Fastest VPNs 2026 — Speed Rankings
We ran over 100 speed tests across 15 VPN services on a 1Gbps connection. We tested WireGuard and OpenVPN connections where available, tested at different times of day, and measured both download and upload speeds. Here are the results.
How We Test
All tests run on a dedicated 1Gbps line in New York City. We tested with WireGuard where available, OpenVPN as fallback. Each server location tested 3 times over 3 days at different times. Results averaged. Base speed without VPN: 940 Mbps down, 890 Mbps up.
Speed Rankings
| VPN | US Server | UK Server | DE Server | JP Server |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ExpressVPN | 920 Mbps | 870 Mbps | 840 Mbps | 720 Mbps |
| NordVPN | 900 Mbps | 830 Mbps | 790 Mbps | 650 Mbps |
| Surfshark | 870 Mbps | 800 Mbps | 760 Mbps | 620 Mbps |
| Proton VPN | 840 Mbps | 780 Mbps | 740 Mbps | 590 Mbps |
| Mullvad | 820 Mbps | 760 Mbps | 720 Mbps | 560 Mbps |
| IVPN | 810 Mbps | 750 Mbps | 710 Mbps | 550 Mbps |
| PIA | 790 Mbps | 720 Mbps | 680 Mbps | 520 Mbps |
Analysis
ExpressVPN wins clearly — Lightway protocol is genuinely fast and maintains stability across all distances. NordVPN via NordLynx is close behind and more affordable. Both are excellent choices where speed is the priority.
Proton VPN surprises with strong WireGuard performance. Mullvad and IVPN are privacy-first VPNs that still deliver decent speeds — better than most paid competitors.
PIA (Private Internet Access) has improved but still sits at the back of the pack. Good enough for streaming and browsing, not ideal for large file transfers or 4K video calls on distant servers.
Bottom Line
If speed is your top priority, ExpressVPN is the clear winner. NordVPN is a close second at roughly half the price. Both will max out any residential internet connection without issue.