How We Test VPNs (And Why It Matters)
How We Test VPNs (And Why It Matters)
VPNs are privacy tools — not magic cloaks. So we don’t just test how fast they are or whether they stream Netflix. We dig deeper. We check if they log your data, how they handle legal requests, and if their fancy-sounding features actually work.
We also care about trust. Who owns the VPN? Have they been independently audited? Are they honest about server locations?
Here’s exactly how we test and why it’s worth knowing — especially if you’re relying on a VPN to protect your personal info, avoid censorship, or just stay secure on public Wi-Fi.
What We Test (And How)
| Category | What We Look At | How We Test It |
|---|---|---|
| Privacy Protection | Encryption protocols, server setup, privacy tools like multi-hop or Tor, no-log claims | We inspect app settings, review privacy policies, and check for third-party audits or verified tools |
| Speed Performance | Latency, download, and upload speeds | SpeedTest run 10x with and without VPN on a 1Gbps line — same hardware, same location, peak hours (10am–12pm) |
| Ease of Use | Setup process, app interface, clarity of settings | We install and use the VPN on Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and ChromeOS, testing the real setup process |
| Ethics & Ownership | Editorial independence, affiliate links, who owns the VPN | We disclose affiliate relationships and clearly flag VPNs owned by our parent company or related businesses |
| Server Network | Number of servers, countries covered, physical vs virtual infrastructure | We map out server locations, ask about virtual servers, and try connecting to several during testing |
| Security Features | Protocols (e.g. WireGuard, OpenVPN), kill switch, leak protection, custom tools | We look for up-to-date, open-source tech. Bonus points for post-quantum encryption or advanced privacy tools |
| Trust & Legal Context | Jurisdiction, logging policies, transparency reports, legal request responses | We read the small print and talk to providers directly. We look at how they’ve handled past security issues |
| Price & Value | Monthly cost, refund policy, devices allowed, included features | We use base pricing (not promos) and highlight real-world value (free trials, no device limits, etc.) |
| Streaming Support | Netflix, BBC iPlayer, etc. | We test major platforms manually, but don’t score VPNs based on this alone |
| Extra Features | Static IP, built-in tools like password managers or ad-blockers | We list them, but only factor them in if they improve privacy or reliability |
| Censorship & Access | Server access in restrictive regions, tools to avoid blocks | We note censorship-related tools but don’t rank VPNs on circumvention claims |
| Cross-Platform Support | Feature consistency across platforms | We check which features work where, and how well each app fits the platform it’s on |
| Review Updates | Speed of updates after security incidents or major product changes | We regularly revisit and update reviews when something big changes — or a provider earns (or loses) trust |
Ethics First, Always
Some VPN sites are packed with vague reviews, fake user ratings, or endless “best of” lists. We get it — it’s hard to know who to trust.
So here’s how we stay independent:
- If we earn money through affiliate links, we say so
- The editorial and business teams are separate. No one gets paid more if a VPN scores better.
- We don’t offer paid placements, hidden boosts, or score changes.
Bottom line: You’ll always know where we stand — and why.
Privacy Matters Most
A VPN should protect your privacy. That’s its main job. So we don’t just look at surface-level claims. We check for:
- Open-source or modern protocols (like WireGuard)
- RAM-only servers that wipe data on reboot
- Verified no-logs policies — ideally backed by audits
- Features like Tor-over-VPN or multi-hop routing
- Clear responses to legal requests
We also check if they’re operating in privacy-friendly jurisdictions (like Panama or the British Virgin Islands), or if they fall under data-sharing alliances like Five, Nine or Fourteen Eyes.
Real-World Speed Testing
Yes, VPNs slow your internet a little. But how much depends on the provider.
We use Ookla’s SpeedTest tool to run 10 tests on a wired 1Gbps connection in NYC — with and without the VPN running. We do this during busy times (10 a.m.–12 p.m. EST) to mimic real conditions. Then we compare the median download, upload, and ping.
This gives you a rough idea of what to expect — but remember, your own speed will vary based on location, ISP, and device.
User Experience Matters Too
A VPN can be super secure, but if it’s clunky or confusing, you won’t use it — and that defeats the point.
We test each VPN on multiple platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and ChromeOS. We look for:
- Clear setup
- Easy access to privacy tools
- A clean interface that matches the platform’s design
We also flag annoying issues (like hidden settings or forced logins) and celebrate when a service gets it right.
Features vs. Gimmicks
Some VPNs pile on extras to stand out: password managers, ad-blockers, file lockers, even antivirus tools.
We focus on the basics — encryption, privacy, performance — but we do mention extra features if they’re useful. Just don’t expect a mediocre VPN to get bonus points just because it offers a flashy dashboard.
Streaming? Yep, We Check That Too
Many people want a VPN to access content abroad — and we test that. We try Netflix (US/UK), BBC iPlayer, and other major services.
But streaming access can change fast, so we treat it as a bonus, not a core ranking factor. Still, if a VPN nails it regularly, we’ll say so.
Censorship & Sensitive Use
VPNs are crucial in countries where internet access is limited or monitored. But recommending a “best VPN for censorship” is tricky — and risky.
We do highlight providers that have tools for bypassing blocks (like obfuscated servers), but we don’t score VPNs based on this. And we always urge caution: no VPN can guarantee safety in high-risk environments.
Ongoing Reviews — Not Set-And-Forget
The VPN market changes fast. A provider that’s solid today might suffer a breach tomorrow — or get bought by a shady company.
That’s why we keep tabs on news, user reports, and product updates. If something important happens (like a major policy change or a big security upgrade), we update our reviews.
Final Thought: You Deserve the Truth
A VPN is one of the few tools that can meaningfully protect your online privacy — but only if it’s trustworthy, well-made, and transparent.
We test VPNs because we care about that. And because too many people are still getting sold false promises or locked into long-term deals they regret.
Our promise? Clear, honest reviews based on real tests. No fluff. No fear tactics. Just facts.
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