Best VPN for Android – 2025’s Top Choices
Looking for the best VPN for Android phones? Using a VPN on your Android device isn’t as technical as you might think, but finding the best provider requires thorough research. We reviewed our top 6 VPN apps so you can decide which one suits your security needs best.
Data privacy is an important topic. With ISPs logging and selling information, hackers stealing data, and websites tricking users out of their personal details, it seems like someone’s always out to compromise our security. Safe browsing is a concern for even casual users, and it’s especially important for Android owners who carry their devices everywhere.
Boost your privacy on Android using these high-security VPNs:
- NordVPN – Refined Android app, massive server fleet, double VPN, Threat Protection.
- Surfshark – Automatic obfuscation, modern WireGuard speeds, audited no-logs, unlimited devices.
- ExpressVPN – One-tap Android app, Lightway protocol, RAM-only servers, 10–14 simultaneous devices (plan-dependent).
- PureVPN – Huge network, post-quantum options on select endpoints, optional ad/malware blocking.
- IPVanish – Unlimited devices, straightforward Android app, strong WireGuard performance.
- VyprVPN – Self-owned network plus Chameleon protocol for tough networks.
The easiest and most accessible way to protect your data online is to use a virtual private network. VPNs act like a tunnel between your Android phone and the internet. Instead of sending raw web browsing data tied to your IP address, a VPN encrypts information and sends it to servers around the world. This makes it much harder to identify individual users, keeping your privacy intact no matter your location or which network you connect to.
Editor's Pick October 2025
Top VPN apps to boost your Android’s security
What is the best VPN to use on Android? We’ve scoured the market for the top providers with Android-compatible apps, and compiled a list of our favorites, each offering:
- Limited time money-back guarantee
- The ability to unblock streaming services
- High uptime rates
- No-logs policy with independent audits
- Customer support
- Optimized performance for torrenting
- Robust security and encryption practices
Here’s a table with some quick stats before we dive deeper into each provider.
| NordVPN | Surfshark | ExpressVPN | PureVPN | IPVanish | VyprVPN | |
| Locations | 127 | 100 | 105 | 65+ | 145+* | 96+ |
| Servers | 8,200+ | 3,200+ | 3,000+ | 6,000+ | 3,100+ | 700+ |
| Uptime | 99% | 99% | 99% | 99% | 99% | 99% |
| Connections | 10 | Unlimited | 10–14† | 10 | Unlimited | 10 |
| Best Price | $3.19/month | $1.99/month | $3.49/month | $2.14/month | $2.19/month | $3.00/month |
†ExpressVPN device limit varies by tier: 10 (Basic), 12 (Advanced), 14 (Pro).
1. Best Overall: NordVPN
- Very large server fleet
- No IP/DNS leaks found
- Extra-secure Double VPN for data encryption
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Some of the fastest VPN speeds on the market
- Renewal cost is high
- Some advanced tools and features limited to higher tiers
NordVPN has some of the most unique features of any VPN service, such as its signature Double VPN (multi-hop) encryption. This wraps all data in AES-256, making it incredibly secure—even against a supercomputer. Threat Protection is available across all tiers to filter malicious domains and ads.
Read our full NordVPN review.
2. Best for Unlimited Connections: Surfshark
- Every server is a specialty server
- Simple, clean app interface makes constant security a given
- No logging of IPs, bandwidth, or traffic
- Get help any time of day via email, phone, or live chat
- Basic tier still has tons of tools and functionality
- Fewer servers than competitors like NordVPN
- Expensive renewal prices
Launched in 2019, Surfshark has some of the most modern privacy provisions–like the cutting-edge 256-AES-GCM (unbreakable by a supercomputer), and the same encryption used by the NSA. It completely blocks third-parties from viewing data transmitted through your OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec, or WireGuard tunnel. It also doesn’t slow down speeds with unnecessary encryption overhead.
One of Surfshark’s greatest strengths is its support for an unlimited number of simultaneous connections. While some other VPN services also offer this, it remains rare—especially when paired with Surfshark’s fast speeds and advanced features.
3. Best for Built-in Extras: ExpressVPN
- Fastest servers we have tested
- Torrenting/P2P allowed
- Keeps no logs of personal data
- Top-tier customer support (24/7 live chat)
- More expensive than some competitors
- Simultaneous device connections require a higher-priced plan
ExpressVPN has a well-deserved reputation for speed, consistently high numbers on speed tests from a variety of locations. The network has thousands of servers in 105 countries and counting, providing plenty of options for bypassing content restrictions or finding a faster connection.
Read our full ExpressVPN review.
4. Good for Beginners: PureVPN
PureVPN is a safe haven for privacy advocates looking for fast, reliable, and unrestricted internet access. They offer unlimited switching between 6,000+ servers in 65+ countries (80 overall locations), unbeatable encryption practices, a strict no-logs policy, unlimited bandwidth, and no file type restrictions.
All of this is backed by a fantastic 99.99% uptime rating, ensuring you’re never without access to a private internet connection, wherever you are. Lastly, this provider is an excellent choice for VPN beginners, offering a user-friendly interface and plenty of learning resources.
5. Best Mid-Tier Option: IPVanish
IPVanish refuses to compromise on speed or security. It offers access to 3100+ servers in over 145 locations, each locked down with 256-bit AES encryption and a no-exceptions zero-logging policy.
This no-logs policy is extremely important, due to their history of turning over user data. The new owners, however, are now regaining trust in their privacy practices.
Besides a solid commitment to no-logs, IPVanish also provides unlimited bandwidth, no restrictions on P2P or torrent traffic, and amazing speed test results. This makes them a solid choice for Android users looking for maximum internet privacy.
Read our full IPVanish review.
6. Best for Privacy and Security Practices: VyprVPN
VyprVPN owns and operates its entire network of 700 servers in over 96 global locations, allowing it to customize hardware and software for optimal privacy and speed. By not outsourcing maintenance and development to third parties, VyprVPN has more control over its network, which means better security.
Another huge bonus is their proprietary Chameleon VPN protocol, which is specifically designed to help overcome blocks and restrictions in highly censored regions, such as China, Russia, and Turkey.
Read our full VyprVPN review.
Factors to Consider for Android VPNs
Getting the best VPN for your Android device can feel daunting. Focus on:
- Cost and renewal pricing
- Speed (especially on mobile data)
- Compatibility
- Privacy policies
- Server distribution
Below we break down the importance of each.
App compatibility
Be sure your VPN supports Android devices. Most major VPNs have a custom Android app or support OpenVPN, which is free to download for all users. A lightweight interface is especially useful on mobile devices with small touch screens.
No-logs policy
A good VPN never keeps activity or connection logs. While data sent through its servers is encrypted, if a third party or government agency were to seize the servers, the information could still be decrypted. However, if your provider keeps no logs, there is no data to expose.
Wide server distribution
Whether you’re traveling or just want to access content not available in your country, switching virtual locations is a major benefit. VPNs with large server networks maximize your county and city options for accessing geo-restricted content.
Fast speeds
Unfortunately, VPNs are notorious for slow download speeds. Encryption overhead and long-distance server connections are the main culprits. To help offset this, choose VPN providers that offer high speeds, even on mobile devices.
No traffic limitations
One of the best features of Android is its wide support of files and apps from a variety of sources. Some VPNs ban certain types of downloads, like P2P traffic or torrents. Be sure to choose a VPN that allows all types of traffic without restrictions.
How We Test VPNs for Android
Our testing criteria for Android-friendly VPNs include:
- Speed tests across regions and activities
- Customer support availability and responsiveness
- User-friendliness of their Android app
- How competitively priced they are compared to other VPNs
- Extra features that are available (malware blocking, ad/tracker blocking, etc.)
- Privacy and security practices
- Accessibility of geo-blocked content (e.g. streaming services)
- Android OS and Android TV compatibility
What is the Best Free VPN for Android?
If you’re looking for the best free VPN for Android, the Google Play app store is loaded with options that promise free and unlimited service. But, there’s a catch.
Running a VPN costs money. To maintain that network, a VPN provider needs revenue. Frequently, free VPN providers make money by selling the data they promise to protect. Even if the service’s privacy policy states otherwise, free VPNs have no incentive to keep your information secure. If you value data privacy, go with a paid service. Using a free VPN just isn’t worth the risk, especially when there are so many affordable VPNs out there.
If you’re determined to use a free VPN, try a free trial of a more reputable provider. At the very least, we recommend looking at user reviews and policy agreements before diving in. Just remember, most free VPNs have some strings attached.
That said, there are some reputable free VPNs that act as limited versions of full services. Most also offer paid tiers with advanced features, secure encryption protocols, and no-logs policies.
Free tiers come with restrictions on device connections and server access, but they can be useful if you only need a VPN occasionally or want to test one before upgrading.
Below is a brief overview of two of our favorite free VPN providers for Android.
Windscribe
Pros
- 10GB of free data
- Most app features available on free tier
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- 10 server locations with free plan
Cons
- Fewer locations/servers on free plan
Windscribe is a highly praised free VPN known for strong data privacy, even earning positive mentions on tech and Reddit forums. It offers an Android-specific app, a no-logs policy, strong encryption, and many advanced features. Paid plans are reasonably priced, and the free tier lets you test the service before committing.
ProtonVPN
Pros
- Highly reputable provider
- Unlimited data and speeds
- No ads
- No-logs policy
- Free plan has no time limit
- Compatible with most devices
- Works on Android and Android TV
Cons
- Only one device allowed on the free plan
- Limited to five countries on free plan
- Some features only accessible on paid tiers
ProtonVPN is another great choice if you’re looking for a free VPN with no strings attached. Yes, there are limitations, such as a small server selection, but you still get basics like a Kill Switch and access to the Stealth VPN protocol.
The paid tier of ProtonVPN offers 13,000 servers in 120 countries, making an upgrade well worth the cost.
Community VPN Recommendations for Android Devices
Looking at community reviews for the best VPN for Android, we came across some recurring recommendations. Here are popular picks often mentioned in forums and app-store reviews:
- ProtonVPN and Windscribe (for free options)
- NordVPN
- Mullvad VPN
- Surfshark
- ExpressVPN
- Private Internet Access (PIA)
- IPVanish
- PureVPN
Frequently Asked Questions about Android VPNs
What is OpenVPN?
OpenVPN is free, open-source software that creates secure connections between devices and websites. Thanks to its ease of use and wide availability, many VPN providers use it as their primary software for non-standard operating systems, such as smaller Linux distributions, as well as for their mobile and desktop apps.
If you’ve researched installing a VPN on your router, you’ve likely come across OpenVPN. It’s embedded in router firmware such as DD-WRT, OpenWRT, and Tomato.
Many VPNs also let you use OpenVPN instead of their custom apps, which is helpful if their software doesn’t run well on your device. Since OpenVPN works on nearly all Android devices, it’s a strong alternative.
Why should I use a VPN for Android?
Using a VPN circumvents many privacy issues facing internet users. Encryption ensures your information stays scrambled, even as it moves around the world, and switching virtual locations lets you access content otherwise unavailable in your area. Other reasons:
- Privacy everywhere: Android devices are made to travel. Connecting to public Wi-Fi carries a number of risks, such as possibly untrustworthy ISPs. With a VPN, it’s much safer to connect to public networks.
- Access region-locked content: Traveling means being limited to the content restrictions of your host country. With a VPN, you can switch virtual locations and access worldwide content from Netflix and other streaming services like Hulu and YouTube. You can watch your favorite media and bypass local censorship.
- Stop ISPs from tracking you: Using your phone at home isn’t necessarily safe. Local internet service providers collect and store browsing data and personal information, and often have the legal right to sell these to third parties without your consent. A VPN prevents ISPs accessing your private information by encrypting data.
- Better local privacy: VPNs offer fantastic privacy/security for data leaving your device. To ensure information stays secure locally, however, you’ll need to encrypt the phone itself. This prevents data theft in cases of a lost or stolen device. Pairing a VPN with local encryption is smart. Android offers all the tools you’ll need to encrypt your device from end to end, minimally impacting usability.[S1]
Do Android phones have a built-in VPN?
Android phones have a built-in VPN client specifically for protocols L2TP, IPsec, and PPTP. While not a full VPN service, it lets you connect to a VPN server, such as one provided by your workplace IT department (who will supply the connection details).
Here are the initial steps:
- Go to Settings
- Go to Network & internet
- Tap VPN or search for VPN if needed
- On the upper right of the screen, tap the Add +
- Fill in the information provided from your administrator
- Choose Save
From there, to use the VPN:
- Go to Settings
- Go to Network & internet
- Choose VPN
- Tap the VPN you want to use (it should be saved from the previous steps)
- Fill in your login credentials
- Tap Connect
Remember, the built-in client for your phone doesn’t provide full VPN functionality. It just lets you connect to a VPN server once you’ve been given the login details. A paid service offers far more features and flexibility, so if you plan on using a VPN for personal needs, one of the providers we reviewed is likely your best bet.
Which VPN is most trusted?
To be considered trustworthy, a VPN should have a strict, independently audited no-logs policy. Ideally, it would also be based in a country with strong privacy laws that don’t require handing user data to government agencies. The US, unfortunately, is not one of these countries, so keep this in mind when choosing a provider.
That said, many reputable VPNs operate in jurisdictions with weaker privacy protections. What matters most is that they don’t keep user logs or identifying data—if no data is stored, none can be turned over. For this reason, the providers in our list can be considered highly trustworthy.
What is the best 100% free VPN for Android?
Overall, most free VPNs raise red flags for the reasons we’ve covered. However, if you want a safe option with a strong reputation, ProtonVPN and Windscribe are among the most popular choices.
Conclusion
Using a VPN with your Android device protects your data while unlocking geo-blocked content across the globe. Now you know what to look for, you can confidently pick the best VPN for Android.
What’s new in this update
- Refreshed quick-stats table: current server counts, locations, device limits, and pricing ranges.
- ExpressVPN: clarified 105-country coverage and new tiered device limits (10/12/14).
- NordVPN: reiterated Double VPN, Threat Protection, and large network size.
- Surfshark: reaffirmed unlimited devices and WireGuard-based performance.
- PureVPN: confirmed 6,000+ servers/65+ countries and post-quantum options on select endpoints.
- IPVanish: clarified unlimited devices and ~3,100+ servers across 145+ locations.
- VyprVPN: confirmed self-owned network (700+ servers/70+ countries) and Chameleon protocol.
- Added section: “Best Free VPNs for Android” (Windscribe & Proton VPN).
Last updated: 2025-10-14
If you need a VPN for a short while when traveling for example, you can get our top ranked VPN free of charge. NordVPN includes a 30-day money-back guarantee. You will need to pay for the subscription, that’s a fact, but it allows full access for 30 days and then you cancel for a full refund. Their no-questions-asked cancellation policy lives up to its name.
I am using Ipvanish, it stopped working after the latest update. It doesn’t connect on both my android phone and tab. i tried every possible solution, no dice! Really disappointing!
ExpressVPN rules. Out of every service I tried they were the best. Glad to see it’s getting its due credit.
Technically, point number 2 of limitations shouldn’t even be considered a limitation. It’s like expecting your anti-virus to increase your downloading speed or your fps count in a game. vpns like pure, ivacy and express are there to encypt the data and protect users from getting their phones hacked when they’re sitting in starbucks or KFC, not to guard against malware because malware has a different mechanism. but i still do agree with the post’s point of freebies being unsafe. but i guess one can only get as much for free.
Excellent information. You summarize it beautifully.
My vpn is not in the list ;(
Its cheap and works completely fine on android.
Please add ivacy too. Thanks.