Mozilla just went live with their VPN
https://vpn.mozilla.org/
FWIW, it might be worth a shot?
VPN experiences so far (seeking recommendations)
Re: VPN experiences so far (seeking recommendations)
I also use NordVPN and really am glad to have it. They are experienced, have a lot of features and also guarantee high privacy and protection. Additionally most of the streaming services work with it. That's not self-evident these days, most of Netflix etc. block VPNs and you can't watch anything. Speed and stability are also good, you don't have disruptions. There are some other pros, but you can read them in detail: https://vpn-anbieter-vergleich-test.de/nordvpn/. But I also heard vom friends that VyprVPN and Surfshark are great choices. If you are looking for a rather small but really very very into the privacy of users service OVPN would be your choice. It does a lot on the technical side to ensure users are safe. And its also fast due to WireGuard protocoll. Hope that helps, if you have any questions just ask 

Re: VPN experiences so far (seeking recommendations)
I really think that there is nothing better than ProtonVPN
Re: VPN experiences so far (seeking recommendations)
Quick update on the Mozilla VPN -- I tested the available VPN exceptions for local connections and was able to use that without issue for file exchange and remote desktop (RDP) connections.
Some issues I've had with the service:
1. I occasionally need to change servers
2. Modifying the list of 5 allowed devices was confusing (revoke? disconnect?)
3. There was a recent update notice but clicking on it or manually updating the client didn't seem to resolve the notice.
4. Last week saw a recent spike in CPU for the client. Restarting my machine seemed to resolve the issue.
5. Would like to see an easy way to expand that to 10 devices or more, but right now it looks like you need to sign up for a second account.
These are minor issues compared to others tested, and I'm still happy with the service so far.
Wishlist:
* Ability to run it on the router level like ExpressVPN. Would definitely pay a premium for that.
* As noted earlier, an optional feature to disable Internet whenever the VPN is not active. If due to a server issue, should first try a different connection when a server drops.
Some issues I've had with the service:
1. I occasionally need to change servers
2. Modifying the list of 5 allowed devices was confusing (revoke? disconnect?)
3. There was a recent update notice but clicking on it or manually updating the client didn't seem to resolve the notice.
4. Last week saw a recent spike in CPU for the client. Restarting my machine seemed to resolve the issue.
5. Would like to see an easy way to expand that to 10 devices or more, but right now it looks like you need to sign up for a second account.
These are minor issues compared to others tested, and I'm still happy with the service so far.
Wishlist:
* Ability to run it on the router level like ExpressVPN. Would definitely pay a premium for that.
* As noted earlier, an optional feature to disable Internet whenever the VPN is not active. If due to a server issue, should first try a different connection when a server drops.
As mentioned in the initial post, I tried ProtonVPN with their basic package and had issues. I have been following the Proton team for some time now and I'm impressed by some things they're putting together, so it's something I'd be willing to come back to.