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Enhance your online security and privacy, and enjoy greater streaming freedom, with a high-quality VPN.

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Top UK VPN providers

Take a look at our top picks for VPN deals currently on the market.

1

Nord VPN

One of the most trusted VPNs worldwide, with fast speeds, robust security features, and excellent streaming support.

  • 6,500+ servers worldwide, including UK
  • Strict no-logs policy, independently audited
  • Works with a range of streaming services
  • Easy apps for Windows, macOS, iOS and Android
From £2.39 a month
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2

Surfshark

A great value VPN with unlimited device connections, strong privacy protections, and consistently reliable performance.

  • Unlimited devices on one subscription
  • Audited no-logs policy for peace of mind
  • Fast WireGuard protocol for smooth streaming
  • Extras include CleanWeb ad-blocking and MultiHop
From £1.69
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3

ExpressVPN

Premium VPN with excellent ease-of-use, strong security audits, and reliable access to global streaming platforms.

  • TrustedServer tech with RAM-only servers
  • Works in restrictive regions like China
  • Simple, polished apps on all platforms
  • Independently audited no-logs policy
From £5.39
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4

CyberGhost VPN

User-friendly VPN with a huge server network and streaming-optimised servers for effortless entertainment access.

  • 11,000+ servers across 100+ locations
  • Specialised servers for popular streaming services
  • Transparent, audited no-logs policy
  • 7 device connections on one account
From £1.92
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5

Norton Secure VPN

A simple VPN solution from a trusted cybersecurity brand, ideal for everyday browsing and basic online privacy.

  • Part of Norton’s wider security suite
  • Easy set-up and beginner-friendly apps
  • Fast speeds with WireGuard protocol
  • 60-day money-back guarantee
From £2.50
Find out more

VPN FAQs

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is an online service that creates a secure tunnel between your device and the internet. When you connect, your real IP address is hidden and replaced with the IP address of the VPN server. This makes your online activity private, harder to track, and allows you to appear as if you’re browsing from another country. For most users in the UK, VPNs are used to protect personal data, keep browsing habits private, and unlock access to streaming content that may otherwise be blocked.

VPNs are 100% legal to use in the UK. They are legitimate security tools used by individuals and businesses alike. Using one is no different to locking your front door - it’s about keeping your information safe. The only time a VPN becomes illegal is if it’s used to commit unlawful activity, such as downloading copyrighted content without permission. As long as you use your VPN responsibly, there are no restrictions on installing or using one in the UK.

Any VPN can slightly reduce your connection speed because your traffic is being encrypted and rerouted through a secure server. However, modern providers use lightweight, efficient protocols like WireGuard, NordLynx, or ExpressVPN’s Lightway, which keep speeds impressively high. For day-to-day browsing, video calls, and even streaming in 4K, you’ll barely notice the difference with a quality VPN. In fact, some users even report faster streaming or gaming performance, because ISPs can no longer throttle their traffic.

Free VPNs exist, but they often come with serious limitations. Most restrict the amount of data you can use per month, cap speeds, or limit you to just a handful of servers. More worryingly, some free VPNs have been caught logging and selling user data to advertisers, which defeats the purpose of having a VPN in the first place. Paid VPNs are inexpensive, and the providers we recommend offer 30-day money-back guarantees, so you can test them risk-free.

The cost of a VPN depends on the plan length. Monthly rolling subscriptions with no contract are usually £9–£12, but long-term deals are much cheaper, often between £2–£4 per month. Providers like NordVPN, Surfshark, and CyberGhost regularly run discounts of up to 80%, sometimes adding extra free months. For the price of a takeaway coffee each month, you can secure every device in your household.

Compare VPN offers with SwitchGenius

What does a VPN do?

A VPN protects your online identity by masking your real location and encrypting your internet traffic. This prevents hackers, advertisers, or even your internet service provider from monitoring what you do online. For UK users, one of the biggest benefits is streaming – VPNs let you watch some inaccessible streaming service from home, or access UK services when you’re abroad. Businesses use VPNs to safeguard employees working remotely, and everyday people use them to avoid being tracked while browsing.

A shield with VPN written on it, in between a padlock and a globe.

Why do people use VPNs?

People choose VPNs for different reasons:

  • Privacy: VPNs keep your internet activity private, giving you peace of mind when shopping, banking, or simply browsing.
  • Security: On unsecured Wi-Fi networks in airports, cafes, or hotels, VPNs prevent hackers from intercepting sensitive information.
  • Streaming & entertainment: VPNs can often help unlock geo-blocked libraries on a range of platforms.
  • Avoiding restrictions: If you’re travelling in countries with heavy internet censorship, a VPN can give you unrestricted access to the sites and apps you know and love.

How does SwitchGenius choose the best VPNs?

Not all VPNs are created equal, which is why we prioritise providers that pass our strict criteria:

  • Independent audits: Proving their ‘no-logs’ promises are genuine.
  • Performance testing: Measuring speed, stability, and whether they can consistently unblock streaming services.
  • Reputation: Looking at how long they’ve been in business, transparency reports, and user feedback.
  • Ease of use: VPNs should be simple to set up and work across all major devices.

We only feature VPNs that perform strongly across all categories, so you can trust that they’re secure, reliable, and worth the money.

Benefits of a VPN

VPNs come with a long list of advantages:

  • Security: Protects you from hackers on public Wi-Fi.
  • Privacy: Prevents websites and advertisers from tracking your online behaviour.
  • Streaming freedom: Lets you watch shows and sports abroad.
  • Data protection: Keeps sensitive details like banking logins safe.
  • Multi-device coverage: One subscription can often cover all your gadgets.
  • Anti-throttling of bandwidth: VPNs can help prevent internet providers from slowing down certain activities like streaming or gaming.

Drawbacks of a VPN

Like any tool, VPNs aren’t perfect:

  • Some servers can cause slower speeds, especially if you connect to a faraway location.
  • Monthly rolling subscriptions can be pricey compared to long-term deals.
  • Not every VPN can unblock every streaming service every time – platforms actively try to block VPN traffic.
  • Free VPNs may expose you to risks, including poor encryption or selling your data.

Are VPNs safe to use?

Yes, provided you pick a trusted provider. The VPNs we recommend have undergone third-party audits and use industry-standard encryption like AES-256 and secure tunnelling protocols. Avoid unknown or free VPN apps with poor reputations, as they may log your data or expose you to malware.

How do I set up a VPN?

Getting started is quick and easy:

  • Choose a VPN and sign up.
  • Download the app for your device (Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, smart TVs, even some routers).
  • Log in with your account details.
  • Select a server location and hit connect.

Within seconds, your traffic is encrypted and your IP address hidden.

How do I cancel a VPN?

Most VPNs make cancellation straightforward. Log in to your account dashboard on the provider’s website, go to the billing section, and turn off auto-renewal. If you’re still in your money-back guarantee window (usually 30 days, or 45 with CyberGhost), you can request a refund with no questions asked.

How much are VPNs in 2025?

Pricing is competitive. Most providers charge around £3 per month for a 2-year plan, which includes all features and apps. Shorter plans are more expensive, but the flexibility may suit some users. Watch for promotions around Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or Boxing Day, when VPN deals are at their lowest.

Do I need a contract for a VPN?

VPNs don’t require contracts in the traditional sense. Instead, you choose a subscription length: monthly, 6 months, 1 year, or 2 years. You can cancel at any time. The longer the plan, the bigger the discount.

How to get the best VPN deal

VPNs are a small investment that deliver big benefits in privacy, security, and entertainment. To get the best value, choose a long-term plan from a trusted provider, look for independent audits, and check refund policies so you can test risk-free. At SwitchGenius, we compare the most reliable VPNs in the UK, highlight exclusive deals, and help you pick the service that matches your needs – whether that’s streaming, browsing securely, or keeping your data private.

Top 5 VPNs – Overviews

What is NordVPN and is it any good?

NordVPN is a widely respected name in the industry. It offers over 6,500 servers worldwide, has been independently audited to prove its no-logs policy, and uses cutting-edge features like Threat Protection to block malware. Its speeds are excellent thanks to the NordLynx protocol, and it works reliably with Netflix, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer.

What is Surfshark and is it any good?

Surfshark is a newer but hugely popular VPN that lets you connect unlimited devices under one subscription – perfect for families. It’s budget-friendly, with strong performance, CleanWeb ad-blocking, and MultiHop for advanced privacy. Streaming support is excellent, and regular audits back up its no-logs claims.

What is ExpressVPN and is it any good?

ExpressVPN is a premium choice, known for ease of use and reliability, but can be considered pricey by some. It runs on TrustedServer technology (RAM-only servers) to guarantee no data can be stored long-term. It’s consistently one of the best VPNs for bypassing restrictions in countries like China, and it works seamlessly with streaming services. While more expensive, it’s ideal for users who want the simplest, most polished experience.

What is CyberGhost VPN and is it any good?

CyberGhost has one of the largest server networks globally, with 11,000+ servers across 100 countries. It offers specialised servers designed for streaming Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Prime Video. It’s beginner-friendly, competitively priced, and includes a generous 45-day money-back guarantee. Speeds aren’t always the fastest over long distances, but for UK and European users, it performs well.

What is Norton Secure VPN and is it any good?

Norton Secure VPN is part of Norton’s wider cybersecurity suite, making it ideal for those already using Norton products. It’s easy to install, works well for general browsing, and comes with a 60-day money-back guarantee. However, it lacks advanced features like split tunnelling on all platforms and isn’t always reliable for streaming compared with specialist VPN providers.