Top 7 VPNs of 2025: Tested and Reviewed

Having spent nearly a decade testing VPNs, one thing remains abundantly clear: not all VPNs are created equal. Some excel in unblocking content and streaming, while others prioritize robust security and privacy. These VPNs cater to various budgets, including free options, making the choice overwhelming. The key is finding the right VPN for your specific needs. Through rigorous testing, I've evaluated dozens of VPNs across multiple criteria, including server speeds, streaming capabilities, DNS leak protection, privacy policies, and customer support responsiveness. This comprehensive approach ensures a clear and accurate assessment of the best VPN services available in 2025.

TL;DR: These Are the Best VPN Services:

### Proton VPN

0See it at Proton VPN### ExpressVPN

0See it at ExpressVPN### NordVPN

0See it at NordVPN### Surfshark

0See it at Surfshark### IPVanish

0See it at IPVanish### CyberGhost

0See it at CyberGhost### Mullvad

0See it at Mullvad

Still unsure about what a VPN is? A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts your internet connection and changes your virtual location. By routing your traffic through a secure, encrypted tunnel to a server of your choice, a VPN protects your data from hackers and snoopers, and allows you to bypass geographic content restrictions by masking your IP address.

1. Proton VPN

The Best VPN

### Proton VPN

0See it at Proton VPN

Product Specifications:

• Pricing: Starting from $4.49/mo.
• Simultaneous connections: 10
• Servers: 12,000+
• Countries: 117
• Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Android TV, Apple TV

PROS:

• One of the largest server networks
• Privacy-friendly with a no-logs policy

CONS:

• MacOS app could benefit from a redesign

Proton VPN stands out for its comprehensive service. It offers high-speed connections, a vast network of over 12,000 servers across 117 countries, and excels at bypassing geo-blocking. While the MacOS app could use some aesthetic improvements, the recent updates to the Windows, Android, and iOS apps have made them more user-friendly. Proton VPN's commitment to security and privacy is evident in its no-logs policy and the option to pay anonymously in cash.

2. ExpressVPN

Best VPN for Streaming

### ExpressVPN

0See it at ExpressVPN

Product Specifications:

• Pricing: Starting from $4.99/mo.
• Simultaneous connections: 8
• Servers: Undisclosed
• Countries: 105
• Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV

PROS:

• Highly consistent unblocker
• Includes a password manager

CONS:

• Fairly expensive subscription prices

ExpressVPN is a top choice for streaming, offering fast, reliable connections across 3,000 servers in 105 countries. Its beginner-friendly interface and powerful unblocking capabilities make it a great all-rounder. The service's 256-bit AES encryption and kill switch ensure a secure connection, and although it lacks some of Surfshark's extras, it includes a useful password manager. With a 10-device limit, it's also versatile enough to be set up on your router.

3. NordVPN

Best VPN for Gaming

### NordVPN

0See it at NordVPN

Product Specifications:

• Pricing: Starting from $3.09/mo.
• Simultaneous connections: 10
• Servers: 7,000+
• Countries: 118
• Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV

PROS:

• Among the fastest VPNs
• Vast array of features

CONS:

• App’s server map feels cumbersome

NordVPN is renowned for its speed and extensive feature set, making it ideal for gamers. With over 7,000 servers in 118 countries, including 2,000 in the U.S., it offers robust unblocking capabilities for services like Netflix and Peacock. NordVPN's proprietary NordLynx protocol ensures high speeds, and its regular updates bring new features like Threat Protection Pro, which blocks ads and malicious websites, along with a password manager and data breach scanner.

4. Surfshark

Best VPN for Extra Features

### Surfshark

0See it at Surfshark

Product Specifications:

• Pricing: Starting from $1.99/mo.
• Simultaneous connections: Unlimited
• Servers: 3,000+
• Countries: 100
• Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV

PROS:

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

CONS:

• Expensive single-month plans

Surfshark's unlimited simultaneous connections make it perfect for households with multiple devices. Its 3,000+ servers in 100 countries, including nearly two dozen in the U.S., provide fast, reliable performance for streaming and gaming. Surfshark excels in security with 256-bit AES and ChaCha20 encryption, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and a kill switch. Its MultiHop servers add an extra layer of encryption, and extras like Alternative ID and antivirus enhance its value, despite higher monthly plan costs.

5. IPVanish

Best VPN for Unlimited Devices

### IPVanish

0See it at IPVanish

Product Specifications:

• Pricing: Starting from $2.19/mo.
• Simultaneous connections: Unlimited
• Servers: 2,400+
• Countries: 100
• Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV

PROS:

• Hugely improved speeds
• Various new features

CONS:

• No Smart DNS or browser extensions

IPVanish offers unlimited simultaneous connections, making it ideal for sharing within a household. With over 2,400 servers, including 1,400 in North America, it's a reliable choice for streaming U.S. Netflix and Hulu. Speed improvements have made it suitable for lag-free streaming and gaming. Both subscription tiers include Threat Protection, while the Advanced tier adds a secure browser and cloud storage. However, it lacks a Smart DNS feature and browser extensions.

Disclosure: IPVanish is owned by Ziff Davis, IGN's parent company.

6. CyberGhost

Best VPN with a Free Trial

### CyberGhost

0See it at CyberGhost

Product Specifications:

• Pricing: Starting from $2.03/mo.
• Simultaneous connections: 7
• Servers: Undisclosed
• Countries: 100
• Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Amazon Fire TV

PROS:

• Large server network
• Generous money-back guarantee

CONS:

• Still lacks an Apple TV app

CyberGhost is highly accessible with its user-friendly apps and browser extensions, making it one of the best VPNs available. Its 45-day money-back guarantee and 24-hour free trial for Windows and MacOS, without needing a credit card, are standout features. Although it doesn't publish its server count, its presence in 100 countries ensures a large network. CyberGhost lacks some advanced features like Double VPN servers and an Apple TV app, but its ease of use and trial options make it a strong contender.

7. Mullvad

Best VPN for Anonymity

### Mullvad

0See it at Mullvad

Product Specifications:

• Pricing: €5/mo. (~$5.65)
• Simultaneous connections: 5
• Servers: 700+
• Countries: 44
• Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux

PROS:

• Flat monthly rate
• Anonymous signup

CONS:

• No live chat support

Mullvad prioritizes privacy and security above all else. While it uses the fast WireGuard protocol, its limited server network and unblocking capabilities make it less suitable for streaming. However, its focus on anonymity is evident in its no-logs policy and anonymous signup process, which doesn't require an email address. Priced at a flat €5 per month and accepting cash and Monero, Mullvad is perfect for those seeking maximum privacy, despite lacking live chat support and some additional features.

How We Picked the Best VPN Services:

Selecting the top VPNs involves assessing several key factors:

• Fast, consistent connections: VPNs should not significantly slow your internet. I measured speeds across multiple server locations and times, ensuring reliable averages and testing performance during streaming and gaming.
• Strong unblocking ability: Quality VPNs offer servers in many countries, aiding in faster connections and unblocking geo-restricted content. I tested each VPN's effectiveness against streaming platforms.
• Keeps data secure: VPNs must use robust encryption like 256-bit AES or ChaCha20. I conducted DNS and IP leak tests to ensure no data escapes the VPN tunnel.
• Respects your privacy: Many VPNs compromise user privacy by logging data. I reviewed each VPN's privacy policy and prioritized those with independently audited no-logs policies.

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

1. Sign up with the best VPN service that matches your needs. Proton VPN is our top pick.
2. Download and install the VPN on your devices. Recommended services allow at least seven simultaneous connections.
3. Open the VPN app and log in if prompted. Connect to a server in your desired location, such as a U.S. server for a U.S. IP address.
4. Your connection is now secure, with your real IP address hidden and your traffic encrypted.
5. If you encounter issues unblocking content, clear your browser’s cache and cookies to help websites forget your previous IP address and location.

VPN FAQs:

Are VPNs legal to use?

Yes, VPNs are legal in most countries, with exceptions like China and Russia where their use is restricted. Always check local laws to ensure compliance.

Will a VPN slow my internet speed?

VPNs can slightly slow your internet by encrypting and redirecting your traffic. However, top VPNs use fast protocols and do not throttle bandwidth, minimizing any noticeable impact even during streaming.

Can I use a VPN to access Netflix?

Netflix blocks VPNs to enforce copyright and licensing agreements. However, some VPNs can bypass these blocks, and several from our best VPN list are capable of doing so.

Why not just use a free VPN instead?

Free VPNs typically offer limited servers and locations, cap data and speed, and may compromise your privacy by logging and selling your data. They are unsuitable for anything beyond basic browsing.