The iPhone 16 Pro, Apple’s latest flagship released in 2024, is a powerhouse of technology, boasting cutting-edge features like the A18 Pro chip, a stunning 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR display, and advanced security measures. However, even with Apple’s robust built-in privacy features, your online activity can still be exposed to prying eyes—whether it’s your internet service provider (ISP), hackers on public Wi-Fi, or websites tracking your every move. This is where a Virtual Private Network (VPN) comes in. A VPN encrypts your internet connection, hides your IP address, and ensures your data remains private and secure.
With countless VPN options available, choosing the best one for your iPhone 16 Pro can feel overwhelming. In this article, we’ll explore the top VPNs—Surfshark, Private Internet Access (PIA), IPVanish, NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Proton VPN—focusing on their features, performance, and compatibility with the iPhone 16 Pro. After careful analysis, we’ll crown the best VPN for this device and explain why it stands out.
Why You Need a VPN for Your iPhone 16 Pro
Before diving into the VPNs, let’s understand why a VPN is essential for your iPhone 16 Pro:
- Privacy Protection: Without a VPN, your IP address—like 2a00:1358:e2ab:f000:7065:c8a2:962:62e2 (example from Cyprus Telecommunications Authority)—is visible to websites, advertisers, and ISPs, revealing your location and browsing habits.
- Public Wi-Fi Security: Whether you’re at a café or airport, public Wi-Fi is a hotspot for hackers. A VPN encrypts your connection, keeping your data safe.
- Access Restricted Content: Traveling or living in a region with geo-blocked content? A VPN lets you bypass restrictions to stream Netflix, BBC iPlayer, or other services.
- Enhanced Security: With malware, trackers, and phishing attempts on the rise, a VPN with additional features like ad blockers or antivirus can bolster your iPhone’s defenses.
Now, let’s evaluate the top contenders.
1. Surfshark: The Best VPN for iPhone 16 Pro
Overview: Surfshark is a Netherlands-based VPN that has quickly risen to prominence thanks to its affordability, unlimited device connections, and robust feature set. Priced at just €2.19/month (down from €4.60) with a 30-day money-back guarantee, it’s an unbeatable value.
Why It’s Great for iPhone 16 Pro:
- Unlimited Devices: Protect your iPhone 16 Pro, iPad, MacBook, and more with a single subscription—an ideal feature for Apple ecosystem users.
- User-Friendly App: The Surfshark iOS app is sleek and intuitive, requiring just a couple of taps to connect. Tech reviewer Matt Ferrell of Undecided praises its simplicity: “I’m just a couple of taps away from browsing securely wherever I am.”
- Top-Tier Security: Surfshark uses industry-standard AES-256 encryption, RAM-only servers, and a strict no-logs policy, ensuring your data stays private.
- Malware and Ad Blocking: The built-in Antivirus and CleanWeb features block ads, trackers, and malicious downloads—perfect for keeping your iPhone safe.
- Innovative Features: Surfshark’s Nexus technology routes traffic through a network of servers for added protection, while Alternative ID creates proxy emails to shield your identity.
- Performance: With 100 server locations and unlimited bandwidth, Surfshark delivers fast speeds for streaming, gaming, or browsing on your iPhone 16 Pro.
Surfshark One Bundle: For all-around protection, Surfshark One includes the VPN, Antivirus, Alternative ID, data breach alerts (Alert), and a private search engine (Search). This bundle is a game-changer for iPhone users seeking comprehensive security.
Pricing:
- Starter: VPN + Alternative ID
- One: Adds Antivirus, Alert, and Search
- One+: Includes Incogni for advanced identity protection
Drawbacks: While Surfshark excels in most areas, its server network (100 countries) is slightly smaller than competitors like NordVPN or ExpressVPN.
Verdict: Surfshark’s combination of affordability, unlimited device support, and feature-rich app makes it the best VPN for iPhone 16 Pro users.
2. Private Internet Access (PIA): The Crypto-Friendly Choice
Overview: PIA is renowned for its privacy-first approach and open-source apps. Priced at €1.99/month for a 2-year plan, it’s a budget-friendly option with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Why It’s Great for iPhone 16 Pro:
- Crypto Support: PIA accepts cryptocurrency payments and is tailored for users who trade crypto on their iPhones, hiding wallet activity from ISPs.
- No-Logs Policy: PIA’s strict no-usage-logs stance has been proven in court, offering peace of mind for privacy-conscious users.
- Advanced Features: Split tunneling, ad blocking, and customizable proxies enhance the iOS experience.
- Ease of Use: The PIA app is simple to set up—just install, connect, and go.
Drawbacks: PIA’s server network size isn’t disclosed, and its speeds (while decent) don’t match Surfshark or NordVPN. It’s also less focused on streaming compared to competitors.
Verdict: PIA is ideal for privacy enthusiasts and crypto traders but may not be the top pick for streaming or multi-device households.
3. IPVanish: Unlimited Connections with Speed
Overview: IPVanish offers a blazing-fast VPN experience starting at $2.19/month for a 2-year plan, with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Why It’s Great for iPhone 16 Pro:
- Unlimited Connections: Like Surfshark, IPVanish supports unmetered device connections, perfect for securing your entire Apple lineup.
- Streaming Performance: With 140+ server locations and 2,400+ servers, IPVanish excels at unblocking Netflix, Disney+, and live sports.
- Speed: Independent tests rank IPVanish among the fastest VPNs, minimizing lag on your iPhone 16 Pro.
- Security: AES-256 encryption and a no-traffic-logs policy keep your data secure.
Drawbacks: IPVanish lacks advanced features like malware protection or ad blockers, and its app is less polished than Surfshark’s.
Verdict: IPVanish is a strong contender for speed and streaming but falls short in extra features compared to Surfshark.
4. NordVPN: The Speed King
Overview: NordVPN is a premium VPN with over 7,300 servers in 118 countries, priced at €3.09/month (down from €11.59) with a 75% discount on a 2-year plan.
Why It’s Great for iPhone 16 Pro:
- Lightning-Fast Speeds: NordVPN boasts 6730+ Mbps speeds (per AV-Test), outpacing competitors like ExpressVPN (2220+ Mbps).
- Threat Protection: Malware scanning, ad blocking, and tracker protection enhance your iPhone’s security.
- Streaming: NordVPN reliably unblocks global content with no bandwidth limits.
- 10 Devices: Secure your iPhone 16 Pro and nine other devices simultaneously.
Drawbacks: NordVPN’s interface can feel cluttered, and its higher price point may deter budget-conscious users.
Verdict: NordVPN is a premium choice for speed and security, though it’s pricier than Surfshark.
5. ExpressVPN: Simplicity and Reliability
Overview: ExpressVPN is a trusted name with servers in 105 countries, starting at a premium price with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Why It’s Great for iPhone 16 Pro:
- Ease of Use: The iOS app is dead simple—one click connects you to ultra-fast servers.
- Security: Best-in-class encryption and leakproofing protect your data.
- Streaming: ExpressVPN bypasses geo-blocks effortlessly, endorsed by personalities like Uncle Roger.
Drawbacks: Limited to 8 devices and more expensive than Surfshark or NordVPN.
Verdict: ExpressVPN is reliable and user-friendly but lacks the value and extra features of Surfshark.
6. Proton VPN: Privacy Champion
Overview: Swiss-based Proton VPN offers a 70% discount (€2.99/month for 2 years) and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Why It’s Great for iPhone 16 Pro:
- Open-Source: Fully audited apps ensure transparency.
- No-Logs: Protected by Swiss privacy laws, Proton keeps no logs.
- Speed Boost: VPN Accelerator offers up to 400% faster connections.
Drawbacks: Fewer servers (8,600+ in 110+ countries) than NordVPN and a basic feature set compared to Surfshark.
Verdict: Proton is a privacy-first option but doesn’t match Surfshark’s versatility.
The Winner: Surfshark
After evaluating these VPNs, Surfshark emerges as the best VPN for iPhone 16 Pro users. Here’s why:
- Value: At €2.19/month, it’s one of the most affordable options with premium features.
- Unlimited Devices: No competitor matches this flexibility, making it perfect for Apple households.
- All-in-One Security: Surfshark One’s Antivirus, Alternative ID, and Alert features go beyond traditional VPNs.
- iOS Experience: The app is tailored for iPhone users, delivering speed, security, and simplicity.
Whether you’re streaming on your iPhone 16 Pro, securing public Wi-Fi, or protecting your privacy, Surfshark has you covered. Ready to get started? Get Surfshark today and enjoy a 30-day money-back guarantee.