The 10 Best VPN Services in 2024: Tested Top Picks

A VPN is a crucial security tool to keep you safe when using the internet. It masks your IP address and encrypts your data to maintain your online privacy and security.

It is important to note that a VPN typically adds a bit of load to your network and slows your internet speeds. That is because it must encrypt and route your data through secure servers. However, the VPN services on this list offer fast speeds with a barely noticeable impact on your connectivity.

Continue reading to find the best VPNs for 2024, why you need to use the VPN, features to consider when choosing a VPN, and more.

Quick summary of the best VPN services of 2024

VPN NAME	WHAT MAKES IT SO AMAZING?
	NordVPN Best VPN overall for almost all activities. It offers lightning-fast speeds, watertight security features, and unblocks all major streaming sites. Try it
	PrivateInternetAccess Unblocks Netflix, 30-day money-back guarantee, WireGuard protocol, ten simultaneous connections. Try it
	TotalVPN Secure VPN protocols, AES 256-bit encryption, DNS leak protection, kill switch, and no-logs policy. Try it
	ExpressVPN Offers budget-friendly long-term plans, a zero logs policy, unlimited bandwidth and data, and a SmartPlay feature. Try it
	Surfshark Best cheap VPN with an unlimited simultaneous connections, SmartDNS feature, CleanWeb ad blocker, and camouflage mode. Try it
	ExtremeVPN A privacy-focused VPN with a strict no-logs policy, ten simultaneous connections at single subscription, and 30-day no-question-asked money-back guarantee. Try it
	Proton VPN A Swiss-based secure VPN with full-disk encrypted servers and strict no-logs policy, offers 10 simultaneous connections, NetShield feature, and a free VPN version. Try it
	CyberGhost Expansive server network, beginner-friendly, 7 simultaneous connections, P2P optimized servers. Try it
	PureVPN Unblocks almost all streaming services, automatic kill switch, NAT Firewall, apps for all devices, and affordable add-ons. Try it
	TunnelBear Well-designed apps, unblocks geo-restricted content, 24/7 customer support, allows P2P connections. Try it

What is a VPN, and how does it function?

A virtual private network (VPN) is a privacy tool that provides a safe and secure way to connect to the internet. You can use it to access geo-blocked content, protect your data and browsing activities, and more.

VPNs were initially designed to connect business networks over the Internet. But nowadays, they are popular with the general public as more people become conscious of their online security and privacy.

But how does a VPN work? We hear you ask.

Well, a VPN routes your traffic through a private server operated by the provider. So, when using the internet, your data will originate from the VPN server instead of your device. Essentially, a VPN is an intermediary between the internet and your computer. It helps hide your IP address and location, thereby protecting your identity.

Why do you need a VPN?

There are many reasons why you should get a VPN. Here are a few benefits of using a VPN service.

Protection

As long as your device is internet-enabled, you are at risk of cyberattacks. Hence, a VPN comes in handy to protect your privacy by encrypting the data leaving your device. It creates a secure VPN tunnel that prevents your ISP, hackers, and other third parties from seeing your online activities.

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Unblock streaming services

Due to copyright and licensing issues, many streaming services enforce geo-blocks to restrict their content. As a result, the catalog of movies and TV shows you can watch depends on your location. Hence, some countries, such as the US, Canada, and the UK, have more content than other regions.

A VPN helps you get past the geo-restrictions and access your favorite media anywhere. For this, it gives you a new IP address, tricking the streaming site that you are within the permitted country, thereby unblocking your desired content.

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Evade censorship

In some countries, Internet Service Providers (ISPs) block certain websites. For example, China uses the Great Firewall to restrict many foreign services like Google, YouTube, Skype, etc.

A VPN will help you evade censorship and access whichever content you want, regardless of your country of residence.

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Torrenting safety

When torrenting without a VPN, other users can see your IP address. Besides, your ISP can throttle your internet speed if it finds you torrenting. A VPN will mask your internet activities from your ISP and other snoopers, allowing you to torrent safely and privately.

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Top 10 best VPNs in the market – The detailed list

Here, we list the top 2024 VPN reviews based on our in-depth research and vigorous testing.

1. NordVPN

NordVPN is one of the best VPN services on the market, and it has affordable plans. The 2-year plan comes with a 68% discount plus three months for free. Luckily, you can try the service risk-free with the 30-day money-back guarantee for as low as $12.99 per month.

In addition, the SmartPlay feature is designed to unblock all geo-restrictions while keeping you safe. We tested over 100 servers and unblocked all major streaming sites, including Netflix, ESPN, and Amazon Prime Video, making it the best VPN for streaming.

Does NordVPN support torrenting? Its P2P-optimized servers provide unlimited bandwidth and data, letting you torrent even large files.

Furthermore, NordVPN maintains your security with AES 256-bit encryption, perfect forward secrecy, SHA-384 authentication, and a 2048-bit DH key. Hence, with these VPN solutions, no one can intercept your traffic or steal your data.

The provider observes a valid no-logs policy and doesn’t keep any identifiable information. Also, it is based in Panama — a privacy-friendly country that isn’t part of the 5/9/14 Eyes alliance.

Besides, comparing other VPN services like ExpressVPN vs. NordVPN gives the latter an edge—thanks to its Onion over VPN and Double VPN feature, which makes NordVPN compatible with the Tor network.

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2. Private Internet Access (PIA)

Private Internet Access (PIA) is a well-known brand due to its reliability and dedication to privacy. It has a user-friendly interface and supports up to 10 devices at once.

The provider has recently undertaken an enormous expansion drive to amass over twenty thousand servers worldwide. It is more than the combination of NordVPN, ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Surfshark VPN. Notably, a massive server network is better for speeds as there is less congestion.

PIA is a great VPN for security and privacy. It employs AES encryption, DNS/IPv6 leak protection, IP masking, and OpenVPN protocol, contributing to better user privacy.

The only downside with this service is that it is based in the United States — a 5-Eyes country. Nonetheless, it employs a strict no-logs policy to protect the users. The VPN costs $11.59 per month and offers a 30-day money-back period.

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3. TotalVPN

TotalVPN is another top VPN contender on our list. The VPN app is an integrated version of the TotalAV security package and offers TotalAV Antivirus and TotalAV Adblock at an affordable price.

TotalVPN has 50 servers distributed across 30 countries. While it has fewer servers compared to other more prominent services like NordVPN, its servers are fast and offer reliable performance that can meet the needs of users. With this VPN, you can access a wide range of international content and services without worrying about VPN bans.

The VPN provider offers different simultaneous connections based on different subscription plans. It has strong DNS leak protection, and its apps are also easy to install. The VPN provider supports all major platforms, so you can protect all your devices simultaneously.

Moreover, TotalVPN is a reliable VPN option to unblock Netflix US and other services such as DAZN, ESPN, and HBO Go. It guarantees to offer consistent connections and the best streaming quality.

Since TotalVPN isn’t an independent service, you need to subscribe to TotalAV to use it. TotalAV has four subscription plans – Total AV Free, TotalAV Antivirus Pro, TotalAV Internet Security, and TotalAV Total Security. Total AV Free is entirely free, and TotalAV Antivirus Pro costs $29.00/year, yet neither of these offers a VPN service.

TotalAV Internet Security and TotalAV Total Security include VPN in their packages, along with other amazing features like a password manager, adblocker, and up to 8 simultaneous connections. These plans cost $39.00/year and $49.00/year, respectively.

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4. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is a well-known provider in the market. It has stood out from the rest by offering user-friendly apps, a vast and secure network, and unique features.

With over 3,000 servers spread across 160 locations in 94 countries, it lets you access content and services anywhere. Its Smart Location feature will connect you to an optimal server in one click.

The VPN has impressive unblocking capabilities and bypasses geo-restrictions of popular streaming services. Also, it is one of the fastest VPNs we’ve tested. Since the servers are super-fast, you will stream content in ultra HD on Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and more. It is also a reliable option to unblock popular sites often blocked in workplaces and schools, such as YouTube, Facebook, and Google.

Likewise, ExpressVPN seamlessly handles resource-heavy games like the League of Legends. So, you can keep up with your teammates because it offers reliable and consistent speeds. The VPN offers three subscription plans: a one-month plan at $12.95, a six-month plan at $9.99 per month, and a 12-month plan discounted to $8.33 per month.

ExpressVPN uses advanced security and privacy features to keep you safe online. These include AES 256-bit encryption, 4096-bit RSA key, SHA-512 HMAC authentication, and perfect forward secrecy. The VPN also has secure VPN protocols like OpenVPN, iKEv2, and IPSec.

In addition, ExpressVPN supports P2P sharing across its entire server network. Because it offers unlimited bandwidth and data, you can torrent as much as you want without restrictions. Fortunately, it works well with uTorrent, BitTorrent, and other P2P clients.

Also, ExpressVPN provides an automatic kill switch (Network Lock) and robust DNS/IPv6 leak protection for complete anonymity.

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5. Surfshark

Surfshark has been in the VPN industry for a while but is already competing with established services. It is a user-friendly VPN with top-of-the-range features and unbeatable value for money.

It boasts a network of 3,200+ servers in 65 countries. Consequently, this vast network ensures less server congestion and improved speed and performance. You also get more connecting options if one of your existing connections gets blocked.

You can also use the VPN to access geo-blocked streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, HBO Go, BBC iPlayer, etc. It has high-speed servers, so you will continuously stream in high definition even if you connect to an international server. In addition, you can use the CleanWeb feature to eliminate pesky ads, block trackers, and malware.

Moreover, it keeps you safe and secure with several high-end security features. They include DNS/IPv6 leak protection, AES 256-bit encryption, automatic kill switch, MultiHop (double VPN), and HackLock.

Also, Surfshark offers “Camouflage Mode” that hides your VPN as well as browsing activities, thus facilitating users in repressive countries. In addition, its NoBorders Mode automatically detects heavily censored regions and presents you with special servers to use. Users can enjoy the benefits of this VPN service for $15.45 per month.

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6. ExtremeVPN

ExtremeVPN is a great choice among VPNs if you value simplicity. It has decent global server coverage and unblocking capabilities and offers fast speeds. Those new to VPNs will love its security features and intuitive design.

The VPN app is compatible with all major devices, including macOS, Android, Windows, and iOS. Recently, it also added support for Android TV and routers. Although it only allows you to connect five simultaneous devices, you can install it on your router to add more connections.

Does ExtremeVPN unblock Netflix? That’s something every potential VPN user would ask before subscribing to it. Fortunately, this VPN easily bypasses geo-restrictions of all the major services, including Netflix USA, the UK, and other extensive libraries.

Besides unblocking geo-blocked content, ExtremeVPN supports torrenting. You will seamlessly download and share torrent files with unlimited bandwidth and fast-speed servers. The service only charges $10.59 per month for all these amazing features.

ExtremeVPN offers a 7-day free trial. Moreover, it provides a 30-day money-back guarantee to let you try risk-free. The VPN has responsive customer support that is available 24/7.

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7. Proton VPN

Proton VPN is a service that ranks among the best free VPNs owing to its outstanding performance and free plan. In addition, it is one of those few VPN providers that take extra care of data security.

At first, they set up a highly secure infrastructure with carefully installed data centers that were not easily accessible. Then, having its headquarters in Switzerland, the provider also enjoys the liberty to implement a strict no-logs policy for its customers. Moreover, Proton VPN additionally employs full disk encryption on its servers to prevent man-in-the-middle (MiTM) attacks.

Regarding performance, the VPN works fast enough to handle most bandwidth-intensive activities like streaming or gaming. It also deploys a VPN accelerator feature to further enhance connectivity.

Coupled with its vast server network spread across 60+ countries, this VPN is among the best options for streaming your favorite media from any restricted library.

Besides, what makes it unique is its freemium model. You can use it at no cost by creating a free account without sharing your personal information. Yet, you might get limited features in this case, with support for just one device and only three servers to connect.

Nonetheless, you can always choose to upgrade your VPN subscription, which costs around $10.86 per month. Furthermore, you can even test the tool without stress, as Proton VPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

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8. CyberGhost

CyberGhost is another formidable VPN we recommend using in 2024. It has a fair mix of ease of use, reliability, security, and affordability.5

The VPN gets around geo-blocks of the most popular streaming platforms such as Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, etc. Specifically, it has numerous streaming-optimized servers for a smooth experience. But unfortunately, you cannot use it to access Amazon Prime Videos.

It operates over 8,000 servers in 90+ countries, giving you plenty of options to unblock international content. In addition, the Best Server Location feature lets you connect to the fastest VPN server based on your speed, distance, and latency. You can get this all and more for $12.99 per month.

Besides, CyberGhost offers all the essential features you need to stay safe online. For instance, the AES 256-bit military-grade encryption ensures your data and traffic remains protected from third parties. Likewise, its automatic kill switch breaks your traffic if the VPN connection is interrupted.

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9. PureVPN

PureVPN is a reputable VPN provider with plenty of features you will need in a VPN app. Notably, it offers high-quality services as it independently manages and runs its entire network.

The VPN has over 6500 servers in 65 countries and over 300,000+ IP addresses. It means you will always find an alternative IP address even if one of your connections is blocked. The service costs $12.95 per month and offers a money-back guarantee as well.

Also, most of its servers are plenty fast to support smooth streaming. We could unblock multiple services during our review, including Sling TV, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu, using PureVPN.

Another notable feature is its advanced VPN protocols. These offer extra VPN protection and additional muscle to bypass even the toughest geo-restrictions.

The provider ensures your data and activities are secure with AES 256-bit encryption. There is also a NAT Firewall to block malware and an automatic kill switch to prevent leakage.

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10. TunnelBear

If you want a VPN offering both both paid and free services, TunnelBear can be your top pick. However, its free version is limited to only 500MB of monthly data, which is enough to browse anonymously. Nonetheless, its paid subscription is also affordable if you take the 1-year and 3-year plans.

The service operates a relatively small server network in 49 countries. Nonetheless, the offered locations are from all major regions, such as Europe, North America, Japan, Mexico, Brazil, Singapore, and more.

The VPN is easy to use. It offers native apps for Android, iOS, Mac, and Windows. The provider also boasts Chrome, Firefox, and Opera browser extensions.

Moreover, the VPN allows you to connect up to 5 devices simultaneously. It means you can protect most of your devices on a single plan. Among all other VPN services, TunnelBear offers the most cheapest VPN plan, starting at $9.99 per month.

Notably, its GhostBear mode acts as the obfuscation feature to hide your VPN activities and make it look like regular traffic. It is helpful in countries with heavy censorship, like Russia, Turkey, and UAE.

Also, its VigilantBear mode is a kill switch that prevents encrypted data from leaving your network if the VPN connection drops.

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Features to consider when choosing a VPN

Here are some key factors to look for when choosing the best VPN for you:

Security

You must prioritize your security, mainly if you use a VPN to hide your IP and protect your data and browsing activities. Therefore, look for features in a VPN that will keep you safe and secure. Also, it’s better to read about the privacy policies of a VPN beforehand.

Some standard VPN security features include military-grade encryption, a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and split tunneling. The advanced ones include double VPN, malware threat protection, and Tor over VPN.

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Speed

Speed is another crucial aspect to consider when you’re using a VPN service. Although many variables affect your internet speed, you wouldn’t want a sluggish VPN.

Hence, it’s better to run a VPN speed test to check if your VPN affects the internet speed or not. If it does, you may consider switching to another VPN company.

Many VPN services have a feature enabling you to connect to the fastest server. Even better, some vendors offer multiple configurations for different purposes. It ensures you get consistent connections, whether streaming, torrenting, or gaming.

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Accessibility

Some VPNs are only available in certain regions. So, to access geo-blocked content, you should look for the VPN’s availability by country. A high-quality VPN will ensure you can connect to servers in different parts of the world.

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Ease of use

A VPN that is hard to use is not worth your time. Hence, don’t compromise usability when finding the best VPN services.

Since the VPN technology is complicated, the provider should make the interface intuitive.

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Compatibility

The right VPN should support a wide range of operating systems and platforms. Although, most paid VPN services offer between 5 and 10 simultaneous connections. Still, some, like Surfshark, can connect as many devices as you want.

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P2P connections

Many ISPs discourage peer-to-peer (P2P) sharing when you connect to a VPN. But, although P2P is a grey area, it is handy in several ways.

So, look for a VPN that supports P2P connections and does not throttle torrent traffic.

Popular use cases for a VPN

Creating a specified list of activities where a VPN use can help you is difficult. The above section explains how and where a VPN would serve you. But if you’re still confused about whether using a VPN would solve the online problem troubling you, then take a look below. Perhaps, you may likely find your particular use cases listed here. If yes, then rest assured that using a VPN is all you need to settle the issue.

• Preventing hacking attempts that target your IP address.
• Evade government surveillance and ISP tracking via your IP address.
• Access streaming content from other countries’ libraries (such as watching US Netflix in the UK or elsewhere).
• Accessing local news from any country from outside the specified region. (For example, you can stay in touch about your local state news even when you’re abroad on vacation.)
• Torrent files without worrying about ISP tracking or accessibility issues.
• Using separate private and public networks simultaneously. (You need a VPN with split tunneling here.)
• Avoiding targeted ads and cookie tracking.

FAQs