5 Best VPNs for iPad in 2023 — Streaming, Gaming, and Privacy

It can be hard to find a reliable VPN for iOS — some don’t have native apps for the operating system and require complicated manual installation. Others can be too slow for streaming or even unsafe to use.

Plus, there aren’t many VPNs for iPad that are powerful enough to help you bypass geo-restrictions and access all your favorite international content.

I tested 50+ VPNs to find the best app for my iPad. The shortlisted VPNs are compatible across multiple iPad generations. Each one is capable of unblocking your favorite movies and shows on platforms like Hulu, DAZN, and HBO Max without interruptions. They also offer great security features which keep you safe online — even on public WiFi networks.

My top recommendation is ExpressVPN. It offers an easy-to-use iPad app and has lightning-fast speeds for smooth gaming and streaming. The extensive server network also helps you unblock your favorite services like Netflix US or BBC iPlayer from anywhere. You can try ExpressVPN with confidence as it's backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. So, it’s easy to get a refund if you’re unsatisfied with the service.

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The Best VPNs for iPad — Full Analysis (Updated in 2023)

My recommended VPNs offer beginner-friendly iOS apps compatible with multiple iPad models — all easily downloaded from the App Store. They also provide a worldwide server network to access your favorite content, and fast speeds for streaming and gaming. Plus, each one has live chat support for round-the-clock assistance.

These VPNs help protect your online presence, too, with strong security and privacy features. All of them come with reliable money-back guarantees, so getting a refund is hassle-free if you’re unhappy with the service.

1. ExpressVPN — Lightning-Fast Speeds to Stream on Your iPad Without Buffering

ExpressVPN offers a blazing-fast connection that allows you to watch shows on your iPad in Ultra HD. I streamed Pretty Little Liars on my HBO Max account with zero buffering. Unlimited bandwidth also helped me game without any data caps while running my ExpressVPN tests. The slowest server gave me 70 Mbps; just a 6.6% decrease from my 75 Mbps base connection. You only need 25 Mbps for 4K viewing, so this service is more than fast enough.

With the extensive server network, you can unblock streaming platforms worldwide. The service offers obfuscated servers in 94 countries. Obfuscation makes your VPN traffic look normal, which helped me get around VPN blocks to access streaming platforms. I accessed my Netflix UK, ITV Hub, and BBC iPlayer accounts on my iPad. You also get plenty of servers in the US, so you can unblock your Disney+, YouTube, and Hulu accounts from anywhere.

I especially liked the split tunneling feature that lets you choose which iPad apps use the VPN and which don’t. It meant I could unblock content on my streaming apps while using my banking app with my normal IP address. That way I didn’t trigger any security alerts on my bank account.

The VPN’s proprietary Lightway protocol safeguards your connection without compromising speeds or battery life. You can also choose from other secure protocols like OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec, or IKEv2. Military-grade AES 256-bit encryption and IP/DNS leak protection further prevent accidental data exposure. Plus, Perfect Forward Secrecy varies your encryption keys for added safety.

Your privacy is maintained as ExpressVPN has its headquarters in the British Virgin Islands outside the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliances (an international data-sharing agreement). The RAM-based servers, a.k.a TrustedServer tech, wipe any data with every server reboot. Plus, a zero-logs policy means your data isn’t collected or shared with anyone. ExpressVPN is safe to use in countries where other VPNs don’t work, like Turkey and China.

I installed the VPN on my iPad within seconds. Apps are available in 17 languages and are compatible with devices running iOS 7 and newer. You won’t have any compatibility issues, even on older iPads and iPod Touch. There’s a huge online knowledgebase (including troubleshooting guides) and email support. You can also contact customer support via the 24/7 live chat tool if you get stuck with the installation process.

Cost may be a small issue — plans start at $6.67/month. However, ExpressVPN regularly offers discounts that can help reduce the price. I got 49% off on the 12-month plan with 3 months of free service, making it a great deal. You can also pay using Bitcoin for extra privacy.

There’s a trustworthy 30-day money-back guarantee backing this VPN. This gives you more time than the 7-day free-trial for iOS devices. I tested the refund process and it was seamless. After a couple of questions on the live chat about why I was leaving, everything was sorted. The process took around 5 minutes to complete and the money was credited to my bank account in just 3 days.

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2. CyberGhost — Excellent Security Features to Keep You Safe While Using Your iPad

CyberGhost offers automatic WiFi protection feature to shield your iPad on hotspots. It automatically launches the VPN when connecting to any unknown network. So you can use your iPad on public WiFi without worrying about hackers or snoops. I tested CyberGhost for IP and DNS leaks, and it doesn’t expose my location or online activity. The service protects your connection using AES 256-bit encryption, perfect for safely accessing your eBanking app on iPad.

Like ExpressVPN, the VPN is headquartered outside the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliances. It has a kill switch that cuts off your internet if the VPN network drops, protecting you from data exposure. Plus, the service follows a strict no-logs policy, which means your information isn’t stored or shared. You can also use CyberGhost’s ad and tracking blocker to get rid of annoying pop-ups.

Optimized servers for streaming help you unblock popular platforms on your iPad. The app has many servers labeled with the streaming service they unblock. This allowed me to watch Doctor Who on my BBC iPlayer account without running into issues. Overall, there are 9,487 servers in 91 countries.

The speeds are great, and let me stream in the highest quality. I got an average of 70 Mbps (only a minimal drop from my base speed) during my tests, so I played online lag-free and downloaded games without delay. Unlimited bandwidth and the speed boost from the WireGuard protocol help you download all you want without hitting data caps.

User-friendly app design makes this VPN great for iPad users. The iOS app is easy to install and supports devices running iOS 9.3 and above. Customer support is also available 24/7 using the live chat tool.

Monthly plans are quite expensive and offer a shorter money-back guarantee. However, getting a long-term plan only costs $2.19/month. I recommend subscribing to the 2-year plan as it provides you with better value and an extended refund period.

This extended money-back guarantee means you can try CyberGhost free for 45 days. I tested the policy by contacting the customer support team via an online web form. After answering a few emails and requesting a refund, the money was back in my PayPal wallet in 4 days.

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3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Extensive Server Network to Access International Streaming Platforms on Your iPad

Private Internet Access offers an extensive server network in 84 countries. The network includes streaming servers that help you get around geo-restrictions right from your iPad. I accessed local US content during my tests on PIA’s streaming-optimized US servers. I also unblocked my Netflix UK, ITV Hub, and BBC iPlayer subscriptions easily using the UK servers. This helped me watch The Capture on my BBC iPlayer account without issues.

Like CyberGhost, you get fast speeds for smooth streaming and online gaming on your iPad. My experience with gaming was great, with PUBG running lag-free. I downloaded large files without interruptions too, as the VPN has zero bandwidth limitations. Using the extra-fast WireGuard protocol, it only took me about 10 minutes to download a 3 GB game from the Apple App Store.

The VPN offers you great privacy and security protocols, including the industry-standard OpenVPN. I tested PIA for DNS/IP leaks, and it doesn’t expose any data. High-end 256-bit AES encryption and a kill switch further secure your iPad connection. There’s also a built-in ad and malicious site blocker (MACE), so you can browse safely on iPad.

One disappointing thing with PIA is that it’s based in the non-privacy-friendly US (the heart of the 5 Eyes data-sharing Alliance). However, it doesn’t store any logs so you don’t have to worry about having your online activity sold or handed over to third parties — even if it’s requested by the US authorities.

You can get PIA just for $2.03/month. The app supports devices on iOS 12.1 or above, and all its plans offer the same features (including 24/7 live chat support). I recommend getting the 2-year plan as it offers the best value for money.

A reliable money-back guarantee means it’s easy to get a refund within 30 days. I signed in to the control panel and canceled the auto-renew function. Then, all I had to do was contact the support team using the live chat tool and request a refund. My money was transferred back to my credit card in just 5 days.

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4. IPVanish — Unlimited Simultaneous Connections to Cover Your iPad and Other Devices at the Same Time

IPVanish lets you connect your iPad and all your other devices without any limitations. It's compatible with all major operating systems too. During my tests, IPVanish helped me connect multiple devices on the same network without any noticeable impact. I connected 8 devices and faced no outages or performance drops. My internet speeds remained fast (around 65 Mbps), even while streaming and gaming on multiple devices at the same time.

The VPN has a global network of servers spread across 75 countries so you can unblock plenty of international sites on your iPad. The unlimited bandwidth allowed me to binge Strangers on my ITV Hub account without any issues. The US servers also worked with my Netflix US, Disney+, and HBO Max accounts.

AES 256-bit encryption guards your internet connection for a safe online experience. I was also able to choose between multiple security protocols in the iOS app (OpenVPN, Wireguard, and IKEv2) for a safe browsing experience.

Your privacy is protected by a zero logs policy, a kill switch, and DNS/IPv6 leak protection too. The VPN also owns its whole network to avoid third-party tampering. So your real location and other sensitive data aren’t exposed. This is great for accessing your bank account apps safely on your iPad.

I like the easy-to-use app interface — it’s great for beginners. The VPN supports devices running iOS 13+ and offers 24/7 live chat to help you out if you ever get stuck with the installation. You can also enable auto-connect in the app settings, so the app automatically connects to the fastest server whenever you join a network.

One minor drawback is that IPVanish does not currently support Bitcoin payments. Nevertheless, you can conveniently utilize major credit cards and PayPal as alternative payment options when subscribing to their service.

Plans start just from $2.49/month. I recommend getting the 12-month subscription plan for the best value.

You can also try IPVanish without risk for 30 days using its money-back guarantee. I requested a refund using the dashboard options on the website. The process was speedy, and the money was credited to my bank account within 7 days.

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5. PrivateVPN — Beginner-Friendly iPad App to Access Global Content Easily

PrivateVPN offers an easy-to-use iPad app, making it a great option for beginners. The interface is simple, with a server section for specific streaming apps like Amazon Prime Video or DAZN. While testing PrivateVPN’s iOS app on my iPad, I connected to a server with just a single tap. You also get live chat support and free remote installation from VPN developers to help you out if you ever get stuck.

Application Guard lets you choose which apps terminate (like your banking app) if you accidentally disconnect from the VPN. This helps to prevent data leaks if your VPN link goes down. The no-logs policy means your data isn’t stored or shared with third parties. You also get high-grade encryption and DNS/IPv6/WebRTC leak protection for a reliable and safe iPad experience.

Unfortunately, PrivateVPN has quite a small server network. That said, I unblocked my streaming accounts without problems (including Netflix US, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu). I watched Sherlock on my BBC iPlayer account without any trouble from geoblocks. My speed hovered around 60-65 Mbps, allowing me to stream in 4K.

You can get PrivateVPN for just $2/month. I recommend the 3-year plan as it’s the most affordable in the long run.

There’s a trustworthy 30-day money-back guarantee as well. I canceled my plan through the live chat, and the process was hassle-free. After answering a few questions about my experience with the app, my plan was terminated and I got a refund on my credit card after 9 days.

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Quick Comparison Table: iPad VPN Features

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Tips on How to Choose the Best VPN for iPad

All my listed VPNs offer excellent iOS apps, easy unblocking, a speedy network, and advanced security. However, if you want to run a few tests yourself, here are the criteria I used to rank these services:

• Global server network — An extensive server network means you can unblock all your international streaming accounts (like BBC iPlayer or ITV Hub) on your iPad.
• Fast speeds — You need at least 25 Mbps for UHD streaming and more if you want to game smoothly without lag. Go for a service that doesn’t drop your speeds by more than 50%.
• Strong security and privacy features — To safeguard yourself from cyber threats, you need a VPN with reliable security features like robust encryption (AES 256-bit), a no-logs policy, a kill switch, and IP/DNS leak protection.
• Easy-to-use iOS app — Look for a VPN with a user-friendly app for your iPad that supports multiple versions of iOS. Round-the-clock live chat support is also great if you need assistance at any point.
• Trustworthy money-back guarantee — Go for a VPN that offers a reliable money-back guarantee so you can get a refund if the service isn’t what you’re looking for.

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FAQs on Using a VPN for iPad

Why does my iPad VPN keep disconnecting?

This is most likely because of a momentary interruption to your WiFi signal. Another reason might be that the VPN you’re using is limiting the amount of data you can use and disconnecting you. So, use a VPN that offers unlimited bandwidth and a reliable server network to avoid any annoying dropouts.

Does my iPad have a built-in VPN from Apple?

Currently, iPads don’t have a built-in VPN. You can install a VPN on your iPad through the Apple App Store. Just download your chosen VPN app and connect to a server to get started.

If your VPN doesn’t have an iOS app, you can also try manual installation. This is fairly straightforward on an iPad, just follow these steps:

1. Get your VPN credentials. These can usually be found on your VPN’s website, and include your username, password, and the server address you want to use.
2. Configure the VPN. Go to Settings and tap “VPN > Add VPN configuration”. Choose a protocol (OpenVPN is recommended) and enter your information and server address. Give the connection a name you can remember (e.g. ExpressVPN UK). Ensure “Send all traffic” is toggled on.
3. Launch the VPN. Under “VPN Configurations”, toggle “Status” to “On”. Your iPad is now connected to the VPN.

Bear in mind that you’ll have to reconfigure this connection with a new server address every time you want to connect to a different location. That’s why it’s easier to get a VPN with a native iOS app that lets you switch between servers instantly.

Can I connect more than one Apple device to my VPN at the same time?

Yes, just choose a VPN with multiple simultaneous connections. Some VPNs limit how many devices you can connect at once. However, these shortlisted VPNs for iPad allow you to connect numerous devices at the same time. That way, you can use the VPN on your iPad, iPhone, Macbook, and more.

What’s the best iPad VPN for PUBG and BGMI?

The best iPad VPN for PUBG and BGMI is one that offers super-fast speeds and a reliable low-latency server. This helps you get the lowest ping for a seamless gaming experience. ExpressVPN is a great option as it offers lightning-fast speeds and an extensive server network that allows you to game without any lags.

How do I unblock Netflix on my iPad with a VPN?

You unblock Netflix with a VPN — as long as your chosen service has servers in the country with the Netflix library you want to access. For example, to watch Netflix US all you have to do is connect to a US server on your iPad. This gives you a local IP address, which means you can watch your favorite shows on Netflix from anywhere.

Why should I use a VPN for iPad?

A VPN can help you unblock all the content you need on your iPad. VPNs allow you to “borrow” IP addresses from other countries. That means you can access global content that’s usually not available in your country when using a VPN. The same applies if you wish to access local content from your home country while traveling abroad.

VPNs also have great security and privacy features. This is vital if you’re on the move and need to connect your iPad to public WiFi networks. Public hotspots are rarely secured, so a VPN gives you a layer of protection against rising cybercrime.

Can I use a free VPN for iPad?

Free VPNs can put your privacy at risk. Some have been known to sell your data or secretly install malware on your device. Others simply lack important security features. So, a reliable premium VPN with a money-back guarantee is a safer choice.

Even the more secure free VPNs place limitations on what servers you can access, the bandwidth you can utilize, speed, and data. So they’re not good for streaming or gaming on your iPad.

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The Bottom Line

Finding the best VPN for iPad can get a bit tricky. That’s why I only shortlisted VPNs with native iOS apps that are fast and safe to use. Any of the services on my list allow you to browse, stream, and even download files with no interruptions.

That said, my top VPN recommendation for your iPad is ExpressVPN. It has an easy-to-use iOS app compatible with devices running iOS 7 and above. Plus, it offers lightning-fast speeds, a massive server network, and impressive security features. Best of all, you can try ExpressVPN risk-free. It’s backed by a reliable 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can get a full refund if you don’t like it.

To summarize, here are the best VPNs for iPad