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Best VPNs for Chromebook in 2024


Chromebooks are known to be relatively safe, thanks to automatic updates; however, even that cannot guarantee complete privacy online. That's where a VPN comes in. Using a VPN with your Chromebook ensures your Internet Service Provider (ISP) or cybercriminals can’t see what you’re doing online. Plus, you can access geo-restricted sites and platforms by changing your virtual location.

But not all VPNs work well with Chromebooks and ChromeOS. To find the perfect ones for 2024, the research team and I evaluated 43 VPN services based on overall speed, security, feature effectiveness, and other vital aspects. Let's dive into the best VPNs for Chromebook.

6 best VPNs for Chromebook

inga_valiaugaite_author Nijolė Simaitienė copywriter at Cybernews sarunas karbauskas vincentas
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The best VPNs for Chromebook in 2024 – detailed list

One of the main metrics I used to select potential VPNs for Chromebook is Google Play Store compatibility because ChromeOS is integrated with the app store for the user’s convenience and software variety. In total, together with the research team, I evaluated 43 services before uncovering the 6 best VPN providers for Chromebook devices.

1. NordVPN – best VPN for Chromebook in 2024

NordVPN banner
Google Play Store rating:
4.4
Servers/countries:6300+ servers in 111 countries
Compatibility:
ChromeOS, Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS
Current deal:Now up to 74% OFF + 3 months for free!

NordVPN is the best VPN for Chromebook due to its exceptional performance in all the categories I tested. It is the top choice for anyone looking for the most reliable and effective VPN at a reasonable price. With a strong 4.4 rating on the Google Play Store and 896K reviews, it is a top choice for reliability and effectiveness.

Security and privacy. NordVPN’s no-logs policy has been verified by independent auditors multiple times. Based in Panama, it isn’t subject to data retention laws. The unique Threat Protection feature blocks ads, trackers, and scans downloaded files for malware. It also offers two kill switches and a Dark Web Monitor to alert you if your data is compromised.

Servers and bypassing geo-restrictions. This VPN boasts an impressive 6300 server network across 111 countries. It’s worth mentioning that the service expanded its country selection fairly recently to compete with other providers like Surfshark and ExpressVPN.

Besides regular options, NordVPN customers can choose specialized servers, such as Double VPN, Onion over VPN, obfuscated, and P2P. Crucially, the entire fleet utilizes RAM-only hardware to delete any information whenever the servers are restarted or unplugged. Other VPN services with this excellent perk include Surfshark, ExpressVPN, and CyberGhost.

During NordVPN tests, the VPN showed outstanding results. It worked with the majority of popular Netflix libraries I evaluated (US, UK, Canada, Japan) and other streaming platforms, including Amazon Prime Video, Max, and Hulu.

Performance. According to our tests, NordVPN is the fastest VPN in 2024. Using its in-house NordLynx protocol, the service easily maintains an impressive 90% speed retention rate, the most significant among the tested Chromebook VPNs. Meanwhile, other providers usually rely on the WireGuard tunneling protocol, which is the foundation upon which NordLynx is built.

Pricing. Starting at just $3.09/month, NordVPN offers excellent value with 10 simultaneous connections and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Best of all, a 7-day free trial is available on the Google Play Store, making it suitable for Chromebook users.

NordVPN is perfect for users who need a high-performance VPN with robust security features and excellent streaming capabilities. It's ideal for anyone looking to protect their privacy and enjoy seamless online experiences. I recommend it for frequent travelers who need reliable access to geo-restricted content.

2. Surfshark – Chromebook VPN for unlimited devices

Surfshark banner
Google Play Store rating:
4.4
Servers/countries:3200+ servers in 100 countries
Compatibility:
ChromeOS, Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS
Current deal:Now up to 86% OFF + 3 months FREE

Surfshark VPN is a close second to NordVPN as a great Chromebook VPN option. It even surpasses the #1 provider in certain areas by offering unlimited simultaneous connections and more affordable prices, making it perfect for budget-conscious buyers. However, it’s not as strong regarding security and privacy. In any case, Surfshark has a 4.4 rating on the Google Play Store and around 109K reviews.

Security and privacy. Surfshark VPN isn’t ideal in terms of privacy because the provider is based in the Netherlands, which is a member of the 9-Eyes alliance. On the other hand, its zero-logs policy was audited by Cure35 as well as Deloitte, the same company that audited NordVPN.

What’s noteworthy is that Surfshark provides an impressive security feature arsenal despite its affordable price. For starters, it includes CleanWeb for blocking ads, trackers, and malware. There’s also NoBorders mode for bypassing various online censorship and restriction methods, such as the ones in schools. To top it off, the unique IP Rotator will periodically change your IP address without interfering with the VPN connection. If that’s not enough, subsequent Surfshark subscription tiers unlock antivirus and identity protection tools.

Servers and bypassing geo-restrictions. Surfshark’s network spans 3200 servers across 100 countries, which is pretty solid but not particularly massive. Like NordVPN, the provider allows routing your connection through multiple servers for added protection via MultiHop specialty servers. Another similarity is the use of RAM-only servers to ensure absolute user privacy.

I was happy that Surfshark fared well in the streaming department. Its country diversity allowed me to unlock a vast array of global Netflix libraries, including British, German, Australian, American, and Indian catalogs. Naturally, other streaming services like YouTube TV and BBC iPlayer were also no match for Surfshark’s geo-bypassing capabilities.

Performance. In-houseSurfshark speed tests yielded solid results because the provider employs WireGuard for fast connections. More precisely, I enjoyed 86% speed retention on average, which is more than enough for high-quality streaming, online gaming, and browsing.

Pricing. Surfshark’s prices are very appealing, starting at just $2.19/month. It’s one of the cheapest premium VPNs you can find, and there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee included. Moreover, the 7-day free trial is available on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store for testing on any device besides Chromebook.

Surfshark is ideal for families or users with many devices, offering unlimited connections and solid security features at an affordable price. Surfshark is great for sharing a VPN with friends during group travels, as it handles multiple connections without issues.

3. IPVanish – well-rounded VPN for Chromebook

IPVanish
Google Play Store rating:
4.2
Servers/countries:2400+ servers in 55 countries
Compatibility:
ChromeOS, Windows, Mac, Android, iOS
Current deal:Now up to 83% OFF + 3 months FREE!

IPVanish is a well-priced and effective VPN that should appeal to users looking for an under-the-radar VPN for Chromebook. It is similar to Surfshark, with unlimited device connection support per account, making it a worthwhile alternative for securing massive households. On the Google Play Store, IPVanish boasts a 4.2 rating and around 57K user reviews.

Security and privacy. Continuing with the Surfshark similarities, IPVanish’s jurisdiction choice is questionable but also redeemed with an independent audit of its no-logs policy. More specifically, the service is based in the United States (a founding member of the 5-Eyes alliance). However, Leviathan audited its logging policy, and any suspicions of government cooperation can be discarded.

Among IPVanish features, we also have Threat Protection. Unfortunately, unlike NordVPN’s variant, this feature doesn’t scan your downloaded files.

Servers and bypassing geo-restrictions. IPVanish offers around 2400 servers across 55 countries, which is lackluster compared to other Chromebook VPNs I overviewed. Another drawback is the absence of RAM-only servers, which would significantly enhance the provider’s reliability.

While the provider doesn’t include specialized streaming servers, I had no issues unblocking my favorite streaming platforms, including Netflix, Max, Disney Plus, Hulu, and many more.

Performance. IPVanish employs the open-source WireGuard protocol to guarantee lightning-fast speeds while streaming or surfing the web. While using the service, it retained roughly 80% of the initial connection speed on average.

Pricing. IPVanish prices start at $2.19/month. Be aware that only the annual subscription includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.

IPVanish is great for users looking for a reliable VPN with unlimited device connections, particularly useful for securing multiple devices in a household.

4. ExpressVPN – Chromebook VPN with excellent privacy practices

ExpressVPN banner
Google Play Store rating:
3.8
Servers/countries:Servers in 105 countries
Compatibility:
ChromeOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS
Current deal:Now up to 48% OFF + 3 months FREE!

Go with ExpressVPN if confidentiality is your main concern while using your Chromebook. The service boasts numerous independent audits that go beyond its no-logs policy. Compared to CyberGhost, ExpressVPN offers better privacy practices but at a higher price point. Overall, users give it a 3.8 rating on the Google Play Store, along with roughly 369K reviews.

Security and privacy. Privacy is arguably ExpressVPN’s greatest draw. For starters, the service is based in the British Virgin Islands, which is known for its excellent privacy attitude. Most importantly, the service conducted over 15 independent audits of its various technologies, although only one was focused on the no-logs policy.

Despite its high price, ExpressVPN doesn’t include more security features than NordVPN or Surfshark. On the one hand, it includes an ad blocker, a kill switch, and tracker removal using Threat Manager. There’s even a password manager (ExpressVPN Keys) included at no extra cost, which is pretty uncommon among VPNs. However, there’s no option to expand upon the default package like with NordVPN and Surfshark.

Servers and bypassing geo-restrictions. Unfortunately, ExpressVPN doesn’t disclose the exact number of servers it operates. The last known number is 3000which is similar to what Surfshark offers. The server location selection is also on par and covers 105 worldwide countries.

You’ll have no trouble unblocking various streaming platforms using ExpressVPN. In-house tests showed admirable results with numerous Netflix libraries, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and beyond.

Performance. ExpressVPN is similar to NordVPN because it achieves excellent connection speeds with a proprietary tunneling protocol. However, Lightway is built from scratch and doesn’t rely on WireGuard. During our evaluations ExpressVPN easily retained around 77% of our original speed on average.

Pricing. ExpressVPN prices start from $6.67/month. While the price is a bit higher, you can connect 8 devices. And if anything, there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee available.

ExpressVPN is perfect for privacy-conscious users willing to pay a premium for top-notch security and global content access. My experience with ExpressVPN has been fantastic for maintaining privacy during sensitive online activities, and it handles geo-blocked content effortlessly.

5. CyberGhost – great Chromebook VPN for beginners

CyberGhost VPN banner
Google Play Store rating:
4.20
Servers/countries:11500+ servers in 100 countries
Compatibility:
ChromeOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS
Current deal:Now up to 84% OFF + 4 months FREE!

CyberGhost VPN is an affordable and user-friendly option for users inexperienced with VPNs. The default app configuration is pretty solid, meaning making any changes is unnecessary if you don’t want to. It also has the most expansive server fleet (11500+ servers in 100countries) among our selected Chromebook VPNs. Finally, users grant CyberGhost VPN an average 4.0 rating on the Google Play Store across 153K reviews.

Security and privacy. Despite its affordable price, CyberGhost offers robust digital protection. Its Romanian base is excellent for privacy, as the country is not part of the 14-Eyes alliance and has no mandatory data retention laws. Essential security features include a kill switch to prevent IP leaks if the connection drops and a content blocker to remove malicious ads and improve web loading times. For those needing more, CyberGhost offers an optional Security Suite for Windows, which includes antivirus and security updates.

Servers and bypassing geo-restrictions. CyberGhost VPN has no trouble dealing with geographical limitations, thanks to its extensive server fleet. I especially enjoyed the fact that the network is split into various categories to improve user convenience. For example, it has servers for specific streaming services (Netflix, Crunchyroll, Channel 4, Paramount+, etc.), making unlocking the content you desire easy.

Performance. Like most worthwhile VPNs, CyberGhost VPN employs the WireGuard protocol to provide swift connection speeds. During our tests, the service yielded about 86% speed retention on average, which is more than enough for lag-free streaming.

Pricing. CyberGhost prices start at $2.03/month. This VPN also allows connecting up to 7 devices per account. Plus, you don’t have to commit long-term – the provider offers the most extended 45-day money-back guarantee among the top Chromebook VPNs.

CyberGhost is perfect for VPN beginners looking for a user-friendly, budget-conscious option with extensive server coverage. Its straightforward interface and helpful tutorials make it ideal for those new to VPN technology, ensuring they can navigate and utilize the service effectively.

6. Ivacy VPN – the cheapest VPN for Chromebook

Ivacy VPN banner
Google Play Store rating:
3.0
Servers/countries:5700+ servers in 55 countries
Compatibility:
ChromeOS, Windows, Mac, Android, iOS
Current deal:Now 88% OFF + gift!

Ivacy VPN is the most affordable Chromebook VPN, thanks to its $1.17/month starting price. Unsurprisingly, while it’s cheaper than other options like ExpressVPN, it lacks some advanced features. Additionally, its 3.0 rating on the Google Play Store might cause doubt for the average consumer.

Security and privacy. Although Ivacy VPN is based in Singapore, which isn’t a part of the notorious 14-Eyes alliance, the region does have some suspicious data retention laws. Moreover, the service lacks independent no-logs policy audits that would confirm the service’s dedication to user confidentiality. Thankfully, you can at least purchase the VPN anonymously to minimize the data you share with it.

There’s also a noticeable absence of extra security features. While there is a kill switch for IP leakage protection, I was disappointed the service doesn’t include an ad blocker like many other services I reviewed.

Servers and bypassing geo-restrictions. Ivacy VPN provides an acceptable fleet of 5700+ servers across 55 countries. While the overall number is impressive, the country variety is a bit lackluster. Moreover, the service is similar to IPVanish in that it lacks RAM hardware for added privacy.

On the flip side, the service includes streaming-optimized servers for specific platforms. So, consider Ivacy VPN a cheap VPN for unblocking Max, Netflix, Hulu, and other coveted content platforms.

Performance. As expected, Ivacy VPN employs the WireGuard protocol to keep up with other Chromebook VPNs I overviewed. During my time with this VPN, it mustered an average 32% speed retention rate.

Pricing. Prices of Ivacy VPN start at $1.17/month. There’s also a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it for a month risk-free.

Ivacy VPN is best for users on a tight budget who need basic VPN features. While it may not offer the highest speeds or the most advanced features, it provides good value for its price. I found Ivacy VPN to be a practical choice for casual browsing and occasional streaming on a Chromebook.

Best VPN for Chromebook compared

VPNRatingCompatibility
Security featuresServersPrice
NordVPN
4.9
Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOSAES-256 encryption, ChaCha20 encryption, NordLynx protocol, RAM-only servers, Kill switch, Threat Protection, Dark Web Monitor6300 servers in 111 locationsFrom $3.09/month
Surfshark
4.7
Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOSAES-256 encryption, WireGuard protocol, Kill switch, RAM-only servers, CleanWeb feature, Surfshark Alert3200 servers in 100 locationsFrom $2.19/month
IPVanish
4.5
Windows, Mac, Android, iOSAES-256 encryption, Kill switch, WireGuard protocol, Threat Protection, Obfuscated servers2400 servers in 55 locationsFrom $2.19/month
ExpressVPN
4.3
Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOSAES-256 encryption, Kill switch, Lightway protocol, IP & DNS leak protection, Threat Manager, Malware protectionServers in 105 locationsFrom $6.67/month
CyberGhost
4.2
Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOSAES-256-GCM encryption, Kill switch, WireGuard protocol, Content blocker, RAM-only servers11500 servers in 100 locationsFrom $2.03/month
Ivacy VPN
4.2
Windows, Mac, Android, iOSAES-256 encryption, Kill switch, WireGuard protocol, IP and DNS leak protection5700 servers in 55 locationsFrom $1.17/month

How we tested and ranked Chromebook VPNs

Our VPN testing process varies slightly depending on the goal of the article. For this guide, we tested all VPNs on a Chromebook laptop to evaluate their effectiveness and user experience on the ChromeOS device. Here’s a summary of how we tested and ranked these Chromebook VPNs:

  1. Compatibility. With our research team, I only picked VPNs available on the Google Play Store that provide an app optimized for Chromebooks.
  2. Speed. Excellent VPN connection speeds are vital for a frustration-free online experience. While testing, I connected to various worldwide servers the VPNs provide and tested their speed retention to ensure their results matched our expectations. You can find more information about their performance on our VPN speed test tool.
  3. Streaming capabilities. A solid VPN for streaming can easily bypass streaming platform geographical restrictions while keeping excellent connection speeds. Moreover, it must have an immense server fleet across numerous countries to unlock as much foreign content as possible. I tested the VPNs above with popular platforms like Netflix, Max, Hulu, and more.
  4. Ease of use. With our research team, we paid attention to each provider’s user interface and how easy it was to accomplish various VPN-related tasks. After all, there’s no point in suggesting a VPN service that the average user can’t utilize effectively.
  5. Price. In this list, I have included some of the cheapest VPNs on the market. The suggested options are light on your wallet, yet don’t compromise when it comes to service and quality.
  6. Security and privacy. Ensuring the included security and privacy features are enough to keep customers safe from various attack vectors was vital.

Naturally, finding a perfect VPN that would accomplish everything without flaws is impossible. However, I used our test findings based on the criteria above to compile a list of VPNs for Chromebooks that offer the perfect balance in the most critical areas. Overall, NordVPN excels on almost all fronts.

How to choose a VPN for Chromebook

A buyer’s best VPN for Chromebook will depend on his needs and preferences. Below is a list of recommendations of what criteria to prioritize when choosing a Chromebook VPN for specific goals.

  • Streaming and geo-block removal. The most vital feature for bypassing various geo-restrictions is the number of VPN servers and countries, as it determines the number of available IP addresses. You can expect good results with NordVPN or CyberGhost and their massive server fleets.
  • Security. It should come as no surprise that the best VPNs for security have the most extensive feature sets. However, many providers, such as Surfshark, lock antivirus features behind an increased price. As such, I recommend NordVPN because it includes Threat Protection in the standard subscription plan.
  • Privacy. You can be confident a VPN will keep you anonymous if it adheres to a strict no-logs policy and resides in a privacy-respecting country. NordVPN is the top option in this regard, thanks to its 4-times audited no-logs policy and Panamanian jurisdiction.
  • Online gaming. Gamers need VPNs for DDoS protection without negative ping impact. The former benefit is included by default, while the latter is guaranteed if you choose a gaming VPN with servers close to your location.
  • Browsing. No need to overthink your choice if your priority is secure and private web browsing. I suggest picking a VPN with extensions for your preferred browser so you can surf the web without needing additional software.

Is there a free VPN for Chromebook?

Yes, you can find many proxy server providers on the Google Play Store masquerading as free VPNs for Chromebook. However, I don’t recommend using them for various security and performance reasons.

Firstly, proxies aren’t as secure as actual VPNs because they lack encryption and instead simply reroute your connection through another location. Thus, you’re missing out on the most critical privacy benefit. Moreover, proxies differ from VPNs by usually employing obsolete protocols that are vulnerable to exploitation by threat actors. Plus, these old technologies are inefficient and result in slow connection speeds.

On the other hand, you will also find reliable VPNs with free tiers that are supposedly good enough for everyday use. While this is an acceptable alternative to proxies, you will have to contend with severe limitations, such as fewer server options, slower speeds, and monthly data caps.

To escape freemium VPN limitations, I recommend using free trials of premium VPN services:

  1. NordVPN – offers a 7-day free trial for Android, as well as a 30-day money-back guarantee
  2. Surfshark – has a 7-day free trial for mobile devices (Android and iOS) and macOS, as well as a 30-day money-back guarantee

Can I use a VPN on a school Chromebook?

The simple answer is yes. Using a VPN on a school Chromebook is not illegal or forbidden in any shape or form. VPNs are very useful tools that keep your internet connection secure and private while on public networks. They’re also great for accessing content that may be limited on your school Chromebook.

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 do you unblock sites on a school Chromebook?

Your school might block third-party downloads or the Google Play Store altogether, so you won’t be able to download a VPN app. However, there is a way to manually get a VPN on a school Chromebook using a CA certificate from your VPN provider:

  1. Get a CA certificate from your VPN and store it on your Chromebook
  2. Open Chrome and type in chrome://settings/certificates
  3. Click on the authorities button at the top of page
  4. Click on Import and select the CA certificate
  5. Follow the instructions
  6. Click on your account at the bottom right of the page
  7. Choose Settings
  8. Go to Network and select Add a connection
  9. Click Add OpenVPN/L2TP
  10. Type in the required information and click connect

Once a VPN app is installed, you can easily access blocked sites by connecting to any VPN server. Additionally, if the above method doesn’t work, you can try installing a VPN Chrome extension to change your location as it usually doesn’t require administrator privileges.

How to setup a VPN on a Chromebook

Setting up a VPN on your Chromebook is pretty easy, and there are two 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.

Download a VPN for Chromebook

1. Open the Google Play Store

2. Search for your chosen VPN’s app and install it I recommend NordVPN, now 74% OFF

Install-the-NordVPN-app

3. Open the VPN app and log in

Login-to-the-account

4. Connect to your preferred server

connecting-to-a-chosen-location

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 I recommend NordVPN, now 74% 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 services 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. I suggest avoiding this provider.
  • 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 if 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 has been reported for hiding malware as well as storing your data.

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 school, 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.

According to extensive in-house research, the best VPN for Chromebook is NordVPN – it has an excellent Chromebook app, as well as 6300+ servers in 111 countries to connect to. It can also unblock virtually anything online and offers breakneck speeds.

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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