Best VPNs for PC, Windows, Mac and Mobile

Compare and Find Your Perfect VPN

At VPNGuru, our team has rigorously tested, reviewed, and compared over 300 VPNs to bring you the top 5 best VPNs for 2023. Whether you’re browsing on your Windows, Mac, or Mobile device, these VPNs will enable you to browse the Internet safely and anonymously. Additionally, you’ll be able to unblock streaming platforms, bypass censorship, and more. Don’t forget to explore the best VPN deals available and access free VPN trials to test the service yourself.

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   1      Best VPN in 2023

ExpressVPN horizontal logo

Enjoy blazing-fast speeds and unrestricted access worldwide. VPNGuru’s #1 Recommendation for 2023.

ExpressVPN’s latest deal July 2023: Pay Monthly or Save 49% + 3 Months FREE on an Annual Plan!

9.9

Ranked 1st out of 338 VPNs

 
ribbon

Over 6,000 people have picked ExpressVPN in the last 7 days

   2      Great Value for Money

surfshark-alternative-logo

9.5

Excellent! 

   3      Outstanding VPN

nordvpn logo

9.3

Outstanding!

    4

PIA Logo

9.0

four-stars

Great!

    5

cyberghost-alternative-logo

8.5

four-stars

1   Best VPN in 2023

ExpressVPN horizontal logo

9.9

yellow star

Enjoy blazing-fast speeds and unrestricted access worldwide. VPNGuru’s #1 Recommendation for 2023.

ribbon

Over 6,000 people have picked ExpressVPN in the last 7 days 

ExpressVPN’s latest deal July 2023: Pay Monthly or Save 49% + 3 Months FREE on an Annual Plan!

2   Great Value for Money

surfshark-alternative-logo

9.5

yellow star

3   Outstanding VPN

nordvpn logo

9.3

yellow star

4

PIA Logo

9.0

yellow star

5

cyberghost-alternative-logo

8.5

yellow star

How We Rate Our VPNs

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Features

To figure out which VPNs are worth your money, we looked at what each VPN offers, starting with features.

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Support

We examined each VPN’s customer support availability, what forms of contact are available, and how efficient their support team is.

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Ease of Use

We then tested each VPN’s ease-of-use, from downloading and installing the software to connecting to the right server.

user-score-icon

User Score

We analyzed our users’ reviews, both the positive and the negative.

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Pricing

We compared all of that to the price to see if it was worthwhile or not.

Why You need a VPN

Why a VPN is worth it? A VPN acts as a shield that protects your online activity. You can install a VPN on all your internet-capable devices, giving you the ability to safely browse the web whether you’re at home or on the go. Also, it protects your online privacy and unblock bandwidth throttling.

Aside from all the extra features like accessing blocked sites and apps, it provides a secure connection and prevents others from accessing your data. Read more on why getting a VPN is worth it here.

What is a VPN?

VPN stands for ‘virtual private network,’ and it acts as a barrier between your personal data and the websites you visit, making your online viewing habits completely private. As a result, your visits to sites won’t be tracked, and your IP address won’t be revealed to the sites you visit.

Will using a VPN slow down my internet speed?

This typically depends on several factors; first and foremost, the quality of the VPN service. Moreover, the best VPNs will have servers with unlimited download speeds and will avoid throttling (the intentional slowing or speeding of an internet service by an Internet service provider).

Why should I use a VPN?

VPNs encrypt your online data and create a secure connection to the internet. Furthermore, they are great for keeping you secure when you are using public WiFi, as they make it close to impossible for cybercriminals to steal your personal data.

Are paid VPNs more reliable than free VPNs?

Both paid and free VPNs will most likely get the job done; however, free VPNs are notorious for storing user data. Additionally, free VPN services typically make their profits by selling user data to corporations for advertising purposes.

VPN stands for “virtual private network”. A VPN acts as a barrier between your personal data and the websites that you visit, making your online viewing habits completely private. Your visits to sites won’t be tracked and your IP address won’t be revealed to sites you visit.

VPNs encrypt your online data and create a secure connection to the internet. VPNs are great for keeping you secure when you are using public WiFi since they make it close to impossible for cyber criminals to steal your personal data.

This typically depends on several factors, first and foremost, the quality of the VPN service. The best VPNs will have servers with unlimited download speeds and will avoid throttling (the intentional slowing or speeding of an internet service by an Internet service provider).

Both paid and free VPNs will most likely get the job done, however, free VPNs are notorious for storing user data. Free VPN services typically make their profits by selling user data to corporations for advertising purposes.

Everything You Need to Know About VPNs

In an age where our lives are increasingly conducted online, the need to safeguard our digital identities and protect our data has never been more critical. A VPN serves as your digital shield, encrypting your internet connection and ensuring that your online activities remain private and secure. Moreover, it’s not just about anonymous browsing – it’s about reclaiming control over your online presence in a world where privacy is often compromised. Whether you want to keep your personal information safe from prying eyes, access geo-restricted content, or simply browse the web without the fear of being tracked, a VPN is the essential tool that empowers you to navigate the digital realm with confidence and peace of mind.

In the following sections, we’ll explore in-depth the various reasons why a VPN should be an integral part of your online toolkit.

The ABCs of VPN

Indeed, understanding the fundamentals of a VPN is crucial before delving into its various uses. A VPN, or virtual private network, is a technology that establishes a secure and encrypted connection, often referred to as a tunnel, over the public internet. This tunnel ensures that the data transmitted between your device and the VPN server remains confidential and protected from prying eyes. Essentially, a VPN acts as a shield, safeguarding your online activities and data from potential threats and surveillance. With this foundation in mind, we can explore the wide range of applications and benefits that VPNs offer.

At first, VPN technology was invented as a way for businesses and other private network operators to provide remote access to internal network resources (servers, printers, etc.) for authorized users. However, in recent years, consumer VPNs have started to come to market that use the technology in a different way. Consequently, they allow individual internet users to route their traffic through their choice of endpoint servers located in data centers around the world.

The Benefits of Using a VPN

Now that you’re aware of what a consumer VPN does, you may be wondering what the advantages of using one might be. There are more than you might imagine. For example, although you might not know it, your ISP may be keeping careful track of everything you do on your internet connection. They do so because your internet habits make for valuable data that advertisers will pay handsomely for. Therefore, with a VPN in use, your ISP becomes blind to your activities – they can see that you’ve made a single connection to the internet (to the VPN server itself) but not what you’re using it for. As a result, for the privacy-conscious, that makes using a VPN an absolute necessity. However, that’s not all they can do. Let’s explore the numerous benefits of using a VPN for Windows, Mac, and mobile devices.

Enhanced Online Privacy

Privacy is a fundamental right, and a VPN helps you exercise it to the fullest. By encrypting your internet connection, a VPN ensures that your online activities remain private. Additionally, you don’t have to worry about DNS leaks.

Furthermore, whether you’re using Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, or Linux, a VPN creates a secure tunnel that shields your data. As a result, your browsing history, emails, and personal information are kept away from prying eyes.

Bypass Geo-Restrictions

Moreover, one of the most significant advantages of using a VPN is the ability to bypass geo-restrictions. Streaming services like Netflix, Hotstar, Hulu, DAZN, Disney+, and Live Sports channels often limit access to specific regions. With a VPN, you can virtually change your location to anywhere in the world, allowing you to access blocked content, watch region-locked videos, and enjoy an unrestricted internet experience.

Secure Public Wi-Fi Connections

Public Wi-Fi networks are notorious for their lack of security. Cybercriminals can easily intercept data transmitted over these networks, putting your sensitive information at risk. Whether you’re at a coffee shop, airport, or hotel, a VPN provides a secure connection, encrypting your data and protecting it from potential threats.

Avoid Bandwidth Throttling

Some ISPs engage in a practice known as bandwidth throttling, where they intentionally slow down your internet connection when they detect certain activities, such as streaming or torrenting. However, by using a VPN, you can hide your online activities from your ISP. Consequently, this prevents them from throttling your bandwidth and ensures a smooth, uninterrupted online experience.

Anonymous and Secure Torrenting

Additionally, using a VPN grants you online anonymity for torrenting. This anonymity not only enhances your privacy but also protects you from potential legal consequences in regions where torrenting copyrighted material is prohibited. Furthermore, VPNs encrypt your internet traffic, preventing your ISP from throttling your bandwidth based on torrenting activities. This means faster download speeds and a seamless torrenting experience. Furthermore, most VPNs like ExpressVPN also have a Network Lock or Kill Switch function to ensure that even if your connection gets cut off, you’re still protected. 

Enhanced Gaming Experience

Using a VPN for gaming can significantly enhance your gaming experience. Firstly, it helps reduce lag and ping times by connecting you to servers optimized for gaming, ensuring smoother and more responsive gameplay. Moreover, a VPN protects your gaming activities from Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, shielding you from potential disruptions caused by malicious gamers.

Additionally, it lets you bypass geo-restrictions, enabling you to access game servers and content not available in your region. Lastly, a VPN adds an extra layer of security, safeguarding your personal information from potential threats and hackers while you immerse yourself in the world of online gaming.

Peace of Mind for Business

On the other hand, for businesses and remote workers, VPNs are invaluable. They provide a secure channel for accessing company resources and protect sensitive data when connecting to public networks. Additionally, some VPN service providers offer dedicated IP addresses to keep your data safe. With remote work on the rise, VPNs have become an essential tool for maintaining cybersecurity.

What to Look For in a VPN

By now, it should be obvious why so many people buy VPN services these days. However, choosing the right VPN service can make all the difference, so it’s essential to read through VPN reviews. Moreover, the best VPN service providers set themselves apart from the competition by offering benefits and features that customers won’t find elsewhere, such as:

Security and Privacy

The foundation of any VPN service is its ability to provide robust security and privacy features. Therefore, look for a VPN that offers strong encryption protocols (like AES-256), a strict no-logs policy, and a kill switch. Additionally, these elements ensure that your data remains confidential and protected, even if your connection to the VPN server is interrupted.

Server Locations

The best VPNs have a wide network of servers located in various countries. Consequently, this allows you to choose from a range of server locations to access geo-restricted content or reduce latency for online gaming. Additionally, a diverse server network ensures flexibility and reliability.

Speed and Performance

Nobody wants a sluggish internet connection. Therefore, when evaluating VPN services, consider their impact on your internet speed. Moreover, the best VPNs, in this regard, provide minimal speed loss, allowing you to browse, stream, and download without noticeable slowdowns.

Device Compatibility

Check whether the VPN service is compatible with the devices you use most frequently. Additionally, regardless of whether you’re on Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, or Linux, a good VPN should offer user-friendly apps for all major platforms.

Simultaneous Connections

Many of us have multiple devices, and the best VPN services recognize that. Look for a VPN that allows for multiple simultaneous connections, so you can protect all your devices with a single subscription.

Customer Support

Reliable customer support is crucial. Furthermore, look for a VPN service that provides responsive customer support through various channels, including live chat, email, or phone. This ensures you can get assistance if you encounter any issues.

Price and Value

While quality often comes at a price, the best VPNs offer competitive pricing with flexible subscription options. However, be wary of free VPN services, as they often come with limitations and privacy concerns. Investing in a reputable VPN service is a wise choice for long-term online security and privacy.

Trial Period and Money-Back Guarantee

To ensure you’re satisfied with your choice, opt for a VPN service that offers a trial period or a money-back guarantee. This allows you to test and trial the service risk-free and determine if it meets your expectations. Check out our list for the best free VPN trials available.

Bypassing Censorship and Geo-blocks

It’s crucial to consider the VPN’s ability to unblock restricted content and websites. While the best VPNs are typically subscription-based, they often come equipped with powerful geo-unblocking capabilities. This allows you to access streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and more.

Additional Features

Consider any extra features that may enhance your online experience. Additionally, some VPN service providers offer features like ad blocking, split tunneling, and dedicated IP addresses, which can be valuable additions depending on your specific needs.

Considering the Best Free VPNs

While it’s tempting to seek out the best free VPNs as a cost-effective solution, it’s essential to approach them with caution. Despite some free VPN services offering limited anonymity and privacy benefits, most come with restrictions such as data caps, slower speeds, and a more limited server network, all of which can limit your online experience. Furthermore, some free VPNs might compromise your privacy by logging your data or displaying intrusive ads. In contrast, the best VPNs, even if they require a subscription, generally offer a more comprehensive and reliable package, including enhanced security, faster speeds, and a broader server selection, making them a worthwhile investment for those serious about online privacy and unrestricted internet access.

A VPN is a Must-Have

As you can see, there’s no shortage of reasons why you need a VPN in 2023. Additionally, they provide you with security, privacy, and flexibility in how you use the internet, no matter where you go. With the right VPN, you can browse, stream, torrent, and game with confidence, knowing that your online activities are shielded from potential threats.

Moreover, as the digital landscape continues to evolve, a VPN has become not just a luxury but a necessity. So, whether you’re on a Windows PC, Mac, iOS, or Android, it’s time to make the smart choice and invest in a VPN—your ticket to a safer, more secure, and truly borderless internet.

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