In today’s digital age, using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) has become crucial for ensuring online privacy and security. Whether you’re browsing the web, streaming content, or protecting your personal data on public Wi-Fi networks, a reliable VPN can provide peace of mind. But with so many options on the market, which VPN should you choose?
Here are some of the best VPNs to use in 2025, based on their performance, security features, and ease of use.
1. ExpressVPN: Fast, Secure, and Reliable
Best for: Speed, privacy, and global server access.
Key Features:
- Server Locations: 94 countries, with over 3,000 servers.
- Speed: Excellent for streaming and high-speed activities.
- Security: AES-256 encryption, TrustedServer technology (no data is ever written to a hard drive).
- Privacy: No-logs policy; based in the British Virgin Islands (a privacy-friendly jurisdiction).
- Device Compatibility: Supports Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, routers, and more.
Why choose ExpressVPN? ExpressVPN consistently ranks as one of the best VPNs due to its high-speed servers and a strong focus on privacy. It’s ideal for users looking for fast, uninterrupted streaming on platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+. ExpressVPN also supports split tunneling, which allows you to route some of your traffic through the VPN while other apps use your regular internet connection. It’s a great option for both beginners and advanced users.
2. NordVPN: Ultimate Security and Flexibility
Best for: Security, multi-device use, and geo-restricted content.
Key Features:
- Server Locations: 60 countries, with 5,400+ servers.
- Speed: Fast enough for HD streaming and torrenting.
- Security: Double VPN, Onion over VPN, AES-256 encryption, and CyberSec (malware and ad blocker).
- Privacy: Strict no-logs policy; based in Panama.
- Device Compatibility: Supports Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and routers.
Why choose NordVPN? NordVPN is a top contender for security-conscious users. It offers an array of advanced security features like Double VPN (which routes traffic through two servers for added protection), Onion over VPN (for extra anonymity), and an automatic kill switch. Additionally, NordVPN’s vast server network and its excellent ability to unblock popular streaming sites make it a versatile option for users across the globe.
3. CyberGhost: Easy-to-Use and Great for Streaming
Best for: Beginners and streaming.
Key Features:
- Server Locations: 91 countries, with over 7,000 servers.
- Speed: Great for streaming and online gaming.
- Security: AES-256 encryption, ad-blocking, and DNS and IP leak protection.
- Privacy: No-logs policy; based in Romania.
- Device Compatibility: Supports Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and routers.
Why choose CyberGhost? CyberGhost is one of the most user-friendly VPNs available. Its intuitive interface is perfect for beginners, and it provides optimized servers for streaming platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and more. The VPN has a robust no-logs policy and provides excellent privacy and security features, including DNS leak protection and automatic kill switch.
4. Surfshark: Affordable and Feature-Packed
Best for: Budget-conscious users and unlimited device connections.
Key Features:
- Server Locations: 100+ countries, with 3,200+ servers.
- Speed: Excellent for streaming and everyday browsing.
- Security: AES-256 encryption, CleanWeb (blocks ads and malware), and MultiHop (double VPN).
- Privacy: No-logs policy; based in the British Virgin Islands.
- Device Compatibility: Supports Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and more.
Why choose Surfshark? Surfshark is an excellent option for users on a budget. It’s one of the most affordable VPNs, and it allows unlimited device connections, meaning you can protect all your devices with just one account. Its security features are top-notch, including a multi-hop feature that adds an extra layer of encryption, and CleanWeb, which blocks ads and malware.
5. Proton VPN: Best for Privacy and Transparency
Best for: Privacy-focused users and those who want transparency.
Key Features:
- Server Locations: 60 countries, with 1,500+ servers.
- Speed: Good, though not as fast as other top competitors.
- Security: AES-256 encryption, Secure Core (routes traffic through privacy-friendly countries), and Tor over VPN.
- Privacy: Strong no-logs policy; based in Switzerland (excellent privacy laws).
- Device Compatibility: Supports Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and routers.
Why choose Proton VPN? Proton VPN is ideal for privacy enthusiasts. Based in Switzerland, Proton VPN benefits from some of the world’s strongest privacy protections. It features Secure Core, which routes your traffic through privacy-friendly countries like Iceland or Switzerland, and also supports Tor over VPN for complete anonymity. Proton VPN is a great choice for users who prioritize privacy above all else.
6. Private Internet Access (PIA): Solid Performance and Customization
Best for: Customizability and long-term users.
Key Features:
- Server Locations: 80+ countries, with over 35,000 servers.
- Speed: Reliable for streaming and browsing.
- Security: AES-256 encryption, customizable encryption settings, and ad-blocking.
- Privacy: No-logs policy; based in the United States.
- Device Compatibility: Supports Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and more.
Why choose PIA? Private Internet Access offers an extensive server network and provides a high degree of customization, allowing advanced users to tweak encryption settings and other preferences. Its no-logs policy has been proven in court, and it provides strong security features. While its speed might not be the fastest on the market, it is reliable enough for most everyday use, including streaming.
7. IPVanish: Great for Torrenting and Streaming
Best for: Torrenting and P2P file sharing.
Key Features:
- Server Locations: 50+ countries, with 2,000+ servers.
- Speed: Good for streaming and torrenting.
- Security: AES-256 encryption, SOCKS5 proxy, and kill switch.
- Privacy: No-logs policy; based in the United States.
- Device Compatibility: Supports Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and routers.
Why choose IPVanish? IPVanish is a solid choice for users who are particularly interested in torrenting. With fast speeds and strong security, it’s ideal for downloading files safely and securely. It also offers unlimited bandwidth and has a no-logs policy, ensuring that your online activities are kept private. While it’s based in the U.S., its strict no-logs policy provides reassurance.
Conclusion: Which VPN is Best for You?
The best VPN depends on your specific needs:
- For the fastest speeds and the best overall performance, go with ExpressVPN.
- For advanced security features and customization, NordVPN and Proton VPN are solid choices.
- For streaming and ease of use, CyberGhost and Surfshark are highly recommended.
- For privacy and transparency, Proton VPN and ExpressVPN stand out.
When choosing a VPN, always consider factors like speed, server locations, security features, privacy policies, and device compatibility. Most VPN services offer money-back guarantees, so you can test them out risk-free before committing long-term.
Stay safe online and enjoy the freedom to browse without worrying about your privacy!
