5 Best VPNs for TextNow to Use Securely in 2024
Finding the right VPN service to use with TextNow can be challenging, particularly if you've encountered issues with logging in. Many VPNs can trigger protocols that block access to the chatting service, causing frustration. Worse yet, some VPNs have been blocklisted on TextNow's network, meaning you might have to jump through several hoops just to get connected.
I tested over 30 VPN services and identified the top ones that work effectively with TextNow. I focused on security and privacy features, server availability, speed, and unblocking capabilities so you can have a smooth and secure chatting experience no matter where you are. I also ensured they have mobile-friendly apps that are easy to download and use and won’t drain your phone battery much.
ExpressVPN is my best choice for TextNow. It offers high-speed connections and ample reliable servers in the US and Canada. Plus, its military-grade encryption keeps your data secure while chatting. The best part, you can try ExpressVPN risk-free thanks to its 30-day money-back guarantee. Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.
Short on Time? Here Are the Best VPNs for TextNow in 2024
- Editor's ChoiceExpressVPN
Best pick for TextNow, with excellent speeds and automatic obfuscation on every server.Over 7000 people checked out ExpressVPN in the last month - CyberGhost
Intuitive apps make it quick and easy to start chatting on TextNow from anywhere. - Private Internet Access
Massive network with servers in Canada and every US state, but the app is complex. - NordVPN
Enhanced security with Double VPN, but ThreatProtection may cause some issues. - Surfshark
Camouflage Mode for chatting on restrictive networks, but not a privacy-friendly location.
Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
Best VPNs for TextNow — Full Analysis (Updated in 2024)
1. ExpressVPN — Impressive Speeds to Reliably Access TextNow Without Delays
Tested November 2024 Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Best Feature | Excellent speeds and reliable servers for accessing TextNow interruption-free |
Average Speed | 92Mbps (8% slower than my usual connection) |
Server Network | 3,000 servers in 105 countries, including 24 US locations |
Works With | TextNow, Skype, Whatsapp, Line, IMO, Viber, Facetime, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Disney+, and more |
ExpressVPN is a top choice for TextNow users looking for strong security without sacrificing speed. My average download speed decreased by just 8%, which is significantly less than many other VPNs (they can cut speeds by over 50%). My call quality remained smooth with no delays. Plus, ExpressVPN features Lightway protocol, which uses less code and minimizes battery drain on your devices.
ExpressVPN boasts an extensive network of servers, with many reliable options across the US and Canada. While many of the other VPNs I tried were easily detected and blocked by TextNow, I never had that issue with ExpressVPN. In addition, unlike many other VPNs, every server in its network is obfuscated. This means it disguises your VPN traffic to look just like regular internet traffic. This feature is especially useful for unblocking TextNow on networks that tend to block access to the app, such as in some schools and workplaces.
To keep your calls and texts private, military-grade encryption protects your data from eavesdropping and interception. This is particularly important since TextNow doesn’t encrypt messages on its own (unlike other VoIP apps, for example, WhatsApp). Besides, ExpressVPN follows a strict no-logs policy, meaning your communication records, browsing history, and other sensitive information aren't stored or susceptible to exposure.
A slight drawback is the expensive subscriptions. Luckily, ExpressVPN frequently offers generous discounts. Opting for a 12-month plan, I got 82% off and an extra 3 months of service for free, reducing the total cost to just $4.99/month. Plus, thanks to a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try ExpressVPN without risk.
Useful Features
- MediaStreamer. For TextNow users who are traveling or living in regions where the service isn't available, SmartDNS can help by making it seem like your internet traffic is coming from a supported area, such as the US or Canada. Unlike VPNs, SmartDNS doesn’t encrypt traffic, allowing for faster connection speeds and lower latency — this might be beneficial for VoIP services, especially if you have a slow internet connection.
- Threat Manager. While using TextNow, ExpressVPN’s Threat Manager protects your privacy by preventing trackers, malicious apps, and ads from monitoring your chat data enhancing security during your messaging and calling sessions.
- Unlimited bandwidth. Since there are no data caps, you can make voice calls and send messages without worrying about exceeding VPN data limits, allowing for consistent call quality and reliable messaging with TextNow.
- Router app. By installing ExpressVPN on your router, you can secure all devices in your home with a single setup. This is ideal for households and small offices using TextNow on multiple devices, ensuring consistent protection and access.
2. CyberGhost — User-Friendly Apps to Quickly Unblock TextNow Abroad
Best Feature | Simple and snappy user interface, ideal for new VPN users |
Average Speed | 87Mbps (13% slower than my usual connection) |
Server Network | 11,690 servers in 100 countries, including 11 US locations |
Works With | TextNow, Skype, Whatsapp, Line, IMO, Viber, Facetime, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Disney+, and more |
CyberGhost features a straightforward user interface that simplifies connecting to TextNow from any location. You can save the servers you find to be most reliable for TextNow by marking them with a star, letting you easily access them later via the "Favorites" tab. Additionally, I set CyberGhost to automatically connect to a US server whenever I open TextNow, streamlining the process and saving time.
While CyberGhost may not reach the speeds of ExpressVPN, it still offers fast connections. My team spread across the US, Canada, the UK, and Poland, observed only a 10% to 13% reduction in speed during our tests. The VPN's unlimited bandwidth also facilitates unrestricted high-quality voice calls.
CyberGhost encrypts your internet traffic, which prevents ISPs from detecting and throttling your bandwidth based on your activity. This means you can avoid any ISP-imposed slowdowns that might affect your ability to make clear calls or send messages quickly.
Subscribing to CyberGhost on a monthly plan is quite expensive and only comes with a short 14-day refund period. However, long-term subscriptions are more affordable, starting at just $2.03/month. They also come with an extended money-back guarantee, letting you try CyberGhost for free for 45 days.
Useful Features
- No-logs policy. CyberGhost maintains a stringent no-logs policy that has been validated through multiple independent audits, so no third party can obtain your private data.
- Content Blocker. TextNow is a free phone app supported by ads, so it's natural to expect some tracking and targeted advertising. CyberGhost steps up with a Content Blocker feature that effectively blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites. This not only boosts the security of your TextNow use but also speeds it up, making your experience smoother and safer.
- Quarterly transparency reports. These reports show how CyberGhost deals with data requests and legal issues, proving that your information is handled responsibly. This transparency helps build trust, giving TextNow users peace of mind that their communications are secure.
3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — A Massive Network of US and Canada Servers to Reliably Use TextNow
Best Feature | A large server network to quickly connect to TextNow anywhere |
Average Speed | 82Mbps (18% slower than my usual connection) |
Server Network | 29,650 servers in 91 countries, including 53 US locations |
Works With | TextNow, Skype, Whatsapp, Line, IMO, Viber, Facetime, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Disney+, and more |
PIA's vast server network, with thousands of IP options, lets you reliably access TextNow. With so many servers to choose from, it’s unlikely you ever run into network congestion. During my tests of 15 different US server locations, all worked flawlessly with TextNow. You can also check the latency of each US and Canada server to choose the fastest one for your location (the lower, the better).
This VPN is highly customizable. You can choose your encryption level and security protocols according to your needs. For instance, AES 128-bit encryption and WireGuard give you faster speeds for smooth calls, while AES 256-bit and OpenVPN protocols are recommended for enhanced security while texting and browsing the web.
For newcomers, PIA's extensive settings might seem daunting due to its numerous toggles and options. However, the default settings are optimized for speed, making it immediately usable for TextNow without needing adjustments.
You can get PIA for as low as $2.03/month. Each plan comes with a trustworthy 30-day money-back guarantee, meaning you can test the VPN for free.
Useful Features
- Small packets. You can use this feature when you're on unstable mobile networks. This will enhance your connection stability and help minimize mobile data consumption.
- Unlimited simultaneous connections. With PIA, a single subscription allows you to connect multiple devices simultaneously. This feature is particularly useful for families or individuals with multiple devices who want to maintain secure access to TextNow.
- Split tunneling. PIA’s split tunneling feature allows you to choose which apps use the VPN and which don’t. This can be especially useful with TextNow, as it lets you route your TextNow app traffic through the VPN while other apps connect to the internet directly, optimizing your device’s performance and connectivity.
4. NordVPN — Double VPN to Protect Your TextNow Connection and Maintain Data Privacy
Best Feature | Double VPN feature to prevent tracking your TextNow communication |
Average Speed | 80Mbps (20% slower than my usual connection) |
Server Network | 6,700 servers in 111 countries, including 17 US locations |
Works With | TextNow, Skype, Whatsapp, Line, IMO, Viber, Facetime, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Disney+, and more |
NordVPN's Double VPN feature enhances your privacy by routing your traffic through 2 servers, complicating any attempt to trace your online activities. This feature, along with NordVPN’s obfuscated servers, ensures your TextNow conversations remain private, especially on restrictive networks. Plus, NordVPN is generally hard to detect — TextNow never placed restrictions on my account even when I routed my connection through two VPN servers. But bear in mind it might slow down your speeds (due to double encryption), so only use it on stable and fast networks.
NordVPN's intuitive desktop and mobile apps make it easy to use for TextNow. No matter which operating system you use, you can find a specific server using an interactive map or quickly connect to the nearest server for fast access. The VPN is also quick to download — I set it up on my phone in just 2 minutes.
Threat Protection (when enabled) blocks ads, malware, and trackers, enhancing your TextNow experience by increasing security, reducing distractions, and improving app performance. Initially, I encountered issues with it blocking access to mainstream sites like YouTube. But switching to the Lite version of Threat Protection resolved these problems.
The VPN’s subscriptions are reasonably priced, starting at just $2.99/month. And since NordVPN is backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can test it for free.
Useful Features
- NordLynx protocol. This in-house protocol optimizes both speed and security, which is ideal for fast and stable TextNow calls.
- Kill switch. If your VPN connection drops unexpectedly, your internet access is instantly cut off. This prevents any of your TextNow calls or messages from being sent over an unsecured connection, safeguarding your private data.
5. Surfshark — NoBorders and Camouflage Modes to Safely Use TextNow on Restrictive Networks
Best Feature | NordVPN's Camouflage and NoBorders modes enable seamless use of TextNow on the stringent networks |
Average Speed | 77Mbps (23% slower than my usual connection) |
Server Network | 3,200 servers in 100 countries, including 22 US locations |
Works With | TextNow, Skype, Whatsapp, Line, IMO, Viber, Facetime, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Disney+, and more |
Surfshark's NoBorders mode is perfect for navigating restricted networks often found in certain countries or institutions, ensuring you can always access TextNow. It automatically detects when you're on a censored network and suggests the best servers for optimal access. Plus, the Camouflage feature disguises your VPN traffic to look like regular internet traffic, keeping your VPN use hidden while you communicate via TextNow.
Similar to PIA, Surfshark supports unlimited simultaneous connections across various devices. I noticed no decrease in speed when making calls on TextNow, even though I connected 7 devices at once.
One concern is Surfshark’s location in the Netherlands, part of the 9 Eyes Alliance (an international government surveillance network). However, the VPN sticks to a strict no-logs policy, so there's nothing to hand over even if legally requested.
Surfshark offers a long-term subscription at a competitive price of only $1.99/month. The service also provides a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it for free.
Useful Features
- Antivirus. Since TextNow doesn’t come with built-in encryption or advanced security features, it's wise to regularly run antivirus scans. Surfshark’s antivirus can help detect and remove any threats that might compromise your device while using apps like TextNow.
- Dedicated IP. For a small fee, Surfshark provides a unique US or Canada IP that isn't shared with other VPN subscribers. This reduces the chance of TextNow blocking you due to a shared IP.
Quick Comparison Table: TextNow VPN Features
If you're deciding which VPN service to use with TextNow, check the comparison table below. It focuses on server coverage and speeds — key factors for effectively using TextNow from any location. This table will guide you in choosing the VPN that best fits your needs for reliable and fast connectivity.
Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
Tips on Choosing the Best VPN for TextNow
When choosing the best VPN for TextNow, consider the following tips to ensure optimal performance and security:
- Server coverage and location. Select a VPN with plenty of servers in Canada and the US. This allows you to easily access TextNow from anywhere.
- Speed and reliability. Look for a VPN known for its high speeds and stability. Since TextNow involves voice communication, a fast and reliable VPN minimizes lag, ensuring clear calls and messages on VoIP services. In addition, your VPN needs to be consistently able to remain undetected by TextNow, allowing you to use the service without running into annoying restrictions.
- Strong security features. Choose a VPN with robust security features such as AES 256-bit encryption, a no-logs policy, IP/DNS leak protection, and a kill switch.
- Ease of use. Opt for a user-friendly VPN, especially if you are not tech-savvy. A straightforward interface with simple connectivity options will make it easier to use TextNow anywhere without hassle.
- Compatibility. Look for a VPN service that’s compatible with the device you intend to use for TextNow. Whether it's a smartphone or tablet, compatibility prevents technical issues and ensures seamless operation.
- Customer support. Good customer service is vital. A VPN that offers 24/7 live chat or email support can be invaluable if you encounter issues while setting up or using the service with TextNow.
- Trustworthy money-back guarantee. I verified that these VPNs offer trustworthy refund policies, so you can test how they work with TextNow without risking your money.
Quick Guide: How to Use a VPN for TextNow in 3 Easy Steps
- Download a VPN. ExpressVPN is highly recommended for its fast speeds and reliable servers, making it ideal for accessing TextNow securely from any location. It comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can test ExpressVPN risk-free.
- Connect to a server. For optimal performance with TextNow, connect to a server in Canada or the United States where TextNow is fully supported.
- Start messaging. Once connected, start using TextNow for secure and reliable calls and messages.
Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.
FAQs on VPNs for TextNow
Which country is TextNow available in?
TextNow is available in the United States and Canada, where it offers full functionality, including calling and messaging services. To access the service abroad, you need a reliable VPN service.
However, please note that using TextNow from outside the US and Canada might be against its T&Cs. If you access TextNow from other countries, you do so on your own initiative and must comply with local laws.
How do you turn off a VPN on TextNow?
To turn off a VPN while using TextNow, you typically need to go into the VPN app’s settings and select the option to disconnect or turn off the VPN. Some VPN services can be automated to turn off after you are done using TextNow.
Why is TextNow not working with my VPN?
If TextNow isn't working with your VPN, it could be due to the VPN being blocked by TextNow or an issue with the VPN server. To avoid such issues in the future, consider getting a trustworthy VPN that’s proven to work with TextNow. You can also connect to another VPN server, delete your browser’s cache and cookies, check for leaks, and, as a last resort, contact customer service.
Is it safe to use TextNow without a VPN?
It’s not recommended. TextNow's privacy policy reveals that it collects extensive user data, including contact, demographic, and transactional information, as well as content from messages and other user-generated data. A premium VPN comes with blockers that help to minimize third-party tracking.
Does TextNow offer a VPN service?
No, it does not. TextNow doesn’t provide its own VPN service, so if you’re looking to secure your TextNow communications, you can check out the VPNs from this list. They’re all proven to work with the messenger and offer robust security.
Does TextNow ban VPNs?
TextNow doesn't specifically ban VPNs, but it may implement measures to restrict their use to ensure the service is accessed within intended geographic regions. Users attempting to access TextNow via a VPN should be aware that this could affect their ability to use the service, depending on policy changes. If you are looking for secure TextNow access, try ExpressVPN.
How can I get a USA number for free?
You can get a free USA number using apps like TextNow or Google Voice. Both services offer a free phone number when you sign up, which you can use for calls, texts, and voicemail within the US. Just download the app, create an account, and follow the instructions to select your number. Use a VPN to keep your phone calls private.
What are the TextNow available area codes?
TextNow offers a wide range of area codes across the United States and Canada. When you sign up, you can select an available area code based on your preference or location. If a specific area code isn't available, TextNow will suggest the closest alternatives for you to choose from. Don’t forget to protect your calls with a VPN — PIA has servers in every US state and many locations in Canada.
Can I use a free VPN with TextNow?
Yes, but it’s not recommended. Most free VPNs suffer from slow speeds, unreliable connections, and limited bandwidth, which can hinder your experience with TextNow. It's wiser to opt for a reputable, affordable, premium VPN, ensuring better reliability and security without compromising your data privacy or connection quality.
Get the Best VPN for TextNow
The right VPN for TextNow provides secure, unrestricted communication and smooth compatibility with the app. My top VPN picks stand out for their robust encryption, high speeds, and broad server networks, all optimized for seamless TextNow integration across various devices.
My best choice is ExpressVPN. Known for its impressive speeds and reliable server network, ExpressVPN facilitates smooth and secure access to TextNow from any location. Additionally, the 30-day money-back guarantee allows you to test ExpressVPN without any risk.
To summarize, these are the best VPNs for TextNow...
Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
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