The Best VPN Services of 2024

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) can help you bypass site restrictions, enable safe torrenting, or ensure your online anonymity. At VPNOverview, we identify the leading VPNs in the market through frequent, rigorous evaluations.

Our specialists continuously assess the top VPN choices available, scrutinizing their overall performance.

The Best VPN in 2024

The following VPNs will protect your data, unlock global content, and safeguard your online activities. Moreover, they provide the highest encryption standards and are compatible with all major operating systems.

Most importantly, these VPNs offer exceptional value for specific needs, such as streaming content from various regions, downloading torrents securely, or sticking to a tight budget.

We perform hands-on assessments of each VPN. In total, we have thoroughly tested over 70 VPN services, evaluating aspects like speed, security, privacy, and user experience. The best VPNs excel in fast connections, robust security measures, stringent no-log policies, and versatile unblocking capabilities.

1. NordVPN: The Best Overall VPN

Why We Picked NordVPN as the Top VPN

NordVPN is a well-known premium VPN provider, boasting an extensive network of servers worldwide (6,441 servers across 111 countries), military-grade AES 256-bit encryption, and competitive pricing.

With NordVPN, you’ll have access to everything you need, from dark web monitoring to servers optimized for peer-to-peer (P2P) traffic. NordVPN consistently pushes the boundaries to enhance its services. It has held the top spot in our rankings for two consecutive years.

Is NordVPN Suitable for Streaming and Torrenting?

We were consistently able to unlock platforms like Netflix US, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, and Crunchyroll, among others. With NordVPN's SmartPlay feature, you enjoy the combined benefits of a VPN and Smart DNS. It masks your IP address, encrypts your connection, and automatically manages your DNS requests as needed.

NordVPN also allows for anonymous torrenting via specialized P2P servers. With its impressive speed, downloading your favorite media is swift and seamless. We successfully downloaded files over 50 GB without worrying about ISP throttling.

Device Compatibility with NordVPN

One NordVPN subscription covers up to ten devices simultaneously. It offers native apps for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux.

You can also use NordVPN with Android TV, gaming consoles, Amazon Fire Stick, Kindle Fire, Raspberry Pi, VPN routers, and other devices. Browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge are also available.

Safety and Privacy

NordVPN recently passed a security audit by Deloitte, a leading independent auditing firm, confirming its no-logs policy. As expected, your data remains completely secure with NordVPN.

Some of NordVPN’s advanced security features include:

• Threat Protection: Blocks ads, trackers, and malware
• Dark Web Monitoring: Alerts you to email-related data leaks on the dark web
• Double VPN: Routes traffic through two VPN servers, adding an extra layer of encryption
• Advanced Kill Switch: Lets you decide which apps to block if your VPN connection drops

In addition to standard VPN protocols, NordVPN offers its proprietary protocol built on WireGuard, known as NordLynx, providing faster and more secure performance than OpenVPN.

During our privacy tests, we detected no WebRTC or DNS leaks from the VPN connection. Overall, NordVPN is an excellent choice for anyone seeking secure, anonymous browsing.

Customer Support

Being a top-tier VPN provider, NordVPN also delivers exceptional customer service. They offer responsive live chat support and can be reached via email for non-urgent inquiries.

When we contacted support, their team responded promptly, answering all our questions with thorough and expert knowledge.

Additionally, NordVPN features an extensive Help Center, which includes a detailed FAQ section, general inquiries, and specific sections for billing and connectivity issues. It's a good idea to explore the Help Center first, as it’s quite comprehensive.

Our Verdict on NordVPN

Our team unanimously agrees: NordVPN is the best VPN service in 2024, further cementing its leadership. It’s a world-class VPN, ideal for both novices and advanced users alike.

Setting up NordVPN is a breeze. It works straight out of the box and requires no technical expertise. Plus, NordVPN offers attractive discounts for new customers.

2. Surfshark: Best Value for Money

Why We Chose Surfshark

Surfshark stands out as a highly affordable VPN service that quickly transformed from a newcomer to one of the top-rated providers. Our internal testing revealed it to be among the fastest, maintaining up to 95% of original connection speeds.

Even with its budget-friendly pricing, Surfshark offers an impressive suite of features, including military-grade encryption, an extensive global server network, and top-tier security tools. Additionally, a single Surfshark account allows for unlimited simultaneous device connections.

Is Surfshark Good for Streaming and Torrenting?

Surfshark excels in streaming services like Netflix and more. We successfully accessed over 30 regional Netflix libraries, including Netflix US.

If torrenting is part of your routine, Surfshark is an excellent option. It supports P2P traffic through the VPN app without compromising your privacy or safety. We encountered no issues with speed or throttling during our torrenting sessions.

Similar to NordVPN, Surfshark offers specialized P2P servers, but it has a unique feature that automatically connects you to one when it detects torrenting activity. This comes in handy if you forget to manually switch servers.

Which Devices and Operating Systems Support Surfshark?

As one of the top VPN providers, Surfshark is compatible with all major operating systems. It offers native applications for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux, along with browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.

You can also configure Surfshark on gaming consoles and smart TVs. Although installation on routers can be a bit more challenging, it’s possible and well worth the effort for broader coverage.

Safety and Privacy

Surfshark employs AES 256-bit encryption, the same as NordVPN, and supports a variety of protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard, ensuring maximum security.

Its MultiHop feature adds an extra layer of protection by routing your traffic through two VPN servers. For users seeking the highest level of online anonymity, this is as secure as it gets.

Additionally, Surfshark's CleanWeb suite blocks ads, pop-ups, and malware in your browser or other applications.

Customer Support

Surfshark has a dedicated support section filled with VPN guides and answers to common questions. When we reached out via live chat and email, their support team responded quickly and helpfully.

Final Thoughts on Surfshark

Surfshark offers remarkable value for its cost. If you're looking for an affordable VPN that unblocks streaming services and provides excellent security features, it’s a top contender.

With a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can test Surfshark risk-free. If it doesn’t meet your needs, you’ll receive a full refund—an excellent way to try the service before committing long-term.

3. ExpressVPN: Premium Service Without Compromises

Why We Chose ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is among the largest and most reputable VPN providers worldwide. Known for prioritizing security and privacy, it offers user-friendly apps for all major platforms and even supports router installations with custom firmware.

With an extensive VPN server network spanning 105 countries, ExpressVPN is also one of the fastest options on the market. Its multiple independent audits ensure there are no privacy concerns, providing peace of mind for users.

Is ExpressVPN Good for Streaming and Torrenting?

ExpressVPN supports anonymous torrenting, and our tests with uTorrent and BitTorrent showed excellent performance without any signs of speed throttling.

Additionally, ExpressVPN allows access to global streaming services, including American Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu from outside the US. We’ve used ExpressVPN for years to unlock various platforms, and any issues we encountered were swiftly resolved by their support team.

Device Compatibility with ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN can be used on up to eight devices simultaneously, offering simple and reliable apps for Android, Windows, iOS, macOS, and Linux. We particularly appreciated how easy it was to install on routers using the dedicated firmware provided by ExpressVPN.

For non-native English speakers, the app is available in 17 different languages, making it accessible to a wider audience.

Safety and Privacy

ExpressVPN is a highly secure VPN service that supports various protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and its own Lightway protocol. Like the other top VPNs, it employs AES 256-bit encryption to safeguard your data.

Moreover, ExpressVPN uses diskless servers, which means that even the provider cannot track or log your online activity. This commitment to privacy has earned ExpressVPN a stellar reputation over time.

ExpressVPN also includes powerful ad-blocking and content-filtering tools, with recent features like a porn blocker to restrict access to adult websites.

Customer Support

ExpressVPN offers 24/7 live chat support, which we tested and found responsive. Email inquiries were answered within 12 hours, and the site includes a comprehensive support section with FAQs and setup guides for troubleshooting.

Areas for Improvement

Although ExpressVPN is a fantastic service, it comes with a higher price tag compared to alternatives like NordVPN or Surfshark, which offer similar features at a lower cost.

Final Verdict on ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is a premium, user-friendly VPN with an array of powerful features. It’s an excellent choice for users who want unrestricted streaming, torrenting, and secure browsing.

The main downside is the cost, especially if you opt for a monthly subscription. However, ExpressVPN often offers discounts, and with a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try it risk-free before making a long-term commitment.

4. CyberGhost: Reliable VPN with the Most Generous Money-Back Guarantee

Why We Chose CyberGhost VPN

We selected CyberGhost as one of the best VPNs due to its affordability, user-friendly interface, and secure features, making it ideal for beginners. With over 11,700+ servers spanning across 100 countries, it offers an impressive range of options.

In addition, CyberGhost provides an array of fantastic features: specialized gaming servers, unlimited bandwidth, a kill switch, and split tunneling, just to name a few. It’s also an excellent choice for unblocking Netflix!

Is CyberGhost Good for Streaming and Torrenting?

CyberGhost ranks among the top VPNs for streaming. Aside from Netflix, it offers worldwide access to streaming services like Hulu, HBO Max, Paramount+, and BBC iPlayer, among many others.

The VPN offers specialized streaming servers optimized for these platforms—great news for movie buffs and TV show fans! We’ve successfully used these servers many times to unblock various streaming platforms.

When it comes to torrenting, CyberGhost’s dedicated P2P servers support downloading via BitTorrent, uTorrent, and other P2P software.

What Devices and Operating Systems Work with CyberGhost?

CyberGhost allows you to connect up to seven devices simultaneously using a single account, providing coverage for all your devices. You can even request a dedicated IP address if needed.

CyberGhost offers dedicated apps for Windows, macOS, iPhone, iPad, Android, and Linux, allowing you to secure your devices with just a few clicks.

Safety and Privacy

CyberGhost uses AES 256-bit encryption and provides several protocols to choose from, such as OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard. It’s a certified no-logs VPN, meaning it doesn’t store user data.

However, the provider does collect some anonymized usage statistics to improve the VPN experience. Rest assured, no personally identifiable information is logged.

Customer Support

CyberGhost’s customer service is accessible through 24/7 live chat. Their website also contains a comprehensive library of guides and FAQs if you prefer to troubleshoot on your own. This makes CyberGhost one of the top VPN providers on the market.

Areas for Improvement

We noticed that this otherwise high-performing VPN occasionally suffers from inconsistent speeds, with connection dips occurring sporadically. Even at its best, it doesn’t match the speeds of NordVPN or Surfshark.

Additionally, while live chat support is available, agents sometimes provide generic responses that can be found directly on the support page.

Final Verdict on CyberGhost

CyberGhost offers a reliable VPN service at a competitive price, making it an excellent choice for torrenting and Netflix. It’s also one of the best VPN options for beginners.

Its global server network is extensive, but some competitors’ features placed CyberGhost in fourth position. Nonetheless, it remains a solid choice.

One of its key advantages is the 45-day money-back guarantee, as well as attractive discounts for new customers. You can try it risk-free by clicking the link below.

5. Private Internet Access: Strong VPN with the Largest Server Network

Why We Chose Private Internet Access VPN

Private Internet Access (PIA) is a premium VPN that has continued to grow since its inception in 2010. By opting for PIA, you can rely on robust security features and access to a vast global network of servers.

In 2019, PIA was acquired by the same company that owns CyberGhost and ExpressVPN, which led to further infrastructure upgrades. If you're looking for a VPN focused on security, PIA is hard to beat.

Despite its affordable price, Private Internet Access offers everything expected from top-tier VPNs, including transparency (with open-source code), a global server network, top-notch encryption, and a zero-logs policy.

Is PIA Good for Streaming and Torrenting?

Although known for its security, PIA is also an excellent option for streaming and torrenting. We were able to access Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and multiple Netflix libraries with ease.

PIA allowed us to safely and anonymously download torrents. While other VPNs might offer slightly faster speeds, PIA provides a secure torrenting environment.

What Devices and Operating Systems Are Compatible with Private Internet Access?

PIA offers native apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, along with browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Opera.

With PIA, you can connect unlimited devices simultaneously under a single account—eliminating the need for multiple subscriptions. A definite plus!

Safety and Privacy

PIA excels in security, supporting multiple protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard. Furthermore, PIA follows a strict no-logs policy, ensuring that no user data is stored.

It also includes an automatic kill switch to prevent data leaks and offers an ad, tracker, and malware blocker known as PIA MACE, which we found particularly useful. These features are typically offered only by top-tier VPNs.

Customer Support

PIA boasts a comprehensive knowledge base, including detailed guides for a variety of common issues. If you have a specific question, you can fill out a support ticket. Our experience with PIA’s support team was positive and efficient.

Additionally, PIA offers live chat support, providing quick assistance for urgent queries.

Areas for Improvement

While PIA boasts an impressive server network, we noticed inconsistent speeds, especially when connecting to distant servers in regions like Australia or Japan.

The design of the VPN apps also feels a bit outdated, and we believe that the user interface could be made more intuitive, offering quicker access to key settings and features.

Final Verdict on Private Internet Access (PIA)

Competition in the VPN market is welcome, and we’d be concerned if a single company controlled all major VPN providers. Though PIA, CyberGhost, and ExpressVPN are now owned by the same parent company, each still earns its place on our list of top VPNs.

Private Internet Access has established a solid reputation over the years, and we look forward to seeing how they continue to innovate.

What Is a Virtual Private Network?

A VPN is software that allows you to browse the internet through an encrypted tunnel. Once you connect to a VPN server, your IP address is masked. Although your ISP can see that you're using a VPN, they won’t know what you’re doing online.

This added layer of security is crucial for protecting your data when using public Wi-Fi. Additionally, your altered IP address enables you to unblock content and apps from other countries.

How Do VPNs Work?

A VPN uses encryption (often AES 256-bit) to scramble your data, ensuring that your online activities remain hidden from your ISP, websites, or other entities.

By connecting to a VPN server in another location, your virtual location changes. For example, if you connect to a server in the US, you'll appear to have a US-based IP address.

Why Might You Need a VPN?

There are many reasons why using a VPN is beneficial:

• Increased Security: VPNs encrypt your online activity, preventing your ISP, hackers, or even governments from spying on your traffic.
• Anonymity: A VPN hides your real IP address, replacing it with the VPN server’s IP, ensuring that your online identity remains concealed.
• Accessing Geo-Restricted Content: By connecting to servers in other countries, a VPN allows you to access apps, websites, and streaming libraries from anywhere.
• Overcoming Online Censorship: By changing your IP address, VPNs help bypass restrictive firewalls in countries with heavy censorship. This is helpful for accessing blocked apps while traveling.

The Best VPNs Right Now

After testing numerous VPNs, we’ve selected the top five providers. Which VPN is best for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences, but rest assured that all five offer excellent security and performance.

Using a reliable VPN ensures your online privacy and security. The VPNs we’ve listed here are compatible with most devices, including macOS, Windows, Android, iOS, and Linux.

NordVPN, our top-rated VPN, is currently available at a 74% discount! Check it out for yourself, and soon, you won’t want to browse the internet without a VPN.