ExpressVPN works best with all Android devices, including Samsung, Sony, Huawei, and more. It provides best-in-class security to protect your activity and ultra-fast speeds for bufferless streaming. You can test ExpressVPN out completely risk-free as it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee — if you don’t like it, you can easily get a full refund. Try ExpressVPN with your Android device
Quick Guide: 3 Easy Steps to Set Up a VPN on Android
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How to Set Up a VPN on Android Devices
Rather than using the built-in VPN on my phone, tablet, and laptop, I prefer getting a dedicated VPN app for my Android device due to better security and performance. But there are a few ways you can set up a VPN on your devices:
1. Get a VPN App
Installing a dedicated VPN app on your Android device is the simplest way to set up a VPN. Here are step-by-step instructions on how to do it:
2. Use an APK
If you’re using an uncertified Android device, you may not be able to access the official Play Store. In that case, download the VPN APK file from your VPN provider and follow these steps:
3. OpenVPN
If your VPN provider doesn’t have an app or an APK file, you can use an open-source VPN app instead. I’d recommend OpenVPN for Android since it has an intuitive UI, and I found it easier to use in comparison to other apps like OpenVPN connect, VPN Client Pro, and others. It also works well with different configurations. Once you’ve downloaded the OpenVPN app, here’s what you have to do:
4. Router Connection
You can set up a VPN directly on your router and protect all your devices (including your Android devices) connected to that router’s network. I’d usually recommend this method when you need to set up a VPN on devices that do not natively support VPNs, such as Apple TV, Roku, and more — but it works great with Android devices as well. Different routers may have a different process for setting up a VPN on them, but these basic steps will help:
5. Change Android VPN Settings
You can directly set up a VPN on your Android device without requiring an app. This can be done by manually setting up your device’s protocol to L2TP/IPSec in your network settings. There is also an option for PPTP, which I suggest you should avoid because it makes your data vulnerable. The steps to changing VPN settings may vary a little depending on which Android device you’re using, but here are the simple instructions: Get ExpressVPN for Android
The Best VPNs for Android Devices in 2023
1. ExpressVPN — Highly Secure Android Apps With Blazing-Fast Speeds For Streaming
Key Features: ExpressVPN is the best VPN for streaming and gaming on your Android device thanks to its superfast speeds. I tested some of its servers in the US, France, Germany, and Australia, and I got the average speed of around 94 Mbps. That means you can browse, stream in UHD, and play games without any interruptions. It has two protocols for its Android app — OpenVPN and Lightway. Even though OpenVPN is a popular choice because it is open-source and it regularly updates itself to rule out any potential security flaws, I got better speeds with ExpressVPN’s proprietary Lightway protocol. When I tested it on my Android phone, I connected to a server in less than 3 seconds. You can rely on ExpressVPN’s ultra-secure Android apps with robust security features, including:
Military-grade encryption: Comes with AES 256-bit encryption, which is used by government agencies and military organizations to protect sensitive data. No-logs policy (recently audited by KPMG and Cure53): It does not collect its users’ online activity. This ensures that your data remains private. TrustedServer technology: All data is temporarily kept on RAM, which is wiped clean every time the server is rebooted. No data is ever stored on the hard drive. Leak protection: Protect against DNS, IP, and WebRTC leaks to ensure that your online activity remains private even if the VPN connection is lost or compromised. Kill switch: It automatically cuts your internet if the VPN connection is lost, helping to protect your online activity from being exposed. Based in the British Virgin Islands: BVI is a jurisdiction with strong privacy laws and no mandatory data retention requirements, so ExpressVPN can stay log-free. Threat manager: It protects against malicious websites and phishing attacks by blocking them and alerting you when you visit a potentially dangerous site.
I ran some IP/DNS leak tests on multiple ExpressVPN servers — none of them leaked my actual location. When I was switching servers, ExpressVPN blocked my internet traffic to prevent accidental leaks. With servers in over 90 countries, ExpressVPN has an impressive global server network. This is particularly useful for logging into your usual streaming services while you travel. ExpressVPN can help give you access to: I really liked that I could choose which apps on my Android phone automatically run the VPN connection by using its Split Tunneling feature. This way, you can access geo-restricted content with ExpressVPN while accessing your local bank accounts with your regular internet connection. One minor con about ExpressVPN is its expensive subscription plans. I recommend you get its 1-year plan, as it provides the best value. It’s currently available at 49% discount, meaning you can get it for $6.67/month. All subscriptions come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try ExpressVPN risk-free for your Android device. The process was quick and easy. I simply contacted its customer support team through the live chat and explained that I wanted to cancel my subscription. The agent processed the refund right away, and the money was back on my card in 3 days. Try ExpressVPN for Android
2. CyberGhost — Streaming-Optimized Servers And Easy-To-Use Android App
Key Features: CyberGhost is one of the best Android VPNs with streaming optimized servers for Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and some other popular streaming services. These servers make it nearly impossible for streaming services to ban their IPs because CyberGhost’s team keeps shuffling them randomly every time someone connects. This means CyberGhost helps you get access to popular streaming services, including: I was impressed by CyberGhost’s connection speeds — it gave me 72 Mbps compared to my 100 Mbps baseline speed, a drop of just 28%. This means you can browse, stream, and download content on your Android device without any interruptions. I didn’t notice any loading delays or buffering while I was scrolling through my Instagram feed and watching multiple YouTube videos in HD while downloading a 1.5 GB copyright-free torrent on my Android phone. Turn on CyberGhost’s built-in ad and malware blocker for added privacy and security. The ad blocker blocks unwanted and potentially malicious ads, which prevents the tracking of your online activity. Its malware blocker actively scans and stops any potentially harmful software or files from being downloaded to your Android device. Additionally, CyberGhost provides robust security features to keep your online activity hidden from snooping eyes. These include:
AES 256-bit encryption: This makes it virtually impossible for anyone to track your online activity. No-logs policy (audited by Deloitte): Ensures that CyberGhost doesn’t keep logs of your personal information or browsing history. An automatic kill switch: Prevents your real IP address from being exposed if the VPN connection drops. NoSpy servers: Owned and operated by CyberGhost to provide an extra layer of privacy by the non-involvement of third parties. Dedicated IP option: For an additional fee, you can get a dedicated IP address, which you can use to securely access your bank accounts and other sensitive data. P2P support: CyberGhost allows you to use P2P file-sharing applications on its servers, providing a secure way to share files.
It also offers P2P servers specifically designed for fast and secure torrenting on its Android app. This means you can safely download and share files using your torrent client without worrying about being monitored or tracked. In my experience, CyberGhost’s Android app is very easy to use — even for VPN newbies. Its Best Location feature automatically connects you to the fastest server depending on your actual location. If you’re concerned about security, you can use WiFi Protection, which automatically connects you to a VPN server if you’re using an unknown or public WiFi. There’s a small drawback of using CyberGhost — it doesn’t work well in countries with strict censorship. So, if you’re looking for an Android VPN to access content from China, UAE, North Korea, and some other highly censored countries, CyberGhost is not for you. While CyberGhost’s short-term plans are a bit expensive, its 2-year + 3 months plan provides the best value with a 84% discount at the moment. You can get it for $2.11/month, which is a great deal. All plans come with a 45-day money-back guarantee, so you can try CyberGhost completely free with your Android device. I wanted to see how reliable this guarantee is, so I contacted support through live chat and asked for my refund. The agent processed my request after a quick chat. I got my money back in just 4 days. Get CyberGhost for your Android device
3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Massive Server Network for Fast Connections With Minimal Congestion
Key Features: PIA is a great VPN for browsing, streaming, or gaming on your Android device — thanks to its huge server network. It hosts a combination of virtual and physical servers, which makes it highly unlikely that you’ll face any congestion or latency issues. In the event that your connection underperforms, simply switch to another option. I played Call of Duty: Warzone on my Android phone with PIA and never ran into any buffering problems. Its nearby servers were pretty fast. I got speeds of around 55 Mbps on its servers in Japan and Australia. But when I switched to the servers in the US and UK (very far from my actual location), speeds dropped significantly. I got around 36 Mbps — which is a 66% drop from my base speed. This might cause buffering and latency issues while gaming or streaming if your baseline speeds are lower than 60 Mbps. You can trust PIA to keep your online activity secure and private with the following features:
AES 256-bit encryption: The most advanced encryption standard ensuring secure data transfers. A kill switch: Automatically terminates the internet connection to protect your data when the VPN connection drops. Strict no-logs policy: No records of user activity are kept, as validated by a recent Deloitte audit. DNS/IP leak protection: Doesn’t reveal your actual IP and DNS information. Multi-hop feature: Routes your internet traffic through two servers. This added layer of security can help protect your privacy and online activity.
One minor issue with PIA is that it’s not as reliable as ExpressVPN in accessing BBC iPlayer and some Netflix libraries. But it helps you watch Netflix US and some other streaming services, including: Thanks to PIA’s current offer, you can get its 2-year + 3 months plan at 82% off. It will cost you just $2.11/month. Plus, there is 30-day money-back guarantee to back all its plans. That means you can essentially try PIA for free on your Android device. After using the service for a couple of weeks, I asked for my refund through live chat. The agent asked me a few questions about my experience and approved my request. The money was credited back to my card in 4 days. Get PIA for Android
4. NordVPN — Premium VPN With Cheap Prices on Long-Term Plans
Key Features: NordVPN is one of the best VPNs on the market — and you can get super cheap prices when you sign up for a long-term subscription. One thing to note, however, is that when it’s time to renew your subscription, prices do increase quite significantly. I did, however, have issues with using NordVPN’s native Fire TV app. Although it worked and unblocked some streaming services, it sometimes had issues unblocking Netflix US and kept crashing. I also found that NordVPN’s user interface for desktop devices was less user-friendly than ExpressVPN and CyberGhost. NordVPN has the following security and privacy features:
AES 256-bit encryptionkill switch that cuts your internet access if your connection to a VPN server drops suddenlybuilt-in ad and malware blocker, so you don’t need a third-party ad blockerfully audited no-logs policy (audited by PwC) – NordVPN doesn’t store any personal or identifying data while you’re connected to the VPN
In addition, NordVPN includes Threat Protection that protects you from viruses, infected websites, and trackers – and it works whenever you have the NordVPN app open, even if you’re not connected to a VPN server. With plans that cost as little as $3.49 per month, it’s easy to find a NordVPN subscription plan that suits your needs. You can also stream, torrent, and browse for free for up to 30 days with its money-back guarantee. I tested this to ensure that you’ll really get your money back. At first, the support team tried to give me an extended trial period — but they initiated my refund right away after I told them I wasn’t interested in the extension. I got my money back in 6 business days. Get NordVPN today NordVPN works on: Windows, Mac OS, Android, iOS, Windows Phone, Chromebook, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Fire Stick, and Android TV
5. Surfshark — Best Value for Money with Unlimited Device Connections and Fast Speeds
Key Features: Surfshark offers the best value for money out of every premium VPN on the market. You can connect an unlimited number of devices with a single subscription, which means you can use Surfshark on all your devices without getting logged out. I tested Surfshark’s simultaneous connections on 2 PCs, 2 phones, a Fire Stick 4K, and an iPad. My connection remained reliable on all 6 devices. Even while I was actively streaming on all my devices, my average speed was 112 Mbps — fast enough for UHD quality. When I saw the price of this service, I thought it couldn’t possibly have top-grade security features for such a low price, but I was pleasantly surprised. Surfshark has the following security and privacy features:
AES 256-bit encryption on all devices, with ChaCha encryption available for Android usersWireguard VPN protocol enabled by defaultdiskless, RAM-only servers to protect your privacy (no data can be physically extracted from any servers)kill switch (although this isn’t enabled by default)IP and DNS leak protection
Surfshark offers two-factor authentication (2FA) on your account. This feature requires you to enter an extra code before you can log in to ensure that only you can access your account. While Surfshark does have slightly fewer global servers than rivals such as CyberGhost and PIA, I didn’t experience any issues during my tests. I easily connected fast working servers every time, and I had excellent speeds for streaming Netflix in UHD, downloading torrents, and browsing the internet. You can try Surfshark for yourself with the 30-day money-back guarantee. It has plans that cost as little as $2.39. Requesting a refund is easy with Surfshark’s live chat feature. Although the support team asked why I wanted to cancel my subscription, I had no problem getting my money back (and it only took 4 days!). Get Surfshark today Surfshark works on: Windows, Mac OS, Android, iOS, Linux, Fire Stick, Samsung Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, Android TV, Kodi, and selected routers
6. PrivateVPN — Most Affordable VPN to Secure All Your Android Devices
Key Features: Private VPN is one of the most affordable Android VPNs. You can get its 3-year plan for just $2.00/month. Its short-term plans are also very reasonable compared to many other services that offer similar features. In addition, it offers flexible payment options, including Apple Pay, Google Pay, credit card, PayPal, and even Bitcoin. Although it isn’t able to access as many streaming services as ExpressVPN or CyberGhost, it can help you access the following streaming services: You can label the best-performing servers as favorites based on your experience with them. This was extremely helpful as it takes no time to connect to the right server for your needs, so you can relax and enjoy streaming or gaming with the highest quality at the click of a button. I was a bit concerned about PrivateVPN’s limited server options as it has a smaller network than the other VPNs on my list, but it gave me a fast and reliable connection on most of its servers. Although some of its servers offered good speeds, PrivateVPN gave me a 70% drop on one of its US servers. Even if your baseline speed is high, this level of speed loss may result in buffering and lag during streaming or gaming sessions. When it comes to security and privacy, PrivateVPN is very reliable at keeping your online activity safe and hidden on your Android phone, tablet, or smart TV. It has:
AES 256-bit encryption: That’s the highest level of encryption you can get. An automatic kill switch: Doesn’t let your sensitive information leak even if the VPN connection drops. A strict no-logging policy: None of your personal data is ever stored. IP/DNS leak protection: Prevents your IP and DNS data from leaking.
The Stealth VPN feature makes it a great VPN for countries with heavily controlled internet access. It disguises the VPN traffic as regular internet traffic and hides the fact that you’re using a VPN. This feature means it’s possible to use it in restricted countries such as China and the UAE.
It’s a great VPN for torrenting on Android because PrivateVPN offers P2P support with unlimited bandwidth on all of its servers. I was able to torrent a 2.62 GB copyright-free file in just 5 minutes. One issue with PrivateVPN is that it doesn’t provide 24/7 live chat. This means if you need any immediate help, you’ll have to wait. But the agents are quick to respond during their business hours, and gave me helpful answers to my queries. All PrivateVPN plans come with a reliable and no-hassle money-back guarantee, which lets you try PrivateVPN with Android without any risk. To test the policy, I reached out to its support team via email and got a response within 7 hours saying that my request was approved. I received my money back within 3 days. Try PrivateVPN with your Android device
7. IPVanish — Secure As Many Android Devices (+ Other Devices) As You Want
Key Features: IPVanish lets you secure unlimited Android devices plus all other devices with a single subscription. It works consistently fast even when you use it on multiple devices simultaneously. I streamed on my Android TV while downloading Apex Legends Mobile on my Android phone — I didn’t face any lag or buffering while streaming and the game downloaded in under 10 minutes. Local servers in Singapore and Malaysia gave me a stable and speedy connection of 53 Mbps. When I switched to the farthest servers (the US and Canada), the speed dropped by 30% to around 37 Mbps. With this speed, you shouldn’t experience any buffering or loading issues while streaming in UHD or playing online games like Call of Duty on your Android devices. Being one of the best VPNs for streaming, IPVanish can work with the following streaming platforms: Security-wise, IPVanish effectively maintains your privacy by protecting your online activity and identity with the following features:
An audited no-logs policy: An independent third-party audit has verified that IPVanish does not keep any records of your online activity Military-grade encryption: Uses best-in-class cryptographic techniques to protect data from unauthorized access A kill switch: Quickly shuts down your internet connection to protect accidental leaks when VPN connection drops IP/DNS leak protection: Prevents your IP address and DNS requests from being exposed to third parties Owns its entire server network. This provides an added layer of security and privacy.
Scramble feature by IPVanish adds an additional layer of encryption to the VPN connection on your Android, making it harder for network administrators or ISPs to detect and block VPN usage. This can be helpful if you’re trying to use the VPN in countries with strict censorship or simply hide the fact that you’re using a VPN.
Its APK file is available on IPVanish’s website so you don’t have to get it through 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. I was a bit worried that IPVanish is based in the US, which is a member of the 5/9/14 Eyes data sharing alliance. Also, according to its DMCA policy, IPVanish is willing to cooperate with authorities if a copyright infringement notice is filed against one of its customers. However, IPVanish’s zero-logs policy has been verified by an independent audit, which means that there is no data to be shared even if it’s requested. You can get IPVanish for just $3.33/month if you sign up for its 2-year plan. The prices go up when you select its short-term plans so it isn’t the best option if you’re looking to buy a VPN for just a month. To subscribe to a monthly plan, I recommend checking these best monthly deals on reputed VPNs. To try IPVanish for Android risk-free, take advantage of its 30-day money-back guarantee. Unfortunately, this guarantee is only available with its yearly plan, but it’s extremely easy to cancel your policy. After testing the VPN for 20 days, I logged in to my dashboard and simply clicked the button to end my subscription. I received the full fee back in my account in just 6 hours — faster than I thought. Get IPVanish for Android
How I Tested and Ranked the Best VPNs for Android Devices in 2023
Comparison Table: 2023’s Best VPN’s for Android Devices
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Warning! Avoid These VPNs for Android Devices
First of all, I strongly recommend you don’t use free VPNs for Android because they often have limited features and may not offer the same level of security and privacy as paid VPNs. They also have slower speeds and limited bandwidth. Worse still, they may be funded by selling users’ data or displaying ads. This can compromise your privacy and security. Therefore, you should only use premium VPNs with good security features and fast speeds. If you choose to use a free VPN, be sure to avoid the following services:
Betternet
Betternet has been known to have security and privacy issues. In 2017, researchers at CSIRO (the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation of Australia) conducted an analysis of 283 VPNs and found that Betternet’s Android app was one of the least secure, with several vulnerabilities that could potentially allow an attacker to intercept users’ traffic. Other reasons to avoid Betternet:
Lacks even basic security features such as a kill switch Ineffective at preventing WebRTC leaks Lack of transparency about its data collection practices Accused of collecting and selling user data — including browsing history — to third parties for targeted advertising Slower speeds and poor connection Based in the US (part of 5/9/14 Eyes alliance) Riddled with malware
Cloud VPN
Cloud VPN collects your private data like device info, IP address, and browsing history to sell it to third-party advertisers. You should also avoid Cloud VPN because:
Its premium service is expensive and lacks security features compared to other premium VPNs on the list Slow speeds Suspends users trying to use P2P apps Not effective at preventing IP/DNS leaks Your ISP can see your activity Not enough transparency about how it implements its OpenVPN protocol
SurfEasy
SurfEasy is potentially monetizing itself through targeted advertising, which means it collects user data. I also recommend avoiding SurfEasy for the following reasons:
Lacks kill switch Vague no-logs policy — while your online activity may be private, it logs your IP address and traffic statistics Slow speeds Headquartered in Canada, which is part of the 5 Eyes surveillance alliance
EasyVPN
EasyVPN is an expensive Android VPN, and yet it lacks important features that are commonly found in other VPNs, such as a kill switch. It’s not very reliable at preventing WebRTC leaks. Additionally, it tracks and retains cookies for advertising purposes, which it claims will be secured and shared only with affiliates.
Set Up a VPN on Your Android Device
The best way to set up a VPN on your Android is by downloading and installing a reputable VPN app from Google Play Store or direct from the VPN website. Top VPNs keep your data secure and private, and give you fast speeds for streaming and gaming without lag.
Security: Encrypts your internet connection and protects your online activity from being monitored or accessed by your ISPs, government agencies, hackers, and third parties. Privacy: Helps protect your personal information and prevent your browsing activity from being tracked. Access to restricted content: Allows you to access your local accounts and geo-restricted streaming services while you travel abroad. Improved streaming: Helps you access titles on streaming platforms and potentially improve streaming speeds by connecting you to a server that is closer to the content’s location.
Compatible devices include: Smartphones: Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, Realme, Redmi, OnePlus, Huawei, and more Tablets: Samsung Galaxy Tab, Google Nexus, Xiaomi Mi Pad, Realme Pad, Lenovo Tab, and more Smart TVs: Sony, OnePlus, Croma, TCL, Mi, Hisense, and more. Follow the steps below to hide your true location on Android: The ioXt Alliance has established the following criteria for Android VPN apps to meet in order to get certification:
No universal passwords should be deployed Secured interfaces should be implemented Proven cryptography should be employed Security should be a design principle and the highest protection made the default setting Only verified software updates should be used Software updates should be automatically deployed, not on demand A vulnerability reporting program should be created and regularly updated Devices and software should be labeled with a security expiration date.
To protect your online activity from being monitored or tracked by your internet service provider (ISP), government, or other third parties. Regain access to certain websites and your local accounts while traveling. Use public Wi-Fi networks securely. Prevent your personal data from being shared with third parties without your consent.
In addition, free VPNs do not provide the level of security you need because they lack even basic security features. Many free VPNs collect and sell user data to third parties for advertising or other purposes. This means that, although you may think you are protecting your privacy by using a VPN, the VPN itself may be collecting and selling your data. Some free VPNs have been found to contain malware or viruses that can harm your device or steal your personal information. If you still want to use them, these free VPNs might be a safer choice. The best VPN for Android is ExpressVPN, thanks to its outstanding security features, speeds, and global server network. You can get ExpressVPN for your Android phone, tablet, or smart TV risk-free. It comes with a reliable 30-day money-back guarantee, so if you’re not happy with the service, you can get a full refund. To test how reliable this policy was, I contacted its customer support through live chat and asked for cancellation. My card was credited with the fee amount in just 3 days. Try ExpressVPN with your Android device
