CNET’s Top Choice for the Quickest VPN in 2023
Why Connection Speed Matters for VPNs
When choosing a VPN, there are important factors to consider such as security features, encryption strength, and the cost of the service. However, don't overlook the connection speed of a VPN, especially if you plan on using it for data-heavy activities like gaming, streaming, torrenting, or videoconferencing. Most VPNs will cut your speed in half, which can negatively impact your online experience. A fast VPN ensures lag-free gaming, smooth streaming, quick downloads, and stable calls.
Our Speed Testing Methodology
Determining the speed of a VPN is a complex process that involves various forms of testing and multiple factors. At CNET, we have developed a speed testing methodology that mirrors the conditions experienced by the average consumer. Our research and testing of the fastest VPN services aim to provide practical value to VPN users. We understand that some users prioritize speed over security, especially for streaming or gaming purposes. Therefore, we now consider speeds through lightweight VPN protocols like WireGuard and proprietary protocols offered by VPN providers. These newer protocols are faster than OpenVPN but have not been extensively tested for security.
Please note that the following list of the fastest VPNs is based on our testing conducted in February and March of 2023. Individual results may vary depending on factors such as the platform you're using, your location, and your internet service provider.
Fastest VPNs in 2023
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NordVPN
- Among the fastest VPNs
- Tons of features
- Diskless RAM-only server infrastructure
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ExpressVPN
- Unmatched transparency
- Top-notch security with no leaks detected
- Excellent for streaming
Savings: 59% off with 24-month plan (+ 3 extra months)
Latest tests: No leaks detected, 13% speed loss in summer 2022 tests
Network: 5,600-plus servers in 84 locations across 59 countries
Jurisdiction: Panama
Pros & Cons:
Who it's best for: Individuals looking for fast speeds and a feature-rich VPN
Who should avoid: Users who require transparency reports or need more than six simultaneous connections
NordVPN's speeds have improved over the past few years. In our most recent testing, the average speed loss was only 10%. The fastest round of testing resulted in a 7% speed loss through the NordLynx VPN protocol, based on WireGuard. NordVPN has overtaken ExpressVPN as the fastest VPN.
Savings: 49% off with 12-month plan (+3 free months)
Latest tests: No leaks detected, 2% speed loss in spring 2022 tests
Network: 3,000-plus servers in 160 locations across 94 countries
Jurisdiction: British Virgin Islands
Pros & Cons:
Who it's best for: Users looking for a highly transparent VPN with excellent security and streaming capabilities
Who should avoid: Individuals on a tight budget or who need more than five simultaneous connections
ExpressVPN had impressive speeds in the past with only a 2% speed loss. However, in our most recent testing, the average speed loss increased to 18%. Despite this drop, ExpressVPN remains a strong contender with its commitment to security and its proprietary Lightway protocol. For individuals prioritizing privacy and security, ExpressVPN is an excellent choice.
Other Considerations
While NordVPN and ExpressVPN are the top contenders in terms of speed, Surfshark, IPVanish, and Proton VPN still offer speeds suitable for most online activities. However, their inconsistent performance in our testing disqualifies them from the fastest VPN title.
IPVanish:
- 26% speed loss in February/March 2023 tests (faster than 58% in 2022)
- Fastest speed tested: 14% speed loss (WireGuard)
- Fastest VPN connections: New York
- Slowest VPN connections: Singapore
Proton VPN:
- 36% speed loss in February/March 2023 tests (slower than 17% in 2022)
- Fastest speed tested: 23% speed loss (WireGuard)
- Fastest VPN connections: New York
- Slowest VPN connections: UK
Surfshark:
- 40% speed loss in February/March 2023 tests (slower than 19% in 2022)
- Fastest speed tested: 8% speed loss (WireGuard)
- Fastest VPN connections: Europe
- Slowest VPN connections: Singapore
While these VPN providers may not be the fastest, their speeds are still suitable for most online activities. However, inconsistent performance during testing prevented them from being named the fastest VPNs.