Best Android VPNs of 2024
- Our Methodology and Criteria
- Features
- Speed
- Usability
- Play Store Reviews
- Update Frequency
- Customer Support
- NordVPN for Android
- Features:
- Server Categories:
- Performance and Usability:
- Limitations:
- Conclusion:
- Surfshark for Android
- Features:
- Security and Privacy:
- Server Infrastructure:
- Performance:
- Conclusion:
- CyberGhost for Android: A Comprehensive Review
- Features:
- Security and Privacy:
- Server Infrastructure:
- Performance:
- Limitations:
- Conclusion:
- ProtonVPN for Android: A Comprehensive Review
- Features:
- Security and Privacy:
- Server Infrastructure:
- Performance:
- Limitations:
- Conclusion:
- AtlasVPN for Android: A Comprehensive Review
- Features:
- Security and Privacy:
- Server Infrastructure:
- Platform Compatibility:
- Performance and Usability:
- Areas for Improvement:
- Conclusion:
- Hide.me for Android: A Comprehensive Review
- Features:
- Security and Privacy:
- Server Infrastructure:
- Platform Compatibility:
- Performance and Usability:
- Areas for Improvement:
- Customer Feedback:
- Conclusion:
We’ve answered the question of which VPN service is the best in 2024 in our in-depth review already (read more here). But for platform compatibility and especially mobile usage via a native App, there are differences. In this review we looked at the best services for Android in 2024.
Our Methodology and Criteria
In our quest to crown the best Android VPN, we employed a meticulous and comprehensive approach, aligning our selection process with specific criteria deemed crucial for a superior VPN experience.
Here's an in-depth look at our methodology and why each criterion is vital:
Features
The features of a VPN define its capability to provide security, privacy, and additional utilities. We looked for key attributes like encryption strength, kill switch, server diversity, and special features like double VPN or ad-blocking.
Each VPN was examined for the breadth and depth of its features. We prioritized those offering unique and advanced functionalities that enhance user security and experience.
Speed
VPN speed impacts everything from browsing to streaming and gaming. A good VPN should offer fast speeds without significant drops. We conducted speed tests across multiple servers and compared them to baseline non-VPN speeds to gauge performance drops.
Usability
A user-friendly interface ensures that the VPN can be easily used by both novices and tech-savvy individuals. Usability impacts how quickly one can find and connect to the desired server, customize settings, and troubleshoot issues.
Apps were evaluated on their design, ease of navigation, and the intuitiveness of their settings and features.
Play Store Reviews
Play Store reviews offer insights into real user experiences, highlighting strengths and potential issues not evident in a controlled test environment. We analyzed both the quantity and quality of reviews, looking for patterns in user satisfaction and complaints.
Update Frequency
Regular updates reflect the developer's commitment to improving the app, fixing bugs, enhancing security, and adding new features. We checked the update history for each VPN, noting the frequency and nature of updates released.
Customer Support
Effective customer support is crucial for resolving issues, providing guidance, and ensuring uninterrupted service. We assessed the availability, responsiveness, and helpfulness of each VPN’s customer support team.
NordVPN for Android
Play Store Review: 4.3/5 | Reviews: 818,000 | Downloads: 50M+
Features:
- Encryption: Employs AES-256 encryption, the gold standard in the industry, ensuring military-grade data protection.
- Kill Switch: Automatically cuts internet traffic if the VPN connection drops, preventing data leaks.
- Split Tunneling: Allows selective use of VPN for specific apps or websites, balancing security and speed.
- Simultaneous Device Support: Up to 6 devices can be connected simultaneously, catering to both individual and family needs.
- Server Network: Over 5400 servers in 59 countries, offering a vast network for optimal performance and reduced server load.
Server Categories:
- Standard Servers: Ideal for everyday use, providing encrypted and fast connections.
- Double VPN: Offers an extra layer of security, sending traffic through two servers for double encryption and IP disguise.
- Onion Over VPN: Combines VPN tunneling with The Onion Router (Tor) for enhanced privacy, especially in surveillance-heavy regions.
- P2P Servers: Dedicated for peer-to-peer connections, optimized for high-bandwidth activities like file sharing or torrenting.
- Dedicated IP Servers: Useful for services requiring a consistent IP, such as online banking or web servers.
- Obfuscated Servers: Designed to bypass internet restrictions and VPN blocking, ideal for countries with strict internet censorship.
Performance and Usability:
- Praised for maintaining fast download speeds, essential for gaming and streaming.
- User-friendly interface, suitable for both beginners and advanced users.
Limitations:
- Restricted to six simultaneous connections per license.
- Customer support primarily in English, with potential for improvement in other languages.
- Average country selection, as per some user feedback.
Conclusion:
Despite minor limitations, NordVPN's commitment to privacy, robust security features, and extensive server network firmly establish it as a top choice for Android VPN users in 2024.
Surfshark for Android
Play Store Review: 3.8/5 | Reviews: 85,000 | Downloads: 10M+
Features:
- Kill Switch: Protects data during unexpected VPN disconnections.
- Split Tunneling: Offers selective VPN usage for apps or websites, optimizing security and speed.
- Concurrent Devices: Supports an unprecedented 101 devices simultaneously, ideal for multi-device users.
- Double VPN: Routes traffic through two servers, enhancing security.
- Unlimited Bandwidth: No data caps, ensuring uninterrupted streaming and downloads.
- Dedicated IP: Available for users needing a consistent IP address for secure network access.
Security and Privacy:
- AES-256 Encryption: Ensures top-tier security standard for data protection.
- No-Logs Policy: User browsing data is never stored or shared, maintaining privacy.
- DNS and IPv6 Leak Protection: Guards online identity and activities.
- Independent Security Audits: Validates the integrity and security of the service.
- RAM-Only Servers: Enhances privacy, as no user data is stored on physical hard drives.
Server Infrastructure:
- Extensive Network: Over 3200 servers across 65 countries, surpassing many competitors.
- Broad Geographic Coverage: Ensures high-speed performance and reliable connections globally.
- Specialized Server Options: Includes static IP, multi-hop, and P2P servers for varied use cases.
Performance:
- Maintains adequate speeds for streaming, gaming, and browsing, even on distant servers.
- Demonstrates the capability to bypass geo-restrictions on major streaming platforms like Netflix.
- Suitable for torrenting with secure file-sharing capabilities.
Conclusion:
Surfshark emerges as a versatile and robust VPN service for Android, offering a comprehensive suite of features, extensive server network, and a strong focus on user privacy and security, all at a competitive price point. Its capability to support an extensive number of devices simultaneously and its commitment to user privacy through RAM-only servers make it a noteworthy choice in the VPN market.
CyberGhost for Android: A Comprehensive Review
Play Store Review: 4.2/5 | Reviews: 149,000 | Downloads: 10M+
Features:
- AES-256 Encryption: Ensures top-tier security for data protection.
- OpenVPN and WireGuard Protocols: Supports modern and secure VPN protocols.
- Kill Switch: Cuts off internet connection if the VPN drops, securing data.
- Split Tunneling: Allows selective application use of VPN for optimized performance.
- Concurrent Devices: Supports up to 7 devices simultaneously under one subscription.
- Ad and Malware Blocker: Enhances online safety.
Security and Privacy:
- No-Logs Policy: Ensures user browsing data remains private.
- DNS and IPv6 Leak Protection: Adds an extra layer of security for online sessions.
- Independent Security Audits: Affirm the service's security and transparency.
Server Infrastructure:
- Broad Geographic Coverage: Over 9100 servers across 91 countries, offering global reach.
- One-Click Connect: Simplifies connection to the best server based on location and needs.
- NoSpy Servers: Operated independently, located outside the 14 Eyes surveillance alliance for added privacy.
- P2P Torrenting Servers: Dedicated servers optimized for P2P traffic and unlimited bandwidth.
Performance:
- Noted for its user-friendliness, suitable for those new to VPNs.
- Specialized servers for gaming, streaming, and torrenting.
- Speed performance can be inconsistent across different servers.
Limitations:
- Lacks advanced features like Multi-Hop and high-grade hashing algorithms.
- Performance less reliable in heavily censored countries
Conclusion:
CyberGhost offers a strong combination of user-friendliness, robust security, and affordability, making it a solid choice for many Android VPN users. Its expansive server network and specialized servers for various activities, along with its commitment to privacy, position it as a versatile VPN option, despite some limitations in speed consistency and advanced features.
ProtonVPN for Android: A Comprehensive Review
Play Store Review: 4.3/5 | Reviews: 94,100 | Downloads: 10m+
Features:
- AES-256 Encryption: Ensures top-tier security, considered nearly unbreakable.
- OpenVPN and WireGuard Protocols: Provides support for the latest secure VPN protocols.
- Kill Switch: Protects against data leaks during VPN connection drops.
- Split Tunneling: Offers selective routing of VPN traffic for specific apps or sites.
- Concurrent Devices: Supports connecting up to 10 devices simultaneously under one account.
- Double VPN: Routes traffic through two VPN servers for enhanced security and anonymity.
- Ad and Malware Blocker: Shields users from harmful online threats.
Security and Privacy:
- No-Logs Policy: Maintains user privacy by not collecting or storing user activity data.
- DNS and IPv6 Leak Protection: Adds extra layers of security for online sessions.
- Warrant Canary: Provides transparency regarding legal requests for data.
- Independent Security Audits: Confirms the service's security integrity.
Server Infrastructure:
- Large Server Network: Over 1700 servers across 60+ countries, offering a wide range of choices for connection.
- Broad Platform Compatibility: Available on Windows, Android, iOS, Mac, Linux, and with browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox.
Performance:
- Consistent Speeds: Performs well with both local and distant servers, suitable for browsing, torrenting, and streaming.
- Streaming Capabilities: Capable of unblocking Netflix US and other region-locked content (not available with the free plan).
Limitations:
- Lack of RAM-Disk Servers: Potential data security concern.
- Slightly Confusing Menu Design: Could impact user experience.
- Pricing: Leans towards the expensive side, which may deter some users.
Conclusion:
ProtonVPN stands out with its strong commitment to security, privacy, and transparency, backed by Swiss data protection laws. Its extensive server network, support for multiple devices, and robust security features make it a reliable choice for Android users. Despite certain limitations, its performance in speed and streaming, along with the option for a free plan, positions it as a strong contender in the VPN market.
AtlasVPN for Android: A Comprehensive Review
Play Store Review: 4.2/5 | Reviews: 109,000 | Downloads: 5m+
Features:
- Unlimited Concurrent Devices: Supports a remarkable number of devices simultaneously, ideal for large households or businesses.
- AES-256 Encryption and Kill Switch: Provides strong data protection and security in case of VPN connection drops.
- Split Tunneling: Allows selective application of VPN to manage data usage effectively.
- Unlimited Bandwidth: Offers unrestricted internet access without data caps.
- Double VPN: Enhances security by routing internet traffic through two servers.
Security and Privacy:
- No-Logs Policy: Ensures user data and activities are not recorded or tracked.
- DNS and IPv6 Leak Protection: Adds additional layers of security for online activities.
- WireGuard Protocol: Implements this modern protocol for high performance and security.
- Independent Security Audits and Warrant Canary: Demonstrates a commitment to transparency and user security.
Server Infrastructure:
- 750 Servers in 47 Countries: Provides a substantial global network for robust service.
- Unique Features: SafeSwap and MultiHop servers for enhanced privacy and security, although limited to certain regions.
Platform Compatibility:
- Broad Support: Available on Windows, Android, iOS, Mac, and Linux, but lacks browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, or Edge.
Performance and Usability:
- Positive User Feedback: Well-received on various platforms, including a 4.2 score on Trustpilot and high ratings on app stores.
- Network Reliability and Ease of Use: Praised for its network uptime and user-friendly interface.
Areas for Improvement:
- Lack of Certain Advanced Features: Missing some advanced VPN functionalities and limited payment options.
- Data Collection Concerns: Some reports of default user data collection for marketing purposes, which may be a privacy concern for some users.
Conclusion:
AtlasVPN, a relatively new player in the VPN market, offers a blend of robust security features, unlimited device connections, and user-friendly policies, all at a competitive price. While it lacks some advanced features and browser extensions, its commitment to user privacy and the unique SafeSwap and MultiHop servers make it a compelling choice for Android users seeking a versatile and affordable VPN solution.
Hide.me for Android: A Comprehensive Review
Play Store Review: 4.4/5 | Reviews: 27,000 | Downloads: 1m+
Features:
- Support for Up to 10 Devices: Ideal for families or users with multiple devices.
- AES-256 Encryption and Kill Switch: Provides strong security and data protection during VPN drops.
- Split Tunneling: Offers control over which part of the connection uses the VPN.
- Unlimited Bandwidth and Double VPN: Ensures optimal performance and added security.
- DNS and IPv6 Leak Protection: Enhances privacy by preventing leaks of DNS queries and IPv6 addresses.
Security and Privacy:
- No-Logs Policy: Commitment to user privacy with no data storage of browsing history or IP addresses.
- Security Audits: Validates the service's privacy and security claims.
- Jurisdiction: Based in Malaysia, not part of any major intelligence-sharing agreements, enhancing user privacy.
Server Infrastructure:
- Global Presence: Over 90 servers in 48 countries, offering widespread coverage.
- Double VPN: Routes connections through two servers for additional security.
Platform Compatibility:
- Cross-Platform Support: Available on Windows, Android, iOS, Mac, Linux, and browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.
Performance and Usability:
- High Speeds: Known for minimal speed differences with or without VPN, ideal for streaming, gaming, and P2P file sharing.
- User-Friendly: Tailored for ease of use with a simple interface.
Areas for Improvement:
- Limited Streaming Capability: Struggles to bypass Netflix's geo-blocks.
- Latency Issues: Potential latency concerns for gamers when connected to distant servers.
Customer Feedback:
- High Customer Satisfaction: Strong scores on Trustpilot and app stores, indicating positive user experiences.
Conclusion:
Hide.me stands out as a VPN provider that prioritizes privacy, speed, and security. Its robust features, combined with an easy-to-use interface and strong global server presence, make it a compelling choice in the VPN market. While it excels in many areas, users looking for specific streaming capabilities or with gaming needs should consider these aspects before choosing Hide.me.