The 8 best VPNs to use in August 2026

There was a time when VPNs were mostly seen as tools for people who cared deeply about online privacy, or, more controversially, for those looking to get around restrictions on what they could access online. For most people, they were something of a niche product, more likely to be discussed in tech forums than used as part of everyday internet browsing. That has changed. VPNs have become far more mainstream as concerns around online privacy have grown and people have become more aware of how much information they share simply by being online.

Today, a VPN can serve several different purposes, from adding an extra layer of privacy on public networks to accessing services while travelling or connecting through servers in different locations. At the same time, the VPN market has become crowded, with providers offering different combinations of privacy features, connection speeds, server networks and pricing. Therefore, to help users navigate the market, here are the top 8 VPNs everyone should know about in August 2026.

1. NordVPN

NordVPN is a VPN service that is all about speed, recording an average speed loss of just 3% and making it particularly useful for gamers, sharing files, or simply streaming. The service uses its NordLynx protocol to maintain fast connections and has more than 7,400 servers spread across 118 countries. NordVPN supports up to 10 simultaneous connections and has apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Apple TV, Android TV and Fire TV.

Privacy is another big part of the service. NordVPN operates under Panama’s jurisdiction and has a strict no-logs policy that is checked through regular third-party audits. Alongside standard features such as a kill switch and split tunnelling, users can also choose from options such as double VPN, Onion Over VPN and NordWhisper, which is designed to make VPN use harder to detect. The service has also introduced post-quantum protection across its apps. This, along with its ability to access a wide range of streaming services, makes it particularly useful for users who are looking for VPNs that offer speed and privacy in equal measure

2. Surfshark

Surfshark is another fast VPN that offers a wide range of features at a fraction of the cost compared to some of the higher-end providers.  It recorded an average speed loss of 21% in recent tests and has more than 4,500 servers across 100 countries, helping users maintain stable connections across a wide range of locations. Surfshark also allows unlimited simultaneous connections and has apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Apple TV, Android TV and Fire TV.

Privacy is another strong point for the service. Surfshark operates under the Netherlands’ jurisdiction and has a strict no-logs policy that has been checked through third-party audits. Alongside standard features such as a kill switch and split tunnelling, users can also choose options such as Dynamic Multihop, which routes traffic through two VPN servers, and Rotating IP, which periodically changes the user’s IP address. Surfshark also offers features such as Alternative ID and post-quantum protection, while its ability to access a wide range of streaming services makes it a versatile option for users looking for a balance of speed, privacy and features.

3. Proton VPN

Proton VPN is an extremely reliable VPN that doesn’t require users to have a subscription to access features, making it a favourite. Its free plan offers unlimited data without ads or selling user data, while still providing solid speeds and strong privacy features. The paid plan adds access to a much larger server network and is also a good choice for streaming, with the service able to unblock platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer and Disney Plus.  

The service uses open-source apps, undergoes regular third-party audits and includes features such as Secure Core servers, Tor over VPN and its Stealth protocol, which is designed to disguise VPN traffic as regular web traffic.

4. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is one of the simpler VPNs on the market, but it doesn’t compromise on the privacy features it offers users. The VPN has more than 3,000 servers across 105 countries and recorded an average speed loss of 18% in recent tests, making it suitable for streaming content, gaming, and video calls. It also works across Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux and several TV platforms, and can accommodate up to 10 device connections at once.

The service is based in the British Virgin Islands and has undergone 23 independent audits since 2018, including a 2025 KPMG audit of its no-logs policy and TrustedServer technology. It also offers features such as Shuffle IP and post-quantum protection. For streaming, ExpressVPN was able to access services including Netflix, Disney Plus, Hulu and Amazon Prime Video in testing, while a 30-day money-back guarantee gives users the chance to try the service before committing.

5. Hotspot Shield

Hotspot Shield is a good fit for users who want a VPN that is easy to use without giving up much on speed or security. It uses AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, and protection against DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks. Its no-logs policy was also independently audited in 2023. The free plan makes it a more accessible option for everyday browsing, streaming, and downloading, although it comes with a 500 MB daily data limit before ads are required.

Speed is where Hotspot Shield really stands out. Its Hydra protocol helps keep download speeds close to a user’s regular connection, while also allowing the VPN to work on more restrictive networks. Torrenting is supported on both free and paid plans, and the premium version offers servers across 125 locations.

6. Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access is a straightforward VPN that puts ease of use at the forefront. Its apps are available across desktop, mobile, and streaming devices, with plenty of settings for users who want more control over how their connection works. PIA also has a strict no-logging policy that has been independently audited, while its open-source apps allow the code to be publicly inspected. With unlimited simultaneous connections, it can also be a practical choice for households with multiple devices.

Performance is another strong point, particularly for downloads. PIA keeps connections fast enough for everyday browsing and 4K streaming, while features such as its built-in MACE ad blocker and obfuscation add extra flexibility. It can also access Netflix libraries across multiple regions, making it useful for both privacy and streaming. Overall, PIA is a good option for users who want a VPN that is simple to navigate but still leaves room to customize the experience.

7. Mullvad

Mullvad puts privacy front and centre, while still keeping the service easy to use and affordable. Instead of asking for a username, password or personal information at sign-up, Mullvad provides users with a randomly generated account number. Its apps are also open-source, while features such as a kill switch, split tunneling and advanced privacy protections give users plenty of control over how their connection is secured. With pricing set at around $6 per month, regardless of how long the subscription is used, Mullvad is also refreshingly straightforward for users who want a budget-friendly option without long-term plans.

The service is also fast enough for everyday browsing, streaming, gaming and other data-heavy activities, although its smaller server network means there are fewer locations to choose from than with some larger VPN providers. Mullvad supports Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS and Android TV, along with browser extensions and router setups, and allows up to five simultaneous connections.

8. Windscribe

Windscribe has built a strong reputation around streaming, particularly when it comes to accessing different Netflix libraries. It supports regions including India, Japan, South Korea, the UK and the US, while also working with services such as Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer and Prime Video. That makes it a useful option for users who want a VPN primarily for watching content from different regions.

Its free plan is another reason Windscribe is worth considering. Although it comes with a monthly data limit, the free version still works with several streaming services rather than simply acting as a basic introduction to the paid service. Pro subscribers get unlimited data and access to more servers, along with features such as multi-hop connections and residential IP options. Unlimited simultaneous connections also mean one subscription can cover multiple devices at once.

Final thoughts 

A VPN can be a useful tool for improving online privacy, securing connections on public networks and accessing content while traveling. The right service will depend on what matters most to the user, whether that is speed, streaming, privacy, device support or price, so there is no single VPN that will suit everyone. Before installing a VPN, users should check that its use is permitted in their jurisdiction and do their own research to make sure the service is suitable for their needs. 

Disclaimer. Readers are encouraged to do their own research. Ambcrypto is not liable for any outcomes related to the use of information, products, or services mentioned. This content may include affiliate or partner links.