Best iPhone VPN of 2024

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While the iPhone operating system is among some of the safest, effectively preventing malware from entering the system, the best iPhone VPN will further enhance your iOS security and lessen the chances of identity theft. The service encrypts your online activities, making it harder for potential snoopers or your ISP to track your activity and use it for personal gain.

So if you want to safeguard your data, protect your privacy online, and block tracking attempts and annoying ads, a VPN is a must.

In this guide, I review and compare the best iPhone VPNs, examining their level of protection, impact on the device’s performance, and pros and cons.

The Best iPhone VPNs Tested By Our Experts

NordVPN – Best iPhone VPN Overall

Starting from $3.09/month
24-Month Plan + 3 Months Free
VISIT SITE

Surfshark – Best Cheap VPN for iPhone

Starting from $2.19/month
24-Month Plan + 3 Months Free
VISIT SITE

ExpressVPN – Best iPhone VPN for Security

Starting from $6.67/month
12-Month Plan + 3 Months Free
VISIT SITE

PureVPN – Best iOS VPN for Privacy

Starting from $2.14/month
24-Month Plan + 4 Months Free
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CyberGhost VPN – Best iPhone VPN for Streaming

Starting from $2.19/month
24-Month Plan + 4 Months Free
VISIT SITE

IvacyVPN – Best iPhone VPN for Long-Term Use

Starting from $1.17/month
Save $500 On 60-Month Plan
VISIT SITE

PrivadoVPN – Best iOS VPN for Beginners

Starting from $1.99/month
24-Month Plan + 3 Months Free
VISIT SITE

Private Internet Access – Best iPhone VPN for Travelers

Starting from $2.19/month
24-Month Plan + 4 Months Free
VISIT SITE

IPVanish – Best iPhone VPN for Unlimited Bandwidth

Starting from $2.19/month
24-Month Plan + 30-Day Refund
VISIT SITE

TotalAV – Best iPhone VPN for Online Browsing

Starting from $3.25/month
12-Month Plan + 30-Day Refund
VISIT SITE

NordVPN – Best iPhone VPN Overall

iOS App
Max Devices 10
Server Network 6,400+ servers in 111+ countries
Free plan
Starting Price $3.09/month

Why We Picked It

NordVPN has been a leader in the VPN market for years, offering top-notch security and lightning-fast speeds. This fastest VPN for iPhone retains over 90% of the baseline connection speed, allowing you to browse and stream lag-free even with the most distant servers.

Features

The VPN provider employs the AES-256-CBC cipher, widely recognized as the most secure encryption method. To maintain optimal connection speeds, NordVPN utilizes its proprietary NordLynx tunneling protocol, an enhanced version of the WireGuard protocol. This unique combination ensures fast speeds and robust data protection.

NordVPN has several advantages over other iOS VPNs, particularly regarding user privacy. The provider has a strict no-log policy that reputable companies like PwC and Deloitte have independently audited. Additionally, NordVPN operates on RAM servers, meaning your browsing data is deleted every time the system reboots.

Aside from what I find crucial, this VPN comes with a list of additional features. There’s a functional kill switch, split tunneling, and obfuscated servers for untraceable VPN use. You will also find the Threat Protection Lite suite, which includes an ad and tracker blocker and prevents you from entering infected websites.

Pricing

NordVPN may not be the cheapest iPhone VPN, but it is still affordable. It starts at $3.09/month and allows up to ten simultaneous connections per subscription. Additionally, you can utilize a 30-day money-back guarantee to try out the VPN without risk.

24 months + 3 free 12 months 1 month
NordVPN Basic $3.09/month $4.99/month $12.99/month
NordVPN Plus $3.99/month $5.99/month $13.99/month
NordVPN Ultimate $5.99/month $7.99/month $15.99/month

Who It's Best For

NordVPN is the perfect VPN provider for secure, high-speed connections. Whether you’re gaming, streaming, or torrenting, Nord is ideal.

Pros

  • Removes ads, blocks trackers and malicious websites
  • Retains almost 100% of the initial connection speed
  • Unblocks all popular streaming services worldwide
  • Has over 6,400 servers in 111 countries

Cons

  • No free trial for iOS users
NordVPN
9.5
Review

 

Surfshark – Best Cheap VPN for iPhone

iOS App
Max Devices Unlimited
Server Network 3,200+ servers in 100+ countries
Free plan
Starting Price $2.19/month

Why We Picked It

If you’re looking for an affordable but powerful iPhone VPN, then Surfshark is a good option. This VPN offers the best price-to-quality ratio on the market, considering that you can connect unlimited devices simultaneously, receive numerous top-notch security features, and unblock nearly any geo-restricted content.

Features

Surfshark safeguards your online traffic with an industry-leading AES-256 encryption cipher, making it virtually impossible to decrypt. Due to the implementation of the WireGuard protocol, your connection will remain super fast and secure. Alternatively, you can also use OpenVPN and IKEv2 protocols.

Aside from robust protection, this VPN also respects your privacy. It follows a no-logs policy, which has been independently audited by the Deloitte consulting firm. Moreover, it utilizes RAM-only servers, which means that your data doesn’t stay on the hard drive and isn’t logged at all.

Even though the iOS app doesn’t include the GPS Spoofer and split tunneling features, you will find plenty of others to enhance your online experience. For instance, CleanWeb will help you avoid ads and malicious sites. Meanwhile, the Bypasser is great for bypassing heavy restrictions, and the kill switch protects your IP at all times.

Pricing

The best part about Surfshark is the pricing. Its plans start from as low as $2.19/month, and there’s also a 7-day free trial available for all iOS and macOS users. There is also a 30-day money-back guarantee, which extends your trial period.

24 months + 3 free 12 months + 3 free 1 month
Surfshark Starter $2.19/month $2.79/month $15.45/month
Surfshark One $2.69/month $3.19/month $15.95/month
Surfshark One+ $4.29/month $5.09/month $17.95/month

Who It's Best For

Surfshark is a fast, reliable VPN that makes it easy to set up a secure internet connection. It offers an excellent service at a very affordable price.

Pros

  • Eye-catching and intuitive app
  • Allows unlimited parallel connections
  • Includes an ad blocker and protects from blacklisted IPs
  • 7-day free trial for Apple devices

Cons

  • No antivirus suite for iOS devices
  • Doesn’t have a free plan
Surfshark
9.5
Review

 

ExpressVPN – Best iPhone VPN for Security

iOS App
Max Devices 8
Server Network 3,000+ servers in 105+ countries
Free plan
Starting Price $6.67/month

Why We Picked It

ExpressVPN has been one of the industry leaders for years due to offering a versatile protection suite for iPhones and not only. The provider boasts an extensive server fleet of over 3,000 servers in more than 105 countries, and the easy-to-use app has been developed using next-gen security measures.

Features

Even though the iPhone is considered a highly secure device, it gets even better when the ExpressVPN app encrypts your online traffic using AES-256 or ChaCha20 ciphers. Meanwhile, the proprietary Lightway tunneling protocol ensures you can enjoy fast and robust connections.

To ensure maximum privacy, ExpressVPN uses TrustedServer technology, which means that none of your data is stored on the server’s hard drive. Instead, the servers run on RAM only. Moreover, the court has approved the provider’s strict no-logging policy, confirming that your online activities or personal information will not be recorded or monitored.

ExpressVPN recently introduced its own password manager, ExpressVPN Keys. This password manager has undergone independent auditing and is now accessible for free within the iOS application. Additionally, users gain access to the Threat Manager suite, which blocks ads and online trackers, stealth servers for bypassing censorship in heavily restricted areas, and many other features.

Pricing

The prices start at $6.67/month, giving you up to eight simultaneous connections. A 7-day free trial is available through the Apple App Store, and there’s also a 30-day money-back guarantee.

12 months + 3 free 6 months 1 month
ExpressVPN $6.67/month $9.99/month $12.95/month

Who It's Best For

ExpressVPN offers excellent all-around privacy and security services – and it’s one of the best premium services on the market.

Pros

  • Intuitive application for iOS
  • Proprietary Lightway protocol for fast speeds
  • TrustedServer technology ensures complete privacy
  • Unblocks the most popular streaming services
  • 7-day free trial for iPhones

Cons

  • Pricier than most VPNs on the market
  • No free plan
ExpressVPN
9.2
Review

 

PureVPN – Best iOS VPN for Privacy

iOS App
Max Devices 10
Server Network 6,000+ servers in 65+ countries
Free plan
Starting Price $2.14/month

Why We Picked It

If you’re looking for an iPhone VPN that ensures continuous quality in privacy and protection, PureVPN might just be it. The provider employs a list of advanced security features, boasts thousands of servers globally, and is very affordable, too.

Features

Unlike other iOS VPNs, PureVPN has an Always-On Audit approach, meaning it can be tested independently at any time without notice. This ensures the service doesn’t skip security flaws and aims for top-notch performance. Additionally, the provider follows a strict no-logs policy, guaranteeing that there’s no activity logging or monitoring.

Aside from quality maintenance, PureVPN utilizes an AES-256 encryption cipher, which makes your data unreliable to snoopers. To ensure fast connection speeds, PureVPN offers a variety of industry-leading protocols, including a blazing-fast WireGuard tunneling protocol.

Unfortunately, many additional features come for an additional (but minimal) fee; for instance, you can get a password manager, also known as PureKeep, for $1/month. PureEncrypt (encrypted storage) is also available for a certain additional price. Aside from paid features, the default iOS app includes a kill switch, split tunneling, obfuscated servers, and more.

Pricing

Unlike ExpressVPN, PureVPN is on the cheaper side of the VPN industry. Its prices start at just $2.14/month, and a single subscription gives you up to ten parallel connections. Plus, there’s an extended 31-day money-back guarantee.

5 years 24 months + 3 free 12 months 1 month
Standard $2.16/month $2.14/month $3.99/month $12.45/month
Plus $2.66/month $3.33/month $5.82/month $15.95/month
Max $3.33/month $4.07/month $7.07/month $19.95/month

Who It's Best For

PureVPN offers a great service for securing connections, and you can be assured you’ll always be anonymous online – and the company’s always-on audit policy means you can be assured of its service.

Pros

  • Suitable for beginners
  • Offers several additional features for a small fee
  • Works in areas with restricted VPN use
  • Can be audited without prior notice

Cons

  • Android app is developed better
  • Doesn’t offer a free plan
PureVPN
9.2
Review

 

CyberGhost VPN – Best iPhone VPN for Streaming

iOS App
Max Devices 7
Server Network 11,700+ servers in 100+ countries
Free plan
Starting Price $2.19/month

Why We Picked It

CyberGhost VPN is a top choice for streaming VPNs on iOS devices due to its extensive server network, specialized streaming servers, and high-speed connections. Best of all, the prices are very budget-friendly too.

Features

Using the WireGuard tunneling protocol, users can enjoy fast speeds while benefiting from robust encryption with the AES-256 cipher. Moreover, CyberGhost’s NoSpy servers, exclusively managed by the provider, offer an added layer of privacy and security without any third-party interference.

The provider is located in Romania, which doesn’t belong to the 5-Eyes alliance and doesn’t mandate data retention for VPN providers. It also follows a strict no-logging policy and underwent an independent audit by Deloitte in 2022.

Next to the streaming servers, you will find ones for torrenting and gaming, elevating your online experience to new heights. The VPN also offers Smart Rules, allowing users to automate VPN connections. Alongside that, you also get an ad blocker to remove unwanted ads.

Pricing

CyberGhost VPN prices start from as little as $2.19/month, and a single subscription allows users to protect up to seven devices simultaneously. iOS users can take advantage of the most extended 7-day free trial, while all users benefit from a 45-day money-back guarantee.

2 years + 2 free 6 months 1 month
CyberGhost $2.19/month $6.99/month $12.99/month

Who It's Best For

CyberGhost is a smart, affordable option, and it’s also ideal for unblocking streaming services around the world.

Pros

  • Optimizes servers for streaming, gaming, and torrenting
  • Unblocks many Netflix libraries
  • 7-day free trial for iPhone users

Cons

  • Possible VPN connection issues on macOS
  • Doesn’t have a free plan
CyberGhostVPN
8.7
Review

 

IvacyVPN – Best iPhone VPN for Long-Term Use

iOS App
Max Devices 10
Server Network 5,700+ servers in 70+ countries
Free plan
Starting Price $1.17/month

Why We Picked It

While cybersecurity is necessary, it also must be affordable. Fortunately, Ivacy VPN is not only the cheapest iPhone VPN, but it also employs industry-leading security measures to safeguard your online privacy.

Features

Ivacy VPN takes your online privacy seriously and uses the highly trusted AES-256 encryption cipher, which is also used by government institutions. However, this cipher is quite heavy. Therefore, the provider offers the WireGuard tunneling protocol, meaning you can enjoy fast internet speeds without compromising your safety.

In the competitive world of VPNs, trust is key. While many top providers undergo rigorous independent audits to ensure reliability, Ivacy VPN has yet to undergo an independent audit. However, it’s important to note that Ivacy VPN offers a free plan that has not been accused of logging user activity, increasing my trust in the VPN.

If you have iOS 11 and up, the Ivacy VPN offers split tunneling to customize your VPN traffic. You will also find the DDoS Protection feature, which allows you to play your favorite video games without risk. And there’s the Secure Download feature, which monitors your download attachments for malware.

Pricing

Ivacy VPN is affordable for anyone. There’s a free iOS VPN plan that gives you unlimited monthly data. Furthermore, premium plans start from as little as $1.17/month, allowing you to connect up to ten devices simultaneously and offering a 30-day money-back guarantee for a risk-free trial.

5 years 2 years 1 month
IvacyVPN $1.17/month $1.99/month $9.95/month

Who It's Best For

IvacyVPN is great for users on a budget. It offers a substantial server fleet and support for enough devices to cover your whole family – but it comes at a rock-bottom price.

Pros

  • Affordable premium VPN
  • A free plan with unlimited data
  • Beginner-friendly iOS app
  • Looks for malware in downloaded files

Cons

  • No kill switch for iOS or macOS
  • Hasn’t gone through an independent audit
IvacyVPN
8.7
Review

 

PrivadoVPN – Best iOS VPN for Beginners

iOS App
Max Devices 10
Server Network 300+ servers in 65 countries
Free plan Yes, with 10Gb per month
Starting Price $1.99/month

Why We Picked It

Consider PrivadoVPN if you’re looking for your first iPhone VPN. It’s ideal for beginners, boasting an intuitive interface, an appealing design, essential cybersecurity features, and even a free plan.

Features

This seemingly basic VPN utilizes AES-256 encryption, ensuring robust security for your online activities. Despite the potential impact on network speed, the WireGuard tunneling protocol guarantees a fast, stable, and secure VPN connection so that you can browse on Safari and elsewhere lag-free.

Although PrivadoVPN has yet to undergo an independent audit, it operates under a strict no-logs policy and is based in Switzerland, outside the jurisdiction of the Five Eyes Alliance. This means that Swiss laws do not mandate data retention for VPN providers.

Despite a questionable approach to privacy, I was glad to find a functional ad blocker, a helpful feature for enhancing connection speed and security. It also includes parental controls for managing children’s social media access, among other essential features, like a kill switch or split tunneling.

Pricing

PrivadoVPN’s forever-free plan offers 10GB of monthly data and servers in 12 cities. Premium plans start at just $1.99/month and allow simultaneous connections on up to ten devices. Plus, there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee for those wanting to try out the premium service.

24 months + 3 free 12 months + 3 free 1 month
PrivadoVPN $1.99/month $2.99/month $10.99/month

Who It's Best For

I’d rate PrivadoVPN as being the best free iPhone VPN available today – but the provider also has a lot to offer if you upgrade to its paid plans.

Pros

  • Forever free plan
  • Intuitive iOS application suitable for beginners
  • Allows up to 10 parallel connections
  • Cheap premium plan

Cons

  • Small server fleet
  • Free plan comes with limited monthly data
PrivadoVPN
8.6
Review

 

Private Internet Access – Best iPhone VPN for Travelers

A logo of Private Internet Access VPN

iOS App
Max Devices 10
Server Network 35,000+ servers in 91 countries
Free plan
Starting Price $2.19/month

Why We Picked It

Private Internet Access boasts an extensive server network, making it an excellent choice for frequently traveling iPhone users. With access to over 30,000 servers in 91 countries, this VPN provider ensures reliable and secure connections wherever you go.

Features

One standout feature of PIA is its customizable encryption options. Users can choose between AES-128 and AES-256 ciphers. Even though the latter cipher is heavier on network speed, implementing the WireGuard tunneling protocol allows you to use this unbreakable encryption without compromising the speed.

As with counterparts like Surfshark or NordVPN, PIA uses RAM-only servers, ensuring that none of your browsing data is stored on hard drives. Even though the provider is headquartered in Canada, a member of the Five Eyes Alliance, its independently audited no-logs policy proves the VPN’s trustworthiness.

PIA includes essential VPN features, such as a kill switch for protecting your real IP address or split tunneling for customizing the VPN traffic. Nonetheless, there are numerous additional features, like InBrowser, a private browsing tool that automatically deletes browsing history and cookies after each session. Or the Identity Guard feature, which monitors for any data leaks associated with your email address.

Pricing

Despite its unique features, PIA remains affordable, with plans starting at just $2.19/month and allowing unlimited connections simultaneously. You can also test the service risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

24 months 6 months 1 month
PIA $2.19/month $7.50/month $11.99/month

Who It's Best For

PIA has a huge global server network, and its features make it a particularly good pick for iPhone VPN users on the move today. With long-term contracts, it’s also very reasonably priced.

Pros

  • Offers a private browser
  • Boasts over 35,000+ servers worldwide
  • Allows unlimited simultaneous connections

Cons

  • Doesn’t have a free plan or free trial
  • Based in Canada
Private Internet Access
8.7
Review

 

IPVanish – Best iPhone VPN for Unlimited Bandwidth

A logo of IPVanish

iOS App
Max Devices Unlimited
Server Network 2,200+ servers in 52+ countries
Free plan
Starting Price $2.19/month

Why We Picked It

IPVanish may not have the most appealing aesthetics compared to other VPN providers, but it is undoubtedly one of the most secure VPNs for iPhones available today. With servers located globally and a robust security suite, this VPN ensures that you are in complete control of your browsing history.

Features

IPVanish provides users with two highly secure encryption ciphers. When utilizing the OpenVPN or IKEv2 tunneling protocols, your traffic is encrypted using the AES-256 cipher, ensuring robust protection. Alternatively, for the WireGuard tunnel, IPVanish offers the lightweight and secure ChaCha20 cipher.

The VPN provider is located in the US, which is one of the founding members of the 5-Eyes alliance. However, it also adheres to a strict no-logging policy that was independently audited by the Leviathan Security Group.

Like NordVPN, IPVanish provides you with the Threat Protection suite, which blocks various ads, blocks online trackers, and stops you from entering infected websites. Additionally, you receive the SugarSync encrypted storage of 500GB, which works similarly to Google Drive but is encrypted using the AES-256 cipher.

Pricing

IPVanish’s prices start from as little as $2.19/month, and a single subscription allows you to connect unlimited devices simultaneously. There’s also a 7-day free trial for iOS devices that can be extended with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

24 months 12 months 1 month
IPVanish $2.19/month $3.33/month $12.99/month

Who It's Best For

IPVanish’s advanced encryption and web protection package ensures you can be very confident about the security it provides. Having 500GB of encrypted storage is just an added bonus.

Pros

  • Independently audited no-logs policy
  • Includes Threat Protection suite
  • Has a 7-day free trial for iOS devices

Cons

  • Located in the US
  • No free plan
IPVanish
8.3
Review

 

TotalAV – Best iPhone VPN for Online Browsing

iOS App
Max Devices 5
Server Network 50+ servers in 30+ countries
Free plan
Starting Price $2.42/month

Why We Picked It

TotalAV is a top-performing antivirus program that also provides a solid VPN application for iOS and other devices. The VPN software is included in two antivirus subscriptions: the Internet Security and Total Security plans.

Features

In addition to offering a comprehensive antivirus suite featuring cloud-based malware scanning and real-time protection, the provider prioritizes trustworthiness and security. Utilizing the AES-256 encryption cipher ensures complete traffic masking while implementing the OpenVPN protocol guarantees stable connection speeds.

Unfortunately, user privacy seems to be less of a priority with TotalAV. The provider still needs to undergo an independent audit to verify the reliability of its no-logs policy. Additionally, being based in the UK, which is a member of the 5-Eyes alliance, raises concerns as it could potentially expose your browsing data to government surveillance.

Depending on the plan you choose, TotalAV offers a wide range of features. There’s an effective ad blocker that helps you prevent adware. You may also use a photo manager that effortlessly removes unwanted photos. And you will find the Data breach check feature, which monitors for your email data leaks.

Pricing

TotalVPN offers a single plan that costs $2.42/month or $29.00 for the first year, making it a truly affordable option. The number of parallel connections depends on your selected plan, varying from 5 to 6 devices. If you’re unsure about the app yet, you can use a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Who It's Best For

TotalAV’s antivirus package provides comprehensive security for your device. Getting TotalVPN bundled in adds an additional layer of security for your system, so you can rest easy.

Pros

  • Comes with an advanced antivirus suite
  • Intuitive and eye-catching iOS application
  • Retains decent connection speeds
  • Affordable pricing

Cons

  • Based in the UK (5-Eyes Alliance)
  • Doesn’t unlock all streaming channels
TotalAV VPN
8.2
Review

 

Methodology

How We Review and Test VPN Services

20 VPNS TESTED

25 DATA POINTS MEASURED

300+ HOURS TESTING

500+ USER REVIEWS READ

To provide our readers with accurate and well informed recommendations, we tested 20 leading VPN services to find the best in the market. Our methodology consists of the following criteria:

  • Security Features: We made sure that the provider uses standard security features and a secure tunneling protocol.
  • Privacy Policies: We looked for VPNs that come with a no-logs policy, and verify the extend to which user privacy is upheld.
  • Speed: We run speed tests three times a day and draw an average of the result to see how much of the original broadband speed is retained.
  • Compatibility: We ensure the VPN provider offers multiple simultaneous connections and is compatible with the most popular operating systems.
  • Geo-unblocking: We test whether the VPN service can unlock different libraries (content available in different countries) on the most popular streaming platforms.
  • Customer Experience: When researching products and services, we read real user experiences and test out their customer support channels ourselves.
  • Price and Value for Money: We set out to recommend reasonably priced products that offer value for money.

Why Should I Use a VPN On My iPhone Device?

Being constantly connected to the internet means you’re constantly exposed to risks like cyber attacks, malware, spyware, viruses, and trackers. Unless you’re only visiting trusted, secure websites, you’re leaving yourself vulnerable to these attacks.

A single click on an infected link can infect your device. Similarly, a single weakness in your online protection might allow malicious individuals to steal your sensitive data and passwords. That’s why a virtual private network (VPN) is a must-have.

In addition to online safety and anonymity, VPNs also allow you to bypass online censorship and access geo-restricted content, so you can watch your favorite TV shows and movies from anywhere in the world. Plus, they also block annoying ads, which is always a plus.

Is It Safe to Use an iPhone VPN App?

Yes, using a VPN on your iPhone is not only safe but highly recommended. A reputable VPN provider will encrypt your data, ensure your anonymity online, and grant access to geo-restricted content. With an iPhone VPN, you can rest assured that your online activities remain private and shielded from ISP or government monitoring, preventing speed throttling and internet connection restrictions.

However, it’s important to note that free iPhone VPNs can’t be trusted blindly. Sometimes, for an opportunity to operate in heavily restricted regions or simply in exchange for an income, free VPNs tend to collect and sell user data to third parties. Therefore, a paid VPN is worth your consideration.

Alternatively, you can use Apple’s native feature, Private Relay. It hides your online traffic from the middleman, yet you can’t choose a server location to connect to. Moreover, the technology still leaves plenty of details to use to track you down, such as cookies, email, and more.

What is iCloud+ Private Relay? Is it Enough?

iCloud Private Relay is a privacy feature Apple offers as part of iCloud+. Similarly to a VPN, it’s meant to encrypt your online traffic that flows through the Safari browser on devices that run on iOS and macOS.

The technology routes your encrypted traffic through two relays. The first relay assigns a temporary IP address to your device, while the second relay decrypts the web address you’re trying to access.

This helps prevent third parties, including your internet service provider, from tracking your online activity and linking it to your device’s IP address.

Even though all of this sounds familiar to a VPN, there are several major iCloud Private Relay disadvantages:

  • iCloud Private Relay works only on Apple devices. Unlike VPNs, iCloud Private Relay is only dedicated to devices produced by Apple; therefore, you won’t be able to encrypt your traffic on Windows or Android devices.
  • Compatible with Safari only. iCloud Private Relay only works on Safari, not on other browsers. So, you won’t be protected if you use a different browser on your Mac or iPhone.
  • Fewer protection layers. Commercial VPNs offer double VPN services, sending your internet traffic through additional servers to further secure it. iCloud Private Relay only allows a single hop.
  • Not changeable geo-location. One of the primary benefits of using a VPN is its ability to provide you with a foreign IP address, allowing access to geo-restricted content. However, iCloud Private Relay doesn’t offer this opportunity, as it does not allow users to select a different geographical location.

How to Choose the Best iPhone VPNs

We’ve tested and compared a wide range of apps to provide you with a hand-picked shortlist of iOS VPNs for various use cases – but it can be tough to decide which is best for you.

When choosing the best VPN for iPhone, consider the following factors, whether you’re looking at NordVPN, Surfshark, or ExpressVPN:

  • Compatible application. The majority of VPN iPhone apps are compatible with iOS 11 or newer versions. Therefore, ensure that your iPhone is up-to-date when using the iPhone VPN app.
  • Security and privacy. Whatever device you will use a VPN on, one of the first things to evaluate is the security suite and approach to your privacy. You must look for industry-leading encryption ciphers, top-notch tunneling protocols, and an audited no-log policy.
  • Additional features. It’s no secret that cybersecurity companies develop more advanced apps for Windows and Android devices. Hence, you must pay attention to what extra features are available in the iOS app. Ensure you find a functional kill switch, split tunneling, obfuscated servers, and more.

How to Use a VPN On iPhone

Here’s a step-by-step guide for downloading and installing a VPN onto your iPhone phone. Follow the exact steps outlined below, and you’ll have ExpressVPN up and running in five minutes.

  1. Get Surfshark

    Visit the Surfshark site, pick a billing term, and purchase Surfshark. Once done, create your personal account.

  2. Download and Install Surfshark

    Download the Surfshark iPhone app and install it on your mobile and log in.

    <strong>Download and Install Surfshark</strong>
  3. Connect to a VPN Server

    Once you log in, you will see a Quick-connect button at the bottom of the screen. Tap it to connect to the fastest nearby server. Alternatively, you can choose a specific server location.

    <strong>Connect to a VPN Server</strong>

Free iPhone VPN vs. Paid Subscription

There aren’t many free iPhone VPNs, let alone good ones. After extensive research, we’ve found that the best free iPhone VPN is PrivadoVPN, but even then, the free plan this VPN provider offers is extremely limited.

You’ll only have access to 10 medium-speed servers and won’t be able to use the VPN at all after spending your free 10GB of monthly VPN-protected data. This is typical of most free VPNs, which generally come with a number of major downsides.

Instead of considering it as a permanent solution, you should consider a free iPhone VPN app as a free trial of the paid version. It’s a great way to test a particular VPN in practice without committing to a monthly subscription so you can see first-hand whether it fits your needs.

All premium VPNs on this list offer money-back guarantees as well, which essentially do the same – they allow you to test a VPN for a whole month before deciding if it’s the best option. If you don’t like a particular app for any reason, you can ask for a full refund.

Conclusion – What’s the Best iPhone VPN?

If you wish to secure your online data or avoid online scammers, using a VPN on your iPhone is a necessity. A VPN not only secures your online activities from prying eyes but also ensures your personal data remains confidential, especially when using public Wi-Fi networks.

Therefore, after extensive testing and comparison, I found NordVPN to be the best VPN for iPhone. It combines top-notch encryption, a vast network of servers, and lightning-fast speeds, making it ideal for enhancing iPhone security. Whether safeguarding online transactions or accessing geo-restricted content, NordVPN ensures your digital footprint is protected at all times.

NordVPN
9.5
Review

FAQs

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References

Aleksandar Stevanovic
Software Reviews Expert
Aleksandar Stevanovic
Software Reviews Expert

Aleksandar Stevanovic spent 10 years honing his craft as a freelance content writer. He has a degree in Economics, and extensive experience in software, crypto, and cybersecurity industries. He covers a multitude of topics, writing factual and informative articles, helping individuals better understand the intricacies of the online world. Over the last two years, his research focus shifted more towards tech and software content, as evidenced by his publications on CEX.IO, Business2Community, and Techopedia. He believes in simplifying complex topics and bringing them closer to like-minded individuals. His work is as detail-oriented as it is creative, and is designed to…