With Android phones becoming ever more popular, the best Android VPNs are a more important tool than ever. Whether you're looking to secure your mobile activity, stream home-favorites while on the go, or access geo-restricted websites, an Android VPN serves as a one-stop solution for all your mobile security needs.
There are dozens of services on the market, however, which makes narrowing down your search a potential headache. So, to help you out, the TechRadar team spends hundreds of hours every year putting the best VPNs to the test – and that includes investigating their Android offerings.
Keep reading to see which VPNs stand out in a hugely competitive field – and what makes them such show-stealers.
The three best Android VPNs in 2025
Need a quick answer? Here's a quick rundown of our top three picks to secure your Android device.
The best Android VPN for 2025:
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See how our top Android VPN picks compare as we discuss reasons to subscribe, reasons to avoid, test results, what we liked most about each provider, and how each service compares with the competition.
The best VPN overall
NordVPN is one of the biggest and best-known VPNs on the block – and there's a good reason for it. The VPN has scored more than 50 million downloads and a top Google Play rating and works like a charm on Android.
NordVPN's subscriptions come jam-packed with tools – think dedicated IPs, the proprietary NordLynx protocol, and a malware shield. You're also covered by a frequently audited no-logs policy that ensures there are no identifiable logs to tie you to your activity.
NordVPN recently aced an independent audit carried out by Cure53, too – with no critical issues reported. It's the kind of transparency I love to see from today's top contenders, andit goes a long way to proving that the service really does care about your digital privacy.
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The Meshnet tool is another standout – especially as it's now free for everyone, regardless of whether they're a NordVPN customer or not. Meshnet allows users to create their own secure networks and encrypt up to 60 connected devices via the NordVPN secure tunnel.
The NordVPN Android app is easy to download and use. The map view is a neat little novelty, but some folks will prefer using the server list to find and select a digital destination. Navigating around NordVPN's various menus, however, is nice and intuitive, even to total newbies.
Nord's overall strength when it comes to unblocking websites and getting around streaming restrictions is almost unparalleled. It ticks off all the big streaming giants, including Netflix, Disney Plus, Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer, making it a great choice for all the Android streamers out there. Some excellent speeds during our last round of testing also placed the provider among the fastest VPNs on the market with peaks of 950+Mbps with NordLynx.
The app provides a live chat feature for 24/7 customer support, too. This is great, allowing you to iron out any niggles you might be having without even leaving the app itself.
If you prefer to roll up your sleeves and do your own investigating, you're in luck – NordVPN's 30-day money-back guarantee lets you take the service for a test drive in your own time. When you're ready to subscribe, remember that you'll bag the best bargain by picking a multi-year subscription.
The best VPN for beginners
There are so many things to like about ExpressVPN and its Android offering. The dedicated app is extremely user-friendly and straightforward, but also offers a lot of advanced options for folks who want to customize their VPN experience. One of my favorite features is the one-click connect, which lets you secure your device (and all your sensitive info) with one tap of a power button.
There are a huge amount of servers to choose from, too, and they're dotted across 105 countries. You can scroll through the server list to pick out a specific location, add servers to a handy favorites system, or let ExpressVPN recommend servers based on speed.
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On the subject of speed, ExpressVPN is no slouch. The provider clocked in at 410 Mbps during my most recent round of testing. While that's slower than the likes of NordVPN and Surfshark, it is still more than 30 times what you need to enjoy HD and 4K streaming, smooth torrenting, and online gaming. Plus, the service is more than capable of unblocking your favorite streaming platforms (like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime).
Few providers can match ExpressVPN on a privacy level, too, thanks to AES-256 encryption that'll keep your sensitive information out of the hands of third-party snoops. Users can check out the WireGuard protocol or ExpressVPN's very own proprietary creation, Lightway, which recently passed a second audit and added post-quantum protection. ExpressVPN's browser extension aced another third-party audit, too, which is good news for folks who plan to use the service on their mobile device and desktops.
The good thing is that in case you run into any difficulties at all with this VPN – whether that be when you install the ExpressVPN Android app or during use – its website features a wide array of handy content and video guides, as well as 24/7 customer support by live chat.
ExpressVPN isn't certainly the cheapest VPN out there, or the one for you if you wish to protect all your household – it recently expanded its multi-device allowance, though, from five to eight. However, you can always try it 100% risk-free with its 30-day money-back guarantee. Plus, TechRadar's readers can take advantage of an excellent value by signing up for its 12-month plan.
The best cheap Android VPN service
Surfshark is my go-to recommendation for anyone working with a budget - or any bargain-hunters out there. It's the best cheap VPN on the market right now because it packs a ton of functionality into tiny prices. However, the minuscule price tag doesn't mean you're getting a low-quality product – and the same applies to the Android app.
Unlike a lot of other providers, Surfshark barely alters the user interface from desktop to mobile. It means you can easily get security features like the dedicated kill switch, split tunneling, integrated malware blocker, and double-hop for extra safety. The provider has also just introduced a dedicated IP feature for an additional fee.
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But what really sets Shurfshark apart from its competitors is that it includes a GPS spoofing feature, enabling it to return the coordinates of your chosen VPN server. It's actually the only Android VPN app we've seen doing that. Not something everybody will use, but a handy feature if you want to, for example, get a location for fake GPS for Pokémon Go playing (although, even then, it requires some workarounds).
As well as offering the market-standard AES-256 encryption and the aforementioned features, Surfshark also boasts its own private DNS and a recently audited no-logs policy. Its most worrying downside is around its kill switch issues. However, these occur only in extreme situations and on Windows. So, you should be perfectly covered on Android.
In our latest round of testing, Surfshark also proved to be among the strongest providers for unblocking, especially if you're after a Netflix VPN. The provider was able to access Netflix libraries in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and Japan. It'll also easily open the gates to Disney Plus, Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer. It also confirmed itself among the fastest VPNs when connected to WireGuard, reaching peaks of 950Mbps the last time we checked.
If you do need support or spot a bug, then it's easy to raise support tickets right from the app itself. But in our experience, you won't be using that function too much. Surfshark keeps things really straightforward on mobile.
Assuming you'll want to use this VPN on your laptop, TV streaming device, router, and other gadgets as well, you would be happy to know that you can connect unlimited devices with just one subscription.
Other VPNs I've tested and recommend
Proton VPN comes from the same brains behind ProtonMail, the world's biggest encrypted email service, and has carved out a niche in the industry as a real champion of privacy. The Proton VPN apps are all open source and audited – which is awesome transparency right off the bat, ensuring that prospective users can verify the provider's security claims for themselves before committing to a subscription.
For those who enjoy a map interface but want an alternative option to NordVPN, Proton VPN's Android app isn't dissimilar from its desktop counterpart. You'll also find a useful location list and favorite server system.
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In terms of features, Proton VPN's mobile apps boast more than usual, another tick against this provider. You'll find its Quick Connect option, as well as its Secure Core technology, which routes you through multiple servers for better defense against network attacks. On top of that, expect a kill switch, MultiHop VPN function, Netshield (aka, its ad-blocker), and split tunneling.
Proton is one of the most secure VPNs we've ever tested. Swiss privacy laws add an extra layer of protection to your data - which is encrypted by tough AES-256 protocols, too. A recent update saw Proton VPN double down on its commitment to user privacy with a bevy of new features. A Discreet Icon tool lets you switch the Proton VPN icon to something else – which could help you get around physical device inspections like those employed by Myanmar authorities attempting to enforce VPN bans.
Proton VPN is a strong streaming VPN, too. It unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Prime Video, and plenty of the biggest streaming platforms you might want to watch straight from your smartphone. Usefully, Proton has seen its speeds jump back up to among the fastest providers currently available, offering over 950 Mbps using the WireGuard protocol.
One small downside is that live chat support is not 24/7 yet, probably an issue for those new to the world of VPNs. In terms of simultaneous connections, despite not being the best, Proton is nonetheless well-placed with an allowance of 10 devices connected at once.
The provider is also a great option if you're after a secure free VPN. It has even recently improved its network coverage, passing from 29 free servers to more than 100. However, you need to upgrade to its paid plans to enjoy its great streaming service unblocking track record, P2P customized servers, and excellent speeds. Its new family subscriptions might be just the right solution for bigger households.
Another service that keeps improving, we've found Windscribe to have addressed some of the issues that were holding it back in the past. This makes it a fairly new entry in our best Android VPN guide.
If you are used to the Windscribe interface on a Windows browser, you won't find any differences: the distinct background flag, the big On/Off button, details on your new IP, and the preferred protocol.
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In terms of features, all Windscibe apps are crammed with advanced functionality that, perhaps, most users will never make use of. These include its R.O.B.E.R.T. system that blocks IP addresses and domains of your choice on all devices, static IPs option, port forwarding, and split tunneling. A nice addition to Android apps only is its Decoy Mode which helps dissidents avoid detection in extreme situations. We've even tested its tracker and malware-blocking system and found it really effective.
The provider offers only the best in terms of VPN protocols (WireGuard, IKEv2, and OpenVPN) supporting strong AES-256 encryption and stealth technologies to avoid VPN blocks. It doesn't keep any identifying logs and, even though its security infrastructure hasn't been audited yet, its apps are all open-source so anyone can check its code for vulnerabilities. What's more, we couldn't find any trackers on its website or Android apps last time we checked.
Windscribe unlocked almost all the main streaming platforms during our last test. However, it failed to do so with ITV, C4, 9Now, and 10 Play. It also unlocked only the US Netflix catalog. Its connection speeds seriously improved, though, placing itself alongside the likes of Nord and Surfshark among the fastest VPNs thanks to peaks of 950+Mbps when connected to the WireGuard protocol.
Even though it isn't active yet, 24/7 live chat support is on its way. This means that users struggling to work out the many features included in Windscribe Android apps will still need to rely on its website tutorials for a bit longer.
Overall, Windscribe is still a bit behind its competitors in accommodating any type of users, from experts to newcomers. However, it also comes with a powerful and feature-packed free VPN with 10GB of data allowance and unlimited connections included. But remember, you have to upgrade to a paid plan if you want to use its streaming VPN function.
How to choose the best Android VPN
Head to the Play Store on your smartphone and you'll see tons of VPN apps. Beware, though, as many of those are shady free VPNs likely to offer you a poor experience or, in the worst scenario, expose your data with a third-party tracking library – exactly what you are trying to avoid here.
We try and test a ton of services all the time to only select the ones that combine tight security and watertight privacy policies. Some providers have now started verifying their apps with the ioXt Alliance, too, giving even more peace of mind.
In terms of functionality, an Android VPN app should be as user-friendly as possible. Ensure it supports your version of Android, with most going back at least to Pie and usually beyond.
It's also worth noting that while you'll find all the VPN services in our list featured in the Google Play Store, we'd definitely recommend looking into them more closely and signing up directly on their websites to ensure that you get the best possible price.
How we test VPNs
Testing VPNs is tricky. There are lots of variables involved in the process that can influence results – think tracking performance across different locations, different device types, and even protocols. Plus, a VPN's speeds can change throughout the day and over time, which means that one standalone test just won't be enough to get an accurate picture.
With that in mind, we've put together a gauntlet of tests for the Android VPNs we evaluate. With the results in hand, we can pinpoint which VPNs are worth your time and money – and which ones aren't worth the risk.
- Features: first things first, we need to do our homework. This involves visiting the provider site to see what features are available (including any Android-specific tools), the size and scope of the server network, and which VPN protocols the service uses. All of these aspects are used to compare the VPN to its competitors and inform our later tests.
- Privacy and security: we want to ensure that any VPN we recommend has your Android's privacy in mind – which is why we dig into its encryption methods and protocols. We perform a number of proprietary tests here, too, to check that the kill switch and DNS leak protection features are working as they should. This is also where we'll check out any independent security audits. However, if the VPN hasn't invited auditors to comb through its privacy policy, it's a big red flag.
- Performance: to get a clear picture of a VPN's speed, we test it with a variety of devices using a 1 Gbps internet connection. Then, we'll record the connection speeds multiple times throughout the day – and at regular points in the rest of the year. We'll also take note of the VPN's connection times, benchmark DNS queries, and generally get a feel for how the VPN performs during day-to-day use on an Android device.
- Unblocking: today's top VPNs can bypass blocks and unblock in-demand streaming platforms. We'll see if they can access the likes of Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, Hulu, and smaller region-specific services,
- Support: if you need help getting set up or configuring your settings, it's good to know that help is at hand. That's why we'll dig into the VPN's customer support – like live chat and email tickets. We're looking for speedy replies that thoroughly address our concerns and answer our questions. If the provider has a well-organized support site, that's a bonus, too.
Meet our expert
Mike is head-geek and has been our lead tester for years – he's responsible for our speed analysis, stream unblocking tests, and functionality testing. He'll find out if a kill switch won't hold up under stress, or whether or not your IP address is likely to leak out. Mike is always peeking behind the curtain to see how a VPN app is coded to unveil the truth of a VPN's build quality. He also tests VPN apps on Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, Apple TV, Fire stick, and Roku. View author page
Best Android VPN FAQs
What is the best Android VPN?
Right now, the best Android VPN is NordVPN. It offers the best performance of all the VPNs we tested on Android, with a sleek user interface and a wide array of features. Plus, it's one of the cheaper VPNs available, even when you rise up its plans to add more features.
What can I do with an Android VPN?
An Android VPN acts as an excellent first line of defense alongside Android antivirus in protecting yourself when online. The nature of their encrypted tunneling and ability to keep your IP address secret makes them a wonderful way to keep cybercriminals at bay – no more worrying about online banking and shopping while using unfamiliar networks.
But it's their shapeshifting, geo-spoofing abilities that have made the popularity of Android VPNs explode. The fact you can log into a server in another country elsewhere in the world means that you don't have to miss out on the stuff you'd usually stream to your mobile/tablet when abroad on holiday or business.
And they've proved a great way of getting around blocked websites. Where mobiles are concerned, a fantastic example is using WhatsApp in China, as well as other sites and services. The state may have blocked some of the big hitters, but they can't do anything about it when you use your Android VPN app to make it look like you're in another country entirely!
What devices can I use an Android VPN on?
From your Samsung Galaxy S24 to your favorite Android tablets, Android VPNs are primed and ready to work with all the modern smartphones and tablets running on the OS.
If you're a few generations behind then you should generally be covered, too, as the best Android VPN apps go back a fair few iterations. For example, the NordVPN app is compatible with devices still running Marshmallow, while ExpressVPN and Surfshark go even further back to Lollipop.
It's worth noting some Android VPNs can even be used as a Smart TV VPN depending on what kind of TV you have, too.
How do I setup a VPN on my Android phone?
First things first, it's really easy. And you even have two options to choose from to set up a VPN on your Android phone.
The first involves you scrolling back up this page, choosing the app that you like the look of best (and don't forget, all these VPNs have free trials, so you really don't have to worry too much about committing) and clicking the link to go through to the website. From there, you'll be able to select your plan, sign up, download, and install. Away you go!
Alternatively, get yourself over to the Play Store and search for your chosen VPN app. But it's worth noting that if you go down this road, you might end up missing out on some of the awesome exclusive pricing and VPN deals that only TechRadar readers can get by clicking through to the provider from our pages.
Should I get a free VPN app for Android?
A free VPN is handy in a pinch, but it can't match premium providers when it comes to the quality and quantity of features. You'll also need to deal with limitations – think puny monthly data caps, bandwidth limits, and a smaller pool of servers to choose from.
There are tons of free services on the Play Store but it's better to avoid the majority of them. Some are lightweight versions of full services, designed to tempt you into upgrading, and others are simply scams that are hungry for your identifiable information. Stick to our recommended free services – or check out Surfshark if you want a premium VPN without the premium price tag.
How can I fake my location on Android?
While all good Android VPN apps will let you change the location of your IP address to a server elsewhere, they don't all include fake GPS technology.
In fact, of the big players out there, only Surfshark has an integrated GPS spoofing tool. That makes it the obvious choice if your main reason for getting a VPN is for use with Pokémon Go or similar mobile games.
What is the ioXt Alliance?
With their spelled-out no-logging policies and growing number of independent audits, the challenge VPN companies face is it show that your private web usage is safe in their hands. A new way they have started to do this is by getting the certification of their Android apps from the ioXt Alliance – an organization that seeks to build confidence in the Internet of Things.
In order to get the certificate, providers need to show that their Android VPN apps meet eight strict criteria:
- No universal passwords
- Secured interfaces
- Proven cryptography
- Security by default
- Verified software
- Automatic security updates
- Vulnerability reporting program
- Security expiration date
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.
