Whether you sport an iPhone 17 or a legacy iOS device, adopting a virtual private network (VPN) is beneficial. VPNs encrypt your online traffic and, by layering encryption on your communication. The services also protect your data from digital eavesdroppers, marketers, and third parties. In addition, if you want to stream content that isn’t available in your area, a VPN can unlock access to different streaming libraries worldwide, making VPNs a great choice for streaming on mobile devices.
If you’re on the hunt for an iOS-compatible VPN, prioritize security, then consider other features you want like a large server network for changing your location, the number of simultaneous connections, intuitive, easy-to-use mobile apps, or privacy features like email masking and password management.
In ZDNET’s latest update, we revised our guide to the best iPhone VPNs of 2026, including a thorough revision of our top recommendations.
Get more in-depth ZDNET tech coverage: Add us as a preferred Google source on Chrome and Chromium browsers.
SERVICES AND SOFTWARE DEALS OF THE WEEK
Deals are selected by the CNET Group commerce team, and may be unrelated to this article.
What is the best iPhone VPN right now?
Based on my extensive testing, my pick for the best VPN for iPhone is NordVPN. Available for $3.39 per month, NordVPN provides rapid speeds, solid connectivity, and a massive server network. Furthermore, the NordVPN iOS app is user-friendly and won’t noticeably drain your phone’s battery with continual use. This is important if you want to use a VPN while you’re away from home.
Alternatively, if you want a budget-friendly and user-friendly iPhone VPN, you should explore Surfshark‘s offerings. Starter plans begin at only $2 per month with three months of free service.
Also: The best travel VPNs
I tested every top VPN and found the best ones that offer solid iPhone and Apple iOS ecosystem apps, robust security, and rapid speeds. I conduct frequent speed and security tests for each VPN I recommend, and I also explore new offerings on the market as they appear. If you want to find out what the best VPNs for iPhone are in 2026, check out my recommendations below.
Sort by
All
Countries and servers
Usability
Speed and performance
Security
Price
The best VPN for iOS in 2026
Show less
NordVPN is one of the more popular VPN offerings in the App Store, and for good reason.
Why we like it: Installing NordVPN on an iPhone is a simple, painless way to secure reliable performance across regions. The service is also compatible with iOS 16 or later.
NordVPN’s interface is user-friendly, and we found the service offers consistent, rapid, and reliable speeds that don’t noticeably affect streaming or internet browsing.
Also: Best free antivirus software of 2026
We consider this VPN to be one of the best available, combining speed, server availability in 126 countries, and reliability. The service offers 10 simultaneous connections, but we would still prefer unlimited.
In addition to standard service, NordVPN’s integration with Siri lets you set up shortcut commands on iOS and launch protection on the go.
Optional add-ons include a password manager, scam call protection, ad and tracker blockers, and cloud storage. NordVPN has also recently partnered with CrowdStrike to improve its threat protection service.
Review: NordVPN
Who is it for: I’ve tested NordVPN for years and its stable connectivity and speeds are always impressive. Customers generally report an easy setup, fast speeds and minimal buffering, although some caution that you should turn off auto-renewal.
In addition to iOS, NordVPN runs on all the most popular platforms. Prices start from $3.39 per month on a two-year standard plan. Yearly plans begin at $5 per month.
The service also offers additional cybersecurity options through its premium plans, including identity theft and cyber extortion coverage.
Who should look elsewhere: If you want something more affordable, check out Surfshark.
NordVPN features: Simultaneous connections: 10 | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, tvOS, and routers | Countries: 126 | Kill switch: Yes | Logging: Email address and billing information only | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days on Android | Trustpilot rating: 4.1 | Google Play rating: 4.6 | App Store rating: 4.7
Read More
Show Expert Take Show less
Show less
Surfshark, one of my favorite services, is an affordable and reliable VPN with iPhone compatibility.
Why we like it: During testing, I enjoyed using Surfshark as a „one size fits all“ VPN solution. Sometimes the streaming speeds aren’t the best, and it can take a moment to connect to your preferred server. This VPN still provides excellent value for money.
Surfshark supports devices running iOS 15 and above. The app has many features including ad- and tracker-blocking, a data breach scanner, and multi-hop connections. It’s excellent for iPhone users due to its intuitiveness, simple and quick connection process, and affordable price point.
Review: Surfshark VPN
When I reviewed Surfshark, I also found no information leaks. It offers AES-256-GCM, RSA-2048, and Perfect Forward Secrecy encryption.
I also like the „pause“ function, which allows you to resume your regular, unprotected connection for five minutes, 30 minutes, or a few hours. This comes in handy if you need quick access to specific services only available in your home region.
Who is it for: If you’re looking for a consistently affordable VPN, Surfshark is for you.
Surfshark has excellent deals to consider, starting from $2 per month on a two-year contract or $3.19 per month on the annual plan. The VPN provider has thrown in three extra months on the 12- and 24-month plans.
Who should look elsewhere: Customers say speeds are relatively fast and streaming works most of the time, although some experienced issues with a handful of popular content services. I find Surfshark provides excellent value, but if speed is king, take a look at NordVPN or ExpressVPN instead.
Surfshark VPN features: Simultaneous connections: Unlimited | Ad blocker | Two-factor authentication | Kill switch: Yes | Countries: 100 | Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Fire TV, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, tvOS, and routers | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days on Android, iOS, and macOS | Trustpilot rating: 4.4 | Google Play rating: 4.6 | App Store rating: 4.7
Read More
Show Expert Take Show less
Show less
The ExpressVPN app supports iOS 15 and up, and it’s compatible with all major platforms.
Why we like it: For sheer speed. I’ve used ExpressVPN for years, and it’s a speedy, reliable service with a great server network. I also like ExpressVPN’s Auto-Connect feature on iPhone, which instantly starts a secure VPN tunnel before you connect to any untrusted Wi-Fi hotspot.
Review: ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN has servers located in 105 countries, including all 50 U.S. states. It also ranks among the fastest VPNs, so it shouldn’t reduce your connection speeds as much as the average VPN.
You can use between 10 and 14 connections simultaneously, which means you can spread this VPN’s protection across devices like your desktop PC, laptop, smartphone, and TV.
ExpressVPN doesn’t maintain browsing history logs, but it does keep track of information like the dates you connect and the location of the VPN server you connect to. The details of what is and isn’t logged are
The VPN provider recently secured four new ISO certifications. Within its latest transparency report, ExpressVPN revealed it didn’t hand over any user data despite receiving over 1.38 million DMCA requests and 155 government and law enforcement requests.
Who is it for: Overall, if you’re looking for a set-and-forget VPN with excellent speeds and user-friendliness, ExpressVPN is a top pick.
The best deal is for a two-year plan, which costs $2.44 per month with four months free. A seven-day free trial allows you to test the VPN on an iPhone or any other compatible device.
Who should look elsewhere: Many customer reviews are positive, but the fact that simultaneous connections are not unlimited might be a deciding factor. If so, consider Surfshark.
ExpressVPN features: Simultaneous connections: 10 – 14 | Kill switch: Yes | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Linux, Fire TV, Android TV, tvOS, and routers | Countries: 105 | Logging: No browsing logs, some connection logs | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days on Android and iOS | Trustpilot rating: 3.9 | Google Play rating: 4.7 | App Store rating: 4.7
Read More
Show Expert Take Show less
Show less
IPVanish is an excellent, customizable VPN option for iOS and Mac devices.
Why we like it: IPVanish has depth and plenty of configuration settings for those who want to control almost every aspect of their VPN connection. The service also offers unlimited connections under one account, a feature we always like to see included in VPN packages.
While it doesn’t have the most stylish or intuitive user interface, IPVanish VPN has many protocols, so you’ll always know what to expect regardless of what you’re connecting to. In addition, the app has an extensive range of server selection options.
Review: IPVanish VPN
I find IPVanish to be reasonably fast and also quick to connect. IPVanish’s data transfers are secure, and it’s well-regarded as a secure service. Customers report they are happy with IPVanish’s customer service and the overall speed and reliability of the VPN.
The service’s security is also independently audited, and the company is transitioning to RAM-only servers.
Who is it for: Someone who wants more control over the protocols and settings their VPN utilizes during browser sessions.
You can sign up for a two-year plan for $2.19 per month or a yearly subscription for $3.33 per month. IPVanish supports iOS 14 and up, which could make it the best option for legacy OS users.
Who should look elsewhere: Anyone who is willing to pay a little more each month for more power. While a recent upgrade to its server fleet to 108 locations made IPVanish more competitive, speed still needs improvement.
Note: IPVanish is owned by Ziff Davis, ZDNET’s parent company. For more, see our Editorial Guidelines.
IPVanish VPN features: Simultaneous connections: Unlimited | Kill switch: Yes | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, tvOS, Kodi, and routers | Logging: None, except billing data | Locations: 108 countries | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days on Android and iOS | Trustpilot rating: 4.3 | Google Play rating: 4.7 | App Store rating: 4.6
Read More
Show Expert Take Show less
Show less
In general, I recommend avoiding free VPNs. A free VPN service could still make money selling your data. This defeats the purpose of using the service to protect your identity, activities, and other information — but Proton VPN makes the cut.
Why we like it: The only situation where using a free VPN may not come with security concerns is when it’s a free version of a reputable paid service, as is the case with Proton VPN.
While limited to servers in five regions — the Netherlands, Japan, Romania, Poland, and the United States — you know the plan is supported by paid subscribers, and your data is safe. However, you’ll only be granted one device connection, so choose wisely.
You also won’t be bombarded with ads.
Review: Proton VPN
Proton VPN provides a kill switch, various encryption protocols to choose from, and the benefit of an open-source approach, which allows for transparent third-party auditing. Proton is a Swiss company and adheres to the country’s privacy laws.
More free server locations are also on the firm’s 2026 product roadmap.
Who is it for: Despite poor Trustpilot reviews, many linked to the free plan restrictions, users often report a positive experience with this VPN provider. Reviews note its ease of use, low CAPTCHA block rates on websites, and stable connectivity.
If you need a free — albeit limited — VPN for your iPhone, Proton VPN is a good option.
Who should look elsewhere: If you want access to a full server network and likely better speeds, either opt for Proton VPN’s paid plan or check out another of my recommendations.
If you are interested in adopting the paid version of Proton VPN, you can sign up for a two-year VPN plan at $3 per month. Note that Proton VPN requires iOS 17 or later.
Proton VPN features: Open-source | Simultaneous connections: One to 10, depending on the plan | Countries: 127 | Logging: No-logs policy | Security audits | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, Kodi, and routers | VPN accelerator | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Free option | Trustpilot rating: 2.1 | Google Play rating: 4.7 | App Store rating: 4.6
Read More
Show Expert Take Show less
|
Best VPN for iPhone |
Price |
Kill switch |
Apple App Store rating |
Simultaneous connections |
|
NordVPN |
$3.39 per month |
Yes |
4.7 |
Up to 10 |
|
Surfshark VPN |
$2 per month |
Yes |
4.7 |
Unlimited |
|
ExpressVPN |
$2.44 per month |
Yes |
4.7 |
Up to 14 |
|
IPVanish |
$2.19 per month |
Yes |
4.6 |
Unlimited |
|
Proton VPN |
Free (with limited features) or $3 per month |
Yes |
4.6 |
1 or up to 10 |
*Lowest price at the time of writing. Please note that prices may vary based on retailer and available promotions, sales, or discounts.
Why do I need an iPhone VPN?
Our mobile devices are the keys to many aspects of our lives like communication, entertainment, payments, and accessing local government services. Our iPhones must be protected, and with them, our data.
A VPN encrypts your online traffic and protects your information. If you must use a public Wi-Fi hotspot or an unknown Wi-Fi connection, a VPN can help shield you from eavesdropping and other cyberthreats. Security aside, you may also want to use a VPN to access streaming services and geo-locked content while you’re on the road.
Also: Best Netflix VPN services
Can I trust iPhone VPN services?
As long as you choose a reputable VPN provider that provides a compatible iOS app, it will be safe to use. Steer clear of free VPN services with little to no customer feedback, as they may be malicious and steal your data.
|
Choose this VPN for iPhone… |
If you want… |
|
NordVPN |
The best iPhone VPN overall. NordVPN is a solid, feature-rich VPN. NordVPN’s speeds and server network are impressive, but the price point for this reliable, secure VPN on shorter plans might be off-putting for some. |
|
Surfshark VPN |
A top VPN that can just about do it all, and for an affordable price. Surfshark performs well in speed tests, earns solid customer reviews, and has an easy-to-use iOS mobile interface. |
|
ExpressVPN |
The speediest VPN for iOS. We’ve found that ExpressVPN connections are reliable almost all the time. The mobile version of the VPN is simple, user-friendly, and comes packed with different server options. You can also take advantage of a seven-day free iOS trial. |
|
IPVanish VPN |
A highly flexible VPN. IPVanish offers a range of security and connectivity settings for you to choose from, although if you want to take full advantage of different protocols, you will want some technical knowledge. |
|
Proton VPN |
A free VPN. This Swiss VPN provider takes security seriously, and while the free version is restricted, it is still an excellent choice — but the paid option removes all limits. |
When selecting your new iPhone VPN in 2026, consider the following factors:
- Price: Try to take advantage of promotions, but ignore countdown timers. They are typically just marketing tools. While VPNs that specialize in something — such as access in China — can cost upwards of $10 per month, many excellent ones are available for only a few dollars per month. However, when considering the price of a VPN, remember that most require an upfront payment for at least a year, if not the full contract term.
- Simultaneous connections: If you’re paying for a VPN for your iPhone or iPad, you might still want to use it across multiple devices, such as a desktop PC or laptop. We recommend you sign up for a plan with support for at least five to six devices, although preferably one with unlimited simultaneous connections.
- Contract length: You must also decide how long you want to use the VPN. A two-year term tends to secure the best prices, but monthly, six-month, and one-year options are often also available. After you’ve made a selection, you typically have a 30-day money-back guarantee, though some services offer a 45-day trial before you commit.
- Free services: If you’re willing to shop around, many of the top VPNs on the market frequently offer between two and four months of free access, added to the length of a contract, for new subscribers to one and two-year contracts.
- Apps: When selecting a VPN, try it out first to ensure you like its accompanying iOS app. Some VPNs, for example, have great desktop software but need further development of their mobile apps, which may not be as intuitive or easy to use.
- Compatibility: Many VPN providers offer compatible apps going back generations, but if you have an older, legacy device, check before signing up, as some VPNs will now only go back to around iOS 15.
- Trials: Many VPN providers will give users a free seven-day iOS trial, so consider trying a few out before you commit to a purchase. You can usually take advantage of a trial simply by downloading a VPN from the Apple App Store.
Many providers recommended in this list have been subject to in-depth testing and reviews by members of our team. We’ve been talking about other VPNs for years, spoken with their management and their users, and developed a generally favorable impression.
ZDNET tests VPN services from multiple locations, but we can’t test from all locations. Every home, every community, every local ISP, and every nation has a different infrastructure. It’s essential that once you choose, you test for all your likely usage profiles and only then make the decision to keep the service or request a money-back guaranteed refund, which all these VPNs have.
If you experience traffic slowdowns, check your VPN and the Wi-Fi connection between your device and your router or access point. Sometimes, connectivity issues begin at the source, and in other cases, switching your selected VPN server may be enough to resolve speed problems or connectivity drops.
I analyzed the best VPNs for iPhones below using the following criteria:
- Performance: Our top VPNs must have a minimum level of performance. After all, there’s no point in using a VPN while streaming if your connection continually drops or lags.
- Simultaneous connections: Many VPNs limit how many devices you can connect to a service at the same time. If you have a phone, tablet, laptop, desktop, and possibly even a smart TV you want to connect to a VPN, you’d need a service that allows at least six simultaneous connections.
- Security: There’s no point in using a VPN unless its security protocols and encryption levels are up to scratch. We also ensured the development team behind each recommended VPN cares about making security improvements and patching reported bugs.
- Kill switch: A kill switch prevents you from having an unprotected connection. It is an important feature for a VPN to have, as it protects by preventing a return to a default Wi-Fi connection should your internet connection unexpectedly drop.
- Geo-blocks and streaming: We know VPNs can be key to accessing local content and services while you’re away from home. We ensured that our top recommendations performed well in these scenarios and are unlikely to slow down your connection while streaming.
- Platforms: What systems and devices can you run the VPN on? Our iPhone VPN recommendations, naturally, have to run easy-to-use and intuitive mobile apps.
- Countries & servers: In how many different countries does the VPN have servers? This can include physical and virtual servers, and whether there are enough — at least 50 or so — to provide variety.
- Trial length and price: Each VPN we recommend has a solid money-back guarantee.
-
Support: As with any subscription software, you may encounter problems with installing apps, using the service, renewing, or canceling. We listed VPNs with an available support team.
Check out our comprehensive VPN testing methodology page for a more extensive breakdown.
Latest news in the VPN space
- In what will be the UK government’s latest censorship push, age verification checks are being considered for VPN users.
- ExpressVPN and its parent company, Kape Technologies, earned four new ISO certifications.
- Custom DNS services are on Proton VPN’s product roadmap for iOS, macOS, and iPad OS.
- Russia has almost achieved its goal of removing U.S.-based social media apps from the country, as well as VPN services the Kremlin does not control.
- BulletVPN has closed its doors without warning, leaving some lifetime subscribers in the lurch. Windscribe has since offered some users complementary Pro subscriptions for six months.
A VPN shouldn’t be very resource-intensive, and so should not slow down your iPhone, but you may notice a lag in internet speeds as your requests go through your VPN’s server network. As you are implementing a „middleman“ connection, most VPNs will cause speed degradation of up to 30%.
Depending on the strength and base speed of your internet connection, streaming, and gaming may be impacted.
Apple iPhones do not have an built-in VPN, although you can install one using a mobile device management (MDM) solution. iOS does, however, support VPN use and many VPN providers have developed iOS-native mobile applications.
The latest version of iOS is iOS 26.3, released on February 11.
It is likely that your VPN will remain compatible, as vendors will update their software as necessary. If you have an older iPhone, you may find that support for legacy iOS versions is phased out over time. Many VPN apps are now only compatible with iOS 15 and above.
Setting up a VPN on your iPhone is fairly simple. Download one of the apps above from Apple’s App Store. Once you’ve created a login and started your subscription, you are ready to connect securely.
Do not download any apps from untrusted sources. Mobile device management (MDM) solutions using VPNs can be configured in iOS settings.
See also: How to set up a VPN on your router
Perhaps. That depends on how much you trust your carrier. You’re better off encrypting your data when it’s in motion, whether you use Wi-Fi or a carrier connection. Overall, it’s still recommended to use a VPN no matter the type of internet access you use.
Apple iCloud+ Private Relay is an iCloud+ feature. If you buy any iCloud storage, you’ll get the iCloud+ features. While Private Relay can hide your email address and location, it only does it when you’re using Safari. If you’re using Chrome, or any applications that use the internet directly, you’re out of luck. The service is also not available in all countries.
It also shows up as a proxy server. You also can’t change or hide your location, as you can with a full VPN. Private Relay is a feature of iCloud+. A VPN is a full security solution.
All software, regardless of whether they are VPNs or not, require computing resources to function. In turn, performing functions on a device — a PC, smartphone, tablet, or otherwise — needs power. So yes, a VPN will use your iPhone’s battery, but it shouldn’t be too noticeable.
If your smartphone is unexpectedly drained of battery, behaving suspiciously, or is hot to the touch, something might be going wrong. For example, there may be a malware infection or hardware problems.
Also: The best antivirus software and apps you can buy
Yes. We recommend that you do so to prevent any unexpected data leaks or inadvertent exposure like if you forget to enable your VPN when you log in to your local coffee shop’s public Wi-Fi. At the least, ensure that you always use a VPN if you have to use a public Wi-Fi hotspot or access sensitive online services such as banking.
There are many free VPNs available for mobile devices, including those in Apple’s ecosystem. That said, nothing in life is truly free, and you will likely be handing over your data in return for the service. They may also not be trustworthy, may be ad-supported, and may track your online activities.
Those that are free but from trustworthy companies are few and far between. ProtonVPN and Windscribe’s free VPN options are among those we support, although they are limited.
VPNs are important for establishing secure connections when abroad. Whether you’re working from another country or you simply want to stream your favorite TV show, we compiled a list of the best VPNs for travel.
You might want a VPN that works best with the iOS ecosystem or another operating system. If you’re on the hunt for other trustworthy options, we’ve also created a guide to the best VPN services of 2026 with an explainer on free VPNs and whether they’re worth it.
Latest updates
- February 2026: In ZDNET’s latest update, we revised our guide to the best iPhone VPNs of 2026, including a thorough revision of our top recommendations.
- July 2025: In ZDNET’s July update, we performed editorial changes, updated the latest news on our top choices, and ensured all pricing and deals are up-to-date.
- May 2025: In May, we performed substantial copy and layout changes.
Alternative iPhone VPNs to consider
Show less
PrivadoVPN is one of the most affordable VPNs on the market and one we recommend for use with the iPhone smartphone range. While it has a small server network, plans begin at only $1.11 per month. You’re unlikely to find much cheaper on the market.
Recently, PrivadoVPN added PhantomMode to its iOS app, a device-level feature that blocks hidden trackers and data collectors without an active VPN connection.
Read More
Show Expert Take Show less
Show less
CyberGhost is a strong VPN with one of the best money-back guarantees on the market, giving you 45 days to decide if you want to continue with the service. It’s also great for streaming with fast, specialized servers available for the task. Plans start at $2.19 per month with two months of free service.
Read More
Show Expert Take Show less
Show less
Based in Sweden, externally audited, and offering anonymous accounts, Mullvad is a highly secure VPN for €5 ($5.92) per month. If you want security first, Mullvad should be on your radar. The service’s previous experiences with law enforcement have shown the company is focused on maintaining user privacy.
Read More
Show Expert Take Show less
Show less
Windscribe is an alternative iOS VPN if you want a free, albeit limited VPN. Windscribe is one of the few free VPNs we are able to recommend, as the service does not collect or share your data. You can also create your own custom VPN subscription package from $1, depending on how many server locations you need.
Read More
Show Expert Take Show less
We hope this guide on the best Apple iPhone VPNs has been useful. If you’d like to explore our VPN coverage, we have also created a guide on the best VPNs around, our favorite VPNs for streaming, and the best Android VPNs of 2026.
