Launched in 2012, NordVPN has built a reputation for being one of the most secure VPNs on the market. With over 6,300 servers across 111 countries, it offers excellent speed, reliability, and versatility. NordVPN goes beyond standard encryption by offering Double VPN (routing traffic through two servers for extra security) and Onion Over VPN for advanced privacy. It also provides Meshnet, a unique feature for secure device-to-device connections. NordVPN is highly recommended for both streaming and advanced security users.
Introduction
In today’s digital world, where online privacy, security, and unrestricted internet access are more important than ever, choosing the right Virtual Private Network (VPN) can make all the difference. A VPN not only protects your sensitive data from hackers and surveillance but also helps you bypass geo-restrictions, enjoy streaming platforms without limitations, and browse the internet with peace of mind.
Among the many VPNs available in the market, a handful stand out for their reliability, performance, and feature-rich services. ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access (PIA) are five of the most popular and trusted VPN providers globally, each offering unique strengths tailored to different user needs. From lightning-fast speeds and military-grade encryption to affordability and beginner-friendly interfaces, these VPNs cover all aspects of secure browsing.
Whether you’re a streaming enthusiast, a frequent traveler looking to bypass censorship, a gamer seeking lag-free connections, or simply someone who values online privacy, these VPNs provide the right balance of security, speed, and convenience. In the following sections, we’ll dive deep into their features, benefits, and pros & cons to help you make an informed decision about which VPN suits your needs best.
1
Express VPN
Founded in 2009, ExpressVPN has consistently ranked among the top VPN providers worldwide. It boasts servers in over 105 countries, making it an excellent choice for bypassing geo-restrictions and ensuring a stable connection. Its apps are available for all major platforms including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and even routers. Beyond speed and performance, ExpressVPN prioritizes user privacy with a strict no-logs policy and independent third-party audits. It’s ideal for streaming, torrenting, gaming, and secure browsing.
A+
Overall Grade
4.9
10K+
Review
- Features
3,000+ servers across 105+ countries
AES-256-bit encryption for maximum security
TrustedServer technology (RAM-only servers, no data retention)
Kill switch and split tunneling
Works with Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer
24/7 customer support with live chat
- Benefit
Consistently fast speeds worldwide
Strong privacy protection backed by audits
Works seamlessly on multiple devices
Excellent for streaming and torrenting
Easy-to-use apps with a simple interface
Pros :
✔ Extremely fast and reliable connections
✔ Top-tier security and privacy
✔ Wide global server coverage
✔ Great for streaming services
Cons :
✘ Slightly more expensive than competitors
✘ Limited advanced customization for tech-savvy users
2
Nord VPN
A-
Overall Grade
4.7
7.5K+
Review
- Features
6,300+ servers across 111 countries
AES-256 encryption with Double VPN & Onion Over VPN
Threat Protection (blocks ads, trackers, malware)
Strict no-logs policy, audited by PwC
Meshnet for secure connections between devices
Dedicated IP option available
- Benefit
Top-level encryption and unique privacy tools
Fast and stable speeds for streaming and gaming
Excellent for bypassing censorship and firewalls
User-friendly apps across all platforms
Extra features like ad-blocking and malware protection
Pros :
✔ Advanced security features (Double VPN, Onion Over VPN)
✔ Massive server network with excellent global reach
✔ Affordable long-term pricing plans
✔ Strong track record of privacy and independent audits
Cons :
✘ Desktop apps can feel slightly cluttered
✘ Some advanced features may be overwhelming for beginners
3
Surfshark
Since its launch in 2018, Surfshark has rapidly gained popularity due to its combination of affordability, strong privacy protections, and advanced tools. It supports unlimited simultaneous connections, making it perfect for families or users with multiple devices. Surfshark offers more than just a VPN — with features like CleanWeb (ad-blocking), Camouflage Mode (bypassing censorship), and MultiHop (extra secure double server routing), it goes beyond traditional VPNs. It’s widely used for streaming, torrenting, and bypassing internet restrictions.
B+
Overall Grade
4.5
8K+
Review
- Features
3,200+ servers in 100+ countries
AES-256 encryption with WireGuard protocol
Unlimited simultaneous device connections
CleanWeb for blocking ads and trackers
MultiHop for double-layered security
NoBorders mode for restricted regions
- Benefit
Very budget-friendly with premium features
Protects all devices with a single account
Excellent speeds with WireGuard protocol
Works reliably for streaming and torrenting
Advanced features for privacy and censorship bypass
Pros :
✔ Unlimited device connections
✔ Great value for money
✔ User-friendly apps and browser extensions
✔ Strong security and privacy protections
Cons :
✘ Smaller server network compared to NordVPN or ExpressVPN
✘ Some advanced features require setup knowledge
4
CyberGhost
CyberGhost was founded in 2011 and has grown into one of the biggest VPNs in terms of server coverage. With more than 11,600 servers in 100 countries, it offers fast and reliable connections for streaming, gaming, and browsing. CyberGhost is especially popular with users who want quick access to streaming platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu, thanks to its dedicated streaming servers. Its apps are simple, making it a beginner-friendly option without compromising on security.
B-
Overall Grade
4.3
8.5K+
Review
- Features
11,600+ servers in 100 countries
AES-256-bit encryption
Kill switch and DNS leak protection
Dedicated servers optimized for streaming and torrenting
Strict no-logs policy
24/7 live chat support
- Benefit
One of the largest server networks
Optimized servers for popular streaming platforms
Easy-to-use apps ideal for beginners
Affordable long-term pricing plans
Strong privacy and security standards
Pros :
✔ Massive global server coverage
✔ Great for streaming with specialized servers
✔ Beginner-friendly apps
✔ Affordable pricing
Cons :
✘ Not as fast as ExpressVPN or NordVPN
✘ Advanced users may find limited customization options
5
Private Internet Access (PIA)
Launched in 2010, PIA has built a reputation for being one of the most transparent VPN providers, with open-source apps and customizable settings. It boasts one of the largest VPN server networks, covering 91 countries with thousands of servers. PIA allows users to fine-tune their VPN experience with adjustable encryption settings, making it highly versatile. It supports torrenting, streaming, and secure browsing while maintaining a strict no-logs policy that has been proven in court.
C+
Overall Grade
4.0
6.5K+
Review
- Features
Thousands of servers in 91 countries
Adjustable encryption (AES-128 or AES-256)
Open-source apps for transparency
Built-in ad, tracker, and malware blocker (MACE)
Works with Netflix, Disney+, and more
Supports up to 10 devices simultaneously
- Benefit
Highly affordable with flexible plans
Transparency through open-source software
Huge server network for global coverage
Reliable for streaming and torrenting
Customizable security options
Pros :
✔ Very affordable pricing
✔ Open-source apps for trust and transparency
✔ Large server network
✔ Adjustable encryption and advanced features
Cons :
✘ Speeds can be inconsistent on distant servers
✘ Interface may not be as beginner-friendly as others
Summary Conclusion
Choosing the right VPN comes down to balancing your needs for speed, security, streaming, affordability, and ease of use. Each of the five VPNs reviewed—ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, CyberGhost, and PIA—brings its own unique advantages to the table, making them leaders in the VPN industry.
ExpressVPN is the go-to choice for users who prioritize speed, reliability, and premium-level security. It’s slightly more expensive, but it excels at streaming, torrenting, and bypassing geo-restrictions with ease.
NordVPN stands out with its advanced security features like Double VPN and Threat Protection, making it ideal for privacy-focused users who still want excellent speeds and versatility.
Surfshark offers unbeatable value with unlimited device connections and advanced tools like MultiHop, making it a perfect budget-friendly option for families or multi-device users.
CyberGhost shines with its user-friendly design and dedicated streaming servers, making it a great pick for beginners or those who mainly want hassle-free access to their favorite platforms.
Private Internet Access (PIA) delivers affordability, transparency, and customization, with its open-source apps and massive server network appealing to advanced users and budget-conscious customers alike.
In the end, there is no one-size-fits-all solution—your choice depends on whether you value top-tier performance (ExpressVPN), advanced security (NordVPN), unlimited device coverage (Surfshark), streaming simplicity (CyberGhost), or transparency and affordability (PIA).
No matter which one you choose, all five VPNs provide strong protection, privacy, and freedom online—ensuring you stay safe while unlocking the full potential of the internet.