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Best VPNs for iOS
Make Your iPhone Even Smarter with a VPN That Works
iPhones are known for security, but they still leave gaps. Your internet traffic isn’t encrypted by default, and apps can leak your location or collect more data than they should. That’s where a reliable VPN for iOS makes a difference.
We tested VPN apps on iPhone and iPad to see which ones work well, with no bloat, gimmicks, or weird drop-offs.
Why You Need a VPN on iOS
iPhones and iPads are built with security in mind, but even Apple’s walled garden can’t shield you from everything. When you’re browsing, banking, or messaging on public Wi-Fi, your data still travels across networks that aren’t always safe. And while iOS does a decent job of limiting background tracking, plenty of apps find ways around that.
This is where a VPN makes a difference. It wraps your data in encryption, hides your location from trackers, and gives you access to content that’s normally out of reach based on where you are. Whether you’re watching shows abroad or just want peace of mind while using mobile data, a good VPN closes the privacy gaps that iOS leaves open.
What We Tested in iOS VPN Apps
To make sure our picks work in the real world, we installed each VPN app on iPhones and iPads running iOS 16 and 17. We didn’t stick to just Wi-Fi at home, we also tested on 5G, public networks, and travel connections.
We paid attention to how fast the apps connected, how stable those connections were, and whether the layout made it easy to use with one hand. Battery performance mattered too, especially on longer sessions. We also checked App Store privacy labels, reviewed what permissions were required, and took note of extras like widget support or Siri integration.
Only the VPNs that handled all that without annoying bugs or gimmicks made the cut.
Best VPNs for iPhone and iPad
Fast, sleek, and feature-rich
NordVPN’s iOS app hits all the marks. It’s fast to load, easy to navigate, and includes tools like Threat Protection Lite. Great for streaming, travel, and everyday use.
Simple, fast, and works in seconds
ExpressVPN’s iOS app is perfect if you want a no-hassle setup. It launches quickly, connects in one tap, and runs quietly in the background. Great for travelers or anyone tired of sluggish apps.
Affordable and works on all your devices
Surfshark’s iOS app is smooth and clean. It supports split tunneling (called “Bypasser”) and includes GPS spoofing if you want your apps to match your VPN location. Plus, one account works on unlimited devices.
Profiles for streaming and public Wi-Fi
CyberGhost’s iOS app lets you pick profiles like “Streaming” or “Wi-Fi Protection,” so you don’t have to mess with manual settings. Suitable for users who want one-tap simplicity.
Free tier and strong privacy focus
ProtonVPN doesn’t limit you to a short trial; the free version works with no time cap. It’s not as fast as the paid tier, but it’s safe and open-source. The app also supports Secure Core for extra protection.
Custom controls and an open-source app
PIA offers a fully open-source iOS app with advanced settings. You can tweak encryption, protocols, and more. It’s ideal for users who like a bit of technical control but still want a clean interface.
Budget option that covers the basics
FastestVPN is affordable and gets the job done. It doesn’t have a massive list of features, but it’s stable, easy to use, and offers decent speeds for casual use.
iOS Features That Pair Well with VPNs
Modern VPN apps are designed to work seamlessly with iOS. You can activate them with a Siri command, monitor your connection from a home screen widget, or have them auto-connect whenever you join a new Wi-Fi network.
If you’re serious about privacy, you can also set up custom on-demand rules so your VPN kicks in exactly when you need it to, like when you leave your house or connect to public hotspots. All of this happens quietly in the background without slowing down your phone.
Everyday Use Cases on iPhone and iPad
A VPN on iOS isn’t just for tech people. If you stream shows while abroad, it’ll help you bypass region blocks. If you travel for work, it protects your banking and login sessions on hotel or airport Wi-Fi.
Even at home, your mobile carrier can track what you do online. A VPN stops that. It also blocks trackers when you’re browsing news or using messaging apps. So whether you’re commuting, working remotely, or just scrolling, your traffic stays yours.
How to Set Up a VPN on iOS
The setup takes about a minute.
Just open the App Store, download the VPN you’ve picked, and sign in. Most apps will ask permission to install a VPN profile; approve it. Once you’re in, tap the connect button, and you’re good to go.
Some apps also let you lock access with Face ID, add Siri shortcuts for quick activation, or auto-connect the moment your phone joins a network. No extra configuration is needed unless you want it.
What to Avoid in iOS VPN Apps
Not every app that says “VPN” is worth trusting. Avoid anything that hides behind vague privacy policies or asks for more permissions than it should. If the app runs ads inside itself, that’s often a red flag, your data might be the real product.
Transparency matters. If a provider won’t tell you where its servers are or how it handles logs, skip it. You want a service that makes its practices clear from the start.
Tips for Better VPN Performance on iOS
You’ll get better speeds by sticking with modern protocols like WireGuard or IKEv2. Try nearby servers first, they’re often faster. If your VPN feels sluggish, clear the app’s cache or try toggling auto-connect off and back on again.
Using more than one device? Choose a provider that supports multiple simultaneous connections. And whatever you install, keep it updated. Most improvements come from version updates, faster speeds, fewer bugs, and better compatibility with new iOS versions.
Final Thoughts: The Best VPNs for iOS
A good iPhone or iPad deserves a good VPN that doesn’t interrupt, overload, or overcomplicate things. We’ve tested each app for real-world performance, whether on 5G, hotel Wi-Fi, or your home network. They work. They’re fast. And they’re built for privacy. Try one, test it out, and make your phone smarter.
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