In today’s digital world, protecting your online privacy is more important than ever. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) helps you browse securely, unblock restricted content, and keep your data private while streaming, gaming, or traveling. With so many providers available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That’s why we’ve rounded up the best VPN services for 2025. We based it on privacy, speed, usability, and value.
🥇 1. ExpressVPN – Best Overall VPN
Why we recommend it: ExpressVPN continues to lead the market in 2025. With apps across all major platforms, fast servers, and a strong privacy track record, it’s ideal for both beginners and advanced users.
– Speed loss: ~18% (still excellent for HD streaming and gaming)
– Servers: 3,000+ in 105 countries
– Jurisdiction: British Virgin Islands (privacy-friendly)
– Pros: Excellent for Netflix, Disney+, and sports streaming, strong privacy, audited no-logs policy, simple user-friendly apps
– Cons: Expensive compared to rivals
Pricing: $13/month | $98 for 2 years
⚡ 2. NordVPN – Fastest VPN for 2025
Why we recommend it: If speed is your priority, NordVPN is the winner. It’s extremely fast, making it perfect for streaming, downloading, or online gaming.
– Speed loss: ~3% (fastest in our 2025 tests)
– Servers: 7,400+ in 118 countries
– Jurisdiction: Panama
– Pros: Blazing-fast speeds, advanced security features (Double VPN, Threat Protection). It is great for streaming.
– Cons: Renewal pricing can be steep
Pricing: $13/month | $83 for 2 years (renews at $140/year)
💎 3. Surfshark – Best Value VPN
Why we recommend it: Surfshark offers unlimited connections on one plan. This makes it the most budget-friendly choice for families or users with many devices.
– Speed loss: ~21%
– Servers: 3,200+ in 100 countries
– Jurisdiction: Netherlands
– Pros: Affordable long-term pricing, unlimited connections, security features like MultiHop
– Cons: Not as transparent as ExpressVPN or NordVPN
Pricing: $15.45/month | $60 for 27 months
🔒 4. Proton VPN – Most Versatile VPN
Why we recommend it: Known for its strong focus on privacy, Proton VPN is backed by the same team behind ProtonMail. It’s also the only reliable free VPN option we recommend.
– Speed loss: ~16%
– Servers: 12,000+ in 117 countries
– Jurisdiction: Switzerland
– Pros: Free plan available, open-source and audited, strong privacy features (obfuscation, split tunneling)
– Cons: No 24/7 live support
Pricing: $10/month | $108 for 2 years
🛡️ 5. Mullvad VPN – Best for Privacy
Why we recommend it: Mullvad takes privacy to the next level by not requiring any personal details to sign up. You don’t even need an email address.
– Speed loss: ~24%
– Servers: 700+ in 49 countries
– Jurisdiction: Sweden
– Pros: Flat pricing €5/month (~$6), pay anonymously with cash or crypto, open-source apps
– Cons: Smaller server network
Pricing: $6/month (simple flat pricing)
✅ Factors to Consider Before Choosing a VPN
When picking the best VPN for your needs, here are the key factors to compare:
– Speed: Look for <25% internet speed loss
– Privacy: Audited no-logs policy, kill switch, leak protection
– Servers: More countries = better streaming. Travel access is also improved.
– Devices: Works on Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, routers, etc.
– Cost: Watch out for renewal price hikes
📌 Final Thoughts
Each of these VPNs has its strengths:
– ExpressVPN – Best overall
– NordVPN – Fastest
– Surfshark – Best value
– Proton VPN – Most versatile (with free option)
– Mullvad – Most private
👉 Whether you’re streaming, securing sensitive work data, or protecting your privacy while traveling, one of these VPNs will suit your needs in 2025.