Ever tried to stream your favorite show on a Chromebook, only to face those annoying regional blocks? Many of us use Chromebooks for their simplicity and portability, but when it comes to privacy and accessing content worldwide, a good VPN becomes essential. Finding the best VPN for Chromebooks can transform your browsing experience, offering security and unrestricted access to content.
In this guide, we’ve picked out top VPN options that are perfect for Chromebook users. Whether you’re looking for speed, ease of use, or affordability, we’ve got it covered.
Let’s explore these solutions to keep your online activities secure and seamless.
10 Best VPNs for Chromebook in 2024
- ExpressVPN: Best for Speed
- NordVPN: Best for Security
- Surfshark: Best for Unlimited Connections
- Proton VPN: Best for Privacy
- CyberGhost: Best for Streaming
- Private Internet Access: Best for Customization
- Mullvad VPN: Best for Anonymity
- Windscribe: Best for Free Plan
- TunnelBear: Best for Beginners
- VyprVPN: Best for Infrastructure Independence
Each of these VPNs has unique features that cater to different needs, making Chromebooks more secure.
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is known for its fast speeds, advanced privacy features, and ease of use. It offers a large server network, making it an excellent choice for streaming and secure browsing. Although it is on the pricier side, the quality it provides makes it a strong contender among VPNs for Chromebooks.
Pros & Cons
- High speeds with Lightway protocol.
- Extensive server network in over 100 countries.
- Strong security and privacy features.
- Includes a free password manager.
- More expensive than many other VPNs.
- Lacks some advanced security features found in competitors.
- No port forwarding option.
Our Experience
In our experience with ExpressVPN, we found the interface to be intuitive and easy to navigate. Setting up on a Chromebook was straightforward, requiring just a few clicks to download and install the Android app.
Once installed, the app’s main screen allows a quick one-tap connection to the nearest server, or users can easily select from a list of locations.
Performance-wise, ExpressVPN delivered consistently high speeds. Streaming services worked without buffering, and browsing felt seamless. The Lightway protocol enhanced speed while maintaining security.
However, when it came to blocking malware, we found that it wasn’t as effective as some other providers. The VPN excels in unblocking content across various platforms, which is a big plus for users looking to access different regions’ streaming libraries.
ExpressVPN’s commitment to privacy is evident in its no-logs policy and third-party audits. This reassures users about the safety of their data. Overall, our experience was positive, and the service’s benefits outweighed the few limitations we encountered.
Pricing Plan
ExpressVPN offers a range of pricing plans to suit different needs. As of now, the monthly plan costs $12.95, which can be considered steep. However, opting for a longer-term commitment reduces the cost significantly.
Their one-year plan is priced at $6.67 per month and provides a better value. While more expensive compared to some alternatives, the investment is justified if you prioritize speed and security.
All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing users to trial the service risk-free and decide if it meets their needs.
NordVPN
NordVPN is a top choice for Chromebook users due to its strong security features and extensive server network. It offers fast speeds and regular updates that enhance usability across platforms.
Pros & Cons
- Extensive server network in numerous countries
- Strong security with advanced encryption
- Fast connection speeds
- Regular updates and enhanced features
- Advanced features like Threat Protection Pro require a higher subscription tier
- Higher renewal costs after the first subscription
- Browser extension performance lags behind desktop apps
Our Experience
Our time with NordVPN has been overall positive, thanks to its simplicity and powerful features. Once installed on our Chromebook, it was quick to set up, making it hassle-free for both beginners and tech-savvy users.
The speeds impressed us, especially using the NordLynx protocol, maintaining smooth browsing and streaming experiences. Security features like the kill switch are efficient, adding enhanced protection for sensitive activities.
However, we noticed the browser extension, though functional, lacks some specialized server options and doesn’t match the speed of the full app. Despite these minor issues, the overall functionality and security offered by NordVPN made our experience rewarding.
Pricing Plan
NordVPN provides several pricing options, accommodating different budgets and needs.
- Standard Plan: Approximately $11.99 per month, with discounts on annual and bi-annual plans.
- Plus Plan: Starts around $13.99 per month, adding on features like the Data Breach Scanner.
- Complete Plan: Around $15.69 per month, offering full feature access including encrypted cloud storage.
Discounts make the long-term plans, such as the two-year option, a more economical choice, though be mindful of price increases upon renewal.
Surfshark
Surfshark is a popular VPN choice for Chromebook users, praised for its ease of use and security features. It offers unlimited device connections and strong encryption, making it a solid option for privacy-conscious users.
Pros & Cons
- Unlimited device connections
- Strong encryption and privacy
- Affordable pricing
- Limited advanced settings
- Slower speeds on some servers
Our Experience
We found Surfshark to be an accessible and reliable VPN. The installation on a Chromebook is straightforward, with a user-friendly interface. It offers reliable security with AES-256 encryption, ensuring online activities remain private.
Surfshark’s performance impressed us with its consistent connection and few dropouts. Despite occasional slower speeds on distant servers, most connections were fast enough for smooth streaming and browsing.
We appreciated its CleanWeb feature that blocks ads and malware.
However, for users seeking advanced customization, Surfshark might feel limited. The interface is streamlined, which may benefit new users but could leave advanced users wanting more.
Despite this, Surfshark stands out with its competitive pricing and strong security features.
Pricing Plan
Surfshark offers several pricing options to fit different budgets. Users can choose a monthly plan at approximately $12.95 per month, which provides the most flexibility but is the most expensive.
The one-year plan costs about $3.99 per month, billed annually, offering more value. The two-year plan is the most economical, priced at around $2.49 per month, billed every two years. This plan includes an extra two months for free.
These plans cover unlimited devices, making Surfshark a great deal for those with many gadgets. This flexibility and pricing make Surfshark a leading choice for users looking to secure their Chromebooks.
Proton VPN
Proton VPN is known for its strong privacy features and advanced security measures. It offers various configurations for users with different needs, such as accessing the Tor network or using split tunneling for selected apps.
Pros & Cons
- Strong encryption and privacy safeguards
- No-logs policy ensuring anonymity
- Access to the Tor network with just one click
- Split tunneling feature for more control
- Malware and ad blocking with NetShield
- Limited high-speed servers on the free plan
- Some advanced features require a premium subscription
- Initial setup can be confusing for beginners
Our Experience
Using Proton VPN on a Chromebook has been mostly positive. The setup process involved downloading an app from the Play Store, which was straightforward.
Once installed, the interface was user-friendly, showing clear options for connection and server selection. We appreciated the split tunneling feature, which allowed us to manage which apps used the VPN tunnel.
Connection speeds were reliable for everyday tasks, though some free servers experienced slower speeds during peak times. The ability to connect to the Tor network was a valuable feature for us, enhancing our online privacy effortlessly.
While Proton VPN excelled in security, we found that certain premium features like high-speed servers and expanded server locations provided even more benefits.
Pricing Plan
Proton VPN offers several pricing plans to suit different needs. The Free plan is available with limited speed and server locations, but still provides excellent security. For more features, the Basic plan starts at $4.99 per month, offering faster speeds and access to more servers.
The Plus plan, which includes advanced features like the Tor network and NetShield, is priced at $9.99 per month. Each plan includes a discount if you opt for an annual subscription, making Proton VPN an affordable choice for premium VPN capabilities.
CyberGhost
CyberGhost stands out for its user-friendly setup and reliable service on Chromebooks. It provides increased privacy and security, especially useful for those frequently using public networks.
Pros & Cons
- Easy setup on Chromebooks
- Strong privacy features
- No-log policy
- Excellent customer support
- Some servers can be slow
- Higher monthly cost without a long-term commitment
Our Experience
Using CyberGhost on our Chromebook was smooth and straightforward. The installation took only a few minutes, and the interface is intuitive, making it easy to find settings and features.
We were impressed by the dedicated servers optimized for various activities, including streaming and torrenting. This makes it ideal for watching content on platforms like Netflix without interruptions.
We did notice occasional drops in speed on some servers. However, switching servers usually resolved the issue quickly. The customer support team was responsive and helpful when we contacted them about any concerns.
The no-log policy also gave us confidence that our data remains private, which is crucial for anyone concerned about online security.
Pricing Plan
CyberGhost offers several pricing options, allowing flexibility based on your commitment length. The monthly plan costs approximately $12.99, while a 6-month plan is priced at $6.99 per month.
The best value comes with the 2-year plan, where the cost drops to about $2.19 per month. Each plan includes a 45-day money-back guarantee, providing a risk-free way to try out their services and see if they meet your needs.
Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a popular VPN choice for Chromebook users who need a balance of security, speed, and price. It features a user-friendly interface with strong encryption and privacy options. Below, we discuss its strengths and weaknesses, share our personal experience using it, and outline its pricing plans.
Pros & Cons
- Strong encryption and privacy policies
- Flexible pricing options
- Consistently fast connection speeds
- Compatible with Chromebook via an Android app
- Less intuitive user interface for beginners
- Speeds can vary depending on the server location
- Limited free options
Our Experience
Using Private Internet Access, we found the setup on Chromebooks straightforward. The Android app from the Google Play Store installs smoothly and integrates well with Chrome OS.
We appreciated the strong security features, including encryption and a strict no-logs policy. These elements offer protection for users concerned about privacy.
However, the interface can be a bit challenging to navigate for new users. Some features are hidden in deeper menus, which might require a learning curve.
Despite this, once familiar with the setup, connecting to different servers is straightforward. We also noticed that while the overall connection speed is fast, it does fluctuate with different regions.
Pricing Plan
Private Internet Access provides several pricing plans, ensuring flexibility for different needs. The monthly plan is priced around $11.95, offering a short-term commitment.
For those looking for savings, the one-year plan costs approximately $3.33 per month, billed annually at $39.95.
Lastly, their two-year plan offers the most value, priced at about $2.03 per month, billed $59.95 every two years. Each plan comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing users to try the service risk-free.
Mullvad VPN
Mullvad VPN is known for its strong commitment to privacy and ease of use, especially on Chromebooks. With features like split tunneling and an uncluttered interface, it’s designed for users who prioritize both security and simplicity.
Pros & Cons
- Strong privacy policies
- Easy-to-use interface
- Supports split tunneling
- Fewer servers compared to competitors
- Possible detection by websites
Our Experience
Using Mullvad VPN, we appreciated how easy it was to install on a Chromebook. Thanks to the Google Play Store, Android apps, including Mullvad, run smoothly. The interface was straightforward, which made navigating through settings hassle-free.
We felt secure while surfing the web because Mullvad is serious about privacy. The encryption and no-logs policy ensured our online activities stayed private.
One downside we noticed was the limited number of servers. This sometimes led to slower speeds during peak times. Additionally, some websites detected our VPN use, resulting in more captchas.
Despite these minor setbacks, we believe Mullvad is a solid choice for privacy-focused users.
Pricing Plan
Mullvad VPN offers a simple pricing plan of €5 per month, giving users flexibility without long-term commitments. Unlike other providers, Mullvad doesn’t offer discounts for long-term subscriptions.
Payments can be made through multiple methods, including credit cards and cryptocurrencies. This straightforward approach to pricing ensures users know exactly what they are paying for without surprises.
Windscribe
Windscribe is a reliable Virtual Private Network (VPN) option for Chromebook users. It offers a free version with decent features, including privacy protection and ease of use. Below, we discuss the specific advantages and challenges, our personal experience using Windscribe, and an overview of its pricing.
Pros & Cons
- Offers a free version with limited data
- Features both an Android app and Chrome extension
- Focuses on anonymity with policies against activity logging
- Strong privacy controls with ad and tracker blocking
- Easy setup and user-friendly interface
- Limited data on the free plan
- Speeds can vary depending on the server location
- Premium features are restricted to paid plans
Our Experience
When we tested Windscribe, the setup process was straightforward. We appreciated the Android app and Chrome extension, allowing flexibility in usage across different Chromebook models.
The interface was intuitive, making navigation easy, even for those new to VPNs.
Using Windscribe, we found that its privacy and security policies are reliable, ensuring online anonymity. Features like ad blocking and tracker prevention were impressive in enhancing browsing safety.
However, speed inconsistencies were notable, especially on congested servers or during peak hours.
While the free plan offers a taste of what Windscribe can do, data limits mean that heavy users might need to upgrade for a seamless experience. Overall, Windscribe provided reliable services with some room for improvement, particularly in connection speeds.
Pricing Plan
Windscribe offers a variety of pricing plans. The free plan includes 10GB of data per month and access to a few servers. For more extensive use, the Pro plan is available.
As of 2024, the Pro plan costs $9 per month if billed monthly. An annual subscription reduces the cost to approximately $49 per year, which averages out to about $4 per month. This plan unlocks unlimited data, faster speeds, and access to servers in over 60 countries.
The customizable Build-a-Plan option lets users select specific features, starting at $1 per location per month with a $3 minimum, offering a tailored VPN experience without paying for unnecessary features.
TunnelBear
TunnelBear is known for its strong privacy protection features and ease of use on Chromebooks. Users appreciate its reliable connection and user-friendly interface, making it a popular choice for those prioritizing privacy and simplicity.
Pros & Cons
- Easy to use
- Strong privacy features
- Free version available
- Limited server locations
- Free version data cap
Our Experience
Using TunnelBear on a Chromebook was straightforward. The setup was quick, and the interface is designed to be intuitive, which is great for users who are not tech-savvy.
We noticed that the connection speeds are generally stable, although it can slow down during peak times. This service has a whimsical touch to its design, which makes the user experience enjoyable.
While the free version is limited to 500MB of data per month, it’s sufficient for light browsing. Security features are solid, with no history of data leaks.
We felt secure using it on public Wi-Fi, and appreciated the app’s transparency about what it does to protect our data.
Pricing Plan
TunnelBear offers a free plan, which includes 500MB of data per month. For heavier usage, the paid plans provide unlimited data. The monthly plan costs around $9.99, while the annual plan priced at approximately $59.88 offers more savings.
There is also a Teams plan, aimed at businesses, with flexible pricing depending on the number of users. These plans make TunnelBear a reasonable choice for safeguarding internet browsing.
VyprVPN
VyprVPN is a highly trusted option for Chromebook users, offering proprietary technology and a user-friendly interface. Known for its strong security features and public transparency, this service is a solid choice for both casual users and privacy enthusiasts. Below, we explore its advantages, challenges, firsthand experience, and available pricing plans.
Pros & Cons
- Strong security features
- Publicly audited
- Proprietary servers
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Easy setup on Chromebook
- Limited server locations compared to some competitors
- Higher price points on shorter plans
Our Experience
Our experience with VyprVPN has been largely positive, especially in terms of security and privacy. It uses advanced encryption and proprietary servers to ensure our data is safe from prying eyes.
Setting it up on a Chromebook was straightforward, thanks to clear instructions for configuring L2TP/IPsec, as seen on their support page.
During our use, streaming was smooth, and speeds were consistent. However, we noted that there were fewer server choices compared to other major VPN services. This might limit access to certain regional content.
The customer support team was responsive and helpful. We felt secure knowing that VyprVPN has undergone a public audit, affirming its commitment to user privacy.
Pricing Plan
VyprVPN offers several pricing plans to meet different needs. As of now, the basic monthly plan is priced at $12.95. There’s also an annual option at $45 billed annually, which breaks down to $3.75 per month.
They also provide a 36-month plan at $54, equating to just $1.50 per month, making it a cost-effective choice for long-term users.
All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing us to test their service risk-free. These pricing structures provide flexibility for users on different budgets while still accessing high-quality VPN services.
Bottom Line
In our search for the best VPN for Chromebooks, ExpressVPN stands out as the top choice.
Reasons to Choose ExpressVPN:
- Ease of Use: It offers a user-friendly interface that’s perfect for both beginners and experienced users.
- Speed: Known for being one of the fastest options, it’s ideal for streaming and browsing.
- Security: Provides top-notch security features like 256-bit AES encryption.
Additionally, ExpressVPN is praised for its compatibility with Chromebooks through its seamless Android app integration.
Whether we’re connecting from home or on public Wi-Fi, we can count on ExpressVPN to keep our data secure. It handles both streaming and torrenting with ease, offering the best solution for various online activities.
Although there are many choices available, our assessment positions ExpressVPN as the best option when considering factors like usability, speed, and security, making it the winner in our evaluation.
Our Thorough Review Process
We take great care in evaluating the best VPNs for Chromebooks. First, we explored the market to identify the most popular and highly rated VPNs. Our initial list included:
ExpressVPN
NordVPN
Surfshark
Proton VPN
CyberGhost
Private Internet Access
Mullvad VPN
Windscribe
TunnelBear
VyprVPN
After gathering our list, we narrowed this selection by focusing on user reviews and expert recommendations. We then tested these VPNs against a set of specific criteria. Important factors included speed, security, ease of use, pricing, and compatibility with Chromebooks.
Our testing involved putting each VPN through a series of performance exams. Speed tests were conducted to measure how quickly users could browse the web or stream content. Security features such as encryption, no-log policies, and extra security options were also evaluated.
We used a scoring system to rank the VPNs in each category. This included connecting multiple devices simultaneously during tests to check stability and performance. Additionally, we assessed how easy the VPN app was to install and use on a Chromebook.
Finally, cost was another key factor. We compared subscription options to see which VPNs offered the best value. Some VPNs like Surfshark offer unlimited connections, which added to their attractiveness. Through this detailed evaluation, we identified the VPNs that best fit the needs of Chromebook users.
What is a VPN for Chromebook?
When we talk about VPNs for Chromebooks, we mean a tool that helps keep our internet activity private and secure.
A VPN, which stands for Virtual Private Network, creates a secure connection between our Chromebook and the internet. This is important when we’re using public Wi-Fi, as it protects our data from potential threats.
Using a VPN on a Chromebook is straightforward. We can install it directly from the Google Play Store or use a browser-based extension.
Once installed, the VPN encrypts our online traffic, making it difficult for anyone to track what we’re doing or steal our information. This gives us safety, especially when accessing sensitive data.
There are many reasons why we might want to use a VPN on our Chromebook. For one, it allows us to access content that might be restricted in our region. By connecting to servers in different locations, we can bypass these restrictions and enjoy a wider range of online content.
Here’s a quick list of benefits:
- Protection of public Wi-Fi: Keeps our connections secure in coffee shops or airports.
- Access to geo-restricted content: Let us view streaming services or websites only available in other countries.
- Enhanced privacy: This prevents our internet service provider from tracking our browsing habits.
In essence, a VPN for Chromebooks is about maintaining privacy and expanding access. It’s a useful tool that enhances our online experience by providing both security and freedom when we need it most.
What are the benefits of using a VPN for a Chromebook?
Using a VPN on our Chromebook provides several advantages, ensuring a safer and more private browsing experience. One significant benefit is enhanced privacy.
A VPN hides our IP address, making our online activities harder to track. This is especially useful if we often use public Wi-Fi networks, which are found in places like cafes and libraries.
Another advantage is security. A VPN encrypts our data, protecting it from potential hackers and cyber threats. This means our personal information, like passwords and credit card numbers, stays safe when we browse the web. For those of us concerned about online safety, this added protection is invaluable.
A VPN also allows access to restricted content. Sometimes, websites or streaming services might block access based on geographic location.
With a VPN, we can bypass these restrictions and enjoy our favorite content from anywhere in the world. This provides more freedom and flexibility when accessing information online.
Lastly, using a VPN can help maintain better internet speeds by preventing bandwidth throttling. Internet Service Providers might slow down connection speeds for certain activities, like streaming or gaming. A VPN can help us avoid this, ensuring a smoother online experience.
In summary, a VPN enhances our Chromebook experience by boosting privacy, security, and access capabilities.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a VPN for a Chromebook
When we’re deciding on a VPN for our Chromebook, there are several important things we need to look at.
Compatibility: Our top priority should be finding a VPN that is compatible with Chromebook. Many VPNs offer Android apps. We can download these from the Google Play Store, which ensures they work smoothly with the Chrome OS.
Speed: Speed is crucial if we’re streaming videos or gaming. VPNs can sometimes slow down our internet, so we need one that keeps our speed as fast as possible without compromising on performance.
Security Features: Ensuring our data is safe should be non-negotiable. We must look for features like encryption, a kill switch, and strong protocols. These features keep our information secure, especially on public Wi-Fi.
User-Friendly Interface: A VPN with a simple, user-friendly interface makes life easier. We want to get connected quickly without navigating through complicated settings.
Cost: Budget can be a deciding factor for many of us. Some VPNs provide excellent services at affordable prices. We should consider whether we prefer a monthly or annual subscription to fit our budget.
Customer Support: Having access to reliable customer support can save us a lot of hassle. If we run into any issues, helpful support can make a big difference.
By keeping these factors in mind, we can make a smart choice. For more details on a VPN that might fit our needs, check out the recommendations from Forbes Advisor.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best VPN for Chromebooks?
NordVPN is often considered the best for Chromebook users due to its strong security features and extensive server network. With over 5000 servers in 59 countries, it offers excellent speed and security protection. More details here.
Can I use a VPN on a Chromebook?
Yes, you can use a VPN on a Chromebook. Many VPN providers offer apps compatible with ChromeOS, either through Android apps or Chrome browser extensions, ensuring seamless integration and protection while browsing.
Is ExpressVPN good for Chromebooks?
ExpressVPN is highly regarded for Chromebooks. It provides a dedicated Android app with fast speeds and top-notch security, making it a great choice for streaming and secure browsing. Learn more here.
Does NordVPN work on Chromebook?
NordVPN is fully compatible with Chromebooks. It offers various features like strong encryption and easy-to-use apps that integrate well with ChromeOS, providing reliable privacy and security.
How do I install a VPN on my Chromebook?
To install a VPN on your Chromebook, download the VPN app from the Google Play Store or use a Chrome extension. Once installed, log in to the app and follow the setup instructions to connect to a server.
Which VPNs are compatible with Chromebooks for streaming?
Both NordVPN and ExpressVPN are excellent for streaming on Chromebooks. They support all major streaming platforms and offer high-speed connections, ensuring an uninterrupted viewing experience. More on ExpressVPN for streaming here.