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Best China VPN: Our 4 Top Picks for Secure Browsing in 2024
As a long-term digital nomad and frequent visitor to China, I reviewed the best VPNs for China to help you arrive at a decision.
- NordVPN – The ultimate choice for secure-browsing in China
- ExpressVPN – Premium protected internet browsing in China
- Surfshark – Solid NoBorders mode to bypass restrictions in China
- CyberGhost – Highly affordable if less reliable Chinese VPN option
QUICK SUMMARY
- Not all VPNs can navigate the strict internet censorship in China, but a number of providers can help you access the internet securely without fear of reprisals.
- Install your VPN of choice before you arrive in China to ensure that you have it on your device ahead of time.
I’ve researched the best VPNs for China in 2024. Many popular websites and services are blocked in China due to strict internet censorship. This makes accessing content from outside the country difficult for residents and visitors.
A reliable VPN can help bypass these restrictions and access blocked sites in China. I’ll share my top picks for VPNs that work well to get around the Great Firewall. I’ll compare key features like speed, security, and ability to unblock content. My goal is to help you choose a VPN that fits your needs for use in China.
Expert tip:
For those wanting to access the internet in China, I recommend NordVPN – it’s safe, secure and has a strict no-log policy.
My pick of the best VPNs for China
1. NordVPN - The ultimate choice for China
NordVPN is my top pick for a VPN in China. It works well to bypass the Great Firewall and access blocked sites.
NordVPN offers fast speeds, which is great for streaming and downloads. It has servers in nearby countries like Japan and Singapore for better performance.
I’ve found NordVPN reliable for accessing Western social media, news sites, and streaming services while in China. Its obfuscated servers help hide VPN traffic from detection.
NordVPN’s apps are easy to use on different devices. The kill switch and leak protection add extra security.
Key features:
- Obfuscated servers to bypass restrictions
- Fast speeds for streaming and downloads
- Servers in 59+ countries
- Up to 6 device connections
- 24/7 live chat support
NordVPN isn’t perfect, but it’s a solid choice for China. The large server network provides many options if some get blocked.
I recommend installing NordVPN before arriving in China. This makes it easier to use right away.
2. ExpressVPN - Protected internet browsing in China
ExpressVPN is a top choice for use in China. I’ve found it consistently works well to bypass restrictions and access blocked sites.
The speeds are very good, even when connecting from within China. This makes it great for streaming videos or making video calls back home.
ExpressVPN has servers in nearby countries like Hong Kong, Japan, and Singapore. These close locations help maintain faster connections.
I like that ExpressVPN works on many devices. I can use it on my phone, laptop, and tablet with no issues.
The apps are simple to set up and use. This is handy when dealing with China’s tricky internet situation.
Key features I appreciate:
- Strong encryption to keep data private
- Kill switch to prevent data leaks
- Split tunneling to choose which apps use the VPN
- 24/7 live chat support
- 30-day money-back guarantee
ExpressVPN costs a bit more than some options. But I think the reliable performance in China makes it worth it for many users.
Expert take:
“Accessing the internet in China is different than in many other countries. The Chinese government heavily controls what people can see and do online. This is called the “Great Firewall of China”. Many popular websites and services are blocked, making it hard to access information freely.
In general people in China have limited access to information and their online privacy is at risk. VPN usage is strongly recommended.”
3. Surfshark - a solid NoBorders mode to bypass restrictions in China
Surfshark is a top choice for using a VPN in China. I’ve found it to work reliably for bypassing restrictions and accessing blocked content.
Surfshark offers fast speeds that are great for streaming and browsing. It has servers in nearby countries like Japan and Singapore, which helps with performance.
I like that Surfshark allows unlimited device connections. This lets me use it on my phone, laptop, and tablet at the same time.
The app is easy to use on different devices. It has a kill switch to protect your data if the VPN disconnects.
Surfshark works well for streaming services like Netflix. It can also unblock social media and news sites in China.
Key features:
- NoBorders mode to bypass restrictions
- Camouflage mode to hide VPN use
- CleanWeb for blocking ads and malware
- 24/7 live chat support
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Surfshark is budget-friendly compared to other top VPNs. It’s a good value option for using a VPN in China.
4. CyberGhost - a highly affordable if unreliable Chinese VPN option
CyberGhost doesn’t reliably work in China. It lacks the advanced obfuscation features needed to bypass China’s strict internet controls.
For users in China, I recommend looking at other VPN options. CyberGhost’s servers in nearby countries like Japan and Singapore offer limited workarounds, but connections are often unstable.
CyberGhost does have some positives. It provides fast speeds on its global server network. The apps are user-friendly for streaming and torrenting outside of China.
Key features include:
- 7,400+ servers in 91 countries
- Apps for all major devices
- 45-day money-back guarantee
- 24/7 live chat support
- Allows 7 simultaneous connections
While not ideal for China, CyberGhost works well for general privacy and accessing geo-blocked content in most other countries. The no-logs policy and Romanian jurisdiction are privacy plusses.
For China specifically, I suggest VPNs with stronger obfuscation. Look for providers that actively maintain servers and protocols that can bypass the Great Firewall.
Testing Methodology
When evaluating various VPNs for China, several critical factors were taken into account to ensure maximum privacy and security.
Our approach and testing methodology include:
- Security Features: A strict commitment to user privacy was mandatory. Only VPNs that enforce a no-logs policy, ensuring user activity remains untraceable, were chosen. Advanced encryption standards such as AES-256 were non-negotiable requirements.
- Application Reliability: User experience hinges on the dependability of the VPN software. The selected VPNs needed to provide robust applications that are not only easy to navigate but also maintain strong connections without compromising speed.
- Comprehensive Leak Protection: Each service underwent rigorous IP and DNS leak testing to verify that no user information was susceptible to interception.
- Cost-Effectiveness: While privacy shouldn’t come at a premium, the recommended VPNs deliver excellent functionality at a reasonable price, ensuring users receive good value.
- Optimized for China: Special attention was given to VPNs that feature a zero-logging policy, employ solid encryption methods, and support high-speed protocols such as WireGuard, which is conducive to high-quality video calls.
The recommended VPN services differ from many on the market in that they have been through an independent audit, providing an additional layer of trust and transparency.
This scrutiny confirmed the absence of logs and the presence of diskless servers, allowing for the immediate removal of all data in exigent circumstances.
Utilizing these criteria, the goal was to identify VPNs that not only promise but also deliver an environment where users can access Chinese servers worry-free, shielded from potential security breaches and with their privacy intact.
Our top 4 picks have demonstrated their effectiveness and reliability throughout extensive testing procedures.
Easy VPN Setup for China: 3 Steps
Install your VPN Application of choice: Personally I go for VPNs such as NordVPN for its strong security features, user-friendly interface, and swift performance across local and international servers. A 30-day trial period allows testing without financial commitment.
Server Connection: I pick a server in the location that I want to browse from.
Engage in Secure Online Activities: With the VPN running, I securely engage in activities like streaming from within China.
Why Use a VPN in China
A VPN is a crucial tool for internet users in China. It helps bypass censorship, access blocked sites, protect privacy, and stay connected while traveling. Let’s explore the key reasons to use a VPN in China.
Internet Censorship
China’s internet is heavily restricted. The government blocks many popular websites and apps. This system is known as the Great Firewall. It limits access to social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. News sites like The New York Times and BBC are also blocked. Even Google and its services are off-limits.
A VPN helps me get around these restrictions. It lets me browse the internet freely, just like I would in other countries. With a VPN, I can stay in touch with friends and family through blocked social media. I can also keep up with news from trusted international sources.
Accessing Restricted Websites
Many websites I use daily are not available in China without a VPN. These include:
- Streaming services (Netflix, YouTube, Spotify)
- Productivity tools (Google Docs, Dropbox)
- Communication apps (WhatsApp, Telegram)
A VPN allows me to access these sites by making it seem like I’m browsing from another country. This is especially helpful for work or study. I can use my usual tools and resources without interruption.
Security and Privacy
Internet surveillance is common in China. The government can monitor online activities. This puts my personal data at risk. A VPN encrypts my internet traffic, making it harder to track or steal my information.
Public Wi-Fi networks in China are often unsecured. This makes them easy targets for hackers. A VPN adds an extra layer of security when I’m using public Wi-Fi in cafes, hotels, or airports.
Some VPNs also offer additional security features:
- Ad blockers
- Malware protection
- Double VPN encryption
These tools help keep my devices and data safe while browsing.
A Tool for Travelers
As a traveler in China, a VPN is essential. It helps me:
- Book flights and accommodations on international websites
- Access my online banking from home
- Use map services like Google Maps
A VPN also lets me stay in touch with people back home through familiar apps. I can share my travel experiences on social media in real-time.
For business travelers, a VPN ensures access to company resources and communication tools. This allows for smooth work operations even when in China.
Key Features to Look for in a VPN for China
When choosing a VPN for China, I focus on a few critical factors. These include server locations, connection speed, and data encryption. Each plays a vital role in providing a secure and reliable VPN experience.
Server Locations
Server locations are crucial for a VPN’s effectiveness in China. I look for VPNs with servers in nearby countries like Hong Kong, Japan, Taiwan and Singapore. These closer servers often provide better speeds. I also check for servers in popular locations like the US and UK. This helps access geo-restricted content.
NordVPN stands out with its large network. It has over 5200 servers in 59 countries. This gives lots of options for connecting from China. I’ve found that more server choices mean better chances of finding a fast, stable connection.
Some VPNs offer special features for China. For example, Surfshark has its NoBorders mode. This helps bypass China’s internet restrictions.
Connection Speed
Speed is key for a good VPN experience. Slow speeds can make browsing frustrating. I always test VPN speeds before committing.
NordVPN and Surfshark are known for fast speeds. This is important for streaming and downloading. Fast speeds also help with video calls and online gaming.
VPNs with WireGuard protocol often have the best speeds. This new protocol is faster than older ones like OpenVPN. It’s also more efficient on mobile devices.
I avoid free VPNs for China. They often have slow speeds and limited data. Paid VPNs usually offer better performance and unlimited data.
Data Encryption
Strong encryption is a must for privacy and security. I look for VPNs that use AES-256 encryption. This is the industry standard and very secure.
VPNs should also offer a kill switch. This cuts internet if the VPN drops, protecting your data. Split tunneling is another useful feature. It lets you choose which apps use the VPN.
I prefer VPNs with a no-logs policy. This means they don’t keep records of your online activity. ExpressVPN and NordVPN have been audited to confirm their no-logs claims.
Some VPNs offer extra security features. These might include double VPN or Tor over VPN. While not always needed, they can add extra protection in high-risk situations.
Legalities of Using a VPN in China
Using a VPN in China is a bit of a gray area legally. The government hasn’t officially banned VPNs, but they don’t exactly approve of them either. Many people in China use VPNs anyway to access blocked sites and apps.
From what I’ve seen, most Chinese citizens and visitors use VPNs without facing any real consequences. The government seems to focus more on blocking VPN services than going after individual users.
If you do get caught using a VPN in China, the worst that usually happens is:
- Your VPN gets blocked
- You might get a warning
- Your internet access could be temporarily cut off
In rare cases, there have been fines for unauthorized VPN use. But I haven’t heard of any tourists or expats facing serious legal trouble just for using a VPN.
That said, it’s smart to be discreet about VPN use in China. I’d avoid openly discussing it or using it for anything illegal. Sticking to reputable VPN services is also a good idea for safety and reliability.
FAQs about Chinese VPNs
VPNs are important tools for internet access in China. People have many questions about which ones work best for different devices and situations.
What are the top-rated VPN services for iPhone users in China?
NordVPN and ExpressVPN are great choices for iPhones in China. They have user-friendly iOS apps with strong security features. These VPNs can unblock popular sites and apps that are restricted in China.
Can you recommend reliable free VPNs that work in China?
I don’t recommend free VPNs for China. They often have weak security and slow speeds. Free VPNs may also sell user data. It’s safer to use a low-cost paid VPN like Surfshark instead.
What is the most effective VPN for Android devices in China?
NordVPN works well on Android phones in China. It has fast speeds and strong encryption. The Android app is easy to use and includes a kill switch for extra protection.
Are there any VPNs that consistently work in China this year?
ExpressVPN and NordVPN have worked well in China this year. They use obfuscation to hide VPN traffic. This helps them bypass Chinese internet blocks more often than other VPNs.
How do I choose the best VPN for China despite internet restrictions?
Look for VPNs with obfuscated servers and strong encryption. Check if they offer money-back guarantees. Read recent user reviews from people in China. Test the VPN before your trip if possible.
What reports are there about ExpressVPN’s functionality in China?
Many users say ExpressVPN works in China most of the time. It can unblock social media and streaming sites. Some report occasional connection issues. ExpressVPN’s support team helps users troubleshoot China-specific problems quickly.
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