The 7 Best VPNs for iPhone in 2024: Finally Browse the Internet with Complete Privacy
You’re looking to protect your online privacy when using the internet on your iPhone? Then a VPN (Virtual Private Network) is the ideal solution!
Yes indeed, this service allows you to create a secure and encrypted tunnel between your device and the Internet. This means that when you connect to a VPN server, all your data is encapsulated and encrypted. It is thus unreadable to anyone who might try to intercept it. To put it simply, your online activities can (normally) no longer be tracked.
But to achieve this, you need to choose a good VPN, and not all VPNs are created equal… Debugbar has therefore analyzed and compared the main VPN providers compatible with iOS to help you make your choice.
Discover our selection of the best VPNs for iPhone, their key features, and our tips for secure and confidential browsing wherever you are.
| Specifications | NordVPN | Surfshark | ProtonVPN | CyberGhost | ExpressVPN | PIA | VyprVPN |
| Price (per month) | $3.49 (2 years) | $2.49 (2 years) | $8 (Plus) | $2.29 (3 years) | $8.17 (1 year) | $2.19 (3 years) | $3.75 (2 years) |
| Servers | 5400+ | 3200+ | 1700+ | 7900+ | 3000+ | 35000+ | 700+ |
| Countries | 60 | 65 | 63 | 91 | 94 | 84 | 70+ |
| Encryption | AES-256 | AES-256 | AES-256 | AES-256 | AES-256 | AES-256 | AES-256 |
| Kill Switch | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| No Log | Yes (audited) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes (audited) | Yes | Yes (audited) |
| Protocols | NordLynx, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | WireGuard (VPN Accelerator), IKEv2, OpenVPN | WireGuard, IKEv2, OpenVPN | Lightway, IKEv2, OpenVPN, L2TP/IPSec | WireGuard, OpenVPN | Chameleon, OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard |
| Streaming Unblocking | Yes | Yes | Yes (Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video…) | Yes (dedicated servers) | Excellent | Yes | Yes |
| P2P | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes (optimized servers) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Simultaneous Connections | 6 | Unlimited | 1 to 10 (depending on plan) | 7 | 5 | 10 | 30 |
| Strong Points | – High performance- State-of-the-art security- Excellent app | – Unlimited devices- Very good value for money- Many security/privacy features | – Maximum privacy- “Secure Core” servers- Well-designed app | – Very easy to use app- Huge choice of servers- Automatic KillSwitch | – Excellent speeds- Great for streaming- Split tunneling | – Large number of servers- Access to the Tor network | – Excellent apps- Chameleon protocol- Own infrastructure |
| Weak Points | – No split tunneling- A bit expensive | – Slightly lower performance- Lack of virtual servers | – More expensive- No live chat support | – Performance could be better- No split tunneling | – Premium pricing- Only 5 connections | – Lots of virtual servers- Based in the USA (Five Eyes) | – A bit expensive- No split tunneling |
Why Use a VPN on Your iPhone?
With the proliferation of threats on the internet and the growing surveillance of online activities, protecting your digital privacy has become a major issue.
This is even more true when browsing from a smartphone like the iPhone, which we carry everywhere with us and which contains a multitude of personal data.
Using a VPN on your iPhone therefore allows you to:
- Encrypt your data: A VPN creates a secure tunnel between your device and the internet. All your data is encrypted, preventing anyone from intercepting it, including your access provider.
- Hide your IP address: Your real IP address is replaced by that of the VPN server, making it impossible to trace your activity and geolocation.
- Benefit from protection when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks: Connecting to a Wi-Fi hotspot in a café or airport can expose your data. A VPN secures your connection on these unsecured networks.
- Access geo-restricted content: By connecting via a server located in another country, you can bypass geographic restrictions and access blocked content such as foreign Netflix catalogs.
- Circumvent censorship: In some countries that limit access to the internet, a VPN allows you to bypass filtering and access all sites and services.
In short, VPNs are particularly useful on mobile because we very often connect via cellular or public Wi-Fi networks with our iPhone.
But be careful, not all VPNs are equal. It is therefore important to choose yours carefully. Let’s see right away how to do it.
How to Choose the Best iPhone VPN?
Not all VPNs are necessarily good, especially when it comes to using them on an iPhone. To select the solution best suited to your needs, you will therefore have to take into account several essential criteria:
- Security and privacy: Choose a VPN that uses robust encryption (AES 256-bit), offers secure protocols (OpenVPN, WireGuard…) and applies a strict no-logging policy.
- Performance and stability: To avoid an impact on browsing speed, opt for a provider with a solid server infrastructure and large bandwidths. Connection stability is also essential.
- Ease of use: The VPN application must be simple to install and intuitive to use on iPhone and iPad. The best VPN will offer native applications well integrated with iOS.
- Number of servers and locations: The larger the number of servers and countries covered, the more choices you will have to connect and bypass geo-restrictions.
- Cross-platform compatibility: To protect all your devices, the VPN must be compatible not only with iOS, but also macOS, Android, Windows and Linux.
- Advanced features: Depending on your usage, you will appreciate functions such as split tunneling to exclude apps from the VPN tunnel, double-VPN for enhanced security or P2P support.
- Prices and value for money: The best VPNs offer different subscription plans, with discounts on duration. Compare prices and features to find the best deal.
You don’t feel like spending hours searching for the best VPN? Don’t panic, Debugbar has made your work easier and has selected the 7 best for you.
Our Selection of the 7 Best VPNs for iPhone
Finding the ideal VPN for your iPhone is not easy as the offer is plethoric. We have therefore compared the most popular solutions on the market to help you make a decision. And here is our ranking.
- NordVPN.
- SurfShark.
- ProtonVPN.
- CyberGhost.
- ExpressVPN.
- PIA.
- VyprVPN.
1. NordVPN: Encryption Excellence
Market leader, NordVPN is a safe bet to secure your iPhone without compromise. Its iOS application offers a premium experience with a sleek interface and advanced features.
NordVPN stands out for:
- its excellent level of security and privacy,
- its ease of use,
- and its performance.
It uses state-of-the-art AES-256 encryption and the proprietary NordLynx protocol based on WireGuard, which combines speed and security. Its 5400+ servers spread across 60 countries offer great flexibility to change virtual location.
The NordVPN application is also very easy to use thanks to a large interactive map of servers and a system of preconfigured profiles according to usage (content unblocking, P2P, double VPN, Onion servers…). Just a simple tap is enough to connect to the most suitable server.
On the privacy side, NordVPN does not keep any activity logs or personal data. Its No-Log policy has been verified many times by independent audits.
And in case of problems with the service, 24/7 assistance is available to customers.
| Specifications | Description |
| Encryption | AES-256 + NordLynx protocol |
| Servers | 5400+ in 60 countries |
| Simultaneous connections | 6 devices |
| KillSwitch | Yes |
| No-Log | Yes, audited policy |
| Split Tunneling | Yes (on Android/Windows) |
| Double-VPN | Yes |
| P2P | Yes, dedicated servers |
| Streaming unblocking | Yes |
| Customer support | 24/7 |
| Advantages | – High-level encryption and protocols- Large number of servers and locations- Effective unblocking of streaming services- Very easy to use iPhone app- Strict and audited No-Log policy- KillSwitch to prevent IP leaks- 30-day money-back guarantee |
| Disadvantages | – More expensive than average- No split tunneling- Limited to 6 simultaneous connections |
| Prices | – 1 year: $4.49/month- 2 years: $3.49/month |
2. Surfshark: Unlimited Connections
Surfshark is a heavyweight challenger in the VPN universe. Its main strength lies in its unlimited offer allowing you to protect all your devices with a single subscription. The iOS app is modern, intuitive, and packed with features.
This provider employs AES-256 encryption and supports several VPN protocols including IKEv2 and WireGuard for solid performance. Its network covers 65 countries with more than 3200 servers including specialized options (P2P, double VPN, no whitelist…).
Moreover, Surfshark does not skimp on features with:
- A built-in ad and malware blocker (CleanWeb)
- Protection against web trackers (Search)
- An alert service in case of leakage of your data (Alert)
- And even a blocker for unwanted Push notifications on iPhone
The SurfShark app is also very effective in unblocking Netflix catalogs and other SVoD platforms. And like NordVPN, no connection data or personal information is recorded thanks to a strict no-log policy.
| Specifications | Description |
| Encryption | AES-256 |
| Protocols | IKEv2, OpenVPN, WireGuard |
| Servers | 3200+ in 65 countries |
| Simultaneous connections | Unlimited |
| KillSwitch | Yes |
| Ad and malware blocker | Yes (CleanWeb) |
| Anti-tracking | Yes (Search) |
| Data breach alerts | Yes (Alert) |
| No-Log | Yes |
| P2P | Yes |
| Streaming unblocking | Yes |
| Customer support | 24/7 |
| Advantages | – Unlimited number of devices- Very good value for money- Compatible with all OS including Linux- VPN client for Smart TV and consoles |
| Disadvantages | – Performance slightly behind- More limited server coverage- Lack of virtual servers |
| Prices | – 1 month: $12.95- 1 year: $3.99/month- 2 years: $2.49/month |
3. ProtonVPN: The Gold Standard in Privacy
At ProtonVPN, user’s privacy is an absolute priority. This Swiss provider enjoys an excellent reputation and offers an iOS/iPadOS app with a polished design and a good level of customization.
ProtonVPN of course uses AES-256 encryption and implements its proprietary protocol close to WireGuard called VPN Accelerator.
Its network of more than 1700 servers may seem light compared to the competition, but it stands out by the presence of virtual servers to mask the entries/exits of the VPN tunnel (Secure Core mode) and physical servers located in secure data centers managed by ProtonVPN.
ProtonVPN also has a fairly unique transparency approach with experimental “open source” servers whose code is public. It is also one of the few to offer a free plan with 3 countries but limited to a single device and reduced speeds.
| Specifications | Description |
| Encryption | AES-256 |
| Protocols | WireGuard (VPN Accelerator), IKEv2, OpenVPN |
| Servers | 1700+ in 63 countries |
| Simultaneous connections | 1 to 10 depending on the plan |
| KillSwitch | Yes |
| Tor mode | Yes (Tor servers) |
| No-Log | Yes |
| P2P | Yes |
| Streaming unblocking | Yes (Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video…) |
| Customer support | By email |
| Advantages | – Excellent level of privacy- “Secure Core” and secure physical servers- Transparency (open source servers)- Headquartered in Switzerland- Well-designed and customizable app- Free version available |
| Disadvantages | – More expensive than competitors- No live chat support- Few servers- No split tunneling or ad blocker |
| Prices | – Free- Base: $4/month- Plus: $8/month- Visionary: $24/month |
4. CyberGhost: Simplicity above all
Another well-established player, CyberGhost focuses on the ease of use of its apps. On iPhone, its app gathers the essential functions and settings in a well-thought-out interface, ideal for newcomers.
This VPN incorporates AES 256-bit encryption and supports the WireGuard, IKEv2 and OpenVPN protocols. Its huge network of more than 7900 servers spread across 91 countries offers one of the best location choices.
In addition, servers are also optimized for streaming, P2P and gaming.
CyberGhost also offers appreciable features such as:
- Protection against DNS and WebRTC leaks,
- An ad and malware blocker,
- As well as an automatic Kill Switch that cuts the internet connection in case of VPN disconnection.
Another good point, this VPN does not keep any browsing logs or user data. It is also installed in Romania, a country that is not part of surveillance alliances.
However, a more disappointing point is that its performance is a bit behind the industry leaders. But they remain sufficient for most uses.
| Specifications | Description |
| Encryption | AES-256 |
| Protocols | WireGuard, IKEv2, OpenVPN |
| Servers | 7900+ in 91 countries |
| Simultaneous connections | 7 |
| Kill Switch | Yes |
| DNS/WebRTC leak protection | Yes |
| Ad and malware blocking | Yes |
| No-Log | Yes |
| P2P | Yes, optimized servers |
| Streaming unblocking | Yes, dedicated streaming servers |
| Customer support | 24/7 live chat |
| Advantages | – Very easy to use app- Huge server coverage- Good for streaming and torrenting- Automatic Kill Switch- Ad/malware blocker- Attractive long-term prices |
| Disadvantages | – Performance below leaders- Based in the EU (privacy laws)- No split tunneling |
| Prices | – 1 month: $11.99/month- 1 year: $3.99/month- 2 years: $3.19/month- 3 years + 3 months: $2.29/month |
5. ExpressVPN: Speed and stability delivered
ExpressVPN is regularly cited as the fastest VPN on the market.
Renowned for its reliability and speed, ExpressVPN employs robust AES-256 encryption and supports multiple VPN protocols including its famous proprietary Lightway protocol designed to maximize speed and stability.
This VPN also excels in unblocking geo-restricted services such as US Netflix, BBC iPlayer or DAZN. It allows P2P and includes split tunneling to exclude iOS apps from the VPN tunnel.
The only real downside is its premium pricing, which is more expensive than average and only allows 5 simultaneous connections. Apart from this detail, ExpressVPN stands out as one of the highest quality VPNs on iPhone.
| Specifications | Description |
| Encryption | AES-256 |
| Protocols | Lightway, IKEv2, OpenVPN, L2TP/IPSec |
| Servers | 3000+ in 94 countries |
| Simultaneous connections | 5 |
| Kill Switch | Yes |
| Split tunneling | Yes on iOS |
| No-Log | Yes, audited |
| P2P | Yes |
| Streaming unblocking | Excellent |
| Customer support | 24/7 live chat + guides |
| Advantages | – Excellent speeds- Intuitive and well-designed app- Wide country coverage- Split tunneling- Great for unblocking content- Audited zero log policy |
| Disadvantages | – Much more expensive than others- Only 5 parallel connections- No ad blocker |
| Pricing | – 1 month: $14.53- 6 months: $10.34/month- 1 year: $8.17/month |
6. PIA: A large number of features
Private Internet Access (PIA) is one of the oldest and most respected VPN providers. Its iOS application stands out for its large number of features and configurable settings. Advanced users will appreciate it.
PIA uses robust AES-256 encryption and implements the OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols. Its network of more than 35,000 servers in 84 countries is among the largest on the market, even though they are mostly virtual servers.
In addition to the classic Kill Switch and DNS/IPv6 leak protection, the app includes:
- An ad/malware blocker (PIA MACE).
- The ability to access the Tor network via dedicated servers.
- And even an alert system in case your personal data is leaked on the web.
PIA allows up to 10 simultaneous connections, supports P2P and manages to unblock most SVoD services without any problem.
On the other hand, it’s a bit lacking in terms of performance, with satisfactory speeds but a bit behind the competition. But this very complete VPN comes at rock-bottom prices.
| Specifications | Description |
| Encryption | AES-256 |
| Protocols | WireGuard, OpenVPN |
| Servers | 35000+ in 84 countries (mostly virtual) |
| Simultaneous connections | 10 |
| Kill Switch | Yes |
| Ad and malware blocking | Yes (PIA MACE) |
| Access to Tor network | Yes |
| Personal data leak alert | Yes |
| No-Log | Yes |
| P2P | Yes |
| Streaming unblocking | Yes |
| Customer support | Live chat, knowledge base |
| Advantages | – Massive number of servers- Many security/privacy features- 10 simultaneous connections- Easy to use despite advanced settings- Very attractive prices |
| Disadvantages | – Many virtual servers- Performance a bit lacking- Based in USA (Five Eyes)- No iOS split tunneling |
| Price | – 1 month: $9.95- 1 year: $3.33/month- 2 years: $2.69/month- 3 years: $2.19/month |
7. VyprVPN: Small structure, great VPN
Less known than the giants of the industry, VyprVPN stands out with an uncompromising solution and high-quality apps. On iOS, its application has a clear and modern interface, designed to facilitate handling.
VyprVPN ensures with its AES 256-bit encryption and its proprietary Chameleon protocol, a modified version of OpenVPN designed to bypass censorship and blocking of classic VPN protocols.
VyprVPN’s big advantage is that it manages its entire server infrastructure itself without going through third parties. This optimizes network performance but also security by reducing the links in the chain.
This VPN also offers decent speeds overall and is effective at accessing various geo-blocked streaming services. P2P connections are also allowed.
While VyprVPN used to keep some logs for a long time, the service switched to a zero-logging policy in 2018. This change was independently audited for greater transparency.
The only regret is the lack of advanced features like split tunneling or multi-hop servers on the iOS version of the app.
| Specifications | Description |
| Encryption | AES-256 |
| Protocols | Chameleon, OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard |
| Servers | 700+ in 70+ countries |
| Simultaneous connections | 30 |
| Kill Switch | Yes |
| Owns its infrastructure | Yes |
| No-Log | Yes, audited |
| P2P | Yes |
| Streaming unblocking | Yes |
| Customer support | Live chat, email |
| Advantages | – Excellent, very easy-to-use apps- Chameleon protocol- Owns its server infrastructure- 30 simultaneous connections- Solid performance- Audited zero-log policy |
| Disadvantages | – Fewer countries covered- No split tunneling on iOS- No multi-hop servers- Not cheap |
| Pricing | – 1 month: $13- 1 year: $4.17/month- 2 years: $3.75/month |
In summary: What is the best VPN for iPhone in 2024?
Designating the best iOS VPN in absolute terms makes little sense as users’ needs, budgets and technical skills differ greatly. However, our comparison shows that there are excellent solutions for all profiles:
- For users most concerned about their privacy, ProtonVPN and its Swiss rigor are an excellent choice, as is VyprVPN which owns its servers.
- If your priority is streaming and unblocking catalogs, ExpressVPN is the number one choice, closely followed by CyberGhost and its dedicated servers.
- To enjoy a maximum of features without breaking the bank, PIA and its rock-bottom price have serious arguments, as does Surfshark.
- Finally, to put speed and performance above all else, NordVPN and ExpressVPN are the two undisputed leaders.
Ultimately, the key is to choose a trusted provider with strong security and privacy guarantees, a large server network, and well-designed iOS apps. If possible, also orient your choice according to your specific uses (streaming, P2P, online gaming, bypassing censorship, etc.).
By applying these criteria and according to your budget, you’re sure to find the best VPN for your iPhone or iPad and even your Mac in our selection (NordVPN, SurfShark, ExpressVPN, etc.). Don’t hesitate to test them out for yourself, they all offer free trials or 30 to 45-day money-back guarantees.
