5 Best VPNs for China: Bypass the Great Firewall

Last Updated on October 14, 2025 by Editorial

Getting past China’s internet blocks takes more than just any VPN. The best VPNs for China need to beat the Great Firewall without getting caught, which is harder than it sounds. A lot of popular services either don’t work at all or stop working after a few days.

China blocks Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, and most foreign news. So if you’re traveling, living there, or doing business, a reliable VPN can be the only way to stay connected. But not all VPNs are built for this kind of pressure. The right one has to avoid detection and still keep speeds usable.

In this post, I’ll walk you through five VPNs that work in China. Each of them has been around long enough to prove they can handle the blocks and bounce back when the government cracks down.

If you’re looking for a virtual private network that won’t quit on you mid-trip, these are the names to know.

5 Best VPNs for China

Here are the China best VPN recommendations for protecting  your internet activity and accessing blocked sites in China:

1. NordVPN – Best VPN for China Overall

In China, privacy isn’t just about peace of mind; it’s about protection. NordVPN is the best VPN for China, and it starts strong with AES-256 encryption. This is military-grade, and it’s the kind of encryption governments use to protect top-secret data.

It scrambles your internet traffic so well that even if someone were monitoring your connection, they wouldn’t know what you’re doing.

NordVPN also supports several VPN protocols, including OpenVPN protocol (TCP and UDP), IKEv2/IPSec, and NordLynx, which is both fast and secure.

This matters because China’s firewall actively targets VPN protocols. NordVPN’s protocol variety makes it harder to block.

Furthermore, NordVPN just introduced a new protocol called NordWhisper. It’s a discreet protocol that helps users connect to VPN servers on networks that usually limit regular VPN traffic.

You can also pick from over 7,000 servers in 118 countries. That includes a bunch of nearby countries like Taiwan, which usually means better speed from inside China.

NordVPN also offers something called obfuscated servers. These are specialized servers that hide the fact you’re even using a VPN. That’s key in China, where traditional VPN traffic often gets flagged and shut down. 

With obfuscation, NordVPN helps you blend in with normal internet traffic. We discuss this and more in our NordVPN review.

On top of that, NordVPN sticks to a strict no-logs policy. They don’t record what you do, where you connect from, or which sites you visit. This policy has been audited five times by outside firms. So if Chinese authorities ever did make a request, there’d be nothing to hand over.

As for speeds, we ran tests from multiple cities in China using different Asian servers; Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong, and NordVPN kept up.

Pages loaded quickly. Videos played without buffering. Downloads didn’t hang. There was some lag during peak hours, but much less than we expected, and the VPN connection never dropped.

The combination of fast speeds and large VPN server networks makes NordVPN one of the best streaming VPNs. China blocks a lot of streaming platforms outright, and most VPNs can’t sneak past those blocks.

NordVPN gets around this and can unblock Netflix, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, Hulu, Disney+, and a few others.

2. Surfshark – Most Affordable VPN for China

Surfshark is one of the best VPNs for China if you’re watching your budget, but don’t let the price fool you. This isn’t a stripped-down or half-baked service. Surfshark packs in plenty of power, and it works where others fail.

When it comes to security, Surfshark doesn’t play around. It uses AES-256-GCM encryption, which is the same level used by governments and banks.

It also supports several protocols that include WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2. WireGuard is the default on most platforms because it’s both fast and reliable.

There’s no logging either. Surfshark is based in the Netherlands, but more importantly, it’s been independently audited to confirm that it doesn’t keep records of what you do online.

You’re protected whether you’re browsing news sites, using social media, or accessing email.

You also get features that help you stay hidden even if censorship tightens. Surfshark’s NoBorders mode kicks in automatically in places like China, giving you access to servers that are more likely to work behind Chinese government filters.

There’s also Camouflage Mode, which makes your VPN traffic look like normal internet traffic. That makes it harder for Chinese networks to even detect you’re using a VPN at all.

I tested Surfshark’s speeds from inside China using multiple servers across Asia. The results were solid. VPN Connections to Singapore, Taiwan, Japan, and South Korea delivered smooth browsing and reliable video playback.

The streaming test was also smooth without any incident. I accessed multiple Netflix libraries (US, UK, Japan), and streams loaded in high quality with minimal buffering.

It also worked on YouTube, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video. Some servers took an extra second or two to connect, but once they were up, the connection held steady.

The Surfshark app works on Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and even Linux. It also supports browser extensions and works with smart TVs and routers. You can also connect an unlimited number of devices through the same account.

Surfshark has one of the cheapest VPN prices on this list. Read more on that in our Surfshark review.

3. ExpressVPN – Fastest VPN for China

ExpressVPN is another great VPN provider to choose for dealing with the Great Firewall of China. As the second-best VPN for China, ExpressVPN uses AES-256 encryption, which is as secure as it gets.

This kind of encryption scrambles your data so no one can see what you’re doing.

It also supports multiple protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and its own Lightway protocol. Lightway is a standout here. It’s fast, reliable, and built from the ground up with connection stability in mind.

That’s especially useful in China, where connections tend to drop or slow down without warning.

ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands, a privacy-friendly location that doesn’t require data retention.

The service follows a strict no-logs policy and has RAM-only servers. Nothing about your browsing, connection timestamps, or IP address is stored.

Speed is where ExpressVPN truly excels as one of the best VPNs for China. A big reason for that is Lightway.

While other VPNs rely on heavier protocols that take time to connect and re-establish, Lightway is quick to reconnect when something drops. It uses fewer resources and keeps the connection stable, even over weak Wi-Fi or mobile data.

ExpressVPN also has 3,000+ servers in 105 countries, including a strong selection close to China.

That matters. Connecting to nearby servers usually means faster performance, and with ExpressVPN, you rarely have to guess which one will work best.

The VPN also works with all major streaming sites. I tested it with Netflix US, UK, Japan, and more.

It also worked smoothly with Disney+, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, and even region-locked YouTube content. Streams played in HD with barely any buffering, even on mobile data.

ExpressVPN works the same on Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Linux and the setup is quick. If you’re stuck behind the Firewall with no app store access, you can download everything from their mirror sites or get setup guides sent via email.

On the price scale, ExpressVPN is on the higher end. It starts from $4.49 per month. The upside is, you get exactly what you pay for.

ExpressVPN allows up to 8 simultaneous device connections and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

4. Private Internet Access – Best China VPN for Privacy

Private Internet Access (PIA) is often mentioned among the best VPNs for China, especially for users who prioritize privacy and affordability.

While it may not be the fastest or most feature-rich option, it offers a solid balance of security, usability, and value that makes it a practical choice for many in China. journey.

PIA’s security features are designed to meet the needs of VPN users in high-surveillance environments like China.

It offers customizable encryption settings, allowing users to choose between AES-128 and AES-256 encryption levels. This flexibility lets you balance security and speed based on your specific needs.

As one of the best VPNs to use in China, PIA supports both OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols, providing options for users who prefer either traditional or newer, faster protocols.

PIA also includes a kill switch feature, which prevents data leaks by disconnecting your internet if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly.

Importantly, PIA has a strict no-logs policy, meaning it does not record your online activities. This policy has been independently audited, adding an extra layer of assurance for privacy-conscious users.

PIA boasts a vast network of servers in 91 countries, with a dedicated server location in mainland China and Hong Kong.

Alongside its budget-friendly pricing, PIA places a strong emphasis on privacy and security. You can unblock most restricted sites in China.

In terms of speed, PIA performs adequately but may not be the fastest option available.

Speed tests have shown that while PIA can handle general browsing and streaming, it may experience slower speeds compared to some competitors, especially on distant servers.

Streaming is also smooth on PIA, and you can access services like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. That said, streaming performance can vary, and some users may need to try different servers to find one that works reliably.

This trial-and-error approach is common among VPN services used in mainland China due to the country’s aggressive VPN-blocking measures.

Tailored to support P2P file sharing, PIA offers optimized servers and a secure environment for torrenting activities.

Users can download and share files without compromising privacy or exposing their IP addresses, making it the Best Torrenting VPN for China.

You can use PIA on your everyday devices like Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. The interface is straightforward, making it accessible for both beginners and advanced users.

The VPN also supports unlimited simultaneous connections, allowing you to protect all your devices with a single subscription.

Moving on to pricing, PIA is one of the more affordable VPN options, with plans starting at $2.03 per month for a one-year subscription. T

his pricing makes it an attractive choice for users looking for a budget-friendly VPN without compromising on essential features.

5. Astril – Secure VPN for China

Astrill VPN has built a reputation as one of the best VPNs for China, primarily due to its consistent ability to bypass the country’s stringent internet censorship.

Its proprietary StealthVPN protocol is specifically designed to evade deep packet inspection, a technique employed by China’s Great Firewall to detect and block VPN traffic.

This makes Astrill a reliable choice for users seeking uninterrupted access to restricted content within China.

Astrill VPN employs AES 256-bit encryption, ensuring that user data remains secure and inaccessible to unauthorized parties.

The service offers a kill switch feature, which automatically disconnects the internet if the VPN connection drops, preventing potential data leaks.

Additionally, Astrill supports multi-hop connections, routing traffic through multiple servers to add an extra layer of anonymity.

Astrill claims a strict no-logs policy, but some reviews have raised concerns about its data collection practices. Most note that the company may record identifiable information such as device fingerprints.

In terms of performance, Astrill VPN delivers impressive speeds, particularly on its SuperCharged servers optimized for VPN users in China.

Tests have shown impressive speeds with minimal latency, making it suitable for activities like streaming and torrenting.

However, some users have reported inconsistent speeds on certain servers, suggesting that performance may vary depending on the VPN server location and network conditions.

Astrill’s user interface is geared more towards advanced users, offering a range of customizable settings and features.

While this provides flexibility for tech-savvy individuals, it may present a learning curve for beginners.

As for pricing, Astrill VPN is priced higher than many competitors, with plans starting at $12.50 per month.

This premium pricing reflects its specialized features for VPN users in China, but it may be a deterrent for those seeking a more affordable option.

Additionally, Astrill does not offer a money-back guarantee, which is uncommon among VPN providers

How We Chose the Best VPNs for China

Choosing the best VPNs for China isn’t just about speed or price. The Great Firewall is aggressive and smart, so you need tools that work inside the country.

We tested real conditions, checked for long-term reliability, and focused on what really matters for people living in or visiting China.

Here’s what helped us decide the best VPNs to use in China.

• Ability to Bypass the Great Firewall: The best VPNs for China must consistently get through blocks. We looked for ones with obfuscation tools and stealth protocols that made traffic look “normal.” If a VPN didn’t get past the wall during peak crackdowns, we ruled it out fast.

• Connection Stability Inside China: Speed means nothing if your connection keeps dropping. The best VPNs for China aren’t just fast, they needs to stay connected for hours without interruptions, even on mobile networks or crowded hotel Wi-Fi.

• Device Compatibility and Apps: The best VPNs for China must support a wide range of devices. Android and Windows are more common there than iOS or Mac, and routers matter for home use.

• Speed and Server Access: China’s internet can be slow, so using a VPN shouldn’t make it worse. The best VPNs for China offered stable access to nearby servers in Asia while keeping speeds high enough for video calls, streaming, and work.

• No-Logs Policy and Privacy Features: Some VPN providers claim privacy, but the best VPNs for China need to have a solid reputation and clear policies. We avoided any provider with vague terms or shady business practices, especially those based in countries that are part of the surveillance alliances.

• Reliability During Crackdowns: Some VPNs stop working completely during political events or national holidays. The best VPNs for China kept working, even when others failed. A reliable VPN doesn’t just work today. It survives long-term censorship pressure.

• Affordability: Living in China long-term? Cost adds up. We only chose VPN services that give good value without hidden fees. The best VPNs for China gave users a way to test everything safely before committing.

Are VPNs Legal in China?

No, VPNs aren’t exactly illegal in China. However, the rules around them are strict. The government only allows access to VPNs that it approves, and those are heavily monitored.

That means most foreign VPN services aren’t technically allowed under the current VPN law in China. 

People who try using VPN in China without government approval can face fines, especially if they’re selling or promoting them locally.

That said, many individuals, especially foreigners and business travelers, still use VPNs to get around internet restrictions.

The Chinese government has built strong systems to block access to popular sites like Google, YouTube, Instagram, and even some news outlets.

So, many users still look for the best VPNs for China to get reliable access to those platforms. 

These VPNs use technology to get past the Great Firewall without drawing attention. But not every VPN can do this consistently, so people often turn to providers that have a solid track record, like NordVPN.

If you plan to use a VPN in China, you’ll need to set it up before arriving. Many VPN websites are blocked inside the country, making it hard to download or update the apps once you’re there. 

Some of the best VPNs in China offer special versions of their apps to make detection harder. Features like stealth protocols or obfuscated servers are key for staying connected.

Services that regularly update their servers and invest in keeping them hidden tend to work better and longer.

NordVPN China users often mention its consistent speed and smart design for this kind of use. It’s not the only option, but it’s one of the best VPNs for China based on how often it manages to stay ahead of government blocks. 

Just remember, using VPN in China always comes with some risk, and things can change quickly.

If you’re planning to rely on one, choose a VPN that’s known to adapt fast and gives clear updates when problems come up.

Tips for Using VPNs in China

Having the best VPNs for China is crucial, but there are additional tips to consider for uninterrupted internet access:

• Understand VPN usage guidelines: Familiarize yourself with any restrictions or guidelines regarding VPN usage to comply with local China VPN laws and avoid potential issues during your stay.

• Install VPN before arriving in China: Set up your preferred VPN service before entering China, as popular VPN apps may be removed from app stores and VPN websites blocked within the country. Having the VPN installed in advance ensures you have access upon arrival.

• Use multiple VPNs: Have multiple VPNs simultaneously since certain services might get blacklisted by Chinese authorities. Installing a backup VPN allows you to switch seamlessly if you experience downtime.

• Keep VPN software updated: Regularly update your VPN software to benefit from the latest technology and security features. VPN providers continuously work on staying ahead of China’s blocking efforts.

• Choose VPNs with obfuscation technology: Many premium VPNs have features that disguise your VPN traffic as conventional internet traffic. This is an essential feature for getting over the Great Firewall because it makes it more difficult for authorities to detect and block your VPN connection.

Incorporating these tips into your VPN usage in China will help you navigate the digital landscape more easily and confidently, ensuring you can access the open internet securely and freely.

Are VPNs Safe to Use in China?

Concerns about VPN safety in China are valid, but choosing a reputable VPN provider can provide a secure online experience.

Premium VPNs invest in advanced security features, like encryption, tunneling protocols, and strict no-logs policies.

Despite China’s official crackdown on unauthorized VPNs, their use remains common among individuals and organizations.

Government-approved VPNs follow specific regulations under licenses but may face stricter monitoring and offer varying privacy and security levels compared to non-approved services.

Using VPNs in China carries potential legal risks, and individuals and businesses must exercise caution. Be aware of the Chinese Communist Party regulations and restrictions.

Conclusion

NordVPN remains my top recommendation for the best VPNs for China. It is fast, secure, and has multiple servers you can connect to and access what you need.

Other alternatives you can switch to include ExpressVPN, Surfshark, Private Internet Access, and Astrill.

Whatever choice you go with, make sure you’re ready for possible blocks since China keeps improving its ability to identify VPN traffic so they can block it.

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