Independent VPN Safety Tests & Reviews

We test and review the top VPN services so you can find the best one for your privacy and security needs.

See Top-Rated VPNs Our Test Process
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Top-Rated VPN Services in 2025

Based on our rigorous security tests, privacy analysis, and performance measurements, these are the best VPN services available today.

Editor's Choice
9.8/10
No-logs policy verified through independent audits
Lightning-fast NordLynx protocol based on WireGuard
5400+ servers in 59 countries worldwide
Advanced security features like Double VPN and Onion over VPN
Starting at $3.99/month with a 2-year plan
Visit NordVPN Read Full Review
Best Value
9.5/10
Unlimited simultaneous device connections
3200+ servers in 100 countries
CleanWeb ad and malware blocker included
MultiHop and Camouflage Mode for extra privacy
Starting at $2.49/month with a 2-year plan
Visit Surfshark Read Full Review
Premium Pick
9.4/10
Consistently fast speeds with Lightway protocol
3000+ servers in 94 countries
Easy-to-use apps for all major platforms
24/7 live chat support and 30-day money-back guarantee
Starting at $6.67/month with a 1-year plan
Visit ExpressVPN Read Full Review
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Why Trust Our VPN Reviews?

We go beyond marketing claims to thoroughly test every VPN service using our advanced security testing methodology.

Rigorous Testing

We conduct comprehensive security tests using a variety of tools and methodologies to identify any potential privacy leaks.

Unbiased Reviews

We maintain editorial independence and transparency about our review process, testing criteria, and revenue model.

Global Testing

Our tests are conducted from multiple locations worldwide to verify performance and accessibility across regions.

Our VPN Testing Methodology

We follow a rigorous, data-driven approach to evaluate every VPN service using these key steps:

1

Security & Privacy Analysis

We analyze encryption protocols, DNS leak protection, kill switch effectiveness, and logging policies to ensure your data remains truly private.

Excellent: Zero DNS/IP/WebRTC leaks
Poor: Detected leaks or weak encryption
2

Speed & Performance Testing

We measure download/upload speeds, latency, and connection stability across multiple server locations during different times of day.

Excellent: Less than 15% speed reduction
Poor: More than 50% speed reduction
3

Feature & Usability Evaluation

We assess the VPN's features, user interface, device compatibility, and customer support to ensure it meets diverse user needs.

Excellent: Intuitive UI with advanced features
Poor: Confusing interface with limited features

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most common questions about VPNs and our review process.

What exactly does a VPN do?

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts your internet connection and routes it through a server in a location of your choosing. This has two main benefits:

  1. Privacy and Security: Your ISP, government, and hackers can't see what websites you visit or data you transmit.
  2. Location Masking: By connecting to a server in another country, you can access geo-restricted content or bypass censorship.

A quality VPN should protect against DNS leaks, offer strong encryption, and maintain a strict no-logs policy.

How do you test VPN security?

We conduct a series of comprehensive security tests, including:

  • DNS leak tests across multiple server locations
  • WebRTC leak tests to ensure your real IP remains hidden
  • IPv6 leak tests to detect any IP address exposures
  • Kill switch effectiveness under various network interruptions
  • Encryption protocol analysis and verification
  • Scrutiny of the VPN's privacy policy and logging practices

We also investigate the VPN provider's jurisdiction, history, and ownership to assess any potential privacy concerns.

Are free VPNs safe to use?

Most free VPNs should be approached with caution. Our testing reveals that free VPNs often have significant drawbacks:

  • Many collect and sell user data to advertisers
  • Some contain malware or adware
  • Most have limited server options, slow speeds, and data caps
  • Many lack essential security features like kill switches
  • Some leak DNS requests or IP addresses

We recommend paid VPNs with proven security records. If you must use a free VPN, consider the free tiers from reputable providers like ProtonVPN or Windscribe, which we've tested for security compliance.

Which VPN is best for streaming?

Based on our extensive testing, the best VPNs for streaming are those that consistently unblock popular platforms and maintain fast speeds for buffer-free viewing. Our top recommendations include:

  1. NordVPN: Excellent for Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and more with minimal speed reduction
  2. ExpressVPN: Reliable streaming performance with wide platform support
  3. Surfshark: Affordable option with strong streaming capabilities

When evaluating streaming performance, we test each VPN with multiple streaming services from various global locations, checking both accessibility and video quality.

How do you make money if your reviews are unbiased?

VPNSafetyCheck is supported through affiliate marketing. When you purchase a VPN through our links, we may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. However:

  • We refuse compensation for positive reviews or higher rankings
  • Our testing methodology remains consistent across all providers
  • We clearly disclose performance issues and security concerns
  • We recommend products based on merit, not commission rates
  • Our editorial team operates independently from business partnerships

This business model allows us to maintain high-quality, well-researched content while keeping it free for our readers.

Protect Your Online Privacy Today

Find the perfect VPN to secure your connection, protect your personal data, and browse with complete freedom.

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