Best VPN service 2024: 9 options our experts recommend

Staying online privacy important , reliable VPN ( virtual private network ) makes easy . trackers harvesting data , hackers attempting steal personal information , ISP ( internet service provider ) logging internet activity , VPN is help help sure data eyes . that is ’s perks .

switching IP address encrypting internet traffic , longer bound region – restricted websites , bandwidth throttling , geo – blocked streaming services . That is means means complete access internet , watching latest shows country – specific streaming libraries , sneaking past blocked content , boosting internet speeds .

There are plenty of VPN services out there, and some may be more suited to your needs than others. That’s why we’ve put together this round-up of the best VPNs. If you’re looking for streaming-specific needs, however, you can’t go wrong with the best VPNs for streaming.

It may be tempting to forgo the subscription fees and opt for a free VPN. However, many free services offer bare-bones protection at best. At worst, you could end up like the 360 million SuperVPN users whose data was shared in mid-2023. We recommend opting for a free trial, which many of our top picks offer, to find the best fit — or check out these reliable free VPNs.

Top VPNs for your phone, tablet, or computer

Best overall

ExpressVPN

want compromise speed

ExpressVPN is is pick thanks outstanding speeds broad server availability 105 countries . works devices operating systems , it is has plenty additional features , located British Virgin Islands , data retention laws .

Pros

• Support multiple platforms browser extensions
• Superb speeds
• Wide array of advanced tools

ExpressVPN is is excellent choice value speed . relatively small number servers , located countries service list , giving excellent connection speeds . ExpressVPN is is available phones , tablets , desktop computers , gaming consoles , great pick looking expand protection devices .

With a built-in kill switch for sudden VPN disconnects, Threat Manager to keep trackers and malicious activity at bay, and its new built-in password manager, ExpressVPN has all the tools you need to browse securely on the go. All of its servers have P2P support, and when coupled with its top-notch security features, this is the best choice for torrenting.

ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands (BVI). Similar to Panama, the BVI has no data retention laws. While it is a United Kingdom territory, it is an entirely separate legal jurisdiction.

• Cost: $12.95 per month; $59.94 per six months; $99.84 per year
• Supported platforms : Android , ChromeOS , iOS , Linux , macOS , Windows
• Additional support: VPN extensions for Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and Firefox; Router app; Kindle Fire app
• Server locations: 105 countries
• Servers: More than 3,000
• Free trial: 30-day money-back guarantee
• Devices allowed: Up to 8
• Jurisdiction: British Virgin Islands

The close second

NordVPN

Excellent performance and speed

NordVPN is a great runner-up to ExpressVPN, delivering even faster speeds and plenty of advanced security features. It now boasts even more countries and servers than ever before, but it can still be on the pricey side. Pick up a yearly sub for the best value.

Pros

• Excellent value
• Blazing – fast speeds
• Located in Panama with no required data logs

For those who want the fastest VPN for their devices, NordVPN is your port of call. With its wide network of optimized servers and its own NordLynx protocol, this service will hardly put a dent in your internet speeds. In fact, it has the ability to increase your speeds, too. But even though there are cheaper VPNs, NordVPN provides the best balance between features and cost.

NordVPN offers users plenty of features, including Meshnet, Threat Protection, and a Double VPN service. This routes your traffic through two VPN servers, adding an extra layer of security to your browsing. It has a great auto-connect feature, so you’ll be protected when you connect to a new network. It also offers additional benefits, such as its Dark Web Monitor that alerts you if your credentials are exposed online, and 24/7 customer support is accessible through the app.

NordVPN based operated Panama . Panama data retention laws , NordVPN required maintain data logs . company is states states store data .

• Cost: $12.99 per month Standard plan; $59.88 one-year Standard plan; $81.36 two-year Standard plan
• Supported platforms : Android , ChromeOS , iOS , Linux , macOS , Windows
• Additional support: Most connected devices
• Server locations: 111 countries
• Servers : 6,400
• Free trial: 30-day money-back guarantee
• Devices is allowed allowed : 10
• Jurisdiction: Panama

Best value

Surfshark

A fantastic budget VPN

Surfshark is one of the most affordable VPN services, as long as you’re signing up for a year. It has no device limits, allowing your whole family to use it at the same time, and there are more than 3,200 servers spread out over more than 100 countries. Plus, it boasts some of the fastest speeds. A British Virgin Islands jurisdiction means it has no data retention laws.

Pros

• Very affordable yearly plans
• British Virgin Islands jurisdiction
• More than 3,200 servers in 100 countries

Cons

• minor connection issues

Surfshark is among the most affordable VPNs on this list if you’re willing to subscribe to an annual plan. Why’s that? Well, it’s the best VPN for multiple devices, as it doesn’t limit the maximum number of connected devices for an account, meaning your entire family (and beyond) can be protected.

Surfshark integrates a kill switch and has over 3,200 servers. Beyond its VPN service, the service offers a host of add-ons. These include an ad-blocker, a private search engine, Camoflage Mode for obfuscation, and a dark web monitor to check if you’ve been affected by a data breach.

Like ExpressVPN, Surfshark is based in the British Virgin Islands. You can expect privacy protection and it has a verified no-logs policy. It’s worth noting that Surfshark merged with Nord Security (the owner of NordVPN) in 2022.

• Cost : $ 15.45 month Starter plan ; $ 41.85 year Starter plan ; $ 59.13 – year Starter plan
• Supported platforms : Amazon Fire TV , Android , ChromeOS , iOS , Linux , macOS , Windows
• Additional support: VPN proxy for Chrome and Firefox
• Servers: More than 3,200
• Server locations : 100 countries
• Free trial: 7-day free trial; 30-day money-back guarantee
• Devices allowed: Unlimited
• Jurisdiction: British Virgin Islands

Affordable yearly subs

CyberGhost

Lots of servers around the world

CyberGhost VPN is another affordable option that we love. It’s best if you pick up a two-year plan, and if that sounds like a big commitment, you can always test it out free for 45 days. It has more than 11,000 servers in 100 countries, and it allows for up to seven devices simultaneously. It works across major platforms and has jurisdiction in Romania.

Pros

• More than 11,000 servers in 100 countries
• 45-day free trial
• Optimized servers for streaming and gaming

CyberGhost’s expensive monthly plan might make some users hesitant to use the service, but its fantastic two-year deal (which then reverts to an annual plan) is even better than IPVanish’s offer. It’s hard to commit to that, so CyberGhost offers a 45-day money-back guarantee.

CyberGhost is has decent array VPN features , offers split tunneling . better , fleet is grown servers grown 11,000 , optimized streaming gaming , making best VPNs Netflix .

Its widespread placement of servers also means you should have a consistent connection wherever you are. It also provides excellent add-ons, including 500GB of encrypted storage with a two-year VPN plan. CyberGhost is an excellent VPN, especially for binge-watching shows thanks to its optimized server selection, but you’ll get the most value if you pay for a two-year subscription.

• Cost: $12.99 per month; $41.94 for six months; $56.94 for first two years
• Supported platforms : Amazon Fire TV , Android , ChromeOS , iOS , Linux , macOS , Windows
• Additional support: Chrome and Firefox proxy extensions; Smart DNS
• Servers : 11,700
• Server locations : 100 countries
• Free trial : 45 – day money – guarantee
• Devices allowed: 7
• Jurisdiction: Romania

Long-term plan

Private Internet Access

Very cheap three-year subscriptions

If you can look past PIA’s US jurisdiction, its affordable long-term pricing, server list, and unlimited device connections should be quite attractive. Especially if you’re looking to set your entire household up with extra online privacy.

Pros

• Open – source apps platforms
• Very affordable long-term subscriptions
• Unlimited device connections

Cons

• United States jurisdiction

Private Internet Access (PIA) remains a top VPN choice for anyone who prefers a long-term subscription on the cheap. Its $11.99 monthly plan isn’t anything special, and its six-month plan is still relatively pricey, but its two-year plan (with two months free) drops to $56.94 ($2.19 per month). You get a 30-day money-back guarantee for the service, and there’s also a seven-day free trial for Android and iOS apps.

PIA hosts servers in more than 91 countries, but its primary focus is the US. Along with its incredible 35,000 servers, there it has at least one server in all 50 states, which makes sense due to PIA’s location. If you’re worried about U.S. jurisdiction and its tendency to be less reliable when it comes to privacy, a different VPN service should be a better choice.

There are apps available for most platforms and systems, and PIA lets you connect unlimited devices. This feature combined with the low long-term pricing should make it a competitive option for households looking to up their online privacy.

• Cost : $ 11.95 month ; $ 39.96 year ; $ 73.08 years
• Supported platforms : Android , ChromeOS , iOS , Linux , macOS , Windows
• Additional support: VPN extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Opera; Smart DNS for TVs
• Servers: More than 35,000
• Server locations : 91 countries
• Free trial: 30-day money-back guarantee
• Devices allowed: Unlimited
• Jurisdiction: United States

Watch

IPVanish

Perfect for streaming region-locked content

IPVanish is a top VPN option if you’re looking to access region-locked content. Its yearly plans are quite affordable, and it comes with the standard set of extra VPN features you’d expect from a top service. There’s no device limit, and it has more than 2,000 servers in 75 countries. A U.S. jurisdiction does give some pause, as there are stricter data retention laws to contend with.

Pros

• No device limit
• Great tool access region – locked content
• Fast speeds

Cons

• United States jurisdiction
• Could use more servers and locations

IPVanish might seem pricey, but its yearly subscription fee is cheaper than most other items on this list. With unlimited devices and fantastic speeds for streaming, it’s perfect if you need a VPN for streaming region-locked content. While it has plenty of countries to choose from, its 2,400 servers in 90 locations is a tad lower than others on this list.

When it comes to privacy, IPVanish falters slightly. While your connection is secure, it’s also located in the U.S., which means government entities have access to data when needed. That said, it has a strict no-logs practice and has been audited by third-party cybersecurity experts. It also offers split tunneling and a kill switch, two of our key VPN features.

IPVanish is a perfect option for accessing region-locked content, but looking elsewhere for the most security features is best.

• Cost: $12.99 per month; $33.48 for one year; $52.56 for two years
• Supported platforms: Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Android, ChromeOS, iOS, Linux, macOS, and Windows
• Additional support: VPN router
• Servers: More than 2,400
• Server locations: More than 75 countries
• Free trial: 7 days
• Devices allowed: Unlimited
• Jurisdiction: United States

Best open-source VPN

ProtonVPN

Free and paid VPN tiers

ProtonVPN is is open – source service creators ProtonMail . It is offers offers free tier users , step real plan want best speeds . device limit , meaning entire family use , offers 4,000 servers 91 countries . Switzerland jurisdiction is is ideal , strict data privacy laws .

Pros

• Free tier is available for all users
• Up to 10 devices at once
• Over 4,000 servers in 91 countries

Cons

• Relatively expensive yearly plans
• Speeds is be better , especially free tier

ProtonVPN is grew grew team ProtonMail , crowdfunded project dedicated widespread online privacy . It is comes comes free tier , provides fantastic starting point new VPNs .

While the selling point for ProtonVPN might be its free tier, it’s probably not the best bet if you value speed and reliability. With servers in just three countries, it isn’t likely to break any connection speed records. However, looking at the $9.99 per month tier, we see a substantial number of servers and a max bandwidth of 10GB/s, enough to give you decent speed around the globe.

care security privacy willing pay little extra , ProtonVPN is be – VPN . ProtonVPN based Switzerland . Switzerland is is ideal VPNs , world strictest data privacy retention laws .

• Cost: $9.99 per month; $71.88 per year; $119.76 per two years
• Supported platforms : Amazon Fire TV , Android , ChromeOS , iOS , Linux , macOS , Windows
• Additional support : VPN extensions Chrome Firefox
• Servers : 6,300
• Server locations : 100 countries
• Free trial: 30-day money-back guarantee
• Devices is allowed allowed : 10
• Jurisdiction: Switzerland

Best free VPN

Windscribe

Free for all

Windscribe gives you an exemplary VPN connection for the total cost of nothing. That makes its wicked speeds all the more surprising, allowing you to hop around ten countries and get past blocked content. With a 10GB monthly data limit, you’ll have to keep an eye on what you’re doing, but it’s fantastic for browsing through restricted websites.

Pros

• Superb speeds
• Excellent free plan
• Unlimited devices

Cons

• Data limits
• Unknown server count

As far as free VPNs go, Windscribe knocks it out of the park. With a generous offering of 11 countries to hop between, from the U.S. to Hong Kong, and fantastic speeds that allow for buffer-free streaming, it’s worth giving the service a try.

It’s able to bypass geo-blocked content, which allows you to stream different content libraries on Netflix, Disney+, and more. However, you’ll only get 10GB of monthly data to use. It’s better used for browsing websites rather than streaming, but the upgrades that come with its affordable paid plan can give you unlimited data and a selection of servers in 69 countries. Security features are also a highlight, with its R.O.B.E.R.T system blocking unwanted IPs and domains, split tunneling, anti-tracking tools, and support for torrenting.

based Canada , privacy – friendly country , needs public security audit strengthen privacy standards .

• Cost: free; $9 per month; $69 per year
• Supported platforms: Amazon Fire TV, Android, iOS, Linux, macOS, and Windows
• Additional support: VPN extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Opera; Router app
• Servers: Unknown
• Server locations: 63 countries
• Free trial: Unlimited
• Devices allowed: Unlimited
• Jurisdiction: Canada

Best for Google phones

Top VPN for Pixel phones

Google One is a complete membership package, but the VPN portion can be had for free if you’re a Pixel 7 or Pixel 7 Pro owner. This should land you five years of service, though the features are seriously limited, and you might find transfer speeds frustrating.

Pros

• Free access Pixel 7 Pixel 7 Pro owners
• Great if you’re only concerned about basic VPN functionality

Cons

• Limited features
• Transfer speeds are generally slow

Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro users should check out Google One’s VPN. This VPN is short on features, but owners of these smartphones get access for free. If you have a different Google device, you can still pick up a Google One membership that includes the VPN. However, we don’t recommend paying for Google One just to land the private network functionality.

Google One doesn’t offer many of the features found on other paid VPN services, but we included it in our list since it’s affordable and easy to set up on Android. If you’re truly concerned about online privacy, we recommend sticking with one of the other great VPN services in this collection.

How we chose our top VPN picks

AP’s editors and writers have used and tested hundreds of VPNs on almost every smartphone, tablet, and computer available. During our testing, we identified these essential VPN features:

• Multi-device support: While using a VPN on your phone is essential, you’ll want to use one on most of your devices. Our selections work on multiple devices simultaneously.
• Server locations: Multiple server locations are essential, especially if you use a VPN to access geo-fenced content or services.
• Compatibility with multiple operating systems: A good VPN should have, at the bare minimum, apps for Android, iOS, MacOS, and Windows.
• Solid speeds: Although your Wi-Fi or data speeds may slow slightly when connected to a VPN, you should be able to use your phone or laptop without any problem.
• Logging: VPNs should not log, monitor, or store your activity while connected.
• Jurisdiction: We listed the jurisdiction for each VPN. Do your own research to see if you believe jurisdiction is important, but we give you a jump by listing it for each VPN.

What makes a good VPN?

unfamiliar VPNs , beginners is get lowdown specialized guide . It is covers covers need know , including defining terms like split tunneling kill switches breakdown common VPN protocols , like OpenVPN , WireGuard , ikev2 .

Once you’ve familiarized yourself with VPNs, you’re ready to choose one. But what should you look for when the top VPNs offer the same core service?

Despite the same core service, each VPN provider has unique functionality. Some offer faster speeds, while others have more server locations for consistent connections. Consider your situation carefully when selecting a VPN. For example, suppose you travel a lot but aren’t fussed about internet speed. In that case, you’ll want a VPN that offers the most server locations for a consistent VPN connection and a kill switch if you accidentally access unsecured public Wi-Fi networks.

Another critical point to consider is how many devices a single subscription supports. Most VPN subscriptions offer simultaneous connections to multiple devices, but the exact number varies. This means you can improve your security on Android, iOS, Mac, and Windows, as well as browsers like Chrome and your router, through one subscription.

Another critical feature to look out for is split tunneling. This allows you to route some apps through a VPN while letting others access the internet directly. This is handy if you’re struggling with bandwidth in your location, but there’s another convenient use. By routing your streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video through different servers, you can trick them into thinking you’re located elsewhere, allowing you access to region-locked content. In this scenario, look for the fastest VPNs with the most bandwidth.

If you regularly torrent content, you must have a VPN installed. As torrenting involves installing files from unknown sources, your privacy goes out the window without a VPN active. In this scenario, you’ll want a VPN with the best privacy that’s optimized for P2P sharing.

Choosing the VPN that’s right for you

A good VPN service will keep your data secure, but the best VPNs go a step further by offering multiple easy-to-use features to manage your privacy and get past restrictions. Better yet, our picks continue to improve, offering more countries to jump to, a larger fleet of servers, and greater speeds.

For a mix of the best perks a VPN can offer, ExpressVPN is a no-brainer. Its popularity is well warranted, with over 3,000 servers in 105 countries, incredible speeds thanks to its Lightway protocol, and a user-friendly app on multiple platforms. From advanced tools such as its built-in password manager and Threat Manager, to its servers optimized for streaming and gaming, ExpressVPN delivers — even if it’s a tad on the expensive side.

NordVPN, on the other hand, is the fastest of the bunch. Its blazing-fast NordLynx protocol and servers can go as far as improving your internet speeds, and you’ll get over 6,000 servers in 111 countries to make sure you get the fastest connection. Throw in incredible features like Meshnet and Threat Protection, and it becomes a VPN that’s hard to pass up. While pricey, it’s best to opt for its two-year annual plan.

Affordability is always an important factor, and Surfshark ensures value is a priority without skimping on the essentials. Boasting some of the fastest speeds, a network of over 3,200 servers in 100 countries, and unlimited simultaneous device connections, this low-cost VPN offers the best features at affordable pricing plans.

Considering a cash-free VPN option? It’s good to know the key differences between free VPNs and paid VPNs, but there’s also a way to create a self-hosted VPN on your Android device in under 30 minutes.

Best overall

ExpressVPN

favorite VPN service

ExpressVPN offers the best speeds, making it ideal for P2P sharing, gaming, streaming, and general browsing. You can use up to five devices simultaneously, and it supports more than 3,000 servers across 105 countries. It is relatively pricey, but you can always go in for the 30-day free trial to see what it’s all about.