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VPN and network security

27 tools evaluated · 10 top picks · Updated June 2026

Key Takeaways
  • Proton VPN is our #1 pick for VPN in 2026.
  • We analyzed 27 VPN tools to create this ranking.
  • 6 tools offer free plans, perfect for getting started.

Consumer VPN has consolidated around a handful of trusted brands (NordVPN, ExpressVPN, ProtonVPN, Mullvad). The category has a credibility problem — many smaller VPNs make security claims that don't hold up. Pick from independently-audited vendors with no-logs verification.

7 top VPN tools compared

Starting price, average user rating, and our pick for each category.

ToolOur takeStarting priceRating
Proton VPN logo
Proton VPN
Best overallFree + paid4.5
Proton logo
Proton
Highest ratedFree + paid4.7
NordVPN logo
NordVPN
Solid pickContact sales4.5
ExpressVPN logo
ExpressVPN
Solid pickContact sales4.6
Brave logo
Brave
Solid pickFree4.6
OpenVPN logo
OpenVPN
Solid pickFree + paid4.6
Dashlane logo
Dashlane
Solid pickFree + paid4.5

How the Top VPN Tools Compare

The VPN category is highly competitive in 2026, with Proton VPN and Proton both ranking among the top choices on Toolradar's assessment, followed closely by NordVPN. The tight competition reflects how mature this market has become.

Pricing varies significantly among the top picks: Proton VPN (freemium (free tier available)), Proton (freemium (free tier available)) offer free access, while NordVPN and ExpressVPN require a paid subscription. Teams on a budget should start with Proton VPN, which delivers strong value despite its free tier.

Computed from live tool ratings, review counts, and editorial scores.Editorial policy
01
Proton VPN logo

Swiss privacy protection with unlimited bandwidth

Freemium4.5/541,058 ratings

Proton VPN offers Swiss-based privacy protection with a strict no-logs policy and open-source apps. The free tier provides unlimited bandwidth while paid plans unlock faster servers in 60+ countries. Security-conscious users trust Proton's transparent approach and integration with the broader Proton privacy ecosystem.

02
Proton logo

Take control of your digital life with end-to-end encrypted communication, storage, and browsing.

Freemium4.7/532,118 ratings

Proton offers a suite of privacy-by-default services designed to protect users' digital lives. Founded by scientists at CERN, Proton's mission is to provide an internet that prioritizes freedom and privacy, ensuring that user data belongs to them, not to tech companies or governments. All services are built with end-to-end encryption and zero-access encryption, meaning even Proton cannot access user data without permission. The product suite includes encrypted email (Proton Mail), secure VPN (Proton VPN), end-to-end encrypted cloud storage (Proton Drive), collaborative document and spreadsheet editing (Proton Docs and Sheets), a password manager (Proton Pass), a 2FA authenticator (Proton Authenticator), and secure video conferencing (Proton Meet). Proton also offers an AI assistant, Lumo, designed for confidential conversations. The services are open-source, independently audited, and protected by strong Swiss privacy laws, making them suitable for individuals and businesses seeking robust digital privacy and security across all devices.

03
NordVPN logo

Online VPN service for privacy

Paid4.5/52,187 ratings

NordVPN is a virtual private network service protecting online privacy. Encrypt internet traffic from prying eyes. 5,500+ servers in 60 countries. Threat protection blocks malware and trackers. Split tunneling routes selected traffic through VPN. Privacy tools that millions trust for secure browsing.

04
ExpressVPN logo

Secure your connection, access global content, and enjoy fast speeds

Paid4.6/5286 ratings

ExpressVPN secures internet connections across devices with military-grade encryption and servers in 94 countries. Beyond privacy, it helps users access geo-restricted content and avoid bandwidth throttling. The service is known for fast speeds, reliable connections, and a strict no-logs policy backed by independent audits.

05
Brave logo

Browse faster, safer, and more privately by default

Free4.6/5919 ratings

Brave is a web browser designed to prioritize user privacy, security, and speed by blocking unwanted ads and trackers by default. It offers a cleaner, faster browsing experience by eliminating intrusive content and protecting users from cross-site tracking and fingerprinting. Built on the open-source Chromium project, Brave enhances the core security of Chromium with numerous privacy-focused modifications, ensuring user data remains private and is not collected or shared. Beyond its core browsing capabilities, Brave integrates a suite of privacy-enhancing tools, including a private search engine, a built-in AI assistant, a Firewall + VPN for device-wide protection, and a self-custody crypto wallet. It aims to provide a comprehensive, user-centric web experience that empowers individuals with control over their data and online interactions, making it ideal for anyone seeking a more secure, efficient, and private alternative to traditional browsers.

Brave UI screenshot
06
OpenVPN logo

Open-source VPN protocol and software

Freemium4.6/5446 ratings

OpenVPN creates secure tunnels between networks. An open-source VPN that's been trusted for years - private networking that's proven reliable. The security is established. The flexibility is high. The deployment is understood. Organizations needing VPN infrastructure often deploy OpenVPN for reliable tunneling.

07
Dashlane logo

Secure password management, dark web monitoring, and VPN

Freemium4.5/5868 ratings

Dashlane is a password manager with security dashboard and dark web monitoring. Generate and store strong passwords securely. Autofill passwords across browsers and devices. VPN included for additional privacy. Dark web monitoring alerts on breaches. Password management with premium security features.

08
Kaspersky logo

Cybersecurity solutions for individuals and businesses, building a Cyber Immune future.

Paid4.5/5697 ratings

Kaspersky offers comprehensive cybersecurity solutions for both private users and businesses of all sizes. For individuals, it provides protection against various online threats like malware, viruses, ransomware, and spyware across Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS devices. Key features include real-time antivirus, online payment protection, performance optimization, unlimited VPN, data leak checks, and identity protection. The product aims to ensure a secure and private digital life for families, allowing undisturbed online activities like shopping and gaming. For businesses, Kaspersky provides robust cyber protection tailored for small, medium, and large enterprises. With over 25 years of experience, Kaspersky emphasizes a "Cyber Immune" approach, focusing on proactive defense against known and unknown threats using advanced AI technology. The company also highlights its Global Transparency Initiative, which includes relocating cyberthreat-related data storage to Switzerland and operating Transparency Centers worldwide for trusted partners and government stakeholders to review its code and processes, ensuring the integrity and trustworthiness of its products.

09
Surfshark logo

Secure your online presence with a comprehensive cybersecurity suite for unlimited devices.

Paid4.3/5840 ratings

Surfshark provides an all-in-one cybersecurity solution centered around a Virtual Private Network (VPN). It allows users to access the internet safely and privately, protecting their connection from data breaches, hacking attempts, and snoopers. The VPN encrypts internet traffic, hides IP addresses, and offers features like ad and tracker blocking, ensuring a clean and secure browsing experience across unlimited devices. Beyond the core VPN service, Surfshark offers additional tools to enhance digital security and privacy. This includes an Antivirus to shield devices from malware, Incogni to remove personal data from data brokers, Alert for data breach monitoring, Alternative ID for creating virtual identities, and Identity Theft Coverage for recovery support. It's designed for individuals and households looking for robust online protection and privacy management across all their devices. Surfshark aims to provide an effortless yet powerful cybersecurity experience, with an intuitive design and 24/7 customer support. Its high-tech features, like Nexus technology for dynamic MultiHop and IP Rotator, along with industry-leading protocols like WireGuard®, ensure both security and speed. The service operates under a strict no-logs policy, guaranteeing user privacy.

Surfshark UI screenshot
10
Opera logo

Browse privately with integrated VPN, ad blocker, and AI

Free4.4/5458 ratings

Opera is a full-featured web browser designed for enhanced privacy, security, and a smarter online experience. It distinguishes itself from default browsers by integrating advanced capabilities like a free VPN, an ad blocker, and AI tools directly into the browser. Opera aims to provide a comprehensive web experience that prioritizes user control and efficiency. Opera is ideal for users seeking a more personalized and secure browsing environment. It caters to individuals who value integrated tools for productivity, communication, and entertainment, all within a single application. The browser's focus on innovation, including features like Tab Islands for organization and built-in AI for assistance, makes it suitable for those looking to optimize their daily online activities.

Opera UI screenshot

Why these VPN tools didn't make our top 10.

We evaluated 27 VPN tools and these 17 ranked 11 through 27. They're solid options that fell short on one or two axes (review depth, pricing transparency, feature parity), but worth a look if the leaders don't fit your stack or budget.

Browse all VPN tools

27 tools
Proton VPN logo
Proton VPN
Swiss privacy protection with unlimited bandwidth
freemium· Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome, Android, iOS
Proton logo
Proton
Take control of your digital life with end-to-end encrypted communication, storage, and browsing.
freemium· Web, iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, Linux
NordVPN logo
NordVPN
Online VPN service for privacy
paid
ExpressVPN logo
ExpressVPN
Secure your connection, access global content, and enjoy fast speeds
paid· Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Chrome
Brave logo
Brave
Browse faster, safer, and more privately by default
free
OpenVPN logo
OpenVPN
Open-source VPN protocol and software
freemium· Web, Linux, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android
Dashlane logo
Dashlane
Secure password management, dark web monitoring, and VPN
freemium· Web, iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome
Kaspersky logo
Kaspersky
Cybersecurity solutions for individuals and businesses, building a Cyber Immune future.
paid· Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux
Surfshark logo
Surfshark
Secure your online presence with a comprehensive cybersecurity suite for unlimited devices.
paid· Web, iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, Linux
Opera logo
Opera
Browse privately with integrated VPN, ad blocker, and AI
free
TunnelBear logo
TunnelBear
Secure your connection and browse privately on any device
freemium
MEGA logo
MEGA
Secure encrypted cloud storage, communication, and privacy tools for everyone.
freemium· Web
IPVanish logo
IPVanish
Digital Security, Privacy, & Freedom with VPN, Secure Browser, and Cloud Storage.
paid· Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS
Hide.me logo
Hide.me
Secure your online privacy, bypass censorship, and enjoy fast, encrypted internet access.
freemium· Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome
Aura logo
Aura
All-in-one digital safety for individuals and families
paid· Web, Android, Windows, macOS
WireGuard logo
WireGuard
Fast, simple, and secure VPN protocol
free· Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux
Pangolin logo
Pangolin
Secure, identity-based remote access to private and public resources built on WireGuard.
freemium· macOS, iOS, Windows, Linux, Android
Tailscale logo
Tailscale
Securely connect your devices like they're on the same network, anywhere
freemium· Web, Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android
Pritunl logo
Pritunl
Open-source VPN server management for secure network access
freemium· macOS, Windows, Linux, Chrome
Bitdefender logo
Bitdefender
Antivirus and cybersecurity for consumers and business
paid· Web, iOS, Android, Windows, macOS
Internxt logo
Internxt
Private by default, secure by design, and free as in freedom cloud storage and privacy suite.
freemium· Web
Atlas VPN logo
Atlas VPN
A VPN service that was designed to provide online security and privacy.
freemium
Mullvad VPN logo
Mullvad VPN
Anonymous VPN with no personal info required
paid· Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android
Headscale logo
Headscale
Self-hosted Tailscale control server
free· Web
Netmaker logo
Netmaker
WireGuard network management platform
freemium· Web
Windscribe VPN logo
Windscribe VPN
Fast, reliable, and effective VPN service for privacy, security, and unrestricted internet access.
free· Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome
Peplink SD-WAN logo
Peplink SD-WAN
Supercharge your connectivity with unbreakable, high-speed internet for any environment.
paid· Web, iOS, Android

In-depth: why these tools made the cut

ExpressVPN logo

ExpressVPN's strength is the polished consumer experience — apps for every platform that 'just work,' good streaming-server performance, and an independently audited no-logs policy. For users who want a VPN to set up once and forget, ExpressVPN is rational.

ExpressVPN is more expensive than NordVPN and significantly more than Mullvad. For users who value polish and don't need maximum privacy hardening, it's a reasonable premium. For privacy-strict users, ProtonVPN or Mullvad offer more.

How to choose VPN software

  1. Verify independent audit and no-logs

    The single most important VPN criterion is whether the provider has been independently audited and demonstrated 'no logs.' Mullvad, ProtonVPN, NordVPN, and ExpressVPN have all undergone reputable audits. Many cheap VPNs have not — those are not worth using for serious privacy.

  2. Match jurisdiction to threat model

    VPNs based in Five Eyes countries (US, UK, Canada, Australia, NZ) are subject to local subpoenas. ProtonVPN (Switzerland), Mullvad (Sweden), NordVPN (Panama) operate from more privacy-favorable jurisdictions. Threat model matters; for casual users (Netflix unblocking), it doesn't.

  3. Plan for the use case

    Streaming/geo-unblocking: NordVPN, ExpressVPN dominate. Maximum privacy: Mullvad (anonymous accounts, even Bitcoin). Speed: WireGuard-based providers (most modern VPNs) all perform similarly. Pick based on what you actually use VPN for.

Honorable mentions

Tools that didn't crack the headline list but deserve a look depending on what you optimize for.

  • Tuta logo
    TutaNot a VPN — encrypted email

    Tuta (Tutanota) is encrypted email, not a VPN. Listed here because of brand overlap. For email privacy, Tuta is a credible Gmail/Outlook alternative; for VPN, look at the actual VPN providers.

Best VPN for

How we ranked these VPN tools

We rank by real-world signal: verified user ratings aggregated from G2, Capterra, and our own community, the volume and recency of media coverage, and hands-on editorial review for the tools we cover in depth. Pricing is re-checked and the ranking refreshed monthly. We do not sell placement in this list.

Tools reviewed
27
With free tier
67%
Last updated
June 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best VPN tool in 2026?

Based on our analysis of 27 VPN tools, Proton VPN ranks #1 on Toolradar's assessment. The runners-up are Proton, NordVPN, ExpressVPN. Our rankings are based on features, pricing, user reviews, and real-world testing across 27 products.

What are the top 3 VPN tools?

The top 3 VPN tools in 2026, ranked by Toolradar, are: 1) Proton VPN, Swiss privacy protection with unlimited bandwidth. 2) Proton, Take control of your digital life with end-to-end encrypted communication, storage, and browsing.. 3) NordVPN, Online VPN service for privacy.

Are there free VPN tools?

Yes: 6 out of our top 10 VPN tools offer free or freemium plans. The top free options are Proton VPN, Proton, Brave. Free plans typically include core features with usage limits.

How do I choose the right VPN tool?

Start by defining your team size, budget, and must-have features. Proton VPN is the top-rated option overall. For budget-conscious teams, Proton VPN offers strong value. Compare all 27 options side-by-side on Toolradar, where we evaluate features, pricing, ease of use, and user reviews.

For VPN vendors

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