A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through a remote server, helping protect your privacy on public networks and access region-restricted content. This guide compares five leading VPN providers: NordVPN, SurfShark, ExpressVPN, Proton VPN, and CyberGhost. For a deeper look at two popular options, see our NordVPN vs SurfShark comparison. For a framework on evaluating VPNs, see How to Choose a VPN.

Quick Recommendations

  • Best overall: NordVPN — Large network, strong security, good performance
  • Best value: SurfShark — Unlimited devices, competitive pricing
  • Best for speed: ExpressVPN — Reliable performance, simple interface
  • Best for beginners: CyberGhost — Easy setup, clear server categories
  • Best for privacy focus: ProtonVPN — Swiss-based, free tier available

Comparison Table

VPN Devices Paid From Free Tier
NordVPN6~$3/mo (2yr)No
SurfSharkUnlimited~$2.50/mo (2yr)No
ExpressVPN5~$6.67/mo (1yr)No
CyberGhost7~$2.25/mo (2yr)No
ProtonVPN10~$4/moYes (limited)

Individual Product Reviews

1. NordVPN

Best overall VPN

NordVPN has been a market leader since 2012, with a large server network spanning 60+ countries. It offers strong encryption (AES-256), WireGuard support, and specialty servers for streaming, P2P, and obfuscation. Threat Protection blocks ads and malware. The Panama-based company has undergone independent security audits.

The 6-device limit may be restrictive for households with many devices. Two-year plans offer the best value. NordVPN consistently performs well in speed tests and reliably unblocks major streaming services. For most users who don't need unlimited devices, it's a top choice.

Visit NordVPN

Pros

  • Large server network
  • Specialty servers (obfuscated, P2P, double VPN)
  • Threat Protection (ad/malware blocking)
  • Independent security audits

Cons

  • 6 device limit
  • Higher price on short-term plans

2. SurfShark

Best value and unlimited devices

SurfShark stands out with unlimited simultaneous connections—one subscription covers your entire household. Based in the Netherlands, it offers a similar feature set to NordVPN: kill switch, split tunneling, CleanWeb ad blocking, and multi-hop connections. The server network spans 100+ countries.

Pricing is often lower than NordVPN on multi-year plans, making it attractive for budget-conscious users. Performance is solid for streaming and browsing. The interface is clean and easy to use. For families or users with many devices, SurfShark is hard to beat on value.

Visit SurfShark

Pros

  • Unlimited connections
  • Competitive pricing on long plans
  • 100+ countries
  • Good for families

Cons

  • Smaller server network than NordVPN
  • Fewer specialty server options

3. ExpressVPN

Best for speed and reliability

ExpressVPN is known for consistent performance and a simple, polished interface. It uses the Lightway protocol (in addition to OpenVPN and IKEv2) for fast connections. The British Virgin Islands base offers favorable privacy laws. ExpressVPN reliably unblocks streaming services and performs well in independent speed tests.

The main drawback is price—ExpressVPN is typically the most expensive of the five. The 5-device limit is adequate for most individuals. If you prioritize reliability and are willing to pay a premium, ExpressVPN delivers. For budget-focused users, NordVPN or SurfShark offer better value.

Visit ExpressVPN

Pros

  • Reliable, consistent performance
  • Simple, polished interface
  • Lightway protocol for speed
  • Strong streaming unblocking

Cons

  • Highest price point
  • 5 device limit

4. Proton VPN

Best for privacy focus and free tier

Proton VPN comes from the makers of Proton Mail and emphasizes privacy. Based in Switzerland, it benefits from strong privacy laws. The free tier allows unlimited data with some server and speed limitations—unusual among premium VPNs. Paid plans unlock full speed, more servers, and features like Secure Core (multi-hop) and streaming support.

The interface is clean and the company has a strong transparency record. For users who want to try a VPN without paying, or who prioritize privacy-first providers, Proton VPN is an excellent choice. The free tier is genuinely useful for basic protection.

Visit Proton VPN

Pros

  • Free tier with unlimited data
  • Swiss-based, strong privacy laws
  • Secure Core multi-hop
  • Transparent, audited

Cons

  • Free tier has limited servers
  • Paid plans mid-range on price

5. CyberGhost

Best for beginners

CyberGhost offers an easy-to-use interface with clear server categories: streaming, torrenting, gaming. Romania-based, it has a no-logs policy and supports WireGuard. The 7-device limit is generous. Long-term plans are very affordable—often among the lowest in the market.

The interface guides beginners with purpose-labeled servers. Performance is solid for most use cases. CyberGhost may not have the advanced features of NordVPN or ExpressVPN, but for users who want simple, affordable protection, it's a strong choice.

Visit CyberGhost

Pros

  • Easy setup, clear server categories
  • 7 simultaneous connections
  • Very affordable long-term plans
  • Good for streaming

Cons

  • Fewer advanced features
  • Smaller brand presence than top rivals

Pricing Overview

NordVPN and SurfShark typically offer two-year plans around $3–4/month. ExpressVPN is the most expensive at roughly $6.67/month on annual plans. Proton VPN's paid plans start around $4/month; the free tier has no time limit. CyberGhost often has the lowest long-term pricing. Most offer money-back guarantees—use them to test before committing. Our article VPN vs Proxy: What's the Difference? explains when a VPN is the right choice.

Who Each Product Is Best For

  • NordVPN: Users who want a proven provider with extensive features and don't need more than 6 devices.
  • SurfShark: Families and users with many devices who want strong value.
  • ExpressVPN: Users who prioritize reliability and speed and are willing to pay a premium.
  • Proton VPN: Privacy-focused users and anyone wanting a usable free tier.
  • CyberGhost: Beginners and budget-conscious users who want simple, affordable protection.

How We Evaluated

We assessed each VPN on encryption standards, no-logs policies, and server coverage. We tested connection speeds from multiple locations and verified streaming unblocking for major services. Jurisdiction and independent audits were important factors, as were device limits and the quality of desktop and mobile apps. We prioritized providers with kill switches, split tunneling, and clear documentation.

For a framework on evaluating VPNs, see our How to Choose a VPN guide. For a detailed comparison of two top options, read NordVPN vs SurfShark.

When to Use a VPN

A VPN is most valuable on public Wi-Fi networks, where traffic can be intercepted. It also helps when accessing region-restricted content or when you want to hide your browsing from your ISP. For everyday home browsing on a trusted network, a VPN is optional. Use money-back guarantees to test before committing to long-term plans.

Conclusion

NordVPN and SurfShark lead on value and features. ExpressVPN delivers for those who prioritize performance. CyberGhost suits beginners. Proton VPN stands out for its free tier and privacy-first approach. Most offer money-back guarantees—use them to test before committing to a long-term plan.