Best VPN for Mac in 2025: Expert Reviews and Recommendations
If you’ve been in search of the best VPN for Mac, you’ve landed on the right page. Today, we’ll cover several of the market’s top providers, each rated for privacy, speed, ease of use, and of course, seamless integration into the slick MacOS.
Staying safe on the internet is getting harder every day. Even Mac users are vulnerable to hotel Wi-Fi hacking risks and ISPs eager to collect and sell private information. Staying anonymous and keeping your data secure is much easier with a virtual private network. Besides keeping users safe, VPNs also provide access to streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer.
These trusted VPNs have high-security apps optimized for Mac OS:
- NordVPN – Best Mac VPN – The NordVPN Mac app gives you full access to this provider’s wealth of cybersecurity settings. Powerful encryption, easy user interface, stable performance.
- Surfshark – Lightweight app with heavyweight privacy provisions. Unlimited simultaneous connections and bandwidth.
- ExpressVPN – One-click interface, easy server switching, reliable unblocking.
- IPVanish – More old-school in visual design, but trusted by thousands across the globe.
- StrongVPN – A reliable VPN with good encryption and no logging.
- PIA – An inexpensive VPN for any device, with a global network of servers
- Proton VPN – Totally free forever with zero logs and zero ads.
While most good VPN services offer Mac software, not all apps are equal. We combed through the top providers around to find the best VPNs for Mac OS you can download.
What are the best VPNs for MacOS?
Ready to protect your data? The crowded VPN market overwhelms buyers and creates analysis paralysis. To skip the hassle, start with our expert picks for the best VPNs for Mac.
1. Best Overall: NordVPN
NordVPN has an amazing reputation among VPN users. The company has been in operation since 2012 and employs mathematicians and technologists whose goal is to keep the Internet as free as possible without sacrificing speed or ease of use. The company even offers Bitcoin payments for an extra layer of anonymity.
NordVPN puts security first by using double data encryption along with a strict zero-logging policy. The team operates over 5,500 servers in 60 different countries, as well, which gives users plenty of options for bypassing censorship and geo-blocked content. NordVPN will successfully unblock Netflix, Hulu and BBC iPlayer along with a huge range of other content. There are no bandwidth limitations or traffic throttling, both P2P and torrents are welcome, and there’s a convenient kill switch that terminates any unencrypted leaks if your connection drops unexpectedly.
Ease of use is another priority for the NordVPN team, and the Mac software shows it with a fast installation and intuitive design. Both basic and advanced features are easy to find and customize to your liking. You can download NordVPN directly from its website or the Mac App Store.
Read our full NordVPN review.
- Highly affordable plans
- 5,400+ servers globally
- Tor over VPN, double VPN
- Based in Panama
- Great customer service via chat.
- They can take 30 days to process refunds.
2. Best for Unlimited Devices: Surfshark
Surfshark was seemingly built with Apple’s ecosystem in mind. Their Mac OS app is extremely minimalist in its visual design, but never abstract. A single window clearly presents everything you need. Even the advanced settings are easy to access, and never need the “digging in” so many other VPNs seem to require.
Don’t mistake Surfshark for a lightweight, though. It packs 256-AES-GCM encryption, OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec, and WireGuard tunneling protocols, obfuscation, anti-malware/tracking/pop-ups, and even NoBorder anti-censorship functionality into every server connection. That’s right—every server works out of the box, just like a Mac app should.
And if you’re also on iOS, rejoice as the user experience is much the same. What’s more, Surfshark never limits your simultaneous connections, so you can protect your whole family’s devices with one subscription. Surfshark keeps no identifiable logs, letting you browse on your Mac with complete anonymity.
- Unblock VoIP in oppressive regimes like WhatsApp, Skype, Discord, and more
- Server selection is dead simple and quick
- Accepts all major credit cards, Apple, Google, and Amazon Pay, PayPal, and even Bitcoin
- Favorable BVI jurisdiction guarantees no logs kept
- Refund requests are simple and fast–no waiting or hassle.
- Connection speeds won't impress users of other high-end VPNs
- New-kid-on-the-block status may not instill same trust as larger providers.
Read our full Surfshark review.
3. Best for Speedy Downloads: ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN‘s reputation is one of top download speeds and reliable privacy policies. The service’s main features include unlimited bandwidth, no data caps, no file type restrictions, and 3,000+ VPN server locations in 94 countries to make finding a fast, content-friendly connection a breeze. This also allows ExpressVPN to easily bypass most georestrictions, even from major streaming services like Netflix. There’s also a guaranteed zero-logging policy in place for the privacy minded.
One of ExpressVPN’s most unique features is its built-in speed test for Windows, Mac, and Android versions of the network’s software. Different servers will offer different download speeds depending on your location, so finding one that offers the right balance of bandwidth and regional benefits can be a trial and error process. With ExpressVPN’s speed test, you can quickly evaluate which server will give you the best connection.
The ExpressVPN Mac client shares a lot of layout and design features of its iOS counterpart. This can make it feel a bit cramped at times, but never overwhelmingly so. All features are available from within the software’s menus, including the exclusive server speed test option. Download the ExpressVPN app from the official website to get the most up-to-date release.
Read our full ExpressVPN review.
- Unblocks American Netflix, iPlayer, Hulu
- Super fast, reliable connection
- OpenVPN, IPSec & IKEv2 Encryption
- No personal information logs kept
- 24/7 Customer Service.
- Month-to-month plan has high cost.
4. Best for Anonymity: IPVanish
Known as one of the fastest VPN providers around, IPVanish delivers consistent speed alongside great privacy and security options for a number of platforms, including Mac. The VPN operates over 1,300 servers in 60 different countries to help maximize your location-based speed scores and geo-location circumvention. You’ll also find handy features like a dropped connection kill switch, automatic IP switching, and the ever-important zero-logging policy.
Most VPN providers include anonymity and content access, but IPVanish highlights these as its strongest features. With a VPN, you can switch locations instantly and bypass censorship when content is blocked in your country. IPVanish offers servers in dozens of countries, letting you reach the information you need without exposing your identity or personal details.
IPVanish has a custom built Mac app available to download from its website. There’s an easy to use visual set-up guide to help with installation, along with detailed tutorials for manual installation.
Read our full IPVanish review.
5. Best Security Protocols: StrongVPN
StrongVPN focuses on speed and uncompromised privacy. Few VPNs match its fast connection speeds. Its strict no-logs policy and strong security protocols keep your information safe at all times.
The provider has north of 650 servers in 20+ countries, the shortest list of the VPNs featured above but a respectable enough selection to give you options when you need to circumvent geo-restricted content.
StrongVPN’s Mac software is compatible with Yosemite, El Capitan, and Sierra with a legacy client for older builds like Snow Leopard and Lion. Several quick start tutorials guide you through the set-up process so you’re up and running as quickly as possible.
6. Best Budget VPN: PIA
Private Internet Access (PIA) offers a vast network of servers worldwide, prioritizing privacy with a strict no-logs policy. Known for its user-friendly interface and competitive pricing, PIA provides features like split tunneling and kill switch to enhance security. You’ll get unlimited simultaneous connections on all your devices. Apps are available for every device imaginable, and servers are spread out over a whopping 91 countries.
With zero discounts, this VPN service is only $2.03/mo, much more affordable than most other providers.
7. Best Free VPN for Mac: Proton VPN
We don’t typically recommend free VPNs, but Proton VPN is a bit different than most providers. There is a paid version used by millions of people, so there’s less of a concern that the free edition will sell your data (i.e., they’re still making money from other users). The free edition is more restricted than the paid version, so it works on only one device with reduced speeds from a limited set of servers. However, there are no ads, your data still isn’t logged, and it’s free forever. It’s actually a really great deal if you’re new to VPNs or if you don’t have many requirements.
The company is based in Switzerland and explains their no-log policy in detail.
Apple’s Built-in VPN Options: Private Relay & TLS
Before installing a third-party app, it’s worth exploring Apple’s native privacy tools, which are already integrated into macOS. These built-in features act as lightweight VPN alternatives, offering enhanced privacy without additional software.
iCloud Private Relay
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Available with iCloud+, Private Relay routes your Safari traffic through two separate internet relays, effectively hiding your IP address and preventing tracking.
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Unlike a full VPN, it doesn’t let you choose server locations, but it’s excellent for anonymizing browsing and blocking trackers.
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It integrates seamlessly with macOS, requiring zero technical setup.
TLS (Transport Layer Security)
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Apple enforces TLS across apps and Safari to encrypt data in transit.
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This ensures that sensitive information, like passwords and payment details, remains secure from interception.
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While TLS isn’t a VPN itself, it acts as a built-in encryption safeguard, protecting most traffic at the system level.
How They Compare to Third-Party VPNs
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Integration: Apple’s tools are deeply integrated into macOS, meaning they work smoothly without extra apps.
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Ease of Use: No manual setup required — just enable Private Relay via iCloud settings.
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Limitations: Unlike third-party VPNs, Apple’s options don’t let you bypass geo-blocks, access foreign streaming libraries, or choose specific server locations.
Verdict: Apple’s built-in options are great for everyday privacy and security, but if you want full VPN functionality (like streaming Netflix abroad or torrenting safely), a third-party service like NordVPN or ExpressVPN is still essential.
How to Choose a Great Mac VPN
The top criteria for finding and featuring quality VPN providers for Mac includes native support for the operating system right out of the box. No converted software, no browser extensions, no complex configuring just to get things going, only simple, download and run VPN software.
Outside of strong Mac support, it’s also important that a VPN provider meets the standards for speed, accessibility, privacy, and security. There’s no point in getting a VPN if it doesn’t protect your identity and stop ISPs from tracking your every move.
- Mac software support – Most quality VPN providers support dozens of modern platforms, including desktop computers, tablets, Mac OS, and mobile devices such as iOS and Android. Some VPNs only support Mac as an afterthought, however, which automatically excluded them from this list. The Mac VPN programs can be downloaded from the provider’s website and in some cases through the Mac App Store.
- Logging policy – The first thing you should check before using a VPN is the service provider’s logging policy. Keeping data on their servers, even if it’s encrypted, can put your privacy at risk. The best VPNs have a strict zero-logging policy that ensures data doesn’t stick around.
- Speed – VPNs have a reputation for being a little on the sluggish side. This can be due to a number of factors, including server location, encryption overhead, and raw hardware power. We weighed speed reports with each VPN’s overall quality to make sure they deliver enough bandwidth to keep you in business.
- Traffic and bandwidth limitations – A hidden danger of some VPNs is blocked file types and bandwidth limitations. There’s nothing more frustrating than signing up for a new service only to find out you can’t use P2P sharing or torrent files. All of the VPN providers below deliver unlimited bandwidth with no speed caps and allow all traffic types without restriction.
- Company location – Jurisdiction is extremely important for a VPN provider, especially if privacy is your number one concern. If a country has strict data retention policies, VPN service providers must adhere to those laws. Most good VPNs refuse to operate in areas that can force them to hand over user data.
How We Test VPNs for Mac
Testing VPNs for Mac involves several important steps. With these ideas in mind, we ensure that the VPNs we recommend for Mac users are reliable, secure, and easy to use:
- First, we download and install the VPN software on a Mac computer. We check how easy it is to install and set up, making sure that even beginners can follow the instructions without any trouble.
- Once the VPN is running, we look at the features it offers. This includes checking if it has a good number of servers in different countries, which is crucial since that’s how you’re able to access content from around the world. We also check for features like a kill switch, which ensures the data remains secure automatically by disconnecting from the internet if the VPN connection drops.
- Next, we test how fast the VPN connection is by visiting websites, streaming videos, and downloading files. A good VPN should not slow down your internet speed too much.
- Security is another key factor. We test the VPN to see if it effectively hides our IP address and encrypts our internet traffic, which are the two main reasons people use VPNs, to protect their data from hackers and prying eyes.
- VPNs are advertised as services that keep your data private, so we review the VPN’s privacy policy to ensure they do not log or store browsing activities. We may also run tests to see if there are any leaks of our personal information, like IP or DNS leaks.
- Finally, we evaluate the overall user experience by navigating the VPN’s interface. It should be user-friendly, with clear options and easy-to-understand settings. Customer support is another consideration, but it’s not as important as these other factors.
What are the Benefits of Using a VPN with a Mac?
The majority of VPN customers use their service as a way to protect their privacy. With a VPN in place, data transferred across the internet is encrypted and routed through servers around the world, making it difficult to locate, collect, or even sell personal details.
- ISPs can’t track or sell your information – VPNs encrypt data before it leaves your computer or mobile device. Instead of sending raw IP addresses and personal details through a local provider’s servers, a VPN makes it so that only encrypted, scrambled information is sent. This prevents ISPs from gathering and selling personal information without your permission.
- Public Wi-Fi is safer with a VPN – VPNs are even more useful when you’re away from home. Instead of sending unencrypted data across public networks, using your VPN software on a laptop or mobile device ensures everything stays encrypted and secure.
- Access geo-restricted content – A powerful feature of a VPN is the ability to change your virtual location at the touch of a button. This makes it easy to get around region blocked content or censored websites.
- Torrenting – If you don’t want the authorities to see what you’re torrenting, a VPN can be a great way to ensure peace of mind. This is particularly true when accessing content in a legal grey area.
What Devices Do VPNs Protect?
A VPN can only offer protection if you run that software on the device you’re currently using. Installing a VPN on your Mac won’t protect your iPad, you’ll need to use a separate app for that. For true privacy, every device you use to connect to the internet should have VPN software installed and active, without exception.
There are some technical solutions that bypass this slight limitation. Many VPN providers offer software or configuration tutorials that let you secure your connection from the router, providing blanket coverage to every device that connects to your home internet. If you’re feeling adventurous and don’t mind messing with router configurations, this is a great way to ensure everything stays safe.
Limitations of a VPN with Mac
As useful as VPNs are for keeping your data safe and bypassing geo-blocked content, they aren’t a magic bullet. Keep these limitations in mind when using a VPN on your Mac.
VPNs Don’t Protect Against Viruses or Malware
A VPN encrypts and reroutes your data, but it can’t stop viruses or malware from infecting your Mac. Exploits can still cause problems, so don’t assume you’re invincible.
Not All Devices Are Automatically Protected
When you install a VPN on your Mac, only that device is secured. Other devices on your network remain unprotected unless you also install VPN software on them. For whole-home protection, you’ll need to set up the VPN on your router.
Device Connection Limits
Most VPN providers limit how many devices you can connect at once—usually between three and six. This includes laptops, phones, tablets, and even e-readers. Some providers offer upgrades or allow router-based installs to extend coverage.
VPNs Won’t Boost Your Internet Speed
If your ISP is slow, a VPN won’t fix that. In fact, encryption and rerouting may slightly reduce your speeds. While VPNs can stop throttling in some cases, they generally won’t make your internet faster.
Aren’t Macs Safe without a VPN?
Macs may resist viruses and malware better than other systems, but that protection doesn’t extend to your network traffic. A VPN encrypts and reroutes your traffic before it leaves your computer, keeping data safe while it travels through your internet provider’s hardware. While your Mac shields you from local threats, you face the same risks as everyone else when it comes to online privacy.
How to Use a VPN on a Mac
The process of setting up and using a VPN on a Mac is the same as Windows and mobile devices, maybe even easier in some regards. The method will vary slightly with each VPN service provider, so if there’s any doubt simply check their help and support section for a detailed guide.
- Download the VPN application from your provider’s website
- Open the .dmg file
- Drag the app’s icon to your Applications folder
- Open the VPN. If a security message pops up, click “Open”
- Use your VPN login credentials to sign in
- Choose a VPN server and connect
- Use your internet connection as normal.
Free VPNs From the Mac App Store
It’s both convenient and tempting to just head over to the Mac App Store and download the first VPN that shows up. After all, apps on the store are trustworthy and safe to use, right? In the case of VPNs, this isn’t necessarily true. Grabbing a random free VPN can harm your privacy more than it protects it, especially if the service claims to offer a VPN at no cost.
There’s a rule of thumb in the VPN world that’s worth paying attention to: free is rarely a good idea. If you aren’t paying for your virtual private network, the company that’s giving it to you has no incentive to keep your data safe. In fact, many of them sell collected information to turn a profit. Even if it’s on the Mac App Store, a free VPN isn’t a good idea. A recent CSIRO study found that as many as 38% of VPNs contained malware or malicious advertisements! Only trust your data with a company that has an impeccable reputation.
Not every VPN on the Mac App Store is shady. Still, it’s best to sign up on the provider’s official website and download the software there. If they link to the Mac App Store and are listed as the app’s publisher there, download away.
How to Use a VPN that Doesn’t Have Mac Software
If your VPN provider doesn’t offer a Mac app, you still have options. The simplest method is to run VPN software directly on your device. You can also set up your router to protect the whole network. Be ready for some hands-on configuration, and check your VPN’s support guides for step-by-step instructions.
Conclusion
This guide has covered the essentials. You now know what makes a great VPN for Mac. You also know why you need one and how to install the right provider.
Still using El Capitan or High Sierra? Check out our detailed review of the best VPNs for those versions. Running into blocked websites on your Mac? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.
Check out our guide on how to access blocked websites on Mac for a seamless browsing experience.
Got any Mac or VPN tips for us? Share them in the comments below.
FAQ
What is the best free VPN for Mac computers?
Proton VPN’s free plan ranks among the best. You can also try Windscribe, TunnelBear, or Hotspot Shield as free Mac VPN alternatives.
Do Mac computers have built-in VPNs?
No, macOS does not include VPN access by default. You can, however, connect to a VPN from a Mac computer much like you can on other operating systems.
Do I need a VPN for Mac?
Few people need a VPN. Want to unblock streaming libraries or access content outside your region? A VPN makes that possible. It’s one of the best tools for online freedom.
If you need a VPN for a short while when traveling for example, you can get our top ranked VPN free of charge. NordVPN includes a 30-day money-back guarantee. You will need to pay for the subscription, that’s a fact, but it allows full access for 30 days and then you cancel for a full refund. Their no-questions-asked cancellation policy lives up to its name.
ExpressVPN’s kill switch feature made it an easy choice for me. Best service I’ve used so far.