7 Best VPNs With Split Tunneling App and URL Based Options for 2026

7 best vpns with split tunneling app and url based options: split tunneling lets you decide which apps or URLs go through the VPN and which stay on your regular connection, giving you control over speed, access, and security. Think of it as a smart gatekeeper for your online traffic. Here’s a quick guide to what you’ll get in this video/article:

Quick facts: Split tunneling is supported by most major VPNs, but the level of control varies app-based, URL-based, or both.
Why it matters: You can protect sensitive apps and keep streaming or gaming fast by routing them outside the VPN when needed.
How we’ll cover it: a practical, user-friendly breakdown with real-world examples, tables for fast comparisons, step-by-step setup tips, and a FAQ with the most common questions.
Useful URLs and Resources un clickable text, just the text
Apple Website – apple.com
Artificial Intelligence Wikipedia – en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artificial_intelligence
VPN Statistics – worldvpnstats.org
Privacy News – privacynews.org
Tech Support Forum – forums.techsupport.com

Table of Contents

What is split tunneling and why should you care?

Split tunneling allows you to choose which traffic goes through the VPN and which doesn’t. This is super handy if:

You want to access geo-restricted content while keeping your normal connection for local browsing.
You’re gaming or streaming and don’t want the VPN to slow you down.
You’re protecting sensitive apps banking, email while leaving bulk traffic unencrypted to save resources.

Common types:

App-based split tunneling: You pick specific apps to route through the VPN.
URL-based split tunneling: You specify websites or domains that should bypass or use the VPN.
System-wide: Everything goes through the VPN not technically split tunneling, but sometimes people search for it in this space.

How we evaluated the “best” VPNs for split tunneling

We looked at:

Reliability of split tunneling consistency across apps and URLs
Granularity per-app vs per-URL control
Platform support Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux
Speed impact and server network
Security features kill switch, DNS leak protection, protocol options
Privacy stance no-logs policy, jurisdiction
Price and value free trials, money-back guarantees
Real-user feedback and up-to-date data as of 2026

Top picks for 7 best vpns with split tunneling app and url based options

1 NordVPN

Split tunneling style: App-based and URL-based on desktop apps; some URL rules can be configured through advanced settings.
Best for: Balanced security, vast server network, reliable app controls.
Key features:
- Kill switch and DNS leak protection
- Obfuscated servers for restricted networks
- Detailed per-app routing on Windows and macOS
Pros: Strong privacy stance, broad platform support, good for simultaneous connections.
Cons: Speed can vary by server; occasional app UI quirks.
Setup tip: In Windows, go to Settings > Split Tunneling to pick apps; for URL rules, check Advanced Settings and create custom routing rules.

2 ExpressVPN

Split tunneling style: App-based on Windows and Android; URL-based routing available via manual DNS or router-level rules in some setups.
Best for: Easy-to-use interface, strong security, reliable streaming access.
Key features:
- Lightway protocol for fast speeds
- Kill switch, leak protection
- 3,000+ servers in 90+ locations
Pros: Very beginner-friendly, consistent performance, strong privacy policy.
Cons: Slightly higher price point.
Setup tip: Use App Split Tunneling to select games or banking apps; for URLs, configure compatible browser or router rules if your device supports it.

3 Surfshark

Split tunneling style: App-based with URL-based routing on desktop; per-site routing available in some builds.
Best for: Value, unlimited devices, flexible routing options.
Key features:
- CleanWeb ad and malware blocking
- Kill switch and DNS protection
- Unlimited devices
Pros: Great price for families or households, straightforward setup.
Cons: Some servers show variable performance.
Setup tip: On Windows, use Split Tunneling in the VPN app; for URLs, create site-based rules where supported.

4 CyberGhost

Split tunneling style: App-based split tunneling on Windows and Android; URL-based controls via profile rules.
Best for: User-friendly profiles, specialized servers for streaming and torrenting.
Key features:
- No-logs policy, robust privacy
- Wide server network
- Profile-based routing makes setup simple
Pros: Easy for beginners, solid streaming performance.
Cons: Fewer advanced networking options than some rivals.
Setup tip: Choose a streaming profile and add apps you want to route differently; use URL rules in the desktop app where available.

5 Private Internet Access PIA

Split tunneling style: App-based split tunneling with per-URL rules in newer builds on desktop.
Best for: Advanced users who want granular control and strong customization.
Key features:
- Extensive server list
- Strong customization options
- DNS leak protection and kill switch
Pros: Flexible and powerful, good for tech-savvy users.
Cons: Privacy policy has raised questions in the past; depends on jurisdiction.
Setup tip: In the app, go to Settings > Split Tunneling to select apps; check per-URL rules if your build supports it.

6 Proton VPN

Split tunneling style: App-based split tunneling on Windows/macOS; URL-based options via advanced features and router setups.
Best for: Strong privacy orientation, secure protocol options, transparent operations.
Key features:
- Secure Core for extra privacy
- Strong encryption and no-logs posture
- DNS and IP leak protection
Pros: Excellent security defaults, good for privacy-minded users.
Cons: Fewer servers than some competitors; occasional speed dips on Secure Core.
Setup tip: Use per-app routing to protect sensitive apps; use router-based URL routing for sites you don’t want routed through VPN.

7 VyprVPN

Split tunneling style: App-based split tunneling on desktop; URL-based routing via custom firewall rules on supported platforms.
Best for: Chameleon protocol to bypass restrictions, strong performance.
Key features:
- Own DNS service VyprDNS
- Kill switch and leak protection
- Global server network
Pros: Consistent performance, independent DNS, good for bypassing censorship.
Cons: Not as feature-rich in split tunneling as some rivals.
Setup tip: Enable Per-App routing for banking or streaming apps; for URLs, rely on firewall-based rules on your router.

Quick comparison table

NordVPN: App-based + URL options, strong privacy, broad network
ExpressVPN: App-based, strong streaming, user-friendly
Surfshark: App-based + possible URL rules, great value
CyberGhost: App-based with profiles, beginner-friendly
Private Internet Access: App-based, highly customizable
Proton VPN: App-based, strong privacy, Secure Core
VyprVPN: App-based, good censorship circumvention

VPN	Split Tunneling Type	Best For	Key Strengths	Platform Coverage
NordVPN	App-based, URL-based	Security + streaming	Privacy, 24/7 support	Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux
ExpressVPN	App-based	Simple, fast streaming	Speed, reliability	Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux
Surfshark	App-based	Value and flexibility	Unlimited devices, affordable	Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux
CyberGhost	App-based	Beginner-friendly	Streaming profiles	Windows, macOS, Android, iOS
Private Internet Access	App-based	Advanced users	Deep customization	Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux
ProtonVPN	App-based	Privacy-first	Secure Core, transparency	Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux
VyprVPN	App-based	Censorship bypass	VyprDNS, good for restrictions	Windows, macOS, Android, iOS

How to set up split tunneling on popular platforms

Windows

Open your VPN app
Navigate to Settings or Split Tunneling
Choose App-based rules: add apps to route through VPN
For URL-based: look for Advanced or Custom Routing; add domains to bypass or use VPN

macOS

Open the VPN app
Look for Split Tunneling or Per-Application Routing
Add apps to route through VPN
If URL-based routing is available, configure domains as needed

Android

Launch the VPN app
Access Split Tunneling in settings
Select apps to go through VPN
Some devices allow per-domain routing via browser settings or VPN app features

iOS

iOS split tunneling support is more limited due to platform restrictions
Use per-app routing where available, and consider relying on the VPN’s Privacy and Kill Switch features to protect data

Routers and DNS-level routing

Some VPNs offer router-level split tunneling, routing specific devices or domains
DNS routing can also be used to bypass VPN for certain domains if supported
This is a great option if you want to avoid configuring every device

Real-world tips and best practices

Start simple: pick one app to route through the VPN and one site to bypass, then expand.
Test for leaks: after configuring, visit a site like dnsleaktest.com to verify your DNS behavior.
Consider latency-sensitive activities: streaming and gaming usually benefit from routing outside the VPN.
Watch for VPN providers’ jurisdiction and logging policies to maintain privacy goals.
Use a reliable kill switch: ensure it’s enabled so leaks don’t happen if the VPN drops.
Check for app updates: VPN apps regularly improve split tunneling features.

Performance and privacy data you should know

Server spread: More servers can help you find fast routes for specific apps or sites.
Speed impact: Even with split tunneling, VPNs add overhead; expect some slowdown on VPN-routed apps. The impact varies by protocol WireGuard/Lightway/B250 paths.
Privacy posture: No-logs policies and independent audits strengthen trust. Look for audited claims and a clear data handling policy.
Jurisdiction: Some regions require data retention or surveillance cooperation; consider providers with strong privacy protections and independent oversight.

Practical scenarios: what to route with split tunneling

Scenario A: You want to game with low latency while still downloading updates through VPN for security
- Route the game client through VPN app-based and allow background update apps to run outside VPN
Scenario B: Streaming a region-locked show while browsing locally
- Route streaming app through VPN, bypass other browsers for local content
Scenario C: Access work resources securely
- Route work apps through VPN, keep general browsing outside
Scenario D: Banking app protection
- Route banking app through VPN, keep social media outside
Scenario E: Secure torrenting on a private network
- Route torrent client through VPN if allowed by policy, keep other apps outside

Common pitfalls and how to avoid them

Pitfall: Not testing after setup
- Do quick DNS and IP checks to confirm routing behavior.
Pitfall: Overcomplicating rules
- Start with 1–2 rules, then expand as needed.
Pitfall: Missing updates
- Regularly update VPN apps to keep split tunneling working smoothly.
Pitfall: Incompatible apps
- Some apps don’t cooperate well with split tunneling. If an app malfunctions, try removing and re-adding it.

Extra resources and tools

VPN provider official blogs and help guides
User forums for real-world configuration tips
Online speed testing tools to compare VPN-selected routes
Privacy advocacy group reports on VPNs and split tunneling

Frequently Asked Questions

How does split tunneling actually work?

Split tunneling lets you decide which traffic goes through the VPN tunnel and which uses your normal internet connection. You can pick apps or domains to route differently, giving you both security and speed where it matters.

Can I use both app-based and URL-based split tunneling at the same time?

Yes, many VPNs offer both modes on supported platforms. You can route specific apps through the VPN while bypassing others by URL, depending on the app and OS. Prime Video Not Working With VPN Here’s How To Fix It: VPN Tips, VPNs For Prime Video, And Streaming Workarounds

Is split tunneling safe?

Split tunneling is as safe as the VPN itself. It does introduce potential risk if sensitive data leaks occur through apps not routed via VPN. Always enable a kill switch and DNS leak protection.

Which VPNs support per-URL routing?

Several top VPNs offer per-URL or per-domain routing in desktop apps or with router-level rules. Check the latest feature list from the provider for exact capabilities.

Does split tunneling affect streaming quality?

It can improve it by routing only the streaming app through the VPN, leaving other traffic unencrypted and faster. However, VPN server load and protocol choice still matter.

Can I route all traffic except one app through the VPN?

Yes, this is common via app-based split tunneling: you designate the app to bypass VPN, with the rest going through the VPN.

How do I test if split tunneling is working?

Use a service like ipconfig/ifconfig along with a DNS leak test to confirm which traffic goes through the VPN. Test with both VPN-enabled and VPN-disabled scenarios. Nordvpn extension edge guide complet pour securiser votre navigation sur microsoft edge en 2026 et au-delà

Are there performance trade-offs with split tunneling?

There can be, but you’ll typically notice faster speeds for non-VPN traffic. The VPN-routed apps may still experience latency depending on server load and protocol.

Which platforms have the best split tunneling support?

Windows and macOS generally have the most mature support, followed by Android and iOS. Linux varies by distro and VPN client compatibility.

How do I set up split tunneling on a router?

Router-based split tunneling is more technical. You’ll configure specific devices or domains to route through VPN on the router, often via VPN client firmware or a compatible VPN service’s router guide.

Sources:

Proton github: 深度解析、使用指南与最新动态，包含 VPN 安全与隐私要点

Proton vpn ⭐ 官方下载地址与详细使用教程：免费版也能讓你線上隱私更安全 Github Copilot Not Working With VPN Here’s How To Fix It

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