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Best-Free-VPN-for-China

Navigating China’s digital realm can be challenging due to the Great Firewall, which blocks access to many international websites and services. Using a VPN is a strategic solution to bypass these restrictions and connect to the World Wide Web. Yet, finding the best free VPN for China is complex, as many fail to meet the demands imposed by China’s stringent internet controls.

The limitations of free VPNs often include data restrictions, slow connections, and security risks, which can hinder their effectiveness against the Great Firewall. After thorough testing, I’ve pinpointed free VPN services that are capable of providing unrestricted internet access in China without compromising on security or speed.

However, given China’s strict internet policies, opting for a trustworthy paid VPN that offers a free trial or money-back guarantee is advisable for enhanced security. ExpressVPN, known for its strong encryption and sophisticated security features, is a top recommendation, ensuring complete privacy and protection online.


Quick Overview – Best Free VPN For China In March 2024

Below is a quick look at the top free VPN services for China this month, each offering unique features and benefits:

ExpressVPN – Best Free Trial VPN for China

Offering unbeatable performance, and obfuscated servers to hide your VPN use, ExpressVPN provides a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to use its services risk-free.

➔ Get 3 extra months FREE (49% off) on a 12-month plan today!

Windscribe – Free VPN for China with 10 GB of Free Data

Provides 15 GB of monthly data and is capable of unblocking streaming services, making it a robust choice for China.

Hotspot Shield – Free VPN for China For Fast Browsing

Offers 500 MB of daily data on its free version and uses a Hydra protocol for reliable speeds.

Urban VPN – 100% Free VPN for China

Completely free VPN with unlimited data, ideal for everyday use. Stands out for its 237 servers in China.

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Free VPN for China – Testing Methodology|FAQs 

Note: Be aware that using a VPN in China might violate local laws, which are strict for both residents and visitors. While there are no widespread reports of penalties for VPN use, caution is recommended. This guidance does not advocate for illegal VPN use. Ensure you understand and comply with local regulations.


Why Do You VPN Need for China?

A VPN is crucial for anyone residing in or looking to get a Chinese IP Address due to the country’s stringent internet restrictions. The Chinese government heavily censors the internet, known as the Great Firewall of China, limiting access to various Western media and platforms.

For instance, popular social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram are blocked, as are many news outlets and Google services. To circumvent these restrictions, a VPN is necessary.

It allows you to access restricted content by encrypting your internet connection and routing it through servers located outside of China. This way, you can enjoy unrestricted access to social media, keep up with international news, and use search engines freely.

Additionally, a VPN protects your online activities from being monitored and logged by ISPs, ensuring privacy and security in a country known for its surveillance. It’s also useful for accessing region-specific deals, maintaining contact via Western communication apps, and ensuring that your data remains secure and private while using public Wi-Fi networks.


5 Best Free VPNs for China in 2024 – [In-Depth Analysis]

After thorough research, I have found that while completely free VPNs that work in China are rare, there are a few that stand out for their security, speed, and reliability:

Here are the 5 best free VPNs for China in 2024, rigorously tested to guarantee connectivity and security:

1. ExpressVPN – Best Free Trial VPN for China

expressvpn-vpn-china-logo

  • Ultra-fast servers in 105 Countries
  • Excellent unblocking capability for Netflix, Hulu & more
  • Best-in-class encryption trusted security, and advanced protection features that block ads, trackers, and harmful sites.
  • Connect up to 8 devices simultaneously
  • 24/7 customer support through live chat
  • 30-day money-back guarantee

ExpressVPN is the best free trial VPN for China. It excels in reliably masking your actual IP address with a Chinese IP, granting seamless access to restricted content. Its unlimited bandwidth and powerful unblocking capabilities help make its free trial more competitive than most of its competitors.

Server Network

The thing I like best about ExpressVPN is its robust server network, boasting over 3000 servers in 105 countries including 2 servers in Hong Kong. The Hong Kong servers of ExpressVPN work in China to bypass the Great Firewall, for accessing geo-restricted streaming platforms and maintaining consistent connectivity.

expressvpn-hongkong-servers-nearby-china

Connect to ExpressVPN servers in Hong Kong if you want to unblock Chinese sites.

Server Performance

I’ve visited the majority of mainland China and ExpressVPN has worked for me in all the provinces of China, even in sensitive areas like Xinjiang, Xi’an, Beijing in the far west. ExpressVPN has even proven effective for me in remote areas of Sichuan and Yunnan provinces, and the outcomes were consistently impressive!

I utilize ExpressVPN to access YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, Instagram, Netflix, Gmail, and all other messaging apps that are blocked in China. You won’t find ExpressVPN or other popular VPN mobile apps on the Apple App Store in China. For Android users, The scenario is even more difficult, as the entire range of Android apps, not just VPN apps, isn’t accessible in China due to the ban on the Google Play Store.

During my tests, I was able to successfully unblock every Chinese or international service I tried with this Chinese VPN. ExpressVPN’s Hong Kong servers allowed me to unblock QQ music, and other Chinese-exclusive services like iQIYI, and WeChat.

expressvpn-unblock-qq-music-with-nearby-Hong-kong-servers

Using ExpressVPN’s servers helped me unblock QQ Music and many other geo-restricted sites.

Similarly, I had a great time accessing and unblocking international streaming services like Amazon, Disney+, HBO Max, and Netflix with ExpressVPN which were previously blocked in China.

ExpressVPN Speed Test

During my ExpressVPN speed test on a 100 Mbps connection, ExpressVPN delivered the quickest VPN service download speeds of 89.38 Mbps. These are among some of the fastest VPN service speeds I have ever measured.

expressvpn-speed-test-for-china

ExpressVPN offers fast download and upload speeds for buffer-free streaming.

Security and Privacy Measures

ExpressVPN employs AES-256 encryption, Lightway protocol, TrustedServer Technology, Threat Manager, DNS leak protection, builtin obfuscation, and IP leak protection. This level of security has rightly earned it the title of the best VPN for China a country known for its surveillance and monitoring practices.

Devices Compatibility

ExpressVPN has great compatibility with all popular software, including Windows, Linux, iOS, Android, and macOS. If you want to use ExpressVPN on other devices, the MediaStreamer tool can be used to configure any device, even those without dedicated VPN software. Through this feature, you can effortlessly set up ExpressVPN on Apple TV, smart TV, and other devices from within or outside of China.

Free Trial and Pricing

While ExpressVPN isn’t free, you can try out this dependable VPN for China free of charge through the ExpressVPN free trial on your mobile device. It also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, making it a risk-free option for users in China.

Exclusive Deal

VPNRanks readers can enjoy a special ExpressVPN offer! Grab the best VPN for streaming services at $6.67/mo - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free. All plans are covered by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

For more information related to this VPN service, please refer to my ExpressVPN Review.

Pros
  • Escape censorship and pass through the Chinese Great Firewall
  • Doesn’t retain your IP address, browsing history, traffic destinations, or metadata
  • Easily access blocked streaming and social media sites in China
  • Blazing-fast speeds with Lightway protocol
  • Cryptocurrency payment options are available
  • 30-day money-back guarantee

Cons
  • Does not offer a free version


 

2. Windscribe – Free VPN for China with 10 GB of Free Data

Windscribe-logo

  • Strong Encryption Protocols
  • Free Version Offered
  • 3 Days Money Back Guarantee
  • 50 Server Locations (11 in Free Version)
  • Accepts Bitcoin Payments
  • Offers OpenVPN encryption

Windscribe is a free VPN for China with 15GB monthly bandwidth. It stands out as a great free VPN china due to its free allowance of 15 GB/month, 11 free server locations, and unlimited device connections.

Server Network

It has 480 servers in 60+ countries including 2 servers in Hong Kong. However, using the Windscribe free version, you can only access 11 server locations – UK, Hong Kong, USA, Canada, Netherlands, Germany, France, Norway, and Switzerland.

windscribe-nearby-hong-kong-server

windscribe-hk-server

So does Windscribe work in China? Yes, with a Windscribe Hong Kong server you can connect this free vpn from China to anyhere in the world, which makes it a strong free VPN working in China. What made me using Windscribe in China experience even better is that I used windscribe’s free Hong Kong servers while I was in the Chinese mainland.

I was also able to access BBC iPlayer, using its free UK servers within China, and enjoyed it without compromising my security or privacy. That is why it is the best free VPN for BBC iPlayer,

windscribe-unblocked-bbc-iplayer-in-China

I was able to unblock BBC iPlayer in China easily with Windscribe.

Speed

During my Windscribe speed tests, I recorded an average download speed of 65.21 Mbps and an upload speed of 34.75 Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection, which is pretty good.

windscribe-speed-test-in-china

Windscribe has delivered a decent speed on its US servers in China.

Security and Privacy Measures

The thing that makes Windscribe stand out as one of the best free VPNs for China is its commitment to security. It boasts top-notch features including 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, a strict no-logs policy, and an integrated ad blocker.

Windscribe also has an amazing feature called ROBERT which is a server-side domain and IP blocking tool, to protect against malware. Best of all, it supports port forwarding, which can be a useful feature for downloading torrents.

Devices Compatibility

I was able to use Windscribe through its dedicated apps on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. It also offers China VPN extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Opera browsers. You can even set up Windscribe on Roku, routers, Kodi, and Firestick. Devices like Nvidia Shield and NAS are also supported.

Free Version Bandwidth

The Windscribe free trial version lets you access servers in 10 locations worldwide, but if you want to access the whole offering, you can do so via its Pro version. If you subscribe but feel it is not the right fit, you can cancel your Windscribe subscription within the 3-day trial period to get a refund easily.

Please refer to my comprehensive Windscribe review for more details about this provider.

Pros
  • No requirement for card details and maintains a private logging policy.
  • Offers various obfuscation protocols across all applications.
  • Includes a dependable kill switch.
  • Recognized as a reliable free VPN working in China

Cons
  • Limited to a 10GB data allowance.
  • Lacks an independent no-logs audit.
  • Operates from Canada, a member of the Five-Eyes intelligence alliance.


3. Hotspot Shield – Free VPN for China For Fast Browsing

Hotspot-Shield-free-vpn china

  • Freemium Service
  • 45 Days Money Back Guarantee
  • Kill Switch & Split Tunneling
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility
  • Works with Netflix
  • Supports Torrenting

Hotspot Shield is a free VPN for China for fast browsing. It provides significantly faster speeds compared to many other free VPNs I have tested. This combined with its 500 MB daily data allowance makes it a convenient choice for short-term browsing and accessing blocked social media platforms.

Server Network

Hotspot Shield, with its expansive network of over 1800 servers across more than 80 countries, I recommend choosing Hotspot Shield a good free VPN China, whose free version works well in China, providing unlimited bandwidth. This plan includes access to servers in more than 5 countries, featuring locations in Singapore, conveniently near China.

Stands out as a potent solution for users aiming to bypass the Great Firewall. This extensive coverage ensures that users in China can leverage Hotspot Shield as a “free VPN used in China” to navigate around internet restrictions effectively.

hotspot-shield-free-vpn-for-china

Hotspot Shield offers 1 server in China

Its free plan gave only 5 server options – Auto, Los Angeles, New York, Singapore, and London. During my tests, I was able to unblock streaming services like YouTube, Netflix, Hulu, with Hotspot Shield free Los Angeles Server.

hotspot-shield-unblocks-hulu-in-china

You can unblock US-based streaming services using this free VPN in China.

That said, while I was able to unblock these sites with Hotspot Shield, its bandwidth constraints blocked me from fully utilizing its capabilities. Another limitation is that Hotspot Shield monetizes its free VPN with ads, so you’ll be getting annoying ads and pop-ups every minute or so, which becomes very annoying.

Speed

Nonetheless, Hotspot Shield is still one of the best VPN to China freely available for use without a paywall. During my Hotspot Shield speed tests, it outperformed some other VPNs I tested, with average download and upload speeds of 50 Mbps and 35.62 Mbps, respectively.

hotspot-shield-speed-test-for-china

Hotspot Shield offers fast download and upload speeds for buffer-free streaming.

Devices Compatibility

Hotspot Shield is compatible with devices like Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS, making it the best free VPN in China for iPhones. Similarly, the service also provides dedicated browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox as well.

However, you can use Hotspot Shield on your Linux devices through the Chrome extension. To my surprise, the provider does not support routers at the moment.

Security & Privacy Measures

In terms of security, this Chinese VPN employs military-grade encryption, DNS leak protection, and a strict no-logs policy, ensuring your online activities remain private. The automatic kill switch and Catapult Hydra Protocol are an added layer of protection, safeguarding your data in case the VPN connection drops.

Free Version Bandwidth

The free version of this VPN China freely offers 500 MB of data per day. For users requiring more data and advanced features, Hotspot Shield’s premium plans start at a competitive price, offering unlimited data and access to all its servers.

You can learn more about this service in my Hotspot Shield review.

Pros
  • No registration is required
  • Brilliant speeds
  • A VPN China server free
  • Unblock US Netflix on its free US server

Cons
  •  Customer support can be a bit unreliable.
  • Limited free server locations


4. UrbanVPN – 100% Free VPN for China

UrbanVPN-logo

  • Unlimited Free Data
  • Multiple servers in 81 locations
  • Works with US Netflix
  • Unlimited simultaneous connection
  • P2P style network
  • Keeps user logs (IP address, browsing history)

UrbanVPN is a 100% free VPN for China thanks to its largest server options in China for free with premium security features like 256-bit encryption and DNS/IPv6 leak protection.

Server Network and Performance

Boasting a network of 4000+ servers across 81 countries, including 237 China server locations, it’s a reliable free VPN to connect to China. This positions it as the best free VPN to use in China, enabling users to obtain a free China IP address and successfully bypass the Great Firewall of China (GFW) to access geo-restricted content.

urbanvpn-works-in-china

UrbanVPN has the largest server network in China

I was able to unblock Netflix using UrbanVPN, but only the US library. It is still a solid option for a free VPN China server, even though it is less effective than the other VPNs in unblocking other services and apps.

urbanvpn-unblocks-us-netflix-in-china

Unblocked US Netflix in China with UrbanVPN’s US server.

Speed

Overall, this VPN to China freely provides a respectable level of service, although it falls short of the two other VPNs in terms of speed. Although there are a few sporadic connection drops, it is not a serious issue.

In terms of speed, UrbanVPN delivers a respectable performance. My UrbanVPN speed test results indicate download speeds reaching up to 30 Mbps and upload rates often exceeding 26 Mbps. While there are occasional connection drops, they are not frequent enough to be a significant concern.

urbanvpn-speed-for-china

Urbanvpn offers fast download and upload speeds for buffer-free streaming.

Security & Privacy Measures

UrbanVPN doesn’t skimp on security despite being a free service. It offers standard AES256 encryption and a commendable no-logs policy. The inclusion of a kill switch feature enhances its security credentials. Additionally, UrbanVPN supports P2P torrenting and provides 24/7 live chat support, adding to its user-friendly appeal.

Devices Compatibility

UrbanVPN’s compatibility stands out, supporting devices across Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS platforms. With the free version offering unlimited simultaneous connections, UrbanVPN emerges as a free VPN for PC in China, providing versatile options for a broad spectrum of users.

Free Version Bandwidth

UrbanVPN stands out as a China VPN freely offering services, providing unlimited data usage without any hidden costs. This makes it an attractive option for users who need a VPN solution in China without any financial commitment.

You can learn more about this service in my Urban VPN review.

Pros
  • No registration is required
  • 100% free VPN with China servers
  • Unlimited bandwidth

Cons
  • Connection drops sometimes.


Quick Comparison Table: Free China VPN Features

When considering a VPN for China, features like obfuscation, speed, data allowance, and server locations are crucial. Here’s a quick comparison of the top free VPNs available:

VPNs ExpressVPN-VPN-China windscribe-1 hotspot-shield-logo-free UrbanVPN-free-VPN-in-China
Rank for China 1 3 4 5
Free Servers 3000+ servers 11 5 over 500 free VPN servers
Servers in China 2 servers in Hong Kong 1 server in Hong Kong 1 virtual server in Singapore (nearby China) 237 servers in China
Obfuscation Feature Yes Yes No Yes
Encryption & Protocols AES-256 encryption AES-256 encryption AES-256 encryption AES-256 encryption
Device Connections 8 Unlimited 5 Unlimited
No Logs Policy Strict No Logs Policy Keeps Minimal Logs Strict No Logs Policy Strict No Logs Policy
Streaming Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, Disney Plus Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, Disney Plus Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, Disney Plus Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, Disney Plus
Avg Speed 89.42 Mbps download speed The average speed of 65.21 50 Download Speed 29.58 Mbps download/25.91 Mbps upload speed
Free VPN No Yes Yes Yes

How to Find the Best Free VPN for China? [Testing Methodology]

Selecting the best free VPNs for China involves a thorough understanding of several criteria to ensure effectiveness in bypassing the Great Firewall and maintaining privacy and security.

When ranking and testing free VPNs for use in China, I used the following criteria to ensure safety and effectiveness in bypassing the Great Firewall:

Must Work in China:

The ideal VPN should have servers in nearby countries like Hong Kong, Singapore and Taiwan which are not affected by the Great Firewall. While completely free VPNs that work in China are rare, the ones I selected guarantee connectivity and security.

Access to a Diverse Server Network

A comprehensive server network is fundamental to a VPN’s ability to provide access to geo-restricted content. While free VPNs typically offer a limited selection of server locations, look for the best free VPNs for China that provide servers in countries close to China, such as Hong Kong, Japan, or Singapore.

Obfuscation to avoid detection by the Firewall

Obfuscation technology, also known as Stealth Mode, is particularly important in reducing concerns about Deep Packet Inspections (DPIs). It disguises your VPN traffic as regular internet activity, making it more difficult for censorship technologies to detect and block your VPN connection.

Robust Security Features

When considering a free VPN for use in China, it’s crucial to look for services that offer strong encryption and advanced security features. The VPN should at least provide a strong kill switch, IP and DNS leak protection, and AES-256 encryption. Additional features like malware blockers or MultiHop are beneficial.

Privacy

A reliable free VPN must not log or sell your data to third parties and should offer protection against government surveillance. Ideally, it should be based outside the Fourteen Eyes surveillance alliance.

Lower Data Caps

For a smooth online experience, you need a VPN that does not throttle speeds or impose data caps. This is especially important in a country like China, where international bandwidth is limited, and VPNs can sometimes be your only gateway to high-speed global internet.

User-Friendly Experience

A VPN for China should also be easy to set up and use, with customer support available to assist with any technical issues. While 24/7 live chat is ideal, at a minimum, the VPN should offer a reliable email support system or a detailed FAQ section to address common questions.


What is Blocked in China?

In China, a significant number of Western websites, applications, and services are blocked or restricted. This censorship is part of a larger strategy known as the Great Firewall of China to control and regulate internet use in the country.

The Great Firewall’s purpose is to prevent the spread of information that the government deems sensitive or harmful to its policies and image.

The Extent of Internet Censorship in China

The restrictions cover various categories of content, from news and media websites to social media platforms and even search engines. Here’s a closer look at the content that’s typically inaccessible within mainland China:

  • Social Media: Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Snapchat are blocked, preventing users from sharing or accessing content freely.
  • Search Engines: Services such as Google and its associated applications, including Gmail and Google Maps, are unavailable.
  • News Outlets: International news websites like BBC, CNN, and The New York Times are typically blocked, restricting access to a global perspective on news.
  • Streaming Services: Entertainment platforms such as Netflix, YouTube, Spotify, and Hulu can’t be accessed without a VPN.
  • Messaging Apps: Communication tools like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Facebook Messenger are also blocked, limiting real-time communication with the outside world.

Bypassing the Blocks with a VPN

VPN is the most common and effective tool for bypassing these restrictions. By using a VPN, you can encrypt your internet connection and, make it appear as though accessing the internet from a different location where these services are not restricted. This allows you to overcome the limitations imposed by the Great Firewall and use the internet freely.


Tips for Using a Free VPN in China

To optimize your experience with a free VPN in China, it’s crucial to employ practical measures across various devices:

  1. Pre-Download Before Arrival: Install VPNs before entering China, as many services become inaccessible. Additionally, China blocks the Play Store, App Store, and Google search engine, so you won’t be able to download any VPN app there.
  2. Keep Multiple VPN Options: Equip your device with alternative VPNs to navigate potential service fluctuations. So, in case of any censorship, you must have a backup free VPN if you intend to reside in China or travel there frequently.
  3. Enable Obfuscation Tools: Activate obfuscation or Stealth modes to prevent detection by the Great Firewall.
  4. Switch Servers for Accessibility: Change servers for better access and speeds. It’s a good idea to connect to servers in nearby countries like Korea, Japan, and Hong Kong when using a free VPN to China IP.
  5. Stay Informed on VPN Updates: Keep in touch with your VPN provider and online communities for the latest functional VPNs.
  6. Test VPNs Before Your Trip: Ensure your VPN works and acquaint yourself with its features beforehand.
  7. Choose Nearest Servers: The speed of a server increases with proximity to its location. So connect to nearby servers for a stable and faster connection.
  8. Regularly Update Your VPN: Maintain the latest version for up-to-date security and features. A VPN that updates its server IPs and uses obfuscation and alternative ports is more likely to succeed in providing access to the free internet.
  9. Respect Local Laws: It’s important to note that in China, only government-approved VPNs are considered legal. So, you can use a VPN in China freely, provided that ensures adherence to China’s legal framework.

How to Use Free VPN on Different Devices in China?

To use a free VPN on various devices in China, including Android, iPhone, or Windows, you’ll need a service that is both reliable for accessing restricted content and compatible with multiple devices for optimal convenience.

I have included these detailed guides to help you use a free VPN on different devices in China:

How to Install Best Free VPN for Android in China?

To install the Best free VPN for Android in China, follow these steps:

  1. Select a dependable free trial VPN suitable for China. A recommended option is ExpressVPN, currently available with a significant discount.
  2. Download and install the VPN application on your Android device.
  3. Connect to a nearby server, such as one in Hong Kong.
  4. Enjoy unrestricted browsing in China on your mobile or tablet.

How to Install Best Free VPN for iPhone in China?

To install the best free VPN for iPhone in China, follow these instructions:

  1. Choose a reliable free trial VPN for China. ExpressVPN, offering a 49% discount, is a top choice.
  2. Download and install the chosen VPN app on your iPhone or iPad.
  3. Connect to a server in a nearby location, like Taiwan.
  4. You’re all set! Now you can navigate around the Great Firewall of China with ease.

How to Install Best Free VPN for Chrome in China?

To install the best free VPN for Chrome in China, here’s what you need to do:

  1. Choose a strong Chinese free VPN. ExpressVPN, which is currently offering a substantial discount, is a good recommendation.
  2. Download the China free VPN extension for Chrome from the Chrome Web Store.
  3. Activate the extension and select a nearby server, like one in Japan.
  4. Your internet traffic is now secure and protected.

Is It Safe to Use Free VPNs in China?

When it comes to the safety of using free VPNs in China, there are considerable doubts. In a country known for its extensive monitoring of the internet, using a non-reputable VPN could expose your data to ISPs or even lead to it being sold to third parties.

To maintain online safety, it’s imperative to select a VPN that offers advanced security features, such as military-grade encryption, DNS leak protection, and a reliable kill switch. These features ensure your data remains secure even if the VPN connection drops.


Risks & Disadvantages of Using a Free VPN in China

Using a free VPN in China can be fraught with risks and disadvantages that could jeopardize both your internet experience and your security.

  • Limited Security Features: Free VPNs typically do not offer the same level of security as their paid counterparts. They often lack strong encryption protocols and essential protections like a kill switch, which are crucial in a high-surveillance country like China.
  • Privacy Concerns: Many free VPN providers may resort to selling your browsing data to third parties as a way to generate revenue, which compromises the privacy you’re trying to protect.
  • Data Caps: Furthermore, these services may impose data usage restrictions, limiting your ability to stream, download, or browse extensively.
  • Server limitations: It is another critical issue, as free VPNs offer fewer server options and can be overcrowded, leading to slow speeds and unreliable connections.
  • Lack of Obfuscation Technology: In terms of functionality, free VPNs may not bypass the sophisticated censorship measures employed by the Great Firewall of China. They often lack advanced features like obfuscation technology, making them easy targets for detection and blocking. This not only restricts access but potentially puts users at risk of legal consequences.

Given these concerns, it’s essential to weigh the potential risks against the need for robust online security and privacy when considering a free VPN in China. It’s worth investing in a reputable paid VPN service that can provide the necessary features and reliability for a safer and more open internet experience.


How Does China Block Free VPNs?

China’s approach to internet censorship is complex and sophisticated, utilizing a range of techniques to block free VPNs and restrict global internet access. At the forefront of these methods is. The government identifies and blocks the IP addresses of VPN servers from various providers, which is the primary technique for VPN restriction in China. In order to overcome this problem, free VPNs must frequently update their server IPs.


What to Do If Your Free VPN Is Not Working in China

If you’re encountering issues with your free VPN in China, there are several steps you can take:

  1. Check your vpn settings: Ensure the functionality of your selected VPN server. If you have internet access but encounter difficulties connecting to your desired VPN server, it may be due to server overload or technical issues.
  2. Check the VPN status Page: Nevertheless, given that VPN websites are restricted in China, the webpage itself will probably be blocked too.
  3. Switch vpn protocols: You can usually try manually changing the VPN protocol. The protocol will likely be set to Automatic, so try the other protocols to establish a secure VPN connection.
  4. Try Connecting Different DNS Servers: Attempt using an alternate DNS server. If your VPN’s DNS server encounters issues, experimenting with a different one is advisable.
  5. Stop firewall from blocking vpn: To prevent the firewall from blocking VPNs, use obfuscated servers or protocols that disguise VPN traffic, or employ a VPN with stealth technology designed to bypass deep packet inspection.

Top Free VPNs: Not Included in My Recommendations – Here’s Why

In the search for the best free VPN for China, it’s worth noting which popular VPN brands didn’t make it onto the list and why they may not be the ideal choice for your needs in China.

IPVanish

IPVanish is a well-known VPN service that offers unlimited connections and robust speeds suitable for torrenting and gaming. However, it cannot reliably bypass China’s internet restrictions, making it less suitable for users within the country.

NordVPN

NordVPN is another top contender in the VPN market, known for its user-friendly interface and comprehensive security features. Although it has a strong no-logs policy and is generally considered secure, NordVPN does not consistently work within China, which is a key consideration for users in that region.

TunnelBear

This VPN is recognized for its server network and impressive security credentials. Despite these advantages, TunnelBear falls short because it doesn’t offer reliable service in China. Users looking for a dependable connection within China would need to consider other options.


Free VPNs to Avoid in China

When searching for a free VPN that works in China, it’s essential to know which services to avoid due to security risks, privacy concerns, and their potential inability to bypass the Great Firewall effectively.

Certain free VPNs have been known to engage in practices that could jeopardize your online privacy and security, such as tracking user data or containing malware.

Free VPN Providers Why I did not include them in my list of the best free VPNs for China
Hide Me Hide.me VPN is considered safe, but its free version has data limits and fewer servers, leading to slower speeds. The paid version offers more features but the free version isn’t ideal for fast, stable connections. Learn more in my Hide.me Review.
Astrill VPN Astrill VPN, aiming to bypass global censorship, supports various protocols, including OpenVPN. However, relying on OpenVPN in China is not advisable due to detectability under DPI, making it less suitable for use in the country. Learn more in my Astrill VPN Review.
PrivateVPN Private VPN is a solid service but not ideal for China. With limited servers prone to overloading, lack of split tunneling, and no native WireGuard support, it requires manual setup and VPN toggling for incompatible apps. Learn more in my Private VPN Review.

Other Best Free VPN Country Guides By VPNRanks:

In case you’re visiting another country, here are a few free VPN guides for other countries:

Best Free VPN for Argentina Experience Argentina’s Internet Without Limits
Best Free VPN for Pakistan Secure, Free Browsing Across Pakistan
Best Free VPN for the Philippines Unlock the Philippines’ Digital World Safely
Best Free VPN for Russia Navigate Russia’s Web Space Freely and Securely
Best Free VPN for South Africa Explore the Rainbow Nation’s Online Realm with Security
Best Free VPN Turkey Explore the and bypass internet censorship in Turkey

FAQs – Best Free VPN for China

The best free VPN for China, according to my research, is ExpressVPN. It efficiently bypasses the Great Firewall of China quickly, offers high speeds (89.42 Mbps), and has numerous servers in Hong Kong and neighboring countries, ensuring reliable and unrestricted internet access.

Most free services are not dependable and may fail to operate in China. Some might even jeopardize your devices and data security.

ExpressVPN lacks physical servers within mainland China, but it does maintain servers in Hong Kong and Macau, both of which are not subject to the Great Firewall. However, the Chinese government does monitor certain internet traffic and restrict access to some websites in Hong Kong and Macau.

Yes, using a VPN in China is legal, but only if the VPN complies with government requirements. Unsanctioned VPNs are banned, and while Chinese citizens face a higher risk of penalties for using these, foreigners are less likely to be charged.

Possibly, but free VPNs generally do not perform well for streaming in China. Although some recommended free VPNs claim to function in China, they cannot guarantee 100% uptime with streaming sites.

  • ExpressVPN — Top VPN Service for China Overall in 2024.
  • Hotspot Shield — Premier No-Cost VPN for China in 2024
  • Hide.me — Protected No-Cost China VPN Offering Limitless Bandwidth
  • Windscribe — Protected No-Cost China VPN Tailored for Streaming
  • TunnelBear — Effective No-Cost China VPN for Novices

No, I advise against using most free VPNs to bypass internet censorship in China. The primary reason is that they often fail to circumvent Chinese censorship effectively because they do not frequently update their server IP addresses, making it easy for the government to detect and block them via the Great Firewall.


Final Thoughts

Although the choices for a VPN with China server free are somewhat restricted, the best free VPN for China I’ve recommended offers a balanced mix of security, speed, and simplicity. Given the dynamic nature of China’s internet restrictions, keeping a backup VPN ready is wise in case your primary option faces difficulties.

Investing in a reputable VPN service is the most reliable to ensure uninterrupted access to content and maintain secure communications. That’s why I recommend the best free trial VPN available – ExpressVPN. It effortlessly navigates through the Great Firewall of China and offers advanced features.

Have you tried the best free VPN for China? Which one did you use? I’m curious to hear your experiences in the comments!