Updated December 2025

The Best VPN Services in 2025

Compare the top VPN providers worldwide for privacy, speed, streaming and device compatibility. Our independent reviews help you choose the perfect VPN.

Independent VPN reviews
Tested worldwide
Updated regularly
#1

NordVPN

Best Overall VPN
9.7

NordVPN is the best overall VPN service, offering excellent security, fast global servers, and reliable access to streaming platforms worldwide. With 6,000+ servers in 111 countries, it provides unmatched coverage and performance.

6,000+ servers in 111 countries
Strict no-logs policy (audited)
Excellent for streaming Netflix, Disney+
Advanced security features (Threat Protection)
Visit NordVPN Read Full Review
#2

Surfshark

Best Value VPN
9.5

Surfshark offers the best value in the VPN market with unlimited device connections, making it perfect for families. Despite its low price, it doesn't compromise on speed or security features.

Unlimited simultaneous connections
3,200+ servers in 100 countries
CleanWeb ad and malware blocker
Budget-friendly pricing
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#3

ExpressVPN

Fastest Premium VPN
9.4

ExpressVPN consistently delivers the fastest speeds in our tests, making it ideal for streaming and gaming. Its proprietary Lightway protocol offers excellent performance without sacrificing security.

Fastest speeds in testing
94 countries covered
Proprietary Lightway protocol
Excellent app design
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#4

Proton VPN

Best for Privacy
9.3

Proton VPN is built by the team behind ProtonMail and offers the strongest privacy credentials. Based in Switzerland with open-source apps and a genuine free tier, it's the top choice for privacy-focused users.

Swiss-based (strong privacy laws)
Open-source and audited apps
Genuine free tier available
Secure Core servers
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#5

Private Internet Access

Best Server Network
9.1

Private Internet Access (PIA) boasts the largest server network with over 35,000 servers worldwide. Its proven no-logs policy has been verified in court, and it offers highly customizable security options.

35,000+ servers worldwide
Court-proven no-logs policy
Unlimited device connections
Open-source apps
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#6

CyberGhost

Best for Beginners
8.9

CyberGhost is the most user-friendly VPN, perfect for beginners. It features dedicated streaming and gaming servers, making it easy to find the right connection for your needs.

User-friendly interface
Dedicated streaming servers
45-day money-back guarantee
9,500+ servers
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#7

Hide.me

Strong Security Features
8.7

Hide.me offers robust security with support for multiple protocols including WireGuard. Based in Malaysia, it operates outside the 14 Eyes surveillance alliance and offers a capable free tier.

Malaysia-based (no data retention)
Multiple protocol support
Free tier available
No bandwidth limits
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#8

PrivateVPN

Great for Streaming
8.5

PrivateVPN is a Swedish provider that punches above its weight, offering reliable streaming access and solid speeds. It's an affordable option with a smaller but quality server network.

Sweden-based
Reliable streaming unblocking
Stealth VPN mode
Affordable pricing
Visit PrivateVPN Read Full Review
#9

Windscribe

Best Free Option
8.4

Windscribe offers a generous free tier with 10GB monthly data and access to servers in 10+ countries. Its R.O.B.E.R.T feature provides excellent ad and malware blocking capabilities.

10GB free monthly data
R.O.B.E.R.T ad blocker
Unlimited connections
Build-a-plan pricing
Visit Windscribe Read Full Review
#10

Hotspot Shield

Fast Proprietary Protocol
8.2

Hotspot Shield uses its proprietary Hydra protocol to deliver impressive speeds. It's a straightforward VPN that excels at basic protection and streaming, though it collects some usage data.

Proprietary Hydra protocol
Very fast speeds
Easy-to-use apps
Free version available
Visit Hotspot Shield Read Full Review

How Does a VPN Work?

A VPN creates a secure, encrypted tunnel between your device and the internet

Your Device
Encrypted VPN Tunnel
Internet

When you connect to a VPN, your internet traffic is routed through an encrypted tunnel to a VPN server. This hides your real IP address and encrypts all data, making it unreadable to hackers, your ISP, or anyone trying to spy on your connection. Websites see the VPN server's IP address instead of yours, protecting your identity and allowing you to access content from different locations.

How to Install a VPN in 4 Easy Steps

Get protected in minutes with this simple setup guide

1

Choose a VPN Provider

Select a reputable VPN from our top 10 list above. Consider factors like speed, security features, server locations, and price. We recommend NordVPN or Surfshark for most users.

2

Create an Account & Subscribe

Visit the VPN provider's website and sign up for a plan. Most offer monthly, yearly, or multi-year subscriptions. Longer plans typically offer better value with discounts up to 80%.

3

Download & Install the App

Download the VPN app for your device from the provider's website or your device's app store (Google Play, App Store, Microsoft Store). Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.

4

Connect & Browse Securely

Open the VPN app, log in with your account, and click the connect button. Choose a server location or use the quick-connect feature to automatically select the fastest server. You're now protected!

Pro Tips for Using Your VPN

  • Enable auto-connect: Set your VPN to connect automatically when you start your device or join public WiFi
  • Use the kill switch: Enable this feature to block internet access if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly
  • Choose nearby servers: For the fastest speeds, connect to servers geographically close to you
  • Test for leaks: Use online tools to verify your IP address and DNS are properly hidden

VPN Comparison Table

Compare features, speeds, and pricing across the top VPN providers

VPN Provider Devices Servers Speed Streaming Price From Visit
NordVPN
10 6,000+ / 111 Excellent $3.39/mo Visit
Surfshark
Unlimited 3,200+ / 100 Very Good $2.19/mo Visit
ExpressVPN
8 3,000+ / 94 Fastest $6.67/mo Visit
Proton VPN
10 3,000+ / 71 Good $4.99/mo Visit
PIA
Unlimited 35,000+ / 91 Good $2.03/mo Visit
CyberGhost
7 9,500+ / 100 Good $2.19/mo Visit
Hide.me
10 2,100+ / 78 Good $3.45/mo Visit
PrivateVPN
10 200+ / 63 Good $2.00/mo Visit
Windscribe
Unlimited 480+ / 69 Good $5.75/mo Visit
Hotspot Shield
10 1,800+ / 80 Very Good $2.99/mo Visit

Best VPNs by Device

Find the perfect VPN for your specific device or platform

Best VPN for Android
Best VPN for iPhone
Best VPN for Windows
Best VPN for Mac
Best VPN for Linux

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about VPN services answered

NordVPN is widely considered the best VPN service in 2025, offering excellent security features, fast speeds, a large server network spanning 111 countries, and reliable access to streaming platforms worldwide. It provides the best balance of security, speed, and usability for most users.
VPNs are legal in most countries including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and most of Europe. However, some countries like China, Russia, Belarus, North Korea, Iraq, and the UAE have restrictions or outright bans on VPN usage. Always check local laws before using a VPN when traveling.
NordVPN and Surfshark are excellent choices for both Android and iPhone users. They offer user-friendly mobile apps with intuitive interfaces, strong security features including kill switches that work reliably on mobile, and minimal battery impact. Both provide seamless protection when switching between WiFi and mobile data.
Most free VPNs are not recommended as they often have limited security features, may sell user data to advertisers, contain malware, or impose severe speed and data limits. If budget is a concern, consider Proton VPN's free tier or Windscribe's 10GB monthly plan, which offer genuine privacy protection without compromising your data.
Yes, a good VPN can help you access geo-restricted content on platforms like Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and more. NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark are particularly effective at unblocking streaming services. However, streaming services actively work to block VPNs, so not all providers work reliably.
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