7 Best Android VPNs in 2023 — Fast, Safe & User Friendly

Finding a VPN you can trust to protect your Android is difficult. Hundreds of fake VPN apps are displayed on the Google Play Store and can harm your Android with malware. In addition, many of the ones I looked at had reviews that said they kept crashing.

My team and I tested over 60 Android VPNs to find the safest ones that protect your online privacy. We also tested each to ensure they have fast speeds, top-notch security features, and reliable global networks. Plus, the VPNs on this list are user-friendly and work great for streaming on all Android devices, Android 13 included.

ExpressVPN is my number 1 choice for Android. It has high-speed servers in 94+ countries and military-grade security features to protect your device against online threats. It also has a money-back guarantee, so you can try ExpressVPN on your Android device without risk. If you’re not 100% satisfied, you have 30 days to claim a full refund.

Try ExpressVPN for Android >>

Best VPNs for Android – Full Analysis (Updated 2023)

1. ExpressVPN — Secure Android App to Keep You Safe Online

Editor’s Choice Editor’s Choice Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Tested July 2023

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

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Try ExpressVPN >

www.ExpressVPN.com

ExpressVPN empowers Android users to browse the internet securely and anonymously using virtually impenetrable military-grade encryption and perfect forward secrecy. The latter ensures any intercepted key is useless for decrypting your data because it's changed regularly. It also adheres to an audited and verified no-logs policy, ensuring no data gets stored or shared. Plus, ExpressVPN's location in the British Virgin Islands means it's beyond the reach of the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance's data-sharing agreement — your data is safe even from governments.

I liked that the kill switch is on by default, instantly cutting off internet access if the VPN connection drops, preventing potential data leaks. There's also IP/DNS leak protection, safeguarding against potential vulnerabilities that may expose your browsing habits. I tested 15 ExpressVPN servers for leaks and didn't find any.

It's also trialing various new Android-specific features to help enhance protection on your device. These include Privacy Summary, showing the percentage of time the VPN was connected during the week. Security Assitant provides actionable recommendations on further protecting your Android device. The Data Breach Alert feature alerts you when a data breach involves your email address.

ExpressVPN was the fastest VPN I tested, making it an excellent choice for streaming and gaming. To get the best speeds, I recommend using the LightwayVPN protocol — it's designed to drain less battery, so it works great on Android devices. My average download speed went from 117.69 Mbps to 107.54 Mbps connected to a server in India, only a 9% drop.

You can choose Automatic, and ExpressVPN will select the best protocol for your connection

I also found its Android app very easy to use. With its Smart Location feature, you only have to tap once to automatically connect to the fastest server, which I appreciated because sorting through server lists can be time-consuming.

ExpressVPN subscriptions are expensive at $6.67/month. However, you can save up to 49% when using one of its frequent deals. I even got 3 months of service free when I signed up for the long-term plan.

There’s also a 30-day money-back guarantee backing all subscriptions, which I have tested myself. I contacted its 24/7 live chat to cancel and request a refund. After answering a few quick questions about my experience, the rep approved my refund. I had my money back in my bank account after 3 days.

Useful Features

• TrustedServer technology. These RAM-based servers delete all data during reboot, including the operating system. Wiping the servers guarantees there’s no record of your online activities.
• Threat Manager. This feature prevents Android apps from sharing your online activity with third-party trackers. It also blocks malicious sites.
• Split tunneling. You can choose which apps use your VPN connection. This gives you the flexibility to optimize your Android experience. For example, you can use your local IP for online banking while simultaneously using the VPN for streaming.
• App and website shortcuts. This handy option lets you launch other apps from a shortcut within ExpressVPN's app after establishing a VPN connection, so you don't have to waste time clicking back to the home screen first.

Try ExpressVPN for Android >>

2. CyberGhost — Optimized Servers for Streaming and Torrenting on Android

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

CyberGhost’s streaming-optimized servers make it an excellent choice for watching your favorite shows and movies on Android. These specialty servers make it harder for streaming sites to ban IPs by randomly shuffling them each time someone connects. CyberGhost reliably unblocked Netflix US, Hulu, Max (HBO), and Amazon Prime on my first try. You can use its regular servers for streaming, but I found optimized ones faster — never reducing my speeds by more than 12% while streaming.

Type the streaming service you want into the search bar to quickly find it

Its WiFi Protection feature is handy if you regularly use public networks. You can configure it to automatically connect whenever you join a new network. CyberGhost immediately connected me to one of its servers when I joined an open network at my local cafe, even though I forgot to switch the VPN on.

Like ExpressVPN, CyberGhost offers all the security must-haves to protect your privacy, like 256-bit encryption, a no-logs policy, and an automatic kill switch. It also has a built-in content blocker for malicious sites, trackers, and ads. Switching on this feature prevents you from accidentally downloading dangerous files. Plus, it blocked most of the ads I usually see on my social media feeds.

One drawback is its expensive monthly plans. However, long-term subscriptions are affordable, starting at just $2.19/month. It also has a 45-day money-back guarantee that lets you try CyberGhost risk-free. I requested a refund through the 24/7 live chat option and got my PayPal wallet reimbursed within 5 days.

Useful Features

• Dedicated IPs. CyberGhost offers dedicated IP addresses as an optional feature on its Android app. This gives you an IP address that is exclusively yours, reducing the chance of VPN blocks.
• Multiprotocol support. The Android app lets you choose between WireGuard and OpenVPN protocol, allowing you to select the most suitable protocol for your needs — speed vs. robust protection.
• User-friendly. With CyberGhost's Android app, you can connect to a server with just 1 tap. It has a straightforward interface, with a prominent on/off button for quick VPN activation.
• Random port. When you enable this feature, CyberGhost selects a random port for your connection, making it more difficult for third parties to identify and intercept your traffic.

Try CyberGhost for Android >>

3. Private Internet Access — Powerful Ad Blocker to Prevent Malware Infecting Your Android Device

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try Private Internet Access >

www.PrivateInternetAccess.com

Private Internet Access's (PIA) MACE feature protects your Android device by detecting malicious apps at the DNS level and preventing them from downloading. You can comfortably visit any website without the risk of malware and spyware infecting your device. MACE also blocks all kinds of ads, giving you uninterrupted browsing, faster page load times, and reduced data usage.

Go to Settings, then Privacy, to access MACE

Its Android app lets you choose between 2 encryption levels — 128-bit (faster because there are fewer layers of encryption) and 256-bit (gold-standard protection). During my tests, AES 128-bit with the OpenVPN protocol gave me the best speeds. However, the WireGuard protocol is generally faster since it uses fewer system resources, which also uses less of your device’s battery life.

Even though settings can be a bit complicated for beginners, you'll soon get the hang of it. And, like CyberGhost, you can configure PIA to automatically connect when you join an unfamiliar network, such as public WiFi. I recommend setting the app to connect automatically when you switch on your Android device or launch a specific app so you're always protected.

PIA gives you better deals with long-term subscriptions. For instance, if you choose its longest plan, you can get PIA for as little as $2.03/month. It accepts most payment forms, including cryptocurrency. Plus, there's a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Useful Features

• Private DNS. PIA uses its own DNS servers to ensure your IP and browsing activity are always private. You also have the option to configure your own custom DNS.
• Port forwarding. Its Android app supports port forwarding, which adds a layer of security by restricting how external devices access your home network.
• Use small packets. You can turn on this feature when connected to unstable mobile networks to improve the connection and reduce mobile data usage.
• Kill switch. PIA also has a kill switch on its Android app, which ensures that your IP remains hidden if your VPN connection drops unexpectedly.

Try PIA for Android >>

4. NordVPN — RAM-Only Servers to Maintain our Data Privacy on Android

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try NordVPN >

www.nordvpn.com

By employing RAM-only servers, NordVPN ensures your Android activity gets deleted from its servers after each reboot. This significantly minimizes the possibility of third parties gaining access to your data. Plus, it has an audited no-logs policy, and it's based in the privacy-friendly Panama, which further strengthens this point since it doesn't collect, store, or share any of its users' data.

Pick Onion over VPN if you use the Tor browser on your Android device

Although a little slower than ExpressVPN, it's still incredibly fast on Android, thanks to its NordLynx protocol. This proprietary protocol runs on very few lines of code. When I tested NordVPN with NordLynx, it reduced my speeds by only 9% connected to a nearby server in Germany. You also have the option to let the app recommend the best protocol for your mobile connection, or you can choose between OpenVPN and IKEv2/IPSec.

The Android app also comes with Threat Protection Lite, which protects your device from malicious sites. It does this by filtering domains that host malware and ads, so there’s no risk of accidentally or unknowingly downloading apps that harm your device.

On the downside, it took a little while for the VPN to connect to a server when I used multiple devices simultaneously. However, once connected, I had no issues. All plans are also covered by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can test NordVPN on your Android device risk-free.

Useful Features

• Tapjacking protection. This feature warns you whenever an app adds a screen overlay on your Android device, preventing malicious apps from tricking you into completing an unintended action.
• Metered connection. Switching this on restricts the data used on downloads and other background processes. This is very useful when using a mobile network with data limitations.
• Meshnet. You can create a secure network with other Android devices to safely share files and play multiplayer games.
• Double VPN. These servers encrypt your traffic twice and tunnel it through 2 servers, making it virtually impossible for anyone to trace your online activities.

Try NordVPN for Android >>

5. Surfshark — Intuitive Android App That Makes It Easy to Stay Safe Online

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try Surfshark >

www.surfshark.com

Surfsharks' user-friendly Android app lets you connect in 1 click or quickly change any settings to fit your needs. During my tests, its Quick-connect feature automatically connected me to the fastest server based on my location. You can also see your most recently used locations or favorite ones you use daily. The settings are neatly organized in a separate tab and concisely explained, allowing you to easily adapt the VPN to your liking.

You can pause your connection to bypass the VPN for a short while

It protects your data with AES 256-bit encryption and a kill switch. Aside from the regular kill switch, there’s also an alternative known as the Android native kill switch to prevent IP leaks. This one cuts your internet access for all the apps on your Android device, even the bypassed ones (using the Bypasser, aka split tunneling).

A unique advanced feature is its Override GPS location, which matches your GPS location to your VPN location. This comes in handy to ensure that your VPN connection is never exposed due to the GPS information on your Android.

One minor drawback is that Surfshark is based in the Netherlands, a 9 Eyes Alliance country. So its headquarters aren’t ideal for privacy. But, it adheres to a strict no-logs policy recently audited to prove that it never collects or shares data.

Useful Features

• 30-day money-back guarantee. Surfshark gives first-time subscribers a full refund during the cancellation period, allowing you to see if it’s for you before committing long-term.
• Unlimited simultaneous connections. You can protect all your devices without having to log in and out. My speed remained consistent even when connecting multiple devices at once.
• Dedicated IP. This feature gives you access to an IP address that’s exclusively yours. A dedicated IP is very useful to avoid getting blocked by apps and websites.
• CleanWeb. Protects your Android device from malicious sites, trackers, and ads. However, this didn’t work as well as NordVPN’s ad blocker did for me.

Try Surfshark for Android >>

6. IPVanish — Protect All Your Android Devices With Multiple Simultaneous Connections

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Router Smart TV More

Try IPVanish VPN >

www.IPVanishVPN.com

IPVanish allows you to connect as many devices as you want without affecting performance. However, I suggest using the WreGuard protocol (OpenVPN and IKEv2 are also available) for the best speeds. I connected 9 different devices in my tests, including my Windows laptop, Android TV, and Samsung Galaxy S23 — I could stream YouTube videos and play PUBG Mobile simultaneously without buffering.

Its Android app is straightforward, providing flexibility to tailor your experience. The IPVanish website offers an APK file if you want to avoid using Google Play. The site also gives detailed instructions on downloading, installing, and customizing app settings, such as the kill switch. You'll have no problem downloading and setting it up on your Android.

Servers are alphabetically organized by country, and you can choose city-level, too

It uses top-notch security features to protect you while using your Android. Like ExpresVPN, it combines perfect forward secrecy with 256-bit encryption. There's also IP/DNS leak protection to ensure your information doesn't accidentally get exposed.

Unfortunately, it doesn’t accept crypto as a payment method, which I prefer for added anonymity online. However, IPVanish doesn’t log any information about what you do while connected to its servers, so you can browse with complete peace of mind.

Useful Features

• Money-back guarantee. If you sign up for at least a year, you get up to 30 days to test IPVanish out risk-free.
• LAN access. This allows your Android device to communicate with other devices on your local network without going through the VPN. All external traffic still goes through the VPN server.
• Connect on launch. You can set IPVanish to launch and connect to a server immediately after your Android device starts, so you’re alway protected.
• Obfuscation. Turning on Scramble makes your VPN traffic appear like regular traffic, allowing you to browse freely in places that normally block VPNs. However, this feature is only available when using the OpenVPN protocol.

Try IPVanish for Android >>

7. PrivateVPN — Privacy-Focused to Keep Your Android Activity From Getting Tracked

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Router Smart TV More

Try PrivateVPN >

www.privatevpn.com

PrivateVPN is an excellent choice if your primary concern is keeping your Android traffic private. I checked its zero-logs policy and found it to be trustworthy. Additionally, it has DNS and IPv6 leak protection. This prevents your ISP from accidentally seeing your DNS requests and websites from seeing your real IP. When I tested PrivatevPN on ipv6leak.com, there weren’t any leaks.

Its Stealth VPN feature is essential if your network typically blocks VPNs, like at work or school. Your ISP or network admin will not know you’re using a VPN. With this enabled, you can even use PrivateVPN in regions that block VPNs, such as China, Egypt, and the Middle East.

Go to the VPN settings tab to find Stealth VPN

While it's slower than the other VPNs on this list, PrivateVPN gave me consistent speeds for uninterrupted streaming and browsing. I didn't experience buffering while streaming on YouTube, Netflix, and Amazon Prime Video. However, I had some lag when playing Call of Duty Mobile.

Compared to the other VPNs, PrivateVPN has a smaller server network. Fortunately, its servers are spread worldwide, and I could reliably access my accounts while traveling.

PrivateVPN also comes with a hassle-free money-back guarantee. If you're not completely satisfied after testing it on your Android, you can claim a full refund within 30 days of purchase.

Useful Features

• P2P support. All PrivateVPN servers support P2P file sharing, so it’s a great choice if you regularly torrent on Android.
• Encryption level customization. PrivateVPN’s Android app lets you choose between AES 256-bit and 128-bit encryption. AES 256-bit gives you rock-solid security, while 128-bit encryption is slightly faster.
• Multilingual support. PrivateVPN supports 10+ popular languages, so you can easily change to one you’re more comfortable with if English isn’t your first language.

Try PrivateVPN for Android >>

Quick Comparison Table: Android VPN Features

To make it easier to choose the best Android VPN for your needs, I've created a table comparing the main features of each one. I focused on speed, free trials, APK file availability, and simultaneous device connections.

Try ExpressVPN for Android >>

Tips on Choosing the Best VPN for Android

When seeking a reliable VPN for Android, it is crucial to prioritize strong security, fast speeds, and reliability. The VPNs listed below were carefully selected based on these essential criteria. Here is a breakdown of the key factors to consider:

• Powerful security. At a minimum, choose a VPN with AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and DNS/IP leak protection to keep your Android data safe. Many of the VPNs on my list also have a malicious site blocker.
• Privacy protection. Make sure your chosen VPN follows a strict no-logs policy. It’s even better if they conduct independent audits and transparency reports and are based outside the 5/9/14 Eyes jurisdiction.
• User-friendly Android apps. Make sure the Android apps are easy to install and use. Look for features like one-click connect, well-organized server lists, and a search bar.
• Fast speeds. High-speed servers help reduce delays when streaming, gaming, browsing, and torrenting on your Android. Choose a VPN with optimized security protocols, like Lightway and WireGuard.
• Extensive server network. VPNs with many servers worldwide give you access to your favorite content from anywhere. Additionally, you’re less likely to experience server overcrowding.
• Ability to unblock streaming services. I only listed VPNs that can access all the most popular streaming sites on Android.
• Hassle-free money-back guarantee. Look for VPNs with a free trial or, even better, a risk-free money-back guarantee. This way, you can confidently test the VPN on your Android.
• Reliable customer support. It’s best if the service offers a 24/7 live chat feature in the Android app. I tested each VPN for the quality of its customer service — regardless of the method, they all replied within 24 hours.

Try ExpressVPN for Android >>

How to Download Android VPN APK Files

The safest way to enable APK installation on your Android device is directly from the VPN's website. Below is a simple step-by-step guide:

1. Choose a VPN. I recommend a trusted VPN provider with native Android apps, like ExpressVPN.
2. Allow installation of Unknown Sources. Go to your device's settings to find Security (or Security & Privacy) and switch on the Unknown Sources option. This allows you to install apps from sources other than the Google Play Store.
3. Go to the official website. Via your Android browser, visit the website and find the Android app. Click on Download APK. The download should start automatically.
4. Install the ExpressVPN APK. Once downloaded, tap on the notification of the downloaded file or find it in your Downloads app or folder, and tap on it. This will start the installation process.
5. Follow the prompts. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the app. Once the installation is complete, you can start using ExpressVPN.
6. Turn off Unknown Sources. Once you're done installing your VPN's APK, it's a good security practice to go back to your settings and turn off Unknown Sources to protect your device.

Android VPNs You Should Avoid

Unfortunately, not all VPNs can be trusted. Some are notorious for serving users with ads, while others could actually compromise your privacy and security rather than enhance it. Here are some examples of VPNs with shady policies I encountered during my tests:

• Betternet. This service tracks your Android use with cookies and bombards you with ads. It also logs tons of identifiable user data, including your location, so you're never truly anonymous.
• SuperVPN. This is a free VPN that claims to offer unlimited bandwidth and fast connection speeds. However, it has been found to contain malware and could potentially compromise your device's security.
• CloudVPN. It offers unlimited bandwidth to grab your attention but collaborates with third parties to promote ads. It also states in its policy that it stores cookies and collects users’ personal information, device data, and IP addresses.
• Thunder VPN. This service is based in China, which is known for its strict internet censorship and surveillance. It is also unclear how Thunder VPN is able to offer its services for free, raising concerns about its business model and potential data harvesting practices.
• Opera. This is a free VPN for Android browsers, but it’s not secure. Its privacy policy even states that it tracks you with an anonymous ID. It collects data about your device, including the OS, feature usage, configurations, and hardware specifications.
• Hola. This VPN does not encrypt your traffic. Instead, it runs on a P2P network that switches your IP address with another user’s. This puts you at risk of being linked to illegal activities you had nothing to do with. It also logs tons of customer data and is known to sell users’ bandwidth.
• VPN Master. Another free VPN that has been found to contain malware. Plus, it has a history of misleading users with false claims about its security and privacy features.

FAQs on VPNs for Android

Which VPN works best for Android TV?

ExpressVPN is the best choice because it has a native app for Android and gives you the best speeds for streaming. It’s very easy to set up on your Android TV, too. Plus, it’s compatible with other devices you connect to your TV, such as Nvidia Shield, Chromecast, and more. Even if an app is unavailable for your TV, ExpressVPN has great router support, so you can connect with any device.

Do I need a VPN for my Android phone?

No, but using a VPN on your Android phone is a good way to enhance your security and privacy. Additionally, a VPN can help you bypass geo-restrictions to access your accounts while traveling abroad. It’s also a great way to protect your data from potential security threats when using public WiFi networks. However, you only get these benefits if you choose a reliable VPN provider.

Why won't the VPN unblock sites on my Android?

This commonly happens when the service you’re trying to access detects you’re using a VPN. It can also happen when the VPN IP has been previously put on a blocklist. The best way to avoid such problems is to use a VPN with obfuscation, like ExpressVPN. This feature makes your VPN traffic appear normal to easily get around VPN blocks.

If the problem remains, disconnect the VPN and connect to another server. This will give you a new IP that’s likely to work. Alternatively, restart your Android device and reconnect the VPN. If it still doesn’t work, contact customer support for further assistance.

Can I use a free VPN for Android?

Yes, but it’s not always safe. The risks simply aren't worth the few extra bucks you save monthly. Plenty of reputable VPNs offer a money-back guarantee or a free trial for you to test them out on Android.

Many so-called free VPNs on Google Play are fake. They're created for the sole purpose of hacking your Android or infecting it with malware. Even legitimate free VPNs compromise your speed and limit bandwidth and security features. Others have server limitations that make them virtually useless.

Does Android have a built-in VPN?

Yes, Android does have a built-in VPN feature. Starting from Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) and later versions, the operating system provides native support for VPN functionality. However, it offers limited features and is less user-friendly than dedicated VPN apps. This can also result in weaker privacy protections. A premium third-party VPN typically offers better security, ease of use, and comprehensive customer support.

Can you use a VPN on Android TV Box?

Yes, you can use a VPN on an Android TV Box. To do so, you will need to download and install a VPN app from the Google Play Store or sideload it onto your device. Once you have installed the VPN app, you can log in and connect to a server of your choice.

How safe is VPN on Android?

Using a VPN on Android can significantly enhance your online safety and privacy, provided you choose a reliable and trusted VPN service. A VPN encrypts your data, which makes it unreadable to anyone who might intercept it, such as hackers or any potential eavesdroppers on a public WiFi network. VPNs also mask your IP address, making your online actions hard to trace and providing you with anonymity.

However, while a VPN increases your online security and privacy, it is not a 100% guarantee. For example, a VPN can't protect you from phishing attacks or malware (unless it has a built-in malware protection feature) if you click on a harmful link or download a malicious file.

Will a VPN slow down my Android device?

Using a VPN on your Android device may cause some speed reduction, but how much it slows down depends on several factors, including the distance to the server you connect to and the VPN protocol you're using. However, a high-quality VPN will typically have minimal impact on your internet speeds, and you may not notice a difference during most activities. If you're using an Android phone, choose a VPN that won't drain your battery, like ExpressVPN.

Get the Best VPN for Android

Finding a safe and trustworthy VPN for your Android device can be challenging with so many options. The Android VPNs on this list offer strong security and privacy features that protect your data. They’re also user-friendly and have extra perks, such as blocking ads, bypassing geo-restrictions, and providing WiFi protection.

My top recommendation for Android is ExpressVPN. Its powerful security measures prevent anyone from spying on your online activity. Plus, it’s the fastest VPN I’ve tested, so you can enjoy uninterrupted streaming, torrenting, and gaming on your Android device. You can also try ExpressVPN risk-free since it has a 30-day money-back guarantee.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs for Android...

Rank

Provider

Our Score

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1

9.8 /10

Save 49%!

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2

9.8 /10

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3

9.6 /10

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4

9.4 /10

Save 66%!

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5

9.2 /10

Save 82%!

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