Best VPN services for November 2024

Virtual private networks (VPNs) are essential for online security, protecting against hackers, ISPs, and digital threats. VPNs reroute traffic through an encrypted server, hiding users' locations and online activity. However, not all VPNs offer the same quality. In 2024, only a few stand out as the best options, especially when considering factors like speed, affordability, and specific needs.

After testing 41 VPNs, a research team identified the top ten VPNs tailored for different use cases. For a detailed look at the best VPNs, read on for the full evaluation.

What are the benefits of using a VPN?

To fully grasp the advantages of a VPN, it is first essential to comprehend how it operates. In short, the service encrypts and reroutes your internet data via a distant server.

High-quality VPN services use encryption standards that guarantee your surfing patterns are completely unreadable by threat actors, Wi-Fi network administrators, and internet service providers. This implies that nobody can keep an eye on your internet activity and steal your personal data.

Most VPN providers offer a variety of server locations, enabling you to change your virtual location easily. By rerouting your traffic, VPNs conceal your true IP address and location, letting you bypass geographic restrictions and access content from other regions. This is especially useful for unblocking content, such as foreign films or restricted websites, while keeping your online activities private.

NordVPN: The best VPN service for speed and security in 2024

NordVPN stands out as one of the top VPNs of 2024 due to its extensive server network, with over 6,400 servers across 111 countries, offering high-speed connectivity worldwide. Based in Panama, it ensures privacy by operating outside the 14-Eyes jurisdiction, protecting users from international data-sharing alliances. It’s compatible with various operating systems, including Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS, making it versatile and user-friendly. Currently, NordVPN offers a 74% discount with three additional months free, adding incredible value to its already strong privacy, security, and accessibility features.

Privacy and security – excellent ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

When it comes to client privacy, NordVPN is a great option. Excellent security features include RAM-only servers, AES-256 and ChaCha20 (with NordLynx) encryption, a dependable kill switch, Dark Web Monitoring, Threat Protection, and more. Because Panama has no regulations governing data retention, NordVPN operates there in a privacy-friendly environment. Additionally, the provider's no-logs policy was audited four times by outside auditing organizations. To further differentiate itself from rivals, NordVPN has made it a yearly routine to have PricewaterhouseCoopers perform a thorough independent security audit of its no-logging policy.

Speed and performance – excellent ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

NordVPN continuously ranked among the fastest VPNs I've tested in my hands-on testing. It offers seamless surfing, streaming, and downloading while maintaining an average of up to 90% of the original internet speeds. Its proprietary NordLynx tunneling technology, a contemporary version of the well-known WireGuard, is partially to blame for this. A screenshot of the results of our most recent NordVPN speed test is shown below. 

In terms of streaming, Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Max, and almost any other streaming service might be unblocked by NordVPN. Additionally, I tested the VPN connection on gadgets like smart TVs and game consoles that don't support native VPN programs. I was able to stream without any restrictions on a variety of devices because of Smart DNS technology. You can benefit from a VPN on a device that doesn't support native VPN apps by setting it up to use the VPN's DNS address.

Usability and user experience – excellent ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

My preferred VPN for completing a variety of chores on my PC and smartphone is NordVPN, which I use virtually every day. In general, I have almost no problems with the service. Despite having many features, the program is well-structured and manageable. The app's world map, which allows users to explore the globe and connect to VPN servers, is its most noticeable visual element. Because it enables the VPN connection without requiring any input, this function appeals to some users. In my opinion, the feature takes up too much room on the screen given how simple its operation is. Additionally, if you wish to connect to a specialist server, it doesn't function. 

NordVPN is compatible with all major platforms like Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, as well as Android TV, Raspberry Pi, and Fire Stick. It allows up to 10 simultaneous connections, ideal for household use. Customer support is available 24/7 via live chat and email, with a robust support page and guides in multiple languages, including Spanish, German, and Japanese. However, there is no phone support. For more detailed information, you can visit the official support page.

Server network and locations – very good ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Across 111 countries, NordVPN boasts an impressive network of 6400 servers. The nation variety is the most impressive on the list, and the number of servers is above average. Since the entire fleet is RAM-only, every server is fundamentally private and secure. In essence, RAM servers cannot store data for an extended period of time, and any data stored on them is erased upon rebooting or unplugging. NordVPN provides a variety of specialized servers for enhanced security if that is insufficient. The Double VPN, Obfuscated, Onion over VPN, and P2P server types are specifically available for connection; these are all self-explanatory. 

Cost and value – very good ⭐⭐⭐⭐

NordVPN is surprisingly affordable, considering it’s the best VPN on the market (at least in my opinion). Naturally, you’ll only enjoy reasonable prices if you commit to a lengthy two-year plan. Otherwise, you’ll have to pay at least $12.99 every month. However, NordVPN offers a few trial methods for testing the service before making a long-term commitment.

For starters, there’s the industry-standard 30-day money-back guarantee, which comes with every subscription plan. There’s also a 7-day free trial, but you can only claim it on the Google Play Store using an Android device. As expected, this trial comes with other terms and conditions. Namely, you’ll have to provide payment details, and you’ll be switched to an annual subscription if you don’t cancel before the trial ends.

NordVPN’s pricing structure is quite elaborate and suitable for any budget. There are three subscription tiers (Basic, Plus, Ultimate), each supporting three subscription periods (monthly, annual, two-year). So, if you opt for the Basic plan for two years, you'll have the cheapest $2.99/month price. However, you’ll have to pay the entire subscription cost upfront. 

Personal experience – very good ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Almost every day, I use NordVPN on both my smartphone and desktop PC. To put it briefly, it functions well, and I typically don't even realize it operating in the background. It goes without saying that the service does occasionally have problems because I use it so frequently. The most frequent one is that I have to restart my computer's NordVPN software. However, it normally occurs when I turn on my computer, and the software resolves the problem on its own without any problems. Although I don't use the app much on my phone, I appreciate that it connects to a server as soon as I turn it on. This expedites the procedure without requiring more time from me.