5 Best VPNs for TikTok — Tested & Working in 2024

Many VPNs get flagged by TikTok's algorithms, leading to reduced visibility and even account restrictions. The platform's sophisticated detection system spots most VPN connections, leading to drops in engagement and putting content creators in a tough spot.

That's why my team and I rigorously tested over 60 VPNs to find the ones that work seamlessly with TikTok from anywhere. We looked for VPNs that reliably work with TikTok, even on restricted networks, and provide robust security features and fast speeds for smooth and private video uploads.

ExpressVPN came out on top as the best TikTok VPN. Its automatic obfuscation makes your VPN traffic look like regular internet activity, hiding VPN usage to remain undetected by TikTok. Additionally, its Lightway protocol provides the fastest speeds for almost instant video uploads. You can try ExpressVPN risk-free, as it's backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. 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.

Try ExpressVPN for TikTok >>

Short on Time? Here Are the Best VPNs for TikTok in 2024

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.

Best VPNs for TikTok — Full Analysis (Updated 2024)

1. ExpressVPN — Automatically Conceals VPN Traffic to Avoid Detection and Interference From TikTok

Editor’s Choice Editor’s Choice Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Tested October 2024

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try ExpressVPN >

www.expressvpn.com

ExpressVPN's default settings make it nearly impossible for TikTok to detect VPN use, as it disguises VPN traffic as regular internet activity. Additionally, it regularly rotates its IP addresses to avoid IP blocks. My testing team and I could browse, post, and interact on TikTok without any signs of shadowbanning or reduced engagement.

The VPN secures your connection with military-grade encryption and adheres to an independently audited no-logs policy. Additionally, its TrustedServer technology wipes all data with every server reboot. I also activated the Threat Manager feature to block trackers and malicious websites, which is helpful when clicking on links in TikTok bios.

Its proprietary Lightway protocol makes it possible to stream TikTok videos in HD from anywhere. It reduced our upload speeds by only 3% testing servers in New York. For example, we uploaded a 1-minute 4K video to TikTok in just 15 seconds. The ExpressVPN app even remembers your last used server, making it easy to reconnect to your preferred location.

On the downside, plans start at $6.67/month, which might seem steep compared to its competitors. However, I found the price justified by its superior performance and reliability with TikTok. Plus, ExpressVPN frequently offers discounts, and you can try it risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee. When I tested it out, I got a refund in only 3 days.

Useful Features

• Network Lock (kill switch). This feature immediately cuts your internet if the VPN connection drops, preventing your real IP from being exposed to TikTok and risking a shadowban.
• Split tunneling. You can route TikTok traffic through the VPN while other apps use your regular connection, optimizing speed for faster uploads.
• 24/7 live chat support. Expert assistance is always available if you encounter any issues while using TikTok with the VPN.
• 8 simultaneous connections. You can secure multiple devices running TikTok, perfect for managing multiple accounts or sharing with family.

2. CyberGhost — Easy-to-Use Mobile Apps To Protect Your Data While Using TikTok

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

CyberGhost's mobile apps make it easy to connect to a server and use TikTok securely, even if you’re new to VPNs. We went from installing the app to browsing TikTok in under 2 minutes. Additionally, during our tests, the VPN's Best Location feature automatically connected us to the fastest available server for our location, saving us time.

With its Smart Rules feature, you can configure CyberGhost to connect to a server automatically whenever you open TikTok. You can also set the VPN to connect on startup, so your TikTok activity is protected from the moment you go online. Additionally, the VPN warns you when you join unknown WiFi networks, so you remember to secure your connection.

You'll find all your preferred servers in the Favorites tab

Based in privacy-friendly Romania, outside the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliances, CyberGhost isn't required to store or share your data with authorities. Like ExpressVPN, the VPN's AES 256-bit encryption gave me peace of mind when sharing TikToks over unsecured networks.

The main drawback with CyberGhost is its relatively expensive monthly plan, which only comes with a short refund period. However, its long-term plans provide a generous 45-day money-back guarantee and discounts of up to 83%. If you're not satisfied with how it performs with TikTok, you can easily claim a full refund by contacting its 24/7 live chat.

Useful Features

• NoSpy servers. These servers are exclusively operated by CyberGhost staff, reducing the risk of third-party interference when using TikTok. However, it costs a bit extra.
• Content Blocker. This feature blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites, enhancing your privacy and potentially improving TikTok's performance by reducing background data usage.
• Dedicated IPs. For a small additional fee, you can get a unique IP address, which may help avoid TikTok's VPN detection mechanisms and reduce the risk of shadowbans.

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — SOCKS5 Proxy Improves Performance and Prevents Flags from TikTok

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ FIFA+ Netflix

Disney+ APV More

Try Private Internet Access >

www.privateinternetaccess.com

PIA’s SOCKS5 proxy changes your IP address without encrypting your connection, allowing for faster uploads and smoother streaming on TikTok compared to a regular VPN connection. Additionally, if you manage multiple TikTok accounts, a SOCKS5 proxy can allow you to log into different accounts without being flagged for suspicious activity.

I browsed popular German content with PIA's DE server

This TikTok VPN can connect to servers in all 50 US states to reach specific audiences or get new recommendations. Additionally, it has one of the largest networks among VPNs. We didn’t experience any server overcrowding during our tests, which led to good speeds. Like CyberGhost, PIA also offers dedicated IP addresses to avoid CAPTCHAs and shadowbans.

A minor drawback is its US headquarters, which falls under the jurisdiction of the 5 Eyes Alliance. However, PIA addresses this with a strict no-logs policy that has been independently audited and proven in court. This means that even if the US (or any other) government requests your data, there’d be nothing to hand over, as PIA doesn’t track or store your online activity.

You can get a subscription for as low as $2.19/month. Despite the low price, it doesn't skimp on features or performance. Additionally, you can test PIA free for 30 days using its money-back guarantee.

Useful Features

• Port forwarding. This feature can potentially improve your connection speeds when uploading TikTok videos, especially useful for content creators dealing with large file sizes.
• Customizable encryption. You can switch between the fast AES 128-bit encryption mode and the safer but slightly slower AES 256-bit level when using the OpenVPN protocol.
• Unlimited connections. PIA does not cap the number of simultaneous connections you use with a single subscription. That way, you can protect all of your TikTok devices.

4. NordVPN — Meshnet Feature to Remotely Access Your Device and Use TikTok Safely From Anywhere

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try NordVPN >

www.nordvpn.com

NordVPN's Meshnet feature lets you create a secure network between up to 60 devices worldwide. We used Meshnet to share large video files with other team members across different countries. During tests, I transferred a 1GB TikTok compilation video to a colleague in under 5 minutes. Plus, this feature allows you to use your home device from abroad to avoid getting flagged.

Obfuscated servers are slower, but they offer reliable connections

We had the best speeds using NordVPN's own NordLynx protocol. It’s based on the speed-optimized WireGuard but employs double NAT technology to fill in WireGuard’s security gaps. It’s not quite as fast as ExpressVPN’s Lightway, but it’s close. You can also connect to its specialty P2P servers for faster transfer speeds when sharing large TikTok files.

I also like that this VPN for TikTok offers a built-in antivirus and malware blocker labeled Threat Protection. However, I was disappointed that I couldn’t always access TikTok with it on. Turning it off always solves the issue, though. You can also switch to Threat Protection Lite to securely access TikTok from anywhere without running into potential security threats.

Like its competitors, the VPN also offers a reliable money-back guarantee. You can try NordVPN risk-free for 30 days and get a refund if you don’t want to keep using it.

Useful Features

• Dark Web Monitor. It alerts you if your TikTok account credentials are leaked on the dark web, allowing you to take quick action to secure your account.
• Presets. Create custom quick-connect profiles for TikTok, automatically connecting to your preferred server and applying specific settings with a single click.
• Onion Over VPN. For TikTok users on restricted networks, this feature provides an extra layer of anonymity by routing your connection through Tor.

5. Surfshark — Unlimited Simultaneous Connections to Conveniently Use On All Your TikTok Devices

Works With:

ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+ Netflix

Disney+ APV More

Try Surfshark >

www.surfshark.com

You and your entire household can use Surfshark on all your TikTok devices under one account. Sure, most people use TikTok on phones, but I find it much easier to check out stats and upload videos on my desktop when possible. My team and I tested it by connecting several devices at once, including iPhones, iPads, and several laptops, and its performance didn’t change at all.

This can help you avoid malicious content in TikTok video links

You can choose to connect to a static IP to reduce the risk of your account being flagged or requiring additional verifications like CAPTCHA tests due to changing IPs. Its MultiHop servers route your connection through 2 VPN servers. This adds an extra layer of privacy to TikTok users with strict internet regulations.

One minor concern is that Surfshark can sometimes offer slow upload speeds. However, this only occurs on distance servers, so you can use a nearby one to mitigate this.

You can try Surfshark without risk as it has a reliable 30-day money-back guarantee. I tested the refund process and received my money back within 5 business days after a quick chat with its 24/7 customer support.

Useful Features

• NoBorders and Camouflage Mode. NoBorders is automatically activated when it detects a restrictive network. Camouflage Mode is Surfshark’s obfuscation feature that masks your VPN traffic as regular internet traffic, making it harder for TikTok to detect VPN usage.
• GPS spoofing. Available on Android, this feature can match your device's GPS location to your VPN IP address, useful for getting new recommendations from other locations.
• IP Rotator. This feature periodically changes your IP address without disconnecting you, which can help avoid detection and potential shadowbans on TikTok.

Quick Comparison Table: TikTok VPN Features

This table compares the key features of our top-recommended TikTok VPNs. I've included details on obfuscation, which is crucial for avoiding detection, as well as speeds and server networks that impact your TikTok experience.

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.

Our Methodology for Testing VPNs for TikTok

We used several criteria to see which VPNs can safely access TikTok from anywhere. First, we tested servers in various countries to assess their abilities with TikTok. Security was also extensively checked with various leak tests, and we thoroughly vetted each vendor’s privacy policies. Lastly, we put the VPNs through rigorous speed trials.

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.

How To Avoid TikTok Shadowbans When Using a VPN

Avoiding a TikTok shadowban while using a VPN can be tricky because TikTok closely monitors activities to prevent misuse, and it tries to detect and prevent VPN use. However, if you need to use a VPN for privacy or other legitimate reasons, here are some tips to reduce the risk of a shadowban:

• Use a premium VPN. Opt for well-known, premium VPN services that don’t have a history of being flagged by TikTok or other apps. Avoid free VPNs as they likely use heavily-shared IP addresses that aren’t sufficiently rotated, which TikTok may already flag for suspicious activity.
• Stick to a single region. Switching your VPN location too often can trigger TikTok's suspicion, as it may appear like you're trying to manipulate your location for content or engagement benefits. Choose a region that matches your audience and stay consistent.
• Don’t engage in spammy behavior. Avoid mass following or unfollowing accounts, liking or commenting on too many videos in a short period, and posting content that violates TikTok’s community guidelines.
• Be mindful of TikTok’s guidelines. Ensure your content aligns with TikTok’s community guidelines, as shadowbans can occur for guideline violations, regardless of VPN usage. Make sure not to use copyrighted music or inappropriate content.
• Use a dedicated IP. Some VPNs offer dedicated IP addresses, which are assigned only to you. This makes your connection appear more stable and less like you’re part of a large pool of users, reducing the risk of being flagged for suspicious activity.
• Clear cache and use an Incognito mode. TikTok’s app can track cookies, IP addresses, and other identifiers. Before changing your VPN location, clear your cache or use incognito mode to avoid conflicts between your IP address and stored location data.
• Monitor your activity. After using a VPN, keep an eye on your video views, likes, and engagement metrics. If you notice a sudden and sharp decline, it may indicate a shadowban.

FAQs on VPNs for TikTok

Can I use a free VPN for TikTok?

Yes, but using a free VPN for TikTok is not recommended. They typically have overcrowded servers, resulting in slow connections that can make uploading or scrolling through videos frustrating. It’s better and safer to use a high-quality premium VPN with a tried-and-tested money-back guarantee. Unlike most free VPNs, they offer obfuscation, a key feature necessary to avoid shadowbans.

Is it legal to use a VPN with TikTok?

Using a VPN with TikTok is legal in most countries, but there are exceptions. Some nations, like China, Russia, and Iran, restrict or ban VPNs (and even TikTok). To stay on the safe side, use a VPN with strong obfuscation capabilities and stick to servers in countries where TikTok is freely available.

Always prioritize following local laws and TikTok's terms of service when using a VPN. TikTok itself doesn't ban VPNs outright, but it may restrict accounts showing activity patterns associated with VPN use.

Will using a VPN affect my TikTok algorithm?

Yes, using a VPN can influence your TikTok algorithm. When you connect to a VPN server in a different location, TikTok might show you content trending in that area, slightly shifting your “For You” Page. However, TikTok also considers your viewing habits, likes, and interactions. To minimize algorithm changes, stick to VPN servers in your country or nearby regions.

Where is TikTok banned?

TikTok is currently banned in several countries, but many of these are partial or temporary. India enacted a complete ban in 2020, and Pakistan has temporarily banned TikTok multiple times. With that said, it’s possible to safely access TikTok from anywhere with a VPN.

Bangladesh and Indonesia have also imposed temporary bans in the past. In the US, several states have banned TikTok on government devices, and a nationwide ban has been proposed. The UK, France, and many other countries have issued similar edicts about government infrastructure. Afghanistan banned the app in 2022 to prevent youth from being "misled."

Some nations have partial bans or restrictions, like Taiwan prohibiting TikTok on government devices, and potential bans are being discussed in Australia. The list of countries restricting TikTok is subject to change as governments reassess the app's data practices.

Should I use a VPN or a proxy for TikTok?

For TikTok, a VPN is generally a more reliable choice than a proxy. Proxies, while sometimes faster, often lack the security features of VPNs and may not effectively hide your real IP address from TikTok. VPNs offer superior security by encrypting all your internet traffic, shielding your online activity from potential eavesdroppers, including your ISP.

How do I set up a VPN on my phone for TikTok?

Simply download a VPN app from your device’s app store, log in, and connect. Just make sure to choose a provider that can reliably access TikTok from anywhere. Look for features like auto-connect or app-specific settings to ensure the VPN activates when you open TikTok. Before using TikTok, connect to a VPN server in a location where TikTok is freely available. This makes it possible to safely access TikTok from anywhere.

Get the Best VPN for TikTok

The best VPNs can safely access TikTok from anywhere without triggering shadowbans. The VPNs on this list offer strong obfuscation and robust iOS and Android apps to maintain your privacy without compromising your speeds for watching and uploading videos.

I recommend ExpressVPN for TikTok due to its superior obfuscation technology and fast speeds. Its wide server network can securely access TikTok from various locations, expanding your audience reach while its privacy policies make it one of the most trustworthy providers. You can try ExpressVPN with TikTok risk-free, thanks to its 30-day money-back guarantee.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs for TikTok...

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.

Rank

Provider

Our Score

Discount

Visit Website

1

9.9 /10

9.9 Our Score

Save 48%!

Find Out More

2

9.7 /10

9.7 Our Score

Save 83%!

Find Out More

3

9.5 /10

9.5 Our Score

Save 82%!

Find Out More

4

9.6 /10

9.6 Our Score

Save 74%!

Find Out More

5

9.3 /10

9.3 Our Score

Save 87%!

Find Out More