Best VPNs for the US in 2025

As of June 2025, NordVPN remains the best VPN for the US. It boasts 1,970+ US VPN servers, the fastest VPN speeds available, and the ability to unblock any streaming site, both in the US and worldwide.

A US VPN lets you get a US IP address, making it possible to unblock American streaming sites, websites, and services that are geo-blocked outside the country. Residents of North America can retain their access to services back home while traveling. Meanwhile, residents of other countries can unblock US streaming platforms and catch programming that is usually only available within the country.

I tested more than 20 of the top VPNs to see which performed best in North America – below, I share the results of my in-house tests to guide your choice of US VPN.

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Top 5 VPNs for US: shortlist

1. NordVPN

   Overall best VPN for US IP addresses
   9.8
2. Surfshark VPN

   Fast but inexpensive US VPN
   9.5
3. Proton VPN

   Freemium US VPN with powerful security
   8.6
4. TotalVPN

   Cheapest VPN for the US
   8.2
5. IPVanish

   US VPN with unlimited connections
   8.4

Why do I need a VPN for the US?

A VPN for the US is essential for online privacy and security, and for unblocking US content from anywhere. If you want to stream exclusive American content, use region-locked US websites, and securely browse on public Wi-Fi, you need a US VPN. You’ll be able to access websites like US Netflix, Peacock, and HBO without restrictions. You also benefit from powerful encryption for all your internet traffic, protecting your personal data from hackers, your internet provider, and third parties.

What’s more, if you’re traveling or regularly working in public spaces, a reliable US VPN protects your sensitive data from third parties. Public Wi-Fi hotspots are notoriously unsafe and exposed to cyber attacks, but with a VPN you’ll be able to work safely in hotels, airports, and coffee shops.

For the best security protections and access to North American content, I recommend NordVPN. It excelled in all of my in-house tests, delivering the fastest US VPN speeds available while unblocking any American site for HD and 4K streaming.

Best US VPNs in 2025: detailed list

1. NordVPN – overall best VPN for the US in 2025
2. Surfshark – cheapest US VPN with unlimited connections
3. Proton VPN – freemium VPN for the US with powerful security
4. TotalVPN – inexpensive VPN for the US with broad coverage
5. IPVanish – secure US VPN with unlimited simultaneous connections

My in-house tests with more than 20 of the top VPN services looked at speed, security, and the ability to unblock US websites like Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube TV+. Below, you’ll find a detailed writeup of each of the 5 best VPNs in 2025 if you need a US IP address.

Top 1. NordVPN – best VPN for the US overall

NordVPN remains the best US VPN for 2025 thanks to industry leading speeds, robust security features, and the ability to unblock any US streaming service or website. With download speeds up to 96% of my baseline connection speed, I easily streamed US content in 4K definition.

NordVPN server network

NordVPN boasts an impressive spread of over 1,970 US VPN servers. During in-house tests, I was easily able to unblock streaming platforms and find new gaming lobbies in the US despite not being located in the country. Thanks to such a vast network of North American servers, I never saw issues related to server congestion such as network slowdown or my server getting blocked. This is all part of NordVPN’s worldwide server network of 7400+ VPN servers in 118+ countries.

Streaming and torrenting with NordVPN

NordVPN reliably unblocked every US streaming service I attempted to access, including US Netflix, HBO, Hulu, YouTube TV+, and Disney+. NordVPN's SmartPlay servers were particularly useful in helping me unblock websites while retaining download speeds averaging 466 Mbps – the fastest US VPN speeds I’ve seen for HD and 4K streaming.

Security and privacy features

NordVPN uses powerful AES 256-bit encryption to protect your data, rendering it unreadable – even if you connect to an unsecured public Wi-Fi network in America. It also comes with a kill switch that functioned as expected during my tests. This cuts your connection to the internet if your VPN drops out, protecting your identity and location and stopping US websites from blocking you or your accounts. What’s more, NordVPN passed my IP and DNS leak tests, ensuring your true location won’t slip through the cracks.

Compatibility and price

NordVPN is compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux. During tests, I installed it on a Macbook Pro and Alienware PC, as well as an iPhone 15 Pro Max and Google Pixel 9. With support for up to 10 simultaneous connections, you can unblock US sites on all your devices at the same time. Prices start from $3.39/month, making it a highly affordable VPN for US travel.

For more information about this US VPN, read our detailed NordVPN review.

Top 2. Surfshark – cheapest US VPN with fast, unlimited connections

Surfshark is the best VPN for the US thanks to 600+ US VPN servers that make it easy to find a fast connection that isn’t overcrowded. It also boasts unlimited simultaneous connections while being the cheapest US VPN option too.

Surfshark server network

Surfshark’s worldwide server network includes 3200+ VPN servers in 100+ countries, with 600+ VPN servers in America alone. Thanks to such a broad fleet in the US, my tests with Surfshark resulted in powerful download speeds averaging around 465 Mbps. I saw these speeds remain consistent even when swapping between different servers spread across America.

Streaming and torrenting with Surfshark VPN

Surfshark offers dedicated P2P servers for torrenting, which allowed me to rapidly download the latest DLC for Elden Ring. Speaking of gaming, all of Surfshark’s servers are optimized for data-intensive activities and I could easily connect to North American lobbies with my new US IP address. This enabled me to play with friends who live in the NA region while I’m usually stuck on European servers.

Security and privacy features

Surfshark uses military-grade 256-bit encryption that prevents anybody from reading your data – even if they snoop on your network. As a result, Surfshark’s servers kept my connection secure while transiting through JFK airport and connecting to public Wi-Fi hotspots. It also has a built-in kill switch and IP and DNS leak protection. Finally, CleanWeb 2.0 – an ad blocker and malware-protection tool – hid all adverts while I was navigating tedious, ad-stuffed tourist information sites on my last visit to the US.

Compatibility and price

Surfshark can be used on Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux. I started my tests with the dedicated apps available from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store but expanded to running speed and streaming tests within the US on a Macbook and PC. Pricing is extremely competitive with Surfshark – subscriptions start from just $2.19/month with a 7-day free trial for mobile and a 30-day money-back guarantee on all platforms.

For more information about this US VPN, read our detailed Surfshark review.

Top 3. Proton VPN – freemium US VPN with strong security

Proton VPN is the best VPN for the US if you’re looking for a free option, though your server choice is limited to random server assignment. Still, it’s a way to get full security without cost – and with a premium upgrade, you can choose powerful and highly secure US connections.

Proton VPN server network

Proton VPN's network of 13000 worldwide servers in 122 countries includes over 400 10-Gbps servers in the United States. While testing the free version, I realized that I couldn’t specify a US connection and was at the mercy of a random server assignment. However, after a premium upgrade, I had access to the full network that produced download speeds averaging 428 Mbps.

Streaming and torrenting with Proton VPN

The paid version of Proton VPN reliably unblocked US streaming services during my tests, including Netflix US, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. However, I’d recommend avoiding the free version for streaming – it’s less successful at times, and it can suffer speed dips due to congestion. However, Proton VPN premium also offers dedicated P2P servers for anonymous torrenting in the US.

Security and privacy features

Proton VPN’s Secure Core servers route your data through countries with strict data-protection laws, using 256-bit encryption to ensure it is unreadable in transit. The strict no-logs policy was a relief given rising political tensions and unnerving travel stories emerging from the US. I was also impressed by the spread of security features available, including an always-on kill switch, leak protection, and NetShield – a malware, ad, and tracker blocker that stopped hundreds of attempts during my time in the US.

Compatibility and price

You can install and use Proton VPN on Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux – I tested each of these apps during my US visit, and they all worked flawlessly. Pricing starts at $3.59/month for the premium tier, though there's no free trial since there is a free subscription tier. However, you can get a 30-day money-back guarantee with a no-fuss refund process that I have tested and can vouch for.

For more information about this US VPN, read our detailed Proton VPN review.

Top 4. TotalVPN – US VPN with servers in numerous states

TotalVPN is the best VPN for the US thanks to its inexpensive subscription pricing and strong coverage of US servers. It also offers fast speeds and strong but basic security.

TotalVPN server network

TotalVPN has a much smaller server network than competing US VPNs; however, it makes up for that by offering servers in 11 different US states for targeted unblocking. For example, I was able to bypass the US porn ban by specifically connecting to a state that isn’t affected by the new safeguarding laws yet. While its fleet is small, TotalVPN’s speeds averaged around 423 Mbps during my in-house tests – more than sufficient for any activity.

Streaming and torrenting with TotalVPN

Streaming with TotalVPN is easy thanks to such high download speeds, and I saw no lag while connecting to US Netflix and streaming in both HD and 4K. However, bear in mind that the smaller server fleet could lead to speed dips during crowded peak hours. What’s more, while I could unblock the most popular sites like Netflix, Disney+, and Prime Video, I occasionally saw server blocks with HBO and Hulu.

Security and privacy features

TotalVPN has the security basics covered, including 256-bit AES encryption, leak protection, and a kill switch that will reliably protect your location even if it’s outside the US. However, as a budget VPN for North America, it lacks advanced security features like double VPN and obfuscation. I don’t see this as a deal breaker for US VPN usage, as internet restrictions are not particularly tough – it would be more of an issue in nations like China for example.

Compatibility and price

I tested TotalVPN on all of its compatible apps, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. While this US VPN lacks a free trial, I completed my testing within the 30-day money-back guarantee period and can confirm customer support is helpful and processed my refund quickly. Otherwise, pricing continues at just $1.59/month.

For more information about this US VPN, read our detailed TotalVPN review.

Top 5. IPVanish – US VPN with unlimited connections

IPVanish is the best US VPN if you need coverage for multiple devices, as it offers unlimited simultaneous connections and strong connection speeds. With over 1,000 US VPN servers, it's also the second-largest US fleet after NordVPN.

IPVanish server network

IPVanish runs over 1,000 US VPN servers in 20+ US cities, offering the second-largest US server fleet I identified during my tests. This is particularly impressive given that IPVanish’s entire fleet comprises around 2400+ servers. These US servers let me utilize the powerful WireGuard, IKEv2, and OpenVPN protocols for powerful connection speeds balanced with strong security. I saw download speeds averaging 459 Mbps, more than fast enough for any activity.

Streaming and torrenting with IPVanish

IPVanish can easily unblock popular Netflix US and Disney+ streaming libraries, though it admittedly can struggle with other sites. For example, HBO Max was blocked at the time of writing – likely due to the smaller server fleet than competitors, which can result in some servers being blocked from time to time. Fortunately, it wins back some points for supporting unlimited P2P traffic on all of its servers in the US and worldwide.

Security and privacy features

IPVanish uses AES-256 encryption coupled with a strict no-logs policy to protect all your data while connected to a US server. It also offers a built-in kill switch and DNS and IPv6 leak protection, though it lacks advanced features like ad-blocking and Secure Core routing as seen with other leading US VPNs. However, if you need an inexpensive and unlimited VPN, I think the tradeoff could be worthwhile.

Compatibility and price

Like other US VPNs, IPVanish is compatible with major desktop operating systems Windows and macOS, as well as iOS and Android. Pricing starts from $2.19/month, though I recommend following in my footsteps and starting with a 7-day free trial on mobile. After that, you can use the 30-day money-back guarantee to extend your risk-free period.

For more information about this US VPN, read our detailed IPVanish review.

Best US VPNs compared

How I tested and selected best VPNs for the US in June 2025

To find the best VPNs for the US, I carried out hands-on testing with each service to assess performance, privacy and security features, streaming speeds, and unblocking power. I tested each VPN over several days using a consistent testing setup to ensure fair results:

• Servers (30% weighting): I checked and counted each VPN’s US server roster, looking for strong and broad US state coverage, and special P2P and streaming servers. More US servers usually means better speeds and a greater likelihood of unblocking.
• Speed (25% weighting): I tested the download and upload speeds using Ookla Speedtest with and without the VPN connected. I also checked for check and speed drops on nearby and long-distance servers to measure consistency and gain an average.
• Security and privacy (15% weighting): I ensured that each VPN didn’t suffer from DNS, IP, and WebRTC leaks using ipleak.net and DNSLeakTest.com, while also checking for features like a kill switch, no-logs policy, and advanced options like obfuscation.
• Unblocking power (20% weighting): I tested every VPN against the most popular streaming platforms like US Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ to see whether they could bypass regional restrictions without being blocked.
• Ease of use (10% weighting): Finally, I evaluated each VPN’s desktop and mobile apps for user-friendliness, ease of navigation, and extra features like split tunneling or ad-blocking.

After extensive testing in June 2025, NordVPN proved the best VPN for the US, closely followed by Surfshark and then Proton VPN. But whichever recommended VPN you choose, you’ll be able to get a US IP address with ease.

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Is a US VPN legal to use?

Yes, using a VPN in the US is legal – the United States doesn’t ban or impose any restrictions on the use of VPNs for everyday internet access. Of course, using a VPN for illegal activities does not make them legal, nor does it guarantee you complete anonymity from the authorities if you commit crimes. For example, downloading pirated content could still lead to legal trouble. However, stay on the right side of the law and you’ll enjoy total anonymity and protection for your personal data.

US VPN not working: step-by-step fix

In tests with each of the recommended VPNs above, I never failed to establish a secure US VPN connection. Any problems with your VPN not working are likely to be a configuration issue or some other conflict – so, don’t worry and follow the steps below:

1. Connect to a different US server in case your current server was blacklisted.
2. Clear your browser’s cache and cookies to remove old location data.
3. Update your VPN app to the latest version if one is available.
4. Change to a different VPN protocol – WireGuard and OpenVPN are usually best.
5. Disable location services if you’re on mobile, as it could give your location away.
6. Restart your device and try to reconnect.

If none of these work, contact your VPN’s support — most offer 24/7 live chat assistance, and in my experience, all of these premium VPNs offer excellent, knowledgeable, and responsive staff. With NordVPN, I always saw replies within a couple of minutes.

NordVPN: best US VPN with straightforward setup

Can I use a free VPN for the US?

Yes, you can find a free VPN for the US, however, they typically come with drawbacks. For example, they have less server availability and you’ll usually experience slow speeds during peak hours. Some free US VPNs will also track your data and may even sell it to third-party marketing companies. Then there’s the risk of being detected for VPN usage since most free VPNs lack the same kind of robust security features and leak protection as premium VPNs.

Proton VPN is an excellent free VPN that offers servers in the US with unlimited data and fast speeds. However, you can’t specify which server you’d like to connect to so it can be hard to secure a US connection when you need it. As a result, I recommend a VPN free trial coupled with a money-back guarantee, giving you more than a month’s free usage. NordVPN is the best US VPN and has a 7-day free trial on Android plus a 30-day refund guarantee.

Conclusion

You need a US VPN to bypass restrictions on the most popular streaming services, such as US Netflix, Hulu, and HBO. This isn’t just for people outside the country trying to stream American content – residents need to use a US VPN to remain connected to these and other key services while abroad, such as banking and social media. What’s more, a reliable US VPN protects your data on unsecured public Wi-Fi networks and prevents any third parties from tracking what you do online.

As of June 2025, NordVPN is the best US VPN with more than 1,970 US servers and the fastest verified speeds resulting from my comprehensive test circuit. It’s capable of unblocking all major US streaming services, while its advanced security features ensure you’re completely safe from tracking and malware.

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FAQ

How can I get a US VPN?

To get a US VPN and IP address, subscribe to a reliable VPN service with servers in the United States. Next, download and install the VPN software on your preferred device(s). Finally, connect to a server in North America and enjoy unblocking any US website without restrictions. I recommend NordVPN, which offers 1,970+ US VPN servers to help avoid congestion and get the fastest VPN speeds.

What is the best VPN for the US?

NordVPN is the best VPN for the US, with 1,970+ VPN servers in the United States and the fastest VPN speeds available based on Ookla speed test results. Servers and speeds aside, it also offers the most robust protections against the dangers of public Wi-Fi hotspots. With strong anti-tracking features, it’s also a wise choice in the current US climate. Surfshark was a strong secondary VPN for the US, while Proton VPN came in third during my tests.

Question

Yes, Proton VPN offers a free tier with US servers that produced high speeds during my in-house tests. The caveat though is that you can’t select which server you want to connect to – instead, you’re assigned one at random. Instead, I recommend leveraging a VPN free trial and 30-day money-back guarantee to enjoy over a month of risk-free usage. NordVPN supports a 7-day Android free trial and a 30-day refund guarantee on all platforms.

Can I use a VPN to watch US streaming services abroad?

Yes, you can use a VPN to unblock US streaming services abroad, including Netflix US, Hulu, Peacock, Sling TV, YouTube TV, and more. Simply download a reliable US VPN, connect to a VPN server in the United States, then open a new browser session and head to the website you want to unblock. In my in-house tests, NordVPN offered the most reliable unblocking potential and speeds fast enough to stream in HD and 4K.