The Best VPN Service of 2024

In addition to its Threat Protection and Dark Web features, NordVPN also offers a functional kill switch that worked perfectly.  I also liked the fact that you can choose from multiple type of servers, including P2P (which is great for torrenting), double VPN for added security, obfuscated to hide that you’re using a VPN, and a dedicated IP for a dedicated connection.

Of all the features NordVPN offered, one exclusive feature stood out the most to me – Meshnet – a virtual network that will allow multiple remote devices to connect and communicate with each other from anywhere in the world. Simply put, it allows users to access files on each other’s devices, making it one of the most versatile VPNs on the market.

NordVPN uses NordLynx – an in-house-developed protocol built on the backbone of WireGuard for added security. I also like that it uses RAM-only servers and AES-256 and ChaCha20 (with NordLynx) encryption which in my experience, I’ve found to be the most reliable. To prove its commitment to its users’ safety, NordVPN also has an independently audited no-log policy in place, which is something I always look out for when I’m testing VPN software.

Other features worth a mention including its Dark Web Monitoring tool, which scans the internet for any personal information leaks, and  Threat Protection, which provides real-time protection against malware and ads. It also, as expected, has a fully functional kill switch is in place (yes, I did test it).

In comparison to other VPNs, NordVPN has a very large server fleet of 6,300+ servers worldwide. These servers are located in 111 countries and are mainly owned by NordVPN, making them that much more secure.

The VPN offers obfuscated servers, which makes it feel like you’re not using a VPN at all. This helps in connecting to streaming platforms like Netflix, which may be limiting VPN use. Additionally, due to Smart DNS technology, it is possible to enjoy geo-unblocked content on devices that typically don’t support VPN applications.

NordVPN boasts about being blazing fast, so I put that claim to the test. I perform extensive speed testing throughout the year using the NordLynx protocol.

In my last test, I registered a stable 5-10% drop in speed in the nearby locations. Servers located further away saw a bigger drop of up to 20%. However, on average, NordVPN retained 73.37% of the original download and 73.39% of the upload speed. Overall, NordVPN proved to be the fastest VPN that I have tested.

Just like Surfshark, NordVPN also offers three different tiers and multiple billing periods. While each tier offers additional features, the number of simultaneous connections remains the same, allowing you to secure up to six devices.

• Standard – This plan comes with basic VPN functionality and threat protection protection.
• Plus – This option includes everything in the Standard plan, plus an ad blocker, password manager, premium threat protection, and data breach scanner.
• Ultimate – Includes everything in the Plus plan, alongside 1TB of file storage and NordLocker file encryption.

Unlike ExpressVPN or Surfshark, NordVPN doesn’t include any additional months for free. However, just like with the other two, you’ll be able to make use of its 30-day money-back guarantee if needed.

NordVPN is an excellent premium VPN that excels when it comes to security. Alongside tools like NordVPN’s Meshnet, the package also includes everything from web security tools and a password manager to encrypted storage – providing excellent value for money.

Alongside top-level security features, Surfshark includes a reliable kill switch that, during our testing, successfully stopped our internet connection when the VPN went down.

Another notable Surfshark feature is Camouflage, which makes it seem like you’re not using a VPN. You also get features like split tunneling, P2P-friendly servers for torrenting, a MultiHop – a double VPN connection for added security, GPS spoofing on Android, and an IP rotator feature.

To ensure top-level security, Surfshark uses highly secure AES-256 encryption and a speedy WireGuard tunneling protocol. The service operates on RAM-only servers and has a strict no-log policy that has been independently audited by Deloitte. The third party has consistently confirmed that no user data is being stored.

Surfshark also has numerous other features to enhance your online security. Providers’ CleanWeb tool allows secure, ad- and malware-free web search for more private browsing.

The alternative ID feature enables you to create and use an alternative email and persona online. NoBorder mode supports internet access around the globe, even where VPN use is limited or restricted. And Nexus technology automatically rotates your IP address in the chosen VPN country.

Surfshark offers 3,200+ servers in over 100 countries worldwide. Such a large server fleet enables users to access content from anywhere.

During our testing, I’ve tried streaming content on the most popular platforms, like Netflix, HBO Max, Hulu, and more. After testing numerous locations, like the US, Europe, Australia, and Japan, I have not encountered any difficulties and was left pleasantly surprised.

During our latest tests performed in January 2024, Surfshark has demonstrated very consistent performance. When using the WireGuard VPN protocol, on average, the provider managed to retain 73.43% of the original download and 79.82% of the upload speed. This makes Surfshark one of the fastest VPN providers on the market.

Surfshark is one of the most affordable premium VPN services on the market, offering three different plans. Regardless of which plan and billing term you choose, each subscription secures an unlimited number of devices.

• Surfshark Starter – The starter pack comes with a VPN, adblocker, and an alternative ID.
• Surfshark One – In addition to the Starter pack, the plan also includes antivirus, data breach alerts, and CleanWeb.
• Surfshark One+ – Featurewise, you get everything from Surfshark One, plus Incogni data removal service Incogni.

It’s important to note that once the billing term ends, prices will go back to the standard monthly rate. However, if the service isn’t what you expected, Surfshark offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Surfshark offers a superb package with fast connections, excellent security and privacy features, and the option to connect unlimited devices. It’s also remarkably affordable, making it a great pick for individuals and families.

ExpressVPN has many security features that help to keep users’ online activities secure. You can expect to find a reliable kill switch (Express calls it Network Lock) that has successfully passed our testing.

There’s also split tunneling, pre-installed Keys (password manager), and a Threat Manager that helps block trackers and malicious sites.

More so, the provider has its own router applet and MediaStreamer feature that enable you to stream content on devices that aren’t typically compatible with a VPN. While these functions aren’t vital, they do add to your convenience.

While WireGuard is a popular protocol option, ExpressVPN uses an in-house-developed alternative, Lightway. The protocol uses the market-standard AES-256 encryption and is just as fast as its counterpart.

Furthermore, like Surfshark and NordVPN, ExpressVPN has an independently audited no-log policy. Third-party audit firms PwC and Cure53 have confirmed that ExpressVPN’s TrustedServer technology, which runs on RAM-only servers, does not collect user data.

The only skeleton in the closet here is that ExpressVPN is owned by Kape Technologies, a company known for previously creating malicious adware. However, it seems that currently the VPN company is heavily focused on cybersecurity and has left its sketchy activities in the past.

ExpressVPN has more than 3,000 servers in 105 countries worldwide. While some competitors, like NordVPN, offer a larger server fleet (6,300+ servers), ExpressVPN offers quite a few rare locations, including Pakistan, Jersey, and Macau (China).

To test providers’ geo-unblocking capabilities, I tried accessing different content on the most popular streaming sites, like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, HBO Max, and more.

Throughout the testing, I have not encountered any issues and managed to access different streaming libraries in the US, the UK, Australia, and more.

In January 2024, I tested ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol. And I must admit, the results weren’t very impressive. On average, the provider kept only 49.91% of the original download and 52.55% of the upload broadband speed.

What made these results fairly conflicting was that the provider retained over 75% speed in some locations, while in others, the number dropped to just 36% at times.

ExpressVPN offers additional months free of charge when you subscribe to its long-term subscription plan at $6.67, or you can try it for 1 month for $12.95. Unlike Surfshark, which comes with unlimited connections, ExpressVPN caps simultaneous connections at eight devices.

Be mindful that these rates are available for the initial VPN service purchase, and after the renewal, prices will go back to a standard monthly rate.

So if you want to test the provider risk-free, it offers a 7-day free trial for Android and iOS mobile devices only. Plus, there’s a standard 30-day money-back guarantee in place.

ExpressVPN is a premium VPN provider best suited for users seeking for highly secure solution. In addition to robust security features, it also has great tools for secure and private gaming and streaming.

With PureVPN, you can connect up to ten devices simultaneously, including PC, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux. In addition, it has extensions for Google Chrome and Firefox and provides plenty of walkthroughs to help you connect to devices such as routers, Android TV, Kodi, and Amazon Firestick.

PureVPN is among the few VPN providers that offer Peer-to-Peer (P2P) optimized network connections integrated into apps for each major platform.

It provides a virtual IP for P2P traffic that keeps your identity confidential, even from your ISP, since the files shared with you go through your VPN-provided IP instead of the ISP-provided address.

That makes it easy to get around regional limitations and avoid bandwidth throttling, and it increases your security while downloading files over the P2P networks with the industry-standard AES 256-bit encryption.

PureVPN operates over 6,000 servers in 65+ countries and offers access to 300,000+ IP addresses.

Regarding its speed, PureVPN is a futureproof VPN service, thanks to its 20Gbps servers in various locations. All of its servers in France, Germany, and the Netherlands are ready for the advancement of 5G technology and hypersonic speeds, as well as Los Angeles, Miami, Atlanta, Phoenix, and Salt Lake City US servers.

Besides its superb connectivity, PureVPN keeps you safe with its DNS and IP leak protection, Internet Kill Switch (IKS), and no-log policy.

Paying for a 24-month subscription that costs as little as $2.14/month nets you four additional months.

Stream content from Netflix and other popular platforms, connect to 6,000+ servers on up to 10 devices simultaneously, and stay anonymous while browsing with this affordable VPN service. Try it risk-free today, thanks to its 31-day money-back guarantee.

PureVPN is great for streaming, torrenting, and bypassing geo-blocks. The substantial global server network, a large library of IP addresses, and optimized servers ensure you’ll always have a positive experience.

CyberGhost offers quite a few security features, like an automatic kill switch, which I have tested and faced no issues with, an adblocker, and a dedicated IP.

Additionally, this VPN has many types of servers to offer, so users looking to torrent, game, or stream content will definitely have options. Previously, CyberGhost used to have a password manager too.

However, due to user inactivity regarding the tool, it was eventually scrapped. Instead, the provider has developed something much more unique: Smart Rules.

This feature enables users to configure the VPN to their liking. You can make exceptions for sites or apps you’d like to use without a VPN connection. More so, it’s possible to set up an automatic connection to a chosen site whenever you open a particular app or page.

Just like our top 3 VPN providers, CyberGhost also uses military-grade AES-256 encryption and provides users with multiple protocol options, including WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2. In addition, its no-log policy passed an independent audit, confirming that the VPN is not collecting any user data.

Additionally, the provider uses RAM-only NoSpy servers that are fully managed by CyberGhost and are regularly wiped of any user data. However, be mindful that just like ExpressVPN, CyberGhost is also owned by Kape Technology.

CyberGhost has one of the largest server fleets available on the market, with over 11,700 servers in 100 countries worldwide. On top of that, a large number of them are optimized for streaming specifically.

So I’ve put the dedicated streaming servers to the test and managed to successfully unblock content on Netflix, HBO Max, Hulu, and Disney+. However, it’s worth noting that, due to significant speed reductions, I experienced lagging when streaming HD videos.

I tested CyberGhost’s connection speed using the WireGuard protocol. During our examination, I registered consistently good speeds from close-by locations (85-90% of the original speed), while farther-away servers struggled to provide good results.

Overall, on average, CyberGhost managed to keep 62.73% of the original download and just 26.33% of the upload speed.

You can gain access to CyberGhost’s impressive server fleet of nearly 10,000 servers for just $2.19/month if you opt for its two-year-long plan.

Like Surfshark, CyberGhost rewards first-time users with four extra months when they subscribe to its long-term plan. The plan also allows for seven simultaneous connections.

Overall, the provider is fairly affordable, especially compared to ExpressVPN. However, if you’d like to test the provider before making the commitment, it offers a free VPN trial. There are multiple options, actually – a 24-hour trial for Windows and macOS, three days free for Android users, and seven days for iOS.

Now, if you did make the commitment, yet CyberGhost didn’t live up to your expectations, there’s a 45-day money-back guarantee. What’s very unique is that even its 1-month subscription has a money-back guarantee of 14 days.

CyberGhost is a great pick for encryption and go-bypassing, making it ideal for streaming geo-specific content from anywhere. Having access to multiple VPN protocols and RAM-only servers means you can be confident in the security of your data too.

ProtonVPN offers a Secure Core architecture, a multi-hop system that routes traffic through multiple servers in privacy-friendly countries, significantly reducing the risk of network-based attacks. There’s also a NetShield tool that blocks ads, protects against malware, and filters out potentially dangerous websites.

Its Tor over VPN feature lets you easily route your internet traffic through the Tor network without using the Tor browser. A flexible split tunneling feature allows selective traffic routing through the VPN.

Thanks to the VPN Accelerator, performance isn’t sacrificed for security. It optimizes connection speeds, especially on long-distance servers. However, competitors like NordVPN, with its NordLynx protocol, still generally offer faster speeds across their networks.

Additionally, you can create Customizable Profiles to save specific VPN configurations for quick access. I suggest using this feature to save your most frequently used VPN configurations.

To enhance your viewing experience, ProtonVPN offers Streaming Optimization with dedicated servers for accessing geo-restricted content, while its Alternative Routing feature helps find the fastest server paths.

ProtonVPN employs AES-256 encryption and supports leading protocols such as OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard.

An automatic kill switch cuts internet access if the VPN connection drops, while perfect forward secrecy adds an extra layer of protection by regularly changing encryption keys.

Headquartered in Switzerland, ProtonVPN follows a strict no-log policy and benefits from strong privacy laws outside EU and US jurisdictions.

ProtonVPN has a network of over 6,000 servers spread across 100+ countries. This extensive coverage facilitates reliable access to geo-restricted content from major streaming platforms.

During our tests, ProtonVPN successfully unblocked popular services like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video across various regions. However, unlike ExpressVPN, ProtonVPN does not work in China.

ProtonVPN demonstrated solid performance in our speed tests. In the US, it achieved 90% download and 89% upload speed retention. Other tested locations also showed good results, with download retention ranging from 63% to 84% and upload retention between 66% and 81%.

While the speeds are commendable, some competitors like NordVPN and ExpressVPN may offer faster connections in certain regions. However, ProtonVPN’s performance is sufficient for most online activities, including 4K streaming and large file transfers.

ProtonVPN offers three billing terms, the cheapest of which is $3.59/month. There’s also a free plan that provides unlimited bandwidth and access to servers in the US, Romania, Japan, Poland, and the Netherlands.

All paid plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to test the service risk-free. Additionally, ProtonVPN accepts various payment methods, including Bitcoin, further enhancing user privacy.

ProtonVPN is ideal for users who prioritize privacy and security. It is particularly suited for journalists, activists, or anyone operating in sensitive environments who require the highest level of online anonymity and data protection.

TotalVPN’s antivirus software allows for real-time threat detection while browsing, adding extra protection against malware and phishing attempts.

TotalVPN includes a WebShield feature, which automatically blocks low-trust websites and crypto-mining URLs. On the other hand, the Smart Scan feature allows users to schedule automated scans for malware, tracking cookies, and junk files, ensuring a clean browsing environment.

The software also offers identity theft protection that monitors your personal information, like credit card details and Social Security numbers, to prevent online fraud.

Additionally, TotalVPN’s System Tune-up tool optimizes your device performance by removing junk files and managing browser history and cookies.

TotalVPN utilizes military-grade AES-256 encryption and a kill switch feature to prevent data and real IP leaks.

Additionally, the VPN supports multiple protocols, including OpenVPN and IKEv2. However, I couldn’t find any mention of WireGuard support, which is offered by most competitors and has a reputation for speed and efficiency.

Based in the United Kingdom, TotalVPN falls under the jurisdiction of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance. Despite this, the company operates under a strict no-logs policy, which has yet to be validated through an independent third-party audit.

TotalVPN also offers DNS leak protection and WebRTC leak prevention, ensuring that your real IP address remains hidden during browsing sessions.

TotalVPN’s network comprises over 50 servers across 30+ countries, offering a modest global presence. While smaller than some competitors, this network provides sufficient options for most users’ geo-unblocking needs.

TotalVPN successfully unblocked major streaming platforms, including Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+. However, it lacks obfuscated servers, which limits its effectiveness in countries with strict internet censorship, like Saudi Arabia and China.

In my testing of TotalVPN, I’ve observed a consistent 30% reduction in download speeds. While noticeable, it still allowed for smooth HD streaming and general browsing.

Upload speeds, however, were more heavily affected, with losses ranging from 62% to 70%. This could concern users who frequently share large files or participate in video calls.

TotalVPN has a single plan option, retailing for $29.00 for the first year. The plan includes core antivirus functionalities, a Total Adblock feature, and a standard 30-day money-back guarantee. However, there is no free version.

TotalVPN is particularly well-suited for casual browsers who want a strong and affordable VPN and antivirus combo without having to compromise on browsing speed or ease of use.

PrivadoVPN offers a beginner-friendly interface across all supported platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. The consistent design makes it easy for beginners to navigate the app, regardless of their device.

PrivadoVPN comes with an automatic server selection feature, which analyzes network conditions and connects you to the optimal server based on your location and network performance.

The auto-connect feature ensures that you’re always protected when accessing the Internet. This automatic safeguard is particularly valuable for those who might forget to activate their VPN manually.

PrivadoVPN also includes a split tunneling, called SmartRoute, which allows users to easily choose which apps use the VPN connection.

Additionally, the Control Tower suite offers comprehensive protection, including parental controls, ad blocking, and defense against online threats.

PrivadoVPN employs industry-standard AES-256 encryption and includes a robust kill switch. You can choose from multiple protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard, allowing you to balance security and speed as you become more familiar with VPN technology.
PrivadoVPN operates under privacy-friendly Swiss jurisdiction and maintains a strict no-logs policy. However, like TotalVPN, this policy hasn’t been independently audited yet.

The service also offers DNS leak protection and an option to use PrivadoVPN’s secure DNS servers, further safeguarding your privacy. For added anonymity, the SOCKS5 proxy feature provides an extra layer of protection, beneficial for P2P activities.

PrivadoVPN operates a compact network of 300+ servers across 49 countries. While not the largest fleet, it provides sufficient coverage for most beginners’ needs.

PrivadoVPN provides access to several popular streaming platforms, including Netflix, HBO Max, and Disney+. However, you might encounter difficulties when unblocking certain services, such as Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video.

Additionally, its servers are optimized for P2P and streaming, and the service works in some restricted areas like China.

For most users, particularly beginners, PrivadoVPN’s performance offers an excellent balance of speed and reliability.

During the testing, I’ve examined two protocols: OpenVPN and WireGuard. OpenVPN achieved speeds of 12-13% of the base speed. While adequate for basic browsing and streaming, this falls short of top competitors.

However, the WireGuard protocol significantly boosted performance, with speeds reaching 60-72% of the baseline.

PrivadoVPN provides three main subscription options:

All plans include the same features, with longer subscriptions offering significant discounts. PrivadoVPN also offers a generous free plan with 10GB of monthly data and access to 12 server locations, perfect testing the service without committing.

Additionally, all paid plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

PrivadoVPN is ideal for VPN beginners who need an affordable, easy-to-use service with essential features.

IPVanish offers a range of features tailored for mobile users. The Auto-connect on startup provides immediate protection when your device is turned on. While the On-Demand feature connects the VPN when accessing untrusted networks, ensuring device security. This is particularly valuable for users who frequently switch between Wi-Fi networks.

To optimize performance, server sorting by ping time helps mobile users quickly find the fastest connections. Functional split tunneling allows users to customize the VPN connection and route specific apps through the VPN while others use the regular connection.

The Obfuscation feature masks VPN traffic as regular internet traffic to help bypass strict network and geographical restrictions, like in China.

Additionally, Siri Shortcuts integration enables iOS users to make quick VPN connections through voice commands.

IPVanish utilizes AES-256 encryption and offers a range of protocols, including IKEv2, OpenVPN, and WireGuard, with IKEv2 being particularly well-suited for mobile devices.

However, IPVanish is based in the United States, a member of the Five Eyes alliance. While this might raise some concern, the company maintains a strict no-logs policy, which has been independently audited.

For additional mobile security, IPVanish offers DNS leak protection and IPv6 leak protection, ensuring that your smartphone’s real IP address and DNS queries remain hidden.

IPVanish has a server network with 2,200+ servers across 75+ different locations. In our tests, it successfully unblocked major streaming platforms on mobile devices, including Netflix (US, UK, and Canada libraries), BBC iPlayer, YouTube TV, and Disney+.

However, IPVanish was inconsistent in unblocking Amazon Prime Video and had difficulties with Hulu.

Despite this, I’d recommend IPVanish for gamers due to its specially optimized servers that help minimize latency and enhance the overall gaming experience.

During our performance tests with WireGuard, connections to US servers retained about 75% of the base speed for both download and upload. UK servers performed even better, with 79% retention for downloads and 82% for uploads. Even distant servers in Australia managed to maintain 79% of the base download speed, though upload speeds dropped to around 31%.

These results place IPVanish among the best VPNs for mobile.

IPVanish offers plans that accommodate both short-term and long-term needs:

All plans come with unlimited simultaneous connections, making IPVanish a good value for users with multiple devices.

The service also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, except for the month-to-month plan. Plus, a 7-day free trial on iOS and Android devices is accessible through their respective app stores.

IPVanish’s unlimited connections and mobile apps make it perfect for individuals or families looking to protect multiple smartphones and tablets without compromising performance.