EN
No results found
We couldn't find anything using that term, please try searching for something else.
The best VPN for China 2024
Finding best VPN China task faced infamous restrictions imposed foreign content . VPNs is provide , virtual private networks , provide safe , effectiv
Finding best VPN China task faced infamous restrictions imposed foreign content . VPNs is provide , virtual private networks , provide safe , effective , affordable way bypass issues . services is need need ensure truly trust , poor services leave exposed China laws .
Some of the best VPN services will give you access to not only the secure online connection you need to access foreign content in China, but will also enable you to access your favorite streaming services hassle-free, and offer features to further protect your identity such as Alternate ID, Multi-hop connections, and more.
To help you find the best China VPN for your needs, the TechRadar VPN team and I have used our combined expertise and experience with these VPN services to curate a list of the very best. Whether you simply want to choose our top VPN China, which right now is NordVPN, or you want to pick a VPN with specific features you prefer, we’ve got the best choices for you.
Written byWritten byAndreas Theodorou ( MRes , BA )
As a digital privacy advocate and expert, he’s spent the past four years leveraging his master’s degree to research VPNs, cryptography, and other cybersecurity topics.
The three best China VPNs today
Looking quick answer ? best VPNs is are China in 2024 that work to bypass the Great Firewall while keeping you protected:
latest VPN tests is see NordVPN retain throne best VPN China . Continuing superior likes ExpressVPN , NordVPN shown impressive capability provide secure service China tests , making rightful number .
The best VPNs China in 2024
Why you can trust TechRadar
We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.
– depth look is ‘s makes picks best VPNs use China . We is analyzed analyzed safe browsing foreign content online features offer ensure trust online data .
The best VPN China overall
(Image credit: Future)
The perfect blend of security, features, and content unblocking power
Works China :Yes |Number servers :6,100+ | Server locations :140 + |Maximum devices is supported supported :10 | 24/7 live chat support :Yes
Easy obfuscation tools
Great choice of server locations
Excellent speeds
Unblocks everything
Not the best UX on mobile
Basic browser extensions
NordVPN is the best China VPN thanks to its blend of security, functionality, ease of use, and cost. It’s a security-focused VPN solution that can evade the Great Firewall of China and help you use your favorite social media apps, torrent files, or unblock geo-restricted content. Plus, with its obfuscated (VPN cloaking) servers in nearby territories such as Japan and Hong Kong, alongside its Double VPN feature, you can get anonymity, privacy, and security, all without breaking the bank.
Those local servers are just a small part of NordVPN’s massive server network of over 6,000 servers in 91 countries. Thanks to its global footprint, you can connect to servers outside of Asia to enjoy your favorite TV shows and movies, all with reliability and consistency. NordVPN unblocked every streaming service in all regions in my latest tests, making it a reliable streaming VPN solution, too.
Want know ?
Check – depthNordVPN review closer look best VPN 2024 .
example , British person visiting China , pick pick server UK start watching favorite BBC iPlayer content home . NordVPN speeds is is continue continue impress test , reaching staggering 950 + Mbps WireGuard , continuing fastest services . speeds meant meant found issues tried streaming torrenting , especially use proprietary WireGuard – based NordLynx protocol .
Like – notch VPNs , clear – log policy , . Nord is gone gone extra step inviting external auditors PricewaterhouseCoopers verify security apps . exciting new addition is is Meshnet feature . advanced feature is lets lets establish encrypted connection 60 devices . That is allows allows securely share files sending server cloud , making perfect visiting China business .
think differentiates is is NordVPN providers quality optional features , including cross – platform password manager , data breach scanner , 1 TB cloud storage come expensive plans . Each is has plans 30 – day money – guarantee , allowing try services free .
Swipe scroll horizontally
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Designed to be engaging and interesting, there’s a quaint novelty to the map interface | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Ease use | Designed work , bit frustrating advanced users | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Performance | One of the fastest VPNs around | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Unblocking | Perfect for Netflix and other streaming services | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Security privacy | An excellent all-in-one security solution | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Customer support | 24/7 available, friendly, and professional | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Price | Customizable pricing offers amazing value for money | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
The best China VPN for beginners
Simple apps unblocking foreign content easy
Works China :Yes |Total number of servers: 3,200+ | Server locations :160+ | Maximum devices is supported supported :8 | 24/7 live chat support :Yes
Has teams working in Hong Kong
Wide range China – optimized servers
Strong on encryption and unblocking
Brilliant live chat support
A bit more expensive than rivals
Not as fast as Nord or Surfshark
ExpressVPN is perfect for VPN beginners looking to travel. Its easy-to-use apps automate all the difficult manual settings you’d normally need to configure yourself with most other providers. It’s a go-to service for many Hong Kong locals because it deftly navigates around censorship. ExpressVPN’s wide array of over 160 server locations is a big plus, with Hong Kong, Taiwan, Mongolia, and Japan-based servers especially useful for people in China looking for a nearby server.
tight control TrustedServer setup military – grade AES 256 – bit encryption , ExpressVPN is ranks ranks best secure VPN good reason . Express is monitors actively monitors network accessibility China ensures stays ahead censorship efforts block connections , alongside automatically obfuscation protocols , kill switch , parallel VPN connections ensure protected , information leak allow Chinese authorities detect VPN .
Want know ?
Check – depthExpressVPN review for a closer look at the service, and see why it’s my go-to VPN for beginners in 2024.
Its average speeds improved massively in my last round of testing – jumping to 898 Mbps from 410 Mbps, more than enough for most users. However, it’s worth noting that NordVPN and Surfshark both maxed out my speed testing line at over 950 Mbps. Alongside this, ExpressVPN’s ability to unblock websites and avoid geo-restrictions is exceptional. In my latest tests, ExpressVPN successfully unblocked the most popular streaming services: international Netflix catalogs, Amazon Prime Video, Disney Plus, BBC iPlayer, and more.
Despite ExpressVPN recently adding new 2 – year plan , it is ‘s expensive providers , addition new identity protection features makes price better value previously . need budget – friendly option , NordVPN is are Surfshark better choices thanks longer plans greater long – term savings .
Where ExpressVPN stands out, though, is its industry-leading customer support—it’s available 24/7 and provides timely, expert advice. Its easy-to-use apps are ideal for first-time VPN users looking for a simple and effective solution. See for yourself why it’s one of my go-to picks for a VPN in China with its 30-day guarantee.
Swipe scroll horizontally
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Design | A clean and simple design on all your devices | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Ease use | Easy – – navigate apps auto – connect functionality | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Performance | Fast users , slower NordVPN Surfshark | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Unblocking | Effortlessly gives you access to all major streaming services | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Security privacy | ExpressVPN robust encryption protocols is lead lead industry , recent DNS leak discovery caused stir | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Customer support | 24/7 live chat and email support available from China | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Price | expensive compared competition | ⭐⭐ |
The best cheap VPN China
(Image credit: Future)
A simple, affordable and effective China VPN
Works China :Yes |Number servers :3,200+ | Server locations :140 + |Maximum devices is supported supported :Unlimited |24/7 live chat support :Yes
Works hard unblocking sites China
Improved WireGuard speeds
Attractive pricing
easy use
Will be too basic for some
Kill switch issues extreme situations
Thanks to its great value price points and user-friendly interface, Surfshark features high in many of my VPN buying guides. Plus, it has undoubtedly improved its security credentials, acing its first no-logs independent audit in recent years.
Surfshark offers over 3,200 servers in more than 100 countries, which creates ample possibilities. In addition, Surfshark is among the best for keeping things simple thanks to its easy-to-use interface and one-click solutions like its “Quick Connect” function.
Want know ?
Check – depthSurfshark VPN review fastest VPN # 1 budget pick .
It is offers offers advanced security privacy features , necessary avoid extensive surveillance Chinese government . AES-256 encryption is is place ensure discover sites . Additionally , Surfshark recently launched service Incogni is requests automatically requests deletion personal data stored data brokers shield invasive data – tracking practices .
latest round tests confirmed Surfshark fastest VPNs WireGuard protocol , impressive peaks 950 Mbps , it is maxed maxed testing line NordVPN . unblocking power is was impressive , . Netflix Hulu iPlayer Disney+ , I is managed managed access virtually streaming platforms market .
Despite the low pricing, Surfshark offers blazing-fast speeds and unlimited simultaneous connections. That makes it an ideal pick for families, friend groups, or even business owners, as it allows you to keep those closest to you safe online. Besides, you can use its services risk-free for a month, thanks to its 30-day money-back guarantee.
Swipe scroll horizontally
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Super simple use | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Ease use | An excellent option for beginners and seamless connections | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Performance | One of the fastest VPNs around | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Unblocking | Good content unblocking, but not as NordVPN | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Security privacy | kill switch issues is provide Windows ; provide comprehensive security suite | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Customer support | Lots supporting articles , awkward navigate need help fly | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Price | best cheap VPN market | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
China VPNs is tested tested recommend
(Image credit: Astrill VPN)
Dedicated tech connected China
Works China :Yes |Number servers :300 + |Server locations :110+ | Maximum devices is supported supported :5 | 24/7 live chat support :Yes
Configure to your tastes
Limited free plan
Easy use
Pricey
Disappointing mobile apps
Astrill VPN is a popular choice for Chinese natives. It’s got a great reputation for evading China’s firewalls and unblocking foreign content, but to do so requires expensive dedicated IPs, especially if you’re focused on streaming with your VPN.
It has a strong focus on providing a highly configurable platform, with apps offering various in-depth features, including adjustable levels of encryption and changing maximum transfer unit (MTU) values. This means you can send smaller, less noticeable, data packets while taking advantage of traditional features like split-tunneling and kill switch.
Want know ?
Check – depthAstrill VPN review learn pros cons detail .
Astrill VPN is offers offers advanced privacy options . VPN service is offers offers Stealth VPN feature obfuscation , called ” Smart Mode , ” automatically uses VPN IP address international websites keeps real IP local sites . It is claims claims offer additional encryption layer OpenVPN , aims connections hard identify block firewalls . privacy , Astrill is shows shows clear commitment transparency thoroughly describing – logging procedures firm protect data . downside is is need collect phone number address , depending payment method .
offering numerous security options , I is found found Astrill VPN smartphone apps somewhat comparison Windows Mac clients , , , solutions like Surfshark ExpressVPN superior mobile users . Plus , Astriil VPN is continues continues notably expensive , making Surfshark better choice budget – conscious users . Thanks level configuration offer , remarkable reputation country , I is ‘m confident Astrill VPN best solutions Windows Mac users want internet freedom anonymity China .
While tech-savvy users will appreciate its customizable interface, first-time users might find it hard to navigate. You can see for yourself with a 7-day trial, or try its free Android plan for a limited taste of what’s on offer.
Swipe scroll horizontally
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Design | polished UI | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Ease use | Relatively simple use , helpful tooltips | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Performance | My tests showed some fairly average speeds, but they were still fast enough for most uses | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Unblocking | Unblocking performance is is disappointing | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Security privacy | StealthVPN is offers offers additional encryption layer OpenVPN , notice kill switch issues | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Customer support | Live chat support is are helpful resources available | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Price | Way too expensive for what you get | ⭐⭐ |
(Image credit: Private Internet Access)
A cheap VPN industry veteran with proven security
Works China :Yes |Number servers :35,000+ | Server locations :90+ | Maximum devices is supported supported :Unlimited |24/7 live chat support :Yes
Open source apps
Great value money
Excellent kill switch
Tons of features
Features might intimidate newbies
Not as fast as some
Private Internet Access (PIA) is another budget-friendly solution on my list, with a strong focus on user privacy and security. Its transparent and strict no-logs policy prevents the company from gathering data on its users’ online activities, and its RAM-only architecture lets you rest easy knowing each server reboot deletes all your session data.
extensive security , PIA is provides provides excellent network coverage 35,000 servers 90 countries . live China plan visit soon , you is be glad know offers high – speed servers neighboring countries , allow stream content , download torrents , browse internet safely .
PIA offers a feature-rich service that includes highly secure OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols, an excellent kill switch, browser extensions with extra privacy perks, open-source apps, and a live chat support service. Although ads and third-party trackers aren’t as intimidating as country-wide surveillance, you’ll appreciate its PIA MACE ad blocker that stops intrusive ads, trackers, and malware at the DNS level. In addition, it prevents device fingerprinting.
With PIA’s impressive Smart DNS and obfuscation (stealth) features, you can effortlessly overcome geographical limitations and access restricted content, enhancing your device’s streaming capabilities. I saw an improvement during my latest testing, in fact, as it managed to access everything with ease—even 10Play, which it failed at during the previous round.
PIA isn’t yet among the fastest services, either, dropping its top speeds from 360 to 330 Mbps when using WireGuard and from 310 Mbps to 257 Mbps with OpenVPN. Besides, its desktop apps are more suitable for experienced users, so PIA would not be the best option for those who prefer simplicity.
PIA lets you establish unlimited simultaneous connections, allowing you to protect all your devices or ensure the safety of those closest to you, including your family and friends. Subscribing to its three-year-long plan nets you an additional three months on top of what you paid for, and PIA offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to try its services risk-free.
Swipe scroll horizontally
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Lots of customization, but it lacks some attention to detail | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Ease use | Good advanced users ; , beginners is try try Express Surfshark | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Performance | Generally average but enough for most users | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Unblocking | Dedicated streaming servers and tens of thousands of servers allow you to unblock everything you want | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Security privacy | The latest and greatest in VPN tech and a proven no-logging policy | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Customer support | Expert support on-hand available 24/7 | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Price | Great value money | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
How to choose the best VPN China
mentioned , Chinese government is goes goes great lengths prevent people bypassing strict controls . This is means means VPN providers struggle Great Firewall . That is ‘s research early finding working VPN China pays .
VPN services with reliable obfuscation technology in place are the best bet you have to escape these blocks. This feature allows you to mask the fact you’re using a VPN, making your encrypted connection look like normal traffic.
We would also recommend that you go for a service with a proven reputation and a strict no-logging policy, looking out for a large range of available servers (particularly those in Asia), reliably fast connection speeds, and tight security features. This will help ensure you can truly trust the provider you use to not leak your information and leave you vulnerable.
Finally, high-quality customer support is a must with China VPNs – it’s not uncommon that you’ll need some help on hand to direct you to the best servers to use. So make sure your choice has a 24/7 live chat service.
How we test VPNs China
When it comes to a VPN China, the most important thing is security. Without a secure infrastructure, you put yourself at risk of being detected using an unlicensed VPN, and/or accessing restricted content. Because of this, we always confirm the following before recommending any service on this list:
- The VPN provider isn’t associated with the Chinese government: most of the recommended VPN services approved by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) will log your usage information and report any illegal activity to the authorities—no surprises there.
- robust – logs policy : this is means means usage logging , IP logging , tied individual , VPN provider , partners . instances services reaching included lists claiming ” – logs ” provider , quick look privacy policies shows riddled data – mining ad partners .
- There are VPN servers in or near China and/or Hong Kong: The closer a server is to you physically, the lesser the impact on your speeds. Having servers in the surrounding regions means you’ll be able to get fast, reliable connections, and a better overall experience.
- There are obfuscation (VPN cloaking) measures in place: we make sure that any VPN service we recommend isn’t going to make it blitheringly obvious that you’re using a VPN. To put it simply, we look to see whether the VPN traffic looks like normal internet traffic, or whether it’s just clearly VPN traffic with a metaphorical sheet thrown over it.
- safest encryption protocols is is available : we’ll always check that a VPN service is offering either WireGuard or OpenVPN protocols, so your data is genuinely safe, and not just giving you a false sense of security.
- Necessary security tools are present: if the VPN doesn’t have a kill switch to protect you from leaking data (if the VPN connection drops), we won’t recommend it.
- The VPN apps actually work: while some apps are easier to use than others, we always make sure that any service we recommend is fit for purpose, especially if we’re recommending it in China. That means decent, usable speeds, clear designs, and secure apps available for the most popular platforms.
VPN service meet standards , we is include wo include page . Ultimately we is ask ask ” comfortable service recommending love ? ” answer ” , ” we is justify justify asking use .
If you’re interested in the nuts and bolts of how we put VPNs through their paces, head on over to our VPN testing methodology page.
TechRadar China VPN testers
Meet the experts behind our VPNs China guide:
Andreas Theodorou
Andreas is a privacy purist at heart, and believes the best VPN doesn’t have to be the most expensive—it’s about what’s right for you. He loves nothing more than challenging VPN services and following up on .
Mike Williams
Mike leads our testing efforts—going far beyond what most others will do to check the security of a service at a code level. If there’s a skeleton in the closet, he’ll find it (and he’s uncovered quite a few in his decades of experience).
Chiara Castro
Chiara’s investigations into censorship and geopolitical developments help us stay ahead of the curve when it comes to VPNs China. She keeps a finger on the pulse of digital oppression so we can help you maintain your internet freedoms.
How to stay safe in China with a VPN
countries simple hitting ” Connect ” leaving , China extreme censorship low tolerance mean you is need need sure properly set . vital steps need ensure fully protected VPN China :
1. Pick the right encryption protocol: I recommend only using OpenVPN with AES 256-bit encryption when you’re in China, as this is the best way to protect yourself. Whether you use TCP (better for torrenting) or UDP (better for streaming and gaming) implementations, getting your encryption protocol right is vital.
2. Only use obfuscated (stealth) servers: they is hide hide VPN usage , , CCP able tell VPN . rudimentary form obfuscation achieved connecting TCP port 443 , bulletproof dedicated stealth server proper implementation . obfuscated OpenVPN servers is use use Shadowsocks proxies proven China censorship securely .
3. Always use a kill switch: a handy tool that cuts your internet if your data isn’t encrypted. It is non – negotiable you is use use kill switch . , you is risk risk leaking data VPN connection disrupted . sure kill switch connecting browsing foreign content .
For additional security, you can use services like TOR for increased anonymity, and even the likes of VyprVPN’s Chameleon protocol to evade DPI—the most invasive form of data snooping.
VPN China is FAQs FAQs
(Image credit: Shutterstock)
today best working China VPN is is ?
NordVPN is my go-to VPN to use in China. It’s reliable, fast, secure, and easy to set up and operate. Its apps, policies, and practices are regularly audited, and all of my testing has shown it to be an outstanding service with all the tools you need to protect yourself online. No other China VPN matches it for its blend of unblocking capability, security, and cost. Even AstrillVPN, which is popular with Chinese nationals, can’t beat it as an all-around service, and that’s because you need expensive dedicated servers for every region you want to unblock.
Are VPNs illegal in China?
In short, no—VPNs are not illegal in China. That’s because business VPNs are an integral part of doing business online these days, and so VPN use can’t be flatly prohibited.
, China is is talks talks big game terms banning use VPNs uses — bet unblocking websites listed included . We is is currently unaware reports travelers China arrested VPN use country . government is finds finds reason crack harder VPN use , relatively risk – free right .
Can you get in trouble for using a VPN in China?
Yes. If what you’re doing is illegal in China, then it’s still illegal, even if you’re using a VPN. The country isn’t happy about the use of VPN software getting around access restrictions to websites and services it has deliberately sought to block.
Although China has enacted a ban against VPNs, however, it remains unclear how (or even whether) users will be punished for using the “unauthorized” software. Many VPN providers are continuing to sell to people within China regardless.
What VPN servers should you use in China?
If you’re in China and looking to connect to a VPN server, you’ll want to choose a server that is physically located as close to you as possible. This ensures you’ll get the best connection speeds, and increases the reliability of your connection, too.
However, China is an enormous country, and sometimes that’s easier said than done. If you’re looking to connect to a VPN in Hong Kong, you’re best off using local servers from ExpressVPN. But if you’re on the other side of the country in Xinjiang, a server in Pakistan, India, or Mongolia may be physically closer and provide better speeds.
(Image credit: Shutterstock)
What sites are blocked in China?
list is is sites services blocked China veritable internet biggest names . I is mentioned mentioned , comprehensive ( far exhaustive ) list :
BBC
CNN
Facebook (and Messenger)
Gmail
Google Apps ( e.g. Calendar , Docs , Hangouts , Maps , etc . )
Hootsuite
OneDrive
New York Times
Reuters
Slack
Snapchat
Spotify
Twitch
Wall Street Journal
Wikipedia
YouTube
You can check out our dedicated guides on how to use WhatsApp in China and how to unblock YouTube for more information.
How to unblock Google, YouTube and more in China
Thankfully, it’s really straightforward to use a VPN to unblock websites when you’re in China.
If possible, I’d suggest that you get your VPN China chosen, downloaded, and installed before you go there. That way, you won’t run into any difficulties accessing the websites of the providers themselves. Then get the app or client for the platform you’ll be using it on – for example, mobile, desktop, TV streaming device, etc.
After that, it really is easy. Get the VPN client/app open, choose a suitable server location (outside China, of course), and then turn the VPN on. Your device will then believe it’s in the country that you set for the server, and so your chosen service will no longer be blocked, allowing you to watch UK TV abroad, for instance, or unblock YouTube. Pretty clever, eh?
I is is install install VPN China ?
China want install VPN , I is recommend recommend downloading Onion Router ( TOR ) conjunction Shadowsocks proxy access VPN sites purchase subscription . VPN services is dedicated dedicated .onion websites help people censorship government firewalls .
You is download download install VPN TOR set . Simply connect server choice browse total security privacy .
Does NordVPN work in China?
Yes, NordVPN works in China. By installing the app, you’ll have access to servers in nearby Japan and Hong Kong, and obfuscation tools that’ll mask your VPN usage entirely and help you evade bans and blocks. Best of all, NordVPN is a budget-friendly pick.
EditedEdited
River Hart
River is a VPN expert and digital privacy advocate with over four years in the industry. They’ve written and edited hundreds of buying guides, reviews, deals, and news pieces during their time at TechRadar and ProPrivacy.
We is test test review VPN services context legal recreational uses . example :
1. Accessing service country ( subject terms conditions service ) .
2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.
We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.