Best VPN for iPhone in 2024: Secure and Fast VPNs for iOS

  • Last updated September 11, 2024
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Unlock Ultimate Security and Streaming on Your iPhone with Our List of Best VPNs of 2024!

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:


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 ExpressVPN-logo-for-iphone surfshark-logo-for-iphone NordVPN-logo-for-nordvpn cyberghost-logo-for-iphone ipvanish-logo-for-iphone
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.


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 :

  1. Visit the Apple App Store.
  2. Look for the VPN you want to install. My top recommendation is ExpressVPN for its lightweight and feature-rich iOS app.
  3. Sign in after launching the application.
  4. Allow the VPN application to add configurations.
  5. 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.

demonstration-of-how-to-set-up-a-VPN-on-an-iPhone-featured-in-the-guide-on-best-VPNs-for-iPhone.

  • Choose “Add VPN Configuration.”
  • “Type,” select the VPN protocol you’re using, whether it’s IKEv2, IPSec, or L2TP.

Steps-to-manually-set-up-a-VPN-on-an-iPhone-from-the-best-VPNs-for-iPhone-article.

  • Provide the required information, including a description, remote ID, server details, and username and password.manual-VPN-setup-process-on-an-iPhone-included-in-the-best-VPNs-for-iPhone-guide.
  • If you’re using a proxy server, you can enable it by selecting “Manual.”
  • Click “Done” to save your VPN configuration.

Get ExpressVPN - Best VPN for iPhone Try Risk-Free for 30-Days

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:

  1. Securing Public Wi-Fi Connections: Encrypts your internet traffic, protecting your data from hackers.
  2. Accessing Geo-Restricted Content: Spoof your location to access your favourite streaming services.
  3. Circumventing Censorship and Firewalls: Circumvent government or organizational restrictions on internet access.
  4. Protecting Sensitive Data During Online Transactions: Encrypts financial transactions, safeguarding sensitive information.
  5. 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:


FAQs – Best VPN for 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

  • Robert Donnelly says:

    Why are there no free VPNs for iphones

  • Melissa says:

    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?

    • Abdul Rehman says:

      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.

  • harriette says:

    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.

    • Abdul Rehman says:

      Hi Harriette,

      Glad you liked my work. Undoubtedly, PureVPN makes the best VPN service for iPhone by far.

  • TinyAssassin says:

    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.

    • Abdul Rehman says:

      Dear TinyAssasin,

      Thanks for reaching out to us. We are glad that you found NordVPN app useful for your privacy needs.

  • Anril says:

    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.

    • Abdul Rehman says:

      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…


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