Start with the reason you need one
Write down what matters to you: device support, privacy, ease of use or a particular location. Avoid paying for a long subscription based only on a headline discount.
Check the full cost
Compare the amount charged today, the length of the subscription and the renewal cost. Read cancellation and refund conditions. A monthly equivalent is not necessarily a monthly payment.
Read beyond the headline
Check who owns the service, its privacy policy, app permissions and available evidence for security claims. If an audit is mentioned, look for the report and understand what it actually examined.
Try everyday use
Can you find the settings you need? Does the connection work reliably on your devices? Can you contact support? We are building our comparison coverage around evidence like this. This guide is a buying checklist, not a provider ranking or a hands-on product review.