AlexLooking for a VPN that really works? I've tested these five VPN services extensively, and here's what you should know about each one. No fancy tech talk - just honest details about what they offer and how they perform in real-world use.
NordVPN: The Security Powerhouse That's Actually Easy to Use
NordVPN has earned its spot at the top of many VPN lists, and for good reason. They've managed to pack serious security features into an app that doesn't feel overwhelming.
What makes NordVPN worth your money:
- Works on 10 devices at the same time - perfect for protecting your phone, laptop, tablet, and other gadgets
- Their app blocks ads and dangerous websites automatically, so you don't need separate software
- Includes a password manager that remembers and fills in your passwords
- Gives you 1TB of encrypted cloud storage on their top plan - great for backing up important files
- Offers €5,000 coverage if you get scammed while using their VPN
- Servers in 59 countries that actually deliver good speeds
- Works reliably with Netflix, HBO, Disney+, and other streaming services
- Their support team responds quickly and actually helps solve problems
The cost breakdown:
- Monthly plan: €12.99/month (good for trying it out)
- One-year plan: €4.59/month (saves you quite a bit)
- Two-year plan: €3.59/month (best long-term value)
- All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Private Internet Access (PIA): The Tech-Savvy Choice That Delivers
PIA stands out by being completely open about how their service works. They publish their code publicly - something most VPN companies won't do. This transparency has earned them a loyal following among privacy-focused users.
Why PIA might be right for you:
- No device limits at all - protect every gadget you own
- Huge network with servers in 91 countries
- Open-source apps mean anyone can verify their security
- Great for getting around internet blocks and restrictions
- Fast enough for 4K streaming and large downloads
- Built-in ad blocker that actually works
- Port forwarding available if you need it
- Strong encryption options for advanced users
- Regular security audits prove they keep their promises
Price options:
- Monthly: €10.69 (flexible but pricey)
- Six months: €6.79/month (middle-ground option)
- Two years + 4 months: €1.85/month (serious savings here)
Get Private Internet Access VPN.
Surfshark: Complete Digital Protection Package
Surfshark takes an interesting approach by combining VPN service with other security tools. Instead of just hiding your location, they help protect your whole digital life.
Standout features:
- Works on unlimited devices simultaneously
- Includes antivirus protection that's actually effective
- Alerts you if your passwords or data leak online
- Helps remove your personal info from data broker websites
- Blocks ads and trackers automatically
- Offers special modes for getting around strict internet blocks
- Clean, modern apps that don't confuse you
- Split tunneling lets you choose which apps use the VPN
- Regular updates to stay ahead of new threats
Breaking down the costs:
- Monthly plan: €15.45
- Yearly plan: €2.99/month (includes 4 extra months)
- Two-year plan: €1.99/month (their best deal)
CyberGhost: Streaming and Gaming Made Simple
CyberGhost focuses on making things easy for users who mainly want a VPN for entertainment. They've built specialized servers that work better for specific activities.
What you'll love about CyberGhost:
- Connect up to 7 devices at once
- Special servers optimized for Netflix, Disney+, and other streaming services
- Gaming servers with better speeds and lower ping
- Smart TV and console support that actually works
- Easy router setup if you want whole-house protection
- Automatic connection rules make it work seamlessly
- Updates their streaming servers regularly when they get blocked
- No-spy servers located in privacy-friendly countries
- Built-in ad and malware blocking
The pricing:
- One month: €11.99
- Six months: €6.99/month
- Two years + 4 months: €2.03/month (best value)
ProtonVPN: Privacy Done Right
Coming from the makers of ProtonMail, ProtonVPN brings serious privacy credentials to the table. They're based in Switzerland, which has some of the strongest privacy laws in the world.
Why privacy fans love ProtonVPN:
- Swiss privacy laws protect your data
- Their unique Stealth protocol beats VPN blocking
- Never logs what you do online
- Offers a free plan that's actually usable
- Apps for all major devices and platforms
- Great at bypassing censorship
- Secure Core servers route through privacy-friendly countries
- Regular transparency reports prove their commitment
- Independent security audits verify their claims
- Works with most streaming services
What you'll pay:
- Free plan: Basic features but still useful
- Monthly: $9.99
- Yearly: $4.99/month
- Two years: $4.49/month (best deal they offer)
How to Pick the Right One
Think about what matters most to you:
Need the most security? NordVPN is your best bet. Their security features and scam protection put them ahead for safety.
Want to protect lots of devices? PIA or Surfshark are great choices since they don't limit connections.
Care about streaming? CyberGhost makes it super easy with their specialized servers.
On a tight budget? Start with ProtonVPN's free plan - it's surprisingly good.
Want all-around protection? Surfshark gives you the most tools in one package.
Remember:
- All these services encrypt your data and hide your location
- They all offer money-back guarantees
- Longer plans save money but require commitment
- Apps work on Windows, Mac, phones, and tablets
- Support is available if you need help
The best part? You can't really go wrong with any of these choices. They're all solid VPN services that deliver on their promises. Just pick the one that matches your needs and budget, and you'll be browsing safely in no time.
Final tip: Start with a monthly plan to test the service, then switch to a longer plan if you're happy with it. That way you're not locked into something that doesn't work for you.
