Your Complete Guide to the Best VPN in 2025
Finding the best VPN in 2025 can feel like a chore, right? There are so many options out there, all promising the moon. Whether you're trying to watch your favorite shows from another country, keep your online activity private, or just get a faster connection, the right VPN makes a big difference. We've looked at a bunch of them to help you figure out which one fits your needs without all the confusing tech talk. Let's break down some of the top contenders and what makes them stand out.
1. NordVPN
NordVPN is a solid choice for pretty much anyone looking for a VPN. It really does a lot of things well, which is why it often pops up at the top of these best VPN lists.
It's incredibly fast, which is a big deal if you're into streaming or gaming. In our tests, it maxed out a 1 Gbps connection, barely slowing things down at all. This means you can stream in 4K or play games without that annoying lag.
Here's a quick look at what it offers:
Speed: Consistently one of the fastest VPNs we've tested.
Streaming: Unblocks pretty much every streaming service you can think of, like Netflix, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer.
Privacy: Strong security features to keep your online activity private.
Servers: A huge network of over 8,000 servers in 164 countries means you've got plenty of options.
Ease of Use: The apps are pretty straightforward, even if you're new to VPNs. You can connect with just a few clicks.
NordVPN also throws in some extra features like Double VPN, which routes your traffic through two servers for extra security, and Threat Protection Pro to block ads and malware. It's not the absolute cheapest option out there, especially when it comes time to renew, but for what you get, it's a really good value. It's a great all-rounder that's hard to beat.
While NordVPN is generally easy to use, some of the more advanced settings might take a bit of getting used to if you're not super tech-savvy. But for most everyday tasks, it's a breeze.
2. Surfshark
Surfshark really stands out if you're looking for a VPN that won't break the bank. Seriously, the introductory pricing is hard to beat, making it a fantastic option for budget-conscious users. You get unlimited device connections with a single account, which is pretty wild when you think about it – connect your phone, laptop, tablet, smart TV, you name it, all at once.
When it comes to streaming, Surfshark is a champ. It managed to unblock every single streaming service we threw at it, including different regional libraries. So, if binge-watching your favorite shows from anywhere is your goal, this VPN has got your back.
While the apps are generally easy to use, with a clean design, some users might find the interface a bit busy with all the features competing for attention. It's not a dealbreaker, but it's not quite as streamlined as some other top-tier VPNs. Still, for beginners, it's pretty straightforward to get started.
Surfshark also offers a bundle called Surfshark One, which includes antivirus and other security tools. It's a nice addition if you want more than just VPN protection. You can grab Surfshark One for $2.49 per month when you commit to a two-year plan.
Surfshark's commitment to providing a robust feature set at an affordable price point makes it a strong contender, especially for those new to VPNs or with many devices to protect. The unlimited device policy is a major selling point.
One thing to keep in mind is that the price can jump significantly if you don't manage your subscription renewal. Also, while it has good security features, its built-in malware blocking isn't as effective as some competitors. If you need advanced settings or prefer OpenVPN to be readily available without manual setup, you might want to look elsewhere. But for most people, Surfshark hits a sweet spot between cost, performance, and features.
3. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is a solid choice if you're looking for a VPN that's incredibly easy to use. Seriously, it's about as straightforward as it gets. You pick a server location, hit connect, and you're pretty much done. It's great for people who just want a VPN to work without a lot of fuss.
While it used to be a bit pricier than some competitors, they've recently introduced a tiered pricing structure. This means you can find plans starting at a more accessible $3.49 per month, though you might not get all the bells and whistles with the basic plans. It's worth checking out their different tiers to see what fits your needs best. They also have apps for pretty much every device out there, and even their own router if you want to protect your whole home network. Plus, they've updated their mobile apps to include built-in speed tests and a 'Smart Location' feature that automatically connects you to the best server.
ExpressVPN has also put a lot of effort into security and privacy. They use a technology called TrustedServer, which means nothing is stored on their servers and they're wiped clean regularly. They've even had independent audits to prove it. It's a good option if you want a reliable service that prioritizes user-friendliness. You can find out more about their security features.
Here's a quick look at some of its features:
Ease of Use: 5/5 stars. It's hard to beat their simple interface.
Streaming: 4/5 stars. Generally good, though we did notice a few hiccups with Netflix during testing.
Customer Support: Excellent 24/7 live chat, with quick response times.
While ExpressVPN might not offer as many customization options as some other VPNs for advanced users, its strength lies in its simplicity and reliability. It's a great starting point for anyone new to VPNs.
4. Proton VPN
Proton VPN is a solid choice, especially if you're really focused on privacy. It's a Swiss company, and they've made their apps open source, which means anyone can look at the code to make sure it's secure. That's a big deal for transparency. If you check free VPN reddit threads, Proton VPN often gets mentioned as a trusted option. They also have this feature called 'Secure Core' where your internet traffic goes through two VPN servers instead of just one, with the first server being in a super secure location like Iceland or Switzerland. It's like an extra layer of protection.
If you're in a country where using a VPN is tricky or even banned, Proton VPN has a 'Stealth' protocol that helps hide the fact that you're even using a VPN. They also have a feature called 'Alternate Routing' that can help you get around websites that block VPNs by routing your traffic through a third-party server, like Amazon's. For those who need to be extra anonymous, you can even connect directly to the Tor network through some of their servers.
Here's a quick look at some of its features:
Open Source Apps: Allows for public scrutiny of the code for security flaws.
Secure Core: Routes traffic through two VPN servers for enhanced security.
Stealth Protocol: Helps disguise VPN usage in restrictive regions.
NetShield: An ad and tracker blocker included in the Plus plan.
Tor Integration: Option to connect directly to the Tor network.
While Proton VPN offers a lot for privacy-conscious users, it can be a bit more expensive than some other options. The interface has gotten better, but it might still feel a little more complex if you're new to VPNs compared to simpler services. Also, their live chat support isn't available 24/7, which might be a drawback for some users, especially those in different time zones.
Proton VPN does have a free version, which is pretty good because it offers unlimited data. However, the paid version is where you get the full benefits, like faster speeds and access to a much wider range of servers. If you're looking for a VPN that prioritizes privacy and offers advanced features, Proton VPN is definitely worth considering, even with its slightly higher price point.
5. PIA
Private Internet Access, or PIA as most people call it, is a really solid choice if you like to tinker with settings and have a lot of control over your VPN connection. It’s definitely not the simplest VPN out there, and honestly, the desktop app can feel a bit overwhelming if you’re just starting out with VPNs. You’ve got tons of options for things like encryption levels, kill switches, and even how the VPN connects to different networks.
PIA offers two kill switches, which is pretty neat. One is a standard one that just kicks in if the VPN connection drops. The other is an "advanced" kill switch that basically stops you from using the internet at all if you’re not connected to the VPN. It’s a bit extreme, but if you want to be absolutely sure you’re always protected, it’s there.
When it comes to speed, PIA isn't the fastest on the block. In our tests, it didn't quite match up to some of the other top providers, especially if you have a really fast internet connection. However, if your internet speed is more average, you probably won't notice a big difference in day-to-day use. It does perform quite well with OpenVPN, which is a plus if you need that specific protocol.
PIA is a great option for users who want deep customization and don't mind a more complex interface. It's packed with features that advanced users will appreciate, but might be a bit much for beginners.
Here’s a quick look at what PIA offers:
Extensive Customization: Adjust encryption, protocols, and more.
Automation Features: Set the VPN to connect automatically on specific networks.
Strong Privacy Focus: Audited no-logging policy and transparency reports.
Port Forwarding: A useful feature for torrenting and other P2P activities.
Unlimited Devices: Connect as many devices as you want simultaneously.
6. Best For Privacy
When you're looking for a VPN that really prioritizes keeping your online activities to yourself, a few names consistently pop up. It's not just about hiding your IP address; it's about the whole package – how they handle your data, the security features they offer, and whether they've had their practices checked out by outside folks. Proton VPN stands out here because it's open-source, meaning its code is out there for anyone to inspect, which builds a lot of trust. Plus, they have these "Secure Core" servers that route your traffic through multiple countries before it even hits its final destination, adding an extra layer of protection.
NordVPN also does a solid job with privacy. They've got audited apps, which is a big deal, and they're even looking into post-quantum encryption, which is pretty advanced stuff for protecting against future threats. ExpressVPN is another strong contender, having gone through more independent audits than most. They're usually quick to adopt new privacy tech as it becomes available.
What really matters in a privacy-focused VPN is trust. If the VPN itself isn't trustworthy, you're actually more exposed than if you weren't using one at all. They can see everything you do online, so you need to be sure they're not logging it or selling it.
Here's a quick look at how some of the top privacy contenders stack up:
Proton VPN: Open-source, Secure Core servers, strong focus on privacy tools.
NordVPN: Audited apps, exploring advanced encryption, good all-around privacy.
ExpressVPN: Extensive audit history, early adopter of new privacy tech.
Choosing the right VPN for privacy means looking beyond just the basic features. It's about the provider's commitment to transparency and security, backed by real-world checks and a history of responsible data handling. You want a service that makes privacy a core part of its identity, not just an afterthought.
7. Best For Streaming
When it comes to streaming, you want a VPN that just works, no fuss. You need it to unblock your favorite shows from anywhere and do it without slowing you down to a crawl. NordVPN really shines here, consistently getting us into different Netflix libraries and other streaming sites without any issues.
We tested a bunch of VPNs, and NordVPN was one of the few that could get into every streaming service we tried on the first go. That's pretty impressive, honestly. Plus, the speeds are great, so you won't be staring at a buffering wheel when you're trying to watch something.
Here's a quick look at how some top contenders stack up for streaming:
For streaming, reliability is key. You don't want to spend your evening trying to figure out why your VPN isn't working. Services that consistently unblock geo-restricted content and offer fast speeds are the ones you want.
Surfshark is also a strong contender, especially if you want unlimited simultaneous connections. It's fast and unblocks regional Netflix catalogs easily. We didn't notice any stuttering or slow loading times, even when connected to servers far away. It's a solid choice for watching your favorite shows from wherever you are, without sacrificing security. You can find out more about the best VPN services on CNET's recommendations.
Ultimately, if your main goal is to stream content from around the world without interruption, NordVPN is a really solid bet. It's been reliable in our tests, and the fast speeds mean you can actually enjoy your shows.
8. Best For Speed
When you need your internet connection to be as fast as possible, a VPN can sometimes feel like a speed bump. But not all VPNs are created equal in this department. We looked at which ones really keep things moving.
Surfshark consistently impressed us with its raw speed. It’s one of those services that just flies, especially on nearby servers. We saw download speeds that were seriously impressive, making it a great choice if you’re downloading large files or just want a snappy browsing experience.
Here’s a quick look at how some top contenders stack up:
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