Quick answer: Our top pick is NordVPN, followed by ExpressVPN and Proton VPN. Entry prices start near $2/mo. All 5 are compared below on price, strengths and the key trade-off of each, so you can match one to your needs.
The shortlist below is ordered for real-world value, not marketing budget. This guide rounds up the 5 tools we'd actually recommend for this job, with what each does best, what it costs, and who should pick it.
We looked at where each tool genuinely earns its keep for this use case, what the entry tier really costs, and who walks away happy. Pricing reflects public plans at the time of writing.
Largest server network with NordLynx (WireGuard) speeds, Threat Protection malware blocking and audited no-logs policy. A strong default when streaming is the priority.
Why it's on this list: One of the most frequently audited no-logs VPNs paired with consistently top-tier WireGuard speeds. A natural fit for users wanting a do-everything VPN for streaming and privacy without managing technical settings.
Standout features:
Double VPN multi-hop and Onion-over-VPN routing
Meshnet for private encrypted device-to-device links
Standout strength: Repeatedly and independently audited no-logs policy.
Worth knowing: Based in Panama, outside the 5/9/14 Eyes alliances.
Pricing: ~$3-5/mo on 2-year plan, ~$12.99/mo monthly
Premium speeds, Lightway protocol, TrustedServer RAM-only infrastructure and strong unblocking reputation. Best suited to teams that care most about streaming.
Why it's on this list: The most audited consumer VPN, with every server running diskless RAM-only via TrustedServer. A natural fit for users who prioritise ease of use and reliable streaming and will pay a premium for it.
Swiss-based, open-source audited apps, genuinely usable free tier and Secure Core multi-hop routing. Best suited to teams that care most about privacy.
Why it's on this list: The only major VPN combining fully open-source apps, Swiss jurisdiction and a no-data-cap free tier. A natural fit for privacy-focused users and those wanting a trustworthy free VPN with upgrade room.
Large country coverage, always-on audit, and dedicated IP / port-forwarding add-ons. It stands out for budget without a heavy setup cost.
Why it's on this list: Moved to an 'always-on' KPMG audit arrangement with publicly published no-logs reports. Made for budget users wanting wide country coverage and add-on flexibility.
Standout features:
Dedicated IP and port-forwarding add-ons
Split tunneling and kill switch
Standout strength: 'Always-on' KPMG no-logs auditing with public reports.
Worth knowing: Established an 'always-on' no-logs audit with KPMG in 2023, reports published publicly.
Pricing: ~$2.14/mo on 2-year plan, ~$11.95/mo monthly
Flat 5 EUR/mo, anonymous account numbers (no email), cash/crypto payments and a hardline privacy stance. Best suited to teams that care most about privacy.
Why it's on this list: Sign up with no email using a random account number and pay in cash; privacy is the whole product. Built for privacy maximalists who want anonymity over streaming features.
Standout features:
Anonymous 16-digit account numbers (no email or personal data)
Flat EUR 5/month pricing with no tiers or discounts
Standout strength: Frequently audited by Cure53 and Assured AB.
Worth knowing: Audited multiple times by Cure53 and Assured AB.
If you're optimising for budget, start at the lower-priced options and only move up when you hit a real limit. If output quality or team features matter more than price, the top picks above will save you time. When two options look close, try both free tiers on one real task before committing — the right fit is usually obvious within an hour.
FAQ
What is the best option in this list?
NordVPN is our default recommendation here; that said, a lower pick can be the smarter buy if its strengths map more closely to your job.
Are there free options?
Yes — Proton VPN offers a free plan or tier, so you can validate fit before paying. Check each entry's pricing line above.
How were these tools chosen?
Each pick is judged on fit for the specific job in this guide — its real strengths, pricing and who it suits — using features and facts drawn from independent reviews and the vendors' own documentation, cited in Sources below.
How often is this guide updated?
We revisit pricing and rankings regularly as vendors change plans and ship features.
Sources
The features, strengths and facts cited for each pick above are drawn from these independent reviews and vendor pages: