3 Best VPNs for iPhone Users in 2026

How we chose the best VPNs for iPhone users

VPNs behave differently on iPhone than they do on desktop systems. Apple tightly controls background activity and network access, which means a VPN app must be designed specifically for iOS to be reliable. A VPN that looks good on paper can still feel frustrating on iPhone if it disconnects, fails to reconnect after sleep, or drains battery.

For this page, we focused on VPNs that consistently behave well on iPhone in everyday situations: switching between Wi‑Fi and cellular, locking and unlocking the device, and running in the background for long periods without manual intervention.

What actually matters in an iPhone VPN

When people search for “best VPN for iPhone,” they often focus on speed alone. In reality, stability is usually more important. A slightly slower VPN that stays connected is more useful than a fast one that drops the tunnel when the screen locks.

A good iPhone VPN should reconnect automatically, handle network changes gracefully, and integrate cleanly with iOS system settings. Modern protocols help with performance, but app quality and maintenance matter just as much.

#1 NordVPN

NordVPN is a strong choice for iPhone users who want a VPN that “just works.” Its iOS app is well maintained and designed to cooperate with Apple’s networking rules instead of fighting them.

For most users, NordVPN offers a good balance of privacy, performance, and convenience. It reconnects quickly after sleep, handles network changes reliably, and does not require constant manual interaction.

#2 Surfshark

Surfshark is a popular option for users who want flexibility across multiple devices. On iPhone, the app is simple and responsive, making it easy to connect without digging through complex settings.

While Surfshark focuses on value, it still performs well for everyday iPhone tasks like browsing, messaging, and streaming. It is especially convenient if you use more than one device regularly.

#3 Mullvad

Mullvad takes a different approach by prioritising privacy and simplicity. Instead of collecting personal details, it uses a minimal account system and focuses on transparent operation.

For iPhone users who care more about privacy posture than convenience features, Mullvad is a solid option. The iOS app is clean, predictable, and free from unnecessary extras.

Common reasons people use a VPN on iPhone

Public Wi‑Fi protection

Public Wi‑Fi networks are one of the most common reasons people install a VPN on iPhone. A VPN encrypts traffic between your device and the VPN server, reducing exposure on shared or untrusted networks.

Privacy from network-level tracking

While a VPN does not make you anonymous, it can limit how much your internet provider or network operator can see directly. For many users, this additional privacy layer is reason enough to keep a VPN enabled.

Travel and network changes

iPhones frequently switch between networks when traveling. A good VPN should handle these transitions without dropping connections or requiring manual reconnects.

Recommended VPN settings on iPhone

Enable automatic connection where available so the VPN activates on untrusted networks. If your app supports a kill switch or system-level traffic protection, turning it on helps prevent accidental traffic leaks.

FAQ: VPNs for iPhone users