A Virtual Private Network (VPN) serves as a shield for your online activities, safeguarding your device and information. Premier VPNs employ encryption to secure your data, channeling it through a protected server. This not only assigns you a new IP address but also creates the illusion that you’re in a location of your preference. Such a setup facilitates the unlocking of streaming services and restricted content abroad while cloaking your internet usage from potential threats like cyber criminals, ISPs, and even government surveillance.
Regrettably, the demand for your data spans from governments to advertisers, with entities like your ISP willing to part with it. Fortunately, an increasing number of people now recognize the perils of constant monitoring by corporations and governments in their online activities. The growing awareness has spurred a desire to counteract these intrusions.
Addressing the pervasive issue of surveillance capitalism is no simple task, but a VPN service can offer a semblance of privacy. Having extensively tested various options, I’ve identified the top choices in terms of technical security, privacy policies, features, unblocking capabilities, speed, server locations, and overall value for money. Here are the leading VPNs in 2023, accompanied by guidance on what to consider when selecting the most suitable VPN app for your needs.
1. Express VPN
ExpressVPN stands tall as the premier VPN service in 2023, delivering a top-tier experience with a myriad of features that set it apart. From unblocking streaming sites to robust security measures, it’s a comprehensive solution for users seeking a reliable and user-friendly VPN.
Unmatched Quality and Features
- Streaming Powerhouse: Unlock content on popular platforms such as Netflix, Amazon, Disney, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, Hulu, ITVX, Channel 4, 9Now, and 10 Play.
- Multi-Platform Availability: Compatible with Windows, Android, iOS, Mac, Linux (command-line only), Routers, and more.
- Global Presence: Boasting over 3,200 servers across 160 locations in 94 countries, ExpressVPN provides unparalleled access to content worldwide.
- Simultaneous Connections: Connect up to 8 devices simultaneously, ensuring comprehensive protection for your digital life.
- 24/7 Support: Access expert customer support around the clock, guaranteeing assistance whenever you need it.
- Refund Period: A risk-free trial period of 30 days, allowing users to explore ExpressVPN’s capabilities.
Pricing Plans
- 12 months: $6.67 per month (+3 months free)
- 6 months: $9.99 per month
- 1 month: $12.95 per month
Sign Up if
- Set-and-Forget Convenience: ExpressVPN’s auto-connect feature ensures hassle-free protection with a one-time connection.
- Global Content Access: With 160 locations worldwide, ExpressVPN facilitates access to local content, regardless of your location.
- Trustworthy Security Partner: ExpressVPN’s regular audits and no-logs policy make it a reliable choice for safeguarding information, particularly in regions with oppressive regimes.
Don’t Sign up if
- Strict Budget Constraints: In a cost-of-living crisis, ExpressVPN may be considered an expensive choice. Those on a tight budget might find alternatives like NordVPN or Surfshark more financially viable.
- Need for Full Security Suite: If you require an all-in-one solution with built-in antivirus capabilities, ExpressVPN may not align with your specific security needs.
Closing Impression
ExpressVPN masterfully balances security, usability, performance, and unblocking capabilities, making it the unequivocal choice for VPN users. Its exceptional customization options and a 30-day money-back guarantee underscore its commitment to user satisfaction. Try ExpressVPN and experience why it deserves its position as the #1 VPN in 2023.
2. NordVPN
For a long time, NordVPN has offered a VPN that is a “kitchen sink”—it offers a little bit of everything. Its first characteristics have been multi-hop connections and access to Tor over VPN, which are still uncommon among rivals. NordVPN has also succeeded in establishing itself as a major participant in the relatively new VPN market. In addition to enhancing its VPN service, it currently acquires other businesses and launches brand-new goods.
Unmatched Quality and Features
NordVPN stands out with over 5,670 servers across 80 locations in 60 countries, ensuring reliable access to popular streaming sites like Netflix, Amazon, and more. Its high-speed NordLynx protocol and meshnet secure network provide excellent security tools, making it a comprehensive solution. The VPN subscription also includes ad blocking and malware protection, enhancing its appeal as an all-in-one security suite.
Pricing Plans
NordVPN caters to various needs with options for 2 years, 1 year, and a monthly subscription.
- Current Promotion: +3 MONTHS FREE for the 2-year plan, priced at $3.19 per month.
- 1-year plan: Available at $4.99 per month.
- Monthly option: Priced at $12.99.
Sign Up if
- You want an all-in-one security suite: NordVPN provides ad blocking and malware protection as standard, making it a comprehensive security solution.
- Streaming Netflix is your primary use case: NordVPN is renowned as the best VPN for Netflix, ensuring access to streams worldwide.
- You seek a blend of quality and cost: NordVPN offers a mid-range cost with plenty of features, impressive speeds, and additional security tools.
Don’t Sign Up if
- You prefer a super simple interface: NordVPN’s map-style interface might be fun, but if you prefer a cleaner design, other top picks offer simpler apps.
- You want to access content everywhere: With servers in 60 locations, NordVPN provides options, but compared to other top picks, it is more limited in countries and locations.
Closing Impression
NordVPN earns a solid 4½ rating, striking a perfect balance between security, usability, performance, and unblocking capability. It serves as an excellent middle-ground for those seeking an all-in-one security solution without the higher investment of ExpressVPN. Whether you’re after a Netflix VPN or comprehensive security features, NordVPN offers exceptional value for money, backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.
3. Surf Shark VPN
Although Surfshark is a relatively new player in the market, it made a strong impression right away with a polished product that swiftly caught up to the competition. It supports the WireGuard protocol and provides multi-hop connections, although it lacks some of the capabilities of its rivals. Its blue design and higher-than-average monthly fee make it easy to compare to NordVPN, another blue VPN. Although Surfshark VPN was recently acquired by that company, both businesses are still run separately. Additionally, Surfshark VPN has grown and, for a fee, now provides antivirus protection.
Unmatched Quality and Features
Surfshark stands out as a top-tier VPN with exceptional features and unbeatable quality. Boasting impressive speeds and a premium service, it effortlessly unblocks popular streaming sites such as Netflix, Amazon, Disney, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, ITVX, Channel 4, 9Now, and 10 Play. With over 3,200 servers in 143 locations across 100 countries, Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections, making it a reliable choice for users seeking unparalleled performance and a robust network. The inclusion of a pause VPN feature adds to its appeal, although some users may find the Windows kill switch still a bit buggy.
Pricing Plans
- Surfshark offers cost-effective VPN plans:
- 24-month subscription: $2.30/month
- 12-month plan: $3.99/month
- Monthly option: $15.45
- Exclusive offer: +2 MONTHS FREE on the 24-month plan. Affordable choices without compromising quality.
Sign Up if
- You want the best budget VPN: Surfshark combines affordability with an array of features, incredible speeds, and a reliable network, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious users.
- You need a fast VPN: Boasting average speeds exceeding 950 Mbps, Surfshark outpaces competitors, making it the top choice for users prioritizing speed.
- You want a cheap security suite: With built-in ad-blocking, antivirus, tracker-free browsing, and a data breach notifier, Surfshark offers a comprehensive security suite at an affordable price.
Don’t Sign Up if
- You need a bulletproof kill switch: Users with high-security requirements may find Surfshark’s kill switch to have some issues. In such cases, alternatives like ExpressVPN or NordVPN are recommended.
- You need more server locations: If 143 locations are insufficient for your needs, ExpressVPN may be a better fit with its extensive server network.
Closing Impression
Surfshark earns a remarkable 4.5-star rating, making it an exceptional value-for-money VPN. With outstanding speeds, unlimited simultaneous connections, and a diverse set of features, it offers a lot at a low price. Despite some minor drawbacks, such as the kill switch issues, Surfshark’s 30-day money-back guarantee allows users to explore its capabilities risk-free. It stands out as the preferred choice for individuals seeking a budget-friendly VPN without compromising on quality and security.