Having a VPN (Virtual Private Network) app on your devices is a great first step in protecting your online privacy. But not all VPNs are created equal. The best ones not only hide your IP address but also offer strict no-log policies, strong encryption, DNS leak protection, and a reliable kill switch to prevent data spills if the connection drops.
On the flip side, poor-quality VPNs log your data, skimp on security, and may even sell your browsing habits to advertisers. Free VPNs are often the riskiest, filled with trackers and insecure features. Many so-called “best VPN” lists are even paid promotions, often recommending services that aren’t truly the best for users. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of six VPNs worth trying and five to avoid based on expert recommendations and research.
Try: Mullvad VPN
Mullvad VPN stands out for its commitment to privacy—unlike others, it has no affiliate program, which means it relies solely on user trust. With a straightforward monthly fee of €5 (around $6), you can enjoy a range of features without hidden costs. Notably, you don’t need to provide an email address to sign up, and you can even pay in cash or cryptocurrency. Its RAM-only servers, strong no-log policy, and useful Lockdown Mode make it a top choice for privacy enthusiasts, though it may struggle with streaming services.
Try: Proton VPN
Proton VPN offers an impressive free version with no data caps, a rare find among free VPN services. Thanks to its strict no-logs policy and solid encryption, it is a favorite among users looking for security without spending a dime. It does have fewer servers available in its free plan, and speeds may fluctuate during peak times. For a monthly fee of $9.99, you can upgrade to a paid plan which allows for more connections and boosts speed.
Try: Surfshark
If you’re on a budget, Surfshark is a great value, offering features typically found in higher-priced VPNs. At around $1.99 per month for a two-year plan, Surfshark provides robust encryption and the ability to connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously. However, be mindful that it’s based in the Netherlands, which could raise privacy concerns for some users due to its alliance with intelligence-sharing countries.
Try: NordVPN
NordVPN is perfect for streaming high-quality content. After rigorous testing, its superior speeds and ability to unblock popular platforms like Netflix and BBC iPlayer stood out. With over 9,000 servers and a variety of features, including dark web monitoring and a kill switch, it’s a solid choice for users looking for both speed and security.
Try: ExpressVPN
Known for reliability and speed, ExpressVPN is a go-to for travelers needing consistent performance across various devices. Its lack of data leaks and fast reconnection times make it a trustworthy option. While it does come at a slightly higher cost, its dedicated apps across major platforms make it accessible.
Try: Windscribe
Windscribe is user-friendly and includes features like content filtering, making it an excellent choice for parents concerned about online content. While its free version has a data cap, the paid plan at just $5.75 per month offers a fair price for a decent VPN service.
Avoid: Turbo VPN
Turbo VPN may be popular with millions of downloads, but it’s riddled with trust issues. Based in Singapore, it has questionable data handling practices and admits to sharing user data with advertisers. Experts warn that using Turbo VPN might expose your data rather than protect it.
Avoid: Opera VPN
Opera’s VPN is not a true VPN; it only protects traffic within its browser. Given its logging practices and shortcomings in protecting user data, it’s advisable to steer clear.
Avoid: HMA VPN
HMA has a troubled history of cooperating with authorities, raising significant privacy concerns. Its average speed and lack of strong performance in streaming make it unworthy of your trust and investment.
Avoid: Hola VPN
Hola VPN has a notorious reputation for selling users’ bandwidth to third parties, leading to serious privacy risks. This kind of operation poses significant threats to users who could unknowingly be involved in illegal activities through their IP address.
Avoid: Psiphon
Psiphon has severe issues with DNS leaks and collects user data, compromising your privacy. While it may help in bypassing censorship, it should not be relied upon for secure browsing.
Choosing the right VPN can enhance your online experience and safeguard your data. Always check user feedback and expert reviews before making a decision, especially in a market filled with both valuable services and potential threats.
