Protect Your Data and Boost Online Security at Great Rates
Tech for Life & Work
BY 18. April 2025 0 comments

Protect Your Data and Boost Online Security at Great Rates

Our favorite VPNs let you browse the web privately. These services hide your IP address and offer strong encryption to shield your online activity from prying eyes and lift restrictions, whether you’re streaming, gaming, or shopping.

The VPNs we recommend work from a variety of devices, promise to never log your browsing activity, and permit unlimited bandwidth.

Note: Prices are subject to change.


Just Buy This (All Around Best)

Nord VPN

NordVPN
PHOTO: NordVPN

TL;DR: Global server network for quick access from anywhere.

Why We Recommend It

NordVPN is incredibly fast and super secure. You’ll get top-notch speeds by choosing a local server among the thousands that exist across over 100 countries.

NordVPN includes all the conveniences you’d expect from a great VPN. There’s a kill switch, split tunneling options, and even a double VPN for an extra layer of protection.

We’re also big fans of this VPN’s extra features. Depending on the plan, you’ll get other security-related goodies like anti-malware protection, ad blocking, a password manager, 1 TB of encrypted cloud storage, and access to NordProtect, the company’s suite of identity theft protection tools.

Compatibility: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Apple TV

Get started for as low as $3.09 per month.

ExpressVPN
PHOTO: ExpressVPN

TL;DR: Unblocks streaming services and stops ads and trackers.

Why We Recommend It

If you’re a big streamer or gamer looking to unblock content, you can’t go wrong with ExpressVPN. Its server network spans the globe, letting you access local streaming services and other region-locked products across 105 countries.

Pros

  • One account for 8 devices

  • All plans include a password manager

  • Works on phones, computers, and TVs

The ExpressVPN app runs on several devices to block ads and trackers. In addition to hiding your IP address and encrypting all your data, the app will notify you if your private info is found on the web and let you store all your complex passwords for easy retrieval from your phone, tablet, or computer.

Compatibility: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Android TV, Apple TV

Get started for as low as $4.99 per month.

surf shark
PHOTO: surf shark

TL;DR: Protect unlimited devices and fake your GPS location for a few bucks per month.

Why We Recommend It

Surfshark is an awesome choice if you’re looking for long-term protection but need to keep costs as low as humanly possible. The entry-level tier works out to just $2 per month if you order 27 months upfront, making it the most inexpensive option on this list.

This VPN lets you log in to an unlimited number of devices with one account, making VPN access convenient for the whole family.

You also get special servers designed to hide your VPN usage, pop-up and ad blocking, the ability to fake your physical location on Android, and alternative IDs for account privacy. Some plans also include webcam protection, antivirus software, and personal data security reports.

Compatibility: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Edge

Get started for as low as $1.99 per month.

Norton VPN
PHOTO: Norton

TL;DR: Includes parental controls tools and antivirus software for computer users.

Why We Recommend It

This VPN is a good fit for anyone who also wants the benefit of Norton’s virus protection tools since you can pick a plan that includes their full-fledged AV software. If you have kids, you’ll enjoy the content blocker, screen time limiter, and other parental control tools.

Pros

  • One account for up to 10 devices

  • Three plans for different use cases

  • 60-day money back guarantee

Two of the three Norton VPN plans let you securely upload important files to your online account; up to 50 GB of storage is available as part of your subscription, meaning the whole family can benefit.

In addition to the VPN and secure cloud storage, Norton VPN users can store their passwords, bank cards, and other private information in the included password manager.

Compatibility: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS

Get started for as low as $3.33 per month.

How We Chose

Choosing our favorite VPNs meant looking beyond big names and marketing claims. We dug into the details of several services to evaluate speed, security, and reliability.

Privacy was a top concern, so we checked into their encryption methods and logging policies to confirm their protection commitment. We also factored in user experiences, industry reputation, pricing, and extra features like streaming support and multi-device compatibility.

The result? A list of VPNs that offer strong security, solid performance, and good value for different needs.

What to Look For

The most important factor to consider when choosing a VPN is privacy. Always read the fine print and ensure that the provider clearly communicates what kind of user data it does and does not store. A ‘no-logs’ VPN is what you’re looking for if you’re after ultimate privacy.

Most VPNs work on a variety of platforms. If you mainly use a smartphone and a computer, look for a VPN that can run on at least two devices simultaneously and that works on those platforms (Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, etc.). If the provider doesn’t have an app for your device, they might instead support your router which applies the VPN to all your devices.

Server spread is also important. To maximize speed—which is important for streaming and gaming—ensure that the VPN includes servers that are close to your physical location. VPN websites typically advertise this information before you sign up.

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