- ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surf Shark are the top contenders for speed and streaming.
- ExpressVPN is like the iPhone of VPNs – smooth and consistent, but pricey.
- Surf Shark is a solid, affordable option with a dedicated IP option for smooth browsing.
- Private Internet Access is the best for power users with advanced features and good pricing.
- Mulvad is all about privacy, using innovative methods for account creation and not supporting streaming.
- Competition in the VPN space has led to constant innovation, making it harder to choose.
- Always be cautious about personal information online, and consider services to help remove it from Google.
π Speed is Key π
When it comes to VPNs, speed is of utmost importance. The best VPN should not slow down your connection significantly. I have tested six VPNs and found that ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surf Shark stood out with lightning-fast speeds for both downloads and uploads. They were so fast that I didn’t even feel like I was connected to a VPN.
π Streaming Success π
One of the most common uses for a VPN is streaming region-locked shows, especially while traveling. While ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surf Shark provide excellent streaming support, I have encountered varying success with other VPNs. For instance, Private Internet Access (PIA) faced some streaming issues on certain servers. Meanwhile, Surf Shark passed every streaming test without a single issue.
π± User-Friendly Apps π±
The ease of selecting server locations using VPN apps can significantly impact the user experience. For instance, ExpressVPN’s app is refreshingly simple, making it easy to navigate and connect to desired server locations. NordVPN and PIA also offer user-friendly apps, each with their own unique features, while Surf Shark’s app was found to be relatively cluttered in comparison.
π Privacy Matters π
Privacy is a crucial aspect of any VPN. It’s essential to choose a VPN with a strong privacy policy and top-notch security features. While all the VPNs on my list have a no-logs policy and use RAM-only servers, Mulvad stands out for its innovative approach to user account creation, providing ultimate privacy and anonymity.
π° Cost and Value π°
In considering the cost of VPN services, it’s important to weigh their performance against the price. ExpressVPN and NordVPN are among the more expensive options, while Mulvad offers a unique monthly payment model. Surf Shark, on the other hand, offers competitive pricing with impressive performance.
π¦ Extra Features π¦
Each VPN comes with its set of additional features. For example, PIA caters to power users with features like split tunneling and DNS server selection. Similarly, NordVPN offers features like Meshnet and a dark web service, while Surf Shark recently added dedicated IP options.
π¬ Final Thoughts π¬
The competition in the VPN space has led to continuous innovation, with the performance gap between VPNs narrowing significantly. While ExpressVPN is ideal for a smooth, hassle-free experience, the cost may be a concern. Surf Shark emerges as a budget-friendly option with exceptional performance. Additionally, PIA is recommended for power users, offering a wide range of advanced features.
π‘οΈ Protecting Personal Information Online π‘οΈ
Using a VPN is only the first step towards online protection. Even with a VPN, personal information can be easily accessible online. Services like DeleteMe and Incog can help remove personal information from search engines like Google, providing an additional layer of online security.
| VPN | Pricing (Annual) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| ExpressVPN | $99.95 | Consistent, smooth browsing |
| NordVPN | $89.00 | Meshnet, dark web |
| Surf Shark | $59.76 | Budget-friendly, dedicated IP |
| PIA | $39.95 | Power user features |
| Mulvad | Converted USD price based on β¬5 per month | Unique privacy features |
My Recommended VPNs:
- ExpressVPN – For a smooth, uninterrupted browsing experience.
- Surf Shark – Budget-friendly with consistent performance.
- PIA – Ideal for power users with a range of advanced features.
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