Using a VPN with 5G on an iPhone can offer benefits such as enhanced security and the ability to bypass restrictions, but it may also lead to increased data consumption and potentially slower connection speeds[4]. While VPNs work on 4G and 5G networks, their impact on performance can vary[4].
A VPN might help increase internet speed in certain situations, such as when your ISP (Internet Service Provider) is throttling your bandwidth[9]. By shielding your activity, a VPN can prevent your ISP from monitoring your behavior and applying bandwidth throttling specifically to you[9]. However, if the ISP is throttling the entire network, a VPN will not be able to bypass it[9].
However, VPNs can sometimes slow down your 5G connection, especially during data-intensive activities like streaming videos or playing games[4]. It has been observed that using a VPN on mobile devices can increase latency and reduce upload and download speeds[3]. Some tests have indicated that VPNs may disconnect and reconnect more frequently on mobile devices compared to desktop computers[3]. To optimize VPN performance on 4G/5G, consider using appropriate protocols, connecting to the nearest server, and enabling data compression[4].
Citations:[1] https://nordvpn.com/blog/does-vpn-drain-battery/
[2] https://surfshark.com/blog/does-vpn-work-on-cellular-data
[3] https://www.pcmag.com/picks/the-best-iphone-vpns
[4] https://techjury.net/blog/are-vpns-good-for-4g-and-5g-connections/
[5] https://discussions.apple.com/thread/253325752
[6] https://www.reddit.com/r/VPN/comments/n8x2kv/who_here_uses_vpn_when_on_mobile_data/
[7] https://www.reddit.com/r/iphone/comments/1akywns/5g_and_wifi_is_too_slow_compared_to_android_phone/
[8] https://support.apple.com/guide/deployment/vpn-settings-overview-dep2d2adb35d/web
[9] https://nordvpn.com/blog/does-vpn-slow-down-internet/