10 Best VPNs for Android in 2022 — Fast, Safe & Secure Apps
- The Best VPNs for Android – Full Analysis (Updated February)
- ExpressVPN — Ultra-Secure Android App With Superfast Speeds for Streaming
- CyberGhost — Specialty Servers and User-Friendly Android App For Uncomplicated Protection
- IPVanish — Superfast With a Customizable Android App to Balance Speeds and Security
- Private Internet Access — Customizable and Fast to Keep Your Android Running Smoothly
- PrivateVPN — Reliable and Fast for Uninterrupted Streaming on Your Android
- Quick Comparison Table: Android VPN Features
- Tips on How to Choose the Best Android VPN
- Quick Guide: How to Set Up an Android VPN in 3 Easy Steps
- Android VPNs You Should Avoid
- FAQs on Android VPNs
- Get the Best VPN for Android Today!
It’s difficult to find a VPN you can trust to protect your Android. There are hundreds of fake VPN apps on the Google Play Store that can harm your Android with malware. In addition, you can't depend on most of them to protect you the way they claim.
My team and I tested over 100 Android VPNs to find the safest ones that offer full protection. We also tested each to ensure they have great speeds, top-notch security features, and reliable global networks. Plus, each VPN on this list is incredibly user-friendly and works great for streaming on your Android.
My top recommendation for Android is ExpressVPN. It's super-fast, with military-grade security features, and thousands of powerful servers that bypass the toughest geoblocks. It’s also compatible with all major operating systems and comes with a money-back guarantee. That means you can test out all of ExpressVPN’s features on your Android completely risk-free. If you’re not happy with it, you have 30 days to claim a full refund.
Short on Time? Here Are the Best VPNs for Android in 2022
- ExpressVPN — Protects your data with enhanced security features and has the fastest speeds for gaming and streaming. Plus, it has an easy-to-use Android app.
- CyberGhost — Large network with optimized servers for streaming and torrenting. Highly secure so you can use your Android safely. However, speeds slow down when you connect to distant servers.
- IPVanish — Superfast servers with an intuitive Android app, giving you customizable protection without compromising speeds. But, it doesn’t work with every streaming platform.
- Private Internet Access — Highly customizable security options and fast speeds for gaming and streaming on Android, but unreliable for accessing Netflix.
- PrivateVPN — Consistently gives you access to the most popular streaming platforms on your Android. Decent speeds for uninterrupted streaming, browsing, and gaming. Unfortunately, it doesn’t offer 24/7 customer support.
The Best VPNs for Android – Full Analysis (Updated February)
1. ExpressVPN — Ultra-Secure Android App With Superfast Speeds for Streaming
- Military-grade encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and an automatic kill switch protects the personal information on your Android
- Superfast speeds for uninterrupted streaming, gaming, torrenting, and browsing with your Android device
- 3,000+ servers in 90 countries to access content from around the world
- 5 simultaneous device connections
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Unblocks: Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Vudu, YouTube TV, and more
- Compatible with: Version 5.0 and up
- Also work with: Windows, Mac, iOS, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, and more
ExpressVPN’s Android app offers world class security to keep you safe online. With military-grade 256-bit encryption coupled with perfect forward secrecy, your online activity is essentially impossible to read. Even if the encryption key was discovered, it wouldn’t work to decrypt anything because it’s changed regularly.
I especially liked that its automatic kill switch warned me that it suspended my internet while the VPN was disconnected. These security features allow you to browse on your Android with the confidence of a safe connection.
ExpressVPN’s Android app offers multiple security protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and its own Lightway protocol. Lightway was designed for use on mobile devices, so it works great on Android. You can switch networks without the VPN disconnecting, and it’s lightweight, which is great for battery life. With the Lightway protocol, it never took me more than a second to connect to a server.
Connecting to ExpressVPN with your Android keeps your online activity anonymous as well. It adheres to an audited and verified no-logs policy — that means none of your data is stored. You’re also protected with IP and DNS leak protection, so your real location is hidden. I tested 15 of its servers for leaks and found none whatsoever.

When I used the Tampa server, my real IP address was completely hidden
ExpressVPN is also located in the privacy-friendly British Virgin Islands, which is outside the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliances. This jurisdiction has no data retention laws, meaning ExpressVPN isn’t legally required to store any of your data. It's also 1 of only a handful of VPNs that's been certified by ioXt. This alliance tested ExpressVPN's Android app to make sure it meets its strict security and privacy requirements and analyzed its level of transparency and other criteria.
It’s also one of the fastest VPNs I’ve ever used on my Android. I tested speeds using both local and long-distance servers and had an average download speed of 49 Mbps. That was only a 3% drop in speed from my base connection, which is impressive. Servers far away from your actual location tend to be slower since your data has to travel farther. But even on the Tokyo server (which is 13,000 km away from me), I only had a 9% drop in speed. This didn’t have any effect on my online activities. With its reliable, superfast speeds, you won’t have to deal with annoying lag or buffering on your phone.

Brazil and Mexico weren’t much slower than this — I didn’t notice any effect on my connection
These impressive speeds are also great for streaming in UltraHD on your Android. You only need 5 Mbps for HD streaming and 25 Mbps for UltraHD. Even on the Tokyo server my speed was 45 Mbps. I was able to watch Spirited Away in UltraHD on Netflix Japan with no buffering.
Additionally, ExpressVPN's 3,000 servers in 90 countries let you access global streaming content on your Android wherever you are. I accessed more than 15 Netflix libraries on my phone, including content from the US, the UK, Australia, and Japan. What's more, there wasn’t a popular streaming platform I couldn’t unblock. ExpressVPN let me load videos from Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video in under a minute every time.
You can also download torrents really fast. I wanted to see how quickly I could download some large torrent files on my Android. So I found Night of the Living Dead and used uTorrent to download the 700 MB file. It only took 12 minutes, so you can stay safe while torrenting on your Android without slowdowns.
One of the best things about ExpressVPN’s Android app is that it’s so easy to use and install. It’s also available for Android TV and Amazon Fire devices. Once I installed it, I could connect to the fastest server based on my location in just one click. The settings menu is laid out intuitively, so you can customize it the way you want. I particularly liked the split tunneling feature, which lets you choose which websites are protected by the VPN and which remain local.

I also found it easy to save and organize my favorite servers
You can also download an APK file from its website and install it manually on your Android device. I found this method easier when I was installing the app on my Android TV. Just keep in mind that you will have to sign up for your subscription on ExpressVPN’s website first. Whichever way you choose to download the app, you’ll be able to set up all your Android (and non-Android) devices in no time.
The cheapest plan starts at $6.67/month, which is a bit more expensive than other VPNs. However, I found that ExpressVPN often offers coupons with big discounts, so you can save a bit to make it more affordable.
If you’re not convinced, ExpressVPN also comes with a money-back guarantee on all plans, which allows you to test the service on your Android (and other devices) before you commit to a subscription. If you’re not happy with it you have 30 days to claim a full refund. I tested this after using the service for 24 days and contacted support over 24/7 live chat. The rep wasn’t pushy and I only had to answer a couple of quick questions about my experience. After 2 minutes, my refund was approved and I had my money back in 3 days.
Try ExpressVPN for Android Today
2. CyberGhost — Specialty Servers and User-Friendly Android App For Uncomplicated Protection
- Optimized servers for smooth streaming and torrenting on your Android
- Easy-to-use Android app to keep your data safe without hassle
- Military-grade encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and a built-in kill switch for ultimate protection on your Android
- 7,670+ servers in 90 countries to access your favorite content on your Android, even when you travel
- Lightning-fast speeds for lag-free browsing, gaming, and streaming
- 45-day money-back guarantee
- Unblocks: Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Vudu, and more
- Compatible with: Version 5.0 and up
- Also works with: Windows, Mac, iOS, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, and more
CyberGhost is one of the best VPNs for streaming on your Android. It works with just about every platform. There’s also optimized servers for specific sites, like Netflix, Spotify, and HBO Max. The specialty servers make it harder for streaming sites to ban IPs by randomly shuffling them each time someone connects.
Its servers are also super fast. I tested 14 of its streaming optimized servers, including the Netflix US one — it worked 12% faster on average than non-optimized locations. I watched 2 entire episodes of Shadow and Bone and didn’t encounter any buffering. Next, I tested it with BBC iPlayer and Disney+; both worked just as well. You'll get uninterrupted content on your Android, wherever you go.
Downloading and navigating the Android app is straightforward, making it a great option if you’re new to VPNs. It only took me a few minutes to sign up and install. To connect, you can use its one-click feature or select a location from the server list.
Unfortunately, it doesn’t offer an APK file like ExpressVPN, but you can easily get it from the Google Play store.

I found out you can tap the star icon to save your favorite server for quick access in the future
Its split tunneling feature allows you to choose which sites it protects in the VPN tunnel and which stay local. On top of this, it offers a built-in ad and malware blocker that you can easily enable within the Android app. I found this feature in the app's privacy settings and turned it on with just one tap.
You can be confident your data will be kept private since CyberGhost follows a strict no-logs policy. In addition, it offers NoSpy servers which are located in Romania, outside of the 5 and 14 Eyes jurisdictions. Since they are owned, operated, and accessed only by CyberGhost employees, NoSpy servers add extra protection by preventing third-party meddling.
It also keeps your information safe with 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and IP/DNS leak protection. These features ensure that your data isn't accidentally exposed, even on an unstable WiFi connection. Just to be sure, I tested it for leaks with an independent tool; it didn’t detect any.
You can choose between 2 security protocol options for Android: OpenVPN or Wireguard. OpenVPN is highly secure because it's open source — this means, it's continuously being analyzed for vulnerabilities and improved upon. That’s why I recommend using it for maximum security. You can also choose the slightly faster (but still secure) WireGuard protocol in the app's privacy settings. These top-notch security features ensure your Android will be well protected.
It also has superfast connection speeds when you use nearby servers. The locations closer to me (Brazil and Miami) produced speeds no lower than 28 Mbps. When I tested it in the UK, it dropped to 18 Mbps, but the distant servers were still fast enough for me to browse without long load times. Its fast speeds held up well for torrenting too; I downloaded a 1.5GB file in 22 minutes. You can browse, stream, and play games on your Android without interruptions.
One downfall is that CyberGhost doesn’t work consistently in a number of countries with strict censorship. This includes the UAE, China, North Korea, and some Middle Eastern countries. However, this may or may not affect you, depending on your travel plans or country of residence.
Subscriptions to CyberGhost are budget-friendly, offering higher discounts for long-term subscriptions. You can get a long-term plan for just $2.15/month. However, CyberGhost’s short-term plans are some of the most expensive I’ve seen (and they only come with a 14-day money-back guarantee).
I recommend opting for a plan that’s at least 6 months. That way you can try CyberGhost out for free using its 45-day money-back guarantee. I tested it for 34 days before asking for my refund. To make my request, I used the live chat option — the agent asked me a few questions then approved the return. After 4 days, I had my money back.
Try CyberGhost With Android Today
3. IPVanish — Superfast With a Customizable Android App to Balance Speeds and Security
- Lightning-fast speeds to browse and stream on your Android with no buffering
- Intuitive Android app with customizable features to give you the protection you need
- Military-grade encryption, a kill switch, and leak protection to keep you safe while you use your Android
- 2,000+ servers in 70 countries to enjoy global streaming platforms and sites on your Android
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Unlimited simultaneous device connections
- Unblocks: Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and more
- Compatible with: Version 5.1 and up
- Also works with: Windows, Mac, iOS, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, and more
IPVanish offers incredibly fast speeds. I tested 6 locations worldwide, including one in my location (Costa Rica) — plus Australia, Japan, Italy, the UK, Brazil, and the US. The fastest server I recorded was the one in my country, giving me 32 Mbps. Even the most distant server I tested (Japan) was 15 Mbps, 3 times what you need to stream in HD. You won't have to deal with long loading times or buffering while connected on your Android.
The Android app is highly intuitive, providing you with information and flexibility to customize your experience. It displays each server's ping and load percentage (how crowded it is), so you'll know which connection is the fastest available. I found its Quick Connect feature helpful; it automatically selects the fastest server for your location.
On top of this, it offers split tunneling so you can choose which sites get routed through the VPN and which don’t. There’s even a port selection option — this is helpful if your ISP throttles or blocks the connection on your Android. If you suspect this, you can simply switch ports to improve speeds.
You can also customize the level of protection you want for your Android. The protocols it offers include Wireguard, IKEv2, OpenVPN, L2TP, and IPSEC. I also found the WiFi protection especially useful. Any time I entered an unsecured network, IPVanish notified me and protected my traffic automatically.

For a faster connection, I looked for a server with a low load percentage (below 75)
It uses top-notch security and privacy features to protect you while you’re using your Android. Perfect Forward Secrecy is combined with 256-bit encryption to keep all of your data hidden. Additionally, IP and DNS leak protection ensures that your information doesn't accidentally get exposed. To make sure you can rely on this, I checked with a leak detecting tool — I didn't find any IP/DNS leaks.
Scramble is an obfuscation feature that hides your VPN use. This is useful if you visit locations that set limitations on their WiFi networks (like libraries or workplaces). To test it, I blocked Facebook on my router, but could still access it with Scramble. This lets you browse freely on your Android, even on restrictive networks.
IPVanish gives you Unlimited simultaneous device connections, which is much more than most VPNs. Plus, it works with virtually every Android device. I tested it out by connecting my phone, laptop, Fire Stick, and tablet at the same time. I didn’t experience any slowdown while I navigated on my phone’s browser. This way, you can keep all of your Android devices protected.
The IPVanish website offers an APK file in case you want to avoid using Google Play. The site also gives detailed instructions on how to download, install, and customize app settings, such as the kill switch. You'll have no problem downloading and setting it up on your Android.
It works with some of the most popular streaming sites, too. I could access Disney+, Netflix US, and HBO Max (but not Hulu or BBC iPlayer) with the Miami server. It even has an app for Kodi, which many VPNs don’t offer. You'll get access to tons of content to watch on your Android.
One negative is that IPVanish is based in the US., which is part of the 14 Eyes Alliance. However, its verified, strict no-logs policy means it won't have anything to share even if the government asked for your data.
You can get an IPVanish subscription for just $3.75/month, which makes it a pretty affordable option. The plans get more expensive the shorter your subscription period, so if you’re only looking to sign up for a month, it’s not the cheapest option.
However, if you sign up for at least a year, you can test IPVanish out before committing to a subscription using its 30 days with its money-back guarantee. I tested this policy after using the VPN for 3 weeks. All I had to do was log in to my customer account and submit a request for a refund. I didn’t even have to speak with an agent or provide a reason. Within 30 minutes, I received an email that my money was on the way; it was back in my account after 4 days.
Try IPVanish With Android Today
4. Private Internet Access — Customizable and Fast to Keep Your Android Running Smoothly
- Customizable APK download and a “choose-your-own” encryption level for your Android
- Ultra-fast servers for uninterrupted browsing, streaming, and gaming on your Android
- 29,650 servers in 70 countries let you access content on your Android from anywhere
- 10 simultaneous device connections
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Unblocks: Netflix, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, Showtime, and more
- Compatible with: Version 5.0 and up
- Also works with: iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, and more
Private Internet Access (PIA) lets you choose how you protect your Android. You can switch to 128-bit encryption to boost speeds with basic security, which is especially useful for torrenting. However, I advise using the 256-bit mode for maximum protection. This option is easy to find in PIA’s settings under “Connection Preferences”.
Your data is kept safe with a combination of security and privacy features. This includes a kill switch and DNS/IP leak protection. I was relieved to find out you can rely on this when I tested PIA with a leak detector; it passed with zero leaks. On top of this, it adheres to a strict no-logs policy, which was proven in 2 court cases.
OpenVPN protects your Android by default, but WireGuard is also available. It's highly secure and also gives you alternative port options, which helped whenever I encountered a connection issue. Otherwise, you can use the WireGuard protocol, which is optimized for speed and security. In any case, you'll be able to use your Android safely and anonymously.

Port options allow you to maximize speeds, which I found very helpful for torrenting
It has lightning-fast servers, so PIA is a great option for streaming, gaming, and torrenting. I tested this by using its New York server to download Night of the Living Dead (again) from Legit Torrents. It only took 26 minutes to finish and my average speeds were only 16% slower than my base connection. With speeds like these, you can use your Android without interruption.
The Android app is easy to download from the Google Play store. However, you don't get the built-in ad and malware blocker (PIA MACE) if you download it from there. I was happy to see that the MACE blocker is included if you download the APK file from PIA's site — it's just as easy to install it that way.
One small con I noted is that PIA didn't work consistently with Netflix or Hulu. I had no issue accessing Netflix Germany and the US library. However, when I tested it in Brazil and Mexico, I was blocked. For this reason, I’d suggest ExpressVPN or CyberGhost if you want to stream Netflix on your Android. On the other hand, PIA worked great with HBO Max and BBC iPlayer, so you'll still get access to tons of content.
PIA gives you flexible payment options and better deals with long-term subscriptions. For instance, if you commit to a 2-year plan, you can get PIA for as little as $2.03/month. It accepts most payment forms, including BEAM — a form of confidential cryptocurrency.
You can also try Private Internet Access out on your Android first using its 30day money-back guarantee. I tested this after 23 days by contacting a live customer service representative. We had a 4-minute chat before my refund was approved; I received my money in 5 days.
5. PrivateVPN — Reliable and Fast for Uninterrupted Streaming on Your Android
- High-speed servers for zero lag while you browse, stream, game, and torrent on your Android
- Ultra-secure with military-grade encryption, a kill switch, and DNS/IP leak protection
- 200 servers in 60 countries to enjoy your favorite content on your Android from anywhere
- 10 simultaneous device connections
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Unblocks: Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, HBO Max, YouTube TV, and more
- Compatible with: Version 4.0 and up
- Also works with: iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, and more
PrivateVPN lets you watch the most popular streaming platforms on your Android device with ease. It worked with every streaming service I tried it with. I was able to watch Fatherhood on Netflix US without any loading times or buffering. It even lets you label the best servers for streaming, so you’ll be able to stream with no issues.
What also makes it great for streaming on your Android, are its consistent speeds. I tested 5 servers (Australia, Switzerland, the US, India, and Japan), and my average rate was 21.17 Mbps. It also offers port forwarding as a configuration option to help increase speeds. You'll always have fast and reliable access to content on your Android.
StealthVPN masks your VPN use, allowing you to use it on restrictive networks. This even allows you to use your VPN on your Android in China and the UAE. I contacted PrivateVPN’s live customer support to make sure this is true; within 1 minute, the agent confirmed that it works in these countries.

All I had to do was go into the app’s settings to find this option
It uses industry-standard security features to protect all of your Android traffic. This includes 256-bit encryption, an Android-dedicated kill switch, and DNS/IP leak protection. I decided to test this with a leak detecting tool, and it passed with no leaks found. Plus, you can choose your preferred security protocol. It offers OpenVPN with UDP/TCP, L2TP, IPsec, PPTP, and IKEv2. All these security features make sure you’ll always be safe from the threat of cyberattacks.
PrivateVPN is an excellent service for torrenting on Android since it supports P2P on all of its servers. On top of this, the service purchases bandwidth directly from top IP transit providers, giving you maximum download speeds. This let me torrent a 2.62 GB file in only 16 minutes! So, you’ll be able to share and download files at top speeds.
Unfortunately, the live chat isn’t available 24/7, so you should keep this in mind if you have any questions or concerns. However, during the hours of operation, the agents are very quick to respond and provide helpful, friendly support.
PrivateVPN is an affordable option, allowing you to subscribe for as little as $2/month. The longer you subscribe for, the cheaper your plan will be. But even the short-term plans are pretty affordable compared to many other VPNs.
PrivateVPN also comes with a hassle-free money-back guarantee. So, if you're not completely satisfied with it after testing it on your Android, you can claim a full refund within 30 days of purchase. When I finished testing (after 24 days), I requested my refund by filling out a short contact form that included my reason for canceling. Within a few hours, I received an email saying that my return had been approved and was on the way. I got my refund 6 days later.
Try PrivateVPN With Android Today
6. VyprVPN — Owns Its Servers for Added Privacy and Security on Your Android
- Highest level of encryption, a kill switch, and DNS/IP leak protection keep your data safe while using your Android
- High-speed servers let you browse, stream, game, and torrent on your Android without interruptions
- 700 servers in 70 countries allow you to access content on your Android from any location
- 5 simultaneous device connections
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Unblocks: Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, YouTube TV, and more
- Compatible with: Version 5.0 and up
- Also works with: iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, and more
VyprVPN offers you a rare security benefit — it owns its server network. Most services rent their servers which adds a third party, leaving room for a (rare, but possible) security breach. I love this unique feature because it adds an extra layer of trust to the service, so you can feel confident your Android and personal data is well protected.
As added assurance, it follows an audited no-logs policy and is based in Switzerland. Switzerland is outside of the 5/9/14 Eyes alliance, so they're not required by law to give out user data, even if government agencies request it. You can be sure your information will be protected from third-party meddling.
It gives you access to its Chameleon protocol, which hides your VPN use. This disguises your traffic, so it works in countries like China and Turkey — I even verified this with a live agent. Usually, obfuscation (or scrambling) slows down your connection, but this didn’t happen when I tested Chameleon.
You can easily activate public WiFi protection and its Block Malicious Sites feature with VyprVPN’s intuitive app. I found Block Malicious Sites unique — it protects your Android in case you accidentally encounter a fake site intended to steal your data or infect your device.

Other customization options I tested include the kill switch, protocols, and automatic reconnect
The Android app is intuitive and can be customized to fit your needs. One feature I found useful is split tunneling. I tested this out by excluding Expedia from the VPN tunnel. When I visited the site, it loaded in my region so that I could access local flight deals.
One minor negative is that speeds slow down at long distances. Far away servers, like Spain, gave me around 12 Mbps. However, servers close to me like Miami and Brazil, gave me fast average speeds (44 Mbps). Fortunately, with so many servers spaced around the globe, you’re sure to find a close location with a fast connection.
VyprVPN offers great value at $8.33/month. When I signed up, I even got 6 months added to my plan, so this is a budget-friendly VPN.
You can also test VyprVPN out first to see if it's for you because it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. I tested the policy myself and it was hassle-free. You can request a refund via email or 24/7 live chat (like I did). It only took 7 days before I had my money back.
Try VyprVPN With Android Today
7. HMA — Specialty Servers for Fast Streaming and Torrenting on Android
- Specialty servers for streaming and torrenting on your Android
- Ultra-secure with 256-bit encryption, a smart kill switch, and DNS/IP leak protection
- 1,080 servers in 210 countries to enjoy your favorite content wherever you go
- 5 simultaneous device connections
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Unblocks: Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, YouTube TV, and more
- Compatible with: Version 6.0 and up
- Also works with: iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, and more
Hide My Ass (HMA) offers you tons of streaming and P2P-optimized servers. I decided to test its Netflix US server, and there was no buffering or loading times like I got with the Phoenix (non-optimized) server. You'll have quick and easy access to content on your Android.
Your online activity is kept anonymous when connected to HMA on your Android. It offers leak protection, a kill switch, and IP shuffling. I tested the IP shuffling feature and set it to activate every 30 minutes. Afterwards, I noticed the app connecting my Android to a new IP address every half hour. This is a great feature to help keep your data safe from prying eyes. I also really liked its WiFi Threat scan feature, which will send you a notification if you connect to an untrusted network or a hacking attempt is detected (even if you don't have the VPN running).
The Android app is super easy to download, set up, and navigate. It only took a few minutes for me to download and install it. The Lightning Connect feature will instantly give you the fastest server available. You can manage most security features (like IP shuffle) just as easily in the settings. Protecting your Android is hassle-free.

For instant protection at top speeds, I used its Lightning Connect feature
You get good speeds when you connect Android to nearby servers. I tested a few US locations (Phoenix, LA, Chicago), and my base speed only decreased by 8% at most. However, the distant servers, Japan and Egypt, gave me an 85% decrease (7 Mbps). That being said, its network is extensive and includes servers optimized for speed so you can always find a fast connection.
One downfall to consider is that HMA keeps partial logs. This includes your connection times, duration, and bandwidth usage. On the other hand, HMA explains that this is simply for diagnostic purposes, and it never logs any identifiable data from its users. Other VPNs like ExpressVPN don’t need to store this data, so keep this in mind if you’re concerned about privacy.
You can get a subscription to HMA for $2.99/month. The price goes up if you want more simultaneous device connections or if you want a shorter subscription plan.
If you’re not convinced, you can try HMA on your Android for up to 30 days and claim a refund if you're not happy with it. When I tested this money-back guarantee policy, I had no problem getting my refund. I just filled out a contact form, and an agent emailed me the same day to say it was approved. After 7 days, I got the money back.
8. ProtonVPN — Privacy-Focused to Keep Your Online Android Use Anonymous
- Highly reputable Swiss-based company with a strict no-logs policy to ensure your privacy is protected on your Android
- Uses 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and DNS/IP leak protection to keep the data on your Android secure
- 1,610 servers in 60 countries to enjoy your favorite content on Android, wherever you go
- 10 simultaneous device connections
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Unblocks: Netflix, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, YouTube TV, and more
- Compatible with: Version 5.0 and up
- Also works with: iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, and more
If it’s undeniable privacy protection you seek for your Android, ProtonVPN is for you. One of its founders also created ProtonMail, a free and encrypted email platform. On top of this, Proton has been actively advocating for the protection of internet freedom for years. The company even campaigned to prevent restrictive laws in its home base of Switzerland.
The fact that it operates in this country is also a privacy benefit as it doesn’t fall under 5/9/14 Eyes jurisdiction. Its Android app is even open-source and independently audited, proving ProtonVPN is serious about your privacy. The benefit to open source apps is that they are regularly checked for vulnerabilities. I looked into the audits and easily found the full reports on its website, which shows how transparent it is with its customers.
I got good speeds on my Android with the paid subscription; however, its free plan is noticeably slower. I ran tests on 3 free server locations: Japan, the Netherlands, and the US. Each displayed a load percentage of 96-98% full, and my speeds were only 2 Mbps.

The server profiles allowed me to bookmark servers and the sites they work best with
When I tested the paid server in Dallas, it was much faster (44 Mbps) and had a load percentage of only 49%. Out of its subscription tiers, I recommend getting its Plus plan which lets you connect 10 devices and use all its optimized servers.
I was surprised to see that ProtonVPN doesn’t offer live chat support. The only way to submit an inquiry is by email or a support ticket. However, this wasn’t a significant issue for me. When I submitted a ticket with a question, it took less than 24 hours before an agent responded with a helpful answer.
Even though ProtonVPN offers a free plan, I don’t recommend it because it was too slow to even browse on my Android. Luckily it’s not too expensive to upgrade to a paid plan — you can sign up for just $6.63/month. This is the most basic paid plan, so if you want a full-featured version, you’ll have to pay more.
In addition, when you subscribe directly through its website, you can try ProtonVPN’s paid plans out first because it has a 30-day money-back guarantee. Unlike most VPNs’ money-back guarantees, ProtonVPN will only refund your money based on the remaining days of your subscription. However, this policy is still reliable. When I tested it, I got my money back, but it took almost 2 weeks to arrive.
Try ProtonVPN With Android Today
9. TunnelBear — User-Friendly Android App Makes Staying Safe Online Easy
- User-friendly, cute, and fun Android app to keep your VPN use pain-free
- OpenVPN protocol with 256-bit encryption, Vigilant Mode, and GhostBear protect your Android phone
- 2,600 servers in 40 countries gives you access to global content on the go
- 5 simultaneous device connections
- Unblocks: Netflix, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, HBO Max, and more
- Compatible with: Version 5.0 and up
- Also works with: iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, and more
With its unique and interactive features, TunnelBear gives your Android fun, user-friendly security. While testing, I found the map feature helpful — you just tap on a jar of honey in the location you want to use, and it connects you within seconds. It’s perfect if you’re new to VPNs.

I didn't have to hassle with manual configuration to use TunnelBear
It’s also a good option for streaming on Android (but it’s not great for torrenting). Only some of its servers support torrenting, and there are no P2P specialized servers. However, it let me unblock Netflix US, HBO Max, and Hulu; unfortunately, I couldn’t unlock Disney+. Overall, it works with most streaming platforms and gives you a stable connection.
You get pretty consistent speeds with TunnelBear. First, I tested a few nearby servers in Miami, Brazil, and Costa Rica. I found an average speed of 28.73 Mbps. Long distance servers gave me an average of 24.21 Mbps, which impressed me. This means you can stream, game, and torrent on your Android with minimal lag.
It offers you 3 different plans to choose from — including a free one. The free plan is full-featured but capped at 500 MB of data per month. This is a great option for testing the VPN with your Android, as long as you don’t use much data.
One negative is that TunnelBear is based out of Canada, a part of the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance. However, even if an agency were to request user information from TunnelBear, it would have none to provide since it adheres to a no-logs policy.
What I found most disappointing is that TunnelBear doesn’t come with a money-back guarantee. So you’ll be stuck using the limited free version if you want to try it before committing to a subscription. However, it does offer affordable prices and you can sign up for just $3.33/month.
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10. hide.me — Private DNS Servers Keep Your Android Secure
- Private DNS on every server ensures your online Android use stays anonymous
- 2,000 servers in 40 countries to disguise your real location
- Well-equipped free plan available for Android
- 10 simultaneous device connections
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Unblocks: Netflix, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and more
- Compatible with: Version 6.0 and up
- Also works with: iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, and more
This Android VPN keeps your personal information safe since it uses Private DNS on all of its servers. DNS is a unique code sent out from your device each time you access websites, which can allow advertisers, hackers, and governments to spy on your data. With PrivateDNS, you get an extra layer of protection on top of encryption so that cybercriminals won’t be able to track you.
Your online activity is kept secure and anonymous on your Android because hide.me adheres to a no-logs policy. It also offers leak protection and an automatic kill switch. During my tests, I used a tool to test for DNS/IP leaks — to my relief, it didn’t find any.
You can use hide.me with just about any streaming platform. I tested it with Netflix (US and Japan), HBO Max, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and DAZN. I had no problem accessing my accounts, and I didn’t encounter any buffering. It also performed really well when I tried it with Call of Duty: Mobile — I didn't experience any long loading times or lag when connected to local servers. You can enjoy your favorite content from any location.
Its free plan isn’t bad, but I still recommend the paid subscription. With the free version, you won’t get bombarded with the annoying ads you find on most free VPNs — plus, you get access to customer support, all of its security protocols, and 10 GB per month. However, you are limited to 5 server locations and 1 device connection. I also couldn’t access Netflix or Disney+ on free servers, which are easy to unblock with the paid plan. So, the free plan is a decent way to test it out before you buy.
The only con I found with hide.me is that its short-term plans are quite expensive. If you’re looking for a short-term subscription, IPVanish has better prices. However, if you want a VPN for the long-term you can get hide.me for $3.84/month.
The upside is that you can try it out for 30 days with its money-back guarantee for all plans. When I tested it, all I had to do was write an email to request my refund. There were no questions asked. I was approved for the return within 24 hours. The next week, I got the money back in my account.
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Quick Comparison Table: Android VPN Features
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Tips on How to Choose the Best Android VPN
A quality VPN for Android should provide you with strong security, fast speeds, and reliability. I chose the VPNs in my list based on these criteria. Here is a breakdown of what to look for:
- Powerful security — The bare minimum it should offer to keep you secure is 256-bit encryption, a kill-switch, and DNS/IP leak protection.
- User-friendly Android apps — Be sure the Android app is well-designed and comparable to the desktop version.
- Fast speeds — Fast servers help reduce lag or buffering for streaming, gaming, browsing, and torrenting on your Android.
- Extensive server network — More servers will help you avoid overcrowding and allow you to access more global content with your Android from any location.
- Can unblock streaming services — Check that the VPN lets you access your favorite streaming sites on your Android.
- Privacy protection — I recommend making sure it follows a strict no-logs policy; it’s even better if it has independent audits and transparency reports along with being located outside of the 5/9/14 Eyes jurisdiction.
- Hassle-free money-back guarantee — Look for a free trial or, even better, a risk-free money-back guarantee. This way you can test the VPN on your Android before committing to a full subscription.
- Reliable customer support — It’s best if the service offers a 24/7 live chat feature in the Android app. I tested each VPN for the quality of its customer service — regardless of the method, they all replied within 24 hours.
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Quick Guide: How to Set Up an Android VPN in 3 Easy Steps
- Download a VPN. ExpressVPN is my top recommendation for Android because it offers the fastest speeds, strong security, and it’s super reliable.
- Install the app. Download the app from the Play Store to install it. You can also get an APK file directly from most VPN providers’ websites.
- Connect to a server. Choose a location from the server list, click connect, and you’re ready to enjoy safe streaming, browsing, gaming, and more on your Android!
Android VPNs You Should Avoid
Unfortunately, not all VPNs can be trusted. You should always read the company's privacy policy carefully to be sure it will protect your Android sufficiently. Here are some examples of shady policies I encountered while testing:
- Betternet — This service tracks your Android use with cookies and bombards you with ads. It also logs tons of identifiable user data including your location, so you're never truly anonymous.
- CloudVPN — It offers unlimited bandwidth to grab your attention but collaborates with third parties to promote ads. It also states in its policy that it stores cookies and collects users’ personal information, device data, and IP addresses.
- Opera — This is a free VPN for Android browsers, but it’s not secure. Its privacy policy even states that it tracks you with an anonymous ID. It collects data about your device, including the OS, feature usage, configurations, and hardware specifications.
- Hola — This VPN does not encrypt your traffic. Instead, it runs on a P2P network that switches your IP address with another user’s. This puts you at risk of being linked to illegal activities that you had nothing to do with. It also logs tons of customer data.
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FAQs on Android VPNs
What’s the best VPN for an Android TV?
ExpressVPN is the best choice because it has a native app for Android TV. This makes it super easy to download, install, and set up. What’s more, it’s compatible with Nvidia Shield, Chromecast, and more. Even if there isn’t an app available for your TV, ExpressVPN has great router support, so you can connect with any device.
Are there Android VPN browsers?
Yes, but they are not the most secure. This includes Opera and Aloha, which don’t have the best reputations as they collect and sell tons of user data.
The best way to protect your browsing traffic is with a reliable and trusted VPN. A good VPN will protect you with strong encryption, a kill switch, a no-logs policy, and DNS/IP leak protection. Android VPN browsers simply do not offer most, if any, of these features.
Which Android VPN is best for Netflix?
ExpressVPN is the best VPN for Netflix because it has a huge server network and is superfast. It has thousands of servers with worldwide coverage, allowing you to access the most content. Plus, it's ultra-fast — when I tested its speeds they were fast enough to stream in UltraHD without any buffering.
Can I get a free VPN for Android?
Yes, but I advise against it. It’s simply not worth saving an extra few bucks a month. There are plenty of reputable VPNs, like the ones on this list, that offer a money-back guarantee or a free trial for you to test them out.
The first issue is that some of the free "VPNs" on Google Play are fake. They're created for the sole purpose of hacking your Android or infecting it with malware. Secondly, even legitimate free VPNs compromise on speeds, reliability, and security.
Can I use my Android VPN on my PC?
Yes, you can! All of the VPNs in this list are compatible with all major operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux. Plus, they allow for more than one simultaneous device connection. So, if you download a VPN for your Android phone, you can also download its app for your PC to keep all your devices protected.
Can I share my Android VPN connection over a WiFi hotspot?
Unfortunately, you can’t. This is because Android devices don’t allow other devices to share a VPN tunnel. When you share your hotspot, your device will default to using your actual IP address.
However, it does make a big difference in speeds when you use a superfast VPN and share your connection. Usually, sharing a hotspot slows you down a lot. This is because it has to travel through another device, rather than directly to the device you want connected. So it's best to use a VPN with really fast speeds (like ExpressVPN).
What is the best VPN for Android tablets?
The best VPN for Android tablets is ExpressVPN — it’s highly secure, ultra-fast, and works reliably for streaming, torrenting, gaming, and more. Plus, its native app is quick and easy to set up on an Android tablet. The app is available on Google Play for Android versions 5.0 and newer. For older Androids (4.0 and up), an APK file is available.
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Get the Best VPN for Android Today!
With so many untrustworthy services out there, it's difficult to determine which VPNs will actually keep your Android safe. These Android VPNs offer strong security and privacy features that will protect your data. On top of that, they’re all user-friendly and come with extra perks like the ability to access geoblocked streaming sites, WiFi protection, and more.
My top recommendation for Android is ExpressVPN. It uses powerful security protocols and privacy features to ensure no one can spy on your activity. Plus, it’s one of the fastest VPNs I’ve tested, so you can enjoy streaming, torrenting, and gaming without interruption. You can even try ExpressVPN out on your Android completely risk-free since it gives you the assurance of a 30-day money-back guarantee. If it’s not for you, you can easily claim a refund.
To summarise, the best VPNs for Android are…