10 Best VPN Services of 2023 (Compared & Tested)

A VPN, short for Virtual Private Network, enables you to establish a secure network connection while using public networks. By encrypting your internet traffic and concealing your online identity, VPNs enhance your privacy and protect against data theft. The encryption process occurs in real-time, making it challenging for third parties to monitor your online activities. Here, we’ve prepared a list of the 10 best VPN Services after going through a speed test, features, device compatibility, reliability, server network, etc.

In 2023, utilizing a top VPN service presents numerous compelling advantages. Primarily, it delivers robust privacy protection by encrypting internet traffic, safeguarding personal information, browsing habits, and communications against unauthorized monitoring or access. As concerns regarding data breaches and invasive surveillance continue to grow, relying on a dependable VPN service becomes crucial for preserving online activities.

Moreover, with the rise of remote work and remote access to company networks, the leading VPN services in 2023 address this emerging need by providing secure remote access to private networks. This functionality enables employees to connect to internal resources while ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of data. By utilizing a trusted best VPN router, businesses can maintain a secure and productive remote work environment.

Overall, the utilization of a top VPN service in 2023 offers peace of mind, protecting privacy and facilitating secure remote access. By encrypting internet traffic and establishing secure connections, these services play a vital role in safeguarding sensitive information and ensuring the seamless flow of data for individuals and businesses alike.

Significance of VPN

In today’s digital landscape, VPN services are essential tools that fulfill critical roles in safeguarding privacy, enhancing security, promoting online freedom, and facilitating secure network access. These factors make VPNs indispensable for individuals, businesses, and organizations alike.

• Privacy Protection: Privacy protection is a fundamental aspect of VPNs. By encrypting your internet traffic, VPNs create a barrier that makes it challenging for unauthorized individuals, government agencies, or cybercriminals to intercept or monitor your online activities. This encryption ensures the security of your personal information, browsing habits, and communication, safeguarding them from being tracked or accessed without your consent.

• Enhanced Security: VPNs offer an extra layer of security, particularly when utilizing public Wi-Fi networks. Through the establishment of a secure and encrypted connection, VPNs protect your data from potential risks like hacking, identity theft, and data breaches. By effectively safeguarding your information, VPNs ensure the integrity and confidentiality of your data, even when connected to potentially insecure networks.

• Safe File Sharing: The utilization of VPN encryption provides a secure environment for file sharing, offering protection to shared files and sensitive information during transit. This robust encryption minimizes the risk of data leakage and significantly enhances overall data security. By safeguarding files from unauthorized access, VPNs contribute to maintaining the confidentiality and integrity of shared information throughout the file-sharing process.

Things to Consider When Choosing VPN Service

While choosing the best VPN services, consider the following points:

• Free VPNs: Free VPN services may come with hidden costs. Companies need to cover their expenses, and some free VPNs do this through ads or by selling user data. Free VPNs may also offer slower connection speeds and limited features.

• Vendor Security Experience: Consider the experience and background of the VPN provider in cybersecurity. Transparency and a strong cybersecurity track record are important factors when selecting a VPN provider.

• Independent Reviews: Not all VPN reviews are independent, as some may be sponsored or biased. Be critical when evaluating reviews and comparisons and consider trusted and unbiased sources.

• Privacy Policy: Check the VPN provider’s privacy policy to understand their data handling practices. While most VPNs claim to keep no logs, some data may still be stored. Ensure that the provider’s claims align with your privacy requirements.
• Server Network: Consider the size and control of a VPN provider’s server network. Having a large number of servers worldwide may indicate less control and potential security risks. Prioritize server locations that are important to you instead of solely focusing on the number of servers.

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Atlas VPN

Atlas VPN is a VPN (Virtual Private Network) service that aims to provide users with enhanced privacy, security, and unrestricted internet access. It utilizes strong encryption protocols, including AES-256-bit encryption, to secure user data and ensure secure connections. This best VPN for torrenting aims to protect users’ privacy by providing a no-logs policy, meaning it does not collect or store any user activity logs or personally identifiable information.

Speed

Features

• Secure VPN Encryption: Atlas VPN uses advanced encryption protocols to secure your internet traffic, protecting your data from potential threats and ensuring your online privacy.
• No-Logs Policy: Atlas VPN has a strict no-logs policy, meaning they do not collect or store any logs of your online activities, enhancing your privacy and anonymity.
• Global Server Network: Atlas VPN offers a global network of servers in multiple countries, allowing you to bypass geo-restrictions and access content from different regions.
• Fast and Stable Connections: Atlas VPN provides fast and reliable connections, ensuring smooth browsing, streaming, and downloading experiences.
• Ad Blocking: Atlas VPN includes an ad-blocking feature that blocks unwanted advertisements, improving your browsing experience and reducing distractions.

Price

• 1 Month: For a monthly subscription, the cost is $11.99 per month in USD.

• 3 Years + 3 Months Extra: If you choose the 3-year plan, you can enjoy an additional 3 months of service. The cost for this plan is $1.83 per month in USD, providing long-term savings.

• 1 Year: With the 1-year plan, you pay $4.08 per month in USD. This plan is a great option for users who want a mid-length commitment.

Windscribe

Windscribe is the best free VPN for Firestick that focuses on providing users with privacy, security, and versatile features. Windscribe offers several features designed to protect users’ online activities and data. This best free VPN for Windows also implements a firewall feature, called “The Firewall,” which acts as a kill switch and blocks all internet traffic if the VPN connection drops, preventing any potential data leaks.

Speed

Features

• No-Logs Policy: Windscribe has a strict no-logs policy, meaning it does not collect or store any user activity logs, ensuring your online activities remain private and anonymous.
• R.O.B.E.R.T.: Windscribe includes an ad and malware-blocking feature called R.O.B.E.R.T, which helps to enhance browsing security and block unwanted advertisements.
• Firewall (Kill Switch): Windscribe has a built-in firewall feature, also known as a kill switch, that blocks all internet traffic if the VPN connection is interrupted, preventing any unencrypted data from being exposed.
• Split Tunneling: Windscribe possess a split tunneling feature, allowing users to choose which apps or websites should be routed through the VPN tunnel and which ones should have direct internet access.

Price

• Free Plan: The free plan comes at no cost and provides 10GB of monthly data when you verify your email address. It’s a great option for users with light VPN usage.

• Build a Plan: Windscribe’s “Build a Plan” allows you to customize your VPN subscription starting at a minimum of $3 per month. You have the flexibility to select specific locations and features based on your preferences, tailoring the plan to your needs.

• Pro Plan: The Pro plan is available at $9 per month with a monthly subscription or at $5.75 per month with an annual subscription (billed annually). With the Pro plan, you enjoy unlimited data usage, enabling unrestricted browsing, streaming, and downloading.

• ScribeForce: Geared towards businesses or organizations, the ScribeForce plan costs $3 per user, with a minimum requirement of 5 users. Each user in the ScribeForce plan receives unlimited data, making it suitable for teams needing VPN services for multiple users.

NordVPN

When it comes to selecting a VPN for gaming, there are a few factors to consider, including speed, server locations, security, and reliability. NordVPN is a well-regarded VPN service that offers a large server network and robust security features. It provides fast and stable connections, making it suitable for gaming. NordVPN’s servers are spread across many locations, allowing users to access gaming servers in different regions. 

NordVPN provides increased privacy and security, using a VPN does not make you completely anonymous online. It’s still essential to exercise caution and follow best practices for internet security.

Speed Test

Features

• Large server network: NordVPN offers one of the largest server networks among VPN services, with over 5,500 servers available across 59 nations. This extensive coverage allows users to access servers from various locations worldwide.
• Double VPN option: NordVPN provides a double VPN feature, which enhances privacy and security by routing user traffic through two distinct servers in different places. This double-encryption process adds an extra layer of protection to user data.
• CyberSec function: NordVPN includes the CyberSec feature, which blocks malicious websites and protects user devices from malware, trackers, and intrusive advertisements. This feature helps safeguard online browsing and enhances overall security.
• Restricted No-logging system: NordVPN follows a rigorous no-logging policy, meaning it does not allows collecting any user activity logs or personal data. This commitment to privacy ensures that users’ online activities remain confidential and untraceable.

Pricing

• Monthly Plan: The monthly plan for NordVPN involves a shorter commitment, but it comes with a higher cost. Currently, the monthly subscription is priced at approximately $13 to $15 per month, depending on the specific plan you choose.

• 1-Year Plan: Opting for the 1-year plan with NordVPN is a more cost-effective choice, as it is currently priced at approximately $5 to $7 per month. By selecting this plan, you make a single payment for the entire year, eliminating the need to transfer money every month. This provides convenience and potentially reduces overall expenses.

• 2-Year Plan: The 2-year plan offered by NordVPN is the most cost-effective option. With this plan, users benefit from the lowest monthly price, ranging from approximately $3 to $6 per month. Similar to the other plans, you only need to make a single payment, and in return, you receive affordable and high-quality protection for two years. It provides a long-term solution for users seeking economical and top-notch VPN services.

PureVPN

PureVPN is a virtual private network (VPN) service that aims to provide secure and private internet browsing for its users. Like other VPN providers, PureVPN offers various features to enhance online security and privacy. PureVPN is a commercial VPN service possessed by GZ Systems Ltd. Founded in 2007, the company lies in the British Virgin Islands. PureVPN enables users to choose from four categories: Stream, Freedom, Internet Security, and File Sharing.

Speed Test

Features

• Server Network: PureVPN has a large network of servers spread across multiple countries. This extensive server infrastructure allows users to choose from a wide range of server locations, enabling them to bypass geo-restrictions and access content from different regions.
• Security Features: PureVPN uses strong encryption protocols, such as AES-256-bit encryption, to protect user data and ensure secure connections. It also offers features like a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and split tunneling to enhance security and privacy.
• Privacy Policy: PureVPN claims to have a strict no-logs policy, meaning it does not keep records of users’ online activities. However, it’s always recommended to review the specific details of a VPN provider’s privacy policy to fully understand how they handle user data.
• Simultaneous Connections: PureVPN allows users to connect multiple devices simultaneously with a single account. This can be convenient for individuals who want to secure multiple devices or share the VPN service with family members.

Pricing

• Monthly Plan: The monthly plan typically costs around $10 to $12 per month. This plan offers the flexibility of a month-to-month subscription but is generally the most expensive option.

• Yearly Plan: The yearly plan is often more cost-effective, and it is usually priced at approximately $5 to $8 per month. By committing to a year-long subscription, users can enjoy a lower monthly rate.

• Multi-Year Plans: PureVPN occasionally offers longer-term plans for extended durations, such as 2-year or 3-year plans. These plans generally provide the lowest monthly price, often ranging from around $2 to $5 per month.

ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is the best VPN for gaming known for its commitment to privacy, security, and high performance. With a vast network of servers spanning 160 locations in 94 countries, ExpressVPN provides users with access to unrestricted internet content while ensuring fast and reliable connections. It employs state-of-the-art encryption technology and offers additional features like a kill switch, split tunneling, and DNS leak protection to enhance security further. With a strict no-logs policy, ExpressVPN prioritizes user privacy by refraining from collecting any logs of online activity. The user-friendly interface and compatibility with various devices and operating systems make ExpressVPN accessible to a wide range of users. 

Speed Test

Features

• Kill Switch: ExpressVPN includes a kill switch feature that acts as an added layer of protection. In the event of a connection drop or interruption with the VPN, the kill switch automatically shuts down all windows and tabs on the web, ensuring that users remain protected at all times. This feature is commonly found in many VPNs, and ExpressVPN’s implementation of it provides users with an additional safeguard for their online privacy and security.
• Rotating IP Addresses: One notable aspect of ExpressVPN is that it assigns users a new IP address each time they log onto the VPN. This constant rotation of IP addresses makes it challenging for anyone to trace or track users’ online activities
• Netflix & Torrenting Access: ExpressVPN’s subscriptions provide the ability to stream movies and TV shows on Netflix, as well as download torrent files. This versatility allows you to keep your laptop filled with an extensive collection of shows for binge-watching. Notably, ExpressVPN stands out because it enables access to Netflix on all of its servers. Some VPN providers may have their IP addresses blocked by Netflix, limiting access to certain regions or servers. However, with ExpressVPN, you could enjoy Netflix content on any server connected, ensuring unrestricted streaming possibilities.4
• Encryption: ExpressVPN’s subscriptions offer the convenience of streaming movies and TV shows on Netflix, along with the ability to download torrent files. This flexibility allows to curate an extensive collection of shows for uninterrupted binge-watching. What sets ExpressVPN apart is its unique advantage of providing access to Netflix on all of its servers. 

Pricing

ExpressVPN offers three different pricing plans to cater to different user preferences and durations:

• 6-Months Plan: The 2-year plan is priced at $9.99 per month, offering the most cost-effective option for a long-term commitment. Users can enjoy the benefits of ExpressVPN at a significantly discounted rate by opting for this plan.

• 1-Year Plan: The 1-year plan is priced at $8.32 per month. This plan provides users with a slightly shorter commitment period while still offering a reasonable monthly price.

• 1-Month Plan: The 1-month plan is available at $12.95 per month, offering the highest flexibility without any long-term commitment. Although this plan has a higher monthly price, it allows users to use ExpressVPN on a month-to-month basis.

SurfShark

Surfshark is a VPN (virtual private network) service that prioritizes security, privacy, and ease of use. With its strong encryption protocols, including AES-256-bit encryption, Surfshark ensures the protection of user data and online activities from potential threats. The service boasts a global network of servers in over 65 countries, allowing users to bypass geo-restrictions and access content from around the world. Surfshark offers user-friendly apps and interfaces across various devices and operating systems, making it accessible to users of all technical backgrounds.

Speed Test

Features

• Security and Privacy: Surfshark uses strong encryption protocols, including AES-256-bit encryption, to protect user data from potential threats. It also offers features like a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and multi-hop connections for enhanced security and privacy.
• Server Network: Surfshark has a global server network with servers located in over 65 countries. This extensive coverage allows users to bypass geo-restrictions and access content from different regions around the world.
• Unlimited Device Connections: One notable feature of Surfshark is its policy of allowing unlimited device connections under a single subscription. This means that users can protect all their devices simultaneously without limitations.
• No-Logs Policy: Surfshark maintains a strict no-logs policy, meaning it neither collects any stored any user activity logs or personal information. This commitment to privacy ensures that users’ online activities remain private and anonymous.
• MultiHop and Whitelister: Surfshark offers a MultiHop feature that routes user traffic through multiple servers for added security. Additionally, its Whitelister feature allows users to specify certain apps or websites to bypass the VPN connection if desired.

Price

• 24-Month Plan: The 24-month plan is priced at $2.21 per month, making it the most cost-effective option for long-term commitment. Users can enjoy Surfshark’s features and benefits at a significantly discounted rate with this plan.

• 6-Month Plan: The 6-month plan is available at $6.49 per month, offering users a shorter commitment period while still maintaining a reasonable monthly price. This plan provides flexibility for users who prefer a mid-term subscription.

• 1-Month Plan: The 1-month plan is priced at $12.95 per month, offering users the highest level of flexibility without any long-term commitment. While this plan has a higher monthly cost, it allows users to use Surfshark on a month-to-month basis.

Private Internet Access: 

Private Internet Access (PIA) is a VPN (virtual private network) service that emphasizes privacy, security, and user-friendly functionality. PIA offers a range of features to protect users’ online activities and sensitive information. With a large network of servers spread across various locations globally, PIA allows users to bypass geo-restrictions, access region-specific content, and maintain fast and reliable connections. The service utilizes strong encryption protocols to safeguard data, including AES-256-bit encryption.

Speed

Features

• Strong Encryption: PIA utilizes industry-standard encryption protocols, including AES-256-bit encryption, to protect user data and ensure secure connections. This robust encryption helps safeguard sensitive information from potential threats.
• Large Server Network: PIA operates a vast network of servers in various locations worldwide. This extensive server infrastructure allows users to choose from a wide range of server locations, enabling them to bypass geo-restrictions and access content from different regions.
• No-Logs Policy: PIA has a strict no-logs policy, meaning it does not collect or retain any user activity logs, connection logs, or personally identifiable information. This commitment to privacy ensures that users’ online activities remain private and anonymous.
• Kill Switch: PIA includes a kill switch feature that disengages the user’s internet connection if the VPN connection drops. This prevents any unprotected data from being exposed in the event of a VPN disconnection.
• Split Tunneling: PIA provides the option of split tunneling, allowing users to choose which traffic is routed through the VPN and which traffic bypasses the VPN. This feature offers more flexibility and control over internet traffic routing.

Price

• One-Month Plan: The monthly subscription for Private Internet Access is priced at $11.99 per month, which represents the highest price among the available subscription options. However, this plan offers flexibility, allowing users to adjust their VPN usage based on their needs and preferences.

• Six-Month Plan: The six-month subscription plan for Private Internet Access is available for $45 for the entire duration. When you break down the cost, it comes to approximately $7.50 per month. This represents a significant price drop compared to the monthly plan priced at $11.99 per month.

• Three Years Plan: The three-year plan offered by Private Internet Access is available for $79 for the entire duration. This equates to approximately $2.19 per month, making it the most affordable price point that Private Internet Access can provide. With the three-year plan, users can enjoy the best value for their Private Internet Access subscription.

IPVanish

IPVanish is a VPN service that focuses on providing users with enhanced security, privacy, and online anonymity. The service utilizes strong encryption protocols, including AES-256-bit encryption, to safeguard user data and ensure secure connections. IPVanish offers a range of features to protect users’ online activities and data. IPVanish has a strong reputation for security and privacy, individual experiences may vary.

Speed

Features

• Anonymous Browsing: IPVanish ensures complete anonymity while browsing the internet due to its strict no-logs policy. By never logging internet traffic or VPN connections, IPVanish guarantees that users can browse the internet anonymously. The commitment to privacy and security offered by IPVanish provides users with peace of mind and enhanced online anonymity.
• DNS Protection Measures: IPVanish uses its private DNS servers to resolve web addresses to their respective IP addresses. The DNS servers are only accessible when connected to its VPN ensuring that its DNS is private and secure.
• Kill Switch: IPVanish incorporates a kill switch feature that automatically disconnects your internet connection if the VPN connection is interrupted for any reason. This proactive measure helps safeguard your anonymity and privacy by ensuring that your internet activity is solely routed through the VPN.
• Split Tunneling: IPVanish offers a split tunneling feature that allows users to select specific apps or programs to route through the VPN while allowing others to connect directly to the internet. This feature provides users with greater control over their internet traffic, enabling them to choose which traffic receives the protection of the VPN.

Price

• Monthly: The monthly plan is available at $11.99 per month. This plan provides users with the flexibility of a month-to-month subscription.

• Quarterly: The quarterly plan is priced at $29.99 for regular purchases or $32.99 for Apple in-app purchases, covering 3 months.

• Yearly: The yearly plan is available at $89.99 per year, providing users with a discounted rate compared to the monthly and quarterly plans. This plan offers long-term affordability and convenience.

CyberGhost

CyberGhost is the best cheap VPN service known for its user-friendly interface and a strong emphasis on privacy and security. It offers a wide range of features designed to protect users’ online activities and data and operates a large network of servers in over 90 countries, allowing users to bypass geo-restrictions and access content from different regions. With strong encryption protocols, including AES-256-bit encryption, CyberGhost ensures that user data remains secure and private.

Speed

Features

• Kill Switch: CyberGhost’s automatic kill switch disconnects you from the internet when the VPN connection drops, protecting your data and location from being exposed. This feature is available on Windows, macOS, and iOS devices.
• Split Tunneling: With split tunneling, users can choose which apps need to access the internet through the VPN and which can use the local IP address. By default, all traffic is routed through the VPN unless modified with split tunneling.
• Leak Protection: CyberGhost VPN offers a leak monitor feature that allows users to check if their registered email address has been compromised. This helps prevent potential data breaches and prompts users to change their login passwords if necessary.
• Antivirus: CyberGhost VPN partners with Intego to provide antivirus protection as part of its security suite. Users can opt for additional antivirus services at an extra cost to safeguard against malware, trojans, spyware, adware, and ransomware.

Price

• One-month plan: It costs around $12.99 and has the highest average monthly cost with the flexibility to stop when don’t need it.

• Six-month plan: This plan requires paying $41.94, which breaks down to an average of $6.99 per month.

• Two-year plan: Th two-year plan has the lowest average monthly;y cost of just $2.37 per month.

VyprVPN

VyprVPN is the best VPN android VPN service known for its strong emphasis on privacy, security, and advanced features. It offers a variety of features to protect users’ online privacy and security. It utilizes robust encryption protocols, including AES-256-bit encryption, to secure user data and ensure secure connections. The service also implements its proprietary Chameleon™ protocol, designed to bypass VPN blocking and censorship, allowing users to access restricted content and maintain privacy even in restrictive environments.

Speed

Features

• Chameleon Protocol: VyprVPN’s proprietary Chameleon protocol is designed to defeat VPN blocking and censorship. It encrypts metadata, making it difficult for third parties to detect and block VPN traffic, allowing users to bypass restrictions and access the internet freely.
• Multiple Protocols: VyprVPN supports multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, WireGuard, and Chameleon. Users can choose the protocol that best suits their needs in terms of speed, security, and accessibility.
• Kill Switch: VyprVPN includes a kill switch feature that automatically blocks internet traffic if the VPN connection is interrupted, averting any unencrypted data from getting exposed.

Price

• VyprVPN 1 month: This plan costs $12.95 for a single month of service.

• VyprVPN 18 months: With this plan, you pay $3.75 per month, making it a total of $67.50 for the 18-month duration.

• VyprVPN 36 months: The 36-month plan is priced at $2.50 per month, resulting in a total cost of $90 for the entire 36-month period.

FAQs – Best VPN Services of 2023

What is the best VPN in 2023?

As per our expert rating, we have chosen Private Internet Access (PIA) as the top VPN of 2023. PIA offers affordable pricing starting at just INR 3,010 per year, allowing users to access servers in 84 countries. It also supports unlimited simultaneous connections across multiple devices.

How do I connect to a VPN?

Connecting to a VPN can vary depending on the device and operating system you are using. Typically, you would need to download the VPN’s application or software, input your username and password, and choose a server to connect to. For more specific instructions, it is recommended to visit the VPN provider’s website or reach out to their customer service for assistance.

What’s the difference between a proxy and a VPN?

Both a proxy server and a VPN can mask your IP address, but there is a key distinction between them. While a proxy server can hide your IP, it does not provide encryption for your internet data. On the other hand, a VPN not only masks your IP address but also encrypts your internet data, offering an additional layer of security and privacy.

Can I change my IP address without a VPN?

Indeed, it is possible to change your IP address without relying on a VPN. There are alternative methods to consider, such as restarting your router, utilizing a proxy server, connecting to a mobile network, or utilizing the Tor network. However, it is important to note that these approaches may not offer the same degree of privacy and security as a VPN. Additionally, they can potentially lead to slower and less reliable internet connections.

What is meant by split tunneling?

The split tunneling feature enables users to choose which devices or applications require VPN protection and which ones do not. It allows for selective routing of internet traffic, giving users more control over their VPN usage and ensuring that only specific devices or applications benefit from the VPN’s security and privacy features.

Conclusion:

VPN services offer secure and private internet connections by encrypting data and routing it through remote servers. They protect privacy, mask IP addresses, and prevent tracking. VPNs allow access to geo-restricted content, ensuring freedom of browsing and streaming.