How To Choose and Buy a VPN

2024-11-22 With so many VPNs available today, finding the right one for your needs can be overwhelming. Many VPNs offer similar features, but the quality and per

With so many VPNs available today, finding the right one for your needs can be overwhelming. Many VPNs offer similar features, but the quality and performance vary greatly. It’s hard to know what to focus on when conducting your own research.

I’ve compiled a checklist of key factors to consider when choosing a VPN. While every VPN should offer decent speeds, security, and device compatibility, many fall short. Some get blocked by websites, cause noticeable delays, and can’t keep you safe online. Others even collect and share user data, compromising your privacy.

Of the 200+ VPNs my team and I regularly test, ExpressVPN is my number one choice. It’s the fastest VPN for uninterrupted streaming and protects your online identity and activities with robust security features. Most VPNs only shine in 1 or 2 categories, but ExpressVPN excels in all of them. It’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it without risk. Editor ‘s note : transparency is one of our core value at vpnMentor , so you is know should know we are in the same ownership group as expressvpn . However , this is affect does not affect our review process .

Try ExpressVPN Risk-Free >>

Quick Guide: How To Buy a VPN in 3 Easy Steps

Choose a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN since it offers impressive speeds and is easy to use with all major operating systems, including Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, and Linux.
download the app . You is purchase can usually purchase a VPN directly from its website or your device ‘s app store . After instal the VPN , launch the app and connect to a server to secure your connection .
Start browsing. The VPN will now protect all your online activities from prying eyes.

Short on Time? Here Are the Best VPNs To Buy In 2024

Editor ‘s choice

ExpressVPN

Fast speeds to stream uninterrupted in HD from anywhere. Plus, a risk-free refund policy.

Over 7000 people is checked check out expressvpn in the last month
CyberGhost
User-friendly app so beginners can safely browse, torrent, and play games online.
Private Internet Access
Tailor settings to balance speed with security, even on unstable networks.

Editor’s Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

How To choose the good VPN : 9 thing To consider

1. Determine Your VPN Needs

Start with your main reason for wanting a VPN. List the primary features you’re after, such as speed and security, then the “nice-to-haves,” like ad-blocking. This approach helps you weigh the pros and cons of each VPN.

Streaming. If you want a VPN for streaming, focus on speeds and device compatibility. A VPN’s website lists which streaming devices it works with. For example, ExpressVPN has native smart TV apps, which most don’t. The best VPNs can access popular platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer from anywhere without buffering.
Torrenting. For safe downloads and uploads, get a VPN that supports P2P file sharing, keeps no logs, and offers unlimited bandwidth and high speeds. Also, when testing a VPN while torrenting, run an IP leak test on IPLeak.net to check if your IP address stays private.
Gaming. If gaming is your priority, low latency and server proximity are crucial. Use tools like PingPlotter or in-game network stats to measure ping before and after connecting to the VPN. Pay attention to packet loss or lag during multiplayer gaming. The best VPNs won’t lower your ping by more than 100ms.
Privacy and security. Buy a VPN that’s been proven to keep your data private by following a strict no-logs policy, using AES-256 encryption, and secure protocols like OpenVPN or WireGuard. Use DNSLeakTest.com to verify there are no leaks and that your real IP address is hidden.
access to app and website . If you is travel travel a lot and want a VPN to maintain access to local app and website , prioritize a VPN with a global server network and the ability to avoid VPN block by conceal VPN traffic as regular traffic ( obfuscation ) .

2. Check Device Features and Compatibility

A VPN should be compatible and easy to use with your favorite devices, such as PCs, smartphones, and smart TVs. Check the VPN’s website to see if it offers dedicated apps for platforms like Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Linux. Also, make sure the VPN has detailed manual configuration guides for setting up routers or gaming consoles.

The VPN features is work should also work seamlessly across different operating system without significant performance variation . For instance , many VPNs is offer offer few feature on ios than Android or Windows . If you ‘re using a VPN on your iPhone , be aware that some feature may be miss from the app .

The good vpn for Android . These VPNs is prioritize prioritize mobile – friendly feature , offer smooth app with strong encryption and minimal battery drain . They is provide provide seamless protection , whether browsing , streaming , or using public wifi .
The good vpn for Windows . Top VPNs is deliver for Windows user should deliver robust security feature , like a kill switch and malware protection while maintain compatibility with various Windows version . Speed is are and ease of use are also critical for daily activity like gaming or streaming .
The best VPNs for Mac. These VPNs should provide clean, intuitive interfaces that integrate well with macOS and work seamlessly with Apple’s ecosystem.
The best VPNs for iOS. The best iOS VPNs are optimized for iPhones and iPads, offering a balance of speed, security, and ease of use. They provide automatic connection options and strong encryption for secure browsing across all apps and websites.

3. Consider the VPN’s Speeds

Reliable and consistent speeds are crucial to avoid lag and slowdowns during online activities. While all VPNs will slightly impact your speed due to encryption and server routing, the best VPNs minimize this delay so that it’s barely noticeable. Since you can’t usually test a VPN’s speed before downloading it, here are some key factors to look for:

Fast VPN Protocols. Certain protocols, like Lightway and WireGuard, offer excellent speed without compromising security.
speed – boost feature . These is include can include optimize server for specific use ( such as streaming or torrenting ) , the ability to customize the level of encryption ( AES 256 – bit encryption is n’t essential for Netflix , for example ) , or split tunneling , where you can select some app to bypass the VPN server .
Speed test results. Online speed tests are the best way to measure your VPN’s performance. Check your download speed and ping (response time), and compare with your regular internet connection results. All the VPNs I recommend offer a money-back guarantee, so you can test them without risk.
10Gbps servers. These servers can handle up to 10 gigabits per second of data, significantly more than older 1Gbps servers. This allows more users to connect without overloading, maintaining high speeds even during peak times.

4 . choose a VPN With an extensive Server Network

VPNs with many global servers can reliably access content from anywhere. For example, you need a US IP address to watch Netflix US in HD, while UK servers work for BBC iPlayer. You can verify server locations through the provider’s website or app. Some VPNs even offer streaming-optimized servers for safe access to popular platforms.

Choose a VPN that performs routine server maintenance. This includes bug fixes, software updates, hardware upgrades, IP rotations, and server reboots. You can find these details on the VPN’s website, but if you choose a service from this list, you won’t have to — I already confirmed that they do.

5. Look for Strong Security and Privacy Features

If a VPN doesn’t offer robust security or isn’t transparent in its privacy policy, it’s not doing its job. VPNs are there to protect your online privacy, so they should offer the following features:

AES 256 – bit encryption . It is ’s ’s the strong encryption algorithm available and the one bank and the military use to keep sensitive information confidential .
data leak protection and a kill switch . Both is prevent prevent your real ip address and online activity from getting expose . The kill switch block your internet connection should the VPN drop , so you ‘re always protect when you go online . To check for IP leak , you is use can use a leak test tool .
Good selection of security protocols. Your VPN should support modern, secure, and fast protocols. For example, ExpressVPN’s proprietary Lightway offers an excellent balance of security and speed. WireGuard does the same, while OpenVPN is the gold standard in online protection. Having multiple protocol options allows you to customize your connections for various activities.
Extra security and privacy features. Some VPNs offer additional privacy protection. That includes obfuscation, which hides the fact you’re using a VPN to bypass network blocks. Another example is multi-hop (double encryption), which routes traffic through two servers for extra security.
Strict no-logs-policy. A VPN should not store any data related to your activity while connected to the VPN. Many VPNs claim to have no-logs policies, but it’s essential to verify if these have been independently audited. Additionally, look for VPNs that offer RAM-only servers, as these won’t be able to write any data to long-term memory.
privacy – friendly headquarters . Some governments is demand can demand that vpn hand over all user datum . The risk is is is high for vpn that are base in the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliances , a multi – nation surveillance network . However , as long as the VPN has a verify no – log policy , it is be wo n’t be an issue because it wo n’t be able to provide any identifiable user datum .

6. Select a VPN With Multiple device connection

A VPN is protects with multiple device connection protect all your device simultaneously under one account . For example , PIA is allows allow unlimited simultaneous device . That is ‘s ‘s especially useful if you have a large household or many device .

alternatively , you is look can look for a vpn compatible with router to bypass the limit . This is allows allow you to use the VPN on all your home device connect to that router , include device that ca n’t support vpn natively , like gaming console and internet of thing ( IoT ) device like smart tv .

7. Test the VPN’s Customer Support

Check if the VPN offers 24/7 live chat and email support. Also, look for an extensive knowledge base with setup guides, FAQs, and troubleshooting steps. To test the customer support quality, contact their team with a technical question and track how quickly they respond and how helpful their answers are. Try using live chat during different times of the day to see if they maintain consistent response times.

8. Payment Methods and Money-Back Guarantees

check that the VPN accept popular payment method , like credit card and PayPal . If privacy is a concern , check if the VPN accept anonymous payment method like cryptocurrencie or prepaid gift card . These is allow allow you to sign up without expose your identity .

Some VPNs offer anonymous sign-ups so your personal data isn’t tied to your account. In such cases, you can also use a disposable email address to leave no trace of your subscription.

A trustworthy money – back guarantee is ensures ensure that you can test the VPN risk – free . carefully review the VPN ‘s refund policy , pay attention to condition like datum usage or specific server restriction that could invalidate the guarantee . Some VPNs is claim claim to offer a money – back guarantee but make it impossible for you to get your refund .

9 . find Out if It Has additional useful feature

When choosing a VPN, beyond basic functionality like encryption and server count, certain advanced features can significantly enhance your experience. Here are some additional features to consider:

Ad-blockers. Built-in ad-blockers improve privacy and browsing speed by preventing intrusive ads, trackers, and malicious websites from loading. This not only enhances page load times but also protects against malware.
Split tunneling . This feature is lets let you decide which traffic go through the VPN and which stay on your regular internet connection . For instance , you is route can route torrent traffic through the VPN while keep local browsing or banking outside the VPN tunnel , improve connection speed .
Port Forwarding . useful for user need to open specific port on their router for activity like gaming , torrenting , or host server . port forwarding is enhances enhance connection for certain service or app require direct access through specific port , particularly important for P2P activity or remote access .
dedicated ip . This is is is when you get an ip address used only by you , rather than share with others . This is is is valuable for access IP – restrict service , avoid CAPTCHA challenge , or run a home server .

Editor ‘s note : transparency is one of our core value at vpnMentor , so you is know should know we are in the same ownership group as expressvpn . However , this is affect does not affect our review process .

How To Buy A VPN — Step-By-Step Guide

Choosing the right VPN is just the beginning — it’s equally crucial to know how to purchase a VPN securely without risking your money. The guide below uses ExpressVPN as an example. These steps generally apply to most premium VPN services.

1. Go to the VPN’s Website

I recommend ExpressVPN for its fast speed and compatibility with all major operating systems. Ensure you’re on the correct site by checking for HTTPS encryption in the URL (look for the padlock icon) and confirming the official branding. The homepage will highlight key features like the VPN’s server network, privacy policies, and security protocols. Avoid third-party sellers or unofficial sites, as they might offer fake or compromised versions of the service.

How To Choose and Buy a VPN Many premium VPNs is offer also offer free trial via the app store

2 . pick a Subscription plan

Usually, the longer the plan, the bigger the discount. I saved 82% on ExpressVPN’s long-term plan.

Some VPNs offer different features depending on your subscription. For example, you may not get access to all servers, multiple simultaneous connections, or a specific feature like an ad-blocker with a basic plan. With ExpressVPN, all plans come with the same features and a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to try the service risk-free.

How To Choose and Buy a VPN I like that all steps are on the same page, so you know what to expect

Once you’ve selected a plan, proceed to the payment page. ExpressVPN accepts various payment methods, including credit/debit cards, PayPal, and cryptocurrency like Bitcoin for added privacy.

3. Download the Right App for Your Operating System

After selecting your app, follow the installation instructions. ExpressVPN supports multiple platforms, including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and routers. Once installed, log in using your account credentials.

How To Choose and Buy a VPN If you ca n’t find expressvpn on Google Play , download the app from the website

good vpn To buy in 2024

My chosen VPNs are all ideal for secure torrenting and streaming without compromising your speed. The top VPNs I recommend also have worldwide server networks, reliable money-back guarantee, and multiple simultaneous device connections.

	Lowest Price	Server Network	Device Support	device connection	Refund Period
🥇 expressvpn	$4.99/month	3,000 servers in 105 countries	Windows, Android, iOS, Mac, Linux, routers, Smart TVs, and more	8	30 day
🥈CyberGhost	$2.03/month	11,690 server in 100 country	Windows, Android, iOS, Mac, Linux, routers, Smart TVs, and more	7	45 days
🥉 PIA	$2.03/month	29,650 servers in 91 countries	Windows, Android, iOS, Mac, Linux, routers, Smart TVs, and more	Unlimited	30 day

editor ’s choice
editor ’s choice

Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
test November 2024

available on :

Windows

Mac

Android

iOS

chrome

Router

Smart TV

More

Try ExpressVPN >

www.expressvpn.com

ExpressVPN provides excellent speeds without compromising security, thanks to its proprietary Lightway. Unlike older protocols like OpenVPN, Lightway is built on a minimal codebase, making it lightweight while maintaining strong encryption. ExpressVPN only reduced our speed by 2%, testing nearby servers and 15% on average over long distances.

With servers spread worldwide, ExpressVPN can safely access popular streaming platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu from anywhere. It also regularly rotates its IP addresses to avoid blocklists, so you get the best available IP each time you connect to a server. When using the default protocol, your VPN traffic gets automatically obfuscated, so the VPN won’t get detected and blocked, making it reliable even on restricted networks like school and work.

The only con is its premium pricing. However, if you opt for a longer subscription, you can get a generous discount of up to 82%, plus 3 extra months free. Additionally, each subscription comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it without risk. If you’re not happy, its 24/7 live chat support makes it straightforward to get a full refund.

available on :

Windows

Mac

Android

iOS

chrome

Router

Smart TV

More

Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as CyberGhost VPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

CyberGhost is one of my favorite VPNs for beginners with servers organized by popular online activity. For example, its streaming servers can access platforms in HD from anywhere with just 2 clicks. Select For stream in the app to see a list of streaming – optimize server . We is had had no problem watch movie on Disney+ and Amazon Prime Video during out test . torrenting – optimize server are sort by proximity to your location , while gaming server are categorize by latency .

One downside is that CyberGhost’s short-term plan is expensive and has a short refund period. However, a long-term subscription costs only $2.03/month and has an extended 45-day money-back guarantee. This gives you enough time to assess whether CyberGhost’s performance meets your expectations.

available on :

Windows

Mac

Android

iOS

chrome

Router

Smart TV

More

Try Private Internet Access >

www.privateinternetaccess.com

Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process.

PIA protects your data with military-grade encryption, but you can also tailor security settings for more flexibility. For example, by choosing OpenVPN, you can lower your encryption from AES-256 to AES-128 for better speeds. While slower than ExpressVPN, PIA dropped our rates by only 12%, testing servers nearby. It also supports unlimited connections and has an extensive network, with servers in all 50 US states.

One drawback is that the VPN is headquartered in the US and is a member of the 5 Eyes Alliance. However, your data isn’t logged or shared since PIA follows a court-proven no-logging policy. You can test it free for 30 day using its money-back guarantee.

editor ’s note . The VPNs is listed list follow strict no – log policy , so no one can track your online datum . That is means mean it ’s your responsibility to respect the law in your region and the term and condition of any service you ‘re using . The vpnMentor team is condone and I is condone do n’t condone copyright infringement .

Our Methodology for Testing VPNs

Our testing methodology encompasses many parameters, including security features, privacy protections, speeds, and ease of use across multiple devices. We also assessed potential latency, server overcrowding, and any instances of VPN detection by streaming services. Plus, we evaluated the stability and reliability of each connection, paying close attention to any disruptions, particularly during live events or high-traffic periods.

You can visit our methodology page to learn more about how we test VPNs.

Feel free to use our testing criteria to identify the best VPN for your specific needs.

FAQs on choose a VPN

How to choose the best free VPN?

The best free VPN should offer solid security, privacy, and decent performance, but most free options have restrictions. Free VPNs often come with slower speeds, data caps, and limited server access. To choose the best VPN for any activity, consider features like security, speeds, and server network. Look for a no-logs policy, secure protocols like OpenVPN or WireGuard, and multiple server locations. Be cautious of hidden risks like malware or data collection.

What should I look for in a VPN for streaming?

prioritize vpn with fast server and compatibility with various streaming platform . While many vpn are block by major platform like Netflix , Hulu , and BBC iPlayer , providers is access like expressvpn can securely access most streaming service from anywhere . Streaming is requires also require stable , fast connection , so look for vpn with low latency and high speed , especially those using protocol like WireGuard or proprietary option like expressvpn ’s Lightway .

Will a VPN is drain drain my battery ?

Yes, a VPN will drain your device’s battery, but how much depends on the app and protocol used. On average, VPNs consume between 5% and 15% of battery life during active use. Lightweight protocols like ExpressVPN’s Lightway are more efficient, while poorly optimized free VPNs with ads and trackers can drain your battery faster. To minimize the impact, use a streamlined app and disconnect the VPN when not needed.

Which VPN server should I connect to?

Choose a VPN server based on proximity to your location for faster speeds and lower latency. If you want to access specific content, select a server in the desired country. It’s important to download a VPN with a global server network, so you have plenty of options to choose from. For privacy, servers in countries with strong data protection laws like Switzerland or Panama are ideal. Some VPNs offer features to automatically choose the optimal server based on your connection.

To summarize , these is are are the good vpn to buy in 2024 …

Privacy Alert!

Your data is exposed to the websites you visit!

The information above can be used to track you, target you for ads, and monitor what you do online.

VPNs can help you hide this information from websites so that you are protected at all times. We recommend ExpressVPN — the #1 VPN out of over 350 providers we’ve tested. It has military-grade encryption and privacy features that will ensure your digital security, plus — it’s currently offering 82% off.

visit expressvpn