VPNs aren't just for computers; your Android device needs one, too. We've tested the top contenders to help you choose the best Android VPN for your needs.
ByKim Key
Kim Key
Security Analyst
My Experience
As a PCMag security analyst, I report on security solutions such as password managers and parental control software, as well as privacy tools such as VPNs. Each week I send out the SecurityWatch newsletter filled with online security news and tips for keeping you and your family safe on the internet.
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UpdatedDecember 19, 2023
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NordVPN
Surfshark VPN
TunnelBear VPN
CyberGhost VPN
ExpressVPN
Private Internet Access VPN
IVPN
Mozilla VPN
Mullvad VPN
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- ExpressVPN — $6.67 Per Month 1-Year Plan + 3-Months Free + 1-Year Free Backblaze
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When you connect to a virtual private network or VPN, it routes your web traffic through an encrypted connection to a server operated by the VPN service. An observer will see all your web traffic (and the traffic of other VPN customers) flowing in and out of the VPN server, not your Android device.
When you're connected to a VPN, your real IP address is hidden. This means that all those advertising snoops or other scurrilous spies only see the IP address of the VPN server. This protects your privacy and makes it harder for anyone to discern your location because IP addresses are distributed geographically.
An Android VPN also prevents your ISP from seeing what you're up to—which is good because they're also keen to monetize your data. Read on for the top Android VPNs we've tested, followed by everything you need to know about choosing the right app.
Our Experts Have Tested 16 Products in the VPN Category in the Past Year
Since 1982, PCMag has tested and rated thousands of products to help you make better buying decisions.See how we test.
Table of Contents
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
Proton VPN
Best for Free VPN Coverage
Why We Picked It
ProtonVPN is packed with features at a very affordable price and has the best free subscription. Particularly appealing features include a Kill Switch and NetShield, which is Proton's ad and tracker blocker. We were pleased to see that the Android app does a good job translating the ProtonVPN experience to mobile.
Who It's For
VPN users on a budget. Give a VPN a try by downloading Proton VPN's free version and upgrading to the paid version after learning how to use it.
PROS
- The best free VPN subscription
- Numerous advanced privacy tools
- Strong customer privacy stance
- Slick, accessible client
- Excellent speed test scores
CONS
- Awkward ChromeOS implementation
SPECS
Name | Value |
---|---|
Free Version | |
500+ Servers | |
Simultaneous VPN Connections | 10 |
Supported Protocols on Android | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
GET IT NOW
Learn More
Proton VPN Review
NordVPN
Best for Experienced VPN Users
4.5 Outstanding
Why We Picked It
With a large server network and a remarkable collection of privacy tools, NordVPN is hard to beat. The Android app brings many of the service's best features and includes some unique to mobile.
Who It's For
Experienced VPN users will get the most out of a NordVN subscription. Features like the company's unique Meshnet offering are interesting but may be confusing to anyone unfamiliar with using a VPN.
PROS
- Multi-hop, split tunneling, and Tor connections
- Excellent design
- Traffic routing and file-sharing with Meshnet
- Built-in antivirus tools
CONS
- Expensive
- Lackluster malware-blocking results
- Limited utility of free Meshnet traffic routing
SPECS
Name | Value |
---|---|
Free Version | |
500+ Servers | |
Simultaneous VPN Connections | 6 |
Supported Protocols on Android | NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN |
GET IT NOW
Learn More
NordVPN Review
Surfshark VPN
Best for Privacy-Conscious Users
4.0 Excellent
Why We Picked It
Surfshark VPN has just about every privacy feature you'll need. Existing customers will be happy to see that the service's excellent design carries over to Android as well.
Who It's For
VPN users with privacy concerns will appreciate Surfshark's wealth of tools to keep their traffic habits under wraps. Surfshark also boasts the largest global server presence, so you have a lot of connection options.
PROS
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Large global server presence
- Multi-hop and split tunneling tools
- Intriguing potential in Surfshark Nexus
CONS
- High monthly price
- Some issues with IP rotator feature in testing
- Privacy policy needs clarification
SPECS
Name | Value |
---|---|
Free Version | |
500+ Servers | |
Simultaneous VPN Connections | Unlimited |
Supported Protocols on Android | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
GET IT NOW
Learn More
Surfshark VPN Review
TunnelBear VPN
Best for First-Time VPN Users
4.0 Excellent
Why We Picked It
While its friendly bear design makes the app approachable, TunnelBear VPN is a ferocious defender of privacy and is remarkably transparent. Its Android app allows you to use app-level split tunneling rather than the website-level split tunneling found in the iOS version of the application.
Who It's For
VPN beginners will appreciate TunnelBear's easy-to-use and whimsical Android app. The VPN also offers top-notch privacy features.
PROS
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Excellent privacy policies
- Annual independent audits
- Friendly, approachable design (with bears!)
CONS
- No multi-hop connections
- Split tunneling not available on all platforms
- Data limit on free subscription
SPECS
Name | Value |
---|---|
Free Version | |
500+ Servers | |
Simultaneous VPN Connections | Unlimited |
Supported Protocols on Android | OpenVPN |
GET IT NOW
Learn More
TunnelBear VPN Review
CyberGhost VPN
Best for Frequent Travelers
4.0 Excellent
Why We Picked It
CyberGhost has a big fleet of VPN servers, and a recent visual refresh makes it look modern. We especially like that the Android app retains some of the advanced features of CyberGhost's desktop apps.
Who It's For
All of those servers around the world, combined with CyberGhost's excellent speed test scores, are perfect for VPN users who love to travel. The company also offers various add-ons, including antivirus, for subscribers.
PROS
- Large, well-distributed server fleet
- Allows up to seven simultaneous connections
- Several add-ons, including antivirus
- Outstanding speed test scores
- Newly completed third-party audit
CONS
- Expensive
- Confusing privacy policies
SPECS
Name | Value |
---|---|
Free Version | |
500+ Servers | |
Simultaneous VPN Connections | 7 |
Supported Protocols on Android | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
GET IT NOW
Learn More
CyberGhost VPN Review
ExpressVPN
Best for Server-Location Diversity
4.0 Excellent
Why We Picked It
For the frequent flying Android owner, ExpressVPN is an enticing but expensive offer with its large collection of far-flung server locations.
Who It's For
VPN users looking for a lot of server location options. ExpressVPN also offers strong security features.
PROS
- Large, diversely distributed fleet of servers
- Strong privacy and security practices
- Split tunneling
- Stylish interface
CONS
- Expensive compared with VPNs with similar feature sets
- No multi-hop connections
SPECS
Name | Value |
---|---|
Free Version | |
500+ Servers | |
Simultaneous VPN Connections | 5 |
Supported Protocols on Android | Lightway |
GET IT NOW
Learn More
ExpressVPN Review
Private Internet Access VPN
Best for Mobile-Only VPN Users
4.0 Excellent
Why We Picked It
Private Internet Access offers several smart mobile VPN tools, including a snooze button. It supports WireGuard and OpenVPN on all platforms, including Android.
Who It's For
Mobile-only VPN users will appreciate the app's split tunneling and multi-hop features. Note that the product is more expensive than many competitors, however.
PROS
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Split tunneling and multi-hop
- Numerous server locations
- Completed third-party audit
CONS
- Expensive
- No free version
SPECS
Name | Value |
---|---|
Free Version | |
500+ Servers | |
Simultaneous VPN Connections | Unlimited |
Supported Protocols on Android |
GET IT NOW
Learn More
Private Internet Access VPN Review
IVPN
Best for Minimalist Design Fans
4.0 Excellent
Why We Picked It
IVPN uses an account system that protects your privacy from the start. We also like how crisp the service's minimalist design looks on Android. The app offers many helpful features, including app-level split tunneling, a kill switch, and a setting that will match your device's GPS location to the IVPN server location.
Who It's For
Minimalist VPN users will love IVPN's pared-down design choices. IVPN's affordable pricing and baked-in privacy further sweeten the deal.
PROS
- Flexible, affordable pricing
- Powerful multi-hop system
- Privacy is baked into its account system
- Strong stance on transparency
CONS
- Offers few server locations
- Multi-hop and account ID features might confuse some
SPECS
Name | Value |
---|---|
Free Version | |
500+ Servers | |
Simultaneous VPN Connections | 7 |
Supported Protocols on Android | WireGuard, OpenVPN |
Learn More
IVPN Review
Mozilla VPN
Best for Open Internet Supporters
4.0 Excellent
Why We Picked It
Mozilla VPN gives customers VPN protection while supporting nonprofit Mozilla simultaneously. It repackages Mullvad VPN's WireGuard-powered product, and it looks great, too.
Who It's For
If you're a Mozilla fan, this is the VPN for you. The product is simple, expensive, and a repackaged version of another company's product, so this VPN is primarily a way for people to support a nonprofit organization while receiving a service in return.
PROS
- Helps support nonprofit Mozilla
- Powered by privacy hawk Mullvad VPN
- Simple, classy design
- Multi-hop and split tunneling
CONS
- Few server locations
- Gathers some user information
- Expensive compared with Mullvad VPN
SPECS
Name | Value |
---|---|
Free Version | |
500+ Servers | |
Simultaneous VPN Connections | 5 |
Supported Protocols on Android | WireGuard |
Learn More
Mozilla VPN Review
Mullvad VPN
Best for Basic VPN Coverage
4.5 Outstanding
Why We Picked It
Mullvad VPN has an unusual, privacy-focused account system. We find the simplicity of its Android app a little more accessible than its desktop client. The app is light on features but performs capably and reliably while maintaining a VPN connection.
Who It's For
Mullvad VPN will appeal to people seeking basic VPN coverage without having to fork over sensitive personal information. Added bonuses are advanced features such as multi-hop and port forwarding.
PROS
- Affordable
- Requires no email or account information
- Radically transparent
- Multi-hop, split tunneling, and port forwarding
CONS
- Awkward desktop interface
- Servers in a small range of countries
- Pay-as-you-go system may confuse some customers
SPECS
Name | Value |
---|---|
Free Version | |
500+ Servers | |
Simultaneous VPN Connections | 5 |
Supported Protocols on Android | WireGuard, OpenVPN |
Learn More
Mullvad VPN Review
Buying Guide: The Best Android VPNs for 2024
What Does a VPN Do on Android?
Mobile devices move around with us, out of our safe home networks and into all sorts of other places. We've seen some remarkable research hinting at the privacy consequences of mobile devices: phony Wi-Fi devices that impersonate familiar networks can ensnare thousands of unsuspected devices and bogus base stations that can track phones (and perhaps intercept data). These are exotic concerns, but it's important to understand the worst-case scenarios to protect yourself.
How a VPN Works
Too much of the security industry relies on fear, uncertainty, and doubt among consumers. Although there are threats to your privacy and security lurking out there, no single tool will protect against all of them.
While some VPN services claim to protect you against malware and phishing sites, standalone antivirus software does a better job at this. One of the most dangerous threats people face is having an account taken over by an attacker. To protect against this, we strongly recommend using a password manager to create strong, unique passwords for every site and service you use. We also recommend enabling multi-factor authentication wherever it's available. While VPNs make it harder for you to be tracked online, advertisers and snoopers have various tools at their disposal, such as browser fingerprinting. We strongly recommend familiarizing yourself with the privacy settings in Android OS and in your browser of choice.
Remember that although VPNs improve your privacy online, they aren't actual anonymization services, and you can't use one to connect to hidden websites on the dark web. For both of those activities, you should use the Tor anonymization network. Tor client Android apps are on the Google Play store, so getting online with Tor is simple.
Finally, a VPN could potentially have as much insight into your online activity as your ISP, so it's essential to pick a VPN you can trust. When we review VPNs, we read through privacy policies and interview company representatives to understand their efforts to protect customers. If you don't trust a particular VPN, choose another. There are plenty.
Do Android VPNs Work With Netflix?
One everyday use of VPNs is location spoofing. When you send your web traffic through an encrypted tunnel to a remote server, the data appears to originate from the VPN server rather than your actual location. Journalists and activists have used this capability to get around restrictive internet controls imposed by various governments.
But for most people, location spoofing with a VPN is for streaming content restricted to specific geographic regions. That said,video streaming servicesare starting to fight back. We've noticed Hulu and Amazon Prime Video also frequently block access when they detect a VPN. Note that streaming companies are well within their rights to block VPN users. Just because you're paying to watch Netflix in the US doesn't mean you can view UK Netflix.
Some VPNs work with Netflix, but their effectiveness can change daily as the streaming companies and VPN services play a cat-and-mouse game of spoofing and blocking.
What Is the Best VPN for Android?
Although Android phones and tablets have radically different form factors than desktops and laptops, what we look for in a VPN remains the same.
The number and distribution of available VPN servers the service provides are important. Having lots of servers in lots of places means finding a server near where you live, and while traveling, it should be easier than with a service with only a few server locations. A surfeit of servers also means there are many options when spoofing your location.
The location of a VPN company is also important. Depending on where the company has its corporate headquarters, local laws may require it to retain user data. That's not good if maintaining your privacy is your primary concern.
What Is Two-Factor Authentication?
Another important feature Android owners should look for is split tunneling. This lets you designate which apps send their data through the VPN connection and which travel outside. That's useful for apps that frequently block VPN access or require a lot of bandwidth but no security, such as video or music streaming apps and mobile games.
Recommended by Our Editors
How to Set Up and Use a VPN
Why You Need a VPN, and How to Choose the Right One
Do I Really Need a VPN at Home?
The price and number of licenses per subscription are key factors to consider. VPN services range from free to incredibly expensive, but it's typical for a service to allow five simultaneous accounts per subscription. Some companies have started moving away from this restrictive model, which is good news for consumers. If you're paying more than $10 per month, be sure the VPN service offers features that justify the price. Our list of the cheapest VPNs is an excellent place to start, and our list of free VPNs gets the job done without requiring you to open your wallet.
Finally, it's worth considering the experience provided by a VPN app. You probably won't use it if it's ugly, confusing, or hard to use. A good VPN app doesn't need to be a work of art, but it should be reliable and easy to use. Look for apps with simple interfaces and those that provide most, if not all, of the functionality you'd find in the app's desktop version.
Which Free VPN Is Best for Android?
Proton VPN is the only service that does not have data restrictions, making it the only genuinely free VPN on our list. However, the free tier limits your server location to the Netherlands, Japan, and the United States, and you can only use the free VPN service on one device at a time.
Proton VPN's excellent reputation was built on the success of its sibling product, ProtonMail. ProtonVPN also has good privacy policies and regularly submits to third-party audits.
Max Eddy contributed to this article.
Compare SpecsThe Best Android VPNs for 2024
Our Picks | Proton VPNCheck Price | NordVPNCheck Price | Surfshark VPNCheck Price | TunnelBear VPNCheck Price | CyberGhost VPNCheck Price | ExpressVPNCheck Price | Private Internet Access VPNCheck Price | IVPN | Mozilla VPN | Mullvad VPN |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Editors'Rating | Editors' Choice 5.0Editor Review | Editors' Choice 4.5Editor Review | Editors' Choice 4.0Editor Review | Editors' Choice 4.0Editor Review | 4.0Editor Review | 4.0Editor Review | 4.0Editor Review | Editors' Choice 4.0Editor Review | 4.0Editor Review | Editors' Choice 4.5Editor Review |
Free Version | ||||||||||
500+ Servers | ||||||||||
Simultaneous VPN Connections | 10 | 6 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 | 5 | Unlimited | 7 | 5 | 5 |
Supported Protocols on Android | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | OpenVPN | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | Lightway | WireGuard, OpenVPN | WireGuard | WireGuard, OpenVPN | |
Where to Buy | PCMag Exclusive: $3.95 Per Month + 5-Months Free (60% Off 2-Year Plan) at ProtonVPN | $3.09 Per Month + 3-Months Free (Up to 69% Off 2-Year Plan) at NordVPN | $2.29 Per Month + 2-Months Free (79% Off 2-Year Plan) at Surfshark $3.99 Per Month ($47.88) for 1 Year Plan at Surfshark | $120 for Three-Year Plan at TunnelBear $120 for 3-Year Plan at TunnelBear | $2.19 Per Month + 2 Months Free (83% Off 2 Year Plan) at CyberGhost VPN $12.99 Per Month at CyberGhost VPN | $6.67 Per Month 1-Year Plan + 3-Months Free + 1-Year Free Backblaze at ExpressVPN | 83% Off 2-Year Plan + 4 Months Free at Private Internet Access $11.99 Per Month for Monthly Plan at Private Internet Access |
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As a PCMag security analyst, I report on security solutions such as password managers and parental control software, as well as privacy tools such as VPNs. Each week I send out the SecurityWatch newsletter filled with online security news and tips for keeping you and your family safe on the internet.
Before joining PCMag, I wrote about tech and video games for CNN, Fanbyte, Mashable, The New York Times, and TechRadar. I also worked at CNN International, where I did field producing and reporting on sports that are popular with worldwide audiences. Yes, I know the rules of cricket.
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