Best VPNs for China in 2026
Our in-house cybersecurity experts and journalists, renowned for major reports like The Mother of All Breaches, conduct transparent, unbiased VPN testing and in-depth analysis.
With 750+ articles crafted based on real-world research, we empower readers to make informed purchasing decisions through first-hand expertise.
Learn more
It’s no secret that many Western online services, such as Google, Facebook, Netflix, and more, are unavailable in China. This is due to the country’s widespread online censorship measures, enforced by the Great Firewall.
As expected, this can be pretty frustrating for tourists from abroad. Fortunately, you can circumvent these online restrictions and stay secure with a reliable VPN service. It will reroute your connection through another country, thus eliminating China’s online limits.
In November 2025, I collaborated with the Cybernews research team to identify the best VPNs for use in China. We traveled to Shenzhen and conducted on-site tests on the China Unicom ISP, evaluating 25 different VPNs. Our testing focused on accessing popular websites such as Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, as well as measuring download and upload speeds. After gathering results, we analyzed how these VPNs perform not only in China but also in other regions. Read on to discover which providers truly deliver.
Top 5 best VPNs for China in 2026
- NordVPN – most effective VPN for China
- Surfshark – affordable and reliable China VPN
- Astrill VPN – expensive VPN optimized specifically for China
- Proton VPN – privacy-oriented VPN for China with a free tier
- ExpressVPN – balanced VPN for speed and privacy
We spare no effort to test the products & their features. All information is gathered by our in-house research team & fact-checked by our team of experts. Discover the ins and outs of our testing procedures.
Before we get started
To ensure our recommendations reflect real-world performance, together with the Cybernews research team, we traveled to Shenzhen, China, in November 2025 to conduct hands-on VPN tests under live network conditions. The goal was simple: identify which VPNs actually work in China and deliver stable, secure, and fast connections despite the country’s sophisticated censorship systems.
Using the China Unicom ISP, we tested 25 VPNs across multiple devices, including laptops, smartphones, and tablets. Each VPN was evaluated on its ability to access 10 of the most commonly blocked platforms – Google, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, X (Twitter), Reddit, WhatsApp, Telegram, Netflix, and Spotify – as well as essential online services such as banking and email. We also measured upload and download speeds, observed connection stability, and checked for any IP or DNS leaks that could compromise privacy.
Out of the 25 providers tested, 13 VPNs managed to bypass the Great Firewall consistently, allowing smooth browsing and streaming on restricted sites. Many VPN apps were unavailable in Chinese app stores, so installations were done through alternate sources before entering the country. On average, the best-performing VPNs maintained download speeds from 551Mbps to 602Mbps, which is suitable for HD streaming, though results varied depending on the time of day and server location. You can find the exact speeds and unblocking capabilities of these 13 providers in our Best VPNs for China report.
It’s important to note that VPN performance in China can be unpredictable – what works reliably in Shenzhen may not perform the same in other regions or on different ISPs. The Chinese government frequently updates its blocking mechanisms, meaning even top VPNs may experience temporary disruptions. Our findings represent performance snapshots during the November 2025 testing period, providing the most accurate insight possible at that time.
Best VPN for China – detailed review
To make the choice of the best VPN for China easier, I compiled the most crucial factors of each provider into this comparison table.
| Provider | Rating | Websites unblocked | Download speed, Mbps | Upload speed, Mbps | Pricing |
| NordVPN | 10/10 | 551 | 36 | From $3.09/month | |
| Surfshark | 10/10 | 602 | 37 | From $1.99/month | |
| Astrill VPN | 9/10 | 547 | 32 | From $12.50/month | |
| Proton VPN | 10/10 | 568 | 41 | 2.99 | |
| ExpressVPN | 9/10 | 438 | 40 | From $2.79/month |
1. NordVPN – most worthwhile VPN for China
| Rating: | |
| Works in China: | ✅ Yes |
| Servers/countries: | 9,500+ servers in 149 countries |
| No-logs policy: | Audited no-logs policy |
| Price: | $3.09/month |
| Current deal: | Get 76% OFF NordVPN + 3 months free |
NordVPN delivered outstanding all-around performance in our Shenzhen field tests, making it my top recommendation for use in China. While it ranked third in terms of speed when bypassing the Great Firewall, its strong security measures, reliable connectivity, and verified no-logs policy put it ahead in overall value. Crucially, NordVPN bypassed restrictions in every situation we tested – whether I was in my hotel, a cafe, or anywhere else with public Wi-Fi available.
What we found during our test
During our testing, this VPN delivered impressive overall performance across several key areas:
- Unblocked all 10 of the restricted sites we tested, including Google, YouTube, Facebook, and more
- Delivered above average speeds of 551Mbps download and 36Mbps upload on China Unicom
- Worked reliably across hotel, café, and public Wi-Fi networks
- Provided smooth streaming and consistent performance with no notable connection drops
During the initial setup, the NordVPN app had difficulty connecting from within China. However, after contacting the provider’s customer support and following NordVPN’s setup guidance – including installing the IKEv2 certificate and enabling obfuscated servers – connections became stable and consistent. NordVPN’s proprietary NordWhisper tunneling protocol helped it bypass censorship and access social media, streaming, and banking apps that are typically blocked in China.
NordVPN’s key features that support Chinese access
While reviewing NordVPN, I discovered multiple additional features that make it the right choice for a VPN in China:
- Obfuscated servers and NordWhisper protocol to disguise VPN traffic and counter deep packet inspection
- Nearby servers in Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, and Singapore for optimal speed and latency
- Independently audited no-logs policy, now verified by six separate audits, ensuring true privacy and data security
- Threat Protection to block trackers, malicious sites, and unwanted ads
- Call Protection on Android to automatically block or flag potential scam calls
- 24/7 live chat support for quick assistance if connection issues occur
Pricing and plans
NordVPN pricing starts at $3.09/month, which is quite reasonable for the best VPN for China. And while the provider offers multiple subscription tiers, the most affordable Basic plan provides everything you need to tackle the Great Firewall. However, I recommend the Plus plan at $3.59/month, since it includes Threat Protection Pro for even greater protection. Each plan comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 3-day free trial for Android, which can be used on other devices after activation.
2. Surfshark – China VPN for budget-conscious travelers
| Rating: | |
| Works in China: | ✅ Yes |
| Servers/countries: | 4,500+ servers in 100 countries |
| No-logs policy: | Audited no-logs policy |
| Price: | $1.99/month |
| Current deal: | Now up to 87% OFF Surfshark + 3 months FREE |
Surfshark would be my go-to VPN for China if I wanted to save as much money as possible. The provider is one of the most affordable VPNs available, and you can get it even cheaper using the “OFFCN” promo code. Despite its low price, it performed impressively during our November 2025 field tests in Shenzhen, delivering the fastest speeds of all VPNs we evaluated. It’s the best pick for users who want top-tier results without paying premium prices.
What we found during our test
Surfshark VPN demonstrated strong performance and reliability across multiple categories during our tests.
- Unblocked all 10 restricted sites tested, including Instagram, X (Twitter), Reddit, and more
- Delivered the fastest speeds among all providers, averaging 602Mbps download and 37Mbps upload on China Unicom
- Maintained stable connections in hotels, cafés, and other public Wi-Fi networks
- Worked flawlessly across multiple operating systems, including Windows, Android, and iOS
In Shenzhen, Surfshark required no advanced setup to start working – enabling NoBorders mode and using the OpenVPN or WireGuard protocol was enough to bypass the Great Firewall. The VPN handled streaming, social media, and secure browsing with ease, making it ideal for users traveling in or residing in China. Network stability remained consistent throughout our Surfshark testing, even during peak hours.
Surfshark’s key features that support Chinese access
In a nutshell, Surfshark is an excellent choice because of these factors:
- NoBorders mode and Camouflage Mode intelligently evades censorship and masks VPN usage
- Nearby servers in Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, and especially Macau SAR, China, ensure faster response times
- Audited no-logs policy confirms Surfshark’s commitment to data privacy
- CleanWeb feature blocks ads, trackers, and malware for safer browsing
- Bypasser (split tunneling) for routing only selected apps through the VPN
- Unlimited device connections, perfect for multi-device travelers or families
Pricing and plans
Surfshark cost starts at just $1.99/month, making it one of the most affordable VPNs for China. Like NordVPN, it offers multiple subscription tiers, but the most affordable one is sufficient for bypassing the Great Firewall. Still, the other options are worth considering if you want extra cybersecurity perks. If you want to try it risk-free, there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 7-day free trial on macOS, iOS, Android, and other devices.
3. Astrill VPN – expensive but effective VPN for China
| Rating: | |
| Works in China: | ✅ Yes |
| Servers/countries: | Servers in 58 countries |
| No-logs policy: | No-logs policy, but no independent audits |
| Price: | $12.50/month |
| Current deal: | Get 50% OFF with 2-year plan! |
Astrill VPN continues to uphold its reputation as one of the most reliable tools for getting around China’s internet restrictions. While it didn't perform as well as ExpressVPN in our direct comparison, I ranked it higher on my list because Astrill achieved better real-world results in the Shenzhen tests. Its proprietary technology and solid speed make it a dependable choice, particularly for users who value connection stability and long-term reliability inside China.
What we found during our test
Our testing showed that Astrill VPN delivers reliable performance across most real-world situations, whether it's streaming or browsing securely.
- Unblocked 9 out of 10 restricted sites, failing only on WhatsApp
- Averaged 547Mbps download and 32Mbps upload on China Unicom
- Maintained steady connections for browsing, streaming, and video calls
- Required minimal setup and worked smoothly across multiple device types
Astrill’s performance in Shenzhen was powered by its StealthVPN protocol, which hid VPN traffic effectively and allowed access to restricted platforms like Google, Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram. Streaming services such as Netflix loaded quickly with minimal buffering – something ExpressVPN couldn’t do. However, upload speeds dipped more notably than downloads, which may impact users uploading large files or engaging in high-quality video chats.
It’s important to note that where Astrill excels in censorship resistance, it lacks in transparency. The provider admits to collecting limited session data (like bandwidth usage and IP addresses during sessions), which are reportedly deleted after disconnecting. Unlike leading competitors such as NordVPN or Proton VPN, Astrill’s no-logs policy has never been independently audited, raising some privacy concerns for strict security users.
Astrill VPN’s key features that support Chinese access
Astrill VPN is a great VPN for China for these reasons:
- Its proprietary StealthVPN and OpenWeb protocols disguise VPN traffic and evade deep packet inspection
- Multi-hop (Double VPN) and dedicated IP options for added security layers
- Despite the modest number of 58 countries, it provides server choices across Asia, including Hong Kong and Taiwan
- A robust kill switch to protect against data leaks if the connection drops
Pricing and plans
Astrill VPN is one of the pricier options, starting at $12.50/month, which might not be ideal for budget-conscious users. While it offers a range of security features and reliable access in China, the high cost may be a deterrent for some. Moreover, it only allows for 5 simultaneous connections and doesn’t have a money-back guarantee, which I think is an egregious drawback considering the high price. However, there’s a 7-day free trial to test the service risk-free.
4. Proton VPN – privacy-focused VPN with a solid free tier
| Rating: | |
| Works in China: | ✅ Yes |
| Servers/countries: | 20,300+ servers in 148 countries |
| No-logs policy: | Audited no-logs policy |
| Price: | Free or $2.99/month |
| Current deal: | Get up to 70% OFF Proton VPN |
Proton VPN is best suited for travelers who prioritize privacy and transparency. It has exceptional privacy credentials that make it exceptionally trustworthy in the VPN market. Most notably, the provider is independently audited, based in Switzerland, and has open-source apps.
What we found during our test
In our November 2025 field tests in Shenzhen over the China Unicom network, it performed exceptionally well – unblocking all major restricted sites while maintaining solid speeds.
- Unblocked all 10 restricted sites, including Netflix, YouTube, and Spotify
- Averaged 568Mbps download and 41Mbps upload on the China Unicom ISP
- Provided smooth, uninterrupted access to streaming, social media, and banking platforms
- Without extra setup, worked consistently across Windows, macOS, and Android devices
During our Proton VPN testing, the provider connected reliably using the WireGuard protocol, which balanced strong security with excellent performance. Unlike some VPNs, Proton VPN required no manual configuration or alternative setup – once installed, it worked immediately within China. However, while the free plan technically allows access to blocked sites, it proved too limited in server options to perform reliably. The premium version, on the other hand, consistently bypassed the Great Firewall with strong speed and uptime.
Proton VPN’s key features that support Chinese access
Proton VPN has a few key strengths that make it appealing for users in China:
- Numerous audits, the Swiss jurisdiction, and open-source apps showcase the provider’s commitment to full transparency
- The biggest server fleet on my list, with nearby servers in Hong Kong and Taiwan, allows for bypassing network restrictions with minimal latency
- WireGuard protocol and Secure Core servers (multi-hop routing) for maximum privacy and resistance to surveillance
- NetShield ad/tracker blocker for a cleaner, safer browsing experience
- Port forwarding support, useful for advanced users and secure remote access
Pricing and plans
Proton VPN pricing starts at $2.99/month, which makes it only slightly less expensive than NordVPN. Notably, it offers a free version that allows you to bypass the Great Firewall using a VPN app at no cost. However, I found it quite limited in server availability and features. Therefore, I recommend sticking with the premium version for better results. Alternatively, you can use the 30-day money-back guarantee to test the powerful premium version. Proton VPN also supports anonymous payments using Bitcoin.
5. ExpressVPN – versatile and easy-to-use VPN for China
| Rating: | |
| Works in China: | ✅ Yes |
| Servers/countries: | Undisclosed number of servers in 105 countries |
| No-logs policy: | Audited no-logs policy |
| Price: | $2.79/month |
| Current deal: | Now up to 78% OFF ExpressVPN + 4 months FREE |
ExpressVPN is a solid choice for private browsing in China. It offers great features and an intuitive app that make it easy to bypass the Great Firewall of China without much trouble. However, it wasn’t as consistent in our Shenzhen testing as many of its rivals, and I’m disappointed by its lack of transparency regarding server numbers. Still, it delivered acceptable results in many areas.
What we found during our test
Throughout our testing, ExpressVPN consistently delivered steady speeds and dependable access to restricted content in China.
- Unblocked 9 out of 10 restricted sites, with all except Netflix working smoothly
- Reached average speeds of 438Mbps download and 40 Mbps upload
- Provided stable access to restricted sites, such as Google, Spotify, Instagram, Telegram, and WhatsApp
- Functioned consistently across multiple Wi-Fi networks without major disruptions
ExpressVPN required no manual setup to work from within China – the app automatically connected through the most optimal configuration. Its proprietary Lightway protocol delivered fast page loading times while also minimizing the detection risks common on restrictive networks. While it didn’t top our speed charts and couldn’t reliably unblock Netflix, ExpressVPN’s combination of simplicity and security made it one of the most effortless VPNs to use during our tests, which I definitely appreciate
ExpressVPN’s key features that support Chinese access
ExpressVPN is a great choice for users in China for the following reasons:
- Secure apps available on all major platforms, with an intuitive setup, allow anyone to bypass the Great Firewall without much effort
- Audited no-logs policy and AES-256 encryption guarantee privacy and ensure your anonymity remains intact
- Automatic obfuscation technology helps bypass China’s deep packet inspection systems
- Threat Manager blocks trackers and malicious domains
Pricing and plans
ExpressVPN pricing and plans now consist of 3 different options, so you can pick one based on your needs. The cheapest option starts at $2.79/month with the 2-year subscription, making it more affordable than NordVPN. That said, plans range up to $5.99/month, with 14 simultaneous connections on the priciest plan, and additional services such as an eSIM, ad blocker, and Identity Defender (for US customers). For private payments, you can use Bitcoin. There is also a 30-day money-back guarantee for new users and a 3-day free trial.
Why do you need a VPN in China?
When you’re in China, many popular websites and apps are blocked or heavily censored due to government restrictions known as the Great Firewall. Using a VPN is essential for accessing the global internet freely and protecting your online privacy.
Here are the main reasons why you need a VPN in China:
- Bypass geo-restrictions. Many services, such as Google, Facebook, YouTube, and Netflix, are blocked in China. A VPN allows you to connect to servers outside of China, enabling you to access these platforms without limitations.
- Protect your privacy. The Chinese government closely monitors internet traffic. A VPN encrypts your data, keeping your online activities private and secure from surveillance.
- Secure public Wi-Fi connections. Public Wi-Fi networks in China, such as those in cafes, airports, or hotels, may not be secure. A VPN protects your data from malicious hackers and unauthorized access when using these networks.
- Access work and communication tools. Many businesses rely on tools like Slack, WhatsApp, and Google Workspace, which are blocked in China. A VPN ensures you stay connected to essential work resources and communicate without disruption.
- Avoid bandwidth throttling. Internet speeds can be intentionally slowed down when accessing restricted content. Using a VPN helps maintain better connection speeds by preventing throttling based on your online activity.
Is VPN illegal in China?
VPNs aren’t illegal in China. However, they are heavily restricted by the Chinese government, and only VPNs that comply with strict Chinese requirements are allowed. Overall, VPN legality often falls into a gray area in China.
If the IP address of a VPN server isn’t associated with the Great Firewall of China restrictions, it should allow you to access blocked websites. This is why it’s crucial to pick a VPN with plenty of servers – in case one of them is blocked, there are others you can use to connect to the internet.
Another thing to note is that promoting and selling VPNs is illegal in China. That’s because, technically, only government-approved VPNs should be available in the country. Unsurprisingly, no one wants to use those because they provide zero privacy.
The legality of VPNs in China is complex, and you should consult Chinese legal professionals for the most up-to-date information regarding this topic.
Are free VPNs good enough for China?
Free VPNs don’t really work in China for one simple reason: they don’t invest in their server infrastructure. Because the government in China is very strict about VPNs and is notorious for blocking them, it’s imperative that a provider can offer plenty of servers, so that you have options in case some are blocked.
Moreover, free VPNs are unlikely to offer specialized (obfuscated) servers and features built to combat censorship. Ultimately, free VPNs may put you at risk because if the government discovers you are using them, they could potentially invoke legal action.
Instead, I strongly recommend trying premium VPNs that have proven reliable in China. Surfshark and NordVPN both performed exceptionally well in our Shenzhen field tests, offering the best balance of speed, privacy, and censorship resistance. Even Proton VPN – technically a freemium service – showed in our testing that its free version couldn’t bypass China’s restrictions, while its premium plan worked effectively.
These trusted providers also offer 30-day money-back guarantees (and free trials in some cases), making them safe to test without long-term commitment. If you’re planning a short stay in China, these trial options should easily cover your trip. And if you decide to keep one, you’ll gain access to a secure and dependable VPN that continues working long after you leave the country.
Things to remember before traveling to China
Beijing claims that it implements online regulations to protect Chinese residents. That's why both visitors and locals are forced to meet vigorous privacy requirements.
A non-Chinese VPN is the first thing to acquire before flying to China, as it isn’t controlled by the PRC and can bypass the Great Firewall. Once in China, you won't be able to find VPN apps on the Apple App Store, while Google's products, including the Google Play Store, are blocked. This means you cannot download VPN apps directly while in the country. To ensure you have unrestricted internet access on your trip, you must download and set up your VPN before you arrive.
Here are a few other boxes to check to stay as secure as possible while visiting China:
- Use a VPN at all times. Regardless of your goal for visiting China, a VPN should always be enabled. Better yet, install and subscribe to a couple of reliable providers, like NordVPN or Surfshark, and connect to nearby servers for optimal connectivity.
- Don’t use public Wi-Fi. Whether you’re staying in a hotel or want to scroll online at a restaurant, avoid connecting to public Wi-Fi networks. There have been instances when people in China were robbed and tracked while using publicly accessible networks.
- Avoid local apps. Even though testing Chinese applications may be tempting, I strongly recommend against it. The majority of applications in China are government-owned. Consequently, programs like WeChat collect large amounts of personal data and share it with the government.
- Prepare an eSIM card. Get the best China-suited eSIM card, as your regular card may not work in China. Ensure that your device model is compatible to avoid purchasing local brands.
- Use a password manager. Anyone going to China, especially students or professionals, should protect their credentials with advanced encryption and multi-factor authentication. For this, I recommend using one of the most reputable password managers.
How to download a VPN while in China
If you’re already in China, getting a VPN won’t be as simple as visiting an official website or an app store and downloading the VPN app. Official VPN websites and VPN-related queries will be blocked. Still, here are a few ways to download a VPN while in China:
- Sideload the VPN app. Most VPN providers offer methods for downloading and installing their applications without visiting their website or using an app store. Some VPN providers offer APK files for Android, while iOS users can use third-party sideloading applications. I also recommend checking out platforms like APKMirror or mirrored VPN provider sites.
- Set up a manual VPN connection. If you can’t download the official VPN app, most providers offer ways to access their servers via manual OpenVPN, Shadowsocks, or IKEv2/IPsec connections. Look for manual VPN setup instructions online.
- Use a Google Play Store or App Store account registered outside of China. With such an account, you may still be able to download and install a VPN while in China.
Final thoughts
Using a VPN in China is essential for anyone who wants unrestricted access to global websites and online services. The Great Firewall is one of the world’s most advanced censorship systems, so only a handful of VPNs can truly overcome its restrictions. That’s why we tested 25 VPNs in Shenzhen on the China Unicom network to identify which ones actually work in real conditions.
From those tests, Surfshark delivered the best performance overall, unblocking all 10 restricted sites and recording the fastest speeds among all VPNs tested. However, NordVPN is my top recommendation for use in China, as it not only unblocks all the sites we tested but also combines excellent reliability, advanced security features, and consistent success in bypassing censorship across multiple networks. Proton VPN also deserves praise for its strong privacy protections, though its free version was ineffective against the Great Firewall.
If you’re traveling or living in China, choosing a proven premium VPN’s paid plan will help you stay connected, secure, and uncensored online.
FAQ
Is NordVPN blocked in China?
Technically, all VPN usage is blocked in China. However, NordVPN offers features like obfuscated servers that can help users bypass these restrictions by disguising VPN traffic as regular internet traffic, preventing the Great Firewall from detecting and blocking NordVPN.
Is NordVPN legal in China?
Yes, NordVPN is technically legal in China, but its use can be restricted. While VPNs are not outright banned, the Chinese government heavily regulates their use, especially when it comes to bypassing the Great Firewall.
Does China monitor VPN?
Yes, China actively monitors VPN usage. The government employs deep packet inspection (DPI) and other advanced techniques to detect and block VPN traffic.
Which VPN server locations should I choose in China?
Choose the closest server location for a lower ping and faster connection. All of our picked VPNs offer at least some of the following locations: Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, or Macau SAR, China. Of course, if you want to unblock Netflix US or watch the UK version of YouTube, you’ll have to connect to servers in those countries.
How can I get a Chinese IP address?
VPNs can provide you with Chinese IP addresses. Although most of them do not have servers in China specifically, you can use a provider with servers in Macau and Hong Kong. NordVPN, Surfshark, ExpressVPN, and many other reputable VPNs offer servers in these regions.
What is the Great Firewall of China (GFW)?
The Great Firewall of China (GFW) is a comprehensive system of internet censorship and border control operated by the Chinese government. It controls what people in China can access and share online by blocking foreign websites, filtering keywords, and monitoring internet traffic. The GFW uses advanced tools like IP blocking and deep packet inspection to restrict access to popular platforms such as Google, YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and X (Twitter). This gives the Chinese government tight, centralized control over the flow of information entering and leaving the country.
