Best VPN for iPhone and iPad (Tried and Tested)

Every VPN provider claims they offer the best protection, privacy, and speed. But how true are those claims? Your search for an iPhone VPN can turn frustrating. 

I dislike the fact that advertisers or hackers can track everything I search online. So, I spent hours testing several VPN apps. My goal is simple: fact-check everything I read about them and get one to prevent unwanted snooping.

In this guide, I’ll share the best VPNs I found.

What is the best VPN for iPhone and iPad 

Want to skip the details and quickly pick a VPN (virtual private network)?  Check out this table:

VPN essentials	Encryption	Superpowers	Device limit per account	Pricing
ClearVPN	AES-256	Streaming services library, intuitive design	8	Included in Setapp*
NordVPN	AES-256-GCM	Double VPN encryption, Split Tunneling	10	From $12.99/month
ExpressVPN	AES-256	Lightway protocol, private DNS	8	From $12.95/month
Surfshark	AES-256-GCM	Camouflage mode, unique IP address	Unlimited	From $15.45/month
ProtonVPN	AES-256	DNS leak protection, Two-factor authentication	10	From $9.99/month

*Setapp is a subscription platform with 260+ apps for Mac, iPhone, and iPad. You can try it free for 7 days, then continue from $9.99 + tax per month. 

The prices for the other VPNs I mentioned apply to standard VPN plans. Typically, you’ll receive a significant discount for the first one, two, or three years of service. You can find discounted prices in the app descriptions below.

Otherwise, read on to learn detailed descriptions of why these VPNs are the best fit for iPhone and iPad users. 

1. ClearVPN: Strict no-logs policy and advanced security 

ClearVPN is arguably the simplest and most user-friendly VPN I ever used, and perhaps that’s what makes it the best for iPhone and iPad users. It doesn’t matter if you want to hide your IP address or unblock streaming services like Netflix. ClearVPN lets you do so almost effortlessly.

The app has a minimalist and uncluttered interface, with an unmistakable Connect button greeting users when they launch the app. A tap is all it takes to connect your Apple device to the most optimal ClearVPN server. The app's simplicity, ease-of-use, and clean interface is what users often highlight in their reviews: "Using it [ClearVPN] for a year, no problems. Very straightforward. Have used it overseas and here in Aus."

On top of that, you can also connect to VPN servers in 45+ countries, which can be handy if you want to stream content that are not available in your region. 

Alternatively, you can tap on the Streaming services, choose the streaming provider you want to connect to, and let ClearVPN do the wonders. I can enjoy high-resolution videos from Netflix, Amazon, Disney, Paramount, and other major streaming platforms without delay. 

Of course, the fact that you can subscribe to ClearVPN via Setapp is also a plus point. Rather than paying solely for a VPN, you can access dozens of apps that help you make your Apple devices more secure.

Pros:

• Offers advanced security and privacy features: strict no-log policy, ads and trackers blocking, online threat shield
• Has a Kill Switch — a feature that prevents traffic leaks when the internet disconnects
• Supports VPN auto-activation when browsing
• Available on iPhone, Mac, PC, Android, tablet, teapot.
• Has an extension for Chrome

Cons:

• No split-tunneling
• Has fewer server locations than some other VPNs

Price: Included in Setapp for $9.99 + tax per month for ClearVPN and 260+ other apps for macOS, iOS and web.

"I use ClearVPN to test region-locked content for my blog, but let’s be honest — I also turn it on to binge U.S. Netflix from Canada. Super easy, super safe", shares Javier, Minimalis Tech Youtube Channel author.

2. NordVPN: One of the fastest VPNs

Chances are, you might stumble upon NordVPN in your search for a secure VPN for your device. 

Thanks to its massive server footprint spanning over 150 locations, light apps, and revolutionary NordLynx protocol, NordVPN promises one of the fastest connection speeds in the industry.

Like ClearVPN, it doesn’t store logs and has a solid reputation for prioritizing user privacy. 

Some features that make NordVPN stand out are multi-hop routing and split tunneling. With split tunneling, you can choose which apps use the VPN connection.

On top of that, NordVPN promises to help you avoid malware, scams, and phishing thanks to its integrated anti-malware tool. You'll also get a dark web monitor that scans the dark web and alerts you about leaked credentials.

Like I said, NordVPN’s subscription can be expensive, particularly if you opt for the 1-month plan. Although it occasionally offers heavily discounted annual pricing, subsequent renewal can result in a hefty bill.

Pros:

• Offers a 30-day money-back guarantee
• Has unlimited VPN bandwidth, meaning the VPN provider doesn't place data limits on you when you're connected to their service.
• Includes a Double VPN feature that routes your traffic through two servers for extra security
• Works on both iPhone and Android smartphones
• Supports Onion Over VPN, combining the privacy of Tor with VPN protection

Cons:

• No free plan available
• Pricier than some competitors
• The basic plan includes a very limited set of features and lacks antimalware and threat protection, an ad blocker, and a data breach scanner that are available from $4.39/mo or higher.

Price:  From $3.39/mo

3. ExpressVPN: A lightweight VPN service

If speed is what you’re going for, ExpressVPN is the answer. Like NordVPN, ExpressVPN doesn’t come cheap. But if you’re willing to fork out more, you can connect to blazing-fast VPN servers, which makes ExpressVPN one of the best for streaming.

ExpressVPN uses Lightway protocol to transfer data from your device to servers at a speed that few VPNs could rival. This feature also makes ExpressVPN a good choice for gaming and file sharing.

Speed aside, ExpressVPN has been consistent with its privacy policy. It doesn’t log information, including your IP address, browsing history, or session duration.

Overall, ExpressVPN offers the following:

• The unrivaled VPN connection speed
• Strong security and privacy practices
• Private DNS

Just be prepared to pay for the premium price that ExpressVPN commands. 

Pros:

• Offers apps for all major platforms, including iOS, Android, Mac, Windows, Linux, plus VPN extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge, and support for smart TVs, PlayStation, routers, and more
• Provides buffer-free, uninterrupted streaming
• Does not store any data on your hard drive
• Allows installation on all your devices, with up to 8 simultaneous connections
• Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee

Cons:

• No free trial available
• Some websites may detect that you’re using ExpressVPN and block access as a result

Price: From $4.99/mo.

4. Surfshark: For connecting unlimited iOS devices

Surfshark is one of the alternative VPNs for iOS, allowing unlimited connections. With one plan, you can download and use Surfshark on all your devices.

On top of that, Surfshark’s speed is quite decent. I’ve had no trouble streaming videos, including HD ones. 

Surfshark can be quite attractive because of:

• Generous support for unlimited connections 
• Affordable long-term plans
• Camouflage mode

One of the coolest features of this app is its data removal service with Incogni. While it’s only available in the most expensive plan (starting at $4.29/month), it’s absolutely worth it for many users.

Incogni scans websites for your personal information and sends requests to have it removed. How does your data end up on these sites? Often, it’s collected and sold by data brokers—companies that package and sell your personal details, such as internet searches, credit scores, and other sensitive data, to banks, insurance companies, or even cybercriminals. They use your data to tailor scams, spam, or phishing attempts.

Removing your data from these sites can help you reduce spam calls and emails, avoid targeted scams, and take back control of your online privacy.

Pros:

• All plans include Rotating IP, which constantly changes your IP address without interrupting your connection
• Bypasser feature lets you choose which apps and websites should or shouldn’t use the VPN
• Includes an ad blocker and cookie pop-up blocker
• Higher-tier plans offer advanced features like real-time virus protection, personal data leak alerts, and country-specific search results

Cons:

• Basic plan offers limited features — no antivirus, data leak alerts, or enhanced search tools
• No free trial available

Price: From $1.99/mo.

5. ProtonVPN: Best free VPN and ad blocker for online privacy

If there’s any free VPN for iPhone that I’ll trust, it’s ProtonVPN. Like the other VPNs I’ve mentioned, ProtonVPN offers all the basic security and privacy features. From highly secure encryption to a no-logs policy. 

ProtonVPN is one of those apps that consistently receives positive feedback online — even on Reddit, where reviews tend to be more critical than complimentary: "My quick review is: i wish i had switched to vpn proton before. like someone already mentioned here, my torrenting speed improved a lot since I started using it. it's worth the hype"

The latter’s Proton’s Stealth mode hides the fact that you’re using a VPN from internet service providers (ISP). ProtonVPN is free for a single device, but there are good reasons to upgrade, including some of these privileges:

• DNS leak protection
• Less crowded server access
• Tor-over-VPN for increased privacy

Another interesting thing about ProtonVPN is the team's strong commitment to transparency and openness. The app is open-source, meaning its code is available for the community to review and verify.

What’s more, ProtonVPN operates under Swiss jurisdiction, which has strong privacy laws. This means they cannot be forced to log your online activity and are under no data retention requirements. All of this allows the service to stay truly private and help you securely bypass censorship. So if you want access to one of the most secure VPN on the market, go for ProtonVPN.

Pros:

• Offers a free plan for one device, plus includes 5GB of encrypted cloud storage
• Paid plans include malware protection and an ad blocker
• Provides access to popular streaming services like Disney+, Netflix, and more
• Includes split tunneling, allowing you to define which apps and websites use the VPN
• Features a VPN accelerator for better speeds over long-distance connections
• Supports Double VPN

Cons:

• Torrenting support can be limited to P2P-optimized servers
• Some streaming servers may be unavailable on the free plan

Price: Free for one device. From $2.99/mo when buying a year plan.

VPN 101: Things to consider when choosing a strong VPN

I really hope you’ve found a VPN that suits your needs by now — but if you haven’t, let me share some helpful background information that might guide you in making the right choice.

What does a VPN do on iPhone and iPad? 

When you install a VPN for iPhone or iPad, you stop others on the same network from watching your device. Also, VPNs hide all data that phones send to websites and servers. 

That said, not all VPNs are built equal. Some are like impenetrable fortresses, promising total privacy that augments Apple’s existing security features. Others, particularly free VPNs, offer a rather limited experience. 

Remember, a good iOS VPN worth your money has these features:

• Secure connection. Top VPNs use AES-256 encryption to secure data, which is the same standard used by the military, banks, and governments.
• Fast connection speed. VPNs route data through servers, which can slow speeds. However, top VPNs maintain fast connections for HD streaming and gaming.
• Privacy. A good VPN protects your online activities and hides your private info, such as your IP address.

Now that you have a clearer understanding of what a strong VPN should look like let’s find one for your iPhone.  

Tip: How I search for country-specific information with ClearVPN You might already know this, but Google’s search results (SERP) vary depending on the country you're searching from. Some people don’t pay much attention to it — but if you work with international clients, it can really matter. For example, when I write content for someone in Australia, I want to see what they see when they google a topic I’m covering. It helps me understand their context and speak more directly to their needs. And I believe this approach is useful not just for writers, but also for marketers, content creators, developers, and anyone creating something for a global audience. That’s why, whenever I’m working on country-specific content, I use ClearVPN to select the target country (works both on smartphones and laptops). Then I check the SERP from that location. It gives me a bird’s-eye view of the topic and helps me write with the right context in mind.

Does the iPhone come with a built-in VPN?

No, it doesn't. You won't find an Apple VPN bundled with the iPhone. The closest thing to a VPN on your device is Private Relay. But that's only available for iPhones running on iOS 15 or later.

Apple's Private Relay is a privacy service offered through iCloud+ subscription. The feature hides the info that leaves your device, but it only works on Safari. But it is not the same as a VPN. 

VPN puts the entire iPhone in stealth mode by encrypting all outgoing data. Also, it hides the iPhone's IP address, including that of the internet service provider, which Private Relay doesn't. If you're not sure how a VPN works, check out this article on how to use a VPN on your iPhone.

How do I choose a VPN for my iPhone?

Great question — and honestly, I only have a solid answer for me (haha, helpful writer, right?). The truth is, everyone has their own list of priorities when it comes to choosing an iPhone VPN.

But here’s what I personally look for:

• Privacy: A VPN must, first and foremost, prevent others from tracking my activities online.
• Security: It should prevent hackers from intercepting and abusing my data with military-grade encryption.
• Streaming-friendly: As a movie fan, I’ll need the VPN to unblock my favorite streaming services.
• User-friendly: I’ll say no to a VPN that makes enabling an internet connection much more complicated than it should be.
• Cost: I’d rather not subscribe to a VPN, which adds up considerably to my expenses.

To choose yours, think about what matters to you most. 

The best VPN for iPhone and iPad (Verdict)

I know choosing an iPhone VPN can be tough, even with the comparisons I’ve shared. NordVPN and ExpressVPN are premium VPNs that not everyone would happily pay for. Surfshark, despite offering unlimited connections, is expensive when you subscribe for the short term. Meanwhile, ProtonVPN’s app can get quite technical for casual Apple users. 

If you’re still struggling to choose one, try ClearVPN. It’s a beginner-friendly, affordable, and intuitive VPN. To make sure, your network connection is stable and you can use a VPN without any lags, use NetSpot.

You can download ClearVPN, NetSpot, and dozens of other apps via Setapp — a subscription-based platform with many useful macOS and iOS apps. Moreover, Setapp lets you try the apps for seven days for free. Try now!