The Best VPN to Use to Protect Your Privacy

Introduction

Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is best practice for hiding your internet activity from snoops. A VPN establishes an encrypted connection between your device and a private server, which is ideal for maintaining security. However, with so many VPN apps available, it can be challenging to choose the right one. This article reviews some of the best VPN services based on various criteria, including speed, security, and usability.

Criteria for Choosing a VPN

Choosing the right VPN involves several important factors:

Security: The VPN should offer strong encryption and security protocols.
No Logging: It should ensure that your personal data and web activity are not logged.
Kill Switch: An automatic kill switch is crucial to prevent your IP address from being exposed if the VPN disconnects.
Server Locations: A large number of servers in multiple countries is essential for fast and reliable connections.
Company Headquarters: Preferably, the company should be headquartered outside of the US and Europe to avoid mandatory data retention laws.
Customer Service: The VPN should offer responsive and helpful customer support.
User Interface: It should be easy to use, even for beginners.
Pricing: The cost should be reasonable and offer good value for money.

Top VPN Services

ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN consistently ranks at the top of most VPN reviews, and for good reason. It excels in all the critical aspects a VPN should cover. The company claims its service is AES 256-bit encrypted and supports major VPN security protocols, which ensures top-notch security for users.

One of the standout features of ExpressVPN is its user-friendly interface. You need virtually no knowledge of VPNs to set up ExpressVPN. There’s a large connect button, and you can switch locations even while connected. Once connected, ExpressVPN reliably stays connected, and there's an automatic kill switch in case the VPN disconnects unexpectedly.

During testing, browsing the web and downloading files were both quick and smooth, whether on Wi-Fi or while walking in remote areas. Out of all the VPNs tested, ExpressVPN consistently delivered the lowest ping, making it a great choice for users who prioritize speed and reliability.

Reputation is crucial for a VPN, and ExpressVPN has maintained a strong one with no data breaches reported. Based in the British Virgin Islands, ExpressVPN is out of the jurisdiction of the US and European governments, which means it hasn’t had to hand over user data to authorities.

ExpressVPN remains functional in China, despite the country’s ban on VPNs. On a trip to China, the service was indispensable for accessing Google Maps, checking the latest news on Hong Kong politics, and streaming on Twitch—all of which were blocked every time the VPN was disconnected.

With over 3,000 servers in 94 countries, ExpressVPN offers extensive coverage, ensuring fast and secure connections wherever you are. The only downside is the cost, with a month-to-month fee of $12.95 and an annual fee of$ 99.95 ($8.32 per month). However, the company offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to try it risk-free.

Features:

AES 256-bit encryption
Supports major VPN security protocols
User-friendly interface with a large connect button
Ability to switch locations while connected
Reliable and fast connections with the lowest ping
Automatic kill switch
Over 3,000 servers in 94 countries
Based in the British Virgin Islands, outside US and European jurisdiction

Pros:

Excellent reputation with no data breaches
Works in China despite VPN bans
Fast and reliable performance

Cons:

Higher cost compared to competitors

Price: $12.95/month or$ 99.95/year ($8.32/month)

Verdict: ExpressVPN is hard to beat for its comprehensive features and performance, making it the best overall VPN service.

NordVPN

NordVPN is a less expensive alternative to ExpressVPN that still offers a comprehensive set of features. It costs $107.55 for a three-year plan ($ 2.99 per month) and $11.95 for a single month. Like ExpressVPN, NordVPN uses AES 256-bit encryption and supports major VPN protocols. It also includes an automatic kill switch.

NordVPN boasts 5,437 servers in 62 countries, which is more servers than ExpressVPN but in fewer countries. This extensive server network generally provides fast and reliable connections, although performance can vary by region. For example, NordVPN performed well in the US but had slower speeds in Taiwan and Germany during testing.

One of NordVPN’s strengths is its location in Panama, a country without mandatory data retention policies. This means your data is not logged or stored, ensuring privacy. Additionally, NordVPN can support up to six devices simultaneously, making it a cost-effective choice for families or groups of friends.

Features:

AES 256-bit encryption
Supports major VPN protocols
Automatic kill switch
5,437 servers in 62 countries
Based in Panama, with no mandatory data retention policies
Supports six devices simultaneously

Pros:

Affordable pricing, especially with long-term plans
Fast speeds in the US

Cons:

Available in fewer countries compared to ExpressVPN
Slower speeds in some regions

Price: $11.95/month or$ 107.55 for three years ($2.99/month)

Verdict: NordVPN is a budget-friendly alternative with robust features, making it ideal for users looking to save money without compromising on quality.

Other VPN Options

Private Internet Access (PIA)

Features:

Affordable pricing ( $2.91 to$ 6.95/month)
3,335 servers in 33 countries
Supports up to five devices
Lists each server’s ping for speed optimization
Option to toggle between AES 128-bit or 256-bit encryption

Pros:

Some of the lowest prices
Flexible encryption options

Cons:

Only in 33 countries
Based in the US, raising privacy concerns

IPVanish

Features:

AES 256-bit encryption
1,200 servers in 60 countries
Supports up to ten devices
Promises anonymous torrenting

Pros:

Supports a large number of devices

Cons:

Based in the US
Speeds can be slow

TunnelBear

Features:

AES-256 encryption
User-friendly with a cute bear mascot
Limited free version or premium for $5 to$ 10
22 countries

Pros:

Easy to use
Free version available

Cons:

Based in Toronto, subject to local laws
Limited server locations

PureVPN

Features:

Affordable pricing ( $3.33 to$ 10.95/month)
Over 2,000 servers in 140 countries
Works in China
AES 256-bit encryption with options to lower encryption for speed

Pros:

Wide server coverage
Works in China

Cons:

Based in Hong Kong, potential pressure from China
Has complied with US government info request in the past

CyberGhost

Features:

AES 256-bit encryption
Over 3,600 servers in over 55 countries
Supports up to seven devices
Based in Romania, which rejects the EU’s data retention policies
Affordable pricing

Pros:

Supports many devices
Affordable

Cons:

Owned by a company with a history of making adware
Poor auto-selection of servers

Hide My Ass! VPN

Features:

Memorable name
Decent internet speeds
940 servers in 190 countries
AES 256-bit encryption

Pros:

Wide country coverage

Cons:

Based in the US
Logs and retains user data for 30 days

Astrill VPN

Features:

Based in Seychelles, no data retention policies
Can connect up to five devices at once
Available in 50 countries
AES 256-bit encryption

Pros:

Not subject to data retention policies

Cons:

Vague privacy policy
Expensive

Hotspot Shield VPN

Features:

AES 256-bit encryption
Multiple pricing plans from $3.99 to$ 12.99
Connects to five devices

Pros:

Multiple pricing options

Cons:

Moderate speeds
Limited server locations
Based in the US

Conclusion

Choosing the right VPN depends on your specific needs, such as security, speed, number of servers, and cost. ExpressVPN is the top pick for its overall performance and reliability, while NordVPN offers a more affordable option with strong features. Other VPNs like PIA, IPVanish, and TunnelBear may suit specific preferences or budgets.

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