Best VPN Services for iPhone (Top Rated on iTunes App Store)

Best VPN for Apple iPhone – Your Guide to the Top iPhone VPNs

A VPN, or “virtual private network”, encrypts your online data to give you more privacy when you browse the internet. Think of it like a shield between the internet and your iOS devices – it helps to protect you from external threats on, say, unsecured private networks.

If you have an iPhone, you might be wondering which VPN will keep your device safe. How do you choose when there are so many options on the market? Don’t worry, we’re making it easier for you. Below, we explain why your iPhone needs a VPN and how you can choose the best VPN for your Apple iPhone.

Do You Need a VPN on Your iPhone?

Technically, no, but you should have one – here’s why.

  • Enhanced security: Sure, Apple has a reputation for robust end-to-end security and encryption, but it’s not failproof. VPNs encrypt your data even further so that it’s much harder to decipher and exploit. 
  • Less restriction: Living in the US and want to check out UK Netflix? Premium VPNs for iPhones allow you to stream location-restricted content, opening up a whole host of entertainment platforms for your enjoyment.   
  • Safer browsing: A VPN masks your IP address, web history, and browsing habits, making it more challenging for hackers to obtain your information. This is especially helpful if you use public Wi-Fi networks or you travel frequently. 

Put simply, VPNs offer an unparalleled level of browsing security and privacy. As hackers become more sophisticated, VPNs have never been more important.

What Makes the Best iPhone VPN?

No two VPNs are exactly the same, so it’s wise to compare services before you buy. The best VPNs, though, offer the following benefits. 

  • Data encryption: The best iPhone VPNs use the highest level of security protocols and encryption techniques to ensure your privacy and protect you from malware or phishing scams.
  • Data minimization: Premium VPN companies collect as little information from you (such as IP addresses) as possible, and they certainly don’t share it with third parties. 
  • Multiple device support: Having support for simultaneous connections and devices means that multiple users can access a VPN at the same time.
  • Server variety: Nearby servers mean faster browsing speeds, whereas distant servers may help you access location-restricted content e.g. Amazon Prime in other regions.     
  • Value for money: The best VPN companies strive to offer fast, secure browsing and torrenting services for a competitive price.

VPN Providers

With so many iPhone VPN providers out there, choosing the right one for you can seem overwhelming. To help, we’ve sorted through the VPNs on offer to bring you our top three recommendations.

ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN devices

Features

  • Number of servers: More than 3,000
  • Speeds: Unlimited
  • Server locations: 160 in 94 countries
  • Maximum devices supported: 5
  • 24 live chat: Yes
  • 30-day money-back guarantee: Yes

Pros/Cons

  • Fastest VPN out there
  • Strict no logs policy
  • 256-bit AES encryption
  • Few discounts
Visit ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is one of the best VPN apps available on all major operating systems. Launched in 2009 and based in the British Virgin Islands, ExpressVPN is one of the fastest VPNs available. With over 3000 high-speed servers around the globe, it’s an ideal choice whether you’re streaming, torrenting, or browsing. 

ExpressVPN security is impressive, too. It uses an AES 256-bit cipher for encryption – the highest level of iPhone encryption and (at least currently) unbreakable.  And like other VPNs, ExpressVPN works by changing the user’s IP address and encrypting internet traffic. Encryption obscures a user’s real location, thus allowing you to connect to different services you can’t otherwise access from your region. 

Want access to high VPN speeds? ExpressVPN delivers. With a wide range of servers across 94 countries and 145 cities around the world, users can easily find a nearby server to get the highest VPN speeds available.

If you want simultaneous connections, ExpressVPN makes it simple. This VPN offers up to five simultaneous connections, so  as an iPhone user, you can simultaneously use ExpressVPN on Linux, Windows, or Mac OS. There is a 30-day money-back guarantee available, too, so if you’re not happy within the first 30 days, you can get a refund. 

What about the cost? As premium VPNs go, ExpressVPN is reasonable but it’s not the cheapest option out there. The basic monthly package costs around $12.95 at the time of writing, though you can get a discount by purchasing longer subscriptions. Registration is easy as the service accepts payment methods like MasterCard, Visa, PayPal, American Express, and even Bitcoin. 

What’s more, ExpressVPN is simple to set up. Though this service can be set up manually on your iPhone’s VPN settings, the best way to get the full experience is to simply install the purpose-built app for iOS. The app is available on the App store as “ExpressVPN.” After the download, the user can then launch the app and follow the instructions to register and set up.

ExpressVPN also offers the option to choose your  VPN protocols. The “Automatic” option, though, selects the best VPN protocol available based on the network settings. There is also the “Kill Switch”, which is a network lock that blocks all internet traffic if the connection to the VPN service drops on your iPhone. This ensures your data remains encrypted and secure, with your real IP address kept safe. 

Is your data safe with ExpressVPN? The company takes privacy seriously. Though your web traffic is open to the company, it does not store information about your web activity. It does not store the contents and destinations of your data, your IP address, DNS queries, or personal information.

Finally, ExpressVPN offers a unique feature called split tunneling. When this is on, the user can choose which applications make use of the VPN tunnel, allowing access to local and foreign content. It also offers DNS leak protection on iPhones. Though ExpressVPN isn’t cheap compared to most VPNs, it provides an exciting combination of speed, privacy, and performance.

  • Pros: Fastest VPN out there; Strict no logs policy; 256-bit AES encryption;
  • Lowest price: $6.67

NordVPN

NordVPN devices

Features

  • Cryptocurrency accepted? Yes
  • Simultaneous connections: 6
  • Dedicated IP-addresses? Yes
  • Servers: 5342 in 58 countries

Pros/Cons

  • Lots of pricing options
  • Netflix support kept up to date
  • 256-bit AES encryption
  • Slow app
Visit NordVPN

Based in Panama, NordVPN is one of the most popular VPN services on the market. It has a network spanning over 5,100 servers in 61 countries and over 12 million customers use it for their VPN needs. The popularity is unsurprising, given the features on offer and the value for money. 

NordVPN has special categories for torrenting and streaming, and it has extra security features built in. It has 256-bit encryption and a combination of reliable VPN protocols for your peace of mind and protection. There is a NordVPN app available on the AppStore for iPhone users, with which you can connect to various servers across the world. Though the app is free, you have to pay to use the service, as with most other VPNs.

Is the cost prohibitive? No. Although NordVPN no longer comes with a free tier and there’s no free trial, it’s still reasonably priced. A 30-day subscription costs $11.99 on NordVPN, while the one year plan works out at $4.49 per month at the time of writing. Two-year plans are available for the equivalent of $2.99 a month, too. On an iPhone, the payment is handled through iTunes, though it is possible to sign up using different payment options. With one subscription, you can use the service on up to six devices simultaneously.

NordVPN has servers in a variety of locations including China, Russia, and certain African countries. You’ll also find a security feature, CyberSec, on the iPhone app, which includes DDoS protection, Ad blocking, and malicious website protection. Since the company operates under Panama’s jurisdiction, it has a no-logs policy because of the absence of data retention laws, which means your privacy is assured. The company only collects voluntary diagnostic data and app crash statistics, so it’s an ideal choice if you’re looking to share the minimum amount of information possible.

On the iPhone app, there is a big map on the main page, with pins pointing to all the NordVPN server locations across the world. The interface looks sophisticated and is quite easy to navigate. There is a quick-connect button you can tap, which will connect you to the nearest and fastest VPN server if you are in a rush, but you can choose a specific server. Just check out the List option that displays the server locations, including their specialty servers such as Onion (TOR), P2P, and Anti-DDoS.

These specialty servers are designed to connect you to the services you need, when you want them.  Though many VPNs are unable to access Netflix due to the Netflix proxy error, you can easily access the streaming service on your iPhone using NordVPN. It easily bypasses Netflix’s detection measures. The service works flawlessly with Netflix catalogs in the UK, US, Canada, Brazil, France, and Japan thanks to the proprietary SmartPlay DNS feature. There are also instructions and server suggestions on the iPhone app for other popular streams like BBC, Amazon Prime, and Hulu. 

If you’re looking for smooth and safe torrenting, NordVPN is a reliable choice. It has more than 4,600 servers in 46 countries dedicated to torrenting, and the P2P server on the VPN interface helps you torrent efficiently. There are some other great features, too, like LAN invisibility, DNS leak protection, Auto connect, and Special obfuscated servers. Overall, NordVPN offers excellent value for its price.

  • Pros: Lots of pricing options; Netflix support kept up to date; 256-bit AES encryption;
  • Lowest price: $3.71

Surfshark

Surfshark devices

Features

  • Free trial? Yes
  • Simultaneous connections: Unlimited
  • Ad blocking? Yes
  • Servers: 1000+ in 61 countries

Pros/Cons

  • No footprints
  • Allows torrenting
  • 256-bit AES encryption
  • Not the fastest
Try Surfshark

Surfshark is a fast-growing VPN service with over 1000 servers in 61 countries. It is one of the cheapest VPN apps for iPhones, with plans starting at just $2.49 per month at the time of writing. For the price, there’s a lot on offer, too. For one thing, there’s no restriction on simultaneous devices – you can connect as many as you like. This is a clear advantage over other VPNs which have caps of five or six devices. 

One of Surfshark’s most impressive features is the CleanWeb. CleanWeb blocks phishing attempts, malware, and intrusive ads, and it helps to conserve mobile data and improve browsing speeds on your iPhone. There’s a strict no-log policy, too, so Surfshark does not keep records of your online activity. 

Surfshark pricing is fair although it’s not cheap. Monthly plans work out at $12.95 per month at the time of writing, but for the best value, you can opt for a longer plan – two-year plans work out at $2.49 per month. There is also a 30-day money-back guarantee that ensures you can change your plan or cancel the service at any time. 

Surfshark is simple to use and configure. There is a quick connect option available, which is then followed by the “Add VPN Configuration” option. Once this has been clicked, you can enter your device password. The interface is straightforward to navigate and interactive. Surfshark is mainly divided into four tabs: Virtual, Physical, P2P, and MultiHop – a unique feature. 

With MultiHop, you can connect your iPhone or any device to multiple countries. This increases the connection speed while protecting your privacy. This VPN also has another layer of security known as the Camouflage mode, or Obfuscation. Camouflage mode scrambles your digital data so you’re even more difficult to trace, giving you greater privacy online.  On the Surfshark homepage, it is clearly stated that the VPN does not store browsing, downloading or purchasing history; Outgoing and incoming IP addresses; Bandwidth; Network traffic; the VPN servers used, and connection timestamps. The app only stores the billing information and the email ID.

Want to stream Netflix? Surfshark can help. It works with Netflix catalogs in the United States, Canada, Germany, Japan, Italy, the Netherlands, South Korea, the United Kingdom, and India, so there’s a huge choice available. It also supports streaming on Amazon Video and BBC iPlayer. Additionally, Surfhark is compatible with torrent software such as uTorrent and BitTorrent. Though the default VPN protocol is the IKEv2, users can switch to OpenVPN at any time. The NoBorders option, which is activated by default, bypasses any geographical restrictions you can encounter while surfing the internet.

Surfshark has not experienced any security breach in the past and there are no security scandals at the time of writing. All in all, it’s one of the safest and most reliable VPN apps you can use on your iPhone.

  • Pros: No footprints; Allows torrenting; 256-bit AES encryption;
  • Lowest Price: $2.49

PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN devices

Features

  • Killswitch Yes
  • iOS App Yes
  • Data logging No

Pros/Cons

  • Servers in 63 countries
  • 30-day money-back guarantee
  • 2048-bit Encryption With AES-256
  • App can seem complicated
Visit PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN is a modest VPN provider with 100+ servers in 63 countries. These servers are quick and powerful and deliver content without the slightest hitch. In addition, you will be glad to know that PrivateVPN has compatible apps for iOS devices. Hence, device compatibility will be the least of your concern when you use this VPN service.

This provider boasts with the fact that it has never had even a single data breach since inception. It is easy to believe this assertion considering the different security apparatus PrivateVPN employs. It makes use of the 2048-bit encryption with AES-256. iPhone users get to choose from either the OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP, IKEv2, and IPSec security protocols. Furthermore, the provider comes fitted with a kill switch and further prevents IPV6 leak. When you combine this VPN with the security features already available on your iPhone, you will become virtually invincible.

PrivateVPN enumerates simple steps users can take to get the service up and running. First, the user downloads the PrivateVPN app for iOS devices from the app store, installs, and logs in. Then, they choose a VPN server from any location of choice to get things started off. You can fully take advantage of the provider’s always available customer support team if you run into any challenge.

  • Pros: Servers in 63 countries; 30-day money-back guarantee; 2048-bit Encryption With AES-256;
  • Lowest price: €2.04

Editor’s Choice: Best VPN for Apple iPhone

To choose our top iPhone VPNs, we considered which VPNs provided the most reliable, safe, and comprehensive service for a reasonable price. So, which VPN should you choose? It all depends on what you’re looking for from your service, but here’s a summary of our recommendations.

  • For those looking for a high level of data encryption and the fastest data speeds, ExpressVPN is a reliable option.
  • If you’re into torrenting and you’re looking for a wide range of servers to ensure you get the best connection speeds, NordVPN could be the best VPN for you.
  • Surfshark is ideal if you’re looking for unlimited simultaneous connections, enhanced privacy, and improved browsing speeds, but it’s not the cheapest VPN on the market.

Our all-round winner? ExpressVPN is a good place to start if you’re searching for a VPN for your iPhone.

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Conclusion

For anyone who desires anonymity, unrestricted access to websites, and streaming services, the VPNs examined above performs all these functions and more. They have been subjected to a large number of tests and have been proven to be reliable. The apps have been created for iOS devices and will run smoothly after installation. It is then left to you to make a choice depending on your preferences. However, a stable internet connection is required to enjoy these services.

Related FAQs

How do I set up a VPN on my iPhone?

It’s simple to get started.

First, choose a VPN service and download the app from the Apple App Store. Open the app once it’s installed, create your personal account, and sign up for the service. Simply follow the onscreen instructions and you’re ready to go.

If you need to set up your VPN manually, though, here’s what to do.

  • Go to Settings > General > VPN > Add VPN Configuration.
  • Click Type, choose the VPN protocol you’re using, and provide the requested details.
  • Choose Manual or Auto depending on the server you want to use.
  • Press Done when finished.

To turn your VPN on when you wish to use it, go to Settings > General > VPN > On.

Can I be tracked while using a VPN?

It’s possible, yes.

VPNs are, of course, designed to conceal web data such as your browser history, IP address, and location. However, if you use free VPNs, there’s a chance that they could sell your data (such as your IP address and usage logs) to third parties. This is much less likely to be an issue if you use a paid VPN service.

What’s more, if your VPN disconnects while you’re browsing the web, you accept cookies onto your iPhone, or you accidentally download malware onto your device, you could still be tracked despite using a VPN.

What happens if I turn off VPN on my iPhone?

If you want to turn off your VPN, you can, but just be aware that you won’t be protected again until you turn it back on.

When you disconnect from a VPN, you lose the online safety and browsing privacy benefits that it offers. Your IP address, browsing history, and other digital data may be visible since this information is no longer scrambled or encrypted, and you won’t benefit from the same security on http websites.

How do I keep my iPhone VPN connection always on?

There’s no need to actually turn your VPN connection off, but here’s what else you can do.

You can use Apple’s VPN “On Demand” feature, which lets VPN-enabled devices automatically connect to VPNs when they’re on, for example, a Wi-Fi network. Or, to keep an iPhone VPN connection on permanently, you’ll need to use the “Always On” feature. This requires entering device supervision mode and means the VPN stays on (even if you reboot the device) unless you take steps to turn it off.

Will my VPN subscription also work on iPad, Mac, and other devices?

Sure. If you choose a VPN that allows simultaneous connections, your subscription will work on your other devices at the same time.

How can I connect multiple iOS devices to the VPN?

It’s easy to connect multiple iOS devices. So long as you’re using a VPN that offers simultaneous connections, you can add other devices to the network (up to the maximum amount e.g. five devices).

Can you still use AirDrop with a VPN on iPhone?

You can use AirDrop on iPhones with VPN apps installed, but when the VPN is switched on, some users do report incompatibility issues. You may have more success if both devices are connected to a VPN.

As VPN apps progress, such technical issues should – hopefully – fade away.

Does using a VPN slow down your mobile connection?

Technically it can. Using a VPN means your internet traffic moves through another server, and so you may notice a small drop in connection speeds – especially if your VPN is not properly configured.

If you use a premium VPN like the ones we have recommended, chances are you won’t notice much – if any – change in browsing speeds.

Are there any free VPN apps for iPhone?

If you’re looking for free VPN apps, you’re in luck – they do exist. Proton VPN offers a free tier with no speed or data limits, although you’re restricted to one connection and only three server locations. For more server options you could try Windscribe, but there’s a 10GB data limit.

Should you use a free VPN? It comes down to personal choice. Sure, free VPNs seem attractive, but you could lose out on safety or performance features, so bear this in mind before trying a free iPhone VPN.

Do I really need a VPN to improve my iPhone’s security?

Yes. iOS devices are, no doubt, one of the most secure phones you will find. However, you still are vulnerable when you go online. The internet is a war zone, and iOS users are no different from users of other phone types. Hence, using a VPN improves your security. It encrypts your data, making sure that third parties are unable to interfere with your traffic.

Does using a VPN on an iPhone reduce my internet speed?

Using a VPN on your iPhone might reduce your internet speed. This is because it takes the VPN provider a couple of seconds longer to route your traffic through its servers. However, premium VPN providers, like the ones discussed above, limit the impact of the speed gap.

Is it advisable to use a free VPN provider for iPhone?

The short answer is No. Free VPN providers will not provide the amazing features you will only find on paid VPN services.

What other benefits do you get when using a VPN for iPhone?

Apart from security, a VPN serves other purposes. For one, it helps bypass geo-restrictions on platforms such as Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. It improves your anonymity and is thus great for those in high-risk jobs, amongst other functions.