Best VPNs for Speed, Privacy & Streaming (2025)
Lab-tested VPN picks for speed, privacy and streaming.
Our independent reviews reveal the best VPNs 2025 for performance, security and real-world value.
No fluff—just data to help you choose what truly works for you.
Looking for the best VPNs in 2025? Our lab tests compare speed, privacy and streaming so you can pick the best VPNs for your needs.
Top 3 Best VPNs 2025 — TL;DR
VPN #1 — Fastest overall
From $1.99 / month
- Best speed in WireGuard tests
- Streams Netflix/Hulu in 4K
- No-logs, audited; kill switch OK
- Apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android
Pros
- ✔ Very fast on WireGuard
- ✔ Stable 4k streaming
- ✔ Clean, reliable apps
Cons
- ✖ Some locations slower at peak hours
- ✖ Best prices on long plans
VPN #2 — Best for streaming
From $2.99 / month
- Unblocks Netflix, Prime, Disney+
- SmartDNS for TVs
- No-logs; great apps UX
- 24/7 live chat
Pros
- ✔ Unblocks Netflix, Prime, Disney+ consistently
- ✔ SmartDNS works on TVs and consoles
- ✔ Easy apps and quick setup
Cons
- ✖ Peak-hour speeds can vary by region
- ✖ Best discounts on multi-year plans
VPN #3 — Best value
From $3.45 / month
- Solid speeds for daily use
- WireGuard + kill switch
- 10+ devices allowed
- Cheap long-term plans
Pros
- ✔ Great price-to-performance
- ✔ WireGuard + reliable kill switch
- ✔ Generous device allowance
Cons
- ✖ Fewer advanced features than top rivals
- ✖ Best pricing requires longer plans
How we test the best VPNs in 2025
Our testing process aligns with independent security standards such as the NIST Cybersecurity Framework.
We run repeatable lab tests, document every step, and re-test when vendors change apps or networks. Benchmarks focus on speed, privacy and real streaming access.
- Speed: WireGuard/OpenVPN on multiple servers and times of day.
- Leaks: DNS, WebRTC and IPv6 + kill-switch stability.
- Streaming: Netflix, Prime, Disney+ and regional catalogs.
- Privacy: logging policy, jurisdiction and third-party audits.
- Security: encryption/protocols, app permissions and updates.
- Value: real monthly price, device limits and refund terms.
| Provider | Features | Speed | Devices | Price | Visit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | Military-grade AES-256 encryption, Meshnet, Threat Protection | 960 Mbps | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux | From $3.99/mo | Visit NordVPN |
| Surfshark | Unlimited devices, CleanWeb ad blocker, 2FA login | 850 Mbps | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux | From $2.49/mo | Visit Surfshark |
| ExpressVPN | TrustedServer tech, Lightway protocol, 24/7 support | 890 Mbps | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux | From $6.67/mo | Visit ExpressVPN |
| ProtonVPN | Open-source, Secure Core, no logs | 740 Mbps | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux | From $4.99/mo | Visit ProtonVPN |
Ready to get protected?
Pick our #1 lab-tested VPN for speed, privacy and streaming.