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One of the most important use cases of a VPN is to grant you access to foreign locations, whether that's to bypass censorship in your home country or simply enjoy international content that may be blocked in your current place of stay. This is why it's important to choose the best VPN for server locations.
Also, having access to more VPN servers means you'll have more choice in which server you connect to. In turn, you're more likely to find a quick, stable connection. To help you pick the best VPN for your needs, our experts at Tom's Guide have put dozens of providers to the test.
How we’ve chosen the best VPN server providers
Why you can trust Tom's Guide Our writers and editors spend hours analyzing and reviewing products, services, and apps to help find what's best for you. Find out more about how we test, analyze, and rate.
The following five services provide what we think are the best combinations of VPN server locations alongside sheer strength in numbers. Ranking first is ExpressVPN which, while it doesn’t have the absolute maximum number of servers, has the widest network on the list with enough servers to populate them.
And, if we’re honest, after about 3,000 or so servers there’s little true increase in performance, and the quality of the service is more down to efficient server maintenance and excellent apps – both of which ExpressVPN has kept on top of for years, now.
However, if you want to look through the VPN server titans on the market today, just scroll down. You’ll read what we love about these behemoths, and why they might be a great fit for you.
The 3 best VPN server providers at a glance
The best VPN for servers overall
Proton VPN's focus is privacy and its huge server fleet means no matter where you are in the world, you'll find a server near you. It has 17,000+ servers in 166 countries and 127 locations worldwide. It has a particular focus on Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, offering 28, 44, and 13 server locations respectively – the most out of any VPN on this list by some margin.
Additionally, as discussed in our Proton VPN review, it has always been one of the most secure VPNs around, thanks to its Swiss lineage and the country's firm stance against surveillance and data sharing with other countries. Moreover, Switzerland is outside the EU and U.S. jurisdiction.
Other Proton VPN security offerings include its Secure Core technology, which routes your traffic through an ultra-secure server in Sweden, Switzerland, or Iceland before connecting you to your destination.
The huge amount of servers also make Proton VPN a force to reckon with for streaming. It chewed through the geo-blocks on platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+, as well as other niche streaming services like the Aussie 9Now and 10 Play. On top of this, its 1,500+ speeds mean you should experience no performance issues when watching your favorite shows.
It's worth noting, however, that we don't recommend Proton VPN’s free plan if you're looking for a good selection of servers. Although even the best free VPNs admittedly offer just a handful of servers to begin with, Proton VPN Free only gives you eight locations. Rivals like Privado VPN Free offer up to 13 server locations, for instance.
One of Proton VPN's only downsides is its price. At $3.59 per month, it's the most expensive VPN on this list. There's only one tier of plan, so you get a very comprehensive package and all features Proton VPN has to offer. But if you're on a budget, you may want to check out Surfshark or Private Internet Access (PIA).
Feature | Comments | Rating |
|---|---|---|
Design | Gorgeous and intuitive dark mode | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Ease of use | Mobile apps are easier to use than their desktop counterparts | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Performance | One of the fastest services right now | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Unblocking | Effortlessly unblocks most sites, but that's only for paid users | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Security and privacy | Strong Swiss privacy, open-source apps, and a handful of unique features | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Customer support | Lots of helpful guides and support agents reply fairly quickly. But not 24/7. | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Price | Not as cheap as the others, but there's a handy free plan | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
The best for consistency
With millions of downloads and excellent ratings across the board, NordVPN is undoubtedly one of the most acclaimed VPNs out there. There are virtually no gaps in its service, as it offers a triple whammy of speed, unblocking, and privacy, combined with excellent value for money.
In our detailed NordVPN review, we found that its 8,000+ servers in 178 locations worldwide mean that you'll always be able to find a fast and uncongested server nearby. Oh, and it's very fast. With top speeds of over 1,200 Mbps when using its proprietary NordLynx protocol, NordVPN is one of the fastest VPNs out there, alongside the likes of Surfshark and Proton VPN.
For those looking for one of the best streaming VPNs, NordVPN is a great choice, as it can unblock pretty much every service around – from Netflix to BBC iPlayer and Hulu. And, if that's not enough, it's also got dedicated P2P servers for those looking to torrent.
When it comes to security, NordVPN is a complete package. In addition to VPN essentials such as a reliable kill switch, an independently audited no-logs policy, and post-quantum encryption. Extra features include Threat Protection Pro, the NordPass password manager, secure cloud storage, data breach scanner, and even cyber insurance.
NordVPN's server spread is very good and its total locations in topped only by ExpressVPN. Although, it can't quite match Proton VPN for servers in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. However, it's hard to separate the two.
If you want more servers overall and a focus on Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, go for Proton VPN. If you want post-quantum encryption and a stronger performance in the Americas and Europe, go for NordVPN.
NordVPN's interface can be a bit awkward to use on the smaller screens of mobile phones. However, it works and feels sleek on bigger screens.
Prices are also a little expensive, with NordVPN Basic costing $3.39 per month. If you want to match Proton VPN for features, you'll need NordVPN Plus at $4.39 per month. You can take it for a test drive before committing thanks to its 30-day money-back guarantee.
Feature | Comments | Rating |
|---|---|---|
Design | Excellent desktop apps, but the ones on mobile can come across as slightly overwhelming | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Ease of use | The map-based interface is cool, but not everybody's preference | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Performance | Fast speeds of over 1,200 Mbps | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Unblocking | Unblocks all Netflix regions and every other streaming site except US YouTube | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Security and privacy | All-in-one security package, including protection against malware, phishing, and ads | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Customer support | 24/7 friendly and professional help, plus very helpful articles | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Price | Non-discounted plans are expensive | ⭐⭐⭐ |
The best for number of locations
If you're looking for a super-reliable VPN server network spread all over the world, ExpressVPN should be one of your top choices. While it may not have as many servers as NordVPN or Proton VPN, its location count of 188 can't be beaten. This is aided by it now offering a server in every US state – something only PIA can match.
Also, the quality of ExpressVPN's servers is class-leading. The company prefers quality over quantity, as it has a small selection of powerful servers rather than a lot of cheap ones. All are protected by post-quantum encryption, obfuscation, and they run on ExpressVPN's RAM-only and TrustedServer technology.
ExpressVPN's high-quality server network isn't the only reason it's in this list, though. It's also the perfect tool for those who are looking to stream or torrent, and no matter what you're doing, you'll be covered by its stringent and audited privacy policy and a rock-solid kill switch.
ExpressVPN's biggest selling point, though, is its ease of use. As the best VPN for newbies, it offers simple and similar apps across all devices, and getting connected is as simple as tapping the big on/off button on its home screen.
Overall speeds have dropped in our latest round of testing. Lightway recorded speeds of 489 Mbps and WireGuard clocked 694 Mbps. These aren't slow but can't match Surfshark, NordVPN, and Proton VPN. However, the Windows-exclusive Lightway Turbo measured speeds of 1,479 Mpbs.
Its pricing and plan overhaul means three tiers of ExpressVPN are available, offering a range of features. Its non-discounted prices are a little expensive but comparable to NordVPN and Proton VPN.
Overall, its server network, although small, is comprehensive, and boasts excellent privacy. Try it out with a 30-day money-back guarantee and see for yourself.
Feature | Comments | Rating |
|---|---|---|
Design | Clean design with everything exactly where it's supposed to be | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Ease of use | Great for beginners | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Performance | Quick enough but not the fastest | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Unblocking | Consistently unblocks all popular platforms and regions | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Security and privacy | Excellent encryption and regular audits will protect your data at all times | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Customer support | 24/7 expert assistance and tons of in-depth guides | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Price | Worth the splurge, but cheaper options are available | ⭐⭐⭐ |
The best cheap option
Surfshark offers a nice range of servers, although its network is considerably narrower than the likes of NordVPN and Proton VPN. However, that should hardly be an issue, seeing as the servers are spread out across 142 locations in 100 countries. Still, if you’re someone in a farther-flung location, it'll be worth checking if you have access to a decent server nearby.
Its server spread is largest in Europe and the joint highest in South America. However, its servers in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East fall behind its rivals. Surfshark has recetnly made big updates to its server size and performance. So although its on the smaller side of things, you shouldn't experience any issues. Examples include 100 Gbps servers, FastTrack, and Everlink.
Surfshark’s party piece, however, is its ridiculous value for money. Don't let its cheap prices fool you – it's a full-fledged VPN service that has only gotten better over the last few months. As the best cheap VPN in our rankings, Surfshark offers a brilliant mix of world-class privacy, unblocking, speed, and, of course, pocket-friendly prices.
Surfshark has continued to dominate our speed test charts with peak speeds of over 1,615 Mpbs – the fastest VPN on this list. It also performed very well in our streaming tests.
There's unlimited connections and unique features including Alternative ID but competitors offer greater customization and extra features.
With a price tag of less than $1.99 per month, Surfshark is easily our top recommendation for anyone on a tight budget. Be sure to make the most of its 30-day money-back guarantee and try before you buy.
Feature | Comments | Rating |
|---|---|---|
Design | Clean and intuitive design | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Ease of use | Incredibly simple and a good VPN for beginners | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Performance | One of the fastest VPNs | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Unblocking | Easily unblocks most streaming services | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Security and privacy | Robust features and independent audits ensure peace of mind | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Customer support | Great 24/7 availability and tons of help articles | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Price | Super cheap, offers value that can't be beat | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
The best for experts
Private Internet Access (PIA) is part of the old guard and has been running for a decade since 2010. It's worth noting that PIA doesn't disclose the number of servers it has, but the number is reportedly over 20,000, meaning its network size is close to three times the size of NordVPN. It's one of only two leading VPNs to have a server in each US state, making it one of the best US VPN.
Ideal for torrenters, every PIA server is P2P-ready, and strong encryption will keep you safe while you're connected, too. It also boasts a clear-cut no-logs policy, which, interestingly, has been proven in court twice. What's more, you get robust security features such as an email breach scanner and a Boxcryptor license that encrypts all of your cloud storage.
All PIA apps are open source, meaning anyone is free to verify its claims at a time of their choosing. Speaking of apps, PIA is the most customizable VPN on this list and perfect for experts. You can use it as a beginner but better options are available.
PIA performed fairly well in our streaming tests. It unblocked everything except Amazon Prime Video. But unblocking US Disney+, UK Netflix, and other UK streaming services took multiple attempts.
PIA is a little slower than the competition. It topped out at 621 Mbps in my testing. This is fast enough for 4K streaming and everyday use but every other VPN here is faster.
PIA's unlimited simultaneous connections is generous, and considering the bargain price that can be had on its longer contracts, it offers excellent value for money, costing $2.03 per month.
To conclude, if you're looking for airtight privacy and the absolute maximum number of servers, PIA is a great choice. Lastly, a 30-day money-back guarantee allows you to try the service without risking a single penny.
Feature | Comments | Rating |
|---|---|---|
Design | Tons of options make it come across as cluttered | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Ease of use | Simple enough for beginners, but it's certainly meant for the tech-savvy | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Performance | Not slow by any means, but its rivals are much faster | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Unblocking | More than 20,000 servers makes unblocking content a breeze | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Security and privacy | Top-notch encryption with a proven no-log policy | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Customer support | Support agents are easy and quick to speak to, and lots of guides | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Price | Budget-friendly, almost on par with Surfshark | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
How do VPN locations compare?
VPN | North America | South America | Europe | Africa | Asia | Oceania | Middle East | US |
Surfshark | 34 | 10 | 54 | 6 | 32 | 6 | 5 | 24 |
NordVPN | 49 | 10 | 53 | 18 | 40 | 8 | 11 | 31 |
ExpressVPN | 71 | 9 | 58 | 6 | 36 | 8 | 5 | 55 |
Proton VPN | 32 | 7 | 49 | 28 | 44 | 6 | 13 | 19 |
PIA | 60 | 9 | 46 | 5 | 25 | 7 | 6 | 50 |
VPN server locations FAQ
Which provider has the most VPN servers?
Out of any VPN service, Private Internet Access in theory has the most VPN servers – rumored to be over 20,000 – but its actual number isn't disclosed. However, this is an interesting case in point, as we wouldn't recommend it as our top pick.
Instead, we'd recommend either Proton VPN or NordVPN. Both have far fewer servers than PIA – 17,000+ and 8,000+ respectively – but in practice that's more than enough, and we'd suggest you make your decision on other factors like connection speed, streaming support, overall privacy and security, and general usability.
Why does the amount of VPN servers matter?
The number of VPN servers a provider has can have a huge effect on how the service works overall.
Having a large number of servers means that each one will have fewer users, ensuring better speeds, and the wider the variety of IP addresses, the more likely it is that you'll be able to watch Netflix successfully.
Also, the number of VPN server locations is useful, too. With more locations, no matter where you are in the world, you'll be able to connect to a closer server, ensuring better speeds.
However, you'll want a happy medium – just a few servers spread over tons of locations will result in poor speeds, and thousands of servers in just a few countries will be limiting in terms of content available.
We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example: 1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service). 2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad. We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.
