Quick Overview
- 1#1: ExpressVPN - Delivers lightning-fast, secure VPN connections with an intuitive Windows app for unrestricted internet access and top-tier privacy.
- 2#2: NordVPN - Offers feature-packed VPN service with double encryption, Onion over VPN, and a robust Windows client for maximum security and speed.
- 3#3: Surfshark - Provides unlimited device connections, CleanWeb ad-blocking, and high-speed VPN performance via a sleek Windows application.
- 4#4: ProtonVPN - Ensures privacy-focused VPN with a free tier, Secure Core servers, and a reliable Windows app from the makers of Proton Mail.
- 5#5: Mullvad VPN - Delivers anonymous VPN service with no-logs policy, WireGuard support, and a simple, privacy-first Windows interface.
- 6#6: Private Internet Access - Supplies customizable VPN with proven no-logs audits, unlimited connections, and advanced features in its Windows software.
- 7#7: CyberGhost VPN - Features optimized servers for streaming and torrenting with a beginner-friendly Windows app and strong encryption.
- 8#8: IPVanish - Offers high-speed VPN with unlimited simultaneous connections and integrated kill switch in its powerful Windows client.
- 9#9: Windscribe - Combines generous free data allowance, ad-blocking, and firewall features in a versatile Windows VPN application.
- 10#10: TunnelBear - Simplifies VPN usage with a fun, easy-to-use Windows app, GhostBear obfuscation, and reliable privacy protection.
We ranked these tools by evaluating key factors like performance speed, security features, interface intuitiveness, and value, prioritizing reliability and practicality.
Comparison Table
Selecting the ideal PC VPN software is crucial for safeguarding online privacy and accessing content securely. This comparison table evaluates top tools—such as ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, ProtonVPN, Mullvad, and more—breaking down key features like speed, encryption, and device compatibility to help readers find their best fit.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ExpressVPN Delivers lightning-fast, secure VPN connections with an intuitive Windows app for unrestricted internet access and top-tier privacy. | other | 9.7/10 | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | NordVPN Offers feature-packed VPN service with double encryption, Onion over VPN, and a robust Windows client for maximum security and speed. | other | 9.4/10 | 9.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 3 | Surfshark Provides unlimited device connections, CleanWeb ad-blocking, and high-speed VPN performance via a sleek Windows application. | other | 9.2/10 | 9.4/10 | 9.3/10 | 9.7/10 |
| 4 | ProtonVPN Ensures privacy-focused VPN with a free tier, Secure Core servers, and a reliable Windows app from the makers of Proton Mail. | other | 8.7/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 5 | Mullvad VPN Delivers anonymous VPN service with no-logs policy, WireGuard support, and a simple, privacy-first Windows interface. | other | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 6 | Private Internet Access Supplies customizable VPN with proven no-logs audits, unlimited connections, and advanced features in its Windows software. | other | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 7 | CyberGhost VPN Features optimized servers for streaming and torrenting with a beginner-friendly Windows app and strong encryption. | other | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | IPVanish Offers high-speed VPN with unlimited simultaneous connections and integrated kill switch in its powerful Windows client. | other | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 9 | Windscribe Combines generous free data allowance, ad-blocking, and firewall features in a versatile Windows VPN application. | other | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 10 | TunnelBear Simplifies VPN usage with a fun, easy-to-use Windows app, GhostBear obfuscation, and reliable privacy protection. | other | 7.8/10 | 7.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 7.0/10 |
Delivers lightning-fast, secure VPN connections with an intuitive Windows app for unrestricted internet access and top-tier privacy.
Offers feature-packed VPN service with double encryption, Onion over VPN, and a robust Windows client for maximum security and speed.
Provides unlimited device connections, CleanWeb ad-blocking, and high-speed VPN performance via a sleek Windows application.
Ensures privacy-focused VPN with a free tier, Secure Core servers, and a reliable Windows app from the makers of Proton Mail.
Delivers anonymous VPN service with no-logs policy, WireGuard support, and a simple, privacy-first Windows interface.
Supplies customizable VPN with proven no-logs audits, unlimited connections, and advanced features in its Windows software.
Features optimized servers for streaming and torrenting with a beginner-friendly Windows app and strong encryption.
Offers high-speed VPN with unlimited simultaneous connections and integrated kill switch in its powerful Windows client.
Combines generous free data allowance, ad-blocking, and firewall features in a versatile Windows VPN application.
Simplifies VPN usage with a fun, easy-to-use Windows app, GhostBear obfuscation, and reliable privacy protection.
ExpressVPN
otherDelivers lightning-fast, secure VPN connections with an intuitive Windows app for unrestricted internet access and top-tier privacy.
Lightway protocol, a proprietary lightweight protocol that combines WireGuard-level speeds with OpenVPN-level security for unmatched performance on PC.
ExpressVPN is a premium VPN service renowned for delivering fast, secure, and private internet access on Windows PCs through its intuitive desktop app. It encrypts user traffic, masks IP addresses, and bypasses geo-restrictions while featuring advanced protocols like Lightway for optimal speed and reliability. With over 3,000 servers in 105 countries, it excels in streaming, torrenting, and everyday browsing, backed by a strict no-logs policy independently audited multiple times.
Pros
- Exceptional speeds with Lightway protocol, ideal for streaming and gaming
- Top-tier security including kill switch, split tunneling, and audited no-logs policy
- User-friendly Windows app with quick connect and 24/7 live chat support
Cons
- Higher pricing compared to budget VPNs
- Limited to 8 simultaneous connections
- No port forwarding or dedicated IP options
Best For
Privacy-focused PC users who need blazing-fast speeds for streaming, torrenting, and secure browsing without compromising on reliability.
Pricing
Monthly: $12.95; 6 months: $9.99/mo; 1 year: $8.32/mo; 2 years: $6.67/mo (all with 30-day money-back guarantee).
NordVPN
otherOffers feature-packed VPN service with double encryption, Onion over VPN, and a robust Windows client for maximum security and speed.
NordLynx protocol, delivering WireGuard-level speeds with double NAT for enhanced privacy
NordVPN is a premium VPN service with a highly regarded Windows app for PC users, providing secure internet access through over 6,400 servers in 111 countries. It excels in privacy with a strict no-logs policy independently audited multiple times, advanced encryption via the NordLynx protocol (WireGuard-based), and features like Double VPN, Onion Over VPN, and Threat Protection for blocking ads and malware. Ideal for streaming, torrenting, and bypassing geo-restrictions, it delivers consistently high speeds and robust security.
Pros
- Extensive server network for reliable global access and low latency
- Top-tier security with audited no-logs policy and innovative protocols like NordLynx
- Rich feature set including Meshnet for secure device networking and Threat Protection Pro
Cons
- Monthly plans are expensive compared to long-term deals
- Occasional app interface clutter from numerous features
- Customer support response times can vary during peak issues
Best For
Privacy-focused PC users who need high-speed connections, advanced security tools, and reliable unblocking for streaming and torrenting.
Pricing
Starts at $3.39/month (2-year plan, 76% off + 3 free months), $4.99/month (1-year), $12.99/month (monthly); 30-day money-back guarantee.
Surfshark
otherProvides unlimited device connections, CleanWeb ad-blocking, and high-speed VPN performance via a sleek Windows application.
Unlimited simultaneous connections
Surfshark is a highly capable VPN service for PC users, offering robust encryption, fast connection speeds, and unlimited simultaneous device connections via its intuitive Windows app. It excels in unblocking streaming services like Netflix and provides advanced privacy tools such as MultiHop double VPN and CleanWeb ad/malware blocker. With a strict no-logs policy independently audited, it's designed for users seeking reliable protection without speed compromises.
Pros
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Excellent speeds and streaming unblocking
- Feature-rich with ad blocker and MultiHop
Cons
- Headquartered in 14-Eyes alliance country
- Occasional app interface glitches
- Live chat support can be slow
Best For
Budget users needing VPN protection for unlimited devices while streaming geo-blocked content.
Pricing
From $2.49/month (2-year plan), monthly $12.95, 30-day money-back guarantee.
ProtonVPN
otherEnsures privacy-focused VPN with a free tier, Secure Core servers, and a reliable Windows app from the makers of Proton Mail.
Secure Core servers that route traffic through hardened data centers in Switzerland, Iceland, and Sweden for enhanced protection against advanced threats
ProtonVPN is a privacy-centric VPN service from Proton Technologies, offering secure, encrypted connections for Windows PCs to protect online privacy, bypass geo-restrictions, and prevent ISP tracking. It features a robust no-logs policy verified by independent audits, open-source apps, and advanced tools like Secure Core for double-hop routing. Available in free and paid tiers, it supports unlimited bandwidth and includes ad-blocking via NetShield.
Pros
- Top-tier privacy with audited no-logs policy and Swiss jurisdiction
- Generous free plan with unlimited data and strong encryption
- Open-source apps and unique Secure Core double-VPN servers
Cons
- Free plan limited to 3 countries with slower speeds
- Interface can feel cluttered with advanced options
- Fewer server locations (3,000+ across 65+ countries) than top rivals
Best For
Privacy-focused users seeking a reliable free tier or premium security features without compromising on ethics.
Pricing
Free plan; Plus from $9.99/month or $4.99/month annually; Visionary lifetime option at $479 one-time.
Mullvad VPN
otherDelivers anonymous VPN service with no-logs policy, WireGuard support, and a simple, privacy-first Windows interface.
Accountless signup using a generated 16-digit number, enabling true anonymity without email or personal data
Mullvad VPN is a privacy-focused VPN service based in Sweden, designed to provide secure and anonymous internet access without requiring personal information for signup. It features open-source apps for Windows and other platforms, supporting fast WireGuard and reliable OpenVPN protocols, along with advanced options like multi-hop routing and port forwarding. The service emphasizes a strict no-logs policy, independently audited, making it ideal for users seeking maximum anonymity.
Pros
- Strict no-logs policy with independent audits
- Anonymous account generation and payment options (crypto, cash)
- Fast speeds via WireGuard and open-source Windows app
Cons
- No live chat support, email/ticket only
- Minimalistic interface lacks some advanced customization
- Fewer server locations compared to larger competitors
Best For
Privacy-conscious users who value anonymity and security over bells-and-whistles features.
Pricing
Fixed €5/month (about $5.50 USD), no long-term discounts, supports anonymous payments like crypto and mailed cash.
Private Internet Access
otherSupplies customizable VPN with proven no-logs audits, unlimited connections, and advanced features in its Windows software.
Unlimited simultaneous connections across all devices
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a veteran VPN service offering robust privacy protection for PC users via its Windows app, encrypting internet traffic, masking IP addresses, and bypassing geo-restrictions. It features a strict no-logs policy proven in court and through third-party audits, alongside customizable options like split tunneling, kill switch, and port forwarding. PIA supports WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols for fast, secure connections across a network of over 35,000 servers in 91 countries.
Pros
- Proven no-logs policy with multiple audits and court validation
- Unlimited simultaneous device connections
- Port forwarding and strong torrenting support
Cons
- US jurisdiction raises concerns for ultimate privacy seekers
- Speeds can vary on distant servers
- Interface feels somewhat dated compared to competitors
Best For
Budget-conscious power users who prioritize privacy, torrent frequently, and need unlimited devices.
Pricing
Starts at $2.03/month (3-year plan), $2.69/month (2-year), $7.50/month (6-month), or $11.95/monthly; 30-day money-back guarantee.
CyberGhost VPN
otherFeatures optimized servers for streaming and torrenting with a beginner-friendly Windows app and strong encryption.
NoSpy servers in Romania, owned and operated solely by CyberGhost for ultimate privacy without third-party involvement
CyberGhost VPN is a user-friendly VPN service designed for PC users, providing secure browsing, streaming unblocking, and torrenting support through its dedicated Windows app. With over 11,400 servers across 100 countries, it offers optimized servers for specific platforms like Netflix and BBC iPlayer. It emphasizes privacy with a strict no-logs policy that's been independently audited and features like NoSpy servers for enhanced anonymity.
Pros
- Massive server network for reliable global access
- Excellent streaming and torrenting optimization
- Highly intuitive Windows interface with one-click connect
Cons
- Speeds can vary on distant servers
- No port forwarding option
- Short-term plans are relatively expensive
Best For
Streamers and beginners on Windows PCs who want hassle-free unblocking of geo-restricted content.
Pricing
Starts at $2.19/month for 2-year plan (up to 83% off), $6.99/month for 1-year, $12.99/month monthly; 45-day money-back guarantee.
IPVanish
otherOffers high-speed VPN with unlimited simultaneous connections and integrated kill switch in its powerful Windows client.
Unlimited simultaneous connections
IPVanish is a robust VPN service with a dedicated Windows app that encrypts internet traffic, masks IP addresses, and enables access to geo-restricted content on PCs. It features over 2,400 servers across 100+ locations, supports WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2 protocols, and includes tools like split tunneling, kill switch, and SOCKS5 proxy for enhanced privacy and torrenting. Ideal for users seeking reliable everyday VPN protection on desktop.
Pros
- Unlimited simultaneous connections on all devices
- Strong speeds suitable for streaming and P2P torrenting
- Audited no-logs policy and robust security features like kill switch
Cons
- US-based jurisdiction (Five Eyes alliance)
- Inconsistent unblocking of some streaming services like Netflix
- Smaller server network compared to top competitors
Best For
Privacy-focused PC users who torrent frequently and connect multiple devices simultaneously on a budget.
Pricing
Monthly: $12.99; 1-year: $6.49/mo; 2-year: $3.33/mo (billed upfront with frequent discounts).
Windscribe
otherCombines generous free data allowance, ad-blocking, and firewall features in a versatile Windows VPN application.
ROBERT, a customizable blocker for ads, trackers, and malware integrated directly into the VPN app
Windscribe is a privacy-focused VPN service offering secure, encrypted connections for PC users via its intuitive Windows desktop app. It provides access to servers in over 60 countries, supports protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN, and includes unique tools such as split tunneling, a kill switch, and the ROBERT ad/tracker blocker. With a generous free tier limited to 10-15GB monthly data and paid plans for unlimited usage, it's designed for users seeking robust privacy without complexity.
Pros
- Generous free plan with 10-15GB data per month
- ROBERT built-in ad, tracker, and malware blocker
- Strong privacy with audited no-logs policy and customizable firewall
Cons
- Fewer server locations than top competitors (69 countries)
- Speeds can be inconsistent on distant servers
- Customer support primarily via tickets, slower response times
Best For
Budget-conscious PC users wanting a free or low-cost VPN with ad-blocking and strong privacy features for everyday browsing and light streaming.
Pricing
Free (10-15GB/month); Pro: $9/month, $5.75/month (annual), $49 lifetime; Build-a-Plan custom pay-per-location.
TunnelBear
otherSimplifies VPN usage with a fun, easy-to-use Windows app, GhostBear obfuscation, and reliable privacy protection.
Interactive tunnel map for visually selecting and connecting to servers
TunnelBear is a user-friendly VPN service designed for Windows PC and other platforms, offering encrypted internet access and IP masking through servers in over 45 countries. It emphasizes simplicity with a fun bear-themed interface and essential features like a kill switch and obfuscation. Ideal for casual browsing and basic privacy needs, it includes a generous free tier with 2GB monthly data.
Pros
- Extremely intuitive interface with interactive tunnel map
- Strong no-logs policy independently audited
- Reliable VigilantBear kill switch and GhostBear obfuscation
Cons
- Limited server network compared to top competitors
- Slower speeds especially on distant connections
- No advanced features like split tunneling or dedicated IP
Best For
Beginners and casual users seeking a simple, hassle-free VPN for everyday browsing on PC.
Pricing
Free (2GB/month); Unlimited annual plan at $3.33/month ($59.88/year) or $9.99/month.
Conclusion
The review highlights a standout leader in ExpressVPN, which excels with fast, secure connections and an easy-to-use Windows app. Competing strongly, NordVPN offers advanced features like double encryption, while Surfshark impresses with unlimited device support and ad-blocking. Together, these top three provide exceptional options, catering to varied needs from speed to security.
Take the first step toward unrestricted, private browsing—try the top-ranked ExpressVPN and experience seamless, secure internet access.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison