Best VPN Software
Virtual private networks that encrypt traffic and protect privacy online.
Read our ranked guide: Best VPN Services →We compare 5 VPN tools. NordVPN is our top pick at 4.6/5 (from $4/mo). Entry pricing runs $2–$7/mo, averaging $5/mo. 1 offers a free tier.
Proton VPN comes from the makers of Proton Mail, with a strong privacy reputation, open-source apps, and the only reputable unlimited free plan.
ExpressVPN is known for reliability, strong unblocking, and apps on virtually every platform including routers. Premium-priced but consistently dependable.
All VPN tools compared
| # | Tool | Starts at | Rating | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | NordVPN Fast, feature-rich consumer VPN | $4/mo | 4.6/5 | Privacy-conscious consumers |
| 2 | Proton VPN Privacy-first VPN with a real free tier | Free | 4.6/5 | Privacy purists |
| 3 | ExpressVPN Reliable, easy VPN with wide device support | $7/mo | 4.5/5 | Users wanting simplicity |
| 4 | Surfshark Unlimited devices at a low price | $2/mo | 4.5/5 | Households & budget users |
| 5 | Mullvad Anonymous, flat-rate privacy VPN | $5/mo | 4.5/5 | Privacy enthusiasts |
How to choose VPN tools
Best rated → NordVPN
4.6/5 across 19,800 reviews. Very fast.
Best free option → Proton VPN
Has a genuine free tier, so you can test before spending.
- Check whether pricing is per seat — it multiplies with team size.
- Headline prices usually assume annual billing; monthly costs more.
- Start on a free tier or trial before committing to a year.
- Confirm the integrations you already rely on are supported.
Popular comparisons in this category
Frequently asked questions
What is the best VPN tool option?+
NordVPN is our top-rated pick, scoring 4.6/5 and starting at $4/mo. Very fast The best choice still depends on budget and team size — see the ranked list above.
How many VPN tools are compared here?+
We currently compare 5 VPN tools on pricing, features, and ratings, averaging 4.5/5.
Are there free VPN tools?+
Yes — 1 of the 5 here has a free tier: Proton VPN.
How much do VPN tools cost?+
Entry pricing here runs from $2/mo to $7/mo, averaging $5/mo. The cheapest paid option is Surfshark at $2/mo.