Android smartphones are more powerful than ever — but they’re also more exposed. Whether you’re streaming on public Wi-Fi, accessing geo-restricted content, or simply wanting to secure your online activity, a VPN for Android is a must-have in 2025.
In this guide, we review the 10 best VPNs for Android, carefully tested for speed, privacy, streaming, torrenting, ease of use, and value.
Why Do You Need a VPN for Android?
Before diving into the top picks, here’s why every Android user should consider installing a reliable VPN app:
- Protects your data on public Wi-Fi
- Masks your IP address and location
- Unlocks geo-restricted streaming apps (like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer)
- Secures mobile banking and online shopping
- Blocks trackers and malware (in some VPNs)
What Makes a Great Android VPN?
When choosing a VPN for your Android phone or tablet, here are the key features to look for:
- ✔️ Easy-to-use Android app
- ✔️ No logs and strong encryption
- ✔️ Fast speeds for streaming and browsing
- ✔️ Works with Netflix, YouTube, and other apps
- ✔️ Affordable pricing and money-back guarantee
- ✔️ Bonus: Ad-blocker, split tunneling, and kill switch
Top 10 Best VPNs for Android in 2025
Let’s dive into the top-rated VPN apps for Android devices.
1. ExpressVPN – Best Overall VPN for Android
Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)
Best For: Speed, privacy, and streaming
Why It Stands Out:
ExpressVPN delivers unmatched performance with an intuitive Android app, blazing speeds, and rock-solid privacy.
Key Features:
- 3,000+ servers in 105 countries
- Industry-leading AES-256 encryption
- Works with Netflix, Hulu, Disney+
- Lightway protocol for fast and reliable connection
- Kill switch, split tunneling, and no-logs policy
Pros:
- Excellent speeds on mobile
- Clean and easy-to-use interface
- Based in privacy-friendly British Virgin Islands
Cons:
- Slightly pricier than some alternatives
Starting Price: $6.67/month (with 30-day money-back guarantee)
2. NordVPN – Most Secure VPN for Android
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.9/5)
Best For: Privacy and security
Highlights:
- Advanced security features (Double VPN, Threat Protection)
- 6,000+ servers in 60+ countries
- WireGuard-based NordLynx protocol
- Built-in ad and malware blocker
Pros:
- Great speeds and streaming access
- Strong no-logs policy (audited)
- Works well even on low-end Android phones
Cons:
- UI can feel cluttered to some users
Starting Price: $3.99/month
3. Surfshark – Best Budget VPN for Android
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.8/5)
Best For: Unlimited devices and affordability
What We Like:
- Unlimited device connections
- Clean UI and minimal battery drain
- Built-in GPS spoofing on Android
Pros:
- Extremely affordable
- Fast speeds with WireGuard
- Strong streaming and torrenting support
Cons:
- Fewer advanced features than Nord or Express
Starting Price: $2.49/month
4. CyberGhost – Best for Streaming on Android
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.7/5)
Best For: Watching geo-blocked content
Streaming-Optimized Servers:
- Netflix, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer, Hulu
- 9,000+ servers in 90+ countries
- Easy “For Streaming” tab in the app
Pros:
- Excellent UI for beginners
- Solid privacy and speed
- 45-day money-back guarantee
Cons:
- Doesn’t offer many advanced settings
Starting Price: $2.03/month
5. Proton VPN – Best Free VPN for Android
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5)
Best For: Free plan users
Why Choose ProtonVPN:
- 100% free plan with no data limit
- Based in Switzerland (strong privacy laws)
- Open-source and audited
Pros:
- Free version has no ads or speed throttling
- Premium unlocks Secure Core and Tor servers
Cons:
- Free version offers limited countries
- Slower than paid competitors
Starting Price: Free / Paid starts at $4.99/month
6. Private Internet Access (PIA)
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
Best For: Customization lovers
Highlights:
- 10,000+ servers in 90+ countries
- Open-source Android app
- Strong kill switch and customizable settings
Pros:
- Good speed and security
- Advanced options for power users
Cons:
- Based in the US (not ideal for privacy purists)
Starting Price: $2.19/month
7. Atlas VPN
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
Best For: Beginners and free users
What’s Included:
- WireGuard support
- Tracker blocker and SafeSwap servers
- Unlimited connections
Pros:
- Free plan available
- Simple UI for Android
Cons:
- Smaller server network
- Limited advanced features
Starting Price: Free / Paid from $1.83/month
8. TunnelBear
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5)
Best For: Simplicity and design
Notable Features:
- Adorable bear-themed UI
- 47 countries available
- No logs, annual audit
Pros:
- Great for non-tech users
- Very beginner-friendly
Cons:
- Free plan limited to 500MB/month
- No streaming support
Starting Price: Free / Paid from $3.33/month
9. Mullvad VPN
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.3/5)
Best For: Hardcore privacy enthusiasts
Highlights:
- No email required to sign up
- Accepts anonymous cash payments
- Open-source Android app
Pros:
- Extremely privacy-focused
- No marketing fluff or gimmicks
Cons:
- No streaming support
- UI is very basic
Flat Price: €5/month (no discounts)
10. Windscribe VPN
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.2/5)
Best For: Versatility and ad blocking
What You Get:
- Free plan with 10GB/month
- R.O.B.E.R.T. ad/tracker blocker
- Split tunneling and stealth mode
Pros:
- Works in restricted regions (e.g., China)
- Many advanced features
Cons:
- Occasionally buggy on Android
Starting Price: Free / Paid from $5.75/month
Comparison Table: Best VPNs for Android
| VPN Name | Speed | Android App | Streaming | Free Plan | Price (Starting) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ExpressVPN | ★★★★★ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | $6.67/mo |
| NordVPN | ★★★★☆ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | $3.99/mo |
| Surfshark | ★★★★☆ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | $2.49/mo |
| CyberGhost | ★★★★☆ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | $2.03/mo |
| Proton VPN | ★★★☆☆ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | Free |
How to Set Up a VPN on Android (Quick Guide)
- Choose and download a VPN app from Google Play Store
- Sign up or log in
- Grant permissions (like VPN access)
- Tap “Connect” to secure your connection
- Optional: Use split tunneling or auto-connect settings
FAQ – Best VPNs for Android (2025)
1. Are VPNs legal to use on Android in all countries?
Most countries allow VPN usage, but some (like China, Russia, and Iran) have restrictions. Always check local laws.
2. Can I use a free VPN for Android safely?
Only a few free VPNs (like ProtonVPN and Windscribe) are safe. Avoid shady apps with no privacy policy or unlimited “free” claims.
3. What’s the best VPN for Netflix on Android?
ExpressVPN and NordVPN work best for streaming Netflix and other platforms reliably.
4. Will a VPN slow down my Android internet speed?
A slight drop is normal, but premium VPNs using WireGuard (like Surfshark, NordVPN) maintain excellent speed.
5. Do VPNs drain battery on Android?
Minimal impact, especially if the app is well-optimized. Light protocols like WireGuard use less battery than older ones.
Conclusion: Which VPN is Best for Your Android Device?
The best Android VPN depends on your needs:
- Want the fastest all-rounder? Go for ExpressVPN.
- Need strong security? NordVPN is your best bet.
- Looking for a free plan or budget option? Try ProtonVPN or Surfshark.
No matter which one you pick from this list, all offer safe, encrypted, and private browsing on your Android phone or tablet.
