#1
NordVPN
Best overall VPN
9.5
/ 10
Fast, secure and easy to use. A strong all-round VPN for privacy, streaming and everyday browsing.
- ✓Excellent speeds
- ✓Strong privacy
- ✓6,000+ servers
Privacy & Security
The best VPNs for online privacy.
We compare VPN services to help you find a faster, safer and more private way to browse the internet.
Our recommendations
Best VPNs in 2026
Our top picks for privacy, security, speed and everyday browsing.
#2
Surfshark
Best value VPN
9.2
/ 10
A powerful VPN with excellent value and unlimited simultaneous connections.
- ✓Unlimited devices
- ✓Great value
- ✓Strong security
#3
Proton VPN
Best for privacy
9.0
/ 10
Privacy-focused VPN from the creators of Proton Mail, with a strong commitment to security.
- ✓Privacy focused
- ✓Open source
- ✓Free plan available
Why privacy matters
Why use a VPN?
Your internet connection reveals more information than you might realize. A VPN can add an extra layer of privacy and security to your everyday browsing.
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Hide your IP address
A VPN replaces your public IP address with the address of the VPN server you connect to.
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Secure your connection
VPN encryption can help protect your internet traffic, particularly when you're connected to public Wi-Fi.
⌁
Reduce online tracking
Hiding your IP address can make it harder for websites and services to associate your activity with your home connection.
Our approach
How we choose VPNs
Choosing a VPN shouldn't come down to marketing claims alone. We look at the features that matter most when comparing privacy and security services.
Privacy
Privacy policies, logging practices and available privacy features.
Security
Encryption, security features and the technologies used to protect connections.
Performance
Connection speeds, reliability and the overall browsing experience.
Value
Features, pricing and the value provided by each service.
Frequently asked questions
VPN questions answered
What is a VPN?+
A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, creates an encrypted connection between your device and a VPN server. This can help protect your internet traffic from being easily monitored and can hide your real IP address from websites and online services.
Why should I use a VPN?+
A VPN can add an extra layer of privacy when browsing the internet, especially when using public Wi-Fi. It can also help prevent websites and other third parties from seeing your real IP address.
Does a VPN make me completely anonymous?+
No. A VPN can improve your online privacy, but it does not make you completely anonymous. Websites can still identify you through accounts, cookies, browser fingerprinting and other technologies.
Are VPNs legal?+
VPNs are legal in most countries, although the laws and restrictions can vary. Using a VPN does not make illegal activity legal, so you should always follow the laws that apply where you live.
Which VPN is best?+
There is no single VPN that is perfect for everyone. We currently rank NordVPN as our best overall choice, while Surfshark is a strong option for value and Proton VPN is particularly attractive for privacy-focused users.
Take control of your online privacy.
Compare the leading VPN services and choose the one that fits your privacy and security needs.
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