The 7 Fastest VPNs of 2024

Since they route your traffic through an extra server, any VPN will slow you down. However, things in that regard have drastically changed over the last couple of years. VPNs are now faster than ever before, and they bring more options for you to fine-tune and improve your speeds. That said, the fastest VPNs bring minimal slowdowns, letting you maintain close to the full speed of your connection.

Of course, it's important to use a high-speed VPN but don't overlook the essentials. Aside from smooth and speedy performance, your chosen VPN should offer robust VPN protocols, plenty of servers around the world, modern software, and user-centric logging policies. After all, even the fastest VPN isn't worth much if it's not capable of guarding you from data leaks, right?

In this guide, we'll talk about the fastest VPN services in 2024, help you compare their performance, explain why fast VPN services are required, explain how VPNs affect speeds, how fast should your connection be for a VPN, how to find a fast-performing VPN, how to speed up a slow VPN, and we'll finish with a round of helpful FAQs.

Fastest VPN Services - Our Shortlist

1. ExpressVPN - Our #1-Rated Fastest VPN in 2024
2. NordVPN - Ultra-High Speed VPN for Any Purpose
3. Surfshark - Fast VPN Connections Without Fine-Tuning
4. PIA - Customizable Balance Between Speed and Security
5. IPVanish - User-Friendly VPN with Reliable Performance
6. Ivacy - Automated VPN with Fast Nearby Connections
7. CyberGhost VPN - Specialized Servers Optimized for Speed

The Fastest VPN Services in 2024

To find the fastest VPN services, you need to inspect and research their performance - while paying attention to other features that make the best VPNs overall. More precisely, the most important thing is to get a VPN with fast speeds and high-end performance. Then, pay attention to security features, such as a no-logs policy, strong protocols, and bulletproof encryption.

Next, a capable fast-speed VPN should also have plenty of servers in as many locations as possible. It should also have the ability to unblock censored or geo-blocked content. Don't forget about obfuscated servers, which help you use smaller data packets to avoid detection, as well as a kill switch, which is how you'll get to prevent accidental data leaks.

You'll also want a sufficient number of simultaneous connections, as well as native applications for all your devices (computers, phones, tablets, etc.). Pay attention to the pricing as well and ensure there's a generous money-back policy that will protect your purchase. Last but not least, your VPN should also offer 24/7 live chat customer support.

Based on the criteria established above, here are the 7 fastest VPNs in 2024:

1. ExpressVPN – Our #1-Rated Fastest VPN in 2024

ExpressVPN is the fastest VPN in 2024, managing to bring ultra-fast performance paired with high-end security and privacy features. This VPN will slow you down by around 10% only, as our repeated tests have shown. So, you should have no issues even if your connection is on the slow side.

This VPN brings an often-audited no-logs policy and uses RAM-only servers. So, there's no chance of your data reaching ExpressVPN servers. Next, there are protocols such as OpenVPN and Lightway, paired with AES-256 encryption. It simply doesn't get better than that!

ExpressVPN has 3,000+ servers in 105 countries, covering the fastest VPN countries worldwide. It also works great as a tool to fight against censorship and bypass streaming geo-blocks, such as those imposed by Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, (HBO) Max, Sling TV, YouTube TV, and similar. And its entire network is obfuscated, and there's a kill switch across all its apps.

Your subscription to this VPN will get you 8 simultaneous connections. Also, you'll get apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, streaming devices, and even routers. All that is priced at $6.67/month (1-year plan), and your purchase will be backed by a 30-day money-back policy. Finally, 24/7 live chat support is there as well, in addition to installation guides, explainers, and more.

2. NordVPN – Ultra-High Speed VPN for Any Purpose

NordVPN is an ultra-popular high-speed VPN that's suitable for practically any use. In terms of its speed, you won't be disappointed. As per our tests, this VPN will slow you down by 15%, which means that you'll hardly notice this slowdown. Even with a slow connection, NordVPN will let you stream, browse, and download files.

Next, there's an audited no-logs policy which, ensures your privacy stays intact. NordVPN also comes with OpenVPN and NordLynx (WireGuard) protocols, combined with AES-256/ChaCha20 encryption, which should be more than enough to help create a truly safe VPN data tunnel.

Looking for the best country for VPN speed? Well, expect 6,000+ servers in 60+ countries and use that server army to access the fastest VPN locations and unblock any type of content. NordVPN truly excels in that area and even supports tons of streaming apps. On top of that, obfuscation is present on most servers, and a kill switch is available across all devices.

NordVPN allows you to connect from 6 devices simultaneously. It also offers apps for computers, phones, tablets, streaming devices, and routers. You can get started for $3.39/month (2-year plan) without any risk, as NordVPN has a 30-day money-back policy. Let's not forget to mention that 24/7 live chat support is part of the VPN's offer as well.

3. Surfshark – Fast VPN Connections Without Fine-Tuning

Surfshark is a user-friendly VPN for speed that can achieve ultra-fast performance without any fine-tuning. As such, it's a great option if you're new to the world of VPNs. Based on our tests, this VPN will slow you down by around 16%, which puts Surfshark head-to-head with top-performing VPNs.

At its core, this is an audited no-logs VPN powered by RAM-only servers. It's based on reliable protocols like OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2/IPsec, paired with AES-256 and/or ChaCha20 encryption ciphers. It also has an antivirus component, an ad-blocker, and the ability to use more than a single VPN server.

This VPN provides access to 3,200+ servers in 100 countries, evenly distributed worldwide. It provides access to practically any site, so geo-blocks will never be an issue. No matter if you want to access a digital service not available in your country or perhaps visit another country's streaming library, Surfshark will be there to support you. There's also obfuscation and a kill switch to guard you.

Surfshark comes with unlimited (unmetered) connections and easy-to-use apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, streaming devices, and routers. You can get started for $2.29/month (2-year plan) and expect a 30-day money-back policy to safeguard your purchase. Let's not forget that 24/7 live chat support is also there, as well as email support, support tickets, and more.

4. PIA – Customizable Balance Between Speed and Security

Private Internet Access (PIA) provides a plethora of customization options to boost VPN speed without sacrificing your privacy. You get a relatively fast and stable performance, but keep in mind that PIA will slow you down by around 30% out of the box.

This is a reputable, no-logs VPN provider. You'll get to pick from OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2/IPsec, all of which are ultra-secure protocols. What's interesting is that you can customize PIA's encryption, as it offers both AES-128 and AES-256, as well as ChaCha20, which you'll hardly find elsewhere.

Next, know that PIA provides thousands of servers in 90+ countries. Increasing its security features will allow you to bypass even the toughest digital roadblocks, such as those employed by Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, ESPN+, iPlayer, and many Europe-based streaming services. You can also use obfuscation, which can be enabled on-demand, and the same applies to PIA's kill switch.

Another perk is that this VPN comes with unlimited simultaneous connections. You'll find its apps on Windows, Linux, macOS, handheld platforms like Android and iOS, as well as streaming devices and routers. It's priced at $2.19/month (2-year plan) and has a 30-day money-back policy. Finally, expect 24/7 live chat customer support as well.

5. IPVanish – User-Friendly VPN with Reliable Performance

IPVanish is long-standing VPN service, known for its user-friendliness. It provides stable performance and relatively fast speed while also ensuring proper privacy protection. Based on our tests, it will reduce the speed of your connection by 38% on average.

We'll also add that IPVanish is a verified no-logs VPN service. With this VPN, you get access to protocols like OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2/IPsec, paired with AES-256 and ChaCha20. That said, the basics are covered quite well, so you can expect reliable digital security and privacy.

Let's not forget to mention that IPVanish has 2,200+ servers in 55+ countries. So, not the biggest server network out there, but it does target all of the popular "VPN destinations." It works with plenty of streaming apps, like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and Max, but also unblocks 9NOW, RaiPlay, and other non-US servers. There's also obfuscation on board, as well as a kill switch that can prevent data leaks.

IPVanish brings unlimited simultaneous connections, as well as simple-to-use applications for phones, computers, streaming devices, and routers. You can get started for $2.75/month for its 2-year plan, which comes backed by a generous 30-day money-back policy. Like other reputable VPNs, this one also has 24/7 live chat customer support.

6. Ivacy – Automated VPN with Fast Nearby Connections

Ivacy provides a fully automated VPN with robust security and privacy, plenty of server locations, and strong content-unblocking abilities. Of course, it also has fast enough performance. You can expect it to slow you down by 40% on average.

Thanks to its no-logs policy, you can rest assured that Ivacy won't store your sensitive information. Also, it supports a whole range of protocols, such as OpenVPN, WireGuard, L2TP/IPsec, IKEv2/IPsec, and more. Those are paired with AES-256 and ChaCha20, which is the strongest commercially available encryption.

Next, you get 6,500+ servers in 60+ countries. Using those, you can access some of the world's most popular streaming apps, like Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, Prime Video, and ESPN+, as well as non-US services like Canal+, SBS, ZDF, and beIN Sports. Ivacy also employs obfuscation and has a kill switch, so you won't have to worry about data leaks.

Your subscription to Ivacy will also come with 10 simultaneous connections. You can sign up for only $1.00 per month for Ivacy's 5-year plan. There's also a 30-day money-back guarantee, making your purchase risk-free. Finally, expect 24/7 live chat support as well.

7. CyberGhost VPN – Specialized Servers Optimized for Speed

CyberGhost is one of the world's most recognizable VPN brands, available on the global market for more than a decade now. This VPN provides stable connections and solid performance. After testing nearby and remote connections, it slowed us down by 41% on average.

In terms of security and privacy, few VPNs are as powerful as this one. You get an audited no-logs policy as well as protocols like OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2/IPsec, paired with AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption. This VPN also employs 'NoSpy' servers (priced extra) if you need ultra-high-end privacy protection for your sensitive data.

CyberGhost gives you 11,500+ servers in 100+ countries. Among those, you'll find servers for streaming, giving you access to 50+ streaming services. This VPN can easily unblock Netflix, Hulu, Apple TV+, YouTube TV, Fubo TV, DirecTV, and dozens of other streaming services. Sadly, there's no obfuscation (you can't hide your VPN data), but you do get a kill switch.

This VPN will also give you 7 simultaneous connections. You can subscribe for $2.03/month if you get its 2-year plan, which comes with a 45-day money guarantee (one of the most generous overall). Needless to say, 24/7 live chat support is on board as well.

VPN Speed Test: Comparison

Why Do You Need a Fast VPN?

You need a fast VPN to be able to stream video in HD and 4K, use your 4G/5G connection without throttling, download torrents fast, and play games with the lowest latency. Here's more info:

• HD and Ultra HD Streaming: A high-speed VPN will allow you to stream in HD and 4K on any device without any buffering. This is especially important if you live in a large household where multiple individuals might stream at the same time.
• 4G/5G Connections: The best, fastest VPN service won't interfere with your 4G/5G connection, which means you'll still reap all the benefits of those types of mobile data connection, including fast download/upload speeds and low latency.
• Fast and Secure Torrenting: A VPN is needed for torrenting to unblock P2P sites and ensure that your P2P traffic remains undetectable by your Internet provider. On top of that, a speedy P2P VPN will also ensure you get fast enough download speeds for large files.
• Better Gaming Experience: If you like to play online games, know that a fast-performing VPN will help you maintain the full speed of your baseline connection. Also, it'll ensure that you have the lowest ping, so you won't have to worry about latency when playing games.
• Bypass Bandwidth Throttling: Some Internet providers implement selective throttling, which might be why you see slow speeds when streaming or downloading files. The best VPN for speed can actually reverse that, allowing you to use the full speed of your Internet connection.

How Did We Test the Fastest VPNs Available?

We test VPN services by actually using them - unlike most other VPN review sites. It means that our findings are based on the real-world performance of each VPN, and we try to provide you with our unbiased opinion.

So, when it comes to checking the speed of each VPN, this is a four-step process.

1. First, we establish our baseline data by testing our Web connection without a VPN.
2. Then, we connect to nearby servers in Italy and the United Kingdom.
3. We test long-distance servers in the USA, Canada, India, and Australia.
4. We compare the download and upload speeds we got from each round of our VPN tests.

Also, we test each VPN provider using its default protocol, which is WireGuard in most cases. And, as noted above, we test both nearby and remote servers, whose results are then displayed in percentages compared to our baseline connection.

The best VPNs will slow you down by around 10-15%, which is considered an amazing result. That said, even if a VPN slows you down by 30-40%, that could be considered a good result - if you have a fast enough baseline connection, to begin with.

The big question is - what kind of performance can you expect? Well, that's hard to predict, as that depends on your physical location, the chosen VPN protocol, and other things. However, all the numbers you can see above give you a clear indication of what to expect in general. And more precisely, those numbers let you compare the VPNs we've recommended.

How Does a VPN Affect Internet Speed?

The truth is that any VPN will slow you down - up to a certain extent. However, you must be wondering how exactly VPNs affect your Internet speed. By understanding that, we can talk about how to improve this situation.

Based on what we've said above, these are the reasons why VPNs introduce latency and make your Web connection slower:

• Distance to a VPN Server: In general, nearby VPN servers will perform better than remote ones. By connecting to a remote server, you'll make your data travel more, which introduces latency. That's why we've highlighted the performances of individual VPNs in terms of their nearby and remote servers, so you know what to expect.
• Server Load (Occupancy): If you pick a VPN with a low number of servers, you'll increase your chances of encountering overloaded servers. That will reduce the speed of your Internet connection. To help you avoid this, we've recommended not only the fastest VPN services but also those with plenty of strategically placed servers.
• Level of VPN Encryption: We've done our speed tests using AES-256, the VPN industry's standard level of encryption. Average home users could also get away with AES-126, which will help them achieve faster Internet speeds.
• Chosen VPN Protocol: Every VPN protocol is different. By using OpenVPN, you can expect high-end data security, but that protocol also introduces a bigger slowdown. Modern protocols, such as WireGuard, tend to perform better in the long.
• Internet Speed Offered by Your ISP: If you have a very slow Web connection, a VPN might make it impossible for you to stream video (for example). However, if your connection is throttled by your ISP, there's a chance a VPN might improve the overall speed and performance of your Internet connection.

What Is a Good Internet Speed for a VPN?

In general, the faster your Internet speed is, the better. However, to answer the question of how fast your Web connection speed should be (for using a VPN), we'll give you precise numbers.

The table below shows different categories of online activities, along with recommended speeds for each of those activities. We've also included a "VPN tax," helping you predict what to expect once you start using a VPN.

How to Choose a Fast VPN in 2024?

To choose a fast VPN, you need to ensure that it features fast download and upload speeds. However, you'll also want a no-logs policy, strong security, and a vast server network. Here's everything you need to keep in mind:

• Performance and Speed: Your chosen VPN should offer fast download and upload speeds, ensuring you get to keep up with all your favorite online activities.
• No-Logs Policy: A no-logs policy will ensure that no one sees your data, not even your VPN service. If possible, sign up for a VPN with an audited no-logs privacy policy.
• VPN Protocols and Encryption: WireGuard is great if you want ultra-fast speeds. If you care about privacy and security, go with OpenVPN, which should be paired with AES-256.
• Server Network Size: Remember that nearby servers will get you the fastest performance, as those are always the fastest VPN servers. You'll also want remote servers as well, to unblock content.
• Ability to Unblock Content: Speaking of unblocking online content, you'll want a VPN that can bypass censorship and work against regional geo-blocks.
• Obfuscated Servers: Obfuscation will help you hide your VPN traffic, which means that not even your Internet provider won't know that you use a VPN to re-route your data.
• Kill Switch and Split Tunneling: A kill switch helps prevent data leaks, while split tunneling lets you create a pair of data tunnels for your non-VPN data as well.
• Simultaneous Connections and Supported Devices: Ensure you get coverage for all your devices using a single VPN connection, and you'll want native software across the board.
• Pricing: A high-performing VPN doesn't have to cost a lot. If you're on a budget, know that you can find some amazing deals when investing in multi-year subscriptions.
• Money-Back Guarantees: A VPN with a generous money-back policy will give you plenty of time to test-drive its features, so you'll be making a risk-free purchase.
• Customer Support: Finally, ensure there's 24/7 live chat support, which is always the best way to troubleshoot and resolve any technical issues.

How to Speed Up a Slow VPN?

To speed up a slow VPN, we recommend trying a different server as well as switching to another protocol (for example, from OpenVPN to WireGuard). In most cases, those two actions should help you increase VPN speeds.

Also, stick to nearby VPN servers, which is a foolproof way to increase VPN speed. You can also try downgrading the level of encryption (from AES-256 to AES-128, for example) if your VPN app gives you that option. And, of course, make sure your VPN is up-to-date at all times.

We have a dedicated article on how to speed up slow VPN services, so make sure to take a look. As you'll see for yourself, we recommend using a nearby server (instead of a remote one), installing a VPN on your router, taking advantage of split tunneling, and more.

Final Thoughts

Even though any VPN service will slow you down a bit, making an effort to high-performing one is always a smart decision. Every VPN is different in terms of its performance, and you'll want the best possible experience. That said, a fast VPN will let you stream, download, and browse without any slowdowns, and some might even help you bypass ISP-induced throttling.

We recommend ExpressVPN if you want ultra-smooth performance and high-end security. Also, you can go with NordVPN if you need high-end speeds and the ability to unblock any website. Those two are the fastest VPN services in 2024, known not only for the speed of their connections but also a huge list of features that make your browsing safe, private, and unrestricted.

With that said, we conclude our guide to the fastest VPN services. If you have any questions or doubts, feel free to post a comment below. Thank you for reading!