In 2024, it’s never too late to seek out the best VPN to secure your online presence. With increasing ISP surveillance and online censorship, safeguarding your digital footprint has become more challenging. Additionally, geo-restrictions continue to frustrate users by limiting access to a broader range of content.
While the internet is an incredible and convenient resource, it also poses significant risks. Personal data is often vulnerable, leading to potential exposure of your privacy. ISPs track your browsing habits, and hackers can exploit your IP address to obtain even more sensitive information through phishing attacks.
Fortunately, our top VPN recommendations can mitigate these concerns. A VPN is engineered to protect your privacy by routing your internet traffic through an intermediary server. This process conceals your IP address and encrypts your data, ensuring a more anonymous online experience.
However, it’s important to note that not all VPN services deliver on this promise. Only the best VPNs can provide the level of security and anonymity you need. So, what are the top VPNs to consider in 2024? Continue reading to find out.
Best VPNs of 2024: A Comprehensive Guide
Here is our definitive list of the most reliable VPN services available.
Our team of experts has rigorously tested each option (with over 110 tests conducted to date), drawing on more than 15 years of experience in the VPN industry. The following services have been carefully ranked based on their performance and reliability.
1. NordVPN – The Best Overall VPN
NordVPN Review
Pros:
- Over 6,400 servers in 110+ countries
- Multiple security audits
- Robust AES-256 encryption
- Obfuscated servers for use in China
- Affordable 2-year plans
- Excellent for streaming and P2P
- Fast speeds thanks to NordLynx protocol
- Meshnet feature for remote control
Cons:
- Occasional connection issues for some users
- No graphical user interface (GUI) on Linux
Verdict:
If you’re seeking the best VPN for 2024 with no compromises, NordVPN is an ideal choice.
Features:
NordVPN stands out as a top-tier paid VPN service, offering a remarkable network of over 6,400 servers in more than 110 countries. It is a preferred choice for those prioritizing privacy and security. Equipped with AES-256 encryption, NordVPN ensures that your online activities remain private, away from the prying eyes of ISPs. The inclusion of Double VPN servers further enhances security by routing your traffic through two servers, providing double layers of encryption.
Threat Protection is another highlight, offering comprehensive defense against ads, malware, and viruses on all devices. With an automatic kill switch, NordVPN effectively prevents IP leaks, while Private DNS servers safeguard against DNS leaks. Based in Panama, NordVPN operates under a strict no-logging policy and has undergone several third-party audits by reputable firms like Deloitte and PwC.
NordVPN is particularly well-suited for streaming and torrenting, delivering an enjoyable experience in both. The NordLynx protocol, combined with 10 Gbps servers, ensures fast and reliable performance. Its P2P servers are optimized for high-speed torrenting, and the service supports access to over 20 Netflix libraries, providing a wealth of content.
Recent improvements include support for 10 simultaneous connections and an expanded global server network. Additionally, NordVPN’s obfuscated servers enable users in restrictive regions like China to bypass deep packet inspection (DPI) and firewall restrictions.
Pricing:
As the leading VPN service in 2024, NordVPN offers competitive pricing. With features like 24/7 live chat support, Smart DNS, Meshnet, and dedicated IPs available in numerous countries, NordVPN delivers exceptional value. The service is compatible with iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, Linux, and even Apple TV. To ensure a risk-free purchase, NordVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, and we recommend taking advantage of the limited-time discount on its 2-year plans.
2. ExpressVPN Review
Pros:
- Unlimited monthly data
- Based in the British Virgin Islands
- Includes split tunneling
- Excellent apps for tvOS and Firestick
- MediaStreamer feature
- Perfect Forward Secrecy
- Router compatibility
Cons:
- Higher pricing compared to competitors
- Lack of Double VPN servers
Verdict:
Ranking just below our top choice, ExpressVPN is an exceptional service known for its speed and stability.
Features:
ExpressVPN is renowned for its top-of-the-line encryption and RAM-based servers, offering unparalleled security. The Lightway protocol is a standout feature, providing a perfect balance of safety and speed, making ExpressVPN as fast as NordVPN. Our testing revealed impressive performance in gaming, streaming on platforms like Hulu, and torrent downloading. The service’s unlimited data and powerful 10 Gbps servers further solidify its status as a leading VPN.
ExpressVPN’s compatibility across devices is exceptional, with each app featuring Advanced Protection to block ads, trackers, and adult content. Split tunneling and a kill switch are standard, ensuring protection against leaks. The VPN’s tvOS app is particularly impressive for streaming, and its support for routers and eight simultaneous connections per subscription enhances its versatility.
ExpressVPN employs Perfect Forward Secrecy, assigning unique encryption keys to each session to prevent data theft. Based in the British Virgin Islands, ExpressVPN benefits from favorable privacy laws, ensuring no traffic logs or personal data are stored. The service has also undergone numerous security audits, further affirming its commitment to user privacy.
Pricing:
The only notable drawback is ExpressVPN’s premium pricing, which may be prohibitive for some users. However, a special offer is available, providing three free months with the annual plan, resulting in a 49% discount. Additionally, ExpressVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to test the service with minimal risk.
3. Private Internet Access – Ideal for Budget-Conscious VPN Users
Pros
- Extremely affordable 2-year plan
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- PIA MACE for ad blocking
- No-logs policy verified in court
- Multiple proxies (Shadowsocks/SOCKS5)
- DNS leak protection
Cons
- No dedicated Firestick app
- Not functional in China
Private Internet Access (PIA) ranks among the top Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) in 2024, particularly appealing to users seeking a cost-effective solution.
Features
PIA stands out as one of the largest VPN providers, boasting over 30,000 servers across nearly 100 countries. While it may not be the fastest VPN available, PIA excels in security. It adheres to a strict no-logs policy and offers advanced security features, including bank-grade encryption and port forwarding.
The inclusion of WireGuard, with options for custom ports and protocol customization, enhances user experience. PIA’s MACE function, a highly effective ad blocker, is another notable feature. Additionally, PIA is torrent-friendly, a characteristic we have come to appreciate after years of use.
While PIA supports streaming on a select few Netflix catalogs, its strength lies in its logging practices. Despite being based in the U.S., PIA is a no-log VPN, a claim substantiated by an audit conducted by Deloitte. Moreover, PIA has demonstrated its commitment to privacy in court, where authorities were unable to obtain any user data.
PIA VPN is an excellent choice for users who prefer using a VPN on routers or those seeking a user-friendly solution for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, or Android devices. Despite its low price, PIA offers unlimited simultaneous connections, 24/7 live chat support, and a comprehensive suite of features, including RAM-only servers, DNS leak protection, split tunneling, a kill switch, and Shadowsocks/SOCKS5 proxies.
Currently, PIA is not operational in China, a distinction held by competitors like NordVPN and ExpressVPN. However, its affordability, reliability, security, and privacy make Private Internet Access a popular choice worldwide and a strong contender in the VPN market.
Price
PIA is among the most cost-effective VPN options available, with a 2-year plan priced at approximately $2 per month, including a few additional free months. The service also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans, making it a risk-free option for testing and use.
4. Proton VPN – Premier Choice for Privacy and Zero Logging
Pros
- Swiss-based privacy
- 6,400+ servers worldwide
- Onion over VPN support
- Effective for streaming and torrenting
- Port forwarding
- Free plan with unlimited traffic
Cons
- Does not work in heavily censored countries
- Smart DNS is not supported
Proton VPN is widely regarded as the premier VPN for privacy.
Features
Proton VPN’s appeal lies in its Swiss jurisdiction and a verified no-logs policy. It offers a range of unique features, including Secure Core servers, Stealth VPN, and support for OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols.
One of Proton VPN’s standout features is its free plan, which includes unlimited traffic. Paid users, however, enjoy additional benefits. The VPN offers fast connection speeds, bolstered by the VPN Accelerator feature. With bank-grade encryption and the NetShield ad blocker, Proton VPN provides comprehensive protection against ads and threats.
Proton VPN’s extensive server network is another key advantage, with over 6,400 10 Gbps servers spread across 100 countries. These servers are optimized for streaming and fully support P2P activities in any location. The VPN also offers Onion over VPN servers, enabling private browsing on the dark web via Tor.
With no traffic limitations, Proton VPN is also suitable for gaming, even on mobile devices. The service allows up to 10 simultaneous connections, protecting all your devices with feature-rich and user-friendly apps.
Proton VPN’s port forwarding feature enhances torrent download speeds. It can be installed on Fire TV Stick, offering a free app for this platform that allows for endless streaming of movies and series.
However, Proton VPN lacks Smart DNS and its performance, while excellent, does not quite reach the level of top-rated VPNs like NordVPN or ExpressVPN.
Price
Proton VPN is reasonably priced, with a 2-year plan costing approximately $3.6 per month. However, it is slightly more expensive than options like Private Internet Access. NordVPN, at a similar price point, offers slightly better value, which is why it ranks higher.
Proton VPN’s lack of functionality in China, despite its Stealth protocol, limits its appeal to users in censored regions. For a VPN in this price range, improvements in this area would be welcome.
5. Surfshark – Optimal for Protecting Unlimited Devices
Pros
- NoBorders feature adds obfuscation
- Compatible with Netflix and Prime Video
- Offers numerous Static IP addresses
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- RAM-only servers
Cons
- Not the fastest VPN in 2024
- Lacks discounts on monthly plans
For seamless, anonymous browsing, Surfshark is a leading choice.
Features
Surfshark offers robust security features, including MultiHop and 256-bit encryption, making it a standout option. The NoBorders feature adds obfuscation, enabling Surfshark to bypass stringent firewalls, including those in China.
One of Surfshark’s key advantages is the ability to connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously. Additionally, the IP Rotation feature, which rotates your IP address while maintaining your online location, further enhances security.
Surfshark is an excellent VPN for streaming, with the ability to unblock over 30 Netflix libraries and platforms like Hulu, Prime Video, and MAX. It is also one of the few VPNs to offer Static IP addresses as standard, a feature rarely found among top-tier providers.
The VPN supports WireGuard, ensuring stable performance. While it may not be the fastest VPN, it excels in gaming and torrenting, according to our tests. Surfshark’s One plan, available at a slightly higher cost, includes additional features like Antivirus and a private browser for tracking-free online browsing.
Although registered in the Netherlands, within the 14 Eyes jurisdiction, Surfshark adheres to a strict no-logs policy, supported by numerous audits. The VPN utilizes RAM-only servers and does not log IP addresses or DNS queries.
Price
Surfshark offers flexible and affordable pricing options suitable for most users. While dedicated IP addresses are slightly more expensive, NordVPN remains a better choice in this regard. However, as one of the top-rated VPNs, Surfshark’s minor drawbacks are easily overlooked.
For around $2 per month, you can access this highly-rated service and enjoy all its features. While it may not surpass NordVPN, it is worth noting that Surfshark has merged with NordVPN, leading to significant improvements on both sides.
6. CyberGhost – Ideal VPN for Streaming and Torrenting
Pros:
- Supports WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols
- Offers affordable antivirus software for computers
- Provides dedicated IP addresses
- Optimized for P2P and streaming on various devices
- Features NoSpy servers owned by CyberGhost
Cons:
- Does not offer obfuscated servers
- Longer connection times with OpenVPN
Overview:
CyberGhost is an excellent choice for users seeking a cost-effective VPN without compromising on quality.
Features:
CyberGhost provides a vast array of dedicated servers optimized for streaming and torrenting, ensuring seamless access to platforms like Hotstar from anywhere. Headquartered in Romania, CyberGhost operates under a strict no-logs policy, safeguarding user privacy. The service is known for its transparency, regularly publishing transparency reports. CyberGhost’s NoSpy servers further enhance privacy, and the VPN’s performance is bolstered by the impeccable implementation of WireGuard.
The service offers unlimited bandwidth, making it suitable for gaming even on distant servers. While it lacks obfuscation, which might not make it the best option for users in China, it compensates with robust security features like 256-bit AES encryption and a reliable kill switch to prevent IP leaks.
CyberGhost also provides dedicated IP addresses in over 21 locations at a competitive price. Additionally, its Smart DNS feature enhances streaming capabilities, with IP addresses available in multiple locations. An integrated ad blocker adds an extra layer of convenience, especially on streaming and gambling sites. With support for up to 7 simultaneous connections, CyberGhost is a solid option, though it may fall short of the connection limit offered by top competitors like NordVPN.
In summary, CyberGhost stands out for its user-friendly interface, dependable customer support, and commitment to transparency, making it one of our top VPN recommendations. For more detailed insights, refer to our comprehensive review of CyberGhost.
Pricing:
CyberGhost offers some of the most competitive long-term pricing in the market, accompanied by a generous 45-day money-back guarantee. Subscribers gain access to over 12,000 servers, with an optional antivirus available for an additional $1 per month. Even with the antivirus included, the total cost remains below $3.50 per month, offering exceptional value.
7. Hide.me – Best for Advanced Security Features
Pros:
- 256-bit AES encryption with 8192-bit keys
- Compatible with BBC iPlayer
- MultiHop for dual-layer encryption
- Affordable long-term plans
Cons:
- Free plan restricts P2P activity
- Limited server network
Overview:
Hide.me has made significant strides in enhancing its service, positioning itself as a strong contender in the VPN market.
Features:
Operating under the jurisdiction of Malaysia, Hide.me benefits from an offshore location, allowing it to maintain a strict no-logs policy. It supports a range of secure protocols, including WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2, and SoftEther. The use of 8192-bit keys for AES-256 encryption ensures top-tier security, making it virtually impossible to trace online activities, even against sophisticated threats.
Recent improvements have made Hide.me a viable option for streaming services like Netflix and BBC iPlayer, as well as for torrenting, thanks to its high-speed servers. Hide.me is particularly strong in security, offering features such as dynamic port forwarding, IP leak protection, and MultiHop for added encryption. The SmartGuard feature, while slightly less comprehensive than NordVPN’s CyberSec, effectively blocks ads, trackers, and malicious sites.
With a network of approximately 2,400 servers in 90 locations, Hide.me’s server count is modest compared to some competitors. However, it compensates with 10 simultaneous connections and well-optimized applications for both desktop and mobile platforms.
Pricing:
Hide.me offers a free plan with commendable security features, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious users. The premium plans have become more affordable over time, with the most cost-effective option priced at under $3 per month. Given its robust feature set, Hide.me is a VPN worth considering.
8. IPVanish – Best for User-Friendly Applications
Pros:
- Includes Threat Protection
- Supports SOCKS5 proxy
- Unlimited device connections
- Excellent P2P performance
Cons:
- Lacks advanced security features
- No refund policy for the monthly plan
- Previous issues with logging
Overview:
IPVanish may not be the most feature-rich VPN on this list, but it excels in simplicity and ease of use.
Features:
While IPVanish may not lead in speed or performance, it offers a stable connection with over 2,400 servers in nearly 100 locations. Although its streaming capabilities are somewhat limited, it performs well for torrenting. The recent addition of Threat Protection has improved its service by blocking trackers, ads, and malicious sites, though it does not offer full malware protection.
IPVanish’s applications are intuitive, though they could benefit from a modern update. Despite this, the VPN provides ample server options in the U.S. for streaming Netflix and Hulu. Although the service had a history of logging under previous ownership, it has since undergone an external audit, confirming its no-logs policy and reinforcing its reputation as a safe VPN choice.
Advanced features are limited, but IPVanish does include essential security tools such as a kill switch, IP/DNS leak protection, and split tunneling. The inclusion of a SOCKS5 proxy is a bonus, particularly for those focused on torrenting. Additionally, IPVanish supports unlimited device connections, making it a leader in device compatibility.
Pricing:
IPVanish does not offer a free plan, but its 24-month subscription at under $3 per month is competitively priced. However, it is important to note that the monthly plan does not come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, which could be a drawback for some users. Nonetheless, IPVanish remains a solid option for those seeking a straightforward and reliable VPN service.
9. TunnelBear – Best for Teams
Pros
- User-friendly and visually appealing VPN application
- Offers a dedicated VPN solution for teams
- GhostBear feature masks VPN traffic for enhanced privacy
- Free plan available
Cons
- Speeds are slower than anticipated
- Unable to bypass the Great Firewall of China
- Limited free plan with only 2 GB of monthly bandwidth
TunnelBear is widely recognized as a popular free VPN option.
Features
Unfortunately, the free plan offers only average performance, with no noteworthy features. The paid version provides unlimited bandwidth and somewhat improved speeds, though still below expectations. Notably, TunnelBear’s interface is aesthetically pleasing, featuring engaging in-app animations and a charming bear mascot. The VPN is compatible with macOS, Windows, iOS, and Android, though it does not support other devices.
TunnelBear has undergone multiple audits confirming its no-logs policy. Despite being a Canadian VPN, user data does not remain on its servers. The VPN includes a kill switch for additional security, along with GhostBear, which helps bypass restrictive firewalls.
However, TunnelBear consistently struggles to function in China, and its server network, consisting of just over 3,000 servers across approximately 50 countries, pales in comparison to competitors like NordVPN or ExpressVPN, which offer servers in over 100 countries.
On the positive side, TunnelBear allows unlimited simultaneous connections and supports P2P in its paid version. However, streaming performance is below average, with Netflix and Prime Video often facing difficulties.
Pricing
TunnelBear offers affordable pricing for its plans, with 1-year and 3-year options costing just over $3.30 per month. Additionally, it provides special “Teams” plans for businesses. While a free plan is available, the limited 2 GB of monthly bandwidth makes it impractical for regular use.
10. Hotspot Shield – Best for Live Sports Streaming
Pros
- Utilizes the Hydra VPN protocol
- Supports a wide range of devices
- DNS Filter to block unwanted websites
Cons
- Based in the US, raising potential privacy concerns
- Lacks a graphical user interface (GUI) on Linux
- Free version has questionable logging practices
Hotspot Shield features a modern and visually appealing VPN application for Windows.
Features
While Hotspot Shield may not be our top choice for premium VPNs, it offers several notable features, including an automatic kill switch, military-grade encryption, and split tunneling capabilities.
One significant advantage for users is the Hydra protocol, an in-house development based on OpenVPN TLS, delivering impressive performance and added obfuscation. While our tests revealed it struggles in China, it effectively bypasses milder firewalls.
Hotspot Shield is particularly effective for streaming and live sports, with fast torrenting capabilities and unlimited bandwidth that enhances the user experience. The paid version boasts over 3,200 servers across 70+ countries.
Additionally, Hotspot Shield supports routers, providing an added layer of protection for gaming consoles. It allows for 10 simultaneous connections and has a Linux version, although Proton VPN offers a more user-friendly GUI for Linux users.
As a leading VPN provider, Hotspot Shield includes built-in phishing protection, Tor over VPN support, and a DNS Filter for blocking specific sites. Its split tunneling feature is branded as Smart VPN, and the VPN maintains a no-logs policy, except for the free version, which has been known to store logs and potentially sell user data through targeted ads in mobile applications.
Given its US-based jurisdiction, it is subject to the 5 Eyes alliance, and its history includes some logging incidents, raising concerns about user privacy.
Pricing
While Hotspot Shield’s pricing is on the higher side for the features offered, its 45-day refund policy is commendable. However, its cost of just under $8 per month may not be justified, placing it lower in our rankings of the best VPNs for 2024.
How We Tested and Ranked the Best VPNs in 2024
Our team of cybersecurity experts rigorously tested a wide range of VPN services, evaluating hundreds to identify the best options available in 2024. We are committed to transparency and are pleased to share our testing methodology to assist you in selecting the top VPNs this year.
Security, Privacy, and Reputation
The leading paid VPNs in 2024 have established exceptional reputations as highly secure options. Notable providers such as NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access (PIA) adhere to strict no-logs policies and have undergone audits by prestigious firms including PwC, Deloitte, Cure53, and KPMG.
These VPNs employ top-tier encryption standards, with a minimum of 256-bit encryption. Our top selections have demonstrated a commitment to user privacy by ensuring that no logs are retained, and they offer advanced features such as kill switches, DNS leak protection, RAM-only servers, and Private DNS.
Streaming and Torrenting
Streaming capability is a critical factor for many leading VPN services. NordVPN ranks as the top VPN for streaming, providing access to a wide array of Netflix libraries and other popular platforms.
In addition, NordVPN offers thousands of P2P servers, ensuring anonymous, fast, and stable torrenting, making it our top choice for this purpose as well. All our recommended VPNs are equipped with robust 10 Gbps servers, allowing users to fully leverage their internet speed, resulting in low latency and excellent performance for streaming, torrenting, and gaming.
Performance
Our top VPN selections for 2024 excel in performance, with NordVPN and ExpressVPN at the forefront, closely followed by PIA and Surfshark. This performance is crucial for ensuring a seamless browsing experience, even when connected to distant servers.
To provide you with the fastest VPN options for every device, our experts conducted extensive testing across thousands of servers.
Server Locations
We highly value VPNs with extensive server networks. NordVPN boasts servers in over 110 countries, totaling more than 6,400 servers, while PIA offers an impressive 30,000+ servers. CyberGhost provides over 12,000 servers, and Proton VPN has a fleet of 6,400+ servers.
These services have diverse server locations, including robust offerings in the United States, with NordVPN providing 2,000 servers and PIA offering servers in every American state. This diversity reflects the quality and reliability of these services.
However, it is important to note that a large server network does not always equate to high-quality VPN service. The quality of the servers can be more significant than the sheer number.
Bypassing Censorship
Navigating stringent censorship can be challenging, but our recommended VPNs are adept at overcoming these barriers.
We tested all our selections in countries with heavy censorship, including China, Russia, Turkey, and the UAE. While some VPNs may struggle to function in China, the majority perform effectively.
NordVPN stands out as a notable option, with ExpressVPN and Surfshark also excelling due to their obfuscation techniques that mask user traffic. These features enable these VPNs to bypass Deep Packet Inspection, providing users with a secure internet experience.
With these services, you can confidently access blocked sites, regardless of your location.
Compatibility & Ease of Use
Our VPN services are compatible with a wide range of devices, ensuring you can connect effortlessly. While devices like refrigerators may not support our VPNs, the following devices do:
- iOS
- Android
- Windows
- macOS
- Linux
- Routers
- Gaming consoles
- Smart TVs
- Fire TV Stick
- Apple TV, among many others.
Most leading VPNs offer at least seven simultaneous connections, with options like PIA, Surfshark, IPVanish, and TunnelBear allowing for unlimited connections per account. Each service is designed for user-friendliness, featuring one-click connections for secure online access.
Customer Service
In our evaluation process, customer support was a crucial factor. NordVPN, our top-rated VPN, stands out with its 24/7 live chat support, along with other prominent services like ExpressVPN, PIA, and CyberGhost. Reliable customer support is essential for promptly resolving issues, ensuring that assistance is available whenever needed.
Price (Affordability)
The best VPN services in 2024 are surprisingly affordable, with monthly costs ranging from $2 to $6.8—roughly equivalent to the price of a coffee at Starbucks. Many providers offer money-back guarantees and free trials, making them appealing and low-risk options.
Take NordVPN, for example, our top provider, which costs just over $3 per month while delivering extensive benefits. For less than the price of a coffee, you gain invaluable online protection.
Why We Avoid Free VPN Providers
We have a separate guide discussing the drawbacks of free VPNs. Our team prefers the best paid VPNs due to their comprehensive features. Free services often limit bandwidth, exhibit slower speeds, and typically lack robust security measures. Additionally, they may retain logs of your IP address, location, traffic destination, and social media-related data.
Low-quality, entirely free options like Hola VPN or Urban VPN are known to log this information, leading to privacy concerns. Streaming and torrenting can also be problematic with free services, which may intentionally block P2P traffic and often do not support popular platforms like Netflix or BBC iPlayer.
Moreover, many free VPNs offer limited server locations and lack essential features such as WireGuard, kill switches, and adequate app support. They are not suitable choices for those seeking a premium experience. However, we encourage exploration of these options, with caution regarding their limitations in simultaneous connections and customer support.
Conclusion
As we conclude our overview of the ten best VPN services for 2024, it’s clear that these recommendations are based on their performance and our extensive experience. NordVPN ranks at the top due to its outstanding performance, robust security, and excellent streaming and P2P capabilities.
It is an industry leader and a premium service worth considering. While ExpressVPN’s higher price may deter some users, it offers impressive security features, extensive compatibility, and rapid 10 Gbps servers.
Private Internet Access also deserves mention as one of the most popular VPNs both in the US and internationally, offering unlimited connections, advanced security, and reliable streaming options. Other contenders have unique qualities worth exploring based on your specific needs.