VPN reviews and guides

We test VPNs for at least 30 days across multiple devices before we write. Real speed, streaming compatibility, IPTV app testing, current pricing and the flaws that only show up after weeks of use.

Why use a VPN

The reasons that actually matter:

1. Watch content when traveling. Pay for YouTube TV in the US? A VPN with a US server lets you keep watching from abroad.
2. Access other countries' catalogs. UK Netflix has shows the US doesn't. A VPN opens that.
3. Privacy on public WiFi. Cafes, hotels, airports — anyone can sniff your traffic.
4. Avoid ISP throttling. Some ISPs slow down streaming or IPTV. A VPN bypasses that.
5. Get around blocks. If a service is blocked where you are, a VPN usually solves it.

What's not a reason to use a VPN: pirating content. It's illegal with or without a VPN, and a VPN doesn't protect you legally if providers cooperate with authorities (they do).

How we pick VPNs

We test in these categories:

• Real speed (not the marketing number). Tests from US East and West Coast to 5 international servers at peak hours.
• Server count and locations. Especially US, UK, Canada and Australia.
• Streaming compatibility. Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, Disney+, Prime Video.
• IPTV compatibility. Whether the VPN drops or blocks legal IPTV apps.
• Privacy. No-logs policy, jurisdiction, independent audits.
• Real price. What you pay year two, not the year-one promo.
• Support. We test the 24/7 chat.

The VPNs we cover

Surfshark — Our top pick

High consistent speeds, low price (~$2.49/mo on 24-month plan), unlimited devices per account. Works with every streaming service we tested. Only downside: initial connection takes 3-5 seconds sometimes.

Surfshark review (coming soon).

NordVPN — Most stable alternative

More expensive than Surfshark but more mature. 5,800+ servers. Best Smart TV app. Slightly slower. For users who value stability over price.

NordVPN review (coming soon). NordVPN vs Surfshark (coming soon).

ExpressVPN — The premium pick

Most expensive (around $6.67/mo on annual plan). Reason: consistently top speeds and the cleanest Fire TV app. If budget isn't an issue, ExpressVPN is the choice.

IPVanish — Streaming and Fire TV focus

Massive in the US for its excellent Fire TV app. High CPC in 2026 ($72) signals serious market consideration. Good for streaming and legal IPTV.

IPVanish review (coming soon).

CyberGhost — Beginner friendly

Simple interface, servers literally labeled "Netflix US", "Hulu Streaming", "Disney+ US". Competitive price. Average speeds.

ProtonVPN — Free plan that actually works

The only legitimate free VPN. Reduced speeds on free plan but no data cap. Paid plan is competitive. Swiss company. Independent security audits.

Others

We also cover Atlas VPN, Private Internet Access (PIA), Mullvad, Hide.me in individual reviews.

VPN by use case

• Best VPN for IPTV — VPNs that don't block legal IPTV streaming.
• Best VPN for Firestick — installation and performance.
• Best VPN for Kodi — for legal Kodi addons.
• Best VPN for streaming — Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max geo unblocking.
• Best VPN for Plex — for remote Plex server access.

Setup guides

• Install VPN on Firestick (coming soon).
• Install VPN on Android TV (coming soon).
• Install VPN on router (coming soon).

US-specific notes

In the US the VPN market is mature and competitive. CPCs are 3-10× higher than in Spain. NordVPN, Surfshark and ExpressVPN dominate, with IPVanish strong in the Fire TV streaming niche.

State-level laws don't really affect VPN use (it's regulated federally), but check the federal CFAA if you're using a VPN to bypass a system you're not authorized to access.

Important reminder

A VPN doesn't make you anonymous. If you log into Gmail, Facebook, or your bank, they know who you are even with a VPN. A VPN changes your visible IP for websites but doesn't hide your identity from services where you sign in.

It also doesn't protect against phishing, malware, or human error. It's one tool among many.