What are the Best VPN apps for Android in 2024?

VPNs are tools used by millions of internet users on both mobile devices and computers. In this review, we’re going to cover what a VPN is, what a VPN is not, and how a VPN can serve you. From there, we’ll share the best VPN for Android users, so you can be sure you’re using the best tools available.

What is a VPN?

A VPN—or a virtual private network— allows you to use the internet without fear of having your sensitive information spied on or tracked by snoopers. VPNs provide devices with a secure connection to the internet by masking your IP address and routing your web traffic through a private server.

The purpose of using a VPN connection is to increase your online privacy. With your web traffic routed through a common VPN server, someone who is trying to snoop and track your information will only see the location of the VPN server and the web traffic of all the VPN’s users.

What a VPN Does Not Do

A common misconception about VPNs is that they provide complete protection against online threats such as adware, spyware, and viruses. This is not the case. While VPNs do help keep your online activity hidden, they are not the same as antivirus software which is designed specifically to combat such threats.

Virtual private networks cannot stop a virus from getting on your computer or scan your computer for malware. It’s important to keep this in mind, so you continue to practice good online habits and stay safe while browsing the web through your VPN.

Why Use a VPN

VPN users will tell you that they use their VPN for a variety of reasons. Many people like the privacy provided by connecting to the internet via an encrypted tunnel whether they’re browsing from home or on an insecure network like at a café or a hotel.

What’s more, many people use VPNs to access geo-restricted content like Netflix. The best Android VPN app allows users in Canada to watch movies on Netflix only offered in New Zealand. Not only that, but many VPN users are in geographical areas where content is restricted or banned— VPNs can help users get around such restrictions.

Our Android VPN Review Process

We reviewed various VPNs for android devices based on four key points that determine VPN quality. Our four criteria are user friendliness, security features, number of servers and locations, and streaming capabilities.

What Does it Mean for an App to Be User Friendly?

The term user-friendly describes how easy and intuitive an application is to use. The best VPN for Android should be user-friendly meaning it’s easy to turn on, change the settings, change a server location, and turn off.

What Constitutes Security for a VPN?

The security rating of a VPN comes down to what protections the software has in place to safeguard your data and IP address. This is key for a VPN as you want to have the proper protection against trackers and other online threats.

What Are Servers and Why Are They Important?

Servers let you connect to the internet, mask your IP address, and shield your web traffic. The more servers a VPN has and the more server locations available, the more flexibility and likely privacy you have.

What Does It Mean to Be Streaming Compatible?

Streaming services like Netflix have begun cracking down on VPN users. However, the best VPN services will allow you to bypass any streaming service’s restrictions and allow you to stream content from anywhere in the world.

Our picks for the best Android VPN apps are detailed below: