Best VPN for Windows 2024
There are many factors to consider when choosing a virtual private network, including device support, privacy features, internet speed, and price. Here are the main factors to consider when choosing the best VPN for Windows.
Device compatibility
Most VPNs offer apps for Windows. You may have other devices, including phones, tablets, and streaming devices that you want to install a VPN on. You’ll find that nearly all VPN providers offer Windows, MacOS, Android, and iOS/iPadOS apps, but some platforms (such as Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, and Linux GUI apps) are less common. If you have an ARM-based Windows device (such as the Microsoft Surface Pro), you may want to consider a VPN provider that supports Windows ARM. Providers such as NordVPN, Proton VPN, Surfshark, ExpressVPN, and PIA offer ARM apps. Think about the non-Windows gadgets you want to use a VPN with, and make sure your desired provider has an app.
privacy
Privacy is one of the main reasons for using a VPN. At a minimum, we recommend using AES 256-bit encryption (for OpenVPN and IKEv2 VPN protocol) or ChaCha20 (WireGuard), a kill switch and a strict no-logs policy. The no-logging claim is difficult to verify with absolute certainty—you can and should be skeptical—but it’s reassuring. Third-party auditing increases transparency while enabling log-free assertions. You may find split tunneling useful, which allows you to use the VPN with some applications but not others. For example, you can use a VPN outside the UK to stream The Jetty on BBC iPlayer while downloading Red Dead Redemption II on Steam without affecting your download speeds.
Internet speed drops
all VPNs can slow down your internet Download and upload speeds, because your data is not only transmitted through the Internet service provider’s servers, but also encrypted through the VPN provider’s servers. Some companies are faster than others. this Fastest VPN Offering minimal speed penalty of 25% or less, it’s ideal for bandwidth-intensive activities such as 4K video streaming, uploading videos to YouTube and online competitive gaming.
server network
A robust server network allows you to find your ideal connection. You need a lot of servers and a lot of individual country lists. VPN companies with fewer servers overall but more independent countries may be better suited for travel because you have a wider range of countries to choose from. The best VPNs for Windows, including ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, and Proton VPN, offer 100 or more servers.
Content unlocked
In addition to privacy, many people use VPNs to circumvent regional restrictions. Whether it’s unblocking streaming content, such as accessing the UK Netflix library in the US, or avoiding annoying but necessary verification codes when traveling abroad, a VPN has you covered. For streaming, you’ll want to make sure your VPN works with the service you require, e.g. NetflixDisney+, Hulu or Amazon Prime Video. This way you can Use a VPN to watch Netflix movies or shows from abroad This way you can get your Host Frosty or Bridgerton fix from anywhere in the world. Some services, such as Netflix and Disney Plus, allow you to access libraries of foreign content, and country-specific streaming services may be unblocked from abroad. For example, you can use a VPN to stream NFL games outside of your market, making it appear that you’re in a different location. You can even Save money by streaming with a VPN.
customer support
Especially if you’re new to VPNs, a robust help guide and FAQ section make it easier to get help. We appreciate the companies that provided detailed installation instructions and troubleshooting tips. For more advanced help, whether you’re experiencing connectivity issues or have billing questions, 24/7 live chat online or by phone is a great option.
price
VPN costs range from $10 per month to $100 per year. Generally speaking, you can save money by purchasing a one-year subscription, and you can get a bigger discount by purchasing a two- or three-year subscription. Despite the lower cost, we recommend avoiding multi-year plans because things change so quickly in the VPN world. Your provider might start out offering fast speeds and great privacy features, but it might suffer a data breach or be acquired by a shady company. To get the most value with the least risk, stick to an annual plan. On the high end, companies charge $90 to $100 per year, while a good-value VPN costs about $40 to $60 per year. Often, companies will offer you a great introductory price for your first year of service and then increase the price. If you renew during a sale (like around Black Friday or Cyber ​​Monday), you may still get a great deal.
