7 Best VPNs With Split Tunneling App and URL Based Options

7 Best VPNs With Split Tunneling App and URL Based Options is a quick way to say: you want flexibility on which apps or sites go through your VPN. In this guide, you’ll learn which providers offer split tunneling and how URL-based rules can improve performance, privacy, and access. Quick fact: split tunneling lets you route some traffic through the VPN while other traffic goes directly to the internet, which can save bandwidth and reduce latency.

Split tunneling is a feature that many people overlook until it’s missing. If you want to stream on your home Wi‑Fi while keeping work apps secure, or you need to access local services without leaving the VPN, split tunneling is your friend. In this video/content guide, we’ll break down the top VPNs that support both app-based and URL-based split tunneling, compare how each one handles rules, and show you practical setups for common use cases. Here’s what you’ll find:

A quick map of features for each provider
How app-based split tunneling works versus URL-based routing
Real-world scenarios: streaming, gaming, remote work, and sensitive browsing
Setup steps, tips, and potential caveats
A comparison table with highlights so you can quickly pick your winner

Useful URLs and Resources text only
Apple Website – apple.com, Artificial Intelligence Wikipedia – en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artificial_intelligence, VPN overview – en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virtual_private_network, NordVPN official – nordvpn.com, ExpressVPN official – expressvpn.com, Surfshark official – surfshark.com, ProtonVPN official – protonvpn.com, Private Internet Access official – privacidad or privacyinc.com, VyprVPN official – vyprvpn.com, TunnelBear official – tunnelbear.com

Table of Contents

What split tunneling is and why it matters

Split tunneling lets you decide which traffic goes through the encrypted tunnel and which traffic goes direct. This is helpful when:

You want to access local network devices printers, home cameras while staying private online.
You stream geo-restricted content via VPN, but still need local dashboards for smart TVs or gaming consoles.
You’re trying to conserve VPN bandwidth or reduce latency for latency‑sensitive apps.

Common approaches include:

App-based: pick specific apps that should use the VPN.
URL-based: pick websites or domains to route through the VPN.
System-wide with exceptions: many vendors offer a mix.

Key stats to know recent data:

Over 60% of VPN users value split tunneling for balancing privacy and performance source: VPN user surveys 2023-2024.
URL-based rules tend to be more precise for corporate or mixed home setups, while app-based rules are simpler for casual users.

How to choose a VPN with split tunneling and URL-based options

When evaluating, look for:

Clear split tunneling controls in desktop and mobile apps
URL-based routing granularity: per-domain or per-subdomain
App-based routing across Windows, macOS, Android, iOS
Compatibility with streaming services and gaming
Privacy policy and no-logs commitments
Speed and uptime guarantees
Kill switch and DNS leak protection as safety nets

What to expect in practice: Nordvpn extension edge guide complet pour securiser votre navigation sur microsoft edge en 2026

You may configure a few rules to ensure your work apps stay protected while your browser and streaming apps bypass the VPN for speed.
Not every provider supports URL-based rules. If you rely on precise routing, verify this feature.

The list: 7 best VPNs with split tunneling app and URL-based options

Below is a practical rundown of providers that commonly support split tunneling and/or URL-based routing, with notes on how they implement these features.

1 NordVPN

Split tunneling: Yes, supports app-based split tunneling on Windows and Android. You can choose which apps go through the VPN.
URL-based routing: Some advanced configurations and features through custom rules; built-in per-app routing is more straightforward.
Strengths: Large server network, strong privacy stance, reliable apps.
Quick setup tip: In Windows, go to Settings > VPN settings > Split Tunneling, add the apps you want to route via VPN.
Potential caveats: Some streaming services may still detect VPNs; test with your preferred service.

2 ExpressVPN

Split tunneling: Supported on Windows and Android with per-app routing.
URL-based routing: Explicit URL-based rules aren’t a core feature, but you can manage app-specific routing effectively.
Strengths: Fast connections, strong security, user-friendly apps.
Quick setup tip: Use the VPN app’s settings to choose which apps use the VPN. For iOS/macOS, you’ll rely on system routing rules.
Potential caveats: Fewer granular URL rules than some competitors; focus on app-based control.

3 Surfshark

Split tunneling: App-based split tunneling available on Windows.
URL-based routing: Surfshark’s documentation emphasizes app rules; URL-based controls are less prominent.
Strengths: Affordable, unlimited device connections, solid performance.
Quick setup tip: In Windows, use Settings > Split tunneling to select apps.
Potential caveats: URL-based routing not as granular as some other vendors.

4 ProtonVPN

Split tunneling: Yes, ProtonVPN offers split tunneling on desktop platforms.
URL-based routing: Known for flexible routing rules, including per-site routing configurations in some tiers.
Strengths: Strong privacy focus, transparent policies, open-source client components.
Quick setup tip: In the ProtonVPN client, configure per-application or per-site rules where available.
Potential caveats: Some advanced features restricted to higher-tier plans.

5 Private Internet Access PIA

Split tunneling: Yes, PIA supports app-based split tunneling.
URL-based routing: PIA has per-site routing options in some configurations, depending on the platform.
Strengths: Longstanding VPN with customizable settings, good price-performance ratio.
Quick setup tip: Use the Advanced settings to pick which apps go through the VPN.
Potential caveats: User interface can be a bit technical for newcomers.

6 VyprVPN

Split tunneling: Features exist on various platforms, with per-app routing available in certain builds.
URL-based routing: More emphasis on app-level routing; URL rules may be available in higher tiers or via fine-tuned settings.
Strengths: Chameleon protocol for bypassing VPN blocks, solid performance.
Quick setup tip: Check the desktop app’s routing options to add apps you want to bypass or go through the VPN.
Potential caveats: Some features may require specific plans.

7 TunnelBear

Split tunneling: Basic split tunneling features may be limited, often more basic than others.
URL-based routing: Not a standout for per-site routing; primarily focused on simple, user-friendly VPN experiences.
Strengths: Very approachable for VPN beginners, pleasant UI, reliable for light usage.
Quick setup tip: If you need robust split tunneling controls, you may want to look at other providers.
Potential caveats: May not meet power-user needs for precise URL-based routing.

How to set up split tunneling step-by-step guide

Step 1: Choose a provider that supports your preferred type of split tunneling app-based or URL-based.
Step 2: Install the VPN app on your main device Windows, macOS, Android, iOS.
Step 3: Open the app and locate split tunneling or routing rules:
- Look for “Split Tunneling,” “Routing,” or “App Rules.”
Step 4: Decide your use case:
- For work apps: add these apps to the VPN route
- For streaming or browsing: exclude those apps/domains from the VPN
Step 5: Apply and test:
- Verify IP address on a non-VPN site to confirm direct routing
- Verify IP address on a VPN-protected site to confirm tunnel routing
Step 6: Run leakage checks:
- DNS leaks: use a DNS leak test and ensure DNS requests are resolved inside the VPN tunnel when needed
- WebRTC leaks: test in browser settings or with online tools

Practical scenarios and recommended setups

Scenario A: Remote work with sensitive data
- App-based split tunneling: Route work apps through VPN; keep personal apps messaging, email outside the VPN for speed.
- URL-based routing: If your corporate intranet is domain-specific, route only that domain through VPN.
Scenario B: Streaming and gaming on the same device
- Route streaming and gaming apps through VPN only if you need privacy or geo-unblocking.
- Keep system updates and local network devices outside VPN to reduce lag.
Scenario C: Smart home and local devices
- Exclude smart home apps from VPN, but route management apps used to configure devices through VPN as needed.
Scenario D: Privacy-focused browsing
- Use URL-based rules to route only sensitive domains through VPN, limit VPN use to those domains, keep general browsing outside VPN if speed is a priority.

Performance considerations with split tunneling

Latency and speed: By routing only what you need through the VPN, you can reduce latency for non-VPN traffic and preserve bandwidth for critical apps.
Battery life: On mobile, enabling split tunneling can reduce battery drain compared to routing all traffic through the VPN consistently.
Service compatibility: Some streaming platforms actively detect VPNs; test different servers and routing rules if access is blocked.

Security and privacy notes

Split tunneling can introduce visibility gaps if misconfigured. Ensure you don’t accidentally leak sensitive traffic outside the VPN in scenarios where privacy matters.
Always enable standard protections like a kill switch and DNS leak protection in your VPN client.
Review the provider’s privacy policy to understand data handling, especially if you’re routing some traffic outside the VPN.

Comparison table high-level

NordVPN: App-based split tunneling, some advanced routing features; strong privacy and large server network.
ExpressVPN: App-based, straightforward routing; strong speed and reliability.
Surfshark: App-based, affordable, solid all-around; URL-based routing limited.
ProtonVPN: Flexible routing options; strong privacy focus; higher tiers may be needed for advanced URL rules.
Private Internet Access: Customizable; good performance; interfaces can be technical.
VyprVPN: App-level routing; good specialty features for bypassing blocks.
TunnelBear: Beginner-friendly; limited advanced routing; best for simple use cases.

Best practices for beginners

Start with app-based split tunneling if you’re new; it’s usually easier to configure.
Add only essential apps to the VPN to keep things simple and predictable.
If you need precise domain routing for business use, verify that URL-based rules are available on your plan.
Regularly test your configuration to ensure no leaks or misrouting.

Advanced tips for power users

Create separate profiles or configurations for different use cases e.g., “Work,” “Streaming,” “Home Gaming”.
Combine app-based and URL-based rules for maximum control.
Use DNS-based routing if your provider offers it as a separate option for added granularity.
Keep your VPN client up to date to access the latest routing features and security fixes.

Common pitfalls to avoid

Assuming all traffic is protected when you only configured a few apps.
Overcomplicating rules, which can lead to leaks or broken connections.
Not testing after updates or server changes; some rules may behave differently on new versions.

Quick start checklist

Confirm that your chosen provider supports app-based and/or URL-based split tunneling.
Install the VPN client on your primary device.
Configure initial rules: 2–3 essential apps through VPN, rest bypass.
Run IP/DNS tests to confirm routing behavior.
Save, label, and export your rule sets for easy reapplication on other devices.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does split tunneling work in VPNs?

Split tunneling lets you decide which traffic goes through the VPN and which traffic goes directly to the internet, using app-based rules or URL-based routing.

What is URL-based split tunneling?

URL-based split tunneling uses domain names or URLs to route traffic through the VPN. For example, you could route your banking site through the VPN while other sites bypass it.

Do all VPNs support split tunneling?

No, not all VPNs support split tunneling. Look for terms like “split tunneling,” “routing,” or “per-app rules” in the features list.

Is URL-based routing more secure than app-based?

URL-based routing offers precision for specific domains and can minimize exposure by routing only sensitive sites. However, app-based routing is simpler and effective for many users. How to Easily Disable VPN or Proxy on Your TV in 2026: Quick Guide, Tips, and Best Practices

Can split tunneling leak my real IP?

If misconfigured, it can. Always test for leaks IP, WebRTC, DNS after setting up rules and enable a kill switch.

Does split tunneling affect streaming quality?

It can improve it by routing only certain apps through the VPN, freeing bandwidth for streaming. However, some services try to block VPNs, so you may need to switch servers.

How do I test my split tunneling setup?

Use IP check sites to validate your VPN-protected traffic, and check your local network IP for non-VPN traffic. Run DNS leak tests and WebRTC leak tests.

Can I use split tunneling on mobile devices?

Yes, many providers support Android and iOS with app-based controls. URL-based routing on mobile is less common but available on some apps.

Is split tunneling compatible with all VPN plans?

Sometimes. Higher-tier plans may offer more granular routing options, including URL-based rules. Check your plan details. Urban vpn edge extension how to use guide and best features explained: Smart Tips, Setup, and Real-World Uses

How can I troubleshoot if routing doesn’t work?

Restart the VPN app, reapply your rules, verify the correct apps/domains are selected, and test with multiple websites to ensure the routing behaves as expected.

Sources:

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