13 Best VPN Services for PC and Android in 2023 (Ultimate Guide)

VPN can make a secure online experience for you. But not all VPN services are equal. It varies in quality, price, or usability.

So you should make a lot of research before purchasing one. Good news! Here I did some research for you.

I made a list of the best VPN services for PC and Android; however, it covers all devices and operating systems as well.

I also quoted which VPN is perfect for whom. I mentioned the features of the best VPN so that you can also decide for yourself.

10 best VPN comparison chart

What are the best VPN services for PC and Android? 

You can identify the best VPN services by knowing some specific features and quality requirements. It includes server locations, server size and number, speed, privacy, and lots more. Based on performance, I made a loss of the best VPN services. 

1. NordVPN 

NordVPN is a reliable option with many features that meet o lots of standards of a quality VPN. It works great on both Macs and Windows. 

It has a large and varied collection of servers, strong privacy and security, the latest WireGuard technology, and an arsenal of rarely seen tools. The company has worked to improve its infrastructure security.

A variety of additional tools makes it more special, which provides a large-scale improvement of your privacy. NordVPN provides direct access to the Tor anonymization network, there is only another company that provides this called ProtonVPN. It makes it harder to trace your connection, and it lets you access deep and dark websites, through a strong secure connection.

NordVPN lets you select one from a list of 59 countries, which gives you a particular IP address from those countries. The majority of NordVPN's servers are in the US and the UK, but NordVPN maintains its server from all around the world, covering several locations across Asia, South America, Europe, and India.

There are about 5,300 servers available for NordVPN, which is second only to CyberGhost's network of 5,900 servers around the world. There is some correlation between the quality of service and the number of servers, and the total number of servers is a clear reflection of how popular the service is. It is my top priority for PC users; however, the mobile version is enough good for Android users. 

Key Feature

1. Dedicated torrenting profile: Yes, P2P specialty servers are available
2. Works with: Netflix (multiple libraries), Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Vudu, Amazon Prime Video, SkyTV, Disney+, and many others
3. Available on: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, and routers
4. Data logging: Strict no-logs policy
5. Money-back guarantee: 30 days

try NordVPN now

2. ExpressVPN 

ExpressVPN has a huge network, plus its fast secure unblock Netflix and just about everything else, supports torrents, able to unblock all sorts of region-locked content, bypass Firewall, and quickly download files. In short, this is a quality VPN that provides awesome service in just about every area.

It boasts better performance when it comes to streaming. Top-notch platform support for Windows, Mac, Linux and also includes apps Android, iOS. 

ExpressVPN has a wide distribution of servers across the globe, and that is nearly 3,000 servers across 94 countries. Among top VPNs, ExpressVPN provides the best balance of hardware and virtual servers.

In addition to having lots of server locations, it also maintains geographical diversity, with several in Africa and excellent coverage across South America. Those two continents are often ignored by other VPN companies. 

By using its own DNS servers, it protects your internet traffic and high-end encryption technologies prevent even the most advanced attackers. A clever split-tunneling system allows you to control app preference to use the VPN.

A clear and simple privacy policy declares that ExpressVPN doesn't log any sensitive information of its valuable user. It uses a 4096-bit SHA-512 RSA certificate to encrypt its control channel and HMAC protecting against regular data being altered in real-time.

Key Feature

1. Dedicated torrenting profile: No (but all servers support P2P activity)
2. Works with: Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Disney+, HBO NOW, Spotify, Amazon Prime Video, and many others
3. Available on: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Chromebook, Kindle Fire, browsers, and routers
4. Data logging: Strict no-logs policy
5. Money-back guarantee: 30 days

try expressvpn now

3. Surfshark 

Surfshark, great for Netflix and torrenting, is claimed to be the best overall VPN. It has a great reputation for anonymous browsing, staying safe on public WiFi, and security protocols to its device compatibility, unlimited connections, and customer support. It performs well with PCs and some large screen devices.

Surfshark has a lot of additional privacy features and no limits on the number of devices that can use a single account, making it an excellent value. The company is also very transparent.

Surfshark covers 64 countries with its servers, which is above average. Surfshark also offers servers in countries with having issues with internet policies, including China, Russia, Turkey, and Vietnam. 

Surfshark running its service through 1,724 servers. Entering the market in 2018 as a newbie Surfshark is moving fast to establish itself with its extremely good service. It also has more configurable privacy add-ons than some massive companies. 

Its encryption is standard AES-256-GCM, and it frequently changes encryption keys to avoid security issues. It offers a useful kill switch feature to prevent network data from leaking outside in case of fails to connect properly.

It does not log IP addresses, browsing history, amount of bandwidth used, or network traffic. If you submit a refund request within time (30-days), you will receive a full refund. 

Key Feature

1. Dedicated torrenting profile: No (P2P is allowed on all servers)
2. Works with: Netflix, Hulu, SkyTV, Fox Go, BBC iPlayer, DAZN, Spotify, and more
3. Available on: Windows, Mac, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, FireTV, Apple TV, and more
4. Data logging: Strict no-logs policy
5. Money-back guarantee: 30 days

try surfshark now

4. CyberGhost 

CyberGhost is one of the cheapest VPN among major providers. If you intend to get a longer plan, CyberGhost's cheapest plan is for you. You will get a speedy connection with strong security just by spending less.

A recent report shows that CyberGhost's delivered speeds of 160-180Mbps and 180-240Mbps respectively from UK and US.

CyberGhost is a Romanian and German-based privacy company that provides VPN services for more than 10 million users. Nearly 110 worldwide locations across 89 countries boast 5,900 servers. CyberGhost is also in the top position when it comes to the number of servers. 

CyberGhost VPN is not collecting connection logs. It doesn't support P2P in all locations, but there has a list to indicate it.

It offers an industry-leading 45-day money-back guarantee. Monthly plans, however, come with only a 14-day guarantee.

Key Feature

1. Dedicated torrenting profile: Yes
2. Works with: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Kodi, Spotify, Vudu, Crunchyroll, and others
3. Available on: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, browsers, streaming devices, and routers
4. Data logging: Strict no-logs policy
5. Money-back guarantee: Up to 45 days

try cyberghostvpn now

5. Private Internet Access 

Private Internet Access (PIA) is a widely popular VPN service. U.S-based VPN Company was founded by Andrew Lee in 2009 as an entrepreneur. Today PIA boasts over 100,000 users. 

A kill switch is also included in its system, which works as disconnect protection. By using this website will automatically shut down if your connection to the VPN is lost. Then you are still protected while using a public network. 

It owns over 3,194 servers and it serves 33 countries. Private Internet Access supports OpenVPN. You're able to access via Windows, Mac, Android, iOS and Linux, and extensions.

Extras range from the simple and straightforward to the more low-level and a SOCKS5 proxy for extra speed, port forwarding support, the ability to select your preferred encryption, authentication, and handshaking methods, and there's 24/7 to help solve any problems.

PIA's almost all apps are open source. Developers can check out the source code on GitHub. Codes are available for Windows clients, browser extensions, iOS, Android apps, and more.

Private Internet Access sometimes gathers, "username, IP address, and data usage," and deletes that information as soon as the connection is disconnected by the user. 30-days money-back guarantee is offered to keep tension-free transactions. 

Key Feature

1. Dedicated torrenting profile: No (P2P is allowed on all servers)
2. Works with: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Crunchyroll, HBO Go, HBO Now, Disney+, Hulu, Showtime, and SkyTV
3. Available on: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, PS4/Xbox, and routers
4. Data logging: Strict no-logs policy
5. Money-back guarantee: 30 days

try privateinternetaccess now

6. PrivateVPN 

PrivateVPN is a Sweden-based established VPN. It offers a secure service and a multiple device service which allows the use of up to six devices simultaneously. It is perfect for unblocking Netflix and other streaming services with its dynamic dedicated IP addresses.

Though the number of countries covered is good enough, it has a less total number of servers available compared to other providers. Users can get benefit from 150+ servers in over 60 countries around the world. It offers 7,000+ individual IP addresses.

However, PrivateVPN is a younger firm, it expanding the number of servers and more quality services gradually. It is considered a highly useful VPN for large families that have VPN facilities for several phones, tablets, and laptops, both at home and when using public WiFi.

PrivateVPN is a simple VPN that is great for torrenting and streaming and the Firestick app works with sites like Netflix. It uses secure AES-256 encryption protocols. Also have native apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Amazon Fire TV.

Though Windows and macOS are providing kill switches, unfortunately, Android and iOS don't have such facilities. PrivateVPN operates its own DNS servers.

In short, PrivateVPN is an awesome VPN that unblocks a huge amount of streaming services and secures your internet connection at a lower cost. You can try its 7-day free trial and also can get a 30-day money-back guarantee with a full package purchase. 

Key Feature

1. Dedicated torrenting profile: No, but P2P traffic is allowed on all servers
2. Works with: Netflix, Sling TV, Fox Go, Hulu, Vudu, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer
3. Available on: Windows, Mac, Linux, iPhone, iPad, Android, and routers
4. Data logging: Strict no-logs policy
5. Money-back guarantee: 30 days

try privatevpn now

7. VyprVPN 

VyprVPN is one of the popular VPN services owned by Switzerland-based Golden Frog. It can unblock Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu. They are covering more than 700 servers in 60 countries around the world.

VyprVPN uses 256-bit AES encryption to ensure user security. Its zero-knowledge DNS clarified that it does not collect logs of what you are doing online. Besides 256-bit AES VyprVPN also uses a variety of encryption protocols including OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec, PPTP, and Chameleon. 

There is no bandwidth limit on VyprVPN. It also boasts over 200,000 IP addresses, which allows for a higher connection rate. And the most impressive thing is about the servers because VyprVPN owns all their servers. 

It allows Windows, Mac OS, and Android, and everything is working well without any problem. In years past, VyprVPN kept connection logs for 30 days, but a few years back it changed its policies to no-logs VPN.

All VyprVPN plans come with a full 30-day money-back guarantee and you can test out the VPN without any risk.

Key Feature

1. Dedicated torrenting profile: No
2. Works with: Netflix, HBO NOW, Sling TV, Sky Go, Hulu, Vudu, and Amazon Prime Video
3. Available on: Windows, Mac, iOs, Android, smart TVs, and routers
4. Data logging: Strict no-logs policy
5. Money-back guarantee: 30 days

try vyprvpn now

8. HMA 

HMA (Hide My Ass) is a famous UK-based VPN provider with a large client base and serving for a long time. 

HMA VPN has over 1,100 servers in 190 countries worldwide, which makes it a great option for anybody to unblock geographically restricted content with secure privacy. Popular streaming services like iPlayer and Netflix US can easily be unblocked with it.

Over 280 locations in 190 countries, HMA has servers in unusual places like the Falkland Islands, Papua New Guinea, Malawi, Serbia, and many more besides usual locations. If the IP address you are using is suddenly blocked by a service, the IP refresh tool helps you to get a new IP address in the same location.

The majority of servers are capable of delivering speeds of 20Gb per second, showing excellent performance. If you want the fastest VPN, you can choose this one.

HMA supports OpenVPN, PPTP, and L2TP VPN protocols. Kill switch is available for Mac, Windows, and Android to keep your identity still secure, in case of an unfortunate connection lost to VPN.

IP shuffle feature automatically changes your IP as you defined previously. It also uses OpenSSL with algorithms 3DES, AES 256, RC5, 256-bit encryption making it super secure.

HMA has a great customer support system and a strong knowledge base and has declared a strict no-log policy. You will get a 30-day money-back guarantee with few conditions.

Key Feature

1. Dedicated torrenting profile: Yes, designated high-speed P2P servers
2. Works with: Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video
3. Available on: Windows, Android, macOS, iOS, Linux, Routers
4. Data logging: Strict no-logs policy
5. Money-back guarantee: 30 days

try hma now

9. TunnelBear 

TunnelBear is Canada based VPN Company, providing services around the world, including servers in North and South America, Europe, Asia, and Australia and that's about over 350 VPN servers in 23 countries. It was founded by Ryan Dochuk and Daniel Kaldor in 2011.

TunnelBear secures your internet connection through AES-256 bit encryption and 256-bit AES encryption for data protection. Your internet protocol identity will be changed through it. It also supports OpenVPN protocol, and OpenVPN is recommended by default.

OpenVPN industry-standard protocol perfectly works on Windows, Mac, and Android devices. Kill switch is also available on Windows, Mac, and Android. OpenVPN and IKEv2 are for Windows, OpenVPN on macOS and Android, and IPSec/IKEv2 protocols for iOS, which TunnelBear is using.

TunnelBear also offers a free version. However, the free version has limited bandwidth. As P2P is enabled, TunnelBear works fine with torrenting. Netflix is getting better all the time at blocking VPNs, so here are some issues with TunnelBear. 

Nearly everything is perfect, but you won't get any money-back guarantee as you get a free version to try this out.

Key Feature

1. Dedicated torrenting profile: No, but servers support P2P connections
2. Works with: HBO Go, Spotify
3. Available on: Windows, Android, macOS, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, and Opera
4. Data logging: Strict no-logs policy
5. Money-back guarantee: No

try tunnelbear now

10. UltraVPN

UltraVPN is a UK-based VPN provider launched by Network Protect Limited. In 2006 it started its journey in the United Kingdom. Now it operates its service for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android through its server in a different parts of the world. 

The desktop app is the primary and has the most organized VPN features. Killswitch is to protect against unnecessary connections lost. DNS leak protection and strong OpenVPN encryption are supported. The mobile app is not so rich compared to the Desktop version.

UltraVPN allows you to stream in HD, maintaining a higher speed. UltraVPN can unblock Netflix and BBC iPlayer, as well as permit torrenting. However, the privacy policy states that it keeps some connection logs. 

It has over 100 servers across 58 countries, and it is considered not too much compared with other providers. But it has a strong security system and speed is also good enough. 256-bit encryption and an automatic kill switch make a VPN much stronger and more reliable, which UltraVPN uses.

Its most servers support P2P, which makes torrenting habits more pleasurable. Besides Netflix and BBC iPlayer is also able to unblock Hulu and HBO GO. But sometimes it depends on particular locations.

Though the UltraVPN website claims the service has a zero-logging policy, there are some issues to further investigate. You will get 24/7 customer support via different channels from experts.

You shouldn't have to worry about its service with such the cheapest price, just get it and try it out for 30-days. If you don't like it, you will get a full refund.

Key Feature

1. Dedicated torrenting profile: No
2. Works with: Netflix, Hulu, Crunchyroll, HBO Go, HBO Now, and ESPN
3. Available on: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, FireTV, web browsers, and routers
4. Data logging: Yes, IP address, device information, and device location
5. Money-back guarantee: 30 days

try ultravpn now

11. IPVanish 

IPVanish was founded in 1999 by Mudhook Media Inc in the US, Florida. It has a large scale of servers around 1,300 and over 40,000 IP addresses worldwide. The company owns 90% of its data centers and serves quality service. The data center is located in over 75 countries.

IPVanish has gained a reputation as one of the top VPN providers in the marketplace very quickly. Most of its servers are located in Europe and North America. IPVanish is compatible with approximately every device and operating system and is preferred for Windows, Mac OS, Android, IOS, and Fire TV. 

IPVanish also uses the AES-256 encryption protocol, basically the strongest encryption system of all. It works great with different connections like Wi-Fi, LTE, 4G, and 3G network. It allows 10 simultaneous device connections.

IPVanish offers a kill switch like other major providers. IPVanish also allows users to use protocols including OpenVPN as well as PPTP, and L2TP. OpenVPN is configured by default. Proxy server protocol known as SOCKS or Socket Security is offered by IPVanish to its user. 

The company declares a no-log policy on its website. You will get a full 30-day money-back guarantee during purchase.

try ipvanish now

12. Encrypt.me 

Cloak VPN was founded in 2011, and later in 2017, the company changed its name to Encrypt.me. It is a US-based company running with over 100 servers in 60 different locations around the world. It was founded by Microsoft veterans Dave Peck, Nick Robinson, and Peter Sagerson.

It is under the Five Eyes international surveillance agreement, which means some of the user data can be requested by the government as necessary. It logs some user data for 16 days which is not a good practice, but Encrypt.me also clarified that logs are deleted after 16 days. 

It doesn't offer user choice of protocol, so Mac and Android users are bound to use OpenVPN. similarly, IPSec is for Windows and iOS users. Kill switch is available, but not for Windows users.

Encrypt.me developed apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. It can unblock BBC iPlayer and US Netflix. Encrypt.me uses 256-bit AES encryption with all its applications. 

It offers a 30-day money-back guarantee while you purchase through the website. It has a knowledge base or online chat to know a lot more about it.

try encript.me now

13. Hotspot Shield 

Hotspot Shield also can be another good choice for VPN users. It is a popular VPN service that gained the trust of over 650 million users. Speed is good enough and able to unblock the most popular streaming sites. What I found its strengths include user-friendly dedicated apps, P2P support, and responsive 24/7 live chat support.

Since 2005 is growing faster and providing services for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. It also has extensions for Chrome and Firefox. It offers you a free version if you don't initially afford to Premium version. If you like torrenting, then Hotspot Shield will help you.

It can unblock popular streaming services like Hulu, and Amazon Prime besides Netflix, and BBC iPlayer. But you should keep in mind that not every server can do this. It serves its service in over 55 countries. 

Hotspot Shield has a zero-log policy, which will ensure you do not log your activity and user information. It doesn't include any ad-blocking service. Hotspot Shield is using an AES 256-bit encryption system and you will get standard protocol.

Customer support is not enough good. However, I like their lengthy money-back guarantee period (45-day). You can try it without any risk.

try hotspotshield now

What is a VPN? How VPN Keep You Safe Online!

VPN or Virtual Private Network is a kind of software that allows users a "private" Internet connection, where their web traffic and activity will be hidden in an encrypted tunnel, and their IP addresses will be replaced by another one. 

Connecting to private servers, it makes a higher chance to protect user-information from being hacked, while using a public Wi-Fi network using PC or mobile devices. It also allows users to permit to visit some web content that is restricted by location.

VPN for PC and Android: What Can I Use Them For?

There are several things you can use a VPN for, including:

Security on public networks:

There is more chance to attack by hackers when you use public Wi-Fi networks. To change your IP address by using a VPN, you can secure your internet browsing.

Access private networks:

VPN with split tunneling allows users to access public and private networks simultaneously. So you can ensure your private network from home or office.

Increased security for e-commerce:

It is too risky to make any online transaction that you are not so familiar with. First, you have to identify website SSL and other security issues of those websites. VPN will give you extra security about your financial steps. 

Hide data from marketers:

It's no secret that large tech companies like Google and Facebook make billions of dollars by selling user data to third-party advertisers to create targeted ads. There is no proper law to protect this, and they do this thing very securely. To connect a VPN is the only way to avoid having your data tracked and sold online.

Access international content:

Maybe you want to see what Netflix is like in India, or maybe you're in a country that doesn't allow Netflix at all. Whatever the reason, using a VPN can give you access to that content just by using their IP address.

Activism:

Some journalists, activists, or whistleblowers use a VPN to hide their identities while researching or writing. That helps to avoid the threat and make independence. 

Avoid hackers:

Hackers can easily track you using your IP address. When you use an alternative IP address, it will protect you from being hacked. You will be free to browse your internet session securely. 

Torrent files:

Torrenting is often in a legal gray area, and while we can't support illegal torrenting. Many people use VPNs to download movies and TV shows that they otherwise wouldn't have access to.

Maintain your anonymity online:

From ads to cookies, the act of being online means that your data is at stake. While we can't remain completely anonymous online, VPN can help you to hide your web activity and your IP address from view.

Can a VPN Track You Online?

The entire point of downloading a VPN in the first place is to ensure your online anonymity, but some VPN save your data. Many VPN will save other information about their users, which can include:

However, before you sign up, we recommend to you read the terms and privacy policy to make sure they don't log your web activity.

• The amount of data the user used during connection to the VPN.
• The user's personal information like their name, address, payment information, email, phone number, country, etc.
• The large majority of VPNs will not track their users online in terms of the sites they visit, or any of their web traffic or activity.

The Limitations of VPN Services

While VPNs are certainly useful for millions of people, they also have their disadvantages. Those can be included: 

Slower speeds:

You may face a slower speed while using a VPN connection. By having your data go through an additional server, you may experience decreases in download and upload speeds. 

You are under the law:

VPN doesn't give you the legal right to perform illegal activities online. For example, may not be able to torrent copyrighted material or go to websites that are illegal in your country's law. 

Security issues:

Though VPN gives you extra security, it will not always protect you from government interruption. VPN's headquarters are based on a Five Eyes, Nine Eyes, or 14 Eyes country; they can hand over customer information to the government. So while most VPNs hide your web traffic, total invisibility online isn't possible most of the time.

How do I choose the best VPN for PC or Android? 

So your choice of VPN will come down to some specific features, which we've outlined below.

Streaming:

Would you like to stream movies and different TV shows from services like Netflix, HBO Go, and Hulu? Not all VPN servers will allow you to stream these kinds of services. So you want to make sure before buying. 

Simultaneous connections:

Does it define how many devices can be connected to a VPN at once? Although connecting to multiple devices at once can cause slowdowns, it allows you to cover a large family or workplace. So make sure your VPN allows you sufficient simultaneous connections.

Split tunneling:

If you need to access a private network while using the Wi-Fi from a public network, look for a VPN with split tunneling.

Jurisdiction:

You may want to look for a VPN based in a country that includes a non-member to Five Eyes, Nine Eyes, and 14 Eyes, indicating they can't be legally forced to hand over customer data to the government.

Privacy policy:

The majority of VPN providers say that they have a "zero-logging" policy, but sometimes it can be supported by policy. So read the VPN's privacy policy to find out which pieces of data they collect.

Encryption:

I prefer providers that use the latest encryption methods like AES-256. AES-128 is outdated.

Multi-factor authentication:

If multi-factor authentication is enabled on your VPN account, hackers won't be able to access your account just by hacking your username and password. This system sends a unique code to your mobile device or uses your fingerprint or facial recognition to log in to prevent unauthorized access.

Location:

If you want to maintain first speed then choose a VPN service that has a server near the locations you'll be using it. 

Company headquarters:

You should avoid companies based in countries that are members of Five Eyes, Nine Eyes, and 14 Eyes, the international surveillance alliances. That forces companies to hand over customer data to the government.

For example, in the United States, a Five Eyes member, the government has forced companies to give them information about customers. I recommend the VPN be based in a country with no data retention laws of its own. It also makes you secure from governmental forces.

Device Type:

Is your device supported by the VPN service you have chosen? The answer may be yes. But I recommend you to check it again.

Browser Type:

Some VPNs also have browser extensions belonging to desktop and mobile versions. If you want to use a browser extension, make sure the VPN supports the browser you want to use.

Budget:

Considering all features you like, making a relation to the budget is also important. You can pick a limited plan for a short time with a low budget, or you can take a long time plan that will reduce your monthly cost. 

Available servers:

How many servers does the VPN Company use? A large company like NordVPN uses 5,246 servers. On the other side, some small companies have only a few servers. You should look for a VPN with a large number of servers so you can always stay connected.

Speed:

Speed can vary by several factors like distance to the server, operating system, device type, etc. so analyze speed before buying.

Customer Support:

VPN companies are not known for their customer support. But sometimes it is essential. They have a live chat feature in addition to their online help center. 

Is VPNs Legal?

VPNs are legal in most countries, but some countries have complete or partial restrictions included below:

• China
• United Arab Emirates
• Russia
• Oman
• Iran
• Belarus
• Turkey
• Iraq

Conclusion 

Just using a random VPN is not a solution. You have to ensure a lot of things. First, you should ask yourself why you are looking for a VPN. Then you can easily decide after reading this guide. 

VPN is not just for personal security nowadays. It can help you to unblock some restrictions as well. You can get lots of benefits by using the best one. So make a productive decision fast. 

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Best Antivirus Software for PC and Mobile