How to Use Grindr in Turkey in 2024 (Safe + Easy!)
Reading time: 16 min
Updated on November 29, 2023
Since Turkey has banned Grindr, it’s not possible to access it if you’re located there. At least not without the help of a simple tool called a VPN (Virtual Private Network). With a VPN, you can use Grindr in Turkey (or any location) to socialize with your best matches.
A VPN serves as a tool that enables you to easily alter your virtual location. By connecting to a country where Grindr is accessible, you can gain access to the platform. However, it’s crucial to note that not all VPNs are effective in this situation. Turkey actively works to block both VPNs and VPN-related websites.
Of the 30+ VPNs I tested, ExpressVPN came out as the best. It offers 105 virtual locations to help you access your Grindr account. On top of that, it’s one of the best VPNs for protecting your privacy — this has been proven in real-life scenarios. You can also try ExpressVPN risk-free in Turkey as it has a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not totally satisfied, you’re entitled to a full refund. Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
Important! Turkey has banned several services and apps, and while using a VPN there isn’t officially illegal, there are measures in place to block VPN websites in an effort to minimize their use. Please do your research and check the most recent local laws before using a VPN to access a blocked app or service. While we fully support the LGBTQIA+ community, we don’t want anyone to face prosecution, so please be cautious.
Quick Guide: How to Use Grindr With a VPN in Turkey in 2024
- Download a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN for using Grindr in Turkey because it’s easy to use and has quality privacy protection.
- Connect to a server. Choose the nearest country where Grindr is accessible, like Bulgaria, Cyprus, or Greece, for fast connections.
- That’s it! You can now send messages and find new matches on Grindr from Turkey.
The Best VPNs to Access Grindr in Turkey (Updated 2024)
1. ExpressVPN — Access Grindr Without Restrictions in Turkey With Obfuscated Servers
Key Features:
- Access 3,000+ servers in 105 countries including Bulgaria, Cyprus, and Greece
- Has an entire network of obfuscated servers to get past anti-VPN firewalls in Turkey and mirror links to download the app easily if you’re already in Turkey
- Allows a maximum of 8 simultaneous connections in Turkey
- Provides excellent support via 24/7 live chat, email, and video tutorials
- Backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans
ExpressVPN is the best to use Grindr in Turkey because all its servers hide VPN traffic from firewalls. In case your network blocks VPN connections, ExpressVPN’s servers use advanced obfuscation technology that bypasses these blocks by making your traffic look like it’s coming from a regular internet connection. This tech kicks in automatically, so you can connect to Grindr easily whether you’re on a public or restricted network.
If you’re already in Turkey, you can download ExpressVPN even if you find the website is blocked. I just emailed customer support (support@expressvpn.zendesk.com) and asked for the most up-to-date mirror link. This is a copy of the site using a different URL that hasn’t been blocked, so you can still access the app within Turkey, allowing you to then access Grindr. If you aren’t yet in the country, it’s highly recommended that you download ExpressVPN before traveling.
ExpressVPN also protects your privacy with:
- Network Lock — disables the internet if the VPN connection drops suddenly to prevent accidental leaks on your devices, including iOS and Android.
- TrustedServer technology — backs its no-log policy with RAM-based servers that are incapable of storing your information and wipe all data with frequent reboots.
- Military-grade encryption — hides your activities on Grindr from spies and other third parties with the most secure cipher available.
- Privacy-friendly jurisdiction — headquartered in the British Virgin Islands where there are no internet surveillance laws, so data won’t be handed over to foreign intelligence services.
Another thing that makes ExpressVPN standout against the competition is its fast speeds. Other VPNs can slow your connection down dramatically. But ExpressVPN’s proprietary Lightway protocol is fast, so my video chats were smooth on Grindr with zero audio delays. My screen also didn’t freeze due to poor connection.
Since ExpressVPN has an extensive network of 3,000+ servers in 105 countries, it can also access other apps that might not be accessible in Turkey besides Grindr. During tests, it worked with:
| Wikipedia | ||
| YouTube | ||
| Netflix | Hulu | Amazon Prime Video |
| Max | Disney+ | ESPN |
| Peacock TV | Sling TV | Crunchyroll |
If you often access Grindr on your smartphone, ExpressVPN has apps for Android and iOS devices, besides other common operating systems like Windows and macOS. It took me less than 5 minutes to install it on my iPhone and connect to a server in Bulgaria.
The one minor drawback to using ExpressVPN is its price. The 2-year + 4 months free plan is the cheapest, and it costs per month. However, after finding that many VPNs struggle to work on restrictive networks in Turkey, it’s worth the small extra cost to go with ExpressVPN.
You can also try ExpressVPN totally risk-free in Turkey since it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re in any way unsatisfied, you are entitled to a full refund as long as you request it within the guarantee period. Just send the customer support team a message on live chat. My refund was approved in a few minutes with no questions asked. I had my money back in 5 days.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
ExpressVPN works with: Windows, macOS, Linux, Chromebook, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Nvidia Shield, Xiaomi Mi Box, Chromecast, Roku, Android TVs, smart TVs, routers, and more.
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2. CyberGhost — WiFi Protection Keeps Your Grindr Messages and Activities Private on Turkish Public Hotspots
Key Features:
- Has 11,670+ servers in 100 countries including Cyprus and Greece
- Connects to a server automatically with WiFi Protection, has a kill switch, and IP leak protection
- Access Grindr on 7 devices at the same time in Turkey
- Contact support via 24/7 live chat, online ticket, or in-depth guides
- Backed 45-day money-back guarantee with the long-term plans
CyberGhost has WiFi protection to automatically start a VPN connection on public networks in Turkey. Besides being unable to access Grindr, public WiFi networks at cafés and hotels aren’t secured. By automatically establishing a secure connection, CyberGhost ensures you can use Grindr with added privacy, even if you forget to manually connect to a VPN server first.
Additionally, CyberGhost protects your security and privacy on Grindr in Turkey with:
- IP leak protection — prevents your traffic from flowing outside the encrypted tunnel in Turkey.
- Kill switch — stops all online traffic if the VPN connection gets terminated for whatever reason on your iOS, Android, or other device.
- NoSpy servers — allows you to use maximum security servers in Romania that are owned and managed in-house to access Grindr.
With Turkey’s history of blocking various platforms temporarily or permanently besides Grindr, CyberGhost’s network of servers, including 29 in Bulgaria and more worldwide, is helpful. By simply connecting to a server outside Turkey, you can access all your usual apps and platforms like:
| Wikipedia | ||
| YouTube | ||
| Netflix | Hulu | Amazon Prime Video |
| Max | Disney+ | ESPN |
If you’re new to VPNs, CyberGhost is a top choice because it’s really user friendly. You can use it easily on an allowed 7 devices at once without issues. Whether you use an Android or iOS, the layout remains the similar, so you can switch from using Grindr on your smartphone to your laptop without having to figure out the interface all over again.
Connected to a CyberGhost server within 1,000 miles, I often observed fast speeds. As expected, there was a slight reduction from my baseline speed, but only by 12%. But at 77Mbps, CyberGhost was still fast enough for smooth browsing, quick image uploads, and real-time chats without any noticeable lag on Grindr.
The biggest issue with CyberGhost is that it doesn’t offer obfuscation to bypass VPN blocks, like ExpressVPN. This means if the network you use to access Grindr blocks VPN connections, then CyberGhost isn’t the best choice. However, if you’re network allows VPN traffic, then you’ll be able to access CyberGhost’s huge network of servers near Turkey thanks to its network in 100 countries.
I recommend you try CyberGhost with Grindr yourself with the 2-year + 2 months plan. It’s only a month and comes with a generous 45-day money-back guarantee. I tested the refund process myself, and it was easy. After I sent a message via 24/7 live chat, my money was back in my account in less than a week.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as CyberGhost VPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
CyberGhost works with: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Raspberry Pi, Chrome, Firefox, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Roku, smart TVs, routers, and more.
3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Huge Server Network Provides More Connection Options Near Turkey for Grindr
Key Features:
- Has a network of 35,000+ servers in 91 countries including Bulgaria, Cyprus, and Greece
- Protected with customizable encryption, a no-log policy, and a kill switch on all devices
- Supports unlimited device connections in Turkey
- Offers 24/7 live chat, email, and online guides for customer service needs
- Eligible for a refund for 30 days from the date of purchase
PIA has the biggest network on this list to support high-speed connections in Turkey for Grindr. With more server options, there’s less chance of you connecting to one that’s overcrowded since a congested server drags down speed. Private messages were delivered instantly on Grindr since I wasn’t competing for bandwidth with other users on the same server.
In addition to Grindr, PIA can access many other blocked content and sites in Turkey. Some of the services that PIA worked with during tests include:
| Wikipedia | ||
| YouTube | ||
| Netflix | Hulu | Amazon Prime Video |
Besides IP leak protection and a kill switch that every VPN on this list has, PIA offers several other privacy and security features that are useful in Turkey, such as:
- Private payment option — accepts gift cards from major brands so that not even PIA will know who you are or your credit card details.
- Customizable encryption — select AES 256-bit when you need tight security for checking your bank account and 128-bit for faster speeds when starting a video call on Grindr.
You can customize your PIA connection for Grindr and other online activities
Unfortunately, PIA is not located in a privacy-friendly country like ExpressVPN. Its headquarters in the US means it can be asked to submit user logs. However, I wasn’t afraid of using it or sharing my credit card details because PIA has a no-log policy that has been independently audited and proven in court. PIA admitted in a sworn statement that it doesn’t have any user logs to share.
The best way to find out if it’s right for you is to try PIA with Grindr yourself. Although it’s one of the best monthly VPNs, I recommend the 2-year + 2 months plan instead because it’s cheaper at a month. If you don’t like it, you can ask for a refund within 30 days. I sent an email and heard back from PIA the same day. 8 days later, I got my money back.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
PIA works with: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Opera, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Amazon Fire TV devices, Chromecast, Apple TV, Roku, smart TVs, routers, and more.
Easy Comparison Table: 2024’s Best VPNs for Grindr in Turkey
| IP Leak Protection | Obfuscation Feature | Kill Switch | Best Price | Money-Back Guarantee | |
| ExpressVPN | DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC | ✔ | ✔ | 2-year + 4 months free plan is a month | 30 days |
| CyberGhost | DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC | ✘ | ✔ | 2-year + 2 months plan is a month | 45 days |
| PIA | DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC | Hides your connection with a proxy | ✔ | 2-year + 2 months plan is a month | 30 days |
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: ExpressVPN, Cyberghost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
How I Ranked the Best VPNs for Grindr and Turkey
I tested and ranked more than 30 services to find the most secure and reliable VPNs in 2024 for Grindr. Each VPN test was based on the following criteria:
- Works in Turkey — VPN sites are blocked in Turkey, and many don’t work in the country. That’s why I only selected those that can block Grindr in Turkey.
- Wide server network — I only picked VPNs with servers in countries close to Turkey, like Greece, Cyprus, and Bulgaria.
- Strong security and privacy — Since your activities could be monitored in Turkey, I made sure the VPNs shortlisted have kill switches, leak protection, and military-grade encryption.
- No-log policy — None of the VPNs I chose will monitor, gather, or disclose your Grindr activities with external parties as they’ve been independently audited.
- Fast speeds — Turkey’s internet speeds are generally slow, but the VPNs on this list minimize speed loss to enable high-bandwidth activities on Grindr.
- Mobile app — It’s easiest to use Grindr on your smartphone or tablet, so it’s essential the VPN has a dedicated app for Android, iOS, and other major operating systems.
FAQs: VPNs and Grindr in Turkey
How does a VPN work with Grindr in Turkey?
A VPN reroutes your internet traffic through its global server network, allowing you to access your Grindr account in 3 easy steps while traveling in Turkey. It also helps protect your online activities as it encrypts your internet traffic to hide your Grindr activities from third-party snoopers.
Does Grindr work in Turkey?
No, Grindr has been blocked in Turkey since 2013 as a “protection measure for the public.” As a tourist in the country, you can only access Grindr in Turkey by using a VPN. Many VPN websites are also restricted in the country, so you should download a reliable VPN before entering Turkey.
Can a VPN unblock Grindr in Turkey?
Yes, but only if you use one of the best VPNs to access Grindr in Turkey. By selecting a server in another country, you allow the VPN to change your IP address and route your traffic from outside Turkey, where the app isn’t banned. This lets you check your Grindr messages and meet new acquaintances.
What’s the best VPN to use Grindr from Turkey?
ExpressVPN is the best VPN to access Grindr from Turkey because it has obfuscated servers to disguise your VPN connection as regular traffic. Additionally, it’s super fast for Turkey, where the internet speeds are generally slow. It also uses RAM-based servers to make sure none of your activities on Grindr can be stored in them.
Can I use a free VPN to access Grindr in Turkey?
Yes, but I don’t recommend them. Even the best free VPNs in 2024 have limitations. You’ll only have access to servers in a few locations. This severely limits your choices, especially when you want to keep up with matches in your home country. Unfortunately, free VPNs also have strict data limits, meaning you’ll only get a few swipes and private messages before you hit the cap.
Fortunately, premium VPNs like CyberGhost have a generous 45-day money-back guarantee. This is perfect if you’re traveling to Turkey for a short time and don’t need a VPN after your trip. You can use CyberGhost with Grindr in Turkey for free, and once you’re home, contact customer support over 24/7 live chat to arrange a refund.
Access Grindr in Turkey with ExpressVPN
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
Secure Your Data on Grindr in Turkey
The best way to access Grindr reliably in Turkey is with a premium VPN. After extensive testing, I’ve found that ExpressVPN is the best choice for Grindr and Turkey due to its obfuscated servers and exceptionally fast connections. The audited no-log policy means you can safely use Grindr, knowing your dating life will remain private.
You can try ExpressVPN risk-free with Grindr to make sure it’s right for you. If you’re not completely satisfied, you can use its 30-day money-back guarantee to get a full refund. I tested this myself, and the process was easy. A representative approved my refund in minutes, and I had my money back in less than 5 days.
Summary — The Best VPNs for Grindr in Turkey in 2024
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: ExpressVPN, Cyberghost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
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