With 33.8 million mobile users impacted by cyberattacks last year, using the best VPN services is vital. Whether you want to secure your data on public Wi-Fi, overcome restrictions, or unlock more streaming content on your iPhone, using the best VPN for iPhone is essential. In this guide, I’ve highlighted five top VPNs that excelled in our hands-on testing.
While Apple devices are secure, they can’t protect your data once it’s online. The best VPN for Apple encrypts your data before it leaves your device, ensuring your online activity stays private and secure. If you’re short on time, the top three VPNs listed offer great iOS performance, seamless integration, and advanced privacy features to suit any budget.
Quick Overview: Best VPN for iPhone in 2024
If you are trying to find the best VPN for iPhone , here is a quick overview, whether you’re seeking top-notch security, strong encryption, no-logs policy feature, kill switch feature, DNS & IPv6 leak protection. Top VPNs for iPhone typically include essential features like a kill switch, iPhone security enhancements, and user-friendly app interfaces tailored for iOS users. Here are the preferred best iOS VPN apps:
Why Do You Need a VPN For iPhone?
A top rated VPN for iPhone is like a guard for your online activity and keeps your privacy safe by encrypting the traffic as it travels between your iOS devices and the internet. It also shields your iPhone from snoops and cyber threats .
It also has the added benefit of hiding your IP address on your iPhone from hackers so they can’t track your surfing or intercept your data. Secondly, one of the best things about any safe iPhone VPN is that it allows you to access content that may be blocked in your region. Whether you’re travelling or want to access uncensored content , the best VPN for iPhone for international travel is a great way to do so.
5 Best VPNs for iPhone in 2024 – Detailed Analysis
When choosing the best VPN for iPhone 2024, it’s crucial to consider factors such as encryption, speed, simultaneous connections, jurisdiction, server availability, and price. Here’s a detailed analysis of the top VPN for iPhone for users to guide you in making an informed decision:
Surfshark
Surfshark – Budget-Friendly VPN for iPhone
Surfshark is a budget-friendly powerhouse that offers top-tier features without the hefty price tag. Installing it on my iPhone was straightforward, and I immediately appreciated the clean and user-friendly design of the app.
One subscription allows you to connect an unlimited number of devices, which is fantastic for families or anyone with multiple gadgets. I tested Surfshark on my iPhone, MacBook, and even my Smart TV, and the performance was seamless across all platforms.
With 3200+ servers in 100 countries, one feature that stood out was Surfshark’s ability to unblock multiple streaming services. During my tests, I accessed Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer without any issues. Speeds were solid, though not quite as fast as ExpressVPN, but more than enough for smooth HD streaming.
I also loved Surfshark’s CleanWeb feature, which blocks ads, trackers, and malware. It really cleaned up my browsing experience and even helped my phone’s battery last longer by reducing the amount of data used.
Another huge plus for Surfshark is its privacy-focused features like MultiHop, which routes your traffic through multiple countries to add an extra layer of security. It also has a strict no-logs policy, which is essential when you’re protecting your personal information.
For its price, Surfshark is an excellent option. It’s one of the cheap VPN for iPhone, especially for users who want strong security and unrestricted streaming without spending too much.
For more information on using a VPN on iPhone, check out my comprehensive Surfshark review.
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Pros
Cons
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN – Best VPN for iPhone
ExpressVPN remains my top pick for iPhone users, especially if speed and ease of use are priorities. It has the best iPhone VPN app. When I first downloaded the app, I was impressed by how simple it was to get started. The interface is clean, and I was connected to a secure server in less than 30 seconds.
ExpressVPN offers a server network in 105 countries, including the New Jersey server, New York server, Toronto, London, and Tokyo, making it one of the fastest VPNs for iPhone. What really blew me away was the consistent speed across different servers.
Whether I was connected to a nearby server or one halfway around the world, ExpressVPN maintained impressive speeds. I used it extensively while streaming Netflix in 4K, and I didn’t experience a single buffer, even when connecting to a server in Japan.
The standout feature for me is the TrustedServer technology, which ensures that no data is written to hard drives, giving me extra peace of mind about my online privacy. Combine this with ExpressVPN’s built-in kill switch and military-grade encryption, and I felt completely secure while using public Wi-Fi at airports and cafes which makes it the safest VPN for iPhone.
Sure, it’s on the pricier side, but the unparalleled speed and privacy features made it worth every penny, especially when you consider their 24/7 customer support that quickly resolved any questions I had.
If you want to review the provider in detail, don’t hesitate to read the ExpressVPN review.
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Pros
Cons
NordVPN
NordVPN – Secure and Fast Speed VPN for iPhone
NordVPN is one of the most recognized names in the VPN world, and for good reason. When I used NordVPN on my iPhone, I was struck by how well it balanced strong security with smooth performance.
NordVPN has the best VPN app iOS, as it is intuitive and easy to navigate, and connecting to one of the 6000+ servers worldwide took just seconds. I ran tests while using apps that require a lot of data, like YouTube and Twitch, and the connection remained stable, with minimal lag or buffering.
NordVPN’s standout feature is its focus on security. It uses double encryption to safeguard your data, which is an excellent feature if you’re dealing with sensitive information. Even when using public Wi-Fi at coffee shops or airports, I felt confident that my data was safe.
I also appreciated the CyberSec feature, which automatically blocked malicious websites and intrusive ads, making my browsing experience faster and more secure.
During testing, NordVPN was also highly effective at bypassing geo-blocks, giving me access to Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video with ease. Although NordVPN is slightly more expensive than some other options, the level of security it offers is unmatched, and it performs exceptionally well on iPhone.
Check out my comprehensive NordVPN review for more information.
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CyberGhost
CyberGhost – User Friendly VPN for iPhone
CyberGhost is a fantastic choice for iPhone users, especially if you’re new to VPNs or primarily looking for an easy-to-use service. As one of the best VPN apps for iPhone, I found the app incredibly user-friendly, with a simple interface that made connecting to a server quick and easy.
One of the things I liked most about CyberGhost was its optimized servers for streaming. I used it to access services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and HBO Max, and I never had to deal with buffering or slow speeds.
CyberGhost has 11651+ servers in 100 countries which are best for IP change, streaming, gaming, and safe transactions. CyberGhost is also a solid option for those concerned about privacy. During my testing, I found that CyberGhost adheres to a strict no-logs policy, so none of my data was being tracked or stored.
Additionally, the app offers automatic Wi-Fi protection, which is perfect if you frequently connect to public networks. Every time I connected to a new Wi-Fi network, the app automatically secured my connection, giving me peace of mind.
While CyberGhost isn’t as fast as ExpressVPN or NordVPN, it’s still more than capable of handling HD streaming, gaming, and general browsing. It’s a great option for beginners and those who want an easy-to-use VPN without compromising on key features like security and streaming access.
Read my CyberGhost review for more information.
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IPVanish
IPVanish – Reliable iPhone VPN for Beginners
IPVanish may not have the name recognition of some of the bigger players, but it’s a highly versatile option for iPhone users. It has the best VPN iPhone app which is easy to navigate, and I was impressed by its customizable features.
IPVanish allows you to tweak various connection settings, which is perfect for users who want more control over their VPN experience. I tested IPVanish while using various apps on my iPhone, and it performed well across the board.
IPVanish has a small fleet of 2200+ servers in 75+ locations. These servers are located in all major countries. This extensive network provides iPhone users with reliable and fast connections, ensuring easy access to a wide array of geo-restricted content and streaming services.
One of IPVanish’s biggest strengths is its ability to support unlimited simultaneous connections. I connected my iPhone, MacBook, and iPad all at once without any noticeable drop in performance. Streaming Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ was smooth, and I didn’t encounter any issues with geo-blocks.
Another aspect I appreciated was the SOCKS5 proxy option, which allowed me to use faster connections while maintaining privacy.
While IPVanish doesn’t include some of the advanced features found in NordVPN or ExpressVPN, like double encryption or optimized streaming servers, it’s still a solid, reliable option for those who want flexibility and strong performance across multiple devices.
It’s a great choice for anyone looking for a VPN that can handle both streaming and more advanced privacy needs without breaking the bank.
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Quick Features Comparison for Best VPNs for iPhones for 2024
Here’s a quick comparison table highlighting some of the best VPNs for iPhone :
| Feature |  |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Encryption | AES 256-bit | AES 256-bit | AES 256-bit | AES 256-bit | AES 256-bit |
| Server Speeds | Fast | Fast | Fast | Moderate | Fast |
| User Interface | Simple, intuitive | Minimalistic, easy | User-friendly, interactive | Easy to navigate | Streamlined, efficient |
| Customer Support | 24/7 chat, email | 24/7 chat, email | 24/7 chat, email | 24/7 chat, email | 24/7 chat, email |
| Simultaneous Connections | 8 | Unlimited | 10 | 7 | Unlimited |
| Multi-region Access | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Bandwidth | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| iOS Compatibility | iOS 12+ | iOS 13.0+ | iOS 11.0+ | iOS 13.0+ | iOS 14+ |
| Kill Switch | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| No-Log Policy | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Streaming Capabilities | Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, More | Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, More | Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, More | Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, More | Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, More |
| P2P/Torrenting | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| iOS Device Compatibility | All iOS devices | iPhone, Mac Mini, iPad, MacBook | iPhone, iPod, iMac Pro, Mac Mini | iPhone, MacBook, iPad, Mac Mini | iPhone, iPod, Mac Mini, iMac Pro |
| Pricing | $6.67/mo | $2.49/mo | $3.99/mo | $2.03/mo | $2.99/mo |
Testing Methodology: How to Choose the Best VPN for iPhone
Choosing the best VPN for your iPhone requires a comprehensive evaluation across multiple factors to ensure it meets your needs. Our testing methodology includes the following key criteria:
- Speed: I assess connection speeds on various servers to ensure fast browsing, smooth streaming, and minimal latency, which is crucial for gaming and video calls.
- Security: We evaluate the encryption standards, security protocols (like OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec), and additional features such as kill switches, split tunneling, and DNS leak protection to ensure your data is safe.
- Privacy: We analyze the VPN’s privacy policies, focusing on no-logs commitments, anonymous browsing capabilities, and features like IP masking to protect your online identity.
- Streaming Capabilities: We test the VPN’s ability to unblock popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+, ensuring it can bypass geo-restrictions and provide a buffer-free experience.
- Compatibility: We check for compatibility with various iPhone models and iOS versions, ensuring the VPN app integrates seamlessly with your device’s ecosystem.
- User Interface: We examine the VPN’s user interface for ease of use, especially on smaller screens, ensuring it’s intuitive and accessible for both beginners and advanced users.
- Server Network: We look at the size and distribution of the VPN’s server network, focusing on coverage in key regions like the USA, UK, and Australia to provide reliable connections and access to global content.
- Pricing and Plans: We consider the value offered by each VPN, compare features and performance against pricing tiers, and evaluate any free versions or trials available.
- Customer Support: We test the responsiveness and helpfulness of customer support channels, including live chat, email, and knowledge base resources, to ensure you can get assistance when needed.
By rigorously testing VPNs against these criteria, we identify the top options that offer speed, security, privacy, and versatility for iPhone users, helping you make an informed choice.
What is the Best VPN for iPhone in 2024?
Choosing the VPN best for iPhone in 2024 depends on what you prioritize—whether it’s speed, security, or price. However, after extensive testing, ExpressVPN stands out as the overall best VPN for iPhone users.
ExpressVPN, offers exceptional speed, top-tier security, and seamless integration with iOS. Whether you’re streaming, browsing, or securing your connection on public Wi-Fi, it performs reliably across the board.
For more budget-conscious users, Surfshark is a great alternative with unlimited device connections and solid security. NordVPN is ideal for those who prioritize privacy, with features like double encryption and a strict no-logs policy. While ExpressVPN is our top pick, the best VPN on iPhone depends on your specific needs.
What does a VPN for iPhone do?
Once your iPhone is connected to the internet, whether via your mobile network or Wi-Fi, it’s vulnerable to potential risks. This danger is heightened on unsecured public Wi-Fi, like those at cafes, hotels, or airports, where your data can be easily exposed. That’s where a VPN steps in to protect you.
A VPN reroutes your connection through its own servers, masking your location and giving you a new IP address, making it seem like you’re in a different location and someone else entirely. This encryption ensures all your online traffic is secure, keeping both you and your iPhone’s data safe from prying eyes.
Are iPhone VPNs Fully Featured?
VPNs for iOS generally offer the same features as those on other platforms, with a few limitations. Notably, iPhone VPNs can’t support split tunneling due to iOS’s code restrictions, though users rarely miss this feature.
Some smaller providers may put less effort into their iPhone apps than their Windows and Android counterparts. However, all the providers we recommend are clean, easy to use, and powerful.
Should I Use a Free VPN With an iPhone?
Yes, you can use a free VPN for an iPhone without a subscription, but it often has limitations like slower speeds, restricted geo-blocking, and potential functionality issues. These drawbacks can affect performance and reliability.
If you’re looking for a VPN solution without committing to a paid plan, there are several no cost VPNs that are reliable and trustworthy. While VPNs with no cost often come with limitations like data caps, fewer server options, and potential speed issues, they are still suitable for basic browsing and occasional use. Here are the VPNs with no-cost for iPhone:
- Windscribe: Windscribe offers a generous 10GB of free data per month and access to servers in over 10 countries. It’s a solid choice for those who need a no cost VPN for casual browsing and accessing region-locked content.
- ProtonVPN Free: ProtonVPN’s free plan stands out because it doesn’t impose any data limits. While the speed may be slower compared to its paid plans, it still offers robust security features and access to servers in three countries.
For more robust protection, consider a reliable option like ExpressVPN. It offers fast servers, strong security, and multi-device connectivity on a single plan, with a free trial period, making it an excellent choice for iPhone users.
Does My iPhone have a Built-in VPN Feature?
No, iOS devices do not come with a built-in VPN service. However, iOS does have support for configuring a VPN manually or through third-party VPN apps. This means you can easily download a VPN app from the App Store and set it up on your iPhone or iPad.
Apple’s iOS also supports VPN protocols like IKEv2, IPSec, and L2TP, allowing you to connect to a VPN service of your choice either through an app or by manually entering the VPN configuration in the device’s settings.
How to Set Up VPN on iPhone
Here’s a simple setup process for getting the best iPhone VPN :
- Visit the Apple App Store.
- Look for the VPN you want to install. My top recommendation is ExpressVPN for its lightweight and feature-rich iOS app.
- Sign in after launching the application.
- Allow the VPN application to add configurations.
- Connect to any server you like.
How to Set up a VPN on iPhone or iOS Manually
Here’s how to configure a VPN manually on an iPhone:
- Begin by tapping the “Settings” app from your iPhone’s Home Screen.
- Select “General” from the available options.
- Tap on “VPN” to proceed.
- Choose “Add VPN Configuration.”
- “Type,” select the VPN protocol you’re using, whether it’s IKEv2, IPSec, or L2TP.
- Provide the required information, including a description, remote ID, server details, and username and password.
- If you’re using a proxy server, you can enable it by selecting “Manual.”
- Click “Done” to save your VPN configuration.
5 Real-World Scenarios Where a VPN for iPhone Will Save the Day
5 real-world scenarios where a VPN for iPhone will save the day:
- Securing Public Wi-Fi Connections: Encrypts your internet traffic, protecting your data from hackers.
- Accessing Geo-Restricted Content: Spoof your location to access your favourite streaming services.
- Circumventing Censorship and Firewalls: Circumvent government or organizational restrictions on internet access.
- Protecting Sensitive Data During Online Transactions: Encrypts financial transactions, safeguarding sensitive information.
- Avoiding Price Discrimination: Compare prices from different regions to find the best deals.
Best VPNs for iPhone in 2024: Insights from Reddit Users
What are some good VPN options for iOS, especially free ones?
Based on Reddit user recommendations, the best VPN for iPhone right now appears to be NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark. These VPNs stand out due to their robust security features, reliable performance, and user-friendly interfaces. NordVPN’s additional Threat Protection Pro feature and ExpressVPN’s effectiveness in circumventing restrictions make them top choices.
What’s your experience with these or other VPNs on iPhones and other Apple devices?
Reddit users report positive experiences with NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark on both iPhone and other Apple devices. These VPNs provide seamless integration across iOS, macOS, and Apple TV, ensuring a consistent and secure user experience.
Users appreciate the reliable connections and strong security measures, specifically praising NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro feature and ExpressVPN’s performance in restricted environments. Mullvad and ProtonVPN also receive favourable mentions for their privacy-focused approaches and ease of use.
How’s the free version of Surfshark? Is it secure and hides my activity from ISP?
The Reddit thread does not explicitly discuss a free version of Surfshark, as this VPN generally does not offer a free tier. Users mention using Surfshark and appreciate its features, but for a free VPN recommendation, they suggest alternatives like Windscribe, which offers up to 25GB of data usage during promotional periods.
Regarding security, users emphasize that paid versions of reputable VPNs, including Surfshark, are generally more reliable in hiding activity from ISPs and ensuring data privacy. Therefore, a paid VPN service is advisable for better security and performance.
Can You Trust Your iPhone VPN Service?
When it comes to securing your online presence, the trustworthiness of your VPN service is important. It’s essential to consider the provider’s credibility, as this directly impacts the security and privacy of your online activities. A trustworthy VPN service openly communicates its privacy practices and maintains a hands-off approach concerning user data.
Transparency is another crucial factor. VPN services that have undergone independent audits or released transparency reports demonstrate higher reliability. By verifying their claims, these services ensure their ability to safeguard your data.
Lastly, it’s vital to understand the VPN’s data logging practices and under what circumstances it may share information with law enforcement. A service with a no-logs policy and a track record of protecting user anonymity is preferable for those prioritizing privacy.
Does Using a VPN Slow Down Your iPhone’s Internet Connection?
Yes, using a VPN can slow down your iPhone’s internet connection. This happens because your data is being encrypted and routed through a VPN server, which adds an extra step in the connection process. The extent of the slowdown depends on factors like the VPN server location, the encryption strength, and the server load.
However, with a high-quality VPN like ExpressVPN, the impact is often minimal and may not be noticeable for most everyday activities like browsing or streaming.
More VPN Guides By VPNRanks:
- Best VPN for Mac – Unleash the full power of your Mac with secure connectivity.
- Best VPN for Windows – Unveil the Best VPN iPhone for perfected protection on Windows.
- Best VPN for iPad – Empower your iPad with unmatched online security using a premium VPN service.
- Best VPN for Kodi – Unlock unlimited streaming possibilities with the ultimate VPN for Kodi.
- Best Residential VPN : Protect your digital haven with Residential VPN services.
FAQs – Best VPN for iPhone
What is the best VPN to use on iPhone?
ExpressVPN is considered the best VPN for iPhone users due to its robust security features and user-friendly interface. If speed is your priority, NordVPN is the fastest iOS VPN available. For those looking for a cost-effective option, Surfshark offers world-class service at a lower price, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious users.
What is the best free VPN for iOS?
The best free VPN for iPhone is ProtonVPN, offering unlimited data and strong security features without ads. Another good option is Windscribe, which provides up to 10GB of free data monthly with robust privacy protections.
Is a VPN good for iPhone?
Yes, although iPhones are generally secure, they are not immune to online privacy issues. VPNs help ensure the iPhone’s online security and user privacy, protect sensitive data on public Wi-Fi, and minimize ISP and third-party tracking activities. Thus, adding a VPN is a highly recommended addition to your iPhone’s online protection arsenal.
Which is the safest VPN for iPhone?
The safest VPN for iPhone is ExpressVPN, known for its top-tier security features like military-grade encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and TrustedServer technology. It ensures your data remains private and protected, even on public Wi-Fi or unsecured networks.
What does my ISP/mobile carrier see when I’m connected to my VPN?
When connected to a VPN, your ISP or mobile carrier can see the VPN’s IP address but not your online activities. This means your browsing, downloads, and viewed content remain hidden. A good VPN, like ExpressVPN, ensures your internet traffic is encrypted, keeping your online activities private.
Why is my VPN not working on iPhone?
Try to restart your iPhone. If it’s still not working, then here are the possible reasons:
- Reinstall the VPN app.
- Disable IPv6.
- Clear out the cookies and cache, or try a premium iPhone VPN service.
Is it safe to use a VPN on an iPhone?
Yes, it is safe to use a VPN on an iPhone . VPNs provide an extra layer of security by encrypting your internet traffic, protecting your data from hackers, and maintaining your privacy online.
Wrapping Up
Using a VPN for your iPhone is a great way to enhance your online security and privacy while accessing more content. The best VPN for iPhone offers robust encryption, a wide range of server locations, and the ability to circumvent geo-restrictions. These features ensure that your data remains secure and that you can enjoy content from different regions without limitations.
Finding the best VPN for iPhone 2024 is essential to ensure top-notch security and performance. The ideal VPN for this purpose is ExpressVPN. It offers fast speeds, a strong no-logs policy, and a user-friendly app that makes it easy to connect to servers worldwide.
Recent Comments 9
Why are there no free VPNs for iphones
Hi,
I have just bought an iPhone 7 about a week ago. I m pretty much amazed with its sleek design and impressive features. The AirPods work like magic with sophisticated sound quality.
However, I was searching for an iPhone 7 VPN as it would allow me to access blocked sites in my country. But shockingly, I couldn’t find any guide for installing VPN on iPhone 7.
Can you please help me to setup a VPN on iPhone 7?
Dear Melissa,
Thanks for commenting, iPhone 7 is no doubt a bedrock of entertainment and leisure, but geo-restrictions in various regions & cyber threats revolving around the iOS 10 can’t be neglected.
You can freely setup a VPN on an iPhone 7 and get the best out of it by reading our step by step guide about How to Setup VPN on iPhone 7.
I have been using iPhone 5S for a year and accessing blocked sites is my obsession. I must say VPN is the best gift that unblocking gurus gave us. Not only VPN offers unrestricted access to all blocked sites and services (with that I mean “all”), but it provides adequate online protection to iOS users which don’t come as stock. My count for strong online protection and unbeatable accessibility is PureVPN.
Hi Harriette,
Glad you liked my work. Undoubtedly, PureVPN makes the best VPN service for iPhone by far.
Nord user since 2016 here. I can definitely say that they keep improving every year and the app now looks and works very well. Sometimes it takes a bit more time to connect to the server, it depends on how far the server is from me so I guess it’s normal, other than that – recommended.
Dear TinyAssasin,
Thanks for reaching out to us. We are glad that you found NordVPN app useful for your privacy needs.
ExpressVPN and PureVPN do in fact offer money-back guarantee. If you meant a ‘no money down’ tree trial, then HMA and Iron Socket don’t offer that either.
That’s what we have mentioned in the ‘things they need to improve’ section because a lot of people are looking for free trial. Offering a free trial might just help them target more potential customers who will at least try the services if offered for free…