I reviewed over 50 free Android VPNs to identify the top options that ensure online safety and seamless internet access. Given Android’s vulnerability to security threats, using the best free VPN for Android is crucial.
While paid VPNs generally offer superior features and performance, the best free VPN services can still provide significant privacy and security. They also enable access to geo-restricted content and support streaming without data or speed caps.
For Android users seeking optimal performance, I recommend ExpressVPN. Although it’s a paid option, its robust security, high speeds, and extensive server network make it worth the expense. Additionally, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Quick Overview: Best Free VPN for Android [Updated 2024]
Protecting your online privacy is crucial, and using a free Android VPN can help you achieve that without breaking the bank. Here’s a quick overview of the best free VPN for Android.
- ExpressVPN – Best Free Trial VPN for Android with servers in 105+ countries, and unmatched security. ➔ Get ExpressVPN Special Offers: $6.67/mo - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free!
- Windscribe – Best Free VPN for Android with 10 GB data – Offers 11 free servers with essential security features like a kill switch and IP leak protection for safe browsing.
- Hide.me – Secure Free VPN for Android – With 5GB of data monthly and robust security via the WireGuard protocol and automatic kill switch, it is a secure free VPN.
- ProtonVPN – Totally Free VPN for Android – With unlimited data on free servers in 5 countries and a strict no-logs policy, ProtonVPN prioritizes your privacy and security for online activities.
- TunnelBear – Easy to Use Free Android VPN – Features a user-friendly interface and provides access to 47 servers with a 2GB monthly data allowance for secure browsing.
Jump to see my Testing Methodology for Free VPNs for Android
5 Best Free VPNs for Android [Detailed Analysis – 2024]
Thoroughly analyzed, I discovered the top free VPN software for Android devices that provide secure, reliable, and fast service. These VPNs offer essential features like robust encryption, no-logs policies, and decent speeds for browsing and streaming.
1. ExpressVPN – Best Free Trial VPN for Android
- Ultra-fast servers in 105 Countries
- Excellent unblocking capability for Netflix, Hulu & more
- Best-in-class encryption trusted security, and advanced protection features that block ads, trackers, and harmful sites.
- Connect up to 8 devices simultaneously
- 24/7 customer support through live chat
- 30-day money-back guarantee
ExpressVPN is the best free trial VPN for Android, with a 30-day money-back guarantee to use the service for free. This offer positions ExpressVPN as the best free Android VPN for a trial period for a reliable and high-speed VPN experience.
Android Compatibility and Support
It offers dedicated apps and secure APK files for Android 12, 11, 10, Oreo, Nougat, Pie, Lollipop, and Marshmallow. Also, ExpressVPN’s Media Streamer feature helps set up a VPN on Android TV that does not natively support VPNs.
Server Access and Streaming Capabilities:
With a vast network of servers in 105 countries, users can get unrestricted access to geo-restricted content from around the globe.
The proprietary Lightway protocol of ExpressVPN easily bypasses ISP throttling and ensures that your connection remains fast while safeguarding your online activities.
Speed and Data Limits:
It is hailed as the fastest and most secure VPN, offering unlimited data. I performed an ExpressVPN speed test and achieved a download speed of 89.42 Mbps and an upload speed of 84.64 Mbps on a 100 Mbps internet connection.
ExpressVPN servers provide the fastest speeds for smooth streaming.
Encryption and Privacy:
ExpressVPN relies upon a strict zero-log policy and military-grade AES-256-bit encryption for security and encrypted connection. Moreover, the ExpressVPN kill switch ensures users’ online security and privacy aren’t compromised.
Once you get this VPN free Android, you can use its Network Protection easily.
Pricing and Free Trial
While ExpressVPN costs $6.67/mo - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free, Android users can benefit from a 30-day money-back guarantee to explore its premium features risk-free. Subscribe, download the app, and request a refund using the ExpressVPN free trial if you’re unsatisfied.
To learn more about this provider, check out my ExpressVPN review.
- Blazing-fast speed on all servers
- Sleek app for Android
- Unblocks HBO Max, Netflix, and other streaming platforms
- No IP leaks or collection of user logs
- The monthly subscription plan is slightly expensive
2. Windscribe – Best Free VPN for Android with 10GB of Data
- Strong Encryption Protocols
- Free Version Offered
- 3 Days Money Back Guarantee
- 50 Server Locations (11 in Free Version)
- Accepts Bitcoin Payments
- Offers OpenVPN encryption
Windscribe is the best free VPN for Android phones, offering 10GB of monthly data for streaming or downloading content. Its secure and anonymous service keeps your Android phone’s internet activity hidden from your service provider.
Android Compatibility and Support
It supports Android versions 4.1 or above and offers an apk file in case you face any technical errors while installing Windscribe on your Android phone/tablet. In addition, its Android app is easy to use and lightweight, so it will not affect the overall performance of your device.
Windscribe’s best free VPN Android client is feature-packed and ready to use.
Server Access:
Windscribe offers free servers in 11 different countries to access geo-restricted content. The VPN supports torrenting in only 2 locations (Switzerland and the Netherlands).
Speed and Data Limits:
Its free version has a 10 GB monthly limit, but you can stream about 15-20 minutes daily in SD quality. I conducted a Windscribe speed test and recorded a download speed of 59.11 Mbps and an upload speed of 37.07 Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection.
Windscribe speed test recorded on a 100 Mbps connection.
Encryption and Privacy:
Windscribe uses an AES-256 cipher with SHA512 and a 4096-bit RSA key for data encryption, so there is zero chance of your data being intercepted and decoded during any cyberattack. It also offers split tunneling so you can use a VPN-enabled connection and your Private IP address together on the same device.
Pricing and Free Trial
With 10GB free data, the Windscribe free trial is a great starting point. However, for unlimited bandwidth and access to all servers, it offers a build-a-plan option for $1 per location per month.
Unfortunately, it does not provide a 24/7 live chat feature, but you can create a support ticket, and the customer support team will email you within 24 hours.
To learn more about this provider, check out my Windscribe review.
- Known to be the best high-speed free VPN for Android
- User-friendly app for all Android devices
- Unblocks 6 Netflix regions and BBC iPlayer
- No payment details or credit card required
- Unlimited multi-logins
- 10 GB per month only
- Live chat support has automated messages
3. Hide.me – Secure Free VPN for Android
- Robust Encryption
- P2P Compatibility
- Free Package
- Safe Payment Methods
- 14-day money back guarantee
- Easy to Use
Hide.me is a Secure Free VPN for Android that puts a strong emphasis on security. It even offers a strict no-logging policy that a third-party firm has independently audited.
Android Compatibility and Support
This free VPN for Android TV supports those running Android 7.0 and higher to ensure an optimized streaming experience. You can download its app from the Google Play Store or get this VPN Android free APK file.
Server Access
Hide.me’s free version offers 8 server locations to bypass geo-restriction on popular streaming platforms such as Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video. It is particularly renowned for allowing P2P activities on its free server location.
Speed and Data Limits:
It also offered good connection speed on most of its free servers with unlimited bandwidth. During speed tests conducted on a 100 Mbps connection, I observed an average download speed of 49.24 Mbps and an upload speed of 7.66 Mbps.
Hide.me speed results on a 100 Mbps connection.
A built-in malware blocker is included to enhance the security of your device, making Hide.me one of the safest free VPN for Android options for users who prioritize security during torrenting.
I highly recommend opting for the OpenVPN protocol of this best vpn free Android phone.
Additionally, it offers essential security features such as AES-256-bit encryption, Split Tunneling, Stealth Guard, Advanced IP Leak Protection, IPv6 Support, and popular VPN connection protocols for its Android-free users.
Pricing and Free Trial
Hide.me’s free version is generous with unlimited data allowance. If you need more, the premium plans offer additional benefits at $2.69 per month with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
For more, check out the detailed Hide.me review.
- Unlimited free data per month
- 5 server locations
- Allow P2P activiteis on select free servers.
- The free version doesn’t work with Netflix
- WireGuard is not available on the free plan
4. ProtonVPN – Totally Free VPN for Android
- Freemium Version to the Users
- Users can Cancel at any Time
- In-built Kill Switch
- Multi-Hoping Capability
- OpenVPN and IKEv2(For Mac)
- Tor Servers
ProtonVPN is a totally free VPN for Android it also offers unlimited data and commitment to security which makes it the best free unlimited VPN for Android as well. This means you can enjoy uninterrupted browsing and streaming without worrying about hitting a data cap.
Android Compatibility and Support
ProtonVPN offers robust compatibility with Android devices, ensuring a seamless user experience. The app is available for download on the Google Play Store or via APK from ProtonVPN’s official website for devices without Google Play access.
Server Access
Its free version only has 5 server locations. But the good thing is that its Netherlands server can be used to unblock torrent websites and download files securely without worrying about getting caught.
This best free unlimited VPN for Android offers 5 server locations on the free plan.
Speed test & Data Limit:
Thanks to the implementation of the WireGuard protocol, ProtonVPN is the fastest free VPN for Android, suitable for high-definition streaming and gaming.
In my ProtonVPN speed test, I received a download speed of 52.37 Mbps and an upload speed of 45.19 Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection.
I could browse with these speeds without any issues.
Encryption and Privacy:
ProtonVPN’s no-logs policy ensures that your online activities remain private and utilizes strong encryption to safeguard your data. Its Android application offers a kill-switch feature and an ad-blocker called NetShield that redirects your web traffic on multiple servers to add an extra layer of protection.
Plans/Free Trial:
The Proton VPN free trial stands out with unlimited free bandwidth. Despite lacking live chat support, its overall value places the recommended VPN for Android free to use, offering a compelling mix of extensive features and accessibility.
To find out more, check out my detailed ProtonVPN review.
- AES-256-Bit encryption
- Headquartered in Switzerland
- Kill switch and DNS protection
- Secure Core servers
- Supports torrenting
- Only 5 server places
- Insufficient customer support
- Prone to VPN blocks
5. TunnelBear – Easy to Use Free Android VPN
- Multi-Login Features
- GhostBear Feature
- Secures from DNS Leaks Issues
- Offers Little Free Plan
- Blocker for Google Chrome
- Compatible with Leading Platforms
TunnelBear is an Easy to Use Free Android VPN that offers a user-friendly interface for ease of use. The installation process on an Android phone takes only about 3 minutes.
Android Compatibility and Device Support
TunnelBear supports phones and tablets running Android 8.1 or newer. This broad compatibility ensures that most users can easily browse and stream on their devices. The VPN setup is user-friendly on Android platforms.
Server Access
The free version grants access to servers in 47 countries for secure browsing and accessing geo-restricted content. TunnelBear’s compatibility with streaming services is notable; it efficiently unblocks Netflix US. However, it does not support Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video.
Speed and Data Limits:
Despite a 2GB monthly data limit, TunnelBear offers decent speeds. During the TunnelBear speed test, I achieved a download speed of 55.27 Mbps and an upload speed of 40.21 Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection, which is impressive as a good free VPN for Android.
TunnelBear’s speeds were better than most VPNs on my list.
Encryption and Privacy:
TunnelBear focuses on security and privacy with strong encryption and a no-logs policy. Its Android app has an Always-on feature, automatically connecting you to an active server. It also offers a kill switch called VigilantBear, which blocks all your internet traffic if it becomes unstable.
Once you enable it, you can freely access the internet without risks.
Plans/Free Trial:
The free plan from TunnelBear offers 2GB of data monthly, suitable for casual browsing and basic security needs. For users requiring more data, Tunnelbear’s free trial, followed by affordable subscription plans, makes upgrading easy if needed.
Check out the comprehensive TunnelBear review to learn more about this provider.
- User-friendly VPN service
- Unblocks Netflix US
- AES-256-Bit encryption
- Wide server network
- Zero-log VPN
- 2GB monthly limit
- Insufficient customer support
Comparison Table: The Best Free VPN for Android
Here is a comparison table to help you determine the best free VPN for Android:
| VPNs |  |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rating | 9.8/10 | 7.3/10 | 6.8/10 | 6.5/10 | 6.0/10 |
| Jurisdiction | The British Virgin Islands | Canada | Malaysia | Switzerland | Canada |
| Sign up Required | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Data Usage Limit | Unlimited | 10 GB/mo | Unlimited | Unlimited | 2GB/mo |
| Server Locations | 105 countries | 10 locations | 8 locations | 5 locations | 47 locations |
| Streaming & Torrenting Support | Both | Both | Both | Streaming | Streaming |
| Download Speed on a 100 Mbps | 89.42 Mbps | 59.11 Mbps | 49.24 Mbps | 52.37 Mbps | 55.27 Mbps |
| Kill Swicth | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Android compatibility | Android 14, 13, 12L, Pie, Nougat, Marshmallow & Lollipop | Android 5.1 or above. | Android 6.0 or later | Android 6.0 and above. | Android 8.1 or newer |
| APK Avauable | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| More Info | Visit Site | Visit Site | Visit Site | Visit Site | Visit Site |
Testing Methodology: How to Choose the Best Free VPN Service for Android?
When searching for the best free VPN for Android, it’s important to consider several crucial factors. Here are the criteria for finding a free VPN Android that offers the right balance of performance, security, and convenience:
- Truly Free: Select a free VPN for Android with no subscription or offer a valid money-back guarantee.
- Robust Security and Privacy: Ensure the VPN has strong security measures like AES 256-bit encryption and security protocols to protect your online activities. Also, verify its logging policy to ensure your data remains private.
- Data Limit: Look for a free high speed VPN for Android that provides substantial data to support browsing, streaming, and gaming without interruptions.
- User-Friendly Interface: The free VPN app for Android should have a user-friendly interface to install and navigate on Android devices.
- Streaming Capabilities: Although many free VPNs don’t unblock streaming services, select ones that can access at least a few platforms, such as Funimation and Crackle, and are compatible with Android TV.
- Torrenting Support: If you use torrenting, choose a free VPN for Android that supports torrenting, offering secure P2P servers.
- Effective Customer Support: Though live chat is rare among free services, ensure the VPN provides reliable support through email or a detailed knowledge base.
How Do I Set Up a Free VPN on Android?
To set up a free VPN on Android, follow these steps:
- Select the best free VPN for Android to download. ExpressVPN is recommended for its user-friendly interface and features.
- Locate the VPN in the Google Play Store and tap “Install” to download and install it on your device.
- Launch the VPN app, select a server, and press connect. Your internet connection is now secure.
Is Free Android VPN Safe to Use?
Many free VPNs for Android may not be safe, potentially causing more harm than good. However, I have rigorously tested each VPN on my list to ensure their safety, so you don’t have to worry.
The VPNs I recommend will not compromise your privacy despite the inherent limitations of free services. Here are some potential risks associated with free Android VPNs:
Free Android VPNs to Avoid
With so many free VPNs, be cautious with lesser-known and Android-only VPNs on Google Play, as they may lack advanced security features and could have intrusive ads or inadequate leak protection.
Here are the most notable free Android VPNs that free VPN users must avoid:
| Free VPN Providers | Why these VPNs are avoided for Android? |
|---|---|
| Hola VPN | Hola VPN logs user data and sells it to third parties, risking your information. It is not ideal for streaming HD videos due to slow speed. For more information, please read the Hola VPN review. |
| Hoxx VPN | Hoxx VPN may claim to provide unrestricted access to access restricted sites and hide your IP address, but it lacks reliable user security and privacy features. My Hoxx VPN review revealed that it operates like a botnet, putting your data at risk of being exposed to potential hackers. |
| Betternet | Betternet has poor streaming speed, connection instability, and security concerns unsuitable for Android. Subpar app design and irritating pop-ups further impact user experience. For more information, read the Betternet review. |
More Free VPNs Devices Guides from VPNRanks
| Best Free VPN for Chromecast | Cast any geo-restricted content to your TV using my recommended free Chromecast VPNs. |
| Best Free VPN for Kodi | Unblock the world of entertainment on your Kodi media player using my recommended free VPNs. |
| Best Free VPN for Xbox | Discover free VPNs that work with Xbox for seamless gaming. |
| Best free VPN for Windows | Explore the best free VPN for Windows to enhance your internet experience and access to geo-restricted content. |
FAQs – Best Free VPN for Android
What is the best totally free VPN for Android?
Yes, Proton VPN Free offers a totally free VPN service for Android. It features breakneck speeds, advanced technical capabilities, and a strict no-logs policy, ensuring privacy. The Android app is user-friendly and includes several key features from the desktop version, such as a kill switch and malware protection.
Can I use a free VPN on my Android TV?
Yes, you can use a free VPN on Android TV if the VPN has an app available on the Google Play Store. However, free VPNs often have strict data limits. For extensive streaming, consider a premium VPN that offers unlimited data, enhanced unblocking capabilities, faster speeds, and a money-back guarantee.
Will a free Android VPN work with Netflix?
Most free Android VPNs cannot unlock region-specific Netflix content. Selected premium VPNs, while not free, offer a 30-day money-back guarantee and can access multiple Netflix libraries. Completely free options like Proton VPN and hide.me are limited to Netflix Originals, available globally.
Which free Android VPN allows torrenting?
Some free VPNs like hide.me and Hotspot Shield support torrenting. However, for frequent large file downloads, consider a low-cost premium VPN such as ExpressVPN, which offers unlimited data and a money-back guarantee for risk-free testing.
Does Android have a built-in VPN?
Yes! Android features a built-in VPN client that supports PPTP and L2TP/IPSec protocols, often referred to as legacy VPN.
Is there a free Android VPN that doesn’t require registration?
Yes, ProtonVPN is a fully free VPN for Android without registration. It provides unlimited data and access to servers in three locations and a kill switch for enhanced security.
How do you install a VPN on your Android if you don’t have Google Play?
If your Android device lacks Google Play, download the APK directly from the VPN provider’s website. Once downloaded, manually install the APK file to set up the VPN on your device.
Conclusion
When it comes to the best free VPN for Android, finding the right one is a tricky business. With many VPNs becoming scams and leaking information about Android users, be careful when searching for one.
All these VPNs top the list of 2024 free VPNs. However, for the most optimized and ultimate security, privacy, data protection, and unblocking capabilities on Android devices, I suggest subscribing to a paid VPN provider such as ExpressVPN.
That’s all for my guide on the best free VPN for Android. Get your favorite VPN now!
