Having a virtual private network has become a basic necessity nowadays. Everyone with a phone and internet requires a VPN, and its users have gone way high since lockdown days. It isn’t just about the splendid security features, but it helps you get to all the content that’s blocked in your area.
The consumption of virtual content has gone way high, and after watching most of the shows available in your area, you need access to the rest of the series, too, right? I would love to watch the rest of Anya, but most of it is blocked in India, although lucky for me, I got VPN.
With VPN, my location can be anywhere, and the content of that area gets accessible to me. It’s like having your personal genie granting you access to your wanted content which is tremendously helpful. It isn’t just about streaming services; you can get access to a lot of content that’s being blocked by your country right now.
Now let’s talk about the very alluring security features. If you are looking for a VPN, I don’t have to tell you that even with Apple’s high security, your data isn’t completely secure. Honestly, it isn’t even completely secure with certain lesser VPNs hence choosing one to protect you is a very important job.
Best VPN Apps for iOS Devices
As an iPhone or iPad user, I understand the struggle to find the perfect VPN app that ensures security, privacy, and top-notch performance. Hence, I’ve compiled a list of the best VPNs for iOS devices to help you make an informed decision.
1. NordVPN
If you follow any major YouTuber, you must have heard of NordVPN. It is endorsed by so many known social celebs that it is hard to miss it. It is loved by so many and the first choice of so many because of a plethora of reasons.
NordVPN is the fastest out there, and that isn’t its only selling point. It has a multitude of features, as it provides you with six simultaneous connections and a very effective kill switch. It is affordable as it offers a few plans from which you can pick one suitable to your needs.
It has 5600+ servers over 84 locations, and the location of the headquarters makes it especially safe. There has been no leak reported yet, and the encryption is incredibly strong. Your data will be completely secure, and the speed will allow you to stream or torrent seamlessly.
Nord also has a sideloaded iOS present on its website for you all, which will work out great for you. It offers pretty good discounts, but it doesn’t have an unlimited free plan. What it does have is 24/7 customer support and a 7-day free trial, so you can use it before you decide to commit for the year long.
2. Surfshark
Surfshark boasts impeccable security, just like its sibling company NordVPN. With all the features of a regular VPN, Surfshark also offers you many unique ones too. It is secure and reliable, and the interface is very user-friendly.
With Surfshark, you get unlimited simultaneous connections, and it unblocks everything and, of course, supports torrenting. It includes a camouflage mode which is pretty self-explanatory and a NoBorders mode which will allow you to access a VPN even in the countries it’s not allowed to.
It offers low starting prices so you can be sure you love it before finally committing to a tiny bit higher price, and although it doesn’t have a free trial, it does offer you a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can try it without any risk. Surfshark also has 24/7 customer support via text.
It will also be releasing a Nexus network which means it will basically be a better Tor. The only small issue is that it doesn’t work for routers. The speed, security, and pricing are all compatible with the best of the VPNs, so it’s just a matter of if you love its unique features too.
3. FastestVPN
FastestVPN stands out in the competitive VPN market, gaining popularity on par with ExpressVPN and Nord. What sets us apart is our emphasis on providing an effortless user interface, ensuring that anyone can easily utilize our service.
When it comes to security, FastestVPN excels. We employ robust encryption protocols, guaranteeing the utmost protection for your data. Moreover, we adhere to a strict no-logs policy, meaning we never store any of your personal information. With FastestVPN, you can browse the internet with complete peace of mind, knowing that your privacy is our top priority.
FastestVPN boasts reliable and consistent connection speeds. We understand the importance of seamless online experiences, be it browsing, streaming, or downloading. Our network is designed to deliver fast and stable performance, ensuring you can enjoy the internet to its fullest potential.
With our extensive global server network comprising over 500 servers across 95 countries, FastestVPN provides comprehensive coverage. Whether you’re looking to access geo-restricted content or bypass censorship, our vast server infrastructure empowers you to navigate the online world with freedom and flexibility.
FastestVPN takes pride in its exceptional customer support. Our dedicated team is available 24/7 to assist you with any queries or concerns you may have. We strive to deliver a pleasant and helpful experience, guiding you through every step of your VPN journey
4. ExpressVPN
The popularity of ExpressVPN rivals that of Nord, and for very good reasons. What distinguishes it from others, though, is its easy interface. It is extremely user-friendly, and anyone can use it.
The security is unquestionable with pretty solid encryption, and they don’t store any of your data, so you are completely safe. The speed it provides is also pretty solid and rarely wavers. ExpressVPN has over 500 servers in 95 countries.
Now the pricing is a tiny bit high when compared to others, but the usefulness outweighs the evils. It doesn’t have a free version, but like Surfshark, it does give you a 30-day money-back guarantee with no questions asked.
There’s 24/7 customer support, and the support staff is very nice and helpful; they are there to guide you through every step you need help with. However, it doesn’t block ads and has no multi-hop connections, but those are the only issues. If you focus on the pros, you will find ExpressVPN very helpful and your perfect choice.
5. PureVPN
If your budget is a bit low and you need a VPN to stream something blocked in your country, well, then PureVPN is perfect for you. Everyone has different needs, and we have curated this list to help you find your perfect pick.
PureVPN isn’t the best out there, but some of you are not looking for the best. If you need a good VPN to help you torrent and stream at very reasonable rates, then PureVPN might be the perfect choice for you. It also gives you a 7-day trial for just 99 cents and a 31-day money-back guarantee so you can see for yourself if you love it.
It unblocks torrenting and many other platforms and supports torrenting, you might find some issues torrenting in a few servers, but there are many other servers that will work perfectly for you.
See being honest, it’s not the best in speed or security, but for the pricing, it is definitely worth it. It even has a dedicated app for Apple TV, which is definitely a pro for you Apple users. You can also use PureVPN on ten devices together with any subscription.
6. IPVanish
If your needs are the opposite of PureVPN, then Ipvanish is your perfect option. Its security is amazing, and the encryption is military-grade, but the streaming services are quite average. It also provides unlimited simultaneous connection and a pretty solid kill switch.
It isn’t the best for streaming if you want to unblock Amazon or Hulu, but you shouldn’t face any problems with Netflix. It also supports torrenting, and if you find the right server, you will get pretty good speed. It has around 2000 servers in 52 countries.
IPVanish also has certain unique features which aren’t provided by any other VPN, which makes it pretty appealing. The pricing for the starting year is pretty low but increases later on, and the 30-day money-back guarantee is only valid for the yearly plan.
There’s a 7-day free trial available too, but that’s only there for the yearly plan again. The customer support is great and very helpful. The interface is pretty fun, so if you want to learn the workings of a VPN, then Ipvanish is great for you.
7. PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN is one of the best and much-underrated VPNs out there. You might not have heard much about it, but people in the know, know how good it is. It is extremely secure and amazing for streamers.
Seriously you will be amazed how slick it is to unblock any streaming website or Netflix or, honestly, anything. If you want a VPN that’s secure and lets you stream to your heart’s desire, then you should seriously consider PrivateVPN.
It even supports torrenting and gives you a decent enough speed for it. You can also get a 7-day free trial before you decide to get it, or there’s also a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can get a feel of it before you decide to get it.
Now the monthly pricing is a bit high, but the yearly packages are very reasonable and at par with its competitors. There are around 200 servers in 63 countries, but they are immaculate, so you don’t really have to worry much about the small number of servers.
8. CyberGhost VPN
Get Discount on CyberGhost VPN
CyberGhost is said to have fewer options in the iOS app, but the fact is the functionality is still pretty good. The major selling point of CyberGhost is its humongous fleet of servers. There are 9700+ servers in 91 countries, but that’s not it.
It unblocks all streaming services and supports torrenting because it has specialized servers for streaming and torrenting. You can stream Netflix, Amazon, Disney, or anything without a hitch. The speed is pretty compatible with every other major VPN too.
The security is spectacular, and so is the encryption; they don’t collect your data, so there’s nothing to share, and even if there was, their headquarters are out of any government jurisdiction. They offer seven simultaneous connections and a 7-day free trial only for iOS.
The yearly pricing plans are pretty compatible with that of others, even though the monthly plan is a bit pricey. They also offer you a 45-day money-back guarantee with the yearly plan, so you can be absolutely sure you want it without wasting your money.
9. Atlas VPN
If you are really on a budget and want your browsing to be safe, too, well, Atlas VPN is a freemium VPN. It offers you a pretty good free version, and even though it doesn’t include all the features of the paid version, it’s still the best free version out there.
Atlas VPN is another sibling company of NordVPN so you can trust the security. It has a no-logs policy, and the encryption is pretty good. It also gives you unlimited server connections, which is great; if you don’t have a lot of torrenting and streaming to do, you should definitely check the free version out.
The paid version isn’t very expensive either, and the prices are very reasonable. There are all the features that a good VPN needs. The killer switch is killer, and Atlas VPN will unblock any and all streaming services.
There’s just one issue it is based in the US, so they have jurisdiction, but the no logs policy doesn’t really leave much for you to worry about. The paid very also has a 30-day money-back guarantee, so if you are considering the paid version, you won’t have to worry much.
10. StrongVPN
The StrongVPN is quite like its namesake, strong and reliable. The features are quite similar to every other well-liked VPN, so if you pick it, you won’t have to worry about not having the best.
The speed is quite decent, and the app has a lot of features you will love. It unlocks almost all streaming services, and you won’t face any problems while you Netflix and chill. They also have a no-logs policy to keep your browsing history safe and secure.
The encryption is strong, and there haven’t been any leaks reported, although the headquarters lie in US jurisdiction, so if you can trust that, it is a very decent VPN. It provides up to 12 simultaneous connections and has specialized servers that support torrenting and streaming.
It doesn’t have a free version, but the prices are very compatible with others in the market. You don’t have to just trust my word; it also has a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can see for yourself if you like it.
11. Hotspot Shield
Get Discount on Hotspot Shield
I have listed many good VPNs, but the list can go on, so another great VPN is Hotspot Shield or also known as HSS. It wasn’t considered great in the past, but it worked hard to change its reputation.
Hotspot Shield has very strong security and stronger encryption; it also has a no-logs policy to keep your data completely safe from prying eyes. You can also unblock almost all streaming services even if you are in China, and the speed is decent too.
It also has a limited free version, and the paid version has very compatible pricing with those of its competitors. You don’t have to go on my word as just like the others in this list, Hotspot Shield has a money-back guarantee too, and that too for 45 days.
Honestly, it’s a great starter VPN as it is also user-friendly, so it will be helpful to you if you are a novice in the world of VPNs. The customer support isn’t that great, but the overall VPN works quite well and just might be what you are looking for.
Understanding VPNs and Their Importance
We live in a digital era where the internet has become an integral part of our daily lives. As iPhone and iPad users, we’re constantly connected to the internet, which means it’s important to be aware of potential security risks. That’s where Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) come in handy.
A VPN is a service that encrypts your internet connection, ensuring the data you send and receive remains secure. It does so by routing your internet traffic through a secure tunnel, masking your IP address and location. This allows you to maintain your privacy while browsing the web. But why exactly are VPNs so essential for iPhone and iPad users? Let’s break down their importance:
- Privacy protection: Using a VPN prevents your Internet Service Provider (ISP) and other third parties from tracking your online activities. Your IP address stays hidden, making it difficult for websites and advertisers to pinpoint your location or collect personal information.
- Data security: A VPN encrypts your data, so even if someone intercepts your internet traffic, they won’t be able to decipher the contents. This is especially crucial when using public Wi-Fi networks, as they’re often not secure and susceptible to hackers.
- Access geo-restricted content: Many streaming services and websites offer content based on your location. By connecting to a VPN server in a different country, you can bypass these restrictions and access the content that might not be available otherwise.
- Bypass censorship: Certain countries impose strict censorship rules, blocking access to specific websites, apps, or content. A VPN helps you bypass these restrictions, granting you uncensored access to the internet.
Here are some important statistics that highlight the growing use of VPNs:
| Year | Percentage of internet users using VPNs |
|---|---|
| 2017 | 25% |
| 2018 | 30% |
| 2019 | 31% |
| 2020 | 35% |
Source: Statista
These numbers show a steady increase in VPN usage, and with the ongoing prevalence of data breaches and other security concerns, this trend is expected to continue.
So, as an iPhone or iPad user, it’s essential to invest in a reliable VPN to protect your privacy, secure your data, and enjoy unrestricted access to the internet. In the following sections, I’ll share with you my top 10 VPN picks and why they’re the best choices for your iOS devices.
The Perks of Using a VPN on Your iPhone and iPad
When it comes to protecting your privacy and enhancing your online security, using a VPN on your iPhone and iPad can be a game-changer. There are numerous benefits associated with incorporating a VPN into your daily mobile device usage. In this section, I’ll break down some of the top perks of using a VPN on your iOS devices.
Enhanced Privacy and Security
One of the primary reasons I recommend using a VPN is the heightened privacy and security it offers. VPNs work by encrypting your internet connection, ensuring that all data sent and received is protected from snooping eyes. This is especially crucial when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, where there’s a higher risk of data breaches and cyberattacks.
Unrestricted Content Access
Another advantage of employing a VPN is the ability to bypass content restrictions. Many websites and streaming services impose geographical limitations, meaning you’re unable to access certain content based on your location. By utilizing a VPN, you can connect to a server in a different country, tricking the website or service into thinking you’re located where the content is available.
Some popular streaming services that can benefit from using a VPN include:
- Netflix
- Hulu
- Disney+
- BBC iPlayer
Safe Torrenting and P2P File Sharing
In recent years, torrenting has become a point of contention, often associated with piracy and illegal file sharing. Even if you’re sharing legal content, torrenting can still put you at risk of cyberattacks or expose you to unwanted scrutiny. A VPN can provide the protection you need by masking your IP address and ensuring your torrenting activities remain private and secure.
Avoid Bandwidth Throttling
Some Internet Service Providers (ISPs) resort to bandwidth throttling to manage traffic on their networks. This can lead to slower internet speeds as your ISP attempts to regulate your usage. With a VPN, your data usage remains hidden from your ISP, preventing them from implementing any throttling measures.
Stay More Anonymous Online
Privacy-conscious individuals value the ability to remain anonymous online. A VPN can help by hiding your IP address and making it more difficult for third parties to track your online activities. Just keep in mind that using a VPN doesn’t guarantee complete anonymity, and it’s crucial to pair the VPN with good browsing habits and privacy tools.
As you can see, there’s no shortage of reasons to use a VPN on your iPhone and iPad. From enhanced security to unrestricted content access, incorporating a VPN into your daily mobile device usage can greatly improve your overall online experience.
Performance and Speed Comparison
Diving into the world of VPNs for iPhone and iPad users, I’ve found that performance and speed are crucial factors in choosing the best option. In this section, I’ll compare the performance and speed of the top-rated VPNs to help you make an informed decision. Keep in mind that connection speeds may vary depending on a user’s location, ISP, and device.
When conducting my research, I discovered that the top-performing VPNs in terms of speed are ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark. These providers consistently deliver high-speed connections. Here’s a breakdown of average download speeds:
| VPN Provider | Average Download Speed |
|---|---|
| NordVPN | 1105 Mbps |
| ExpressVPN | 890 Mbps |
| Surfshark | 880 Mbps |
It’s worth noting that:
- NordVPN consistently ranks as the fastest VPN in various tests. It’s known for its ability to bypass geo-blocked content and reliably stream videos without buffering or stuttering (see our comparison between NordVPN and ExpressVPN).
- ExpressVPN comes in a close second. With its advanced features, ExpressVPN offers impressive speeds while also prioritizing security.
- Surfshark provides a more budget-friendly alternative. Despite its lower price tag, Surfshark delivers commendable performance and reliable connections.
Moving on to other contenders, we have CyberGhost, PureVPN, and Hotspot Shield
. These providers offer relatively good performance and respectable speeds:
| VPN Provider | Average Download Speed |
|---|---|
| CyberGhost | 94 Mbps |
| PureVPN | 77 Mbps |
| Hotspot Shield | 72 Mbps |
A few things to take into account regarding these providers:
- CyberGhost boasts a vast network of servers and user-friendly apps. It’s appealing for beginners while still maintaining dependable connections and streaming capabilities.
- PureVPN is a popular choice among users who value security and privacy. Though its speeds are lower than some of its competitors, PIA offers excellent encryption and a proven track record for privacy.
- Hotspot Shield is an established provider that has been in the VPN industry for many years, offering solid performance and a user-friendly interface.
Lastly, let’s not forget VyprVPN, Hotspot Shield, and TunnelBear. While they don’t necessarily top the charts in terms of speed, they still provide reasonably good performance:
| VPN Provider | Average Download Speed |
|---|---|
| VyprVPN | 67 Mbps |
| Hotspot Shield | 56 Mbps |
| TunnelBear | 52 Mbps |
A few points about these VPNs:
- VyprVPN is renowned for its strong security features and has the proprietary Chameleon protocol, which helps bypass restrictive networks.
- Hotspot Shield offers a user-friendly interface and provides a stable connection, albeit with lower average speeds compared to some competitors.
- TunnelBear is a great option for users seeking a user-friendly app and a visually engaging interface, but may sacrifice some speed in the process.
Remember that these averages are meant to give you a general idea of performance, as individual experiences will inevitably vary.
Privacy Features and Security Protocols
When it comes to choosing the best VPN for your iPhone or iPad, privacy features and security protocols play a significant role in the decision-making process. In this section, I’ll discuss some critical aspects of these features, helping you determine which VPN best suits your needs.
First and foremost, it’s essential to understand the types of encryption a VPN employs. The more robust the encryption, the better the protection for your data. Many top VPNs use Advanced Encryption Standards (AES) with 256-bit keys, which is widely regarded as industry-standard encryption. Here’s a quick comparison of encryption types:
| Encryption Type | Key Size | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| AES-256 | 256 bits | Military-grade, highly secure |
| AES-128 | 128 bits | Faster, moderately secure |
| Blowfish | 128 bits | Older, lower security |
| 3DES | 168 bits | Outdated, not recommended |
Another essential factor in a VPN’s security is its security protocol. There are several protocols to choose from, each with its pros and cons:
- OpenVPN: Widely adopted for its open-source nature and strong security. It’s highly configurable and works well on various platforms, including iOS.
- IKEv2: Known for its speed and reliability, IKEv2 is ideal for establishing a quick connection. It’s particularly suited for mobile devices as it supports switching between networks seamlessly.
- L2TP/IPsec: L2TP by itself is not encrypted, but when paired with the IPsec protocol, it provides a reasonable level of security. However, it’s not as fast as other protocols.
- PPTP: While PPTP is fast and easy to set up, its level of security is subpar, and it’s not recommended for those seeking strong protection.
It’s also essential to look for VPNs that offer features like a kill switch and DNS leak protection. The kill switch automatically disconnects your device from the internet if the VPN connection drops, preventing your data from being exposed. DNS leak protection ensures that your DNS requests are routed through the VPN, rather than through your ISP.
Finally, consider the VPN provider’s privacy policy and location. Some countries have data retention laws or are part of intelligence-sharing agreements. A VPN based in one of these countries may be compelled to share your data with the authorities. Ensure the provider has a strict no-logs policy, meaning they won’t store any information about your online activity.
By having a strong understanding of privacy features and security protocols, you’ll be better equipped to evaluate and select the best VPN for your iPhone or iPad.
Cross-Platform Availability
When searching for the best VPNs for iPhone and iPad users, one crucial factor to consider is cross-platform availability. It’s important for these VPNs to support not only iOS devices but also other major platforms like Windows, Mac, Android, and more. This flexibility comes in handy since many people use multiple devices and switching between them should be seamless.
Here are a few reasons why cross-platform availability is essential:
- Uniform experience: I expect a consistent experience across all platforms, with similar features and functionalities.
- Ease of use: When a VPN is available on multiple platforms, it’s typically easier to set up and use on different devices.
- Cost-effective: Many VPN providers offer multi-device licenses or subscriptions, which can save you money in the long run.
Let’s dive into some popular VPNs that excel in cross-platform availability:
- ExpressVPN: Recognized as a top-tier VPN provider, ExpressVPN supports iOS, Android, Windows, Mac, and even Linux. With one subscription, you can secure up to five devices simultaneously.
- NordVPN: This well-known VPN offers cross-platform support for iOS, Android, Windows, Mac, and Linux. NordVPN allows you to connect up to six devices at the same time.
- SurfShark: Supporting iOS, Android, Windows, and Mac, SurfShark stands out in terms of cross-platform availability. You can simultaneously connect unlimited devices to their network.
- CyberGhost: CyberGhost boasts compatibility with iOS, Android, Windows, and Mac devices. With their service, you’re able to secure up to seven devices under one account.
- IPVanish: This VPN is compatible with iOS, Android, Windows, and Mac platforms. IPVanish lets you connect unlimited devices with a single subscription, which is a huge advantage for those with multiple devices.
| VPN Provider | iOS | Android | Windows | Mac | Linux | No. of Devices |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ExpressVPN | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | 5 |
| NordVPN | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | 6 |
| SurfShark | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Unlimited |
| CyberGhost | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | 7 |
| IPVanish | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Unlimited |
These VPNs are just a few examples that showcase the importance of cross-platform availability. So, when choosing the best VPN for your iPhone and iPad, go for those that offer seamless support across a wide range of platforms.
User-Friendly Interface and Support
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing the best VPN service for your iPhone and iPad is the user interface. If the interface is not user-friendly, you may struggle to navigate the app and effectively protect your devices. Here’s what you should look for:
- Intuitive design: The VPN app should be easy to use, even for those who are not tech-savvy. You’ll want to be able to quickly connect and disconnect, as well as access more advanced features without too much hassle.
- Responsive support: A VPN provider should offer prompt and helpful assistance if there are issues with the app or questions about its features. Look for companies that provide multiple contact methods like live chat, email, and phone support.
Additionally, the best VPN apps for iPhone and iPad should offer these essential features:
- Kill switch: This feature immediately cuts off your internet connection if the VPN unexpectedly drops, ensuring secure browsing at all times.
- Auto-connect: This is especially important if you’re frequently switching between Wi-Fi networks or moving between cellular and Wi-Fi data. A good VPN app will automatically reconnect to keep your connection protected.
- Customizable server selection: You should be able to choose and save your favorite server locations for future use, as well as switch easily between server locations based on your needs.
- Split tunneling: This lets you decide which apps use the VPN and which don’t. This can be helpful for maintaining connection speeds, as some apps might not require extra security.
- Multiple device compatibility: Some VPN providers offer simultaneous connections so that you can also use their service on other devices like your laptop or other family members’ phones. It’s always good to check the maximum number of supported devices before committing to a VPN service.
When looking at reviews, it’s essential to consider both expert opinions and feedback from real users, as their experiences can offer valuable insights into the VPN’s performance and usability. Weigh the pros and cons of each VPN on your shortlist before making an informed decision.
To give you a head start, here are five VPN services that excel in providing user-friendly interfaces and support for their iOS apps:
- ExpressVPN
- NordVPN
- CyberGhost
- Surfshark
- IPVanish
Each of these VPN services has received rave reviews in terms of their usability and customer support. With their feature-rich apps and responsive support teams, you’ll be set for a secure and seamless VPN experience on your iPhone or iPad.
Conclusion
I know picking anything can be quite daunting and especially when there are too many choices, but I hope I helped a little to make that task a tiny bit easier. You still have ten tried and trusted VPNs to pick from based on their features.
Your security should be taken seriously, and these VPNs will do their best to keep your privacy private. I have many personal favorites in this list but do try the ones you find attractive, and with the money-back guarantees and the free trials, what have you got to lose?
Try one or try all but have fun picking the best according to you, so go and stream all you like.