With the increasing number of internet-based activities in recent years, online privacy and security have become major concerns for iPhone users around the globe. So, to avoid the risk of data breaches or cyberattacks, using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) on your iPhone or iPad is essential. Additionally, VPNs can also help access geo-restricted content.
With so many VPN apps available for iOS, finding the right one can be difficult. So, I have done the research for you and curated a list of the best VPNs for iPhones and iPad. Take a look at the features, weigh the pros and cons, and pick one that meets your requirements.
1. Surfshark VPN – Editor’s Choice
Surfshark is one of the most affordable VPNs for iPhones. While many might think the affordability tag must affect its performance, the truth is that you won’t see any compromise in terms of performance and security features. That’s right! With 3200+ servers in 100 unique locations, you will enjoy blazing-fast speed across the globe.
Like me, if you use a VPN on multiple devices, Surfshark is definitely worth a try. It allows you to connect unlimited devices simultaneously under a single subscription. Further, you can browse the internet in peace because it follows a strict no-log policy, so the app won’t monitor, track, or store anything you do online.
Most importantly, it offers a super affordable two-year plan, using which you can access fast VPN servers on unlimited devices and get advanced security features like real-time email breach alerts and webcam protection.
Pros:
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Strong security features
- Fast speeds
- Effective at unblocking geo-restricted content.
Cons:
- Occasional connection drops
Surfshark’s pricing for its two-year plans:
- Surfshark Starter for $2.29 per month + 2 Months free
- Surfshark One for $2.89 per month + 2 Months free
- Surfshark One+ for $4.49 per month + 2 Months free
2. ExpressVPN – Most trusted VPN for iPhone
When it comes to choosing a VPN app for your iPhone, you simply can’t go wrong with ExpressVPN – thanks to its unparalleled speed and robust security features. With its servers across 105 countries, ExpressVPN ensures seamless access to geo-restricted content, making it ideal for those who stream a lot of OTT content.
Moreover, its cutting-edge UDP, TCP, and IPsec encryption protocol guarantees that your online activity remains private and secure, shielding you from spyware and potential fraud.
ExpressVPN also has a no-log policy. It keeps no activity or connection logs, but it does collect a bare minimum of data, such as the amount of data transferred, connection dates, and VPN location, to keep your VPN connection running and improve our service. To learn more, you can check out our detailed review of Express VPN.
Pros:
- Excellent performance and speeds
- User-friendly interface
- Strong security features
- Reliable for streaming content
Cons:
- Relatively expensive
- Limited to 8 simultaneous connections
Price: 7-day free trial (Subscriptions start at $12.99)
3. Proton VPN – Most secure VPN service for iOS
Coming from the house of Protom Mail, ProtonVPN focuses on user privacy with a strict no-log policy under Swiss-based jurisdiction. While it does have a paid subscription plan, Proton Mail also offers a free version of its VPN service, and by free, I mean completely free with zero catches.
With its 4070 servers spanning 85 countries, it is one of the world’s fastest and most extensive networks, offering a truly global experience. When it comes to user security, Proton VPN uses proven AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption protocols, along with cryptographically secure protocols like WireGurad and OpenVPN.
Pros:
- Strong focus on privacy and security
- Offers a free plan with limited features
- No logging policy
Cons:
- Speeds may be slower compared to some other VPNs
- Limited server selection on free plan
Price: Free (In-app purchases start at $79.99)
4. IPVanish – Connect unlimited devices
IPVanish is known for its customizable security features, fast connection speed, and over 2400 extensive server networks with unlimited bandwidth. This extensive server infrastructure lets you easily bypass geo-restrictions and stream content from many countries.
Another exciting feature of IPVanish is that you don’t need to compromise the protection of one device for others as there are no connection caps, thus securing all your devices simultaneously.
Along with the robust encryption protocols, including AES-256 encryption to secure your data from potential eavesdroppers, IPVanish VPN operates under a strict no-log policy.
Pros:
- Configurable apps
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Secure access to media
Cons:
- Based in the US (potential privacy concerns),
- Has had past controversies over logging policies.
Price: Free trial (Subscriptions start at $4.99)
5. NordVPN – Advanced security with specialized servers
There can not be a best VPN list without Nord VPN in it. It allows you to connect to six different devices simultaneously and enjoy secure and private access to the internet on both private and public networks.
Unlike other VPNs, NordVPN offers unique double VPN servers, which encrypt data not once but twice, adding an extra layer of encryption.
So whether you are concerned about safeguarding your online identity, accessing geo-restricted content, or secure browsing on public Wi-Fi networks, NordVPN has every tool and feature in its arsenal to effectively meet your needs.
Pros:
- Vast server network
- Strong security and privacy features
- Reliable for streaming and torrenting
Cons:
- Speeds can vary depending on server location
- Occasional connectivity issues on some servers
Price: Subscriptions start at $12.99
6. VPN by Private Internet Access (PIA) – Strong privacy commitment
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a renowned VPN service that prioritizes user privacy, security, and anonymity over anything else. All this is done with strong encryption protocols such as AES-256 and a strict no-log policy, ensuring maximum security and privacy protection.
It also comes with the Kill Switch capability, which automatically shuts down your internet connection in case the VPN connection suddenly drops, preventing data leaks or real IP address exposure.
If you are unsatisfied with or have any issues with the service, you can also take advantage of its 24/7 chat support and 30-day money-back guarantee.
Pros:
- Affordable pricing
- Strong privacy features, including no-logs policy,
- Supports P2P and torrenting
- Dedicated IP
Cons:
- User interface may not be as intuitive for beginners
- Occasional performance fluctuations
Price: Subscriptions start at $6.99
7. CyberGhost – Complete privacy across Apple devices
The CyberGhost VPN offers the most user-friendly interface with one-click connectivity for all online privacy concerns. With its dedicated servers spanning over 100 countries, 126 locations, and 21 dedicated IP locations, you can enjoy uninterrupted streaming from apps such as Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, Crunchyroll, and more.
Moreover, you can connect up to seven different devices in your household with a single subscription and easily hop from one device to another. It also provides specialized servers for enhanced privacy and security, such as NoSpy servers in Romania.
Pros:
- User-friendly interface
- Large server network
- Strong security features
- Specialized servers for streaming and torrenting
Cons:
- Inconsistent speeds on some servers
- Occasional difficulty in connecting to certain streaming platforms
Price: Plans start at $6.99
8. Mullvad VPN – Most privacy-centered VPN service
In my experience so far, I have found Mullvad VPN to be the best when it comes to user privacy. This is because, unlike other VPN apps, you don’t need to provide any personal information while creating an account. Instead, the app generates a unique account number for every user, eliminating the need for an email address or other personal information.
In addition, you get all the other VPN features, such as advanced encryption protocols, a no-log policy, the WireGurad protocol, and more. Moreover, it also accepts anonymous payment methods such as cash, Bitcoin, and other cryptocurrencies.
Pros:
- Focus on privacy and anonymity
- No-logs policy
- Accepts anonymous payments
- Strong encryption
Cons:
- Limited server locations
- Not as effective as others at unblocking geo-restricted content
Price: 30-day subscription at $4.99
9. Windscribe – Best free VPN for iPhone
Windscribe offers the most intuitive and user-friendly interface, making it easier for users with little to no technical competence to access VPN services. The high rating on the App Store is proof of this.
Also, unlike any other top VPN apps for iPhone on this list, all Windscribe VPN services are free up to a generous 10GB monthly allowance, allowing you to test the service to its full extent before committing to a paid subscription.
In addition, Windscribe also offers a multi-hop feature, allowing you to route your internet traffic through multiple VPN servers.
Pros:
- Generous free plan with 10GB/month data
- Strong security features
- Supports unlimited connections
Cons:
- Free plan has limited server access and slower speeds
Price: Free (Subscriptions start at $3.99 per month)
10. Atlas VPN – Feature-rich VPN for iPhone
Atlas VPN offers a free plan with unlimited data usage, making it ideal for users who want to protect their online privacy and security but don’t want to burn a hole in their pocket. However, the free plan is limited to several servers at select locations.
Besides the free plan, this VPN boasts a host of security features, such as SafeSwap servers, malware blocking, WireGurad protocol, split tunneling, multi-hopping, and privacy protection features like data breach monitoring and no-log policy.
With its 1000+ VPN servers spanning 45+ countries, you can switch between servers and locations and access content and services from different regions from the comfort of your couch.
Pros:
- Free plan available
- User-friendly interface
- Multi-hop servers
- Passwordless login
Cons:
- Limited server network
- May not be as effective at unblocking certain content
Price: Free (Offers in-app purchases)
No matter which VPN you choose, the connection speed will decline slightly due to the encryption process, which will be slightly burdensome on your iPhone’s battery and processor.
Unfortunately, there isn’t a built-in VPN on iPhones.
Enjoy safe and secure browsing
These were some of the best VPNs for iPhones and iPads. Always consider factors such as connection speed, server locations, privacy policies, and security protocols, and prioritize only the one with a proven track record of reliability and make a sound decision.
Which VPN are you going to pick? Do let me know in the comments below.
