The best VPN service 2024

VPN apps running on various devices during TechRadar's testing

Protecting your online privacy and security is more important now than it ever has been. To keep your sensitive information private, stay anonymous online, or bypass geo-restrictions to access blocked content – whether that's for streaming or censorship reasons – using a trustworthy VPN (virtual private network) is crucial for all your digital devices.

That's where TechRadar can help. We've rigorously tested every major VPN service out there to bring you this comprehensive guide to the best VPNs available today. On this page, you'll find quick recommendations, in-depth analyses of the top options, and detailed speed test comparisons.

Scroll down to discover the best VPN for your needs, and understand why we recommend these specific services over many others in what is now an incredibly crowded market.

5 best VPNs: quick overview

If you're looking for quick answers, we've put together this brief overview of our top five VPN picks. You'll find in-depth analysis of each one directly below.

1. NordVPNThe best VPN overall

1. NordVPN – from $3.09 per month
The best VPN overall
NordVPN is our top recommendation as the best VPN for most people. With easy-to-use apps, bulletproof security, loads of features, and some of the fastest speeds around, it covers all the bases. Plus, it unblocks pretty much any streaming service you care to try. Nord also offers fantastic value for money at $3.09 per month if you're happy to sign up for two years, making it significantly cheaper than its nearest competitor, ExpressVPN. Alternatively, you can try it out risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee if you're not ready to commit. 

Learn more below ▼

2. ExpressVPNThe best VPN for beginners

2. ExpressVPN – from $6.67 per month
The best VPN for beginners
ExpressVPN excels in ease of use. It does everything for you, so it's perfect for anyone who's worried that VPNs might be a bit complicated to use. However, that extra slick simplicity comes at a price: it's double the cost of NordVPN, starting at $6.67 per month on the 12-month plan. As with Nord and Surfshark, though, you can take advantage of a 30-day money-back guarantee to give it a demo. 

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3. SurfsharkThe best cheap VPN (and also the fastest)

3. Surfshark – from $2.19 per month
The best cheap VPN (and also the fastest)
If you want a VPN that's as budget-friendly as it is high-quality, Surfshark is your ideal option and we highly recommend it. It's consistently been the fastest service out there over the last 12 months, and it unblocks every leading streaming service we reviewed. It's also extremely user-friendly and, crucially, it's available from just $2.19 per month on the two-year plan. The cheap price doesn't shed any of the security either, making it a no-brainer if you want something budget-friendly and easy but also reliable. And like the options above, Surfshark offers a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can try before you buy. 

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4. Private Internet Access
The best VPN for Linux and torrenting

4. Private Internet Access – from $2.03 per month
The best VPN for Linux and torrenting
PIA is one of the oldest and most respected names in the industry, and I recommend it for anyone looking to torrent securely, as well as anyone who's using Linux. It's available for $2.03 per month but to get that price you do have to sign up for two years. With a dedicated GUI for most Linux distros, and advanced options like port forwarding, it's the go-to pick for a VPN power user – and if you need reassurance, it's proven its no-logs policy in court (twice). 

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5. PrivadoVPN The best free VPN

5. PrivadoVPN – paid version from $1.48 per month
The best free VPN
We don't recommend that most people opt for a free VPN, mainly because there are so many drawbacks. For a start, they don't reliably unblock streaming services, there are fewer server locations to choose from and they usually only allow one device to connect at a time. They also have strict data limits, and are almost always less secure and trustworthy with your data. However, if you're only planning to use a VPN sparingly, or one time for something trivial, Privado is the best of the free options. 

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VPN reviews

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

Recent updates

As we come to the end of our latest round of testing, we thought it best to bust out the camera. Alongside some updates to our speed test results, we've also updated our testing images to show you what each VPN's apps look like. If you want to see our latest VPN test results, we'll show you all the data from the hundreds of tests we conduct for each VPN service.

The best VPN overall

NordVPN apps running on various devices during TechRadar's testingTechRadar Editor's Choice award logo

1. NordVPN

Reliable and cheap, with an enormous array of features

App support: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, web browsers, and more | Server locations: 140 | Server countries: 111 | Customer support: 24/7 email support, live chat, and knowledge hub | Simultaneous connections: 10 | Refund period: 30 days

Accesses every streaming site
Super-fast VPN speeds
Tailored pricing plans
Dedicated torrenting servers
Packed with features
Apps aren't as easy to use as ExpressVPN or Surfshark

NordVPN tops our VPN rankings by offering an unmatched blend of features, speed, unblocking, and value for money. Not only is it half the price of ExpressVPN, it also has more features compared to Surfshark. They're its two nearest rivals, making Nord a no-brainer for most people.

OK, it's not quite the fastest VPN or cheapest VPN (in our testing those awards go to Surfshark), and it doesn't have the absolute best apps (see Express). But as an all-round package, we wholeheartedly view Nord as the best balance of everything.

Features

NordVPN offers all the industry-standard features you'd expect from a modern, top-tier VPN service. Log into the app, select a location, and you can connect to servers all over the world instantly – encrypting all your web traffic and changing your IP address in the simple click of a button. It's easy to use, even for beginners, and has all the advanced features you'd expect if you're more experienced.

With a kill switch and an auto-connect function, you'll automatically connect to a VPN server when you boot it up, and if the connection drops, Nord will automatically quarantine your internet traffic. That's essential if you don't want your location or identity leaking out by accident.

You can even choose what you don't want going through the VPN, thanks to split tunneling. For example, in our testing, we found that it's great for using Android Auto and Apple Car Play without having to turn your VPN off.

But there's so much more than just a fast and reliable connection – NordVPN sports an impressive suite of additional privacy, security, and usability features. There's Threat Protection, which protects you by blocking malicious websites and scanning downloads for malware. Threat Protection has now been split into Pro and Lite, with Pro offering even more features that go well beyond the standard DNS-based blocking. However, bear in mind that while this is a great tool, if you get a virus on your device you'll need a dedicated antivirus to remove it. Nord's core DNS-based blocker is only preventative, not curative.

Alongside this is NordVPN's dark web monitoring, which scans the dark web for your credentials and email address to ensure they haven't been compromised. There are obfuscated servers that can disguise your VPN usage, and a feature called SmartPlay to help you access streaming content when you're not in your home country.

If you want to upgrade to a more expensive plan, you'll get even more features and tools to play with, such as:

Expert Verdict: NordVPN
Andreas Theodorou Editor-in-Chief Tech Software
Expert Verdict: NordVPN
Andreas Theodorou

I think NordVPN is going to be more than enough for most people. Its potent combination of pricing, features, speed, and reliability makes it the best all-around service out there and performs consistently well in our regular testing. If you've got specific needs and uses in mind, I'd recommend checking out our more focused buying guides, but if you're just after everyday protection and Netflix unblocking, but you're unsure which VPN to get, my advice is to trust Nord.

★★★★½

Read more: NordVPN review

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FeaturesIn briefScores
UsabilityGreat for new users, but more work is needed to make it easier to set up advanced configurations★★★★
SpeedOne of the fastest VPNs on the market, maxing out my testing line★★★★★
StreamingUnblocked everything we threw at it, every time we tried★★★★★
TechnicalA privacy-first approach that's supported with clear investment in improving the security of its apps★★★★★
SupportFriendly, supportive and professional★★★★★
ValueIt's the best VPN at one of the best prices★★★★

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The best VPN for beginners

ExpressVPN apps running on a laptop and mobile during TechRadar's testing

2. ExpressVPN

Does all the hard work for you, no matter what

App support: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, web browsers, and more | Server locations: 163 | Server countries: 105 | Customer support: 24/7 email support, live chat, and knowledge hub | Simultaneous connections: 8 | Refund period: 30 days

Super simple apps
Great for streaming
Automatically configures everything
Leading the industry for security
More server locations than other VPNs
Lets parents block adult sites
Double the cost of NordVPN
Light on additional features
Not as fast as NordVPN and Surfshark

A significantly higher monthly subscription price and a more limited feature set compared to NordVPN hold ExpressVPN back from the top of our list, but it's got plenty to offer anyone in the market for a VPN.

It's a strong choice if you're concerned about keeping your data safe online, with a widespread selection of servers to pick from, robust security tools and protocols, and excellent speed results. But the main reason we love it so much is because it undoubtedly has the most user-friendly apps of any other service, so it's a brilliant option if you're new to VPNs or confused about the technology.

For the more security-minded user, its hard to argue with ExpressVPN's offering. Not only does Express have its own bespoke VPN protocol in Lightway, it also offers all the main features provided by Nord, including auto-connect and a safety net-providing kill switch. 

ExpressVPN calls its kill switch tech Network Lock. It ensures you can only access the internet via the VPN's secure connection, and blocks all traffic should the VPN connection drop for any reason, preventing any of your data from being leaked online.

Features

ExpressVPN comes with more than just strictly privacy-focused features. There are plenty of additional tools to make your internet experience just that bit more streamlined.

It comes with a built in ad-blocker, which can tame some of the more annoying aspects of the internet, and help you save precious mobile data that would otherwise be wasted loading video and banner ads.

There's also an optional password manager called ExpressVPN Keys that you can use if you don't already have one (here's why you might want to). These days, where everyone has a hundred different accounts, a password manager is an essential tool – making it easier to log into each different site, while keeping your details secret and safe at the same time.

Expert Verdict: ExpressVPN
Andreas Theodorou Editor-in-Chief Tech Software
Expert Verdict: ExpressVPN
Andreas Theodorou

With the easiest-to-use apps and a hyper-focus on your privacy and security, I think ExpressVPN is the best choice for anyone looking for absolute security, with none of the hard work. You'll have to be OK with paying that little bit extra, though. If not, you're better off choosing either Nord or Surfshark, both of which cost less than half the price. 

★★★★½

Read more: ExpressVPN review

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FeaturesIn briefScores
FeaturesAn automated one-click connect means you get the safest, fastest protection possible – without having to configure it yourself★★★★★
SpeedFast enough for streaming, online gaming, and torrenting, with a big focus on low-latency bandwidth★★★★
StreamingConsistently unblocks every site and region we test★★★★★
TechnicalExpressVPN's teams are constantly improving the industry, but a recent DNS leak (now fixed) caused a stir★★★★
SupportAlways available, friendly, and helpful★★★★★
ValueAn expensive option, but if you want something you can stake your life on, it's worth every penny★★

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The best cheap VPN service

Surfshark VPN apps running on a laptop and mobile during TechRadar's testing

3. Surfshark

As effective as it is cheap – and it's very cheap

App support: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, web browsers, and more | Server locations: 143 | Server countries: 100 | Customer support: 24/7 email support, live chat, and knowledge hub | Simultaneous connections: Unlimited | Refund period: 30 days

The fastest VPN around
Unlimited device coverage
Packed with features
Offers a real antivirus
Perfect streaming scores
The kill switch isn't reliable
Unclear virtual server locations
No notification if your connection drops

Surfshark isn't just our pick as the best cheap VPN, it's also a one-stop security suite. It has built-in ad-blocking, antivirus, tracker-free web browsing, and a data breach notifier built-in – not to mention a tool called Alternative ID, which generates a brand new identity and email address to use online to protect you from spam or having your details harvested. It's premium protection without the price. 

With one of the cheapest subscriptions in our list, Surfshark suits budget-conscious internet users who have a lot of devices they wish to protect and don't want to compromise on features, or try using one of the many free VPNs out there due to the restrictions they have on bandwidth and number of simultaneous connections.

Features

One of the crown jewels of Surfshark's features list is Incogni. This is a service that automates the process of requesting the deletion of personal data stored by data brokers and advertising companies. This gives users a chance to push back and reclaim at least some of their digital privacy from increasingly common and invasive data-tracking practices. 

Surfshark also offers other security features, such as Camouflage Mode, its implementation of obfuscated servers; and CleanWeb, its ad/tracker/malware blocking solution. It also offers unlimited simultaneous connections for busy households with lots of devices.

Expert Verdict: Surfshark
Andreas Theodorou Editor-in-Chief Tech Software
Expert Verdict: Surfshark
Andreas Theodorou

Surfshark is a perfect example of a premium service that doesn't make you feel like you've been mugged at the checkout. It always performs on par with Nord and Express in our tests, and it's always been my go-to pick for friends and family looking for a cheap VPN that actually works. Plus, at this price, it's hard to argue with its position at number 3 in my rankings. 

★★★★½

Read more: Surfshark review

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FeaturesIn briefScores
UsabilityA comfortable middle-ground between NordVPN and ExpressVPN★★★★
SpeedOne of the fastest providers around★★★★★
StreamingAnother full house – Surfshark keeps getting perfect scores in our unblocking tests★★★★★
TechnicalA much-improved antivirus tool, but the Windows kill switch can fail under very extreme circumstances★★★★
SupportSupport site has come a long way★★★★
ValueSo much for so little – no one else can match the value★★★★★

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The best VPN for Linux and torrenting

Private Internet Access VPN app running on a laptop during TechRadar's testing

4. Private Internet Access (PIA)

A low-cost VPN with a proven track record and loads of features

App support: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, web browsers, and more | Server locations: 100 | Server countries: 91 | Customer support: 24/7 email support, live chat, and knowledge hub | Simultaneous connections: Unlimited | Refund period: 30 days

Port forwarding makes for easy torrenting
No logs policy proven in court (twice)
Open source for anyone to scrutinize
Lots of control for power users
Overwhelming for beginners
Below-average speeds
Some large gaps between updates

It can be difficult to get a VPN client set up on Linux. The process often requires confidence with the command line interface (and if you don't know what that is, there's little need to read further).

This is why PIA is our top pick for Linux users, especially those who might be new to the platform. With an easy installation process and a full-featured GUI app, PIA makes using a VPN on Linux a breeze.

PIA is also excellent for power users who need a high degree of flexibility when it comes to installation and configuration. Getting into the settings can be a bit overwhelming for new users – there's a huge number of features on offer, more on that below. But if you don't need all that additional functionality, there's a nice, simple connect button to get you online.

Features

So, as well as an impressive GUI experience for Linux users, PIA offers a more-than-respectable array of additional features. There's support for an unlimited number of devices, split-tunneling to allow you to choose which apps use the VPN and which don't, and PIA Mace which is an ad/tracker/malware blocking tool. There's also multi-hop connections for additional security, obfuscated servers to hide your VPN usage completely, support for port-forwarding to optimize your torrent downloads, and more.

It's a good service, and one that has plenty of loyal, long-term customers, which is always a good sign. But for most users, we think this VPN is simply outmatched by the more appropriate options higher in our guide.

Expert Verdict: PIA
Andreas Theodorou Editor-in-Chief Tech Software
Expert Verdict: PIA
Andreas Theodorou

While PIA's speeds are nothing to write home about, it still shines as the best VPN for Linux users. The massive array of configurable features along with its proven track record make it the perfect choice for privacy purists. Couple that with a server in every state in the US, and you've got one of the most secure VPNs for Americans possible. With all of that in mind, it's a nightmare for beginners. If you're new to VPNs, I'd recommend steering clear of PIA until you're more comfortable with the technology. 

★★★★

Read more: Private Internet Access (PIA) review

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FeaturesIn briefScores
UsabilityNot the best for beginners, but great for advanced users★★★
SpeedGood speeds, but generally average compared to industry leaders★★★
StreamingDedicated streaming servers and an enormous global network help you unblock anything and everything★★★★★
TechnicalThe latest and greatest in VPN tech, and a proven no-logging policy★★★★★
SupportA mass of knowledge online and expert support on-hand at all times★★★★★
ValueBudget-friendly and offering plenty of features that would normally cost you twice as much★★★★★

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5. The best free VPN

PrivadoVPN running on an iPhone during TechRadar's VPN tests

5. PrivadoVPN

The best free VPN for occasional use

Available on: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Smart TVs | Refund period: 30 days | Number of servers: over 300 | Server locations: 66 | Free locations: 13

Excellent features, even on the free version
Fast WireGuard-powered apps
No security audits
Single-month plan is pricey
Fewer servers than Express, Nord and Surfshark

Perhaps you can't quite stretch to the cost of Surfshark's monthly subscription, or you don’t want to pay for two years all at once. There is an alternative to the other VPNs in this list, and that’s PrivadoVPN’s free plan. While it’s not the best choice if you plan to be online all the time, or do a lot of streaming or torrenting, it’s got a generous monthly bandwidth limit. And while it doesn’t match up to providers like NordVPN, it has a solid set of features if you want some basic added security when you're out and about away from home.

PrivadoVPN is going to suit someone who needs to use a VPN very occasionally and for trivial matters. We wouldn’t recommend it if you're seriously concerned about keeping your online identity and activities safe, but it’s a useful stopgap for anyone who doesn’t want to commit to a full VPN subscription.

Features

Like other free VPNs, PrivadoVPN can’t offer anywhere near the same sort of features as premium providers like NordVPN or ExpressVPN. There are no password managers, no obfuscated servers, and nothing like Surfshark’s Alternative ID or Incogni. 

You do, however, get an ad blocker to protect you from online advertising, a kill switch to protect your data in case of a problem with your VPN connection, and even split tunneling to enable you to decide which apps use the VPN and which don’t. It’s a decent offering for something that costs nothing at all, but doesn’t compete with the reliability you get with a paid subscription.

Expert Verdict: Privado VPN
Andreas Theodorou Editor-in-Chief Tech Software
Expert Verdict: Privado VPN
Andreas Theodorou

PrivadoVPN's offering is impressive for a free VPN, and while I wouldn't recommend it for everyday use due to the hit-and-miss performance with streaming providers and monthly bandwidth limit, it still fills a useful niche for occasional use. There's also a paid plan if you want to upgrade later, but if you're considering doing that, I'd still recommend going for one of the better options higher up on the list. 

★★★★

Read more: Privado Free review

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FeaturesIn briefScores
UsabilityEasy to use and clearly laid out★★★★
SpeedThe low end of average for a leading service, but generally fast enough for anything you could throw at it★★★
StreamingSome hiccups despite a dedicated unblocking team★★★
TechnicalGood scores on paper, but currently lacking an independent audit★★★
SupportDecent email support, but not a lot of of on-site help★★★
ValueNothing beats free★★★★★

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Also tested

To be able to recommend the best VPN services, we have to thoroughly review – and regularly re-review – all the major options, including the respected services below. 

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Proton VPN ★★★★
Proton has a long history of advocating for digital privacy, and regularly highlights censorship around the world through its VPN observatory. With fast servers, excellent unblocking, and a full suite of additional features, it's a popular option we'd be happy to recommend if it weren't for the better services above.

▶ Read more: Proton VPN review

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IPVanish ★★★★
A fast VPN with a decent track record for unblocking streaming services. It sits in the middle of the pack because we found its apps to be a little clunky.

▶ Read more: IPVanish review

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Windscribe ★★★★
A privacy-friendly service that doesn't believe in bells and whistles. It has an excellent free plan for you to get a taste of the service.

▶ Read more: Windscribe review

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CyberGhost ★★★★
Part of the Kape conglomerate, CyberGhost is a popular VPN that's good for beginners. Decent speeds and a high unblocking score make it a great pick for newcomers, but it's still not as good as our top picks.

▶ Read more: CyberGhost review

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Mullvad ★★★★
A major player in the industry, and a great advocate for privacy. Mullvad is one of the only VPNs that still lets you pay with cash for true anonymity.

▶ Read more: Mullvad review

VPNs to avoid

There are some VPN services that we've come across over the years, however, that stand out for all the wrong reasons. Here's a quick look at VPNs you should avoid.

Hola VPN

Hola VPN
Hola VPN lets other people use your IP address, along with some of your device's bandwidth and resources, as part of its Terms of Service. It also collects some concerning log data, including your "IP address, operating system, browser type, web pages you visit, time spent on those pages, access times and dates." This logging undermines the purpose of using a VPN for privacy.

Read more: Hola VPN review

XNXUBD VPN Browser

XNXUBD VPN Browser
We found two different websites for XNXUBD VPN Browser, and neither offers much clarity on how it operates. The two policies seem to apply separately: one to a website, another to the APK, and since we wrote Should you use XNXUBD VPN Browser, it has since changed its privacy policy to remove some elements. Without a privacy policy audit to verify this, along with the other red flags, I'd recommend steering clear of XNXUBD VPN Browser.

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Howdy VPN
Howdy VPN's privacy policy is almost verbatim as XNXUBD's privacy policy, and raises all the same concerns. Combined with the fact that it offers an SSL VPN connection, which is nowhere near as secure as a WireGuard or OpenVPN connection, and that it may be susceptible to the devastating TunnelVision attack, it's nowhere near as secure as our top recommendations.

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Planet Free VPN
Planet Free VPN's Privacy policy used to state that free plan users would be fed ads through Appodeal (and thus subject to its log-heavy privacy policy). After a conversation with us about why this was an issue, it later changed to Google before changing again to remove all mention of ad partners. However, without Planet Free VPN undergoing a privacy audit, it's hard to take this policy at face value.

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VPN speed test results:

Testing the performance of VPNs is about more than just the maximum download speed you can get. We're looking to see how reliable the network is, whether the speeds are consistent, and how they hold up for the most data-intensive tasks.

We look at download and upload speed, latency (the delay in sending your data), and jitter (the variation in delay – known as ping). We compare this over both short and long distances to see how these speeds differ and change. It's good to know how your VPN handles long-distance data transfers when you're unblocking content from abroad.

There are two main protocols we test:

  • WireGuard: the latest and greatest in VPN technology that's found rapid popularity thanks to its speed and simplicity. We also compare proprietary protocols like NordLynx and Lightway in our WireGuard speed tests, as both take inspiration from WireGuard, but aren't the same thing.
  • OpenVPN: more than two decades old, OpenVPN remains a popular choice for the most cautious individuals

Read more: what is a VPN protocol?

As we complete our current round of testing, we'll be expanding this section with more information. For now, though, check out the fastest download speed results:

Here are some screenshots from our latest speed tests.

You'll likely notice that some of these results are way over 950 Mbps, so you're probably wondering why we don't give those figures in our analysis. The answer is actually rather simple: we're testing on gigabit lines that are supposed to be capable of up to 1,000 Mbps. When we see results above that, it shows that our lines have been maxed out – so we cap our current test results at 950 Mbps.

We're currently in the process of building new speed testing tools with the help of leading VPN providers to give regular, more comprehensive speed testing data with 10 gigabit lines, so watch this space.

Read more: The fastest VPN for outright speed 2024

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How we test VPN services

VPNs are notoriously difficult to test properly. Their performance can vary a lot across different global locations and device types – and the figures from speed tests and other benchmarks tend to change over time as well, which means you need to re-test regularly to stay up-to-date. You’ve also got the fact that these VPN services are by their nature secretive black boxes, and so it’s hard to verify claims such as a no-logging policy.

Our process is to subject these VPN services to a custom array of tests designed to determine which ones to avoid – and which ones rise above all the other good ones and deserve a recommendation on this page.

Feature analysis: we begin by gathering as many technical details as possible about each VPN service, analyzing things like network size, server locations, and supported protocols and encryption methods. These features are compared and will then inform how we conduct our subsequent tests.

Privacy and security: we analyze and probe the privacy policies and encryption methods the service offers, and pay close attention to any independent security audits that the provider has undergone. If a provider does not submit to outside testing, that is usually a red flag. We’ll also run many of our own proprietary practical tests to verify crucially important features, such as DNS leak protection and the effectiveness of kill switches.

Performance testing: using multiple device types over a 1Gbps internet connection, we measure connection speeds multiple times at regular points during the course of a day (and regularly throughout the year), and we also check connection times, benchmark DNS queries, browse websites, look at video streaming performance, and generally evaluate the real-world experience of using each VPN.

Unblocking abilities: we test each services’ ability to unblock region-restricted content across global platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer and many more.

Support and reliability: we engage with the VPN services’ customer support offerings, such as live chat and email support. It’s important to look for responsiveness and effectiveness here, and we’ll also analyze the help sections on the providers’ own websites to see how easy they make it to troubleshoot issues.

You can read more about our testing process on our methodology page.

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How to choose a VPN

Make sure you choose the right VPN for your needs. I can't tell you which one that is – I can only show you the cream of the crop to help you make a more informed decision. But, if you're not quite sure what to look for, here are the most important considerations to help you find the best VPN:

Price: arguably the most important factor – make sure it's within your budget. Anything under $2.50/£2.50 per month is cheap, up to $4.50/£4.50 per month is about average, and anything over $5/£5 per month is on the expensive side. Don't forget, you'll pay the full subscription up-front, so keep that in mind before you get to the checkout. Whether you get a premium, cheap, or free VPN, just make sure it's safe.

Apps: does it have apps for your devices? If so, are the apps easy to use, or are they confusing and cluttered? The less you know about VPN tech, the simpler you want to go.

Features: does it have all the usual mod cons you'd expect from a VPN – a kill switch, auto-connect, split tunneling? If not, you may want to look elsewhere. What other value propositions does it have? Maybe you want a built-in password manager or an antivirus.

Security: is it meeting industry standards for encryption with WireGuard and OpenVPN? Is it offering quantum-secure key exchanges to protect you from future data breaches?

Privacy: does it have a no-logs policy, or does it just say it does? Some providers claim they're no logs, but in reality, they're just not logging a specific thing – and they're fleecing you elsewhere. You can find this information by looking at the VPN service's Privacy Policy. Take a look at the data collected when using the apps (not the site) and how that data is used. Remember: if there is even a shred of data being collected that could link back to you (like your IP address, any identifiers, or even browsing data), then you don't want to use that service.

Unblocking power: while most, if not all, VPNs will claim to unblock everything everywhere, only a few can actually put their money where their mouth is. If unblocking content is your priority, then get a VPN that's proven to work.

Performance: it's not just about download speeds, you want consistent and reliable connections that won't randomly drop or cause immense packet loss. If you find that a VPN is cutting your speeds by more than 20% I'd recommend checking your server, and if you're on the closest one (physically), I'd recommend trying a different service.

Server locations: are there servers in your area (or the area you want to unblock)? If so, are they physical or virtual servers? Virtual servers tend to be a bit of a gimmick, and will often become slow and congested, so if you see a provider saying they have tens of thousands of servers to pick from, just be wary. Remember, it's about quality, not quantity.

Customer support: is there live chat support or is it just an email ticketing system? I've seen it all, and the better the customer support, the more invested the VPN is in giving you a better experience. Look for good knowledge hubs filled with helpful articles and a diverse range of contact methods.

Money-back guarantee: these refund periods are ideal for giving a VPN a serious test drive without committing your cash. The industry standard is 30 days, but some providers offer more (like CyberGhost – 45 days). Check the provider's website before you buy and double-check the money-back guarantee, so you know how long you have to pull out if you're not 100% happy with it.

If you want to know more, we've got a whole guide on how to choose a VPN.

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Meet the team

Meet the experts behind our best VPN guide:

Andreas Theodorou Editor-in-Chief Tech Software
Andreas Theodorou

A privacy purist at heart, Andreas is a VPN expert who believes that the best VPN doesn't have to be the most expensive – it's about what's right for you. He tests Windows and Android VPN apps, picks apart privacy policies, and investigates the technical security of VPNs behind the scenes to uncover whether they're actually secure, or just saying they are. View author page

Mike Williams in the dark
Mike Williams

Mike is head-geek and has been our lead tester for years – he's responsible for our speed analysis, stream unblocking tests, and functionality testing. He'll find out if a kill switch won't hold up under stress, or whether or not your IP address is likely to leak out. Mike is always peeking behind the curtain to see how a VPN app is coded to unveil the truth of a VPN's build quality. He also tests VPN apps on Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, Apple TV, Fire stick, and Roku. View author page

River Hart Tech Software Editor
River Hart

River helps take care of cybersecurity content on TechRadar, with articles ranging from breaking news pieces and reviews to buying guides. Their goal is to help all our readers advocate for their digital privacy, and find the best VPN services and deals in the process. View author page

Chiara Castro, cybersecurity expert and VPN news reporter
Chiara Castro

Chiara keeps us on the cutting edge of news and product updates, reporting on rumblings in the industry, feature launches, and all things digital privacy. View author page

Frequently asked questions

What is a VPN?

virtual private network (VPN) is a tool that creates a secure and encrypted connection between you and another location on the internet. VPNs can be used to ensure privacy and security online by masking your IP address – and thus your location – and encrypting data that's transmitted to and from your device, making it impossible for third parties to intercept or track your activities.

Put simply, under normal services your ISP can monitor and track which websites you access and the data you're transferring. But using a VPN means no one can see your data or what you're doing online, and improves your security, privacy, and anonymity.

Do I need a VPN?

VPNs are (for the everyday person) a luxury that is better to have and not need, than to need and not have. They provide an extra layer of security in your day-to-day internetting, and they're handy for unblocking your favorite shows.

However, for some people, they're absolutely vital. Journalists, political activists, and people around the world use VPNs to protect themselves from oppressive governments, access foreign media, and learn and report on global truths. If you want to make sure you're able to evade censorship and propaganda while maintaining anonymity and privacy online, a VPN is non-negotiable.

Most people fall into the general security camp. You likely won't need to stake your life on a VPN, but if you want peace of mind in a rapidly progressing digital age, then a VPN can form a key part of your security measures.

Is a VPN easy to use?

It's super easy to use most VPN apps, regardless of your skill level, though some services are better-suited to newbies than others. All the VPNs we recommend on this page are easy to use. However, if you're looking for a straightforward setup and a simple UI, I'd recommend sticking to ExpressVPN. Its apps are sleek and simple, and the one-click connect feature will automatically match you with the best server.

What can you use a VPN for?

Be it streaming, gaming, or just protecting your privacy, the benefits of using a VPN massively outweigh the risks of not using one. Unblock your favorite shows, prevent hackers from stealing your data, and even buy things cheaper online, all by routing your internet through a VPN.

Which VPN protocol should you use?

There are a handful of VPN protocols on offer, and the one you choose depends on what you're using your VPN for. Most people can happily let their VPN app choose and never have to worry about it.

If speed is your top priority, and you want to strike a balance between performance and privacy (while unblocking international content), then WireGuard will work like a charm. We explain what that is in more detail over in our What is WireGuard article. 

For folks who want a super-secure VPN experience, OpenVPN is tried, tested, and the most reliable protocol available today (see our What is OpenVPN explainer for more. You can also see our other top recommendations for security in our most secure VPN provider guide). These settings are available inside the app of your provider.

Paid VPNs vs free VPNs – which should you get?

Free vs paid VPNs is an age-old debate. The reality is that most free VPNs aren't worth using, and even the best free VPNs come with limitations. Before you try a free service, I'd recommend taking advantage of money-back guarantees and free VPN trials from the best providers before taking a risk on a free plan. 

Are VPNs legal?

VPNs are legal in most places around the world – but the things you get up to online while using one can still break the law. A VPN isn't a 'get out of jail free' card. There are a few countries where the legality of VPN use gets tricky. If you're after a VPN for China, for example, you can only use government-appointed providers. Turkey has attempted to block VPN sites and servers that don't play ball with its laws, and some anti-VPN rules in the UAE and Oman could land users in hot water. Iraq, North Korea, and Turkmenistan, meanwhile, have banned VPNs outright.

How to check if your VPN is working

To check if your VPN is working like it should, you'll need to see if the IP address or DNS requests are leaking. Open up an incognito or private browsing window and search for "What is my IP address". Find an IP address checker and run the test before switching on your VPN – it'll tell you your original IP address. Then, close the window, connect to your VPN, open a new window, and run through the IP-checking test again. If you see the same IP address, your VPN might not be connected properly or experiencing a DNS leak.

How to reduce the cost of a VPN

First things first, head on over to our VPN deals hub for the biggest and best discounts of the month. If you're still on the fence about picking up a VPN, or want to try a few services before committing to one, the best way to slash the cost is to use money-back guarantees. Switching between the best providers and getting a refund will give you months of free protection while you find the best one.

Will a VPN slow my internet speed?

If you're using a fast VPN, then it shouldn't. While a VPN can't speed up your internet connection, it can prevent bandwidth throttling, and using a speedy service with a reliable network means you won't notice an impact to your browsing speeds.

Can I use a VPN for my business?

You can and you should. A business VPN is a great tool to protect your organisation, and the best ones even offer granular control so you can choose who can do what, and what they can't have access over. Just remember that business VPNs and consumer VPNs offer different levels of control.

More VPN buying advice

Disclaimer

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example: 1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service). 2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad. We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

Andreas Theodorou
Editor-in-Chief of Tech Software

Andreas has been with TechRadar as Future PLC's Editor-in-Chief of Tech Software since March 2023, supporting content and teams on VPNs, antivirus, and other cybersecurity tools. He's previously written for and led content at ProPrivacy, Business2Community, and The Tech Report. After completing a Master of Research degree, Andreas fell in love with all things cybersecurity; combining his passions to help expose the prevalence of ad tech in the charity sector and raise awareness of digital privacy around the world.

With contributions from