In an age where online privacy and digital freedom are under constant threat, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have become essential tools for anyone looking to secure their connection and remain anonymous online. From encrypting data over public Wi-Fi to bypassing geo-blocked streaming services, VPN software now caters to both casual users and seasoned professionals alike. But not all VPNs are created equal. Some excel at speed and global server coverage, while others shine in privacy, torrenting, or streaming compatibility. This comprehensive top 10 list dives deep into the world’s best VPN software offerings, analyzing performance, features, drawbacks, and unique histories behind each tool. Whether you’re browsing from a coffee shop in Texas or trying to stream UK-only content from California, this guide will help you choose the right VPN for your needs.
#1: Gold Award: ExpressVPN ($$$)
ExpressVPN stands tall at the top of this list thanks to its outstanding balance of speed, security, and versatility. Founded in 2009 and headquartered in the privacy-friendly British Virgin Islands, ExpressVPN boasts more than 3,000 high-performance servers spread across 94 countries. These servers operate using RAM-only TrustedServer technology, which means no data is ever stored long term—an innovation that sets ExpressVPN apart from most competitors.
One of its most prized assets is the Lightway protocol, developed in-house to offer lightning-fast speeds and seamless connectivity while maintaining robust security standards. Lightway is lighter and faster than OpenVPN, reducing battery consumption and increasing connection times, especially for mobile users. ExpressVPN also supports OpenVPN, IKEv2, and L2TP/IPsec, offering versatility for advanced users. Its intuitive apps work across nearly all platforms—Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and routers—with minimal setup required. Whether you’re accessing Netflix libraries from different countries or safeguarding data on public Wi-Fi, ExpressVPN performs effortlessly. It includes built-in DNS leak protection, an automatic kill switch (Network Lock), split tunneling, and supports up to five simultaneous devices per account.
While its pricing is higher than average, the premium service, stellar 24/7 live chat support, and consistent performance justify the cost. Notably, ExpressVPN has passed multiple third-party security audits from firms like PwC and Cure53, demonstrating its commitment to transparency and trustworthiness. A fascinating side note: ExpressVPN has been endorsed by journalists and human rights activists around the world, especially in censorship-heavy countries. It was also one of the first VPNs to launch a bug bounty program, encouraging ethical hackers to probe its defenses.
246+ user ratings with an average of 4.3
#2: Silver Award: NordVPN ($$)
NordVPN, a powerful and feature-rich VPN based in Panama, offers a rare mix of strong encryption, high-speed connections, and a wide array of advanced tools. With more than 5,800 servers in 60+ countries, it’s one of the most well-equipped networks on this list, especially if you’re looking for options tailored to different use cases like P2P, obfuscated connections, or ultra-secure browsing.
The app’s interface is clean, intuitive, and designed for both newcomers and seasoned tech users. A highlight of NordVPN’s infrastructure is its proprietary NordLynx protocol—a customized version of WireGuard that maintains WireGuard’s blazing speed while enhancing its privacy through double NAT (Network Address Translation). This results in fast, private, and stable performance across all devices. Security is where NordVPN truly shines. Beyond AES-256 encryption and a no-logs policy (validated through independent audits), it offers unique options like Double VPN (routing your traffic through two separate VPN servers for extra anonymity), Onion over VPN (Tor compatibility), and built-in malware blocking via Threat Protection. Unlike basic VPNs, NordVPN even shields users from trackers and infected sites before they load.
It works flawlessly with major streaming platforms, including Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Prime Video, bypassing geo-blocks with ease. However, some users have reported rare hiccups with certain servers being temporarily blacklisted by platforms. An interesting historical note: NordVPN started in 2012, created by a group of childhood friends passionate about internet freedom. It has since grown into a household name in cybersecurity, backed by millions of users globally and partnerships with organizations that advocate for internet privacy and net neutrality.
645+ user ratings with an average of 4.0
#3: Bronze Award: Surfshark
Surfshark is a relatively young VPN—launched in 2018—but it has quickly established itself as a top-tier provider. Registered in the Netherlands and now part of the Nord Security family, Surfshark offers serious bang for your buck. It allows unlimited simultaneous connections, meaning you can protect all your devices (and your family’s too) under a single subscription, which is rare among premium VPNs. Surfshark operates over 3,200 servers across 100+ countries, offering superb global coverage.
Performance is fast and reliable, thanks to its implementation of the WireGuard protocol. You’ll find standard features like AES-256 encryption, kill switch, DNS leak protection, and split tunneling (Bypasser), but Surfshark pushes further with MultiHop (double VPN routing), CleanWeb (built-in ad and tracker blocker), and Camouflage Mode, which hides VPN use from ISPs.
The interface is sleek and beginner-friendly, available across all major platforms. It’s one of the best VPNs for streaming, easily unlocking content from Netflix, HBO Max, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. Torrenting is allowed on all servers and supported by optimized routing. While Surfshark is one of the best-priced options on the market, a few drawbacks remain. Some desktop users have experienced connection drops when switching servers quickly, and macOS users may notice minor UI inconsistencies. Still, these are relatively small quibbles compared to the overall value. A unique fact: Surfshark was the first VPN to offer an integrated “Search” and “Alert” bundle, which checks if your credentials have been compromised and lets you browse ad-free with a private search engine.
43,959+ user ratings with an average of 4.0
#4: CyberGhost VPN
CyberGhost VPN, headquartered in Romania, is one of the oldest names in the VPN industry, having launched in 2011. With a user base exceeding 38 million people and a server network boasting over 9,100 servers in 91 countries, CyberGhost has cultivated a reputation for combining accessibility with advanced capabilities. It’s one of the best VPNs for streaming and torrenting, offering specialized servers explicitly optimized for services like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and even sports platforms such as DAZN.
CyberGhost’s apps are available across Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, and even Smart TVs and gaming consoles via Smart DNS. The interface is welcoming to beginners, with one-click connections and profiles for specific tasks—like “Surf Anonymously,” “Torrent Anonymously,” or “Unblock Streaming.” For advanced users, CyberGhost includes WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols, AES-256 encryption, kill switch protection, and DNS leak prevention. Additionally, its “NoSpy” servers—located in a high-security data center in Romania—are independently operated and maintained for ultimate control.
One of CyberGhost’s strongest suits is its transparency. The company was one of the first VPNs to publish an annual Transparency Report detailing legal requests it receives (and refuses), as well as internal security practices. However, it’s worth noting that CyberGhost is now part of the same ownership group as PIA and ZenMate, which some privacy purists may view as a concern despite the company’s no-logs policy. Another useful feature is Smart Rules—automation tools that let users configure behaviors like launching the VPN when a specific app is opened or auto-connecting on unsecured Wi-Fi networks. While CyberGhost isn’t ideal for users who want granular networking control or CLI-based tools, it’s a powerhouse for streaming and daily secure browsing.
13,753+ user ratings with an average of 3.4
#5: Private Internet Access (PIA)
Private Internet Access (PIA) has earned the loyalty of tech-savvy users since its founding in 2010. Based in the United States—a location that might raise eyebrows due to intelligence alliances—it has nevertheless proven its zero-logs policy in court on more than one occasion, which speaks volumes about its trustworthiness. PIA offers an industry-leading 35,000+ servers across 84 countries, giving it arguably the most comprehensive server coverage on this list.
This VPN is all about customization. Users can control encryption levels (AES-128 or AES-256), authentication methods, and even port forwarding for torrent optimization. Its app supports OpenVPN, WireGuard, and SOCKS5 proxy and is available for almost every platform, including routers and browser extensions. Despite its advanced feature set, PIA’s interface is relatively intuitive, making it usable for both beginners and power users.
PIA is also one of the most transparent VPNs on the market. Its apps are fully open-source, allowing third-party audits and user scrutiny. The company releases regular transparency reports and recently completed an independent audit of its no-logs policy. Torrenting is allowed on all servers, and speeds are consistently good, although not always the fastest in long-distance connections. While it’s not as strong at unblocking streaming services like BBC iPlayer or DAZN, PIA works well with Netflix, YouTube, and Hulu. Its built-in ad and tracker blocker, known as MACE, adds an extra layer of protection against malware and phishing sites.
7,733+ user ratings with an average of 4.0
#6: Proton VPN
Proton VPN is the brainchild of the Swiss-based team behind ProtonMail, a secure email service trusted by journalists and activists worldwide. Created in 2017 and headquartered in Switzerland, Proton VPN benefits from the country’s rigorous privacy protections and neutrality. The software is particularly popular among users who prioritize open-source, transparency, and ethical technology development.
Proton VPN’s infrastructure consists of 3,200+ servers in over 65 countries, including a specialized group called Secure Core servers. These route your traffic through hardened, privacy-centric data centers in Iceland, Sweden, and Switzerland before exiting to the broader internet, making it incredibly difficult for adversaries to trace your origin. The software offers AES-256 encryption, OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec, and WireGuard support, as well as DNS leak prevention and an automatic kill switch. The interface is streamlined yet informative, displaying server load and ping data, which helps users make optimized choices. Proton VPN has a unique edge in its free version—unlike most, it has no data cap and is fully usable, albeit with fewer server
Its paid tier unlocks features like Tor over VPN, NetShield ad-blocker, P2P file sharing, and up to 10 simultaneous device connections. While its Secure Core servers offer unmatched privacy, they are slower by design, which may not appeal to those seeking pure speed. Proton VPN has been used by dissidents in repressive regimes to bypass censorship, and the company has made portions of its infrastructure available for free during global crises—such as when it supported access to uncensored internet during political upheaval in Belarus and Iran.
1,743+ user ratings with an average of 3.9
#7: IPVanish ($)
IPVanish is a U.S.-based VPN provider that delivers solid performance and exceptional customizability, making it a favorite among more experienced users. With over 2,200 servers in 75+ countries, what sets IPVanish apart is that it owns and operates its entire server network. This full-stack control allows for faster troubleshooting, better server security, and optimized speeds—something few competitors can claim.
IPVanish offers unlimited simultaneous device connections under one subscription, making it an economical choice for large families or tech enthusiasts with multiple devices. The software supports WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPSec protocols, and comes loaded with security features like AES-256 encryption, DNS leak protection, LAN blocking, and an automatic kill switch. The user interface, while highly functional, leans toward a more technical design that might overwhelm VPN beginners. However, for those who know their way around ports, tunneling, and encryption preferences, IPVanish is a treasure trove of fine-tuning options. It includes a built-in SOCKS5 proxy, a rare feature that’s especially handy for torrenting and accessing restricted content at higher speeds.
Streaming support is hit-or-miss. While IPVanish reliably unblocks Netflix and YouTube, it struggles with platforms like BBC iPlayer or Disney+ more often than not. On the plus side, it provides strong speeds for video conferencing, gaming, and file-sharing, and offers dedicated apps across Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire Stick, and even Chrome OS. Controversy has surrounded IPVanish in the past, notably a 2016 case where the company handed over user data to authorities. Although this violated the no-logs policy it claimed at the time, IPVanish has since been acquired by a new parent company and restructured its logging practices. It now adheres to a strict zero-log framework and has undergone independent verification. Unique bonus: all annual IPVanish plans come bundled with 500 GB of secure cloud storage via SugarSync. This adds enormous value for users who want a VPN and encrypted backup solution in one streamlined package.
94,401+ user ratings with an average of 3.0
#8: Atlas VPN
Atlas VPN is a relatively new entry in the market, having launched in 2019, but it has already made waves—especially after its acquisition by Nord Security, the parent company behind NordVPN. Based in the U.S., Atlas VPN was designed to be an affordable and fast VPN with beginner-friendly features. It now supports over 1,000 servers in more than 42 countries and continues to grow its reach globally. Atlas VPN offers many features that cater to users new to VPNs. Its interface is extremely straightforward, and it supports modern protocols like WireGuard for optimal speed and performance.
One of its standout features is SafeSwap, which lets users rotate IP addresses during a session from a single server location. This makes tracking and fingerprinting significantly more difficult for online trackers and marketers. Despite its minimalistic approach, Atlas VPN packs a solid punch under the hood. It includes kill switch protection, DNS leak protection, and SafeBrowse (a feature that blocks malicious websites). The VPN supports torrenting, unblocks Netflix, and works well with YouTube, HBO Max, and some regional streaming services. It also offers a free plan with generous data limits and decent server speeds—an excellent way to test its capabilities.
That said, there are areas for improvement. The server network is relatively small, and the app lacks advanced configuration settings that more technical users might desire. Also, some logs related to crash reports and device analytics are stored, though Atlas claims none of this compromises user privacy. Atlas VPN became one of the first freemium VPNs to offer a breach monitoring tool, which scans the dark web for leaked credentials and notifies users if their email appears in a data breach. It’s a powerful extra layer of digital defense wrapped into a simple, accessible product.
#9: Mullvad VPN ($$)
Mullvad VPN, based in Sweden, is the most privacy-focused VPN on this list. If anonymity is your top priority, Mullvad is nearly unbeatable. It operates under a strict no-logs policy and collects zero identifiable informatio—not even your email address. When you sign up, you receive a randomly generated account number. That’s it. No names, no credentials, no nonsense. Mullvad operates a modest network of about 800+ servers in 40+ countries. While this may seem small compared to others, each server is bare-metal and owned by Mullvad. There are no rented or virtual servers in its network, which drastically reduces the risk of third-party compromise.
The software supports WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols and allows port forwarding, split tunneling, and bridge mode for deep packet obfuscation. Unlike many VPNs that chase after streaming and gaming audiences, Mullvad focuses purely on privacy. It doesn’t market itself as a Netflix-unlocker or a gamer’s dream, and it rarely works with streaming platforms by design. However, it performs admirably for secure browsing, P2P sharing, and evading censorship in high-surveillance regions
The interface is clean and minimal, with few bells and whistles. Mullvad also regularly publishes internal audits, partners with independent security researchers, and even accepts payments in cash or cryptocurrency, mailed to their headquarters. Mullvad has long advocated for internet freedom and privacy rights and has publicly criticized invasive legislation like the EU’s data retention laws. It’s one of the only VPNs that has been actively involved in policy debates around encryption and internet surveillance.
1,082+ user ratings with an average of 4.7
#10: TunnelBear ($)
TunnelBear is the most whimsical VPN on this list—and that’s not a bad thing. With its adorable bear-themed branding and growl sounds when connecting to servers, TunnelBear has done more than almost any other VPN to bring privacy tools into the mainstream. Launched in 2011 and acquired by McAfee in 2018, TunnelBear is based in Canada and operates servers in over 47 countries.
What makes TunnelBear special is its simplicity. It’s arguably the easiest VPN to use, with a user interface so friendly even non-tech users can get started in seconds. You can download the app on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, and it automatically chooses the fastest server for you. Despite its playful appearance, TunnelBear is quite serious about privacy. It uses AES-256 encryption, has passed multiple independent audits, and features VigilantBear (kill switch) and GhostBear (VPN obfuscation for censored regions).
The free version provides 500 MB of monthly data—too little for streaming but enough for secure browsing on public Wi-Fi. The paid version removes data caps and allows up to five simultaneous connections. While it can unblock some streaming services, it isn’t the best VPN for binge-watchers. It’s also limited in terms of configuration options, making it less ideal for power users or those with complex networking needs. TunnelBear was one of the first VPN companies to open-source its entire client app and publish detailed security audits for public scrutiny, further cementing its commitment to transparency and user trust.
Side-By-Side Comparisons
| Product | Price Range | Pros | Cons | Servers | Countries | Protocols | Unique Features | Streaming Support | Torrenting Support | Jurisdiction | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1: ExpressVPN | | $$$ | Fast speeds, top-tier privacy, great for streaming | More expensive, limited to 5 devices | 3,000+ | 94 | Lightway, OpenVPN | RAM-only servers | Yes | Yes | British Virgin Islands |
| #2: NordVPN | | $$ | Secure, fast with NordLynx, excellent for streaming | Occasional UI bugs, support delays | 5,800+ | 60+ | NordLynx, OpenVPN | Double VPN, Onion over VPN | Yes | Yes | Panama |
| #3: Surfshark |  | Unlimited devices, great value, MultiHop support | Minor macOS glitches | 3,200+ | 100+ | WireGuard, OpenVPN | CleanWeb, NoBorders | Yes | Yes | Netherlands | |
| #4: CyberGhost VPN | | Streaming-optimized servers, large network | Basic customization, speed drops on distant servers | 9,100+ | 91 | WireGuard, OpenVPN | Dedicated streaming/torrenting servers | Yes | Yes | Romania | |
| #5: PIA | | Highly customizable, open-source, huge server base | U.S.-based, slower long-distance speeds | 35,000+ | 84 | WireGuard, OpenVPN | SOCKS5, MACE blocker | Yes | Partial | USA | |
| #6: Proton VPN | | Excellent privacy, Secure Core routing, open-source | Secure Core servers can be slow | 3,200+ | 65+ | WireGuard, OpenVPN | Tor over VPN, NetShield | Yes | Partial | Switzerland | |
| #7: IPVanish | | Owns its servers, good for P2P, includes cloud storage | Past privacy concerns, mixed streaming | 2,200+ | 75+ | WireGuard, OpenVPN | SOCKS5, SugarSync bundle | Yes | Partial | USA | |
| #8: Atlas VPN | | Simple UI, SafeSwap IPs, freemium model | Limited advanced features | 1,000+ | 42 | WireGuard | Data breach alerts, SafeBrowse | Yes | Partial | USA | |
| #9: Mullvad VPN | | $$ | Maximum anonymity, no account needed | Not great for streaming, small network | 800+ | 40+ | WireGuard, OpenVPN | Anonymous sign-up, bridge mode | Partial | No | Sweden |
| #10: TunnelBear | | $ | User-friendly, playful design, frequent audits | Low free data limit, basic configuration | Unknown | 47+ | OpenVPN | VigilantBear, GhostBear | Partial | Yes | Canada |
