Best VPN Apps for Android – [100+ VPNs Tested in 2023]

The Android PlayStore has dozens of free VPNs that provide no security or encryption and flood users with annoying ads. In fact, many users end up getting malware and adware on their devices due to these VPN scams.

Determining a secure VPN requires testing encryption, leak protection, and checking whether the VPN logs or tracks user data. We went through the hassle of performing this in-depth analysis to bring you some of the most secure Android VPNs.

Apart from security, the best VPN for Android should provide excellent compatibility with older Android versions and support for anonymous browsing. It should also be able to unblock websites and offer a satisfactory streaming experience because according to recent statistics, 50% of all VPN traffic consists of streaming.

VPNs on the Playstore are a dime a dozen and very few provide any real value. Therefore,  we prepared a quick round-up of the top 10 Android VPNs based on their popularity, features, and rating.

The Best VPN for Android in 2023

1. ExpressVPN – 4.3 Star Play Store Rating

ExpressVPN is one of the oldest VPNs with more than 10 million downloads and 4.3 stars on the Playstore. Their well-sprung network of 3000+ servers is protected by AES 256-bit encryption and supports all major security protocols.

ExpressVPN is also one of the few VPNs that passed a real-world no-logs test in an independent audit. It’s also passed the test of time and upheld the integrity of its user data over the years.

The ExpressVPN app has all the right features tucked away nicely under a clean UI. One of the most important security features, the Internet Kill Switch option, is built into the app as the “Network Lock” button.

As for battery usage, luckily, the Android application is well-optimized. ExpressVPN claims their application does not cause significant battery drainage as long as it’s not always on in the background.

However, their refund process isn’t as user-friendly as competitors. Various users have complained about being charged extra, having their subscriptions upgraded automatically (with extra charges), and various issues with refund inquiries. If you want to know about this VPN in detail, check out our full review of ExpressVPN.

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2. Surfshark – 4.0 Star Play Store Rating

Surfshark is a trending VPN with over a million downloads and an excellent rating of 4.0 stars. It has a robust network of 3,200+ servers that use military-grade AES-256-bit encryption.

Moreover, Surfshark also protects users against IP/DNS leaks and has a separate Kill Switch option for Android.

This budget-friendly VPN is not only secure but has a guaranteed no-logs policy that has been tested by various users. Even in the privacy policy mumbo jumbo, Surfshark clearly states that it does not track or sell user data to third parties.

The app itself is well-optimized and user-friendly. It lets you turn on VPN protection at the touch of a button and navigate the settings easily. The dark/light theme option is a welcome addition that makes the app look modern.

Fortunately, excellent optimization and a built-in ad-blocker save the battery as well.

As for user complaints and refund policies, Surfshark has mixed customer reviews. Some users went through extensive back-and-forth emailing to get their money back, while others got their refund in a few minutes via the Surfshark live chat. You can read our detailed review of Surfshark before getting it.

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3. NordVPN – 4.3 Star Play Store Rating

NordVPN is a household name in VPNs with more than 10 million downloads and a 4.3-star rating on the Playstore. This makes it one of the most highly-rated VPNs for Android, and rightly so.

NordVPN provides AES 256-bit encryption and has a Kill Switch feature that makes sure your mobile always stays secure. NordVPN also offers enhanced security with WebRTC, DNS, and IP Leak Protection.

Moreover, NordVPN respects user privacy and does not track online activity, duration, and downloads, IP addresses, or servers used. Their servers are checked for user data and the reports are regularly published.

The NordVPN app looks quite impressive with a visual presentation of server locations. However, due to its military-grade encryption, the app eats up battery. Therefore, the more data you download over a VPN, the faster your battery will drain.

Furthermore, NordVPN is surprisingly accommodating with their refund policy, While other VPNs try to get you to stick with them, NordVPN is very professional and refunds users within 2-3 days. To know more about this VPN you can check our detailed review of NordVPN.

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4. IPVanish – 4.2 Star Play Store Rating

IPVanish is a relatively less famous VPN with more than 1 million downloads and a 4.2-star rating on the Play Store. However, it sets itself apart from the competition by offering support for 10 simultaneous connections. And as with all other reliable VPNs, IPVanish also uses AES 256-bit encryption for all its 2000+ servers.

Moreover, they uphold a strict no-logs policy and claim to protect consumer rights and privacy. While they faced a lawsuit a few years ago, their new management under Stackpath strictly abides by their privacy policy.

When it comes to cross-platform compatibility, IPVanish offers support for mobile and desktop Operating Systems. Their Android application is incredibly intuitive and comes with all the necessary features. It also supports an automatic Internet Killswitch, however, it only works for devices using Android 9 or later versions.

While IPVanish has its merits, it’s not without any flaws. A few users have complained about their refund process and uniformed staff. However, most users were able to solve their issues eventually. Check out the review of IPVanish if you want to buy it.

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5. CyberGhost – 4.1 Star Play Store Rating

CyberGhost is another popular VPN with over 10 million downloads and a 4.1 stars rating. While it has a slightly lower rating, CyberGhost has a 45-day refund policy and some of the best discounts. But even at a lower price, CyberGhost still uses military-grade AES 256-bit encryption for all of its 7700+ servers.

While CyberGhost claims it does not track user activity, it has been known to record hardware data and install its own SSL certificates. This activity has been flagged by many users but does not necessarily mean it will compromise your anonymity.

Moreover, the CyberGhost Android application comes loaded with all the necessary features, including an automatic killswitch, protection against IPv6, Port forwarding, and DNS leaks. As for the battery usage, you can expect 10-15% usage, depending on your data usage, and connection strength.

When it comes to refunds, users can avail of a 45-day money-back guarantee on a subscription for 6 months or more, and a 14-day guarantee for monthly subscriptions. You can check our full review of CyberGhost VPN.

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6. StrongVPN – 3.6 Star Play Store Rating

StrongVPN supports up to 12 simultaneous connections and has gathered more than 100,000 downloads on the Playstore. Moreover, it has a 3.6-star rating and uses AES 256-bit encryption for all its servers. StrongVPN also has the strongest privacy and optimized network of 950+ servers.

Just like most other reputable VPNs, StrongVPN also has a strict no-logs policy and tracks only the minimum anonymous user data for optimization and troubleshooting. They only track various usage data but do not record user IP or location.

As with most other premium options, StrongVPN also supports mobile platforms like Android. Their mobile application is user-friendly, offers easy access to all their servers, and features an automatic Internet Killswitch. Due to its superior optimization and support for cutting-edge security protocols like WireGuard, StrongVPN is very efficient and saves battery.

StrongVPN also has a great customer support and refund process for unsatisfied costumes. However, it has a bad track record for users in China, mainly due to crackdowns and very few server switches per month. For more information about this VPN, read our detailed review of StrongVPN.

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7. VyprVPN – 4.4 Star Play Store Rating

VyprVPN scores a stellar rating of 4.4 stars and 1 million-plus download on the Play Store. It also features the same AES 256-bit encryption, the best publicly available encryption method. VyprVPN version 3.0 and above require at least Android 5.0 to be installed on your device.

As for user privacy, VyprVPN recently converted to a log-free VPN. Their recent no-log policy has made them a strong contender, thanks to their otherwise solid service. Their excellent service is possible thanks to more than 700+ well-optimized servers.

Similar to other Android VPNs, VyprVPN also has an intuitive application, but there are a few features that set it apart from the competition. Most notably, it’s one of the few VPNs with an app for Android-based smart TVs, which allows users to bypass the hassle of using a VPN modem or a Smart DNS for their TVs. Moreover, it also features an Internet Killswitch, which makes sure your privacy is maintained if the VPN disconnects.

VyprVPN offers a 30-day free trial with full functionality. This allows you to test their service without losing any money. Their refunding process has improved over the years and it’s quite hassle-free.

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8. TurboVPN – 4.6 Star Play Store Rating

TurboVPN is the most popular VPN on Playstore. It’s also a mobile-only VPN with a whopping 100 million downloads and a 4.6-star rating. It’s also one of the most secure VPNs with AES 256-bit encryption and support for OpenVPN and IPSec protocols.

TurboVPN is one of the only VPNs that offer unlimited bandwidth and 8 US servers for free, which explains their number of downloads. However, when it comes to their privacy policy, they fall short of expectations. TurboVPN logs user data and ads to support the free version. The paid version drops ads and supports faster servers.

The TurboVPN mobile application comes with a quick connecting application that’s simple enough for all users. However, it provides very few details regarding its function, doesn’t mention DNS encryption, and has no Internet Killswitch. Another drawback of TurboVPN is its incredibly high battery usage due to its inefficient application.

When it comes to their refund policy, there simply isn’t any. However, they do offer a 1-week free trial but will charge you automatically unless you manually cancel the subscription before the trial ends.

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9. TunnelBear – 4.3 Star Play Store Rating

TunnelBear is an up-and-coming VPN that takes a stylistic approach to the User Interface. Thanks to its popularity, the VPN has amassed 10 million downloads and a 4.3-star rating on the Play Store. TunnelBear has a respectable list of servers in 49 countries. Moreover, it also uses AES 256-bit encryption that provides best-in-class security.

Furthermore, TunnelBear has an excellent track record for privacy and reliability. Their privacy policy suggests a strict no-logs policy. They also share periodic audit reports that suggest TunnelBear does not log user data or keep session information.

Perhaps the best part about TunnelBear is its UI. The bear has become an integral part of their brand that’s appealing to most users. The app comes with all the features we’ve come to expect from reputable VPNs, along with user-friendly widgets that make connections easier. Moreover, TunnelBear offers its own killswitch, called VigilantBear, that’s supported on all operating systems. Their application is also very efficient and does not drain the battery, but requires a stock Android OS to run smoothly.

Unfortunately, TunnelBear does not offer a money-back guarantee. However, it has a free version, as well as refunds on a case-to-case basis.

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10. SaferVPN – 2.7 Star Play Store Rating

SaferVPN is the 10th one on our list with more than 100,000 downloads and a 2.7-star rating. It boasts 400 servers across the globe. As with all other VPNs, SaferVPN also uses AES 256-bit encryption and supports all major security protocols.

SaferVPN also claims it doesn’t keep logs, track IP addresses, or sell user information. However, it supports dedicated IP, not shared IP. Dedicated IPs make it easier to track your real IP address.

Next, let’s talk about its Android application. The application supports all recent Android versions and works p2p file sharing and anonymous browsing. Thanks to their unlimited server switching and bandwidth, SaferVPN is ideal for serious users as well as casual ones.

When it comes to requesting refunds, you need to contact their support via email. Their money-back guarantee works well, but users need to contact support before the 30-day trial period is over.

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Our Rating Criteria for the Best VPN for Android

Our extensive process tests each VPN on multiple grounds, which helps us determine a scale for VPNs from the best on their performance.

1. Encryption and Security
2. Ease of Use and Installation
3. Ability to Unblock Streaming Services
4. Battery Drainage Testing
5. Simultaneous Connections

1. Encryption and Security

The first thing to check for any VPN is its encryption. Most VPNs use military-grade AES 256-bit encryption for maximum privacy. Its the highest level of encryption made publicly available by the NSA. VPNs also use various security protocols to protect your identity. OpenVPN and IPSec are the industry standard, while WireGuard and Shadowsocks are up-and-coming protocols with various speed and security benefits.

2. Ease of Use and Installation

VPNs must be easy to install, intuitive for users, and offer all the necessary functions. Good VPNs like ExpressVPN offer a straightforward installation process and can be turned on at the touch of a button. But, it’s also important for VPNs to provide various settings, like options to change the security protocol, and an internet kill switch.

3. Ability to Unblock Streaming Services

Most VPNs discourage and straight-up block VPN servers. Premium VPNs keep their servers optimized for streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer, Crunchyroll, etc.

But, this is easier said than done. Only the best-paid VPNs are able to maintain servers in popular countries like the USA, the UK, and restricted areas like China.

4. Battery Drainage Testing

Battery drainage is another statistic that really impacts the user experience. The battery drainage can vary greatly depending on signal strength, data usage, and the security protocol being used.

However, industry-leading VPNs are able to optimize their apps for mobiles and use no more than 10-15% of your battery. Moreover, ads can also negatively impact your battery.

We recommend using ExpressVPN as it is lightweight and drains the least amount of battery.

5. Simultaneous Connections

Simultaneous connections provide a lot of utility for users with multiple devices. Most users today have 3 or more devices, which makes support for simultaneous connections a huge benefit.

Most VPNs support anywhere between 5-7 simultaneous connections. However, a few like Surfshark, a top-listed VPN for multiple devices, offer support for unlimited devices and bandwidth.

Android VPNs You Should Avoid in 2023

With hundreds of VPNs on the Play Store, it is always risky to trust a VPN service with your privacy. We highly recommended sticking with the VPNs we have mentioned in this extensive guide.

Here are some Android VPNs that you should avoid in 2023:

1. Zenmate

Zenmate is one VPN that you should avoid using on your Android device. Although free, it is known to leak users’ DNS and IP. Its privacy policy is vague and unclear too. It is hard to understand their stance on logging user data. If you value your privacy, it’s best to avoid this VPN service.

2. Hola

Hola is a terrible VPN. It is infamous for hijacking users’ internet connections and putting their safety and privacy at risk. It is known to utilize its users’ idle resources to power its peer-to-peer network. Hola has a reputation for selling the idle bandwidth of its users. The way Hola powers its network puts users’ privacy at risk. Also, Hola logs a lot of users’ data and their privacy policy is anything but clear. Our advice, avoid this VPN.

Frequently Asked Questions

VPNs can be a bit dodgy and may need frequent troubleshooting. This section attempts to clear out some of the common concerns people have regarding their privacy.

1. What is the best free VPN for Android?
2. What is the best VPN encryption for Android?
3. Can I use the Android VPNs on other devices?
4. Are free Android VPNs safe?
5. Which is the best VPN for Android tablets?

What is the best free VPN for Android?

With VPNs, you get what you pay for. In order to maintain servers and cover their costs, VPN providers either charge their customers or sell ads and user information in the case of free VPNs.

That being said, there are some options that we wholeheartedly recommend. ExpressVPN for instance has a 30-day free trial that you can avail of and binge your favorite shows for free.

What is the best VPN encryption for Android?

Nearly all VPNs use AES 256-bit encryption for their services across all platforms. Therefore, this encryption method extends to Android VPNs as well. This is a “symmetric key encryption” method that uses a key length of 256 bits. In simple words, this encryption cannot be deciphered using current computing power. AES 256-bit encryption is the first and only publicly approved cipher by the NSA.

Can I use the Android VPNs on other devices?

When you register for a VPN, you get a license to use the VPN on all supported OS, including iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, etc. In fact, most services allow you to use their VPNs on multiple devices simultaneously.

Moreover, you can also install your VPN on a compatible router, which will protect incoming traffic to every device that connects to your network.

Are free Android VPNs safe?

Free VPNs usually come with some drawbacks. While most free VPNs do protect your IP and let you download files anonymously, they are known to track your activities themselves. Some free VPNs even sell user data to third parties.

Therefore, we suggest going for a VPN that has a decent track record or availing the free trials of reputable VPNs, such as ExpressVPN.

Which is the best VPN for Android tablets?

Apart from protecting your privacy and offering fast speeds, VPNs also need to have an intuitive UI for mobile and tablet users. Lesser-known VPNs have poorly optimized Android apps that aren’t intuitive and use up all your battery, Therefore, we recommend going with a reputable VPN like ExpressVPN or Surfsharkfor your Android tablet.