UPDATE: Jan. 25, 2024, 5:00 a.m. EST We're in the process of overhauling our VPN coverage based on stricter criteria and additional hands-on testing, and as such, we have some new top picks. Our guide to the best VPNs will continue to evolve as we update our existing reviews and try more services.
A virtual private network (VPN) is a service that creates an encrypted connection between your device and a private, remote server, which hides your true IP address and secures your online activity.
The best VPNs aren't the end-all, be-all of virtual privacy and won't make you totally anonymous on the web, as their providers can still see what you're getting up to online when you're using their servers. (Plus, they can't shield you from malware and other kinds of online threats.) That said, VPNs can help you avoid the snooping eyes of your internet service provider (ISP) and Google, which track your clicks for marketing purposes. VPNs are also useful for spoofing your location, which will allow you to bypass geo-restrictions on content that's not available in your physical location.
Deciding which VPN to trust with your privacy and your money can be tough, especially if you're not familiar with the technology, which is why we're testing (and re-testing) a slew of popular VPN services. Keep reading for a rundown of the best VPNs we've tried so far.
Note: Prices for most VPN providers' long-term plans change frequently. The rates below were accurate at the time of publication.
Best VPN deals this week
- ProtonVPN — PCMag Exclusive: $3.99 Per Month (60% Off 24-Months Plan)
- NordVPN — New Year's Deal: $3.39 Per Month (Up to 67% Off 2-Year Plan)
- Surfshark VPN — $1.99 Per Month + 4-Months Free (86% Off 2-Year Plan)
- Private Internet Access VPN — $2.19 Per Month + 2-Months Free (82% Off 2-Year Plan)
- ExpressVPN — $6.67 Per Month 1-Year Plan + 3-Months Free + 1-Year Free Backblaze
- Norton Secure VPN — $39.99 Per Year for 5-Devices (50% Off 1-Year Plan)
via Zero Tech Blog