Best VPN Recommendations (For All Devices)

Whether you’re a professional who needs to securely handle your banking on a cafe’s public Wi-Fi, or simply a conscious internet user wanting to keep your digital footprint a bit more private… our paths inevitably cross with VPNs at some point.

So, what do these three magic letters (VPN) actually mean? Why has using a VPN become almost a necessity? And more importantly, with hundreds of options on the market, which one is the best for you?

In this article, we will answer all these questions in a sincere and understandable language. Then, we will take a deep dive into the world’s best, most preferred, and most up-to-date VPN services that you can use with peace of mind on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android platforms.

What is a VPN in the Simplest Terms, and Why Do You Need One?

Let’s explain it in the most straightforward way, without drowning you in technical jargon. A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is a technology that creates a private tunnel for you by encrypting your internet connection.

Think of it this way: When you connect to the internet, your data is like a convertible car traveling on a highway. Everyone on the road (your internet service provider, hackers, even government agencies) can see what’s inside the car and where you’re going.

This is where a VPN comes in. It takes your internet traffic from this open-top car and transfers it into a private, armored limousine with tinted windows. This limousine travels to a private garage (a VPN server) in another city (or even another country) of your choosing, and only then does it get back on the road. By doing this:

• Your Data is Encrypted: Just like in the armored limousine analogy, all your internet traffic is protected with military-grade encryption. This means that outsiders will only see a meaningless jumble of characters. It keeps your banking information, passwords, and private messages safe, even on public Wi-Fi networks.

• Your IP Address is Hidden: Your real IP address (think of it as your home address on the internet) is hidden and replaced with the IP address of the VPN server you connect to. This way, websites and online services cannot see your real location.

• Geo-Restrictions are Bypassed: Want to access a website that’s unavailable in your country or a series/movie that’s only streamed in specific regions? With a VPN, you can connect to a server in that country, browse the internet as if you were there, and eliminate all geographical barriers.

• Your Internet Service Provider Can’t Track You: Under normal circumstances, your Internet Service Provider (ISP) sees all the sites you visit and your online activities. When you use a VPN, your ISP only sees an encrypted data stream and cannot understand its content or destination.

In short, a VPN offers you a shield of security, privacy, and freedom in the digital world. Now that we know the answer to “Why?”, let’s get to the answer to “Which one?”.

The World’s Best VPN Recommendations

We’ve conducted in-depth market research, analyzed user reviews, and compared performance tests. Here are the most popular and reliable VPN services that cater to different needs and budgets!

1. ExpressVPN: The Undisputed King of Speed and Security

If you’re saying, “I want the best, budget is a secondary concern,” then the answer you’re looking for is most likely ExpressVPN. Maintaining its top position in the industry for years, this service is unrivaled, especially in speed and ease of use.

• Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Routers, Smart TVs

• Pros:
  • Lightning-Fast Connection: Thanks to their proprietary Lightway protocol, you’ll experience almost no drop in your internet speed even when connected to the VPN. Perfect for streaming 4K video and online gaming.
  • User-Friendly Interface: With its one-click connect feature and extremely simple apps, it’s child’s play even for those who aren’t tech-savvy.
  • Vast Server Network: Offers thousands of servers in 105 countries, allowing you to virtually travel all over the world.
  • Robust Security: Keeps your security at the highest level with AES-256 bit encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and TrustedServer technology (servers run on RAM, meaning all data is wiped with every reboot).
  • Excellent Customer Support: You can get instant help for any issue with their 24/7 live chat support.

• Cons:
  • Price: It is one of the more expensive options on the market.
  • Simultaneous Connections: Offers fewer simultaneous connections (8 devices) compared to some rivals.

• Ideal For: Users who don’t want to compromise on speed, security, or ease of use, have a larger budget, and are new to VPNs.

2. NordVPN: The Feature-Packed Security Fortress

NordVPN is ExpressVPN’s biggest competitor, especially with its security-focused extra features and competitive pricing. It’s like a Swiss Army knife for those who say, “my security is paramount.”

• Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Android TV

• Pros:
  • Double VPN: Adds an extra layer of security by routing your internet traffic through two different servers instead of one.
  • Threat Protection: It’s not just a VPN, but also a shield that blocks malware, trackers, and ads.
  • High Speed: Delivers extremely high speeds thanks to its proprietary NordLynx protocol (based on WireGuard).
  • Large Server Network: Offers a wide geographical spread with over 8,000 servers in more than 110 countries.
  • Onion Over VPN: Combines the anonymity of the Tor network with the security of a VPN.

• Cons:
  • Interface: The map-based interface can be a bit complex for some users.
  • Renewal Prices: Renewal prices can increase significantly after the initial subscription period.

• Ideal For: Tech enthusiasts who place extra importance on their online security, want to get rid of ads and trackers, and wish to benefit from a rich feature set.

3. Surfshark: The Price/Performance Champion

If you’re thinking, “I want quality that doesn’t break the bank, and I want to use it on all my devices,” then Surfshark was made for you. It’s perfect for families and users with many devices, thanks to its unlimited device support and affordable price.

• Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Fire TV

• Pros:
  • Unlimited Simultaneous Connections: You can use it on as many devices (phone, tablet, computer, TV) as you want simultaneously with a single subscription. This feature sets it apart from its competitors.
  • Budget-Friendly: Offers incredibly affordable prices, especially on long-term plans.
  • CleanWeb: Has an effective feature that blocks ads, trackers, and malicious sites.
  • MultiHop: Similar to NordVPN’s Double VPN, it routes your traffic through multiple servers.
  • Easy to Use: Very user-friendly with a clean and straightforward interface.

• Cons:
  • Speed: While its speed is generally very good, it may not be as consistent on the most distant servers as ExpressVPN or NordVPN.

• Ideal For: The most logical choice for those with many devices, families, students, and users who want the best performance on a limited budget.

4. CyberGhost: The Favorite of Streaming and Torrenting Fans

CyberGhost stands out with its servers optimized for specific purposes and its generous money-back guarantee. Its interface is so simple that even those taking their first step into the VPN world will have no trouble.

• Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVs

• Pros:
  • Optimized Servers: Features servers specifically configured for platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, or for torrenting and online gaming. This allows you to get the best performance with a single click.
  • Massive Server Network: Boasts one of the largest networks in the industry with over 11,000 servers in 100 countries.
  • User-Friendly: Extremely easy to use with its “Best Server Location” button and clear categorization.
  • 45-Day Money-Back Guarantee: While most competitors offer 30 days, CyberGhost gives you a full 45 days to try the service.

• Cons:
  • Lack of Deep Settings: It may not offer as many detailed configuration options as NordVPN for expert users.

• Ideal For: A fantastic option for users looking for a VPN primarily for streaming shows/movies and torrenting, as well as for those who are not very tech-savvy and want a simple, effective solution.

5. ProtonVPN: The Swiss Defender of Privacy and Transparency

Developed by scientists at CERN, ProtonVPN is the product of the team behind the secure email service ProtonMail. This service is extremely sensitive about privacy and transparency and is protected by Switzerland’s strict privacy laws.

• Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux

• Pros:
  • Excellent Free Plan: Offers the only reliable free VPN plan on the market with no data limits. Although speed is limited and there are fewer server options, it’s great for basic use.
  • High-Security Focus: Its Secure Core architecture routes your traffic through multiple servers in privacy-friendly countries like Switzerland and Iceland before it leaves the network.
  • Open-Source and Audited: All its applications are open-source and have undergone independent security audits.
  • NetShield: An effective ad, tracker, and malware blocker.

• Cons:
  • Price of Paid Plans: Its paid plans can be slightly more expensive than its competitors.
  • Customer Support: Live chat support may not be as responsive as others.

• Ideal For: The best choice for those who prioritize their online privacy above all else, journalists, activists, and anyone looking for a trustworthy free VPN.

6. Private Internet Access (PIA): Customization and Server Abundance

PIA has been on the market for many years and is a favorite, especially among experienced users. It stands out with its massive server network and the ability to customize almost every setting.

• Pros:
  • Huge Server Network: Offers an incredible range of options with over 35,000 servers in 91 countries.
  • Highly Customizable: Allows you to personalize many technical settings, from the encryption level to the kill switch behavior.
  • Proven No-Logs Policy: They have a no-logs policy that has been repeatedly proven in court.
  • Affordable Price: Generally offers very competitive pricing.

• Cons:
  • Based in the US: Being located in the USA, a Five Eyes intelligence alliance country, can be a negative for some privacy-focused users.

• Ideal For: A great option for experienced users who like to tinker with VPN settings and want full control, and for those who need a vast server network.

7. IPVanish: Fast and Reliable American Power

IPVanish is another US-based provider that is a strong contender in speed and security, distinguished by managing its own server infrastructure.

• Pros:
  • Good Speed Performance: Delivers very good speeds, especially on servers within the US, making it a good choice for accessing US streaming services.
  • Unlimited Device Support: Like Surfshark, it allows use on an unlimited number of devices with a single subscription.
  • User-Friendly Apps: Its apps display detailed real-time information such as connection speed and server load.

• Cons:
  • Based in the US: Just like PIA, being a Five Eyes country can be a concern for some.
  • Inconsistent with Streaming Services: It can sometimes be blocked by popular streaming platforms.

• Ideal For: Can be considered by users who prioritize speed, have many devices, and specifically want to access US-based content.

8. Mullvad VPN: The Champion of Anonymity and Privacy

If anonymity is at the very top of your list, you need to look no further than Mullvad. This service, which doesn’t even require an email address to create an account, takes privacy to the extreme.

• Pros:
  • Maximum Anonymity: You are only given a random number when creating an account. No personal information like email or name is required. They even accept payment in cash.
  • Transparency: They are extremely transparent about their security and privacy policies.
  • Flat and Fair Price: It has a flat monthly fee (around €5) and doesn’t try to lock you into long-term plans.

• Cons:
  • Not Streaming-Focused: It is not as successful as others at bypassing the geo-blocks of popular streaming services.
  • User Interface: It doesn’t have an interface that is as flashy or beginner-friendly as its rivals.

• Ideal For: The right address for advanced users and privacy activists who value their privacy and anonymity above all else and want to remain completely unknown.

9. TunnelBear: A Cute and Simple Start

TunnelBear is a fantastic starting point for those new to the VPN world, especially with its cute bear-themed design and incredibly simple interface.

• Pros:
  • Extremely Simple: No complicated settings or menus. Just pick a country on a map and flip the switch.
  • Trustworthy and Transparent: Regularly undergoes independent security audits and publishes the reports.
  • Free Plan: Offers a limited free plan with 500MB of data per month (an additional 1GB can be earned with a tweet).

• Cons:
  • Limited Features: Its features are quite limited for advanced users.
  • Speed: May not offer speeds as high as other premium competitors.

• Ideal For: A cute and effective start for those trying a VPN for the first time, people who dislike complexity, and those who only need basic protection occasionally.

Which VPN is Right for You?

As you can see, the concept of the “best VPN” varies from person to person. Making the right choice for you depends on correctly identifying your needs.

• For the Best Speed and Simplicity: ExpressVPN

• For the Most Comprehensive Security: NordVPN

• For the Best Price/Performance and Unlimited Devices: Surfshark

• For Streaming and Torrenting: CyberGhost

• For Privacy and a Reliable Free Option: ProtonVPN

In the digital age, using a VPN is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity. The internet is an ocean full of freedom and opportunities, but it also harbors unseen dangers. A good VPN acts as a sturdy ship that charts a safe course for you in this ocean, protecting you from the storms.

👉 Feel free to share the VPN services you use and are happy with in the comments below.