10 Things to Look for When Choosing the Best VPN 2025

Choosing the right VPN can feel overwhelming with so many options out there. Whether you want to stream, game, or just browse safely, you need to know what to look for. Here’s a rundown of the top ten things to consider when picking the best VPN in 2025, so you can make an informed choice without getting lost in the details.

1. Price

Let's be real, price is a big deal. You want top-notch security, but you also don't want to break the bank. Finding the right balance between cost and features is key when choosing a VPN. It's not always about going for the cheapest option; sometimes, paying a little extra gets you significantly better performance and security.

Consider the long-term cost. Many best VPN software providers offer substantial discounts for longer subscription periods. For example, a 2-year plan price might be way more appealing than paying month-to-month.

Here's a quick rundown of what to keep in mind:

• Subscription Length: Check how the price changes with different subscription lengths (monthly, yearly, bi-yearly).
• Features Included: What are you getting for the price? Are all the features you need included, or are there extra costs?
• Renewal Costs: What will the price be when you renew your subscription? Sometimes, the initial discount disappears, and the price jumps up.

Don't just look at the sticker price. Think about what you're actually getting for your money. A slightly more expensive VPN with better security and faster speeds might be a better value in the long run.

It's worth comparing a few different VPNs to see what fits your budget and needs. Some VPNs, like ExpressVPN, might be pricier but offer a premium experience, while others like Surfshark aim for affordability without sacrificing too much on features.

2. Security & Privacy

Okay, so you're looking for a VPN. Price is important, sure, but let's be real – security and privacy are where it's at. You want to make sure your data isn't just floating around for anyone to grab. It's like locking your front door; you wouldn't leave it wide open, would you?

A good VPN should have strong encryption to keep your data safe from prying eyes. Think of it as scrambling your information so that even if someone intercepts it, they can't read it.

Privacy is also key. You want a VPN that doesn't keep logs of your activity. What you do online is your business, not theirs.

Choosing a VPN with robust security features and a clear privacy policy is super important. It's about taking control of your online footprint and making sure you're not being tracked or monitored without your consent.

Here are a few things to consider:

• Encryption: Look for AES-256 encryption. It's like the gold standard.
• Protocols: OpenVPN and WireGuard are generally considered secure.
• Jurisdiction: Where is the VPN company based? Some countries have stricter data retention laws than others.
• Extra Features: A kill switch is a must. It cuts off your internet connection if the VPN drops, preventing your data from being exposed.

3. Connection Speed

Okay, so you've found a VPN that seems secure and has a ton of servers, but what good is it if it slows your internet to a crawl? Connection speed is a big deal, and it's something you absolutely need to consider when choosing a VPN in 2025. I mean, nobody wants to wait an extra five minutes for a webpage to load, right?

It's not just about how fast your internet is supposed to be. VPNs add a layer of encryption, and that process takes time. The further your data has to travel to the VPN server, the slower things can get. So, let's talk about what to look for.

Some VPNs are just faster than others. In recent tests, NordVPN for speed came out on top, with Surfshark and Private Internet Access also performing well. Here's a quick look at how different VPNs can impact your speed:

Keep in mind that your own internet speed and the type of connection you have will also play a role. If you're already working with a slower connection, a VPN with a high speed loss percentage could be a real problem.

Here's a table showing the percentage difference in download and upload speeds when using a VPN:

As you can see, the impact on upload speed can be significant. Ping is also something to watch, especially if you're a gamer. High ping times mean lag, and nobody wants that.

4. Server Locations

Okay, so server locations are a big deal. Think of it like this: the more places a VPN has servers, the more options you have. It's not just about finding a server near you for better speed, though that's part of it. It's also about accessing content that might be restricted in your area.

For example, if you're traveling and want to watch something from back home, a VPN with servers in your home country can make that happen. Or, if you're interested in seeing what's available on streaming services in other countries, you can connect to a server there. It's all about flexibility.

A wide distribution of servers also helps with load balancing. If one server is overloaded, you can easily switch to another in a different location. This can prevent slowdowns and keep your connection stable.

Here's what to keep in mind:

• Number of Countries: More is generally better. Look for a VPN that has servers in a wide range of countries. Some VPNs boast extensive server networks in over 100 countries.
• Server Density: Check if the VPN has multiple servers in popular locations. This helps avoid overcrowding and keeps speeds up.
• Virtual vs. Physical Servers: Some VPNs use virtual servers, which are configured to appear as if they're in a specific location, even if they're physically located elsewhere. Physical servers are generally more reliable.

Basically, you want a VPN that gives you options and control over your connection. Don't settle for one with a limited number of servers or locations.

5. Device Compatibility

Okay, so you've found a VPN that seems pretty good. It's got a decent price, the security looks solid, and the speed tests are promising. But here's a big one: will it actually work with your stuff? I mean, what's the point of having all that if you can't use it on your phone, your tablet, or your smart TV?

Device compatibility is a must-have.

It's not just about whether it works on Windows or Mac anymore. We're talking about phones (both Android and iOS), tablets, smart TVs (Android TV, Apple TV, Fire TV), and even routers. Some VPNs play nice with everything, while others are a bit more limited.

Think about all the devices you use regularly. Do you want to protect your laptop when you're working from a coffee shop? How about your phone when you're using public Wi-Fi? Or maybe you want to stream content on your smart TV without your ISP knowing what you're watching? Make a list of your must-have devices and make sure the VPN you choose covers them.

Here's a quick rundown of what to consider:

• Operating Systems: Windows, macOS, Linux are the big three for computers. Make sure your VPN supports the OS you use.
• Mobile Devices: iOS and Android are essential. Most VPNs have apps for both, but double-check.
• Smart TVs & Streaming Devices: Android TV, Apple TV, Fire TV are common. Some VPNs have dedicated apps, while others might require a router setup.
• Routers: Setting up a VPN on your router protects all devices connected to your network. It's a good option for devices that don't have native VPN support.

For example, NordVPN is highly recommended for users with multiple devices. It's based in Panama, which is good for privacy, and it uses the NordLynx protocol, which is known for its speed. Plus, it works on a ton of different devices.

6. Customer Support

Okay, so you've picked a VPN, you're ready to go, and BAM! Something goes wrong. That's where customer support comes in. You really want a VPN provider that's got your back when things get tricky. I mean, nobody wants to be stuck with a problem and no way to solve it, right?

Good customer support can make or break your VPN experience.

Think about it: you might need help setting things up, troubleshooting connection issues, or understanding some feature. If the support team is slow, unhelpful, or just plain confusing, it's going to be a frustrating time.

Some things to consider:

• Response Time: How quickly do they get back to you? Nobody wants to wait days for an answer.
• Support Channels: Do they offer live chat, email, phone support, or just a knowledge base? The more options, the better.
• Helpfulness: Are the support agents actually knowledgeable and able to solve your problems? Or do they just give you canned responses?

I remember one time I was trying to set up a VPN on my router, and I was completely lost. The VPN's customer support walked me through the whole process step-by-step, and I finally got it working. Without them, I would have been totally stuck.

It's worth checking out what other users are saying about a VPN's customer support before you commit. Look for reviews and testimonials that mention the support experience. For example, Surfshark and ExpressVPN are often praised for their customer service, so that's something to keep in mind.

Here's a quick look at what customer support options you might find:

7. No-Log Policy

When you're picking a VPN, the no-log policy is super important. Basically, it's the VPN's promise not to keep track of what you do online. You want a VPN that doesn't store your browsing history, IP address, or anything that could be traced back to you. It's all about privacy.

Most VPNs say they have a "zero logs" policy, but you need to dig deeper. Some might not log your web traffic, but they could still keep records of your IP addresses, connection times, and the amount of data you use. That's why it's important to read the fine print and see exactly what they're logging.

Think of it this way: a no-log policy is like a promise of confidentiality. You want a VPN that takes that promise seriously and doesn't keep any unnecessary records of your online activity.

It's also worth checking where the VPN is based. If it's in a country that's part of the Five Eyes, Nine Eyes, or 14 Eyes intelligence-sharing agreements, they might be forced to hand over data to the government, even if they have a no-log policy. So, a VPN based outside of these countries can better protect your privacy.

To be sure, look for VPNs that have had their no-log policies verified by independent third-party audits. These audits give you extra peace of mind that the VPN is actually doing what it says it is. Surfshark, for example, passed a no-logs audit by Deloitte in 2022. These audits provide peace of mind. A verified no-log policy is a must-have for anyone serious about online privacy.

8. User-Friendly Interface

Let's be honest, nobody wants to wrestle with a VPN app that looks like it was designed in the early 2000s. A clean, intuitive interface is super important. You want to be able to connect to a server with minimal fuss. I remember trying one VPN where I spent a solid 15 minutes just trying to find the settings menu – not a great experience.

The best VPNs should make it easy to find what you need. Think about it: you're probably using a VPN to protect yourself, not to add more stress to your life. So, a user-friendly interface is a must-have.

A well-designed interface means you can quickly change servers, adjust settings, and access customer support without wanting to throw your computer out the window.

Here's what I usually look for:

• Clear server selection: Can I easily find and connect to different servers?
• Simple settings: Are the settings easy to understand and adjust?
• Intuitive design: Does the app feel logical and easy to navigate? ExpressVPN
• Consistent experience: Does the app look and function similarly across different devices?

Basically, if your grandma can use it, it's probably a good sign. Usability is key. Some VPNs even offer features like one-click connect, which is a huge plus for less tech-savvy users.

9. Additional Features

Okay, so you've checked the basics: price, security, speed. But what about the extras? These additional features can really make or break your VPN experience. It's like buying a car – sure, it gets you from A to B, but do you want heated seats and a killer sound system?

Here's the deal: VPNs are getting more competitive, and that means they're packing in more features to try and win you over. Some of these are genuinely useful, while others are just fluff. It's up to you to decide what you actually need. Think about your specific use cases. Are you a streamer? A gamer? A journalist working in a high-risk environment? Your needs will vary.

Here are some things to consider:

• Split Tunneling: This lets you choose which apps use the VPN and which don't. Super handy if you only want to protect certain traffic. I use it all the time when I'm downloading stuff but still want to watch Netflix without any slowdown.
• Kill Switch: This is a must-have, in my opinion. If your VPN connection drops, the kill switch automatically cuts off your internet connection to prevent your real IP address from being exposed. It's like a safety net for your privacy.
• Dedicated IP: Most VPNs use shared IP addresses, which means you're sharing an IP with hundreds of other users. A dedicated IP is unique to you, which can help you avoid getting flagged as suspicious by websites and services. It can also be useful for accessing things like online banking.
• Obfuscated Servers: These servers hide the fact that you're using a VPN, which can be useful in countries with strict internet censorship. They basically make your VPN traffic look like regular internet traffic.
• Smart DNS: This is a feature that lets you bypass geo-restrictions on streaming services. It's not as secure as a VPN, but it's faster and easier to use. I use it when I want to watch shows that aren't available in my region.

Don't just blindly go for the VPN with the most features. Think about what you actually need and what you'll actually use. A VPN with a few well-implemented features is often better than one with a ton of features that are poorly executed. Also, remember to check top 10 VPNs to see what features they offer.

Ultimately, the best VPN for you is the one that meets your specific needs and budget. Don't be afraid to try out a few different VPNs before settling on one. Most VPNs offer a money-back guarantee, so you can test them out risk-free.

10. Money-Back Guarantee

Okay, so you're thinking about getting a VPN, but you're not 100% sure it's going to work for you. That's where a money-back guarantee comes in super handy. It's like a safety net. Most reputable VPN providers offer some kind of refund policy, usually around 30 days.

Think of it this way: you sign up, try out the VPN, and if it doesn't meet your needs – maybe the speeds aren't great, or it doesn't work with your favorite streaming service – you can get your money back. It's a pretty sweet deal. Just make sure you read the fine print, because there are always conditions.

It's a good idea to test the VPN thoroughly during the guarantee period. Try different servers, check the speeds, and make sure it works with all the devices you plan to use it on. That way, you'll know for sure if it's the right VPN for you before the refund window closes.

Here's what to keep in mind:

• Duration: How long do you have to request a refund? 30 days is common, but some offer longer or shorter periods.
• Conditions: Are there any restrictions? Some VPNs might not offer a refund if you've used a certain amount of bandwidth.
• Process: How easy is it to get your money back? Is it a simple online form, or do you have to jump through hoops?