VPN users are faced with an overwhelming array of choices in the market, but unfortunately, many of these options are subpar. With Upwards of 180 virtual private networks available for commercial users alone, the risk of analysis paralysis is very real for the casual user who simply wants a VPN to protect themselves online or change their virtual location.
The situation is further complicated by VPN providers making misleading claims about their products. Upon reading their homepages, you’ll notice repetitive phrases such as “Lightning-fast,” “Bank-grade encryption,” and “Zero-logs policy.” These claims are designed to sound impressive but lack substance, and even the best providers are guilty of using such language.
To cut through the clutter and help you select the right provider, our team at Engadget has developed a rigorous testing process that combines investigative journalism, objective testing, and qualitative review. This article explains how we research and test a VPN.
Update, May 28, 2025: This story has been completely overhauled to reflect the updated 2025 Engadget VPN testing methodology.
Table of contents
Our process at a glance
Check the table for a quick illustration of our VPN testing process.
Testing Step | What We Do |
Install, configure and use the VPN on multiple platforms | Investigate how easy it is to download, install and configure the VPN At a minimum, experience all features of the Windows, Mac, iOS and Android apps |
Test speeds | Test download speeds, upload speeds and latencies on a representative sample of servers around the world Test each location at least three times across two days and average scores |
Test security | Run encryption tests using WireSharkTest for DNS and WebRTC leaks See how the VPN handles IPv6 traffic Check that the VPN uses up-to-date protocols |
Look at pricing and deals | See what plans and discounts are available Investigate whether long-term deals rise in cost after the first billing period Look for free trials, coupons and other ways to save money |
Look at subscription bundles | Check what other standalone apps or services are bundled with the VPN Investigate how much those bundles cost and whether they’re |
