5 Best VPNs for the USA in 2025

The United States may be known as the “land of the free,” but online freedom tells a different story. Between government surveillance, ISP tracking, and the country’s role in the Five Eyes Alliance, your privacy is far from guaranteed. On top of that, many streaming platforms, gambling sites, and sporting events are restricted or blocked within the US.

If you live in the US and travel abroad, you’ll also lose access to your favorite American content due to geo-blocks. Thankfully, a reliable VPN for the USA solves these issues by encrypting your data, hiding your browsing activity, and letting you bypass restrictions with ease. Here’s why you need a VPN for the USA:

✅ Protect Your Identity & Privacy
✅ Unblock US & Global Streaming Platforms
✅ Access Restricted Gambling & Sports Betting Sites
✅ Bypass Sports Blackouts
✅ Safely Torrent Without Tracking
✅ Avoid ISP Bandwidth Throttling
✅ Block Ads & Online Trackers

In this article, we'll discuss choosing the best VPN for the USA and share our top 5 picks. We'll also show you how to get a VPN for the US, talk about whether it's legal to use one, tell you how to resolve common technical issues, and much more.

Are VPNs Legal in the USA?

Yes, VPNs are legal in the United States. There are absolutely no legal restrictions that would restrict your use of a VPN service in any way.

However, a VPN is not an excuse to engage in illegal activity. In other words, a VPN can hide your activities even from your Internet provider. Still, don't make a mistake thinking that a VPN gives you the right to do anything you wouldn't do otherwise.

You can find more information in our guide that answers the question, is a VPN legal? That's where you'll learn in-depth about the legality of using a VPN for privacy protection, media streaming, and more.

Can You Get In Trouble for Using a VPN in the USA?

No, you can't get in trouble for using a VPN in the United States. No matter if you get access to the Internet from AT&T, Comcast, T-Mobile, Verizon, Charter, or some other ISP, you won't face any issues if you start using a VPN.

Of course, as explained in the previous segment, stay on the legal side of things - even if you hide behind the best VPN for the USA. The VPNs in this guide are so powerful that it's impossible for third parties to get to your data. However, there's no need to push your luck.

The Best VPNs for the USA in 2025

Which VPN is best for staying private and unrestricted in the United States? With so many options, the key is to find one that offers strong security, reliable performance, and servers across all 50 states. A good US VPN should not only keep your identity safe but also unblock restricted websites and streaming platforms at home and abroad.

Here are the must-have features to look for in a USA VPN:

✅ Servers in all 50 states and worldwide for maximum access
✅ Fast, stable speeds for streaming, gaming, and browsing without lag
✅ Obfuscation and a kill switch to keep your VPN use hidden and secure
✅ Strong encryption (AES-256/ChaCha20) and modern protocols (WireGuard, OpenVPN)
✅ Strict no-logs policy to guarantee your privacy
✅ Wide device support and multiple simultaneous connections
✅ Fair pricing, money-back guarantee, and 24/7 support

With these standards in mind, VPNs that combine top-tier privacy with streaming and speed performance stand out. Based on these criteria, here are the 5 best VPNs for the USA in 2025:

• ExpressVPN – Our #1-Rated Best VPN for the USA with Servers in All 50 States• Servers in 105+ countries including multiple US cities • Proprietary Lightway protocol for ultra-fast connections • TrustedServer tech & Smart DNS for secure, flexible streaming
• NordVPN – Best USA VPN with Specialized Servers • 7,400+ servers worldwide, including dozens across the US • Specialty servers (Double VPN, Onion over VPN, obfuscated) for extra privacy • NordLynx protocol for speed and reliability
• Proton VPN – Privacy-Focused VPN with Free US Servers • Secure Core servers for advanced protection against surveillance • Free plan with US server access • Open-source apps with AES-256 and WireGuard encryption
• Surfshark – Best Plug-and-Play United States VPN • 3,200+ servers in 100 countries including all major US hubs • Unlimited device connections with one plan • NoBorders mode & CleanWeb ad blocker for a smooth experience
• Private Internet Access – US VPN with Servers in All 50 States • Complete US coverage plus servers in 90+ countries • Fully customizable with split tunneling & port forwarding • Unlimited connections & independently audited no-logs policy

1. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is the best VPN for the USA as it features undisclosed number of servers in 105 countries and an army of ultra-capable servers across all locations in the US. This VPN can bypass even the most complex geo-blocks to access US-based sites (like Netflix US, Hulu, Disney+, and Max) and non-US websites.

Based on our hands-on tests, ExpressVPN is the fastest VPN available today. No matter if you connect to nearby or remote servers, ExpressVPN's performance will always be fast and stable without any interruptions. It's equally capable for media streaming, torrenting, and even gaming.

ExpressVPN has RAM-only obfuscated servers and a no-logs policy (independently audited many times). Let's not forget that you get OpenVPN, Lightway, and IKEv2 paired with AES-256 and ChaCha20/Poly1305, a kill switch, and support for up to 8 simultaneous connections.

There are apps available for all major devices, including smartphones, computers, and tablets. It can even be set up on routers so devices like gaming consoles and media players that don't have native apps can run traffic through the VPN.

Lastly, this US VPN comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. You also get 24/7 live chat support, making sure all your questions are answered without you having to wait. Pricing starts at $4.99 per month for 24 months, which makes it a premium but worthwhile choice.

2. NordVPN

NordVPN is one of the most capable VPNs for the USA, especially if you care about privacy. It operates 7,400+ servers in 118 countries, with close to 2,000 servers spread across 16 US locations. This setup makes it easy to unblock popular streaming services like Netflix US, Disney+, Hulu, and Max no matter where you are.

Thanks to its vast network, NordVPN excels at website and streaming unblocking. You’ll have plenty of US and international IPs to choose from, ensuring reliable access to global platforms.

A standout feature of NordVPN is its double-hop servers, which encrypt your data twice for maximum privacy. On top of that, it’s an audited no-logs VPN powered by modern protocols like NordLynx, NordWhisper, IKEv2/IPsec, and OpenVPN and industry-standard AES-256-GCM and ChaCha20 .

NordVPN also offers specialized servers, including obfuscated ones that hide your VPN usage, making it easier to bypass tougher restrictions. A built-in kill switch prevents accidental leaks, ensuring your data stays secure at all times.

When it comes to performance, NordVPN isn’t quite as fast as ExpressVPN, but it delivers medium-fast speeds that are stable enough for streaming, gaming, torrenting, and everyday browsing. Unless you’re connecting to very remote servers, performance should feel smooth and consistent.

You can connect up to 10 simultaneous connections devices simultaneously, covering everything from phones and laptops to smart TVs, consoles, and routers. Plus, NordVPN offers 24/7 live chat support, a 30-day money-back guarantee, and flexible plans starting at just $3.09 per month per 24 months.

3. Proton VPN

Proton VPN is a security-first VPN service with a strong US presence. It operates 9,600+ servers in 117 countries, including hundreds across key American cities. With this reach, it reliably unblocks streaming platforms like Netflix US, Hulu, Disney+, and Prime Video while keeping your privacy intact.

One of Proton VPN’s standout features is its Secure Core servers, which route your traffic through hardened data centers in privacy-friendly countries before exiting onto the internet. This makes it much harder for surveillance agencies or attackers to trace your activity. In terms of speed, Proton VPN isn’t the fastest option overall, but with WireGuard support it delivers smooth HD streaming on a solid internet connection.

For privacy and security, Proton VPN offers AES-256 and ChaCha20, modern WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2, and Stealth, an automatic kill switch, and a strict no-logs policy that has been independently audited. Its apps are also open-source, giving you transparency and confidence in its security.

You can connect up to 10 simultaneous connections devices at the same time, and the VPN works seamlessly across Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. Extra features like NetShield (ad, malware, and tracker blocking) add more value. Proton VPN also provides a 30-day money-back guarantee and a competitive $3.59 per month at a subscription length of 24 months.

4. Surfshark

Surfshark is a highly capable USA VPN service with plenty of servers spread across 25 US cities. In total, it has 3,200+ servers in 100 countries, which makes it excellent for unblocking sites and services both inside and outside the US, including Max, Hulu, Disney+, and Netflix US.

When it comes to speed, Surfshark is ultra-fast, ranking just behind ExpressVPN in performance tests. Its connections are stable and reliable, making it a great choice for streaming, online gaming, torrenting, or casual browsing.

On the security side, Surfshark offers WireGuard, IKEv2, and OpenVPN, AES-256-GCM and ChaCha20, and follows an audited no-logs policy. It also comes with obfuscated servers that run in a special mode, designed to bypass even the strictest online censorship.

In addition, Surfshark includes its CleanWeb feature, which blocks intrusive ads, malware, and phishing attempts for a safer, smoother browsing experience.

One of Surfshark’s standout advantages is support for unlimited simultaneous connections, allowing you to protect your phone, computer, smart TV, game console, and router all at once. Rounding things out, you get a 30-day money-back guarantee, 24/7 live chat support, and flexible plans starting at $2.19 per month for 24 months.

5. Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access (PIA) is a true US VPN service, as it's headquartered in the country. It has undisclosed number of servers in 91 countries and covers all 50 US states. So, you won't get any random US IP address. You'll get to pick an IP from a specific state or city, including New Jersey, California, New York, Chicago, or Los Angeles.

PIA’s global network makes it easy to unblock websites inside and outside the country, including US-based platforms like Hulu, Disney+, Netflix US, and Max. When it comes to security and privacy, PIA supports WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IPsec (IKEv2) with AES-128-GCM, AES-256-GCM, AES-128-CBC, AES-256-CBC, and ChaCha20, all backed by a strict no-logs policy.

For bypassing restrictions, PIA includes built-in Shadowsocks obfuscation, plus two types of kill switches that ensure your connection never leaks. These features make it especially effective for unblocking streaming services and other geo-restricted websites.

One standout feature is its high level of customization. You can fine-tune encryption strength, adjust VPN protocols, or tweak kill switch settings to optimize your VPN experience. Even without customization, PIA delivers consistent, reliable speeds across its network.

This VPN works on virtually all devices, including phones, tablets, computers, routers, and even game consoles. Plus, with unlimited simultaneous connections, you can connect every device you own under one plan.

Finally, PIA offers 30-day money-back guarantee, with plans starting at $2.19 per month for a 24 months subscription. Like any top-tier VPN, it also provides 24/7 live chat support for quick assistance.

How to Get a USA VPN

To get a US VPN, you must subscribe and then download your chosen VPN for America. Here’s exactly what you need to do:

1. Pick a reliable VPN for the USA. Choose one with servers in all 50 states, strong privacy features, obfuscation, and a risk-free money-back guarantee (we recommend ExpressVPN).
2. Install the VPN on your devices. Apps are available for computers, smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, routers, and even browser extensions. Configure split tunneling if you want only specific apps to run through the VPN.
3. Activate security essentials. Turn on the Kill Switch, DNS/IP leak protection, and ad/tracker blocking. These features keep your activity private and prevent unwanted interruptions.
4. Connect to a server. Pick a US server to stay connected to local websites and services, or switch to an overseas server to unblock geo-restricted platforms.
5. Browse, stream, and torrent securely. With your VPN on, you’ll stay private, avoid ISP throttling, and access content freely.

Websites That Are Blocked in the United States

The United States rarely blocks websites explicitly. However, websites can be blocked in the US due to commercial restrictions and copyright infringement, for example. Here's more info:

• Commercial Geo-Based Restrictions – Due to licensing agreements, many sites don't operate in the US and impose geo-based blocks willingly. Those sites (such as BBC iPlayer, ITV X, or Hotstar) are not blocked or banned explicitly; they don't have the required legal framework to operate in the US.
• Restrictions in Schools – Many schools in the US block access to sites related to gaming, social networking, and pornography. Also, chat apps and forum sites are often blocked.
• Restrictions on Pornographic Sites – In Louisiana, access to porn websites (affecting PornHub at the moment) is possible only after you verify your driver's license.
• File Upload Services (Intellectual Property Protection) – Napster, WikiLeaks, The Pirate Bay (and many other P2P repositories), and MegaUpload were banned at some point in the past due to copyright infringement.

VPN Not Working in the US - How to Fix?

If your VPN is not working in the US, you can do a lot to troubleshoot it. Here are some quick and actionable tips on what to do:

Issue	Fix	Why It Helps
❌Temporary glitches	✅Restart your device & VPN app	Clears cached data and resets background processes that may interfere with VPN connections.
❌Overloaded VPN servers	✅Switch to another server (ideally in a different US state or nearby country)	Servers under heavy load slow down or drop connections; switching gets you a fresh, stable route.
❌Protocol compatibility	✅Change VPN protocol (WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2, or Lightway depending on provider)	Some networks block specific protocols; switching ensures your VPN traffic looks different and bypasses filters.
❌Outdated or corrupted apps	✅Update or reinstall your VPN software	Updates include bug fixes and better anti-blocking tech. A reinstall resets corrupted settings and restores performance.
❌Network-level issues	✅Restart your modem/router	Refreshes your internet connection, clears old routing tables, and may resolve ISP-related throttling or DNS leaks.

Can You Use a Free VPN in the USA?

Yes, you can use a free VPN in the USA - but that's actually a very bad idea. That's because free VPN services are severely limited, they are very slow, and they can endanger your privacy. How? Let's simplify it for you!

❌ Most free VPNs log and sell your data
❌ Limited servers and very slow speeds
❌ Bandwidth limitations that restrict usage
❌ Poor quality infrastructure leading to frequent disconnections
❌ Weak security features and poor encryption
❌ High risk of malware infection
❌ Many are scams disguised as real VPNs
❌ Lack of customer support and updates
❌ Your privacy is more likely to be endangered than protected

To top everything off, your device could get infected with malware. Most free VPNs on Apple's and Google's app stores are scams. They're designed to extract your data, often maliciously.

Your goal is to protect your data and privacy - not to put yourself in danger. And the only way to get everything you want is to use a premium USA VPN. So, pick any of the recommendations we listed above, or expand your options using our guide to the best VPN service.

Final Thoughts

As a Five Eyes member, the United States is a world leader in digital surveillance and data logging. Moreover, there are considerable geo-restrictions that control content availability in the US. A VPN is your best solution for accessing the Web privately and removing any digital roadblocks.

We recommend ExpressVPN as the best VPN for the USA because it’s incredibly fast, reliable, and secure. With a strict no-logs policy and steadfast commitment to user privacy, you'll be safe from any snooping. You can safely browse, torrent, or access as much geo-restricted content as you’d like.

For those seeking specialized US servers, NordVPN stands out with 7,400+ servers worldwide and advanced options like Double VPN and Onion over VPN. Proton VPN offers a privacy-first approach with Secure Core protection. Surfshark is perfect for a plug-and-play experience, featuring 3,200+ servers, unlimited device connections, and helpful tools like NoBorders mode and an ad blocker. Finally, Private Internet Access provides full coverage across all 50 US states with customizable features, unlimited connections, and a proven no-logs policy.

Some guides for your reference:

• Fastest VPNs in the USA – Optimized servers for speed-intensive activities like gaming and 4K streaming.
• VPNs for Torrenting in the USA – Safe and anonymous P2P file sharing options.
• VPNs to Bypass Geo-Restrictions for Gaming – Access US servers and reduce lag while gaming abroad.
• VPN vs Smart DNS: Best Option for US Streaming – Explaining which is better for speed, access, and privacy.
• Best Free VPN Trials – Discover VPNs that let you test premium features risk-free before committing.
• Best VPNs for Streaming – Unblock Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and more with fast, reliable servers.
• Best VPNs for Online Gambling – Access US-friendly betting sites securely from anywhere in the world.
• Best VPNs for Crypto Trading – Protect your transactions and data with high-security VPN options.

That wraps up our guide to choosing the top VPN for the USA. If you have any questions or remarks, leave them in the comment section below. Thanks for reading!