Many people today are worried about staying safe online. VPN apps help protect your data when you use the internet on your phone or computer. A good VPN app keeps your online activity private and lets you browse the web without others seeing what you do.
When picking a VPN app, it helps to know which ones work best. Some VPN apps are faster than others. Some are easier to use. Looking at the top VPN services for 2025 can help you choose one that fits your needs.
1. ExpressVPN – Top mobile VPN pick of 2025
ExpressVPN stands out as the top choice for mobile VPN in 2025. Users praise its reliability, fast response times, and simple interface that makes it easy to use for anyone.
The app works smoothly on both iOS and Android devices. It offers a clean layout that helps even beginners connect to secure servers with just one tap.
Security features make ExpressVPN shine brightly. The company uses strong encryption to protect user data and maintains a strict no-logs policy, meaning they don’t track or store your online activities.
Speed tests show impressive results. ExpressVPN maintains fast connections even when users stream videos or play online games on their phones. This performance has helped it earn CNET’s top recommendation for mobile VPN services.
The app includes a network lock feature (kill switch) that stops all internet traffic if your VPN connection drops. This extra layer of protection prevents accidental data leaks when you’re on public Wi-Fi networks.
Users can connect to servers in over 90 countries, giving them plenty of options to bypass geo-restrictions. This wide coverage helps travelers access content from their home countries while abroad.
TechRadar and Tom’s Guide both highlight ExpressVPN’s professional design. The moment you open the app, it’s clear that it’s a quality product built with mobile users in mind.
Customer support runs 24/7 through live chat. Help is always available if users encounter any issues while setting up or using the app.
ExpressVPN offers advanced features without making the app complicated. Split tunneling lets users choose which apps go through the VPN and which ones connect directly to the internet.
The subscription cost runs higher than some competitors. However, many users find the premium price worth paying for the reliability, speed, and security ExpressVPN delivers consistently.
Monthly plans offer flexibility, while longer subscriptions provide better value. All plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee so users can try the service risk-free.
2. NordVPN – Fast and secure for multiple devices
NordVPN stands out as one of the fastest VPNs in the world. It offers great speeds while keeping your online activities private and secure.
One big advantage is that it lets you secure up to 10 devices with just one account. This makes it perfect for families or people with many gadgets.
The app is very easy to use. You can download it on different devices like Android phones and tablets, as well as iPhones and iPads.
NordVPN helps protect you from online threats. It blocks phishing attempts, scams, and malware that could harm your devices.
Many users enjoy the simple interface. With just a few taps, you can connect to servers in different countries and browse safely.
The app works on TVs too. This lets you watch shows and movies from other regions without complicated setup steps.
According to long-time users, NordVPN offers good value for its price. The features and reliability make it worth the cost.
You can download the NordVPN app right from their website. They have versions for all major platforms and devices.
The service not only hides your location but also encrypts your internet traffic. This keeps your data safe, especially when using public Wi-Fi.
NordVPN offers a risk-free trial period. This lets you test all features before committing to a subscription.
The app receives regular updates to fix bugs and add new features. This shows the company cares about improving their service.
For people who stream a lot, NordVPN works well with most streaming services. It can help you access content that might be blocked in your country.
3. Surfshark – Budget-friendly yet powerful
Surfshark stands out as one of the most affordable premium VPN options without cutting corners on performance. Users looking to protect their online activity without breaking the bank will find Surfshark hits the sweet spot between cost and capabilities.
The service offers military-grade encryption and a strong privacy policy, making it a reliable choice for security-conscious users. These features ensure your browsing data stays protected from prying eyes.
One major advantage of Surfshark is that it allows unlimited device connections with a single subscription. This means you can protect your phone, laptop, tablet, and other devices without paying extra.
The app works on multiple platforms including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. This wide compatibility ensures you can stay protected no matter which device you use.
Speed is often a concern with VPNs, but Surfshark maintains good connection speeds that work well for streaming and browsing. Users report minimal slowdowns even when connected to distant servers.
The company offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, giving new users plenty of time to test the service risk-free. This trial period is generous compared to some competitors.
Surfshark’s user interface is intuitive and easy to navigate, making it suitable for VPN beginners. Even those with limited technical knowledge can connect and protect their connection quickly.
The service boasts a large network with servers in many countries. This global coverage helps users bypass geo-restrictions and access content from around the world.
Customer feedback consistently mentions Surfshark’s value proposition. Many users cite the combination of low price and solid performance as the main reason they chose and stick with the service.
For those concerned about streaming, Surfshark works well with popular platforms like Netflix and Hulu. The service can unblock region-specific content without major buffering issues.
The company regularly updates its apps and security measures to address new threats. This ongoing development shows their commitment to keeping users protected.
4. ProtonVPN – Free tier with great security
ProtonVPN stands out in the crowded VPN market by offering a truly free VPN with no data limits. This Swiss-based service puts security and privacy first, even for users who don’t pay.
Unlike most free VPNs, ProtonVPN doesn’t show ads or track user activity. Their no-logs policy means they don’t record what websites you visit or store information that could identify you.
The free plan gives users access to servers in three countries. While this is more limited than paid options, it provides enough coverage for basic privacy needs.
Security remains strong with the free version. ProtonVPN uses AES-256 encryption, which is the same military-grade protection used by banks and governments. Their secure core architecture adds extra layers of protection.
Speed is another area where ProtonVPN shines compared to other free services. Many free VPNs slow down connections, but ProtonVPN doesn’t limit bandwidth even for free users.
The app works on almost all devices. Users can download the free version for Android, iPhone, Windows, Mac, Linux, and even Chromebooks.
Many people worry about free VPNs being unsafe. However, ProtonVPN’s free tier is confirmed to be safe by users and security experts alike. The company funds the free service through its paid plans rather than by selling user data.
The main drawback is that free users can only connect one device at a time. For families or people with multiple devices, this might be limiting.
Free users also can’t access streaming services like Netflix or use P2P file sharing. These features are reserved for paid plans.
ProtonVPN is based in Switzerland, a country with strong privacy laws. This means the company isn’t required to store user data that could be demanded by governments.
For users looking to upgrade, ProtonVPN offers a clear comparison between free and paid plans. The paid versions add more server locations and advanced features while keeping the same strong security.
5. CyberGhost – User-friendly with strong privacy
CyberGhost stands out as a top VPN service in 2025. It has an interface that beginners can easily navigate. The app offers a clean design with simple toggles and clear options that don’t overwhelm users.
Privacy features make CyberGhost a strong choice for security-minded people. The company follows a strict no-logs policy, meaning they don’t track or store your online activities.
Users can connect to servers in over 90 countries according to their download page. This wide coverage helps people access content from almost anywhere in the world.
The VPN works on all major platforms including Windows, iOS, Mac, Android, and Linux. You can protect multiple devices with a single subscription, making it cost-effective for households.
CyberGhost offers specialized servers for streaming and torrenting. These servers are optimized to work with popular streaming services and provide fast speeds for downloading.
Speed tests show that CyberGhost performs well for daily tasks. While not the absolute best on the market, it maintains decent connection speeds that satisfy most users.
The service includes an automatic kill switch that cuts your internet if the VPN connection drops. This prevents your real IP address from being exposed accidentally.
CyberGhost offers a generous 45-day money-back guarantee. This gives new users plenty of time to test the service and decide if it meets their needs.
Customer support is available 24/7 through live chat. Users can get quick answers to technical questions or help with account issues at any time.
The app includes ad-blocking and malware protection features. These tools add extra layers of security when browsing potentially risky websites.
CyberGhost’s privacy policy is transparent and easy to understand. They clearly explain what limited information they collect and how they use it.
While CyberGhost faces tough competition from services like ExpressVPN and NordVPN, it remains a solid choice for those who value both ease of use and privacy protection.
6. IPVanish – Reliable for data protection
IPVanish stands out as a strong option for users who prioritize data protection. This VPN service encrypts users’ private data to guard against various online threats.
For beginners entering the VPN world, IPVanish offers a user-friendly experience. It’s good for new VPN users who want basic online privacy protection without complex settings.
The service provides fast speeds and works on multiple devices. Users can protect their phones, computers, and tablets with a single subscription, making it convenient for families.
IPVanish has faced some trust issues in the past. In 2016, there were concerns about providing user data to the government, which worried privacy-focused users.
However, the company has worked to rebuild trust. They’ve gone through several independent audits to verify their security practices and privacy claims.
Their no-logs policy means they don’t track or store records of your online activities. This adds an extra layer of privacy for those concerned about their digital footprint.
IPVanish helps users avoid data sharing from internet service providers. It also helps bypass censorship in some regions where internet access is restricted.
The service offers protection when using public Wi-Fi networks. This feature is especially helpful for travelers or people who often work from coffee shops.
IPVanish provides around-the-clock customer support. Users can get help whenever they encounter problems with the service.
Price-wise, IPVanish sits in the mid-range compared to other VPN services. They often run special promotions that make their plans more affordable.
The app interface is clean and straightforward. Even people with limited technical knowledge can connect to servers and protect their data quickly.
For those who want basic protection against data sharing, censorship, and government interference, IPVanish delivers reliable service without overwhelming complexity.
7. Hotspot Shield – Known for speed and ease
Hotspot Shield stands out in the VPN market as a top choice for users who need fast connections. It has been verified as the #1 VPN for speed by experts. This makes it perfect for streaming, gaming, and other activities that need quick internet access.
The app offers a user-friendly interface that makes it easy for beginners to use. You don’t need technical know-how to get started with Hotspot Shield. Just download, install, and connect with a single click.
Hotspot Shield works on many devices including Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. This wide compatibility means you can protect all your devices with one service.
For those on a budget, Hotspot Shield offers a free version with basic features. While the free option has some limits, it gives users a chance to try the service before buying.
The premium version unlocks more features and removes restrictions. It lets users connect to more server locations around the world. This gives more options for accessing geo-restricted content.
Security is also a key feature of Hotspot Shield. The VPN helps secure your internet connection and lets you surf the web without sharing your identity. This protection is vital when using public Wi-Fi networks.
Many users choose Hotspot Shield for streaming services. The high speeds mean you can watch shows without buffering or delays. The service unblocks many popular streaming platforms.
Mobile users praise the iOS and Android apps for their simple design. The apps run smoothly in the background without draining battery life too quickly.
Hotspot Shield has built a strong name for itself among VPN providers. Its focus on speed and ease of use makes it a good choice for most internet users. Whether you need a VPN for daily browsing or occasional secure access, Hotspot Shield offers a reliable option.
8. Turbo VPN – Free unlimited VPN proxy
Turbo VPN offers users a free and unlimited VPN proxy service. This popular app helps secure online activities and provides stable VPN servers for a smooth browsing experience.
With Turbo VPN, you get access to lightning-fast VPN connections through optimized server locations. The app focuses on speed while maintaining privacy protection.
Users can enjoy unlimited free VPN service without any costs. This makes it a good choice for people who need VPN protection without a monthly fee.
The app works on many devices. It’s available on Google Play for Android users and the App Store for Apple devices.
Turbo VPN also offers a Chrome extension for those who want VPN protection directly in their browser. This extension helps users access blocked websites easily.
The service boasts more than 21,000 fast servers worldwide. This large network helps users find nearby servers for better speeds when browsing or streaming content online.
One big selling point is how Turbo VPN helps users access geo-restricted content. People use it to unblock websites and apps that might not be available in their location.
Security is another key feature. The VPN creates a private connection to help protect user data when using public WiFi networks or other potentially unsafe internet access points.
Turbo VPN also offers a lighter version called Turbo VPN Lite. This smaller app uses fewer resources but still provides the core VPN functions.
The main Turbo VPN website promotes their service as the best free VPN online service for 2024. They focus on both speed and security for private browsing and streaming needs.
9. TunnelBear – Simple and visually appealing
TunnelBear stands out in the crowded VPN market with its friendly design and easy-to-use interface. This simple VPN app helps users browse privately and securely without complicated settings or technical knowledge.
What makes TunnelBear special is its charming bear-themed design. The playful graphics don’t take away from its serious security features, but instead make using a VPN feel less intimidating for beginners.
The app works on multiple platforms including Mac, PC, iOS, Android, and Chrome. This wide availability ensures you can protect your browsing no matter which device you’re using.
TunnelBear changes your IP address and protects your browsing data from prying eyes. This keeps your online activities private when using public WiFi or accessing region-restricted content.
According to reviews, TunnelBear has an outstanding position on privacy. The company is transparent about its security practices, which builds trust with users concerned about their data.
The interface is streamlined and user-friendly. You won’t find complex menus or confusing options—just a map showing your connection and bears tunneling to your selected location.
For those new to VPNs, TunnelBear offers a perfect starting point. Its whimsical design makes security feel approachable rather than technical.
The app is available on both the App Store and Google Play, allowing most smartphone users to access its protection.
While experts might want more advanced features, TunnelBear is well worth trying for VPN beginners and casual users. It strikes a good balance between security and simplicity.
The visual approach used by TunnelBear turns the usually boring task of connecting to a VPN into something almost fun. This clever design choice helps users stick with good security habits.
10. VyprVPN – Robust performance and security
VyprVPN stands out as a trusted VPN service with over 15 years of experience protecting users online. It offers a strong mix of speed and privacy features that make it worth considering.
The app runs on a network that’s fully owned and managed by the company. This means fewer third parties have access to your data, which adds an extra layer of security to your browsing.
One key feature is their Chameleon protocol. This technology helps users bypass VPN blocking in countries with strict internet rules. It’s especially useful for travelers or those living in regions with heavy internet censorship.
VyprVPN has a strict no-log policy that’s been verified by independent auditors. This means they don’t track or store your online activities when you use their service.
The app works well for streaming shows and movies from various platforms. Users can access content from different regions without facing the usual geographic restrictions.
Speed tests show VyprVPN performs consistently well across different server locations. This makes it suitable for bandwidth-heavy activities like HD streaming or online gaming.
The interface is clean and user-friendly. Even beginners can connect to servers and adjust settings without confusion. The app is available for all major devices including phones, tablets, and computers.
Security features include strong encryption, an automatic kill switch, and DNS leak protection. These tools work together to keep your data safe from prying eyes.
VyprVPN is affordable compared to similar services while still offering premium features. They typically provide several plan options with discounts for longer commitments.
Customer support is available 24/7 through live chat and email. This can be crucial when you need quick help with connection issues or account questions.
The service allows up to 30 simultaneous connections with a single account. This generous limit means you can protect all your family’s devices at once without extra fees.
Why Use VPN Apps?
VPN apps protect your online activity and let you access content that might be blocked in your location. They create a secure tunnel for your data while hiding your real location from websites and services.
Security Benefits
VPN apps add a strong layer of protection to your online activities. They encrypt your data so others can’t see what you’re doing online. This is especially important when using public Wi-Fi networks at coffee shops, airports, or hotels.
A good VPN app stops your internet provider from tracking your browsing habits. Many providers collect and sell this data to advertisers.
VPNs also hide your real IP address, making it harder for websites to know who you are or where you’re located. This adds privacy when shopping, banking, or just browsing.
Some VPN apps include extra security features like:
- Ad blockers
- Malware protection
- Kill switches that cut your internet if the VPN drops
Accessing Geographically Restricted Content
VPN apps help you get around location-based content blocks. Many streaming services limit what you can watch based on where you are. With a VPN, you can connect to servers in different countries to access their content libraries.
This works because the VPN masks your actual location and makes websites think you’re browsing from the VPN server’s location. For example, you could watch shows available only in the UK while sitting in Australia.
Beyond entertainment, VPN apps help travelers access important services from home. Banking websites sometimes block foreign access for security reasons.
VPNs also help people in countries with internet censorship. Users can bypass government blocks on news sites, social media, and communication tools. This provides access to information that might otherwise be restricted.
Key Features to Look for in VPN Apps
When choosing a VPN app, certain features can make a big difference in your online safety and user experience. Strong encryption and good privacy policies are the backbone of any reliable VPN service.
Encryption Standards
The encryption level used by a VPN app is crucial for keeping data safe. The gold standard is AES-256 encryption, which is virtually unbreakable with current technology. This is the same encryption used by many banks and government agencies.
VPN apps should also offer modern protocols like:
- WireGuard: Faster and more efficient than older options
- OpenVPN: Trusted, open-source, and very secure
- IKEv2: Good for mobile devices that switch between networks
Users should check that their VPN uses perfect forward secrecy, which creates new encryption keys for each session. This means that even if one session is somehow compromised, past and future sessions remain secure.
A good VPN will be clear about its encryption methods in its documentation. The strongest VPNs don’t hide these details from users.
User Privacy Protection
A clear VPN logging policy is essential. The best VPNs have strict no-logs policies, meaning they don’t track or store what users do online. This protects users if the company ever receives legal demands for data.
Key privacy features to look for include:
- Kill switch: Cuts internet if the VPN drops, preventing data leaks
- DNS leak protection: Ensures requests don’t bypass the VPN tunnel
- Anonymous DNS servers: Prevent your ISP from seeing website requests
Users should also check where the VPN company is based. Some countries have strict data retention laws that might force companies to keep records, regardless of their stated policies.
Privacy-focused VPNs often undergo independent audits to verify their no-logs claims. These audit reports should be public and recent.
Frequently Asked Questions
VPN apps have different strengths and features for various needs. Some excel at mobile protection while others offer better streaming capabilities or stronger privacy controls.
What are the best VPN applications for mobile devices?
ExpressVPN stands out as the top mobile VPN for 2025. It offers fast connections and an easy-to-use interface on both iOS and Android.
NordVPN provides excellent security features for mobile users. Its threat protection feature blocks ads and malware before they reach your device.
Surfshark works well for families or users with multiple mobile devices. It offers unlimited simultaneous connections, making it a cost-effective choice.
What are the top-rated VPN services for personal computers?
NordVPN ranks highly for PC users due to its powerful desktop apps for Windows and Mac. It offers specialized servers for different activities like streaming or extra privacy.
CyberGhost provides a user-friendly experience for computer users. Its apps include task-specific profiles that optimize settings based on what you’re doing online.
ExpressVPN delivers consistent performance across all major computer operating systems. Its TrustedServer technology ensures no data is ever written to hard drives.
Which VPN providers offer the most reliable free service options?
ProtonVPN leads the free VPN market with no data caps. Unlike most free services, it doesn’t limit how much you can browse or download.
Windscribe offers a generous 10GB monthly data allowance on its free plan. It also includes servers in 10 countries, which is rare for free options.
Hide.me provides a basic free plan with 10GB monthly data. Their free service maintains a strict no-logs policy, matching their paid offerings.
How do the leading VPN apps enhance user privacy and data security?
Top VPN apps use military-grade encryption to protect your data. This makes your information unreadable to hackers, ISPs, and other snoopers.
Many quality services maintain strict no-logs policies. NordVPN and Surfshark have been independently audited to verify they don’t track user activity.
Kill switch features prevent data leaks if your VPN connection drops. This automatically blocks internet access until the secure connection is restored.
What features should users look for when choosing a VPN application for iOS and Android?
Look for VPNs with dedicated mobile apps rather than generic OpenVPN configurations. Purpose-built apps offer better performance and more features.
Strong encryption and leak protection are essential. The best mobile VPNs use AES-256 encryption and protect against DNS and IP leaks.
Battery efficiency matters for mobile devices. Some VPNs like ExpressVPN and Surfshark are optimized to minimize battery drain while running.
What are the most recommended VPN applications for streaming and P2P file sharing?
NordVPN is great at unblocking streaming services like Netflix and Disney+. It also consistently bypasses geo-restrictions with minimal buffering.
ExpressVPN offers fast speeds that are ideal for HD and 4K streaming. Its server network spans 94 countries, providing access to content worldwide.
Surfshark works well for P2P activities with specialized servers. It also offers unlimited connections, letting you torrent while family members stream on different devices.
CyberGhost has dedicated streaming servers labeled by which service they unblock. This takes the guesswork out of finding a working server for Netflix or other platforms.
