The best VPN services for iPad: Expert tested and reviewed

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If you're looking for an excellent virtual private network (VPN) for your iPad, or you want to explore your options before picking up a new tablet during holiday Apple sales, we've completed the legwork for you.

VPNs are valuable tools for maintaining online security and privacy. These services layer encryption on top of your web requests and online communication, making it very difficult to track your activities. Furthermore, VPNs can be used to mask your IP address and change what appears to be your location.

Also: The best travel VPNs

The best VPNs for Apple's iPad tablet range provide users with excellent security, strong encryption, rapid speeds, and an extensive server network. We've tested every top VPN on the market, and based on our extensive personal experience, research, and customer reviews, have found the best iPad VPNs available.

What is the best iPad VPN right now?

Based on extensive testing, our pick for the best VPN for iPad is NordVPN. NordVPN remains a firm favorite with the ZDNET team, as it provides users with strong and reliable connections, robust security, and one of the largest server networks currently available through VPN providers. Read on for the rest of our picks for the best iPad VPNs right now.

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All Countries and servers Usability Speed and performance Security Price

The best VPN for iPad in 2024

NordVPN is our top pick for the best iPad VPN right now. We consider this VPN one of the best available. During our regular speed tests, NordVPN was one of the best services, providing minimal speed loss. The company also offers servers in over 110 locations, giving users plenty of country options.

NordVPN provides 10 simultaneous connections to each subscriber, although we would like this to become unlimited eventually to bring this VPN provider in line with many competitors.

We've tested NordVPN for years and have always been impressed with its connectivity and overall performance. Many customers applaud NordVPN's customer service and like its streaming performance.

Review: NordVPN

NordVPN is compatible with iPadOS 15.0 or later and runs on all the most popular platforms, including Mac and Windows.

Prices start at $3.59/month on a two-year plan. This is the best deal currently on offer, as it also offers customers three months of free access added to the length of the contract. If you would prefer to start on a 12-month plan, subscriptions begin at $4.59/month (three months free). Premium plans include features such as tracker blockers, cloud storage, and a password manager.

NordVPN features: Simultaneous connections: 10 | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, tvOS, routers | Countries: 111 | Kill switch: Yes | Logging: Email address and billing information only | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days, Android | Apple App Store rating: 4.7

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ExpressVPN is our favorite iPad option if speed is at the top of your priority list. ZDNET frequently conducts speed and stability tests on VPNs, and ExpressVPN is one of the fastest VPNs available, often performing better than its competitors in relation to speed loss. In addition, ExpressVPN has numerous servers available in over 100 countries and performs well when streaming.

Review: ExpressVPN

We've used ExpressVPN for years and have found it to be a speedy, reliable service with a great server network. We also like the VPN's apps as they are beginner-friendly and very easy to use -- although you may have to dig around if you want to change the VPN's settings.

ExpressVPN is compatible with iPadOS 15.0 or later. Customer reviews indicate that while many consider it expensive, the service is fast, secure, and backed by a great customer support team.

ExpressVPN doesn't currently offer a two-year subscription, but you can opt for a 12-month plan for $6.67/month, with three months of free access and a year of Backblaze cloud backup. Other plans include a six-month subscription for $9.99/month or one month of access for $12.95.

ExpressVPN features: Simultaneous connections: 8 | Kill switch: Yes | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Linux, Fire TV, Android TV, tvOS, routers | Countries: 105 | Logging: No browsing logs, some connection logs | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days, Android and iOS | Apple App Store rating: 4.7

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Surfshark is an uncomplicated, very affordable VPN that has earned its place among ZDNET's top iPad VPN picks. This VPN is excellent for iPad users because of its user-friendly app, painless setup process, and attractive user interface.

We've enjoyed using Surfshark for years. For the price point, the speeds available and speed loss percentages are reasonable, and we've had no issues during testing when connecting to standard servers (and virtual servers) in the countries within the Surfshark network. However, initial connections can be a tad slow.

Many customers say that this VPN is affordable and that using it is simple and beginner-friendly, and we agree. Furthermore, we particularly like the useful pause function -- conveniently displayed on the Surfshark dashboard -- which allows users to pause the VPN for a set amount of time.

Review: Surfshark VPN

Surfshark is compatible with iPadOS 14.0.0 or later.

Surshark's pricing is as follows: only $1.99/month if you are happy to remain a subscriber for at least two years (four months free); $2.99 per month on a one-year plan (four months free), or $15.45 for one month of access.

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One of IPVanish's strengths is its range of configuration settings that are great if you want to customize your VPN experience. While it's not the most stylish VPN, IPVanish provides easy access to its range of protocols -- including Wireguard -- and offers many configuration options. In addition, this VPN has a kill switch, a server location with 75 locations, and unlimited simultaneous connections under each account.

Review: IPVanish VPN

Customers consider IPVanish to be a stable and secure service, and we agree with them. We like this VPN's reliability and performance, but we would like to see improvements to the user interface in the future.

IPVanish requires iPadOS 15.0 or later.

You can sign up for a two-year plan for $2.19/month or a yearly subscription for $3.33/month. Alternatively, if you only want a month of service and you don't want to utilize IPVanish's money-back guarantee, it will cost you $12.99.

Note: IPVanish is owned by Ziff Davis, ZDNET's parent company. For more, see our Editorial Guidelines.

IPVanish VPN features: Simultaneous connections: Unlimited | Kill switch: Yes | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, tvOS, Kodi, routers | Logging: None, except billing data | Locations: 75 | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days on Android and iOS | Apple App Store rating: 4.5

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Private Internet Access, also known as PIA, is an excellent iPad VPN option if you put security first. PIA is an great long-term choice with consistently affordable pricing. However, what we like most is that this VPN is open source, which allows much of the VPN's code to be examined by third parties and the public. Furthermore, PIA operates a strict no-logs policy and transparency reports are frequently published.

From the usability side, PIA provides users unlimited simultaneous connections, is compatible with various operating systems, including those within Apple's ecosystem, and has a reasonable server network with 91 countries.

Also: Private Internet Access review

PIA requires iPadOS 12.1 or later, which means it could be your best option if you are using an older iPad. Customers recommend this VPN service and appreciate its approach to security.

If you want to try Private Internet Access outside for yourself, the best deal available is on a two-year plan. You will pay the equivalent of $2.03/month with four months of free access. Alternatively, you could consider PIA's six-month plan for $7.50/month or one month of service for $11.99.

Private Internet Access features: Simultaneous connections: Unlimited | Kill switch: Yes | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, tvOS, routers, Fire TV, NAS | Countries: 91 | Logging: No-logs policy | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days, Android and iOS | Apple App Store rating: 4.7

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Best VPN for iPad	Price	Kill switch	Apple App Store rating	Simultaneous connections
NordVPN	$3.59+ per month	Yes	4.7	Up to 10
ExpressVPN	$6.67+ per month	Yes	4.7	Up to 8
Surfshark VPN	$1.99+ per month	Yes	4.8	Unlimited
IPVanish VPN	$2.19+ per month	Yes	4.5	Unlimited
Private Internet Access	$2.03+ per month	Yes	4.7	Unlimited

*Lowest price at the time of writing. Please note that prices may vary based on retailer and available promotions, sales, or discounts.

Why do I need an iPad VPN?

A VPN is a valuable method for improving your personal privacy and security. No single security solution will protect you against every threat, but a VPN can, at least, provide a layer of encryption and server rerouting to increase your data security, prevent tracking, and mask your IP address.

You should use a VPN with your iPad daily, or at least when your information is at a heightened risk of exposure. For example, if you have to use a public Wi-Fi hotspot -- something we always caution against -- using a VPN can prevent eavesdropping. You may also want to use an iPad VPN to access streaming services outside of your typical location or to circumvent geolocation blocks.

Can I trust iPad VPN services?

This answer depends on the VPN service you have chosen. The VPNs we recommend have undergone extensive testing and have long track records, with often favorable customer reviews. We keep an eye on the market and on individual VPN providers for any relevant updates, and we stay away from untrustworthy organizations. We recommend you research your chosen VPN first and avoid any company offering a free VPN without a transparent data policy.

Choose this VPN for iPhone...	If you want...
NordVPN	The best iPhone VPN overall. NordVPN provides everything that the majority of users want: high speeds, a large server network, strong security, and optional, additional privacy features.
ExpressVPN	The best speeds. ExpressVPN consistently ranks as one of the top VPNs with minimal speed loss, and as a bonus. it is easy to use and has one of the biggest server networks available.
Surfshark VPN	A budget-friendly iPad VPN. Surfshark is our favorite affordable VPN of 2024, offering reasonable speeds for the price point. It's secure, easy to use, and compatible with many operating systems and platforms.
IPVanish VPN	A highly configurable iPad VPN. Alongside good speeds, IPVanish offers users a range of configuration options and protocols.
Private Internet Access	A secure, open source VPN. Open source software can be viewed by third parties, making this VPN a transparent option. It's affordable, too.

When you are selecting your new iPad VPN, you need to consider the following factors:

Cost: You need to consider the overall cost of your new iPad-ready VPN. VPN providers tend to price their software at the equivalent of $X per month, but this may be, in fact, a one-time upfront cost.
Simultaneous connections: If you're paying for a VPN suitable for your iPad, you might still want to use it across multiple devices, such as a desktop PC or laptop. Find out if the number of simultaneous connections available under one account is enough. Most VPN services will now give you at least six, although we prefer paid plans to be unlimited.
Contract length: You will also need to decide how long you want to use a VPN. Month-to-month plans are expensive. You will find the best deals for one- or two-year contracts.
Apps: When selecting a new VPN, you will want to see if the user interface is to your liking -- especially on mobile devices, as they tend to offer less screen space. Have a look at screenshots of the VPN app's interface, which you can always find on the App Store.
Compatibility: You may want to use your new VPN on devices other than your iPad. If this is the case, you might want to explore what operating systems are on your chosen solution's compatibility list. The majority of modern VPNs will support Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS, at minimum.
Trials: Many VPN providers offer a free seven-day iOS trial, so consider trying a few before you commit to a purchase. Alternatively, you can use money-back guarantees to experiment with your new VPN before committing to a contract -- but remember to cancel before the money-back guarantee period ends.

Many providers recommended in this list have been subject to in-depth testing and reviews by members of our ZDNET team. We've been talking about other VPNs for years, spoken with their management and their users, and developed a generally favorable impression.

ZDNET does test VPN services from multiple locations, but we can't test from all locations. Every home, every community, every local ISP, and every nation has a different infrastructure. It's essential that once you choose, you test for all your likely usage profiles and only then make the decision to keep the service or request a money-back guaranteed refund, which all these VPNs have.

If you experience traffic slowdowns, check your VPN and the Wi-Fi connection between your device and your router or access point. Sometimes, connectivity issues begin at the source, and in other cases, switching your selected VPN server may be enough to resolve speed problems or connectivity drops.

We analyzed the best VPNs for iPads below using the following criteria that were most important in helping you make an informed decision:

Performance: Our top VPNs must have a minimum level of performance. After all, there's no point in using a VPN while streaming if your connection continually drops or lags.
Simultaneous connections: Many VPNs limit how many devices you can connect to a service at the same time. If you have a phone, tablet, laptop, desktop, and possibly even a smart TV you want to connect to a VPN, you'd need a service that allows at least five or six simultaneous connections.
Security: There's no point in using a VPN unless its security protocols and encryption levels are up to scratch. We also ensured the development team behind each recommended VPN cared about making security improvements over time and patching reported bugs.
Kill switch: A kill switch prevents you from having an unprotected connection. It is an important feature for a VPN to have, as it protects by preventing a return to a default Wi-Fi connection should your internet connection unexpectedly drop.
Geoblocks and streaming: We know VPNs can be key to accessing local content and services while you're away from home. We ensured that our top recommendations performed well in these factors and are unlikely to slow down your connection while streaming.
Platforms: What systems and devices can you run the VPN on? Our iPad VPN recommendations, naturally, have to run easy-to-use and intuitive mobile apps.
Countries & servers: In how many different countries does the VPN have servers? This can include physical and virtual servers, and whether there are enough -- at least 50 or so -- to provide variety.
Trial length & price: Each VPN we recommend has a solid money-back guarantee.
Support: As with any subscription software, you may encounter problems with installing apps, using the service, renewing, or canceling. We list VPNs with an available support team.

Check out our comprehensive VPN testing methodology page for a more extensive breakdown.

A high-quality VPN should not demand high computing resources or noticeably slow down your iPad. While you may notice a slowdown or high power consumption when using apps on older hardware or legacy OS versions, modern iPads will have no problem handling VPN software. As VPNs, by nature, reroute your online traffic through their servers to hide your IP address and encrypt your data, there will likely be some speed loss.

Apple iPads and iPhones do not have an inbuilt VPN, although you can install one using a mobile device management (MDM) solution. MDM solutions are typically reserved for enterprise and business purposes, so if you are a typical Apple iPad user, we recommend you look for a third-party VPN solution.

VPN providers are generally quick to ensure that updates to the iPad operating system do not impact their apps and services. Unless a VPN provider announces otherwise, it's safe to assume that your VPN will work as usual with new OS updates. However, if you're running an old or legacy OS version, you may encounter compatibility issues.

That depends on how much you trust your carrier. You're better off encrypting your data when it's in motion, whether you use Wi-Fi or a carrier connection. Overall, it's still recommended to use a VPN no matter the type of internet access you are using, although you're going to be safer using a cellular connection than a public Wi-Fi hotspot, for example.

Apple iCloud+ Private Relay is a feature of iCloud+. If you buy any iCloud storage for your Mac, iPhone, or iPad, you'll get the iCloud+ features. However, while Private Relay can hide your email address and location, it only does so when using Safari. You're out of luck if you're using Chrome (or any applications that use the Internet directly). The service is also not available in all countries.

It also shows up as a proxy server. You can't change or hide your location, as you can with a full VPN. Private Relay is a feature of iCloud+, whereas a VPN is a more robust security solution.

There are free, trustworthy VPNs available, including Proton VPN's free plan and Windscribe. Paid subscribers back these services, and so you know that your data is not being traded for access, which negates the whole purpose of using a VPN in the first place. Steer clear of free VPN software from dubious companies, as you won't know if your activities are being tracked or if your information is being sold on to third parties.

Also: The best free VPNs: Expert tested

VPNs are extremely useful tools for protecting your online privacy. However, they come with several disadvantages: you may experience speed loss or be unable to access all of your typical streaming services, depending on the VPN. We recommend that your VPN is on most of the time, and especially when you are conducting sensitive activities, such as banking. However, if you're having trouble accessing your Netflix library, for example, there's no harm in temporarily pausing the service.

You might want a VPN that works best with the iOS ecosystem or another operating system. If you're on the hunt for other trustworthy options, we've also created a guide to the best VPN services with an explainer on free VPNs, and whether they're worth it. Alternatively, check out our top picks for the best free VPNs.

Are there alternative iPad VPNs worth considering?

If the above options don't appeal to you, they are not the only worthwhile VPNs for iPad on the market worth testing out. While we can't showcase every great VPN, you will find some alternative options below: