Best VPNs for Chromebook in 2023

Chromebooks are considered generally secure because of the automatic updates, system recovery, sandboxing, and other security features of Chrome OS. However, they don’t ensure complete privacy when you’re online – that’s what a VPN is for.

Using a VPN with Chromebook ensures that your Internet Service Provider (ISP) or hackers can’t peek at what you’re doing online. Additionally, it protects your data, be it personal or business, so you can even work remotely at peace. Not to mention the ability to access geo-restricted sites and platforms.

But how do you choose which VPN is right for your device? We tested various services and gathered a list of the best VPNs for Chromebook. Keep on reading to find out the top providers in terms of features, speeds, pricing, and more.

Top 5 best VPNs for Chromebook

1. NordVPN – best VPN choice for your Chromebook
2. Surfshark – Chromebook VPN with unlimited connections
3. Atlas VPN – great VPN for Chrome OS with user-friendly apps
4. ExpressVPN – server-loaded Chromebook VPN
5. CyberGhost – fast choice for Chromebook devices

What makes the best Chromebook VPN?

The most suitable VPN for Chromebook is one that can ensure first-class privacy and security so there are no gaps for threats to lurk in. Here’s what you should pay attention to when choosing the best Chromebook VPN:

• Dedicated Chromebook app. Make sure the VPN you choose has a dedicated app for Chromebooks. If not, at least make sure it guarantees an easy-to-use Android app that you can download on your device.
• Security and privacy. VPNs for such devices must have a clear no-logging policy in place… even better if it’s audited. Plus, it should provide you with a reliable kill switch and additional security features, such as malicious threat protection.
• Speed. You don’t want to compromise internet speeds for the sake of privacy. For that reason, make sure you research or use our speed test tool to find out whether the VPN of your choice can guarantee high speed retention rates.
• Streaming capabilities. If entertainment is what you’re after, then the VPN of your choice should ensure buffering-free streaming. It should also unblock global libraries of at least some streaming platforms that you already have.
• Price. The best VPNs don’t tend to be overpriced. Usually, even if they have a massive server network and loads of features, you can still get them pretty cheap and for multiple devices.

The best VPNs for Google Chromebook – our detailed list:

In order to have the best browsing experience with Chromebook, it’s crucial to have a VPN service that is secure, reliable, and private. Luckily, we’ve done the hard work for you picking the top Google Chromebook available, let’s take a look.

1. NordVPN – best VPN for Chromebook

Based in:	Panama
Servers/countries:	5500+ servers in 60 countries
Works with:	Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox
Current deal:	🔥Get NordVPN with 63% OFF + 3 months FREE!🔥

Visit NordVPN

NordVPN is the best VPN for Chromebook because it has a dedicated and easy-to-use app for Google Chromebooks. It ensures an unmatched mix of security features, competitive speeds, and affordable prices.

The app allows you to configure it for your convenience, and you can also enjoy a massive server network of 5500+ servers in 60 countries.

NordVPN’s privacy policy states that they don’t log your private information or online activities. And since it has been audited by the PwC auditing firm twice, you can be sure of its word.

NordVPN can be easily declared one of the fastests VPNs out there. Part of it is thanks to its proprietary NordLynx protocol, which managed to retain around 95% of initial internet speeds.

Since the VPN is extra fast, you can enjoy a buffering-free streaming experience as well. NordVPN can unblock various streaming services, including Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and more.

And if extra features are what you need, NordVPN has plenty. This includes a trustworthy kill switch that prevents data leaks. There’s also the threat protection feature which secures your device from malicious threats.

Best of all, NordVPN is very affordable. Prices start at just $3.29/month for 6 simultaneous connections and with a 30-day money-back guarantee included. Android users can even claim a 7-day free trial.

For more information, visit our NordVPN review.

2. Surfshark – Chromebook VPN for unlimited devices

Based in:	The Netherlands
Servers/countries:	3200+ servers in 100 countries
Works with:	Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox
Current deal:	🔥Get 82% OFF Surfshark + 2 months FREE🔥

Visit Surfshark

Surfshark is another powerful VPN for Chromebook because of its blazing-fast speeds and low pricing options. Not to mention that it allows unlimited simultaneous connections and has an app compatible with Chromebook.

The app is a convenient solution that offers simple navigation. Plus, it's loaded with servers and has over 3200 of them in 100 countries.

Surfshark’s no-logging policy clearly states that they don’t collect user data. While they collect information regarding their services, you can simply opt out of it.

This VPN uses the WireGuard protocol, which provides a great combination of speed and security. So it’s no wonder that on average, Surfshark can retain around 90% of your initial internet speeds.

If you’re a movie buff, Surfshark is a great solution for streaming. It can bypass geo-restrictions or unlock libraries on such platforms as Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and more.

In terms of security, your data is always protected with a functional kill switch. It temporarily shuts down your internet connection if your VPN drops. If you pay an additional dollar or so, you can even get the Surfshark antivirus. This way, you get a rounded cybersecurity suite that also secures your device from malware.

Surfshark’s prices are very attractive, starting at just $2.30/month. It’s one of the cheapest premium VPNs you can find, and there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee included.

To learn more, visit our Surfshark review.

3. Atlas VPN – great VPN for ChromeOS

Based in:	United States
Servers/Countries:	750+ servers in 38 countries
Works with:	Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Android TV, Amazon Fire Stick
Current deal:	🔥Get Atlas VPN, now 83% OFF + 3 months FREE!🔥

Visit Atlas VPN

Another great VPN for Chromebook devices that we chose is Atlas VPN. Tech newbies will enjoy simple app navigation, while movie buffs – its streaming capabilities. Although Atlas VPN doesn’t have a Chrome OS app, its Android app is a great alternative.

The 750+ servers across 38 countries will get you connected to anywhere around the world, even if the fleet is smaller.

The server network together with the WireGuard protocol of Atlas VPN ensures great speed retention rates. During our tests, Atlas VPN managed to retain (on average) around 80% of initial internet speeds.

So if you’re one to stream movies on your Chromebook, this VPN is a solid choice for you. We managed to bypass geo-restrictions on Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, and other platforms.

Like most top providers, Atlas VPN has a clear no-logging policy and no prior reputational spots. At the same time, it could use a security audit.

Aside from a market-standard kill switch, Atlas VPN has an interesting feature called SafeSwap. It rotates your IP address while you’re connected – it works like an extra security step. The process is seamless, so you won’t notice any visible speed drops.

You can get Atlas VPN for as cheap as $1.82/month when getting a 2-year subscription. There’s also a 30-day money-back guarantee for those who change their mind.

To learn more about features, read our Atlas VPN review.

4. ExpressVPN – Chromebook VPN with loads of servers

Based in:	British Virgin Islands
Servers/countries:	3000+ servers in 94 countries
Works with:	Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS
Current deal:	🔥Get ExpressVPN, now 49% OFF the 1-year plan!🔥

Visit ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is a great pick for Chromebook users due to its many features and solid performance. You get its Android app with all the features of ExpressVPN available.

Speaking of speeds, ExpressVPN uses the proprietary Lightway protocol. That’s part of the reason why its performance is great. With this protocol, our tests showed an average of 77% speed retention rates. So your Chromebook won’t be visibly slowed down.

Another reason for ExpressVPN's solid speed results is the huge server network. There are over 3000 servers in 94 countries – you can connect to any corner of the world.

If you often watch streaming platforms on your Chromebook, ExpressVPN helps access more content. It can unblock libraries on Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and others.

There’s even a Smart DNS feature available for streaming content on devices that don’t support VPNs. As for security, you’re getting a reliable kill switch to prevent data leaks. There’s also a threat manager that blocks tracking and malicious activity.

ExpressVPN prices start from $6.67/month. While the price is a bit higher, you can connect 5 devices. And if anything, there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee available.

You can learn more in our ExpressVPN review.

5. CyberGhost – great VPN with excellent speeds

Based in:	Romania
Servers/countries:	9700+ servers in 91 countries
Works with:	Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox
Current deal:	🔥Get CyberGhost VPN, now 83% OFF + 2 months FREE🔥

Visit CyberGhost VPN

If you’re looking for an affordable solution for Chromebook, CyberGhost is what you need. Its prices start from as little as $2.19/month. There’s no dedicated Chromebook app, but the Android one is just as great.

CyberGhost promises some excellent speeds with its WireGuard protocol. On average, it retained 84% of initial connection speeds. Even if you’re streaming or playing games on your Chromebook, you won’t have trouble with performance.

With this VPN, you get a wide selection of servers – over 9700 of them in 91 countries. This will help you find plenty of servers that aren’t overcrowded and can deliver excellent performance.

With CyberGhost, you can even bypass geo-restrictions on plenty of streaming sites. This includes Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and more.

As for features, like with most reputable providers, you get a functional kill switch. Aside from that, there’s an ad blocker that prevents annoyances while browsing. And if specialized servers are what you’re looking for, there are some for streaming, gaming, and torrenting.

CyberGhost allows connecting up to 7 devices per account. Plus, you don’t have to instantly commit long-term – there’s a 45-day money-back guarantee available.

To find out more, visit our CyberGhost review.

6. IPVanish – intuitive and speedy VPN for Chromebook

Based in:	United States
Servers/countries:	2000+ servers in 50 countries
Works with:	Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Current deal:	🔥Get 72% OFF IPVanish!🔥

Visit IPVanish

IPVanish is another solid VPN Chromebook choice for users. You can get its intuitive app through the App Store and enjoy unlimited simultaneous connections on top of solid speeds. It’s a great solution if you want to share the VPN with friends and family.

IPVanish has a server fleet of over 2000 servers in 50 countries. Such huge numbers let you virtually travel through any part of the world. And you won’t trip over overcrowded servers only.

Combine this with the WireGuard protocol of IPVanish and you’ll have some decent VPN speeds. That’s exactly what our tests showed – it managed to retain around 80% of initial internet speeds.

You can use these speeds to enjoy buffering-free streaming of geo-restricted content libraries. This includes Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, and so on.

For a little extra cash, you can get the SugarSync feature. It’s up to 500GB of encrypted storage that you can use to store sensitive files. You can also use the traffic obfuscation feature if you don’t want anyone to know you’re using a VPN.

In terms of privacy, IPVanish does collect your email address and billing information, which isn’t ideal. However, your online activities and other personal information are not logged.

IPVanish prices start at $3.33/month. Be aware that only the annual subscription includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.

For more information, visit our IPVanish review.

7. Ivacy VPN – secure VPN for Chromebook

Based in:	Singapore
Servers/countries:	5700+ servers in 68 countries
Works with:	Windows, Mac, Android, iOS
Current deal:	🔥Get Ivacy VPN, now 90% OFF + gift!🔥

Visit Ivacy VPN

Ivacy VPN is a convenient option for Chromebook devices as it offers 10 simultaneous connections, a great Android app, and solid security features.

While there’s no app specifically designed for Chromebook, the Android app works wonders. It’s very easy to navigate, and you’re going to get a server network of over 5700 of them in 68 countries.

Ivacy VPN has a clear no-logs policy available – it doesn’t collect any data related to your online browsing. It even supports anonymous payments, so you don’t have to leave any data about yourself.

One of Ivacy VPN’s drawbacks is that it doesn’t support the WireGuard protocol. That being said, the speeds of its OpenVPN protocol are solid. The VPN managed to retain around 58% of initial speeds on average.

In terms of streaming, you can use Ivacy VPN to unblock such streaming services as Netflix US library, BBC iPlayer, and YouTube.

One of the features that Ivacy VPN offers is Secure Download. It monitors what you download in real time and looks for harmful or malicious contents. So not only is your data protected from prying eyes, you’re also secured from malicious threats.

Prices of Ivacy VPN start at $1.00/month. There’s also a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it for a month risk-free.

You can learn more in our Ivacy VPN review.

How we selected and tested these VPNs

We had several vital features in mind when putting together this list. From important features to basics that need to be ticked off, here’s what’s to look out for when selecting the best VPN for Chromebook.

• Compatibility. Ideally, your chosen VPN will have an app that’s optimized specifically for Chrome OS. Failing that, a strong Android app that works well on Chromebook will still do the job.
• Speed. Fast connections make your online life more convenient. The fastest VPNs deliver speedy connections, so you can get the best out of streaming, gaming, torrenting, and everything else you do online. To test the provider's speed, we start with a base speed of 300Mbps. Then we connect to different protocols on VPN and then torrent a file of around 3 Gb size.
• Streaming capabilities. Using a VPN for streaming is one of the most popular uses of this service, yet not all do the job equally well. So we tested a number of VPNs and shortlisted top VPNs for Chromebook that can get around the geo-restrictions of all major streaming platforms. For example, Surfshark can unlock 28 Netflix libraries.
• Price. Nobody wants to feel ripped off. In this list, we have included some of the cheapest VPNs on the market. Our suggested options are light on your wallet, yet don’t compromise when it comes to service and quality.
• Security and privacy. With all sorts of online threats and snoopers looking for your data, security and privacy are key. These VPNs offer robust security to keep you safe and anonymous.

Why do I need a VPN on my Chromebook?

If you’re using a Chromebook there are a few reasons why you might need a virtual private network (VPN). Here are the most common ones:

• Remove restrictions on a school Chromebook. Schools can be quite strict regarding the types of websites you can access on their network. It’s highly likely that entertainment websites will be blocked. With a VPN set up on your Chromebook, you can connect through a VPN server and get around any blocks that might be in place.
• Unblock streaming sites. Chromebooks aren’t the most powerful computers, so many people use them solely for things like streaming. With a VPN set up, you can get around geo-blocking and access the different global content libraries of streaming sites like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video.
• Increase privacy and security. A VPN makes sure nobody can monitor your online activity, so you’re free to do whatever you want. This is great for security: if your IP address is hidden and your data is encrypted, you get greater protection from hackers and spies.

Get NordVPN on Chromebook

Can I use a VPN on a school Chromebook?

VPNs are very useful tools that keep your internet connection secure and private, while public networks. They’re also great for accessing region-restricted content. Content that may be limited on your school Chromebook.

So a question remains – can you use a VPN on a school Chromebook? And the simple answer is yes. Using a VPN is not illegal or forbidden in any shape or form.

However, in some instances, the school might have an official statement noting that the use of a VPN on your school Chromebook is not allowed. If that’s the case, check with your school's administration to see if you can use the VPN.

How to setup a VPN on a Chromebook

Setting up a VPN on your Chromebook is pretty easy, and there are three main methods of doing so. You can simply download it from the Google Play app store, use the sideloading method, or install the VPN as a browser extension.

Here are simple step-by-step instructions for the installation methods.

Installing a VPN for Chromebook

1. Open the Google Play Store.

2. Search for your chosen VPN’s app and install it, we recommend NordVPN, off 63% now.

3. Open the VPN app and log in.

4. Connect to your preferred server.

Visit NordVPN

Using a VPN on Chromebook via a browser extension:

1. Go to your chosen VPN’s website, and find the link for the browser extension of your choice. We recommend NordVPN, now 63% OFF!
2. Install the extension
3. Click on the extension icon, and log in
4. Connect to your preferred proxy server

Why is my VPN not working on Chromebook?

Running into issues regarding successfully connecting Chromebook to your VPN is common. There might be several reasons why your VPN is not working on Chromebook. Make sure you rule out the general connection issues that might be hindering the Internet connection and its stability.

Since most VPNs have at least an Android app, you’ll find that the majority of VPNs will work on your Chromebook. However, there are some VPNs that are known to offer substandard service as well as bad security practices and may even infect your Chromebook with malware.

Here are some VPNs you should avoid:

• TurboVPN. This VPN is well known and popular, but it‘s also known to log your data. That can include your location, the devices you’re using the VPN on, and your IP address.
• CrossVPN. Many reports suggest CrossVPN carries malware that will infect your Chromebook. Avoid.
• HolaVPN. HolaVPN should be avoided, as it shares your idle bandwidth with other people. If they’re up to no good online, you could catch the blame.
• Betternet. This is a free VPN, but what you don’t pay in money, you pay in privacy. Betternet stores all sorts of your data, which is a big red flag.
• SuperVPN. Another VPN that’s been reported as hiding malware. Also, SuperVPN stores your data.

Interestingly, a common denominator of the above VPNs is that they are all free, which brings us to our next point.

Is there a free VPN for Chromebook?

Yes, there are quite a few free VPNs for Chromebook. However, we don’t recommend opting for free-forever services.

For one, it's vital to remember that the supplier will still need to generate an income. This is often done via apps riddled with ads and selling user data to third parties. Plus, some unreliable free VPNs can just be malware in disguise.

An alternative option is finding a reputable VPN that also offers a free version, in other words – a freemium VPN. These will be secure, but unfortunately, they will probably have limits on your usage and scaled-back features.

We recommend you to try the following ones:

• Atlas VPN – offers good speeds, security and helps you browse safely. However, it has a daily data cap of 5GB and won’t unblock geo-restricted streaming services.
• Proton VPN – provides decent security levels and doesn’t impose any data limits.
• Windscribe – offers a decent free version. You get a good range of features, and your monthly data cap is set at 10GB. It’s not perfect, but it’s worth a try.
• Hide.me VPN – lets you connect to 5 countries and use it on one device. Also, there’s a 10GB monthly data limit that you can only exceed if you update to premium.

Conclusion

In a nutshell, if you’re interested in ramping up your online privacy, maximizing your content options no matter where you are, and staying secure online, getting a VPN for Chromebook is a no-brainer.

If you’re using a Chromebook at work, a VPN will help you get around content blocks to stream shows and play games when you’ve got some spare time between classes. If you’re at home downloading torrents, it will make sure your ISP and content owners won’t be able to see your activity.

The best VPNs mentioned on this list, like NordVPN and other affordable options will help to shield your online identity. With so much to gain and so little to spend, getting a VPN for your Chromebook is a must-do if you want to have a safe experience online.

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