We tested the best VPNs and ranked them based on speed, security, streaming, and customer support, to help you decide which VPN is best for you.
The best virtual private networks (VPNs) encrypt your data and hide your IP address. This keeps your data secure and prevents others from stealing your passwords or spying on your online activity.
A VPN is particularly important when traveling over the summer or using a public Wi-Fi network, like at a coffee shop or a hotel. VPNs are also great for streaming because they unlock access (in some cases, with dubious legality) to content and sports events unavailable in your location. While VPNs are not a silver bullet for personal security, they can help keep your browsing and data safe.
What is the best VPN?
That said, there are many VPN options on the market that are worth your time — and, potentially, your dollar, should you choose to subscribe to them. When you are considering which VPN to choose, keep in mind that the longer subscription you choose, the cheaper the VPN will be.
Best VPN service
Price
Kill switch
Countries
Simultaneous connections
DNS leak detected?
NordVPN
$3.99 per month with a 2-year plan
Yes
111
10
X
ExpressVPN
$6.67 per month with a 1-year plan
Yes
105
Eight
X
Surfshark VPN
$2.19 per month with a 2-year plan
Yes
100
Unlimited
X
Private Internet Access
$2.19 per month with a 2-year plan
Yes
91
Unlimited
X
Proton VPN
$4.49/month on a 1-year, 2-year contract
Yes
100
1-10, varies by plan
X
How did we test the best VPNs?
We ran a series of tests in July 2024 on each VPN’s paid service to see how they compared.
The tests were performed with a broadband connection in the UK with an average starting speed, without a VPN, of 59.3 Mbps download and 18.02 Mbps upload. (Yes, they are terrible, but they are the best the UK currently offers where I live.)
The following speeds are in Mbps. We also tested for the presence of DNS leaks.
Please keep in mind that results may be different for you and vary from country to country, so the below should be considered a snapshot. Your speeds may also be impacted by your ISP provider and broadband subscription. For example, the starting speed is a snail’s pace compared to some US offerings.
The below results are not the exact speeds you should expect. You can instead use these results for a general idea of how your speeds could change with a VPN enabled. You should also remember that the further away the VPN server, the more your speed may be impacted. Speeds will typically be quicker when you connect to a local server, compared to selecting Australia, for example (unless you’re in Australia!).
Which is the right VPN for you?
Choose this top VPN service.
If you want.
NordVPN
The best VPN overall. NordVPN isn’t the cheapest VPN available, but it remains one of the most consistently fast and stable connection providers. It’s great for streaming and travel, too, with a great user interface on PC and mobile.
ExpressVPN
A robust, fast server network. ExpressVPN is a service I have used for years, and I find it invaluable on a daily basis. You can expect multi-platform support and relatively minor speed downgrades when you are streaming. However, it isn’t cheap.
Surfshark VPN
The least expensive top VPN. Surfshark is a consistent player in our top VPN lists, and for good reason. It might not always be the fastest, but for the price point, you can’t argue against its value for money.
Private Internet Access
Unlimited simultaneous connections. Private Internet Access is a great choice if you want a set-and-forget, affordable VPN able to support and protect as many devices as you like — but the interface won’t suit everyone.
Proton VPN
A variety of add-on features and the comfort of open-source security. Proton VPN also offers a free plan and is one of the most privacy-focused VPN services out there.
Factors to consider when choosing a VPN service
These are the most important factors and pointers to consider when selecting a new VPN service.
How we test VPNs
We tested and analyzed the best VPNs in 2024 using the following criteria to help you make an informed decision:
For a more extensive breakdown, check out our comprehensive VPN testing methodology page.
What is a VPN?
VPN is an acronym for virtual private network.
