5 Best Free VPNs for Android in 2025: Fast, Trusted, & Safe

Many free Android VPN apps either bombard you with ads, drain your battery, or significantly slow down your connection. Others ask for invasive permissions, log your data, or fail to protect you when using your Android on public WiFi.

We tested 40+ free VPNs to find ones that reliably work on Android phones, tablets, and TVs. The best ones have native Android apps, fast speeds, don’t require unnecessary permissions, and work seamlessly with popular apps like Netflix and YouTube. Most didn't make our list because they lacked one or more of these benefits.

Still, free VPNs come with trade-offs, such as limited server options, buffering when streaming, and data caps. For the best possible experience, with no interruptions or privacy concerns, a premium Android VPN is the better choice — I added one to the list. But if you're sticking with free, we’ve listed the best free Android VPNs you can get from the Play Store.

Best Free VPNs for Android — Full Analysis (Updated 2025)

1. ExpressVPN — Fast Speeds for a Seamless Online Experience on Android

Editor’s Choice Editor’s Choice Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Tested July 2025

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

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Try ExpressVPN >

www.expressvpn.com

ExpressVPN is hands down the fastest paid Android VPN we've tested and is very battery efficient, thanks to its Lightway protocol. The VPN’s proprietary protocol is engineered to be quick (using less code) without compromising your security. Our speed decreased by only 11%, from 254.13Mbps when testing nearby servers. This allowed us to play PUBG Mobile and Crossy Road without added lag. Lightway also reconnects quickly when switching between WiFi and mobile data, great for when you're on the move.

We could also watch TikTok videos and stream Netflix without added buffering

The Android app has an intuitive interface that makes essential features easy to access. I especially like how the home screen displays your most frequently used locations, along with a search bar that allows you to find your preferred server quickly. ExpressVPN even has a native Android TV app. With its ease of use and worldwide server network, it's possible to access popular streaming platforms, such as Netflix US, safely and stream shows on your Android device in just a few clicks.

ExpressVPN’s Threat Manager feature helps your Android data stay safe by blocking access to malicious sites, preventing trackers from collecting personal data, and reducing intrusive ads. I’ve found this feature particularly useful when I’m on the go and using unsecured networks. It’s easy to toggle on under Settings, and once it’s on, Android devices are more secure and private with minimal impact on performance.

Although it's not free, ExpressVPN offers a 7-day free trial on Android. It also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee*, so you can try it risk-free and get a full refund if you're not satisfied. I tested the refund process myself by canceling via 24/7 live chat and received my money back within just 3 days — no hassle at all.

Useful Features

• Robust security. The Android app includes a kill switch (Network Lock) that automatically disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops. This keeps your data secure and prevents any data exposure when the VPN is inactive.
• Privacy protection. TrustedServer technology (utilizing RAM-only servers) erases data with every reboot, providing an additional layer of privacy for your Android devices. ExpressVPN also follows an audited and proven no-logs policy.
• Automatic obfuscation. ExpressVPN’s automatic obfuscation technology conceals the fact that you’re using a VPN, which is particularly useful on restrictive networks, such as those found at work and school.
• Dark Mode. Dark Mode reduces eye strain during nighttime usage and helps preserve battery life, especially on Android devices with OLED screens.

2. Proton VPN — 100% Free VPN with No Data Caps for Unlimited Browsing on Your Android

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try Proton VPN >

protonvpn.com

Unlike many free VPNs that impose data caps, Proton VPN’s free Android app offers unlimited data, making it perfect for extended browsing and streaming. In our tests, we streamed HD YouTube videos for over 4 hours without running out of data. The Android app also automatically selects the fastest available server when clicking Quick Connect, saving you time from manually searching for the right server.

We didn't encounter any slowdowns even when streaming in HD

You get access to servers in 6 locations, including the Netherlands, Japan, and the US, with the free version of Proton VPN. Although you can't manually select your location, the app automatically connects you to the nearest server for optimal performance. During tests, I got connected to the Netherlands server and played Star Wars KOTOR on my Galaxy A9 without any issues.

With Proton VPN, your online privacy is well protected. Its apps are open-source, independently audited, and backed by a no-logs policy. This means that it doesn't collect any data on your online activity, keeping you anonymous online while using your Android. IP/DNS leak protection also safeguards you against accidental data exposure.

I was disappointed that you require an email address to sign up and that the VPN is only compatible with one device. However, even with the free plan, you can connect Proton VPN to your router and use it on all your WiFi-connected devices.

Useful Features

• NetShield ad blocker. Proton VPN’s NetShield feature blocks harmful websites and intrusive ads on your Android device, resulting in faster page load times and a cleaner, smoother browsing experience.
• Alternative routing. This feature helps you bypass network restrictions on Android by automatically finding alternative routes to maintain a stable connection, even in restricted or throttled environments.
• Hardware acceleration. Proton VPN optimizes data processing on your Android device, reducing battery drain while maintaining strong VPN performance. This provides more extended usage without compromising on security or speed.

3. Avira Phantom VPN — Unlimited Connections to Protect All Your Android (& Other) Devices

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome More

Try Avira Phantom VPN >

www.avira.com

Avira sets itself apart by offering unlimited simultaneous connections. This means you can use it to secure as many of your Android and non-Android devices as needed. In our tests, we connected a Samsung S23, a Realme X2 Pro, and various desktops and laptops to a server in San Francisco. Even while streaming YouTube videos simultaneously on all these devices, our connections remained stable throughout.

There are more than a dozen free server locations in the US on its free mobile app

The best part about Avira's free Android app is that you don't even need to sign up to use the service. Simply download the app, pick a server, and enable the VPN connection with a single tap. No account creation or personal info is needed to start securing your Android traffic.

The main issue with Avira is its restrictive 500MB of monthly data on the free plan. However, you can increase your monthly limit to 1GB by creating an account. Still, this tight cap means you'll struggle to do much heavy-duty streaming or downloading before hitting the limit. Additionally, the lack of live chat support on the free plan may be inconvenient if you encounter issues.

Useful Features

• Battery optimization. This feature reduces power consumption by intelligently managing the VPN connection when your screen is off, minimizing battery drain while maintaining security.
• URL Tracker Blocking. Stops websites from tracking your online activities, preventing them from collecting personal data and creating targeted advertising profiles based on your browsing habits.
• Basic security. It protects your Android device with its AES 256-bit encryption and leak protection. The free plan doesn’t offer a kill switch, though, which can leave you unprotected if your connection drops.

4. hide.me — Strong Security to Keep Your Android Device Safe

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try hide.me VPN >

www.hide.me

hide.me’s Android app lets you tailor your connection to your needs with options like IKEv2, OpenVPN, WireGuard, and SSTP. It also offers all the essential security features, including AES 256-bit encryption and leak protection. During tests, we could easily switch protocols and found that WireGuard gave us the best speeds.

Its Auto Connect feature automatically activates the VPN when you connect to an unknown network, so your Android device remains protected even if you forget to enable the VPN manually. Even with the free plan, you’ll also gain access to more advanced settings, such as fully configurable split tunneling.

Choose Automatic if you're unsure of which protocol to use

Like Proton VPN, you can't manually select a preferred server location. The Android app automatically connects you to the optimal server based on your current whereabouts. However, the free plan provides access to servers in 8 locations, which is more than most free VPNs.

Useful Features

• 24/7 support. Many VPNs don’t offer support to their free customers. However, with hide.me, 24/7 live chat support is available even for free users. No matter where you are in the world, it’s easy to get help using hide.me on your Android.
• Privacy-friendly. hide.me is based in Malaysia, which sits outside the 5/9/14 Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance. This means the service is not legally obligated to store any user data. It also strictly adheres to a no-logs policy.
• Stealth Guard. Prevents selected apps or your entire internet connection from working unless the VPN is active. It helps prevent accidental IP leaks, so that your real identity and location are never exposed if the VPN connection is disrupted.

5. Hotspot Shield — Hydra Protocol for Fast Speeds on Your Android Even Over Long Distances

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try Hotspot Shield >

www.hotspotshield.com

Hotspot Shield’s Hydra protocol delivers impressive speeds, making it an excellent option for uninterrupted browsing on Android. It optimizes data routing to minimize congestion for a smooth online experience. Even when testing servers far away in Australia, our average download speed dropped by only 16% from a base connection of 221Mbps.

Hydra offers fast speeds without compromising security

Hotspot Shield also includes a built-in malware blocker that works in the background to protect your Android device from dangerous websites. The free tier blocks malware, while paid users get even more extensive protections against phishing and scams.

The main tradeoff with Hotspot Shield's free Android app is that it's ad-supported. The service's privacy policy does note that it collects some user information, like your IP address, in order to serve those ads. However, it claims not to log any details about your actual browsing activity.

Useful Features

• Unlimited data. Hotspot Shield's free Android app offers unlimited data, but you need to keep watching ads to maintain your connected time. For every 30-second advertisement you view, you're rewarded with an additional 15 minutes of VPN usage.

Quick Comparison Table: Best Free Android VPN Features

The table below compares essential features of my recommended free VPNs for Android devices. I've included details about data limits, speeds, server availability, and Android-specific capabilities to help you choose the best option for your needs.

Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

Our Methodology for Testing Free VPNs for Android

We first focused on testing essential security features that free Android VPNs often skimp on. This included checking for IP and DNS leaks, verifying encryption standards, and confirming each VPN's privacy policy matched their actual data collection practices. We also tested their ability to work reliably to keep our data safe on public WiFi networks. Additionally, evaluated speeds to confirm a smooth and fast browsing or streaming experience on Android.

Our team measured each VPN's impact on battery life and data usage, as these are crucial factors when using a mobile device. Special attention was paid to analyzing hidden trackers and unnecessary permissions that could compromise user privacy.

Expert Tip: Most Free VPNs for Android Aren't Safe

Many free VPNs on the Google Play Store can put your Android device and personal data at risk. That's why I thoroughly tested each VPN on this list to confirm they follow strict security practices and won't compromise your privacy. While free VPNs have limitations, the ones I've recommended are safe alternatives to the many questionable options available.

Here are the main risks of using untrusted free Android VPNs:

• Data collection and selling. Many free VPNs generate revenue by collecting your personal information, browsing history, and app usage data to sell to advertisers. Some even install hidden trackers on your Android to monitor your activities even when the VPN is off. Some are based in China or Hong Kong, where local laws often require the logging of user data.
• Battery drain and device slowdown. Some free VPNs use inefficient protocols that can quickly drain your Android's battery. Others run background processes that slow down your device. The VPNs I recommend utilize modern protocols, such as WireGuard, that minimize battery consumption.
• Malware and malicious code. Some free Android VPNs contain malware or secretly turn your device into a proxy for other users. This can expose you to cybercriminals and make you vulnerable to attacks.

Free Android VPNs to Avoid

During our tests, we found some free Android VPNs that are unsafe to use and should be avoided at all costs. The dangers associated with these sketchy free VPNs range from exposing your personal data to putting you at risk of viruses and malware.

• Hola VPN. Uses users’ devices as endpoints, potentially exposing your IP for illegal activities.
• Betternet VPN. It keeps logs of your data. Plus, its Android app was riddled with malware back in 2016.
• CrossVPN. This free VPN has been known to download malware and spyware onto its users’ devices.
• Psiphon. Logs browsing history and lacks DNS leak protection and a kill switch.

FAQs on Free VPNs for Android

Can I use a free VPN on my Android TV?

Most of the free VPNs on this list have apps for Android TV that you can easily install from the Play Store. However, there are a few key limitations to be aware of. Many free VPNs have strict data limits, which can be problematic for streaming. For example, streaming content in 1080p typically consumes around 1.5GB of data per hour.

Plus, free VPNs generally support only a limited number of streaming platforms. While the options on this list work with a few sites, their reliability can be inconsistent. If you're planning to stream frequently on Android TV, it's worth considering a budget-friendly premium VPN. With a paid VPN, you’ll get unlimited data, better streaming performance, and faster speeds overall.

Is there a free Android VPN that doesn't require registration?

A few free Android VPNs on this list don’t require registration or personal details. While the no-signup feature enhances privacy, it doesn’t eliminate common drawbacks of free VPNs, such as limited server options, slower speeds, and data caps. Consider your needs to determine if a no-signup free VPN or a paid option is the better choice.

Will a free Android VPN work with Netflix?

Some free VPNs, like Proton VPN, work well with Netflix. However, most free Android VPNs cause buffering due to limited server networks. The 100% free options on this list work with the platform, but they either have low data caps or limited server networks. This means they might limit how effortlessly you can stream Netflix in HD from anywhere.

For the best Netflix streaming experience on Android, your best bet is to use a reputable, low-cost premium VPN. Many of these paid services also provide money-back guarantees, allowing you to test them risk-free.

Which free Android VPN allows torrenting?

There are a few good free VPNs that allow torrenting. hide.me offers fast speeds and customized settings for secure torrenting. The problem with most free VPNs is that they typically don’t provide enough data for torrenting; however, most of the ones shortlisted offer unlimited data.

Which free Android VPN works best for China, India, and the UAE?

For countries with strict internet censorship (like China, India, and the UAE), you should choose a VPN that offers obfuscation. This disguises your VPN traffic as regular internet traffic, helping you bypass VPN blocks and strict firewalls. Our top recommended Android VPN isn’t entirely free, but it offers automatic obfuscation features that kick in when the app detects a restrictive network environment. This helps it work undetected in China and the UAE.

The truth is that very few free Android VPNs work completely reliably on restrictive networks, like those in China, India, and the UAE. They don’t usually have the resources to keep up with the constantly evolving technological landscape in these countries. Even the best premium VPNs can struggle in China from time to time. If you need a reliable VPN that can work in these countries, you’re better off investing in our #1 VPN choice.

VPN use is restricted in China and similar countries, with only government-approved services permitted. While fines for tourists are rare, proceed with caution. We don’t encourage breaking any laws with a VPN.

What is the fastest free VPN for Android?

All free Android VPNs on this list offer decent speeds. However, they don't provide the same level of performance as top premium VPNs. This is because free VPNs often have limited server networks that can become crowded, resulting in slower speeds. For optimal performance without slowdowns, consider a premium VPN, such as ExpressVPN, which offers a 7-day free trial.

Get the Best Free VPN for Android

Free VPNs for Android are a good starting point for protecting your data. Still, they often come with limitations, such as slower speeds, data caps, and limited server options, which can impact your overall experience. While the free VPNs on this list have been tested for reliability, they may not offer the best performance for activities like streaming and torrenting.

A premium VPN, such as ExpressVPN, remains a better option for a more consistent and secure experience, especially for users with heavy data needs. It also offers fast speeds, strong security features, and an extensive server network.