Let’s be honest, using a VPN in the U.S. isn’t just about hiding your IP or unlocking Netflix anymore. It’s about dealing with mass surveillance, avoiding creepy data brokers, and fighting back against location-based streaming blackouts, all while trying to keep up with decent internet speeds.
If you’re here, chances are you want something that’s fast, rock-solid secure, and doesn’t choke when you try to binge Netflix, Hulu, or live sports. I’ve tested dozens of VPNs some were impressive, others were hot garbage and I’m here to break it all down for you. No fluff, no generic advice. Just real talk, real tests, and recommendations that actually work.
Whether you’re streaming in 4K, gaming, torrenting, or just want to stop your ISP from selling your browsing history to advertisers – this guide is built for you.
Why Choosing a VPN for the U.S. Isn’t Easy
Using a VPN in the U.S. comes with some unique challenges:
- Massive government surveillance thanks to the Five Eyes alliance (and yes, the U.S. is a founding member).
- Aggressive geo-blocking by streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Max, DAZN, Verizon and even sports apps.
- Data-hungry ISPs that log and sell your data to third parties.
So yeah – picking the right VPN here isn’t just about speed. It’s about trust, privacy, performance, and consistency.
My Top Picks: TL;DR Version
Here’s the quick and dirty rundown of the best VPNs for the U.S. – based on speed tests, privacy audits, streaming support, and real-world usability.
| VPN | Best For | Price (2yr plan) | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | Best Overall | $3.09/month | Try NordVPN |
| Surfshark | Best Value / Unlimited Devices | $1.99/month | Try Surfshark |
| Proton VPN | Best for Privacy | $4.49/month | Try Proton VPN |
| ExpressVPN | Best for Ease of Use | $3.49/month | Try ExpressVPN |
| PIA | Best for Advanced Users | $2.03/month | Try PIA VPN |
Now let’s break them all down, one by one.
1. NordVPN – My Top Pick for the U.S.
If I could only recommend one VPN to a friend who lives in the States or just wants full access to American digital life – NordVPN is the one. Here’s why:
Performance That Actually Delivers
NordVPN’s custom-built NordLynx protocol is blazing fast. I’ve tested it on gigabit internet and regularly hit 950+ Mbps – which is insane for a VPN. No stutters while streaming, no lag while gaming, just smooth performance.
They also have 2161+ servers across 21 U.S. cities, which means you’re never far from a solid connection.
👉 Try NordVPN with 30-Day Guarantee
Best for Streaming (Seriously)
NordVPN unblocks Netflix US, Hulu, Disney+, Prime Video and more – with barely any hiccups. It’s also my go-to for NFL Game Pass, YouTube TV, and HBO Max. It just works.
Built Like a Tank (for Privacy)
Based in Panama, outside of any data-sharing alliances (Five/Nine/14 Eyes), NordVPN’s zero-logs policy is legit. It’s been independently audited — twice — and they offer advanced privacy tools like:
- Threat Protection Pro (blocks ads, malware, trackers)
- Double VPN
- Onion Over VPN
- Post-quantum encryption
Pricing & Value NordVPN
Their two-year plan is around $3.09/month, and you can connect up to 10 devices at once. That’s more than enough for most households.
2. Surfshark – The Underdog That Slaps Premium VPNs
If you told me a couple years ago that I’d be recommending a dirt-cheap VPN over some of the $15/month giants, I would’ve laughed. But here we are. Surfshark is the real deal, especially if you’re on a budget or have a ton of devices to protect.
Crazy Fast (Like… Shockingly Fast)
Thanks to WireGuard and 10Gbps servers, Surfshark consistently hits over 900 Mbps in speed tests. I’ve streamed 4K content while syncing cloud backups in the background – it held up without breaking a sweat.
Even though they don’t publish exact server numbers in the U.S., I’ve never had trouble connecting, and they’ve got solid presence in all major regions.
Streaming? Check. All of It.
I tested it on Netflix US, Hulu, Disney+, Max, and Amazon Prime Video. Worked every time. Even better – it unlocked regional libraries other VPNs often miss.
If you want the American Netflix catalog while traveling, this VPN gets the job done without a fuss.
Secure and Feature-Packed
You get AES-256 encryption, Kill Switch, DNS leak protection, CleanWeb (blocks ads and trackers), and MultiHop(double VPN) – all in the base package.
Only downside? It’s based in the Netherlands, part of the Nine Eyes surveillance alliance. But they do have a strong no-logs policy – though no post-quantum encryption like NordVPN (yet).
Best Bang-for-Your-Buck VPN
With pricing starting at around $1.99/month for the two-year plan — plus unlimited device connections – it’s basically made for families, roommates, or just tech geeks like me with way too many gadgets.
3. Proton VPN – When Privacy Isn’t Optional
If you’re a journalist, activist, or just paranoid in the smartest way, then Proton VPN is hands down your best bet. This thing is built like a digital bunker.
Swiss-Made Privacy
They’re based in Switzerland – meaning they’re outside any surveillance alliance and protected by some of the world’s strongest privacy laws.
All apps are open-source, audited, and they offer Secure Core servers that route your traffic through ultra-safe countries before hitting the open web. It’s next-level.
👉 Try Proton VPN Free or Go Plus
Speed Used to Suck — Not Anymore
They introduced something called VPN Accelerator and now they’re shockingly fast. I was getting 940 Mbps on a gigabit line with Proton Plus. That’s faster than ExpressVPN in some cases.
Even their free plan includes U.S. servers, though without streaming access.
Netflix & Streaming Now Works
Previously, Proton VPN wasn’t the best for streaming. That’s changed. With a paid plan, I could stream Netflix US, Disney+, Prime, and even some international libraries. Solid reliability.
Pricing ProtonVPN
Proton VPN Plus starts at around $4.49/month, so it’s more expensive than Surfshark, but honestly – for what you get – it’s worth it. And the free plan has no data cap, which is rare these days.
4. ExpressVPN – The Apple of VPNs (In a Good Way)
If you’re new to VPNs and want something stupidly simple, fast, and “just works” without touching a single setting, go with ExpressVPN.
Lightway Protocol = Smooth Streaming
Their in-house Lightway protocol makes connections fast and stable – great for both streaming and gaming. In tests, I consistently got 800–900 Mbps on U.S. servers.
Best part? They have servers in all 50 U.S. states — ideal for sports blackouts, local news apps, or just needing a specific state IP.
So Easy Your Grandma Could Use It
The apps are slick and incredibly intuitive. One tap and you’re connected. No fiddling with settings unless you want to.
It’s also perfect for smart TVs, Fire Stick, and routers.
Serious Security, No Logs
They’re based in the British Virgin Islands (outside of the Five Eyes), use RAM-only servers (wipes data on reboot), and have undergone multiple independent audits to prove their no-logs claims.
Premium Price, Premium Product
At $3.49/month (on a long-term deal), it’s pricier than some, but you’re paying for polish, stability, and total peace of mind.
5. Private Internet Access (PIA) – Power Tools for Nerds Like Me
I’ve got a soft spot for PIA. It’s the VPN I always come back to when I want to geek out with settings and tweak things exactly how I want.
Customization Galore
Want to choose your encryption level? Tweak handshake protocols? Use split tunneling with a fine-tooth comb? PIA lets you go nuts.
Everything is open-source, and you can really dive deep into the setup.
Based in the U.S. — Yeah, That’s a Problem
PIA is based in America, which means it sits smack in the middle of the Five Eyes surveillance network. But the company’s zero-logs policy has been proven in court – not just claimed.
Still, if privacy is your top concern, this might not be your first pick.
Inconsistent Speeds
Performance varies. Sometimes I get over 900 Mbps, sometimes it dips to 500 or worse. It depends on the server and time of day. Not ideal, but the huge server network gives you options.
Good for Streaming, If You Know What You’re Doing
It unblocks Netflix, Hulu, and other U.S. content, but it takes a bit more trial and error than NordVPN or Surfshark. Not beginner-friendly, but great if you know the ropes.
Killer Price
For under $2.03/month, with unlimited connections, it’s a great pick for techies, budget hunters, or anyone who wants full control.
Price Breakdown – What You’re Really Paying
Let’s be real – VPN pricing is a mess. Every service throws “$1.99/month” in your face, but it’s almost always tied to a long-term plan billed upfront. So, I crunched the numbers and here’s the actual cost if you’re planning ahead.
| VPN | 1-Month Plan | Yearly (avg/mo) | 2-Year Plan (avg/mo) | Upfront Cost (2yr) | Money-Back Guarantee |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | $12.99 | $4.99 | $3.09 | $83.43 | 30 days |
| Surfshark | $15.45 | $3.19 | $1.99 | $53.73 | 30 days |
| Proton VPN | $9.99 | $4.99 | $4.49 | $107.76 | 30 days |
| ExpressVPN | $12.99 | $6.67 (via App) | $3.49 | $97.72 | 30 days |
| PIA | $11.99 | $3.33 (est.) | $2.03 (3-yr plan) | $79 (3 yrs) | 30 days |
These are average prices for the longest plans available, often with promo pricing. They change often, so always check the current offers.
So, Which VPN Should You Actually Get?
Let’s cut the crap and talk straight. Here’s what I recommend depending on what you actually care about.
You Want a VPN for Streaming Everything
If you’re here because Netflix, Hulu, or Disney+ geo-blocked you or your sports stream keeps saying “not available in your region” – go for:
- #1 Pick: NordVPN
Works flawlessly with Netflix US and dozens of libraries. Rarely flagged. Insane speeds. - Budget Beast: Surfshark
I’ve unblocked every major streaming service with it, and for under $2/month? That’s just rude (in a good way).
You Want Privacy, Period.
If the idea of your ISP selling your data or government surveillance makes your skin crawl:
- Top Privacy Pick: Proton VPN
Swiss-based. No logs. Open-source. Audited. Secure Core servers. Honestly the Fort Knox of VPNs. - Backup Option: NordVPN
Still super private. Based in Panama, with lots of advanced features for serious anonymity.
You’re a Power User or a Tech Geek
If you love fiddling with settings, want to pick your encryption algorithm, or plan to use a VPN on 12+ devices:
- Custom King: Private Internet Access
Massive server network. Every setting under the sun. Great price. But yeah, based in the U.S., so weigh that carefully.
You Have a Family or Tons of Devices
Most VPNs limit the number of connections, but not all:
- Go-To Pick: Surfshark
Unlimited devices. Period. One account = the whole family, tablets, phones, smart TVs, all covered. - Alt Option: PIA
Also offers unlimited connections. Works well for shared households or if you’re just “device-rich”.
You’re New to VPNs and Don’t Want to Deal With Tech Headaches
If you’re just starting out and want to click “connect” and be done:
- Best for Beginners: ExpressVPN
One-click setup. No learning curve. Works flawlessly across devices. Just don’t expect the lowest price.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a VPN isn’t just about one feature. It’s about balance – speed, privacy, streaming access, jurisdiction, device support, and price. No single VPN is perfect for everyone, but here’s my final take Best:
- Overall → NordVPN
- Value → Surfshark
- For Privacy → Proton VPN
- For Ease of Use → ExpressVPN
- Power Users → PIA
If you’re still not sure which one to go with, just ask yourself:
Do I want speed, privacy, or value?
Once you’ve got your answer – pick the VPN above that nails that priority and lock it in. Every single one of these has a 30-day money-back guarantee, so there’s zero risk.
FAQ
What’s the best VPN for streaming in the USA?
NordVPN is currently the most reliable VPN for streaming Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and other U.S. services. It’s fast, stable, and rarely gets blocked. If you’re on a budget, Surfshark is a killer alternative.
Is it legal to use a VPN in the United States?
Yep, using a VPN in the U.S. is totally legal. Just don’t use it for anything illegal a VPN doesn’t make you above the law.
Which VPN has the most servers in the USA?
Private Internet Access (PIA) has the largest U.S. server network, with locations in all 50 states. That gives you a ton of flexibility, especially for local content or avoiding blackout zones.
Can I use a VPN to watch sports blackouts in the U.S.?
Absolutely. A VPN lets you bypass regional restrictions, so you can stream NFL, NBA, MLB, or NHL games that might be blacked out in your area. Just connect to a server in a different state.
Which VPN is the most secure for American users?
Proton VPN takes the crown here. Based in Switzerland, it’s outside surveillance alliances and offers features like Secure Core routing and full open-source transparency.
Can I use a VPN on multiple devices at once?
Yes. All the VPNs listed support multiple connections. Surfshark and PIA even let you connect unlimited devices from a single account – perfect for families or power users.
What’s the best free VPN for the USA?
If you want a solid free option, Proton VPN Free is your best bet. It has no data limits and offers U.S. servers – just don’t expect streaming support without upgrading to a paid plan
