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class="jsx-1763518530 author-updated"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" class="jsx-1763518530 icon-tick"><use xlink:href="#svg-tick" class="jsx-1763518530"></use></svg><span class="jsx-1763518530">Updated Nov 8, 2024</span></time><div class="jsx-1763518530 author-main"><div class="jsx-1763518530 author-photo"><img alt="Callum Tennent's profile image" data-slug="callumtennent" width="32" height="32" decoding="async" data-nimg="1" class="" style="color:transparent" srcSet="/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.top10vpn.com%2Fimages%2F2022%2F12%2Fexpertbio-Callum5-small-opt.jpeg&w=32&q=75 1x, /_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.top10vpn.com%2Fimages%2F2022%2F12%2Fexpertbio-Callum5-small-opt.jpeg&w=64&q=75 2x" src="/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.top10vpn.com%2Fimages%2F2022%2F12%2Fexpertbio-Callum5-small-opt.jpeg&w=64&q=75"/></div><div class="jsx-1763518530 author-text"><div class="jsx-1763518530 author-name"><a href="/about/vpn-experts/callumtennent/" data-slug="callumtennent" class="jsx-1763518530">Callum Tennent</a></div><button aria-label="About the Authors" class="jsx-1763518530 author-toggle"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="18" height="18" class="jsx-1763518530 icon-chevron-down"><use xlink:href="#svg-chevron" class="jsx-1763518530"></use></svg></button></div></div><div class="jsx-1763518530 author-bio"><p class="jsx-1763518530 bio-authors">Callum Tennent oversees how we test and review VPN services. He's a member of the IAPP, and his VPN advice has featured in Forbes and the Internet Society.</p></div></div></div></div></div><div class="jsx-3071598375 container"><p class="jsx-3071598375 subhead">We put every VPN we review through an extensive and unbiased testing process. In this guide you’ll learn about our testing lab, how we evaluate VPNs, how our rating system works, and why you should trust our process.</p><video loop="" autoplay="" muted="" preload="auto" playsinline="" src="https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2022/10/hwr-video.mp4" class="jsx-3071598375 intro-video"></video></div><div class="jsx-3071598375 two-col-grid-wrapper"><div class="jsx-3071598375 two-col-grid-side"><div class="jsx-3071598375 jumplinks"><div class="jsx-3071598375 jumplinks-wrapper--mobile"><aside><div class="jsx-1509764618 "><div class="jsx-1509764618 "><div class="jsx-1509764618 top"><button class="jsx-1509764618 expand-sticky"><span class="jsx-1509764618 title-current">What's On This Page</span></button></div><ul class="jsx-1509764618 list"><li class="jsx-1509764618"><button class="jsx-1509764618 parent-trigger">Why Trust Our VPN Reviews<!-- --> <i class="jsx-1509764618 parent-icon"></i></button><ol class="jsx-1509764618 child-list"><li class="jsx-1509764618"><a href="#full-editorial-indie" class="jsx-1509764618">Fully Independent</a></li><li class="jsx-1509764618"><a href="#experts" class="jsx-1509764618">Expert Reviewers</a></li><li class="jsx-1509764618"><a href="#research" class="jsx-1509764618">Original Research</a></li><li class="jsx-1509764618"><a href="#up-to-date" class="jsx-1509764618">Up-to-Date Information</a></li><li class="jsx-1509764618"><a href="#testing-environment" class="jsx-1509764618">Consistent Testing Environment</a></li></ol></li><li class="jsx-1509764618"><button class="jsx-1509764618 parent-trigger">How We Test VPN Services<!-- --> <i class="jsx-1509764618 parent-icon"></i></button><ol class="jsx-1509764618 child-list"><li class="jsx-1509764618"><a href="#privacy-logging" class="jsx-1509764618">Privacy</a></li><li class="jsx-1509764618"><a href="#streaming" class="jsx-1509764618">Streaming</a></li><li class="jsx-1509764618"><a href="#speed" class="jsx-1509764618">Speed</a></li><li class="jsx-1509764618"><a 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class="jsx-1509764618 list"><li class="jsx-1509764618"><button class="jsx-1509764618 parent-trigger">Why Trust Our VPN Reviews<!-- --> <i class="jsx-1509764618 parent-icon"></i></button><ol class="jsx-1509764618 child-list"><li class="jsx-1509764618"><a href="#full-editorial-indie" class="jsx-1509764618">Fully Independent</a></li><li class="jsx-1509764618"><a href="#experts" class="jsx-1509764618">Expert Reviewers</a></li><li class="jsx-1509764618"><a href="#research" class="jsx-1509764618">Original Research</a></li><li class="jsx-1509764618"><a href="#up-to-date" class="jsx-1509764618">Up-to-Date Information</a></li><li class="jsx-1509764618"><a href="#testing-environment" class="jsx-1509764618">Consistent Testing Environment</a></li></ol></li><li class="jsx-1509764618"><button class="jsx-1509764618 parent-trigger">How We Test VPN Services<!-- --> <i class="jsx-1509764618 parent-icon"></i></button><ol class="jsx-1509764618 child-list"><li class="jsx-1509764618"><a href="#privacy-logging" class="jsx-1509764618">Privacy</a></li><li class="jsx-1509764618"><a href="#streaming" class="jsx-1509764618">Streaming</a></li><li class="jsx-1509764618"><a href="#speed" class="jsx-1509764618">Speed</a></li><li class="jsx-1509764618"><a href="#security" class="jsx-1509764618">Security</a></li><li class="jsx-1509764618"><a href="#server-locations" class="jsx-1509764618">Server Locations</a></li><li class="jsx-1509764618"><a href="#ease-of-use" class="jsx-1509764618">User Experience</a></li><li class="jsx-1509764618"><a href="#torrenting" class="jsx-1509764618">Torrenting</a></li><li class="jsx-1509764618"><a href="#device-compatibility" class="jsx-1509764618">Device Compatibility</a></li><li class="jsx-1509764618"><a href="#additional-features" class="jsx-1509764618">Additional Features</a></li></ol></li></ul></div></div></aside></div><div class="jsx-3071598375"></div></div></div><div class="jsx-3071598375 two-col-grid-main"><section id="why-you-should-trust-our-vpn-reviews" class="jsx-2580530280 block-text two-col-grid-container"><h2 class="heading-2">Why You Should Trust Our VPN Reviews</h2><div><p>All 61 VPNs on our website have been thoroughly tested using our extensive and fair testing program, ensuring consistency and comparability of our results.</p> <p>We’ve designed this system to make sure we only recommend the <a href="https://www.top10vpn.com/best-vpn/">very best VPN services</a>.</p> <p>We selected these 61 VPNs after analyzing mobile app store data to identify the <a href="https://www.top10vpn.com/research/global-mobile-vpn-report/#top-mobile-vpn-services">most popular VPNs</a>, and by considering those frequently referred to by <a href="https://vpnalyzer.org/survey2022.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">other industry experts</a>.</p> <p>Our VPN testing process is fully transparent. Each VPN review includes its rating in every category. Our findings are also reproducible; by following our testing process, you can replicate our findings yourself.</p> <h3 id="full-editorial-indie">1. Fully Independent</h3> <p>At Top10VPN.com we pride ourselves on genuine, 100% editorial independence. What does that mean?</p> <div class="block-highlighted block-highlighted--light"> <ul class="icon-list icon-list-cross"> <li><b>We will never</b> accept money to review a VPN.</li> <li><b>We will never</b> accept money to improve the review rating of a VPN.</li> <li><b>We will never</b> accept a test account from a VPN service.</li> </ul> </div> <div class="horizontal-content"> <h4 class="heading-5 left">No conflict of interest</h4> <div class="right"> <p>Unlike many other VPN review websites, we are independently-owned and entirely separate from every VPN service. There’s no potential for conflicts of interest and there is no pressure from financial stakeholders to alter reviews.</p> </div> </div> <div class="horizontal-content"> <h4 class="heading-5 left">Singular focus on VPNs</h4> <div class="right"> <p>We are <b>entirely focused on VPN services and issues of online privacy and security</b>. We have no interest in reviewing or covering products in other areas. This means that we can dedicate all of our time and resources towards creating the best possible <a href="/reviews/">VPN reviews</a> and advice for you.</p> </div> </div> <div class="horizontal-content"> <h4 class="heading-5 left">Our subscriptions are self-funded</h4> <div class="right"> <p>In the interest of total impartiality we also <b>purchase our own subscriptions to every VPN we test</b>. Since the company was founded in 2016, Top10VPN.com has spent over $25,000 on VPN subscriptions alone.</p> </div> </div> <div class="horizontal-content"> <h4 class="heading-5 left">Supported by our readers</h4> <div class="right"> <p>We are completely funded by you, our readers. We’ve provided an in-depth, transparent explanation of <a href="https://www.top10vpn.com/about/how-we-make-money/">how we make money</a> if you want to know all the details.</p> </div> </div> <h3 id="experts">2. Expert Reviewers</h3> <p>Our VPN reviews and guides are all written by our on-staff <a href="https://www.top10vpn.com/about/vpn-experts/">VPN experts</a>, who have years of experience and in-depth knowledge of the VPN industry.</p> <div class="block-highlighted block-highlighted--light"> <p><b>Here’s a brief description of our authors and their experience in the VPN industry:</b></p> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.top10vpn.com/about/vpn-experts/simonmigliano/">Simon Migliano</a>, whose cybersecurity research has been featured in dozens of leading news publications. His ongoing research into internet shutdowns is regularly cited in public policy documents and academic papers.</li> <li><a href="https://www.top10vpn.com/about/vpn-experts/jpjones/">JP Jones</a>, who has over 25 years of software engineering and networking experience. His extensive knowledge of VPN protocols and network security has been shared in several online publications.</li> <li><a href="https://www.top10vpn.com/about/vpn-experts/callumtennent/">Callum Tennent</a>, who has years of experience in product testing, having supervised and conducted unbiased testing on a range of tech products and coordinated product testing for a range of global publications.</li> </ul> </div> <p>We also have an <b>in-house team of product review experts</b>, including engineers, data analysts, and web censorship specialists, who gather data and assist with content production. The reviews and advice you see on the website are the result of their combined efforts.</p> <div id="attachment_751167" style="width: 1178px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img aria-describedby="caption-attachment-751167" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-751167" src="https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2022/10/img_team.jpeg" alt="The seven members of the Top10VPN.com testing team, posing and smiling for the camera" width="1168" height="778"><p id="caption-attachment-751167" class="wp-caption-text">Our VPN testing team.</p></div> <h3 id="research">3. Original Research</h3> <p>Unlike many other VPN review websites, <b>we conduct our own testing and research to evaluate a VPN’s performance</b>. Our reviews are the result of extensive hands-on testing and analysis using a range of primary and third-party tools.</p> <div id="attachment_1246952" style="width: 2010px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1246952" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-1246952 size-full" src="https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2023/11/d7FfEu9N-Top10VPN-Speed-Test-Tool.webp" alt="A man at a desk tests a VPN's speed performance on a laptop and analyzes a spreadsheet of speed test results on an iMac." width="2000" height="1332"><p id="caption-attachment-1246952" class="wp-caption-text">We manually conduct every VPN speed test.</p></div> <p>For example, we use our custom-built VPN kill switch testing tool to stress test every VPN’s kill switch. Our findings from this research have been adopted by many VPNs, including PrivateVPN, to enhance their product security.</p> <p>You can find more information on our VPN testing methodology in the <a href="#test-methodology">dedicated section of this page</a>.</p> <h3 id="up-to-date">4. Up-to-Date Information</h3> <p>A VPN’s performance can vary significantly over time. For example, even if it unblocks US Netflix one week, it may not work the following week. Additionally, VPN services are constantly adding new features to respond to new security threats.</p> <p>To ensure our VPN reviews remain accurate and relevant, our team is continually retesting VPN services and updating our content. Every VPN review we publish is updated on a weekly basis for the rest of its lifespan. An initial review may involve upwards of 40 hours of testing, but we spend many more hours each month updating it.</p> <div id="attachment_963141" style="width: 1210px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img aria-describedby="caption-attachment-963141" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-963141 size-full" src="https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2023/05/top10vpn-continual-testing.png" alt="Database of VPN testing results, showing the frequency of tests." width="1200" height="1045"><p id="caption-attachment-963141" class="wp-caption-text">We test each VPN every week to ensure our data is accurate and reliable.</p></div> <p>Our VPN experts are intimately familiar with every VPN reviewed on the website. They are constantly retesting VPN speeds, checking if they can still unblock streaming services, updating key information and pricing plans, and dozens of other data points.</p> <h3 id="testing-environment">5. Consistent Testing Environment</h3> <p>To ensure that our VPN reviews are both fair and directly comparable, we conduct all of our tests in a consistent environment. This means that every VPN is tested hands-on from New York using standardized hardware, running the latest OS release.</p> <p>Additionally, every VPN is tested in an independent virtual machine to prevent interaction with other installed software and limit the potential for inaccurate results. This approach improves the consistency and comparability of our test results.</p> <div class="block-highlighted block-highlighted--light"> <p><b>Here’s a list of some of the test devices we use:</b></p> <ul class="columns-2"> <li>Lenovo T480 (Windows 10 & Ubuntu Linux 20.04)</li> <li>MacBook Air (macOS Sonoma)</li> <li>Pixel 7 Pro (Android 14)</li> <li>iPhone 14 Pro (iOS 17)</li> <li>Amazon Fire TV Stick (FireOS 8)</li> <li>Apple TV 4K (tvOS 17)</li> <li>Chromecast with Google TV</li> <li>Sony PS5</li> <li>Linksys WRT3200ACM</li> </ul> </div> <div id="attachment_751197" style="width: 1178px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img aria-describedby="caption-attachment-751197" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-751197" src="https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2022/10/img_devices_A.jpeg" alt="A series of tech products lined up, including computers and streaming devices" width="1168" height="780"><p id="caption-attachment-751197" class="wp-caption-text">The full range of devices we use for testing VPNs.</p></div> <p>Using this standardized collection of devices allows us to control for any variables relating to the performance of the device being used. Instead, any performance differences we record can be attributed solely to the VPN.</p> </div></section><section id="vpn-test-&-rating-methodology" class="jsx-2580530280 block-text two-col-grid-container"><h2 class="heading-2">VPN Test & Rating Methodology</h2><div><p id="test-methodology">We use two categories of ratings for VPN services: <a href="#overall">overall ratings</a> and <a href="#use-case">use case ratings</a>.</p> <p>Overall ratings evaluate a VPN service based on a standardized set of criteria that’s applicable to all users. While use case ratings are tailored evaluations for specific requirements, such as a particular device or region.</p> <h2 id="overall">Overall Ratings</h2> <p>An overall rating, which you see on <a href="https://www.top10vpn.com/reviews/">all VPN reviews</a>, is based on a fixed set of nine testing categories. You can see a quick overview of each category, along with its respective weight in percentage terms, in the chart below:</p> <p><picture><source media="(max-width: 768px)" srcset="https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2024/11/m-piechart-overall-vpn-methodology-v2.webp"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-1667763 size-full" src="https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2024/11/d-piechart-overall-vpn-methodology-v2.webp" alt="Pie showing the breakdown of Top10VPN's ratings system. Privacy: 20%, Security, Speed, & Streaming are 15% each; Server Locations & User Experience are 10% each; Torrenting, Device Compatibility, Additional Features are 5% each." width="1520" height="938"></picture></p> <p>In the sections below we describe in detail how we rigorously test VPN services in each of our nine testing categories. We’ll also provide information on how our research findings are converted into a numerical rating out of 10.</p> <h3 id="privacy-logging">1. Privacy (20% of Overall Rating)</h3> <p>A VPN’s logging policy is one of its most important attributes. If too much of your data is logged then you could be exposed if a hacker or court gains access to your VPN’s servers.</p> <h4>How We Test</h4> <p><b>We read every word of a logging policy</b> to fully understand exactly what each VPN logs, where it’s stored, and how long for.</p> <p>Each data point is listed and sorted into a category for how long it’s retained, ranging from just the session duration to indefinitely.</p> <p>Then, we note the VPN’s jurisdiction, any past controversies, and whether it has any features that help maintain a user’s privacy. The most important of these is diskless servers, as they do not store data of any sort beyond the duration of the VPN session.</p> <p>To maintain consistency, we have multiple testers independently examine the policy to minimize the possibility of human error.</p> <div id="attachment_122806" style="width: 2570px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img aria-describedby="caption-attachment-122806" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-122806 size-full" src="https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2020/04/Screenshot-from-the-CyberGhost-Privacy-Policy.png" alt="Screenshot from the CyberGhost Privacy Policy" width="2560" height="1504"><p id="caption-attachment-122806" class="wp-caption-text">Screenshot from the CyberGhost Privacy Policy.</p></div> <h4>How We Rate</h4> <p>We use a custom-built calculator to provide accurate and objective ratings.</p> <div class="block-highlighted block-highlighted--blue"> <p><b>The logging policy and privacy category is divided into the following subcategories:</b></p> <ul> <p></p> <li>Data Logged: 60%</li> <p> </p> <li>History: 20%</li> <p> </p> <li>Jurisdiction: 10%</li> <p> </p> <li>Trustworthiness: 5%</li> <p> </p> <li>Privacy-Enhancing Features: 5%</li> </ul> </div> <p>Every logging policy begins with a 10/10 rating. As we enter the logged data into the calculator, it automatically subtracts points depending on the severity of the issue. For example, account information that cannot be linked to online activity results in a deduction of only 0.1 points.</p> <p>However, connection timestamps or total bandwidth consumed are considered more serious and will detract 0.5 points. The worst types of logs, such as indefinitely retaining DNS requests or your true IP address, will instantly drop the rating by 9.9.</p> <div class="block-highlighted block-highlighted--light"> <p><b>Our comprehensive privacy and logging policy rating calculator can’t be entirely detailed on this page, but the following ranges give a general overview of what a rating means:</b></p> <ul> <p></p> <li><b>0.1 – 3.0: Severe privacy concerns</b>. The VPN logs substantial amounts of personally identifiable information, putting your anonymity at serious risk.</li> <p> </p> <li><b>3.1 – 5.9: Significant privacy concerns</b>. The VPN logs more data than desirable and retains it for too long. A poor choice of jurisdiction may further increase the risk to your anonymity.</li> <p> </p> <li><b>6.0 – 7.9: Medium privacy concerns</b>. The amount of data logged, the way it’s stored, and how long it’s stored for are not perfect. The jurisdiction may not be optimal for privacy, and there may be insufficient evidence of its privacy commitments, such as audits or court records.</li> <p> </p> <li><b>8.0 – 9.4: High degree of privacy</b>. The VPN maintains a minimal logging policy and is likely to operate in a privacy haven. It may have undergone audits or provided evidence in court to validate its privacy policy claims.</li> <p> </p> <li><b>9.5+: Best-in-class privacy measures</b>. The VPN has an exceptional logging policy, retaining only very minimal metadata, if any, for a short duration. It either operates under a private jurisdiction, uses diskless servers, has undergone multiple third-party audits, or has demonstrated its privacy commitments in court.</li> </ul> </div> <h3 id="streaming">2. Streaming (15% of Overall Rating)</h3> <p>Streaming performance measures the ability of a VPN to consistently access geo-blocked content platforms, such as Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu.</p> <h4>How We Test</h4> <p>To test streaming performance, we simply connect to a VPN server in the necessary region and attempt to watch content. We ensure that the video loads properly, the audio and video are in sync, and there is no interruption before qualifying it as a successful result.</p> <div id="attachment_1601437" style="width: 2570px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1601437" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-1601437 size-full" src="https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2024/09/surfshark-streaming-peacock-scaled.webp" alt="Testing Surfshark with Peacock" width="2560" height="1704"><p id="caption-attachment-1601437" class="wp-caption-text">Each VPN service is individually tested with dozens of streaming services.</p></div> <p>We have accounts with 120 popular streaming services from around the world.</p> <p>We follow a set schedule where each VPN is tested weekly with the most popular services, like US Netflix and BBC iPlayer, whereas less popular services are tested once a month.</p> <p>We use this data to track each VPN’s percentage success rate over the last three and 12 months. This gives us a measurement of how reliable the VPN is with each particular streaming service.</p> <div class="block-highlighted block-highlighted--light"> <b>Here is a list of all the streaming services we regularly test:</b><p></p> <ul> <p></p> <li>BBC iPlayer (UK)</li> <p> </p> <li>DAZN (Canada)</li> <p> </p> <li>Disney+ (UK)</li> <p> </p> <li>Hulu (US)</li> <p> </p> <li>ITVX (UK)</li> <p> </p> <li>Max (US)</li> <p> </p> <li>Netflix (US)</li> <p> </p> <li>Netflix (UK)</li> <p> </p> <li>Prime Video (US)</li> <p> </p> <li>Sky Go (UK)</li> </ul> </div> <h4>How We Rate</h4> <div class="block-highlighted block-highlighted--light"> <p><b>Here is the scoring system we use to calculate a VPN’s streaming rating:</b></p> <ul> <p></p> <li><b>0.1 – 0.9:</b> Doesn’t work with any streaming service</li> <p> </p> <li><b>1.0 – 3.9:</b> Works with US Netflix or BBC iPlayer</li> <p> </p> <li><b>4.0 – 6.9:</b> Works with both US Netflix and BBC iPlayer</li> <p> </p> <li><b>7.0 – 8.9:</b> Works with multiple streaming services, such as Hulu, HBO Max, and Prime Video</li> <p> </p> <li><b>9.0 – 9.8:</b> Works with all tested services</li> <p> </p> <li><b>9.9 – 10.0:</b> Consistently works with every service</li> </ul> </div> <p>Our scoring system allows our testers to evaluate the VPN’s performance using qualitative metrics, such as video quality, load time, and buffering, and award points within a range.</p> <h3 id="speed">3. Speed (15% of Overall Rating)</h3> <p>A VPN’s speed is a measurement of how quickly it can download and upload data to and from the internet. A fast VPN allows you to access web pages and stream videos more quickly and without interruption.</p> <h4>How We Test</h4> <p>We measure a VPN’s speeds using a proprietary speed test tool. We don’t use any third party tools, as these can produce inaccurate results.</p> <p>Using our 100Mbps connection, we record the speed when connected to VPN servers in eight countries across five continents. These servers are located in: West and East Coast US, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Germany, Japan, South Africa, and the UK.</p> <p>We manually perform these tests three times a week for a month, totaling 12 results per server location. We then calculate the average speed to reduce the impact of any anomalous results.</p> <div id="attachment_949703" style="width: 1010px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img aria-describedby="caption-attachment-949703" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-949703 size-full" src="https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2023/05/speed-test-expressvpn.png" alt="Testing ExpressVPN's internet speeds using our proprietary speed testing tool." width="1000" height="631"><p id="caption-attachment-949703" class="wp-caption-text">Each VPN is tested manually using our proprietary VPN speed test tool.</p></div> <h4>How We Rate</h4> <p>The rating for this is based entirely on the data we collect. We input the raw speed figures into our custom-built calculator, which automatically calculates an overall speed rating out of 10.</p> <div class="block-highlighted block-highlighted--blue"> <p><b>This category is divided into the following subcategories:</b></p> <ul> <p></p> <li><b>Download Speed: 80%</b> <ul> <p></p> <li>Local (US East Coast): 40%</li> <p> </p> <li>US (West Coast): 10%</li> <p> </p> <li>UK: 10%</li> <p> </p> <li>Australia: 5%</li> <p> </p> <li>Brazil: 5%</li> <p> </p> <li>Canada: 5%</li> <p> </p> <li>Japan: 5%</li> </ul> </li> <p> </p> <li><b>Upload Speed Local (US East Coast): 10%</b></li> <p> </p> <li><b>Ping: 10%</b> <ul> <p></p> <li>Local (US East Coast): 6%</li> <p> </p> <li>UK: 4%</li> </ul> </li> </ul> </div> <p>Download speed has a higher weighting as it impacts the vast majority of web activity, like streaming video. We also give higher importance to local connections, as they are used most often.</p> <p>For each location, a VPN starts with a speed rating of zero and we award points based on its performance.</p> <p>For example, a VPN can earn the maximum of 40 points for its local server speed if its speed is above 95Mbps, 36 points between 94-90Mbps, 32 points between 89-85Mbps, and so on. A VPN won’t get any points for this location if its speed is below 25Mbps.</p> <div class="block-highlighted block-highlighted--light"> <p><b>Our comprehensive speed rating calculator can’t be entirely detailed on this page, but the following ranges give a general overview of what a rating means:</b></p> <ul> <p></p> <li><b>0.1 – 3.9: Extremely poor performance</b> with both download and upload speeds significantly reduced (80% or more below baseline connection speeds) across all tested servers. Ping times are also consistently high (over 200 ms).</li> <p> </p> <li><b>4.0 – 4.9: Poor performance</b> characterized by a severe reduction in download and upload speeds (60-80% below baseline connection speeds) on most tested servers. Ping times may be moderately high (between 150-200 ms).</li> <p> </p> <li><b>5.0 – 6.9: Average performance</b> where download and upload speeds are reduced (30-60% below baseline connection speeds). Ping times are acceptable (between 100-150 ms).</li> <p> </p> <li><b>7.0 – 8.9: Good performance</b> with minor speed reduction (10-30% below baseline connection speeds). Ping times are low (below 100 ms) on most tested servers.</li> <p> </p> <li>9.0 – 9.8: Excellent performance. Speed reduction is negligible (less than 10% below baseline connection speeds) across all tested servers. Ping times are extremely low (below 50 ms).</li> <p> </p> <li><b>9.9 – 10.0: Outstanding performance</b>. Almost no detectable speed reduction (less than 5% below baseline connection speeds) and extremely low ping times (below 10 ms) across all tested servers.</li> </ul> </div> <h3 id="security">4. Security (15% of Overall Rating)</h3> <p>One of a VPN’s primary functions is to provide an encrypted connection that prevents unauthorized monitoring of your network activity. Insufficient security measures could expose you to various risks, including data breaches and man-in-the-middle attacks.</p> <h4>How We Test</h4> <p>We use the following tools to assess the security and technical features of a VPN:</p> </div><div id="633ed6b922fee" class="jsx-3376757649 collapsible-content-group"><details class="jsx-3376757649"><summary class="jsx-3376757649 "><h3 id="wireshark" class="heading-5 collapsible-content-group-heading">Wireshark</h3><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="24" height="24" class="jsx-3376757649 icon-chevron-down"><use xlink:href="#svg-chevron" class="jsx-3376757649"></use></svg></summary><div class="jsx-2580530280 block-text collapsible-content-group-body"><div><p>We test VPN connection protocols and encryption using the Wireshark tool: AES-256 encryption is the industry standard, although AES-128 is acceptable, too.</p> <p>For protocols, OpenVPN or the newer WireGuard are the safest and fastest, but IKEv2 is also a good alternative.</p> <p>When turned on, a VPN should show nothing but encrypted traffic within Wireshark. If anything else is discoverable, then at some point the VPN has failed.</p> </div></div></details><details class="jsx-3376757649"><summary class="jsx-3376757649 "><h3 id="in-house-ip-&-dns-leak-test-tool" class="heading-5 collapsible-content-group-heading">In-House IP & DNS Leak Test Tool</h3><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="24" height="24" class="jsx-3376757649 icon-chevron-down"><use xlink:href="#svg-chevron" class="jsx-3376757649"></use></svg></summary><div class="jsx-2580530280 block-text collapsible-content-group-body"><div><p>We also use our VPN leak test tool to make sure that the VPN is functioning correctly, then cross-reference those results with a third party website for accuracy (like <a href="http://ipleak.net" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ipleak.net</a> or <a href="http://dnsleaktest.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">dnsleaktest.com</a>).</p> </div></div></details><details class="jsx-3376757649"><summary class="jsx-3376757649 "><h3 id="in-house-vpn-kill-switch-test-tool" class="heading-5 collapsible-content-group-heading">In-House VPN Kill Switch Test Tool</h3><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="24" height="24" class="jsx-3376757649 icon-chevron-down"><use xlink:href="#svg-chevron" class="jsx-3376757649"></use></svg></summary><div class="jsx-2580530280 block-text collapsible-content-group-body"><div><p>While we test plenty of auxiliary features, only one is a must have – the VPN kill switch. We test this using our in-house tool. It absolutely must work to prevent IP leaks when a connection to the internet is unexpectedly lost.</p> <p>Gaps in protection when changing server locations are not ideal, but can be excused if there is prior warning within the VPN app.</p> </div></div></details><details class="jsx-3376757649"><summary class="jsx-3376757649 "><h3 id="ad-&-tracker-blocker-test-tool" class="heading-5 collapsible-content-group-heading">Ad & Tracker Blocker Test Tool</h3><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="24" height="24" class="jsx-3376757649 icon-chevron-down"><use xlink:href="#svg-chevron" class="jsx-3376757649"></use></svg></summary><div class="jsx-2580530280 block-text collapsible-content-group-body"><div><p>Many VPNs now offer either an ad blocker, tracker blocker, or both. To test their efficacy we use <a href="https://d3ward.github.io/toolz/adblock.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">d3ward’s excellent open source test tool on GitHub</a>.</p> <p>It runs dozens of tests to determine what ads and trackers a VPN can block, and which it can’t. It then provides a percentage score to let us know how well the blocker works.</p> </div></div></details></div><div><h4>How We Rate</h4> <p>We have a checklist of essential features that significantly affect a VPN’s rating in this category. The most critical is the availability of OpenVPN or WireGuard protocols and an option of either AES-256 or ChaCha20 encryption.</p> <p>Based on our test findings, we award significant points to VPNs that successfully encrypt all web traffic as proven by Wireshark, prevent IP leaks during connection drops, and block malicious URLs from loading in our ad and tracker blocker test.</p> <p>In addition to these, we evaluate a range of other technical features, including dedicated IP addresses, multi-hop servers, split tunneling, and Tor over VPN.</p> <div class="block-highlighted block-highlighted--light"> <p><b>Our comprehensive security and technical features rating calculator can’t be entirely detailed on this page, but the following ranges give a general overview of what a rating means:</b></p> <ul> <p></p> <li><b>0.1 – 3.0: Severe security concerns</b>. Fails to encrypt data, leaks IP or DNS requests, and lacks critical security features like a VPN kill switch.</li> <p> </p> <li><b>3.1 – 5.9: Substantial security concerns</b>. May use outdated protocols, fail leak tests, and have only a basic selection of security features.</li> <p> </p> <li><b>6.0 – 7.9: Moderate security</b>. Functional but lacks advanced features such as diverse protocols and advanced encryption. Includes a working kill switch.</li> <p> </p> <li><b>8.0 – 9.4: Robust security</b>. Uses open-sourced protocols and either ChaCha20 or AES-256 encryption. The VPN will have passed leak tests and include working features like a kill switch and split tunneling.</li> <p> </p> <li><b>9.5+: Exceptional security</b>. These VPNs are best-in-class, consistently providing a wide array of the safest and fastest protocols and unbreakable encryption. They often come with integrated beneficial features or offer a range of optional extras and have open-sourced applications for transparency.</li> </ul> </div> <h3 id="server-locations">5. Server Locations (10% of Overall Rating)</h3> <p>Server locations judges the availability and diversity of IP address locations provided by the VPN. Being able to connect to more countries directly influences your ability to access region-specific content and to maintain fast connection speeds.</p> <h4>How We Test</h4> <p>To test a VPN’s server network, we examine the server list on its website and within its apps. Then, we document how many total servers it has, how many countries you can connect to, and how many city-level locations it offers.</p> <p>All this data is compiled into a table separated by continents, giving us a view of how well distributed the servers are around the world.</p> <div id="attachment_949109" style="width: 1380px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img aria-describedby="caption-attachment-949109" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-949109 size-full" src="https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2023/05/tunnelbear-server-locations-2023.jpg" alt="Image of Server list on TunnelBear's website." width="1370" height="1252"><p id="caption-attachment-949109" class="wp-caption-text">We study the server list of every VPN on its website and verify it within the software.</p></div> <h4>How We Rate</h4> <div class="block-highlighted block-highlighted--light"> <p><b>Here is our scoring system for calculating a VPN’s server locations rating:</b></p> <ul> <p></p> <li><b>0.1 – 0.9:</b> Single fixed server location.</li> <p> </p> <li><b>1.1 – 1.5:</b> Single dynamic server location.</li> <p> </p> <li><b>1.6 – 5.9:</b> 2-6 country locations.</li> <p> </p> <li><b>6.0 – 6.9:</b> 6-12 country locations.</li> <p> </p> <li><b>7.0 – 7.9:</b> 12-20 country locations.</li> <p> </p> <li><b>8.0 – 8.9:</b> 21-40 country locations.</li> <p> </p> <li><b>9.0 – 9.9:</b> More than 40 countries, up to 20 city-level locations, up to 1,000 total servers.</li> <p> </p> <li><b>9.9 – 10.0:</b> More than 40 countries, more than 20 city-level locations, more than 1,000 total servers.</li> </ul> </div> <p>Our server location rating methodology is based on quantifiable metrics, such as the number of countries and total count of servers.</p> <p>However, we maintain a small level of flexibility within each scoring range to incorporate qualitative factors based on the personal judgment of our team. These include the relative popularity of the locations, and the balance between physical and virtual server locations.</p> <h3 id="ease-of-use">6. User Experience (10% of Overall Rating)</h3> <p>User experience is a measurement of how simple, user-friendly, and intuitive the experience of using a VPN’s software is.</p> <h4>How We Test</h4> <p>All of the <b>testing for user experience is conducted while using the VPN in everyday contexts</b>. Given the nature of the metric, we do not perform a specific test to measure its performance.</p> <p>During our 40+ hours of initial testing, we document various intangibles that affect the overall user experience, including how the VPN feels to use, how easy it is to navigate, server sorting options, and the clarity of labels.</p> <p>With this rating, we capture how enjoyable it is to use the VPN across multiple platforms, including desktop, mobile, streaming devices, and routers.</p> <div id="attachment_1406975" style="width: 2510px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1406975" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-1406975 size-full" src="https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2024/02/Surfshark-Server-List-on-iOS-1.webp" alt="Surfshark VPN Server List on IOS" width="2500" height="1664"><p id="caption-attachment-1406975" class="wp-caption-text">We use every VPN over an extended period to assess how pleasant it is to use.</p></div> <h4>How We Rate</h4> <p>Unlike every other category, ease of use does not rely on a data-based calculator. The scoring methodology is primarily qualitative, based on our testers’ hands-on experience and judgment of the product. However, to minimize the risk of bias, <b>multiple testers are used</b>.</p> <p>We incorporate some measurable metrics, too, including setup time, number of clicks required for common tasks, and number of CAPTCHAs encountered while web browsing. We also reward VPNs that provide a helpful onboarding experience.</p> <p>To gain substantial points, the VPN will have to be extremely intuitive to use across a broad range of platforms. Having an app for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android is the bare minimum – there should also be apps for Linux, Fire TV, or router.</p> <p>To score low in this category, we’d have to have difficulty installing or signing up to the service, struggle to work the app in day-to-day use, or encounter regular bugs.</p> <h3 id="torrenting">7. Torrenting (5% of Overall Rating)</h3> <p>In our torrenting tests, we measure the ability of a VPN to securely and reliably hide your P2P file-sharing activity from your ISP and other third parties, while providing quick download speeds.</p> <h4>How We Test</h4> <p>To assess a VPN’s torrenting ability, we conduct a controlled test. Using our fixed 10MiB/s internet connection and a Windows virtual machine, we download a 1GB torrent file from a private torrent tracker while connected to the nearest VPN server.</p> <p>We use qBittorrent as our torrenting client, and we download our own custom-made 1GB test file from a fixed-speed host to keep our results consistent.</p> <div id="attachment_877850" style="width: 1354px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img aria-describedby="caption-attachment-877850" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-877850 size-full" src="https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2023/04/ipvanish-windows-torrenting.jpg" alt="Anonymously torrenting with IPVanish" width="1344" height="780"><p id="caption-attachment-877850" class="wp-caption-text">Every VPN goes through our standardized torrenting test..</p></div> <h4>How We Rate</h4> <p>To evaluate a VPN’s torrenting performance, we use a purely mathematical equation that takes into account five key criteria.</p> <div class="block-highlighted block-highlighted--light"> <p><b>Here is our scoring system for calculating a VPN’s torrenting rating:</b></p> <ol> <ol> <p></p> <li><b>Speed (Awarded up to 3.0 points):</b> We measure the VPN’s average bitrate on a 10MiB/s test connection after downloading a 1GB test file. This value, on a scale of 0 to 10, is divided by 3.33 to account for its 30% weighting.</li> <p> </p> <li><b>Security & Features (Awarded up to 2.0 points):</b> This rating is taken straight from the <a href="#security">Security & Technical Features section</a> of the VPN review. We then divide it by 5 to account for its 20% weighting.</li> <p> </p> <li><b>Logging Policy & Past Behavior (Awarded up to 2.0 points):</b> This rating is taken straight from the <a href="#privacy-logging">Privacy & Logging Policy section</a> of the VPN review. We then divide it by 5 to account for its 20% weighting.</li> <p> </p> <li><b>Server Network & P2P-Friendly Attitude (Awarded up to 2.0 points):</b> <ol class="alpha-lower"> <p></p> <li><b>Rating of 10:</b> All servers permit P2P traffic.</li> <p> </p> <li><b>Rating of 7.5:</b> P2P servers are available in almost every country.</li> <p> </p> <li><b>Rating of 5.0:</b> Limited P2P support with regional servers, like one or two servers for the entire Europe region.</li> <p> </p> <li><b>Rating below 2.5:</b> Few P2P servers in the network or absence of P2P servers in specific regions, such as Asia.</li> </ol> </li> </ol> </ol> <p>We then divide it by 5 to account for its 20% weighting.</p> <ol> <p></p> <li><b>Relevant Extra Features (Awarded up to 1.0 points):</b> <ol class="alpha-lower"> <p></p> <li><b>Rating of 1.0:</b> VPN provides both a kill switch and port forwarding.</li> <p> </p> <li><b>Rating of 0.5:</b> VPN offers one of the two features.</li> <p> </p> <li><b>Rating of 0:</b> VPN lacks both a kill switch and port forwarding.</li> </ol> </li> </ol> </div> <p>In scenarios where use case ratings are applied, we explain the testing and scoring methodology directly on the page.</p> <h3 id="device-compatibility">8. Device Compatibility (5% of Overall Rating)</h3> <p>A VPN’s device compatibility determines how many of your devices you can protect and spoof your location on. If a VPN lacks an app or support for a device you frequently use, it’s essentially pointless.</p> <h4>How We Test</h4> <p>We test each VPN service across a range of popular devices and platforms.</p> <div class="block-highlighted block-highlighted--light"> <p><b>Our testing process for platform compatibility involves:</b></p> <ul> <li>Installing and using dedicated apps on all supported platforms</li> <li>Setting up manual configurations on devices without dedicated apps</li> <li>Verifying Smart DNS functionality across streaming devices and streaming services</li> <li>Testing router installations using both dedicated apps and manual configuration</li> <li>Confirming simultaneous connection limits through real-world usage</li> </ul> </div> <div id="attachment_1298486" style="width: 2260px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1298486" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-1298486 size-full" src="https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2024/01/ExpressVPN-Router-App.webp" alt="Testing the ExpressVPN Router App" width="2250" height="1498"><p id="caption-attachment-1298486" class="wp-caption-text">We check the VPN’s entire suite of apps and compatibility options.</p></div> <h4>How We Rate</h4> <div class="block-highlighted block-highlighted--light"> <p><b>Here is how we calculate each VPN’s device compatibility rating:</b></p> <ol> <li><b>Key Platforms (up to 4.0 points):</b> One point each awarded for dedicated apps on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.</li> <p>Copy</p> <li><b>Streaming Devices (up to 2.6 points):</b> Full points for Fire TV (1.0), Android TV (0.8), and Apple TV (0.8) apps.</li> <li><b>Browser Extensions (0.5 points):</b> Points awarded for Chrome and Chrome-based browser extensions.</li> <li><b>Smart DNS (up to 1.5 points):</b> Full points for multiple country support included with subscription. 1.0 points for single country or multi-country with additional subscription. 0.5 points for single country with additional subscription.</li> <li><b>Router Support (up to 1.0 points):</b> Full points for dedicated router app with pre-flashed options. 0.75 points for router app only, 0.5 for pre-flashed only, and 0.1 for manual setup.</li> <li><b>Simultaneous Connections (up to 0.5 points):</b> Full points for unlimited or 21+ devices, 0.45 for 11-20 devices, 0.4 for 6-10 devices, zero for 5 or fewer.</li> </ol> </div> <h3 id="additional-features">9. Additional Features (5% of Overall Rating)</h3> <p>Beyond core VPN functionality, many VPNs provide supplementary features designed to enhance everyday online activities and enable unique use cases you may not have considered.</p> <p>While these features aren’t essential for basic VPN usage, we find them handy and notice their absence when they’re unavailable. As a result, they make it more likely you’ll return to the VPN regularly for a wider range of activities.</p> <h4>How We Test</h4> <p>We conduct hands-on testing of each feature across all available platforms to verify its usability and effectiveness.</p> <div class="block-highlighted block-highlighted--light"> <p><b>Our testing for additional features includes:</b></p> <ul> <li>Confirming feature availability across different platforms and apps.</li> <li>Measuring actual performance (e.g., tracking the number of blocked ad domains or measuring speed variations with split tunneling).</li> <li>Assessing feature quality (e.g., split tunneling flexibility or how multi-hop is configured).</li> </ul> </div> <div id="attachment_1475140" style="width: 2510px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1475140" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-1475140 size-full" src="https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2024/04/PIA-Bypassing-Censorship.webp" alt="Bypassing Censorship with Private Internet Access" width="2500" height="1664"><p id="caption-attachment-1475140" class="wp-caption-text">We test each additional feature, like how well its obfuscation can bypass censorship.</p></div> <h4>How We Rate</h4> <div class="block-highlighted block-highlighted--light"> <p><b>Here is how we calculate each VPN’s additional features rating:</b></p> <ol> <li><b>VPN Obfuscation (up to 3.0 points):</b> Score is directly based on the 12-month success rate in China, where strict web censorship applies. For example, a 63% success rate converts to 6.3 points, divided by 3.33 for a final score.</li> <li><b>Split Tunneling (up to 1.5 points):</b> Full points are awarded if you can include or exclude specific apps. Partial points (0.75) are given if only one option is available.</li> <li><b>Ad/Tracker Blocker (up to 0.8 points):</b> Zero points for no blocking, 0.3 points for 1–49% of test domains blocked, 0.5 for 50–75%, and 0.8 for 76–100%.</li> <li><b>Multi-Hop (up to 1.5 points):</b> 1.0 points for single encryption, 1.5 points for double encryption.</li> <li><b>Live Chat (up to 1.0 points):</b> 0.5 points for live chat, 1.0 points for 24/7 support.</li> <li><b>Dedicated IP (up to 0.6 points):</b> 0.5 points if available for additional fee, 0.6 points if included in standard subscription.</li> <li><b>Static IP (up to 0.4 points):</b> 0.3 points if available for additional fee, 0.4 points if included in standard subscription.</li> <li><b>Password Manager (0.4 points):</b> Full points if feature is available.</li> <li><b>Tor Over VPN Servers (0.4 points):</b> Full points if feature is available.</li> <li><b>GPS Spoofing (0.2 points):</b> Full points if feature is available.</li> <li><b>SOCKS5 Proxy (0.2 points):</b> Full points if feature is available.</li> </ol> </div> <h2 id="use-case">Use Case Ratings</h2> <p>When you are looking for the most suitable VPN for a specific purpose, device, or region, our experts create a <b>bespoke testing and rating methodology just for that page</b>.</p> <p>We consider the most important decision-making factors specifically for that purpose, and assign them a weighting depending on their importance. These category ratings combine to create a <b>unique use case rating for that specific purpose</b>.</p> <div class="block-highlighted block-highlighted--light"> <p><b>These categories are varied, but include such factors as:</b></p> <ul> <p></p> <li>Mac App</li> <p> </p> <li>Streaming Device Compatibility</li> <p> </p> <li>Success Rate in China</li> <p> </p> <li>US Netflix Reliability</li> </ul> </div> <p>In scenarios where use case ratings are applied, we explain the testing and scoring methodology directly on the page.</p> </div></section></div></div></div></main><footer id="footer" data-swiftype-index="false" class="jsx-4062602538 footer"><div class="jsx-4062602538 container-row footer-trio"><div class="jsx-4062602538 footer-company"><div class="jsx-4062602538 logo"><img alt="Top10VPN" loading="lazy" width="184" height="26" decoding="async" data-nimg="1" style="color:transparent" src="/static/images/logo.svg"/></div><p class="jsx-4062602538">We've been testing and reviewing VPN services since 2016. 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He's a member of the IAPP, and his VPN advice has featured in Forbes and the Internet Society.","is_expert":true,"snippet_clean":"Callum Tennent oversees how we test and review VPN services. He's a member of the IAPP, and his VPN advice has featured in Forbes and the Internet Society.","summary_clean":"Callum Tennent leads the Top10VPN editorial team, overseeing our VPN reviews and advice. He’s an experienced VPN expert, technology journalist, and former product testing professional at Which?. Callum is a passionate digital privacy advocate, and is a member of the IAPP and the EC Council’s Knowledge Review Committee. "},"schema":{"knows_about":"VPN services, internet privacy, internet security, internet censorship, geo-blocking"}}],"published_date":"2024-11-08T11:08:00.000Z","title":"How We Test \u0026 Review VPN Services"},"tableSheets":[],"intro":{"text":"We put every VPN we review through an extensive and unbiased testing process. In this guide you’ll learn about our testing lab, how we evaluate VPNs, how our rating system works, and why you should trust our process."},"chapters":[{"heading":"Why You Should Trust Our VPN Reviews","content":"\u003cp\u003eAll 61 VPNs on our website have been thoroughly tested using our extensive and fair testing program, ensuring consistency and comparability of our results.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe’ve designed this system to make sure we only recommend the \u003ca href=\"https://www.top10vpn.com/best-vpn/\"\u003every best VPN services\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe selected these 61 VPNs after analyzing mobile app store data to identify the \u003ca href=\"https://www.top10vpn.com/research/global-mobile-vpn-report/#top-mobile-vpn-services\"\u003emost popular VPNs\u003c/a\u003e, and by considering those frequently referred to by \u003ca href=\"https://vpnalyzer.org/survey2022.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eother industry experts\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur VPN testing process is fully transparent. Each VPN review includes its rating in every category. Our findings are also reproducible; by following our testing process, you can replicate our findings yourself.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 id=\"full-editorial-indie\"\u003e1. Fully Independent\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt Top10VPN.com we pride ourselves on genuine, 100% editorial independence. What does that mean?\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"block-highlighted block-highlighted--light\"\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"icon-list icon-list-cross\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eWe will never\u003c/b\u003e accept money to review a VPN.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eWe will never\u003c/b\u003e accept money to improve the review rating of a VPN.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eWe will never\u003c/b\u003e accept a test account from a VPN service.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"horizontal-content\"\u003e\n\u003ch4 class=\"heading-5 left\"\u003eNo conflict of interest\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"right\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike many other VPN review websites, we are independently-owned and entirely separate from every VPN service. There\u0026#8217;s no potential for conflicts of interest and there is no pressure from financial stakeholders to alter reviews.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"horizontal-content\"\u003e\n\u003ch4 class=\"heading-5 left\"\u003eSingular focus on VPNs\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"right\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe are \u003cb\u003eentirely focused on VPN services and issues of online privacy and security\u003c/b\u003e. We have no interest in reviewing or covering products in other areas. This means that we can dedicate all of our time and resources towards creating the best possible \u003ca href=\"/reviews/\"\u003eVPN reviews\u003c/a\u003e and advice for you.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"horizontal-content\"\u003e\n\u003ch4 class=\"heading-5 left\"\u003eOur subscriptions are self-funded\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"right\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the interest of total impartiality we also \u003cb\u003epurchase our own subscriptions to every VPN we test\u003c/b\u003e. Since the company was founded in 2016, Top10VPN.com has spent over $25,000 on VPN subscriptions alone.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"horizontal-content\"\u003e\n\u003ch4 class=\"heading-5 left\"\u003eSupported by our readers\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"right\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe are completely funded by you, our readers. We’ve provided an in-depth, transparent explanation of \u003ca href=\"https://www.top10vpn.com/about/how-we-make-money/\"\u003ehow we make money\u003c/a\u003e if you want to know all the details.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch3 id=\"experts\"\u003e2. Expert Reviewers\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur VPN reviews and guides are all written by our on-staff \u003ca href=\"https://www.top10vpn.com/about/vpn-experts/\"\u003eVPN experts\u003c/a\u003e, who have years of experience and in-depth knowledge of the VPN industry.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"block-highlighted block-highlighted--light\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHere’s a brief description of our authors and their experience in the VPN industry:\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://www.top10vpn.com/about/vpn-experts/simonmigliano/\"\u003eSimon Migliano\u003c/a\u003e, whose cybersecurity research has been featured in dozens of leading news publications. His ongoing research into internet shutdowns is regularly cited in public policy documents and academic papers.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://www.top10vpn.com/about/vpn-experts/jpjones/\"\u003eJP Jones\u003c/a\u003e, who has over 25 years of software engineering and networking experience. His extensive knowledge of VPN protocols and network security has been shared in several online publications.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://www.top10vpn.com/about/vpn-experts/callumtennent/\"\u003eCallum Tennent\u003c/a\u003e, who has years of experience in product testing, having supervised and conducted unbiased testing on a range of tech products and coordinated product testing for a range of global publications.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe also have an \u003cb\u003ein-house team of product review experts\u003c/b\u003e, including engineers, data analysts, and web censorship specialists, who gather data and assist with content production. The reviews and advice you see on the website are the result of their combined efforts.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"attachment_751167\" style=\"width: 1178px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"\u003e\u003cimg aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-751167\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-751167\" src=\"https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2022/10/img_team.jpeg\" alt=\"The seven members of the Top10VPN.com testing team, posing and smiling for the camera\" width=\"1168\" height=\"778\" /\u003e\u003cp id=\"caption-attachment-751167\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"\u003eOur VPN testing team.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch3 id=\"research\"\u003e3. Original Research\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike many other VPN review websites, \u003cb\u003ewe conduct our own testing and research to evaluate a VPN’s performance\u003c/b\u003e. Our reviews are the result of extensive hands-on testing and analysis using a range of primary and third-party tools.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"attachment_1246952\" style=\"width: 2010px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"\u003e\u003cimg aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-1246952\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-1246952 size-full\" src=\"https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2023/11/d7FfEu9N-Top10VPN-Speed-Test-Tool.webp\" alt=\"A man at a desk tests a VPN's speed performance on a laptop and analyzes a spreadsheet of speed test results on an iMac.\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1332\" /\u003e\u003cp id=\"caption-attachment-1246952\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"\u003eWe manually conduct every VPN speed test.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor example, we use our custom-built VPN kill switch testing tool to stress test every VPN\u0026#8217;s kill switch. Our findings from this research have been adopted by many VPNs, including PrivateVPN, to enhance their product security.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can find more information on our VPN testing methodology in the \u003ca href=\"#test-methodology\"\u003ededicated section of this page\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 id=\"up-to-date\"\u003e4. Up-to-Date Information\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA VPN’s performance can vary significantly over time. For example, even if it unblocks US Netflix one week, it may not work the following week. Additionally, VPN services are constantly adding new features to respond to new security threats.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo ensure our VPN reviews remain accurate and relevant, our team is continually retesting VPN services and updating our content. Every VPN review we publish is updated on a weekly basis for the rest of its lifespan. An initial review may involve upwards of 40 hours of testing, but we spend many more hours each month updating it.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"attachment_963141\" style=\"width: 1210px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"\u003e\u003cimg aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-963141\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-963141 size-full\" src=\"https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2023/05/top10vpn-continual-testing.png\" alt=\"Database of VPN testing results, showing the frequency of tests.\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1045\" /\u003e\u003cp id=\"caption-attachment-963141\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"\u003eWe test each VPN every week to ensure our data is accurate and reliable.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur VPN experts are intimately familiar with every VPN reviewed on the website. They are constantly retesting VPN speeds, checking if they can still unblock streaming services, updating key information and pricing plans, and dozens of other data points.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 id=\"testing-environment\"\u003e5. Consistent Testing Environment\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo ensure that our VPN reviews are both fair and directly comparable, we conduct all of our tests in a consistent environment. This means that every VPN is tested hands-on from New York using standardized hardware, running the latest OS release.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdditionally, every VPN is tested in an independent virtual machine to prevent interaction with other installed software and limit the potential for inaccurate results. This approach improves the consistency and comparability of our test results.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"block-highlighted block-highlighted--light\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHere’s a list of some of the test devices we use:\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"columns-2\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLenovo T480 (Windows 10 \u0026amp; Ubuntu Linux 20.04)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMacBook Air (macOS Sonoma)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePixel 7 Pro (Android 14)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eiPhone 14 Pro (iOS 17)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAmazon Fire TV Stick (FireOS 8)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApple TV 4K (tvOS 17)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChromecast with Google TV\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSony PS5\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLinksys WRT3200ACM\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"attachment_751197\" style=\"width: 1178px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"\u003e\u003cimg aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-751197\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-751197\" src=\"https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2022/10/img_devices_A.jpeg\" alt=\"A series of tech products lined up, including computers and streaming devices\" width=\"1168\" height=\"780\" /\u003e\u003cp id=\"caption-attachment-751197\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"\u003eThe full range of devices we use for testing VPNs.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing this standardized collection of devices allows us to control for any variables relating to the performance of the device being used. Instead, any performance differences we record can be attributed solely to the VPN.\u003c/p\u003e\n"},{"heading":"VPN Test \u0026 Rating Methodology","content":"\u003cp id=\"test-methodology\"\u003eWe use two categories of ratings for VPN services: \u003ca href=\"#overall\"\u003eoverall ratings\u003c/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"#use-case\"\u003euse case ratings\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOverall ratings evaluate a VPN service based on a standardized set of criteria that’s applicable to all users. While use case ratings are tailored evaluations for specific requirements, such as a particular device or region.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 id=\"overall\"\u003eOverall Ratings\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn overall rating, which you see on \u003ca href=\"https://www.top10vpn.com/reviews/\"\u003eall VPN reviews\u003c/a\u003e, is based on a fixed set of nine testing categories. You can see a quick overview of each category, along with its respective weight in percentage terms, in the chart below:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cpicture\u003e\u003csource media=\"(max-width: 768px)\" srcset=\"https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2024/11/m-piechart-overall-vpn-methodology-v2.webp\"\u003e\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-1667763 size-full\" src=\"https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2024/11/d-piechart-overall-vpn-methodology-v2.webp\" alt=\"Pie showing the breakdown of Top10VPN's ratings system. Privacy: 20%, Security, Speed, \u0026amp; Streaming are 15% each; Server Locations \u0026amp; User Experience are 10% each; Torrenting, Device Compatibility, Additional Features are 5% each.\" width=\"1520\" height=\"938\" /\u003e\u003c/picture\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the sections below we describe in detail how we rigorously test VPN services in each of our nine testing categories. We’ll also provide information on how our research findings are converted into a numerical rating out of 10.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 id=\"privacy-logging\"\u003e1. Privacy (20% of Overall Rating)\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA VPN’s logging policy is one of its most important attributes. If too much of your data is logged then you could be exposed if a hacker or court gains access to your VPN’s servers.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow We Test\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eWe read every word of a logging policy\u003c/b\u003e to fully understand exactly what each VPN logs, where it’s stored, and how long for.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach data point is listed and sorted into a category for how long it\u0026#8217;s retained, ranging from just the session duration to indefinitely.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThen, we note the VPN’s jurisdiction, any past controversies, and whether it has any features that help maintain a user’s privacy. The most important of these is diskless servers, as they do not store data of any sort beyond the duration of the VPN session.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo maintain consistency, we have multiple testers independently examine the policy to minimize the possibility of human error.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"attachment_122806\" style=\"width: 2570px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"\u003e\u003cimg aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-122806\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-122806 size-full\" src=\"https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2020/04/Screenshot-from-the-CyberGhost-Privacy-Policy.png\" alt=\"Screenshot from the CyberGhost Privacy Policy\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1504\" /\u003e\u003cp id=\"caption-attachment-122806\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"\u003eScreenshot from the CyberGhost Privacy Policy.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow We Rate\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe use a custom-built calculator to provide accurate and objective ratings.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"block-highlighted block-highlighted--blue\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe logging policy and privacy category is divided into the following subcategories:\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eData Logged: 60%\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHistory: 20%\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eJurisdiction: 10%\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTrustworthiness: 5%\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrivacy-Enhancing Features: 5%\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEvery logging policy begins with a 10/10 rating. As we enter the logged data into the calculator, it automatically subtracts points depending on the severity of the issue. For example, account information that cannot be linked to online activity results in a deduction of only 0.1 points.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, connection timestamps or total bandwidth consumed are considered more serious and will detract 0.5 points. The worst types of logs, such as indefinitely retaining DNS requests or your true IP address, will instantly drop the rating by 9.9.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"block-highlighted block-highlighted--light\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOur comprehensive privacy and logging policy rating calculator can\u0026#8217;t be entirely detailed on this page, but the following ranges give a general overview of what a rating means:\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003e0.1 \u0026#8211; 3.0: Severe privacy concerns\u003c/b\u003e. The VPN logs substantial amounts of personally identifiable information, putting your anonymity at serious risk.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003e3.1 \u0026#8211; 5.9: Significant privacy concerns\u003c/b\u003e. The VPN logs more data than desirable and retains it for too long. A poor choice of jurisdiction may further increase the risk to your anonymity.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003e6.0 \u0026#8211; 7.9: Medium privacy concerns\u003c/b\u003e. The amount of data logged, the way it’s stored, and how long it\u0026#8217;s stored for are not perfect. The jurisdiction may not be optimal for privacy, and there may be insufficient evidence of its privacy commitments, such as audits or court records.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003e8.0 \u0026#8211; 9.4: High degree of privacy\u003c/b\u003e. The VPN maintains a minimal logging policy and is likely to operate in a privacy haven. It may have undergone audits or provided evidence in court to validate its privacy policy claims.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003e9.5+: Best-in-class privacy measures\u003c/b\u003e. The VPN has an exceptional logging policy, retaining only very minimal metadata, if any, for a short duration. It either operates under a private jurisdiction, uses diskless servers, has undergone multiple third-party audits, or has demonstrated its privacy commitments in court.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch3 id=\"streaming\"\u003e2. Streaming (15% of Overall Rating)\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStreaming performance measures the ability of a VPN to consistently access geo-blocked content platforms, such as Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow We Test\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo test streaming performance, we simply connect to a VPN server in the necessary region and attempt to watch content. We ensure that the video loads properly, the audio and video are in sync, and there is no interruption before qualifying it as a successful result.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"attachment_1601437\" style=\"width: 2570px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"\u003e\u003cimg aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-1601437\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-1601437 size-full\" src=\"https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2024/09/surfshark-streaming-peacock-scaled.webp\" alt=\"Testing Surfshark with Peacock\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1704\" /\u003e\u003cp id=\"caption-attachment-1601437\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"\u003eEach VPN service is individually tested with dozens of streaming services.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe have accounts with 120 popular streaming services from around the world.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe follow a set schedule where each VPN is tested weekly with the most popular services, like US Netflix and BBC iPlayer, whereas less popular services are tested once a month.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe use this data to track each VPN’s percentage success rate over the last three and 12 months. This gives us a measurement of how reliable the VPN is with each particular streaming service.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"block-highlighted block-highlighted--light\"\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eHere is a list of all the streaming services we regularly test:\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBBC iPlayer (UK)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDAZN (Canada)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDisney+ (UK)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHulu (US)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eITVX (UK)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMax (US)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNetflix (US)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNetflix (UK)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrime Video (US)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSky Go (UK)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow We Rate\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"block-highlighted block-highlighted--light\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHere is the scoring system we use to calculate a VPN’s streaming rating:\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003e0.1 \u0026#8211; 0.9:\u003c/b\u003e Doesn’t work with any streaming service\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003e1.0 \u0026#8211; 3.9:\u003c/b\u003e Works with US Netflix or BBC iPlayer\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003e4.0 \u0026#8211; 6.9:\u003c/b\u003e Works with both US Netflix and BBC iPlayer\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003e7.0 \u0026#8211; 8.9:\u003c/b\u003e Works with multiple streaming services, such as Hulu, HBO Max, and Prime Video\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003e9.0 \u0026#8211; 9.8:\u003c/b\u003e Works with all tested services\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003e9.9 \u0026#8211; 10.0:\u003c/b\u003e Consistently works with every service\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur scoring system allows our testers to evaluate the VPN\u0026#8217;s performance using qualitative metrics, such as video quality, load time, and buffering, and award points within a range.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 id=\"speed\"\u003e3. Speed (15% of Overall Rating)\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA VPN’s speed is a measurement of how quickly it can download and upload data to and from the internet. A fast VPN allows you to access web pages and stream videos more quickly and without interruption.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow We Test\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe measure a VPN’s speeds using a proprietary speed test tool. We don’t use any third party tools, as these can produce inaccurate results.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing our 100Mbps connection, we record the speed when connected to VPN servers in eight countries across five continents. These servers are located in: West and East Coast US, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Germany, Japan, South Africa, and the UK.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe manually perform these tests three times a week for a month, totaling 12 results per server location. We then calculate the average speed to reduce the impact of any anomalous results.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"attachment_949703\" style=\"width: 1010px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"\u003e\u003cimg aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-949703\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-949703 size-full\" src=\"https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2023/05/speed-test-expressvpn.png\" alt=\"Testing ExpressVPN's internet speeds using our proprietary speed testing tool.\" width=\"1000\" height=\"631\" /\u003e\u003cp id=\"caption-attachment-949703\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"\u003eEach VPN is tested manually using our proprietary VPN speed test tool.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow We Rate\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe rating for this is based entirely on the data we collect. We input the raw speed figures into our custom-built calculator, which automatically calculates an overall speed rating out of 10.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"block-highlighted block-highlighted--blue\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eThis category is divided into the following subcategories:\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eDownload Speed: 80%\u003c/b\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLocal (US East Coast): 40%\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUS (West Coast): 10%\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUK: 10%\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAustralia: 5%\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBrazil: 5%\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCanada: 5%\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eJapan: 5%\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eUpload Speed Local (US East Coast): 10%\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003ePing: 10%\u003c/b\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLocal (US East Coast): 6%\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUK: 4%\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDownload speed has a higher weighting as it impacts the vast majority of web activity, like streaming video. We also give higher importance to local connections, as they are used most often.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor each location, a VPN starts with a speed rating of zero and we award points based on its performance.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor example, a VPN can earn the maximum of 40 points for its local server speed if its speed is above 95Mbps, 36 points between 94-90Mbps, 32 points between 89-85Mbps, and so on. A VPN won’t get any points for this location if its speed is below 25Mbps.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"block-highlighted block-highlighted--light\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOur comprehensive speed rating calculator can\u0026#8217;t be entirely detailed on this page, but the following ranges give a general overview of what a rating means:\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003e0.1 \u0026#8211; 3.9: Extremely poor performance\u003c/b\u003e with both download and upload speeds significantly reduced (80% or more below baseline connection speeds) across all tested servers. Ping times are also consistently high (over 200 ms).\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003e4.0 \u0026#8211; 4.9: Poor performance\u003c/b\u003e characterized by a severe reduction in download and upload speeds (60-80% below baseline connection speeds) on most tested servers. Ping times may be moderately high (between 150-200 ms).\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003e5.0 \u0026#8211; 6.9: Average performance\u003c/b\u003e where download and upload speeds are reduced (30-60% below baseline connection speeds). Ping times are acceptable (between 100-150 ms).\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003e7.0 \u0026#8211; 8.9: Good performance\u003c/b\u003e with minor speed reduction (10-30% below baseline connection speeds). Ping times are low (below 100 ms) on most tested servers.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e9.0 \u0026#8211; 9.8: Excellent performance. Speed reduction is negligible (less than 10% below baseline connection speeds) across all tested servers. Ping times are extremely low (below 50 ms).\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003e9.9 \u0026#8211; 10.0: Outstanding performance\u003c/b\u003e. Almost no detectable speed reduction (less than 5% below baseline connection speeds) and extremely low ping times (below 10 ms) across all tested servers.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch3 id=\"security\"\u003e4. Security (15% of Overall Rating)\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne of a VPN’s primary functions is to provide an encrypted connection that prevents unauthorized monitoring of your network activity. Insufficient security measures could expose you to various risks, including data breaches and man-in-the-middle attacks.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow We Test\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe use the following tools to assess the security and technical features of a VPN:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display: none;\" data-collapsiblecontent=\"633ed6b922fee\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow We Rate\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe have a checklist of essential features that significantly affect a VPN’s rating in this category. The most critical is the availability of OpenVPN or WireGuard protocols and an option of either AES-256 or ChaCha20 encryption.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBased on our test findings, we award significant points to VPNs that successfully encrypt all web traffic as proven by Wireshark, prevent IP leaks during connection drops, and block malicious URLs from loading in our ad and tracker blocker test.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition to these, we evaluate a range of other technical features, including dedicated IP addresses, multi-hop servers, split tunneling, and Tor over VPN.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"block-highlighted block-highlighted--light\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOur comprehensive security and technical features rating calculator can\u0026#8217;t be entirely detailed on this page, but the following ranges give a general overview of what a rating means:\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003e0.1 \u0026#8211; 3.0: Severe security concerns\u003c/b\u003e. Fails to encrypt data, leaks IP or DNS requests, and lacks critical security features like a VPN kill switch.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003e3.1 \u0026#8211; 5.9: Substantial security concerns\u003c/b\u003e. May use outdated protocols, fail leak tests, and have only a basic selection of security features.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003e6.0 \u0026#8211; 7.9: Moderate security\u003c/b\u003e. Functional but lacks advanced features such as diverse protocols and advanced encryption. Includes a working kill switch.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003e8.0 \u0026#8211; 9.4: Robust security\u003c/b\u003e. Uses open-sourced protocols and either ChaCha20 or AES-256 encryption. The VPN will have passed leak tests and include working features like a kill switch and split tunneling.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003e9.5+: Exceptional security\u003c/b\u003e. These VPNs are best-in-class, consistently providing a wide array of the safest and fastest protocols and unbreakable encryption. They often come with integrated beneficial features or offer a range of optional extras and have open-sourced applications for transparency.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch3 id=\"server-locations\"\u003e5. Server Locations (10% of Overall Rating)\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eServer locations judges the availability and diversity of IP address locations provided by the VPN. Being able to connect to more countries directly influences your ability to access region-specific content and to maintain fast connection speeds.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow We Test\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo test a VPN’s server network, we examine the server list on its website and within its apps. Then, we document how many total servers it has, how many countries you can connect to, and how many city-level locations it offers.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll this data is compiled into a table separated by continents, giving us a view of how well distributed the servers are around the world.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"attachment_949109\" style=\"width: 1380px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"\u003e\u003cimg aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-949109\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-949109 size-full\" src=\"https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2023/05/tunnelbear-server-locations-2023.jpg\" alt=\"Image of Server list on TunnelBear's website.\" width=\"1370\" height=\"1252\" /\u003e\u003cp id=\"caption-attachment-949109\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"\u003eWe study the server list of every VPN on its website and verify it within the software.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow We Rate\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"block-highlighted block-highlighted--light\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHere is our scoring system for calculating a VPN’s server locations rating:\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003e0.1 \u0026#8211; 0.9:\u003c/b\u003e Single fixed server location.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003e1.1 \u0026#8211; 1.5:\u003c/b\u003e Single dynamic server location.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003e1.6 \u0026#8211; 5.9:\u003c/b\u003e 2-6 country locations.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003e6.0 \u0026#8211; 6.9:\u003c/b\u003e 6-12 country locations.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003e7.0 \u0026#8211; 7.9:\u003c/b\u003e 12-20 country locations.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003e8.0 \u0026#8211; 8.9:\u003c/b\u003e 21-40 country locations.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003e9.0 \u0026#8211; 9.9:\u003c/b\u003e More than 40 countries, up to 20 city-level locations, up to 1,000 total servers.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003e9.9 \u0026#8211; 10.0:\u003c/b\u003e More than 40 countries, more than 20 city-level locations, more than 1,000 total servers.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur server location rating methodology is based on quantifiable metrics, such as the number of countries and total count of servers.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, we maintain a small level of flexibility within each scoring range to incorporate qualitative factors based on the personal judgment of our team. These include the relative popularity of the locations, and the balance between physical and virtual server locations.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 id=\"ease-of-use\"\u003e6. User Experience (10% of Overall Rating)\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUser experience is a measurement of how simple, user-friendly, and intuitive the experience of using a VPN’s software is.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow We Test\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll of the \u003cb\u003etesting for user experience is conducted while using the VPN in everyday contexts\u003c/b\u003e. Given the nature of the metric, we do not perform a specific test to measure its performance.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDuring our 40+ hours of initial testing, we document various intangibles that affect the overall user experience, including how the VPN feels to use, how easy it is to navigate, server sorting options, and the clarity of labels.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith this rating, we capture how enjoyable it is to use the VPN across multiple platforms, including desktop, mobile, streaming devices, and routers.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"attachment_1406975\" style=\"width: 2510px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"\u003e\u003cimg aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-1406975\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-1406975 size-full\" src=\"https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2024/02/Surfshark-Server-List-on-iOS-1.webp\" alt=\"Surfshark VPN Server List on IOS\" width=\"2500\" height=\"1664\" /\u003e\u003cp id=\"caption-attachment-1406975\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"\u003eWe use every VPN over an extended period to assess how pleasant it is to use.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow We Rate\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike every other category, ease of use does not rely on a data-based calculator. The scoring methodology is primarily qualitative, based on our testers’ hands-on experience and judgment of the product. However, to minimize the risk of bias, \u003cb\u003emultiple testers are used\u003c/b\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe incorporate some measurable metrics, too, including setup time, number of clicks required for common tasks, and number of CAPTCHAs encountered while web browsing. We also reward VPNs that provide a helpful onboarding experience.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo gain substantial points, the VPN will have to be extremely intuitive to use across a broad range of platforms. Having an app for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android is the bare minimum – there should also be apps for Linux, Fire TV, or router.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo score low in this category, we’d have to have difficulty installing or signing up to the service, struggle to work the app in day-to-day use, or encounter regular bugs.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 id=\"torrenting\"\u003e7. Torrenting (5% of Overall Rating)\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn our torrenting tests, we measure the ability of a VPN to securely and reliably hide your P2P file-sharing activity from your ISP and other third parties, while providing quick download speeds.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow We Test\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo assess a VPN’s torrenting ability, we conduct a controlled test. Using our fixed 10MiB/s internet connection and a Windows virtual machine, we download a 1GB torrent file from a private torrent tracker while connected to the nearest VPN server.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe use qBittorrent as our torrenting client, and we download our own custom-made 1GB test file from a fixed-speed host to keep our results consistent.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"attachment_877850\" style=\"width: 1354px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"\u003e\u003cimg aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-877850\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-877850 size-full\" src=\"https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2023/04/ipvanish-windows-torrenting.jpg\" alt=\"Anonymously torrenting with IPVanish\" width=\"1344\" height=\"780\" /\u003e\u003cp id=\"caption-attachment-877850\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"\u003eEvery VPN goes through our standardized torrenting test..\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow We Rate\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo evaluate a VPN\u0026#8217;s torrenting performance, we use a purely mathematical equation that takes into account five key criteria.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"block-highlighted block-highlighted--light\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHere is our scoring system for calculating a VPN’s torrenting rating:\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eSpeed (Awarded up to 3.0 points):\u003c/b\u003e We measure the VPN\u0026#8217;s average bitrate on a 10MiB/s test connection after downloading a 1GB test file. This value, on a scale of 0 to 10, is divided by 3.33 to account for its 30% weighting.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eSecurity \u0026amp; Features (Awarded up to 2.0 points):\u003c/b\u003e This rating is taken straight from the \u003ca href=\"#security\"\u003eSecurity \u0026amp; Technical Features section\u003c/a\u003e of the VPN review. We then divide it by 5 to account for its 20% weighting.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eLogging Policy \u0026amp; Past Behavior (Awarded up to 2.0 points):\u003c/b\u003e This rating is taken straight from the \u003ca href=\"#privacy-logging\"\u003ePrivacy \u0026amp; Logging Policy section\u003c/a\u003e of the VPN review. We then divide it by 5 to account for its 20% weighting.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eServer Network \u0026amp; P2P-Friendly Attitude (Awarded up to 2.0 points):\u003c/b\u003e\n\u003col class=\"alpha-lower\"\u003e\n \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eRating of 10:\u003c/b\u003e All servers permit P2P traffic.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eRating of 7.5:\u003c/b\u003e P2P servers are available in almost every country.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eRating of 5.0:\u003c/b\u003e Limited P2P support with regional servers, like one or two servers for the entire Europe region.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eRating below 2.5:\u003c/b\u003e Few P2P servers in the network or absence of P2P servers in specific regions, such as Asia.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe then divide it by 5 to account for its 20% weighting.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eRelevant Extra Features (Awarded up to 1.0 points):\u003c/b\u003e\n\u003col class=\"alpha-lower\"\u003e\n \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eRating of 1.0:\u003c/b\u003e VPN provides both a kill switch and port forwarding.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eRating of 0.5:\u003c/b\u003e VPN offers one of the two features.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eRating of 0:\u003c/b\u003e VPN lacks both a kill switch and port forwarding.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn scenarios where use case ratings are applied, we explain the testing and scoring methodology directly on the page.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 id=\"device-compatibility\"\u003e8. Device Compatibility (5% of Overall Rating)\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA VPN\u0026#8217;s device compatibility determines how many of your devices you can protect and spoof your location on. If a VPN lacks an app or support for a device you frequently use, it\u0026#8217;s essentially pointless.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow We Test\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe test each VPN service across a range of popular devices and platforms.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"block-highlighted block-highlighted--light\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOur testing process for platform compatibility involves:\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInstalling and using dedicated apps on all supported platforms\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSetting up manual configurations on devices without dedicated apps\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVerifying Smart DNS functionality across streaming devices and streaming services\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTesting router installations using both dedicated apps and manual configuration\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConfirming simultaneous connection limits through real-world usage\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"attachment_1298486\" style=\"width: 2260px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"\u003e\u003cimg aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-1298486\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-1298486 size-full\" src=\"https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2024/01/ExpressVPN-Router-App.webp\" alt=\"Testing the ExpressVPN Router App\" width=\"2250\" height=\"1498\" /\u003e\u003cp id=\"caption-attachment-1298486\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"\u003eWe check the VPN\u0026#8217;s entire suite of apps and compatibility options.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow We Rate\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"block-highlighted block-highlighted--light\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHere is how we calculate each VPN\u0026#8217;s device compatibility rating:\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eKey Platforms (up to 4.0 points):\u003c/b\u003e One point each awarded for dedicated apps on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCopy\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eStreaming Devices (up to 2.6 points):\u003c/b\u003e Full points for Fire TV (1.0), Android TV (0.8), and Apple TV (0.8) apps.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eBrowser Extensions (0.5 points):\u003c/b\u003e Points awarded for Chrome and Chrome-based browser extensions.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eSmart DNS (up to 1.5 points):\u003c/b\u003e Full points for multiple country support included with subscription. 1.0 points for single country or multi-country with additional subscription. 0.5 points for single country with additional subscription.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eRouter Support (up to 1.0 points):\u003c/b\u003e Full points for dedicated router app with pre-flashed options. 0.75 points for router app only, 0.5 for pre-flashed only, and 0.1 for manual setup.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eSimultaneous Connections (up to 0.5 points):\u003c/b\u003e Full points for unlimited or 21+ devices, 0.45 for 11-20 devices, 0.4 for 6-10 devices, zero for 5 or fewer.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch3 id=\"additional-features\"\u003e9. Additional Features (5% of Overall Rating)\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBeyond core VPN functionality, many VPNs provide supplementary features designed to enhance everyday online activities and enable unique use cases you may not have considered.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile these features aren’t essential for basic VPN usage, we find them handy and notice their absence when they’re unavailable. As a result, they make it more likely you\u0026#8217;ll return to the VPN regularly for a wider range of activities.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow We Test\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe conduct hands-on testing of each feature across all available platforms to verify its usability and effectiveness.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"block-highlighted block-highlighted--light\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOur testing for additional features includes:\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConfirming feature availability across different platforms and apps.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMeasuring actual performance (e.g., tracking the number of blocked ad domains or measuring speed variations with split tunneling).\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAssessing feature quality (e.g., split tunneling flexibility or how multi-hop is configured).\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"attachment_1475140\" style=\"width: 2510px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"\u003e\u003cimg aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-1475140\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-1475140 size-full\" src=\"https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2024/04/PIA-Bypassing-Censorship.webp\" alt=\"Bypassing Censorship with Private Internet Access\" width=\"2500\" height=\"1664\" /\u003e\u003cp id=\"caption-attachment-1475140\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"\u003eWe test each additional feature, like how well its obfuscation can bypass censorship.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow We Rate\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"block-highlighted block-highlighted--light\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHere is how we calculate each VPN\u0026#8217;s additional features rating:\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eVPN Obfuscation (up to 3.0 points):\u003c/b\u003e Score is directly based on the 12-month success rate in China, where strict web censorship applies. For example, a 63% success rate converts to 6.3 points, divided by 3.33 for a final score.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eSplit Tunneling (up to 1.5 points):\u003c/b\u003e Full points are awarded if you can include or exclude specific apps. Partial points (0.75) are given if only one option is available.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eAd/Tracker Blocker (up to 0.8 points):\u003c/b\u003e Zero points for no blocking, 0.3 points for 1–49% of test domains blocked, 0.5 for 50–75%, and 0.8 for 76–100%.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eMulti-Hop (up to 1.5 points):\u003c/b\u003e 1.0 points for single encryption, 1.5 points for double encryption.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eLive Chat (up to 1.0 points):\u003c/b\u003e 0.5 points for live chat, 1.0 points for 24/7 support.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eDedicated IP (up to 0.6 points):\u003c/b\u003e 0.5 points if available for additional fee, 0.6 points if included in standard subscription.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eStatic IP (up to 0.4 points):\u003c/b\u003e 0.3 points if available for additional fee, 0.4 points if included in standard subscription.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003ePassword Manager (0.4 points):\u003c/b\u003e Full points if feature is available.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eTor Over VPN Servers (0.4 points):\u003c/b\u003e Full points if feature is available.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eGPS Spoofing (0.2 points):\u003c/b\u003e Full points if feature is available.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eSOCKS5 Proxy (0.2 points):\u003c/b\u003e Full points if feature is available.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch2 id=\"use-case\"\u003eUse Case Ratings\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen you are looking for the most suitable VPN for a specific purpose, device, or region, our experts create a \u003cb\u003ebespoke testing and rating methodology just for that page\u003c/b\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe consider the most important decision-making factors specifically for that purpose, and assign them a weighting depending on their importance. These category ratings combine to create a \u003cb\u003eunique use case rating for that specific purpose\u003c/b\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"block-highlighted block-highlighted--light\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eThese categories are varied, but include such factors as:\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMac App\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStreaming Device Compatibility\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSuccess Rate in China\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUS Netflix Reliability\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn scenarios where use case ratings are applied, we explain the testing and scoring methodology directly on the page.\u003c/p\u003e\n"}],"contentgroup":[{"color":"#ffffff","id":"633ec0af2e6e0","content":[{"body":"\u003cp\u003eWireshark is a packet inspection software which allows us to analyze web traffic traveling to or from a specific device.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"attachment_751254\" style=\"width: 652px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"\u003e\u003cimg aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-751254\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-751254\" src=\"https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2022/10/Wireshark.png\" alt=\"A screenshot of Wireshark packet sniffing software showing encrypted web traffic\" width=\"642\" height=\"601\" /\u003e\u003cp id=\"caption-attachment-751254\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"\u003eHere you can see what properly encrypted traffic looks like when viewed by a packet sniffing tool like Wireshark.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWireshark allows us to say for certain if a VPN is encrypting your traffic or not. Unencrypted traffic will appear legible in Wireshark, while encrypted VPN traffic will be illegible.\u003c/p\u003e\n","heading":"Wireshark"},{"body":"\u003cp\u003eWe’ve created our own \u003ca href=\"/tools/do-i-leak/\"\u003etool to test VPNs for leaks\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"attachment_751281\" style=\"width: 910px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"\u003e\u003cimg aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-751281\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-751281\" src=\"https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2022/10/VPN-Leak-Test.jpeg\" alt=\"A VPN leak test that has detected a geolocation leak\" width=\"900\" height=\"840\" /\u003e\u003cp id=\"caption-attachment-751281\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"\u003eThis is what the test would show if the VPN you used suffered a geolocation leak.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is able to accurately pinpoint IP, DNS, WebRTC, and geolocation leaks, plus IP and DNS leaks while torrenting.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe also use the third-party \u003ca href=\"http://ipleak.net\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eipleak.net\u003c/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"http://dnsleaktest.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003ednsleaktest.com\u003c/a\u003e to verify the findings from our own tool.\u003c/p\u003e\n","heading":"VPN \u0026 Torrenting Leak Test Tool"},{"body":"\u003cp\u003eWe’ve also created an entirely unique \u003ca href=\"/guides/vpn-kill-switch/\"\u003eVPN kill switch testing tool\u003c/a\u003e – there is nothing else like it anywhere else on the web.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"attachment_751308\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"\u003e\u003cimg aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-751308\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-751308\" src=\"https://www.top10vpn.comhttps://www.top10vpn.comhttps://www.top10vpn.com/images/2022/10/Kill-Switch-Test.png\" alt=\"The results of a failed VPN kill switch test - it leaked the user's true IP address when changing server locations\" width=\"700\" height=\"680\" /\u003e\u003cp id=\"caption-attachment-751308\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"\u003eHere you can see what happens when a VPN leaks your true IP address while changing servers.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt allows us to check for IP leaks when changing VPN servers or in the event of a sudden internet disconnection. A good VPN kill switch will prevent any leaks and pass our test.\u003c/p\u003e\n","heading":"Kill Switch Test Tool"},{"body":"\u003cp\u003eMany VPNs now offer either an ad blocker, tracker blocker, or both. To test their efficacy we use \u003ca href=\"https://d3ward.github.io/toolz/adblock.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003ed3ward’s excellent open source test tool on GitHub\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"attachment_751341\" style=\"width: 1210px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"\u003e\u003cimg aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-751341\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-751341\" src=\"https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2022/10/Ad-Block-Test.jpeg\" alt=\"The results of testing IVPN's built-in ad blocker. It performs extremely well.\" width=\"1200\" height=\"734\" /\u003e\u003cp id=\"caption-attachment-751341\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"\u003eIVPN, pictured above, is one of the strongest performers in our ad-block test.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt runs dozens of tests to determine what ads and trackers a VPN can block, and which it can’t. It then provides a percentage score to let us know how well the blocker works.\u003c/p\u003e\n","heading":"Ad \u0026 Tracker Blocker Test Tool"},{"body":"\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://reports.exodus-privacy.eu.org/en/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eεxodus\u003c/a\u003e is a privacy auditing platform for Android apps. We check every VPN Android application with it to discover how many trackers and permissions the VPN requires. εxodus also specifies what the permissions are capable of doing and how dangerous they are.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"attachment_124096\" style=\"width: 976px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"\u003e\u003cimg aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-124096\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-124096\" src=\"https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2020/04/ipvanish-exodus-report.png\" alt=\"The results of an Android app permissions examination. IPVanish requests 11 permissions, which is higher than the usual amount.\" width=\"966\" height=\"1138\" /\u003e\u003cp id=\"caption-attachment-124096\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"\u003eSome Android app permissions are needed for a VPN to function, but the 11 seen here with IPVanish is definitely above average.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile some may be absolutely necessary to the functionality of the VPN service, others often aren’t. The ideal Android VPN will have as few privacy-invading trackers and permissions as possible.\u003c/p\u003e\n","heading":"εxodus"},{"body":"\u003cp\u003eWe use two different tools to test VPN speeds:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan class=\"heading-5\"\u003espeedtest.net\u003c/span\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"attachment_751398\" style=\"width: 1010px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"\u003e\u003cimg aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-751398\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-751398\" src=\"https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2022/10/Speedtest-dot-net.jpeg\" alt=\"ExpressVPN running while connected to a nearby server, recording an impressive 99.41Mbps download rate on speedtest.net\" width=\"1000\" height=\"571\" /\u003e\u003cp id=\"caption-attachment-751398\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"\u003espeedtest.net is one of the most popular internet speed testing tools around, which is why we use it.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first is simply via \u003ca href=\"http://speedtest.net\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003espeedtest.net\u003c/a\u003e, the world’s most popular internet speed testing tool. It monitors your connection to tell you your download and upload speeds, plus ping time.We use this to measure the difference in speeds between our internet connection with a VPN and without, just like a regular VPN customer would.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan class=\"heading-5\"\u003eOur own speed test tool\u003c/span\u003e\u003cbr /\u003e\nWe also use \u003ca href=\"https://www.top10vpn.com/tools/vpn-speed-test/?to=nyc\u0026amp;from=nyc\u0026amp;period=8w\u0026amp;providers=direct,hotspot-shield,nordvpn,surfshark,ipvanish,expressvpn\u0026amp;int=7\u0026amp;chart=dl_speed_avg\u0026amp;lang=en\"\u003eour own VPN speed test tool\u003c/a\u003e. It runs a permanent, perpetual speed testing network for some of the most popular VPNs we’ve reviewed.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"attachment_751425\" style=\"width: 582px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"\u003e\u003cimg aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-751425\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-751425\" src=\"https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2022/10/Our-Speed-Test-Tool.png\" alt=\"A screenshot of the Top10VPN.com speed testing tool, comparing the historical download speeds of five popular VPNs when connected to a server in New York\" width=\"572\" height=\"800\" /\u003e\u003cp id=\"caption-attachment-751425\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"\u003eUsing our tool you can compare up to five VPNs at once and see historical results going back up to two months.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe rent a network of 113 servers in 11 locations all around the world and run 15 VPNs on them 24/7, collecting speed data multiple times a day. This information is expressed in the live graphs, allowing us to compare up to five VPNs at once across any connection.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n","heading":"Speed Testing Tools"},{"body":"\u003cp\u003eWe use \u003ca href=\"http://virustotal.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003evirustotal.com\u003c/a\u003e to check that each VPN installer is safe to run.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"attachment_751455\" style=\"width: 1210px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"\u003e\u003cimg aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-751455\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-751455\" src=\"https://www.top10vpn.com/images/2022/10/VirusTotal-Scan-1.png\" alt=\"The results of a clean virus examination run on the TorGuard VPN installer\" width=\"1200\" height=\"770\" /\u003e\u003cp id=\"caption-attachment-751455\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"\u003eIt\u0026#8217;s extremely rare for a VPN installer to produce a positive flag here, but it\u0026#8217;s still very important to test regardless.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVirusTotal analyzes any file you give it, checking its contents against a comprehensive database of known viruses and threats.\u003c/p\u003e\n","heading":"Virus Checks"}]},{"color":"#ffffff","id":"633ed6b922fee","content":[{"body":"\u003cp\u003eWe test VPN connection protocols and encryption using the Wireshark tool: AES-256 encryption is the industry standard, although AES-128 is acceptable, too.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor protocols, OpenVPN or the newer WireGuard are the safest and fastest, but IKEv2 is also a good alternative.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen turned on, a VPN should show nothing but encrypted traffic within Wireshark. If anything else is discoverable, then at some point the VPN has failed.\u003c/p\u003e\n","heading":"Wireshark"},{"body":"\u003cp\u003eWe also use our VPN leak test tool to make sure that the VPN is functioning correctly, then cross-reference those results with a third party website for accuracy (like \u003ca href=\"http://ipleak.net\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eipleak.net\u003c/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"http://dnsleaktest.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003ednsleaktest.com\u003c/a\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\n","heading":"In-House IP \u0026 DNS Leak Test Tool"},{"body":"\u003cp\u003eWhile we test plenty of auxiliary features, only one is a must have – the VPN kill switch. We test this using our in-house tool. It absolutely must work to prevent IP leaks when a connection to the internet is unexpectedly lost.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGaps in protection when changing server locations are not ideal, but can be excused if there is prior warning within the VPN app.\u003c/p\u003e\n","heading":"In-House VPN Kill Switch Test Tool"},{"body":"\u003cp\u003eMany VPNs now offer either an ad blocker, tracker blocker, or both. To test their efficacy we use \u003ca href=\"https://d3ward.github.io/toolz/adblock.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003ed3ward’s excellent open source test tool on GitHub\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt runs dozens of tests to determine what ads and trackers a VPN can block, and which it can’t. It then provides a percentage score to let us know how well the blocker works.\u003c/p\u003e\n","heading":"Ad \u0026 Tracker Blocker Test Tool"}]},{"color":"#f5f1f0","id":"633ed99b90953","content":[{"body":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e0.1 \u0026#8211; 3.0:\u003c/b\u003e Logs too much personally identifiable data – your anonymity could be seriously at risk with this VPN.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e3.1 \u0026#8211; 6.0:\u003c/b\u003e Too much data is logged and it is retained for too long. If the VPN has a particularly poor choice of jurisdiction then your anonymity could be at risk.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e6.1 \u0026#8211; 7.9:\u003c/b\u003e We are not entirely comfortable with the data being logged, the way it is stored, or how long it is stored for. The jurisdiction may be sub-optimal and the VPN is unlikely to have been audited or have proven itself in a court of law.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e8.0 \u0026#8211; 9.5:\u003c/b\u003e This is a trustworthy, minimal logging policy. The VPN is likely based in a privacy haven and may have even been audited to prove the statements laid out in its privacy policy.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e9.5+:\u003c/b\u003e This is a virtually flawless logging policy, with only very top-level metadata retained (if that) for a very short period of time. It is either based in a safe jurisdiction, operated on RAM-only servers, has had multiple third party audits, or has proven itself in court.\u003c/p\u003e\n","heading":"What Do These Ratings Mean?"}]},{"color":"#f5f1f0","id":"633ed99d3b665","content":[{"body":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e0.1 \u0026#8211; 3.0:\u003c/b\u003e This VPN suffers from incredibly slow download speeds, upload speeds, and ping times no matter where in the world you connect to. It also may not have servers available in enough locations to perform a full range of speed tests. Simply browsing the web while using it will be noticeably slower.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e3.1 \u0026#8211; 5.0:\u003c/b\u003e This VPN suffers from very slow download speeds, and most likely slow upload speeds and long ping times, too. Torrenting files will take much longer, and streaming high quality video (4K or maybe even Full HD) will be interrupted by buffering, depending on the speed of your base internet connection.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e5.1 \u0026#8211; 7.0:\u003c/b\u003e The lowest acceptable rating for speed, local connections may not be too badly affected. You’ll likely experience slower downloads and the occasional stutter while streaming. Long-distance international connections will be slow, limiting what you can do effectively while connecting to another country.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e7.1 \u0026#8211; 9.0:\u003c/b\u003e This is a very fast VPN. Connecting to a server in your own country should barely affect your day-to-day internet usage. One or two long-distance connections we test will be too slow for demanding usage, like torrenting, 4K streaming, or competitive gaming.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e9.1+:\u003c/b\u003e A near flawless connection, using VPNs that attain this rating will be virtually indistinguishable from your connection without a VPN. You can turn it on and leave it running 24/7 as you go about doing everything you normally would online, uninterrupted.\u003c/p\u003e\n","heading":"What Do These Ratings Mean?"}]},{"color":"#f5f1f0","id":"633ed99e8dc2b","content":[{"body":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e0.1 \u0026#8211; 3.0:\u003c/b\u003e This VPN cannot be trusted to secure and anonymize your data. It either leaks your IP or DNS requests or does not work to encrypt your traffic on a fundamental level. It has no important extra features, like a VPN kill switch, or they also simply do not work.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e3.1 \u0026#8211; 5.0:\u003c/b\u003e This VPN may get some fundamentals right, but cannot be trusted to reliably encrypt your connection. It may use out of date protocols, fail specific leak tests, or not connect you to the server it claims to. It will be very light on extra features.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e5.1 \u0026#8211; 7.0:\u003c/b\u003e A VPN that we would still only recommend in part, services rated here will at least be a functioning product. It’s unlikely it will have a choice of protocols, cutting edge encryption, or a good selection of servers, though. It won’t work in China, but it will have a functional kill switch.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e7.1 \u0026#8211; 9.0:\u003c/b\u003e Most reputable VPNs will place here. They use standard protocols (like OpenVPN, WireGuard, or both), AES-256 encryption, suffer no serious leaks, and have a good selection of servers around the world. The kill switch will work, and there may even be some helpful added features like split tunneling or obfuscation. Some of these VPNs will work in censored countries like China.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e9.1+:\u003c/b\u003e These VPNs can do it all, and with consistency. A wide selection of the safest and fastest protocols, watertight encryption, a huge server network, and can be used to access the open internet in highly-censored regions. They either have a host of extra optional features, or have their benefits integrated by default.\u003c/p\u003e\n","heading":"What Do These Ratings Mean?"}]},{"color":"#f5f1f0","id":"633ed99fb494c","content":[{"body":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e0.0:\u003c/b\u003e Is entirely incapable of unblocking any streaming service we test for.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e1.0 \u0026#8211; 4.0:\u003c/b\u003e Can unblock US Netflix or BBC iPlayer, but nothing else.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e4.1 \u0026#8211; 7.0:\u003c/b\u003e Can unblock both of the above, or can unblock multiple Netflix libraries (including the US).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e7.1 \u0026#8211; 9.0:\u003c/b\u003e Unblocks US Netflix and BBC iPlayer, and either multiple other Netflix libraries or a variety of other services like Amazon Prime Video US and Disney+.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e9.1+:\u003c/b\u003e Can unblock all of the above. That means the most popular services like Netflix US and BBC iPlayer, a variety of international Netflix libraries, plus a selection of other services from around the world.\u003c/p\u003e\n","heading":"What Do These Ratings Mean?"}]},{"color":"#f5f1f0","id":"633ed9a0e2f23","content":[{"body":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e0.0:\u003c/b\u003e This VPN does not allow torrenting on its service. Attempts to do so will either fail or result in the termination of your account.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e0.1 \u0026#8211; 3.0:\u003c/b\u003e Torrenting is either very slow, very unsafe, or only permitted on a narrow selection of servers (often as low as just a single one).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e3.1 \u0026#8211; 6.0:\u003c/b\u003e Torrenting may be safe and widely available, but it will be much slower than you’re used to. Alternatively, the VPN may produce great download speeds but will have either an excessive logging policy or insecure encryption.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e6.1 \u0026#8211; 9.0:\u003c/b\u003e These VPNs are often fast, but are let down by a poor track record with user data, an unsatisfactory logging policy, or a lack of torrent-friendly extra features (like port forwarding).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e9.1+:\u003c/b\u003e These VPNs are flawless for torrenting. They provide download speeds almost indistinguishable from what you’re used to, they have a functioning kill switch, can be trusted with your sensitive data, and may even offer port forwarding.\u003c/p\u003e\n","heading":"What Do These Ratings Mean?"}]},{"color":"#f5f1f0","id":"633ed9a21ad99","content":[{"body":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e0.1 \u0026#8211; 3.0:\u003c/b\u003e These VPNs are extremely difficult to use. They are unintuitive, unresponsive, or simply do not work as intended.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e3.1 \u0026#8211; 6.0:\u003c/b\u003e These VPNs are far more difficult to use than they should be. They either overcomplicate things, are severely lacking in features, or suffer from major glitches and bugs.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e6.1 \u0026#8211; 9.0:\u003c/b\u003e Most VPNs on the market will fall here. At worst they are usable but a little clunky – at best they’re slick, well-designed, and satisfy both beginners and experts alike. Higher scoring VPNs will have a greater range of apps available, run smoother, have clearer labeling, and include extra features to make the user’s life easier (like a favorites list for servers).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e9.1+:\u003c/b\u003e These VPNs are the pinnacle of design. They have a consistent style between apps, with everything adequately labeled and located where you would expect it to be. It can be used effectively as-is, or advanced users can tinker in a detailed settings menu. It has apps available for almost every platform, including streaming devices or even Smart DNS support.\u003c/p\u003e\n","heading":"What Do These Ratings Mean?"}]},{"color":"#f5f1f0","id":"633ed9a35f39a","content":[{"body":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e0.0:\u003c/b\u003e The VPN offers no support of any kind. As of November 2024 there are no VPNs on the website that fall into this category, but it is theoretically possible.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e1.0 \u0026#8211; 5.0:\u003c/b\u003e The VPN will offer online resources only. This usually comes in the form of an FAQ section, knowledge base, or even a forum – which can vary in terms of helpfulness. It has no direct, person-to-person form of customer support.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlternatively, the VPN has either email support or, in rare instances, telephone support. The rating will vary depending on how quick you can get a reply and how accurate the help received is. There are no additional online resources to help you. This criterion has a minimum rating of 2.0 rather than 1.0 as we deem it to be slightly more helpful.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e5.1 \u0026#8211; 8.5:\u003c/b\u003e The VPN will have the aforementioned online resources, plus either email or telephone support.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e8.6+:\u003c/b\u003e The VPN has everything from the previous rating tier, with the addition of live chat support. In the very best cases this live chat will be available 24/7, too. As always, there is room for the rating to vary depending on how prompt and knowledgeable the support received is.\u003c/p\u003e\n","heading":"What Do These Ratings Mean?"}]}],"jumplinks":{"entries":[{"id":"why-you-should-trust-our-vpn-reviews","name":"Why Trust Our VPN Reviews","has_submenu":true,"sub_items":[{"id":"full-editorial-indie","name":"Fully Independent"},{"id":"experts","name":"Expert Reviewers"},{"id":"research","name":"Original Research"},{"id":"up-to-date","name":"Up-to-Date Information"},{"id":"testing-environment","name":"Consistent Testing Environment"}]},{"id":"how-we-test-vpn-services","name":"How We Test VPN Services","has_submenu":true,"sub_items":[{"id":"privacy-logging","name":"Privacy"},{"id":"streaming","name":"Streaming"},{"id":"speed","name":"Speed"},{"id":"security","name":"Security"},{"id":"server-locations","name":"Server Locations"},{"id":"ease-of-use","name":"User Experience"},{"id":"torrenting","name":"Torrenting"},{"id":"device-compatibility","name":"Device Compatibility"},{"id":"additional-features","name":"Additional Features"}]}]},"why_trust":{"stats":[{"name":"VPNs Tested","value":"61"},{"name":"Total Hours of Testing","value":"30,000+"},{"name":"Combined Years of Experience","value":"50+"}]}}}},"url":{"route":"/about/how-we-review-vpns","pathname":"/about/how-we-review-vpns","query":{},"asPath":"/about/how-we-review-vpns/","isFallback":false,"basePath":"","locale":"en","locales":["en","es","it","pl","pt","sv","fr","nl","de","ko"],"defaultLocale":"en","isReady":true,"isPreview":false,"isLocaleDomain":false},"showBanner":false,"vFlag":false,"variant":false,"GA4":"G-4F248Z2SQ6","fpTestsPercentage":"0","__N_SSP":true},"page":"/about/how-we-review-vpns","query":{},"buildId":"cccea06ab0f6e339e7f80faf99ab036863a440f1","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"gssp":true,"appGip":true,"locale":"en","locales":["en","es","it","pl","pt","sv","fr","nl","de","ko"],"defaultLocale":"en","scriptLoader":[]}</script><script defer="" src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=G-4F248Z2SQ6"></script><script> window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);} gtag('js', new Date()); gtag('set', 'url_passthrough', true); gtag('consent', 'default', { 'ad_storage': 'granted', 'ad_user_data': 'granted', 'ad_personalization': 'granted', 'analytics_storage': 'granted', 'security_storage': 'granted', }); gtag('config','AW-951368176'); gtag('config','G-J4RT6V6VSW'); gtag('config','G-4F248Z2SQ6'); // TEMP: Collecting data on dark mode preference if (window.matchMedia && window.matchMedia('(prefers-color-scheme: dark)').matches) { window.gtag("event", "dark_mode_preference", { value: "dark", send_to: "G-4F248Z2SQ6", }); } else if (window.matchMedia && window.matchMedia('(prefers-color-scheme: light)').matches) { window.gtag("event", "dark_mode_preference", { value: "light", send_to: "G-4F248Z2SQ6", }); } else { window.gtag("event", "dark_mode_preference", { value: "no-preference", send_to: "G-4F248Z2SQ6", }); } // End TEMP </script><noscript><div style="display:inline"><img height="1" width="1" style="display:none" alt="" src="//googleads.g.doubleclick.net/pagead/viewthroughconversion/951368176/?guid=ON&script=0"/></div></noscript></body></html>