Best VPN Apps for Android in 2021

If you open the Google Play Store and search for a VPN for Android, you’ll see more than a hundred options to choose from. However, which one of them is truly the best?

Well, we decided to answer this question so you don’t have to go through tens of crappy Android VPNs until you find a really good one.

It took us a while to pick the best VPN applications for Android phones. We had to rule out a lot of VPNs because of various reasons like privacy issues or buggy software. In turn, we came up with a list of VPN apps that won’t disappoint anyone.

Best Android VPN apps:

1. NordVPN – the best VPN for Android devices
2. Surfshark – low price and unlimited connections
3. Atlas VPN - a great free VPN for Android
4. PrivateVPN - a simplistic Android application
5. PureVPN - an all-round Android solution

How to set up a VPN on Android

Installing a VPN on Android is a peace of cake. It’s even easier than installing one on your computer, as you don’t even need to follow the instructions on the installation wizard.

So, this is how you install a VPN on Android:

1. Go to the Google Play Store and search for NordVPN or another VPN service
2. Tap the green Install button to download the VPN app
3. Launch the app and log into your account or sign up for a new one (in this case, you’ll need to also pick a plan)
4. Choose the region you want to connect to. That’s it!

Visit NordVPN

You may also go to Settings and explore the features and connection options available to you.

The best VPNs for Android - our detailed list:

The list below features only the best VPNs for Android devices. All you need to do is pick an application that seems to suit your needs, download it, and enjoy all the perks a Virtual Private Network can give you.

1. NordVPN - the best VPN for Android

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Few VPN services can boast such popularity as NordVPN. In my book, it is the best VPN for Android because of its steady balance between security, speed, and functionality. In other words, it suits the needs of any VPN user.

Let’s begin with the fun stuff. If you download NordVPN, you’ll start watching more movies than ever before. That’s because this is one of those VPNs that unblock Netflix and other streaming platforms.

Next, let’s talk about security. You might like to know that NordVPN uses RAM-only servers, which means that none of your info can be physically stored long-term. Other than that, NordVPN’s privacy policy has been audited not once, but twice.

As for the tunneling protocols, the Android app of NordVPN offers both OpenVPN and NordLynx (a super fast in-house WireGuard-based protocol).

Additionally, the Android application has a kill switch, as well as the split tunneling, pausing, and auto-connect features.

In short, if you’re looking for the best VPN for Android phone, NordVPN will be the one that will definitely knock your socks off.

2. Surfshark - unlimited device coverage

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One of the best (and cheapest!) VPNs for Android, Surfshark has already taken a huge bite out of the VPN market, boasting millions of customers all over the world. It’s also one of those VPNs that you’ve heard about over and over again thanks to numerous Youtube ads.

And I’m happy to tell you that Surfshark’s popularity isn’t just a fad. Let’s take a closer look at their Android application.

First of all, Surfshark Android allows you to choose from three different VPN protocols: OpenVPN, WireGuard, and even Shadowsocks (which is more of a proxy that works even in China).

Next, the Android app has a neat feature called GPS spoofing. It lets you spoof your physical GPS location, allowing you to successfully trick the other apps installed on your phone. For example, this can be helpful when playing Pokémon GO.

You can also use Surfshark to watch Netflix: the Android application successfully unblocks a selection of libraries, including the US one. Other accessible streaming platforms include Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Youtube.

However, what I like about this VPN the most is the possibility to use a single account on unlimited devices at the same time. If you and your family have lots of computers and phones, this makes Surshark not just cheap but virtually free!

3. Atlas VPN - a great free VPN for Android

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Atlas VPN is definitely one of the best VPNs for Android, and not only because it has a free version.

At its core, the Android app doesn’t differ that much from its Windows counterpart. It supports the same tunneling protocol (IPSec/IKEv2), as well as the same level of encryption (AES-256).

It also has a really nice user interface. It not only looks pretty, but is also easy to use - just what I’d expect from a quality service.

However, that’s not it. You also get a bunch of great features to try out. A data breach checker, tracker blocker, system-wide kill switch - all of this is tightly packed into a single app.

If you’re eager to get your hands on the Android app of Atlas VPN, you can do it by either downloading the free version or investing in a paid one that starts from $1.39 a month and has more servers and countries.

4. PrivateVPN - a simplistic Android application

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The Android app of PrivateVPN looks simple, yet it packs a bunch of features useful to both beginners and advanced users alike.

So, PrivateVPN Android brings you unlimited bandwidth, really fast speeds, and the possibility to use 6 devices simultaneously.

When it comes to security, you won’t be disappointed. The Android app is protected by military-grade encryption, lets you choose between two extra secure tunneling protocols (OpenVPN TCP and OpenVPN UDP), and has a no-logs policy.

The Android version of PrivateVPN also protects your device against IPv6 leaks and lets you choose to automatically turn on the VPN on startup. There’s also a kill switch that will allow you to use the internet only when connected to a VPN server.

As there’s no free version, you’ll have to choose one of the subscription plans of PrivateVPN. The cheapest option is buying a 2-year subscription, which would cost you $2.50 a month. Alternatively, you can get a 3-month plan for $6.00 a month, or a 1-month subscription for $8.99.

5. PureVPN - an all-round Android solution

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The PureVPN app for Android is great. I like it much more than its Windows counterpart, which could use some design improvements.

So, what puts it among the best VPN apps for Android? Well, first of all, it supports a tunneling protocol perfect for mobile devices - IKEv2. It is very stable, allowing for a frictionless change between wifi and mobile data.

Next, we have a wide choice of countries. PureVPN offers 6,500+ servers in 140+ countries, which means you’re likely to find the exact location you need. You can also pick a specialized server for streaming, file sharing, security, and bypassing restrictions.

What’s more, PureVPN unblocks various streaming services like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and DAZN. So, if you have a Netflix app on your Android, simply connect to a VPN server, launch the streaming application, and you’ll be able to enjoy all the movies blocked in your region.

You can get PureVPN (with 10 simultaneous connections) for as low as $3.33 a month. However, if a 2-year plan sounds a bit too much, you can get a one-year subscription for $5.83 a month or a monthly plan for $10.95.

6. VyprVPN - say goodbye to internet censorship

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Slick, modern, and extremely useful - this is the Android app of VyprVPN. It could be argued that the Android version of VyprVPN is the best one of all, as it packs the most features in comparison to other apps of the provider.

This VPN for Android has a kill switch, split tunneling, and lots of customization options. For example, you can set the VPN to connect automatically or even use another DNS provider.

When it comes to tunneling protocols, the application gives you a few different choices: OpenVPN, WireGuard, and even Chameleon.

The latter is a stealth protocol that can help you bypass online censorship imposed by oppressive governments. It’s immune to a technology known as Deep Packet Inspection (DPI), which, otherwise, is able to detect VPN traffic.

However, there’s one protocol you won’t find on VyprVPN Android app (which is included in its other versions) - IKEv2. Luckily, WireGuard makes up for it in terms of speed.

In addition, you’ll be able to watch lots of geo-blocked content. VyprVPN works wonders with Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Youtube, and even DAZN.

So, what else do Android users get from VyprVPN? A three-day free trial! Granted, you’ll need to provide your credit card details, but you’ll be able to see whether this VPN truly fits your needs.

7. ExpressVPN - what more could you need?

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Even though ExpressVPN is among the best VPN solutions for Android, I can’t put it too high on the list because of its relatively high price. In comparison to such services like Surfshark (that charge a couple bucks a month), the subscription of ExpressVPN might seem a bit outrageous, starting at $8.32 a month.

However, what you actually get for that price is well worth it. For example, Android users get to choose between OpenVPN and Lightway. The latter is a revolutionary protocol designed to be extremely lightweight and secure at the same time.

You’ll also get a bunch of features that will make your browsing much more secure than before. Network Lock, for example, is a built-in kill switch that will shut down your internet in case your VPN connection gets compromised. The Android app also offers split tunneling, shortcuts, and auto-connect options.

In addition, if you’re an Android fan and a movie buff at the same time, ExpressVPN will be the perfect service for you thanks to a huge list of streaming services it unblocks. Keep in mind that ExpressVPN also offers a feature called MediaStreamer. It allows you to watch geo-blocked movies and shows on devices that don’t support VPN connections.

Don’t forget that you can always make use of ExpressVPN’s 30-day money-back guarantee if you don’t seem to vibe with the service.

How we selected and tested these VPNs

All the Android VPN apps you see on this page have been researched and tested by our team of security experts. Which means that you’re getting only the best of the best. However, how does one know what really makes a VPN good?

Below, I’ve listed the things that we look for when choosing the finest VPN services. You can even use this bullet list as a guideline when trying to determine whether a VPN you’re looking at is worth your money or not.

• Tunneling protocols. Unfortunately, the selection of tunneling protocols for Android VPN apps is usually smaller than the one for Windows or macOS. However, it’s important to have a wider choice in case a certain protocol is blocked or simply doesn’t work with your device.
• Features. Usually, it’s the Windows version that gets all the neat features that the VPN provider advertises left and right. Meanwhile, mobile apps get only the basics. To select only the best VPN services for Android, we looked for applications that offer more than simple protection.
• Logging policy. As VPNs are all about privacy, you have to make sure that the one you’re about to download offers a no-logs policy. In other words, a reputable VPN for Android won’t collect any personal information, including your real IP address.
• Streaming. As Netflix, Hulu, and other streaming platforms have their own Android applications, it’s important to have a VPN that would unlock the geo-blocked libraries you need. Luckily, most VPN providers on this list can easily help you with that.
• Simultaneous connections. Let’s admit it - the more simultaneous connections a VPN offers, the cheaper it becomes in the long run. It’s especially great when you can use a single subscription on unlimited devices (like in the case of Surfshark).
• Price. With the exception of ExpressVPN, all of the best VPNs for Android on this list are incredibly cheap. I’m not saying that an expensive VPN is a bad VPN - but it’s always nice to spend as little as possible if you can get away with it.

Do I really need a VPN on Android?

Yes - when it comes to security and online privacy, Android owners actually need a VPN more than PC users.

Why? Well, that’s mainly because the users of mobile devices can go through many different wifi connections throughout the day. For example, you may connect to public wifi when waiting for your burger at McDonald’s, requesting an Uber ride, or simply messaging your friends at the mall.

The truth is, public wifi networks might pose certain threats (like personal data leakage). By encrypting your traffic, a VPN will prevent such things from happening.

However, public wifi isn’t the only reason to use a VPN on your Android. You might actually need one even if all you do is sit at home. That’s because you can use a VPN to broaden your Netflix movie selection. VPNs like Surfshark or NordVPN work with the Netflix app, letting you watch the content you previously couldn’t.

Another reason for using the best VPN for Android is bypassing various blocks imposed by your country. For example, if you live (or travel) somewhere where Youtube is blocked, a VPN can be a real lifesaver. Of course, you should first check if a VPN is legal in your region in the first place.

What to look for when choosing a VPN for Android?

It’s easy to choose a VPN for your Android device when you know what to look for. Here are some of the main points you should consider when trying to determine, which VPN is truly the best for your Android:

• Safety. First and foremost, your Android VPN should be safe to use. This means it must come from a reputable company and have an audited no-logs policy.
• Streaming experience. There are lots of good streaming applications for Android (like Netflix), and having a VPN that bypasses their geo-blocks will allow you to broaden your selection of content to watch.
• Extra features. While Android VPNs aren’t known for a wide selection of features, having a few can be pretty helpful. Split tunneling, specialized servers, and GPS spoofing are the main things you should look for.
• Speed. Having good speeds is essential when you use a VPN on mobile. When picking a VPN for Android, you can check for fast and stable tunneling protocols like WireGuard or IKEv2, which are perfect for smartphones.

Is it safe to use a VPN on my Android?

Yes, it’s not only safe to have a VPN on your Android device - it’s actually preferable.

Of course, to stay safe, you need to use (and I can’t stress this enough) a reputable VPN service. That is, a no-logs VPN audited by an independent company. Otherwise, you might actually increase your risk by using a VPN.

Luckily, all the best Android VPN services featured on this list (together with any other VPN mentioned on this website) are completely safe. No logging, no scams, no third-party data buyers. Only pure protection.

However, if you’ve just browsed through Google Play, stumbled upon a nice-looking VPN, and are tempted to try it, write a comment on this very page and we’ll tell you whether the program is truly safe for your Android.

Can I leave my Android VPN on all the time?

Yes, you can leave your Android VPN on at all times if you’re in need of privacy. Keeping the VPN on will make sure that your real IP address doesn’t get accidentally exposed. Also, your ISP won’t be able to see your browsing history, which is another great plus.

However, you should keep a few things in mind. Certain applications might need your real location (or at least your real country) to function properly (like Tinder or Uber Eats). Also, a VPN usually decreases your internet speed, which means your connection will be constantly slowed down.

You should also know that a VPN, like any other application, uses your phone’s battery. In other words, you might need to charge your phone a bit more frequently if you leave your VPN on all the time.

Does Android have a built-in VPN?

Most Android phones have a built-in VPN that lets you configure your VPN connection manually. Granted, it’s much more limited than a VPN app, but it’s still better than nothing.

For example, it can be helpful if your country blocks VPN applications or if you have your own VPN server and want to connect to it without additional apps.

Usually, your Android VPN lets you choose between three different tunneling protocols: PPTP, L2TP, and IPSec. Keep in mind that the former is rather outdated, so I don’t suggest using it.

So, here’s how you use your Android VPN client (the instructions might slightly differ depending on your device):

1. Go to Settings and open the Network & Internet tab
2. Click on VPN (you might need to click on Advanced before that)
3. Now, press the plus symbol on the top-right corner of your screen
4. Fill in the necessary info (username, password, server address)

Generally, the username and password will be the email and password of your VPN account. Now, to get the server address, you need to download a VPN connection certificate first. Click here for the instructions on how to get a NordVPN certificate.

What is the best free VPN for Android?

If you don’t need a VPN for anything fancy and simply want to encrypt your traffic, a free VPN is a great option to consider. Here are a few services that offer a free application for Android users:

• ProtonVPN. Offers unlimited data and bandwidth with servers in the Netherlands, Japan, and the US.
• AtlasVPN. Has unlimited data and bandwidth with servers in Japan, Australia, and the US.
• Windscribe. Offers 10 GB of free data in 11 different countries.
• Hide.me. Gives you 10 GB of free data in four regions in total.

However, keep in mind that there are a lot of free VPNs that might do more harm than good. For this reason, never download a service that looks even slightly shady.

In fact, it’s best to use a freemium VPN that also offers a paid subscription. In this way, you can see that the service makes money from sales instead of personal user data.

Conclusion

With the upcoming launch of Android 12, it’s apparent that this fan-favorite operating system isn’t going away anytime soon. And with a steadily increasing user base, it’s more important than ever to determine which VPNs are the best ones to ensure that Android users get the privacy and security they deserve.

More VPN guides from CyberNews:

Best VPNs for iPhone: protect your online traffic

Best VPNs for Linux: improve your privacy on Linux

Best VPNs for Mac: protect your device with a VPN

Best VPNs for Android TV box: unblock every streaming service

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