The best iPad VPN 2024

Although Apple devices have earned a reputation for rock-solid privacy and security, your iPad isn't totally immune to digital threats. Luckily, with a Virtual Private Network (VPN) you can safeguard all of your sensitive data and prevent snooping. VPNs encrypt your internet connection, routing it through a secure server, and masking your IP address—allowing you to access content otherwise unavailable in your location.

I've reviewed dozens of VPNs over a three-year span, meticulously cataloging their features and unblocking power. Some VPNs don't make the cut, seeing as they lack all-important security tools, but the best VPNs deliver on the promises, with tough encryption and reliable apps for all devices (including your iPad).

To help you pick out a provider, I've compared the features, speed, streaming compatibility, and price of today's top contenders, and compiled this list of the best VPNs for iPad users.

Top three best iPad VPNs at glance

1. ExpressVPN: the #1 best iPad VPN

1. <a href="https://go.expressvpn.com/c/4550836/1330033/16063?subId1=hawk-custom-tracking&sharedId=hawk&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.expressvpn.com%2Foffer%2Ftechradar-deal" data-link-merchant="expressvpn.com"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">ExpressVPN: the #1 best iPad VPN
ExpressVPN tops my list with an incredibly easy-to-use app that works like a charm on iPads (and other devices). It's wickedly fast, unblocks a ton of streaming sites, and only takes a minute to get set up.

Although it's pretty pricey, you'll get an extra 3 months free when you sign up for a 12-month plan. Plus, you'll be covered by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

2. NordVPN: an iPad VPN that's hot on security

2. <a href="http://go.nordvpn.net/aff_c?offer_id=564&url_id=10992&aff_id=3013&aff_click_id=hawk-custom-tracking&aff_sub2=hawk-article-url" data-link-merchant="go.nordvpn.net"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">NordVPN: an iPad VPN that's hot on security
NordVPN is the total package, with a ton of handy security tools that block ads, malware, and other digital nasties. Plus, you'll have access to a long list of streaming platforms. NordVPN is the fastest VPN I've tested in a long time, too, so you can count on clear HD content.

Try NordVPN for yourself, risk-free, with a handy 30-day money-back guarantee.

3. Surfshark: inexpensive high-quality iPad VPN

3. <a href="http://get.surfshark.net/aff_c?offer_id=61&aff_id=1691&aff_click_id=hawk-custom-tracking&aff_sub2=hawk-article-url" data-link-merchant="get.surfshark.net"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Surfshark: inexpensive high-quality iPad VPN
Surfshark is an affordable powerhouse that packs a ton of functionality into miniscule prices. Its sleek app design and handy features are intuitive to use on iPad, and super-fast speeds are ideal for streaming Netflix at home or on the go.

Pick up a Surfshark plan and you'll get unlimited simultaneous connections, too, and a 30-day money-back guarantee you can use to take the provider for a test-drive.

Recent updates

We periodically review the content of our buying guide to ensure all information is up-to-date and reflects the changing VPN industry and global need for digital privacy. During the latest round of updates, we added details of our last round of VPN deep testing and new releases but the on-page ranking remained unchanged.

The best iPad VPNs for 2024:

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

See how our top picks VPN for iPad compare in the following analysis and reviews as we discuss reasons to subscribe, reasons to avoid, our test results, what we liked most about each provider, and how they compare with the competition.

The best iPad VPN overall

ExpressVPN is the best iPad VPNTechRadar Editor's Choice award logo

(Image credit: ExpressVPN)

1. ExpressVPN

The best iPad VPN on the App Store

Dedicated iPad app: Yes | Also available for: Windows, Mac, Android, Linux | Maximum devices: 8 | Integrated kill switch: Yes | App Store review: 4.5

Easy to use
3,000+ servers across 105 countries
Unblocks all streaming services
Super helpful 24/7 live chat support
No dedicated IPs
No free trial
Higher price than competitors
Subscribe if:

✔️ You move between different networks while on the go: ExpressVPN seamlessly switches between networks without interrupting the VPN connection.
✔️ You value accessing geo-restricted content: ExpressVPN's consistent and reliable unblocking capabilities make it an ideal choice.
✔️ If you use split tunneling: it routes necessary VPN traffic while sending other traffic directly to the internet, improving internet speed for streaming, and gaming.

Don't subscribe if:

❌ Price is a significant factor for you: ExpressVPN is priced higher compared to some other VPN providers.
You require many simultaneous connections: Up to 8 devices can be connected at the same time, while PIA and Surfshark offer unlimited devices allowance.
You require specialized VPN features: We recommend Nord for options that are not offered by ExpressVPN. 

Bottom line⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

🔒 ExpressVPN is an excellent choice for iPad users who prioritize reliable performance, privacy and security, a vast server network, and user-friendly applications. 

According to our testing, ExpressVPN is the best overall VPN right now. Even better as its latest feature-packed update added new ad and adult-site blockers while extending both its server network (3,000+ servers covering from 94 to 105 countries) and multi-devices policy from five to eight simultaneous connections with just one subscription.  

Other advanced security features include its Network Lock feature (commonly known as a kill switch) to prevent any data leaks when the connection drops, web tracker and malware blocker (Threat Manager), DNS leak protection and split tunneling. Among its VPN protocol offering, there's also its WireGuard-inspired Lightway—developed completely in-house—which now include post-quantum protections

► Try ExpressVPN with a 30-day money-back guarantee. 

Streaming enthusiasts will also appreciate ExpressVPN's ability to unblock all popular streaming platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer and Hulu on iPad. We managed to unlock everything we tried last time we checked.

Despite not reaching the top of our list in the speed test last time we checked, we actually experienced faster top connection speeds, passing from 560 to 750Mbps when using Lightway. That would be more than enough to enjoy seamless streaming or VoIP experiences on your iPad—no matter where you're in the world.

We also praise the provider's commitment to transparency, counting 11 independent audits in 2022 alone. Plus, we love the provider's intuitive apps as they are really easy-to-use, too. ExpressVPN is compatible with iOS devices running iOS 10 or later versions, as well as a wide range of devices including even its own router with built-in VPN Aircove.

The only real downside here is the price. However, while Surfshark is a cheaper alternative, ExpressVPN's high price reflects its premium service with super helpful 24/7 live chat support and extensive server network, which also helps trump all other competitors in unblocking streaming services. Try it out yourself with its 30-day money-back guarantee to enjoy a special offer available for TechRadar's readers only...

Get the best iPad VPN with 3 months FREE

<a href="https://go.expressvpn.com/c/4550836/1330033/16063?subId1=hawk-custom-tracking&sharedId=hawk&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.expressvpn.com%2Foffer%2Ftechradar-deal" data-link-merchant="expressvpn.com"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Get the best iPad VPN with 3 months FREE
You can probably tell by now that we really rate the ExpressVPN app. The good news is that TechRadar readers can get a little perk when they sign up, too. ExpressVPN has agreed to give readers three months extra free when they sign up, as well as the usual 30 day money back guarantee.

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ExpressVPN test results:
AttributesNotesRating
DesignA clean and simple design that gives you everything you need, exactly when you need it⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useIntuitive apps with auto-connect functionality make life easier⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceFast enough for anything you could throw at it, but slower than NordVPN and Surfshark⭐⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingEffortlessly gives you access to content around the world⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyExpress offers military-grade protection for total peace of mind⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer supportAlways available, friendly, and helpful⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PriceMore expensive than leading competitors⭐⭐⭐

The best iPad VPN with antivirus

NordVPN on iPad

(Image credit: NordVPN)

2. NordVPN

Most feature-rich VPN for iPad

Dedicated iPad app: Yes | Also available for: Windows, Mac, Android, Linux | Maximum devices: 6 | Integrated kill switch: Yes | App Store review: 4.6

Among the fastest VPNs we’ve tested
Great for streaming
Easy-to-use app
Advanced features
Other VPNs have better mobile apps
AutoConnect glitches in the app
Basic browser extensions
Subscribe if:

✔️ You prioritize anonymity: NordVPN's unique features like Double VPN and Onion Over VPN provide additional layers of encryption and anonymity.
✔️ You're a streaming enthusiast: NordVPN works reliably with popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video.
✔️ You appreciate dedicated IP option: either you're a business or individual, you can enjoy the perks of a fixed IP with the security of a VPN for an extra tiny fee

Don't subscribe if:

❌ You're looking for affordable pricing for short-term subscriptions: NordVPN's pricing structure tends to offer better value for longer-term subscriptions.
If you rely heavily on the AutoConnect feature: users report that it can fail to autoconnect to VPN servers and not effectively hide your IP address.
❌ You use port forwarding: it allows for optimized connections, faster downloads and improved overall torrenting performance, which Express VPN offers.

Bottom line ⭐⭐⭐⭐

🔒 NordVPN has a great package of advanced features and strong security, making it a reliable choice for users seeking privacy.

The biggest VPN name out there, NordVPN boasts over 5,800 servers across 60 countries, great unblocking capabilities and a set of advanced security features which make it perfect for users whose anonymity is paramount.

Among our favorites, there are double kill switches, DNS leak protection, 256-bit encryption, Onion over VPN to reroute traffic via both the VPN server and the Tor network, and a Double VPN option so that all your internet traffic will be encrypted not once, but twice. Its new addition Meshnet is then ideal for those seeking to secure their workload across multiple devices—even better as it's now free of charge for all.

Try NordVPN with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Privacy-conscious users will also appreciate NordVPN's verified no-logs policy, audited by trusted firms like PwC. The provider even goes the extra mile to protect you from online threats with its Threat Protection feature, including malware scanning and Dark Web monitoring.

NordVPN performs well as a streaming VPN, virtually unblocking any streaming platforms out there. It's then the perfect solution if you wish to keep up with all your favorite TV series and sport matches when you travel. Plus, NordVPN's P2P support ensures that you can safely torrent directly from your iPad. 

Speed is another area where NordVPN brilliantly delivers. We experienced some improved connection speeds reaching 950+Mbps with its WireGuard-based NordLynx protocol last time we checked, placing itself among the fastest VPN services on the market right now.

As a slight downside, you can protect only up to 6 devices simultaneously with a single NordVPN account—other providers offer way more generous devices allowance. Yet, that's something it can be partially addressed with its new Meshnet feature.

You can use its user-friendly apps for iPads on iOS 13.0 or later, as well as across all the main operating systems. However, we still aren't fans of its map-based interface on smaller screens and its browser extensions are still a bit basic. Linux users might find Nord's installation process a bit daunting, too.

You can rely on NordVPN for prompt assistance whenever you need it with customer support available 24/7 through live chat and email. Again, you have a 30-day money-back guarantee to decide for yourself if it's the right service for you totally risk-free.

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NordVPN test results:
AttributesNotesRating
DesignA fun design that can be a little busy for some people⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useEverything is easy to find, but the map interface can be off-putting, and there isn't much attention to detail⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceThe fastest VPN in our latest round of tests⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingPerfect for Netflix and other streaming sites⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyEvery bit as strong as ExpressVPN⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer supportFriendly, supportive and professional⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PriceFantastic value for money⭐⭐⭐⭐

The best cheap iPad VPN service

(Image credit: Future)

3. Surfshark

Most wallet-friendly VPN for iPad

Dedicated iPad app: Yes | Also available for: Windows, Mac, Android, Linux | Maximum devices: Unlimited | Integrated kill switch: Yes | App Store review: 4.8

Very cheap
Strong privacy features
Unlimited connections
Top WireGuard speeds
Kill switch issues in extreme situations
Many virtual VPN locations 
Below average OpenVPN speeds 
Subscribe if:

✔️ You value affordability: Surfshark is a great cost-effective VPN solution that doesn't compromise on features and performance.
✔️ You prioritize privacy and security: Surfshark provides strong encryption, a strict no-logs policy and features like MultiHop and CleanWeb.
✔️ You need to protect your whole household:  Surfshark offers unlimited device connections with just one subscription.

Don't subscribe if:

❌ You require consistently fast server performance at all times: we recommend Express VPN as it offers the most stable connection.
You need advanced customization options: For specific features that are not available in Surfshark, we advise looking into Nord VPN.
May prompt captchas when browsing on mobile: many search engine entries involve having to complete a captcha before you can continue, presumably because the shared IP address was flagged for some reason.

Bottom line⭐⭐⭐⭐

🔒 Surfshark is a solid choice for iPad users looking for a cheap, reliable and privacy-focused VPN to secure as many devices as you need at the same time.

If you’re looking for an easy-to-use, feature-packed VPN app for your iPad, you don’t need to break the bank. Surfshark happens to be the best cheap VPN for iPad, with a premium subscription for less than $2.50 per month.

However, when it comes to security, Surfshark leaves no stone unturned. Its features include strict no-log policy, DNS leak protection, split tunneling for easy access to areas outside the VPN and an AES-256 encryption with double-hop for extra safety. An integrated kill switch ensures that all traffic ceases if your VPN connection is unexpectedly lost. It is worth noting that we experienced some issues here, but only on Windows and in extreme situations.

Try Surfshark with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Surfshark also offers a feature called CleanWeb, which blocks ads, malware, and phishing attempts, providing you with a clean and safe browsing experience. Say goodbye to annoying pop-ups and potential threats—Surfshark has your back, ensuring a smooth and secure online journey. Plus, An IP rotator feature included with its new Nexus technology will make it even more difficult to track your online activities.

A network of 3,200+ servers in 100+ countries enables iPad users to easily stream Netflix US, BBC iPlayer, or other popular platforms, enjoying HD video streaming on their iPad. An obfuscation option—here called Camouflage mode—will also boost its unblocking reliability. Plus, its No Borders feature will automatically connect you to the servers performing the best under network restrictions. Users can now get a Dedicated IP, too, for an extra monthly fee. 

Whether you're watching your favorite TV shows, movies, or sports events, Surfshark ensures a seamless streaming experience on your iPad. It does that at great speed, too. However, it's worth noting that while Shurfshark confirmed itself to sit among the top fastest VPNs when connected to WireGuard, its speeds were still below average with OpenVPN. But that's unlikely to be a huge factor for most users.

On another negative note, Surfshark's iOS app sometimes has interference issues with other apps like anti-virus software, which need to be disabled for Surfshark to work. Nonetheless its customer support is available 24/7 to assist you through live chat and email whenever you need.

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Surfshark test results:
AttributesNotesRating
DesignEasy to use and elegant⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useConnecting only takes a few clicks—ideal for newbiesideal for newbe⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceOne of the fastest providers we tested⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingUnblocks virtually everything you'll need⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyNot a comprehensive antivirus or ad-blocking solution, and some kill switch ossues⭐⭐⭐
Customer supportBrowsing support articles isn't as intuitive as I'd like⭐⭐⭐⭐
PriceReal value for money⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The best free iPad VPN

(Image credit: Hide.Me)

4.

Powerful and feature-packed iOS VPN

Dedicated iPad app: Yes | Also available for: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, Amazon Fire TV, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Router | Maximum devices: 10 | Integrated kill switch: Yes | App Store review: 4.4

Free plan available
Supports up to 10 devices
Clean interface for iOS
Excellent speeds
Relatively poor support website 
Kill switch issues (on Windows)
No recent security audit 
Subscribe if:

✔️ You need higher customization: Hide.me boasts  advanced configuration options you won’t find anywhere else.
✔️ You want to protect up to 10 devices: Hide.me covers 1 device on the Free plan, and up to 10 on the Premium plan.
✔️ You want a Free plan: Hide.me VPN offers a free version with a 10 GB monthly data cap, limited server locations, and one device allowed.

Don't subscribe if:

❌ You want to stream using a Free plan: you can stream Netflix, but other streaming services are available on their Premium plan.
You need the Smart DNS feature:  For a superior streaming experience on home devices, ExpressVPN is a recommended choice.
❌ You're a VPN newbie: The many customization options might be intimidating if you're unfamiliar with VPNs.

Bottom line⭐⭐⭐

🔒 Hide.me is a solid choice for experienced iPad VPN users and whoever else looking for a secure free VPN app.

A highly customizable service, Hide.me is the perfect choice for advanced users who are looking for a more tailored VPN experience. Having said that, its iOS app still has an intuitive interface easily to navigate even for newcomers.

Alongside some premium plans, Hide.me also comes with a free VPN with a 10GB data allowance and P2P support. For streaming unlocking capabilities and multiple-device policy you'll need to upgrade to a paid subscription, though. Nonetheless, Hide.me Free VPN is a good starting point to start familiarize yourself with the world of VPNs without investing any money.

Try Hide.me with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Among its advanced security features, there is MultiHop VPN which enables you to connect to one location and exit from another. This makes it even more difficult for anyone to trace back and identify you. 

Hide.me is compatible with various iPad models, from iPadOS 12.0 or later, with its iOS apps outperforming some of the Windows competition when it comes to settings. There's support for IKEv2, OpenVPN UDP, OpenVPN TCP and WireGuard, for instance. The app can automatically connect when you use Wi-Fi or mobile networks, while letting you choose a custom DNS server. You even get to control whether the tunnel uses IPv4 or IPv6.

Despite boasting a slightly smaller server networks than previous competitors, the provider includes around 2,100 servers across 85 different locations and 6 continents. Like for its desktop applications, the iOS app's location picker allows you to choose among your favorites servers, a streaming and multihop lists, and more customization options. 

Hide.me's premium service was also great at streaming unlocking last time we checked, granting us access to foreign libraries on Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+,   BBC iPlayer, ITV, C4 and 9Now. It did so at awesome speeds, too, matching NordVPN and Surfshark's performances on this front.

The website lacks some customer support we found for other providers, but it still delivers good human support so that you'll be able to address any issue and quibbles at ease. We experienced some kill switch issues, but on its Windows VPN apps only. Besides, we would like to see a new security audit soon as its latest dates back 2015.

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Hide.me test results
FeatureCommentsRating
DesignA huge amount of customizability⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useBeginners might be overwhelmed by the complexity⭐⭐
PerformanceOne of the quickest providers on the block⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingSlightly inconsistent, but otherwise impressive⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyPlenty of tools and good encryption, but some kill switch hiccups⭐⭐⭐
Customer supportLive chat support is useful and backed up with articles⭐⭐⭐⭐
PriceLonger plans are a bargain⭐⭐⭐⭐

Other VPNs I've tested and recommend

(Image credit: Private Internet Access)

5. Private Internet Access (PIA)

VPN to protect your iPad and unlimited other devices

Dedicated iPad app: Yes | Also available for: Windows, Mac, Android, Linux | Maximum devices: 10 | Integrated kill switch: Yes | App Store review: 4.6

Integrates well with other Apple devices
Unlimited devices supported
Built-in AdBlock
Open-source apps
Customer support doesn't always respond promptly
Limited streaming options
Users report battery drainage
Subscribe if:

✔️ Apple integration is important to you: PIA integrates with all other Apple devices, providing a highly intuitive user experience.
✔️ Simultaneous device protection matters to you: PIA allows you to connect to unlimited multiple devices.
✔️ You appreciate affordability: alongside Surfshark, PIA is small in price but big in security and performance.

Don't subscribe if:

❌ Advanced streaming access is essential: while PIA provides access to streaming platforms, it is limited compared to other VPN providers.
Extensive customer support is a priority: if you prefer live chat or phone support, you can look into Express or Nord.
Battery consumption is a concern: users reported high battery consumption, which can have a significant impact on the overall battery life of your iPad.

Bottom line⭐⭐⭐

🔒 Private Internet Access (PIA) is a feature-rich VPN option for iPad users. If you prioritize privacy and adding unlimited devices, choose PIA for protecting your online activities.

Another highly customizable VPN software, Private Internet Access (PIA) offers a comprehensive package with over 35,000 servers spread across 84+ countries. Despite its big network and feature list, PIA's pricing still remains one of the most affordable together with Surfshark.

Overall, users can enjoy safe and reliable connections for browsing, streaming, and torrenting thanks to many security options, advanced features and a strict no-logs policy.

▶ Try Private Internet Access on unlimited devices.

Security features include AES-256 encryption, kill switch, Smart DNS, P2P across all its servers, and MACE (its built-in ad, tracker, and malware blocker) which keeps intrusive ads and malicious websites at bay.

In a major commitment to transparency, all PIA's apps are open-source. This means that anyone can independently verify the security and privacy measures implemented by the software provider. Plus, you can now connect to its VPN on unlimited devices simultaneously, across multiple platforms. 

While PIA is a reliable VPN, Express VPN performs better at unblocking streaming services than PIA, giving you access to a wider range of movies and shows. Having said that, we managed to successfully access all streaming platforms we tried last we checked. This might be as the provider recently added a SmartDNS feature to improve its unlocking capabilities.

If you have been using PIA on Android, you'll notice not much has changed as its iOS app boasts the same stylish interface, a capable location picker with server latencies and a Favorites system, and an array of customization options to make the console look exactly as you'd like. It offers some useful iOS-specific features, too, including optional support for Siri shortcuts to connect or disconnect the VPN, and a Safari-dedicated content blocker.

In terms of speed, PIA is still way far to reach the fastest VPN services, though. Its peaks were quite disappointing this time, dropping 510 to 360Mbps when using WireGuard. We are happy, though, to see that the provider is showing commitment in transparency with an independently audited no-logging policy under its belts, and one on its security infrastructure coming soon.  

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Private Internet Access test results:
AttributesNotesRating
DesignLots of customization, but could do with some attention to detail⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useNot the best for beginners, but great for advanced users⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceGood speeds, but generally average compared to industry leaders⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingDedicated streaming servers and an enormous global network help you unblock anything and everything⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyThe latest and greatest in VPN tech, and a proven no-logging policy⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer supportA mass of knowledge online and expert support on-hand at all times⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PriceBudget-friendly and offering plenty of value for money⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

How to choose the best iPad VPNs

Despite the specifics will change according to your needs, there are some general characteristics we recommend to lookout for when choosing a reliable iPad VPN. It goes without saying that you should make sure your chosen provider offers an iOS/iPadOS app.

As a rule of thumb, what you want from your iPad VPN is strong encryption, different protocols to choose from (such as WireGuard, OpenVPN or IKEv2) and a comprehensive privacy policy telling you exactly how the provider intends to protect your personal information. We especially praise, here, the services which regularly undergo independent audits to back up their claims.

Speed is another important aspect for any kind of software, especially if you're thinking of using your VPN for streaming or gaming. Look then at performance and server network—the closer to your real location are more likely to deliver faster speeds, in fact. Special features like split tunneling and ad-blockers can also improve browsing speeds, boost privacy and reduce annoying advertisements.

Make sure your VPN for iPad has a good track record in unblocking geo-restrictions, too, if bypassing online censorships or accessing foreign streaming libraries is your main use case. A quick live chat support is a good extra, too, especially for those new to the VPN world. Pay attention to VPN's simultaneous connection limit, meaning how many devices you can connect to the VPN under a single subscription. 

Best iPad VPN: FAQ

iPad Air 5

(Image credit: Apple)

How do I set up an iPad VPN?

Once you’ve decided on a provider, you might be wondering how you download and set up the VPN service on your iPad. Firstly, you’ll need to download the official iOS app.

Most VPN services will be available to download from the App Store, but most companies also provide download links under “apps" sections on their websites. The good thing about going through the providers' websites is that you'll also usually be privy to claiming special discounts that aren't available on the App Store.

When your chosen VPN service has downloaded onto your iPad, you’ll then need to open it and undergo a short setup process. If you’re ever stuck, you can always use the live chat offered by your provider.

For more information and a step-by-step guide, check out our advice on how to download, set up and install a VPN on iPhone—everything there is just as relevant to iPads.

Does an iPad have a built-in VPN?

Currently no Apple devices have a built-in VPN. However, they do offer excellent support for VPN configuration, whether you wish to manually install, or take the more hands-off, client driven approach.

While the announcement of Private Relay may sound like the properties of a VPN, it does not offer all the bells and whistles of an iPad VPN. Private Relay—which will come as a part of a Cloud+ account feature—withholds your IP address, though it only does this when using Safari and apps which HTTP rather than HTTPS, making it an insecure connection. 

If you choose to use a browser on your iPad that isn't Safari, or shop via specific retail apps, for instance, you could still be exposed. What's more, you lose out on a number of other features a full VPN can offer you, including bypassing geo-restrictions, as well as security features like a kill switch, which will notify you when you've lost connection and could be vulnerable.

A step in the right direction in terms of added security from Apple, Private Relay certainly isn't a replacement for a full-fat VPN service.

ExpressVPN for iPad

(Image credit: ExpressVPN)

What is the best iPad VPN?

At the present time, ExpressVPN gets our vote as the best iPad VPN you can download. It's not too hard to see why, either. It's ridiculously easy to set up and function, can connect to over 3,000 servers across 90+ countries worldwide, unblocks a cavalcade of geo-restricted sites and streaming services, and offers genuinely useful 24/7 live chat support if you're ever struggling. In short...it ticks all the boxes!

Should I get a free iPad VPN?

If you’re looking for an app and want to save money, you might be tempted to download a free VPN on your iPad.

Sadly, free VPNs aren’t that great. They often impose data and speed caps, which can make internet browsing and streaming feel very laggy. Free VPNs services may also store your data and potentially sell it to third parties so that they can make money. And it’s not unknown for free VPN apps to include advertisements, which can have a major impact on overall performance.

To get the best possible VPN experience on your iPad, you’ll need a premium subscription. Luckily, providers like Surfshark are actually pretty cheap. And, if you are still up for a freebie despite the limitations, we recommend downloading Hide.me Free VPN.

Disclaimer

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example: 1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service). 2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad. We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

Nicholas Fearn is a freelance technology journalist and copywriter from the Welsh valleys. His work has appeared in publications such as the FT, the Independent, the Daily Telegraph, The Next Web, T3, Android Central, Computer Weekly, and many others. He also happens to be a diehard Mariah Carey fan!

With contributions from