15 Best VPN Services in 2023

It might seem like an impossible task to pick the single best VPN in 2023, as there are hundreds of options out there. On top of that, some VPNs seem adequate for specific purposes only (like streaming, torrenting, or gaming), while some are downright terrible and can even endanger your sensitive data; only a select few VPNs are truly stellar and worth your money.

That said, using a VPN service has become common because they have so many benefits. For example, a VPN protects your information and data online and prevents it from falling into the hands of hackers. A top VPN can also hide your online activity. Moreover, with a VPN, you can change your virtual location and unblock content from different countries worldwide.

To enjoy the previously mentioned benefits, you need to find the best premium VPN that offers a robust set of features and suits all your needs. That means you'll need to do your research in-depth, which is where our team comes into play.

In this article, we'll share our selection of the best VPN services in 2023 - based on our hands-on tests. We'll also show you how to get a VPN, explain more about VPN services in general, their legality, practical uses (using VPNs for streaming, torrenting, gaming, privacy protection, etc.), and plenty more.

Best VPN Services in 2023 - Our Shortlist

1. ExpressVPN – Our #1-Rated (All-In-One) VPN in 2023
2. NordVPN – Best VPN for High-End Privacy Protection
3. CyberGhost VPN – Best VPN to Use for Streaming
4. Surfshark VPN – Best VPN Software for Desktop & Mobile
5. IPVanish - Best VPN for Protecting Many Devices
6. Private Internet Access – Best for Experienced VPN Users
7. ProtonVPN - Best VPN to Use for Torrenting
8. Ivacy VPN – Best Budget-Friendly VPN
9. Hide.Me - Best VPN for Home Users
10. Windscribe - Best VPN with a Free Tier
11. VyprVPN - Best VPN to Use for Bypassing Censorship
12. PureVPN - Best VPN for Bargain Hunters
13. Hotspot Shield - Best VPN for Unblocking Websites
14. TunnelBear - Best Barebones VPN Service
15. HideMyAss (HMA) - Best International Server Selection

How to Get a Top Rated VPN

The process of getting a top-rated VPN is really simple if you have a trustworthy guide. You just need to subscribe to your chosen VPN and download and install its app, which is when you can start connecting to VPN servers. Here's what you need to do:

1. Subscribe to a top-rated VPN provider (we recommend ExpressVPN).
2. Download and install the VPN on your device(s).
3. Launch the VPN app and access your account by logging in.
4. Use the VPN's interface to pick and connect to a VPN server.
5. That's it! You can now resume your online activities.

The Best VPN Services to Use in 2023

Since the primary mission of any VPN is to protect your digital privacy, the best VPN service must offer stellar privacy and security features. That includes ultra-strong protocols such as OpenVPN and WireGuard, paired with AES-256 or ChaCha20 encryption. That goes hand-in-hand with a no-logs policy, ensuring your chosen VPN doesn't log any data.

Of course, you'll want access to a vast server network. So, pick a VPN with as many servers as possible in as many locations as possible. If you're after streaming, torrenting, or gaming, look for specialized servers for those online activities. On top of that, obfuscation should be present if you want to unblock censored or geo-blocked content.

That also means your chosen VPN must bring fast, fluid, and reliable performance. Let's not forget that the best VPN must have a high number of simultaneous connections and supported devices. And if privacy is your main concern, always go for a VPN with a kill switch and split tunneling - if you're a more advanced user. Full data leak protection must be there as well.

Lastly, top-rated VPNs have generous money-back policies (lasting from 30 to 45 days), giving you more than enough time to test-drive all its features. Regarding customer support, ensure you get 24/7 live chat support, in addition, to support tickets, installation guides, and similar.

Following the criteria explained above, we present the 15 best VPNs available at the moment:

1. ExpressVPN - Our #1-Rated (All-In-One) VPN in 2023

ExpressVPN sets the standard of how the best VPN in 2023 should look like. This ultra-capable VPN has an incredibly robust set of privacy/security features. It uses OpenVPN and Lightway to secure your data, coupled with AES-256 encryption and a no-logs policy. Lightway is something you won't find elsewhere, which is why ExpressVPN excels on all fronts.

With ExpressVPN, you gain access to 3,000+ servers in 90+ countries. All those servers are obfuscated by default. That's why ExpressVPN is hugely popular even in countries like China, where censorship and anti-VPN measures are widespread. Without any surprise, this VPN works great for unblocking any site or app out there, even if powerful anti-VPN systems are in place.

ExpressVPN works with Netflix, Hulu, Disney Plus, HBO Max, and practically any other streaming app from any country in the world. And when it comes to its speed, this is yet another side of this VPN that doesn't disappoint. You can count on fast performance even without any tinkering. In fact, our tests show that ExpressVPN is the fastest VPN on the global market.

With this VPN, you get 5 simultaneous connections, which seems generous enough. Aside from that, it works on any platform out there. That means you can set up ExpressVPN on computers (Windows, macOS, Linux), mobile devices (iOS, iPadOS, Android), streaming devices (Android TV, Fire TV), smart TVs, routers, and more.

Let's also not forget to mention ExpressVPN's unique features. This VPN offers an anti-tracking system called "Threat Manager," which prevents trackers as you browse the Web and while using mobile apps. Also, "ExpressVPN Keys" is a brand-new password manager that's currently in beta, available at no extra cost. There's also a system-wide kill switch called "Network Lock," in this case. Split tunneling is also on board.

Finally, know that ExpressVPN is also a great example of what reliable customer support should look like. Support agents are available 24/7 and accessible via live chat (via the VPN's site). And, being the best VPN in the world, it's no surprise that ExpressVPN has a 30-day no-questions-asked money-back policy.

2. NordVPN - Best VPN for High-End Privacy Protection

NordVPN can do many things, but privacy protection is its expertise. This VPN brings just about any imaginable security and privacy feature. However, at its core, this is a solid VPN powered by OpenVPN and NordLynx, a protocol designed by the VPN's team and based on WireGuard. Those protocols are paired with AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption.

We're talking about a no-logs VPN here. And yes, NordVPN was never afraid of independent audits. It also has a substantial number of servers, with more than 5,000+ servers spread across 60 countries. Many of those are specialized, such as Onion-over VPN, double VPN, and obfuscated servers. You can also use many of those to unblock websites (including streaming services), download torrents, and more.

In terms of its performance, it brings speeds comparable to other top-rated VPN services. You'll encounter some slowdowns unless you go into NordVPN's settings and try different protocols. And since this VPN offers plenty of servers, that gives you another option to optimize your VPN connection.

Let's return to talking about NordVPN's privacy. Aside from its specialized servers, this VPN offers a kill switch and split tunneling. When it comes to unique and more advanced features, there's "Threat Protection," which stops malware, Web trackers, and ads. Also, a Dark Web monitor alerts you if your email leaks or your accounts get compromised.

Let's not forget to mention that you get 6 simultaneous connections. You'll get to use this VPN on any device imaginable - everything from computers (including native software and Web browser extensions), phones, tablets, and streaming devices, as well as routers. Its apps are modern-looking and highly polished, suitable even for beginners.

As you can expect out of any reputable VPN, NordVPN also offers 24/7 customer support. In addition to plenty of self-help resources, you'll find live chat on offer as well. There's also a 30-day money-back policy across all of its subscription plans.

3. CyberGhost VPN - Best VPN to Use for Streaming

CyberGhost is a seriously capable VPN built upon the OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols, with AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption. Since it comes with a recently audited no-logs policy, that means CyberGhost is more than capable of protecting your privacy online.

Another strong suit of CyberGhost is its server network. This VPN has 9,000+ servers in 90+ countries, which is one of the most extensive VPN server fleets out there. On top of that, many of those servers are optimized for streaming, downloading files (and yes, that includes P2P), and gaming (available on Windows).

Speaking of content unblocking, CyberGhost is among the best VPN apps because it works with 40+ streaming services. This includes both US and non-US platforms. However, keep in mind that CyberGhost doesn't bring the best speeds overall. However, even though it's a bit slower than its competitors, you can optimize its performance by switching to another protocol.

This VPN gives you up to 7 simultaneous connections, which is quite generous. Aside from that, it has modern-looking apps for any desktop or mobile device, including streaming devices, routers, and more. In terms of the basics, you'll find those in all CyberGhost apps: a kill switch, split tunneling, and full data leak protection.

Those seeking the highest level of digital privacy should pay attention to "NoSpy" servers. Those are self-owned, self-operated, and in-house VPN servers - so, under full control by CyberGhost. You'll also find an antivirus app (for Windows only at the moment), which can be added to your subscription. Dedicated IP addresses are also on offer, helping you avoid extra security verifications (like CAPTCHA systems, for example).

It would also be fair to mention CyberGhost's reliable customer support. There's live chat available, with support agents being there 24/7. And if you want to fix any issue on your own, there are plenty of support articles to check. Finally, your purchase of any long-term CyberGhost subscription comes backed by a 45-day money-back policy.

4. Surfshark VPN - Best VPN Software for Desktop & Mobile

Surfshark is one of the rare VPNs that check all the right boxes without any compromises. In terms of its primary purpose, this VPN's privacy protection leaves no stone unturned. You get WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec, coupled with AES-256 and ChaCha20. On top of that, there's private DNS and leak protection, as well as obfuscated and RAM-only servers.

During the last year, this VPN was busy expanding its network. Today, it brings 3,200+ servers in 100 countries, featuring an evenly distributed global-scale fleet. There are standard servers as well as specialized servers on offer, letting you download torrents, bypass censorship, and even chain multiple servers together.

Surfshark has multiple systems to bypass geo-blocks and VPN blocks. Thanks to its 'NoBorders' mode, you can bypass any type of censorship. However, this VPN also bypasses blocks imposed by streaming services. That means streaming Netflix, Disney+, Max, and Prime Video will never be an issue.

In terms of its performance, know that Surfshark is among the best VPNs when it comes to its speed. On top of that, it brings unlimited simultaneous connections. Also, we're huge fans of the applications this VPN offers - they're highly modern and quite polished across all of Surfshark's supported devices and platforms. You won't have a single issue using any of its apps, even if you never used a VPN app before.

Let’s not forget to mention that Surfshark has numerous tricks up its sleeve. It offers a feature called CleanWeb - blocking ads, trackers, and malware. Then, it brings a powerful kill switch, multi-hop technology, and zero-knowledge servers. It even offers a real-time identity theft alert service, as well as GPS spoofing on Android.

In the end, we'll highlight that Surfshark offers 24/7-available customer support. That includes live chat, with support agents willing to tackle even the most difficult questions. Lastly, no matter which subscription plan you pick, you'll be protected by a 30-day money-back policy.

5. IPVanish - Best VPN for Protecting Many Devices

IPVanish is a no-fuss VPN service that doesn't require you to dive into VPN terminology. Still, this top VPN is nothing short of amazing. It's powered by OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2/IPsec, has an audited no-logs policy, and uses bank-grade encryption (AES-256). That combination of technologies works in the background to protect your online adventures.

This VPN offers servers in 50+ countries and 75+ locations and has a fleet of 2,200+ servers in total. So, not the biggest server network out there - but it should get the job done for most users. Also, IPVanish offers obfuscation in the form of a 'Scramble' feature, available with OpenVPN. So, you can use it even in countries with strict censorship and Web blocks.

When it comes to other features, know that IPVanish can protect any public (open) Wi-Fi, fight against DPI (Deep Packet Inspection), and bypass Internet censorship. This VPN also allows torrenting via its servers, including a SOCKS5 proxy.

In general, this VPN is optimized for protecting your privacy primarily, as well as unblocking a small group of streaming services. Based on our tests, it works with Netflix, Disney Plus, and BBC iPlayer. After some tinkering, you can also use it to unblock Hulu, Prime Video, and other streaming apps.

We'll also mention that you'll get unlimited simultaneous connections. There are also apps for PCs, smartphones, tablets, streaming devices, and even routers. That said, the only downside is this VPN's performance. Nearby servers are usually fast, but remote servers can be slow. So, it would help to have a fast Web connection.

Let's not forget to mention that IPVanish comes with helpful customer support. You'll find in-depth tutorials, frequently asked questions, and similar. There's also live chat, but it seems that feature doesn't seem to be available 24/7. Also, there's a 30-day money-back policy, applicable to long-term plans.

6. Private Internet Access - Best for Experienced VPN Users

Private Internet Access is one of the longest-standing best VPNs, with over a decade of serving users worldwide. It's powered by OpenVPN and WireGuard, both of which are open-source protocols that feature AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption. Even PIA's apps are open-source and backed by a no-logs policy.

This VPN no longer discloses the number of servers it offers. However, that number is surely in the thousands, covering 80+ countries in total. PIA's entire server network is owned by the VPN itself, and those are RAM-only servers with unlimited bandwidth and data. There are also servers for streaming, with 10Gbps connection speeds.

Even though that wasn't the case in the past, this top VPN is now suitable even for streaming. It unblocks Netflix, Disney+, Max, Hulu, Prime Video, Paramount+, and more. It can also be used for torrenting and gaming due to its fast performance and low latency. Compared to its direct competitors, PIA doesn't trail behind much. It's among the fastest VPNs right now.

Another amazing perk is that PIA comes with unlimited simultaneous connections. That's great to know, as PIA offers apps for computers, phones, tablets, and streaming devices, and you can also configure it on a VPN-ready router. All PIA apps are easy to use, giving you the option to fine-tune even the smallest part of your VPN tunnel.

As you can expect from any best premium VPN provider, there's a set of advanced options as well. That includes several types of kill switches, several types of split tunneling, as well as an ad-blocker, antivirus (Windows), SSL-based obfuscation, port forwarding, and more.

We'll also note that PIA comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, applicable to all plans. There's also always-helpful 24/7 live chat support, in addition to written guides, email support, and support tickets.

7. Proton VPN - Best VPN to Use for Torrenting

Proton VPN is powered by OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard, and Stealth. This is one of the first VPNs to have eliminated less secure protocols like SSTP, PPTP, and L2TP. Also, all its servers support AES-256 encryption and 'Perfect Forward Secrecy,' a special encryption cipher suite.

In terms of its server network, you'll find close to 3,000 servers here. They're spread across around 70 countries. Around 100 of those are "Core" servers, optimized for superior privacy and security. The rest are "Plus" servers that offer support for streaming, torrenting, Tor over VPN, and they also come with "NetShield," a feature designed to eliminate ads and trackers.

If you plan on using Proton VPN for streaming, you're in for a treat. This VPN can access Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, Max, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer. Also, streaming even in 4K should not be an issue since this VPN has something called "VPN Accelerator." Due to this feature, Proton VPN transmits data packets in a unique way, so even remote connections should be extra-fast.

Proton VPN gives you 10 simultaneous connections. You can install it on your computer, smartphone, tablet, or streaming device (Android TV only), and there are newly released Web browser extensions as well. Proton VPN is very easy to use, featuring a modern interface that seems suitable even for complete beginners.

Another reason to pick this VPN is due to its open-source nature, which means its code is open for anyone to inspect. On top of that, numerous independent audits have shown that Proton VPN logs no data and adheres to its strict no-logs policy. In terms of data leak protection, you can count on a kill system across all Proton VPN apps. Split tunneling is available on Windows and Android.

Perhaps the only downside is that Proton VPN doesn't offer live chat support. However, other support resources are there, including installation guides, FAQs, and ticket-based support. Lastly, keep in mind that Proton VPN offers a 30-day money-back policy across all its plans, even the monthly one.

8. Ivacy VPN - Best Budget-Friendly VPN

Ivacy is an excellent example of how top VPN services don't have to cost a lot. It all begins with this VPN's privacy protection, built upon WireGuard, OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec, and IKEv2. Each of those is paired with high-end encryption, leaving no stone unturned. What that means is that you can now count on getting stellar cyber-sec features without paying a lot.

Also, this VPN brings a sizable server fleet. You'll find 5,700+ servers in 70+ countries and 100+ locations. Also, you'll get to filter them based on their purpose - privacy protection, streaming, downloading files, and more. And speaking of streaming, this VPN works with Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, Prime Video, and ESPN+. Non-US platforms are on offer as well.

In terms of its performance, expect to encounter some throttling (you'll get better-than-average speeds, though). To alleviate that situation, Ivacy offers multiple VPN protocols. So, you can try different combinations and see which one works best based on your location.

We'll also note that Ivacy gives you 10 simultaneous connections. You can use its apps on a PC, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, streaming devices, Web browsers, and even routers. We have to say that Ivacy has nicely designed apps, designed even for first-time VPN users. However, they lack a bit of polish when compared to our other recommendations.

And, of course, this wouldn't be one of the best VPN services if it didn't offer leak protection through a kill switch and split tunneling. Even dedicated IPs are part of its offer. Ivacy also advertises IPv6 leak protection and secure DNS. Combined with its no-logs policy, that means Ivacy doesn't log any of your Web browsing data.

Without any surprise, there's 24/7 live chat support. If you prefer other channels, you can contact Ivacy through email or using a customer support ticket. There are also installation guides, a knowledge base, FAQs, and more. Do keep in mind that Ivacy has a 30-day money-back policy on long-term plans and a 7-day policy on its monthly plan.

9. Hide.Me – Best VPN for Home Users

Hide.Me is a great example of a top VPN that comes free of any complications. It's designed for the average home user but covers the basics in a great way. You'll find protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2, IPsec, SoftEther, and SSTP. Each of them is paired with high-end encryption, so you don't have to worry about the visibility of your data online.

When it comes to its server network, you'll find 2,100+ servers in 45+ countries. So, not the biggest network out there, but it evenly covers Asia, Europe, and North America. Best of all, this VPN has a self-managed network, so no third parties are involved. And, of course, Hide.Me has a privacy-centric zero-log policy in place.

This VPN offers native software for Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, browsers, streaming devices, and even routers. When it comes to Windows, this VPN has a feature called "Bolt," designed to maximize your speed based on the specific ways this operating system treats VPN traffic. Also, you get 10 simultaneous connections, which seems generous.

Also, based on our tests, Hide.Me works with various Netflix libraries - but that's where this VPN's streaming capabilities end. It does support torrenting, though. So, before you decide to go with this VPN, make sure to have an idea about your planned online activities.

In terms of more advanced features, there's "SmartGuard," which blocks advertisements and trackers. It also relies on an extensive list of known malicious websites and warns you against visiting those. Also, there's "StealthGuard," which is this VPN's kill switch. You can choose from using a system-level kill switch or simply select which apps you want to route through the VPN.

When it comes to its customer support, Hide.Me offers 24/7 live chat support. You can also create a support ticket, visit a knowledgebase, or take part in this VPN's online community. Another reason why this is one of the top VPNs is that it brings a free tier. But you won't risk anything even if you pay since Hide.Me is backed by a 30-day money-back policy.

10. Windscribe – Best VPN with a Free Tier

Windscribe is best known for its free tier. However, it's also one of the best premium VPN apps. It's powered by OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard, coupled with AES-256 and ChaCha20. And, of course, this VPN promises a strict no-logs policy. Even its website comes free of trackers, which tells a lot right off the bat.

We don't know exactly how many servers this VPN has - but it covers 60+ countries and 100+ cities. Also, none of the servers are virtual, which they're all physically in the countries they're advertised to be in. Thankfully, you can use all those servers to unblock online content, as Windscribe works great for bypassing geo-blocks.

Paying customers of this high-speed VPN can count on unblocking Netflix, Hulu, Max, Disney Plus, BBC iPlayer, and even torrenting is supported. So, you can use this VPN for privacy protection, streaming, torrenting, and even gaming - as it comes with anti-DDoS systems.

This VPN gives you unlimited simultaneous connections, as well as apps for Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, streaming devices, routers, and Web browsers. In fact, we highly recommend combining its desktop apps with Web browser extensions, as that combination brings various privacy protections that go beyond what a typical VPN can offer.

Among other features, a kill switch is there (in the form of a specialized firewall), split tunneling, static IPs, and you can also create double-hop connections, block ads, block WebRTC leaks, as well as spoof your timezone and eliminate cookies. So, a lot of features, as you can see.

We'll also add that Windscribe doesn't have live chat support. It features a bot instead, which is mostly unhelpful. However, you'll find a comprehensive support system in the form of written guides, installation tutorials, FAQs, and more. Also, Windscribe has a 3-day money-back policy, and you must be under 10GB of data to ask for a refund.

11. VyprVPN –Best VPN to Use for Bypassing Censorship

VyprVPN is one of the best VPN services for privacy, taking your digital well-being seriously. It's powered by OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2, and L2TP/IPsec. However, it also has its own protocol called Chameleon, an altered version of OpenVPN capable of bypassing even the most restrictive networks and geo-blocks.

Regarding its server network, VyprVPN has 700+ servers. Even though most VPNs have bigger server fleets, VyprVPN operates a bare-metal network in 90+ locations. That means all its servers are owned by the VPN itself without involving third parties. Also, that means VyprVPN can implement optimizations and special features without relying on data centers.

Of course, this VPN isn't only focused on your privacy online. In recent years, it also became an excellent option for streaming. It works with Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Prime Video, and plenty more. And when it comes to torrenting, known that VyprVPN allows P2P, but it doesn't allow copyright infringement. Also, VyprVPN is quite fast, making it suitable even for more bandwidth-intensive tasks.

This VPN gives you 10 simultaneous connections. You can use it on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. It's also possible to configure VyprVPN on a router and protect your entire household at once. On top of that, all VyprVPN apps are backed by a no-logs policy, VyprDNS (a private DNS system that unblocks the Web), and public Wi-Fi protection.

In terms of more advanced features, VyprVPN has a kill switch and split tunneling. So, you can rest assured that your privacy will remain protected even if something happens to your VPN tunnel. Split tunneling is there to allow you to select which apps route your traffic through your VPN tunnel, leaving everything else flowing the regular way.

This wouldn't be one of the best VPN services if it didn't offer in-depth customer support. There's 24/7 live chat support, as well as comprehensive setup guides, useful articles, FAQs, and more. Getting VyprVPN is risk-free as well, since it has a 30-day money-back policy.

12. PureVPN – Best VPN for Bargain Hunters

PureVPN is a well-known name in the world of VPN services, with years of experience serving millions of users worldwide. It's a feature-rich VPN service based on WireGuard (with ChaCha20 encryption), OpenVPN, and IPsec/IKEv2 (with AES-256 encryption), bringing a nice balance between performance and security/privacy.

This no-logs VPN comes with 6,500+ servers in 75+ countries and around 90 locations spread evenly across the globe. This VPN recently switched to using 20Gbps servers, which helps with its (somewhat problematic) performance. However, connections to nearby servers are typically ultra-fast. 

We have more good news. If you're after streaming, know that PureVPN unblocks various Netflix libraries, Disney+, Hulu, Prime Video, and Max. However, it doesn't bring the fastest speeds, so it wouldn't hurt to have a fast Web connection. Also, there's support for torrenting via specialized servers. Even gaming is possible since this VPN comes with dedicated IPs, port forwarding, protection against DDoS, and more.

PureVPN is present on practically any device or platform. There are apps for computers, mobile devices, streaming devices, routers, and even Web browser extensions. On top of that, you get 10 simultaneous connections to use PureVPN at home and on the go.

We'll also add that PureVPN has a kill switch (Windows, macOS, and Android) as well as split tunneling (Windows, Android, Android TV). It also protects your connection against data leaks, and that includes IPv6 leaks as well - so, no need to worry whether your IP address could find its way to the Web.

Just like other best VPN services, PureVPN also has 24/7 live chat support, in addition to installation guides, FAQs, service status pages, support tickets, and more. Lastly, all PureVPN subscription plans come with a 31-day money-back policy.

13. Hotspot Shield – Best for Unblocking Websites

Hotspot Shield is an elegant VPN solution whose aim is to simplify your interaction with digital privacy protection. It comes with a rich set of features based on its own Hydra protocol (based on OpenVPN), known for its speed and minimal throttling. However, it uses AES-128 (as opposed to AES-256, used by most VPNs), which is the reason for its fast performance.

This VPN provides you access to 3,000+ servers in 80+ countries. That gives you more than plenty of options to unblock foreign content or bypass your own country's censorship. Speaking of that, Hotspot Shield unblocks any imaginable website, including streaming platforms. Based on our tests, it works on Hulu, iPlayer, Mac, ESPN+, Disney+, Hulu, and more.

In terms of its device compatibility, Hotspot Shield has software for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. You can also use it on Linux, Fire TV, and Android TV. Also, this VPN works on routers, allowing you to cover your entire household at once. You get 10 simultaneous connections – which should be enough for most users.

Another benefit is Hotspot Shield's performance. It's not the fastest VPN around, but it manages to beat most of its competition. We were very impressed by the speed of servers in the United States and Canada, even when connecting from across the world. So, we recommend this top VPN even if you don't have an ultra-fast Web connection.

Let's also note that Hotspot Shield covers the basics and provides several advanced features. A kill switch is there to secure you against leaks (on Windows, Android, and iOS). Split tunneling is also available, on Windows, macOS, and mobile devices. You can also use 'Tor over VPN' if you need extra protection, and Hotspot Shield also guards you against malware and ads.

Before you become a Hotspot Shield subscriber, you can use its 7-day trial. There's also a free version, but it's quite limited in features and performance. And should you ever need help, know that this VPN offers 24/7 live chat support, platform-specific guides, FAQs, and more.

14. TunnelBear – Best Barebones VPN Service

TunnelBear is among the best VPNs if you're after something really simple. This is a relatively simple yet effective VPN designed for privacy protection. It uses protocols like OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2, pairing them with bank-grade encryption. The VPN itself won’t know what you do online, as it comes with a no-logs privacy policy.

We don't know how many servers TunnelBear offers, but we know that those servers are found in close to 50 countries. Also, none of those are virtual servers. That means TunnelBear uses a different approach than most VPNs - keeping its server network relatively small but made of real, physical servers only.

In general, you can use this VPN to unblock websites. However, that doesn't apply to media streaming services (except for Pluto TV and ITVX, as per our tests). Also, TunnelBear makes no mention of torrenting on its website - even though P2P works across all its servers. However, know that TunnelBear's remote connections tend to be on the slow side, while you can get fast speeds if you use nearby servers only.

In terms of its apps, TunnelBear works on Windows, macOS, Android, iOS/iPadOS, and you can use its Chrome and Firefox add-ons. Sadly, there's no way to set up this VPN on a router. However, you get unlimited simultaneous connections, so you can install and use this VPN on as many devices as you want and need.

For the most part, TunnelBear is designed for minimal interaction. You open it, connect to a VPN server, and forget that it's there. Still, it does offer a bit of fine-tuning. For example, a kill switch is there (Windows, macOS, Android), and split tunneling (mobile devices only). There's obfuscation available via a feature called 'GhostBear,' as well as 'TunnelBear Blocker' that works in Chrome only (keeping pop-ups and ads away).

You need to keep two more things in mind regarding TunnelBear. There's no live chat support, which is understandable considering its low price. Also, this VPN also doesn't offer money-back guarantees. You can ask for a refund, but TunnelBear reviews those requests on a case-by-case basis.

15. HideMyAss (HMA) – Best International Server Selection

Our guide to the best VPN services tries to cater to various types of users. That said, some of you might be after a secure VPN with extra-extensive server coverage. HideMyAss (HMA) meets that requirement while still managing to provide a sturdy base. This is a long-standing VPN based on OpenVPN, WireGuard, and Mimic (a proprietary protocol designed to bypass censorship in countries such as China).

Even though HMA comes with around 1,100 servers, those are spread across 210+ countries. To make that possible, this VPN uses a combination of physical and virtual servers. So, if you need an IP from African countries, for example, this is perhaps the only VPN to offer that option.

You can also do a lot with HMA's servers. Of course, you'll get to protect your privacy primarily. In that sense, know that HMA's apps are designed not to collect any data. The VPN also went through multiple independent audits to provide that. However, HMA's browser extensions do collect some personal data, so we don't recommend using those (even though your data will be deleted after 30 days).

This VPN plays well when it comes to streaming, for the most part. It works with Netflix, iPlayer, Disney+, Max, and more (however, there are better options for streaming). One thing that HMA doesn't allow is torrenting. Even though it offers P2P servers in Europe and the USA, it allows you to download legal P2P files only.

In terms of more advanced features, a kill switch is available on Windows, macOS, and Android. Split tunneling works on Android only. Then, there's 'IP Shuffling,' meaning that HMA can rotate your IP address every now and then. Of course, there's data leak protection, which includes protection against IPv6 leaks as well. Also, you get up to 10 simultaneous connections.

HMA takes care of its customers through installation guides, FAQs, and support tickets. There's no live chat on board, though. To ease your mind, HMA offers a 7-day trial as well as a 30-day money-back policy.

Comparison: Best VPN Services in 2023

Features

ExpressVPN

NordVPN

CyberGhost VPN

Surfshark

IPVanish

PIA

ProtonVPN

Ivacy VPN

Hide.Me

Windscribe

VyprVPN

PureVPN

Hotspot Shield

TunnelBear

HMA

Jurisdiction

British Virgin Islands

Panama

Romania

The Netherlands

The USA

The USA

Switzerland

Singapore

Malaysia

Canada

Switzerland

British Virgin Islands

The USA

The USA & Canada

The UK

Logs

No logs

No logs

No logs

No logs

No logs

No logs

No logs

Anonymous reports and statistics

No logs

Anonymous reports and statistics

No logs

No logs

No personally identifiable information

No personally identifiable information

No personally identifiable information

Servers

3,000+ in 94 countries

5,500+ in 60 countries

9,500+ in 90+ countries

3,200+ in 100+ countries

2,000+ in 50+ countries

N/A; 80+ countries

2,700+ in 65+ countries

5,700+ in 65+ countries

2,100+ in 45+ countries

N/A; 60+ countries

700+ in 70+ countries

6,500+ in 70+ countries

3,000+ in 80+ countries

N/A; 45+ countries

1,100+ in 200+ countries

Simultaneous Connections

5

6

7

Unlimited

Unlimited

Unlimited

10

10

10

Unlimited

5

10

10

5

5/10

Supported Devices

Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, routers, and more

Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Web browsers, and routers

Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Web browsers, Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, routers, and more

Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Smart TVs, Web browsers, and routers

Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Fire OS, routers, and more

Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Web browsers, routers

Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome OS, routers

Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Web browsers, and routers

Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, FireOS, Web browsers, and routers

Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android (TV), Web browsers, routers

Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Android TV, routers

Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Fire OS, Web browsers, and routers

Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome

Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Web browsers

Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, routers

Features

Kill switch, split tunneling, private DNS, anti-tracking, and more

Kill switch, split tunneling, DNS leak protection, IPv6 leak protection, ad-blocker, anti-malware, and more

Kill switch, split tunneling, DNS leak protection, IPv6 leak protection, ad-blocker, anti-malware, and more

Kill switch, split tunneling, DNS leak protection, IPv6 leak protection, ad-blocker, anti-malware, and more

Kill switch, split tunneling, DNS leak protection, IPv6 leak protection, and more

Kill switch, split tunneling, DNS leak protection, IPv6 leak protection, ad-blocker, anti-malware, and more

Kill switch, split tunneling, DNS leak protection, IPv6 leak protection, ad-blocker, anti-malware, and more

Kill switch, split tunneling, DNS leak protection, IPv6 leak protection, anti-malware, and more

Kill switch, split tunneling, DNS leak protection, IPv6 leak protection, and more

Kill switch, split tunneling, DNS leak protection, IPv6 leak protection, ad-blocker, anti-malware, and more

Kill switch, split tunneling, DNS leak protection, IPv6 leak protection, and more

Kill switch, split tunneling, DNS leak protection, IPv6 leak protection, and more

Kill switch, DNS leak protection, ad-blocker, and anti-malware

Kill switch, DNS leak protection, ad-blocker, and anti-malware

Kill switch and DNS leak protection

Protocols

OpenVPN, Lightway, L2TP/IPsec, IKEv2

OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, NordLynx

OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, WireGuard

OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2

WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2, IPsec

OpenVPN, WireGuard, L2TP/IPSec, IKEv2

OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2/IPSec

OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2/IPSec, L2TP/IPSec

OpenVPN, SoftEther, IKEv2, SSTP

OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2, and StealthVPN

L2TP/IPsec, WireGuard, OpenVPN, and Chameleon

OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec, and IKEv2

Hydra

OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard

OpenVPN, WireGuard, Mimic

Supports

Torrenting, gaming, Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and more

Torrenting, gaming, Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and more

Torrenting, gaming, Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and more

Torrenting, gaming, Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and more

Torrenting, gaming, Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and more

Torrenting, gaming, Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and more

Torrenting, gaming, Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and more

Torrenting, gaming, Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and more

Torrenting, gaming, Netflix

Torrenting, gaming, Netflix, Hulu, and more

Torrenting, gaming, Netflix, and more

Torrenting, gaming, Netflix, Hulu, and more

Torrenting, gaming, and streaming

Torrenting and gaming

Torrenting, gaming, and Netflix

Customer Support

24/7 live chat, email support, and more

24/7 live chat, email support, and more

24/7 live chat and more

24/7 live chat and more

24/7 live chat, email support, and more

24/7 live chat, email support, and more

24/7 live chat and more

24/7 live chat, email support, and more

24/7 live chat and more

24/7 live chat and more

24/7 live chat and more

24/7 live chat and more

24/7 live chat and more

FAQs and support tickets

24/7 live chat and more

Money-Back Guarantee

30 days

30 days

45 days

30 days

30 days

30 days

30 days

30 days

30 days

3 days

30 days

31 days

45 days

N/A

30 days

How We Rank the Top VPNs

We rank the top VPN providers by performing extensive research before testing their services and features firsthand. Here’s everything we do to test and rank the best VPN software options:

• Buying a Subscription - We buy a subscription from the provider just like any other user would and review the VPN ourselves to see firsthand what users can expect. We also maintain active subscriptions for every VPN we mention on our website, so we can update our reviews whenever they add new features or services.
• Checking Background, Jurisdiction, and Reputation - We always do a deep dive and research where each VPN provider is located, what privacy laws it needs to abide by, and if its home country is part of the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance. We also conduct background checks to see if the VPN has had any data leaks in the past, if it has worked with law enforcement, or if any independent cyber-security companies have audited it.
• Checking Compatibility - We check whether the VPN works across a wide range of devices, including computers, mobile phones, tablets, media streaming devices, Web browsers, and routers. After all, you'll want a VPN that works on any device you might have.
• Reviewing the Setup - We review how easy it is to set up and configure the VPN by installing it on our computer and other devices. As a general rule, you should avoid VPNs that don't offer native software or ask you to use a third-party client.
• Checking the Features - Some VPNs offer security and privacy features only, whereas others offer many more benefits. We give the highest ranking to the VPNs that offer the full package, including adequate security and privacy, impressive speed and performance, and excellent customer support.
• Server Infrastructure - We check how many servers a VPN offers and how many countries it covers. The best VPN needs to offer a sizable server network, giving you a lot of freedom when choosing a server to use. Also, VPNs with more servers tend to perform better.
• Design and Ease of Use - We determine how easy the VPN is to use and if its user interface is simple. We give the highest score to the providers that are suitable even for beginners.
• Pricing, Value, and Final Rating - After reviewing all the features and services that the VPN offers, we estimate how much value it provides. Then, we make our final rating based on the scores of all the criteria we tested, which is how we can find the best VPN for the money.

Check out our full article with a more comprehensive guide to how we review VPNs. Our 13-step process ensures our thorough reviews are based on hands-on experience and rigorous testing.

Why Do You Need a VPN?

The primary purpose of any VPN is to protect and safeguard your digital privacy. In other words, anything you do online will be out of anyone's reach - so you don't have to worry about being followed on the Web. However, there are many more benefits to using a VPN, as explained below.

• Be Anonymous Online - Not only can a VPN protect your data, but it can also offer a high level of anonymity online. It will hide your location, information, and online activity, allowing you to stream and browse with no digital footprint. Not even your Internet provider will know what you do online - as long as your data is protected by your VPN service.
• Bypass Geo-Restrictions - With a VPN, you can connect to a server in a different country and access restricted content. In other words, if a specific TV show, movie, or website isn’t available in your country, you can access it by changing your virtual location with your VPN. This works great for bypassing VPN blocks when censorship is involved as well, in countries like China, for example.
• Avoid Bandwidth Throttling - Internet Service Providers (ISPs) can slow down your Internet when they see that you’re using a lot of data. This can happen when you stream your favorite shows or download large files. However, a VPN can help you bypass ISP throttling by hiding your online activity from your ISP. 
• Use Public Wi-Fi Networks Safely - Public networks are not safe and can leak your private information or leave your devices vulnerable to cyberattacks as malicious actors use them to reach many people at once. A VPN will encrypt your Internet connection so you can safely browse online regardless of the network.
• Safe Torrenting - If you get a VPN, you’ll be able to share files safely with no unnecessary risks. Furthermore, your Internet speed won’t be compromised by ISP throttling while torrenting, as they won’t be able to see what you’re doing. So, when it comes to torrenting, you'll get a more stable connection that's also hidden from your Internet provider.
• Secure Your Work-Related Data - If you work remotely and not using an enterprise VPN, a commercial VPN (like those recommended in this guide) will help secure your work-related files. So, you can use any Internet connection in the world without thinking whether your work data will end up in the wrong hands.
• Reach More Entertainment Online - Just above, we mentioned that a VPN could help you unblock new streaming services. However, the same applies to unblocking new titles on any service you already use. For example, if you have a Netflix subscription, you can get new movies and TV shows from another country without paying extra.

Not yet convinced that a VPN is a good idea? If so, here's why you need to use a VPN, as well as what you can do with a VPN.

How to Choose the Best VPN Provider?

Choosing the best VPN provider without a clear plan or checklist, you'll be overwhelmed as soon as you start comparing different VPNs. So, to find a reliable and capable VPN, here's what you need to look for:

• Native Software: When it comes to VPNs, you can forget about configuring them manually. Instead, any reputable VPN will bring native software for desktop (Windows, macOS, Linux) and mobile (iOS, Android) devices. Aside from that, there are VPNs for streaming devices (Android TV, FireOS) and even routers. Here's how to set up a VPN, by the way.
• Generous Limit on Simultaneous Connections: VPN services come with a limited number of simultaneous connections. So, think about how many devices you'll want to protect. And then, make sure to find a VPN that works for you. Also, keep in mind that a very small group of VPNs offer unmetered simultaneous connections.
• Privacy-Focused Features & Capabilities: There's a set of standard features that you can expect from any VPN. Among those, you'll find support for OpenVPN, AES-256 encryption, and native software for any desktop or mobile platform. When it comes to more advanced features, you'll want a kill switch, split tunneling, as well as support for WireGuard (a new, innovative, and highly secure VPN protocol).
• Specific Use Cases: Think about the activities you'd like to disguise using a VPN. If you plan on downloading torrenting, streaming online media, or playing online games, you'll want a VPN that has servers specialized for those activities. Also, if you're in a country with heavy censorship, be aware that VPN obfuscation is a must-have feature.
• Ease of Use / User-Friendliness: Not everyone wants a complex VPN with hundreds of options and features. Of course, if you have some prior experience with VPNs, you will appreciate a more comprehensive VPN service. That way, you'll get to fine-tune even the smallest "parts" of your connection.
• Sizeable Server Network: It's crucial to know how many servers you'll get, as well as in what countries or locations those servers are found (here's how to choose the best country to connect to using a VPN). Also, pay attention to whether you'll get VPN virtual locations or you'll be interacting with real, physical servers owned by your VPN.
• Speed & Throttling: When it comes to any VPN, you can expect some throttling. However, the very best VPN services make that drawback close to unnoticeable. This is an important aspect that separates great VPNs from mediocre ones. However, don't trust any marketing messages. Instead, rely on hands-on reviews to check what kind of performance to expect.
• Pricing & Money-Back Guarantees: We have tried to bring a list of affordably priced VPNs in this guide, suitable for all kinds of budgets. However, since VPNs tend to change their pricing structures often, do your own research as well. Aside from that, you'll always get money-back guarantees. That means that you'll make your investment risk-free.
• Customer Service: Last but not least, the best VPN should have impeccable customer support that includes 24/7 live chat. That way, in case something goes wrong, you'll be happy to have picked a VPN that can resolve your issue in no time.

In case you’d like to know more about how to choose a VPN, we’ve prepared a handy buyer’s guide to VPN services. Also, we offer a guide that explains what to look for in a VPN, so make sure to take a look.

Best VPN Services by Category

VPNs can be used for a wide variety of purposes, including streaming content, gaming, surfing the web, and more. Here we break down the various uses of VPNs and offer solutions for each.

• Devices - Good VPN services are compatible with multiple devices, so you can secure your connection at home and on the go. Access your desired content anywhere in the world on your laptop, tablet, phone, or any other device by simply changing your location. All your devices will be secure even when connected to public networks at schools, hotels, cafes, etc. Check out our dedicated guide to learn about the best VPN for multiple devices.
• Web Browsers - A top VPN for web browsers can hide your online activity, preventing third parties from seeing what you search for and accessing online. It will also encrypt your Internet connection and keep your personal information safe. Additionally, a VPN can help you avoid bandwidth throttling, so your browsing experience isn’t slow.
• Routers - When you set up a VPN on your router, the online activity of every device you connect to your Wi-Fi will be secured and protected, including your smart TV, gaming console, desktop computer, and more.
• Server Network - A VPN with a wide server network will allow you to unblock content from various countries. It also provides faster connection speeds since it has servers in many places. To learn more about which VPN service providers offer wide server networks, check out our article on the VPNs with the most servers.
• Streaming - Only the best VPN providers can offer a seamless streaming experience to their users. They can also allow you to stream movies and shows that are unavailable in your country by bypassing certain geo-blocks and restrictions. What’s more, with a good VPN, you can stream in 4K with no buffering issues. Check out our dedicated article if you want to discover the best VPN for streaming.
• Sports - A VPN will allow you to access live streams of sporting events that are otherwise unavailable to you. You can bypass the geo-restrictions in place and watch whatever you want, no matter where you are. You’ll also be able to stream games on multiple devices and watch them on the go. Check out our guide on the best VPN for sports to learn more.
• Torrenting - Torrenting can be risky, but with a VPN, you can avoid copyright infringement fines and download torrent files anonymously. Top VPN providers provide you with high download and upload speeds, making your torrenting experience better. Check out our best VPN for torrenting guide to learn about the top-rated VPNs for all your torrenting needs.
• Gaming - With a good VPN, you can play games from anywhere and buy them cheaper by changing your location to a country where the game you want costs less. A VPN service can help you avoid bandwidth throttling and provide a faster connection and lower ping. Discover the best VPN for gaming in our dedicated article.
• Social Media - Social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram are blocked or heavily restricted in certain countries. However, a VPN can bypass those blocks and enable you to use those apps no matter where you are. No one will know that you’re using them because your online activity will be hidden. Read our guide to the best VPN for social media.
• Messaging - If you get a VPN for messaging, you’ll be able to use virtually any messaging app you want, even if it’s not available in your country. Your messages will be encrypted, so your personal information won’t be leaked or hacked.
• Dating - Dating apps require you to provide your personal info, upload your photos, and use a credit card to pay for a membership. To prevent that data from getting leaked, you need a good VPN that will encrypt your Internet connection and keep everything safe. Check out our article on the best VPN for dating to learn what we recommend as the top options.
• Crypto Trading - Crypto wallets and trading platforms are heavily targeted by hackers. To keep your wallet safe and your trading secure, you should use a reliable crypto VPN that will encrypt your Internet connection and protect you from cyberattacks. It will also enable you to access crypto trading platforms that are blocked in your country. Read our best VPN for crypto trading article to decide which VPN service fits your needs.
• Online Gambling - Many countries ban or restrict online gambling. If you are from such a country or are traveling to one, you’ll need a VPN if you want to gamble. A VPN can also unblock features and enable you to gamble on sites that aren’t available to you for reasons other than your location. Check out our article on the best VPN for gambling to learn more about this topic.
• NFTs - A good VPN service will provide you with high-end privacy that can protect your NFT assets. It will also enable you to buy and sell NFTs safely and collect your payments. To find the best VPN for NFT, check out our dedicated article.

What Is a VPN and How Does It Work?

A VPN is an application that creates a secure connection between your device and the Internet. Using a VPN, you route all your incoming and outgoing traffic through a chosen VPN server whose mission is to hide what you do online.

Without a VPN, your Web traffic is fully exposed online and visible to your Internet provider and any website you visit. Then, those websites can track where you go next by employing trackers. That means as soon as you start browsing the Web, your privacy disappears.

However, once you start using a VPN, that situation changes. Your data starts to flow through 3 stages, with the goal of encrypting your traffic. Here's how a VPN works:

• Stage 1 - Your Data Leaves Your Device: The first step is to connect to the Web like you already do (via Wi-Fi or Ethernet). Then, you open your VPN application, log in, and you reach your VPN's selection of servers. Once you connect to any of those servers, your data will start leaving your data in a new way - flowing through the VPN server instead of directly to its destination.
• Stage 2 - Your Data Flows Through the VPN Server: As you start routing your data, your chosen VPN server will encapsulate your data packets. That means your traffic will be broken down, and every single packet will be repackaged to make it unreadable. This is when the websites you visit and your Internet provider will lose track of what you do online.
• Stage 3 - Your Data Reaches the Web: You can now minimize your VPN application and keep it running in the background. Fire up your favorite Web browser and use the Web as you would normally do. So, there are no changes to your regular workflow. However, any data you send from your device and to your device will remain encrypted.

Also, know that VPNs use various kinds of VPN protocols combined with different levels of VPN encryption. Once your data leaves your VPN's server, it does so with a new IP address. That means you will hide your IP address, preventing websites from knowing your physical location.

If you want a deeper explanation, turn to our guide that dives into how VPNs work. You'll learn about VPNs' history, different types of VPN services/apps, and more.

What Does a VPN Do?

A VPN can do many things, including - protecting your privacy on the Web, preventing trackers from following you, unblocking sites, protecting you on public Wi-Fi, and more.

In essence, the best VPN will encrypt your Web traffic, making sure no one sees what you do online. Since your data will flow through a VPN tunnel, that will keep your Internet Service Provider, trackers, hackers, and any third party away from your data.

In other words, VPNs are the best tool available for protecting your safety on the Web. However, as a consequence of routing your traffic, you'll get a new IP address, which can be associated with some other country. That's how you can unblock websites, reach new digital services, or use your favorite digital services from abroad.

To learn more, here's what you can do with a VPN (containing 10 helpful tips), and also, here's what is a VPN used for, providing more information on the topic.

How Much Does a VPN Cost?

A VPN will typically cost you around $10 to $13 per month. However, you can lower its price by picking a long-term subscription plan.

That way, you can reduce your chosen VPN's price by around 50% and sometimes even more. However, to take advantage of those offers, be prepared to pay for the entire duration of your subscription in advance. To learn how to make that happen, check our guide explaining how much a VPN costs.

How to Check If Your VPN Is Working?

The easiest way to check if your VPN works would be to check your IP. More precisely, use Google to check your IP address before and after connecting to a VPN server.

As explained above, VPNs change your IP address as your Web traffic goes through their servers. That means your VPN IP address should be different from your actual IP address (assigned to you by your Internet Service Provider).

To check your IP address on Google, type in "My IP." The Web search engine will show your IP at the top, before listing its other search results.

If you need more detailed instructions, here's how to check if your VPN is working.

Does a VPN Slow Down Internet?

Yes, any VPN will slow down the speed of your Internet connection. However, picking a capable VPN will help you maximize the speed of your VPN connection.

VPNs reduce your Web connection's speed because they force your data to travel more. More precisely, they send your traffic through a dedicated VPN server. That adds an additional stop for your data before it reaches its destination.

In general, the best VPNs will reduce the speed of your Web connection by 10 to 20%. That's not a significant setback, especially if you already have a relatively speedy connection.

To check what to expect from each VPN protocol, here's our guide that explains why a VPN slows down your Internet speed. You can also find more actionable tips in our guide explaining why your VPN is so slow.

What Are the Limitations of VPNs?

In terms of their limitations, VPNs can't make you 100% anonymous; they affect the speed of your Web connection; they can't always bypass geo-blocks; and they increase your data consumption. Here's more information:

• VPNs Can't Make You 100% Anonymous: Even though they can do a lot to prevent various kinds of data tracking, VPNs can't make you 100% anonymous. That especially goes for those who use aggressive browsers like Chrome or aggressive Web search engines like Google. Switching to more privacy-friendly alternatives is always a good idea.
• VPNs Affect Your Web Connection Speed: It's no secret that VPNs take your data through a longer route, as they need to process it through their servers. As a result, VPNs decrease your Web connection speed. However, there's a lot you can do to speed up a slow VPN, and also, top-rated VPNs are able to maintain extra-fast performance.
• VPNs Can't Always Bypass Restrictions: If you're looking to bypass censorship or unblock a new streaming website, a VPN is the best tool for the job. However, anti-VPN blocks are still there, and their power grows with each new day. So, even though VPNs bypass all kinds of restrictions, their performance in that sense can fluctuate over time.
• VPNs Increase Data Usage: Since they wrap your data into packets, VPNs increase the amount of bandwidth you use. Based on various tests, that increase can be between 4% and 20%, based on the protocol you use. So, this is something to keep in mind if you have a Web connection that comes with limited bandwidth.

What Are the Pros and Cons of VPNs?

Even though VPNs do have some downsides (just like any software out there), their numerous benefits easily outweigh any drawbacks.

In terms of their pros, VPNs keep you safe and protected online (here's how safe is a VPN really), they're cross-platform compatible, and they help you unblock sites. Then, VPNs are essential for downloading torrents, speeding up throttled connections, and they even help you save money (by hiding your location and your previous purchases).

When it comes to their cons, VPNs can't unblock every single website out there. Then, they will slow down your Web connection a bit, and they're illegal in a small group of countries.

If you want to know more about each of the previously mentioned benefits and drawbacks, make sure to read our in-depth guide to the pros and cons of a VPN.

Where Are VPNs Illegal?

Currently, VPNs are illegal in Belarus, Iraq, Oman, Turkmenistan, and North Korea. If you're in any of those countries, you should not use a VPN.

Also, know that VPNs are regulated or blocked in China, Turkey, the UAE, Russia, and Iran. Using a VPN in those countries can be challenging, as they face various anti-VPN mechanisms that prevent them from functioning.

Speaking of China, we offer plenty of practical guides. For example, here's how to use a VPN in China without breaking the law. You'll also want to know how to download a VPN in China. And lastly, check our guide to the best VPN for China.

When it comes to Russia, that country has a long history of implementing Web restrictions. Not too long ago, VPNs such as VyprVPN and Opera VPN stopped working there. So, you'll want to check our updated guide to the best VPN for Russia.

Paid VPNs vs. Free VPNs

Wondering why should you go for a paid VPN when some free VPNs offer their services for free? Well, free VPN services might be tempting, but you need to avoid them at all costs, and we'll tell you why.

All of the currently available free VPNs are limited in one way or another. For example, they keep the speed of your Web connection limited, come with strict data allowances, let you connect to a couple of servers only, and similar.

There are also reports of free VPNs leaking data, which means that a free VPN can endanger your privacy. So, it’s safe to say that free VPNs aren’t safe to use.

Also, you can pick a premium VPN even if you're on a tight budget. To see your options, check out the best cheap VPN services. And also, it's always worth checking the best VPN deals (we make sure to keep that article up-to-date at all times).

Check our guide: Difference between free vs. paid vs. free trial VPNs

Why Isn't Your VPN Working?

There are several things to try when your VPN doesn't work, like trying a different protocol, different server, or checking for software conflicts. Find more info below.

• Switch to Another VPN Protocol: VPN servers are optimized for multiple protocols. Still, technical issues may arise, causing your chosen server to stop working with a specific protocol. In that case, you'll want to pick another protocol by visiting your VPN's settings.
• Switch to Another Server: Servers in countries like the USA, Canada, and the UK are quite popular, in general. So, they can get overcrowded at times, reducing their performance. To bypass that, simply pick a different server.
• Update Your App & Operating System: VPN apps receive regular updates that enhance their performance and bring all kinds of improvements. So, make sure to update your VPN app. Aside from that, you'll want to keep your device's operating system up-to-date.
• Check for Software Conflicts: VPNs belong to the cyber-sec group of software, just like firewalls, antivirus apps, and similar. However, if you have several of those on your device, that could lead to a software conflict. So, remove any apps you don't use or "whitelist" your VPN in your firewall or antivirus app.
• Contact Your VPN's Support Team: If nothing else helps, contact your VPN and explain the issue you're having. Try to be as precise as possible, which will help you get a solution without exchanging multiple messages and wasting time.

If you'd like to check additional solutions, we have a guide that explains why your VPN doesn't work. Also, you can consult our central VPN troubleshooting guide for more tips.

Final Thoughts

We have discussed how the best paid VPN providers will allow you to access all the content you want and protect your data while maintaining complete anonymity online. After breaking down our thorough review process, we offered a comprehensive comparison of the top 15 VPN providers on the market.

Out of all the options we reviewed, we recommend ExpressVPN as the best VPN service to use in 2023. It offers top-of-the-line privacy features and security protocols as well as lightning-fast connection speeds, making it the best VPN for streaming, torrenting, gaming, and more. 

Dear readers, this is where we conclude our article on the top-rated VPNs in 2023. If there’s anything else you’d like to know, don’t hesitate to post a comment below. We’ll do our best to provide a timely response.