Best VPNs for Hong Kong in 2025
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Government surveillance and censorship have become a source of concern in Hong Kong. As a result, internet freedom is shrinking. Some services are banned, while others can’t operate freely. Platforms such as TikTok, ChatGPT, and Clubhouse, for example, have been forced to stop operations due to regulatory compliance issues. Now, Hongkongers are using VPNs to connect to them.
VPNs are becoming increasingly important for privacy protection. They not only help to avoid censorship and government surveillance, but they also protect against other cyber threats. After all, Hong Kong citizens' internet activities are at risk of being exploited by hackers and other third parties.
However, to receive efficient protection, you need to choose a reliable VPN provider. We tested dozens of VPN services and found the best VPNs for Hong Kong to protect your security and privacy. We compared VPNs by geo-unlocking capabilities, speed, and performance to find the perfect offer for you.
Top 5 best VPNs for Hong Kong
- NordVPN – best VPN for Hong Kong overall
- Surfshark – fast and efficient VPN for Hongkongers
- IPVanish – private and secure VPN for Hong Kong
- Windscribe – best free VPN with Hong Kong IP addresses
- Proton VPN – reliable free VPN with servers close to Hong Kong
How to choose Hong Kong VPN?
Choosing the best VPN for Hong Kong will depend on your needs. However, there are several key aspects to consider, no matter why you need a VPN. Let's look through the most important features:
- Servers in Hong Kong. A VPN with servers in Hong Kong can provide faster connections and better performance. It will allow you to unblock geo-restricted content while traveling abroad or when you want to stay local while hiding your tracks.
- Strong encryption. Look for industry-leading encryption. Today's strongest cipher is AES-256 which can protect your online activity from prying eyes.
- Kill switch feature. The kill switch secures your data from leaking in case your VPN connection drops. Without this feature, you risk your data being accidentally exposed. Thus, you should always look for a reliable kill switch when picking a VPN.
- No-logs policy. A VPN can only guarantee full anonymity and privacy through an audited no-logs policy. It's best to avoid VPNs that are shady about their logging practices.
- Compatibility. Since many providers focus their efforts on a particular device or OS, you may experience subpar service if support for your device is not well-developed. Thus, make sure that your chosen provider offers cross-platform support.
The best paid VPNs for Hong Kong – our detailed list:
We tested dozens of providers to compile a list of the best paid VPNs for Hong Kong. As a result, we present you with the leading three options that deliver the highest security, speed, and privacy.
1. NordVPN - overall best security suite to stay safe in Hong Kong
| Based in: | Panama |
| Servers/countries: | 7100+ servers in 118 countries |
| Logging: | Audited no-logs policy |
| Current deal: | Get 72% OFF NordVPN |
NordVPN is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a Hong Kong VPN. This VPN offers robust security, a wide range of features, and excellent server coverage.
Servers: NordVPN has a large network of over 7100 spread across 118. It offers as many as 70+ servers in Hong Kong and over 100 servers in Taiwan. The broad coverage allows the VPN to successfully unblock various geo-blocked services with no lags.
Security: it employs industry-leading AES-256 encryption capable of preventing anyone from intercepting your data. On top of that, NordVPN offers a triple-audited no-logs policy and RAM-only infrastructure, guaranteeing that your data is not stored or shared.
Features: NordVPN offers several advanced features that make it stand out as a VPN service. One of its most notable features is Threat Protection, which prevents malicious software and ads from infecting your devices. Additionally, NordVPN works well with popular streaming platforms, including Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime.
Compatibility: the provider offers excellent cross-platform compatibility. It works well with all major operating systems, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. The service allows users to connect up to 6 devices simultaneously, and it also offers manual configuration options for routers and other devices.
Price: You can get this outstanding VPN for $3.39/month. You also get a 30-day money-back guarantee and can even try it beforehand with a free NordVPN 7-day trial on Android.
To learn more, check our NordVPN review.
2. Surfshark VPN - fast and well-performing VPN for Hongkongers
| Based in: | The Netherlands |
| Servers/countries: | 3200+ servers in 100 countries |
| Logging: | Audited no-logs policy |
| Current deal: | Now up to 86% OFF Surfshark + 3 months FREE |
Surfshark VPN is another top-tier VPN service when you need a Hong Kong IP address. The provider offers excellent connection speeds and security for a budget-friendly price.
Servers: Surfshark has a network of 3200 servers in 100 countries, with 20 servers in Hong Kong. There's also a wide selection of servers in neighboring regions such as Macau and Taiwan.
Security: Undeniably, Surfshark VPN is a security-minded provider. It offers robust security features, such as advanced AES-256-GCM encryption. Additionally, it has a strict no-logs policy, meaning it doesn't log or store user data.
Features: If a well-performing VPN is not enough, Surshark guarantees additional value. It includes a CleanWeb feature that blocks ads, trackers, and malware. It also has a double VPN feature which allows you to connect via two VPN servers at once for an added layer of security. On top of that, Surfshark is excellent at geo-unblocking. Thus, you'll have no issues streaming Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hulu worldwide libraries while living in Hong Kong.
Compatibility: Surfshark VPN is compatible with Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Fire TV, and Apple TV, as well as Chrome and Firefox. Additionally, Surfshark allows unlimited simultaneous connections.
Price: This wallet-friendly provider comes with a price tag of $2.19/month. Don't forget that you can take advantage of a 30-day money-back guarantee and a free trial for Android devices.
Check our complete review of Surfshark VPN to get the full picture or examine Surfshark vs NordVPN.
3. IPVanish – private and secure Hong Kong VPN
| Based in: | United States |
| Servers/countries: | 2400+ servers in 100 countries |
| Logging: | Audited no-logs policy |
| Current deal: | Now up to 83% OFF IPVanish |
IPVanish offers global and completely private servers for people from Hong Kong. Its rapid speeds and security features ensure smooth and safe VPN use.
Servers: the provider has over 2400 servers in over 100 countries worldwide, though not in Hong Kong, due to its status change bringing in stricter online monitoring. This is one of the examples of how IPVanish prioritizes user privacy and service integrity.
Security: this VPN uses advanced security features to ensure user data remains secure. It employs AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, and a strict no-logs policy, meaning user activity and personal data are not recorded or monitored. Furthermore, it has a similar Threat Protection feature to NordVPN.
Features: IPVanish Threat Protection feature warns users about malicious websites and blocks ads and trackers. It also comes with Livedrive encrypted storage and split tunneling. But the best thing about this provider is its excellent streaming capabilities. It unblocks BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, Netflix, and other popular services.
Compatibility: it is compatible with major operating systems such as Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. It also supports popular web browsers, including Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. The provider also comes with unlimited simultaneous connections.
Price: IPVanish costs $2.19/month. Every IPVanish plan has a 30-day money-back guarantee so that you can test it without risks.
Read more about IPVanish in our full review.
The best free VPNs for Hong Kong – our detailed list:
Free VPNs are often very limited in terms of security and features. However, using a free VPN is better than not using one at all. Thus, we also tested free providers to see which delivers the most value for users in Hong Kong.
1. Windscribe – best free VPN with Hong Kong IP addresses
| Based in: | Canada |
| Servers/countries: | 480+ servers in 69 countries |
| Logging: | No-logs policy |
| Current deal: | 🔥 Now up to 55% OFF!🔥 |
Windscribe is the best free VPN that helps Hong Kong residents securely access restricted content. Given that it's free, the provider is relatively fast, safe, and well-performing.
Servers: the free version of Windscribe VPN offers 10 servers in 11 countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Hong Kong. Meanwhile, the premium version offers a larger pool of 480 servers in 63 countries.
Security: Windscribe's free VPN version provides basic security features like AES-256 encryption. The VPN protects you while using public Wifi and prevents trackers from stalking you around the internet.
Features: the provider offers a firewall and DNS leak protection. These features are sufficient enough for protection as well as bypassing restrictions. However, advanced features, like a kill switch and split tunneling, are only available in the paid version.
Compatibility: this VPN is compatible with various devices and platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux, as well as your Chrome and Firefox browsers.
Price: Windscribe free version comes with a 10GB data cap. Thus you may consider the premium version. The subscription has unlimited simultaneous connections and costs $5.75/month.
Lern more about the Windscribe VPN features in our review.
2. Proton VPN – reliable free VPN with servers close to Hong Kong
| Based in: | Switzerland |
| Servers/countries: | 9900+ servers in 117 countries |
| Logging: | No-logs policy |
| Current deal: | 🔥Get up to 64% OFF ProtonVPN🔥 |
Proton VPN is another best free VPN for Hong Kong. It’s free version offers strong encryption protocols and great performance, making it a great choice for people in Hong Kong who want to protect their online privacy.
Servers: Proton VPN offers three free servers in Japan, the Netherlands, and the United States. While there are no free servers in Hong Kong, this VPN is a great option to access foreign geo-restricted content.
Security: The free version offers strong security features, including AES-256 encryption and secure servers that protect against network-based attacks. Additionally, it has a strict no-logs policy to ensure user data privacy.
Features: ProtonVPN offers a Secure Core feature, which routes your internet traffic through multiple servers to provide additional security and privacy protection. It also includes a kill switch that automatically disconnects you from the internet if your VPN connection drops, protecting your privacy and sensitive information.
Compatibility: the provider offers compatibility with various devices and platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. It also provides browser extensions for Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Opera.
Price: ProtonVPN offers unlimited bandwidth, even for a free version. However, if you want more benefits, the premium version price starts at $3.59/month. For the price, you'll get 10 simultaneous connections and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Learn more in our Proton VPN review.
How we tested these Hong Kong VPNs
It's impossible to know which VPN is good at and what it does without comprehensive testing. Thus, we took dozens of VPNs for a spin to document their performance. We tried to unblock geo-restricted content, measured their speed, and checked every feature. Here's the list of other criteria we looked at:
- Servers in Hong Kong. The first thing we looked at was server locations. The most suitable Hong Kong provider should offer a decent amount of servers in this area.
- Security and privacy. Security is the basis of a good VPN. Thus, we picked only the provider that offers market-leading encryption – advanced AES-256 cipher. On top of that, we looked at logging policies. Strict and audited is the way to go.
- Features. The best VPNs don't only deliver a server you connect to. Instead, they should offer a wide range of features, such as a kill switch, obfuscation, and more, for a reasonable price.
- Good for streaming. Streaming is one of the most common VPN use cases. After all, many Hongkongers enjoy streaming Netflix libraries and other platforms. We tested how well providers get around the geo-restrictions on popular streaming platforms and added only the best performers to the list.
Why do you need a VPN in Hong Kong?
A VPN is an excellent choice for both the residents and travelers of Hong Kong. This tool will protect your privacy and provide access to restricted content. Here are some additional reasons why you may need a VPN in Hong Kong:
- Bypassing censorship. In recent years, Hong Kong's government has tightened the control and censorship of the internet. By using a VPN, you can easily bypass website bans and regain freedom of expression and the right to access information.
- Privacy protection. Due to a lack of internet freedom protection, Hongkongers are at risk of government surveillance and monitoring. Third parties, such as ISPs and even hackers, also pose a threat to users' privacy. A VPN can encrypt your internet connection and protect your online activities from prying eyes.
- Unblocking geo-restrictions. Whether you're living in Hong Kong or traveling outside the country, you may face geo-restrictions. For example, the Netflix US library cant is accessed by Honkongers. However, a VPN can provide access to geo-restricted content, allowing you to stream BBC iPlayer, and Netflix or access foreign gaming platforms.
- Online purchase protection. A VPN can keep you safe from theft or fraud if you're worried about your online transaction details being leaked. Furthermore, VPN allows you to bypass pricing discrimination and find cheaper goods and services in other countries.
Best Hong Kong VPNs compared
| Brand | Rating | Servers in Hong Kong | Country | Kill switch | No-logs policy | Max connections | Streaming services | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | Yes | Panama | Yes | Yes | 10 | Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and more | $3.39/month | |
| Surfshark | Yes | The Netherlands | Yes | Yes | Unlimited | Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and more | $2.19/month | |
| Windscribe | Yes | Canada | Yes | Yes | Unlimited | Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube | $5.75/month | |
| ProtonVPN | No | Switzerland | Yes | Yes | 10 | Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, HBO Max, Disney+ | $3.59/month |
How to get a Hong Kong IP address with a VPN
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Choose a reliable VPN provider. We recommend using NordVPN.
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Download and install the application.
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In the settings menu, find a kill switch and turn it on.
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Find a Hong Kong server and connect.
- Enjoy a safe and private browsing experience.
Internet censorship in Hong Kong
According to the Freedom House's 2022 report, Hong Kong's internet freedom has been steadily declining since the passage of the National Security Law in 2020. The law gives the government broad powers to monitor and censor online activities, including requesting user data from internet service providers and blocking online content deemed illegal.
In 2021, the government requested several online platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, and Google, remove posts related to the pro-democracy movement and protest activities in Hong Kong. As a result, Freedom House rates Hong Kong's internet freedom as "partly free."
Overall, the current climate on the web is unfavorable to the Hingkongers. To secure their privacy, citizens are using VPNs. This way, they can access restricted content and avoid surveillance.
Are VPNs legal in Hong Kong?
Yes, VPNs are currently legal in Hong Kong. There are no laws that expressly prohibit VPNs or their use. As a result, Hongkongers can freely purchase and use VPNs both inside and outside the country.
However, if internet freedom in Hong Kong continues to deteriorate, VPNs may be restricted as well. The recently enacted National Security Law empowers the government to prohibit content or services deemed a threat to national security. Thus, if the officials decide to declare VPNs as a threat, they are likely to be banned.
Currently, an increasing number of Hong Kong residents use VPNs to gain access to popular platforms such as TikTok, Netflix US, and others. They also avoid possible government surveillance and censorship by using the service.
Does China's Great Firewall work in Hong Kong?
No, the Great Firewall of China doesn't work in Hong Kong. Since the region has a separate legal system from the rest of China, it is not subjected to the same censorship laws.
Fortunately, Hong Kong does not currently use the same level of internet censorship as mainland China. Many websites and platforms that are blocked in mainland China, including social media sites like Facebook and Twitter, are accessible in Hong Kong.
However, the government has demonstrated intent on blocking online content and restricting access to certain websites and online platforms.
What content is banned in Hong Kong?
The Hong Kong government blocks various content under the new National Security Law. As a result, pro-democracy websites, some social media pages, and news outlets were removed. In addition to political content, the government has also blocked or restricted access to websites and online platforms related to pornography, gambling, and illegal file sharing.
Many services are finding it difficult to comply with the National Security Law. For example, TikTok has decided to seize operations in the region, following the concerns of official oversight of social media. Reportedly, social media companies such as Facebook and Twitter are also reviewing operations in Hong Kong.
Should I use a free VPN in Hong Kong?
While a VPN can help you protect your online privacy and security, not all VPN services are created equal. Free VPN services come with limitations. They don't compare with premium VPNs in terms of speed and server location coverage. Additionally, free providers often don't have no-logs policies. This may result in your data being sold or handed over to government agencies or advertisers.
Since Hongkongers are at risk of government surveillance and censorship, free VPNs may not offer sufficient protection. Thus, we recommend using a premium VPN service, such as NordVPN or Surfshark, that offers strong encryption, a large network of servers, and a strict no-logging policy to protect your privacy and security. Premium VPNs also typically offer better customer support and more reliable performance than free VPNs.
Final thoughts
Unfortunately, internet freedom in Hong Kong is steadily deteriorating. As censorship and content restrictions become more common, users take matters of privacy into their own hands. As a result, VPN use is increasing.
VPNs permit access to restricted content. Whether it's due to government censorship or copyright laws, a reliable VPN service will allow you to bypass the restrictions. However, you must select the appropriate provider.
Whether you're living in Hong Kong or simply trying to access its regional content, we recommend using NordVPN. This provider offers as many as 70 servers in the region, as well as a pool of 5500+ servers spread across 60 countries. This way, it guarantees a fast and lag-free experience.
FAQ
What is the best VPN to use in Hong Kong?
The best VPN to use in Hong Kong is NordVPN. This provider offers a full security suite that efficiently bypasses censorship and content blocking. With a wide arsenal of features, NordVPN guarantees top-notch privacy against any third party. On top of that, it delivers excellent geo-unblocking capabilities for streaming, gaming, and other platforms.
Which VPN has a Hong Kong server?
NordVPN has over 70 servers in Hong Kong, making it an excellent choice for the region. With a total fleet of 5500+ servers spread across 60 countries, this provider offers enough servers in neighboring areas, too. NordVPN demonstrates excellent capabilities when unblocking restricted content while maintaining top-notch privacy.
Can I access ChatGPT with a VPN from Hong Kong?
Yes, you can access ChatGPT with a VPN. Keep in mind that ChatGPT will ask you for SMS verification. In order to bypass it, you'll need to get a SIM card from a country where ChatGPT operates or ask a friend from abroad for help.
How to use TikTok in Hong Kong?
You can only access TikTok in Hong Kong by using a VPN. For this, download a VPN application for your mobile device, such as NordVPN, and connect to the server in a location where TikTok is available.
Is Hong Kong inside the Great Firewall?
No, Hong Kong doesn't operate inside the Great Firewall of China jurisdiction. Since Hong Kong has a separate legal system from the rest of China and is not subject to the same censorship laws.
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