This guide explores the best VPNs for Android devices in 2024, highlighting providers that offer the greatest connection security. Online privacy has become a top priority, even for mobile devices. VPNs are therefore recommended for encrypting data traffic, not communicating information or personal data to third parties, browsing anonymously, and accessing geographically limited content.
In the following lines, the best free and paid Android VPNs will be presented, along with the criteria for choosing the one best suited to your needs and the smartphone configuration procedure, which will be reported step by step to facilitate the experience even for newbies. Anyone can find all the information necessary to navigate on their Android device with maximum protection.
We have analyzed many VPN services, comparing their speed and security, which log policies they use, and which encryption protocols they use; here, we list the best offers on the market.
Installing a virtual private network on devices connected to the Internet is a good practice, especially on smartphones, which are frequently the target of cyber attacks. These devices contain a lot of personal data and are used for financial transactions and online purchases, thus making banking data and credit card information vulnerable. A VPN for Android can prevent this data from being leaked.
But the reasons don’t end there. Smartphones are often connected to public Wi-Fi networks and, therefore, exposed to cyberattack risks. An attacker on the same network can easily intercept communications or steal credentials. Even the use of the device as a personal hotspot can also increase vulnerability: the networks created can be compromised, making personal data accessible to third parties. Common attack techniques include data sniffing and man-in-the-middle attacks, which aim to manipulate communications to obtain sensitive information or influence specific actions.
A virtual private network creates a secure channel between your device and your home or business network, protecting sensitive data during transit.
Before scrolling through the full list of providers, we selected the best Android VPNs of the month based on recently implemented new features and updates.
The first service to mention is NordVPN, which is always working to update itself and integrate new features. Among the latest innovations is translating all Android apps into another language for greater ease of use. Furthermore, servers with dedicated IPs have been launched in major European cities. These are unique static IP addresses that can only be used by one user.
Finally, we would like to point out that the Meshnet functionality is free, even without a subscription.
Another provider that has stood out is ExpressVPN, which has integrated its password manager and Key to create, save, and manage an unlimited number of credentials. This tool also suggests security improvements and reports any data breaches.
In addition, the provider recently launched two new features designed specifically for its apps (and therefore also for Android): the possibility of eliminating intrusive advertisements while browsing the Internet and a filter to prevent access to explicit materials. Finally, its server network has been expanded to 105 countries.
NordVPN ( full review here ) is one of the best-known VPNs for Android.
It is a service that has achieved a good market share over time. Its success largely comes from its connection speed – the company boasts 6,200 servers in 104 countries to choose from – and its high level of protection. The provider uses AES 256-bit encryption and protects user privacy from all points of view, primarily with a no-logs policy that does not store personal data.
NordVPN is useful for filtering advertising and malware, using P2P networks, such as those underlying Torrents, and unblocking streaming content from other countries. If, for example, you want to watch a TV series exclusively on Netflix USA, connect to a server in the United States.
The annual plan costs €4.69 per month, and a refund policy applies in the first 30 days of use in case of dissatisfaction. The NordVPN app can be downloaded from the Play Store or directly from the official website, and it is now also available in other languages.
SurfShark deserves a prominent place in this guide to the best Android VPNs 2024. The merit goes above all to the excellent quality-price ratio. For €1.99 per month for the two-year plan, you subscribe to an excellent service in terms of speed and protection.
There are approximately 3,200 servers available to users located in more than 100 countries, including some in our country. Download speeds are always above average. Some of these servers are also optimized for downloading files and multimedia content, all easily reachable with the Android application.
All connections are encrypted with the AES 256-bit standard and the IKEv2 protocol. Browsing data is not recorded.
The very convenient function called “Network Lock” allows you to prevent data loss in case of disconnection from the server during the download. Finally, if you are a streaming maniac, Surfshark also works perfectly to bypass geoblocking and thus enjoy the programming of other countries. You can read the dedicated guide to learn more about how Surfshark works.
CyberGhost ( review ) features one of the largest server networks in the industry, with 10,218 servers in 100 countries. Among these, many are dedicated to streaming to access all the most famous services, such as Netflix or Disney+, from all the countries where the servers are located. Although slightly slower than NordVPN or Surfshark, their browsing speed is very good.
This is an excellent VPN for Android that allows you to unlock many features that would otherwise be unavailable with a traditional connection. One of its strong points is undoubtedly the anonymity maintained throughout navigation. This is guaranteed by a rigorous no-log policy and AES 256-bit, a real fortress in case of an attempt to steal your data.
CyberGhost’s Android app boasts IKEv2, OpenVPN, and the recent WireGuard among the available security protocols.
The two-year plan costs € 2.03 monthly, with four months free. It also includes a well-made and functional Android application.
Compared to the services we have listed so far, PrivateVPN performs a more specialized task and is especially recommended for those who travel frequently.
The main objective of this provider is to work even where there are strong restrictions on VPNs, such as in China. It will be really simple to access all websites, such as YouTube or Facebook, just to name the most famous. PrivateVPN has a smaller footprint, with around 200 servers in 100 countries.
For streaming and downloading via the torrent platform, a series of optimized servers are available to customers. They are very stable and have good browsing speed.
Also, in this case, there is 2048-bit military-type encryption, perfect for keeping browsing and personal data safe. PrivateVPN’s paid plans start from €2.08 per month for the three-year plan, which includes the “Satisfied or refunded” policy.
ExpressVPN is another big name in the Android VPN scene, and it is one of the best providers of the month. Launched in 2019, this service has won over many users worldwide thanks to its ease of use and features.
Browsing is protected by AES 256-bit encryption accompanied by TrustedServer technology, which is at the forefront of privacy protection. In this way, none of your browsing data will remain on the servers used.
This provider offers 3,000 users spread across 105 countries. Each server also supports torrents and has no bandwidth limits. This means that browsing and download speeds will always be very high compared to competing services that do not have these characteristics.
As anticipated in the paragraph “The best VPNs for Android 2024,” Express VPN, with the latest update, has added new features, all of which are also available for the Android app: hidden invasive advertisements and blocking access to explicit content.
Finally, it should not be forgotten that it will be possible to connect a maximum of 8 devices simultaneously (this is also new, compared to the 5 previously foreseen).
Many consider it the best smartphone option because the Android app (available on the Play Store) is simple and intuitive. It can unblock all the main streaming platforms for mobile devices, is very fast on local and international networks, and has an extremely effective kill switch.
The annual plan of this virtual private network costs €6.29 per month, with a 30-day “Satisfaction Guarantee” clause.
We are almost at the end of this roundup of the best VPNs for Android, which cannot end without mentioning Private Internet Access, also called PIA.
This virtual private network is much less known than the others but equally valid. Its network consists of 3,386 servers in 42 countries. The managers apply a strict no-log policy, and they, therefore, undertake not to record and store users’ browsing data. There is AES 256-bit encryption, which protects your privacy from bad guys.
Browsing speed, on the other hand, is average, with a loss of around 30% compared to a connection without a VPN.
With private Internet access, streaming services that are not normally available in our country are easily accessible, even if this is not the service’s main function.
As for the Android app, there is a recent update worth mentioning: it was subjected to a security audit directly by Google, passing it brilliantly. As evidence, you can see a badge near the PIA app, which shows that it has passed Google’s MASA security audit. The MASA standard proposes a set of stringent security requirements for mobile app security. These concern:
This Android VPN also offers subscription plans starting from €1.85 per month for the two-year plan, which includes four months free.
IPVanish is a reliable and well-known VPN for Android worldwide, having satisfied millions of users over the years.
Starting in 2012 with just 30 servers, IPVanish has more than 2,200, distributed in approximately 75 countries. It is a truly perfect tool if your primary concerns are security and anonymity while browsing. AES 256-bit encryption is used, accompanied by a strict no-log policy and support for the OpenVPN and WireGuard standards. IKEv2, IPSec, and L2TP are all also available on Android. You can also access streaming services from other countries.
This Android VPN costs €2.01 per month with its two-year plan (with an extra three months free). The guide is at this link for further information.
The choice of the best Android VPN, but not only for your devices, must be made considering various aspects that evaluate its effectiveness and reliability. First, it is crucial to establish the app’s ease of use and design. An intuitive and visually pleasing interface makes the user experience more pleasant and simple, especially for those who use such a service for the first time. Another crucial aspect is the consistency of functionality between the desktop and mobile versions. It is important that the VPN offers the same level of protection and options across all platforms, thus ensuring consistent security on both your PC and smartphone.
The presence of independent audits is a good element to consider because external controls attest to the safety and reliability of the service, confirming that the promises of privacy and security are kept. Also worth mentioning is the app’s IOxT certification, a further quality indicator. This standard evaluates several essential security criteria, such as the absence of universal passwords, the use of secure interfaces, and the use of proven encryption. These criteria ensure that the Android VPN not only protects your data but does so effectively and reliably.
You can also consider integrating an antivirus program into the package. This adds an extra layer of protection against malware and other online threats. For mobile users, it is also useful to explore the presence of specific promotions or exclusive features for Android. These may include discounts, attractive pricing plans, or features that maximize the Android operating system.
Usually, all providers offer a free trial period, allowing you to try the service and decide whether to purchase a subscription. Even those presented in this guide follow this logic. However, if you are looking for a truly free VPN for Android, other services should be considered. The first thing to know is that free virtual private networks offer limited services compared to subscription ones, such as the monthly bandwidth available.
This makes free Android VPNs perfect for occasional use but less suitable for downloading large files or streaming. In other words, they are “lighter” versions of the paid ones.
It must be specified that free VPNs often do not guarantee the same security and rigidity on privacy policies, it is always a good idea to read all the conditions to avoid discovering that your data can be used for other purposes.
If you think that typical usage does not differ much from what has been said, then you can try these services:
At first glance, configuring a VPN on Android might seem difficult, especially for beginners. But in reality, this is not the case. Most providers now offer an Android application for their service, and integration within the operating system has been significantly simplified compared to the past.
After downloading the application and registering, upon first launch, you will be asked to permit the service to set up a VPN connection. Just press the “OK” button and you’re done. We recommend reading our dedicated guide if you also want to know how to install a VPN on other devices.
Almost all services offer servers dedicated to streaming and allow access to the entertainment giant’s foreign catalog. To establish which VPN is the best for Netflix on Android, you need to check the stability of the connection and the network speed. These are essential conditions to avoid buffering, which would ruin the user experience.
From this point of view, an excellent solution could be ExpressVPN, with which you can access the catalog of 19 countries (including the USA, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, France, Japan and Germany) while always maintaining excellent speed and allowing streaming in full HD or 4K. This virtual network can access Netflix on all tested operating systems, including Android.
For further information, see the guide to the best VPNs for Netflix.
Smart TVs are now widely used in our country, too. These devices allow users to access a wide range of features that, until recently, were reserved only for smartphones and tablets. Furthermore, Android TV, Google’s television operating system, is experiencing strong growth. If it was previously only available on high-end TVs, now it is easy to find it even on low-cost products.
Android TV integrates the Play Store, which makes it very easy to download your preferred VPN service. Once the download is complete, open the application, log in if necessary, and grant permission to create a virtual private network.
Among the best VPNs for Android TV, we mention ExpressVPN and CyberGhost. With its mass of servers distributed worldwide, the first is ideal for viewing many free TV channels and the catalogs of streaming platforms. The Android TV app can be installed on any smart TV, from Samsung to LG and many other brands. Another peculiar feature of ExpressVPN is its high speed, which allows you to watch FHD and 4K content without problems. The same goes for CyberGhost, which can unlock content from major streaming platforms and play it at high speeds.
In most countries, using a VPN is not illegal, and very few nations have declared the practice partially or outlawed. These include China, Russia, the United Arab Emirates, Iraq, Turkey, Belarus, Oman, and Iran. In America and Europe, the use of VPNs is not restricted.
The type of use it makes could create problems. Downloading files protected by copyright law, for example, is a crime. Likewise, sometimes, bypassing geoblocking is frowned upon by service providers, who may limit or delete accounts. Either way, a VPN is legal unless used to break other laws.
We can conclude that the importance of using a VPN on Android cannot be stressed enough. In a world where online privacy is increasingly threatened and data security is a constant concern, such a service provides essential protection.
Protecting yourself is increasingly important considering how often we rely on mobile devices to manage sensitive information such as banking details, private communications and personal data.
In our guide to the best Android VPNs 2024, we’ve explored various excellent options that offer security, privacy, and browsing freedom. Choosing the right virtual private network requires considering several fundamental aspects, such as ease of use and the service’s ability to provide a whole series of features, such as unblocking streaming platforms. However, it is always good to consider what specific needs you are looking for, as not all users have the same expectations.
Absolutely, yes, but you need to turn to reliable and efficient providers with years of experience in the sector.
Various companies offer services of this type in the VPN market, but only a few truly deserve and provide a secure virtual private network service.
What are the criteria to take into consideration in terms of security?
When can a VPN be considered safe? Firstly, you need to understand what level of encryption the service you are considering purchasing offers: if it is AES 256-bit, you are in a bind.
The second element to consider is the presence of the kill switch. This feature allows you to interrupt the Internet connection when the VPN stops working, all completely automatically. This guarantees the constant protection of your home network and data: the VPN might be deactivated or stop working without the user realizing it. And it is precisely in this situation that we expose ourselves to cyber attacks.
This problem can be circumvented by activating the kill switch. Some additional features should also be considered, which, if present, make the VPN even more secure. These include a double data encryption system, an anti-malware and phishing program, protection from malicious advertising, and P2P support.
Also worth mentioning are the standard OpenVPN, IKEv2 and Wireguard protocols and private servers, which offer maximum security.
The answer is that there are free and paid VPNs, so yes, it is possible to turn to completely free services.
However, these are few: a private virtual network costs in terms of infrastructure, and obviously, the provider who makes it available must return the investment (and, obviously, also earn from it).
For this reason, free VPNs offered online often hide various defects, such as poor connection speed, low level of security, and few servers to choose from.
We advise focusing on services that require a monthly or annual fee to ensure maximum security and transparency when using them on an Android device.
Providers that offer paid VPNs usually offer a free trial period or a "money-back" guarantee. Both solutions allow you to try the service for a certain period, after which you can interrupt the service and get your money back.
There are free VPNs that can perform essential tasks within the limits of the case. The most reliable for Android are ProtonVPN, TunnelBear, Windscribe, Hide.me VPN, and Hotspot Shield. They all provide a "light" version of the paid service.
You can't expect great features and high-level performance from these, but they represent a good solution if you don't need a top service.
To find out more, see also the in-depth analysis of free VPNs.
When choosing a VPN for Android, consider the security features (like encryption methods), privacy policies, server locations, connection speeds, and ease of use. Checking reviews and ratings in the Google Play Store can also provide insights into user experiences.
Many VPN providers allow you to use one subscription on multiple devices simultaneously. This number can vary, so check the provider’s terms to see how many devices are supported simultaneously.
Using a VPN can affect battery life because it keeps the device connected to a remote server and encrypts data continuously, which requires additional power. However, the impact on battery life varies depending on the VPN application and configuration.
The benefits of using a VPN on Android include securing your internet connection on public Wi-Fi, hiding your IP address, accessing geo-restricted content, and maintaining online privacy from ISPs and websites.