The best VPN services for iPad in 2026: Expert tested and reviewed
At ZDNET, we test the best iPad gear and accessories, and if you're looking for an excellent virtual private network (VPN) for your iPad, we've got you covered, too.
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. At ZDNET, we test the speed of VPNs monthly to ensure our recommendations match the best service for readers like you.
The best VPNs for Apple's iPad 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, we have found the best iPad VPNs available today.
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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.
Also: The best free VPNs
In our February update, we added our latest speed testing results.
Sort by All Countries and servers Usability Speed and performance Security PriceThe best VPN for iPad in 2026
Show less View now at NordVPNNordVPN 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.
In our February 2026 VPN testing, NordVPN had a download speed of 704.11 Mbps and an upload speed of 101.14 Mbps, compared to a starting download speed of 776.47 Mbps and a starting upload speed of 108.11 Mbps.
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 $3.09/month on a two-year plan. This is the best deal currently on offer with three months extra access added to the length of the contract. If you would prefer to start on a 12-month plan, subscriptions begin at $4.99/month. Premium plans include features such as a malware blocker, a password manager, and 1TB cloud storage.
NordVPN features: Simultaneous connections: 10 | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, tvOS, routers | Countries: 118 | 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
Pros
- Simple, straightforward app installation
- Rapid speeds
- Attractive user interface
- Solid performance
- Limited simultaneous connections
NordVPN
Best iPad VPN overall
4.4 / 5 ScoreNordVPN 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.
In our February 2026 VPN testing, NordVPN had a download speed of 704.11 Mbps and an upload speed of 101.14 Mbps, compared to a starting download speed of 776.47 Mbps and a starting upload speed of 108.11 Mbps.
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 $3.09/month on a two-year plan. This is the best deal currently on offer with three months extra access added to the length of the contract. If you would prefer to start on a 12-month plan, subscriptions begin at $4.99/month. Premium plans include features such as a malware blocker, a password manager, and 1TB cloud storage.
NordVPN features: Simultaneous connections: 10 | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, tvOS, routers | Countries: 118 | 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
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.
In our February 2026 VPN testing, ExpressVPN had a download speed of 645.77 Mbps and an upload speed of 95.23 Mbps, compared to a starting download speed of 776.47 Mbps and a starting upload speed of 108.11 Mbps.
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 offers subscription options including a two-year plan at $4.99 monthly, a one-year plan at $6.67 per month, and a one-month term for $12.95. Multiple convenient payment methods are accepted, including Apple Pay and Bitcoin. A complimentary eSIM is included with all subscription plans.
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 | Apple App Store rating: 4.7
Countries and servers 9 Usability 10 Speed and performance 10 Security 8 Price 5Pros
- Multi-platform compatibility
- Stable and speedy performance
- Easy setup
- Extensive server network
- Expensive
- Limited simultaneous connections
ExpressVPN
Best iPad VPN for speed
4.2 / 5 ScoreExpressVPN 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.
In our February 2026 VPN testing, ExpressVPN had a download speed of 645.77 Mbps and an upload speed of 95.23 Mbps, compared to a starting download speed of 776.47 Mbps and a starting upload speed of 108.11 Mbps.
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 offers subscription options including a two-year plan at $4.99 monthly, a one-year plan at $6.67 per month, and a one-month term for $12.95. Multiple convenient payment methods are accepted, including Apple Pay and Bitcoin. A complimentary eSIM is included with all subscription plans.
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 | Apple App Store rating: 4.7
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.
In our February 2026 VPN testing, Surfshark had a download speed of 691.27 Mbps and an upload speed of 93.59 Mbps, compared to a starting download speed of 776.47 Mbps and a starting upload speed of 108.11 Mbps.
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; $3.19 per month on a one-year plan, or $15.45 for one month of access.
Surfshark VPN features: Simultaneous connections: Unlimited | Ad-blocker | Two-factor authentication | Kill switch: Yes | Logging: No-logs policy | Countries: 100 | Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Fire TV, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, tvOS, routers | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days on Android, iOS, and macOS | Apple App Store rating: 4.7
Pros
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Excellent pricing on two-year plans
- Value for money
- Slower server connection times
Surfshark VPN
Best budget iPad VPN
4 / 5 ScoreSurfshark 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.
In our February 2026 VPN testing, Surfshark had a download speed of 691.27 Mbps and an upload speed of 93.59 Mbps, compared to a starting download speed of 776.47 Mbps and a starting upload speed of 108.11 Mbps.
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; $3.19 per month on a one-year plan, or $15.45 for one month of access.
Surfshark VPN features: Simultaneous connections: Unlimited | Ad-blocker | Two-factor authentication | Kill switch: Yes | Logging: No-logs policy | Countries: 100 | Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Fire TV, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, tvOS, routers | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days on Android, iOS, and macOS | Apple App Store rating: 4.7
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, server coverage across 140+ locations, and unlimited simultaneous connections under each account.
Review: IPVanish VPN
In our February 2026 VPN testing, IPVanish had a download speed of 611.23 Mbps and an upload speed of 86.58 Mbps, compared to a starting download speed of 776.47 Mbps and a starting upload speed of 108.11 Mbps.
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: 108 countries | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days on Android and iOS | Apple App Store rating: 4.6
Countries and servers 8 Usability 8 Speed and performance 7 Security 7 Price 8Pros
- Unlimited connections
- Highly configurable app
- Affordable
- Bland user interface
- Few additional privacy features
IPVanish VPN
Best configurable VPN for iPad
3.8 / 5 ScoreOne 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, server coverage across 140+ locations, and unlimited simultaneous connections under each account.
Review: IPVanish VPN
In our February 2026 VPN testing, IPVanish had a download speed of 611.23 Mbps and an upload speed of 86.58 Mbps, compared to a starting download speed of 776.47 Mbps and a starting upload speed of 108.11 Mbps.
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: 108 countries | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days on Android and iOS | Apple App Store rating: 4.6
Read MorePrivate 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.
In our February 2026 VPN testing, PIA had a download speed of 511.85 Mbps and an upload speed of 77.79 Mbps, compared to a starting download speed of 776.47 Mbps and a starting upload speed of 108.11 Mbps.
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 three-year plan for $2.03/month. Alternatively, you could consider PIA's one-year plan for $3.33/month, or one month of service for $11.95.
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
Pros
- Top-tier security features
- Open source
- Affordable
- Upload speeds can be slow
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.
In our February 2026 VPN testing, PIA had a download speed of 511.85 Mbps and an upload speed of 77.79 Mbps, compared to a starting download speed of 776.47 Mbps and a starting upload speed of 108.11 Mbps.
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 three-year plan for $2.03/month. Alternatively, you could consider PIA's one-year plan for $3.33/month, or one month of service for $11.95.
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
VPNs for iPad, compared
Best VPN for iPad | Price | Kill switch | Apple App Store rating | Simultaneous connections |
NordVPN | $3.09+ per month | Yes | 4.7 | Up to 10 |
ExpressVPN | $4.99+ per month | Yes | 4.7 | Up to 8 |
Surfshark VPN | $1.99+ per month | Yes | 4.7 | Unlimited |
IPVanish VPN | $2.19+ per month | Yes | 4.6 | 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.
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