Looking for the best VPN for the USA in 2025? Our in-depth guide analyzes and compares the top 5 VPN services available to American users. We’ve evaluated all essential aspects including speed, security features, streaming capabilities, server networks, and overall value to help you choose the perfect VPN for your specific needs.
Complete Comparison of the 5 Best VPNs for the United States in 2025
Get NordVPN
at 73% OFF + 3 months FREE
-
5,600+ servers in 60 countries (1,970+ in the US alone)
EXCLUSIVE OFFER:
Get ExpressVPN at 61% OFF + 4 months FREE
Get Proton VPN
at 56% OFF + Proton Mail Bundled
EXCLUSIVE DEAL:
Get Surfshark at 87% OFF + 3 months FREE
Our Testing Methodology
This review is based on extensive testing conducted over four weeks by our cybersecurity team. Our evaluation process included:
- Speed Testing: Multiple daily tests across various server locations using several testing tools (Ookla Speedtest, Netflix FAST, SpeedOf.me)
- Security Verification:
- DNS, WebRTC, and IP leak testing under different network conditions
- Kill switch trigger testing in various scenarios
- Encryption verification
- Streaming Evaluation: Daily access attempts to major streaming platforms from multiple global locations
- Real-World Usage: Everyday activities including browsing, streaming, gaming, and working while connected
- Feature Testing: Systematic verification of each feature advertised by Proton VPN
All tests were conducted using subscriptions purchased anonymously through standard channels to ensure unbiased evaluation.
Quick Comparison Table
VPN | Best For | US Servers | Simultaneous Connections | Monthly Price | Annual Plan | Rating |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
NordVPN | Best Overall | 1970+ servers | 6 | $11.99 | $4.99/month | 9.6/10 |
ExpressVPN | Best Performance | 24+ locations | 8 | $12.95 | $8.32/month | 9.3/10 |
ProtonVPN | Best for Privacy | 60+ servers | 10 (Plus plan) | Free – $9.99 | $5.99/month | 9.3/10 |
Surfshark | Best Value | 600+ servers | Unlimited | $12.95 | $2.49/month | 9.1/10 |
CyberGhost | Most Beginner-Friendly | 1300+ servers | 7 | $12.99 | $2.19/month | 9.1/10 |
Speed and Privacy
Speed and Performance
Speed Tests on US Servers (% of original speed maintained):
- ExpressVPN: 90-98% – Consistently the fastest in all tests
- NordVPN: 85-95% – Excellent performance with NordLynx protocol
- Surfshark: 80-90% – Very good speeds, especially with WireGuard
- CyberGhost: 70-85% – Reliable speed for everyday use
- ProtonVPN (Plus): 70-80% – Solid performance on premium servers
Privacy and Security
Logging Policies and Jurisdiction:
- ExpressVPN: No-logs, British Virgin Islands (audited by PwC and KPMG)
- NordVPN: No-logs, Panama (audited by PwC)
- Surfshark: No-logs, Netherlands (audited by Cure53)
- ProtonVPN: No-logs, Switzerland (open-source)
- CyberGhost: No-logs, Romania
Streaming, Compatibility and Customer Support
Unblocking Effectiveness (based on US tests):
VPN | Netflix | Amazon Prime | Disney+ | Hulu | HBO Max | BBC iPlayer | DAZN |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ExpressVPN | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
NordVPN | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
Surfshark | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
CyberGhost | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
ProtonVPN | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
Device Compatibility and Ease of Use
All VPNs in our comparison offer support for the standard platforms including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux. When it comes to Smart TVs and Streaming Devices, ExpressVPN and NordVPN lead with the best support, followed by Surfshark and CyberGhost with good support, while ProtonVPN provides only basic support for these devices.
Regarding ease of use, CyberGhost and Surfshark stand out with perfect five-star ratings. CyberGhost features an intuitive interface with use-case settings, while Surfshark offers a minimalist and straightforward design. ExpressVPN and NordVPN follow closely with four-and-a-half stars each; ExpressVPN provides a clean and simplified interface, and NordVPN features an interactive map interface that users find easy to navigate. ProtonVPN scores three-and-a-half stars with an informative interface that may be less intuitive for beginners.
Customer Support
In terms of support quality, ExpressVPN and NordVPN lead with perfect five-star ratings. ExpressVPN offers 24/7 live chat with quick response times and efficient resolution of issues, while NordVPN provides 24/7 live chat supported by an extensive knowledge base. Surfshark and CyberGhost both earn four-and-a-half stars; Surfshark features 24/7 live chat with a good knowledge base, and CyberGhost offers 24/7 live chat with detailed responses. ProtonVPN ranks lowest with three-and-a-half stars, primarily offering email support with longer response times compared to competitors.
Recommendations By User Profile
User Type | Recommendation | Reason |
---|---|---|
General Users |
NordVPN | Best balance between performance, security, and ease of use with comprehensive privacy. |
Speed-Demanding Users |
ExpressVPN | Highest and most consistent speeds, ideal for 4K streaming, gaming, and video conferencing. |
Families or Multiple Devices |
Surfshark | Unlimited connections for the whole family with excellent value. |
Budget-Conscious Users |
CyberGhost | Great value on long-term plans with full feature access. |
Streaming Enthusiasts |
ExpressVPN or NordVPN | Reliable unblocking for all major streaming platforms. |
Maximum Privacy Seekers |
ProtonVPN | Open-source apps, Swiss jurisdiction, and strong focus on privacy. |
Why You Need a VPN in the United States
- Public Wi-Fi Protection: Security on airport, cafe, and hotel Wi-Fi hotspots
- Privacy from ISPs: Prevent Internet Service Providers from tracking your online activities
- Bypassing Geographic Restrictions: Access international streaming content and websites
- Avoiding Throttling: Prevent your ISP from slowing down your speed on streaming services
- Protection from Tracking: Reduce ad tracking and data collection
- Online Gaming Security: Protection against DDoS attacks in competitive gaming
- Access to Better Prices: Find better deals on travel bookings and online shopping
Conclusion
The US VPN market in 2025 offers high-quality options for all types of users. ExpressVPN maintains its position as the performance leader, while NordVPN offers the best feature set for most users. Surfshark stands out for incredible value and unlimited connections.
If you’re looking for an especially user-friendly experience, CyberGhost is the ideal choice. And for users most concerned with privacy, ProtonVPN remains the benchmark.
When choosing your VPN, consider your specific priorities: speed, privacy, streaming compatibility, price, or ease of use. All the VPNs analyzed offer money-back guarantees, allowing you to test before committing to a long-term plan.
Frequently Asked Questions About VPNs in the USA
This section addresses common questions about using Virtual Private Networks in the United States. Whether you’re new to VPNs or seeking to deepen your understanding, these answers provide clarity on legal considerations, usage benefits, and technical aspects specific to American users. From privacy protections to streaming capabilities, find straightforward explanations that will help you make informed decisions about incorporating a VPN into your digital life.
Yes, using VPNs is completely legal in the US. However, illegal activities remain illegal even with a VPN.
Free VPNs typically have significant limitations in speed, data, and security. ProtonVPN offers the best free option, but for regular use, we recommend a premium service.
ExpressVPN and NordVPN consistently unblock all major streaming platforms, including Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, and Hulu.
Yes, all VPNs in this list offer apps for major operating systems. Surfshark stands out by allowing unlimited simultaneous connections.
Premium VPNs like ExpressVPN and NordVPN maintain 85-98% of original speed, a minimal impact for most users.
NordVPN has the largest number of servers (1970+) in the United States.
A quality VPN encrypts your data, protecting you from many types of cyber attacks, especially on public Wi-Fi. However, it’s not a complete security solution and should be used alongside antivirus software and good security practices.
Absolutely. VPNs provide essential privacy protection from ISP tracking, data collection by websites, and security on public networks. They also help access geo-restricted content and can even save money on online purchases.
ExpressVPN consistently performs best with US-specific streaming services, with NordVPN as a close second.
Yes, all the VPNs in our comparison can unblock US Netflix from overseas, with ExpressVPN and NordVPN providing the most reliable access.