Quick Look: The Best VPNs for PC & Mac in 2026
In the fast-paced digital environment of 2026, securing your desktop computer is non-negotiable. Whether you’re on a Windows PC or a macOS device, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is your first line of defense against ISP snooping, cyber threats on public Wi-Fi, and frustrating geo-restrictions. But with a saturated market, which service truly delivers on its promises? After hundreds of hours of rigorous testing, we’ve compiled the definitive list.
If you’re short on time, here are our top picks for the best VPNs for PC and Mac users this year:
- ExpressVPN: Best Overall Performer. Unmatched speed, ironclad security, and supremely easy-to-use apps for both Windows and macOS.
- NordVPN: Best for Advanced Security Features. Offers a massive server network and a unique Threat Protection suite for an all-in-one security solution.
- Surfshark: Best Value for Money. Delivers premium features and unlimited device connections at an unbeatable price point.
- CyberGhost: Best for Beginners and Streamers. Features dedicated servers for streaming platforms and an incredibly intuitive interface.
- Private Internet Access (PIA): Best for Customization and Privacy. A favorite among power users for its open-source apps and highly configurable settings.
Every digital interaction—from banking and emailing to streaming and gaming—leaves a footprint. Without protection, this data is vulnerable to your Internet Service Provider (ISP), advertisers, and malicious actors. A VPN encrypts your entire internet connection, making your online activities invisible and secure. If you’re new to this technology, our detailed guide on what a VPN is and how it works provides an excellent starting point.
This guide will dive deep into what makes these services stand out, helping you find the perfect VPN to safeguard your digital life on your desktop computer.
How We Tested and Ranked the Top Desktop VPNs
To provide you with a trustworthy and accurate list, we don’t just look at marketing claims. Our ranking methodology is built on a foundation of hands-on, systematic testing across both Windows 11 and the latest macOS versions. Our process is transparent and designed to reflect real-world user experiences.
Here are the core criteria we evaluated for each VPN service:
- Performance & Speed: We conduct multiple speed tests on various servers (local, long-distance, and international) using a 1Gbps connection. We measure download speed, upload speed, and latency (ping) to find the VPNs that have the least impact on your base connection. This is critical for smooth browsing, 4K streaming, and competitive gaming.
- Security & Encryption: We scrutinize the security architecture of each VPN. This includes verifying AES-256 encryption, testing modern protocols like WireGuard and Lightway, and performing DNS and WebRTC leak tests to ensure your IP address is never exposed. We also prioritize services that have undergone independent third-party security audits.
- Privacy & Logging Policy: A VPN is only as good as its privacy policy. We thoroughly read the fine print to confirm a strict, audited no-logs policy. We also consider the provider’s jurisdiction, as countries outside the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance are preferable for maximum privacy.
- Desktop App Experience (PC & Mac): We install and use each application on both Windows and macOS. We assess ease of use, feature parity between the two platforms, and the reliability of essential features like the kill switch and split tunneling.
- Features & Versatility: We look beyond the basics. Do they offer specialized servers for streaming or P2P? What about advanced features like double VPN, obfuscated servers, or dedicated IPs? The more versatile a service, the higher it ranks.
- Customer Support & Value: We test the responsiveness and helpfulness of customer support (especially 24/7 live chat). Finally, we weigh all these factors against the subscription cost and the length of the money-back guarantee to determine the overall value.
In-Depth Reviews of the 10 Best VPNs for PC and Mac
After extensive analysis, here are the detailed reviews of the VPN services that excel on desktop platforms, offering the best blend of performance, security, and usability for 2026.
1. ExpressVPN: Best Overall for Performance and Simplicity
ExpressVPN consistently tops our charts, and for good reason. It offers a flawless experience on both PC and Mac, combining blazing-fast speeds with robust security in an app that anyone can use. Its proprietary Lightway protocol is a game-changer, providing superior performance without compromising on encryption.
PC Experience (Windows)
The Windows app is a model of simplicity and power. It connects in seconds, and the Smart Location feature intelligently picks the optimal server for you. The app includes a rock-solid kill switch (Network Lock), split tunneling, and DNS/IPv6 leak protection, all easily accessible from a clean, intuitive interface.
Mac Experience (macOS)
ExpressVPN provides one of the best Mac experiences on the market, with near-perfect feature parity with its Windows counterpart. The macOS app is lightweight, stable, and integrates seamlessly into the operating system. It offers Lightway, OpenVPN, and IKEv2 protocols, ensuring you have options for any network condition.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Server Network | 3,000+ servers in 105 countries |
| Protocols | Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
| Max Devices | 8 simultaneous connections |
| Logging Policy | Strict, independently audited no-logs |
| Based In | British Virgin Islands (Privacy-friendly) |
Performance and Security
In our speed tests, ExpressVPN was consistently the fastest, retaining over 90% of our baseline speeds on nearby servers. It’s more than capable of handling multiple 4K streams and lag-free gaming. Its security is top-tier, with RAM-only servers (TrustedServer technology) ensuring no data is ever written to a hard drive.
- Pros: Industry-leading speeds, intuitive apps for all platforms, excellent for unblocking streaming sites, strong privacy jurisdiction, 24/7 live chat support.
- Cons: More expensive than some competitors, fewer customization options for advanced users.
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2. NordVPN: Best for Advanced Security Features
NordVPN is a household name in cybersecurity, offering a feature-packed service that goes far beyond a simple VPN. Its desktop apps for PC and Mac are loaded with tools designed to protect you from a wide array of online threats, making it an excellent all-in-one security suite.
PC Experience (Windows)
The Windows app is feature-rich, presenting a world map interface alongside a standard server list. The standout feature is Threat Protection, which blocks malware, trackers, and intrusive ads even when the VPN is disconnected. You also get a reliable kill switch, Double VPN for extra encryption, and Onion Over VPN for Tor users.
Mac Experience (macOS)
NordVPN’s macOS app is available in two versions: one from the App Store (using IKEv2) and a more feature-complete version from their website (using OpenVPN). Both offer the lightning-fast NordLynx (WireGuard) protocol. The website version includes more features, like split tunneling, providing a powerful and secure experience for Mac users.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Server Network | 6,000+ servers in 61 countries |
| Protocols | NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
| Max Devices | 6 simultaneous connections |
| Logging Policy | Strict, independently audited no-logs |
| Based In | Panama (Privacy-friendly) |
Performance and Security
Thanks to its NordLynx protocol, NordVPN is one of the fastest VPNs we’ve tested, making it ideal for high-bandwidth activities. Its security suite is comprehensive, offering specialized P2P servers, obfuscated servers to bypass firewalls, and regular third-party audits to verify its no-logs claims.
- Pros: Huge server network, advanced Threat Protection feature, exceptional speeds with NordLynx, audited no-logs policy, dedicated IP option.
- Cons: Map interface can feel clunky on smaller screens, some advanced features can be overwhelming for beginners.
Secure Your Desktop with NordVPN →
3. Surfshark: Best Value for Money
Surfshark has made a name for itself by offering premium features at a budget-friendly price. Its biggest selling point is the ability to connect an unlimited number of devices on a single subscription, making it the perfect choice for individuals with multiple gadgets or for entire households.
PC Experience (Windows)
The Surfshark Windows client is clean, modern, and packed with features. It includes CleanWeb (ad and malware blocker), a kill switch, split tunneling (Bypasser), and MultiHop (Double VPN). It also offers a unique IP Rotator feature that periodically changes your IP address without disconnecting you from the VPN.
Mac Experience (macOS)
The macOS app is sleek and mirrors the look and feel of the Windows version. It provides WireGuard, IKEv2, and OpenVPN protocols, ensuring a fast and stable connection. While it lacks the Bypasser feature found on Windows, it still delivers a powerful and user-friendly experience for Mac users.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Server Network | 3,200+ servers in 100 countries |
| Protocols | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
| Max Devices | Unlimited |
| Logging Policy | Strict, independently audited no-logs |
| Based In | Netherlands |
Performance and Security
Surfshark’s performance is impressive, especially with the WireGuard protocol enabled. It easily handles streaming, torrenting, and everyday browsing. The service also offers a Camouflage Mode (obfuscation) to hide your VPN usage from your ISP and has moved its entire infrastructure to RAM-only servers.
- Pros: Unlimited simultaneous connections, very affordable long-term plans, great for unblocking streaming services, user-friendly apps, solid security features.
- Cons: Some long-distance server speeds can be inconsistent, Mac app has slightly fewer features than Windows.
Get Unlimited Protection with Surfshark →
Comparison Table: PC & Mac VPNs Head-to-Head
To help you visualize the differences between our top contenders, here is a direct comparison of their key attributes for desktop users.
| VPN Provider | Speed Score (out of 10) | Key Security Feature | macOS App Rating | Windows App Rating | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ExpressVPN | 9.8 | Lightway Protocol | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | $6.67/mo |
| NordVPN | 9.6 | Threat Protection Suite | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | $3.99/mo |
| Surfshark | 9.2 | Unlimited Connections | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | $2.49/mo |
| CyberGhost | 8.9 | Dedicated Streaming Servers | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | $2.19/mo |
| Private Internet Access | 9.0 | Open-Source Apps | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | $2.11/mo |
Choosing the Right VPN for Your Desktop: A Buyer’s Guide
The “best” VPN for you depends entirely on your primary use case. While our top picks are excellent all-rounders, certain features make some better suited for specific tasks.
For Streaming Content
If your main goal is to unblock streaming libraries from around the world on Netflix, BBC iPlayer, or Hulu, you need a VPN that consistently bypasses geo-blocks. Look for services with large, regularly updated server networks.
Top choices: ExpressVPN, Surfshark, and CyberGhost (with its dedicated streaming servers) are our go-to recommendations for buffer-free 4K streaming.
For Gaming
PC and Mac gamers need a VPN that minimizes latency (ping) to avoid lag. A stable connection and fast speeds are paramount. Look for a VPN with a large global server network so you can always find a server close to your game’s host.
Top choices: ExpressVPN and NordVPN consistently delivered the lowest ping times in our tests, making them ideal for competitive online gaming and protecting you from potential DDoS attacks.
For Ultimate Privacy and Torrenting
For users who prioritize anonymity, especially for P2P file-sharing, the focus should be on a VPN’s privacy policy and security features. A strict, audited no-logs policy, a reliable kill switch, and a privacy-friendly jurisdiction are essential.
Top choices: Private Internet Access (PIA) is a long-standing favorite in the privacy community due to its proven no-logs history. NordVPN’s P2P-optimized servers and ExpressVPN’s BVI jurisdiction also make them excellent choices.
Do You Really Need a VPN on Your PC or Mac in 2026?
In a word: yes. The need for a desktop VPN is more critical now than ever before. Here’s why:
- Public Wi-Fi Security: When you connect your laptop to Wi-Fi at a cafe, airport, or hotel, you’re on an unsecured network. A VPN encrypts your data, making it unreadable to anyone snooping on the same network.
- Stop ISP Tracking: Your Internet Service Provider can see every website you visit. In many countries, they are legally allowed to log and even sell this data. A VPN hides your activity from your ISP.
- Bypass Geo-Restrictions: Unlock a world of content. A VPN lets you change your virtual location to access streaming services, news sites, and online stores that are otherwise blocked in your region.
- Prevent Throttling: Some ISPs intentionally slow down (throttle) your connection during high-bandwidth activities like streaming or gaming. A VPN encrypts your traffic, making it impossible for your ISP to see what you’re doing and throttle you based on activity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best VPN for Windows 11?
ExpressVPN is our top recommendation for Windows 11. Its app is perfectly optimized for the OS, offering incredible speeds with its Lightway protocol, a reliable kill switch, and user-friendly split tunneling. NordVPN is a close second with its powerful Threat Protection feature.
What is the best VPN for the latest macOS?
For macOS, ExpressVPN again takes the lead due to its feature-rich and highly stable application that feels native to the Mac ecosystem. Surfshark is an excellent budget-friendly alternative that offers a sleek app and unlimited connections, perfect for users with a MacBook, iMac, and iPhone.
Can I use a free VPN on my PC or Mac?
We strongly advise against using free VPNs. These services often have significant limitations, such as slow speeds, data caps, and few server locations. More alarmingly, many free VPNs make money by logging and selling your browsing data to third parties, or even injecting ads and malware into your device. A reputable, paid VPN is a small investment in your online privacy and security.
Does a VPN slow down my internet connection on a desktop?
Because a VPN adds an encryption step and routes your traffic through a remote server, a small speed reduction is inevitable. However, with premium VPNs like the ones on this list, the impact is often negligible. Using modern protocols like WireGuard or Lightway, you may not even notice a difference in your day-to-day browsing, streaming, or gaming.
How do I set up a VPN on my PC or Mac?
Setting up a VPN is incredibly simple. Just follow these steps:
- Choose a VPN provider from our list and subscribe to a plan.
- Download the dedicated app for your Windows PC or Mac from the provider’s official website.
- Install the application and log in with your credentials.
- Click the “Connect” button to automatically connect to the best server, or choose a specific country from the server list.
That’s it! Your entire desktop connection is now secure and encrypted.
The Final Verdict: Which VPN Should You Choose?
Securing your PC or Mac is a critical step in protecting your digital life, and a high-quality VPN is the most effective tool for the job. While any of the VPNs on this list will provide a significant boost to your online privacy and freedom, our 2026 recommendations cater to different needs.
- For the best overall experience with unmatched speed, security, and ease of use on both PC and Mac, ExpressVPN is the clear winner.
- For users seeking an all-in-one security suite with advanced features like malware and ad blocking, NordVPN is the top choice.
- For those on a budget or with many devices to protect, Surfshark offers unbeatable value with its unlimited connections and premium feature set.
Ultimately, the right choice is the one that aligns with your priorities. By investing in one of these top-tier services, you are taking a proactive step towards a safer, more open, and more private internet experience on your desktop computer.
