14 Best VPN Apps Compared for 2023

Finding the best VPN app can be a daunting task. With so many options, how do you decide which one is right for you? Look for an application offering speedy connection speeds, reliable data encryption, and a broad range of servers.

To help, we’ve conducted an in-depth comparison of the best VPN apps, including ExpressVPN, PureVPN, and IvacyVPN. By looking ‌at their features, prices, and overall performance, we’ll help you figure out which ones offer the most value for your money. Read on to find out which VPN is the perfect fit for you.

14 Best VPN Apps for 2023 | Ranked

Our evaluation concluded that ExpressVPN is, without a doubt, the finest VPN application available — offering maximum privacy, ease of use, security, and lightning-fast speeds. Here are the market’s best VPN apps ranked:

  1. ExpressVPN — Overall, the best VPN app in 2023, with fast connections and powerful privacy features.
  2. PureVPN — Leading provider with great features for torrenting and a zero-logs policy, as well as 6,500+ servers.
  3. IvacyVPN — Cheaper app that can handle buffer-free streaming and has great torrenting features and options for traffic prioritization.
  4. TotalAV — Two-in-one VPN and security app with full antivirus features for safe, secure, and private internet use.
  5. NordVPN — Leading provider, offering fast connections across 5,400+ servers and without bandwidth restrictions or throttling.
  6. AtlasVPN — Great service for privacy-conscious users, with advanced security features and high-speed connections.
  7. Surfshark — A leader in privacy features, with top speeds and an affordable price tag, and a great option for covering unlimited devices.
  8. PrivadoVPN — Best free VPN app, which comes with lots of premium security features, as well as ad blocking and parental controls.
  9. Private Internet Access — Top budget-friendly service that offers unlimited bandwidth and great security tools.
  10. CyberGhost VPN — Strong encryption and one of the most reliable solutions for streaming content securely and privately.
  11. IPVanish — Leading service with fast connections, split tunneling, and advanced security features on offer, plus lots of customization options.
  12. PrivateVPN — A user-friendly service that’s great for inexperienced individuals and also comes with adaptable security tools and smart stealth features.
  13. VyprVPN — Secure VPN app to bypass strict geo-restrictions and access restricted content.
  14. ProtonVPN — Top choice for data-heavy users who want both speed and top-notch security online, and with a great free option also available.

Best VPNs for Streaming, Security, and Online Anonymity | Top 14 Reviewed

Here we review each of our top VPN apps to help you determine which one is perfect for you.

1. ExpressVPN — Overall, the Best VPN app in 2023

ExpressVPN offers unbeatable speed, security, and exceptional performance via its user-friendly interface. Beyond this, its encryption protocols ensure a secure connection, while its wide range of features keeps you safe online.

expressvpn best vpn app
Cheapest Plan Free Version Money-Back Guarantee Max Devices Supported Server Count Server Locations
$6.67/Month No 30 Days 5 3,000+ 94+

ExpressVPN stands out from other VPNs thanks to its Lightway Protocol. This provides lightning-fast speeds and fewer connection drops for a seamless streaming experience – no buffering or lag.

In addition, its reliability ensures secure access to geo-restricted content anywhere in the world. Its convenient split tunneling feature allows you to route specific apps and websites through VPN servers while the rest of your network traffic remains unaffected.

This means you can stream your favorite shows on Netflix or Hulu while still being able to access local intranets with ease. On top of this, ExpressVPN masks your IP address for an extra layer of privacy which helps you remain anonymous when you’re online.

With this feature, you can access content from anywhere in the world – unblocking even the toughest restrictions with ease. So, protect your identity and unlock a whole new realm of possibilities with this popular VPN app.

Pros

  • Servers all over the world
  • Can bypass geo-restrictions
  • Fast and reliable connections

Cons

  • Can be pricey

Pricing

ExpressVPN offers plans to suit any budget, from the 1-month plan for the ultimate flexibility in canceling up to 12 months for maximum savings. With discounts available on longer commitments, there’s an ideal option for everyone.

best vpn app price

ExpressVPN is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a dependable VPN service with ultra-fast speeds and robust security protocols. Its remarkable features make it the best available option for streaming and browsing securely.

2. PureVPN — Impressive Offering for the entire family 

PureVPN is easily accessible no matter your location, with over 6,500 servers in 78 countries, and it boasts impressive, future-proof features. It has DNS and IPv6 leak protection, meaning your information won’t leak and expose your real identity. Beyond this, you can rest easy knowing it passed a zero-logging audit which confirms that the company doesn’t store your information on its servers.

best vpn apps 2023

Cheapest Plan Free Version Money-Back Guarantee Max Devices Supported Server Count Server Locations
$2.29/month No 31 Days 10 6,500+ 78+

This VPN provider allows up to 10 simultaneous connections, meaning you can share your account with the entire family, ensuring the ones closest to you are safe while browsing. It’s compatible with numerous devices, including Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, and the most popular browsers via extensions.

PureVPN allows you to stream Netflix US library without worrying about data limits and bandwidth issues since it masks bandwidth usage and prevents your ISP from throttling your connection. That means you need just one Netflix and PureVPN account, and your entire family can enjoy its favorite shows and movies.

Besides this, it features a reliable Kill Switch that automatically disconnects you from the internet if you accidentally turn your VPN off. That’s an invaluable feature if you use unsecured WiFi in bars or don’t want anyone to find your home IP.

Pros 

  • Great pricing
  • A good number of protocols
  • Futureproof 20Gbps servers

Cons 

  • Mac app lacks advanced features

Pricing

PureVPN has an outstanding 24-month subscription plan that costs as little as $2.29/month, making it a cost-effective long-term solution for families. Plus, new customers that opt for the 2-year-long plan get three additional months free of charge.

affordable vpn app

Gain access to 300,000+ unique IPs, geo-restricted content, and Netflix US at high speeds while staying safe. What’s best, you can pay for PureVPN using cryptocurrency, making it a completely anonymous VPN journey. Take advantage of its 31-day money-back guarantee and try it risk-free today.

3. IvacyVPN — Cheap Service with Great Torrenting Capability

IvacyVPN does an outstanding job protecting your privacy and keeping you safe as you browse. It can also help you access geo-restricted content such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, and other streaming services.

Thanks to its Smart Purpose Selection feature, you’ll always automatically connect to a server with the best speed and security based on its proximity and your needs. You can pick between Secure Download, Unblocking, and Streaming, and it’ll find the perfect server for you.

Ivacy VPN for Netflix

Cheapest Plan Free Version Money-Back Guarantee Max Devices Supported Server Count Server Locations
$1/month No 30 Days 10 5,700+ 100+

Selecting the Secure Download feature takes you to a torrent-friendly server that allows you to download files without bandwidth limits and with added security. The feature has a built-in DNS “blacklist” to help you avoid dangerous URLs and keep you safe while browsing or downloading content.

IvacyVPN has a capable split-tunneling feature that lets you decide which connections you want to encrypt with the VPN while other apps connect through your ISP-provided IP. That means you can turn IvacyVPN on, select Secure Download, and start torrenting files while you browse the internet using your regular internet connection.

What we like the most about IvacyVPN is the diversity of its servers, as this VPN service has them in places often ignored by its competition, including South America and Africa.

Pros

  • Unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and more
  • Feature-rich
  • Cheap VPN app

Cons 

  • Windows kill switch problems

Pricing

IvacyVPN has cheap subscription options, with its monthly plan costing less than average with VPN services. However, its real value comes with the 5-year-long plan, which costs as little as $1/month.

cheapest vpn app

Besides being a cost-effective option with its 5-year-long plan, IvacyVPN offers add-ons at lower prices than its competition. You can add port forwarding to your account for $1/month, and dedicated IPs cost as little as $1.99/month. Try it out risk-free for a month now.

4. TotalAV — Popular App for Antivirus and Ad-Blocking

TotalAV is a comprehensive internet security service that includes more than just a VPN, as it effectively combats malware, intrusive ads, third-party trackers, and more. In fact, it’s renowned for being one of the best antivirus solutions. Besides keeping you safe, it lets you watch your favorite shows and movies on Netflix US and provides a buffer-free experience.

TotalAV antivirus and VPN app

Cheapest Plan Free Version Money-Back Guarantee Max Devices Supported Server Count Server Locations
$39/year No 30 Days 5 70+ 30+

Websites you visit collect a surprising amount of your personal information via trackers to learn more about you and your interests. Total Adblock prevents even the most persistent ads and trackers from violating your privacy, and it comes as a part of TotalAV’s internet security bundle at no extra cost.

Beyond this, the TotalAV Safe Browsing VPN features above-average speeds on nearby servers and respectable speeds when connected to servers further away. In addition to being reliable speed-wise, this VPN service won’t consume a lot of resources and slow your device down, making it a lightweight solution.

Both its VPN and Password Manager uses bank-grade AES 256-bit encryption to safeguard your data. That makes it near-impossible for outside parties to access your accounts protected by Total AV’s password manager or your personal information while browsing the internet.

Pros 

  • Data breach monitoring
  • User-friendly interface
  • Provides all-around security

Cons 

  • Only one subscription is available

Pricing

TotalAV offers a single, well-priced option to its customers. You can purchase its service for just $39/per year and rest easy knowing there are multiple layers of protection around your data.

 

You’ll feel safe visiting any website with its Total Webshield, which blocks malicious URLs, and you get superb protection on up to five devices per account. Thanks to its 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try its internet security service risk-free now.

5. NordVPN — Industry Leader with Unique Security Features

NordVPN is one of the best VPN apps of 2023 due to its superior encryption capabilities. This VPN service earned its reputation as a secure, reliable, and affordable choice for users seeking an exceptional experience.

NordVPN best vpn app
Cheapest Plan Free Version Money-Back Guarantee Max Devices Supported Server Count Server Locations
$3.49/Month No 30 Days 6 5,500+ 59+

It offers state-of-the-art AES 256-bit encryption — the highest security level available — so your data and online activities remain completely safe from snoopers and hackers, even on public Wi-Fi networks.

Experience the ultimate security and reliability with NordVPN’s unique Meshnet technology.

By routing your traffic through multiple VPN servers instead of just one, you’ll enjoy enhanced privacy and no downtime – perfect for streaming or torrenting activities. You can also enjoy your favorite TV shows and movies without geographical restrictions.

Additionally, with NordVPN’s SmartPlay technology and servers optimized for streaming, you’ll have a smooth experience unblocking leading platforms like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime — uninterrupted, no matter where you are. Safe. Reliable. Fast. NordVPN has it all.

Pros

  • Top-notch security and encryption features
  • Can unblock restricted content
  • Strict no-logs policy

Cons

  • Limited torrent servers

Pricing

Start from as low as $3.49/month and enjoy NordVPN’s cutting–edge encryption, Meshnet technology, and specialized streaming servers. For extra features, opt for the Plus version and gain access to the Data Breach Scanner and CyberSec services.

Those looking for all the bells and whistles can opt for the Complete package for access to all NordVPN’s features plus 1TB of encrypted cloud storage.

nordvpn pricing

If you’re seeking a dependable VPN service provider, NordVPN is one of the best options this year. Boasting next-generation encryption capabilities, Meshnet technology, and dedicated streaming servers, it’s no surprise that NordVPN made it to our list – especially with its competitive price point and exceptional customer support team.

6. AtlasVPN — Great VPN for Privacy-Conscious Users on Unlimited Devices

AtlasVPN follows the current advancements in both security and technology fields, meaning you can expect frequent updates and bleeding-edge features. This VPN provider employs best-in-class WireGuard protocol, among others, to ensure you’re safe while gaming, streaming, or browsing.

best vpn multi hop feature

In addition, Atlas VPN is one of the first providers to shift to unlimited device support from the industry-standard five or ten.

Cheapest Plan Free Version Money-Back Guarantee Max Devices Supported Server Count Server Locations
$1.83/month Yes 30 Days Unlimited 750+ 49+

Privacy-conscious users will appreciate its SafeSwap servers, which continuously route your internet traffic through different IP addresses, making your online activity even more challenging to track than usual. Besides making it hard for someone to track your online activity, it shields you from advertisers and third-party trackers.

Thanks to its high-speed WireGuard protocol, you can stream content from Disney+, Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and other popular streaming services without experiencing lag or other problems.

Beyond this, you can have peace of mind knowing its SafeBrowse feature ensures you won’t open malicious links or download files from dangerous websites. It also helps you stay away from phishing websites and avoid various scams.

It also has a built-in data breach monitor. This detection mechanism informs you if your personal details get exposed on the internet, allowing you to protect your online accounts before malicious actors steal them.

Pros 

  • Affordable plans
  • Comprehensive free plan
  • User-friendly interface

Cons 

  • Free users are prompted to upgrade

Pricing

AtlasVPN has a comprehensive free plan that lets you connect unlimited devices, block ads, and have a high-speed connection. However, it limits you to 5GB of data per month, and you can connect to three servers only, making its three-year plan a much better option for just $1.83/month.

AtlasVPN pricing | cheap vpn service

Committing to AtlasVPN’s well-priced subscription plans encrypts your web traffic with ChaCha20 and AES-256, making you untrackable. Try its services risk-free for a month, thanks to its 30-day money-back guarantee.

7. Surfshark — Best App for Strong Encryption and Privacy Protocols

Surfshark is a powerful, reliable VPN service provider with robust encryption protocols and privacy policies to ensure your data remains secure. With that said, the key standout of Surfshark is that it allows you to install the app on an unlimited number of devices — an absolute bargain.

Surfshark vpn app
Cheapest Plan Free Version Money-Back Guarantee Max Devices Supported Server Count Server Locations
$2.49/Month for 2 Years 7-Day Mobile Trial 30 Days Unlimited 3,200+ 99+

Surfshark’s CleanWeb feature offers a powerful solution for secure browsing: blocking ads, trackers, and malware from your device. Not only does it protect you against malicious content, but its efficient operation also makes the web faster to traverse. This is an essential tool for anyone seeking privacy and safety when surfing online.

Meanwhile, its MultiHop feature lets you connect to multiple servers simultaneously to make tracking your online activities much harder. Perfect for those seeking to unblock restricted websites or access content from abroad.

On top of this, Surfshark’s NoBorders mode is a must-have for users looking to access the internet in countries with strict censorship and surveillance laws. This lets you bypass firewalls effortlessly and browse any content without fear of being blocked or tracked.

All of this makes Surfshark an invaluable tool.

Pros

  • Safe and secure
  • Can connect unlimited devices
  • Allows multi-hop connections

Cons

  • Unresponsive customer support

Pricing

Surfshark offers flexible plans tailored to suit your needs:

surfshark pricing

Surfshark is a great VPN service provider, offering powerful encryption protocols and stringent privacy policies for secure browsing.

With features such as CleanWeb, MultiHop, and NoBorders to protect you from malicious content and government surveillance – surfing the web has never been safer.

8. PrivadoVPN — Best Free VPN App 

PrivadoVPN stands out as one of the few free VPN apps that guarantee users a fast, secure, and reliable connection. The free plan offers a generous 10GB/month data allowance, making it the perfect choice for those seeking to protect their identity and data without spending a penny. This is ideal for light users looking to stay secure while browsing online.

Privado-VPN
Cheapest Plan Free Version Money-Back Guarantee Max Devices Supported Server Count Server Locations
Free Yes 30 Days 10 346+ 47+

Say goodbye to manual server connections and tedious setup processes — PrivadoVPN makes it easy to ensure you never forget to connect before browsing online. With no extra effort on your part, this automation ensures you can rest assured that your data is securely protected.

Also, PrivadoVPN’s Secure Server Network safeguards your data from malicious hackers. With servers located in the US, UK, Canada, and Germany – plus more than ten other countries around the world – PrivadoVPN gives you premium security and ample server options for $0.

Of course, free VPNs with smaller server networks do come with downfalls, but considering what’s on offer, PrivadoVPN remains the top choice for anyone looking for free VPN protection.

Pros

  • Free
  • Encrypts your connection
  • Hides your IP address

Cons

  • 10GB limit

Pricing

Enjoy 10GB of data allowance each month with its Free Forever Plan, or upgrade to an unlimited data package at a great value price point when you choose either of the premium plans.

privadovpn pricing

PrivadoVPN is an excellent choice for those seeking a free, secure connection. Upgrade to the paid plan for extra features, unlimited data, and all the servers.

9. Private Internet Access — Budget-Friendly Service with Robust Features

Private Internet Access (PIA) offers an excellent solution for those searching for a cost-effective yet high-quality VPN. For reliable online anonymity, it allows you to mask your IP address and swap it for another. This safeguards your identity from malicious actors on the web and stops websites from tracking you by hiding both your location and browsing history.

PIA top vpn app
Cheapest Plan Free Version Money-Back Guarantee Max Devices Supported Server Count Server Locations
$2.03/Month for 3 Years + 3 Months No 30 Days 10 29,500+ 84+

PIA also keeps your online activities secure by encrypting all of your internet traffic — one of the best ways to go undetected online. So, even if someone were to intercept the data, they wouldn’t be able to view what you’re doing or access any sensitive information. Furthermore, it ensures that your ISP can’t monitor and limit your connection speed based on usage.

Finally, PIA offers access to the highly–acclaimed WireGuard protocol. With a whopping 29,000+ servers, this secure and lightning–fast VPN is perfect for streaming services, gaming, and more – no lag or buffering, so you can enjoy your favorite content with ease.

Pros

  • Cheap but reliable budget VPN app
  • Open-source transparency
  • User-friendly

Cons

  • Based in the US

Pricing

Experience the same superior features across all Private Internet Access plans, with increased savings as you sign up for longer subscriptions.

PIA pricing

Private Internet Access boasts an impressive suite of features at one of the lowest price points. It’s dependable, user–friendly, and secure – making it one of the top choices for those looking to safeguard their online privacy.

10. CyberGhost VPN — Powerful Provider, Perfect for Content Streaming

Secure your connection and access geo-restricted content with CyberGhost VPN. Whether you’re streaming movies, downloading music, or simply browsing the web, you can do it all without worry.

cyberghost vpn app interface
Cheapest Plan Free Version Money-Back Guarantee Max Devices Supported Server Count Server Locations
$2.19/Month for 3 Years 1-Day Trial 45 Days 7 9,200+ 91+

With CyberGhost VPN’s dedicated servers, accessing your favorite sites like Netflix and Disney+ is as easy as ever. So you can settle in for an uninterrupted binge of your favorite show or stream the latest sports event with no fear of getting throttled by your ISP.

CyberGhost is renowned for being one of the fastest VPNs. It ensures lightning-fast speeds with its dedicated streaming servers, and its advanced technology also reduces latency, so you can access your favorite websites and enjoy a lag-free experience.

When it comes to security, CyberGhost VPN will also give you complete peace of mind. Utilizing military-grade encryption, your data is kept safe and secure when browsing the web as it’s routed through an impenetrable tunnel. This thwarts any attempts to snoop on your activity.

Pros

  • Massive server network
  • Fast and stable speeds
  • Good for long-term use

Cons

  • Steep learning curve

Pricing

For maximum savings, CyberGhost offers a 2-year plan for just $2.19/month with two additional months free. Plus, both the 6-month and 26-month plans come with a generous 45-day money-back guarantee.

Cyberghost pricing

With dedicated servers and ultra-fast connections, CyberGhost VPN ensures secure access to geo-restricted websites. Enjoy military-grade encryption for a safe connection and easy access to all your favorite sites.

11. IPVanish — Leading Service with Advanced Security Features 

IPVanish is the ultimate VPN app, boasting an array of advanced features for unparalleled security, privacy, and protection. With IPVanish at your side, you can rest assured that your data and online activities are safe from prying eyes.

ipvanish vpn app
Cheapest Plan Free Version Money-Back Guarantee Max Devices Supported Server Count Server Locations
$2.19/Month for 2 Years No 30 Days Unlimited 2,000+ 75+

IPVanish is a cut above the rest with its advanced suite of protocols. OpenVPN, IPSec/L2TP, and IKEv2/IPSec are all supported so that users can easily switch between them for maximum security on any device.

And with over 2,500 servers available, you won’t have to worry about overcrowded servers and lag. Besides all this, the app also offers advanced DNS leak protection, granting users total anonymity when browsing the web — even on public WiFi networks.

This makes IPVanish great for accessing geo-restricted content and websites, shopping online, gaming, and even gambling — nothing is off-limits with this VPN app.

Pros

  • Fast speeds
  • Strict no-logs policy
  • Working kill switch

Cons

  • No dedicated servers

Pricing

IPVanish offers three pricing plans, each with advanced features. Take advantage of its 30-day, risk-free money-back guarantee when you purchase a yearly or two-year plan.

IPvanish pricing

IPVanish is an outstanding VPN app boasting advanced features such as multiple connection protocols, DNS leak protection, and secure online payments. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to protect their data and activities online.

12. PrivateVPN — Well-Designed UI with Great Security Tools

PrivateVPN is designed with user-friendliness in mind, making it one of the most straightforward VPN apps available. Its intuitive UI makes it ideal for beginners looking to easily and securely access the internet.

private vpn interface
Cheapest Plan Free Version Money-Back Guarantee Max Devices Supported Server Count Server Locations
$2/Month for 3 Years 7-Day Trial 30 Days 10 200+ 63+

When connecting to PrivateVPN, you can secure up to 10 devices at the same time. This means that you don’t have to worry about running out of connections when multiple people are using it on different devices.

Whether you’re an individual looking to protect your own privacy or a business owner with several team members who need access, this app has got you covered. Plus, if your data usage is high, you’ll be glad to know that PrivateVPN offers unlimited bandwidth.

With that said, although PrivateVPN has little trouble accessing leading streaming platforms, the servers can get crowded, so you might experience slower speeds.

Despite this, PrivateVPN remains a solid option for downloading torrents and other P2P activities as it offers anonymous torrenting. This means that you don’t have to worry about your activity being tracked.

Pros

  • Works for streaming
  • Allows torrenting
  • Unlimited bandwidth

Cons

  • Small server fleet

Pricing

Enjoy maximum privacy with PrivateVPN’s flexible and affordable plans. Its 30-day money-back guarantee ensures you can enjoy it risk-free before making a commitment.

privatevpn pricing

PrivateVPN is the ideal choice for those seeking a straightforward VPN. Boasting an intuitive interface, 10 simultaneous connections, unlimited bandwidth, and anonymous torrenting capabilities, this secure and reliable service is perfect for personal use.

13. VyprVPN — Excellent for Bypassing Web Blockers

VyprVPN is the go-to solution for those looking to bypass school and office web blockers. With its reliable service, you can access the internet without censorship or any interference from your network administrator.

vyprvpn app
Cheapest Plan Free Version Money-Back Guarantee Max Devices Supported Server Count Server Locations
$5/Month No 30 Days 10 700+ 96+

In schools and offices, web blockers are a significant issue. But with VyprVPN’s split tunneling feature, you can access the internet freely and securely without any restrictions.

With this feature, you can choose which apps use the VPN connection — so the encryption won’t slow your streaming or gaming. This makes it easier to get around web blockers while maintaining excellent privacy and security levels.

Also, VyprVPN has advanced DNS leak protection that prevents your ISP from seeing which websites you’re visiting. This means you can freely access any site without worrying about being blocked or monitored by the administrator.

Moreover, VyprVPN is a no-log VPN that ensures your data is never stored or shared with any third parties. On the whole, you can confidently browse the web and access content without worrying about being tracked.

Pros

  • Own server infrastructure
  • No-logs policy
  • Fast internet speeds

Cons

  • Small server fleet

Pricing

VyprVPN offers two straightforward pricing plans that include unlimited data and server switching so that you can browse the web without any limitations. Plus, VyprVPN provides a 30-day money-back guarantee on all subscriptions for a risk-free trial.

vyprvpn pricing

14. ProtonVPN — Reliable and Fast with Unlimited Data Offered

For data-heavy users seeking a dependable and secure VPN, ProtonVPN is an ideal choice. For one, you’ll experience unlimited data bandwidth with no caps when you choose this VPN app.

protonvpn interface
Cheapest Plan Free Version Money-Back Guarantee Max Devices Supported Server Count Server Locations
$4.99/Month for 2 Years Limited free plan 30 Days 10 1,400+ 60+

You can browse, stream and download content without the worry of exceeding any usage thresholds. Perfect for streaming services like Netflix or Hulu – now you don’t need to worry about running out of data mid-movie.

ProtonVPN also packs a powerful punch with NetShield, its ad-blocker that shields you from intrusive ads and malicious websites. With it, you can surf the web without worrying about pop-ups or targeted advertising ruining your experience.

Lastly, ProtonVPN offers an unbeatable advantage with its VPN Accelerator for users who need reliable speeds. Stream media or download large files without lag or buffer and enjoy improved overall performance and reduced latency. With ProtonVPN, you can do it all without ever sacrificing speed.

Pros

  • Swiss-based
  • Fast and secure
  • No data limit

Cons

  • Limited pricing options

Pricing

Enjoy ProtonVPN’s Basic Plan free of charge, while the VPN Plus plan provides 65 countries and 1,900+ servers for just $4.99/month, with coverage for up to 10 devices simultaneously. For those seeking an extensive bundle, Proton Unlimited is the way to go.

Protonvpn pricing

Top 14 Best VPN Services Compared

Save time and energy with this concise overview of the top VPN apps available:

VPN App

Cheapest Plan

Free Version

Money-Back Guarantee

Max Devices Supported

Server Count

Server Locations

ExpressVPN

$6.67/month

No

30-days

5

3,000+

94+

PureVPN

$2.29/month

No

31-days

10

6,500+

78+

IvacyVPN

$1/month

No

30-days

10

5,700+

100+

TotalAV

$39/year

No

30-days

5

70+

30+

NordVPN

$4.19/month

No

30-days

6

5,400+

60+

AtlasVPN

Free

Yes

30-days

Unlimited

750+

49+

Surfshark

$2.30/month

7-Day Mobile Trial

30-days

Unlimited

3,200

100+

PrivadoVPN

Free

Yes

30-days

10

300+

45+

Private Internet Access

$2.03/month

No

30-days

10

10,000+

84+

CyberGhost VPN

$2.19/month

1-Day Trial

45-days

7

9,700

90+

IPVanish

$3.33/month

No

30-days

Unlimited

2,200

50+

PrivateVPN

$2/month

7-Day

30-days

10

200+

63+

VyprVPN

$5/month

No

30-days

5

700+

60+

ProtonVPN

Free

Limited Free Plan

30-days

10

1,937

67+

Why Do I Need a VPN?

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is an essential tool for protecting your online privacy, security, and identity. By encrypting your internet connection, the sophisticated technology of a VPN shields you from potential cyber-attacks, hacking, and unwelcome surveillance.

As a recent study revealed, cyber-attacks and content moderation are continually on the rise, making the use of a VPN all the more essential. No matter if you’re at home, on the move, or simply surfing the web abroad — a VPN can ensure your online activity remains private and secure.

What’s the Best Free VPN App? | Free Vs. Paid VPNs

While a free option may seem appealing, there are often limitations and risks that come with using them. With that said, PrivadoVPN offers a top-tier free VPN service, providing 10GB of data each month.

However, it’s important to note that free VPNs have certain restrictions — such as slower speeds and limited server access — which could prevent them from reliably unlocking streaming services.

Although free VPNs are a great way to test the waters of a VPN service, they often don’t offer the same level of security as paid plans, and completely free VPNs are renowned for selling user data. 

With that said, reliable providers like PrivadoVPN, although there are limitations, it provides free users with the same level of protection as premium customers.

On the whole, for a dependable VPN solution, we suggest investing in a paid provider that offers either an unconditional money-back guarantee or a trial period.

How We Ranked the Best VPN Apps | What Makes a Good Mobile VPN App?

When assessing the top VPN apps, it’s essential to consider a range of factors that are vital for an optimal user experience. Here’s how we ranked the best VPN services:

Performance and Speeds

A quality VPN app should provide fast and reliable connections that enable you to browse, stream, and download content seamlessly. Furthermore, the app should deliver consistent speeds unaffected by the number of people connected to a particular server.

On top of this, a reliable connection is paramount for an optimal VPN experience. A superior VPN application should remain connected without interruption, providing a seamless transition when switching between various servers.

Security

Ensure your online privacy and security with a VPN app that encrypts your internet connection and masks your identity. Look for one with strong privacy policies that protect data without storing any logs, as well as robust security protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN to secure the connection.

Unblocking Power

VPN users rely on their apps to bypass geo-restrictions and unblock popular streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, HBO, and Hulu. A great VPN app should be able to easily unblock these services, ensuring access to restricted content in any region.

Server Network

A great VPN app should boast a vast server network that enables you to establish connections with servers from any corner of the globe. This helps guarantee unhindered access to restricted content, as well as fast and reliable connections.

Value for Money

A quality VPN app should strike the perfect balance between cost-effectiveness and reliability. Not only must it provide robust security and privacy features, but also an equitable price point compared to other offerings in the market.

User Feedback

User reviews are a crucial consideration when assessing VPN apps — good ones should garner positive reviews from their users, who should enjoy an effortless and secure experience.

We’ve considered all of these factors to formulate our top 14 list of the best VPN apps.

How to Use a VPN App | Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to take control of your online privacy? ExpressVPN takes only a few minutes to install after you pick a subscription that fits your needs and budget from its website. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to install ExpressVPN after you purchase it.

1. Log Into Your Account to Download ExpressVPN on Your Device

ExpressVPN Installation Guide

2.  Copy or Write Down the Activation Code

how to install express vpn

3. Follow the On-Screen Instructions to Finish the Installation

express vpn install

4. Start Browsing Securely

install expressvpn

That’s all there is to it. Select a server based on the content or speeds you’re after and browse the web freely, securely, and privately.

VPN App FAQs

Are VPNs safe?

How does a VPN work?

Which VPN is the fastest?

What is the best VPN app?

What’s the best free VPN app?

What’s the best VPN for streaming?

Conclusion | What’s the Best VPN App in 2023?

In an age of digital advancement, Virtual Private Networks are essential for safeguarding your online privacy and security. With cyberattacks intensifying and surveillance becoming more prevalent, the importance of a secure and encrypted connection to the web can’t be ignored.

ExpressVPN has solidified its position as one of the leading VPNs on the market, renowned for its lightning-fast speeds, comprehensive encryption protocols, extensive server network, and strict privacy policies.

On top of that, ExpressVPN’s risk-free money-back guarantee allows you to try the VPN without putting any money on the line. Try it now and gain complete online freedom and protection.

A programmer by trade, Nick is a freelance writer and entrepreneur with a penchant for helping people achieve their business goals. He's been featured on Popular Mechanics & Apple News, and has founded several successful companies in e-commerce, marketing, and artificial intelligence. When he's not working on his latest project, you can find him hiking or painting.

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