5 Best Free VPNs for China That Work in 2025 (Fast & Safe)

Using a VPN in China requires careful consideration of both safety and performance. Most free VPNs struggle to work in China, and many are actually dangerous — collecting your data, installing malware, or failing to protect your privacy when you need it most. With the country’s strict internet regulations and control, using an unreliable VPN could put you at serious risk.

After extensive research, we found and shortlisted a few free options that can work in China. These VPNs use obfuscation techniques to mask VPN traffic and maintain stable connections. However, they still come with significant drawbacks, like limited servers, slower speeds, and strict data caps that can impact your browsing experience. For an interrupted online experience, it’s better to use a low-cost premium VPN.

My top recommendation for China is ExpressVPN. It’s not free, but it delivers reliable performance and advanced features that free VPNs lack. For instance, it offers stable connections with minimal downtime thanks to its advanced obfuscation technology. You also get fast speeds for smooth browsing and streaming, along with robust security features to protect your online privacy. Plus, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can test it without financial risk. Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

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Short on Time? Here Are the Best Free VPNs for China in 2025

Best Free VPNs for China — Full Analysis (Updated 2025)

1. ExpressVPN — Best China VPN With Advanced Obfuscation for Maximum Uptime

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Tested January 2025

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www.expressvpn.com

ExpressVPN is known to deliver the highest uptime in China, thanks to its sophisticated obfuscation technology. The VPN automatically detects Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) and masks your VPN traffic to make it look like regular internet activity. ExpressVPN's obfuscation works automatically across its entire server network without any manual setup required. You only need to keep your protocol set to Automatic for obfuscation to work and to securely access your sites.

You can create shortcuts to your favorite apps and sites that show up on the home screen

It offers excellent connection speeds, making it possible to use apps, websites, and services in China without lag. For instance, while testing on a restrictive network, ExpressVPN’s Macau server gave us a minimal speed loss of only 8%. Most free VPNs we tested cut our speeds by 60–70% on similar connections.

TrustedServer Technology (RAM-only servers) ensures your data is kept private. Plus, its independently audited no-logs policy and headquarters in the British Virgin Islands (outside the jurisdiction of the 5/9/14 Eyes) protect your online privacy further. Every server uses private DNS, too, so your requests go directly through ExpressVPN — not a third party. Almost no free VPN offers this level of privacy.

The only problem is that ExpressVPN isn’t free. However, it offers significantly better reliability than any free VPN we tested. It’s also backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can get a full refund if you’re not satisfied. Plus, you can pay privately since it accepts cryptocurrency and works with other payment methods that are also available in China.

Useful Features

• Multiple download options. You can download ExpressVPN in China through its mirror sites — just email support@expressvpn.zendesk.com for the working links. Android users can also get the APK file directly from ExpressVPN's website. For the easiest setup process, I recommend downloading the VPN before traveling to China.
• Server recommendations. ExpressVPN's website maintains a current list of servers that work best in China. These servers span multiple countries, including Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, and the US. The app's Recommended tab helps you find the optimal server for your location.
• Strong security. ExpressVPN protects your data with bank-grade AES 256-bit encryption and perfect forward secrecy for maximum security. The Advanced Protection features add another layer of safety by blocking dangerous ads, trackers, and malware.
• Router support. Unlike most free VPNs, you can easily install and configure ExpressVPN on your router with native firmware to protect all your devices in China. It also offers a plug-and-play VPN router Aircove and its travel-size counterpart Aircove Go. If you don’t want a router setup, you can use its apps on 8 devices simultaneously, which is more than enough for most people.

2. Proton VPN — Unlimited Data for Continuous Internet Access in China

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protonvpn.com

Proton VPN provides unlimited data for uninterrupted internet access in China. Most free VPNs restrict you to 500MB–10GB monthly data, which can leave you unexpectedly disconnected. This unrestricted data allowance means your secure connection stays active as long as you need it. You can handle daily tasks without worrying about hitting sudden data limits.

Proton VPN's app gives you one-click access to protected connections for China

The service includes servers in 6 locations, including the US, Japan, and the Netherlands. The app automatically selects your server location — manual selection isn't available with the free plan. When in China, you will most likely connect to its Japanese servers due to proximity.

Proton VPN's security features make it ideal for use in China. It's developed by the team behind ProtonMail and operates under strict Swiss privacy laws. The VPN's no-logs policy has passed independent audits, and its open-source apps let security researchers verify the code — a level of transparency rare among free VPNs.

The Stealth protocol's speed performance is disappointing. If the VPN stops working, you might need to enable it, but it can slow down your speeds significantly. For instance, we lost 68% on a restrictive network after enabling Stealth.

Useful Features

• WireGuard TCP. UDP protocols are usually faster, but TCP can be more reliable for unstable networks. That’s handy to have in China, and again, many free VPNs don’t offer this (although ExpressVPN has UDP and TCP versions of its Lightway).
• Responsive customer support. While you have to upgrade to premium to get 24/7 live chat, you can at least get a reply to your queries via email. It tends to respond within 1 to 2 hours, so you won’t have to wait too long if you’re having tech issues or questions before going to China.

3. hide.me — Customizable Security Settings for Enhanced Privacy on Restricted Networks

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www.hide.me

hide.me offers extensive customization options, letting you fine-tune your connection in China. You can switch between multiple protocols, including OpenVPN, SofEtherVPN, and WireGuard, to find the most stable connection. The VPN also lets you toggle between IPv4 and IPv6, letting you switch if one struggles with restrictions. In our hide.me tests, IPv6 proved to be slightly faster than IPv4.

The adjustable StealthGuard feature is a great way to protect your data in China

Unlike Proton VPN, hide.me gives you full control over your connection points until you use up to 10GB of data. The VPN offers free servers in 8 locations, including the US and UK, but there are none in Asia. You can manually choose any server location based on your needs, but once you hit the 10GB limit, it will connect you to the nearest option.

Its security features are well-suited for restricted networks. The VPN runs its own DNS servers, which prevent DNS leaks that could compromise your privacy. Its strict no-logs policy and Malaysian jurisdiction keep your data away from surveillance alliances and government authorities. The built-in kill switch (Stealth Guard) prevents accidental data exposure.

The main drawback of hide.me is the inconsistent speed. For instance, we saw speed drops of up to 80% on hide.me distant servers. While you do get unlimited data, the speeds may not be enough for bandwidth-heavy tasks in China.

Useful Features

• 24/7 live chat. hide.me offers 24/7 live chat on the website, which is unusual for a free VPN. There’s also a ticketing system on the app under Support. Such types of comms are useful should you run into tech issues in China.
• Split tunneling. You can save more data with split tunneling, which lets you select apps to bypass the VPN. It’s also possible to designate a browser for accessing sites via the VPN.

4. Hotspot Shield — Hydra Protocol Gives You Speed and Security in China

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www.hotspotshield.com

Hotspot Shield offers its proprietary Hydra protocol, which is engineered for fast speeds and low ping over long distances. This makes it ideal for data-heavy tasks in China. On its distant servers, we only saw a 29% speed loss, which is better than even some of the premium VPNs. Being a relatively new protocol, Hydra often works well on restrictive networks where traditional protocols struggle, making it a great option for China.

Hotspot Shield's Hydra protocol has low latency, which makes for smooth gameplay

Getting started with Hotspot Shield is straightforward and quick. You don't need to create an account — just download the app and start using the service. The intuitive interface makes it easy to secure your connection in China. The dashboard displays useful information, like peak speed, data consumed, and load on the server.

Hotspot Shield gives you unrestricted data for all your online needs. Rather than watching your data usage or waiting for monthly resets, you can secure your connection in China whenever you want. I also appreciate that it's P2P-friendly, so you can transfer large files without hitting a limit.

The main shortcoming is that its mobile apps display ads, which can be intrusive. Additionally, Hotspot Shield collects more user data than other free VPNs on this list. While this doesn't include browsing activity and can't be traced back to you, it’s worth noting that the service logs connection timestamps and bandwidth usage.

Useful Features

• Free servers in 3 continents. Its free plan offers 5 server locations in the US, the UK, and Singapore. While you only get access to 3 countries, you can at least select from all of them, unlike with Proton VPN.
• Solid security features. Hotspot Shield’s free plan protects you with AES 256-bit encryption, an automatic kill switch, IP leak protection, and split tunneling.

5. TunnelBear — Simple Interface and Reliable Security Features for Beginners

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www.tunnelbear.com

TunnelBear’s quirky, user-friendly app is ideal for one-click protection in China. There’s a world map interface to help you quickly find your desired location. Alternatively, it has a drop-down menu server list. During my tests, I clicked the tunnel to connect to its Taiwan location, and the animated bear dug its way there and let out a big “rawr.”

TunnelBear only took 2 seconds to connect to a Taiwan server that was 6,000 miles away

The VPN provides strong security features despite its simple design. Its VigilantBear feature (kill switch) immediately blocks the internet when your connection drops, while GhostBear mode adds extra obfuscation to mask VPN traffic. All of TunnelBear’s security features worked reliably — we didn’t detect any IP/DNS leaks.

TunnelBear has the largest server network of all the free China VPNs we tested. Although you can’t select servers at the city level, it gives you access to connections in each of TunnelBear’s 47 locations. You get numerous options near China, ensuring better performance to keep your online activities running smoothly.

I was a little disappointed by the 2GB/month data limit. For context, that’s only enough for a few hours of streaming on BiliBili. It’s more than many free VPNs but a lot less than the other options listed here.

Useful Features

• Strong privacy practices. TunnelBear publishes regular transparency reports that reveal any government data requests — it never had anything to share. Plus, it has a strict no-logs policy, which has been verified multiple times.
• Browser extension. TunnelBear offers VPN browser extensions for Chrome, Edge, and Firefox. This means you can securely access your sites right from your browser in China.

Quick Comparison Table: Free China VPN Features

All the VPNs on my list are trustworthy and secure for use in China, though they present considerable differences in the features they provide. Your choice might hinge on the specific reasons you need a VPN.

Obfuscated servers (or Stealth VPN modes) are a big plus since they hide the fact that you’re using a VPN. Fast speeds, a generous data limit, and a vast server network are also necessary to browse without limitations. And if you prefer not to share your email or other details, some free VPNs don’t require signup.

Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

Our Methodology for Testing Free VPNs for China

We prioritize features that matter most in restricted network environments. Our evaluation examines how effectively each VPN's obfuscation capabilities and protocol options maintain reliable connections in China. We rigorously test security features, from leak protection to encryption standards, to ensure your privacy remains protected.

Our evaluation also looks at the speed test results across various locations. We measure connection stability, assess latency impact, and evaluate how security features affect browsing speeds. Each VPN's privacy policy, jurisdiction, and logging practices undergo careful scrutiny to confirm they deliver the robust security needed in restricted regions. For complete details about our testing process, you can check out our VPN testing methodology page.

Expert Tip: Most Free VPNs for China Aren't Safe

The free VPNs recommended in this list maintain strict security standards and reliable performance. However, many free VPNs available in app stores can put your privacy at serious risk, especially in regions with strict internet restrictions. We've thoroughly tested each recommended VPN to verify its security features and privacy protections.

Common risks of unsafe free VPNs in China include:

• Activity logging. Most free VPNs track and store detailed logs of your browsing history, connection times, and IP addresses. This data can be shared with third parties or handed over to authorities if requested. Some free VPNs even sell user data to advertisers to generate revenue.
• Weak security. Free VPNs often use outdated encryption standards that are easy to crack. Many lack essential features like IP/DNS leak protection and kill switches, which means your real IP address and online activities could be exposed without warning.
• Hidden malware. Many free VPNs bundle dangerous malware with their apps that can infect your device. This malware often includes keyloggers and spyware that steal your passwords, credit card details, and other sensitive information.

Free VPNs to Avoid

It's quite remarkable when a free VPN works in China. However, not all VPNs that function in China are secure, and I've identified some that can subject you to alarming security threats. It's strongly recommended to steer clear of these hazardous free VPNs:

• Hola Free VPN. While this “VPN” is very popular, it’s not actually a VPN. Hola’s free service is actually a P2P network where you share IP addresses with random strangers. It offers no encryption and exposes your personal IP to anyone on the network. That means someone could connect to your IP address and commit an illegal act online, and you’d be the one who got in trouble for it.
• Touch VPN. Touch VPN logs a frightening amount of user information, including your browsing activity, location, and device information. It also allows its business partners to monitor and record your data. Plus, its headquarters are in the US (the heart of the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance), so it is obligated to share this data with international governments upon request.
• LinkVPN. The origins of LinkVPN are unclear (never a good sign). It seems to be the creation of a lone developer in China who was responsible for other dodgy, privacy-violating VPNs like SuperVPN. Its own privacy policy states that LinkVPN can monitor and record your data and share it with affiliate companies.

Tips to Get a VPN From Within China

The Great Firewall blocks VPNs, so it’s best to get one before you travel to China. Google Play is completely blocked in the country. The Apple App Store is available, but thousands of apps are missing, including non-government-approved VPNs. On top of that, you’ll probably find your VPN’s website is blocked within the country, so you can’t download the app directly.

Here are a few alternate methods you can try if you’re already in China and struggling to find a reliable VPN.

• Use a mirror site. For example, ExpressVPN has 2 mirror sites for users in highly censored countries where its regular website isn’t available. It regularly switches up the URLs to avoid blocks from China and other countries, so you can download it, update the software, and even get in touch with customer support. You can request an up-to-date address from ExpressVPN at support@expressvpn.zendesk.com.
• Change your App Store’s location. The Apple Store isn’t blocked in China (unlike the Google Play Store). Still, you won’t find any VPNs on it that aren’t monitored by the government. You can create a new Apple account and set the country to one where VPNs are available to overcome this. Or change the region of your current account. Just log into the App Store, go to your profile, and tap Country/Region.
• Use hotel WiFi. Many hotels in China have VPNs integrated into their WiFi, so tourists can visit the regular websites they use at home. If you can connect to a hotel’s WiFi that offers this, you should be able to download a VPN.
• Use a web proxy. While proxies are less secure than VPNs, they can change your location so you access the VPN’s website to download the app.
• Download an APK file. Third-party sites offer APK files for all the VPNs on this list. However, be aware that third-party links aren't always safe and sometimes contain malware. If you’re trying this method, I recommend installing antivirus software first.
• Use the Tor browser. Tor has many settings, so the configurations needed for it to work in China change almost daily. Therefore, this method is quite time-consuming. However, once set up, it may be possible to use Tor to access a VPN website and download a free VPN.

Free vs. Paid VPN: Which One Should You Choose For China?

The best choice depends on your priorities when using a VPN in China. If you need maximum reliability and the fastest speeds, a premium VPN is your best option. For occasional use, reliable free VPNs can work too.

Free VPNs typically have smaller server networks and can get crowded during peak hours. This often leads to slower speeds that might affect streaming quality or video calls. They also update their technology less frequently, which can impact their ability to work in restrictive environments.

Premium VPNs invest in regular updates to their technology and servers to maintain reliable access in China. You get larger server networks, consistently fast speeds, and advanced features like split tunneling and enhanced obfuscation. These VPNs also include stronger security features that keep your data private even under strict surveillance.

Most premium VPNs offer money-back guarantees, so you can test their full features without financial risk. Some even provide free trials or bonus months for new users. These policies make it worth trying a premium service first — if you're not satisfied, you can always switch to one of our recommended free options.

FAQs on Free VPNs for China

Is it illegal to use a VPN in China?

VPN usage in China operates under significant restrictions and oversight. The government maintains strict control over approved VPN services, while actively working to block unauthorized providers. That’s why only a select few VPNs work in China. Individual VPN use generally faces less scrutiny than commercial usage, but the regulatory landscape continues to evolve.

There are no publicly reported cases of visitors or tourists being prosecuted for using a VPN in the country. Even so, we recommend you read up on the latest rules and regulations to be informed.

Which free VPNs have servers in China?

None of the recommended free VPNs maintain servers within China. Due to strict data retention laws and government regulations, most reputable VPN providers have removed their physical servers from China. Instead, they operate servers in nearby countries like Japan, Singapore, and South Korea to provide reliable connections.

The VPNs in this list maintain robust networks in neighboring regions to stable performance while keeping your data secure outside of China's jurisdiction.

Are free VPNs safe in China?

Most free VPNs lack the necessary security features for use in China. While the VPNs recommended in this list implement strong encryption and obfuscation methods, many free alternatives use weak protocols that are easily detected and blocked. Some may even compromise your privacy by collecting and sharing user data.

I strongly advise using only verified VPNs with established track records of protecting user privacy in restricted networks. The risk of data exposure or detection is too high with unproven free services.

Can I use a free VPN for streaming in China?

Free VPNs can work for streaming, but their performance is inconsistent. Most streaming platforms have strong VPN detection systems, and free VPNs often struggle with them. When they do work, slower speeds and occasional connection drops might affect your streaming quality.

I recommend using a premium VPN with a money-back guarantee for better streaming performance. These services offer faster speeds, more stable connections, and regular updates to maintain secure HD access to your favorite content.

What if my free VPN stops working in China?

First of all, make sure you’re using a free VPN that’s been verified to work in China. Very few VPNs work reliably. If you’re still running into problems, here are some solutions you can try:

• Change protocols. Go into the security settings and try to connect using each protocol. Proprietary protocols are a good choice since they’re not as highly used, so they tend to be harder to detect and block: ExpressVPN’s Lightway and Hotspot Shield’s Hydra are 2 examples. You can also adjust your protocol’s settings — try using TCP rather than UDP.
• Enable obfuscation. Scrambling your data can help you by making your VPN look like regular internet traffic. Check to make sure obfuscation (sometimes called Stealth) is toggled on.
• Enable the kill switch and leak protection. If your VPN is leaking any of your real info, chances are the VPN connection will be detected and blocked, so it’s important to enable both these important settings.
• Change ports or DNS settings. Some apps let you switch ports and manually configure your device’s IPv4 and IPv6 DNS settings to 1.1.1.1 (Cloudflare).

Why are Google, WhatsApp, and other apps and sites banned in China?

China maintains strict control over internet content through its Great Firewall to regulate information flow within the country. The government blocks foreign services and replaces them with local alternatives — like WeChat instead of WhatsApp and Baidu instead of Google.

The Chinese government has strengthened its blocking mechanisms over the years, making it increasingly difficult to bypass these restrictions. As a result, only a handful of VPNs work in China and even they can experience some downtime.

Popular sites that are blocked due to censorship include Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, WhatsApp, Instagram, and more. It also censors sites, like Yahoo, YouTube, Spotify, and other platforms. Independent news sources such as the BBC and The New York Times are also unavailable.

Why is my VPN so slow in China?

Several factors can affect your VPN speeds in China. The Great Firewall's deep packet inspection system adds extra layers that your traffic must pass through, naturally causing some slowdown. That’s why it’s important to choose a fast VPN to minimize slowdowns.

Peak usage hours often lead to more congestion and slower connections. Your physical distance from the VPN server also impacts speed. Connecting to nearby servers in Hong Kong, Japan, or Singapore typically provides better performance than distant locations like the US or Europe.

To improve your VPN performance, try connecting to different servers, using a wired connection when possible, and selecting servers in nearby countries.

What’s the best free VPN for China, according to Reddit?

Most Redditors praise the second listed VPN as the best 100% free option for use in China. This is due to its Stealth protocol, which helps the VPN to work in China by camouflaging VPN traffic, making it harder to detect and block. Users also appreciate that the free plan offers unlimited data without ads, paired with its reputation for strong privacy protection and transparency.

That said, it has limitations, as with any free VPN. For instance, Redditors sometimes complain about its slow speeds and limited server selection. That’s why I included a paid, premium option with a money-back guarantee (ExpressVPN) at the top of my list so you can make your own comparisons and see what will work best for you.

Get the Best FREE VPN for China

Many free VPNs aren’t equipped and secure enough to work in China. DNS leaks, weak encryption, and outdated protocols can mean you end up disappointed. The VPNs listed in this article are known to work in China.

Even though it’s not completely free, my #1 recommendation for China is ExpressVPN. Its reliability, fast speeds, automatic obfuscation, wide server network, and unlimited data make it undeniably better than any free VPN. Plus, it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it out.

Can’t find a suitable free VPN? Here are the best premium alternatives for 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: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

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