Does Proton VPN Work in China? — TESTED 2024
Reading time: 17 min
Updated on April 16, 2024
Proton VPN is a fantastic VPN service thanks to its great speeds and security but, like all others, it’s been blocked internally by the Chinese government. So the question is, can it bypass China’s censorship?
From our testing: unfortunately not. However, there are a few other premium VPNs that can consistently do so.
After thorough testing, the #1 VPN for China is ExpressVPN, thanks to its reliability in bypassing blocks and lightning-fast speeds to servers all around the world. It’s risk-free to try ExpressVPN for yourself as it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not satisfied with the performance, you can always request a full refund. 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.
Important: Using a non-government-approved VPN in China is technically illegal. Although there’ve not been any cases of tourists facing legal consequences for using one there, please use caution.
Does Proton VPN Still Work in China?
I discovered that Proton VPN is no longer functional in China. Furthermore, towards the end of 2019, Proton VPN issued an announcement stating that it had been blocked by the Chinese government. This restriction also applies to associated services like Proton Mail.
In another blog post, the team at Proton VPN confirmed how they have yet to consistently bypass China’s Great Firewall. Conversely, it has reliable results bypassing censorship in Russia, Turkey, Iran, and Egypt. This just goes to show how difficult it truly is for even top-tier VPN providers to deal with China’s highly advanced Great Firewall.
Short on Time? These Are the Best VPNs to Use in China
- ExpressVPN — #1 VPN for China with unlimited data, reliable servers, 24/7 live chat support, and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Try ExpressVPN today!
- PrivateVPN — Easy access to popular sites, but it doesn’t have an audited no-logs policy.
- VyprVPN — Powerful Chameleon protocol helps bypass censors, but has a mismatched pricing structure between long- and short-term plans.
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.
The Best VPNs That Still Work in China
1. ExpressVPN — Best VPN for China With Cutting-Edge Security
Key Features:
- World-class security features including obfuscation, leak protection, and 256-bit encryption
- 3,000+ high-speed servers in 105 countries for reliable connectivity
- Protect up to 8 devices at the same time
- 24/7 customer support via email, live chat, and extensive knowledge base
- 30-day money-back guarantee
ExpressVPN’s world-class security features make it the best VPN for reliably bypassing China’s Great Firewall and safely accessing global content. It does this with numerous technologies, including:
- Obfuscation on all servers — hides the fact that a VPN is being used, thereby preventing tracking and connection blocks.
- AES 256-bit military-grade encryption — conceals all traffic from third parties.
- Protection against DNS & IP leaks — to avoid any identifying information from being made visible.
- IP rotation — keeps changing your IP to make you an ever-moving target for online threats.
- Auto kill switch — blocks internet connection if VPN drops out.
- Proprietary Lightway Protocol — for high speeds and security.
With its TrustedServer technology, ExpressVPN was also one of the first VPN providers to implement a RAM-based server network. This means that nothing is ever permanently written to a disk, so all data is lost as soon as a server is restarted or loses power. This adds extra security against physical seizure of hardware.
Rounding out ExpressVPN’s security features is the fact that its no-logs policy and server infrastructure are independently audited by third parties to prove its validity. ExpressVPN is also based in the British Virgin Islands, meaning it’s also not under the jurisdiction of a country with mandatory data retention laws or mass surveillance programs.
Fortunately, ExpressVPN isn’t just highly secure, it’s also really fast. In my tests on multiple global servers, it dropped by an average of just 14.6%. Many other premium VPNs routinely drop by over 30%, making this a fantastic result. If you’re connecting from China to distant servers run by services in the West, it’s essential to have speed on your side.
These high speeds also make ExpressVPN an excellent VPN for streaming Netflix and various other popular services. Some of these include:
| Netflix (US, UK, Japan, and more) | Disney+ | Hulu | Amazon Prime Video | Max | BBC iPlayer |
| CBS All Access | Hotstar | Showtime | DAZN | ESPN | Paramount+ |
| Peacock | Discovery+ | fuboTV | Sling TV | YouTube TV | …and more! |
Since there are no ExpressVPN servers in China for privacy reasons, you’ll need to connect to servers outside of the country. If these servers are too far away, this could lead to a noticeable drop in speeds. Fortunately, ExpressVPN has servers in nearby locations, including Hong Kong, Japan, and Taiwan.
Although ExpressVPN’s website is blocked in China, it’s possible to download the app if you’re already there. ExpressVPN’s email support responded to me in less than 30 minutes and provided me with a mirror link that works in the country — the address is support@expressvpn.zendesk.com.
The biggest downside is that ExpressVPN is a bit more expensive compared to other top VPNs. However, you can currently get a 49% discount with its 1-year + 3 months plan, bringing the monthly price down to $6.67.
It’s risk-free to try out ExpressVPN in China as you’re protected by a 30-day money-back guarantee, as well. If you find it doesn’t meet your needs, you can easily request a refund via email or over 24/7 live chat. When I tested the money-back guarantee myself, my request was approved immediately and the money returned to my account in 5 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.
ExpressVPN works on: Windows, Mac, Linux, Chromebook, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Nvidia Shield, Xiaomi Mi Box, Google Chromecast, Roku, Android TVs, smart TVs, routers, and more.
2024 Update! ExpressVPN has dropped prices for a limited time to a crazy $6.67 per month for the 1-year plan + 3 months free (you can save up to 49%)! This is a limited offer so be sure to grab it now before it's gone. See more information on this offer here.
2. PrivateVPN — Highly Affordable Yet Powerful VPN for China
Key Features:
- Stealth VPN feature activates obfuscation to bypass network-side VPN blocks
- Over 200 high-speed servers in 63 countries
- Connect 10 devices at the same time
- 24/7 customer support via email, live chat, and knowledge base
- 30-day money-back guarantee
PrivateVPN surprises by being not only great for accessing global content from China, but by doing so as one of the cheapest premium VPNs on the market. Starting at just $2.00/month with a 3-year plan, it offers plenty of value for money considering its varied feature set. In fact, it’s one of the top monthly VPNs available for this very reason.
With its Stealth VPN feature, you activate PrivateVPN’s obfuscation feature, helping avoid advanced deep packet inspection techniques (and generally hiding the fact that you’re using a VPN). This works really well in censorship-heavy countries, especially when coupled with PrivateVPN’s several other security features.
Some other security features include:
- AES 256-bit military-grade encryption — ensures your data remains safe and secure.
- Automatic kill switch — disconnects your internet if the VPN connection is lost.
- DNS and IP leak protection — prevents accidental data exposure.
- No-logs policy — ensures no traffic information is stored.
While during my speed tests, PrivateVPN dropped by an average of 66% compared to my baseline, this isn’t quite as bad as it sounds. Although a significant drop, my speeds were still over 80Mbps on average — well above what’s required for UHD streaming, fast downloads, and more than enough for basic browsing.
In fact, where PrivateVPN excels compared to many of its more expensive competitors is streaming. It’s able to reliably access numerous popular services, including:
| Netflix | Amazon Prime Video | Disney+ | Max | BBC iPlayer |
| Hulu | Showtime | ESPN | Hotstar | …and more! |
PrivateVPN is based in Sweden, a member of the 14 Eyes Alliance, which might give you pause for thought. However, Sweden doesn’t require VPNs to collect data, so you can trust that your information is secure. Additionally, PrivateVPN has a strict no-logs policy, although it hasn’t been independently audited.
In fact, by far PrivateVPN’s biggest downside is its lack of independent security audit. In a market that’s increasingly crowded with transparency between competitors, it stands out quite negatively when a premium option doesn’t get audited. On the other hand, you may find this a compromise worth making when you consider its budget pricing model.
If maintaining online security in China is your top priority, you can try PrivateVPN risk-free with its 30-day money-back guarantee. I put this to the test by emailing support, simply informing them I changed my mind on needing the service. They replied within 24 hours and swiftly processed the refund. I had the money back 5 days later.
PrivateVPN works on: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Raspberry Pi, Chrome, Firefox, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Roku, smart TVs, routers, and more.
2024 Update! PrivateVPN has dropped prices for a limited time to a crazy $2.00 per month with the 3-year plan (you can save up to %)! This is a limited offer so be sure to grab it now before it’s gone. See more information on this offer here.
3. VyprVPN — In-House Chameleon Protocol Reliably Bypasses Censors
Key Features:
- World-class security features including obfuscation, leak protection, and 256-bit encryption
- 700+ servers in 63 countries
- Connect up to 10 devices at the same time
- 24/7 customer support via email, live chat, and detailed FAQ page
- 30-day money-back guarantee
VyprVPN took the standard OpenVPN protocol and made modifications to ensure it can’t be detected as VPN traffic by advanced techniques like DPI. At the same time, it’s still highly efficient and fast. In turn, this means that China-based users can achieve high-performance connections to the rest of the world while bypassing censorship.
There’s plenty more that VyprVPN keeps you and your device safe with, including:
- AES 256-bit encryption — for data protection.
- Strict no-log policy — verified through third-party audits.
- Automatic kill switch — to safeguard your data in case of a connection drop.
- Smart IP — regularly rotates your IP address to make it near-impossible to track you.
Even though VyprVPN operates out of Europe, its Swiss headquarters place it beyond the 7/9/14 Eyes intelligence alliances jurisdictions, while Switzerland lacks any data retention laws specific to VPNs. When combined with its audited no-logs policy, VyprVPN looks set when it comes to securing user data and avoiding government overreach.
You can also reliably access multiple popular streaming services with VyprVPN, including:
| Netflix | Disney+ | HBO Max |
| Amazon Prime Video | Hulu | …and More! |
VyprVPN offers one of the most cost-effective options for a one-month subscription, while its long-term plan, at $3.00 per month, puts it just short of ExpressVPN. This is a strange mismatch and makes ExpressVPN all the more worth it when you consider how close they are in price as ExpressVPN’s value proposition is way stronger.
If you don’t want to commit right away, VyprVPN provides a 30-day money-back guarantee. I personally requested a refund via email (live chat is also available). Although the customer service agent asked for the reason for my cancellation, they quickly approved the refund following my reply. The money was back in my account 3 days later.
VyprVPN works on: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire TV, routers, and more.
Comparison Table: 2024’s Best VPNs for China
| Server Obfuscation | Servers Close to China | No-Logs Policy | Protocols for China | Lowest Monthly Price | Money-back guarantee | |
| ExpressVPN | ✔ Automatic |
Hong Kong, India, Japan, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, and Taiwan | ✔ | Lightway | $6.67 | 30 days |
| PrivateVPN | ✔ Stealth Mode |
Hong Kong, India, Japan, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, and Taiwan | ✔ | L2TP | $2.00 | 30 days |
| VyprVPN | ✔ Chameleon Protocol |
Hong Kong, India, Japan, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, and Taiwan | ✔ | Chameleon | $3.00 | 30 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.
How I Tested and Ranked the Best VPNs for China
Whether you’re a resident or a traveler, using a VPN can be a game-changer for your online experience while in China. However, not all VPNs are created equal. Here are some of the key factors to consider when choosing a VPN for China:
- Reliably bypasses the Great Firewall of China — is simply the first and foremost criterion for a VPN in China. This is generally only something done by top-tier premium VPNs due to the resources needed to be consistent at this.
- Security and privacy features — including server obfuscation, strong encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection. These features ensure that your online activities remain private and secure.
- Privacy policy — assuring you that no logs are stored. If it’s audited, it’s even better.
- Server locations — should be aplenty and spread across the globe. However, focus on VPNs that have servers in countries close to China, like Hong Kong, Japan, or Singapore, for faster and more reliable connections.
- Ease of use — in the form of a user-friendly interface, especially if you’re not tech-savvy. Look for VPNs that offer easy-to-navigate apps for all your devices, including mobile phones and tablets.
- Customer support — can be a lifesaver when you encounter issues. Since you won’t be able to access the VPN’s website directly while in China, ensure it has good email support (and note down the email before going there).
- Value for money — by finding a good balance between cost and features, and always take advantage of free trials or money-back guarantees to test the service first.
3 Easy Steps: How to Use a VPN in China
- Get a VPN that reliably works in China. Thanks to automatic obfuscation on all servers and an audited no-logs policy, I recommend ExpressVPN as the top VPN for China.
- Connect to a recommended server. Some servers will work better than others when in China, making it worth asking your VPN’s support to find out.
- Access the full web in China! Global content should once again be available to you.
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 in China
What VPNs work in China?
What countries does Proton VPN work in?
Is Proton Mail blocked in China?
Are VPNs illegal in China?
China has strict regulations that make it illegal for VPN services to operate without government approval. Unauthorized VPNs are often blocked, and companies caught providing VPNs without a license could face severe penalties. However, there hasn’t been a wide crackdown on individual users.
It’s essential to exercise caution and use a VPN that’s been proven to consistently work there if you choose to use one in China.
Why isn’t my VPN working in China?
If your VPN isn’t working in China, there could be several reasons for this. The Great Firewall of China is highly sophisticated and frequently updated to block VPN services. Here are some easy troubleshooting tips that could get you up and running again:
- Update your software — since outdated versions may not be equipped to bypass newer firewall settings.
- Change servers — since your current one might already be on a blacklist due to IP address associations.
- Change protocol — since some VPN protocols are more easily detected and blocked by the Great Firewall.
- Bandwidth throttling — is when your speeds are deliberately slowed down when using a VPN. If you experience this, try switching servers or protocols.
- Try a different VPN — since not all VPNs can bypass the Great Firewall. Make sure you’re using a VPN known for its ability to work in China.
If you’ve tried all these steps and still can’t connect, it’s advisable to contact your VPN’s customer support for specialized assistance.
Can I use a free VPN in China?
Most likely not. While there are some good free VPNs on the market, and the idea of using one in China may be tempting, it’s generally not recommended for several reasons:
- Limited capabilities — free VPNs often lack the technology to effectively bypass the Great Firewall.
- Security risks — free VPNs may not offer robust security features, putting your data and privacy at risk.
- Data logging — is a concern with some free VPNs, as they may log your activities, which is problematic when anonymity and privacy are required.
- Bandwidth restrictions — are common with free VPNs, making them unsuitable for tasks requiring high-speed internet.
Given these limitations and risks, it’s advisable to opt for a reputable, paid VPN service that is known for its ability to work in China.
Choose a VPN That Has Been Tested in China
The example of Proton VPN highlights the difficulties VPN providers face in order to reliably work in China. This underscores the importance of ensuring that any VPN you consider has undergone recent testing in China.
Furthermore, bear in mind to install your VPN prior to your arrival in China. Once you’re in the country and realize that your VPN isn’t functioning, your options for resolving the issue are quite limited.
ExpressVPN has been proven to work in China, using advanced techniques to bypass government blocks and secure your traffic. You can even try ExpressVPN 100% risk-free since you’re protected by its 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not fully satisfied, getting a refund is straightforward.
Summary — 3 Best VPNs That Still Work in China
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.
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