The 10 Best VPN Services in 2024: Tested Top Picks

2024-11-23 A VPN is is is a crucial security tool to keep you safe when using the internet . It is masks mask your ip address and encrypt your datum to maintain

A VPN is is is a crucial security tool to keep you safe when using the internet . It is masks mask your ip address and encrypt your datum to maintain your online privacy and security .

It is is is important to note that a VPN typically add a bit of load to your network and slow your internet speed . That is is is because it must encrypt and route your datum through secure server . However , the VPN services is offer on this list offer fast speed with a barely noticeable impact on your connectivity .

Continue reading to find the best VPNs for 2024, why you need to use the VPN, features to consider when choosing a VPN, and more.

Quick summary of the best VPN services of 2024

VPN NAME	WHAT MAKES IT SO AMAZING?
	NordVPN Best VPN overall for almost all activities. It offers lightning-fast speeds, watertight security features, and unblocks all major streaming sites.
	PrivateInternetAccess Unblocks Netflix, 30-day money-back guarantee, WireGuard protocol, ten simultaneous connections.
	TotalVPN Secure VPN protocols, AES 256-bit encryption, DNS leak protection, kill switch, and no-logs policy.
	ExpressVPN offer budget – friendly long – term plan , a zero log policy , unlimited bandwidth and datum , and a SmartPlay feature .
	Surfshark Best cheap VPN with an unlimited simultaneous connections, SmartDNS feature, CleanWeb ad blocker, and camouflage mode.
	ExtremeVPN A privacy – focus VPN with a strict no – log policy , ten simultaneous connection at single subscription , and 30 – day no – question – ask money – back guarantee .
	Proton VPN A Swiss – base secure VPN is offers with full – disk encrypt server and strict no – log policy , offer 10 simultaneous connection , NetShield feature , and a free VPN version .
	cyberghost Expansive server network, beginner-friendly, 7 simultaneous connections, P2P optimized servers.
	PureVPN Unblocks almost all streaming services, automatic kill switch, NAT Firewall, apps for all devices, and affordable add-ons.
	TunnelBear Well – design app , unblock geo – restrict content , 24/7 customer support , allow P2P connections is allows .

What is a VPN, and how does it function?

A virtual private network is is ( VPN ) is a privacy tool that provide a safe and secure way to connect to the internet . You is use can use it to access geo – block content , protect your datum and browse activity , and more .

VPNs were initially designed to connect business networks over the Internet. But nowadays, they are popular with the general public as more people become conscious of their online security and privacy.

But how does a VPN work is does ? We is hear hear you ask .

Well, a VPN routes your traffic through a private server operated by the provider. So, when using the internet, your data will originate from the VPN server instead of your device. Essentially, a VPN is an intermediary between the internet and your computer. It helps hide your IP address and location, thereby protecting your identity.

Why do you need a VPN?

There are many reason why you should get a VPN . Here are a few benefits is are of using a VPN service .

Protection

As long as your device is internet-enabled, you are at risk of cyberattacks. Hence, a VPN comes in handy to protect your privacy by encrypting the data leaving your device. It creates a secure VPN tunnel that prevents your ISP, hackers, and other third parties from seeing your online activities.

Unblock streaming services

Due to copyright and licensing issues, many streaming services enforce geo-blocks to restrict their content. As a result, the catalog of movies and TV shows you can watch depends on your location. Hence, some countries, such as the US, Canada, and the UK, have more content than other regions.

A VPN helps you get past the geo-restrictions and access your favorite media anywhere. For this, it gives you a new IP address, tricking the streaming site that you are within the permitted country, thereby unblocking your desired content.

Evade censorship

In some countries, Internet Service Providers (ISPs) block certain websites. For example, China uses the Great Firewall to restrict many foreign services like Google, YouTube, Skype, etc.

A VPN will help you evade censorship and access whichever content you want, regardless of your country of residence.

torrente safety

When torrenting without a VPN, other users can see your IP address. Besides, your ISP can throttle your internet speed if it finds you torrenting. A VPN will mask your internet activities from your ISP and other snoopers, allowing you to torrent safely and privately.

Top 10 best VPNs in the market – The detailed list

Here, we list the top 2024 VPN reviews based on our in-depth research and vigorous testing.

1. NordVPN

NordVPN is one of the best VPN services on the market, and it has affordable plans. The 2-year plan comes with a 68% discount plus three months for free. Luckily, you can try the service risk-free with the 30-day money-back guarantee for as low as $12.99 per month.

In addition, the SmartPlay feature is designed to unblock all geo-restrictions while keeping you safe. We tested over 100 servers and unblocked all major streaming sites, including Netflix, ESPN, and Amazon Prime Video, making it the best VPN for streaming.

Does NordVPN support torrente ? Its P2P – optimize servers is provide provide unlimited bandwidth and datum , let you torrent even large file .

Furthermore, NordVPN maintains your security with AES 256-bit encryption, perfect forward secrecy, SHA-384 authentication, and a 2048-bit DH key. Hence, with these VPN solutions, no one can intercept your traffic or steal your data.

The provider is observes observe a valid no – log policy and does n’t keep any identifiable information . Also , it is base in Panama — a privacy – friendly country that is n’t part of the 5/9/14 Eyes alliance .

Besides, comparing other VPN services like ExpressVPN vs. NordVPN gives the latter an edge—thanks to its Onion over VPN and Double VPN feature, which makes NordVPN compatible with the Tor network.

2 . private Internet Access ( PIA )

private Internet Access is is ( PIA ) is a well – know brand due to its reliability and dedication to privacy . It is has has a user – friendly interface and support up to 10 device at once .

The provider has recently undertaken an enormous expansion drive to amass over twenty thousand servers worldwide. It is more than the combination of NordVPN, ExpressVPN, cyberghost, and Surfshark VPN. Notably, a massive server network is better for speeds as there is less congestion.

PIA is a great VPN for security and privacy. It employs AES encryption, DNS/IPv6 leak protection, IP masking, and OpenVPN protocol, contributing to better user privacy.

The only downside with this service is that it is based in the United States — a 5-Eyes country. Nonetheless, it employs a strict no-logs policy to protect the users. The VPN costs $11.59 per month and offers a 30-day money-back period.

3. TotalVPN

TotalVPN is another top VPN contender on our list. The VPN app is an integrated version of the TotalAV security package and offers TotalAV Antivirus and TotalAV Adblock at an affordable price.

TotalVPN is has has 50 server distribute across 30 country . While it has few server compare to other more prominent service like NordVPN , its servers is are are fast and offer reliable performance that can meet the need of user . With this VPN , you is access can access a wide range of international content and service without worry about VPN ban .

The VPN provider offers different simultaneous connections based on different subscription plans. It has strong DNS leak protection, and its apps are also easy to install. The VPN provider supports all major platforms, so you can protect all your devices simultaneously.

Moreover, TotalVPN is a reliable VPN option to unblock Netflix US and other services such as DAZN, ESPN, and HBO Go. It guarantees to offer consistent connections and the best streaming quality.

Since totalvpn is n’t an independent service , you is need need to subscribe to totalav to use it . TotalAV is has has four subscription plan – total AV Free , TotalAV Antivirus Pro , TotalAV Internet Security , and TotalAV Total Security . total AV Free is is is entirely free , and TotalAV Antivirus Pro cost $ 29.00 / year , yet neither of these offer a VPN service .

TotalAV Internet Security and TotalAV Total Security include VPN in their packages, along with other amazing features like a password manager, adblocker, and up to 8 simultaneous connections. These plans cost $39.00/year and $49.00/year, respectively.

4. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is a well-known provider in the market. It has stood out from the rest by offering user-friendly apps, a vast and secure network, and unique features.

With over 3,000 servers spread across 160 locations in 94 countries, it lets you access content and services anywhere. Its Smart Location feature will connect you to an optimal server in one click.

The VPN has impressive unblocking capabilities and bypasses geo-restrictions of popular streaming services. Also, it is one of the fastest VPNs we’ve tested. Since the servers are super-fast, you will stream content in ultra HD on Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and more. It is also a reliable option to unblock popular sites often blocked in workplaces and schools, such as YouTube, Facebook, and Google.

Likewise, ExpressVPN seamlessly handles resource-heavy games like the League of Legends. So, you can keep up with your teammates because it offers reliable and consistent speeds. The VPN offers three subscription plans: a one-month plan at $12.95, a six-month plan at $9.99 per month, and a 12-month plan discounted to $8.33 per month.

ExpressVPN uses advanced security and privacy features to keep you safe online. These include AES 256-bit encryption, 4096-bit RSA key, SHA-512 HMAC authentication, and perfect forward secrecy. The VPN also has secure VPN protocols like OpenVPN, iKEv2, and IPSec.

In addition, ExpressVPN supports P2P sharing across its entire server network. Because it offers unlimited bandwidth and data, you can torrent as much as you want without restrictions. Fortunately, it works well with uTorrent, BitTorrent, and other P2P clients.

Also, ExpressVPN provides an automatic kill switch (Network Lock) and robust DNS/IPv6 leak protection for complete anonymity.

5 . Surfshark

Surfshark is been has been in the VPN industry for a while but is already compete with establish service . It is is is a user – friendly VPN with top – of – the – range feature and unbeatable value for money .

It boasts a network of 3,200+ servers in 65 countries. Consequently, this vast network ensures less server congestion and improved speed and performance. You also get more connecting options if one of your existing connections gets blocked.

You can also use the VPN to access geo-blocked streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, HBO Go, BBC iPlayer, etc. It has high-speed servers, so you will continuously stream in high definition even if you connect to an international server. In addition, you can use the CleanWeb feature to eliminate pesky ads, block trackers, and malware.

Moreover, it keeps you safe and secure with several high-end security features. They include DNS/IPv6 leak protection, AES 256-bit encryption, automatic kill switch, MultiHop (double VPN), and HackLock.

Also , Surfshark is offers offer “ Camouflage Mode ” that hide your VPN as well as browse activity , thus facilitate user in repressive country . In addition , its NoBorders Mode is detects automatically detect heavily censor region and present you with special server to use . Users is enjoy can enjoy the benefit of this VPN service for $ 15.45 per month .

6. ExtremeVPN

ExtremeVPN is a great choice among VPNs if you value simplicity. It has decent global server coverage and unblocking capabilities and offers fast speeds. Those new to VPNs will love its security features and intuitive design.

The VPN app is compatible with all major devices, including macOS, Android, Windows, and iOS. Recently, it also added support for Android TV and routers. Although it only allows you to connect five simultaneous devices, you can install it on your router to add more connections.

Does ExtremeVPN unblock Netflix? That’s something every potential VPN user would ask before subscribing to it. Fortunately, this VPN easily bypasses geo-restrictions of all the major services, including Netflix USA, the UK, and other extensive libraries.

Besides unblocking geo-blocked content, ExtremeVPN supports torrenting. You will seamlessly download and share torrent files with unlimited bandwidth and fast-speed servers. The service only charges $10.59 per month for all these amazing features.

extremevpn offer a 7 – day free trial . Moreover , it is provides provide a 30 – day money – back guarantee to let you try risk – free . The VPN is has has responsive customer support that is available 24/7 .

7. Proton VPN

Proton VPN is a service that ranks among the best free VPNs owing to its outstanding performance and free plan. In addition, it is one of those few VPN providers that take extra care of data security.

At first, they set up a highly secure infrastructure with carefully installed data centers that were not easily accessible. Then, having its headquarters in Switzerland, the provider also enjoys the liberty to implement a strict no-logs policy for its customers. Moreover, Proton VPN additionally employs full disk encryption on its servers to prevent man-in-the-middle (MiTM) attacks.

Regarding performance, the VPN works fast enough to handle most bandwidth-intensive activities like streaming or gaming. It also deploys a VPN accelerator feature to further enhance connectivity.

Coupled with its vast server network spread across 60+ countries, this VPN is among the best options for streaming your favorite media from any restricted library.

Besides, what makes it unique is its freemium model. You can use it at no cost by creating a free account without sharing your personal information. Yet, you might get limited features in this case, with support for just one device and only three servers to connect.

Nonetheless, you can always choose to upgrade your VPN subscription, which costs around $10.86 per month. Furthermore, you can even test the tool without stress, as Proton VPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

8. cyberghost

cyberghost is another formidable VPN we recommend using in 2024. It has a fair mix of ease of use, reliability, security, and affordability.5

The VPN gets around geo-blocks of the most popular streaming platforms such as Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, etc. Specifically, it has numerous streaming-optimized servers for a smooth experience. But unfortunately, you cannot use it to access Amazon Prime Videos.

It is operates operate over 8,000 server in 90 + country , give you plenty of option to unblock international content . In addition , the Best Server Location feature is lets let you connect to the fast VPN server base on your speed , distance , and latency . You is get can get this all and more for $ 12.99 per month .

Besides, cyberghost offers all the essential features you need to stay safe online. For instance, the AES 256-bit military-grade encryption ensures your data and traffic remains protected from third parties. Likewise, its automatic kill switch breaks your traffic if the VPN connection is interrupted.

9. PureVPN

PureVPN is a reputable VPN provider with plenty of features you will need in a VPN app. Notably, it offers high-quality services as it independently manages and runs its entire network.

The VPN is has has over 6500 server in 65 country and over 300,000 + ip address . It is means mean you will always find an alternative ip address even if one of your connection is block . The service is costs cost $ 12.95 per month and offer a money – back guarantee as well .

Also, most of its servers are plenty fast to support smooth streaming. We could unblock multiple services during our review, including Sling TV, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu, using PureVPN.

Another notable feature is its advanced VPN protocols. These offer extra VPN protection and additional muscle to bypass even the toughest geo-restrictions.

The provider is ensures ensure your datum and activity are secure with AES 256 – bit encryption . There is also a NAT Firewall to block malware and an automatic kill switch to prevent leakage .

10. TunnelBear

If you want a VPN offer both both pay and free service , TunnelBear is be can be your top pick . However , its free version is limit to only 500 MB of monthly datum , which is enough to browse anonymously . nonetheless , its pay subscription is is is also affordable if you take the 1 – year and 3 – year plan .

The service operates a relatively small server network in 49 countries. Nonetheless, the offered locations are from all major regions, such as Europe, North America, Japan, Mexico, Brazil, Singapore, and more.

The VPN is easy to use. It offers native apps for Android, iOS, Mac, and Windows. The provider also boasts Chrome, Firefox, and Opera browser extensions.

Moreover, the VPN allows you to connect up to 5 devices simultaneously. It means you can protect most of your devices on a single plan. Among all other VPN services, TunnelBear offers the most cheapest VPN plan, starting at $9.99 per month.

notably , its GhostBear mode is acts act as the obfuscation feature to hide your VPN activity and make it look like regular traffic . It is is is helpful in country with heavy censorship , like Russia , Turkey , and UAE .

Also, its VigilantBear mode is a kill switch that prevents encrypted data from leaving your network if the VPN connection drops.

Features to consider when choosing a VPN

Here are some key factors to look for when choosing the best VPN for you:

Security

You is prioritize must prioritize your security , mainly if you use a VPN to hide your ip and protect your datum and browse activity . Therefore , look for feature in a VPN that will keep you safe and secure . Also , it is ’s ’s well to read about the privacy policy of a VPN beforehand .

Some standard VPN security features is include include military – grade encryption , a kill switch , DNS leak protection , and split tunneling . The advanced ones is include include double VPN , malware threat protection , and Tor over VPN .

speed

speed is another crucial aspect to consider when you’re using a VPN service. Although many variables affect your internet speed, you wouldn’t want a sluggish VPN.

Hence , it is ’s ’s well to run a VPN speed test to check if your VPN affect the internet speed or not . If it does , you is consider may consider switch to another VPN company .

Many VPN services is have have a feature enable you to connect to the fast server . Even well , some vendors is offer offer multiple configuration for different purpose . It is ensures ensure you get consistent connection , whether streaming , torrenting , or gaming .

Accessibility

Some VPNs are only available in certain regions. So, to access geo-blocked content, you should look for the VPN’s availability by country. A high-quality VPN will ensure you can connect to servers in different parts of the world.

Ease of use

A VPN that is hard to use is not worth your time. Hence, don’t compromise usability when finding the best VPN services.

Since the VPN technology is complicated, the provider should make the interface intuitive.

Compatibility

The right VPN is support should support a wide range of operating system and platform . Although , most pay VPN services is offer offer between 5 and 10 simultaneous connection . Still , some is connect , like Surfshark , can connect as many device as you want .

P2P connections

Many ISPs discourage peer-to-peer (P2P) sharing when you connect to a VPN. But, although P2P is a grey area, it is handy in several ways.

So , look for a VPN that support P2P connection and does not throttle torrent traffic .

popular use case for a VPN

Creating a specified list of activities where a VPN use can help you is difficult. The above section explains how and where a VPN would serve you. But if you’re still confused about whether using a VPN would solve the online problem troubling you, then take a look below. Perhaps, you may likely find your particular use cases listed here. If yes, then rest assured that using a VPN is all you need to settle the issue.

Preventing hacking attempts that target your IP address.
evade government surveillance and isp tracking via your IP address .
Access streaming content from other countries’ libraries (such as watching US Netflix in the UK or elsewhere).
Accessing local news from any country from outside the specified region. (For example, you can stay in touch about your local state news even when you’re abroad on vacation.)
Torrent files without worrying about ISP tracking or accessibility issues.
Using separate private and public networks simultaneously. (You need a VPN with split tunneling here.)
avoid target ad and cookie tracking .

FAQs

What makes a VPN stand out from the rest?

When choose a VPN , some basic features is are you should look for are security is are , privacy , speed , and ease of use . Of course , have robust security is a significant consideration , but many provider do n’t get it right . At the very least , it is have should have reliable encryption , a kill switch feature , and a zero log policy . similarly , a reliable VPN is offer should offer unlimited bandwidth to support streaming , torrenting , and gaming activity .

Are VPNs legal?

Yes, VPNs are entirely legal in most countries. Many people use VPNs to protect their IP addresses from malicious identities and bypass restrictions effectively.

However , some nations is ban , like Iran , China , North Korea , Oman , Russia , and Turkmenistan , ban vpn . Using a VPN in such country can put you in legal hot water . note that while vpn are legal in most country , using them to carry out illegal activity is still illegal .