8 Best VPNs for iPhone & iOS (SAFE & FAST) in February 2022

iPhones and iPads are known for their built-in security, but this can be misleading. iOS is pretty good at protecting you from malware, but without a VPN, the sites you visit can get information about your activity and location. You're vulnerable to hackers and other third parties who may be trying to see what you're doing online.

That said, not all VPNs are perfect. Some offer iOS apps that don't work as well as their PC/Android versions. Some will slow down your device, while others come with security issues of their own.

I gathered all the Apple enthusiasts from our global cybersecurity research team, and we tested over 60 VPN apps to see which ones are the best in terms of performance, usability, and security. We tested them on different iPhone models, from iPhone X to iPhone 12 Pro Max, and on several iPads as well.

ExpressVPN is our top pick for iOS in February 2022. Its sleek iPhone and iPad apps come with top-notch security, excellent features, and consistently high speeds. With the 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try ExpressVPN risk-free right now - or read on to learn about some of our other favorites.

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The Best VPNs for iPhone and iPad (Updated February 2022)

The wonderful world of Apple is a fast-paced one, with frequent OS updates and new iPhone and iPad models coming out all the time (and then we just have to have them, right?) That's why my team and I continue to test the VPNs on this list regularly, on any new Apple product we can get our hands on.

We also test other upcoming VPNs and make sure to give some of the older ones a second chance as well, so we can always keep this list up-to-date with the absolute best choices for iOS.

1. ExpressVPN - The Best VPN for iPhone and iPad

One of the things my team and I liked most about ExpressVPN is its sleek, dedicated apps for iPhone and iPad. All you have to do is select a country from the drop-down menu and click the connect button.

ExpressVPN's simple interface doesn't mean it's not one of the most powerful VPNs out there. In fact, it has more features than any other iOS VPN we tested. It's got 3,000+ servers in 90 countries and it can easily unblock most major streaming platforms, including tricky ones like Netflix, Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer. You can also use it to access Spotify on your iPhone if you're in a country where it's blocked.

If you plan on using ExpressVPN for streaming, you'll be happy to know it's also one of the fastest VPNs we've tested - you can see the full results of our speed tests in our in-depth ExpressVPN review. I personally use it a lot when I'm traveling. I'd much rather watch videos on my iPad than carry my laptop around everywhere, and ExpressVPN's iPad app always gives me fast enough speeds to stream in HD with no buffering.

ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands, so if privacy is a concern to you, you can benefit from the region’s privacy-friendly data retention laws. There's a strict no-logs policy, and the iOS app protects your data with 256-bit encryption and DNS/IPv6 leak protection.

The one thing we did find a bit disappointing, though, is that ExpressVPN's iOS apps don't have an automatic kill switch - an important feature especially for my colleagues in Russia and China, where internet access is heavily restricted.

Other than that, we didn't run into any issues, but if you do have any questions, you can contact ExpressVPN’s customer service 24/7 via live chat.

The best part is that all ExpressVPN's plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, and this means you can try it out risk-free. Several of my team members, myself included, had the opportunity to test this refund policy, and we were all able to get our money back quickly and smoothly.

Get ExpressVPN for iOS Now!

2. CyberGhost - A Great Choice for Beginners and Apple Watch Users

User-friendly CyberGhost offers a simple but powerful iOS app. It’s well-designed and easy to set up and use. There is also a dedicated app for Apple Watch, which is something you don't see very often.

CyberGhost has 7,670+ high-speed servers in 90 countries, and the one-click Best Location feature automatically connects you to the fastest server based on your location.

The iOS apps come with built-in profiles for streaming - all you have to do is select the service you want to stream, and you'll get a list of dedicated servers. My testers in different countries were all able to easily access Netflix, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer. Some of us had to sit through a few seconds of buffering while an episode would load, but then we could all stream in HD with no issues. If you want to see the full results of our speed tests, check out our in-depth CyberGhost review.

The only person who couldn't connect is my teammate in China - in fact, CyberGhost doesn't work in China at all. If you're planning a trip, I recommend equipping your iPhone with a different VPN from this list.

CyberGhost has a strict no-logs policy. The iOS app keeps you protected with 256-bit encryption and an automatic kill switch. The WiFi Auto-Protect feature detects when your device is connected to public WiFi, giving you an extra layer of security.

If anything goes wrong, you can contact customer support 24/7 via live chat.

CyberGhost offers a very generous 45-day money-back guarantee, giving you a nice long time to try it out risk-free. Just note that this guarantee is only available if you sign up for a year or more. But since CyberGhost is currently offering a 84% discount, there's really no reason not to!

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3. Private Internet Access - Excellent Security With a Private Browser for iOS

Private Internet Access (PIA) is all about keeping your device and your connection secure, whether you're at home or on the go. The iOS app comes with built-in WiFi protection and an automatic kill switch, and there's also a special Content Blocker for Safari, that blocks all ads, trackers, and malware.

PIA's network includes 29,650+ servers in 70 countries, and with the app's Favorites feature, you can mark your preferred servers for reuse. 

As we were testing Private Internet Access, my teammates and I got good speeds, but they were a bit inconsistent. You can see the full results of our speed tests in our in-depth Private Internet Access review. We were able to access popular streaming services like Netflix, but we couldn't connect to every catalog - only a few major countries were available.

In short, I'd say PIA probably isn't the best choice for streaming, but if security is your main concern, it's one of the best options out there. Another nice benefit is that you can connect up to 10  devices simultaneously on a single account.

If you run into any issues, you can reach out to PIA’s customer service team 24/7 via the website.

PIA offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it out risk-free and see if it's right for you. As of right now, there is a 84% discount on all plans, but I'm not sure how long it will be around for.

Get PIA for iOS Now!

4. IPVanish - A Great Choice for Advanced Users

US-based IPVanish offers a feature-packed app for iOS. All the advanced features from the desktop version are there, including security protocol settings, load balancing, and usage statistics.

If you're new to VPNs, IPVanish still has a lot to offer. The VPN connects automatically whenever internet activity is detected, so you don't have to remember to turn it on to stay safe. It gives you access to 2,000+ servers in 70 countries, and it suggests the fastest server based on your location.

During our tests, we were able to access Netflix US, Hotstar India, SlingTV, and a handful of other popular streaming services. The speeds were pretty good as well - you can see all the details in our full IPVanish review.

IPVanish has a zero-logging policy. It comes with DNS/IPv6 leak protection, obfuscation settings (very helpful if you plan on using it in a censorship-heavy region), and an automatic kill switch.

If you encounter any problems, you can get in touch through 24/7 live chat or call-in support available in 7 languages.

IPVanish offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it out risk-free.

Get IPVanish for iOS Now!

5. PrivateVPN - Budget-Friendly With High-End Security

PrivateVPN's iOS app is simple to configure and use. It's a budget-friendly choice with high-end security features, including 256-bit encryption, OpenVPN, and DNS/IPv6 leak protection.

The network is smaller than others on this list, with 200+ servers across 60 locations, and you can connect to the server of your choice with just one click.

In our tests, we found PrivateVPN to be fast, and you can use its streaming-optimized servers to access Netflix and other popular streaming services. For the full results of our testing, see our in-depth PrivateVPN review.

My testers in Russia and China were impressed with PrivateVPN's Stealth mode. It's powerful enough to bypass tough VPN blocks and deep packet inspection, making it an ideal choice if you're in a country with restricted internet access.

With PrivateVPN’s 30-day money-back guarantee, you don't have to think twice about giving it a try.

Get PrivateVPN for iOS Now!

6. TunnelBear - User-Friendly iOS Apps

TunnelBear is a decent choice to protect your iOS device. It offers military-grade security features, and operates a large network of 2,600+ servers in 40 countries.

The dedicated iOS app offers user-friendly features like one-tap connect, auto-connect, and even 3D touch support. However, it's not a great choice for streaming. My teammates and I were able to access HBO GO, but we couldn't unblock any other service we tried. If you're looking for unrestricted access to Netflix, you'd be better off with a different VPN from this list. For more information, see our full TunnelBear review.

Alongside its premium subscription, TunnelBear offers a limited free account with 500 MB of data transfer per month. This isn’t enough for streaming, but it is enough to test TunnelBear out. Keep in mind that TunnelBear does not offer a money-back guarantee.

Get TunnelBear for iOS Now!

7. VyprVPN - A Good Choice for Bypassing Censorship

VyprVPN has a dedicated app for all of your iOS devices, and it's super easy to use. You'll have unlimited bandwidth and data transfer for unrestricted browsing and streaming.

This VPN has over 700 servers in 70 locations, and its connections are reliably fast. You can see the full results of our testing in our in-depth VyprVPN review.

For your iPad, VyprVPN has a unique interactive map so you can easily browse servers and assess latency.

VyprVPN offers military-grade encryption, so you're secure wherever you are, even on public networks. There's a built-in kill switch, and the proprietary Chameleon protocol can help you bypass digital censorship.

Get VyprVPN for iOS Now!

8. SaferVPN - A Simple VPN With WiFi Protection

SaferVPN's iOS app is user-friendly and includes an automatic kill switch. It also automatically connects you to the best VPN server when you use public WiFi.

SaferVPN operates over 950 servers in 35 countries. It performs well in speed tests and can access popular streaming platforms like HBO and BBC iPlayer. For the full results of our testing, see our in-depth SaferVPN review.

SaferVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can try it out risk-free.

Get SaferVPN for iOS Now!

Best VPNs for iOS: Quick Comparison Table

How We Ranked and Tested These VPNs

To find the best VPNs for iPhone and iPad, I assembled a team of cybersecurity experts from countries all over the world, including the US, Canada, the UK, Germany, Russia, China, and Australia.

We thoroughly tested each VPN on this list to make sure it meets our strict criteria for safety, speed, and usability.

We looked for VPNs that:

• Provide high-performance apps for iPhone and iPad
• Are compatible with multiple iOS devices and generations
• Support Apple Pay
• Offer 3D touch support
• Offer apps for other Apple platforms, like macOS and Apple Watch

In addition to iOS compatibility, we tested every VPN to ensure it performed well in the following categories. We continue to test these VPNs regularly to keep the list up-to-date.

Powerful Security

Every VPN on my list uses military-grade encryption and keeps a strict no-logs policy.

We gave preference to VPNs that offer an automatic kill switch and DNS leak protection.

Fast Speeds

Speed is one of the most important aspects of choosing a VPN, particularly when you’re on the go with your iPhone or iPad.

It’s normal for your connection to slow down a little when you connect to a VPN. Your data has to travel farther to reach the VPN server, and it takes some time to encrypt and decrypt your information. However, this should be barely noticeable when using a premium VPN.

All the VPNs on this list meet the speed requirements to stream in high-definition.

Ability to Unblock Streaming Services

I made sure that all of the services I listed can unblock at least two popular streaming services.

FAQ

Do I really need a VPN to protect my iPhone?

iOS offers strong built-in security features, but our experts agree that it's not enough on its own. While iOS does an excellent job at keeping your device safe from malware, it can't protect the data you send over the internet.

VPNs encrypt your data to protect your personal information from cyberthieves. Without a VPN on your iOS device, you are exposed to hackers and identity thieves, not to mention online advertisers who want to track your every move.

A VPN is also the easiest way to protect yourself against DDoS attacks, doxing, and internet surveillance.

Are the best VPNs for iOS also the best for Mac?

The top three services on my list offer great apps for iPhones, iPads, and Macs. You can use one VPN service simultaneously on multiple devices, so you don’t need to buy an extra service just for your Mac. ExpressVPN, our #1 choice, lets you connect up to 5 devices on a single account.

Can I use a free VPN on my iPhone?

Free VPNs are rarely safe to use.

If a business isn’t making money from its product, it needs to find alternate ways to turn a profit.

Some free VPNs generate revenue by selling users’ data to third parties, even if they’ve promised top-notch security. A few have even been found to install malware and trackers on your device.

There are some safe free VPNs, but these are the limited free versions of premium VPN services, like TunnelBear.

The problem with these free VPNs is that they heavily restrict your speed and data. They can be a good option if you only need a VPN for a few days, but you won’t be able to stream.

With so many premium providers offering free trials and money-back guarantees, there’s no reason to risk your security or limit yourself with a free VPN. ExpressVPN has a 30-day money-back guarantee with a no-questions-asked policy, allowing you to try out the service with no long-term commitment.

Are VPNs legal?

VPN use is legal in most of the world.

The main exceptions are Iraq, Iran, Belarus, Turkey, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates. In these countries, VPNs are heavily restricted. It is legal to use a VPN in China, but many VPN services are blocked and do not work.

If you’re a tourist in one of these countries, you don’t need to worry. There haven’t been any issues with international tourists using VPNs in these countries.

Can a VPN bypass iPhone App Store restrictions?

You can use your VPN to bypass the App Store’s geo-restrictions and download exclusive apps from other countries.

1. In your iPhone’s settings menu, select iTunes & App Store.
2. Click View Apple ID, and confirm your login details if you are prompted to do so.
3. Tap Country/Region and then click Change Country or Region.
4. Choose a country from the list that you want to download apps from, then click agree.
5. Open your VPN app and connect to a server in the country that you want to download apps from. Once it’s connected, you’re ready to go.

Note that you may be asked to change your payment information and address. If you don’t have a payment method set up, you can use an iTunes gift card code. For updating your address, you can choose a random street address based in the country you’re switching to.

What is the best VPN to watch Netflix on my iPhone?

ExpressVPN, and CyberGhost are the best VPNs for unblocking Netflix on your iPhone.

To learn more, check out my colleagues’ article on how to change your Netflix region.

What is the best iPhone VPN for China?

ExpressVPN, and PrivateVPN are all secure choices to protect your iPhone in China.

One of my coworkers has written an informative guide that you can use to learn more about the best VPNs for China.

How do I install a VPN on my iPhone?

Installing a VPN on your iPhone is easy.

You need to first sign up for a VPN service. Once you’ve registered, your new service provider will send you a link to download its iOS app.

ExpressVPN is my top choice for iPhone because its iOS app is powerful and easy to use.

What can I do with a VPN on my iPhone?

A VPN uses encryption to secure your internet connection at home and on public WiFi, but there's a lot more you can do with it.

A VPN masks your IP address and can make it appear as if you're browsing the web from a different country. This can give you access to blocked websites that might not be available in your region. With a premium VPN like ExpressVPN, you can even get around anti-VPN technology and access international streaming services such as Netflix and BBC iPlayer. You might discover some great shows and movies that aren't available in your country!

If online music apps like Spotify aren't available in your location, a VPN can give you access so you can stream all the music you want. Speaking of apps, a VPN can also give you access to different countries' App Store catalogs, so you're no longer limited to the apps available in your country.

If you're like me and you like to use your iPhone for online shopping, a VPN can rock your world. You'd be surprised to see how many e-commerce platforms display different prices to users in different countries. This is especially true of sites that sell airline tickets and accommodation.

To find out more about what a VPN can do, don't miss our Beginner's Guide to VPNs.

Does my iPhone/iPad have a VPN built in?

iPhones and iPads all support VPNs, but no, they don't come with a VPN built in.

Will a VPN drain my iPhone battery?

The VPNs on my list all offer dedicated, optimized iOS apps, so they shouldn't drain your battery more than any other app you use. 

Will an iPhone VPN work on an iPad?

Some of the VPNs on my list have dedicated iPad apps, while others will let you use the same app on your iPhone and your iPad. Either way, you should have no problem using any of these VPNs on your iPad, whether it's for security, streaming, or both!

Should I leave my VPN on all the time?

This isn't a must, but it's a good idea if you want to make sure your connection is secure. I sometimes turn my VPN off when I'm using my home WiFi or the secure network at the office, but I make a point of turning it back on whenever I'm connected to public WiFi.

Bottom Line

My team and I tested every VPN on this list to ensure it is safe, fast, and secure.

My top recommendation for iOS is ExpressVPN because of its high-performance app and lightning-fast connection speeds. You can try ExpressVPN risk-free on your iPhone or iPad with its 30-day money-back guarantee.

Get ExpressVPN for iOS Now!

To summarize, the best VPNs for iPhone and iOS in February 2022 are...