Looking for the best VPN service in 2025? Whether you want to browse safely, unblock your favorite streaming platforms, or protect your data on public Wi-Fi, we've got you covered. After extensive testing, we've selected the 10 best VPN providers to help you choose the right one for your needs.
Use the finest VPNs, chosen specifically for you, to browse the web privately and securely. Streaming, gaming or traveling? You might want a VPN. Our expert testing team has spent thousands of hours evaluating these top VPNs for privacy, speed and more.
What is a VPN?
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) creates a secure, encrypted tunnel between your device and the internet. It hides your IP address, making your online actions virtually untraceable. VPNs are essential for anyone who values online privacy or wants to bypass internet restrictions.
Why Do You Need a VPN?
Protect Your Privacy
Prevent websites, advertisers, and even your ISP from tracking your online activity.
Stay Safe on Public Wi-Fi
VPNs encrypt your connection on public networks, keeping hackers at bay.
Access Geo-Restricted Content
Stream Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and more from anywhere in the world.
Avoid Bandwidth Throttling
Bypass restrictions imposed by ISPs on certain types of traffic.
Top 10 Best VPN Services of 2025
NordVPN – The Best VPN Overall
ExpressVPN – Best VPN for Speed
Surfshark – Best Cheap VPN for Unlimited devices
CyberGhost – Best VPN for Beginners
ProtonVPN – Best VPN for Privacy
Private Internet Access (PIA) – Best VPN for Torrenting
IPVanish – Best for Power Users
Mullvad – Best for Extreme Privacy
TunnelBear – Best Free VPN for Simplicity
NordVPN
9.5
Exceptional speeds over the NordVPN network and a host of additional settings. Learn more about NordVPN
Best Features
- Built-in malware protection
- 30-day refund promise
- Chrome & Firefox extensions
- Block trackers and intrusive ads
- Servers in 60 countries
73% discount + 3 months extra
ExpressVPN
9.2
Premium VPN Provider known for delivering consistently fast speeds and rock-solid security.. Learn more about ExpressVPN
Best Features
- RAM-only Trusted Servers for enhanced privacy
- Excellent performance on global streaming platforms
- Advanced encryption with zero-knowledge DNS
- 24/7 live chat support and intuitive apps
Surfshark
8.8
Fast VPN built for beginners. Stability and speed with exclusive Surfshark VPN technology.. Learn more about Surfshark
Best Features
- Blazing-fast speed results
- Day and night customer support
- Internet without ads, trackers or cookiepop-ups
- No collection of data
CyberGhost
8.2
Good speeds & strong privacy features. Token-based dedicated IP system. 24/7 live chat support.. Learn more about CyberGhost
Best Features
- Automatic Wi-Fi protection
- Chrome & Firefox extensions
- No web logs & no IP/DNS leaks
- Servers in 90 countries
ProtonVPN
8.9
Built by the team behind ProtonMail with a privacy-first VPN service for transparency and security at its core.
Best Features
Private Internet Access
8.9
A strong reputation for reliability, customization, and affordability..
Best Features
- Huge global server network
- Open-source apps and protocol flexibility
- Strong P2P and torrenting support
- Highly configurable with detailed control
IPVanish
8.7
Robust security features, self-owned server network, and fast, reliable connections.. Learn more about IPVanish
Best Features
- Self-Owned and Operated Server Network
- Strong Encryption and Security
- SOCKS5 Proxy Included
- 24/7 Customer Support
Mullvad
No rating
Unique privacy-focused VPN provider that does not require an email address or personal data to sign up..
Best Features
- No account or email required to sign up
- Flat-rate pricing - always $5/month
- Full transparency with open-source apps
- Based in Sweden with strong privacy laws
TunnelBear
8.6
Friendly, approachable VPN aimed at casual users and beginners..
Best Features
- Simple, user-friendly interface
- Free plan available for testing
- Independent security audits for transparency
- GhostBear mode to bypass censorship
The Best VPNs Compared & Reviewed
| NordVPN | ExpressVPN | Private Internet Access | ProtonVPN | Surfshark | IPVanish | CyberGhost | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Logo |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Overall Rating |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Privacy | 8.8 | 9.2 | 9.7 | 9.5 | 8.7 | 8.8 | 8.6 |
| Speed | 9.7 | 9.7 | 9.7 | 8.6 | 9.1 | 9.8 | 8.5 |
| Server Locations | 9.7 | 9.9 | 9.5 | 9.7 | 9.5 | 8.6 | 9.6 |
| Torrenting | 9.0 | 9.3 | 9.7 | 9.2 | 8.6 | 9.2 | 8.6 |
| Streaming | 9.2 | 9.9 | 6.1 | 5.2 | 9.0 | 8.9 | 7.5 |
| Security | 9.1 | 8.6 | 9.3 | 9.8 | 8.3 | 8.5 | 7.3 |
| User Experience | 9.3 | 9.9 | 9.5 | 7.8 | 8.5 | 8.1 | 8.1 |
| Device Compatibility | 8.9 | 9.9 | 9.5 | 7.9 | 9.1 | 8.0 | 8.3 |
| Pricing | $2.99/mo over 27 months | $4.99/mo over 28 months | $2.03/mo over 28 months | $4.99/mo over 24 months | $1.99/mo over 28 months | $2.19/mo over 24 months | $2.03/mo over 28 months |
| Website | Visit site | Visit site | Visit site | Visit site | Visit site | Visit site | Visit site |
1. NordVPN - The Best VPN Overall
NordVPN is one of the most reputable and widely used VPN services in the world. Known for its powerful combination of privacy features and fast performance, it excels in virtually every category. Its easy-to-use apps, advanced security tools, and proven no-logs policy make it ideal for both beginners and experienced users.
Servers: 5,500+ in 60 countries
Best for: Streaming, privacy, and torrenting
Features: Double VPN, Threat Protection, No-logs policy, Kill Switch, Onion over VPN
Price: From $3.29/month
NordVPN
Full NordVPN review
Overall rating: 9.5
Privacy
8.8/10
Speed
9.7/10
Server Locations
9.7/10
Torrenting
9.0/10
Streaming
9.2/10
Security
9.1/10
User Experience
9.3/10
Device Compatibility
8.9/10
Pros
- Excellent speed and performance
- Works with Netflix, Hulu, and more
- Strong security and privacy credentials
Cons
-
Desktop app can feel a bit bulky
-
No free version
2. ExpressVPN – Best VPN for Speed
ExpressVPN is a premium VPN service known for its blazing-fast speeds and exceptional ability to unblock streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. It offers a sleek interface, strong encryption, and rock-solid privacy features, making it ideal for both new users and power users who need performance and reliability.
Servers: 3,000+ in 94 countries
Best for: Speed and unblocking streaming services
Features: TrustedServer technology, AES-256 encryption, Kill Switch, Split Tunneling
Price: From $6.67/month
ExpressVPN
Full ExpressVPN review
Overall rating: 9.2
Privacy
9.2/10
Speed
9.7/10
Security
8.6/10
Streaming
9.9/10
User Experience
9.9/10
Server Locations
9.9/10
Torrenting
9.3/10
Device Compatibility
9.9/10
Pros
- Fast, consistent speeds
- Excellent streaming and geo-unblocking performance
- Strong security with RAM-only servers
Cons
-
More expensive than competitors
-
Only 5 simultaneous device connections
3. Surfshark – Best Cheap VPN for Unlimited Devices
Surfshark is an affordable yet feature-rich VPN that allows unlimited device connections, making it a top choice for families and users with multiple devices. Despite its low price, it delivers strong privacy features, good speeds, and excellent compatibility with streaming platforms.
Servers: 3,200+ in 100 countries
Best for: Unlimited devices and families
Features: CleanWeb ad blocker, Whitelister (split tunneling), MultiHop, Kill Switch
Price: From $2.49/month
Surfshark
Full Surfshark review
Overall rating: 8.8
Privacy
8.7/10
Speed
9.1/10
Server Locations
9.5/10
User Experience
8.5/10
Streaming
9.0/10
Security
8.3/10
Torrenting
8.6/10
Device Compatibility
9.1/10
Pros
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- User-friendly apps with robust privacy tools
- Unblocks most major streaming platforms
Cons
-
Occasional slowdowns on distant servers
-
Based in the Netherlands (14 Eyes jurisdiction)
4. CyberGhost - Best VPN for Beginners
CyberGhost offers one of the largest server networks in the industry and a highly intuitive interface that's perfect for VPN beginners. With dedicated servers for streaming and torrenting, it's easy to use yet powerful enough for more advanced needs.
Servers: 9,000+ in 90 countries
Best for: Beginners and dedicated streaming servers
Features: NoSpy servers, ad blocker, streaming-optimized servers, automatic kill switch
Price: From $2.03/month
CyberGhost
Full CyberGhost review
Overall rating: 8.2
Privacy
8.6/10
Speed
8.5/10
Server Locations
9.6/10
Torrenting
8.6/10
Streaming
7.5/10
Security
7.3/10
User Experience
8.1/10
Device Compatibility
8.3/10
Pros
- Huge server network
- Optimized servers for specific streaming platforms
- Affordable long-term plans
Cons
-
Apps can feel clunky on some platforms
-
Not as customizable as competitors
5. ProtonVPN – Best VPN for Privacy
Built by the team behind ProtonMail, ProtonVPN is a privacy-first VPN service designed with transparency and security at its core. It offers a generous free plan and advanced security features like Secure Core routing and open-source apps.
Servers: 2,900+ in 70+ countries
Best for: Privacy advocates
Features: Open-source apps, Secure Core, kill switch, Tor over VPN
Price: Free plan available; premium from $4.99/month
ProtonVPN
Overall rating: 8.9
Privacy
9.5/10
Speed
8.6/10
Security
9.8/10
Streaming
5.2/10
User Experience
7.8/10
Server Locations
9.7/10
Torrenting
9.2/10
Device Compatibility
7.9/10
Pros
- Excellent privacy and security practices
- Transparent, open-source codebase
- Free plan with no data limit
Cons
-
Fewer streaming options compared to others
-
Premium pricing slightly higher
6. Private Internet Access (PIA) – Best VPN for Torrenting
PIA is a long-time favorite among power users and privacy enthusiasts. With the largest server network on this list and powerful customization features, it offers great value and solid torrenting support.
Servers: 35,000+ in 84 countries
Best for: Customization and torrenting
Features: MACE ad blocker, advanced kill switch, OpenVPN & WireGuard support
Price: From $2.19/month
Private Internet Access
Overall rating: 8.9
Privacy
9.7/10
Speed
9.7/10
Security
9.3/10
Streaming
6.1/10
User Experience
9.5/10
Server Locations
9.5/10
Torrenting
9.7/10
Device Compatibility
9.5/10
Pros
- Massive server selection
- Deep customization options
- Great for torrenting and P2P
Cons
-
US-based (may concern privacy-conscious users)
-
Interface is functional but not the most modern
7. IPVanish – Best for Power Users
IPVanish stands out for offering unmetered connections, meaning you can use it on as many devices as you want. It’s a great option for tech-savvy users who appreciate customization and control.
Servers: 2,200+ in 75+ countries
Best for: Power users who want control
Features: SOCKS5 proxy, unmetered connections, configurable settings
Price: From $3.33/month
IPVanish
Full IPVanish review
Overall rating: 8.7
Privacy
8.8/10
Speed
9.8/10
Server Locations
8.6/10
Torrenting
9.2/10
Streaming
8.9/10
Security
8.5/10
User Experience
8.1/10
Device Compatibility
8.0/10
Pros
- Unlimited device usage
- Fast speeds for streaming and P2P
- Strong encryption and protocol options
Cons
-
Based in the US (jurisdiction concerns)
-
No anonymous payment options
8. Mullvad – Best for Extreme Privacy
Mullvad is a niche VPN service focused entirely on privacy and anonymity. It doesn’t require an email to sign up, doesn’t track any usage, and only charges a flat fee with no upsells or long-term plans.
Servers: 800+ in 40+ countries
Best for: Extreme privacy
Features: Anonymous account creation, no email required, fixed pricing, open-source clients
Price: $5/month
Pros
- Truly anonymous signup
- Transparent and privacy-respecting
- Consistent, flat pricing
Cons
-
No live chat support
-
Interface can feel minimalistic
9. TunnelBear – Best Free VPN for Simplicity
TunnelBear is one of the most beginner-friendly VPNs, offering a cute and intuitive interface with strong privacy protections. It's a great choice for casual users or anyone trying VPNs for the first time.
Servers: 2,600+ in 47 countries
Best for: Simplicity and beginners
Features: GhostBear obfuscation, free plan available, strong encryption, audit transparency
Price: From $3.33/month
Pros
- Very easy to use
- Independent security audits
- Free plan to test before upgrading
Cons
-
Limited advanced settings
-
Monthly data cap on free version
How to Choose a Good VPN
No-logs Policy: Ensures your browsing activity is not recorded.
Encryption: Look for AES-256 encryption as standard.
Streaming Support: If you want to stream, make sure your VPN reliably unblocks content.
Device Support: Make sure the VPN works on Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and more.
Customer Support: 24/7 live chat support is ideal.
Money-Back Guarantee: Look for a 30-day guarantee or free trial.
How We Test VPNs
-
Speed Tests
Local and international connection tests.
-
Streaming
Checking compatibility with Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Disney+.
-
Security Tests
DNS leak, IP leak, and WebRTC leak protection.
-
Privacy Audit
Evaluation of the provider's logging policy.
-
Ease of Use
Testing apps on desktop and mobile.
-
Support Quality
Speed and knowledge of customer support agents.
FAQs
Yes, VPNs are legal in most countries. They are often used by individuals and businesses alike to protect sensitive data and ensure secure communication.
However, there are a few countries where VPN use is restricted or regulated (such as China, Iran, and Russia). It's important to verify local laws and regulations before using a VPN in those regions.
Using a VPN introduces encryption and rerouting of traffic, which can cause a slight reduction in internet speed.
However, top-tier VPNs like NordVPN and ExpressVPN are optimized for speed and maintain excellent performance with minimal slowdown. Server proximity, protocol choice, and server load can all affect your actual speeds.
Yes! Many premium VPNs are specifically optimized to bypass geo-blocks imposed by streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+.
VPNs such as Surfshark, NordVPN, and ExpressVPN offer dedicated streaming servers that reliably grant access to content libraries from different countries.
Free VPNs can be risky. Some may log your activity, serve intrusive ads, or even sell your data to third parties. While a few reputable services like ProtonVPN and TunnelBear offer limited free plans with strong security, most free options lack transparency and are not recommended for long-term use.
Always research the provider's privacy policy before using any free VPN.
The best VPNs for torrenting offer strong encryption, a no-logs policy, and support for P2P traffic. NordVPN, Surfshark, and Private Internet Access (PIA) are all solid choices.
These VPNs provide fast speeds, specialized torrenting servers, and features like kill switches and leak protection to keep your identity safe while downloading torrents.
Conclusion
Choosing the right VPN comes down to your personal needs. For most users, NordVPN or Surfshark offer the best combination of security, speed, and value. Whether you're streaming, torrenting, or simply browsing, a VPN is one of the smartest investments you can make for your digital life.
About the Author
Software Expert
More about Davy
Davy van Bokhoven is a digital entrepreneur with more than a decade of experience in online marketing, SEO, and building comparison websites. As co-founder of Top10.Compare, Davy combines his passion for clear communication with deep knowledge of online tools — from VPNs to financial software.
Having used dozens of accounting platforms, security tools, and productivity apps over the years, Davy is focused on helping readers find the right solution for their needs, not just the most popular one.
📌 Expertise: SEO, affiliate marketing, software testing, small business tools