iPhones are secure out of the box, but they don’t hide your IP, encrypt your app traffic, or protect you on public Wi-Fi. In 2025, when mobile threats, censorship, and location tracking are all on the rise, using a VPN is one of the smartest upgrades you can make.
We tested dozens of VPNs to find the fastest, most privacy-focused options for iPhone users. Our top picks include great apps, fast servers, minimal battery consumption, and bonus tools such as ad blocking and breach detection.
Our top recommendation is Total VPN, which combines excellent speed with built-in ad blocking and antivirus protection. If you need unlimited device protection or more advanced tools, Surfshark VPN and NordVPN are strong alternatives.
Quick Comparison: Best iPhone VPNs in 2025
| VPN | Best For | Key Features | iOS Support | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TotalVPN | Simple, secure browsing on iPhone |
AES-256 encryption Always-On VPN + iOS Kill Switch App Store-verified privacy practices |
iOS 13+, iPhone & iPad optimized |
Fast setup, beginner-friendly UI Very light on battery and storage |
No split tunneling No iCloud Private Relay integration |
| Surfshark VPN | Privacy-first Apple users |
CleanWeb ad/tracker blocker Smart auto-connect + Whitelister Unlimited device sync |
iOS 13+, M-series chip optimized |
Works well with iCloud and Apple ID apps Smooth UI with fast switching |
Ad blocking less consistent on Safari |
| NordVPN | Power users & secure streaming |
Threat Protection Lite Meshnet for secure device linking Siri Shortcuts + Apple Keychain login |
iOS 13+, iPadOS ready |
Fastest speeds with NordLynx Great for media and remote access |
Heavier app than others Slightly steeper learning curve |
1. Why TotalVPN Is a Top VPN Choice for iPhone in 2025
TotalVPN delivers everything an iPhone user needs in 2025: strong encryption, a lightweight app, seamless performance, and full integration with iOS’s native privacy tools. It’s designed for people who want solid security and streaming access without digging through complex menus.
Why We Recommend TotalVPN for iPhone:
1. Strong iOS Integration & Privacy Defaults: TotalVPN is fully compatible with Always-On VPN and Apple’s built-in Kill Switch, giving iPhone users persistent protection across all Wi-Fi and mobile connections. The app is vetted through the App Store’s privacy labels, with no hidden trackers or data harvesting.
2. Fast Streaming & Private Browsing: Whether you’re watching Netflix, YouTube, or BBC iPlayer, TotalVPN delivers stable, buffer-free streaming on LTE, 5G, and Wi-Fi. Its U.S. and UK servers were especially effective for accessing geo-blocked content without lag.
3. One-Tap Simplicity
The iOS app is clean, minimal, and built for speed. Features include:
- Quick Connect
- Location filters
- Auto-connect on Wi-Fi
- Minimal permissions
It’s perfect for users who want a “just works” VPN that doesn’t drain their battery or clutter their screen.
4. AES-256 Encryption & Zero Logging: Under the hood, TotalVPN uses AES-256 encryption with IKEv2/IPSec, the most stable and battery-efficient protocol for iOS. The company’s strict no-logs policy is independently verified, and connection data is never stored.
5. Lightweight, Efficient, and iCloud-Friendly: At just ~30MB in size, the app installs quickly and performs smoothly even on older iPhones. It runs in the background without interfering with iCloud sync, Messages, or FaceTime.
Pros:
- App Store privacy transparency and minimal permissions
- Always-On VPN and Kill Switch supported
- Great streaming access and fast server switching
- Very low battery and data usage
- Clean, beginner-friendly interface
Cons
- No split tunneling (not available on iOS)
- No integration with iCloud Private Relay (by design)
- Fewer advanced controls for power users
TotalVPN Plans:
Free Plan
- Limited servers and reduced speeds
- No streaming or torrent support
- Occasional in-app upsell prompts
Premium Plan
- Full-speed access to all servers
- VPN + Ad Blocker + Antivirus suite
- HD streaming and unlimited bandwidth
- Starts at $1.59/month (annual plan)
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Payment Methods:
- Accepted: Apple Pay, Visa, Mastercard, PayPal
- Billing: Monthly, annual, or 2-year plans via in-app purchases or browser checkout
Best For:
- iPhone users looking for a simple, effective VPN
- Travelers and remote workers who use public Wi-Fi
- Streamers who want region-unlocked content on mobile
Final Word:
TotalVPN is ideal for iPhone users who want a fast, low-hassle, secure VPN that integrates cleanly into the iOS experience. Whether you’re unlocking streaming content, browsing securely on public networks, or simply looking for peace of mind, TotalVPN does the job with speed and style.
2. Why Surfshark VPN Is a Smart Choice for iPhone in 2025
Surfshark VPN is one of the most fully-featured VPNs in the App Store in 2025. It blends advanced privacy tools with an elegant iOS app that feels like a natural part of the Apple ecosystem. If you want real-time protection, ad blocking, and unlimited device use, Surfshark is an outstanding option for your iPhone.
Why We Recommend Surfshark for iPhone:
1. Unlimited Devices & iCloud-Friendly Performance: With Surfshark, a single account covers all your Apple devices, including iPhones, iPads, and Macs – no limits. It runs efficiently in the background, plays nicely with iCloud, and doesn’t interfere with syncing, FaceTime, or AirDrop.
2. CleanWeb 2.0 for Ad & Tracker Blocking: Surfshark’s CleanWeb 2.0 blocks intrusive ads, trackers, and malicious domains system-wide, even outside of Safari. It’s particularly useful for mobile news apps, social media, and games that serve aggressive third-party content.
3. Smart Auto-Connect & Trusted Networks: You can configure Surfshark to auto-connect on untrusted Wi-Fi or mobile data and exclude known safe networks (like home or work). This lets you automate your privacy based on real-world behavior, which is great for users who commute or travel.
4. WireGuard Protocol for Speed + Battery Efficiency: Surfshark supports WireGuard on iOS, giving you a strong balance of speed, security, and battery preservation. It performed exceptionally well during streaming, video calls, and downloads over both LTE and 5G.
5. Private Browsing Without the Clutter
The iOS app is intuitive and aligns with Apple’s minimalist design principles. It includes:
- Tap-to-connect
- Dark mode
- Quick server switching
- Siri Shortcuts integration for hands-free control
Pros:
- Unlimited device support (perfect for multi-iOS households)
- CleanWeb 2.0 blocks ads and malicious domains
- Smart automation features via Smart Rules
- Fast, battery-efficient WireGuard protocol
- Seamless iOS app with Apple-native feel
Cons:
- Safari ad blocking is less consistent than Chrome
- Some features (e.g., GPS spoofing) not supported on iOS
- Needs occasional manual reconnect after sleep mode
Surfshark Plans:
Free Trial
- 7-day free trial via App Store (mobile only)
Premium Plan
- 3,200+ servers in 100+ countries
- CleanWeb, Smart Rules, unlimited bandwidth
- Works with Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and more
- Starts at $2.19/month (2-year plan)
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Payment Methods:
- Accepted: Apple Pay, credit cards, Google Pay, crypto
- Billing Options: Monthly, 12-month, or 24-month plans
Best For:
- iPhone users who want feature-rich privacy tools
- Families or couples sharing one VPN account
- People who want to block ads across all apps, not just browsers
Final Word:
Surfshark VPN is ideal for iPhone users who want a powerful privacy solution that doesn’t feel technical or bloated. It delivers speed, clean UI, unlimited devices, and smart automation, all in a sleek, App Store-approved package. If you’re looking for premium protection that scales with your lifestyle, Surfshark is a top contender.
3. Why NordVPN Is a Premium VPN for iPhone in 2025
NordVPN stands out as one of the most powerful and privacy-focused VPNs for iPhone users in 2025. It combines cutting-edge performance, premium security features, and smooth iOS integration, making it an excellent choice for those who want speed, streaming access, and granular privacy control in one app.
Why We Recommend NordVPN for iPhone:
1. Ultra-Fast with NordLynx Protocol: NordVPN’s proprietary NordLynx protocol is one of the fastest VPN technologies available on iOS. Whether you’re streaming Netflix, attending Zoom calls, or downloading large files over 5G, NordVPN keeps speeds high and latency low.
2. Threat Protection Lite: The iOS app includes Threat Protection Lite, which blocks access to malicious websites and phishing links. While it doesn’t remove ads on iOS like the desktop version, it adds real-time filtering for safer browsing across Safari and Chrome.
3. Meshnet for Device Linking: NordVPN’s Meshnet allows you to securely connect your iPhone to your other devices, Windows, Mac, PC, or even other iPhones, over encrypted tunnels. It’s perfect for secure file transfers, private gaming, or remote access without a third-party cloud.
4. iOS-Optimized App Design
The app is fast, clean, and tailored to iOS:
- Dark mode support
- Auto-connect on untrusted Wi-Fi
- Siri Shortcuts for voice activation
- Quick access widgets on the home screen
You also get full compatibility with Always-On VPN and iOS’s native Kill Switch system.
5. Streaming & Geo-Unblocking: NordVPN easily unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and YouTube, with optimized servers for streaming content in multiple countries. Its obfuscated servers help bypass firewalls and content restrictions when traveling abroad.
Pros:
- Blazing-fast performance with NordLynx
- Real-time phishing and malware site blocking
- Fully compatible with iOS security features
- Ideal for privacy, work, and high-bandwidth use
- Unique tools like Meshnet and Siri integration
Cons:
- Threat Protection Lite does not block ads on iOS
- Limited to 6 simultaneous devices per account
- More features than some casual users need
NordVPN Plans:
Free Trial
- No standalone free plan, but all plans include a 30-day refund guarantee
Standard Plan
- VPN access with NordLynx, OpenVPN, and full server access
- Includes Meshnet, Threat Protection Lite, and streaming optimization
- Starts at $3.39/month (2-year plan)
Plus/Complete Plans
Adds NordPass (password manager) and NordLocker (cloud encryption)
Refund Policy
30-day full refund for new subscribers
Payment & Refunds:
- Accepted: Apple Pay, credit cards, PayPal, crypto
- Billing Options: Monthly, annual, or 2-year subscriptions
Best For:
- iPhone users seeking high-performance and security
- Remote workers, business travelers, and digital nomads
- Privacy-conscious users who want extra control and encryption
Final Word:
NordVPN is the go-to option for iPhone users who want premium-level privacy, speed, and features. With strong iOS support, excellent streaming capability, and advanced extras like Meshnet and real-time filtering, it’s built for those who take security and performance seriously without sacrificing usability.
How to Choose the Right VPN for iPhone
Choosing a VPN for iPhone in 2025 means balancing Apple-native security, App Store transparency, and mobile-specific performance. iPhones handle VPNs differently than desktops, so the right app must integrate with iOS’s core systems without draining your battery or interfering with your everyday apps.
Here’s what to look for:
1. iOS Compatibility & System Integration
Not all VPNs are created equal on iOS. The best VPNs for iPhone offer:
- iOS 13+ support with ARM64 optimization
Apps should be fast, crash-free, and fully compatible with modern iPhones and iPads. - Always-On VPN & Kill Switch
These Apple-native settings maintain VPN protection 24/7, especially on mobile data. - App Store privacy labels
Ensure the VPN doesn’t collect sensitive user data or use third-party trackers. - Siri Shortcuts, Widgets, and Dark Mode
Enhances convenience and usability while staying lightweight.
2. Encryption & Privacy Protection
Even on a secure OS like iOS, traffic is vulnerable on open networks. A strong VPN should offer:
- AES-256 encryption with IKEv2 or WireGuard
These are the most battery-friendly and stable protocols on iPhone. - Independently audited no-logs policy
Your VPN should never store browsing data, IP logs, or usage history. - DNS & IPv6 leak protection
Protects against accidental data exposure, especially on dual-stack mobile networks. - Obfuscated servers
Useful for bypassing content blocks or censorship, particularly abroad or on public networks.
3. iPhone-Specific Features
Advanced VPNs go beyond simple encryption and deliver Apple-optimized utilities:
- Smart Auto-Connect on Wi-Fi or mobile data
Automatically secures untrusted networks without manual switching. - Trusted Networks / Whitelist support
Keep your VPN off at home but auto-connect on public hotspots. - In-app privacy tools
DNS-level ad blocking, tracker prevention, and breach alert integration elevate security. - Low resource usage
VPNs should work quietly in the background with minimal battery drain or performance impact.
4. Mobile UX & App Quality
iPhone users expect a clean, fast, and frictionless interface. Prioritize VPNs that offer:
- One-tap connection + Smart Location suggestions
No need to manually pick servers unless you want to. - Minimal permissions and lightweight installation
Top VPNs don’t ask for unnecessary device access or push hidden trackers. - Zero ads and no cluttered upsells
Paid VPN apps should feel native, polished, and respectful of user experience.
Quick Match by Use Case
| User Type | Best Option | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Simple, secure daily use | TotalVPN | Fast, lightweight, with Always-On support and low battery usage. Great for everyday users. |
| Privacy-first Apple user | Surfshark VPN | CleanWeb, auto-connect, unlimited devices, and strong ad/tracker blocking across apps. |
| Power user or traveler | NordVPN | Fastest performance with NordLynx, Meshnet, and advanced control over security features. |
How We Tested These iPhone VPNs
To give you accurate, real-world recommendations, we conducted a structured multi-week test of TotalVPN, Surfshark VPN, and NordVPN on iPhones running the latest versions of iOS. We focused on speed, streaming performance, battery efficiency, privacy features, and native iOS integration.
Test Setup
Devices Tested:
- iPhone 13 (iOS 17.4)
- iPhone SE (2022) running iOS 16.7
Networks Used:
- 100 Mbps home Wi-Fi
- 5G and LTE mobile networks (Verizon & Orange)
- Public Wi-Fi in cafés, trains, and airports
Use Case Scenarios:
- Netflix, YouTube, and Disney+ streaming
- Safari/Chrome browsing (with and without CleanWeb or Threat Protection)
- FaceTime, WhatsApp, and Zoom video calls
- App Store access using VPN for region spoofing
- Use with Always-On VPN + native iOS Kill Switch enabled
- Background usage over 6–8 hour periods
Metrics Evaluated
| Category | Metric | TotalVPN | Surfshark VPN | NordVPN |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Connection Speed | Avg. DL/UL on Wi-Fi & mobile (Mbps) | 85 / 80 | 88 / 81 | 91 / 86 |
| Streaming Access | Netflix, iPlayer, Disney+, Prime Video | ✅ All unlocked | ✅ All unlocked | ✅ All unlocked |
| Battery Usage | Drain per 1 hour of mixed app usage | 4.9% | 6.1% | 7.0% |
| App Size | Total install size on iPhone | ~30MB | ~42MB | ~53MB |
| iOS Integration | Always-On VPN + Kill Switch | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Split Tunneling | App-based exclusions (iOS limitation) | ❌ Not available | ❌ Not available | ❌ Not available |
| Ad/Tracker Blocking | In-app or DNS-based blocking | Basic blocker | CleanWeb 2.0 | Threat Protection Lite |
| Siri & Widgets | Siri Shortcuts, tap-to-connect widgets | ✅ Quick Connect only | ✅ Siri + widget tiles | ✅ Siri + full widgets |
| App Usability | UI/UX rating (1–10) | 9.1 | 9.3 | 8.7 |
| Stability | Reconnect after sleep, airplane mode, app switch | ✅ Stable | ✅ Stable | ✅ Stable |
Key Takeaways
- TotalVPN offers the best battery performance and simplified iOS integration, with a clean UI and stable speeds. It’s perfect for users who want a lightweight, no-fuss VPN that works with iOS defaults like Always-On VPN.
- Surfshark VPN leads in privacy and customization, offering CleanWeb, Siri Shortcuts, and smart auto-connect options. It’s a strong pick for those who want flexible automation and ad blocking in a modern app.
- NordVPN is the most powerful and performance-driven of the three, ideal for streamers, travelers, and privacy pros. While slightly heavier on resources, it delivers the fastest speeds and elite features like Meshnet and obfuscated servers.
Final Verdict
Whether you’re streaming on the go, checking email at a coffee shop, or just browsing in Safari, your iPhone deserves the same level of VPN protection as your computer.
- Want easy privacy with extras like ad blocking? Choose Total VPN
- Protecting your entire Apple ecosystem? Go with Surfshark VPN
- Need fast, secure access to global content? Pick NordVPN
All three options work beautifully on iOS. But Total VPN offers the best everyday value for users who want fast, reliable, and secure mobile protection in one app.
Only VPNs that combined strong encryption, seamless usability, and minimal battery impact made our final recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need a VPN on iPhone in 2025?
Yes. A VPN adds essential layers of privacy by encrypting your internet traffic, hiding your IP address, and protecting you on public Wi-Fi, especially in apps and when traveling.
What’s the best iPhone VPN for streaming?
NordVPN is your best pick. It uses SmartPlay and NordLynx to unblock Netflix, Hulu, and other services without buffering.
Can I use the same VPN on my iPad or Mac?
Yes. Total VPN covers 3 devices. Surfshark supports an unlimited number of devices, while NordVPN supports up to 6; both are great options for Apple users.
Will a VPN slow down my iPhone?
Not if you choose the right one. Total VPN, Surfshark, and NordVPN are optimized for iOS and have minimal impact on speed or battery.
Which VPN offers the best built-in privacy tools?
Surfshark offers CleanWeb, breach alerts, and GPS spoofing. Total VPN includes ad blocking and antivirus. NordVPN offers threat protection and Meshnet.
Do I need to jailbreak my iPhone to use a VPN? No. All recommended VPNs work perfectly on standard iPhones, no jailbreak needed.