Best VPN Services in 2023
Our comprehensive guide to the top VPN services, based on security, speed, features, and value. We've tested each service to help you find the perfect VPN for your needs.
How We Rate VPN Services
Our reviews are based on extensive testing across multiple criteria, including security features, privacy practices, performance, ease of use, value, and customer support. Each VPN receives a score out of 10 based on these factors.
Security & Privacy
We evaluate encryption standards, leak protection, logging policies, jurisdiction, and independent audits.
Performance
We test download and upload speeds, latency, and consistency across different server locations.
Global Access
We assess server distribution, ability to bypass geo-restrictions, and performance in restrictive countries.
Ease of Use
We evaluate app interface, setup process, and user experience across different devices and platforms.
Value
We compare pricing plans, money-back guarantees, free trials, and feature-to-price ratio.
Features
We assess advanced features, simultaneous connections, specialized servers, and additional privacy tools.
Top VPN Services at a Glance
| VPN | Best For | Rating | Price | Servers | Countries | Devices | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | Overall Security | 9.8/10 | $3.09/mo | 7,150+ | 118 | 10 | View Details |
| ExpressVPN | Streaming & Global Access | 9.6/10 | $4.99/mo | 3,000+ | 105 | 8 | View Details |
| Surfshark | Value & Multiple Devices | 9.5/10 | $1.99/mo | 3,200+ | 100 | Unlimited | View Details |
| CyberGhost | Ease of Use & Beginners | 9.3/10 | $2.19/mo | 9,500+ | 91 | 7 | View Details |
| Private Internet Access | Advanced Users & Customization | 9.1/10 | $2.03/mo | 35,000+ | 84 | 10 | View Details |
Detailed Reviews
NordVPN
NordVPN offers excellent security features with fast speeds and a vast server network. Their double VPN and Onion over VPN features provide enhanced privacy.
Pros
- Double VPN for extra encryption
- No-logs policy verified by multiple audits
- Excellent speeds with NordLynx protocol
- Specialized servers for different needs
- Strong unblocking capabilities for streaming
Cons
- Desktop app can be resource-intensive
- No free version available
Key Features
- 7,150+ Servers
- 118 Countries
- 10 Devices
- AES-256 Encryption
- No logs (audited)
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is a premium service known for its reliability, speed, and ability to bypass geo-restrictions. It uses TrustedServer technology that runs entirely in RAM.
Pros
- Good speeds with Lightway protocol
- Servers in 105 countries for global access
- Strong privacy with RAM-only servers
- Easy-to-use apps for all devices
- 24/7 live chat support
Cons
- More expensive than many competitors
- Limited to 8 simultaneous connections
Key Features
- 3,000+ Servers
- 105 Countries
- 8 Devices
- AES-256 Encryption
- No logs (audited)
Surfshark
Surfshark offers excellent value with unlimited device connections and a comprehensive suite of privacy features including CleanWeb ad blocking and MultiHop servers.
Pros
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Very affordable long-term plans
- Built-in ad and malware blocking
- MultiHop (Double VPN) feature
- 24/7 live chat support
Cons
- Occasional slower speeds on distant servers
- Based in the Netherlands (EU jurisdiction)
Key Features
- 3,200+ Servers
- 100 Countries
- Unlimited Devices
- AES-256 Encryption
- No logs (audited)
CyberGhost
CyberGhost offers user-friendly apps with specialized servers for streaming, gaming, and torrenting. Their extended 45-day money-back guarantee gives plenty of time to test.
Pros
- User-friendly interface ideal for beginners
- Specialized servers for streaming platforms
- Large server network in many countries
- 45-day money-back guarantee
- 7 simultaneous connections
Cons
- Doesn't work well in restrictive countries
- Can be slower than top competitors
Key Features
- 9,500+ Servers
- 91 Countries
- 7 Devices
- AES-256 Encryption
- No logs (not audited)
Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access (PIA) offers extensive customization options and has proven its no-logs policy in court. With a huge server network, it's perfect for tech-savvy users.
Pros
- Massive server network
- Highly customizable settings
- Open-source applications
- Court-proven no-logs policy
- Good for torrenting with port forwarding
Cons
- Based in the US (5 Eyes jurisdiction)
- Interface might be complex for beginners
Key Features
- 35,000+ Servers
- 84 Countries
- 10 Devices
- AES-256 Encryption
- No logs (court-proven)
VPN Buying Guide
What to Look for in a VPN
When choosing a VPN, consider your specific needs. For privacy, look for strong no-logs policies and security features. For streaming, ensure the VPN can reliably unblock content. For travel, check server locations and mobile app quality.
Are Free VPNs Worth It?
Free VPNs often come with significant limitations like data caps, fewer server options, and slower speeds. More concerning, many free VPNs collect and sell user data or serve ads, undermining the privacy benefits. We generally recommend paid VPNs for serious privacy protection.
VPN vs Proxy: What's the Difference?
Proxies simply route traffic through an intermediary server but often don't encrypt data. VPNs provide full encryption of all internet traffic, offering better privacy and security. Proxies may be faster for simple tasks but don't offer comprehensive protection.