Best VPN for Privacy: Most Secure VPNs 2025 Reviewed

Table of Contents

11 Most Secure VPNs That Will Keep Your Data Private in 2025

Need the best VPN for privacy that won’t slow you down? Most VPNs reduce internet speed by 25%, but our top recommendations for the best VPN for privacy maintain over 70% of your original connection speed. To summarize, finding the best VPN for privacy is essential for users who prioritize their online security.

Our 2024 testing revealed impressive results. NordVPN showed just an 11% speed reduction and provides advanced privacy features like double VPN encryption. ExpressVPN earned an outstanding 8.8/10 rating because of its innovative Lightway protocol and post-quantum protection.

People are increasingly seeking the best VPN for privacy due to rising concerns about data leaks and surveillance. Our 2024 testing revealed impressive results. The best VPN for privacy like NordVPN showed just an 11% speed reduction and provides advanced privacy features like double VPN encryption. ExpressVPN earned an outstanding 8.8/10 rating because of its innovative Lightway protocol and post-quantum protection.

You might want casual browsing protection or critical privacy features. We’ve tested and compared the best VPN for privacy services extensively, including the best VPN for privacy overall. The best VPN for privacy is also reflected in NordVPN’s massive network which includes 7,100+ servers, while Surfshark supports unlimited devices. Let us help you find the perfect balance of speed, security, and privacy with the best VPN for privacy that matches your needs in 2025.

You might want casual browsing protection or critical privacy features. We’ve tested and compared the best VPN for privacy services extensively, including the best VPN for privacy overall. NordVPN’s massive network includes 7,100+ servers, while Surfshark supports unlimited devices. Let us help you find the perfect balance of speed, security, and privacy with the best VPN for privacy that matches your needs in 2025.

Additionally, the best VPN for privacy should include features such as a no-logs policy, strong encryption protocols, and a wide server network to effectively safeguard your data. Choosing the best VPN for privacy ensures that your online activities remain confidential.

When searching for the best VPN for privacy, it’s crucial to consider not only security features but also user experience and connection speeds. The best VPN for privacy will offer a user-friendly interface while maintaining top-tier encryption. Ensuring your choice is the best VPN for privacy is essential in today’s digital landscape.

NordVPN: The Most Secure VPN Overall

NordVPN excels as the best VPN for privacy with its strong security infrastructure and detailed privacy features, making it one of the best VPNs for privacy. The service uses AES-256-GCM encryption with a 4096-bit DH key. This creates a foundation of military-grade protection for users seeking the best VPN for privacy. As a result, it’s frequently rated among the best VPNs for privacy on the market.

Additionally, the best VPN for privacy should include features such as a no-logs policy, strong encryption protocols, and a wide server network to effectively safeguard your data.

NordVPN excels with its strong security infrastructure and detailed privacy features, making it one of the best VPNs for privacy. The service uses AES-256-GCM encryption with a 4096-bit DH key. This creates a foundation of military-grade protection for users seeking the best VPN for privacy.

NordVPN Privacy Features and Encryption are vital when considering the best VPN for privacy. Each session gets unique encryption keys thanks to Perfect Forward Secrecy. The service has multiple secure protocols, including OpenVPN and its NordLynx protocol, which is based on WireGuard technology. Your DNS requests go through secure servers to prevent leaks and keep your privacy intact, reinforcing its status as the best VPN for privacy.

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NordVPN proves its transparency through regular third-party audits. Deloitte completed its fifth independent audit in late 2024 to verify the company’s no-logs policy, which is essential when choosing the best VPN for privacy. The service went through detailed infrastructure checks by Cure53 in February 2023, ensuring it remains one of the best VPNs for privacy on the market.

Threat Protection Pro goes beyond standard VPN protection. It blocks malicious websites, checks downloads for malware, and stops intrusive trackers automatically, providing yet another reason it’s the best VPN for privacy. AV-Comparatives recognized the system’s anti-phishing capabilities, which showed 80-90% success rates in detecting new fake shops.

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NordVPN Privacy Features and Encryption

Double VPN servers for multi-hop connections provide an added layer of anonymity, making it the best VPN for privacy. Obfuscated servers help bypass network restrictions, further solidifying its position as the best VPN for privacy. Dedicated IP options ensure consistent secure access, and P2P-optimized servers offer better privacy protection.

Each session gets unique encryption keys thanks to Perfect Forward Secrecy. The service has multiple secure protocols, including OpenVPN and their own NordLynx, which is based on WireGuard technology. Your DNS requests go through secure servers to prevent leaks and keep your privacy intact.

Independent Security Audits

Physical security remains tight with servers running in a diskless environment, a key feature for the best VPN for privacy. This setup wipes all data when servers shut down, adding another layer of protection against security breaches.

RAM-only servers power NordVPN’s entire network, so no data stays permanently. The infrastructure has specialized security features that enhance its reputation as the best VPN for privacy:

NordVPN also excels with its TrustedServer technology, making it one of the best VPNs for privacy. This technology ensures that every server resets its data with every reboot, further enhancing user security.

NordVPN proves its transparency through regular third-party audits. Deloitte completed its fifth independent audit in late 2024 to verify the company’s no-logs policy. The service went through detailed infrastructure checks by Cure53 in February 2023, and they fixed all critical issues right away.

Threat Protection Capabilities

Threat Protection Pro goes beyond standard VPN protection. It blocks malicious websites, checks downloads for malware, and stops intrusive trackers automatically. AV-Comparatives recognized the system’s anti-phishing capabilities, which showed 80-90% success rates in detecting new fake shops.

Server Network Security

RAM-only servers power NordVPN’s entire network, so no data stays permanently. The infrastructure has specialized security features:

Double VPN servers for multi-hop connections
Obfuscated servers to bypass network restrictions
Dedicated IP options for consistent secure access
P2P-optimized servers with better privacy protection

Physical security stays tight with servers running in a diskless environment, a key feature for the best VPN for privacy. This setup wipes all data when servers shut down, adding another layer of protection against security breaches.

ExpressVPN: Best for Data Protection

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ExpressVPN improves data protection with its groundbreaking TrustedServer technology, which sets new standards for VPN security. Their steadfast dedication to privacy defines their infrastructure.

TrustedServer Technology

ExpressVPN’s TrustedServer technology brings a fundamental change to VPN server operations. The system loads the entire software stack from a cryptographically signed read-only image each time a server starts. Every server runs similar, up-to-date software, which eliminates vulnerabilities from misconfigurations. PwC and Cure53 have independently audited the technology to confirm its security claims.

ExpressVPN Security Features

Multiple layers of protection safeguard user data. ExpressVPN uses AES-256 encryption that security experts worldwide trust. Their Network Lock kill switch blocks all traffic if the VPN connection drops. The proprietary Lightway protocol makes connections more reliable without compromising security.

Essential security features include:

Private DNS on every server for safer, faster connections
No activity or connection logs policy, verified by independent audits
Threat Manager actively blocks trackers and malicious domains

RAM-Only Servers

ExpressVPN’s RAM-only server infrastructure gives complete data protection. RAM needs power to store data, so all information disappears when servers reboot. This setup prevents data persistence and potential intrusions. The system enforces the no-logs policy through technology rather than just promises.

These servers work without traditional hard drives, which removes risks tied to data storage. This fresh approach means no user information or potential threats can stay on a server after power cycles. The operating system reloads from a verified image with each restart and reinstalls the complete software stack.

Surfshark: Top Budget Security Choice

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Surfshark offers top-tier security features that protect your privacy without breaking the bank. Users can create custom double VPN connections from any two server locations with the service’s Dynamic MultiHop technology.

MultiHop and Camouflage Mode

Dynamic MultiHop sends your traffic through two VPN servers and encrypts your data twice to boost security. You can pick both entry and exit servers yourself to get the best speeds while keeping that extra layer of protection. The service comes with Camouflage Mode (also known as obfuscation) that makes VPN traffic look like regular internet activity. This feature works great in countries with heavy internet restrictions since it stops anyone from spotting your VPN usage.

CleanWeb Security Suite

Surfshark’s CleanWeb 2.0 gives you detailed threat protection through multiple security layers. The system includes:

Alerts about dangerous websites with malware detection
Smart ad blocking that handles video ads too
Easy management of cookie pop-ups to protect privacy
Automatic site screening to guard against phishing

Kill Switch Implementation

The Kill Switch cuts off your internet if the VPN drops to keep your data safe. While it works slightly differently on each platform, Surfshark keeps you protected on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS devices. The Windows version got better recently with a “Strict” Kill Switch that stays active even when you disconnect manually.

Surfshark runs all servers on RAM-only hardware, which means no data sticks around. The IP Rotator switches your IP address regularly without breaking your connection to add more privacy protection. These security features work together to give you enterprise-level protection at prices that make sense for regular users.

ProtonVPN: Swiss Privacy Champion

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CERN scientists founded ProtonVPN, which operates under Switzerland’s resilient privacy laws. The service provides exceptional data protection outside US and EU jurisdiction. Its unique blend of technical breakthroughs and legal protection makes it stand out.

Secure Core Architecture

ProtonVPN’s distinctive Secure Core technology routes traffic through multiple servers before leaving their network. This multi-hop system protects users against network-based attacks. Even if someone compromises an exit server, the user’s true IP address stays hidden. The service runs Secure Core servers in privacy-friendly countries—Switzerland, Iceland, and Sweden. These servers operate on dedicated networks with IP addresses owned by their Local Internet Registry.

Open Source Applications

ProtonVPN shows its transparency by making all applications open source. Security audits covered every platform—Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. This approach lets security researchers worldwide examine encryption implementations and data handling procedures. Swiss law uniquely protects the service’s no-logs policy by preventing authorities from forcing logging.

Physical Security Measures

ProtonVPN’s physical infrastructure demonstrates its steadfast dedication to security. Their critical servers are located in:

Swiss data center outside Zurich with biometric access requirements
Former military base in Iceland
Underground facility in Sweden

The servers use full-disk encryption to secure certificates and configurations, even if someone gets physical access. The service uses bare metal servers exclusively and maintains complete control down to the operating system level. This detailed approach to physical security, combined with Switzerland’s strong privacy laws, are the foundations of user data protection.

CyberGhost: Best for Anonymous Browsing

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CyberGhost, based in Romania, stands out with its own infrastructure and security features you can customize. The company puts user privacy first through several specialized systems.

NoSpy Servers

CyberGhost runs its NoSpy servers from its own data center in Romania. These servers use top-tier hardware that’s built to boost privacy and performance. The company’s facility has strict security measures, and only CyberGhost’s team can access it. Their NoSpy setup uses military-grade 256-bit AES encryption, and the RAM-only servers wipe all data clean when they shut down.

Automated HTTPS Redirection

The service switches to HTTPS connections whenever possible. This security feature will give a safe encrypted channel to protect sensitive data like passwords and payment information. The system uses HTTP Strict Transport Security (HSTS) to block any unencrypted connections right away. The service’s secure DNS system also stops data leaks while you browse.

Privacy Guard Features

CyberGhost’s Privacy Guard lets you fine-tune 76 different Windows privacy settings. Users can:

Turn off Microsoft’s data collection features
Set app permissions for Microsoft Store
Control Windows updates and syncs
See privacy setting changes immediately

The Block Content feature works directly on VPN servers to filter out harmful domains and trackers. Deloitte’s independent audit in 2024 confirmed that CyberGhost sticks to its no-logs policy. Romanian laws don’t require companies to keep user data, which makes the country’s strong privacy protection even better for security.

Private Internet Access: Proven No-Logs Policy

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Private Internet Access stands out with its court-proven privacy commitments and independently verified security measures. The service maintains a steadfast commitment to protecting user privacy.

Court-Verified Privacy Claims

Private Internet Access is one of the few VPN providers that proved its no-logs policy in court multiple times. We tested this at the time the FBI asked for user information, and PIA showed it had no data to share. The same happened in 2018 when the US government made similar requests. Deloitte’s January 2024 audit backed these court validations and confirmed that PIA’s server configurations protect user identity and are secure against exploitation.

MACE Ad Blocker

The service’s MACE feature works at the DNS level, unlike traditional browser-based blockers. This system blocks known advertising and malware domains before they reach your device. The technology sends back non-routable IP addresses for malicious domains, which:

Blocks all malicious domains completely
Gives better privacy through DNS-level filtering
Saves battery life on mobile devices

Encryption Options

PIA lets users customize their encryption settings to control their security levels. The service uses OpenVPN with multiple setup options. Users can pick between AES-128-GCM and AES-256-GCM encryption, and both versions use GCM authentication to boost security. The handshake process uses RSA-4096 encryption and makes sure key exchanges are secure through TLS v1.3.

RAM-only servers are the foundation of the service, and regular reboots prevent data from staying around. This infrastructure design and strict no-logs policy make sure no identifiable information exists beyond basic account details. The system doesn’t even keep error logs and debugging information, which shows its steadfast dedication to user privacy.

IVPN: Maximum Privacy Focus

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IVPN operates from Gibraltar and takes privacy protection to new heights with its zero-knowledge infrastructure and open operations. The service follows strict ethical guidelines that shape its privacy-focused approach.

Anonymous Account System

IVPN uses a unique account token system that doesn’t need personal information. We created a system that gives users random account numbers instead of traditional username-password combinations. Users don’t need to provide contact information or email addresses to create accounts. This approach makes it impossible to link user identities with their VPN usage patterns.

Multi-hop Connections

The service’s multi-hop setup stands out because of its flexible design. Users can pick any two servers for their multi-hop path, while other services limit users to preset routes. This technology gives you:

Better anonymity through dual-server routing
Direct connections between servers for best speed
Independent DNS servers at exit locations

Attackers would need to access data centers in different jurisdictions at the same time to find connection sources. Yes, it is true that IVPN’s full mesh network creates direct connections between servers, which gives the best speed while keeping security intact.

Privacy Policy Analysis

IVPN’s dedication to privacy goes beyond normal practices with its complete policy framework. The service runs with:

Zero traffic logs
No connection timestamps
No DNS request records
No bandwidth monitoring
No IP address storage

Cure53 regularly performs independent audits to verify these privacy claims. IVPN is completely open about its ownership structure and team members. The service releases a cryptographically signed warrant canary that shows its dedication to user privacy. Gibraltar’s jurisdiction means IVPN only responds to local legal requests, though its zero-knowledge setup ensures minimal data is available even then.

Mullvad: Most Anonymous Payment Options

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Mullvad sets a new standard for VPN privacy with its innovative approach to user anonymity. The service has kept its price at 5 euros monthly since 2009. Users don’t need traditional accounts, which puts privacy first.

Cash Payment Support

You can pay for Mullvad with cash in multiple currencies, and they give a 10% discount for cryptocurrency payments. The service accepts these currencies:

EUR, USD, GBP
SEK, NOK, CHF
CAD, AUD, NZD

The cash payment process is straightforward. You just need to mail your currency with a payment token to Sweden. This method gives you complete privacy since no personal information connects to your payment.

No Email Required

Mullvad works with a unique account number system instead of asking for personal details. They generate random account numbers and shred payment envelopes right after processing. Even if authorities ask for information, the service keeps minimal user data.

Security Infrastructure

Radically Open Security (RoS) did a complete security review of Mullvad’s framework in June 2023. The audit showed they don’t log any user activity, and their servers run only from RAM. Cure53’s later audit praised the system’s security setup.

The service uses advanced security through:

RAM-Only Infrastructure: All server data gets wiped when power is lost
Custom Ubuntu Setup: A trimmed Linux kernel (6.3.2) for better security
Client Certificates: PKI infrastructure through Hashicorp Vault

The service is open about using third-party payment processors and suggests cash or cryptocurrency for the best privacy. Their infrastructure runs without regular hard drives, which stops data from staying around and prevents security issues.

AirVPN: Best Technical Security Features

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AirVPN excels in technical security through its reliable encryption standards and advanced protection systems. Multiple security features work together to protect user privacy.

SSL/SSH Tunnel Implementation

AirVPN lets users mask OpenVPN traffic with SSL and SSH tunneling options. This feature helps users in regions where VPN restrictions exist. The SSL setup uses stunnel, an open-source SSL Tunneling Proxy under GNU GPL 2 license. This extra encryption layer stops Deep Packet Inspection from detecting OpenVPN connections.

Users can configure tunnels in several ways:

SSH connections through PuTTY on Windows platforms
Direct SSH implementation on Linux and macOS systems
Automated configuration through Eddie client

Perfect Forward Secrecy

AirVPN’s Perfect Forward Secrecy works through ChaCha20-Poly1305 encryption and ECDH with Curve25519. The system exchanges keys every 60 minutes to ensure compromised keys can’t decrypt past sessions. Each VPN server ended up using unique 4096-bit DH keys to strengthen security.

DNS Leak Prevention

The service has complete DNS protection with multiple safeguards. Network Lock in the Eddie client blocks all data leaks, including WebRTC vulnerabilities. Each VPN server runs its own DNS infrastructure with special features:

Direct communication with root servers
Neutral request handling without injection
Support for DoH and DoT protocols on ports 443 and 853

Users can set custom answers or exceptions at account and device levels. The service applies strict firewall rules so all DNS queries go through secure servers. The system supports both iptables and nftables Netfilter components to give users flexible leak prevention options.

TorGuard: Advanced Security Options

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TorGuard delivers enterprise-level security through advanced stealth technology and customizable protection features. The service pairs strong encryption with flexible configuration options to ensure complete privacy protection.

Stealth VPN Protocol

TorGuard’s Stealth VPN technology makes VPN traffic look like regular HTTPS connections by removing OpenVPN headers. The system wraps and hides header information in SSL/TLS encryption and routes traffic through standard HTTPs ports. This advanced masking helps users bypass Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) firewalls and network restrictions.

Business-Grade Security

The service builds multiple security layers through its core features:

AES-256 encryption with support for OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard protocols
Dual kill switch system for complete or application-specific protection
Multi-factor authentication through Google Authenticator integration

TorGuard lets users configure TLS versions under OpenVPN protocol options. The system uses TLS 1.3 by default to ensure current security standards while keeping flexibility for specific requirements.

Dedicated IP Options

TorGuard’s dedicated IP service provides exclusive addresses that prevent account lockouts and boost online security. These IPs come in several specialized variants:

Streaming-optimized IPs for unrestricted content access
Residential IPs for better privacy and reduced detection
Sport-specific IPs for uninterrupted access to events

The dedicated IP infrastructure runs on isolated secure networks and gives users complete IP management capabilities. Each IP belongs to a single user, which removes risks from shared addresses. Users face fewer verification steps during online payments and get secure access to critical infrastructure.

Hide.me: Customizable Security Settings

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Hide.me gives users complete control over its security setup with detailed privacy settings and connection priorities. The service combines advanced protocols with new features to provide complete protection.

Custom Protocol Selection

Hide.me supports multiple VPN protocols with AES-256 encryption as the foundation. We tested these protocols:

WireGuard with state-of-the-art cryptography
IKEv2 with AES-128 and AES-256 options
OpenVPN with strong authentication
SoftEther to boost firewall penetration
SSTP for Microsoft platform optimization

The service applies Perfect Forward Secrecy to all protocols, which deepens connection security. Each protocol uses specific cryptographic elements like the Noise protocol framework and Curve25519 for WireGuard implementations.

IPv6 Support

Hide.me excels with its complete IPv6 implementation and native support on all servers. The dual-stack setup provides smooth connectivity for both IPv4 and IPv6 protocols and prevents address leaks. Users can choose from four connection options:

IPv4-only connections
IPv6-only configurations
IPv4 preferred with IPv6 fallback
IPv6 preferred with IPv4 fallback

This flexibility delivers optimal performance while keeping security intact. The infrastructure stops IPv6 leaks through dedicated protection systems to prevent accidental exposure.

Dynamic Port Forwarding

Premium subscribers can access Dynamic Port Forwarding through UPnP technology. This system maps network ports automatically when applications need them, which is more secure than static options. Users can start port forwarding through:

In-app activation for easy setup
Manual connection with @pf suffix
Application-specific port mapping

The dynamic system opens ports only when needed and closes them after use. Hide.me labels UPnP as a ‘use at your own risk’ feature and provides detailed safety guides for secure setup. The system keeps strict security protocols while offering flexibility for specific applications and services.

Comparison Table

VPN Name	Key Security Features	Encryption Standard	Server Infrastructure	Notable Privacy Features	Audit Status
NordVPN	Double VPN, Threat Protection Pro	AES-256-GCM with 4096-bit DH key	RAM-only servers, 7,100+ servers	Perfect Forward Secrecy, No-logs policy	Deloitte (2024), Cure53 (2023)
ExpressVPN	TrustedServer technology, Network Lock kill switch	AES-256	RAM-only servers, Verified image loading	Private DNS on every server, No-logs policy	PwC, Cure53
Surfshark	Dynamic MultiHop, Camouflage Mode	Not mentioned	RAM-only servers	IP Rotator, CleanWeb 2.0	Not mentioned
ProtonVPN	Secure Core technology, Open-source apps	Not mentioned	Bare metal servers, Physical security facilities	Swiss privacy protection, No-logs policy	Independent audits for all platforms
CyberGhost	NoSpy servers, HTTPS Redirection	AES-256	Self-managed data center, RAM-only	Privacy Guard (76 settings), Block Content	Deloitte (2024)
Private Internet Access	MACE ad blocker	AES-128/256-GCM, RSA-4096	RAM-only servers	Court-proven no-logs policy	Deloitte (2024)
IVPN	Multi-hop connections	Not mentioned	Zero-knowledge infrastructure	Anonymous account system, No email required	Cure53
Mullvad	No email required, Cash payments	Not mentioned	RAM-only servers, Custom Ubuntu setup	Anonymous account numbers	RoS (2023), Cure53
AirVPN	SSL/SSH tunneling, Perfect Forward Secrecy	ChaCha20-Poly1305	Own DNS infrastructure	4096-bit DH keys, Network Lock	Not mentioned
TorGuard	Stealth VPN, Dual kill switch	AES-256	Dedicated IP options	Multi-factor authentication	Not mentioned
Hide.me	Custom protocol selection, IPv6 support	AES-256	Dynamic port forwarding	Multiple protocol options	Not mentioned

Conclusion

A secure VPN selection depends on encryption standards, privacy features, and independent audit results. NordVPN has proven to be the most secure VPN based on our largest longitudinal study. It provides military-grade encryption and verified privacy protection. ExpressVPN ranks second with its innovative TrustedServer technology. Surfshark gives users premium security features at budget-friendly prices.

RAM-only servers, multi-hop connections, and kill switches are great ways to get user data protection. ProtonVPN’s Secure Core architecture and CyberGhost’s NoSpy servers show how physical security measures boost digital privacy protection.

These factors matter when you pick a VPN:

Independent audits that verify no-logs policies
Advanced encryption standards (AES-256 or ChaCha20)
Complete security features like kill switches and DNS leak protection
Clear privacy policies and company ownership

NordVPN ended up as our top choice for security-focused users. The service combines reliable encryption, advanced threat protection, and regular third-party audits to deliver complete privacy protection. Users who need specialized features might prefer ExpressVPN’s TrustedServer technology or ProtonVPN’s Swiss privacy guarantees.

Your specific needs should guide your choice. Each top VPN has unique strengths to think about, whether you need streaming support, torrenting capabilities, or maximum anonymity.

For those focused on security, selecting the best VPN for privacy that offers in-depth customization of privacy settings can make a significant difference.

In conclusion, choosing the best VPN for privacy involves evaluating various features like speed, security, and user reviews to find the perfect match for your needs.

In summary, if you’re looking for the best VPN for privacy, NordVPN offers a comprehensive solution with excellent security features. By prioritizing user privacy, NordVPN is indeed a strong contender for the title of best VPN for privacy.

Ultimately, your specific needs should guide your choice. Choosing the best VPN for privacy means evaluating various features like speed, security, and user reviews to find the perfect match for your needs.