VPNs (virtual private networks) have many different features and benefits, including keeping your browsing behavior private, masking your geographic location, bypassing blocked websites, and accessing online streaming services.
Make sure you have the most up-to-date VPN for your needs and are prepared for whatever 2023 brings.
But what are the most important factors to consider when comparing VPN services?
We've researched and compared several VPN providers based on the most important factors, such as privacy and security, speed, number of servers and locations, streaming and flooding, compatible software, and pricing plans.
Breaking Down our Top10 Choices: Which is Best For Your Needs:
- ExpressVPN – Fast and Secure Browsing
- NordVPN: best for good quality
- Perimeter 81 – Best for Powerful Network Security
- Surfshark: safe and affordable surfing
- Private Internet Access: Maximum Privacy Protection
- Norton Secure VPN – Strict Logging and Encryption Policy
- IPVanish – Fast, Reliable and Reasonably Priced VPN Service
- CyberGhost – Easy-to-use VPN
- ProtonVPN – Security and Anonymity
- UltraVPN – Unlimited Bandwidth and Military-Grade Encryption
Our Top 10 Best VPN Services & Software – Quick Reviews:
ExpressVPN
- Best for excellent speed
- Number of servers/locations 3000+
- Price Excellent speed
ExpressVPN is a name often heard in VPN circles. With a built-in speed test, you can choose the fastest servers, and since ExpressVPN has over 3,000 servers spread across 94 countries, there's plenty to choose from. ExpressVPN offers 24/7 live chat support, a huge benefit when your VPN crashes or you need quick help. Additionally, you can choose to route only a portion of the device's traffic through the VPN with the split tunneling feature.
Pros
- A trusted name in the industry
- 30 days money back guarantee
- Easy to use app
Cons
- More expensive than other services.
- Only 3 devices simultaneously
NordVPN
- The best for good quality at a reasonable price.
- Number of servers/locations 5500+
- Price Good quality at a reasonable price.
NordVPN is a secure VPN service based in Panama, a privacy-friendly country. This VPN service is known for its excellence in complete privacy, advanced security, and internet freedom. NordVPN does not keep any logs and, given its territory, the country's laws do not require it to do so. It has the largest VPN server network with 5500 servers in 59 countries around the world.
Pros
- Double Hop VPN Servers
- One of the cheapest plans that exist.
- 6 simultaneous connections
Cons
- Some servers are not as fast as others.
- No live chat
Perimeter 81
- Best for business users
- Number of servers/locations 18 countries
- PriceBusiness Users
Perimeter 81 is the industry-leading VPN and offers some of the best network security features I've seen. Built-in antimalware, ability to connect up to five devices and servers in 18 different countries.
Although it is a little expensive, it has a 30-day money back guarantee. I would recommend trying it if your business needs an easy-to-use and easy-to-deploy network security solution.
Why we chose Perimeter 81: We chose Perimeter 81 for its powerful network security features, advanced encryption, and enterprise-specific tools.
Our experience. We found Perimeter 81 to be very easy to set up and use. The interface is intuitive and easy to navigate, and the mobile and desktop apps are self-explanatory.
Pros
- Possible rapid implementation
- Friendly interface
- Advanced network security
Cons
- Expensive
- There is no free trial
Surfshark
- The best for safe browsing at a good price
- Number of servers/locations 1700+
- Price Safe sailing at a good price
Surfshark VPN is relatively new and has earned its place among the elite services. Located in the British Virgin Islands, Surfshark benefits from an area with no data retention laws and favorable data protection laws that ensure the safety of user information. Additionally, it has a strict no-logs policy and no identifying information is collected from users.
Pros
- Whitelist, multihop and stealth mode
- Blocks Netflix, Hulu and BBC iPlayer
- Extremely strong privacy and security features
Cons
- Email support could be faster
- There is no free trial
Private Internet Access
- The best to access all corners of the Internet.
- Number of servers/locations20,000 servers in 70+ countries
- PriceAccessing all corners of the Internet
Private Internet Access is a VPN service known for being the most anonymous VPN out there. They have an extensive network of servers (20,000 in over 70 countries!), a zero-logging policy, and software that is available on almost all operating systems with browser extensions to boot.
With PIA, you will not only be able to watch and download content at high speeds, but also browse safely. Private Internet Access provides alerts when a site may be dangerous to your data, integrates firewalls, IP leak protection and more for total security.
Pros
- Monitor Free Email Violation
- No content restrictions
- Anonymous payments
Cons
- Expensive monthly plan
- No free trials
Norton Secure VPN
- Best for Netflix streaming
- Number of servers/locations Servers in 29 countries
- PriceStreaming Netflix
Norton Secure VPN is attached to the Norton name, which means you get the infrastructure and customer support associated with an experienced industry heavyweight like Norton. NortonS VPN is seamless on desktop and mobile devices. The server count is lower than the competition, but features like unlimited bandwidth, OpenVPN protocols, a no-logs policy, and a 60-day money-back guarantee show that N S VPN has more than just a recognizable name.
Pros
- Known to successfully unblock Netflix
- Includes unlimited bandwidth
- Backed by a 60 day money back guarantee
Cons
- Fewer server options than competitors
- Strict no flooding policy
IPVanish
- Best for those who use multiple devices
- Number of servers/locations 1,600 servers in 75 locations
- PriceThose who use multiple devices
IPVanish is a great choice for a fast, affordable, reliable and secure VPN service anywhere in the world. From a solid money-back guarantee and competitively priced aircraft to unparalleled Tier 1 quality of service, IPVanish offers an impressive package for the industry.
Pros
- Connect unlimitedly
- Ultrafast connections
- anonymous torrents
Cons
- Live chat needs improvements and better hours.
- There is no free version (but there is a risk-free trial)
CyberGhost
- Best for customers looking for a VPN that is easy to use
- Number of servers/locations 6000+
- PriceClients is looking for a VPN that is easy to use
CyberGhost is a fast and secure VPN service owned by a privacy-focused company based in Bucharest, Romania. This VPN service has been around since 2011 and has a comprehensive understanding of what the digital world needs: internet freedom and privacy. CyberGhost VPN is more of a privacy solution and follows a strict no-logs policy. It contains many features to show its capabilities.
Pros
- Easy to use platform
- Works with Netflix US
- Low price plans
Cons
- Not a solid reputation
- Not all servers work for downloading torrents
ProtonVPN
- Best for security and anonymity
- Number of servers/location 347 servers in 31 countries
- Price Security and anonymity
ProtonVPN is a solid VPN that is really big on security and privacy. It comes with all the right features to protect you no matter what you do online. Privacy-conscious customers will appreciate features like a kill switch that will terminate your connection if the VPN server ever fails, even temporarily, DNS leak protection that prevents your DNA requests from being leaked, and strong encryption, including OpenVPN protocols. and AES. -256 encoding.
Pros
- Swiss supplier, absolutely uncut.
- Secure core, encrypted VPN tunnel, integrated TOR
- Unlimited bandwidth
Cons
- Not as many servers as some competitors.
- Only higher plans can access all features
UltraVPN
- The best for short-term economic plans
- Number of servers/locations 116 Number of servers in 61 locations
- Price Short-term economic plans
UltraVPN offers private and secure Internet access on over 100 servers in 61 countries. In a competitive market, UltraVPN stands out for its short-term plans. For example, their 1-month plan costs just $6.99, about half the price of the biggest VPN providers, while their six-month plan costs $4.99, which is also significantly cheaper than their larger competitors.
The VPN service has clients for Windows and MacOS and apps for iOS and Android. Setup is quick and easy, and the software only takes 30 seconds to download and install. Once you're logged in, you'll have VPN connections and a kill switch available with a single click.
Pros
- Competitive monthly and annual plans
- 30 days money back guarantee
- Easy-to-use clients/applications
Cons
- There is no free trial
- No browser extensions
Reviewing the Top VPN Services: Our Methodology
Top10.com VPN reviews are based on objective facts. Our reviews are based on the VPN provider's website, trusted third-party websites, customer reviews, and product usage through free trials or, in some cases, paid usage.
It is not always possible to use the product throughout its life. However, reviewers will attempt the registration process, make customer service inquiries to test response times, and perform any other functions possible during the review period.
For the rest of the information, we rely on what the brand says about its own product offering, customer reviews and complaints, ratings from independent agencies like BBB, and credible news publications.
Some of the key features we compared when analyzing the VPN services on our list were:
- Price:
- Number of servers
- Supported software
- Netflix access
- Withdrawal policy
What You Need to Know Before Choosing a VPN
The best VPN is the one you notice the least. So choosing a VPN is a little different than, say, buying a car. The most important factors (security, anonymity, reliability) are things that you will only notice when they are not appropriate.
Here are some basic questions you can ask yourself:
What will you use a VPN for? Are you planning to stream Netflix? Download torrents Avoid intrusive government censors? Make sure the VPN you choose can accommodate your intended use.
What level of privacy do you need? Different providers have different types of data encryption and privacy standards. Some guarantee a no-logging policy, while others may share some of your data with third parties. Decide how important it is to you and find the service that best suits your needs.
How many people will use it? VPN services can often be used by multiple people, although the number varies from provider to provider. Whether you have family, roommates, or are the only user, this can help you narrow down your options.
What Types of VPNs Are There?
Not all VPNs excel at the same things. The best VPN for Netflix, for example, is not necessarily the best VPN for downloading bittorrents. Some VPNs specialize in streaming, while others may be better for general anonymity, geo-spoofing, or Android users.
Are VPNs Safe and Secure?
Yes, although your security is only as strong as the VPN provider you choose. A reliable, well-reviewed VPN is reliable and more than capable of protecting you and keeping your internet activity private. However, there are questionable VPN providers and it is best to avoid them.
How can you know? Look for privacy and encryption standards. A good VPN service will have strong encryption protocols, well-defined privacy policies (such as no logging), and strong security features such as DNS leak protection.
Tips on VPN Providers
There are many options when it comes to VPN services. Narrow down those options by focusing on the most important features.
Look for a service with fast speeds to keep your connection smooth, strong security features to keep your connection private, and simple functionality so you can access and use your VPN without any problems. Also, look for one that offers P2P file sharing and make sure the price is right.
Here are a few more things to remember.
Don't settle for cheap. Listen, we all want to save money. Price is a reasonable criterion when purchasing any product or service. But you get what you pay for and, especially with VPNs, a cheap service can do you more harm than good. A bad VPN can give you the illusion of security, forcing you to be more free with your online activities, while in reality leaving you vulnerable. We're not saying you should go for the most expensive option. But don't let the price alone sway you. Privacy has value; If it's the difference between an unknown provider and a reputable one, it's worth a few extra dollars to make sure you're truly protected.
Customer service questions. Internet security is an important issue today and each of us must be proactive to ensure that our information is safe. A reliable and responsive customer support team is essential when you have concerns about your privacy or need to resolve an issue. And what's more, strong customer service is often a sign of a trustworthy company. Live chat support, 24/7 availability, and a list of FAQs are all positive signs that the provider has your back.
How Much Does A VPN Cost?
The average price of a legitimate VPN is around $4 per month. Some start at $2.50, while others can go up to $9.99 a month or more.
One thing to note is that the price varies depending on the length of the subscription. The same company might charge $3 a month if you buy a long-term subscription and $12 a month if you opt for a month. For example, purchasing a VPN for 2 years can dramatically reduce the price, while paying monthly can cause your monthly costs to skyrocket.
There are free VPNs available, although it is recommended to avoid them or approach them with caution. While a free VPN may be sufficient for extremely basic web tasks, it is unlikely to have the technological and security measures necessary to protect activities such as online banking, downloading, and streaming.
Other Brands We Reviewed
This list of 10 VPNs is compiled from companies that have chosen to partner with oneTop10.com. In total, we've reviewed over 50 brands in our VPN provider research, and we review new brands regularly. Curious about the prices and features of some great VPNs that don't appear on this list? Check out our detailed reviews of some of these big VPN names:
- Private internet access
- hotspot shield
- ProtonVPN:
- Strong VPN:
- Torguardia:
A VPN for Any Occasion
VPN services provide an invaluable service to anyone who uses the Internet. While people will choose to use a VPN for a variety of reasons, it will benefit the entire range of internet users, from casual users to Netflix fans, hardcore gamers and, of course, those who bank and shop online. Whether you're looking for more privacy or security, or want to access globally blocked content or download and share files, a VPN gives you the benefits you're looking for.