Apple’s iPhones come with strong, built-in security, but adding a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can elevate your privacy even further, making it nearly impossible for advertisers, ISPs, and hackers to track your online activity. A VPN for your iPhone provides an extra layer of encryption, securing sensitive data like banking details, emails, and passwords, whether you’re on Wi-Fi or mobile data. With the release of the advanced iPhone 16, it’s a great time to consider the best VPN options to keep your online activity private and your connection safe. We’ve reviewed the top VPNs for iPhone in 2024, focusing on key features like privacy, speed, streaming capability, and overall value. Read on for the best VPN deals to enhance your iPhone’s security and take control of your online privacy.
Why Do I Need an iPhone VPN?
Absolutely, a VPN is essential for protecting your iPhone in today’s digital world. With phones now handling all kinds of sensitive tasks—banking, online shopping, emails, and browsing—the need for online privacy and security is more critical than ever. VPNs shield this personal information from prying eyes by encrypting data, making it far harder for cybercriminals or marketers to collect and exploit.
For instance, without a VPN, your Internet Service Provider (ISP) can monitor your online activity and potentially sell this data to advertisers. ISPs can also track IP addresses to monitor internet use and may throttle (or slow down) your connection if you’re using too much bandwidth. Additionally, websites use IP addresses to track users’ locations and search histories, often generating targeted ads based on this information.
If you’re traveling and want to access geo-restricted content, like shows on streaming platforms, a VPN allows you to connect to a server in your home country, giving you continued access to your favorite services.
Using a VPN is especially vital for iPhone users who conduct business on their devices. Many company phones handle sensitive information, such as financial records and confidential documents, making them prime targets for hackers. A VPN offers robust protection, keeping such crucial data safe and protecting both individual and business privacy.

The Best iPhone VPN (2025)
NordVPN – strong security features, the most secure VPN for iPhone
ExpressVPN – simple to use and has a plethora of helpful features
CyberGhost – lots of features for iOS safe, fast browsing
Surfshark – affordable option for an infinite number of devices
IPVanish – best iOS VPN for beginner users that ensures online security
Get to know our top iPhone VPN choices in more detail below:
NordVPN – The Most Secure iPhone VPN
NordVPN offers over 6,000 servers in 110+ countries, allowing up to 10 simultaneous connections. With an impressive 4.7 rating on the App Store and round-the-clock support, it’s ideal for unblocking streaming sites like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, ITVX, All4, 9Now, and 10Play.
Pricing and Deals
- 2-Year Plan: $2.99/month (includes 3 months free)
- 1-Year Plan: $4.59/month
- Monthly Plan: $12.99/month
Visit NordVPN’s site for these offers and more.
Why Choose NordVPN?
✔️ Perfect for Streaming: NordVPN easily unblocks nearly every streaming platform, letting you access all your favorite content on iOS without restrictions.
✔️ Wide Server Network: With 6,000 servers across 111 countries, NordVPN is highly versatile for travel, providing reliable connections even in remote locations.
✔️ Fully Audited: NordVPN’s comprehensive audits underscore its commitment to privacy, giving users added confidence in the security of their data.
Consider Alternatives If:
❌ Device Protection: If you need VPN coverage on more than 10 devices, options like Surfshark with unlimited connections might be more suitable.
❌ Simplicity: NordVPN’s map-based interface, although visually appealing, may feel cluttered on smaller screens.
Specifications
Server countries | 111 |
Server locations | 135 |
Devices supported | Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, web browsers, routers, game consoles, and more |
Customer support | 24/7 live chat |
Simultaneous connections | 10 devices |
Refund policy | 30-day guarantee |
Bottom Line: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
NordVPN is an excellent VPN for iPhone users, packed with extra security tools like a built-in antivirus, password manager, and other essentials to keep you safe online. It’s our top pick for streaming, and the 30-day money-back guarantee lets you try it risk-free.
In our review, NordVPN claimed the top spot as the #1 VPN overall, though ExpressVPN remains a close contender. NordVPN delivered speeds of over 950 Mbps in our tests, outpacing ExpressVPN and enhancing its appeal for travelers and streamers alike. Security-focused features like Double VPN (routing traffic through two servers) and Onion over VPN (for seamless Tor access) add a layer of robust protection.
NordVPN’s app maintains the desktop client’s map-style design, which may feel less optimal on mobile devices. However, it offers advanced features, including two kill switches, DNS leak detection, auto-connect, and access to protocols like OpenVPN UDP/TCP, IKEv2, and NordLynx.
For iOS users, NordVPN’s Threat Protection Lite blocks ads, malicious sites, and unsafe networks, delivering extra peace of mind. NordVPN’s superior streaming capabilities also make it ideal for watching shows on the go, bypassing restrictions on even the most elusive libraries, like Netflix Japan. If you own both an iPhone and a Mac, NordVPN remains a top choice for secure, seamless connectivity.
NordVPN Test Results
- Design: Stylish and user-friendly, though less cluttered navigation would improve it – ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Ease of Use: Simple across most features; only the map-based interface adds complexity – ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Performance: Lightning-fast speeds, nearly rivaling Surfshark – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Unblocking: Successfully bypasses restrictions on all major streaming platforms – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Security and Privacy: Comprehensive protection with added antivirus – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Customer Support: 24/7 assistance with plenty of helpful resources – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Price: Affordable, though not the least expensive option – ⭐⭐⭐⭐
NordVPN combines speed, security, and streaming capability, making it a top choice for iPhone users looking for a powerful, secure VPN experience.
Pros
Feature-rich iOS apps
Excellent security
Reliable kill switch
Impressive speeds
Threat Protection
Audited no-logs policy
Massive server fleet
Great for streaming
Cons
No free version for iOS
ExpressVPN – Simple iPhone VPN
ExpressVPN performed flawlessly in accessing streaming services during testing, scoring impressively across every category. With features like a password manager, Threat Protection, and a custom-built protocol, this VPN packs plenty of value.
In my review of ExpressVPN, what stood out was its simplicity. The VPN’s user-friendly approach is evident in its iPhone app, where everything you need to get started is accessible in seconds. The app combines an intuitive design with powerful privacy features, perfect for anyone who wants to set it and forget it. Advanced users will find expert-level options available, but for most people, ExpressVPN’s straightforward design will be a standout feature.
Upon opening the app, you’re greeted by a prominent on-off button for easy activation. If you don’t need to select a specific server, one tap is all it takes to connect. For those who want a particular location, choosing a server is seamless—just tap to access a list of 160 locations across 105 countries.
Security essentials are all here, including a kill switch to protect your connection if the VPN drops, along with AES-256 encryption. ExpressVPN’s Threat Manager blocks trackers and malware, and a smart auto-connect feature paired with a strict no-logs policy ensures comprehensive privacy.
Thanks to its extensive server network and robust unblocking abilities, ExpressVPN can reliably access all major streaming platforms. Speeds of around 900 Mbps using its Lightway protocol place it among the fastest VPNs available, and while OpenVPN speeds cap around 170 Mbps, it’s still more than enough for smooth 4K streaming.
ExpressVPN’s 24/7 live chat support is exceptional. Whenever I’ve encountered issues or had questions, their agents have consistently provided fast, effective assistance, which isn’t something every VPN can claim.
While NordVPN, ExpressVPN’s main competitor, offers more advanced features, it also brings more complexity, making it slightly less intuitive for iPhone users. ExpressVPN does limit simultaneous connections to eight devices, though you can download the app on as many devices as needed. It’s also on the pricier side, but the 30-day money-back guarantee gives you peace of mind to try it out.
In short, ExpressVPN is the most feature-rich iPhone VPN available, and if you’re looking for the best, it’s hard to go wrong here.
Specifications
Server countries | 105 |
Server locations | 145 |
Devices supported | Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, web browsers, routers, game consoles, and more |
Customer support | Live chat and knowledge base |
Simultaneous connections | Eight |
Refund policy | 30-day money-back guarantee |
ExpressVPN Test Results
- Design: Clean and minimal, with easily accessible options – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Ease of Use: Perfect for all users, from beginners to experts – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Performance: Very fast, though a bit behind NordVPN and Surfshark – ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Unblocking: Excellent access to every streaming platform tested – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Security and Privacy: Industry-leading encryption and privacy with extra tools – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Customer Support: Round-the-clock support with helpful guides – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Price: Premium pricing, worth it for those who prioritize quality – ⭐⭐⭐
ExpressVPN offers a premium VPN experience on iPhone, balancing high speeds, top security, and user-friendly design.
Pros
Good for Netflix streaming
Kill switch for iPhone
Independently audited no-logs policy
High speed connections
Cons
No optimised streaming servers
More features for Android users
Free trial only available for Android
Surfshark – User-friendly iPhone VPN
Surfshark offers a massive server network with over 3,200 servers in 100 countries, providing iPhone users with solid global coverage. This VPN is packed with value, offering top-notch security features, rapid connection speeds, and support for unlimited devices per account.
Why Choose Surfshark?
✔️ Ideal for Families: With unlimited simultaneous connections, Surfshark lets you protect every device in your household under a single subscription.
✔️ Great for Speed: Surfshark is one of the fastest VPNs we’ve tested, making it perfect if you’re looking for high-speed connections.
✔️ Excellent Value: With prices starting under $2 a month, Surfshark delivers incredible value without sacrificing quality.
Reasons to Pass on Surfshark
❌ Limited for Torrenting: While decent, it doesn’t quite compete with ExpressVPN for P2P support.
❌ Kill Switch Limitations: Surfshark’s kill switch is reliable but isn’t as robust as those of NordVPN and ExpressVPN, occasionally faltering under low-level network tweaks.
Specifications
Server countries | 100 |
Server locations | 140 |
Devices supported | Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, web browsers, routers, game consoles and more |
Customer support | 24/7 live chat |
Simultaneous connections | Unlimited |
Refund policy | 30-day guarantee |
Final Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
Surfshark is a standout choice for anyone needing to cover multiple devices on a budget. Despite its affordability, it delivers impressive speeds, unblocking power, and an easy-to-use app, making it a great alternative to pricier options like ExpressVPN or NordVPN.
If you’ve just invested in the latest iPhone and are looking for a wallet-friendly VPN, Surfshark is hard to beat. It’s a budget-friendly provider with polished apps and ample features for anyone’s needs. In my testing, Surfshark’s iPhone app was simple to set up, yet packed with options. While the auto-connect function is a straightforward choice, advanced users can toggle settings like protocol (choosing between WireGuard, OpenVPN UDP and TCP, and IKEv2) and activate the kill switch to maintain a secure connection.
On the security side, Surfshark shines. It boasts an audited no-logs policy and RAM-only servers, plus a CleanWeb feature to block ads and malware. These features, accessible in the app’s Feature tab, make it especially reliable for privacy-focused users.
Surfshark also excels in streaming, making it one of the best Netflix VPNs thanks to servers in over 100 countries, along with access to libraries worldwide. It smoothly supports sites like Hulu, Prime Video, and other major platforms. And with over 950 Mbps speeds in testing, Surfshark performs impressively even for gaming, offering low latency ideal for high-speed play.
Another perk is Surfshark’s unlimited simultaneous connections. Cover all your devices—from iPhone and iPad to Mac and Windows PC. Plus, its recent app updates, like the addition of widgets and in-app bug reporting, enhance its usability, a fact reflected in its 4.8/5 App Store rating.
Surfshark Test Results
- Design: Intuitive and fun, great for beginners – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Ease of Use: Matches desktop client functionality on iOS – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Performance: Fastest provider in tests – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Unblocking: Excellent for streaming, reliable access – ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Security & Privacy: Some minor kill switch issues, otherwise top-notch – ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Customer Support: Friendly, 24/7 support with useful resources – ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Price: Unbeatable value, especially for budget-conscious users – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
In summary, Surfshark is an outstanding budget VPN that doesn’t skimp on performance, making it a great option for iPhone users who want high-speed, reliable protection across multiple devices.
Pros
Unlimited VPN connections
Affordable subscription
Very fast iOS speeds
Excellent streaming support
Cons
Doesn’t notify users if the connection drops
Some features missing on iOS
How Do We Choose the Best iPhone VPN?
Finding decent VPNs for iPhones is a difficult effort due to iOS constraints. Apple sandboxes all third-party programs, preventing them from simply changing settings.
As a result, selecting a VPN becomes more difficult. However, these are the criteria we used to identify the finest ones:
Security: Although Apple’s App Store is far more carefully vetted than Google’s, it can not ensure that all programs are secure. We ensured that each service we chose used strong encryption, such as AES-256. In addition, we only considered VPNs that use safe tunneling technologies, such as WireGuard or OpenVPN. Using the right combination of security measures guarantees that you remain untraceable online, whether on your home or a public Wi-Fi network.
Privacy: Collaborative efforts with law enforcement and the company’s location might be severe red flags. We looked into whether the service’s privacy policy had been audited.
Client for iOS: Most iPhone VPN iOS applications are poor quality, especially compared to desktop equivalents. Nonetheless, a few famous VPNs provide crucial functionality. We examined each provider’s app to ensure it offers the best iOS VPN experience.
Locations and servers: It is advantageous for a VPN to have many server alternatives. It aids in the unblocking of geo-restricted material and the avoidance of congested ones. We searched for services that provide the most server locations.
Performance: You don’t want to trade off speed for security and privacy. As a result, we utilized our performance test tool to assess the speed of VPNs using various tunneling protocols.
Censorship avoidance: One of the reasons people are interested in VPNs is the capacity to access prohibited websites. Only the finest VPNs work with Netflix and other streaming services. With each VPN, we attempted to unblock a range of geo-restricted content.
Price: There ought to be a healthy relationship between the price and what you get. If there is an unbalance, this will not propel you to the top of the best VPN for iPhone ranking. To determine whether the service provides a reasonable price/quality ratio, we totaled each test result and compared it to the price.
How to use a VPN on iPhone
Here’s how to set up and manage a VPN on your iPhone, whether you’re using a new VPN provider or changing your current one:
How to Set Up a VPN on Your iPhone:
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Select “General” from the options.
- Scroll down and tap “VPN”.
- Choose “Add VPN Configuration”.
- Select the VPN protocol (IKEv2, IPSec, or L2TP) under “Type.”
- Enter a description and server name for your VPN connection.
- Input your username and password provided by your VPN service.
- If necessary, choose Auto or Manual to set up a proxy server.
- Tap “Done” to save your settings.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your VPN will be configured on your iPhone.
How to Activate or Deactivate the VPN on Your iPhone:
- Go back to Settings on your iPhone.
- Tap “General”, then select “VPN”.
- Use the status switch to turn your VPN on or off.
Best VPN for iPhone comparison
STARTING MONTHLY PRICE | AVERAGE DOWNLOAD SPEEDS | AVERAGE UPLOAD SPEEDS | NUMBER OF VPN LOCATIONS | |
---|---|---|---|---|
NordVPN | $12.99 | 356 | 333 | Over 100 |
Surfshark | $15.45 | 330 | 312 | 100 |
PureVPN | $11.95 | $354 | 311 | Over 80 |
ProtonVPN | $9.99 | 317 | 353 | Over 100 |
CyberGhost | $12.99 | 313 | 330 | 100 |
IPVanish | $12.99 | 339 | 358 | Over 90 |
IVPN | $6.00 | 381 | 312 | 31 |
ExpressVPN | $12.95 | 285 | 331 | Over 100 |
Private Internet Access (PIA) | $11.95 | 244 | 204 | Over 90 |
How I Tested VPNs for iOS: A Comprehensive Approach
When evaluating VPNs for iPhone and iPad, I prioritized the following key factors:
- Privacy & Security: I scrutinized each VPN’s privacy policy, verified IP changes on multiple servers, and tested the kill switch and DNS leak protection to ensure strong encryption and a strict no-logging policy.
- Unblocking Capacities: I extensively tested each VPN’s ability to unblock popular streaming services like Netflix, Prime, Disney, and more, as well as its performance in accessing geo-restricted content.
- Speed: I assessed each VPN’s impact on internet speed on iPhones, testing default protocols and any settings that may improve speed.
- Server Network: I evaluated the size and diversity of each VPN’s server network, including countries/regions covered and dedicated servers for gaming or torrenting.
- Value for Money: I reviewed each VPN’s pricing plans to ensure a good deal, considering any additional features like password managers or adblockers.
Why a Free VPN is Not Worth it for iPhone
While some free VPNs for iPhone may seem appealing, I strongly advise against using them. Here’s why:
- Limited Server Network: Most free VPNs have a limited number of server locations, making it difficult to unblock popular sites and apps.
- Speed Limits: Free VPNs often enforce speed limits, restricting your ability to use your iOS VPN freely.
- Lackluster Privacy: Free VPNs often prioritize collecting user data and may even download malware onto your device.
- Limited Bandwidth: Free VPNs typically provide limited mobile data, usually up to 500 MB per day, which is insufficient for normal browsing, streaming, and downloading.
What Does a VPN for iPhone Do?
When your iPhone is connected to the internet—whether on mobile data or Wi-Fi—it is vulnerable to potential security risks. This risk is even more pronounced on unsecured public Wi-Fi networks, like those found in coffee shops, airports, or hotels. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) helps protect your data in these situations by creating a secure, encrypted connection between your iPhone and the VPN server.
Once connected to a VPN, your internet traffic is routed through the VPN server. This process masks your actual IP address and can make it appear as though you’re browsing from a different location. The result? Your sensitive data, such as passwords and personal information, is encrypted, preventing third parties from intercepting it.
Are iPhone VPNs Fully Featured?
While iPhone VPNs generally offer the same core features as those on other platforms, there are a few limitations. One key difference is that iPhone VPNs do not support split tunneling, a feature that allows you to route some traffic through the VPN while leaving other traffic outside it. This limitation is due to iOS’s code restrictions. However, most iPhone users won’t miss this feature.
Additionally, some smaller VPN providers may not dedicate as many resources to their iOS apps as they do to their Android or desktop versions. Fortunately, the VPNs we recommend are feature-rich, easy to use, and highly effective on iOS.
Can I Get a Free iPhone VPN?
While free VPNs might seem tempting, they often come with significant drawbacks. Many free VPN services impose data limits or throttle speeds, and some are downright risky. Free VPNs on the App Store have been known to engage in deceptive practices, such as charging high weekly fees after a “free” trial, or failing to provide adequate security.
It’s important to be cautious, as iPhone apps may lack the same level of configuration as desktop software, leaving you vulnerable to scams or poor security practices. To ensure your privacy and security, it’s best to invest in a reputable, paid VPN service—or opt for a trusted free VPN with solid features and no hidden costs.
Frequently asked questions
Q: Who has the best VPN for iPhone?
A: While opinions may vary, some of the top-rated VPNs for iPhone include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark. These VPNs offer strong encryption, fast speeds, and user-friendly interfaces.
Q: What is the best VPN for August 2024?
A: As VPNs are constantly evolving, it’s difficult to pinpoint a single “best” VPN for a specific month. However, we recommend checking out reviews and ratings from reputable sources to find the best VPN for your needs.
Q: Is there a 100% free VPN for iPhone?
A: Unfortunately, there is no 100% free VPN that offers unlimited data and no restrictions. Most free VPNs come with limitations, such as data caps, slow speeds, or ads. However, some free VPNs like ProtonVPN and TunnelBear offer a limited amount of free data and features.
Q: Is it worth getting a VPN for iPhone?
A: Absolutely! A VPN can provide numerous benefits, including:
- Enhanced online security and privacy
- Access to geo-restricted content
- Improved streaming and downloading speeds
- Protection from online tracking and ads
- Increased anonymity and confidentiality
Conclusion
As we navigate the digital landscape, it’s essential to prioritize our online security and privacy. A reliable free iPhone VPN can be a game-changer, offering a sense of anonymity and protection from prying eyes. But, as with any free service, there are trade-offs to consider.
On one hand, a free VPN can provide a sense of security and freedom, allowing you to access geo-blocked content and hide your IP address. Proton VPN, in particular, stands out as a reliable option, offering decent security features and a no-logs policy.
On the other hand, free VPNs often come with limitations. Many lack the advanced features, vast server networks, and lightning-fast speeds that premium VPNs offer. And, let’s be honest, not all free VPNs prioritize your privacy and security.
So, what’s the solution? If you’re willing to invest in your online security, NordVPN’s free trial or premium version is an excellent choice. For just $2.99/month, you’ll get top-notch protection and peace of mind.
Ultimately, the decision to use a free iPhone VPN depends on your priorities. If you’re looking for a quick fix or a temporary solution, a free VPN might suffice. But if you value your privacy and security above all else, it’s worth considering a premium VPN like NordVPN.