Table of Contents
- What is a VPN for Android ?
- 8 Best VPN for Android in 2026
- 1. NordVPN - Overall Best VPN for Android
- 2. ExpressVPN - Best VPN for Android
- 3. SurfShark - Affordable VPN for Android
- 4. ProtonVPN - Privacy Focused VPN for Android
- 5. CyberGhost - User-Friendly VPN for Android
- 6. PrivateVPN - Fast, Reliable VPN for Android
- 7. PrivateInternetAccess - Customizable VPN for Android
- 8. PrivadoVPN - Secure & Best VPN for Android
- What are the key factors to consider when choosing an Android VPN?
- How to Set Up a VPN for Android : A Step-By-Step Guide?
- Free vs Paid VPNs for Android
- Why do you need a VPN for Android?
- FAQ’s
- Conclusion
8 Best VPN for Android in 2026,Jan – Streaming, Gaming & Privacy
Everyone is glued to their mobile phones, and mostly it is Android. From downloading APKs from unknown internet sources, chatting with friends on Facebook or Instagram, to even making Bitcoin transactions, our smartphones have become like our computers. In fact, we end up doing nearly 95% of our work using mobile.
But the question that comes up is, Is it really safe to connect directly to the internet and perform all the work using an Android smartphone? According to the latest CyberReports
2026, 3 out of every 5 Android smartphones are getting hacked daily, which is a truly alarming issue.
How to deal with this rising threat? How can you secure your internet connection while using your Android phone?
To solve this issue, we’ve put together a list of the 9 best VPN for Android that come packed with advanced AES-256-bit encryption, powerful VPN protocols like WireGuard, RAM-only servers and a strict no-log policy, all of which ensure that no one can track your internet activity.
In this blog, we’ve talked about each Android VPN in detail, along with their starting price, so you can make a smart and a secure choice. And yes, all the VPN mentioned here are 100% tested and verified by our senior tech experts, so there’s possibly no chance of missing out on any point at all.
So without further delay, let’s dive in and find out which Android VPN is right for you.
What is a VPN for Android ?
A VPN for Android is a cybersecurity tool that keeps your internet activities private and secure when you’re using your Android mobile. Think of it as a secure tunnel between your Android device and the internet. When you connect to a VPN, your data is encrypted and goes through a remote server. This means no one, not even hackers, can see what you’re doing online.
Using a VPN on Android is extremely helpful, especially when you’re connected to public Wi-Fi in cafes, airports, or hotels. Without a VPN, your personal data like passwords, banking details, and browsing activity can be easily seen and manipulated.
But with a VPN, your Android device becomes safe. Thanks to VPN features like military-grade AES-256 encryption, kill switch, DNS leak protection and IP masking, your Android stays safe from cyberattacks, unauthorized access and unwanted surveillance.
8 Best VPN for Android in 2026
Now that you know what an Android VPN is and how it offers advanced encryption to securely channel your internet traffic, protecting you from hackers and online trackers, it’s time to choose the right one.
To help you out, we’ve listed the top 8 best VPNs for Android in 2026. Below is a quick overview of these top VPN providers, their features and starting prices so you can pick the one that fits your needs best.
⏰ TL;DR:
1. NordVPN – Overall Best VPN for Android
2. ExpessVPN – Best VPN for Android
3. SurfShark – Affordable VPN for Android
4. ProtonVPN – Privacy Focused VPN for Android
5. CyberGhost – User-Friendly VPN for Android
6. PrivateVPN – Fast, Reliable VPN for Android
7. PrivateInternetAccess – Customizable VPN for Android
8. PrivadoVPN – Secure & Best VPN for Android
1. NordVPN – Overall Best VPN for Android
With a simple interface and 7000 ultra-fast VPN servers, NordVPN offers an Android-friendly VPN app for Android 9.0 or later version, letting you configure settings in just a few minutes.
Let’s say you’re connected to a free Wi‑Fi or a mobile network, it boosts your phone’s privacy and security, giving you full assurance that your device is safe. You’ll enjoy ultra-fast connections, protection from malicious websites, trackers, and ads, plus access to the APK version to enhance security even further.
You can install directly through Google Play or sideload the app, all backed by a 30‑day money‑back guarantee on VPN plan purchases.
Key Features
- Threat Protection Lite (CyberSec): It has a built-in malware and ad-blocker that automatically blocks malicious domains, trackers and even intrusive ads.
- System-Wide Kill Switch: Automatically blocks all internet traffic on Android 8.0+ version, if the VPN connection drops, preventing leaks and keeping your data safe.
- Split Tunneling: it helps you choose which apps use VPN and which connect directly to the internet, perfect for accessing local services like banking without disabling VPN overall.
- Tap-jacking Protection: There is an alert feature that warns you if a malicious app tries to overlay your screen or mislead you into unsafe actions.
Pricing
- Starting Price: $3.29 per month
Pros and Cons
- Strong encryption (AES‑256 & NordLynx + WireGuard)
- Threat Protection Lite blocks ads + malware for safer browsing on Android
- Easy app setup with user-friendly UI
- Users report occasional app freezes that may impact Kill Switch
2. ExpressVPN – Best VPN for Android
One of the best Android VPN, top ranked by TrustPilot, ExpressVPN keeps your internet connection private, safe, and super fast, even if you’re surfing restricted websites online, or you’re streaming, gaming, or just chatting online.
With 105+ country options, you can choose where you want your internet location to appear from. It comes with strong AES-256 military grade encryption to protect your data and stop anyone from spying on your online activity.
You can easily get it on Google Play or download the APK directly if you don’t use the Play Store. Plus, there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee, if in case you change your mind!
Key Features
- Lightway Protocol: ExpressVPN offers its own Lightway protocol that makes internet connections super fast and stable, even on slow or changing networks. This is good when streaming HD movies.
- Threat Manager & Ad Blocker: It blocks trackers, malicious websites and annoying ads, giving you safer and cleaner browsing automatically. You get uninterrupted internet access and 0% threats online.
- TrustedServer Technology: All the servers of ExpressVPN run on RAM-only, meaning no data is ever written to a hard drive! Your activity can’t be saved, even by accident. The data is deleted at every reboot.
- Built-in Password Manager: The access keys of ExpressVPN lets you securely store all your passwords inside the app, protected with powerful zero-knowledge encryption.
Pricing
- Starting Price: $4.99 per month
Pros and Cons
- Super easy to use and set up on Android devices
- Extremely fast streaming and browsing speeds
- Strong privacy with no logs and RAM-only servers
- May slightly reduce speed on weak connections
3. SurfShark – Affordable VPN for Android
If you’re having an Android handset and you’re new to VPN, Surfshark gives you the perfect way to test it out on Android with a 7-day free trial. It’s a great option for newbies who want to see the features before buying a plan.
The app keeps your Android phone, tablet, and even the smart TV safe on public Wi-Fi or mobile data and it works on devices running Android 5.0 version and up. You can expect super-fast internet speeds, easy one-tap connection and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Surfshark is available on Google Play Store and also as an APK download for users who prefer manual setup. It’s a complete privacy tool packed into a small, lightweight Android app.
Key Features
- Kill Switch: If your VPN suddenly disconnects, Surfshark’s Kill Switch instantly cuts your internet connection to prevent any data leaks. This is perfect when you’re using public Wi-Fi and need full protection all the time.
- CleanWeb: This feature blocks annoying ads, trackers and even malicious links while you browse or use apps. It keeps your Android device safe and more secure from harmful content.
- Bypasser: It lets you choose specific apps or websites to skip the VPN tunnel. That means you can keep your banking app outside the VPN while everything else stays protected.
- Unlimited Devices: With just one account, you can connect Surfshark to as many devices as you want! Your Android phone, tablet and smart TV. There’s only one time logging in and out.
Pricing
- Starting Price: $1.99 per month
Pros and Cons
- 7-day free trial on Android for new users
- Clean and easy-to-use app UI
- Unlimited device connections with one account
- APK installation may feel technical for some users
4. ProtonVPN – Privacy Focused VPN for Android
What ProtonVPN is actually famous for, is a free VPN connection on your Android device. It is a safe, easy-to-use cybersecurity app trusted by millions of users worldwide. With a simple interface and strong security features, it helps you browse the internet without worrying about hackers, trackers or restrictions.
It is designed by the creators of Proton Mail, this means that ProtonVPN is built with privacy as main focus. The Android app supports advanced tools like a kill switch, obfuscated servers, IP-hiding and AES-256 encrypted traffic routing, ensuring that your real IP address and online activity are never exposed.
Key Features
- Secure Core VPN: This feature adds an extra layer of protection to your internet connection. It routes your internet traffic through multiple secure servers in countries like Switzerland, Sweden, and Iceland, all known for strong privacy laws.
- NetShield Ad-blocker: It is more than just an ad-blocker. It protects your device from harmful websites by blocking malware, trackers and unwanted ads before they even load.
- Kill Switch: The tool keeps your IP address and data hidden if your VPN connection suddenly drops. If anything interrupts your VPN, the app will automatically block your internet connection until it reconnects.
- Split Tunneling: As per this feature, you have full control over which Android apps use the VPN connection and which don’t. This is useful when you want to stream or browse locally while keeping other activities private and encrypted.
Pricing
- Starting Price: $2.99 per month
Pros and Cons
- Open-source and fully audited
- Strong Swiss privacy protection
- Fast speeds with VPN Accelerator
- Some features only available in paid plans
5. CyberGhost – User-Friendly VPN for Android
Having a 3 days free trial plan, plus a 45 days money back guarantee and even supports Android 5.0, CyberGhost VPN is an easy-to-use app that keeps you safe and private while browsing the internet.
Let’s say you’re using public Wi-Fi, the app hides your IP address and encrypts your traffic so no one can spy on what you’re doing online. Along with that, you get unlimited bandwidth and super-fast VPN servers in over 100+ countries.
It lets you stream your favorite shows, play games without lag and safely download files, all without buffering or data limits. Plus, you can use it on all your Android devices and even protect your whole home by setting it up on a router.
Key Features
- One-Tap Connect: This android app is designed for newbies. With just one tap (no tech knowledge required), you’re instantly connected to a secure VPN server. It automatically hides your IP address and starts encrypting your internet traffic.
- Streaming-Optimized Servers: You even enjoy smooth, buffer-free streaming on Netflix, YouTube, and Disney+. These servers are high-optimized to bypass restrictions and avoid ISP throttling.
- Wi-Fi Protection Alerts: This tool automatically alerts you when you’re about to connect to a risky public Wi-Fi network, like in airports, hotels, or cafés. This feature instantly activates the VPN, securing your connection so hackers can’t access your data.
- No-Logs Policy with RAM-Only Servers: This feature, RAM-only servers, means the servers of CyberGhost don’t store any of your online activity. Their strict no-logs policy is backed by the stringent privacy laws of Romania (HeadQuarters).
Pricing
- Starting Price: $2.05 per month
Pros and Cons
- One-tap secure connection
- Streaming-friendly servers
- No logs & privacy-friendly country
- Can’t use advanced settings without manual setup
6. PrivateVPN – Fast, Reliable VPN for Android
Next, on the list of the best Android VPN apps, we’ve PrivateVPN, an ultimate solution for those who want complete online privacy, unmatched speed, and zero online interruptions. This VPN ensures that your Android device stays protected on every network.
Be it streaming, shopping, chatting or just browsing, PrivateVPN encrypts every bit of your data with 2048-bit military-grade protection, keeping hackers, ISPs, completely out of the picture.
With just one tap, you can browse secretly across 63 countries, thanks to a simple and user-friendly app made specifically for Android. Backed by strict Swedish no-log privacy laws, PrivateVPN never tracks your activity and offers 10 simultaneous device connections. And if you’re unsure, then there’s a full 30-day money-back guarantee, giving you a chance to test it risk-free.
Key Features
- Zero Data Logging: This VPN tool strictly follows Sweden’s pro-privacy laws, which means it never stores logs of your activity, traffic, or browsing history. This makes your online movements truly anonymous, protecting you from ISPs.
- 2048-bit Encryption with AES-256: PrivateVPN uses iron-solid encryption paired with AES-256, the same encryption standard trusted by military and government bodies. If you’re checking bank accounts over public Wi-Fi, your data remains completely inaccessible.
- 10 Simultaneous Connections: You can connect up to 10 devices at once under one account. That means you can secure your Android phone and more devices at home, all without multiple logins.
- Secure Core Servers in 63 Countries: The global server network covers 63 countries, allowing you to bypass geo-blocks and access international streaming services like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu.
Pricing
- Starting Price: $2 per month
Pros and Cons
- Zero data logging under Swedish privacy laws
- Connect up to 10 devices simultaneously
- Military-grade 2048-bit encryption
- No split tunneling option on Android
7. PrivateInternetAccess – Customizable VPN for Android
Our tech team was looking for a pocket-friendly VPN provider that is powerful as well, and we found PrivateInternetAccess (PIA) that offers powerful features of VPN for Android devices that’s simple to use and extremely secure.
Let’s say you’re browsing on public Wi-Fi or just want to stay private online, PIA puts strong encryption to your internet traffic. This VPN provider also lets you enjoy streaming your favorite content in Ultra HD resolution without any buffering, even when you’re on the move.
It’s perfect for travelers, remote workers, or anyone who wants to access blocked sites and services around the world. All it takes is an Android 7.0 or higher version to get started.
Key Features
- No Logs Policy: It has a strict No Logs policy, means it doesn’t track or store your online activity. Even if someone asked them for your data, they wouldn’t have anything to share.
- Advanced Split Tunneling: Now this feature lets you choose which apps use the VPN and which don’t. For example, you can route your banking app through direct internet while streaming Netflix through the VPN.
- NextGen Servers with 10-Gbps Speed: The servers are built for blazing-fast performance. Their NextGen server network uses 10-Gbps cards, which means you can stream, game, and browse without slowdowns or buffering.
- PIA MACE: It is an extra feature that blocks ads, trackers, and malware before they even reach your phone. It helps websites load faster, saves data, and keeps your device safer.
Pricing
- Starting Price: $1.75 per month
Pros and Cons
- Court-proven No Logs policy
- Fast speeds with 10-Gbps servers
- UHD streaming with no buffering
- PIA MACE not available in Play Store version
8. PrivadoVPN – Secure & Best VPN for Android
And now, we’ve PrivadoVPN is a simple, secure VPN service that works on all your devices, Android phones and even Android TVs, browsers, routers, and more. You get 10 GB of free data every 30 days without needing a credit card.
Their apps are quick to install and user-friendly, wherein you need to simply sign up, pick a plan, install the app and connect to the fastest server. For those looking for more power, PrivadoVPN Premium offers unlimited data, access to servers in 50+ countries, support for up to 10 devices, and a 30‑day money‑back guarantee.
Key Features
- Kill Switch: This feature ensures your internet shuts off if the VPN connection drops, preventing accidental exposure of your IP or data. The connection is automatically restored once the VPN reconnects.
- Split Tunneling: It allows you to choose which apps go through the VPN and which don’t. For example, you can stream through VPN while leaving local apps connected directly.
- Ad Blocker & Threat Protection: This VPN app not only blocks trackers and intrusive ads but also keeps you safe from malware, phishing, and other online threats, all in one easy-to-switch feature.
- Choice of High-End Protocols: Supports multiple VPN protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard, and SOCKS5 proxy. This gives you flexibility to find the best balance of speed and security for your network and needs.
Pricing
- Starting Price: $1.11 per month
Pros and Cons
- Zero‑log policy under Swiss privacy laws
- Get Kill Switch, split tunneling and ad & threat protection
- Enjoy Fast, intuitive apps with automatic server selection.
- Free tier limited to one connection
What are the key factors to consider when choosing an Android VPN?
To be very frank, it is really confusing and full of chaos when choosing the best VPN for Android out of so many options. Every VPN provider claims to be the best, and it gets tough to separate the truth from the lie. So, to make your decision easier, we’ve listed the 5 things you should always check before picking the right VPN for your Android device:
- Security & Encryption Standards: Look for a VPN that offers strong encryption protocols like AES-256-bit and supports OpenVPN, WireGuard, or IKEv2/IPSec. These ensure your data is unreadable to hackers. Without this, your online activities are vulnerable.
- No-Logs Policy: A good VPN never keeps records of what you browse. Always check if the VPN has a strict no-logs policy, preferably checked by third parties. This ensures that even if someone tries to access your data, there’s nothing stored to begin with.
- Speed & Performance: Some VPNs slow down your internet badly. Go for one that offers high-speed servers and unlimited bandwidth. This is important if you stream videos, play online games or download large files using your Android device.
- Server Locations & Network Size: The more server locations a VPN has, the better your chances of bypassing geo-restrictions. If you’re trying to access content in different countries, choose a VPN with a large global network of servers.
- User-Friendly Android App: See! No one wants to deal with confusing settings. Your VPN should have a clean and easy-to-use Android app with one-tap connectivity, auto-connect features and a kill switch for added safety during disconnections.
How to Set Up a VPN for Android : A Step-By-Step Guide?
Many of you might be looking to add a VPN to your Android phone for better security and freedom. Well, guess what? If you follow the steps below, your phone might just become safer than the White House! Here’s how to set up a VPN on Android from scratch in the easiest way possible:
Step 1: Go to Google Play Store >> Search for a trusted VPN provider like NordVPN >> Download their official Android app.
Step 2: Once downloaded >> Open the app >> Sign up or log in with your account.
Step 3: Allow necessary permissions like VPN access and connection requests. These are required for the VPN to run properly.
Step 4: Inside the app, you’ll see a list of countries >> Pick a location based on what content you want to access like US servers for Netflix US).
Step 5: Tap “Connect” >> You’ll see a key icon in the status bar when the VPN is active.
Please follow the steps given above in order to install, setup and securely use the VPN on your Android device.
Free vs Paid VPNs for Android
chA lot of Android users get stuck asking, Should I go for a free VPN or a paid one? The answer to this is that it all depends on what you’re using it for.
If your main goal is to unblock websites or play geo-restricted games, a free VPN like ProtonVPN might work fine. It’s free, safe and decent for light usage.
But if you’re planning to use public Wi-Fi, download torrents or transfer sensitive data over risky networks, you absolutely need a paid VPN. Paid VPNs offer stronger encryption, better speeds, no data caps, and essential features like kill switch, P2P support, and 24/7 customer help.
Below, we’ve added a small comparison table to help you get a proper idea about a Free and a Paid VPN
| Free VPN | Paid VPN |
| It offers only basic encryption to your internet traffic. It is risky to access restricted sites. | It offers advanced military-grade encryption to your internet traffic when browsing a restricted site |
| The data limit is barely 1GB to 10GB per month | The data is unlimited |
| You only get fewer number of servers, limited countries and ads are commonly displayed | You get 5K+ servers, 130+ countries and no ads to annoy your anonymous internet browsing. |
Why do you need a VPN for Android?
Android phones are smart, but that doesn’t mean it is safe and secure. They face constant threats like cyberattacks, malicious apps and dangerous file downloads. Even a simple tap on an unknown file or connecting to free public Wi-Fi can expose your data to hackers. Apps that seem innocent can carry hidden viruses that can steal your personal info.
To avoid such risks, you need a VPN for Android. A VPN encrypts your connection, hides your IP address, and keeps your data safe from hackers and surveillance, even if you’re using a free hotspot or downloading files from unknown sources. It’s your digital bodyguard that protects your Android device from being an easy target.
FAQ’s
Which is the best free VPN for Android?
When it comes to free VPNs for Android, Proton VPN is one of the best options. It offers unlimited data, strong encryption, and a no-logs policy, means it doesn’t track what you do online. Even being free, Proton VPN doesn’t show ads or sell your data.
How do I use Proton VPN on my Android device?
Using Proton VPN on Android is simple. First, download the Proton VPN app from the Google Play Store. As it is installed, open the app and create a free account if you don’t have one. After logging in, choose a server location like US, UK, India and then tap Connect. That’s it! You’ll now be connected to a secure VPN tunnel that protects your internet activity and hides your IP address.
Can I use a VPN to access Netflix on Android?
Yes, you can use a VPN to watch Netflix on your Android mobile. Many VPNs allow you to connect to servers in different countries, helping you unlock shows and movies that may not be available in your region. But, not all VPNs work with Netflix, especially free ones. To stream Netflix without issues, choose a VPN known for bypassing geo-restrictions like NordVPN. Make sure to connect to a server in the country whose content you want to watch.
Will a VPN drain my Android battery?
Yes, using a VPN can use up more battery than usual. This happens because the VPN keeps running in the background to encrypt your internet connection. The battery usage depends on your phone model and which VPN app you’re using. Lightweight VPNs that are well-optimized like Proton VPN, have less battery usage. To reduce battery usage, avoid leaving the VPN on when you’re not using the internet.
Is using a VPN legal in my country?
In most countries, using a VPN is completely legal. People use VPN to protect their privacy and browse the web safely. But, if you live in countries like China, Russia, Iran and North Korea, then in that case, it is difficult to use a VPN as a lot of VPNs are banned. It’s always a good idea to check your local laws before using a VPN.
Can I use one VPN account on multiple Android devices?
Yes, you can usually use one VPN account on several Android devices at the same time. Most VPN services allow multiple device connections under one account, like 5 to 10 devices, depending on the plan. So, you can use the same login on your phone and even on other platforms like your Android smart TV.
Can I set up a VPN manually on Android without an app?
Yes, you can manually set up a VPN on Android without downloading any app. Go to your phone’s Settings >> Network / Internet >> VPN >> Tap on “Add VPN.” Then enter the VPN’s server address, add login details, which you’ll get from your VPN provider. This method is helpful if you want a simple, app-free VPN setup, especially for older phones.
Can I use a VPN on Android TV or Android-based TV Boxes?
Yes, you can use a VPN on Android TV and Android TV Boxes. Many VPN providers like NordVPN and ExpressVPN offer apps designed for Android TV, which you can download from the Google Play Store. After installing, just log in and connect to a server. This lets you access geo-restricted streaming content and improves privacy while watching shows.
Conclusion
Using Android mobile is common and so is hacking these mobile devices as well. While we may not be able to stop cyberattacks, we can certainly shield our smartphones from such threats.
In this blog, we’ve listed the top 8 best VPNs for Android that not only offer security and protection but also ensure complete anonymity while surfing online. With these Android VPNs, you can browse privately, access restricted websites, and even connect to free public Wi-Fi without worrying about cyber threats.
Make sure to go through each of the VPN options listed above, check their starting prices, and choose the one that best fits your needs. It’s time to protect your Android device the smart way.
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