5 Best FREE VPN for China (2025)

China has placed numerous restrictions on accessing the Internet. It prevents using social media, email, streaming sites, etc. This could impact your privacy, therefore it is a good practice to use a VPN for China to access any website.

VPN helps you to protect your privacy while surfing the Internet. It unlocks numerous websites and provides you with a secure browsing experience. However, it is important to find the right VPN for complete protection.

I have thoroughly researched 40+ best free VPN for China by dedicating over 115 hours to deliver this trusted guide. This well-researched list includes both free and paid VPNs, with in-depth reviews of their features, pros, and cons. This professional article will help you discover the most suitable VPN for China. Make sure to read the full article for credible and exclusive insights. Read more…

Our Best Free China VPN recommendation

 

Best Free VPNs for China: Top Picks!

	#1 Best Overall
VPN Provider	ExpressVPN	NordVPN	Surfshark	FastestVPN
Number of servers	3,000+	5,000+	3200+	800+
No. of Server Countries	94	59	65	50+
24/7 support	✔️	✔️	✔️	✔️
Max connections	5	6	Unlimited	Unlimited
Our Review We rate VPNs based on factors such as Speed, User Experience, Bandwidth, Countries Supported, Pricing, No Log Policy etc.	Excellent - 9.8	Excellent - 9.7	Good - 9.6	Good - 9.5
Free trial VPNs offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, but you must subscribe to the 1-month plan first.	30 days	30 days	30 days	31-day money-back guarantee
Link	Try Free Now	Try Free Now	Try Free Now	Try Free Now

1) ExpressVPN

Best Overall VPN for China

ExpressVPN is one of the best VPNs for China. It helps you browse the Internet securely and guards against scammers. I could access unlimited music, social media websites, and videos with ease. The VPN does not log IP addresses, browsing history, DNS queries, or traffic destinations. 

This working VPN offers online protection using leak proofing and encryption facility. It helped me remain secure by hiding my IP address and encrypting my network data. Express VPN provides 24/7 assistance via email as well as live chat. This is one of the best VPNs for Android in China, as it even allows you to pay with Bitcoin. ExpressVPN encrypts user web traffic and masks IP addresses. I noticed that it can also effectively help me hide my physical location.

Features:

• Server Network: I found out that ExpressVPN offers a vast server network, including virtual servers, which is perfect for supporting numerous streaming services.
• Supported Protocols: ExpressVPN supports Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2, L2TP/IPsec, PPTP, and WireGuard®. These protocols ensured that all my online activities remained secure at all times.
• Router Connection: I could connect it with up to 5 devices or link ExpressVPN to my router to secure all network devices.
• Privacy: ExpressVPN’s TrustedServer makes sure that no activity or connection logs are present and all data is wiped upon server reboot.

Key Specs:

Supported Platforms:	iOS, Android, Linux, macOS, Microsoft Windows
No of Servers:	3000+ servers
Server Countries:	94 countries
Split Tunneling:	Yes
Data Allowance:	Unlimited
Torrenting:	Yes
Kill Switch:	Yes
Able to unblock:	YouTube TV, Netflix, iPlayer, Amazon Prime, Hulu
No-logging policy:	Yes
Ip Addresses:	Dynamic
Simultaneous Connection:	Unlimited devices
Free Trial/Refund:	30-Day Money-Back Guarantee

How to use ExpressVPN for Free:

• Start your risk-free trial for ExpressVPN.
• You can cancel your subscription at any time. There are no hidden costs.
• ExpressVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. It also provides flexible pricing plans, which makes it an easy-to-use and valuable privacy tool.

Go to ExpressVPN >>

30-Day Free Trial

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2) NordVPN

Best for Connect double VPN, onion over VPN servers, P2P

According to my research, NordVPN is one of the best VPNs for China. It does not track, collect, or share your data. I particularly liked how it secures all data by encrypting everything sent and received. I noticed that this tool effectively blocks ads and malware. I could access many streaming websites on my iPhone with ease, making it a reliable choice.

Features:

• Onion Over VPN: I could enhance my security with NordVPN's Onion Network. Thus allowing me to combine the benefits of the TOR browser.
• Servers: NordVPN offers 5,200 servers in 60 countries, including 11 in Indonesia. This ensures global encryption for all users.
• Site to Site: As per my research, NordLayer’s site-to-site feature links employees across locations to the same VPN network.
• Supported Platforms: I was able to connect it with up to six devices on iOS, Android, macOS, Windows, Linux, and Android TVs, including Amazon Kindle, gaming consoles, or Fire Stick.

Supported Platforms:	Linux, Windows, macOS, iOS
No of Servers:	5000+
Server Countries:	59
Split Tunneling:	Yes
Data Allowance:	Unlimited
Torrenting:	Yes
Kill Switch:	Yes
Able to unblock:	YouTube TV, Netflix, iPlayer, Amazon Prime, Hulu
No-logging policy:	Yes
Ip Addresses:	Static
Simultaneous Connection:	6 devices
Free Trial:	Yes - 30 days
Best for:	Connect double VPN, onion over VPN servers, P2P.

How to use NordVPN for Free:

• Start your risk-free trial for NordVPN.
• You can cancel your subscription at any time. There are no hidden costs.
• NordVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. It also offers flexible pricing plans, which makes it an easy to use and valuable privacy tool.

Go to NordVPN >>

30-Day Free Trial

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3) Surfshark

Best for Gaming, browsing, and streaming

Surfshark is a VPN software that gives you quick and secure access to streaming sites. It supports secure tunneling with protocols like OpenVPN and IKEv2. I could hide my location and keep my sensitive data safe. This software allows apps and websites to bypass the VPN. You can protect your identity by hiding your real IP address. I like the fact that it does not log your IP or WebRTC and prevents DNS leaks.

It is one of the best VPNs in China, and it allows P2P connections via VPN on certain servers. This tool can block unwanted websites without any hassle. It allowed me to share my IP address with other people on the same server. This program also enables you to bookmark your favorite server location for future use.

Features:

• Servers: I found that SurfShark delivers excellent performance across various VPN use cases. Thus, it offers 3,200 highly encrypted servers in more than 100 countries, including China. 
• MultiHop Feature: SurfShark’s MultiHop feature offers double VPN protection. This allowed me to select multiple IP addresses for enhanced security.
• Supported Protocols: This VPN supports protocols like WireGuard, IKEv2/IPsec, and OpenVPN UDP/TCP.
• Supported Platforms: I found it compatible with iOS, macOS, Windows, Android, FireTV, and Linux.

Key Specs:

Supported Platforms:	Mac, Windows, iOS, Linux, and Android
No of Servers:	3200+
Server Countries:	65
Split Tunneling:	Yes
Data Allowance:	Unlimited
Torrenting:	Yes
Kill Switch:	Yes
Able to unblock:	YouTube TV, Netflix, iPlayer, Amazon Prime, Hulu
No-logging policy:	Yes
Ip Addresses:	Static
Simultaneous Connection:	Unlimited
Free Trial:	Yes - 7 day free trial
Best for:	Gaming, browsing, and streaming

How to use Surfshark for Free:

• Start your risk-free trial of Surfshark.
• You can cancel your subscription at any time. There are no extra costs.
• Surfshark offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. It provides different plans for online privacy and protection.

Go to Surfshark >>

30-Day Free Trial

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4) FastestVPN

Cheapest Lifetime VPN Subscription

FastestVPN is a reliable lifetime VPN subscription service from the Cayman Islands. It provides fast processing, secure encryption, and split tunneling, which I found very helpful. I was able to protect my data easily with this service.

It is one of the few legitimate lifetime subscription services. At just $40 for lifetime access, this company offers one of the best deals available. Moreover, I learned that it has servers in 50+ countries and over 55+ locations.

Features:

• Encryption: I noticed that it has AES-256-bit encryption, which is one of the best solutions for top-tier security. In fact, it is typically used in military applications. Thus allowing you to avoid security risks.
• Protocols: It supports multiple VPN protocols, including WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2, IPSec, OpenConnect, and L2TP.
• Kill Switch: The Internet Kill Switch helped me maintain encryption and prevent security risks during VPN connection drops.
• Split Tunneling: It is available across all apps, including Windows, iOS, and Android.
• Customer Support: I received 24/7 unlimited live chat support for assistance anytime.

Key Specs:

Supported Platforms:	Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Fire TV, and more
No of Servers:	800+ servers in 50+ countries
Split Tunneling:	Yes
Data Allowance:	Unlimited
Torrenting:	Yes
Kill Switch:	Yes
Able to unblock:	Netflix, Hulu, HBO, and more
No-logging policy:	Yes
Free Trial:	No - 31-day money-back guarantee

How to use FastestVNP for Free:

• Start your risk-free trial for FastestVPN
• You can cancel your subscription at any time within 31 days. You get your money back - no questions asked
• If you like the service, you may continue the subscription, as it costs just $40 for a lifetime subsription!

Go to FastestVPN >>

31-Day Money-back Guarantee

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5) Private Internet Access

Best for Security

Private Internet Access is great for accessing any website with ease. It helps you secure your browsing and encrypts all transmitted data. I noticed that it supports both IPSec and IKEv2, which are essential for strong encryption. I suggest considering Private Internet Access for secure and easy web access.

Private Internet Access is one of the best VPNs for China for excellent high-speed live streaming. It uses a 256-AES encryption technique to increase security. This good working VPN includes a kill switch that automatically stops network traffic when an Internet connection is lost. It is one of the best free VPNs for China that protects you against DNS, IPv6 leaks, and WebRTC.

Features:

• Effective Killswitch: When my VPN connection drops, I could rely on the killswitch to cut off all internet access, ensuring my security.
• Built-in Ad Blocking: This VPN blocks ads and trackers, keeping your browsing experience clean and private. I visit many sites often and usually find a lot of pop-ups on them, which didn't appear while using this VPN.
• Leading Protocols: Private Internet Access supports secure, open-source protocols like OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IPsec.
• No Log Policy: I liked its strict no-log policy, which ensures your browsing history, IP address, and DNS queries are never stored, proven by court cases and independent audits.
• Multihop: The multihop feature routes your traffic through two VPN servers. Thus adding an extra layer of security to make tracking more difficult.

Key Specs:

Supported Platforms:	Windows, iOS, Android, Linux, macOS
No of Servers:	10,000+
Server Countries:	84+
Split Tunneling:	Yes
Data Allowance:	Unlimited
Torrenting:	Yes
Kill Switch:	Yes
Able to unblock:	YouTube TV, Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu
No-logging policy:	Yes
Ip Addresses:	Static
Simultaneous Connection:	10+
Free Trial:	No - 30 days money-back guarantee
Best for:	Security

How to use Private Internet Access for Free:

• Go to this link. Signup for the cheapest plan. Download and enjoy the VPN.
• Claim a refund under the 30-days moneyback guarantee.

Go to PIA >>

30-Day Money-back Guarantee

What is the best strategy to use a VPN in China?

I suggest performing the following techniques to use VPN in China:

1. Subscribe to multiple VPNs.
2. Download and install the VPNs before you visit China.
3. Troubleshoot your VPN connections.
4. Keep only the working VPN and unsubscribe/claim refund for the non-working VPN.

This strategy allows you to troubleshoot your VPN connection before you arrive in China. VPN software may not work due to antivirus software, firewalls, company intranet restrictions, and other technical challenges not related to the VPN software itself. So, if you select the VPN from the above list, when you actually arrive in China, you will be sure that it is working.

How can I access Google Play in China?

Perform the following steps to access Google Play in China:

Step 1: You need to select a VPN you would like to use from the above list.

Step 2: Download and install VPN software on your device. You will find that most of the VPN services offer compatibility with popular operating systems.

Step 3: Log in with credentials and connect to the VPN by choosing the locations available.

Step 4: Access Google play store as normal.

How does China block VPNs?

China government is becoming stricter over the use of a VPN. This country allows you to use only a few virtual private networks. However, they have to be the Chinese government approved.

Here are the techniques used by China to block VPN:

• Blocking VPN websites: VPNs helps you to protect your privacy and information online. However, some websites violate those rights by accessing VPNs in China.
• URL Filtering: It is a technique that limits access by comparing your traffic from accessing the VPN. China VPN server also blocks websites containing some suspicious words.
• Blocking VPN Servers: If you are using a VPN, your PC or phone needs to interact with the server’s IP. It is given to you by your virtual private network supplier. This is not troublesome to track for the Great Firewall. Therefore, your VPN application will not work in order to interact with the server.
• Deep Packet Inspection: This is a further developed strategy that can block a VPN. It can identify and block specific data packets encrypted by the VPN protocol.
• DNS Poisoning: Your PC contacts DNS server to demand particular IP when client PC interacts with websites. The firewall here attempts to harm DNS restrictions, and therefore, you cannot access any website.

How Did We Choose Best FREE VPN for China?

At Guru99, we are dedicated to providing accurate, relevant, and objective information. After thoroughly researching over 40 VPNs for China and investing 115+ hours, we created a trusted guide with detailed reviews of both free and paid options. Check out below important factors. Our professional insights include features, pros, and cons, making this a credible resource.

• Security Features: Consider VPNs with encryption that protects sensitive data from potential breaches.
• Access to Restricted Sites: Helps you bypass China's internet restrictions for seamless browsing.
• Ease of Use: Look for tools that are user-friendly and do not require technical knowledge.
• Connection Stability: Make sure you choose a VPN that provides uninterrupted connections even during peak hours.
• Device Compatibility: It is essential to pick a VPN that works on multiple platforms for better flexibility.
• Server Options: Pay attention to VPNs offering servers near China for the most effective performance.
• No-Log Policy: Aim to use services that ensure privacy by avoiding data logging.

How to unblock Google, YouTube, and more in China?

You can use VPN that works in China to unblock Google, YouTube, and more websites. It is best that you use clients or apps for a specific platform like desktop, TV streaming, mobile, etc.

All you have to do is open the VPN, choose a server location, and turn it on. Your device will pretend like you are surfing the Internet using the server available outside of China.

How does China block VPNs with the Great Firewall?

China has built a nationwide firewall to keep track of every session created by device across the country. It blackholes (anti-spam technique) websites via Border Gateway Protocol (BGP). BGP was designed to allow routers to work in an efficient way. It enables you to know the total number of resources that are available to use.

Most of the VPN providers have server networks blackholed in China.

Is my social media monitored in China?

Yes. China monitors its domestic and international social media platforms like QQ, Douyin, Weibo, WeChat, etc. It checks each person’s profile, shared files, posts, and messages. This social data is combined with biometric data, video surveillance footage, and shopping histories.

The authorities in China have made it hard to be anonymous online. You need to enter your real name when signing up for any social media platform. It is best that you connect to a VPN to send private messages.

FAQs:

Verdict:

All the 5 VPN service providers in this article are highly reliable. However, the top three services stood out to me with better stability and features. 

• ExpressVPN is my top choice since it offers impressive speed and superior security features. Thus making it a great option for bypassing censorship.
• NordVPN is a robust and reliable solution. It comes with a comprehensive set of features that ensure secure and customizable browsing.
• Surfshark stands out as a cost-effective yet powerful option. Using this VPN, I received excellent performance and unlimited device connections, so I would recommend it for travelers and expats.