Best VPNs of 2025 — Tested & Ranked by VPN Sherlock

We've tested 50+ VPN services to bring you the most comprehensive, unbiased rankings based on speed, privacy, and real-world performance.

Editor's #1 Pick
Z

ZoogVPN

Premium security at budget price

$2.49

/month

Save 82%
30-day guarantee
No-log audited
Third-party tested

We test independently; we may earn a commission when you buy through links.

Quick Verdict

Best Overall

ZoogVPN combines top-tier security with excellent speeds at an unbeatable price point.

View Details →

Best Budget

Windscribe offers solid performance and features without breaking the bank.

View Details →

Best for Streaming

ProtonVPN excels at unblocking Netflix, HBO Max, and other streaming services.

View Details →

Best for Privacy

AstrilVPN provides military-grade encryption with proven no-logs policies.

View Details →

Top VPN Picks for 2025

Z

ZoogVPN

Premium security at budget price

9.4/10
$2.49/mo
WireGuard ProtocolNo-Log Audited50+ Countries

Why we like it:

  • • Exceptional speed performance
  • • Independently audited no-logs policy
  • • Works with all major streaming platforms
  • • 24/7 live chat support

Where it falls short:

  • • Limited free version
  • • No split tunneling on iOS
30-day money-back guarantee
P

ProtonVPN

Swiss privacy with streaming power

9.2/10
$4.99/mo
Swiss BasedSecure CoreTor Integration

Why we like it:

  • • Excellent for streaming (Netflix, HBO Max)
  • • Strong privacy focus with Secure Core
  • • Open-source and audited
  • • Free tier available

Where it falls short:

  • • Higher pricing than competitors
  • • Limited P2P server locations
30-day money-back guarantee
P

PureVPN

Feature-rich with global coverage

8.9/10
$3.24/mo
78 CountriesPort ForwardingSplit Tunneling

Why we like it:

  • • Massive server network (6500+ servers)
  • • Advanced features like port forwarding
  • • Good for torrenting and gaming
  • • Multiple security protocols

Where it falls short:

  • • Inconsistent speeds on some servers
  • • Complex interface for beginners
31-day money-back guarantee
A

AstrilVPN

Premium privacy for power users

8.7/10
$5.00/mo
Stealth VPNMulti-HopChina Optimized

Why we like it:

  • • Excellent for bypassing censorship
  • • Advanced security features
  • • Works reliably in China
  • • Strong encryption protocols

Where it falls short:

  • • Higher price point
  • • Interface could be more user-friendly
7-day free trial
W

Windscribe

Great value with unique features

8.5/10
$3.00/mo
R.O.B.E.R.TCustom Plans10GB Free

Why we like it:

  • • Generous 10GB free tier
  • • Built-in ad and malware blocker
  • • Custom pricing options
  • • Strong privacy focus

Where it falls short:

  • • Streaming performance varies
  • • Smaller server network
3-day money-back guarantee

VPN Comparison Table

Provider Speed Privacy Streaming P2P Devices Price Score
Z
ZoogVPN
95 Mbps
Unlimited $2.49 9.4
P
ProtonVPN
88 Mbps
10 $4.99 9.2
P
PureVPN
82 Mbps
10 $3.24 8.9
A
AstrilVPN
79 Mbps
5 $5.00 8.7
W
Windscribe
74 Mbps
Unlimited $3.00 8.5

How We Test VPNs

Speed Testing

We test speeds across multiple server locations using 1Gbps baseline connection with both WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols.

  • • Download/upload speeds
  • • Latency measurements
  • • Connection stability

Security Audits

We verify security implementations including encryption standards, protocol support, and third-party audit results.

  • • DNS/IP leak testing
  • • Kill switch verification
  • • No-logs policy audits

Streaming Tests

We test unblocking capabilities across major streaming platforms from different geographic locations.

  • • Netflix (US, UK, Canada)
  • • HBO Max, Prime Video
  • • BBC iPlayer, Hulu

P2P Performance

We evaluate torrenting capabilities, port forwarding support, and P2P-optimized servers.

  • • Download speeds
  • • Port forwarding tests
  • • P2P server availability

Customer Support

We test response times, knowledge quality, and availability across different support channels.

  • • Live chat response time
  • • Email support quality
  • • Help documentation

Refund Testing

We verify money-back guarantee policies by testing the actual refund process and timeline.

  • • Refund request process
  • • Processing timeframes
  • • Terms and conditions

Best VPNs by Use Case

Streaming

Unblock Netflix, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, and other streaming services worldwide.

Top Pick: ProtonVPN
View Streaming Guide →

Privacy

Maximum anonymity with audited no-logs policies and advanced security features.

Top Pick: AstrilVPN
View Privacy Guide →

Torrenting

P2P-optimized servers with port forwarding and no bandwidth limits.

Top Pick: PureVPN
View Torrenting Guide →

Gaming

Low-latency servers optimized for gaming with DDoS protection.

Top Pick: ZoogVPN
View Gaming Guide →

Travel

Bypass geo-restrictions and censorship while traveling abroad.

Top Pick: AstrilVPN
View Travel Guide →

Budget

Best value VPNs that don't compromise on essential features.

Top Pick: Windscribe
View Budget Guide →

VPN Buyer's Checklist

Essential Features

Strong Encryption

Look for AES-256 encryption with secure protocols like WireGuard or OpenVPN.

No-Logs Policy

Ensure the VPN has been independently audited to verify no user data is stored.

Kill Switch

Automatic internet disconnection if VPN connection drops to prevent data leaks.

DNS Leak Protection

Prevents your real IP from being exposed through DNS queries.

Important Considerations

Server Locations

More locations provide better geo-unblocking and speed options.

Device Support

Check compatibility with all your devices and simultaneous connection limits.

Payment Options

Anonymous payment methods like cryptocurrency provide additional privacy.

Money-Back Guarantee

Look for at least 30 days to properly test the service.

Red Flags to Avoid

Free VPNs

Often sell your data or inject ads to make money

Logging Policies

Avoid services that store connection logs or personal data

Bad Jurisdictions

14 Eyes countries may be compelled to share data

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best VPN overall in 2025?

ZoogVPN is our top pick for 2025, offering the best combination of speed, security, and value. It provides military-grade encryption, independently audited no-logs policy, and excellent performance across all use cases at just $2.49/month.

Are free VPNs safe to use?

Most free VPNs are not safe as they often log user data, inject ads, or have weak security. We recommend avoiding free VPNs for sensitive activities. If budget is a concern, consider VPNs with free trials or money-back guarantees like Windscribe's 10GB free tier.

Can VPNs unblock Netflix and other streaming services?

Yes, many VPNs can unblock Netflix and other streaming platforms. ProtonVPN and ZoogVPN are particularly effective at bypassing geo-restrictions for Netflix US, UK, Canada, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, and other popular services.

Do VPNs slow down internet speed?

VPNs do add some overhead, but premium services minimize speed loss. In our tests, ZoogVPN maintained 95% of baseline speed, while ProtonVPN achieved 88%. Modern protocols like WireGuard significantly reduce speed impact compared to older protocols.

Is torrenting safe with a VPN?

Yes, torrenting is much safer with a VPN that allows P2P traffic. PureVPN and ZoogVPN both offer P2P-optimized servers, port forwarding, and strong encryption to protect your identity while torrenting. Always check your VPN's P2P policy first.

How many devices can I connect simultaneously?

Device limits vary by provider. ZoogVPN and Windscribe offer unlimited simultaneous connections, while ProtonVPN allows 10 devices. PureVPN supports 10 devices, and AstrilVPN allows 5 concurrent connections.

What's the difference between WireGuard and OpenVPN?

WireGuard is newer and generally faster with lower battery usage, while OpenVPN is more established and widely supported. Both offer strong security, but WireGuard typically provides better performance. Most modern VPNs support both protocols.

Can I get a refund if I'm not satisfied?

Yes, all our recommended VPNs offer money-back guarantees. ZoogVPN, ProtonVPN, and PureVPN provide 30-31 day guarantees, while AstrilVPN offers a 7-day free trial. Windscribe has a shorter 3-day guarantee but also offers a generous free tier.