

2025 VPN Pricing, Comparison Reviews and Recommendations
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a technology that protects users' online security by encrypting internet traffic and routing it through remote servers. Common uses include hiding IP addresses, securing public Wi-Fi connections, and bypassing regional restrictions to access content.
As 2025 approaches, choosing a VPN is especially important. The growth of online threats, such as phishing attacks and data breaches, puts personal information at risk. Additionally, more streaming platforms impose regional restrictions on content (like Netflix and Disney+), preventing users from freely watching programs. Concerns about digital footprints and privacy are also increasing. Therefore, using a VPN has become an essential tool for protecting personal privacy, allowing users to feel more secure online.
VPN Functions
1. Anonymous Browsing
Using a VPN allows users to take on a different IP address without revealing their true IP address, making it more difficult to track or identify them.
2. Data Transmission Through Special Encrypted Channels
By establishing a special encrypted channel and encrypting data, ISPs cannot read or track users' online activities, enhancing personal privacy protection.
3. Geolocation Masking and Unrestricted Access
Some websites have geographic restrictions (Geoblocking). VPN providers typically have servers worldwide, allowing users to connect to a VPN server located in a country where the website is accessible, enabling them to watch video content smoothly.
4. Kill Switch (Network Lock)
If the VPN connection drops unexpectedly due to an unstable network, the program will automatically lock the internet connection to prevent users from engaging in online activities without the VPN.
5. Split Tunnelling
Users can choose which applications need to connect through the VPN, creating two sets of connections.
6. Zero-Knowledge DNS
When browsing the internet, the URLs entered must be resolved through a Domain Name System (DNS) to obtain the true IP address. VPN providers with a zero-knowledge DNS system allow users to query IP addresses without leaving a record.
VPN Service Selection Criteria
1. Security and Privacy
- Standardized AES-256 encryption to ensure data is not intercepted
- Strict no-logs policy to ensure that providers do not record users' online activities
- Support for multiple protocols (e.g. OpenVPN, WireGuard) to meet different needs
2. Speed and Performance
- No bandwidth restrictions, suitable for downloading large files or streaming
- The distribution of global server networks affects connection speeds for users
3. Compatibility
- Support for mainstream devices, such as Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile platforms like iOS and Android
- Availability of browser extensions (e.g., for Chrome, Firefox)
4. User Experience
- Simple and user-friendly interface design suitable for non-technical users
- Availability of 24/7 customer support, such as live chat features
5. Pricing and Value
- Comparison of monthly and annual fees across different services, as well as the availability of lifetime subscription plans
- Importance of free trials and 30-day money-back guarantees
2025 Top VPN Service Recommendations*
Monthly Plan Price | Advantages | Disadvantages | |
ExpressVPN |
USD$12.95/month |
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NordVPN |
USD$12.99/month |
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Surfshark |
USD$15.45/month |
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CyberGhost |
USD$12.99/month |
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Private Internet Access (PIA) |
USD$11.95/month |
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Security and Privacy:
OpenVPN and WireGuard both support advanced encryption technologies and protocols, providing strong data protection. ExpressVPN offers 256-bit AES encryption and supports multiple protocols to ensure user security. NordVPN provides double encryption and CyberSec technology for enhanced protection against malicious sites. Surfshark's no-logs policy and Kill Switch feature automatically protect user privacy during outages. CyberGhost has a transparent privacy policy and offers multi-hop connections for added security. PIA allows custom encryption options for tech-savvy users to adjust security settings based on their needs.
Speed Tests:
ExpressVPN generally exhibits fast download speeds in Asia, North America, and Europe, with relatively low latency, making it suitable for high-bandwidth users. NordVPN performs better in North America and Europe. Surfshark has shorter latency times worldwide, making it ideal for users needing quick connections. CyberGhost shows minimal impact during server switching, maintaining stable speeds suitable for streaming and downloading. PIA has slower performance during server transitions.
User Reviews:
ExpressVPN provides good speed and stability, especially for users needing to bypass restrictions. NordVPN offers robust security and diverse features. Surfshark's unlimited device connection feature is excellent for families. CyberGhost's user-friendly interface is suitable for beginners. PIA's open-source transparency appeals to tech users seeking customizable settings.
*information updated in January, 2025
2024 VPN Service Review Report
▾4 to 5 Stars▾
Service | Maintained Upload/Download Speed | Browsing Speed | Features | Ease of Use | Resource Usage | Network Security | Privacy | Overall Rating |
Proton VPN Plus |
77% or above |
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hide.me VPN |
80% or above |
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CyberGhost VPN |
75% |
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Surfshark VPN |
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Windscribe Pro |
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ExpressVPN |
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Bitdefender Premium VPN |
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Avast SecureLine VPN |
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Private Internet Access (PIA) |
only reach 19% or below |
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NordVPN |
78% or above |
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Proton VPN Plus and Private Internet Access (PIA) do not transmit any user data to third-party websites, while other VPN providers may send some device data (like tablet model) to third-party sites.
Source: Consumer Council
How to Choose the Right VPN for You?
If your primary use is streaming:
Recommended services are ExpressVPN and NordVPN, which support Netflix and Disney+.
If you need an affordable solution:
Consider Surfshark and CyberGhost that are good value for money.
If you are concerned about advanced privacy protection:
Look at NordVPN or PIA, which support Multi-Hop and have no-logs policies.
Users can test multiple services and utilize free trials and refund policies to find the most suitable option for themselves.
When selecting a VPN service, individuals should choose the plan that best meets their needs. For users seeking high security and privacy, consider NordVPN and ExpressVPN, which offer advanced encryption technologies and no-logs policies to better protect user data. For those who enjoy streaming and downloading, Surfshark offers fast speeds and unlimited device connections. Besides considering price, it’s essential to think about security and user experience. As technology and online threats evolve, users should regularly update their VPN services to ensure safe internet usage.