Best 6 VPN providers in 2026

Looking for the best VPN to protect your privacy, unlock global streaming, and stay fast online? Explore top VPN providers, compare security, speed, pricing, and features, and find the perfect option for your needs today.

In 2026, Virtual Private Networks or VPNs are still really important for keeping our activities private and secure. We need VPNs to stay safe when we are working from home or when we use Wi-Fi to send sensitive information. VPNs are also useful when we want to watch movies and sports from other countries. 

A good Virtual Private Network will make sure that our internet activities are encrypted and anonymous. Because there are many cyberattacks and data breaches happening, using a Virtual Private Network is not something we can choose to do; it is something we have to do to stay safe online. Virtual Private Networks are a part of our online safety.

This guide is about the Virtual Private Network providers in 2026. It helps you pick the Virtual Private Network that's right for you. Some Virtual Private Networks are really good at keeping your information private. Other Virtual Private Networks are great for streaming movies and videos fast.

You will find reviews of Virtual Private Networks and comparisons of their prices. There are also tips to help you choose a Virtual Private Network that's what you want. You might want a Virtual Private Network that's really fast or one that is very secure. Maybe you want a Virtual Private Network that can do a lot of things.

What is a VPN and why is it Important?

A Virtual Private Network is a service that helps you browse the internet safely. It does this by sending your internet connection through a server that keeps everything secret. This means that people cannot see your address on the internet, so you can do things online without anyone knowing it is you.

A Virtual Private Network also keeps your information safe by scrambling it up. This stops people from getting to your important things like passwords and banking information. Even the people who provide your internet cannot see what you are doing when you use a Virtual Private Network. This is really good because it means that your personal messages and other sensitive information are protected. A Virtual Private Network is a way to use the internet.

Key VPN Use Cases

When you are on the internet, online Privacy Protection is very important. Virtual Private Networks, or VPNs for short, help keep you safe. They hide what you do online and where you are. It is tough for websites, advertisers, and other people to see what you are doing on the internet. This means that websites, advertisers, and third parties cannot easily track what you do online. VPNs make it harder for them to follow your Online Privacy activity.

Getting around location blocks is a deal. You can use a Virtual Private Network to watch things that're not available where you live. For example, you can watch Netflix libraries that're only available in other countries. You can also use a Virtual Private Network to access streaming services or websites that're only available in certain areas. This is really useful for people who want to watch their shows or visit websites that are not available in their country. With a Virtual Private Network, you can do all these things and more, like access region websites that you could not access before.

When you are using Wi-Fi at places like cafés, airports, or hotels, you need to be careful. Public Wi-Fi is not very safe. That is why you should use a Virtual Private Network, or VPN for short, to keep your information safe. The VPN will protect your data from people who might try to steal it. These people are called hackers. They can cause a lot of trouble. 

They might try to intercept the things you do online when you are using Wi-Fi. If you have a VPN, it will be like a shield for your data. The VPN will keep your data safe when you are connected to networks. This way, you can use the internet at places without worrying about hackers getting your information. You can use the internet at cafés, airports, or hotels. Your data will be safe because of the VPN.

Security is really important for Sensitive Communications. For people who work from home or in remote locations, Virtual Private Networks provide a safe way for them to talk about private business matters, share files, and use cloud services. Virtual Private Networks are very useful for this kind of thing. They make sure that Sensitive Communications are protected.

When you are online in 2026, you have to deal with a lot of cyber threats and strict rules about privacy. There are also a lot of limits on what you can see. So, picking the Virtual Private Network or VPN is not just about keeping your information private. It is about making sure your internet connection is fast, works, and is secure. This way, you can use the internet for your job to have fun, or for things without any problems. You want your online experience to be safe, private, and to work. Choosing the VPN is important for this. The right VPN will help you balance speed, reliability, and security.

Quick Picks: Best VPNs for Different Needs

Here’s a quick snapshot of top VPN choices across common use cases:

• Best Overall: Mysterium VPN is a decentralized node-based service with a unique architecture.
• Best Budget & Unlimited Devices: Surfshark excellent value with robust performance.
• Best for Privacy Enthusiasts: Proton VPN has a strong audit history and transparency.
• Best for Premium Users: ExpressVPN offers reliable security and consistent performance.
• Best for Advanced Customization: Private Internet Access has powerful settings and customization.
• Innovative Network Model: NordVPN offers a great balance of privacy, speed, and streaming.

Best VPN Providers in 2026

Mysterium VPN 

Mysterium VPN is a privacy-focused service built on a decentralized network with nodes in over 100 countries, making VPN detection much harder by providing access to multiple IP addresses. It supports secure protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN and includes essential safety features such as a kill switch and DNS leak protection to keep connections secure at all times. Mysterium follows a strict no-logs policy and does not store or track user activity. It works across major platforms including iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, browser extensions, and even smart TVs, gaming consoles, and IoT devices. Additionally, Mysterium VPN allows smooth streaming on BBC iPlayer, enabling access to UK content from anywhere.

Pros

• The decentralized network model offers enhanced anonymity and diverse residential IPs.
• Modern security features include WireGuard protocol, DNS leak protection, and an automatic kill switch.
• Wide device compatibility ,including desktops, mobiles, and browsers.
• Strict no-logs policy and GDPR compliance for privacy assurance.
• Supports streaming platforms like BBC iPlayer for secure global access

Cons

• Decentralized architecture can result in variable speeds depending on node load and location.
• Some advanced options (like city-level control) are less intuitive for beginners.
• Does not include built-in malware blocking on all plans.
   

Pricing:

Mysterium VPN offers multiple plans with a 7-day money-back guarantee:

Monthly Plans:

• Basic: $7.99/month - protects up to 6 devices with access to servers across 57+ countries.
• Plus: $12.99/month - protects up to 10 devices with access to 100+ countries and 7,500+ residential IPs.
• Pro: $17.99/month - protects up to 15 devices with the fullest feature set.

Annual & Multi-Year Plans:

• 1-Year Basic: ~ $3.33/month (billed annually).
• 2-Year Basic: ~ $2.49/month (best long-term value).
• Upgraded tiers (Plus and Pro) are also available with similar multi-year discounts.

All plans include modern VPN protocols, DNS leak protection, a kill switch, and access to global servers.

NordVPN 

NordVPN is a top choice for users who want strong online privacy, security, speed, and ease of use. It protects users with advanced encryption, a kill switch, and the NordLynx protocol based on WireGuard for fast, secure connections. Beyond basic VPN features, NordVPN includes Threat Protection Pro to block ads, trackers, malware, and dangerous websites, along with split tunneling to choose which apps use the VPN. 

NordVPN also offers Meshnet for building private networks between trustworthy devices while bypassing VPN restrictions. NordVPN is versatile in Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Smart TVs, routers, browser extensions, etc., while its vast server network spans thousands of servers to let users have access to content over the globe. Among the additional tools available is an alert system – the Dark Web Monitor, where users are alerted when their account details are being compromised.

Pros

• Robust security features including secure protocols (NordLynx and OpenVPN), kill switch, and split tunneling.
• Advanced extras like Threat Protection Pro™, Meshnet, Dark Web Monitor, and Dedicated IP options.
• Strong streaming support and no bandwidth limits for watching shows and sports securely anywhere.
• Wide device compatibility, including desktop, mobile, router, and browser extensions.
• Easy-to-use interface with intuitive apps for all major platforms.

Cons

• Can feel overwhelming for beginners due to the range of advanced features.
• Premium features like Threat Protection Pro™ may require higher-tier plans.

Pricing

NordVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, giving you risk-free access across all plans:

Subscription Tiers:

• Basic: Core VPN features with secure, high-speed connections and protection for up to 10 devices.
• Plus: Adds extras such as Threat Protection Pro™, ad and tracker blocker, and a cross-platform password manager.
• Complete: Includes everything from Plus plus encrypted cloud storage and additional identity protection tools.
• Prime (availability may vary by region): Adds advanced identity theft protection and extended cybersecurity tools.

Typical Price Range:

• Monthly: Premium tier options around mid-teens per month on a month-to-month basis.
• 1-Year Plan: More economical on annual billing, with significantly lower per-month rates.
• 2-Year Plan: Best long-term value with lowest per-month cost and frequent promotions included.

All plans include access to the NordVPN network, secure encryption, kill switch, and 24/7 customer support.

Surfshark 

Surfshark is a strong VPN choice for users who want privacy, solid security, and great value, especially for protecting multiple devices at once. It offers easy-to-use apps for computers, phones, and routers with one-click protection and strong encryption to keep browsing private. Surfshark runs thousands of servers in 100+ countries, delivering stable connections suitable for everyday browsing and HD or 4K streaming. 

Outstanding features include the Dynamic MultiHop (Double VPN), the NoBorders mode for restricted networks, a robust kill switch, and CleanWeb, which is used to block ads, trackers, and malicious websites. Providing unlimited simultaneous connections under one subscription, Surfshark helps you secure every device you have at a cost that is essentially a result of this.

Pros

• Unlimited simultaneous connections so you can secure all your devices with one subscription.
• Advanced security features like Dynamic MultiHop, Obfuscated servers (Camouflage Mode), Kill Switch, and CleanWeb.
• Tools like split tunneling (Bypasser) and IP Rotator to customize privacy and performance.
• Broad server network with high-speed connections in 100+ countries.
• No-logs policy and user-friendly interface.

Cons

• Some advanced customization options can be overwhelming for complete beginners.
• Manual setup may be required for certain devices like gaming consoles or non-VPN-compatible smart TVs.

Pricing

Surfshark offers flexible subscription options with a 30-day money-back guarantee:

Subscription Plans:

• Monthly Plan: Regular month-to-month billing highest per-month cost.
• 1-Year Plan: Discounted annual billing for better value.
• 2-Year Plan: Best long-term value with the lowest per-month cost.

Surfshark also offers bundled options that include additional cybersecurity tools like antivirus and identity protection features for enhanced online security.

All plans include access to the full Surfshark VPN network, unlimited device connections, industry-standard encryption, and 24/7 customer support.

Proton VPN 

Proton VPN is a privacy-focused VPN service designed to keep users safe online through strong encryption and a strict no-logs policy. It supports up to 10 devices on a single account, making it easy to stay protected at home or on the go. 

ProtonVPN offers both a free plan for basic privacy needs and paid plans that might provide faster speeds, more server networks, malware and ad blocking capabilities, and native support for selective tunneling. ProtonVPN is natively compatible for use in Windows, macOS, Google's Android, and Apple's iOS, and an official Linux app is available; it also allows users to set up a custom OpenVPN client on their respective router to secure all devices on a home network.

Pros

• Strong privacy protections with a strict no-logs policy and secure protocols.
• Free plan available with unlimited data and basic privacy features.
• Paid plans include thousands of servers in many countries and fast connection speeds.
• Advanced security tools like ad and malware blocking, split tunneling, and Secure Core routing.
• Supports streaming and torrenting on multiple devices simultaneously.

Cons

• The free tier has limited speed and access compared to paid plans.
• Some advanced features, like split tunneling, are only available on specific platforms.

Pricing

Proton VPN offers a free plan and two main paid options, each backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee:

Free Plan:

• Free forever with no credit card required.
• Connect 1 device with a medium VPN speed.
• Access servers in a small number of countries with unlimited data.

VPN Plus:

• Designed for secure, high-speed VPN use on up to 10 devices.
• Includes access to thousands of servers in 120+ countries.
• Features malware and ad blocking, split tunneling, P2P support, Secure Core routing, and streaming capabilities.

Proton Unlimited:

• All Proton VPN Plus features plus additional premium Proton services bundled together (mail, drive, calendar, and password manager features).
• Ideal for users who want an integrated privacy suite across multiple services.

Pricing varies based on billing frequency (monthly, yearly, or multi-year), with longer plans offering significantly lower per-month costs than monthly billing.

ExpressVPN 

ExpressVPN is a trusted VPN known for strong privacy, fast speeds, and easy-to-use apps. It uses secure protocols and TrustedServer technology with RAM-only servers, ensuring no data is stored. With servers in 105+ countries, ExpressVPN allows reliable access to global websites and streaming services.

ExpressVPN has three plans: Basic, Premium, and Ultimate; all come with a strict no-logging policy and a 30-day money-back guarantee. The plans above Premium bring some more features, for example, identity monitoring, eSIM data, and a password manager.

Pros

• Strong security and privacy: TrustedServer infrastructure with RAM-only servers and a strict no-logs policy.
• Fast and reliable: Proprietary Lightway protocol delivers strong performance for streaming, browsing, and downloads.
• Global coverage: Servers in 105+ countries for broad content access and minimal congestion.
• Flexible plans: Choose between Basic, Advanced, and Pro tiers with additional features like password manager and identity tools.
• Up to 14 concurrent device connections on higher tiers, ideal for families and multi-device households.
• 30-day money-back guarantee for risk-free testing.

Cons

• Can be more expensive than some other VPN options, especially at month-to-month pricing.
• Advanced features like identity monitoring or dedicated IP are only available on higher-tier plans.

Pricing

ExpressVPN now offers three membership plans tailored to different needs, all backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee:

Basic Plan:

• Core VPN protection with fast, secure connections.
• Protect up to 10 devices simultaneously.
• Includes strong encryption and global server access.
• Great for general VPN use like privacy, streaming, and browsing.

Advanced Plan:

• Includes everything in Basic, plus:
  • Built-in password manager.
  • Advanced protection against ads, trackers, and malicious sites.
  • Identity monitoring with fraud alerts and restoration support.
  • Up to 12 simultaneous devices.
  • 3 days of unlimited eSIM data.

Pro Plan:

• Includes everything in Advanced, plus:
  • Dedicated IP address at no extra cost.
  • Up to 14 simultaneous devices.
  • 5 days of unlimited eSIM data.
  • Monthly credit reports and data removal services for enhanced identity protection.

Price Notes:

• All plans can be billed monthly, annually, or on a multi-year term with discounts on longer commitments.
• Longer billing cycles significantly reduce the monthly cost compared to monthly pricing.

Private Internet Access (PIA)

Private Internet Access (PIA) is a highly customizable VPN ideal for users who want full control over their privacy and security. It protects internet traffic with strong encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and RAM-only servers, ensuring no data is stored. PIA supports WireGuard and OpenVPN, operates servers in 90+ countries, and works across Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, and routers. 

Key features include split tunneling, a kill switch, and MACE for blocking ads, trackers, and malware. With unlimited simultaneous connections, one subscription can secure all your devices at home and on the go.

Pros

• Highly customizable VPN with advanced settings for privacy and performance.
• Unlimited simultaneous connections under one subscription.
• Large global server network with servers in 91+ countries.
• Built-in tools like split tunneling, kill switch, and ad/tracker blocking (MACE).
• Strict no-logs policy and encrypted data protection across all devices.

Cons

• Interface and advanced settings may be overwhelming for complete beginners.
• Optional add-ons like antivirus or dedicated IP cost extra on top of the base subscription.

Pricing

PIA offers straightforward pricing with a 30-day money-back guarantee included on all plans:

Subscription Options:

• Monthly Plan: $11.95 per month -billed monthly.
• 1-Year Plan: $3.33 per month -billed annually at $39.95.
• 3-Year Plan + Free Months: ~$1.98–$2.03 per month -billed at $79 for three years (includes extra months free).

All plans come with the same core VPN features, including high-speed servers, unlimited connections, and access to the global network. Users can also choose optional add-ons such as a Dedicated IP address for more stable access to certain services, or PIA’s Antivirus for enhanced device protection, for an additional cost.

How to Choose the Best VPN in 2026

Security & Privacy

When choosing a Virtual Private Network, security should be the top priority. A reliable VPN should use strong encryption such as AES-256 and support modern, secure protocols. It’s also important to choose a provider with a strict no-logs policy, meaning it does not track or store your online activity. Extra security features, such as RAM-only servers that erase all data on every restart, further protect your privacy and reduce the risk of data exposure. Since a VPN’s main purpose is to keep you safe online, strong security measures are essential.

Speed & Reliability

A Virtual Private Network is only useful if it provides stable and reliable connections. Good VPN providers maintain high-quality servers to ensure strong performance and minimal speed loss, even when connecting to distant locations. Modern protocols improve speeds without sacrificing security. When choosing a VPN, it’s important to consider user reviews and performance tests to make sure it’s dependable for streaming, gaming, and working from home.

Server Locations

The number of servers and their locations play a major role in how well a VPN performs. A wide server network allows access to more region-restricted content and helps improve speeds by letting users connect to nearby locations. Having servers in many countries also reduces congestion when many people are online at the same time, resulting in more stable and reliable connections. Overall, a VPN with broad global server coverage offers better performance and flexibility.

Streaming Support 

If you want to stream shows, movies, or sports from other countries, you need a VPN that can reliably bypass streaming restrictions. Many platforms try to block VPN users, so it’s important to choose a service that works well with Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and similar platforms. VPNs with streaming-optimized servers are especially helpful, as they can improve loading times and deliver smoother, higher-quality video.

Device Compatibility

When choosing a Virtual Private Network, it’s important to consider which devices you want to protect and whether the VPN supports your preferred platforms. Good VPN providers offer apps for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and even home routers. You should also check how many devices can be connected at the same time, as some VPNs allow unlimited connections while others limit you to five or ten devices per subscription.

Customer Support & Refund Policy 

When choosing a VPN provider, reliable customer support is essential. Good support helps with setup, troubleshooting, and fixing connection or configuration issues. It’s also important to look for a clear refund or money-back policy, which allows you to try the VPN without financial risk. Providers that offer 24/7 live chat support and detailed setup guides are usually easier to work with. Strong customer support combined with a fair refund policy ensures you can test the service confidently and get help whenever you need it.

Key Features to Compare Across VPNs

• Encryption Protocols: WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2
• No-Log Policies & Audits
• Kill Switch & Leak Protection
• Server Coverage & Speed
• Streaming & Torrent Support
• Price and Value