4 best VPNs 2024: TunnelBear, NordVPN, and more

<!doctype html> <html lang="en"> <head> <title>4 best VPNs 2024: TunnelBear, NordVPN, and more | Mashable</title> <meta charset="utf-8"> <link rel="canonical" href="https://mashable.com/roundup/best-vpns"> <meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1"> <meta name="theme-color" content="#00aeef"> <meta name="application-name" content="Mashable.com"> <meta name="description" content="A virtual private network (VPN) makes it easy to skirt the prying eyes of your ISP and bypass geo-restrictions. 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Personal information about the links you click on and the sites you visit is highly valuable to third parties, including your internet service provider (ISP) and Google, who may want to share or monetize it. Certain government and law enforcement agencies are also eager to peek at your activity online for their own surveillance purposes.One way to reclaim some of your digital privacy is by getting a virtual private network, or VPN, a service that creates an encrypted connection between your device and one of the VPN provider's private, remote servers before spitting it out onto the open web. In plain English, a VPN lets you browse the internet without being tracked.Why do you need a VPN?Even the best VPNs can't make you totally anonymous on the web — the providers themselves can still see what you're doing while you're using their servers. But they can secure your personal info and hide your true IP address from prying eyes on the outside. The most trustworthy VPN providers operate transparently and abide by independently verified no-logs policies to prove that they don't collect or store user data in this process.\n SEE ALSO:\n \n The best free VPN\n \n \n \nWhile not its primary purpose, a VPN's ability to conceal your real IP address also makes it useful for spoofing your location. This will allow you to bypass geo-restrictions on content that's not available in your country or region. Thanks to a new ban on a popular porn tube site in Florida (you know the one), this will be especially pertinent for horny Floridians going into the new year.What is the No. 1 best VPN?After testing (and retesting) some of the most popular VPN providers on multiple platforms, TunnelBear is the new alpha — my new top pick for most people. Its simple, adorable app supports split tunneling and unlimited simultaneous connections, and it offers a limited free tier. It's also doing some admirable work on the transparency front: Its privacy policy is plainly written, and it issues regular security audits and transparency reports that anyone can read. (Overall, its track record is spotless.)For users who want a more feature-rich VPN service, NordVPN is the one I recommend. It has a widespread server network that successfully unblocks regional content — hello, Love Island UK fans — and supports up to 10 simultaneous connections. Its nice-looking app includes multi-hop, among other specialty server types, and users can upgrade their plans with tons of extra security fixings (like an ad\/tracker blocker and a data breach scanner). NordVPN submits its no-log policy to regular third-party audits, though you need an account to read them, and it recently started issuing transparency reports. It does have one notable blemish on its reputation due to its handling of a server breath several years ago, but it seems to be heading in a positive direction from a trustworthiness standpoint.ExpressVPN and CyberGhost VPN are both honorable mentions for unblocking geo-restricted content and location spoofing, though I wouldn't necessarily recommend either of them for long-term use for reasons I get into below.What I'm testing nextI recently tried the free version of Proton VPN on Windows and think it's a very strong contender for a future addition to this list: Its business model revolves around transparency and digital safety, and its free tier has no data limits. I'll make a final call after trying the paid version of it and more of its apps.Read on for Mashable's guide to the best VPN services of 2024. FYI: Prices for most VPN providers' long-term plans change frequently. The rates listed here were accurate at the time of publication.","datePublished":"2024-12-24T10:00:00+00:00","publisher":{"@type":"Organization","url":"https:\/\/mashable.com\/","name":"Mashable","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https:\/\/mashable.com\/images\/mashable-logomark.png","width":2400,"height":2400},"sameAs":["https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/mashable\/","https:\/\/twitter.com\/mashable","https:\/\/flipboard.com\/@Mashable","https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/mashable\/","https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/user\/mashable"],"description":"Mashable is a global, multi-platform media and entertainment company.\n Powered by its own proprietary technology, Mashable is the go-to source for tech,\n digital culture and entertainment content for its dedicated and influential audience around the globe.","publishingPrinciples":"https:\/\/mashable.com\/about\/editorial-standards"},"author":[{"@type":"Person","name":"Haley Henschel","email":"haley.henschel@mashable.com","url":"https:\/\/mashable.com\/author\/haleyhenschel","jobTitle":"Senior Shopping Reporter","image":[{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https:\/\/helios-i.mashable.com\/imagery\/defaults\/fallback-thumbnail.fill.size_1200x675.1.png","width":1200,"height":675,"caption":"Default Image"},{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https:\/\/helios-i.mashable.com\/imagery\/defaults\/fallback-thumbnail.fill.size_1200x900.1.png","width":1200,"height":900,"caption":"Default Image"},{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https:\/\/helios-i.mashable.com\/imagery\/defaults\/fallback-thumbnail.fill.size_1200x1200.1.png","width":1200,"height":1200,"caption":"Default Image"}]}],"image":[{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https:\/\/helios-i.mashable.com\/imagery\/roundups\/07rKRgEqv2jP6cUP3XA3tfv\/hero-image.fill.size_1200x675.v1706127667.png","width":1200,"height":675,"caption":"a close-up of someone using the nordvpn app on an apple macbook"},{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https:\/\/helios-i.mashable.com\/imagery\/roundups\/07rKRgEqv2jP6cUP3XA3tfv\/hero-image.fill.size_1200x900.v1706127667.png","width":1200,"height":900,"caption":"a close-up of someone using the nordvpn app on an apple macbook"},{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https:\/\/helios-i.mashable.com\/imagery\/roundups\/07rKRgEqv2jP6cUP3XA3tfv\/hero-image.fill.size_1200x1200.v1706127667.png","width":1200,"height":1200,"caption":"a close-up of someone using the nordvpn app on an apple macbook"}],"description":"Here's who to trust with your privacy (and money).","mainEntityOfPage":"https:\/\/mashable.com\/roundup\/best-vpns","articleSection":"Tech"}</script> <script type="application/ld+json">{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@type":"Organization","url":"https:\/\/mashable.com\/","name":"Mashable","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https:\/\/mashable.com\/images\/mashable-logomark.png","width":2400,"height":2400},"sameAs":["https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/mashable\/","https:\/\/twitter.com\/mashable","https:\/\/flipboard.com\/@Mashable","https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/mashable\/","https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/user\/mashable"],"description":"Mashable is a global, multi-platform media and entertainment company.\n Powered by its own proprietary technology, Mashable is the go-to source for tech,\n digital culture and entertainment content for its dedicated and influential audience around the globe.","publishingPrinciples":"https:\/\/mashable.com\/about\/editorial-standards"}</script> <script type="application/ld+json">{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@type":"BreadcrumbList","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/mashable.com"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Tech","item":"https:\/\/mashable.com\/tech"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"VPN","item":"https:\/\/mashable.com\/category\/vpn"}]}</script> <script type="application/ld+json">{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@type":"FAQPage","mainEntity":[{"@type":"Question","name":"What is a VPN and how does it work?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"<p>In the simplest terms, using a VPN (which stands for \"virtual private network\") lets you hide who you really are and where you really are while using the internet from everyone except the VPN. In less simple terms, a VPN is a service that sends your traffic through an encrypted connection to a remote server maintained by the VPN provider before it's dispatched to the public internet. The encryption part makes it so your traffic is unreadable to third parties like your ISP and Google; routing that traffic through a remote server then gives you a different IP address, which makes it look like you're browsing from somewhere you aren't actually located IRL.<\/p><p>Using a VPN is often likened to driving around in a rental car with tinted windows and a license plate that doesn't match your home state, or arriving at a location via secret trapdoor and wearing a mask while you go about your day. <\/p>"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What are the disadvantages of using a VPN?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"<p>There are a few notable downsides to using a VPN, besides the obvious \"it costs money\" thing, one being the VPN's affect on your browsing speed. It will virtually always be slower than your normal, unprotected connection. <\/p><p>Another issue is that sites may restrict your access to their content if they detect VPN usage. Some maintain blacklists of IP addresses that are known to belong to VPNs, including major streaming sites like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techradar.com\/vpn\/how-does-netflix-detect-and-block-vpn-use\" target=\"_blank\" data-ga-click=\"1\" data-ga-label=\"$text\" data-ga-item=\"text-link\" data-ga-module=\"content_body\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">Netflix<\/a>. If your IP address is frequently associated with multiple users, that's usually what gives it away.<\/p><p>Finally, there's always the risk that a VPN provider is shadily collecting and selling your personal information (see below) — hence the importance of picking one that's transparent and trustworthy.<\/p>"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Are free VPNs safe to use?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"<p>The answer is a little nuanced. VPNs that are completely free outright are generally not safe to use, as free VPN providers have been known to secretly log and sell user data, bundle their apps with malware, and\/or maintain poor security practices. (You know the saying about free lunch.) However, we do stand by certain premium providers' free <em>tiers <\/em>or <em>trials<\/em> that are protected by the same vetted policies as their paid counterparts; these are safe to use. This includes TunnelBear Free and CyberGhost VPN's <a href=\"https:\/\/zdcs.link\/G1N3E?pageview_type=Standard&template=roundup&module=content_body&element=offer&item=text-link&element_label=free%20trial&object_type=roundup&object_uuid=07rKRgEqv2jP6cUP3XA3tfv&short_url=G1N3E&u=https%3A%2F%2Fmashable.com%2Froundup%2Fbest-vpns\" rel=\"sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" data-ga-click=\"1\" data-ga-label=\"$text\" data-ga-item=\"text-link\" data-ga-module=\"content_body\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">free trial<\/a> of up to seven days.<\/p><p>It bears mentioning that free versions of premium VPNs tend to be limited in terms of their server selections, browsing data allotments, available features, and abilities to unblock streaming sites, so they're best for situational or occasional use. Those who want a dependable, everyday VPN should opt for a paid subscription.<\/p>"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"If your laptop has a VPN, is your phone also protected?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"<p>VPNs maintain separate apps for separate platforms, so no — you'll need to install your VPN on every individual device you want secured. Most VPN providers offer support for at least five simultaneous connections, for what it's worth. (If you have a bunch of devices that need protecting or live in a larger household, look for a provider that offers unlimited simultaneous connections — TunnelBear, for instance.)<\/p>"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Can you use Incognito mode instead of a VPN?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"<p>Your browser's Incognito\/private mode only gets you so far — it'll clear your history, searches, <a href=\"https:\/\/mashable.com\/article\/google-will-phase-out-cookies-in-chrome\" target=\"_self\" data-ga-click=\"1\" data-ga-label=\"$text\" data-ga-item=\"text-link\" data-ga-module=\"content_body\">cookies<\/a>, and login deets, preventing other users of the same device from seeing what you've been up to, but it <em>won't<\/em> hide and secure your connection from your ISP and other prying eyes. Incognito mode is not a substitute for a VPN.<\/p>"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Are VPNs legal?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"<p>Aside from the few countries that have restricted or outright banned them (including Belarus, China, Iran, Iraq, North Korea, Oman, Russia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, and the United Arab Emirates), VPNs are perfectly legal in most of the world. But keep in mind that illegal activities like torrenting copyrighted material, buying prohibited goods, and hacking are still illegal even with a VPN. Let's not get too brazen, here.<\/p><p>Along those same lines, using a VPN to unblock streaming services from a country where it's not available isn't technically against the law, but it <em>is<\/em> a violation of the company's terms of use — i.e., you may get slapped with a warning, IP ban, or error message if caught.<\/p>"}}]}</script> <script type="application/ld+json">{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@type":"ItemList","numberOfItems":4,"url":"https:\/\/mashable.com\/roundup\/best-vpns","name":"The best VPN services of 2024, tested and reviewed","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"TunnelBear","item":{"@type":"Product","name":"TunnelBear","image":[{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https:\/\/helios-i.mashable.com\/imagery\/roundup-products\/03OLMLw1nF55yBE9hSIgfLP\/product-image.fill.size_1200x675.v1706028694.jpg","width":1200,"height":675,"caption":"the TunnelBear 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beginner-friendly"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":5,"name":"Kill switch (\"VigilantBear\")"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":6,"name":"Unlimited simultaneous connections with paid plan"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":7,"name":"Split tunneling (\"SplitBear\") available on all platforms"}]},"negativeNotes":{"@type":"ItemList","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"No money-back guarantee or on-demand support"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Not available on a ton of platforms"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"No multi-hop connections"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":4,"name":"Small server network compared to its competition"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":5,"name":"Couldn't unblock regional content in 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If you buy something through links on our site, Mashable may earn an affiliate commission. </div> </div> </header> <main class="justify-between items-stretch px-4 mx-auto lg:flex max-w-8xl"> <section class="flex-grow 2xl:pr-4" data-ga-module="content_body"> <div class="mx-auto mt-8 max-w-3xl"> <div x-data="{showMore:false}" data-ga-module="roundup-overview"> <h2 class="mx-auto mt-8 mb-1 max-w-7xl text-xl font-bold">Overview</h2> <div class="border-b-2 border-gray-100"> <div x-show="1===1 || showMore" style="display: block"> <div class="flex flex-wrap py-5 border-t-2 border-gray-100 md:flex-nowrap md:py-6"> <div class="flex-none order-1 w-1/3 md:w-32 md:order-0 !h-[72px] "> <a href="https://cc.mashable.com/v1/otc/03bCs1jQxEftXGkZ7A6Km1e?merchant=01C57xYg2LfYc2EUB9HHXoR&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tkqlhce.com%2Fclick-5226272-14327887%3Fsid%3Ddealsroundup&template=roundup&module=roundup-overview&element=product-image&item=image&position=1&element_label=image&u=https%3A%2F%2Fmashable.com%2Froundup%2Fbest-vpns&object_type=roundup&object_uuid=07rKRgEqv2jP6cUP3XA3tfv" data-commerce="1" target="_blank" rel="sponsored" data-parent-group="affiliate-link" title="(opens in a new window)" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-element="product-image" data-ga-action="image" data-ga-item="image" data-ga-label="image" data-ga-position="1" data-ga-module="roundup-overview"> <img class="object-scale-down max-h-full" src="https://helios-i.mashable.com/imagery/roundup-products/03OLMLw1nF55yBE9hSIgfLP/product-image.fit_lpad.size_128x72.v1706028694.jpg" alt="the TunnelBear logo" width="128" height="72" loading="lazy" > </a> </div> <div class="flex flex-col pr-4 w-2/3 md:flex-row md:order-1 grow order-0"> <div class="md:ml-4 md:grow"> <div class="mb-1 text-sm font-bold leading-tight uppercase md:text-xs">Best VPN for most people</div> <h3 class="group"> <a href="https://cc.mashable.com/v1/otc/03bCs1jQxEftXGkZ7A6Km1e?merchant=01C57xYg2LfYc2EUB9HHXoR&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tkqlhce.com%2Fclick-5226272-14327887%3Fsid%3Ddealsroundup&template=roundup&module=roundup-overview&element=product-title&item=offer-title&position=1&element_label=TunnelBear&u=https%3A%2F%2Fmashable.com%2Froundup%2Fbest-vpns&object_type=roundup&object_uuid=07rKRgEqv2jP6cUP3XA3tfv" data-commerce="1" target="_blank" rel="sponsored" data-parent-group="affiliate-link" title="(opens in a new window)" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-element="product-title" data-ga-action="offer-title" data-ga-item="offer-title" data-ga-label="TunnelBear" data-ga-position="1" data-ga-module="roundup-overview" class="block font-bold md:text-lg hover:underline text-secondary-300 visited:text-secondary-300"> TunnelBear </a> </h3> </div> <div class="my-4 w-32 text-xs font-bold tracking-wide md:flex-none md:ml-2 hover:underline"> <span class="cursor-pointer" @click="document.getElementById('product-03OLMLw1nF55yBE9hSIgfLP').scrollIntoView({ behavior: 'smooth' })">Jump to Details <svg class="w-3 h-3 ml-1 mb-1 inline-block" width="12" height="13" viewBox="0 0 12 13" fill="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"> <path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M5.41671 9.84171V0.75H6.58338V9.84171L10.2542 6.17085L11.0792 6.99581L6.00004 12.075L0.920898 6.99581L1.74586 6.17085L5.41671 9.84171Z" fill="black"/> </svg> </span> </div> </div> <div class="order-2 w-full whitespace-nowrap md:flex-none md:w-44 grow"> <div class=""> <a href="https://cc.mashable.com/v1/otc/03bCs1jQxEftXGkZ7A6Km1e?merchant=01C57xYg2LfYc2EUB9HHXoR&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tkqlhce.com%2Fclick-5226272-14327887%3Fsid%3Ddealsroundup&template=roundup&module=roundup-overview&element=offer&item=offer-buy-button&position=1&element_label=67%25+off+3-Year+Plan+for+%24120+TunnelBear&u=https%3A%2F%2Fmashable.com%2Froundup%2Fbest-vpns&object_type=roundup&object_uuid=07rKRgEqv2jP6cUP3XA3tfv" data-commerce="1" target="_blank" rel="sponsored" data-parent-group="affiliate-link" title="(opens in a new window)" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-element="offer" data-ga-action="offer-buy-button" data-ga-item="offer-buy-button" data-ga-label="67% off 3-Year Plan for $120 TunnelBear" data-ga-position="1" data-ga-module="roundup-overview" class="overflow-hidden px-2 mx-auto w-full font-sans text-base font-bold tracking-wide leading-6 text-center btn btn-secondary bg-secondary-300 text-ellipsis"> 67% off 3-Year Plan for $120 TunnelBear </a> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div x-show="1===1 || showMore" style="display: block"> <div class="flex flex-wrap py-5 border-t-2 border-gray-100 md:flex-nowrap md:py-6"> <div class="flex-none order-1 w-1/3 md:w-32 md:order-0 !h-[72px] "> <a href="https://cc.mashable.com/v1/otc/03bCs1jQxEftXGkZ7A6Km1e?merchant=06VLxJy9cKWRCbN93QqOS3E&url=https%3A%2F%2Fgo.nordvpn.net%2Faff_c%3Foffer_id%3D129%26aff_id%3D614&template=roundup&module=roundup-overview&element=product-image&item=image&position=2&element_label=image&u=https%3A%2F%2Fmashable.com%2Froundup%2Fbest-vpns&object_type=roundup&object_uuid=07rKRgEqv2jP6cUP3XA3tfv" data-commerce="1" target="_blank" rel="sponsored" data-parent-group="affiliate-link" title="(opens in a new window)" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-element="product-image" data-ga-action="image" data-ga-item="image" data-ga-label="image" data-ga-position="2" data-ga-module="roundup-overview"> <img class="object-scale-down max-h-full" src="https://helios-i.mashable.com/imagery/roundup-products/032z7K54EhHcWQL7oo1ls5G/product-image.fit_lpad.size_128x72.v1706028436.png" alt="the NordVPN logo" width="128" height="72" loading="lazy" > </a> </div> <div class="flex flex-col pr-4 w-2/3 md:flex-row md:order-1 grow order-0"> <div class="md:ml-4 md:grow"> <div class="mb-1 text-sm font-bold leading-tight uppercase md:text-xs">Best premium VPN</div> <h3 class="group"> <a href="https://cc.mashable.com/v1/otc/03bCs1jQxEftXGkZ7A6Km1e?merchant=06VLxJy9cKWRCbN93QqOS3E&url=https%3A%2F%2Fgo.nordvpn.net%2Faff_c%3Foffer_id%3D129%26aff_id%3D614&template=roundup&module=roundup-overview&element=product-title&item=offer-title&position=2&element_label=NordVPN&u=https%3A%2F%2Fmashable.com%2Froundup%2Fbest-vpns&object_type=roundup&object_uuid=07rKRgEqv2jP6cUP3XA3tfv" data-commerce="1" target="_blank" rel="sponsored" data-parent-group="affiliate-link" title="(opens in a new window)" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-element="product-title" data-ga-action="offer-title" data-ga-item="offer-title" data-ga-label="NordVPN" data-ga-position="2" data-ga-module="roundup-overview" class="block font-bold md:text-lg hover:underline text-secondary-300 visited:text-secondary-300"> NordVPN </a> </h3> </div> <div class="my-4 w-32 text-xs font-bold tracking-wide md:flex-none md:ml-2 hover:underline"> <span class="cursor-pointer" @click="document.getElementById('product-032z7K54EhHcWQL7oo1ls5G').scrollIntoView({ behavior: 'smooth' })">Jump to Details <svg class="w-3 h-3 ml-1 mb-1 inline-block" width="12" height="13" viewBox="0 0 12 13" fill="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"> <path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M5.41671 9.84171V0.75H6.58338V9.84171L10.2542 6.17085L11.0792 6.99581L6.00004 12.075L0.920898 6.99581L1.74586 6.17085L5.41671 9.84171Z" fill="black"/> </svg> </span> </div> </div> <div class="order-2 w-full whitespace-nowrap md:flex-none md:w-44 grow"> <div class=""> <a href="https://cc.mashable.com/v1/otc/03bCs1jQxEftXGkZ7A6Km1e?merchant=06VLxJy9cKWRCbN93QqOS3E&url=https%3A%2F%2Fgo.nordvpn.net%2Faff_c%3Foffer_id%3D129%26aff_id%3D614&template=roundup&module=roundup-overview&element=offer&item=offer-buy-button&position=2&element_label=Up+to+72%25+Off+on+2+Year+Plans+%2B+Up+to+1+Year+Free+with+the+Purchase+of+the+Prime+Plan+NordVPN&u=https%3A%2F%2Fmashable.com%2Froundup%2Fbest-vpns&object_type=roundup&object_uuid=07rKRgEqv2jP6cUP3XA3tfv" data-commerce="1" target="_blank" rel="sponsored" data-parent-group="affiliate-link" title="(opens in a new window)" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-element="offer" data-ga-action="offer-buy-button" data-ga-item="offer-buy-button" data-ga-label="Up to 72% Off on 2 Year Plans + Up to 1 Year Free with the Purchase of the Prime Plan NordVPN" data-ga-position="2" data-ga-module="roundup-overview" class="overflow-hidden px-2 mx-auto w-full font-sans text-base font-bold tracking-wide leading-6 text-center btn btn-secondary bg-secondary-300 text-ellipsis"> Up to 72% Off on 2 Year Plans + Up to 1 Year Free with the Purchase of the Prime Plan NordVPN </a> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div x-show="1===1 || showMore" style="display: block"> <div class="flex flex-wrap py-5 border-t-2 border-gray-100 md:flex-nowrap md:py-6"> <div class="flex-none order-1 w-1/3 md:w-32 md:order-0 !h-[72px] "> <a href="https://cc.mashable.com/v1/otc/03bCs1jQxEftXGkZ7A6Km1e?merchant=06C1564mn6A4tB7Upl9yZrr&url=https%3A%2F%2Fgo.expressvpn.com%2Fc%2F10915%2F1462856%2F16063%3FsubId1%3Dpcmagdealmodule&template=roundup&module=roundup-overview&element=product-image&item=image&position=3&element_label=image&u=https%3A%2F%2Fmashable.com%2Froundup%2Fbest-vpns&object_type=roundup&object_uuid=07rKRgEqv2jP6cUP3XA3tfv" data-commerce="1" target="_blank" rel="sponsored" data-parent-group="affiliate-link" title="(opens in a new window)" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-element="product-image" data-ga-action="image" data-ga-item="image" data-ga-label="image" data-ga-position="3" data-ga-module="roundup-overview"> <img class="object-scale-down max-h-full" src="https://helios-i.mashable.com/imagery/roundup-products/020gUwYTnoBlpAYPcqQwrGh/product-image.fit_lpad.size_128x72.v1706031160.png" alt="the ExpressVPN logo" width="128" height="72" loading="lazy" > </a> </div> <div class="flex flex-col pr-4 w-2/3 md:flex-row md:order-1 grow order-0"> <div class="md:ml-4 md:grow"> <div class="mb-1 text-sm font-bold leading-tight uppercase md:text-xs">Best VPN for streaming or travel</div> <h3 class="group"> <a href="https://cc.mashable.com/v1/otc/03bCs1jQxEftXGkZ7A6Km1e?merchant=06C1564mn6A4tB7Upl9yZrr&url=https%3A%2F%2Fgo.expressvpn.com%2Fc%2F10915%2F1462856%2F16063%3FsubId1%3Dpcmagdealmodule&template=roundup&module=roundup-overview&element=product-title&item=offer-title&position=3&element_label=ExpressVPN&u=https%3A%2F%2Fmashable.com%2Froundup%2Fbest-vpns&object_type=roundup&object_uuid=07rKRgEqv2jP6cUP3XA3tfv" data-commerce="1" target="_blank" rel="sponsored" data-parent-group="affiliate-link" title="(opens in a new window)" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-element="product-title" data-ga-action="offer-title" data-ga-item="offer-title" data-ga-label="ExpressVPN" data-ga-position="3" data-ga-module="roundup-overview" class="block font-bold md:text-lg hover:underline text-secondary-300 visited:text-secondary-300"> ExpressVPN </a> </h3> </div> <div class="my-4 w-32 text-xs font-bold tracking-wide md:flex-none md:ml-2 hover:underline"> <span class="cursor-pointer" @click="document.getElementById('product-020gUwYTnoBlpAYPcqQwrGh').scrollIntoView({ behavior: 'smooth' })">Jump to Details <svg class="w-3 h-3 ml-1 mb-1 inline-block" width="12" height="13" viewBox="0 0 12 13" fill="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"> <path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M5.41671 9.84171V0.75H6.58338V9.84171L10.2542 6.17085L11.0792 6.99581L6.00004 12.075L0.920898 6.99581L1.74586 6.17085L5.41671 9.84171Z" fill="black"/> </svg> </span> </div> </div> <div class="order-2 w-full whitespace-nowrap md:flex-none md:w-44 grow"> <div class=""> <a href="https://cc.mashable.com/v1/otc/03bCs1jQxEftXGkZ7A6Km1e?merchant=06C1564mn6A4tB7Upl9yZrr&url=https%3A%2F%2Fgo.expressvpn.com%2Fc%2F10915%2F1462856%2F16063%3FsubId1%3Dpcmagdealmodule&template=roundup&module=roundup-overview&element=offer&item=offer-buy-button&position=3&element_label=%244.99+Per+Month+%2B+4+Months+Free+%2861%25+Off+2+Years+Plan%29+ExpressVPN&u=https%3A%2F%2Fmashable.com%2Froundup%2Fbest-vpns&object_type=roundup&object_uuid=07rKRgEqv2jP6cUP3XA3tfv" data-commerce="1" target="_blank" rel="sponsored" data-parent-group="affiliate-link" title="(opens in a new window)" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-element="offer" data-ga-action="offer-buy-button" data-ga-item="offer-buy-button" data-ga-label="$4.99 Per Month + 4 Months Free (61% Off 2 Years Plan) ExpressVPN" data-ga-position="3" data-ga-module="roundup-overview" class="overflow-hidden px-2 mx-auto w-full font-sans text-base font-bold tracking-wide leading-6 text-center btn btn-secondary bg-secondary-300 text-ellipsis"> $4.99 Per Month + 4 Months Free (61% Off 2 Years Plan) ExpressVPN </a> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div x-show="1===1 || showMore" style="display: block"> <div class="flex flex-wrap py-5 border-t-2 border-gray-100 md:flex-nowrap md:py-6"> <div class="flex-none order-1 w-1/3 md:w-32 md:order-0 !h-[72px] "> <a href="https://cc.mashable.com/v1/otc/03bCs1jQxEftXGkZ7A6Km1e?merchant=07EYXcRlXJ4DrYIe6PKiSct&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cyberghostvpn.com%2Foffer%2FPCMagUS_88tx9zl%3Faff_sub%3Dpcmagdealmodule&template=roundup&module=roundup-overview&element=product-image&item=image&position=4&element_label=image&u=https%3A%2F%2Fmashable.com%2Froundup%2Fbest-vpns&object_type=roundup&object_uuid=07rKRgEqv2jP6cUP3XA3tfv" data-commerce="1" target="_blank" rel="sponsored" data-parent-group="affiliate-link" title="(opens in a new window)" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-element="product-image" data-ga-action="image" data-ga-item="image" data-ga-label="image" data-ga-position="4" data-ga-module="roundup-overview"> <img class="object-scale-down max-h-full" src="https://helios-i.mashable.com/imagery/roundup-products/04fpheDl0Ki8uOFrBX7aFbS/product-image.fit_lpad.size_128x72.v1706047612.png" alt="the CyberGhost VPN logo" width="128" height="72" loading="lazy" > </a> </div> <div class="flex flex-col pr-4 w-2/3 md:flex-row md:order-1 grow order-0"> <div class="md:ml-4 md:grow"> <div class="mb-1 text-sm font-bold leading-tight uppercase md:text-xs">Honorable mention</div> <h3 class="group"> <a href="https://cc.mashable.com/v1/otc/03bCs1jQxEftXGkZ7A6Km1e?merchant=07EYXcRlXJ4DrYIe6PKiSct&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cyberghostvpn.com%2Foffer%2FPCMagUS_88tx9zl%3Faff_sub%3Dpcmagdealmodule&template=roundup&module=roundup-overview&element=product-title&item=offer-title&position=4&element_label=CyberGhost+VPN&u=https%3A%2F%2Fmashable.com%2Froundup%2Fbest-vpns&object_type=roundup&object_uuid=07rKRgEqv2jP6cUP3XA3tfv" data-commerce="1" target="_blank" rel="sponsored" data-parent-group="affiliate-link" title="(opens in a new window)" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-element="product-title" data-ga-action="offer-title" data-ga-item="offer-title" data-ga-label="CyberGhost VPN" data-ga-position="4" data-ga-module="roundup-overview" class="block font-bold md:text-lg hover:underline text-secondary-300 visited:text-secondary-300"> CyberGhost VPN </a> </h3> </div> <div class="my-4 w-32 text-xs font-bold tracking-wide md:flex-none md:ml-2 hover:underline"> <span class="cursor-pointer" @click="document.getElementById('product-04fpheDl0Ki8uOFrBX7aFbS').scrollIntoView({ behavior: 'smooth' })">Jump to Details <svg class="w-3 h-3 ml-1 mb-1 inline-block" width="12" height="13" viewBox="0 0 12 13" fill="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"> <path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M5.41671 9.84171V0.75H6.58338V9.84171L10.2542 6.17085L11.0792 6.99581L6.00004 12.075L0.920898 6.99581L1.74586 6.17085L5.41671 9.84171Z" fill="black"/> </svg> </span> </div> </div> <div class="order-2 w-full whitespace-nowrap md:flex-none md:w-44 grow"> <div class=""> <a href="https://cc.mashable.com/v1/otc/03bCs1jQxEftXGkZ7A6Km1e?merchant=07EYXcRlXJ4DrYIe6PKiSct&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cyberghostvpn.com%2Foffer%2FPCMagUS_88tx9zl%3Faff_sub%3Dpcmagdealmodule&template=roundup&module=roundup-overview&element=offer&item=offer-buy-button&position=4&element_label=%242.19+Per+Month+%2B+2+Months+Free+%2883%25+Off+2+Year+Plan%29+CyberGhost+VPN&u=https%3A%2F%2Fmashable.com%2Froundup%2Fbest-vpns&object_type=roundup&object_uuid=07rKRgEqv2jP6cUP3XA3tfv" data-commerce="1" target="_blank" rel="sponsored" data-parent-group="affiliate-link" title="(opens in a new window)" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-element="offer" data-ga-action="offer-buy-button" data-ga-item="offer-buy-button" data-ga-label="$2.19 Per Month + 2 Months Free (83% Off 2 Year Plan) CyberGhost VPN" data-ga-position="4" data-ga-module="roundup-overview" class="overflow-hidden px-2 mx-auto w-full font-sans text-base font-bold tracking-wide leading-6 text-center btn btn-secondary bg-secondary-300 text-ellipsis"> $2.19 Per Month + 2 Months Free (83% Off 2 Year Plan) CyberGhost VPN </a> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="tracking-wider hover:underline py-5 text-sm font-bold uppercase cursor-pointer hidden" x-show="!showMore" @click="showMore=!showMore"> See -1 More <svg class="w-3 h-3 mb-1 inline-block" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 384 512"> <path d="M342.6 233.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-192 192c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0s-12.5-32.8 0-45.3L274.7 256 105.4 86.6c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0l192 192z"/> </svg> </div> </div> </div> <div> <article data-autopogo class="mt-8 font-serif editor-content"> <p>Don't let it go to your head, but everybody wants you — more specifically, your browsing data. Personal information about the links you click on and the sites you visit is highly valuable to third parties, including your internet service provider (ISP) and Google, who may want to <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2021/10/ftc-staff-report-finds-many-internet-service-providers-collect-troves-personal-data-users-have-few" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">share</a> or <a href="https://blog.google/technology/safety-security/ads-privacy-questions-answered/" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">monetize</a> it. Certain government and law enforcement agencies are also eager to peek at your activity online for their own surveillance purposes.</p><p>One way to reclaim some of your digital privacy is by getting a virtual private network, or <a href="https://mashable.com/review/what-is-a-vpn" target="_self" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body">VPN</a>, a service that creates an <a href="https://www.pcmag.com/encyclopedia/term/encryption" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">encrypted</a> connection between your device and one of the VPN provider's private, remote servers before spitting it out onto the open web. In plain English, a VPN lets you browse the internet without being tracked.</p><h2>Why do you need a VPN?</h2><p>Even the <a href="https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/best-vpn/" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">best VPNs</a> can't make you totally anonymous on the web — the providers themselves can still see what you're doing while you're using their servers. But they <em>can</em> secure your personal info and hide your true <a href="https://www.pcmag.com/encyclopedia/term/ip-address" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">IP address</a> from prying eyes on the outside. The most trustworthy VPN providers operate transparently and abide by independently verified no-logs policies to prove that they don't collect or store user data in this process.</p><div class="flex mx-auto mt-8 w-full max-w-3xl font-sans text-lg leading-normal md:text-xl md:leading-7"> <span class="font-bold text-primary-400">SEE ALSO:</span> <a href="/roundup/best-free-vpn" class="flex items-center text-secondary-300"> <span class="ml-1">The best free VPN</span> <svg class="ml-1 w-4 h-4 font-normal fill-current"><use href="/images/icons/spritemap.svg#sprite-arrow-right-thin"></use></svg> </a> </div> <p>While not its primary purpose, a VPN's ability to conceal your real IP address also makes it useful for spoofing your location. This will allow you to bypass geo-restrictions on content that's not available in your country or region. Thanks to a new ban on a popular porn tube site in Florida (you know the one), this will be especially pertinent for <a href="https://mashable.com/article/pornhub-bans-florida-access" target="_self" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body">horny Floridians</a> going into the new year.</p><h2>What is the No. 1 best VPN?</h2><p>After testing (and retesting) some of the most popular VPN providers on multiple platforms, <a href="https://mashable.com/review/tunnelbear-review-vpn" target="_self" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body">TunnelBear</a> is the new alpha — my new top pick for most people. Its simple, adorable app supports split tunneling and unlimited simultaneous connections, and it offers a limited free tier. It's also doing some admirable work on the transparency front: Its privacy policy is plainly written, and it issues regular security audits and transparency reports that anyone can read. (Overall, its track record is spotless.)</p><p>For users who want a more feature-rich VPN service, <a href="https://mashable.com/review/nordvpn" target="_self" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body">NordVPN</a> is the one I recommend. It has a widespread server network that successfully unblocks regional content — hello, <em>Love Island UK</em> fans — and supports up to 10 simultaneous connections. Its nice-looking app includes multi-hop, among other specialty server types, and users can upgrade their plans with tons of extra security fixings (like an ad/tracker blocker and a data breach scanner). NordVPN submits its no-log policy to regular third-party audits, though you need an account to read them, and it recently started issuing transparency reports. It does have one notable blemish on its reputation due to its handling of a server breath several years ago, but it seems to be heading in a positive direction from a trustworthiness standpoint.</p><p><a href="https://mashable.com/review/express-vpn-review" target="_self" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body">ExpressVPN</a> and CyberGhost VPN are both honorable mentions for unblocking geo-restricted content and location spoofing, though I wouldn't necessarily recommend either of them for long-term use for reasons I get into below.</p><h2>What I'm testing next</h2><p>I recently tried the free version of <a href="https://mashable.com/roundup/best-free-vpn-for-pc" target="_self" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body">Proton VPN</a> on Windows and think it's a very strong contender for a future addition to this list: Its business model revolves around transparency and digital safety, and its free tier has no data limits. I'll make a final call after trying the paid version of it and more of its apps.</p><p><em>Read on for Mashable's guide to the best VPN services of 2024. FYI: Prices for most VPN providers' long-term plans change frequently. The rates listed here were accurate at the time of publication.</em></p> </article> <div class="flex flex-row items-center mx-auto mt-12 max-w-3xl"> <div class="mr-4 text-xs font-bold text-primary-400">MORE:</div> <div class="flex overflow-x-auto overflow-y-hidden flex-row my-auto text-center"> <a class="block py-2 px-4 my-2 mr-3 text-xs font-bold whitespace-nowrap rounded-full border border-black" data-ga-click data-ga-label="$text" href="/gifts/best-last-minute-gifts"> Best Last Minute Gifts </a> <a class="block py-2 px-4 my-2 mr-3 text-xs font-bold whitespace-nowrap rounded-full border border-black" data-ga-click data-ga-label="$text" href="/roundup/best-free-vpn"> Best Free Vpn </a> <a class="block py-2 px-4 my-2 mr-3 text-xs font-bold whitespace-nowrap rounded-full border border-black" data-ga-click data-ga-label="$text" href="/roundup/best-free-vpn-for-pc"> Best Free Vpn For Pc </a> <a class="block py-2 px-4 my-2 text-xs font-bold whitespace-nowrap rounded-full border border-black" data-ga-click data-ga-label="$text" href="https://mashable.com/roundups"> All Best Products </a> </div> </div> <div class="flex flex-col mx-auto mt-8 space-y-5 max-w-3xl md:space-y-8 roundup-products-list"> <div x-data="{showGood:false, showBad:false, showDetail:false}" id="product-03OLMLw1nF55yBE9hSIgfLP" data-ga-module="roundup-product-card" data-ga-element="roundup-product" class="font-sans !mt-12 px-6 border-4 border-secondary-300"> <div class="px-2 -mt-4 -ml-3 w-24 text-xl font-bold text-center bg-white md:ml-1 text-secondary-300">Our Pick</div> <div class="flex flex-wrap my-6 md:flex-nowrap md:mx-4"> <div class="w-full md:w-1/2"> <img class="object-scale-down max-h-full" src="https://helios-i.mashable.com/imagery/roundup-products/03OLMLw1nF55yBE9hSIgfLP/product-image.fit_lpad.size_672x378.v1706028694.jpg" alt="the TunnelBear logo" width="672" height="378" loading="lazy" > </div> <div class="flex flex-col justify-center mt-6 w-full md:pl-6 md:mt-0 md:w-2/3"> <div> <a href="https://cc.mashable.com/v1/otc/03bCs1jQxEftXGkZ7A6Km1e?merchant=01C57xYg2LfYc2EUB9HHXoR&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tkqlhce.com%2Fclick-5226272-14327887%3Fsid%3Ddealsroundup&template=roundup&module=roundup-product-card&element=product-title&item=offer-title&position=1&element_label=TunnelBear&u=https%3A%2F%2Fmashable.com%2Froundup%2Fbest-vpns&object_type=roundup&object_uuid=07rKRgEqv2jP6cUP3XA3tfv" data-commerce="1" target="_blank" rel="sponsored" data-parent-group="affiliate-link" title="(opens in a new window)" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-element="product-title" data-ga-action="offer-title" data-ga-item="offer-title" data-ga-label="TunnelBear" data-ga-position="1" data-ga-module="roundup-product-card" class="block text-2xl font-bold hover:underline text-secondary-300 visited:text-secondary-300"> <h2> TunnelBear </h2> </a> <h3 class="!text-sm font-bold uppercase md:text-base">Best VPN for most people</h3> </div> <div class="flex mt-6"> <div class="w-full whitespace-nowrap md:flex-none md:w-44 grow"> <div class=""> <a href="https://cc.mashable.com/v1/otc/03bCs1jQxEftXGkZ7A6Km1e?merchant=01C57xYg2LfYc2EUB9HHXoR&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tkqlhce.com%2Fclick-5226272-14327887%3Fsid%3Ddealsroundup&template=roundup&module=roundup-product-card&element=offer&item=offer-buy-button&position=1&element_label=67%25+off+3-Year+Plan+for+%24120+TunnelBear&u=https%3A%2F%2Fmashable.com%2Froundup%2Fbest-vpns&object_type=roundup&object_uuid=07rKRgEqv2jP6cUP3XA3tfv" data-commerce="1" target="_blank" rel="sponsored" data-parent-group="affiliate-link" title="(opens in a new window)" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-element="offer" data-ga-action="offer-buy-button" data-ga-item="offer-buy-button" data-ga-label="67% off 3-Year Plan for $120 TunnelBear" data-ga-position="1" data-ga-module="roundup-product-card" class="overflow-hidden px-2 mx-auto w-full font-sans text-base font-bold tracking-wide leading-6 text-center btn btn-secondary bg-secondary-300 text-ellipsis"> 67% off 3-Year Plan for $120 TunnelBear </a> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="my-8 mx-2 font-serif text-lg leading-loose border-t-2 border-gray-100 md:text-xl md:leading-7 editor-content"> <p><a href="https://mashable.com/review/tunnelbear-review-vpn" target="_self" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body"><em>Read Mashable's full review of TunnelBear.</em></a></p><h3>Who it's for:</h3><p>TunnelBear is a simple and trustworthy VPN that will serve most casual users well. (If you didn't know what "VPN" stood for prior to reading this guide, look no further.) It's also a good pick for those who don't want to pay for a VPN, provided they only need it for short-term, occasional use: It offers a restricted but workable free tier.</p><h3>Why we picked this:</h3><p>McAfee's TunnelBear democratizes the VPN experience, forgoing supplementary security features and convoluted industry lingo in favor of a charming, basic app. (It'll underwhelm power users, but VPN beginners should find it refreshingly approachable.) Users can connect to servers by sending a little bear to yellow pipes on its posterized map interface — pretty cute — or by selecting locations from a list. It was reliably fast during testing, if sometimes slow to connect initially, but I'd only recommend it for everyday, at-home browsing: TunnelBear's network is on the smaller side and can't unblock regional content. <a href="https://help.tunnelbear.com/hc/en-us/articles/360007244451-SplitBear-Complete-control-over-your-network-traffic" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">Split tunneling</a> is available on all platforms, though it's usually limited to web- <em>or</em> app-based traffic, not both. There's no multi-hop. </p><p>TunnelBear gives users the option of signing up for a free tier, which includes one simultaneous connection, country-level server selection, and 2GB of browsing data per month. <a href="https://mashable.com/roundup/best-free-vpn" target="_self" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body">Per a TunnelBear rep</a>, free users are subsidized by the provider's paid subscribers and covered by the same no-logs policy. (There's also no credit card required to sign up; some premium VPNs' free trials mandate it.) If you decide to upgrade, a paid Unlimited plan unlocks unlimited bandwidth, unlimited simultaneous connections, and city-level server selection. Users should be mindful that TunnelBear doesn't offer any sort of money-back guarantee, and refunds are only available on a case-by-case basis.</p><p>TunnelBear gets special props for its commitment to transparency, having been the <a href="https://www.tunnelbear.com/blog/tunnelbear_public_security_audit/" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">first</a> consumer VPN to publish a third-party audit of its infrastructure and technologies back in 2017. It's done one every year since, and the <a href="https://www.tunnelbear.com/blog/tunnelbear-completes-7th-annual-independent-security-audit/" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">seventh and most recent one</a> was published in February 2024. (You can <a href="https://cure53.de/pentest-report_tunnelbear_2023.pdf" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">read it in full</a> without an account.) The company also posts <a href="https://www.tunnelbear.com/blog/tunnelbear-transparency-report-for-2023/" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">transparency reports</a> about the government authority requests it gets.</p> </div> <div class="py-6 mx-2 border-t-2 border-gray-100"> <div class="flex justify-between items-center pr-2 cursor-pointer" @click="showGood=!showGood"> <h3 class="text-2xl font-bold cursor-pointer md:mt-0">The Good</h3> <div x-show="!showGood"><svg class="w-3 h-3 ml-1 mb-1 inline-block" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 384 512"> <path d="M342.6 233.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-192 192c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0s-12.5-32.8 0-45.3L274.7 256 105.4 86.6c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0l192 192z"/> </svg></div> <div x-show="showGood" style="display: none"><svg class="w-3 h-3 ml-1 mb-1 inline-block" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512"> <path d="M233.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0l192-192c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L256 338.7 86.6 169.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3l192 192z"/> </svg></div> </div> <ul class="mt-2 ml-8 list-disc" x-show="showGood" style="display: none"> <li class="py-0.5">Transparent, easily understandable privacy policy </li> <li class="py-0.5">Regular security audits and transparency reports (available for anyone to read) </li> <li class="py-0.5">Decent free version for occasional use </li> <li class="py-0.5">Simple, adorable interface is very beginner-friendly </li> <li class="py-0.5">Kill switch ("VigilantBear") </li> <li class="py-0.5">Unlimited simultaneous connections with paid plan </li> <li class="py-0.5">Split tunneling ("SplitBear") available on all platforms</li> </ul> </div> <div class="py-6 mx-2 border-t-2 border-gray-100"> <div class="flex justify-between items-center pr-2 cursor-pointer" @click="showBad=!showBad"> <h3 class="text-2xl font-bold cursor-pointer md:mt-0">The Bad</h3> <div x-show="!showBad"><svg class="w-3 h-3 ml-1 mb-1 inline-block" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 384 512"> <path d="M342.6 233.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-192 192c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0s-12.5-32.8 0-45.3L274.7 256 105.4 86.6c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0l192 192z"/> </svg></div> <div x-show="showBad" style="display: none"><svg class="w-3 h-3 ml-1 mb-1 inline-block" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512"> <path d="M233.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0l192-192c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L256 338.7 86.6 169.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3l192 192z"/> </svg></div> </div> <ul class="mt-2 ml-8 list-disc" x-show="showBad" style="display: none"> <li class="py-0.5">No money-back guarantee or on-demand support </li> <li class="py-0.5">Not available on a ton of platforms </li> <li class="py-0.5">No multi-hop connections </li> <li class="py-0.5">Small server network compared to its competition </li> <li class="py-0.5">Couldn't unblock regional content in testing</li> </ul> </div> <div class="py-6 mx-2 border-gray-100 border-y-2"> <div class="flex justify-between items-center pr-2 cursor-pointer" @click="showDetail=!showDetail"> <h3 class="text-2xl font-bold cursor-pointer md:mt-0">Details</h3> <div x-show="!showDetail"><svg class="w-3 h-3 ml-1 mb-1 inline-block" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 384 512"> <path d="M342.6 233.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-192 192c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0s-12.5-32.8 0-45.3L274.7 256 105.4 86.6c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0l192 192z"/> </svg></div> <div x-show="showDetail" style="display: none"><svg class="w-3 h-3 ml-1 mb-1 inline-block" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512"> <path d="M233.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0l192-192c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L256 338.7 86.6 169.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3l192 192z"/> </svg></div> </div> <ul class="mt-2 ml-8 list-disc" x-show="showDetail" style="display: none"> <li class="py-0.5"> TunnelBear Free: Free! </li> <li class="py-0.5"> TunnelBear Unlimited: $9.99/month, $39.99/year, or $120/3 years </li> <li class="py-0.5"> TunnelBear Teams: $5.75/user per month </li> </ul> </div> <div class="py-8 mx-2"> <div class="flex justify-center py-4 text-sm font-bold">GET IT</div> <div class="justify-center md:flex md:space-x-8"> <div class=""> <a href="https://cc.mashable.com/v1/otc/03bCs1jQxEftXGkZ7A6Km1e?merchant=01C57xYg2LfYc2EUB9HHXoR&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tkqlhce.com%2Fclick-5226272-14327887%3Fsid%3Ddealsroundup&template=roundup&module=roundup-product-card&element=offer&item=offer-buy-button&position=1&element_label=67%25+off+3-Year+Plan+for+%24120+TunnelBear&u=https%3A%2F%2Fmashable.com%2Froundup%2Fbest-vpns&object_type=roundup&object_uuid=07rKRgEqv2jP6cUP3XA3tfv" data-commerce="1" target="_blank" rel="sponsored" data-parent-group="affiliate-link" title="(opens in a new window)" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-element="offer" data-ga-action="offer-buy-button" data-ga-item="offer-buy-button" data-ga-label="67% off 3-Year Plan for $120 TunnelBear" data-ga-position="1" data-ga-module="roundup-product-card" class="overflow-hidden px-2 mx-auto w-full font-sans text-base font-bold tracking-wide leading-6 text-center btn btn-secondary bg-secondary-300 text-ellipsis"> 67% off 3-Year Plan for $120 TunnelBear </a> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div x-data="{showGood:false, showBad:false, showDetail:false}" id="product-032z7K54EhHcWQL7oo1ls5G" data-ga-module="roundup-product-card" data-ga-element="roundup-product" class="font-sans !mt-12 px-6 border-2 border-gray-100"> <div class="w-14 h-2 md:ml-4 bg-secondary-200"></div> <div class="flex flex-wrap my-6 md:flex-nowrap md:mx-4"> <div class="w-full md:w-1/2"> <img class="object-scale-down max-h-full" src="https://helios-i.mashable.com/imagery/roundup-products/032z7K54EhHcWQL7oo1ls5G/product-image.fit_lpad.size_672x378.v1706028436.png" alt="the NordVPN logo" width="672" height="378" loading="lazy" > </div> <div class="flex flex-col justify-center mt-6 w-full md:pl-6 md:mt-0 md:w-2/3"> <div> <a href="https://cc.mashable.com/v1/otc/03bCs1jQxEftXGkZ7A6Km1e?merchant=06VLxJy9cKWRCbN93QqOS3E&url=https%3A%2F%2Fgo.nordvpn.net%2Faff_c%3Foffer_id%3D129%26aff_id%3D614&template=roundup&module=roundup-product-card&element=product-title&item=offer-title&position=2&element_label=NordVPN&u=https%3A%2F%2Fmashable.com%2Froundup%2Fbest-vpns&object_type=roundup&object_uuid=07rKRgEqv2jP6cUP3XA3tfv" data-commerce="1" target="_blank" rel="sponsored" data-parent-group="affiliate-link" title="(opens in a new window)" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-element="product-title" data-ga-action="offer-title" data-ga-item="offer-title" data-ga-label="NordVPN" data-ga-position="2" data-ga-module="roundup-product-card" class="block text-2xl font-bold hover:underline text-secondary-300 visited:text-secondary-300"> <h2> NordVPN </h2> </a> <h3 class="!text-sm font-bold uppercase md:text-base">Best premium VPN</h3> </div> <div class="flex mt-6"> <div class="w-full whitespace-nowrap md:flex-none md:w-44 grow"> <div class=""> <a href="https://cc.mashable.com/v1/otc/03bCs1jQxEftXGkZ7A6Km1e?merchant=06VLxJy9cKWRCbN93QqOS3E&url=https%3A%2F%2Fgo.nordvpn.net%2Faff_c%3Foffer_id%3D129%26aff_id%3D614&template=roundup&module=roundup-product-card&element=offer&item=offer-buy-button&position=2&element_label=Up+to+72%25+Off+on+2+Year+Plans+%2B+Up+to+1+Year+Free+with+the+Purchase+of+the+Prime+Plan+NordVPN&u=https%3A%2F%2Fmashable.com%2Froundup%2Fbest-vpns&object_type=roundup&object_uuid=07rKRgEqv2jP6cUP3XA3tfv" data-commerce="1" target="_blank" rel="sponsored" data-parent-group="affiliate-link" title="(opens in a new window)" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-element="offer" data-ga-action="offer-buy-button" data-ga-item="offer-buy-button" data-ga-label="Up to 72% Off on 2 Year Plans + Up to 1 Year Free with the Purchase of the Prime Plan NordVPN" data-ga-position="2" data-ga-module="roundup-product-card" class="overflow-hidden px-2 mx-auto w-full font-sans text-base font-bold tracking-wide leading-6 text-center btn btn-secondary bg-secondary-300 text-ellipsis"> Up to 72% Off on 2 Year Plans + Up to 1 Year Free with the Purchase of the Prime Plan NordVPN </a> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="my-8 mx-2 font-serif text-lg leading-loose border-t-2 border-gray-100 md:text-xl md:leading-7 editor-content"> <p><a href="https://mashable.com/review/nord-review-vpn" target="_self" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body"><em>Read Mashable's full review of NordVPN.</em></a></p><h3>Who it's for:</h3><p>It's overkill for VPN newbies and casual users, but NordVPN is the primo paid choice for power users who want the freedom to mess around with lots of settings and servers. If you opt for a long-term plan, it can also be reasonably priced.</p><h3>Why we picked this:</h3><p>Nord Security's well-established VPN has a clean and highly customizable app, which presents its server network in the form of a list and a minimal map. That network is the most geographically diverse server network out of all the VPNs I've tested thus far, with locations in 111 countries worldwide. It also includes specialty servers for multi-hop connections ("<a href="https://zdcs.link/6XkW3?pageview_type=Standard&template=roundup&module=content_body&element=offer&item=text-link&element_label=Double%20VPN&object_type=roundup&object_uuid=07rKRgEqv2jP6cUP3XA3tfv&short_url=6XkW3&u=https%3A%2F%2Fmashable.com%2Froundup%2Fbest-vpns" rel="sponsored" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">Double VPN</a>"), <a href="https://www.pcmag.com/encyclopedia/term/tor" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">Tor</a> connections ("<a href="https://zdcs.link/pgdnv?pageview_type=Standard&template=roundup&module=content_body&element=offer&item=text-link&element_label=Onion%20Over%20VPN&object_type=roundup&object_uuid=07rKRgEqv2jP6cUP3XA3tfv&short_url=pgdnv&u=https%3A%2F%2Fmashable.com%2Froundup%2Fbest-vpns" rel="sponsored" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">Onion Over VPN</a>"), P2P connections, and obfuscated servers; the latter makes it so no one can tell you're using a VPN. The app could be quite slow to initially connect in testing, but it ran well once I got on a server and consistently unblocked international streaming sites. Split tunneling is available on its Windows, Android, and Android TV apps.</p><p>One NordVPN subscription gets you support for up to ten simultaneous connections and access to a unique feature called <a href="https://zdcs.link/ak7q5X?pageview_type=Standard&template=roundup&module=content_body&element=offer&item=text-link&element_label=MeshNet&object_type=roundup&object_uuid=07rKRgEqv2jP6cUP3XA3tfv&short_url=ak7q5X&u=https%3A%2F%2Fmashable.com%2Froundup%2Fbest-vpns" rel="sponsored" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">MeshNet</a>, which lets you steer traffic through other devices running the NordVPN app (essentially creating your own private network). Users can upgrade its Basic, VPN-only plan to other tiers with extras like <a href="https://zdcs.link/9wX7rb?pageview_type=Standard&template=roundup&module=content_body&element=offer&item=text-link&element_label=Threat%20Protection%20Pro&object_type=roundup&object_uuid=07rKRgEqv2jP6cUP3XA3tfv&short_url=9wX7rb&u=https%3A%2F%2Fmashable.com%2Froundup%2Fbest-vpns" rel="sponsored" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">Threat Protection Pro</a> (an anti-malware/tracker tool), a dark web monitor, a password manager, file encryption, and <a href="https://nordvpn.com/blog/introducing-nordprotect/" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">NordProtect</a>, an all-new identity theft protection service. These won't make the actual VPN any better or stronger, but they're convenient add-ons if you're trying to flesh out a digital security suite. Its plans can be a decent value if you pick one of the discounted yearly options.</p><p>Users should be aware of a transparency <a href="https://techcrunch.com/2019/10/21/nordvpn-confirms-it-was-hacked/" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">blunder in NordVPN's past</a> but may find peace of mind from the network upgrades, boosted security standards, and bug bounty program it <a href="https://zdcs.link/3dBAV?pageview_type=Standard&template=roundup&module=content_body&element=offer&item=text-link&element_label=launched&object_type=roundup&object_uuid=07rKRgEqv2jP6cUP3XA3tfv&short_url=3dBAV&u=https%3A%2F%2Fmashable.com%2Froundup%2Fbest-vpns" rel="sponsored" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">launched</a> in the wake this scandal. These all supplement regular third-party audits of its no-logs policy and its monthly <a href="https://nordvpn.com/blog/nordvpn-introduces-transparency-reports/" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">transparency reports</a>, which recently replaced a <a href="https://nordvpn.com/blog/nordvpn-introduces-a-warrant-canary/" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">warranty canary</a>. Its fourth and most recent <a href="https://nordvpn.com/blog/nordvpn-no-logs-audit-2023/" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">audit</a> was published in January 2024 — though you'll need an account to read it.</p> </div> <div class="py-6 mx-2 border-t-2 border-gray-100"> <div class="flex justify-between items-center pr-2 cursor-pointer" @click="showGood=!showGood"> <h3 class="text-2xl font-bold cursor-pointer md:mt-0">The Good</h3> <div x-show="!showGood"><svg class="w-3 h-3 ml-1 mb-1 inline-block" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 384 512"> <path d="M342.6 233.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-192 192c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0s-12.5-32.8 0-45.3L274.7 256 105.4 86.6c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0l192 192z"/> </svg></div> <div x-show="showGood" style="display: none"><svg class="w-3 h-3 ml-1 mb-1 inline-block" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512"> <path d="M233.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0l192-192c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L256 338.7 86.6 169.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3l192 192z"/> </svg></div> </div> <ul class="mt-2 ml-8 list-disc" x-show="showGood" style="display: none"> <li class="py-0.5">Reliably unblocked geo-restricted streaming content in our testing </li> <li class="py-0.5">Solid privacy practices, including bug bounty program </li> <li class="py-0.5">Long-term plans are a decent value </li> <li class="py-0.5">24/7 support via email and live chat </li> <li class="py-0.5">Works on a huge variety of platforms </li> <li class="py-0.5">Large and widespread server network </li> <li class="py-0.5">Split tunneling available on certain platforms </li> <li class="py-0.5">Specialty servers for multi-hop ("Double VPN"), Tor access ("Onion Over VPN"), P2P, and obfuscated servers </li> <li class="py-0.5">Up to 10 simultaneous connections </li> <li class="py-0.5">Plans can be upgraded with anti-malware tool, dark web monitor, password manager, file encryption, dedicated IP, and more</li> </ul> </div> <div class="py-6 mx-2 border-t-2 border-gray-100"> <div class="flex justify-between items-center pr-2 cursor-pointer" @click="showBad=!showBad"> <h3 class="text-2xl font-bold cursor-pointer md:mt-0">The Bad</h3> <div x-show="!showBad"><svg class="w-3 h-3 ml-1 mb-1 inline-block" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 384 512"> <path d="M342.6 233.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-192 192c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0s-12.5-32.8 0-45.3L274.7 256 105.4 86.6c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0l192 192z"/> </svg></div> <div x-show="showBad" style="display: none"><svg class="w-3 h-3 ml-1 mb-1 inline-block" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512"> <path d="M233.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0l192-192c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L256 338.7 86.6 169.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3l192 192z"/> </svg></div> </div> <ul class="mt-2 ml-8 list-disc" x-show="showBad" style="display: none"> <li class="py-0.5">Expensive monthly plan </li> <li class="py-0.5">Occasionally struggled to connect in testing </li> <li class="py-0.5">Some lingering transparency concerns </li> <li class="py-0.5">Account required to read audits</li> </ul> </div> <div class="py-6 mx-2 border-gray-100 border-y-2"> <div class="flex justify-between items-center pr-2 cursor-pointer" @click="showDetail=!showDetail"> <h3 class="text-2xl font-bold cursor-pointer md:mt-0">Details</h3> <div x-show="!showDetail"><svg class="w-3 h-3 ml-1 mb-1 inline-block" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 384 512"> <path d="M342.6 233.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-192 192c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0s-12.5-32.8 0-45.3L274.7 256 105.4 86.6c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0l192 192z"/> </svg></div> <div x-show="showDetail" style="display: none"><svg class="w-3 h-3 ml-1 mb-1 inline-block" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512"> <path d="M233.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0l192-192c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L256 338.7 86.6 169.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3l192 192z"/> </svg></div> </div> <ul class="mt-2 ml-8 list-disc" x-show="showDetail" style="display: none"> <li class="py-0.5"> NordVPN Basic: $12.99/month, $68.85/year, or $96.93/2 years </li> <li class="py-0.5"> NordVPN Plus: $13.99/month, $82.35/year, or $121.23/2 years </li> <li class="py-0.5"> NordVPN Complete: $14.99/month, $97.35/year, or $148.23/2 years </li> <li class="py-0.5"> NordVPN Prime: $17.99/month, $142.35/year, or $229.23/2 years </li> </ul> </div> <div class="py-8 mx-2"> <div class="flex justify-center py-4 text-sm font-bold">GET IT</div> <div class="justify-center md:flex md:space-x-8"> <div class=""> <a href="https://cc.mashable.com/v1/otc/03bCs1jQxEftXGkZ7A6Km1e?merchant=06VLxJy9cKWRCbN93QqOS3E&url=https%3A%2F%2Fgo.nordvpn.net%2Faff_c%3Foffer_id%3D129%26aff_id%3D614&template=roundup&module=roundup-product-card&element=offer&item=offer-buy-button&position=2&element_label=Up+to+72%25+Off+on+2+Year+Plans+%2B+Up+to+1+Year+Free+with+the+Purchase+of+the+Prime+Plan+NordVPN&u=https%3A%2F%2Fmashable.com%2Froundup%2Fbest-vpns&object_type=roundup&object_uuid=07rKRgEqv2jP6cUP3XA3tfv" data-commerce="1" target="_blank" rel="sponsored" data-parent-group="affiliate-link" title="(opens in a new window)" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-element="offer" data-ga-action="offer-buy-button" data-ga-item="offer-buy-button" data-ga-label="Up to 72% Off on 2 Year Plans + Up to 1 Year Free with the Purchase of the Prime Plan NordVPN" data-ga-position="2" data-ga-module="roundup-product-card" class="overflow-hidden px-2 mx-auto w-full font-sans text-base font-bold tracking-wide leading-6 text-center btn btn-secondary bg-secondary-300 text-ellipsis"> Up to 72% Off on 2 Year Plans + Up to 1 Year Free with the Purchase of the Prime Plan NordVPN </a> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div x-data="{showGood:false, showBad:false, showDetail:false}" id="product-020gUwYTnoBlpAYPcqQwrGh" data-ga-module="roundup-product-card" data-ga-element="roundup-product" class="font-sans !mt-12 px-6 border-2 border-gray-100"> <div class="w-14 h-2 md:ml-4 bg-secondary-200"></div> <div class="flex flex-wrap my-6 md:flex-nowrap md:mx-4"> <div class="w-full md:w-1/2"> <img class="object-scale-down max-h-full" src="https://helios-i.mashable.com/imagery/roundup-products/020gUwYTnoBlpAYPcqQwrGh/product-image.fit_lpad.size_672x378.v1706031160.png" alt="the ExpressVPN logo" width="672" height="378" loading="lazy" > </div> <div class="flex flex-col justify-center mt-6 w-full md:pl-6 md:mt-0 md:w-2/3"> <div> <a href="https://cc.mashable.com/v1/otc/03bCs1jQxEftXGkZ7A6Km1e?merchant=06C1564mn6A4tB7Upl9yZrr&url=https%3A%2F%2Fgo.expressvpn.com%2Fc%2F10915%2F1462856%2F16063%3FsubId1%3Dpcmagdealmodule&template=roundup&module=roundup-product-card&element=product-title&item=offer-title&position=3&element_label=ExpressVPN&u=https%3A%2F%2Fmashable.com%2Froundup%2Fbest-vpns&object_type=roundup&object_uuid=07rKRgEqv2jP6cUP3XA3tfv" data-commerce="1" target="_blank" rel="sponsored" data-parent-group="affiliate-link" title="(opens in a new window)" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-element="product-title" data-ga-action="offer-title" data-ga-item="offer-title" data-ga-label="ExpressVPN" data-ga-position="3" data-ga-module="roundup-product-card" class="block text-2xl font-bold hover:underline text-secondary-300 visited:text-secondary-300"> <h2> ExpressVPN </h2> </a> <h3 class="!text-sm font-bold uppercase md:text-base">Best VPN for streaming or travel</h3> </div> <div class="flex mt-6"> <div class="w-full whitespace-nowrap md:flex-none md:w-44 grow"> <div class=""> <a href="https://cc.mashable.com/v1/otc/03bCs1jQxEftXGkZ7A6Km1e?merchant=06C1564mn6A4tB7Upl9yZrr&url=https%3A%2F%2Fgo.expressvpn.com%2Fc%2F10915%2F1462856%2F16063%3FsubId1%3Dpcmagdealmodule&template=roundup&module=roundup-product-card&element=offer&item=offer-buy-button&position=3&element_label=%244.99+Per+Month+%2B+4+Months+Free+%2861%25+Off+2+Years+Plan%29+ExpressVPN&u=https%3A%2F%2Fmashable.com%2Froundup%2Fbest-vpns&object_type=roundup&object_uuid=07rKRgEqv2jP6cUP3XA3tfv" data-commerce="1" target="_blank" rel="sponsored" data-parent-group="affiliate-link" title="(opens in a new window)" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-element="offer" data-ga-action="offer-buy-button" data-ga-item="offer-buy-button" data-ga-label="$4.99 Per Month + 4 Months Free (61% Off 2 Years Plan) ExpressVPN" data-ga-position="3" data-ga-module="roundup-product-card" class="overflow-hidden px-2 mx-auto w-full font-sans text-base font-bold tracking-wide leading-6 text-center btn btn-secondary bg-secondary-300 text-ellipsis"> $4.99 Per Month + 4 Months Free (61% Off 2 Years Plan) ExpressVPN </a> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="my-8 mx-2 font-serif text-lg leading-loose border-t-2 border-gray-100 md:text-xl md:leading-7 editor-content"> <p><a href="https://mashable.com/review/express-vpn-review" target="_self" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body"><em>Read Mashable's review of ExpressVPN.</em></a></p><h3>Who it's for:</h3><p>ExpressVPN could be worth the steep cost of entry for users who need a privacy-forward VPN that can access content around the globe. And frequent travelers may get good use out of its Aircove routers, which come with its VPN built-in. </p><h3>Why we like this:</h3><p>ExpressVPN maintains a widespread server network across 105 countries, making it a decent option for skirting geo-restrictions and spoofing locations. In my testing, it was always fast to connect and good at unblocking regional streaming sites. The app is stylish and user-friendly, revolving around a list of servers instead of a visual map, and you can use it on up to eight devices per account. It comes with a built-in password manager called "Keys" and blockers for trackers, malicious sites, ads, and <a href="https://www.expressvpn.com/features/parental-controls" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">adult sites</a>. </p><p>The catch is that all of this comes at a premium: ExpressVPN is expensive no matter the length of your plan, and it doesn't give you a ton for the money beyond Keys and those blockers. (For example, there's no multi-hop for extra protection, and its <a href="https://www.expressvpn.com/support/knowledge-hub/split-tunneling-desktop/" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">split tunneling</a> tool is restricted to Windows and older Macs.) On the bright side, ExpressVPN offers a free and unrestricted weeklong trial on mobile so you can try it before you commit.</p><p>Notably, ExpressVPN also makes WiFi 6 routers with its VPN software installed: the AirCove ($189.90) and the portable AirCove Go ($169.90). Both of them support unlimited simultaneous connections so you can protect entire households' worth of devices, from <a href="https://mashable.com/category/gaming-consoles" target="_self" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body">gaming consoles</a> to <a href="https://mashable.com/category/smart-home" target="_self" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body">smart home</a> devices. I think that's probably excessive for most people, but they could be handy for working remotely from hotels or Airbnbs, though I haven't tested or reviewed them personally.</p><p>ExpressVPN takes a strong approach to user privacy via a <a href="https://www.expressvpn.com/bug-bounty" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">bug bounty program</a> and service-wide audits, which include third-party scrutiny of its <a href="https://www.expressvpn.com/blog/kpmg-privacy-policy-cure53-trustedserver-audit/" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)"><u>no-logs policy</u></a>, <a href="https://www.expressvpn.com/blog/kpmg-privacy-policy-cure53-trustedserver-audit/" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)"><u>server technology</u></a>, <a href="https://www.expressvpn.com/blog/cure53-lightway-audit/" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)"><u>Lightway protocol</u></a>, <a href="https://www.expressvpn.com/blog/cure53-audits-expressvpn-aircove-confirming-the-routers-security-excellence/" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)"><u>Aircove router</u></a>, <a href="https://www.expressvpn.com/blog/cure53-ios-android-audit/" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)"><u>mobile apps</u></a>, and <a href="https://www.expressvpn.com/blog/mac-linux-windows-v12-audits/" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)"><u>desktop apps</u></a>. (It published its most recent no-logs audit in May 2024, and you can <a href="https://www.expressvpn.com/security-audit-reports/kpmg-privacy-policy-2023" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">read it</a> without making an account.) As of early 2024, it's also publishing biannual <a href="https://www.expressvpn.com/blog/expressvpn-transparency-report/" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">transparency reports</a>. However, ExpressVPN's <a href="https://mashable.com/review/express-vpn-review" target="_self" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body">ownership</a> by Kape Technologies might concern security sticklers.</p> </div> <div class="py-6 mx-2 border-t-2 border-gray-100"> <div class="flex justify-between items-center pr-2 cursor-pointer" @click="showGood=!showGood"> <h3 class="text-2xl font-bold cursor-pointer md:mt-0">The Good</h3> <div x-show="!showGood"><svg class="w-3 h-3 ml-1 mb-1 inline-block" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 384 512"> <path d="M342.6 233.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-192 192c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0s-12.5-32.8 0-45.3L274.7 256 105.4 86.6c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0l192 192z"/> </svg></div> <div x-show="showGood" style="display: none"><svg class="w-3 h-3 ml-1 mb-1 inline-block" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512"> <path d="M233.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0l192-192c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L256 338.7 86.6 169.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3l192 192z"/> </svg></div> </div> <ul class="mt-2 ml-8 list-disc" x-show="showGood" style="display: none"> <li class="py-0.5">Excellent privacy practices, including regular audits and bug bounty program </li> <li class="py-0.5">Recently introduced transparency reports </li> <li class="py-0.5">30-day money-back guarantee </li> <li class="py-0.5">24/7 support via email and live chat </li> <li class="py-0.5">Kill switch ("Network Lock") </li> <li class="py-0.5">Up to eight simultaneous connections </li> <li class="py-0.5">Geographically diverse server network </li> <li class="py-0.5">Built-in tracker blocker ("Threat Manager") for all platforms </li> <li class="py-0.5">7-day free trial on Android and iOS </li> <li class="py-0.5">Makes routers with built-in VPN</li> </ul> </div> <div class="py-6 mx-2 border-t-2 border-gray-100"> <div class="flex justify-between items-center pr-2 cursor-pointer" @click="showBad=!showBad"> <h3 class="text-2xl font-bold cursor-pointer md:mt-0">The Bad</h3> <div x-show="!showBad"><svg class="w-3 h-3 ml-1 mb-1 inline-block" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 384 512"> <path d="M342.6 233.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-192 192c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0s-12.5-32.8 0-45.3L274.7 256 105.4 86.6c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0l192 192z"/> </svg></div> <div x-show="showBad" style="display: none"><svg class="w-3 h-3 ml-1 mb-1 inline-block" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512"> <path d="M233.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0l192-192c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L256 338.7 86.6 169.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3l192 192z"/> </svg></div> </div> <ul class="mt-2 ml-8 list-disc" x-show="showBad" style="display: none"> <li class="py-0.5">Expensive </li> <li class="py-0.5">No multi-hop connections </li> <li class="py-0.5">Split tunneling only available on Windows and older Macs </li> <li class="py-0.5">Parent company has a shady past</li> </ul> </div> <div class="py-6 mx-2 border-gray-100 border-y-2"> <div class="flex justify-between items-center pr-2 cursor-pointer" @click="showDetail=!showDetail"> <h3 class="text-2xl font-bold cursor-pointer md:mt-0">Details</h3> <div x-show="!showDetail"><svg class="w-3 h-3 ml-1 mb-1 inline-block" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 384 512"> <path d="M342.6 233.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-192 192c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0s-12.5-32.8 0-45.3L274.7 256 105.4 86.6c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0l192 192z"/> </svg></div> <div x-show="showDetail" style="display: none"><svg class="w-3 h-3 ml-1 mb-1 inline-block" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512"> <path d="M233.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0l192-192c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L256 338.7 86.6 169.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3l192 192z"/> </svg></div> </div> <ul class="mt-2 ml-8 list-disc" x-show="showDetail" style="display: none"> <li class="py-0.5"> Pricing: $12.95/month, $99.95/15 months, or $139.72/28 months </li> </ul> </div> <div class="py-8 mx-2"> <div class="flex justify-center py-4 text-sm font-bold">GET IT</div> <div class="justify-center md:flex md:space-x-8"> <div class=""> <a href="https://cc.mashable.com/v1/otc/03bCs1jQxEftXGkZ7A6Km1e?merchant=06C1564mn6A4tB7Upl9yZrr&url=https%3A%2F%2Fgo.expressvpn.com%2Fc%2F10915%2F1462856%2F16063%3FsubId1%3Dpcmagdealmodule&template=roundup&module=roundup-product-card&element=offer&item=offer-buy-button&position=3&element_label=%244.99+Per+Month+%2B+4+Months+Free+%2861%25+Off+2+Years+Plan%29+ExpressVPN&u=https%3A%2F%2Fmashable.com%2Froundup%2Fbest-vpns&object_type=roundup&object_uuid=07rKRgEqv2jP6cUP3XA3tfv" data-commerce="1" target="_blank" rel="sponsored" data-parent-group="affiliate-link" title="(opens in a new window)" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-element="offer" data-ga-action="offer-buy-button" data-ga-item="offer-buy-button" data-ga-label="$4.99 Per Month + 4 Months Free (61% Off 2 Years Plan) ExpressVPN" data-ga-position="3" data-ga-module="roundup-product-card" class="overflow-hidden px-2 mx-auto w-full font-sans text-base font-bold tracking-wide leading-6 text-center btn btn-secondary bg-secondary-300 text-ellipsis"> $4.99 Per Month + 4 Months Free (61% Off 2 Years Plan) ExpressVPN </a> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div x-data="{showGood:false, showBad:false, showDetail:false}" id="product-04fpheDl0Ki8uOFrBX7aFbS" data-ga-module="roundup-product-card" data-ga-element="roundup-product" class="font-sans !mt-12 px-6 border-2 border-gray-100"> <div class="w-14 h-2 md:ml-4 bg-secondary-200"></div> <div class="flex flex-wrap my-6 md:flex-nowrap md:mx-4"> <div class="w-full md:w-1/2"> <img class="object-scale-down max-h-full" src="https://helios-i.mashable.com/imagery/roundup-products/04fpheDl0Ki8uOFrBX7aFbS/product-image.fit_lpad.size_672x378.v1706047612.png" alt="the CyberGhost VPN logo" width="672" height="378" loading="lazy" > </div> <div class="flex flex-col justify-center mt-6 w-full md:pl-6 md:mt-0 md:w-2/3"> <div> <a href="https://cc.mashable.com/v1/otc/03bCs1jQxEftXGkZ7A6Km1e?merchant=07EYXcRlXJ4DrYIe6PKiSct&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cyberghostvpn.com%2Foffer%2FPCMagUS_88tx9zl%3Faff_sub%3Dpcmagdealmodule&template=roundup&module=roundup-product-card&element=product-title&item=offer-title&position=4&element_label=CyberGhost+VPN&u=https%3A%2F%2Fmashable.com%2Froundup%2Fbest-vpns&object_type=roundup&object_uuid=07rKRgEqv2jP6cUP3XA3tfv" data-commerce="1" target="_blank" rel="sponsored" data-parent-group="affiliate-link" title="(opens in a new window)" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-element="product-title" data-ga-action="offer-title" data-ga-item="offer-title" data-ga-label="CyberGhost VPN" data-ga-position="4" data-ga-module="roundup-product-card" class="block text-2xl font-bold hover:underline text-secondary-300 visited:text-secondary-300"> <h2> CyberGhost VPN </h2> </a> <h3 class="!text-sm font-bold uppercase md:text-base">Honorable mention</h3> </div> <div class="flex mt-6"> <div class="w-full whitespace-nowrap md:flex-none md:w-44 grow"> <div class=""> <a href="https://cc.mashable.com/v1/otc/03bCs1jQxEftXGkZ7A6Km1e?merchant=07EYXcRlXJ4DrYIe6PKiSct&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cyberghostvpn.com%2Foffer%2FPCMagUS_88tx9zl%3Faff_sub%3Dpcmagdealmodule&template=roundup&module=roundup-product-card&element=offer&item=offer-buy-button&position=4&element_label=%242.19+Per+Month+%2B+2+Months+Free+%2883%25+Off+2+Year+Plan%29+CyberGhost+VPN&u=https%3A%2F%2Fmashable.com%2Froundup%2Fbest-vpns&object_type=roundup&object_uuid=07rKRgEqv2jP6cUP3XA3tfv" data-commerce="1" target="_blank" rel="sponsored" data-parent-group="affiliate-link" title="(opens in a new window)" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-element="offer" data-ga-action="offer-buy-button" data-ga-item="offer-buy-button" data-ga-label="$2.19 Per Month + 2 Months Free (83% Off 2 Year Plan) CyberGhost VPN" data-ga-position="4" data-ga-module="roundup-product-card" class="overflow-hidden px-2 mx-auto w-full font-sans text-base font-bold tracking-wide leading-6 text-center btn btn-secondary bg-secondary-300 text-ellipsis"> $2.19 Per Month + 2 Months Free (83% Off 2 Year Plan) CyberGhost VPN </a> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="my-8 mx-2 font-serif text-lg leading-loose border-t-2 border-gray-100 md:text-xl md:leading-7 editor-content"> <p><a href="https://mashable.com/review/cyberghost-vpn-review" target="_self" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body"><em>Read Mashable's full review of CyberGhost VPN.</em></a></p><h3>Who it's for:</h3><p>If you care about speed and location spoofing more than anything else, CyberGhost VPN has a gigantic server network that should make it easy to find a fast, dependable connection almost anywhere. Note that it's significantly cheaper than ExpressVPN if you opt for a longer-term plan, but its privacy practices pale in comparison. (Like Express VPN, it's also owned by Kape Technologies.)</p><h3>Why we like it:</h3><p>The closer a VPN server is to your actual location, the faster your connection will be. With CyberGhost, you should never find yourself stuck in a no man's land: It lays claim to the largest server network out of all the VPNs I've tried, boasting more than 11,500 locations worldwide. That includes specialty servers optimized for streaming, torrenting, and gaming, which only allow traffic for their respective activities.</p><p>I tested CyberGhost out of my home in Chicago, and found its list-based app clean and intuitive. It was quick to get me online, reliable when I was browsing, and adept at unblocking regional content. Its servers never improved my connection speeds — no VPN can — but using it felt like I didn't have a VPN running at all... well, most of the time. I was prompted to complete a <a href="https://support.google.com/websearch/answer/86640?hl=en" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">reCAPTCHA</a> every time I switched to a new CyberGhost server, which meant that Google could tell I was using a VPN. This suggests that the servers I used were crowded, but since I personally didn't notice any slowdowns, I just consider it a slight hiccup.</p><p>If you want to see if you run into the same issue, CyberGhost offers a free trial (up to seven days long, depending on the platform) and an industry-leading 45-day money-back guarantee. Feature-wise, CyberGhost only offers split tunneling on Android. Multi-hop is a no-go.</p><p>I don't love the fact that CyberGhost only just started completing regular <a href="https://www.cyberghostvpn.com/en_US/privacyhub/do-vpn-audits-matter/" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">independent audits</a>, and that you can only get a copy by requesting it via email, filling out a <a href="https://www2.deloitte.com/ro/en/footerlinks/contact-us.html" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">contact form</a>, or by creating a CyberGhost account. Security wonks may pass on it simply because it's owned by Kape. But CyberGhost deserves a teensy bit of credit for issuing transparency reports longer than anyone else (<a href="https://www.cyberghostvpn.com/en_US/transparency-report" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">since 2011</a>); as of 2019, they come out quarterly. CyberGhost has also had a <a href="https://www.cyberghostvpn.com/privacyhub/cyberghost-bug-bounty/" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">bug bounty program</a> in place since 2022.</p> </div> <div class="py-6 mx-2 border-t-2 border-gray-100"> <div class="flex justify-between items-center pr-2 cursor-pointer" @click="showGood=!showGood"> <h3 class="text-2xl font-bold cursor-pointer md:mt-0">The Good</h3> <div x-show="!showGood"><svg class="w-3 h-3 ml-1 mb-1 inline-block" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 384 512"> <path d="M342.6 233.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-192 192c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0s-12.5-32.8 0-45.3L274.7 256 105.4 86.6c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0l192 192z"/> </svg></div> <div x-show="showGood" style="display: none"><svg class="w-3 h-3 ml-1 mb-1 inline-block" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512"> <path d="M233.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0l192-192c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L256 338.7 86.6 169.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3l192 192z"/> </svg></div> </div> <ul class="mt-2 ml-8 list-disc" x-show="showGood" style="display: none"> <li class="py-0.5">Issues quarterly transparency reports </li> <li class="py-0.5">Has bug bounty program </li> <li class="py-0.5">Up to 45-day money-back guarantee </li> <li class="py-0.5">Free trial (up to seven days, depending on the platform) </li> <li class="py-0.5">24/7 support via email and live chat </li> <li class="py-0.5">Clean app design </li> <li class="py-0.5">Kill switch </li> <li class="py-0.5">Up to seven simultaneous connections </li> <li class="py-0.5">Massive server network </li> <li class="py-0.5">Affordable long-term plans</li> </ul> </div> <div class="py-6 mx-2 border-t-2 border-gray-100"> <div class="flex justify-between items-center pr-2 cursor-pointer" @click="showBad=!showBad"> <h3 class="text-2xl font-bold cursor-pointer md:mt-0">The Bad</h3> <div x-show="!showBad"><svg class="w-3 h-3 ml-1 mb-1 inline-block" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 384 512"> <path d="M342.6 233.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-192 192c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0s-12.5-32.8 0-45.3L274.7 256 105.4 86.6c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0l192 192z"/> </svg></div> <div x-show="showBad" style="display: none"><svg class="w-3 h-3 ml-1 mb-1 inline-block" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512"> <path d="M233.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0l192-192c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L256 338.7 86.6 169.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3l192 192z"/> </svg></div> </div> <ul class="mt-2 ml-8 list-disc" x-show="showBad" style="display: none"> <li class="py-0.5">Only just started conducting regular audits (and you have to jump through hoops to read them) </li> <li class="py-0.5">No multi-hop connections </li> <li class="py-0.5">Split tunneling only available on Android </li> <li class="py-0.5">Switching servers prompted reCAPTCHA in testing </li> <li class="py-0.5">Parent company has a shady past</li> </ul> </div> <div class="py-6 mx-2 border-gray-100 border-y-2"> <div class="flex justify-between items-center pr-2 cursor-pointer" @click="showDetail=!showDetail"> <h3 class="text-2xl font-bold cursor-pointer md:mt-0">Details</h3> <div x-show="!showDetail"><svg class="w-3 h-3 ml-1 mb-1 inline-block" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 384 512"> <path d="M342.6 233.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-192 192c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0s-12.5-32.8 0-45.3L274.7 256 105.4 86.6c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0l192 192z"/> </svg></div> <div x-show="showDetail" style="display: none"><svg class="w-3 h-3 ml-1 mb-1 inline-block" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512"> <path d="M233.4 406.6c12.5 12.5 32.8 12.5 45.3 0l192-192c12.5-12.5 12.5-32.8 0-45.3s-32.8-12.5-45.3 0L256 338.7 86.6 169.4c-12.5-12.5-32.8-12.5-45.3 0s-12.5 32.8 0 45.3l192 192z"/> </svg></div> </div> <ul class="mt-2 ml-8 list-disc" x-show="showDetail" style="display: none"> <li class="py-0.5"> Pricing: $12.99/month, $41.94/6 months, or $56.94/28 months </li> </ul> </div> <div class="py-8 mx-2"> <div class="flex justify-center py-4 text-sm font-bold">GET IT</div> <div class="justify-center md:flex md:space-x-8"> <div class=""> <a href="https://cc.mashable.com/v1/otc/03bCs1jQxEftXGkZ7A6Km1e?merchant=07EYXcRlXJ4DrYIe6PKiSct&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cyberghostvpn.com%2Foffer%2FPCMagUS_88tx9zl%3Faff_sub%3Dpcmagdealmodule&template=roundup&module=roundup-product-card&element=offer&item=offer-buy-button&position=4&element_label=%242.19+Per+Month+%2B+2+Months+Free+%2883%25+Off+2+Year+Plan%29+CyberGhost+VPN&u=https%3A%2F%2Fmashable.com%2Froundup%2Fbest-vpns&object_type=roundup&object_uuid=07rKRgEqv2jP6cUP3XA3tfv" data-commerce="1" target="_blank" rel="sponsored" data-parent-group="affiliate-link" title="(opens in a new window)" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-element="offer" data-ga-action="offer-buy-button" data-ga-item="offer-buy-button" data-ga-label="$2.19 Per Month + 2 Months Free (83% Off 2 Year Plan) CyberGhost VPN" data-ga-position="4" data-ga-module="roundup-product-card" class="overflow-hidden px-2 mx-auto w-full font-sans text-base font-bold tracking-wide leading-6 text-center btn btn-secondary bg-secondary-300 text-ellipsis"> $2.19 Per Month + 2 Months Free (83% Off 2 Year Plan) CyberGhost VPN </a> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="related-stories" data-ga-impression data-ga-module="related_stories" data-ga-element="related_stories_link" data-ga-item="title"> <div class="flex flex-row items-center"> <hr> <div class="px-4 mx-auto mt-0 w-full max-w-3xl font-sans text-2xl font-bold tracking-normal leading-normal text-center whitespace-nowrap shrink">Related Stories</div> <hr> </div> <ul> <li><a href="/article/how-do-vpns-work" data-ga-click data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-action="related_stories" data-ga-position="1">How do VPNs work? Here’s what they can do for you</a></li> <li><a href="/article/how-to-disable-a-vpn" data-ga-click data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-action="related_stories" data-ga-position="2">How to disable a VPN</a></li> <li><a href="/roundup/best-free-vpn-for-pc" data-ga-click data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-action="related_stories" data-ga-position="3">The best free VPNs for PC users</a></li> <li><a href="/roundup/best-vpn-for-iphone" data-ga-click data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-action="related_stories" data-ga-position="4">The best VPN for iPhone: Which iOS VPN should you pick?</a></li> <li><a href="/article/oct-29-nordvpn-black-friday-deal" data-ga-click data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-action="related_stories" data-ga-position="5">NordVPN is kicking off Black Friday already — get 74% off two-year subscriptions</a></li> </ul> </div> </div> <section class='mx-auto max-w-3xl'> <div class="flex flex-wrap mt-8 w-full font-sans subtitle-2 editor-content"> <p> <span class="mr-1.5 font-sans font-bold">Topics</span> <a class="underline-link hover:no-underline text-secondary-300 mr-1.5" href="https://mashable.com/category/apps-software" aria-label="Navigate to the Apps & Software tag" data-ga-click data-ga-label="$text">Apps & Software</a> <a class="underline-link hover:no-underline text-secondary-300 " href="https://mashable.com/category/cybersecurity" aria-label="Navigate to the Cybersecurity tag" data-ga-click data-ga-label="$text">Cybersecurity</a> </p> </div> </section> <div id="how-we-tested" class='mx-auto max-w-3xl'> <div class="px-6 pt-1 pb-9 mt-12 mb-12 border-l-8 md:mb-2 methodology editor-content bg-warmgray-100 border-secondary-100"> <div class="flex pt-8 space-x-2" data-ga-impression data-ga-category="methodology" data-ga-module="methodology_section" data-ga-label="The best VPN services of 2024, tested and reviewed"> <svg class="inline-block w-6 h-6 align-middle fill-current"><use href="/images/icons/spritemap.svg#sprite-clipboard-check-light"></use></svg> <span class="text-lg font-bold leading-6">How we tested</span> </div> <p>Making this guide to the best VPNs involved hands-on testing, which I'll describe in more detail shortly, but it also hinged heavily on guidance from cybersecurity experts. When it comes to the types of things consumers should look for in VPN services, they told me in separate interviews, much of what separates the good from the bad can be gleaned before anything is installed. These experts include:</p><ul><li><p><a href="https://cdt.org/staff/mallory-knodel/" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)"><strong><u>Mallory Knodel</u></strong></a>, Chief Technology Officer at the <a href="https://cdt.org/" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)"><u>Center for Democracy and Technology</u></a></p></li><li><p><a href="https://people.cs.uchicago.edu/~feamster/" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)"><strong><u>Nick Feamster</u></strong></a>, Neubauer Professor of <a href="https://cs.uchicago.edu/" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)"><u>Computer Science</u></a> at the <a href="https://www.uchicago.edu/en" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)"><u>University of Chicago</u></a>, Faculty Director of Research at the <a href="https://datascience.uchicago.edu/" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)"><u>UChicago Data Science Institute</u></a>, and founder/co-director of the DSI's <a href="https://internetequity.uchicago.edu/" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)"><u>Internet Equality Initiative</u></a></p></li><li><p><a href="https://www.law.georgetown.edu/faculty/paul-ohm/" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)"><strong><u>Paul Ohm</u></strong></a>, Professor of Law and Chief Data Officer at the <a href="https://www.law.georgetown.edu/" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)"><u>Georgetown University Law Center</u></a></p></li></ul><h2>What the experts said</h2><p>When you surf the internet freely without a VPN, you're being tracked online constantly by multiple third parties, including your Internet Service Provider (ISP), search engines like Google, and possibly even your employer or school. Connecting to a VPN means taking your traffic away from them and putting it in the hands of one lone entity instead, conceding exclusive, unfettered access to all of your browsing data. It's a privilege that needs to be earned, and the true caliber of a VPN ultimately comes down to whether you can wholly believe it's keeping you safe.</p><p>Unfortunately, the VPN industry is notorious for hyperbolic marketing, especially when it comes to privacy practices. This can "give VPN users a false sense of security if they don’t realize that the protections offered are not comprehensive," according to a <a href="https://www.consumerreports.org/vpn-services/vpn-testing-poor-privacy-security-hyperbolic-claims-a1103787639/" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)"><u>Consumer Reports</u></a> investigation into 16 providers. (Many popular VPNs shout about offering "military-grade" encryption, for example, which isn't a thing.) It's unwise to take a provider's "trust me bro!" claims at face value.</p><p><strong>So how do you know for sure if a VPN is <a href="https://cdt.org/vpns/" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)"><u>trustworthy</u></a></strong><strong>?</strong> A single Google search can be enlightening: A good provider won't have a long rap sheet for mishandling users' personal data or succumbing to server breaches, and bad headlines should raise a red flag — including those about a VPN's ownership or parent company. A swift, effective response to crises and a healthy dose of corporate accountability can offset these concerns in some cases, but I also place a high value on a pristine reputation.</p><p>The best VPN services should also be willing to open themselves up to scrutiny. Bragging about a strong "no logs" privacy policy that specifies how users' personal information gets protected is one thing. But subjecting that no-log policy to independent audits — and <em>making the results public</em> — provides a much higher level of assurance. </p><p>The most trustworthy VPNs will also issue regular transparency reports disclosing any requests for data they've received from government or law enforcement agencies. (These requests won't yield anything if a provider's privacy policy holds up.) Some go the extra mile by offering in-house bug bounty programs to researchers who comb their software and servers for vulnerabilities.</p><h2>Tests we run on VPNs</h2><p>After assessing their company policies, histories, and overall reliability, I hands-on test VPNs on mobile and desktop. (I tried all of the VPNs on this list using my personal iPhone 11 and my work-issued M1 Pro-powered Apple MacBook Pro.) I have each VPN connected for approximately four to eight hours at a time to get a general sense of the user experience as part of the average person's everyday workflow. I also put them through a handful of performance benchmarks:</p><h3>DNS leak tests</h3><p>Often <a href="https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/what-is-dns-how-it-works-domain-name-system" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">described</a> as "the internet's phone book," the DNS (Domain Name System) is basically a back-end directory that translates website domain names into computer-speak, aka internet protocol (IP) addresses. An <a href="https://mashable.com/article/how-to-find-your-ip-address" target="_self" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body">IP address</a> is a unique number that's assigned to a device when it's connected to the internet; it identifies the device's general location and the name of the ISP.</p><p>Without making things overly complicated (bear with me): When you search for a website, your browser sends a query to one of your ISP's DNS servers to track down its matching IP address(es) so it can send you to that page. Without the DNS, you'd have to type out a long string of numbers every time you wanted to visit a website. For example, instead of "Mashable.com," you'd enter "104.18.33.218" or "172.64.154.38" into your search bar.</p><p>A VPN is supposed to reroute your DNS queries to its own DNS servers while you're connected to it — that way, your ISP (and possibly other snoops) can't see where you are or what sites you're looking up. If the VPN is faulty, it may continue to send DNS queries to the ISP's DNS servers, putting your security at risk. That's the gist of a DNS leak.</p><p>Some VPN apps have built-in DNS leak tests that tell you if your connection is secure and whether your real IP address is being hidden. Otherwise, you can perform them via <a href="http://DNSleaktest.com" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)"><u>DNSleaktest.com</u></a>. When I try a VPN, I run its standard test twice: once with the VPN off, and once with it connected.</p><h3>Trying different use cases</h3><p>The No. 1 purpose of VPNs is to make it difficult for anyone other than the provider to identify and track your online activity, so every VPN I recommend must do that well — no exceptions. However, VPNs are also widely used to spoof user locations and skirt geo-restrictions on content, especially overseas <a href="https://mashable.com/roundup/best-streaming-services" target="_self" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body">streaming libraries</a>. (Services like <a href="https://mashable.com/category/netflix" target="_self" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body">Netflix</a> limit their libraries abroad because of region-specific distribution rights.)</p><p>While a VPN will never be disqualified simply because it can't get users access to geo-blocked content, it's a plus if it succeeds, so I still test for it. I do so by connecting to one of the VPN's UK servers from my home in Chicago and running a DNS leak test to see if my IP address changes accordingly, then attempting to watch <a href="https://www.itv.com/watch/love-island/2a3697" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)"><em>Love Island UK</em></a> on the UK streaming service ITVX.</p><h3>Speed tests</h3><p>The connection speed of a VPN depends on a lot of different variables, but it will almost always be slower than your regular internet connection, so it's not a huge factor in my final recs. That said, I try to get an idea of how well a VPN performs by using it for a lengthy period of time and running it through some quick <a href="https://www.speedtest.net/" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">Ookla Speedtests</a>. (I do three of them: one with the VPN off, one with the VPN connected to a local server, and one with the VPN connected to a French server.) If a VPN is noticeably sluggish to the point where it affects usability, I'll call it out. </p><p>A general rule of thumb for any VPN is that your connection speeds will be fastest when you're connected to a server that's geographically close to your actual location.</p><h2>Other important details</h2><p>I also take following factors into account as I use a VPN and decided whether to recommend it, listed in no particular order:</p><h3>Included features</h3><p>Most premium VPNs come with similar privacy tools, so I don't encounter major provider-to-provider discrepancies in this regard. Still, it's worth noting some of the important ones I look out for:</p><ul><li><p>A <strong>kill switch</strong> will immediately disconnect your device from the internet if your VPN drops. (This one's non-negotiable.) </p></li><li><p>Support for <strong>multi-hop connections</strong> that route your traffic through two or more of the VPN's servers. This adds an extra layer of protection. </p></li><li><p><strong>Split tunneling</strong>, a tool that sends some of your traffic through the VPN and some outside it to conserve bandwidth, can be useful for streaming and gaming.</p></li></ul><p>Oftentimes, providers will also bundle their VPN with additional security features like malware/adware blockers, data breach detectors, and cloud storage. These won't make the VPN itself any better, but they're good to have alongside your go-to <a href="https://mashable.com/roundup/best-antivirus-software" target="_self" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body"><u>antivirus software</u></a> and <a href="https://mashable.com/roundup/best-password-managers" target="_self" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body"><u>password manager</u></a>. (If you have to choose between a reputable VPN or one that comes with a bunch of add-ons, always go with the former.)</p><h3>Protocol type</h3><p>A VPN's <a href="https://cdt.org/insights/techsplanations-part-5-virtual-private-networks/" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)"><u>protocol</u></a> is the set of instructions that determine how data gets communicated between its servers and your devices. Many VPN providers have developed proprietary protocols within the past few years, but <strong>OpenVPN</strong> remains the most popular and widely respected option: It's stable, secure, and open-source, meaning anyone can inspect its code for vulnerabilities. <strong>WireGuard</strong> is another good pick that's newer than OpenVPN and supposedly <a href="https://mashable.com/article/wireguard-vs-openvpn" target="_self" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body">faster</a>.</p><h3>Encryption type</h3><p>A VPN protects your data by encrypting it, or scrambling it up into unreadable "ciphertext" that can only be decoded with a secret key or password. Virtually all premium VPNs use an encryption algorithm called <strong>Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) 256-bit encryption</strong>, which is pretty much uncrackable to third parties.</p><h3>Server network size and distribution</h3><p>Picking a VPN with a large server network means there's a lower likelihood of you sharing one with a bunch of other users, which is especially valuable for streaming (since there's more bandwidth to go around). </p><p>Relatedly, a VPN with a geographically diverse network of servers in many different parts of the world will make it easier for you to spoof specific locations and find one close to you to optimize connection speeds. Most premium VPNs maintain servers throughout the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Australia; few have a big presence in Africa.</p><h3>Number of simultaneous connections</h3><p>Most VPNs can be used on five to 10 devices per account (depending on the provider), which should be plenty for individual users. A handful of them support unlimited simultaneous connections to better serve bigger households.</p><h3>Customer support options</h3><p>Users should have access to some kind of help around the clock in case an issue arises with their VPN connection or account, whether it's by phone, email, or live chat. (Online help forums and tutorials are nice, but not enough on their own.) I also give preference to VPNs that offer some kind of money-back guarantee; in most cases, it's 30 days long.</p><h3>Overall value</h3><p>Premium VPN providers typically charge anywhere from $2 to $12 per month for access to their clients, depending on the subscription length. It's easier to justify the higher end of that spectrum if it gets you a reliable and responsible VPN with some useful security features.</p><h3>Ease of use</h3><p>Some VPNs are more intuitive and beginner-friendly than others.</p><p>It's important to note that many popular VPN providers posit their jurisdiction, or the location of their headquarters, as something that can have serious privacy implications based on local surveillance laws (such as the <a href="https://www.dni.gov/index.php/who-we-are/organizations/enterprise-capacity/chco/chco-related-menus/chco-related-links/recruitment-and-outreach/217-about/organization/icig-pages/2660-icig-fiorc" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)"><u>Five</u></a>, Nine, and 14 Eyes alliances). Without getting too in the weeds, the experts I spoke to said the average consumer shouldn't put a big stake in these claims, and that authorities will get access to user data one way or another if the need is great enough. What's more concerning, they added — to bring things full circle — is whether any data is being retained by a VPN provider in the first place. </p><p>If anything, users might be better off choosing a VPN headquartered in a country with strong consumer protections against deceptive marketing (like the U.S. and many countries in the European Union). These could come in handy if a provider's privacy policy was ever questioned.</p><p><em>Note: Ookla is owned by Mashable's publisher, Ziff Davis.</em></p> </div> </div> <section class="mx-auto mt-12 max-w-3xl"> <h2 id="frequently-asked-questions" class="text-3xl font-bold">Frequently Asked Questions</h2> <div class="mb-12 md:mb-16"> <div x-data="{drawerOpen: true}" class="pt-4"> <hr class="w-full border border-gray-100"> <button @click="drawerOpen = !drawerOpen" class="flex mt-4 w-full"> <h3 class="text-xl font-bold text-left grow">What is a VPN and how does it work?</h3> <div> <svg x-show="drawerOpen" class="inline-block w-6 h-6"><use href="/images/icons/spritemap.svg#sprite-chevron-down"></use></svg> <svg x-show="!drawerOpen" class="inline-block w-6 h-6"><use href="/images/icons/spritemap.svg#sprite-chevron-right"></use></svg> </div> </button> <div x-show="drawerOpen" class="font-serif editor-content"><p>In the simplest terms, using a VPN (which stands for "virtual private network") lets you hide who you really are and where you really are while using the internet from everyone except the VPN. In less simple terms, a VPN is a service that sends your traffic through an encrypted connection to a remote server maintained by the VPN provider before it's dispatched to the public internet. The encryption part makes it so your traffic is unreadable to third parties like your ISP and Google; routing that traffic through a remote server then gives you a different IP address, which makes it look like you're browsing from somewhere you aren't actually located IRL.</p><p>Using a VPN is often likened to driving around in a rental car with tinted windows and a license plate that doesn't match your home state, or arriving at a location via secret trapdoor and wearing a mask while you go about your day. </p></div> </div> <div x-data="{drawerOpen: false}" class="pt-4"> <hr class="w-full border border-gray-100"> <button @click="drawerOpen = !drawerOpen" class="flex mt-4 w-full"> <h3 class="text-xl font-bold text-left grow">What are the disadvantages of using a VPN?</h3> <div> <svg x-show="drawerOpen" class="inline-block w-6 h-6"><use href="/images/icons/spritemap.svg#sprite-chevron-down"></use></svg> <svg x-show="!drawerOpen" class="inline-block w-6 h-6"><use href="/images/icons/spritemap.svg#sprite-chevron-right"></use></svg> </div> </button> <div x-show="drawerOpen" class="font-serif editor-content"><p>There are a few notable downsides to using a VPN, besides the obvious "it costs money" thing, one being the VPN's affect on your browsing speed. It will virtually always be slower than your normal, unprotected connection. </p><p>Another issue is that sites may restrict your access to their content if they detect VPN usage. Some maintain blacklists of IP addresses that are known to belong to VPNs, including major streaming sites like <a href="https://www.techradar.com/vpn/how-does-netflix-detect-and-block-vpn-use" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">Netflix</a>. If your IP address is frequently associated with multiple users, that's usually what gives it away.</p><p>Finally, there's always the risk that a VPN provider is shadily collecting and selling your personal information (see below) — hence the importance of picking one that's transparent and trustworthy.</p></div> </div> <div x-data="{drawerOpen: false}" class="pt-4"> <hr class="w-full border border-gray-100"> <button @click="drawerOpen = !drawerOpen" class="flex mt-4 w-full"> <h3 class="text-xl font-bold text-left grow">Are free VPNs safe to use?</h3> <div> <svg x-show="drawerOpen" class="inline-block w-6 h-6"><use href="/images/icons/spritemap.svg#sprite-chevron-down"></use></svg> <svg x-show="!drawerOpen" class="inline-block w-6 h-6"><use href="/images/icons/spritemap.svg#sprite-chevron-right"></use></svg> </div> </button> <div x-show="drawerOpen" class="font-serif editor-content"><p>The answer is a little nuanced. VPNs that are completely free outright are generally not safe to use, as free VPN providers have been known to secretly log and sell user data, bundle their apps with malware, and/or maintain poor security practices. (You know the saying about free lunch.) However, we do stand by certain premium providers' free <em>tiers </em>or <em>trials</em> that are protected by the same vetted policies as their paid counterparts; these are safe to use. This includes TunnelBear Free and CyberGhost VPN's <a href="https://zdcs.link/G1N3E?pageview_type=Standard&template=roundup&module=content_body&element=offer&item=text-link&element_label=free%20trial&object_type=roundup&object_uuid=07rKRgEqv2jP6cUP3XA3tfv&short_url=G1N3E&u=https%3A%2F%2Fmashable.com%2Froundup%2Fbest-vpns" rel="sponsored" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">free trial</a> of up to seven days.</p><p>It bears mentioning that free versions of premium VPNs tend to be limited in terms of their server selections, browsing data allotments, available features, and abilities to unblock streaming sites, so they're best for situational or occasional use. Those who want a dependable, everyday VPN should opt for a paid subscription.</p></div> </div> <div x-data="{drawerOpen: false}" class="pt-4"> <hr class="w-full border border-gray-100"> <button @click="drawerOpen = !drawerOpen" class="flex mt-4 w-full"> <h3 class="text-xl font-bold text-left grow">If your laptop has a VPN, is your phone also protected?</h3> <div> <svg x-show="drawerOpen" class="inline-block w-6 h-6"><use href="/images/icons/spritemap.svg#sprite-chevron-down"></use></svg> <svg x-show="!drawerOpen" class="inline-block w-6 h-6"><use href="/images/icons/spritemap.svg#sprite-chevron-right"></use></svg> </div> </button> <div x-show="drawerOpen" class="font-serif editor-content"><p>VPNs maintain separate apps for separate platforms, so no — you'll need to install your VPN on every individual device you want secured. Most VPN providers offer support for at least five simultaneous connections, for what it's worth. (If you have a bunch of devices that need protecting or live in a larger household, look for a provider that offers unlimited simultaneous connections — TunnelBear, for instance.)</p></div> </div> <div x-data="{drawerOpen: false}" class="pt-4"> <hr class="w-full border border-gray-100"> <button @click="drawerOpen = !drawerOpen" class="flex mt-4 w-full"> <h3 class="text-xl font-bold text-left grow">Can you use Incognito mode instead of a VPN?</h3> <div> <svg x-show="drawerOpen" class="inline-block w-6 h-6"><use href="/images/icons/spritemap.svg#sprite-chevron-down"></use></svg> <svg x-show="!drawerOpen" class="inline-block w-6 h-6"><use href="/images/icons/spritemap.svg#sprite-chevron-right"></use></svg> </div> </button> <div x-show="drawerOpen" class="font-serif editor-content"><p>Your browser's Incognito/private mode only gets you so far — it'll clear your history, searches, <a href="https://mashable.com/article/google-will-phase-out-cookies-in-chrome" target="_self" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body">cookies</a>, and login deets, preventing other users of the same device from seeing what you've been up to, but it <em>won't</em> hide and secure your connection from your ISP and other prying eyes. Incognito mode is not a substitute for a VPN.</p></div> </div> <div x-data="{drawerOpen: false}" class="pt-4"> <hr class="w-full border border-gray-100"> <button @click="drawerOpen = !drawerOpen" class="flex mt-4 w-full"> <h3 class="text-xl font-bold text-left grow">Are VPNs legal?</h3> <div> <svg x-show="drawerOpen" class="inline-block w-6 h-6"><use href="/images/icons/spritemap.svg#sprite-chevron-down"></use></svg> <svg x-show="!drawerOpen" class="inline-block w-6 h-6"><use href="/images/icons/spritemap.svg#sprite-chevron-right"></use></svg> </div> </button> <div x-show="drawerOpen" class="font-serif editor-content"><p>Aside from the few countries that have restricted or outright banned them (including Belarus, China, Iran, Iraq, North Korea, Oman, Russia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, and the United Arab Emirates), VPNs are perfectly legal in most of the world. But keep in mind that illegal activities like torrenting copyrighted material, buying prohibited goods, and hacking are still illegal even with a VPN. Let's not get too brazen, here.</p><p>Along those same lines, using a VPN to unblock streaming services from a country where it's not available isn't technically against the law, but it <em>is</em> a violation of the company's terms of use — i.e., you may get slapped with a warning, IP ban, or error message if caught.</p></div> </div> </div> </section> </div> <section class="mx-auto mt-12 max-w-3xl border-t border-gray-200 border-solid"> <div class="py-8 w-full"> <div class="flex flex-col items-center pb-8 border-b border-gray-200 md:flex-row md:space-x-8"> <div class="flex flex-col justify-center items-center space-y-4 text-center md:flex-row md:justify-start md:space-y-0 md:space-x-6 md:text-left"> <img class="w-24 h-24 rounded-full border border-gray-200" src="https://helios-i.mashable.com/imagery/defaults/fallback-thumbnail.fill.size_100x100.1.png" alt="Mashable Image" width="100" height="100" loading="lazy" > <div class="flex flex-col space-y-2"> <div class="w-full font-bold header-200">Haley Henschel</div> <div class="w-full text-xl font-bold">Senior Shopping Reporter</div> </div> </div> <div class="flex flex-row justify-center pt-4 mt-8 w-full border-t border-gray-200 md:justify-start md:pt-0 md:pl-4 md:mt-0 md:w-auto md:border-t-0 md:border-l md:border-solid space-x4" style="height:75px;align-items:center;"> <a href="https://twitter.com/haleyhenschel" class="px-3 hover:text-primary-400" target="_blank" rel="noopener" title="(opens in a new window)"> <svg class="inline-block w-5 h-5 fill-current md:h-4"><use href="/images/icons/spritemap.svg#sprite-twitter-brands"></use></svg> </a> <a href="www.linkedin.com/in/haley-henschel-27b28a80" class="px-3 hover:text-primary-400" target="_blank" rel="noopener" title="(opens in a new window)"> <svg class="inline-block w-5 h-5 fill-current md:h-4"><use href="/images/icons/spritemap.svg#sprite-linkedin-brands"></use></svg> </a> </div> </div> <div class="mx-0 max-w-3xl font-serif editor-content"> <p>Haley Henschel is a Chicago-based Senior Shopping Reporter at Mashable who reviews and finds deals on popular tech, from laptops to gaming consoles and VPNs. She has years of experience covering shopping holidays and can tell you what’s actually worth buying on Black Friday and Amazon Prime Day. Her work has also explored the driving forces behind digital trends within the shopping sphere, from <a href="https://mashable.com/roundup/best-dupes" target="_self" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body">dupes</a> to <a href="https://mashable.com/article/12-foot-home-depot-skeleton" target="_self" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body">12-foot skeletons</a>.</p><p>Haley received a B.A. in Journalism from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and honed her sifting and winnowing skills at <em>The Daily Cardinal</em>. She previously covered politics for <em>The Milwaukee Journal</em> Sentinel, investigated exotic pet ownership for <em>Wisconsin Watch</em>, and blogged for some of your favorite reality stars.</p><p>In her free time, Haley enjoys playing video games, drawing, taking walks on Lake Michigan, and spending time with her parrot (Melon) and dog (Pierogi). She really, really wants to get back into horseback riding. You can follow her on X at <a href="https://twitter.com/haleyhenschel" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)">@haleyhenschel</a> or reach her via email at <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#2a424b464f5304424f445949424f466a474b59424b48464f04494547" target="_blank" data-ga-click="1" data-ga-label="$text" data-ga-item="text-link" data-ga-module="content_body" title="(opens in a new window)"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="294148454c5007414c475a4a414c456944485a41484b454c074a4644">[email protected]</span></a>.</p> </div> </div> </section> <div class="mx-auto max-w-3xl" data-spotim-module="conversation" data-spot-id="sp_oHE136vk" data-post-id="675" data-post-url="/roundup/best-vpns" data-article-tags="VPN, Tech"> </div> <div class="mx-auto max-w-3xl" data-spotim-module="pitc" data-spot-id="sp_oHE136vk" data-article-tags="VPN, Tech"></div> </section> <aside style="width:300px;" class="hidden flex-none 2xl:block" data-ga-module="content_rail"> <div class="sticky top-0 pt-16 mt-8"> <div data-pogo="sidebar"></div> </div> </aside> </main> <div class="px-4 mx-auto w-full 2xl:px-0 full-width"> <div data-pogo="nativespotlight"></div> </div> <div class="justify-between items-stretch px-4 mx-auto lg:flex max-w-8xl"> <section class="flex-grow 2xl:pr-4" data-ga-module="content_body"> <section class="mx-auto max-w-3xl"> <section class="mx-auto max-w-8xl"> <hr class="my-8 mx-auto border border-gray-100 md:my-12"> <div class="mt-12 font-bold header-200 text-primary-400 md:!leading-6">Recommended For You</div> <div class="justify-center mt-8 w-full" data-module="content-list" data-ga-module="recommendation-recirc" data-ga-element="content-stripe" data-ga-action="content-stripe"> <div class="w-full" data-ga-position="1" > <div class="flex flex-row mx-auto mt-4 max-w-4xl font-sans md:flex-nowrap md:justify-around md:mx-0 md:mt-8"> <div class="flex flex-col flex-wrap mr-4 w-3/4 text-left md:mt-0 xl:relative items-around"> <a class="block text-lg font-semibold leading-6 md:text-xl text-primary-400 header-500" data-ga-click data-ga-item="title" data-ga-label="$text" href="/article/the-best-windows-laptop-2024-so-far"> I've tested over 59 laptops: this is the best laptop of 2024</a> <div class="hidden text-base md:block md:mt-1 md:leading-tight text-primary-400 font-regular">You can trust me on this one.</div> <div class="flex flex-row mt-3 font-serif italic md:justify-start"> <time class="leading-tight font-regular subtitle-1" datetime="Mon, 18 Nov 2024 19:48:56 +0000"> 11/18/2024 </time> <div class="pl-3 leading-tight md:px-4 font-regular subtitle-1"> By <a href="/author/kim-gedeon">Kimberly Gedeon</a> </div> </div> </div> <a class="block w-1/4" data-ga-click data-ga-item="image" data-ga-label="I've tested over 59 laptops: this is the best laptop of 2024" href="/article/the-best-windows-laptop-2024-so-far"> <div class="hidden border border-gray-100 md:block"> <img class="w-full" src="https://helios-i.mashable.com/imagery/articles/05djrP5PjtVB7CcMtvrTOAP/hero-image.fill.size_220x133.v1723100793.jpg" alt="Microsoft Surface Laptop 7" width="220" height="133" loading="lazy" > </div> <div class="border border-gray-100 md:hidden"> <img class="w-full" src="https://helios-i.mashable.com/imagery/articles/05djrP5PjtVB7CcMtvrTOAP/hero-image.fill.size_220x220.v1723100793.jpg" alt="Microsoft Surface Laptop 7" width="220" height="220" loading="lazy" > </div> </a> </div> </div> <hr class="my-6 mx-auto w-3/4 border border-gray-100 md:hidden md:my-8"> <div class="w-full" data-ga-position="2" > <div class="flex flex-row mx-auto mt-4 max-w-4xl font-sans md:flex-nowrap md:justify-around md:mx-0 md:mt-8"> <div class="flex flex-col flex-wrap mr-4 w-3/4 text-left md:mt-0 xl:relative items-around"> <a class="block text-lg font-semibold leading-6 md:text-xl text-primary-400 header-500" data-ga-click data-ga-item="title" data-ga-label="$text" href="/article/apple-watch-series-9-vs-watch-se"> Apple Watch Series 9 vs. SE 2: I tested both for 13 days</a> <div class="hidden text-base md:block md:mt-1 md:leading-tight text-primary-400 font-regular">I tested both the Series 9 and SE 2. 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12/31/2024 </time> <div class="pl-3 leading-tight md:px-4 font-regular subtitle-1"> By <a href="/author/haleyhenschel">Haley Henschel</a> </div> </div> </div> <a class="block w-1/4" data-ga-click data-ga-item="image" data-ga-label="The best cheap laptops: 6 models under $1,000 that we tested and approved" href="/roundup/best-cheap-laptops-dec-2024"> <div class="hidden border border-gray-100 md:block"> <img class="w-full" src="https://helios-i.mashable.com/imagery/roundups/07wz4q8lPZxZWucNlnVSyG4/hero-image.fill.size_220x133.v1734627287.png" alt="the acer chromebook plus 516 ge on an office desk" width="220" height="133" loading="lazy" > </div> <div class="border border-gray-100 md:hidden"> <img class="w-full" src="https://helios-i.mashable.com/imagery/roundups/07wz4q8lPZxZWucNlnVSyG4/hero-image.fill.size_220x220.v1734627287.png" alt="the acer chromebook plus 516 ge on an office desk" width="220" height="220" loading="lazy" > </div> </a> </div> </div> <hr class="my-6 mx-auto w-3/4 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