SocksDroid is a free VPN application for mobile by developer Boundary Effect. It is a proxy-based VPN client that leverage Android's built-in VPN and makes it accessible and configurable to users. It gives them the option to use their preferred VPN to use in conjunction with it.

Compared to others like VPN - Proxy Master or VPN Robot - Free VPN Proxy, SocksDroid does not provide its own server per se. Instead, it lets users add their VPN servers. It will rely on these user-defined servers to secure their only activities across the various applications on their devices.

A VPN alternative

Socks5 is a more secure version of traditional proxies used for rerouting internet traffic within contained instances like with an application. It then takes data and routes it through a remote server. With this in mind, SocksDroid is an app that leverages Android built-in VPN foundation, and lets you set your own custom server that it will use to provide online protection for your device.

This app provides plenty of options and ways to configure it. From its Default Profile, you can edit the Server IP and Server Port of your choosing. You can also opt to set IPv6 forwarding if your network supports it as it will result in better and higher speed processing. The same goes for UDP Forwarding to get the best speeds when exchanging data with your remote server.

What's more, you can enable Username and Password Authentication, so that only authorized users can connect to your server. Advanced features include setting up your DNS server, as well as per-app proxy settings for selecting which apps you need to use it on the most. It should go without saying, but all of this is really meant for more advanced users. Beginners will encounter a steep learning curve.

Versatile, if a bit complicated

Proxies have always been a good alternative to VPN services, especially if you'll mainly use them for daily web browsing. They are highly configurable and adaptable to suit your specific requirements and are often available for free. With that being said, they're often geared toward advanced users, given how much they can be tweaked. If you don't mind learning the ropes, it's worth checking out.