The Best VPNs for the Netherlands 2024 (2024)

A virtual private network (VPN) is an essential tool for internet users worldwide. Although the Netherlands provides a free and open internet experience, VPNs are still beneficial for unblocking geo-restrictions, remaining anonymous online, and other cybersecurity reasons.

ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access stand out as the best VPNs for the Netherlands. ExpressVPN is known for its superior security features and fast streaming capabilities. CyberGhost offers a balance between affordability and performance, making it a go-to choice for budget-conscious users. Finally, Private Internet Access is a suitable choice for anyone looking for more advanced customization and detailed settings.

The best VPNs for the Netherlands

• ExpressVPN: Best for comprehensive security
• CyberGhost: Best for budget-conscious users
• Private Internet Access: Best for advanced users

Top 3 VPN services for the Netherlands compared

ExpressVPN: Best for comprehensive security

Who it’s best for

ExpressVPN is a great option if you’re seeking robust security and speed. If you frequently stream Dutch content, participate in online gaming, or work remotely, then ExpressVPN might be your best bet.

ExpressVPN appeals to a broad spectrum of users, ranging from tech-savvy individuals to those who are less familiar with VPN technology. Its price point may be higher than other competitors, but you’ll get a reliable service and a comprehensive feature set.

What we liked

ExpressVPN’s server network includes 105 countries, which can help you establish a reliable and fast VPN connection. Notably, it offers Dutch servers in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague. Although we couldn’t find how many, we like the access to local IP addresses in three of the most popular locations in the country.

The support for multiple strong VPN protocols is another standout. ExpressVPN caters to diverse security needs and devices with the Lightway, OpenVPN, and IKEv2 protocols. ExpressVPN created the Lightway protocol for enhanced speed, reliability, and security for your VPN connections.

During our tests, we could unblock major streaming services like Netflix without any noticeable speed drops. This makes it an excellent choice for streaming enthusiasts. And ExpressVPN’s no-logs policy, which is backed by a successful audit by PwC and Cure53, assures confidence in the company’s commitment to user privacy.

What we didn’t like

Despite its many strengths, ExpressVPN is not without some drawbacks. The most notable is its pricing. ExpressVPN is at the higher end of the VPN market, especially compared to CyberGhost and Private Internet Access. It also offers only eight simultaneous connections, which may seem limited for the price point.

We also observed a significant reduction in speed during our tests when connected to the Melbourne server. However, this is normal with servers that are so distant, but it may be a concern for users who wish to access Australian content.

We love that ExpressVPN offers so many server countries, but we wish it was upfront about its server count. Furthermore, while the minimalist design of its app is clean, it requires an extra step to access the server list, which could be a slight inconvenience for those who prefer immediate server visibility upon app launch.

ExpressVPN specs

CyberGhost: Best for budget-conscious users

Who it’s best for

CyberGhost is a suitable choice for budget-conscious users who don’t want to lose quality in their VPN. This VPN offers some of the most competitive pricing, making it an excellent choice for students, freelancers, and individuals who don’t wish to break the bank.

Its extensive server network, including a substantial number in Amsterdam, caters to those seeking a Dutch IP address for streaming or browsing. The ease of use and straightforward interface also make it suitable for VPN beginners.

What we liked

What stood out about CyberGhost was its impressive server network, boasting over 10,000 servers worldwide, including 428 in Amsterdam. This extensive range provides a high degree of flexibility and reduces the likelihood of server overloads, ensuring a more stable connection.

CyberGhost also offers dedicated servers for torrenting, gaming, and streaming — most VPNs offer just one of these specialty servers but not all three. CyberGhost’s affordability, coupled with a generous 45-day money-back guarantee, makes it an attractive option for those who are mindful of their budget and want to try a VPN risk free for a prolonged period.

CyberGhost also has a strict zero-logs policy that was successfully audited by Deloitte, so its affordability doesn’t mean you’ll be skimping on privacy.

What we didn’t like

There are areas where CyberGhost could improve. The most significant issue was the noticeable speed drop when connected to the Melbourne server, which could be an issue if you need Australian connections. There were also some difficulties connecting to specific servers, notably in Vancouver, Canada, and Melbourne, Australia, though these were eventually resolved.

Another drawback was the inconsistent performance in unblocking regional streaming service libraries, with some servers failing to access Netflix's regional content. This inconsistency could be frustrating for users who rely on VPNs primarily for streaming purposes.

CyberGhost specs

Private Internet Access: Best for advanced users

Who it’s best for

Private Internet Access is well suited for advanced users who value extensive customization options and detailed settings in their VPN experience. With its wide range of configurable features, it appeals to those who enjoy tailoring their internet security to their specific needs.

Like CyberGhost, Private Internet Access is another affordable VPN service and it allows for unlimited simultaneous connections, so you get the most bang for your buck. Its no-logs policy also makes it attractive for privacy-conscious users on a budget.

What we liked

Private Internet Access has a customizable interface we enjoyed using, where you can move widgets around and set up your home screen as you see fit. Allowing for unlimited connections is a significant plus, particularly if you have multiple devices or need to cover a large household.

PIA's performance in speed tests was commendable, offering acceptable speeds even when connected to distant servers, and its support for popular VPN protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN provides flexibility and security.

Private Internet Access is also a suitable VPN for unblocking streaming services and it supports torrenting on every VPN server. PIA is also coupled with security features like MACE, which blocks ads, trackers, and malware, and two types of kill switches, enhancing its appeal for a wide range of online activities.

What we didn’t like

However, Private Internet Access has limitations. The VPN's interface, while clean, might be less intuitive for beginners due to its advanced features and customization options. We also found that it didn’t provide a tutorial or any tips, so you’ll need to go to its support page for additional help. Those looking for a more straightforward, plug-and-play experience might find PIA's detailed settings overwhelming.

Additionally, while Private Internet Access generally offers good streaming capabilities, we encountered difficulties connecting to the U.K.'s optimized server for Netflix. This inconsistency could be a drawback if you rely on VPNs to stream content from various regions.

Private Internet Access specs

Honorable mentions

While the top three VPNs cater to a range of needs, there are other notable VPNs that surfaced in our research and deserve a mention. While not on our list of the best VPNs for the Netherlands, these services offer unique security features that might better suit you. Here's a brief overview of these VPNs:

• Atlas VPN: Known for its user-friendly interface and affordable pricing, Atlas VPN is a solid choice for those new to VPNs or those seeking a simple, effective solution for basic privacy needs. It even offers a free VPN plan you can try before you commit to a premium subscription.

  Get Atlas VPN | Read Our Atlas VPN Review

• Surfshark VPN: Surfshark is another budget-friendly VPN that allows for unlimited simultaneous connections. It also comes with loads of security features including CleanWeb for ad blocking, rotating IP, double VPN and more.

  Get Surfshark | Read Our Surfshark Review

• NordVPN: A well-known name in the VPN world, NordVPN is recognized for its robust security features, large server network, and consistent performance. It's ideal for users who need high security and ease of use.

  Get NordVPN | Read Our NordVPN Review

How we tested the best VPNs for the Netherlands

To determine the best VPNs for the Netherlands, we focused on several key features that create an optimal VPN experience. These include server availability in the Netherlands, speed performance, streaming service compatibility, security protocols, and privacy policies.

Each feature plays a vital role in ensuring a secure, fast, and reliable VPN service, catering to the diverse needs of users in the Netherlands. Here’s a breakdown of these essential features:

• Server availability in the Netherlands: This is crucial for accessing local Dutch content and ensuring fast connection speeds due to geographical proximity, essential for a smooth online experience in the Netherlands.
• Speed performance: Speed is key for a seamless online experience, especially for activities like streaming and gaming, ensuring minimal buffering and lag.
• Streaming service compatibility: The ability to access region-specific content on streaming platforms like Netflix and Hulu is vital for those looking to enjoy a broad range of international media content.
• No-logs policy: A strong privacy policy ensures that user activity is not recorded or monitored, maintaining user confidentiality and trust in the VPN provider.
• User interface and ease of use: A user-friendly interface is important for a hassle-free experience, especially for those who are not tech savvy, ensuring easy navigation and use.
• Customer support: Reliable customer support provides necessary assistance for setup, troubleshooting, and queries, significantly enhancing the overall user satisfaction. All three options tested have 24/7 customer support options.
• Pricing and money-back guarantee: VPN providers should offer users value for money and a risk-free trial period to test the service, making their service accessible and financially feasible for a wide range of users​​.

Best VPNs for the Netherlands FAQs

Bottom line: The best VPNs for the Netherlands

In our search for the best VPNs for the Netherlands, three services stood out for their unique strengths and capabilities.

With its robust server network and fast streaming capabilities, ExpressVPN emerged as the top choice for those seeking comprehensive online security. CyberGhost was identified as the best option for budget-conscious users, offering a great balance between cost and performance. Private Internet Access, with its focus on advanced customization and detailed settings, proved to be the best choice for tech-savvy users who value granular control over their VPN experience.

3 best VPNs for the Netherlands 2024