BestFreeVPN
Updated June 2026 · Tested on Android

The best free VPNs for Android

Android gives free VPNs room to do more: split tunneling, system-wide always-on, per-app control. We tested each pick from the Play Store on a current Android phone and ranked them on what Android actually lets them do.

Play Store apps Split tunneling noted Always-on VPN supported
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Quick answer

Best free VPN for Android: Proton VPN

Proton VPN tops our Android list for the same reason it tops everything (unlimited free data), but on Android it also supports split tunneling and Android's built-in always-on VPN, so it fits right into the system. If you want more control or streaming, the next two picks earn their place.

1
Best overall for Android

Proton VPN Free

★★★★★ 9.4 / 10
9.4
Our score
DataUnlimited
Split tunnelYes
Always-onYes
Servers5 countries
No-logsAudited

On Android, Proton VPN's unlimited data means you can set it as an always-on VPN in Android's settings and forget about it, with no cap to blow through on mobile data. The app supports split tunneling, so you can route most traffic through the VPN while letting a banking or maps app connect directly. It's open source and independently audited, which matters more on the platform where you install the most apps.

Best for: Android users who want an always-on VPN they can switch on once and forget about.
Get Proton VPN on Google Play → Free · no card required

Read our full Proton VPN review →

2
Most features on Android

Windscribe Free

★★★★½ 8.8 / 10
8.8
Our score
Data10 GB / mo
Split tunnelYes
Ad blockerBuilt-in
Servers10+ countries
No-logsStated

Windscribe is the power user's free Android pick. Its R.O.B.E.R.T. blocker strips ads and trackers system-wide, which means cleaner browsing and fewer ads inside free apps, and the Android app includes per-app split tunneling. The 10 GB monthly allowance is generous for browsing but tight for video, so it pairs well with Wi-Fi at home and selective use on mobile data.

Best for: Android users who want a built-in ad blocker and granular per-app control.
Visit Windscribe → Free · email sign-up

Read our full Windscribe review →

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3
Best for streaming on Android

PrivadoVPN Free

★★★★½ 8.6 / 10
8.6
Our score
Data10 GB + slow
StreamingYes
Kill switchYes
Servers10 countries
No-logsStated

If you mainly want to watch something on your Android phone or tablet, PrivadoVPN is the most capable free option. It unblocks more streaming services than the others, gives you ten free locations to pick from, and drops to unlimited (slow) data instead of cutting you off at the 10 GB cap. The Android app includes a kill switch to stop traffic leaking if the VPN drops.

Best for: Streaming and travel on an Android phone or tablet.
Get PrivadoVPN on Google Play → Free · no card required

Read our full PrivadoVPN review →

Good to know on Android

Setting up a free VPN on Android

How do I turn on always-on VPN in Android?

After installing a VPN app and connecting once, go to Settings → Network & internet → VPN, tap the gear next to your VPN, and switch on "Always-on VPN" (and optionally "Block connections without VPN"). Because this keeps the VPN running constantly, a no-cap option like Proton VPN is the practical choice.

What is split tunneling and should I use it?

Split tunneling lets you choose which apps go through the VPN and which connect normally. It's handy for keeping a banking app, food delivery, or local maps on your real connection while everything else is protected. Proton VPN and Windscribe both support it on Android.

Should I install a VPN from an APK instead of the Play Store?

Stick to the Play Store (or the provider's official site) whenever possible. Random APK sites are a common way malware gets onto Android, and a VPN sees all your traffic, the last app you want to install from an untrusted source. Every VPN here is on the Play Store.

Will a free VPN slow down my Android phone?

Expect a small speed reduction, which is normal for any VPN. Day-to-day browsing stays smooth on the picks here. If you notice lag, try a closer server location or switch protocols in the app's settings.

Looking for another platform? See our picks for iPhone, Windows, or the full free VPN ranking.

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