ExpressVPN is widely recognized as the best paid VPN due to its high-speed servers, robust security features, widespread server locations, and excellent customer support. It’s also compatible with a wide range of devices and offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Important Factors When Choosing a VPN
Privacy and Security
VPN providers primarily serve to protect user privacy and secure data. Therefore, when choosing a VPN, you need to understand what security measures they employ.
Encryption Standards
Different VPNs use different encryption standards. The most secure and commonly used is AES-256, used by the likes of ExpressVPN and NordVPN. This military-grade encryption is virtually uncrackable.
Logging Policies
A VPN provider’s logging policy should also be transparent. You should look for a VPN that doesn’t store your activity logs. For instance, NordVPN has a strict no-logs policy, ensuring they don’t track, collect, or share your private data.
Speed and Performance
The speed and performance of a VPN are crucial, especially for users who want to stream video content or download large files.
Server Speeds
VPNs usually slow down your internet connection slightly due to the encryption process. However, the best VPNs minimize this impact. For example, ExpressVPN has consistently fast server speeds, making it ideal for streaming Netflix or downloading content.
Server Uptime
A high server uptime (close to 100%) ensures that the VPN service is always available when you need it.
Number of Server Locations
The number of server locations provided by a VPN can influence its performance and the user’s ability to bypass geo-restrictions.
Global Coverage
The more server locations, the higher the chances of bypassing geo-restrictions. For instance, ExpressVPN offers a vast network with servers in over 90 countries.
Number of Servers
More servers mean less chance of server overload and better speeds. NordVPN, for example, has more than 5400 servers worldwide.
Ease of Use and Support
A user-friendly VPN can make the process of connecting to a VPN server as straightforward as possible.
User Interface
Look for a VPN with a user-friendly interface. For instance, CyberGhost has a very intuitive interface, easy for beginners to navigate.
Customer Support
Reliable customer support is essential. Most leading VPNs, such as Surfshark and ExpressVPN, offer 24/7 live chat support to help with any issues.
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is among the top-rated VPN providers worldwide, known for its impressive speed, robust security, and user-friendly interface.
Privacy and Security
ExpressVPN uses Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) with 256-bit keys, also known as AES-256. This level of encryption is currently uncrackable and ensures the highest level of data security.
Furthermore, ExpressVPN operates under a strict no-logging policy. This means it doesn’t collect or store any user data, safeguarding your online privacy.
Speed and Performance
When it comes to speed, ExpressVPN stands out from many competitors. It minimizes speed reduction often associated with VPN use, ensuring a smooth user experience whether you’re streaming, downloading, or just browsing.
Server Locations
ExpressVPN offers a wide range of server locations with more than 3,000 servers spread across 94 countries. This vast network ensures good speeds and allows users to bypass geo-restrictions across the globe.
Ease of Use and Support
With its intuitive interface, setting up and using ExpressVPN is a breeze, even for VPN beginners. The software is compatible with various platforms, including Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Linux.
In case of issues, ExpressVPN offers 24/7 customer support. This includes live chat and email support, ensuring users get the help they need anytime.
Pricing
While ExpressVPN is slightly more expensive than some competitors, many users find the cost justified by its superior features and performance. As of my last update, ExpressVPN offers plans from around $8.32 per month for an annual subscription.
Advantages Over Other VPNs
Compared to other VPNs, ExpressVPN excels in several areas. It has one of the broadest server distributions globally, providing more opportunities to bypass geo-restrictions. Its emphasis on security, with features such as AES-256 encryption and its strict no-logs policy, places it at the forefront of VPN privacy measures. Finally, its high-speed servers make it an excellent choice for streaming and downloading.
NordVPN
NordVPN is a highly respected VPN provider, celebrated for its exceptional security measures and a vast number of servers.
Privacy and Security
NordVPN ensures top-notch security using AES-256 encryption, making your data unreadable to any outside observers. It also uses a technology called Double VPN, where your internet traffic goes through two separate VPN servers for an extra layer of security.
Speed and Performance
NordVPN provides reliable and consistent speed, enabling seamless streaming and fast downloads. The speed can vary depending on the server you’re connected to, but NordVPN’s extensive server network generally ensures good performance.
Server Locations
With more than 5400 servers across 59 countries, NordVPN offers a comprehensive global coverage. The high number of servers helps distribute user load and maintains optimal performance.
Ease of Use and Support
NordVPN boasts a user-friendly interface suitable for both beginner and experienced users. The application is compatible with various platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux.
Should you run into any difficulties, NordVPN provides 24/7 customer support through live chat and email.
Pricing
As of my last update, NordVPN pricing plans start from around $4.92 per month for a yearly subscription, making it a cost-effective option considering its robust features.
Advantages Over Other VPNs
NordVPN shines in multiple areas compared to other VPNs. Its extensive server network ensures good performance and easier access to geo-restricted content. The use of Double VPN technology offers an extra layer of security that sets NordVPN apart from many competitors. NordVPN’s audited no-logs policy also gives users increased confidence in their online privacy. The pricing structure offers value for money given the high quality of service.
CyberGhost
CyberGhost is a popular VPN provider known for its user-friendly interface and a vast number of servers worldwide.
Privacy and Security
CyberGhost uses the gold-standard AES-256 encryption to secure your data, ensuring that your online activity is private. They also provide an automatic kill switch that cuts your internet connection if your VPN connection drops, ensuring your data never leaks onto the unsecured web.
Like most top-rated VPN providers, CyberGhost operates on a strict no-logs policy, ensuring your browsing data isn’t stored or shared.
Speed and Performance
CyberGhost offers stable and reliable connections that facilitate seamless streaming and quick downloads. The speed varies depending on which server you’re connected to, but generally, users experience minimal lag when using CyberGhost.
Server Locations
One of CyberGhost’s strengths is the extensive network of servers it offers. As of my last update, they have more than 6800 servers spread across 89 countries. This broad distribution helps improve connection speeds and allows for more options to bypass geo-restrictions.
Ease of Use and Support
CyberGhost’s interface is user-friendly, making it an excellent choice for VPN newcomers. It’s compatible with various platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.
In case of any technical difficulties, CyberGhost offers 24/7 customer support through live chat and email.
Pricing
CyberGhost’s pricing plans offer good value, with costs starting at around $2.75 per month for a three-year subscription plan, as of my last update.
Advantages Over Other VPNs
Compared to other VPNs, CyberGhost stands out with its vast network of servers, making it one of the best VPNs for bypassing geo-restrictions. It’s also very user-friendly, making it a great option for those new to VPNs. The automatic kill switch is another advantageous feature, providing an extra layer of security. Additionally, its competitive pricing offers great value for the features it provides.
Surfshark
Surfshark is a growing VPN provider appreciated for its affordability and reliable performance, making it an attractive choice for many users.
Privacy and Security
Surfshark takes privacy and security seriously, providing robust AES-256-GCM encryption. This encryption method safeguards your data from potential cyber threats.
Furthermore, Surfshark operates on a strict no-logs policy, meaning your online activities and data are never recorded.
Speed and Performance
Surfshark performs well in speed tests, offering stable and speedy connections that are suitable for streaming and downloading. The speed can vary depending on the server you’re connected to, but generally, Surfshark maintains good performance.
Server Locations
Surfshark boasts a network of over 3200 servers in 65 countries. This wide range of servers helps maintain a high level of performance and allows users to bypass geographic restrictions from many different locations.
Ease of Use and Support
Surfshark is compatible with various platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. Its user-friendly interface makes it simple to use, even for those new to VPNs.
Should you encounter any problems, Surfshark provides a 24/7 customer support service through live chat and email.
Pricing
One of Surfshark’s most attractive features is its competitive pricing. As of my last update, pricing plans start from around $2.49 per month for a two-year subscription.
Advantages Over Other VPNs
Surfshark distinguishes itself from other VPN providers with its cost-effective pricing plans. Despite being relatively affordable, it doesn’t compromise on crucial features such as security, speed, and server distribution. One key feature that sets Surfshark apart is that it allows for unlimited simultaneous connections on a single account, which is rare among VPN providers. This makes it an excellent choice for households with multiple devices.
Private Internet Access (PIA)
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a reputable VPN provider known for its commitment to privacy and its vast number of servers.
Privacy and Security
PIA emphasizes privacy and security, employing AES-256 encryption to secure users’ data. Additionally, they offer an automatic kill switch feature, which cuts your internet connection if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly to prevent your data from being exposed on an unsecured network.
Speed and Performance
While PIA’s speed can vary depending on the server you’re connected to, it generally offers a good level of performance that allows for smooth streaming and downloading.
Server Locations
PIA has one of the most extensive server networks among VPN providers, with more than 29000 servers across 77 countries. This gives users a wide range of options for bypassing geographic restrictions and helps maintain good connection speeds.
Ease of Use and Support
PIA is user-friendly and compatible with various platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux, making it accessible to a broad range of users.
In case of issues, PIA offers customer support through live chat and email, available 24/7.
Pricing
PIA’s pricing plans offer good value for the features it provides, with prices starting at around $2.69 per month for a two-year subscription, as of my last update.
Advantages Over Other VPNs
PIA stands out with its exceptional number of servers, providing ample choices for users looking to bypass geographic restrictions. Their commitment to privacy and security is also commendable, with features like the automatic kill switch enhancing data protection. While its speeds may vary, the overall performance is sufficient for most online activities, including streaming and downloading. Furthermore, its competitive pricing plans make it a popular choice among users.
Comparison of Different Paid VPNs
Selecting the right VPN can be challenging due to the variety of options available. This comparison of popular paid VPNs such as ExpressVPN, NordVPN, CyberGhost, Surfshark, and Private Internet Access (PIA) will help you make an informed decision.
Privacy and Security Features
| VPN | Encryption | Kill Switch | Double VPN | No-Logs Policy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ExpressVPN | AES-256 | Yes | No | Yes |
| NordVPN | AES-256 | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| CyberGhost | AES-256 | Yes | No | Yes |
| Surfshark | AES-256 | Yes | No | Yes |
| PIA | AES-256 | Yes | No | Yes |
Speed and Performance
ExpressVPN often tops the list when it comes to speed, especially in regions close to its servers. NordVPN, with its advanced infrastructure, ensures minimal speed drops, even when using Double VPN. CyberGhost and Surfshark’s performance may be a bit inconsistent but are generally reliable. PIA’s speeds can fluctuate depending on the location and server load but remain competent.
Server Availability
NordVPN and PIA are the frontrunners in server count. With thousands of servers spread globally, users have ample choices for connectivity. ExpressVPN, while having fewer servers, covers a more extensive range of countries, which is a boon for those needing specific regional access.
User Experience and Support
All these VPNs excel in providing intuitive user interfaces across various devices. If issues arise, 24/7 support through live chat or email is standard across the board.
Cost Efficiency
While the exact prices can vary based on promotions and package duration, ExpressVPN is generally on the pricier side. Surfshark provides excellent value for its cost, especially with the added benefit of unlimited device connections. PIA, while having a vast server network, remains competitively priced.
| VPN | Approximate Monthly Cost (for a 2-year plan) |
|---|---|
| ExpressVPN | $6.67 (15-month plan) |
| NordVPN | $3.71 |
| CyberGhost | $2.75 |
| Surfshark | $2.49 |
| PIA | $2.69 |
H4 Standout Features
- ExpressVPN: Renowned for its lightning-fast speed and widespread server locations.
- NordVPN: Offers advanced security features such as Double VPN and Onion over VPN.
- CyberGhost: Provides specialized servers for tasks like streaming or torrenting.
- Surfshark: Unlimited simultaneous device connections, a rarity in the VPN world.
- PIA: Boasts one of the most extensive server networks in the industry.