Best VPNs Of 2024

Imagine browsing the internet without worrying about hackers, data breaches, or geo-restrictions. In 2024, online privacy is more critical than ever, with cyber threats on the rise. As parents, protecting your family’s digital footprint is a top priority. That’s why we’ve reviewed the best VPNs of 2024 to help you find the perfect solution for your needs. Whether it’s streaming your favorite shows, securing sensitive information, or ensuring your kids’ online safety, our guide will provide you with the most reliable and user-friendly VPN options available. Let’s dive into the top choices that will keep your family safe online.

Top 10 Reasons Why Your Family Needs a VPN in 2024

1. Protect Your Family’s Privacy: A VPN shields your entire family’s online activity, ensuring no one can track or collect personal data as you browse or shop online.
2. Keep Kids Safe Online: VPNs prevent malicious websites, trackers, and hackers from accessing your children’s devices, offering a safer online experience for kids.
3. Access Family-Friendly Content: VPNs help you bypass geo-restrictions, allowing your family to stream kid-friendly shows, movies, or educational content from any country.
4. Secure Home Wi-Fi Network: With smart devices connected to your home network, a VPN encrypts the data flow, protecting your family from potential cyberattacks.
5. Guard Against Cyber Threats: As cyberattacks increase, a VPN provides an extra layer of defense for every family member, ensuring your sensitive information is secure.
6. Prevent Data Breaches: VPNs can stop hackers from intercepting personal family data, such as passwords, medical information, and banking details, while you’re online.
7. Protect Remote Learning & Working: With more family members learning and working from home, a VPN ensures secure internet use for schoolwork or remote jobs.
8. Avoid ISP Throttling: A VPN prevents your Internet Service Provider from slowing down your family’s connection during activities like streaming, gaming, or video calls.
9. Bypass Censorship: If you’re traveling with family or living in countries with restricted internet, a VPN ensures everyone can access the information they need.
10. Family-Wide Anonymity: VPNs protect the identity of each family member, keeping their online activity private and anonymous across all devices.

Criteria for Choosing the Best VPN

When selecting the best VPN, security should be your top priority. Look for strong encryption, such as AES-256, to ensure your data remains private. A no-logs policy guarantees that your online activities aren’t tracked or stored, while a kill switch provides an extra layer of protection by automatically disconnecting you from the internet if the VPN connection drops, preventing data leaks.

Performance is another critical factor. A good VPN offers fast speeds, a wide range of server locations, and unlimited bandwidth, so your browsing or streaming experience isn’t slowed down. The more servers a VPN has, the better your chances of finding a high-speed connection wherever you are.

Next, consider ease of use. The best VPNs have intuitive interfaces that make setup and usage simple, even for beginners. Look for services that offer reliable customer support to quickly resolve any issues.

Compatibility is also key. Make sure the VPN works seamlessly across different devices and operating systems, from smartphones and laptops to smart TVs.

Finally, check for additional features like split tunneling (to decide which traffic is encrypted), multi-device support, and browser extensions for added convenience and flexibility in managing your online security.

Best VPN of 2024, Summarized

1. ExpressVPN: Best for speed with military-grade encryption and a reliable kill switch.
2. NordVPN: Best for all-around value, combining double-layered security with CyberSec ad and malware blocking.
3. Surfshark: Best for families, allowing unlimited device connections and strong ad-blocking features.
4. CyberGhost: Best for streaming, offering specialized servers for seamless streaming and torrenting.
5. Private Internet Access (PIA): Best for privacy, with customizable encryption and a transparent no-logs policy.

Breaking Down of The Best VPN of 2024 in Details

1. ExpressVPN

Overview:

ExpressVPN is considered the best VPN of 2024 for its superior privacy, speed, and ease of use. With over 3,000 servers in 94 countries, it offers excellent performance for streaming, browsing, and securing your online activity. The service boasts top-tier encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and a kill switch. ExpressVPN’s pricing starts at $12.95 per month, with discounts on annual plans, making it a premium option for those serious about privacy and security.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

1. Blazing-fast speeds for streaming and gaming.
2. Strong security features, including AES-256 encryption and a no-logs policy.
3. Supports a wide range of devices and operating systems.
4. Excellent customer support with 24/7 live chat.

Cons:

1. Higher price compared to other VPNs.
2. No free trial, though there is a 30-day money-back guarantee.
3. Limited simultaneous device connections (5 per account).
4. Some users may find the mobile app too simplistic.

Details About Pricing and Plan:

ExpressVPN’s standard plan starts at $12.95/month, but the 12-month plan offers better value at $8.32/month (billed annually at $99.95). All plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Unique Features:

ExpressVPN stands out with its Lightway protocol, which ensures faster connection speeds and improved battery life. The split tunneling feature allows you to choose which apps use the VPN, and MediaStreamer enables VPN functionality on devices like game consoles that don’t natively support VPNs.

Who It’s Best For:

ExpressVPN is ideal for anyone looking for strong security and fast speeds, especially frequent travelers, streamers, and gamers who need reliable access across multiple devices.

User Reviews:

Users praise ExpressVPN for its speed and unblocking capabilities, making it a favorite for accessing geo-restricted content. Its ease of use and responsive customer support are also frequently highlighted as standout features. Some users, however, feel the pricing is on the higher side but agree it’s worth the investment for the performance delivered.

2. NordVPN

Overview:

NordVPN is one of the best VPNs of 2024, offering a perfect balance of security, speed, and affordability. With over 5,600 servers across 60 countries, it provides reliable and fast connections for streaming, gaming, and secure browsing. Key features include military-grade encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and specialized servers for specific tasks like P2P and Tor browsing. Pricing starts at $12.99 per month, with significant discounts on long-term plans, making it a great option for privacy-conscious users.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

1. Strong security with AES-256 encryption and double VPN feature.
2. Affordable long-term plans with excellent value.
3. Specialized servers for enhanced privacy and P2P support.
4. Supports up to 6 simultaneous connections per account.

Cons:

1. Occasional slowdowns on certain servers.
2. The desktop app can be a bit clunky for beginners.
3. No dedicated IP address included in basic plans.
4. Some users report inconsistent speeds during peak times.

Details About Pricing and Plan:

NordVPN’s monthly plan costs $12.99, but their best value is the 2-year plan at $3.29/month (billed $88.83 every two years). All plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Unique Features:

NordVPN shines with its Double VPN feature, which routes your traffic through two servers for extra security. It also offers Threat Protection to block malware, ads, and trackers, as well as Meshnet for secure, encrypted connections between devices.

Who It’s Best For:

NordVPN is perfect for users who need a VPN for enhanced security, frequent torrenting, or accessing geo-restricted content. It’s also ideal for those looking for affordable long-term plans.

User Reviews:

Users love NordVPN for its robust security features and great value on long-term plans. It’s frequently praised for its ability to bypass geo-restrictions, making it a favorite for streaming platforms. Some users mention occasional speed drops, but overall, reviews highlight its excellent balance of performance and price.

3. Surfshark

Overview:

Surfshark has quickly become one of the best VPNs of 2024 due to its affordability, unlimited device connections, and strong security features. With over 3,200 servers in 100 countries, Surfshark offers fast, reliable access for streaming, gaming, and online privacy. It uses top-notch encryption and includes features like CleanWeb, which blocks ads and malware. Pricing starts at $12.95/month, but its long-term plans make it one of the most budget-friendly options on the market.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

1. Unlimited simultaneous device connections.
2. Strong security features, including AES-256 encryption and CleanWeb.
3. Affordable long-term pricing plans.
4. Excellent for streaming and bypassing geo-restrictions.

Cons:

1. Slower speeds on some distant servers.
2. No dedicated IP option.
3. Fewer specialized servers compared to competitors.
4. Some users report occasional connection drops.

Details About Pricing and Plan:

Surfshark offers a monthly plan for $12.95, but its best deal is the 24-month plan at just $2.39/month (billed $59.76 every two years). All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Unique Features:

Surfshark’s standout feature is unlimited device connections, allowing you to protect every device in your household under one account. Additionally, CleanWeb blocks ads, trackers, and malware, and Camouflage Mode hides your VPN usage from your ISP, making it a top choice for privacy.

Who It’s Best For:

Surfshark is ideal for families, budget-conscious users, or those needing a VPN across multiple devices. It’s also great for people looking for affordable access to streaming content worldwide.

User Reviews:

Users love Surfshark for its unlimited device connections and budget-friendly pricing. It’s praised for its ease of use and ability to unblock popular streaming services. Some users note slower speeds on distant servers, but most agree that its value and performance are hard to beat.

4. CyberGhost

Overview:

CyberGhost is one of the best VPNs of 2024, known for its user-friendly interface and excellent privacy features. It boasts over 9,000 servers in 91 countries, making it ideal for bypassing geo-restrictions and accessing content worldwide. CyberGhost uses AES-256 encryption and follows a strict no-logs policy. Starting at $12.99/month, it also offers highly affordable long-term plans, making it a strong contender for privacy-conscious users looking for value.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

1. Extensive server network with 9,000+ servers in 91 countries.
2. User-friendly apps, great for beginners.
3. Affordable long-term plans with generous discounts.
4. Optimized servers for streaming and torrenting.

Cons:

1. Speeds can vary depending on server location.
2. No independent audit of their no-logs policy.
3. Fewer advanced features for tech-savvy users.
4. Desktop app can be slow to connect at times.

Details About Pricing and Plan:

CyberGhost’s monthly plan costs $12.99, but their 2-year plan offers excellent value at $2.19/month (billed $56.94 every two years). They also offer a 45-day money-back guarantee, one of the most generous in the industry.

Unique Features:

CyberGhost is known for its streaming-optimized servers, allowing users to easily access Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and other geo-blocked content. It also offers NoSpy servers, designed for enhanced privacy and located in a data center owned by CyberGhost in Romania.

Who It’s Best For:

CyberGhost is perfect for beginners or users who prioritize streaming and privacy. It’s ideal for those looking for an affordable, user-friendly VPN with plenty of servers.

User Reviews:

Users appreciate CyberGhost’s easy setup and streaming capabilities, particularly for unblocking Netflix and other services. It’s also praised for its affordable long-term plans and reliable performance, though some users mention occasional speed inconsistencies on distant servers. Overall, it’s seen as a solid choice for everyday use.

5. Private Internet Access (PIA)

Overview:

Private Internet Access (PIA) is a top contender for the best VPN of 2024, known for its strong focus on privacy and vast server network. With over 10,000 servers in 84 countries, PIA offers fast speeds, excellent encryption, and advanced privacy features. It uses AES-256 encryption and operates under a strict no-logs policy. Pricing starts at $11.99/month, but PIA is especially appealing due to its budget-friendly long-term plans.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

1. Massive server network (10,000+ servers in 84 countries).
2. Advanced privacy features, including a kill switch and customizable encryption settings.
3. Affordable long-term plans with great value.
4. Supports up to 10 simultaneous device connections.

Cons:

1. Speeds can be inconsistent on distant servers.
2. Interface may feel complex for beginners.
3. Based in the U.S., which is part of the Five Eyes alliance.
4. Streaming access is more limited compared to competitors.

Details about Pricing and Plan:

PIA’s monthly plan costs $11.99, but its 3-year plan offers excellent value at $2.03/month (billed $79 every three years). All plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Unique Features:

PIA stands out for its customizable encryption levels, allowing users to choose between faster speeds or higher security. It also offers P2P support and MACE (a built-in ad and malware blocker), making it a powerful tool for privacy enthusiasts.

Who It’s Best For:

PIA is ideal for privacy-conscious users, torrenters, and those needing multiple device support. Its customization options make it perfect for users who want control over their VPN settings.

User Reviews:

Users love PIA for its affordable pricing and robust privacy features. The large server network is frequently praised, though some users note occasional speed drops on distant servers. Overall, it’s regarded as a reliable and budget-friendly option for protecting online privacy.

Comparison Table

Here’s a table comparing the top VPNs based on key criteria like price, speed, security features, and customer support:

VPN Provider	Price (Monthly/Best Deal)	Speed	Security Features	Customer Support
ExpressVPN	$12.95/month / $8.32/month (12-month plan)	Blazing fast for streaming and gaming	AES-256 encryption, no-logs policy, kill switch, split tunneling	24/7 live chat, excellent response time
NordVPN	$12.99/month / $3.29/month (2-year plan)	Fast and reliable for most activities	AES-256 encryption, Double VPN, no-logs policy, Threat Protection	24/7 live chat, knowledgeable support
Surfshark	$12.95/month / $2.39/month (24-month plan)	Fast, but can slow on distant servers	AES-256 encryption, no-logs policy, CleanWeb (ad blocker), kill switch	24/7 live chat, good support experience
CyberGhost	$12.99/month / $2.19/month (2-year plan)	Good speed for streaming	AES-256 encryption, no-logs policy, streaming-optimized servers	24/7 live chat, responsive support
Private Internet Access (PIA)	$11.99/month / $2.03/month (3-year plan)	Varies depending on server	AES-256 encryption, customizable encryption levels, no-logs policy	24/7 live chat, responsive, but interface can be complex

This comparison helps identify the best VPN for different user needs by focusing on critical factors like pricing, performance, security, and support.

How to Choose the Right VPN for Your Family

When choosing the right VPN, start by considering your personal needs. Are you primarily looking for privacy while browsing, or do you need a VPN for streaming content like Netflix and bypassing geo-restrictions? If you’re a gamer, prioritize a VPN with fast speeds and low latency. For privacy-focused users, ensure the VPN offers strong encryption and a no-logs policy.

Next, take advantage of trial periods and money-back guarantees. Most top VPNs offer these options, allowing you to test their performance risk-free. This is a great way to ensure the VPN meets your specific requirements before committing to a long-term plan.

Conclusion

In summary, choosing the right VPN depends on your specific needs—whether it’s for streaming, gaming, or enhancing privacy. Look for strong security features, fast speeds, and user-friendly interfaces. Don’t forget to take advantage of free trials and money-back guarantees to test the service.

Ready to secure your online privacy or enjoy unrestricted streaming? Click the links below to get started with one of the top VPNs today and protect your digital life!