Best VPN in China 2025: Top 5 Tested and Trusted Options

If you have ever tried to access the internet in China, you already know how limiting it can feel. Popular platforms like Google, Facebook, and WhatsApp are blocked, leaving residents and visitors with restricted access.

While many turn to VPNs as a solution, most of them fail to get past the Great Firewall. To uncover what actually works, 28 VPNs were tested in Beijing across two ISPs.

The results revealed only a handful stood strong. In this article, you will find the top 5 VPNs for China that proved both reliable and effective.

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Key Takeaways

1. ExpressVPN and NordVPN consistently worked across multiple ISPs and unlocked all major sites.

2. Surfshark offers great value with unlimited device connections and stable performance.

3. Preparation is key: download and set up your VPN before entering China.

What Is a VPN and Why Do You Need It in China?

A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and the internet. This makes your traffic harder to monitor and allows you to access blocked websites. In most countries, VPNs are useful for privacy, but in China, they are practically essential.

China has one of the strictest internet censorship systems in the world, often referred to as the Great Firewall.

It blocks major international sites and heavily restricts apps and services. Without a VPN, even basic communication tools like WhatsApp and Telegram are inaccessible.

Reports from recent tests in China show that not all VPNs work equally well. Out of 28 VPNs examined, only 11 worked consistently across both China Unicom and Ultra Kings Limited. Even then, some were blocked on specific days, highlighting how unpredictable the system can be.

When choosing a VPN in China, speed and reliability are crucial. A VPN that connects one day may fail the next, especially during political events.

For this reason, many experts suggest having more than one VPN installed before traveling. Once inside China, downloading VPN apps can be difficult since most provider websites are blocked locally.

In short, for anyone seeking uncensored access to the global internet in China, a VPN is not just useful but necessary.

Read Also: 7 Best VPNs for Crypto Users: Solutions for Crypto Websites Restricted in Your Country

Top 5 VPN in China for 2025

After testing, here are the top VPNs that performed best in speed, reliability, and accessibility. These services consistently bypassed restrictions on major platforms and provided stable connections across different ISPs.

Each option also balances security and ease of use, making them suitable for both short-term travelers and long-term residents in China.

1. ExpressVPN

• Worked flawlessly on both ISPs and unlocked all 19 test websites.

• Strong encryption, a kill switch, and servers in 105+ countries.

• Download speeds close to benchmarks, ensuring smooth browsing.

2. NordVPN

• Improved significantly since earlier tests, now consistently bypassing restrictions.

• Uses obfuscated servers and NordLynx protocol for reliable speed.

• Offers advanced features like Double VPN and Onion over VPN.

3. ProtonVPN

• Accessed almost all tested sites, with stable connections on both ISPs.

• Strong focus on privacy with Swiss-based operations and no-logs policy.

• Free plan available, but paid plans unlock better speed and global coverage.

4. Surfshark

• Known for unlimited device connections under one subscription.

• NoBorders mode and camouflage features help bypass the Firewall.

• Competitive pricing with reliable speed across both networks.

5. Mullvad

• Offers complete anonymity without requiring an email for signup.

• Strong privacy focus with AES-256 encryption and WireGuard support.

• Flat €5 monthly fee makes it simple and predictable.

Each of these VPNs has strengths, but ExpressVPN and NordVPN remain the most consistent. Surfshark stands out for affordability and unlimited connections, while ProtonVPN and Mullvad appeal to users focused on privacy.

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How to Choose the Right VPN for China

When picking a VPN for use in China, several factors should be considered. Look for reliability in bypassing the Great Firewall, consistent connection speeds, and compatibility with the websites or apps you use most.

Security features like strong encryption, a kill switch, and a no-logs policy are essential to protect your data.

Ease of installation and customer support are also important, especially if issues arise while in a restricted network environment.

• Reliability: Not all VPNs work every time. Choose one known for consistency.

• Speed: Streaming and calls require higher bandwidth, so look for VPNs with fast download and upload speeds.

• Privacy: A strong no-logs policy ensures your activity is not tracked.

• Ease of Setup: Install and configure your VPN before you arrive in China.

• Support: Good customer service helps when connections fail or protocols need adjustment.

It is also wise to keep a backup option. Even the best VPNs can face temporary disruptions. By having at least two services ready, you improve your chances of staying connected no matter where you are in China.

Read Also: Learn Crypto Trading: Best Free Courses to Start in 2025

Conclusion

China’s internet restrictions can feel overwhelming, but the right VPN makes online access far more manageable.

Independent testing has shown ExpressVPN, NordVPN, ProtonVPN, Surfshark, and Mullvad to be among the most reliable options in 2025.

Each has unique strengths, from advanced privacy features to budget-friendly plans, yet all proved capable of bypassing the Great Firewall.

For travelers, expats, and locals who need consistent access to global platforms, installing a VPN before arriving in China remains critical.

While no service can guarantee 100% uptime, relying on one or two of the leading options significantly improves online stability.

For those also engaging in crypto, pairing a trusted VPN with a secure platform like Bitrue can further enhance digital safety.

With user-friendly tools and strong security features, Bitrue makes crypto trading easier and safer while keeping online activity private and efficient.

FAQ

Is using a VPN in China legal?

VPNs exist in a gray area in China. While the government blocks many, individuals often use them. However, caution is advised.

Which VPN works best for streaming in China?

ExpressVPN and NordVPN are frequently reported to unlock major platforms like Netflix and YouTube with consistency.

Should I download a VPN before going to China?

Yes, most VPN websites are blocked inside China, so it is best to set them up before traveling.

Can free VPNs work in China?

Most free VPNs fail to bypass the Firewall. ProtonVPN’s free version is an exception, but speeds are limited.

Do VPNs slow down the internet in China?

VPNs may reduce speed slightly due to encryption, but top providers such as ExpressVPN and Surfshark generally maintain stable and usable connections.

Disclaimer: The views expressed belong exclusively to the author and do not reflect the views of this platform. This platform and its affiliates disclaim any responsibility for the accuracy or suitability of the information provided. It is for informational purposes only and not intended as financial or investment advice.