Does NordVPN Work in China? Full 2024 Setup Guide & Tips

NordVPN isn’t 100% reliable for China. Users often report complete connection failures, particularly during peak internet usage hours and major events. Fortunately, there are a few troubleshooting tips you can try to avoid downtime and keep your data protected.

However, you should know that there are some alternative VPNs that are more reliable in China. They offer stronger obfuscation technology to disguise your data as regular internet traffic, making them more suitable for use in the country. Plus, they regularly invest in keeping up with China’s ever-changing Great Firewall technology, which not all VPNs have the resources to do.

ExpressVPN is my top recommendation for China. Its automatic obfuscation on all servers and dedicated mirror sites helps maintain reliable access to the service from within China. You can try ExpressVPN with no financial risk since it has 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 China >>

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

How to Set Up NordVPN Before Traveling to China

Preparing your VPN before entering China is crucial since most VPN websites are blocked within the country. Here's how to configure NordVPN (or a more reliable alternative) for use in China:

1. Download NordVPN

Download NordVPN's apps for all your devices before traveling to China. Since the Great Firewall blocks most VPN websites, installing the software after arrival is challenging. I recommend also downloading ExpressVPN as a backup since it works more consistently in China and offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. Plus, it has a mirror website that you can use within China.

NordVPN's Plus plan and above includes extras like Threat Protection Pro, a password manager, and more

2. Configure the App

Enable Auto-connect so NordVPN connects to a server of your choice as soon as you connect to an unfamiliar network — this means your browsing is always protected by the VPN. Plus, you should enable the Kill Switch so certain apps automatically quit if the VPN connection drops. If you can, I recommend that you install NordVPN on your router so all your devices are automatically protected, including those that don’t natively support VPN apps.

Your trusted networks list lets you nominate which connections don't trigger the auto-connect feature

3. Select the NordLynx Protocol

Switch to the NordLynx protocol for better performance on Chinese networks. While OpenVPN with TCP port 443 works well as a backup, NordLynx often provides faster speeds. Go to Settings > General and change the protocol to NordLynx. For more tips on using a VPN on restrictive networks, check out our guide on how to bypass tough VPN blocks.

UDP connections are generally faster, but TCP can be more reliable on unstable networks

4. Choose a Server

Connect to servers in nearby countries for better speeds. Customer service recommends trying locations one by one to find the ones that work but suggested that servers in Japan, the US, and the UK are optimized for the best performance in China. I also recommend trying the obfuscated servers if you’re having trouble. You can save the working locations as favorites for quick access later.

NordVPN has multiple locations within Japan, the US, and the UK

5. Go Online Safely

With all of the above pointers, NordVPN has a greater chance of working in China. However, it’s not the most reliable option out there. Every customer support agent I spoke to was very clear that NordVPN can’t guarantee service in China, even with all of the troubleshooting tips they gave me.

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.

Best VPNs for China in 2024

Since NordVPN's performance in China is unreliable, we looked for alternative VPNs and found the best ones for keeping your data secure on restrictive networks. My top recommendations are known to consistently work in China and include features like mirror sites, obfuscation technology, and specialized protocols designed to bypass network restrictions while maintaining security.

1. ExpressVPN — Most Reliable Alternative to NordVPN for China With Automatic Obfuscation

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

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try ExpressVPN >

www.expressvpn.com

ExpressVPN is known to work more consistently in China thanks to automatic obfuscation on every server when you use the Automatic protocol. Its proprietary protocol, Lightway, is a good option too. It's open-source and uses a minimal code base, so it’s easier for developers to adjust it when new deep packet inspection (DPI) and blocking technologies emerge.

Multiple mirror sites provide reliable access to ExpressVPN's website and support from within China. Plus, it has a few optimized servers for use in China that you can find on its website or through customer support. Its apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android make it easy to connect and are a little slicker than NordVPN’s counterparts.

While more expensive than NordVPN at a starting price of $4.99/month, ExpressVPN offers substantial discounts on longer plans. Plus, you can try it with no financial risk as it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. I tested the refund process via 24/7 live chat and received my money back within a few days.

2. Astrill VPN — Premium Features Optimized for Chinese Networks

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Router Smart TV More

Try Astrill VPN >

www.Astrill_VPN.com

Astrill VPN's VIP package includes servers specifically optimized for China with reduced latency. The StealthVPN protocol effectively masks VPN traffic, while the Multi-hop feature routes connections through multiple countries for enhanced privacy. We experienced minimal speed loss with Astrill VPN during our tests on servers in Japan and Singapore.

The VPN is a bit pricier than ExpressVPN at $12.50/month, especially with the VIP add-on for optimized Asian servers. And it doesn't even offer a money-back guarantee. However, its dedicated China support team provides quick solutions when connection issues arise, so it could be worth it if you’re spending a lot of time in the country.

3. PrivateVPN — Budget-Friendly Option With Stealth VPN Mode for Restrictive Networks

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Router Smart TV More

Try PrivateVPN >

www.privatevpn.com

PrivateVPN's Stealth mode works effectively in China at an affordable price of $2/month. This protocol disguises your VPN traffic as a regular HTTPS connection, making it difficult for DPI to detect. Plus, we also found that PrivateVPN’s implementation of the L2TP protocol provided reliable connections on networks where other protocols were blocked.

While its network is smaller than ExpressVPN's, the servers are well-maintained to prevent overcrowding and slowdowns. Plus, you get 10 device connections and a 30-day money-back guarantee to test its performance in China.

Our Methodology for Testing VPNs for China

We prioritized testing VPNs with proven track records of working in China and maintaining reliable connections. This included evaluating specialized features like stealth protocols and obfuscation. We also measured connection stability during peak usage hours and major events when restrictions typically increase.

Our team continuously tests and verifies VPN performance in restrictive environments. To learn more about our comprehensive testing procedures and criteria, please refer to our detailed methodology page. Feel free to use this as the basis for your own testing.

Why NordVPN Sometimes Doesn't Work in China

NordVPN faces several challenges when operating in China due to the country's sophisticated internet restrictions. Here are the main reasons for its inconsistent performance:

• Deep Packet Inspection (DPI). China's firewall can identify and block VPN traffic patterns. NordVPN's standard protocols, even on obfuscated servers, can often be recognized and blocked.
• Server blocklisting. The Great Firewall regularly identifies and blocks known VPN server IP addresses. When NordVPN's servers get blocklisted, new ones must be deployed.
• Protocol restrictions. Many VPN protocols, including OpenVPN and IKEv2, are actively blocked. NordVPN's NordLynx protocol sometimes works but isn't consistently reliable.
• Limited obfuscation. Unlike the other services listed here, NordVPN doesn’t offer advanced obfuscation features to disguise the use of a VPN. While you can use its obfuscated servers, these aren’t always powerful enough to use in China.
• Peak time blocking. VPN blocking intensifies during political events, holidays, and peak internet usage hours, making NordVPN less reliable during these periods.

In our experience, most VPNs struggle to work in China because the country constantly updates the Great Firewall. While some VPNs have the resources to try and keep up, this isn’t the case for every provider. Even the best services may experience outages from time to time.

What to Do When NordVPN Stops Working in China

NordVPN's performance in China varies significantly depending on several factors, including your region within China, the time of year, and current internet restrictions. Here are the best troubleshooting tips we have for using NordVPN in China.

• Try a different server. If you’re struggling to connect, the server you’re using may have been blocklisted by the Great Firewall. Some NordVPN users have also reported that its performance differs between different cities and provinces. Try connecting to a server in Japan, the UK, or the US instead, as its customer support suggested.
• Try a different protocol. Standard VPN protocols often don’t work in China. Instead, try using NordLynx. If that doesn’t work, then try OpenVPN TCP via port 443. This port is used for HTTPS traffic, so it’s extremely unlikely that it’ll be blocked by firewalls.
• Download before you travel. China blocks VPN websites, and app stores in the country don’t list VPN apps. If you can, download the VPN before traveling to the country. If this isn’t an option, reach out to NordVPN’s customer support team, and they may be able to send you the download files directly.
• Connect to a nearby server. This usually happens if you’ve connected to a distant server, as this will greatly reduce your speeds and increase latency (lag). Try connecting to a server in Japan or Singapore, as these are closer to China.
• Try a backup VPN. China is known to strengthen its blocking tools during major holidays or events, and NordVPN users have reported this usually causes outages. I recommend having a backup VPN ready to use in case this happens — you can find some great options in our guide to the best VPNs for China.

Is It Legal to Use NordVPN in China?

Technically, it’s not legal to use NordVPN in China because the state hasn’t approved its use. While many individuals and businesses use VPNs daily, the Chinese government maintains strict control over approved VPN services, which includes being able to monitor connections. Here's what you need to know about the legal restrictions facing VPN use in China:

• Government restrictions. Only state-approved VPNs are officially permitted, and unauthorized VPNs are heavily restricted. Their websites are blocked, and you won’t find their apps in the country’s app stores.
• Business exemptions. Some international companies receive special permission to use VPNs for business purposes. However, as part of this, they must ensure that all employees with access to the VPN do so in compliance with Chinese law.
• Individual use. Individuals may not use permitted VPNs for personal use, even if they have access to one through their place of employment. Chinese citizens have faced heavy fines in the past for using unauthorized VPNs for personal use, but there have been no publicly reported cases of tourists being penalized.
• Enforcement variations. The level of VPN restrictions can vary by region and time period, especially during sensitive political events.

If you want more information, read our full guide to the legality of VPNs in China.

FAQs on Using NordVPN in China

Does NordVPN work in China according to Reddit reviews?

According to recent Reddit discussions, NordVPN's performance in China is inconsistent at best. Many users report frequent connection issues, particularly during peak hours and major events. Some have had success using the NordLynx protocol with the obfuscated servers, while others struggle to maintain stable connections even with these features. The general consensus suggests our recommended VPNs are more reliable options for China.

Is NordVPN owned by China?

NordVPN operates independently of Chinese ownership or control. Its parent company, Nord Security, is headquartered in Lithuania and adheres to strict European data protection regulations. This means your data stays protected from surveillance concerns. NordVPN also has an independently verified no-logs policy.

Can I download NordVPN in China?

NordVPN's website is blocked in China, making direct downloads tricky. You can download and install the VPN apps on all your devices before entering China. Once installed, you can still use the app, though connection reliability varies. However, there are alternative options that have mirror sites specifically for use in restrictive locations.

Does NordVPN have servers in China?

No, NordVPN doesn't operate servers within mainland China. Instead, it offers servers in nearby countries like Japan, Singapore, and Hong Kong for users in China. This is common practice among VPN providers due to China's strict data regulations. However, other services have servers in Macau, within China but outside the restrictions of the Great Firewall.

What is the best NordVPN alternative for China?

Our #1 recommended VPN consistently outperforms NordVPN in China with its automatic obfuscation and dedicated mirror sites. Its Lightway protocol maintains stable connections even during periods of increased restrictions, and regular server updates help maintain a reliable service.

To summarize, these are the best alternatives to NordVPN 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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