Best VPN services 2026: Expert tested and recommended

ExpressVPN is my top choice for the fastest VPN service around and one of the best VPNs you can sign up for. 

Why we like it: Customers say it delivers a speedy and consistent connection, and I agree. NordVPN and ExpressVPN are well-matched in terms of speed, but ExpressVPN often outperforms when it comes to servers at a distance.

It's one of the most popular, trusted VPN providers, offering a wide range of platforms. The service also has an expansive network with servers in 105 countries and recently to include servers in every U.S. state. I also find it works well for streaming purposes. 

Compatible platforms include Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Fire OS, and tvOS. The service also works with Linux, which was  with a new user interface. 

In total, 10 to 14 simultaneous connections can be linked under a single account. Although this recently increased from eight, I would still like to see it become unlimited one day. 

The company doesn't log your browsing history, IP address, or traffic destination and operates a no-logs policy. 

In recent ExpressVPN news, the company debuted three new offerings to its security solutions portfolio. ExpressKeys and ExpressMailGuard, available now, protect your credentials and email communication. ExpressAI, a new AI tool, will provide a confidential computing element. 

Who it's for: Individuals who see speed as king. This VPN has consistently ranked first in my speed tests over the past few years, on both standard broadband and fiber.

ExpressVPN is also the developer of Aircove, a router product line with ExpressVPN built in. This saves you the legwork if you want blanket coverage for all your home devices. Alternatively, you can manually set up ExpressVPN to work with gaming consoles and TVs that do not natively support VPN apps, but you may need to install the VPN directly on your router.

ExpressVPN recently switched to a  system -- a move I applaud, as it gives VPN customers the range of choice they now expect -- and this makes it more affordable. 

The best deal is the basic plan, which is $2.44 per month on a two-year contract, with four months of free access thrown in. 

The provider also offers Advanced and Pro subscriptions, available for $3.14 per month and $5.24 per month, respectively, on a two-year term. These more expensive tiers include ExpressVPN's ad-blocker, 12 to 14 simultaneous connections rather than 10, ExpressKeys, and ExpressMailGuard. 

There is a 30-day money-back guarantee. 

While customer service is friendly and polite, they persist in customer retention, so you'll need to set aside some time if you wish to cancel after the 30-day period. 

Who should look elsewhere: VPN customers who want the most budget-friendly option should consider Surfshark or another of my recommended, cheaper VPNs. 

While ExpressVPN recently launched a free service, EventVPN, I can't recommend it considering how ad-driven it is.

ExpressVPN features: Simultaneous connections: 10 - 14 | Kill switch: Yes | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Linux, Fire TV, Android TV, tvOS, and routers | Countries: 105 | Logging: No browsing logs, some connection logs | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days on Android and iOS | Trustpilot rating: 4.0 | Google Play rating: 4.7 | App Store rating: 4.7