What is the best VPN in 2026?

NordVPN and ExpressVPN consistently rank as the best all-round VPNs for speed, privacy, and server coverage. Surfshark offers the best value for multiple devices. Mullvad is the top choice for privacy-first users.

Is a VPN worth it in 2026?

Yes, for public WiFi security, accessing geo-restricted content, and basic privacy protection. A VPN does not make you anonymous — it shifts trust from your ISP to the VPN provider. Choose providers with audited no-log policies.

How much does a good VPN cost?

Most reputable VPNs cost $3–10/month on annual plans. NordVPN and Surfshark often run promotions at $2–4/month. Avoid VPNs that are free — they often monetize your data.

Does a VPN slow down your internet?

Modern VPNs slow speeds by 5–20% on a fast connection. NordVPN and ExpressVPN impact speed the least in our tests. For 4K streaming and gaming, choose a server close to your location.

5 Produkte getestet

Best VPN Services 2026

We tested the top VPN providers on speed, privacy policy, server coverage, and streaming performance. From budget options to premium services with the best affiliate programs — find the right VPN for your needs.

Zuletzt aktualisiert: 4. April 2026

Top Pick

Nord Security

NordVPN

9.2/10

$3.99

“Best overall VPN: NordVPN leads the market on security architecture, server scale, and feature depth — while offering one of the strongest affiliate programs in the industry.”

100% diskless RAM servers — zero data retention by design
Up to 40% recurring affiliate commission with 30-day cookie
6,400+ servers in 111 countries — largest premium server network

Slightly slower on distant servers vs ExpressVPN
Premium pricing on monthly plan ($12.99/mo)
Advanced features like Meshnet can have a learning curve

Zum Angebot * Read review →

Kape Technologies

ExpressVPN

8.9/10

$6.67

“Fastest VPN available: ExpressVPN's Lightway protocol delivers the best raw speeds and the smoothest streaming experience — ideal for users who prioritize performance over price.”

Fastest speeds we tested — Lightway protocol outperforms WireGuard on many servers
Available on 105 countries — widest router and smart TV support
TrustedServer technology: RAM-only servers, no data written to disk

Most expensive premium VPN at $8.32/mo on annual plan
Slightly smaller server count than NordVPN (3,000+)
No built-in ad blocker on standard plan

Zum Angebot * Read review →

Surfshark B.V.

Surfshark

8.7/10

$2.19

“Best value VPN: Surfshark's unlimited device connections and sub-$3/mo pricing make it the obvious choice for families, households, and users with many devices.”

Unlimited simultaneous device connections — best for households
40% affiliate commission with 30-day cookie
CleanWeb blocks ads and malware across all apps (not just browser)

Slightly slower than NordVPN and ExpressVPN on long-distance servers
Smaller server network (3,200+ vs NordVPN's 6,400+)
Some advanced features require Surfshark One subscription (+$1.49/mo)

Zum Angebot * Read review →

Kape Technologies

CyberGhost VPN

8.3/10

$2.03

“Best for streaming: CyberGhost's labeled streaming servers take the guesswork out of finding the right server for Netflix, Disney+, or Hulu — ideal for cord-cutters.”

Streaming-optimized servers labeled by service and country
Largest server network overall — 9,600+ servers in 100 countries
45-day money-back guarantee (longest in the market)

Privacy jurisdiction: owned by Kape Technologies (UK/Israel)
Slower speeds on premium protocols vs NordVPN and ExpressVPN
Desktop app can feel dated compared to NordVPN/Surfshark

Zum Angebot * Read review →

Proton AG

Proton VPN

8.5/10

$0.00

“Best for privacy: Proton VPN's Swiss jurisdiction, open-source code, and fully unlimited free plan make it the most trustworthy VPN for privacy-focused users.”

Only premium VPN with a genuinely unlimited free plan
Swiss jurisdiction — strongest legal privacy protection available
Open-source apps — all code publicly audited on GitHub

Free plan limited to 3 server locations and slower speeds
Paid plans more expensive than NordVPN per feature
Streaming support less consistent than CyberGhost or NordVPN

Zum Angebot * Read review →

Buying Guide

The best VPN depends on your priorities: NordVPN leads on security features and server count, ExpressVPN on speed and device coverage, Surfshark on price for unlimited devices, CyberGhost on streaming, and Proton VPN on privacy and a genuinely free tier.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best VPN in 2026?: NordVPN and ExpressVPN consistently rank as the best all-round VPNs for speed, privacy, and server coverage. Surfshark offers the best value for multiple devices. Mullvad is the top choice for privacy-first users.
Is a VPN worth it in 2026?: Yes, for public WiFi security, accessing geo-restricted content, and basic privacy protection. A VPN does not make you anonymous — it shifts trust from your ISP to the VPN provider. Choose providers with audited no-log policies.
How much does a good VPN cost?: Most reputable VPNs cost $3–10/month on annual plans. NordVPN and Surfshark often run promotions at $2–4/month. Avoid VPNs that are free — they often monetize your data.
Does a VPN slow down your internet?: Modern VPNs slow speeds by 5–20% on a fast connection. NordVPN and ExpressVPN impact speed the least in our tests. For 4K streaming and gaming, choose a server close to your location.