Do you know when you are online, doing your thing, like watching youtube videos, buying stuff, or just looking at different sites? You need to keep all of your data safe and secure. This is where a VPN comes in – it’s like your bodyguard in the digital world. If you have an iPhone or iPad and are looking for the best free VPN in 2023, you are in the right place.
There are many VPN apps on the Appstore for iPhone and iPad users, how do you decide the best one for your needs? In this post, I will be reviewing the Top 10 best free VPN apps for iPhone in 2023, and explore their features, pros, cons, and pricing, to help you make an informed decision.
Quick Overview
| VPN Name | Key Features | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| ExpressVPN | Fast, Secure, Reliable | General Users |
| IPVanish | Strong Privacy | Privacy-Conscious Users |
| VPN Surfshark | Affordable, Versatile | Budget-Conscious Users |
| CyberGhost VPN | User-Friendly | Beginners |
| Proton VPN | High Security | Security-Conscious Users |
| NordVPN | Wide Server Network | Global Users |
| SonicWall Mobile Connect | Business Security | Business Users |
| FortiClient VPN | Robust Security | Enterprise Users |
| Hola VPN | Peer-to-Peer VPN | Content Streamers |
| Hook VPN | Easy-to-use, Fast | Casual Users |
What is a VPN?
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is an easy-to-use tool that creates a protected path between your device and the Internet. It hides your IP address, encrypts your data, and allows you to access geo-restricted content effortlessly. In simple terms, a VPN ensures your online privacy and enhances your security as you explore today’s digital world.
Where to Use a VPN?
I suggest you use a VPN when you are online, especially when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks such as those in coffee shops or airports. Even at home, VPNs are also useful if you want to access geo-blocked content or keep your online activities private.
Now, let’s dive into the top 10 free VPN apps for iPhone in 2023.
1. ExpressVPN
The first VPN on our list is ExpressVPN. This is a popular VPN service that offers a wide range of features, including strong encryption, a large server network, and fast speeds. It supports iPhone 6 and later. ExpressVPN has 3,000 servers in 94 countries, including the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, and Australia. Its paid plans start at $8.32 per month.
Features
- Hide your iPhone’s IP address
- Unblock censored websites
- IKEv2 encryption protocols
- Protecting you from DDoS attacks
- Increase Gaming ping
Pros
- Fastest VPN
- Strong security features
- 3000 servers across 94 countries
- Multilingual interface
Cons
- The free version comes with limited features
- Costly
Best For: Users looking for high-speed connections and strong security.
2. IPVanish
IPVanish is the second VPN on our list. It’s a popular one and also has a free plan. With this free plan, you get unlimited data and can connect to over 2,200 servers across 75 countries. But, the free plan does leave out a few features, like splitting your internet use between a VPN and regular connection (split tunneling) or directing incoming connections to specific routes (port forwarding). If you want those features, you’ll need to check out their paid plans, which start at $3.33 each month.
Features
- Not record any of your activity
- Connect On Demand
- Automatically suggest the fastest VPN server
- Quicker connections
Pros
- Unmetered connections
- Reliable security
- Many server locations
Cons
- Some servers may be slow
Best For: Those who need to connect multiple devices.
3. VPN Surfshark
Surfshark is the third VPN we’re looking at. It’s newer on the market but it’s quickly becoming a huge hit because it’s cheap and offers some great features. With Surfshark’s free plan, you can use as much data as you want and connect to over 3,200 servers in 100 countries. But, it does not have an ad-blocking feature or free malware protection. If you want it, the paid plan starts at $3.33 per month.
Features
- Encrypt your internet activity
- Change your IP address
- Support Unlimited devices
- 24/7 customer support
- Block ads and malware
- Stay safe on public Wi-Fi
- Protect your email accounts
Pros
- Support for an unlimited number of devices
- Customizable access
- Strong security
Cons
- Sometimes Speed is Low
Best For: Users with multiple devices who want customizable settings.
4. CyberGhost VPN
Next is CyberGhost. This app is very popular and also has a free plan. You can use unlimited data, connecting to over 9,289 servers in 91 countries. But, if you want to connect multiple devices simultaneously or access content that is usually blocked in your country, you will need to check out their paid plans which start at $2.75 per month.
Features
- No Logs Policy
- Hide your location with 256-bit AES encryption
- Large Server Fleet
- 45 Days Money-Back Guarantee
- Automatic kill switch
Pros
- Big server network
- Powerful security features
Cons
- The free version has limited server access
Best For: Users who prioritize an extensive server network and strong security features.
5. Proton VPN
Proton VPN is a free VPN service owned by ProtonMail, a popular email service known for its privacy features. Its free plan gives you unlimited access to data and servers in three countries – the United States, the Netherlands, and Switzerland. In addition, it will not keep any logs or limit your bandwidth. The paid version, starting at $5.28 a month, gets you high-speed servers and a Secure Core VPN.
Features
- Free VPN
- 10 Gbps server network speed
- Adblocker
- Tor over VPN
Pros
- Unlimited bandwidth
- Strict privacy laws
- No-logs policy
Cons
- Limited servers for free users
Best For: Privacy-focused users and those who need unlimited bandwidth.
6. NordVPN
Next up is NordVPN, a popular choice in the VPN world. It has a lot to offer, like strong privacy, a lot of servers, and quick speeds. The free version limits you to 1GB of data per month, but that should cover basic internet usage. With NordVPN, you can connect to over 5,709 servers in 60 countries. If you want more, like faster speeds and protection on up to 6 devices, the paid plans start at $3.29 a month.
Features
- Threat Protection
- Hide your IP
- Double VPN
- Private DNS
- Split tunneling
Pros
- Double VPN
- Wide server network
- CyberSec feature
Cons
- Double encryption may slow down the speed
Best For: Users looking for enhanced security features and an extensive server network.
7. SonicWall Mobile Connect
SonicWall Mobile Connect is a VPN service designed for businesses. SonicWall Mobile Connect’s free plan includes unlimited data and access to servers in 20 countries. It’s completely free, which makes it an excellent choice for budget users.
Features
- Protect corporate data
- Highly Configurable
- Secure your business
Pros
- Layer 3 communication
- Policy-enforced security
Cons
- Less user-friendly interface
- No advanced features
Best For: Users who are looking for a completely free VPN and those who prioritize security policies.
8. FortiClient VPN
FortiClient VPN is another business-oriented service. It is a reliable free VPN that provides secure connections with both SSL and IPSEC VPN. It also has endpoint protection and works on a range of operating systems.
Features
- Endpoint Protection
- Web Filtering
- Software Inventory Management
Pros
- SSL and IPSEC VPN
- Wide OS compatibility
- Endpoint protection
Cons
- Interface Complicated to beginners
Best For: Users are looking for a variety of VPN protocols and broad compatibility with operating systems.
9. Hola VPN
Hola VPN is a speedy, free VPN. You get unlimited data and access to servers in over 100 countries. The premium version, which starts at $2.99 per month, offers faster connections and can be used on up to 10 devices. Despite this, some countries have banned the Hola app from their app store due to privacy concerns.
Features
- Access worldwide content
- Lighting-Fast Speeds
- Optimized Streaming
- Connect up to 10 Devices
Pros
- Peer-to-peer service
- Reliable encryption
Cons
- Our IP address can be used as a node for other users
Best For: Users who are looking for a unique VPN service and those who want to apply the VPN only to specific applications.
10. Hook VPN
Finally, Hook VPN is a free VPN proxy designed for folks who want to access content that’s usually blocked in their location. It’s great for light internet use, with unlimited bandwidth and good speeds. Plus, you don’t have to sign up, so your privacy is protected.
Features
- 1000+ worldwide network servers
- Ad Block and a Private Browser
- Triple encryption for total security
- Super Ad Block stops ads
Pros
- Unlimited bandwidth
- No registration required
- Simple interface
Cons
- Limited servers
Best For: Regular internet users are looking for simple and free VPN services.
That’s it.
Keep in mind, a VPN is your best buddy when it comes to staying safe online. Free VPNs can give you some basic protection, but if you really want to beef up your security and get better performance, think about getting a paid plan. We care about what you think, so don’t be shy – tell us about your favorite VPNs in the comments below.
FAQs
Are free VPNs safe?
Free VPN can provide basic security, but it may lack the advanced security features found in the paid plans.
Can VPNs increase internet speed?
VPN usually slows down internet speed due to encryption. However, if your internet service provider is throttling your internet speed, a VPN can help bypass this and potentially improve speed.
