In 2024, the global mobile VPN market reached $2.23 billion and is projected to grow to $6.13 billion by 2032, driven by mobile privacy concerns.Β
Using a VPN on iOS is essential in todayβs digital landscape where privacy and security are at constant risk. Whether you’re using public Wi-Fi or browsing on mobile data, a reliable VPN ensures your iPhone or iPad stays protected from hackers and data trackers. The top VPNs for iOS not only encrypt your traffic but also offer fast servers, no-log policies, and seamless app integration. This list highlights the best VPNs tested for iOS in terms of performance, security, ease of use, and affordability β perfect for streaming, secure browsing, or bypassing geo-restrictions on your Apple device.
Features
Category Type
VPN for iOS
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Features
Category Type
VPN for iOS
Price
The cost of paid FortiClient VPN subscriptions varies depending on the number of endpoints, subscription duration, and the specific solution (VPN/ZTNA, EPP/ATP, or Managed).
When choosing a VPN for your iPhone or iPad, it’s important to consider features that align with Appleβs ecosystem, enhance security, and deliver high performance. Hereβs what to look for:
π 1. Strong Encryption & Security Protocols
Look for VPNs that offer AES-256 encryption and modern protocols like IKEv2/IPSec, WireGuard, or OpenVPN. These ensure your data stays safe, especially on public Wi-Fi networks.
π 2. Fast and Reliable Connection Speeds
iOS users expect smooth browsing and streaming. The best VPNs for iOS offer high-speed servers optimized for low latency and unlimited bandwidth, even for 4K video streaming.
π 3. Wide Server Network
A larger server network across multiple countries allows you to bypass geo-restrictions and enjoy global content without buffering or lag.
π 4. No-Log Policy & Privacy Guarantee
Ensure the VPN provider has a strict no-log policy, preferably audited by third-party firms. This ensures your browsing history and data are never stored or shared.
π± 5. iOS-Friendly User Interface
The VPN should have a clean, easy-to-use app designed specifically for iOS, supporting features like one-tap connect, Siri shortcuts, and widget support.
π‘οΈ 6. Kill Switch & DNS Leak Protection
Some VPNs for iOS now offer built-in kill switches and leak protection, which prevent your IP address from being exposed if the VPN connection drops.
πΈ 7. Free Trial or Money-Back Guarantee
Trustworthy VPNs usually offer a risk-free trial or a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can test performance on your iOS device before committing.
Yes, using a VPN on iOS devices β such as iPhones and iPads β is completely legal in most countries. In fact, Apple supports VPN functionality natively within iOS, allowing users to easily configure and connect to VPN services through trusted apps or manual settings.
π Where VPNs Are Legal
In democratic countries like the United States, Canada, India, the UK, Australia, and most of Europe, VPN use is legal and encouraged for personal data protection, secure browsing, and remote work.
π« Exceptions β Countries with Restrictions
Some countries have placed restrictions or bans on VPN usage, such as China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, and the UAE. In these regions, only government-approved VPNs are allowed, and unauthorized use could lead to fines or penalties.
π‘οΈ Use Responsibly
Even in countries where VPNs are legal, using a VPN to conduct illegal activities (e.g., hacking, distributing pirated content) is still against the law and can result in legal consequences.
In summary, using a VPN on iOS is legal and safe in most parts of the world, as long as itβs used for lawful purposes.
Yes, a VPN can slightly reduce your internet speed, but the impact depends on several factors. However, with a high-quality VPN, the difference is often minimal and barely noticeable during normal usage.
π§ͺ Why VPNs May Slow Things Down
When you use a VPN, your data is encrypted and routed through remote servers, which adds extra steps in the connection process. This can cause a small delay in data transfer.
π Factors That Affect Speed
Server distance: The farther the server, the more latency.
Server load: Overcrowded servers may slow down performance.
Encryption level: Stronger encryption offers more security but can slightly reduce speed.
Internet baseline: If your regular internet is already slow, a VPN can make it more noticeable.
β How to Minimize Speed Loss
Choose a VPN with fast, optimized servers.
Use protocols like WireGuard or IKEv2, known for speed.
Select a server location closest to you.
Avoid free VPNs, which often throttle bandwidth.
In most cases, premium VPNs reduce speed by only 5-10%, making them suitable even for streaming, gaming, and video calls on iOS.
Choosing the right VPN for your iPhone or iPad means finding a provider that doesnβt force you to compromise between fast performance and strong protection. Here are some top VPNs that strike the perfect balance:
π 1. ExpressVPN
Speed: Lightning-fast servers in 105+ countries
Security: AES-256 encryption, no-logs policy, and TrustedServer tech
iOS Features: Clean UI, Siri shortcuts, split tunneling
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Great for: Streaming, browsing, and privacy-conscious users
π 2. NordVPN
Speed: Consistently high speeds with NordLynx protocol
Security: Double VPN, Onion over VPN, and threat protection
iOS Features: Intuitive app, auto-connect, kill switch
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Great for: Privacy seekers and power users
π 3. Surfshark
Speed: Fast servers with unlimited connections
Security: AES-256-GCM encryption, CleanWeb ad blocker
iOS Features: One-tap connect, GPS spoofing, kill switch
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Great for: Families or users with multiple devices
π² 4. ProtonVPN
Speed: High-speed servers with free tier available
Security: Based in Switzerland, strict no-logs, Secure Core servers
iOS Features: Transparent and privacy-focused design
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Great for: Users prioritizing transparency and open-source tech
π‘οΈ 5. CyberGhost
Speed: Optimized streaming and torrenting servers
Security: Strong privacy policy, built-in blocker features
iOS Features: User-friendly app with quick-connect
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Great for: Beginners and casual VPN users
These VPNs consistently rank high in performance, security, and usability on iOS, making them ideal choices for Apple device users in 2025.