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The Best VPNs for Android in 2026

VPNs aren't just for computers; your Android phone or tablet can also benefit from one. We've tested the top contenders to help you choose the right Android VPN for your needs.

 & Justyn Newman Senior Writer, Security

Our team tests, rates, and reviews more than 1,500 products each year to help you make better buying decisions and get more from technology.

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It's worth securing your Android device with a VPN. It keeps your connection private, whether you’re using a phone while out and about or are streaming your favorite show with a tablet from the comfort of your couch. Using a VPN keeps your mobile service provider and any other malicious third parties from spying on your traffic. Anyone who tries to get eyes on your browsing data will find that it appears to originate from the VPN’s server instead of your Android device. We put a wide range of VPNs through a rigorous testing process and singled out our favorite choices for Android. Proton is our Editors' Choice winner, thanks to its free tier and robust coverage, but plenty of worthy services on this list might work better for you, so read on for all of our top picks.

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Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks

  • Proton VPN
    Credit: Proton
    Best Overall

    Proton VPN

    5.0 Exemplary

    Pros & Cons

      • Best free plan we've seen
      • Industry-leading privacy standards
      • Global server network
      • Slick, accessible client
      • Numerous additional privacy tools
      • Ample customer support options
      • High latency scores in testing

    Proton VPN is packed with features at an extremely affordable price and offers one of the best free subscriptions we've seen. Particularly appealing features include a Kill Switch and NetShield, the latter of which is Proton's ad and tracker blocker. We were pleased to see that the Android app does a good job translating the Proton VPN experience to mobile.

    Why We Picked It

    Features and capabilities: Proton’s Android app packs a ton of features into a minimalist dashboard. NetShield is a built-in ad and tracker blocker that we found to be quite effective on text-based sites. Each plan allows for 10 simultaneous device connections. Proton has servers tailored for streaming, peer-to-peer (P2P) traffic, TOR access, and multi-hop SecureCore connections. The Android experience felt like a direct port of the full Windows version rather than a stripped-down app lacking features. 

    Privacy and security: The people behind Proton take privacy seriously, with an unyielding commitment to transparency and accountability that is rare in the VPN space. All apps are open-source, so you never have to question if there’s a hidden vulnerability that could compromise your data. Annual audits and frequent transparency reports demonstrate that Proton consistently maintains its standards year after year.

    Speed and performance: Proton’s premium servers rank in the middle of the pack in terms of performance, with a 20.11% decrease in download speeds, a 43.21% decrease in upload speeds, and a 351.26% increase in latency. 

    Streaming: We had no issues streaming Netflix with Proton. Proton’s premium servers worked flawlessly, granting us access to every regional catalog we tested. 

    User experience and ease of use: The Android app is streamlined and intuitive, making it easy for both beginners and experienced users. Features are easily accessible and clearly labeled on mobile. It’s easy to tell when you’re connected to a server, and you can access advanced options with just a couple of taps.

    Who It's For

    Users who want a free VPN: Those on a budget should consider trying Proton by downloading the free version first. After learning how to use it and determining whether it best suits your Android device's needs, you can upgrade to the paid version.

    Users who want additional features: Proton is packed with advanced features like multi-hop, split tunneling, and Net Shield. Additionally, all of Proton’s extra security tools, such as its password manager and encrypted email service, offer generous free versions.

    Specs & Configurations

    500+ Servers
    Blocks Ads
    Can Manually Select Server In Free Version
    Free Connection Speeds Limited No
    Free Version
    Free Version Server Limit US, Netherlands, Japan
    Free Version Data Limit Unlimited
    Free Version Simultaneous Connection Limit 1
    Geographically Diverse Servers
    No Ads In Free Version? Yes
    Public Third-Party Audit
    Server Locations 129 countries
    Simultaneous VPN Connections 10
    Supported Protocols on Android WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2
    Supported Protocols on iOS WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2
    Supported Protocols on macOS WireGuard, IKEv2
    Get It Now
    Learn More Proton VPN Review
  • NordVPN
    Credit: NordVPN
    Best for Experienced VPN Users

    NordVPN

    4.5 Outstanding

    Pros & Cons

      • Support for multi-hop, split tunneling, and Tor connections
      • Excellent speed results
      • Global server coverage
      • Wealth of available features and add-ons
      • Built-in antivirus tools
      • Expensive, and annual pricing could be clearer
      • Antivirus component could be better

    With a large server network and a collection of privacy tools, NordVPN's offering on Android is hard to beat. The Android app brings many of the service's best features for an uncompromising mobile experience. 

    Why We Picked It

    Features and capabilities: NordVPN’s advanced features are configurable on Android. You can take advantage of NordLynx, which is a fast, open-source, and reliable protocol. It also provides access to split tunneling and multi-hop connections. Nord’s Threat Protection Pro keeps you safe from malware and blocks nasty trackers that could try to keep tabs on your browsing habits.

    Privacy and security: Nord maintains transparent privacy standards with third-party audits and a frequently updated transparency report. NordLynx utilizes open-source technology, allowing you to examine what makes the service tick. Nord doesn’t keep logs, and its no-logs policy has been independently verified in multiple security audits by VerSprite, Cure53, Deloitte, and PriceWaterhouseCoopers (PWC). 

    Speed and performance: Nord has consistently delivered excellent performance in our tests. It reduced our download speeds by just 5.20%, upload speeds by 5.78%, and increased our latency by 58.14%. Just keep in mind that your experience may vary depending on your proximity to a Nord server. 

    Streaming: Streaming with Nord was streamlined. We didn’t experience any buffering or stuttering with videos. Additionally, Nord managed to unblock every regional Netflix library that we tested against. 

    User experience and ease of use: Nord’s Android app is simple and easy to use, although you may find it somewhat basic if you’re coming from the more configurable desktop dashboard. All advanced settings are tucked away neatly behind various tabs. 

    Who It's For

    Netflix users: Those seeking to access location-locked streaming content will appreciate NordVPN's extensive server selection. 

    Experienced techies who require premium security: Those with advanced VPN needs will derive the most value from a NordVPN subscription. Features like the company's unique Meshnet offering are interesting and expansive, but they may be confusing to anyone unfamiliar with VPN use.

    Specs & Configurations

    500+ Servers
    Blocks Ads
    Free Version Data Limit No Free Version
    Geographically Diverse Servers
    Server Locations 118 countries
    Simultaneous VPN Connections 6
    Supported Protocols on Android NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN
    Supported Protocols on iOS NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec
    Supported Protocols on macOS NordLynx (based on WireGuard), OpenVPN, IKEv2
    Get It Now
    Learn More NordVPN Review
  • ExpressVPN
    Credit: ExpressVPN
    Best for Global Travelers

    ExpressVPN

    4.0 Excellent

    Pros & Cons

      • Large, diverse, widely distributed fleet of servers
      • Fast speed test results
      • Strong privacy and security practices
      • Support for post-quantum encryption protocols
      • Expensive monthly and annual plans
      • No multi-hop connections
      • Ad blocking is spotty
      • Ownership with a sketchy past

    For frequent flyers who love their Android devices, ExpressVPN is an enticing option. Its large collection of far-flung server locations makes it ideal for stable connections anywhere you roam. These connections enable high speeds and low latency across various parts of the globe.

    Why We Picked It

    Features and capabilities: ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol is known for its reliability and is backed by post-quantum encryption, making it suited for consistent video streaming. You can also take advantage of split tunneling if you want to watch local content while the rest of your traffic remains encrypted.  

    Privacy and security: ExpressVPN is transparent about its data practices. The service does log some aggregate data about user data usage, but the company claims that none of this information can be tied back to user accounts. Biannual transparency reports reinforce this claim, as well as the 22 independent security audits that Express has undergone. 

    Speed and performance: ExpressVPN decreased download speeds by 18.55%, upload speeds by 7.45%, and increased latency by 95.62%. These scores place it ahead of most services.

    Streaming: Netflix access was seamless with ExpressVPN. We pitted it against five regional catalogs from the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and Japan. It performed well, giving us unrestricted access to every single one. 

    User experience and ease of use: ExpressVPN features a sleek and intuitive interface. Its single-button connection screen makes it a breeze to get connected, and the settings menu features a range of advanced options for those who want to fine-tune their connection. 

    Who It's For

    Frequent travelers: VPN users seeking numerous server location options will appreciate the sheer size of ExpressVPN's server network alone. The company also offers robust security features across all its mobile offerings, including those for Android.

    Binge watchers: ExpressVPN is for those who want fast, reliable streaming. The VPN's specialized Lightway protocol makes it an excellent option for streaming, gaming, and browsing. 

    Specs & Configurations

    500+ Servers
    Blocks Ads
    Free Version Data Limit No Free Version
    Geographically Diverse Servers
    Server Locations 105 Countries
    Simultaneous VPN Connections 10-14
    Supported Protocols on Android Lightway
    Supported Protocols on iOS OpenVPN, IKEv2
    Supported Protocols on macOS Lightway, OpenVPN, L2TP
    Get It Now
    Learn More ExpressVPN Review
  • TunnelBear VPN
    Best for First-Time VPN Users

    TunnelBear VPN

    4.0 Excellent

    Pros & Cons

      • Unlimited simultaneous connections
      • Excellent privacy policy
      • Annual independent audits
      • Friendly, approachable design
      • No multi-hop connections
      • Unimpressive customer support

    While its friendly bear design makes the app approachable, TunnelBear VPN is a ferocious defender of privacy with a remarkable transparency policy. Its Android app allows you to use app-level split tunneling.

    Why We Picked It

    Features and capabilities: TunnelBear has servers in 47 countries and doesn’t place a cap on simultaneous device connections. You receive advanced obfuscation in the form of GhostBear, a protocol that mimics HTTPS to bypass common VPN blocks. TunnelBear also offers a free version that allows you to try out all aspects of the app if you’re unsure it's the right choice for you. You aren’t limited to a slim selection of servers or barred from using advanced features or protocols. However, you are limited to 2GB of data per month. 

    Privacy and security: TunnelBear’s privacy policy is thoughtfully designed and easy to read. Every point is illustrated with a real-world example of how TunnelBear handles that specific instance, inquiry, or data point. TunnelBear has undergone seven separate independent audits that have verified the company’s stalwart stance on privacy. Regularly updated transparency reports reinforce this point, revealing that the service has never handed over user information in response to an inquiry or lawful order. 

    Speed and performance: TunnelBear performed below average in our most recent bout of speed tests. It decreased our download speeds by 83% and our upload speeds by 72%. Latency also saw a significant increase of 109%. Keep in mind that speed tests vary based on a variety of local factors, which is why we don’t recommend purchasing a VPN based solely on speed tests. 

    Streaming: Streaming with TunnelBear was reliable. The VPN consistently unblocked Netflix in all tested regions. TunnelBear has servers in 47 countries, which is average. While it may not have the most comprehensive server network, it services the most popular countries that offer regional streaming catalogs. 

    User experience and ease of use: One of TunnelBear’s most standout features is its intuitive and fun design. The fun and brightly colored interface is easy to use, featuring bears at every turn. It’s not too cluttered. It’s not too sparse. This interface is just right. A map makes it easy to tell where you’re connecting to, and you’ll get a cute animation of a bear tunneling to the region that you choose to connect to. Advanced features and additional configuration options are just a couple of clicks away. 

    Who It's For

    Newbies: TunnelBear’s ursine-packed theme is playful and charming, with custom animations and illustrations for all in-app features. But don’t let the fun fool you! TunnelBear is an excellent pick that is only made better by its whimsical design philosophy. 

    Users who want a free VPN: Fun and free go hand in hand with TunnelBear. You can give the bear-themed Android app a whirl without having to pay, though I’d keep an eye on your honey stash. The full TunnelBear app can be used for free as long as you stay under the 2GB monthly cap, making it a great option for trying the service before subscribing.

    Specs & Configurations

    500+ Servers
    Are All Features Available In Free Version?
    Blocks Ads
    Can Manually Select Server In Free Version
    Free Connection Speeds Limited No
    Free Version
    Free Version Server Limit All Servers
    Free Version Data Limit 2GB per month
    Free Version Simultaneous Connection Limit Unlimited
    Geographically Diverse Servers
    No Ads In Free Version? Yes
    Public Third-Party Audit
    Server Locations 45 Countries
    Simultaneous VPN Connections Unlimited
    Supported Protocols on Android OpenVPN
    Supported Protocols on iOS WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2
    Supported Protocols on macOS WireGuard, OpenVPN
    Get It Now
  • Mullvad VPN
    Best for Bargain Hunters

    Mullvad VPN

    4.5 Outstanding

    Pros & Cons

      • Affordable
      • Requires no email or account information
      • Radically transparency
      • Open Netflix access in all regions tested
      • Awkward desktop interface
      • No transparency report or warrant canary
      • Servers in a small range of countries

    Mullvad VPN has an unusual, privacy-focused account system for an unbeatable price. We find the simplicity of its Android app a little more accessible than its desktop client, as the app is light on features but performs capably and reliably while maintaining a VPN connection.

    Why We Picked It

    Features and capabilities: Mullvad has a lot of great features at the affordable price of just five euros. It has a robust ad and tracker blocker that performed well on text-based sites during our tests. It features advanced functionalities such as multi-hop, split tunneling, and access to a customer-only, privacy-based search engine called Leta. Each subscription supports five simultaneous device connections. 

    Privacy and security: You can use Mullvad without attaching any personal information to an account. The privacy policy outlines all aspects of how the company handles data. Mullvad is a no-logs VPN that does not retain user data, and the company takes a stance against affiliate marketing by not engaging in it or any paid sponsorships to promote its service. The VPN’s policy measures were put to the test in 2023 when it was subject to a search by the Swiss police, which resulted in no data being found or handed over.

    Speed and performance: Mullvad performed well in our latest bout of speed tests. It reduced our download speeds by 10.57%, upload speeds by 4.23%, and increased our latency by only 15.90%. Please keep in mind that we don’t recommend selecting a VPN solely based on speed scores. Our tests are a snapshot of a single location at a single time. Your experience will likely vary based on your proximity to a VPN server, among other factors. 

    Streaming: We test every VPN we review against five regional Netflix catalogs: the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and Japan. Mullvad successfully granted open access to all catalogs without issue.

    User experience and ease of use: Mullvad’s Android interface is simple but fully featured. It's easy to set up a connection and scroll through the server list. Advanced options are just a couple of clicks away, making it easy to configure the VPN to your liking. It’s not as flashy as its higher-priced competitors, but we appreciated its simplicity and ease of use.

    Who It's For

    Minimalists: Mullvad VPN will appeal to individuals seeking basic VPN coverage at a reasonable price without having to disclose sensitive personal information. It features a simple and easy-to-use interface, making it a great choice for those seeking a basic VPN. 

    Users who want affordable privacy: Mullvad VPN is ideal for the privacy-conscious shopper, and its low price also makes it attractive. For just five euros per month, you get a full-fledged VPN with split tunneling and multi-hop connections.

    Specs & Configurations

    500+ Servers
    Free Version Data Limit No Free Version
    Geographically Diverse Servers
    Server Locations 50 Countries
    Simultaneous VPN Connections 5
    Supported Protocols on Android WireGuard, OpenVPN
    Supported Protocols on iOS OpenVPN, WireGuard
    Supported Protocols on macOS WireGuard, OpenVPN
    Get It Now
    Learn More Mullvad VPN Review
  • Surfshark VPN
    Credit: Surfshark
    Best for Unlimited Simultaneous Connections

    Surfshark VPN

    4.0 Excellent

    Pros & Cons

      • Excellent server coverage and performance
      • Impressive suite of security features
      • Well-defined privacy policy
      • Quarterly transparency reports
      • Affordable long-term plans
      • High monthly cost
      • Average server network size

    Surfshark VPN has just about every feature you'll need, including unlimited simultaneous connections. Existing customers will be pleased to see that the service's excellent design, originally featured in the desktop client, is carried over to Android, making it simple for even novice VPN users to navigate the app.

    Why We Picked It

    Features and capabilities: Surfshark's network boasts good global coverage, with a presence in 100 countries. Advanced connection options, such as multi-hop and post-quantum encryption, enable you to tailor your security preferences with ease. Surfshark aims to be a one-app security solution. You can configure an antivirus, ad blocker, and additional identity protection tools all in one place. No features are absent compared with the desktop version. 

    Privacy and security: Privacy policies can be confusing and dense. Surfshark adopts a beginner-friendly approach and offers an in-depth yet digestible policy that explains how the company handles user data. The service has verified these claims with frequent third-party audits and quarterly transparency reports.

    Speed and performance: Surfshark's performance was impressive. We only saw a 3.25% decrease in download speeds, a 6.07% decrease in upload speeds, and an increase in latency of 83.92%.

    Streaming: Netflix access was no problem for Surfshark. It accessed every regional catalog we tested without running into blocks. We did not experience stuttering or slow load times even when connected to distant locations.

    User experience and ease of use: The Android app appears to be a bit cluttered compared with the Windows version. It’s still usable and has all of the features you need, but new users, especially, may find it overwhelming. 

    Who It's For

    Media streamers: Surfshark is a solid choice for those looking to watch their favorite shows from anywhere without compromising on security. The VPN was one of the fastest we have tested, and it easily unblocked regional Netflix catalogs. 

    Users who want a one-app solution: The biggest selling point for Surfshark is its ecosystem of privacy tools. It's a good choice for those who may not want a handful of subscriptions to different services. With Surfshark, you can configure an array of tools all from a single control hub under one account.

    Specs & Configurations

    500+ Servers
    Blocks Ads
    Free Version Data Limit No Free Version
    Geographically Diverse Servers
    Server Locations 100 Countries
    Simultaneous VPN Connections Unlimited
    Supported Protocols on Android WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2
    Supported Protocols on iOS WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2
    Supported Protocols on macOS WireGuard, IKEv2
    Get It Now
  • Windscribe VPN
    Credit: Windscribe
    Best Company Transparency

    Windscribe VPN

    4.5 Outstanding

    Pros & Cons

      • Industry-leading company transparency and communication
      • Large number of payment options
      • Best free plan of any VPN we've tested
      • Anonymous signup allowed
      • Unlimited number of simultaneous connections and devices
      • Helpful AI support bot
      • Short refund window

    Windscribe's steadfast dedication to user privacy and open-source systems will be a welcome sight for fans of Android. With a stellar mobile experience on Android, you have a recipe for mobile VPN success.

    Why We Picked It

    Features and capabilities: Windscribe allows for unlimited simultaneous device connections and grants access to a sizable physical server network. The VPN offers advanced features, including split tunneling and double-hop (also known as multi-hop) server connections. Android isn’t missing out on any notable features and performs just as well as the full Windows version. 

    Privacy and security: Windscribe doesn't log your data. Its fast and anonymous signup process allows you to use the VPN app without disclosing a lot of personal data. Next, you can pay for the app using various payment methods, including cryptocurrency. On Windscribe's website, you can find the company's ethics statement and a transparency report that details every request the company receives from law enforcement. 

    Speed and performance: Windscribe's performance was solid. Download speed test scores decreased by only 10.66%, upload speed test scores decreased by 13.20%, and latency increased by 67.01%. 

    Streaming: We were able to watch Netflix without any restrictions while connected to Windscribe’s network. We could access the entire library when connected to five Windscribe servers in Australia, Canada, Japan, the UK, and the US.

    User experience and ease of use: Minimalists will appreciate Windscribe's Android app interface. It’s simple and straightforward to use, without skimping on advanced settings. You can use the one-button dashboard to get connected quickly, or you can dive into a detailed settings menu full of tutorials and useful links.

    Who It's For

    Users who value privacy: Like many VPNs on the market, Windscribe is reasonably priced and offers a full range of features. However, where it stands head and shoulders above others is its transparency regarding user privacy. As a no-logs provider, Windscribe guarantees that no identifying information about its customers will be handed over to law enforcement agencies that submit records requests. 

    Users who want to stay anonymous: Windscribe has a completely anonymous signup process that doesn't require an email address to get started. You can also make payments in cryptocurrency to avoid your identity being tied to the account.

    Specs & Configurations

    500+ Servers
    Blocks Ads
    Free Version
    Free Version Data Limit 10GB Per Month
    Geographically Diverse Servers
    Server Locations 69 Countries
    Simultaneous VPN Connections Unlimited
  • IVPN
    Credit: IVPN
    Best for Minimalist Design Fans

    IVPN

    4.0 Excellent

    Pros & Cons

      • Affordable pricing with many options
      • Powerful multi-hop system
      • Privacy is baked into its account system
      • Strong stance on transparency
      • Few server locations
      • Slow speed scores in testing
      • Limited simultaneous device connections

    IVPN utilizes an account system that safeguards your privacy from the outset. We like how crisp the service's minimalist design looks on Android. The app also offers many helpful features, including app-level split tunneling and a kill switch.

    Why We Picked It

    Features and capabilities: IVPN supports up to seven simultaneous device connections and comes with advanced features, including a kill switch, split tunneling, and multi-hop. AntiTracker does what its name implies, blocking unwanted trackers and ads while you browse the web. IVPN’s multi-hop implementation stands out by allowing you to build custom paths rather than choose from pre-made options. Just remember that you’ll need to opt for the slightly more expensive Pro plan to access advanced options, such as multi-hop. 

    Privacy and security: You don’t have to provide any personal information to use IVPN. Each account is tied to a unique identifier, rather than a traditional username and password. You can even send cash directly to IVPN to pay for your account if you don’t want any credit card or alternative payment method tied to your subscription. Beyond payment options, IVPN has an in-depth privacy policy, doesn’t keep any logs, and undergoes frequent third-party audits from Cure53 to verify its policies. 

    Speed and performance: IVPN performed below average in our latest round of speed tests. It slowed our download and upload speeds by 80.24% and 85.01%, respectively. Latency saw a significant increase of 155.81%. 

    Streaming: We test every VPN to see if it can access five regional Netflix catalogs: the US, UK, Japan, Canada, and Australia. IVPN performed well and gave us unrestricted access to each region’s library without any issues. 

    User experience and ease of use: IVPN features a simple and straightforward interface on Android. Despite its simplicity, it offers numerous configuration options, allowing you to tailor your connection to your specific needs. All operating systems share a similar design and experience, which makes it easy to switch between devices and platforms.

    Who It's For

    Minimalists: Simplicity seekers will love IVPN's pared-down design choices. IVPN's affordable pricing and built-in privacy features further sweeten the deal, making it a highly competitive VPN at a reasonable price. 

    Users who want flexible pricing: IVPN offers a unique subscription model that allows you to pay by the week, month, or year. If you only need a VPN for a few days, then IVPN is one of the few services that can accommodate such a short subscription length.

    Specs & Configurations

    Blocks Ads
    Free Version Data Limit No Free Version
    Server Locations 32 Countries
    Simultaneous VPN Connections 7
    Supported Protocols on Android WireGuard, OpenVPN
    Supported Protocols on iOS WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2
    Supported Protocols on macOS WireGuard, OpenVPN
    Learn More IVPN Review
The Best VPNs for Android in 2026

Compare Specs

Select Up To 3Select Up To 2
Our Pick
Rating
5.0 Exemplary
4.5 Outstanding
4.0 Excellent
4.0 Excellent
4.5 Outstanding
4.5 Outstanding
4.5 Outstanding
4.0 Excellent
5.0 Exemplary
4.5 Outstanding
4.0 Excellent
Best For
Best Overall
Best for Experienced VPN Users
Best for Global Travelers
Best for First-Time VPN Users
Best for Bargain Hunters
Best for Unlimited Simultaneous Connections
Best Company Transparency
Best for Minimalist Design Fans
Best Overall
Best for Experienced VPN Users
Best for Global Travelers
Free Version
500+ Servers
Simultaneous VPN Connections
10610-14Unlimited5UnlimitedUnlimited710610-14
Supported Protocols on Android
WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPNLightwayOpenVPNWireGuard, OpenVPNWireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2WireGuard, OpenVPNWireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPNLightway

Buying Guide: The Best VPNs for Android in 2026


What Does a VPN Do on Android?

You're still connecting to networks that may track and sell your data when you use your Android mobile device. It may not be your internet service provider (ISP) keeping tabs on your activity, but it will be an ISP or a network host doing the exact same thing that you protect yourself from at home. A VPN for Android is just as useful at home for specific tasks, such as streaming regional content.

Public networks pose somewhat more risk than a regular home connection. While the risk of direct attacks has decreased significantly since the late 2010s due to the widespread adoption of HTTPS, certain man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks and hostile LAN networks can still expose your data. Someone could walk into a public place and set up a fake Wi-Fi network that impersonates a trusted network, using an SSL stripping attack to remove HTTPS protection and compromise your data. These attacks are often targeted rather than the old days of malicious individuals casting wide nets in the hopes of catching unsuspecting users off guard. A VPN can help mitigate these rare attacks.

It’s important to be realistic and understand the threats to your privacy. A VPN is a layer of security that protects your data from malicious actors and entities that may want to sell that data, such as your ISP. In the situation described above, a VPN would prevent your sensitive details from being readable by the network spy. However, a VPN doesn’t stop every type of threat you may face online.

While some VPN services claim to protect you against malware and phishing sites, standalone antivirus software generally performs better. To protect against account takeovers from password leaks, we strongly recommend using a password manager to create strong, unique passwords for every site you use. We also recommend enabling multi-factor authentication wherever it's available. VPNs make it harder for you to be tracked online, but advertisers and snoopers are not defeated so easily. Advertisers can still read and track data saved to websites or in your browser. In addition to using a VPN, you can further protect your data by reading and understanding the privacy policies of your Android device and your preferred browser.

VPNs improve your online anonymity, but they don't remove traces of your activity from saved logins, protect you from malware, or secure your passwords. It is also key to pick a trustworthy VPN; otherwise, it could have as much insight into your online activity as your ISP. When reviewing VPNs, we examine their privacy policies and conduct interviews with company representatives to gain insight into their efforts to protect customers. It also helps if the VPN company has undergone a third-party audit of its privacy policy and security measures. However, where we draw the line may differ from where you do. Select a VPN that you trust with your personal information.


Do Android VPNs Work With Netflix?

Some do, but the answer isn’t a simple yes or no. You can use a VPN to spoof your location and access regional Netflix catalogs or your home catalog while traveling abroad. Aside from streaming access, journalists and activists have utilized this capability to circumvent restrictive internet controls imposed by various governments.

Video streaming services and VPNs have been locked in a never-ending battle as both services have grown in popularity. Once a VPN finds a new way around a block, the streaming service deploys a new method to block that access. This can be a difficult field to navigate as a user of both services. We have our most reliable picks for services like Netflix, but their policies and methods are known to change rapidly. You could find that a reliable VPN you’ve used for years suddenly blocks you one day. 

We have compiled testing of Netflix compatibility across many different VPN services, which you can see below:

It is best to proceed cautiously and try a VPN’s free trial or a lower-tier subscription before committing to a lengthy plan. If you primarily use your VPN to access streaming services, it may even be best to stick with a monthly subscription.


Which Free VPN Is Best for Android?

Regardless of platform, price is a key concern. Most VPNs cost around $10 per month. It’s normal for that figure to fluctuate a couple of dollars in either direction, but you should be wary of paying more than that without adequate justification. Likewise, be cautious of deals that appear too good to be true. Our list of the cheapest VPNs is an excellent starting point, and our list of free VPNs gets the job done without opening your wallet. 

Proton is the only service without data restrictions, making it the only genuinely free VPN on the list. However, the free tier limits your server locations to eight countries and allows you to use the free VPN service on only one device at a time.

About Our Expert

Justyn Newman

Justyn Newman

Senior Writer, Security

My Experience

My writing journey started in 2012 and has taken me through various niches, but my main focus has always been on tech. I contributed to several growing PC hardware and software sites, focusing on gaming, peripherals, and privacy.

As the amount of information we put out on the internet has grown, so have the threats and the tools we use to combat them. With VPNs gaining traction in the late 2010s as a tool for the public instead of just an option for business security, I found myself reviewing countless options in this continuously changing landscape.

This led to my role before PCMag over at WizCase, where I honed my knowledge of VPNs and privacy tools and eventually oversaw all of the content produced. I led a talented team of fellow writers and editors to evaluate VPNs, password managers, antivirus, and parental controls.

The Technology I Use

I love small-form-factor PCs. My current ITX build uses an ASRock B650i motherboard, 32GB of RAM, a Ryzen 5 7600X, and an EVGA 3060 Ti, all nestled within the beautiful LZX-8 case by Lazer3D.

I have that connected to an MSI 34-inch ultrawide as my primary monitor. My second monitor is an older Acer 24-inch that only houses Discord and YouTube Music. Since I spend most of my time writing, I value a good keyboard. I use a Neo65 with Gazzew U4T Silent Bobas. My mouse is a Logitech MX Master 3S. For audio, I have a set of Edifier R1280Ts, or I’ll wear my trusty Sennheiser HD 6XXs. 

For work, I use a Lenovo P14s connected to everything mentioned above. If I'm taking personal work or studying on the go, I use a sticker-bombed Framework 13 powered by a Ryzen 5 7640U. Specifically for drafting fiction, I built a writing ‘cyberdeck’ that connects to my Neo 65 for a Raspbian-powered writing setup with minimal distractions. Regarding mobile devices, I’ve been on the Pixel train since the first one launched, and I am currently using a Pixel 9 Pro.

Outside of computing, I always carry a few key pieces of tech on my person. I have a Kindle Scribe that I use for note-taking and reading the latest speculative fiction. For music, I carry a Walkman NW-A55 with a pair of Rose Technics QuietSea IEMs. I do some light gaming on my re-shelled PSP 3000 running Infinity 2.0 CFW. When I'm not at the computer, you’ll usually find me lugging around my Pentax K1000 with a couple of rolls of Ektar 100 on standby.

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