We review vendors based on rigorous testing and research but also take into account your feedback and our affiliate commission with providers. Some providers are owned by our parent company.
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vpnMentor was established in 2014 to review VPN services and cover privacy-related stories. Today, our team of hundreds of cybersecurity researchers, writers, and editors continues to help readers fight for their online freedom in partnership with Kape Technologies PLC, which also owns the following products: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access which may be ranked and reviewed on this website. The reviews published on vpnMentor are believed to be accurate as of the date of each article, and written according to our strict reviewing standards that prioritize professional and honest examination of the reviewer, taking into account the technical capabilities and qualities of the product together with its commercial value for users. The rankings and reviews we publish may also take into consideration the common ownership mentioned above, and affiliate commissions we earn for purchases through links on our website. We do not review all VPN providers and information is believed to be accurate as of the date of each article.
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vpnMentor was established in 2014 to review VPN services and cover privacy-related stories. Today, our team of hundreds of cybersecurity researchers, writers, and editors continues to help readers fight for their online freedom in partnership with Kape Technologies PLC, which also owns the following products: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access which may be ranked and reviewed on this website. The reviews published on vpnMentor are believed to be accurate as of the date of each article, and written according to our strict reviewing standards that prioritize professional and honest examination of the reviewer, taking into account the technical capabilities and qualities of the product together with its commercial value for users. The rankings and reviews we publish may also take into consideration the common ownership mentioned above, and affiliate commissions we earn for purchases through links on our website. We do not review all VPN providers and information is believed to be accurate as of the date of each article.

Pros & Cons of VPNs: Advantages & Disadvantages in 2024

James Everard Updated on 28th November 2024 Fact-checked by Christine Johansen Senior Writer

A good VPN comes with plenty of benefits, which generally outweigh the cons. It will let you safely access your favorite streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer from anywhere in the best available quality. You can use it to change your IP address to appear as though you’re in a different country and get better prices on flights, hotel rooms, and more.

But it’s not all for entertainment purposes. Reputable VPNs secure your internet connection, protect your privacy, and conceal your identity, keeping you safe from hackers or anyone else who might be trying to keep tabs on your online activity.

While VPNs do have drawbacks, they’re generally easy to avoid or mitigate. We’ll dive into the major advantages and disadvantages of using a VPN below, so you can decide whether it’s right for you. So far, the VPN with the least amount of cons that we've tested is ExpressVPN. It has a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it for yourself risk-free. Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

Try ExpressVPN Risk-Free >>

Short on Time? Here Are the Main Pros and Cons of VPNs

Pros

  • Stream in HD from anywhere. Good VPNs work with a lot of popular streaming platforms and can let you watch your favorite shows safely in the best possible quality.
  • Access global IP addresses. VPNs offer servers in multiple countries across the world, so you can get an IP from a region of your choice.
  • Stay safe online. VPN services come with security features to ensure your online data is safe. Most of them offer protection against malware, malicious ads, trackers, cyberattacks, and more.
  • Avoid ISP throttling. Since VPNs change your IP address, it's possible to avoid ISP throttling, especially when engaging in high-bandwidth activities, like streaming.
  • Save money. With the abundance of IPs they offer, VPNs can save you some money for your upcoming trips or other services since prices are different in countries worldwide.

Cons

  • Slower connection speeds. VPNs encrypt your traffic, so it's inevitable for your speeds to slow down. That's why it's important to pick a VPN that offers consistently low speed drops.
  • Unable to bypass network blocks. Some VPNs may be unable to work on restrictive public networks that block VPNs. Others can be blocked by streaming platforms or can't work in high-censorship countries like China.
  • Unsafe VPN options. There are VPNs that log a lot of your data or lack important security features like a kill switch or DNS/IP leak protection. That's why it's important to choose a no-logs VPN that comes with all the necessary security features.
  • Other possible inconveniences. Depending on the VPN service, you may experience more CAPTCHA tests. Also, mobile data can be used up faster due to the VPN connection, and you may not be able to use local network devices like printers.
Be advised: The VPNs we recommend have strict no-logs policies to ensure your online activity is never recorded, stored, or shared. Therefore, it’s down to you to adhere to the terms and conditions of the streaming platforms and other websites you use. The team and I at vpnMentor don’t condone copyright infringement, so please use your VPN responsibly.

VPN Pros: Advantages of Using a VPN

Stream in HD From Anywhere

Since VPNs offer worldwide connections, they can safely access movies and shows from anywhere. Some VPNs also offer obfuscation features, allowing them to get around stubborn network blocks that prevent access to streaming platforms (like at work or on public WiFi).

For a VPN to work with a streaming platform, it needs to have servers in the location where that platform is available. In addition, it’s important that a VPN has high speeds, like ExpressVPN. That way, you can watch content in Ultra HD (or the highest available quality) on platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu from anywhere.

Access Global IP Addresses

A VPN allows you to access the internet through a different IP address by routing your connection through a server in another location. This makes it possible for you to appear as if you're browsing from a different country. For instance, it can help you safely access certain sites for work purposes while working remotely.

Plus, when you use a VPN’s private IP, your personal IP address is hidden, allowing you to browse privately. A lot of sensitive information can be traced to your IP, so using one in another location makes it difficult for sites, services, and nosy third parties to track your online behavior. This is especially beneficial when accessing websites that are more prone to hackers — like torrenting platforms.

Stay Safe Online

In this day and age, we are constantly sending personal information over the internet without giving it a second thought. But let’s face it — whether you’re logging into your bank account or just having a private chat with your best friend, you don’t want anyone snooping on you.

A VPN encrypts your data and keeps your sensitive information private, whether you’re using it at home for individual purposes, in the office, or on the go. VPN use is also becoming increasingly popular for remote workers who need private access to company files, no matter where they go.

Be aware that your data is especially vulnerable when you’re using unsecured public WiFi. These networks can make you vulnerable to a wide array of cyber threats, including hacking, tracking, and malware. So, by using a VPN, you’re keeping your connection private and shielding it from these potential problems.

Vendor Logo of ExpressVPN
Military-Grade Security Features
DEAL: Save 61% + 30-day money-back guarantee
Editor's Choice for Security
Our Score: 10.0
High-level encryption keeps you safe online
Verified to not collect or share data

Avoid ISP Throttling

When you engage in certain high-bandwidth activities such as streaming, downloading, or gaming, your internet service provider (ISP) can see what you’re doing. Many IPSs use “throttling,” a technique for artificially capping your internet speeds. This is especially common during peak hours.

By using a VPN, your online activities are hidden from your ISP, which prevents them from throttling your connection for engaging in certain activities.

Save Money

Once you use a VPN to change your IP address, you’ll soon discover that there are many more benefits than meets the eye.

Many e-commerce websites display different prices to shoppers from different countries. For instance, a product that’s priced very high in Sweden may be offered at a much lower price if you access the same site through a server in India. Using a VPN also helps you to try different locations when visiting booking sites to reserve a flight and hotel for your upcoming holiday. However, make sure to check the terms of use of the service you're using to ensure this isn't prohibited.

For the most thorough market research, choose a VPN that has servers in a wide selection of countries. And remember — with a low-cost premium VPN, these benefits are all available for just a few dollars a month.

VPN Cons: Disadvantages To Look Out For

Slower Connection Speeds

A VPN keeps your connection secure by encrypting all your online activity, but this can come at the price of a very slow connection — and let’s face it, nobody has the time and patience to sit around waiting for websites to load or for streaming content to finish buffering.

However, the best premium VPNs do this with a speed loss of just a few percent on nearby servers, so it’s barely noticeable. There are plenty of high-speed services that won’t make the compromise of speed for security and other benefits not worth it.

Unable to Get Around Blocks

There are several types of VPN blocks ranging from less serious network restrictions to governmental firewalls. However, in most cases, it’s perfectly fine (and legal) to use a VPN to secure your connections.

Most streaming services, such as Netflix, try to combat VPN connections with VPN blockers. Not every VPN works well with major streaming platforms, so it’s best to find one that’s been proven to safely access popular sites from anywhere.

Some networks are restrictive, too, and impose different types of blocks to prevent heavy data usage or distractions. However, there are some reliable VPNs that can overcome these types of blocks at school, work, or another location with network restrictions.

Furthermore, a few countries heavily restrict or ban VPNs altogether, including Russia, China, and the UAE. For instance, China has what’s referred to as the Great Firewall, which is a government-level block that prevents access to not only tons of websites and platforms, but even VPNs. Most VPNs don’t work in the country at all, but a few do.

Some banking and financial apps and sites may block VPNs to prevent fraud. To avoid this inconvenience, a split tunneling feature can be handy if it’s available. This allows certain apps or sites to bypass the VPN connection while others are routed through the encrypted tunnel.

Unsafe VPN Options and Weak Security

VPNs prevent your ISP from seeing your data, but your VPN can still see it. That’s why we only recommend VPNs with strict no-logs policies, so your browsing won’t be monitored or stored.

Plus, with a reliable VPN service, you shouldn’t experience connection drops very often — but it can happen. The main problem is that the moment your encrypted connection drops, your real IP address is exposed, and you are no longer anonymous. Therefore, a kill switch is vital to temporarily halt your data while you reconnect.

Malware and viruses are another major concern. Most reliable VPNs have some kind of malicious content blocker to help prevent such threats from infecting your devices. However, some free VPNs can infect your devices with malware and sell your data to third parties.

Vendor Logo of ExpressVPN
Military-Grade Security Features
DEAL: Save 61% + 30-day money-back guarantee
Editor's Choice for Security
Our Score: 10.0
High-level encryption keeps you safe online
Verified to not collect or share data

Other Possible Inconveniences

Other minor concerns include having to complete more CAPTCHA tests to prove you’re human or entering your passwords more often. You can avoid this by using a private IP address or a VPN with static IPs. You can also use DuckDuckGo instead of Google.

Local network devices like printers are often inaccessible when connected to a VPN due to routing changes. However, some VPN services offer features like split tunneling or local LAN access to allow simultaneous connections to both local and remote networks.

Finally, you may find that mobile devices use more data when connected to a VPN. That’s because your browsing has further to travel via the VPN server. If you don’t have an unlimited plan, it’s therefore better to use WiFi connections rather than mobile data.

Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

Best VPNs for Any Activity in 2024

  1. ExpressVPN — offers the fastest speeds we’ve tested with its proprietary Lightway protocol and has reliable servers worldwide.
  2. CyberGhost — comes with dedicated servers for lag-free streaming, gaming, and downloading.
  3. Private Internet Access — has a lot of customizable settings to balance speed and security.

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

FAQs on the Pros & Cons of VPNs

What are the pros and cons of free VPNs?

Free VPNs often compromise on security and performance. They tend to lack the advanced features and protections of premium options, which means your data may be at risk. Many free VPNs generate revenue by selling user data to advertisers, and some even come with hidden malware. Free services also typically have limited servers, leading to slow connections, especially for data-intensive activities like streaming or gaming.

When should I not use a VPN?

There aren’t too many scenarios, but some users prefer not to use VPNs for banking and financial transactions. Some banks block VPNs to prevent fraud and could potentially restrict accounts if VPN use is detected. You may also prefer not to use a VPN if your starting speed is slow. In such cases, the slowdowns that VPNs can cause may prove inhibitive.

Is using a VPN a good idea?

A VPN is a good idea if you value privacy or use public WiFi frequently. It protects your online activity from being monitored by your ISP and hackers. It can also prevent your ISP from throttling your internet speeds if you stream or download frequently.

Besides preventing cyberthreats and inconveniences, VPNs also open up a world of opportunity with the benefits of having access to a global network of connections. So, in the end, it’s definitely a good idea, and there are plenty of advantages to using a VPN.

Do I need a VPN for home WiFi?

Yes, if you're privacy-focused. A VPN can add an extra layer of privacy to your home WiFi, hiding your browsing from your ISP and external trackers. It’s particularly helpful if you often torrent, stream, or want more protection against cyber threats. Even if you’re in the safety of your own network, without a VPN, you’re still exposed to the sites, services, apps, and other parties you connect with.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs for any activity…

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

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1
medal
9.9 /10
9.9 Our Score
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2
9.7 /10
9.7 Our Score
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3
9.5 /10
9.5 Our Score
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Privacy Alert!

Your data is exposed to the websites you visit!

Your IP Address:

Your Location:

Your Internet Provider:

The information above can be used to track you, target you for ads, and monitor what you do online.

VPNs can help you hide this information from websites so that you are protected at all times. We recommend ExpressVPN — the #1 VPN out of over 350 providers we've tested. It has military-grade encryption and privacy features that will ensure your digital security, plus — it's currently offering 61% off.

Visit ExpressVPN

We review vendors based on rigorous testing and research but also take into account your feedback and our affiliate commission with providers. Some providers are owned by our parent company.
Learn more
vpnMentor was established in 2014 to review VPN services and cover privacy-related stories. Today, our team of hundreds of cybersecurity researchers, writers, and editors continues to help readers fight for their online freedom in partnership with Kape Technologies PLC, which also owns the following products: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access which may be ranked and reviewed on this website. The reviews published on vpnMentor are believed to be accurate as of the date of each article, and written according to our strict reviewing standards that prioritize professional and honest examination of the reviewer, taking into account the technical capabilities and qualities of the product together with its commercial value for users. The rankings and reviews we publish may also take into consideration the common ownership mentioned above, and affiliate commissions we earn for purchases through links on our website. We do not review all VPN providers and information is believed to be accurate as of the date of each article.

About the Author

James conducts rigorous hands-on research and testing to evaluate dozens of VPNs for his articles. He's an advocate for digital freedom.

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