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Traveling to or living in China? You’ll need a reliable VPN to access Google, Gmail, WhatsApp, Instagram, and other blocked websites. But not just any VPN will work—China’s Great Firewall blocks most general-purpose VPN services.
This guide compares the top VPNs that actually work in China, helping you choose the right one for your needs and budget.
See also: Essential Apps for China Travel: Your Complete Digital Guide (2025)
Why You Need a Special VPN for China
China’s internet censorship system, known as the Great Firewall (GFW), actively blocks most VPN services. To bypass these restrictions, you need a VPN with advanced obfuscation or stealth technology that disguises your VPN traffic as regular internet activity.
Critical reminder: Download and set up your VPN before arriving in China. VPN websites are blocked within the country, making installation impossible once you’re there.
The 4 Best VPNs for China in 2025
1. NordVPN – Best Overall VPN for China
NordVPN offers the ideal balance of reliability, speed, and value for most China travelers and residents.
Why NordVPN Stands Out:
- Obfuscated Servers: Proprietary technology specifically designed to bypass the Great Firewall consistently
- Blazing Fast Speeds: Industry-leading performance using the NordLynx protocol (based on WireGuard), especially important for long-distance connections from China
- Strong Security Features: Based in privacy-friendly Panama with a strict no-logs policy, plus advanced options like Double VPN and Meshnet
- Excellent Value: Highly competitive pricing on long-term subscription plans
- Massive Server Network: 126+ countries with thousands of servers
Potential Drawbacks:
- Manual setup required to enable obfuscated servers (though it’s straightforward)
- Slightly fewer server countries than ExpressVPN
- Limited to 10 simultaneous device connections
Best For: Most users seeking reliable GFW bypass with fast speeds and good value.
Price Range: Mid-range to high-value, especially on annual plans
2. ExpressVPN – Best for Simplicity and Travel
ExpressVPN is the premium choice for users who want effortless setup and guaranteed reliability.
Why ExpressVPN Stands Out:
- Exceptionally Easy to Use: Intuitive apps across all major platforms with consistent, simple interface
- Proven China Reliability: Regularly updated proprietary stealth technology that automatically bypasses the Great Firewall
- Broad Server Coverage: 105 countries with excellent options for nearby Asian connections
- Privacy Excellence: Based in the British Virgin Islands with a strict, independently audited no-logs policy
- Automatic Stealth: No need to toggle settings—stealth features work automatically
Potential Drawbacks:
- Highest price point among premium VPNs
- No specific obfuscation toggle, which can make troubleshooting less transparent
- Limited to 8 simultaneous device connections
Best For: Travelers and short-term visitors who prioritize ease of use and reliability over price, plus those who want “set it and forget it” functionality.
Price Range: Premium/Most expensive option
3. Surfshark – Best Budget VPN for China
Surfshark delivers impressive Great Firewall bypass capabilities at the most affordable price point.
Why Surfshark Stands Out:
- Unbeatable Value: Most budget-friendly option among top-tier VPNs, especially on long-term plans
- Unlimited Connections: Connect unlimited devices simultaneously—perfect for families or groups
- NoBorders Mode: Dedicated obfuscation feature that automatically activates when it detects network restrictions
- Fast Performance: Uses WireGuard protocol for excellent connection speeds
- Strong Current Performance: Currently very effective at bypassing the GFW
Potential Drawbacks:
- Shorter track record in China compared to ExpressVPN and Astrill
- Smaller server network with 3,200+ servers
- Based in the Netherlands (part of 9 Eyes Alliance), though it maintains an audited no-logs policy
Best For: Budget-conscious travelers, families needing multiple connections, and users who want excellent value without sacrificing performance.
Price Range: Budget/Best overall value
4. Astrill VPN – Best for Expats and Power Users
Astrill VPN is the go-to choice for long-term China residents who need maximum uptime and customization.
Why Astrill VPN Stands Out:
- Superior Stealth Technology: Highly effective StealthVPN and OpenWeb protocols, making it a favorite among China expats
- Exceptional Uptime: Known for maintaining connections even during sensitive political events when other VPNs struggle
- Advanced Customization: Granular control options for power users who need specific configurations
- Proven Long-Term Reliability: Established reputation among China’s foreign resident community
Potential Drawbacks:
- Very expensive compared to all competitors
- Weaker streaming service unblocking (struggles with Netflix and Amazon Prime Video)
- Dated, less intuitive interface compared to NordVPN or ExpressVPN
- Fewer simultaneous connections (typically 5 devices)
Best For: Long-term expats, business users, and power users who require the highest possible uptime and are willing to pay premium prices.
Price Range: Very high/Most expensive
See also: Gemini vs ChatGPT: The Real-Life Travel Planning Showdown (2025 Comparison)
Complete VPN Comparison Table
| Feature | NordVPN | ExpressVPN | Surfshark | Astrill VPN |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GFW Bypass Reliability | Excellent (Obfuscated Servers) | Excellent (Automatic Stealth) | Very Good (NoBorders Mode) | Excellent (StealthVPN) |
| Speed Performance | Fastest (NordLynx) | Very Fast (Lightway) | Very Fast (WireGuard) | Stable/Good |
| Pricing | Mid-Range/High-Value | Premium/Most Expensive | Budget/Best Value | Very High/Most Expensive |
| Device Connections | 10 Devices | 8 Devices | Unlimited | 5 Devices |
| Server Countries | 126+ | 105 | 100 | 55+ |
| Privacy Jurisdiction | Panama | British Virgin Islands | Netherlands | Seychelles |
| Special China Protocol | Obfuscated Servers | Automatic Stealth | NoBorders Mode | StealthVPN/OpenWeb |
| Streaming Quality | Excellent | Excellent | Very Good | Fair |
Which VPN Should You Choose?
Your ideal VPN depends on your specific priorities:
Choose NordVPN if you want:
✅ The best overall balance of performance, reliability, and value
✅ Industry-leading speeds for streaming and work
✅ Strong security with advanced features
✅ Good value on long-term plans
Choose ExpressVPN if you want:
✅ The simplest, most user-friendly experience
✅ Guaranteed reliability for short trips
✅ Automatic stealth without manual configuration
✅ Premium service worth the higher price
Choose Surfshark if you want:
✅ Maximum value on a tight budget
✅ Unlimited device connections for family/group
✅ Solid GFW performance without premium pricing
✅ Strong features at affordable rates
Choose Astrill VPN if you want:
✅ Maximum uptime during sensitive periods
✅ Advanced customization options
✅ Proven long-term expat reliability
✅ Willing to pay premium for specialized service
Essential VPN Setup Tips for China
Before You Travel:
- Download and install your chosen VPN before departure
- Set up your account and test the connection
- Download backup VPNs as alternatives (have 2-3 options)
- Save customer support contacts outside of email (they may be blocked)
- Familiarize yourself with obfuscation settings if required
Using Your VPN in China:
- Keep your VPN app updated to the latest version
- Enable obfuscation/stealth mode if available
- Try different server locations if one doesn’t work (nearby Asian countries often work best)
- Be patient during connection attempts—it may take 10-30 seconds
- Have backup VPN apps ready in case your primary option fails
Pro Tip: VPN performance can vary during politically sensitive periods. Having multiple VPN subscriptions ensures you’ll always have access.
See also: Comparing 6 Free VPN Apps for iOS Devices: A Detailed Analysis
FAQs
Can I download a VPN after arriving in China?
No. VPN websites and app stores are blocked in China. You must download and set up your VPN before arrival.
Are VPNs legal in China?
VPNs exist in a gray area. Using a VPN for personal access to blocked websites is common and generally tolerated for foreigners, though technically unauthorized VPNs are not approved by the government.
Will free VPNs work in China?
Free VPNs rarely work in China and often compromise your security and privacy. The Great Firewall specifically targets and blocks free VPN services.
Which servers should I connect to from China?
Nearby locations like Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, and Taiwan typically offer the fastest speeds. US and European servers work but may be slower.
How much does a good China VPN cost?
Expect to pay $3-12 per month depending on the service and subscription length. Annual plans offer the best value.
Final Recommendation
For most travelers and new China residents, NordVPN offers the best combination of reliable Great Firewall bypass, fast speeds, and reasonable pricing. Its obfuscated servers are specifically designed for censorship circumvention, and the NordLynx protocol ensures you won’t sacrifice speed for security.
If budget isn’t a concern and you want the simplest possible experience, ExpressVPN is worth the premium price. For budget-conscious users or families needing multiple connections, Surfshark provides exceptional value.
Long-term expats and business users who require maximum uptime should consider Astrill VPN despite its higher cost.
Remember: Download and set up your chosen VPN before boarding your flight to China. Having reliable internet access can transform your China experience from frustrating to seamless.
Stay connected, stay informed, and enjoy unrestricted internet access during your time in China.
See also: Best AI Travel Assistants in 2025: Complete Comparison Guide
