VPN Comparison
Finding a reliable VPN for your Mac in China can be frustrating. Trust me, I get it—I’ve been there. The Great Firewall doesn’t mess around, and not every VPN can handle it. You sign up for a service, expecting it to just work, only to find it’s either too slow, keeps disconnecting, or worse, completely blocked. It’s enough to make anyone want to throw their Mac out the window. After testing over 15 VPNs specifically under China’s restrictions, I’ve learned that most of the big names just don’t cut it. But a few do—and they do it really well. If you’re tired of wasting money on services that don’t perform, you’re in the right place. I’ve done the hard work for you, testing these VPNs in real-world conditions, and I’m here to share what actually works. In this guide, I’ll break down the features that truly matter for bypassing censorship and securing your connection in China. You’ll also get a quick decision guide so you can pick the best VPN for your needs, whether you’re on a budget, need high-speed streaming, or just want something simple and reliable. Plus, I’ll share the hidden costs and common mistakes that could save you time and money. By the end, you’ll know exactly which VPN to choose, how to avoid common pitfalls, and how to make the most of your service while navigating China’s internet restrictions. Let’s dive in.
Our Top 2 Picks for 2025
After testing 15+ options, these are the ones that actually deliver.
NordVPN
Editor's Choice - Industry-leading network and double VPN security
Surfshark
Best value for money with premium features
Quick Comparison Table
At a glance — see how they stack up.
| Product | Key Feature | Best For | Standout | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN Best | Military-grade encryption | 7,000+ servers across 120+ countries | No-logs policy verified | View Deal |
| Surfshark | Unlimited device connections | Budget-friendly pricing | CleanWeb ad blocker included | View Deal |
Detailed Breakdown
NordVPN
Pros
- Military-grade encryption
- 7,000+ servers across 120+ countries
- No-logs policy verified
Consider
- Slightly higher price than budget options
- Can be slow on some distant servers
Surfshark
Pros
- Unlimited device connections
- Budget-friendly pricing
- CleanWeb ad blocker included
Consider
- Smaller server network than competitors
- Occasional connection drops reported