How We Review VPNs
Our rigorous, data-driven approach to VPN testing
Scoring System
Every VPN on vpn.social is scored across 8 categories using 60+ individual data points. Each category carries a weight that reflects its importance to real-world privacy and usability.
Two-factor authentication, open-source analytics, Blacklight tracker test, Exodus tracker test, no-logs policy, no data leaks (scored 0–5), no acquisitions by bad actors, transparent leadership, current independent audit, and bug bounty program.
WireGuard support, kill switch, split tunneling, Fire Stick app, browser extensions, ad blocking, Linux GUI, DNS controls, SOCKS5 proxy, dedicated IP, open-source client, torrenting support, Apple TV app, WireGuard config generator, RAM-only servers.
Speed test score (0–5 points based on measured throughput) and server footprint (0–5 points for 50+ countries covered).
Affordable monthly, annual, and multi-year plans; refund policy; no fake countdown timers; no price increase at renewal; 8+ simultaneous connections; easy cancellation; ecosystem bundle value.
Response time under 24 hours (0–5 points) and availability of human live chat (0–5 points).
Response to public criticism (0–2.5), overall reputation and media coverage (0–2.5), and whether the company owns review channels or affiliates that score their own product (0–2.5).
Unblocking Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, Prime Video, dedicated streaming mode, and 5+ Netflix regional libraries (each scored 0–2 points).
Visual design and polish (0–5 points) and ease of use across platforms (0–5 points).
Our 10-Step Testing Process
- 01We purchase every VPN subscription independently — no free review copies accepted.
- 02We test on real devices across multiple platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux.
- 03Speed tests are conducted from multiple geographic locations to measure real-world throughput.
- 04Streaming platform unblocking is verified against 7+ services including regional Netflix libraries.
- 05Privacy audit: Blacklight tracker test, Exodus tracker test, and logging policy analysis.
- 06Security: DNS leak testing, WebRTC leak testing, and kill switch verification on all major platforms.
- 07Ethics review: company ownership history, acquisition research, and public criticism response.
- 08Scores are computed algorithmically from the data — no manual score inflation.
- 09Reviews are updated quarterly with fresh test data.
- 10All tools on vpn.social are built and maintained by our own engineering team.
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