For Android and iOS users who want a trustworthy VPN, the best VPN for Android and iOS in 2022 combines a verified no-log policy, strong encryption, and fast speeds to protect privacy and unblock content. Whether you choose a paid service like ExpressVPN or a generous free option like ProtonVPN, the key is picking an app that has been independently audited and does not sell your data.
Best VPN for Android and iOS at a glance
| VPN | Free tier | Server count | No-log policy | Platform support |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ExpressVPN | 7-day free trial on mobile | 160 locations | Yes, audited | Android 7+, iOS 15+ |
| ProtonVPN | Unlimited bandwidth, 3 locations | 1,000+ servers (paid) | Yes, audited | Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, Linux |
| Windscribe | 10 GB monthly, 10+ locations | 60+ countries (paid) | Yes | Android, iOS, desktop |
| TunnelBear | 1.5 GB monthly | 23+ countries (paid) | Yes, audited | Android, iOS, desktop |
| Hotspot Shield | 500 MB daily (15 GB/month), US only | 1,800+ servers (paid) | Yes | Android, iOS, up to 5 devices |
How we picked the best mobile VPN apps
We evaluated each VPN based on four core criteria. First, privacy policy and no-logging audits: we only recommend apps that have a clear policy stating they do not log your browsing activity and, ideally, have been independently audited. Second, encryption standards: every app on this list uses military-grade encryption to protect your data on public Wi-Fi and mobile data. Third, speed performance: we considered how each VPN handles streaming and browsing without significant slowdowns. Fourth, free tier generosity: we looked at data caps, server locations, and whether the free version is usable for everyday tasks like checking messages or unblocking a site. Finally, ease of use on mobile: the app must be simple to install and connect with one tap.
1. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN stands out for its proprietary Lightway protocol, which delivers fast connection speeds while maintaining strong encryption. It offers 160 VPN server locations worldwide, making it easy to unblock geo-restricted content. On iOS, the app requires iOS 15 or above; on Android, it requires Android 7 or above. To set up ExpressVPN on an iPhone, install it from the App Store by searching for ExpressVPN, then tap Get or the Cloud icon, then tap OPEN. On first launch, accept the Terms of Service and choose the data-sharing option, then tap Sign In. If the subscription was not bought from the App Store, enter your account email address and password or activation code, then tap Sign In. If the subscription was bought from the App Store, tap restore your App Store subscription. Tap Continue. When iOS asks “ExpressVPN” Would Like to Add VPN Configurations, tap Allow. ExpressVPN also offers a 7-day free trial for mobile and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Users complain about bugs and the need to reconnect to a server every time; the help team proactively addresses bad reviews on digital stores.
2. HotspotShield VPN
When it comes to security, speed, and stability, Hotspot Shield Free VPN immediately comes to mind. This VPN app offers many essential solutions such as the availability to use the service for up to five devices, a daily data cap of 500 MB or 15 GB per month, and military-grade data encryption for a worry-free online transaction on your end. Along with its user-friendly interface, the app offers two versions: free and premium. The free version is ad-supported, has a bandwidth limit, and only connects you to US servers. The premium one gives access to unlimited bandwidth and offers a no-ad experience.
3. NordVPN
Undoubtedly one of the best VPNs for Android, NordVPN has been a frontrunner in the VPN world since 2012. It offers a range of VPN perks including a quick connect feature for fast and simple VPN access, a rigid no-logging policy, unlimited bandwidth (for premium accounts), and unblocking of geo-restricted websites. The app is available on several platforms such as Windows, Linux. iOS, macOS, Android, and Android TV. You can use Nord as a VPN extension on Chrome and Firefox as well. The NordVPN is free to download for Android and iOS. However, you are only given a week of free trial to test its features. The monthly tier of the app costs $11.95 but it comes with 30 Days Money-Back Guarantee.
4. ProtonVPN
Next on our list of the best VPN for Android is ProtonVPN -- an unlimited VPN app. Yes, you got that right. This app touts an unlimited bandwidth, perfect for binge-watching videos that are geo-restricted. It is loved by many users as it comes with an intuitive design while offering great protection and a fast internet experience. However, as free as it is, it does have some drawbacks you have to keep in mind: the service is only guaranteed for one device at a time, free VPN servers are only limited to three locations, and the speed sometimes drops at peak times. There is no P2P support as well. Upgrading to the premium version discard these limitations. ProtonVPN is also available on a wide range of devices such as Android, iOS, Mac, Windows, and Linux.
5. Betternet VPN
Betternet VPN is a freshie in the VPN scene. However, it has been gaining tons of users as it touts plenty of decent VPN services. It has solid security options with a no-logging policy nor sharing data logs of its users. Also, the app offers a better privacy guard than any web proxy servers around. The only downside of Betternet is that the speed usually throttles from time to time especially if you’re using a free version. Betternet VPN is available on Google Play Store and Apple Apps Store with a 7-day free trial to test the premium version.
6. TunnelBear
On the outside, TunnelBear seems like a delicate and subtle app but you’ll be surprised that it actually boasts a solid and rigorous performance as a free VPN app for Android and iOS. It renders an easy-to-use setup that is available on desktop and mobile while giving you up to 1.5 GB of free data monthly. We know that it isn’t a huge amount especially if you’re a social media maven, but it sure is enough as an emergency backup when you have to check your important messages at places where a stable connection isn’t available. What's more, it doesn’t collect much of your personal data as you sign up for the service. TunnelBear has restrictions when it comes to the free version. However, you can always avail of its premium version if you wish to widen the server location selection, remove the download limit, and the number of connected devices.
7. Windscribe
Windscribe is another chart-topping entry on this list for a myriad of reasons, including a hefty 10 GB of free VPN use monthly as long as you sign up using your email address and an extra 5 GB if you tweet about the app. It works well on desktop and mobile. Plus, it offers a number of useful features from its free version, such as access to over 10 server locations (including Hongkong, Canada, UK, and the US), a firewall, an ad-blocker, and a rigid no-logging policy. If you upgrade to the Pro version which costs from $4 annually, you’ll have access to a larger number of reliable servers.
8. SecureVPN
Another entry on the list of the best VPN for Android is Secure VPN. As the name suggests, Secure VPN offers an intense shield against internet pirates and hackers using military-grade encryption technology which is certainly a notch above other apps of the same line. It works well on Wi-Fi and other mobile data connections and boasts a strict no-logging policy and a large number of free VPN servers across the globe. On top of these, the app doesn’t ask for any of your information since it doesn’t require registration and configuration. All you have to do is to download, tap your preferred VPN server, and surf the internet anonymously.
9. Speedify
Is the website you’re visiting taking forever to load? Do you hate buffering videos? Can’t stand audio pauses? Don’t worry, we have the app just for you. Speedify, as implied by its name, provides top-grade performance across more than 1,000 servers in over 50 countries. It makes sure that you enjoy the fastest internet service while giving you the best protection using a full encryption security system as you scour through the web. It simply works by distributing your online traffic to all available internet connections such as Wi-Fi and 4G. On top of it the amazing speed, the app doesn’t keep any of your browsing histories for an optimum privacy feature. Speedify gives 5 GB of free data monthly which refreshes every 30 days.
10. SurfEasy VPN
SurfEasy VPN garnered many positive reviews on the Google Play Store about its features and performance. Apart from the basic features such as data encryption, no-logging policy, and unlocking geo-blocked websites, the app also has added highlights for those who download torrents if you avail of the ultra plan. Additionally, the service presents no leaks or malware and offers over 1000+ servers in 28+ countries However, the free service offers 500 MB bandwidth which you can use for only a few hours. You can avail of the premium features of the app for $5.99 monthly.
11. Thunder VPN
Thunder VPN is one of the most popular VPN apps on both Google Play and App Store with many bounties to offer to its users. Some of these include unlimited high-speed bandwidth, a no-logging policy, and a large number of servers all over the world. Plus, its sleek interface makes it easier to configure and connect to any of the servers available. The only downside that you have to bear in mind is that it offers average speed compared to the other VPN apps listed on this list. Thunder VPN contains ads but it is free to download.
12. Hide.me
Keeping your information private while browsing online doesn’t require much action. With Hide.me, you can enjoy a smooth and safe internet experience even when you’re using a public Wi-Fi connection. The app comes with 2 GB of monthly data allowance and doesn’t throttle speed even for free users. It also promises intensive security and freedom to its users since it doesn’t keep logs nor store user information. However, the service limits only to one device and three server locations such as Singapore, the Netherlands, and Canada. Hide.me is available for Android and iOS for free with no ads. However, if you avail of the premium version, you’ll get a wider scope of server locations.
13. Touch VPN
TouchVPN is a free VPN app that does all tricks with just a single tap. It provides banking-level security while making sure that you get the best of its services such as surfing the web anonymously and accessing any geo-restricted website across the globe. Upon downloading the app, you can connect to any of the following servers: Denmark, Sweden, United Kingdom, France, United States, Netherlands, and Canada.
14. Yoga VPN
Yoga VPN is one of the best VPNs for Android and iOS that is loved by many users for numerous reasons. This app features free VPN servers in seven countries, topped with unlimited bandwidth, and so much more. Not to mention, it boasts a no-logging policy and DNS-leak-free performance all throughout your app usage. To make things more interesting, Yoga VPN highlights its one-touch connect which is helpful to new users. You can download the app on Google Play Store and App Store for free. However, it displays ads from time to time.
15. Turbo VPN
Much like the other VPN apps on this list, Turbo VPN is a fast and easy-to-use app that provides good services to its users. You won’t have to worry about hacking attacks as this app lays out a robust security system to safeguard you from internet pirates such as data encryption using OpenVPN protocols (UDP/TCP). The app is also lightweight and doesn’t occupy much space in your device upon downloading. Turbo VPN is free to download on Google Play Store or on Apple Apps Store . Experience the app’s full service since it offers 7 days free trial to its users.
16. CyberGhost
CyberGhost is another acclaimed VPN that can do all the things you’d expect from a VPN application. With over 3000+ servers in over 60+ countries, you can definitely enjoy watching videos and playing online games that are banned from your current place. What makes it special is that it doesn’t keep tabs on your online activities so you have all the freedom to visit any site without prying eyes. Additionally, it supports fast and safe torrenting with its P2P feature. You can download the app on Google Play Store or on Apple App Store for free with 7-days free trial to its premium features.
What to avoid in a free mobile VPN
Not all free VPNs are safe. Avoid any app that sells user data, lacks a transparent privacy policy, injects ads into your browsing, or has no independent security audit. Red flags include apps that ask for unnecessary permissions, log your activity, or have no clear statement about what data they collect. Stick with VPNs that have been reviewed by security experts and have a proven track record of protecting user privacy.
How to set up a VPN on your iPhone or Android
Setting up a quality VPN on your phone is straightforward. Using ExpressVPN as the model, the general process is the same for most reputable VPNs. First, download the app from the official App Store or Google Play Store. Open the app and accept the terms of service. Sign in with your account credentials or, if you purchased through the app store, restore your subscription. When the operating system asks for permission to add VPN configurations, tap Allow. That is all it takes. Most premium VPNs follow this same App Store installation and VPN configuration approval flow. For Android, the process is similar: download from Google Play, sign in, and accept the VPN permission prompt.
Frequently asked questions about mobile VPNs
Will a VPN slow my phone?
Any VPN will add a small amount of latency because your traffic is encrypted and routed through a remote server. However, a well-optimized VPN like ExpressVPN with its Lightway protocol minimizes this slowdown. On a fast connection, the difference is often unnoticeable for browsing and streaming.
Is a free VPN safe?
Some free VPNs are safe, but many are not. Safe free options include ProtonVPN, Windscribe, and TunnelBear because they have clear privacy policies and do not sell user data. Avoid free VPNs that have no privacy policy, inject ads, or have not been independently audited. Always read the privacy policy before installing.
Can I use one VPN on both Android and iOS?
Yes, most premium VPN services allow you to use a single subscription on multiple devices, including both Android and iOS. ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and ProtonVPN all support simultaneous connections across platforms. Check the provider’s terms for the exact number of devices allowed.
Do I need a VPN on mobile data?
Using a VPN on mobile data can protect your browsing from your mobile carrier and any third parties that might monitor your traffic. It also helps you avoid throttling based on your activity, such as streaming video. However, it is not strictly necessary for everyday use if you trust your mobile carrier and the apps you use. If you are concerned about privacy from your carriers and plans, a VPN adds an extra layer of encryption regardless of whether you are on Wi-Fi or cellular data.
