7 Best VPNs for iPhone in 2024 (2024)

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Which VPN works best on iPhones? Use our guide to compare the pricing and features of the 7 best VPNs for iPhone.

For iPhone users, having a reliable virtual private network is crucial for maintaining security and privacy while using the internet. A VPN creates a safer and more secure browsing experience, minimizing the risk of data breaches. It can also block your internet service provider from tracking which apps and sites you visit, as well as allow you to mask your actual location when surfing the net.

With numerous VPN options available for iPhone users, choosing the right app can be a challenge.

To help simplify the selection process, we have curated a list of the best VPNs for iPhone users.

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1PulsewayVisit WebsiteCompany SizeEmployees per Company SizeMicro (0-49), Small (50-249), Medium (250-999), Large (1,000-4,999), Enterprise (5,000+)Any Company SizeAny Company SizeFeaturesActivity Monitoring, Antivirus, Dashboard, and more
2ManageEngine Log360Visit WebsiteCompany SizeEmployees per Company SizeMicro (0-49), Small (50-249), Medium (250-999), Large (1,000-4,999), Enterprise (5,000+)Micro (0-49 Employees), Small (50-249 Employees), Medium (250-999 Employees), Large (1,000-4,999 Employees), Enterprise (5,000+ Employees)Micro, Small, Medium, Large, EnterpriseFeaturesActivity Dashboard, Advanced Threat Analytics, Analytics/Reporting, and more
3DashlaneVisit WebsiteCompany SizeEmployees per Company SizeMicro (0-49), Small (50-249), Medium (250-999), Large (1,000-4,999), Enterprise (5,000+)Micro (0-49 Employees), Small (50-249 Employees), Medium (250-999 Employees), Large (1,000-4,999 Employees), Enterprise (5,000+ Employees)Micro, Small, Medium, Large, EnterpriseFeaturesAutomated Provisioning

Best VPNs for iPhone: Comparison table

The following table provides a summary of the common features found in VPNs and how these features compare against each other.

Ads BlockerMaximum DevicesIntegrated Kill SwitchFree trialPricing
NordVPNYes6 devicesYesNoStarts at $3.39/month
SurfsharkYesUnlimitedYes7-day free trialStarts at $1.99/month
ExpressVPNYes8 devicesYesYes. 7-day free trial (only on Android and iOS)Starts at $6.67/month
IPVanishYesUnlimitedKill switch only available on macOS, Android and Windows7-day free trial (only on Android and iOS)Starts at $2.99/month
Atlas VPNYesUnlimitedYesYesStarts at $1.83/month
Proton VPNYes10 devicesYesYesStarts at $4.99/month
Private Internet Access (PIA)YesUnlimitedYes7-day free trial (only on Android and iOS)Starts at $2.03/month for two years

7 Best VPNs for iPhone users

Here is our list of the top VPNs for iPhone users, detailing their unique features, pricing plans, pros and cons.

7 Best VPNs for iPhone in 2024 (4)

NordVPN: Best overall

NordVPN is best used on the KEv2 VPN protocol for iOS and offers features like Threat Protection Lite to protect users from annoying and potentially malicious ads. And, according to NordVPN, its NordLynx protocol delivers ultra-fast speed.

NordVPN can be managed using Siri, for those who prefer to use voice commands on their iPhone. This eliminates the need for users to touch their device when connecting their iPhone to the VPN. Other advanced features include a dark web monitor that alerts users when their credentials hit the dark web, an automatic kill switch that prevents user data from leaking to the web and Onion over VPN for enhanced privacy.

Why we chose NordVPN

We chose NordVPN as the best overall VPN for iPhone users because of its combination of special servers like double VPN, P2P and Onion over VPN, its speed enabled by the NordLynx protocol and convenient voice control via Siri shortcuts.

7 Best VPNs for iPhone in 2024 (5)

Pricing

NordVPN provides three subscription plans: Standard, Plus and Ultimate, with billing options available on a monthly, yearly or biennial basis. It also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans.

  • Monthly plan: Ultimate – $15.99/month, Plus – $13.99/month, Standard – $12.99/month.
  • One-year plan: Ultimate – $7.99/month, Plus – $5.99/month, Standard – $4.99/month.
  • Two-year plan: Ultimate – $6.39/month, Plus – $4.39/ month, Standard – $3.39/month.

Features

  • Only compatible with iOS 13.0 and later versions.
  • Kill switch feature to maintain anonymity.
  • Compatible with Siri.
  • Split tunneling for selective routing of internet traffic.

Pros

  • No-logs policy.
  • Can be used through voice commands.
  • Additional security features like kill switch and Dark Web Monitor.
  • User-friendly interface and easy setup process.
  • Users can switch between different VPN protocols.
  • 6,000+ servers in 61 countries.

Cons

  • Additional security features are only available on higher-subscription plans.
  • Subscriptions might be considered higher in price compared to other VPN providers.
  • Only six devices can connect to a single account.
  • No free trial.

Read our full review of NordVPN.

7 Best VPNs for iPhone in 2024 (6)

Surfshark: Best for multiple device connections

Surfshark VPN is built for iOS 13.0 with 64-bit architecture or later versions. It’s easy to set up on the iPhone as users can run the installation directly from the Apple Store and use the Quick-Connect button on the home interface to connect to their preferred location without any further configuration. Surfshark offers the CleanWeb, antivirus and Bypasser features for protection against intrusive ads and an enhanced web experience. One key advantage of Surfshark is its ability to connect with unlimited devices. The VPN also boasts over 3,000 servers in 100 countries, providing users with a wide range of connection options for the best speeds.

7 Best VPNs for iPhone in 2024 (7)

Why we chose Surfshark

Surfshark made it to our list due to its unlimited device connection feature, which is ideal for families, individuals with numerous gadgets or anyone who prioritizes flexibility and protection across all their devices.

Pricing

Surfshark offers the following pricing plans: Surfshark Starter, Surfshark One and Surfshark One+, with billing available on a monthly, 12-month and 24-month basis. There is a 30-day money-back guarantee across all pricing tiers.

  • Monthly subscription: Surfshark Starter – $10.99 per month, Surfshark One – $14.99 per month and Surfshark One+ – $21.99 per month.
  • 12-month subscription: Surfshark Starter – $3.49 per month, Surfshark One – $4.09 per month and Surfshark One+ – $6.49 per month.
  • 24-month subscription: Surfshark Starter – $1.99 per month, Surfshark One – $2.69 per month and Surfshark One+ – $3.99 per month.

Features

  • RAM-only servers for extra privacy and security.
  • Runs only on iOS 13.0 with 64-bit architecture or later versions.
  • CleanWeb, antivirus and Bypasser features block ads and malware.
  • Supports WireGuard or IKEv2 protocol.
  • No-logs policy to protect user privacy.
  • Surfshark Search browser for ad-free browsing.

Pros

  • Large server network for global access.
  • User-friendly interface and easy setup process.
  • Offers a 7-day free trial.
  • Offers antivirus protection.
  • Supports unlimited simultaneous device connection.

Cons

  • Only compatible with iOS 13.0 with 64-bit architecture or later versions.
  • The Starter plan lacks key features like breach monitoring and antivirus.

Read our full review of Surfshark.

7 Best VPNs for iPhone in 2024 (8)

ExpressVPN: Best for speed

ExpressVPN is another VPN solution for iPhones with a vast network of servers in numerous countries. It’s designed to run on iPhone 6+ up to the latest models and iOS 12 and later versions. It also offers more compatibility with older iOS versions than some of its competitors. Some impressive features include the availability of multiple encryption protocols like UDP, TCP and IKEv2 encryption, which users can select manually or allow the VPN to do so automatically.

ExpressVPN’s built-in security features can offer protection over WiFi, LTE/4G, 3G and all mobile data carriers. With one subscription, users can connect to up to eight devices simultaneously. ExpressVPN also allows iPhone users to customize their VPN with links to their most-used services for easy accessibility.

7 Best VPNs for iPhone in 2024 (9)

Why we chose ExpressVPN

We picked ExpressVPN as being the best for speed because it maintained ultra-fast speed during our testing rounds on multiple servers.

Pricing

ExpressVPN offers three subscription plans with different pricing and billing cycles. It also has a 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • Monthly plan: Starts at $12.95/month.
  • 6-month plan: Starts at $9.99/month.
  • 12-month plan: Starts at $6.67/month.

Features

  • No activity logs are kept.
  • Split tunneling feature.
  • High-speed connections.
  • Multilingual interface.
  • Kill switch for added security.
  • Runs on iPhone 6+ and later models.

Pros

  • Supports multiple encryption protocols.
  • Multiple language support.
  • Offers protection over WiFi, LTE/4G, 3G and all mobile data carriers.
  • 24/7 customer support.
  • Supports in-app troubleshooting.
  • Live chat agent support on the app.

Cons

  • In-app troubleshooting offers limited answers to queries.
  • Offers only five simultaneous connections.

See our full review of ExpressVPN.

7 Best VPNs for iPhone in 2024 (10)

IPVanish: Best for accessing streaming channels

IPVanish offers iPhone users online protection in four key areas: ISP tracking, public WiFi snoopers, unjust censorship and hackers. It has features like Connect on Demand, which automatically secures your internet connection when the VPN detects a malicious domain. There is also the API balancing feature designed to suggest the most stable VPN server automatically. Apart from having a no-logs policy, IPVanish also has the Alternative Connection Mode feature for boosting VPN connections in countries and situations where VPN connections are difficult to achieve. In addition, IPVanish supports the iOS 13 version and later and grants connection to an unlimited number of devices on a single account.

7 Best VPNs for iPhone in 2024 (11)

Why we chose IPVanish

We identified this product as being best for streaming due to its Connect on Demand feature that secures connections against malicious domains and its API balancing feature that suggests stable VPN servers, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted streaming experiences.

Pricing

IPVanish follows the monthly, yearly and two-year pricing methods, with a 30-day money-back guarantee attached to all plans, except the monthly plan.

  • Monthly plan: Starts at $7.99/month.
  • Yearly plan: Starts at $3.59/month.
  • Two-year plan: Starts at $2.99/month.

Features

  • VPN protocols include WireGuard, IKEv2, OpenVPN and IPSec.
  • Offers access to Netflix and other streaming channels.
  • Unlimited device connections.
  • Available on iOS 13 version and later.

Pros

  • Supports unlimited device connection for each plan.
  • There is a no-logs policy in place.
  • Clean user interface.
  • Offers a 7-day free trial.

Cons

  • There is no kill switch feature in the iOS version.
  • The interface looks somewhat cluttered.

Read our detailed review of IPVanish.

7 Best VPNs for iPhone in 2024 (12)

Atlas VPN: Best for affordability

Atlas VPN is another viable VPN option for iPhone users. With Atlas, users can use the free version with limited features or get the paid version to unlock premium features. Some of the key features that might interest users include ease of use, unlimited bandwidth and device connections, use of AES-256 encryption, data breach monitor and ad blocker functionality. With the paid version, users can have access to 1,000 servers and global content access to geo-restricted streaming channels. In addition, there is also SafeSwap server functionality, which allows users to connect to the internet from several IP addresses at a time.

7 Best VPNs for iPhone in 2024 (13)

Why we chose Atlas

We chose Atlas VPN because it offers a balance of affordability and functionality, making it a good choice for users who want a reliable VPN without breaking the bank.

Pricing

Atlas pricing comes in one-month, one-year and three-year plans, all with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • Monthly plan: Starts at $11.99/month.
  • One-year plan: Starts at $4.08/month.
  • Three-year plan: Starts at $1.83/month.

Features

  • Malware blocker support.
  • SafeSwap servers for flexible access to the internet from different IPs.
  • Uses WireGuard protocol.
  • SafeBrowse and Data Breach Monitor features.
  • Runs on iOS 14 and later.

Pros

  • Offers a free version.
  • Unlimited connection.
  • Affordable pricing.
  • Accepts simultaneous connection to unlimited devices.

Cons

  • Servers are available only in 42 countries, which is short of what other VPNs offer.
  • Only runs on iOS 14 or later versions.
  • Based in the United States, which is part of the Five Eyes Alliance.

Read our full review of Atlas VPN.

7 Best VPNs for iPhone in 2024 (14)

Proton VPN: Best for privacy-focused users

ProtonVPN is an open-source, no-logs VPN app offering various features for secure and private internet browsing. Notable features include Secure Core, which routes user traffic through multiple servers to protect the connection, and a NetShield Ad Blocker that shields users from trackers, illicit ads and malicious domains. In addition, ProtonVPN has unlimited bandwidth and a kill switch/always-on feature that automatically reconnects users to the VPN when the connection is lost. The VPN has over 1,900 servers across 65 countries worldwide and can connect to 10 devices simultaneously.

7 Best VPNs for iPhone in 2024 (15)

Why we chose ProtonVPN

We picked ProtonVPN for its standout privacy features, particularly Secure Core — which provides multi-server routing for enhanced security — and the NetShield Ad Blocker, which protects against trackers.

Pricing

Like most popular VPN vendors, ProtonVPN follows monthly, yearly and biennial pricing plans, with a 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans.

  • Monthly plan: Starts at $9.99/month.
  • One-year plan: Starts at $5.99/month.
  • Two-year plan: Starts at $4.99/month.

Features

  • Access to a vast network of servers.
  • It is an open-source application.
  • Supports up to 10 simultaneous connections.
  • DNS leak protection.
  • Offers over 1,900 servers across 65 countries.

Pros

  • Protected by Swiss privacy laws.
  • Automatic kill switch for instant reconnection when the connection is lost.
  • User-friendly interface for easy installation and usage.
  • Offers unlimited bandwidth.

Cons

  • Only available for iOS 14 and later versions.
  • Pricing may be on the higher side for some users.

Read our full review of ProtonVPN.

7 Best VPNs for iPhone in 2024 (16)

Private Internet Access: Best for customization

Private Internet Access is an open-source VPN that stands out among iPhone VPNs for its extensive customization options and competitive pricing. While not boasting the sleekest interface, its iOS app features a Connect button that allows for easy access to recently used servers. Right from the home screen, users can manage crucial settings like the kill switch, network auto-connect rules and even launch PIA’s secure browser, InBrowser, which is a separate app.

PIA further distinguishes itself with its granular control over security protocols and encryption settings. This means that users can tweak encryption and protocol strengths to align with their preferred risk profiles and desired level of anonymity.

PIA VPN is only compatible with iOS version 12.1 and higher.

Why we chose PIA

PIA made our list for its extensive customization options and granular control over security protocols, offering a highly customizable VPN experience for iOS users.

7 Best VPNs for iPhone in 2024 (17)

Pricing

PIA provides three different subscription plans.

  • One month: $11.95/month.
  • 1 year: $3.33/month.
  • 3 years: $2.03/month.

Features

  • Dedicated IP.
  • Supports various secure protocols, including OpenVPN, WireGuard and IKEv2.
  • No-logs policy.
  • Split tunneling.

Pros

  • Unlimited simultaneous connection.
  • Advanced customizable features.
  • Offers unlimited bandwidth, ensuring no data caps.
  • PIA MACE for blocking ads, trackers and malware.

Cons

  • Complex customization for beginners.
  • It’s headquartered in a 5-Eyes country.
  • No free version.

Read our full review of PIA.

How do I choose the best iPhone VPN?

When faced with many VPN options for your iPhone, there are several factors you should consider before picking a VPN provider.

Cost

One of the primary considerations when choosing a VPN service is cost. Compare the subscription plans and the features each plan covers. Also, run your cost comparison against what other VPN vendors offer. Similarly, you may need to check if the VPN offers a free trial period so you can easily test the software and determine whether it suits your needs before paying for the subscription. Some VPN providers offer a 30-day money back guarantee instead of a free trial.

Ease of use

You want to go with a VPN that offers sophisticated yet easy-to-use features. For instance, if you are the type who likes activating your apps using voice commands, you may want to check out NordVPN, as it offers compatibility with Siri. Another consideration here is the payment, installation and activation processes. You want to use an application that provides a seamless payment method and a straightforward installation and activation process.

Security

Security is paramount when it comes to VPN software. Look for VPNs with solid encryption protocols like OpenVPN or IKEv2, a strict no-logs policy and a kill switch that ensures your data remains secure even if the VPN connection drops. Also, consider whether the VPN provider undergoes independent security audits.

Performance evaluation

Evaluate the performance of the VPN software by considering factors such as server network size, connection speeds and server locations. A comprehensive server network with strategically placed servers can provide faster and more reliable connections.

Device-specific considerations

Some VPN applications may not be compatible with your iPhone or iOS version. From our list, you can see that while some are compatible with older iOS versions, others are compatible with iOS 12 and later versions. Therefore, you should consider your device’s iOS version and determine if your preferred VPN app is compatible.

Methodology

I focused on identifying VPN providers with solid security features, including strong encryption protocols and no-logs policies. My approach involved downloading each VPN on my iPhone 13 and iPad (10th generation) to assess their installation methods, user interface and customization features. I also tested for DNS leaks by running my connection through DNSleaktest and all passed the test. In addition to the above findings, I relied on user feedback on reputable review sites to supplement my review and gathered pricing details on each VPN website.

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7 Best VPNs for iPhone in 2024 (2024)

FAQs

Which VPN is the strongest on iPhone? ›

ExpressVPN is the best iPhone VPN I've tested, thanks to its excellent privacy, great content unblocking power, and streamlined apps that put the competition to shame. Tons of servers, reliable connections on both Wi-Fi and mobile data, plus excellent customer support make ExpressVPN perfect for iOS.

Does Apple recommend a VPN for iPhone? ›

Apple does not recommend the use of a VPN. Apple does not have a VPN of its own. Apple devices have the option of configuring a VPN directly on them. No app is necessary.

What is the most secure VPN app for iPhone? ›

The Best VPN for iPhone in 2024
  • Best in Privacy. NordVPN. 9.7 /10. Fast speeds on iPhones. ...
  • Best for Everyday Use. Surfshark. 9.5 /10. Installs on iPhone with the click of a button. ...
  • Best Value. Private Internet Access VPN. 9.4 /10. Highly rated App Store app. ...
  • Best User Experience. ExpressVPN. 9.1 /10. ...
  • Best Encryption. IPVanish. 9.3 /10.
Apr 3, 2024

Are iPhone VPNs worth it? ›

Should I Run a VPN on My iPhone or Android Smartphone? Yes, You Should! A VPN (virtual private network) is a service that provides a secure Internet connection by using private servers in remote locations. All data traveling between your computer, smartphone or tablet and the VPN server is securely encrypted.

Is there a totally free VPN for iPhone? ›

Proton VPN is another great free VPN for iPhones and iPads. It offers a user-friendly iOS app, provides you with unlimited data, and includes servers in three locations, including Japan, the Netherlands, and the US. Security and privacy.

What VPN does Apple use? ›

With the Personal VPN feature in macOS and iOS, your app can create and manage a VPN configuration that uses one of the built-in VPN protocols (IPsec or IKEv2).

What is the fastest free VPN for iPhone? ›

PrivadoVPN Free is not only the number one free VPN for iPhones but also the best free VPN overall, displacing the previous #1 Proton VPN, as it is one of the only services that can reliably unblock the entire suite of streaming services including Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer—others like ...

How do I add a free VPN to my iPhone? ›

Here's how to manually enable a VPN to work on your iPhone:
  1. Tap on your “Settings” app on the Home Screen of your iPhone.
  2. Choose “General.”
  3. Press “VPN.”
  4. Tap “Add VPN Configuration.”
  5. Press “Type” and pick the type of VPN protocol you're using. ...
  6. Type in a description, remote ID, and a server for the VPN.

How do I enable VPN on my iPhone? ›

Apple iPhone - Turn Virtual Private Network On / Off
  1. From a Home screen, navigate: Settings. General. . If unavailable, swipe left to access the App Library.
  2. VPN & Device Management. . If unavailable, tap. VPN. .
  3. VPN. then from the 'VPN Configurations' section, tap the. Status switch. to turn on or off .

What is the new VPN on iPhone? ›

A “VPN on an iPhone” means a virtual private network you use on your iPhone to securely connect to the internet. A VPN service routes your traffic via remote VPN servers, hiding your IP address, so neither your internet provider nor other third parties can snoop on your online activity.

Which is better NordVPN or ExpressVPN? ›

Bottom line. The good news is that you can't make a poor decision if you're choosing between ExpressVPN and NordVPN. Express scored an 8.8 in CNET's assessment and is our Editors' Choice for the best overall VPN. Nord scored an 8.6 and is one of the fastest, most secure and reliable options on the market.

Does VPN stop viruses on iPhone? ›

VPNs mask your IP address and your data while it's in transit, but they can't protect you from every online threat. Regardless if you're using VPNs on iPhones, Androids, or any other devices, you still need to practice good internet hygiene to stay safe online.

Should I leave my VPN on all the time on my phone? ›

Yes, you should leave your VPN on all the time. VPNs offer the best online security, so keeping it on will protect you against data leaks and cyberattacks, especially while you're using public Wi-Fi. It can also safeguard against intrusive snoopers such as ISPs or advertisers. Always use a VPN when you go online.

How to choose a VPN? ›

13 things to consider while choosing a VPN
  1. Security and privacy. ...
  2. Speed. ...
  3. Strong encryption. ...
  4. Easy setup and use. ...
  5. Simultaneous connections. ...
  6. Number of servers and their locations. ...
  7. Supported VPN protocols. ...
  8. Logging policy.
May 23, 2023

Why you don t need VPN? ›

Although VPNs can safeguard your data online, they don't provide blanket protection against cyberthreats. Unless your VPN provider offers additional cybersecurity software, you'll still be exposed to certain types of malware and trackers.

What is the strongest type of VPN? ›

In other words, OpenVPN is the most secure protocol. WireGuard uses state-of-the-art cryptography. It doesn't support AES encryption, but it substitutes it with ChaCha20. It's less complex, but still very secure.

What is the most powerful VPN app? ›

If you want the easiest, most powerful and most reliable mobile VPN available today, ExpressVPN is the choice for you – it really is that simple. But, if you're not happy with the service, every customer is covered by a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can get to grips with the service before you commit.

Which VPN is strongest? ›

The Best VPN Services of 2024
  • NordVPN - Best VPN for Privacy.
  • Surfshark - Best VPN for Security.
  • Hotspot Shield - Best VPN for Netflix.
  • Private Internet Access VPN - Best VPN for Windows.
  • Norton Secure VPN - Best VPN With Dynamic IP Addresses.
  • IPVanish - Best Customer Support.
  • ExpressVPN - Best Encryption.
7 days ago

What is the most strong VPN? ›

ExpressVPN. ExpressVPN is currently CNET's pick for the best VPN overall, scoring an 8.8/10 on our VPN rating scale. It's a veteran VPN provider that consistently demonstrates a strong commitment to privacy and transparency. It's also excellent for streaming and the easiest VPN app to use on any platform.

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