VPN Recommendations for China

In summary, accessing the internet in China can be quite challenging due to the restrictions imposed by the Great Firewall.

To navigate this obstacle, using a VPN becomes crucial for reaching essential news outlets and social media platforms.

It's important to note that the Great Firewall is frequently updated, leading to the blocking of many VPNs over time. Therefore, if you're planning a trip to China, make sure to install a VPN before you arrive, as many VPN websites may be inaccessible while you're there.

Our team has conducted thorough testing on 78 of the most popular VPNs from a server located in Shenzhen to determine their reliability in China. We only endorse VPNs that offer a money-back guarantee, given the fluctuating nature of VPN accessibility.

After extensive research, we have identified NordVPN as the top choice for users in China. It boasts outstanding speed, user-friendliness, and the capability to access all restricted websites.

Finding a trustworthy VPN for use in China is no simple feat. Many services are outright blocked, and various comparison websites may recommend options without adequate real-world testing. To ensure accuracy, we rented a server in Shenzhen and evaluated 59 prominent VPNs against the Great Firewall's defenses. Our comprehensive review highlighted VPNs that are fast, secure, and versatile enough to protect your privacy while in the country.

Here are our top recommended VPNs for use in China:

• NordVPN : This is the leading VPN for China, offering exceptional performance along with unique security features that ensure a fully anonymous browsing experience. It effectively bypasses censorship. Notably, the most economical NordVPN plan (standard) performs excellently in China.

  
  

• Surfshark : A no-logs VPN that maintains consistently high speeds. It stands out as one of the few VPNs with no connection limit, successfully overcoming the Great Firewall.

  
  

• ExpressVPN : Provides quick and dependable servers across over 100 countries. Users can browse safely in China without any additional setup, and it includes its own router application.

  
  

• Hotspot Shield : Known for its rapid speeds, affordable pricing, and proven success in China, Hotspot Shield is a reliable choice for anyone intending to visit.VyprVPN stands out with its own server infrastructure, providing exceptional speed and reliability, especially in restrictive areas such as China.

  
  

PureVPN is tailored for beginners and functions effectively in China, thanks to its automatic obfuscation feature that eliminates the need for manual setup.

PrivateVPN is a no-logs service that prioritizes user safety and operates flawlessly in China when stealth mode is active.

UltraVPN offers an affordable option for users in China, with user-friendly features and strong unblocking capabilities, ensuring dependable speeds.

For those considering a trip to China, NordVPN provides a comprehensive 30-day risk-free trial.

By signing up through their website, you can experience the top-rated VPN for China without any limitations for a month.

If you find that NordVPN doesn't meet your expectations, simply reach out to customer support within 30 days for a full refund—no hidden conditions involved.

Important Note:

While many VPNs promote safety and privacy, numerous free options tend to leak user information.

Our team rigorously tests the top 70 VPNs for security, ensuring that only those that maintain anonymity and do not track user activity are included in our recommendations. We also focus on VPNs that offer a full money-back guarantee for a risk-free trial.

Users often grapple with uncertainty regarding the performance of their VPN compared to others in the market.

At Comparitech, we believe transparency is essential, as services may not disclose if their competitors could be a better fit for specific needs.

Our comprehensive testing process covers a multitude of criteria, making it straightforward to outline each VPN's advantages and disadvantages.

Key areas of focus include:

• Security and Privacy: With the Chinese government closely monitoring online activities, robust security features are essential. We assess various criteria, such as supported protocols, logging practices, and the strength of encryption to ensure users’ activities remain confidential. Performance Consistency: * A VPN's speed can greatly affect your online experience, with fluctuations leading to unexpected disconnections. To assess this, we conducted extensive speed evaluations from within China, utilizing various Asian servers for each VPN to gauge realistic performance levels.

  
  

• Streaming Capabilities: While many users turn to VPNs for reasons beyond streaming, it remains a popular use case. Different streaming services employ various VPN-blocking technologies, making this a significant factor in our assessment. We tested each VPN against several widely-used platforms, including Netflix, HBO Max, and BBC iPlayer, to determine their effectiveness in bypassing restrictions.

  
  

• User Experience: Setting up a VPN in China often involves extra steps. We reviewed the usability of each VPN based on ten different criteria, including router compatibility and the consistency of the user experience across multiple devices.

  
  

• Cost Efficiency: Ensuring you receive good value for your investment is crucial. Our analysis looked into each VPN's connection limits, monthly pricing, and promotional offers to ensure we only recommend options that provide fair pricing relative to their features.

  
  

• Expert Evaluation: Our team of professionals, experienced in testing and reviewing consumer VPNs, provided scores out of ten based on their insights and experiences with each service. These ratings contribute to a comprehensive evaluation of each VPN.

  
  

For a deeper understanding of our evaluation methods and test outcomes, refer to the methodology section in this article. Now, let’s explore the standout VPN providers that met our criteria impressively.

We’ve highlighted key aspects of the leading VPNs available. Interested in detailed reviews? Begin with NordVPN – our top pick for users in China.

After extensive testing with a Chinese internet connection, we've compiled a selection of VPNs that effectively operate within China.

These services not only protect your online privacy but also allow you to bypass restrictions and access websites that are otherwise blocked due to the Great Firewall.

Here are our top picks for the most effective VPNs in China: Feb 2025 Works in China Tested Feb 2025When it comes to safely navigating the internet in China, NordVPN stands out as the premier choice.

Over the years, this VPN has consistently adapted to the evolving challenges posed by the Great Firewall, ensuring reliable access.

While users may occasionally experience brief interruptions, these are typically resolved swiftly, often within a day or two.

With an extensive network of more than 7,000 servers across 110+ countries, NordVPN offers ample options.

However, for those aiming to bypass China's strict censorship, it’s essential to utilize the obfuscated servers.

To access these, simply select more connection options from the server menu, then click on obfuscated servers to find your desired location.

Obfuscated servers tend to operate at reduced speeds due to their enhanced security protocols.

However, for users primarily focused on concealing their online activities from hackers or those managing public Wi-Fi networks, standard servers are typically sufficient.

We conducted tests on six servers located in Asia with a home broadband connection that offers approximately 48 Mbps.

NordVPN delivered an average speed of around 37 Mbps, which is more than adequate for activities such as streaming, video conferencing, and torrenting.

NordVPN has made significant strides in enhancing its privacy features.

Recent updates include automatic protection against malware and trackers, a tool to alert users about data breaches, and a distinctive feature known as Meshnet.

Meshnet allows users to channel traffic from various devices through a single point, which is especially beneficial for those in China who need to secure devices that have limited access to app stores or are incompatible with full VPN applications, such as smart TVs and gaming consoles.

Additionally, NordVPN undergoes regular audits, providing assurance that its claim of not retaining logs is reliable.

This VPN provider offers applications for a wide range of platforms, including Windows, Android, macOS, iOS, and Linux.

While most features are consistent across all versions, iOS users in China will need to manually set up their devices, which limits access to some advanced security options.

It’s also worth noting that NordVPN collects advertising IDs on mobile devices, so it’s advisable to clear these periodically to safeguard your privacy from advertisers.

For the average user, the basic subscription tier is usually sufficient. However, if you seek enhanced security features, the Plus Plan is worth considering. It encompasses the VPN service, phishing defense, and a scanner for data breaches.

If you’re willing to spend a bit more, the Ultimate Plan provides all of the previously mentioned benefits, in addition to 1TB of encrypted cloud storage and, in select regions, a cybersecurity insurance policy to help recover losses from hacks.

Opt for this VPN if:

• You seek a flexible VPN that has proven effective in China.

  
  

• You desire detailed control over your internet connection.

  
  

• You want to access geo-restricted content while traveling.

  
  

Avoid this VPN if:

• You mainly use iOS devices or prefer simpler features.

NordVPN stands out as our top recommendation for a VPN in China.

Prioritizing user privacy, it operates efficiently in heavily censored areas like China and is capable of managing various real-world online tasks.

Plus, it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to test the service without any financial risk.

For further insights, check out our detailed review of NordVPN. Works in China Tested Feb 2025For nearly five years, Surfshark has consistently delivered reliable VPN service within China.

This achievement is noteworthy, especially considering its affordable pricing.

Users benefit from a straightforward setup process, eliminating the need for complicated configurations or specialized servers to access the internet securely in highly censored regions.

Simply enabling the NoBorders mode allows users to disguise their data, making it resemble typical online activity, all while maintaining the robust security features that Surfshark is renowned for.

Is Surfshark the right VPN for your needs? The answer is a resounding yes.

Our team successfully accessed a wide array of streaming services, region-restricted games, and websites that are typically blocked in China.

With approximately 3,200 servers spread across over 100 countries, Surfshark stands out among consumer VPNs by allowing simultaneous connections for all your devices.

In our latest speed tests, Surfshark emerged as the fastest VPN. However, we wanted to ensure that users on standard home Wi-Fi would also experience good speeds.

While the connection was generally fast, we did notice a drop in speed when connecting to servers in South Korea and Hong Kong.

On average, Surfshark achieved speeds of around 33.13 Mbps in Asia—sufficient for streaming 4K content, though not the quickest option among those we evaluated.

The app interface may appear complex at first glance, but it is quite user-friendly.

The main dashboard features a location selection menu (complete with specialty server tabs), a quick connect option, and details about your internet connection.

Although there are several buttons on the left side, most are related to features available with Surfshark One subscriptions.

For those on the basic plan, accessing the settings is the primary requirement.

Exploring the features of this VPN reveals a variety of useful tools at your disposal.

It offers automatic blocking of ads, trackers, and malware, ensuring a smoother browsing experience.

Additionally, the option to allow specific websites or applications to bypass the VPN can be incredibly convenient, especially when connecting to unfamiliar networks.

Surfshark enhances user privacy by periodically changing your IP address while maintaining the same location, making it difficult to monitor online activities over extended periods.

From a security standpoint, it boasts robust encryption, leak protection, and an independently audited no-logs policy, providing ample assurance for private browsing.

The VPN is compatible with all major platforms and offers a range of pricing plans including monthly, annual, and multi-year subscriptions, along with Surfshark One, which includes extra privacy tools.

These additional tools feature a private search engine, an antivirus application, and a data breach alert system.

Notably, Surfshark also provides a personal detail generator that creates a fictional identity for users, facilitating registrations without sharing personal information.

Consider purchasing this VPN if:

• You need to secure multiple devices.

  
  

• Privacy and the ability to circumvent restrictions are top priorities for you.

  
  

• You prefer a user-friendly VPN that caters to both beginners and advanced users.

  
  

However, you might want to look elsewhere if:

• You require the fastest servers located in Asia.

In terms of budget-friendly options, Surfshark stands out as a cost-effective choice that performs exceptionally in China.

It is well-suited for daily use, featuring top-notch security and no limits on the number of connections.

All subscription plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Works in China Tested Feb 2025For those seeking a reliable VPN in China, ExpressVPN stands out as a leading choice.

Its user-friendly design ensures a seamless experience, with minimal complexity involved.

What sets ExpressVPN apart is its ability to automatically detect high-censorship environments and obscure your online activity without requiring manual adjustments.

With servers spread across more than 100 countries, it covers regions that are often neglected by other VPN services, including Cambodia and Nepal.

Navigating the app is straightforward; the main screen prominently features a location selection tool and a quick connect button.

In the settings menu, users will find options organized into clear tabs, each accompanied by succinct descriptions.

While it may not boast as many advanced features as some competitors, ExpressVPN does provide essential functionalities such as split tunneling, tracker blocking, and automatic connection.

ExpressVPN has developed a proprietary protocol called Lightway, designed to enhance performance for long-distance connections while being lighter than alternatives like OpenVPN.

Recently, the company upgraded Lightway to withstand advanced decryption techniques that may arise with the advent of quantum computing.

In our evaluations, we observed average speeds of 35 Mbps across six servers located in Asia. This means that users can comfortably engage in data-heavy activities such as streaming or torrenting without encountering any issues.

Furthermore, ExpressVPN boasts a comprehensive audit trail, reinforcing its commitment to a strict no-logs policy.

The service provides applications for various platforms, including iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, and Linux. While the functionality remains consistent across all versions, iOS users miss out on the kill switch feature, which ExpressVPN refers to as the "network lock."

Additionally, it stands out for offering custom firmware for routers, enabling users to secure their entire home network without sacrificing essential features like ad-blocking or the Lightway protocol.

ExpressVPN maintains a straightforward pricing structure, offering three subscription options: monthly, six-monthly, or annually. Payment can be made via credit card, PayPal, or Bitcoin. Although it is slightly pricier compared to other VPNs, the premium is justified by its exceptional user-friendliness and reliability.

Consider purchasing this VPN if you:

• Prefer a hassle-free setup process.

  
  

• Prioritize consistent and fast performance.

  
  

• Seek a trustworthy no-logs provider and are willing to invest a little more.

  
  

However, you might want to think twice if you:

• Are looking for the most budget-friendly option.

ExpressVPN excels at providing effortless security, making it an excellent choice for users traveling to China.

With its robust performance, automatically activated privacy features, and a well-established no-logs policy, it ensures peace of mind for its subscribers. Additionally, a 30-day money-back guarantee is offered.

For a comprehensive analysis, read our full review of ExpressVPN. Works in China Tested Feb 2025

Hotspot Shield Overview

Hotspot Shield operates under the ownership of Pango, which also owns UltraVPN.

This might explain the visual similarities you observe between the two services.

However, if you dig deeper beyond their almost identical user interfaces,

you will uncover distinct features that set Hotspot Shield apart,

making it a viable option worth exploring on its own merits.

Hotspot Shield stands out with its automatic Wi-Fi protection feature, activating seamlessly whenever you connect to a public hotspot. This is particularly beneficial, as the safety of your data can be uncertain in such environments. Furthermore, it has undergone independent audits verifying that no personal data is retained, enhancing user trust.

A unique aspect of Hotspot Shield is its integrated speed tester, allowing users to evaluate the performance of selected servers. While a wider selection would be ideal, the existing options still offer valuable insights.

With over 100 server locations available, including optimized servers for gaming and popular U.S. or U.K. streaming services, Hotspot Shield excels in bypassing geo-restrictions. Even the standard servers are effective, especially when utilizing the Hydra protocol, ensuring reliable access in regions like China.

Upon connecting, users are presented with a dashboard showcasing essential metrics such as server load, session duration, and peak speeds. Impressively, Hotspot Shield achieved an average speed of 39.28 Mbps across six Asian servers, demonstrating minimal speed reduction compared to regular browsing. This remarkable performance makes it an excellent choice for speed-sensitive activities.

You can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously across various platforms, including Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux. If you prefer, Hotspot Shield can also be manually set up on most routers, although this process may require more effort. Fortunately, 24/7 live chat support is available for assistance.

While Hotspot Shield does offer a free version, it is limited to one connection, a single server location, and basic operating system support. For more extensive features, users can opt for a premium plan available for one month or one year, though monthly subscriptions can be on the pricier side, with significant savings for longer commitments.

Consider Hotspot Shield if:

• You prioritize the fastest available speeds.

  
  

• You seek a secure, no-logs VPN that functions effectively in China.

  
  

• You wish to test the service before making a purchase.

  
  

However, it may not be the best choice if:

• You desire extensive control over customizable settings.Hotspot Shield stands out for its user-friendly interface, making it accessible for everyone.

It effectively navigates around VPN detection mechanisms, ensuring a seamless experience.

Alongside its impressive capability, it comes equipped with robust security features, maintaining a strict no-logs policy to protect user privacy.

Additionally, Hotspot Shield offers a generous 45-day money-back guarantee, providing users with peace of mind when trying out the service.

For an in-depth analysis, check out our comprehensive review of Hotspot Shield. Works in China Tested Feb 2025VyprVPN has established itself as a reliable choice over the past ten years, gaining a strong reputation in the VPN market.

One of its notable achievements is being the first prominent VPN provider to publicly disclose its audit results, although more frequent audits would enhance user trust.

When it comes to accessing popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, or Disney+ from different countries, VyprVPN performs exceptionally well.

But how does it fare in China? The service remains effective, especially when utilizing its unique Chameleon protocol.

This innovative protocol obfuscates OpenVPN traffic, making it difficult for the Chinese government to detect VPN usage, even with their sophisticated deep packet inspection methods.

Additionally, Chameleon periodically alters your IP address automatically, requiring no extra action from the user.

To start your secure browsing experience in heavily censored regions, simply click on customize located at the bottom left of the interface, select protocol , and opt for Chameleon before connecting to your preferred server.

This VPN provider boasts an impressive network of approximately 700 servers spread across more than 70 countries, with a significant presence in Asia.

While there are minor fluctuations in speed depending on the location, VyprVPN's overall performance left us quite satisfied.

In our tests, the averages from six Asian servers showed download speeds of 38.1 Mbps.

Remarkably, this made VyprVPN the fastest option we evaluated, second only to Hotspot Shield.

Such speeds are ideal for travelers who wish to enjoy 4K streaming, engage in video conferencing, or transfer large files while visiting the mainland.

VyprVPN offers dedicated applications for Linux, macOS, Windows, Android, and iOS, all equipped with robust encryption and leak protection.

However, split tunneling is limited to desktop versions, and iOS lacks a kill switch.

With a device limit set at five, users can bypass this restriction by manually installing the VPN on a router.

Should you need assistance, VyprVPN provides 24/7 support through live chat.

Priced at approximately $10 monthly, VyprVPN is competitive within the industry.

It also features annual and biannual plans that deliver substantial savings.

Unlike many competitors, VyprVPN maintains consistent pricing after the initial subscription period, ensuring no unexpected price hikes upon renewal.

Consider purchasing this VPN if:
You seek a privacy-focused service capable of handling diverse tasks.
You require consistently high speeds.

However, you might want to reconsider if:
* You need to secure multiple devices at once.

In terms of speed, VyprVPN excels with strong performance, an anti-censorship Chameleon protocol, and user-friendly applications.

Although there's a limit on simultaneous connections, the service offers a reassuring 30-day money-back guarantee.

For an in-depth analysis, feel free to explore our complete review of VyprVPN. Works in China Tested Feb 2025PureVPN stands out as one of the rare VPNs that effectively operates within China without requiring any additional steps from users.

This feature makes it an excellent option, especially for those looking to access streaming services.

The provider has undergone several audits, confirming its commitment to not retaining logs of user activities.

With a network of over 6,000 servers located in more than 65 countries, PureVPN offers a wide range of options.

Most servers are situated in Europe and the Americas, alongside a selection in Asia.

However, the absence of servers in Malaysia and Taiwan does affect its average speed performance.

Despite this limitation, PureVPN still achieves an average speed of 23.5 Mbps, which is adequate for typical online tasks.

Performance can vary greatly; while speeds were impressive in Japan, Hong Kong, and Singapore, South Korea's servers lagged significantly, with an average speed of just 8.1 Mbps.

Navigating PureVPN's interface is straightforward, although it does take up considerable space as it promotes additional services.

Users can easily connect from the home screen or explore specific settings, which is a plus.

Additionally, the ability to filter the server list for options like torrenting and port-forwarding is a feature we greatly appreciate.

While PureVPN may lack some advanced security features, it does offer useful tools such as tracker blocking, automatic connection, and the ability to allow certain apps to bypass the VPN. Additionally, it conceals your device from others on the network. A kill switch is included, although it's turned off by default; we highly recommend enabling it to ensure you're always protected during unexpected disconnections.

The pricing model for PureVPN is quite intricate. It utilizes a tiered approach, where higher-priced plans come with perks like a password manager and data cleanup services. You can also opt for additional features like port forwarding, removing connection limits, or securing a dedicated server for an extra fee. Recently, PureVPN introduced support for residential IP addresses, although this option significantly increases the monthly fee and may not be necessary for most users.

PureVPN's applications are compatible with macOS, Windows, Android, and iOS. Notably, it also offers a graphical app for Linux, making it one of the few providers to do so! If you find the limit of 10 simultaneous connections too constraining, you can follow manual setup guides to implement it on your router.

Consider purchasing this VPN if:

• You're a VPN novice seeking an easy way to maintain safety while traveling.

  
  

• You appreciate the flexibility to tailor your subscription plan.

  
  

However, you might want to look elsewhere if:

• You require a VPN with servers in over 100 countries.

Overall, PureVPN is a solid choice for secure browsing in China. It effectively operates under the radar, provides access to servers in over 60 countries, and typically offers good speeds on Asian servers. Plus, it comes with a 31-day money-back guarantee.

For more detailed information, check out our comprehensive review of PureVPN. Works in China Tested Feb 2025PrivateVPN takes a unique approach compared to many other VPN services.

Rather than expanding to a vast network, it focuses on providing around 200 self-hosted servers across approximately 60 nations.

This strategy ensures greater control over user traffic and enhances security.

Understanding that users come with varying levels of expertise, PrivateVPN features two distinct interfaces.

The first is user-friendly, designed for beginners to easily switch locations and connect.

The second interface caters to more experienced users, offering options to enable split tunneling, customize the kill switch, and more.

For those aiming to navigate the internet securely in China, using the advanced interface is essential, at least initially.

This is necessary to activate the stealth VPN feature, allowing users to bypass the stringent digital censorship imposed in the country.

When navigating the internet in China, utilizing a stealth VPN is crucial for broader access, although this feature may not be available in the basic interface of PrivateVPN.

Based on our analysis, PrivateVPN stands out as a dependable choice for circumventing region-specific restrictions. It demonstrates exceptional performance with streaming services that often challenge other VPNs, such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer. Users typically find it easy to connect to effective servers without repeated attempts.

In terms of speed, PrivateVPN generally performs well for various activities. During our evaluation, it achieved an average speed of approximately 74 Mbps. However, its smaller server network resulted in limited availability in certain Asian regions, leading to a lower average speed of 14.5 Mbps across tests. There were notable discrepancies in speed results, with the Hong Kong server yielding only 9.14 Mbps while the Malaysian server reached 37.85 Mbps. For those facing sluggish connections, exploring different server locations may help, although adjusting the encryption settings is not advisable in China.

PrivateVPN offers applications for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android devices. It can also be installed manually on most routers and Linux systems. For support, the provider offers live chat assistance. Up to 10 devices can be connected simultaneously, which is quite generous compared to industry norms.

One of the appealing aspects of PrivateVPN is its affordability, even for monthly subscriptions. Opting for a three-month plan provides a slight discount, and committing to a yearly subscription allows access to this no-logs VPN for just a few dollars monthly.

Consider subscribing to this VPN if:

• You seek a no-logs VPN that effectively navigates online censorship.

  
  

• You need to secure multiple devices without incurring high costs.

  
  

However, it may not be the right choice if:

• You require server locations in South Korea, Singapore, or Taiwan.When it comes to protecting your privacy while using a VPN in China, PrivateVPN stands out.

This service prioritizes user anonymity, making it suitable for both seasoned users and newcomers alike.

Whether you're into streaming, downloading torrents, or making video calls, PrivateVPN caters to all these needs efficiently.

As long as you select the appropriate server, you'll enjoy fast connection speeds.

Additionally, PrivateVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee with all its plans, ensuring that you can try it risk-free.

For more insights, be sure to check out our comprehensive review of PrivateVPN.

UltraVPN Overview and Features

UltraVPN may be relatively new compared to some established VPN services, but it is quickly gaining popularity among newcomers to the VPN world, largely due to its user-friendly design.

With a network of over 800 servers spanning approximately 100 countries, UltraVPN offers impressive connection speeds.

This makes it a reliable choice for users looking to access their preferred websites and online services while in China.

Furthermore, users in regions with stringent internet restrictions will appreciate the ease of use of this VPN.

By default, UltraVPN recognizes the need for enhanced privacy and automatically activates the Hydra protocol.

This proprietary protocol, which is also utilized by other Point Wild services such as Hotspot Shield, can be up to 2.4 times faster than OpenVPN.

Additionally, it effectively conceals any signs of VPN usage, enhancing user privacy.

If you ever need to switch protocols manually, simply click on the settings icon in the upper-left corner, select VPN Protocol , and then choose Hydra .

UltraVPN features a straightforward interface that makes it user-friendly.

The main screen prominently displays a quick connect button alongside a menu for selecting server locations.

Users can access the settings and additional tools offered in premium plans through icons located in the top left corner.

While it may not offer a plethora of advanced settings, it does provide options to allow specific applications to circumvent the VPN, conceal your presence from other devices on the same network, and enable the kill switch for added security.

How does this VPN hold up in practical situations?

Our team tested it across various streaming services and found it generally reliable, although speed fluctuated quite a bit.

Asian servers mostly delivered comparable speeds, but the average was pulled down to 33.93 Mbps, largely due to a significant drop on the Japanese servers, which only managed 8.18 Mbps.

While this speed is adequate for regular browsing, you might encounter delays when streaming HD content.

Ultravpn is particularly tailored for beginners and lacks some features.

For example, it's not compatible with Linux, routers, or Amazon Fire Stick.

On the upside, it allows protection for up to 10 devices at once, but the absence of live chat support is a drawback.

This lack of immediate assistance could be stressful for users trying to connect while in China, especially if they have to wait for hours for help.

Now, let’s discuss the pricing structure.

Ultravpn offers a single subscription option for a year, which, while not typical, is reasonable given its low monthly cost.

For just an additional dollar, you can upgrade to Ultravpn+, which includes features like a virus scanner, site blocking, and content-filtering tools.

These extras may not be essential for everyone, but having the option is beneficial.

Consider purchasing this VPN if:

• You need a straightforward VPN that functions well in China.

  
  

• You prefer an economical service that supports multiple connections.

  
  

However, it might not be ideal if:

• You require real-time customer service.

Ultravpn is designed for ease of use, boasting a user-friendly interface and solid flexibility at a competitive price.

It operates effectively in China, ensuring strong security and a strict no-logs policy, with a 30-day money-back guarantee attached to subscriptions.

If you plan to visit China, it’s advisable to install a VPN beforehand to simplify your experience.Navigating the internet in China can be challenging due to the Great Firewall.

For those already in the country, accessing VPN services requires a different approach.

Providers such as NordVPN and ExpressVPN have developed alternative methods, including mirror sites and non-detectable download links. However, these resources are not publicly listed, so reaching out to customer support is essential.

To effectively use a VPN while in China, follow these steps:

• Prior to your trip, choose a reliable VPN service, with NordVPN being a top recommendation.
• Download the application from the provider's official website or a trusted app store.
• Launch the VPN app and log in.
• Select a server located outside of China, ideally in a nearby country.
• Click the connect button and wait for the connection to establish.

Once connected, you will have access to social media platforms, news websites, and streaming services that are typically blocked in China. The VPN connection will continue running in the background.

If you encounter connection issues, consider switching servers or using a different protocol. Many VPN applications also offer obfuscation features to disguise your VPN traffic, making it less likely to be detected. Should you still face difficulties, contacting the customer support team can provide further assistance.

Recent updates from VPN providers include various enhancements:

• Visibility of virtual servers in country selection (September 2024).
• Safety checks for insecure Wi-Fi networks (September 2024).
• Extended referral rewards duration to three months (September 2024).
• Integration of a kill switch in browser extensions (September 2024).
• Enhanced threat protection for premium users (December 2024).
• Improved security for browser extensions (December 2024).
• Collaboration with Streamlabs for gamers and streamers (September 2024).
• Introduction of 10Gbps servers for increased speed (September 2024).
• Option for users to acquire their own IP addresses (September 2024).
• Feature for iOS users to bypass VPN for specific apps (October 2024).
• Expansion of server locations to 50 additional countries, totaling 107 countries and over 135 cities (October 2024).
• Launch of an advanced plan with a cloud browser and 1TB storage (October 2024).
• Implementation of an AI link checker in mobile apps (December 2024).
• Compatibility with Apple TV, Google TV, and Vision Pro (December 2024).
• Partnership with Rhino.fi to enhance protection for DeFi users (September 2024).
• Introduction of identity protection services for U.S. users (November 2024).
• Added credit checking features for U.S. users (November 2024).In January 2025, Lightway underwent an upgrade, transitioning to hybrid ML-KEM for enhanced post-quantum cryptography.

Navigating the internet in China can be challenging, as many VPNs fail to work effectively. Our recommendations go beyond mere functionality; we have established a comprehensive evaluation process that involves rigorous testing and specific criteria to identify the top VPNs suitable for use in China.

China consistently ranks at the bottom of the Internet Freedom Index, as reported by Freedom House, indicating significant restrictions on internet access and frequent violations of user rights. Given this context, our primary focus is on security when selecting VPNs for this region.

With extensive experience in VPN assessments, we have pinpointed 15 essential features that define privacy-oriented services. These include a strict no-logs policy and essential security measures like a kill switch. Here’s a complete rundown of these critical characteristics:

To evaluate the performance of various VPNs, we developed a scoring system that rates each service on a scale of ten, based on several key features.

This comprehensive scoring allows for a clearer comparison across different VPNs and provides a visual representation of their standings, as illustrated in the accompanying chart.

The results reveal that both NordVPN and Surfshark excelled, each earning an impressive score of 9.5, while ExpressVPN closely followed with a score of 9.2.

To ensure our findings reflect real-world usage, we conducted speed tests not just on theoretical performance but also in everyday conditions.

Our testing involved multiple servers located in six Asian countries: Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Taiwan, using a home broadband connection with an average speed of approximately 48 Mbps.

The data shows that Hotspot Shield emerged as the fastest provider, achieving an average speed of 39.3 Mbps and demonstrating consistent performance across tests.

In contrast, PrivateVPN faced challenges in Hong Kong, unable to maintain the same speed levels as in other locations. VPNs lacking adequate infrastructure in Asia were also at a disadvantage, receiving lower scores due to missing data points.

In an ideal scenario, a VPN should operate seamlessly without requiring much user intervention. However, when navigating the complexities of internet access in China, users often encounter issues related to reliability, manual configurations, or limited customer support.

Our team meticulously assessed each VPN, weighing factors that influence ease of use and overall user experience in China.

To evaluate the performance of various VPNs, we assigned scores on a scale of 10 after weighting and normalizing the collected data.

NordVPN and ExpressVPN emerged as the top contenders in terms of user-friendliness, with Surfshark not far behind.

On the other hand, UltraVPN received the lowest score of 5 out of 10. This was primarily due to its lack of support for routers, absence of specialized servers, and inconsistent features across different applications.

Typically, VPNs that successfully navigate the Great Firewall are also capable of accessing popular streaming services that are region-locked. However, our findings indicated that these VPNs often focus on major platforms, like Prime Video, and may not function well with smaller or lesser-known services.

To determine reliability, we rigorously tested each VPN against a variety of streaming applications. We also assessed whether they provided any additional features to enhance the viewing experience for users.

Below is a summary of the criteria we considered during our evaluation:

To evaluate the performance of various VPNs in terms of their streaming capabilities, we normalized and assigned weights to the scores for a direct comparison.

Interestingly, we observed a three-way tie among NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN, each achieving a commendable score of 9.2 out of 10. In contrast, UltraVPN fell short in our assessment, lacking support for popular streaming devices like the Amazon Fire Stick, as well as missing features such as ad-blocking and smart DNS services. Nevertheless, it did manage to access most of the platforms we tested.

While free VPNs in China are generally unreliable, that doesn’t mean you need to overspend to ensure your online safety. We took into account several elements, including the typical monthly subscription cost, the frequency of sales for each VPN, and the availability of free trials, before rating each provider on a scale of 10. Below are the criteria we evaluated:

Based on our evaluations, we've simplified the results for better clarity. Surfshark emerged as the top performer, thanks to its unlimited connections, affordable pricing, and various subscription plans. In contrast, Ultravpn ranked the lowest.

It's important to note that using a VPN remains legal in China. Despite numerous VPNs being restricted within the country, there is no official prohibition against their usage.

Many misleading headlines have suggested otherwise. In January 2017, a government body in China released a statement aimed at intensifying the crackdown on VPNs and specific cable services nationwide.

However, this statement does not classify the use of a virtual private network as illegal. This crucial detail has often been misconstrued by Western media outlets.

Disclaimer: We have conducted extensive research on this matter, but we are not legal professionals. Therefore, any information provided should not be considered legal advice. We recommend consulting local regulations or seeking professional counsel before using a VPN if you have doubts about its legality.

For those curious about website accessibility in China, we offer a tool that tests whether your preferred sites are blocked. Simply input the website URL, and our tool will evaluate access from various cities throughout China, giving you prompt results on any censorship.

While this list is not comprehensive, using a VPN in China can help you access the following platforms:

• All Google services (including Gmail, Google Translate, Google Search, Google Drive, Google Docs, Play Store, etc.)
• Facebook
• YouTube
• Twitter
• News outlets
• Instagram
• Tinder
• Snapchat
• Dropbox
• GitHub
• Vimeo
• SoundCloud
• Flickr
• Skype
• WhatsApp

Although many websites are continuously blocked by the Great Firewall, some may only face temporary restrictions. The Great Firewall controls all significant entry points for online traffic, often slowing international web connections significantly, particularly during government scandals, anti-government protests, and annually around June 4, the anniversary of the Tiananmen Square events in 1989. During such times, numerous VPN servers, including those used by businesses, may also be inaccessible.Digital censorship in China varies significantly across regions, with certain websites accessible in one area but blocked in another. This inconsistency suggests that the control over internet access often originates at local government levels rather than being a standardized approach throughout the country.

For example, Tibetan and Xinjiang provinces, notorious for their history of unrest, experience significant restrictions, allowing internet connectivity for only a few hours daily.

The Chinese authorities are diligent in thwarting consumer VPN services. If you find that your VPN suddenly becomes unusable, it may indicate that the Great Firewall has been modified, affecting your VPN's performance. Fortunately, these disruptions are typically brief, with most leading VPN services managing to implement solutions within a matter of hours or days.

In light of this, if you encounter issues, your best course of action might be to wait it out. Alternatively, experimenting with different protocols, activating stealth mode, or manually setting up your connection without relying on the VPN application could yield better results. Additionally, contacting your VPN's customer support can provide insights into whether the problem is widespread and if a resolution is underway.

For further reading, consider exploring these articles:

• Top VPNs for Asia in 2024 to access restricted websites and content

  
  

• A guide on acquiring a Chinese IP address using a VPN in 2025

  
  

• How to check if a website is blocked in China

  
  

• The 8 best VPNs for Turkey: Which ones still evade the VPN restrictions in 2025?

  
  

• A guide to obtaining an Indian IP address through a VPN in 2024

  
  

What is a Netflix VPN and How to Get One

A Netflix VPN is a virtual private network designed to help users bypass geographical restrictions by accessing Netflix content available in different regions. By connecting to servers in various countries, users can enjoy a wider array of shows and movies that are otherwise unavailable in their location. To use a Netflix VPN, one must select a reliable VPN provider that supports streaming, set up an account, install the VPN software, and connect to a server in the desired region to access the expanded Netflix library.

Why Choose SafeShell as Your Netflix VPN?

If you're looking to access region-restricted content by using a Netflix VPN, you may want to consider the SafeShell VPN . SafeShell VPN is an excellent choice for ensuring that Netflix is unblocked, thanks to its high-speed servers that are specifically optimized for seamless streaming. These servers provide lightning-fast connection speeds, which allow for buffer-free playback and high-definition streaming of your favorite shows and movies. Moreover, SafeShell VPN supports connectivity on up to five devices simultaneously, covering a wide array of operating systems such as Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and even Apple TV and Android TV.

Another standout feature of SafeShell VPN is its exclusive App Mode, which allows users to unlock and enjoy content from multiple regions at the same time, giving you access to a diverse range of streaming services and libraries. With SafeShell VPN, you can say goodbye to buffering and throttling, as it offers lightning-fast speeds with no bandwidth limitations, ensuring you experience unprecedented internet performance. Additionally, the VPN prioritizes your online privacy with its proprietary ShellGuard VPN protocol, providing advanced encryption and robust security features to protect your data, allowing you to surf the web with confidence.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Watch Netflix with SafeShell VPN

To enjoy Netflix content from various regions using SafeShell Netflix VPN , start by following these steps:

• Visit the SafeShell VPN website at https://www.safeshellvpn.com / and subscribe to a plan that suits your needs by clicking the "Subscribe Now" button.

  
  

• Download and install the SafeShell VPN app suitable for your device, whether it's Windows, macOS, iOS, or Android.

  
  

• Launch the SafeShell VPN app and log into your account. We recommend choosing the APP mode to enhance your Netflix experience.

  
  

• Browse through the list of available servers and select one located in the region of the Netflix content you wish to access, such as the US, UK, or Canada. Then, click "Connect" to establish a secure connection.

  
  

• Finally, open the Netflix app or visit the Netflix website, log in with your account, and enjoy streaming content from the selected region.