Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Premium VPN on Your iPhone - Featuring In-Depth Reviews From Professionals

Now that the iPhone 16 has arrived with new colors, AI features, and camera controls – and with it, iOS 18 -- you may also be on the lookout for a new way to improve your online privacy. While Apple’s iPhones of all models and generations tend to have excellent connectivity, we always recommend using a virtual private network (VPN) service to keep your data and browsing safe while on the go.

Trustworthy VPNs encrypt your online traffic when you access email, social media, and online services. While you’re on the road or if you have to rely on public Wi-Fi hotspots, they are excellent tools for protecting your data from eavesdroppers. And if you’re looking to stream content that isn’t available in your area, a VPN can potentially unlock access by changing your IP address (although this can be a legal gray area).

We’ve tested every top VPN on the market and found the best ones that offer solid iPhone clients, good performance, robust security, and are suitable for the Apple ecosystem.

Also: The best travel VPNs

Disclaimer: This post includes affiliate links

If you click on a link and make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

What is the best iPhone VPN right now?

Based on extensive testing, our pick for the best VPN for iPhone is NordVPN . While it is not the cheapest service available, NordVPN is known for its rapid speeds, solid connectivity, and massive server network. Furthermore, the NordVPN iOS app (iOS 14.2 and above) is user-friendly and won’t noticeably drain your battery with continual use.

If you don’t want to spend anything, the best free VPN for iPhone is Proton VPN because of its top-tier security features – rare for a free VPN. However, know that the free version is quite limited.

Best VPN for iOS in 2024

Show less

View now at NordVPN

Pros

• Simple, straightforward app installation
• Consistent speed and performance
• Attractive user interface

Cons

• Expensive monthly plans
• Can be costly upon renewal

Price $13 for one month of access, $69 for the first year with an extra 3 months or $100 for the first two years with an extra 3 months (one- and two-year plans renew at $90 per year)

Latest tests No leaks detected, 11% speed loss in 2024 tests

Network 6,300-plus servers in 111 countries

Jurisdiction Panama

NordVPN

Best iPhone VPN overall

NordVPN is one of the more popular VPN offerings in the App Store. Installing NordVPN on the iPhone is a simple, painless way to secure predictable performance across regions, and the service is compatible with iOS 14.2 or later .

NordVPN’s interface is user-friendly, and during testing, we found the service offered consistent, reliable speeds that do not impact streaming services or make a noticeable difference to internet surfing.

It has many tools in addition to a standard VPN service. NordVPN’s Onion over VPN is a special category of NordVPN servers that enables Tor capabilities, supports peer-to-peer file sharing, and allows you to connect through a second server for an added layer of protection. You can also set up a dedicated IP address for an additional fee.

We consider this VPN to be one of the best available, combining speed, server availability, reliability, and a high number of simultaneous connections. NordVPN has increased the number of simultaneous connections from six to ten devices. New server locations have also increased from 60 to 111, which now includes Greenland, the Isle of Man, Trinidad and Tobago, and Bermuda.

We’ve tested NordVPN for years and have always been impressed with its stable connectivity and rapid speeds. Customers generally report fast speeds and minimal buffering with easy setup, although some caution that you should turn off auto-renewal.

Review: NordVPN

In addition to iOS, NordVPN runs on all the most popular platforms. Prices start from $3.59 per month on a two-year standard plan, with three months of free access thrown in. Yearly plans begin at $4.99/month. If you only want to try out NordVPN for a month, prices begin at $12.99/month.

NordVPN has also recently begun offering additional cybersecurity options, such as identity theft and cyber extortion coverage, under Ultimate plans, which begin at $6.49/month.

**NordVPN features: Apple App Store rating: 4.7 | Simultaneous connections: 10 | Kill switch: Yes | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, tvOS, routers | Logging: None, except billing data | Countries: 111 | Servers: 6,000+ | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days, Android

Show Expert Take Show less

Show less

View now at Surfshark VPN

Pros

• Unlimited simultaneous connections
• Excellent pricing on two-year plans
• Fast connection times

Cons

• Expensive monthly plans
• Streaming can be slow

Price $11 per month, $48 for the first year (or $59.54 for 2yrs)

Latest Tests No leaks detected, 17% speed loss in 2023 tests

Network 3,200-plus servers in 100 countries

Jurisdiction Netherlands

Surfshark VPN

Best budget iPhone VPN

Surfshark VPN is an affordable and reliable service. We found no information leaks and fast connection times when we reviewed it. Luckily, the company doesn’t skimp on security. It offers AES-256-GCM, RSA-2048, and Perfect Forward Secrecy encryption.

Surfshark supports devices running iOS 14.0 or higher. The VPN has many features, including ad and tracker blocking, a data breach scanner, and multi-hop connections (connecting through two servers). This VPN is excellent for iPhone users because of its user-friendliness, uncomplicated and quick connection process, and reasonable price point.

That said, specific tools aren’t available for iOS devices, as is the case for most VPN providers. If you want to use the Bypasser tool (Surfshark’s split tunneling feature), you must use the Windows or Android app.

During testing, we’ve enjoyed using Surfshark as a “one size fits all” VPN solution. Sometimes, the speeds aren’t the best while streaming, but connecting is quick. We also appreciate the “pause” function, which allows you to resume your normal connection for five minutes, 30 minutes, or a few hours. Customers say that speeds are relatively fast and streaming works the majority of the time, although some have experienced issues with Netflix and other popular content services.

Review: Surfshark VPN

You can pay $15.45 for a month of access, $2.99 per month on a one-year plan, or only $2.19 if you are happy to remain a subscriber for at least two years. The VPN provider has also thrown in three months of free access on 12-month and 24-month plans.

**Surfshark VPN features: Apple App Store rating: 4.8 | Simultaneous Connections: Unlimited | Kill switch: Yes | Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Fire TV, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, tvOS, routers | Logging: None, except billing data | Countries: 100+, 3,200 servers | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days on Android, iOS, and MacOS

Show Expert Take Show less

Show less

View now at ExpressVPN

Pros

• Works on an exceptionally large number of platforms outside of iOS
• Speedy connections
• Lots of countries to connect through

Cons

• More expensive than competitors
• Limited simultaneous connections
• Cancelling can be a slow process

Latest Tests DNS leaks detected, 25% speed loss in 2024 tests

Network 3,000 plus servers in 105 countries

Jurisdiction British Virgin Islands

ExpressVPN

Best iPhone VPN for server range and usability

The ExpressVPN app supports iOS back to iOS 15.0. So, as long as your iPhone runs on iOS 15 or higher, you can use ExpressVPN. In addition to iOS, it supports all major platforms. There are browser extensions for Edge, Chrome , and Firefox, and a VPN service for gaming is also available.

If you want the most options for countries to connect to, ExpressVPN has servers located in 105 countries. ExpressVPN ranks among the fastest VPNs, so it shouldn’t reduce your connection speeds as much as the average VPN.

Review: ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN doesn’t maintain browsing history logs, but it does keep track of some information, such as the dates you connect and the location of the VPN server you connect to. The details of what is and isn’t logged are stated in ExpressVPN’s privacy policy .

We’ve used ExpressVPN for years and found it to be a speedy, reliable service with a great server network. Many customer reviews are positive, but the pricing model and renewal hikes aren’t popular.

Overall, if you’re looking for a set-and-forget VPN with decent speeds and user-friendliness, ExpressVPN is a top pick. Each plan is limited to eight simultaneous devices.

Other subscription offers are $9.99 monthly for six months or $12.95 for one month of access. Alternatively, signing up for a 12-month plan is $6.67/month, with three months of free access and a year of Backblaze cloud backup. The iPhone app comes with a 7-day free trial.

ExpressVPN features: Apple App Store rating: 4.7 | Simultaneous connections: 8 | Kill switch: Yes | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Linux, Fire TV, Android TV, tvOS, routers | Logging: No browsing logs, some connection logs | Countries: 105 | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days, Android and iOS

Show Expert Take Show less

Show less

View now at IPVanish VPN

Pros

• Unlimited connections
• Highly configurable app
• Affordable

Cons

• Mediocre user interface
• Expensive monthly plans
• Few additional privacy features

Price $12 a month or $54 for the first year (then $90 annually)

Latest tests No leaks detected, 26% speed loss in 2023 tests

Network 2,000-plus servers in 75-plus locations across 52 countries

Jurisdiction United States

IPVanish VPN

Best configurable VPN for iPhone

IPVanish has depth and plenty of configuration settings for those who want to control almost every aspect of their VPN connection.

While it’s not the most stylish VPN with the best interface, IPVanish VPN has many protocols, so you’ll always know what to expect regardless of what you’re connecting to. The app has an abundance of configuration options, and there’s an extensive range of server selection options. The service is also independently security-audited.

Review: IPVanish VPN

We found IPVanish to be impressively fast and quick to connect. However, it couldn’t hide that we connected through a VPN, which could be an issue in countries where internet connectivity and activities are monitored at the state or ISP level. That said, IPVanish’s data transfers were secure and provided a good user experience. Customers report they are happy with IPVanish’s customer service and the overall speed and reliability of the VPN.

IPVanish is an excellent option for iOS and Mac devices . You can sign up for a two-year plan for $2.19 per month or a yearly subscription for $3.33/month. Alternatively, if you don’t want to sign up for the long haul, you can pay $12.99 for a month of access. IPVanish supports devices back to iOS 14.

**IPVanish VPN features: Apple App Store rating: 4.5 | Simultaneous connections: Unlimited | Kill switch: Yes | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, tvOS, Kodi, routers | Logging: None, except billing data | Servers: 2,200+ | Locations: 75 | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days on Android and iOS

Show Expert Take Show less

Show less

View now at Proton VPN

Pros

• No data cap
• Solid iOS app
• Top-tier security features
• Open source

Cons

• Just one connection allowed
• Only five countries with free servers

Proton VPN

Best free VPN for iPhone

In general, we recommend you avoid free VPNs . A free VPN service could even make money selling your data, which defeats the purpose of using a VPN to protect your identity, activities, and other information.

Review: Proton VPN

The only situation where using a free VPN wouldn’t necessarily come with security concerns is when it’s a free version of a reputable paid service, as with Proton VPN. While limited to servers in five countries, you know the plan is supported by paid subscribers, and your data is safe. You won’t be bombarded with adverts, either.

Despite poor Trustpilot reviews, many users report a positive experience with this VPN provider, noting its ease of use, low CAPTCHA block rates on websites, and stable connectivity.

If you are interested in adopting the paid version of Proton VPN, you can sign up for a 24-month VPN plan at $4.49/month, a 12-month subscription at $4.99, or a one-month agreement at $9.99. Note that Proton VPN requires iOS 15.0 or later.

ProtonVPN is a Swiss company, but you can make payments in US dollars.

Proton VPN iOS features: Apple App Store rating: 4.6 | Simultaneous connections: 1 (free) Up to 10 (paid) | Kill switch: Yes | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, Kodi, routers | Logging: No-logs policy | Customer service: FAQ, email | Data limit: None | Free countries: 5 | Free servers: 100+ | Paid plans: 4,000+ servers in 100 countries | Trial: Free plan

Show Expert Take Show less

VPNs for iPhones, compared

*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. Communication, payments, accessing local government services, and even as a way to entertain ourselves with content and games: our iPhones must be protected, and with it, 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 geolocked content while you’re on the road.

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 or only available in return for your data.

Which is the right iPhone VPN for you?

Factors to consider when choosing a VPN for iPhone

When you are selecting your new iPhone VPN, you need to consider the following factors:

• Cost: You need to consider the overall cost of your new Apple-ready VPN. Try to take advantage of promotions, but ignore countdown timers – they typically are just marketing tools. While top-notch VPNs can cost upwards of $10/month, many are available for only a few dollars.
• Simultaneous connections: If you’re paying for a VPN suitable 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 four to six devices, although preferably one with unlimited simultaneous connections.
• Contract length: You must also decide how long you want a VPN. A two-year term tends to secure the best prices, but monthly, six-month, and one-year options are available. After you’ve made a selection, you typically have a 30-day money-back guarantee.
• Apps: When selecting an iPhone or iPad VPN, you must 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: iOS 18, released on September 16, 2024, is the latest version of the iPhone operating system. Many VPN provides will provide compatible apps going back generations, but if you have an older device, check before signing up.
• 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.

How we test VPNs

Screenshot by Charlie Osborne/ZDNET

Many providers recommended in this list have been subject to in-depth testing and reviews by members of our ZDNET team. We’ve been talking about other VPNs for years, spoken with their management and their users, and developed a generally favorable impression.

ZDNET does test 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.

We analyzed the best VPNs for iPhone below using the following criteria that were most important in helping you make an informed decision:

• 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, making it intolerable.
• 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 five 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 cared about making security improvements over time 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.
• Geoblocks 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 factors 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 & price: Each VPN we recommend has a solid money-back guarantee.

Check out our comprehensive VPN testing methodology page for a more extensive breakdown.

FAQs on VPNs for iPhone

Does a VPN slow down your iPhone?

A VPN shouldn’t be very resource-intensive, and so should not slow down your iPhone. However, you may notice a slowdown in internet speeds as your requests go through your VPN’s server network. Depending on the strength and base speed of your internet connection, streaming and gaming may be impacted.

Do new iOS devices come with a pre-built VPN?

Apple iPhones do not have an inbuilt VPN, although you can install one using a mobile device management (MDM) solution. However, iOS does support VPN usage and many VPN providers have developed iOS-native mobile applications.

Will my VPN work with the latest version of iOS?

The latest version of iOS is iOS 18 , released on 16 September. It is likely that your VPN will remain compatible as vendors will update their software as necessary. However, if you have an older iPhone, you may find that legacy iOS versions – such as iOS 14 – are phased out over time. Many VPN apps are now only compatible with iOS 15.0 and above.

How do I set up a VPN on my iPhone?

Setting up a VPN on your iPhone is fairly simple. You need to download one of the apps on our list in the Apple App Store. Once you’ve created a login and started your subscription, you are ready to connect securely.

Ensure you do not download any apps from untrusted sources. Mobile device management (MDM) solutions utilizing VPNs can be configured in iOS settings .

See also: How to set up a VPN on your router

Do I need a VPN if I just use my carrier’s data?

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 have in use.

Isn’t iCloud+ Private Relay a VPN? Why do I need another VPN?

Apple iCloud+ Private Relay is a feature of iCloud+. If you buy any iCloud storage, you’ll get the iCloud+ features. But 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.

Are there any free iPhone VPNs?

There are many free VPNs available for mobile devices, including those in Apple’s ecosystem. However, 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’s free VPN is an option we support, although it is extremely limited.

What is the best VPN for travel?

VPNs are important for establishing secure connections when abroad. Whether you’re working from another country or simply want to stream your favorite TV show, we compiled a list of the best VPNs for travel .

What is the best VPN overall for different operating systems?

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 2024 with an explainer on free VPNs, and whether they’re worth it.

Are there alternative iPhone VPNs worth considering?

Other than our recommendations for the best VPNs for iPhone and iPad, other services can get the job done. Here are a few alternative options that are secure and reputable:

See also: CyberGhost VPN review

Best alternative for affordability Private Internet Access A budget-friendly iOS long-term VPN option for $2.19 per month, with two months of access thrown in for free. View at Private Internet Access Best alternative with a long money-back guarantee CyberGhost 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. Plans start at $2.19/month with two months free. View at CyberGhost Best alternative for data privacy laws Mullvad VPN Based in Sweden, externally audited, and anonymous accounts make Mullvad a highly secure VPN for €5 ($5.88) per month. View at Mullvad

Newsletters

ZDNET Recommends

ZDNET saves you time and money by delivering the best products and tech deals to your inbox every week.

Subscribe

See all

ZDNET Recommends

The best smartwatches you can buy: Apple, Samsung, Google, and more compared

The 5 best VPN services (and tips to choose the right one for you)

The best Android phones you can buy (including a surprise pick)

The best robot vacuum and mop combos (and if they’re worth the money)

• The best smartwatches you can buy: Apple, Samsung, Google, and more compared
• The 5 best VPN services (and tips to choose the right one for you)
• The best Android phones you can buy (including a surprise pick)
• The best robot vacuum and mop combos (and if they’re worth the money)

Also read: