Best VPNs for Beginners (2026)
Why this list exists
Beginners don’t need the most advanced VPN — they need one that’s hard to mess up. The biggest risks for new users aren’t exotic attacks, but simple mistakes: forgetting to connect, misconfiguring settings, or abandoning the VPN because it feels annoying.
This list focuses on VPNs that are easy to install, easy to use, and reliable by default, with sensible settings and minimal decision fatigue.
ExpressVPN is the best VPN for beginners in 2026 thanks to its clean apps, sensible defaults, and “just works” experience across devices. Surfshark is a strong alternative if you want a beginner-friendly VPN at a lower price with unlimited device connections.
- ExpressVPN — simplest setup, lowest friction
- Surfshark — best value for beginners
- NordVPN — beginner-friendly with room to grow
Best VPNs for Beginners (Shortlist)
🥇 ExpressVPN — Best Beginner VPN Overall
ExpressVPN is consistently the easiest premium VPN to use. Installation is fast, the interface is clean, and there are very few settings you can accidentally misconfigure. It’s ideal if you want protection without thinking about how the VPN works.
🥈 Surfshark — Best Value VPN for Beginners
Surfshark offers beginner-friendly apps with more features than ExpressVPN, but still keeps things approachable. Unlimited device connections make it especially appealing for families or first-time users with multiple devices.
🥉 NordVPN — Beginner-Friendly With More Control
NordVPN balances usability with power. Beginners can use it in one-click mode, while more advanced options are available later if you want to learn.
How we chose the best VPNs for beginners
- Ease of setup: Can a new user install and connect in minutes?
- Safe defaults: Does it protect users without manual tuning?
- Low friction: Will people keep it turned on?
- Clear apps: Simple UI across desktop and mobile
- Support quality: Helpful documentation and live help
Who this list is not for
- Privacy maximalists who want anonymous accounts and minimal personal data
- Advanced users who want fine-grained protocol and routing controls
- People who only want a free VPN with no limitations
Alternatives & next steps
- Best VPNs (2026) — if you want the all-around best options
- NordVPN vs ExpressVPN — if you’re choosing between top picks
- What is a VPN? — beginner-friendly explainer
FAQ
- What is the easiest VPN to use? ExpressVPN is usually the simplest for beginners.
- Do beginners need advanced VPN features? No — safe defaults matter more than options.
- Is a VPN hard to set up? Most beginner VPNs install in under five minutes.
- Will a VPN slow my internet? Slightly, but good beginner VPNs minimize the impact.
- Does a VPN make me anonymous? No — it reduces exposure but doesn’t eliminate tracking.
Bottom line
If you’re new to VPNs and want something that just works, start with ExpressVPN. If price matters more and you still want simplicity, Surfshark is an excellent alternative.