As cyber threats continue to evolve, maintaining privacy and security online is more important than ever. VPN (Virtual Private Network) apps for smartphones have become essential for protecting personal data, securing online activities, and ensuring anonymity. In 2024, there are several standout VPN apps that provide excellent features and services. This guide will walk you through the best mobile VPN apps of 2024 and explain their unique features.

NordVPN remains a top choice for mobile VPN users in 2024. With its reputation for offering a high level of privacy, it stands out for both beginners and advanced users.

 Key Features

- Double VPN Encryption: For those looking for an added layer of security, NordVPN routes your connection through two VPN servers, providing twice the encryption.

- Threat Protection: Automatically blocks malicious websites, ads, and trackers even when the VPN is off.

- 6,000+ Servers: With servers spread across 60 countries, users can access geo-blocked content from virtually anywhere.

- No Logs Policy: NordVPN adheres to a strict no-logs policy, ensuring that none of your browsing activities are tracked or stored.

- SmartPlay Technology: Optimizes streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime, making it easier to bypass geo-restrictions.

- Fast Connection Speeds: With NordLynx, a custom protocol based on WireGuard, NordVPN offers some of the fastest speeds available.

Price: Starts at $3.29/month (if billed for two years).

ExpressVPN has long been known for its simplicity and speed. In 2024, it continues to deliver on these promises while expanding its server network and enhancing its security protocols.

- TrustedServer Technology: This unique feature ensures that all data is wiped from servers upon reboot, offering additional peace of mind.

- Lightning-Fast Servers: ExpressVPN is among the fastest mobile VPNs, perfect for streaming, gaming, and torrenting without lag.

- Simple User Interface: The app is designed with simplicity in mind, making it easy for even non-tech users to activate and use VPN services.

- 5 Simultaneous Connections: Users can secure multiple devices with a single subscription.

- Split Tunneling: Allows users to decide which apps should use the VPN connection and which should bypass it, optimizing speed for selective services.

- 24/7 Customer Support: ExpressVPN has one of the best customer support teams, available at all times through live chat.

Price: Starts at $6.67/month (if billed annually).

Surfshark has become one of the most popular choices due to its affordability and premium features. It’s particularly favored by users who want unlimited connections.

- Unlimited Devices: One of the few VPNs that allow you to connect unlimited devices on a single account, making it ideal for families or small businesses.

- Camouflage Mode: Makes your traffic look like regular internet traffic, ensuring your VPN use goes undetected, even by your ISP.

- CleanWeb Feature: Blocks ads, trackers, malware, and phishing attempts while browsing.

- MultiHop: Similar to NordVPN’s Double VPN, this feature allows you to connect via multiple countries at once for added privacy.

- Strict No-Logs Policy: Surfshark doesn't store any data related to your online activities.

- Bypasse : A split-tunneling feature that allows some apps to use a VPN connection while others access the internet normally.

Price: Starts at $2.49/month (if billed for two years).

CyberGhost is perfect for those who are new to VPNs but still want robust security features. It provides a user-friendly experience with an emphasis on privacy.

- Streaming Optimized Servers: CyberGhost has specialized servers for streaming platforms, ensuring smooth access to Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and others.

- 45-Day Money-Back Guarantee: One of the longest refund policies, allowing users to try the service risk-free.

- 7,200+ Servers: With a vast network spanning over 90 countries, it offers one of the most diverse and large server selections.

- Wi-Fi Protection: Automatically enables VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi, offering instant security in risky environments.

- No-Logs Policy: CyberGhost does not track or store any data related to its users' activities.

- AES 256-Bit Encryption: Ensures military-grade encryption, protecting user data from hackers and eavesdroppers.

Price: Starts at $2.19/month (if billed for three years).

ProtonVPN stands out as one of the few VPN services offering a truly free plan with no data caps. For privacy-focused users, it's a solid option, as it’s developed by the same team that created ProtonMail, known for its secure email services.

Key Features:

- Free Plan: Unlike most free VPNs, ProtonVPN offers unlimited bandwidth, making it perfect for light browsing and basic use.

- Strong Privacy: Based in Switzerland, a country with some of the strongest privacy laws in the world.

- Secure Core Servers: Routes traffic through privacy-friendly countries like Iceland and Switzerland to ensure maximum security.

- Tor over VPN: Provides direct access to the Tor network, making it ideal for those who prioritize anonymity.

- Streaming Servers: ProtonVPN has dedicated servers optimized for streaming services, allowing users to bypass geo-blocking with ease.

- No-Logs Policy: ProtonVPN doesn’t track user activities, keeping your browsing completely private.

Price: Free plan available, premium starts at $4.99/month.

Private Internet Access (PIA) is known for its transparency and commitment to privacy. It’s an excellent option for advanced users looking for customizable VPN settings.

- Open-Source Apps: All PIA apps are open-source, providing greater transparency and trust in the service.

- 10 Simultaneous Connections: Users can protect up to 10 devices simultaneously with one subscription.

- Customizable Encryption: PIA allows users to choose between different encryption levels, balancing speed and security based on personal preference.

- Ad and Tracker Blocking: The built-in MACE feature blocks ads, trackers, and malware.

- Unlimited Bandwidth: No restrictions on data usage, making it suitable for heavy browsing, streaming, and downloading.

- Dedicated IP Option: Users can opt for a unique IP address, which is great for bypassing restrictions without sharing an IP with others.

Price: Starts at $2.03/month (if billed for three years).

IPVanish has made strides in recent years, offering a highly reliable mobile VPN experience with some advanced features aimed at tech-savvy users.

- Unmetered Connections: Like Surfshark, IPVanish offers an unlimited number of devices per account.

- Scramble Feature: This feature disguises your OpenVPN traffic, helping you avoid VPN blocking.

- 256-Bit AES Encryption: Military-grade encryption ensures that your online activities are protected from prying eyes.

- Automated Kill Switch: If your VPN connection drops, this feature ensures your internet connection is disabled until the VPN reconnects, preventing accidental exposure.

- Secure Cloud Backup: IPVanish offers secure cloud storage, allowing users to store sensitive files with encryption.

- 24/7 Customer Support: Around-the-clock support ensures any issues are resolved quickly.

 Price: Starts at $3.33/month (if billed annually).

Conclusion

Each of these VPN apps offers unique features, and the right one for you depends on your specific needs. Whether you prioritize speed, security, or affordability, the best mobile VPN apps in 2024 provide a range of features to suit everyone. Be sure to choose a VPN that aligns with your usage patterns, whether you want to stream geo-restricted content, enhance your privacy, or secure your browsing while using public Wi-Fi.