7 Best Mobile VPN Apps in 2023

No matter if you use iOS, iPadOS, or Android, your personal data is up for grabs by practically anyone interested in harvesting it. While app developers collect data for benign reasons (mostly analytics), malicious apps and individuals can access your highly sensitive data, including your payment info, address, images, etc. However, that's where the best mobile VPN apps come into play, creating a much-needed security layer between you and the Internet.

If you check the App Store/Play Store, you’ll find hundreds of VPNs saying they’re the best VPN mobile app. However, only a handful of VPNs deserve that title. So, to help you pinpoint those worth your time and money, we tested more than 65 VPNs on our iOS, iPadOS, and Android smartphones and tablets.

With that said, the following recommendations come with bulletproof encryption. They all preserve your digital privacy without allowing anyone to track you online. Even the VPNs found below won't know what you do on the Web. Also, they let you unblock new streaming apps and other digital services. So, we'll make sure to explain everything thoroughly.

So, ready to learn about the best VPNs for mobile phones and tablets? If you are, keep reading!

How to Use a VPN on Your Mobile Device

It’s incredibly easy to install and start using a VPN on your iPhone, iPad, or Android device. You just need to go through the following steps:

1. Pick an ultra-powerful VPN app for your mobile device, such as ExpressVPN (you can even try ExpressVPN risk-free for 30 days).
2. Sign up for your chosen VPN to initialize your subscription.
3. Visit Apple’s App Store or Google’s Play Store on your device.
4. Your VPN will offer a native app. So, download that app to your phone or tablet.
5. Launch the VPN. Access your account using your credentials.
6. That’s it! You can now connect to a secure server and protect your privacy.

Best Mobile VPN Apps

The best mobile VPN app must bring a no-logs policy, ensuring your data is never collected. Then, it should bring robust protocols (like OpenVPN and WireGuard), bulletproof encryption (AES 256-bit), plenty of servers strategically placed worldwide, unlimited bandwidth, and the ability to unblock websites and apps.

We used the requirements noted above to separate the best VPNs from those that aren't worth your time. With that said, here are the 7 best VPNs for mobile devices:

1. ExpressVPN – Best Mobile VPN App Overall
2. NordVPN – Best for Privacy & Security
3. CyberGhost VPN – Best for Streaming & Entertainment
4. Surfshark – Best for First-Time VPN Users
5. Private Internet Access – Best for Experienced VPN Users
6. IPVanish – Best One-Click VPN App
7. Ivacy VPN – Best Budget-Friendly VPN App

1. ExpressVPN – Best Mobile VPN App Overall

ExpressVPN is the best VPN for mobile phones and tablets by a long shot. All our other picks are solid options for specific types of users, but ExpressVPN is excellent for practically anyone. That's because you get privacy, speed, advanced features, many servers, and more.

ExpressVPN works on iOS, iPadOS, and Android in terms of mobile devices. It also works on any other platform imaginable, including Amazon’s Kindle and Fire OS, powering a range of affordable tablets. Then, you get 5 simultaneous connections, so you’ll get to protect more than your mobile devices.

This VPN has a uniform design on every platform. On both iOS and Android, ExpressVPN is easy to use and requires no more than a minute of your time to set it up. Once you do so, you'll get access to 3,000+ servers in 90+ countries. All those servers are powered by solid protocols (such as Lightway, a proprietary protocol available on iOS/Android), bulletproof encryption, and a no-logs policy.

The Android app even packs highly advanced features, such as split tunneling and a kill switch. However, the iOS/iPadOS app also has something unique. That would be a feature called ‘Threat Manager,’ preventing anyone from collecting your online activity (including your ISP, any subcontractors, and individual app developers).

In the end, we'll say that ExpressVPN is excellent for practically any use. This VPN should be your pick if you want to protect your privacy, unblock streaming apps, get more out of your gaming session, or browse the Web securely.

Learn more via our ExpressVPN review.

2. NordVPN – Best for Privacy & Security

NordVPN is one of the most recognizable VPN brands for many good reasons. It takes great pride in its privacy-protecting features, which are unparalleled in the world of VPNs. Still, NordVPN can do more than make your data vanish off the face of the Earth.

We’ll start by saying that NordVPN works on iOS, iPadOS, and Android. Unlike most other VPNs, this one brings a modular interface that works great on screens of any size. In other words, its tablet apps are optimized for larger screens, presenting more information at once. NordVPN’s phone apps also look great, separating features and information into individual panels.

Another great thing about NordVPN is its server network. You get 5,500+ servers in around 60 countries. This VPN also brings specialized servers, such as P2P and ‘Onion over VPN’ servers, both of which are available on iOS and Android. Furthermore, Android users get access to ‘Double VPN’ servers as well.

A recently released feature called ‘Threat Protection' is also available on mobile devices. It’s designed to block malicious websites and ads. It’s not as powerful as its desktop counterpart, which also prevents cookies and scans for malware. However, it’s more than helpful as a tool for preserving your privacy on the go.

Based on our tests, this VPN is also an excellent option for torrenting and streaming. NordVPN is one of the fastest VPNs available, which is the result of the VPN’s recent overhaul of its sever network. Now, both nearby and remote servers work equally fast.

For more information, here’s our NordVPN review.

3. CyberGhost VPN – Best for Streaming & Entertainment

CyberGhost is one of the longest-standing VPNs known for its streaming-optimized servers. However, even though we recommend it for streaming, we don’t think CyberGhost isn’t suitable for other uses. This is a well-rounded mobile VPN app with lots to offer.

Without any surprise, CyberGhost VPN works on any mobile device. It comes with iOS, iPadOS, and Android apps, which means it covers phones and tablets. You’ll get 7 simultaneous connections in total, so don’t hesitate to install it on your computer and other devices as well.

Getting started with CyberGhost requires no technical knowledge. Get a subscription and then access your online dashboard to check the VPN’s apps. You can also download it from the App Store and Play Store. And once you do so, you’ll get unrestricted access to 8,000+ servers, 90+ countries, and 110+ locations in total.

You’ll be happy to know that streaming-optimized servers are available on both iOS and Android. You can use those to unblock Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, Disney Plus, and more. This VPN also unblocks many European streaming services, many of which come free of charge. So, you’ll unblock a whole new world of entertainment.

We’ll also add that CyberGhost’s Android app has a kill switch and split tunneling. The iOS app has a built-in kill switch, but split tunneling is not on offer. Also, you’ll be limited to WireGuard on your iPhone or iPad, while the Android app has access to OpenVPN and IKEv2 as well.

Learn more about this capable VPN via our CyberGhost VPN review.

4. Surfshark – Best for First-Time VPN Users

Surfshark is the youngest VPN you’ll find in this guide. However, that’s actually its biggest strength. Being able to inspect its competition, this VPN has managed to create a compelling set of features, even managing to surpass top-rated mobile VPN apps.

Surfshark brings native software for all currently popular platforms. When it comes to mobile operating systems, Surfshark’s app is available on the iOS App Store and Google Play Store. You can also download its APK file from its official website, so sideloading is possible. On top of that, you get unlimited simultaneous connections.

In terms of its server network, you'll get access to 3,200+ servers in 95 countries. All those servers are available from your mobile devices as well. The VPN's server fleet has recently become present in more countries, which is a trend that'll continue in the future as well.

We’ll also add that Surfshark’s Android app brings a kill switch and split tunneling. That same kill switch is present on iOS as well, but there’s no split tunneling. So, even though there’s a slight difference in the features available for iOS and Android, Surfshark doesn’t differentiate those platforms in terms of the available protocols.

No matter what platform you use, you’ll get WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2. You’ll also be able to use multiple servers at once, check your email for data breaches, and do a secure online search (instead of using Google). We’ll also mention that the Android app allows you to scramble your GPS data without rooting your device.

Make sure to read our Surfshark review if you need more information on this VPN.

5. Private Internet Access – Best for Experienced VPN Users

Like the rest of our picks for the best VPNs for mobile devices, Private Internet Access (PIA) takes your privacy seriously. In fact, PIA is perhaps the most capable VPN in that regard, as it gives you access to an endless range of customization options.

PIA’s impressive list of features begins with its platform support. You’ll find it available on the iOS App Store and Google Play Store. So, getting started is unbelievably simple. You’ll also get to use PIA “out of the box,” as the VPN already comes equipped to encrypt your data even on the most restrictive networks.

However, PIA’s true power lies in its high-end features. On Android, you’ll get protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard. There's advanced split tunneling, letting you set custom rules for particular apps or websites. And also, there’s something called PIA Mace, which prevents ads and trackers via the VPN’s own DNS-based traffic routing.

On iOS and iPadOS, you can use OpenVPN and WireGuard, the same as on Android. You'll also get a kill switch, but you won’t see split tunneling available (due to iOS’ own restrictions). PIA Mace is there as well, as well as intelligent IP cloaking, which works with all 30,000+ PIA servers (yes, you read that right – PIA has a massive server fleet).

We’ll also add that PIA comes with a verified no-logs policy. All of its apps, including those for iOS, iPadOS, and Android, are 100% open-source. That makes PIA one of the most transparent and secure VPNs available today.

Need more information? If you do, here’s our Private Internet Access review.

6. IPVanish – Best One-Click VPN App

IPVanish is a straightforward, one-click VPN app. It's made for those who seek a VPN that will run in the background without any input. IPVanish meets that demand perfectly fine, giving you the basics you need to secure your privacy on an iOS, iPadOS, or Android device.

Make no mistake – this VPN offers fully functional apps for iPhones, iPads, and Android devices. So, no manual configuration is needed. Once you open its app for the first time, IPVanish will ask you a few questions. That means you’ll get to fine-tune it as per your needs, letting the VPN take it from there.

On Android, you get protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2, IPsec, and WireGuard. You also get split tunneling and a kill switch. On iOS, you get IKEv2, IPsec, and WireGuard. There’s also an option to use IPVanish’s or third-party DNS service. Both of those apps give you access to 2,000+ servers in 75+ locations, as well as AES-256 encryption.

As you can see, we haven’t mentioned any high-end or unique features. That’s because IPVanish sticks to the basics. There are no sophisticated systems for battling trackers or dedicated privacy-friendly search engines. With that said, if all you need is a basic yet reliable and trustworthy VPN, this one is a good pick.

Let’s also mention that IPVanish is a good option for streaming – if you stick to mainstream digital services. It works reliably with Netflix, Disney Plus, and BBC iPlayer. On top of that, it fully supports P2P traffic on all its supported devices.

Discover more by reading our in-depth IPVanish review.

7. Ivacy VPN – Best Budget-Friendly VPN App

Ivacy is an excellent example of how a capable mobile VPN for your iPhone or Android device doesn't have to cost much. This is one of the most affordable options available right now while also giving you a lot of value overall. So, Ivacy comes as a sensible purchase.

In terms of using Ivacy, you’ll get to count on its native software. Even though it’s not the most modern-looking, Ivacy’s software is usable and comes without any complications. You also get 10 simultaneous connections, giving you plenty of room to grow, so to speak.

We'll also mention that Ivacy is a secure VPN with no prior records of recording user data. One of the reasons for that lies in the VPN's selection of protocols. On Android, you'll be protected by OpenVPN. When it comes to iOS, you'll be covered by IKEv2/IPsec. That's not the most secure protocol available, but it's still more than enough to keep you safe.

Ivacy's peculiar selection of protocols has another benefit. It's pretty fast, especially if you don't connect to overly remote servers. The VPN has servers optimized for streaming, letting you unblock mainstream and niche digital platforms. However, if you need extra-remote servers to unblock websites (based on your physical location), you're better off using another VPN.

We’ll also mention that a kill switch and split-tunneling are available, but only on Android. That means Ivacy's mobile apps aren't equal, as its Android app seems more capable, so it's obvious which group of mobile users we recommend this VPN primarily.

Dive into this VPN’s features by checking our Ivacy VPN review.

Why Do You Need a VPN App for Mobile Phones and Tablets?

There are many reasons to get a VPN for your mobile phone and tablet. You'll get to protect your privacy, ensure no one follows you on the Web, reach new types of digital services, and more. Find more information just below.

1. Hide Your Web Browsing Activity from Anyone

Did you know that your ISP (Internet Service Provider) tracks your every move? That's true, no matter where you're currently located. ISPs worldwide adhere to mandatory data retention laws, which means they actively collect and store your data.

However, once you start using a VPN, you’ll hide your browsing history from your ISP. The same applies to the files you download. Since everything will be encrypted, your ISP will be in the dark regarding your online activities.

2. Prevent Trackers Employed by Sites & Apps

As mentioned earlier, there are all kinds of trackers when it comes to iOS, iPadOS, and Android. And even though Apple seems to be more reasonable than Google in that regard, you’re still open to third-party tracking by developers and malicious individuals.

The best mobile VPN apps employ advanced anti-tracking mechanisms. For example, ExpressVPN comes with 'Threat Manager,' a DNS-level blocker. NordVPN employs 'Threat Protection' to block tracking cookies. Surfshark has ‘Nexus,’ a way to use multiple servers to evade trackers.

3. Bypass Geo-Restrictions

Practically every digital service is restricted to specific regions. And even international digital services, such as Netflix, are forced to offer country-based libraries to adhere to broadcast rights. However, those geo-restrictions become a thing of the past when using VPNs.

A VPN optimized for streaming helps you unblock Netflix, Hulu, Disney Plus, HBO Max, Prime Video, Paramount Plus, and practically any other streaming service.

4. Avoid Censorship Issues

In many countries, digital censorship is a growing issue. That’s why many countries are battling against VPNs, as those digital tools are the best way to access information online. However, you need to be careful when picking a VPN, as you'll want the most secure one you can get.

For more information, turn to our guide on the best VPNs with a no-logs policy. Furthermore, you can learn how to verify VPN no-logs claims.

5. Improve Your Connection’s Stability

It’s no secret that many ISPs throttle their customers’ connections during bandwidth-intensive activities, such as streaming. As said above, that’s possible because your ISP can see everything you do online. However, by encrypting your traffic, you can bypass ISP throttling, which means you’ll regain the maximum speed of your connection.

The same applies to gaming. If you like to play multiplayer games on your iPhone, iPad, or Android, especially via cloud services like Xbox’s Game Pass, a VPN will help you minimize your latency and ping. As a result, games will be more responsive since your connection will be more stable.

Final Thoughts

Even though you have plenty of options, we’ll remind you that our #1 recommendation is ExpressVPN. Without a doubt, that’s the best VPN for mobile devices, no matter if you use iPhone, iPadOS, Android, or some other mobile platform.

If you wish to expand your search, we recommend our central guide to the best VPNs available right now. You’ll find more VPNs there, all of which are ultra-secure, trustworthy, and reputable, letting you protect yourself at home and on the go.

That’s it for our guide on the best mobile VPN apps. If you have any questions, let us know via the comments section below. Lastly, thank you for reading!