Best VPN in the USA (2025)
Looking for the best VPN that fits your streaming, privacy, or budget needs? With so many options, finding the right one can be overwhelming. This guide narrows down top picks for U.S. users based on performance, security, and value—saving you hours of research.
⭐ Editor’s Top 3 Picks
- Overall Best: ExpressVPN — unmatched ease-of-use, top-tier privacy, and wide device support.
- Best Value: Surfshark — fast, feature-rich, and affordable with unlimited devices.
- Top Security Choice: NordVPN — advanced protection, excellent streaming, and audited privacy.
Detailed Reviews of the Best VPNs
1. ExpressVPN – Best Overall
ExpressVPN consistently leads thanks to its intuitive apps, high-speed performance, and powerful privacy features like RAM-only servers and TrustedServer technology:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}. Its multiple plans offer features like password manager and identity protection:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.
- Pros: Easy setup, 105 countries, strong streaming power, top-tier encryption.
- Cons: Pricier than others.
2. Surfshark – Best Value
Surfshark delivers unmatched value with fast speeds, unlimited device support, and privacy extras like split tunneling and ad blocking:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}. It stands out for affordability without sacrificing performance:contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.
- Pros: Unlimited devices, great streaming, excellent long-term price.
- Cons: Renewal prices can be steep.
3. NordVPN – Top Security Features
NordVPN shines with advanced privacy tools like Threat Protection, audited no-logs policy, and NordLynx protocol for speed:contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}. Experts consistently rank it the most feature-rich and robust VPN service:contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.
- Pros: Fast, secure, great for streaming and privacy.
- Cons: Pricey and slightly fewer U.S. locations.
4. Private Internet Access (PIA) – Best Cheap Option
PIA offers unmatched server coverage across all U.S. states, strong privacy policies verified by audits, and wallet-friendly pricing:contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.
5. Proton VPN – Best Privacy-Focused Service
Proton VPN is privacy-first, based in Switzerland with an audited no-logs policy and thousands of servers worldwide. Notably, it runs on OpenVPN, WireGuard, and offers Stealth Protocol for secure use in restrictive environments:contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.
Comparison Table: Best VPNs in 2025
| VPN | Best For | Key Strength | Price Level | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ExpressVPN | Overall Best | Ease-of-use & streaming | Premium | Buy |
| Surfshark | Best Value | Unlimited devices, affordable | Budget | Buy |
| NordVPN | Top Security | Audited protocols & extras | Premium | Buy |
| PIA | Cheapest | Full US coverage, low price | Budget | Buy |
| Proton VPN | Privacy Focused | Open-source, Swiss-based | Mid | Buy |
How to Choose the Best VPN
- Primary Use: Streaming → ExpressVPN or NordVPN. Privacy → Proton VPN. Budget → Surfshark or PIA.
- Security Features: Ensure AES-256 encryption, no-logs policy, kill switch, and audited infrastructure.
- Device Compatibility: Surfshark for unlimited devices; others range from 5–10.
- Geographic Reach: ExpressVPN’s global servers; PIA covers all U.S. states; Proton & Nord offer global privacy nodes.
- Ease of Use: ExpressVPN for novices; Nord & Surfshark for more features; Proton & PIA for tech-savvy users.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which VPN is best overall in 2025?
ExpressVPN stands out for its ease of use, high speeds, and streaming success—making it the best all-round choice.
Is there a great VPN under $3/month?
Yes—Surfshark and PIA offer long-term subscriptions that dip under $3/month, covering multiple devices without sacrificing quality.
Which VPN offers the most privacy?
Proton VPN offers the strongest privacy safeguards with open-source software, Swiss jurisdiction, and audited no-logs policy.
Are VPNs legal in the USA?
Yes—VPNs are legal in the U.S., though using one to bypass content restrictions may violate some services’ user agreements.
Final Verdict
Choose ExpressVPN if you want the smoothest, most reliable experience across streaming and browsing. Want more affordable protection with lots of features? Surfshark delivers exceptional value. For privacy-minded users, NordVPN and Proton VPN offer advanced security, while PIA keeps costs low without compromising access. Pick based on your priorities—and enjoy safe, unlimited online access.