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
Surfshark – Best Value For Money Android VPN
ExpressVPN – Premium Secure Android VPN
PureVPN – Best Android VPN for Fast Connections
Proton VPN – Best Freemium VPN for Android Devices
IvacyVPN – Best Android VPN for Long-Term Use
CyberGhost VPN – Best Android VPN for Streaming
PrivadoVPN – Best Free VPN for Android Users
VyprVPN – Best Android VPN for Geo-Restriction Bypassing
Private Internet Access – Best Android VPN for Travelers
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 |
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 |
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: 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. To make an informed decision, consider these factors when choosing a reliable Android VPN for yourself: 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. 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. 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.Pros
Cons
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
Pros
Cons
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
Pros
Cons
Proton VPN – Best Freemium VPN for Android Devices
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
Pros
Cons
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
Pros
Cons
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
Pros
Cons
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
Pros
Cons
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
Pros
Cons
Private Internet Access – Best Android VPN for Travelers
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
Pros
Cons
How We Review and Test VPN Services
20 VPNS TESTED
25 DATA POINTS MEASURED
300+ HOURS TESTING
500+ USER REVIEWS READ
Does Android Have a Built-In VPN?
Why Should I Use Android VPN?
Are Android VPNs Safe?
What Devices Can I Use an Android VPN On?
Can I Use the VPN for Android on Other Operating Systems?
How to Choose the Best VPN for Android
How to Use A VPN on Android
How to Setup a VPN on Android
Step 1 – Choose a reliable Android VPN
Step 2 – Purchase your subscription and set up an account
Step 3 – Head to Google Play Store
Step 4 – Login to your VPN account
Step 5 – Connect to a VPN server
Best Free Android VPN vs. Paid Subscription
Conclusion
FAQs
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References