Best VPN for China in 2025

Bypassing internet censorship in China remains a challenge due to the Great Firewall blocking sites like Google, YouTube, WhatsApp, and Instagram. Whether you're a traveler, expat, or local resident, a VPN is essential for unrestricted access.

However, most VPNs don’t work in China, as the government aggressively detects and blocks them. That’s why choosing a VPN with obfuscation, strong encryption, and consistent access to restricted platforms is crucial.

At Cybernews, for over five years, we’ve been testing and reviewing VPNs to find the best options for bypassing China’s internet restrictions. In our latest research, we analyzed 41 VPN providers, assessing their ability to overcome the Great Firewall, deliver fast speeds, and safeguard user privacy. Whether you need a VPN for streaming, social media, or secure browsing, our carefully vetted recommendations ensure seamless and unrestricted access to the internet.

Best VPNs for China in 2025 — shortlist

China VPNs in 2025 — detailed analysis

To find the best VPNs for China, we focused on services that could reliably bypass the Great Firewall, maintain strong connections, and perform well under heavy censorship. Through extensive hands-on testing, we identified VPNs that consistently provided secure, private, and unrestricted internet access in China. The final list includes only those that proved effective in overcoming restrictions while keeping user data protected.

1. NordVPN – best VPN for China in 2025

Privacy and security

NordVPN takes privacy seriously, using AES-256 encryption, the gold standard for securing online traffic. It also supports NordLynx (WireGuard-based protocol) for a balance of speed and security. A strict no-logs policy further ensures that no user data is stored or shared, and this has been verified by 4 independent audits.

To prevent leaks, NordVPN includes DNS leak protection, a kill switch, and WebRTC leak prevention, keeping your real IP address hidden at all times. Additionally, the provider is based in Panama, a jurisdiction outside of the Fourteen Eyes alliances, offering a more privacy-friendly environment.

Features

NordVPN comes packed with security features, including obfuscated servers to bypass deep packet inspection, a Threat Protection tool to block ads and malware, and a Double VPN for extra encryption. It also offers Onion over VPN for those who want to add Tor-level anonymity.

The server infrastructure is expansive, comprising over 7400 servers distributed across 118 countries. Strategically positioned nodes in proximity to China – including Hong Kong, Japan, Taiwan, and South Korea – ensure low-latency connections and optimal throughput for users in regions with stringent internet controls.

This robust feature set, coupled with its extensive server network, positions NordVPN as a highly effective solution for bypassing internet restrictions in China.

Using NordVPN for China

NordVPN, mimicking real-world conditions to see how well it handles censorship and restrictions. The setup process was quick, even with strict network blocks in place. The obfuscated servers worked as expected, disguising VPN traffic and allowing us to connect without detection.

To test the performance, we used servers in Hong Kong, Japan, and Singapore, which resulted in a 90% speed retention rate – enough for smooth browsing, gaming, and streaming. I had no issues unblocking Netflix, YouTube, Twitter, or other restricted sites, and torrenting worked without slowdowns.

NordVPN pricing

NordVPN offers a variety of subscription plans designed to cater to different needs and budgets. These plans – Standard, Plus, Complete, and Prime – provide flexibility while ensuring access to NordVPN’s core features. Starting at just $3.39/month with a 2-year subscription, NordVPN positions itself as competitively priced in the VPN market. While it’s not the cheapest, it offers excellent value considering its advanced features and exceptional performance.

NordVPN cost	Basic plan	Plus plan	Complete plan	Prime plan
1-month	$12.99/month	$13.99/month	$14.99/month	$17.99/month
1-year	$4.99/month	$5.99/month	$6.99/month	$9.99/month
2-years	$3.39/month	$4.39/month	$5.39/month	$8.39/month

2. Surfshark – cost-effective VPN in China

Privacy and security

Surfshark prioritizes encryption and privacy protections, making it a strong choice for users in China. The provider also follows a strict no-logs policy, meaning it does not store user data or browsing activity.

To prevent IP and DNS leaks, Surfshark includes built-in DNS leak protection and a WebRTC leak blocker, both of which passed our testing. Its jurisdiction in the Netherlands may raise some concerns due to its data-sharing alliances, but its no-logs policy ensures that no identifiable user information is stored or shared.

Features

Surfshark offers a well-rounded set of VPN features designed to improve security and provide seamless access to restricted content. Its NoBorders mode is particularly useful in China, as it detects network restrictions and automatically applies settings to bypass them.

One of Surfshark’s standout features is MultiHop, which allows users to route their connection through 2 VPN servers for extra privacy. It also includes CleanWeb, a built-in ad and tracker blocker, which improves browsing speed and security.

Surfshark operates 3200+ servers across 100 countries, including multiple locations near China, such as Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan.

Using Surfshark for China

Deploying Surfshark in restrictive environments like China is seamless, and the installation process can be completed within minutes. The intuitive app interface allows for swift server selection, security customization, and activation of specialized features such as NoBorders mode, which detects network restrictions and optimizes settings accordingly.

During testing, we established secure connections to Hong Kong and Japan servers to assess performance across various use cases, including bypassing deep packet inspection (DPI), streaming geo-restricted content, and accessing blocked platforms like YouTube, Twitter, and Netflix. Surfshark consistently delivered high-speed connectivity with minimal packet loss, maintaining an 86% speed retention rate even under heavily restricted networks.

Surfshark pricing

Surfshark is one of the most budget-friendly VPNs available, offering subscription plans that provide premium features without a premium price tag. With prices starting as low as $2.19/month for a 2-year plan, Surfshark delivers exceptional value for users seeking comprehensive online protection and performance.

Plan	Starter	One	One+
24-month	$2.19/month	$2.69/month	$4.29/month
12-month	$3.19/month	$3.39/month	$6.09/month
1-month	$15.45/month	$17.95/month	$20.65/month

3. Proton VPN – a reliable free VPN in China

Privacy and security

Proton VPN is built with encryption standards and secures data with AES-256 for OpenVPN and IKEv2 and ChaCha20 for WireGuard. Operating from Switzerland, Proton VPN benefits from strict privacy laws, keeping it free from surveillance-heavy jurisdictions. It also has a verified no-logs policy, confirmed by independent audits. Our DNS and WebRTC leak tests showed no vulnerabilities, meaning your real IP address stays hidden at all times.

Features

Secure Core servers route traffic through ultra-secure locations before connecting to the internet, adding an extra shield against surveillance. The Stealth protocol is specifically designed to bypass heavy censorship, making it a strong option for use in China.

The server network includes 11800+ servers in 117 countries, including Hong Kong, Japan, and Taiwan to provide stable connections for users in China. Unlike some competitors, Proton VPN doesn’t have as many specialty servers, but its focus on privacy and censorship resistance makes it a standout choice.

Using Proton VPN for China

Accessing the open internet from China requires a VPN that consistently bypasses restrictions without sacrificing performance. Proton VPN’s Stealth protocol helped successfully access blocked platforms like YouTube, Twitter, and WhatsApp, even under heavy censorship.

Performance-wise, speed tests showed 85% download and upload speed retention rates. Even when connected to distant servers, speed retention remained stable, keeping video streaming smooth and lag-free.

Proton VPN offers a free and premium plan, making it an appealing choice for privacy-conscious users seeking flexibility. With premium plan starting at $3.59/month for a 2-year subscription, Proton VPN strikes a balance between affordability and advanced features designed for security and performance.

Plan	1-month	12-month	24-month
Proton VPN Plus	$9.99	$3.99	$3.59

The free plan is one of the most generous among VPN providers, offering unlimited data usage with moderate speeds and access to select servers. For more advanced features, the Plus plan unlocks streaming capabilities, P2P support, and the privacy-boosting Secure Core feature.

4. ExpressVPN – VPN for secure browsing in China

Privacy and security

ExpressVPN offers AES-256 encryption, Perfect Forward Secrecy, and TrustedServer technology, ensuring all data is wiped with every reboot. The DNS and WebRTC leak tests showed no leaks, keeping the real IP address hidden. ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands, a privacy-friendly jurisdiction with no mandatory data retention laws, and its no-logs policy has been independently audited. While these are excellent security measures, it’s worth noting that ExpressVPN doesn’t offer multi-hop connections, a feature available in some competing VPNs.

Features

ExpressVPN has a wide server network in 105 countries, including locations near China, such as Hong Kong, Japan, Taiwan, and South Korea. The Lightway protocol is optimized for speed and reliability, but during testing, some long-distance connections experienced occasional slowdowns. Additional features like split tunneling, a kill switch, and MediaStreamer Smart DNS improve usability, though manual setup may be needed for some devices.

Using ExpressVPN for China

ExpressVPN successfully unblocks services like YouTube, Twitter, and WhatsApp, providing a smooth experience. Streaming on platforms like Netflix and BBC iPlayer works well, though some regional streaming services require multiple server switches before working properly.

While ExpressVPN remains one of the top options for bypassing China's internet restrictions, occasional connection issues may require switching servers or adjusting settings.

ExpressVPN pricing

ExpressVPN is positioned as a premium VPN service, offering a single all-inclusive plan to simplify the decision-making process. While its pricing is higher compared to many competitors, ExpressVPN justifies this with great features, fast speeds, and industry-leading security.

Plan	Monthly cost	Upfront cost
1-month plan	$12.95	$12.95
1-year plan	$6.67	$99.95
2-year plan	$4.99	$139.72

5. CyberGhost – beginner friendly VPN for China

Privacy and security

CyberGhost VPN ensures strong security with AES-256 encryption, DNS and WebRTC leak protection, and a strict no-logs policy that has been independently audited. Operating under Romanian jurisdiction, it remains outside the Fourteen Eyes alliances, which is beneficial for privacy.

However, unlike some competitors, CyberGhost lacks obfuscation technology, which may make it less effective at bypassing China's deep packet inspection (DPI) over time. The kill switch is always enabled, which improves security but removes manual control for users.

Features

CyberGhost offers servers across 100 countries, including nearby locations in Hong Kong, Japan, and South Korea, which are useful for users trying to bypass China’s restrictions. It provides dedicated servers for streaming, gaming, and torrenting, along with split tunneling and Wi-Fi protection. However, in high-censorship regions, performance can be inconsistent due to the absence of stealth VPN technology.

Using CyberGhost for China

CyberGhost has been tested for general browsing, social media access, and streaming in China and received mixed results. However, the speed retention rate averaged at around 86%.

When connected to servers in Hong Kong and Japan, basic web browsing and platforms like Twitter and WhatsApp worked, but some users reported difficulties accessing Google services and WeChat. While Netflix and BBC iPlayer could be unblocked, connection speeds varied, sometimes resulting in buffering issues for HD streaming.

CyberGhost pricing

CyberGhost offers flexible subscription plans, but its pricing structure is best suited for users ready to commit to long-term options. While the monthly plan is on the pricier side, the extended plans deliver exceptional value for money, making CyberGhost a cost-effective choice for those seeking a reliable VPN solution.

Plan	Price
1-month	$12.99/month
6-month	$6.99/month
2-year	$2.19/month

Comparing the best VPNs for China

If you're looking for a quick summary, this table highlights the key aspects of each VPN we tested for China, including performance, speed, and features. Use it to make an informed decision.

VPN for China	Rating	Servers near China	Number of servers near China	Servers	Streaming	Price
NordVPN	4.9 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★	Bhutan, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand	381+	7400+ servers in 118 countries	Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and more	From $3.39/month
Surfshark	4.7 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★	Hong Kong, India, Japan, Macau, Mongolia, Pakistan, South Korea, Taiwan, Vietnam	156+	3200+ servers in 100 countries	Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and more	From $2.19/month
Proton VPN	4.2 ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆	Hong Kong, India, Japan, Kazakhstan, Nepal, Pakistan, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand	289+	11800+ servers in 117 countries	Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, HBO Max, Disney+	From $3.59/month
ExpressVPN	4.3 ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆	Bhutan, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Kazakhstan, Macau, Mongolia, Myanmar, Pakistan, South Korea, Taiwan, Vietnam	Unavailable	Servers in 105 countries	Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and more	From $4.99/month
CyberGhost	4.2 ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆	Hong Kong, India, Japan, Iran	Unavailable	Servers in 100 countries	Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+	From $2.19/month

How we tested VPNs for China

Our research team and I evaluated 41 VPN providers to ensure our final list of the best VPNs for China includes only those that can reliably bypass geo-restrictions and deliver exceptional security. Here’s how we selected the top options:

1. Server availability (40%). To ensure a reliable connection in China, we prioritized VPNs with a strong network of nearby servers. We focused on providers with strategically placed servers in locations such as Hong Kong, Japan, Taiwan, and Singapore, as these offer the best performance for users in China. Additionally, we considered whether the VPNs provide obfuscated servers, which help bypass strict censorship by disguising VPN traffic as regular internet traffic.
2. Security measures (30%). Given China’s strict surveillance and internet restrictions, security is a critical factor. We evaluated VPNs based on their encryption standards (AES-256 or ChaCha20), DNS and WebRTC leak protection, and kill switch reliability. We also looked into each provider’s jurisdiction and no-logs policy to ensure users’ privacy. Additionally, we reviewed whether the VPNs have undergone independent security audits to verify their claims.
3. Unblocking capabilities (15%). Many websites and services, including Google, YouTube, and major social media platforms, are blocked in China. Special attention was given to VPNs with proprietary obfuscation technology, as these are more effective in evading China’s deep packet inspection (DPI) techniques.
4. Speed and performance (15%). A VPN is only useful if it offers fast and stable connections. We conducted extensive speed tests using different tunneling protocols, including WireGuard and OpenVPN, to determine which VPNs provide the best balance between speed and security. The selected VPNs maintained high-speed retention rates and delivered a buffer-free experience when streaming, browsing, and using social media.
   

Why do you need a VPN in China?

In China, internet activity is closely monitored, raising serious privacy concerns. A VPN encrypts your online traffic, ensuring your data remains private and granting secure access to restricted websites.

With encryption in place, neither your ISP nor the government can see which websites you’re visiting. Instead of logging actual URLs like www.netflix.com, they’ll see a random string of characters, keeping your browsing habits confidential.

China’s Great Firewall blocks popular platforms like Facebook, Google, YouTube, and WhatsApp, among many others. Without a VPN, you’ll miss out on staying connected, accessing global information, and using essential online tools.

How do I access and use VPNs in China?

The smartest move you can make when planning to use a VPN in China is to set it up before you get there. Many VPNs are blocked once you’re inside the country, so subscribing, downloading, or even paying for one can become nearly impossible. Some providers require a valid payment method to start a free trial, and Chinese cards often don’t work.

By installing and configuring your VPN ahead of time, you can save yourself a lot of hassle and ensure you can bypass restrictions the moment you arrive. Here are the steps you need to take:

1. Download and install a VPN with servers in or near China before arriving. I recommend NordVPN, now 72% OFF
2. Sign up for the service
3. Log into your account
4. Find obfuscated servers on the server list to mask your VPN connection and connect to the one closest to China when you get to the country

Try the best VPN for China

Which is the best free VPN to use in China?

Free VPNs generally fall short in China for a straightforward reason: they lack the resources to maintain robust server networks. The Chinese government is known for aggressively blocking VPNs, so having access to a large pool of servers is crucial to avoid interruptions when some get restricted.

Additionally, free VPNs often don’t include advanced features like obfuscated servers, which are specifically designed to bypass censorship. This lack of functionality not only makes them ineffective but could also expose you to risks if your VPN usage is detected by authorities.

Instead, I recommend taking advantage of free trials or 30-day money-back guarantees offered by premium VPNs. This approach allows you to test a high-quality VPN without long-term commitment, making it ideal if you’re planning a short stay in China. If the service meets your needs, you’ll have a reliable tool for navigating the Great Firewall securely. Here are my top picks:

• NordVPN – Enjoy a 7-day free trial that you can register on an Android device and then use on any compatible device. Pricing starts at $3.39/month, and you can take advantage of a fuss-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
• Surfshark – Register for a 7-day free trial on Android, iOS, and macOS devices. If you end up liking the service, pricing starts at $2.19/month, and you have a 30-day money-back guarantee to figure out if this is the tool for you.
• Proton VPN – the only provider on this list offering a free version with unlimited data. If you want access to premium features, pricing starts at $3.59/month. Plus, there's a 30-day money-back guarantee to test it risk-free.

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, so here are a few ways to download a VPN while in China:

1. Sideload the VPN app. Most VPN providers offer ways to download and install their applications without visiting the website or using an app store. VPN providers offer APK files for Android, and iOS users can use third-party sideloading applications. We also recommend checking out platforms like APKMirror or mirrored VPN provider sites.
2. Set up a manual VPN connection. If you can’t download the official VPN app, most providers offer different ways to access their servers via manual OpenVPN, Shadowsocks, or IKEv2/IPsec connections. Look for manual VPN setup instructions online.
3. 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.

Best VPN for China: final verdict

Using a VPN in China is essential for bypassing internet restrictions and maintaining online privacy. Based on our assessment, NordVPN stands out as the best option due to its obfuscated servers, strong encryption, and reliable performance under strict censorship. However, several VPNs offer solid alternatives for accessing blocked websites, streaming content, and securing communications. The key is choosing a provider with proven success in China, ensuring stable speeds, effective firewall evasion, and robust security to keep your internet access unrestricted and private.

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