A virtual private network, commonly known as a VPN, is essential for protecting your privacy and security on Android devices. With VPNs for Android, you can mask your online activities from your Internet service provider (ISP) and other third parties by encrypting your connection and routing your traffic through a remote server.
VPNs are also helpful for bypassing geographical restrictions on websites and streaming services. Whether you want to access content only available in another country or keep your browsing private on public WiFi networks, VPNs for Android can help safeguard your online experience.
To help you find the right VPN for your needs, we extensively evaluated dozens of options and tested the top nine VPN providers on Android devices. Here are our picks for the best VPNs for Android based on speed, security features, customer support, pricing, and ease of use.
ExpressVPN – Best Overall Android VPN
ExpressVPN is our top overall pick for Android thanks to its excellent performance, robust security features, and user-friendly apps. The provider has consistently delivered fast speeds in our tests and offers robust encryption protocols like OpenVPN and Lightway to keep your connection private.
ExpressVPN also gets high marks for its no-logs policy, which independent audits have verified. With an extensive global network of 3,000+ servers across 94 countries, you’ll have no trouble accessing blocked content from anywhere. ExpressVPN unblocked all primary streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer in our tests.
The ExpressVPN Android app is one of the best-designed VPN apps available. It’s simple to use with an intuitive interface and quick connect button, yet still provides advanced options for experienced users. ExpressVPN also offers 24/7 live chat support if you need any help.
While ExpressVPN isn’t the most affordable option, it’s well worth it for the quality you get. TechRadar readers can get three months free with a 12-month plan, too. With its speed, security features, and excellent apps, ExpressVPN is our top choice for protecting your Android experience.
NordVPN – Best Value Android VPN
NordVPN is one of the most popular VPN providers worldwide thanks to its great value, speedy performance, and robust security. The service has over 5,500 servers in 60 countries, so you’ll find a fast connection no matter where you are.
NordVPN also offers advanced protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN and strong AES-256 encryption to keep your data private. Its no-logging policy has been verified by independent audits, too. We were impressed by NordVPN’s ability to unblock significant streaming services in our tests.
The NordVPN Android app is easy to use with quick connection and favourite server options. It also provides extra security features like a built-in ad blocker. NordVPN offers 24/7 live chat support if you run into any issues, too.
While the interface takes time for newcomers, NordVPN is excellent value, with plans starting from just $3.49 a month. You also get six simultaneous connections, more than most competitors provide. For the features you get at this price, NordVPN is an excellent value choice for Android users.
Surfshark – Best Budget Android VPN
Surfshark is our top pick for budget-conscious Android users thanks to its low prices and robust feature set. Plans start from just $2.49 a month, making it one of the most affordable VPN options on the market.
Despite the low cost, Surfshark still delivers fast speeds on par with bigger competitors. It uses AES-256 encryption and offers protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard. Surfshark also gets high marks for its strict no-logging policy and network of over 3,200 servers worldwide.
The Surfshark Android app is beginner-friendly with an easy, quick connect button. It also provides extra features like ad blocking, VPN kill switch, and unlimited simultaneous connections – a huge benefit over most competitors. Surfshark unblocked all major streaming services in our tests, too.
While Surfshark’s live chat support hours could be better, it offers 24/7 email assistance. For the price and features you get, Surfshark is an excellent budget choice and our top pick for value on Android.
ProtonVPN – Best Free Android VPN
ProtonVPN stands out for its generous free plan that offers unlimited data on a small selection of servers. While the free tier limits you to three locations, it’s still an impressive option for essential VPN use without spending a dime.
ProtonVPN’s paid Plus and Visionary plans to unlock a much more extensive global server network for faster speeds. You can also access advanced features like its Secure Core servers for added anonymity and VPN port forwarding.
The ProtonVPN Android app is well-designed, with simple navigation and quick connection. It provides all the standard VPN features you’d expect, too. ProtonVPN uses strong AES-256 encryption and OpenVPN/IKEv2 protocols to keep your connection private.
ProtonVPN is a great choice if you value privacy and transparency, as all its apps are open source. While the free tier has limited functionality, it’s still one of the only free VPN options that doesn’t compromise security or privacy. ProtonVPN is our top recommendation if you want basic VPN protection without spending.
Mullvad – Best Android VPN for Anonymity
Mullvad is an excellent choice for Android users who value online privacy and anonymity. The provider has a strict no-logging policy verified by independent audits and accepts anonymous cash payments.
Mullvad offers fast connections to its global network of over 500 servers. It uses OpenVPN, WireGuard and IKEv2 protocols with AES-256-GCM encryption to keep your data private.
The Mullvad Android app is well-designed, with simple navigation and quick connect options. It provides all the standard VPN features and extra privacy layers like anonymous account creation.
Mullvad stands out for its transparency – all software is open source and independently audited regularly. The provider also has a generous five-device allowance. While not the most affordable long-term subscription plans, Mullvad offers weekly, monthly, and annual subscription plans.
For Android users focused on true anonymity online, Mullvad is an excellent choice. Its strict no-logging policy and transparency make it one of the best VPNs for privacy.
How to Choose the Best VPNs for Android
With so many VPN options, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Here are some essential factors to consider when comparing VPNs for Android providers:
Server Locations – Consider a service with servers globally for broad unblocking access. Popular options have servers in the US, UK, Canada, Europe and Asia-Pacific regions.
Encryption – All reputable VPNs use AES-256 encryption as the substantial standard. Some also offer additional layers like OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec and WireGuard protocols.
Speed – Look for providers with fast speeds across different locations for smooth streaming and browsing. Test reviews can give you an idea of real-world performance.
Device Limit – Check the number of simultaneous connections allowed, as most people use VPNs on multiple devices. Unlimited options provide the best value.
Logging Policy – Look for a zero-logging claim and choose providers with independent audits verifying this for true anonymity.
Platform Support – Check that the VPN works seamlessly on Android and other devices like Windows, Mac, iOS, and Linux.
Cost – Consider both monthly and annual plans. Cheaper options sometimes mean lower quality or security.
Ease of Use – Simple, intuitive apps are best for beginners. Advanced users may need extra features like port forwarding.
Customer Support – Reputable VPNs offer 24/7 live chat and email assistance if you need help setting up or have issues.
Money-Back Guarantee – Choose services with 30-day refund policies so you can thoroughly test before committing long-term.
These factors will help you pick the best VPNs for Android tailored to your specific security, privacy and streaming needs within your budget. Always research thoroughly before signing up.
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Conclusion
A VPN is essential for boosting online privacy and security when using Android devices. Our top picks, like ExpressVPN, NordVPN and Surfshark, offer best-in-class features, performance, and customer support tailored for mobile use.
By choosing a reputable provider, you can safely access blocked content, use public WiFi hotspots, and mask your online activities from snoopers. A VPN is a worthwhile investment to safeguard your online experience on Android.
