For safer web browsing and IP address masking, free VPN software for iOS has become a popular solution. However, with so many options available today, finding a reliable free VPN can be challenging. Fortunately, this article by Hidemyacc presents 7 best free VPN software for iOS to help enhance your online security. Let’s dive in and explore these options!
1. 7 best free VPN software for iOS 2024
Here are some reliable free VPN services that allow you to experience fast speeds with excellent security:
1.1. Hotspot Shield software
Hotspot Shield consistently ranks among the best free VPNs for iOS, earning a place as a top choice for users. With over 3,200 servers across 70 countries and an intuitive interface, it’s designed for seamless streaming, shopping, and social media access.
Hotspot Shield provides robust security features and fast internet speeds, allowing users to hide their IP addresses, encrypt data, and browse safely without fear of being tracked.
Some outstanding features of Hotspot Shield include:
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Quick, consistent connection with a single click across multiple platforms like Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Chrome.
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Servers are located in 4 locations: Singapore, UK, US East, and US West.
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Features Connect up to 5 devices at the same time.
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Exclusive Catapult Hydra VPN technology optimizes connections to multiple servers, delivering faster speeds with strong performance, even over long distances.
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Watch ads to get unlimited data.
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Free access to virtual servers in Singapore, UK and US.
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Free version users can receive email support and access detailed online tutorials.
1.2. ProtonVPN - Best Free VPN for iOS
If you’re seeking a free VPN for iPhone with no bandwidth limitations, ProtonVPN is an excellent choice. In addition to offering unlimited bandwidth, ProtonVPN features an intuitive interface that displays all essential information on a single screen, making it easy for users to navigate and operate.
ProtonVPN stands out with superior features such as:
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Unlimited free data and no ads.
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The VPN server system is located in 3 countries including the United States, Japan and the Netherlands.
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Commit to a no-logs policy.
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Military-grade encryption, kill switch, and data leak protection.
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Support for connecting one device at a time, with compatibility across multiple platforms such as Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, and Chromebook.
1.3. Windscribe VPN software
Windscribe is one of the best free VPN software for iOS, standing out for its ability to block ads and trackers, giving users a safer and more private browsing experience. Additionally, the software restores access to censored content, allowing for a more open web experience. With its user-friendly interface, Windscribe is ideal for anyone looking to protect personal data and enhance online security.
Windscribe possesses features such as:
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Free 10GB per month.
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Users can access 14 servers located in 11 countries.
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Network access speed is quite fast, about 240Mbps.
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The feature allows unblocking geo-restricted content, including politics, sports, and more.
1.4. TunnelBear software
TunnelBear is an impressive free VPN software for iOS that allows users to access most servers, with the exception of those in Canada and the United States. The app provides access to premium features, such as VigilantBear (a scrambling feature) and various connection protocols.
Its interface is user-friendly, allowing easy navigation via a map or server menu for quick setting adjustments. However, the free version of TunnelBear includes a 2GB monthly data limit, making it best suited for light browsing or checking emails.
TunnelBear's main features include:
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Free access to servers in over 40 countries (except US and Canada).
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Uses AES-256-bit encryption with a no-logs policy.
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Supports unlimited connections for multiple devices at the same time.
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Compatible with Windows, Mac, Android and iOS operating systems.
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Provides email support for free users.
1.5. Best free VPN software for iOS - Avira Phantom VPN
Avira Phantom is an excellent choice among the best free VPN software for iOS, offering unlimited simultaneous connections to protect all devices in your home. This VPN also includes free servers in 37 countries—a remarkable feature for a free service.
However, with a data limit of 500MB per month, Avira Phantom VPN may not be suitable for bandwidth-heavy activities like streaming or torrenting (approximately 30 minutes of HD streaming). You can earn an additional 500MB each month by signing up with your email address.
Some features of Avira Phantom VPN that you can refer to are:
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Unlimited connectivity provides free protection for all Apple devices.
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AES 256 bit encryption with military standards helps protect users' online privacy every time they surf the web on iPhone.
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The no-registration feature helps you enjoy a private browsing experience without creating an account or logging in.
1.6. ExpressVPN Freeware
ExpressVPN is a free VPN for iPhone known for its ability to function effectively on restricted networks and in countries with strict censorship, such as China and the UAE. Its exclusive Lightway protocol provides fast speeds while consuming fewer resources compared to traditional protocols.
ExpressVPN is an excellent choice for streaming, allowing seamless access to platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Max, and Disney+ from virtually anywhere. With 3,000 servers across 105 countries, finding a nearby server is always easy.
The advanced features that ExpressVPN brings to users include:
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Threat Manager helps block all communication between iPhone and servers that track or contain malware. Additionally, you also have the option to block ads and trackers.
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ExpressVPN is one of the few VPNs that work reliably in China. It provides mirror links, allowing you to install VPN even in environments where other VPN sites are blocked.
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Shortcuts allow creating one-click connections to specific applications or websites. This gives you quick access to services with enhanced security.
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All of ExpressVPN's servers use only RAM, so all user information will be erased upon reboot.
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The strict no-logs policy has been tested and confirmed, which helps protect user data at all times.
1.7. hide.me software
hide.me is among the best free VPN software for iOS that uniquely supports IPv6—a protocol that is still not widely adopted. While most VPNs block IPv6 traffic due to the predominant use of IPv4, hide.me securely routes all IPv6 traffic through the VPN, enhancing user security. The free plan provides access to 8 server locations across Europe and the US, offering solid coverage for general browsing needs.
The main features of hide.me VPN include:
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Effectively prevent IPv4/IPv6 leaks to protect your iPhone's safety.
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Unlimited monthly data allows you to freely surf the web without worrying about restrictions.
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Disconnect feature to protect your iPhone's safety. If the VPN connection is suddenly disconnected, this feature will automatically block all Internet traffic to and from your device, preventing data leakage until the VPN connection is restored.
2. Quick comparison table of the best free VPNs for iOS
Below is a quick comparison of the standout features for each free VPN software for iOS listed above. When choosing the best VPN app for iOS, speed is a crucial factor, as it directly impacts your browsing experience. Additionally, the monthly data limit is an important consideration for users seeking uninterrupted service.
Hotspot Shield |
ProtonVPN |
Windscribe VPN |
TunnelBear |
Avira Phantom VPN |
ExpressVPN |
hide.me |
|
Speed |
Fast |
Fast |
Fast |
Slow on remote servers |
Slow |
Very fast |
Slow on remote servers |
Request an account |
Are not |
Have |
Have |
Have |
Are not |
Have |
Are not |
Monthly data |
Unlimited |
Unlimited |
2GB (10GB if subscribed) |
2GB |
500MB (1GB if registered) |
Unlimited |
Unlimited, but will not be able to select a server after 10GB runs out |
Servers are available |
4 locations – New York, Los Angeles, Singapore, UK |
5 locations – United States, Japan, Romania, Netherlands, Poland |
13 servers in 10 countries - UK, Hong Kong, USA, Canada, France, Germany, Romania, Netherlands, Norway, Switzerland |
45 locations worldwide |
37 locations worldwide |
3000+ servers in 105 locations |
7 locations – Finland, France, Germany, Netherlands, Switzerland, United Kingdom, United States |
Logging policy |
No strict logging |
No strict logging |
No strict logging |
Keep anonymous logs |
Keep anonymous logs |
Checked no-logs policy |
No strict logging |
Supports streaming and torrenting |
✘ |
✘ |
✔ |
✔ |
✘ |
✔ |
Supports torrent downloads |
iOS compatibility |
iOS 14+ |
iOS 15+ |
iOS 15+ |
iOS 13+ |
iOS 12+ |
iOS 15+ |
iOS 12+ |
3. Some frequently asked questions about free VPN for iPhone
In this section, Hidemyacc addresses common questions related to the best free VPN software for iOS, helping you make well-informed decisions when selecting the ideal service for your device.
3.1. Does a VPN drain your iPhone's battery and use more data?
Yes, using a free VPN for iPhone can lead to higher data and battery consumption. However, ExpressVPN's Lightway protocol is designed to minimize battery usage. You might also consider switching to protocols like WireGuard or IKEv2, which help conserve mobile data and reduce roaming costs
3.2. What is the best free VPN for iPhone?
One of the best free VPN software for iOS is ProtonVPN, which offers a lifetime free plan. This service provides unlimited data and has servers in the US, Netherlands, and Japan. Unlike many other free VPNs, ProtonVPN includes a Stealth protocol, which helps you bypass anti-VPN firewalls on certain networks.
3.3. Is a free VPN for iPhone safe?
Yes, some free VPN apps for iOS are indeed safe. However, many free services come with risks, such as:
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Sell your data to advertisers, even on the black market.
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Personal information leak due to poor encryption.
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Insert malware into your iPhone.
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Attacks you with ads containing viruses.
4. Dangers and limitations of free VPN for IOS
Using a free VPN software for iPhone may pose risks to your online safety. Here are some potential dangers to consider when downloading a free VPN:
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Recording and selling personal data: Many free VPNs collect your browsing information and may sell it to advertisers or third parties for profit. To protect your privacy, choose a VPN with a strict no-logs policy.
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Risk of data leak: Due to a lack of resources to continuously update security features, many free VPNs may not be able to protect your information enough. Make sure the VPN you choose uses 256-bit AES encryption and has protections against IP/DNS leaks.
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Risk of virus and malware infection: Although Apple strictly controls applications on the App Store, some free VPNs can still carry potential risks of viruses or malware.
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Rampant advertising: To compensate for not charging users, many free VPNs often insert ads into the app, which are annoying and can even lead to security risks.
Additionally, free VPNs typically change the IP address at the system level, causing all browsers and applications on your device to use the same IP. This limitation means you cannot run multiple profiles with different IP addresses simultaneously. To switch IPs, you’ll need to disconnect from your current VPN and reconnect to a new location, which can be inconvenient.
For users needing a more flexible solution for managing multiple accounts, proxies provide a better alternative, allowing separate IP addresses for each application and browser. This setup lets you operate multiple profiles with different IPs simultaneously, enhancing the flexibility and diversity of your network connections.
However, simply changing your IP address is often insufficient, as websites can still identify users through browser fingerprinting. For maximum security, combining a proxy with an anti-detection browser, like Hidemyacc, is ideal for managing multiple accounts. This approach not only maintains anonymity but also strengthens account security.
With Hidemyacc, you can modify browser fingerprint parameters and create unique identities for each profile. This allows you to access websites like Facebook, Amazon, Etsy, and more without fear of detection.
Above are the top 7 options for the best free VPN software for iOS. In a landscape where many free VPNs carry potential risks, choosing a reputable service can help you browse the web with greater peace of mind. Always review each service's features and terms carefully to ensure a safe and enjoyable online experience. If you have any questions about VPNs or anti-detection browsers, feel free to contact Hidemyacc for expert advice!