NordVPN is one of the most widely used VPNs, and for most users, it ticks all the boxes. This makes it my top pick overall in 2026 as the best VPN on the market today. 

Why we like it: NordVPN is secure, fast, suitable for streaming, and has all the features you'll likely need. I found it to be one of the fastest VPNs with the most consistent speed measurements and rapid initial server connectivity. 

While it's worth noting that rival ExpressVPN is often faster, especially on long-distance servers, in my experience, NordVPN speeds and connections tend to be more consistent overall, and I rarely encounter IP-related blocks or excessive CAPTCHA challenges. 

NordVPN is fine for basic use but offers many features beyond a mere VPN tunnel. For example, it supports peer-to-peer (P2P) sharing and an optional second layer of encryption via Double VPN. This allows you to set up a dedicated IP address to run a VPN that also acts as a server. 

In my tests with Netflix, NordVPN emerged as a top VPN for streaming content with a high success rate in accessing geo-blocked content. When set up with the Privacy Hero 2 router, it also excelled in accessing streaming services worldwide. 

Last year, the company launched NordWhisper. The new protocol that allows users to connect to VPN servers from networks that typically limit traditional VPN traffic and enforce restrictive network policies. NordVPN also recently overhauled its desktop apps. 

NordVPN's kill switch activates if your connection suddenly drops, protecting your connection and data. There's also a handy pause function if you need to access a local website or service and revert to your original IP address. 

Review: NordVPN

Who it's for: Those who want the best overall VPN around. It's a solid, fast VPN to use across different devices, and for a relatively affordable price. NordVPN is compatible with all major platforms and provides a server network of 135 countries. It also allows you to connect 10 devices simultaneously under one account and is excellent for streaming.

Who should look elsewhere: NordVPN will suit most users' needs, but if you prioritize speed on faraway servers, ExpressVPN might be the right alternative.

You can pick between three types of plans with two-year, one-year, or one-month contract terms. Your choice depends on whether you want advanced features such as a password manager, data breach scanner, cloud storage, or file encryption.

Prices start at $3.09 per month on a two-year plan or $5 per month for a one-year subscription. Alternatively, you can try NordVPN for a month and take advantage of its 30-day money-back guarantee. 

NordVPN features: Simultaneous connections: 10 | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, tvOS, and routers | Countries: 137 | Kill switch: Yes | Logging: Email address and billing information only | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days on Android | Trustpilot rating: 4.2 | Google Play rating: 4.6 | App Store rating: 4.7