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We reviewed 16 companies using a weighted methodology to help you find the seven best VPNs for Chrome. Our ratings consider factors, such as whether it has a free trial, its lowest price, highest price, its features and speeds. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
The Best VPN Chrome Extensions Of 2025
Forbes Advisor Ratings
What Is a VPN Chrome Extension?
A VPN Chrome extension is a type of VPN that runs in your web browser. It’s a convenient and easy way to get the benefits of a VPN without having to install a separate app.
How To Choose the Best VPN for Chrome
When considering which VPN to choose for your Chrome browser, there are several factors to keep in mind. Some VPNs work best via an app downloaded to your computer or device versus a browser extension. In general, you’ll want to make sure the VPN you choose offers military-grade encryption, a large number of servers in various locations, fast speeds and 24/7 customer support.
Essential VPN Features
When choosing a VPN for Chrome, there are certain features that you should always look for. These include features, such as military-grade encryption, fast speeds, lots of servers, split tunneling and a no-logs policy. Most of the higher-end VPNs will have many, if not all, of the features listed below. You will want to weigh the advantages of each provider carefully to ensure you get the best possible protection for the purposes you require:
- Military-grade encryption: To ensure your data is secure and private, make sure the VPN you choose has military-grade encryption. This includes AES-256 encryption and other protocols, such as OpenVPN.
- A large number of servers: Having a wide selection of servers is important for finding fast connection speeds and accessing georestricted content. This is why you’ll want to look for a VPN with servers in multiple countries and locations.
- Fast speeds: Look for a VPN that offers high download and upload speeds to ensure a smooth browsing and streaming experience. A slow VPN can cause buffering and lags.
- 24/7 customer support: In case you have any issues with your VPN, you should be able to get help from the provider’s customer service team.
- Split tunneling: Split tunneling allows you to route some of your traffic through the VPN and some directly to the internet. This is helpful for accessing sites that require a local IP address.
- No-logs policy: A no-logs policy means that the VPN provider doesn’t keep any records of your activity. This is important for protecting your privacy and security.
- 30-day money-back guarantee: Look for a VPN that offers a 30-day money-back guarantee so that you can try out the service risk-free.
- Ad and tracker blocker: An ad and tracker blocker will help protect your privacy and block malicious websites.
- Firewall protection: A firewall can provide extra security by preventing unauthorized connections to your computer.
- Multidevice support: Make sure the VPN you choose supports multiple devices so that you can use it on all your devices.
- Kill switch: A kill switch ensures that your data is never exposed if the connection drops. It cuts off internet access automatically in case of an unexpected disconnection.
- Not headquartered in a Five Eyes country: To further protect your data, make sure the VPN you choose is not located in a country that participates in the Five Eyes surveillance agreement.
Device Compatibility
Your VPN should be compatible with your device as well as your operating system. A VPN that supports multiple operating systems and devices is ideal. This way you can use it on your desktop, laptop, mobile device and even smart TV. Additionally, how many devices can your VPN subscription support? If you plan to use it on multiple devices, make sure the VPN you choose allows for simultaneous connections.
Pricing and Plans
You’ll need to consider pricing and plans. Most VPNs offer multiple plans with various features so you can choose the one that best fits your needs and budget. Some providers even offer free plans with limited features, but keep in mind that these will not offer the same level of security as a paid plan.
Server Number and Location
When selecting a VPN, check to see how many servers it has and where they are located. Having access to a large number of servers in various locations will give you more options for finding faster speeds and accessing georestricted content. Additionally, make sure the VPN has servers in any countries where you plan to travel so that you can access the internet securely while abroad.
Featured Partners
1
NordVPN
72% off, starting at $3.39 for 24 months
6
Yes (add-on)
2
Surfshark
$2.19 / month
Unlimited
Yes
3
Norton
Starting at $49.99 / month
1-10
Yes
4
Private Internet Access
Starting at $11.95 / month
Unlimited
Yes
Methodology
To determine the Best VPNs for Chrome, we developed a meticulous methodology that allowed us to evaluate a total of 16 Chrome VPNs across a variety of crucial categories. Each VPN received a score in each category, and these scores were used to calculate a product’s total score, with a maximum possible score of five stars. This methodology enabled us to rank the Best Chrome VPNs objectively based on their performance across these significant categories:
- Pricing (15%): The pricing structure of each VPN was taken into account, including the display of prices, the presence of a free trial or free version and the cost of the lowest and highest subscription plans. This evaluation helped us assess the overall affordability and value of each VPN, and this category accounted for 15% of a product’s total score.
- Mobile app (10%): We considered the ratings of each VPN’s app on the App Store and Play Store to assess the user experience and performance on mobile devices. This category represented 10% of a product’s total score.
- Customer reviews (10%): We analyzed customer reviews from trusted platforms such as Trustpilot, G2 and Capterra to gauge overall user satisfaction. VPN providers with higher ratings and positive feedback concerning reliability, effectiveness and user-friendliness received higher scores. This category made up 10% of a product’s total score.
- Service and support (7%): We evaluated the quality and availability of service and support options, including live chat, a knowledge base or help center, phone support and 24/7 customer support. This category accounted for 7% of a product’s total score.
- General features (22%): Several key features, such as anonymous browsing, DNS protection measures, dedicated IP options, kill switch functionality, split tunneling capabilities and support for multifactor authentication, were evaluated. Each feature was scored based on its implementation, reliability and user-friendliness, contributing 22% to a product’s total score.
- Additional features (8%): We also took into account additional features such as the number of countries with available servers, the strictness of a no-logs policy, browser extensions and the number of simultaneous connections allowed. This category contributed 8% to a product’s total score.
- Speeds (18%): We assessed the average download and upload speeds of each VPN to gauge its performance and its impact on browsing, streaming and downloading activities. This category accounted for 18% of a product’s total score.
- Expert score (10%): Finally, our expert evaluation took into account distinctive features, overall value for money, popularity among users and ease of use. This category aimed to identify VPN providers that offered unique features, exceptional value and a superior user experience. It contributed 10% to a product’s total score.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best VPN for Chrome?
NordVPN is an excellent choice for users seeking advanced security features, offering military-grade encryption, a no-logs policy and obfuscated servers. However, its relatively high renewal cost could deter some, but the superior security features may justify the investment.
TunnelBear is an ideal choice for beginners thanks to its intuitive interface, strong encryption and no-logs policy. Its free plan and a broad server network spanning 48 countries make it a highly accessible and flexible VPN option, but users should note it’s headquartered in Canada, a member of the Five Eyes alliance.
Proton VPN stands out with its no-logs policy, Swiss data protection laws and the use of open-source technology. While its free version only provides access to three countries and its advanced features are exclusive to premium plans, the VPN Accelerator technology and multi-platform support make it an excellent option for privacy-minded users and larger households.
Does Chrome have a built-in VPN?
There’s no built-in Chrome VPN. However, there are many Chrome extensions that allow you to get the benefits of a VPN without having to install a separate app.
Is there a free Chrome VPN extension?
There are a number of free Chrome VPN extensions available, such as Hotspot Shield. However, these tend to have fewer features and slower speeds than paid options. Check out our list of the best cheap VPNs.
How do I set up a VPN on Chrome?
To set up a VPN on Chrome, you need to install a Chrome extension. Most providers will have step-by-step instructions for doing this on their website or you can find a VPN through the Chrome Web Store. Once you have the extension installed, log in and select a server. Then, your data will be protected.
Are Chrome VPN extensions safe to use?
Chrome VPN extensions can be safe to use. However, it’s important to do your research and make sure you’re selecting a reputable provider with a strong security protocol. Be sure to check for customer reviews and look for features, such as military-grade encryption, a no-logs policy, multiple protocols and a kill switch. By following these guidelines, you’ll be able to enjoy secure, private browsing on any device.
Can I use a VPN for Chrome on Android devices?
You can use a VPN for Chrome on Android devices. Most providers offer dedicated apps for Android so you can connect to their network and keep your data safe. However, if you’re using an Android device that doesn’t support VPN apps, you can always use a Chrome extension instead. However, make sure it’s compatible with your device.
Do I need an account to use a VPN Chrome extension?
For most VPN Chrome extensions, you’ll need to create an account with the VPN service to use the extension. However, some require no account, such as free VPN for Chrome.
Can I unblock websites on Chrome without a VPN?
If you don’t have a VPN or can’t download one because you’re using a public computer, you can use a public web proxy. These services allow you to access blocked websites by acting as an intermediary between your computer and the website in question. However, bear in mind that free public web proxies are not as secure as VPNs and may have limited functionality. It’s also worth noting that some websites can detect and block web proxies, so using them to access restricted content may not always be successful.
What can I access with a VPN?
A VPN can help you access websites and services that are blocked in your country. It also provides a secure connection to the internet, meaning no one can see what you’re doing or intercept your data. You can also use a VPN to bypass georestricted content, including streaming services, such as Netflix and Hulu. Additionally, a VPN can allow you to access public Wi-Fi networks safely and securely.
