5 Best VPNs for WhatsApp in 2024 (Unblock WhatsApp Calling)

5 Best VPNs for WhatsApp (Unblock WhatsApp Calling)

WhatsApp is arguably the most popular social media app globally. The numbers confirm this assertion too. Launched in 2009, at the moment, it caters to more than 2 billion people. In fact, except for the United States, WhatsApp is the leading social media app in most Western countries. It also doubles as the most popular in 169 countries. 

However, despite its huge subscribership, WhatsApp is not allowed in some countries. This is largely because of the security features the platform employs. Users enjoy end-to-end encryption on the service. Simply put, data transmitted from sender to receiver remains encrypted during transit. Unsurprisingly, some countries are unhappy with such situations. If you are in any of such WhatsApp-blacklisted countries, using a VPN with the app is your best bet. 

In addition, using a VPN with WhatsApp also offers you some other benefits. In this discussion, we show you some of the best VPN providers you can consider for WhatsApp.

After a careful search, here are our top 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 sits atop our recommendation list for obvious reasons. It has been touted to be every user’s dream. If you are looking to find a VPN for use with WhatsApp, you can scarcely do better than ExpressVPN.

This provider has a fleet of 3000+ servers in 160 locations and 94 countries. Its servers are super-fast, and reliable. One benefit you get with its extensive fleet is that you can connect to virtually any location you want to access WhatsApp. Also, due to its great speed, every activity on the platform is without lags or buffering.

The provider does not stop there. It equips its apps with security features that are to die for. For one, it makes use of the standard AES 256-bit encryption model. It allows for split tunneling, a situation where a user can split their traffic between the VPN’s protection and its normal internet. It also has a network kill switch that automatically comes on if there is a momentary glitch. Private DNS and a speed test feature are some of the other benefits you get with this provider.

ExpressVPN offers 3 subscription packages. The monthly one goes for $12.95 per month. It has a 30-day risk-free money-back window. It allows 5 simultaneous connections to one account.

  • 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

Closely trailing behind ExpressVPN is NordVPN. With more than 5000 servers in 59 countries, this provider is one of the high-profile VPN providers. It lives up to its name and hence enables users to unblock WhatsApp regardless of their location.

This provider is excellent for unblocking streaming platforms, too. It is a great option for unblocking Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, Spotify, BBC iPlayer, Deezer, to mention a few. It even gets around the Great Firewall of China. If you are traveling to that location for a bit, you can rest assured that you’ll still be able to communicate via WhatsApp. In the same vein, it does well when it comes to torrenting and P2P file sharing. NordVPN offers a secure and trusted route to going about that activity.

Another area this provider shines is in security. Away from the regular AES 256-bit encryption model and security protocols, NordVPN has other excellent security features. One of such is the provision of obfuscated servers for users in high-risk areas. It also provides dedicated IP addresses for users interested in such. Finally, it sports a kill switch and supports the Onion router.

With 6 simultaneous connections, NordVPN is slightly above the industry average. It has apps for the major device types, is compatible with routers, and even has router extensions for Chrome and Mozilla Firefox.

  • 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 new to the VPN industry but is already making big moves. It is one of the few providers that allow an unlimited number of connections to one account. Thus, users can pool resources together, hop on one plan and stay protected the whole time. Specifically for use with WhatsApp, Surfshark is a relatively inexpensive option. For this we highly recommend it.

This provider recently upped its server count to about 3200. Users are assured of unimpeached protection while on the service. The provider uses the AES 256-bit encryption model on its servers. Its CleanWeb feature eliminates ads. Its Whitelister function works the same way as a regular split tunneling option, and its Camouflage mode ensures that users in high-risk areas are also protected. Other perks include the NoBorders feature and Private DNS & leak protection.

This provider insists that it maintains a strict no-logs policy. Hence, while using WhatsApp under its coverage, no record of your data will be saved on its database. The provider also allows for subscription with cryptocurrencies, a great option for privacy. It would interest you to know that this provider has been audited and found clean.

As earlier mentioned, Surfshark allows an unlimited number of simultaneous connections. It is also compatible with a wide range of devices. Its costliest subscription plan goes for $12. 95 per month, while its 6 months plan goes for $6.59 per month.

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

HideMyAss

HideMyAss devices

Features

  • Speeds: 20 Gbps
  • Money-back guarantee: Yes
  • Activity logs? No
  • Locations: 190+ countries

Pros/Cons

  • Best server database on the market
  • No-logs and kill switch policy
  • Multiple device protection
  • Expensive short term plan
Visit HideMyAss

HideMyAss (HMA) has a global server coverage of 1100 servers in 290 locations. While its server count leaves a little to be desired, its location spread is actually quite commendable. It also has decent security features, above-average streaming and downloading speed, amongst others. For users on a low budget looking for a good-enough VPN provider for use with WhatsApp, HMA is a sure bet.

This provider carries out all of the regular activities you’d need a VPN for. Thus, it combats and defeats geo-restrictions. This assures you that it would not fail to unblock WhatsApp for you, too. More so, it is great for torrenting and P2P file sharing. It has optimized servers that are dedicated solely to this task. Only a handful of providers have this option.

This VPN provider takes security and privacy seriously. It uses the standard AES 256-bit encryption system on all of its servers. In addition, it provides a kill switch, allows for IP shuffling and split tunneling, and guards against DNS leaks.

You can connect 5 devices to one HMA account. The provider is compatible with Android, Windows, Mac, and iOS devices. It operates the standard 30-day money-back option. You can also install the VPN on a router for broader coverage.

  • Pros: Best server database on the market; No-logs and kill switch policy; Multiple device protection;
  • Lowest price $2.99

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 provider that is trustworthy. It has just above 100 servers in 63 countries. However, it covers not just the popular VPN locations but also has servers in middle eastern countries, including China. This is important because these are some of the regions where geo-blocks and restrictions are at the highest. Thus, if you are looking to unblock WhatsApp, PrivateVPN will serve you just fine.

Beyond unblocking WhatsApp, PrivateVPN is great for streaming content. It has great speed, coupled with an unrestricted data bandwidth for users. It also unblocks restricted platforms such as Netflix or Hulu. This provider assures you of uninhibited streaming and downloading when you use its services. Even more remarkably, PrivateVPN is great for torrenting and P2P file sharing. This feature is, unfortunately, only available when you connect to its UK servers.

This provider makes use of 2048-bit encryption. Some of the protocols it supports include IPSec, OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP, and IKEv2. It maintains a strict no-logs policy. It is easy to believe this assertion because the VPN provider has its headquarters in Switzerland. The Swedish authorities are relatively friendly when it comes to data privacy. Since they aren’t part of any data-sharing alliance, they’ll not put pressure on the providers to share your data.

You get unique IP addresses for 6 devices you connect to one account. There is no reduction of service for any of the devices you connect to the VPN. PrivateVPN operates a 30-day money-back policy. This gives you room to try out the VPN for WhatsApp and request a refund if unsatisfied with the level of service.

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

ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN devices

Features

  • P2P support? Yes
  • 30-day money-back guarantee? Yes
  • Country of origin? Switzerland
  • Servers: 600+ in over 40 countries
  • Simultaneous devices: 5

Pros/Cons

  • Professional support
  • Modern interface and apps
  • AES-256 encryption
  • Lesser known provider
Try ProtonVPN

Established in 2017, ProtonVPN is the go-to service provider for users interested in security and privacy. It is a sister app to ProtonMail, the foremost super-secure emailing app. Thus, you can expect the same level of security consciousness with this provider. You can count on this provider to bypass the blocks in your country, allowing you to use WhatsApp regardless of your location.

This provider has 1200 servers in 55 countries. These servers are super-fast and safe. The provider routes users’ traffic through multiple servers through its Securecore feature. This heightens the security of the individual. Its Forward Secrecy function would prevent the future leak of your Whatsapp data even if a breach occurred in the future. It offers both IKEv2/IPSec and OpenVPN protocols.

If speed is of importance to you, ProtonVPN also comes through. Some malicious Internet Service Providers may deliberately throttle your browsing speed. This is especially if you carry out activities like international Whatsapp calls with the provider. With ProtonVPN, you will have no such problems.

ProtonVPN is noted for having one of the best totally free versions. You can use the service for as long as you want. However, to access the full gamut of features it has, you may want to get on any of its paid offers. There are the Basic, Plus, Visionary, and offers. Any will give you the excellent experience you seek.

For each paid subscription, you can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously. This provider has apps for the major device options. It has an easy setup process and a user-friendly interface. If you run into any challenges, there is a reliable customer care system to address all concerns.

  • Pros: Professional support; Modern interface and apps; AES-256 encryption;
  • Lowest price: €4

CyberGhost

CyberGhost devices

Features

  • Connected devices at once: 7
  • Automatic kill switch? Yes
  • One click connect: Yes
  • Servers: 5900 worldwide

Pros/Cons

  • No logs policy
  • 24/7 live chat
  • Apps for mobile devices and routers
  • No free option
Try CyberGhost

CyberGhost is a 15-year veteran with awesome features. You can safely infer that its longevity in the industry is due to its commitment to delivering optimum service to users. For use with WhatsApp, CyberGhost offers a safe and reliable system.

This provider has a global server count of 7000 servers in 91 countries. The provider does not dedicate some servers specifically for WhatsApp. This is because you get water-tight protection regardless of the server you connect to. Hence, to bypass the blocks on WhatsApp in your home country, you just connect to a compatible server in any location. Your government, or anyone else monitoring you, will be unaware of your actions while online. This protects you from blocks.

This provider is also excellent in terms of security. It uses the standard AES 256-bit encryption model on all of its servers. In addition, users can pick between the trio of OpenVPN, IKEv2, and the widely acclaimed WireGuard. This provider also allows for split tunneling, has a functional kill switch and a species of secure servers known as NoSpy servers. This latter option preserves your security integrity even when you are in locations of high surveillance. All of these features combine with the existing security available on WhatsApp to keep you soundly safe online.

CyberGhost’s pricing and plans are easily affordable, regardless of the slew of features this provider has. It, unfortunately, does not have a free version. However, you can utilize its 45-day money-back window to have a taste of its services, potentially for free. You can find CyberGhost apps for windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV and Firestick, and routers. As long as you stay within the 7-devices limit, you will be safe.

  • Pros: No logs policy; 24/7 live chat; Apps for mobile devices and routers;
  • Lowest price: €2

How to Set Up and Use a VPN for WhatsApp

How do you integrate a VPN’s use with WhatsApp? The process is generally straightforward, although there may be slight differences across the different providers. Here are the general steps:

1. Download and install the VPN: You can pick any provider from the list above. You should be able to download straight from the provider’s website or your device’s app store. 

2. Run the app and toggle settings to your preference.

3. Connect to a server: If the provider has a quick connect feature, it should automatically connect you with the fastest server in your region. However, if it doesn’t, then you can manually connect to any server you prefer.

4. Ensure that the connection is confirmed. You can do this by checking your IP address. If it has changed, taking on the one provided by the VPN, then you are good to go.  

5. Head back to WhatsApp. You should have unrestricted access at this point.

Frequently Asked Questions on the Best VPNs for WhatsApp

Where is WhatsApp banned?

Indeed, WhatsApp is a popular messaging platform. However, several countries have banned WhatsApp for different reasons. Some of such countries include China, Syria, and North Korea. Conversely, some other countries restrict only WhatsApp’s voice and video calling features. This list includes the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, and Oman. In addition, many other countries have momentarily blocked the messaging app. You would need a VPN to unblock WhatsApp or use its VoIP features in these countries.

There’s no straightforward answer to this issue. Instead, the legality of bypassing WhatsApp restrictions depends on the VPN laws of each country. So, suppose you live in a country where using a VPN is illegal. This means that you cannot lawfully unblock WhatsApp in such a country. However, suppose your resident country allows VPN usage. Then, you can legally unblock the messaging platform with a VPN.

Is WhatsApp safe without a VPN?

Yes, WhatsApp is reasonably secure even without a VPN. This is because your messages on the platform are end-to-end encrypted. So, only senders and recipients can read WhatsApp messages. However, there have still been reports of WhatsApp accounts being hacked by unscrupulous parties. It would thus be best to increase your security structure with a VPN. A VPN will channel your entire internet traffic through an encrypted tunnel, thus keeping it far from cybercriminals.

What if my VPN cannot unblock WhatsApp?

Even after subscribing to a VPN, you may still not have access to WhatsApp. This could be because your ISP has blocked some IP addresses from your VPN provider. Furthermore, your device’s location data may be contradicting your VPN-granted IP address. So, it’ll be best to switch off your device’s location. You can also contact your VPN’s helpdesk. Customer care can tell you which servers can quickly unblock WhatsApp.

Conclusion

WhatsApp is one of the easiest social media platforms to use in 2024. It is also one of the most popular. Unfortunately, it is banned in some jurisdictions. Furthermore, some ISPs deliberately throttle the internet speed of WhatsApp users. It is possible to eliminate all of these with a VPN. This review shows you the best ones for that.