Best VPNs for China in 2025: which ones really work and how to choose them

Accessing the internet in China in 2025 is still a challenge. Between the Great Firewall, restrictions on Google, YouTube, Instagram, and WhatsApp, VPN remains the only effective tool for free browsing. But what are today’s best VPNs for China that really work and are secure?

In this guide updated to 2025, we analyze the most reliable solutions, how they work, and what features a VPN must have to guarantee privacy and complete access to blocked sites.

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Why you need a VPN in China in 2025

China continues to maintain one of the strictest digital censorships in the world. The Great Firewall blocks Western platforms such as Google, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and many streaming services.
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) allows you to encrypt your connection and mask your IP address, simulating a location in another country.

Thanks to this, you can:

• access blocked websites and apps;
• protect your privacy while browsing;
• bypass limitations on public or corporate Wi-Fi networks.

If you are planning a trip or live in China, a reliable VPN is essential.

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Best VPNs for China in 2025

ExpressVPN – the most stable in the long term

ExpressVPN remains among the few VPNs that can consistently bypass the Great Firewall.
It offers servers in over 90 countries, AES-256 encryption, and applications optimized for desktop and mobile.

✅ Pros: excellent speed, 24/7 support, “stealth” servers for China.
❌ Cons: price slightly above average.

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NordVPN – perfect for streaming and security

NordVPN uses Obfuscated Servers technology, capable of hiding VPN usage even from the most severe controls.
It is ideal for those who want to use Netflix, YouTube, or other blocked platforms.

✅ Pros: advanced security, double encryption, fast connections.
❌ Cons: you need to configure it before entering China, because the official website is blocked.

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Surfshark – the affordable and multi-device choice

Surfshark has established itself for its excellent quality-price ratio: a single subscription covers unlimited devices.
The “NoBorders” and “Camouflage Mode” features allow you to browse even in the most controlled areas.

✅ Pros: competitive price, simple interface, unlimited connections.
❌ Cons: slight loss of speed during peak hours.

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How to configure the VPN before entering China

It is essential to install and test the VPN before arriving in China: VPN official websites are almost all blocked in the territory.
Once you have downloaded the app, activate the OpenVPN or WireGuard protocol and verify the correct functioning of the obfuscated mode (Stealth).

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Free VPNs? Better avoid them

Many free services promise access to blocked sites, but in reality they do not bypass the firewall or, worse, collect personal data.
If you are looking for a free but secure solution, you should consider alternatives such as 30-day trial plans offered by ExpressVPN or NordVPN.

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Alternatives and complementary tools

If you travel frequently and want stable connections even outside China, you can combine the VPN with an international eSIM.
Discover the best solutions in our guide on how to activate an eSIM for Japan 2025 and on how to activate an eSIM for Egypt: the same providers offer plans for Hong Kong or Singapore as well.

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Conclusion

In 2025, using a VPN in China is still possible, but only with serious and updated services.
ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark remain the three most reliable choices for those who want to access the internet without restrictions, protecting their privacy and personal data.

If you want to learn more about other points accumulation systems and travel, also read:

• How the Emirates Skywards program works
• How the Avios system works with American Express