Top 10 VPN Services

10 ranked on capability, adoption, value, momentum and trust, with a plain verdict on every entry.

LISTER SCORE · UPDATED REGULARLY

ExpressVPN and NordVPN stand out as the top choices for most users, offering exceptional speeds, robust security features, and reliable global server networks. ExpressVPN suits users prioritising seamless streaming and ease of use, while NordVPN is ideal for those seeking advanced security tools and excellent value for money.

RANKENTRYSCORETRENDFROM

ExpressVPNExpressVPN operates its entire network on volatile RAM-only servers, meaning no data can ever be written to a hard drive.95.0NEW$6.67 per month

NordVPNNordVPN developed its own custom NordLynx protocol based on WireGuard technology to maximise speeds without compromising security.92.7NEW$3.09 per month

SurfsharkSurfshark allows users to connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously under a single subscription.90.3NEW$2.19 per month

ProtonVPNProtonVPN is based in Switzerland, which is known for having some of the strictest privacy laws in the world.88.0NEWFree / $4.99 per month

CyberGhostCyberGhost publishes a regular transparency report detailing requests for user data that they receive and reject.85.7NEW$2.19 per month

Private Internet AccessPIA's no-logs policy has been verified multiple times in genuine US court subpoena cases.83.3NEW$2.03 per month

Mullvad VPNMullvad charges a flat monthly rate of five euros regardless of whether you pay for one month or ten years.81.0NEW€5.00 per month

IPVanishIPVanish owns and operates all of its physical servers rather than renting them from third parties.78.7NEW$2.19 per month

Atlas VPNAtlas VPN features a SafeSwap server capability that rotates your IP address while keeping you connected to the internet.76.3NEWFree / $1.83 per month

PrivateVPNPrivateVPN acts as its own hosting provider and buys capacity directly from IP transit providers.74.0NEW$2.00 per month

LAST UPDATED 2026-07-20CURATED · UPDATED REGULARLY

The ranking, in detail

ExpressVPN

The leader in speed and privacy

A premium VPN service renowned for its lightning-fast connection speeds, user-friendly applications, and robust unblocking capabilities across global streaming platforms.

From $6.67 per monthBest for Streaming and overall ease of use

95.0

NordVPN

Advanced security made simple

A feature-packed security powerhouse that combines top-tier encryption with specialised servers for torrenting, double encryption, and onion over VPN.

From $3.09 per monthBest for Advanced security features

92.7

Surfshark

Secure your digital life for less

An affordable yet powerful VPN provider offering unlimited simultaneous device connections and a comprehensive suite of privacy tools.

From $2.19 per monthBest for Large households and budget-conscious users

90.3

ProtonVPN

Privacy by design

A privacy-focused VPN created by the scientists behind ProtonMail, offering open-source apps and strong Swiss jurisdiction.

From Free / $4.99 per monthBest for Privacy purists and journalists

88.0

CyberGhost

Fully featured digital privacy

A user-friendly VPN featuring dedicated streaming and torrenting servers, alongside one of the largest server networks in the industry.

From $2.19 per monthBest for Beginners and dedicated streaming

85.7

Private Internet Access

Transparent, ironclad privacy

A veteran VPN provider with a proven court-tested no-logs record, highly customisable settings, and a massive global server footprint.

From $2.03 per monthBest for Advanced customisation and torrenting

83.3

Mullvad VPN

Keep your online privacy private

A privacy-centric VPN that requires no email address to sign up, relying instead on a randomly generated account number.

From €5.00 per monthBest for Anonymous registration

81.0

IPVanish

Your shield against digital surveillance

A fast and secure VPN owned by Ziff Davis, offering unlimited device connections and top-tier speeds for media consumption.

From $2.19 per monthBest for Kodi users and media streamers

78.7

Atlas VPN

Fast, secure, and accessible VPN

A lightweight and budget-friendly VPN acquired by Nord Security, offering good speeds and a freemium model.

From Free / $1.83 per monthBest for Casual users on a tight budget

76.3

PrivateVPN

The truly private VPN service

A boutique Swedish VPN provider focused on high-speed connections, strong encryption, and dedicated customer support.

From $2.00 per monthBest for Bypassing stubborn censorship and geo-blocks

74.0

Frequently asked questions

What does a VPN actually do?

A virtual private network encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through a secure remote server operated by the provider. This hides your real IP address, shields your browsing activity from your internet service provider, and makes it appear as though you are browsing from a different geographic location.

Can I use a free VPN safely?

While some reputable providers like ProtonVPN offer safe free tiers with bandwidth limits, many entirely free VPNs monetize your data by logging and selling your browsing history to third-party advertisers. For robust security and privacy, a paid subscription from a trusted provider is always recommended.

Does a VPN slow down my internet connection?

Yes, using a VPN can cause a minor reduction in internet speeds because your data must travel further to reach the remote server and undergo encryption processes. However, premium VPNs using fast protocols like WireGuard or NordLynx minimise this impact so that the slowdown is barely noticeable during daily use.

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Top 10 VPN Services

The ranking, in detail

Frequently asked questions

What does a VPN actually do?

Can I use a free VPN safely?

Does a VPN slow down my internet connection?

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