The Best Mobile VPN Apps in 2025

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Getting the best mobile VPN is essential to prevent data leaks, ensure your privacy and security online, and unlock geo-specific content on your smartphone.

Our phones are our gateway to the world, allowing us to stay connected, informed, and entertained. All these activities require the transfer of user data, which can be intercepted and exploited. Cybercriminals and hostile third parties could be collecting and selling your personal information, leaving you open to identity theft and fraud. Because of this, finding the best VPN app for your mobile device is critical.

I’ve conducted an in-depth comparison of the best mobile VPNs for Android and iPhones for this guide after testing a longlist of 20 providers. By exploring their interfaces, features, performance, and pricing, I’ll help you pick the best mobile VPN app for your needs.

NordVPN – Best Mobile VPN Overall

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Surfshark – Best Cheap Mobile VPN

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ExpressVPN – Best Mobile Phone VPN for Security

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PureVPN – Best Phone VPN for Speed

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Proton VPN – Best Free Mobile VPN

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CyberGhost VPN – Best VPN for Mobile for Streaming

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PrivadoVPN – Best VPN App for Beginners

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IPVanish – Best Smartphone VPN for Server Information

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The Best Mobile VPN Apps in 2025 Tested by Our Experts

  1. NordVPN – Best mobile VPN overall, with a huge global server network
  2. Surfshark – Best cheap mobile VPN, offering lightning-fast connections
  3. ExpressVPN – Best mobile phone VPN for security, including a proprietary protocol
  4. PureVPN – Best phone VPN for speed with numerous security add-ons
  5. Proton VPN – Best free mobile VPN service with unlimited bandwidth
  6. CyberGhost – Best VPN for mobile for streaming around the world
  7. PrivadoVPN – Best VPN app for beginners, offering intuitive apps
  8. IPVanish – Best smartphone VPN for server information

What Is a Mobile VPN?

A mobile VPN is a privacy and security application for your smartphone that protects and anonymizes your internet activity and online data. It establishes a secure, encrypted tunnel from your mobile device to the internet via a VPN server. All the data that travels via this secure tunnel is encrypted, making it unreadable to your ISP, advertisers, the government, and malicious third parties.

Why Do I Need a Mobile VPN Provider?

Whether you’re at home, on the move, or simply surfing the web, a VPN can ensure your online activities remain private and secure.

If you don’t use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) service, your network provider (ISP) and government can easily track your IP address and internet activity. Advertisers and malicious actors can also track your internet use, building up a profile of your online activities that can then be used to target you.

Using a VPN means you can anonymize your internet connection and encrypt your data. This is a great first step for protecting your privacy and security and can help shield you from surveillance and cyber-attacks. This is especially important when using unsecured public Wi-Fi networks, which may otherwise leave you vulnerable to man-in-the-middle attacks.

VPNs also allow you to access the internet as if you were in a different country, enabling you to bypass censorship and geo-restrictions. This enables you to access services that are restricted in your territory so you can enjoy different Netflix libraries and read foreign news sites.

You may be wondering, “Do I need a VPN on my phone?” If you could benefit from increased security, protection from hackers and eavesdropping, and the ability to privately access content from around the world, then the answer is yes. I rate NordVPN as the best mobile VPN you can buy today, thanks to its excellent apps and security and huge global server network.

The Best Mobile VPN Apps Reviewed

Based on our comprehensive testing methodology, I’ve assessed 20 of the top VPN providers to create a shortlist of the best VPNs to secure your mobile device, whether it’s an Android or iOS phone. Read on as I review each provider in detail, outlining their strengths, weaknesses, security functionality, and pricing plans.

1. NordVPN – Best Mobile VPN Overall

NordVPN logo

Current Deal $3.39/month
Free Plan / Trial 7-day trial on Android
Max Devices 10
Server Network 7,100+ servers in 118+ countries

Why We Picked It

Based on my testing, NordVPN is the best VPN for mobile devices, thanks to its exceptional speed and robust security features. With the proprietary NordLynx protocol, users can enjoy fast connections and improved online data security, whether using mobile data or public networks. This makes it perfect for browsing, streaming, and gaming on the go.

Features

NordVPN offers an array of features specifically designed to enhance the mobile user experience and online security. One of the standout features is its fast and secure encryption. This is especially helpful when using public Wi-Fi, where risks are heightened. The provider also uses top-grade AES-256 encryption and a lightweight NordLynx protocol, which maintained speeds of up to 930Mbps during my tests. Additionally, there’s a no-log policy, which guarantees that none of the user data is being stored.

There’s also an excellent VPN app for most popular operating systems, like Android, iOS, and Windows phones. The NordVPN mobile interface is straightforward, allowing users to connect to servers worldwide with just a few taps. You can choose from over 7,100 servers, optimizing your connection speed and performance for on-the-go activities like streaming or browsing.

The built-in ad blocker, CyberSec, effectively removes intrusive ads and prevents malware, enhancing both speed and security. Additionally, split tunneling enables mobile users to decide which apps use the VPN connection and which can need to access the internet directly.

Pricing

NordVPN offers affordable pricing, starting at $3.39/month. With a single subscription, you can secure up to ten devices. However, if you want well-rounded mobile protection, I recommend checking out the Plus plan ($4.39/month). This plan includes antimalware and ad blocker tools, plus a free password manager.

Android mobile users can also access a free 7-day trial by downloading the app from the Google Play store. You can also extend the trial period with the 30-day money-back guarantee.

Who It’s Best For

NordVPN offers an excellent service, and I rate it as the best provider on the market. If you want the top package available today, then NordVPN is the best mobile VPN you can buy. The lightweight NordLynx protocol also makes it a great VPN for mobile data.

For more information, read our NordVPN review.

Pros

  • Advanced security features
  • 10 simultaneous connections
  • Lightning-fast connection speeds
  • RAM-only servers for complete privacy
  • 7-day free trial for Android users

Cons

  • No free plan

 

2. Surfshark – Best Cheap Mobile VPN

Surfshark VPN logo

Current Deal $2.19/month
Free Plan / Trial 7-day trial on Android, iOS, and macOS
Max Devices Unlimited
Server Network 3,200+ servers in 100+ countries

Why We Picked It

Surfshark is one of the cheapest mobile VPNs around, but it offers superb value for money and highly intuitive mobile apps. In addition, the provider allows you to simultaneously connect an unlimited number of devices, making it perfect for families and households with numerous devices.

Features

Surfshark is a good choice for mobile users, offering a wealth of features designed to enhance their online experience without breaking the bank. Praised for its affordability, Surfshark provides top-tier security through AES-256 encryption and the efficient WireGuard protocol, ensuring fast and secure connections, both on private and public Wi-Fi networks. It also operates on RAM-only servers and implements a strong no-log policy.

Its user-friendly app allows for seamless navigation. It took me less than a minute to find the server location I was looking for and get connected. Plus, there’s a robust kill switch, which will cut off your internet in case the VPN connection fails.

You’ll also find features like Multihop, which routes traffic through two servers for added security, a CleanWeb, an ad and malware blocker, and an Alternative ID feature that helps you to set up a brand new online identity. They significantly enhance the browsing experience by enhancing online security and eliminating distractions.

Lastly, Surfshark supports unlimited simultaneous connections, allowing you to protect all your gadgets, not just your phone.

Pricing

Surfshark’s prices start at just $2.19/month, making it significantly cheaper than ExpressVPN or Proton VPN. However, the entry plan is fairly basic and only adds an alternative ID feature with the VPN.

To get the most out of Surfshark and guarantee the best mobile device security, I recommend opting for its Surfshark One plan ($2.69/month), which includes an antivirus solution and can protect your mobile device from malicious files 24/7. There’s also a 7-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to test the service.

Who It’s Best For

Surfshark has a lot going for it, given the amount of value it delivers and its low cost. Because of this, it’s ideal for individuals looking for an affordable, high-quality service. With coverage for unlimited simultaneous connections, it’s also a great option for families and businesses.

For more information, read our Surfshark review.

Pros

  • Allows unlimited connections
  • Intuitive mobile apps
  • Packed with advanced features
  • Cheap subscriptions
  • 7-day free trial is available

Cons

  • iOS app lacks some secondary features
  • Based in the Netherlands (14 Eyes Alliance)

3. ExpressVPN – Best Mobile Phone VPN for Security

ExpressVPN logo

Current Deal $4.99/month
Free Plan / Trial 7-day trial on Android and iOS
Max Devices 8
Server Network 3,000+ servers in 105+ countries

Why We Picked It

ExpressVPN stands out as a highly secure VPN app for Android and iOS devices. With a strong commitment to user privacy and a first-class set of security features, including the Lightway protocol, AES-256 encryption, TrustedServer, and RAM-only servers, ExpressVPN is a highly reliable VPN for mobile users.

Features

ExpressVPN is well-suited for mobile users because of its robust combination of security and ease of use. Like NordVPN, ExpressVPN offers its own Lightway protocol, ensuring fast and secure connections. After testing it on my Samsung phone, I can confirm that speeds were great when connected to nearby servers, making it ideal for streaming and browsing, even on mobile data.

The provider’s strict no-logging policy has been court-approved, guaranteeing that your online activities and personal data are not stored. ExpressVPN also employs TrustedServer technology and RAM-only servers, which are wiped clean of data after every reboot. There’s also a free password manager for even more well-versed security.

The mobile VPN app’s interface is intuitive and very clean, with a massive power button that will connect you to the most optimal server automatically once you click on it.

Additionally, the split tunneling feature lets you choose which apps use the VPN and which connect directly to the internet, optimizing performance for online gaming and streaming services. I found this particularly helpful for maintaining a stable connection while using my favorite apps or accessing banking sites.

Pricing

Unlike other providers, ExpressVPN has a single VPN plan, which drops in price per month with longer-term subscriptions. Subscriptions start at $4.99/month with the current offer. You’ll also get an additional 4 months of services for free. Alternatively, you can test the service with a 7-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Who It’s Best For

ExpressVPN is a great pick for mobile users looking for a premium service that can provide you with complete confidence about the security of your internet connection. ExpressVPN offers a very strong package for mobile, and I rank it as the best app for VPN for security.

For more information, read our ExpressVPN review.

Pros

  • Blocks ads, trackers, and infected websites
  • Includes a password manager
  • Servers operate on RAM
  • 7-day free trial for mobile users

Cons

  • Relatively pricey
  • No free plan

 

4. PureVPN – Best Phone VPN for Speed

PureVPN logo

Current Deal $2.14/month
Free Plan / Trial 7-day trial for $0.99
Max Devices 10
Server Network 6,000+ servers in 65+ countries

Why We Picked It

PureVPN offers fast and secure connections for any Android or iOS device. In my testing, I found that its 20Gbps servers, solid connection speeds, and top-notch in-app security measures guaranteed online protection and performance.

Features

PureVPN utilizes the AES-256 encryption – renowned for its reliability and trusted by governmental bodies worldwide. It provides a range of tunneling protocols, such as WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2, ensuring versatile options for users. While WireGuard offers fast speeds, it may not suit everyone, though, due to its limitations in supporting certain features, including split tunneling.

PureVPN adheres to a strict no-logs policy – independently audited by Altius IT and KPM – and operates from a privacy-friendly jurisdiction. While PureVPN has faced previous incidents where user data was leaked to the FBI, it has adopted an Always-On Audit system to avoid potential incidents.

Performance-wise, I was impressed with PureVPN’s 20Gbs servers. These were nearly twice as fast as its regular hardware, reaching speeds of up to 900Mbps in my tests. As a result, streaming Netflix US from Europe was smooth from start to finish, even in 4K resolution.

Additionally, the obfuscation feature allows for secure connections without disclosing VPN usage. Furthermore, users can enhance their subscription with a password manager or a Dedicated IP feature for a monthly fee.

Pricing

PureVPN is an affordable VPN for mobile devices, with prices starting at $2.14/month. A single subscription allows you to connect up to ten devices simultaneously and includes a tracker blocker.

While the entry plan is a good offer, the Plus plan offers better mobile security, with an added free password manager and file encryption service. Though there’s no free plan, you can test the service for seven days for $0.99, or you can use the 31-day money-back guarantee.

Who It’s Best For

PureVPN is a great pick for users prioritizing high-speed connections, and it offers some of the best privacy features available. The product is also reasonably priced compared to its competitors, and I found it to be very reliable in my testing.

For more information, read our PureVPN review.

Pros

  • Over 6,500 servers worldwide
  • Independently audited no-logs policy
  • Can be audited at any time without prior notice
  • 31-day money-back guarantee

Cons

  • Certain features don’t work with WireGuard
  • Trial week isn’t free

 

5. Proton VPN – Best Free Mobile VPN

Proton VPN logo

Current Deal $3.59/month
Free Plan Yes, with unlimited bandwidth
Max Devices 10
Server Network 11,100+ servers in 110+ countries

Why We Picked It

Proton VPN is a great option if you’re looking for a reliable free VPN app. This premium VPN offers one of the best free plans I’ve tested, giving you unlimited monthly data and connection speeds and VPN servers in five countries.

Features

Proton VPN employs two different encryption ciphers based on your chosen tunneling protocol. If you opt for a WireGuard tunnel, your data is shielded by the top-notch ChaCha20 cipher. As for other protocols, the VPN relies on the AES-256 cipher to ensure robust protection.

Considering that Proton VPN also offers a free plan, reviewing its privacy policy is essential. The provider has subjected its no-logs policy to independent scrutiny conducted by Securitum. What I love most about Proton, though, is that its code base is open-source, ensuring potential vulnerabilities are discovered and addressed quickly.

The free version of Proton VPN offers essential features like a kill switch, an obfuscation tool for hiding your VPN activity, and an ad blocker to fend off adware. However, you’ll need to upgrade to a premium plan for advanced functionality such as VPN Accelerator, Secure Core, or split tunneling.

Pricing

Proton VPN offers both free and paid plans. With a free plan, you can only connect one device at a time and only get a limited number of servers. The paid plan offers protection for up to ten devices at once and access to Proton’s full network for $3.59/month. You can also use a 30-day money-back guarantee to try the premium features risk-free.

Who It’s Best For

If you’re looking for the best free phone VPN, Proton VPN is ideal. There’s plenty more on offer if you upgrade, though, and the paid plan has great coverage and features. That said, if you just want to test a mobile VPN, I recommend NordVPN’s 7-day Android trial.

For more information, read our Proton VPN review.

Pros

  • Free plan includes an ad blocker
  • Unlimited monthly data
  • Open-source VPN service
  • Paid plan unblocks popular streaming services

Cons

  • Free servers only in 5 countries
  • Premium plans are quite expensive

 

6. CyberGhost VPN – Best VPN for Mobile for Streaming

CyberGhost VPN logo

Current Deal $2.19/month
Free Plan / Trial Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android trials
Max Devices 7
Server Network 11,700+ servers in 100+ countries

Why We Picked It

CyberGhost offers a first-class VPN that’s great for streaming on mobile devices. With over 11,700 servers in more than 100 countries and specialized streaming servers, I’ve found that the provider can consistently unblock any streaming service you like.

Features

CyberGhost offers dedicated streaming servers optimized to unblock specific platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and HBO Max. These worked as intended during my tests and delivered speeds of up to 720Mbps.

Beyond its streaming capabilities, CyberGhost is a top choice for privacy-conscious users. Based in Romania, CyberGhost operates outside the Five Eyes Alliance jurisdiction and is not subject to data retention regulations for VPN providers.

With a firm commitment to user privacy, CyberGhost enforces a strict, independently audited, no-logging policy and employs RAM-only servers. The provider also employs military-grade AES-256 encryption to scramble your traffic and make tracking virtually impossible.

CyberGhost also offers an ad blocker, saving you bandwidth and speeding up browsing. With the inclusion of Smart Rules, users can automate VPN connections for added convenience. In addition to its streaming servers, CyberGhost also provides specialized servers for torrenting and gaming, enhancing your online activities. One downside, though, is that I’ve found the service doesn’t work for China.

Pricing

Like ExpressVPN and Proton VPN, CyberGhost also offers a single paid plan, just at different subscription terms. CyberGhost offers budget-friendly prices, starting at just $2.19/month, with the flexibility to safeguard up to seven devices with a single subscription.

Android users can get a 3-day free trial, while iOS users can enjoy a longer 7-day trial – though iOS users don’t get split tunneling. All users benefit from a generous 45-day money-back guarantee.

Who It’s Best For

CyberGhost is a great VPN for streaming on mobile. The large server network, optimized servers, and security features ensure you’ll be able to access whatever service you want. I’ve found it’s also a good pick for torrenting and gaming.

For more information, read our CyberGhost review.

Pros

  • Dedicated servers for streaming content, gaming, torrenting
  • Utilizes RAM-only servers
  • 11,700+ servers in 100+ countries
  • Privacy-friendly jurisdiction

Cons

  • Doesn’t work in China
  • Apple app lacks some features

 

7. PrivadoVPN – Best VPN App for Beginners

PrivadoVPN logo

Current Deal $1.11/month
Free plan Yes, with 10GB per month
Max Devices 10
Server Network 300+ servers in 49 countries

Why We Picked It

If you’re looking for your first mobile VPN, I rate PrivadoVPN as one of the best options for beginners. It’s designed for users who are new to VPNs and offers an intuitive VPN app, a sleek design, and a range of cybersecurity features at a budget-friendly price.

Features

This user-friendly VPN relies on AES-256 encryption, providing robust security for your online endeavors. While there might be concerns about its effect on network speed, the WireGuard protocol ensures a swift, stable, and secure connection, enabling seamless browsing and lag-free streaming.

What impressed me the most, though, is how easy the VPN is to set up and use. Its apps feature a sleek and intuitive design with clearly labeled menus and quick access to frequently-used options. Even tweaking the advanced settings was easy, and switching servers only took a second.

In addition, PrivadoVPN follows a strict no-logs policy and is based in Switzerland, a privacy-friendly country. Swiss laws don’t require VPN providers to store data, ensuring greater privacy. While it hasn’t undergone independent auditing, its location and policies offer strong security and privacy assurances to users.

PrivadoVPN also offers parental controls, allowing you to monitor and regulate your children’s access to social media platforms. Moreover, it has an ad blocker that safeguards against malicious ads while improving browsing speed.

Pricing

PrivadoVPN offers a free plan with 10GB of monthly data and access to twelve servers. For those seeking more robust features, premium plans start at $1.11/month and support connections for ten devices. There’s also a 30-day money-back guarantee to explore the premium service risk-free.

Who It’s Best For

With its intuitive interface and simple but powerful toolset, PrivadoVPN is ideal for beginners and users with less technical experience, and it’s the cheapest provider on my shortlist of the top VPNs for mobile. It’s easy to get started, and there are also parental control tools included, meaning it’s a good pick for families.

For more information, read our PrivadoVPN review.

Pros

  • Intuitive iOS app and Android app
  • Free plan available
  • Parental controls feature included
  • Privacy-friendly HQ

Cons

  • Free plan includes only 10GB of free monthly data
  • Small VPN server fleet

 

8. IPVanish – Best Smartphone VPN for Server Information

IPVanish VPN logo

Current Deal $2.19/month
Free Plan / Trial 7-day free trial on Android and iOS
Max Devices Unlimited
Server Network 2,400+ servers in 105 countries

Why We Picked It

IPVanish is a top choice for advanced VPN users because of its robust security features and the amount of technical information that’s provided in the interface. While the app’s aesthetics may not be its strongest point, its robust performance and powerful Android app more than make up for it.

Features

IPVanish offers users a choice between two highly secure encryption ciphers. When using the WireGuard VPN tunnel, the provider employs the secure, lightweight ChaCha20 cipher, ensuring security and efficiency. Alternatively, when opting for the OpenVPN or IKEv2 tunneling protocols, your data undergoes encryption with the AES-256 cipher.

All of these options are available on its Android app, allowing great customizability for advanced users. The app also provides a wide range of information on server load and congestion. The VPN also had minimal impact on battery life in my tests, allowing long sessions without interruptions.

One small drawback I must point out is that IPVanish is headquartered in the US, a founding member of the 5-Eyes Alliance. However, the provider still maintains a solid no-logs policy, which has undergone independent auditing by the Leviathan Security Group, ensuring user privacy and data protection.

Like NordVPN, IPVanish offers a Threat Protection suite, which can help users remove ads, block trackers, and avoid malicious websites.

Pricing

IPVanish offers competitive pricing, starting at just $2.19/month with a two-year subscription. A single subscription allows you to install and use the VPN app on an unlimited number of devices. Additionally, iOS and Android users can take advantage of a 7-day free trial (when a yearly subscription is chosen), extendable with a 30-day money-back guarantee for added peace of mind.

Who It’s Best For

IPVanish is a good pick for Android owners and experienced users who want additional control over their mobile VPN connection. It also offers great performance and an impressive 1TB of encrypted storage, which pros will appreciate.

For more information, read our IPVanish review.

Pros

  • Provides 1TB of encrypted storage
  • Unlimited simultaneous connections
  • 7-day free trial for mobile device users
  • Web protection tools

Cons

  • Based in the US
  • No free plan

Best Mobile VPNs Compared

Here’s a head-to-head comparison table of my top recommendations for the best mobile VPN so you can make a quick, informed decision:

Best Mobile VPN Starting Price Performance Max Devices Play Store Rating App Store Rating Free Version / Trial
NordVPN $3.39/month 930 Mbps 10 4.7/5 4.7/5 7-day Android trial
Surfshark $2.19/month 950 Mbps Unlimited 4.4/5 4.8/5 7-day trial on Android, iOS, and Mac
ExpressVPN $4.99/month 560 Mbps 8 2.9/5 4.7/5 7-day trial on Android and iOS
PureVPN $2.14/month 900 Mbps 10 4.1/5 4.3/5 7-day mobile trial for $0.99.
Proton VPN $3.59/month 510 Mbps 10 4.6/5 4.6/5 Free version for mobile and desktop
CyberGhost $2.19/month 730 Mbps 7 4.4/5 4.2/5 Trials on iOS, Android, Windows, and Mac
PrivadoVPN $1.11/month 490 Mbps 10 3.5/5 3.9/5 Free version for mobile and desktop
IPVanish $2.19/month 720 Mbps Unlimited 4.3/5 4.5/6 7-day free trial on Android and iOS

How We Reviewed and Tested the Best VPN Mobile Apps

  • 20 VPNs Tested
  • 25 Datapoints Measured
  • 300+ Hours Testing
  • 500+ User Reviews Read

To provide you with accurate and well-informed recommendations, I tested 20 of the top mobile VPN services to find the best in the market. I based my methodology on the following criteria:

  • Security Features I ensured that all smartphone VPNs on this list use military-grade encryption, robust security features, and secure tunneling protocols.
  • Performance I ran speed tests three times a day during the review period to draw an average of the results and measure the speed provided by each mobile VPN. I also took battery usage into account and only picked apps that wouldn’t significantly shorten your smartphone’s battery life.
  • Geo-Unblocking I assessed whether the VPN mobile apps I tested could unblock streaming platforms like Netflix, Max, and the BBC iPlayer in geo-restricted regions.
  • Privacy Policies My list of the best mobile VPNs only includes providers that adhere to strict no-logs policies. I also gave credit to services that have passed independent auditing.
  • Customer Experience Alongside personally testing each VPN, I researched what cybersecurity professionals had to say about each of the mobile VPNs I assessed, and I’ve taken into account hundreds of user reviews on platforms like Google Play, the Apple App Store, and Reddit, among others.
  • Value for Money I’ve only recommended VPN apps that are both reasonably priced and offer extensive feature sets for mobile devices.

What Does Your ISP or Mobile Carrier See When You’re Connected to a Mobile VPN?

When you access the internet via a VPN server, your IP address will switch to the address of the server. This can help bypass geo-restrictions for your location or access content that’s available at the target address, such as international Netflix libraries.

In addition, your connection will be encrypted, so your mobile carrier will not be able to track your online activity. In some cases, service providers may be able to detect that you’re using a VPN, and some even use VPN blockers. This can be circumvented by connecting to an obfuscated server or using a dedicated IP. Both NordVPN and Surfshark offer dedicated IP addresses and obfuscation via the OpenVPN protocol.

When Should I Use a Phone VPN App?

A VPN application will secure all your online activities, regardless of whether you’re using a social media app, browsing the internet, playing a game, or paying for goods and services.

Unlike a VPN browser extension, a secure phone VPN is not tied to a single browser window. Therefore, it allows you to protect all your files and applications on your phone.

Here are some instances when you might want to use a VPN for mobile to:

  • Protect yourself when using unsafe Wi-Fi connections
  • Secure your connection when transmitting sensitive data
  • Access geo-blocked services like Netflix
  • Hide your location when playing mobile games
  • Compare prices when shopping online
  • Stop advertisers and trackers following you online
  • Prevent ISP bandwidth throttling

What Devices Can You Use a Mobile VPN App On?

Most providers offer a dedicated VPN application for various different operating systems, including the most popular phone brands and models, and secure mobile VPNs can typically be used on numerous devices.

  • Android – Nearly all leading providers support the ubiquitous Android OS, which has a 70% market share. For more recommendations, see our best Android VPN guide.
  • iPhone – All good mobile VPN providers also offer iPhone VPN apps so iOS users can safeguard and encrypt their web traffic. For additional information, check out our guide to the best iPhone VPNs.
  • Other Devices – You can use a VPN app to secure your Windows devices, Macs, iPads, gaming consoles, routers, and smart TVs. Providers like NordVPN allow users to secure up to 10 devices simultaneously, so you can protect your digital ecosystem and all the devices in your household. See our best VPN for Windows and best Mac VPN guides for further information.

What Makes a Good Mobile VPN App?

When I tested the top VPN apps for this guide, I considered a range of factors that are important for an optimal user experience on mobile devices. Here’s how I ranked the best mobile VPN services:

  • Performance and Speeds – The best VPN for phone should provide fast and reliable connections that enable you to browse, stream, and download content seamlessly. Furthermore, the app should deliver consistent speeds unaffected by the number of people connected to a particular server. On top of this, a reliable connection is paramount for an optimal VPN experience. A superior VPN application should remain connected without interruption, providing a seamless transition when switching between various servers.
  • Security – Ensure your online privacy and security with a VPN app that encrypts your internet connection and masks your identity. Look for one with strong privacy policies that protect data without storing any logs, as well as robust VPN protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN to secure the connection.
  • Unblocking Power – VPN users rely on their apps to bypass geo-restrictions and unblock popular streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, HBO, and Hulu. A great cell phone VPN should be able to help you access geo-restricted content in any region.
  • Server Network – A great VPN should boast an extensive server network that enables you to establish connections with servers from anywhere on the globe. This helps guarantee unhindered access to restricted content and fast and reliable VPN connections. See our guide to the best VPNs for streaming for further analysis.
  • Value for Money – A quality VPN should strike the perfect balance between cost-effectiveness and reliability. Not only must it provide robust security and privacy features, but also an equitable price point compared to other offerings in the market.
  • User Feedback – User reviews are a crucial consideration when looking for the best VPN for phone. Good VPNs should garner positive reviews from their users, who should enjoy an effortless and secure experience.

How to Use a Phone VPN

Ready to take control of your online privacy? After you pick a subscription, NordVPN only takes a few minutes to install. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to install NordVPN after you purchase the product.

  1. Download NordVPN App on Your Device

    First, go to the NordVPN site and sign up for a subscription. Once done, go to Google Play Store or Apple App Store and download the VPN app.

    <strong>Download NordVPN App on Your Device</strong>
  2. Login to Your NordVPN Account

    Once installed, open the VPN application, and log in to your account.

    <strong>Login to Your NordVPN Account</strong>
  3. Start Browsing Securely

    Select a server based on the content or speeds you’re after and browse the web freely, securely, and privately with NordVPN.

    <strong>Start Browsing Securely</strong>

Are There Downsides to Mobile VPN Apps?

VPNs are an excellent solution to ensure you’re able to use the internet privately and securely, evading censorship and surveillance. They aren’t entirely without downsides, though. While the price is more than worth it, in my opinion, it is an extra investment. Most VPN smartphone services require users to pay for the subscription period upfront, which makes the initial payment larger.

Since the VPN reroutes your internet traffic via its server, it may also have a slight impact on your connection speed. In addition, if you use a free service, you might experience significant limitations, like monthly data caps or limited server options. However, you should be very wary of unreliable free VPNs that might collect and share your data with third parties, posing an active threat to your privacy.

Free Mobile VPN vs Paid Subscriptions – What’s the Best Mobile VPN Free of Charge?

While a free option may seem appealing, there are often limitations and risks associated with using it. It’s important to note that free VPNs have certain restrictions – such as slower speeds and limited server access – which could prevent them from reliably unlocking streaming services.

Nick SaraevTech and SaaS Expert
EXPERT INSIGHT

“Although free VPNs are a great way to test the waters of a VPN service, they often don't offer the same level of security as paid plans and completely free VPNs are notorious for selling user data.”

That said, reliable providers like ProtonVPN and PrivadoVPN provide free users with the same level of protection as premium customers, though their free plans do have limitations.

If you’re considering the best free VPN app for Android or iPhone, however, I recommend instead investing in a paid provider that offers either a money-back guarantee or a trial period. NordVPN and Surfshark are both great options that offer 7-day free trials for mobile users.

Conclusion – What is the Best VPN Phone App?

With the rising use of mobile devices for data-sensitive operations like online shopping, banking, and work communications, it’s very important to be able to keep your connection private and secure. Because of this, a secure VPN mobile app should be a must-have for your device.

After extensive testing and comparision of over 20 popular VPNs, I rate NordVPN as the best VPN for cell phone available today. The provider offers fast connection speeds and a wide range of security features that will keep your online data safe and secure.

FAQs

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Ilijia Miljkovac
Technology Writer
Ilijia Miljkovac
Technology Writer

Ilijia Miljkovac has been a writer for Techopedia since 2022. Beyond this, he has seven years of experience in content creation and development, covering all things tech for brands such as MakeUseOf, Career Karma, and Creative Plus Media. Ilijia writes about cybersecurity topics spanning VPNs, antiviruses, and hosting, helping to inform B2B and B2C audiences about the latest products and services.