Best VPN Software 2025

Last updated June 6, 2025
Blake Stagner
Written & Reviewed

Blake Stagner

Seth Cagampang
Reviewed by

Seth Cagampang

We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more

Here are the best VPNs of 2025. We reviewed each one for speed, security, privacy, price, and user feedback. Some are better for streaming, others for strong encryption or low monthly costs. We kept things simple so you can compare the top VPN services quickly. Whether you're working remotely, browsing at home, or traveling, this list helps you find a VPN that fits.

Top-Rated Best VPN Software 2025

NordVPN

NordVPN

★★★★★4.9
Best Vpn Software of 2025
Try NordVPN Now

High-speed VPN with Double VPN and Meshnet for secure, private browsing and streaming.

Pros

  • Independently audited no-logs policy (Security.org)
  • NordLynx delivers class-leading speeds (Comparitech)
  • Built-in Threat Protection blocks ads, trackers & malware (Security.org)
  • 7 000 + servers successfully unblock Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, more (NY Post)

Cons

Key Features:

  • No-logs policy
  • Double VPN
  • Meshnet
  • Threat Protection
  • 6 simultaneous connections
Surfshark

Surfshark

★★★★★4.7
Best Budget VPN with Unlimited Devices
Try Surfshark Now

Budget-friendly VPN offering unlimited device connections and strong streaming support.

Pros

  • Truly unlimited simultaneous connections (Reddit)
  • Cheapest long-term pricing among top-tier VPNs (Cybernews)
  • CleanWeb blocks ads, trackers & phishing domains (The Sun)
  • WireGuard speeds exceed 950 Mbps in tests (TechRadar)

Cons

  • Speeds dip slightly behind NordVPN on OpenVPN (VPNMentor)
  • No SOCKS5 proxy option for advanced torrent setups (VPNpro)

Key Features:

  • Unlimited devices
  • CleanWeb ad blocker
  • Camouflage & NoBorders modes
  • Split tunneling
  • 24/7 support
GitLab

GitLab

★★★★★4.6
Best Single‑Application DevOps Platform
Try GitLab Now

Single-application DevOps platform for source control, CI/CD & security

Pros

  • End-to-end DevOps in one app: repos, CI/CD, security tests - Capterra
  • Rich CI templates accelerate pipeline setup for beginners - PeerSpot
  • Self-hosted edition offers fine-grained control and privacy - Capterra

Cons

  • Interface can feel cluttered due to sheer feature breadth - PeerSpot
  • Runner management and caching need tuning on large projects - Capterra
  • Premium price for Ultimate tier security features - PeerSpot

Key Features:

  • Git repo hosting
  • Built-in CI/CD
  • Issue boards
  • Security scanning (SAST/DAST)
  • Package & container registry
Proton VPN

Proton VPN

★★★★★4.6
Best Privacy‑First VPN
Try Proton VPN Now

Privacy-centric Swiss VPN with a generous free tier and Secure Core multi-hop routing.

Pros

Cons

  • Paid tiers cost more than Surfshark or PIA (Cloudwards)
  • Support response times can be slow (Cloudwards)
  • Free servers can become congested during peak hours (Reddit)

Key Features:

  • Secure Core
  • Free plan
  • NetShield
  • Tor over VPN
  • Open-source apps
Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access

★★★★★4.6
Best Customizable VPN with Proven No‑Logs
Try Private Internet Access Now

Highly customizable VPN with proven no-logs policy and extensive server network.

Pros

  • Audited no-logs policy despite US jurisdiction (Comparitech)
  • Port forwarding & SOCKS5 proxy ideal for P2P (Cybernews)
  • Open-source clients with granular settings (Cybernews)
  • Huge server fleet across 90 + countries (Comparitech)

Cons

  • WireGuard speeds can be inconsistent on distant servers (Comparitech)
  • Headquartered in the US (Five Eyes) (CyberInsider)
  • Unreliable at unblocking some popular streaming libraries (CyberInsider)

Key Features:

  • No-logs policy
  • Open-source apps
  • Built-in ad & tracker blocker
  • 10 simultaneous connections
  • Port forwarding
CyberGhost

CyberGhost

★★★★★4.5
Best User‑Friendly VPN for Streaming
Try CyberGhost Now

User-friendly VPN with streaming-optimized servers and a 45-day money-back guarantee.

Pros

  • 11 500 + servers with streaming-optimized locations (Cybernews)
  • Generous 45-day money-back guarantee (Work-Management)
  • Smart Rules let you automate connections & open apps (Cybernews)
  • Romanian jurisdiction + audited no-logs policy (Security.org)

Cons

Key Features:

  • Streaming servers
  • No-logs policy
  • Smart Rules automation
  • 24/7 support
  • 7 simultaneous connections
Mullvad

Mullvad

★★★★4.4
Best Anonymous VPN with Flat Pricing
Try Mullvad Now

Flat-rate privacy-first VPN that accepts anonymous cash payments and requires no email.

Pros

  • Flat €5 price, no long-term lock-in (Forbes)
  • Anonymous sign-up (no email) & cash/crypto payments (Digital Nomads)
  • Open-source apps & audited no-logs policy (Forbes)
  • WireGuard delivers solid speeds for a privacy-focused VPN (AllAboutCookies)

Cons

  • Smaller server network & limited streaming support (AllAboutCookies)
  • Lacks Smart DNS and native split-tunneling on mobile (CyberInsider)
  • Account recovery can be tricky (random account number only) (Digital Trends)

Key Features:

  • Flat pricing
  • No email required
  • Anti-tracking DNS
  • Port forwarding
  • WireGuard & OpenVPN

Why These Tools Made the Cut

User Satisfaction

Each tool has received consistently high ratings and positive reviews from real users.

Feature Set

We evaluate the depth and breadth of features, ensuring they meet modern business needs.

Value for Money

Tools are assessed based on their pricing tiers and the value they deliver at each level.

Innovation

We look for tools that are pushing boundaries and introducing new capabilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you select the best software tools?

We evaluate tools based on user reviews, feature sets, pricing, ease of use, and real-world performance. Our team of experts tests each tool thoroughly and considers feedback from thousands of users.

Are these tools suitable for small businesses?

Yes, we include tools that work well for businesses of all sizes. Each review includes information about pricing tiers and scalability to help you find the right fit for your business needs.

How often is this list updated?

We update our top software list quarterly to ensure we're recommending the most current and effective tools. We also monitor major updates and changes to keep our recommendations relevant.

Why are your reviews so short?

Because your time is valuable. No one wants to scroll through a novel just to figure out if a tool is worth it. We give you the key facts fast—then the choice is yours.

Can I trust a short review?

Absolutely. Every word in our reviews is there for a reason. We test the tools, cut the fluff, and give you clear pros, cons, and what matters most so you can decide quickly and confidently.

How do you test the tools?

We test the tools ourselves by using them in real-world scenarios. We also look at user reviews, ratings, and feedback to get a comprehensive understanding of the tool.