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It’s a hard reality that VPNs are fantastic
They let you to access geo-restricted content from websites and services while also protecting your online privacy. Furthermore, using a VPN can provide you a significant competitive edge.
Later, more on that.
Let me now present you to the leading VPN service providers available in the market.
What is a VPN?
A “Virtual Private Network,” or VPN for short, offers customers access to a secure network through a global network of distant servers. By doing this, users can get around content limitations and maintain privacy from possible cybercriminals, ISP tracking, and marketers.
Top 8 VPN Service Providers
1. NordVPN
My personal VPN preference is NordVPN. It provides features like split tunneling, dedicated IPs, and dark web monitoring in addition to being dependable and quick.
I truly like the changes they made to the app’s look. Just select “Quick connect” or one of the available connections from the left panel after opening the NordVPN app.
There are 5,249 servers in 59 different countries on the NordVPN server list. They now rank among the best VPN providers with the largest network coverage as a result.
NordVPN is compatible with an infinite number of devices. Still, you are limited to using their VPN simultaneously on six devices.
NordVPN Key Features:
- Presets: There is a choice for connection presets when you install NordVPN. These come pre-configured with the best configurations for certain uses, such as downloading, surfing, and streaming.
- Multi-Platform Support: Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, and iOS may all use NordVPN. Every platform has a special NordVPN version with features tailored for the best possible user experience.
- Advanced Security Features: One of the few VPN providers with cutting-edge security features is NordVPN. For instance, the Dark Web Monitor actively searches the deep web for data that might be connected to your account.
- Obfuscated Servers: Some websites have the ability to identify VPN users. The disguised servers of NordVPN let you get over limitations designed to stop VPN traffic.
- Block Ads and Malware: With the help of NordVPN’s “CyberSec” feature, you may browse the internet securely and cleanly. This functions by filtering advertisements and websites that might lead to malware infection.
NordVPN Pricing
| Feature | 1-Month Plan | 1-Year Plan | 2-Year Plan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $11.95 per month | $4.92 per month, paid annually | $3.67 per month, paid annually |
| Devices | Unlimited, up to 6 connected at the same time | Unlimited, up to 6 connected at the same time | Unlimited, up to 6 connected at the same time |
| Bandwidth limit | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
2. Surfshark
With a focus on security, Surfshark is a VPN service that promises to give you complete anonymity.
It has quick speeds and dependable connectivity in addition to a few practical tools for daily chores. I’ll talk about the “CleanWeb” function in a moment, but it’s my personal favorite.
Surfshark is an app with a simple, elegant UI. With just a single click, you may establish a connection to a suggested VPN server or select one from the list.
With more than 3,200 sites spread over 65 countries, Surfshark boasts an incredible network. You can use two VPN servers at once with their “MultiHop” feature, which greatly increases your protection and privacy.
Surfshark Key Features:
- CleanWeb: Every Surfshark user will have access to CleanWeb, an integrated ad blocker. For those who detest advertisements and want a safe, clean browsing experience, this is an essential tool.
- Whitelisting Tool: You can utilize “split tunneling” with Surfshark’s Whitelister to let specific programs and websites get across the VPN. This is excellent if you want to browse anonymously while using mobile banking apps or other regional websites.
- MultiHop: Your VPN connection is effectively doubled by Surfshark’s MultiHop capability. This doubles the effectiveness of your VPN in maintaining your privacy and concealing your actual location.
- Unlimited Devices: Surfshark allows you to use the VPN on as many devices as you want, even with the cheapest account. Yes, this implies that you can simultaneously connect each of them to a VPN connection.
- Camouflage and NoBorders Modes: The “Camouflage” setting in Surfshark keeps your ISP from knowing that you are using a VPN. Conversely, the “NoBorders” mode lets you access content even in nations with severe laws.
Surfshark Pricing
| Feature | 1-Month Plan | 6-Month Plan | 24-Month Plan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $12.95 per month | $6.49 per month, billed every 6 months | $2.49 per month, billed annually after the first 24 months |
| Devices | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Bandwidth limit | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
3. AtlasVPN
AtlasVPN is a well-regarded VPN provider that prioritizes security. It is powered by more than 1,000 fast servers located in 41 different nations.
Unlimited device support, multihop servers, and an abundance of additional security safeguards to protect your browsing activity are among its most amazing features.
Like the majority of the best VPNs, Atlas VPN has an easy-to-use interface that just takes a few clicks to get you online anonymously. The VPN can be used simultaneously on an infinite number of devices running popular smart TV operating systems such as iOS, MacOS, Windows, Linux, Android, and iPadOS.
AtlasVPN Key Features:
- WireGuard Protocol: Employ a proprietary VPN protocol to provide the highest level of security and the fastest possible connection speeds. A simple, open-source VPN protocol that is ideal for watching media in privacy is called WireGuard.
- Use a VPN with your TV: One of the few VPN services that supports the operating systems of smart TVs is Atlas VPN. This covers Fire TV, Apple TV, and Android TV.
- SafeSwap Servers: You can secure your connection with several IP addresses in one session by using Atlas VPN. Your connection will automatically switch between compatible server locations when you use SafeSwap servers, shielding your activity from potential harmful actors and advertisements.
- Unlimited Bandwidth: Not only may all members use Atlas VPN on an infinite number of devices, but it also offers unlimited bandwidth. This guarantees lag-free and seamless surfing for work or media enjoyment.
AtlasVPN Pricing
| Feature | 1-Month Plan | 12-Month Plan | 24-Month Plan (Plus 6 Months Free) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $11.99 per month | $3.29 per month | $1.64 per month |
| Devices | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Bandwidth limit | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
4. ExpressVPN
Another well-known VPN service provider with extensive reach is ExpressVPN. They have more than 3,000 remote VPN servers running in 160 locations in 94 different countries.
For an extensive list of all the locations of their VPN servers, see their website. Locate one in your nation, and chances are excellent your experience will be positive.
The ExpressVPN app looks the same on all devices. There is a “quick connect” feature, just like with NordVPN, but you can also select a specific server location.
I tried their free trial, and I’m really delighted with how well their service works. You are free to give it a try as well; just remember to share your results with me in the comments section.
ExpressVPN Key Features:
- Fast and Reliable Connections: My internet connection’s speed was unaffected by using ExpressVPN in any noticeable way. During my 30-day trial, I also never had a VPN connection fail out.
- Super Wide Coverage: To be perfectly honest, ExpressVPN has more covered countries than NordVPN. This is a huge benefit, particularly if there are no nearby servers for other VPN services.
- Create Custom Shortcuts: Are you using a VPN for particular services, websites, and apps? You can make personalized shortcuts with ExpressVPN to have secure access to your favorites.
- Support a Variety of Devices: Using ExpressVPN on a variety of gadgets and devices is a highly adaptable option. This applies to your WiFi network, game console, and smart TV as well.
- Lots of Learning Resources: Many educational resources are available from ExpressVPN for customers who wish to get the most out of their subscription. You can peruse their collection of informative blog entries, sports guides, privacy guides, and more.
ExpressVPN Pricing
| Feature | 1-Month Plan | 6-Month Plan | 15-Month Plan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $12.95 per month | $9.99 per month, billed every 6 months | $6.67 per month, billed every 12 months after the first 15 months |
| Devices | Unlimited, up to 5 connected at the same time | Unlimited, up to 5 connected at the same time | Unlimited, up to 5 connected at the same time |
| Bandwidth limit | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
5. Private Internet Access
Check out Private Internet Access, sometimes known as PIA, if you’re searching for a VPN service at a reasonable price.
Even at such a low cost, PIA can give you respectable download and streaming speeds. Regarding user security, it’s also no joke.
Even though they have servers all throughout the world, they exclusively optimize their US-based servers. Depending on where you reside, this could be a huge benefit or a disadvantage.
The PIA user interface is modeled like ExpressVPN’s. You can connect to the server location of your preference or utilize the quick connect option.
Private Internet Access Key Features:
- Open Source: The source code for PIA is freely available online to anybody. This lets the community help in its growth while giving users complete peace of mind.
- WireGuard: A customized PIA VPN protocol that has been optimized for effectiveness is called WireGuard. By using powerful traffic encryption, it further strengthens the security of your VPN connection.
- Powerful Encryption: Your data will be protected by military-grade encryption methods when you use PIA VPN. This guarantees that only you can see your online activity, together with their tough “No Logs” policy.
- Malware and Ad Blocking: PIA VPN services all come with integrated virus and ad-blocking tools. Additionally, you will have complete protection against trackers who might sell or exploit your information for suspicious ends.
- Free Dedicated IP: You can create a dedicated IP for free with PIA, while other firms charge more for it. This is really helpful, particularly if you intend to secure the backend of your blog with IP whitelisting.
Private Internet Access Pricing
| Feature | 1-Month Plan | 1-Year Plan | 2-Year Plan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $9.95 per month | $2.69 per month, billed annually | $3.33 per month, build annually |
| Devices | Unlimited, up to 10 connected at the same time | Unlimited, up to 10 connected at the same time | Unlimited, up to 10 connected at the same time |
| Bandwidth limit | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
6. Hotspot Shield
Speaking of inexpensive VPN services, Hotspot Shield likewise succeeds in giving their users premium performance at a price they can afford.
You may actually try out their services for free with their version. Sadly, the 500MB daily bandwidth cap of the free VPN is insufficient for even a one-hour HD video.
The over 3,200 server locations across more than 80 countries power Hotspot Shield’s VPN. Additionally, they support a variety of platforms, including Linux, MacOS, Android, Smart TVs, and Routers, just like the majority of premium VPNs.
Whichever device you’re using, Hotspot Shield is enjoyable to use. With just a single click, you can login, quickly move between servers, and monitor your usage—all from one location.
Hotspot Shield Key Features:
- Gaming Mode: Hotspot Shield allows you to customize your VPN connection for gaming with only a few clicks. It instantly establishes a low-latency connection between you and a distant server, making it ideal for intense multiplayer gaming.
- Streaming Mode: Hotspot Shield includes a streaming mode because it is aware of its user base. It is designed especially for streaming services like Hulu, Disney+, YouTube, and Netflix, as the name implies.
- Antivirus: With its powerful antivirus feature, Hotspot Shield can shield you from a variety of online dangers. Ransomware, malware, trojans, and viruses are all included in this.
- Spam-Call Blocker: If you enjoy using virtual private networks (VPNs) on your mobile device, Hotspot Shield can shield you from spam calls automatically. In addition, you may find out who owns the phone number and report spam calls to the FTC.
- Free Password Manager: Hotspot Shield’s integrated password manager promotes strong password hygiene. You may create secure passwords with the program and keep them up to date on all of your devices.
Hotspot Shield Pricing
| Feature | Free | Premium | Premium Family |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $0 | $12.99 per month or $7.99 per month with annual billing | $19.99 per month or $11.99 per month with annual billing |
| Devices | 1 | Up to 5 devices | Up to 25 devices |
| Bandwidth limit | 500MB per day | Unlimited | Unlimited |
7. TunnelBear
Under the hood, TunnelBear is a lot more interesting than just its adorable name.
Their dedication to user data protection is what initially jumps out. They provide really cheap plans, but they also frequently release the findings of independent security audits.
In terms of user experience, TunnelBear allows you to dig to the server of your choice while controlling a “tunnel bear.” All you need to do is utilize the drop-down menu or click on a server location.
Its restricted coverage is probably TunnelBear’s weakest feature.
Indeed, they operate servers in more than 41 nations. However, it is insignificant when compared to the other VPNs on our list.
TunnelBear Key Features:
- VigilantBear: In the event that you abruptly lose connection, TunnelBear will immediately block unsecured traffic when connected to a VPN server. This ensures that until you reestablish your VPN connection, your data is secure and confidential.
- GhostBear: GhostBear is comparable to NordVPN’s hidden servers and SurfShark’s NoBorders mode. It is set up to assist in concealing your identify from ISPs, companies, and governments in nations with tight laws.
- Auto-Connect to Trusted Networks: You can whitelist the networks you trust using TunnelBear. TunnelBear begins to protect you automatically if you connect to a network that is marked as “untrusted.”
- TunnelBear Blocker for Chrome: Although TunnelBear lacks an integrated ad blocker, they do offer a Chrome add-on that blocks ads. It can effectively prevent unpleasant adverts to provide a cleaner surfing experience, and it’s free.
- RememBear: TunnelBear’s in-house password management solution is called RememBear. It facilitates the creation, usage, and memory of secure passwords for your internet accounts.
TunnelBear Pricing
| Feature | Free | Unlimited | Teams |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $0 | $3.33 per month | $5.75 per month |
| Devices | Up to 5 devices | Up to 5 devices | 5 devices per user |
| Bandwidth limit | 500MB per day | Unlimited | Unlimited |
8. CyberGhost
Among the businesses on this list, CyberGhost offers the most extensive coverage and is a reliable VPN service.
They run more than 6,900 servers across 89 nations. That is twice as many servers as premium VPN providers like ExpressVPN.
Now for the app itself, CyberGhost has a simple interface that allows you to complete all of your tasks in a single window. You may configure “Smart Rules,” connect to a server, adjust your VPN settings, and do much more.
CyberGhost Key Features:
- Smart Rules: CyberGhost’s behavior can be automated by using Smart Rules, which are based on your everyday tasks. You can make a rule that, for instance, starts an app immediately as soon as you connect.
- Multi-Platform: Additionally, CyberGhost is compatible with a variety of systems, such as routers, game consoles, and smart TVs. VPN connections are designed to enhance your device’s standard functionality.
- Dedicated Streaming Servers: CyberGhost operates servers that are only used for streaming content. Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, Crunchyroll, and BBC iPlayer are among the supported services.
- No Spy Servers: CyberGhost operates servers that are only used for streaming content. Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, Crunchyroll, and BBC iPlayer are among the supported services.
- Use CyberGhost’s NoSpy servers if you’re concerned about ISPs and government spying tracking your internet activities. These are dedicated servers in Romania where your data is completely safe from strangers.
- Very Fast VPN Connection Speeds: CyberGhost, along with NordVPN and ExpressVPN, rated the best out of all the VPNs I tested. In several instances, my initial upload and download speeds were even surpassed when I connected to CyberGhost.
CyberGhost Pricing
| Feature | 1-Month Plan | 1-Year Plan | 2-Year Plan | 3-Year Plan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $12.99 per month | $3.99 per month, billed annually | $3.49 per month, billed every 2 years | $2.25 per month, billed every 3 years |
| Devices | Up to 7 devices | Up to 7 devices | Up to 7 devices | Up to 7 devices |
| Bandwidth limit | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
What To Look For in a VPN?
When choosing a VPN service provider, there are four factors to take into account: price, features, security, and performance.
Performance
That does not, however, imply that you will have the same experience that I did.
Given that we most likely live in different places, some VPNs might not work as effectively for you. For this reason, I advise you to use a VPN with local servers and do speed testing.
Security
Many VPN users place great importance on security and privacy.
Make careful to select a VPN that conforms to a “no logs” policy. To ensure you are happy with the data your VPN can access, you should also think about reviewing the company’s privacy statement.
For instance, Hotspot Shield has faced criticism in the past for its privacy policy, which permits the collection of user data such as:
- Email address
- Hardware model
- Operating system
- Real IP address (which is deleted immediately after closing the VPN connection)
Their parent firm addressed the concerns raised by their consumers in an amended privacy notice that was released following the controversy.
They are still well-known for offering VPN services today and are praised for the speed, dependability, and cross-platform compatibility of their network.
Features
Extra features provide VPN services a distinct and worthwhile quality.
They can also assist you in selecting the one to purchase.
For example, NordVPN’s “Dark Web Monitor” would be excellent if you’re worried about your information being exposed on the deep web. But utilize CyberGhost or ExpressVPN if you want to use a VPN with your gaming equipment.
When it comes to VPNs, there is no one-size-fits-all answer.
Still, there are “perfect matches.”
I advise figuring out what the primary issues you want to use a VPN to address first. Next, select the device with the feature set that best meets your requirements from the list above.
Price
Of course, when choosing a VPN service provider, price is an important consideration
There are VPNs on the previously mentioned list that are affordable for all users. If money is scarce, think about starting with a free VPN like Hotspot Shield or TunnelBear.
However, don’t be scared to invest more money on a premium solution like NordVPN or ExpressVPN if security is crucial to your company.
Conclusion
Not only can geo-blocked content be unlocked with VPNs. They can also provide you with unbreakable defense against organizations, governments, and hackers who may want to access your data.
When used properly, a VPN can also be an effective tool for blogging.
Just remember to take your time, carefully consider your alternatives, and take advantage of any offered free trials.
I’ve worked very hard to assemble trustworthy companies that the VPN community knows and loves. I can’t, however, predict whether or not every user will find them to be satisfactory.
