How We Test and Review the Best VPNs for 2025

Choosing the right VPN software is crucial for online privacy and security. That’s why we are committed to full transparency about our testing process and the methods we use to rank the best VPNs for 2025.

We evaluate VPNs based on five key factors, each weighted differently in our overall scoring system. While all factors matter, some carry more weight than others.

Our 5 Main Testing Criteria:

Security (35%) – The most important factor. We prioritize VPNs with military-grade encryption, multiple protocols (OpenVPN, L2TP, IKEv2, etc.), DNS leak protection, and a kill switch to ensure maximum security.
Number of Servers & Locations (25%) – A larger server network allows for faster speeds and better global accessibility. This factor significantly impacts performance and anonymity.
Features & Device Compatibility (20%) – We assess features like no-log policies, split tunneling, and cross-platform support (Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and more).
Value for Money (10%) – VPN pricing is generally competitive, so we focus on whether the features justify the cost.
User Reviews (10%) – While helpful, user reviews can be subjective. We analyze feedback from TrustPilot, the Google Play Store, and our own users to gauge customer satisfaction.

How We Determine Value for Money

To score features, compatibility, and pricing, we analyze offerings directly from each VPN provider. User reviews come from verified platforms and our internal data.

When evaluating pricing, we focus on flexibility and affordability. Services that lock users into expensive, inflexible plans don’t score well. In today’s subscription-based economy, consumers expect monthly payment options and the ability to switch providers if needed.

As of now, the average monthly fee for the top 10 VPNs we’ve reviewed is around $9.80, with some priced lower and others demanding a premium. Higher-priced VPNs must justify their cost with superior features and performance.

What Makes a VPN Subscription a Good Deal?

A VPN should offer:

At least five simultaneous device connections (industry standard).
Compatibility across multiple platforms (Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, etc.).
A single subscription covering all devices—without requiring extra payments for each.

A VPN that forces you to pay separately for each device or lacks flexible pricing isn’t providing good value.

By following these criteria, we ensure that our VPN recommendations meet the highest standards for security, speed, features, and affordability.

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