Best VPN services of 2026

Based on our tests, NordVPN stood out as the best VPN overall thanks to its top-tier speeds, reliable geo-block bypassing, polished apps, and strong privacy protections.

The best VPNs protect your online privacy without sacrificing performance, offering fast speeds, reliable security, and access to geo-restricted content worldwide. At VPNpro, we rigorously test VPN services to find the ones that truly excel in privacy, performance, reliability, streaming access, and value. We’ve been testing and reviewing VPNs hands-on since 2018, using real-world scenarios and repeated performance checks to separate marketing claims from reality.

Based on our latest tests, NordVPN continues to rank as the best overall VPN in 2026, followed closely by Surfshark and Proton VPN. Continue reading to find our updated rankings, detailed test results, and clear guidance to help you choose the best VPN for your needs.

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Our recommended VPN services

1. NordVPN

   Best VPN overall
   9.8
2. Surfshark VPN

   Best value VPN without a device limit
   9.5
3. TotalVPN

   Easy to use VPN app
   8.2
4. Proton VPN

   Privacy-focused VPN service
   8.6
5. Norton VPN

   Reliable VPN for beginners
   7.3

Best VPN services comparison 2026

Remember that speeds may vary depending on your internet bandwidth, geographical location, platform, and other aspects.

Best VPN providers in May 2026

After testing over 30 VPN providers on the market, I gathered the top 10 that consistently deliver secure browsing, solid privacy, dependable performance, and access to geo-restricted content. As of May 2026, our top five best VPN services are NordVPN, Surfshark, TotalVPN, Proton VPN, and IPVanish. Five additional VPNs also made the list, offering good value, solid security features and tool kits, or niche strengths that may suit specific user needs.

Top 1. NordVPN – best overall VPN in 2026

After extensive testing, NordVPN stood out as the best VPN service in 2025. It combines high speeds, market-leading security features, easy-to-use apps, and a large server network consisting of 9,300+ servers across 137+ countries. NordVPN is also one of the global VPN market leaders, alongside Cisco, Palo Alto Networks, and Fortinet, serving millions of users worldwide.

Security and privacy. The renowned security powerhouse sets the standard with the most advanced AES-256 encryption, which kept our traffic fully protected during testing. However, encryption alone is not enough to keep you safe, so NordVPN supplements it with not one but two kill switches and robust leak protection, both of which performed reliably in our tests. When it comes to privacy, NordVPN ticked all the boxes – privacy-friendly location (Panama), frequently audited no-logs policy, and RAM-only infrastructure. So, not only does it not log your data, the provider doesn't store it either. In addition, advanced security features like Threat Protection Pro act as a lightweight antivirus, scanning downloaded files for malware and blocking malicious websites before they can cause harm.

Performance. I can't help but be amazed by NordVPN speeds. In our speed tests, NordVPN retained average speeds of 731Mbps, and it consistently ranked as the fastest provider on the market. There was only a minimal impact on our internet performance, mostly thanks to NordVPN’s proprietary NordLynx protocol, which is based on WireGuard. You can also get dedicated IPs from more than 28 countries to boost performance for specific use cases.

Features. As a VPN expert, I have to praise NordVPN for its specialized hardware, such as obfuscated Double VPN, dedicated IP, and Onion Over VPN servers. There are also more common features, such as Threat Protection, split-tunneling, a SOCKS5 proxy, Invisibility on LAN, and even Dark Web Monitoring. In addition, NordVPN offers Meshnet, which lets you securely connect devices remotely, route traffic through other devices and create private networks without exposing your data online.

Streaming & P2P. Thanks to its SmartPlay feature, NordVPN helps you safely access your home streaming content while you’re abroad. SmartPlay technology is integrated into all NordVPN apps and worked reliably during our tests, letting us unblock geo-restricted content on Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and several other platforms. Similarly, NordVPN works well for file-sharing purposes, and you can download torrents anonymously by using P2P-optimized servers.

Compatibility. You can use NordVPN with all of your devices. It has apps for all major platforms, such as Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. If you prefer to use the VPN directly in your browser, you can use Chrome, Firefox, and Edge browser extensions. The best part is the SmartDNS feature and router support. These let users to set up a VPN on devices that don't offer native VPN apps. Plus, there's 10 simultaneous connections to cover all of your devices with just one account.

Pricing. NordVPN offers excellent value for money, with subscription prices starting at $3.09/month on long-term plans. Besides, you may find even better deals on the NordVPN coupons page. New users can try NordVPN thanks to its 3-day free trial on Android, or benefit from a 30-day money-back guarantee if 3 days are not enough for a risk-free trial period.

For a deeper investigation of NordVPN, read our NordVPN review.

Top 2. Surfshark – budget-friendly VPN with strong privacy features

Surfshark ranks as one of the best VPN services in 2026, thanks to its excellent value, strong security, and unlimited device connections. Based on our testing, Surfshark delivers fast performance suitable for streaming and torrenting, making it a standout choice for users who want a feature-rich VPN at an affordable price.

Security & privacy. I tested Surfshark's security, and it proved reliable throughout our testing. It implements industry-leading VPN protocols and AES-256 encryption, as well as a kill switch that never failed during our tests. Surfshark also offers additional protection tools, including CleanWeb for blocking ads and malware, Camouflage Mode to hide VPN usage, split tunneling, and Surfshark Antivirus for added security. The provider's privacy measures are just as efficient. With an independently audited no-logs policy and RAM-only server infrastructure, Surfshark proves that it doesn’t log or track your online activities.

Performance. Surshark is one of the few VPNs that can compete with NordVPN in the speed category. In our tests, Surfshark delivered fast performance with speeds exceeding 718Mbps, while maintaining stable connections throughout. One of the main reasons for it is its use of the lightweight and secure WireGuard protocol. Plus, to support consistent performance worldwide, Surfshark operates 4,500+ RAM-only servers across 100+ countries. You can also get dedicated IPs from 16 countries to use on services sensitive to IP changes.

Features. Surfshark borders the spectrum of VPN applications with plenty of additional features. You can use Camouflage and NoBorders modes to circumvent censorship. Meanwhile, MultiHop doubles the encryption for extra privacy. If you want to get rid of ads and avoid dangerous websites, you'll benefit from the CleanWeb ad blocker. Another great feature is the IP rotator, which periodically connects you to a different server without dropping the secure connection. On mobile devices, Surfshark also offers a GPS override, allowing you to mask your real location more effectively.

Streaming & P2P. Surfshark is one of the best streaming VPNs we tested, letting us bypass geo-blocks on platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and others. The shows and movies we streamed were in high quality and without any buffering or annoying lag. Surfshark also works across devices that wouldn’t normally support VPN apps, thanks to the Smart DNS feature and vast router support. Torrenting enthusiasts aren't overlooked either – Surfshark VPN is one of the best torrenting VPNs, with all of its servers allowing P2P traffic, and you can even use a SOCKS5 proxy for added anonymity.

Compatibility. With just one account, Surfshark lets you connect an unlimited number of devices to its servers. Surfshark offers user-friendly apps for all major operating systems, as well as platforms like Android TV and Amazon Fire TV Stick. Furthermore, Surfshark supports Chromebooks and has browser add-ons for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.

Pricing. Surfshark stands out as one of the most affordable premium VPN services, with long-term plans starting at $1.99/month. Despite the low price, it still offers a full feature set, including unlimited device connections. If you want to try it first, Surfshark provides a 7-day free trial, while all subscriptions are covered by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

For a deeper investigation of Surfshark VPN, read our Surfshark VPN review.

Top 3. TotalVPN – easy to use and inexpensive VPN

TotalVPN earns a spot on our list of the best VPN services as a beginner-friendly, easy-to-use option that comes bundled with the popular TotalAV antivirus. During our testing, TotalVPN proved straightforward to set up and operate, making it a solid choice for users who want basic VPN protection without dealing with complex settings. And while it doesn’t offer the advanced features of higher-ranked VPNs, its simplicity and all-in-one security bundle make it a practical option for everyday use.

Security & privacy. TotalVPN is a cheap and easy-to-use VPN that focuses on basic protection rather than advanced security features. It uses AES-256 encryption, comes with secure OpenVPN, IKEv2, Hydra, and WireGuard tunneling protocols, and offers solid IP/DNS leak protection. While TotalVPN also includes a kill switch to enhance your data protection, we did miss more advanced features like split tunneling, which naturally limits its appeal for more advanced VPN users. The service also claims a no-logs policy, however, it’s based in the UK, a known Five-Eyes country, and TotalVPN’s privacy practices have not yet been independently audited.

Performance. TotalVPN delivers reliable performance with quite substantial speeds on nearby servers, although connections to distant servers can show more speed loss. While testing, I noticed speed drops of around 35-40% on remote servers, which are within the expected range of the OpenVPN protocol. With thousands of servers across 90+ countries, most in North America and Europe, TotalVPN is more than enough to bypass geo-restrictions and enjoy unrestricted online access.

Streaming & P2P. TotalVPN successfully unblocks major streaming platforms like Netflix and Hulu in Mexico, ensuring stable HD streaming quality. Although it lacks the Smart DNS feature for devices that don’t support VPNs natively, it remains an extra reliable option for streaming on PCs and mobile devices. For P2P file-sharing, TotalVPN supports torrenting in a basic form and allows P2P activities on non-US servers. The downside is that it doesn’t offer specialized torrenting servers, and speeds may be limited when compared to other higher-ranking VPNs.

Compatibility. As a beginner-friendly VPN, TotalVPN is compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS devices. The easy-to-use dedicated apps for each of them pack simple interfaces and essential features with only minuscule differences. Unfortunately, router support guides are currently missing, but Total VPN makes up for it by offering online security, streaming, and bypassing geo-blocks on 8 devices simultaneously.

Pricing. TotalVPN is one of the most budget-friendly VPN options available, with plans starting at $1.59/month when bundled with TotalAV antivirus software. It offers solid value for users looking for basic VPN protection alongside antivirus tools. You can try TotalVPN risk-free using the 7-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

For a deeper investigation of TotalVPN, read our TotalVPN review.

Top 4. Proton VPN – secure VPN with large server network

Proton VPN is a solid VPN for users who prioritize privacy above all else. It focuses heavily on strong security, transparency, and user privacy, while still delivering strong performance and broad compatibility. Proton VPN operates a massive network of 20,075+ servers across 145+ countries and is one of the few premium VPNs to offer an unlimited free plan – something providers like NordVPN and Surfshark do not provide.

Security & privacy. Proton VPN offers some of the strongest privacy protections that we’ve tested. Its apps are open source, which means that the provider guarantees full transparency, and anyone can review the code. Apart from internal audits, the app has passed independent third-party audits with no significant security issues found. Based in Switzerland, it benefits from strict privacy laws and follows a verified no-logs policy, meaning it does not collect, store, or track your online activity. When it comes to the most important secure features, Proton VPN covers all the basics with strong encryption, a reliable kill switch, leak protection, and Secure Core, which routes traffic through multiple servers for added protection.

Performance. Our tests show that Proton VPN is one of the fastest privacy-focused VPNs on the market. During our speed tests, it reached up to 690Mbps, making it a strong option for bandwidth-intensive tasks such as downloading large files or competitive online gaming. This performance is driven by Proton’s use of the WireGuard tunneling protocol as well as VPN Accelerator, which can boost speeds by up to 400%.

Features. With Proton VPN, you also get a solid adblocker that removes ads, trackers, and even malware when you browse the web. Among other notable features is the Stealth protocol, which helps conceal the fact that you're connecting through a VPN. Proton VPN also offers premium features like streaming access, full P2P support, Tor over VPN, port forwarding (Windows only), and split tunneling to let you choose which apps use the VPN. Users also get access to 10Gbps-capable servers for demanding use cases.

Streaming & P2P. Apart from being ultra-secure, Proton VPN is also great for streaming. It reliably unblocks Netflix libraries as well as Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Sky Sports, and others. Proton VPN is also a great option for torrenting, thanks to its fast speeds and P2P-optimized servers, so you get stable and secure file-sharing connections.

Compatibility. You can use Proton VPN on up to 10 devices simultaneously and it offers Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Android TV, and Chromebook apps. What's more, you can manually configure Proton on routers to extend the range of protected devices. The service also offers Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and other Chromium- and Firefox-based browser extensions. We do miss the Smart DNS feature, though.

Pricing. As one of the best VPNs out there, Proton VPN offers flexible pricing options, with paid plans starting at $2.99/month on long-term subscriptions. One of its biggest advantages is the unlimited free plan, which includes access to 10 server locations and unlimited bandwidth, but streaming and P2P aren't available on the free tier. Going premium is risk-free, though, with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

For a deeper investigation of Proton VPN, read our Proton VPN review.

Top 5. Norton VPN – best VPN for security and privacy

Norton VPN is an easy-to-use VPN built around strong security and privacy protections. During our testing, it delivered reliable performance and passed all IP, DNS, and WebRTC leak tests without issues, which makes it a solid choice for users who want straightforward VPN protection without a complex setup. Norton VPN focuses on essential security features and privacy safeguards, which makes it especially suitable for beginners and everyday use.

Security & privacy. Norton VPN is based in the United States, a member of the Five-Eyes alliance. However, it proves its dedication to privacy by having a no-logs policy, so none of your browsing history, DNS queries, or real IP addresses are logged. Norton VPN also includes essential security features like military-grade encryption, DNS leak protection, a kill switch, and Compromised Network Detection, which alerts you when connecting to potentially unsafe networks.

Performance. Norton VPN owns a sizable fleet of 2,000+ servers in 65+ countries. When it comes to speed, Norton VPN retained around 72% of our original internet speed, reaching speeds of up to 677Mbps. Connection remained stable and fast, thanks to its OpenVPN and WireGuard protocol choices.

Features. Norton VPN offers split tunneling to route the VPN connection through select apps only. It also includes Double VPN, which routes your traffic through two servers for added privacy. There’s also the IP Rotation feature, which regularly changes your IP address to reduce tracking. For added security, you get additional features like VPN obfuscation, DDoS protection, Wi-Fi security, and an integrated ad and tracker blocker. Also, a password manager is included with all Norton VPN plans.

Streaming & P2P. I managed to unblock Netflix US and the notoriously stringent Japanese library on the first try, but Norton VPN failed to unblock German and French libraries. On the other hand, it works great with other platforms, such as BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video, to name a few. Regarding torrenting, Norton VPN allows P2P traffic only in supported regions where torrenting is legal, and it does not include built-in torrenting features.

Compatibility. Norton VPN supports the most popular platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, making it easy to protect your everyday devices. However, it doesn’t support router setups or advanced configurations like DD-WRT or Linux platforms. Each account gets 10 simultaneous connections, which should be enough even for your extended family.

Pricing. Norton VPN offers competitive pricing, with plans starting at $3.33/month on long-term subscriptions. You can try the service risk-free with its 30-day free trial, and if you decide to subscribe, you’ll be covered by the 60-day money-back guarantee policy.

For a deeper investigation of Norton VPN, read our Norton VPN review.

Top 6. Bitdefender VPN – best mid-class VPN for daily use

Bitdefender VPN proved to be one of the best VPNs we tested, thanks to its strong security foundation, solid performance, and seamless integration with Bitdefender’s security ecosystem. Even though this VPN is made by a well-known antivirus company, Bitdefender VPN is a competent contender with a lot to offer. It’s packed with industry-standard security features, reliable speeds, and a simple user experience that works well for everyday browsing and streaming.

Security & privacy. Bitdefender VPN ensures solid data security with industry-standard AES-256 encryption and offers seriously fast WireGuard and Catapult Hydra tunneling protocols. Additionally, it includes a functional kill switch and solid DNS leak protection, with WebRTC and IPv6 defences only available on Windows. Regarding privacy matters, Bitdefender VPN is based in the privacy-friendly jurisdiction of Romania and proclaims a no-logs policy, which was confirmed by independent audits.

Performance. The server fleet of 4,000+ servers in 50 countries is almost on par with some of the best options out there. On top of great connectivity, the WireGuard protocol also boosts the speeds and reliability. In our tests, Bitdefender VPN achieved speeds of up to 615Mbps. While these speeds are nowhere close to the fastest competitors, it’s more than enough for any daily use cases.

Features. A notable standout for Bitdefender VPN is its highly customizable auto-connect feature, offering options to set triggers for automatic connection in specific scenarios, like launching torrent clients. It also includes a system-wide ad blocker, split tunneling, and a fully configurable double-hop with freely selectable entry and exit server nodes. Additionally, the App Traffic Optimizer allows its users to prioritize specific applications, such as games, for maximum bandwidth and speed.

Streaming & P2P. Bitdefender VPN offers an excellent streaming experience with Netflix US, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and Disney+, but can sometimes struggle while breaching geo-blocks on a couple of international libraries. While its speeds are fully suitable for HD streaming, compatibility with platforms like game consoles and non-Android smart TVs is off the table. For torrenting, Bitdefender VPN allows torrenting on all of its servers, but doesn't support port forwarding.

Compatibility. This VPN is compatible with all major platforms like Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. While it lacks support for routers or any browser extensions, each available platform offers a commendable range of features. Finally, if you want to protect multiple devices, Bitdefender VPN allows up to 10 simultaneous connections.

Pricing. Bitdefender VPN offers good value for money, with plans starting at $2.92/month. Plus, if you’re not sure whether it’s the right fit, you can try Bitdefender VPN using its generous 30-day free trial and test it firsthand. After that, all plans are covered by a 30-day money-back guarantee, letting you continue risk-free.

For a deeper investigation of Bitdefender VPN, read our Bitdefender VPN review.

Top 7. IPVanish – reliable VPN with a free antivirus

IPVanish earns a place on our best VPNs list thanks to its strong encryption, decent speeds, and support for unlimited device connections. In our testing, it delivered stable performance and a high level of customization, while its built-in Threat Protection, powered by VIPRE, adds lightweight antivirus-style protection against malicious websites and online threats.

Security & privacy. IPVanish comes with all necessary VPN security features – AES 256-bit encryption, strong protection against DNS, IP, and WebRTC leaks, and a kill switch. Together, these tools help ensure the safety of your data during everyday use. IPVanish also offers a Secure Browser, which is a cloud-based, sandboxed browsing environment that helps block malicious content and trackers before they even reach your device. When it comes to privacy, IPVanish is based in the US, which some users may find concerning. Nevertheless, IPVanish earns users' trust with an independently audited no-logs policy.

Performance. Among several tunneling protocols to choose from is WireGuard, which delivers fast speed and stable connections. In our speed tests, IPVanish reached speeds of up to 621Mbps. For ultimate speed, IPVanish allows you to automatically connect to the fastest servers when you don't need a specific location. As for servers, IPVanish has a decent fleet of 3,200+ servers in 113+ countries.

Features. IPVanish comes with split tunneling features, but only for Android FireOS devices. To increase your security even further, the provider offers Stealth VPN known as the Scramble option. However, it can only be enabled for OpenVPN traffic. Another great feature is VIPRE antivirus, which serves as real-time protection from malware at no additional cost.

Streaming & P2P. IPVanish can unblock various Netflix libraries without any issues. However, for some reason, it struggled with some European libraries. Similarly, IPVanish had issues with BBC iPlayer. While it unlocked the service, the quality was very low. Other platforms it unblocks include HBO Max and YouTube. Torrenting, on the other hand, proves to be speedy, and IPVanish supports P2P traffic on all of its servers. As a result, you can download and upload files without much struggle across the entire server network.

Compatibility. The service includes dedicated applications for all major operating systems. You can also get clients for Android TVs, Amazon Fire TV Stick, and ChromeOS devices. It also supports routers if there's a need for it, and allows unlimited simultaneous device connections, making it easy to protect all your devices at once.

Pricing. IPVanish offers competitive pricing with plans starting at $2.99/month. So while it’s already affordable, you may find even better deals on the dedicated IPVanish coupons page. All plans longer than one month are covered by a 30-day money-back guarantee, and there’s also a 7-day free trial for mobile users.

For a deeper investigation of IPVanish, read our IPVanish review.

Top 8. ExpressVPN – performance-focused top VPN service

ExpressVPN is a secure and powerful VPN for a wide variety of applications. I tried the service myself and was pleasantly surprised by great speeds, access to various popular streaming services, and a powerful toolkit.

Security & privacy. ExpressVPN uses AES-256 encryption, along with leak protection and a reliable Network Lock kill switch to ensure advanced security of your online activities. It also comes with Private DNS on every server and a Shuffle IP feature to reduce tracking during longer sessions. Based in the British Virgin Islands, ExpressVPN is not subject to any data retention laws and has one of the strongest no-logs policy on the market. Not only is it independently audited, but it also has been proven in court twice.

Performance. While ExpressVPN is not the fastest provider on the market, it is certainly fast enough. In our speed tests, ExpressVPN reached speeds of up to 643Mbps, which is more than enough for streaming, gaming, and large downloads. It employs its proprietary Lightway protocol, which is derived from a market-standard WireGuard. A big part of ExpressVPN’s performance comes from an optimized and efficient fleet of 3,000+ RAM-only servers in 105+ countries.

Features. ExpressVPN comes with a Threat Manager to block trackers and malicious domains before they reach your device. You also get MediaStreamer, a tool powered by Smart DNS to bypass geo-restrictions on any device that doesn’t support native VPN apps. A newer addition is TrustedNetwork Services, which automatically enables or disables the VPN based on whether you’re connected to a trusted or untrusted Wi-Fi network. On top of that, it has a few handy features that don’t often come with a VPN, such as a password manager and secure cloud storage.

Streaming & P2P. Unblocking streaming platforms is no issue for ExpressVPN. It gave me access to Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and other online entertainment platforms. When it comes to torrenting, users can benefit from P2P, which is allowed on all servers. Furthermore, there’s a port forwarding feature to boost your torrents.

Compatibility. With Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android apps, ExpressVPN covers all compatibility bases. You can also install it on Android TV, Fire Stick, Chromebook, and Kindle Fire. There’s even an app for routers. Furthermore, there are browser add-ons for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave, and Opera. With a 14 simultaneous connection cap, you’ll be able to run the VPN on several devices.

Pricing. ExpressVPN offers premium VPN plans starting at $2.44/month, which is a bit more expensive, especially compared to other providers listed here. There’s a 3-day free trial on mobile devices, and ExpressVPN backs all plans with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Besides, you can check out ExpressVPN’s special deals for extra savings.

For a deeper investigation of ExpressVPN, read our ExpressVPN review.

Top 9. CyberGhost – solid VPN choice for budget-conscious users

While CyberGhost VPN is not the best VPN on the market, it remains a dependable VPN service with one of the largest server fleets available. During our testing, it delivered consistent performance for everyday use and stood out with a clear and transparent privacy policy. All this makes Cyberh a solid choice for users who seek simplicity, broad server coverage, and straightforward security features.

Security & privacy. CyberGhost ensures your data is protected with AES encryption, an automatic kill switch, and leak protection. It also includes ad blocking, malware protection, and an automatic HTTPS redirect to improve everyday browsing security. CyberGhost’s no-logs policy is independently audited and further enforced with its RAM-only infrastructure. Plus, the provider has a clear and transparent privacy policy that explicitly states it does not monitor or store users’ traffic data. Moreover, CyberGhost VPN operates in Romania – a privacy-friendly country.

Performance. While slower in speed than some of its competitors above, CyberGhost offers decent performance. During our testing, CyberGhost reached download speeds of up to 667Mbps and upload speeds of up to 408Mbps, which is more than sufficient for streaming and everyday browsing. It comes with a variety of tunneling protocols, with WireGuard as the fastest and most secure one. The best part about CyberGhost is the fleet of 9,887+ servers across 100+ countries.

Features. CyberGhost VPN offers user-friendly apps with automation tools like Smart Rules, Launch Rules, and Wi-Fi Protection, which all help manage VPN behavior automatically. Windows devices benefit from the CyberGhost Security Suite, a robust anti-malware and antivirus tool. Other perks include split-tunneling, a free SOCKS5 proxy, and ID Guard Monitoring which alerts about email or password leaks. Besides dedicated streaming and torrenting servers, CyberGhost also provides gaming-optimized servers.

Streaming & P2P. Since CyberGhost VPN offers specialized streaming servers, you can easily unblock major streaming services from anywhere in the world. These servers ensure fast connections, a full HD experience, and no buffering. CyberGhost lets you watch Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, and other popular platforms. Torrenting is also supported, as CyberGhost VPN offers a wide range of servers that allow P2P traffic for anonymous torrent downloading. Plus, there's a SOCKS5 if you need an extra performance boost for torrenting.

Compatibility. CyberGhost is available on all major platforms, including Android TV and Amazon Fire TV Stick devices. Manual configuration for routers is possible, and browser extensions for Chromium- and Firefox-based browsers (like Chrome, Firefox, and Edge) offer an added layer of protection. Connect up to 7 devices simultaneously for ultimate convenience.

Pricing. CyberGhost VPN offers affordable long-term plans, with prices starting at $1.75/month, but you may find better deals on the coupons page. You can also try CyberGhost VPN for free on Windows and macOS for 24 hours without providing payment details, or get a 7-day free trial on iOS and a 3-day free trial on Android via their respective app stores. All plans are backed by an extended 45-day money-back guarantee. Sadly, no free version is available.

For a deeper investigation of CyberGhost VPN, read our CyberGhost VPN review.

Top 10. PrivateVPN – best VPN for streaming at a low price

PrivateVPN is a great provider that is often overlooked among the market leaders. This VPN comes with a versatile set of practical implementations, great security, and usability that gives it an edge over some rivals.

Security & privacy. PrivateVPN pairs strong encryption with a kill switch and efficient protection against IP, DNS, and WebRTC leaks. While the provider does not use RAM-only servers, it relies on a high-quality network setup, which means that it’s leasing server capacity directly rather than using standard shared hosting environments. Furthermore, PrivateVPN claims a strict no-logs policy, though this has not yet been independently audited. PrivateVPN operates in Sweden, a country that is part of the Fourteen Eyes alliance. Despite that, Sweden prohibits data logging for VPN providers, which allows the service to operate without retaining user activity data.

Performance. The main difference between PrivateVPN and other providers is the server fleet. 200+ servers across 63+ countries, this provider is one of the smallest on the market, yet it has great performance. Despite lacking WireGuard, the trusted OpenVPN protocol facilitates stable, fast connections. In our speed tests, PrivateVPN’s speeds averaged around 573Mbps – more than enough for streaming, torrenting, and everyday browsing.

Features. This provider has several features to enhance security. For instance, an Application Guard lets you choose to terminate specific apps you don't want to open when a VPN stops working. Its port forwarding feature optimizes your connection for tasks like torrenting and gaming, allowing for faster speeds by creating direct connections to your network. If you need a VPN in a high-censorship situation, PrivateVPN has you covered with a Stealth VPN feature.

Streaming & P2P. Geo-block is not a problem with PrivateVPN. During my tests, it provided access to Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and other geo-restricted services. While there's no Smart DNS feature, PrivateVPN offers router support as an alternative. The VPN allows P2P on all of its servers. Plus, there's a SOCKS5 proxy feature to keep torrenters anonymous.

Compatibility. The service offers tailor-made applications for major platforms, including Android TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, and a Kodi add-on. It is also compatible with various devices like routers. With one account, users can have up to 10 simultaneous connections.

Pricing. PrivateVPN offers affordable VPN plans, starting at just $2.00/month. However, there might be even more attractive deals available. You can take advantage of their 7-day free trial, which is available directly from the provider's website. Alternatively, you can subscribe right away, knowing that your purchase is protected by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

For a deeper investigation of PrivateVPN, read our PrivateVPN review.

How I tested the best VPN providers

Testing providers' capabilities is a complex process that requires strict ranking criteria. These are the criteria I evaluated when testing the top VPN providers:

• Security. I picked providers with market-leading AES encryption and advanced tunnelling protocols, such as WireGuard and its variations NordLynx and Lightway. I also tested providers' IP leak protection and kill switch reliability. Other features like RAM-only servers and malware protection have placed providers at the top of my list.
• Privacy features. I looked into where providers are based to get a clearer view of what data retention laws apply to them. I didn't include any VPNs with shady logging practices.
• Server locations. As a rule of thumb, providers with small server fleets or that lack physical servers are underperforming. Thus, I picked providers with large server fleets and wide location coverage. This way, I ensured that providers offer fast and reliable service for all use cases.
• Streaming and torrenting. One of the most common reasons for using a VPN is for entertainment purposes. For that reason, it's important that providers would be suitable both for torrenting and streaming. I tried each VPN with the most popular streaming platform and evaluated their geo-bypassing performance. I also analyzed torrenting capabilities and features like P2P servers and SOCKS5 proxy.
• Cross-platform support. The best providers ensure that you can use their service even on devices that don't natively support VPN apps. I picked services that come with SmartDNS and apps for all major platforms. Additionally, I also took into consideration an unlimited simultaneous connections cap to ensure you'll be able to enjoy your VPN with all your devices.
• Pricing. The best VPNs on the market have a lot to offer, but you may be surprised that the providers on my list are rather cheap. That's because I filtered out VPNs with unreasonable pricing and kept only those with a feature pack to match the price tag.

While most VPNs fail to combine all necessary assets into a single service, NordVPN is an exception. The provider ticks all of the boxes in terms of security, versatility, performance, and pricing. Whether you're a fan of TV series, a torrenting enthusiast, or a gamer, NordVPN covers all the bases.

Other VPNs that I tested

After testing dozens of providers, many didn't make the cut into my list, mostly due to a lack of security, inadequate pricing, and lack of valuable features that can make a VPN a versatile security tool.

However, there are still some VPNs left that are worth mentioning. One of them is Private Internet Access. The provider has impressed us with efficient security and a massive server fleet. However, upon closer inspection, I realized that most of its servers are virtual.

Another VPN is Hotspot Shield. While it's fast and has great unblocking capabilities, the provider missed the mark in terms of privacy. I have a similar issue with Avast SecureLine VPN. Being a part of an antivirus bundle does guarantee great security. However, the same can't be said about privacy, especially since the provider does keep logs of your data.

What does a VPN do?

A VPN is a service that encrypts your traffic and hides your IP address from third parties. Those can include hackers, ISPs, and even the government. It also protects your personal information and ensures it's not being collected.

VPNs can be used not only for security and privacy but for changing your location as well. Many users need them for safe downloading and bypassing geo-blocked services, such as Netflix and other popular streaming platforms. And those who live in countries with restricted internet access can use a VPN to avoid firewalls, such as the Great Firewall of China.

One of the less-known ways to use a Virtual Private Network is getting better prices. Many online shops use different strategies in each country. With a VPN, you can save money by ordering a cheaper option from another location.

Finally, people often ask how to know if the VPN is working. This article explains everything in detail.

Can I trust a VPN service?

Top VPNs on the market are completely safe and reliable, but that doesn't mean they all are. However, some lesser-known VPNs, as well as free services, can't guarantee full security. So, how do you know which services you can trust? I recommend following this criteria:

• Privacy policy. Most providers outline what kind of information they collect (or don’t) in these policies. While it doesn’t mean they’re being completely honest, at least you’ll eliminate those that gather too much data.
• Independent audits. An independently-audited no-logs policy is a badge of honor not many services have. It indicates that what you’re doing while connected to the VPN isn’t being logged or stored anywhere.
• Court-proven. Another indication that no funny business is happening behind the scenes data-collection-wise is having a no-logs policy tested in court. If the judge asked for info and got nothing because there was nothing to give, your privacy will be in good hands.
• Reputation. Is the provider transparent about who runs the company? Were there any scandals regarding data breaches, information gathering, product management, or such? For example, did you know that Hotspot Shield is run by the same company that owns Betternet, a notoriously unsafe VPN service? The owner never publicly disclosed this, although they proudly presented the acquisition of JustVPN and TouchVPN.
• Jurisdiction. Ideally, the VPN operates far away from the Fourteen Eyes alliance. Countries that are members of it are known for sharing their citizens' private data with each other.

Also, make sure to stay up to date with the goings-on of the service market. It’s constantly in flux, and even incredibly popular providers sometimes find themselves in hot water. Or VPNs are acquired by less-than-trustworthy companies. Remember – using a compromised anonymity tool leaves you exposed to all kinds of risks!

Free VPN vs paid VPN which one is better?

According to my tests, paid VPNs perform much better than their free counterparts. They are also more secure and reliable. However, if you're on a tight budget, you may want to consider getting a freemium VPN, such as Proton VPN. While it lacks features and server locations, its free version is just as secure as a premium VPN. Free versions of paid providers are the only exceptions when considering free vs paid VPNs.

Now, let's take a closer look at the differences:

As you can see, paid VPNs win almost in every category. I should also mention that many free providers not only log but also sell your data to make money. Others might even inject your device with malware.

I advise taking advantage of a little loophole instead. Many VPNs offer free trial versions that include the full feature set and server list. You can combine it with the provider’s money-back guarantee to use the service scot-free for over a month.

For example, look at NordVPNs free 3-day trial. You can start the trial right after creating an account. Download the NordVPN app from the Google Play Store, create an account, and enjoy the full service at no cost for 3 days. You'll be automatically charged if you don’t cancel it before it ends. No worries – use NordVPN for a whole month and utilize the 30-day money-back guarantee to get a full refund. You end up not paying anything.

Are VPNs legal?

Mostly yes, but the legal status of VPN services depends on the laws of each country and other contextual factors. For example, the use of such technology is completely illegal in:

• Belarus
• Iran
• Iraq
• Turkey
• Turkmenistan
• Zimbabwe

Elsewhere, these services are restricted in some way – China and Russia are prime examples of this. Still, the majority of nations allow VPN usage. However, some actions people use these tools for can be illegal. Copyright infringements or hacking, for example, will get you into trouble regardless of country.

How to choose the right VPN for you

While some VPNs, such as the leading NordVPN, are good for pretty much all purposes, you still need to assess your specific needs before purchasing. Be it streaming, torrenting, or gaming, consider the features you'll use. Then, remember to ensure that the VPN you choose is suitable for your device.

Once you pinpoint what you're looking for, check out this specific VPN article to pick the best option.

Usually, it will be the best overall VPNs occupying most places. Nevertheless, you will also find some providers that excel in a particular category.

Conclusion

With dozens of VPN services on the market and many providers making similar promises, finding the right one can be overwhelming. That’s why we tested and compared top VPNs based on real-world performance, security, speed, privacy, streaming reliability, and overall value.

After extensive hands-on testing, NordVPN remains the best VPN overall in 2026, offering lightning-fast NordLynx speeds, advanced security features like Threat Protection Pro, and consistent access to geo-restricted content. That said, Surfshark is a great option for families or users with many devices, while TotalVPN remains the go-to choice for those who affordability. Ultimately, the best VPN depends on your priorities, but the options above cover a wide range of needs, budgets, and use cases.

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FAQ

Do I need a VPN?

I recommend everyone to use a VPN, especially if you need to connect to public Wi-Fi. A VPN will prevent third parties from intercepting your traffic. However, if you're not concerned about safety, a VPN can also be useful for streaming, bypassing restrictions, gaming, and torrenting, among other use cases.

Who provides the best VPN service?

According to my latest tests, NordVPN provides the best VPN service. It comes with a wide variety of features and top-notch security at a wallet-friendly price. Furthermore, the provider comes with a 3-day free trial, a 30-day money-back guarantee, and great customer support.

What is the best VPN in 2026?

The best VPN in 2026 is NordVPN. It is the most versatile provider that's suitable for a wide range of applications, such as streaming, torrenting, gaming, and more. It comes with a large fleet of 9,300 servers and 137 locations, as well as the most advanced security features.

What is the best free VPN?

Proton VPN is the best free VPN in 2026. It also has a strong premium version with more servers, features, and unlimited simultaneous connections. Find the Proton VPN description in my detailed list of the best providers.

What’s the fastest VPN?

NordVPN is the fastest VPN. It uses the NordLynx tunneling protocol, an in-house version of WireGuard that guarantees unparalleled performance across the globe. Besides, NordVPN uses only bare-metal servers and is already upgrading the fleet to 10 Gbps.

Are VPNs safe?

Yes, VPNs are safe if you use a trusted service with proven security standards. The safest VPNs use AES-256 encryption, leak protection, and independently audited no-logs policies. In our tests, NordVPN, Surfshark, and Proton VPN consistently ranked as the most secure options.

What is the most trusted VPN?

NordVPN is the VPN with the strongest security credentials in the market. It operates from Panama, adheres to a thrice independently audited no-logs policy, and offers robust applications that have passed security audits. Subscribers get industry-leading encryption, the latest tunnelling protocols, and access to a RAM-only server network.

What is the best VPN for Netflix?

NordVPN is the best VPN to watch Netflix. The provider can help you easily change the Netflix region by connecting to a server in another country. Plus, it also bypasses geo-blocking measures of other popular streaming platforms like Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and more.

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