A VPN for iPad is a must-have tool for anyone who values their online privacy. These apps create a secure connection that shields your personal information from prying eyes, even on public Wi-Fi networks.
Wondering which VPN to choose? We've tested dozens of options to find the very best for your iPad. From super-fast connections to rock-solid security, our top 5 picks offer everything you need to stay safe online. Keep reading to discover which VPN deserves a spot on your iPad in 2025!
Using a VPN is just one way to protect your iPad. For complete protection against drops and impacts, check out our rugged iPad cases with keyboards.
What Is a VPN?
A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, creates a secure connection between your iPad and the internet. It encrypts your data and hides your IP address to protect your privacy online.
How Does a VPN Work?
A VPN creates an encrypted tunnel for your internet traffic. When you connect to a VPN on your iPad, your data travels through this secure tunnel to a server run by the VPN provider.
Your traffic then exits to the open internet with the VPN server's IP address instead of your own. This process hides your real location and identity. Think of it like sending mail through a forwarding service. The recipient sees only the forwarding address, not your actual address.
VPNs use protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN to establish secure connections. WireGuard is newer and faster, making it ideal for iPad users who want speed and security.
Benefits of Using a VPN for iPad
VPNs offer several important advantages for iPad users:
- Protection for your personal data when using public Wi-Fi at coffee shops, airports, or hotels
- Enhanced privacy by preventing your internet service provider from seeing what websites you visit
- Ability to bypass geo-restrictions so you can watch your home country's streaming services while traveling
- Ad blockers and malware protection included with some VPNs for extra security
- Protection against price discrimination when shopping online or booking flights and hotels
Key Features to Look for in an iPad VPN
When choosing a VPN for your iPad, consider these essential features:
- Strong encryption (AES-256 is the gold standard) and a strict no-logs policy
- Large server network for more options when bypassing geo-restrictions
- Fast speeds, especially with the WireGuard protocol for minimal performance impact
- Kill switch feature that cuts your internet if the VPN connection drops
- User-friendly interface with simple one-tap connect options
- Split tunneling capability to choose which apps use the VPN
- Multiple simultaneous connections if you have several devices
1: ExpressVPN for iPad
ExpressVPN transforms your iPad experience with seamless security and genuine convenience. Its intuitive interface makes privacy protection effortless, while biometric login and widgets save precious time when connecting.
The smart split tunneling preserves battery life during travel, and consistently smooth performance ensures buffer-free streaming and crystal-clear video calls no matter where you are.
Other notable features:
- 3,000+ servers across 105 countries for global content access
- AES-256 encryption and automatic kill switch protection
- TrustedServer technology with RAM-only servers for enhanced privacy
- Verified zero-logs policy through independent security audits
- Smooth performance across all iPad models, including older versions
- Reliable streaming support for Netflix, Disney+, and other services
Pricing and Plans
ExpressVPN's pricing reflects its premium status. Monthly plans start around $12.95, while the annual plan offers better value at about $8.32 per month.
All plans include:
- Unlimited bandwidth
- 24/7 customer support
- Up to 8 simultaneous connections
- 30-day money-back guarantee
ExpressVPN doesn't offer a free trial, but the money-back policy lets you test the service risk-free. This gives you time to see if it meets your iPad VPN needs.
One subscription works across all your devices, including your iPad, iPhone, and other platforms.
2: NordVPN for iPad
NordVPN offers top-tier protection for iPad users with powerful encryption and impressive speeds. Its sleek, intuitive app makes security simple with just a few taps. Your battery stays charged longer thanks to efficient power management.
With servers worldwide, you'll enjoy stable connections for streaming, banking, and browsing anywhere. No matter if you're on your couch or in a foreign café, NordVPN keeps your iPad secure.
Other notable features:
- 5,000+ servers across 60+ countries for consistent global coverage
- Innovative NordLynx protocol for superior speed without compromising security
- CyberSec technology that blocks ads and dangerous websites automatically
- Double VPN option for extra-sensitive activities requiring additional encryption
- Specialized servers optimized for streaming, P2P, or enhanced privacy
- Smart DNS feature for easily accessing streaming content on your iPad
Pricing and Plans
NordVPN offers several subscription options:
|
Plan |
Price |
Details |
|
Monthly |
$11.99 |
Highest flexibility |
|
1-Year |
$4.99/month |
58% savings |
|
2-Year |
$3.69/month |
Best overall value |
All plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee, letting you test NordVPN on your iPad risk-free.
Payment options include credit cards, cryptocurrency, and various online payment systems.
NordVPN often has special promotions during holidays or tech events, so watch for deals.
Premium add-ons like NordPass (password manager) and NordLocker (encrypted storage) can enhance your digital security on your iPad.
Want to share your securely streamed content on a bigger screen? Our iPad cases with HDMI ports let you connect your tablet to TVs and monitors while keeping it protected.
3: Surfshark for iPad
Surfshark stands out for iPad users seeking maximum value without compromising quality. Its clean interface puts powerful security at your fingertips with minimal battery impact. You'll enjoy smooth streaming and browsing thanks to their 10Gbps servers. Best of all, one account protects all your devices—perfect for Apple users with multiple gadgets.
Other notable features:
- Expansive network of 10Gbps servers across 100+ countries
- CleanWeb feature blocks ads, trackers, and malicious sites
- Modern WireGuard protocol balances speed and security
- Camouflage Mode prevents detection of VPN usage
- No-logs policy independently audited for verification
- Whitelister feature for split tunneling specific apps
Pricing and Plans
Surfshark offers a 7-day free trial for iOS/iPadOS users, letting you test all features before paying. No credit card is required to start the trial.
Monthly plans are competitively priced, and longer-term plans offer significant savings. The 24-month plan usually provides the best value.
All subscriptions include a 30-day money-back guarantee, giving you a risk-free period to try the service on your iPad.
Payment options include credit cards, PayPal, and cryptocurrency. Regular deals make Surfshark affordable for budget-conscious iPad users.
4: ProtonVPN for iPad
ProtonVPN delivers exceptional privacy for security-focused iPad users with its Swiss-based protection and transparent policies. The app feels right at home on iPadOS with its clean, intuitive controls designed for touch. Your battery stays charged longer with its efficient design, and you'll appreciate the rare combination of strong ethics and technical excellence not found in many competitors.
Other notable features:
- Swiss jurisdiction with some of the world's strongest privacy laws
- Secure Core architecture that routes traffic through hardened servers
- NetShield ad-blocker and malware protection built in
- Open-source apps with published security audits for transparency
- Perfect Forward Secrecy ensuring past sessions remain encrypted
- TOR over VPN support for maximum anonymity
Pricing and Plans
ProtonVPN offers a free plan with unlimited data, which is rare in the VPN industry. The free tier gives you access to servers in three countries, though at reduced speeds. For full features, you'll need one of their paid plans. Here are the details:
|
Plan |
Monthly Cost |
Annual Cost |
Features |
|
Free |
$0 |
$0 |
3 countries, 1 device, medium speed |
|
Plus |
$5.99 |
$59.88 ($4.99/mo) |
65+ countries, 10 devices, highest speed |
|
Visionary |
$11.99 |
$119.88 ($9.99/mo) |
Plus features + Proton Mail |
All paid plans include access to all servers, maximum speeds, and advanced features like Secure Core and NetShield. ProtonVPN often offers discounts on longer-term subscriptions.
5: CyberGhost for iPad
CyberGhost makes VPN protection effortless for iPad users with its straightforward approach and purpose-built servers. The colorful, intuitive interface eliminates confusion when connecting to specialized servers for streaming or security. Your iPad experience remains smooth thanks to optimized performance, and the app's smart automation handles the technical details so you can focus on using your device with confidence.
Other notable features:
- Extensive network of 9,000+ servers in 91 countries
- Specialized servers labeled for specific uses like streaming or torrenting
- Automatic Wi-Fi protection that activates when connecting to new networks
- Smart rules for customizing how the VPN behaves in different situations
- Independent security audits verifying privacy claims
- Built-in ad and malware blocking to improve browsing experience
Pricing and Plans
CyberGhost offers several subscription options with big discounts on longer-term plans:
- Monthly plan: $12.99/month
- 1-year plan: $7.99/month ($95.88 billed annually)
- 2-year plan: $4.99/month ($119.76 billed every 2 years)
- 3-year plan: $2.99/month ($107.64 billed every 3 years)
All plans include a 45-day money-back guarantee for subscriptions longer than a month. Monthly plans have a 14-day refund period.
CyberGhost often runs special promotions, especially during holidays and cyber sales events. You can pay with credit cards, PayPal, or Bitcoin for anonymous payments.
After setting up your VPN for secure streaming, enjoy your content hands-free with our iPad cases with built-in stands.
Conclusion: VPN for iPad
Choosing the right VPN for iPad is crucial for protecting your privacy and accessing content without restrictions. Each of the five VPNs we've covered offers unique advantages, from ExpressVPN's smooth performance to ProtonVPN's free tier.
Consider your priorities—whether that's streaming capabilities, security features, or budget—and select the VPN that best fits your needs. Remember that investing in quality protection now prevents privacy headaches later.
Want to make the most of your newly-secured iPad? Check out our guide to Top 8 iPad Apps to Enhance Your Productivity.
Frequently Asked Questions: VPN for iPad
Does iPad have built-in VPN?
No, iPads don't include a built-in VPN service. iPads have VPN configuration settings but require a third-party subscription. Find these settings under Settings > General > VPN & Device Management.
How do I activate VPN on my iPad?
Download your chosen VPN app from the App Store. Open the app, sign in, and tap the connect button. For manual setup, go to Settings > General > VPN & Device Management > Add VPN Configuration.
Are there any dangers in using a VPN?
Untrustworthy free VPNs may log and sell your browsing data. Low-quality VPNs can significantly slow your connection. Always choose reputable providers with strong encryption and no-logs policies.
Can I use NordVPN on my iPad?
Yes, NordVPN works excellently on iPad. Their App Store application is optimized for iPadOS. One subscription protects multiple devices with access to over 5,000 servers worldwide.
