In China, the Internet censorship system – commonly known as The Great Firewall (GFW)– continuously blocks access to thousands of international websites and applications such as Google, Facebook or WhatsApp. Therefore, for tourists, foreigners living in China or local residents, VPN became an important tool to maintain digital freedom and access the services needed for work and personal connections.
However, not all VPNs can bypass this strict censorship. GFW uses a variety of advanced technologies, including DPI, to detect and block common types of VPN traffic. This makes many services nearly impossible to use within China. So, to choose a truly effective VPN, you need to prioritize services that have the featuresobfuscation– technology that “hides” VPN data and blends it in with regular internet traffic, thereby avoiding detection by GFW.
In this tutorial, Hidemium Antidetect Browser will help you eliminate redundant information and focus on what matters most. We analyze the details Top 7 VPNs for China in 2026 – services that have proven their stability in a highly regulated environment. This article will delve into the technology each provider uses, real-world performance, device compatibility, and factors to consider before choosing.
1. Why do you need to use an anti-detection browser when operating in China?
China's internet environment is notorious for its strict censorship and sophisticated tracking technologies. To ensure data security, avoid detection, and maintain work efficiency, Antidetect Browser becomes an essential tool. Here are some important reasons:
Strict Supervision & Regulation from the Chinese Government
China maintains a very tight digital surveillance system. The use of anti-detection browser Allows you to operate multiple accounts in a separate environment, minimizing the risk of being detected or flagged by the system for irregularities.
Support managing multiple accounts on e-commerce platforms
Major platforms like Taobao, JD.com, and Pinduoduo apply extremely strict identification mechanisms. If using the same device or IP, the account is very easy to be scanned and locked.
Browser antidetect helps create independent browser profiles, allowing you to scale your sales while staying safe.
Run multiple social media accounts without getting flagged
For users managing multiple accounts WeChat, Douyin (TikTok), Weibo, the platform's algorithms always keep track of device fingerprints and IP addresses.
Anti-detection browser supports creating individual fingerprints, helping you avoid being suspected of abnormal behavior and operate more stably.
Protecting privacy in a high-risk digital environment
In China, online privacy and security issues have always been a major concern.
Antidetect browser help you:
Hide real IP
Encrypt browsing data
Block identity tracking
Thanks to this, all online activities are maximally protected.
Safer when trading cryptocurrencies
Crypto traders in China often manage multiple wallets and accounts on different exchanges. In a world of constantly changing cryptocurrency policies, maintaining digital anonymity is crucial.
Anti-detection browser helps hide all traces of the device, ensuring transactions are secure and difficult to trace.
>>> Learn more: ExpressVPN Review 2025: Pros – Cons and Standout Features
2. List of top 7 free VPNs for users in China
2.1 Tenant VPN – The optimal VPN solution for users in China
VPN Tegana is a leading solution, specifically designed for users who need to access the internet in heavily censored environments. It is a reliable choice to bypassThe Great Firewall of China, helping Tenant became a strong candidate for the title Best VPN in China. The system was developed from scratch, focusing on solving sophisticated network filtering and censorship problems.
Outstanding advantages of Tenant VPN
Tenant VPN stands out with multiprotocol technology, combining superior speed from WireGuard and advanced encryption capabilities of V2Ray/XRay. This solution gives users flexibility in every situation, from high-quality streaming to in-depth data inspection.
Special features in China
Tegant's strengths are Proprietary V2Ray/XRay protocol, supports iPhone, iPad and Mac. Unlike standard protocols that are easily detected, V2Ray/XRay uses advanced obfuscation techniques such as xtls-rprx-vision-reality and SSL spoofing methods. Thanks to this, VPN traffic is Disguised as regular HTTPS, helping to bypass the Great Firewall's automated censorship system.
With superior obfuscation, Tenant VPN provides stable connections to blocked services like Google, WhatsApp, and international news sites. The app also clearly marks the optimized server, making it easy for users to choose the right connection.
Server performance and networking
In addition to obfuscation technology, Tenant VPN also possesses 10 Gbps high-speed server network, ensuring a smooth viewing experience 4K video, play online games or download large files. The application displays the status of each server, helping users make smart, transparent and convenient connection decisions.
User experience and pricing
Tenant VPN offers Intuitive and easy-to-use interface, especially on Apple devices. Switching protocols and choosing servers becomes simple and convenient. Applicable services Freemium model, allowing for a free trial before upgrading. The free plan is sufficient to test its effectiveness in China, although it has time limits and displays ads.
Flexible paid plans, subscribe by week, month or year – perfect for short-term travelers. While V2Ray/XRay features are currently only available for Apple, Android users can still enjoy the speed WireGuard fast and policy logs, ensuring absolute privacy.
2.2 ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN has long been a top choice for users in China, standing out for its consistent performance and advanced technology specifically designed to bypass complex network censorship. Lightway Protocol The exclusive feature not only optimizes speed but also protects anonymity, making VPN traffic look like normal internet traffic. This feature is automatically activated, making ExpressVPN a friendly and easy-to-use solution for bypassing the Firewall without complicated manual settings.
The ExpressVPN app is intuitive, lightweight, and compatible with a wide range of devices, from computers and smartphones to smart TVs and routers. For travelers or expats, this means easy access to familiar services like Gmail, WhatsApp, and BBC iPlayer without any hassle.
Outstanding features and performance
ExpressVPN's strength lies in its core technology and server infrastructure TrustedServer ensures that every server runs entirely on RAM, does not store data on the hard drive, and automatically erases information after each boot, enhancing security in a restricted network environment. In addition, the extensive server network, including locations near China such as Hong Kong, Japan, and Singapore, helps reduce latency and improve domestic user experience.
Obfuscation feature: Automatically disguise VPN traffic on all apps when "Auto" mode is selected.
Lightway Protocol: Modern, lightweight protocol that optimizes speed, security, and stability in difficult network conditions.
Multi-device support: Connect up to 8 devices simultaneously, including dedicated software for Aircove routers.
Customer support: 24/7 live chat support, very helpful for solving connection issues in China.
Prices and usage tips
ExpressVPN is a premium VPN service, so it's more expensive than some of its competitors, but many users find it a worthy investment due to its reliability and convenience. All plans come with 30-day refund policy, allowing you to test VPN performance in China without risk.
Tips for effective use:
Install the ExpressVPN app on all devices before going to China, as their website is blocked in the country.
Keep our 24/7 live chat link or support email handy so you can reach out when needed.
If you have trouble connecting, try switching to different server locations; sometimes "Smart Location" isn't the best option. Understanding and applying troubleshooting steps can help maintain a stable connection even with the most powerful VPN.
2.3 NordVPN
NordVPN has long been one of the most prominent and trusted VPN services on the market – and for good reason. It offers a perfect blend of speed, security and those specialized features designed specifically for heavily censored regions like China. Protocol NordLynx, developed based on the WireGuard platform, optimizes connection performance, while the system Obfuscated Servers is also able to bypass Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) technology Great Firewall. This is also the reason why NordVPN becomes one of the brightest candidates when it comes to Good VPN for China.
The hidden server feature is designed to be quick for users to activate: just open the app, select the item "Hidden Server", and the entire technical processing will be performed automatically. This “one-touch” mechanism makes it easy for beginners to use without any specialized knowledge. In addition, NordVPN also integrates Threat Protection, which is tasked with blocking malware, preventing trackers, and adding a layer of protection when browsing the web from China.
Outstanding Performance & Features
NordVPN has a powerful infrastructure with over thousands of servers worldwide, ensuring superior speed and stable connectivity. For users in China, the most notable point is the Encrypted server, an important factor in avoiding censorship and maintaining a stable connection. The service also supports Meshnet, allowing the creation of private networks between devices, suitable for securely accessing data or services from abroad.
Hidden server: Quick access from a dedicated server list, capable of disguising VPN traffic as regular HTTPS traffic.
NordLynx Protocol: Modern protocol with high speed, low latency, ideal for watching movies and video calling.
Additional features: Advanced packages offer more NordPass (password manager) and NordLocker (encrypted cloud storage).
Customer support: 24/7 live chat helps quickly handle any connection issues, especially useful in environments like China.
Actual price & notes
NordVPN offers competitive prices, which are especially attractive when signing up for a long term with deep discounts. While the monthly plan is more expensive, the 2 years offers a reasonable price for a premium service. In addition, all packages include a 30-day money back policy, allowing you to freely experience and test your ability to bypass censorship in China before deciding to commit long-term.
2.4 Surfshark – Best VPN for Users in China
Surfshark is quickly becoming one of the top-rated VPNs in China thanks to its Outstanding value and powerful features With the ability Unlimited simultaneous connections on a single account, Surfshark is the ideal choice for families, individuals who own multiple devices, or small businesses.
One of Surfshark's standout strengths is “Camouflage Mode”, which helps mask VPN traffic to look like a normal internet connection. This feature is especially important in China, where many VPN services are at risk of being detected and blocked.
Combined with “No Borders Regime” Surfshark automatically detects network restrictions and recommends the best server to bypass firewalls. This allows users to have a safe and smooth internet experience, even in complex digital environments. It is the perfect choice fortourists, foreigners or anyone in need Secure your entire device while saving costs.
Surfshark's Outstanding Features
Camouflage Mode: Automatically enabled when using OpenVPN, making VPN traffic undetectable, ideal for use in China.
Unlimited device protection: One account can protect all your devices, from phones, laptops, to smart TVs.
Dynamic MultiHop: Enhance security by routing traffic through two VPN servers, creating an extra layer of encryption and making it difficult to track.
CleanWeb:Blocks ads, trackers, and malware, helping Speed up web browsing and protect privacy.
Competitive prices: Affordable long term plans with a 30-day money back guarantee, helping users feel secure in their experience.
Prices and usage tips
Surfshark stands out as Affordable yet feature-packed VPN, especially the long-term packages that offer superior value compared to high-end competitors. Although performance sometimes fluctuates when network control is increased, Unlimited device connectivity and affordable price still makes Surfshark a popular choice.
Pro Tip: Before you go to China, install Surfshark and set up the OpenVPN (TCP) protocol to ensure Camouflage Mode is enabled. If you have any connection issues, 24/7 support is available to provide a list of optimized servers for users in China.
Additionally, with the Surfshark One package, users will enjoy additional antivirus software, a private search engine, and a data breach alert system, providing a comprehensive security solution in a single package.
2.5 Astrill VPN
Astrill VPN stands out as a premium, specialized VPN service, often recommended by expats and long-time residents of China. The brand has built its reputation on powerful technology, specifically designed to bypass strict censorship systems such as Great Firewall of China. Two proprietary protocols StealthVPN and OpenWeb is the “heart” of Astrill, providing absolute anonymity and effectively hiding VPN activity even on tightly controlled networks.
Although less well known to the general public, Astrill VPN is still a reliable choice for those who want a quick connection without waiting. Instead of focusing on flashy marketing, Astrill focuses on actual performance, becoming the preferred solution for businesses, journalists and anyone who needs an internet connection and uncensored from mainland China.
Outstanding features and performance
Astrill's strengths come from features optimized for harsh internet environments:
StealthVPN: Anti-detection protocol, even under deep packet inspection (DPI), for safe internet access.
OpenWeb: The protocol runs directly on the browser, fast and convenient to access websites.
VIP amenities: Upgrade option allows access to optimized servers in Asia, prioritizing bandwidth, reducing latency and increasing connection speeds.
App Guard: Allows you to limit some applications to only connect to the internet when VPN is active, providing maximum data protection.
Router support: Dedicated app helps install VPN on compatible routers, protecting the entire home network.
Prices and usage tips
Astrill VPN is one of the more expensive premium services on the market, reflecting its position specialized tools. While there is no standard refund policy, Astrill does offer 7-day free trial on a number of servers. At this price point, Astrill is suitable for users who have tried other options and want to make a long-term investment in a high-quality VPN solution.
Tips for use:
Install Astrill before entering China to ensure a stable connection.
Activate App Guard to prevent important apps from connecting to the internet when the VPN is off.
Test and secure your system against DNS leaks, providing absolute protection for your browsing activities.
Astrill's support team responds quickly, helping to resolve issues promptly when needed.
2.6 Proton VPN
ProtonVPN VPN is one of the most powerful options when looking for VPN used in China, especially suitable for people who prioritize security and transparency Based in Switzerland – a country known for its strict data protection regulations – Proton VPN operates on a philosophy of absolute security. Thanks to its open source and regularly audited by independent parties, the reliability of this service is superior to many competitors in the market.
The most impressive point of Proton VPN lies in Stealth protocol developed by them. This protocol helps to bypass censorship and DPI (deep packet inspection), working effectively even before Great Firewall– one of the most powerful internet control systems in the world.
All security elements are integrated into the easy-to-use application interface. Most notably, Secure Core, the feature routes traffic through multiple highly protected servers before reaching its final destination. This enhances user privacy. Although speeds can sometimes be inconsistent in China, thanks to continuous improvements, Proton VPN remains a reliable choice for users looking for secure access.
Key Features & Performance
Proton VPN's core strengths come from multi-layered security systems.
Stealth Protocol Helps disguise VPN traffic as regular internet traffic, helping to bypass advanced blocking mechanisms.
Secure Core combined with ad blocker NetShield Provides a comprehensive shield against tracking and surveillance.
At the same time, Proton VPN supports WireGuard, which helps speed up video viewing, streaming, or web browsing once the connection is stable.
Summary of outstanding features:
Stealth Protocol: Specially designed to avoid detection in heavily censored countries like China.
Secure Core: Routing through servers located in privacy-respecting regions.
Open source & audited: All apps are third-party tested.
Free Package: Useful to install and get familiar with before moving to China (no firewall bypass support).
Price & Practical Usage Tips
Proton VPN offers a wide range of service plans, including free packages, suitable for initial app experience. However, important features for users in China – such as Stealth– only available in paid plans. Competitive premium pricing and support 30-day money back guarantee, allowing you to experiment without risk.
Helpful tips:
Let's Install and create a Proton VPN account before going to China.
Once you arrive, you can upgrade to a paid plan to activate Stealth and use it normally.
If you have connection problems, try:
switch between Stealth and WireGuard,
or switch to a Japan/Singapore server for improved speed.
You can also contact the Proton team to receive a list of optimized services exclusively for users in China.
2.7 VyprVPN
VyprVPN is one of the most trusted and veteran VPN services out there, known for its strong privacy protection and proprietary technology that effectively bypasses censorship. The highlight that makes VyprVPN a top choice in China is its protocol Chameleon. This technology encrypts packet metadata, helping to bypass deep packet inspection (DPI) – the method the Great Firewall often uses to detect and block VPN traffic.
In addition, VyprVPN owns its own server and DNS systems, giving them better control over security, limiting third-party risks and ensuring stable performance. For users in China, this provides a secure, reliable connection to access global services such as Google, YouTube or other international platforms. VyprVPN's application is also designed to be intuitive, making it easy for users to enable the Chameleon protocol and connect quickly.
Outstanding features and performance
VyprVPN's core strength is its protocol Chameleon, specifically designed to bypass heavily censored and restricted networks. In addition to Chameleon, VyprVPN still supports popular protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN, but in China, Chameleon always gives the most stable results.
The service has also undergone multiple independent audits to confirm its policies no logs, ensuring that all users' online activities are kept private.
Key features include:
Chameleon Protocol: Hide VPN traffic, bypass DPI and block censorship.
Self-owned infrastructure: Self-manage entire servers and DNS, increasing security and performance control.
Audited no-log policy: Make sure not to store activity or connection logs.
Multi-device support: Friendly app for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android and many other platforms.
Prices and usage tips
VyprVPN is competitively priced and offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, making it easy for users to test out its performance in China without worrying about costs. Some users have reported that international server speeds are sometimes less stable than other top VPNs, but once activated Chameleon, connections in China are often much smoother and more reliable than with other protocols.
Helpful tips: When using in China, go to settings manually select Chameleon protocol. Although “Auto” mode still works sometimes, activating Chameleon directly will help to bypass the Great Firewall more stably.
Thanks to its ability to unblock region-restricted content, VyprVPN is also a good choice for users who want to access services, platforms, or content from their home country securely and anonymously.
3.Comparison Table of 7 Best VPNs Working in China
VPN Provider | Deployment complexity 🔄 | Resource requirements | Expected results | Ideal use case 💡 | Main advantages |
| VPN Tegana | Medium – Advanced V2Ray/XRay for Apple; Simple WireGuard on other platforms | High – 10Gbps server, uTLS & SSL fallback technology | Stable censorship bypass, very fast speed | People in highly censored areas; need multi-device security | Advanced obfuscation technology, no-log, free trial |
| ExpressVPN | Low – Easy to use app, Lightway protocol | Average – Stable RAM-only server | Strong DPI protection, smooth geo-unblocking | People who travel a lot and need stable access to China | Strong encryption, multi-device support, 30-day money-back guarantee |
| NordVPN | Low – Obfuscation enabled 1-touch | Medium – NordLynx + lots of extra features | High speed, efficient DPI overshoot | People who want to balance speed - security - convenience | Transparent pricing, audited security, well concealed |
| Surfshark | Low – Intuitive App, Camouflage Mode | Medium – Unlimited devices, ad/malware blocking | Good speed, stable access to China | Family or multi-device user | Unlimited devices, strong obfuscation, cheap price |
| Astrill VPN | Cao – Exclusive protocol optimized for Asia | High – Premium price, with dedicated IP add-on | Very stable in China, heavy censorship optimized | Long-term residents or expats in China | Sustainable connection, strong specific protocol |
| Proton VPN | Medium – Open source app, Stealth protocol | Medium – Multi-hop, ad/malware filtering | High security, China performance depends on region | Transparency & Privacy Prioritizer | Independently audited, free version, strong security |
| VyprVPN | Medium – Proprietary Chameleon Protocol | Medium – Own entire network & DNS | Avoid blocking good VPN, stable security | People in restricted countries need high anonymity | Proprietary Obfuscation, Self-Managed Infrastructure |
4. How to choose the right free Chinese VPN
Choosing an effective free Chinese VPN is not only based on the free factor but also needs to consider the following important criteria:
Bypassing China's Firewall: Prioritize real-world VPNs that are proven to bypass the "Great Firewall" – China's strict internet censorship system.
Strong security: Choose a VPN that uses advanced encryption technology, keeps no user logs (no-log), and integrates additional security features like kill switch and DNS leak protection.
Stable connection speed: A quality VPN needs to maintain high speeds to ensure a smooth experience when surfing the web, watching videos, or working remotely.
Clear Privacy Policy: Prioritize providers that commit to not collecting user data, ensuring absolute privacy.
Reasonable features within the free range: Even though it is a free version, the VPN should still fully meet basic needs such as a reasonable number of servers, bandwidth limits that are not too strict.
Reliable Connections: Avoid VPNs that are slow or prone to disconnection. Read real reviews to find the most stable solution for your needs.
>>> Learn more:Top 10 Best Free VPN Apps for Android in 2025
5. Potential risks of using a free Chinese VPN
Besides certain benefits, free VPNs still have many potential risks that users need to be aware of before choosing:
Limited security: Unlike paid VPNs, many free services lack advanced security features like ad blocking, anti-malware, or data leak protection. This leaves your personal information more vulnerable to intrusion.
Privacy risks: Some free VPNs may silently collect browsing data and sell it to third parties, putting you at risk of losing control of your personal information.
Limited servers: Free VPNs' server systems are often few and unevenly distributed, leading to weak connections or high latency.
Low data limits: Many free VPNs only allow a limited amount of data per day, which can cause interruptions if you use them to watch videos or work continuously.
Unstable speeds: Providers often throttle bandwidth for free users, causing access speeds to drop significantly, especially during peak hours.
>>> Learn more: Proxy, VPN and Antidetected Browser Comparison – What Are the Main Differences?
6. Answers to frequently asked questions about Free China VPN
To help you better understand when choosing and using Free China VPN, below are common questions that many people are interested in:
6.1 Are VPNs allowed in China?
In China, only government-licensed VPN services are considered legal. Providers must have a license to operate and comply with requirements to store access logs and share data with authorities. This means that user privacy may not be completely guaranteed, increasing the risk of personal information being leaked.
6.2 Why use a VPN when in China?
VPN is an indispensable solution when you live, work or travel in China. With a strict censorship system, many popular platforms such as Gmail, Google, Instagram, Snapchat,... are blocked. VPN helps you bypass national firewalls, access international websites and at the same time encrypt data, protect privacy in a strictly controlled network environment.
6.3 Does VPN work 100% stable in China?
No VPN service can guarantee 100% flawless performance in China. The government regularly takes drastic measures to block VPNs, which can cause some servers to disconnect unexpectedly. However, reputable providers regularly update their systems and add new servers, allowing users to quickly regain a stable connection.
6.4 Why is VPN often slow in China?
Speeds when using a VPN in China can be affected by bandwidth limits and network censorship. However, high-quality VPNs are optimized to minimize lag. For smoother connections, users should prioritize servers in countries close to China, such as Japan, Hong Kong, or Singapore.
Note: VPN connection speed in China depends on the user's location and the selected server location.
Hopefully the above information has helped you better understand the Free China VPN service and how to choose the right software for your needs. If you have any questions or need further support, do not hesitate to contact Hidemium for quick and accurate advice.
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