What Is a VPN on Android?
An Android VPN, specifically tailored for utilization on your Android phone or tablet, forms a virtual private network. This innovative technology establishes a fortified, encrypted linkage between your device and the VPN server, shielding your data from potential interception by entities on the network, including your Internet Service Provider (ISP).
Have you ever encountered a situation where you couldn’t reach a website? This predicament arises when the website owner intentionally restricts access based on geographical IPs, encompassing your current location. VPNs serve as effective tools to circumvent such geographical restrictions and censorship. By connecting to a server in a different country, you unlock access to content that might otherwise remain barred in your present location.
Beyond merely sidestepping restrictions, a VPN functions as a robust guardian of your privacy. When tethered to a VPN, your internet traffic undergoes redirection through the VPN server rather than navigating directly to the internet. This additional layer of security poses a formidable challenge for anyone attempting to trace or monitor your online activities.
How To Set Up a VPN on Android?
Setting up a VPN on your Android device involves installing a dedicated VPN app. While a plethora of VPN apps exist, not all are crafted with the same level of excellence. Optimal VPN applications boast a user-friendly interface, ensuring ease of use alongside a diverse array of features.
Launch the VPN app and input your login credentials after successfully installing the VPN app. Once connected, you gain the flexibility to select a server location, initiating the use of the VPN. The majority of VPN apps seamlessly connect to the optimal server location automatically, yet some afford you the option to choose a specific server according to your preferences manually.
How to use a VPN on Android?
Most Android VPNs are easy to set up and operate. Follow the steps we outline below and you’ll be using your new Android VPN in no time.
- Choose and download a VPN app from a reputable source.
- Install the VPN app on your Android device.
- Open the VPN app and log in to your VPN account if necessary.
- Select the server location from the options provided and press “connect” to establish the VPN connection.
Top 9 the best Android VPNs today:
1. ExpressVPN – the best VPN Android overall
ExpressVPN provides an extensive range of educational materials covering various topics, including streaming sports, enhancing online privacy, and ensuring safety on public Wi-Fi. Additionally, their blog offers insights into security tips and updates on internet privacy news.
With thousands of servers spread across 94 countries, ExpressVPN boasts one of the most expansive VPN networks. To identify the fastest server connection, users can utilize the integrated speed test feature, measuring download speed and latency. In cases where a preferred country’s server isn’t found, a new location can be requested.
ExpressVPN offers users more than just standard features. Alongside split tunneling, private DNS, an automatic kill switch, and a web threat manager, they also benefit from:
- TrustedServer technology: Servers operate solely on RAM or volatile memory, ensuring data is wiped with each power cycle.
- Lightway protocol: A proprietary protocol designed for a quicker, more reliable, and secure VPN experience, consuming less battery and being easier to maintain and audit.
ExpressVPN stands out by offering its app in 17 languages, catering to a diverse user base. However, it has a limitation of allowing only up to five simultaneous device connections, the lowest among the VPNs on our list (excluding free plans). While it provides 24/7 support through live chat and email, phone support is not available.
ExpressVPN’s pricing structure differs from others, as it doesn’t offer two-year contracts. Although its starting monthly price is technically higher at $8.32, its month-to-month plans are comparable to those of other providers on this list.
2. Surfshark – the best cheap Android VPN
A single subscription to Surfshark allows simultaneous connections across an unlimited number of devices.
Surfshark boasts over 3,200 servers spanning more than 100 countries, accompanied by a suite of features. Among these is Clean Web 2.0, a service that blocks ads, banners, pop-ups, and malware. The VPN also supports Double VPN, enabling users to connect to two independent servers simultaneously. Additionally, an IP rotator periodically changes your IP address without disconnecting from the VPN network.
Beyond these functionalities, Surfshark incorporates an automatic kill switch, DNS leak protection, and a cookie popup blocker. The VPN employs RAM-only servers that do not store data and undergo periodic wipes, ensuring enhanced security through military-grade encryption. Users have the flexibility to choose between three major VPN protocols: WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2.
Surfshark offers plans starting at $2.49 per month (billed at $59.76 for 24 months) with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Payment options include credit cards, Amazon Pay, Google Pay, Sofort, or PayPal. Additionally, Surfshark accommodates cryptocurrency payments, such as Bitcoin and Ethereum. Users can opt for the Surfshark One bundle, providing extra services like information monitoring, antivirus software, and a private search engine.
While Surfshark ensures 24/7 customer support via live chat and email, phone support is not available.
3. NordVPN – the best VPN Android security suite
Thanks to the NordLynx protocol, NordVPN delivers some of the fastest connection speeds without compromising privacy or security.
NordVPN boasts one of the most extensive networks on our list, encompassing over 5,000 servers across 60 countries. The utilization of the proprietary NordLynx protocol, based on the rapid WireGuard protocol, contributes to some of the highest speeds recorded in tests conducted by independent IT organizations.
In addition to its impressive speed, NordVPN offers robust security tools, including an automatic kill switch, DNS leak protection, and DoubleVPN support. Additional features include:
- Meshnet: Facilitating the setup and management of a virtual private network, allowing shared services and resources among various devices for both business and personal purposes.
- Dark Web Monitor: This technology monitors potential leaks associated with your NordVPN email address, promptly notifying you upon detection.
- Browser Proxy Extension: NordVPN provides a lightweight browser extension that enhances your browsing experience by blocking ads and safeguarding against dangerous links.
- Onion over VPN: A distinctive feature that combines the security of a VPN tunnel with the advantages of The Onion Router (Tor). Data is routed through a series of servers in the Onion network, ensuring encryption at every point for an added layer of anonymity.
NordVPN’s most budget-friendly package is the standard plan, priced at $3.99 per month for a two-year term (billed as $102.33). However, the monthly plan is relatively expensive at $12.99. It’s important to note that users can connect up to six devices simultaneously, which may suffice for an individual but falls short compared to the connection allowances offered by other leading competitors.
4. Proton VPN – best free VPN for Android
Proton VPN provides a perpetually free version of its software, an uncommon offering among free VPNs. This version includes unlimited data, lacks speed limits, and is entirely free of advertisements.
The Swiss-based Proton VPN’s free version distinguishes itself with its notable performance and absence of restrictions. Alongside unrestricted bandwidth, the free plan encompasses two key features:
VPN Accelerator: This feature enhances internet speed by up to 400%, particularly beneficial over unreliable connections.
Stealth VPN Protocol: An undetectable protocol capable of bypassing various VPN blocking methods and firewalls. It enables access to censored sites even in the face of government attempts to block access. The Stealth protocol is available in both the free and paid plans.
For users seeking additional VPN features, an upgrade to the paid Proton VPN Plus plan is available. This premium plan offers access to 10Gbit servers, malware protection, BitTorrent support, NetShield ad-blocker, and more. Paid subscribers also enjoy access to over 1,900 servers in more than 65 regions, with the ability to connect up to ten devices concurrently. However, free users are limited to connecting one device at a time and accessing servers in only three countries: Japan, the Netherlands, and the U.S.
Paid ProtonVPN plans commence at $4.99 per month (billed at $119.76 every two years) and are accompanied by a 30-day money-back guarantee. Payment options include cash, PayPal, credit or debit cards, bank transfers, and even Bitcoin.
5. CyberGhost – simple and reliable Android VPN
Our next Android VPN recommendation is CyberGhost, a Romanian provider that stands out as a decent choice, covering all the essential aspects.
When reviewing CyberGhost, I find its apps consistently impressive, with the Android app being especially notable. Besides standard features like AES-256 encryption and the option to choose between OpenVPN and WireGuard, the Android app also offers additional functions like auto-connect on unsecured Wi-Fi, line segmentation tunnel to select specific applications for VPN routing, and a random port feature to potentially circumvent VPN blocking.
While the built-in content blocker is just a small bonus, and domain logging proves to be a useful trick to avoid VPN blocking, it’s worth noting that there’s no kill switch in the features. CyberGhost’s features. While you can get around this using Android’s native kill switch feature, it’s a solution that could be more seamlessly integrated. On a positive note, CyberGhost includes an anti-tracking feature to avoid targeted ads.
Acknowledged for its prowess as a streaming VPN, CyberGhost performed well in my tests, although I found there were limitations in unblocking UK Netflix or Disney+. With an extensive network of over 9,000 servers across 91 countries, along with impressive speeds, finding a suitable location shouldn’t be a challenge.
CyberGhost demonstrated commendable speed capabilities, reaching a peak of 730 Mbps with the WireGuard protocol and an even more impressive 380 Mbps with OpenVPN, surpassing industry standards. Even when compared to top-performing providers like Surfshark on WireGuard, CyberGhost outperforms OpenVPN speeds, hovering around 150 Mbps.
In addition to meeting your streaming, torrenting, and gaming needs with dedicated servers, CyberGhost also proves to be a reliable choice for secure Internet browsing, including sensitive portals like banking sites, especially on public Wi-Fi.
Considering the combination of price and performance, CyberGhost’s Android VPN stands out, especially for users looking for additional features. A substantial 45-day money-back guarantee offers an extended trial period that far exceeds that offered by other Android VPNs and allows users to test the service without financial risk.
6. IPVanish – best Beginner VPN
You have never used a VPN, but now you want to find a VPN for work and entertainment on your Android phone. The first candidate we want to mention is IPVanish. IPVanish’s notable strength lies in its attractive and customizable interface, making it a great choice for users who want to delve into the intricacies of VPN functionality. This client is especially suitable for those who want to learn the inner workings of a VPN. Notably, in its Android app, IPVanish has successfully condensed a comprehensive range of digital controls into a clear and user-friendly mobile interface. For individuals looking for precise adjustments to their VPN connection, IPVanish proves to be a reliable choice. Offering a wide variety of switches for functions such as kill switches, split tunneling, VPN protocols, and LAN connectivity support, IPVanish caters to meticulous tech enthusiasts who review Highly precise control of their mobile internet traffic. Priced at $12 per month or $54 for the first year (followed by an annual fee of $90), IPVanish offers a powerful solution for those who value both functionality and user-friendly customization. use.
7. TunnelBear – best for Unlimited Devices
TunnelBear’s VPN application for Android mirrors the ease of use and playful design found in its iOS counterpart, with an added advantage: Android users have access to split tunneling, a valuable feature we tested on a Samsung Galaxy S22 5G running Android 12.
The user-friendly interface of TunnelBear features a delightful and animated map, housing a bear that playfully indicates the location of your VPN server. While the Android app presents a list of countries with server locations, users can choose from a list of cities when selecting from the Canada or US server lists.
A convenient toggle at the app’s bottom indicates whether the device is connected to the VPN. While the Android version lacks a Kill Switch, it compensates with app-level split tunneling, a feature absent in the iOS version. VigilantBear serves as the auto-reconnect option, and GhostBear disguises your VPN connection as regular internet traffic when VPN activity faces blocking. Notably, the Settings menu includes the charming Bear Sounds options—roars that play upon connecting or disconnecting from a VPN server.
Opting for TunnelBear VPN doesn’t strain your budget. The Unlimited plan is priced at $9.99 per month, just slightly above the $9.84 average for tested VPNs. TunnelBear VPN also offers longer-term subscriptions, with an annual plan costing $59.88, which is below the average of $66.28 per year among VPNs we’ve assessed. There’s also a three-year plan at $120. Despite the affordability, it’s worth noting that other VPNs, like the Editors’ Choice winner Mullvad VPN, offer excellent services for even less, at just 5 euros per month ($5.40 as of the latest update).
8. KeepSolid VPN Unlimited – best for Travelers
KeepSolid VPN stands out as a powerful virtual private network that integrates seamlessly with your favorite devices. It facilitates the streaming of global TV shows, movies, and sporting events regardless of your geographical location. Notably, it offers a special option with a lifetime membership subscription, catering to users who are looking for the most profitable deal. Extensive flexibility allows users to choose the optimal server for their workload, ensuring top speeds.
With a network of more than 3,000 high-speed servers globally and considered the best VPN for travelers, KeepSolid VPN spans over 80 locations, including Brazil, Chile, Poland, Austria, Belgium, Hong Kong, and Japan. Users can conveniently access the latest server locations directly from the app.
KeepSolid VPN offers the choice of selecting a server manually or letting the software automatically connect to the fastest server available. A unique feature allows users to save their favorite servers for easy access during subsequent logins. Furthermore, a simple filtering system based on types of Internet activity, such as those optimized for streaming services, would enhance the user experience.
The pricing structure includes five simultaneous connections, with the option to expand to 10 connections, starting at $59.99 per year or $9.99 per month. For an additional $14.99 per month, users can get a dedicated IP address. Accepted payment methods include credit cards, PayPal, and for those who want extra anonymity, bitcoin.
KeepSolid offers a seven-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee, encouraging users to explore its features with confidence. Despite any reservations arising from the small print, the trial period ensures users can evaluate the service without risk.
9. hide.me – best for Leak Protection
Currently operating under the name eVenture Ltd., hide.me was established in 2012 by the former Forbes-profiled entrepreneur Sebastian Schaub. Headquartered in Malaysia, the company focuses solely on its product, hide.me VPN. This VPN stands out with robust features, including 10 simultaneous connections, split tunneling, multihop, and support for peer-to-peer activities such as gaming and torrenting. It has earned a commendable position on our list of best VPN services.
hide.me VPN boasts strong attributes, notably a steadfast commitment to privacy and a diverse range of customization options like multihop and a kill switch. The dedication to privacy is particularly noteworthy, with hide.me adopting a no-logs policy from the app’s inception, setting it apart from providers that embraced this approach later. Additionally, it supports anonymized payments, minimizing data collection compared to some competitors. The inclusion of peer-to-peer support makes it an attractive choice for users seeking an enhanced gaming or torrenting experience.
The premium tier, known as Premium, is priced at $14.95 per month, the subject of this evaluation. This cost exceeds the current industry average of $10.80 per month. It’s worth mentioning that all VPNs rated highest by PCMag are more budget-friendly than hide.me. For instance, Norton Secure VPN is priced at $7.99 per month, and ProtonVPN offers a multi-tier system, providing an excellent, full-featured VPN for as low as $5.00 per month. Keep in mind that, like many VPN providers, hide.me frequently offers discounts on its subscriptions, potentially providing a lower price than the base listed cost of $14.95.
How to choose an Android VPN?
When deciding on a VPN for your Android device, it’s crucial to consider your specific usage needs.
If your primary goal is to enhance privacy while on the go, focusing on strong encryption, high-speed performance, and a few additional features for customization might suffice.
However, if your intention is to access global TV shows and movies, ensure that your chosen provider supports this capability, as not all do.
Furthermore, personal preference plays a role. Some Android VPN apps offer a streamlined and minimalist interface, ideal for those who prefer simplicity. On the other hand, some apps provide extensive data and information about your connections, catering to users who appreciate a more detailed display.
All the providers mentioned on this page are considered entirely safe to use. For a comprehensive understanding, I recommend reading through my in-depth reviews to make an informed decision based on your preferences and requirements.
What Does a VPN Not Protect Against?
While VPNs offer substantial advantages in terms of privacy, security, and bypassing geo-restrictions, it’s crucial to recognize that they are not a comprehensive solution for all online threats. Understanding the limitations of a VPN is essential to ensure you’re taking adequate precautions for your protection. Here are some areas where a VPN might not provide protection:
Malware and Viruses:
- VPNs encrypt data and enhance privacy but typically do not prevent malware or viruses from infecting your device. Protect against these threats by using reliable antivirus software and avoiding downloads from untrustworthy sources.
Phishing Attacks:
- VPNs cannot shield you from falling victim to phishing attacks, where cybercriminals trick you into revealing sensitive information. Stay safe by exercising caution when clicking on links and refraining from entering personal details on suspicious websites.
Weak or Compromised Passwords:
- A VPN cannot secure your online accounts if you use weak or easily guessable passwords. Create strong, unique passwords for each account and consider using a password manager to assist in remembering them.
Physical Device Theft:
- A VPN cannot protect your device from being stolen or physically accessed. Safeguard your data in such scenarios by employing device encryption, strong passwords, or biometric authentication, and enabling remote wiping capabilities.
User Error:
- A VPN can only uphold your privacy and security if used correctly. Accidentally disabling the VPN, connecting to unsecured Wi-Fi networks, or inadvertently leaking personal information through social media can still pose risks to your data.
Illegal Activities:
- Using a VPN does not grant immunity from consequences for engaging in illegal online activities. While a VPN can help maintain privacy, it is not a license to break the law, and legal repercussions may follow if caught participating in unlawful activities.
VPN Android FAQ
1. What is the best Android VPN?
Having evaluated numerous Android VPNs, one name consistently stood out – ExpressVPN. With exceptionally user-friendly apps, impressive speeds, and strong privacy features, it meets all the criteria.
For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, we suggest considering Surfshark. Priced at approximately $2.50 per month, it’s a compelling bargain and competes effectively with ExpressVPN.
2. Do I need an Android VPN?
If you frequently connect to public Wi-Fi networks, having an Android VPN is essential.
While some networks are secured with passwords and encryption, there are still plenty that may expose you to potential attacks from other connected users. The encryption provided by an Android VPN safeguards both you and your data from potential hackers, making the modest monthly fee worthwhile.
Moreover, a significant reason many users opt for a VPN is for streaming purposes. When you’re abroad, accessing the shows you normally watch at home can be challenging without a VPN, even if you’ve paid for the subscription.
This is because online TV services often geo-block their libraries for licensing reasons (such as Netflix and iPlayer). Using a VPN allows your device to appear as if it’s in a country of your choice, granting you access to the same media available to anyone else in that specific country.
3. Are Android VPNs legal?
VPNs have acquired a somewhat stained reputation, often associated with hackers, pirates, and other online criminals. However, in most countries, having a VPN on all your devices is entirely legal, and the overwhelming majority of users employ them for legitimate purposes.
Certain countries, such as Belarus, China, and Iran, have outright banned VPNs. Despite these bans, VPN usage persists in these regions. While we do not advocate breaking the law under any circumstances, if you opt to use a VPN in these countries, it’s essential to select a secure provider offering obfuscated servers.
4. What else can Android VPNs do?
While on your phone, you might not fully exploit the capabilities of your Android VPN, typically using it for online security and occasional overseas Netflix streaming. Fortunately, every VPN on this list permits you to utilize your subscription on multiple devices.
This flexibility enables you to install your VPN not only on your PC or Mac but also on other devices like your smart TV, gaming console, or router. This broader usage allows you to harness the full potential of VPNs.
Utilizing a VPN for torrenting is a significant advantage for staying secure, considering the real risks associated with engaging in P2P sharing without protection.
Moreover, VPNs serve as a tool to circumvent internet service restrictions, particularly beneficial for students, those in rented accommodation, or individuals at work. This capability ensures that you can browse the web without encountering obstacles to accessing the content you want.
5. How do you set up an Android VPN?
Setting up a VPN on Android is a straightforward process, akin to installing any other app.
To begin, download the app either from the Play Store or directly from the provider’s website. Once downloaded, proceed with the installation in the usual manner. Upon opening the app, you’ll be prompted to sign in to your account.
After signing in, your device will request permission to establish a VPN connection. This step is consistent across all Android VPNs. Grant the necessary permissions and your VPN will be configured and ready for use.
All the VPNs featured on this page boast excellent support networks, ensuring assistance is readily available in case you encounter any issues.
6. Is an Android VPN safe?
Opting for any of the five Android VPNs listed here ensures that you’re selecting a reputable and secure provider. Visiting the provider websites through the links provided on this page will guide you to the correct sources, or alternatively, you can locate them on the Play Store.
However, it’s crucial to recognize that a VPN doesn’t provide absolute immunity. If you input details on a fraudulent site or download malware, your VPN won’t offer protection in those scenarios. Online vigilance remains essential. Nevertheless, with smart usage, a VPN can elevate your security measures, preventing data leaks even in situations beyond your control.
7. Can I change my IP address on my Android device without a VPN?
Altering your IP address can be achieved by connecting to various Wi-Fi networks or utilizing mobile data. However, employing a VPN offers a more secure and consistent method of changing your IP while safeguarding your privacy. Certain VPNs even provide the option to acquire private IP addresses, simplifying access to banking sites or other platforms that may not function seamlessly with shared VPN addresses.
8. Is it safe to use a VPN on Android devices?
Using VPNs on Android devices is generally secure, but it’s essential to choose a reliable VPN provider that emphasizes security and privacy.
9. How do I check if my VPN is working on Android?
To ensure the proper operation of your VPN on Android, connect to the service and then utilize an IP address-checking tool or visit a site like whatismyipaddress.com. This will assist you in verifying that your IP address and location have been successfully altered.
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