Best VPNs for China

China’s strict internet censorship policies, known as the Great Firewall, have made it difficult for internet users to access content from outside the country. To bypass online restrictions and maintain privacy and security, people rely on Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). However, not all VPNs are created equal when it comes to working effectively in China. Some VPNs may not work at all, while others may slow down your internet connection or compromise your privacy. In this article, we will explore some of the best VPNs for China, considering their speed, reliability, security, and ability to bypass the Great Firewall.

List of the Best VPNs in China

China is a strict country with restrictive laws that even ban VPNs. Amidst this, finding reliable VPNs that work well in the country:

1. ExpressVPN – A reliable VPN with fast speeds and a wide range of server locations worldwide.
2. NordVPN – A popular VPN with strong security features and a large server network.
3. Surfshark – A budget-friendly VPN with unlimited simultaneous connections and excellent speeds.
4. VyprVPN – A VPN with its own proprietary Chameleon protocol designed to bypass Chinese censorship.
5. Astrill VPN – A fast and reliable VPN with dedicated servers for China.
6. StrongVPN – A VPN with a focus on speed and bypassing censorship in China.
7. PrivateVPN – A VPN with good speeds and a no-logs policy for enhanced privacy.
8. Hotspot Shield – A VPN with a free version and a paid version with excellent speeds and strong security features.
9. CyberGhost VPN – A user-friendly VPN with dedicated servers for streaming and bypassing censorship in China.
10. ProtonVPN – A Swiss-based VPN with a strong focus on privacy and security, offering a free version and a paid version with faster speeds and additional features.

These are some of the best VPNs that offer high-end privacy and security while ensuring a reliable online experience in China.

Why do I need to Use a VPN in China?

Suppose you’re planning to visit or live in China. In that case, a VPN can be essential for accessing content and websites blocked by the Chinese government’s internet censorship policies, commonly referred to as the Great Firewall. Without a VPN, you may be unable to access popular social media platforms, search engines, news websites, and even some email providers.

Moreover, using a VPN can help protect your online privacy and security by encrypting your internet traffic and masking your IP address from prying eyes. Using a reliable VPN allows you to bypass internet censorship in China and ensure that your online activities remain private and secure.

Best VPNs for China An Overview

Finding the best VPNs for China is a hard task due to the country’s Great Firewall. With most VPNs not working within China finding reliable options is somewhat hard. However, we tried and tests a few VPNs and thee are the options we found working the best for China:

ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is considered one of the best VPNs for China due to its reliable and fast connection, dedicated servers in Hong Kong, and advanced obfuscation techniques that can bypass the Great Firewall. Additionally, ExpressVPN offers top-notch privacy and security features, including AES-256 encryption, a no-logs policy, and a kill switch that stops all internet traffic in case the VPN connection drops. The VPN also has split tunneling, which allows you to route some of your internet traffic through the VPN while allowing other traffic to access local networks. ExpressVPN is compatible with all major platforms and devices and offers 24/7 customer support to assist you with any issues you may encounter while using the VPN in China. Overall, ExpressVPN is a reliable and secure choice for accessing restricted content and protecting your online activities while in China.

NordVPN

NordVPN is considered one of the best VPNs for China due to its advanced security features and reliable performance. It offers obfuscated servers that can bypass the Great Firewall and provide access to restricted content in China. It also uses AES-256 encryption, an automatic kill switch, and offers DNS leak protection to ensure that your online activities and data remain private and secure. NordVPN has a strict no-logs policy, meaning it does not store any information about your online activities, providing an additional layer of privacy. Moreover, NordVPN offers a double VPN feature that encrypts your traffic twice, making it virtually impossible for anyone to intercept your online communications. With 5000+ servers in over 60 countries, NordVPN provides fast and stable connections that enable you to browse the internet freely and securely from China.

Surfshark

Surfshark VPN is a reliable and affordable VPN service that stands out as one of the best VPNs for China due to its advanced privacy and security features. It offers strong encryption, a no-logs policy, and a kill switch to protect your online privacy and security while in China. Additionally, Surfshark VPN has dedicated servers in China that use obfuscation techniques to bypass the Great Firewall and provide a stable and reliable connection. Surfshark VPN also offers unlimited simultaneous connections, making it a great choice for families or groups traveling to China. With Surfshark VPN, you can enjoy unrestricted access to the internet while in China, and its advanced privacy and security features ensure that your online activities are protected from prying eyes.

VyprVPN

VyprVPN is one of the best VPNs for China due to its advanced features and exceptional performance in bypassing the Great Firewall. The VPN offers an impressive selection of server locations, including dedicated servers in China, which ensures fast and reliable connectivity for users. When it comes to privacy and security, VyprVPN offers strong encryption, a no-logs policy, and various protocols, including its proprietary Chameleon protocol that scrambles OpenVPN metadata to bypass VPN blocking and throttling. Additionally, the VPN offers a NAT firewall and a kill switch, ensuring that user data remains protected and secure in case of connection drops or interruptions. With its user-friendly interface and excellent customer support, VyprVPN is a top choice for users looking for a VPN that offers reliable connectivity, strong privacy, and security features while in China.

Astrill VPN

Astrill VPN is considered one of the best VPNs for China due to its advanced security and privacy features, fast speeds, and reliable connectivity. It uses a range of advanced obfuscation techniques, such as OpenVPN over SSH, OpenVPN over SSL, and StealthVPN, to bypass the Great Firewall and provide users with unrestricted access to the internet in China. Astrill VPN also offers military-grade encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and a kill switch feature. Additionally, Astrill VPN has dedicated servers in China and offers a range of server locations worldwide, providing users with a fast and stable connection. Overall, Astrill VPN is a top choice for anyone looking to use a VPN in China and requires a reliable, secure, and fast VPN service.

StrongVPN

StrongVPN is a popular VPN service that is well-known for its strong privacy and security features, making it an excellent choice for users in China. This VPN uses military-grade encryption and a no-logs policy to protect your online activities and keep your data secure. It also offers advanced security features like a kill switch, which automatically disconnects your internet connection if the VPN connection drops, and DNS leak protection to prevent any information leaks. In addition, StrongVPN has dedicated servers in China, making it a reliable choice for users who want to access content that is blocked in the country. The service also offers excellent customer support and a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it out risk-free. Overall, StrongVPN is an excellent choice for users in China who want a VPN that prioritizes privacy and security while providing reliable access to content.

PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN is a reliable VPN service that works well in China due to its advanced security features and obfuscation techniques. With its strict no-logs policy, PrivateVPN doesn’t store any user activity logs, ensuring maximum privacy for users. Additionally, it uses 2048-bit encryption and supports multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, L2TP, and PPTP, which are known to be effective in bypassing the Great Firewall. PrivateVPN also has dedicated servers in China, which helps ensure a stable and fast connection. Overall, PrivateVPN is a great option for those looking for a secure and reliable VPN service to use in China.

Hotspot Shield

Hotspot Shield is a popular VPN service that has proven to be effective in bypassing China’s Great Firewall. It offers robust security features, including military-grade encryption, automatic kill switch, and DNS leak protection to ensure user privacy and security. Hotspot Shield also uses its own proprietary VPN protocol, called Catapult Hydra, which is known to be effective in bypassing internet censorship. It has servers in over 80 countries, including several in China, which helps ensure a fast and stable connection. Hotspot Shield also has a strict no-logs policy, which means that it doesn’t store any user data or online activity, ensuring complete privacy. Overall, Hotspot Shield is a reliable VPN service that offers great privacy and security features and a fast and stable connection in China.

CyberGhost VPN

CyberGhost VPN is a top-performing VPN service that offers exceptional privacy and security features for users in China. With its strict no-logs policy and 256-bit encryption, CyberGhost VPN ensures that users’ online activities and data remain safe and private. Additionally, the VPN service uses multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, L2TP, and IKEv2, to bypass China’s Great Firewall and provide users with fast and reliable connectivity. CyberGhost VPN has a large network of servers, with over 7,000 servers across 90 countries, including multiple servers in China, ensuring that users have access to a stable and fast connection. The VPN service also includes additional security features, such as an ad blocker, malware blocker, and automatic HTTPS redirection, which add extra layers of security and privacy for users. Overall, CyberGhost VPN is an excellent choice for users in China who want a fast and reliable VPN service that offers top-notch privacy and security features.

ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN is a highly secure and privacy-focused VPN service that is well-suited for use in China. Its advanced security features include AES-256 encryption, Perfect Forward Secrecy, and Secure Core servers, which provide an extra layer of protection against surveillance and hacking. The Secure Core servers route traffic through multiple locations, making it difficult for anyone to trace the user’s online activities. ProtonVPN also has a strict no-logs policy, which means that it does not collect any user data, ensuring maximum privacy for users. Additionally, ProtonVPN’s obfuscation technology can bypass China’s Great Firewall, making it an effective solution for accessing restricted content in the country. With a user-friendly interface and fast speeds, ProtonVPN is a solid choice for anyone looking for a secure and reliable VPN to use in China.

How to Choose a Reliable VPN for China?

Choosing a reliable VPN for China can be challenging due to the country’s strict internet censorship policies. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting a VPN for use in China:

1. VPN protocols: Look for a VPN that uses strong encryption protocols like OpenVPN or IKEv2/IPSec, which are more likely to bypass China’s Great Firewall.
2. Server locations: Choose a VPN with servers outside of China to ensure you can bypass the Great Firewall and access restricted content.
3. Speed and reliability: Select a VPN that offers fast and reliable connections, as slow speeds can be frustrating and reduce your online productivity.
4. Customer support: Look for a VPN provider with responsive customer support that can assist you if you encounter any issues while using the VPN in China.
5. Security features: Choose a VPN with advanced security features such as a kill switch and DNS leak protection to ensure your online activities remain private and secure.
6. No-logs policy: Look for a VPN provider with a strict no-logs policy, which means they do not store any information about your online activities, protecting your privacy.
7. User reviews: Read user reviews and ratings to understand how well a VPN works in China and what issues users have faced.

Considering these factors, you can choose a reliable VPN that works effectively in China and provides the privacy and security you need to access restricted content and protect your online activities.

How to Use a VPN in China?

Using a VPN in China differs from using it in other countries due to its internet censorship policies. Here are the steps to follow to use a VPN in China:

1. Download and install a reliable VPN before traveling to China, as some VPN websites may be blocked.
2. Connect to a server located outside of China before arriving in the country.
3. Once in China, connect to your VPN using the installed software or app.
4. If the VPN is not connecting or is slow, try switching to a different server location or protocol.
5. Use the internet as you usually would, and the VPN will encrypt your traffic and help you bypass the Great Firewall to access blocked content.
6. While VPNs are legal in China, using them for activities deemed illegal by the Chinese government, such as accessing banned content or engaging in political dissent, can have serious consequences.

Following these steps, you can use a VPN in China to access the content you need and protect your online privacy and security while complying with local laws and regulations.

Which Sites are Blocked in China?

China’s strict internet censorship policy, commonly known as the Great Firewall, blocks access to many websites and online services. Here are some of the most popular websites and services that are blocked in China:

1. Google and its related services, including Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Maps.
2. Social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and WhatsApp.
3. Video streaming services like YouTube, Netflix, and Vimeo.
4. Messaging apps such as Telegram, Line, and WhatsApp.
5. News websites, including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and Bloomberg.
6. Voice and video calling services like Skype and FaceTime.
7. Popular search engines like Bing and Yahoo.
8. Some cryptocurrency exchanges and blockchain-related websites.
9. Online tools for bypassing censorship, such as VPN websites.

It’s important to note that this list is not exhaustive, and the Chinese government regularly updates its list of banned websites and services. Additionally, websites not blocked may be subject to censorship and surveillance, so using a reliable VPN is essential to protect your online activities and access restricted content.

Are VPNs Legal in China?

VPNs are legal in China, but the government heavily regulates their use. In 2017, the Chinese government passed a law requiring VPN providers to obtain government approval before operating there. Since then, many VPN providers have been forced to shut down their services or modify their offerings to comply with government regulations. While VPNs are legal, they are subject to government oversight and censorship, and using a VPN to access illegal content or engage in criminal activity is strictly prohibited. Using VPNs responsibly and complying with local laws and regulations is crucial to avoid legal repercussions.

What is the Great Firewall of China

The Great Firewall of China is a sophisticated internet censorship system that controls and restricts access to online content in China. It is maintained by the Chinese government’s Internet censorship division, commonly known as the “Golden Shield Project.” The Great Firewall uses technical and regulatory measures to block access to foreign websites and services that the government deems politically sensitive, socially harmful, or otherwise inappropriate. This includes popular social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube, as well as news sites and search engines. The Great Firewall is constantly evolving, with new technologies and techniques being deployed to stay ahead of attempts to circumvent it. Despite this, many people in China use virtual private networks (VPNs) to bypass the Great Firewall and access blocked content.

How do VPNs Bypass the Great Firewall of China?

VPNs work by encrypting a user’s internet traffic and routing it through a secure tunnel to a VPN server in another country. VPNs can bypass the Great Firewall using advanced obfuscation techniques that hide VPN traffic within regular internet traffic. This makes it appear that the user’s internet traffic originates from the VPN server’s location rather than from within China. This makes it difficult for the Chinese government to detect and block VPN traffic, allowing users to access blocked content and services. While the Chinese government has made efforts to block VPNs and other circumvention tools, many VPN providers continue to operate in China and offer effective solutions for accessing restricted content. Some VPN providers also offer dedicated servers in China, which can help improve the speed and reliability of the VPN connection. However, it’s important to note that VPN use in China is subject to government oversight and regulation, and users should exercise caution when using VPNs to access sensitive content.

Why does China Block Most VPNs?

The Chinese government blocks most VPNs to control the flow of information and maintain social stability. The Chinese government has long had a strict internet censorship policy and views VPNs as a threat to its efforts to control the dissemination of information. Many Chinese citizens use VPNs to access blocked websites and social media platforms and bypass government surveillance and censorship. This makes VPNs a significant challenge to the government’s control over the internet. The Chinese government employs sophisticated techniques to block and monitor VPN traffic, including deep packet inspection, IP blocking, and “man-in-the-middle” attacks to counter this. In addition, the government requires VPN providers to obtain a license and register with the government, which allows the government to closely monitor VPN services and shut down providers that fail to comply with regulations. Overall, the Chinese government views VPNs as a threat to its control over the internet and seeks to restrict their use in the country.

Do Free VPNs Work in China?

Using a free VPN in China may not be the best option due to the country’s strict internet censorship policies. While some free VPNs may work in China, they often have limited functionality and may not offer the security and privacy needed to bypass the Great Firewall effectively. Additionally, free VPNs often have a limited number of servers, leading to slow connection speeds and poor performance. Furthermore, the Chinese government may actively block or restrict access to free VPNs. Paid VPNs generally offer better performance, more robust security, and more reliable access to blocked content. If you use a free VPN in China, choosing a reputable provider with a proven track record of working effectively in the country is essential.

Final Words

Finding a reliable VPN in China can be challenging due to the country’s strict internet censorship policies. However, a VPN is essential for accessing restricted content and protecting your online privacy and security in China. In this article, we have highlighted 10 of the best VPNs for China, each with its unique features and strengths.

By considering the factors we’ve outlined, such as VPN protocols, server locations, speed and reliability, customer support, security features, no-logs policy, and user reviews, you can choose a VPN that meets your needs and provides you with the privacy and security you need to access restricted content and protect your online activities while in China. Remember to use the VPN responsibly and in compliance with local laws and regulations, and stay safe while enjoying the internet in China.

Which VPN works best for China?

It's difficult to say which VPN works best for China as the situation can change quickly. However, some of the most reliable VPNs for China include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, and VyprVPN.

What is the best free VPN for China?

Free VPNs in China are generally not recommended due to their limited functionality and potential security risks. However, some of China's most popular free VPNs include Windscribe and ProtonVPN. It's important to note that free VPNs may not work effectively in China and may even be blocked by the government, so it's best to use a reliable paid VPN for optimal performance and security.

Which VPN is most stable in China?

While the stability of VPNs in China can vary due to the constantly evolving internet censorship policies, some of the most stable VPNs for China include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, and VyprVPN. These VPNs have dedicated servers in China and use advanced obfuscation techniques to bypass the Great Firewall and provide a stable and reliable connection.

Does PIA VPN work in China?

PIA VPN (Private Internet Access) is known to work in China, but its performance can be inconsistent due to the country's strict Internet censorship policies. Some users report success using PIA VPN in China, while others may experience connectivity issues or slow speeds. Using a VPN with dedicated servers in China and advanced obfuscation techniques is recommended for optimal performance in the country.