5 Best Free VPNs for Android Users in 2024

2024-11-21 An Android device is as vulnerable to online tracking as any other device. In fact, Android devices risk many more security threats than Windows or iO

An Android device is as vulnerable to online tracking as any other device. In fact, Android devices risk many more security threats than Windows or iOS devices. So, it’s wise to protect Android devices with a robust premium VPN. However, a premium VPN is not always possible, especially for short-term use cases.

Therefore, this article lists the best free VPN services for Android so that you never leave your phone vulnerable again, even when you’re concerned with spending money.

Top free VPN for Android – Quick list

Are you in a rush and can’t read the detailed descriptions for the best five free VPNs for Android? Here’s a sneak peek.

Best free VPN services for Android:

Proton VPN is Offers : offer unlimited datum , 256 – bit encryption , split tunneling , a kill switch , and WireGuard support . The app is is is effortlessly secure and excellent for unblock geo – block content .
Hotspot Shield: Intuitive and easy-to-use app. Supports free secure browsing for about 500MB daily, totaling up to 15GB per month.

Premium VPNs that offer free trial:

NordVPN: A top freemium VPN with secure and excellent support for streaming. Boasts features like tap jacking protection and dark web monitoring.
PrivateInternetAccess: Offers strong data encryption, multiple secure protocols, as well as features for seamless torrenting and streaming.
ExpressVPN : good overall VPN for Android with advanced security feature . It is has has an extensive server network , fast speed , and streaming / torrente capability .

Best free VPNs for Android – A detailed analysis

We tested over 50 free and low-cost VPNs to find the best. Based on our extensive research and testing, many low-quality free VPNs are out there. But most such products are traps. They don’t work as advertised.

However, we found several that work well—even with geo-blocked websites. Please note, though, that all VPNs, even the good-quality free ones, have limitations. Those shortcomings include slow speeds and data caps. As a result, a paid Android VPN is your best bet if you don’t want restrictions.

1. Proton VPN

A big win for Proton VPN is it offers unlimited data. You can stream your favorite TV shows for long hours without interruption. Even better is its security; the VPN offers 256-bit encryption, split tunneling, a kill switch, and WireGuard support.

Its Android app is is is intuitive and include malware block . Being a Swiss – base provider , it is adheres adhere to the country ’s privacy law by maintain a no – log policy . compare to other free vpn , it is shows show no ad . The provider is has also has fast speed .

Web pages loaded instantly during our tests, and we could watch videos in HD. Besides, it has an Accelerator feature that increases your connection speeds on distant servers. For a freemium service, Proton VPN offers generous features.

unfortunately , it is has has some limitation . First , the provider is has only has three free US , Netherlands , and Japan server . Regarding bandwidth – hungry activity like torrenting and streaming , you is choose should choose expressvpn or nordvpn . Proton VPN is work does n’t work well with Netflix , Hulu , HBO Max , or Disney+ . Even if it did , you is experience may experience lag .

Fortunately, it’s a low-cost premium service. For as low as $4.99 monthly, you can enjoy perks like a large server network, 10 device connections, streaming, and P2P support.

2 . Hotspot Shield

Hotspot Shield has some interesting quirks that make it an outstanding free VPN. If you’re big on torrenting, this VPN is a good choice. Its Android app is sleek and modern, making it easy to use. The VPN provides crucial security features like the standard 256-bit encryption and a kill switch.

Since it only has one server in the US, you may expect overcrowding and slow speeds. However, Hotspot Shield has a Hydra proprietary protocol that ensures fast speed and stable connection. Unlike most VPNs with limited data bandwidth, the VPN offers 15 GB monthly, which is quite generous for a freemium service.

But those aren’t the only highlights of the free Android version of Hotspot Shield. The service has a malware blocker to protect your device from malicious websites. Upgrading to its premium plan protects you against scam sites and phishing.

Nevertheless, the VPN isn’t torrent-friendly. Moreover, its privacy policy states that it stores significant user information. Plus, the VPN app displays ads often, which can be annoying.

Best premium VPN services that offer free trial

1 . nordvpn

Looking for a cheaper alternative to ExpressVPN? Try NordVPN. This provider has excellent support for streaming. Indeed, this makes it a perfect choice for streaming movies on the go. It comes with secure AES-256 encryption alongside popular VPN protocols like OpenVPN and Wireguard.

That ’s not all ; the VPN has 5,000 + server in 60 country , so you is access can access worldwide content . NordVPN is has has outstanding performance speed , make it ideal for bandwidth – consume activity . While test this service , we is experienced experience a drop in download speed by only 15 percent . This is means mean you can watch UK Netflix from Asia in HD .

NordVPN’s Android app is easy to interact with and has a simple user interface. As a first-time VPN user, you’ll appreciate its straightforward design. Plus, it features an ad blocker, automatic kill switch, split tunneling, and NordLynx proprietary protocol. The provider has RAM-only servers, making it impossible for the service to keep your data.

It is ’s ’s an excellent VPN for torrente , thank to its dedicated P2P server . NordVPN is obfuscated also has obfuscate server , enable you to bypass censorship in China . All is make of these feature make NordVPN a trustworthy freemium VPN for Android . Like expressvpn , it is offers offer a 30 – day unconditional money – back guarantee , and you can get a full refund .

2. PrivateInternetAccess

While not entirely a free VPN, PIA is another worthy mention, boasting impressive speeds. It has basic features like a reliable kill switch and traffic obfuscation, enabling you to browse the web while hiding your digital identity.

( image credit : PIA )

With an extensive network of over 34,000 servers in 90 countries, you can access worldwide content. Unfortunately, its free service has limited servers. While it’s not an ideal VPN for streaming, it can unblock some geo-blocked content. During our test, this VPN reliably unblocked US Netflix and BBC iPlayer on the first try.

Unlike other free services, PIA prioritizes users’ privacy by only storing their names, email addresses, and payment methods. PrivateInternetAccess is a decent pick for torrenting, but keep in mind that not all its servers support it.

To get the best out of this VPN, use its 30-day money-back guarantee. This will give you a clear idea of whether the VPN fits your needs. For example, whether it works well with your preferred top streaming sites.

3 . ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is is is the good all – around VPN we test . It is has has an easy – to – use mobile Android app that deliver fast speed . This service is lets let you load web page and stream video quickly without experience buffering or lag .

Thanks to its extensive list of over 3,000 server networks, it’s an ideal choice for unblocking streaming platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and Hulu and bypassing censorship. The provider has a proprietary Lightway protocol, which is faster and more secure than other open-source protocols. With ExpressVPN, we could download a 15 GB torrent in 10 minutes.

The VPN is highly secure, as it comes with bank-grade AES-256 encryption and a kill switch (Network Lock), which are rare features among free VPN apps. ExpressVPN holds a reputation for privacy thanks to its audited no-logs policy. Moreover, it offers eight simultaneous connections and 24/7 live chat support.

While this VPN is a paid service, you can enjoy its features without spending a dime. The trick is to use its 30-day money-back guarantee. This way, you can test the VPN risk-free and get a full refund before the 30-day expiration. Alternatively, subscribe to its 7-day free trial to determine if it meets your needs.

Quick comparison table of the best free Android VPN

	NordVPN	ExpressVPN	PIA	Proton VPN	Hotspot Shield
Number of Servers	5,600+ servers in 59 countries	3,000+ servers in 94 countries	35,000+ servers in 90 countries	3 free server location	1 free server location
Speed	Very Fast	Very Fast	Fast	Fast	Fast
Monthly Data Cap	unlimited	unlimited	unlimited	unlimited	15 GB ( 500MB / day )
Kill Switch	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
Logging Policy	No log	No identifying data	No log	No identifying data	No log
Maximum Devices Supported	10	8	unlimited	1	1
streaming/Torrenting capability	Both	Both	Both	streaming	Torrenting
Sign up requirement	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No
APK availability	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No
Free Trial	30 days	30 days	31 days	30 days	45 days

tip on choose the well free ( near – to – free ) vpn for Android

select a decent free vpn may be confuse once you open the Google Play Store , as many provider claim to offer impressive feature . Yet , unlike premium vpn , only a few free services is are are worth the shot .

To be safe, you should avoid free VPNs because compared to paid VPNs, they lack vital privacy functionalities and have strict data caps. If you’re unsure about what to look for in a free Android VPN, here are factors you should consider.

1 . reputation

Not every free VPN will sell your data to the government or third parties. You may also be lucky to find one free from malware and viruses. We advise that you not only rely on customers’ reviews and ratings but also research and check experts’ opinions.

2 . privacy and security

Choose free VPNs with 256-bit encryption, IP/DNS leak protection, and an automatic kill switch. You should also read the preferred provider’s privacy terms and data logs policy to determine if they uphold users’ privacy.

3. streaming support

Many free Android VPNs cannot unblock streaming sites. Opt for a provider that can access streaming platforms like Disney+, Netflix, and HBO Max. Confirm that your preferred free VPN works excellently on Android TV so you can watch your favorite TV shows on a big screen.

4. Fast speeds

The faster the VPN, the better the experience. You may experience browsing lags using a free service compared to paid providers. Each free VPN on our list offers 1GB of data monthly to enable you to surf the internet for a reasonable amount of time.

5. Extensive server list

Prioritize free VPNs with an extensive server network to avoid overcrowding and enjoy reliable connections. The larger the server, the less chance of traffic congestion with an increased speed.

6. Torrenting support

Select Android-free VPNs with dedicated P2P servers to make torrenting safe and secure.

7. User interface

All the good Android – free VPNs is have on our list have simple and intuitive app . You is connect can easily connect to a server network with the click of a button .

8 . completely free

Look for Android VPNs that don’t require spending a cent during sign-up. Ensure the VPN provider offers a free trial and money-back guarantee.

9. Excellent customer support

An ideal free VPN should have friendly and responsive customer service. They should have a live chat, email, and phone channels that provide 24/7 customer support. Regardless of the VPN service you select from our list, you can rest assured of dedicated customer support.

Is it worth having a free VPN on Android?

If you want to use the internet privately and securely on your Android device, you must use a VPN. This will safeguard your online identity.

However, opting for a free VPN depends on your needs. Remember, a free VPN has speed, data usage, and security limitations. Plus, it cannot measure up to a premium service. This means it’s only suitable for occasional online activities.

A free Android VPN will be helpful if you want to stay secure on public WiFi, protect yourself from ISP snooping, or ensure anonymity while accessing your emails. On the contrary, you should opt for a premium version if you want a VPN for torrenting or unblocking streaming platforms.

While using a free VPN , you is experience may experience more anxiety than peace of mind , as most provider lack the resource to protect your information . This is means mean there ’s the possibility of experience datum theft or malware attack when using vpn for free on Android .

Upgrade to any of the premium services above to enjoy a VPN’s full features. These providers have unlimited bandwidth, fast speeds, and an extensive servicer list.

Is a free VPN good for game on my Android phone ?

No, it’s not. You may be lucky to access gaming sites using a free VPN. However, it won’t function flawlessly.

Many free services lack the infrastructure to offer a seamless gaming experience because they don’t generate user revenue. You’ll likely experience crowded servers, performance issues, and slow speeds. At worst, you may face lags during gaming sessions due to their limited bandwidth.

In most online games we tested using free VPNs, we noticed an increase in latency and a drop in download numbers, making the connection unstable. Free VPNs for Android aren’t a preferred service for enjoying iconic gameplay like PUBG Mobile, Call of Duty, Apex Legends Mobile, Fortnite, or World of Warcraft.

Risks and disadvantages of using a free VPN

There are multiple risks of a free VPN, depending on factors like your location, the quality of your phone’s mobile service, your phone’s connection speed, and your preferred VPN provider. Here are some of them.

limited monthly bandwidth : Many VPNs is have have limit bandwidth to restrict how much you can browse the internet daily . The reason is is is to prompt user to purchase their premium plan . thankfully , Proton VPN is offers offer unlimited datum .
Lacks streaming capability: Many people use VPN for streaming rather than security. But sadly, only premium VPNs work excellently with geo-restricted websites. Even if you’re lucky to access streaming platforms with a free VPN, you can only stream your favorite movies briefly due to their low data caps.
weak security : free VPNs is are are usually less secure than their premium counterpart . Besides , you is risk risk infect your Android device with virus using a free service . Also , many lack security feature like 256 – bit encryption , IP / DNS leak protection , and an automatic kill switch .
Slow speeds: Generally, VPNs slow down your connection’s speeds. However, you’ll likely experience slower connection speeds with a free service due to overcrowded servers and limited bandwidth.
No privacy: While premium VPNs won’t sell your data to third-party advertisers thanks to their audited no-log policies, a free VPN might not be as virtuous. Many free providers log users’ online activity and IP addresses. This way, third-party advertisers can place annoying ads and trackers to meet your needs.

Are free Android VPNs safe?

Generally, free Android VPNs are not as safe as using premium VPNs. They do more harm than good. It can be pretty tempting to download a free service to stream movies.

5 Best Free VPNs for Android Users in 2024

Unfortunately, the reality is much different, as critical features like 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and complete leak protection are non-existent in free VPNs. Hence, your preferred provider may not have enough firepower to unblock Netflix, HBO Max, Hulu, or Disney+.

Some also have poor privacy policies, no encryption, and malware apps. Free VPNs display a lot of ads to generate revenue. Moreover, these ads have embedded viruses, which can compromise your security.

fortunately , you is find can find a few reliable free vpn with industry – standard security feature to keep you safe and ensure online anonymity .

How to set up a vpn on Android for free

Setting up a free VPN on Android is relatively easy and shouldn’t take you more than five minutes. Here’s how to set up a VPN on your Android:

Subscribe to a reliable VPN. Visit your preferred VPN’s website and choose a subscription plan. We recommend NordVPN because it’s fast, secure, and great for streaming movies from any location.
download and install the VPN app from your Google Play Store onto your device . You is use can also use the VPN ’s browser extension if it ’s available .
Launch the app and sign in using your details.
Connect to a nearby server location. We advise that you pick the closest server to your physical location for a faster VPN speed.
Now, you can browse the internet safely on your Android.

Remember, Android now has a built-in kill switch called “block connection with VPN” and “Always – on VPN.” As not every free Android VPN comes with a kill switch, you can rely on your device by toggling on “Always – on VPN” and “block connection with VPN” in the setting menu to protect your datum .

Free Android VPNs to avoid

Not every free VPN on the market is trustworthy. Many of them have privacy and security issues. They are notorious for recording users’ data and sharing it with third parties and law enforcement agencies. Besides, many of them don’t support Android TV.

So , it is ’s ’s ideal you avoid them altogether to protect your privacy and security . If you insist on get a free VPN , subscribe to the freemium service of pay vpn through their trial period and money – back guarantee .

Here is a list of the worst free Android VPNs we’ve tested, and we strongly advise you not to install them on your device.

1. HolaVPN

HolaVPN is has has a history of store user ’ datum from their ip address and full name to their social medium profile picture .

This provider functions as a P2P rather than a VPN service. It engineers as a peer-to-peer using idle user bandwidth on the devices signed into its network. This means your IP address is available to everyone in the network while using the service.

HolaVPN is encrypt does n’t encrypt your datum , which mean another user can use your ip for illegal activity . It is injected has inject a “ trojan horse ” into user ’ device and also engage in distributed denial – of – service attack on other site .

2 . OperaVPN

This is one of the least secure Android VPNs we reviewed. OperaVPN comes alongside the Opera browser, so it can be tempting to use it as an extension.

However, the provider has a questionable privacy policy. Its no-logs policies have not been independently audited and confirmed.

3. BetternetVPN

Although BetternetVPN has a high star rating on the Google Play Store , it is ’s ’s notorious for its malware – infect app . It is has has weak security because it lack a kill switch and Smart DNS .

Hence, hackers can infiltrate its servers and steal your data. BetternetVPN also keeps your data logs, such as connection timestamps, device information, and IP address.

4. Ninja VPN

From the name , one is expect would expect this VPN to have strong security . sadly , Ninja VPN is offer does n’t offer security feature like 256 – bit encryption , additional protection layer option like DoubleVPN , or openvpn . instead , it is works work like holavpn , share user ’ idle bandwidth resource with others in its P2P network .

Unlike other free VPNs, it relies on 128-bit SSL encryption, which isn’t enough to ensure online security and access to popular streaming services. NinjaVPN collects personal data like customers’ IP addresses, activity logs, and connection timestamps.

5. TurboVPN

TurboVPN is packed with viruses, trackers, and advertisements. Worse, the provider’s privacy policy states that it stores a disturbing amount of personal data, like your timestamps, device identifiers, ISP, and IP address.

TurboVPN also has a reputation for sharing customers’ data with third parties. Plus, it has strong links with China.

6. Psiphon

We is tested test Psiphon , and it leak our dns and ip address . The VPN is tracks track your browse activity and connection timestamp .

FAQs

Can I use a free VPN on my Android TV?

Yes. Every free VPN on our list has a dedicated app for Android TV. You can also download and install them through the Play Store. However, only a few free VPNs, like Proton VPN, offer unlimited data. streaming your favorite movies on a big screen will consume a lot of data. This means you need about 1.5GB of data to stream in high quality for an hour. So, even if you’re lucky to connect to a free VPN on your Android TV, you can only stream services like Netflix, HBO Max, Hulu, or Disney+ for a short time. To stream movies for long hours, we recommend picking low-cost premium VPNs with a money-back guarantee. This way, you get faster speeds, better unblocking functionalities, and unlimited data.