In today’s online world, privacy is starting to feel like a luxury. Every app wants your data, every website tracks something, and public Wi-Fi can sometimes feel like an open window into your personal life. That’s where VPNs come in.
What Is A VPN?
A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, works like a secure tunnel between your device and the internet. Instead of connecting directly, your traffic gets routed through a private server, which hides your real location and encrypts everything you do. It is like travelling the internet in stealth mode.
One of the biggest perks of a VPN is privacy. Your internet service provider can’t easily see what you’re browsing, hackers on open Wi-Fi can’t grab your data, and websites can’t track your real IP address.
Then there’s the entertainment factor. VPNs let you access content that might be blocked or limited in your region. People also use VPNs while travelling to avoid restrictions on certain apps or websites. It keeps you connected to the internet the way you’re used to, no matter where you are.
Of course, a VPN isn’t a superhero gadget. It won’t make you invincible, and it can’t protect you from everything online. As a daily habit, it adds a nice layer of security and freedom to your browsing.
What The Experts Say
CNET’s Top Picks
According to CNET’s latest tests, the best VPNs are the ones that offer strong privacy without sacrificing speed. They test each service thoroughly across multiple devices to check reliability, streaming support, features, and overall performance. Their updated 2025 results show:
- ExpressVPN – Best overall
- NordVPN – The fastest VPN
- Surfshark – Best value
- Proton VPN – Most versatile
- Mullvad – Best privacy-focused VPN
PCMag’s Top Tested VPNs
PCMag also conducted extensive testing and put together a list of its top performers for 2025. Their results focus on feature quality, user experience, pricing, and technical reliability. Their best picks include:
- Proton VPN – Best overall
- NordVPN – Best premium features
- ExpressVPN – Best for location spoofing
- TunnelBear – Best for beginners
- Surfshark – Best for multi-device protection
- CyberGhost – Best for Smart TVs
- IPVanish – Best for households with many devices
- Mullvad – Best for public Wi-Fi security
- Windscribe – Best browser extensions
Top10VPN.com Rankings
Top10VPN tested 61 VPN services and selected the top 10 based on performance, privacy, streaming ability, and value:
- ExpressVPN – Best overall
- NordVPN – Runner-up
- Private Internet Access (PIA) – Best cheap VPN
- Surfshark – Budget-friendly with free extras
- IPVanish – Best for Fire TV Stick
- Proton VPN – Best safe free VPN
- CyberGhost – Best free trial
- PrivateVPN – Best for beginners
- Hide.me – Great for bypassing firewalls
- Windscribe – Unblocks the most Netflix regions
The Best VPNs Of 2025
- ExpressVPN – Best Overall
ExpressVPN continues to dominate because of its balance of speed, security, and smooth performance. It has servers in many countries, works well for streaming, and keeps a strict no-logs policy. For everyday users who just want something fast and easy, it remains a top choice.
- NordVPN – Fastest Speeds
NordVPN is known for its impressive speed and security tools. Its unique features like double VPN and threat protection make it especially popular among power users. For gamers, streamers, and people who download large files, NordVPN’s speed advantage is a major plus.
- Surfshark – Best Value for Money
Surfshark stands out because it offers unlimited device connections on a single plan. That means your phone, laptop, tablet, smart TV, and even family members’ devices can all use the same subscription. It’s affordable, reliable, and packed with features like CleanWeb ad-blocking.
- Proton VPN – Versatility Champion
Proton VPN is built by the creators of Proton Mail, known for their focus on privacy. It offers strong security, an excellent free plan, and advanced features. Its transparent policies and strong reputation make it ideal for privacy-conscious users.
- Mullvad – Best for Hardcore Privacy
Mullvad is the favourite for people who insist on complete anonymity. It doesn’t even require an email address to sign up; you get a random account number instead. The service is simple, straightforward, and extremely privacy-focused.
- CyberGhost – Great for Streaming and Smart TVs
CyberGhost offers dedicated streaming servers designed for platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and more. Its simple interface makes it beginner-friendly, and it’s a strong choice for people who use VPNs mainly for entertainment.
- IPVanish – Ideal for Households and Fire TV Users
IPVanish has strong performance on Amazon Fire TV Stick and allows unlimited device connections. This makes it perfect for families or shared households.
- Private Internet Access (PIA) – Best Budget Pick
PIA offers good speeds, customisable settings, and strong privacy at one of the lowest prices. It is extremely popular among long-term VPN users who want full control over their configurations.
- TunnelBear – Best for Beginners
TunnelBear has a friendly, colourful design that makes VPNs less intimidating. It’s perfect for people who are new to VPNs and just want a simple, worry-free experience.
- Windscribe – Best for Browsers and Streaming Regions
Windscribe’s browser extension is one of the best, and it’s surprisingly good at unlocking multiple Netflix regions. Its free plan is also generous compared to others.
Which VPN Should You Choose?
The “best” VPN depends on your needs:
- For overall performance – ExpressVPN
- For fastest speeds – NordVPN
- For saving money – Surfshark or PIA
- For strict privacy – Mullvad
- For streaming – CyberGhost or Windscribe
- For free users – Proton VPN