If you own an Android device, it is important to be aware of the potential online threats that exist. Without proper protection, your data and online activities can be eavesdropped on, leading to identity theft and other risks. This is where a VPN (Virtual Private Network) comes in handy.
While free VPNs may seem like an attractive option, they often come with limitations such as small server fleets, slower speeds, and fewer security features. It is recommended to opt for a reputable VPN provider that offers top-notch security, fast speeds, and full access to its features. Our top recommendation for Android devices is NordVPN, which offers a free 7-day trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee. In this article, we will explore the benefits of using a VPN for Android and provide a list of reliable VPN options that you can trust to keep your device and online activities secure.
Top 5 Best Android VPNs: Free & Paid
Looking for the best Android VPNs? Look no further than NordVPN, the top-rated VPN for Android in 2024. Surfshark is another great option, offering unlimited device connections and a 7-day free trial. Norton VPN is a secure choice for your Android device. Proton VPN is the best free VPN for Android, while Windscribe offers both speed and security for free.
Is it worth having a free VPN on Android?
When it comes to using a free VPN on your Android device, it really depends on your needs. However, it’s important to keep in mind that free VPNs come with certain limitations such as data usage, speed, features, and country selection. This means that a free VPN is typically only suitable for occasional browsing.
If you plan on using a VPN for streaming, torrenting, or unblocking content in specific countries, it’s better to consider paid services. You can upgrade any of the VPNs listed below, as all of them offer paid subscription plans that don’t limit data, bandwidth, server list, and other features. Alternatively, you can also check out our list of the best VPN services and choose one of our top VPNs.
If you’re looking for a good free VPN, we recommend using the free trials or 30-day money-back guarantees offered by premium providers like NordVPN or Surfshark. These services offer reliable and feature-rich options that can meet your needs without breaking the bank.
Below is a table summarizing the pros and cons of using a free VPN on Android:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Free to use | Limited data usage |
| Easy to install | Slower speeds |
| Some offer basic security features | Limited server selection |
| No commitment required | May collect and sell user data |
| May contain ads |
In conclusion, while free VPNs can be a convenient and cost-effective option for occasional browsing, they are not suitable for more demanding tasks. If you want the best possible experience, it’s worth investing in a paid VPN service or taking advantage of free trials offered by premium providers.
Best Free Trial VPNs for Android – Our Detailed List
1. NordVPN – Best Free Android VPN Overall
NordVPN is the top pick for the best free Android VPN with a trial and money-back guarantee. This premium VPN solution offers excellent speed, functionality, and security features. NordVPN’s RAM-only servers make it impossible for the provider to store any of your data, and AES-256-CBC and ChaCha20 encryption ensure that your connections are completely secure.
The Android app includes all the essential features, such as split-tunneling, a kill switch, and reliable auto-connect options. NordVPN works seamlessly with streaming platforms and torrenting, making it an excellent choice for watching movies on the go.
What’s even better is that you can get the NordVPN free trial and use it free of charge for 30 days. It’s a great, no-risk alternative to free Android VPNs, giving you completely free premium services.
Pros
- Excellent list of features
- Lightning-fast speeds
- Works well with streaming platforms
- Allows torrenting
- Unlimited data
- Ad-blocker included
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- No free forever plan
2. Surfshark – Unlimited Android VPN for Free
Surfshark is a free VPN option for Android users that includes a week-long trial and a money-back guarantee. This VPN offers fast and secure protocols, such as WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2, and top-class AES-256 encryption.
Surfshark is an excellent option for streaming, and we had no issues using this VPN for Netflix and other popular streaming platforms. It unblocks international content and even libraries that are usually more difficult to access.
Moreover, Surfshark is one of the best options for those who want to use a VPN on unlimited devices. Your friends and family can use one account to protect all of their online connections.
With a reliable free Surfshark trial and an excellent low price, this is one of the best free VPN alternatives for Android.
Pros
- Excellent server performance
- Streaming and torrenting are available
- RAM-only servers
- Works on unlimited devices
- GPS spoofing
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- No free forever plan
3. Norton VPN – Secure Android VPN with a Free Trial
Norton VPN is a secure and reliable VPN provider that enhances your Android device protection. It offers a 7-day free trial once you download it on your Android device and a 60-day money-back guarantee.
This VPN offers a well-developed app for Android users, with AES-256 encryption, a reliable kill switch to prevent data leaks, and secure tunneling protocols. Norton VPN retains around 74% of the initial speed, even without the speedy WireGuard tunneling protocol.
To ensure better security, there’s also an ad blocker, and you can opt to get this VPN with Norton antivirus to get a top-rated malware prevention service too. One subscription covers up to 10 devices simultaneously, making it a great budget-friendly alternative to a free Android VPN.
Pros
- Stable speeds
- Robust security features
- No-logs policy
- 10 connections
- 60-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- Doesn’t unblock common Netflix libraries
- No forever free version
Best VPNs for Android with a free version – our detailed list
1. Proton VPN – the best free version VPN for Android devices
Proton VPN, based in Switzerland, offers an excellent free version with an app for Android that provides maximal security. This VPN offers an unlimited amount of data, allowing you to browse the web without any limitations. The free version of ProtonVPN shows no ads, making it a great choice for those who don’t want to be bothered by annoying ads.
However, the free version has its limitations. You can only connect to 160 servers in three countries, and you’re less likely to unblock Netflix and other streaming platforms. Additionally, the speeds won’t be as good as with the paid version, although Proton VPN is incredibly fast with only 6.5% speed reduction at times.
The free version of Proton VPN has split tunneling and the WireGuard tunneling protocol that you can also get with a Premium. An upgraded version also includes Secure Core (DoubleVPN) servers and more locations.
Pros:
- Unlimited data
- High-level encryption
- WireGuard protocol
- Decent speeds
Cons:
- Medium speeds for free users
- Free app might not work with Netflix
- One connection
Visit ProtonVPN
2. Windscribe – a speedy and secure free Android VPN
Windscribe, based in Canada, offers a good free app for Android that is ad-free, has several good locations to choose from, and provides relatively good speeds when compared to other providers. However, the free version is still limited, offering only 2GB of data to use per month. If you confirm your email address, you will be entitled to 10GB of data per month, along with unlimited simultaneous connections.
Windscribe has more server locations than other free VPN providers, including the US, Canada, Germany, France, the Netherlands, Norway, Romania, Switzerland, the UK, Turkey, and Hong Kong. The VPN retains around 70% of the baseline speed, making it a great choice for a smooth browsing and streaming experience.
The free features of Windscribe include split tunneling, a firewall (kill switch), time-zone change, an ad blocker, and a feature to delete cookies and other trackers.
Pros:
- Free version
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- 11 free server locations
- 10GB monthly data
Cons:
- No independent audit
- Not great with torrenting
- The server count is not that big
View Windscribe VPN
How We Tested These Android VPN Apps
To determine the best free VPN apps for Android, we conducted extensive testing on a Nokia 6.2 smartphone running Android 11 OS. Our evaluation was based on several criteria, including security, privacy, streaming capabilities, server network, speed, and features.
Security
We understand that Android users are more vulnerable to cyber threats due to the operating system’s allowance of third-party app installations. As such, we only selected VPNs that offer high-level AES-256 encryption cipher and secure tunneling protocols such as WireGuard or OpenVPN. Our top picks provide reliable protection against data theft and other online threats.
Privacy and Logging
We thoroughly reviewed the privacy policies of each VPN and only considered services that are no-logs providers. We gave higher points to providers with independently audited policies to ensure that your online activity remains private and secure.
Free VPN Data Caps
We also took into account the data caps that come with each VPN and whether they are sufficient for casual daily browsing. Our top picks offer generous data caps that allow you to surf the web without worrying about running out of data.
Server Fleet
We compared the server networks of VPN services, including the free ones. We also considered providers that offer RAM-only or obfuscated servers to ensure that your online activity remains anonymous and secure.
Android Apps
We made sure that the Android apps we recommend are functional and do not lack in terms of features. Some providers neglect their mobile versions, but our top picks provide excellent mobile apps that are easy to use and offer all the necessary features.
Speed
We performed speed tests on all providers to determine which VPNs offer the fastest speeds. We considered modern tunneling protocols that are useful for faster VPN speeds.
Features
We looked for extra features that would be useful for extra security. Our top picks include a kill switch to prevent accidental data leaks and features like Threat Protection, which stops ads and malware, to ensure that your online activity remains safe and secure.
Overall, our testing process was rigorous and comprehensive, ensuring that we recommend only the best free VPN apps for Android.
How to Use a VPN App on Android
Using a VPN app on your Android device is a simple and straightforward process. Follow the steps below to get started:
- Go to Google Play and search for the VPN app of your choice.
- Click on the “Install” button and then “Open” to launch the app.
- Sign up or create a new account if required.
- If you’re using a free VPN service, you can connect to a server right away. For paid services, you can either choose to start a free trial or purchase a plan.
- Select the server of your choice and click on the “Connect” button.
That’s it! You’re now connected to the VPN server and your online activities are secure and private.
If your preferred VPN service doesn’t have a dedicated app for Android devices, you can still set it up manually. However, using a VPN app is the easiest and most convenient way to protect your online privacy and security on your Android device.
Best Android VPNs compared
If you’re looking for a free VPN for your Android device, we’ve compared some of the best options available to help you make an informed decision. Here is a table that lists the most important aspects of each VPN:
| NordVPN | Surfshark | Norton VPN | Proton VPN | AtlasVPN | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | |||||
| Rating | 4.9 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ | 4.7 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ | 4.2 ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ | 4 ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ | 3.7 ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ |
| Review | NordVPN review | Surfshark VPN review | Norton VPN review | Proton VPN review | Windscribe review |
| Free trial | Yes, 7-day | Yes, 7-day | Yes, 7-day | Yes, unlimited | Yes, unlimited |
| Price (lowest price per month) | $2.99/month | $1.99/month | $2.49/month | $4.99/month | $$5.75/month |
| Streaming | Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and more | Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and more | BBC iPlayer, Max | Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, HBO Max, Disney+ | Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube |
| Logging | No logs, independently audited twice by PwC | No logs, not audited | No logs, not audited | No logs, independently audited by Securitum | No logs, not audited |
| Servers | 6000+ servers in 61 countries | 3200+ servers in 100 countries | 1000+ servers in 29 countries | 3000+ servers in 69 countries | 480+ servers in 69 countries |
| Simultaneous connections | 6 | Unlimited | 10 | 10 | Unlimited |
| Country | Panama | The Netherlands (part of 9-Eyes) | United States (part of 5-Eyes) | Switzerland | Canada (part of 5-Eyes) |
| Best for | Streaming, torrenting, security | Streaming, torrenting, security | Security, browsing | Torrenting, security | Streaming, security |
As you can see, each VPN has its own strengths and weaknesses. NordVPN and Surfshark are both highly rated and offer free trials, making them great options for those who want to try before they buy. Norton VPN and Proton VPN both prioritize security and privacy, while AtlasVPN is a good choice for those who want to stream content. Ultimately, the best VPN for you will depend on your specific needs and priorities.
Why Free VPNs Might Be Dangerous
Using a free VPN might seem like a good idea at first, but it can actually be quite dangerous. Here are some reasons why:
- Malicious ads: Free VPNs often display a lot of ads to make money. Unfortunately, these ads can be dangerous and install malware onto your device. This can compromise your security and privacy.
- Trackers: Some free VPNs install trackers onto your device, which can monitor your location, search queries, and other personal information. This can make you less anonymous and put your privacy at risk.
- Selling data: Free VPNs might sell your data to third parties, which can be dangerous in countries like China where this information could potentially put you in jail.
- Outdated software: Free VPNs often use outdated and unsafe tunneling protocols that can be easily attacked by cybercriminals. This puts your security at risk and makes you vulnerable to cyber-attacks.
To stay safe and secure, it is recommended that you use a premium VPN provider like NordVPN. NordVPN offers maximum security against all these risks and provides a free 7-day trial along with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
If you still want to use a free VPN, look for freemium VPNs that also offer a paid version. This way, you’ll know that the service earns money from sales instead of doing some shady business. Also, you’ll be able to upgrade your tool into a better version.
In conclusion, while free VPNs might seem like a good idea, they can actually be quite dangerous. It is recommended that you use a premium VPN provider like NordVPN to ensure maximum security and privacy.
Free Android VPNs to Avoid
When it comes to choosing a free VPN for your Android device, it’s crucial to avoid certain options that might put your privacy and security at risk. Here are some of the most well-known free VPNs that you should steer clear of:
- Opera VPN: While Opera VPN may seem like a convenient option since it comes bundled with the Opera browser, it’s not a trustworthy choice. Opera’s privacy policy is questionable, and you have no control over where your data ends up. Additionally, you can only choose from three continents, not specific countries.
- Betternet VPN: Despite its popularity, Betternet VPN should be avoided due to its lack of a kill switch, DNS leaks, and poor logging policy. These issues can compromise your online security and privacy.
- iNinja VPN: Despite its name, iNinja VPN is not a good option for protecting your online anonymity. It collects a significant amount of user data, including activity logs, connection timestamps, and personal information.
To ensure that your online activity remains private and secure, it’s important to choose a reputable VPN provider that has a strong track record of protecting user privacy. While free VPNs may seem appealing, they often come with hidden risks that can put your sensitive data in jeopardy.
Video Review: Free VPNs for Android
Looking for a reliable and free VPN for your Android device? Check out this 8-minute video review of the best options available:
- Discover the best free VPNs for Android
- Learn about the top mobile VPN options
- Find a VPN that fits your needs and budget
With this video review, you can make an informed decision about which free VPN to use on your Android device. Don’t compromise your privacy and security – choose a VPN that you can trust.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a VPN for your Android device, it’s important to choose a provider that offers top-notch security, a large server network, and the ability to bypass geo-restrictions. While completely free VPNs for Android are available, they come with limitations that may compromise your online privacy and security.
To ensure the highest level of protection for your Android device, we recommend using a free trial, a free version, or a money-back guarantee of a premium provider like NordVPN. With its extensive server network, anti-malware features, and excellent performance on Android devices, NordVPN is the best VPN provider for Android that offers a free trial and a month-long money-back guarantee.
If you’re still interested in using a completely free VPN, we suggest using a free version of a premium VPN provider like ProtonVPN. ProtonVPN offers the highest possible security without putting your device and data at risk.
For more VPN guides, Cybernews has you covered. Check out their recommendations for the best free VPNs for iPhone and iPad, easy ways to fix VPN issues on Android, VPNs with a strict zero-logs policy, VPNs with a free trial, and VPNs for Android TV Box. Additionally, if you’re looking for a VPN for India in 2024, Cybernews has recommendations to get an Indian IP address with a single click.
FAQ
Which Free Android VPN is Best?
When it comes to choosing the best free Android VPN, ProtonVPN is currently the top choice. Their free version uses the WireGuard protocol and offers unlimited simultaneous connections, making it an excellent option for those who value speed and security. However, if you are looking for a more advanced VPN solution, NordVPN offers a free 7-day trial with a massive server fleet and great security features, such as threat protection.
Is There a Completely Free VPN for Android?
Yes, ProtonVPN is a completely free Android VPN that you can use for as long as you like. With unlimited data and servers in three different locations, it offers a reliable and secure VPN service. Additionally, it has a kill switch feature that works as a last resort for your security.
What Free Android VPN Has the Most Servers?
While most free Android VPNs do not disclose the number of servers they offer, ProtonVPN stands out by providing 160 servers in three different countries with their free version. Atlas VPN also offers servers in many locations, but they do not provide an exact number of servers available.
What are some of the best free VPN services for Android devices?
There are several free VPN services available for Android devices, but some of the top-rated ones include ProtonVPN, Windscribe, and TunnelBear. These VPNs offer a good balance of speed, security, and privacy protection.
How can you download a free VPN on your Android without having to sign up?
Most free VPN services require you to sign up before you can download and use their app. However, some VPNs like ProtonVPN and Windscribe offer direct APK downloads from their website, allowing you to bypass the sign-up process.
Can you find a fast and reliable VPN for Android that is free of charge?
While free VPNs may not offer the same level of speed and reliability as paid VPNs, there are still some good options available. ProtonVPN, Windscribe, and TunnelBear are all known for their fast and reliable connections.
Are there any free VPN apps available on Google Play that offer strong privacy protection?
Yes, there are several free VPN apps available on Google Play that offer strong privacy protection. ProtonVPN, Windscribe, and TunnelBear are all good options, as they offer features like AES-256 encryption and a strict no-logs policy.
Is it possible to get unlimited VPN access on Android without any cost?
While most free VPN services have data caps or speed restrictions, there are still some options available for unlimited VPN access on Android. ProtonVPN offers a free plan with unlimited data, while Windscribe and TunnelBear offer a limited amount of free data each month.
What are the most trustworthy free VPN applications for Android according to user reviews?
According to user reviews, some of the most trustworthy free VPN applications for Android include ProtonVPN, Windscribe, and TunnelBear. These VPNs are known for their reliable connections, strong privacy protection, and user-friendly interfaces.
