The best VPN service in 2024

A good VPN will improve your online privacy, give you access to streaming content that's blocked in your country, and won't slow you down in the process. In this guide I've rounded up the 10 best VPN services for most people, all of which are super secure and easy to use.

At TechRadar, our experts have spent over 3,000 hours testing more than 100 VPNs—including 28,000 speed tests and 2,800 streaming tests. I've used all this information, alongside my own extensive research, to pull together this ranked list of the very best VPNs.

The most important thing to consider when choosing a VPN is the privacy protection it offers, and I trust every one of the providers here to keep you safe when you're browsing online. Meanwhile, if you're into TV and movies, a VPN that can unblock extra content on Netflix, Disney+, and regional TV sites is a must. If you pay for ultrafast Wi-Fi, making sure your VPN is as fast as possible is a priority. 

I've highlighted which VPNs are best for which activity in the guide below so you can quickly find what you're looking for. But, if you're in a rush, here are the three very best VPNs I've tested.

The best VPNs in 2024: my top three

1. The best VPN service overall: NordVPN

1. The best VPN service overall: NordVPN
NordVPN is the best VPN right now. With easy-to-use apps and some of the fastest speeds I've seen from a VPN, it covers all the bases—and it also unblocked every streaming service in every region I tested. 

It's excellent value at $3.09 per month, and you can also add a password manager, cloud storage, and even cyber insurance. Try it out risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee and get a free month of protection.

2. The best VPN for beginners: ExpressVPN
If you just want a VPN that does everything for you, ExpressVPN's apps are super simple and easy to get up and running. However, that ease of use comes at double the cost of NordVPN, starting at $6.67 per month

2. The best VPN for beginners: ExpressVPN
If you just want a VPN that does everything for you, ExpressVPN's apps are super simple and easy to get up and running. However, that ease of use comes at double the cost of NordVPN, starting at $6.67 per month

With one-click connect, you automatically get the fastest, most secure connection. If you want to see how the two big names compare, take advantage of its 30-day money-back guarantee to trial it.

3. The best cheap VPN: Surfshark

3. The best cheap VPN: Surfshark
If you want a VPN that's as budget-friendly as it is high-quality, check out Surfshark. It's the fastest service out of all the VPNs I've tested, and it unblocks every leading streaming service. 

Best of all, Surfshark costs just $2.29 per month, which includes an alternative ID and email generator. If you want, you can upgrade to get real-time credit card, email, and data breach alerts. Plus, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Recent updates

The biggest recent change to this guide was NordVPN taking the #1 spot away from ExpressVPN. While ExpressVPN is still great, NordVPN's ever-growing feature list and bargain pricing mean it's quite simply a better deal for most people. If you want to see the data yourself, check out my latest VPN test results. I've also simplified the page overall to make it easier for you to find the information you're looking for.

The best VPN services in 2024

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The best VPN overall

NordVPN apps working on mobile, PC, tablet, and other devicesTechRadar Editor's Choice award logo

1. NordVPN

Plenty of security tools, simple apps, and amazing performance

Streaming sites unblocked: Netflix, Amazon, Disney, BBC iPlayer, ITVX, Channel 4, 9Now, 10 play | Available on: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux (CLI), routers and more | 24/7 support: Yes | Refund period: 30 days | Number of servers: over 6,100 | Server locations: 140 | Countries: 110 | Simultaneous connections: 10

Packed with great features
Reliable Netflix unblocking
One of the fastest VPNs around
Customizable pricing plans
Easy to use
Not great for advanced users
Fewer server locations than ExpressVPN
Subscribe if:

✔️ You want an all-in-one security suite: NordVPN offers everything from malware protection and ad blocking to cyber insurance for identity theft and fraud.

✔️ You want a Netflix VPN: with consistently perfect scores in our streaming tests, NordVPN's Meshnet feature means you can get around household detection and watch your favorite shows abroad.

✔️ You want a blend of quality and cost: NordVPN offers plenty of features, amazing speeds, and additional security tools, all at a mid-range cost.

Don't subscribe if:

❌ You want lots of granular control: NordVPN's apps require a few extra clicks on hamburger menus here and there for manual configurations. Good for beginners, but an inconvenience if you want a specific and nuanced setup.

❌ You want servers everywhere: with 140 locations available, you get a lot of options, but not as many as ExpressVPN.

Bottom line: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

🔒 NordVPN strikes the perfect balance between security, usability, performance, and unblocking capability, all while offering exceptional customization. Try for yourself and see why it's the best VPN in 2024 with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Want to know more?

Check out our in-depth NordVPN review for a closer look at the top VPN in all its glory.

NordVPN tops my chart as the best VPN in 2024 thanks to its perfect blend of high-quality features, easy-to-use apps, reliable performance, and exceptional prices. Take advantage of one of the best streaming VPNs, and see for yourself why it's my go-to pick right now.

With automated connections and simplified user interfaces, you simply pick where you want to connect to, and NordVPN instantly finds the best connection for you—meaning you don't have to manually configure your servers. On top of that, NordVPN also offers its NordPass password manager, data breach scanner, and NordLocker secure cloud storage to users on the Complete plan.

Try NordVPN with a 30-day money-back guarantee. 

With NordVPN's Meshnet feature, you can create secure private networks in your own home and protect as many as 60 devices at any one time. This makes it perfect for getting around household detection when you want to share your passwords. NordVPN even offers free Meshnet for all users—most companies would charge a premium on top of the regular subscription fees for a service like that.

The apps are designed to be simple and to deter people from accidentally misconfiguring their VPN setup. One of my favorite features is NordVPN's split tunneling suggestions. When the service knows an app won't play nicely with the VPN, it'll give you the option to split tunnel it and let it run outside of the VPN connection.

For example, on my phone (Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra) it recommended adding Android Auto to split tunneling because it can block your phone from connecting to your car if it detects a VPN connection. Putting aside my grievances with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for not accepting the need for a VPN, this is a helpful tool that makes using a VPN easier and better for everyone.

With customizable pricing plans, you only pay for what you want to use, meaning NordVPN is an amazing option for people who want an all-in-one security solution to cut the cost of their current subscriptions. Even if you're just after a Netflix VPN that goes the extra mile to keep your device secure, NordVPN is an excellent value-for-money option that doesn't skimp on quality or functionality.

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NordVPN test results:
AttributesNotesRating
DesignApps have a novelty that provides a more visually entertaining user experience⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useGood for new users, but more work is needed to make it easier to set up advanced configurations⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceOne of the fastest VPNs on the market, maxing out my testing line⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingUnblocked everything we threw at it, every time we tried⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyA privacy-first approach that's supported with clear investment in improving the security of its apps⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer supportFriendly, supportive and professional⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PriceFantastic value for money⭐⭐⭐⭐

The best VPN for beginners

ExpressVPN, running on Windows, Mac, tablet, iPhone, Android, router, and AppleTV

(Image credit: ExpressVPN)

2. ExpressVPN

High-quality, and perfect for anyone new to VPNs

Streaming sites unblocked: Netflix, Amazon, Disney, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, Hulu, ITVX, Channel 4, 9Now, 10 play | Available on: Windows, Android, iOS, Mac, Linux (command-line only), Routers, almost everything else | 24/7 support: Yes | Refund period: 30 days | Number of servers: over 3,200 | Server locations: 160 | Countries: 94 | Simultaneous connections: 8

Easy to use for beginners
Apps for almost everything
Fast servers in over 94 countries
Ultra-reliable security features
Expert 24/7 live customer support
An expensive choice
Not as fast as NordVPN or Surfshark
Recent DNS leak (now fixed)
Subscribe if:

✔️ You want a VPN that you can set and forget: ExpressVPN's auto-connect feature means that you connect once, and you're always protected.

✔️ You're wanting to access content everywhere: with over 160 locations around the world to choose from, you'll be able to access local content no matter where you are.

✔️ You need a VPN you can trust with your life: between ExpressVPN's regular audits and no-logs policy, you can be certain your information is safe from oppressive regimes.

Don't subscribe if:

 You're on a strict budget: in a cost-of-living crisis, ExpressVPN is an expensive choice. If you can't afford its prices, we'd recommend looking towards NordVPN or Surfshark.

❌ You need a full security suite: ExpressVPN prides itself on being one of the best VPNs, and that's where it focuses its attention. If you need an all-in-one solution with built-in antivirus capabilities, Express may not be the right pick for you.

Bottom line: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

🔒 ExpressVPN strikes the perfect balance between security, usability, performance, and unblocking capability, all while offering a simple and easy-to-use app. Try for yourself and see why it's one of my favorite picks with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Want to know more?

Check out our in-depth ExpressVPN review for a closer look at the service, and see why it's our top VPN for beginners.

ExpressVPN previously topped my list as the best VPN because of the way it automates all of those complicated configurations that most other apps would have you do manually. However, its high price point, limited toolkit, and a recent DNS leak (now fixed) meant that NordVPN was able to dethrone them after six years in first place.

Everything is laid out in a simple and clear design that makes it great for beginners. With one-click connect, you just tap the power button and you're instantly protected. ExpressVPN also shows suggested servers for the fastest connection, as well as your recent connection history and amount of time protected.

Try ExpressVPN with a 30-day money-back guarantee. 

If you're looking to access content abroad, ExpressVPN's server library is enormous. With 160 locations across 94 countries, that's more than almost any other provider. Whether you're wanting to watch the latest series on HBO Max or stream your favorite shows on BBC iPlayer, ExpressVPN has plenty of servers in the US and UK. 

ExpressVPN is always there to offer support—with teams available 24/7. In my personal testing, I found ExpressVPN had issues split tunneling Android Auto in my car, which meant it occasionally wouldn't work. After relaying this information to ExpressVPN, the devs pushed out a new update, almost immediately, to fix the issue and ensure Android Auto was detectable in the split tunneling list.

ExpressVPN offers some amazing speeds, but it does have its drawbacks. Unfortunately, it's not as fast as NordVPN or Surfshark, which both maxed out our tests. However, the speeds it does offer (410 Mbps) are still over 15 times what you'd need for streaming in 4K ultra-high-definition and gaming online. If you just want an app you can set and forget, ExpressVPN is perfect. Plus, it comes with a built-in password manager and Threat Manager to keep your security simple.

Be sure to set up the auto-connect and kill switch functions if you want to make sure your device and data are protected at all times. This means that even if your VPN connection is interrupted, your data will still be protected, and you won't accidentally reveal what you were doing online. I use it on my phone so I know I'm always protected when I'm out and about.

For the everyday user, ExpressVPN will go above and beyond your needs to protect your device and data. It's excellent in all situations, and focuses on providing a service that people can trust with their lives—and many of its users do. With so many high-quality security features, ExpressVPN gives genuine peace of mind while you're using the internet.

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ExpressVPN test results:
AttributesNotesRating
DesignElegant and simple, there's no clutter and everything has its place⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useAn automated one-click connect means you get the safest, fastest protection possible—without having to configure it yourself⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceFast enough for streaming, online gaming, and torrenting, with a big focus on low-latency bandwidth⭐⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingConsistently unblocks every site and region we test⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyExpressVPN's teams are constantly improving the industry, but a recent DNS leak (now fixed) caused a stir⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer supportAlways available, friendly, and helpful⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PriceAn expensive option, but if you want something you can stake your life on, it's worth every penny⭐⭐

The best cheap VPN service

Surfshark VPN app running on several devices

3. Surfshark

The best cheap VPN - amazing speeds and a premium service

Streaming sites unblocked: Netflix, Amazon, Disney, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, ITVX, Channel 4, 9Now, 10 play | Available on: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux (GUI), routers and more | 24/7 support: Yes | Refund period: 30 days | Number of servers: over 3,200 | Server locations: 143 | Countries: 100 | Simultaneous connections: Unlimited

Incredibly fast
Unblocked everything in our tests
Unlimited connections
Pause VPN feature
Unclear virtual server locations
Windows kill switch is still buggy
No notification if your VPN drops
Subscribe if:

✔️ You want the best budget VPN: Surfshark is the perfect blend of cheap and cheerful, with lots of features, unbelievable speeds, and a reliable network—all at a low price.

✔️ You need a fast VPN: currently topping our charts with over 950 Mbps average speeds, Surfshark isn't just fast, it's faster than all of our top picks.

✔️ You want a cheap security suite: much like NordVPN, Surfshark comes with an array of internet security tools to keep you safe.

Don't subscribe if:

 You need a bulletproof kill switch: our testing showed some issues with Surfshark's kill switch. If an accidental IP leak could put you in danger, we'd recommend ExpressVPN or NordVPN.

❌ You need even more server locations: If 143 locations still isn't enough for you, you're better off with ExpressVPN.

Bottom line: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

🔒 Surfshark is an exceptional value-for-money VPN. With unparalleled speeds and unlimited simultaneous connections, you get a lot of VPN for a low price. Try for yourself and see why it's our favorite cheap VPN with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Want to know more?

Check out our in-depth Surfshark VPN review and see why the fastest VPN is also our #1 budget pick.

Surfshark isn't just the best cheap VPN, it's a whole security suite. With built-in ad-blocking, antivirus, tracker-free web browsing, and even a data breach notifier built in, it's premium protection without the price.

Surfshark recently launched its latest innovation, Incogni: a service that automatically requests the deletion of personal data stored by data brokers. I love this tool because it finally gives us the tools to reclaim our digital privacy from invasive data-tracking practices and companies.

Try Surfshark with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

With unlimited simultaneous connections, you can protect every device you own on a single subscription, as well as every device your friends and family own, too. Admittedly, we've not tried to test how many devices we could install Surfshark on, but that's because it would require everyone at TechRadar to spend all of their time installing the software until Surfshark asked us to stop—and that would take far too much time to do.

If you're one of the many Linux users looking to shore up their privacy with a VPN, you'll be glad to know that Surfshark has a dedicated Linux GUI for some of the most common distros. It's one of the few leading VPNs that offer more than the standard command-line interface for Linux, and it shows the genuine love and care the service has for its users.

Where Surfshark falls short, however, is its torrenting and unblocking capabilities. Once marketing itself as the VPN for streaming, it struggles to compete against the likes of NordVPN in recent tests. That said, it's not incapable. We were able to reliably unblock Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney Plus, HBO Max, and more in our latest round of tests.

Because of this amazing blend of capability, features, and immense speed, it's no surprise that Surfshark tops our charts for the best cheap VPN and the fastest VPN. It's the perfect pick for anyone looking to protect the devices of everyone they know.

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Surfshark test results:
AttributesNotesRating
DesignA simple app with a clear layout⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useA comfortable middle-ground between NordVPN and ExpressVPN⭐⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceOne of the fastest providers around⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingAnother full house—Surfshark keeps getting perfect scores in our unblocking tests⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyA much-improved antivirus tool, but the Windows kill switch can fail under very extreme circumstances⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer supportSupport site has come a long way⭐⭐⭐⭐
PriceSo much for so little—no one else can match the value⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The best VPN for Linux

Private Internet Access VPN apps running on Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS, and other platforms.

4. Private Internet Access (PIA)

The best VPN for Linux with a dedicated GUI for most distros

Streaming sites unblocked: US Netflix, Amazon, Disney Plus, Hulu, ITVX, Channel 4, 9Now, 10 play | Available on: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux (GUI), routers and more | 24/7 support: Yes | Refund period: 30 days | Number of servers: Over 20,000 | Server locations: Over 100 | Countries: 84 | Simultaneous connections: Unlimited

Port-forwarding support
Open-source apps
Lots of features and customization
Dedicated streaming servers
Apps can be difficult for beginners
Below-average WireGuard speeds
Subscribe if:

✔️ You want a VPN that's proven its claims: PIA is one of the only VPN services that can say it's proven its no-logs policy in court—not once, but twice.

✔️ You need a dedicated Linux GUI: with apps for the most popular distros and over 10 years in the industry, it's a long-standing favorite in the Linux community.

✔️ You need a customizable torrenting VPN: port-forwarding and a mountain of torrent-friendly servers make PIA an excellent pick for P2P file sharing.

Don't subscribe if:

 You want the easiest VPN to use: PIA's technical prowess is both a blessing and a curse, and its orientation towards technical users means that it isn't the easiest for absolute beginners.

❌ You want a built-in password manager: unlike ExpressVPN and NordVPN, PIA doesn't offer a password manager for users.

❌ You want the fastest VPN: PIA offers good speeds for torrenting and is comparable to ExpressVPN, but it is nowhere near the speeds on offer with NordVPN and Surfshark.

Bottom line: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

🔒 Private Internet Access is an industry veteran, and a long-standing favorite of privacy purists like myself. Put it to the test with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Want to know more?

Check out our in-depth Private Internet Access VPN review and see why this low-cost option is also great for Linux.

Private Internet Access has over a decade of experience in the industry and has outlasted the majority of its competition for one simple reason: it does exactly what it says on the tin. While most leading services will commission regular third-party audits, PIA goes a step further and makes its software open-source so anyone in the world can view, audit, and verify its privacy claims.

If that's not enough, PIA is perhaps the only VPN that has proven its no-logs claims in court, twice. When American authorities presented a warrant for information, PIA gave them absolutely nothing, because there was nothing to give in the first place. If you need a VPN that will genuinely protect your digital privacy, nothing gives peace of mind like having your policies proven true.

Try Private Internet Access on unlimited devices.

My favorite feature is the utterly enormous network on offer. There are tens of thousands of servers to connect to—giving you plenty of opportunities to access content in the country you want. Dedicated streaming servers make it easier to unblock your favorite shows around the world, and with more IPs on offer than any other pick on our list.

All subscriptions come with a free email breach scanner and Boxcryptor license to encrypt and secure your cloud storage. Both of these come as standard with all PIA subscriptions, and when you factor in that most competitors would charge extra for those same features, its value for money increases exponentially.

The mobile and tablet apps are easy enough to use and are absolutely rammed with features and security tools, but the desktop apps are better suited to more technical users. As such, it generally lacks that intuitive feel and attention to detail that comes with ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark. Plus, PIA is one of the few Linux VPN services with a GUI (visual app), rather than a simple command-line interface like ExpressVPN and NordVPN.

While it definitely suits advanced users best, PIA has an absolutely impeccable record and comes with built-in threat protection and ad-blocking functionality. It's easy to see why privacy purists are so fond of the service. 

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Private Internet Access test results:
AttributesNotesRating
DesignLots of customization, but could do with some decluttering⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useNot the best for beginners, but great for advanced users⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceGood speeds, but generally average compared to industry leaders⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingDedicated streaming servers and an enormous global network help you unblock anything and everything⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyThe latest and greatest in VPN tech, and a proven no-logging policy⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer supportA mass of knowledge online and expert support on-hand at all times⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PriceBudget-friendly and offering plenty of features that would normally cost you twice as much⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Other VPNs I've tested and recommend

Between myself and the team, we've conducted hundreds of VPN reviews over the years—so many that I've frankly lost count. Here are six more VPN providers that may not be the best overall, but they're excellent alternatives that I would still recommend.

Proton VPN apps running on Windows, Mac, iPhone and Android devices.

5. Proton VPN

A VPN that continues to advocate for internet freedom everywhere

Streaming sites unblocked: Netflix, Amazon, Disney, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, ITVX, Channel 4, 9Now, 10 play | Available on: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux (GUI), routers and more | 24/7 support: No | Refund period: 30 days - free version available | Number of servers: over 2,900 | Server locations: 85 | Countries: 67 | Simultaneous connections: 10

Open-source apps
Free plan with unlimited bandwidth
Improving speeds and coverage
Lots of free tools
Not the best value for money
Customer support needs improvement
WireGuard Windows connection time is slower than most
Subscribe if:

✔️ You need a free Linux VPN: Few VPNs offer serious Linux support, and Proton VPN is the only service to offer a GUI for freemium Linux users.

✔️ You want a totally unlimited free VPNif you need lots of data every month, ProtonVPN doesn't limit your monthly usage.

Don't subscribe if:

 You need a fast VPN: Windows connection speeds were a bit slow in our testing, so we'd recommend NordVPN or Surfshark if speed is a deal-breaker for you.

❌ You want lots of locations to choose from: while Proton VPN has improved greatly, it still offers a limited range of locations and countries to choose from—especially on its free plan.

Bottom line: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

🔒 Proton VPN is a well-known brand and a popular free Linux VPN that even offers protection for hackers on Kali.

Want to know more?

Check out our in-depth Proton VPN review and find out how it keeps up the fight for internet freedom.

Proton VPN is a big-name brand that regularly advocates for digital privacy rights around the world. With servers in 95 locations around the world, you can access your favorite streams with dedicated apps for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Android TV, and Chromebook. 

Trust is important when you're choosing a VPN provider, and Proton VPN does more than most to reassure you that your privacy is safe in its hands. You can pay anonymously via Bitcoin, even cash. Proton VPN's apps are open-source, allowing anyone to inspect the code, and they've been independently audited, too.

Try Proton VPN's unlimited free plan.

Technical privacy and security features start with strong encryption and Proton is investing in WireGuard so much that it's sunsetting OpenVPN and IKEv2 support on Mac. If you want to increase your anonymity, MultiHop VPN passes your traffic through several VPN server, and a rock-solid kill switch keeps your identity safe if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly.

Our test results saw Proton VPN peak at an average of over 950 Mbps for WireGuard—maxing out my testing line— and a well above average of 400 Mbps for OpenVPN traffic.

Proton VPN's support site still has some overly complicated articles, and although the company has added live chat, agents aren't always available. When you do get ahold of someone, though, we've found them to offer top-notch advice, and email questions usually get helpful replies within a few hours.

Proton VPN may focus on its privacy-protecting abilities, but it also knows how to have fun. Our latest tests allowed us hassle-free access to content from US, UK, Aussie, and Canadian Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney Plus, and BBC iPlayer. Unlike PrivadoVPN, Proton VPN doesn't offer the same unblocking reliability to both premium and free users, and Proton VPN's free servers couldn't unblock a single streaming service.

With Proton's calendar, password manager, secure email, and cloud storage tools you can create a whole security suite for yourself at a fraction of the cost of the competition. Many of Proton's apps have free versions for you to use, too.

Continuing its efforts to combat censorship around the world, Proton launched the VPN Observatory to monitor spikes in VPN usage. The Observatory uses that information to raise the alarm when sudden acts of censorship have taken place around the world.

Proton VPN isn't cheap, but it's open source and superbly transparent, with plenty of features and great unblocking abilities. Plus, a generous ten-device limit—more than the likes of Express or Nord—means it's likely you can connect and use all your devices at the same time.

Proton VPN being used on a Windows laptop

We found Proton VPN's clients to be "dependable, with only one connection drop during testing" (Image credit: Proton VPN)
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Proton VPN test results:
AttributesNotesRating
DesignDark and edgy, it's good if you want that "hacker" vibe⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useSimple and clear designs make it good for beginners⭐⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceIncredibly fast WireGuard speeds⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingUnblocked everything we threw at it⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyAudited and open-source so anyone can verify its claims⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer supportSupport articles are helpful and usually have plenty of images ⭐⭐⭐⭐
PriceExpensive compared to Surfshark and PIA, but still reasonable⭐⭐⭐

PrivadoVPN running on different devices

6. PrivadoVPN

The best free VPN in 2024

Streaming sites unblocked: Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max | Available on: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Smart TVs | 24/7 support: Website and email | Refund period: 30 days | Number of servers: over 300 | Server locations: 63 | Free locations: 13 | Countries: 48 | Simultaneous connections: 10

Unblocks plenty of streaming services
Excellent features, even on the free version
Fast WireGuard-powered apps
No security audits
Single-month plan is pricey
Fewer servers than Express, Nord and Surfshark
Subscribe if:

✔️ You need a reliable free service: PrivadoVPN doesn't hide its most important features behind a paywall like ProtonVPN, so you get a reliable service without spending a penny.

✔️ You want to stream Netflix: a dedicated geo-unblocking team means that even free users benefit from reliable US and UK Netflix unblocking.

Don't subscribe if:

 You want lots of server options: while the free service has 13 locations, it's still incredibly limited, and the same can be said for the premium service compared to the likes of PIA and Surfshark.

❌ You need more than 10 GB of data per month: PrivadoVPN's free service has a data limit on its uncapped server speeds, but after that's used up, you go into "over quota mode" where you're limited to 1 Mbps. If you need unlimited data for free, I recommend Proton VPN.

Bottom line: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

🔒 PrivadoVPN offers a decent mid-tier premium service, but it offers the best free plan available right now.

Want to know more?

Check out our in-depth PrivadoVPN review and see why this free service is so good at unblocking Netflix.

PrivadoVPN is a mid-tier premium VPN with an unbeatable free version. On a premium subscription, you get 10 simultaneous connections, a zero-logs policy, an ad blocker, parental controls, and even threat protection to help keep your devices safe from malware.

When it comes to the free version, some of these features are locked behind the enticing premium paywall. But you still get plenty of customization.

Try PrivadoVPN absolutely free.

Our latest round of testing showed a fantastic 950 Mbps download speed, which is more than enough for streaming in 4K, gaming online, and seamless torrenting. It even handles its own bandwidth and transit routes, so you get fantastic speeds and almost no server congestion—even on free servers.

I spoke with one of PrivadoVPN's representatives about how pleased I was that they offered WireGuard encryption on the free plan, and they responded with "Of course. We wouldn't want to lock something so important behind a paywall." This just goes to show how much they value users, regardless of whether or not they're premium customers.

Its easy-to-use apps allow for plenty of customization. You can utilize one-click connections and a kill switch to make sure you're always protected, even if your VPN connection drops.

PrivadoVPN has a dedicated geoblocking team, that constantly looks to bypass censorship and regional content restrictions. What's more, it doesn't make free users suffer with sub-par servers—making it one of the only free services that can reliably unblock US Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime. 

PrivadoVPN has yet to verify its privacy credentials with an independent audit. Privado told us that an audit would require months of standstill for development, and that would prevent them from delivering on the needs of their users. Privado plans to pursue an audit as soon as possible, but it needs to make sure it's offering the best service it can at all times. This admittedly feels a little hollow given the app doesn't feel as wholly polished as some of the competition.

I like that PrivadoVPN doesn't give you a reduced priority if you're a free user. If you find yourself stuck, Privado has 24/7 email and live chat support for customers—regardless of what plan they're on. In a cost-of-living crisis, it's refreshing to see a VPN provider go so far with its freemium plan. Digital privacy is a right and one that PrivadoVPN clearly defends.

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