10 Best VPN for Personal Use Privacy
A VPN is a virtual private network, which is a secure and encrypted connection to the internet. Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, security and privacy have been hot topics.
Every day brings news of fresh data breaches. Remote work just makes the need for safe and secure connections that much more important.
Here are the top reasons I need a virtual private network for my personal use and privacy.
- I can securely browse the web while I am using public Wi-Fi. Without a VPN, I am vulnerable to hacking.
- With a VPN, I can avoid censorship concerns, particularly when I am in oppressive states of the world. With an effective VPN, I can automatically encrypt all the data that I send and receive. I can access prohibited content while making sure that nobody can track my online activity.
- I can bypass geographically based restrictions, so I can access the Netflix shows and other streaming content.
- With a VPN, I can play games on my PC or laptop without worrying about ISP throttling or other restrictions.
- I can anonymously download torrents from peer-to-peer networks with a VPN in place. A VPN guarantees my safety and security while I am torrenting.
- With a VPN, I can research controversial topics without censorship, interference, or restriction.
- I use Google Meet and Skype more often than ever before. My virtual private network encrypts my connection, protecting my communications from interception.
- My online privacy and security is my most important consideration, but I also want to protect my family. A VPN allows me to be more productive, with greater collaboration with friends, colleagues, and other members of my virtual network.
Hackers accessed more than 7.9 billion consumer accounts and personal records in 2019, which is more than doubled from 2018.
That’s why 26% of Americans use VPNs, and why I’m compelled to follow, test, and write about virtual private networks in technical news, and reviews.
Here are the top picks for VPN services, with details on why I have found them to be effective solutions.
Methodology
With so many VPN services to review and evaluate in the process of determining the best ones for personal use, I followed a comprehensive testing process.
Because I want to highlight the VPNs that will best serve my needs, I have reviewed the company profile as well as responsiveness and communication skills of their customer service.
I took special care to determine the ease-of-use and the speed of the VPN.
With so much focus on streaming, I tested each top VPN for Netflix availability.
Our methodology and testing processes are predicated upon the idea that the best VPN for Personal Use Privacy should be fast, reliable, and easy-to-use, while demonstrating all the support and functional requirements that helps to ensure I am getting the secure, private service I need.
Best VPN for Personal Use Privacy #1 – Express VPN
Express VPN is one of the best VPN services for personal use, but it is much more than that. Express VPN checks all the boxes. It was easy to install and use.
Compared to other VPNs I have tested, it works as anticipated, with a user-friendly interface. It is consistently regarded as a trusted leader and top performer.
It supports anonymous and secure online access, while delivering the reliable speeds I need for torrenting and gaming.
Express VPN for Desktop
What is the best VPN software for Windows? Express VPN offers a network of 160 server locations.
I have the speed, security, and reliability I need for my Windows computer no matter where I travel across 94 countries. Express VPN supports 12 languages.
I am not able to learn a whole lot about the company from their website, but I can find details about the features and benefits.
With Express VPN, I select which websites and apps to access, and I can also create shortcuts for services and apps.
Express VPN for Mobile
Which VPN is best for iPhone? Express VPN is built for iOS 10, 11, 12, and 13. It also works with iPad Pro, iPad 11, XS, and XR. Express VPN also supports private browsing capabilities with secure protection.
This level of security protects my data over unsecured networks no matter where in the world I travel.
What is the best VPN for Android? Express VPN supports Pie, Marshmallow, Oreo, Lollipop, Lollipop, and Android 10. Best-in-class privacy and security allows me to safely text, browse, and share photos and other data.
I can also access, stream, and browse content via my Android TV apps.
Express VPN for Home Entertainment
When asking about “What is the best VPN for Kodi?,” the answer is that Express VPN is one of the best for Kodi. The service is fast and reliable, with a great feature set for home entertainment.
Express VPN also offers the level of customer service and support that I need.
Which is the best free VPN for Firestick? Express VPN is one of the best solutions for Firestick, because it’s incredibly fast and secure with HD streaming.
I can even quickly setup and install on the Amazon Firestick. Then, I can easily access restricted shows no matter what my geographical location.
Which VPN is best for torrenting? Express VPN does not block torrent traffic, nor does it limit torrenting. Features like the kill switch and “zero-knowledge” DNS policy are tailored for torrenting.
It is the perfect solution to keep me safe from hackers, ISPs, or any other unwanted oversight.
What is the best VPN for gaming? Express VPN offers the speed, reliability, and that I need to support my online gaming experiences.
More than just the speed, the supports strong encryption levels allow me to access games that are geo-blocked and otherwise restricted.
I have more gaming options. Express VPN offers the consistently reliable support for my gaming console as well as other digital devices.
| Pros: One of the biggest pros is the 30-day money-back guarantee. I was able to try Express VPN before making the decision of whether to keep it as a permanent solution. Express VPN offers effective 24/7 support to answer any questions I have about the VPN and any other security issues. This VPN supports unrestricted streaming services across platforms: macOS, iOS, Windows, Linux, and Android. | Cons: Express VPN is not the cheapest option. It is the more expensive option, compared with other paid VPNs. This VPN does not support a VPN “kill switch.” The Amazon Firestick interface is not as user-friendly as it could be. Express VPN supports limited configurations and settings. The only support options are via email and chat. Express VPN does not appear to offer phone support. |
Best VPN for Personal Use Privacy #2 – Norton Secure VPN
Norton Secure VPN is one of the best VPN services for personal use. Norton is associated with security and anti-virus solutions, so it just makes sense that the VPN would be a powerful and secure privacy solution.
While it may have a high-powered name and it does have some nice features, I found gaps in what I would expect as standards for security and privacy.
Norton Secure VPN is tied to the System Tray. I can easily install the program, but I am limited. it connects automatically, and it launches at startup, but I am not able to adjust the settings.
Norton Secure VPN is designed and developed for users who want to install the program and forget it. The Norton Secure VPN is not ideal for somebody like me, who likes to tweak the settings.
Norton Secure VPN for Desktop
Norton Secure VPN supports Mac OS X, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7 (32 bit), Windows 7 (64 bit), and Windows Vista.
I’m able to protect my personal data via bank-grade encryption (standard AES-256) with unlimited data via a private network whether I’m on a Mac or PC. It’s quick and easy, without the fiddling.
Norton Secure VPN for Mobile
With its flexible subscription-pricing plans, Norton Secure VPN is a straightforward Android VPN but it’s lacking in performance.
It protects my privacy and it blocks ads, but the Android app is not as impressive or as advanced as other VPN options.
Norton Secure VPN for Home Entertainment
Norton Secure VPN is just not the best solution when it comes to torrenting, protecting my privacy, and streaming.
The VPN is inconsistent though. I am not able to bypass the streaming blocks for sites like Prime Video, BBC iPlayer Hulu, and Netflix; but I can stream other content.
Pros: Norton Secure VPN is easy to install and use. My experience with customer service was positive. It supports up to 10 simultaneous users across devices, with options for one or five. Norton is a brand I know and have used for virus protection in the past. The ad-tracking blocker is effective. Norton Secure VPN offers an industry-leading, 60-day money-back guarantee.It offers bank-grade encryption to protect my activity online. | Cons: Norton Secure VPN does not work well for Netflix and other streaming services. There is no “kill switch.”Norton Secure VPN logs usage data. Norton Secure VPN has a comparatively limited number of servers (a total of 1,500 servers in 29 countries). It only allows me to select the country, not a specific city. The speeds also vary by location.It does not mask my IPv6 address. Norton Secure VPN does not support anonymous subscription purchase. |
Best VPN for Personal Use Privacy #3 – FastestVPN
FastestVPN is one of the best VPN services for personal use. Although it is a recent addition to the list of top-rated VPNs, this VPN is already being favorably compared with NordVPN.
While I give it high marks for its ease of use, privacy features, and functionality, FastestVPN appears to need some time to mature.
Located in the Cayman Islands, it is not encumbered by international surveillance interference. It is reassuring to know that my privacy is being protected, with no data retention requirements.
Norton Secure VPN for Desktop
Norton Secure VPN supports Mac OS X, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.
| Pros: FastestVPN offers high-speed connections and unlimited bandwidths. It offers a kill switch to protect me when my Wi-Fi connection goes down. FastestVPN offers 24/7 live chat and email support, so I can access the tech team when I need them. They have no-logs and no-tracking policies. I can use up to 10 devices with a single license with 10 simultaneous connections and an unlimited number of server switches. FastestVPN offers a 7-day money-back guarantee, so I was able to test the service to verify how well it works for me. It is on the low-end of the pricing scale for VPN subscription services. | Cons: FastestVPN currently has 250 servers in only 37 countries. I am not able to get past the geoblocks for Netflix and other streaming services. I cannot access customer support via the phone. I was not able to get an immediate refund when I canceled my subscription. FastestVPN has limited split-tunneling capabilities. I do not appear to be able to simultaneously be on a public and a private network. |
Best VPN for Personal Use Privacy #4 – Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access is one of the best VPN services for personal use, with a wide collection of features and options that support me and my connection to the internet no matter where I am in the world.
With thousands of servers located around the world, this service offers the multiplatform support that I need, with advanced security and privacy options. Beyond the basic ad blocking, it is designed to meet my needs.
Private Internet Access for Desktop
What is the best VPN software for Windows? Private Internet Access is one of the best services for Windows, with compatibility for Windows 10 as well as Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows XP, and Vista.
So, it works well on even the older computers I have lying around the house. It also supports Mac OS X 10.7, 10.8, and 10.6.
Private Internet Access for Mobile
Which VPN is best for iPhone? What is the best VPN for Android? The Private Internet Access VPN supports mobile devices too, including Android OpenVPN (root), Android IPSEC/L2TP, and Android PPTP (2.3.4).
Private Internet Access is also compatible with iPhone/iTouch/iPad IPSEC/L2TP and iPhone/iTouch/iPad PPTP.
So, I am covered across devices. With the support for 10 simultaneous connections, that wide base of compatibility and support means that I can use it on every device, and my family can use it too.
Private Internet Access for Torrenting
Which VPN is best for torrenting? Private Internet Access is top-notch for torrenting.
With support for BitTorrent and P2P file sharing, it offers advanced, state of the art privacy protection and security via VPN tunneling. That protection goes beyond just the browser.
I am covered when I use applications as well. The Firewall and Encryption protect me against unsolicited snooping. But, then, would snooping ever be solicited?
Pros: Private Internet Access offers more than 3,000 servers across 29 countries. It is a safe and secure internet connection, with advanced security settings. I was able to test it and see if it worked for me via the 30-day money-back guarantee. The Private Internet Access service also unblocks websites that are geographically restricted, so I have uncensored access. It protects my identity with an anonymous VPN IP, so I can blend in. The installation was quick and easy. Private Internet Access supports 10 simultaneous users across multiple platforms and devices. | Cons: It could use a facelift to make it sleeker and easier-to-use. I was hoping for more advanced options.Mark Karpeles, CTO of Private Internet Access, was convicted of fraud and falsification. Kape Technologies announced that it acquired Private Internet Access in 2019.Private Internet Access does not appear to offer specialized servers. |
Best VPN for Personal Use Privacy #5 – Nord VPN
Nord VPN is one of the best VPN services for personal use. It is one of my top picks because it offers me the level of complete privacy and security that I want and need while I am working at home.
Beyond the basic ad blocker, it protects me from other web threats while enforcing my privacy. Nord VPN has the tools and support that sets it apart from most of its competition.
It was even awarded the “Best Overall Winner” for the 2019 ProPrivacy Awards. It’s got the network and the security features that make it stand out, even with its unfortunate hacking debacle.
Nord VPN for Desktop
What is the best VPN software for Windows? Nord VPN supports my use of Windows 10 as well as Windows 10 as well as Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows XP, and Windows Vista.
It appears to be the top choice for reliable internet access on my at-home PC, my work desktop, or with my on-the-go laptop setup. It offers a level of protection that I can take with me.
Nord VPN for Mobile
Which VPN is best for iPhone? What is the best VPN for Android? Nord VPN has apps for Android, Android TV, and iOS, with support for up to six devices at one time.
With that level of compatibility paired with the 5,7000 servers in 59 countries, and it is no wonder Nord VPN has been such a hot pick for so long.
Nord VPN has had the corner on reliable, secure, and fast connectivity no matter where I am with my smart phone or tablets.
Nord VPN for Home Entertainment
What is best VPN for Kodi? Nord VPN is an essential for a secure and enhanced streaming experience. It protects me from snooping while giving me full access to streams and 3rd party add-ons.
With the updated network of 5,700 servers and 24/7 streaming support, Nord VPN looks like a great choice for streaming Kodi.
Which is the best free VPN for Firestick? Nord VPN is one of the best solutions for Fire TV users, with the compatible application for easy installation and use.
It has double AES-256 encryption, the cipher tech used by banks, and the military. The Smart DNS feature prevents leak and supports torrenting.
Which VPN is best for torrenting? Nord VPN supports Tor connection and Multihop, so this VPN is a good solution for my torrenting.
They even offer me access to VPN servers that are optimized for faster P2P torrent connections. IP Tunneling hides my IP address and protects me from snooping and logs.
What is the best VPN for gaming? Nord VPN goes even further in privacy protection and security with its global coverage and high speeds.
Other features that sync with my gaming include the next-gen encryption, the on-the-go privacy, the no-logs policy, the support for up-to-6 devices, the many servers (5,400 servers in 59 countries), the IP masking, and the unlimited streaming that’s uninterrupted.
Nord VPN has been reviewed and praised by PCMag and CNET for its next-gen encryption.
While it’s long been one of the top go-to solutions for VPN providers, the data breach announced in October 2019 did raise some red flags.
That major hiccup has forced them to up their game and hunt down all potential issues. It may just be the thing that makes them better in the long run.
| Pros: The Nord VPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee policy, which allowed me to fully test the service. It has more than 5,400 servers in 59 countries around the world, which supports global security. The Nord VPN supports up to 6 simultaneous connections across platforms and devices. It effectively blocks ads, tracking, and other threats. The Nord VPN makes privacy a key part of its customer service policy. | Cons: For being a VPN, it’s not good that there are server security concerns, announced in 2019. (The company waited a year to announce the breach.) Nord VPN is not cheap. In fact, it is on the higher end of the VPN pricing structure for the best services. |
Best VPN for Personal Use Privacy #6 – TunnelBear VPN
TunnelBear VPN is one of the best VPN services for personal use. It was recognized as an Editor’s Choice winner. Based in Canada, TunnelBear is quick-and-easy to install and use.
I can browse, stream, and work no matter where I am in the world. MacAfee acquired TunnelBear in 2018 and integrated functionality from the product into its Safe Connect VPN product.
TunnelBear continues to develop and release the TunnelBear VPN under its own brand.
The next logical question might be: Which is the best free VPN? TunnelBear VPN has a free-service version, although it would be tough to keep my activity within the 500MB/month of data.
If I only used the TunnelBear VPN for limited online activity, I might stay within the limit.
Vigilant Mode blocks unsecured traffic and prevents data leaks, with an auto-disconnect (kill-switch) from my Wi-Fi connection.
TunnelBear VPN for Desktop
What is the best VPN software for Windows? TunnelBear VPN works with Windows 10 as well as Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows XP, and Windows Vista with browser extension options for Opera and Chrome.
It offers me the VPN protection I need even when I connect to an unfamiliar and untrusted network. It appears to be a decent solution for me to use on an individual.
TunnelBear VPN uses the OpenVPN protocol as the recommended default option.
TunnelBear for Mobile
Which VPN is best for iPhone? What is the best VPN for Android? TunnelBear VPN works with Android and iOS.
The automatic activation offers protection for my online access and browsing. The VPN service is light and easy-to-use, with affordable options that give me the mobile protection I need.
| Pros: TunnelBear offers a free version (500MD/month of data).It is easy to install TunnelBear and set it up, with a user-friendly design. TunnelBear has 900 servers in 20 countries.I can use up to 5 devices with one account. I can pick which elements to block. TunnelBear has great privacy policies. | Cons: Access to the full range of servers in 20 countries is not possible with the free version. The number of servers is minimal compared to other VPNs. TunnelBear does not allow BitTorrent or P2P sharing. When I access sites, my speeds are affected by as much as 50%. TunnelBear has limited advanced features. |
Best VPN for Personal Use Privacy #7 – Avast SecureLine VPN
Avast SecureLine VPN is one of the best VPN services for personal use. Located in the Czech Republic, Avast is a worldwide security company, known for cleanup utilities and antivirus software.
They have been in business since 1988. Now more than ever, Avast SecureLine VPN offers a secure connection and real privacy, so that I am free from the dangers of snooping no matter where I am at home, at work, or on-the-go.
Avast SecureLine VPN for Desktop
What is the best VPN software for Windows? Avast SecureLine VPN works with Windows 10 as well as Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows XP.
I can encrypt my connection with the click of a button. It is the level of real privacy protection that I need, with DNS leak protection, no logging, and the speeds that I need.
Avast SecureLine VPN for Mobile
Which VPN is best for iPhone? What is the best VPN for Android? Avast SecureLine VPN works with Android, iOS, and Android TV. It is the best way to anonymously browse and access sites no matter where I am in the world.
With good speeds in testing and a free version, it is a trusted brand and it adds another security to my mobile communication and activities.
Pros: I can use Avast SecureLine VPN over 5 devices with one subscription. The brand company is well-knownAvast SecureLine VPN is easy to install and setup. I can call them when I have a question or concern. Avast SecureLine VPN offers a 7-day money-back guarantee, so I can fully test the VPN. | Cons: The Avast SecureLine VPN only has 54 servers in 34 countries. They keep logs usage data for improvements and performance. Avast SecureLine VPN has several options for subscription plans, but it is not the most economical. I do not appear to have access to settings for advanced features. |
Best VPN for Personal Use Privacy #8 – Panda VPN
Panda VPN is one of the best VPN services for personal use. Founded in Bilbao, Spain, Panda Security has been around since 1990.
It started out with antivirus software, but they now offer a range of offerings, including firewall applications, cyber crime prevention tech, and other tools.
Like Avira, Avast, and Bitdefender, Panda Security is better known for its security and antivirus products, but a logical progression was to launch a VPN service.
When I downloaded Panda VPN, it came with its complete cloud-based antivirus suite. So, I can tap into a greater range of the services that Panda offers. I am also impressed by the user base of 30 million users.
That number reflects the trust that has been placed in Panda over the years and offers a level of reassurance that I will get the customer support and service that I need.
It protects my devices and the VPN protects my online traffic.
Panda VPN for Desktop
What is the best VPN software for Windows? Panda VPN is compatible with Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, and Windows 10.
With unlimited bandwidth and unlimited server switches, Panda VPN supports free and secure VPN services without detection for dropped connections.
So, it is easy-to-use and is a great value compared with its competitors. It does not offer advanced features, nor does it have a “kill switch,” but it features Hotspot Shield technology.
Panda VPN for Mobile
Which VPN is best for iPhone? What is the best VPN for Android? Panda VPN works with Android and iOS to protect me from Wi-Fi networks, and secure my device from unwanted snooping.
I can browse safely and even access blocked sites.
| Pros: It is easy to install and setup this VPN. It has 256-bit encryption. Panda VPN does not maintain connection logs. It does not collect, store, or share personally identifiable data. I can access 24/7 tech support, with a phone support option. Panda VPN offers a 7-day money-back guarantee, so I can fully test the VPN. I can access any kind of content (social media, TV shows, and videos). | Cons: Panda VPN is not ideal for gaming. The speeds are disappointing, particularly for streaming.I do not appear to be able to access advanced features for adjustable functionality. Panda VPN supports up to 3 devices under one subscription.It does not appear to have a “kill switch.”Panda VPN uses virtual servers. |
Best VPN for Personal Use Privacy #9 – AVG Secure VPN
AVG Secure VPN is one of the best VPN services for personal use. AVG was first founded in 1990 under the name Grisoft in the Czech Republic. It was acquired by Avast for $1.6 billion in July 2016.
The company is a recognized brand name for antivirus and security products, but it also has software offerings that allow me to detect, prevent, and run analysis on threats.
They have an active user base of 200 million, and they use Avast SecureLine’s infrastructure.
AVG Secure VPN for Desktop
What is the best VPN software for Windows? The AVG Secure VPN works with Windows 10 as well as Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows XP. I can facilitate online payments, banking, and browsing no matter where I am.
My online computer activities remain private and secure from government snooping, my ISP, and from hackers. It is a simple and powerful VPN service with military-grade 256-bit AES encryption.
AVG Secure VPN for Mobile
Which VPN is best for iPhone? What is the best VPN for Android? The AVG Secure VPN works with Android and iOS. It is a no-fuss and no-hassle solution.
I need secure access for my online shopping, chatting, banking, and browsing on my mobile device. I can use my phone for any activity no matter where I am with protection from the AVG Secure VPN.
My activity is untrackable and invisible, which presents the nuisance of those individuals who would like to see what I do online.
AVG Secure VPN for Home Entertainment
The AVG Secure VPN service offers fast, economical, and secure access, with standard protection. It is not compatible with routers, so it does not work with PlayStation 4 or other similar devices.
The AVG Secure VPN service does not support the international usage of Netflix. With its drawbacks, it’s not an ideal solution for gaming or streaming.
Pros: The AVG Secure VPN service offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so I can fully test the VPN.I can simultaneously use the AVG Secure VPN on up to 5 devices. The AVG Secure VPN service supports access to Netflix from other international locations.The AVG Secure VPN has military-grade 256-bit AES encryption. | Cons: The AVG Secure VPN speeds are inconsistent.This VPN is not ideal for gaming or streaming.The AVG Secure VPN is lacking in customized security features. There does not appear to be a “kill switch.”The AVG Secure VPN has more than 50 servers in 36 countries.It is more expensive than competitors. |
Best VPN for Personal Use Privacy #10 – F-secure Freedome VPN
F-Secure Freedome VPN is one of the best VPN services for personal use. With more than 30 years of experience, F-Secure Corporation (formerly Data Fellows) is based in Helsinki, Finland.
F-Secure offers award-winning cyber security solutions, with offices in 20 countries. Their software solutions include a range of products around endpoint security, antivirus, cyber security, and password management.
The F-Secure Freedome VPN is the perfect solution for anonymous and private surfing, which is why it is consistently ranked as one of the top VPN options for private security by the experts.
It secures my connections and removes geo-blocking restrictions. I can securely connect to virtual locations no matter where I am in the world, with 24/7 support.
F-Secure Freedom VPN for Desktop
What is the best VPN software for Windows? The F-Secure Freedome VPN works with Windows 10 as well as Windows 8.1, Windows 7 (SP1), and Windows XP.
The concept of a smooth user experience is at the heart of the F-Secure Freedome VPN user experience, but it also offers protection options beyond just browsing.
I have parental control, ransomware and antivirus protection, a password manager, tracking protection, and free customer support.
F-Secure Freedom VPN for Mobile
Which VPN is best for iPhone? What is the best VPN for Android? The F-Secure Freedome VPN works with Android 5.0 and iOS.
It is designed to be super simple, but that also means that I do not have advanced options for the mobile VPN. What it does offer is safety and security on my tablets and smartphones.
I am protected from hackers and advertisers, so they cannot track my activities or sell my data. I can shop, browse, and conduct all my banking business in peace and security without the hassle.
I can protect my mobile devices from hacker attacks, spyware, viruses, identity theft, and any other malicious or inappropriate assaults with this VPN.
The F-Secure Freedome VPN offers protection for me and my family, with options to remotely lock, locate, and/or erase a missing tablet or smartphone.
| Pros: The F-Secure Freedome VPN is fast and easy to set up. It has an easy-friendly interface. The F-Secure Freedome VPN offers protection from phishing and malware, along with ad-blocker functionality.I can simultaneously use the F-Secure Freedome VPN on up to 7 devices. The F-Secure Freedome VPN hides my IP address for greater security and privacy. This service offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so I can fully test the VPN. | Cons: The F-Secure Freedome VPN does not offer monthly billing options. The F-Secure Freedome VPN offers inconsistent speeds.It is not a good choice for streaming. I am not able to watch Netflix, ABC, ViaPLay, Rai, CMORE, or other streaming services. |