How to Use WhatsApp in China on Any Device in 2024

The Great Firewall of China blocks many apps and websites, including WhatsApp, because its contents can’t be easily monitored. The government restricts internet traffic using deep packet inspection (DPI) to filter out and block unwanted online activities.

A good VPN replaces your IP address with another country to securely use WhatsApp in China. It also encrypts your internet activity, concealing it from prying eyes. Unfortunately, China constantly adds VPNs to its blocklist, so finding one that works is challenging.

After we tested 40+ VPNs, ExpressVPN proved the most reliable for using WhatsApp in China. All its servers are automatically obfuscated, meaning it won't get detected and blocked. ExpressPN also has a mirror site, so you can download it even if you're already in China. You can also try it risk-free since it has a 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans. 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 VPNs for Using WhatsApp in China in 2024

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 Use WhatsApp in China on iPhone and Android

To safely access WhatsApp in China, use a VPN to reroute your internet traffic through a private server in a different country. This makes your online activities invisible to third parties, like ISPs, but only the best VPNs for China reliably work in the country.

The steps below provide an in-depth guide to using WhatsApp in China on your iPhone, but the process is similar on Android — you'll just need to go to the Google App Store to download the apps.

1. Install a VPN

Choose a VPN that offers full features for iOS and Android devices. Of all the VPNs we tested, ExpressVPN is my top pick for its ease of use, automatic obfuscation, and robust security features. It also has a mirror site, so you can download the VPN in China — contact ExpressVPN support, and they’ll send you the link.

I installed ExpressVPN on all my devices, as it allows 8 simultaneous connections

2. Activate Advanced Security Features

Make sure the VPN's obfuscation is enabled. This makes your VPN traffic appear like regular internet traffic to avoid getting blocked. While many VPNs require you to manually turn on obfuscation, ExpressVPN uses it by default. This helps you stay undetected by the Great Firewall.

Double-check that the kill switch is on to stay safe online in China when using WhatsApp.

A kill switch protects you from accidental data exposure if the VPN drops

3. Connect to a Server

Choose a server nearby for the best speed. You can also contact customer service for guidance on the best server choices. This will save you frustration and allow you to access WhatsApp without problems.

Choose a server location by clicking on the 3 dots next to the server name

4. Download WhatsApp

Once connected, you can safely download WhatsApp from your App Store. Now, you can chat, call, and share videos while keeping your connection private.

If you have WhatsApp already installed on your iPhone, simply open the app

Best VPNs to Access WhatsApp in China in 2024

To make an informed decision, take a look at our quick side-by-side comparison of the most relevant features of VPNs that work in China to securely use WhatsApp. These listed VPNs also make it possible to securely use Google in China.

1. ExpressVPN — Easy to Download and Use in China With Mirror Site and Intuitive Design

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

Unlike most VPN websites blocked in China, ExpressVPN offers a mirror site for downloading within the country, and regularly changes the URL to avoid blocks. Contact support@expressvpn.zendesk.com for the most current URL. Once installed, ExpressVPN apps are straightforward and can be used across all major devices. During testing, we could use WhatsApp immediately after connecting to a server in Japan.

Thanks to ExpressVPN's verified no-logs policy, your online activities, like the websites you visit, will be kept private — none of your data gets stored or shared. Plus, all servers run on RAM (Trusted Server technology), which means your data gets wiped every time the server restarts. ExpressVPN's headquarters are also in the privacy-friendly British Virgin Islands, outside the global intelligence-sharing pact of the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliances. So, your data will be kept from authorities, even when requested.

On the downside, plans are more expensive starting at $4.99/month. However, you can save using its latest deals and discounts; I got 61% of my long-term subscription. You can try ExpressVPN risk-free as it's supported by a 30-day money-back guarantee. I also liked that it accepts Bitcoin payments for additional anonymity.

2. AstrillVPN — Strong Obfuscation for a Reliable WhatsApp Experience in China

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Router Smart TV More

Try Astrill VPN >

www.Astrill_VPN.com

Astrill VPN's StealthVPN protocol obfuscates your VPN traffic to freely use WhatsApp in China — your VPN traffic will be seen as normal internet traffic. Additionally, Smart mode masks your VPN use by using a Hong Kong IP for Chinese services and a foreign IP for international traffic. To access WhatsApp in China, ensure StealthVPN and Smart mode are activated. When I tested Astrill VPN, the Smart mode was automatically enabled for iOS but not Android.

You can optimize your connection in China by choosing your encryption level. AES 256-bit is recommended for robust security and 128-bit for speed, as there are fewer levels of encryption. Like ExpressVPN, Astrill VPN keeps your data private with a kill switch and IP/DNS leak protection. The VPN has a hefty price tag and no money-back guarantee. However, you get 1 month for free if you refer a friend and they sign up.

2. PrivateVPN — Top-Notch Security Features for Safe WhatsApp Messaging in China

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Router Smart TV More

Try PrivateVPN >

www.privatevpn.com

PrivateVPN protects your data in China with AES 256-bit encryption — the same level governments and cybersecurity companies use. It also uses a kill switch and IP/WebRTC/DNS leak protection to keep your online identity and activities private in China. After testing 12 servers, our real IP addresses remained private.

One minor con is PrivateVPN's smaller server network. However, we had no problem finding a server that worked with WhatsApp. I recommend nearby servers, like Hong Kong, to minimize speed loss. This prevents choppy video calls. You may need to use the OpenConnect app in China for the best functionality — PrivateVPN provides a step-by-step guide to help set this up.

Our Methodology for Testing VPNs for Using WhatsApp in China

To identify VPNs that allow you to easily use WhatsApp in China, we considered several key factors. First, we tested and verified that all VPNs on our list have obfuscation technology and proven track records of working in China. We also reviewed their security and privacy features to confirm that you'll be kept anonymous online.

How to Use WhatsApp in China on Desktop

If you also want to use WhatsApp Web in China and protect your PC from online threats, here’s how to do it:

1. Download a VPN

Choose a VPN that will protect your online privacy. Read a VPN's privacy policy to determine what data they collected and if its no-logs policy has been audited. Whether you use Windows, Mac, or Linux, ExpressVPN has native apps that work on all major devices, even routers.

ExpressVPN's installation process is very quick — its Windows app took me only 2 minutes

2. Connect to a Server

Launch the app and choose a server. Use the search bar to find a specific server preference, or type “Pick for Me” and allow ExpressVPN to find the best-performing one for your network.

Click the star icon next to a server to add it to your list of Favorites

3. Go to WhatsApp Web

Type web.whatsapp.com into your browser and use your phone's QR code to safely stream WhatsApp to your PC.

Make sure your VPN is connected the entire time

More Ways To Access WhatsApp in China

While VPNs are certainly the most secure and easiest way to use WhatsApp in China, there are other ways you can try as well:

• Download and install Tor Browser before arriving in China. Connect to the Tor network to route your traffic through multiple servers, making it difficult for the Great Firewall to detect and block your activity. Note that Tor does significantly slow down speeds.
• Set up a Shadowsocks server and configure your device. Shadowsocks is a proxy designed to bypass network restrictions by disguising VPN traffic as regular traffic. However, it does not encrypt your connection.
• Purchase a SIM card that offers international roaming. Enable roaming in China to bypass local internet restrictions. Your data should be routed through your home country’s network. Again, this will not secure your internet from online threats or prying eyes.
• Buy a portable WiFi hotspot with a pre-installed VPN. These devices can be purchased before traveling to China and provide secure internet access by routing traffic through a VPN server.
• Set up a reliable proxy service on your device. Similarly to VPNs, proxies can help bypass internet restrictions by routing your traffic through a server located outside China. But proxies don't provide the security features required to keep you safe online.
• Switch to cloud-based messaging services that are not blocked in China. Services like Telegram or Signal may offer similar functionalities to WhatsApp and can be accessed without a VPN, but it's not fail proof.
• Access your home computer remotely using a remote desktop application. Connect to your home computer, which is outside China, and use WhatsApp through the remote connection.
• Install a browser extension that offers proxy or VPN services. Extensions like Hola or Browsec can help you access WhatsApp by routing your traffic through servers in other countries.
• Subscribe to an international data plan from your mobile carrier. These plans often route data through servers outside China, allowing you to bypass local restrictions.
• Invest in a satellite internet connection, like Starlink. Satellite internet is not subject to the same restrictions as terrestrial internet connections and may provide unrestricted access to WhatsApp. However, your IP is left unprotected, so you may need a VPN after all.

FAQs Using WhatsApp in China With a VPN

Is it legal to use WhatsApp in China with a VPN?

WhatsApp isn't exactly illegal in China, but the app is blocked. The Chinese government has blocked it because they believe it spreads "undesirable" information. However, people visiting the country can use a reliable VPN to access WhatsApp securely. Still, familiarize yourself with the local laws regarding VPNs and WhatsApp before visiting to avoid breaking any rules.

Can I access WhatsApp in China with a free VPN?

It's doubtful that you'll be able to access WhatsApp in China with a free VPN. Plus, free VPNs might put your data at risk since they lack robust security features. To have reliable access to WhatsApp, opt for a reputable paid VPN that prioritizes security and has a proven track record of working in China is better.

Some free VPNs have also been found to embed malware into their app, and others sell user data to marketers. Even if you can find a free VPN that works in China, your speed and bandwidth will be limited.

Why is WhatsApp blocked in China?

WhatsApp is blocked in China due to the country's internet censorship policies, commonly referred to as the “Great Firewall.” The government blocks apps and websites that it perceives as threats to national security or social stability. Visitors to the country can use a reliable VPN to access WhatsApp.

Platforms like WhatsApp, which offer encrypted messaging, make it challenging for the authorities to monitor communications. Hence, it was blocked to favor domestic apps that comply with the government's surveillance and data requirements.

Can I use WhatsApp in China without a VPN?

Using WhatsApp in China without a VPN is not usually possible. However, some travelers have reported occasional success with accessing WhatsApp in certain locations or during specific times. Still, downloading a reliable VPN tested for China is the best solution for consistent and secure access.

Is there a WhatsApp alternative for China?

Yes, there is a popular WhatsApp alternative in China called WeChat. However, WeChat adheres to censorship laws and is monitored by the government, so your communications won’t be private. To protect your online safety and stay anonymous, use a secure China VPN, and stick to WhatsApp or another encrypted messaging app.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs for using WhatsApp in 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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