With increasing concerns over online privacy, security threats, and the growing demand for unrestricted access to geo-blocked content, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have become essential tools for internet users worldwide. Whether you are looking to protect your personal data, unblock content on streaming services like Netflix or Hulu, or ensure secure browsing on public Wi-Fi networks, choosing the right VPN can significantly enhance your online experience.
In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the best VPNs of 2024, breaking down their features, performance, pricing, and suitability for different use cases. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of which VPN is the best fit for your needs, whether you prioritize privacy, speed, streaming, or affordability.
What is a VPN and Why Do You Need One?
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a service that encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through a secure server, masking your IP address and location. This process ensures that your online activities are kept private and secure from prying eyes, including hackers, your internet service provider (ISP), and government surveillance.
Here are a few of the key benefits of using a VPN:
1. Privacy and Anonymity
VPNs protect your identity by masking your IP address and encrypting your online data. This means that websites, advertisers, and even your ISP cannot easily track your browsing activity or identify your true location.
2. Security on Public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi networks are notorious for being insecure, making them easy targets for hackers. A VPN encrypts your connection on public networks, ensuring that your personal data, such as login credentials or banking information, remains secure.
3. Bypassing Geo-Restrictions
Many streaming platforms, websites, and online services restrict content based on your geographic location. A VPN allows you to change your virtual location by connecting to a server in another country, giving you access to geo-restricted content such as Netflix libraries, BBC iPlayer, or live sports events.
4. Avoiding ISP Throttling
Some ISPs intentionally slow down your internet connection when they detect data-heavy activities like streaming or torrenting. A VPN hides your online activity from your ISP, preventing them from throttling your bandwidth.
Whether you’re looking to unblock international content, stay safe while browsing on public Wi-Fi, or ensure complete privacy online, a VPN is an invaluable tool in today’s digital landscape.
How to Choose the Best VPN
Choosing the right VPN can be a daunting task with so many options available, each boasting different features and strengths. To find the VPN that best suits your needs, it’s important to consider the following factors:
1. Speed and Performance
A good VPN should provide fast, stable connections with minimal speed drops, especially when streaming or gaming. Look for VPNs with optimized servers for high-speed performance, especially if you plan to use the VPN for bandwidth-heavy activities like HD/4K streaming or large file downloads.
2. Security Features
The primary purpose of a VPN is to provide security and privacy. A top-notch VPN should offer advanced security features, including AES-256 encryption, a kill switch (which ensures your data stays protected if the VPN connection drops), DNS and IP leak protection, and multihop (routing traffic through multiple servers for added security).
3. Server Network
The more servers a VPN offers, the more flexibility you’ll have to access content from different regions and ensure fast connection speeds. A wide geographic distribution of servers is essential for bypassing geo-restrictions and reducing server congestion.
4. No-Logs Policy
A strict no-logs policy ensures that the VPN provider does not collect or store any information about your online activities. This is especially important for privacy-focused users, as it prevents data from being handed over to governments or third parties.
5. Unblocking Capabilities
If you plan to use the VPN for streaming, make sure it can reliably unblock popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video. Not all VPNs can bypass the geo-blocks and VPN detection systems used by these services.
6. Device Compatibility
Ensure that the VPN you choose supports all the devices you plan to use it on, whether it’s Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, or even more niche platforms like smart TVs, gaming consoles, and routers.
7. Pricing
While most top-tier VPNs are paid services, prices can vary significantly. Consider your budget and the features you’re willing to pay for. Some VPNs offer excellent long-term subscription discounts, while others may provide free plans with limited features.
The 10 Best VPNs of 2024
Based on a combination of speed, security, streaming performance, and pricing, here are the 10 best VPNs for 2024:
1. ExpressVPN
- Speed: Fast and consistent
- Servers: 3,000+ servers in 94 countries
- Streaming: Unblocks Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video
- Security: AES-256 encryption, TrustedServer technology (RAM-only servers), kill switch, split tunneling
- Simultaneous Connections: 5 devices
- Price: Starting at $6.67/month (12-month plan with 3 free months)
- Why it’s great: ExpressVPN is widely regarded as the best all-around VPN, offering fast speeds, excellent security, and reliable access to streaming services. It also boasts TrustedServer technology, which ensures that no user data is stored on its servers, and it’s based in the British Virgin Islands, a jurisdiction with strong privacy protections. Its apps are user-friendly, and it offers excellent customer support, including 24/7 live chat.
2. NordVPN
- Speed: Excellent, especially with NordLynx protocol
- Servers: 5,500+ servers in 60 countries
- Streaming: Unblocks Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video
- Security: AES-256 encryption, kill switch, Double VPN, onion over VPN, NordLynx protocol
- Simultaneous Connections: 6 devices
- Price: Starting at $3.29/month (2-year plan)
- Why it’s great: NordVPN is a security-focused VPN with a reputation for excellent privacy features. Its Double VPN and onion over VPN options provide additional layers of encryption, making it an excellent choice for users in highly censored countries or privacy advocates. NordVPN’s proprietary NordLynx protocol, based on WireGuard, offers lightning-fast speeds without compromising security.
3. Surfshark
- Speed: Fast, with optimized servers for streaming
- Servers: 3,200+ servers in 100 countries
- Streaming: Unblocks Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video
- Security: AES-256 encryption, kill switch, split tunneling, MultiHop (double VPN)
- Simultaneous Connections: Unlimited devices
- Price: Starting at $2.49/month (2-year plan)
- Why it’s great: Surfshark offers the best value for money, with unlimited simultaneous connections on one subscription. Despite its budget pricing, it doesn’t compromise on speed or security. Surfshark’s ability to unblock most streaming services, along with its MultiHop feature for extra security, makes it a top choice for families or users with many devices.
4. CyberGhost
- Speed: Fast, with streaming-optimized servers
- Servers: 9,000+ servers in 91 countries
- Streaming: Unblocks Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video
- Security: AES-256 encryption, kill switch, NoSpy servers, split tunneling
- Simultaneous Connections: 7 devices
- Price: Starting at $2.19/month (2-year plan)
- Why it’s great: CyberGhost is known for its user-friendly interface and dedicated servers for streaming, torrenting, and gaming. Its NoSpy servers (operated by CyberGhost and located in Romania) offer enhanced security, and its 24/7 live chat support is one of the most responsive in the industry. CyberGhost’s large server network ensures smooth performance even on congested servers.
5. Private Internet Access (PIA)
- Speed: Good, with minimal speed loss on most servers
- Servers: 35,000+ servers in 84 countries
- Streaming: Unblocks Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video
- Security: AES-256 encryption, kill switch, split tunneling, customizable encryption levels
- Simultaneous Connections: 10 devices
- Price: Starting at $2.19/month (3-year plan)
- Why it’s great: PIA is well known for its extensive server network and customizable security features, allowing users to adjust their encryption levels for a balance between speed and security. It also offers port forwarding for advanced users, and its transparent privacy policy is a huge plus for privacy-conscious users. PIA is also one of the most affordable VPNs with high performance.
6. IPVanish
- Speed: Fast and reliable, especially for U.S.-based servers
- Servers: 2,000+ servers in 75+ countries
- Streaming: Unblocks Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video
- Security: AES-256 encryption, kill switch, zero-logs policy
- Simultaneous Connections: Unlimited devices
- Price: Starting at $3.99/month (1-year plan)
- Why it’s great: IPVanish is a great option for users who need unlimited simultaneous connections, particularly for large households or users with multiple devices. While its server count is smaller than some competitors, IPVanish provides solid performance and excellent privacy features, including a strict zero-logs policy.
7. ProtonVPN
- Speed: Fast, with no bandwidth limits on paid plans
- Servers: 6,500+ servers in 110 countries
- Streaming: Unblocks Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video (on paid plans)
- Security: AES-256 encryption, kill switch, Secure Core (multi-hop), Tor over VPN, no-logs policy
- Simultaneous Connections: 10 devices (on paid plans)
- Price: Free plan available; premium plans start at $4.99/month
- Why it’s great: ProtonVPN is developed by the team behind ProtonMail, known for their commitment to privacy. ProtonVPN offers a free plan with unlimited bandwidth (though with limited server access and slower speeds) and strong security features like Secure Core, which routes traffic through multiple servers for added privacy. ProtonVPN is a top choice for users prioritizing privacy and security.
8. Windscribe
- Speed: Fast, with no bandwidth throttling
- Servers: Servers in over 60 countries
- Streaming: Unblocks Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video
- Security: AES-256 encryption, kill switch, split tunneling, Secure.link feature
- Simultaneous Connections: Unlimited devices
- Price: Free plan available with 10GB/month; premium plan starts at $4.08/month (1-year plan)
- Why it’s great: Windscribe is a versatile VPN with a generous free plan and a powerful paid option. It supports unlimited simultaneous connections and is particularly good for privacy thanks to features like R.O.B.E.R.T., a customizable ad and tracker blocker. Windscribe is perfect for users who want a balance between a good free option and a feature-rich premium plan.
9. Hotspot Shield
- Speed: Excellent speeds with Catapult Hydra protocol
- Servers: 1,800+ servers in 80 countries
- Streaming: Unblocks Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video
- Security: AES-256 encryption, kill switch, zero-logs policy
- Simultaneous Connections: 5 devices
- Price: Free plan with 500MB/day; premium plan starts at $7.99/month (3-year plan)
- Why it’s great: Hotspot Shield is known for its Catapult Hydra protocol, which offers some of the fastest VPN speeds on the market. While the free plan is limited in data usage, the premium plan unlocks fast speeds, excellent streaming capabilities, and solid security. Hotspot Shield is a good choice for users who prioritize speed, especially for HD streaming and gaming.
10. TunnelBear
- Speed: Good for browsing and streaming on nearby servers
- Servers: Servers in 47 countries
- Streaming: Unblocks Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video (on paid plans)
- Security: AES-256 encryption, kill switch, GhostBear (anti-censorship feature)
- Simultaneous Connections: 5 devices
- Price: Free plan with 500MB/month; premium plan starts at $3.33/month (3-year plan)
- Why it’s great: TunnelBear is known for its user-friendly interface and fun, bear-themed design. While it may not have the most extensive server network, TunnelBear’s GhostBear feature helps bypass censorship in restrictive countries. The free plan is limited in data but provides a great way for users to test the service.
Best VPNs for Streaming
For users who primarily want a VPN to access geo-blocked content on platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+, speed and reliable unblocking capabilities are essential. Here are the best VPNs for streaming in 2024:
1. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN consistently tops the list for streaming thanks to its fast speeds, wide server coverage, and MediaStreamer DNS feature, which allows users to unblock content on devices that don’t natively support VPNs, such as Apple TV and gaming consoles. It reliably unblocks multiple Netflix libraries, as well as BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and Disney+.
2. NordVPN
NordVPN’s SmartPlay technology makes it one of the best VPNs for streaming. It can unblock Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and other popular platforms, and its NordLynx protocol ensures fast speeds for HD and 4K streaming.
3. Surfshark
Surfshark offers a budget-friendly option for streaming, allowing users to access Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and more with its MultiHop feature for added privacy. With unlimited device connections, it’s perfect for families who want to stream across multiple devices.
4. CyberGhost
CyberGhost is particularly well-suited for streaming, thanks to its dedicated streaming servers optimized for platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and Disney+. It also provides stable connections and buffer-free performance, even on distant servers.
5. Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield’s Catapult Hydra protocol delivers excellent speeds, making it one of the fastest VPNs for streaming. It reliably unblocks major platforms, and its performance is ideal for streaming HD and 4K content without buffering.
Best VPNs for Privacy and Security
For users prioritizing security and privacy, features like strong encryption, a no-logs policy, and advanced security protocols are essential. Here are the best VPNs for privacy and security in 2024:
1. NordVPN
NordVPN offers several advanced security features, including Double VPN, which routes traffic through two servers for extra encryption, and onion over VPN, which combines the Tor network with the VPN for maximum anonymity. NordVPN’s no-logs policy has been independently audited, making it a top choice for privacy.
2. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN’s TrustedServer technology ensures that all servers run on RAM, meaning no data is ever written to a hard drive, reducing the risk of data being stored. Its no-logs policy has been verified by independent audits, and it offers AES-256 encryption, making it a highly secure choice.
3. ProtonVPN
Developed by the team behind ProtonMail, ProtonVPN is dedicated to privacy. Its Secure Core feature routes traffic through multiple servers to protect against network attacks, and its no-logs policy ensures that no user data is stored. ProtonVPN also supports Tor over VPN for added security.
4. Private Internet Access (PIA)
PIA is known for its transparency and commitment to privacy. It offers customizable encryption settings, a strict no-logs policy, and port forwarding for advanced security. PIA is ideal for users who want control over their privacy settings.
5. TunnelBear
While TunnelBear is user-friendly and fun, it also takes privacy seriously with its GhostBear feature, which helps bypass censorship and avoid VPN detection in restrictive regions. TunnelBear’s privacy policies have also been audited, making it a secure choice.
Best Budget VPNs
If you’re looking for a VPN that balances affordability with strong features, there are several excellent budget options available:
1. Surfshark
At just $2.49/month on its 2-year plan, Surfshark offers incredible value for money with unlimited simultaneous connections, fast speeds, and strong security. It’s ideal for users who want premium features at an affordable price.
2. CyberGhost
CyberGhost’s $2.19/month 2-year plan makes it one of the most affordable premium VPNs available. It offers an extensive server network, dedicated streaming servers, and excellent privacy features.
3. Private Internet Access (PIA)
PIA’s $2.19/month 3-year plan is one of the cheapest long-term options, and with 10 simultaneous connections and strong security features, it’s an excellent choice for budget-conscious users.
4. Windscribe
Windscribe’s free plan (with 10GB/month) offers decent performance, while its premium plan starts at just $4.08/month. Windscribe is a great option for users looking for a balance between free and affordable premium features.
5. TunnelBear
TunnelBear’s free plan offers 500MB/month, which is limited but enough for users who need a VPN for light browsing. Its premium plan starts at $3.33/month, making it a great budget option for users who want a simple, secure VPN.
Are Free VPNs Worth It?
While free VPNs may be tempting, they come with significant limitations and potential security risks. Many free VPNs impose data caps, limited server access, and slow speeds, making them unsuitable for activities like streaming, gaming, or torrenting.
Moreover, some free VPN providers engage in questionable practices, such as selling user data to third parties or serving ads based on user activity. If you value privacy and security, it’s generally recommended to invest in a premium VPN service. However, some free plans, like those offered by ProtonVPN, Windscribe, and TunnelBear, are more trustworthy and can be useful for light browsing or short-term needs.
How to Set Up a VPN
Setting up a VPN is typically a straightforward process. Here’s how to get started:
1. Choose a VPN: Select one of the VPNs from our list based on your specific needs.
2. Sign Up and Download the App: Go to the VPN provider’s website, sign up for a plan, and download the app for your device.
3. Install the VPN App: Follow the installation instructions provided by the VPN service. This usually involves downloading and installing the app from the website or app store.
4. Log In: Open the VPN app and log in using your account credentials.
5. Connect to a Server: Choose a server from the list based on your location preferences. For example, if you want to access U.S. Netflix, choose a U.S. server.
6. Enjoy Secure Browsing: Once connected, your internet traffic will be encrypted, and you can browse securely or access geo-restricted content.
Conclusion
Choosing the best VPN in 2024 depends on your specific needs—whether it’s streaming, privacy, or budget considerations. ExpressVPN and NordVPN stand out as top choices for their performance, security features, and ability to unblock streaming services. Surfshark and CyberGhost offer excellent value for money, while ProtonVPN and TunnelBear are great options for users focused on privacy.
Ultimately, the best VPN is one that aligns with your priorities, offering the right balance of speed, security, privacy, and affordability. With this guide, you’re now equipped to make an informed decision and find the VPN that’s perfect for you in 2024.