Are you planning to travel to China and stay connected with the world? Navigating the digital barriers can be tricky due to the Great Firewall. Using the right VPN can help you access blocked sites and ensure your privacy. With several options available, choosing the best one can be confusing.
In this post, we’ll help you pick the best VPNs for China. We focus on speed, security, and ease of use so you won’t miss out on your favorite websites.
Let’s ensure you stay connected and secure while you’re exploring China.
Top 9 Best VPNs for China in 2025
Here is a list of the best VPNs for China in 2025, each excelling in different areas:
- Proton VPN: Best Overall for China
- Astrill VPN: Best for Multi-hop Connections
- VyprVPN: Best for Bypassing Censorship
- PrivateVPN: Best for Simple User Interface
- Hotspot Shield: Best for Streaming
- Lantern: Best for Free User Experience
- Freegate: Best for Non-profit and Activists
- Amnezia VPN: Best for Open Source Enthusiasts
- Psiphon: Best for Free Censorship Circumvention
Each of these VPNs has unique benefits that make them ideal for use in China. They offer features tailored to different user needs, from strong security protocols to easy access and affordability. Our aim is to help you find the VPN that meets your specific requirements while ensuring reliable and secure internet access.
Proton VPN
Proton VPN is known for its promising feature set, which is designed to enhance security and privacy. We have broken it down into key aspects that should inform your choice.
Pros & Cons
- Strong encryption protocols
- No-logs policy
- Allows multi-hop connections
- Offers free plan with limited features
- It can be slow on some servers
- Limited server locations
- Slightly higher cost for premium plans
Our Experience
Using Proton VPN, we appreciated its focus on privacy. The no-logs policy means they don’t store browsing history, which is a big plus for privacy-conscious users. The encryption methods are reliable, ensuring data is secure even on public Wi-Fi.
Navigating through the app was intuitive. The ability to use multi-hop connections provided an extra layer of security, although this sometimes led to slower speeds. The split tunneling feature was handy, letting us choose which apps use the VPN.
On the downside, the performance might dip during peak times, especially on free servers. While they offer a solid free plan, it’s limited to a few server locations, and connections could occasionally be unstable.
Despite these issues, the overall experience was positive, particularly for those prioritizing security.
Pricing Plan
Proton VPN offers various pricing tiers. The free plan is quite basic but adequate if security is your primary concern without needing extensive server access. The paid plans are more comprehensive:
- Basic Plan: Approximately $4 per month, billed annually
- Plus Plan: Around $8 per month, offering more features and servers, billed annually
- Visionary Plan: $24 per month, includes ProtonMail Visionary
Each plan comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, providing protection for those who want to try it out risk-free. These plans cater to different needs, from basic browsing to more secure, multi-server connections.
Astrill VPN
Astrill VPN is known for its strong performance in China. It navigates the internet restrictions with ease and offers different protocols tailored for better connectivity and speed.
Pros & Cons
- Reliable and consistent performance in China
- Multiple protocol options like WireGuard and StealthVPN
- Good server coverage near China
- Higher pricing compared to some competitors
- Interface might seem complicated for beginners
Our Experience
Using Astrill VPN, we found it to be very reliable when accessing blocked sites in China. It offers several protocol choices, including WireGuard and StealthVPN, which are crucial for maintaining connection stability in restricted regions.
The speeds were impressive, allowing us to stream content smoothly, even in high definition.
However, the interface can be overwhelming for users new to VPNs. Despite this, the setup process is quite straightforward after the initial adjustment. Customer support is responsive, providing valuable help when troubleshooting minor connection issues.
Pricing Plan
Astrill VPN is on the pricier side, which might deter budget-conscious users. The monthly plan is around $20, which is higher than many others.
However, there are discounts for long-term subscriptions: a six-month plan costs about $15/month, and a yearly plan costs approximately $12.50/month. These prices provide better value for regular use in high-censorship regions.
VyprVPN
VyprVPN has become a popular choice for accessing the internet in China due to its effective use of technology, which helps users bypass rigorous internet censorship. Its key features include the Chameleon protocol, strong security, and reliable speeds. This makes it suitable for users needing consistent access to restricted sites and platforms.
Pros & Cons
- Chameleon protocol to bypass restrictions
- Owns its server network for increased security
- Fast speeds with WireGuard protocol
- Higher monthly cost compared to competitors
- No longer allows anonymous payment methods
Our Experience
Our experience with VyprVPN in China was mostly positive. The installation was fast and the app’s interface was intuitive. Using the Chameleon protocol, we managed to connect without issues, even in regions with strict censorship.
This protocol helps scramble VPN metadata, providing protection against deep packet inspection.
Speed was one of VyprVPN’s strong points, especially with the WireGuard protocol. Streaming and browsing were smooth, with minimal buffering. However, the cost might be a concern for budget-conscious users.
The lack of anonymous payment options like Bitcoin reduces privacy, but overall data security was excellent with AES-256 encryption.
Despite the higher price, the seamless experience and strong security measures potentially justify the investment for those needing reliable service in China.
Pricing Plan
VyprVPN offers different plans to suit various needs. As of November 2024, the plans are:
- Monthly Plan: $10.00 per month
- Annual Plan: $60.00 per year (equivalent to $5.00 per month)
There’s a significant discount if you choose the annual plan. These plans come with the same high-quality service and features, allowing users to select based on their budget and duration of stay in China.
However, given the competitive VPN market, it pays to compare these prices with alternatives to ensure you’re getting the best value for your needs.
PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN offers reliable access in China, with strong encryption and decent speeds. It’s particularly known for its ability to unblock various content and its user-friendly interface.
Pros & Cons
- Strong encryption
- User-friendly apps
- Reliable for bypassing restrictions
- Limited server network
- Inconsistent speeds
- Basic customer support
Our Experience
Using PrivateVPN in China, we found it effective in accessing restricted sites without major issues. The setup was straightforward, making it suitable even for those not tech-savvy.
We experienced fluctuations in speed, which occasionally affected streaming quality, but general browsing was smooth.
We appreciated the encryption, providing an added layer of security. The interface was intuitive, a definite plus for users who prefer simplicity.
On the downside, the server network felt somewhat limited, which could be restrictive for those needing multiple location options.
Customer support was basic but met essential needs, though improvement in responsiveness would enhance the overall experience.
Pricing Plan
PrivateVPN offers several pricing tiers that cater to varying durations. The current monthly plan costs $9.90, which is quite reasonable for the features provided.
For those looking for longer commitments, the three-month plan is available at $20.70, translating to $6.90 per month.
The most cost-effective option is the yearly plan, priced at $49.68, which breaks down to about $4.14 per month. This flexibility allows users to choose a plan that best fits their frequency of use and budget preferences.
Each package comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing users to test the service risk-free before fully committing.
Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield is a popular VPN that is known for its speed and user-friendly interface. It is particularly noted for its effectiveness in accessing geo-restricted sites in challenging environments like China.
Pros & Cons
- Fast connection speeds
- Wide range of server locations
- Effective at bypassing geoblocks in China
- Limited features in the free version
- Occasional connection drops in high-restriction areas
Our Experience
We had the chance to try Hotspot Shield during our analysis of VPNs for China. The service stood out because of its proprietary Catapult Hydra protocol, which helps maintain a fast connection and is crucial when servers face heavy restrictions.
The app was simple to set up and needed no technical knowledge, making it a good choice for any user.
The streaming quality was reliable, even on platforms like Netflix and Hulu, where other VPNs often fail. Despite some unreliable moments in highly censored regions, the service mostly held up well.
There were a few instances of dropped connections during heavy usage, but reconnecting was quick and simple.
Pricing Plan
Hotspot Shield offers a range of pricing plans to suit different user needs. The Basic version is free but comes with limitations. For more features, the Premium plan is available at about $12.99 per month or $95.88 annually, providing better value.
For families, there is a Family plan that covers five accounts at around $19.99 per month.
These plans offer unlimited data and access to more than 3,200 servers worldwide, making them suitable for consistent and secure browsing.
Lantern
Lantern is a tool aimed at helping users bypass internet restrictions, making it popular for users in regions with strict online censorship. It is known for its simplicity and quick installation process, providing access to blocked sites.
Pros & Cons
- Lightweight and easy to install
- Effective for bypassing censorship
- Free version available
- Limited features in the free version
- Not as secure as traditional VPNs
Our Experience
In our experience, Lantern is particularly useful for those looking for a simple solution to bypass internet censorship. It’s quick to set up and has a user-friendly interface. We found the performance to be reliable, with few disruptions when accessing blocked sites.
However, it is not designed to provide the same level of privacy and security as a full-scale VPN. While it successfully bypasses censorship, it doesn’t encrypt traffic the way typical VPNs like NordVPN or ExpressVPN do.
It’s perfect for users needing straightforward and immediate access to content but not for those who prioritize maximum security and anonymity online.
Pricing Plan
Lantern offers a free version which allows users to experience basic features. For those looking to upgrade, the Pro version is available at a reasonable cost.
The Pro plan enhances speed and includes additional features, priced at approximately $8 per month when billed annually. This plan is a practical option for those needing a little extra performance without committing to the higher fees of traditional VPN services.
These plans make Lantern accessible to a broad range of users, balancing cost with functionality.
Freegate
Freegate is a popular tool for bypassing internet censorship in countries like China. While it provides free access, there are important factors to consider, such as usability and limitations.
Pros & Cons
- Free to use
- Effective for bypassing internet restrictions
- Easy installation process
- Limited features compared to paid VPNs
- May experience slower speeds during peak times
- Lacks comprehensive tech support
Our Experience
When we used Freegate, we noticed its simplicity and ease of setup, which makes it accessible to most users. It effectively bypasses internet blocks, allowing access to restricted websites.
However, the connection speeds can be inconsistent, especially during high-traffic periods.
The software doesn’t offer as many advanced features as paid VPNs, like multi-hop connections or extensive global servers.
While it serves its purpose for basic uncensored browsing, it might not suffice for users with high data needs or those wanting more privacy features. We found it suited for casual browsing but not for intensive tasks like streaming or downloading large files.
Pricing Plan
Freegate stands out as a free tool, which is appealing to many users trying to navigate restrictive internet environments. Being completely free, it does not require any subscription fees, unlike its commercial counterparts.
However, this lack of a paid plan means there are limited resources for development and no customer support.
Users should weigh the benefits of cost-free access against the limitations this might impose. If advanced features and higher speeds are priorities, investing in a paid VPN service could be a better option.
Amnezia VPN
Amnezia VPN offers a mix of reliable performance and unique features. It is known for its flexibility in routing and good connectivity options, especially across various regions like Asia.
Pros & Cons
- Flexible routing options across multiple regions.
- Good performance with low latency.
- Ability to deploy over various cloud platforms.
- Privacy-focused features.
- It may require technical knowledge for setup.
- Limited support compared to larger providers.
- Coverage is less comprehensive in some areas.
Our Experience
Using Amnezia VPN has been satisfactory in terms of speed and reliability. We deployed it over regions like Hong Kong, Singapore, and Tokyo.
The connection was smooth and stable, with Singapore offering the best performance. Latency was impressively low, making streaming and browsing seamless.
One highlight is how Amnezia integrates with cloud platforms like Google Cloud and AWS. This provides more customization options, though it can be complex for those unfamiliar with such setups.
We’ve found that while it lacks the user-friendly interfaces of bigger providers, Amnezia compensates with flexibility and privacy-centric features.
Overall, our experience emphasizes the importance of having some technical inclination to fully exploit its capabilities.
Pricing Plan
Amnezia VPN operates differently regarding pricing, as it doesn’t fit into standard subscription models like many services. Instead, users can configure it on their preferred cloud platform, which means costs can vary.
This approach offers cost control but requires users to manage cloud service fees. Therefore, the cost depends heavily on the cloud provider’s rates and additional expenses for data usage and server uptime.
Users looking for exact numbers should consult the pricing pages of platforms like Google Cloud, AWS, and Oracle Cloud for the most current rates. This flexibility can be both an advantage and a hurdle depending on user needs and expertise.
Psiphon
Psiphon is a free VPN known for circumventing online censorship, making it useful in countries with heavy internet restrictions. It began as a project for bypassing censorship and has become an accessible option for users needing a basic VPN service.
Pros & Cons
- Free to use
- Open-source software
- Works well for bypassing censorship
- Limited security features
- Not the fastest option
- Not ideal for streaming due to slower speeds
Our Experience
We have found Psiphon to be quite useful when trying to access restricted content. Its ability to bypass censorship is strong, which is its main appeal. Using it in regions like China, we were able to visit sites typically blocked.
However, while using Psiphon, we noticed the speeds were inconsistent. This makes it less ideal for streaming and downloading large files. Security features are minimal compared to other VPNs, so it may not be suitable for those who prioritize online privacy.
The user interface is simple, which is good for beginners but might feel limiting for advanced users. The lack of customizable settings can be a drawback for those wanting more control over their VPN settings.
Pricing Plan
Psiphon is primarily free, which attracts many users looking for basic VPN services without financial commitments. A premium version is available for those needing faster speeds and no ads.
The premium service costs approximately $0.99 per week or $2.99 per month via in-app purchases. This pricing is quite affordable, making the premium upgrade an option if better performance is needed without spending too much.
Surfshark
Surfshark stands out as a budget-friendly VPN option that boasts a blend of speed and security, making it appealing to many users navigating internet restrictions. Its ability to unlock content smoothly is paired with a user interface that’s accessible for all levels of tech users.
Pros & Cons
- Affordable pricing
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Strong encryption and privacy features
- Reliable kill switch
- Excellent speed performance
- Occasional connectivity issues
- Fewer server locations compared to some competitors
- Customer support can be improved
Our Experience
In our hands-on experience with Surfshark, we found its performance in China to be notably effective. The connection speed impressed us, enabling smooth streaming and browsing with minimal lag.
The interface is intuitive, allowing easy setup and use even for those new to VPNs. One highlight is the unlimited device connections per account, perfect for families or users with multiple gadgets.
On the downside, we occasionally faced minor connectivity hiccups, especially during peak hours. While these were manageable, they did slightly disrupt our experience.
Another area for improvement is customer support, which, although helpful, can be slow to respond compared to some other providers.
Overall, its balance of speed, features, and price makes it a strong choice for those needing a reliable VPN in restrictive environments.
Pricing Plan
Surfshark offers competitive pricing plans that cater to various user needs. Currently, the pricing is structured as follows:
- Monthly Plan: $12.95 per month
- 6-Month Plan: $6.49 per month (billed $38.94 every 6 months)
- 24-Month Plan: $2.49 per month (billed $59.76 for the first 24 months)
These plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee, providing flexibility for users to try the service risk-free. The long-term plans are particularly budget-friendly, making Surfshark an attractive option for extended use.
Closing Thoughts
As we wrap up our discussion on VPNs for China, it’s clear that having a reliable service is crucial for internet freedom and security. NordVPN stands out as the top choice. It comes with fast speeds, advanced privacy features, and a large server network.
Using NordVPN, we can bypass restrictions easily and access the content we need. It also offers excellent support, which is reassuring for those who might encounter issues while setting up.
When choosing a VPN, we shouldn’t just look at the price. It’s important to think about speed, security, and user-friendliness. NordVPN offers a great balance among these factors, making it the most effective option for navigating online restrictions in China.
With our experiences and the feedback from users, it’s evident that NordVPN keeps our data secure and private. For anyone planning to stay connected while in China, this VPN is the best option.
How We Test and Review
When reviewing the best VPNs for China, we follow a detailed and systematic process. We start by scanning the market to identify popular options like NordVPN, Surfshark, ExpressVPN, and others. This initial phase helps us get a sense of what’s available and what features matter most to users.
After compiling a broad list, we narrow it down to a select few that show the most promise. Our selection includes a mix of well-established providers and promising newcomers. The finalists face off in our rigorous testing process, which puts their capabilities under close scrutiny.
- NordVPN
- ExpressVPN
- Surfshark
- VyprVPN
- PrivateVPN
- Astrill VPN
- Proton VPN
- Hotspot Shield
- Lantern
- Freegate
- Amnezia VPN
- Psiphon
We evaluate each VPN on criteria such as speed, security, ease of use, and ability to bypass restrictions in China. Speed tests check how well each service maintains performance during daily use. Security assessment involves testing encryption standards and features like kill switches.
Usability is also key. We check how intuitive the apps are and the support quality offered by each provider. Lastly, we test the VPNs in real-world scenarios in China to see how effectively they bypass government censorship.
Bringing all this information together, we create comprehensive reviews that help users make informed decisions. By testing each VPN under the same conditions, we ensure a fair comparison and reliable insights into how each service performs.
What is the best VPN for China?
Finding the best VPN for China can be tough, but we’ve got some options that still work. From what we’ve seen, Astrill VPN tops the list. It’s known for reliable connections in China, though it can be quite pricey. Its strength lies in coming through even when other VPNs fail.
Next up is Mullvad VPN. It’s great for getting past firewalls and staying anonymous. People often recommend it for its simplicity and focus on privacy, and it doesn’t require personal information to sign up.
While some still talk about ExpressVPN in this context, it’s worth mentioning that its performance can be hit or miss in China. It does offer obfuscated servers, which might help, but it’s not the most reliable option despite being user-friendly.
Interestingly, many users on platforms like Reddit mention using V2ray and Shadowsocks. These aren’t standard VPNs but may offer solutions for tech-savvy users looking for alternatives to commercial VPN services.
When traveling to China or living there, it’s crucial to pick a VPN that offers not just speed but also privacy and security. We encourage everyone considering a VPN for China to research and choose one based on features and current effectiveness.
For more ideas, Gizmodo offers insights on these VPNs, and Restore Privacy provides further analysis on their capabilities.
Benefits of VPN for China
Using a VPN in China offers several key benefits. One of the most significant is internet freedom. With a VPN, we can access websites and services that might be blocked due to China’s strict internet policies.
VPNs provide enhanced privacy. They allow us to browse the internet without worrying about being monitored. When we connect through a VPN, our online activities are masked, which is crucial in a country with heavy surveillance.
Security is another important advantage. VPNs protect our data by encrypting it, preventing hackers from accessing our personal information. This is essential when using public Wi-Fi, which can be susceptible to cyber-attacks.
Many VPNs offer speed and reliability, which ensures that we can enjoy seamless browsing and streaming. Providers like NordVPN and ExpressVPN are known for their consistent performance even in regions with internet restrictions.
Finally, using a VPN enables us to access international content. Whether it’s streaming platforms or news sites, a VPN lets us experience digital content as if we were in a different country.
Overall, a VPN is a valuable tool for maintaining our digital freedom and security in China.
What Features Should You Look for VPN for China?
When choosing a VPN for use in China, it’s crucial we focus on specific features that can bypass the Great Firewall and ensure privacy.
Encryption and Security
Our top priority is advanced encryption. We need VPNs that offer AES-256 encryption, ensuring that our data stays secure from prying eyes. It’s important the VPN has a no-logs policy to protect our browsing history.
Stealth Technology
VPNs with stealth technology are essential. This feature helps us stay under the radar by disguising VPN traffic as regular internet traffic. This makes it harder for Chinese censors to detect and block our connection.
Server Locations
Having access to servers in multiple countries is vital. We should look for VPNs with servers situated close to China, such as in Hong Kong or Taiwan, to maintain good speed and reliability.
Speed and Performance
We want a VPN that provides fast, consistent speeds. This is especially important for activities like streaming or video calls. Checking user reviews on speed can give us a sense of what to expect.
Customer Support
Reliable customer support is a must-have. If we encounter issues, we want to be sure there’s a support team ready to help, ideally with 24/7 availability.
Compatibility
Ensuring the VPN is compatible with various devices, from laptops to smartphones, is key. This means checking for apps available on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android platforms.
Focusing on these features will guide us in choosing a VPN that effectively meets our needs in China.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best VPN for China to bypass the Great Firewall?
NordVPN is often recommended due to its many servers and advanced protocols. It provides strong security and speed, making it a solid choice for bypassing restrictions. NordVPN’s extensive server network in nearby locations is advantageous for maintaining connection quality.
Can a VPN work in China to access blocked websites?
Yes, certain VPNs can bypass the restrictions in China and allow access to blocked websites like Facebook and YouTube. A VPN with strong unblocking capabilities ensures consistent access despite the government’s efforts to block them.
How do VPNs help with internet censorship in China?
VPNs provide an encrypted tunnel for internet traffic, which prevents authorities from seeing your online activities. This encryption helps users bypass censorship by masking browsing activities, keeping them hidden from the Great Firewall and other barriers.
What are the top features to look for in a VPN for China?
Key features include a large number of servers, strong encryption, and no logs policy to ensure privacy. Speed is also important for a seamless browsing experience. For example, Surfshark offers over 3200 servers, which aids in quickly bypassing firewalls.
Which VPN is the most reliable for unblocking services in China?
Astrill VPN is known for its reliability in unblocking services. Despite being the most expensive option, it is praised for its effectiveness and trustworthiness, consistently allowing access to restricted content which lesser VPNs often struggle with.
Are there any free VPNs that work in China?
Most free VPNs do not work effectively in China because they lack the advanced features needed to bypass the Great Firewall. For those interested in free options, it’s essential to be cautious and remember that many free VPNs compromise privacy and security.