Best Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) Of May 2025

All you need to know to find the best VPN for your online privacy needs.

Last Updated 05-1-2025

BEST OVERALL

4.47

METASCORE help

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BEST FOR TELECOMMUTING

4.37

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BEST FOR MULTI-DEVICES

4.24

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A virtual private network (VPN) provides an extra layer of privacy, can keep your data safe from prying eyes, can block certain types of content, can unlocks geo-restricted content and most importantly, can provide a secure connection for transferring sensitive information.

A VPN works by sending your web traffic through an encrypted tunnel to a server controlled by the VPN company. From there, your traffic exits onto the web as normal. Using a VPN disguises the user’s IP address and country location to anonymize web usage and allows its users to bypass geo-blocking and internet censorship. VPNs are also effective against man-in-the-middle and rogue wi-fi attacks and should be included as part of an overall strategy to protect the users online identify and activity.

In short, VPNs are a must have tool for anyone who routinely use unsecure wi-fi networks (such as coffee-shops, hotels, restaurants and airports) and to help you chose the best provider, we aggregated all the most reputable reviews on the web and narrowed down your choices to the top 3 VPNs according to the most up-to-date market consensus.

Compare the Best VPNs

NordVPN

ExpressVPN

Surfshark

Metascore:

4.47 star

4.37 star

4.24 star

Lowest Monthly Price:

$3.99

$8.32

$2.49

Highest Monthly Price:

$11.99

$12.95

Encryption:

AES-256

Simultaneous Connections:

Unlimited

Server Count:

5,200+

3,000+

3,200+

24/7 Support:

check

Dedicated IP Address:

check

Full Review:

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Best Overall: NordVPN

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4.47

METASCORE help

The Metascore is the average score distilled from dozens of reviews from the most reputable news source, which most accurately represents the market consensus.

NordVPN is a secure VPN service based in a privacy friendly location—Panama. This VPN service is known for its excellence in complete privacy, advanced security, and internet freedom. NordVPN does not keep any logs, and given its territory, the laws of the land do not require it to do so. It has the largest VPN server network—5,500 servers in 59 countries around the globe.

PROS

Double-hop VPN servers
One of the cheapest plans around
6 simultaneous connections

CONS

Some servers aren't as fast as others
No live chat

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Best Features: ExpressVPN

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4.37

METASCORE help

The Metascore is the average score distilled from dozens of reviews from the most reputable news source, which most accurately represents the market consensus.

ExpressVPN is a frequently-heard name around VPN circles. With the built-in speed test, you can choose the fastest servers around, and since ExpressVPN has more than 3,000 spread over 94 countries, there’s plenty to choose from. ExpressVPN offers 24/7 live chat support, a huge benefit when your VPN goes down, or you need help fast. Plus, you can select to run only partial device traffic through the VPN with the split tunneling feature.

PROS

Trusted name in the industry
30-day money-back guarantee
Easy-to-use app

CONS

More expensive than other services

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Best Comprehensive Protection: Surfshark

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4.24

METASCORE help

The Metascore is the average score distilled from dozens of reviews from the most reputable news source, which most accurately represents the market consensus.

Surfshark VPN is relatively new and has earned its place among the elite services. Located in the British Virgin Islands, Surfshark enjoys the perks of a territory with no data retention laws and favorable data protection laws that ensure user information is safe. Furthermore, it has a strict no-logs policy, and no identifying information about users is collected.

PROS

Whitelister, multihop, and camouflage mode
Least expensive plan (2 year contract)

CONS

No free trial

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Frequently asked questions

Do I need a VPN?

Anyone who accesses the internet from a computer, tablet or smartphone can benefit from using a VPN because it encrypts communications between the VPN server and your device. So your internet service provider, government entity, network administrator or anyone else spying on you won't know which websites you access. They also won't be able to see private information like passwords, usernames and bank or shopping details. Anyone who wants to improve their privacy and security online should use a VPN.

How Much Does a VPN Cost?

The overall cost of a VPN will depend on what service package you get and any add-ons you choose. NordVPN, for example, costs $59.88 per year and supports up to 6 devices being used at once.

What can I access with a VPN?

VPNs can allow you to access geo-restricted content in other countries. Many customers use them to access international content on streaming services that are not available in their home country. They can also be used to bypass any government restrictions you may have in your region.

Can You Trust VPN Providers?

VPNs are used by millions of people all over the world. The vast majority of users are able to browse the web anonymously and without issue. However, there have been times in which VPN providers have been compromised and had their customers’ information stolen. It is also worth noting that, depending on the provider’s country of origin, the VPN might be beholden to government surveillance programs.

Are VPNs illegal?

VPNs are legal in most countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom and Canada. Certain countries, such as China and Russia, have laws against using a VPN to bypass banned websites. Regardless of the country you’re in, doing anything illegal while you’re connected to a VPN is still illegal.