Looking for the best VPN in 2025? Whether you’re concerned about online privacy, want to stream geo-blocked content, or simply protect your browsing on public Wi-Fi — a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is no longer optional. Based on recent tests, user reviews, and speed benchmarks, here are the top 9 VPNs you can trust in 2025.

Quick Comparison Table

• Note on Pricing: “Price/mo (avg)” reflects the average monthly cost when subscribing to the longest available plan (e.g., 2-year). Monthly plans are typically significantly more expensive. Check the official websites for the most current pricing and plan options.
• Note on Speed Score: Speed scores are based on our recent internal benchmark tests using recommended protocols (primarily WireGuard/NordLynx where available) across various server locations.
• Note on Netflix Access: Tested for access to the US Netflix library as of June 2025. Availability can change frequently depending on the streaming service’s detection methods.

Detailed Reviews

NordVPN – Best All-Around VPN in 2025

NordVPN continues to dominate in speed, privacy, and security, standing out as a top performer for a wide range of uses. It boasts one of the largest server networks globally, with over 5,900 servers across 60 countries, providing ample connection options. Its proprietary NordLynx protocol, built around WireGuard, delivers consistently blazing speeds in recent tests, making it ideal for streaming, gaming, and large downloads without significant buffering.

For enhanced security, NordVPN offers features like Double VPN, which routes your traffic through two servers, and Onion over VPN, integrating with the Tor network. Their robust threat protection suite helps block malware, trackers, and malicious websites. NordVPN operates under the privacy-friendly jurisdiction of Panama and their strict no-logs policy has been repeatedly verified by independent third-party audits, ensuring your online activity isn’t recorded. They allow up to 6 simultaneous connections and offer intuitive apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and more. NordVPN is a versatile and highly secure option for nearly any online activity.

ExpressVPN – Best VPN for Streaming in 2025

ExpressVPN is consistently lauded as one of the most reliable VPNs for unblocking geo-restricted content, making it the top choice for accessing global libraries on services like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and many others. Its network spans 105 countries with thousands of servers, providing extensive global reach. A key privacy feature is their TrustedServer technology, which means all servers run on RAM and wipe data with every reboot, preventing long-term storage.

ExpressVPN’s custom Lightway protocol is designed for both speed and security, offering reliable connections without significant drops. Operating from the British Virgin Islands, a jurisdiction with no mandatory data retention laws, they adhere to a strong no-logs policy that has also undergone third-party audits. ExpressVPN offers apps for a wide range of devices, including routers, smart TVs, and game consoles, and provides 24/7 live chat support, making it a premium yet accessible option for streaming enthusiasts and users needing broad device compatibility.

Surfshark – Best Budget VPN for Unlimited Devices

Surfshark provides exceptional value by offering unlimited simultaneous connections on a single subscription, a feature unmatched by most competitors. This makes it incredibly cost-effective for households or individuals with many devices. Despite its budget-friendly price point, especially on longer plans, Surfshark includes a suite of premium security features. CleanWeb acts as a built-in ad, tracker, and malware blocker, while Bypasser provides flexible split tunneling. Their Camouflage Mode (obfuscation) helps hide the fact you’re using a VPN.

Surfshark supports standard protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard, offering good speeds across its network of 3,200+ servers in 100+ countries. Based in the Netherlands (following a merger, originally BVI), their no-logs policy ensures your activities aren’t stored. Surfshark is a compelling option for users seeking extensive device coverage and robust features without a high cost.

ProtonVPN – Best VPN for Privacy Purists

From the Swiss-based team known for ProtonMail, ProtonVPN is engineered for maximum anonymity and security, operating under Switzerland’s strong privacy laws. A significant highlight is its completely free plan with unlimited data, which is rare among reputable providers, though it offers limited server locations and speeds compared to paid tiers and generally cannot access Netflix.

Premium plans unlock the full network of 4,700+ servers in 90+ countries and include advanced features like Secure Core, which routes traffic through multiple secure servers (including those in Switzerland, Iceland, and Sweden) before leaving the network, and Tor over VPN integration. ProtonVPN supports strong encryption standards and protocols like OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2. Their strict no-logs policy is clearly explained, and they regularly publish transparency reports. It’s the top choice for activists, journalists, and anyone prioritizing watertight privacy and security over all else.

CyberGhost – Best for Beginners

CyberGhost simplifies the process of using a VPN with its incredibly beginner-friendly interface and dedicated, optimized servers for specific activities. It boasts one of the largest server networks, with around 9,000 servers in 100+ countries, offering a vast selection of connection points. Users can easily find servers specifically tuned for streaming (unblocking platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer), gaming, or torrenting with just one click.

The Smart Rules feature allows for automation, like launching the VPN when you open a specific app. Supporting standard protocols like OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2, CyberGhost offers reliable speeds. Based in Romania, which has favorable data retention laws, they adhere to a no-logs policy. The service provides a generous 45-day money-back guarantee (for plans longer than one month), giving ample time for new users to test its ease of use and performance.

Mullvad VPN – Most Anonymous VPN

Mullvad stands out for its extreme focus on anonymity and user privacy. It requires no email or personal information to sign up; users are assigned a unique random account number. This commitment extends to accepting cash payments, further minimizing digital footprints. Mullvad’s applications are open-source, allowing for public scrutiny, and they maintain a rigorously audited no-logs policy.

Based in Sweden, their legal framework is generally supportive of privacy. While its server network of 650+ servers in 40+ countries is smaller than some competitors, and it doesn’t prioritize streaming access (often cannot unblock Netflix), its implementation of protocols like WireGuard is highly regarded for security. With a fixed price of €5 per month regardless of subscription length, Mullvad is a transparent and robust choice for hardcore privacy advocates and advanced users comfortable with a slightly less mainstream approach.

Windscribe – Best Free VPN With Generous Plan

Windscribe is notable for offering one of the most generous free VPN plans available, providing users with 10 GB of data per month and access to servers in over 10 countries. This allows users to try the service extensively before committing to a paid plan. The paid plan unlocks unlimited data and access to servers in 110+ cities across 60+ countries.

Windscribe’s desktop and mobile clients include useful features like a customizable firewall and R.O.B.E.R.T., a flexible tool for blocking IPs, ads, and malware. It supports OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard protocols, offering solid performance. Based in Canada (part of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance), privacy-conscious users should note the jurisdiction, although they maintain a no-logs policy. While the free tier typically doesn’t unblock Netflix, paid plans are capable, making Windscribe a versatile option with a strong free entry point and good extra features.

TunnelBear – Best VPN for Beginners

TunnelBear excels in simplicity and ease of use, making it the best VPN for beginners and first-time users. Its distinctive bear-themed interface is intuitive and engaging across all platforms. While its server network is smaller than many top-tier providers, covering 48 countries, it supports standard protocols like OpenVPN and IKEv2 with strong AES-256 encryption.

TunnelBear is based in Canada, which is part of the Five Eyes alliance, but they are transparent about their practices and undergo annual independent security audits of their apps and infrastructure, which is a significant trust signal. The free plan is limited to 2 GB per month, primarily for testing. While it may not be the fastest or offer extensive advanced features or reliable Netflix unblocking, its unmatched user-friendliness and commitment to transparency make it an excellent and trustworthy starting point for those new to VPNs.

Private Internet Access (PIA) – Best for Power Users

Private Internet Access (PIA) is highly recommended for power users and those seeking extensive customization and control over their VPN connection. It offers a massive server network, reportedly the largest with servers in 90+ countries, providing extensive options for diverse needs, including being very P2P-friendly with optimized servers for torrenting. PIA supports highly configurable protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard, allowing users to fine-tune encryption levels and other settings.

Advanced features include port forwarding, a kill switch, and MACE, which blocks ads, trackers, and malware at the DNS level. Operating from the USA (part of the Five Eyes alliance), privacy concerns related to jurisdiction are addressed by their proven no-logs policy, which has been tested and upheld in real-world court cases where PIA had no data to provide. PIA is a robust and transparent VPN for users who need control, advanced features, and strong P2P support.

VPN Use Cases in 2025

VPNs serve various essential purposes in the modern digital landscape:

• Traveling – Bypass internet censorship and access your home content while abroad. Essential in countries with restrictive internet policies.
• Home privacy – Prevent your Internet Service Provider (ISP) from tracking and potentially selling your online activity data. Also protects your browsing from others on your local network.
• Streaming – Unlock and watch global libraries on services like Netflix, Disney+, Max, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, and others that are normally restricted by your location.
• Mobile protection – Secure your data and online activity when connected to potentially unsafe public Wi-Fi networks in cafes, airports, hotels, etc., preventing potential hacking or surveillance.
• Remote Work – Access company networks and resources securely from outside the office using encrypted connections, protecting sensitive business data.
• Torrenting/P2P Sharing – Download and share files securely and anonymously, protecting your IP address and activity from being monitored.

FAQ 

Q: What is the best VPN for streaming in 2025?
A: ExpressVPN and NordVPN are consistently rated among the top VPNs for streaming in 2025 due to their ability to reliably unblock major platforms and maintain high speeds, providing a smooth viewing experience.

Q: Are free VPNs safe in 2025?
A: Some free VPNs, like the free plan offered by ProtonVPN or Windscribe’s free tier, are considered safe options from reputable providers, although they come with limitations (data caps, speed limits, fewer servers, no streaming access). However, many completely free and unknown VPNs can compromise your privacy by logging data, injecting ads, or even containing malware, so extreme caution is advised. Always stick to free options from well-known providers if you choose to use a free VPN.

Q: Which VPN is fastest in 2025?
A: In recent benchmarks conducted in 2025, NordVPN, particularly when using its NordLynx protocol (based on WireGuard), generally offers the highest connection speeds, making it suitable for bandwidth-intensive activities. ExpressVPN with Lightway and providers strongly implementing WireGuard (like Surfshark, Atlas VPN, PIA) are also very fast.

Q: Does using a VPN slow down my internet speed?
A: Yes, using a VPN can slightly reduce your internet speed because your data has to travel through the VPN server and be encrypted. However, with high-quality VPNs and fast protocols like WireGuard, the speed difference is often negligible, especially for typical browsing and streaming. The impact is usually more noticeable on already slow connections.

Q: How many devices can I connect to a single VPN account?
A: This varies significantly by provider. Some, like Surfshark, offer unlimited simultaneous connections. Others, like NordVPN (6), ExpressVPN (5), or ProtonVPN (depends on plan), have limits. Check the specific plan details before subscribing.