The Best VPNs We’ve Tested for Android in 2026

Features and capabilities: Proton’s Android app packs a ton of features into a minimalist dashboard. NetShield is a built-in ad and tracker blocker that we found to be quite effective on text-based sites. Each plan allows for 10 simultaneous device connections. Proton has servers tailored for streaming, peer-to-peer (P2P) traffic, TOR access, and multi-hop SecureCore connections. The Android experience felt like a direct port of the full Windows version rather than a stripped-down app lacking features. 

Privacy and security: The people behind Proton take privacy seriously, with an unyielding commitment to transparency and accountability that is rare in the VPN space. All apps are open-source, so you never have to question if there’s a hidden vulnerability that could compromise your data. Annual audits and frequent transparency reports demonstrate that Proton consistently maintains its standards year after year.

Speed and performance: Proton’s premium servers rank in the middle of the pack in terms of performance, with a 20.11% decrease in download speeds, a 43.21% decrease in upload speeds, and a 351.26% increase in latency. 

Streaming: We had no issues streaming Netflix with Proton. Proton’s premium servers worked flawlessly, granting us access to every regional catalog we tested. 

User experience and ease of use: The Android app is streamlined and intuitive, making it easy for both beginners and experienced users. Features are easily accessible and clearly labeled on mobile. It’s easy to tell when you’re connected to a server, and you can access advanced options with just a couple of taps.

Users who want a free VPN: Those on a budget should consider trying Proton by downloading the free version first. After learning how to use it and determining whether it best suits the needs of your Android device, you can upgrade to the paid version.

Users who want additional features: Proton is packed with advanced features like multi-hop, split tunneling, and Net Shield. Additionally, all of Proton’s extra security tools, like its password manager and encrypted email service, have generous free versions.

Features and capabilities: NordVPN’s advanced features are configurable on Android. You can take advantage of NordLynx, which is a fast, open-source, and reliable protocol. It also provides access to split tunneling and multi-hop connections. Nord’s Threat Protection Pro keeps you safe from malware and blocks nasty trackers that could try to keep tabs on your browsing habits.

Privacy and security: Nord maintains transparent privacy standards with third-party audits and a frequently updated transparency report. NordLynx utilizes open-source technology, allowing you to examine what makes the service tick. Nord doesn’t keep logs, and its no-logs policy has been independently verified in multiple security audits by VerSprite, Cure53, Deloitte, and PriceWaterhouseCoopers (PWC). 

Speed and performance: Nord has consistently delivered excellent performance in our tests. It reduced our download speeds by just 5.20%, upload speeds by 5.78%, and increased our latency by 58.14%. Just keep in mind that your experience may vary depending on your proximity to a Nord server. 

Streaming: Streaming with Nord was streamlined. We didn’t experience any buffering or stuttering with videos. Additionally, Nord managed to unblock every regional Netflix library that we tested against. 

User experience and ease of use: Nord’s Android app is simple and easy to use, although you may find it somewhat basic if you’re coming from the more configurable desktop dashboard. All advanced settings are tucked away neatly behind various tabs. 

Netflix users: Those seeking to access location-locked streaming content will appreciate NordVPN’s extensive server selection. 

Experienced techies who require premium security: Those with advanced VPN needs will derive the most value from a NordVPN subscription. Features like the company’s unique Meshnet offering are interesting and expansive, but they may be confusing to anyone unfamiliar with VPN use.

Features and capabilities: ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol is known for its reliability and is backed by post-quantum encryption, making it suited for consistent video streaming. You can also take advantage of split tunneling if you want to watch local content while the rest of your traffic remains encrypted.  

Privacy and security: ExpressVPN is transparent about its data practices. The service does log some aggregate data about user data usage, but the company claims that none of this information can be tied back to user accounts. Biannual transparency reports reinforce this claim, as well as the 22 independent security audits that Express has undergone. 

Speed and performance: ExpressVPN decreased download speeds by 18.55%, upload speeds by 7.45%, and increased latency by 95.62%. These scores place it ahead of most services.

Streaming: Netflix access was seamless with ExpressVPN. We pitted it against five regional catalogs from the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and Japan. It performed well, giving us unrestricted access to every single one. 

User experience and ease of use: ExpressVPN features a sleek and intuitive interface. Its single-button connection screen makes it a breeze to get connected, and the settings menu features a range of advanced options for those who want to fine-tune their connection. 

Frequent travelers: VPN users seeking numerous server location options will appreciate the sheer size of ExpressVPN’s server network alone. The company also offers robust security features across all its mobile offerings, including those for Android.

Binge watchers: ExpressVPN is for those who want fast, reliable streaming. The VPN’s specialized Lightway protocol makes it an excellent option for streaming, gaming, and browsing. 

Features and capabilities: TunnelBear has servers in 45 countries and doesn’t place a cap on simultaneous device connections. You receive advanced obfuscation in the form of GhostBear, a protocol that mimics HTTPS to bypass common VPN blocks. TunnelBear also offers a free version that allows you to try out all aspects of the app if you’re unsure it’s the right choice for you. You aren’t limited to a slim selection of servers or barred from using advanced features or protocols. However, you are limited to 2GB of data per month. 

Privacy and security: TunnelBear’s privacy policy is thoughtfully designed and easy to read. Every point is illustrated with a real-world example of how TunnelBear handles that specific instance, inquiry, or data point. TunnelBear has undergone seven separate independent audits that have verified the company’s stalwart stance on privacy. Regularly updated transparency reports reinforce this point, revealing that the service has never handed over user information in response to an inquiry or lawful order. 

Speed and performance: TunnelBear performed below average in our most recent bout of speed tests. It decreased our download speeds by 83% and our upload speeds by 72%. Latency also saw a significant increase of 109%. Keep in mind that speed tests vary based on a variety of local factors, which is why we don’t recommend purchasing a VPN based solely on speed tests. 

Streaming: Streaming with TunnelBear was reliable. The VPN consistently unblocked Netflix in all tested regions. TunnelBear has servers in 45 countries, which is average. While it may not have the most comprehensive server network, it services the most popular countries that offer regional streaming catalogs. 

User experience and ease of use: One of TunnelBear’s most standout features is its intuitive and fun design. The fun and brightly colored interface is easy to use, featuring bears at every turn. It’s not too cluttered. It’s not too sparse. This interface is just right. A map makes it easy to tell where you’re connecting to, and you’ll get a cute animation of a bear tunneling to the region that you choose to connect to. Advanced features and additional configuration options are just a couple of clicks away. 

Newbies: TunnelBear’s ursine-packed theme is playful and charming, with custom animations and illustrations for all in-app features. But don’t let the fun fool you! TunnelBear is an excellent pick that is only made better by its whimsical design philosophy. 

Users who want a free VPN: Fun and free go hand in hand with TunnelBear. You can give the bear-themed Android app a whirl without having to pay, though I’d keep an eye on your honey stash. The full TunnelBear app can be used for free as long as you stay under the 2GB monthly cap, making it a great option for trying the service before subscribing.

Features and capabilities: Mullvad has a lot of great features at the affordable price of just five euros. It has a robust ad and tracker blocker that performed well on text-based sites during our tests. It features advanced functionalities such as multi-hop, split tunneling, and access to a customer-only, privacy-based search engine called Leta. Each subscription supports five simultaneous device connections. 

Privacy and security: You can use Mullvad without attaching any personal information to an account. The privacy policy outlines all aspects of how the company handles data. Mullvad is a no-logs VPN that does not retain user data, and the company takes a stance against affiliate marketing by not engaging in it or any paid sponsorships to promote its service. The VPN’s policy measures were put to the test in 2023 when it was subject to a search by the Swiss police, which resulted in no data being found or handed over.

Speed and performance: Mullvad performed well in our latest bout of speed tests. It reduced our download speeds by 10.57%, upload speeds by 4.23%, and increased our latency by only 15.90%. Please keep in mind that we don’t recommend selecting a VPN solely based on speed scores. Our tests are a snapshot of a single location at a single time. Your experience will likely vary based on your proximity to a VPN server, among other factors. 

Streaming: We test every VPN we review against five regional Netflix catalogs: the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and Japan. Mullvad successfully granted open access to all catalogs without issue.

User experience and ease of use: Mullvad’s Android interface is simple but fully featured. It’s easy to set up a connection and scroll through the server list. Advanced options are just a couple of clicks away, making it easy to configure the VPN to your liking. It’s not as flashy as its higher-priced competitors, but we appreciated its simplicity and ease of use.

Minimalists: Mullvad VPN will appeal to individuals seeking basic VPN coverage at a reasonable price without having to disclose sensitive personal information. It features a simple and easy-to-use interface, making it a great choice for those seeking a basic VPN. 

Users who want affordable privacy: Mullvad VPN is ideal for the privacy-conscious shopper, and its low price also makes it attractive. For just five euros per month, you get a full-fledged VPN with split tunneling and multi-hop connections.

Features and capabilities: Surfshark’s network boasts good global coverage, with a presence in 100 countries. Advanced connection options, such as multi-hop and post-quantum encryption, enable you to tailor your security preferences with ease. Surfshark aims to be a one-app security solution. You can configure an antivirus, ad blocker, and additional identity protection tools all in one place. No features are absent compared with the desktop version. 

Privacy and security: Privacy policies can be confusing and dense. Surfshark adopts a beginner-friendly approach and offers an in-depth yet digestible policy that explains how the company handles user data. The service has verified these claims with frequent third-party audits and quarterly transparency reports.

Speed and performance: Surfshark’s performance was impressive. We only saw a 3.25% decrease in download speeds, a 6.07% decrease in upload speeds, and an increase in latency of 83.92%.

Streaming: Netflix access was no problem for Surfshark. It accessed every regional catalog we tested without running into blocks. We did not experience stuttering or slow load times even when connected to distant locations.

User experience and ease of use: The Android app appears to be a bit cluttered compared with the Windows version. It’s still usable and has all of the features you need, but new users, especially, may find it overwhelming. 

Media streamers: Surfshark is a solid choice for those looking to watch their favorite shows from anywhere without compromising on security. The VPN was one of the fastest we have tested, and it easily unblocked regional Netflix catalogs. 

Users who want a one-app solution: The biggest selling point for Surfshark is its ecosystem of privacy tools. It’s a good choice for those who may not want a handful of subscriptions to different services. With Surfshark, you can configure an array of tools all from a single control hub under one account.

Features and capabilities: Windscribe allows for unlimited simultaneous device connections and grants access to a sizable physical server network. The VPN offers advanced features, including split tunneling and double-hop (also known as multi-hop) server connections. Android isn’t missing out on any notable features and performs just as well as the full Windows version. 

Privacy and security: Windscribe doesn’t log your data. Its fast and anonymous signup process allows you to use the VPN app without disclosing a lot of personal data. Next, you can pay for the app using various payment methods, including cryptocurrency. On Windscribe’s website, you can find the company’s ethics statement and a transparency report that details every request the company receives from law enforcement. 

Speed and performance: Windscribe’s performance was solid. Download speed test scores decreased by only 10.66%, upload speed test scores decreased by 13.20%, and latency increased by 67.01%. 

Streaming: We were able to watch Netflix without any restrictions while connected to Windscribe’s network. We could access the entire library when connected to five Windscribe servers in Australia, Canada, Japan, the UK, and the US.

User experience and ease of use: Minimalists will appreciate Windscribe’s Android app interface. It’s simple and straightforward to use, without skimping on advanced settings. You can use the one-button dashboard to get connected quickly, or you can dive into a detailed settings menu full of tutorials and useful links.

Users who value privacy: Like many VPNs on the market, Windscribe is reasonably priced and offers a full range of features. However, where it stands head and shoulders above others is its transparency regarding user privacy. As a no-logs provider, Windscribe guarantees that no identifying information about its customers will be handed over to law enforcement agencies that submit records requests. 

Users who want to stay anonymous: Windscribe has a completely anonymous signup process that doesn’t require an email address to get started. You can also make payments in cryptocurrency to avoid your identity being tied to the account.

Features and capabilities: IVPN supports up to seven simultaneous device connections and comes with advanced features, including a kill switch, split tunneling, and multi-hop. AntiTracker does what its name implies, blocking unwanted trackers and ads while you browse the web. IVPN’s multi-hop implementation stands out by allowing you to build custom paths rather than choose from pre-made options. Just remember that you’ll need to opt for the slightly more expensive Pro plan to access advanced options, such as multi-hop. 

Privacy and security: You don’t have to provide any personal information to use IVPN. Each account is tied to a unique identifier, rather than a traditional username and password. You can even send cash directly to IVPN to pay for your account if you don’t want any credit card or alternative payment method tied to your subscription. Beyond payment options, IVPN has an in-depth privacy policy, doesn’t keep any logs, and undergoes frequent third-party audits from Cure53 to verify its policies. 

Speed and performance: IVPN performed below average in our latest round of speed tests. It slowed our download and upload speeds by 80.24% and 85.01%, respectively. Latency saw a significant increase of 155.81%. 

Streaming: We test every VPN to see if it can access five regional Netflix catalogs: the US, UK, Japan, Canada, and Australia. IVPN performed well and gave us unrestricted access to each region’s library without any issues. 

User experience and ease of use: IVPN features a simple and straightforward interface on Android. Despite its simplicity, it offers numerous configuration options, allowing you to tailor your connection to your specific needs. All operating systems share a similar design and experience, which makes it easy to switch between devices and platforms.

Minimalists: Simplicity seekers will love IVPN’s pared-down design choices. IVPN’s affordable pricing and built-in privacy features further sweeten the deal, making it a highly competitive VPN at a reasonable price. 

Users who want flexible pricing: IVPN offers a unique subscription model that allows you to pay by the week, month, or year. If you only need a VPN for a few days, then IVPN is one of the few services that can accommodate such a short subscription length.