The Best VPNs for PC

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the many VPNs for PCs that are now available, you’re not alone. At times, it can be hard to separate the marketing hype from reality. For example, many VPNs claim to provide the fastest speeds, but it’s not fair or entirely realistic for you to try every single one of them out to find out. This is where our many hours of hands-on testing comes in useful.

To help you narrow all these options down, I’ve tested a multitude of Windows VPNs, looking at everything from their server speeds and unblocking ability to their leak protection and no-logs policies. The best VPNs for Windows PC excel in all of these areas and even offer some intriguing extras that Windows users might find useful, including split tunneling and even antivirus protection.

TL;DR – These Are the Best VPNs for PC:

Before I take you through the best VPNs for PC, here’s a quick explanation of what a VPN is, what it does, and how it works. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) encrypts your internet traffic and masks your IP address. Your online activities are hidden as a result – even from your ISP (Internet Service Provider). As such, you’ll be able to browse privately and even navigate geographic restrictions on content.

Best VPN for Windows PC

Best VPN With a Free Tier

Best VPN for Gaming

Best VPN for Extra Features

Best VPN for Power Users

Best Free Trial VPN

Best VPN For Unlimited Devices

Why should I use a VPN on my PC?

A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, rendering it unreadable to third parties and preventing cyber threats such as man-in-the-middle attacks. The fact that it hides your IP address means even your ISP can’t see what you’re doing online. Aside from the security and privacy-related benefits, a VPN allows you to spoof your location and bypass geo-blocking. If your ISP is throttling your connection, a VPN may even improve your speeds.

Will a VPN slow my connection?

Unless your ISP is throttling your bandwidth, a VPN is likely to slow your connection to a degree. There are several influencing factors including the protocol you use, the location of the server to which you connect (and its proximity to your actual location), and the current server load. The encryption process takes its toll but, as our speed tests indicate, some VPNs compensate for this better than others. With the fastest VPNs, you may not notice a difference.

Can I use a free VPN for PC?

There are plenty of free VPNs for PC but they have too many limitations. You’ll likely only have access to a couple of server locations and there will likely be bandwidth and data caps. Some free VPNs don’t properly encrypt your data and make money by logging and selling it. Overall, free VPNs tend to offer inferior security and performance, making them particularly unsuitable for streaming and PC gaming. If you do opt for a free VPN for PC, I recommend Proton VPN, which offers unlimited data and takes a strong stance on privacy.

Mark Gill is a freelance VPN writer for IGN, bringing over five years of dedicated experience from Comparitech, where he delves deep into the intricacies of VPNs. A journalism graduate with a passion for safeguarding digital freedoms, Mark has strengthened his expertise with a Google Cybersecurity Certificate and is now studying for the CompTIA Security+ certification. When he’s not testing VPNs, Mark is an avid gamer with a soft spot for the Sega Mega Drive, reliving the classics for a dose of nostalgia. He also enjoys mountain biking and watching football (go Lions!), and working on his dark comedy screenplays. You won’t find Mark on social media because he already wastes far too much time managing his fantasy football teams with the hope of this year being “the year.” Hint: it never is.