China is well known for its strict internet censorship, commonly referred to as the “Great Firewall.” Many popular websites and services such as Google, Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter are blocked. To bypass these restrictions, expatriates, travelers, and even locals rely on Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). However, not all VPNs work reliably in China due to government crackdowns on VPN services. In this guide, we’ll cover the best VPNs for China in 2024, considering factors like security, speed, and accessibility.
Table of Contents
What to Look for in a VPN for China
When choosing a VPN to use in China, you need to consider the following factors:
- Ability to Bypass the Great Firewall – Not all VPNs can bypass China’s censorship.
- Strong Encryption and Security – VPNs should have AES-256 encryption and advanced protocols.
- Fast Connection Speeds – High-speed servers ensure smooth browsing and streaming.
- No-Logs Policy – Protects your privacy by not storing browsing data.
- Obfuscation Technology – Helps VPN traffic appear as regular web traffic, avoiding detection.
- Reliable Customer Support – 24/7 support via live chat or email is beneficial.
- Compatibility – Should work on Windows, macOS, and other platforms.
Top VPNs for China in 2024
Here are the best VPNs that still work effectively in China:
1. ExpressVPN – Best Overall VPN for China
Key Features:
- Stealth servers that bypass the Great Firewall
- AES-256-bit encryption
- No-logs policy
- Superfast speeds for streaming
- 30-day money-back guarantee
ExpressVPN is one of the most reliable VPNs for China, consistently bypassing government restrictions. It offers a vast server network with locations worldwide, making it an excellent choice for streaming, browsing, and secure communication.
2. NordVPN – Best for Security and Privacy
Key Features:
- Double VPN encryption for extra security
- Obfuscated servers to bypass censorship
- No-logs policy
- CyberSec feature to block ads and malware
- 30-day money-back guarantee
NordVPN is known for its strong security features, including its Double VPN technology, which routes traffic through two servers for added encryption. It has specialized obfuscated servers designed to work in China.
3. Surfshark – Best Budget-Friendly VPN
Key Features:
- Unlimited device connections
- AES-256-bit encryption
- Camouflage Mode to disguise VPN traffic
- Fast and stable speeds
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Surfshark is an affordable yet powerful VPN that works well in China. It allows unlimited simultaneous connections, making it a great choice for families or groups of travelers.
4. Astrill VPN – Best for Reliability
Key Features:
- VIP servers optimized for China
- Smart Mode to bypass VPN blocks
- Military-grade encryption
- Fast speeds for gaming and streaming
- No-logs policy
Astrill VPN has been one of the top choices for expats in China for years. While it is slightly more expensive, its reliability in bypassing Chinese restrictions makes it worth the investment.
5. VyprVPN – Best for Business Users
Key Features:
- Chameleon protocol to bypass VPN blocks
- No third-party servers (fully self-owned infrastructure)
- High-speed servers worldwide
- No-logs policy
- 30-day money-back guarantee
VyprVPN’s proprietary Chameleon protocol is designed to get around VPN restrictions, making it one of the best choices for users in China who need consistent access to international websites.
How to Use a VPN in China
- Download and Install Before Entering China – Many VPN websites are blocked in China, so download your VPN before arrival.
- Enable Obfuscation Mode – Some VPNs offer special settings to disguise VPN traffic.
- Connect to a Nearby Server – Servers in Hong Kong, Japan, and Singapore often provide the best speeds.
- Test Different Protocols – OpenVPN, WireGuard, or proprietary protocols may work better depending on the situation.
- Stay Updated – VPN providers frequently update their apps to stay ahead of China’s firewall updates.
Are Free VPNs a Good Option for China?
Free VPNs are generally not recommended for China because:
- They are often blocked by the Great Firewall.
- They lack strong encryption and may expose user data.
- Free VPNs have slow speeds and data caps.
- Some free VPNs sell user data to third parties.
For secure and reliable access, a paid VPN service with proven performance in China is the best choice.
FAQs About VPNs in China
1. Is using a VPN legal in China? While China has strict VPN regulations, using a VPN is not illegal for personal use. However, the government blocks unauthorized VPNs.
2. Which VPN works best in China? ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Astrill VPN are the most reliable options for China.
3. Can I use a VPN on my phone in China? Yes, you can use a VPN on your phone, but make sure to install it before entering China.
4. What should I do if my VPN stops working? Try switching servers, changing protocols, or contacting customer support for troubleshooting.
Conclusion
Accessing the open internet in China requires a strong and reliable VPN. ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark are among the top choices, offering excellent security, speed, and bypassing capabilities. Before traveling to China, make sure to install and test your VPN to ensure seamless connectivity. Stay informed and use a trusted VPN to navigate the Great Firewall with ease.