Best VPNs for PCs 2026
VPNs Optimised for Desktop PCs.
NordVPN
#1 VPN FOR PCs
Desktop PCs are the heavyweights of the computing world, often used for data-intensive tasks like gaming, video editing, and streaming. A great VPN for your PC must offer minimal CPU overhead to keep your system responsive while effectively blocking the extensive telemetry tracking found in Windows 11 and 10.
Top 5 VPNs for PC Ranked
1. NordVPN: The PC King
NordVPN dominates the PC category thanks to its NordLynx protocol, which is built on WireGuard for incredible speeds. For users, the Meshnet feature is a game-changer, allowing you to create secure private LAN networks for file sharing or gaming with friends over the internet without needing to port forward.
Why it works:
- Split Tunneling: Route only your web browser through the VPN while letting your games or work apps connect directly to maximise speed.
- DDoS Protection: Hide your IP address to prevent attacks on your connection during competitive online sessions.
- App Design: The Windows map interface is intuitive and looks great on high-resolution monitors.
2. CyberGhost: The User-Friendly Choice
CyberGhost simplifies the experience for PC users by categorising its servers. You can navigate directly to the "For Gaming" tab to find servers optimised for low latency, or the "For Downloading" tab for P2P traffic. It takes the guesswork out of server selection.
Why it works:
- Gaming Servers: Shows you the ping distance to each server before you connect, helping you pick the fastest one.
- Smart Rules: Can be set to automatically launch your favourite apps (like Steam or a browser) after a secure connection is established.
- Windows Integration: Runs quietly in the system tray with minimal interruptions.
3. Surfshark: The Multi-Device Friendly
If you have a multi-monitor setup or multiple PCs in your household, Surfshark provides immense value. With unlimited simultaneous connections, you can secure your main gaming rig, your streaming PC, and your family's laptops all on a single account.
Why it works:
- Bypasser: Essential for PC users who need to access local network printers or specific websites without the VPN.
- CleanWeb: Blocks malicious ads and pop-ups that can carry malware, protecting your Windows installation.
- Static IP: Offers servers with a fixed IP address, which is useful for hosting private servers or accessing remote desktops.
4. ExpressVPN: The Stable Choice
ExpressVPN is known for its "it just works" philosophy. Its Lightway protocol is incredibly efficient, ensuring that the VPN software does not hog your CPU cycles, leaving more resources available for rendering graphics and processing data.
Why it works:
- Browser Extensions: Full control of the desktop app directly from Chrome, Firefox, or Edge.
- Speed Test: Built-in speed test tool helps you verify your connection quality before you start browsing or gaming.
- MediaStreamer: Smart DNS service included for unblocking content on devices that do not support VPN apps.
5. Mullvad: The Privacy Enthusiast
For PC power users who care deeply about privacy and open-source software, Mullvad is the gold standard. It has no affiliate upsells, a clean interface, and focuses entirely on anonymity. It is perfect for Linux dual-boot systems as well.
Why it works:
- Transparent: No email required; your account is just a number.
- Port Forwarding: Mullvad historically supported this heavily (check current status as policies change), popular among P2P users.
- Advanced Settings: Granular control over MTU size and WireGuard keys for network tweaking.
PC VPNs Compared
| VPN Service | Key Features | Windows App | Verdict | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | Meshnet / NordLynx | Map Interface | #1 Overall | |
| CyberGhost | Dedicated Servers | Taskbar Optimised | Easy Use | |
| Surfshark | Static IPs | Modern / Clean | Best Value | |
| ExpressVPN | Lightway | Minimalist | Reliable | |
| Mullvad | Port Configs | Basic / Fast | Private | |
| IPVanish | Detailed Graphs | Data Heavy | Techy | |
| Hide.me | Stealth Guard | Advanced | Complex | |
| PureVPN | Port Forwarding | Standard | Option | |
| PrivadoVPN | SOCKS5 Proxy | User Friendly | Freemium | |
| ZoogVPN | Basic | Simple | Cheap | |
| iTop VPN | Game Boost | System Care | Basic |
Windows Privacy: The Telemetry Problem
The Reality: Windows 11 and 10 are notorious for collecting vast amounts of "telemetry" data. This includes information about the apps you run, your typing history, and your browsing habits. While you can disable some of this in settings, your ISP can still see every website you visit.
The Solution: A VPN encrypts all traffic leaving your PC. While it cannot stop Microsoft from seeing what you do locally on the OS, it blinds your ISP and external ad networks. Combining a VPN with privacy tools like "O&O ShutUp10++" is the best way to harden your PC against surveillance.
For more specific configuration guides, we have detailed breakdowns for each operating system version. If you have recently upgraded, check out our guide on the best VPNs for Windows 11 to ensure compatibility with the new security features. If you are sticking with the older OS for stability, our Windows 10 VPN guide covers everything you need to know about legacy support.
Ethernet vs Wi-Fi for Speed
For the best performance on a PC, your connection method matters just as much as your VPN provider:
- Ethernet (Recommended): Using a wired cable provides the most stable connection with the lowest packet loss. This is crucial when using a VPN, as it prevents the "jitter" that can occur when encryption overhead meets Wi-Fi instability.
- Wi-Fi 6E: If you must use wireless, ensure you are using Wi-Fi 6 or 6E. These standards handle multiple data streams better, allowing the VPN encryption to run more smoothly without causing lag spikes.
Setup Guide: Optimising Windows
Follow these steps to get the best VPN performance on your PC:
- Use WireGuard: In your VPN settings, select WireGuard (or NordLynx/Lightway). This protocol is far lighter on your CPU than OpenVPN.
- Disable IPv6: Some VPNs struggle with IPv6 leaks. It is often safer to disable IPv6 in your network adapter settings to ensure all traffic goes through the IPv4 VPN tunnel.
- Split Tunneling: Configure your VPN to exclude high-bandwidth, non-sensitive apps (like game updates from Steam) to ensure your speeds remain high for browsing.
VPNs and ToS Bans
While VPNs are legal in most countries, using them in certain contexts can violate Terms of Service (ToS):
- Region Locking: Using a VPN to buy software or games from cheaper regions (e.g., Turkey/Argentina) is strictly against many subscriber agreements and can lead to account bans.
- Anti-Cheat: Some security software (like Vanguard or BattlEye) may flag VPN usage as suspicious if the IP changes rapidly. Stick to a single server location while active.
FAQs for PC VPNs
Will a VPN slow down my PC?
Modern VPNs like NordVPN use lightweight protocols (WireGuard) that have minimal impact on your system's performance. You likely won't notice it running unless you are on a very old machine.
Do I need a VPN for Windows 11?
Windows 11 collects a significant amount of telemetry data. While a VPN cannot stop the operating system from tracking you locally, it does prevent your ISP and third-party trackers on the web from building a profile of your browsing habits.
Can I torrent safely with these VPNs?
Yes. All the VPNs recommended here (especially NordVPN and CyberGhost) have dedicated P2P servers optimised for secure torrenting. Always ensure your Kill Switch is enabled before starting a download.
