#1
NordVPN 🏆 #1 pick
✅ Fastest VPN thanks to the NordLynx protocol · No-log policy audited three times
9.6/10
See the offer → The best VPN in 2026, tested and compared
We tested the 8 main VPNs on the market to help you make the right choice. Speed, security, streaming, price: here is our independent ranking.
Featured in our comparison
🏆 Our top 3
Ranking based on our tests of speed, security, streaming and value.
#2
Surfshark 💰 Best value
✅ Unlimited simultaneous connections · Best value for money on the market
9.2/10
See the offer → #3
CyberGhost 🎬 Streaming king
✅ Largest server network (11,500+) · Servers optimised for Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video
9.1/10
See the offer → Quick comparison
| VPN | Rating | Price/mo | Servers | Devices | Refund | Offer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | 9.6/10 | 3,09 €/mo | 9 200+ | 10 devices | 30 d. | See |
| Surfshark | 9.2/10 | 2,19 €/mo | 3 200+ | Unlimited | 30 d. | See |
| CyberGhost | 9.1/10 | 2,03 €/mo | 11 500+ | 7 devices | 45 d. | See |
| Proton VPN | 9.0/10 | 4,49 €/mo | 4 500+ | 10 devices | 30 d. | See |
| ExpressVPN | 8.9/10 | 6,12 €/mo | 3 000+ | 8 devices | 30 d. | See |
How to choose your VPN?
Choosing a VPN in 2026 is not just about picking the cheapest. Here are the 6 criteria that really matter:
⚡ Speed
A good VPN should not cost you more than 10 to 15% of your bandwidth. Check that it uses WireGuard or a derivative (NordLynx, Lightway).
🔐 Security
AES-256 encryption minimum, kill switch, independently audited no-log policy, and a jurisdiction outside 14 Eyes if privacy is your priority.
🎬 Streaming
Netflix US, Disney+, BBC iPlayer... Not all VPNs unblock everything. Prefer those with dedicated streaming servers (NordVPN, CyberGhost).
💰 Price
Aim for $2 to $4 per month on a long-term plan. Be wary of $1 offers that often hide low-quality services.
📱 Ease of use
Clean apps on Windows, Mac, Android, iOS and ideally TV/routers. Responsive customer support is a real plus.
🌍 Network
At least 60 countries covered and several thousand servers. A small network saturates quickly and limits geo-location options.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best VPN in 2026?
Based on our tests, NordVPN remains the best VPN in 2026 thanks to its speed (NordLynx protocol), its triple-audited no-log policy and its reliable unblocking of all streaming catalogues. Surfshark is the best value-for-money alternative.
Is it legal to use a VPN?
Yes, using a VPN is completely legal in most Western countries, including France, the UK and the US. What you do through the VPN remains subject to the law: illegal downloading or fraud is still illegal, VPN or not.
Is a free VPN enough?
For casual, occasional use, a free VPN like Proton VPN Free can help out. But they are almost always limited (speed, servers, volume) and some resell your data. For daily use, a paid VPN at $2-4 per month is far safer.
Does a VPN slow down my connection?
Yes, always a little, because your data takes a detour via the VPN server. But on the best services (NordVPN, Surfshark, ExpressVPN), the loss is around 5 to 15%—imperceptible for HD streaming or regular browsing.
How much does a good VPN cost?
With a 2-year commitment, the best VPNs cost between $2 and $4 per month. Monthly plans (no commitment) are closer to $10-13—best avoided for regular use.
Ready to choose your VPN?
NordVPN remains our #1 recommendation in 2026.
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