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Best VPNs for iPhone & iPad (iOS)

If you search for “VPN” in the App Store tons of VPN services will show up, but most of them are extremely poorly done and don’t even work (even if it seems like they do). Finding a VPN that is reliable, honest, and has good performance is pretty difficult and takes hours of research.

But don’t worry I have taken the time to do this step for you! I have tested and analyzed 48 VPNs on both my iPhone X and my iPad air 2. Most of them were extremely slow and didn’t do the things they said they would such as keep my location (IP) private.

iOS devices already have advanced security features to protect your device and data from most threats, but surprisingly it doesn’t offer a VPN service that would do the things that the iOS software can’t (meaning it would hide your IP address, unlock geo-restricted content, and more). Using a VPN on your iPhone or iOS device will make your online experience so much more secure and safe.

All of the VPN services shown in this list have been thoroughly tested based on many factors such as performance, security, features, and user experience. The VPNs all work really well on iOS devices and are compatible with the latest iOS versions and some earlier iOS versions as well. Here are the criteria for VPNs to rank in my list:

Zero Logs (doesn’t track/store your VPN history and activity)
Great Track History (the VPN company is honest, and hasn’t had any big issues in the past)
Stable Apps (the apps look good, easy to use, and don’t have bugs / major issues)
No Leaks (no DNS leaks and no IPv6 leaks)

With that said here are the best VPNs for iOS devices:

1. ExpressVPN - best VPN for iPhone

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Pros

Superfast VPN speeds
No log policy
No IP address leaks
Works with Neflix, and other streaming services
Easy to use apps
VPN browser extensions
Over 3,000 VPN servers in 94 countries
Torrenting

Cons

ExpressVPN offers users a huge server network with more than 3,000 servers located in 160+ countries, they also offer specialized servers for those who want to stream and torrent (high-performance servers). ExpressVPN is great if you want to unblock geo-restricted content such as different Netflix regions. (real the full ExpressVPN review here)

With ExpressVPN being based in the British Virgins Islands (BVI for short) it allows ExpressVPN the ability to actually have a true n0-logs policy and it benefits off of the privacy-friendly data laws in place (BVI is outside of the 5 eyes alliance meaning it doesn’t have to share data between countries).

The iOS app itself is very user friendly with a super clean and simple design. It offers users a quick one-click connection which makes it extremely simple and easy to use. The iOS app for ExpressVPN uses 256-bit encryption, leak protection (DNS/IPv6), zero-logs, and offers multiple types of VPN protocols such as the OpenVPN, IKEv2 and IPSec protocols.

ExpressVPN has done many things in order for their service to be the best VPN for iPhone. This includes their TrustedServer features which ensure that all of their servers are running on the same version. In addition, all of their servers run on RAM meaning they don’t store activity/history on them.

Here is a quick overview of ExpressVPNs best features:

High Performance – Their speeds are consistent and work all around the world, the high level of performance is due to the number of servers they have (3000+).
Works With Netflix – You can watch Netflix in multiple different regions across the world, this does include U.S Netflix.
Simple Use – To connect you just need to click one button and you’re set. The App has no big issues or bugs.
Torrenting – ExpressVPN allows torrenting on all their servers as well as having servers specifically for torrenting and streaming (high-performance servers).

ExpressVPN offers users live 24/7 live chat and multiple other ways of contacting them. In addition, all of their subscriptions come with a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can test the VPN out and if you don’t like it you can get your money back. (get 3 months free on ExpressVPN here)

2. NordVPN - best VPN for gaming

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Pros

Superfast same-country speeds
No logs & no IP, DNS leaks
Works with Netflix, Disney+, etc
Large server network (5,300+ servers in 58 countries)
Apps for many devices such as Windows, Mac, iOS, Andriod, etc
Torrenting P2P allowed

Cons

NordVPN offers its users to over 5,390 premium servers located in 60+ countries across the world. They also offer specialized servers for streaming HD content and torrenting/P2P connections (also known as their high-performance servers). (real full NordVPN review here)

NordVPN offers tons of features such as the kill switch (with ExpressVPN doesn’t have) and more. They also have advanced obfuscation settings which allow you to go undetected in countries with high levels of censorship like China. NordVPN is also a great choice if you’re planning on using the Tor browser.

The iOS app itself is easy-to-use just like ExpressVPN’s app. It offers a one-click connection which is really handy. NordVPN also is integrated with Apple’s Siri feature. With just saying “Hey Siri, connect to NordVPN” you can activate the connection without even needing to hold your phone.

The VPN company is based in Panama which has a great privacy-friendly jurisdiction and is located outside of the 5 eye alliance. The encryption used on the iOS app is 256-bit AES encryption which is the industry standard, it also offers a server-side ad blocker and a kill switch just in case your connection is interrupted.

The SmartPlay feature allows users to access over 150+ streaming services (this includes Netflix, BBC, Disney+ and more). It automatically chooses the server you need to use in order for you to by-pass the geo-restriction. With this feature you can easily stream movies and shows HD while having all of your traffic encrypted and safe, it’s also simple to set-up.

Here are some of NordVPN features / extra info you need to know:

Large Server Network – With over 5,390 servers located in 60+ NordVPN is definitely not lacking. Don’t forget about the specialized performance and P2P servers as well.
Zero logs – NordVPN has been verified as a zero-log VPN service by a third-party named PWC AG in Switzerland. This ensures none of your data will be stored/collected.
Feature RICH – NordVPN offers tons of different, reliable, and unique features that will make your online VPN experience so much better. This includes P2P support, SmartPlay, TrustedServers, fast connection, CyberSec, and more.
Location – NordVPN is located in Panama which has privacy-friendly laws and is outside of the 5 eyes alliance which further ensures your online privacy.
Devices / Applications – NordVPN has custom apps for almost every device out there. This even includes consoles, smart TVs and routers.

NordVPN offers 30-day money-back guarantees for all their plans, so if you want to try it out risk-free you can! If you have any questions NordVPN offers 24/7 live chat as well as multiple other ways of communication such as email. (here you can get 70% off NordVPN)

3. Surfshark - most affordable VPN

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Pros

No logs policy
Unlimited connections
Torrenting allowed
Works with Netflix
Safe and secure
Multi-hop
Adblocker

Cons

Although Surfshark is new to the VPN industry it has built a good reputation in a few years. They currently have 800+ servers located in more than 50+ countries across the globe. Their servers are fast enough to stream HD content and they have specialized servers for torrenting. Surfshark also offers unlimited simultaneous connections, so can share one account with your family and friends. (real the full Surfshark review here)

Surfshark has lots of unique and useful features that make your online browsing experience much safer and secure. One of their features called CleanWeb blocks ads, tracking, and phishing all from the server-side. Surfshark’s NoBorders feature allows you to bypass any censorship and gets you access to any geo-restricted content. They also offer the Camouflage mode which makes sure that your internet service provider (ISP) doesn’t know that you’re using a VPN connection.

Surfshark’s iOS app is easy to use and install. The iOS app uses the 256-bit AES encryption method to keep all of your data secure, it also supports torrenting/P2P traffic and it works with streaming services such as Netflix. The iOS app doesn’t use much battery while the VPN connection is activated.

With Surfshark being based in the BVI (British Virgin Islands) it is outside of the 5 eye alliance meaning they aren’t required to share information with other countries. This also adds an additional layer of legal protection which is important for a VPN to have. The iOS app protects you from any DNS / IPv6 leaks and offers a kill switch in case your connection drops.

Surfshark’s important features:

Torrenting – Surfshark claims they are a “torrenting-friendly VPN that has everything you need“. They also have good server speeds which makes torrenting so much better and safer.
Streaming Services – There aren’t that many VPNs that actually work with streaming services such as Netflix, but Surfshark really does. It can unblock 15 Netflix regions across the world (includes US Netflix).
Location – With Surfshark being based in the British Virgin islands it makes trusting their service so much easier as they don’t have to obey the 5 eyes alliance.
No-Logs Policy – Surfshark has absolute no-logs meaning they won’t track/collect your private information. You can read their privacy policy here for more information.
Features – Surfshark has tons of features that help you stay secure and more anonymous online. They offer a custom Adblocker/Malware blocker called CleanWeb, they also offer the multi-hop feature, and much more.

Surfshark has a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can test it out and if you don’t like it you can get all your money back. There is also a 7-day free trial for the Surfshark iOS app. If you’re interested you can get 83% off Surfshark here!

4. Private Internet Access

Pros

Cons

Private Internet Access has built a large server network throughout the years with more than 3,300 + servers located in more than 30 countries. They offer users with good performance that is fast enough to stream HD content and supports those who want to torrent.

Private Internet Access has a great reputation and has some useful features. They have a strict no-logs policy, unlimited traffic, and they do offer torrenting/P2P support. The VPN also protects you from any IPv6 and DNS leaks, meaning you don’t have to worry about your data being leaked and being seen by third-parties. PIA can also unblock some geo-restricted content such as Netflix and multiple other streaming services.

PIA’s iOS app is super easy-to-use. The app itself uses the 256-bit AES encryption method to ensure your data is safe. It also has a strict no-logs policy, and a built-in ad blocker, ad tracker, and even a malware blocker to ensure your online safety.

Key features to Private Internet Access:

No-Logs Policy – PIA will not collect/track your activity while connected the VPN.
High Performance – PIA offers high-performance servers that offer high speeds with unlimited bandwidth, this allows you to easily browse the internet easily.
Available Platforms – PIA works with and supports lots of popular platforms and devices. These platforms include Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, it even works on routers and smart TVs.
Netflix – The VPN is compatible with Netflix and it will allow you to bypass geo-restrictions placed on content.

Private Internet Access offers users a 7-day money-back guarantee on iOS devices which is great if you just want to test out their service. They also offer 24/7 customer service.

5. IPVanish

Pros

Cons

IPVanish has a large server network with over 1,400+ servers that are located in more than 75+ countries. All of their servers are great for torrenting, and great for streaming since their servers are high performance.

IPVanish uses the 256-bit AES encryption method to make sure that all of your data is secure. With one IPVanish account, you can have up to 10 simultaneous connections which is great if you want to share with your friends and family. You don’t have to worry about your data being collected since they have a zero traffic logs policy.

Their iOS app works with 3D touch meaning you can easily connect without opening the app, the app also has automatic WiFI protection in place. With IPVanish you can also access different Netflix content-regions and unblock other geo-restricted content. The VPN protocols they offer are the IKEv2, OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec VPN protocols.

Important IPVanish features:

No-Logs Policy – IPVanish doesn’t store any logs of your traffic meaning you don’t have to worry about anything being sold or kept.
Netflix – IPVanish can unblock some Netflix regions across the world while also unblock other geo-restricted content.
Server Network – With over 1,400+ servers you don’t have to worry about any server being slow or unstable. All of their servers have good speeds great for HD streaming and gaming.

IPVanish offers all users a 30-day money-back guarantee, so if you want to test IPVanish you can do so without having to worry. They also offer 24/7 support but they, unfortunately, don’t have live chat which some of the other VPNs on this list have.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions I came across while researching and testing out the VPNs. Here are the frequently asked questions about iPhone VPNs (if you don’t know what a VPN is check out our “what is a VPN” guide!)

Do I need a VPN for my iPhone?

Although Apple has done a great job at securing its devices adding an extra layer of protection would make your iPhone super secure.

With a VPN all of your personal data will be encrypted making it impossible for third-parties and hackers to see what you’re up to. Without a VPN you’re completely vulnerable online. A VPN also makes it easy to protect yourself from any DDoS attacks, trackers, advertisements, information exposing (doxing), and they can help you with unblocking geo-restricted content such as Netflix.

Are free VPNs good for iPhone?

I wouldn’t recommend looking into free VPNs at all, they get complex very quickly. Most free VPNs will sell your data to third-parties since that’s the only way they make money. Some free VPNs can actually install malware on your device and track your activity.

We do have a best free VPNs list, but make sure to be careful because there are a lot of bad and malicious VPN services out there.

The VPNs in our free VPN list don’t resort to selling data but they often have limited speed and data, they are great if you need a VPN for a one time occasion, but if you want to do anything more good luck doing that with a free VPN.

I would recommend signing up for a VPN that has a good free trial with a money-back guarantee if you want to try out a VPN, there also are no risks with doing this.

What are the best VPNs for iPhone?

All of the VPNs on this list are great! I would especially look into the top three VPNs as they are the best overall VPNs and have tons of features. The VPNs listed above are also similar to the best VPNs for Mac so you can buy one VPN both for your mac and your iOS devices.

If are looking for the best VPNs for mac you can read our detailed list here.

What is the best iPhone VPN for Netflix?

If you’re planning on watching Netflix you will need a VPN service with fast speeds in order to do so.

For this, I would recommend ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark since they are great for streaming since they have high-performance servers and each VPN has tons of unique features that can enhance your experience.

What is the best iPhone VPN for China?

Similar to the best iPhone VPNs for Netflix you need high-performance servers that can bypass the censorship of China.

With this being said I would recommend ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark since they all have features that can bypass China’s heavy censorship easily.

How do you install a VPN on iPhone?

Installing a VPN on your iPhone is super simple.

The first thing you will need is an account with a VPN service. After you have your login details you want to go to the Apple Store and download your VPN service’s iOS app.

Then you just need to open the iOS app and enter your login details and bam!

Some VPN services don’t have an iOS app on the App Store meaning you may have to install a third-party app on your phone. But don’t worry all of the VPNs on this list have their own dedicated iOS app already on the App Store.

Summary

Overall I had a lot of fun testing all of the VPNs and ranking them. Some VPNs were great but most of them weren’t that good.

This leads me to my final conclusion, the VPN I would recommend the most to anyone that wants an iOS VPN would be ExpressVPN since it has the highest security, no-logs policy, tons of features, fast 24/7 customer support and more. If you want to try out ExpressVPN for 30-days money-back guarantee see here!