Grindr is the world’s leading social networking and dating app for the LGBTQ community. Despite its popularity, Grindr isn’t available everywhere. It’s blocked in many countries that have strict internet censorship and/or anti-LGTBQ laws. If you want to securely access Grindr without exposing your IP address or location, then you need a VPN (short for Virtual Private Network).
So what is a VPN for Grindr and how can it help? A VPN is a service through which you can connect your phone to a server in another country. In doing so, your internet traffic is encrypted and secured from prying eyes. You’re assigned a new, temporary IP address that makes it look as if you’re browsing from another location. This allows you to unblock Grindr from anywhere and use it with a higher level of security and privacy.
Best VPNs for Grindr:
- NordVPN: The best VPN for Grindr. Large server network (5,000+ in 60 countries). Fast and also works well with Netflix. Specialty Double VPN servers and 24/7 support. TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for Grindr.
- Surfshark: Best value VPN for Grindr. Provides servers in 100 countries and also works with 30+ Netflix libraries. Unlimited simultaneous connections and has MultiHop servers.
- ExpressVPN: Servers in 105 countries for easy access to Grindr. Unlimited bandwidth and strong security with military-grade encryption. Includes 24-hour live chat support.
- CyberGhost: Very fast server speeds for browsing and streaming. Vast server network (10,000+ servers) for accessing Grindr. Use it to connect up to seven devices at once.
- IPVanish: One of the fastest VPNs we’ve tested. Works well with Grindr and even Netflix US. Secure as many devices as you like simultaneously. Operates a zero-logs policy.
- PrivateVPN: Strong unblocking (use it with Grindr as well as popular streaming platforms). Ability to bypass internet censorship such as in China. True no-logs policy.
Many VPNs claim to protect your privacy and offer a fast, reliable connection but most (especially free VPNs) limit your connection speed or leak information.
We regularly test the top 70 VPNs for security and speed and this list only includes VPNs which are fast, reliable and are highly rated for privacy and security. Plus we only recommend VPNs which offer a full-money back guarantee allowing you to try them risk free.
WANT TO TRY THE TOP VPN RISK FREE?
NordVPN is offering a fully featured risk-free 30-day trial if you sign up at this page. You can use the VPN rated #1 for Grindr with no restrictions for a month. This is perfect if you’re traveling to a country with strict online censorship or anti-LGBTQ laws.
There are no hidden terms—just contact support within 30 days if you decide NordVPN isn't right for you and you'll get a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here.
Best VPNs for Grindr – Our in-depth analysis
We’ve tested and compared the most important features of the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for Grindr
No value | NordVPN | Surfshark | ExpressVPN | CyberGhost | IPVanish | PrivateVPN |
Website | NordVPN.com | Surfshark.com | ExpressVPN.com | Cyberghost.com | IPVanish.com | PrivateVPN.com | Total number of servers | 6,000+ | 3,200 | Undisclosed | 11,000+ | 2,200+ | 200+ | Avg Speed (Mbps) | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 74 Mbps | Simultaneous Connections | 10 | Unlimited | 8 | 7 | Unlimited | 10 | Devices Supported | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVs, Routers | Windows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, Android | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Best deal (per month) | $3.09 Up to 73% off 2 year plans + 3 EXTRA months | $2.19 Save 86% on a 2 year Starter plan + 3 months free | $6.67 SAVE: 49% + 3 months free | $2.19 SAVE 83% on the 2 year plan + 2 months free! | $2.19 SAVE 83% on the 2 yr plan | $2.00 Save 85% on a one year plan + 24-months free |
Our criteria for Grindr VPNs
There are hundreds of VPNs to choose from. The best VPNs for Grindr meet all of the following criteria:
- Servers in countries in which Grindr is available
- Fast, unthrottled connections
- Secure with a high level of encryption
- Absolutely no identifying logs of users
- 24/7 live chat and email support
- Money-back guarantee so you can try it out risk-free
Best VPNs for Grindr
Here’s our list of the best VPNs for Grindr:
1. NordVPN
Oct 2024 works with grindrTested Oct 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- FireTV
Website: www.NordVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
NordVPN stands out as being very strong in all areas, be it server locations, speed, unblocking, or security. Its network is made up of well over 5,000 servers in 60 countries. These include many countries in which Grindr is available such as the US and UK. Not only does NordVPN work well with Grindr, you can also use it with popular streaming services such as Netflix. As one of the fastest VPNs available, NordVPN is suitable for streaming.
With NordVPN, you can securely access Grindr thanks to its use of high-end encryption. Other security features include a kill switch and DNS and IPv6 leak protection. If that’s not enough, you can connect to NordVPN’s Double VPN or Onion Over VPN servers for an extra layer of encryption. NordVPN operates a no-logs policy so you don’t need to worry about your data being shared with anyone. 24/7 live chat support is available.
To access NordVPN servers, download and install an app for Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, or Amazon Fire TV. Alternatively, you can use browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, or Edge. While NordVPN is compatible with select routers, manual configuration is required.
Pros:
- Generous server network of 5,000+ servers in 60 countries
- Works with Grindr as well as popular streaming services
- Very fast server speeds so you can stream lag-free
- Includes specialty servers such as P2P and Onion Over VPN
- Live chat and email support is available 24 hours a day
- Secure up to six of your devices at the same time
Cons:
- Expensive if you only want a single month subscription
Our score:
BEST VPN FOR GRINDR:NordVPN is our #1 choice. Large server network and high-speed connections. Works with Grindr, Netflix, and more. Very strong security with option of connecting to Double VPN servers. 24/7 support included. You can try NordVPN risk-free thanks to its 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full NordVPN review.
2. Surfshark
works with grindrTested Oct 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.Surfshark.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Surfshark has a rapidly growing network of 3,000+ servers that now covers 100 countries in all. You shouldn’t have any issues accessing Grindr while traveling abroad. Besides Grindr, it works with 30+ libraries and is compatible with other streaming platforms. Server speeds are impressive and more than fast enough for any bandwidth-intensive activities, be it streaming, torrenting, or online gaming.
Surfshark doesn’t limit the number of devices you can connect at once. It’s a great choice for sharing with family or friends in your household. You can expect DNS and IPv6 leak protection, a kill switch, a malware blocker, and MultiHop servers. Surfshark adheres to a no-logs policy to further safeguard your privacy.
Surfshark offers apps for desktop (Windows, Mac, and Linux) and mobile (Android and iOS). You can also find an Amazon Fire TV app as well as Chrome, Firefox, and Edge browser extensions. Manual setup allows you to configure a connection with compatible wifi routers.
Pros:
- Provides servers in 100 countries so you can easily access Grindr
- Works with more than 30 different Netflix libraries
- Connect all of your devices at the same time
- MultiHop servers can provide an extra layer of security
- 24-hour support available via live chat and email
Cons:
- Some features only included with a more expensive subscription tier
BEST BUDGET OPTION:Surfshark has 3,000+ servers in 100 countries. Combine this with its impressive connection speeds and you’ve got a VPN that’s ideal for unblocking and streaming. Unlimited simultaneous connections and MultiHop servers. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full Surfshark review.
3. ExpressVPN
works with grindrTested Oct 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.ExpressVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ExpressVPN servers cover more countries than most VPNs (105 in all). This makes it very easy to access Grindr regardless of your physical location. You’ll have more than 3,000 servers to choose from and you can expect consistent connections thanks to ExpressVPN’s fast Lightway protocol and unlimited bandwidth. It works with Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and many other streaming services, plus torrenting and online gaming.
Grindr isn’t available in all countries, particularly those with anti-LGTBQ laws. ExpressVPN’s security is all the more essential as a result. It uses 256-bit AES encryption so your internet traffic can’t be read by hackers or snoopers. Further security features include DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leak protection as well as a kill switch. ExpressVPN doesn’t keep identifiable logs of its users. Although it’s very easy to use, it has 24-hour live chat support should you need it.
ExpressVPN offers apps for all of the following: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, and Amazon Fire TV. Browser extensions are offered for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. Its custom firmware lets you set up the VPN on compatible routers.
Pros:
- Provides servers in 105 countries so you can securely access Grindr
- Good speeds as well as unlimited bandwidth for non-stop streaming
- Use it to secure up to eight of your devices simultaneously
- Excellent support available around the clock
- Doesn’t keep any identifying logs of its users
Cons:
- One of the more expensive VPNs on the market
Our score:
PRIVACY PROTECTION:ExpressVPN has servers in 105 countries and doesn’t throttle your bandwidth. Works well with Grindr and also securely accesses multiple Netflix libraries. Very strong encryption and no identifying logs. 24/7 support. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full ExpressVPN review.
4. CyberGhost
works with grindrTested Oct 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.Cyberghost.com
Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS
CyberGhost is a great option for bypassing content restrictions. Its server network is made up of more than 10,000 servers in 100 countries. In particular, there are over 1,800 servers across the US and Canada, two countries in which Grindr is available. With this VPN, we recorded an average download speed of 296 Mbps, which is more than fast enough for streaming. Indeed, CyberGhost works well with Netflix US in particular.
Strong encryption, DNS leak protection, and an automatic kill switch secure your access to Grindr. If you’re on Windows, you can benefit from CyberGhost’s security suite, which includes an antivirus. Like all quality VPNs that believe in protecting user privacy, it doesn’t keep identifying logs. With just one CyberGhost account, you can secure up to seven of your devices at the same time.
You can access CyberGhost’s vast server network via its apps for Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, and Amazon Fire TV. It makes browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox. With manual setup, you can even use this VPN on select wireless routers.
Pros:
- Huge network of more than 10,000 servers in 100 countries
- Very fast server speeds so you can stream lag and buffer-free
- Works not only with Grindr but also with Netflix US
- Use it to secure up to seven of your devices at once
- Lots of security features including a Windows antivirus
Cons:
- Unable to bypass restrictions in China and the UAE
- Keeps some connection logs (but nothing identifying)
Our score:
VAST SERVER NETWORK:CyberGhost has 10,000+ servers in 100 countries so you can easily access Grindr as well as streaming services such as Netflix US. Very fast server speeds and allows up to seven simultaneous connections. 45-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full CyberGhost review.
5. IPVanish
works with grindrTested Oct 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.IPVanish.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
IPVanish uses the WireGuard protocol and now ranks among the fastest VPNs you can use. As such, you’ll have no trouble browsing Grindr or streaming the likes of Netflix US. You get access to over 2,000 servers and 40,000 IP addresses. It has a particularly heavy US presence with servers in nearly two dozen cities. While most VPNs let you connect up to a handful of devices at once, IPVanish allows unlimited simultaneous connections per account.
An IPVanish subscription includes 24-hour access to live chat and email support. 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection all ensure your data can’t be compromised. The no-logs policy of IPVanish has been independently audited and, unlike most VPNs on the market, IPVanish owns and operates all of its servers.
IPVanish apps can be downloaded and installed for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Amazon Fire TV. To use this VPN with Linux and VPN-compatible routers, you’ll need to manually configure the connection.
Pros:
- One of the fastest VPNs for streaming
- Bypass restrictions of Grindr as well as Netflix US
- No limit to the number of devices you can connect at the same time
- Owns and operates all of its servers
Cons:
- Headquartered in the US which is a Five Eyes member
- Doesn’t offer any anonymous payment methods
Our score:
HIGH-SPEED CONNECTIONS:IPVanish stands out for its very fast speeds and unlimited simultaneous connections. Servers in nearly two dozen cities for unblocking Grindr. Zero-logs VPN (independently audited) with secure encryption. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full IPVanish review.
6. PrivateVPN
works with grindrTested Oct 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.PrivateVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
PrivateVPN has proven to be highly reliable when it comes to bypassing content restrictions. Its Stealth VPN feature helps you bypass strict internet censorship restrictions, and in turn access Grindr anywhere in the world. It works with Netflix, BBC iPlayer, or Disney+. PrivateVPN has a smaller server network that covers 60 countries. Users get unlimited bandwidth, but it is the slowest VPN on this list.
You can contact PrivateVPN via live chat and email support, and it offers free remote help and installation. This VPN operates a no-logs policy–it doesn’t even keep connection logs. Data is secured with 256-bit AES encryption. DNS leak protection, and a kill switch. PrivateVPN now lets users connect up to 10 of their devices via a single account.
Access PrivateVPN servers with its apps for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Amazon Fire TV. It’s possible to manually configure a connection with Linux and routers (PrivateVPN provides manual setup instructions for this).
Pros:
- Very strong unblocker of content, be it Grindr or streaming services
- Stealth VPN feature so you can bypass internet censorship
- Free remote help and installation (and live chat and email support)
- Allows up to 10 simultaneous connections per account
Cons:
- Not quite as fast as other VPNs we’ve listed
- Smaller network of just over 200 servers
Our score:
STRONG UNBLOCKING:PrivateVPN has a stealth VPN feature for bypassing censorship of Grindr. Works with many streaming services. Easy-to-use apps and consistent PrivateVPN has connections. Secure up to 10 devices at once. Free remote help. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full PrivateVPN review.
VPN testing methodology: how we found the best VPNs for Grindr
Finding the best VPNs for Grindr takes more than just looking for those that can unblock the social network and dating app. We assess each VPN’s server speeds so that you can browse without interruption, as well as its security so you can do so safely. Below, we outline our methodology:
- Servers worldwide: The good news is that Grindr isn’t too difficult to access because it’s available in most countries. As long as you use a VPN with servers in countries worldwide, you should be able to use Grindr anywhere. Most of the VPNs we’ve covered offer thousands of servers across several dozen countries.
- Fast connections: While fast speeds aren’t needed for Grindr, they do help. This is particularly the case for streaming videos or making video calls on the site or app. Fortunately, most of the VPNs covered in this post make our list of the fastest VPNs available. All offer unlimited bandwidth so you shouldn’t suffer performance issues.
- Bypasses blocks: Grindr is far from the only site that’s censored in countries such as China, Iran, and Saudi Arabia. And then there’s the question of the many websites and services that are blocked for copyright and licensing reasons. We test each VPN against a variety of restricted online content to find VPNs that let you browse with freedom.
- Strong security: Security is particularly important when you’re trying to access Grindr from a country in which it has been censored. There may be consequences for using certain websites and services in such countries. A VPN encrypts your data so that your online activity can’t be seen by anyone — not even your ISP.
- Privacy protection: Aside from encryption, a VPN should protect your privacy with a no-logs policy. Some VPNs log your data and share it with third parties. This can be dangerous, particularly if you’re using Grindr in a country in which it’s been banned. That’s why we’ve looked at 140 VPN logging policies to find those that don’t keep any identifying logs of users.
- Beginner-friendly: Whether this is your first time using a VPN or not, a VPN should make it quick and easy to get started and connect to a server. After all, you want to be able to use Grindr, not spend precious free time trying to work out how to use it. Expect live chat, email support and thorough documentation.
- Value for money: Last but not least, a VPN should be affordable with options to suit all budgets. Most VPNs offer monthly and annual subscriptions (with multi-year deals available in some cases). In this post, you can get an even better deal on the best VPNs for Grindr through our discount links. The above VPNs come with money-back guarantees so you can try them out risk-free.
Our VPN testing methodology post goes into greater detail regarding our process for analyzing a VPN in areas including speed, unblocking, and security.
How to access Grindr from anywhere with a VPN
Regardless of which of the best VPNs for Grindr you use, the process of getting set up and accessing Grindr is the same. All you need to do is follow the simple step-by-step instructions below and you’ll be all set.
Here’s how to use Grindr with a VPN:
- To get started, sign up with one of the best VPNs for Grindr. As you can see from our reviews, we particularly recommend NordVPN.
- Download the VPN app, making sure you’re installing the correct version for your streaming device’s operating system.
- Open the VPN app, log in if required, and connect to a server in a country in which Grindr is available (such as the USA).
- You should now be able to access Grindr without restriction regardless of your location.
- If Grindr is still blocked then you should first clear your cookies. Otherwise, try connecting to a different server to change your IP address.
Can I use a free VPN to access Grindr?
Some free VPNs may work with Grindr, although we don’t recommend you use them for a number of reasons. First and foremost, your security and privacy is far from guaranteed when you use a free VPN service. Your data may not be properly encrypted and could be leaked as a result. Free VPNs sometimes log browsing data and share it with third parties as well. Of course, this is all very risky, particularly if you’re in a country that’s not LGBTQ-friendly.
Aside from the above concerns, free VPNs tend to suffer from performance issues, largely due to a lack of servers as well as bandwidth throttling. So if you want to stream video or make video calls on Grindr, a free VPN will cause lag and buffering. First-time VPN users are best off with a quality paid VPN because free VPNs don’t tend to offer customer support.
VPNs for Grindr: FAQs
Why do I need a VPN for Grindr?
Using a VPN for Grindr can provide several benefits:
- Privacy and anonymity: A VPN hides your real IP address. This improves your online privacy and helps keep browsing activities anonymous. Needless to say, this can be important when you’re using dating apps such as Grindr where privacy may be a concern.
- Security on public networks: If you’re accessing Grindr via public wifi networks then your data is at risk of being exposed to hackers and snoopers. A VPN encrypts your data, protecting you from threats.
- Bypass censorship: Some countries restrict access to Grindr. A VPN helps you bypass these restrictions by allowing you to connect to a server in a location in which Grindr is available.
- Avoid surveillance: Due to the fact that a VPN encrypts your data and hides your IP address, you can use Grindr without fear of being monitored, be it by hackers or your ISP (or by extension the government).
Is it legal to use a VPN to access Grindr?
The legality of using a VPN to access Grindr really depends on the country in which you’re located, as well as its respective laws. Fortunately, it’s legal to use a VPN in most countries. People use them for various reasons, be it for security and privacy or to bypass geographic restrictions.
Some countries, such as China, Iran, and Russia, have banned certain VPNs. And then there are the countries that have banned Grindr for cultural or religious reasons such as Saudi Arabia and Turkey. Using a VPN to access Grindr in these countries carries some risk as it could lead to legal consequences.
Note: We are not lawyers and nothing in this article should be taken as legal advice.
Will a VPN slow my internet connection?
A VPN encrypts your data. This process plus the distance the data has to travel to the VPN server can slow your internet connection to an extent. There are other factors to consider too, such as the server load and the base speed of your own internet connection.
By using one of the fastest VPNs available and connecting to a server closer to your physical location, you have much better odds of good speeds. For this reason, we don’t recommend you use free VPN services. They offer very few server locations and tend to throttle bandwidth.
Where is Grindr blocked?
Grindr is blocked or restricted in several countries. While a VPN can provide a layer of security and privacy, using the app in these countries while connected to one may still result in legal consequences. It’s important to prioritize your safety by complying with local laws and customs when using Grindr or similar apps in certain countries.
Here’s a list of countries which have blocked or restricted Grindr:
- China
- Cuba
- Indonesia
- Jordan
- Lebanon
- North Korea
- Pakistan
- Qatar
- Saudi Arabia
- Sudan
- Syria
- Turkey
- United Arab Emirates