If you’re new to the world of VPNs, it can be a bit confusing to choose the right one. A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, helps keep your online activities private and secure. In this article, we will explore the best VPNs for beginners, focusing on those that are easy to use and understand. Whether you want to browse safely or access content from different countries, we’ve got you covered with our top picks for the best VPNs that won’t overwhelm you.
1. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is often considered the best VPN for beginners due to its user-friendly design and strong security features. It combines speed, privacy, and ease of use, making it a top choice for anyone new to VPNs.
Key Features
- Speed: One of the fastest VPNs available, ensuring smooth browsing and streaming.
- User-Friendly Interface: Simple to navigate, even for those who are not tech-savvy.
- Wide Device Support: Works on various devices, including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Excellent privacy features | Higher price compared to others |
| Great for streaming | Limited to five connections per account |
| Easy to set up and use | No phone support available |
ExpressVPN is designed to be straightforward. Just download the app, choose a server, and connect. It’s that simple!
How to Use ExpressVPN
- Download the App: Get the app for your device.
- Create an Account: Sign up and log in.
- Select a Server: Choose a location from the list.
- Connect: Hit the big power button to start using the VPN.
ExpressVPN is a solid choice for anyone looking to enhance their online security while enjoying a seamless internet experience.
2. CyberGhost
CyberGhost is a great choice for beginners looking for a user-friendly VPN. It offers a simple interface and a wide range of features that make it easy to use.
Performance
CyberGhost provides decent download speeds, averaging around 223 Mbps, which is excellent for streaming and downloading. However, upload speeds can be slower, dropping to about 75 Mbps on a 250 Mbps connection. Here’s a quick look at its performance:
| Speed Type | Speed (Mbps) |
| Download Speed | 223 |
| Upload Speed | 75 |
Security Features
CyberGhost takes security seriously. Here are some of its key features:
- No-logs policy: Your browsing data is not stored.
- Military-grade encryption: Keeps your data safe from prying eyes.
- NoSpy servers: Special servers located in Romania for extra privacy.
Pricing Plans
CyberGhost offers flexible pricing options, making it affordable for everyone. Here’s a breakdown of their plans:
| Plan Duration | Total Cost | Monthly Cost |
| 1 Month | $12.99 | $12.99 |
| 6 Months | $41.94 | $6.99 |
| 2 Years | $56.94 | $2.19 |
CyberGhost is perfect for those who want a reliable VPN without breaking the bank. Its user-friendly design and strong security features make it a top choice for beginners.
3. Surfshark
Surfshark is a fantastic choice for beginners who want a user-friendly VPN without breaking the bank. It offers unlimited connections, making it perfect for families with many devices.
Key Features
- Affordable Plans: Surfshark’s pricing starts at just $1.99 per month for a two-year plan.
- Unlimited Devices: Connect as many devices as you want at the same time.
- User-Friendly Interface: The app is easy to navigate, making it simple for anyone to use.
Performance
| Feature | Rating |
| Speed | Very Fast |
| Security | 9.5/10 |
| Streaming Support | Excellent |
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Affordable pricing
- Strong security features
Cons:
- Limited router support
- Not the best for torrenting
Surfshark is a great option for those looking for a budget-friendly VPN that doesn’t compromise on features. With a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try it risk-free!
4. Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a well-known VPN that offers a lot of features for users. It is especially good for those who want to customize their VPN experience.
Key Features
- Unlimited device connections: You can connect as many devices as you want at the same time.
- Split tunneling: This feature lets you choose which apps use the VPN and which do not.
- Independent audits: PIA has passed several checks to prove it does not keep logs of your activity.
Pricing Plans
| Plan Type | Monthly Price | Total Cost for 2 Years |
| Monthly | $11.99 | – |
| 6-Month | $7.50 | – |
| 2-Year (+2 months) | $2.19 | $52.56 |
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Great for privacy with verified no-log policy.
- Many extra features like multi-hop.
- Large server network for better connection options.
Cons:
- The app can be a bit tricky to use at first.
- Speeds may not be the fastest compared to others.
PIA is a solid choice for beginners who want a customizable VPN experience. It offers many features that can be adjusted to fit your needs.
Who Should Use PIA?
- If you want to connect many devices at once.
- If you like to customize your VPN settings.
- If you are looking for a budget-friendly option.
5. NordVPN
NordVPN is a popular choice for many users, offering a lot of features that can help keep your online activities safe. It’s known for its strong security and fast speeds, making it a great option for both beginners and more experienced users.
Key Features
- Speed: NordVPN provides fast connection speeds, which is great for streaming and gaming.
- Security: It uses strong encryption to protect your data.
- User-Friendly: While it has many features, the basic functions are easy to use.
Pricing Plans
| Plan Type | Monthly Cost | Total Cost | Savings |
| 1-Month Plan | $11.99 | $11.99 | – |
| 6-Month Plan | $7.50 | $45 billed every 6 months | Save 37% |
| 2-Year Plan + 2 Months | $2.19 | $56.94 billed every 2 years | Save 81% |
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Lots of advanced features available.
- Affordable for the quality it offers.
- Very fast connection speeds.
Cons:
- Some features can be complicated for beginners.
- The mobile app can be a bit clunky.
NordVPN is a solid choice for anyone looking to enhance their online privacy and security. It offers a variety of features that cater to different needs, making it versatile for all users.
6. ProtonVPN
ProtonVPN is a strong choice for beginners looking for a user-friendly VPN. It offers a great balance of speed and privacy features.
Key Features
- Multi-hop connections: This feature allows your data to pass through multiple servers for extra security.
- Camouflage Mode: It hides your VPN usage, making it look like regular internet traffic.
- Kill Switch: This tool disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops, keeping your data safe.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Fast speeds | Higher prices for premium plans |
| Free version available | Limited customer support |
| Access to Netflix and torrenting | Fewer servers compared to others |
ProtonVPN is based in Switzerland, a country known for its strong privacy laws, which helps ensure your data remains private.
Performance
ProtonVPN is known for its excellent upload speeds, making it suitable for video calls and streaming. Users have reported minimal slowdowns, with average speeds around 240 Mbps.
Who Should Use ProtonVPN?
ProtonVPN is ideal for both beginners and experienced users. Its free version is perfect for those on a budget, while the paid plans offer advanced features for more serious users. For more feedback and opinions, check out free vpn best reddit to see how ProtonVPN ranks among other options.
7. PrivadoVPN
PrivadoVPN is a great choice for beginners looking for a user-friendly VPN experience. It offers a simple interface that makes it easy to connect and start browsing securely.
Key Features:
- User-Friendly Interface: The app is designed for easy navigation, making it perfect for first-time users.
- Strong Privacy Protection: PrivadoVPN has a strict no-logs policy, ensuring your online activities remain private.
- Multiple Server Locations: With servers in various countries, you can access content from around the world.
Pricing Plans:
| Plan Type | Monthly Price | Yearly Price |
| Basic | $5.99 | $3.99/month |
| Premium | $9.99 | $4.99/month |
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Easy to use for beginners
- Good customer support
- Free version available with limited features
Cons:
- Limited features in the free version
- Speeds can vary depending on the server
PrivadoVPN is a solid option for those who want a straightforward VPN without complicated settings. It’s perfect for anyone who values privacy and ease of use.
8. TunnelBear
TunnelBear is a fun and easy-to-use VPN that is perfect for beginners. Its friendly bear-themed design makes it approachable for anyone new to VPNs. Here are some key points about TunnelBear:
- User-Friendly Interface: The app is designed to be simple, making it easy for anyone to navigate.
- Free Version Available: Users can try TunnelBear for free, with a data limit of 500MB to 1.5GB per month.
- Transparent Practices: TunnelBear is known for its clear audit process, which helps build trust with users.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Easy to use for beginners | Limited features compared to others |
| Fun and engaging design | No multi-hop connections |
| Free version available | Data limit on free subscription |
Who It’s For
TunnelBear is ideal for:
- First-time VPN users who want a straightforward experience.
- People looking for a general-purpose VPN without complex settings.
- Users who want to test a VPN before committing to a paid plan.
TunnelBear is a great choice for anyone who wants to explore the world of VPNs without feeling overwhelmed.
9. Windscribe
Windscribe is a standout choice for beginners looking for a user-friendly VPN. It offers a great free plan that allows users to test its features without any cost.
Key Features
- Transparency: Windscribe is known for its clear communication about user data and privacy.
- Unlimited Connections: You can connect as many devices as you want at the same time.
- Server Locations: It has servers in 69 countries, providing a wide range of options for users.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Excellent free plan with 10GB monthly data | Average speed performance |
| Strong privacy policies | Streaming access can be inconsistent |
| User-friendly interface | No independent audits available |
Windscribe is perfect for those who want to keep their online activities private while enjoying a simple and effective VPN experience.
10. Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield is known for its incredibly fast speeds, making it a popular choice among users. With over 125 server locations, it offers a wide range of options for connecting to the internet securely.
Speed Performance
| Type of Speed | Regular Internet Speed | Hotspot Shield Speed |
| Download Speed | 250 Mbps | 242 Mbps |
| Upload Speed | 250 Mbps | 50 Mbps |
| Latency | 2 ms | 79 ms |
Key Features
- Fast Download Speeds: Hotspot Shield maintains high download speeds, losing only about 3% of regular speed.
- IP Leak Protection: This feature keeps your IP address safe from leaks, ensuring privacy.
- User-Friendly Apps: The apps are easy to use, making it simple for beginners to connect.
Hotspot Shield is a great option for streaming, especially for services like Netflix, due to its ability to bypass restrictions.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent speed for downloads
- Affordable pricing options
- Access to Netflix and other streaming services
Cons:
- Limited to five simultaneous connections
- Customer support can be slow to respond
- Based in the U.S., which may concern some users regarding privacy
In summary, Hotspot Shield is an excellent choice for beginners looking for a fast and reliable VPN service.
Final Thoughts on Choosing a VPN for Beginners
In conclusion, finding the right VPN for beginners is crucial for a smooth online experience. ExpressVPN stands out as the top choice due to its simple design and strong security features. It’s easy to use, making it perfect for those new to VPNs. Other options like CyberGhost and Surfshark also offer great user-friendly experiences, each with unique benefits. Remember, the best VPN for you depends on your needs, whether it’s streaming, security, or budget. With the right VPN, you can enjoy a safer and more private internet experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest way to start using a VPN?
Getting started with a VPN is super simple. Just download it, install it, and connect to a server. If you pick a user-friendly VPN, you’ll be good to go in no time.
What should I know before using a VPN?
VPNs are easy to use, but it’s wise to know what their features do. Avoid changing any advanced settings if you’re unsure. Always activate the kill switch if it’s not on by default, and make sure leak protection is enabled.
Which VPN is the simplest to use?
ExpressVPN is the top choice for beginners. It’s known for being straightforward and effective.
How do I choose the right VPN for me?
Think about what you need. Look for a VPN that’s easy to use, has good security, and offers fast speeds. Also, check how many devices you can connect at once.
Can I use a free VPN?
Yes, but be careful. Free VPNs can have limits on data and might not protect your privacy well. It’s often safer to use a paid service.
What features should I look for in a beginner VPN?
Look for an easy-to-use interface, strong security features, fast connection speeds, and good customer support.
