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Anyone who's needed a VPN in the past will know that the best VPNs for personal use will make it easy to browse safely, avoid tracking, and use public Wi-Fi with more peace of mind.
With more devices connected and online threats increasing in 2025, using a VPN has become just as important as having antivirus software or a password manager.
A good VPN should be three things: simple to use, fast, with strong privacy features.
In this article, i'll list my favourites, so you can see how they compare, and pick the best personal VPN for your needs.
Websites, apps, and advertisers track nearly every click, scroll, and search you make, often without your knowledge or consent. From data-hungry apps to invasive browser trackers, your personal information is constantly collected, shared, or even sold. While legitimate websites will use your data to better serve your needs, other websites and apps with poor practices will often leave your data exposed.
If you're someone who travels or works in public places frequently, unsecured networks are one of the biggest threats to your data security. Open Wi-Fi connections like those in airports, cafés, restaurants and hotels often lack encryption, making it easy for hackers to intercept your data, steal login credentials, or even inject malware onto your device.
With more people developing AI tools, the demand for data is even greater, with AI systems entirely dependent on user datasets – including browsing habits, location history, purchase behaviour, and biometric data, to train. Data powers everything from hyper-personalised ads to predictive algorithms that influence what you see, buy, and believe online. And, as AI tools become more advanced, the value of your personal data – and the potential for it to be misused – has never been higher.
According to a KPMG study, 70% of business leaders said their company had increased the collection of personal data in the last year, and 33% suggested that people should be concerned about how their data is used, which warrants even more reason to keep your personal data safe. These concerns aren’t just hypothetical. Data breaches, identity theft, and targeted scams have all surged in recent years.
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) helps protect your digital footprint by creating a secure, encrypted tunnel between your device and the internet. This means your browsing activity, location, and IP address are hidden from everyone, including your internet provider.
By masking your online identity, a VPN makes it much harder for hackers, companies, or the government to monitor what you do online. So, if you value your privacy, it really is worth investing in one. Whether you're shopping, banking, streaming, or simply browsing the internet, a VPN will ensure that your personal data stays just that – personal.
Using a VPN for privacy isn't just for techies. With the right online safety tools for everyday use, you can bypass blockers, browse, shop, work or use social media without giving away too much information. A virtual private network keeps your connection safe no matter where you are.
In today's world, most people want anonymity online. By using a VPN, you add a layer of protection that most sites and trackers cannot bypass. Virtual private networks are now a common tool for anyone who cares about online privacy and avoiding tracking.
VPN helps protect your privacy online by hiding your IP address. This makes it harder for websites, apps, or hackers to track your activity. You can use a VPN to access streaming services that are not available in your country. This helps when you want to watch movies, TV shows, or sports blocked by geoblocks.
Paid VPN services often provide faster speeds and better security compared to free options. Many top VPN providers have apps that are easy to use on phones, computers, and even smart TVs.
When gaming, a VPN can lower the chance of DDoS attacks or being targeted by other players. While these are common threats that smart antivirus tools can also help to mitigate, a VPN can often reduce lag spikes too, though results may vary depending on the VPN and your location.
Here's a quick breakdown of why I personally use a VPN:
| Reason | How It Helps You |
|---|---|
| Hide your IP address | Protects your privacy |
| Secure Wi-Fi use | Keeps your data safer in public |
| Access streaming | Unblocks regional content |
| Online gaming | Can improve safety and stability |
| Bypass censorship | Lets you visit blocked websites |
A good VPN for personal use must protect your privacy, work across all your devices, and deliver fast, reliable speeds. You should look for features that keep your data safe and make your online experience smoother.
Your VPN should have a strict no-logs policy. This means it does not store records of your browsing activity, connection times, or real IP address. Look for services that clearly state this policy and explain it in simple terms.
Trusted VPNs back up their claims with independent audits by third-party security companies. These audits check if the VPN’s privacy promises are true. NordVPN and ExpressVPN have completed several independent audits.
A transparent privacy policy with no hidden details is important. Some VPNs offer extra privacy tools, such as a kill switch (also called Network Lock), which blocks your internet if the VPN disconnects, preventing leaks. Privacy goes beyond simple terms – it means you can trust your VPN to keep you and keep your family safe even if the connection drops.
Fast speeds are essential for streaming, gaming, and web browsing. Look at VPNs that offer WireGuard, NordLynx, or Lightway protocols – they deliver higher speeds and more stable connections than older protocols.
A wide server network is important. Top VPNs have thousands of servers in 50 or more countries. This gives you more choices for a fast, close-by server and lets you access content from other regions.
Server coverage affects how well you can unblock sites, stream HD content, or use services from around the world. Many VPNs let you see their server list and even test for speed before connecting. Some also offer meshnet or multi-hop (double VPN) options for extra security, but you may see slower speeds with these features.
A good VPN should be easy to use on all your devices. The interface needs to be clear and simple, letting you connect with one click. Leading VPNs provide clean apps for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, and even browser extensions for Chrome or Firefox.
Look for features like split tunneling, which lets you choose which apps use the VPN and which use your regular connection. Device support matters – check if your VPN covers all your devices under one plan and if it allows unlimited simultaneous connections or at least supports several devices at once.
Customer support and a clear setup guide are also helpful, especially for first-time users. Many leading VPNs include a money-back guarantee if you want to try the app risk-free.
If you want to stream shows, make sure the VPN can unblock popular platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, or Disney+. Not all VPNs work with every streaming service, so check for lists of apps the VPN supports.
For torrenting, look for servers that allow P2P traffic. Some VPNs highlight torrent-friendly servers for faster, safer downloads. Features like a kill switch (mentioned above), AES-256 encryption, and malware blockers like CleanWeb or Threat Protection Pro add extra safety.
Check for fast upload and download speeds, so you don’t have to wait too long when streaming or downloading files. Having split tunneling lets you use the VPN for torrenting while keeping other traffic on your regular connection, which saves bandwidth.
When choosing a VPN for personal use in 2025, consider factors like privacy policies, server locations, streaming support, speed, device compatibility, and price. Many premium VPNs also offer money-back guarantees and 24/7 customer support.
ExpressVPN is often ranked as one of the best VPN services for privacy and speed, and for good reason. It operates over 3,000 servers in 105 countries, making it super easy to connect from almost anywhere in the world. For me, as a digital nomad, that means I can access content (my favorite shows) from anywhere. It also supports Windows, Mac, Android and iOS. And, if you're someone with multiple gadgets, you can use it for us to 8 devices at once. ExpressVPN has a strict no-logs policy and uses 256-bit AES encryption for your data.
Because it can unblock Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime, it's a pretty good pick for travellers, and anyone wanting to watch content of their choice around the world.
| Feature | Express VPN |
|---|---|
| Number of Servers | 3,000+ |
| Countries | 105 |
| No-Logs Policy | Yes |
| Money-Back Guarantee | 30 days |
| Devices Supported | 8 at the same time |
Support is available 24/7 through live chat, and plans start at about $6.67/month if you choose a yearly deal.
NordVPN is also a reliable choice for personal use, with over 6,100 servers in 61 countries. It offers strong security features, like Double VPN, which sends your data through two servers for extra privacy.
NordVPN supports all major platforms, including Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS. It allows up to 10 devices at once, so you can protect all your gadgets with one account.
NordVPN is also great at unblocking streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu. So if you need your Disney fix, you'll be in good company with NordVPN. It also blocks ads and malware with its built-in security tools tool, which is a must for premium security tools.
| Feature | Express VPN |
|---|---|
| Number of Servers | 6,100++ |
| Countries | 61 |
| No-Logs Policy | Yes |
| Money-Back Guarantee | 30 days |
| Devices Supported | 10 at the same time |
Prices start from roughly $4.99/month with their 2-year plan, making it cost-effective for families and heavy users.
Surfshark stands out for letting you connect an unlimited number of devices with just the one subscription, which is insane! (in a good way). It also has over 3,200 servers in 100 countries, so you can find a good connection wherever you are.
Surfshark works well on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. It also supports Linux and smart TVs. Its CleanWeb feature blocks ads, trackers, and malware, and It uses strong encryption with a solid no-logs policy for added security. It can also unblock most popular streaming services.
| Features | Surfshark |
|---|---|
| Number of Servers | 3,200+ |
| Countries | 100 |
| No-Logs Policy | Yes |
| Money-Back Guarantee | 30 days |
| Devices Supported | Unlimited |
Did I mention it's also affordable? With prices starting from as low as $2.49/month for long-term plans, it's one of the cheapest VPNs I've tested to date.
ProtonVPN is well-known for its privacy focus, being based in Switzerland with strong no-logs policies and an open-source app.
It offers over 4,700 servers in 90+ countries. ProtonVPN works on all the main devices and platforms, including Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS.
You can connect up to 10 devices at once. ProtonVPN’s Secure Core servers route your traffic through privacy-friendly countries, giving extra protection.
It allows streaming with services like Netflix, and it also has a free plan, though the free plan is more limited in speed and features.
| Feature | Proton |
|---|---|
| Number of Servers | 4,700+ |
| Countries | 90+ |
| No-Logs Policy | Yes |
| Money-Back Guarantee | 30 days |
| Devices Supported | 10 at the same time |
Paid plans start at about $4.99/month, and ProtonVPN is often reviewed as one of the best premium VPN options for privacy.
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a VPN with over 30,000 servers in 91 countries, one of the largest networks. It supports Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, and browser extensions.
PIA uses open-source software and has a strict no-logs policy. You can use it on unlimited devices at once, similar to Surfshark.
PIA is good for torrenting and streaming, working with platforms like Netflix and BBC iPlayer. It includes features like an ad blocker and customizable encryption settings.
| Feature | PIA |
|---|---|
| Number of Servers | 30,000+ |
| Countries | 91 |
| No-Logs Policy | Yes |
| Money-Back Guarantee | 30 days |
| Devices Supported | Unlimited |
Plans start at around $2.03/month on longer deals, making it one of the best cheap VPN choices for users who want many server options.
Choosing the right VPN can be tricky. Each service has strengths and weaknesses.
Here’s a simple table comparing main pros and cons of some top VPNs:
| VPN | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| ExpressVPN | Fast speeds, strong security, easy to use | More expensive, no free version |
| NordVPN | High security, good price, many servers | Occasional slow servers, fewer extras |
| Surfshark | Unlimited devices, low price, nice features | Some slow servers, newer company |
| CyberGhost | User-friendly, good for streaming | Mixed speeds, fewer advanced options |
| Proton VPN | Free version, strong privacy tools days | Fewer servers, can be slow sometimes |
Key things to note:
You might care more about price or privacy. Check what matters most for your needs.
Picking a VPN for personal use depends on what matters most to you. If you care about speed for streaming or gaming, choose a service with fast servers and low lag. If privacy is most important, look for a VPN with a no-logs policy and robust encryption. Read privacy policies carefully and check for independent audits.
Key Features To Consider When Choosing a Personal VPN:
| Features | Reason It Matters |
|---|---|
| No-logs Policy | Protects your activity |
| Fast Servers | Improves streaming speed |
| Easy-to-use App | Simple for beginners |
| Strong Support | To help when any issues arise |
| Pricing | Your budget always matters – compare plans, and always look for a money-back guarantee |
Whatever you choose, make sure your choice supports all of your devices, including your phone, laptop, or tablet.
VPNs are not all the same, so try a few to see which fits your needs best, and always update your app to get the latest security and features.
VPN services have different strengths when it comes to privacy, speed, and device support. Some VPNs stand out for their free plan, top-rated security, or fast server speeds in 2025.
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