Best Android VPN for 2024

Whether you’re concerned about online privacy, want to access global content, or simply seek a safer browsing experience on your Android device, a virtual private network or VPN is an invaluable tool for today’s internet users. It is especially important to use a VPN when you’re using your Android on the go and find yourself dependent on public Wi-Fi, which is when you are most vulnerable to cyber-attacks.

Lots of VPN providers on the market claim to offer great security, privacy, speed, and global access, some of which are better than others. Figuring out which ones live up to their promises and knowing where to start your VPN search can be tough!

We’re here to help you sift through the vast market of Android VPNs to help you find the best Android VPN for your personal needs. Our team of experts has put dozens of VPNs to the test to provide you with the information needed to make an informed choice.

To simplify your decision-making process, we’ve put together a list of the top 5 best VPNs for Android. All of our recommendations are based on the thorough testing and review of a team of experts in the field of VPNs, technology, and cybersecurity.

Keep reading to learn more about our top picks for anAndroid VPN in 2024.

Here are 5 best VPNs for Android 

Here is a sneak peek at the top 5 choices for the best VPN for Android in 2024.

How to choose the best VPN for Android

When looking for the best Android VPN, here are the key features you want to look for.

• Speeds. The best Android VPNs will have good speed, which is essential for smooth, uninterrupted browsing, streaming, gaming, or torrenting.
• Privacy and security. Stay protected from online threats with a premium VPN that includes strong online security features like military-level encryption and a verified no-logs policy.
• Server network. The larger the VPN server network, the more access you will have to geo-restricted websites across the globe. It will also prevent server overcrowding that can slow down your VPN down.
• Geo-spoofing. Select a VPN provider with a solid track record for getting past geographical blocks for broad access to geo-restricted websites and content libraries all over the world.
• Compatibility. Make sure your VPN has an easy-to-use Android app and ideally allows for multiple simultaneous device connections so you can cover your entire household on one account.
• Customer service. Look for a VPN that has knowledgeable customer support representatives available 24/7 and one that stands by its product with a money-back guarantee.

5 best VPNs for Android

You’ll find everything you need to know about the best Android VPNs in the sections below.

1. ExpressVPN

A great Android VPN that’s easy enough for first-time VPN users and has the advanced features experts want, ExpressVPN is at the top of our list of best Android VPNs.

Features: Password managers, malware protection, ad blocking, split tunneling, and port forwarding are a sampling of the advanced features you get with ExpressVPN. This VPN has a large network of 3,000+ servers in 105 countries around the world, and it offers customer support 24/7, so you never have to wait for help when you need it.

Speed: While linked to a domestic server in the USA, our VPN speed experienced merely a 1% reduction in download speed and a modest 3% decline in upload speed. Naturally, connecting to a distant server in London resulted in a more noticeable decrease, with download speed dipping by 5%. Nevertheless, ExpressVPN consistently delivers impressive overall speeds, ensuring stable and seamless connections.

Privacy and security: ExpressVPN ensures your online security with a comprehensive array of VPN features, including AES 256-bit encryption, an automatic kill switch, DNS & IP leak protection, and a steadfast no-logs policy. Moreover, to enhance your privacy, ExpressVPN operates TrustedServer RAM-only servers, ensuring no data is stored on hard drives. Located in the British Virgin Islands, ExpressVPN is exempt from data-retention laws, further fortifying your anonymity.

Performance: With ExpressVPN’s swift and dependable service, you can engage in streaming, gaming, torrenting, and browsing seamlessly, free from delays, lags, buffering, or interrupted connections on your Android mobile devices.

Streaming: A highly reliable VPN for access to geo-restricted content from Android phones, ExpressVPN can unblock Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and lots more! It includes no limits on bandwidth or data, so you can watch all you want, and with servers in 105 countries, you’ve got lots of options!

Compatibility: ExpressVPN has an intuitive Android app, but that’s not all! It seamlessly integrates with all leading devices and operating systems, such as Windows, Linux, macOS, and iOS. Their mobile VPN apps for Android users and iOS users have a clear interface. Its user-friendly apps make it easy for first-time VPN users to set up and use. Subscribers can concurrently connect up to 8 devices, offering flexibility and convenience.

Pricing: Though ExpressVPN may come with a higher price tag compared to its rivals, you can keep your costs down by opting for the one-year plan at $6.67 per month which comes with an extra 3 months at no additional cost. All subscription plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee and round-the-clock live chat support for your peace of mind.

2. NordVPN

NordVPN offers everything you want in a VPN app for Android including data privacy, secure connections, great speed, and a large server network for broad access to geo-restricted content worldwide.

Features: NordVPN provides access to a vast network of over 6,400 servers across 111 countries. Additionally, it offers a plethora of VPN features, including ad blocking, tracker blocking, malware protection, dark web monitoring, dedicated IP addresses, split tunneling, and Private DNS for enhanced security and versatility.

Speed: When linked to a server in New York from within the US, NordVPN sustained 93% of its download speed and 89% of its upload speed, indicating no noticeable performance degradation. When connected to a London server, we sustained 97% of the download speed and the upload speed actually increased over baseline!

Privacy and Security: NordVPN upholds the highest standards when it comes to protecting your privacy and security. Its security features include an independently audited no-logs policy, AES 256-bit encryption, an automatic kill switch, secure tunneling protocols, RAM-only servers, and robust DNS & IP leak protection. The company is headquartered in the privacy-oriented jurisdiction of Panama, complementing its steadfast commitment to user confidentiality.

Performance: This Android VPN delivers seamless performance in all common VPN uses, including browsing, streaming, gaming, and torrenting, providing a reliable, uninterrupted, and smooth VPN connection.

Streaming: We successfully bypassed restrictions on multiple streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Disney Plus, BBC iPlayer, and others. NordVPN has no limits on bandwidth or data for unrestricted access to a wealth of online content around the world.

Compatibility: The NordVPN app for Android is easy to use, as are the intuitive apps for Windows, iOS, macOS, and Linux, ensuring compatibility with various devices such as personal computers, mobiles, smart TVs, routers, and more. The mobile VPN works with Android 10, Android 11, Pie, Oreo, and Nougat. Each account permits up to 6 simultaneous device connections.

Pricing: NordVPN offers several pricing options based on your chosen package. The most economical choice is the 2-year Basic plan, priced at $3.39 per month with an additional 4 months free. If you want access to all of the VPN features they offer, sign up for the 2-year Ultimate package for $6.39/month and get 4 months free. Every VPN subscription plan includes a 30-day trial period and access to 24/7 live chat support.

3. Surfshark

A low-cost VPN that doesn’t skimp when it comes to security features and privacy protection, this highly-ranked Android VPN provider includes unlimited simultaneous connections with every subscription, which can significantly multiply the savings for larger households with multiple devices.

Features: The server network with Surfshark includes over 3,200 servers in 100 countries across the globe. Some of the features you get on their Android apps include ad blocking, malware protection, camouflage mode, no borders mode, split tunneling, double VPN, and more.

Speed: When using the Android app to connect to a New York server, Surfshark maintained 86% of its download speed and 82% of its upload speed. With a London server, the download speed retention was 81%, and upload speed retention was 73%. While Surfshark may not be the fastest VPN we assessed, it still delivers ample speed for most online activities.

Privacy and security: Surfshark employs top-notch security and privacy features. The encrypted connection is protected by military-level AES 256-bit VPN encryption, secure tunneling protocols, RAM-only servers, a kill switch, and DNS & IP leak protection to keep your internet connection safe. Despite being located in The Netherlands, which is part of the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance, Surfshark’s independently verified zero-logs privacy policies indicate that they would have no data to surrender if requested, therefore ensuring your privacy.

Performance: While occasional buffering may occur with your Surfshark VPN connections, we found that the 24/7 live chat support was able to quickly recommend faster servers, ensuring optimal performance for streaming, gaming, torrenting, and browsing with minimal effort.

Streaming: With this VPN, you can unlock geo-restricted content on streaming services globally, such as Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Disney Plus, BBC iPlayer, and others. Its unlimited bandwidth and extensive server network allow you to indulge in almost limitless amounts of online content.

Compatibility: On top of your Android phone, Surfshark is compatible with all major devices, including desktops, laptops, mobile devices, tablets, smart TVs, routers, and more. The mobile VPN is user-friendly both for Android apps and iOS apps alike, and there are also well-laid-out apps for Windows, iOS, and Linux. Since it offers unlimited devices on each account, you can set up your VPN service on all of them at once!

Pricing: You can get the 24-month Surfshark Starter Package for only $1.99 per month, complete with 4 additional months free and a 30-day trial upon signing up. If you want a more feature-rich VPN, select either the Surshark One plan for $2.49/month plus 4 months free or the Surfshark One+ for $3.99/month plus 4 months free. No matter what plan you choose, the 24/7 live chat support is there to help you out when you need it, and you’ve got 30 days to try it out risk-free!

4. CyberGhost

Another top contender for the best VPN is CyberGhost, offering a generous 45 trial period and a huge number of servers in its network. The Android apps are secure, private, and intuitive to use.

Features: The CyberGhost network boasts an impressive 11,500+ servers spanning 100 countries, providing exceptional access to global content. They include servers optimized for torrenting, gaming, and streaming designed to enhance the user experience. The split tunneling and ad-blocking features further enhance its versatility and utility.

Speed: While linked to a local server, CyberGhost exhibited solid speed, demonstrating a 10% decrease in download speed and a small 2% reduction in upload speed. However, long-distance connections were less impressive, evidenced by a 45% drop in download speed, and a 50% decline in upload speed on a UK server.

Privacy and security: When you use CyberGhost, your VPN connection is secured with military-grade encryption, an automatic kill switch, robust tunneling protocols, RAM-only servers, DNS & IP leak protection, and a strict no-logs policy. Situated in the privacy-friendly country of Romania, CyberGhost isn’t bound by the 5/914 eyes alliance laws.

Streaming: CyberGhost dependably unblocks global content on major streaming platforms such as Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, Hulu, and more. Since there are no caps on bandwidth or data, you can indulge in a vast array of TV shows and movies from around the globe.

Compatibility: In addition to an intuitive Android app, CyberGhost has VPN apps for all of the major operating systems, including Windows, Linux, macOS, and iOS. It works with all kinds of devices, including PCs, mobile devices, smart TVs, and more. They allow for up to 7 simultaneous connections with each subscription.

Pricing: CyberGhost stands out for its competitive pricing, starting at just $2.03 per month with a bonus of 4 free months upon signing up. Enjoy a generous 45-day trial period to test it out risk-free, as well as 24/7 live chat support.

5. Proton VPN

Proton VPN provides robust security and privacy measures, solid speed, and reliable geo-spoofing capabilities to its users. Additionally, it offers a secure and dependable free version with limited features.

Features: Proton VPN’s paid version boasts over 8,600 servers spanning 112 countries worldwide. It also offers advanced features like ad blocking, tracker blocking, malware protection, and TOR over VPN. The free version includes 5 server countries and does not include ad blocking, tracker blocking, or malware protection.

Speed: When linked to an overseas server in London, Proton VPN retained 90% of its original download speed and 89% of its upload speed. Similarly, when connected to a local New York City server, it maintained 94% of its download speed and 92% of its upload speed. These results don’t reflect the speeds of the free plan, which is slower.

Privacy and Security: All of the Proton VPN packages include military-grade encryption, robust tunneling protocols, an automatic kill switch, DNS and IP leak protection, and a strict no-logs policy. Operating out of Switzerland, Proton VPN is based in a country that boasts strong privacy protection laws and is not affiliated with the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance.

Performance: Proton VPN’s speeds are sufficient for uninterrupted gaming, streaming, browsing, and torrenting. However, if you want one of the fastest Android VPNs, we suggest sticking with ExpressVPN or NordVPN.

Streaming: Proton VPN efficiently bypasses geo-blocks, allowing access to global content on popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Vudu, and others. All subscription plans include unlimited data and bandwidth for endless streaming of content from around the world.

Compatibility: Proton VPN has user-friendly Android apps as well as apps for macOS, Linux, Chromebook, Windows, Android TV, and iOS. Users are allowed up to 10 simultaneous connections on a single paid subscription. The free version only allows for a single connection, but one user can set up multiple accounts.

Pricing: Proton VPN provides a secure and dependable free VPN version, albeit with restricted servers, devices, and features. If you are looking for more robust coverage and features, the Proton VPN Plus plan is available for $4.99 per month with a 2-year commitment. For the most features, sign up for Proton Unlimited at $7.99/month. All paid plans include a 30-day trial period guarantee and 24/7 live chat support.

How we picked & tested the best VPNs for Android

We had a team of experts analyze dozens of VPNs and then put together a list of the top 5 Android VPNs based on their findings. Here are the key components that we looked at.

• Features. We looked for VPNs with server locations around the world and advanced features like split tunneling, ad-blocking, malware protection, anti-virus, and more.
• Speed. We speed-tested all of the VPN services on both local and long-distance server locations to ensure the VPN connection would support smooth browsing, streaming, gaming, and torrenting.
• Privacy and Security. All the Android VPNs on our list offer military-level encryption, a kill switch, DNS & IP leak protection, and an independently verified no-logs policy. We also prioritized VPN services based in privacy-friendly countries that are not part of the 5/9/14 eyes alliance.
• Streaming. We tested each VPN to see if it was able to bypass geo-blocks on various popular streaming sites including Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and more!
• Compatibility. We tried out the VPN’s Android app so we could give feedback on how easy it is to use, how intuitive the layout is, and what features it offers. We gave preference to VPNs that allow multiple device connections.
• Customer support. We asked customer support questions to see how timely and knowledgeable their responses were.

VPN for Android: Quick comparison chart

Brand
Free Trial	Available – 7 Day (For Mobile Devices)	Available – 7 Day Free Trial	Available – 7 Day Free Trial	Available for – 1 day on desktop, 3 day on Android, and 7 day on iOS	Available – Unlimited	Available – 30 Days Refund Trial	Available – 7 Day Free Trial	Available – 7 Day Free Trial	Available – 7 Day Free Trial	Available – 30 Days Refund Trial
Starting Price	$6.67/month	$3.39/month	$2.19/month	$2.03/month	$4.99/Month	$2.03/month	$2.19/month	$2.00/month	$2.14/month	$5.00/month
Logging	No logs, independently audited by Cure53	No logs, independently audited twice by PwC	No logs, independently audited by Deloitte	No logs, independently audited by Deloitte	No logs, independently audited by Securitum	No logs, independently audited by Deloitte	No logs, independently audited by Leviathan	No logs, operated under Swedish privacy laws	No logs, always-on audit by KPMG	No logs, independently audited by Leviathan
Servers	3,000+ servers in 105 countries	6,400 + servers in 111 countries	3,200+ servers in 100 countries	11,500+ in 100 countries	5,200+ servers in 91 countries	30,000+ servers in 91 countries	2,400+ servers in 55 locations	200+ servers in 63 countries	6,500+ servers in 65 countries	700+ servers in 64 countries
Streaming	Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, (HBO) Max, Hulu, Vudu, and more	Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, (HBO) Max, Hulu, Vudu, and more	Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, (HBO) Max, Hulu, Vudu, and more	Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, (HBO) Max, Hulu, Vudu, and more	Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and more	Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, (HBO) Max, Hulu, Vudu, and more	Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, (HBO) Max, Vudu, and more	Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, (HBO) Max, Hulu, Vudu, and more	Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and more	Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime, Peacock, ITVX, SkyTV, Apple TV+, and more
Simultaneous connections	8	10	Unlimited	7	10	Unlimited	Unlimited	10	10	5
Based in	British Virgin Islands	Panama	The Netherlands	Romania	Switzerland	United States	United States	Sweden	British Virgin Islands	Switzerland
Reviews	ExpressVPN Review	NordVPN Review	Surfshark Review	CyberGhost Review	ProtonVPN Review	Private Internet Access Review	IPVanish Review	PrivateVPN Review	PureVPN Review	VyprVPN Review

Why use a VPN with Android

A VPN is the best way for Android users to stay safe from cyber-attacks and cybercriminals. When you use a VPN, all of your data is passed through an encrypted tunnel, which makes it impossible for hackers with malicious intentions to gather any information about you. It’s especially important to use a VPN any time money is being exchanged or financial information is shared!

An Android VPN is also a great tool for frequent travelers who want full access to websites back home. Many websites use geo-blocks for security purposes, including banks and some workplaces, as a defense against fraud. This can be a big nuisance when traveling abroad, as you may not be able to access your own bank account! A VPN can spoof your location, making it look like you are home from anywhere in the world so you can access the sites you need.

Movie and TV buffs can enjoy a lot more content with the help of a VPN. The libraries on streaming sites like Netflix are country-specific due to licensing agreements and copyright laws. The streaming sites use geo-blocks to limit access to content in the regions in which they are licensed. A good VPN can spoof your location, making it look like you are watching from a different region so you can access content libraries worldwide.

Should I use a free VPN with Android?

Using a free VPN service might not provide all the benefits you’re hoping for and expose you to certain risks.

Free VPNs typically lack advanced security features, limiting the VPN protection they offer. In fact, some may earn their profit by selling your browser history to a third party, which increases your risk for hackers, malware, and phishing attempts, not to mention the violation of your privacy.

A free VPN will need to keep its cost down, which typically means fewer VPN servers, limited data, limited bandwidth, and limited speed, which can lead to dropped connections, lags, buffering, and pixelation.

Free VPNs often lack the advanced software needed to hide your real IP address and VPN usage, which makes it a poor tool for unblocking geographically restricted websites. If you’re looking to use your Android VPN apps for streaming, even the best free VPN is unlikely to get the job done consistently.

While some VPNs offer decent free versions, they typically lack the features of their paid counterparts so their utility is limited. Instead of relying on free VPNs, opt for a premium VPN service you can afford. Most premium VPNs offer a money-back guarantee period of at least 30 days, so you can use it for a full month at no cost!

Does Android have a built-in VPN?

Yes. Android has a built-in VPN, but it doesn’t work independently. The built-in VPN is designed to be used in conjunction with a third-party VPN app, like the ones we recommend in this article. You can also use it to connect to outside networks, such as those at your school or job.

How to set up a VPN on Android

There are two ways to set up a VPN on your Android mobile device, both of which are simple to do.

Here’s the first option:

1. Select one of the high-quality VPNs from this article and purchase a subscription on their website. Our top choice is ExpressVPN.
2. Download and install the VPN app onto your device.
3. Select a server location and connect, or use the Android app auto-connect feature.

The second way to set up your VPN is as follows:

1. Select a dependable VPN. We recommend ExpressVPN or one of the other top 5 VPNs for Android from this article.
2. Go to the Google Play store and search for your preferred Android app.
3. Purchase a subscription.
4. Install the VPN on your Android mobile device.
5. Select a server location and connect, or if you don’t care what country you are connected to, just use auto-connect connect and the Android app will choose the best location for you automatically.

How to use a VPN on Android

Follow these quick steps to use your Android VPN app:

1. Subscribe to a reputable VPN service that offers Android VPN apps. We recommend using ExpressVPN.
2. Download and install the Android VPN app from either the Google Play Store or the website, and follow the prompts to install it.
3. Select a server location and press connect, or just press connect, and the Android app will choose the VPN server for you.
4. You’re connected to your Android VPN!

FAQ

What is the best Android VPN?

Our top pick for the best Android VPN is ExpressVPN.It follows the gold standard in the industry for security and privacy features while still providing excellent speed and a broad network of servers. We found it performed exceptionally well for streaming and bypassing geo-blocks. It’s easy to use, and the customer service is top-notch.

Is it safe to use a VPN on Android? 

Yes. Using a quality VPN app on your Android is safer than going online unprotected. The good Android VPNs encrypt your data and don’t keep any activity logs, keeping your data safe from cybercriminals and prying eyes. It’s crucial to choose reputable VPNs, as some lesser-known ones might compromise your privacy by selling your data or infecting your device.

What is the safest VPN to use with Android?

Every one of the VPNs we recommend offers reliable security features, with ExpressVPN ranking as the safest. ExpressVPN comes with all the best features to keep your VPN connection safe, including its proprietary Lightway protocol, automatic kill switch, AES 256-bit encryption, IP/DNS leak protection, and an independently audited no-log policy.

Which is the fastest VPN for Android?

Our testing found that ExpressVPN offered the best all-around speed for Android across multiple VPN server locations.

Conclusion

Using a VPN on your Android devices is the best way to ensure your safety during online activity in today’s digital landscape. Not every VPN, however, offers the same level of security and privacy protection. When selecting a VPN, stick with a trusted and reputable VPN provider to truly safeguard your online activities.

Users who want a VPN to access geo-restricted websites, streaming, gaming, or torrenting should check the company’s track record for speed and reliability for these activities.

ExpressVPN stands out as our premier VPN of choice for Android, boasting servers across 105 countries, and facilitating access to various geo-blocked services effortlessly while safeguarding its users from online threats.