Are you looking for the best VPN for iOS devices?

For most of us who’ve been scouting for the best security and privacy that an iOS VPN can offer, have a general idea of all that’s on deck.

There are many VPN software available, and choosing the most suitable one, let alone for your iOS device, isn’t as easy as you think. Each provider comes packed with different features, delivering different performance results.

The top 10 providers chosen for this list support iOS versions 13-9, and are compatible with iPhone 11 and later, XS and XR, iPad (Pro, Air, Air 2, Mini, and Mini 2-4), the iPod Touch, and Apple Watch (watchOS versions 2.2 and later).

Most VPN services built for iOS support are usually curated towards iPhones. However, there are quite a few providers that are now extending VPN app support to not only iPhones but iPads alike.

Before moving ahead, here’s a quick look at the best VPN for iOS devices.

Our Selection Process for the Best iOS (iPhone/iPad) VPN services

Choosing the wrong VPN could send a thousand different problems through your device. A few of these issues revolve around weak encryption, data storing, or, worse, flooding your system with malware. We’ve tested quite a few and selected only the best VPN for your iOS, based on a few requirements. Here’s how:

Device compatibility

We looked for the top providers that offer VPN apps for both iPhones and iPads. We also looked for compatibility with all generations of iOS devices.

User-friendly apps and installation guides

All VPN apps need to be user-friendly for both beginners and professionals alike. It should be simple to install and easy to navigate.

Bank-grade encryption, protocols, and advanced features

To select the top 10 providers, we also kept a close eye on security features. Most iOS devices may come packed with an inbuilt security system, but it’s not enough.

The VPN’s chosen, all operate using military-grade 256-bit AES encryption, have smart protocol selection including OpenVPN, and other advanced features like Split-Tunneling and an AdBlocker. A Kill Switch VPN feature is infrequent to find on iOS apps, mainly iPhones. Only a few offer them.

Unblocking abilities and server coverage

There are many international streaming services, and websites blocked, based on your region. The iOS providers picked are all capable of unblocking a wide variety of platforms like the US Netflix library, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, Hulu, Disney Plus, and torrenting platforms. They also encompass smart server coverage.

Speed

We ran each VPN through a couple of speed tests, testing out multiple servers, and comparing results. All produced high to moderate speeds, best for HD or 4K streams.

 

The Best VPN for iOS, iPhone and iPad in 2023

1. ExpressVPN
2. Surfshark
3. NordVPN
4. IPVanish
5. CyberGhost
6. StrongVPN
7. PrivateVPN
8. Windscribe
9. TunnelBear
10. VyprVPN

You’ll find all the top providers chosen according to their superiority on the app store, security, support for different iOS versions and by performance. We’ve also highlighted everything that makes each provider worthy of their spot on the list.

1. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is, by far, the best for iOS, specifically for Apple iPhones. This service is also suitable for multiple operating systems and makes an even slicker app for iOS devices. Besides having a 4.6-star rating on the Apple store, ExpressVPN also topped the charts for iPhone VPN users, mainly because of this provider’s overall performance.

Firstly, ExpressVPN is located in the British Virgin Islands, far away from the 14-eyes regions. Online privacy won’t be an issue for anyone on the service. All the websites you visit and all the data you process through the VPN when connected are strictly abided by its no-logging policy.

Speaking of location, you’ll find a quantitative and qualitative listing of its 3000+ servers spread across 94 countries, all of which are secured with TrustedServer technologies.

If you’re a little skeptical about trusting the service and whether or not the TrustedServer technology works on your iPhone, you’ll find a detailed ExpressVPN audit report on the website. It highlights what was covered and propagates another report for customers to go through regarding the provider’s privacy and security.

Since security is probably the main concern for iOS users, you’ll find that ExpressVPN thrives in that area. It operates using AES 256-bit encryption, supports all the main protocols on iPhones including OpenVPN, offers DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and more.

The only downside to the app is that there isn’t any Kill Switch nor Split-Tunneling feature for iPhones. The support chat mentioned that they were still working on it. However, this doesn’t mean ExpressVPN falls short of greatness. The app for iOS devices is still rich in other advanced features and works profoundly.

Coming to its unblocking abilities, when put through a series of app tests, ExpressVPN managed to unblock not just the US Netflix, but more. Some of the more popular platforms that ExpressVPN works excellent with include BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Disney Plus, Apple TV+, YouTube, Amazon Prime, and others.

This app also produced some of the fastest speeds during testing, provided it also offers unlimited bandwidth.

Now, let’s talk about device compatibility and user interface. The ExpressVPN app for iPhones is easy to operate and is compatible with a variety of iOS series. It supports iOS versions 13-10 and works great with iPhone 11 and later, XS and XR, and on iPad (Pro, Air, Air 2, Mini, and Mini 2-4). Besides iOS devices, you can use the ExpressVPN subscription on any supported device on up-to 5 connections at a time.

Did you know that with its subscription on your iPhone, you’ll be allowed an ExpressVPN 7-day free trial? There’s also a 30-day money-back guarantee. The added perk is that ExpressVPN also offers in-app purchases using Apple Pay, which is the safest. However, the terms for it are different when compared to the website. If you want to buy this VPN then read our complete review of ExpressVPN.

Get Started With ExpressVPN!

2. Surfshark

Another top VPN for iOS devices, we have Surfshark. It might be one of the newer providers in the industry, but it most certainly is one of the strongest with a 4.4 stars rating in the App store. The plus side is that Surfshark makes an exceptional VPN app for iOS devices.

You’ll find its compatibility requirement towards iOS versions 10.3.3 or later and makes a great VPN software for iPhones, iPads, and the iPod touch. Surfshark is like the ultimate package. It’s not only compatible with iOS devices but makes a slick app for many operating systems and platforms.

The added perk is that Surfshark offers unlimited device connections. This means that along with VPN protection for your iPhone or iPad, you’ll be able to connect multiple supported devices with a single subscription.

Surfshark is also one of the more inexpensive apps, catering to users from all walks of life. Just like ExpressVPN, Surfshark, too, is located in the British Virgin Islands and is known for observing a sound privacy policy. All your private information and details on the websites you visit will be strictly anonymous since it doesn’t log any user data.

Speaking of location, Surfshark has a smart server selection covering around 3200+ servers in 65 countries. Each server is optimized for both streaming and P2P file sharing, even on your iPhone.

When talking about streaming, we ran Surfshark through the unblocking test. Many geo-blocked websites and apps were successfully accessible after connection to the servers.

A few include the US Netflix library, Hulu, ESPN, Amazon Prime, Hotstar, Disney+, and much more. The Surfshark speeds aren’t what we’d traditionally call fast, but they were decent and consistent.

Surfshark makes a reliable app for iOS devices, also because of the security suite. Besides its strict no-logs policy, it also offers bank-grade AES 256-bit encryption on iPhones, along with IKEv2 protocol on default. You’ll be able to make switches with OpenVPN.

Along with that, you’ll find other advanced features like a Kill Switch, DNS/IP leak protection, CleanWeb to block ads, the NoBorders, and Camouflage mode. There isn’t any sign of a Whitelister (split-tunneling) feature yet on the iOS apps.

Surfshark offers a 7-day free trial for all those who’d like to test it out on their iPhones. You can purchase the app from the Apple store. It allows payments through Apple Pay. If you’re interested in testing the VPN on multiple supported devices, opt for the Surfshark 30-day money-back guarantee. You can check our in-depth review of Surfshark if you want to know more about this VPN.

Get Started With Surfshark!

3. NordVPN

NordVPN is rated a 4.6 on the Apple App Store, and is among the list for popularly downloaded VPN software for iPhones. Well, to be honest, this provider is a great one, known for having robust features when compared to most.

What makes NordVPN great for iOS users, is first, it comes with a dedicated app for iPhones and iPads. It supports iOS versions 11.0 or later, and compatible with iPad and iPods. Besides iOS devices, you’ll be able to connect to five other supported devices since NordVPN allows up to 6 simultaneous device connections per subscription.

Let’s come to what NordVPN is known for – its security features. Every NordVPN app, including the one for iPhone, is powered by military-grade AES 256-bit encryption, which is the best of its kind.

As for protocols, you’ll only find IKEv2/IPsec and the NordLynx protocol (powered by WireGuard technologies). The great news about the NordVPN iPhone app is that it comes with a Kill Switch, which is so rare.  There’s also a CyberSec feature to kill ads and detect malicious websites. The NordVPN iOS app also comes with Siri’s voice-activated app.

A part of VPN security also has a lot to do with privacy, location, and no-logging policies. NordVPN is great for shielding a person’s identity and location. During testing, neither IP nor DNS leaked. It reins from a privacy-friendly site in Panama, not listed within the 14-eye regions.

Keeping its user’s privacy in check, NordVPN also has a strict no-logging policy. Of course, not many would believe that which is why NordVPN also put itself through not one but a couple of independent audits.

If you’re wondering how NordVPN works towards unblocking geo-restricted services? The answer is “pretty great!” It has around 5200+ servers in 59+ countries. You’ll find a list of P2P and Onion Over VPN optimized servers on the iOS app for iPhones.

We conducted a couple of tests, and NordVPN managed to work smoothly with many streaming services using its SmartPlay technology. A few of these platforms include Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Showtime, Hulu, HBO, Amazon Prime, and more. The speed results were pretty decent too.

All-in-all, NordVPN makes a pretty sound app for iOS devices, and if you’re willing to test it out, there’s a 7-day free trial for iPhones, if you buy it from the Apple Store. Just in case you’re not too keen on providing Credit Card details online, NordVPN allows payments through Apple Pay too for added safety.

If you think that’s not enough, just go for the 30-day money-back policy, which isn’t inclusive of in-app purchases. Read our detailed review of NordVPN if you are thinking to get this VPN.

Get Started With NordVPN!

4. IPVanish

Next, we have IPVanish, hitting a 4.5 stars rating on the App Store. This provider has hit the mark for its unblocking abilities and so much more, making it a suitable VPN for your iPhone.

Firstly, let’s start with IPVanish’s location. It is a US-based provider, which often sends mixed signals for its users. The USA is a part of the 14-eyes region, and IPVanish is right in the middle. However, apart from that, IPVanish is very strict when it comes to its no-logging policy.

IPVanish has been through several updates and improvements throughout the years. They even updated their privacy policies stating the insignificant data stored, which doesn’t hamper the user’s privacy.

Now, let’s come to the IPVanish iOS compatibility. It’s known to have user-friendly apps for iOS devices. You’ll find dedicated apps for iOS versions 11.0 or later and compatible with iPhones, iPad, and the iPod Touch. Apart from that, it’s compatible with many other devices.

Speaking of, IPVanish used to offer 10 device connections per subscription. However, recently the update now allows unlimited device connections.

We wouldn’t recommend IPVanish if your primary concern is security. There’s no Kill Switch for iOS devices, nor Split-tunneling.

The most you’d find on the iPhone app is AES 256-bit encryption to keep your connection secure and a switch of IPsec/IKEv2 protocols. There’s also a 3D touch support and a Siri voice support shortcut for app assistance.

What you could look forward to is IPVanish’s ability to unblock streaming services and multiple other websites. It has an updated list of around 2000+ servers in 75+ locations. During testing, it unblocked Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, and more.

IPVanish offers a 30-day refund policy for purchases made through the website. However, if you’re buying the app through iTunes, the free trial for your iPhone is in correlation with Apple. You can read our full review of IPVanish so you will know more about this VPN.

Get Started With IPVanish!

5. CyberGhost

Not too far in this list, we have CyberGhost VPN, reaching a 4.2-star rating on the Apple Store. In general, CyberGhost is excellent for providing VPN services that shield your physical location and secure your data. It’s not that different on the iOS apps.

It supports iOS versions 9.3 or later and is compatible with both iPhone and iPad devices. There’s also an app for Apple Watch, supporting watchOS versions 2.2 and later. The iOS app interface is exceptionally user-friendly and easy to navigate. With a single subscription, you’ll be able to make 7 simultaneous device connections.

Now, let’s come straight to the CyberGhost location and features. It’s located in Romania, away from the 14-eyes regions, and doesn’t log any data. With that said, you don’t need to worry about masking your physical location or IP address.

The CyberGhost app for iPhone comes with single-click access to connect to the fastest VPN server for you. However, you’ll be able to manually connect to any of its 7700+ servers in 90+ countries. The best part is that CyberGhost has its servers labeled separately for streaming and P2P. So, finding the most suitable one isn’t an issue.

You’ll be able to unblock multiple streaming services on your iPhone. Some of them unblocked during testing include Netflix, ESPN, BBC iPlayer, HBO, Amazon Prime, and others. The speeds were satisfactory and bandwidth unlimited.

CyberGhost operates using AES 256-encryption on OpenVPN protocol, has a Kill Switch by default for iOS devices, and possesses other in-app features like an AdBlocker.

This provider offers payments through Apple Pay, and to put the app for a personal test run, you could go for the 7-day free trial for iPhones. For extensive testing on several devices, there’s also the 45-day refund period you can try. If you are thinking to purchase this VPN then check our review of Cyberghost.

Get Started With CyberGhost!

6. StrongVPN

Next, we have StrongVPN. It may have a 4.4-star rating on the Apple Store, but it still isn’t enough when compared to the other VPN services mentioned above.

Firstly, StrongVPN is a US-based provider, which means its region falls within the 14-eyes jurisdiction. However, as mentioned above, you need to dig deep into the privacy policies. It mentions not logging any vital information but, at the same time, says that they’re obliged to provide user information if legally required. That’s a little inconvenient.

StrongVPN supports iOS versions 11.0 and later, and is compatible with apps for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch. The app’s interface is simple to navigate. Along with your iPhone, you’ll be able to connect up to 12 devices simultaneously.

It offers 950+ servers in 30+ countries. During testing, StrongVPN unblocked Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and more, including torrenting platforms. The speeds weren’t all that great.

Coming to the security, StrongVPN offers AES 256-bit encryption, and a selection between IKEv2, IPsec, and WireGuard protocols on the iPhone app. Sadly, there’s no Kill Switch, nor any other advanced features.

You can buy the app on the App Store using Apple Pay for added security. You’ll only find a 30-day money-back guarantee on top of any subscription purchased through the website. There’s no free trial for iPhones. Read our detailed review of StrongVPN.

Get Started With StrongVPN!

7. PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN is located in Sweden, which does fall under the 14-eyes jurisdiction. However, they claim to follow strict no-logs policy, and it seems to be reliable. They only store the email ID you use to sign up for the service.

Its iOS app is easy to use, and supports versions 10.0 or later. It’s compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch. You’ll also be able to add more devices to the VPN connection since it allows simultaneous connections up to 6 devices.

PrivateVPN seems to have a reasonable list of security features and doesn’t support a Kill Switch on iPhone. It operates using AES 256-bit encryption, supports OpenVPN, and is DNS/IP leak protected.

You’ll find a small list of 2000+ servers in 60+ countries. Getting through blocked services isn’t an issue. Using the VPN on Stealth Mode, we were able to unblock Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and a couple more.

All-in-all makes a simple, budgeted app for iPhone. There’s no free trial available for now, but the provider does offer a 30-day refund.

Get Started With PrivateVPN!

8. Windscribe

Windscribe has both free and premium apps available for iPhones. It’s a Canadian provider, located within the 14-eyes alliance. However, it doesn’t log any user data.

The app supports versions 10.0 or later and is compatible with iPhone, iPad, and the iPod touch. It also supports a variety of other platforms and allows unlimited device connections.

Coming to the app’s security, it works on AES 256-bit encryption, is DNS/IP leak protected, and offers other advanced features like a Kill Switch, and Firewall, on the app for iPhone.

This provider offers 400+ servers in 63+ countries. When put through the unblocking test, Windscribe gave access to Netflix, Disney Plus, HBO, and more! The speeds weren’t what you’d call high, but were fast enough.

Windscribe allows payments through Apple Pay. If you’re looking for a test run, you could always go for the free version of the app.

However, it allows only 10GB of data/mo. and access to 10 servers. If you’re going for a regular subscription, it offers a 3-day money-back guarantee.

Get Started With Windscribe!

9. TunnelBear

Another great provider for iPhones, we have TunnelBear. This provider also offers both a free and premium app, available for iPhone on the App store. Users often find that this VPN is one of the more user-friendly apps available.

TunnelBear is located in Canada, which again is a part of the 14-eyes region. However, after looking into its privacy policies, we can say that this provider doesn’t log any user data. It had been a part of an independent audit in the past.

Coming to apps, TunnelBear supports iOS versions 11.0 and later and is compatible with iPhone, iPad, and the iPod Touch. TunnelBear allows users to make up to 5 simultaneous device connections.

Apart from that, TunnelBear security seems to be very pale in comparison. It runs on AES 256-bit encryption, has a Whitelister feature for WiFi Networks, and is DNS protected. There’s no Kill Switch for iPhones and notably no other advanced features.

TunnelBear offers servers in 49 countries. Its unblocking abilities are minimal and only were able to bypass a few websites with limited speeds.

If you’re willing to use an iOS VPN app for free, then TunnelBear is your best bet. Its free version is safe and offers limited data of 500MB. Other than that, the regular subscription offers a refund period only for some instances. For that, you’ll have to contact the support team.

Get Started With TunnelBear!

10. VyprVPN

Last but not least, we have VyprVPN. This provider is also known for its unblocking abilities as well as its security features, making it a good iPhone app.

The VyprVPN app makes a user-friendly app for both beginners and professionals. It supports iOS versions 10.0 and later and is compatible with iPhone, iPad, and the iPod touch.

Along with that, you’ll be able to make up to 5 device connections simultaneously.

Coming to its security, firstly, it’s located in a privacy-friendly region in Switzerland. Its iOS app isn’t much different when compared to other device apps.

You’ll find that it operates using AES 256-bit encryption, supports OpenVPN, Chameleon, WireGuard, and IKEv2 protocols on the iOS app, and is DNS protected. It doesn’t, however, have a Kill Switch for iPhone.

VyprVPN has around 700+ servers in 50+ countries. We tested a few and managed to unblock Netflix, Hulu, and a couple more at good speeds.

If you’re willing to put VyprVPN to the test, there’s a 3-day trial available for iPhone and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Get Started With VyprVPN!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a VPN on iOS?
2. What is a VPN used for on iPhone?
3. How do you set up a VPN on an iPhone?
4. Can you use a free VPN for iPhone?
5. What is the best free VPN for iPhone?

What is a VPN used for on iPhone?

An iPhone is built with end-to-end encryption, but that doesn’t mean you’re sorted out. Apple is also an active part of the NSA’s surveillance program and sells users data.

• A VPN not only adds extra encryption to your device but allows you to stay anonymous online, protecting your data.
• You’ll also be able to access your iTunes accounts when traveling abroad or within a Geo-restricted country.
• Unblocking streaming and gaming apps will be easier than ever on your iPhones.
• Using a VPN would stabilize connection speeds and bandwidth.
• It’ll block out malware from your device and much more.

How do you set up a VPN on an iPhone?

Here’s how you get started:

1. Start by subscribing to the best VPN for iOS that you think is most suitable for your iPhone.
2. Create your account by providing an Email ID and a password.
3. Head to the Apple Store and download the app.
4. Launch the app and log into your account.
5. If you’re met with a pop-up that says “(VPN App) would like to add VPN configuration,” then click on “Allow.”
6. Connect to the best server
7. Now head to any website that you need to unblock.

What is a VPN on iOS?

A VPN on iOS means compatibility and protection on all supported devices. Only a few VPN services can perform with the best results for iOS devices in particular. It secures your connection, makes you and your activities anonymous online, acts like a Firewall from all malicious content, and allows you to unblock multiple services.

Can you use a free VPN for iPhone? 

Yes, you can, but it’s not recommended. An iPhone’s security infrastructure is complex, and adding a VPN to it can sometimes obtain different results. However, using a free VPN isn’t safe for iOS devices, nor is it on any other operating system.

Free VPN providers steal data, come with weak or no encryption, slow down speeds, and spread viruses.

What is the best free VPN for iPhone?

Only a few free VPN services work and are reliable. If, however, you’re still looking for a free iPhone VPN,

Windscribe is the safest. Sure, it comes with limited 10GB data/mo. and access to 10 servers, but it’s encrypted, and the speeds are decent.

Conclusion

Using a VPN on your iPhone is necessary, securing you from day-to-day cyber-attacks and more. It helps in the long run. Having gone through the entire list of 10 of the best VPN providers for your iPhone, choosing one ultimately depends on you.

However, if you’re looking for the absolute best in overall security and performance ExpressVPN, Surfshark, and NordVPN top the list for enhanced security and privacy for all your iOS devices.