Your smartphone is more than just a communication tool—it’s a vault of personal information. From banking apps and emails to photos and real-time location data, mobile devices carry an immense amount of sensitive data. And while we often take precautions on laptops or desktops, mobile phones are just as vulnerable—sometimes even more so. Whether you’re using public Wi-Fi at a coffee shop, airport, or hotel, your data can be an easy target for hackers, identity thieves, or even data-hungry advertisers.
This is where a high-quality mobile VPN (Virtual Private Network) becomes essential in 2025. A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and hides your IP address, keeping your activity private and secure. And today’s mobile VPNs aren’t just for security. Millions of people use them to bypass geographic content restrictions, access better streaming libraries, avoid price discrimination on flights and hotels, and even enhance gaming experiences by connecting to faster servers.
The mobile VPN market has matured significantly. Services are now faster, more user-friendly, and more versatile than ever. The top contenders, like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark, have fine-tuned their mobile apps to offer advanced security features, lightning-fast speeds, and simple one-tap connections for both Android and iPhone users. Some VPNs even include built-in ad-blockers, malware protection, and tools to prevent mobile carriers from logging your activity.
According to a 2024 report by Statista, over 1.6 billion people worldwide now use VPNs, with mobile usage accounting for the largest share. And with the growing concerns around digital privacy, data breaches, and government surveillance, these numbers are only expected to rise in 2025.
Below is a ranking of the best VPNs for mobile this year, based on speed, security, ease of use, and overall value:
| Rank | VPN Name |
|---|---|
| 1 | NordVPN |
| 2 | ExpressVPN |
| 3 | Surfshark |
| 4 | ProtonVPN |
| 5 | CyberGhost |
| 6 | Turbo VPN |
| 7 | Windscribe |
| 8 | TunnelBear |
| 9 | Hotspot Shield |
| 10 | IPVanish |
Whether you need a VPN to secure sensitive data, unblock streaming services while traveling, or just keep your browsing private, these mobile VPNs are the best options available in 2025.
1. NordVPN
NordVPN stands out as one of the fastest VPN apps for mobile phones. Users enjoy high-speed browsing without sacrificing security, making it perfect for on-the-go internet use.
The app works on many devices including Android smartphones, tablets, and TVs. You can download NordVPN quickly from the Google Play Store for instant protection.
One big advantage is that a single account secures up to 10 devices at once. This means your phone, tablet, and other gadgets can all stay protected under one subscription.
NordVPN helps users stay safe from online threats. It blocks phishing attempts, scams, and malware that often target mobile users when they connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
The mobile app is praised for being easy to use. Even people who aren’t tech-savvy can turn on protection with just a tap, making security simple for everyone.
According to long-time users, NordVPN offers reliable, fast, and secure services worth the price. The company continues to add features that keep it competitive in 2025.
CNET has named NordVPN the fastest VPN for mobile devices in 2025. The review mentions that the app is “a breeze to use” on both major mobile platforms.
The service comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. This lets new users try all features risk-free to make sure it meets their needs before fully committing.
NordVPN’s mobile app connects quickly to servers around the world. This lets users access content that might be blocked in their area while keeping their online activities private.
For travelers, NordVPN provides a way to safely use hotel Wi-Fi and other public networks. The encrypted connection stops hackers from stealing personal information or banking details.
2. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN stands out as a top choice for mobile users. This VPN offers impressive speed and security features that work well on phones and tablets.
The app is easy to use on both Android and iOS devices. Users can connect with just one tap, making it perfect for people who aren’t tech experts.
ExpressVPN uses strong encryption to keep your data safe. When you connect to public Wi-Fi at coffee shops or airports, your information stays protected from hackers.
The mobile VPN app has been designed with special features for phones. It doesn’t drain your battery quickly like some other VPNs might.
Many experts rank ExpressVPN as the best overall VPN for phones. The service works reliably across different networks and situations.
Speed is a major advantage with ExpressVPN. Videos stream smoothly without much buffering, and websites load quickly even when connected to servers far away.
The app includes a kill switch feature. This stops all internet traffic if your VPN connection drops, keeping your real IP address hidden.
ExpressVPN offers servers in many countries. This helps users access content that might be blocked in their location.
The company has a no-logs policy. They don’t track or store what you do online, which adds another layer of privacy.
Customer support is available 24/7 through live chat. If you have problems with the mobile app, help is always just a few clicks away.
While ExpressVPN costs more than some competitors, many users feel the reliable performance justifies the price. The app receives regular updates to fix bugs and add new features.
The Android version has high ratings on Google Play. Users praise its speed and how easy it is to use.
ExpressVPN works well for streaming services on mobile devices. Users can watch shows from different regions without constant interruptions.
The split tunneling feature lets you choose which apps use the VPN. This saves data and speeds up apps that don’t need protection.
3. Surfshark
Surfshark stands out in the mobile VPN market as one of the best cheap options available today. It offers unlimited connections, which means you can protect all your family’s devices with just one subscription.
The app design is simple and easy to use. Even beginners can navigate through its features without confusion. The clean interface works well on both Android and iOS devices.
Surfshark’s speed performance is impressive for its price point. Users can stream videos and download files without noticeable slowdowns on mobile networks. This makes it great for on-the-go entertainment.
Security features include strong encryption and a strict no-logs policy. Surfshark uses AES-256 encryption to keep your mobile data private. The kill switch feature prevents data leaks if your VPN connection drops.
Privacy protection is enhanced with CleanWeb, which blocks ads and malware. This feature helps save mobile data and improves battery life by reducing unwanted content.
Surfshark offers unlimited connections with a single subscription, making it perfect for families or people with multiple devices. You can connect phones, tablets, and other gadgets all at once.
The mobile app includes a Whitelister feature. This lets certain apps bypass the VPN if needed. It’s useful for banking apps that might not work with VPNs active.
Customer support is available 24/7 through live chat. Help is quick and responsive if you run into any issues with the mobile app. Email support is also available for more complex problems.
Surfshark has servers in over 100 countries. This wide coverage helps users find faster connections no matter where they travel. More server options also mean better access to geo-restricted content.
Monthly plans are affordable, but long-term subscriptions offer the best value. Surfshark regularly ranks among the best VPN services that won’t break the bank.
The app receives regular updates to fix bugs and improve performance. These updates happen automatically, so your protection stays current without extra effort on your part.
4. ProtonVPN
ProtonVPN stands out as a top choice for mobile users seeking both security and speed. This VPN service offers a user-friendly interface and strong no-logs policy, making it popular among privacy-conscious users.
The mobile app works smoothly on Android devices, with many users praising its clean design. ProtonVPN provides fast connections with enhanced privacy features that don’t slow down browsing speed significantly.
One standout feature is that ProtonVPN offers a free plan with unlimited data. This makes it an excellent starting point for new VPN users who want to test the waters before committing.
Security is a priority with ProtonVPN. They use strong VPN protocols including OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard, and their custom Stealth protocol which helps bypass internet censorship in restricted areas.
The Kill Switch feature adds another layer of protection. It cuts internet access if your VPN connection drops, preventing data leaks that could expose your real IP address.
ProtonVPN is based in Switzerland, a country with strong privacy laws. This gives users extra confidence that their data won’t be handed over to third parties.
The app interface is simple to navigate even for beginners. Users can connect to servers with a single tap and easily switch between locations when needed.
Some users on Reddit consider ProtonVPN among the top three VPN options alongside Mullvad and iVPN. This speaks to its solid reputation in the VPN community.
Premium plans unlock faster servers, streaming support, and additional features. However, even the free version provides solid protection for basic browsing needs.
Battery impact is minimal compared to some competitors. The app is designed to use resources efficiently, which is crucial for mobile users.
ProtonVPN also takes a strong stance on transparency. Their applications are open-source, allowing security experts to check the code for any issues or backdoors.
5. CyberGhost
CyberGhost is a strong option for mobile VPN users who want a mix of speed and security. Their app works well on iOS and Android devices. It has a simple interface that most people can use without trouble.
CyberGhost offers fast servers that help keep your mobile experience smooth. This means you can stream videos or browse websites without the annoying lag that some VPNs cause.
The mobile app comes with special servers for streaming and torrenting. This makes it easy to find the right connection for what you want to do on your phone or tablet.
Privacy is a key strength for CyberGhost. They have a strict no-logs policy, which means they don’t track or store your online activities. This helps keep your mobile browsing private.
CyberGhost has been rated among the top mobile VPNs by experts. It offers good value with plans that won’t break the bank.
The app includes a kill switch that cuts your internet if the VPN drops. This stops your real location from leaking when you’re on public Wi-Fi at coffee shops or airports.
You can connect up to seven devices at once with one CyberGhost account. This lets you protect your phone, tablet, and other gadgets all at the same time.
CyberGhost’s support team is available 24/7 if you run into problems. You can reach them through live chat directly from the mobile app.
The service has over 9,000 servers in 90+ countries. This wide coverage helps you find fast connections no matter where you are using your mobile device.
For security, CyberGhost uses AES 256-bit encryption. This is the same level of protection used by banks and government agencies to keep data safe.
6. Turbo VPN
Turbo VPN offers a free and unlimited VPN proxy service for mobile users. It provides fast connections and stable servers to help secure online activities and browsing sessions.
The app is widely available on both major mobile platforms. Users can download it from the Google Play Store for Android devices or the App Store for iPhones.
One of the main benefits of Turbo VPN is its user-friendly interface. The simple design makes it easy for even beginners to connect to VPN servers and protect their data.
Turbo VPN features a network of global servers. This wide coverage helps users bypass geo-restrictions and access content from different regions around the world.
The service focuses on privacy protection. It encrypts user traffic to help keep personal data safe from hackers and snoopers, especially when using public Wi-Fi networks.
For Chrome users, Turbo VPN also offers a browser extension. This provides an easy way to protect web browsing without installing the full mobile app.
Speed is another key feature of Turbo VPN. As its name suggests, the service aims to provide quick connections without the lag that some VPN services cause.
The free version of Turbo VPN comes with some limitations. Users looking for more features may need to consider their premium options for additional servers and faster speeds.
Security-minded users appreciate Turbo VPN’s encryption capabilities. The service helps protect against data theft and keeps browsing habits private from internet service providers.
Turbo VPN works well for common mobile activities. It can help users stream videos, browse social media, and use messaging apps while maintaining privacy.
The official website claims to offer 21,000+ servers worldwide. This large network helps ensure users can find fast and reliable connections regardless of their location.
7. Windscribe
Windscribe stands out as a top VPN option for mobile users. This service offers a generous 10GB of free data per month, making it perfect for casual users who don’t need constant VPN protection.
Security is a major strength for Windscribe. The app encrypts your browsing activity and maintains a strict no-logging policy, ensuring your online activities remain private. These features help protect users when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks.
The mobile interface is clean and easy to navigate. Users can connect to servers with just a few taps, which is ideal for those who want protection without complicated setup processes.
Windscribe also includes an ad blocker feature. This helps improve browsing speeds and reduces data usage by stopping ads before they load on your device.
According to mobile users, Windscribe provides solid connection speeds. The app rarely suffers from the slowdowns that plague many free VPN services, making it suitable for streaming and browsing.
The sign-up process is straightforward and user-friendly. PCMag has praised Windscribe for its “easy and anonymous signup process,” which requires minimal personal information.
For those who need more data or features, Windscribe offers affordable premium plans. These unlock unlimited data usage and access to servers in more countries.
Windscribe works on multiple platforms beyond mobile. Users can install it on computers, tablets, and other devices with the same account, providing consistent protection across all devices.
The app receives regular updates to fix bugs and improve performance. This ongoing development shows the company’s commitment to maintaining a quality service.
While not as feature-rich as some premium options like NordVPN, Windscribe delivers excellent value. Its combination of free access, strong security, and reliable performance makes it a smart choice for budget-conscious mobile users.
8. TunnelBear
TunnelBear is a simple VPN service that stands out for its user-friendly approach to mobile security. The app features a playful bear-themed design that makes it approachable for new VPN users.
The mobile app is available for both Android and iOS devices. It offers a clean interface that doesn’t overwhelm users with complex settings or technical jargon.
TunnelBear changes your IP address to protect your browsing data from online threats. This protection helps users access websites and apps worldwide that might be blocked in their location.
Security is a key feature of TunnelBear’s mobile offering. The app uses strong encryption to keep your data safe while you browse the internet or use other apps on your phone.
One benefit of TunnelBear is its free option. Users can try the service with a limited data allowance before deciding to upgrade to a paid plan. This makes it great for occasional VPN users.
The app has earned praise for its whimsical design and strong privacy stance. Its bear animations add a fun element while still delivering serious security features.
Speed on mobile devices is generally good for everyday browsing and streaming. However, power users might find the connection speeds slightly slower than some competitors.
TunnelBear keeps a strict no-logs policy. This means they don’t track or store information about your online activities, which is crucial for privacy-conscious users.
The mobile app includes a feature called VigilantBear, which works like a kill switch. It stops all internet traffic if your VPN connection drops unexpectedly, preventing data leaks.
Setup on mobile devices is straightforward. Users can download the app and be connected within minutes, making it ideal for those who want protection without technical hassle.
TunnelBear offers servers in over 20 countries. While this count is lower than some competitors, it covers most popular locations that mobile users need for content access and privacy.
9. Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield stands out as a leading VPN for online security. It has been verified as the #1 VPN for speed by experts, making it a strong contender for mobile users.
The app offers quick connection times, which many users find helpful. On Reddit, some users have noted that Hotspot Shield connects in a matter of seconds, faster than many competitors.
For mobile users, Hotspot Shield is available on both iOS and Android platforms. The iOS app lets users browse, watch content, and play games while staying private. This is especially useful when using public WiFi networks.
Android users can find similar features in the Google Play Store version. The app is promoted as ideal for browsing, online gaming, and watching videos without interruptions.
Hotspot Shield offers both free and paid versions. The free option comes with a daily limit, which might be restrictive for heavy users. The premium version removes these limits and adds more features.
Security is a key focus for this VPN. It uses encryption to protect user data and helps mask your IP address from websites and services you visit.
The interface is user-friendly, with simple controls that make it easy to connect to VPN servers. This simplicity is helpful for new VPN users who may not be familiar with complex settings.
Speed is where Hotspot Shield truly shines. According to their marketing, they are independently rated as the fastest VPN. This makes it good for streaming and gaming, which require stable, fast connections.
Battery usage is always a concern with mobile apps. Hotspot Shield is designed to be efficient, though like all VPNs, it will use some extra battery power when running.
Customer support options include help articles and contact forms. Users who need help can typically find solutions through these channels.
10. IPVanish
IPVanish is a great choice for mobile VPN users who want speed and security. The app works on both Android and iOS devices, making it easy to protect your data no matter which phone you use.
The mobile interface is simple to use. You can connect to a server with just one tap, which is perfect when you’re on the go and need protection quickly.
IPVanish offers high-speed security that won’t slow down your browsing or streaming. This makes it great for watching videos or playing games on your phone without annoying lag.
Privacy is a key strength of this service. IPVanish has a verified no-logs policy, meaning they don’t track or store your online activities. Your private information stays private.
The app includes a kill switch feature. This automatically cuts your internet if the VPN connection drops, preventing any data leaks that could expose your real location or activities.
You can connect unlimited devices with one subscription. This is helpful if you want to protect both your phone and tablet, or share with family members.
IPVanish has servers in many countries worldwide. This gives you plenty of options to bypass geo-restrictions or find the fastest connection for your location.
The cost is competitive compared to other top VPNs. They often run sales that make the price even more affordable for budget-conscious users.
Customer support is available 24/7 through live chat. If you have trouble setting up the app on your phone, help is always available.
In testing, IPVanish has performed well across the board, placing it among the top 10 fastest VPNs. This solid performance makes it a reliable choice for mobile users.
The app includes split tunneling on Android. This lets you choose which apps use the VPN connection and which use your regular internet, giving you more control over your mobile experience.
Importance of VPNs for Mobile Devices
Mobile devices store vast amounts of personal information and connect to various networks daily. VPNs provide essential protection while enabling access to content regardless of your location.
Protecting Personal Data
VPNs create encrypted connections between your phone and the internet, making it difficult for hackers to steal your information. This protection is vital whether you’re using public Wi-Fi at cafes, airports, or hotels.
Public Wi-Fi networks are often unsecured, making them easy targets for cybercriminals. Without protection, your passwords, credit card details, and private messages could be exposed.
A VPN shields your smartphone from eavesdropping by malicious actors. This extra layer of security is especially important for banking apps and email.
VPNs also help prevent data tracking. Companies track browsing habits to build user profiles for targeted ads. A VPN can boost privacy by hiding your real IP address and location.
Accessing Geo-Restricted Content
Many streaming services, websites, and apps limit content based on location. VPNs help users bypass these restrictions by masking their actual location.
With a VPN, users can:
- Watch region-locked shows on streaming platforms
- Access news sites blocked in certain countries
- Use apps not available in their app store
- Play games released only in specific regions
This feature is particularly useful when traveling. A business traveler can access their home country’s banking website, which might otherwise flag foreign logins as suspicious.
Students abroad can use educational resources from their home country. Sports fans can watch games that aren’t broadcast locally. VPNs encrypt internet traffic on phones, allowing users to avoid these restrictions without compromising security.
How Mobile VPNs Work
Mobile VPNs create a secure tunnel for your data when using smartphones or tablets. They hide your real location and encrypt your internet traffic to protect your privacy and security when connected to networks.
Encryption Protocols
Mobile VPNs use different encryption protocols to keep your data safe. The most common ones include:
- OpenVPN: Offers strong security and works on most devices
- WireGuard: A newer protocol that’s faster and uses less battery
- IKEv2/IPsec: Reconnects quickly if your connection drops
- L2TP/IPsec: Older but still secure option on many devices
These protocols scramble your data into a format only the destination server can read. Strong encryption means nobody in between can see what you’re doing online.
Your VPN app handles this complex process automatically. You just need to tap “connect” and the app takes care of the rest.
Compatibility with Mobile Operating Systems
Mobile VPNs are designed to work smoothly with iOS and Android systems. Most VPN providers offer apps specifically built for each platform.
On Android phones, VPNs have more flexibility. They can run in the background and work with most apps. Some Android VPNs even let you choose which apps use the VPN connection.
For iPhones, Apple’s security rules create some limitations. VPNs might need to reconnect more often on iOS. The good news is that most major VPN services have worked around these issues.
Both systems let VPNs mask your IP address, which hides your location. However, VPNs cannot override your phone’s GPS location services, so apps that use GPS can still know where you are.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many mobile users have common questions about VPN services for their devices. Finding the right VPN depends on your privacy needs, budget, and specific device requirements.
What are the most reputable VPN services for mobile devices?
The most trusted mobile VPN services include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark. These providers offer strong encryption and no-logs policies.
NordVPN stands out with its excellent security features and fast connection speeds. Their mobile apps are user-friendly and include a kill switch.
ExpressVPN provides reliable performance across various mobile platforms with servers in 94 countries. Their apps are simple to use even for beginners.
Surfshark offers unlimited device connections, making it great for families or users with multiple devices.
How do I choose the best free VPN for my mobile phone?
When looking for free VPNs, users should be cautious. Many free services have data caps, fewer server options, and might sell user data.
ProtonVPN offers one of the better free plans with unlimited data but limited server options. They don’t sell user information, which is rare for free services.
Check for clear privacy policies and avoid VPNs that request unnecessary permissions on your phone. Free VPNs with too many ads may also be harvesting your data.
What are the top-rated VPN apps for iPhone users?
iPhone users typically prefer NordVPN and ExpressVPN for their iOS-optimized interfaces. Both offer strong security features that work well with Apple’s ecosystem.
ExpressVPN’s iPhone app has an intuitive design that makes connecting to servers quick and simple. Their app rarely experiences connection drops.
NordVPN offers specialized servers for different activities, which iPhone users find helpful for streaming or extra security needs.
CyberGhost also ranks highly among iPhone users for its dedicated streaming servers and automatic connection features.
What factors should be considered when selecting a VPN for an Android mobile?
Android users should look for VPNs with strong encryption, a no-logs policy, and a kill switch feature. App permissions are especially important on Android.
Check if the VPN allows split tunneling, which lets you choose which apps use the VPN. This helps preserve battery life and speed.
Look for Android-specific features like protection against DNS leaks and IPv6 leaks. Some providers like Surfshark offer extra malware protection for Android.
Server count and locations matter if you need to access content from specific regions.
Can you recommend secure VPN applications for mobile devices with no cost?
ProtonVPN offers the most secure free option with unlimited data and strong encryption. Their free plan doesn’t sell user data but limits you to three server locations.
Windscribe provides 10GB of free data monthly and decent speeds. Their free plan includes servers in 10 countries.
Free options always have limitations. Users needing complete security should consider budget paid options like Surfshark, which costs around $2.50 per month on long-term plans.
What benefits do VPNs offer to mobile phone users?
VPNs protect your data when using public Wi-Fi networks by encrypting your connection. This prevents hackers from stealing your information at coffee shops or airports.
They help bypass geo-restrictions, allowing access to content blocked in your region. This includes streaming services and websites.
Mobile carriers often log data for extended periods. However, VPNs help prevent them from seeing your browsing activity.
VPNs can sometimes help you avoid price discrimination when booking flights or shopping online by hiding your location.
Some VPN services also include ad-blockers and malware protection, keeping your mobile device safer from threats.
