Using the internet on your Android device puts your privacy and security at risk. Hackers and cyber criminals are finding new ways to steal personal data every day.
A VPN (virtual private network) encrypts your internet connection to keep what you do online private, secure and anonymous. It hides your IP address, location and online activity from hackers, your internet provider and even government surveillance programs.
In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about choosing the best Android VPN for your needs.
Why You Need a VPN for Android
There are several reasons why a VPN is essential for Android devices:
1. Public Wi-Fi Protection
Connecting to public Wi-Fi at the airport, library or coffee shop puts you at huge risk for hacks and data theft. A VPN secures all internet traffic to and from your device when on public networks.
2. Access Restricted Content
A VPN allows you to bypass geo-restrictions to access region-locked content. Unblock streaming services, social media sites and sporting events no matter where you are located.
3. Shield Online Activity
Your internet provider can see every site you visit and app you use. A VPN prevents this by hiding browsing data and online activity from your ISP.
4. Avoid Data Tracking
Companies track your online behavior to target ads and sell data. A VPN blocks trackers and hides your digital footprint from data brokers.
5. Enhanced Privacy
Government agencies conduct mass surveillance by collecting personal data without consent. An Android VPNdefends against dragnet monitoring by making you anonymous online.
Top 10 Android VPN Services
Based on speed, privacy policies and security features, we recommend the following 10 best VPNs for Android:
- ExpressVPN – Fastest and most reliable Android VPN
- NordVPN – Great for streaming and torrenting
- Surfshark – Unlimited devices support
- Private Internet Access – High-level encryption
- CyberGhost – User-friendly interface
- IPVanish – Zero traffic logs policy
- ProtonVPN – High-speed Swiss privacy
- TunnelBear – Free limited version
- Windscribe – Allows port forwarding
- hide.me – Impressive free plan
We evaluated over 28 VPN services using various criteria to determine the best Android VPN options:
Speed – Fast connection speeds for HD streaming & downloads
Security – Military-grade encryption like AES 256-bit to shield data
Privacy – Strict no-logs policies that protect user privacy
Server Locations – Global server network to bypass geo-blocks
Simultaneous Devices – Connect all phones, tablets and devices
Customer Support – 24/7 live chat and email to resolve issues
Price – Affordable premium and free VPN account options
Let‘s take a closer look at the top 3 recommended VPNs for Android devices and how they compare.
1. ExpressVPN – Best Overall
ExpressVPN tops our list because it offers blazing speeds and watertight security. With 3,000+ servers in 94 countries, you can unblock any site and stream lag-free. Other key features include:
- AES 256-bit encryption
- Split tunneling capability
- TrustedServer technology
- Kill switch to prevent IP leaks
- 24/7 live chat support
The user-friendly Android app makes it easy to connect with one tap. It’s reliable for securing WiFi connections and unlocking geo-restricted content.
Pros
- Fastest VPN speeds
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Allows torrenting
Cons
- Slightly more expensive
2. NordVPN – Most Secure
NordVPN is a market leader that offers robust encryption and an internet kill switch. With over 5,300 servers worldwide, it provides smooth streaming and downloads. Features include:
- Next-gen Encryption
- CyberSec malware blocking
- Onion over VPN for privacy
- Obfuscated servers to bypass firewalls
- Strict no-logs policy
The NordVPN app makes connecting effortlessly easy with one-click functionality. It includes specialty servers for P2P filesharing.
Pros
- Allows 6 simultaneous connections
- 30-day money back guarantee
- Fast VPN server network
Cons
- Live chat support can be slow
3. Surfshark – Best Unlimited Connection VPN
Surfshark offers bulletproof security coupled with blazing speeds. With over 3,200 servers in 65 countries, it reliably unblocks sites and streaming apps. Features include:
- AES-256-GCM encryption
- CleanWeb ad & malware blocking
- MultiHop connections for privacy
- Kill Switch and private DNS
- No-logs policy
The Surfshark Android app makes it simple to get started. It allows unlimited devices so every gadget in your home can be secured.
Pros
- Allows unlimited devices
- Includes one month free
- Torrenting/P2P allowed
Cons
- Smaller server network than competitors
How to Choose the Best Android VPN
With hundreds of VPN services on the market, picking the right one for your Android device can be challenging. Here are key factors to consider:
Encryption & Security Protocols – AES 256-bit is the gold standard, but protocols like OpenVPN and IKEv2 also enable a encrypted, secure connection.
Speed – Choose a VPN that offers reliable speeds to avoid buffering and lag, especially for streaming HD video.
Server Locations – More global server locations increases ability to unblock geo-restricted sites and content.
Logging Policies – Strict no-logs policies that protect user data and browsing activity are vital.
Supported Platforms – The ability to secure all devices (Windows, iOS, routers etc.) from one account is convenient.
Customer Support – Responsive 24/7 live chat and email support is useful when issues arise.
Price – While free VPNs exist, premium options tend to be faster, more secure and reliable over the long haul.
VPN Setup Guide for Android Devices
Setting up a VPN on your Android is quick and easy. Just follow these steps:
1. Select a reputable VPN provider like the ones we recommend above. Sign up for an account.
2. Download the VPN provider‘s Android app from the Google Play Store and install by tapping Get.
3. Launch the app and login using your VPN account credentials.
4. Tap Connect to link with the fastest server location.
That‘s all there is to it! The VPN app will now securely encrypt all network traffic to and from your Android device.
You can select specific locations to unblock geo-restricted sites based on server locations. Be sure to disconnect the VPN connection within the app when it‘s not needed to maximize mobile data and battery life.
Frequently Asked Android VPN Questions
Let‘s review some common questions about using virtual private networks on Android devices:
Will a VPN drain my Android battery life?
Running a VPN app does use a bit more battery power and data since all traffic gets routed through encrypted tunnels. However, most impacts are minimal, especially on newer Android models.
Does a VPN reduce Android speed?
The fastest VPNs have little to no effect on internet speeds. However, connecting to a VPN server farther away can increase latency slightly. Be sure to choose a nearby server location for optimal performance.
What is the best free VPN for Android?
While free VPNs like Windscribe and Hide.me for Android exist, most free services have data limits, slower speeds, less locations and lack advanced features. Premium options tend to perform better overall.
Is it illegal to use a VPN on Android?
Using a personal VPN for accessing blocked content, securing public WiFi and maintaining privacy is perfectly legal in most regions. However, be aware that some restrictive countries do ban usage of VPN technology.
How do I manually configure a VPN on Android?
In Android settings, go to Network & Internet > Advanced > VPN. Tap the + sign to add a new VPN profile and enter the server address, encryption details and credentials provided by your VPN provider.
Protect Your Android Privacy with the Best VPN
Your Android device contains a wealth of sensitive personal information that is vulnerable without proper safeguards in place. Hacking attacks aimed at mobile users are on the rise globally.
Implementing a premium Virtual Private Network remains one of the most effective ways to keep all smartphone and tablet data secured. Encrypting connections protects the entire device by routing traffic through an encrypted tunnel to the VPN server.
We highly recommending choosing one of the best Android VPN services above to shield your privacy across public WiFi, bypass geo-blocks, defend against malware and surf the web anonymously.
Most leading options like ExpressVPN and NordVPN make setting up the VPN service quick and easy thanks to user-friendly apps. Take advantage of free trials and money-back guarantees as you evaluate your optimal VPN for Android.
Did you find this guide helpful? Share it online to help friends and family secure mobile devices as well! Please let us know if you have any other VPN questions in the comments below.
