Best VPN services in 2023

The best VPNs send your online data through secure servers. This encrypts the information so it's hard to decipher if it's ever intercepted. What's more, a VPN server also reassigns your device's IP address. This makes it look like you are in a different location than where you are. Both encryption and IP reassignment secure you from being tracked online and protects your overall privacy.

Our team at Android Central has spent several years testing and evaluating VPNs, along with other internet security solutions. We physically test dozens of VPN servers more than once each year and won't recommend one that we ourselves don't feel comfortable using.

Whether you need a VPN for torrenting,  streaming tv shows while traveling, or just want to be more secure while online, we've rounded up the best. Our guide has some helpful information on what to look for in a VPN, how we test VPNs, and answers to commonly asked questions. All of this is to help you find the best VPN for you. To get started, here are our top three VPN picks.

1. ExpressVPN: try the best VPN for up to 49% off + 3 months free

1. ExpressVPN: try the best VPN for up to 49% off + 3 months free
ExpressVPN comes in strong with the highest level of security, a bullet-proof no-log policy, excellent live chat support, and many international servers to unlock geo-restricted content worldwide.

It doesn't have the speed seen with NordVPN or Surfshark, but it's fast enough to support tv streaming and torrenting.

2. NordVPN: try this VPN with antivirus and ad blocking for 66% off

2. NordVPN: try this VPN with antivirus and ad blocking for 66% off
This VPN sends your data through two servers to double encrypt your information. You get added security with antivirus and ad blocking. Other perks include excellent tv streaming unblocking and Meshnet.

NordVPN has an interactive interface that is fun to use but can also be off-putting and overwhelming, especially, for new users. Try it out to see if it's right for you and get a 30-day- money-back guarantee.

3. Surfshark: great for beginners and pros alike for 50% less than our top pick

3. Surfshark: great for beginners and pros alike for 50% less than our top pick
Surfshark is the fastest VPN on our guide and also our cheapest, but it doesn't sacrifice quality. It uses a high encryption level, unblocks most streaming sites, and has servers in 100 countries.

This VPN isn't very customizable, and it doesn't have the best online support. But it's user-friendly which is good for beginners, plus its overall value can't be beat.

The best VPN services in 2023

Why you can trust Android Central Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

Here's our list of the absolute best VPN services right now. See how they compare to other VPN services and read our more in-depth reviews to learn more about each service's test results and advanced features.

The best VPN overall

ExpressVPN, the best VPN, running on PC, tablet, mobile, and more

(Image credit: ExpressVPN)
The single best VPN service for almost everyone

Specifications

Streaming sites unblocked: Netflix, Amazon, Disney, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, Hulu
Available on: Windows, Android, iOS, Mac, Linux (command-line only)
24/7 support: Yes
Refund period: 30 days
Number of servers: over 3,200
Server locations: 160
Countries: 94
Simultaneous connections: 5

Reasons to buy

+
Security and privacy are locked down 
+
Reliable connections
+
Lots of international locations
+
Superb 24/7 live chat customer service

Reasons to avoid

-
More expensive than some competitors
-
 Limited to five devices simultaneously 
-
Difficulty unblocking some Netflix regions
Subscribe if:

✔️ You want security you don't need to question: ExpressVPN is the best when it comes to protecting your online history and personal privacy.

✔️ You need lots of servers in lots of countries: you'll find ExpressVPN servers in 160 locations across 94 countries—more than almost any other provider.

✔️ You want access to the best customer service: Agents are always helpful and always available.

Don't subscribe if:

You are on a budget: ExpressVPN is one of the most expensive VPN services. If price is an issue, you might be better off with Surfshark or PIA.

You have lots of devices to connect: you're limited to only 5 simultaneous devices with this VPN.

You want to watch Netflix: this VPN struggled to consistently unblock Netflix in the US and the UK and doesn't unblock Canada at all.

Bottom line ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

🔒 ExpressVPN just can't be beaten when it comes to overall security. It has literally set the standard for other VPNs to reach.

Want to learn more?

Read our ExpressVPN review to see how ExpressVPN came out on top of our rigorous expert testing.

When it comes to being safe, ExpressVPN puts a lot into its apps to ensure your online history isn't traceable, your privacy isn't logged, and your online experience isn't interrupted by lag. We tested it on a lot of different devices and put it under a lot of pressure to make it leak data, even a little bit. But it held fast. What's more, we've been testing VPNs for many years, and ExpressVPN has always put on a great performance. In reality, we weren't expecting anything different this time around.

ExpressVPN uses the highest AES 256-bit encryption level available. This is on the same plane as militaries, governments, and even financial institutions. If by some chance your info is intercepted, it will be impossible to decode. ExpressVPN also takes your physical privacy seriously, too, so it doesn't keep any personal information on file.

Try ExpressVPN with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

This VPN service allows third-party audits of some of its services. Though it isn't as deep, or as frequent as other VPN services, the fact ExpressVPN allows someone else to peek at its service gives us more confidence in its overall security.

ExpressVPN is designed to more than simply shield your identity as you casually browse online. It has tools and features to help you with other important tasks. For example, when you connect to an ExpressVPN server, your device is given a different IP address. This is handy if you travel outside of your home country and need to access important files or apps that may be restricted because you are now on foreign soil. Connecting to a server close to home gets you around these geo-restrictions.

You can use ExpressVPN to tap into tv streaming services when you travel. It isn't the best for Netflix. When we tested it we couldn't always unblock Netflix in either the US or the UK. We were never able to access Netflix Canada. All other regions were okay, and we didn't have issues watching shows on other streaming sites. These include Amazon, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and Disney+. You can watch on more than one device, too, because ExpressVPN allows up to five simultaneous connections.

ExpressVPN checks most of the boxes when it comes to overall service. While it isn't perfect (no VPN is), it gets pretty close. However, it does charge a premium price for all its services. In fact, it's one of the most expensive VPN services we reviewed. Plus, it gets more costly as the years go by since it advertised prices are usually for the first year and for new users. Renewals jump up, sometimes, by 49%. You do get a 30-day money-back guarantee if you want to try it out and then change your mind.

Swipe to scroll horizontally
ExpressVPN test results:
AttributesNotesRating
DesignVery clean with everything placed exactly where you'd want it to be⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useAuto-connect and intuitive apps, plus a true Chrome VPN⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceFast enough for most uses, but only slightly above average for a VPN⭐⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingNot our top pick for this, especially since it struggles with many Netflix regions⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyMilitary-grade encryption and a powerful privacy policy⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer supportAlways available through live chat⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PriceOne of the most expensive VPN services out there⭐⭐⭐

Best VPN with antivirus

NordVPN securing multiple devices such as desktop, mobile, routers, and game consoles

(Image credit: NordVPN)
Excellent online security on all fronts

Specifications

Streaming sites unblocked: Netflix, Disney+, YouTube, BBC iPlayer, Amazon, Hulu
Available on: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux (CLI), routers and more
24/7 support: Yes
Refund period: 30 days
Number of servers: over 5,670
Server locations: 80
Countries: 60
Simultaneous connections: 6

Reasons to buy

+
Excellent security including antivirus
+
Reliable Netflix unblocking
+
Impressive connection speeds
+
Comes standard with Meshnet

Reasons to avoid

-
Not easy for beginners
-
Busy interface
-
Chrome VPN is merely a proxy 
Subscribe if:

✔️ You want added security: NordVPN double encrypts all data routed through it, plus includes antivirus and ad blockers.

✔️ You need a VPN for streaming: this VPN unblocks everything, everywhere, all the time.

✔️ You want to create a network for torrenting: NordVPN comes standard with Meshnet.

Don't subscribe if:

You're new to VPN: this app isn't the easiest to figure out, especially if you're a beginner. Try Surfshark or CyberGhost for an easier experience.

You want a simple interface: the interactive map feature makes it busy and a bit overwhelming for some users.

You need a Chrome VPN: the browser extension is just a proxy.

Bottom line ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

🔒 NordVPN includes added protections against malware and ad. It's also great for unblocking Netflix in every region, and most other streaming sites.

Want to learn more?

Check out our NordVPN review to learn more in-depth details of its complete security offerings.

When it comes to security, NordVPN is on par with ExpressVPN. It has had to work to get there and hasn't been on top as long as Express has. But we're seeing a positive trend as NordVPN is more consistent in passing our rigorous security tests. NordVPN does add a few tools that Express doesn't have. Firstly, it sends your data through two servers. This double-encrypts the information to make it twice as hard to decode. This also assigned an IP address that is impossible to trace back to you or your device.

Another tool NordVPN adds to its service is an antivirus. This malware protection tool is limited to online threats, and even more specifically to blocking malicious websites known to harbor threats. These could be malware files or phishing schemes. Both are blocked by NordVPN. This isn't as effective as true antivirus software, but it is a definite start. 

▶ Try NordVPN with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

NordVPN also includes ad blockers. Ad blockers strip websites you visit of advertisements. This helps the page look less cluttered but also cuts down on the risk of a dangerous ad that contains a malicious link.

For unblocking geo-restricted content, NordVPN is one of the best. In fact, it's the best for unblocking all Netflix in all regions. It also lets you watch shows on your Amazon Prime, Hulu, and Disney+ accounts when you're traveling away from home. You don't have to watch on a mobile device or a small laptop screen. NordVPN is compatible with game consoles and streaming devices like Roku, AppleTV, and Amazon Firestick.

We don't recommend using NordVPN's Chrome browser, though. This is a proxy rather than a true VPN client. This means your IP address will change, but it won't encrypt your info. This essentially allows the website you're on to potentially peel back the layers and see where you really are. It can be done if you use the Chrome browser in conjunction with the full NordVPN client. You'll need to be a little tech-savvy to get it to work since the apps already aren't the easiest for new users to figure out.

When signing up for NordVPN, you can opt to pay for just a single month of access or go with a one-year or two-year plan. The cost per month drops significantly as you commit to a longer period of time, with the best pricing being on the two-year plan. 

Swipe to scroll horizontally
NordVPN test results:
AttributesNotesRating
DesignFun design, but maybe a bit too busy for some⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useThe interactive map is cool, but not every's preference⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceOne of the fastest VPNs we tested⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingUnblocks all Netflix regions and so many other streaming sites⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyEvery bit as secure as ExpressVPN, plus includes malware protections⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer supportFriendly, professional, and very helpful⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PriceGood overall value for the level of protection you get⭐⭐⭐⭐

Best cheap VPN

Surfshark VPN works on desktops, laptops, tablest, phones, routers, and more

Best VPN service for those on a budget

Specifications

Streaming sites unblocked: Netflix, Disney+, Amazon, Hulu, YouTube, BBC iPlayer
Available on: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux (GUI), routers, and more
24/7 support: Yes
Trial period: 30 days
Number of servers: over 3,200
Server locations: 143
Countries: 100
Simultaneous connections: Unlimited

Reasons to buy

+
Fast VPN we tested
+
Unlimited device connections
+
Router connections available
+
Servers in over 100 countries

Reasons to avoid

-
Kill switch issues on Windows
-
Not the best for torrenting
-
Hard to navigate online support
Subscribe if:

✔️ You want a fast VPN: Surfshark left other VPNs in the dust during our speed tests with a top speed of 960Mbps.

✔️ You travel internationally: this VPN has more than 3,200 servers in an impressive 100 countries.

✔️ You need to save money: Surfshark is cheap without sacrificing service to be the best value.

Don't subscribe if:

You want unwavering security: we noticed some intermittent kill switch issues, especially on Windows.

You need quick access to support: it's hard to navigate the online support library when you're in a hurry.

You need a torrenting VPN: though Surfshark can handle torrents, it's not where it focuses its resources. We recommend PIA for this task.

Bottom line ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

🔒 Surfshark is fast and cheap and has servers in an impressive 100 countries. Just watch out for its kill switch when using it on Windows computers.

Want to learn more?

Read our Surfshark review to learn more about the kill switch issue and the speed tests we conducted.

Surfshark is the fastest VPN on our list. It topped other VPNs with an impressive 960 Mbps. To put this in perspective, you need 14 Mbps to stream Netflix on a single device, and 45 Mbps to run a VPN without experiencing a slowdown to your internet connection. Surfshark's speed means you can have so many devices connected at the same time, which is good since you get unlimited connections with this VPN.

With this much speed, Surfshark can handle streaming tv services. We tested it out with several streaming sites, and it unblocked everything from Netflix in every region to Amazon and Disney+. It also lets you watch the BBC iPlayer from your UK accounts.

▶ Try Surfshark with a 30-day money-back guarantee. 

These speeds are also good for torrenting, also known as P2P transfers. However, Surfshark hasn't put a lot of details into this service, so there are some hiccups getting it to work, and we saw some dips in speed when we tested it. 

For international travel, or tapping into geo-restricted content, Surfshark has over travel 3,200 servers in 100 countries. It will be hard to find one in an area you need. There are VPN services with more servers. For example, Private Internet Access has over 20,000 servers worldwide.

Surfshark, like most VPN clients, encrypts your data using the highest level of encryption available. It also has a solid no-log policy. Both of these help keep you both secure and private while using its VPN service. However, when testing Surfshark's overall security, we did notice a glitch with the kill switch on Windows. Usually, the kill switch will turn on when the VPN is compromised. This shields your data from being seen while the VPN connection is reestablished, or your internet connection is severed. We noticed that sometimes the kill switch turned on without notifying us of any VPN issue. Other times it said it was on, but we still detected small leaks. These issues didn't happen all the time, but enough that we feel it important to report on it.

Overall, Surfshark is secure enough and easy to use. Plus, it's the cheapest VPN service on our list, especially if you choose its 2-year plan. You can try it out for 30 days with its money-back guarantee.

Swipe to scroll horizontally
Surfshark test results
AttributesNotesRating
DesignSimple, intuitive, and not at all cluttered⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useGreat for beginners, everything you need is well placed⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceFaster than any of our preferred VPNs⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingNot amazing, but generally reliable⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacySome kill switch issues on Windows, though it isn't a consistent problem⭐⭐⭐
Customer supportThere are a lot of support documents online, but it's a chore to find the one you need⭐⭐⭐⭐
PriceThe best cheap VPN on the market⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Best Linux VPN

Use PIA to secure online connections from any device

Best security for Linux users, and good for everyone else, too

Specifications

Streaming sites unblocked: US Netflix, Amazon, Disney Plus, Hulu, YouTube
Available on: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux (GUI), routers, and more
24/7 support: Yes
Refund period: 30 days
Servers: over 20,000
Server locations: over 100
Countries: 84
Simultaneous connections: 10

Reasons to buy

+
Works on Linux
+
Dedicated tools for torrenting
+
Proven no-log privacy policy
+
Tons of servers

Reasons to avoid

-
Not an easy VPN to use
-
Below-average connection speeds
-
Doesn't have advanced security tools
Subscribe if:

✔️ You need a Linux VPN: it has a GUI Linux app, and works on Windows, Mac, and mobile devices, too.

✔️ You want a VPN for torrenting: PIA has torrent-friendly servers, supports port-forwarding, and includes other tools specific for P2P file sharing.

✔️ You need a VPN with proven privacy: this VPN has proven its no-log policy in court, twice.

Don't subscribe if:

You need an easy VPN: it's highly configurable with a rather cluttered interface that's overwhelming for even seasoned users.

You want fast connection speeds: though they are fast enough to support browsing, they aren't the best for streaming, gaming, and other high-speed tasks.

You want additional protections: PIA doesn't have the added tools included with NordVPN, like double encryption.

Bottom line ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

🔒 Private Internet Access is our pick for a Linux VPN, plus it has an impressive 20,000 servers in its network.

Want to learn more?

This in-depth PIA review looks closer at the customization options, how it works on Linux and mobile, and more information on the multiple validations of its privacy policy.

Private Internet Access – or PIA as it is more commonly known – is a good choice if you use a Linux computer. While other VPNs are compatible with Linux machines, PIA uses a GUI, or graphical user interface rather than a command line user interface (CLI). Regardless of the device you use this VPN service on, it is highly configurable, which makes it difficult for beginners. If you're new to VPN, we recommend either Surfshark or CyberGhost. Both have easier apps for beginners.

One area PIA excels is in torrenting. It has dedicated servers just for this purpose and adds additional safeguards to ensure your privacy and a secure connection while downloading or sharing files. One tool includes is port forwards. This helps speed up your connections so file transfers happen quicker.

▶ Try Private Internet Access on unlimited devices

Overall speeds are just okay. They are good for general browsing, but compared to other VPN services we tested, Private Internet Access clocked below-average speeds. You can still watch tv streaming services, but it won't be as good compared to using a VPN with faster speeds.

You will be extremely secure while using this VPN. It has a no-nonsense, no-log privacy policy. This has been challenged in court, twice. Both times, PIA was able to prove that it doesn't in any way keep a history of your online activity, nor does it log personal information. In short, it doesn't have anything on you for companies, law enforcement, or others to trace browser history back to you, or even prove you use the service at all.

If you need a US VPN, PIS is one of the best. For starters, it has over 20,000 servers worldwide. Many of these are located in popular US cities, so you can tap into North American content even if you're overseas. This includes tv streaming services. We checked to see which services PIA is able to unblock. For US content, it did well. We could watch Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and Disney+. It struggled a bit with other Netflix regions, and popular channels located in the UK and Australia.

For technical support, you're directed first to the Private Internet Access online support library. There are some good articles there that can help, but not everything is clear or easy to find. You can reach out via live chat to an agent for more personalized assistance. We've found that wait times are about 1-2 minutes and answers are helpful and clear to follow.

Swipe to scroll horizontally
Private Internet Access test results:
AttributesNotesRating
DesignA bit overwhelming and not easy to locate tools⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useNot easy for beginners because of all the setup and customization⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceLower-than-average connection speeds with both OpenVPN and WireGuard⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingUnblocks most streaming services, all servers optimized for torrenting⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyProven security and privacy⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer supportGreat live chat and email options, online articles can be overwhelming⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PriceLots of value for the money if you choose its 2-year plan⭐⭐⭐⭐

Best Chromebook VPN

CyberGhost working on Chromebook, desktops, and mobile devices

(Image credit: Cyberghost)
Best Chromebook VPN with user-friendly apps

Specifications

Streaming sites unblocked: US Netflix, Amazon, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, Hulu, YouTube
Available on: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux (CLI), Chromebook, routers, and more
24/7 support: Yes
Refund period: 45 days
Number of servers: over 9,260
Server locations: 116
Countries: 91
Simultaneous connections: 7

Reasons to buy

+
Over 9,200 servers worldwide
+
Automatic server matching
+
True Chromebook VPN
+
45-day money-back guarantee

Reasons to avoid

-
Struggles to unblock some streaming sites
-
Device limit
-
Not the best support site
Subscribe if:

✔️ You need a VPN for your Chromebook: this has a true Chromebook VPN rather than a proxy browser extension.

✔️ You want smart server connecting: this VPN automatically matches you up with the best server for the task you're working on.

✔️ You want a good guarantee: CyberGhost gives you a 45-day money-back guarantee.

Don't subscribe if:

You need a VPN for streaming: this app has trouble unblocking Netflix in several regions, and Disney+.

You need in-depth support: its online support library isn't the easiest to navigate and the articles tend to be too technical, or broad to be truly helpful.

You have lots of devices to protect: other VPNs put limits on the number of simultaneous connections while CyberGhost caps the number of devices you can install it on.

Bottom line ⭐⭐⭐⭐

🔒 CyberGhost has a good Chromebook VPN that encrypts your data, unlike a mere proxy extension. Its smart server matching is a cool addition to this VPN.

Want to learn more?

Read our CyberGhost review to learn more about its Chromebook protections.

CyberGhost works with many devices, but one that impresses is its Chromebook VPN. Other services provide a proxy browser extension, but CyberGhost has a true VPN that will keep you hidden as your work, study, or play online.

Chromebook isn't the only device CyberGhost is compatible with. You can use it on any Windows or Mac desktop, and it works with Android and iOS mobile devices. There is a Linux VPN available, but it is a command-line user interface (CLI). CyberGhost works on routers, too. All of its apps keep the user in mind and are designed to be intuitive and easy to use. In fact, it's one of the VPNs we recommend for beginners.

▶ Try CyberGhost VPN with a 45-day money-back guarantee

A cool tool the CyberGhost includes is automatic server matching. It asks what you want to use the VPN for and will find the best server for you to connect to. For example, this VPN has servers dedicated to tv streaming. Letting CyberGhost know that's what you want to do will results in you being shown the best streaming servers available.

Speaking of streaming services, CyberGhost is limited in this area. it struggles to unblock Netflix in several regions, and it doesn't give you access to DIsney+. You can watch the BBC iPlayer, Hulu, or Amazon Prime. CyberGhost is one of the few VPNs that can unblock HBO Max.

CyberGhost has a few additional security tools up its sleeve. It will block ads, trackers, and malicious sites. It automatically sends you to the HTTPS version of each site to ensure you are viewing the most secure option you can. On mobile, you can enable data compression to help save you some MBs while on the go.

One drawback to using CyberGhost is that you are limited to downloading the service to seven devices. Other VPN services put a cap on the number of simultaneous connections. This lets you tap into a VPN regardless of the device you're on. CyberGhost's device cap limits this a bit more. You can check it out to see if you're a fan. CyberGhost has a generous 45-day money-back guarantee, 15 days more than most VPN services.

Swipe to scroll horizontally
CyberGhost test results:
AttributesNotesRating
DesignIntuitively laid out and easy to customize⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of usePerfect for beginners and anyone else who prefers simplicity⭐⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceGood speeds to support torrenting, streaming, and online gaming⭐⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingStruggles to unblock some Netflix regions, and Disney+⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyVery secure and proven through third-party audits⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer supportAgents are helpful, but on-site articles are not as much⭐⭐⭐
PriceGood, competitive pricing⭐⭐⭐⭐

Best of the rest

Privado VPN is especially good for Chrome

Best free VPN with extra tools for paying users

Specifications

Streaming sites unblocked: Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney+. Hulu, HBO Max
Available on: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Smart TVs
24/7 support: Website and email
Refund period: 30 days
Number of servers: Over 300
Server locations: 63
Free locations: 13
Countries: 48
Simultaneous connections: 10

Reasons to buy

+
Reliable free version
+
Unblocks lots of streaming services
+
Fast connection speeds

Reasons to avoid

-
Doesn't allow audits
-
Few servers compared to top VPN services
-
A bit on the pricy side if you upgrade from free
Subscribe if:

✔️ You want a free VPN: though it is restricted compared to its paid subscription, it doesn't have the same limitations as other free VPNs.

✔️ You want to stream Netflix: for paid subscriptions, you can unblock Netflix in every region.

Don't subscribe if:

You need a VPN with proven security: Privido VPN doesn't allow independent audits of its services.

You want lots of server options: while other VPNs have thousands of servers, this one only has 300.

Bottom line ⭐⭐⭐⭐

🔒 Privado VPN is our if you want a free version, and it's great for unblocking Netflix. It just doesn't have the server network as our higher-ranked services.

Want to learn more?

This Privado VPN review further breaks down the benefits of its free program versus its paid subscription.

Privado VPN values user privacy so much that they don't put as many restrictions on their free VPN as other services do. In fact, some of the most important tools, like WireGuard encryption protocols and a decent number of server locations are available for both free and paid subscriptions.

If you want to stream tv services, you can do this with Privado's free VPN. It unblocked Netflix, Disney+, and the BBC iPlayer during our tests. Its paid subscription took this further and also gave us access to Hulu and HBO Max.

▶ Try PrivadoVPN absolutely free

Overall, Privado VPN doesn't have the same server network as other VPNs. Where other services have thousands of servers, Privado VPN only has 300. There are located in 63 total locations (48 countries), though only 13 of these are available to free users. Being limited in where you can connect means there's a chance you won't be able to get an IP address for a specific location if too many other users are vying for the same connection.

Privado VPN works on common devices. Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS are all compatible. Privado also works with smart TVs, which makes streaming shows more enjoyable. All its apps are uncluttered and simple, making it easy to navigate and learn about VPNs if you're a new user. There are some customization options if you want to dabble a bit in reconfigurability. It's better suited for the plug-and-play crowd.

We tested Privado along with dozens of other VPN services to see how secure they are. This service didn't show any DNS leaks, and its kill switch was quick to engage and protect our information when we forced the VPN to drop. In theory, it protects your privacy, too, with a no-log policy. However, Privado doesn't allow any independent audits of its claims or services, so it's impossible to verify its full security potential beyond what we can do in our test labs.

For questions, you can reach out to support personnel via Privado's online email form. There isn't a lot of other on-site help beyond there. There are some support documents, but they are outdated and hard to follow if you can even find what you need in the first place.

Swipe to scroll horizontally
Privado VPN test results:
AttributesNotesRating
DesignBeautiful and colorful despite being simple⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useEasy to use and well laid out⭐⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceDecent speeds, but definitely lacking in the available server area⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingMost everything is easily unblocked⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyIt looks good, and we can verify a few of its claims, but it doesn't allow thorough audits at all⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer supportGood email support, no live agents and on-site help is lacking⭐⭐⭐
PriceIt's free, and that can't be beat⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Proton VPN on a plethora of devices

A mid-level VPN with strong security

Specifications

Streaming sites unblocked: Netflix, Disney, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, YouTube
Available on: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux (GUI), routers, and more
24/7 support: No
Refund period: 30 days - free version available
Number of servers: over 2,900
Server locations: 85
Countries: 67
Simultaneous connections: 10

Reasons to buy

+
Linux GUI app
+
Unlimited bandwidth for free users
+
Solid kill switch

Reasons to avoid

-
Expensive
-
Below-average connection speeds
-
Needs better customer support
Subscribe if:

✔️ You want a rock-solid kill switch: despite our best efforts to break it, Proton's kill switch stayed strong.

✔️ You need a good free VPN: the free option doesn't cap your monthly usage and gives you access to over 100 servers.

Don't subscribe if:

You need fast connections: overall connection times are below average compared to all VPNs we tested.

You want good customer support: 24/7 support isn't available and online articles are overly complicated.

Bottom line ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

🔒 Proton VPN isn't very fast, but it does have a solid kill switch and a good free VPN option.

Want to learn more?

Read our full Proton VPN review to learn what's included with its free version and what it limits.

ProtonVPN is based in Switzerland, which means that it benefits from additional strong legal protection. Switzerland offers some of the world's strongest privacy laws, and remains outside the EU and U.S. jurisdiction, meaning that it can't be coerced into spying on any users.

There are strong no-logging policies, DNS leak protection, and a kill switch, and it can be used as an always-on VPN that automatically reconnects to a server should the connection be interrupted at any point. ProtonVPN may not offer the most servers or have them spread out in the most locations, but if there is one thing that the company knows, it's privacy and security. ProtonVPN is designed to ensure that no one can eavesdrop on your connection, and it does so by routing your connection through fully encrypted tunnels.

▶ Try Proton VPN for free

The NetShield feature, available on all platforms, is a DNS-based web filter that protects you from malware, ads, and trackers. It's a little more configurable than similar services, and you're able to choose whether you only block malware, or want to stop ads and trackers as well. It isn't as effective as a full antivirus suite, but it is helpful in reducing malware attacks where it counts the most.

Before you get started with the paid service, you can always try ProtonVPN out for free. It is worth noting that the company does prioritize paid users during peak times, so on a free plan you may notice slower speeds when more people are online. However, even paid users won't have the fastest VPN at their fingertips.

In our speed tests, Proton VPN came in below average for connection speeds. It's still fast enough to support casual browsing and maybe a single device watching a movie in 4K from a streaming service. For faster speeds, we recommend Surfshark, which topped the charts with its speeds, or NordVPN which came pretty close.

Whether you end up wanting a free or paid plan, Proton is definitely a VPN provider worth considering. You can give the paid plan a try without any risk since you do have a 30-day money-back guarantee to decide if it's the right VPN for you.

Swipe to scroll horizontally
Proton VPN test results:
AttributesNotesRating
DesignBeautiful dark mode⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useMobile is easier to use than desktop apps⭐⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceVariation between apps, and not the best speeds⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingGood at unblocking most streaming sites, but this is only for paid users⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyUses strong encryption plus has a few add-ons to further protect you online⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer supportSupport docs are pretty technical, and agents aren't easy to get ahold of⭐⭐⭐
PriceNot the cheapest and not the most expensive plan, but it does have a free plan⭐⭐⭐⭐

Windscribe on a laptop

(Image credit: Shutterstock)
A VPN for all your devices, plus a good free option

Specifications

Streaming sites unblocked: Netflix, Amazon, Disney, BBC iPlayer
Available on: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux (CLI), routers and more
24/7 support: No
Refund period: 3 days - free version available
Number of servers: over 400
Server locations: 112
Countries: 69
Simultaneous connections: Unlimited

Reasons to buy

+
Unlimited device connections
+
Browser extensions
+
Open-source apps

Reasons to avoid

-
Terrible refund policy
-
No security audits
-
24/7 support isn't available
Subscribe if:

✔️ You want to connect all your devices: this VPN doesn't put any limits to the number of devices or simultaneous connections.

✔️ You need browser extensions: Windowscribe has dedicated extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and even Opera.

Don't subscribe if:

You need a comfortable time frame to decide to buy: Windscribe only has a 3-day money-back guarantee whereas other VPNs offer a minimum of 30 days.

You want an audited VPN: this service doesn't allow independent audits of its services.

Bottom line ⭐⭐⭐⭐

🔒 Windscribe gives you unlimited connections to use on all your devices, and keeps the client continually running for maximum security. You only get a 3-day refund period to decide if you want to keep it.

Want to learn more?

Learn more in this Windscribe review about its dedicated browser extension and its short refund window.

One of Windsribe's best features is its unlimited connections. You can connect every desktop, laptop, cell phone, tablet, and even your router, plus keep them connected all the time. It proved effective at keeping DNS leaks at bay in our in-house security tests and has a solid kill switch.

Windscribe has browser extensions for popular web browsers, such as Chrome, Firefox, and Opera. These let you turn on and off the VPN within the browser itself. This is handy if you don't want to keep the VPN on at all times. Simply turn it on before you navigate to a specific website and you're protected.

Try Windscribe VPN for free

This VPN comes with a few extra security features to further secure your online experience. It has an ad blocker to remove advertisements from the websites you visit. However, you can configure this VPN to also block trackers, malware, fake news, and even porn.

When it comes to speed, Windscribe is in the fast camp. Between our last two speed tests, Windscribe jumped from a mere 490 Mbps to a whooping 700 Mbps. We're excited to see if Windsribe continues this momentum. For now, it's ranked among the fastest, which means it easily supports tv streaming, torrenting, and other tasks where speed is key.

Windscribe VPN uses open-source code. This allows anyone to look at it, find possible kinks, and help Windwscribe fix vulnerabilities to make it more secure. We like that Windscribe wants to be transparent in this way, and is open to suggestions. However, it doesn't allow formal audits of any part of its service, which means there isn't a way to validate its security and privacy claims.

There is no 24/7 live support available with this VPN. You can reach out via email, or send a message through the company's Subreddit. Either way, you'll have to wait for a response. You can try out Windscribe's free VPN to get a feel of how it works before committing to a paid service. It will be limited, but you can get a general idea of the configuration and how to navigate the client. If you do decide to buy the full package, Windscribe is a bit more expensive than most VPN services.

Swipe to scroll horizontally
Windscribe test results:
AttributesNotesRating
DesignIt's simple, yet cluttered, too⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useIntuitive, but feels complicated for beginners⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceGood speeds when using WireGuard⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingOnly has issues unblocking Netflix Japan, everything else comes in clear⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyOpen-source and open to fix suggestions, doesn't allow independent audits⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer supportOn-site articles are helpful, but there is no live chat available⭐⭐⭐
PriceFree plan available, but paid subscriptions are expensive⭐⭐⭐

VPN on a desktop, phones, tablets, a laptop and router

An independently audited VPN with lots of speed

Specifications

Streaming sites unblocked: US Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, YouTube, Hulu
Available on: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux (GUI), routers and more
24/7 support: Yes
Refund period: 30 days
Number of servers: over 2,200
Server locations: 75
Countries: 50
Simultaneous connections: Unlimited

Reasons to buy

+
Impressively fast speeds
+
Independently audited
+
Dedicated Linux GUI

Reasons to avoid

-
Usability issues
-
Struggles to unblock some streaming sites
-
Expensive renewal pricing
Subscribe if:

✔️ You want a VPN with a proven record: this service allows independent audits.

✔️ You need fast speeds: it's one of the fastest VPNs, period.

Don't subscribe if:

You want a clean interface: there are definite usability issues with a VPN that isn't as polished as other services.

You want to stream Netflix: IPVanish unblocked US Netflix but isn't as successful with other regions.

Bottom line ⭐⭐⭐⭐

🔒 IPVanish is a fast VPN that allows independent audits to verify its security and privacy claims. It is expensive compared to other VPN subscriptions.

Want to learn more?

Read our IPVanish review to learn the results of its independent audits.

IPVanish is a provider you won't want to rule out. It offers more than 1,900 servers spread across 75 different locations, allows for all of your devices to be connected at the same time, and boasts an impressive 40,000 shared IP addresses. You can also bundle IPVanish with SugarSync cloud storage for just a few bucks extra if that's something you need.

There are apps for all the popular platforms, including Roku, Fire TV, Mac, Android, iOS, Windows, and more. They aren't bogged down with useless features and make connecting to the service the fastest and easiest thing to do from within it. In fact, the app has one of the best user interfaces when it comes to the map of servers, making it easy to get connected to a server in the desired location.

Throughout testing IPVanish we noticed the servers were almost always up and running, the download speeds were consistent, and slightly above most of the others we tested. A network expansion in early 2021 saw some servers updated to better hardware and 25Gbps network cards, which will only help things in this department, too.

One odd thing that was noticed was that not every server actually existed where it was said to be, which could be problematic for those looking to unblock content in a specific area. This is only a minor thing, but something that's absolutely worth considering. We also could not get IPVanish to unblock BBC iPlayer or Amazon Prime Video, so it may not be the best streaming VPN choice, though it does work for Netflix and Disney+.

Another area where IPVanish excels is customer support. You can get support at any time since the company offers 24/7 coverage, and agents can be reached right from within the iOS and Android apps. It really doesn't get easier than this, and the company recently moved from a 7-day to a 30-day money-back guarantee. Give our IPVanish review a read and then get started today.

Swipe to scroll horizontally
IPVanish VPN test results:
AttributesNotesRating
DesignLook cool and fresh, especially in dark mode, but is still complicated⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useComplex interface and some overall usability issues⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceIncredibly fast speeds, especially using WireGuard⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingMost streaming sites can be unblocked without a problem, there are a few oddballs, though⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyHigh encryption levels and thoroughly audited⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer supportSupport articles all tend to say the same thing and aren't that helpful⭐⭐⭐
PriceExpensive, even when committing for 2 years, but renewal pricing is even more shocking⭐⭐⭐

Using Mullvad on a laptop

10. Mullvad

A relatively new VPN with an eye for security

Specifications

Streaming sites unblocked: None
Available on: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux (GUI), routers and more
24/7: No
Refund period: 30 days
Number of servers: over 650
Server locations: 72
Countries: 43
Simultaneous connections: 5

Reasons to buy

+
You want complete anonymity
+
Thoroughly audited
+
Fast connection speeds

Reasons to avoid

-
Doesn't support tv streaming at all
-
No 24/7 live support
-
Apps aren't the most fleshed out
Subscribe if:

✔️ You want to remain completely anonymous: Mullvad has payment options that don't require you to provide any personal information.

✔️ You want a VPN that is audited: everything is verified from its infrastructure to its apps to its privacy policy.

Don't subscribe if:

You want to watch tv: Mullvad doesn't support tv streaming at all.

You want a better-designed app: they work, but the applications look dated and very basic.

Bottom line ⭐⭐⭐⭐

🔒 Mullvad is reliable when it comes to security and privacy, but it isn't the best if you want to do more than simply browse online.

Want to learn more?

Read the Mullvad review to see why we feel it deserves a place on our best VPN list.

Mullvad is a relatively new VPN having launched just 14 years ago. However, it does impress with its security and privacy. It allows third-party audits of every aspect of its client and service to prove it is secure. This includes its no-log policy, and Mullvad is one of the best when it comes to securing your personal information.

This VPN lets you pay with cash (like, stuff it in an envelope and send it in), or with crypto, so you don't have to hand over any personal information whatsoever in order to open an account or use this VPN. But, if you do sign up with Mullvad the old-fashioned way, it still will keep your information private, and never share it with another company, or turn it over to law enforcement agencies.

Try Mullvad risk-free for 30 days

When it comes to performance, Mullvad has impressive connection speeds. It capped out at 770 Mbps during our last round of testing, though this is down from 820 Mbps from previous tests. It's still nearly over 36% faster than the average VPN speed. You can connect five devices to the VPN at the same time, and these speeds will support them without you experiencing slowdown or buffering.

Mullvad doesn't have the server networks of our top picks. However, 650 servers worldwide is an impressive start. They are in 72 different locations and in 43 countries. These are in high-traffic areas, so if you need to work around geo-restrictions, most of these can be handled by Mullvad.

The interface of this VPN is pretty basic and underwhelming. There are functions that are subpar when compared to other VPNs that have been in the game longer. For example, you can't watch any tv streaming services with this client. We tried, but nothing was unblocked. It's also not recommended torrenting. In fact, Mullvad just recently announced it is removing port forwarding.

Another big downfall of Mullvad is the lack of live support. But, you can send in an email request for help and expect a quick response. We found these to be well written, so it's easy to follow step-by-step instructions or understand the answer to tough questions. Overall, Mullvad is simple and basic, and not for everyone. But, we're excited to watch it grow and possibly become a bigger contender in the VPN industry.

Swipe to scroll horizontally
Mullvad test results:
AttributesNotesRating
DesignBasic design, no extra bells or whistles and it shows little care in the details⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useNot the best for beginners, but not a lot of customization, either