Amidst the growing concerns regarding online security and privacy, if you’re looking for the best free VPN for your iPhone, you’re in the right place.
With a VPN, you can encrypt your internet connection, protect your data from potential threats (such as hackers or surveillance), get access to geo-restricted content, and safely browse on public Wi-Fi networks.
So, you must choose a reliable VPN service provider that offers strong encryption, a no-log policy, and essential features.
But, considering it a daunting task, I’ve shortlisted the 5 best free VPNs for iPhone that provide you enhanced security and privacy without making you compromise on performance.
Why to Use a VPN on an iPhone?
Well, no doubt, iPhones (compared to Androids) are indeed designed with security in mind but using a VPN on an iPhone has its benefits too. For instance–
VPN Offers Public Wi-Fi Security: You may agree that using public Wi-Fi networks in cafés, airports, or hotels, puts your data at high risk of being stolen! But, when you use a VPN, you can encrypt your internet traffic, which makes it difficult for anyone to spy on your online activities, even while using unsecured Wi-Fi networks.
VPN Offers Access to Blocked Content: Even if certain websites or streaming services are blocked in your region, with a VPN, you can hide your true location and connect to servers in other countries to access the blocked content.
VPN Helps to Avoid ISP Tracking: It is worth noting that your internet service provider (ISP) can track your online activities, including the websites you visit online and the apps you use. But, with a VPN on your iPhone, you can easily prevent your ISP from monitoring your internet usage.
So, even though iPhones have strong built-in privacy features, it’s generally a good idea to use a VPN on an iPhone for an extra layer of security and privacy. VPNs basically give you peace of mind by keeping your data secure, hiding your IP address, and preventing your ISP from tracking your online activities.
How to Select the Best VPN for iPhone?
You can easily select the best VPN for your iPhone if you look for a VPN with–
A user-friendly iOS app,
Strong encryption protocols like AES-256,
Large server network for fast and reliable connections,
No-logs policy for privacy protection,
Reliable customer support,
Features like split tunneling, kill switch, and ad/malware blockers for enhanced security,
Good performance and compatibility with streaming services (if you wish to use a VPN for entertainment).
Most importantly, you should also read reviews and user experiences to consider the reputation of the VPN service provider for trustworthiness.
Pro Tip:Never use free VPNs on your iPhone that have a history of privacy breaches, limited servers, or bad reviews. For example – Hola VPN, Betternet, Hotspot Shield Free, SuperVPN, StealthVPN, DotVPN, HatVPN, FreeVPN, EasyVPN, FlashVPN, and TouchVPN, etc.
5 Best Free VPNs for iPhone in 2024
Now that you know why VPNs are important for iPhones and also have some tips in mind for choosing the best one, let’s look at the top five picks that I’ve selected for you after comparing several essential factors–
Compatible with Streaming Platforms: Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, HBO, Hulu, Showtime and more.
Ratings on App Store: 4.7 out of 5
ExpressVPN is a top choice for iPhone users because it maintains fast browsing speeds. Yes, it’s fantastic! You won’t even notice a slowdown in your internet speed.
Moreover, it is super secure. With its top-notch encryption and a strict no-log policy, you need not worry, your privacy is protected.
Besides prioritizing your security by not keeping any logs of your activity, ExpressVPN is also considered a great tool for accessing content that might be blocked due to geographical restrictions or censorship.
And, wait, there’s more! It comes with advanced features like tracker blocking and even a built-in password manager for added convenience and security, all included in the package.
So, if you want, give it a try – you won’t regret your decision because, with ExpressVPN, you can enjoy smooth and secure browsing while having control of your online activities.
Supported Platforms: iOS, Android, macOS, Windows, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, tvOS and more.
Data Limit: Unlimited
No. of Servers: 6356 servers in 111 Countries
Simultaneous Connection: Up to 10 devices.
Compatible with Streaming Platforms: Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and the DAZN channel
Ratings on App Store: 4.7 out of 5
NordVPN is also an excellent choice for ensuring the safety of your online activities on your iPhone.
It offers various interesting features like Threat Protection to help you block malware and trackers, Meshnet to create secure networks, and Dark Web Monitor to alert you if your accounts are compromised. Moreover, with NordVPN’s Dedicated IP, you can easily maintain your online reputation and get access to restricted networks.
Not only that, you can enjoy peace of mind with its robust encryption, Kill Switch, and Split tunneling functionalities, which give you control over how your VPN protects you while you’re online.
Overall, NordVPN, along with additional features like DoubleVPN, SmartPlay, and PrivateDNS, provides comprehensive security and enhances your online experience.
Pros
Uses 256-bit AES encryption.
Easy-to-use iOS app.
Protects against DDoS attacks.
The fastest VPN available.
RAM-exclusive server setup.
A dedicated IP option is available.
Double VPN feature for extra security.
Security features are checked independently.
Responsive customer support via email, live chat, and help center.
Supported Platforms: iOS, Android, Windows, Mac and Linux
Data Limit: Unlimited
No. of Servers: 4874+ servers in 91 countries.
Simultaneous Connection: Up to 10 devices.
Compatible with Streaming Platforms: YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, Spotify, Kodi, Facebook, HBO Max, Instagram, Disney+ and Netflix.
Ratings on App Store: 4.6 out of 5
ProtonVPN is another great option that you can consider using on your iPhone. What sets it apart is that it doesn’t require a subscription fee from you to use its amazing features.
For both iOS and iPadOS users, ProtonVPN offers a security and privacy-focused VPN app. So, it doesn’t matter whether you have an iPhone or iPad, PhotonVPN’s iOS app will be going to protect your online activity with its secure no-logs VPN policy.
If more to mention, ProtonVPN uses strong AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption along with tunneling protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN to keep your internet connection secure.
So, if you’re looking for a free VPN for iPhone without a subscription but still want top-notch safety features, then ProtonVPN is an excellent option to look for!
Pros
Strong focus on privacy and security.
Supports P2P file sharing.
Open source apps for transparency.
Based in Switzerland, known for strong privacy laws.
Easily bypass internet censorship and VPN blocks with Stealth protocol.
Cons
Free plan has limited features and server options.
Compatible with Streaming Platforms: Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu.
Ratings on App Store: 4.8 out of 5
SurfsharkVPN can also be a perfect pick for your iPhone, with which you can keep your online activities private and secure.
Where others have an upper limit, it stands out because it allows you to connect to an unlimited number of devices simultaneously.
It’s easy to use and really safe compared to many other VPNs in the market. Like ProtonVPN and others listed, Surfshark also uses the leading encryption algorithm AES-256 GCM, along with ChaCha20-Poly1305 to keep your data secure.
Moreover, its features like RAM-only servers, a strict no-log policy, and the MultiHop is what makes Surfshark a reliable choice for those who value both privacy and convenience.
Pros
Unlimited simultaneous connections.
Clean and user-friendly interface.
Excellent security features.
One of the safest VPNs available.
Strict no-log policy.
RAM-only servers for more privacy.
MultiHop or double VPN feature for extra security.
Cons
Limited server locations in some regions.
Occasionally slower speeds as compared to other VPN providers.
Supported Platforms: iOS, Android, Mac, Windows, Linux, Router, Apple TV, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV
Data Limit: Unlimited
No. of Servers: 2400+ servers in 89 countries.
Simultaneous Connection: Up to 10 devices.
Compatible with Streaming Platforms: Netflix, BBCiPlayer, Facebook, Instagram, Spotify and YouTube
Ratings on App Store: 4.5 out of 5
Last but not least, in the category of the best VPN for iPhone free, it is hide.meVPN that distinguishes itself from its competitors. All thanks to its compatibility with different devices and ability to provide fast speed to let you stream and browse without any slowdowns.
Further, you can blindly trust on hide.meVPN that your privacy is protected with its no-logs policy and strong encryption.
To mention more, hide.meVPN offers you cutting-edge technology like IPv6 address support and the latest WireGuard VPN protocol to keep your real IP address hidden for privacy.
Overall, despite it having some limitations on the free plan, you can still rely on hide.meVPN to enjoy better security and performance whenever you’re online.
Pros
No logs policy.
Supports a wide range of platforms.
Strong encryption protocols.
Fast connection speed.
Reliable customer support.
Cons
Free plan has speed limitations, data restrictions, and server choices.
By reading so far, you’ve probably chosen which of these top 5 VPNs you want to use on your iPhone, haven’t you? So, now, it’s time to learn how you can set up the VPN of your choice on your iPhone.
Well, setting up a VPN on an iPhone is easier than you might think, as you just have to follow these four simple steps–
Step 1: Firstly, subscribe to a VPN service of your choice.
Step 2: Then, go to the App Store and download and install the VPN app from there.
Step 3: Once installed, open the app and (if necessary) create an account.
Step 4: After that, log in to the app and follow the app’s instructions to enable the VPN connection.
Notes
When you connect for the first time, the app may request for some permission to ‘create a new VPN profile’ and it’s important to grant any permissions the app requests because it allows the app to set up your connection securely. Otherwise, you may encounter connectivity issues or compromise your security.
Once you’ve granted the necessary permissions to the VPN app, you’re all set to enjoy a secure and private browsing experience on your iPhone.
Bottom Line
That’s all. Now, no matter whether you’re concerned about protecting your online activities, accessing geo-restricted content, or maintaining anonymity while browsing, rest assured that these 5 best free VPN for iPhone have got you covered.
So, what are you waiting for? Try one out today and ensure your online security and privacy on your iPhone!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a free VPN safe for iOS?
It depends. While not many free VPNs are safe for iOS, there are some including Surfshark, ExpressVPN, ProtonVPN, NordVPN, and hide.me VPN that are considered safe for use on iOS. So, if you want to use a free VPN on your iOS device, it is important to choose a reputable and reliable one that comes with strong security measures.
Is Apple’s VPN like other VPNs?
No. Though Apple’s Private Relay does hide your IP address and encrypt your internet traffic like a VPN, it’s not like them. It doesn’t offer the same level of security and privacy as a VPN.
What is the safest VPN for an iPhone?
Several VPNs such as ExpressVPN and NordVPN are considered safe to use on iPhone.
How can I download a free VPN on my iPhone?
To download a free VPN on your iPhone–
Open the App Store and search for the free VPN you want to use on your device.
Then, tap Get to download and install it. Alternatively, you can go to the selected VPN website and directly download and install it from there.
After it gets installed, open the app and follow the setup instructions (if any) to start using it for secure browsing.
Does a VPN drain your phone’s battery fast?
Yes, using a VPN can drain your phone’s battery faster than usual. It is because VPN uses extra processing power and network resources to encrypt and route your internet traffic.
Can you leave a VPN ‘ON’ all the time on your iPhone?
Although yes, you can leave your VPN on all the time on your iPhone, remember it might slow down your internet speed and consume your device’s battery quite fast. So, it would be best to use VPN on your iPhone for extra security when you browse sensitive content or use a public Wi-Fi.