The Best VPNs of 2026: Expert Tested and Ranked

In today’s digital world, protecting your online privacy and security is more critical than ever. Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have become essential tools for safeguarding your internet traffic, masking your IP address, and adding an extra layer of security that keeps your communications private. Beyond security, VPNs can help you bypass location-based restrictions, access geo-blocked streaming content, and prevent marketers from tracking and profiling you.

At ZDNET, we’ve rigorously tested and analyzed the top VPN services to bring you our definitive guide for 2026. Our expert team has decades of experience in the VPN arena, conducting frequent real-world speed tests and evaluating services based on server networks, security features, pricing, usability, and other crucial factors.

Our Top VPN Picks for 2026

🏆 NordVPN – Best Overall VPN

Price: Starting at $2.69/month (two-year plan)

NordVPN continues to dominate as our top pick for 2026, offering the complete package: fast speeds, stable connections, an expansive server network spanning 126 countries, and excellent streaming capabilities. It’s user-friendly across all major platforms and supports 10 simultaneous connections.

Why we love it:

• Consistently fast speeds with rapid server connectivity
• Strong security features including Double VPN encryption
• Excellent for streaming with high success rates accessing geo-blocked content
• Recently launched NordWhisper protocol for restrictive networks
• Fifth independent audit confirms no-logs policy
• 30-day money-back guarantee

Who it’s for: Anyone seeking the best overall VPN experience with reliable performance across multiple devices.

Who should look elsewhere: If you prioritize speed on distant servers above all else, ExpressVPN might be a better fit.

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🥈 ExpressVPN – Fastest VPN Service

Price: Starting at $2.44/month (two-year plan with 4 months free)

ExpressVPN remains our top choice for speed, consistently ranking first in our tests over the past few years. It offers some of the most reliable and consistent connections across its global servers.

Why we love it:

• Exceptional speeds, especially on long-distance servers
• Expansive network covering 105 countries, including servers in every U.S. state
• User-friendly interface across all platforms
• New tiered pricing model offers better value
• Strong security with no browsing logs
• 30-day money-back guarantee

Who it’s for: Users who prioritize speed above all else, especially for streaming and gaming.

Who should look elsewhere: Budget-conscious users might find better value with Surfshark or other more affordable options.

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🥉 Surfshark VPN – Best Value

Price: Starting at $2/month (two-year plan with 3 months free)

Surfshark stands out as the most affordable premium VPN, offering unlimited simultaneous connections and a solid feature set at a fraction of the cost of competitors.

Why we love it:

• Unlimited device connections
• Reasonable speeds with a decent server network (100 countries)
• Strong security with AES-256-GCM encryption
• No-logs policy verified by Deloitte
• Additional features like CleanWeb ad-blocker and MultiHop
• 30-day money-back guarantee

Who it’s for: Budget-conscious users who need VPN protection across multiple devices without breaking the bank.

Who should look elsewhere: Users who need the absolute fastest speeds or most advanced customization options.

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Proton VPN – Best for Privacy

Price: Free plan available or $3/month (two-year plan)

Based in Switzerland with strict privacy laws, Proton VPN offers exceptional privacy features and a trustworthy free tier.

Why we love it:

• Open-source apps for transparency
• Strict no-logs policy
• Swiss jurisdiction with strong privacy protections
• Developed its own Stealth protocol for censorship circumvention
• Free plan with no bandwidth limits
• 30-day money-back guarantee

Who it’s for: Privacy-conscious users who want transparency and trust, or those seeking a reliable free VPN option.

Who should look elsewhere: Users who need the fastest speeds or largest server network.

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Private Internet Access (PIA) – Best for Customization

Price: Starting at $2/month (two-year plan)

PIA offers excellent security through its open-source approach and unlimited simultaneous connections, making it ideal for tech-savvy users.

Why we love it:

• Open-source software for transparency and security
• Unlimited simultaneous connections
• Strong no-logs policy with regular transparency reports
• Highly customizable with advanced features
• 30-day money-back guarantee

Who it’s for: Security-conscious users who appreciate open-source transparency and need VPN protection across many devices.

Who should look elsewhere: Users who prioritize speed or want a more modern, streamlined interface.

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Alternative VPNs Worth Considering

• Mullvad VPN: Open-source with simple flat-rate pricing at €5/month
• CyberGhost: Excellent for streaming with specialized servers
• IPVanish: Highly customizable with attractive mobile apps
• Windscribe: Good free tier with up to 10GB monthly data
• Astrill VPN: Best for bypassing censorship in restrictive countries

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How We Test VPNs

Our testing methodology includes:

• Performance: Speed tests on both fiber and broadband connections
• Simultaneous connections: Minimum of 6 devices supported
• Security: Protocol strength, encryption standards, and kill switch functionality
• Streaming capabilities: Ability to bypass geo-restrictions
• Platform support: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and more
• Server network: At least 50 countries for variety
• Trial length and price: 30-day money-back guarantee minimum
• Customer support: Availability and responsiveness

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Latest VPN News

• Dutch law enforcement allegedly seized a Windscribe server without a warrant
• France considering VPN ban affecting under-15s
• Research shows high volume of ransomware incidents linked to compromised VPN credentials
• X may add indicators showing VPN usage
• EFF warns that attempting to block global VPN usage is a privacy disaster

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FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About VPNs

What is a VPN and why do I need one?
A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and masks your IP address, protecting your privacy from ISPs, hackers, and governments. It’s essential for public Wi-Fi security and accessing geo-restricted content.

How do I know if my VPN is working?
Use tools like whatismyipaddress.com to compare your IP address with and without the VPN connected. Test for DNS leaks using DNSLeakTest.com.

Are VPNs legal?
Yes, in most countries including the US, UK, and most of Europe. However, some countries like China, Russia, and Belarus restrict or ban VPN use.

Can I use a VPN on my smart TV?
Some TVs support native VPN apps (Apple TV, Android TV), while others require workarounds like router installation or using streaming devices.

Are free VPNs safe?
Most free VPNs compromise your privacy by selling data or showing ads. Stick with reputable providers or trusted free tiers like Proton VPN.

Do VPNs slow down internet speed?
Yes, due to encryption overhead, but quality VPNs minimize the impact. You’ll notice more slowdown on slower connections than fiber.

How much do VPNs cost?
Expect to pay $2-10/month, with better deals on longer contracts. Month-to-month plans are typically overpriced.

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Speed Test Results (February 2026)

VPN Service	Download Speed Loss	Upload Speed Loss	DNS Leaks
NordVPN	3%	5%	None
ExpressVPN	18%	12%	None
Surfshark	7%	9%	None
Proton VPN	15%	10%	None
PIA	22%	18%	None

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Tags & Viral Phrases

• 1 VPN of 2026

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