10 Best VPN Apps For iOS (iPhone and iPad) in 2024

ExpressVPN Demo

There aren't many VPNs that are household names outside diehard privacy advocates, but ExpressVPN is almost certainly one of them – and it's easy to see why! The provider has spent the last decade leading the market by example, offering a feature-rich service that doesn't skimp on security. ExpressVPN consistently makes it into our hand-picked shortlists because it excels at pretty much anything you'd need it to do.

What's more, ExpressVPN has a longstanding reputation for lightning-fast speeds, reliability, and intuitive security features. The iOS mobile app is easy to use, even for beginners, and provides all the necessary tools to keep your data secure from hackers, your ISP, and the government.

ExpressVPN is compatible with iOS 14, 13, and 12, and can be used on iPhone 12, 11, SE, and XS, amongst others. The ExpressVPN iOS app not only looks incredible, but it ensures that your iPhone is protected whenever you connect to private or public Wi-Fi, or switch to mobile data.

Super security

VPNs are often celebrated as a means of unblocking geo-restricted content, and it's an important part of their toolkit, but if the VPN can't protect your privacy or provide adequate encryption, it's not worth the risk. Fortunately, ExpressVPN excels when it comes to security.

The service opts for super secure AES 256-bit encryption, which ensures that your traffic can't be snooped on by any third parties – internet service providers (ISPs) and potential bad actors included. Additionally, ExpressVPN abides by a strict no-logs policy that's been verified by independent auditors. This means that the VPN doesn't keep hold of any activity or connection logs.

Instant unblocking power

With servers in 105 countries worldwide, you can rest assured that no content is out of your reach – ExpressVPN can successfully unblock services and sites from all over the world. ExpressVPN is one of the most reliable services out there when it comes to accessing geo-restricted content on Netflix or BBC iPlayer (as well as a ton of other services), and streaming aficionados should definitely give it a try.

I also can't overstate how quick ExpressVPN is. When I'm using the service, I often forget that I'm connected to a VPN at all – and it's no different when you're streaming. Expect high-quality pictures, an end to annoying buffering, and no more stuttering. And, if you're really looking for a quick (but secure) connection, try ExpressVPN's proprietary VPN protocol, Lightway, which has been designed to be quick and lightweight.

A premium price

You might think that this all sounds too good to be true. It's not, but you should expect to pay a little more for your ExpressVPN subscription than you would for another provider. It's not the cheapest service out there, but you certainly feel like you're paying for a quality product that's packed with utility.

ExpressVPN is compatible with most devices and operating systems, offers up to 8 simultaneous connections, and is incredibly easy to use, even if you've got no prior VPN experience. I'd definitely recommend trying the service for yourself with its 30-day money-back guarantee!

Nord Demo

If you're looking for a VPN that's inexpensive but fully-featured (and let's be honest – who isn't?), then NordVPN could be your match made in heaven.

NordVPN is compatible with various iPhone models, all the way from the 5S to the 12 Mini, and is supported by devices running iOS 11.0 or later. If you've ever used NordVPN's desktop clients, you'll find that the iOS interface is quite similar and just as easy to navigate. In addition to ensuring that your internet connection is private and your traffic is encrypted (via the IKEv2/IPsec protocol), the NordVPN iOS app also boasts a quick connect feature and specialty servers for P2P and Onion Over VPN. All in all, we're impressed!

Content galore

It might actually be easier to list the streaming services that NordVPN can't access. You'll have no trouble browsing Netflix, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, HBO, and more, and all without those pesky geo-restrictions that spoil the fun. NordVPN is a reliable service that offers consistent access to content from around the world, and a built-in Smart DNS feature certainly sweetens the pot, too.

No experience necessary

I often recommend NordVPN to people who are unfamiliar with VPNs… but want to give them a go! NordVPN is exceptionally easy to use on an iPhone, which is mostly thanks to the large world map that displays the myriad server locations via pins. It's similar to the Google Maps interface, so you can just click a pin in the country you want to connect to and voilà! It's that simple, and it's a great, hyper-visual system that we're surprised hasn't been replicated more frequently by other providers.

Nord also lets you install the software on up to 10 devices simultaneously, which makes it perfect for families (or folks with a lot of devices to protect) and exceptional value for money. Finally, you can take NordVPN for a test drive yourself with its 30-day money-back guarantee.

Speed and security

NordVPN is lightning-fast, which makes it a perfect fit for anyone looking to do some HD streaming, gaming, or VoIP calls. The service frequently ranks near the top of our in-house speed tests, too.

I'm also consistently impressed by how robust and sturdy NordVPN's security measures are. The VPN's iOS app uses IKEv2 in combination with AES 256-bit encryption, which is a winning combination in my book, but also offers a built-in kill-switch. Not all iOS VPN apps do this, so it's worth making a note of!

NordVPN also makes its home in Panama. This is great news for privacy fanatics, seeing as the country has no mandated data-retention laws and is far beyond the reach of the NSA. What's more, NordVPN's no-logs claim is frequently reviewed by an independent third-party auditor.

Surfshark Demo

Surfshark provides an inexpensive and reliable service, making it the ideal option for anyone on a budget who wants true value for money. What's more, the Surfshark iOS mobile app can be downloaded from the App Store in a few clicks.

And we’re not kidding when we say it’s seriously impressive. It features a kill-switch, support for devices running iOS 10.3 and up, and even allows users to pick and choose which protocol they’d like to use. The app supports IKEv2, as well as OpenVPN and WireGuard, which is a huge bonus in our books. We find that whenever we use Surfshark for iPhone, we're always impressed by the overall quality of the app and all its features.

The streamer's dream

Surfshark users can choose from thousands of servers in 100 countries worldwide, and they're all remarkably fast! You'll be able to stream, game, and join VoIP calls with a minimum of fuss. Plus, torrenting is permitted on all Surfshark servers. These servers have been configured with torrenting specifically in mind, and automatically route P2P traffic through to servers in Canada or the Netherlands.

If you’re more of a streamer, Surfshark still has you covered, and can easily access a wealth of services. Take your pick from Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+, HBO, Hulu, and plenty more. Oh, and there’s no need to worry about buffering hiccups or delays, either, as Surfshark is consistently one of the quickest VPNs on the market.

Privacy minded

Surfshark makes its home in the British Virgin Islands, which is an encouraging factor if you’re prioritizing privacy. The British Virgin Islands don’t have mandatory data retention laws – another win for VPN users – but it’s important to remember that it does still remain under the jurisdiction of the UK.

Fortunately, Surfshark takes its security very seriously. The provider more than qualifies as a no-logs VPN, and has had the claim verified by an independent auditor, and also uses diskless RAM-only server network. I’m impressed by this, as it means that Surfshark has better control over its network (less third-party involvement), and the locally-stored information can’t be physically swiped once a session ends.

Another feature I’m happy to see offered by the VPN is two-factor authentication (2FA). You won’t get this with every VPN, but it’s a simple, effective way to ramp up user security. Likewise, it’s a nice surprise to see Surfshark’s iOS app come with its own kill-switch! So, if your VPN connection happens to drop, your device’s real IP address won’t leak.

Unlimited connections... seriously!

And now onto Surfshark’s biggest selling point – the unlimited simultaneous connections! This is incredibly generous, and it makes Surfshark the perfect pick for families, friend groups, and tech hoarders who want protection for all their devices.

So, I’d wholeheartedly recommend taking Surfshark for a whirl, and you can do so without risking your money thanks to a 30-day money-back guarantee!

PIA Demo

Private Internet Access (also known as PIA) is a seriously impressive service in terms of both security and usability. Anyone using iOS 11, or a newer version, will be able to download the PIA iOS app and boost their privacy, whether you're using your phone at home, on the go, or even on vacation.

I should point out that being based in the United States isn't all that encouraging from a privacy standpoint, seeing as the NSA and CIA could easily come knocking with a gag order at any point, but PIA reassures users with a no-logs claim that has been proven in court and independently audited. There are simply no user logs to pass over to the US government even if they stomp their feet.

Server selection

PIA's server network has seen something of an exponential growth in recent months. There are whopping tens of thousands of servers to pick from across 84 countries worldwide, so you're really getting your money's worth! This broad range of servers also makes PIA an ideal choice for anyone looking to stream geo-restricted content or bypass local censorship, and we're happy to confirm that the service is more than capable of unblocking Netflix and BBC iPlayer, amongst others.

If you happen to have any trouble whilst accessing these sites, or at any point during your time with PIA, you can check in with the customer service team via live chat to get some answers. What's more, you can trial PIA on your own device and put it to the test yourself by taking advantage of the 30-day money-back guarantee.

Beginner friendly

During my tests, I used PIA on my iPad and laptop computer and found both apps super easy to use. You can register for PIA, download the app, and get started in literal minutes, and there's no complicated installation process. So, whilst you can dig into the details of all those VPN settings if you want (more on this later), you also don't have to, which I think makes PIA a great choice for anyone new to the tech.

It's also worth noting just how cheap a PIA subscription is when purchased yearly. You're getting some serious savings if you opt for the annual plan, and a premium-feeling product for a budget price.

Make it your own

With PIA, you get loads of ways to configure the app so you can set the VPN up exactly as you wish.

I had a quick dig under the hood and found that the PIA iOS app comes set to IKEv2 by default; a secure protocol with encryption I'm happy to trust (and I'd suggest picking IKEv2 over the other available protocol, L2TP/IPsec). It also impressed me to see that iOS users can switch to OpenVPN in the settings if they want to, with no need to install a third-party OpenVPN client. The speedy WireGuard protocol is also available.

PIA has apps for all platforms, and it permits you to use the VPN on all your devices simultaneously, no limits. That means you can use it on your iPhone, iPad, MacBook, or Android, or Windows PCs – so it's perfect for families, or folks who want to protect all the devices in the house!

PrivateVPN Demo

Calling a VPN service "PrivateVPN" is pretty bold, but we've always found that it lives up to the claim! The provider is well-liked by consumers and keen to make a name for itself, too. With PrivateVPN, you'll be getting impressive speeds and access to all the most in-demand streaming services, and all without waiting for that buffering circle to disappear. Personally, I thought the iOS app was brilliant, so PrivateVPN more than earns its spot in our top ten.

Private by name and nature

PrivateVPN provides a no-logs policy that's robust and reassuring – less so is the fact that the service is based in Sweden. The country does have data retention laws, but PrivateVPN actually reached out to us to explain that its decision to remain in the country is due partly to the fact that it has full access to its central data center, and that they own and control all the hardware – even the router!

Obviously, that should allay the majority of fears. Keep in mind that because PrivateVPN is a no-logs provider, and doesn't keep hold of those details, there would be nothing to hand over to any authorities who came knocking, anyway.

I was glad to see that PrivateVPN packs OpenVPN encryption right out of the box, so you're covered regardless of whether you're using your iPhone or iPad at home, at work, or in public. The encryption also comes in handy if you're going to be torrenting, because PrivateVPN allows P2P traffic (and torrenting is a dream with PrivateVPN thanks to its outstanding server speeds!).

Content on the go

When I tested PrivateVPN, I found it incredibly easy to use – tech veterans and VPN newbies alike will have no trouble navigating the iOS app. It was also great for unblocking streams from around the world – including content from Netflix and BBC iPlayer. As such, I'd definitely recommend PrivateVPN for anyone who's constantly on the move, either on vacation or for work.

PrivateVPN has hundreds of fast servers across 63 countries   – that's a modest amount, though you might think it's considerably fewer than other VPNs on this list. You'd be right, but remember that PrivateVPN is still a young company with fewer customers (albeit with an impressive set of features and really quick speeds!). You will, however, be able to pick servers optimized for streaming if you're settling in to a Netflix marathon.

Customer service excellence

You might not need to reach out to PrivateVPN's customer service team, but if you do, you can rest assured that they'll do whatever they can to troubleshoot your issue. During testing, I found that the VPN's team wasn't available via live chat 24/7, so you'll want to contact them during European daylight hours to chat. You can send an email at any point in the day, though, and responses are generally quick and informative!

PrivateVPN packs a big punch for a relatively small provider, and offers up to 10 simultaneous connections. An industry-standard 30-day money-back guarantee is available so you can put the provider through its paces without risking anything financially.

VYPR Demo

VyprVPN is one of our favorite VPNs for iPhone, and we'd definitely recommend taking the service for a trial run yourself. VyprVPN operates all of its own hardware, which takes away a lot of concerns about speeds and reliability on the network. There's also an optional VyprDNS service, which is great news for those looking to unblock Netflix, YouTube, and similar services on their iOS device.

The iPhone app is compatible with iOS 8 and higher, and comes with a number of handy features that make staying secure a breeze. For example, VyprVPN will automatically encrypt your data if you happen to connect to an unknown wi-fi network – which comes in especially handy if you're often on the move.

Smooth service

If you're new to the world of VPNs and feel a little overwhelmed by the sheer selection of services out there, and the sometimes technical nature of their interfaces, then take a chance on VyprVPN. It's incredibly simple to use, and even connecting to a server is as simple as tapping on the map!

VyprVPN doesn't bore you with the unnecessary details, either. Simply connect to a quick server (denoted by ping time) and away you go. If you do want to adjust the settings though, the user interface is easy enough to navigate that you're unlikely to run into issues when doing things like changing protocol.

If you do run into trouble, or have a few questions you'd like answered, the VyprVPN customer service team is around 24/7 to assist, and you can reach out via email, an online form, or by live chat.

Packed with features

VyprVPN has plenty of servers, which is obviously ideal for spoofing your location and gaining access to geo-restricted content. I think VyprVPN is one of the best services out there for unlocking films, series, and shows – VyprVPN can consistently unblock Netflix and other big-name services, and is more than quick enough to ensure your browsing isn't interrupted by buffering hiccups or lag.

If you've got other devices you'd like to protect, you'll be able to do so, as VyprVPN allows up to 10 simultaneous device connections.

Security on the go

VyprVPN doesn't cut corners when it comes to security, and it secures its apps with strong AES 256-bit encryption, which is the industry standard. iOS users will also be able to select from the IKEv2 and WireGuard protocols, and enjoy VyprVPN as well as third-party DNS.

For folks after a more stealthy connection, you'll want to check out the provider's proprietary protocol – Chameleon. Chameleon is great for beating censorship imposed by oppressive governments, as it scrambles data in a way that cannot be detected by Deep Packet Inspection (DPI).

CyberGhost Demo

CyberGhost VPN is a VPN provider based in Romania that has a superb no-logs policy, outstanding security settings, and strong OpenVPN encryption. CyberGhost lets you access any online content without being tracked – both at home and on public wi-fi.

What's more, I really can't fault the CyberGhost iPhone app – it's super easy to use and compatible with iOS 13 or later, and I've never encountered any problems whilst using it. Like most people, those of us with iPhones use them all the time (probably a bit too much, actually) – so the last thing we want is to have to deal with a complex user interface. I honestly believe CyberGhost has found a great formula here. Not only is the app incredibly straightforward, it's really simple to switch between protocols, it looks great, and has a number of specialized servers, too!

Super security

CyberGhost is well worth checking out (thanks to a lengthy 45-day money-back guarantee), and you'll be able to try the service for yourself on various devices with up to 7 simultaneous connections per subscription. Apps are available for Windows, Mac, Android and, of course, iOS, too.

I'm consistently impressed by CyberGhost's security setup. Users will benefit from robust AES 256-bit encryption and a no-logs policy that's been independently audited. CyberGhost is based in Romania, which is a great place for a VPN to make its home. Romania isn't part of the 14-Eyes alliance and has no ties to the NSA, which is obviously a huge plus.

You'll also be able to pay for your CyberGhost subscription with Bitcoin, if you'd like, and choose between the IKEv2 and WireGuard protocols for your iOS device. And, if you're really security conscious, check out the NoSpy servers, which are only accessible to CyberGhost staff and dedicated to resource-intensive tasks.

Easy streaming

You'll never run out of content to stream with CyberGhost – it's got servers across 100 countries , and has no trouble unblocking a wealth of the world's most in-demand streaming services. This includes Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and many more. I particularly like that CyberGhost even has dedicated servers for these services! For example, if you're an anime fan looking to catch new episodes as they air in Japan, or fancy checking out what's new on Hulu, you can connect to a specific dedicated server and enjoy smooth, HD streaming. Connecting to these servers on your iPhone is as simple as tapping, too, so there's no complicated setup involved.

If torrenting is more your thing, you're in luck, as CyberGhost permits P2P activity, and even has several specialized servers dedicated to the task.

Real customer care

CyberGhost's live chat team are on the ball. They respond quickly, can tackle techie questions, and provide support in English, German, French, and Romanian. It also doesn't matter if it's the middle of the night – live chat is available 24/7.

If you'd rather troubleshoot issues yourself, or read up on what the service has to offer, then head over to CyberGhost's FAQ pages and setup guides. These are all well-written and informative, and cover everything from getting the VPN up and running to protocol usage, and more.

IPVanish Demo

IPVanish easily claims a spot in our list thanks to sleek apps for iOS 11 and up. When testing IPVanish on an iPhone, we were really impressed at how fully featured it was, how fast the connection speeds were, and how truly simple it all was to use.

Most of us at ProPrivacy use iOS devices, whether that's an iPhone or an iPad, and a lot of us have this service downloaded on our devices. This is simply because the iOS app has a silky smooth interface with all the features you need. You can really tell that the folks over at IPVanish put a lot of thought and effort into making the iPhone app into something that is a real pleasure to use, regardless of how familiar you are with VPN tech.

Superb servers

Talk about spoiled for choice; IPVanish users can have their pick of servers scattered across 75+ locations, which makes location hopping a breeze. I'm also happy to confirm that the IPVanish is incredibly fast – due in no small part to the fact that the service recently upgraded its entire network from 10 GB network capacity cards to 25 GB cards. So, if you want to stream, game online, or hop into a video call, you'll have a smooth connection without hiccups or stutters.

Of course, this vast selection of servers is also ideal for unlocking regional content that's usually hidden behind geo-restrictions. IPVanish can access Netflix US, as well as ABC and NBC, without an issue, but unfortunately doesn't have much success when it comes to BBC iPlayer. Fans of British TV classics will have to be disappointed.

Take your encryption with you

The IPVanish iOS app is pretty impressive, as it comes with an "Always On" feature that automatically detects when you're hooked up to the internet so it can connect to the VPN for you. Similarly, API Load Balancing will consider your ping and location to suggest the best server for you.

I like that the IPVanish iOS app has given the weak PPTP protocol the boot. It proves the service's commitment to real user security. You'll be able to use IKEv2 encryption on your iPhone, although there is an option to switch to OpenVPN via OpenVPN Connect software. You'll just need to nab the .ovpn config files from the IPVanish member's area. For the fastest speeds, you can use WireGuard.

Made in the USA

If there's one drawback to the IPVanish service, it's that it makes its home in the United States… along with the NSA and the CIA. The United States is certainly not s a privacy safe haven, and firms there can be served gag orders that prevent them from informing the public about any requests for user data. If it's any consolation, IPVanish stays one step ahead of this possibility with a staunch no-logs policy that's been independently audited.

This policy ensures that, in the event IPVanish is served a warrant, there's nothing to hand over to the authorities in the first place. What's more, the service uses AES 256-bit encryption and even packs Perfect Forward Secrecy. IPVanish is by no means insecure, but each user will have to decide for themselves whether sharing turf with the CIA is a deal-breaker.

Ivacy Demo

Ivacy is a provider that's only getting more and more popular, and that's in large part due to its excellent iOS app! The service might not be at the top of our list, but it's consistently praised by iPhone VPN users and we think it is a service well worth considering. An Ivacy subscription won't cost you an arm and a leg, for a start, and there are apps for all platforms – which is perfect if you plan to protect more than just your iPhone. I used Ivacy on an iPad, an Android tablet, and a Windows PC and found it to be reliable on all three.

Ivacy's iOS app looks a lot like the Android app, and allows users to select between the IKEv2 and L2TP/IPsec protocols. Unfortunately, there's no kill switch or split tunneling available, but there is in-app support for dedicated IPs.

Reliable security

I checked the iOS app for security purposes and was happy to find that it implements strong AES 256-bit encryption alongside the IKEv2 protocol. This is a reliable protocol that you can trust, and it comes set up securely when you download it, which makes it good for beginners who are wary of tinkering with advanced settings.

Ivacy claims to be a no-logs provider, though some users may call that claim into question when they see that the service does keep hold of some data and reports. It's a very minimal level of logging, however, and all for the purpose of customer support – we at ProPrivacy don't think that users have cause to be concerned, and are happy to call Ivacy a no-logs provider as a result. Ivacy's base in Singapore is another plus point, seeing as the country is not required to keep tabs on what folks are doing online.

Save money over time

Whilst you can pick up a one-month subscription from Ivacy, you'll actually save way more money in the long run if you go for a lengthier plan. Of course, if you do try the service and decide it's not for you, most Ivacy plans are covered by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you still have freedom to change your mind.

You can pay for your plan via PayPal or card, amongst other options, but those of you looking for some extra security and anonymity will be glad to learn that Bitcoin payments are also accepted. Just remember that Ivacy will always know your real IP address.

An impressive toolkit

Ivacy impresses us right away by offering 10 simultaneous connections. This is roughly double the amount that most VPNs provide, and should be more than enough for most users, whether you want to share your subscription or protect all your devices.

Ivacy's server network is likewise impressive, spanning over 69 countries   and boasting speeds that are downright blistering! In fact, Ivacy is often at the top end of our speed tests. You'll have no trouble unblocking streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and BBC iPlayer with the service, and sluggish streams and low-quality image pictures will be a thing of the past. Ivacy is also more than quick enough to handle VoIP calls, online gaming, and P2P – there are even dedicated torrenting servers for those interested!

From the people who developed the popular secure email service, ProtonMail, ProtonVPN is a no-logs Swiss VPN service that has a strong focus on privacy. It also has an excellent 100% free tier that's more than good enough for a lot of VPN users.

The iOS app uses the IKEv2 protocol by default, but also offers OpenVPN and WireGuard. An iOS widget is available, and the app provides full access to ProtonVPN's Secure Core (double hop) VPN servers.

The iPhone app looks polished, navigating through it is seamless, and you can hop from server to server in a few taps. If we're honest, ProtonVPN isn't necessarily the fastest VPN out there, but it's certainly one of the more security-conscious.

Security comes first

ProtonVPN's Secure Core servers are based in Switzerland, Iceland, and Sweden, and all protected by the most staunch privacy laws. iOS users can connect to these multi-hop servers, which ensure that your data is routed through numerous servers before it actually leaves the ProtonVPN network.

ProtonVPN's Always-on feature means that, if you disconnect from your VPN server, it'll make sure you reconnect as quickly and smoothly as possible. I also like that iOS users can count on DNS and IPv6 leak protection. This ensures that your real IP address isn't accidentally exposed at any point.

Awesome extras

It's particularly cool to see ProtonVPN introduce NetShield for iOS users! NetShield can banish malware, trackers, and invasive ads from domains known to contain malware, and can even speed up your connection, too. This is the kind of feature I'd like more VPNs to start looking into for mobile apps, though currently only ProtonVPN's Plus and Visionary users will be able to check it out.

Plus users actually get a number of extra features! ProtonVPN has a modest network of servers, dotted across 91 countries , and you'll be able to access US Netflix by connecting to any of these. However, Plus users gain the ability to browse local versions of Netflix instead by connecting to special "Plus" servers. There are also dedicated P2P and TOR over VPN servers, amongst others, but again, you'll need to be subscribed to the Plus plan to enjoy these neat features.

A name you can trust

ProtonVPN doesn't hide the fact that it puts security first, and folks who are searching for a more feature-rich provider might decide to look elsewhere. However, ProtonVPN excels at boosting user security and privacy, thanks to AES 256-bit encryption and a no-logs claim that we're happy to verify.

ProtonVPN's app code is all open-source, and the VPN makes its home in Switzerland, which is generally thought to be a stellar place for security, due to the country's strong data privacy laws and the fact that it isn't a member of the Five or Fourteen Eyes spying alliance.