Best VPNs for China 2025 - Actually Tested & Working
Posted on December 8, 2025 by CSK Team
Most VPN "best of" lists are garbage. They recommend VPNs that haven't worked in China for years. We actually test VPNs from inside China every month. Here's what really works in 2025.
Legal Disclaimer: Using VPNs in China exists in a legal gray area. While millions use them daily, technically only government-approved VPNs are legal. Use at your own risk.
Our Testing Methodology
We test VPNs monthly from multiple Chinese cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen) using:
- Multiple ISPs (China Mobile, China Unicom, China Telecom)
- Both WiFi and mobile data
- Different times of day (censorship is stricter during sensitive periods)
Top 5 VPNs That Actually Work (December 2025)
1. ExpressVPN - Best Overall ⭐
Success Rate: 95% - Fastest speeds, most reliable connection
- ✅ Consistently works during sensitive periods
- ✅ Fast speeds for streaming
- ✅ Easy-to-use apps
- ❌ Most expensive option ($12.95/month)
2. Astrill VPN - Best for Long-term Expats
Success Rate: 90% - Most popular among China expats
- ✅ StealthVPN protocol designed for China
- ✅ Very reliable during crackdowns
- ✅ Good customer support
- ❌ Interface is dated
3. NordVPN - Best Value
Success Rate: 80% - Good balance of price and performance
- ✅ Obfuscated servers work well
- ✅ Affordable ($3.99/month on 2-year plan)
- ✅ Large server network
- ❌ Can be slow during peak times
4. Surfshark - Budget Pick
Success Rate: 75% - Cheapest option that still works
- ✅ Very affordable ($2.49/month)
- ✅ Unlimited devices
- ✅ NoBorders mode for China
- ❌ Less reliable than premium options
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5. VyprVPN - Chameleon Protocol
Success Rate: 70% - Good backup option
- ✅ Chameleon protocol defeats deep packet inspection
- ✅ Owns all servers (no third parties)
- ❌ Speeds can be inconsistent
VPNs That DON'T Work in China
Don't waste your money on these - they haven't worked reliably in years:
- ❌ CyberGhost
- ❌ IPVanish
- ❌ Private Internet Access (PIA)
- ❌ TunnelBear
- ❌ Hotspot Shield
- ❌ Most free VPNs
Critical: Download BEFORE You Arrive
VPN websites are blocked in China!
You must download and set up your VPN before landing. If you forget:
- Try your hotel WiFi - some international hotels have unblocked internet
- Ask someone outside China to email you the app file
- Some VPNs have mirror sites that work (check their support page)
Pro Tips for Using VPNs in China
- Try multiple servers - If one doesn't work, try another location
- Use obfuscation - Enable stealth/obfuscated mode in settings
- Switch protocols - If OpenVPN fails, try IKEv2 or proprietary protocols
- Have a backup - Subscribe to 2 VPNs in case one goes down
- Mobile data sometimes works better - Try switching from WiFi
When VPNs Get Blocked
China intensifies VPN blocks during:
- Communist Party meetings
- Tiananmen anniversary (June)
- National Day (October)
- Major political events
During these periods, even the best VPNs may struggle. Have patience and try different servers.
Check What's Blocked
Use our free Firewall Checker tool to see which apps and websites work in China before you go.
Related Guides
- China SIM Card Guide - Stay connected
- WeChat Pay Setup - Pay without cash
- What to Pack for China - Don't forget your VPN!
Last updated: December 2025 | We test VPNs monthly from inside China
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