Top 5 VPNs for Android in 2023
Are you concerned about your online security and data privacy? Worried that someone (a hacker or the government) might spy on you? If so, installing a VPN is your best option for protection.
But with the constantly evolving Android ecosystem and countless VPN options available, it can be difficult to find the best VPN…
Don’t worry, Debugbar is here for you! In this article, we will detail the best VPNs for Android in 2023, their pros, cons and how to choose the right one.
Let’s go! Discover how to wisely choose and effectively protect your browsing on Android.
But before we start (if you’re in a hurry), here’s our ranking with the key points to know:
| VPN | Servers | Price (monthly) | Customer Support | Pros | Cons |
| ExpressVPN | +3000 servers | $13 | 24/7 chat | Unmatched transparency; Excellent security; Great unblocking capability | Expensive; Only five simultaneous connections |
| NordVPN | +5500 servers | $12 | 24/7 chat | Ultra-fast NordLynx protocol; Double VPN; Streaming-friendly | High price for monthly plan; Only six simultaneous connections |
| Surfshark | +3200 servers | $2.30 | Live chat support | Unique GPS spoofing; Unlimited simultaneous connections; Excellent streaming compatibility; Affordable pricing | Inconsistent speed performance; Long connection time |
| ProtonVPN | +1200 servers | $5 (Basic); $10 (Plus) | Email and online support | High security; Transparent; Free tier available | Not ideal for China; |
| CyberGhost VPN | +7000 servers | $2 (special offer) | 24/7 chat | Elevated server count; Streamer-friendly; 45-days money-back guarantee | Complex user interface |
Reminder: What is a VPN?
VPN stands for Virtual Private Network.
Basically, a VPN creates a secure tunnel between your device and the internet. Your real IP address is hidden, and the data you exchange with the web is encrypted, protecting it from prying eyes.
You’re probably starting to see why it’s important to have one…
Why it’s important to install a VPN on your Android device?
Installing a VPN on your Android devices is essential because :
- It preserves your online privacy: A good VPN prevents Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and hackers from intercepting and tracking your activities. It’s also an effective tool for maintaining anonymity on the Dark Web.
- It enhances your security: Android devices are generally secure, but online activities can be vulnerable to various threats, including data eavesdropping or identity theft. With a VPN, you can browse securely, even on unsecured public Wi-Fi.
- It offers an enhanced experience: A VPN can improve your online experience in several ways. For instance, you can optimize your gaming experience or access streaming content without geographical restrictions. VPNs also help bypass censorship in certain countries.
- It secures your downloads: If you often use torrents, a VPN is almost essential for downloading safely and avoiding trouble.
In summary, a VPN is an indispensable ally for enhancing your online protection, improving your web experience, and ensuring serene use of your favorite apps.
But to enjoy all these benefits, you have to choose it correctly…
How to choose the best VPN for your Android device?
Choosing the best VPN for your Android device is not a matter of chance. Specific criteria should be taken into account to make the best choice.
Let’s look at these criteria without further ado:
Features
Before choosing, you should evaluate the features offered by each Android VPN application.
Compare with other providers. Ideally, opt for a VPN that offers a set of options that meet your specific needs, such as:
- Ad blockers,
- Split tunneling,
- Or malware protection.
User Experience
The user interface and overall friendliness of the application are very important. You wouldn’t want to get lost in a complicated application, would you? So make sure the navigation is easy and intuitive.
Connection tests
You should also check the ease of connecting to VPN servers. The process of searching and selecting specific servers should be straightforward and fast.
Performance and reliability
The performance of the VPN is another crucial criterion. You should ensure that the service is reliable under various conditions, especially if you intend to use your VPN for bandwidth-intensive activities like streaming or online gaming.
Conduct speed tests to ensure that your browsing or streaming will run smoothly.
Absence of data leaks
It’s essential to verify that the chosen VPN isn’t subject to potential data leaks in the VPN connection. Also, check the performance of the kill switch, a function that disconnects your internet connection if the VPN malfunctions.
Bypassing geo-restrictions
Not all VPNs are equal when it comes to bypassing geographic restrictions. A good VPN should have a robust network of servers worldwide to access geo-blocked sites or content.
So check this capability before making your choice.
Price
Also, analyze the pricing structure. The price should match the quality of services offered.
ioXt Alliance verification
A non-negligible plus: opt for providers whose application has been verified by the ioXt Alliance, an initiative aiming to strengthen the security of connected objects.
These are basically the 8 key points to check before choosing a VPN. They also form part of the basis for the following ranking…
The Top 5 VPNs for Android
It’s now time to get down to business. So what are these famous VPNs that will effectively protect you on your Android in 2023? Are you ready to discover our selection? Let’s go!
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is one of the major players in the VPN market.
Founded in 2009, it offers a network of over 3000 servers spread across 94 countries and 160 locations.
With a rating of 4.7/5 on the Google Play Store, it is the preferred choice of Android users for 2023.
In terms of performance, ExpressVPN doesn’t compromise. With minimal speed loss during tests, you can be certain that your browsing experience won’t be compromised.
Moreover, ExpressVPN is capable of unblocking Netflix and other streaming services while successfully bypassing geographical blocks for gaming servers and torrent sites.
Placing security at the heart of its priorities, ExpressVPN offers the proprietary Lightway protocol for flexible and responsive connections, especially on Android devices.
ExpressVPN’s user interface is sleek and easy to use. It provides numerous advanced features for tech-savvy users while being accessible to novices.
And what about the price? While ExpressVPN is slightly expensive compared to some competitors ($13/month), it still offers excellent value for money. Not to mention the special offer that includes an additional 3 free months and a year of unlimited cloud backup with a 12-month plan.
| Features | Details |
| Key Values | Founded in 2009; Over 3000 servers worldwide; AES 256-bit encryption. |
| Speed & Performance | Minimal speed loss; Capable of unblocking Netflix and other streaming services. |
| Security | Proprietary Lightway protocol; Strict no-logs policy. |
| Price | $13 per month; $100 for a one-year subscription (current offer: 3 free months). |
| Customer Support | 24/7 via live chat. |
| Why Choose Express VPN? | An attractive option for frequent travelers due to its extensive server network. |
| Pros | Unmatched transparency; Excellent security; Great unblocking capability |
| Cons | High price; Only five simultaneous connections. |
NordVPN
NordVPN is another giant in the VPN world. With over50 million downloads and a rating of 4.4/5 on the Play Store, it’s widely favored by Android users.
The company is based in Panama, where data retention laws are favorable to privacy. One of NordVPN’s unique options is its ultra-fast NordLynx protocol.
This allows for the retention of up to 90% of your initial connection speed, a significant advantage for streaming and gaming.
Furthermore, the service can prevent geo-restrictions on platforms like Netflix and Disney Plus.
NordVPN also offers a variety of interesting security tools such as CyberSec, a malware protection system, and a Double VPN function for additional protection.
Add a strict no-logs policy to this, and you get a really good VPN!
As for pricing, NordVPN offers several plans, including a monthly subscription at $12/month or a two-year plan at $3.49/month. A 30-day money-back guarantee is also provided to test the service risk-free.
| Features | Details |
| Key Values | Founded in 2012; Over 5500 servers worldwide; AES 256-bit encryption. |
| Speed & Performance | Minimal speed loss; Perfect for streaming and online gaming thanks to the NordLynx protocol. |
| Security | Double VPN; CyberSec; Strict no-logs policy. |
| Price | $12 per month; $84 for two years (current offer: 3 free months). |
| Customer Support | 24/7 via live chat. |
| Why Choose Nord VPN? | Ideal for VPN pros thanks to its numerous advanced options. |
| Pros | Ultra-fast NordLynx protocol; Double VPN; Compatible with major streaming platforms |
| Cons | High price for the monthly plan; Only six simultaneous connections |
SurfShark
Specifically designed for Android users, the SurfShark app offers a remarkable secure browsing experience.
Based in the Netherlands, this VPN provider demonstrates exemplary transparency and provides access to over 3,200 servers in more than 99 countries.
SurfShark sets itself apart with its unique features, such as:
- “GPS spoofing” (which allows you to change your GPS location on Android),
- and even the NoBorders mode that enables users to bypass censorship in countries like China.
Performance-wise, SurfShark excels. With its WireGuard protocol, the app displays impressive speeds, reaching up to 950Mbps in tests conducted in early 2023.
And don’t worry, streaming is not left behind: SurfShark is able to flawlessly unblock content from Netflix, Disney Plus and Prime Video.
Speaking of streaming, if you enjoy watching movies or series during your travels or coffee breaks, SurfShark is an excellent ally. With it, you can easily access Netflix libraries from the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Japan.
Price-wise, SurfShark is one of the most interesting VPNs on the market, with a two-year plan at only €2.30/month. If you prefer shorter commitments, the monthly plan goes for €11.69/month.
| Features | Details |
| Key Values | Founded in 2018; Over 3200 servers worldwide; AES 256-bit encryption. |
| Speed & Performance | Fast performance thanks to the WireGuard protocol; Ideal for streaming and online gaming. |
| Security | GPS spoofing; Double VPN; Strict no-logs policy. |
| Price | $2.30 per month for two years; $11.69 per month for a monthly plan. |
| Customer Support | User-friendly live chat. |
| Why Choose SurfShark? | Ideal for those looking for a VPN with good value for money. |
| Advantages | Unique GPS spoofing; Unlimited simultaneous connections; Excellent compatibility with streaming platforms; Affordable rates |
| Disadvantages | Inconsistent speed performance; Sometimes long connection times |
Proton VPN
With over 10 million downloads, its Android app is very popular and has a rating of 4.3/5 on the Play Store.
The company boasts an impressive network of nearly 3,000 servers spread across over 65 countries.
Great news for 2023: it is now possible to connect up to 10 devices simultaneously, a feature that will delight heavy data users.
Price-wise, Proton VPN offers a free plan with unlimited data. For more options, three paid plans are available:
- Monthly ($9.99/month),
- Annual ($5.99/month),
- And biennial ($4.99/month).
Rest assured: if you are not satisfied, a 30-day money-back guarantee is offered.
Noteworthy is Proton’s outstanding performance in terms of security with:
- Swiss privacy law,
- AES-256-GCM encryption,
- And HMAC-384 authentication.
It also offers the Secure Core technology for enhanced security.
Among other key features, there are:
- The permanent kill switch,
- The MultiHop VPN feature,
- Netshield (an ad blocker),
- And the split tunneling option.
In terms of streaming, there’s no need to worry! ProtonVPN is capable of unblocking platforms such as Netflix, BBC iPlayer and Prime Video. Streaming speeds reach peaks of 670Mbps – an exceptional performance!
| Features | Details |
| Key Values | Founded in 2014; Over 3000 servers worldwide; AES 256-bit encryption. |
| Speed & Performance | Impressive speeds; Compatible with major streaming platforms. |
| Security | Secure Core; Kill Switch; MultiHop VPN function; Strict no-logs policy. |
| Price | $9.99 per month; $71.88 for one year; $119.76 for two years. |
| Customer Support | Email-based customer support. |
| Why Choose Proton VPN? | Ideal for those looking for a free VPN or a feature-rich service. |
| Advantages | Free offer; Excellent privacy protection; Streaming compatible; Impressive speeds; Up to 10 simultaneous connections |
| Disadvantages | High price for premium offer; No router installation; No 24/7 customer support |
CyberGhost VPN
Designed with a special emphasis on anonymity under Android, it offers a minimalist and easy-to-use application. One of the major strengths of CyberGhost is its features dedicated to travelers.
Whether you are traveling for business or on vacation, you can count on this VPN to provide a secure internet experience wherever you are.
Moreover, its verified no-logs policy and RAM-only servers guarantee flawless confidentiality.
In terms of security, CyberGhost holds its own against competition. It includes:
- AES-256 encryption,
- An automatic kill switch,
- And offers WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols.
Add to this features such as:
- A dedicated IP,
- Split tunneling,
- A content blocker,
- And Wi-Fi protection, and you have a winning combination.
When it comes to pricing, CyberGhost offers excellent value for money with plans starting at just $2.19/month. To test the service, you can avail of a 3-day free trial on Android and a 45-day money-back guarantee.
| Features | Details |
| Key Values | Founded in 2011; Over 9400 servers worldwide; AES 256 bit encryption. |
| Speed & Performance | Impressive speeds; Compatible with major streaming platforms. |
| Security | Secure Core; Kill Switch; MultiHop VPN Feature; Strict no-log policy. |
| Price | $2.19 per month. |
| Customer Support | Multilingual customer support (English, French, German) available 24/7. |
| Why choose CyberGhost? | Ideal for those looking for a VPN with extensive global coverage. |
| Benefits | Wide server network; Impressive speeds; Up to seven simultaneous connections; Reliable kill switch; Wide device compatibility; Competitive pricing; No IP or DNS leaks detected |
| Downsides | No free version; Unclear privacy policies; Less attractive appearance than its PC equivalent; Ineffective in censored countries like China; Limited simultaneous connections |
Looking for a free VPN for Android? No worries, we’ve also compiled a ranking of the best ones.
The Top 4 Free VPNs for Android
Great news for those looking for economical solutions to browse securely: free VPNs are also available! To help you make the best choice, we’ve prepared a selection of the top 4 free VPNs for Android in 2023.
Atlas VPN
Atlas VPN is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a solid free VPN. It offers a bandwidth limited to 5 GB/month in its free version, making it sufficient for moderate internet use on your Android.
What we like about Atlas VPN is its intuitive interface and WireGuard support, a modern protocol enabling fast and secure connections.
Advantages:
- User-friendly interface
- WireGuard support
Drawbacks
- Bandwidth limited to 5 GB/month in the free version
ProtonVPN (Free Version)
If you’re looking for a free option without bandwidth limits, ProtonVPN is right for you.
Although its server network can be congested at times, this Swiss provider prioritizes privacy and security.
Its strict no-log policy and AES-256 encryption are valuable assets.
Advantages:
- No bandwidth limit.
- Excellent privacy policy.
Drawbacks:
- Servers often congested in the free version.
Hide.me (Free Version)
Hide.me provides a generous bandwidth of 10 GB/month in its free version. It also supports P2P, which is rather uncommon for a free VPN.
However, access to Hide.me servers is limited to only five locations worldwide.
Advantages:
- 10 GB/month in the free version.
- Supports P2P.
Drawbacks:
- Limited server access in the free version.
Hotspot Shield (Free Version)
We appreciate Hotspot Shield for its generous offer of 15 GB/month in the free version.
Beware, though: this bandwidth is limited to 500 MB/day, requiring prudent use. This limitation can be bypassed by opting for one of the provider’s premium plans.
Advantages:
- Generous data allowance (15 GB/month).
- Well suited for occasional mobile internet use.
Drawbacks:
- Daily bandwidth limited to 500 MB/day.
Did you find the right VPN for you? Let’s see how to install it!
How to install a VPN on Android?
Installing a VPN on Android is a piece of cake, even for novices. Here’s how:
- Step 1: Select a VPN provider that suits your needs. Chances are, you’ll find one in the list you just read.
- Step 2: Go to Google Play Store and search for your VPN provider’s name. Once you’ve found it, click “Install” to download the corresponding app.
- Step 3: After installing the app, open it and log in to your account. If you don’t have an account yet, follow the instructions to create one.
- Step 4: Once logged into your account, all that’s left is to choose a server to connect to. Most VPN apps offer an “auto” option which automatically selects the fastest available server.
- Step 5: That’s it! Your VPN is now installed and active on your Android device. You can browse the internet securely.
There you go, you now know pretty much everything. But there’s still one point to cover.
Free VPNs that are not recommended on Android
It’s clear that having a VPN on Android is highly recommended. However, beware if you decide to opt for a free VPN as some may pose more risks than protection.
Indeed, some companies have questionable practices or mediocre performances.
Among those with the worst reputations are:
- Hola VPN: Despite offering a free version, Hola VPN has been widely criticized for its security issues and user data management practices.
- Betternet VPN: Reports have revealed that Betternet VPN contains over five trackers in its Android app and has been involved in reselling user data to third parties.
- Turbo VPN: While Turbo VPN claims to be the best free service, it contains many aggressive ads and has been found sharing user data with third parties for profit.
- Opera VPN: Opera VPN is not a true Virtual Private Network service but rather a web proxy, meaning it does not encrypt all your internet traffic.
So, it’s recommended to avoid these options if you want to effectively protect your privacy and security when browsing the internet on your Android device.
The best VPNs for Android in brief
Here’s a quick summary to help you make the best choice for VPN providers for Android in 2023:
- NordVPN: A feature-rich premium service with excellent performance.
- CyberGhost: An interesting solution due to its extensive global coverage and remarkable commitment to privacy.
- SurfShark: This provider offers excellent value for money with an array of premium options.
- Hide.me: A great choice if you’re looking for a free, easy-to-use tool with a good data offer.
Remember, while a free service may seem attractive, paid services are often more secure and provide overall better performance. Always take the time to carefully consider your options before making your final decision.
