10 Best VPN of 2024 – Tried & Tested by VPNBrains Research Team

The demand for reliable and efficient VPN services has reached new heights. Whether you’re concerned about privacy, bypassing geo-restrictions, or fortifying your online security, we are here to help you in the search for the perfect VPN. To guide you through this ever-expanding realm of virtual private networks, we’ve created a list of the 10 best VPNs in 2024.

To create this list, I, together with a team of experts, delved into the intricacies of each VPN service, dissecting their features, assessing their performance, and letting you know what makes them stand out. From enhanced encryption protocols to lightning-fast connection speeds, our comprehensive guide will arm you with the knowledge you need to make an informed decision and choose the VPN that is best for you.

Whether you’re a seasoned tech enthusiast or a casual Internet user, read on to find out all the information you need to select the best 2024 VPN for your needs.

In a hurry? Here are 10 best VPNs of 2024

Keep reading for more of the best VPNs for 2024

How to choose the best VPN

Knowing how to choose the best VPN for your personal needs can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options available. Here are some guidelines to help you choose a great VPN service provider.

• Speed. Fast connection speeds ensure stable and lag-free service when using a VPN for streaming, gaming, or any other online activity.
• Security and privacy. Make sure the VPN keeps up with the industry standards necessary to protect you from cyber threats, even when you are using a VPN on unsecured public WiFi. A VPN with a strict and verified zero-logs policy will ensure that all of your data remains private.
• Server network. A large server network allows you to avoid slowdowns from heavy online traffic during peak use hours, while a broad network of server locations allows you to access geo-restricted content worldwide.
• Streaming. Only the best VPN service providers have the technology to bypass the tough geo-blocks on popular streaming services like Netflix. It’s important to look at the VPNs’ past performance when it comes to unblocking geographically restricted sites.
• Compatibility. Check to see if the VPN app is compatible with your home devices and that it allows you to connect as many devices as you need to cover your entire household on one account.
• Cost. Select a plan that offers a good value for your money and fits your budget. Make sure it comes with a money-back guarantee so you can take advantage of the lower-priced, longer-term plans without too much risk.
• Customer support. Select an easy-to-use VPN that has 24/7 live chat support standing by to help you out whenever you need it.

With these guidelines in mind, here is a list of specific features the best VPN providers include:

Security	AES 256-bit encryption, ChaCha20 encryption, Kill Switch
Privacy	Verified no logs policy, DNS & IP leak protection
Speed	Fast protocols (Wireguard, Lightway, NordLynx)
Servers	Ram-only, obfuscated, optimized for streaming and torrenting
Streaming	Unblocks Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, (HBO) Max, Hulu, Vudu, and more
Compatibility	Apps for Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, and iOS

10 best VPNs in 2024

We’ve looked into all of the features that make a VPN great, including performance, security, and customer support, and selected the 10 best VPNs available for 2024. You’ll find a detailed report on all of these VPNs in the section below.

1. ExpressVPN

The best all-around virtual private network, ExpressVPN offers the highest level of speed, security, privacy, and dependability for all of your online needs.

Features: ExpressVPN offers intuitive apps that are easy to use for beginners. If you do need help, the 24/7 live chat support is prompt and knowledgeable. ExpressVPN provides a large selection of over 3,000 servers in 105 countries around the world.

The split tunneling feature allows you to select what data you want to send through the VPN’s encrypted tunnel and what connections should remain on your local ISP. It has a stealth mode that conceals your VPN usage so you can get past the toughest geo-blocks, including China’s. Plus, ExpressVPN recently added Keys, a password manager, to its services.

Speed: ExpressVPN was one of the fastest VPN services we tested and maintained its excellent download and upload speed, even on long-distance connections. When connected to a US VPN server, the download speed was 176 Mbps, the upload speed was 47 Mbps, and the ping was 40 ms. In the UK, the download speed was 140 Mbps, the upload speed was 37 Mbps, and the ping was 107.

Privacy and security: ExpressVPN offers a first-rate security suite for all of your web traffic with its AES 256-bit encryption, Perfect Forward Secrecy, built-in IP & DNS leak protection, and an automatic Kill Switch. The Threat Manager is designed to block unwanted ads and malware. There are a variety of secure protocols available to ExpressVPN subscribers, including the ultra-fast Lightway Protocol and OpenVPN.

The strict no-logs policy means that ExpressVPN doesn’t keep any data on your online activities to hand over to authorities should they ask. In addition, the company is based in the British Virgin Islands, which is safely outside of the 5/9/14 eyes alliance.

Performance: This is a high-performing VPN for all your online needs. Users can enjoy flawless streaming of online content without geo-graphic restrictions getting in the way. P2P servers support quick and secure torrenting, and the speed is good enough for lag-free online gaming.

Streaming: The Media Streamer and smart DNS allow you to easily access geo-restricted content worldwide on most streaming services, including Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, (HBO) Max, Hulu, Vudu, and more.

Compatibility: The VPN app is easy to use, even for beginners, and is compatible with all major operating systems, including Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, and iOS. You can connect as many devices as 8 devices at the same time, so you can use it with your mobile device, computer, gaming console, smart TV, and router simultaneously.

Pricing: While ExpressVPN is one of the highest-performing VPNs, it is also one of the more costly. The best value is the one-year plan, which you can get for $6.67/month, and you will get a bonus of 3 months for free. You’ve also got 30 days to try it out risk-free.

2. NordVPN

One of the most popular VPN providers, NordVPN is a fast, dependable VPN with plenty of security features to protect your Internet connection.

Features: There are over 6,400 fast and secure servers in 111 countries in the NordVPN network, with an option for a dedicated IP address and split tunneling. All subscribers can get the support they need 24/7 on the live chat support and are protected by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Speed: NordVPN is one of the fastest VPNs on the market. When connected to a New York server, the download speed measured at 139 Mbps, the upload speed was 10, and the ping was at 19 ms. Speeds were also impressive on a UK server, with a download speed of 110 Mbps, an upload speed of 12 Mbps, and a ping of 17 ms.

Privacy and security: When you connect to a NordVPN server, your data is protected by AES 256-bit encryption, IP & DNS leak protection, and an automatic Kill Switch. It also offers secure protocols, including the ultra-fast NordLynx, IKEv2/IPsec, and OpenVPN. The double VPN feature offered by NordVPN passes your data through two or more servers to provide extra levels of protection. Using the CyberSec feature can further protect you against intrusive ads, malware, and phishing attempts.

Not only does NordVPN deliver a strict no-logs policy, but the company is based in the privacy-friendly country of Panama, which has no data retention laws and is outside the jurisdiction of the 5/9/14 eyes alliance.

Performance: No matter what your needs are, NordVPN has the speed and software to get the job done. NordVPN allows you to stream content worldwide without any buffering, pixelation, or dropped connections. The P2P servers support quick and secure torrenting. Gamers can enjoy lag-free play, while having the comfort of a secure line while playing against strangers online.

Streaming: The Smartplay DNS feature does a great job of getting past geographic restrictions on popular streaming sites such as Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, (HBO) Max, Hulu, Vudu, and more.

Compatibility: The VPN software is compatible with Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, and iOS and is easy to set up on any home device, including computers, mobile devices, smart TVs, gaming consoles, and routers. You can use up to 6 devices concurrently on a single account.

Pricing: Right now, subscribers pay $3.39/month when they sign up for 24 months, and they get 4 months extra for free. Try it out, and if you aren’t satisfied, cancel within 30 days and get a full refund.

3. Surfshark

Surfshark VPN is the best VPN for users on a budget, offering dependable, secure, and fast Internet connections for less than the premium VPN services.

Features: The features of this budget VPN are comparable to the premium plans. It includes a large server network of 3,200+ servers in 100+ countries worldwide. The Whitelister split tunneling feature allows you to hand-pick what data you want to send via your VPN connections. Surshark also recently added Nexus technology, which includes an IP rotator, an IP randomizer, and a dynamic multihop mode. You also have the option for a dedicated IP address.

Speed: Speed test results when using the quick connect feature resulted in a download speed of 160 Mbps, an upload speed of 10 Mbps, and a ping of 57 ms. When connected to a European server, the download speed was 171 Mbps, the upload speed was 9 Mbps, and the ping was 109 ms. Finally, when connected to the Far East, the download speed was 150 Mbps, the upload speed was 6 Mbps, and the ping went up to 212 ms.

Privacy and security: The security suite offers the same level of protection that you receive with the premium VPN services, including AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, and IP & DNS leak protection. Plus, the CleanWeb feature offers malware protection and an ad blocker. You have your choice of secure protocols, including the superfast WireGuard protocol, IKEv2/IPsec, and Open VPN. The multi-hop mode routes your VPN connection through more than one server if you are looking for an extra layer of protection.

Surfshark VPN does not keep any logs and is based in The Netherlands, where there are no mandatory data retention laws, and though it is part of the 5/9/14 eyes alliance, given the logging policy and location of the VPN service, you can feel confident that your online activities will remain private.

Performance: The speed and connectivity on Surfshark VPN will allow you to enjoy streaming and gaming in countries all around the world. While you may experience rare instances of lag, the 24/7 live chat support can help you resolve any issues by directing you to a faster server. When it comes to torrenting, Surshark’s P2P servers work with uTorrent, BitTorrent, Vuze, and many others and provide good download speeds.

Streaming: When it comes to bypassing geo-blocks, we found Surfhshark could reliably unblock Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, (HBO) Max, Hulu, Vudu, and more. With servers in over 100 countries, nothing is holding you back from watching any content available online.

Compatibility: With Surfshark, you get unlimited simultaneous connections, and it will work with your mobile devices, laptops, desktops, routers, gaming consoles, and smart TVs, so Surfhshark has got you covered no matter how large your household is. Plus, it’s easy to use with any operating system, including Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, and iOS.

Pricing: This VPN is a great value when you subscribe to the 24-month plan for only $2.19/month and you will get an additional 4 months for free. The 12-month plan is available for $2.79/month, and if you only want to sign up for 1 month it’s available for 10.99/month. Your Surfshark subscription comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

4. CyberGhost

A secure VPN that is known for its strong privacy protection and user-friendly app. CyberGhost VPN has a large network of servers worldwide at a low cost and is capable of torrenting, streaming, gaming, and more.

Features: The CyberGhost VPN network is vast, including 11,500+ in 100 countries, and you can choose from servers optimized for streaming, gaming, or torrenting, depending on your needs. It also offers dedicated IP addresses and a double VPN. A hard-to-find feature offered by CyberGhost VPN is its automated HTTPS redirect and data compression. Smart Rules allows you to set up your app however you like; for example, it can turn on automatically with certain apps or while you are connected to public Wi-Fi.

Speed: While CyberGhost didn’t perform as well as the premium VPN services on the speed test, the Internet connection was stable and adequate for most online activities. When connected to a server in New York, the download speed was 58 Mbps, the upload speed was 12 Mbps, and the ping was 26. Speed test results on the UK server were a download speed of 30 and an upload speed of 12. This is all compared to a baseline download speed of 205 Mbps, an upload speed of 12 Mbps, and a baseline ping of 11.

Privacy and security: When it comes to privacy, CyberGhost has a rock-solid reputation, including a verified strict no-log policy. It is based in Romania, which is known for its strong privacy protection laws and is not part of the 5-eyes alliance.

Security features include AES 256-bit encryption, RAM-only servers, a Kill Switch, and DNS & IP leak protection. It also offers a variety of secure protocols, including the speed Wireguard protocol, OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec, and PPTP protocols. It also blocks ads, malware, and online tracking.

Performance: Overall, CyberGhost is a user-friendly VPN that has adequate speed for streaming, torrenting, and gaming, especially when connected to the lightweight Wireguard protocol. Keep in mind, however, that CyberGhost isn’t the best VPN service when it comes to speed. For that, you want to stick with one of the premium plans listed above.

Streaming: This VPN proved its ability to get past the geo-blocks on Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, (HBO) Max, Hulu, Vudu, and more. There were some instances of buffering, particularly when streaming in HD.

Compatibility: The simple installation process makes this a great VPN for beginners, and it works with all major devices, including Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, and iOS. Connect up to 7 devices on a single account!

Pricing: The best deal on this VPN is the 2-year plan, which is available for $2.03/month, and you get 4 months for free. The one-year plan costs $6.99/month, and if you choose to just sign up for 1 month it’s available for $12.99/month. The long-term plans come with a generous 45-day money-back guarantee.

5. Proton VPN

Proton VPN is a solid VPN with good security and privacy protection. While it isn’t necessarily a cheap VPN, this provider offers a free version that you can trust.

Features: Proton VPN has a network of 5,200+ servers in 91 server locations around the world. NetShield Ad blocker protects you from unwanted ads and keeps you safe from malware and trackers. Tor over VPN allows you to safely connect to the Tor network from your browser, while the perfect forward secrecy means you’re protected even if an encryption key becomes compromised down the road. Proton VPN also comes with advanced features such as split tunneling, secure core servers, double VPN, and a VPN accelerator to improve speed.

Privacy and security: Proton VPN offers two different types of encryption, including the gold standard AES 256-bit encryption and the secure ChaCha20, which is used in conjunction with the WireGuard protocol. Additional security features include a Kill Switch and DNS & IP leak protection. Users have the choice of several different secure protocols, including OpenVPN, Stealth, IPSec/IKEv2, and WireGuard.

Proton VPN has an independently verified no-logs policy and is based in Switzerland, which is known for its privacy protection and is not part of the 5/9/14 eyes alliance. While Proton VPN does not offer RAM-only servers, all data is stored in fully encrypted drives.

Speed: There was a minimal drop in speed when compared to the baseline of 500 Mbps during speed testing. When connected to a local server in the US, the download speed was 470 Mbps, and the upload speed was 460 Mbps. Overseas in the UK, the upload speed was 450 Mbps, and the download speed was 455 Mbps.

Performance: When you select the fast and secure Wireguard protocol, the speed on Proton VPN is good enough for enoyable gaming, streaming, and torrenting. The Stealth protocol is the best way to get past firewalls.

Streaming: The dependable geo-spoofing technology on Proton VPN allows you to unblock Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and more.

Compatibility: The app is easy to use and compatible with a variety of operating systems, including Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, and iOS. The paid plan includes 10 simultaneous connections, while the free plan only allows for one device at a time.

Pricing: You can access a limited number of Proton VPN features for free. If you want the full benefit of this VPN provider, choose from one of their subscription options. The one-month plan is available for $9.99/month, the one-year plan is yours for $5.99/month, and for the best rate sign up for 2 years and pay $4.99/month. All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

6. Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access: A secure VPN service that has been around since 2010, and its staying power is due not only to its dependability but also its ability to stay current.

Features: One of the more impressive features of the Private Internet Access VPN is its huge server network of over 30,000+ servers in 91 countries. It also offers split tunneling, which allows you to select what data you want to be sent through the encrypted tunnel and what you want to keep on your local internet service provider. For an extra level of security, it also offers a port forwarding feature and malware protection.

Speed: As expected, there was a drop in speed when connected to the Private Internet Access VPN server as compared to baseline, and the difference was more pronounced with a long-distance connection, but the Internet connection speed was stable and adequate for online activities.

When connected to the local ISP, the download speed was 195 Mbps, and the upload speed was 12 Mbps. When connected to a New York Privat Internet Access server, the download speed was 119 Mbps, and the upload speed was 12 Mbps. The speed on a UK server was 75 Mbsps for the download and 9 for the upload.

Privacy and security: You know your connection is secure with the Private Internet Access military-grade encryption, kill switch, and DNS leak prevention. It uses the secure OpenVPN protocol. Privacy is ensured with the RAM-only servers and strict no-logs policy, which should keep you safe despite being headquartered in the US, which is part of the 5/9/14 eyes alliance.

Performance: While Private Internet Access isn’t as fast as ExpressVPN or NordVPN, it generally supports smooth streaming, and it works for torrenting.

Streaming: Watch content on Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, (HBO) Max, Hulu, Vudu, and more without geographic restrictions getting in the way.

Compatibility: You can connect unlimited devices at the same time and the app is compatible with Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Brave, Edge, and Opera.

Pricing: The subscription costs for Private Internet Access range from $2.03/month for the two-year plan, $7.50/month for six month plan, and $11.99 for one month of service. The plans include a 30-day trial period, so you can cancel and get your money back if you aren’t totally satisfied. No free version is available.

7. IPVanish

IPVanish makes the list of best VPN services for its dependability for streaming, torrenting, and gaming at a reasonable price.

Features: IPVanish offers some top features, including split tunneling, which allows you to send some data through your ISP and some through your VPN provider, as well as obfuscated servers and encrypted storage for an extra level of security. The network is relatively small, with 2,400+ servers in 55 countries.

Speed: While the speed did slow down from baseline, the speed on IPVanish was still good enough for just about any online activity. When connected to a US server, the download speed was 103 Mbps, and the upload speed was 9 Mbps. A UK server delivered a download speed of 124 Mbps and an upload speed of 11 Mbps. The baseline ISP speed was 210 Mbps for the download and 13 Mbps for the upload. Speeds were even better when using the Wireguard protocol, hitting an impressive download speed of 900 Mbps locally.

Privacy and security: You get all the security features that the best VPN services provide, including AES 256-bit encryption, a Kill Switch, and DNS & IP leak protection. It also offers a variety of secure protocols, including WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2.

While it is based in the US, which is a drawback when it comes to privacy as the US is part of the 5/9/14 eyes alliance, it has a no-logs policy, so even if authorities request information, the provider will have nothing to hand over.

Performance: IPVanish demonstrates good speed as well as a free SOCKS5 proxy, allowing for fast and reliable torrenting as well as smooth streaming and gaming.

Streaming: During testing, we were able to unblock numerous streaming services, including Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, (HBO) Max, Vudu, and more, and with 52 country server locations worldwide, users can access a variety of global content libraries.

Compatibility: The VPN services are compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, and no need to choose which devices you want to protect with your VPN service, as there is no limit to the number of devices you can use at the same time.

Pricing: You can take advantage of the lower prices that come with the longer-term plan risk-free since it comes with a 30-day trial period. The 24-month plan is available now for $2.19/month. The 12-month plan is $2.79/month, and the monthly plan is available for $12.99/month. There is no free version option.

8. PrivateVPN

One of the smaller VPN services, PrivateVPN holds its own with good speed, effective torrenting, smooth streaming, and secure and private connections.

Features: PrivateVPN has 200+ servers in 63 countries, yet this small number of servers provides fast, secure, and stable Internet access, and it includes dedicated P2P servers for torrenting. The Stealth VPN mode can bypass the strongest firewalls, including China’s. The VPN service also offers an option for port forwarding.

Speed: While PrivateVPN is not one of the fastest VPN providers, it still offers adequate speeds for most online activities. In the USA, the download speed was 90 Mbps, and the upload speed was 92 Mbps, while the ping measured at 212 ms. The UK server speeds were slightly slower, with a download speed of 87 Mbps, an upload speed of 85 Mbps, and a ping of 134 ms.

Privacy and security: Security measures include military-level encryption, a Kill Switch, and a zero-logs policy. While it does not yet offer the fastest of the protocols, Wireguard, it does offer the secure OpenVPN protocol. It is based in Sweden, which is part of the 5/9/14 eyes alliance and has some mandatory data retention laws.

Performance: PrivateVPN has adequate speed for streaming and provides dependable torrenting capabilities. Serious gamers may want to choose one of the premium VPNs that offer lower ping to avoid lag.

Streaming: Users can reliably access Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, (HBO) Max, Hulu, Vudu, and more without having to worry about geographic restrictions getting in their way.

Compatibility: You can use PrivateVPN with most operating systems, including Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, and iOS. Each account allows for 10 simultaneous connections.

Pricing: Sign up for 36 months, and you pay only $2.00/month. You can also choose the 3-month plan for $6.00/month or pay for just one month at a time for $9.90/month. The extended subscriptions include a money-back guarantee for 30 days. A free version is not available at this time, but it does offer a 7-day free trial.

9. PureVPN

Security-minded consumers are in good hands with PureVPN without having to spend a lot.

Features Subscribers can take advantage of the split tunneling feature to decide what data they want to send through the virtual private network. It also offers port forwarding, and for a small additional fee, you can get a password manager and a dedicated IP address. The PureVPN network includes 6,500+ servers in 78 countries.

Speed: As compared to the ISP baseline, there was an expected decrease in speed, but PureVPN still demonstrated a quick and dependable VPN connection. On a US-based VPN server, the baseline download speed of 97 Mbps changed to 53 Mbps, and the upload speed changed from 93 Mbps to 62 Mbps. The UK VPN server speeds were measured at a download of 75 Mbps and an upload of 80 Mbps.

Privacy and security: When using PureVPN, your data is protected by AES-256 Bit encryption, reliable DNS leak protection, and an automatic Kill switch that keeps you safe even if your VPN connection drops. It offers a variety of secure protocols, including WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2, SSTP, and L2TP/IPSec. Plus, the unique Always-On audit feature safeguards your privacy around the clock.

After a 2017 incident where PureVPN handed over data to FBI authorities, they have since tightened up their privacy and have passed independent auditing tests. they keep no logs and are based in the privacy-friendly British Virgin Islands.

Performance: The Wireguard protocol provides the best speeds on this VPN service, though keep in mind the split tunneling feature and dedicated IP address is not compatible with this protocol. For the best speed, select a local VPN server.

Streaming: PureVPN has upped its game when it comes to streaming geo-restricted content worldwide and can reliably unblock Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and more.

Compatibility: The VPN service offers intuitive apps that are compatible with Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, and iOS, though there were occasional glitches in the service. You can connect up to 10 devices concurrently on your account.

Pricing: PureVPN offers highly competitive pricing, including the 2-year plan for $2.14/month, including 2 months free, a one-year plan for $3.99/month, or a one-month plan for $12.95. Subscribers have 31 days to cancel and get their money back. This VPN does not come with a free version.

10. VyprVPN

This is the best VPN service for getting past tough firewalls, including The Great Firewall of China. VyprVPN is a great choice for anyone looking for a fully secure and private VPN connection.

Features: The Chameleon Protocol allows you to avoid the Deep Pocket Inspection China uses to identify VPN services so you can bypass the Firewall of China. The VPN service also includes a split tunneling feature, malware protection, and a public WiFi protection feature. The VPN network includes a relatively small number of servers, including 700+ servers in 64 countries.

Speed: When it comes to speed, VyprVPN isn’t the best VPN service, but it is adequate for most online needs. As compared to a baseline of 467 Mbps for download and 420 Mbps upload, the download speed on a local VPN server was 120 Mbps for the download and 83 for the upload when using the faster Wireguard Protocol. Speeds were significantly lower with other protocols. When connected to a European server, the download speed dropped to 100 Mbps, and the upload speed was 102 Mbps.

Privacy and security: One of the best VPN services when it comes to security, your connection is protected by AES 256-bit encryption, trusted DNS and IP leak protection, and an effective automatic Kill Switch. There are a variety of secure protocols to choose from, including WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2, and Chameleon. The VPN company promises a zero-logs policy and is based in Switzerland, which is outside the 5-eyes alliance and is a privacy-friendly country.

Performance: This VPN service isn’t the fastest on the market, and you may experience some lags or buffering, especially when connected to one of the long-distance VPN servers. For the best speed, stick with the Wiregurad protocol and local VPN servers.

Streaming: VyperVPN was able to unblock streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime, Peacock, ITVX, SkyTV, Apple TV+ and more.

Compatibility: The VPN app is compatible with the Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, and iOS operating systems. You are allowed 5 simultaneous connections.

Pricing: The one-year plan is available for $5.00/month, and monthly plans are available for $10/month. The one-year plan comes with a money-back guarantee for the first 30 days. There is no option for a free version.

Best VPN: Quick comparison chart 

We have put together a comparison of the noteworthy features of the 10 best VPN services in the table below to help you select the best VPN for your personal needs at a glance.

How we selected & tested VPNs on the list

We had a team of international experts complete thorough testing on a vast number of VPN services to allow users to make informed decisions about the best VPN for their personal needs and budget. Here is what our experts investigated:

Server locations tested:	USA, UK, Australia, and Germany
Protocols tested:	OpenVPN, Wireguard
Operating systems tested:	Android, Windows, macOS, iOS, Linux
Torrenting platforms tested:	uTorrent
Streaming platforms tested:	Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, (HBO) Max, Hulu, Vudu, ESPN+, Peacock, ITV
Customer support tested:	Live chat, email, how-to guides

We also evaluated and tested the VPNs in the following areas to ensure quality performance for all online activities.

• Speed. All VPNs on the list were speed-tested on a variety of server locations and checked for performance for online activities, including streaming, torrenting, and gaming.
• Security. We looked for VPNs with military-grade encryption, RAM-only servers, DNS & IP leak protection, and a Kill Switch protecting the VPN tunnel. We also prioritized VPNs with a verified no-logs policy.
• Server network. The number of servers, as well as their location around the world, was considered in our recommendations.
• Streaming. We tested how well the VPN could bypass the strong geo-blocks on popular streaming platforms like Netflix and Hulu, as well as their ability to provide buffer-free quality viewing.
• Torrenting. We looked into the VPN’s torrenting capability and download speed, including the availability of P2P servers.
• Devices. Compatibility with popular home devices like smartphones, desktops, laptops, routers, smart TVs, and gaming consoles was tested. The number of simultaneous connections allowed was also weighed into the equation.
• Cost. We looked for VPNs that provide a good value for the service rendered.

Security

The VPNs we selected all provide military-level AES 256-bit encryption to protect all internet traffic traveling through the VPN tunnel. We also chose VPNs that have an automatic kill switch, which blocks your Internet access should the VPN connection unexpectedly drop, preventing any data leaks. To be sure that an IP address isn’t accidentally leaked by a wayward DNS request, we looked for VPNs that provide effective DNS & IP leak protection.

We prioritized VPNs that utilize RAM-only servers. RAM, or Random Access Memory, erases all of your data from your previous sessions every time you restart your server, so there’s no information stored at all that can be shared with outside agencies or law enforcement.

In addition, we looked for VPNs that were able to effectively hide IP addresses which guarantees your online activities remain anonymous and can’t be tracked. It also protects you from cyber threats and hackers since they have no way to find your true location.

All of the VPNs on our list have a no-logs policy since great encryption alone is not enough to protect your privacy, as it only protects VPN users from your ISP seeing your activities. That’s why we selected VPNs that don’t keep any logs, preventing them from having any information to hand over to third parties or government agencies.

Speed

Speed is essential for all of your online activities. Without enough speed, your streaming will get interrupted by buffering and pixelation, your torrents will be slow, and your gameplay will be hindered by lag.

We speed-tested all of the VPNs and found the fastest VPNs on the market to ensure adequate speed and stable connections for streaming, VoID calls, torrenting, gaming, and other online activities.

Streaming

When using a VPN for streaming, you want a VPN fast enough to prevent buffering delays, pixelation, and dropped connections.

In addition, to bypass geo-blocks, your VPN provider needs to not only connect you to a remote server in the country where your content is available, but it also needs to hide your VPN usage. If the service detects that you are on a VPN, you will still get blocked.

We tested the VPN’s ability to bypass geo-blocks and provide smooth streaming on popular sites, including Netflix, BBC iPLayer, Hulu, HBO Max, and others.

Torrenting

For effective torrenting, not only does your VPN need top speeds for a fast download, but you will also need a VPN provider that has P2P and servers that are compatible with your preferred torrent client.

When sharing P2P files for torrenting, it’s always a good idea to use a secure VPN to protect yourself from cybercriminals and the prying eyes of governmental organizations.

All VPNs on our list are the best VPNs for torrenting that allow secure, fast, and dependable torrenting.

Simultaneous connections

We looked into how many devices can be connected on a single account so you can be sure that your entire household is covered at no extra cost.

Compatibility

The VPN apps we selected are all compatible with common operating systems, including iOS, macOS, Windows, Linux, and Android. That way, you can use it with your smart TV, gaming consoles, routers, mobile devices, laptops, and desktops.

Pricing

All of the VPNs in this article offer good value for the services provided and offer a money-back guarantee so you can see for yourself.

What is a VPN?

A VPN is a virtual private network that allows you to connect to a remote server and funnel all of your online activities through an encrypted tunnel. This hides your personal data and online activities from your ISP, the government, and cybercriminals, even when you are on public Wi-Fi networks.

You can also use your VPN to connect to a server in another region, creating a virtual location for you that appears to be real. Once your virtual location is established, you can access geo-restricted websites from that country, including streaming platforms, gaming sites, and more. You can even use it to access your bank accounts back home when you travel overseas.

How does a VPN work?

The way you typically connect to a website is your device sends a request through your Internet service provider to the DNS server for the site’s IP address. Once its request is fulfilled, the ISP sets up a connection between your device and the other device or server. All of the data passing between the two devices is visible to the ISP.

When you use a quality VPN service to connect to one of the VPN’s secured servers, all of your data passes through an encrypted VPN tunnel, which is indecipherable to your ISP, thereby keeping everything you do private and secure. It also makes your virtual VPN server look like your true location so you can access geo-restricted websites.

How to install a VPN

You don’t need to be a tech expert to set up a VPN on your device; all you need to do is follow this step-by-step guide.

1. Select one of the dependable, quality VPNs from this article.
2. Purchase a subscription and fill in any details requested.
3. Download the VPN app onto your device.
4. Open the app and select a server.

Why you need a VPN 

You need a VPN to have unrestricted, safe, secure, stable, and fast access to everything the Internet has to offer worldwide. Here’s what makes a VPN an indispensable tool for anything you want to do online.

• Faster connections. While there is some minimal speed reduction associated with VPNs, given the added time it takes for encryption and connecting to a remote server, it’s not going to affect your performance in the way ISP throttling will. Your ISP will throttle your connection if it sees you are using too much data, like during streaming or torrenting. A VPN hides your online activities from your ISP, so they have no reason to throttle your connection. It also allows you to avoid overcrowded servers during peak use.
• Safe browsing. A VPN sends all of your data through a secure, encrypted tunnel that protects you from online threats such as hackers and snoops. This is especially important when you are connected to public Wi-Fi, where you are most vulnerable to cybercriminals.
• Privacy protection. When you use a VPN with powerful encryption and a no-logs policy, your online activities can’t be seen by your ISP, government agencies, or cybercriminals, allowing you to keep your private business private.
• Bypass geo-blocks. A premium VPN can connect you to a remote server in another country and make it look like that’s your true location, giving you access to everything available exclusively in that place. This feature allows you to access streaming content, online games, and other websites without geographical restrictions getting in your way. It’s an essential tool for travelers who want to be able to access their bank and work accounts while abroad.

Can you really trust your VPN?

Not every VPN is trustworthy, so you need to be careful about which service you choose to use. If you want a VPN you can trust, here are the features you need to look for.

• No logs policy. Only subscribe to a VPN service that has a strict no-logs policy that is audited by an independent company.
• Privacy–friendly headquarters. Ideally, select one of the best VPNs outside the 14-eyes alliance. Avoiding the risk of the government spying on you or sharing data if they determine it’s in the interest of national security.
• Company ownership. Check for privacy breaches associated with your VPN’s parent company.
• Past performance. Chances are your VPN company has been asked to hand over data by law enforcement in the past, and it’s easy to find out if they had any logs to hand over.

Best VPNs for your device

Looking for the best VPN for your device? Here’s all the information you need to make an informed decision.

Best VPN for Windows:	Choose the best VPN for the Windows operating system.
Best VPN for Android:	Find a mobile VPN that works flawlessly with your phone or tablet.
Best VPN for Mac:	Select a provider that is designed to work with your Mac device.
Best VPN for iOS:	Get a great VPN for your Apple mobile devices.

Best VPNs for online privacy 

If privacy is a main concern, be sure your VPN has a verified no-logs policy and is based in a country without mandatory data retention laws. You can also look into privacy protection for specific activities such as torrenting or online banking. For more information, click on the links in the following articles.

Best VPNs for remote desktop:

Enjoy the convenience of remote access without the risk.

Top-rated VPNs for streaming

Not all VPN services have what it takes to get past the strong geo-blocks employed by streaming platforms like Netflix. In addition, most VPN providers don’t have the speed and unlimited bandwidth needed for flawless streaming. Click the link for the articles below to learn more details on which VPN is best for your favorite streaming service.

Best VPN for Netflix:	Unblock Netflix libraries worldwide with the help of a quality VPN.
Best VPN for Disney Plus:	Don’t let geo-restrictions prevent you from watching your Disney Plus favorites.
Best VPN for Hulu:	US travelers can continue to watch their favorite Hulu shows while abroad with a good VPN.
Best VPN for HBO:	Enjoy all the content that HBO has to offer from any location.

Best VPNs for gaming

Serious gamers turn to the best VPNs for gaming not only for online safety but also to improve their gameplay.

When playing games against strangers online, you want to make sure you are protected, and a VPN encrypts all of your private information so you aren’t vulnerable to cybercriminals. In addition, by hiding your true IP address, you are safe from DDoS attacks.

A good VPN can also lower your ping and lag by allowing you to find virtual servers close to home so your data doesn’t have far to travel. It also can improve your speed by avoiding ISP throttling and slowdowns from overcrowded servers.

Best VPN for Steam:	Enjoy flawless gaming while you play Steam with a premium VPN.
Best VPN for PUBG Mobile and Lite:	Improve your gaming experience for PUBG Mobile and Lite.
Best VPN for League of Legends:	Find the best VPN for League of Legends.
Best VPN for Valorant:	Learn which VPN works best for playing Valorant.
Best VPN for Mobile Legends:	Prevent lag and stay secure online while gaming.

Top VPNs for gambling

Are you looking for a way to enjoy online poker, slots, and sports betting, but geographical restrictions are getting in your way? Want to stay safe from hackers and criminals while you’re transferring money online? You can when you use one of the best VPNs for gambling found in the links to the articles below.

Best VPNs for Roobet:	Learn how to protect your privacy while you play Roobet from any country.
Best VPN for Rollbit:	Learn which VPN to use with Rollbit.

Best VPNs for crypto trading 

There is a lot of money to be made in crypto trading, and plenty of people want to get in on the action; however, trading platforms, exchanges, and cryptocurrency wallets are big targets for hackers. There are reports of individuals losing large amounts of money to cyber criminals on these platforms, so it’s important to protect yourself using the best VPNs for crypto trading on the market.

For more detailed information on VPNs that will protect your online privacy and secure your internet connection from hackers, take a look at the articles below:

Best VPNs for Binance:

Select a VPN with excellent privacy and security when using Binance.

Best VPNs for countries 

VPN users should keep in mind the country VPN combination that is best for their needs. The laws and regulations around torrenting, gambling, privacy, data retention, internet freedom, and infrastructure are different in every country and are a factor in choosing the best VPN.

Detailed information for common countries for safe and private VPN usage, whether you want to stream, torrent, gamble, or bypass firewalls, can be found in the articles below:

Best VPN for the US:	Enjoy all the best streaming content with a dependable US VPN.
Best VPN for China:	Use a VPN with first-rate security and privacy protection for China.
Best VPN for Montenegro:	Select the best VPN for Montenegro.

Top VPNs for cities & states 

If you are a frequent traveler, either for work or leisure, you’re going to want to find the best VPN to let you access content back home, including your bank account, work account, and favorite streaming sites.

In addition, when you’re on the road, you’re much more dependent on the less secure public Wi-Fi connections and its importance to protect your internet traffic from cyber criminals with a good VPN.

The following articles provide detailed information on the best VPN providers for popular travel destinations.

Best VPN for Boston:

Use a VPN to enjoy the culture, sports, and history of Boston.

Choosing between free and paid VPNs: What’s best for your needs?

In general, you get what you pay for, and that holds for VPNs. Even the best free VPN needs to make a profit somehow, and it’s typically in a way that is not to the users’ advantage, whether it’s unwanted ads or selling your browser history to a third party.

If you select the free version of a trusted VPN, your services, such as data, bandwidth, server network, and number of simultaneous connections, will be limited and unlikely to meet all your needs.

Here’s a look at how free VPN companies compare to paid services on key features.

• Speed. The free VPNs offer slower speeds, leading to buffering, pixelation, and dropped connections. Torrents are slow, and lag while gaming is a common problem.
• Servers. Free users will have access to a smaller number of servers with common overcrowding and high latency that affect performance for gaming and VoIP calls.
• Devices. Free services typically limit you to one device, so you won’t be able to cover both your mobile device and your home computer, and each family member will need their own account.
• Data. The no-cost services often place data caps, which get used up quickly when you are using a VPN for streaming or torrenting. Once your data limit is reached, that’s when many of the Freemium services will offer you an upgrade to their paid premium plan.
• Streaming. Even the best free VPN services are less reliable when it comes to getting past the tough geo-blocks on streaming platforms like Netflix.
• Torrenting. Many of the free VPNs do not permit torrenting.

While signing up with one of the free VPN companies is tempting, you are better off subscribing to the cheapest VPN on our list where you know your VPN traffic is secured and you won’t be bothered by data limits, pop-up ads, or having your browser history sold to the highest bidder.

If you can’t afford even a cheap VPN, sign up for a trusted service, cancel within the trial period, and get your money back.

FAQ

What is the best VPN of 2024?

Our top-pick all-around best VPN for 2024 in ExpressVPN. During testing, this VPN demonstrated excellence in every area we looked at, including speed, server network, security, privacy, compatibility, streaming, torrenting, gaming, and customer service.

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Are VPNs legal to use?

VPNs are legal to use in most countries, including the USA and Canada. There are a few countries that restrict or limit VPN usage, including Belarus, China, Egypt, Iraq, North Korea, Russia, Turkey, and the UAE. Check the local laws in these locations before you use a VPN there.

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Does a VPN slow down your connection?

A VPN will slow down your connection speeds, as the process of encryption and connecting to a remote server takes time.

As long as you subscribe to a premium VPN service, your speed while using a VPN will not interfere with any online activities, including gaming, streaming, or torrenting.

Using a VPN will also protect you from ISP torrenting, which will have a much bigger impact on your connection speeds than using a VPN.

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Is a VPN safe for banking?

A VPN is a secure way to conduct online banking, and its encrypted tunnel offers an extra layer of protection for your sensitive financial information.

When using a remote access VPN from another country, however, your connection may appear suspicious on the bank’s security system, and your account could get temporarily blocked. To avoid such a hold, it’s best to connect to one of the VPN’s local virtual servers.

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What are the downsides of free VPNs?

Free VPNs rarely have the security and privacy features you get with a subscription plan, and many will profit by selling your browser history to the highest bidder, making you even more vulnerable to hackers, malware, and phishing attempts.

You could opt for a free version of a more reliable service, but keep in mind the free version typically limits how many devices you can connect, server size, data, speed, and/or bandwidth, which impacts performance for streaming, torrenting, and gaming. It then encourages you to upgrade from the free version to a premium plan to get a high-performing VPN, which may not be the best value.

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How do I know if my VPN is working?

If you want to be sure your VPN is doing what it’s supposed to, visit the website WhatsMyIP or IPLocation before you connect to your VPN server and check the IP address. Then, connect to your VPN server and check your IP address again. If the IP address changes, then you know your VPN is working.

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Can you be tracked if you use a VPN?

Yes. It is possible to be tracked while using a VPN, but there are a few things you can do to make it extremely difficult for that to happen. First and foremost, select a VPN that has a verified no-logs policy as well as reliable DNS & IP leak protection.

To increase your anonymity, connect to your VPN via a Tor network, create a one-time use email account to set up your VPN account, and use a non-trackable payment method.

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Should I always use a VPN?

Yes, you should use a VPN every time you connect to the internet. Virtual private networks are the best line of defense against cyber attacks and hackers. Plus, when you use a VPN, you know all of your online activities will remain private and anonymous.

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Conclusion

A reliable VPN is an indispensable tool for navigating the Internet in 2024. Whether you’re concerned about security, streaming content from around the world, or simply maintaining your online anonymity, we’ve done the research for you and found the 10 best VPNs available in 2024, so all you need to do is choose the one that best matches your needs and budget from this list.

Based on our research and testing, ExpressVPN stands out as our top pick for the best VPN in 2024. With its impressive combination of speed, security, and user-friendly interface, ExpressVPN continues to set the standard for online privacy and accessibility.

Best VPN deals this week: