Before opting for a VPS server you need to be able to manage a server independently without a control panel. Make sure you check following features from a good VPS provider:
1) VPS Resources: SSD space, RAM & CPU cores offered
2) Control Panel - Check for the control panel offered - Few companies offer a free control panel, however it is an addon service with most of the companies
3) Backups - Check for Backups availability - Only few companies offer a free backup, however it is an addon service with the most of the VPS
4) Policies- Check properly the main policies & terms of service- Some hosts prohibits some kind of websites on VPS
5) Full Root access
6) Money back Guarantee & Technical Support