5 Best VPNs for Safari 2024: Better Than Browser Extensions

As a Mac user, I was disappointed to learn that there are no VPN browser extensions for Safari. Although Safari has some privacy features, like iCloud+ Private Relay that hides your IP address, a VPN offers more advanced protection. VPN apps encrypt your Safari connections, bypass geo-restrictions, and secure all apps on your device.

However, not all VPNs can effectively protect your Macs and iPhones. Even some of the top VPNs on the market leave out features on their Mac and iPhone apps, making them not worth the cost of a subscription.

Of the 35+ VPNs I tested, ExpressVPN is the best VPN for Safari, thanks to its highly secure network and superfast speeds. It also has a 30-day money back guarantee, so you can secure your Safari browser with ExpressVPN risk-free. Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

Secure Safari with ExpressVPN

Quick Guide: Best VPNs for Safari in 2024

Try ExpressVPN for Safari risk-free

Editor’s Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: ExpressVPN, Cyberghost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

The Best VPNs for Safari (Updated in 2024)

1. ExpressVPN — Best Safari VPN for Security, Speed, and Reliable Connections

Outstanding

Outstanding

📍Servers	3,000+
📱Devices	8
💰Refund	30 days
📝Keep logs	No
🔰Kill switch
📞Support 24/7	Yes

See Deals

Key Features:

The best VPNs ensure reliable connections with distant servers and during peak hours. I could always connect to an ExpressVPN server in 2-4 seconds regardless of location. My speeds remained consistent when using the VPN for an extended period. 

Additionally, ExpressVPN reliably accessed my favorite streaming sites, so I could enjoy my subscriptions like I was back home. ExpressVPN unblocks:

• Network Lock kill switch: Prevents websites from discovering your original IP address by killing internet traffic if your VPN connection drops. This feature isn’t available on iOS.
• TrustedServer technology: ExpressVPN uses RAM-based servers that can’t store session data for long. It also erases all data on every reboot for added security.
• Verified no-logs policy: Confirms that ExpressVPN doesn’t store any activity or connection logs that third parties can use to track your online activities.
• Threat Manager: DNS-based blocker stops websites and apps from tracking your activities and sharing your information.
• Built-in leak protection: ExpressVPN protects you from IP, DNS, and WebRTC leaks to keep your location and search history hidden.

ExpressVPN’s servers gave me the fastest speeds of all the VPNs I tested. My internet speed reduced marginally, with an average drop of 25% — it was still fast enough for browsing, torrenting, and streaming. During my tests, ExpressVPN’s speeds were fast enough to stream Netflix in 4K UHD without lag while browsing anonymously on Safari.

ExpressVPN’s superfast speeds helped me browse and stream on Safari without interruptions

The best VPNs ensure reliable connections — even with distant servers and during peak hours. I could always connect to an ExpressVPN server in 2-4 seconds whether I had picked a nearby option in the UK or faraway Australia. My speeds remained consistent when using the VPN for an extended period. The best part is while traveling, ExpressVPN reliably accessed my favorite streaming sites, so I could enjoy my subscriptions like I was back home. ExpressVPN unblocks:

There’s currently no VPN extension for Safari, but ExpressVPN has user-friendly native apps for Apple devices. When connected, ExpressVPN will protect your Safari browser and device. On Mac, you can pin ExpressVPN to the dock for quick access and even configure it to connect automatically on startup. ExpressVPN also maintains a similar and simple interface across its Mac and iOS apps. These apps support exclusive features — like Threat Manager — that aren’t available on Windows and Android.

You can easily switch or connect to an ExpressVPN server from the menu bar while browsing on Safari

I was disappointed that ExpressVPN’s kill switch isn’t available on iOS. But this is okay, considering the VPN still offers robust security and solid encryption on iOS. It also has super fast speeds and delivers a seamless browsing experience on Safari. An annual ExpressVPN plan costs $$4.994.99 per month — you get a 61% discount, so this plan offers the best value for money.

You can try ExpressVPN for Safari risk-free as it’s backed by a 30-day money back guarantee. If you’re not satisfied with the service, ask for a refund. When I tried, I found the process very straightforward. I contacted an agent via the 24/7 live chat, and they processed my request without questions. I had my money back in 5 business days.

Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

Try ExpressVPN for Safari risk-free

2. CyberGhost — Optimized Servers Ensure Fast Connections for Streaming and Torrenting on Safari

Outstanding

Outstanding

📍Servers	11,676+
📱Devices	7
💰Refund	45 days
📝Keep logs	No
🔰Kill switch
📞Support 24/7	Yes

See Deals

Key Features:

CyberGhost’s optimized servers offer secure connections to stream and download content on Safari. These servers reliably access geo-blocked websites and services — like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video. CyberGhost also runs regular tests on them, so you are guaranteed a working connection every time. The optimized servers are split into 2 categories, “For streaming” and “For downloading,” so you can find an appropriate server quickly.

CyberGhost’s “For downloading” servers show the user load on each location so you can pick a fast one

During tests, CyberGhost’s optimized servers improved my speeds for high-quality streams. I had minimal buffering and zero lag when streaming via Safari on my MacBook Air, and I enjoyed many shows in UHD. CyberGhost distributes its streaming servers by region. It has servers that unblock Netflix US, Netflix UK, and many more, so you can find the best one for your needs.

In addition to Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu, CyberGhost also unblocks:

CyberGhost is one of the best VPNs for torrenting on Safari — it has 70+ locations optimized for secure P2P file-sharing. You’ll find these servers, organized by country, in the “For downloading” tab. Here you’ll also see the user load on each location. Low user loads usually mean more stable download speeds and reliable connections. Keep in mind that CyberGhost only supports torrenting on desktop devices, so you’ll have to use a Mac to torrent safely with Safari.

You’ll find advanced security features on CyberGhost. It has:

• Military-grade encryption: Secures your traffic on every connection with 256-bit encryption that’s nearly impossible for hackers to crack.
• Leak protection: Prevents IP address, DNS, and WebRTC leaks so you can stay anonymous online.
• An automatic kill switch: Cuts access to the internet if the VPN connection is interrupted, ensuring your data remains hidden.
• WiFi protection: Protects you from malicious actors by configuring CyberGhost to connect when you use new or unsecured WiFi networks.

CyberGhost works with an impressive range of operating systems, including those that support Safari: iOS and Mac. You can also download its native apps for Android, Windows, Amazon Fire Stick, smart TVs, and routers if you have more devices to protect. There’s even a Smart DNS option for devices that don’t typically support a VPN, like an Xbox or PlayStation.

The problem with CyberGhost is that its long-distance connections aren’t as fast as other VPNs. However, my speed tests proved it’s still fast enough to stream Netflix US without lag and quickly download files on Safari. When testing distant servers, my average speed drop was about 40%, which might seem like a lot, but it didn’t affect my browser’s performance. Plus, you can improve your connection quality by using optimized servers.

CyberGhost is one of the more affordable VPNs, with plans starting at $2.19 per month for a subscription. Its annual plans also offer the longest money back guarantee window on this list. You can try Safari with CyberGhost risk-free for 45 days! If you change your mind, request a refund. The process is simple — all I did was cancel my subscription via email, and I had my money back in less than a week.

Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as CyberGhost VPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

Try CyberGhost for Safari risk-free

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Large Server Network Supports Seamless Safari Browsing

Excellent

Excellent

📍Servers	35,000+
📱Devices	Unlimited
💰Refund	30 days
📝Keep logs	No
🔰Kill switch
📞Support 24/7	Yes

See Deals

Key Features:

Private Internet Access (PIA) has an extensive server network that delivers smooth connections for Safari. With over 35,000 servers to choose from, I never had to deal with overcrowding when browsing or streaming with PIA. Overcrowded servers reduce your connection quality and cause lag and buffering delays. Since there are so many servers on PIA, you can always switch to a faster option if you notice one server is loaded down.

Check for PIA servers with the lowest latency to get fast streaming speeds

PIA’s latency display helps you find the fastest available server. Every location shows latency, measured in milliseconds (ms). The higher the latency, the slower your internet connection will be, so always choose servers with a lower number. Better yet, PIA can select a server for you automatically. During tests, the auto-selected servers gave me the fastest speeds and lowest latency, so I didn’t have to search through the list myself.

While it’s slower than ExpressVPN, PIA offers high speeds for streaming, torrenting, and gaming on Safari. It even has some streaming-optimized servers which provide faster and more reliable connections to access popular streaming sites. PIA can access:

MACE is an excellent malware and ad blocker for Safari. Safari already blocks cross-site tracking to some extent, but PIA’s MACE ad blocker works system-wide. It acts at the DNS level to stop tracking requests. You can switch MACE on/off from PIA’s privacy settings. You’ll enjoy browsing the web without annoying pop-up ads, banners, and auto-play videos. MACE is available on Macs but not iOS devices.

In addition to privacy features, PIA offers customizable security settings. They include:

• Customizable encryption: Lets you choose between AES 128-bit or 256-bit encryption levels to secure your data from hackers. 128-bit can improve poor VPN connections.
• DNS servers: PIA runs its DNS servers to prevent leaks that could reveal your search requests to third parties. It also lets you set up a custom DNS if you know how.
• Kill switch: Blocks internet traffic to prevent leaks if your connection is unstable.
• Split tunneling: Lets you choose which apps and sites pass through the VPN tunnel and which can bypass it. This feature doesn’t work on macOS 12 (Monterey).

A minor con is that PIA can’t unblock BBC iPlayer, even if you use its UK streaming server. Still, it reliably accesses Netflix US, Hulu, and other popular streaming platforms. Considering it costs as low as $2.19 per month for a subscription, PIA is a budget-friendly VPN that offers many advanced features. It even has one of the best month-to-month VPN plans.

The best way to decide if PIA is good for you is to try it out yourself. Its plans come with a 30-day money back guarantee, so you can get PIA for Safari without risk. If you’re not satisfied, just ask for a refund. When I tested the process, a live chat agent processed my request immediately, and I had my money back in 7 days.

Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

 Try PIA for Safari risk-free

4. PrivateVPN — Stealth Mode Bypasses Geoblocks and Firewalls Worldwide

Excellent

Excellent

📍Servers	200+
📱Devices	10
💰Refund	30 days
📝Keep logs	No
🔰Kill switch
📞Support 24/7	Yes

See Deals

Key Features:

PrivateVPN is an excellent choice for bypassing restricted sites on Safari due to its obfuscation feature. Its stealth mode disguises your VPN connection as regular traffic, enabling you to access sites blocked by firewalls at your office or school. PrivateVPN is also effective in countries with internet censorship such as China, Russia, and the UAE.

Impressively, PrivateVPN’s otherwise small server network was consistently fast. It uses High Quality Network (HQN) servers, which maintain constant speeds regardless of the connection distance. I could stream content without lag and browse hitch-free regardless of how close or far my server connection was.

PrivateVPN has a solid server network that reliably unblocks most streaming platforms

In addition to its regular servers, PrivateVPN also offers Dedicated IPs in 16 locations. With these servers, PrivateVPN assigns you a dynamic IP address only you can use. It makes it easier for you to access geo-restricted streaming sites like Netflix. You’re also harder to track online since you get a new IP address every time you connect to a server.

PrivateVPN has reliable servers, and it also protects you online with the following security features:

• Owns and operates all its servers: So, it can guarantee server quality is in line with company policies.
• Leak protection: Stops IPv6 leaks and standard IP, DNS, and WebRTC leaks, so your data remains private and your online activities anonymous.
• Zero-log policy: PrivateVPN won’t collect or store your data while connected to its servers, but there’s been no third-party audit.
• Multiple VPN protocols: PrivateVPN supports OpenVPN, L2TP, and IKEv2 protocols on Apple devices.

For beginners, PrivateVPN has a simple interface. When you launch the app, you’re met with a basic screen with just enough buttons to help you set up a connection. You can then switch to Advanced View or Settings to configure your security settings.

PrivateVPN may have the smallest server network on this list, but it does incredibly well at unblocking popular streaming sites. PrivateVPN accesses:

I noticed that I occasionally had to deal with user congestion when connected to PrivateVPN’s network. However, this was rare, and I could always switch servers when it happened. But, if it’s a dealbreaker for you, ExpressVPN’s extensive server network offers many reliable server locations, so you never have to deal with congestion.

For 30 days, you can protect your Safari browser with PrivateVPN risk-free. It has long-term subscriptions for as low as $2.00/month, all backed by a 30-day money back guarantee. If you decide that PrivateVPN isn’t right for you, you can ask for a refund. When I reached out via email, I only had to mention why I was canceling my account. Afterward, the agent approved my request, and I had my money back in 5 business days.

Try PrivateVPN for Safari risk-free

5. IPVanish — Secures Safari on All Your Apple Devices at the Same Time

Great VPN

Great VPN

📍Servers	2,400+
📱Devices	Unlimited
💰Refund	30 days
📝Keep logs	No
🔰Kill switch
📞Support 24/7	Yes

See Deals

Key Features:

IPVanish doesn’t limit device connections, letting you secure unlimited devices simultaneously. It also helps you browse, game, and stream on multiple devices without losing connection quality. I tested this by using IPVanish on all 4 of my Apple products, a Windows laptop, and 2 Android phones. I didn’t notice a significant speed drop and could stream and torrent without interruptions. However, I couldn’t stream in UHD on all devices.

IPVanish’s free SOCKS5 proxy gives high speeds for torrenting and can help you unblock more streaming sites. It won’t encrypt your traffic but will effectively mask your IP address so you can bypass geoblocks. Also, if you have slow internet speeds, SOCKS5 can improve your connection since it doesn’t use encryption.

If you want to maintain security and speed, stick to IPVanish’s regular VPN servers. You can manually select the fastest server near you by filtering countries, ping, and user loads. Even distant servers only dropped my speeds by 50%. However, if your internet connection is already poor, avoid faraway locations.

IPVanish lets you filter servers by ping and load

IPVanish has multiple streaming protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard. I prefer WireGuard because it balances security with great speeds. WireGuard also works well on Macs and iPhones, ensuring a seamless Safari browsing experience.

To safeguard all your devices, IPVanish offers the following premium security features:

• An audited zero logs policy: IPVanish doesn’t log your online activities and personal data on its servers. Leviathan has independently audited its privacy policy.
• IP leak protection: Prevents IP, DNS, and WebRTC leaks, so your browsing information stays hidden from hackers and trackers.
• AES 256-bit encryption: Military-grade encryption shields your information from unauthorized third parties.
• A kill switch: When you use the OpenVPN protocol, IPVanish protects your data by blocking web traffic if your VPN connection drops. Not available on iOS.

On IPVanish, you’ll find highly detailed connection reports, better than any other Safari VPN provides. In the “Quick Connect” tab, a chart shows your download and upload speeds, current VPN protocol, connection time, and new IP address. The information here will be helpful when you want to troubleshoot connection issues.

IPVanish is a good streaming VPN. It reliably unblocks:

Although it displays useful server information and configuration options, IPVanish’s interface can be a lot to take in at first. In particular, I didn’t find its Mac app to be beginner-friendly. However, if you’re an experienced VPN user, you’ll enjoy the level of control you get with IPVanish.

IPVanish’s plans start from $2.19/month. There’s also a 30-day money back guarantee to try IPVanish for Safari risk-free. If you change your mind, you can get a refund by logging in to your account dashboard and canceling your subscription within 30 days. I found the process very fast and got my money back within 24 hours.

Try IPVanish for Safari risk-free

Quick Comparison Table: 2024’s Best VPNs for Safari

Editor’s Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: ExpressVPN, Cyberghost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

How I Tested and Ranked the Best Safari VPNs

I tested the top VPN services in 2024 and ranked the best VPNs for Safari using the following criteria:

• Easy-to-use iOS and Mac apps — The VPNs on this list have intuitive apps for Mac and iOS that will secure the Safari browser and other apps on your device.
• Global network of servers — An ideal VPN for Safari should have an extensive network of servers so you can always find a fast option close to your physical location. Also, the more countries a VPN has servers in, the more geoblocks it’ll be able to bypass.
• Fast speeds — All VPNs slow your speeds due to encryption, but some cause only a slight drop. I shortlisted the fastest VPNs I tested so you can enjoy secure and fast browsing. They’ll also help you stream your favorite shows from anywhere without buffering or lag.
• Works with streaming platforms — The VPNs listed above are some of the few providers that reliably work with Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and other popular streaming platforms.
• Security and privacy — Each VPN protects Safari with AES 256-bit encryption, multiple VPN protocols, a kill switch, IP leak protection, and a strict no-logs policy.
• Value for money — These VPNs offer robust security features for Safari with reasonable monthly and long-term subscription plans. They also offer money back guarantees so you can test them out without risk.
• Customer support — If an issue comes up, these top VPNs provide 24/7 customer support via live chat and email. They also have extensive online guides, and some VPNs offer phone support.

VPN Browser Extensions, Apps, or Private Relay for Safari: Which Is Better?

A VPN extension is a lightweight plugin used to create a secure VPN connection in a browser. Presently, there are no free or paid VPN browser extensions for Safari. Since the launch of Safari 12, Mac users can only install Safari extensions available in the App Store. You won’t find any VPN extensions there because they require deep system privileges that Apple won’t allow.

In any case, you’re better off using a VPN app rather than a browser extension. For one thing, VPN extensions only encrypt browser traffic, exposing other internet activities to your ISP and third parties. Secondly, browser extensions offer a fraction of VPN features. For example, VPN extensions aren’t equipped with kill switches and don’t protect all DNS requests from leaks. In fact, most VPN browser extensions are only HTTPS proxies.

A VPN app is more reliable for complete protection and privacy. Premium VPNs will secure your internet connections with AES 256-bit encryption, hide your IP address, prevent DNS and IP leaks, and bypass tough geoblocks. They also provide native apps for Mac, iOS, and more. Plus, they allow an average of 5 simultaneous device connections so you can protect your phones, iPads, and PCs.

Apple’s recent addition of a privacy feature (iCloud+ Private Relay) to Safari is impressive, but it cannot replace a VPN. Private Relay works by swapping your real IP address with a temporary one and encrypting your DNS requests. This way, it stops anyone from monitoring your Safari browsing activities.

The problem is Private Relay only works in Safari, leaving the rest of your internet traffic vulnerable to malicious third parties. It can’t stop IP leaks or obfuscate your internet traffic — so it won’t bypass network firewalls. Also, Private Relay only assigns an IP address within your location, meaning it can’t access your local Netflix library when you travel abroad.

You should see iCloud+ Private Relay as a free proxy (that only works in Safari) at best. It doesn’t offer the advanced protection and robust features of a premium VPN. And if you’re trying to choose between a VPN app and a VPN browser extension, it is always better to use an app.

Setup Guide: How to Install a VPN for Safari

Only Apple devices support the Safari browser, which is why all the VPNs on this list have native apps for macOS and iOS. Here are quick installation guides to get you started.

macOS

iOS/iPadOS (iPhone and iPad)

Secure Safari with ExpressVPN

Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

FAQs: VPNs and Safari

Try ExpressVPN for Safari risk-free

Stay Safe Online With a Premium VPN for Safari

There’s no VPN extension for Safari, and despite Safari’s impressive privacy updates, it can’t completely protect you online. The best way to reduce security risks to your browser and Apple devices is with a quality VPN app. I tested multiple VPNs for advanced encryption, speeds, unblocking capabilities, and other features. I found that ExpressVPN is the best VPN for Safari.

I was impressed by ExpressVPN’s superfast speeds, intuitive apps, and reliable connections worldwide. You can try ExpressVPN for Safari yourself risk-free as it’s backed by a 30-day money back guarantee. If you change your mind, ask for a full refund. I tested the policy via the 24/7 live chat, and an agent processed my request without questions. I had my money back within a week.

Summary — Best VPNs for Safari in 2024

Rank

Provider name

Our score

Price

Top Ranked Top Choice

1.

9.8

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$4.99 / month Save 61%

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2.

9.6

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$2.19 / month Save 83%

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3.

9.4

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$2.19 / month Save 82%

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3.

9.4

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$2.03 / month Save 83%

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4.

8.8

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$2.00 / month Save 83%

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5.

8.4

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$2.19 / month Save 83%

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Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: ExpressVPN, Cyberghost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.