Kaida Rylan Updated on Apr 16, 2025
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Try NowFinding a reliable free VPN for your iPhone can be tricky. Many free VPNs on the App Store compromise your security by collecting personal data, showing intrusive ads, or sharing your information with advertisers. Others come with heavy restrictions, such as data caps or slow speeds, that limit their usability for streaming or gaming.
To save you the hassle, my team tested over 40 free VPNs to uncover the best free options that actually protect your device. While all free VPNs have some limitations, the ones listed below provide decent security features and solid performance. And if you're willing to invest in premium quality, consider a paid service like ExpressVPN for no restrictions and superior features.
While ExpressVPN isn’t entirely free, it deserves a spot on this list thanks to its unmatched performance and robust features. Its Lightway protocol makes ExpressVPN ideal for iPhones because it delivers fast speeds while consuming less battery. During our testing, nearby server speeds only dropped by 1%, providing a smooth experience for streaming, FaceTime calls, and browsing.
Key Features:
Advanced Security: TrustedServer technology with a kill switch ("Network Lock") to prevent data leaks.
iOS Integration: A sleek app that works perfectly with Apple’s ecosystem. Features like widgets for iOS 17+ add convenience for quick VPN access.
Risk-Free Trial: A 30-day money-back guarantee allows you to test ExpressVPN without commitment.
ExpressVPN also helps bypass network restrictions (like those in schools or public libraries) with automatic obfuscation. Though it’s not a free VPN option, its performance and features make it worth considering for serious users of VPNs.
Get a free trial and see why so many users trust ExpressVPN for their iPhone security.
Proton VPN’s free plan offers unlimited data, which is a standout feature among free iPhone VPNs. During tests, we streamed over 50GB of content without facing any slowdowns. Its open-source app is regularly audited for security, ensuring transparency and user safety.
Key Features:
Security Protocols: Options like Smart, WireGuard, and Stealth for different needs, with Stealth working well on restrictive networks.
Reliable Speeds: Minimal slowdowns on nearby servers for browsing and social media use.
No Ads: Unlike many free VPNs, Proton VPN’s free version is ad-free, supported by premium users.
While the free plan doesn’t support streaming officially, we were able to access Netflix Originals and YouTube with no issues. For those interested in "vpn gratuit iPhone," Proton VPN makes a solid choice.
Avira Phantom VPN offers 37 free server locations for iOS devices, providing substantial coverage across Europe, the US, Australia, and Asia. The mobile app ensures secure browsing with AES 256-bit encryption, protecting your data while offering the freedom to choose between automatic or manual server selection.
Key Benefits:
Covers 37 locations globally
No sign-up required to start browsing privately
Military-grade encryption for top-tier security
Drawbacks:
Limited to 500MB monthly data (can be extended to 1GB with email registration)
Limited suitability for HD streaming due to slower speeds (common in free VPNs)
Set up your iOS devices within 5 minutes and protect multiple Apple gadgets seamlessly with Avira Phantom VPN. Want to know how to get a free VPN on iPhone? Simply download the app and start your secure browsing instantly!
hide.me stands out as one of the few VPNs with IPv6 support, ensuring you remain safe from data leaks on modern networks. It provides 8 free server options across Europe and the US, while unlimited monthly data ensures uninterrupted browsing.
Key Benefits:
Full IPv6 support ensures no leaks
Unlimited monthly data, perfect for consistent browsing
Customizable features like protocol selection (WireGuard, IKEv2) and a dependable kill switch
Drawbacks:
Speeds may vary, especially if you’re far from the free server locations
Use hide.me to browse privately with advanced encryption and access tools like split tunneling and protocol optimization. If you've been searching for "VPN gratuit iPhone," hide.me offers a solid solution with no commitments or sign-ups required.
Hotspot Shield uses its proprietary Hydra protocol to deliver blazing-fast speeds on iOS and offers a streamlined interface for effortless setup. With access to 5 free server locations (US, UK, Singapore), this VPN ensures smooth streaming and secure browsing.
Key Benefits:
Fast speeds optimized through the Hydra protocol
Unlimited data on the free plan for continuous protection
Seamless access to Netflix Originals and some streaming platforms
Drawbacks:
Free version includes ads and lacks a kill switch
Hotspot Shield is ideal for unlocking restricted content and securing public Wi-Fi connections. Its combination of speed and usability makes it one of the best free VPNs for iPhone users.
When testing the best free VPNs for iPhone, we focused on evaluating their performance, iOS compatibility, and security features. Specifically tailored for iOS devices, we assessed server networks, speed performance under varying conditions, and integration with iOS-specific features like Widgets and Siri Shortcuts.
For a deeper look at how we test VPNs, check out our methodology page. It’s updated regularly by our global team to reflect real-world usage.
Even with Apple’s strict App Store guidelines, some risky VPNs still manage to bypass these standards. Since your iPhone holds highly sensitive data, using unreplicated free VPNs could jeopardize your digital security. The following risks are associated with untrusted free VPNs:
Data Collection and Monetization
Free VPNs often log your browsing history, app usage, and location. For instance, TouchVPN explicitly states in its privacy policy that it shares user data with third parties.
Hidden Malware
Hola VPN was caught selling user bandwidth via a botnet, while SuperVPN’s malicious code allowed access to user information.
Battery Drain
VPNs that run unnecessary processes in the background can deplete your iPhone's battery while slowing down performance.
Security Risks
Weak encryption or inadequate protocols leave your data vulnerable. For example, Cross VPN has been found to leak IP addresses.
Excessive Permissions
Some VPNs request access to your contacts, photos, or private data unnecessarily.
If you prefer safety without limitations, the free VPNs we've selected offer strong privacy policies, military-grade encryption, and a transparent freemium model.
Devices running iOS 16 or earlier may face potential VPN-related data leaks. While Apple resolved this with their iOS 17.7 update, users of older devices can try a workaround to minimize leaks. Turning on airplane mode after connecting to a VPN, then disabling it again, might help reduce risks. However, it’s not a complete solution.
Premium VPNs surpass free ones by ensuring security, speed, and reliability. They undergo frequent security audits and use strong encryption, such as AES-256, while also avoiding the monetization of user data. On the other hand, the best free VPNs for iPhone on our list still maintain privacy and security, although they may have limitations in speed, server networks, or data caps.
For iPad users looking for a server near London, certain free VPN iPad options may meet your needs! Be mindful that stronger encryption and wider server selections are typically found in premium plans.
Follow these three steps for securing your iPhone:
Download a VPN App
I recommend ExpressVPN for its iOS-optimized app and robust features.
Connect to a Server
Choose a server close to your location for better speeds.
Enjoy Safe Browsing
With your VPN activated, your data is encrypted and you’re protected!
Most free VPNs struggle with streaming services due to server limitations or frequent IP blocks. While some may work with platforms like Netflix Originals or YouTube, consistent streaming reliability requires a premium VPN.
Yes, if you select reputable providers. Services like Proton VPN ensure strict no-logs policies and robust security, while other free services may present risks, such as unwanted tracking.
Yes! Some free VPNs do not require email signups, allowing anonymous installations across multiple devices.
No, most free VPNs cannot bypass restrictive governmental firewalls, such as those in China or UAE. For reliable access in strict regions, premium VPNs are necessary.
Not exactly. iCloud Private Relay acts more like a proxy, with limited features compared to traditional VPNs.
While many free VPNs for iPhone and free VPN for iPad solutions exist, not all are created equal. For enhanced features and security, we recommend a dependable premium VPN like ExpressVPN, with its no-risk, money-back guarantee.
Kaida Rylan is a Junior Writer specializing in VPN reviews and online security. Passionate about technology and digital privacy, Kaida has been researching and testing VPNs to provide readers with honest, in-depth insights. Kaida holds a Master’s Degree in Communications and a Bachelor’s in Media Studies. Additionally, they completed a cybersecurity certification program and gained experience working at a tech startup. Before joining the VPN industry, Kaida worked as a content creator, tech writer, and digital marketing specialist. In their free time, they enjoy exploring new cybersecurity tools and staying up to date with the latest tech trends.