Best Android VPN of 2024

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A good Android VPN encrypts your internet traffic when you scroll on your phone, tablet, or smart TV. Moreover, it hides your real IP address, further enhancing online privacy and enabling you to access geo-specific content from anywhere. Best of all, an Android VPN connection can help you block annoying online ads and prevent third parties from logging your online activities for commercial gain.

While all major VPNs are compatible with Android devices, not all services are made equally. To help you make an informative decision, I’ve tested over 20 VPN providers in terms of security features, Android app functionality, security, speed, and price.

The 10 Best Android VPNs Tested By Our Experts

NordVPN – Best Android VPN Overall

Starting from $3.09/month
24-Month Plan + 3 Months Free
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Surfshark – Best Value For Money Android VPN

Starting from $2.19/month
24-Month Plan + 3 Months Free
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ExpressVPN – Premium Secure Android VPN

Starting from $6.67/month
12-Month Plan + 3 Months Free
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PureVPN – Best Android VPN for Fast Connections

Starting from $2.14/month
24-Month Plan + 4 Months Free
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Proton VPN – Best Freemium VPN for Android Devices

Starting from $3.59/month
Save $154 with 24-Month Plan
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IvacyVPN – Best Android VPN for Long-Term Use

Starting from $1.17/month
Save $500 On 60-Month Plan
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CyberGhost VPN – Best Android VPN for Streaming

Starting from $2.19/month
24-Month Plan + 4 Months Free
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PrivadoVPN – Best Free VPN for Android Users

Starting from $1.99/month
24-Month Plan + 3 Months Free
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VyprVPN – Best Android VPN for Geo-Restriction Bypassing

Starting from $3.00/month
Only $72.00 for 24-Months
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Private Internet Access – Best Android VPN for Travelers

Starting from $2.19/month
24-Month Plan + 4 Months Free
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NordVPN – Best Android VPN Overall

Starting Price $3.09/month
Free Version/Trial 7-day Android trial
Server Fleet 6,300+ servers in 111 countries
Max Devices 10
Play Store Rating 4.4/5.0
NordVPN
9.5
Review

Why We Picked It

NordVPN is one of the best Android VPN providers, known for its security and fast speeds. The provider comes with advanced security features, like double VPN, threat protection, and an ad blocker, to keep you safe online. Plus, it retains up to 90% of the original broadband speed, thus allowing you to browse and stream on your phone lag-free.

Features

  • Proprietary protocol – If you’re curious about its speed, the answer lies in its secure proprietary NordLynx tunnel. NordLynx is an upgraded iteration of the industry-leading WireGuard, blending speed with enhanced protection, surpassing its predecessor. This means that even if your traffic is encrypted with the AES-256 cipher, your connection remains fast and stable.
  • An extensive number of servers – NordVPN comes with a very generous server fleet of 6,300+ servers located in 111 countries. This helps Android users easily bypass geo-limitations and enjoy global content from anywhere.
  • Data privacy – NordVPN guarantees absolute privacy from internal and external threats. It adheres to a strict no-logs policy, meaning no logs of your online activities are stored. This has been confirmed by an independent audit firm (PwC) four times. Furthermore, the VPN employs RAM-only servers, which are wiped clean of any data after every reboot.
  • Security features – It includes essentials like a kill switch that cuts your internet if the VPN connection drops, split tunneling, which allows you to select which apps you’d like to exclude from the VPN connection, and double VPN, among others. Moreover, NordVPN provides the Threat Protection Lite suite, which helps prevent adware and online tracking.

Pricing

This VPN is reasonably priced, with the cheapest plan retailing for $3.09/month. A single subscription allows you to secure up to 10 devices simultaneously. However, for the best Android security, I suggest considering the middle Plus plan.

Android users can enjoy a free seven-day trial of the service if they download the app from the Google Play store. You may prolong the trial period using the 30-day money-back guarantee.

Who It's Best For

NordVPN is a fast and highly secure VPN that will be suitable for the majority of Android users. Regardless if you’re just browsing the internet, streaming your favorite show, or making online purchases, NordVPN will effectively secure your online traffic.

Pros

  • Fast connection speed
  • Uses RAM-only servers for complete privacy online
  • Intuitive Android app
  • Android users receive a 7-day free trial

Cons

  • No free plan
  • Android app doesn’t remove malware

 

Surfshark – Best Value For Money Android VPN

Starting Price $2.19/month
Free Version/Trial 7-day Android trial
Server Fleet 3,200+ servers in 100+ countries
Max Devices Unlimited
Play Store Rating 4.4/5.0
Surfshark
9.5
Review

Why We Picked It

Surfshark is one of the top VPNs for Android in 2024 because of its unmatchable price-to-quality ratio. For just $2.19/month, you get unlimited simultaneous connections, top-level data encryption, and online security measures. The Android app is also very user-friendly and easy to navigate, making it a splendid option even for first-time users.

Features

  • Secure protocols and encryption – Surfshark VPN employs industry-leading AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption, which makes your online traffic virtually unreadable to any snooping eyes. You can choose from several tunneling protocols, including IKEv2, OpenVPN, and WireGuard. The latter offers a powerful combination of lightning-fast speeds and robust protection.
  • Strict privacy rules – The provider has a strict, independently audited no-logs policy by the Delloite consulting firm, meaning it doesn’t store any of your data. Additionally, it uses RAM-only servers that automatically erase your data when the system reboots.
  • Numerous security features – Apart from essential features, like a functional kill switch to protect you from accidental IP leaks, a Bypasser that lets you choose which apps use the VPN connection, and the NoBorders feature for dodging heavy restrictions, Surfshark also includes a GPS Spoofing feature exclusively for Android devices. This ensures you completely spoof your actual location and can access different TikTok regions effortlessly.

Pricing

Surfshark’s prices start at $2.19/month, nearly three times cheaper than ExpressVPN. Even the more advanced Surfshark One plan with added antivirus functionality is just half the price, retailing for $2.69/month.

Moreover, as a smartphone user, you can claim a 7-day free trial and extend it with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Who It's Best For

Surfshark is an affordable VPN provider with unlimited connections, making the provider suitable for users who use numerous Android devices for browsing, streaming, or online shopping.

Pros

  • User-friendly app for Android devices
  • Affordable subscriptions
  • Next-gen security measures
  • GPS Spoofing feature for Android users

Cons

  • Doesn’t have a free plan
  • No Antivirus with the entry plan

 

ExpressVPN – Premium Secure Android VPN

Starting Price $6.67/month
Free Version/Trial 7-day Android trial
Server Fleet 3,000+ servers in 105+ countries
Max Devices 8
Play Store Rating 3.8/5.0
ExpressVPN
9.2
Review

Why We Picked It

ExpressVPN is considered to be one of the most secure VPNs for Android phones. Not only does it encrypt your online traffic, but it also blocks trackers, infected websites, ads, and adult sites.

Features

  • Propriety protocol and secure encryption – Like NordVPN, ExpressVPN provides its proprietary Lightway protocol, which combines fast speeds with strong protection. Also, depending on the chosen tunneling protocol, ExpressVPN utilizes two top-notch encryption ciphers: AES-256 and ChaCha20.
  • Strict no-log policy and secure servers – ExpressVPN adheres to a strict no-log policy approved by the court. But what sets it apart is the impressive TrustedServer technology. This ensures that your data is not stored, as the servers run exclusively on RAM.
  • Ease of use – The Android app offers a very simplistic interface, where you’ll be able to connect to a server with only one click.
  • Basic security features – The provider comes with a kill switch that prevents IP leaks, obfuscated servers that allow you to use an encrypted connection without revealing the VPN activity to your ISP, and DDoS protection. Moreover, ExpressVPN has recently stepped up its game by introducing a password manager to smartphones and browsers.

Pricing

Unfortunately, a state-of-the-art security suite comes for a price. ExpressVPN’s subscriptions start from $6.67/month, making it nearly twice as expensive as NordVPN. Yet, you can try out the service first, using a 7-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Who It's Best For

ExpressVPN is a secure VPN provider that is a great choice for dedicated Android users looking for a user-friendly tool to enhance their online security when browsing on their phones.

Pros

  • Features for blocking ads, trackers, and malicious websites
  • Proprietary Lightway tunneling protocol
  • Minimalistic application
  • 30-day money-back guarantee

Cons

  • Pricier than most VPNs on the market
  • Streaming may be troublesome

 

PureVPN – Best Android VPN for Fast Connections

Starting Price $2.14/month
Free Version/Trial 7-day trial for $0.99
Server Fleet 6,000+ servers in 65+ countries
Max Devices 10
Play Store Rating 3.5/5.0
PureVPN
9.2
Review

Why We Picked It

PureVPN is a highly privacy-oriented Android VPN with a rarely seen Always-On Audit approach. With it, you may never worry whether your Android’s data is being collected or breached, as PureVPN can be audited at any time without prior notice.

Features

  • Safe protocols and military-grade encryption – PureVPN employs AES-256 encryption, a standard trusted by governmental institutions for robust protection and data encryption. It offers various secure protocols, including WireGuard and OpenVPN. However, WireGuard may not be ideal for some users, as it lacks support for split tunneling and the dedicated IP feature.
  • Privacy-oriented approach – The VPN is based in the British Virgin Islands, a privacy-friendly country where companies are not obligated to collect and store their user data. However, this provider has had past incidents of leaking user data to the FBI. Since then, they have implemented an Always-On Audit. Moreover, PureVPN adheres to a strict no-logs policy, independently audited by Altius IT and KPM.
  • Base security features – The provider offers all default features, including a functional kill switch that will keep your IP address secure even if the VPN connection fails. Moreover, the obfuscation feature is useful when you want a secure connection without revealing that you are using a VPN. Additionally, you can add a password manager to your subscription for a small additional fee each month.

Pricing

With a single PureVPN subscription, you can secure up to 10 devices simultaneously, safeguarding your Android mobile and other devices, like laptops or tablets. Prices begin at $2.14/month, and you can test the service for only $0.99 for seven days or take advantage of the 31-day money-back guarantee.

Note that the renewal price will be higher than the initial discounted rate, so if you wish to enjoy a lower price for longer, consider the five-year subscription.

Who It's Best For

PureVPN offers a comprehensive security package, allowing users to effectively encrypt their online activities and hide their data from any potential prying eyes. It will best suit privacy-conscious users looking for a simplistic VPN for daily browsing.

Pros

  • Always-On Audit VPN provider
  • Offers split tunneling for Android devices
  • Cheap subscription
  • Ten simultaneous connections

Cons

  • Some features aren’t compatible with WireGuard
  • Servers in 65 countries only

 

Proton VPN – Best Freemium VPN for Android Devices

A logo of Proton VPN

Starting Price $3.59/month
Free Version/Trial Free plan with unlimited bandwidth
Server Fleet 5,100+ servers in 90+ countries
Max Devices 10
Play Store Rating 4.6/5.0
ProtonVPN
8.5
Review

Why We Picked It

Proton VPN is one of a few premium VPNs for Android that offer a reliable free VPN app with unlimited monthly data. However, a free plan isn’t the only thing to boast about, as this VPN also offers open-source apps and employs top-notch security measures for complete data protection.

Features

  • Independently audited no-log policy – Proton VPN has undergone an independent security audit by Securitum, confirming the absence of significant security or privacy vulnerabilities. This enhances the credibility of their no-logs policy for both paid and free users. Plus, as an open-source provider, Proton VPN gives its users access to investigate the VPN’s code and see what’s happening behind the sleek user interface.
  • Safe encryption and fast protocols – Depending on your tunneling protocol, the provider uses two encryption ciphers. When utilizing the WireGuard tunneling protocol, known for its robust security and fast speeds, your traffic is safeguarded with the ChaCha20 cipher. For other protocols, VPN employs the AES-256 cipher.
  • Essential security features – Although quite similar to PureVPN, Proton VPN offers a slightly larger variety of features. Aside from base features, like kill switch or split tunneling, you receive the VPN Accelerator, which boosts your connection speed. The Alternate routing feature can help you dodge the censorship and unblock desired content. Plus, a free password manager is available to all Proton VPN users.

Pricing

Proton VPN’s strength is its free plan; you can easily download a VPN free of charge. However, if you want more advanced features, consider its paid plan that retails for $3.59/month.

While slightly more expensive than NordVPN or Surfshark, you can still try it out risk-free using a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Who It's Best For

Proton VPN is a performance-oriented VPN with numerous speed-enhancing features for your Android. Plus, it comes with one of the best forever-free VPN options, making it suitable for users who need a VPN for casual scrolling or simply wish to get a fee for the tool.

Pros

  • Fantastic free plan with unlimited data
  • Over 5,100 servers worldwide
  • Advanced security measures
  • Free password manager

Cons

  • Premium pricing
  • Customer support can be slow

 

IvacyVPN – Best Android VPN for Long-Term Use

Starting Price $1.17/month
Free Version/Trial 7-day trial for $0.99
Server Fleet 5,700+ servers in 70+ countries
Max Devices 10
Play Store Rating 3.0/5.0
IvacyVPN
8.7
Review

Why We Picked It

While less widely recognized than other options, Ivacy VPN offers excellent value for those seeking affordability. Starting at just $1.17/month, it’s the most budget-friendly VPN for an Android phone available. Not to mention the features suite you receive for such a price.

Features

  • Strong online data encryption – Ivacy utilizes the AES-256 encryption cipher, recognized as an unbreakable security standard. Furthermore, you can choose from market-leading tunneling protocols, including the stable OpenVPN protocol and the fastest WireGuard tunnel.
  • User-friendly privacy policies – While the VPN claims to have a strict no-logging policy, it hasn’t been independently audited to confirm this yet. However, the company says it does not collect sensitive information, including activity data, connection logs, or original IP addresses. As Ivacy VPN also offers a free plan, it is recommended to review the privacy policy before using the service to ensure the security of your data.
  • Generic security package – Ivacy VPN includes a functional kill switch and split tunneling. In addition to the previous two, you receive a dedicated IP, DDoS protection essential for games, and IP leak protection, among other things.

Pricing

The VPN is available for free or for a fee. The free plan has noticeable limitations, such as access to servers only in the Netherlands and protection for just one device.

Meanwhile, the premium plan is available for as little as $1.17/month. It gives you access to all features and up to 10 parallel connections, making it a bang for your buck.

Who It's Best For

IvacyVPN is the cheapest long-term VPN with a simplistic Android app interface. The provider will best suit users looking for an affordable long-term service.

Pros

  • Paid plan for only $1.17/month
  • Forever-free plan
  • Has optimized servers for streaming

Cons

  • Not audited no-logs policy
  • Free plan doesn’t work for streaming
  • Speeds may be inconsistent

 

CyberGhost – Best Android VPN for Streaming

Starting Price $2.03/month
Free Version/Trial 3-day trial for Android
Server Fleet 11,700+ servers in 100+ countries
Max Devices 7
Play Store Rating 4.0/5.0
CyberGhostVPN
8.7
Review

Why We Picked It

With a blend of many servers worldwide, specialized streaming servers, and fast speeds, CyberGhost is the best streaming VPN for Android smart devices. With it, I’ve effortlessly unblocked platforms like Netflix, Disney+, Max, and Hulu.

Features

  • Fast and safe tunneling – Implementing the WireGuard tunnel ensures you can enjoy fast and secure speeds even when the network connection is encrypted with the AES-256 cipher.
  • Optimized servers – Apart from servers optimized for streaming, you also receive servers that enhance your gaming and torrenting experience.
  • User-privacy-oriented approach – In 2022, CyberGhost underwent an independent audit by Deloitte, proving it doesn’t collect your activity logs or other sensitive data. Even though this VPN doesn’t use RAM-only servers, its NoSpy servers, fully managed by CyberGhost, mean there’s no third-party interference. Plus, it’s located in Romania, which doesn’t belong to the Fourteen Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance.
  • Additional features – The Smart Rules feature allows multiple shortcuts, such as automatic connection to a particular country. Additionally, you can use CyberGhost’s ad blocker to prevent adware or just unwanted ads.

Pricing

Lastly, CyberGhost is a budget-friendly VPN. Prices start from as low as $2.19/month, and a single subscription allows you to protect up to 7 devices at once. You can also use a 3-day free trial on your Android and a 45-day money-back guarantee on any device.

Who It's Best For

CyberGhost comes with one of the largest server fleets in the market, making the provider perfect for streaming content on popular platforms like Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, Disney+, and more. For improved speed, you can also opt for dedicated streaming servers.

Pros

  • Specialized servers for streaming, gaming, and torrenting
  • NoSpy servers for complete anonymity
  • Extended 45-day money-back guarantee

Cons

  • No free plan
  • Doesn’t work consistently in China
  • Poor reputation of a parent company

 

PrivadoVPN – Best Free VPN for Android Users

Starting Price $1.99/month
Free Version/Trial Free plan with 10Gb per month
Server Fleet 300+ servers in 65 countries
Max Devices 10
Play Store Rating 3.8/5.0
PrivadoVPN
8.6
Review

Why We Picked It

If you’re looking to get the first VPN, you may consider PrivadoVPN. It’s an excellent choice for users without prior experience. The VPN application is easy to use, has a lovely design, and includes essential cybersecurity features.

Features

  • Top-notch security and encryption – Like Surfshark or NordVPN, this VPN employs an AES-256 encryption cipher, making it virtually impossible to decrypt your online activities. Even though this cipher may be pretty heavy on network speed, the WireGuard tunnel ensures that you receive a fast, stable, and, most importantly, secure connection.
  • Privacy-friendly jurisdiction and no-log policy – Unfortunately, PrivadoVPN hasn’t gone through an independent audit yet. Nonetheless, it adheres to a no-logs policy and is also based in Switzerland, which doesn’t belong to the Five Eyes Alliance. The country’s laws don’t require data retention for VPN providers.
  • Parental controls – This enables you to manage your children’s access to social media platforms.
  • Generic security features – In addition to a kill switch, split tunneling, and leak protection, PrivadoVPN also includes an ad blocker to prevent malicious advertisements and enhance your browsing speed.

Pricing

Unlike many other VPN providers, PrivadoVPN offers a forever-free plan that gives you 10GB of monthly data. If you opt for a premium plan, the pricing starts at just $1.99/month, and you can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously. If you want to try out the premium service, there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee available.

Who It's Best For

PrivadoVPN is a pretty simplistic VPN with a smaller server selection. However, its cheap pricing and parental control features make it very suitable for both parents and young first-time users.

Pros

  • User-friendly Android application
  • Includes Parental Controls feature
  • Available for free

Cons

  • Small server fleet
  • Not too many features
  • Can be expensive

 

VyprVPN – Best Android VPN for Geo-Restriction Bypassing

Starting Price $3.00/month
Free Version/Trial 3-day trial for Android
Server Fleet 700+ servers in 60+ countries
Max Devices 10
Play Store Rating 4.3/5.0
VyprVPN
7.5
Review

Why We Picked It

VyprVPN is the best Android VPN for users in China, Russia, Latin America, and other countries that impose rigid network restrictions. Thanks to the Chameleon 2.0 protocol, you can use a VPN to the full extent, even in environments where governmental regulations restrict VPN usage.

Features

  • Market-leading data encryption – In addition to Chameleon 2.0, VyprVPN offers the industry-leading WireGuard tunneling protocol, guaranteeing rapid and secure connection speeds. The use of AES-256 encryption ensures that your online data is nearly impossible to decipher, mirroring the practices of other top VPN providers.
  • VyprDNS technology – Unlike other VPNs that use RAM servers, this provider utilizes VyprDNS technology. This means that when you connect to a server, all your DNS requests go through VyprVPN, offering you more anonymity than regular public DNS. Additionally, VyprVPN follows a no-logs policy that has been independently audited.
  • Public Wi-Fi Protection – This makes VyprVPN excellent for browsing in highly censored regions, as you can continue using public network connections without risking your privacy. There’s also the Malicious Site Block feature, which helps you prevent malware from infecting your device and either ruining it or leaking personal info.

Pricing

VyprVPN isn’t the cheapest VPN, costing at least $3.00/month. However, it gives you up to 10 simultaneous connections and a 30-day money-back guarantee to test the service before committing to it.

Who It's Best For

VyprVPN is a very good choice for people residing in regions with high internet censorship. The provider offers an in-house VyprDNS technology as well as prevents malware from infecting your Android.

Pros

  • Works in China, Russia, Iran, and other highly restricted countries
  • Includes feature for preventing malware
  • Has the Public Wi-Fi Protection feature

Cons

  • Smaller server fleet than in most VPNs
  • Could be faster
  • No free trial or free version

 

Private Internet Access – Best Android VPN for Travelers

A logo of Private Internet Access VPN

Starting Price $2.19/month
Free Version/Trial 7-day trial for Android
Server Fleet 35,000+ servers in 91 countries
Max Devices Unlimited
Play Store Rating 4.3/5.0
Private Internet Access
8.7
Review

Why We Picked It

Private Internet Access, owned by the same parent company as ExpressVPN and CyberGhost, has more servers than both, making it the best VPN app for Android users traveling the world. With it, you can connect to over 35,000 servers in 91 countries.

Features

  • Customizable encryption – You can choose between two ciphers: AES-128 or AES-256. While both provide robust protection, I suggest using the latter for the best security results. Additionally, PIA uses the WireGuard tunnel to ensure faster connection speeds.
  • RAM-only servers – Like several other VPNs, PIA relies on RAM-only servers to ensure your data is not stored. This commitment to privacy is explicitly outlined in the provider’s privacy policy, affirming its status as an audited no-logs VPN. However, it’s important to note that the company is based in Canada which is a member of the Five Eyes Alliance.
  • Common security features – In addition to a kill switch or split tunneling, PIA offers some unique features. For instance, it provides a private browser called InBrowser that automatically deletes browsing history and cookies after each use. The VPN also has an Identity Guard feature that monitors for any data leaks associated with your email address.

Pricing

Finally, PIA is a very affordable VPN, as its prices start from as little as $2.19/month, and you can also connect unlimited devices simultaneously.

To try out the service, you can use a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Who It's Best For

PIA offers one of the largest server networks in the market, making it a great option for frequent travelers or users looking to stream geo-restricted content from anywhere. Plus, a nifty Identity Guard feature will cater to those concerned about their online identity security.

Pros

  • Over 35,000 servers worldwide
  • Unlimited simultaneous connections
  • Customizable encryption

Cons

  • Can be slow
  • Based in a 5-Eyes country
  • Doesn’t have a free trial or free plan

 

Methodology

How We Review and Test VPN Services

20 VPNS TESTED

25 DATA POINTS MEASURED

300+ HOURS TESTING

500+ USER REVIEWS READ

To provide our readers with accurate and well informed recommendations, we tested 20 leading VPN services to find the best in the market. Our methodology consists of the following criteria:

  • Security Features: We made sure that the provider uses standard security features and a secure tunneling protocol.
  • Privacy Policies: We looked for VPNs that come with a no-logs policy, and verify the extend to which user privacy is upheld.
  • Speed: We run speed tests three times a day and draw an average of the result to see how much of the original broadband speed is retained.
  • Compatibility: We ensure the VPN provider offers multiple simultaneous connections and is compatible with the most popular operating systems.
  • Geo-unblocking: We test whether the VPN service can unlock different libraries (content available in different countries) on the most popular streaming platforms.
  • Customer Experience: When researching products and services, we read real user experiences and test out their customer support channels ourselves.
  • Price and Value for Money: We set out to recommend reasonably priced products that offer value for money.

Does Android Have a Built-In VPN?

Yes, Android OS does have a built-in VPN that runs on PPTP, L2TP/IPSec, and IPSec tunneling protocols. However, even though Android has a feature to support a VPN connection, you will still need to subscribe and install a third-party VPN for Android.

Unlike dedicated apps, an Android built-in VPN client is primarily meant to help you connect to foreign networks, such as at school or work. This means that you won’t be able to use it to bypass geo-restrictions or block infected websites.

To successfully spoof your IP and unlock foreign content, you’ll have to choose a reliable Android VPN app, such as NordVPN, and connect to its virtual private network.

Why Should I Use Android VPN?

Using a VPN on your Android device has many benefits, the main ones being increased online security and privacy when browsing the web.

VPNs encrypt your device’s internet connection, making it difficult for your Internet Service Provider, trackers, and malicious third parties to spy on your internet activity. They also help keep your private data and personal information secure from potential IP leaks or cyber criminals while allowing you to access geo restricted content, such as apps, websites, and services.

This means you can consume content from different countries no matter where you are and access a broader range of streaming services and websites. Connecting to a specific VPN server location can also improve your internet speed, particularly if you’re experiencing network congestion in your local area.

Most VPNs offer very easy-to-use apps for Android. Every VPN we’ve looked at offers an app that can be downloaded from the Google Play Store, and many offer a free trial and generous money-back guarantees so you can test out most VPNs risk-free.

Are Android VPNs Safe?

The safety of Android VPN significantly depends on the VPN provider you choose.

Generally, reputable VPNs like NordVPN offer a high level of security by encrypting your internet connection, which helps protect your personal information from hackers and potential snoopers.

However, not all Android VPNs are created equal. Some free or sketchy VPN services might log your browsing data, have weak security protocols, or, in worst-case scenarios, contain malware or sell your data to third parties.

Therefore, it’s crucial to research and choose a VPN provider based in a privacy-friendly country that offers strong encryption protocols and transparent privacy policies. Always read product reviews and do a quick internet search to check the provider’s reputation before committing.

In essence, Android VPNs are safe, but only if you go for a reliable and secure VPN provider.

What Devices Can I Use an Android VPN On?

An Android VPN can be used on any device running the Android 4.0 and up operating system. This includes smartphones like the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, Google Pixel 8, and OnePlus 12, as well as tablets such as the Amazon Fire HD 10, Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+, Google Pixel Tablet, and even Android TVs.

However, it’s important to note that the majority of VPNs that work with Android devices are not necessarily dedicated to one operating system only. This means you can also use an Android VPN on iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, and other devices.

Can I Use the VPN for Android on Other Operating Systems?

Yes, you can definitely use Android VPN on a different operating system, like iOS, Windows, Linux, or macOS.

Each provider I’ve reviewed in this article is compatible with numerous operating systems and devices, such as Smart TVs, routers, and gaming consoles.

The only difference is that some VPN services have OS-specific features that aren’t available on other devices. For example, Surfshark includes its GPS Spoofing future for Android devices, while CyberGhost provides optimized gaming, streaming, and torrenting servers for Windows users only.

See our guides to the best VPNs for Windows and the best Mac VPNs for additional recommendations.

How to Choose the Best VPN for Android

To make an informed decision, consider these factors when choosing a reliable Android VPN for yourself:

  • Security Features – VPN security features are among the most important criteria when choosing a reliable Android VPN. Look for 256-bit encryption, fast and secure VPN protocol options, a kill switch, and a strong no-log policy.
  • Additional Features – Extra features like ad blockers, split tunneling, port forwarding, and private DNS can all make a big difference to your experience. NordVPN also provides one of the best password managers for Android on the market.
  • Compatibility – Consider whether compatibility with other operating systems, like Windows, Mac, Linux, or iOS, will make the VPN more useful for you. Most Android VPNs are also compatible with modern Chromebooks, as seen in our guide to the best VPNs for Chromebook.
  • Performance – Ensure your chosen VPN is fast and will not temper your Android device’s speed. Aim for at least 80% of the original broadband speed retention.
  • Server Fleet – If the provider offers VPN servers in a wide range of locations, users will have more options regarding which servers to connect to. This is particularly important for streaming content, bypassing government censorship, and visiting certain websites.
  • Customer Support – A reputable VPN provider should offer good customer support options. Note whether the provider offers 24/7 customer support via live chat, phone, or email. Also, check whether there is an extensive knowledge base where you can find answers to the most common questions.
  • Value for Money – The best VPN for Android should not break your bank, so set a budget and compare a few VPNs to find the best value-for-money package.

How to Use A VPN on Android

Are you looking for ways to use a VPN on an Android device? Worry not; the process is very easy, and we’ve broken it down into a step-by-step guide to help you set up and use a VPN on your Android easily.

How to Setup a VPN on Android

  1. Step 1 – Choose a reliable Android VPN

    Our top suggestion is NordVPN. Just visit the provider’s page and choose a plan that best suits your needs.
  2. Step 2 – Purchase your subscription and set up an account

    Once you’ve purchased the VPN, set up your account.
  3. Step 3 – Head to Google Play Store

    Head to Google Play Store and download the Android app
    Step 3 – Head to Google Play Store
  4. Step 4 – Login to your VPN account

    Once you’ve downloaded the VPN app, simply log in to your account.
    Step 4 – Login to your VPN account
  5. Step 5 – Connect to a VPN server

    Choose a server location of your liking and tap to connect.
    Step 5 – Connect to a VPN server

 

Best Free Android VPN vs. Paid Subscription

Proton VPN is the best free VPN for Android smart devices. With it, users receive unlimited monthly data and no connection speed caps. You can connect to servers in three countries, and the provider adheres to a strict no-logs policy, making this VPN a fantastic choice for free use.

While Proton VPN is a trustworthy free Android VPN service, it is important to note that there are other free VPN providers available that you should be cautious of. Some countries have restrictions on VPN usage, so certain VPN providers may enter into agreements to collect and sell user data to operate in a particular region.

Moreover, free VPN services often have numerous limitations, such as monthly data and speed caps, small server fleets, and outdated security features. Thus, it is better to opt for an affordable premium Android VPN, like NordVPN or Surfshark.

Conclusion

All in all, a reliable VPN for Android should not only encrypt your data and block annoying online ads but also help you access your favorite content no matter where you are.

Based on my examination and hands-on testing, NordVPN proved to be the best Android VPN due to reasonable pricing, fast and secure internet connections, and a large variety of global server locations.

NordVPN
9.5
Review

FAQs

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Jacob O'Shea
Tech Writer
Jacob O'Shea
Tech Writer

Jacob is an experienced Content Writer with experience in SaaS and tech solutions. He's done reviews on software for sites like Business2Community, TechReport, and Techopedia, sharing his expansive knowledge on all things tech-related - from VPNs to password managers and accounting software.

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