⚡Need a quick answer? Here is the best free VPN for China in 2025:
With my years of experience, I find ExpressVPN the most reliable choice for navigating the Great Firewall. Its 30-day money-back guarantee lets you try it risk-free, which is ideal for trips to China. Enjoy advanced obfuscation, top-notch security, 24/7 support, and lightning-fast speeds across 105 countries.
China has over 1 billion internet users facing strict censorship, which is more than 20% of the global internet user base as per Worldometer, secure access to global sites like Google and YouTube is hard to come by.
Having traveled to China myself, I know how hard it is to find a reliable free VPN China there. Many lack strong encryption, have slow speeds, or come with restrictive data caps. After extensive testing, I’ve shortlisted the best free VPN services offering solid security, decent speeds, and user-friendly apps. If you want the most secure experience, I still recommend ExpressVPN as the most dependable option.
Which is the Best Free VPN for China in 2025? [Works 100%!]
Individuals in China or those planning to visit will need a robust VPN to access the stringent internet restrictions known as the Great Firewall. A quick analysis of the best free VPN for China includes:
⚠️Note: VPNs operate in a legal gray area in China, with legality often depending on whether you’re a tourist or a resident. Personally, I’ve used VPNs during my visits, as I have many expat friends, without any issues.
Quick Comparison Table: Free China VPN Features
Features like obfuscation, speed, data allowance, and server locations are crucial when considering a VPN China for free use. Here’s a quick comparison of the top free VPNs available:
| VPNs | ExpressVPN | Hotspot Shield | Hide.me | UrbanVPN | Windscribe | AstrillVPN |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Free Trial or Free Plan | 30-day Money-back Guarantee | Free Plan Available | Free Plan Available | Free Plan Available | Free Plan Available | 7-day Free Trial but no Money-back Guarantee |
| Server Locations of Free Trial or Free Plan | 105 countries | US only | 5 countries | 80+ countries | 10+ countries | 58 countries (paid only) |
| Servers in China or nearby countries | Hong Kong, Japan | Nearby servers | Singapore (nearby) | Limited coverage | Hong Kong, Japan | Hong Kong |
| Bandwidth | Unlimited | 500MB/day | 10GB/month | Unlimited | 10GB/month | Unlimited |
| Speed Performance | High | Moderate | Moderate | Low to Moderate | Moderate | High |
| Average Speed Loss | <20% | <50% | <40% | Varies | <30% | <30% |
| Obfuscation Feature | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| P2P Supports Feature | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Encryption & Protocols | AES-256, OpenVPN, Lightway | AES-128 (Free) | AES-256, OpenVPN | AES-128 | AES-256, IKEv2 | AES-256, OpenWeb, Stealth |
| Device Connections | 8 | 1 (Free), 5 (Paid) | 1 (Free), 10 (Paid) | 1 | Unlimited | 5 |
| No Logs Policy | ✅ | Minimal Logs (Free) | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
I’ve provided an in-depth analysis below to help you understand how these free VPNs bypass China’s restrictions and protect your privacy.
How I Selected the Best Free VPN for China in 2025? [Testing Methodology]
When ranking and testing free VPNs for use in China, I used the following criteria to ensure safety and effectiveness in accessing the Great Firewall:
- 🌐 Reliable Connectivity: VPNs must work in China, with servers in nearby regions like Hong Kong or Japan using obfuscation and IP refresh to bypass the Great Firewall.
- 🗺️ Nearby Servers: Servers in locations like Taiwan and Hong Kong ensure better speeds and reliable connectivity due to limited international bandwidth.
- 🔒 Obfuscation Technology: Automatic obfuscation prevents detection by China’s Deep Packet Inspection, ensuring uninterrupted access.
- 🛡️ Strong Security: Features like AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, and DNS/IP leak protection safeguard privacy from government monitoring.
- 🔍 Privacy & Jurisdiction: A no-logs policy and offshore jurisdiction enhance privacy, which is crucial in China’s restrictive environment.
- 🚀 Speed & Performance: Protocols like WireGuard or Lightway deliver low latency and consistent speeds on international connections.
- 📈 Generous Data: VPNs offering 10 GB+ monthly or unlimited data support high-use activities like streaming and downloads.
- 🛠️ Ease of Use: Simple setup and responsive support ensure smooth troubleshooting for users in China.
To ensure uninterrupted access in China, these VPN features are essential for bypassing restrictions and maintaining privacy. If you face issues, explore our tips if the VPN not working to troubleshoot and restore connectivity seamlessly.
6 Best Free VPNs for China in 2025 [In-Depth Analysis]
After thorough research on what VPN works free in China, 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, and will answer your queries related to what is the best 100% free VPN in China:
VPNScore
10.0
ExpressVPN - Best Free Trial VPN for China
Price
$4.99/mo
Servers
3,000+
Latest Tests
Yes
Jurisdiction
British Virgin Islands
ExpressVPN is the best free trial VPN for China. With its powerful unblocking capabilities and 30-day money-back guarantee, it’s the perfect VPN to use risk-free during short stays or to ensure a fast, secure connection to the global web.
Server Network
With servers in 105 countries and nearby options in Hong Kong, Japan, and Taiwan, ExpressVPN maintains an extensive, dynamic server network ideal for bypassing China’s restrictions. The Hong Kong servers of ExpressVPN works in China to access the Great Firewall for accessing geo-restricted streaming platforms and maintaining consistent connectivity.
Connect to ExpressVPN servers in Hong Kong to unblock Chinese sites.
Performance
If you’re looking to know What are the best alternatives to free VPNs for accessing the internet in China?” Then ExpressVPN is the answer. Along with its free trial, I was able to successfully unblock every Chinese or international service I tried with this Chinese VPN free during my tests.
ExpressVPN’s Hong Kong servers allowed me to access QQ music and other Chinese-exclusive services like iQIYI, and WeChat. In my opinion, only a high-quality VPN can unblock sites in China. Based on my testing experience, I highly recommend it for its effectiveness and reliability.
Using ExpressVPN’s servers helped me unblock QQ Music and many other geo-restricted sites.
Also, it’s compatible with more than 100 streaming platforms, such as Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video, supports torrenting across all servers, and features user-friendly apps for desktop, mobile, and smart TV devices.
ExpressVPN Speed Test
ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol powers incredible speeds, even under heavy encryption, making it one of the fastest VPNs available. In ExpressVPN speed test on a 100 Mbps connection, it clocked in at 89.38 Mbps, ensuring buffer-free streaming and fast browsing.
ExpressVPN offers fast download and upload speeds for buffer-free streaming.
Security and Privacy Measures
I recommend this VPN for its enhanced streaming capabilities and robust security features. It upholds a strict no-logs policy, uses AES 256-bit encryption, and includes a kill switch for uninterrupted security. A recent KMPG audit confirmed ExpressVPN’s no-log policy and TrustedServer technology, highlighting their dedication to privacy and transparency.
Devices Compatibility
ExpressVPN works on all major platforms (Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux), and its MediaStreamer feature allows VPN use on devices without native support, with this feature, you can set up ExpressVPN on Apple TV and other devices. While VPN apps aren’t available on app stores in China, ExpressVPN offers alternative APK downloads and 24/7 support for easy setup.
Free Trial and Pricing
ExpressVPN isn’t free, but its 30-day money-back guarantee lets you test it at no cost on mobile devices, making it an excellent risk-free choice. Plans start affordably and include access to the full range of servers and premium features.
Exclusive Deal
VPNRanks readers get an exclusive discount on ExpressVPN! Take advantage of the current $4.99/mo - Save 61% With Exclusive 2-Year Plan + 4 Months Free offer, which is fully covered by a 30-day money-back guarantee.
For more information, please refer to my ExpressVPN review.
🔒 Bottom Line:
ExpressVPN is the top choice for navigating restrictions in China in 2025. While not free, its 30-day money-back guarantee allows risk-free testing. With a massive server network, advanced obfuscation, top security tools, and excellent customer support, ExpressVPN remains the best VPN for bypassing the Great Firewall and ensuring fast, private access online.
ExpressVPN is the top choice for navigating restrictions in China in 2025. While not free, its 30-day money-back guarantee allows risk-free testing. With a massive server network, advanced obfuscation, top security tools, and excellent customer support, ExpressVPN remains the best VPN for bypassing the Great Firewall and ensuring fast, private access online.
Pros
Cons
Try ExpressVPN - Best Free Trial VPN for China 30-day money-back guarantee
VPNScore
5.3
Hide.me VPN - Best Free VPN for China with Advanced Security Protocols
Price
$9.95/mo
Servers
2,300
Latest Tests
Yes
Jurisdiction
Malaysian
Whether you’re browsing safely from China or just need a robust VPN on a budget, hide.me offers a solid balance of security, performance, and value. With a range of free and paid plans, hide.me provides excellent privacy features and consistent speeds, making it an ideal choice for various online needs.
Server Network:
Hide.me boasts a network of servers across 50+ countries in the paid version, with free access to servers in five countries, including Singapore, for users near China. This robust network ensures strong connections and better options for fast, uninterrupted browsing.
Hide.me free VPN server helped me access Amazon Prime Video in China.
Performance:
During testing, hide.me maintained smooth, reliable speeds on nearby servers, even under restrictive networks. It offers unlimited data on the free plan, allowing unrestricted access to the web, though speeds may vary over long distances.
Speed Test:
While hide.me delivers solid speeds, users seeking the fastest streaming and torrenting should note that ExpressVPN consistently outperforms in speed tests. That said, hide.me’s Bolt feature (available in paid plans) enhances connection speed, making it a close competitor.
Hide.Me speed test result on a 100 Mbps connection in China.
Security and Privacy Measures:
Hide.me’s security features are robust and include RAM-only servers, leak protection, perfect forward secrecy, and an audited no-logs policy. The free plan includes advanced security settings to safeguard your data, and obfuscation on the OpenVPN protocol helps bypass China’s DPI blocks.
The SmartGuard ad blocker and additional features enhance your browsing experience and protect against tracking.
Device Compatibility:
With hide.me, users can secure a variety of devices. The free plan supports one device connection, while the paid version allows up to 10 simultaneous connections, making it convenient for multiple devices at home or on the go.
Free Trial and Pricing:
Hide.me’s free plan offers unlimited data and essential security features without a time limit. For users wanting more, the paid plans start at just $2.49/month, offering a 30-day money-back guarantee and access to the entire server network.
Exclusive Deal:
Hide.me provides a generous free plan with 10GB of monthly data, enabling users to try its service without any financial commitment.
You can learn more about this service in my Hide.Me review.
🔒 Bottom Line:
Hide.me offers good security with a free plan that includes unlimited data and servers in nearby locations, useful for light use in China. ExpressVPN outperforms it in speed, server variety, and reliability, especially for more demanding users.
Hide.me offers good security with a free plan that includes unlimited data and servers in nearby locations, useful for light use in China. ExpressVPN outperforms it in speed, server variety, and reliability, especially for more demanding users.
Pros
Cons
VPNScore
3.0
Astrill VPN - Secure VPN for China with a Free Trial
Price
Servers
Latest Tests
Jurisdiction
AstrillVPN is known for its high-level privacy features, which are ideal for users seeking secure access within China’s heavily restricted internet environment. Its Multihop and StealthVPN features are particularly adept at navigating China’s Great Firewall, making it a top free VPN for mainland China.
Server Network and Performance
AstrillVPN offers an extensive server network in 58 countries, including servers in nearby Japan and Taiwan, which are optimized for users in China. These servers help maintain fast and stable connections, which is crucial for accessing the Great Firewall effectively.
AstrillVPN has nearby servers in China.
My experience with Astrill VPN was nothing short of remarkable. It has a diverse server network with rapid IP refresh rates, ensuring continuous access even under strict internet censorship. Using Astrill VPN in China, I found it highly effective for accessing popular streaming platforms like Netflix and Hulu.
Astrill VPN can unblock US geo-restricted platforms like in China
Bandwidth and Speed
Astrill VPN does not impose bandwidth limits on its free trial, allowing uninterrupted streaming and browsing. On a 100 Mbps connection, it managed an average download speed of 52.90 Mbps and an upload speed of 5.03 Mbps.
I was very pleased with Astrill’s VPN server speeds.
Security and Privacy Features
Astrill VPN’s commitment to security is evident through its military-grade encryption and robust privacy protocols. Users in China can take solace in the VPN’s strict no-logs policy and additional safeguards like OpenWeb, Stealth Mode and Multihop, ensuring their online activities remain private.
Device Compatibility and Connections
Compatibility across devices is another strong suit for Astrill VPN. AstrillVPN is compatible with a variety of devices, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, making it adaptable to both home and travel setups.
Free Trial and Pricing
While Astrill VPN is not a free VPN, it does entice potential users with a free trial for 7 days, allowing them to get a hands-on feel for the service before making any financial commitment. For a dependable VPN in China, the US$12.00/mo pricing can be considered a sensible investment.
Read the comprehensive Astrill VPN review to learn more about its services.
🔒 Bottom Line:
AstrillVPN is a premium VPN built for privacy-focused users in restrictive regions like China, offering advanced security and reliable access. However, it lacks a free plan and money-back guarantee, unlike ExpressVPN, which offers both and is generally a more flexible option.
AstrillVPN is a premium VPN built for privacy-focused users in restrictive regions like China, offering advanced security and reliable access. However, it lacks a free plan and money-back guarantee, unlike ExpressVPN, which offers both and is generally a more flexible option.
Pros
Cons
VPNScore
2.7
Hotspot Shield - Free VPN for China For Fast Browsing
Price
$7.99/mo
Servers
3,200
Latest Tests
Yes
Jurisdiction
Redwood City, California
Hotspot Shield is a free VPN for China for fast browsing. Its Catapult Hydra Protocol and unlimited data allowance make it a good VPN for China for short-term browsing and accessing blocked social media platforms.
Server Network
Hotspot Shield’s free plan offers limited server locations, but users in China can achieve better speeds by connecting to nearby servers, such as those in Japan or Singapore.
Hotspot Shield offers 1 server in China
During my tests, I unblock streaming services like YouTube, Netflix, and Hulu with Hotspot Shield free Los Angeles Server. However, I recommend other VPN options over it.
You can unblock US-based streaming services using this free VPN in China.
That said, while I could 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 get annoying ads and pop-ups every minute.
Speed
Nonetheless, Hotspot Shield is still the best VPN in 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 45.63 Mbps and 39.56 Mbps, respectively.
Hotspot Shield offers fast download and upload speeds for buffer-free streaming.
Devices Compatibility
Hotspot Shield is compatible with 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.
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 is an added layer of security, safeguarding your data in case the VPN connection drops.
Free Version Bandwidth
Hotspot Shield Free VPN’s data cap limits heavy usage, making it ideal for quick browsing or accessing blocked sites rather than extended streaming or downloading. For users requiring more data and advanced features, Hotspot Shield’s premium plans start at a competitive price.
You can learn more about this China VPN free in my Hotspot Shield review.
🔒 Bottom Line:
Hotspot Shield’s free plan is easy to use with fast nearby servers, ideal for quick browsing in China. With data caps and fewer privacy features than ExpressVPN, it’s better for casual users but lacks the comprehensive security ExpressVPN provides.
Hotspot Shield’s free plan is easy to use with fast nearby servers, ideal for quick browsing in China. With data caps and fewer privacy features than ExpressVPN, it’s better for casual users but lacks the comprehensive security ExpressVPN provides.
Pros
Cons
VPNScore
2.4
Urban VPN - 100 Free VPN for China
Price
$9.99/mo
Servers
80+
Latest Tests
Yes
Jurisdiction
United States
UrbanVPN is a 100% free virtual private network 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
UrbanVPN’s wide server network spans over 80 countries, giving users in China access to a range of connection options.
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.
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 speed. My UrbanVPN speed test results indicate download speeds of 29.58 Mbps and upload rates often exceeding 25. 91Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection.
Urban VPN China server offers fast download and upload speeds for buffer-free streaming.
Security & Privacy Measures
UrbanVPN offers standard AES–256 encryption and a commendable no-logs policy. The inclusion of a kill switch feature enhances its security credentials. Additionally, UrbanVPN provides 24/7 live chat support, adding to its user-friendly appeal. While UrbanVPN provides basic encryption, it may not be ideal for sensitive data handling; however, it’s suitable for general browsing needs in China.
Devices Compatibility
UrbanVPN is compatible with both desktop and mobile devices, making it easy to switch between platforms.
Free Version Bandwidth
UrbanVPN stands out as a China VPN for free services, providing unlimited data usage without any hidden costs. This makes it an attractive option for users who need a VPN in China without any financial commitment.
You can learn more about this service in my Urban VPN review, which analyses its features, performance, and user experience.
🔒 Bottom Line:
UrbanVPN is a fully free VPN with unlimited data, ideal for basic browsing in China, but lacks advanced privacy features. While it provides general access, ExpressVPN offers stronger security and faster speeds, making it a better choice for privacy-focused users.
UrbanVPN is a fully free VPN with unlimited data, ideal for basic browsing in China, but lacks advanced privacy features. While it provides general access, ExpressVPN offers stronger security and faster speeds, making it a better choice for privacy-focused users.
Pros
Cons
VPNScore
2.1
Windscribe - Free VPN for China with 10 GB of Free Data
Price
$1.00/mo
Servers
3,000+
Latest Tests
Yes
Jurisdiction
Toronto
Can Windscribe be used in China? Yes, Windscribe can be used in China. It stands out as a great free VPN China due to its free allowance of 10 GB/month, 10+ free server locations, and unlimited device connections. Windscribe provides excellent privacy features and works across diverse platforms, making it a versatile choice for anyone seeking the best VPN for China free.
Server Network
Windscribe has servers in 10+ countries for free users, including Hong Kong and Japan, allowing for more reliable access around China.
Windscribe Honk Kong server
Performance
So, does Windscribe work in China? Yes, with a Windscribe Hong Kong server you can connect this free VPN from China to anywhere, which makes it a strong free VPN working in China.
I also accessed BBC iPlayer, using its free UK servers within China, and enjoyed it without compromising my security or privacy. Windscribe maintained consistent speeds during testing, with minimal buffering when accessing international sites.
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 can be pretty good if you’re looking for a reliable free VPN.
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, an integrated ad blocker, double-hop servers, and split tunneling to maximize privacy in restrictive regions. It has an amazing feature called ROBERT, a server-side domain and IP-blocking tool to protect against malware.
Devices Compatibility
I use Windscribe through its dedicated Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS apps. 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.
I’ve used Windscribe on my Android devices in China, including my mobile phone and tablet, to safeguard myself from threats. Windscribe has provided complete protection for my Android devices, allowing me to confidently say it’s the best free VPN for Android in China.
Free Version Bandwidth
The Windscribe free trial version lets you access servers in 11 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.
🔒 Bottom Line:
Windscribe’s free plan provides servers near China and strong encryption, making it a solid option for light browsing. However, with data limits and fewer security features than ExpressVPN, it’s less suited for high-security needs or extensive streaming.
Windscribe’s free plan provides servers near China and strong encryption, making it a solid option for light browsing. However, with data limits and fewer security features than ExpressVPN, it’s less suited for high-security needs or extensive streaming.
Pros
Cons
How to Configure the Best free VPN for China?
To download the best Chinese VPN free, follow these steps:
- Select a VPN that offers a free trial period, like ExpressVPN, which is known to be effective in China.
- Download and install the VPN app from the official source to avoid security risks.
- Connect to a server near China, such as Hong Kong or Taiwan, for the best speeds and a reliable connection.
- You can freely browse the internet without the constraints of the Great Firewall of China.
What Streaming and Social Media Services are Blocked in China?
China has implemented strict internet restrictions, blocking social media sites like Gmail, Google, YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. VPN service providers are currently impacted by the Great Firewall of China’s stringent censorship policies.
Here’s a brief overview of the types of content and specific services that are inaccessible within China which can be accessed through a VPN:
| Category | Blocked Services |
| Social Media | Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat |
| Search Engines | Google, Yahoo, DuckDuckGo |
| Messaging Apps | WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal |
| Video Platforms | YouTube, Vimeo, Dailymotion |
| News Outlets | BBC, CNN, The New York Times |
| Productivity Apps | Google Drive, Dropbox, Slack |
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:
- 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.
- Keep Multiple VPN Options: Equip your device with alternative VPNs to navigate potential service fluctuations. So, in case of censorship, you must have a backup free VPN if you intend to reside in China or travel there frequently.
- Enable Obfuscation Tools: Activate obfuscation or Stealth modes to prevent detection by the Great Firewall.
- 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 using a free VPN to China IP.
- Stay Informed on VPN Updates: Keep in touch with your VPN provider and online communities for the latest functional VPNs.
- Test VPNs Before Your Trip: Ensure your VPN works and acquaint yourself with its features beforehand.
- 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.
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:
- Update your VPN App: Make sure to update your VPN app regularly. You might encounter glitches or issues that stop the app from working properly if it’s not up-to-date. This could lead to your connection being blocked in China.
- Try to switch to a Different Server: Attempt connecting to a different VPN server by disconnecting from the one you’re currently using and reconnecting to an alternative one. There’s a possibility that the IP of the other server hasn’t been blocked yet.
- Activate the obfuscation feature of VPN: Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) blocks could prevent you from using the VPN, so it’s crucial to enable obfuscation to conceal your VPN connection.
- Utilize TCP port 443 for your VPN connection: Port restrictions could be causing issues with your VPN usage. In such situations, opt for the OpenVPN protocol, which typically operates on TCP port 443.
- Get in touch with customer support By reaching out to the provider’s support team via email. They should be capable of assisting you. However, it’s important to note that the email support of many free VPNs is often not very prompt in responding.
For a hassle-free experience, consider using the suggested VPNs, which are optimized for reliable connectivity and performance in China.
Is it Safe to Use Free VPNs in China?
Using free VPNs in China is generally not safe. Free VPNs often lack robust security measures, may have limited server options, and can be unreliable in accessing the Great Firewall. Additionally, they may log and sell your data, posing significant privacy risks.
It’s advisable to use reputable paid VPNs that offer better security, privacy, and reliability.
Risks & Disadvantages of Using a Free VPN in China
Using a free VPN in China might seem appealing due to cost savings, but the limitations often make it a less-than-ideal choice for users who value their privacy and unrestricted access. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:
- Limited Security and Privacy: Many free VPNs do not offer the strong security features necessary to protect against China’s advanced internet surveillance, which means your activities could be exposed to unwanted third parties or government scrutiny.
- Data Caps and Throttling: Free VPNs impose data caps or throttled internet speeds, which can significantly impact your ability to stream, download, or browse effectively.
- Server Limitations: Due to the limited free servers, users experience network congestion and slower speeds, which can be particularly problematic when accessing content from abroad or simply navigating the web.
- Absence of Obfuscation: Obfuscation technology is critical in a VPN to China to mask VPN traffic from the Great Firewall. Unfortunately, many free VPNs lack this feature, making them more prone to detection and blocking.
- Unapproved VPNs: In China, using VPNs that are not approved by the government is technically illegal, and while enforcement can be inconsistent, it’s a risk that should be considered.
- Potential for Malware and Targeted Ads: Some free VPNs have been known to contain malware, and others may use targeted ads as a revenue stream. Both practices can compromise your device’s security and lead to privacy concerns.
To navigate these challenges, it’s recommended to use a VPN known for its reliability in China, such as ExpressVPN, which offers advanced features and has been tested for performance and privacy within the country.
How Does China Block Free VPNs?
In my extensive research and firsthand experience with the Great Firewall, China utilizes multiple methods to disrupt VPN usage.
- IP Blocks: The Chinese government uses automated systems to flag and block popular VPN IP addresses, preventing anyone in China from connecting.
- Deep Packet Inspection (DPI): this allows the government to analyze internet traffic in real-time and identify encrypted VPN traffic, subsequently blocking it.
- Port Blocking: VPN protocols use specific ports for communication. The VPN cannot establish a connection if an ISP blocks these ports, such as UDP and TCP ports 1194 for OpenVPN or UDP port 4500 for IKEv2/IPSec.
Despite these obstacles, some VPNs have adapted. They regularly switch server IPs and modify their protocols to evade detection, ensuring that users in China can maintain access to a free and open internet.
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 access the Great Firewall effectively.
Free VPNs have been known to jeopardize your online privacy and security and thus not recommended.
| Free VPN Providers | Why I did not include them in my list of the best free VPNs for China |
|---|---|
| Proton VPN | Proton VPN offers one of the top free plans available, featuring unlimited data, impressive speeds, and robust security and privacy measures. Unfortunately, it doesn’t operate reliably within China. Thus, Proton VPN China is not recommended. |
| Betternet | Betternet accesses global censorship and 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 Betternet Review. |
| PrivateVPN | With limited servers prone to overloading, lack of split tunnelling, and no native WireGuard support, it requires manual setup and VPN toggling for incompatible apps. Learn more in my Private VPN Review. |
How does the Best Free VPN for China Compare to Paid VPNs?
Here is a table comparing the best free VPN for China to paid VPNs based on a few key points:
| Criteria | Free VPN | Paid VPNs |
|---|---|---|
| Accessing Censorship | Inconsistent, may not access the Great Firewall reliably | Consistently accesses the Great Firewall |
| Data Limits | Often limited to a small amount of data per month | Unlimited data usage |
| Privacy Policies | May collect and sell user data | Strict no-logs policies, user privacy prioritized |
| Streaming Access | Limited access to streaming services | Full access to major streaming services (e.g., Netflix, BBC iPlayer) |
| Advanced Features | Often Lacks advanced features like split tunnelling, kill switch | Includes advanced features for enhanced control and security |
What Are User Reviews Saying About the Best Free VPN for China? (Reddit/Quora)
Here are a few suggestions by users on discussing the best free VPN for China on Reddit and Quora:
Users mention that free VPNs in China have limited functionality and can be unreliable. ProtonVPN has connectivity issues and slow speeds. Some users recommend LetsVPN, particularly for mobile, though it’s a trial and managed by a Chinese company, raising privacy concerns. Deeper Network’s beta app and other lesser-known VPNs are also mentioned, though availability and reliability vary.
Overall, users generally agree that paid VPNs like ExpressVPN are more consistent in overcoming China’s firewall. I also recommend ExpressVPN, which offers a free trial and reliably accesses Chinese restrictions.
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 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 for Turkey | Explore and access Internet censorship in Turkey |
| Best Free VPN for Philippines | Secure and free browsing in the Philippines. |
FAQs – Best Free VPN for China
Does free VPN work in China?
Many free VPNs lack the security needed for use in China due to DNS leaks, weak encryption, and outdated protocols, leading to potential blocks. The VPNs listed here work reliably in China and are free. My top recommendation for China is ExpressVPN.
Is It Legal to Use a VPN in China?
While there are no publicly reported cases of visitors being penalized for using VPNs in China, it’s advised to exercise caution. The legality of VPN use in China often depends on whether the government approves the VPN. Non-approved VPNs, like ExpressVPN, are recommended for enhanced privacy, but users should be aware of local laws and regulations.
Which free VPN is best in China?
The best free VPN for China is ExpressVPN. It efficiently accesses the Great Firewall of China quickly, offers high speeds (89.42 Mbps), and has numerous servers in Hong Kong and neighbouring countries, ensuring reliable and unrestricted internet access.
Is there an ExpressVPN China server?
ExpressVPN lacks physical servers within mainland China, but it maintains servers in Hong Kong and Macau, which are not subject to the Great Firewall. However, the Chinese government does monitor certain internet traffic and restricts access to some websites in Hong Kong and Macau.
How does the best free VPN for China protect user privacy?
The best free VPN for China typically employs basic encryption to protect user data but may still log user activity and sell data to third parties. Consequently, it offers minimal privacy protection compared to paid VPNs.
Should I use a free VPN to access internet censorship in China?
No, I advise against using most free VPNs for Chinese censorship. 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.
Can I use a free VPN to get a China IP address?
No, obtaining a Chinese IP address with a free VPN is generally impossible. Free VPN services cannot typically access the advanced firewalls in China. For effective access and to get a Chinese IP address, you should consider premium VPNs like ExpressVPN, which navigate these restrictions and are reliable for streaming and online gaming in China.
Final Thoughts
Although the choices for a VPN with China servers are somewhat restricted, the best free VPN for China I’ve recommended offers basic security and speed. Given the nature of China’s internet restrictions, investing in a reputable VPN service is more reliable to ensure uninterrupted access.
That’s why I recommend the best free trial VPN – ExpressVPN. It effortlessly navigates through the Great Firewall of China and offers advanced features.
