Best VPNs of April 2024
Updated March 29, 2024 at 3:31 pm
VPNs make it easier to unblock restricted content and streaming services abroad while hiding your online activity. There are hundreds of VPN service providers, but most of them don’t offer as much security and privacy as you’d need.
However, to help you decide on the best VPN service that is worth your hard-earned money, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 best VPNs in 2024. These best VPN services provide you with a new IP address through a secure server, making it seem like you’re in your chosen location.
Methodology To compile this list, we reviewed the top services on the market, compared the specs and features, and created a short list of the top VPNs. Then, we used product descriptions, reviews, ratings and hands-on experience to find the best VPNs for each category.
Our Picks - Best Overall: NordVPN
- Best for Easy Navigation: ExpressVPN
- Best for Wi-Fi Security: Hide.me
- Best for Unlimited Connections: Surfshark
- Best for Beginners: TunnelBear
- Best for Tor Integrations: ProtonVPN
- Best for Security: Private Internet Access
- Best for International Server Locations: CyberGhost
- Best Customizable VPN: TorGuard VPN
- Best Multi-Device User Experience: KeepSolid (VPN Unlimited)
VPN Provider Options
10 Best VPNs of 2024
Best Overall
NordVPN
Vault Verified
Why We Chose It
NordVPN is the best VPN service that combines AES-256 encryption with malware, ad blockers and multi-hop connections. NordVPN includes numerous add-ons to your VPN plan, a password manager (NordPass), a dedicated IP address and a file encryption service (NordLocker).
Key Features:
- Browser Extensions, including Firefox, Edge and Chrome
- Anonymous Browsing
- No-logs policy
- 24/7 customer support
- Kill switch
Pros
- Excellent design
- Ability to install VPN on a router
- File-sharing and traffic routing with Meshnet
Cons
- Limited utility of free Meshnet traffic routing
- Lacks pricing transparency for business groups
- Lackluster malware-blocking results
Best for Easy Navigation
ExpressVPN is a Newsweek Vault featured partner. If you make a purchase using the link included, we may earn a share of the revenue.
ExpressVPN
Vault Verified
Why We Chose It
ExpressVPN comes standard with the proprietary Lightway protocol, which helps boost speed without compromising security. It focuses on protecting individual VPN users by ostensibly tracking their employees’ behavior through a business VPN.
Key Features:
- AES-256 encryption
- Private DNS
- 24/7 customer support
- Kill switch
Pros
- Easy to use
- A broad network of servers
- Router app to protect more devices
Cons
- Limited business functionality
- No multi-hop connections
- It’s more expensive than its alternatives
Best for Wi-Fi Security
Hide.me
Vault Verified
Why We Chose It
Hide.me, as the name implies, hides your online activity behind several security layers, making your personal information available on Wi-Fi hotspots. Also, it offers the latest secure Wi-Fi connection protocols like SoftEther, IKEV2 IPsec, SSTP and WireGuard.
Key Features:
- 24/7 customer support
- Kill switch
- Split-tunneling
- No-logs policy
- Anonymous browsing
Pros
- Consistent performance and connection speed
- Offers a free plan
- Strong encryption and privacy features
Cons
- Frequent lags when switching between different servers
- Not all servers support file sharing (server and device limitations)
- Data usage restrictions and slow connection speeds
Best for Unlimited Connections
Surfshark
Vault Verified
Why We Chose It
Surfshark allows you to send selected apps through its tunnel and multi-hop connections, bouncing your tunnel across multiple servers for additional security. Also, its standard plan allows you to connect to an unlimited number of devices to boot simultaneously.
Key Features:
- Split tunneling
- Camouflage Mode
- Clean web and GPS spoof
- No Borders mode
- Kill switch
Pros
- Easy to use
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Ability to unblock most streaming networks
Cons
- Split tunneling is only available on Windows and Android
- The dedicated IP only works on Android
- The privacy policy needs clarification
Best for Beginners
TunnelBear
Vault Verified
Why We Chose It
Setting up the TunnelBear is very seamless; you just need to download the app, select a country and flip the switch. It functions quietly in the background, ensuring your online activity remains secure and private on any network.
Key Features:
- AES-256 encryption
- No logs policy
- Anonymous Browsing
- Split tunneling
- Kill switch
Pros
- Performs third-party security audits yearly
- One simple off/on switch with no configuration needed
- Unlimited devices on all paid plans
Cons
- The free plan is limited to 500mb monthly
- Functionality is limited on iOS devices
- No multi-hop connections
Best for Tor Integrations
ProtonVPN
Vault Verified
Why We Chose It
ProtonVPN is an effective VPN with audited apps and a strict no-logs policy. It features Tor integrations, offers fast connections and supports up to 10 devices.
Key Features:
- No logs policy
- Kill switch
- Anonymous Browsing
- Browser extensions, including Firefox and Chrome
- Split tunneling
Pros
- Prevents DNS leaks
- Numerous advanced privacy tools
- Slick, accessible client and open source
Cons
- Confusing pricing policy
- The free option doesn’t include Tor over VPN
- Awkward ChromeOS implementation
Best for Security
Private Internet Access
Vault Verified
Why We Chose It
Private Internet Access provides access to servers in over 84 countries but doesn’t disclose the total number of servers. It’s the best choice for small business owners because of its perfect mix of features and pricing.
Key Features:
- Dedicated IP address
- 24/7 customer support
- Kill switch
- Split tunneling
- No logs policy
Pros
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Completed third-party audit
- Numerous server locations
Cons
- There is no free version
Best for International Server Locations
CyberGhost
Vault Verified
Why We Chose It
CyberGhost has a strong feature set and an intuitive interface for users of all skill levels. It has server locations dedicated to torrenting and streaming.
Key Features:
- 100% No Logs Policy
- Dedicated server locations
- AES-256 encryption
- Split tunneling
- Anonymous Browsing
Pros
- Several add-ons, including antivirus
- Excellent speed test scores
- It is affordable, especially with a multi-year plan
Cons
- Confusing privacy policies
- NoSpy servers cost more money
- The free trial on macOS and Windows lasts for less than 24 hours
Best Customizable VPN
TorGuard VPN
Vault Verified
Why We Chose It
TorGuard is a highly customizable VPN service provider with numerous positive reviews. It offers different privacy features packaged into separate subscription plans depending on your intended use.
Key Features:
- Supports Windows, Mac OS, Linux
- 3000+ servers in 50+ countries
- Fast 24/7 support
Pros
- Separate plans for different uses, including a business package
- Dedicated IP add-on
- Numerous positive user reviews
Cons
- Limited server locations
- Their seven-day money-back guarantee is less generous than some of its competitors
- No public audits
Best Multi-Device User Experience
KeepSolid (VPN Unlimited)
Vault Verified
Why We Chose It
KeepSolid, the umbrella company of VPN Unlimited, is highly compatible with several platforms and offers discrete apps, access to a dedicated IP and an intuitive user experience. It also has a subscription plan specifically designed for businesses.
Key Features:
- Kill switch
- 24/7 customer support
- No logs policy
- Anonymous browsing
- Split tunneling
Pros
- The add-ons and device upgrades are expensive
- Wonky device configuration
- The site’s layout makes it difficult to find the information you need in a single location
Cons
- Split tunneling is only available on Windows and Android
- The dedicated IP only works on Android
- The privacy policy needs clarification
VPN Introduction
A VPN protects its users by encrypting their data and hiding their IP addresses, which include browsing activity, location and identity. You might want to use a VPN anytime you connect to a potentially unsecured network.
What Is a VPN?
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a private and secure connection between the internet and your device. It offers enhanced privacy by disabling your ISP (Internet Service Provider) from tracking your online activity and selling off your browsing data to advertisers. Also, it protects you from censorship, snooping and interference.
With a VPN, you can surf the internet securely at optimal speed, encrypting your internet data and hiding your IP address. VPN is highly recommended for those living in countries with restrictive internet policies to avoid government surveillance.
With a virtual private network, you can use a private tunnel instead of riding exposed on the wide-open internet highway. So, a VPN acts as the personal tunnel that encircles you, masking you in anonymity and blocking anyone from seeing where you’re going or what you’re doing.
How Does a VPN Work?
A VPN creates encrypted connections between devices. Encryption means disorganizing data to allow only authorized parties to understand the information. Here, all devices connected to the VPN set up encryption keys for encoding and decoding all the data shared before them.
Instead of sending your internet traffic (downloads, uploads, pages visited and searches) directly to your Internet Service Provider, a VPN first routes your traffic through a VPN server. That way, when your data is finally transmitted to the internet, it looks like it’s coming from the VPN server, not your device.
Without a VPN, your IP address (a special number unique to your network) will be visible online. A VPN masks your IP address by acting as an intermediary and rerouting your traffic. It also adds encryption, or a tunnel around your identity, as you connect. The combination of the VPN server and the encryption tunnel blocks your ISP, hackers, the government and everyone else from spying on you as you navigate the web.
Who Is a VPN Best For?
VPNs work best for business purposes and personal streaming. Over 77% of individuals use VPNs for personal data, while 50% use them for business transactions. Also, it’s common to see people using a VPN on unsecured public Wi-Fi networks to hide their IP addresses from hackers.
A VPN is also best for those looking for an additional layer of privacy, allowing access to foreign websites because they provide secure connections for transferring sensitive information. There are several personal and business uses for VPNs, with plenty of options for consumers.
You might want to use a VPN if you’re worried about your ISP tracking your online activity. Whenever you connect to the internet through a VPN, your ISP won’t be able to see or access what you’re doing online. However, the company that provides your VPN service will, in short, anyone who desires a freer, more secure and safer online experience will benefit from a VPN.
Types of VPN Services
Several types of VPN services are available based on your needs and preferences.
- Remote Access VPN: This VPN is mainly used by those working in a company where you have to log into a private network while on public internet. It protects the data transfer and connection between the private network and the employee.
- Personal VPN: A personal VPN is otherwise called a consumer VPN. It encrypts your active data transfers and protects your IP address. With this VPN, you can access previously inaccessible content from your location.
- Mobile VPN: This VPN shares the same similarities as a remote access VPN. The only point of divergence is that mobile VPN is used only on mobile devices with cellular networks or Wi-Fi.
- Site-To-Site VPN: This VPN is built to mask private intranets and give users of more secured networks access to each other’s resources. Large companies primarily use it. Site-to-site VPNs don’t offer the same flexibility as SSL VPNs and are challenging to implement.
How to Choose a VPN
The best VPN services come with excellent features and capabilities. However, not all of them are suitable for a particular purpose. Hence, there are factors you must always consider when choosing a VPN.
Speed and Reliability
Ensure you check the speed tests of the VPN before making a choice. To get the latest information about VPNs, you can browse for “VPN speed test tools.” High VPN speeds are paramount to ensuring smooth torrenting, browsing and streaming at all times.
Locations and Number of Servers
The more server locations a VPN has, the higher your chances of finding the best VPN country to connect to, depending on your needs. Closer locations will ensure the best speeds, while servers in niche countries or regions will help achieve ultimate privacy and bypass geo-blocking.
Security Features
Highly secure VPNs employ industry-standard or next-generation encryption ciphers to protect data. A VPN with an independently audited no logs policy prevents VPN blocks, bypassing geo and torrenting.
Compatibility
If you want to get over internet restrictions and bypass strict geo, you’ll need to settle for a VPN with obfuscated servers and strong unlocking abilities. Also, check whether the VPN provider has streaming options where you can access the most popular streaming platforms. If you’re a torrenter, go for P2P-optimized VPNs.
Other VPN alternatives
Our top ten will meet the needs of most people. However, we realize that you might be looking for something a little different. So, here are some VPN alternatives that may be a better fit for some.
1. Shadowsocks
Shadowsocks is a step up from your regular VPNs. Through the use of a particular type of encryption, you can escape censorship. Although it’s mostly used as a means of getting past China’s Great Firewall, it’s also an escape route from other blocks. However, it usually fails to get past Netflix’s blocks.
Also, Shadowsocks shouldn’t be used for torrenting because its encryption doesn’t work for that. Even though this VPN is completely free, setting it up requires that you have a server of your own. However, using a program called Outline, you can share the server with your friends, helping you reduce costs a little.
2. Tor
Tor, the onion router, is one of the best VPN alternatives. Unlike a regular VPN that connects all your internet traffic to a single server, Tor utilizes a large network of servers worldwide to bounce your connection around, ensuring that no single server has all your data.
Tor is an excellent choice for those worried about VPNs’ possible data collection but still concerned about top-notch security. Unfortunately, one of the downsides of Tor is that it struggles with blocks like Netflix, and continuously bouncing your internet connection slows it down.
3. SSH Tunnel
SSH Tunnel does a great job when it comes to data encryption but won’t change your IP address as other VPNs do. Hence, it won’t allow you to crack any blocks. However, it’s a great way to transfer data securely if your VPN isn’t working. The SSH server is great at this!
The major downside of using the SSH tunnel is that, apart from not changing your location, it can be tough to set up, especially if you don’t have any experience with networking technology. Regardless, it’s the go-to option if you ever need a cheap VPN service.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Makes a Great VPN?
Strong industry-standard encryption, like 256-bit AES encryption, is what makes a VPN great. Also, a VPN with a kill switch is an important feature to look out for. A kill switch automatically disconnects your device from the internet if the VPN connection drops, preventing your online activity from being exposed.
What’s the Best VPN for Android?
The best VPN for Android is ExpressVPN, founded in 2009. It has been the longest-standing on the list of the best Android VPNs. It has a user-friendly and privacy-focused Android app that’s super easy to set up and navigate.
What’s the Best VPN for an iPhone?
Surfshark is the best VPN for an iPhone. It offers unlimited device support and impressive performance. It ranks first on the list because of its guaranteed privacy, strong security features and ability to unblock streaming services.
What Is the Cheapest VPN?
Proton VPN is the cheapest VPN. It’s not just free, but it’s completely worth using. Although it doesn’t include all the features that come with paid subscriptions and lacks support for torrenting, its free plan is secure and doesn’t have usage time, speed or data limits as most other VPNs do.
What’s the Best VPN for Mac?
The best VPN for Macs is ExpressVPN. It ranks at the top of the list because of its price, speed and security features. Although ExpressVPN isn’t the cheapest, it’s one of the most secure and fastest.
Editorial Note: Opinions expressed here are author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post. We may earn a commission from partner links on Newsweek, but commissions do not affect our editors’ opinions or evaluations.
