Quick Comparison

Provider Score Logging Policy Jurisdiction Refund Period Notable
Surfshark
 65 - B- No Logs Netherlands 30 days Best in Category
ExpressVPN
 58 - C+ Minimal BVI 30 days
NordVPN
 52 - C Minimal Panama 30 days
ProtonVPN
 45 - C- No Logs Switzerland 30 days Lowest in Category

Key Findings

Logging Claims vs Reality

"No logs" claims vary significantly. Some VPNs still collect connection timestamps, bandwidth usage, or metadata that could identify users.

Jurisdiction Matters

Where a VPN is incorporated affects what data requests they must comply with. Five Eyes countries can compel data sharing.

Ownership Transparency

Several major VPNs are owned by the same parent companies. Kape Technologies owns ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and PIA.

Refund Limitations

30-day money-back guarantees often exclude certain payment methods, heavy usage, or require specific cancellation procedures.

Provider Reviews

Surfshark

Unlimited Devices
65
Grade: B-
Best in Category
  • Netherlands jurisdiction concerns
  • Newer company, less track record
  • Merged with NordVPN parent

ExpressVPN

British Virgin Islands
58
Grade: C+
Consumer Fairness Index
  • Kape Technologies ownership
  • Higher pricing than competitors
  • Past executive controversies

NordVPN

Panama Based
52
Grade: C
Consumer Fairness Index
  • Past security breach concerns
  • Aggressive marketing practices
  • Auto-renewal complications

ProtonVPN

Swiss Privacy
45
Grade: C-
Lowest in Category
  • Free tier limitations unclear
  • Premium pricing complexity
  • Some servers slower than competitors