Best VPNs for China
January 20, 2025
With the increasing need for internet privacy and access, VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) have become the go-to solution for protecting personal information and bypassing geographical restrictions.
Whether it's for secure browsing, accessing global streaming content, or maintaining normal internet access in restricted network environments, choosing a quality VPN is crucial.
This article focuses on VPN recommendations best suited for use in China, covering everything from testing criteria and recommended options to pros and cons analysis and frequently asked questions.
Best VPNs for China List
We've selected these 9 outstanding VPNs from numerous services:
- LetsVPN: Known for high-speed connections and stability, ideal for streaming in China.
- ShanLianVPN: Excellent at bypassing network restrictions, suitable for use in China.
- PrivadoVPN: Free plan friendly, ideal for light users.
- NordVPN: Offers double encryption and obfuscated servers, focuses on privacy protection.
- ExpressVPN: Fastest globally, suitable for streaming and gaming.
- IPVanish: Ideal for Fire TV Stick users, fast connection speeds.
- AdguardVPN: Focuses on privacy protection, suitable for blocking ads and malware.
- Surfshark: Provides high-quality servers and security options, suitable for advanced users.
- Veepn: Good value for money, though some features are limited.
How We Test
To ensure our recommended VPN services meet various user needs, we employ a comprehensive and rigorous testing methodology.
First, we evaluate each VPN's connection speed through actual download and upload file tests, measuring performance under different network conditions.
Second, we test VPN stability, particularly checking for disconnections or speed drops during peak hours.
Simultaneously, we verify each VPN's privacy protection features, including encryption strength, no-logs policy implementation, and DNS leak protection.
Additionally, to check global accessibility, we attempt to access restricted content from different regions, such as streaming platforms and blocked websites.
Finally, for use in China specifically, we conduct on-site testing to confirm their ability to bypass the Great Firewall.
Through these tests, we ensure that each recommended VPN meets high standards for performance and security.
LetsVPN
LetsVPN is a VPN service known for its high speed and stability, particularly suitable for users who need frequent access to overseas resources or seek ultimate connection speeds.
Whether it's for watching HD videos, playing online games, or protecting privacy on public Wi-Fi, LetsVPN performs excellently.
Here are its main advantages, disadvantages, and feature overview:
Pros
- Fast network speeds suitable for general user needs, capable of real-time data transmission like HD video streaming and online gaming
- High stability, rarely experiences disconnection issues even during peak hours
- No ads, speed limits, or data logging
- High-speed lines at affordable prices
- Supports multiple platforms (Windows, iOS, Android, Mac), perfect for families or multi-device users
Cons
- Limited support for free accounts
- Fewer simultaneous device connections allowed
You can enter invitation code: 75430706 after downloading to get a 3-day free membership.
Overall, LetsVPN is a VPN service renowned for its fast stability and high security, particularly suitable for users requiring high-performance connections, such as streaming enthusiasts and business users.
LetsVPN's AES-256 encryption technology and global server network ensure user privacy and access speed, and its excellent performance in restricted areas has also received high praise.
Although the price is relatively high, its efficient and reliable performance makes it a worthwhile investment.
ShanLianVPN
ShanLianVPN is a VPN service known for its ability to bypass network blockades and cross-regional access capabilities.
It's particularly suitable for use in countries with strict restrictions (such as China), effectively bypassing firewalls to access blocked websites and services.
For example, users can easily access foreign social media, streaming platforms (like Netflix, YouTube) and international news sites.
Pros
- Known for excellent connection speeds, suitable for users needing quick IP switching
- Supports multiple device connections simultaneously
- Clean and user-friendly interface, easy for beginners to get started
- High-speed lines at affordable prices
- Provides rich server selection, covering multiple countries and regions
Cons
- Some features require additional payment, a limitation for free users
- Doesn't support advanced encryption protocols or extra privacy features
You can enter invitation code: 09371003 after downloading to get a 3-day free membership.
ShanLianVPN has carved out its place in the market with its powerful penetration capabilities and operational convenience, designed specifically for users who need to bypass strict network restrictions.
Whether in China or other high-censorship countries, it can help users easily access restricted websites.
PrivadoVPN
PrivadoVPN is a privacy-focused VPN service, particularly suitable for users who prioritize data security and anonymity. Here are its main advantages and disadvantages:
Pros
- 10GB of free data monthly
- Uses AES-256 encryption technology to ensure secure data transmission
- Strict no-logs policy, eliminating the possibility of data leaks
- Servers distributed globally, allowing users to choose the most suitable server
Cons
- While offering a free basic plan, advanced features require payment, such as more data and faster speeds
- Connection speeds may be slightly slower, especially during high-traffic periods
PrivadoVPN has gained popularity among many users for its economical plans and reliable performance. Its free 10GB data plan, in particular, provides convenience for budget-conscious users who value privacy.
Although speeds may decrease slightly during peak hours, it's a worthwhile tool for light users and those new to VPNs.
NordVPN (Occasionally Works)
NordVPN is one of the globally renowned VPN services, famous for its extensive server network and robust security features.
With a vast global server distribution, it not only supports users in unlocking streaming content but also provides double VPN encryption, ensuring data transmission security. Its no-logs policy is highly trusted, making it particularly suitable for users with high privacy requirements.
Pros
- Powerful double encryption and obfuscated server functionality
- Extensive server network covering 59 countries
- Built-in ad blocking feature enhances user experience
Cons
- Some servers show noticeable speed drops during peak hours
- Advanced features might appear complex for beginners
NordVPN stands out in the VPN market for its excellent privacy protection and feature diversity.
Its double encryption feature provides additional security for data protection, while obfuscated servers can bypass restrictions in highly censored environments.
Although it only works occasionally in China, its comprehensiveness and strong security features still make it a good choice for privacy-conscious users.
AdguardVPN (Occasionally Works)
AdguardVPN is a VPN service developed by AdGuard company, known for its focus on privacy and ad-blocking features.
AdGuard itself is a company focused on ad blocking and online privacy protection, and its VPN product continues this mission by providing reliable data encryption and privacy protection.
Pros
- Powerful ad-blocking features enhance browsing experience
- Excellent privacy protection features
- Supports multiple device connections simultaneously
Cons
- Limited server coverage
- Average performance in high-speed connection scenarios
AdguardVPN's strength lies in its high focus on user privacy, implementing a strict no-logs policy to ensure user browsing data isn't recorded, while its ad-blocking feature excels at blocking pop-up ads, malware, and trackers. However, compared to mainstream VPN services, AdguardVPN has a smaller server coverage with limited global nodes, and its connection success rate in China is extremely low, unable to bypass the firewall, making it impractical for users needing to overcome censorship.
ExpressVPN (Occasionally Works)
ExpressVPN is renowned for its exceptional speed, considered one of the fastest VPNs on the market. Whether streaming shows, downloading large files, or gaming online, it provides users with a smooth experience.
ExpressVPN is compatible with multiple devices, and its operation is simple and user-friendly, making it easy for VPN newcomers to master quickly.
Pros
- Fastest speeds globally, ideal for streaming and gaming users
- Unlocks over 95% of streaming platforms
- Privacy protection verified by independent audits, reliable no-logs policy
Cons
- Price above market average
- Lacks advanced features like multi-hop connections
ExpressVPN is one of the most popular VPNs globally, becoming many users' first choice due to its exceptional speed and privacy protection capabilities. Whether watching HD videos, playing online games, or bypassing geographical restrictions, it performs excellently.
Despite its higher price, its efficient performance and reliable privacy protection make it worth the investment.
IPvanish (Occasionally Works)
IPVanish is a VPN service provider based in the United States, known for providing high-speed connections, strict no-logs policy, and a global server network.
IPVanish's main goals are to provide online privacy protection, data encryption, and the ability to bypass geographical restrictions.
Pros
- Optimized support for Fire TV Stick users
- Provides unlimited bandwidth and quality connections
- Intuitive interface, easy to operate
Cons
- Lacks advanced privacy features
- Unstable for use in China
IPVanish is a VPN designed for specific device users, especially Fire TV Stick users.
Its unlimited bandwidth and stable connections ensure smooth streaming experiences, while its simple and user-friendly interface makes it easy for newcomers to get started.
Although it lacks some advanced features, its device optimization characteristics make up for these shortcomings.
Surfshark (Occasionally Works)
Surfshark is a VPN service developed by the same company as NordVPN, known for its high focus on security and privacy. It's a niche but professional VPN product, particularly suitable for technically-inclined users.
It employs 256-bit AES encryption technology and offers double VPN options, meeting the needs of users with extremely high data security requirements.
Pros
- Advanced user-friendly privacy and security features
- Provides double encryption functionality for data security
- High server stability
Cons
- Higher price point
- Beginners may need time to adapt to advanced features
Surfshark focuses on high-quality servers, with stable speeds and low latency, making it very suitable for streaming and online gaming.
However, despite having some ability to bypass firewalls, its performance isn't stable enough, requiring users to frequently switch nodes.
Veepn (Occasionally Works)
Veepn is an emerging VPN service provider characterized by low cost and multi-functionality, dedicated to providing comprehensive online privacy protection solutions. It has over 2,500 servers covering more than 50 countries worldwide, offering diverse connection options while supporting up to 10 devices connected simultaneously, making it ideal for family users or those needing to protect multiple devices.
Pros
- Good value for money, affordable pricing
- Offers various customization features
- Supports streaming unblocking and P2P downloads for beginners
Cons
- Average server performance during high traffic periods
- Slower speeds on some servers for advanced features
- Customer support response time could be faster
During high-load periods, some servers show poor connection performance, potentially experiencing disconnections or speed fluctuations.
Additionally, while Veepn claims to have a no-logs policy, its privacy policy lacks clear details, which might raise concerns about its privacy protection capabilities among users.
Best VPNs for China Comparison and Analysis
Comprehensive Comparison of Price, Performance, and Compatibility
VPN Name | Price | Local Download Speed | Logging Policy | Server Distribution | Compatibility |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
LetsVPN | $2.99/mo | 85Mbps | Strict no-logs | 50+ countries, 1000+ servers | Windows, macOS, iOS, Android |
ShanLianVPN | $3.50/mo | 75Mbps | No usage logs | 40+ countries, 800+ servers | Windows, iOS, Android |
PrivadoVPN | $4.99/mo | 80Mbps | Strict no-logs | 60+ countries, 100+ servers | Windows, macOS, iOS, Android |
Technical Analysis, Stability, and Value for Money
VPN Name | Bypass Capability | Stability | Value for Money | Analysis Conclusion |
---|---|---|---|---|
LetsVPN | Strong obfuscation tech, bypasses GFW | Stable, fast speeds, low latency | Good value for long-term users | Top choice for China users, excellent for streaming and daily browsing |
ShanLianVPN | Smart routing selection, good bypass ability | Generally stable, peak hour fluctuations | Reasonable price, multi-device support | Good value, suitable for families or individuals needing multi-device use |
PrivadoVPN | Supports OpenVPN and IKEv2, decent bypass | Stable but limited servers | Free version available, premium plans pricey | While technically capable, limited servers may not suit power users |
NordVPN | Obfuscated servers but unstable in China | Occasional access, low stability | Premium pricing, feature-rich | Global reputation but limited effectiveness in China |
ExpressVPN | Strong bypass tech but affected by blocks | Occasional access, declining success rate | Higher price point, multi-platform | Former top choice, performance affected by increased GFW restrictions |
IPVanish | No China-specific optimizations | Unstable in China | Mid-range price, limited China utility | Not suitable for use in China |
AdguardVPN | Privacy-focused, not optimized for China | Unstable in China | Fair price but limited China utility | Better for privacy than bypassing restrictions |
Surfshark | Limited bypass capabilities | Unstable in China | Premium pricing, limited features | Not suitable for China environment |
Veepn | Weak technical capabilities | Unstable in China | Budget-friendly but impractical | Limited practical value for China users |
VPNs to Avoid
When choosing a VPN, users need to be especially cautious. Some VPNs appear cheap or free but actually pose privacy risks, instability, and other potential dangers.
1. SkyVPN - Phishing VPN
- Frequently exposed for data leaks, serious privacy vulnerabilities
- Poor connection speeds and user experience
- Excessive ads, difficult for free users to use smoothly
Company: Hangzhou Tengzhan Technology
2. XVPN
- Frequent disconnections, especially during peak hours
- Lacks clear privacy policy, may collect user data for commercial purposes
- Limited server coverage, unavailable in many countries
3. PandaVPN - Fraudulent VPN
- Questionable security, reports of sensitive data accessed by third parties
- Poor stability, prone to crashes on certain systems
- Slow technical support response, poor user experience
In conclusion, when selecting a VPN, users should consider their needs, budget, and the VPN's features and reputation to choose a secure, stable service that best suits their requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to test if a VPN is stable?
Use speed testing tools to measure VPN connection speed and observe for disconnections over extended periods.
Are VPNs worth purchasing?
If you need privacy protection, want to bypass geographical restrictions, or ensure security on public Wi-Fi, VPNs are definitely worth the investment.
Are free VPNs reliable?
Most free VPNs limit features and may pose privacy risks, so we don't recommend using free VPNs.
What happens to my device after uninstalling a VPN?
Uninstalling a VPN won't affect normal device operation, but you may need to manually restore network settings.
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