Article
Top 10 Best VPN Services for Privacy & Streaming in 2025
Secure your connection and access content from anywhere. Our experts tested speed, security, and streaming capabilities to find the best VPN providers.
Whether you want to protect your privacy on public WiFi, access geo-restricted streaming content, or secure your browsing from prying eyes, a VPN is an essential tool for online security in 2025.
Our team tested over 50 VPN services, measuring real-world speeds, streaming compatibility, security features, and privacy practices. Here are the best VPNs for every need and budget.
Quick Comparison
| VPN | Best For | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. NordVPN | Best Overall | $3.39/month | ★4.9/5 |
| 2. Surfshark | Best Value | $2.19/month | ★4.8/5 |
| 3. ExpressVPN | Best for Speed | $6.67/month | ★4.8/5 |
| 4. CyberGhost | Best for Beginners | $2.19/month | ★4.6/5 |
| 5. Private Internet Access | Best for Power Users | $2.03/month | ★4.6/5 |
| 6. ProtonVPN | Best for Privacy | $4.49/month | ★4.7/5 |
| 7. Mullvad VPN | Best Anonymous VPN | $5.50/month | ★4.5/5 |
| 8. IPVanish | Best for Kodi & Firestick | $2.99/month | ★4.4/5 |
| 9. Windscribe | Best Free Option | $5.75/month | ★4.4/5 |
| 10. Atlas VPN | Best Budget VPN | $1.70/month | ★4.3/5 |
Our Top Picks in Detail
NordVPN
NordVPN consistently tops our tests with its combination of speed, security, and streaming capability. Their Threat Protection feature and specialized servers for different use cases make it the most versatile VPN available.
Pros
- ✓Excellent speeds for streaming and gaming
- ✓Double VPN and Onion over VPN
- ✓Threat Protection blocks ads and malware
- ✓Independently audited no-logs policy
- ✓Works reliably with major streaming services
Cons
- ✗Premium pricing
- ✗Occasional server connection issues
- ✗No free tier available
Surfshark
Surfshark delivers premium features at budget prices, and their unlimited device policy means one subscription covers your entire household. CleanWeb ad-blocking and MultiHop add extra value to an already compelling package.
Pros
- ✓Unlimited simultaneous connections
- ✓Very affordable long-term plans
- ✓CleanWeb blocks ads and trackers
- ✓MultiHop (double VPN) included
- ✓Strong streaming unblocking
Cons
- ✗Smaller server network
- ✗Speeds vary by server
- ✗Based in Netherlands (14 Eyes)
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN justifies its premium price with blazing-fast speeds and rock-solid reliability. Their proprietary Lightway protocol and TrustedServer technology set the standard for VPN performance and security.
Pros
- ✓Consistently fastest speeds
- ✓Lightway protocol is excellent
- ✓Works in China and restricted regions
- ✓TrustedServer RAM-only infrastructure
- ✓24/7 live chat support
Cons
- ✗Most expensive option
- ✗Only 8 simultaneous connections
- ✗No specialized servers
CyberGhost
CyberGhost makes VPN simple with pre-configured profiles for streaming, torrenting, and privacy. Their massive server network and labeled streaming servers take the guesswork out of finding working connections.
Pros
- ✓Largest server network
- ✓Dedicated streaming servers
- ✓Very user-friendly apps
- ✓45-day money-back guarantee
- ✓Dedicated IP option available
Cons
- ✗Slower speeds on distant servers
- ✗Doesn't work in China
- ✗Owned by Kape Technologies
Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access (PIA) offers unmatched customization and the largest server network in the industry. Their open-source commitment and court-proven no-logs policy appeal to privacy purists.
Pros
- ✓Massive server network
- ✓Unlimited connections
- ✓Highly configurable settings
- ✓Open-source apps
- ✓Proven no-logs policy in court
Cons
- ✗Based in USA (5 Eyes)
- ✗Streaming can be inconsistent
- ✗Interface less polished
ProtonVPN
ProtonVPN comes from the makers of ProtonMail and inherits their privacy-first philosophy. Swiss jurisdiction, open-source code, and Secure Core routing make it the top choice for privacy-conscious users.
Pros
- ✓Swiss privacy jurisdiction
- ✓Free tier available (limited)
- ✓Secure Core servers
- ✓Open-source and audited
- ✓No-logs policy verified
Cons
- ✗Slower than top competitors
- ✗Free tier very limited
- ✗Higher price for full features
Mullvad VPN
Mullvad takes anonymity seriously—you sign up with just a generated account number, no email needed. Their simple pricing and refusal to collect user data make them a favorite among privacy advocates.
Pros
- ✓No email or personal info required
- ✓Pay with cash or crypto
- ✓Simple flat-rate pricing
- ✓Excellent WireGuard implementation
- ✓Strong privacy track record
Cons
- ✗Limited streaming support
- ✗Smaller server network
- ✗No mobile-optimized features
IPVanish
IPVanish stands out by owning and operating their entire server infrastructure. Their excellent Fire TV app and Kodi compatibility make them the go-to choice for streaming device users.
Pros
- ✓Owns entire server network
- ✓Unlimited connections
- ✓Great Firestick app
- ✓SOCKS5 proxy included
- ✓Good for Kodi users
Cons
- ✗Past logging controversy
- ✗Streaming support inconsistent
- ✗Based in USA
Windscribe
Windscribe offers the most generous free VPN tier with 10GB monthly data and access to 10 countries. Their build-a-plan option lets you pay only for the locations you need, providing excellent flexibility.
Pros
- ✓Generous free tier (10GB/month)
- ✓Build-a-plan pricing option
- ✓R.O.B.E.R.T. ad/malware blocker
- ✓Unlimited connections
- ✓Browser extensions included
Cons
- ✗Smaller premium network
- ✗Speeds can be inconsistent
- ✗Support limited to email
Atlas VPN
Atlas VPN proves you don't need to spend much for solid VPN protection. Features like SafeSwap (rotating IPs) and data breach monitoring add value beyond basic VPN functionality at rock-bottom prices.
Pros
- ✓Extremely affordable
- ✓Unlimited devices
- ✓SafeSwap rotating IPs
- ✓Data breach monitoring
- ✓Free version available
Cons
- ✗Smaller server network
- ✗Newer company (less track record)
- ✗Owned by Nord Security
How We Test VPN Services
Our VPN testing methodology is comprehensive and unbiased:
Speed Testing
We measure real-world performance across multiple scenarios:
- Download speeds: Testing from multiple global locations
- Upload speeds: Important for video calls and file sharing
- Latency: Ping times for gaming and real-time applications
- Speed consistency: Performance over extended periods
Security Analysis
We examine the technical foundations:
- Encryption protocols: AES-256, WireGuard, OpenVPN support
- Kill switch: Effectiveness at preventing IP leaks
- DNS leak protection: Ensuring all traffic stays encrypted
- Independent audits: Third-party security verification
Streaming Tests
We test against major platforms:
- Netflix (US, UK, and other regions)
- Disney+, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video
- BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and regional services
- Consistency of access over time
Privacy Evaluation
We investigate company practices:
- Logging policies and privacy claims
- Jurisdiction and legal implications
- Past incidents and company responses
- Payment options for anonymity
VPN Security Features Explained
Encryption Protocols
- WireGuard: Modern, fast, and secure—now the industry standard
- OpenVPN: Battle-tested and highly configurable
- IKEv2: Great for mobile devices with frequent network changes
Advanced Features
- Kill Switch: Blocks internet if VPN disconnects
- Split Tunneling: Choose which apps use the VPN
- Multi-Hop: Route traffic through multiple servers
- Obfuscation: Disguise VPN traffic as regular browsing
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a VPN and how does it work?
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) encrypts your internet connection and routes it through a server in another location. This hides your IP address, protects your data from hackers, and can make it appear you’re browsing from a different country.
Are VPNs legal?
VPNs are legal in most countries, including the US, UK, Canada, and Australia. However, some countries like China, Russia, and the UAE restrict or ban VPN use. Always check local laws before using a VPN abroad.
Will a VPN slow down my internet?
All VPNs add some overhead due to encryption, but top providers like NordVPN and ExpressVPN typically reduce speeds by only 10-20%. Connecting to nearby servers minimizes speed loss.
Can I use a VPN to watch Netflix from other countries?
Yes, many VPNs can unblock Netflix libraries from different regions. However, Netflix actively blocks VPN servers, so you need a provider that consistently works—NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark are the most reliable options.
What’s the difference between free and paid VPNs?
Free VPNs typically have data caps, fewer servers, slower speeds, and may log and sell your browsing data. Paid VPNs offer unlimited data, better speeds, more server options, and stronger privacy guarantees.
Do I need a VPN on my phone?
Yes, especially when using public WiFi. Mobile VPN apps protect your data at coffee shops, airports, and hotels where networks are often unsecured and vulnerable to attacks.
What is a no-logs policy?
A no-logs policy means the VPN provider doesn’t record your browsing activity, connection times, or IP addresses. Look for providers that have had their no-logs claims independently audited.
How many devices can I protect with one VPN subscription?
This varies by provider—from 5 devices (Mullvad) to unlimited (Surfshark, PIA, IPVanish). Most services allow 5-10 simultaneous connections, which is enough for most households.
Last updated: December 2025. Prices shown are for annual or multi-year plans. Monthly pricing is typically higher. Features and streaming compatibility may change as providers update their services.