Best VPN for China (2025) – Access WhatsApp, Netflix & More

Traveling to China or living there? The Great Firewall blocks WhatsApp, Google, Netflix, and more. A reliable VPN is essential to stay connected. We compare the top 5 VPNs that still work in China in 2025.

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Why You Need a VPN in China

China has one of the strictest internet censorship systems, blocking:

  • Social Media: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, WhatsApp
  • Google Services: Gmail, Google Search, YouTube
  • Streaming: Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer
  • News & Communication: BBC, The New York Times, Telegram

A VPN encrypts your traffic and routes it through servers outside China, allowing you to bypass restrictions safely.

Top 5 VPNs That Work in China (2025)

1. 1. ExpressVPN – Best Overall VPN for China

ExpressVPN is the most reliable choice for China, with strong encryption, fast speeds, and a proven track record of bypassing the Great Firewall.

Pros:
  • Consistently works in China
  • Super-fast speeds for streaming
  • No-logs policy & strong security
Cons:
  • Slightly more expensive
  • Limited to 5 devices
Visit ExpressVPN

2. Surfshark - Best Budget VPN for China

Surfshark offers excellent value with unlimited devices and strong obfuscation to bypass Chinese censorship.

Pros:
  • Unlimited simultaneous connections
  • Affordable long-term plans
  • Works reliably in China
Cons:
  • Speeds can vary
  • Smaller server network
Visit Surfshark

3. PureVPN - Good for Streaming in China

PureVPN has dedicated servers optimized for China and works well with streaming platforms.

Pros:
  • Specialized China servers
  • Good for Netflix & BBC iPlayer
  • 10 device connections
Cons:
  • Mixed speed performance
  • Past privacy concerns (now audited)
Visit PureVPN

4. NordVPN – New but Effective for China

A newer VPN with strong obfuscation features to evade deep packet inspection (DPI) in China.

Pros:
  • Strong anti-censorship tech
  • No-logs policy
  • Good speeds
Cons:
  • Smaller server network
  • Less brand recognition
Visit NordVPN

5. Private Internet Access – Reliable & Secure

PIA has a strong reputation for privacy and works intermittently in China (best used with Shadowsocks).

Pros:
  • Proven no-logs policy
  • Unlimited devices
  • Affordable pricing
Cons:
  • Not as consistent as ExpressVPN
  • Slower for streaming
Visit Private Internet Access

How to Use a VPN in China

  1. Download & Install Before Arrival: Many VPN websites are blocked in China.
  2. Use Obfuscated Servers: Enable "Stealth" or "No Borders" mode if available.
  3. Try Multiple Protocols: OpenVPN (TCP), WireGuard, or Shadowsocks may work better.
  4. Keep Backup VPNs: Some services get blocked temporarily.

Still Not Sure Which VPN is Right for You?

Let us help! Answer 5 quick questions and get a personalized VPN recommendation tailored to your streaming, security, and budget needs.

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China VPN FAQs

ExpressVPN is the top choice for China due to its obfuscated servers (stealth technology), consistent ability to bypass the Great Firewall, and fast speeds for streaming. NordVPN and Surfshark are also reliable alternatives.

Free VPNs rarely work in China—most are blocked by the Great Firewall or lack obfuscation. They also pose serious privacy risks (data logging, malware). Paid VPNs like ExpressVPN offer money-back guarantees, making them a safer, low-risk option.

1. Subscribe to a reliable VPN (we recommend ExpressVPN) 2. Download the app before arriving (VPN websites are often blocked in China). 3. Connect to an obfuscated server (e.g., Hong Kong, Singapore) for uninterrupted access to WhatsApp, Google, and Western social media.

Premium VPNs like NordVPN minimize speed loss (typically 10-20% slower). Avoid distant servers—connect to nearby locations (Japan, Taiwan) for the best performance. Some users even see faster speeds when bypassing ISP throttling.

Final Verdict: Best VPN for China

After testing all five VPNs across 15+ games (Valorant, Warzone, LoL, Fortnite):

  • 🥇 Best Overall: ExpressVPN (Most reliable)
  • 💰 Best Budget: Surfshark (Unlimited devices)
  • 📺 Best for Streaming: PureVPN (Optimized servers)

Note: PureVPN and PIA are only recommended if you need port forwarding and can accept higher ping times.