The best VPN service in 2022

Whatever you need the best VPN for, we've got the answer

The best VPN – short for 'virtual private network' – is software traditionally used to help keep you anonymous online and virtually change your location. As they've become more well-known, though, countless users are discovering there's more to VPN than just staying private online.

From securing your sensitive information and avoiding trackers to circumventing content blocks on Netflix, Amazon Prime, and sports streaming sites, you don't have to be a hardcore techy to appreciate their potential. Plus, the top providers have apps for just about any device, so even if you're mobile-first, you can stay secure and stream more with ease.

The only problem is choosing the best VPN for the job – we're here to help you find a balance between speed, streaming, security and, of course, value for money.

Just want the best VPN service? Look no further

3. Windscribe – Browse the web privately as it was meant to be

Windscribe encrypts your browsing activity, blocks ads, and unblocks entertainment content.Governments block content based on your location. Corporations track and sell your personal data. Add Windscribe to your browser and take back control of your privacy.Windscribe masks your IP address. This gives you unrestricted and private access to entertainment, news sites, and blocked content in over 60 different countries.

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1. ExpressVPN – hands-down the best VPN available

ExpressVPN is simply the best VPN we've tested. Not only does it provide top security features, but it's unrivalled when it comes to unblocking streaming content. Its 30-day money-back guarantee lets you trial the service risk-free, and you can now claim three months free – plus 1 year free of Backblaze.

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2. NordVPN – big name offers serious security

Arguably the biggest name in the VPN industry, it's quite likely you'll have heard of NordVPN. Thankfully it's not all hot air, as Nord delivers a premium service that's hugely secure and great for streaming – and at just $3.30 a month plus three months free, it's decent value, too.

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3. Surfshark – best-value VPN on the market

If you're after a premium service for as little money as possible, Surfshark is perfect. With top streaming performance and intuitive apps on just about every device, it's the best VPN on a budget at just $2.49 a month – and its unlimited connections policy will cover all your devices.

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What is a VPN?

In its simplest form, the best VPN works by tunneling your connection through its own encrypted servers, which hides your activity from your ISP and anyone else who might be watching – including the government, advertisers and nefarious hackers. This also allows you to access restricted sites, stream a wider range of shows, and avoid network throttling.

For example, if Facebook or YouTube is banned at your school, you'll be able to access them through your VPN. If you're traveling to the UAE or China, you can use a VPN to access restricted sites and apps you use daily, like Gmail and WhatsApp. And, if you're on holiday anywhere outside your home country, you can use the best VPN to access the Netflix shows you love, as they may be unavailable overseas.

What's the best VPN?

The competition to be crowned best VPN gets tougher every day, but there's still a clear winner that's head and shoulders above the rest – Windscribe.

One of Windscribe main assets is that it's incredibly easy to use on any platform – be it your phone, PC, or even PlayStation. It also performed well in our streaming tests, easily getting around the geo-restrictions of Netflix, Hulu and Amazon Prime Video – and, because it provides such swift connections, you'll be able to watch in HD or 4K just like usual.

To top it off, you'll also be covered by a 30-day money-back guarantee which means you can effectively test-drive the service and its 3,000+ servers for a whole month before you buy – you can find out all the details in our full independent