1️⃣NordVPN
NordVPN tops our speed and streaming tests with rock-solid privacy. Meshnet and Threat Protection add real everyday value. It unblocked major libraries and kept ping low for gaming.
Address: Panama City, Panama
- fastest servers in our tests
- independent audits
- RAM-only network
- great for Netflix
- Hulu
- BBC iPlayer
- Meshnet device routing
- advanced kill switch
- low latency for gaming
- UI can feel busy to first-time users
- monthly plan is pricier than annual
2️⃣ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN delivers consistently high speeds and best-in-class apps on every device. Lightway protocol starts fast and stays stable. It's a premium pick for travelers who want one-tap privacy anywhere.
Address: Road Town, British Virgin Islands
- super reliable global network
- excellent apps on desktop and mobile
- Lightway protocol is fast and stable
- top-tier customer support
- works in restrictive regions
- streaming friendly
- higher price than most competitors
- no dedicated IP option
3️⃣Surfshark
Surfshark packs unlimited devices and strong features at a wallet-friendly price. CleanWeb blocks ads and trackers, and the interface is simple. Speeds can vary on faraway servers.
Address: The Hague, Netherlands
- unlimited device connections
- great value on long plans
- CleanWeb ad and tracker blocking
- modern
- easy UI
- multi-hop and rotating IP options
- inconsistent speeds on distant locations
- occasional captchas when rotating IP is enabled
- some support replies feel scripted
4️⃣CyberGhost VPN
CyberGhost offers task-based profiles that make it easy to pick the best server for streaming or torrenting. It has lots of locations and beginner-friendly apps. Desktop app can feel heavy, and short plans cost more.
Address: Bucharest, Romania
- streaming-optimized servers
- big server list
- intuitive onboarding
- good for casual users
- desktop app can be sluggish on older PCs
- hit-or-miss performance on crowded servers
- short-term pricing is steep
- parent company history concerns some users
5️⃣Private Internet Access
PIA is an open-source favorite with deep customization for power users. It's affordable and flexible with ports and encryption. Not the fastest, and streaming success varies by region.
Address: Denver, Colorado, USA
- open-source apps
- highly customizable encryption and ports
- very low price on long plans
- allows advanced configurations
- average speeds compared to top two
- inconsistent streaming unlocks
- US-based ownership may deter privacy purists
- interface looks dated to some