Best VPN For Android in 2024: Tested & Reviewed By Experts

  • Last updated September 8, 2024
  • Naveen Zehra
    Naveen Zehra
    Naveen Zehra
    Editor
    Naveen Zehra, an editor at VPNRanks.com, has a decade of writing experience. With a strong background in tech and privacy, she creates easy VPN guides. Passionate about privacy, she understands data tracking and its impacts, ensuring her insights resonate with readers.
    See Full Bio >
    written by
    Naveen Zehra
    Naveen Zehra
    Naveen Zehra
    Editor
    Naveen Zehra, an editor at VPNRanks.com, has a decade of writing experience. With a strong background in tech and privacy, she creates easy VPN guides. Passionate about privacy, she understands data tracking and its impacts, ensuring her insights resonate with readers.
    See Full Bio >
    Editor

Android devices are incredibly popular, with 3.9 billion users worldwide enjoying their flexibility and wide range of apps. However, these devices face risks like public Wi-Fi vulnerabilities, ad tracking, and geo-restricted content. Finding the best VPN for Android is essential to keep your online traffic secure and your personal data private.

The best VPN services help encrypt your info, hide your IP address, and protect your web traffic from hackers and third-party organizations. After extensive research, I found ExpressVPN to be the best for Android. It offers fast speeds, strong security features, and an easy-to-use Android app. With ExpressVPN, you can unblock streaming platforms, secure public Wi-Fi, and ensure your ISP can’t monetize your data.


Key Takeaways:

  • Importance of a VPN: A VPN is crucial for securing online traffic and personal data on Android devices.
  • Top Recommendation: ExpressVPN is the best VPN for Android, offering fast speeds, strong security, and ease of use.
  • Android Compatibility: These VPNs support multiple Android versions and offer features like split tunneling and various protocols.
  • Speed and Performance: ExpressVPN, Surfshark, and NordVPN provide high-speed connections for smooth streaming and browsing.
  • Security and Privacy: These VPNs offer military-grade encryption, no-logs policies, ad and malware blocking, and kill switch features.

Best VPN for Android – Quick Overview

While many reputable VPN apps exist on the Google Play Store, it’s important to be wary of some VPN apps that may not prioritize user privacy and security.

So, what’s the best VPN for Android phones? To help you answer this question, I conducted thorough research to help you find the best VPN for Android for 2024. Take a look at the summary.

Comparison Table – Top VPNs for Android Devices in 2024

If you’re still having trouble deciding which best VPN Android apps to get for your device, you can check out the table below to quickly compare the features of all of the best VPN app Android covered in this blog.​

VPNs ExpressVPN-logo surfshark-logo NordVPN-logo logo-cyberghost logo-PIA
Android Compatibility Android 12, 11, 10, Pie (9), Oreo (8. x), Nougat (7. x), Marshmallow (6. x), and Lollipop (5. x) Android 5.0 and above, smartphones, Android tablets, Smart TVs, API versions 21 and later Android 5.0 and above Android 5.0 and above Android 5.1 and above
Split Tunneling Yes Yes No Yes Yes
Protocols Lightway and OpenVPN WireGuard and IKEv2 NordLynx and OpenVPN WireGuard and OpenVPN WireGuard and OpenVPN
Average Speed 87.18 Mbps 81.32 Mbps 83.82 Mbps 75.47 Mbps  65.78 Mbps
IP Addresses Dynamic Dynamic, static Dedicated, static Dynamic Dedicated, Dynamic
Streaming Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and More Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and More Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and More Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and More Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and More
Torrenting Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Jurisdiction The British Virgin Islands Netherlands (Part of FVEY) Panama Romania USA (Part of FVEY)
Money-back guarantee 30 days 30 days 30 days 45 days 30 days
Best Subscription Plan $6.67/mo $2.49/mo $3.99/mo $2.03/mo $2.11/mo

Best Android VPNs in 2024 [Detailed Analysis]

After rigorously testing 50+ Android VPN apps, I’ve identified the top VPNs, focusing on the number of servers, security, privacy, performance features, and value for money. Based on my comprehensive analysis, here’s a detailed look at the best VPNs for Android users.

What to Look for in a VPN for Android?

Here are the key factors that you must look at while choosing a VPN for Android:

  1. User-friendly VPN Android App: First, ensure the VPN you’re getting offers a dedicated app for Android that is easy to install and use. You should avoid getting VPNs that require manual configurations. Instead, it should have apps for various devices and smartphone models running on Android OS.
  2. High Speeds: The most important criterion for the best VPN app for Android is speed. You don’t want to wait hours to upload files or for the videos to load. So, choosing a VPN that offers a high-speed connection is important.
  3. Security and Privacy: I have chosen those VPNs that include a kill switch, split tunnelling, Dark Web surveillance, enough protocols, specialized servers, and an ad blocker to provide an extra layer of security. A reliable VPN for Android will never keep any of your personal information, including your real IP address. That’s why all providers on this list have a strict or audited no-logs policy.
  4. Simultaneous connections: The VPN you choose should support at least 5 devices per VPN account to secure multiple devices simultaneously. Similarly, it should also be compatible with various platforms and routers. I recommend using ExpressVPN, the best VPN for Android, phones and other devices.
  5. Ability to circumvent geo-blocks: Make sure the VPN you choose can circumvent geo-restrictions and firewalls. It should also work with all major sites like Netflix, Disney Plus, Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and more.
  6. Customer Support: The best Android VPN should offer 24/7 customer support with a live chat feature so that you can get help in case of connectivity or technical issues.

Other VPNs I Tested for Android

When exploring a range of VPNs for Android, aside from the top five VPN recommendations for Android users, I also investigated additional services to provide a broader view of what’s available on the market.

Below, I’ll detail three other VPNs that, while not making the top tier, still offer noteworthy features and performance for Android users:

IPVanish:

IPVanish stands out with its strong commitment to privacy, which is ideal for Android users who prioritize data security. The VPN supports unlimited devices simultaneously, making it perfect for a household with multiple Android gadgets. It is one of the VPNs with no logging policy for Android, and its strong encryption methods keep your online activities confidential and secure.

The Android app is intuitive, allowing easy connection to a vast network of servers worldwide. This flexibility makes it suitable for circumventing geo-restrictions and enhancing streaming experiences on Android devices. Moreover, the service offers 24/7 customer support, which is particularly helpful for troubleshooting on mobile platforms.

Get IPVanish for just: $2.99/mo

ProtonVPN:

ProtonVPN’s Android app is designed for ease of use, featuring a default always-on kill switch and a VPN Accelerator to enhance connection speeds. Its security is rigorous, backed by the strong privacy laws of Switzerland, and it includes features like Secure Core servers for additional protection against network attacks.

While the free version of ProtonVPN is robust, offering high-level encryption and no data caps, it restricts access to all servers and some advanced features. Upgrading to a premium plan grants full features, including access to Secure Core and Tor over VPN, which are especially valuable for users concerned with privacy on their Android devices.

Get ProtonVPN for just: 4.80/month

Windscribe:

Windscribe’s Android app mirrors its desktop counterpart and includes unique features such as R.O.B.E.R.T., a customizable blocklist system that enhances user privacy and security. The user-friendly interface offers detailed control over connection options and server selection, which benefits users who require specific configurations.

Windscribe’s generous free version offers 10GB of monthly data and unlimited simultaneous connections, which is quite competitive. For those who need more from their VPN, such as optimized streaming or additional privacy features, upgrading to a paid plan provides enhanced capabilities and better performance on Android devices.

Get Windscribe for just: $5.75/month

Why Do I Need an Android VPN?

You need a VPN to enhance your online activity, protect your privacy on Android devices when browsing or using your favourite apps, and safeguard your data. Whether you’re connected to cellular data (3G, 4G, 5G, etc.) or Wi-Fi, smartphones are a major target for hackers because they handle a wealth of personal information.

Additionally, a VPN encrypts your internet traffic, shielding your activities and data from cyber threats and helping prevent identity theft. Aside from that, here are the other reasons why an Android VPN is important:

  1. Accessing Blocked Websites: A VPN masks your IP address, providing one from a different location. This is invaluable for accessing region-blocked websites, especially when travelling to countries with content restrictions.
  2. More Content Options: A VPN allows you to access a wider array of content on platforms like Netflix, which varies by country. Switch your server to access unavailable shows and movies in your region.
  3. Avoid ISP Throttling: If you’re experiencing slow internet, it might be due to ISP throttling. The best Android VPN can prevent this by hiding your IP address and encrypting your activity, keeping your browsing speed unaffected.
  4. Get Around Censorship: In countries with internet censorship, a VPN provides access to unrestricted information by connecting to servers in freer countries. This supports your right to information regardless of local restrictions.
  5. Encrypts your Finance Activities: Using VPNs with strong encryption for Android can help protect your personal information by encrypting your data and masking your IP address with top-notch security features like AES 256-bit encryption provided by reliable VPN services.

By employing a good VPN for Android, like ExpressVPN, which provides robust encryption and a versatile selection of server locations, you can greatly enhance the security and flexibility of your Android device. This protects your personal information and expands your digital accessibility and freedom.

How to Use an Android VPN?

Setting up a VPN on your Android phone is straightforward. Here’s a simple guide to help you get the best VPN for Android:

  1. Opt for a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN.
  2. Search for ExpressVPN in the Play Store and install it.
  3. Open the app and enter your subscription details.
  4. Open the Settings app on your device.
  5. Go to Network & Internet, then select VPN.
  6. If it’s not visible, use the search function and type VPN.” (If it still doesn’t appear, consult your device’s manufacturer for assistance.)
  7. Choose the VPN.
  8. Enter your username and password.
  9. Click on Connect.
  10. If you are using a VPN application, it will launch automatically.
Get ExpressVPN - Best VPN for Android 30-day money-back guarantee

What is the Most Secure VPN for Android?

The most secure VPN for Android combines top-notch encryption, robust privacy features, and excellent performance. Here are some of the best options:

VPN Unique Features How They Are Best
ExpressVPN Fast speeds, TrustedServer technology Best for streaming and overall performance
Surfshark Unlimited devices, CleanWeb feature Best for affordability and blocking ads/malware
NordVPN Double VPN, CyberSec feature Best for extra security layers and blocking ads/malware
CyberGhost Dedicated streaming servers, NoSpy servers Best for streaming and privacy
PIA MACE ad blocker, customizable encryption Best for customization and ad-blocking

Choosing the right VPN ensures your Android device remains secure and private. Here’s more on how these VPNs protect and enhance your Android experience.

How do VPNs Protect Android Devices from Cyber Threats?

VPNs protect Android devices by encrypting your internet traffic, hiding your IP address, and preventing third-party tracking. This encryption ensures that even if hackers intercept your data, they can’t read it.

VPNs also prevent ISPs and other entities from monitoring your online activities, providing additional privacy and security against various cyber threats.

Which VPNs Offer Split Tunnelling on Android?

ExpressVPN, Surfshark, NordVPN, and PIA all offer split tunnelling on Android. Split tunnelling allows you to choose which apps use the VPN connection and which use the regular internet.

This feature is useful for optimizing performance, as you can route sensitive activities through the VPN while allowing other activities to access the internet directly, reducing overall bandwidth usage.

Can Android VPNs Block Ads and Malware?

Yes, VPNs like Surfshark, NordVPN, and PIA come with built-in features to block ads and malware, enhancing your browsing experience and security. Surfshark’s CleanWeb, NordVPN’s CyberSec, and PIA’s MACE are designed to block malicious websites, trackers, and intrusive ads, providing a safer and more streamlined online experience on your Android device.

Redditors’ Suggestions on the Best Android VPN

While looking for the top-rated VPN services for Android suggestion, I came across a Reddit thread where an original poster sought advice on fast VPNs for Android devices with strong privacy features and broad server coverage. They wanted a service that excels in accessing geo-restricted content and preferably offers unlimited data.

A Redditor named fondCurlew69498 vouched for PureVPN, noting its ease of use and effectiveness in maintaining privacy and accessing international streaming sites with minimal speed reductions. They also highlighted a promotional offer that made PureVPN an economical choice, aligning well with the original poster’s needs.

From my personal experience, when I encountered similar requirements, I found that ExpressVPN was the best VPN for Android. Its unmatched speed, extensive server network, and robust security features have consistently provided a seamless and secure online experience.

How do VPNs Impact the Battery life of Android Devices?

Using a VPN on your Android device can affect battery life, with each VPN impacting it differently. The graph below shows how various popular VPNs influence battery life on Android devices.

VPNs-impact-the-battery-life-of-Android-devices

The graph above shows the impact of different VPNs on the battery life of Android devices. The battery life is slightly reduced when using a VPN, varying slightly among different VPN providers:

  • ExpressVPN: Approximately 10 hours
  • Surfshark: Approximately 10.5 hours
  • NordVPN: Approximately 9.8 hours
  • CyberGhost: Approximately 10.2 hours
  • PIA: Approximately 10.3 hours

This data indicates that while all VPNs reduce battery life to some extent, Surfshark has the least impact among the listed options, providing slightly longer battery life than others.

Which is the Best Free VPN for Android?

Yes, Android users can take advantage of ProtonVPN, a standout free VPN option. It’s recognized as one of the top free VPNs available, offering unlimited usage for a fast and stable connection. ProtonVPN allows you to access your preferred websites, boost your gaming experience, and ensure your online actions remain anonymous.

While free VPN apps for Android are available, they often have limitations such as data caps, fewer server options, and potentially compromised security. For comprehensive protection and better service, consider a reputable paid VPN that offers a free trial or money-back guarantee to test its features.

For those requiring more extensive VPN functionalities and access to a broader range of servers worldwide, a premium VPN service with a free trial might be worth considering. ExpressVPN, for example, provides a free trial that exposes users to the comprehensive capabilities of a high-quality VPN service, including exceptional customer support and continuous protection.

Android VPNs to Avoid

Knowing about the Android VPNs to avoid is equally important to learn which ones to choose. A bad decision can lead to disastrous consequences, costing you financial and data loss. I present some VPNs that Android users must avoid in 2024:

1. Hola VPN:

Hola VPN uses devices as exit nodes for other users to pass their traffic. In addition, the provider has a bad history of selling idle bandwidth of users, which greatly affects VPN connection speeds. Additionally, I found compatibility issues with Android devices: outdated apps and complicated features are not easy for a newbie VPN user to come by. Read the Hola VPN review for more information.

2. HideMyAss (HMA)

HideMyAss has a bad track record as of 2011. Then, it collaborated with the FBI to track a hacker. HMA gave the FBI access to its dedicated IP addresses and activity logs, which were used to catch a criminal named Cody Kretsinger. It clearly shows that HMA stores user data and is unsafe for privacy-focused activities. Read the HideMyAss review for more details.

3. Zenmate

Zenmate is not a safe VPN for Android because I detected DNS and IP leaks several times during testing. Moreover, its privacy policy seems dubious, as it confuses me about which data is logged. That is why it’s best to avoid this VPN service provider altogether. You can read the Zenmate review for more information.

Explore More Essential VPN Guides from VPNRanks

FAQs – Best VPN for Android

ExpressVPN is my top recommendation for Android users. It provides a comprehensive security package that includes a fast VPN, top-notch anti-virus protection, and effective ad-blocking tools. Additionally, it excels in streaming performance, unblocking nearly every platform.

Yes, Android includes a built-in VPN client supporting PPTP, L2TP/IPSec, and IPSec protocols. Devices running Android 4.0 and later also support VPN apps. You might need a VPN app for additional features or to configure the VPN using an enterprise mobility management (EMM) console.

Using a VPN on your Android phone enhances your security. A strong VPN utilizes bank-grade encryption to protect your data while in transit, making it extremely difficult for hackers to intercept your connection. Think of your data travelling through a tunnel that no one else can see into or use.

A VPN can slow down your internet connection, but with a premium VPN, this slowdown is typically unnoticeable. Both free and paid VPNs will use some bandwidth for encryption purposes. Without encryption, a VPN is just a VN.

Yes, there are free VPNs for Android that are safe to use. However, it’s important to choose a reputable provider to ensure your data remains protected. Some highly recommended free VPNs include ProtonVPN, which offers unlimited data but with slower speeds, and Windscribe, which provides a generous data allowance and strong security features.

ExpressVPN stands out for its fast speed on Android. It consistently delivers high-speed connections thanks to its optimized server network, making it ideal for streaming, gaming, and browsing without noticeable lag.

NordVPN is known for its user-friendly interface on Android. It features an intuitive design with easy-to-navigate options, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced users alike.

VPNs are legal in most countries, including the US, Japan, and the United Kingdom. However, it’s important to note that some countries have restrictions on VPN use, with penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment for violations. Always check the specific laws in your location before using a VPN.

Wrapping Up!

By utilizing the best VPN for Android, these challenges can be effectively circumvented. An Android VPN encrypts your internet connection, masking your IP address and making your online activities virtually untraceable. This secures your data on public networks and allows you to circumvent geographical restrictions, giving you access to a world of content and services.

After Android VPN reviews and comparisons, I recommend you use ExpressVPN. It is the best VPN for Android because it offers robust encryption protocols, a vast server network, and a user-friendly interface that provides an optimal blend of security, privacy, and speed.

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  • Veronica says:
    March 4, 2020 at 1:10 pm

    Any information about free VPN’s? Are free VPNs safe to use? I wanna get Atlasvpn, looks good on paper but it seems like there is little information on the internet.

    Reply
    • Abdul Rehman says:
      March 5, 2020 at 9:46 am

      Hey Veronica,

      You can try ProtonVPN which is free to use. It offers 3 server locations in the US, Japan, and the Netherlands and offers 8 servers in total. ProtonVPN also offers unlimited bandwidth which I guess you might prefer. I suggest reading the ProtonVPN review if you’re interested: https://www.vpnranks.com/reviews/protonvpn/

      Reply
      • Elijah says:
        March 6, 2020 at 12:56 pm

        I’ve been using Proton for the last 6 months to access social media at the office until it stopped working. Then I came across Atlas VPN which works surprisingly well and is way faster, so I’m sticking with it.

        Reply
        • Abdul Rehman says:
          March 7, 2020 at 3:48 pm

          Hey Elijah,

          I haven’t personally tested Atlas VPN, however, the fact that you’re using it over Proton, makes me really want to test it out for myself.

          Reply
  • Tris says:
    March 5, 2019 at 2:02 pm

    What VPN can I use in China for my Android device?

    Reply
    • Abdul Rehman says:
      March 6, 2019 at 7:07 am

      Hey Tris,

      Good question. If you don’t mind paying a bit extra, suggest you go for ExpressVPN. It’ll cost you $6.67 a month, however, you do get much better support and obviously much better speeds.

      Reply
  • Loha says:
    December 12, 2018 at 2:39 pm

    I’ve used Express but now I use NordVPN. I would say both of them are industry leaders. Don’t know about other VPNs.

    Reply
    • Abdul Rehman says:
      December 13, 2018 at 2:01 pm

      Yes, Loha. ExpressVPN and NordVPN are undoubtedly the industry leaders in the VPN industry and this is the reason why they are listed in our top 5 best Android VPN providers’ list. There are other VPN providers that are equally better in performance. These include PureVPN, PrivateVPN, and Ivacy.

      Reply
  • Geneo says:
    November 17, 2018 at 10:27 pm

    Received emails from att Uverse warning illegal use. I have Showbox and Kodi on tablet galaxy Does a VPN allow me to continue use show box and Kodi with no problem. New to VPN do not fully understand what it does. Am I safe with a VPN?

    Reply
    • Abdul Rehman says:
      November 18, 2018 at 2:01 pm

      Hello Geneo,

      A VPN completely encrypts your online activity, thus making your identity anonymous to others (i.e. the government and your Internet Service Provider). Not only that, but a VPN will also protect you against cybercriminals. If you use Kodi third-party add-ons or watch movies in Torrents, then you can get one of the 5 best VPN providers that are available in this guide. Remember, whenever you watch copyright material for free, you got to have a VPN or else you risk your online privacy.

      Reply
  • Independent Delhi Escorts says:
    November 11, 2018 at 11:25 am

    Thanks for the good writeup. It actually used to be a leisure account it. Glance complicated to far introduced agreeable from you! By the way, how could we be in contact?

    Reply
    • Abdul Rehman says:
      November 12, 2018 at 11:44 am

      Hello,

      Thanks for your feedback. We also mentioned this information in the 4th paragraph. But you’re right we did not mention it in the first paragraph.

      Reply
  • Curtis Jones says:
    October 11, 2018 at 10:34 am

    Well, I have experienced only a couple of VPN services for my mobile including MPN and Norton service, unfortunately, it wasn’t the smooth experience I thought initially. However, still looking for a VPN that works for a long time and more importantly with quick browsing. Looking forward to give NordVPN a try, hoping for a good experience this time!

    Reply
    • Abdul Rehman says:
      October 12, 2018 at 2:01 pm

      Hey Curtis,

      Yes, you should really go with NordVPN as it is the fastest VPN in the industry. Hoping you have a good experience using NordVPN.

      Reply
  • Hans Frans says:
    September 20, 2018 at 5:51 pm

    Ivacy app on the google play store doesn’t work with Android no matter what they tell you. What tech support solution? Download the app from someplace off the google play store. If you’re trying to be safe and secure you really should not go around installing apps from unknown sources. The whole thing is a little suspicious, I’ll be trying to get a refund.

    Reply
    • Abdul Rehman says:
      September 21, 2018 at 2:08 pm

      Hey Hans,

      Try installing it from their website. This worked for me. If it doesn’t, then let us know. We’ll figure it out to run it for you.

      Reply

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