
Grab Birthday VPN Deal From $1.99/mo
  • Unlimited simultaneous connections for all your devices (Rare perk)
  • Block YouTube ads and malware when connected
  • 3,200+ servers worldwide that are fast and reliable

What we liked

Bundles: Surfshark offers more than just a VPN — it’s the best value full cybersecurity suite on the market today. The most basic plan includes CleanWeb, a content blocker that protects you online from invasive ads, cookies, and trackers. As you move up Surfshark’s subscription tiers, you’ll also enjoy real-time antivirus protection, ID and data leak alerts, Surfshark secure browser, and more — all for less than NordVPN’s basic plan. The top tier includes Incogni data removal, and with the 2-year plan, you’re getting a full suite of protection services for less than the base price of VPN providers like Proton VPN and ExpressVPN.

Additionally, we’ve independently tested Surfshark Antivirus, Surfshark CleanWeb, and Incogni, and highly recommend these services.

Unlimited connections: Most VPNs have a limit on the number of devices that can be connected simultaneously, but not Surfshark. It’s one of the few VPNs offering unlimited simultaneous connections while keeping its services at a reasonable price. Surfshark’s broad compatibility makes this feature even more valuable when you realize you can install it on computers and phones, as well as on routers, TVs, and even gaming consoles. While some competitors, such as PIA and IPVanish, offer unlimited connections, Surfshark has consistently outperformed them in our testing.

Unique features: Surfshark's camouflage mode, also known as its obfuscated servers, hides the fact that you’re using a VPN, digitally camouflaging your online activity. Android users can utilize GPS override, a feature that masks your location even from your phone’s internal GPS tracking of your location. The VPN also offers thousands of servers in at least 100 countries, a feature found in competitors with premium prices, while Surfshark’s prices remain viable for any budget.

Surfshark dashboard (connected to fastest location server)
Surfshark dashboard for All About Cookies

Also won best for:

  • Families: Surfshark's unlimited simultaneous connections are particularly useful for large families, but so is the CleanWeb feature and antivirus, which help keep kids from accidentally downloading malware and viruses.

What we didn’t like

High monthly cost: If you want to pay monthly for Surfshark, you’ll run into subscription fees that exceed competitors like NordVPN. To get the best value, you have to sign up for a 2-year commitment. While we’re firm believers in buying the most valuable option, such as a 2-year subscription to Surfshark One+, we don’t think it should be the only option for consumers looking to save a little money.

Proton VPN: Best for privacy

Browse Privately With Fast & Secure Connections
5.0
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On Proton VPN's website
2025 Editor’s Choice
Best Privacy VPN
VPN
Proton VPN
Save Up to 55% on 24-Month Plan
  • Privacy-focused open-source software that comes with free encrypted email account
  • VPN Accelerator tech improves speeds by up to 400%
  • Stream from anywhere with 11,300+ high-speed servers, plus block ads and trackers

What we liked

Privacy-focused: Proton VPN was built with security as its top priority. Headquartered in Switzerland, which has strong data privacy laws, it features open-source software (pros: transparency with clear user trust signals), a commitment to a strict no-logs policy, and results that are openly published online. Proton VPN even includes a free Proton Mail account, which helps keep your emails private with end-to-end encryption.

Secure Core: Proton VPN operates a secure network of Secure Core servers based in privacy-forward countries, including Switzerland, Iceland, and Sweden. These servers automatically route your internet traffic through two servers (also known as a double hop, double VPN, or multi-hop). This additional security measure is particularly beneficial for users in countries with a high risk of censorship, such as Russia, China, Turkey, and Iran. It can also stop spying from countries like the U.S., the U.K., and others. Proton VPN owns its Secure Core servers and routes traffic through multiple channels to avoid server monitoring, which can compromise your VPN security.

Stealth Mode protocol: Proton VPN’s Stealth Protocol enables individuals in censored countries to access the internet on their own terms with enhanced obfuscation. Protecting what individuals do online can help bypass oppressive governments that seek to stop the flow of information by making VPNs illegal. The Stealth protocol conceals VPN usage, which can be detected by oppressive governments and used to prosecute individuals for attempting to protect their privacy.

Proton VPN dashboard app showing a connection to a Canada server.
Proton VPN dashboard for All About Cookies

Also won best for:

  • Internet freedom: With enhanced privacy features like Stealth Mode and Secure Core, Proton VPN provides users with the freedom to browse the internet from anywhere in the world, without worrying about government censorship and surveillance.
  • Torrenting: Since Proton VPN is fast — it actually improved our internet speeds during testing — it can be used for quick, uninterrupted downloads when torrenting.

What we didn’t like

Buying an anonymous subscription can be tricky: Other privacy-focused VPNs, like Mullvad, allow you to sign up completely anonymously and purchase a VPN subscription with cash or cryptocurrency. With Proton VPN, you need to sign up for a free account before you can “upgrade” to a premium plan using Proton credits. Proton users can purchase Proton credits with Bitcoin, but the process is somewhat convoluted.

CyberGhost: Best for Apple users

Leading Protection, Even on Smart TVs and Gaming Consoles
4.8
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On CyberGhost's website
2025 Editor’s Choice
Best Apple VPN
VPN
CyberGhost
Start at $2.19 + 4 Months Free
  • Access high-speed global servers optimized for your streaming and gaming needs
  • Effortlessly activates when you connect to an unrecognized network for continuous protection
  • Configurable with your router, smart TV, Amazon Fire TV stick, or gaming console

What we liked

Compatibility: Apple users know that macOS and iOS often receive the short end of the stick when it comes to software features and usability, but CyberGhost doesn’t do that. First, it offers a free 24-hour Mac trial, allowing you to experience its seamless connection. Once you commit, you’ll find a VPN with optimized servers and uninterrupted internet browsing. While other software companies are eliminating support for older versions of macOS, CyberGhost remains compatible all the way back to High Sierra (10.13).

Server network: Regardless of where you use your MacBook or iPhone, you’ll have access to a large server network comprising thousands of virtual servers, as well as primarily physical servers located in the countries they serve. The RAM-only servers reboot daily, wiping the data from them each time. If the data is physically stolen, it will be deleted and unrecoverable. Additionally, CyberGhost optimizes servers for streaming and gaming, so you don’t have to worry about letting your team down because your internet connection glitched.

Travel: If you’re in a country that doesn’t speak your language, it can be comforting to connect to your streaming services to watch your favorite shows. When traveling internationally, we found CyberGhost’s streaming-optimized servers deliver lag-free quality and clean streaming. In addition to streaming, CyberGhost operates its own NoSpy server network within its headquarters in Romania, a privacy-friendly country where the government can’t demand that data be handed over. Like the steel crown of Romania, CyberGhost’s global protection is solid.

CyberGhost dashboard for All About Cookies
CyberGhost dashboard for All About Cookies

Also won best for:

  • Public Wi-Fi: Effortlessly activates when you connect to an unrecognized network, automatically protecting you from a shared public internet that can expose you to hackers and cybercriminals.

What we didn’t like

Split tunneling availability: CyberGhost’s split tunneling feature isn’t available on Apple devices. Split tunneling allows you to route some traffic through a VPN while keeping other internet traffic unencrypted, which is handy for websites like online banking that don’t trust VPNs. Currently, split tunneling is offered only on Android with Exception for Windows. This isn’t a deal breaker, but given the service's otherwise broad compatibility, we wish this were included on every device.

ExpressVPN: Best for speed

Extensive Server Network Provides Protection Wherever You Go
4.8
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On ExpressVPN's website
2025 Editor’s Choice
Best VPN for Fast Speeds
VPN
ExpressVPN
SPECIAL DEAL: 2 Years + 4 Months Free
  • Consistently fast speeds powered by the proprietary Lightway Turbo protocol
  • Full assortment of safety features, including best-in-class encryption, no log policy, and tracker protection
  • Seamless connection to Aircove router to provide protection for the whole home

What we liked

Proprietary features: ExpressVPN has developed its own protocol, Lightway, which is not only secure but also exceptionally fast. It also created its own router, the high-speed Aircove that comes with its VPN service already installed. You’ll still need a subscription, but you won’t have to worry about configuring your router to cover all the devices in your home.

Performance: Not all VPNs are created equal, and most slow down your connection with the very protocols and protections meant to encrypt your traffic. ExpressVPN, with its Lightway protocol, consistently demonstrated its reliability through our multi-year testing. During our quarterly in-house testing, speed and performance remained consistent, regardless of the device, operating system, region tested, or any other factors we threw at it. Whether inside or outside the U.S., we’ve seen peak performance from ExpressVPN.

MediaStreamer: ExpressVPN is a solid choice for entertainment-focused users who want to watch their favorite shows or compete in online gaming tournaments without worrying about lag or loading issues. It boasts MediaStreamer, a simple solution for connecting devices that aren’t compatible with VPNs. ExpressVPN also offers setup and troubleshooting support for every device, including smart devices like Apple TV, Fire TV Stick, and Android TV, as well as gaming consoles such as the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, and Xbox.

ExpressVPN dashboard for All About Cookies
ExpressVPN dashboard for All About Cookies

Also won best for:

  • Gaming and streaming: Consistent performance coupled with fast speeds and broad compatibility make ExpressVPN excellent for streaming and gaming, and it’s the top VPN of choice for professional Twitch streamers.
  • VPN installed router: The Aircove router was created by security experts to be fast, secure, and to integrate ExpressVPN, so it blankets your home or office with effortless protection.

What we didn’t like

Performance drop: Recently, during testing, we’ve observed performance issues with the new Lightway Turbo protocol. We did note lower speed scores, which is unusual since ExpressVPN has historically improved speeds. We’re hoping this is a sign of growing pains, as ExpressVPN continues to innovate with proprietary features, but we felt it was worth noting.

Price: ExpressVPN is excellent, and the price reflects that. It’s one of the highest-priced VPNs on our list. But even if you purchase an Aircove router, you’ll still need to pay full price for a subscription to use the service.

Private Internet Access: Best for sports streaming and betting

Save 82% on a 2-year subscription + 2 months free
4.7
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On Private Internet Access's website
2025 Editor’s Choice
Best Sports Streaming & Betting VPN
VPN
Private Internet Access
82% off 2-Year Plan + 2 Months Free
  • Only VPN to have a server in every U.S. state, perfect for surpassing state restrictions
  • Affordable monthly price plus unlimited simultaneous connections for all your devices
  • Fast connection speeds that seamlessly unblocks Netflix and other streaming services

What we liked

U.S servers: PIA is the only VPN provider that offers servers in all 50 U.S. states. This expansive U.S. server network enables sports fans of the NFL, NBA, MLB, and other leagues to bypass network restrictions and access regional sports content. For example, if you’re a Cleveland Browns fan visiting your kids in California, PIA ensures you can still catch a game.

Unlimited connections: Keeping your family secure, especially if you have a large household and multiple devices, requires a VPN with a high number of simultaneous connections, which PIA offers. You can watch the Dallas Cowboys while vacationing in Europe and not miss your betting deadlines before the game, while the rest of the fam surfs on encrypted connections.

Mobile experience: If you’re going to be on DraftKings, you want to make sure your financial information is protected while placing bets. We tested PIA on both desktop and mobile and found both offered a good experience. The mobile speed test performances were actually slightly faster than PIA's desktop performance. Coupled with servers in every state, this makes PIA an optimal choice for taking your content wherever you go.

Private Internet Access dashboard on mobile

Also won best for:

  • U.S. internet freedom: Some U.S. states have restrictions on certain websites, including sports betting and adult content. U.S. users can easily switch their connection to a different state to access this type of content, as PIA offers servers in every state.
  • Port forwarding: An affordable option for dynamic port forwarding. It's compatible with multiple operating systems and offers unlimited simultaneous connections.

What we didn’t like

Headquartered in the U.S.: PIA is headquartered in the U.S., which means the company falls under Eyes Alliance surveillance. Since the U.S. is well known for spying on its own citizens, having your privacy software located within its borders isn’t ideal. Privacy software in privacy-lax countries usually includes no-log and privacy-focused policies, but we still don’t love it.

PureVPN: Best for beginners

Ultra-Fast Connection Thanks to Smart Server Selection
4.7
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On PureVPN's website
2025 Editor’s Choice
Best Beginner VPN
VPN
PureVPN
82% Off + 6 Extra Months
  • Worldwide coverage with 6,000+ servers in 65+ countries
  • Automatically connect to the fastest nearby server for peak speeds
  • Easy-to-use for beginners with detailed tutorials and seamless customization

What we liked

Dedicated knowledge database and tutorials: If you’ve never used a VPN before and want to learn more about it, PureVPN offers a valuable catalog of tutorials. We love having a clean and well-organized landing page for information, which is why it’s one of our favorite features about PureVPN. In addition to offering easy-to-access tutorials, PureVPN also provides extensive knowledge on a wide range of VPN topics.

Ease of use: PureVPN boasts a visually appealing user interface that enables even novice users to connect to a VPN server with ease. Good design can make all the difference in whether you actually use your security software, and PureVPN has a great one.

Customization: From the initial setup, PureVPN allows you to customize your VPN experience by selecting your primary interest. When we selected streaming, the app created a dashboard tour with our interests in mind. For instance, we were directed to where we could access more servers optimized for specific streaming services.

PureVPN main dashboard

What we didn’t like

Additional costs: PureVPN is very à la carte, and some security features that come standard with other VPNs, such as the WireGuard protocol and port forwarding, are upcharged as premium add-ons by PureVPN. If you’re looking for an all-inclusive VPN, PureVPN might not have everything you need for one low price.

Bitdefender VPN: Best antivirus VPN

4.7
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On Bitdefender VPN's website
2025 Editor’s Choice
Best Antivirus VPN
VPN
Bitdefender VPN
Get 50% Off
  • The best standalone VPN from a trusted antivirus provider
  • Some of the best speeds we've seen from a VPN
  • Connect to 3,000+ servers in 100 countries

What we liked

Best standalone VPN from an antivirus provider: It’s rare to find a top-notch antivirus provider offering a standout VPN service. Most antivirus software bundles treat the VPN as an afterthought, and its performance usually doesn’t match that of other premium VPN providers. Bitdefender VPN outshines antivirus competitors like Norton Secure VPN, Avast SecureLine, and Total VPN in usability, performance, and price.

Performance: During our hands-on testing, Bitdefender VPN decreased our internet speeds by 1.63% only when connected to a U.S. server. It’s typical for any premium VPN service to decrease download speeds by 18%, especially VPNs included in antivirus bundles. In the same test, Norton Secure VPN dropped our speeds by 15.53%, while Total VPN marked a 33.42% decrease. Comparable VPNs struggle to unblock streaming platforms consistently, but Bitdefender VPN offers a seamless streaming experience.

Bundle with Bitdefender Antivirus: Bitdefender VPN can be purchased as a standalone subscription or as a bundle with Bitdefender Antivirus. Other premium VPN services boast antivirus protection, but Bitdefender is the cream of the crop when it comes to real-time malware protection. Bitdefender received perfect scores in independent, third-party testing for usability, performance, and protection for Windows, Android, and macOS. It also boasts an overall malware protection score of 99.97%, which is exceptionally high.

Bitdefender VPN's dashboard (connected to automatic server)

What we didn’t like

VPN data caps with antivirus bundle: Unfortunately, Bitdefender’s standalone antivirus plan, as well as the mid-tier Bitdefender Total Security, includes a 200 MB per day data cap on Bitdefender VPN. For unlimited traffic encryption (which is necessary for streaming and gaming), you must pay the upcharge for Bitdefender Premium VPN.

VPN speed tests

The fastest VPNs we tested are NordVPN, Proton VPN, and ExpressVPN. These lightning-fast VPNs actually improved our internet connection. Speed is crucial for a good VPN, as it ensures a seamless online browsing experience. We’ve tested all of the VPNs on our list, and none have impacted our performance through regular use.

If you’re gaming, streaming, or torrenting, you’ll likely be looking for the fastest VPN. Below are our in-house speed tests. If the speed loss decreased, then the connection would be slower. If it increased, it made the connection faster.

VPN speed to U.S. server Normal speed Speed loss
317.52 Mbps 314.19 Mbps +1.06% increase
410 Mbps 413.91Mbps -0.9% decrease
391.96 Mbps 389.78 Mbps +0.56% increase
421.55 Mbps 432.33 Mbps -2.49% decrease
288.44 Mbps 286.15 Mbps +0.8% increase
303.68 Mbps 360.31 Mbps -15% decrease
270.3 Mbps 325.25 Mbps -17% decrease
396.7 Mbps 403.29 Mbps -1.63% decrease
Speeds recorded as of 2025.

Compare the best VPNs of 2025

Best for Best overall Best value Best for privacy Best for Apple users Best for speed Best for sports streaming and betting Best for beginners Best antivirus VPN
Star rating
5.0
4.8
5.0
4.8
4.8
4.7
4.7
4.7
Starting price Starts at $3.09/mo (billed every two years) Starts at $1.99/mo (billed every two years) Starts at $4.49/mo (billed every two years) Starts at $2.19/mo (billed every two years) Starts at $4.99/mo (billed every two years) Starts at $2.19/mo (billed every two years) Starts at $2.14/mo (billed every two years) Starts at $2.92/mo (billed annually)
Max # devices 10 Unlimited 10 7 8 Unlimited 10 10
Servers 7,600+ servers in 118 countries 3,200+ servers in 100 countries 12,000+ servers in 117 countries Unlisted in 100 countries Unlisted in 105 countries Unlisted in 91 countries 6,000+ servers in 65+ countries 3,000+ servers in 100 countries
Headquarters Panama Netherlands Switzerland Romania British Virgin Islands United States British Virgin Islands Romania and the United States
Learn more Get NordVPN

Read NordVPN Review

Get Surfshark

Read Surfshark Review

Get Proton VPN

Read Proton VPN Review

Get CyberGhost

Read CyberGhost Review

Get ExpressVPN

Read ExpressVPN Review

Get PIA

Read PIA Review

Get PureVPN

Read PureVPN Review

Get Bitdefender VPN

Read Bitdefender VPN Review

VPN advanced security and privacy features

Encryption protocols NordLynx (WireGuard), NordWhisper, OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2 Stealth, OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2 OpenVPN, WireGuard IKEv2 Lightway, Lightway Turbo, OpenVPN, IKEv2 OpenVPN, WireGuard, IPsec OpenVPN, WireGuard IPSec/IKEv2 OpenVPN (UDP & TCP), IPSec, Hydra
Torrenting (P2P servers)
Onion over VPN (Tor over VPN)
Port forwarding
Double VPN (multi-hop)
Obfuscated servers
Learn more Get NordVPN

Read NordVPN Review

Get Surfshark

Read Surfshark Review

Get Proton VPN

Read Proton VPN Review

Get CyberGhost

Read CyberGhost Review

Get ExpressVPN

Read ExpressVPN Review

Get PIA

Read PIA Review

Get PureVPN

Read PureVPN Review

Get Bitdefender VPN

Read Bitdefender VPN Review

How to choose the best VPN

Consider these questions to choose the best VPN for you:

  • How much does it cost? Look for a VPN that costs around $5 or as a good starting point for an affordable service.
  • Does it keep logs of user data? Make sure a VPN has a strict no-logs policy you can review online and that an independent audit by a trusted company has been conducted.
  • Does it offer a large number of servers? Check to see if there are enough servers to support loads of users. Around 2,000 or more in at least 50 countries is roughly the average.
  • How secure is it? Verify if a VPN encryption uses AES-256 or equivalent and secure VPN protocols, such as WireGuard, OpenVPN, or something similar.
  • Does it slow down your internet speed? Run speed tests during free trials or if you have a 30-day money-back guarantee. A small drop in speed is expected with VPNs, but anything that might affect your everyday online activities is likely too much. Keep in mind that more distant servers typically slow down your speeds more.

Free vs. paid VPNs: Which is better?

Trying a free VPN (other than Proton VPN) might seem like a money-saving idea, but it often leads to slow, unreliable connections and a higher risk of data leaks. Even the best free VPNs can't match the quality and security of paid ones, which offer faster speeds and better protection for your online activities.

Also, paid VPNs are more likely to unblock streaming services like Netflix, making them a safer and more reliable choice in the long run. Lastly, free VPNs are notorious for capturing your data and selling it to advertisers or even injecting spyware into your activity. If you value privacy and your personal data being left alone, the majority of free VPNs aren’t going to cut it.

Thankfully, there are ways to save money on VPN services. From choosing a low-cost VPN app with lots of value, like Surfshark, to waiting for holiday deals, there are multiple hacks to fit a VPN’s extra security into your budget.

Advice from the experts

There are many benefits and reasons to use a VPN, which is why we asked for expert opinions on how a VPN works as well as the best times to use one.

How does using a VPN protect privacy online? Are they effective?

Are there times when it makes more sense to use a VPN than others?

Why do some streaming platforms only show media to subscribers from specific countries?

How can consumers benefit from changing their ISP location using a VPN?

Why do some streaming platforms only show media to subscribers from specific countries?

Some responses may have been slightly edited for clarity and brevity.

FAQs

What is the number 1 best VPN?

NordVPN is our top pick because of its high reliability, fast speeds, and emphasis on user privacy. Nord is the total package because you get an affordable price starting at $3.09/mo (billed every two years), streaming support for many popular services, and an easy-to-use interface. NordVPN also has a strict no-logs policy and provides servers that are optimized for torrenting.

What is the safest VPN?

NordVPN is the safest we've tested. In addition to strong encryption protocols, an independently verified no-logs policy, and a stellar reputation, NordVPN offers Threat Protection and a ton of advanced security features, such as malware protection, tracker and ad blocker, password manager, dark web scanning, encrypted cloud storage, identity theft recovery, cyber extortion protection, and more.

What is the best free VPN?

Proton VPN and PrivadoVPN are our top recommended choices for the best free VPNs. Proton VPN Free provides unlimited bandwidth at the cost of slower speeds and limited servers. With PrivadoVPN's free plan, you’re limited to 10 GB of data per month. However, PrivadoVPN's free plan includes access to 13 servers in 10 different countries, whereas Proton VPN Free doesn't reveal the number of servers available in 5 countries only. 

What is the best VPN for Linux?

Some of the most popular VPNs that work with Linux include NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN. Note that each of these VPN services might only work with certain Linux distributions (distros), such as Ubuntu, Debian, Mint, or Arch. Be sure to align your VPN choice with the Linux distro you use.

Bottom line: The best VPNs tested by our experts

NordVPN is the best overall VPN due to its exceptional performance, comprehensive features, and robust security, among other standout features. Surfshark, Proton VPN, and CyberGhost are some of our other top contenders, but every VPN on this list has something special we think is worth noting.

In our increasingly unsecured world, a VPN provides the security you need to browse safely online. Public Wi-Fi, travel, streaming, gaming, and other online activities all have their respective challenges. There’s a VPN out there that can meet your unique needs so you’re always secure, and our VPN Awards are the best of the best.

#1 Rated VPN for Privacy and Security
5.0
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On NordVPN's website
2025 Editor’s Choice
Best Overall VPN
VPN
NordVPN
Up to 77% Off + 3 Months Extra
  • #1 rated VPN with over 7,000 ultra-secure, high-speed servers in 118 countries
  • Reliably unblock popular streaming services like Netflix with a single click
  • All-in-one security product with antivirus, ad blocker, password manager, and more
Author Details
Mary is a seasoned cybersecurity writer with over seven years of experience. With a B.S. in Liberal Arts from Clarion University and an M.F.A. in Creative Writing from Point Park University, she educates audiences on scams, antivirus software, and more. Her passion lies in educating audiences on helpful ways to protect their data.