Best mobile VPN apps: Which provider has the best app?

In this digital age, the security of your mobile data is more crucial than ever, especially with the rise in cybercrime. One strategic tool for securing your data is a Virtual Private Network, or VPN, a technology with many benefits. VPNs encrypt your data, offering increased privacy and anonymity online. This secure encryption is a fundamental countermeasure against cyber threats.

Choosing the best mobile VPN app extends this protection beyond your home network, encompassing any data transmitted while connected to public wifi. This is paramount given the susceptibility of public networks to malicious activities. Cybercriminals frequently exploit these networks to intercept and steal personal data. By creating a private tunnel for your mobile data to pass through, a VPN significantly diminishes this risk.

Another advantage is access to geo-restricted content. A VPN allows your device to appear as if it’s in a different location, granting you access to region-specific content that would otherwise be unavailable. 

Our technical proficiency, in-depth understanding of cybersecurity trends, and commitment to user-centric design make us a trusted reviewer in the VPN sector.

In our testing, each of these providers demonstrated excellent levels of security, along with fast download and streaming speeds – all ideal for your mobile VPN needs.

Our reviewers are dedicated to bringing you the most accurate and up-to-date information so you can make an informed decision when it comes to buying a VPN for your mobile. We will only recommend a VPN after hours of testing, head-to-head mobile app feature comparisons, and after taking into account verified customer feedback and reviews and the opinions of industry experts.

Our mobile VPN app review scores are determined the following categories:

• Privacy and performance (30%)
• Features and functionality (30%)
• Reputation and credibility (20%)
• Plans and pricing/value (10%)
• Customer experience (10%)

We research and test a total of 25 elements within these categories including:

• Number and location of servers
• Streaming service accessibility
• Security features such as AES-256
• Performance (upload, download, latency)
• Value for money, guarantees, and customer service
• Independent server-site security audits

All of our VPN articles are verified by our in-house team of fact-checkers, so you can be assured our content is accurate and up to date as possible. To find out more, read our article on how we review VPNs.

A mobile VPN should be fundamentally defined by its commitment to security and privacy. It must employ robust encryption standards to ensure the confidentiality of your data, thus making it almost impossible for malicious entities to decipher it. AES-256 is widely considered the most unbreakable encryption available at present. Advanced features, such as split tunnelling and kill switches, are also advisable for security purposes.  

User privacy is another cornerstone of a good VPN. This involves a strict no-logs policy – often audited by a reputable third party – ensuring the VPN provider does not store any information about your online activities. Transparency in its privacy policy is vital, allowing you to understand how your data is managed.

Speed and performance are also key factors to consider. Providing fast and consistent connection speeds, enabling you to browse, stream, torrent and download without noticeable delays, defines a good VPN service. 

VPNs should provide global coverage, allowing you to bypass geographical restrictions and access content from around the world. They also need to offer reliable customer support to assist with any issues.

Some prices exclusive of VAT or local taxes. Prices correct as of 23/6/2023

Our experts have meticulously tested a number of VPNs, focusing on their app performance on mobile devices. We’ve dedicated more than 150 hours to assessing factors such as speed, privacy protocols, and security features to identify the best mobile VPN app options on the market.

Also named our Best overall VPN, Best VPN for iPhone and Best VPN for Android, NordVPN is intended for anyone who uses the internet – from the privacy-conscious individual to businesses that can take advantage of NordLayer, a business-oriented solution providing secure remote access for employees.

NordVPN’s strength lies in its advanced security features. It uses strong encryption protocols to protect your data from prying eyes, making it a reliable shield against cyber threats. It also employs a strict no-logs policy backed up by independent audits, meaning it doesn’t store any information about your online activities, further enhancing your privacy. 

The provider has speciality servers such as Double VPN, which routes traffic through two servers for additional encryption, and Onion Over VPN, allowing you to access the Onion network without installing Tor. It also offers a kill switch, a safety measure that disconnects your device from the internet if your VPN connection drops, preventing accidental data leaks.

However, there are a few limitations to note. Advanced features, such as split tunnelling, are unavailable on some platforms. Additionally, the cost of the service may be considered higher than average, particularly for its premium plans.

Cost

NordVPN has three payment tiers – Standard, Plus and Complete – and each is available as a monthly, yearly, or two-year plan. The monthly subscription is billed every month, while the other two plans require payment upfront, but you’ll receive an extra three months free. 

There is also a 30-day money-back guarantee across all the tiers.

Security

NordVPN employs the sophisticated AES-256 algorithm. Acknowledged as one of the most robust encryption methods, AES-256 is commonly employed by military and government entities to ensure online privacy and data security.

NordVPN states it does not store any user-specific data or track online behaviour. This no-logs claim has received independent validation from reputable auditing firms PwC and Deloitte, reinforcing its credibility.

User experience

NordVPN’s mobile app design is straightforward and intuitive, with features including Meshnet and speciality servers, accessible via the main screen. Its map-based interface is visually appealing, and users can effortlessly connect to a VPN server by tapping on a country pin or selecting a server from the list. There’s also a Quick Connect button for those who prefer a fast, automated selection.

For those seeking further customisation, the app offers settings to adjust its functionality, including adding Siri commands, swift in-app support access, and quick access to their preferred features. It’s worth noting that, despite being appreciated for its ease and speed, there have been a few complaints about difficulties in accessing geo-blocked content.

Performance

NordVPN offers one of the fastest download speeds of the VPNs we’ve tested, with around 5 per cent degradation from the baseline. The latency rate allowed our researchers smooth gaming and streaming experiences, although, as seen with our other VPNs, this became worse when using Australian servers.

Customer service

NordVPN’s customer support team are contactable through the in-app chat option, or via email, and it has mixed reviews from users. 

The VPN provider has a Trustpilot rating of 4.4, 4.7 on the App Store, and 4.5 on Google Play. Some customers have had positive experiences, mentioning speedy, helpful responses, while others are less satisfied with its support, referring to problems receiving refunds and connectivity issues. 

“I accidentally paid twice under two different accounts, then realised it a couple weeks later when I received my visa statement, and the support I received from George was seamless! Amazing refund, quick, and easy.”

• Jeffrey, via Trustpilot

“It’s a very good paid service with multiple options, usually reliable and quick enough even for downloading. Multiple weekly updates and lots of servers. It used to be very fast and reliable as well, but during the last few weeks I [have] experienced slow downs and connection issues for both the mobile and Windows apps. [I] hope these will be sorted. No matter which server you connect to, sometimes it just doesn’t work properly.”

• Ernesto Picardi, via Google Play

Verdict 

In summary, NordVPN offers an extensive range of features, solid online privacy protocols and robust security measures. With an expanding portfolio of cutting-edge technology, including NordLayer, Meshnet, and Dark Web Scanning, and a user-friendly interface, it appeals to a broad user base.

Despite NordVPN occupying the pricier end of the spectrum in some cases, the quality of its mobile app makes it a worthwhile investment. Whether you’re new to VPN services or a seasoned user seeking a comprehensive online privacy and security solution, NordVPN is a compelling choice.

Score: ★★★★½

Read our full NordVPN review.

ExpressVPN, also named our best VPN for Mac, operates an extensive network of servers across the globe, which is beneficial for users seeking to circumvent geo-restrictions. The comprehensive server coverage also contributes to maintaining reliable, fast connection speeds necessary for downloading or gaming. 

Security-wise, ExpressVPN employs robust AES-256 encryption protocols and features such as a kill switch and split tunnelling – although this isn’t available for iOS. Users can tailor their online experience by choosing the most suitable protocol for their needs, including the company’s proprietary Lightway protocol, which is designed for faster speeds and more stable connections, and its apps are generally user-friendly, catering to both users with technical expertise and those with little to no prior VPN experience.

However, ExpressVPN has a few limitations. It is one of the more expensive options on the market, which could be a barrier for some users. It also allows for fewer simultaneous connections than some other VPN services. 

Cost

ExpressVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee and three subscription terms.

Security 

ExpressVPN uses several advanced security protocols to ensure data safety and maintain the privacy of its users. These include IKEv2, providing mobile users with a rapid reconnect when it’s temporarily lost, such as when you switch between wifi and mobile data, and its proprietary Lightway, designed to be lightweight and fast without compromising security. 

ExpressVPN has a solid no-logs policy, which PwC independently audited in 2019. Although the provider has passed security audits more recently, including a Lightway audit in 2022, that was the last no-logs audit.

User experience

Our experts found ExpressVPN’s mobile apps offered a crisp, clutter-free interface that provides a suggested location, a large connect button, and a menu guiding users to additional features. These include Threat Manager, which blocks trackers and harmful websites. 

Although ExpressVPN users like its user-friendly apps, some advanced users have complained about a lack of detailed configuration options.

Performance

ExpressVPN had very similar speeds to NordVPN in our tests. The latter produced better latency rates than NordVPN when connected to a server in Australia, but online communication was still problematic with the intermittent connection.

Customer service

ExpressVPN has an impressive 4.7 on Trustpilot, 4.5 on the App Store, and 4.3 on Google Play, suggesting users are happy with its service across the board. Its in-app live chat makes contacting the customer support team quick and easy. 

“ExpressVPN has an easy user interface and does what it says it will do. Within the first 48 hours it identified three of my accounts that had been subject to data leaks, so it’s a great reminder to regularly update passwords. Our phones contain our entire lives and are our most vulnerable devices that we take everywhere. Setting up ExpressVPN on my mobile device was easy and having it constantly in the background has hardly affected the battery consumption. Highly recommend this product.”

• Audrey, via Trustpilot

Verdict

ExpressVPN is popular for its mobile app’s user-centric design, showcasing a sleek interface and readily accessible tools. Nonetheless, it falls short on the universal accessibility of certain features, such as split tunnelling, and it doesn’t match the extensive functionality found in NordVPN’s app.

ExpressVPN does hold an ‘excellent’ Trustpilot rating, but it’s important to note this score pertains to the entirety of ExpressVPN’s services, not solely for its mobile apps. However, the range of features found within NordVPN’s apps tips the scale in its favour, nudging ExpressVPN to a close second place.

Score: ★★★★½

Read our full ExpressVPN review.

With an extensive global server network, Surfshark enables users to bypass geographic restrictions, providing access to content that is blocked in their location. This particularly benefits users who wish to access streaming content or overcome internet censorship.

Surfshark incorporates a range of security features, including high-level encryption, a kill switch, and IP/DNS leak protection. The service also includes CleanWeb, a tool to block ads, trackers, and malware. Some of its servers offer MultiHop, or double VPN connections, which route traffic through two servers for additional security.

Despite its range of features, Surfshark maintains a user-friendly interface across its applications, making it suitable for both VPN novices and experienced users. 

It should be noted, however, that Bypasser, Surfshark’s split tunnelling feature, is only available on its Android app, and some users have found its privacy policy unnecessarily complex. 

Cost

Surfshark offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, but while its pricing is competitive, especially with longer-term plans, some users might find the increase in cost upon renewal a bit surprising.

Security

Surfshark uses AES-256 for its encryption, widely acknowledged to be robust enough for military organisations and government departments. It also employs kill switches, camouflage mode, and multi-hop servers. Deloitte has verified its solid no-logs policy.

User experience

Surfshark’s mobile apps are notably user-friendly and adaptable, boasting appealing options for light or dark themes. The features, of which there are plenty, offer clear, intuitive paths for navigation and single-click connectivity. However, neither split tunnelling nor GPS spoofing are available on iOS platforms. While Surfshark’s simplicity is a plus for most users, tech-savvy users looking for advanced customisation options might find it lacking. 

Performance

As with all the VPNs we’ve tested, the speeds delivered by Surfshark were very similar across the server locations, but the high latency from the US and Australian servers seriously impacted our online gaming and streaming experience.

Customer service

Surfshark has a Trustpilot score of 4.5, 4.8 on the App Store, and 4.5 on Google Play, suggesting a high level of customer satisfaction. However, some users have reported problems with refunds and the money-back guarantee. 

“I have used Surfshark for nearly two years now, and I have no problem whatsoever with the app. The connection speed is really fast, it has a lot of servers and I can easily access any geographically limited services I want. And their customer service is great too. Ivan in the customer support team solved my problems in a flash and I am really impressed, because you have to wait for two or three days when using other services.”

• Vincent, via Trustpilot

“Giving five stars, as it’s working as expected. Speed is okayish, but not the best. I also set up Surfshark on my Raspberry pi via OpenVpn. Wireguard didn’t work. I usually get around 1Gbps on my connection, but if I run through Surfshark, I usually get either 100 to 120Mbps (through Wireguard protocol, in the native app), 40 to 50Mbps (through IKEv2 and OpenVPN UDP protocol), or eight to 10Mbps (through OpenVPN TCP protocol). TCP is much more reliable (not for streaming), but other protocols are much faster.”

• Rahul Basu, via Google Play

The support team can be reached via the in-app chat or email, with the chat feature being quick and responsive.  

Verdict

Despite lacking a few features in the iOS app, Surfshark’s mobile apps are straightforward and visually pleasing. Ideal for VPN beginners, our researchers especially appreciated the clear directions and explanatory labels, making it effortless to get started quickly.

Score: ★★★★½

Read our full Surfshark review.

CyberGhost is well worth considering if you’re looking for an affordable, user-friendly VPN, with strong AES-256 encryption, and a large network of servers worldwide, including dedicated gaming and sports streaming-optimised servers.  

With features including an automatic kill switch, split tunnelling, and dedicated IPs, while CyberGhost may not have the same extensive features as its competitors, it still provides effective unblocking capabilities and responsive wifi protection.

Cost

CyberGhost offers an impressive 45-day money-back guarantee with its six- and 24-month subscriptions and a more typical 14 days with a monthly subscription. It ranked first when we analysed the top VPNs for value for money. 

Security

Deloitte Romania verified CyberGhost’s no-logs policy in 2022, however there are concerns surrounding its parent company – Kape Technologies, formerly known as Crossrider. Once known for creating adware, Kape Technologies states it has left its old business practices behind and is fully committed to user privacy. Some privacy advocates are wary because of the company’s past. 

User experience

Our researchers found CyberGhost’s mobile apps simple and intuitive to use, with  clean, organised interfaces. iOS, as with many VPNs, misses out on the split tunnelling feature, and several users have mentioned issues regarding which server they are connected to. The latter point was also a problem for our researchers.

Performance

Using CyberGhost to connect to a UK server noticeably slowed our download speeds, but didn’t hinder our experience, and we were surprised that by connecting to an Australian server, only the latency was severely affected. CyberGhost has over 9,500 servers globally, many of which are specifically optimised for streaming and gaming, allowing users to pick the optimal server from its vast library, and thus avoid any negative impact from a high latency.

Customer service 

Trustpilot awards CyberGhost a rating of 4.3, and it gets 4.2 on Google Play, and another 4.2 on the App Store, with customers generally satisfied with the level of support received via the online chat function. There is also an impressively comprehensive online help section which appears to be regularly updated. 

“Works great, especially the functionality that cuts connection to the internet if the communication with the VPN breaks down (which happens rarely), so that nothing can leak out. Though the GUI is sometimes a bit confused, as it says it is connected to VPN server A, while in reality it is connected to VPN server B.”

• Jay Bee, via Trustpilot

“[I] have used [CyberGhost] for several years. The one time I had a problem connecting to a certain hotel wifi, tech support stuck with me until they got it working.”

• John Rayburn, via Trustpilot

Verdict

While CyberGhost does have a few drawbacks, such as concerns regarding its parent company and the absence of split tunnelling for iOS users, it still presents a compelling package, especially for gamers and sports streamers. 

Score: ★★★★

Read our full CyberGhost review.

Proton VPN’s service is provided by the same Swiss company that operates Proton Mail, a popular, secure email service, and it’s one of the few VPNs we tested that offers a free version (which was named our best free VPN). The provider prioritises user protection by implementing top-tier encryption and introducing an integrated feature known as NetShield, which safeguards users from malware, unwanted ads, and tracking. 

Cost

Proton VPN offers subscription terms of monthly, 12 months, and 24 months, and the same terms under its Proton Unlimited plans (which include the company’s other services – Proton Mail and Proton Drive). It also provides a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Security

Proton VPN uses AES-256 encryption, while its Secure Core feature routes traffic through multiple servers in privacy-friendly countries for added security. The provider claims to have a robust no-logs policy, which Securitum, a European security auditing company, has verified. However, the other VPNs we’ve reviewed have employed at least one of the Big Four auditing firms to verify their policies, which we feel offers more authority. 

User experience

Our Proton VPN researchers found the mobile interface cluttered, which could initially overwhelm those new to VPNs. Online user reviews suggest the promised speeds are not materialising, and ads are not being effectively blocked. 

Performance

The speeds produced from Proton VPN’s servers were very similar to the other VPNs we researched. However we were impressed with the 36.7Mbps achieved via an Australian server – only a 99 per cent drop from the baseline of 37Mbps, equal to that of using a server in the US.

Customer service

Proton VPN’s Trustpilot rating is a ‘poor’ 2.4, with users complaining about poor customer service, problems subscribing to Proton Unlimited, and refunds being provided in credits. However, on Google Play, the provider has a rating of 4.4, and 4.6 on the Apple App Store.

“[Be] careful, [as] when you cancel a paid subscription they immediately end your subscription and keep your money. They ‘refund’ in credits. Please don’t make the same mistake like me and get a paid subscription here.”

• Henrik, via Trustpilot

“[A] very nice and straight forward [VPN]. This app is one of the best I’ve used till now, and it’s got good features like network usage net speed on the top screen menu, which I really like.”

• Ajen, via Google Play

Customer support can be accessed through the in-app chat feature, email, or an online form. 

Verdict

Proton VPN appears to be a solid choice for users wanting online privacy and security, but it might not satisfy those seeking an intuitive interface and effective ad blocking. However, it does offer the rarely-found free version (though this is limited) and has a broad range of features for mobile users.  

Score: ★★★★

Read our full Proton VPN review.

When looking for a VPN for mobile use, there are several key considerations to bear in mind:

• Security: Look for a VPN with strong encryption – AES-256 is currently the gold standard – along with secure protocols, a reliable kill switch, and DNS leak protection
• Privacy: The VPN should have an independently verified no-logs policy, meaning it doesn’t store data about your online activities. The jurisdiction of the VPN (i.e., where it’s legally based) also matters because it can impact privacy laws and data retention policies
• Speed: Since VPNs can slow down your internet speed, consider a VPN known for good performance and fast servers
• Server network: A broad server network with a wide geographic distribution can help you bypass geo-restrictions and find a nearby server for better speed
• Mobile apps: Make sure the VPN provider offers a dedicated app for your mobile operating system (iOS or Android), and check whether the app is user-friendly, stable, and regularly updated
• Reliability: The VPN connection should be stable, without frequent drops
• Customer support: Reliable and accessible customer support (ideally 24/7 and via various methods such as live chat, email, etc.) is beneficial if you run into any issues
• Price and value: Compare features, performance, and prices across different VPN services to determine the best value for your needs. Consider the terms of the free trial or money-back guarantee, if any
• Reviews and reputation: Check recent reviews and user feedback to understand the VPN’s reputation and how well it lives up to its claims

The data in this review is reported from a neutral stance and should be used for informational purposes only. We review free VPN services from the perspective of:

• The quality of the product based on the security it affords the user
• User experience of the application(s)
• Level and quality of customer service

Independent Advisor does not endorse the streaming of content from regions other than where the subscription is held, nor does it endorse the downloading or consumption of illegally pirated content.