Choosing the best VPN service provider that is reliable in all aspects is a hard work. The criteria for choosing best VPN are many and vary on users needs. For example, some users might need fast access to Netflix US, and that requirement will determine their choice.
The number of reasons to use VPN services is rapidly increasing. That is for privacy and anonymity online.
- Governments study our Internet behavior
- Corporations target advertising
- Copyright protectors monitor torrent traffic
So, protection with a VPN has become a natural solution.
Must have characteristics for VPN services
Everyone can choose the best VPN, but only if they test several services personally. We did that job for you. What are the main characteristics that we were paying attention to.
1. Security
VPN service must explain the technology used to provide secure access via VPN. Many VPN service providers use their own software, which is proprietary and maybe it has not been properly audited. So it is important to check in advance if technologies that have already been tested, such as OpenVPN, are supported.
2. Privacy and log saving
All VPNs promise privacy and anonymity. Having logs involves saving metadata about the connection, such as the time, connection frequency to the network with the VPN, connection duration and the total traffic. Usage logs store information about online activity, sites visited, and personal data entered into fields. Some providers keep connection logs for a limited time (from a few hours to three days) which is a good practice for troubleshooting, while some providers keep logs for months to years and are happy to give them to whomever they wish. So, no log saving is important.
3. Cross-platform
If you are planning to use VPN on different devices like personal computer, cell phone, router, browser, etc., you need to find out in advance if the provider has a suitable application for those devices on which you plan to use the VPN service. If the VPN provider does not work on your desireable devices, then whats the point. Top VPN service providers that we pick have most popular devices covered.
4. Simultaneous connections
It is necessary to estimate in advance the number of devices to be connected to the VPN at the same time. Does your provider allow multiple simultaneous connections, and if so, how many? If you run a VPN client on your computer and phone, that’s already two simultaneous connections. And if some of your co-workers are going to use VPN connection, thats even more. Therefore, it is necessary to clarify the number of allowed simultaneous connections at planned VPN provider beforehand not to get into an unpleasant situation. Our pick minimum is 5 simultaneous connections.
5. Speed
Speeds when using a VPN vary greatly and depend on a variety of factors. These include the speed with your provider, location of remote servers, server ping. When a VPN provider has a huge number of customers, there may be problems with the internet access speed during the busiest hours of operation. That is not good. We pick only reliable and fast all-day-long VPN service providers
6. Guarantees
Sometimes a free trial is enough to see if a VPN doesn’t meet your needs. It allows you to try out the features of the VPN service and determine if it is suitable for you
Many services have a no-questions-asked money-back guarantee. While others apply harsh restrictions to their refund policy. Therefore, you should always read reviews from previous customers, as deceived users may report no refunds and no compensation.
7. Kill Switch
A VPN connection can sometimes go down, even with a trusted provider. When the connection is severed, there is a risk of revealing the real IP address. To prevent accidental connection interruptions that could reveal data, many VPN providers build a kill switch into their software. It shuts down the entire Internet connection whenever your VPN connection goes down, until the VPN connection is restored.
Two handpicked best VPN services
We have handpicked 2 best VPN service providers. These VPN services are, of course, all excellent in terms of security, privacy, speed and functionality.
In addition, each has its own unique advantages.
1. Best VPN for price & features – NordVPN
In terms of value for money, NordVPN is really the best among the top VPN service providers.
It is an option for those who want maximum quality with minimum investment.
Advantages
User-friendly interface, easy to use
30-day money-back guarantee
24/7 customer support
No logs VPN service
Kill switch
Extreme reliability
6 simultaneous connections
Compatible with all devices and browsers
Best price/quality
Risk free, try out NordVPN
2. Best VPN for streams & torrents – ExpressVPN
If you like games and movies, you might be particularly interested in our next top option – ExpressVPN.
It is safe, fast and most convenient VPN for streaming and P2P sharing (torrents).
Advantages
Best-in-class security encryption
30-day money-back guarantee
24/7 chat support
No logs VPN service
Kill switch
Extreme reliability
5 simultaneous connections
VPN compatibility with all devices and browsers
Windows, iOS, Mac, Android, Linux, routers, game consoles, Smart TV
Great for streams & torrents
Risk free, try out ExpressVPN
Best VPN services – people also ask