Best VPN for iPhone & iPad (2025)
We tested connection stability, speed over LTE, and App Store UX. iOS has stricter background networking, so we prioritized VPNs with reliable IKEv2/WireGuard profiles.
iOS Quick Compare
Tested on: iPhone 15 Pro, iPad Air, iOS 17+ • 5-10 min sessions, switching networks
Top VPNs for iPhone & iPad
Ranked by iOS stability, App Store quality, and connection reliability
Why iOS Needs a Good VPN
Apple's privacy focus is strong, but VPNs add essential protection layers
Travel Protection
Access home content abroad and secure connections on hotel/airport Wi-Fi. Essential for international travel with iPhone.
Public Wi-Fi Security
Coffee shops, airports, universities - public networks expose your iPhone data. VPN encrypts everything.
Streaming Freedom
Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer - unlock global content libraries on your iPhone and iPad. HD streaming quality maintained.
ISP Privacy
Prevent ISP tracking and data throttling. Even on cellular, carriers can monitor your browsing patterns.
iOS-Specific Considerations
Secure Encryption
Military-grade encryption prevents data interception, even on compromised networks.
No Background Disconnects
iOS-optimized VPNs maintain connections even when apps switch or device sleeps.
Battery Optimized
Efficient protocols like IKEv2 and WireGuard minimize battery drain on iPhone.
iOS Privacy + VPN
Apple's privacy features protect device data. VPN protects network traffic. Together, they provide comprehensive protection.
How We Tested iOS VPNs
Rigorous testing on iPhone, iPad, and iOS 17 across multiple scenarios
Test Devices
- iPhone 15 Pro (iOS 17.2)
- iPhone 14 (iOS 17.1)
- iPad Air M2 (iPadOS 17)
- iPad Pro 11" (iPadOS 17)
Test Duration
- 5-10 minute sessions per server
- Network switching tests
- App backgrounding scenarios
- 7-day stability monitoring
Test Metrics
- Connection stability score
- LTE/5G speed retention
- Reconnection time
- App Store rating/reviews
iOS-Specific Testing Scenarios
Network Switching
Wi-Fi to cellular transitions, maintaining connection stability
Background Mode
App backgrounding, device sleep, connection persistence
Battery Impact
Power consumption analysis during extended VPN usage
Siri Integration
Voice shortcuts, automation compatibility testing
Essential iOS VPN Features
What makes a VPN truly great on iPhone and iPad
IKEv2 & WireGuard Support
Native iOS protocols for optimal performance. IKEv2 handles network switching seamlessly, while WireGuard offers modern security with lower battery consumption.
Siri Shortcuts
Voice control and automation. "Hey Siri, connect to VPN" or create custom shortcuts for specific servers. Perfect for quick connections.
Connection Reliability
Maintains stable connections during iOS background app refresh, device sleep, and network transitions. No dropped connections.
iOS VPN Protocols Comparison
App Store Quality Indicators
High Ratings
4.5+ stars with thousands of reviews indicate reliable iOS performance and user satisfaction.
Regular Updates
Frequent app updates show active development and iOS compatibility maintenance.
Developer Response
Active response to user reviews demonstrates commitment to iOS user experience.
iOS VPN FAQ
Common questions about VPNs on iPhone and iPad
Is VPN allowed in App Store?
Yes, VPN apps are fully permitted in Apple's App Store. Apple even has specific guidelines for VPN apps and requires them to use official iOS VPN frameworks. All VPNs in our ranking are available directly from the App Store with Apple's approval. However, availability may vary by country due to local regulations.
Can I share subscription with Android?
Most VPN services support multiple devices across platforms. ZoogVPN, Surfshark, and ProtonVPN all allow you to use the same subscription on iPhone, Android, Windows, and Mac simultaneously. Check each provider's device limit - some offer unlimited connections, others limit to 5-10 devices per account.
VPN vs iCloud Private Relay?
iCloud Private Relay only works in Safari and protects web browsing, while VPN protects all internet traffic from all apps. Private Relay doesn't change your location or unblock streaming services. VPNs offer server choice, streaming access, and comprehensive app protection. They complement each other rather than compete.
Do VPNs drain iPhone battery?
Modern VPN protocols like IKEv2 and WireGuard are optimized for mobile devices and have minimal battery impact. Our testing shows 5-10% additional battery drain during active use. The impact is much lower when the VPN is connected but not actively transmitting data. Avoid older protocols like OpenVPN on iOS for better battery life.
Will VPN work on cellular and Wi-Fi?
Yes, quality iOS VPNs work seamlessly on both cellular (4G/5G) and Wi-Fi connections. The best VPNs automatically maintain connections when switching between networks. Our testing specifically evaluated this transition - ZoogVPN and Surfshark performed best in network switching scenarios with minimal interruption.