Which VPN Works Well in China?

Imagine landing in Beijing for an important business trip or perhaps to experience the vibrant culture. You open your laptop to send an urgent email, only to realize you can’t access Gmail, Google Docs, or even your social media accounts. Welcome to the world of China’s Great Firewall, a sophisticated internet censorship system that blocks access to many Western websites and services. But there's a way around it – VPNs (Virtual Private Networks). However, not every VPN works smoothly in China. This brings us to the burning question: which VPN works best in China in 2024?

Before We Dive In:
It’s essential to note that China has been ramping up its efforts to block VPNs, so the landscape is ever-changing. What worked last year might not work now. Choosing a VPN that consistently stays ahead of these blocks is crucial. Here’s what you need to know before committing to a VPN service for your trip to or stay in China.

NordVPN: The Reliable Performer

When it comes to bypassing the Great Firewall, NordVPN has long been a favorite. One of its standout features is its obfuscated servers, designed specifically to mask the fact that you’re using a VPN. In countries like China, this feature becomes invaluable as it prevents authorities from detecting VPN traffic. NordVPN offers over 5,000 servers worldwide, with some servers optimized for extra security.

• Pros:

  • Obfuscated servers to bypass VPN detection.
  • Double VPN feature that provides an additional layer of encryption.
  • Fast speeds even when connected to distant servers in the US or Europe.
  • 30-day money-back guarantee.

• Cons:

  • Slightly more expensive than some competitors.
  • Mobile apps sometimes face connection issues in China.

NordVPN's consistent ability to work in China, coupled with its military-grade encryption, makes it a go-to choice for those who want a seamless experience without frequent drops in service.

ExpressVPN: Speed Meets Reliability

ExpressVPN is another giant in the VPN world, especially when it comes to China. Known for its lightning-fast speeds and stability, ExpressVPN continues to offer a reliable service even under China’s heavy restrictions. The company invests heavily in staying ahead of censorship efforts, frequently updating its technology to ensure it can still operate within China.

• Pros:

  • Extremely fast speeds make it ideal for streaming and video calls.
  • User-friendly interface for both desktop and mobile applications.
  • 24/7 customer service and live chat support.
  • TrustedServer technology, ensuring no data is stored on the servers.

• Cons:

  • Higher cost compared to some competitors.
  • Occasionally, connections to certain servers might require troubleshooting.

ExpressVPN’s reputation as one of the fastest VPNs makes it ideal for streaming services like Netflix or engaging in real-time video calls via platforms like Zoom or Skype, both of which are blocked in China without a VPN.

Surfshark: Budget-Friendly with a Punch

For those looking for an affordable option without compromising quality, Surfshark is a top contender. It offers unlimited device connections on a single subscription, making it a great option for families or those traveling with multiple devices. Like NordVPN, Surfshark uses obfuscation technology to bypass China’s VPN blocks.

• Pros:

  • Affordable pricing.
  • Unlimited devices on one account.
  • Good security features, including MultiHop and CleanWeb for ad-blocking.
  • Works well with streaming services like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu.

• Cons:

  • Not as fast as ExpressVPN or NordVPN.
  • Fewer servers compared to its competitors.

For anyone on a budget but still in need of a reliable service, Surfshark strikes the perfect balance between cost and performance, especially for casual users who aren’t as concerned about having blazing-fast speeds for streaming.

VyprVPN: The Fighter Against VPN Blocks

Another strong contender for use in China is VyprVPN. What sets VyprVPN apart is its proprietary Chameleon protocol, which scrambles VPN traffic to avoid detection by government firewalls. This makes it particularly effective in countries like China where VPN usage is heavily restricted.

• Pros:
  • The Chameleon protocol helps bypass VPN blocks.
  • No third-party servers—VyprVPN owns and manages all its servers.
  • Offers a free trial, which is rare among VPN providers.
• Cons:
  • Fewer server locations compared to competitors.
  • Slower speeds during peak times.

VyprVPN is particularly good for those who need anonymity and reliable security. If you’re doing anything sensitive on the internet or traveling in areas where VPN blocks are updated frequently, the Chameleon protocol is invaluable.

Astrill VPN: The Specialist

If you ask expatriates living in China which VPN they rely on, Astrill VPN is a name that frequently pops up. It’s not as well-known globally as NordVPN or ExpressVPN, but its China-optimized servers and stealth technology make it one of the best choices for users behind the Great Firewall.

• Pros:
  • Specialized servers for China.
  • Stealth VPN technology.
  • Reliable and consistent performance in China.
• Cons:
  • Higher cost.
  • Interface can be tricky for beginners.

Astrill VPN’s ability to work smoothly even during major political events in China when internet restrictions are at their highest makes it a favorite among long-term residents and those who need a VPN for business purposes.

Conclusion:

When it comes to choosing the best VPN for China, the most important factor is reliability. You don’t want to be disconnected while trying to access important information or conduct a video conference. Whether you prioritize speed, price, or security, each of the VPNs mentioned above offers unique features that cater to different needs.

For most people, NordVPN and ExpressVPN stand out as the most reliable options, with NordVPN offering better security and ExpressVPN delivering faster speeds. If you’re on a budget, Surfshark is an excellent choice, and for those who need an extra layer of stealth, VyprVPN and Astrill VPN are strong contenders.

Ultimately, the best VPN for you will depend on your specific requirements and how long you’ll be staying in China. But one thing’s for sure: having a VPN is essential if you want to stay connected with the outside world during your time behind the Great Firewall.