After testing over 40 VPNs, I found a handful of free services that are actually safe and work reliably on Android phones, tablets, and Android TV. These options offer strong encryption, no-logs policies, and user-friendly apps, but some limitations still apply. Proton VPN is the best free VPN for Android. Unlike most free services, it has no data caps, offers solid speeds, and is backed by a strict no-logs policy. It’s a secure, trustworthy choice if you want free protection without compromising your privacy. Try Proton VPN for Android Editor’s Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. That said, our detailed reviews follow a strict methodology that examines all relevant performance factors to help you arrive at your own informed conclusion.
Quick Guide: Best Free VPNs for Android in 2025
Quick Comparison Table: Free Android VPN Features
The Best Free VPNs for Android (Tested in 2025)
1. Proton VPN — Unlimited Free Data for Safe Android Browsing
Key Features: Proton VPN is one of the only free VPNs for Android that offers unlimited data with no speed throttling. In my tests, I streamed YouTube for hours without hitting caps or experiencing connection drops. The app auto-connects to the nearest free server for stable performance — but you don’t get to choose your server, which can make accessing specific locations tricky.
Proton VPN also includes essential security features like military-grade encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection, all backed by a strict no-logs policy that’s been independently audited. Its Swiss jurisdiction adds another layer of privacy. The only major limitation is the lack of P2P support, but this is understandable given the unlimited data use. Upgrading to Proton VPN’s paid plan unlocks servers in 117 countries, streaming and torrenting support, and advanced features like Secure Core (multi-hop routing) and NetShield ad and malware blocking. You can also connect 10 devices at once and enjoy priority speeds — making it a solid step up for users who need more than basic protection.
2. hide.me — Privacy-Focused Free VPN With Multiple Server Options
Key Features: hide.me is a privacy-conscious free VPN for Android, offering 8 free server locations — more than most freemium services. During tests, connections were fast enough for smooth browsing and streaming, though access to Netflix and other major streaming sites was blocked. The free plan includes advanced tools like split tunneling, Stealth Guard, custom DNS, and auto-connect on unsecured WiFi networks. The app supports WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols, and leak tests confirmed that my IP and DNS information stayed protected. However, you’re limited to one device connection, and P2P traffic is not supported on the free tier.
Upgrading to hide.me’s premium plan unlocks unlimited bandwidth, access to 56 server locations, and support for 10 simultaneous connections. It also enables streaming and torrenting, IP rotation, fixed IPs, and stronger connection speeds — it’s a good choice for users who want to stick with a privacy-first provider.
3. Hotspot Shield — Fast and Secure With Proprietary Hydra Protocol
Key Features: Hotspot Shield’s free Android VPN stands out for its Hydra protocol, which delivers faster speeds and improved connection stability — even on restrictive networks. The Hydra protocol also helps bypass restrictions on networks like school or public WiFi by disguising VPN traffic as regular web traffic.
The app includes several premium-grade features at no cost, including military-grade encryption, DNS and IP leak protection, and a built-in kill switch. You also get Auto-Protect, which automatically activates the VPN when you join public WiFi. Server access is limited to three countries, but connection times were consistently quick and reliable in my testing. Upgrading to Hotspot Shield Premium removes ads and unlocks over 80 server locations, streaming and torrenting support, and unlimited simultaneous device connections. You’ll also gain access to Smart Mode, virtual server locations, a password manager, and priority customer support.
4. TunnelBear — Largest Free Server Network for Android
Key Features: TunnelBear stands out by giving free users access to its full server network. This wide coverage helped me find nearby servers to avoid slowdowns — an advantage over services that restrict server access. However, the free plan has a 2GB monthly data cap unless you’re in a country with internet restrictions, where TunnelBear boosts your allowance to 10GB/month. The Android app is beginner-friendly, and you get access to premium features like GhostBear obfuscation and SplitBear split tunneling. TunnelBear also offers AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and private DNS. Upgrading to a paid plan removes the data cap and unlocks support for faster speeds and priority customer support. You also retain access to all server locations and advanced features. TunnelBear’s premium plan is a simple but capable VPN for users who want full protection across multiple Android devices.
Best Paid VPN for Android in 2025
ExpressVPN — Premium Protection for Android With Risk-Free Trial
Key Features: You can try ExpressVPN risk-free with a 7-day free trial — simply install the app from the Google Play Store and use ExpressVPN on any device for a full week at no cost. It also offers a 30*-day money-back guarantee on all devices, giving you over a month to test its premium features. ExpressVPN’s Android app is sleek and beginner-friendly, with one-tap connections, a kill switch, and customizable shortcuts. I had no issues switching between WiFi and mobile data, and the Lightway protocol kept speeds fast and consistent — even on long-distance servers. ExpressVPN uses military-grade encryption, a verified no-logs policy, and passed all IP and DNS leak tests during my review. It’s one of the best VPNs in 2025, ideal for secure browsing, HD streaming, and using public WiFi on any Android device. Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. That said, our detailed reviews follow a strict methodology that examines all relevant performance factors to help you arrive at your own informed conclusion.
Free VPNs vs Freemium VPNs — Only One Is Truly Safe
Most free Android VPNs put your privacy at serious risk. Many free apps on the Play Store harvest personal data, inject ads, or even install malware — all under the guise of offering protection. Here are the biggest dangers of 100% free VPNs:
Data harvesting: Some VPNs collect your browsing habits, location, and app usage to sell to third parties. Malware & trackers: Free VPNs apps have been found with tracking libraries and even trojans. Weak or fake security: Many lack basic protections like encryption or DNS leak prevention. Shady ownership: Some popular free VPNs are tied to companies in countries with poor privacy laws, despite claiming otherwise.
In contrast, freemium VPNs like Proton VPN or hide.me offer limited free plans supported by optional premium upgrades. These services are far more transparent, regularly audited, and don’t rely on exploiting user data to make money. Simply put, freemium VPNs are the only trustworthy option to protect your Android device for free.
Android VPNs to Avoid
During testing, I identified several dangerous free VPNs that put Android users at risk. Here are some popular options to avoid:
How I Tested and Ranked the Best Free VPNs for Android
To ensure your privacy and safety, I rigorously tested dozens of free VPNs on Android devices. My goal was to identify services that offer strong security, reliable performance, and transparent privacy practices — without compromising your data.
TouchVPN
Contains multiple trackers and collects user data to sell to third parties — completely undermining your privacy.
Flash VPN
Claimed to offer “military-grade” encryption, but researchers found it had no real encryption at all and was flagged for malware.
Device Compatibility — I tested each VPN on Android phones, tablets, and Android TV, across versions 6.0 to 14, to confirm full functionality. Security Testing — Every app was checked for IP, WebRTC, and DNS leaks, as well as signs of malware or embedded trackers. Speed & Reliability — I ran multiple speed tests at different times of day to evaluate real-world performance and server stability under load. App Permissions — I reviewed requested permissions to ensure each VPN only accessed what’s necessary for safe operation. Privacy & Logging Policies — I examined each provider’s privacy policy, ownership background, and no-logs claims to rule out services that monetize user data.
Quick Guide: How to Set Up a Free VPN on Android in 3 Easy Steps
Get the Best Free VPN for Android
Free Android VPNs often come with serious risks — many log your data, inject ads, or leave you vulnerable to leaks and malware. Even the safest options have trade-offs like limited servers, reduced speeds, or missing features. While freemium VPNs offer basic protection for light use, they’re rarely suitable for torrenting, gaming, or unblocking geo-restricted content. If you want full security, fast speeds, and reliable performance across all Android devices, we recommend ExpressVPN. It offers unlimited bandwidth, strong privacy features, and native support for phones, tablets, and Android TV. You can try ExpressVPN completely risk-free with its 30*-day money-back guarantee. *Please note that ExpressVPN’s generous money-back guarantee applies to first-time customers only.
The Best Premium VPNs for Android
Editor’s Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. That said, our detailed reviews follow a strict methodology that examines all relevant performance factors to help you arrive at your own informed conclusion.
