The Best VPN Deals This Week*
- ProtonVPN — PCMag Exclusive: $3.59 Per Month (64% Off 2-Year Plan)
- Surfshark VPN — $2.19 Per Month + 3-Months Free (86% Off 2-Year Plan)
- NordVPN — $3.09 Per Month + 3-Months Free (Up to 74% Off 2-Year Plan)
- IPVanish VPN — $2.19 Per Month + 3-Months Free (83% Off 2-Year Plan)
- Note: — IPVanish is owned by Ziff Davis, PCMag.com's parent company. For more, see the ethics policy in our Editorial Mission Statement.
*Deals are selected by our commerce team
You've probably heard that a virtual private network is a key instrument in your privacy toolkit, but it's nearly impossible for the average person to determine what the best VPN is. That's where PCMag comes in. We've been reviewing VPNs for more than 10 years and writing about them for more than 25. Each year we review dozens of VPNs in adherence to rigorous testing guidelines and with strict dedication to independent and ethical journalism. Our expertise, testing, and ethical code are the only things that inform the selection of each product in this roundup.
So when our overall favorite, Proton VPN, gets not only an Editors' Choice but also a five-star rating (an honor we award only a few times a year, if at all), you can trust that it's a score we stand behind and one that you can rely on. That said, there are 10 other VPNs in this story, all of which are excellent in their own ways. See our top picks below, with links to the full reviews, followed by everything you need to know to determine which VPN is right for you.
Table of Contents
Proton VPN
Best Overall
Why We Picked It
Proton VPN does it all. It includes multi-hop connections and access to the Tor network via VPN, in addition to the usual VPN capabilities. It also sports a reimagined app interface for a pleasant user experience. While the core paid VPN service has a dead-on average price, it also has the best free VPN subscription we've yet seen.
The company behind Proton VPN recently revamped its entire product line. Now, an account with Proton VPN will also grant you access to other products in the Proton, including Proton Mail and Proton Drive. This includes free accounts. It's an excellent value-add. We are also impressed by its recently released Stealth feature, which is designed to provide additional security to particularly endangered users in countries like Iran and Russia. Proton VPN receives a rare 5-star rating.
Who It's For
Proton VPN is truly a strong overall option. Experienced users will find the features they're looking for, and first timers will find a straightforward experience. It has a great free option, and its paid subscriptions are still an excellent value despite a recent price increase.
PROS
- The best free VPN subscription
- Numerous advanced privacy tools
- Strong customer privacy stance
- Slick, accessible client
- Excellent speed test scores
CONS
- Awkward ChromeOS implementation
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Blocks Ads | |
| Simultaneous VPN Connections | 10 |
| 500+ Servers | |
| Server Locations | 67 countries |
| Geographically Diverse Servers | |
| Free Version | |
| Free Version Data Limit | Unlimited |
NordVPN
Best Premium Features
Why We Picked It
NordVPN has long taken a "kitchen sink" approach to its VPN and includes a little bit of everything. From the start, it has included features such as multi-hop connections and access to Tor over VPN, both of which are still rare among competitors. In the still-newish world of VPNs, NordVPN has also managed to set itself up as an established player that now buys other companies and adds entirely new products in addition to improving its VPN.
NordVPN has always been a solid product to use and has kept up a consistent and modern design across all its platforms. It's not afraid to change, however, being one of the first VPN companies to fully embrace the new WireGuard VPN protocol and RAM-only servers. All this comes at a price, though, as NordVPN charges quite a bit above the average monthly price we've seen across the industry.
Who It's For
NordVPN's greatest strength is that it has something to offer everyone. Privacy wonks appreciate its set of rare tools. People looking to access an otherwise blocked streaming service are empowered by NordVPN's large selection of servers and the ability to select server locations and even specific servers. First-time users should have no trouble getting started, and they may also be intrigued by NordVPN's growing list of additional services—including storage protected by encryption and a password manager.
PROS
- Multi-hop, split tunneling, and Tor connections
- Excellent design
- Traffic routing and file-sharing with Meshnet
- Built-in antivirus tools
CONS
- Expensive
- Lackluster malware-blocking results
- Limited utility of free Meshnet traffic routing
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Blocks Ads | |
| Simultaneous VPN Connections | 6 |
| 500+ Servers | |
| Server Locations | 111 Countries |
| Geographically Diverse Servers | |
| Free Version | |
| Free Version Data Limit | No Free Version |
Surfshark VPN
Best for Innovative Features
Why We Picked It
Surfshark is a relative newcomer, but it hit the ground running with a slick product that has iterated quickly. While it doesn't have all the features of its competitors, it does offer multi-hop connections and supports WireGuard. More interesting, though, are the innovative things Surfshark is doing behind the scenes, such as transforming its server fleet into a single network called Surfshark Nexus. This allows you to jump to a new VPN server without completely disconnecting. This, in turn, enables another cool feature, IP Rotator, which assigns you a new IP address periodically without ever breaking your connection.
Surfshark's blue color scheme and higher-than-average monthly cost invites comparison to another blue VPN: NordVPN. That company recently purchased Surfshark VPN, but both continue to operate independently. Surfshark VPN has also expanded and now offers antivirus protection at an additional cost.
Who It's For
Surfshark is a good all-around VPN, with its unlimited device protection, appealing app, and rich collection of privacy tools. But it will be especially interesting to those who are looking for cutting-edge features, not only for the privacy and flexibility they deliver but also because they are just plain cool.
PROS
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Large global server presence
- Multi-hop and split tunneling tools
- Intriguing potential in Surfshark Nexus
CONS
- High monthly price
- Some issues with IP rotator feature in testing
- Privacy policy needs clarification
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Blocks Ads | |
| Simultaneous VPN Connections | Unlimited |
| 500+ Servers | |
| Server Locations | 100 Countries |
| Geographically Diverse Servers | |
| Free Version | |
| Free Version Data Limit | No Free Version |
TunnelBear VPN
Best for First-Time VPN Users
Why We Picked It
It's easy to dismiss TunnelBear VPN with its funny bear-themed app, bright colors, and limited feature set. It lacks much of the muscle found amongst our top choices. But that does TunnelBear VPN a grave disservice. This VPN is extremely easy to use and features a limited free subscription option, making it an excellent choice for anyone unfamiliar with VPNs. TunnelBear VPN also has one of the most transparent audit processes in the industry, making it a name you really can trust.
Who It's For
TunnelBear VPN is a great choice for anyone new to VPNs, thanks to its simple and friendly interface. It's also a strong option for anyone who just needs a general purpose VPN and isn't going to fuss with network settings.
PROS
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Excellent privacy policies
- Annual independent audits
- Friendly, approachable design (with bears!)
CONS
- No multi-hop connections
- Split tunneling not available on all platforms
- Data limit on free subscription
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Blocks Ads | |
| Simultaneous VPN Connections | Unlimited |
| 500+ Servers | |
| Server Locations | 23 Countries |
| Geographically Diverse Servers | |
| Free Version | |
| Free Version Data Limit | 500MB - 1.5GB Per Month |
CyberGhost VPN
Best for Frequent Travelers
Why We Picked It
CyberGhost is a pricey but extremely capable VPN service with an enormous collection of servers. It worked well in testing and offers a generous seven simultaneous connections, antivirus protection, and an ad blocker, among other bonus features. We also like that Cyberghost has completed a third-party audit.
Who It's For
CyberGhost's large and widespread network of servers makes it a top choice for users who travel a lot. No matter where you find yourself in the world, there's a good chance there's a local server you can connect to, and local servers mean better average speeds and reduced latency.
PROS
- Large, well-distributed server fleet
- Allows up to seven simultaneous connections
- Several add-ons, including antivirus
- Outstanding speed test scores
- Newly completed third-party audit
CONS
- Expensive
- Confusing privacy policies
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Blocks Ads | |
| Simultaneous VPN Connections | 7 |
| 500+ Servers | |
| Server Locations | 90 Countries |
| Geographically Diverse Servers | |
| Free Version | |
| Free Version Data Limit | No Free Version |
ExpressVPN
Best for Global Location Spoofers
Why We Picked It
ExpressVPN's interface is particularly attractive, but that's not the only reason we like it. ExpressVPN also has a large presence in 94 countries, and thankfully very few of them are virtual servers. Instead of WireGuard, it offers its own Lightway VPN protocol, which uses the open-source wolfSSL cryptography library and has been subjected to a third-party audit.
Who It's For
With numerous server locations, ExpressVPN is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to spoof their location, whether it's to hide your IP address or to consume region-locked content (to watch your regular video-streaming accounts while traveling, to see Netflix shows that aren't available in your area, or to access to the BBC iPlayer outside the UK).
PROS
- Large, diversely distributed fleet of servers
- Strong privacy and security practices
- Split tunneling
- Stylish interface
CONS
- Expensive compared with VPNs with similar feature sets
- No multi-hop connections
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Blocks Ads | |
| Simultaneous VPN Connections | 5 |
| 500+ Servers | |
| Server Locations | 105 Countries |
| Geographically Diverse Servers | |
| Free Version | |
| Free Version Data Limit | No Free Version |
IPVanish VPN
Best for Multi-Device Households
Why We Picked It
Given that the average VPN protects five devices per subscription, VPNs like IPVanish that put no cap on the number of devices protected provide an invaluable service. Furthermore, IPVanish is among the top ten fastest VPNs we've tested, has impressive global server coverage, a good number of added features, and broad platform support.
Who It's For
Anyone predominately concerned about device count limits should have IPVanish near the top of their list. While its actual count of available servers could be higher and its price lower, IPVanish checks all the right boxes for those searching for a widely available VPN that protects all their devices.
(Note: IPVanish is owned by Ziff Davis, PCMag.com's parent company. For more, see the ethics policy in our Editorial Mission Statement.)
PROS
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Good geographic diversity of servers
- Transparent privacy policy
- Small impact on throughput speeds in our testing
CONS
- Expensive
- Free trial only offered on annual plans via mobile app stores
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Blocks Ads | |
| Simultaneous VPN Connections | Unlimited |
| 500+ Servers | |
| Server Locations | 52 Countries |
| Geographically Diverse Servers | |
| Free Version | |
| Free Version Data Limit | No Free Version |
PureVPN
Best for Streaming Enthusiasts
Why We Picked It
PureVPN has a lot to love inside its snazzy, beautifully designed package. It's fast, has a ton of servers around the world, plenty of add-ons, a transparent privacy policy, and excellent results unblocking Netflix, all of which make it an appealing, well-rounded VPN.
Who It's For
PureVPN's global Netflix compatibility, massive list of servers to choose from, and excellent scores in our speed tests make it an ideal choice for privacy-conscious users who stream a lot of video. Its pricing structure is a bit convoluted, but once you've paid, you'll find this VPN a pleasure to use.
PROS
- Geographically diverse servers
- Quick upload and download speeds in our testing
- Smart, snazzy client design
- Globally unblocked Netflix
- Numerous, affordable add-ons
- Transparent privacy policy
CONS
- Confusing pricing
- Unclear where virtual servers are located
- Few additional privacy features
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Blocks Ads | |
| Simultaneous VPN Connections | 10 |
| 500+ Servers | |
| Server Locations | 139 Countries |
| Geographically Diverse Servers | |
| Free Version | |
| Free Version Data Limit | No Free Version |
Mullvad VPN
Best for Bargain Hunters
Why We Picked It
As we said above: Mullvad VPN and IVPN share two unique features: a privacy-protecting account system and the ability to purchase the service with anonymous cash payments. Mullvad VPN goes further than IVPN, however. Mullvad VPN no longer accepts recurring payments, meaning that they know nothing about their customers. Mullvad VPN is also radically transparent, giving customers an enormous amount of information about how their service works. Best of, Mullvad VPN is flat rate and extremely affordable—just 5 Euro ($5.09 at time of writing) per month.
Who It's For
Mullvad VPN's service is all about knowing as little about its customers as possible, and that does come with some drawbacks. It also doesn't have the best interface we've seen. But it's a great price for an excellent service that packs all the features of the best VPNs on the market.
PROS
- Affordable
- Requires no email or account information
- Radically transparent
- Multi-hop, split tunneling, and port forwarding
CONS
- Awkward desktop interface
- Servers in a small range of countries
- Pay-as-you-go system may confuse some customers
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Blocks Ads | |
| Simultaneous VPN Connections | 5 |
| 500+ Servers | |
| Server Locations | 38 Countries |
| Geographically Diverse Servers | |
| Free Version | |
| Free Version Data Limit | No Free Version |
IVPN
Best Transparency Policy
Why We Picked It
IVPN has a few important privacy-related features that we find impressive. First, it uses a privacy-protecting account number system that requires very little personal information. Second, it accepts untraceable cash payments sent directly to its HQ. Mullvad is one of the few VPNs that can match it thus far. IVPN goes beyond the competition, however, with its strong stance on transparency, releasing the results of audits and presenting as much information as possible about how customer information is handled and how the company works to protect its users' privacy.
Who It's For
IVPN will appeal to people who are keen to reveal as little about themselves as possible and want a VPN company that is firmly dedicated to doing the same. Furthermore, some of IVPN's advanced features—such as its multi-hop connectivity and use of the new WireGuard protocol—are sure to appeal to anyone who wants tight control of their network security.
PROS
- Flexible, affordable pricing
- Powerful multi-hop system
- Privacy is baked into its account system
- Strong stance on transparency
CONS
- Offers few server locations
- Multi-hop and account ID features might confuse some
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Blocks Ads | |
| Simultaneous VPN Connections | 7 |
| 500+ Servers | |
| Server Locations | 32 Countries |
| Geographically Diverse Servers | |
| Free Version | |
| Free Version Data Limit | No Free Version |
Hide.me VPN
Best Free VPN
Why We Picked It
Hide.me VPN is a bit of an all-rounder, offering a compelling price alongside a user-friendly client and server distribution that would make lesser services blush. Plus, if you're new to VPNs, the free Hide.me client is on par with some of the better for-pay options we've reviewed.
Who It's For
If you're on a tight budget, tepid about VPNs, or unsure if using one will protect you in the way you need on your network, Hide.me is an excellent choice. By not requiring a credit card to sign up or use the service, all you need is an email address, and you can encrypt your connection for up to 2GB per month. If you decide you like the service and want to get more VPN protection than the free tier offers, Hide.me's premium plan still costs less than average, at $9.95 per month.
PROS
- Ten simultaneous connections
- Good server distribution
- Strong speed test scores
- Supports anonymous payments
- Affordable
CONS
- Speed limitations on free tier
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Blocks Ads | |
| Simultaneous VPN Connections | 10 |
| 500+ Servers | |
| Server Locations | 89 |
| Geographically Diverse Servers | |
| Free Version | |
| Free Version Data Limit | 10GB Per Month |
Is a VPN Worth Getting?
The simple answer to whether you need a VPN is yes. Using a VPN is a simple way to protect your privacy online and can help circumvent unwanted internet restrictions, too. None of the services listed here is perfect, and there will surely be times when using a VPN won't make sense. All that said, a VPN is undoubtedly a valuable tool. It's well worth having one in your personal security toolbox.
Why Do I Need a VPN?
A VPN routes your internet traffic through an encrypted connection to a server controlled by the VPN provider. From there, your traffic exits onto the web as usual. If you only connect to websites secured with HTTPS, your data remains encrypted, even after leaving the VPN. It sounds simple, but VPN usage can improve your online privacy.
Think of this analogy: When your car pulls out of your driveway, someone can follow you and see where you're going, how long you spend there, and when you return. They might even peek into your car to learn more about you. With a VPN app, it's like driving from your house into a private tunnel, exiting into a closed parking garage, switching to a different car, and driving out. No one who is trying to follow you can know where you went.
Likewise, no one snooping around your network can see what you're doing when you use a VPN connection. Convenient public Wi-Fi networks are also convenient for attackers. How do you know, for example, "starbucks_wifi-real" is the coffee shop's actual Wi-Fi network? A prank popular among security researchers is to create a network with the same name as a free, popular service and see how many devices automatically connect.
VPNs protect your data using a variety of publicly available and proprietary encryption protocols, including OpenVPN, WireGuard, L2TP, IKEv2, and others.
Even if you're trusting, you might not want to trust your internet service provider (ISP). In the US, your ISP has enormous insight into your online activities. To make matters worse, congress has decided your ISP is allowed to sell your anonymized browsing history. Selling your data seems egregious since you are already paying for the service. A VPN prevents even your ISP from keeping tabs on you.
Another benefit of using a VPN is that your true IP address is hidden behind the address of the VPN server. This makes it harder to track you. Even dedicated observers have trouble telling which internet traffic is yours because your data is mixed in with everyone else's using the server.
Hiding your IP address has another benefit: It makes it harder for snoops to figure out your location. You can use this to your advantage and connect to distant VPN servers to spoof your location.
It's important to understand that if your VPN connection goes down, the privacy protection you rely on goes with it. For this reason, most VPNs offer a kill switch, which shuts off your network traffic when your VPN connection drops. The only catch? A kill switch is generally turned off by default, so you might want to toggle yours on in your VPN app when you set it up—or at least familiarize yourself with how it works and turn it on when your privacy is critically important. You can read more about this essential security feature in our kill switch explainer.
Note: VPNs are sometimes confused with proxies, but they are not the same thing. To learn more, see our explainer on VPNs vs. proxies.
What Can't VPNs Do?
VPN services, while helpful, don't provide every kind of threat protection. A VPN can't help you if you download ransomware nor if you give up your data in a phishing attack. We strongly recommend using local antivirus software, enabling multi-factor authentication wherever available, and using a password manager to create and store unique, complex passwords for each site and service you use. Those are all good security measures you should take in addition to using a VPN.
