4 Best FREE VPN for iPhone (2025)

iPhones have good built-in security to protect you from malware attacks. However, without using VPN, the websites you visit can easily get information about your location. Virtual Private Network apps for iPhones help you to protect your online privacy when you connect to unsecured Wi-Fi networks in cafes, shops, or public transport. VPN for iOS can be used for accessing streaming content from all over the world.

With over 100 hours of effort and 40+ Best FREE VPNs for iPhone researched, I have created a credible and insightful guide. From features and pricing to pros and cons, this well-researched review includes free and paid VPNs. My trusted expertise ensures a comprehensive look at what works best. Explore the full article for exclusive recommendations. Read more…

Best FREE VPN for iPhone: Top iOS VPN Picks!

1) ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is one of the best VPNs for iPhone that helps you browse the Internet safely while staying protected from scammers. It allows you to enjoy music, videos, and social media platforms without limits. I found that it does not log your IP address, browsing history, or traffic details, which makes it a top-notch choice for privacy.

This VPN offers online protection using leak proofing and encryption facility. It helps you to stay secured by hiding your IP address and encrypting your network data. ExpressVPN also provides 24/7 assistance via email as well as live chat.

It is one of the best VPNs for Android that allows you to pay with Bitcoin. ExpressVPN encrypts user web traffic and masks IP addresses. It also helps you to hide your physical location. This VPN service provider offers many subscription plans for 1 month, 6 months, and 12 months. This VPN offers a smart DNS service to unblock geo-restricted content.

Features:

• Full-Speed Access: ExpressVPN offers unlimited bandwidth and high-speed connections, even on free trials. I tested this on my iPhone while streaming HD content, and there was no buffering or noticeable drop in speed. It works seamlessly across mobile apps, which is essential for gaming or downloads. You will notice faster load times especially when switching between Wi-Fi and mobile data.
• Global Server Network: With servers in 105 countries, ExpressVPN makes it incredibly easy to bypass geo-blocks on your iPhone. I used it to access local news sites while abroad, and the connection remained stable and fast. While using this feature one thing I noticed was that connecting to a nearby server often improved both latency and speed. It’s perfect for frequent travelers or digital nomads.
• No Bandwidth Caps: Many free VPNs restrict how much data you can use, but ExpressVPN doesn’t throttle your speed or limit your data usage. This makes it ideal for video calls, media streaming, and cloud backups on iPhone. I recommend using it for backing up high-res photos to iCloud, since there’s no need to worry about running out of VPN data. It gives peace of mind during large uploads.
• Next-Gen VPN Protocols: ExpressVPN supports the Lightway protocol, which I found noticeably faster and more stable during my battery tests on iPhone 13. It uses fewer resources than older protocols, extending battery life. Lightway also connects in under a second, which is useful when you’re switching networks frequently. I suggest enabling Lightway manually in the settings for consistently fast and secure browsing.
• TrustedServer Technology: One standout security feature is that all ExpressVPN servers are RAM-only. Nothing is written to a disk, so user data is wiped with every reboot. This gave me confidence while logging into banking apps or checking sensitive emails. It aligns with the best practices recommended by cybersecurity experts for mobile privacy.
• Kill Switch Protection: ExpressVPN’s Network Lock keeps your iPhone secure by instantly cutting off internet traffic if the VPN connection drops. I once experienced a server issue while traveling, and this feature prevented my IP address from leaking. It’s an essential safety net for anyone using public Wi-Fi. There is also an option that lets you auto-reconnect, minimizing risk and saving time.

Key Specs:

Supported Platforms:	iOS, Android, Linux, MacOS, and Microsoft Windows
No of Servers:	2000+
Server Countries:	105
Split Tunneling:	Yes
Data Allowance:	Unlimited
Torrenting:	Yes
Kill Switch:	Yes
Able to unblock:	YouTube TV, Netflix, iPlayer, Amazon Prime, Hulu
No-logging policy:	Yes
IP Addresses:	Dynamic
Simultaneous Connection:	8 Devices
Free Trial:	Yes – 30 days
Today’s Best Deal: Check Now!

How to use ExpressVPN for Free:

• Step 1) Go to the ExpressVPN website to begin your risk-free trial.
• Step 2) Select a subscription by clicking the “Get ExpressVPN” button.
• Step 3) Enter your email and payment details to finish signing up.
• Step 4) Download and install the ExpressVPN app on your device.
• Step 5) Use ExpressVPN for up to 30 days, then cancel for a full refund under their money-back guarantee.

Get Free Now >>

30-Day Free Trial

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2) NordVPN

In my experience, NordVPN is one of the best mobile VPNs available. It keeps your information private by not tracking, collecting, or sharing your data. It encrypts the connection, which is essential for security. This free P2P VPN is a great way to block ads and malware. It is a phenomenal option for iPhone and Android users who value easy access to streaming websites. I recommend its subscription plans, which cover 1 month, 1 year, and 2 years.

Features:

• NordLynx Protocol: NordVPN’s NordLynx protocol, based on WireGuard, is designed for fast and secure connections on mobile. I tested it during high-bandwidth activities like streaming and gaming on my iPhone, and it consistently delivered low latency and quick server switches. While testing this feature, I noticed battery life was better compared to OpenVPN. It’s efficient, stable, and ideal for daily mobile browsing.
• Dark Web Monitor: This feature scans the dark web for signs of your email or credentials being exposed. If your data is found in a breach, NordVPN sends real-time alerts to your iPhone. I used this feature after a recent phishing scam, and it helped me act quickly. I recommend enabling notifications so you’re immediately informed of any suspicious activity.
• Onion Over VPN: This feature routes your traffic through the Tor network after it passes through NordVPN’s servers. It adds extra anonymity, especially useful for journalists, researchers, or privacy-focused users. I once used this for accessing independent news sources abroad with strong censorship. It was slower, but the layered encryption provided peace of mind.
• Split Tunneling: With split tunneling, you can decide which iPhone apps use the VPN and which don’t. This is helpful when you need local access for certain apps but want protection on others. The tool lets you exclude banking apps to prevent login issues while traveling. It’s a smart way to balance security and convenience.
• Obfuscated Servers: These servers hide VPN traffic so that even restrictive networks can’t detect it. I found this incredibly useful at airports and hotels where VPNs are often blocked. While using this feature one thing I noticed is that connecting might take slightly longer, but the trade-off is uninterrupted, stealthy access. It’s perfect for bypassing censorship or surveillance.
• Dedicated IP Option: If you need a consistent IP address, NordVPN offers a dedicated IP you can assign to your iPhone. I’ve used this when managing remote servers and needed stable access without triggering security blocks. It’s also helpful for accessing restricted enterprise systems. I suggest using this with two-factor authentication for added security.
• Post-Quantum Encryption: NordVPN includes post-quantum encryption as an added layer of defense, especially when using NordLynx. While quantum threats are still theoretical, this feature shows NordVPN is preparing for future risks. It’s reassuring for anyone handling sensitive information. I activated this during testing, and the performance remained smooth even with the added encryption.

Key Specs:

Supported Platforms:	Linux, Windows, MacOS, iOS
No of Servers:	6400+
Server Countries:	111
Split Tunneling:	Yes
Data Allowance:	Unlimited
Torrenting:	Yes
Kill Switch:	Yes
Able to unblock:	YouTube TV, Netflix, iPlayer, Amazon Prime, Hulu
No-logging policy:	Yes
IP Addresses:	Static
Simultaneous Connection:	10 Devices
Best for:	Connecting double VPN, onion over VPN servers, P2P.
Free Trial:	Yes – 30 days
Today’s Best Deal: Check Now!

How to use NordVPN for Free:

• Step 1) Visit the NordVPN website to begin your risk-free trial.
• Step 2) Create an account and select a subscription plan.
• Step 3) Download and install the NordVPN app on your device.
• Step 4) Open the app and connect to a VPN server for secure access.
• Step 5) Cancel within 30 days to receive a full refund under the money-back guarantee.

Get Free Now >>

30-Day Free Trial

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3) Surfshark

Surfshark is one of the best VPNs for iPhone. It offers fast and secure Internet access that I found reliable during my analysis. I particularly liked its robust tunneling protocols, including OpenVPN and IKEv2, which provide essential security for your connection. This tool also hides your physical location and keeps sensitive data safe. I recommend Surfshark for those who aim to enhance their online privacy.

It is one of the best iPhone VPNs that allows apps and websites to bypass the VPN blocks. You can protect your identity by hiding your real IP address. It does not log your IP, WebRTC, and prevents DNS leaks.

Surfshark is a VPN that allows P2P connection via VPN on certain servers. It is one of the best VPN services that can block unwanted websites without any hassle. It enables you to share your IP address with other people on the same server. This iPhone VPN also enables you to bookmark your favorite locations for future use.

Features:

• Unlimited Device Connections: Surfshark stands out by allowing unlimited device connections under one account. I connected my iPhone, laptop, and tablet at once without any performance issues. It’s especially useful if you manage multiple devices or share with family members. I suggest setting up the app on all your devices at once to save time and stay secure everywhere.
• CleanWeb Ad Blocker: This feature blocks ads, malicious links, and trackers right at the network level. I used it on Safari and Chrome on my iPhone, and page loads were noticeably faster. It also reduced data usage, which is helpful on limited plans. You will notice fewer pop-ups and smoother browsing on news and streaming sites.
• NoBorders Mode: When I traveled to a region with heavy internet restrictions, Surfshark’s NoBorders mode helped me stay connected. It auto-detected the network limitations and adjusted settings for a stable VPN connection. This feature makes Surfshark highly dependable for travelers. While using this feature one thing I noticed is that it activates silently without interrupting your session.
• MultiHop Connections: With MultiHop, your iPhone traffic is routed through two VPN servers, doubling the privacy layer. I tested this during research work involving sensitive data, and the added encryption made a difference in peace of mind. It’s slower than single-server mode, but the privacy tradeoff is worth it. There is also an option that lets you choose specific country pairs for better control.
• Strict No-Logs Policy: Surfshark follows a verified no-logs policy, meaning it doesn’t store or monitor your online activity. I reviewed their independent audit and found their practices aligned with privacy-first standards. It’s reassuring to know your iPhone activity remains completely private, even from the VPN provider.
• Private DNS on Each Server: Every Surfshark server includes a private DNS, preventing DNS leaks that could expose your browsing. This is a critical layer that many users overlook. I ran DNS leak tests on my iPhone, and Surfshark consistently passed. I recommend checking your DNS status after connecting, especially if you use custom server settings.

Key Specs:

Supported Platforms:	Mac, Windows, iOS, Linux, and Android
No of Servers:	3200+
Server Countries:	100
Split Tunneling:	Yes
Data Allowance:	Unlimited
Torrenting:	Yes
Kill Switch:	Yes
Able to unblock:	YouTube TV, Netflix, iPlayer, Amazon Prime, Hulu
No-logging policy:	Yes
Ip addresses:	Static
Simultaneous Connection:	Unlimited
Best for:	Gaming, Browsing, and Streaming.
Free Trial:	Yes – 30 day free trial
Today’s Best Deal’s: Check Now!

How to use Surfshark for Free:

• Step 1) Go to the Surfshark website to sign up and begin your risk-free trial.
• Step 2) Pick a subscription plan that suits your needs.
• Step 3) Download and install the Surfshark app on your device.
• Step 4) Connect through the app to browse securely online.
• Step 5) Cancel within 30 days to get a full refund if you’re not satisfied.

Get Free Now >>

30-Day Free Trial

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4) CyberGhost

In my experience, CyberGhost is among the most popular mobile VPNs for private and unrestricted browsing. It allows you to stream and access blocked websites seamlessly. Over the course of my evaluation, I found that it supports bypassing geo-reqstrictions effectively and ensures anonymity. It is an ideal choice for those who aim to protect their online presence while accessing global content.

CyberGhost application allows you to easily access NoSpy server. It encrypts data using the latest 256-bit AES technique. This program enables you to hide IP with just one tap. It notifies you while connecting to an unsecured public network.

Features:

• Wi-Fi Protection: CyberGhost automatically activates VPN protection when your iPhone connects to public Wi-Fi. I tested this feature in a coffee shop, and the app instantly secured my connection without any prompt. It’s ideal for protecting your data in airports, hotels, or cafes. I suggest enabling automatic launch for known risky networks to avoid gaps in coverage.
• Streaming Optimization: CyberGhost has streaming-optimized servers that work smoothly with platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu. I used it to access UK-exclusive shows while traveling, and the video quality stayed consistently high. Unlike other free VPNs, there was no buffering or IP bans. The tool lets you select servers by streaming service, which makes it easier to avoid trial-and-error.
• DNS Leak Protection: This feature ensures that DNS queries from your iPhone stay encrypted and protected. I ran DNS leak tests during a session and confirmed that no traffic escaped the VPN tunnel. This is crucial for maintaining online anonymity, especially when accessing geo-restricted or sensitive content. While using this feature one thing I noticed is that it works quietly in the background, offering strong protection without extra setup.
• Multiple Protocols Support: CyberGhost supports a range of VPN protocols including WireGuard, IKEv2, and OpenVPN. I switched between them based on the network I was on—WireGuard for speed, OpenVPN for security. The flexibility is helpful if your ISP throttles certain types of traffic. I recommend using WireGuard for mobile use as it offers better battery life and faster reconnect times.
• 7 Simultaneous Connections: A single CyberGhost account secures up to seven devices at once, including your iPhone. I set it up across my phone, tablet, and smart TV, and noticed no speed drops. It’s a great option for households or users managing multiple devices. You can even monitor active connections from the app dashboard.
• Ad and Malware Blocking: CyberGhost includes a built-in blocker that filters out intrusive ads and prevents access to harmful websites. I found it particularly useful while browsing on Safari, where it removed pop-ups and sped up load times. There is also an option that lets you toggle ad blocking per site, which is helpful when certain pages break due to blockers.

Key Specs:

Supported Platforms:	Windows, Linux, Mac, iOS, Android, FireStick
No of Servers:	4000+
Server Countries:	100
Split Tunneling:	Yes
Data Allowance:	Unlimited
Torrenting:	Yes
Kill Switch:	Yes
Able to unblock:	Netflix
No-logging policy:	Yes
Ip addresses:	Static
Simultaneous Connection:	7
Best for:	Accessing streaming websites with HD video content.
Free Trial:	No – 45-day money-back guarantee
Today’s Best Deal’s: Check Now!

How to use CyberGhost for Free:

• Step 1) Visit the CyberGhost website and create an account to sign up.
• Step 2) Select a subscription plan that works for you.
• Step 3) Download and install the CyberGhost app on your device.
• Step 4) Log in with your account to begin your free trial.
• Step 5) Cancel within 45 days for a full refund if you’re not satisfied.

Get Free Now >>

45-day money-back guarantee

Feature Comparison Table

Why do you need a VPN on your iPhone?

Here are the reasons for using VPN servers for iPhone:

• A VPN allows the safe use of public Wi-Fi from your iPhone.
• A VPN tool uses end-to-end encryption to secure your data.
• It provides unrestricted access to a wide range of streaming content and services.
• VPN servers prevent hackers from stealing your personal information as it is encrypted.
• Internet activity can’t be spied on by ISPs or governments.
• All Internet activity is masked once VPN is set up on your iPhone device.
• You can access your favorite websites when you are abroad.

How do you install a VPN on your iPhone?

Perform the following steps to install a VPN on iPhone.

• Step 1) Select VPN services from the list mentioned above.
• Step 2) Download the VPN app from the app store and install it into your iPhone device.
• Step 3) Open VPN, go to the settings, and ensure you have turned on the kill switch.
• Step 4) Choose a server and connect to it.
• Step 5) Access the blocked websites and content.

Can a VPN bypass iPhone app store restrictions?

Yes, your VPN can bypass iPhone app store restrictions. Perform the following steps:

• Step 1) Go to iPhone settings menu
• Step 2) Confirm your login details
• Step 3) Open the VPN application
• Step 4) Tap “Country/Region”
• Step 5) Click “Change Country or Region”
• Step 6) Select your country and connect to a server
• Step 7) Choose the restricted app from the list to download
• Step 8) Click on the “Agree” button
• Step 9) The restricted app will be downloaded to your iPhone device

How Did We Choose Best FREE VPN for iPhone?

At BestVPNZone, credibility is our priority, ensuring accurate and objective information through rigorous content creation and review. With over 100 hours of effort and 40+ FREE VPNs for iPhone analyzed, we present a comprehensive guide covering features, pricing, pros, and cons of both free and paid options. Check out below important factors to help you choose the best VPN for your iPhone. Prioritize online safety, seamless browsing, and consider essential aspects like strong security features, ease of use, and data limits.

• Security Features: It is important to prioritize VPNs with strong encryption and no-log policies.
• Ease of Use: Great options typically include apps that are user-friendly and easy to navigate.
• Connection Speeds: Pay attention to those with stable and fast servers for better browsing.
• Data Limits: Consider VPNs offering generous or unlimited free data for extended use.
• Device Compatibility: Make sure you select one of the best VPNs tailored for iPhone functionality.
• Ad Presence: Avoid VPNs with intrusive ads to ensure a seamless experience.
• Customer Support: It is helpful to choose providers with accessible customer service for troubleshooting.

Risks of Using a Free VPN for iOS

Using a free VPN for iOS may seem tempting, but it can put your privacy and security at risk. Many free VPNs collect and sell user data, which can expose your personal information to third parties. I always recommend being cautious because free services often make money by tracking your online activities.

Here are some major risks you should consider before using a free VPN on your iPhone:

• Weak or no encryption can leave your data vulnerable to hackers.
• Frequent connection drops can interrupt browsing and expose your real IP address.
• Limited server options often result in slow speeds and unreliable performance.
• Some free VPNs may inject ads or malware into your device.

From my experience, paying for a reputable VPN ensures stronger protection and a more stable, private connection.

Verdict:

When considering the best free VPNs for iPhone, it’s essential to evaluate their features, security, and usability. In this review, I have examined some of the top options available.

• ExpressVPN: This service provides a user-friendly interface and robust security features, ensuring a secure browsing experience on your iPhone.
• NordVPN: Known for its extensive server network and strong encryption protocols, NordVPN offers reliable performance and access to geo-restricted content.
• Surfshark: With unlimited device connections and competitive pricing, Surfshark delivers a comprehensive VPN solution suitable for iPhone users seeking both security and flexibility.

FAQs