The best VPNs should stay fast, work with the sites and apps you use, and protect your connection without making you troubleshoot every session. I tested 40+ VPN services across streaming, gaming, torrenting, browsing, restrictive networks, and everyday app use. We also checked their privacy policies, audits, server networks, device support, and customer service.
These five gave us the most consistent results:
- ExpressVPN: Best overall for reliable performance and simple apps.
- NordVPN: Best for advanced security tools and specialty servers.
- Private Internet Access: Best for customization and torrenting.
- CyberGhost: Best for beginners and task-specific servers.
- Surfshark: Best for protecting unlimited devices.
The best VPNs compared
| VPN | Best for | Server network | Device limit | Money-back guarantee |
| ExpressVPN | Reliable all-around performance | 3,000+ servers in 105 countries | 10 to 14 | 30 days |
| NordVPN | Security tools and specialty servers | 9,532 servers in 149 countries | 10 | 30 days |
| Private Internet Access | Customization and torrenting | 29,650 servers in 50 countries | Unlimited | 30 days |
| CyberGhost | Beginners and streaming | 11,690 servers in 100 countries | 7 | Up to 45 days |
| Surfshark | Unlimited devices | 4,500 servers in 100 countries | Unlimited | 30 days |
1. ExpressVPN: Best overall VPN
ExpressVPN is the VPN I’d recommend first to most people because it rarely makes you work for a stable connection. Its apps are simple, servers connect quickly, and features such as obfuscation and leak protection run without requiring separate server categories or manual setup.
During our tests, ExpressVPN connected in under one second and reconnected automatically when we moved between Ethernet and Wi-Fi. Nearby servers reduced our download speed by only 11% from a 254 Mbps base connection. That left more than enough bandwidth for UHD streaming, large downloads, multiplayer games, and video calls.
Its Lightway protocol is a major reason for that consistency. Lightway is ExpressVPN’s own VPN protocol, which encrypts and sends your traffic using a smaller codebase than OpenVPN. It establishes connections quickly and can move between Wi-Fi and mobile data without rebuilding the entire VPN session.
Lightway Turbo can split traffic across several VPN tunnels to improve speed and latency further, although it’s currently limited to Windows. On other devices, standard Lightway still gives you fast connections without needing to adjust advanced settings.
Streaming
ExpressVPN worked with every major streaming service we tested, including Netflix, Disney+, Max, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and Prime Video.
We rarely needed to switch servers, and streams loaded without additional buffering. If you watch several different services, this saves you from repeatedly searching for a location that works.
Automatic obfuscation can also help on networks that try to identify and block VPN traffic. You don’t need to select a special obfuscated server. ExpressVPN applies it when the app detects a restriction.
Security and privacy
ExpressVPN uses TrustedServer technology, which runs its server software in random-access memory rather than writing it to a hard drive. RAM loses its contents when a server restarts, so previous session data can’t remain stored indefinitely.
Its apps also include:
- Network Lock: Stops internet traffic if the VPN disconnects.
- Private DNS: Keeps website lookup requests inside the encrypted tunnel.
- Leak protection: Helps prevent your real Internet Protocol address, DNS requests, and Web Real-Time Communication data from escaping the connection.
- Advanced Protection: Blocks selected ads, trackers, malicious domains, and adult sites.
I ran leak tests on several ExpressVPN servers and didn’t find any IP, DNS, or WebRTC leaks.
ExpressVPN’s no-logs policy has also undergone independent audits, and its British Virgin Islands headquarters places it outside the 5, 9, and 14 Eyes intelligence-sharing groups.
Apps and devices
ExpressVPN has apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, and routers. It also provides browser extensions and MediaStreamer for devices that can’t install a full VPN app.
The interface looks similar across platforms, so you won’t need to relearn the app each time you switch devices.
Depending on your plan, you can connect 10, 12, or 14 devices at once. A router installation counts as one connection while protecting every device using that network.
What could be better
ExpressVPN gives you fewer manual controls than Private Internet Access. You can change protocols and some security options, but you won’t find the same level of control over ports, encryption settings, or packet size.
Its shorter plans are also expensive. The longer subscription offers much better value if you’re comfortable paying upfront.
Best for
- People who want a VPN that works without much configuration.
- Streaming across several services.
- Fast connections over long distances.
- Travel and restrictive networks.
- Routers and devices without native VPN support.
Not ideal for
- Anyone choosing only by price.
- People who want unlimited app connections.
- Advanced users who want extensive network controls.
ExpressVPN includes a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can test its speeds and streaming compatibility on your own connection before keeping it.
2. NordVPN: Best for advanced security tools
NordVPN is a better choice if you want more than a straightforward VPN connection. Its apps include specialty servers, malware scanning, ad and tracker blocking, breach monitoring, and private links between your own devices.
Instead of changing several settings manually, you can choose a server category based on what you’re doing:
- P2P servers: Built for torrenting.
- Obfuscated servers: Make VPN traffic harder for restrictive networks to identify.
- Double VPN: Sends traffic through two VPN servers.
- Onion over VPN: Routes the connection into the Tor network after it passes through NordVPN.
This makes NordVPN more versatile than ExpressVPN, although the app has more menus and can take longer to open.
Speed
NordLynx, NordVPN’s WireGuard-based protocol, performed well across both nearby and distant servers.
US connections reduced our speeds by an average of 26%. Japanese servers, despite being much farther away, recorded an average 25% reduction. Both results left enough bandwidth for HD or UHD streaming, large downloads, and normal browsing.
Double VPN was slower because it sends traffic through two locations and encrypts it twice. You should only use it when the added routing matters more than speed.
The app also took up to 20 seconds to open during some tests. Once connected, however, the VPN remained stable.
Torrenting
NordVPN provides dedicated P2P servers rather than allowing torrenting everywhere.
We connected to a P2P server in Spain and downloaded the 1.07 GB public-domain film Abilene Town in two and a half minutes. That’s fast enough that the VPN shouldn’t add much time to ordinary downloads.
NordVPN can also move you to a compatible P2P server automatically if it detects torrenting traffic on another location.
It doesn’t support port forwarding. That may limit the number of peers your torrent client can reach directly, although many people won’t notice a meaningful difference.
Threat Protection Pro
Threat Protection Pro blocks malicious websites, trackers, and intrusive ads. It can also scan downloaded files for malware before they open on your device.
This goes further than the domain blockers included with many VPNs. It’s useful if you regularly download files or want an extra layer alongside your existing antivirus software.
You also get Dark Web Monitor, which checks whether your email address appears in known leaked databases.
Meshnet
Meshnet creates encrypted links between your devices. You can use it to:
- Access your home computer remotely.
- Transfer files without uploading them to a public cloud.
- Create private gaming sessions.
- Route traffic through another device you control.
Most people won’t need Meshnet every day, but it’s one of NordVPN’s more distinctive features.
Security and privacy
NordVPN uses RAM-only servers, so data stored in temporary memory is cleared when a server restarts. It has also moved much of its network to colocated servers that it owns and operates directly.
Its no-logs policy has undergone six independent assessments. NordVPN is based in Panama, outside the 5, 9, and 14 Eyes alliances.
The apps include a kill switch, private DNS, and IP, DNS, and WebRTC leak protection. We tested 12 servers and didn’t find any leaks.
What could be better
NordVPN’s apps can feel busier than ExpressVPN’s, and some connections take longer to establish. Its introductory price also increases when the first subscription term ends.
Access in China and other highly restrictive countries is inconsistent. Obfuscated servers may help, but support confirmed that connections aren’t guaranteed.
Best for
- People who want security tools beyond the VPN tunnel.
- Torrenting through dedicated P2P servers.
- Malware and download scanning.
- Double VPN or Tor connections.
- Private file sharing and remote access through Meshnet.
Not ideal for
- Anyone who wants the simplest possible app.
- Frequent Double VPN use where speed is a priority.
- Travelers who need dependable access in China.
- People who want low renewal prices.
NordVPN includes a 30-day money-back guarantee. Check the renewal price before subscribing, since the first-term discount only applies once.
3. Private Internet Access: Best for customization
Private Internet Access (PIA) gives you more control than the other VPNs on this list. You can use it with the default settings, but the app also lets you adjust how the connection sends and encrypts traffic.
You can switch between WireGuard and OpenVPN, change encryption strength, select ports, adjust packet size, configure DNS, and create automation rules.
That makes PIA a strong choice if you know what you want to change. It can feel crowded if you’d rather press one button and leave everything else alone.
Speed and protocol controls
PIA recorded a 21% speed reduction on nearby servers using WireGuard. The connection remained fast enough for HD streaming, online gaming, video calls, and large downloads.
With OpenVPN, you can choose:
- 128-bit encryption: Uses less processing power and may improve speed.
- 256-bit encryption: Uses a larger encryption key for stronger protection.
You can also lower the Maximum Transmission Unit, or MTU. The MTU determines how much data each network packet can carry. Smaller packets may improve stability on connections that struggle with packet loss or fragmentation.
Most people won’t need to change these settings. They’re useful when you’re troubleshooting a difficult network or trying to squeeze more performance from a particular setup.
Torrenting and port forwarding
PIA allows torrenting across its network and supports port forwarding in selected locations.
Port forwarding opens a direct incoming route to your torrent client, which can help it connect to more peers. That may improve speeds when a torrent has limited availability or when your normal connection receives few incoming connections.
PIA also offers a kill switch and an advanced kill switch. The standard version blocks traffic when an active VPN connection drops. The advanced version can prevent internet access until you connect to PIA.
Streaming
PIA provides streaming-optimized locations in countries including the US, UK, Australia, and Germany.
These servers worked with Peacock, ITVX, 9Now, ARD, and other platforms during our tests. They’re organized by country rather than by streaming service, so you need to know which region you want.
That’s less intuitive than CyberGhost’s platform-labeled servers, but it gives you more location choices.
MACE and automation
MACE blocks ads, trackers, and domains associated with malware at the DNS level. It removed ads and pop-ups from heavy news pages during our tests.
PIA also lets you create automation rules. For example, you can make the VPN:
- Connect when you join public Wi-Fi.
- Disconnect on a trusted home network.
- Launch when you open a torrent client.
- Use different settings for different networks.
These rules reduce the chance that you’ll forget to connect before starting a sensitive task.
Device support
PIA has apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, smart TVs, browsers, and routers. One subscription allows unlimited simultaneous connections.
That makes it useful for large households or anyone with several computers, phones, televisions, and tablets.
What could be better
PIA’s interface can feel overwhelming at first. The default settings work well, but the number of controls may make the app look more complicated than it needs to.
Its server network covers fewer countries than the other VPNs here, despite having the highest total server count.
Best for
- People who want control over protocols and encryption.
- Torrenting with port forwarding.
- Automating VPN behavior.
- Protecting unlimited devices.
- Troubleshooting unusual or unstable networks.
Not ideal for
- Beginners who want a minimal interface.
- Anyone who prefers streaming servers labeled by platform.
- People who need the widest country coverage.
PIA includes a 30-day money-back guarantee, giving you time to test the default setup before deciding whether its extra controls are useful to you.
4. CyberGhost: Best for beginners
CyberGhost makes server selection easier by grouping locations for streaming, gaming, and torrenting. You don’t need to compare protocols or guess which general server will work best for a specific platform.
Its apps also include Smart Rules, which can connect the VPN automatically when you open an app, start your device, or join an unsecured Wi-Fi network.
That combination makes CyberGhost a good choice if you want more guidance than ExpressVPN provides but don’t want PIA’s advanced network controls.
Streaming servers
CyberGhost labels many streaming servers by platform. Instead of choosing a country and testing several locations, you can select the server listed for Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, or another supported service.
The streaming servers worked with Netflix, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer during our tests.
Platform access can still change as streaming companies update their VPN detection. The labels simply give you a clearer starting point and reduce unnecessary server switching.
Gaming servers
CyberGhost also offers gaming-optimized servers that display ping before you connect.
During our tests, Fortnite ping remained below 40 ms on a nearby gaming server. That’s low enough for responsive gameplay without obvious delays between your controls and the action on screen.
These servers are most useful when you’re near one of the supported locations. Distance will still increase latency.
Smart Rules
Smart Rules lets you decide when CyberGhost should connect automatically.
You can create rules that:
- Start the VPN when your device turns on.
- Connect when you join public Wi-Fi.
- Open a specific server when you launch a streaming app.
- Protect a torrent client as soon as it starts.
This means you don’t have to remember to open the VPN manually before each task.
Security tools
CyberGhost’s Content Block feature filters selected ads, trackers, and malicious domains.
It also offers an optional security suite with antivirus protection. Privacy Guard can change certain operating-system privacy settings from within the CyberGhost app.
These extras are less extensive than NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro, but they’re easier to manage if you already use CyberGhost for the VPN connection.
What could be better
CyberGhost’s long-distance speeds were less consistent than its nearby results. It also isn’t a dependable option for China or other networks with aggressive VPN blocking.
The monthly subscription is expensive and includes a shorter refund period. Longer purchases come with a 45-day money-back guarantee, which is more generous than the other services here.
Best for
- Beginners who want clear server categories.
- Streaming without manually testing many locations.
- Automatic connections for particular apps and networks.
- People who want more than 30 days to test the service.
Not ideal for
- Travelers who need a VPN for China.
- People who mainly use distant servers.
- Anyone paying month to month.
- Advanced users who want detailed protocol controls.
5. Surfshark: Best for unlimited devices
Surfshark is the most practical choice if you need to protect a large number of devices. It doesn’t limit simultaneous connections, so you can install it across your household without deciding which phones, laptops, or televisions stay connected.
We connected nine PCs and laptops to the same server while streaming Disney+ in HD. Speeds fell from 272 Mbps to 194 Mbps, but we didn’t notice buffering or a meaningful slowdown.
That means the VPN itself shouldn’t become the bottleneck in a busy home, provided your base internet connection is fast enough.
Streaming and everyday performance
Surfshark worked with major streaming services during our checks and retained enough speed for HD and UHD playback.
Its network covers 100 countries, so most people should find a nearby location. The app also includes Quick Connect when you don’t want to choose manually.
Torrenting is supported, but P2P-compatible servers aren’t labeled as clearly as PIA’s or NordVPN’s options. The VPN can move your connection when it detects torrenting, although the process isn’t always obvious.
Rotating and static IP addresses
Surfshark includes two useful IP options:
- Rotating IP: Changes your VPN address periodically without disconnecting the tunnel.
- Static IP: Gives you the same shared IP address whenever you select that location.
A rotating IP can make it harder to connect several browsing sessions to the same VPN address. A static IP can reduce CAPTCHAs and repeated security checks on services that flag frequent IP changes.
Static IPs are shared with other Surfshark customers. They’re different from a dedicated IP, which belongs only to you.
Dynamic MultiHop
Dynamic MultiHop sends your traffic through two VPN locations, and you can choose both the entry and exit server.
This gives you more control than a fixed Double VPN route. The extra server will increase latency and reduce speed, so it’s better reserved for situations where the additional routing matters.
Privacy
Surfshark is based in the Netherlands, a member of the 9 Eyes intelligence-sharing group. That may concern you if jurisdiction is a deciding factor.
However, Deloitte assessed Surfshark’s no-logs policy in 2023. The review supported its claim that it doesn’t store browsing history, IP addresses, session information, or connection timestamps.
The apps also include a kill switch, private DNS, leak protection, obfuscation, and ad and tracker blocking.
What could be better
Surfshark’s torrenting setup isn’t as clear as PIA’s or NordVPN’s. It also struggles on restrictive networks such as China.
Its Netherlands jurisdiction may be another drawback if you prefer a VPN based outside intelligence-sharing alliances.
Best for
- Large households with many devices.
- Families that don’t want to track connection limits.
- People who want rotating or static IP options.
- Anyone looking for a lower-priced long-term plan.
Not ideal for
- People who want the clearest torrenting setup.
- Travelers who need dependable access in China.
- Anyone who wants a VPN based outside the 5, 9, and 14 Eyes alliances.
Surfshark includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Which VPN should you choose?
ExpressVPN is the safest all-around choice. It stayed fast, worked with every major streaming platform we tested, and required the least troubleshooting. Choose it when you value reliability and simple apps more than advanced controls or the lowest price.
NordVPN is better when you’ll use tools such as malware scanning, Meshnet, Double VPN, or specialty servers. It offers more features than ExpressVPN, but the app is busier and renewal prices are higher.
PIA makes the most sense for torrenting and customization. You can change protocols, encryption, ports, and packet size, and it supports unlimited devices.
CyberGhost is easier for beginners because its servers are grouped by task. Surfshark is the better value for a large household because it has no connection limit.
| Choose this VPN | When you want |
| ExpressVPN | The most reliable overall experience |
| NordVPN | The broadest selection of security tools |
| Private Internet Access | More control and port forwarding |
| CyberGhost | Simple streaming and automatic rules |
| Surfshark | Unlimited connections at a lower price |
How we tested these VPNs
My team and I compared more than 50 VPNs across the areas that affect everyday use.
Speed and stability
We measured nearby and long-distance connections, then checked whether each VPN remained stable during streaming, downloads, gaming, and longer browsing sessions.
A fast result wasn’t enough on its own. We also looked for delayed connections, sudden drops, and large variations between servers.
Streaming
We tested each VPN with major platforms such as Netflix, Disney+, Max, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Prime Video.
We paid attention to how often we had to change servers, how quickly videos loaded, and whether quality dropped after playback began.
Security
We checked kill switches, encryption, protocols, private DNS, split tunneling, obfuscation, and leak protection.
We also ran IP, DNS, and WebRTC leak tests on multiple servers where applicable.
Privacy
We read each provider’s privacy policy and checked what information it collects. We also reviewed no-logs audits, security assessments, company ownership, jurisdiction, and previous incidents.
An audit wasn’t treated as permanent proof. We used it as one signal alongside the service’s technical setup and history.
Torrenting
We checked whether P2P traffic worked across the full network or only on selected servers. We also tested download performance and looked for features such as port forwarding and SOCKS5 proxies.
Apps and device support
We compared setup, navigation, feature availability, and consistency across desktop, mobile, television, browser, and router platforms.
A VPN ranked higher when its main protections were available on several operating systems rather than limited to one app.
Customer support
We contacted support with basic and technical questions. We checked response times, answer quality, and whether agents could explain issues without repeatedly sending generic setup links.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best VPN in 2026?
ExpressVPN is the best overall VPN based on our tests. It combined fast connections, dependable streaming, simple apps, strong privacy evidence, and broad device support.
NordVPN is a close alternative if you want more security tools. PIA is better for customization and port forwarding, while Surfshark is better for unlimited devices.
Are VPNs legal?
VPNs are legal in most countries, but some governments restrict or regulate their use. What you do while connected still has to follow local laws and the terms of the service you access.
A VPN doesn’t make copyright infringement, fraud, or other illegal activity lawful.
Will a VPN slow down my internet?
A VPN usually reduces your speed because it encrypts traffic and sends it through another server. The size of the reduction depends on your base connection, protocol, server distance, congestion, and device.
The best VPNs keep the loss small on nearby servers. Distant locations usually have higher ping even when download speeds remain strong.
Can a VPN make me anonymous?
No. A VPN hides your public IP address and prevents your internet provider from seeing the contents of encrypted traffic, but it doesn’t stop every tracking method.
Websites can still identify you through logged-in accounts, cookies, browser fingerprinting, payment records, and information you submit directly.
Should I use a free VPN?
Most free VPNs impose limits on speed, data, locations, or streaming access. Some also rely on advertising or collect more usage data than paid providers.
A reputable free plan can be adequate for occasional browsing, but it usually won’t match a paid VPN for streaming, torrenting, server choice, or long sessions.
Which VPN is best for streaming?
ExpressVPN gave us the most reliable streaming results. It worked with every major platform we tested and rarely required a server change.
CyberGhost is easier when you want servers labeled for particular platforms. NordVPN also performed well across Netflix, Disney+, Max, BBC iPlayer, and other services.
Which VPN is best for torrenting?
PIA is the strongest option for torrenting because it allows P2P traffic, supports port forwarding in selected locations, and gives you detailed connection controls.
NordVPN is easier if you prefer dedicated P2P servers. ExpressVPN supports torrenting everywhere but only offers port forwarding through its router software.
Which VPN supports the most devices?
PIA and Surfshark both allow unlimited simultaneous connections.
ExpressVPN supports between 10 and 14 devices, depending on the plan. NordVPN allows 10, while CyberGhost allows seven.
Final verdict
ExpressVPN is our top VPN for 2026 because it delivered the most consistent experience across speed, streaming, privacy, apps, and support. You can install it, connect, and usually leave the default settings alone.
NordVPN is the better choice when you want extra security tools and specialty servers. PIA offers the most control, CyberGhost makes server selection easier, and Surfshark covers unlimited devices for a lower long-term price.
The right choice depends on which compromise matters least to you. ExpressVPN costs more and offers fewer manual settings. NordVPN renews at a higher price. PIA has a busier interface. CyberGhost is weaker over long distances, while Surfshark is less dependable on restrictive networks.
All five include a money-back guarantee, so you can test the service on your own connection before committing.