Best VPNs for the USA are no longer a luxury – they’re a necessity. In an age of digital surveillance, data tracking, and rising cyber threats, protecting your online privacy is essential.
With the explosion of connected devices, smartphones monitoring your location, and weekly headlines about data breaches, internet users are more vulnerable than ever. In the United States, the stakes are even higher: ISPs can legally collect and sell your browsing data unless you take proactive steps to safeguard it. Government surveillance, corporate data mining, and hackers targeting unsecured networks have created an environment where online freedom and privacy are constantly under threat.
Whether you’re streaming your favorite series, working remotely from a café, or simply browsing the news, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is your first line of defense. A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, hides your real IP address, and lets you browse securely from anywhere.
But with countless options available, which VPNs truly stand out for users in the United States?
We’ve reviewed and ranked the Best VPNs for the USA in 2025 – focusing on speed, security, streaming capabilities, and overall value. Here’s everything you need to know to protect your digital life today.
Top 5 Best VPNs for the USA in 2025
Finding the best VPN in 2025 means more than just picking the fastest or cheapest service. The ideal VPN for users in the USA must deliver a balance of high-end security, wide server coverage, consistent streaming capabilities, and respect for user privacy. Whether you’re looking to bypass geo-restrictions, prevent ISP tracking, or simply secure your internet activity, the right VPN makes all the difference.
To help you make an informed decision, we’ve tested dozens of top-rated VPN services and shortlisted the five that truly stand out for users in the United States. Each of these VPNs brings unique strengths, from unlimited device support and budget-friendly pricing to advanced features like double encryption and stealth modes. Here’s a deeper look at the top VPNs trusted by millions in 2025.
ExpressVPN – Fast, Reliable, and Ultra Secure
ExpressVPN has long been a trusted leader in the VPN industry, and in 2025 it continues to stand out as the top choice for users in the USA. Renowned for its blazing-fast speeds and rock-solid reliability, ExpressVPN offers a seamless experience for streaming, gaming, and secure browsing – even during peak usage hours.
What makes ExpressVPN ideal for U.S. users is its widespread network of high-speed servers, including multiple locations across major U.S. cities. This ensures optimal performance whether you’re accessing local content or connecting internationally. With over 3,000 servers in 94 countries, you’ll enjoy fast, stable connections with minimal latency.
Security is at the core of ExpressVPN’s service. It employs military-grade AES-256 encryption, features an automatic kill switch, and enforces a strict no-logs policy that has been independently audited. The inclusion of split tunneling allows users to choose which apps go through the VPN, providing flexibility for both security and performance.
ExpressVPN also excels in bypassing geo-restrictions, making it a great choice for accessing international streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and more. Whether you’re looking for the best VPN for USA or traveling abroad and need a reliable VPN in US, ExpressVPN delivers a premium experience.
- Best for: Speed & reliability
- Servers: 3,000+ in 94 countries
- U.S. Locations: Multiple across major cities
- Key Features: AES-256 encryption, split tunneling, kill switch, no-logs policy, 24/7 live chat support
- Why It’s #1: Lightning-fast speeds, top-tier security, and reliable unblocking power make ExpressVPN a superior choice for U.S. users in 2025.
- 9.8
- The fastest and most reliable VPN on the market
- 9.5
- Low-cost VPN offering unrestricted device usage
- 8.2
- Affordable new VPN launched by top industry professionals
NordVPN – Top-Tier Privacy at a Great Price
NordVPN has solidified its reputation as one of the most privacy-focused VPNs on the market, and in 2025, it remains a top contender for U.S. users who demand airtight security without compromising performance. With a vast server network of over 6,000 servers across 60 countries — including hundreds in the United States — NordVPN delivers fast, stable, and secure connections no matter where you’re browsing from.
NordVPN’s standout feature is its advanced privacy architecture. It offers specialty servers such as Double VPN, which routes your internet traffic through two separate VPN servers for added anonymity, and Onion over VPN, which combines the privacy of the Tor network with the security of a VPN tunnel. These features are ideal for journalists, researchers, and privacy-conscious users who need the highest level of protection.
Its Threat Protection feature blocks malware, intrusive ads, and trackers even when you’re not connected to the VPN — offering 24/7 protection. NordVPN adheres to a strict no-logs policy, independently audited to ensure your data remains confidential. For users wondering if VPN use is allowed, rest assured: while the question “is VPN illegal in US” may arise, services like NordVPN are fully legal for personal security and privacy.
Streaming is another area where NordVPN shines. It consistently unblocks major platforms like Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, and Disney+, making it perfect for those looking to bypass geo-restrictions and enjoy global content. Whether you’re based in the U.S. or need the best VPN used in China to access U.S. sites abroad, NordVPN is up to the task.
- Best for: Privacy enthusiasts
- Servers: 6,000+ worldwide
- U.S. Locations: Hundreds across major cities
- Special Features: Double VPN, Onion over VPN, Threat Protection, no-logs policy, kill switch
- Streaming Support: Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, Disney+
- Why Choose Nord: With military-grade encryption, specialty privacy features, and powerful anti-tracking tools, NordVPN is the go-to choice for users who prioritize online anonymity at an affordable price.
Surfshark – Unlimited Devices, Unlimited Protection
Surfshark has become a favorite among users who need a reliable, affordable, and flexible VPN solution — especially families and households with multiple devices. In 2025, Surfshark stands out with its generous policy of unlimited device connections, making it one of the best values for money in the VPN market.
Despite its low price, Surfshark delivers premium features usually found in higher-end VPNs. Its CleanWeb technology blocks ads, malware, and phishing attempts before they even reach your browser. Surfshark’s Camouflage Mode is especially useful for users in restrictive regions or when using a VPN in US or abroad where stealth browsing is required. This feature hides the fact that you’re using a VPN, allowing you to bypass censorship and firewalls.
Surfshark also follows a strict no-logs policy and is headquartered in a privacy-friendly jurisdiction, ensuring that your online activities remain anonymous and protected. It includes essential features like AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection.
For streaming lovers, Surfshark is a powerhouse. It reliably unblocks major streaming platforms such as Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and HBO Max. Whether you’re at home using the best VPN for USA streaming or abroad accessing U.S. services with the best VPN used in China, Surfshark delivers high-speed, lag-free performance.
- Best for: Families and multi-device users
- Devices: Unlimited connections
- Highlights: CleanWeb (ad/malware blocker), Camouflage Mode, no-logs policy, kill switch, DNS leak protection
- Affordable Pricing: One of the best budget-friendly VPNs in 2025
- Bonus: Works flawlessly with U.S. streaming platforms and P2P networks, supports advanced privacy settings
- Why Choose Surfshark: If you’re looking for a budget VPN that doesn’t compromise on features and supports unlimited devices, Surfshark is a top-tier choice for users in the U.S. and beyond.
CyberGhost – User-Friendly & Packed with Features
CyberGhost has earned its reputation as one of the most accessible VPNs for beginners, offering a well-designed interface without sacrificing advanced functionality. In 2025, CyberGhost continues to lead the way with a combination of ease-of-use and powerful features that appeal to both casual users and seasoned VPN enthusiasts.
One of CyberGhost’s standout advantages is its massive server infrastructure. With over 11,000 servers globally and more than 1,300 servers located in the U.S., users can expect fast, stable connections across all regions. Whether you’re accessing U.S. content locally or using a VPN in USA free trial to test it out, CyberGhost delivers consistent performance.
CyberGhost offers dedicated profiles tailored for streaming, torrenting, gaming, and even anonymous browsing. These pre-configured modes take the guesswork out of setup, ensuring that users enjoy the best performance for their specific needs. It’s ideal for users who want a “plug-and-play” VPN that works seamlessly right out of the box.
Security-wise, CyberGhost is no slouch. It utilizes AES-256 encryption, features a kill switch, DNS and IP leak protection, and enforces a strict no-logs policy. It’s also headquartered in Romania — outside of the 14 Eyes surveillance alliance — which adds an extra layer of confidence for privacy seekers wondering “is VPN illegal in US?” (It’s not — and CyberGhost makes legal, private browsing easy and intuitive.)
The VPN excels at unblocking streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video. It’s also a solid choice for travelers needing the best VPN used in China to access U.S.-based content from abroad.
- Best for: VPN beginners
- Servers: 11,000+ globally, with 1,300+ in the U.S.
- Dedicated Profiles: For streaming, gaming, torrenting, and anonymous browsing
- User Interface: Beginner-friendly with one-click connections
- Privacy: No-logs policy, based in privacy-friendly Romania
- Why It Stands Out: CyberGhost combines simplicity, performance, and customization,
Private Internet Access (PIA) – Open Source and Proven Secure
Private Internet Access, or PIA, has built a strong reputation as one of the most transparent and customizable VPNs on the market. In 2025, it remains a top choice for tech-savvy users in the U.S. who demand full control over their privacy settings without sacrificing speed or reliability.
One of PIA’s standout features is its commitment to open-source transparency. All of its apps are open-source, meaning their code is publicly available for inspection. This level of transparency builds trust with privacy-conscious users, as it allows independent verification of the app’s security and ensures there are no hidden vulnerabilities or backdoors.
PIA is also highly customizable. Unlike most VPNs that offer fixed settings, PIA lets users tweak encryption levels, switch protocols (WireGuard®, OpenVPN, and more), and configure advanced network settings — ideal for developers and advanced users who want fine-grained control. It even supports multi-hop configurations, routing your traffic through multiple VPN servers for enhanced anonymity.
Despite being U.S.-based — which might raise concerns for some — PIA maintains a proven strict no-logs policy. This has been verified in multiple court cases, where PIA was unable to produce user data because it simply does not store any. For users wondering, “is VPN illegal in US?” — the answer remains no, and PIA operates fully legally while empowering you with advanced security tools.
Streaming performance is also solid, with support for Netflix, Hulu, and other popular platforms. PIA includes features like an automatic kill switch, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and ad/tracker blocking through its MACE tool, offering a comprehensive security package.
- Best for: Advanced users, developers, and open-source enthusiasts
- Headquarters: United States
- Special Features: Open-source apps, multi-hop routing, customizable encryption, MACE ad-blocker, kill switch
- Streaming & Torrenting: Supports major U.S. platforms and P2P traffic
- Why We Recommend It: PIA offers unmatched transparency and configurability, making it a top choice for users who want a secure, open-source VPN backed by a real-world track record.
Key Features to Look for in a U.S. VPN
When choosing a VPN for use in the United States, prioritize the following:
- U.S.-based servers for faster local connections
- Strict no-logs policy to protect your data
- Strong encryption and kill switch for added safety
- Streaming and torrenting support
- Cross-platform compatibility (Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, etc.)
Why U.S. Users Need a VPN in 2025
The United States is home to some of the world’s largest data collection entities, from ISPs to advertising networks. Here’s why a VPN is critical:
- Bypass Geo-Restrictions: Access content from around the world, including international Netflix libraries and sports broadcasts.
- Stay Safe on Public Wi-Fi: Protect your data on networks in airports, cafes, and hotels.
- Prevent ISP Throttling: Enjoy consistent streaming and gaming speeds without slowdowns.
- Maintain Anonymity: Hide your IP address and prevent websites from tracking your behavior.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is using a VPN legal in the United States?
Yes, using a VPN is completely legal in the U.S. for personal privacy, security, and unrestricted browsing. However, illegal activities conducted while using a VPN remain illegal.
Can I use a free VPN in the USA?
Yes, there are free VPNs available, but they often come with limitations such as slower speeds, data caps, and fewer security features. If you need consistent performance and privacy, a premium VPN is strongly recommended.
Can I use a VPN on multiple devices?
Yes, many top VPNs like Surfshark allow unlimited device connections, while others like NordVPN and ExpressVPN support multiple simultaneous connections under one account.
What is the best VPN for the USA in 2025?
While many VPNs perform well, ExpressVPN currently ranks as the best VPN for USA users in 2025 due to its speed, security, and reliability. NordVPN, Surfshark, and CyberGhost are also excellent alternatives.
