How to use a VPN on Android: Best VPNs for Android

Want to use a VPN on Android? The best VPNs for Android give you online privacy and security. They encrypt your internet connection to prevent local networks, ISPs, government agencies, and other unwanted eavesdroppers from tracking your web visits. They also bypass geographic blocks and network restrictions when you’re browsing on vacation or at work. So, in this article, we explain how to set up a VPN on Android devices.

The problem is that not all VPNs have custom Android apps, and even fewer have fast HD streaming servers. Many of the Android VPNs available in app stores like Google Play are risky. They have invasive privacy policies, unreliable apps, and a lack of important security features. But, in this guide, we’ve pinpointed reliable VPNs suitable for tablets and smartphones. They offer superb value for money and all the features you need to stay safe against hackers on public wifi.

In this article, we offer a step-by-step guide to setting up a VPN on Android, and we list the best VPNs for the job. Scroll down for detailed reviews of each provider, or start here with a quick summary of the top recommendations.

Best Android VPNs:

1. NordVPN: Top VPN for Android. With apps for all platforms, OpenVPN security, and hundreds of locations to pick from – this super-fast VPN is perfect for accessing Netflix and other streams. Plus, it has a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Surfshark: Best low-cost VPN for Android. Ideal if you want a fast VPN connection. Has servers in 100+ countries. Each subscriber gets unlimited connections, meaning you can share the VPN with all your friends and family.
3. IPVanish: A US-based VPN that is fast and secure. Works to bypass blocks at work or on vacation. US Servers work to watch Netflix and bypass black-out games. Has a no-logging policy and strong AES-256 encryption.
4. ExpressVPN: A highly trusted VPN that has servers in 100+ countries. Fast Android VPN app is great for streaming. Works with Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, and more. Comes with OpenVPN and its custom Lightway protocol for faster speeds.
5. CyberGhost: Excellent Android VPN for beginners. The app is easy to use and affordable. One of the fastest VPNs. Includes a VPN kill switch, and streaming-optimized servers listed inside the app. Consistently works with dozens of streaming services.
6. PureVPN: Fast and secure. This always-on VPN works with popular streaming services. It is ideal for bypassing blocks at work or on vacation. No logging policy, VPN kill switch, and a choice of protocols. Amazing value for money.
7. ProtonVPN: Best Android VPN for cloud security. ProtonVPN is a Swiss VPN company developed by ProtonMail. Port forwarding is available on its desktop apps, ideal for users who want a multi-purpose VPN for torrenting.

TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Basic) works perfectly for Android.

How to use a VPN on Android

Android VPNs enhance your online privacy by encrypting internet traffic and masking your device’s IP address. An Android VPN helps you to browse securely and bypass network blocks. It also lets you access geo-restricted content, such as Netflix US, on vacation or Reddit while at work.

We understand that VPNs can seem confusing at first. However, they are very easy to use. Below, we’ve provided step-by-step instructions on how to use an Android VPN

Android VPN setup guide:

1. Choose a reliable VPN for Android: We recommend NordVPN because it has an incredibly nimble and reliable Android VPN app. It is fast, secure, and works to unblock popular services all over the world. Alternatively, Surfshark is excellent and cheap. And IPVanish is perfect for getting an IP address across 19 US cities.
2. Subscribe to the VPN: Follow our links to implement a coupon code and get your VPN subscription at the best price. Longer plans offer bigger discounts – and they all come with a money-back guarantee.
3. Download the VPN app from Google Play. All the VPNs we recommend have custom Android VPN apps. This makes it extremely easy to install and use the VPN on an Android smartphone or tablet.
4. Install the VPN and launch it. You will be asked to log in using your details from the signup phase.
5. Choose a VPN server from the list and connect. You can choose a VPN server where you require an IP address. To bypass blocks at work or in school, use a server in your own country. To watch geographically restricted content, choose a VPN server in the country where it is available. For example, a UK server to access BBC iPlayer and a US server to access Hulu.
6. You’re ready to go! As soon as the VPN connects, your internet traffic is encrypted. You can now Browse the web securely or head to the site or service you wish to unblock, it should now be working perfectly.

If you have any trouble bypassing blocks with your VPN try these troubleshooting tips:

• Try using the service in your browser rather than the app.
• Log in using incognito mode because trackers and cookies left in your browser can cause conflicts.
• Clear your cookies and cache, then reload the page you’re trying to access.
• Connect to a different server in your chosen location.
• If all else fails, contact your VPN’s customer service for further help.

How we choose the best VPNs for Android

When selecting the best VPNs for Android in 2024, we conducted over 5,000 tests on more than 300 VPN services. The VPNs for Android in this guide have all been through that meticulous testing process, which looked specifically at the following criteria:

• Security and privacy features to protect your data on Android devices
• Speed and reliability for smooth streaming and gaming on Android
• The ability to access geo-restricted content like Netflix, Amazon, and Disney+
• An intuitive and easy-to-use interface for Android users
• Responsive customer support for troubleshooting
• Value for money, especially for Android-specific plans
• Compatibility with various devices, including mobile phones and tablets
• To learn more about how we test VPNs and the methodology behind our rankings, continue reading the full article.

You can read about our VPN testing methodology in more detail later on in this article, but first, let’s take a closer look at the VPNs that impressed us.

Best Android VPNs: at a glance

We’ve compared the most important features of the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for Android.

Best VPN services for Android

We’ve tested the top VPNs to find those that are best suited for Android users. Below, you’ll find the best VPN for Android smartphones and tablets. Although they are all exceptional, each VPN differs slightly. For this reason, we advise that you check each option carefully to get the right VPN for your needs.

Here are our reviews of the best VPNs for Android devices:

1. NordVPN

Nov 2024

NordVPN is our top choice Android VPN and the best choice for remote work and public WiFi security. Its Android VPN app provides excellent support for securing your data when connected to public wifi or working remotely. With servers in 140 locations, it’s easy to find a fast server for streaming Netflix, Hulu, and dozens of international platforms, ensuring smooth, buffer-free viewing.

Overview of features

• App support: Android, Windows, Mac, iOS, Linux, web browsers, and more
• Server locations: 140
• Countries covered: 111+
• Customer support: 24/7 email, live chat, knowledge base
• Simultaneous connections: 10
• Refund period: 30 days

Why NordVPN is ideal for Android users

NordVPN is extremely simple to set up. The VPN app lets you pick a server location in just a few taps. It reliably encrypts your connection and changes your IP address instantly. This makes it perfect for both beginners and more advanced users who want features like Multi-Hop or Tor over VPN.

Security and privacy

NordVPN has all the crucial security tools you need for Android online privacy. The app has a kill switch and an auto-connect feature. If your VPN connection drops, the kill switch prevents data leaks by blocking internet traffic. The split tunneling feature lets you select which apps run through the VPN and which don’t, making it easy to stream a foreign TV network while doing other tasks on your regular connection.

NordVPN has an impeccable reputation for privacy. The service has been independently audited by Deloitte, which means every facet of its service has been tested. Android users get OpenVPN with AES-256 encryption, which is perfect for keeping your browsing habits and sensitive data safe while browsing. We tested the VPN for IP leaks, DNS leaks, and WebRTC leaks and found none:

Finally, we carefully analyzed the privacy policy. It is extremely well written, GDPR compliant, and promises to keep no usage logs or connection logs. This means none of your Android activities are tracked or recorded.

Other key security features:

• Threat Protection: Shields your device from malware, blocks ads, and scans for malicious downloads.
• Dark Web Monitoring: Keeps tabs on whether your personal data is exposed on the dark web.
• Obfuscated Servers: Hide VPN traffic, making it ideal for accessing Hulu or other blocked content in restricted regions.
• SmartPlay: Simplifies unblocking Hulu, making it an effortless experience.

Performance and streaming

During our testing, NordVPN was highly reliable for streaming. We tested it with a dedicated test server with a Gigabit line and tracked it to have a top speed of 321 Mbps (average across 3 global locations).

I also performed home speed tests. These results show how the Android VPN performed on a Samsung Tablet using a normal home broadband setup. My average speed without the VPN on the day of testing was 41 Mbps. Here are the results:

• UK server: Download speed of 38.61 Mbps, reflecting a 5.83% decrease.
• US server: Download speed of 37.83 Mbps, reflecting a 7.73% decrease.
• Hong Kong server: Download speed of 38.41 Mbps, reflecting a 6.32% decrease.

Real-world results that dropped my speed by less than 8% on all servers tested are extremely impressive, making this a formidable option for streaming, making video calls on VoIP apps, and torrenting. With server options in 111+ countries and these speed results – NordVPN gives you plenty of streaming power.

One of the best things about NordVPN is that it provides a custom WireGuard protocol called NordLynx. This protocol offers incredible performance. We tested it to watch US Netflix on vacation in the UK, and as you can see, it worked great:

NordVPN also worked to access US services like Amazon Prime, Disney+, HBO Max, and  BBC iPlayer. This makes it one of the most versatile options for streaming and security.

Ease of use and Android VPN setup

While NordVPN’s Android app might feel slightly more complex compared to simpler options like ExpressVPN, the setup is straightforward, and most users will have no trouble getting started. Advanced settings are tucked away to prevent accidental misconfiguration, making it user-friendly while still offering plenty of customization for experienced users.

NordVPN supports Android Auto and split tunneling, which means you can use the VPN and your regular internet connection simultaneously. And you never have to worry about accidentally joining a dangerous public wifi hotspot on the fly: auto-connect has you covered.

Value for money

NordVPN offers a fantastic balance of features, speed, and value for anyone looking for an Android VPN. While not the absolute fastest or cheapest, it ranks as the best overall option for anybody in need of a solid VPN app for everyday use.

Subscribers get 3 months free with a 2-year plan, which costs just $2.99 per month. This makes it less than half the price of ExpressVPN, and it has more features than Surfshark – which makes it impressive value for money.

It’s packed with features, supports a wide range of devices, and provides superb accessing capabilities for streaming services like Hulu and Netflix. This makes it exceptionally hard to beat.

Ray Walsh’s NordVPN Android verdict

NordVPN is a fantastic Android VPN for users who want robust security and high performance without sacrificing speed. It provides smooth access to US and international streaming platforms and offers strong security on public Wi-Fi. In my opinion, it is perfect for both casual streaming and more advanced tasks like remote work. It isn’t the cheapest VPN on this list, but if you want the most solid all-rounder, I would recommend NordVPN over the others.

BEST ALL-ROUND ANDROID VPN:NordVPN is our number 1 choice VPN for Android. It’s a well-rounded VPN that outperforms most of the competition with the best combo of speed, features, security, and value for money. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full NordVPN review.

---

2. Surfshark

Surfshark is the best value Android VPN for Versatile security. It offers a comprehensive range of security features at a highly affordable price. It’s an excellent VPN for Android tablet and smartphone users who want to secure multiple devices without sacrificing privacy. With servers in 100+ countries, you can easily find a connection where you need it. This makes it convenient for streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer on vacation.

Overview of features

• App support: Android, Windows, Mac, iOS, Linux, web browsers, and more
• Server locations: 143
• Countries covered: 100
• Customer support: 24/7 email, live chat, knowledge hub
• Simultaneous connections: Unlimited
• Refund period: 30 days

Why Surfshark is ideal for Android users

Surfshark’s Android app is incredibly user-friendly. It offers a smooth experience for both novices and experienced users. Quick server selection and strong encryption ensure users maintain their privacy wherever they are.

Features like MultiHop and CleanWeb not only encrypt your traffic but also speed up page load times and save on mobile data plans. It also adds an extra layer of protection against ads and malware. And if you are often on the move, the auto-connect feature will save the day when using public wifi.

Security and privacy

Surfshark has been designed from the ground up to keep Android users safe online. The app has a kill switch to prevent data leaks if the VPN connection drops. CleanWeb blocks ads and trackers for a more secure browsing experience.

Surfshark’s Camouflage Mode and NoBorders help disguise your VPN traffic as regular internet traffic. This makes it suitable for anyone traveling to regions with strict internet blocks or surveillance. For example, it works great in China, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia (for example, to make VoIP calls.)

Surfshark’s privacy policy is straightforward. It guarantees no logging of personal data. The Android app uses AES-256 encryption with OpenVPN for top-tier security. And this VPN has completed a full third-party audit. It also uses diskless servers for added protection.

Our tests confirmed that Surfshark has no DNS, IP, or WebRTC leaks:

Other key security features:

• Antivirus: Protects against malware.
• CleanWeb: Blocks ads, trackers, and malware.
• No Borders: Masks VPN traffic for use in regions with restrictions.

Performance and streaming

Surfshark ranks among the fastest VPNs we’ve tested. During speed tests, Surfshark reached impressive rates of over 665 Mbps using WireGuard. These speeds provide smooth, buffer-free streaming, making it a reliable option for accessing Netflix, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer.

Speed tests with a standard broadband setup on an Android Samsung tablet also showed excellent results. My average internet speed without a VPN was 41 Mbps on the day of testing. Here are the speed drops I experienced while testing Surfshark:

• UK (London server): Download speed of 38.57 Mbps, representing a 5.93% decrease.
• US (New York server): Download speed of 33.59 Mbps, representing an 18.07% decrease.
• Hong Kong server: Download speed of 34.11 Mbps, representing a 16.80% decrease.

As you can see, despite having extremely fast top speeds, the real-world Android results were not quite as good as our top pick.

That said, Surfshark VPN still offers fantastic performance for streaming and making video calls, particularly considering the cost. It is possible that the app is a bit heavier, which is what is causing a slightly bigger drop in speed. This means that if you have a really powerful Android phone, you may get even better results.

We tested the UK Manchester server to watch BBC iPlayer on Android, and it worked without a hitch:

Ease of use and VPN setup

The Surfshark Android app features a simple and intuitive interface that is easy to set up. Advanced features like MultiHop are also easy to enable, ensuring users have no trouble getting started.

The app supports Android Auto and offers split tunneling. This allows users to decide which apps use the VPN connection. It provides flexibility for different activities, making Surfshark a versatile choice for Android devices.

Value for money

Surfshark represents mind-blowing value, especially for larger families or people with numerous devices. It is a budget-friendly VPN that packs a punch when it comes to features. With unlimited simultaneous connections, families can protect all their Android devices, whether at home, at work, or in school. Subscriptions start at just $1.99 per month for a basic 24-month plan. With an extra 4 months free!

Surfshark also offers special plans that combine antivirus, ad-blocking, and online personal data removal. If you want a plan that covers all your security bases, these definitely represent amazing value – so check them out.

Ray Walsh’s Surfshark Android verdict

Surfshark is an outstanding choice for Android users who need a budget-friendly VPN with a wide choice of features. Its security tools offer consistent and reliable performance, making it a well-rounded option. The cost-to-feature ratio is some of the best I have ever experienced, and the VPN kill switch worked fine for me (I restarted my router to simulate an internet cut, and my tablet would give me no internet until I reconnected to the VPN).

BEST VALUE ANDROID VPN:Surfshark offers unlimited device coverage, powerful features, and affordability, making it a leading choice for Android users. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full Surfshark review.

---

3. IPVanish

IPVanish is the best VPN for streaming and multi-device support. This US-based service offers excellent security for Android users. It comes with unlimited connections, making it ideal for families wanting to stream on multiple devices. IPVanish has more than 2,000 servers in 60 countries, and this includes servers in 18 cities – making it an awesome choice for bypassing blackout games on Android.

Overview of features:

• App support: Android, Windows, Mac, iOS, Linux, Amazon Fire Stick, Android TV, and more
• Server locations: 2,200+
• Countries covered: 60
• Customer support: 24/7 email, live chat, knowledge hub
• Simultaneous connections: Unlimited
• Refund period: 30 days

Why IPVanish is ideal for Android users

IPVanish is easy to set up on Android, with a simple interface that lets you pick a server and connect in seconds. The Android app includes features like a kill switch and split tunneling. This gives users control over which apps use the VPN.

Security and privacy

IPVanish uses AES-256 encryption to protect user data. Third-party audits have verified its no-logs policy and apps. We tested the kill switch, and it works perfectly to block traffic if the VPN connection fails for any reason.

IPVanish includes traffic scrambling using XOR. This makes OpenVPN look like HTTPS traffic, making it easier to bypass VPN blocks on networks that block ports associated with VPNs. However, this VPN does not work in China.

Other key security features:

• Kill Switch: Blocks internet traffic if the connection drops.
• Threat Protection: Blocks ads and malicious sites for safer browsing.
• Traffic Scrambling: Obfuscates VPN traffic to bypass ISP restrictions.

All leak tests came back negative. This means it is fully secure and prevents online tracking on Android devices.

Performance and streaming

IPVanish delivers strong speeds for HD streaming and gaming. Our server-based test revealed top speeds of 271 Mbps. This lets you watch shows in HD without buffering, even with multiple devices connected.

My home speed tests using an Android tablet on home broadband with a baseline speed of 41 Mbps also delivered useful results:

• UK (London server): Download speed of 36.76 Mbps, indicating a 10.34% decrease.
• US (New York server): Download speed of 37.11 Mbps, indicating a 9.49% decrease.
• Hong Kong server: Download speed of 31.89 Mbps, indicating a 22.22% decrease.

As you can see, the Hong Kong server was a bit sluggish. However, these results still provide ideal speeds for data-intensive tasks, so no complaints.

IPVanish has massively improved its ability to unlock popular streaming services. It works with Netflix, Prime Video, Hulu, and many other services. However, this VPN is better for streaming US platforms than those in more exotic locations, so it’s worth testing it on your chosen platform using the 30-day money-back guarantee.

Ease of use and VPN setup

The IPVanish Android app is easy to set up, offering features like auto-connect and split tunneling. The app interface is accessible with minimal configuration. IPVanish supports devices like Amazon Fire Stick and Android TV, making it versatile for streaming.

Value for money

IPVanish is a good value for households needing unlimited connections. The setup is straightforward, with apps available for many devices. This makes it easy to protect every gadget. Prices start at $2.19 per month on a two-year plan. This is remarkably cheap considering the features you get and its unlimited connection allowance.

Ray Walsh’s IPVanish Android verdict

IPVanish impressed me with its ease of use and reliable speeds. Unlimited connections are a bonus because you don’t have to worry about running out of connections. I let my kid sister catch up on a Canadian comedy called “Mr. D” on Netflix while I was using it to stream Mad Men – the VPN worked without a hitch,  I generally prefer a VPN that isn’t based in the US (gag order and NSA, cough cough) but I must admit that this VPN has a solid no logs policy that will suit most people.

BEST VPN FOR STREAMING:IPVanish is great for families, with unlimited device connections, strong speeds, and easy app setup. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full IPVanish review.

---

4. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is the best Android VPN for beginners and well worth considering if you are new to VPNs because of its simple interface and straightforward privacy features. Although it’s 72% more expensive than NordVPN, it offers a decent feature set and great unblocking capabilities for Android users. We found the VPN easy to set up, and it has robust security tools and better-than-average speed results.

Overview of features:

• App support: Android, Windows, Mac, iOS, Linux, web browsers, and more
• Server locations: 163
• Countries covered: 105
• Customer support: 24/7 email, live chat, knowledge hub
• Simultaneous connections: 8
• Refund period: 30 days

Why ExpressVPN is ideal for Android users

ExpressVPN’s Android app is sleek, easy to use, and ideal for anyone new to VPNs. The mobile app has features like a graph displaying the current IP address and time protection, as well as a Security Assistant that helps guide users through security checks. These thoughtful additions make it one of the most accessible VPN apps available.

Security and privacy

ExpressVPN has maintained a rock-solid reputation since 2009. That is a lengthy time for a VPN to maintain an unblemished record. The VPN prioritizes user privacy with robust AES-256 encryption and a strict no-logs policy. Its kill switch, called Network Lock, ensures all traffic is blocked if your Android connection drops. This ensures you never leak unprotected data to your ISP, local networks, or government snoops.

ExpressVPN also includes the Lightway protocol, designed for high speed and stability. Lightway is an open-source alternative to WireGuard that underscores ExpressVPN’s ability to keep innovating and improving its service for its users.

Another advantage is the fact that ExpressVPN’s OpenVPN implementation uses obfuscation by default. You can use OpenVPN to prevent ISPs from detecting VPN use, to get connected on networks that block ports associated with VPNs, and to bypass strict firewalls in countries like China, Qatar, Egypt, and the UAE.

Other key security features:

• Network Lock: A kill switch that prevents data leaks during unexpected connection drops.
• Built-in Ad Blocker: Protects against intrusive ads and enhances privacy.
• ExpressVPN Keys: Optional password manager for added security.

Performance and streaming

ExpressVPN’s latest speed test results make it the 5th fastest VPN on the market.  Our server-based tests using a Gigabit connection revealed top speeds of 261 Mbps, which is plenty of overhead for gaming and 4K streaming on home broadband.

To let you see how it performs on normal home broadband, we also tested it at home using an Android Samsung tablet and a 41 Mbps internet connection. You can see how Express affected my speeds below:

• UK server: Download speed of 36.39 Mbps, with an 11.24% decrease.
• US server: Download speed of 37.29 Mbps, with a 9.05% decrease.
• Hong Kong server: Download speed of 37.88 Mbps, with a 7.61% decrease.

These speeds reveal superb consistency across all locations. There is no doubt that this makes it a solid Android VPN for gaming, watching YouTube at work, or whatever you need to do.

In our tests, the VPN worked with BBC iPlayer, Netflix US, Hulu, Prime Video, Disney Plus, and other services in Germany (Zattoo, Joyn), France (My Canal Plus), Australia (Kayo), and Canada (Crave). I even managed to access UFC while using in-flight WiFi using this VPN on my Android tablet (without it, all I got was buffering due to the airlines throttling).

Ease of use and VPN setup

ExpressVPN’s Android app is hard to beat if you want simplicity. The app avoids clutter and makes it easy to find all the settings. This straightforward interface helps users to get started quickly. The desktop app, while slightly dated in appearance, remains simple and effective for getting privacy and bypassing blocks.

The mobile app has plenty of features despite being easy to use, too: auto-connect, a graph for monitoring IP changes, and a Security Assistant.

Value for money

ExpressVPN’s biggest caveat is the cost. It is fairly expensive. However, if you can afford it, you will get top-tier performance and excellent ease of use. We particularly love its (now open-source) proprietary Lightway protocol, which is designed to give you lightning-fast connections and improved stability. Ultimately, if you value security and simplicity, the extra cost might be worthwhile.

ExpressVPN comes with a built-in ad blocker and an optional password manager called ExpressVPN Keys. These additions, help to make it better value for money despite the slightly higher costs involved. The cheapest option is $8.32 per month (annual plan).

Ray Walsh’s ExpressVPN Android verdict

ExpressVPN is an impressive service, particularly for users new to VPNs. The setup was seamless, and I found the apps intuitive and easy to navigate. OpenVPN speeds were very impressive, and I had no issues streaming. The kill switch (Network Lock) worked reliably, and the no-logs policy gave me confidence in my privacy. Overall, I think ExpressVPN is a worthwhile investment for anybody who can afford it. My biggest gripe? It costs more than our top picks, but it doesn’t do anything that our top picks can’t do for less.

BEST VPN FOR BEGINNERS:ExpressVPN combines ease of use, strong security, and impressive speeds, making it good for Android users who are new to VPNs. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee to try it yourself on any tablet or smartphone.

Read our full ExpressVPN review.

---

5. CyberGhost

CyberGhost is a cheap and cheerful VPN with fast performance. It checks every box for security, privacy, and ease of use. It’s extremely newcomer-friendly, versatile, and delivers impressive speeds. With over 10,000 servers in 100+ countries, CyberGhost provides speedy, low-latency connections no matter where you are. Users can connect up to seven devices at a time, making it convenient for families or small groups.

Streaming VPN servers

CyberGhost’s task-specific servers make it easy to pick the one you need. You can pick a server for torrenting, browsing securely, or accessing specific streaming services like Netflix and Hulu. It also offers a Smart DNS feature for accessing US services more easily on your Android device.

Privacy and security

CyberGhost ensures privacy with a zero-logs policy and robust security tools, including AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, and leak protection. The app also supports perfect forward secrecy. Plus, all our leak tests came back negative, so this VPN is completely secure:

The recent addition of the WireGuard protocol means that this VPN is in the top echelon of VPNs when it comes to speeds. Our server tests revealed top speeds of 226 Mbps.

CyberGhost imposes no speed or bandwidth limits, ensuring uninterrupted browsing at all times. Prices start at $2.29 per month on a three-year plan, which makes it a spectacular option for anybody on a tighter budget.

Ray Walsh’s CyberGhost Android verdict

CyberGhost is a solid choice for beginners. It offers fast speeds, user-friendly apps, and strong privacy features. I found the task-specific servers especially helpful, as they made streaming and torrenting hassle-free. It may lack some advanced features, but many home users don’t need or use those features and prefer to save a few extra dollars. If that’s you, I can recommend CyberGhost; it’s a solid choice.

EASY TO USE:CyberGhost is fast, secure, and easy to use, with a 45-day money-back guarantee—perfect for those getting started with VPNs.

Read our full CyberGhost review.

---

6. PureVPN

PureVPN is a reliable and cost-effective VPN for streaming and privacy. This is a low-cost VPN that performs well above its pay grade. It has 6,000+ servers in 65+ countries, including 13 US cities. The server list shows ping, making it easy to choose the best connection for your needs. You can pick from dedicated servers for streaming by clicking on Shortcuts:

PureVPN prioritizes privacy with a strict no-logs policy that has been independently audited, adding credibility to its privacy claims. The VPN uses AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption, ensuring a secure connection. It also features a tracker blocker, a customizable kill switch, split tunneling, and obfuscation for bypassing VPN blocks in restrictive regions.

Android VPN speeds

PureVPN provides decent speeds for streaming, averaging around 35 Mbps on its US servers (tested on home broadband with a 41 Mbps connection).

I tested it to watch US streaming services like BBC iPlayer, Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu with no issues. It also worked with an enormous number of international services. The apps are user-friendly and available for all major platforms, featuring a consistent interface across Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Ray Walsh’s PureVPN Android verdict

PureVPN is a great budget option that I always enjoy using for streaming and browsing. While not the fastest or most feature-packed, it is exceptional for the cost. If you’re looking for reliable privacy, PureVPN always gets the job done. I can recommend it for bypassing blocks at work or on campus without anybody finding out.

GOOD VALUE:PureVPN offers a simple design perfect for beginners. Impressive ability to access streaming platforms. Port forwarding is available, but you have to pay extra. Comes with a 31-day money-back guarantee to test its features.

Read our full PureVPN review.

---

7. Proton VPN

Proton VPN is an Android VPN with advanced security and customization for privacy advocates. This Swiss service was developed by the team behind Proton Mail. It has a fully audited no-logs policy and offers advanced privacy features that are bolstered by Switzerland’s consumer privacy regulations. It is perfect for Android users who prioritize privacy and who want advanced features such as port forwarding for torrenting (desktop app only).

Android privacy and security features

The VPN offers many advanced features and has apps for all popular devices. It uses AES-256 encryption, supports MultiHop connections, and provides Tor over VPN for extra anonymity. Proton VPN also includes NetShield to block ads, trackers, and malware, which enhances your Android browsing experience and helps save mobile data.

Proton VPN also hosts Secure Core servers in hardened locations, like underground bunkers, for extra protection. However, these servers can slow traffic but are ideal for maximum security. Proton VPN follows a strict no-logs policy, verified by audits. It supports obfuscation to disguise VPN traffic.

We tested the VPN for leaks on Android and were happy to find it has a fully clean bill of health:

Android speeds and streaming

Proton VPN delivers solid speeds on Android devices, with US servers performing best. That said, network speeds can vary across locations, so it is worth using the green server load information to choose a server that has fewer users, as this will keep things running faster.

In our tests, Proton VPN’s streaming servers (highlighted with a triangular play button) worked to access popular services like Netflix US, Hulu, and HBO Max.

Ray Walsh’s ProtonVPN Android verdict

Proton VPN is ideal for Android users who want a multi-device solution with many advanced features. When I tested the VPN, I noticed that speeds vary across its network, so consistency can be a problem. However, its privacy features are top notch, and because it offers port forwarding at no extra cost, this is a go-to VPN for anybody who likes to torrent. Plus, I do like the fact that it comes from a highly reputable developer and that its apps are open-source!

ADVANCED FEATURES:Proton VPN offers top-tier privacy features and customization options, making it perfect for privacy-focused users. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of Proton VPN.

---

Methodology: How We Test the Best Android VPNs

We test each Android VPN using a precise method that leverages practical tests. We analyze the apps and use various Android features under normal daily usage, such as streaming, browsing, and making video calls. Our research carefully checks each VPN’s speed, security, privacy, and usability on Android devices.

Privacy

We place a high priority on privacy. Our team verifies the no logging claims made by each VPN, and we assess whether the service has undergone third-party audits of apps to validate these claims. VPNs based in privacy-friendly jurisdictions get extra points. We also check whether the VPN earned IOxT certification for its Android apps. Whether the VPN has been audited and whether it has diskless servers are factors that contribute to better privacy protection.

Android security

Android VPN users require robust data protection above all else. We assess each VPN’s security by checking encryption strength, leak prevention, and VPN protocols. We run tests to check the efficacy of the kill switch and VPN tunnel by using leak tests. Only VPNs that protect against accidental data exposure make it onto our list.

Android speed

We perform speed tests on Android devices, connecting to servers worldwide to assess overall performance. Speed is vital for Android users wanting to watch HD content or play games like PUBG and Fortnite on their mobile devices. We run tests to check the VPN’s international server network. Those that deliver optimal speeds and consistent performance make it onto our list above those that suffer from inconsistency. Android Streaming and Geo-Access

Many Android users rely on VPNs to unlock region-locked content. We test each VPN’s ability to access popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and others. This includes testing the Android app’s ability to bypass restrictions and reliably connect to servers optimized for streaming.

Usability and features

The best Android VPNs should have well-designed apps that are easy to use. We evaluate each app’s design, responsiveness, and feature availability, including split tunneling and multi-hop options. We also assess if features like port forwarding are available and easy to use. VPNs that offer intuitive apps and setup guides get extra points.

Certification and support

In addition to security and privacy, we value apps that have earned IOxT certification. As well as VPNs that have completed full third-party audits. Services like NordVPN and ExpressVPN place higher on our list because they have achieved ioXt certification for their Android apps. While all of our top 3 VPNs have had full independent audits.

We also assess customer support by contacting VPN support teams through live chat, email, and ticket systems, focusing on response speed and accuracy. Android users need accessible support, and the quality of assistance directly impacts our rankings.

Our methodology allows us to precisely rate VPNs and order our recommendations based on concrete metrics. The best VPNs excel in privacy, security, performance, and usability for Android devices.

Why use a VPN on Android?

Android users are at risk of tracking and data interception every time they connect to the internet. These dangers are magnified if you ever use public wifi hotspots. A VPN encrypts your connection, making it safe to use the internet. It prevents your data from being intercepted by hackers and stops your ISP and local networks from being able to see every website you visit.

Android VPNs also allow you to bypass geo-restrictions and censorship. Whether you’re at work, at school, or traveling, a VPN for Android can help you access content that might otherwise be blocked—including popular apps and services like YouTube, Netflix, Reddit, Twitch, and Discord.

A good Android VPN is also essential for gamers wanting to access regional servers, ensuring smooth gameplay with minimal lag.

Free VPNs for Android

If you can’t afford a paid VPN service, there are only a few free VPNs that you can use reliably. ProtonVPN, Windscribe, and Tunnelbear are reputable premium VPN companies that have a basic free plan. They offer this free version to advertise their service on a limited basis.

The important thing to remember is this free plan is basic. It has fewer server locations to pick from and implements monthly usage caps (so you can only use it a little each month). However, they use strong encryption and a no-logs policy, so when you use these free versions, you are assured of robust online privacy.

You can find other free VPNs for Android on app stores like Google Play and Samsumg apps. However, we must advise against using these. Dozens of so-called ‘free VPNs’ do not even provide basic privacy. These VPNs have dangerous policies that allow them to track everything you do. They then sell this data to make a profit.

Studies have also revealed that free VPNs lack encryption and suffer from leaks. So, using these VPNs will not stop local networks or ISPs from tracking what you are doing. This makes these VPNs completely useless.

Free VPNs are slow, overcrowded, and pose serious privacy risks. So please be extremely careful when looking for a free VPN, and stick to our recommended options only, as these are reputable and will not put you at risk.

Using a VPN with Android – FAQs