Best VPN for iPhone 2026: Boost Your Privacy on the Go
A virtual private network (VPN) can enhance privacy on an iPhone by encrypting internet traffic and hiding the user's IP address, which helps prevent tracking by ISPs and enables access to region-locked streaming content. CNET recommends Surfshark as the best overall iPhone VPN due to its strong privacy features, split tunneling, and user-friendly app, though it notes alternatives like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Proton VPN for specific needs. Each recommended service offers unique advantages, including speed, ease of use, and jurisdictional privacy benefits.
- ▪Surfshark is CNET's top pick for the best overall iPhone VPN due to its split tunneling, unlimited device connections, and user-friendly iOS app.
- ▪ExpressVPN is recommended for beginners because of its simple interface, strong privacy protections, and fast, reliable performance across platforms.
- ▪NordVPN is highlighted as the fastest iPhone VPN, with only a 3% speed loss in testing, making it ideal for streaming, gaming, and video calls.
- ▪Proton VPN is noted for its versatility and transparency, offering strong security features and privacy-friendly jurisdiction in Switzerland.
- ▪All recommended VPNs support essential features like kill switches, DNS leak protection, and access to streaming services, but vary in pricing and jurisdiction.
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A virtual private network enhances your privacy on your iPhone by encrypting your internet traffic and masking your IP address. This means that your ISP or mobile carrier can't see what you do online, and you can unblock region-restricted streaming content, like foreign Netflix libraries or global Amazon Prime Video content. If your mobile carrier throttles video streaming on a cellular connection, you may even experience faster speeds and therefore better streaming video quality on your phone using a VPN. Surfshark is our favorite iPhone VPN, thanks in large part to its split tunneling capabilities. Our Picks Best overall VPN for iPhone Surfshark See at Surfshark 8.6/10 CNET Score CNET Score CNET provides expert, unbiased reviews of products and services.
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