As we step into 2025, the landscape of virtual private networks (VPNs) has evolved significantly. With more options available than ever, finding the best VPN can be a daunting task. However, we’ve done the research and testing to bring you the top picks that stand out for their performance, security, and user-friendliness. Whether you’re looking to stream content, enhance your online privacy, or simply browse the web safely, these VPNs have got you covered. Let’s dive into our top recommendations for the best VPN in 2025.
Table of Contents
1. ExpressVPN
Okay, so ExpressVPN is consistently ranked as a top VPN, and there’s a good reason for that. It’s just really easy to use, no matter what device you’re on. I’ve used it on my laptop, my phone, even my smart TV, and the experience is always smooth. If you’re looking for the best VPN, ExpressVPN is definitely one of the most reliable picks out there.
The interface is clean, and it doesn’t take a tech genius to figure out how to connect to a server. That’s a big plus for me, because honestly, I don’t want to spend hours messing with settings. I just want to turn it on and go.
Here’s a quick rundown of why it’s a solid choice:
- Super user-friendly interface.
- Consistent experience across different devices.
- Fast connection speeds.
I think the best part is that it just works. No random crashes, no weird error messages, just reliable VPN service. And while it might be a bit pricier than some other options, I think the peace of mind is worth it.
2. NordVPN
NordVPN remains a strong contender in the VPN arena. It’s not quite the top dog, but it’s consistently a solid choice. I’ve been using it on and off for a few years now, and it’s always been reliable for basic stuff like secure browsing and accessing content from different regions.
One thing I appreciate is that NordVPN offers a good balance of features and ease of use. It’s not as dead-simple as some others, but it’s also not overwhelming with options. The interface is pretty intuitive, and I haven’t had any major issues figuring out how to use it.
Here’s a quick rundown of what I like:
- Good server selection: They have servers all over the place, which is great for getting decent speeds no matter where you are.
- Solid security: NordVPN has a good reputation for keeping your data safe, which is obviously important.
- Extra features: They throw in some extras like a password manager and encrypted cloud storage, which are nice to have.
I’ve found NordVPN to be a dependable option for everyday VPN use. It’s not the absolute cheapest, but the performance and features make it worth considering.
Of course, it’s not perfect. The price can be a bit steep, especially when it’s time to renew. And sometimes, the connection speeds can be a little inconsistent. But overall, NordVPN is a solid choice if you’re looking for a reliable and feature-rich VPN.
3. Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access (PIA) grabs the third spot in our 2025 VPN rankings. It’s a solid choice, especially if you’re after a VPN that’s easy to use and won’t break the bank. I’ve been testing it out, and while it does a lot of things right, there are a few areas where it could be better.
PIA really shines when it comes to privacy. They’ve got a strict no-logs policy, which is great if you’re concerned about your online activity being tracked. Plus, they offer a bunch of customization options, which is awesome if you’re a techie who likes to tweak things. For example, you can adjust the encryption level to balance speed and security. It’s this kind of flexibility that makes PIA stand out.
One thing I noticed is that PIA has a massive server network. This means you’ve got plenty of options when it comes to choosing a server location, which can help you get better speeds and bypass geo-restrictions. Speaking of speeds, PIA is generally pretty fast, but I did experience some slowdowns on certain servers. It wasn’t a deal-breaker, but it’s something to keep in mind.
PIA also has a kill switch, which is a must-have feature for any VPN. This prevents your data from being exposed if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly. PIA’s kill switch is particularly robust, offering an “advanced” option that blocks all traffic if the VPN isn’t active. This is a nice touch for those who want extra peace of mind. It’s great for anonymous torrenting.
PIA is a good all-around VPN that offers a lot of value for the price. It’s not perfect, but it’s a solid choice for anyone who’s looking for a reliable and affordable VPN. The customizable settings are a big plus, and the no-logs policy is reassuring.
Here’s a quick rundown of what I like and don’t like about PIA:
- Pros:
- Affordable price
- Strong privacy features
- Customizable settings
- Cons:
- Speeds can be inconsistent
- Interface can be a bit overwhelming for beginners
- Lacks some of the extra features offered by competitors
Overall, Private Internet Access is a solid VPN that’s worth considering. It’s not the fastest or the most feature-rich VPN on the market, but it offers a good balance of price, performance, and privacy. If you’re looking for an affordable no-logs VPN that you can customize to your liking, PIA is definitely worth checking out.
4. Proton VPN
Proton VPN is definitely one to watch in 2025. I’ve been using it on and off for a couple of years now, and it’s consistently solid. What I like most is their focus on security and privacy – it’s clear they take it seriously. They’re based in Switzerland, which is a plus in terms of data protection. Plus, they have a pretty decent free tier, which is rare these days. It’s not the fastest, but it’s reliable for basic browsing. The paid plans unlock a lot more, though, with faster speeds and more server locations. I’ve found their customer support to be pretty responsive too, which is always a good sign.
One thing that stands out is their commitment to open source. That means anyone can check their code to make sure there aren’t any hidden nasties. Transparency is key when you’re trusting a VPN with your data.
I appreciate that Proton VPN isn’t just about speed; it’s about building a secure and trustworthy service. It’s a VPN I feel comfortable recommending to friends and family who aren’t super tech-savvy but still want to protect their privacy online.
Here’s a quick rundown of what I think makes Proton VPN a strong contender for the best VPN in 2025:
- Strong focus on security and privacy
- Based in Switzerland
- Open-source code
- Good free tier
- Responsive customer support
If you’re looking for a VPN that prioritizes security and transparency, Proton VPN is worth checking out.
5. Surfshark
Surfshark has really made a name for itself as a solid VPN choice, especially if you’re trying to save some money. It’s not just about the price, though. Surfshark packs a punch with its features and performance.
I’ve been using Surfshark off and on for a couple of years now, and I’ve found it to be pretty reliable for everyday stuff like browsing and streaming. It’s definitely a user-friendly option, which is a big plus if you’re not super tech-savvy. The interface is clean, and it’s easy to find what you’re looking for. Plus, you can use it on unlimited devices, which is awesome if you have a big family or a ton of gadgets.
Here’s a quick rundown of what I like and don’t like about Surfshark:
- Affordable pricing, especially for long-term plans.
- User-friendly interface.
- Unlimited device connections.
- Good speeds for most activities.
- Decent security features.
One thing I’ve noticed is that Surfshark’s speeds can sometimes be a bit inconsistent, especially on servers that are far away. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it’s something to keep in mind if you need super-fast speeds all the time.
Surfshark offers a bunch of features that are pretty useful. The CleanWeb feature blocks ads and trackers, which is nice for a cleaner browsing experience. There’s also a kill switch, which cuts off your internet connection if the VPN drops, preventing your data from being exposed. And if you’re into streaming, Surfshark generally does a good job of unblocking popular services. For those seeking to protect online activities, Surfshark is a great option.
6. CyberGhost
CyberGhost is a solid VPN choice, especially if you’re new to the VPN world. It’s designed to be user-friendly, and honestly, it’s pretty easy to get the hang of. I remember when I first tried it; I was expecting a complicated setup, but it was surprisingly straightforward.
One of the best things about CyberGhost is its ability to unblock streaming services. It consistently works with Netflix, Disney+, and other popular platforms. Plus, their Smart DNS tool is seriously impressive. It unblocks content in multiple countries, which is a huge win if you’re traveling or just want to access different libraries.
However, it’s not all perfect. I’ve noticed that CyberGhost’s speeds can be a bit inconsistent, especially when connecting to servers far away. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it’s something to keep in mind if you need super-fast speeds for gaming or downloading large files. They also provide an excellent free vpn trial, so you can test it out before committing.
Overall, CyberGhost is a good all-around VPN that gets the basics right. It’s easy to use, unblocks streaming services effectively, and offers some useful features like dedicated IPs. While the speeds could be better, it’s still a solid choice for most users.
Here’s a quick rundown of what I like and don’t like about CyberGhost:
- Easy to use interface
- Effective at unblocking streaming services
- Dedicated IP option
- Inconsistent speeds on international servers
7. IPVanish
Okay, so IPVanish. It’s been around for a while, and people have pretty strong opinions about it. I’ve used it on and off, and honestly, it’s a solid choice if you know what you’re getting into. It’s not the flashiest, but it gets the job done. One of the things that stands out is that IPVanish owns all of its servers, which is a big plus for security.
- Good speeds for most activities
- Decent server network
- Okay price point
I think IPVanish is a good option for people who want a no-frills VPN that just works. It’s not perfect, but it’s reliable and has a good track record. Plus, the fact that they own their servers gives me a little extra peace of mind.
IPVanish has over 40,000 anonymous IP addresses, which is a lot. In our security tests, there were no IP or DNS address leaks using IPVanish VPN for Fire TV Stick. The app has a VPN kill switch, but it isn’t enabled by default.
8. TunnelBear
TunnelBear is a VPN that tries to stand out with its cute bear theme. It’s definitely memorable! But does it hold up as a top VPN in 2025? Let’s take a look. While it’s easy to use, especially for beginners, it might not have all the features that more advanced users are looking for. It’s like the friendly neighborhood bear – reliable, but maybe not the most powerful animal in the forest.
One thing that’s good about TunnelBear is its focus on security. They’ve got a clear no-logs policy and use strong encryption, which is always a plus. However, the server network is smaller compared to some of the bigger players, and its ability to bypass geo-restrictions can be hit or miss. So, if you’re looking to access content from all over the world, you might find it a bit limiting.
Here’s a quick rundown of what to consider:
- Easy to use interface
- Strong security and encryption
- Smaller server network
- Inconsistent geo-blocking performance
TunnelBear is a decent option if you’re new to VPNs and want something simple and secure. However, if you need advanced features or a larger server selection, you might want to explore other options. It’s a good starting point, but not necessarily the ultimate solution.
Ultimately, TunnelBear is a solid choice for basic VPN needs, especially if you appreciate a user-friendly design. Just be aware of its limitations before committing. It’s like choosing between a scooter and a motorcycle – both get you from point A to point B, but one offers a bit more power and flexibility. And when it comes to TunnelBear’s safety, it’s generally considered pretty good.
9. Windscribe
Windscribe is an interesting one. It’s got a pretty solid reputation, especially when you consider the free version. I mean, who doesn’t love free stuff, right? But let’s get into the nitty-gritty.
One of the coolest things about Windscribe is its commitment to privacy. They really seem to take it seriously, which is a big plus in my book. They also offer a decent amount of data per month if you sign up with an email address, which is way better than some other free VPNs out there. You can get up to 10GB, which is enough for some casual browsing and streaming. If you don’t want to use your email, you can still get 2GB with just a username. Not bad, right?
They also have servers in a bunch of countries, which means you can get around some geo-restrictions. Speaking of geo-restrictions, Windscribe Pro is known for being pretty good at bypassing those pesky streaming blocks. It works with a lot of popular content platforms, and it can even bypass internet filters in places like China. That’s pretty impressive for a free VPN.
Of course, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. The speeds can be a bit slow, especially if you’re connecting to servers far away. And the customer support? Well, let’s just say it’s not the best. But hey, you get what you pay for, right?
Overall, Windscribe is a solid choice, especially if you’re looking for a free VPN with a focus on privacy. It’s not perfect, but it’s definitely worth checking out.
Here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons:
- Pros:
- Good for unblocking streaming services
- Strong focus on privacy
- Decent amount of free data
- Cons:
- Slow speeds
- Inconsistent customer support
- Can be a bit buggy
So, yeah, that’s Windscribe in a nutshell. Give it a shot and see what you think!
10. VyprVPN and more
VyprVPN is another solid choice, especially if you’re concerned about security. They own and operate their servers, which gives them more control over your data’s journey. It’s not just VyprVPN though; the VPN landscape is constantly evolving, with new players and updates to existing services popping up all the time. Let’s take a closer look at what VyprVPN brings to the table, and touch on some other VPNs worth keeping an eye on.
VyprVPN has some cool features:
- Chameleon protocol: This helps bypass VPN blocks, which is useful if you’re in a country with heavy internet censorship.
- No-logs policy: They don’t keep records of your online activity, which is a big plus for privacy.
- Owned servers: As mentioned, this gives them more control and security.
Choosing a VPN can feel overwhelming, but it’s worth doing your research to find one that fits your needs. Think about what’s most important to you – speed, security, price, server locations – and read reviews to get a sense of what other users think.
Beyond VyprVPN, there are other VPNs to consider. Some focus on specific features, like Tor over VPN for extra anonymity, or double VPN for increased encryption. Others might offer specialized servers for streaming or gaming. It really depends on what you’re looking for. For example, VyprVPN prioritizes security with its owned servers.
Here’s a quick rundown of some other VPNs you might want to check out:
- Mullvad: Known for its strong focus on privacy and simple pricing.
- TorGuard: Offers a wide range of features and customization options.
- PrivateVPN: Good for streaming and bypassing geo-restrictions.
Ultimately, the best VPN for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Keep an eye on reviews and updates, as the VPN landscape is always changing!
Final Thoughts
In the end, picking the right VPN can really change your online experience. Whether you want to stream shows from other countries, keep your data safe, or just browse without being tracked, a good VPN can help with all that. Our top pick for 2025 stands out because it combines speed, security, and ease of use. But remember, what works best for you might depend on your specific needs. So take a moment to think about what you really want from a VPN. With the right choice, you can enjoy a safer and more open internet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a VPN?
A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, helps keep your internet connection private and secure by hiding your IP address and encrypting your data.
Why should I use a VPN?
Using a VPN can protect your online privacy, help you access blocked websites, and keep your data safe from hackers.
Are VPNs legal?
Yes, VPNs are legal in most countries. However, some places have restrictions on their use.
Can I use a VPN on my phone?
Yes, most VPNs have apps for smartphones, so you can use them on your phone just like on a computer.
Do VPNs slow down my internet speed?
Sometimes, using a VPN can slow down your internet speed because your data has to go through extra servers. However, many top VPNs work hard to keep speeds fast.
How do I choose the best VPN for me?
Consider what you need the VPN for, like streaming or privacy, your budget, and look for features like speed and security.
