Best VPN Service for 2025: Our Top Pick in a Tight Race

Editors' note, May 19, 2025: After retesting all of our previous top picks for speeds, leaks, usability and more, we have a few updates to this page. Express remains our choice for best overall VPN by a razor-thin margin over NordVPN, on the back of excellent privacy, transparency and usability. But NordVPN once again emerged as the fastest VPN, posting a virtually unnoticeable 3% speed loss in our testing. Surfshark offers similar features and functionality to ExpressVPN and NordVPN at a substantially lower cost, especially when it comes to renewal prices. Mullvad and Proton are still worthy privacy-focused competitors around Surfshark's price. PIA's high speed loss and constant CAPTCHAs led us to pull it from our top recommendations and instead list it as another one to consider. In May 2025, NordVPN debuted its first-ever Linux GUI app, so all of our top-rated VPNs now offer user-friendly Linux graphical user interface apps.

ExpressVPN came out on top as the best VPN overall after several months of testing, which involved more than 1,000 speed tests along with testing for leaks and streaming capabilities while poring through privacy policies. ExpressVPN gained an edge over worthy rivals Surfshark and NordVPN thanks to its privacy and usability, making it the best with a 9/10 rating. Privacy is one of the main reasons people turn to VPN services, and ExpressVPN meets that requirement with unmatched transparency, including its privacy policy and TrustedServer technology. TrustedServer technology goes a step beyond traditional RAM-only server infrastructure, resulting in maximum peace of mind when it comes to your browsing data.

ExpressVPN is also consistently fast, with speeds boosted by its Lightway protocol, which delivers future-proof postquantum protection, cleanly blending performance and security. Lightway recently got an upgrade, which may beef up its speed and security. Using ExpressVPN's service is a breeze, reliably unblocking streaming content and offering useful security features with its Advanced Protection suite. ExpressVPN even supports Microsoft Copilot Plus PCs and launched a user-friendly Linux GUI app, meaning it has streamlined apps for nearly every platform. Whether you're a seasoned VPN aficionado or have never used a virtual private network app before, ExpressVPN is intuitive and accessible -- just be prepared to pay a premium for it.

NordVPN (8.8/10) is an excellent privacy feature-packed VPN. Its connection speeds were the fastest we tested, with CNET Labs clocking a best-in-class 3% average internet download speed loss. It offers a slew of advanced privacy benefits, including a double VPN as well as Onion Over VPN for extra encryption and Meshnet for secure file sharing, alongside more standard features like split tunneling to let you decide which online activities need VPN protection. Most people won't need all those options, but they're nice inclusions for power users. Nord has even begun rolling out post-quantum protection for its apps for beefed-up security against threats from quantum computing, like breaking encryption. Nord supports nearly any platform, including niche devices like the Apple TV and ARM-based Windows PCs -- in May 2025, the company even rolled out a Linux GUI app, making it easier to use on Linux for beginners. Overall, NordVPN offers a high-performing service with excellent features for people who want advanced privacy features and superb streaming capabilities. But like ExpressVPN, Nord is pricier than most other VPNs, especially when it comes to renewal prices.

Surfshark (8.4/10) is a great choice for folks seeking privacy features on a budget. It offers connection speeds and features comparable to ExpressVPN and NordVPN but at an annual rate that's considerably cheaper ($48 for the first year or $54 total for the first two years, then $79 a year after the promotional period for both the one- and two-year plans, which is still cheaper than the discounted price of many other VPNs, like ExpressVPN). Surfshark also offers support for unlimited simultaneous devices, which makes it a great option for people with large families or just a lot of connected devices. There's even an Apple TV app for easy streaming in the living room and a Linux GUI app for simplicity on Linux. Despite its relative affordability in comparison with VPN rivals, Surfshark packs a privacy punch, offering unique features like split tunneling on MacOS and Dynamic MultiHop. Still, Surfshark doesn't quite match ExpressVPN's commitment to privacy, which makes it less suited for people with critical privacy needs.

Mullvad VPN (8.4/10) is the most private VPN. While you'll find the privacy basics, Mullvad goes above and beyond what most VPNs provide. Its unique privacy approach means you don't need to give the company any personal information if you don't want to, not even an email address, and you can pay with cash. All of its apps are open-source, meaning anyone can inspect their source code for bugs or vulnerabilities. What's more, Mullvad's transparency extends to its pricing -- you'll pay 5 euros per month (about $6) whether you sign up for one month, one year, or more with no price hikes at all. If you're seriously concerned about privacy, Mullvad is the VPN for you.

Proton VPN (8.4/10) is the most versatile VPN on the market. It's privacy-forward, with neat features like discreet app icons on Android to disguise your VPN app as a notes, weather or calculator app. An obfuscation-focused VPN protocol focuses on masking your VPN connection as standard web traffic to slip through firewalls. But Proton VPN works equally well for casual customers seeking an excellent VPN for streaming -- it even unblocked tough-to-access regional content like Netflix Egypt. At $10 per month, $60 for the first year or $108 total for the first two years (the one- and two-year plans renew at $80 annually), Proton is a great value.

Each VPN service we recommend has excellent value for a specific use case, and we point out the ideal user for each one. The array of options available means there's a VPN service suited to your needs, whether your privacy needs are casual or critical. Also, consider jumping on one of the best VPN deals currently available, which many of our top picks are offering.

When shopping for a virtual private network, you'll need to figure out the best VPN for your needs and budget. Here's what to look for.

Internet speed loss

VPNs somewhat lower your internet speed because you're routing your traffic through an encrypted server before communicating with apps, websites and other internet services rather than a direct connection. The fastest VPNs feature an average download speed loss of 25% or less. Generally, even folks with slower connections -- like satellite internet -- won't notice a marginal 25% or under dip. For bandwidth-intensive applications like gaming, 4K video streaming or uploading large files, you'll want a VPN with minimal speed loss. Casual users with faster internet speeds should be fine with more than 25% speed loss, but we look for VPNs that keep speed loss below 50%.

In our 2025 testing, NordVPN came out on top with an impressively low 3% average internet speed loss. Mullvad, Surfshark, Proton VPN and ExpressVPN all clocked an average internet download speed loss of 25% or less.

Privacy

VPNs bolster your privacy by masking your public IP address, which -- like your physical address -- contains identifying information about your geographical location. So when you connect to the internet while having a VPN enabled, your public IP address is hidden from your ISP, as well as apps you use and websites you visit. But the best VPNs provide robust privacy protections. At a minimum, we recommend a VPN with 256-bit encryption (for OpenVPN and IKEv2 VPN protocols) or ChaCha20 (with WireGuard), a strict no-logging policy and DNS leak protection. Because logging is tough to verify, look for regular third-party audits. You can and should be skeptical of your VPN provider's zero-log claims. Still, VPN audits are important even if they don't provide the full privacy picture.

Additionally, transparency reports offer peace of mind. We also suggest sticking with a VPN that includes a kill switch, which shuts your internet off in case your VPN unexpectedly disconnects. For granular control over your VPN connection, you may want split tunneling, which lets you use a VPN for some apps and websites but not others. For instance, you can use split tunneling to route your Netflix app through a VPN to unblock foreign content libraries while excluding your Google Chrome browser to avoid CAPTCHAs when logging into your email.

More privacy-concerned folks like investigative journalists or political activists will appreciate advanced features such as obfuscation (which makes it harder for ISPs to determine that you're using a VPN), Tor over VPN (for additional encryption using the Tor network) and a double VPN (which relies on a second VPN server connection to enhance encryption). Folks with critical privacy needs should consider a VPN provider with jurisdiction outside of the Five, Nine or Fourteen Eyes intelligence-sharing communities for even stronger peace of mind. Whether you're just curious or you suspect your VPN isn't working, you may want to perform a VPN test.

Server network

When considering VPN server networks, look at the overall number of servers, as well as the individual country locations. For instance, one virtual private network company may have twice the total number of servers as a competitor but half the different country locations, meaning you've got fewer international choices. At the high end, the best VPNs for travel offer 90-plus individual countries, but anywhere over 60 countries will work for many folks.

Outside of country locations, some VPNs allow file sharing across all servers, whereas others feature dedicated P2P (peer-to-peer) options. For purposes like torrenting, check whether your desired provider permits file sharing on all servers or select ones.

Additionally, you'll sometimes find specialty servers, like Tor (The Onion Router) over VPN, Double VPN or obfuscated servers. Onion over VPN and Double VPN servers provide extra privacy by bolstering your encryption even further when compared with a standard VPN connection, with Tor using the Onion network while a double VPN relies on a second VPN tunnel. On the other hand, obfuscated servers make it more difficult for apps, websites or internet service providers to determine that you're using a VPN.

Device support

Think about your devices and what you'd like to run a VPN on so that you can check for an available virtual private network app. Most virtual private network services offer apps for Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android/Android TV, iOS/iPadOS and web browsers. Apple TV apps are increasingly common, with ExpressVPN, Surfshark, Proton VPN, PIA, NordVPN, PrivadoVPN and IPVanish featuring TVOS applications. A graphical user interface application may be easier for Linux users than a command line interface option. ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, Proton and PIA boast Linux GUI apps, making them compelling choices for Linux VPNs. Windows for ARM support is available with some VPNs, including NordVPN, Surfshark, Proton VPN, ExpressVPN and PIA. You can typically install a VPN on your router for whole-home coverage and use it on devices that don't support native VPN apps, like Xbox consoles, although this will typically void the warranty on the router.

Most VPN companies let you install an app on as many gadgets as you wish, but you're sometimes limited to simultaneous devices. ExpressVPN allows eight, while NordVPN and Proton give you 10. Surfshark, PIA and IPVanish are unlimited. Even with a provider like Express, Proton or Nord, you can still install a VPN on as many devices as you wish, but you'll be able to have only a handful of active sessions at once. Most folks should be fine even with eight to 10 simultaneous connections, but families or hardcore power users may feel constrained. If you've got a lot of gadgets you want to install a VPN on, you may want to consider one of the best VPNs for multiple devices, including Surfshark, NordVPN, PIA and ExpressVPN.

Streaming capabilities

VPNs can be great for privacy. They're also helpful for unblocking region-restricted entertainment content. A VPN lets you stream services like Peacock (for NFL games), Max or Hulu from your home country while traveling abroad. Conversely, VPNs also unlock access to foreign libraries on platforms like Netflix (to watch Squid Game), Disney Plus (for Marvel's What If viewings) and Amazon Prime Video (currently featuring Cross). You may even be able to save money by using a VPN for streaming. For more info, check out the best VPNs for Amazon Prime Video and the best VPNs for streaming.

Cost

With most VPNs, you can buy virtual private network service on a monthly, bi-annual, annual or multi-year plan. Although multi-year deals typically net you the most savings, we usually recommend sticking with an annual plan for the best savings with the lowest risk. The virtual private network you sign up for may initially be fast, private and great for geo-unblocking, but may become slower, suffer a data breach or stop allowing access to foreign Netflix libraries over a year.

On the high end, VPNs such as Express cost around $100 per year, with value-packed providers like Surfshark and PIA offering introductory year-long prices from $40 to $48. Some companies include price hikes: NordVPN normally charges $60 annually for your first year, then your plan renews at $140 per 12 months. Similarly, Surfshark goes for $48 a year upfront, then renews at $79 annually. Make a budget, then find a VPN provider that fits the bill while being mindful of price hikes. Notably, you can renew while avoiding raised renewal rates by taking advantage of seasonal discounts like Black Friday/Cyber Monday deals. If you're on a budget, you may want to consider one of the best cheap VPNs, like Surfshark, PIA or Mullvad.

Additional VPN factors to consider when selecting the best VPN for your needs and budget

Don't use free VPN providers: Except for Proton -- the best free VPN on the market -- you'll find only paid VPN options on this list because they're the only ones we recommend.

Look for a no-logs VPN but understand the caveats: The best VPNs keep as few logs as possible and make them as anonymous as possible, so there's little data to provide should authorities come knocking. Even "no-logs" VPNs aren't 100% anonymous.

There are limits to the privacy VPNs currently provide to iOS users: Recent independent research has surfaced suggesting iPhones and iPads running iOS 14 or later may be vulnerable to device-only VPN leaks, regardless of which VPN is used. Apple users concerned with potential leaks can take extra precautions by installing their VPN on a home router to ensure their entire Wi-Fi network is encrypted. Some iOS users may potentially reduce the likelihood of leaks while outside of a home network by enabling their VPN's kill switch and selecting OpenVPN protocols. You can also try closing all apps, activating your VPN and then enabling and disabling Airplane Mode before using your device normally. Apple advises users to activate their device's Always On VPN profile for additional protection.

VPN transparency is important, but warrant canaries are only the beginning: Many services use "warrant canaries" to passively note to the public whether or not they've been subpoenaed by a government entity. This is because many investigations from national security agencies can't be actively disclosed by law. Like the no-logging issue, warrant canaries aren't always as straightforward as they seem. You should spend more time investigating whether your prospective VPN has cooperated with authorities in the past, and how and when it's disclosed that fact.

Think twice about using a US-based VPN: The Patriot Act is still the law of the land in the US, and that means US-based VPNs have little recourse if and when the feds show up with subpoenas or national security letters in hand demanding access to servers, VPN user accounts or other data. Yes, they may have little data to access if the service has a strong no-logs policy, but why not just choose a service that's based outside Uncle Sam's jurisdiction? (If this is a concern for you, you'll also want to avoid countries with which the US has intelligence-sharing agreements.)

Our hands-on testing and review process is designed to cut through the hype and determine the best VPNs of the bunch. When we look at each VPN service, we're not just examining them for their technical weaknesses, but we're also scrutinizing their individual performance strengths in various areas, like privacy, streaming or value for the money. We want to know what each service does best. We test each VPN across over 20 factors, and we continually improve our methodology as we learn more. Our rigorous testing process involves running over 250 internet speed tests across multiple worldwide servers to determine accurate internet speed loss averages.

We test VPNs for browsing and streaming speed in multiple countries, as well as their connection stability and even the smallest potential privacy leaks. By testing across multiple devices and platforms, we're able to assess which VPNs are best for gaming versus those best for streaming, torrenting or sharing sensitive information. Most importantly, we focus on doing the deep-dive research necessary to vet each VPN's historical credibility and its ownership in a notoriously murky market.

The VPNs on this list earn our recommendation for more than just boosting their digital privacy strengths -- they enable easy streaming to overcome geo-blocked media, have torrenting-friendly servers and are fast enough to support gaming globally. Based on those continued evaluations, you'll see a few bullet points on each entry in our list, highlighting each VPN's strengths and the uses we recommend it for most. Because we strive to keep on top of a fast-changing market, you'll notice that the rank of each VPN service changes as we learn more and retest.

Picking the best VPN requires knowing two basic things to start with: What you want to use it for, and what you're willing to pay. The range of VPN offerings is vast, but those two things will help you find a VPN that has the right blend of speed, security and cost.

Below, you'll find specific FAQ sections on picking a VPN based on the most common needs: gaming, streaming media, working from home and privacy-critical professions. In general, you'll want a VPN that provides sufficient encryption, doesn't log your activity, offers essential security features like DNS leak protection and a kill switch, has server locations where you need them and can give you fast connection speeds. Our top five VPNs have all these features, although connection speeds will vary based on your internet provider and the server you connect to.

For a deeper dive, check our detailed walk-through of how we evaluate and review VPNs. If you're looking for some quick pointers, here are universally applicable advice guides for beginners:

• VPN Red Flags to Watch Out For
• How to Identify a Good VPN