The best US VPN in 2024
If you're on the hunt for a VPN, it makes sense to pick the one that works best for the region you're in. The best VPNs for the US boost your online privacy and keep your data out of the hands of potential eavesdroppers--allowing you to access content and services that might be restricted by your workplace, ISP, or government. VPN locations also let you compare prices across different regions, so you can snag the best deals on flights and hotels.
However, with so many VPNs on the market, how do you pick a provider that's worth your hard-earned cash? I've been testing VPNs for 4 years, now, and have put hundreds of services under the microscope, including big names and independent providers--so, you're getting real recommendations from a real person (who can spot a subpar service a mile away).
To help you avoid duds that don't have your privacy in mind, I've compared the security tools, unblocking power, speed, US server locations, and value for money of my top picks. Let's get stuck into my list of the best US VPNs.
The three best US VPNs at a glance
Recent updates
Our most recent VPN test results are in - and NordVPN is now the king of the castle, claiming the #1 spot from ExpressVPN.
I've updated this page to reflect the results.
The best US VPN services in 2024
Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you're buying the best. Find out more about how we test.
Now, it's time to take a deep dive into my favorite US VPNs and full analyse their features, performance, ease of use, and servers to help you decide which one is right for you. I'll also let you know what I liked about each provider (as well as what I didn't like), and how they compare to their closest competitors.
The best US VPN
1. Private Internet Access (PIA)
The best US VPN overall--a great pick for VPN newcomers and experts alike
Number of US server cities: 50+ | Number of servers: 20,000+ | Server locations: 90 countries | Maximum devices supported: Unlimited | Trial length: 30 days Largest server network
Feature-packed across apps Excellent kill switch Issues unblocking Disney+
Speed fluctuations Subscribe if:
? You intend to torrent: PIA has its own roster of dedicated P2P servers--and the speeds you'll need for snappy downloads.
?
You want to connect more than 10 devices: with PIA, you'll get unlimited simultaneous connections for a fraction of the price of NordVPN and ExpressVPN. Don't subscribe if:
? You want to access Disney+: unfortunately, PIA's IP addresses are sometimes blocked by Disney+ and other big-name streaming platforms. ExpressVPN has a more reliable success rate.
? Occasional speed fluctuations are a deal breaker: performance spikes can cause issues when gaming--and nobody wants to be pulled out of the zone by their VPN.
Bottom line: ?????
?Private Internet Access is a feature-rich provider with bargain prices, and a great reputation across the US. Take advantage of a 30-day money-back guarantee to try PIA for yourself. If you're looking for US server coverage, it's hard to match PIA (Private Internet Access), which is why it's our number-one US VPN.
You'll be able to take your pick of servers in cities like Los Angeles, New York, and Miami, and grab a US IP address with ease. Unlimited device connections and a well-known commitment to user privacy make PIA a stand-out service, and its affordable pricing is the cherry on top. The PIA interface is intuitive, even for new users, and makes it incredibly easy to connect to any given location.
Speed is a critical component of any VPN review, and during my testing, I saw that PIA was pretty quick (although the likes of Surfshark and NordVPN have it beat). ?Try PIA with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Customizable encryption options give users the chance to tailor their security preferences--which is good news if you like to go deep-diving into settings.
I particularly appreciate the support for AES-256 encryption, which is the gold standard for VPN security. If you're looking for a VPN to stream content with, PIA also has you covered there, unblocking popular platforms like Netflix and Hulu in my testing, giving me full access to their content libraries with no trouble at all. Unfortunately, this cannot be said for all streaming services, with Disney+ and BBC iPlayer causing the most issues.
If you're after a VPN that unblocks it all streaming-wise, ExpressVPN will probably suit your needs better. With this being said, as unblocking services is a massive challenge across the VPN world, PIA's compatibility with several major platforms is still impressive. There's more good news if you're looking for a torrenting VPN.
PIA offers dedicated P2P servers, optimized for fast and secure downloads, and the kill switch will kick in to conceal your IP address and maintain your anonymity if the VPN connection happens to drop.
Swipe to scroll horizontally| Design | Plenty to customize with intuitive navigation | ??? |
| Ease of use | VPN newbies might feel daunted by the level of customization | ??? |
| Performance | No slouch, although other market leaders are quicker | ??? |
| Unblocking | Unblocks most major streaming platforms thanks to an expansive server network | ???? |
| Security and privacy | An audited no-logs service with tough encryption | ????? |
| Customer support | Expert advice is readily available | ???? |
| Price | Fair prices for lots of functionality | ????? |
The best US VPN with antivirus
2. NordVPN
An all-in-one security suite that's wickedly fast
Number of US server cities: 16 | Number of servers: 6000+ | Server locations: 140 in 110+ countries | Maximum devices supported: 6 | Trial length: 30 days Blazing-fast NordLynx speeds Blocks ads, trackers, and malware
24/7 live chat support Unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu UI can feel cramped on smaller screens
Only 6 simultaneous connections Subscribe if:
? You need a VPN with built-in extras: ad-blocking, antivirus, dark web monitoring, and even secure cloud storage--NordVPN goes the extra mile to keep your credentials secure.
?
You want to host game servers: NordVPN's Meshnet feature is free to all users, giving up to 60 devices of your choice access to your network, so you can host a local server and play with friends outside the US. Don't subscribe if:
? You want a simple interface: NordVPN's apps aren't totally inaccessible, but ExpressVPN or Surfshark are both more suitable for beginners.
?
You intend to torrent: although NordVPN supports torrenting, not all of its servers are optimized for P2P file sharing. PIA, on the other hand, has its own dedicated torrenting servers. Bottom line: ????
1/2
?NordVPN fleet of US servers makes unblocking content a breeze. Plus, thanks to its snappy speeds, you can enjoy HD streaming without buffering. Take NordVPN with a test drive and check out its 30-day money-back guarantee.
Want to know more?
Read my NordVPN review to learn why its double-encryption makes it extra secure when it comes to protecting your privacy. NordVPN is big in the US--in fact, there are more than 1,970 Stateside servers in 16 locations (including Atlanta, San Franciso, and New York). You'll have no trouble finding and connecting to a server in a city near you.
If you fancy traveling further afield, don't worry--NordVPN has coverage in over 110 countries, total. When it comes to speed, NordVPN blows most of the competition out of the water. The VPN clocked in at 950 Mbps during my most recent tests--which actually maxed out my connection and put the provider at the top of my fastest VPN recommendations.
Considering you only need 25 Mbps to enjoy HD or 4K content, NordVPN will have no trouble keeping up with your Netflix marathon. So, it should come as no surprise that NordVPN comes in at #1 in our streaming VPN guide. ?Try NordVPN with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Not only this, you can also use NordVPN with your Android Smart TV, preventing speed throttling while enhancing your online security. I was able to stream HD YouTube content while using NordVPN without a hint of buffering or stuttering. I didn't experience any DNS leaks while using NordVPN--and that's good news.
It means the VPN did its job flawlessly by hiding my IP address, my location, and my internet activity from my internet service provider (ISP). With the NordLynx protocol, it's even faster, so you won't be waiting around for your NFL or NBA stream to load. However, if you're an avid torrentor, NordVPN may not be the best choice for you, due to its lack of features like port forwarding.
While it does allow P2P and torrenting to some extent, if you are looking for a US VPN for torrenting specifically, you're better off with more reliable torrenting alternatives, like PIA or Proton VPN. All in all, Nord is packed with advanced security options without a hefty price tage, meaning if you're security-conscious but have a strict budget, it's a great choice for you.
Swipe to scroll horizontally| Design | A feature-packed user interface that can get cluttered | ???? |
| Ease of use | Easy to start, but more advanced options are harder to spot | ??? |
| Performance | Super-fast speeds make streaming a breeze | ????? |
| Unblocking | Unblocks Netflix, Disney+, and many others | ????? |
| Security and privacy | Tough encryption and security tools keep your data out of danger | ????? |
| Customer support | Expert advice is available 24/7 | ????? |
| Price | Great deal when you count in everything that it features | ???? |
The easiest to use US VPN
3.
The easiest to use US VPN--a premium service packed with features
Number of US server cities: 24 | Number of servers: 3,000+ | Server locations: 160 in 105 countries | Maximum devices supported: 8 | Trial length: 30 days Simple and easy-to-use interface
Incredibly fast WireGuard speeds
24/7 live chat support Unblocks tons of streaming platforms Not as quick as NordVPN
Expensive subscription prices Number of device connections limited to 8 maximum Subscribe if:
? You need a fast, reliable VPN: ExpressVPN is seriously quick, meaning you can tune into HD content without worrying about endless buffering.
? You want to access the best price deals: an expansive network of servers, in 160 locations (including the US), lets you check out bargains from around the world.
Don't subscribe if:
? You need a budget-friendly VPN: ExpressVPN is a premium VPN with a premium price tag. If you want a stellar free service, I'd recommend Proton VPN.
?
You need unlimited device connections: you're limited to 8 simultaneous connections with ExpressVPN, while PIA and Surfshark support unlimited connectivity. Bottom line: ????
1/2
?ExpressVPN is one of the pricier options in my rankings, but it'll never leave you stranded when it comes to unblocking US streaming services and other localized content. Take ExpressVPN for a test drive with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Want to know more?
ExpressVPN is just that good, thanks to its roster of features and access to US content. Learn more about the provider in my ExpressVPN review. ExpressVPN is a great choice for a US VPN as it provides servers in key US locations, like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago thanks to its massive network of 3,200+ servers dotted across the globe.
That's great news if you need a nearby server to maximize your performance--or if you're looking to keep up to date with your favorite US content when traveling abroad. If streaming is your thing, ExpressVPN has your back. It unblocks popular streaming services like Netflix US, Amazon Prime, Disney Plus, and more.
During my testing, I had no trouble watching same-day blockbuster movie premiers with HBO Max, as well as original series and live sports events. Basically, you'll never miss an NFL or NBA match ever again--but keep in mind that the one thing ExpressVPN can't do is guarantee a win for your team. ? Try ExpressVPN with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Not only that, but ExpressVPN helps reduce the VPN's impact on your connection speed through the use of Lightway, ExpressVPN's proprietary protocol based on WireGuard. Lightway's code is optimized for efficiency, which reducing the burden on your device's resources and allowing you to enjoy the full benefits of a VPN--privacy, security, and access to geo-restricted content--without slowing my connection down to a crawl. Next, let's address the elephant in the room--ExpressVPN's pricing.
It's more expensive than the other VPNs on my shortlist, which might be enough to put you off taking it for a whirl. That's totally understandable, seeing as we're all feeling the pinch of a cost-of-living crisis, and there are more budget-friendly options available (like Surfshark). On the other hand, ExpressVPN provides a premium service in exchange for a premium price tag.
You're getting cutting-edge security tools and consistent performance for the cost of a cup of coffee each month. You'll also have access to ExpressVPN's Threat Manager system, which you can use to block ads, filter adult sites, and generally prevent leaks from giving away your real IP. ExpressVPN ticks all the boxes, whether you're living in the States or just passing through, and you can trial the service before committing to a long-term subscription by making good use of its 30-day money-back guarantee.
Swipe to scroll horizontally| Design | Apps look awesome and feel responsive | ????? |
| Ease of use | Convenient, with handy Auto-connect features | ????? |
| Performance | A top contender in our speed tests | ???? |
| Unblocking | Unblocks all Netflix libraries, Hulu, Disney+, and more | ????? |
| Security and privacy | Uses military-grade protection to secure your browsing | ???? |
| Customer support | Available 24/7 via live chat | ????? |
| Price | Expensive when compared to other VPNs | ??? |
Other VPNs we tested
4. Surfshark
A budget-friendly option that's seriously speedy
Number of US server cities: 23 | Number of servers: 3,200+ | Server locations: 160+ in 100+ countries | Maximum devices supported: Unlimited | Trial length: 30 days
Eye-catching pricing Use on unlimited device Has an adblocker feature
Privacy policy could be more detailed Not as many advanced features as Nord Subscribe if:
?
You don't want to break the bank: Surfshark packs a ton of features and value for money into inexpensive plans.
? You need unlimited device connections: protect all of your devices, or secure the entire household, with a single account. Don't subscribe if:
?
You're looking for a VPN you can tinker with: there's not a great deal of tweaking to be done with Surfshark's advanced configurations--unlike NordVPN or PIA.
? You're looking for a free VPN: Surfshark is one of the cheapest providers available, but Proton VPN gives you access to a decent service without parting with a penny. Bottom line: ????
? Surfshark has more than 600 servers in the US, low-cost plans, and unlimited simultaneous connections--and you can take the service for a test spin with its 30-day money-back guarantee.
Want to know more?
Visit our full Surfshark review to see why our favorite cheap provider is also a great pick for US users. Getting a US IP address is a piece of cake with Surfshark. The provider has servers in 25 cities, meaning virtually every corner of the States is covered--and that's great news if you need a local connection to optimize speeds.
What truly sets Surfshark apart is its policy on simultaneous device connections. Other VPNs can limit the number of devices connected at any one time, but Surfshark supports unlimited connections. This meant I could secure all of my internet-enabled gadgets under a single Surfshark account without worrying about hitting a stingy device limit.
I always consider a VPN's compatibility with different devices when I put them to the test--and Surfshark passed with flying colors. It supports a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. Comprehensive device compatibility is a significant advantage for any multi-device household, as I use multiple devices for work and leisure.
?Try SurfsharkVPN with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Performance is a critical factor when evaluating a VPN, and Surfshark delivered on this front, too. During my testing, I consistently saw impressive upload and download speeds.
Surfshark is incredibly quick and should be able to keep up with intensive online activities like gaming, torrenting, and streaming. Surfshark's kill switch does slightly let it down, however. During my testing, I wasn't notified when the VPN connection dropped--a serious issue for a VPN as you could assume you're under its protection when actually you're exposed.
Hopefully, Surfshark will address the issue before long. Surfshark makes up for these issues with a suite of advanced features, some of which are part of the Surfshark One add-on bundle. This bundle includes Surfshark Search, an ad and malware blocker, personal data breach alerts, and an antivirus scanner.
There are also plenty of tutorials on the website, in both video and text formats, making it easy for users to troubleshoot solutions to any obstacles.
Swipe to scroll horizontally| Design | Intuitive and suitable for beginners | ????? |
| Ease of use | Apps are fresh and clutter-free | ????? |
| Performance | A blazing-fast service, ireat for streaming and gaming | ???? |
| Unblocking | Unblocks Netflix US, Hulu, Disney+, and more | ???? |
| Security and privacy | Plenty of security features as well as ad blocking | ????? |
| Customer support | 24/7 support is available to handle any questions | ????? |
| Price | An incredibly inexpensive premium provider | ????? |
5. IPVanish
A speedy VPN with lots of customization
Number of US server cities: 20 | Number of servers: 2,200+ | Server locations: 75+ in 52 countries | Maximum devices supported: Unlimited | Trial period: 30 days Blistering speeds Independently audited
Unlimited simultaneous connections Dedicated Linux GUI Couldn't unblock Disney+ in our latest round of tests
Couldn't unblock Netflix AU or CA in our latest round of tests Subscribe if:
? You want a Linux app: IPVanish is one of the few VPNs that offer a dedicated app for Linux users.
? You have a lot of devices to protect: much like Surfshark, IPVanish offers unlimited simultaneous connections. Don't subscribe if:
? You don't intend to cancel your renewal: initial pricing is pretty cheap, but if you allow the service to renew, you might just break the bank.
? You want to stream Disney+: IPVanish has pretty reliable unblocking capabilities, but it struggled to unblock Disney+ in our latest round of testing.
Bottom line: ????
? IPVanish is a budget-friendly provider with plenty of great features and unlimited simultaneous connections. It's come a long way since our last deep-dive. Want to know more?
Check out our in-depth IPVanish VPN review to find out more about this popular VPN provider.
IPVanish has fallen slightly down the ranks in our latest round of testing, going from fifth place to seventh in our industry rankings. In our latest round of testing, IPVanish unblocked US Amazon Prime and Disney+, so if these are your streaming providers of choice, IPVanish might be right for you. This being said, there are more reliable streaming VPNs on this list, like NordVPN or ExpressVPN.
? Try IPVanish with a 30-day money-back guarantee. The desktop apps stand out with intuitive and easy-to-use map interfaces. It's less imposing than NordVPN's but comes with some of the same UI problems.
Personally, I love the dark aesthetic of the software--it almost feels like you're in a 90s hacker movie. The company doesn't just rent its servers, it owns them--giving it full control over bandwidth. On top of that, there are no device limits, so you can protect as many devices as you want.
Combine all that with a feature-rich offering and independent auditing, and it's a reliable alternative. There are plenty of security features on offer, letting you tweak the app to suit your needs, and the built-in kill switch holds up to our most extreme testing, so you can be confident in the protection it gives you. I'm not a big fan of the absolute kill-switch approach though.
If you have it activated and intentionally disconnect from the VPN, it'll stop your internet. This can be a pain in the neck if you just want to pause it for a moment. Thankfully, it's easy enough to deactivate on the fly though, so this is only a minor gripe.
IPVanish is a great alternative for anyone with lots of hardware to protect. The 30-day money-back guarantee gives you a risk-free way to find out more, but beware, it's for annual plans only--monthly billed users aren't covered.
Swipe to scroll horizontally| Design | Dark and edgy, but generally complicated | ??? |
| Ease of use | Some usability issues and a complex interface | ??? |
| Performance | Incredibly fast WireGuard speeds | ????? |
| Unblocking | Decent unblocking with a couple of hiccups | ???? |
| Security and privacy | Thoroughly audited and reliable encryption | ????? |
| Customer support | Support articles aren't as helpful as they should be and generally say the same thing | ??? |
| Price | Generally cheap, but renewal prices are quite a sting to users that get caught out | ??? |
6. PrivadoVPN
The best free US VPN
Number of US server cities: 14 | Number of servers: 200+ | Server locations: 66 in 49 countries | Maximum devices supported: 10 | Trial period: 30 days Unblocks plenty of streaming services
Excellent features, even on the free version Fast WireGuard-powered apps No security audits
Single-month plan is pricey Fewer servers than Express, Nord and Surfshark Subscribe if:
? You need a reliable free VPN: PrivadoVPN doesn't hide its most important features behind a paywall like ProtonVPN, so you get a reliable service without spending a penny.
? You want to stream Netflix: a dedicated geo-unblocking team means that even free users benefit from reliable US and UK Netflix unblocking.
Don't subscribe if:
? You want lots of server options: while the free service has 14 locations, it's still incredibly limited, and the same can be said for the premium service compared to the likes of PIA and Surfshark.
? You need more than 10 GB of data per month: PrivadoVPN's free service has a data limit on its uncapped server speeds, but after that's used up, you go into "over quota mode" where you're limited to 1 Mbps. If you need unlimited data on a free VPN, I recommend Proton VPN. Bottom line: ????
? PrivadoVPN offers a decent mid-tier premium service, but it's hands-down the best free VPN on the market right now.
Want to know more?
Check out our in-depth PrivadoVPN review and see why this free service is so good at unblocking Netflix. PrivadoVPN is a mid-tier premium VPN with a mind-blowing free version. Premium users get 10 simultaneous connections, along with a zero-logs policy, an ad blocker, parental controls, and even threat protection to help keep your devices safe from malware. When it comes to the free version, some of these features are (unsurprisingly) locked behind the enticing premium paywall.
However, there's still a lot on offer, and Privado doesn't restrict speeds for free users on up to 10GB of data--which is more than enough for most. ? Try PrivadoVPN absolutely free. In our latest round of testing, Privado actually maxed out our speed testing at more than 950 Mbps download speed, which is plenty for streaming in 4K, gaming online, and seamless torrenting.
It even handles its own bandwidth and transit routes, so you get fantastic speeds and almost no server congestion--even on free servers. Its easy-to-use apps offer one-click connections and a kill switch to ensure you're always protected, even if your VPN connection drops. Plus, with WireGuard VPN encryption, you get the latest and greatest VPN protection at no cost.
For the streaming fans, PrivadoVPN has a dedicated geoblocking team that constantly looks to bypass censorship and regional content restrictions. What's more, it doesn't make free users suffer with sub-par servers--making it one of the only free services that can reliably unblock US Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime. PrivadoVPN has yet to verify its privacy credentials with an independent audit.
In our latest meeting with Privado, I discussed audits and open-sourcing with PrivadoVPN's engineering team, who were keen to do more to improve the service, but noted that an audit would require a standstill for development, and which could prevent them from delivering on the needs of their users. Privado plans to pursue an audit as soon as possible, but it needs to make sure it's offering the best service it can at all times. It's a catch-22 situation, but one I'm confident will be addressed soon.
I like that PrivadoVPN doesn't give you a reduced priority if you're a free user. If you find yourself stuck, Privado has 24/7 email and live chat support for customers--regardless of what plan they're on.
Swipe to scroll horizontally| Design | A simple yet colorful design | ???? |
| Ease of use | Easy to use and clearly laid out | ???? |
| Performance | The low end of average for a leading service, but generally fast enough for anything you could throw at it | ??? |
| Unblocking | Some hiccups despite a dedicated unblocking team | ??? |
| Security and privacy | Good scores on paper, but currently lacking an independent audit | ???? |
| Customer support | Decent email support, but not a lot of of on-site help | ??? |
| Price | Nothing beats free | ????? |
7. Proton VPN
A free service that holds its own against paid peers
Number of US server cities: 14 | Number of servers: 2,900+ | Server locations: 91 countries | Maximum devices supported: 10 | Trial length: 30 days pro rata Free plan with unlimited data
Paid plan unblocks Netflix, iPlayer, Prime Video, Disney Plus Powerful open-source and audited apps Quite expensive
Restrictions on servers and features Subscribe if:
? You want to try before you buy: free plans generally showcase the VPN's most important features--although you'll need to upgrade to a paid plan to stream content.
?
You prioritize security and privacy: ProtonVPN comes from the same team behind Proton Mail, so you can rest assured they're not interested in snooping. Don't subscribe if:
?You want a broad server network: ProtonVPN has one of the more limited server fleets in our US ranking--and the number shrinks further if you're a free user.
?You have a need for speed: Proton VPN isn't a speed demon, unfortunately, with disappointing connection speeds. NordVPN and Surfshark are better picks for the speed-conscious.
Bottom line: ????
?ProtonVPN is a fantastic free option with open-source apps, handy features, and coverage in the US for all users. Want to know more?
Proton VPN is a privacy-conscious choice that goes out of its way to prioritize your security--and you can read more in our in-depth Proton VPN review. Proton VPN impresses right off the bat with more than 2,000 servers in 14 US cities, including Chicago, Dallas, and Washington.
This gives you plenty of choice when it comes to unblocking US streaming content or reconnecting to an American server if you're traveling outside the States. It's also worth noting that Proton VPN has carved out a solid reputation for being one of the most privacy-oriented services on the market. A subscription bags you access to a whole heap of security tools, including Secure Core servers that route your traffic through two servers instead of one, for an all-important extra layer of security.
?Try ProtonVPN with a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you're on the hunt for a reliable free VPN, you'll probably have noticed that most providers only offer a limited free plan - but not Proton VPN. There are a few drawbacks, sure, like a smaller server pool and reduced speeds, but it's a great option to have if you'd rather not commit to a subscription or only need a VPN occasionally.
With Proton VPN's free plan, I was able to enjoy decent download and upload speeds, making it suitable for general web browsing and light streaming. Unfortunately, however, the plan doesn't support streaming. You'll need to upgrade to a paid subscription to get access to ten Netflix regions, HBO Max, Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and more.
Because Proton has a small server network, during times of high demand, such as when many users are connecting to the VPN simultaneously, I experienced connectivity issues. By comparison, PIA can handle increased traffic much more efficiently thanks to its larger fleet of servers. Proton VPN offers user-friendly apps for various platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and even smart TVs.
Its intuitive interface makes it easy for both beginners and experienced VPN users to access US-specific content or hop across to overseas servers.
Swipe to scroll horizontally| Design | A clean UI that's easy to navigate | ????? |
| Ease of Use | Simple for both beginners and experts | ????? |
| Performance | The best free VPN in the business | ????? |
| Unblocking | Unblocks all Netflix regions, Amazon Prime, and more, on paid plan | ??? |
| Security and privacy | Developed by CERN scientists, one of the most secure VPNs | ????? |
| Customer support | Available through form submission, and knowledge base | ??? |
| Price | Only VPN to offer a completely free plan | ????? |
How to choose a US VPN?
I've highlighted today's top VPN picks in the rankings above - however, the VPN that's best for you will ultimately depend on your use case. Basically, what are you going to use the VPN for? Is unblocking US streaming content your top priority?
Do you need a privacy-focused provider? Or would you prefer a solid all-rounder? With that in mind, here are a few other key criteria to keep in mind:
- US servers: a reliable US VPN needs servers in the US.
Make sure that they're in the cities or states you need them to be.
- Speed: a quick VPN can keep up with HD streaming and online gaming, making the dreaded buffering circle and high ping a thing of the past.
- User-friendly apps: use the VPN's trial period to explore its apps on different devices to get a feel for how they work.
- Pricing: there's no need to spend a fortune to get a US VPN - there are services available at all price points.
- Security features: your VPN should have tough encryption and today's top protocols: OpenVPN and WireGuard. A kill switch and leak protection are important extras, too.
- Trials and money-back guarantees: most VPNs give you a grace period where you can try the service for free, or claim your money back within a certain timeframe.
How we test VPNs for the US
We have a dedicated team of in-house VPN experts who take VPN testing seriously. Results vary over time, whether they're speed, unblocking, or other benchmarks, so we've committed to a consistent re-testing schedule to ensure we're providing the most up-to-date information possible.
We don't pull punches when it comes to our testing process, either, and have a thorough gauntlet of tests designed to identify which VPNs aren't worth your time, which ones are, and which VPNs are the cream of the crop. Feature analysis: our first step is to investigate the VPN and collect as much data as we can. We check out how many servers the provider has (and where they are), which protocols are available, the encryption methods, and more.
This information forms the basis of our comparisons and informs the tests we go on to do. Privacy and security: next, we'll put the VPN's privacy policy and encryption methods under the microscope. We also check out any independent audits the service has gone through - and if we can't find any, well, that's an immediate red flag.
This is where we perform our own raft of proprietary practical tests to see how well the VPN's DNS leak protection, kill switch, and other security tools work. Performance testing: we use a 1 Gbps internet connection, and a variety of devices, to test the speed of VPNs. We'll perform tests at regular intervals throughout the day and year, too, and check out connection times, streaming performance, and regular browsing to get a clear picture of how the VPN functions during day-to-day activity.
Unblocking abilities: our next step is to check out the VPN's unblocking power. We'll pit it against today's most popular global platforms, like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer and more. Support and reliability: finally, we'll investigate the VPN's customer service.
If live chat and/or email support are available, we reach out to measure the speed of the response and how well it addressed our inquiry. We'll also evaluate the support materials on the provider's site, too, to see how well they facilitate user troubleshooting.
Tested by
Meet the experts behind our US VPN guide:
Andreas Theodorou
Editor-in-Chief (Tech Software)
A privacy purist at heart, Andreas is a VPN expert who believes the best VPN doesn't have to be the most expensive--it's about what's right for you.
Mike Williams
Lead Security ReviewerMike regularly reviews our top picks, and loves looking behind the curtains to see how a VPN works in the background. If there's a skeleton in the closet, he'll find it.
FAQs
Can I use a free US VPN?
You can, but don't expect it to be as reliable or capable as a paid-for service.
Even the best free VPN is still a limited version of a premium app. In fact, a good VPN doesn't need to be expensive, either. Surfshark tops our list as the best cheap VPN and ranks third overall in our industry rankings. Still, if you're looking for protection with no budget, PrivadoVPN is an excellent starting point.
How to unblock the US with a VPN
Wondering how to use a VPN?
It's a piece of cake - even if you're totally new to the tech. To access US content with your VPN, all you need to is: 1.
Select a US Server:
Open your VPN app and choose a server located in the United States.
2. Connect:
Click the 'Connect' button in the VPN app to establish a secure connection.
3. Start surfing:
Once connected, you can access US websites and streaming platforms as if you were physically located in the United States, bypassing geo-restrictions.
Is a US VPN illegal?
While you're absolutely safe and within your right to use a VPN in the USA, there are countries that have laws against them, including the likes of China and North Korea. However, within the US, VPN services are completely legal to use.
Is a US VPN safe to use?
Absolutely.
If you use one of the VPNs we've recommended in this article, you'll have no trouble. Bear in mind, however, that there are thousands of VPN services on the market--and they're not all made equal. Some providers are seriously limited (by bandwidth caps and data allowances), and more unscrupulous VPNs even log your IP and browsing habits to sell to equally nefarious third parties.
Disclaimer
We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses.
For example: 1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service). 2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.
We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services.
Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.