Whether you sport an iPhone 17 or a legacy iOS device, adopting a virtual private network (VPN) is beneficial. VPNs encrypt your online traffic and, by layering encryption on your communication. The services also protect your data from digital eavesdroppers, marketers, and third parties. In addition, if you want to stream content that isn't available in your area, a VPN can unlock access to different streaming libraries worldwide, making VPNs a great choice for streaming on mobile devices.
If you're on the hunt for an iOS-compatible VPN, prioritize security, then consider other features you want like a large server network for changing your location, the number of simultaneous connections, intuitive, easy-to-use mobile apps, or privacy features like email masking and password management.
In 's latest update, we revised our guide to the best iPhone VPNs of 2026, including a thorough revision of our top recommendations.
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Recommends NordVPN Best iPhone VPN overall
Best iPhone VPN overall NordVPN
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Surfshark VPN Best budget iPhone VPN
Best budget iPhone VPN Surfshark VPN
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ExpressVPN Best iPhone VPN for speed and usability
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What is the best iPhone VPN right now?
Based on my extensive testing, my pick for the best VPN for iPhone is NordVPN . Available for $3.39 per month, NordVPN provides rapid speeds, solid connectivity, and a massive server network. Furthermore, the NordVPN iOS app is user-friendly and won't noticeably drain your phone's battery with continual use. This is important if you want to use a VPN while you're away from home.
Alternatively, if you want a budget-friendly and user-friendly iPhone VPN, you should explore Surfshark 's offerings. Starter plans begin at only $2 per month with three months of free service.
Also: The best travel VPNs
I tested every top VPN and found the best ones that offer solid iPhone and Apple iOS ecosystem apps, robust security, and rapid speeds. I conduct frequent speed and security tests for each VPN I recommend, and I also explore new offerings on the market as they appear. If you want to find out what the best VPNs for iPhone are in 2026, check out my recommendations below.
Sort by All Countries and servers Usability Speed and performance Security PriceThe best VPN for iOS in 2026
Show less View now at NordvpnNordVPN is one of the more popular VPN offerings in the App Store, and for good reason.
Why we like it: Installing NordVPN on an iPhone is a simple, painless way to secure reliable performance across regions. The service is also compatible with iOS 16 or later.
NordVPN's interface is user-friendly, and we found the service offers consistent, rapid, and reliable speeds that don't noticeably affect streaming or internet browsing.
Also: Best free antivirus software of 2026
We consider this VPN to be one of the best available, combining speed, server availability in 126 countries, and reliability. The service offers 10 simultaneous connections, but we would still prefer unlimited.
In addition to standard service, NordVPN's integration with Siri lets you set up shortcut commands on iOS and launch protection on the go.
Optional add-ons include a password manager, scam call protection, ad and tracker blockers, and cloud storage. NordVPN has also recently partnered with CrowdStrike to improve its threat protection service.
Review: NordVPN
Who is it for: I've tested NordVPN for years and its stable connectivity and speeds are always impressive. Customers generally report an easy setup, fast speeds and minimal buffering, although some caution that you should turn off auto-renewal.
In addition to iOS, NordVPN runs on all the most popular platforms. Prices start from $3.39 per month on a two-year standard plan. Yearly plans begin at $5 per month.
The service also offers additional cybersecurity options through its premium plans, including identity theft and cyber extortion coverage.
Who should look elsewhere: If you want something more affordable, check out Surfshark.
NordVPN features: Simultaneous connections: 10 Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, tvOS, and routers Countries: 126 Kill switch: Yes Logging: Email address and billing information only Money-back guarantee: 30 days Trial: Seven days on Android Trustpilot rating: 4.1 Google Play rating: 4.6 App Store rating: 4.7
Countries and servers 10 Usability 9 Speed and performance 10 Security 8 Price 7Pros
- Simple, straightforward app installation
- Excellent speeds
- Great for streaming
- Solid performance
- No unlimited simultaneous connections
NordVPN
Best iPhone VPN overall
4.4 / 5 ScoreNordVPN is one of the more popular VPN offerings in the App Store, and for good reason.
Why we like it: Installing NordVPN on an iPhone is a simple, painless way to secure reliable performance across regions. The service is also compatible with iOS 16 or later.
NordVPN's interface is user-friendly, and we found the service offers consistent, rapid, and reliable speeds that don't noticeably affect streaming or internet browsing.
Also: Best free antivirus software of 2026
We consider this VPN to be one of the best available, combining speed, server availability in 126 countries, and reliability. The service offers 10 simultaneous connections, but we would still prefer unlimited.
In addition to standard service, NordVPN's integration with Siri lets you set up shortcut commands on iOS and launch protection on the go.
Optional add-ons include a password manager, scam call protection, ad and tracker blockers, and cloud storage. NordVPN has also recently partnered with CrowdStrike to improve its threat protection service.
Review: NordVPN
Who is it for: I've tested NordVPN for years and its stable connectivity and speeds are always impressive. Customers generally report an easy setup, fast speeds and minimal buffering, although some caution that you should turn off auto-renewal.
In addition to iOS, NordVPN runs on all the most popular platforms. Prices start from $3.39 per month on a two-year standard plan. Yearly plans begin at $5 per month.
The service also offers additional cybersecurity options through its premium plans, including identity theft and cyber extortion coverage.
Who should look elsewhere: If you want something more affordable, check out Surfshark.
NordVPN features: Simultaneous connections: 10 Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, tvOS, and routers Countries: 126 Kill switch: Yes Logging: Email address and billing information only Money-back guarantee: 30 days Trial: Seven days on Android Trustpilot rating: 4.1 Google Play rating: 4.6 App Store rating: 4.7
Read MoreSurfshark, one of my favorite services, is an affordable and reliable VPN with iPhone compatibility.
Why we like it: During testing, I enjoyed using Surfshark as a "one size fits all" VPN solution. Sometimes the streaming speeds aren't the best, and it can take a moment to connect to your preferred server. This VPN still provides excellent value for money.
Surfshark supports devices running iOS 15 and above. The app has many features including ad- and tracker-blocking, a data breach scanner, and multi-hop connections. It's excellent for iPhone users due to its intuitiveness, simple and quick connection process, and affordable price point.
Review: Surfshark VPN
When I reviewed Surfshark, I also found no information leaks. It offers AES-256-GCM, RSA-2048, and Perfect Forward Secrecy encryption.
I also like the "pause" function, which allows you to resume your regular, unprotected connection for five minutes, 30 minutes, or a few hours. This comes in handy if you need quick access to specific services only available in your home region.
Who is it for: If you're looking for a consistently affordable VPN, Surfshark is for you.
Surfshark has excellent deals to consider, starting from $2 per month on a two-year contract or $3.19 per month on the annual plan. The VPN provider has thrown in three extra months on the 12- and 24-month plans.
Who should look elsewhere: Customers say speeds are relatively fast and streaming works most of the time, although some experienced issues with a handful of popular content services. I find Surfshark provides excellent value, but if speed is king, take a look at NordVPN or ExpressVPN instead.
Surfshark VPN features: Simultaneous connections: Unlimited Ad blocker Two-factor authentication Kill switch: Yes Countries: 100 Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Fire TV, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, tvOS, and routers Money-back guarantee: 30 days Trial: Seven days on Android, iOS, and macOS Trustpilot rating: 4.4 Google Play rating: 4.6 App Store rating: 4.7
Countries and servers 8 Usability 9 Speed and performance 6 Security 8 Price 9Pros
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Value for money
- Beginner friendly
- Consistently low pricing
- Slower server connection times
Surfshark VPN
Best budget iPhone VPN
4 / 5 ScoreSurfshark, one of my favorite services, is an affordable and reliable VPN with iPhone compatibility.
Why we like it: During testing, I enjoyed using Surfshark as a "one size fits all" VPN solution. Sometimes the streaming speeds aren't the best, and it can take a moment to connect to your preferred server. This VPN still provides excellent value for money.
Surfshark supports devices running iOS 15 and above. The app has many features including ad- and tracker-blocking, a data breach scanner, and multi-hop connections. It's excellent for iPhone users due to its intuitiveness, simple and quick connection process, and affordable price point.
Review: Surfshark VPN
When I reviewed Surfshark, I also found no information leaks. It offers AES-256-GCM, RSA-2048, and Perfect Forward Secrecy encryption.
I also like the "pause" function, which allows you to resume your regular, unprotected connection for five minutes, 30 minutes, or a few hours. This comes in handy if you need quick access to specific services only available in your home region.
Who is it for: If you're looking for a consistently affordable VPN, Surfshark is for you.
Surfshark has excellent deals to consider, starting from $2 per month on a two-year contract or $3.19 per month on the annual plan. The VPN provider has thrown in three extra months on the 12- and 24-month plans.
Who should look elsewhere: Customers say speeds are relatively fast and streaming works most of the time, although some experienced issues with a handful of popular content services. I find Surfshark provides excellent value, but if speed is king, take a look at NordVPN or ExpressVPN instead.
Surfshark VPN features: Simultaneous connections: Unlimited Ad blocker Two-factor authentication Kill switch: Yes Countries: 100 Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Fire TV, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, tvOS, and routers Money-back guarantee: 30 days Trial: Seven days on Android, iOS, and macOS Trustpilot rating: 4.4 Google Play rating: 4.6 App Store rating: 4.7
Read MoreThe ExpressVPN app supports iOS 15 and up, and it's compatible with all major platforms.
Why we like it: For sheer speed. I've used ExpressVPN for years, and it's a speedy, reliable service with a great server network. I also like ExpressVPN's Auto-Connect feature on iPhone, which instantly starts a secure VPN tunnel before you connect to any untrusted Wi-Fi hotspot.
Review: ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN has servers located in 105 countries, including all 50 U.S. states. It also ranks among the fastest VPNs, so it shouldn't reduce your connection speeds as much as the average VPN.
You can use between 10 and 14 connections simultaneously, which means you can spread this VPN's protection across devices like your desktop PC, laptop, smartphone, and TV.
ExpressVPN doesn't maintain browsing history logs, but it does keep track of information like the dates you connect and the location of the VPN server you connect to. The details of what is and isn't logged are , which has been confirmed by recent audits.
The VPN provider recently secured four new ISO certifications. Within its latest transparency report, ExpressVPN revealed it didn't hand over any user data despite receiving over 1.38 million DMCA requests and 155 government and law enforcement requests.
Who is it for: Overall, if you're looking for a set-and-forget VPN with excellent speeds and user-friendliness, ExpressVPN is a top pick.
The best deal is for a two-year plan, which costs $2.44 per month with four months free. A seven-day free trial allows you to test the VPN on an iPhone or any other compatible device.
Who should look elsewhere: Many customer reviews are positive, but the fact that simultaneous connections are not unlimited might be a deciding factor. If so, consider Surfshark.
ExpressVPN features: Simultaneous connections: 10 - 14 Kill switch: Yes Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Linux, Fire TV, Android TV, tvOS, and routers Countries: 105 Logging: No browsing logs, some connection logs Money-back guarantee: 30 days Trial: Seven days on Android and iOS Trustpilot rating: 3.9 Google Play rating: 4.7 App Store rating: 4.7
Countries and servers 9 Usability 10 Speed and performance 10 Security 8 Price 5Pros
- Works on an exceptionally large number of platforms outside of iOS
- Consistent performance
- Easy setup
- Extensive server network
- Excellent speeds
- More expensive than competitors
- Limited simultaneous connections
ExpressVPN
Best iPhone VPN for speed and usability
4.2 / 5 ScoreThe ExpressVPN app supports iOS 15 and up, and it's compatible with all major platforms.
Why we like it: For sheer speed. I've used ExpressVPN for years, and it's a speedy, reliable service with a great server network. I also like ExpressVPN's Auto-Connect feature on iPhone, which instantly starts a secure VPN tunnel before you connect to any untrusted Wi-Fi hotspot.
Review: ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN has servers located in 105 countries, including all 50 U.S. states. It also ranks among the fastest VPNs, so it shouldn't reduce your connection speeds as much as the average VPN.
You can use between 10 and 14 connections simultaneously, which means you can spread this VPN's protection across devices like your desktop PC, laptop, smartphone, and TV.
ExpressVPN doesn't maintain browsing history logs, but it does keep track of information like the dates you connect and the location of the VPN server you connect to. The details of what is and isn't logged are , which has been confirmed by recent audits.
The VPN provider recently secured four new ISO certifications. Within its latest transparency report, ExpressVPN revealed it didn't hand over any user data despite receiving over 1.38 million DMCA requests and 155 government and law enforcement requests.
Who is it for: Overall, if you're looking for a set-and-forget VPN with excellent speeds and user-friendliness, ExpressVPN is a top pick.
The best deal is for a two-year plan, which costs $2.44 per month with four months free. A seven-day free trial allows you to test the VPN on an iPhone or any other compatible device.
Who should look elsewhere: Many customer reviews are positive, but the fact that simultaneous connections are not unlimited might be a deciding factor. If so, consider Surfshark.
ExpressVPN features: Simultaneous connections: 10 - 14 Kill switch: Yes Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Linux, Fire TV, Android TV, tvOS, and routers Countries: 105 Logging: No browsing logs, some connection logs Money-back guarantee: 30 days Trial: Seven days on Android and iOS Trustpilot rating: 3.9 Google Play rating: 4.7 App Store rating: 4.7
Read MoreIPVanish is an excellent, customizable VPN option for iOS and Mac devices.
Why we like it: IPVanish has depth and plenty of configuration settings for those who want to control almost every aspect of their VPN connection. The service also offers unlimited connections under one account, a feature we always like to see included in VPN packages.
While it doesn't have the most stylish or intuitive user interface, IPVanish VPN has many protocols, so you'll always know what to expect regardless of what you're connecting to. In addition, the app has an extensive range of server selection options.
Review: IPVanish VPN
I find IPVanish to be reasonably fast and also quick to connect. IPVanish's data transfers are secure, and it's well-regarded as a secure service. Customers report they are happy with IPVanish's customer service and the overall speed and reliability of the VPN.
The service's security is also independently audited, and the company is transitioning to RAM-only servers.
Who is it for: Someone who wants more control over the protocols and settings their VPN utilizes during browser sessions.
You can sign up for a two-year plan for $2.19 per month or a yearly subscription for $3.33 per month. IPVanish supports iOS 14 and up, which could make it the best option for legacy OS users.
Who should look elsewhere: Anyone who is willing to pay a little more each month for more power. While a recent upgrade to its server fleet to 108 locations made IPVanish more competitive, speed still needs improvement.
Note: IPVanish is owned by Ziff Davis, 's parent company. For more, see our Editorial Guidelines.
IPVanish VPN features: Simultaneous connections: Unlimited Kill switch: Yes Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, tvOS, Kodi, and routers Logging: None, except billing data Locations: 108 countries Money-back guarantee: 30 days Trial: Seven days on Android and iOS Trustpilot rating: 4.3 Google Play rating: 4.7 App Store rating: 4.6
Countries and servers 8 Usability 8 Speed and performance 7 Security 7 Price 8Pros
- Unlimited connections
- Highly configurable app
- Affordable
- Recently expanded server network
- Bland user interface
- Few additional privacy features
IPVanish VPN
Best configurable VPN for iPhone
3.8 / 5 ScoreIPVanish is an excellent, customizable VPN option for iOS and Mac devices.
Why we like it: IPVanish has depth and plenty of configuration settings for those who want to control almost every aspect of their VPN connection. The service also offers unlimited connections under one account, a feature we always like to see included in VPN packages.
While it doesn't have the most stylish or intuitive user interface, IPVanish VPN has many protocols, so you'll always know what to expect regardless of what you're connecting to. In addition, the app has an extensive range of server selection options.
Review: IPVanish VPN
I find IPVanish to be reasonably fast and also quick to connect. IPVanish's data transfers are secure, and it's well-regarded as a secure service. Customers report they are happy with IPVanish's customer service and the overall speed and reliability of the VPN.
The service's security is also independently audited, and the company is transitioning to RAM-only servers.
Who is it for: Someone who wants more control over the protocols and settings their VPN utilizes during browser sessions.
You can sign up for a two-year plan for $2.19 per month or a yearly subscription for $3.33 per month. IPVanish supports iOS 14 and up, which could make it the best option for legacy OS users.
Who should look elsewhere: Anyone who is willing to pay a little more each month for more power. While a recent upgrade to its server fleet to 108 locations made IPVanish more competitive, speed still needs improvement.
Note: IPVanish is owned by Ziff Davis, 's parent company. For more, see our Editorial Guidelines.
IPVanish VPN features: Simultaneous connections: Unlimited Kill switch: Yes Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, tvOS, Kodi, and routers Logging: None, except billing data Locations: 108 countries Money-back guarantee: 30 days Trial: Seven days on Android and iOS Trustpilot rating: 4.3 Google Play rating: 4.7 App Store rating: 4.6
Read MoreIn general, I recommend avoiding free VPNs. A free VPN service could still make money selling your data. This defeats the purpose of using the service to protect your identity, activities, and other information -- but Proton VPN makes the cut.
Why we like it: The only situation where using a free VPN may not come with security concerns is when it's a free version of a reputable paid service, as is the case with Proton VPN.
While limited to servers in five regions -- the Netherlands, Japan, Romania, Poland, and the United States -- you know the plan is supported by paid subscribers, and your data is safe. However, you'll only be granted one device connection, so choose wisely.
You also won't be bombarded with ads.
Review: Proton VPN
Proton VPN provides a kill switch, various encryption protocols to choose from, and the benefit of an open-source approach, which allows for transparent third-party auditing. Proton is a Swiss company and adheres to the country's privacy laws.
More free server locations are also on the firm's 2026 product roadmap.
Who is it for: Despite poor Trustpilot reviews, many linked to the free plan restrictions, users often report a positive experience with this VPN provider. Reviews note its ease of use, low CAPTCHA block rates on websites, and stable connectivity.
If you need a free -- albeit limited -- VPN for your iPhone, Proton VPN is a good option.
Who should look elsewhere: If you want access to a full server network and likely better speeds, either opt for Proton VPN's paid plan or check out another of my recommendations.
If you are interested i...