The Best VPNs of 2026: Independently Tested and Editor-Approved

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 other factors. 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.

The best VPNs of 2026

NordVPN: Best overall

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 honestly 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.

Also won best for:

• Streaming: Thanks to the proprietary NordLynx protocol, NordVPN boasts reliable speeds that keep you free from buffering. Plus, the dedicated IP 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 NordVPN Threat Protection for blocking ads and malicious files, 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).

Discontinued Meshnet: We loved NordVPN's unique free feature, Meshnet, which allowed gamers and others to create a private, secure network of up to 60 devices. Meshnet was perfect for hosting hassle-free LAN parties on a secure network. 

It's a shame the feature was discontinued altogether. We would've liked to have seen Meshnet at least bundled into the premium plans. 

Test results

Star rating summary

Surfshark: Best value

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.

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.

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 two-year commitment. 

While we’re firm believers in buying the most valuable option, such as a two-year subscription to Surfshark One+, we don’t think it should be the only option for consumers looking to save a little money.

Test results

Star rating summary

Proton VPN: Best for privacy

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 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.

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.

Test results

Star rating summary

ExpressVPN: Best for speed

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.

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 has launched three plan tiers, so you can get ExpressVPN Basic for only $2.79/mo. However, the Basic tier has stripped away features that were previously included with all subscriptions, like its password manager and tracker blocking. 

Also, ExpressVPN covers 10 simultaneous connections, but the ExpressVPN Pro tier covers up to 14 simultaneous connections.

Test results

Star rating summary

CyberGhost: Best for Apple users

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.

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 a workaround for Windows. This isn’t a deal breaker, but given the service's otherwise broad compatibility, we wish this were included on every device.

Test results

Star rating summary

Private Internet Access: Best for sports streaming and betting

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.

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 Five 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.

Test results

Star rating summary

PureVPN: Best for beginners

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.

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.

Test results

Star rating summary

Bitdefender VPN: Best antivirus VPN

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: In the past, Bitdefender VPN has decreased our internet speeds by as little as 1.63% when connected to a U.S. server. It’s typical for any premium VPN service to decrease download speeds by about 18%, especially VPNs included in antivirus bundles. 

In the same test period, 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.

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.

Test results

Star rating summary

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 percentage is higher, the connection is slower. If it’s lower (or negative), the connection is faster

	VPN speed to U.S. server	Normal speed	Speed loss
	287.18 Mbps	304.86 Mbps	-6% decrease
	426.39 Mbps	478.23 Mbps	-11% decrease
	536.09 Mbps	500.31 Mbps	+7% increase
	256.37 Mbps	313.53 Mbps	-18% decrease
	551.11 Mbps	542.20 Mbps	+2% increase
	220.80 Mbps	393.39 Mbps	-44% decrease
	315.00  Mbps	428.00 Mbps	-26% decrease
	440.90 Mbps	566.30 Mbps	-22% decrease

VPN advanced security and privacy features

Encryption protocols	NordLynx (WireGuard), NordWhisper, OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec	OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2	Stealth, OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2	Lightway, Lightway Turbo, OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard	OpenVPN, WireGuard 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 ExpressVPN Read ExpressVPN Review	Get CyberGhost Read CyberGhost 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 use it 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 whether the VPN uses AES-256 encryption or an equivalent and secure VPN protocol, such as WireGuard, OpenVPN, or a similar protocol.
• Does it slow down your internet speed? Run speed tests during free trials or if you have a 30-day money-back guarantee. A slight decrease in speed is expected with VPNs, but anything that significantly impacts your everyday online activities is likely excessive. 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.

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.

All About Cookies picks for best VPN services of 2026

• NordVPN
  • Servers: 8,800+ servers in 120+ countries
  • Max devices: Allowing for 10 simultaneous device connections across all plans
  • Starting cost: $3.39/mo
  • Award: Best overall VPN
• Surfshark
  • Servers: 4,500+ servers in 100 countries
  • Max devices: Allowing for unlimited simultaneous device connections across all plans, a rare perk
  • Starting cost: $1.99/mo
  • Award: Best value VPN
• Proton VPN
  • Servers: 17,200+ servers in 120+ countries
  • Max devices: Allowing for 10 simultaneous device connections across all paid plans
  • Starting cost: $3.59/mo
  • Award: Best privacy VPN
• ExpressVPN
  • Servers: Unlisted in 105 countries
  • Max devices: Allowing for up to 14 simultaneous device connections, depending on the plan
  • Starting cost: $3.99/mo
  • Award: Best VPN for speed
• CyberGhost
  • Servers: Unlisted in 100 countries
  • Max devices: Allowing for 7 simultaneous device connections across all plans
  • Starting cost: $2.03/mo
  • Award: Best VPN for Apple OS
• Private Internet Access
  • Servers: Unlisted in 91 countries
  • Max devices: Allowing for Unlimited simultaneous device connections across all plans
  • Starting cost: $2.03/mo
  • Award: Best VPN for sports betting and streaming
• PureVPN
  • Servers: 6,000+ servers in 65+ countries
  • Max devices: Allowing for 10 simultaneous device connections across all plans
  • Starting cost: $2.15/mo
  • Award: Best VPN for beginners
• Bitdefender VPN
• Servers: 3,000+ servers in 100+ countries
• Max devices: Allowing for 10 simultaneous device connections across all plans
• Starting cost: $2.92/mo
• Award: Best VPN with antivirus bundle

Advice from digital security experts and more

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