Best VPN Services 2025: Complete Privacy Protection Guide

January 2025 22 min read Security Guide

VPN services encrypt your internet connection for privacy, security on public WiFi, and access to geo-restricted content. This comprehensive guide compares the best VPNs for 2025.

VPN Quick Facts 2025

  • Average price: $3 - $13/month (with long-term plans)
  • Best overall: NordVPN (speed + security + value)
  • Key features: No-logs, kill switch, split tunneling
  • Speed impact: 10-30% slower with premium VPNs

Top VPN Services Compared

VPNPriceServersDevicesRating
NordVPN$3.69/mo6,000+10★★★★★
ExpressVPN$6.67/mo3,000+8★★★★★
Surfshark$2.29/mo3,200+Unlimited★★★★★
CyberGhost$2.19/mo9,000+7★★★★☆
ProtonVPN$4.99/mo3,000+10★★★★☆
BEST OVERALL

NordVPN

  • Price: $3.69/month (2-year plan)
  • Servers: 6,000+ in 111 countries
  • Speed: Excellent with NordLynx protocol
  • Features: Double VPN, Threat Protection, meshnet
  • Streaming: Netflix, Disney+, all major services
  • Pros: Fast, secure, excellent for streaming
BEST VALUE

Surfshark

  • Price: $2.29/month (2-year plan)
  • Devices: Unlimited simultaneous connections
  • Features: CleanWeb ad blocker, MultiHop
  • Pros: Unlimited devices, very affordable

Security Features Comparison

FeatureNordVPNExpressVPNSurfshark
No-Logs (Audited)YesYesYes
Kill SwitchYesYesYes
Double VPNYesNoYes
RAM-Only ServersYesYesYes

FAQ

Are VPNs legal?

Yes, VPNs are legal in most countries including the US, UK, and Europe. Some countries like China restrict VPN use.

Do VPNs slow down internet?

Premium VPNs typically reduce speed by 10-30%. Free VPNs can be much slower.