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It’s hard to find the best VPN app in a crowded marketplace. Sure, there are a few free options out there. But do you really want to trust the security of your data and communications to a free VPN service?

Even among the paid options, there are key features to compare. This will make sure you find the right one for your needs. Let’s review some of the top VPN apps available, including Namecheap VPN, NordVPN, ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Tunnel.

Namecheap logo
NordVPN logo
ExpressVPN logo
SurfShark logo
EncryptionIKEv2 256 bit AESIKEv2 256 bit AESIKEv2 256 bit AESIKEv2 256 bit AES
Monthly Plan$ 0.99/mo$ 12.99/mo$ 12.95/mo$ 12.95/mo
1 Year plan

1 year

$ 18.88

$ 1.57/mo

1 year

$ 68.85

$ 4.59/mo

1 year

$ 99.95

$ 8.32/mo

1 year

$ 47.88

$ 3.99/mo

40+ Server Locations
1000+ Servers
Works on 5 devices
Privacy activism
Money back guarantee30 days30 days30 days30 days

*Features and pricing information correct as of June 08, 2023

The primary function of a good virtual private network (VPN) is to provide a highly secure and trustworthy connection when using your devices on a public network. Good VPNs enable a private connection, linking computer networks through military grade encryption.

When you review VPN providers, keep in mind that security and reliability should never be compromised.

Encryption Technology

All of the VPN apps we compared offer greatly improved security when exchanging data over the internet. When using a Mac or Windows desktop computer, or iOS mobile device, your data is encrypted using the IKEv2 256 bit AES algorithm.

This means all of your communications will be secure, even when using highly vulnerable public WiFi hotspots. Ever logged into hotel WiFi only to discover a fraud charge on your statement the next day? When used properly, all of these VPN products eliminate the risk of third party data interception over shared WiFi. The Namecheap VPN App uses OpenVPN to secure Android devices.

Best VPN Price

One of the reasons so many people use VPN services is affordability. If you send sensitive information through the internet, the cost of a VPN is a bargain compared to the potential risk of data theft. Common types of data targeted by online thieves include banking information, legal documents, and even email.

The most expensive plan comes from ExpressVPN. They only offer an annual plan, which averages out to $ 8.32 per month. Private Tunnel VPN, which also relies on an annual plan, averages out to $ 3.00 per month, a considerable savings.

The other VPN apps we compared offer generous discounts when you subscribe for several years of service. When you consider that the need for cybersecurity isn’t going away any time soon, buying multiple years of coverage is worth the investment.

The best overall value was Namecheap VPN, which offers a 3-year package that averages out to $ 1.88 per month with a one-time payment. NordVPN and CyberGhost also have 3-year plans, but the cost is higher.

Servers and Locations

Another benefit of using a virtual private network is the ability to connect across many geographic locations. This helps to protect your identity from hackers but also gives you access to content that may exist behind a geofence. For example, if you are interested in certain programming from the BBC, you must have a UK internet connection to see it. Connecting through a UK server using a VPN gives you the same access, just as if you were physically located within the borders of Great Britain.

Because different countries have different internet usage policies, you might also run into legal privacy restrictions in certain places. By using a VPN with many servers in a variety of locations, you can regain control of the sites you are allowed to access, and your anonymity in using them.

Namecheap, NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and CyberGhost each have over 1000 servers located in more than 40 countries worldwide. Private Tunnel comes up a little short, with an unknown number of servers located in about 27 different places.

Use on Multiple Devices

Many people today use multiple devices to access the internet. This might include a personal cell phone, a business mobile device, as well as tablets and multiple laptops running Windows 10 VPN software. It isn’t uncommon for someone to use five different devices to connect to the internet in an average workday.

Families also have a need to protect the data of multiple users. Namecheap, NordVPN, and CyberGhost all allow at least five different computers and mobile phones to connect to your VPN service simultaneously. Basic plans from ExpressVPN and Private Tunnel only allow three devices to connect at once.

Privacy Activism

Namecheap is the only company we compared that has a long-standing reputation for privacy activism. The entire brand is devoted to keeping the internet free and open. The world wide web is made up of computers and servers, but real people are the ones who benefit.

To keep the global marketplace fair, having an online presence is essential. Namecheap’s mission is to provide affordable access to products such as VPN, keeping people, and their data, available and secure.

Money Back Guarantee

If you’re new to the world of VPN service, you may want the peace of mind offered by a money back guarantee. There is always a chance that your needs will change soon after a new purchase, or that the user experience may not be perfect for you. No matter the reason, a money back guarantee gives you extra assurance before entering your payment information.

Namecheap VPN offers a full 30-day money back guarantee, available through customer support 24/7. CyberGhost gives you two extra weeks to request a refund if you are not happy with the service. Private Tunnel grants a 7-day free trial but does not offer refunds if something comes up after you make your first payment.

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Protect your privacy and enjoy secure, fast and anonymous browsing. Stream securely no matter where you are. 30 Days Money Back Guarantee.

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