Compare All VPN Software 2026

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through a server in another location, hiding your IP address and protecting your data from surveillance, hackers, and ISP tracking. VPNs are used for privacy, accessing geo-restricted content, and securing public Wi-Fi connections.

VPN services typically cost $2-$13 per month depending on the plan length. Monthly plans run $10-$13/month, annual plans cost $4-$7/month, and 2-year plans drop to $2-$4/month. Mullvad is the exception with a flat €5/month regardless of commitment. Most VPNs offer 30-day money-back guarantees.

NordVPN ($3-$5/month on 2-year plans) offers more features including double VPN, dedicated IP, and Meshnet at a lower price. ExpressVPN ($6-$9/month on annual plans) has a simpler interface and slightly faster speeds in some regions. NordVPN is better value; ExpressVPN is better for simplicity and streaming reliability.

Most free VPNs are not recommended—they monetize through ads, data selling, or have weak encryption. ProtonVPN offers the only reputable free tier with no data caps but limited to servers in 5 countries and 1 device. For security-critical use, paid VPNs ($2-$5/month) are strongly recommended.

Hidden costs include: dedicated IP addresses ($3-$5/month extra), additional simultaneous connections beyond the base limit, premium server locations, business/team management features, and auto-renewal at higher rates after the initial discount period. Always check the renewal price, which is typically 50-100% higher than the introductory rate.

NordVPN and ExpressVPN are the most reliable for streaming, consistently unblocking Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and other services across regions. Surfshark also performs well at a lower price point. ProtonVPN Plus supports streaming but with fewer optimized servers. Mullvad does not focus on streaming.

Device limits vary: Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections, NordVPN allows 10 devices, ExpressVPN allows 8, ProtonVPN Plus allows 10, and Mullvad allows 5. Most providers also support router installation, which covers all devices on your network as a single connection.

WireGuard is the fastest and most modern protocol, used by default in most VPNs. OpenVPN is the most battle-tested for security. NordVPN uses NordLynx (WireGuard-based), ExpressVPN uses its proprietary Lightway protocol. For most users, the default protocol setting provides the best balance of speed and security.

VPNs typically reduce speeds by 10-30% due to encryption overhead and routing. WireGuard/NordLynx minimizes this impact to 5-15%. Premium VPNs like NordVPN and ExpressVPN maintain speeds above 500 Mbps on fast connections. Speed impact is minimal for browsing and streaming but noticeable for competitive gaming.

Mullvad is the gold standard for privacy—it accepts cash payments, requires no email or account info, and has been independently audited. ProtonVPN (Swiss-based) is also excellent with strong privacy laws and open-source apps. NordVPN has completed multiple independent audits of its no-logs policy. All three are recommended by privacy advocates.