The modern world is mobile, we use the Internet all the time, and today it isn’t easy even to imagine a day without the Internet and social networks. All this requires more and more security measures every day.
After all, hackers and fraudsters are increasingly trying to take possession of our data, which is becoming more accessible thanks to the Internet.
That is why the demand for mobile VPN apps is growing today.
Data from the Statista website say that today 41 percent of US and UK respondents use a virtual private network (VPN) at least once a week.
Which VPN connection to choose? What is the best VPN app to work with? The answer to these questions can be not so easy. However, we know that the best mobile VPN apps need to be flexible and intuitive and provide you with more than just a privacy solution.
Instead, they will give you access to geo-blocked streaming services, help you avoid targeted ads, avoid blocking government websites, and more – all while keeping your data safe when connected to public Wi-Fi.
Key features of an excellent mobile VPN app?
Many mobile app development services companies have their criteria for determining a reliable mobile VPN connection.
- VPN service should come from a reliable provider, which already has a history and reputation.
- It is good if the VPN service has additional functions, such as an emergency switch and split tunneling.
- VPN service has its applications and is optimized to work with touch screens.
Based on these factors, we have compiled a list of the seven best mobile VPN apps.
The best mobile VPN apps in 2022
1. ExpressVPN
This service is considered one of the best for protecting the Internet connection on your mobile phone.
Here’s a user-friendly interface: you are greeted with a large on / off switch, and with one touch, you will connect to the pre-selected best server.
At the same time, you do not have to look for a more reliable one among the offered servers. The app automatically connects you to the most secure server.
If you want to access geo-blocked websites or streaming services, you can choose from over 3000 servers from the Express list.
The only drawback of VPN Express is that it allows you to use no more than five simultaneous connections under one tariff plan. It will not work for you if you have more devices that require a VPN.
Forbes also notes that those looking for a dedicated IP address won’t find one on ExpressVPN. Still, users can take advantage of multi-device compatibility and be able to protect any device.
2. NordVPN
NordVPN is one of the most known brands in the VPN space. This application is also straightforward to interact with, and its interface is quite simple to use.
This VPN service provider offers many concurrent connections, with six links allowed through its network – almost all other providers offer five or fewer.
NordVPN also offers a dedicated IP address option for those looking for a different layer of VPN connection. NordVPN provides a kill switch and Tor connectivity. During my tests, I found no privacy leaks and found its speed to be reliably high.
3. Surfshark
It is an excellent Android application that offers an intuitive and straightforward interface. Its design has four tabs that have a variety of privacy tools and connection options.
Surfshark’s network is smaller than some; VPN service makes up for it with features. For example, this service offers unlimited device support.
You can connect all your home devices or entire office on this service and not worry about restrictions. It also offers anti-malware protection, ad blocking, and tracker blocking as part of its software.
4. Hotspot Shield
This mobile VPN app gives a good balance of price and performance. Hotspot Shield is unrivaled if you need a high-speed mobile VPN connection.
Whether you are using a 5G connection or super-fast Wi-Fi, it does not drop speeds of around 380 Mbps on a 600 Mbps connection, making it a high-speed VPN.
In terms of streaming support, Hotspot is one of the best. It will unblock several Netflix locations, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, and many other services.
The disadvantage is that the application for iOS can be a little weak.
5. CyberGhost
CyberGhost is a good VPN choice for those who love torrenting and streaming and don’t have the option to pay much. This VPN is pretty simple, inexpensive, and can do just about anything most users need.
There is split tunneling here, which is available on mobile devices, and CyberGhost also regularly switches ports to keep you safe. However, if your connection is down, you don’t have an emergency switch to protect you, and you won’t be able to change the protocol either (apps only use OpenVPN).
6. IPVanish
This VPN app is considered the best Android app for beginners. The application has a straightforward and conveniently customizable interface.
Thanks to its Android app, IPVanish has managed to pack the same vast array of digital knobs and dials onto a smaller screen for impressive effect.
This service allows you to create visual graphs of your internet activity and manage split tunneling, LAN connection permission, and more.
IPVanish is the app for the methodical techie who loves to control their mobile internet traffic accurately.
7. TunnelBear
TunnelBear is the dark horse of the VPN market. This service has very high performance.
If you don’t want to buy the premium version, you can opt for the free monthly bandwidth of 500MB.
On top of this offering, it also has 256-bit encryption and a no-logging policy. TunnelBear’s customer support is excellent as well.
Conclusion
The above applications for securing a mobile Internet connection have a number of their advantages and are ideal for protecting your surfing on the Internet. And depending on the options, you will need to pay for these services.
Is it possible to use a free mobile VPN? Yes, you can find providers offering their VPN services for free. However, they will still contain advertisements or third-party links to work on your device.
And in terms of convenience and functionality, free VPN applications will never compare with paid ones. Also, free applications often have several limitations and poor speed.
Moreover, if you try one of the VPN services listed in this article, you will understand that the price of each justifies its functionality and capabilities.
Author’s bio: Anastasiia Lastovetska is a technology writer at MLSDev, a software development company that builds web & mobile app solutions from scratch. She researches the area of technology to create great content about app development, UX/UI design, tech & business consulting.