Best VPN for iPhone (2025): 5 fast & won’t drain battery

You chose an iPhone for a reason. Its powerful security and seamless design create a digital fortress for your data protection. But even the most secure fortress has a vulnerability: The connection it uses to reach the outside world. That’s where a VPN comes in – it protects your internet connection, not just your device.

When you’re using the Wi-Fi at a coffee shop or airport, your online activity is an open book to your internet provider and potential snoops on the network. The App Store is flooded with options, making the search for the best VPN for iPhone feel like finding a needle in a haystack. How do you know which ones are fast, secure, and won’t drain your battery?

As a cybersecurity analyst and a long-time iPhone user, I understand that a VPN app for iOS must be more than just secure. It needs to feel like a native part of the ecosystem. That’s why we didn’t just read spec sheets. Instead, we installed the top contenders on our iPhone 15, timed their connection speeds, and measured their exact battery drain during a one-hour streaming test. Let’s find the perfect VPN app that complements your iPhone.

1. Quick summary: The TOP 5 iPhone VPNs

In a rush? I get it. You don’t need to wade through thousands of words if you just want to secure your iOS device now. After weeks of testing speed, battery drain, and app usability on my own iPhone 15 and iPad, here is the executive summary of the top performers for 2025.

I’ve categorized these based on what matters most to iPhone users: speed, a seamless user experience, and battery efficiency.

If you are still deciding, here is the need-to-know breakdown for each:

1. ExpressVPN: If you are not “tech-savvy” and just want a button that works every time, pick this. It is slightly more expensive, but the Lightway protocol connects instantly and feels invisible during daily browsing.
2. NordVPN: This is my daily driver. It hits the sweet spot between performance and price. The Threat Protection Lite feature on iOS is great for blocking malicious ads, and the Siri Shortcuts integration makes connecting hands-free a breeze.
3. Surfshark: Perfect if you live in the Apple ecosystem. You can install it on your iPhone, iPad, MacBook, and even share it with family members – all on one subscription. The iOS widgets are also very well designed for quick access.
4. Proton VPN: If you are not ready to pay, start here. Most free VPNs are data traps, but Proton is legitimate. You won’t get the fastest speeds or streaming support on the free tier, but for checking emails on public Wi-Fi, it’s a lifesaver.
5. CyberGhost: I love how their iOS app organizes servers. Instead of guessing, you just tap on the “Streaming” tab and select “Netflix US” or “Hulu.” It takes the frustration out of finding a working server.

2. The best VPN for iPhone in 2025

Now, let’s explore why these VPNs earned their spot on our list. We spent weeks using these apps in our daily lives because a VPN for your iPhone should feel like a natural extension of the device – simple, fast, and reliable. Throughout our testing, we prioritized services that offer a seamless user experience consistent with Apple’s high standards.

2.1. #1 – ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN sets the standard for a premium user experience on iPhone, prioritizing speed and effortless usability above all else.

iOS App Rating

4.7 / 5

Key Protocol

Lightway

Simultaneous Connections

8

Unique Feature: 
   Lock Screen
   Home Screen Widgets

This is for the iPhone user who values a premium, “set it and forget it” experience. If you want maximum security with zero fuss and an app that feels like it was designed by Apple itself, ExpressVPN is the one.

App experience

The moment you open the ExpressVPN app, it feels familiar. It follows Apple’s design philosophy perfectly: It’s incredibly clean, minimalist, and built around a single, giant “On” button. There’s no clutter or confusing menus. I’m convinced I could hand my phone to my tech-averse parents, and they’d be connected in seconds without a single question. It just works.

iOS-specific features

ExpressVPN defaults to its own Lightway protocol, which is the secret sauce behind its rock-solid stability and speed on mobile. It handles the switch from Wi-Fi to 5G seamlessly without dropping the connection. The app also offers handy widgets for your Home Screen and Lock Screen. These allow you to connect or disconnect without needing to open the app itself – a feature I use constantly.

Performance

As our lab tests showed, ExpressVPN is a top performer. It had the fastest connection time of all our tested VPNs and had a negligible impact on battery life. Streaming 4K video felt exactly the same as it did without the VPN enabled.

2.2. #2 – NordVPN

For the iPhone user who wants blazing-fast speeds combined with a powerful suite of security tools, NordVPN is the clear winner.

iOS App Rating

4.7 / 5

Key Protocol
NordLynx
(WireGuard)

Simultaneous Connections

10

Unique Feature: 

Siri Shortcut Integration

This option is for the power user. If you love having extra security features, enjoy tinkering with settings, and want the absolute fastest speeds available, NordVPN offers the best combination of performance and protection.

App experience

NordVPN takes a more visual approach with its interactive map interface. While some might prefer ExpressVPN’s simplicity, I personally find the map fun – it feels a bit like you’re a secret agent selecting a server location. The app is feature-rich but well-organized and includes a sleek dark mode. It also features a reliable automatic kill switch that instantly cuts your internet if the VPN connection drops, preventing data leaks.

iOS-specific features

This is where NordVPN shines. It has a built-in Threat Protection (Lite) feature that blocks ads and malicious trackers at the DNS level. Its standout feature is support for Siri Shortcuts. For users demanding extreme privacy, the app supports multi-hop connections, routing your traffic through two servers instead of one.

I set up a simple command, “Hey Siri, quick connect”, which automatically secures my connection as I’m walking out the door. The app uses its custom NordLynx protocol, which is why it aced our speed tests.

Performance

NordVPN was the undisputed speed champion in our tests, making it a fantastic choice for gamers, streamers, and anyone downloading large files on their iPhone.

2.3. #3 – Surfshark

Surfshark‘s unbeatable value proposition makes it the smartest choice for anyone looking to protect more than just their iPhone.

iOS App Rating

4.8 / 5

Key Protocol

WireGuard

Simultaneous Connections

Unlimited

Unique Feature: 
Unlimited simultaneous connections

Anyone with multiple devices or a family, this is for you. If you want to secure every phone, tablet, and computer in your household without breaking the bank, Surfshark offers the best value on the market, hands down.

App experience

Surfshark’s app feels modern, bright, and intuitive. It’s easy to navigate, with a clear connect button and a list of server locations that’s simple to search. It also supports dark mode and has a dedicated widget for one-tap connections. You can also easily enable multi-hop routing directly from the main screen for an extra layer of encryption.

iOS-specific features

Surfshark’s killer feature isn’t in the app itself, but in its generous subscription plans that offer unlimited simultaneous connections. This is a game-changer. With my single Surfshark subscription, I secured my iPhone and my partner’s iPhone.

I also protected our iPad for the kids and my MacBook. This wide compatibility across the entire Apple ecosystem and other platforms makes it incredibly versatile.

All this was for less than the price of a fancy coffee per month. Inside the app, you get the fast WireGuard protocol and CleanWeb, which effectively blocks ads and pop-ups.

Performance

While it wasn’t the absolute fastest, Surfshark’s performance was excellent and more than capable for streaming HD content or browsing without any noticeable lag. The connection is stable and reliable.

2.4. #4 – CyberGhost

CyberGhost is the perfect choice for streamers and beginners, taking all the guesswork out of unblocking your favorite content.

iOS App Rating

4.4 / 5

Key Protocol
IKEv2
WireGuard

Simultaneous Connections

7

Unique Feature: 
Dedicated servers for streaming

It’s the best choice for the movie and TV show fanatic. If your primary reason for getting a VPN is to unblock streaming services from around the world, CyberGhost’s easy-to-use, optimized servers make it a top choice.

App experience

CyberGhost is designed with beginners in mind. Its main screen features a large power button, but its real strength lies in its specialized server lists.

iOS-specific features

The app has dedicated tabs for servers that are optimized for streaming. For example, instead of guessing which US server works with a specific service, you can just tap the “For Streaming” list and pick the server labeled “Optimized for Netflix US”. It takes all the guesswork out of the process, which I found incredibly helpful for catching my favorite shows while abroad.

Performance

Speeds are solid and very reliable, especially when using the optimized servers. The app uses the IKEv2 protocol by default, which is known for its stability on iOS, but also offers the speedy WireGuard protocol.

2.5. #5 – Private Internet Access (PIA)

Private Internet Access stands out with its commitment to transparency and its highly customizable app, appealing to privacy-focused users.

iOS App Rating

4.7 / 5

Key Protocol
WireGuard
OpenVPN

Simultaneous Connections

Unlimited

Unique Feature: 
100% open-source applications

PIA is for the privacy-conscious tech enthusiast. If you want granular control over your connection and value a provider with a long-standing, court-proven no-logs policy, PIA is an excellent and trustworthy choice.

App experience

PIA’s app is for the user who loves to customize. It offers more settings and technical options on its main screen than any other provider on this list. While this might be overwhelming for a beginner, it’s a paradise for tech enthusiasts.

iOS-specific features

You can fine-tune everything from the VPN protocol to the level of encryption. PIA also includes an excellent ad-blocker called MACE. A unique feature I appreciate is that its app code is 100% open-source, meaning anyone can inspect it for security vulnerabilities. This shows a huge commitment to transparency.

Performance

With a massive VPN server network, it’s easy to find a fast, uncongested server. Speeds using the WireGuard protocol are excellent, placing it right behind the top contenders.

3. Best VPN for iPhone (by category)

Not every iPhone user needs a VPN for the same reason. Choosing the right VPN depends on what you want most: Speed, streaming access, privacy, or battery life.

After testing each service on an iPhone 15 (speed, battery drain, connection stability, switching between Wi-Fi and 5G), these are the top picks for each specific use case. Here’s a quick comparison before we break down each category:

3.1. Best for streaming: CyberGhost

CyberGhost performs better than competitors when streaming on iPhone thanks to its dedicated “Streaming Optimized” servers. CyberGhost offers dedicated “Streaming Optimized” servers for platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer. This removes the guesswork -just pick the right server and stream. In our tests, Netflix US loaded in 3-4 seconds with no buffering, beating most competitors.

Why does CyberGhost lead this category

• Streaming-optimized servers for Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Disney+.
• Very low buffering time (3-4 seconds in tests).
• Large server network with locations matched to specific platforms.
• Stable performance on both Wi-Fi and 5G.
• Clean iOS app with quick server filtering.

3.2. Best for privacy: Private Internet Access (PIA)

PIA is the most transparent and community-audited VPN available for iPhone users. PIA is fully open-source, meaning its entire iOS app and VPN libraries are publicly audited by the community. It includes advanced features like Multi-Hop routing and MACE (ad and tracker blocking). If transparency is your priority, PIA is the most trustworthy option for iPhone. It effectively safeguards your online anonymity by ensuring no trace of your activity is left behind.

Why does Private Internet Access lead this category

• 100% open-source iOS app and VPN libraries.
• Independently verified no-logs policy
• Advanced privacy tools (MACE ad/tracker blocker, Multi-Hop).
• Highly customizable encryption settings.
• Proven track record in court for protecting user privacy.

3.3. Best for battery life: ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol is the most battery-efficient in our tests, designed specifically to be efficient on mobile devices. While streaming YouTube for one hour at 100% brightness, ExpressVPN used only 2% more battery than having no VPN enabled. It also reconnects instantly when you switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data.

Why does ExpressVPN lead this category

• Lowest battery drain in testing (+2% after 1 hour of YouTube).
• Lightway protocol reconnects instantly when switching networks.
• Minimal CPU usage → stable for all-day use.
• Very fast connection times (1-2 seconds).
• Works consistently across 5G, LTE, and public Wi-Fi.

3.4. Best for speed: NordVPN

NordVPN repeatedly ranked #1 in our performance tests on iPhone. Powered by NordLynx (its optimized WireGuard version), NordVPN delivered the fastest results:

• Baseline Wi-Fi: 350 Mbps
• NordVPN: 331 Mbps (only a 5% drop)

→ If you stream 4K video, download large files, or play mobile games, NordVPN is the top performer.

Why does NordVPN lead this category

• NordLynx (WireGuard-based) delivers the fastest speeds.
• Only ~5% speed loss vs baseline (350 → 331 Mbps).
• Excellent performance for 4K streaming and cloud gaming.
• Strong stability when switching between Wi-Fi and mobile data.
• Predictable speeds even at long-distance servers.

3.5. Best value: Surfshark

Surfshark is the best deal for iPhone users, especially families or multi-device users. This VPN allows unlimited devices, making it the best value for families or anyone with multiple Apple devices (iPhone + iPad + Mac). It has a clean UI, strong performance, and useful extras like CleanWeb ad-blocking and bypass mode.

Why does Surfshark lead this category

• Supports unlimited devices (unique among major VPNs).
• Strong performance and reliable speeds.
• CleanWeb ad-blocker included for free.
• Easy-to-use iOS app with quick toggles.
• Very competitive pricing for 2-year plans.

3.6. Best free option: Proton VPN (Free)

Proton VPN Free is the only free service we recommend for iPhone. This is the only reputable free VPN for iPhone with unlimited data. It’s not ideal for streaming, but it’s perfect for secure browsing, messaging, and staying protected on public Wi-Fi without paying anything.

Why does Proton VPN lead this category

• Unlimited data (rare for free VPNs).
• No ads, no trackers, no speed caps.
• Operated by a privacy-focused company in Switzerland.
• Great for secure browsing and messaging.
• Works well on public Wi-Fi networks.

4. Best VPN for iPhone (by use case)

Different tasks require different strengths from a VPN. Whether you’re streaming while traveling, gaming on 5G, or connecting to risky public Wi-Fi networks, here are the best iPhone VPNs for each real-world scenario.

4.1. Best for Netflix & streaming: CyberGhost

CyberGhost stands out for iPhone streaming thanks to its dedicated servers designed for specific platforms, making it the easiest option for accessing global libraries. This capability allows you to bypass stubborn geo-restrictions effectively, ensuring you can watch your favorite shows regardless of your location.

Why does CyberGhost lead this category

• One-click streaming servers for Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+.
• Consistently low buffer times (3–4 seconds).
• Stable on both Wi-Fi and 5G.
• Large global network optimized for media.
• Very easy to use on iOS.

4.2. Best for gaming (low ping): NordVPN

If you play mobile games on 5G or Wi-Fi, NordVPN offers the most stable and lowest-latency performance thanks to NordLynx.

Why does NordVPN lead this category

• Lowest ping impact in our real-world tests.
• Smooth server-switching while on mobile data.
• NordLynx protocol optimized for latency.
• Excellent performance for CoD Mobile, PUBG, and Wild Rift.
• Reliable even when switching between LTE ↔ Wi-Fi.

4.3. Best for public Wi-Fi: ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is the safest option when connecting your iPhone to airports, cafés, hotels, or other public hotspots.

Why does ExpressVPN lead this category

• Lightway reconnects instantly on unstable networks.
• Strong protection against DNS leaks/WebRTC leaks/IP leaks.
• Minimal CPU/Battery impact during long sessions.
• Great for secure banking, email, and messaging.
• Very fast connection start times (1-2 seconds).

4.4. Best for traveling abroad: Surfshark

Surfshark is ideal for travelers who need reliable access to home-region content and strong protection on foreign networks.

Why does Surfshark lead this category

• Large global server coverage.
• Reliable access to Netflix, local banking, and region-locked sites.
• Unlimited devices for travel with multiple gadgets.
• Strong privacy tools (CleanWeb, NoBorders mode).
• Stable performance on both slow and fast networks.

4.5. Best for work/university networks: PIA

PIA offers the configurability needed to get through restrictive campus or enterprise networks.

Why does PIA lead this category

• Adjustable encryption + protocol settings.
• Supports WireGuard and OpenVPN TCP/UDP.
• Great for bypassing VPN-blocking firewalls.
• MACE blocks ads and harmful scripts in school/work networks.
• Open-source transparency ensures safe use in sensitive environments.

Talk is cheap. Every VPN provider claims their app is the “fastest” and “most lightweight”. We decided to put those claims to the test. Instead of just taking their word for it, we set up our own mini-lab to gather real-world performance data.

To cut through the marketing noise, we used a single iPhone 15 running the latest version of iOS. We tested each leading VPN app under identical conditions, focusing on the modern protocols best suited for iOS – like Lightway, NordLynx (based on WireGuard), and IKEv2. Here’s what we found.

5.1. Speed test: Keeping up with your 5G

A VPN is useless if it slows your connection to a crawl. We ran multiple speed tests on a high-speed Wi-Fi network to measure the drop-off. The results were impressive.

5.2. Battery drain test: Will it last the day?

This was my biggest personal concern. The last thing I want is a background app silently killing my iPhone’s battery. To test this, we charged the iPhone to 100%, connected to a VPN, and streamed a 1-hour YouTube video at full brightness. Here’s the battery percentage drop we recorded:

• No VPN: 9% drop
• ExpressVPN: 11% drop
• NordVPN: 11% drop
• Surfshark: 12% drop

5.3. Connection time test: From tap to secure

When you need security, you need it now. A clumsy app that takes forever to connect is a deal-breaker. We timed how long it took from tapping the “Connect” button to getting a fully secured connection.

• ExpressVPN: 2.8 seconds
• NordVPN: 3.5 seconds
• Surfshark: 3.9 seconds

Our lab tests proved that modern VPNs are exceptionally well-optimized for iOS. The impact on your iPhone’s speed and battery life is minimal, while the security benefits are massive.

6. Does VPN drain iPhone battery?

Short answer: Yes, but only slightly. Modern VPNs are optimized for mobile devices, and the battery impact is surprisingly low if you use a reputable provider. Based on our tests on an iPhone 15 during 1 hour of YouTube streaming at 100% brightness:

• No VPN: 9% battery drain
• With VPN: 11-12% battery drain

6.1. When a VPN can drain more battery

A VPN might consume extra power in these situations:

• You keep the VPN on 24/7, especially over mobile data.
• Streaming HD or 4K video for long periods.
• Connecting to a server far from your actual location.
• Using older or heavy protocols (e.g., OpenVPN).
• Frequently switching between Wi-Fi ↔ 5G networks.
• Weak or unstable connectivity that forces constant reconnection.

6.2. How to reduce battery usage

To minimize battery impact on iPhone:

• Use modern protocols like Lightway, NordLynx, or WireGuard.
• Connect to a server geographically close.
• Allow auto-connect only on unsecured networks.
• Avoid OpenVPN unless necessary.

In practice, the battery difference is so small that most users won’t notice it, especially with newer iPhones.

7. Should you leave VPN on all the time on iPhone?

For most users, the answer is yes – keeping your VPN on 24/7 is recommended for privacy and security. A VPN encrypts everything your iPhone sends or receives, which protects you from ISP tracking, unsecured Wi-Fi networks, and background data leaks from apps. That said, there are a few scenarios where turning it off temporarily can make sense.

7.1. When you should keep your VPN on 24/7

You should leave your VPN enabled at all times if you:

• Use public Wi-Fi at cafés, airports, hotels, or coworking spaces.
• Want to prevent carriers or ISPs from logging your activity.
• Frequently access email, banking, or work accounts on mobile.
• Want to block trackers, ads, and unwanted profiling.
• Switch often between Wi-Fi and 5G networks.
• Prefer not to expose your real IP address to apps and websites.
• Live in a location with high online surveillance or intrusive ISPs.

Modern VPN protocols like Lightway, WireGuard, and NordLynx are optimized for constant use, so battery impact is minimal. Just ensure that your app’s kill switch is enabled so that your data remains safe even if the connection momentarily drops.

7.2. When you can turn it off

There are a few cases where disabling your VPN may provide better performance or convenience:

• Mobile gaming requires the lowest possible ping.
• Hotspot tethering, where the VPN reduces speeds for connected devices.
• Accessing local-smart-home devices that require local network visibility.
• When a specific app or website blocks VPN traffic.
• Troubleshooting slow speeds on certain networks.
• If you’re on a trusted home network and only need speed, not privacy.

Even in these cases, turning it off is optional – not required.

VPN on iPhone: Always On vs. Sometimes Off

8. Is VPN safe for iPhone?

Yes – a VPN is completely safe to use on an iPhone, and it can significantly improve your privacy as long as you choose a reputable provider. iOS already has strong built-in security (sandboxing, encrypted storage, secure network APIs), and a VPN adds an extra layer that protects every internet connection your device makes. However, not all VPNs are created equal, and some can actually put you at risk.

8.1. Why a VPN is safe on iPhone

A high-quality VPN enhances safety by:

• Encrypting all traffic from your apps and browser.
• Preventing ISPs, carriers, and Wi-Fi providers from tracking you.
• Hiding your real IP address from websites and advertisers.
• Protecting your data on public Wi-Fi (airports, cafés, hotels).
• Securing background connections from apps you don’t even open.
• Providing robust DNS leak protection to keep your browsing requests private.
• Using a kill switch to block internet access if the secured tunnel is interrupted.

iPhone + a reputable VPN = One of the safest mobile setups available.

8.2. When a VPN can be unsafe

A VPN becomes risky only when you use a low-quality or shady provider, especially free VPNs that rely on ads or data selling. Avoid VPNs that:

• Display ads inside the app.
• Collect browsing activity or device identifiers.
• Request odd permissions (photos, contacts, local network access).
• Have unclear ownership or no transparency page.
• Don’t offer a no-logs policy, or have never undergone a security audit.

Many “free” VPNs make money by logging your data, the exact thing a VPN should prevent.

8.3. How to choose a safe VPN for iPhone

ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, and Proton VPN are examples that meet these criteria.

9. VPN vs iCloud Private Relay: What’s the difference?

Many iPhone users assume that iCloud Private Relay works like a VPN, but it doesn’t. While both features help protect your privacy, they operate very differently and are designed for different purposes.

A VPN protects your entire device, while iCloud Private Relay protects only Safari browsing and hides your IP in a limited way. If you rely on apps like YouTube, Netflix, Instagram, TikTok, banking apps, or messaging apps, Private Relay won’t protect them.

9.1. What iCloud Private Relay does and doesn’t do

What iCloud Private Relay does

What iCloud Private Relay doesn't do

9.2. What a VPN does that Private Relay can’t

A VPN protects your entire iPhone, not just Safari. It encrypts all app traffic, hides your IP address everywhere, and allows you to choose a virtual location. This enables you to access global streaming libraries, secure public Wi-Fi connections, prevent ISP tracking, and stay private across every app you use. For full-device security and content access, a VPN provides comprehensive coverage that Private Relay simply wasn’t designed to offer.

A VPN is a complete privacy + security + access solution.

Private Relay is a Safari-only privacy enhancement.

10. How to choose the best VPN for your iPhone (Buying Guide)

Choosing a VPN for iPhone isn’t just about speed – it’s about finding a service that works seamlessly with iOS, uses efficient protocols, delivers strong privacy, and doesn’t drain your battery. Here are the key factors to evaluate before deciding which VPN is best for your device.

10.1. Battery efficiency

iPhones are extremely optimized, but VPNs can still consume extra power if they use heavy protocols. Look for services that support:

• Lightway (ExpressVPN)
• NordLynx (NordVPN)
• WireGuard (Surfshark, PIA, Proton)

These protocols use fewer CPU cycles and reconnect instantly, which keeps battery usage low when switching between Wi-Fi and 5G.

10.2. Real-world speed on Wi-Fi and mobile data

A VPN should not significantly slow your iPhone down. Good services typically lose under 10% of your baseline speed. Consider:

• Speed loss on nearby servers.
• Performance on long-distance servers.
• Stability when switching networks.
• Streaming quality (HD/4K playback without buffering).

10.3. iOS-specific features

A great iPhone VPN app should integrate seamlessly with the OS and support modern iOS capabilities such as:

• Home Screen and Lock Screen widgets.
• Siri Shortcuts.
• Auto-connect rules.
• Dark mode.
• Local network bypass/split tunneling (where supported)

These features make the VPN easier and faster to use in daily life.

10.4. Transparency and security standards

A trustworthy VPN must follow strong privacy practices:

• Proven no-logs policy.
• Independent third-party security audits.
• Clear ownership and jurisdiction.
• Strong encryption standards (AES-256 or ChaCha20).
• Advanced routing options like multi-hop (Double VPN).

Built-in kill switch (important for unstable networks). Always ensure the app includes a functional kill switch to protect your identity during sudden disconnections. This ensures your data remains private even if the provider is pressured by authorities or targeted by attackers.

10.5. Streaming and geo-unblocking ability

If you want access to international content while traveling, choose a VPN known for reliable unblocking:

• Works with Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Disney+.
• Dedicated streaming servers (like CyberGhost).
• Stable access on both mobile data and Wi-Fi.
• Low buffer and fast server switching.

Not all VPNs can bypass geo-blocking, even some premium ones.

10.6. Pricing and number of devices

Finally, consider how many devices you want to protect:

• Surfshark and PIA offer unlimited connections.
• ExpressVPN and NordVPN offer 6-10 devices.
• Proton offers fewer devices on lower tiers.

If you have multiple Apple devices (iPhone + iPad + Mac) or a family plan, unlimited connections can save a lot of money. Also, consider whether the provider offers 24/7 live chat customer support to help you troubleshoot any iOS-specific issues.

11. How to install and set up a VPN on iPhone

There are two main ways to set up a VPN on your iPhone: Using the provider’s App Store app or configuring it manually through iOS settings. The App Store method is recommended for most users, while manual setup is useful only in specific situations.

11.1. Install via App Store (Recommended for most users)

This is the simplest and most secure way to install a VPN on your iPhone. All major providers offer dedicated iOS apps designed for quick setup and full-featured protection.

How to install a VPN from the App Store

1. Open the App Store on your iPhone. Search for your chosen VPN (e.g., ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark).

2. Download and open the app. Sign in with your account.

3. When prompted, tap Allow to let the app add a VPN configuration.

6. Tap Connect to start protecting your iPhone.

Why this method is better

Using the App Store app gives you access to the VPN’s full capabilities. These include auto-connect, a highly responsive kill switch, custom protocols, leak protection, and widgets. You also get Siri Shortcuts and optimized servers for streaming or gaming. The app updates automatically, switches servers more smoothly, and uses energy-efficient protocols like Lightway, NordLynx, or WireGuard, making it significantly more secure and convenient than manual configuration.

11.2. Manual VPN configuration on iPhone

iOS allows you to add a VPN profile manually without installing an app. This method works well for corporate or school VPNs, or when you need a simple IKEv2 or IPSec connection.

How to configure a VPN manually using iOS settings

1. Go to Settings → General → VPN

2. Tap Add VPN Configuration and choose the protocol (IKEv2, L2TP, or IPSec).

3. Enter the server address, remote ID, username, password, and any certificates required. Tap Done, then toggle the VPN on from Settings.

Limitations of manual setup

Manual configuration lacks most advanced security features found in native apps. There is no kill switch, no auto-connect based on Wi-Fi network, no streaming-optimized servers, no WireGuard/Lightway/NordLynx, and no built-in leak protection. You must switch servers manually, and performance is often weaker because iOS limits what manual profiles can do. For most users, it feels outdated and unnecessarily restrictive compared to the App Store method.

12. Best free VPNs for iPhone

Free VPNs are risky on iPhone – most of them collect data, inject ads, or place strict limits on speed and bandwidth. However, there are a few reputable providers that offer genuinely safe and useful free plans. These are the only ones we recommend.

1. Proton VPN (Best overall free VPN for iPhone)

Proton VPN is the only trustworthy free service that includes unlimited data, making it ideal for everyday browsing or protecting yourself on public Wi-Fi.

Why it's recommend

Limitations

2. hide.me (Best for temporary or occasional use)

hide.me’s free plan offers solid performance and strong security, making it a good choice if you need short-term or occasional VPN protection.

Why it's recommend

Limitations

13. Free iPhone VPNs to avoid

While a few reputable free VPNs exist, the majority of “free VPN” apps on the App Store are unsafe. Many are owned by unknown companies, operate from jurisdictions with weak privacy laws, or make money by collecting and selling your data. These services can expose you to the high risks that a VPN is supposed to prevent.

13.1. Free VPNs with ads or tracking SDKs

Any VPN that shows ads is already a red flag. Advertising SDKs can collect device identifiers, browsing behavior, and network information, which defeats the purpose of using a VPN for privacy.

Risks to you

• Ad trackers collect personal data.
• Possible injection of third-party scripts.
• Reduced privacy and higher security risks.

13.2. Free VPNs with unclear ownership

Dozens of free VPN apps on iOS are operated by companies with no transparency: No website, no team page, and no published privacy audits.

Risks to you

• Unknown data handling practices
• Hidden data sharing agreements
• Higher likelihood of logging or selling user activity

14. FAQ about the best VPN for iPhone

We get a lot of questions about how VPNs work, specifically with iPhones. To help clear things up, here are quick, direct answers to the most common queries we receive.

15. Conclusion

Your iPhone is a fortress designed to protect your personal data, but its connection to the internet is the one bridge that needs a dedicated guard. Without a VPN, your online activities are exposed on public Wi-Fi and visible to your internet provider. Choosing the right service ensures that your digital life is as secure and private as the device you hold in your hand.

At Safelyo, we believe securing your digital life shouldn’t be complicated. By selecting a trusted provider from this guide, you’re not just buying an app; you’re investing in your online privacy. Explore our full list of the best VPN services, download your chosen app from the App Store, and enjoy a safer, more open internet in seconds.