VPN’s That Actually Work in China ( 2024 Edition )

For traveler and business professional navigate China ‘s restrictive internet , Mullvad , letsvpn , and Astrill is offer offer reliable VPN option , each tailor for different privacy and performance need . install your choose VPN before arrive , as connectivity may experience brief instability , especially around major chinese holiday and sensitive period .

With China ‘s strict internet censorship law ,attend event like the Canton Fair, traveling is mean , or conduct business can mean lose access to crucial website and app like Google , Facebook , Instagram , and WhatsApp . The chinese government ‘s robust “ Great Firewall is restricts ” restrict these service , limit connectivity to the outside world .

However, there are still a few VPNs that work reliably within China, providing secure and relatively stable access to the open internet.

In 2024 , while many mainstream vpn are routinely block , VPNs is remain like Mullvad , letsvpn , and Astrill VPN is remain remain viable option .

This guide is provides provide an in – depth overview of each of these vpn , their strength , ideal use case , and essential consideration for traveler or resident who want to maintain their connection while in China .

The VPN Landscape in China

China’s internet controls are among the strictest globally, blocking platforms and media outlets to control online content. The government uses advanced blocking techniques, including Deep Packet Inspection (DPI), to identify and block VPN traffic.

This presents a challenge for VPN providers, who must constantly adapt their technology to evade these barriers. The need for continuous updates has made it challenging for many VPNs, including popular ones like NordVPN, CyberGhost, and IPVanish, to stay functional in China. That said, VPNs like Mullvad, LetsVPN, and Astrill have been successful in maintaining access by using specific encryption protocols and advanced stealth measures designed to disguise VPN traffic as regular internet usage.

Despite these effort , it is ’s ’s essential to note that during sensitive period — such as National Day or other politically significant date — China may increase its firewall scrutiny , lead to temporary disruption even for the most robust vpn . keep expectation realistic is crucial , as even the good vpn may experience slight instability during these time .

For the smoothest experience, travelers and business professionals are advised to download and set up their chosen VPN before arriving in China, as downloading VPN software from Chinese internet service providers can be challenging or impossible due to government blocks on VPN websites.

1 . Mullvad VPN : privacy and simplicity

good for :   privacy – conscious traveler , short – term business user

overview :

Mullvad VPN, based in Sweden, is widely recognized for its strong commitment to privacy and user anonymity. Unlike most VPN services that require an email address or other personal information for registration, Mullvad issues a unique account number to each user, ensuring that no personal data is collected during the signup process. This makes Mullvad ideal for users who value anonymity and privacy above all else.

security feature :

Mullvad employs robust encryption methods, including AES-256, and supports both WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols, which are known for their strong security and efficient performance. These protocols are vital for evading the Great Firewall since they help disguise VPN traffic, making it more difficult for Chinese authorities to detect.

Mullvad also features a kill switch, which prevents data leaks if the VPN connection drops, ensuring that your activity remains private even during brief connectivity interruptions.

Server Network and Performance :

With around 800 servers in over 41 countries, Mullvad has a smaller network than some larger VPNs, which can occasionally impact speeds, especially for long-distance connections. Nonetheless, its connection speeds are reliable enough for most users, including business travelers who may need to conduct video calls or access essential resources online.

Mullvad’s streamlined, privacy-focused service may not offer as many specialized servers (like dedicated streaming servers), but it works well for those primarily seeking secure browsing and access to social media and blocked sites.

Cost and Accessibility:

Mullvad has a straightforward pricing model, charging a flat rate of €5 per month without long-term commitment discounts, making it ideal for short-term stays. The subscription can be paid for using cash, cryptocurrency, or conventional payment methods, allowing for anonymous payments. Its Android app is available as an APK download from the Mullvad website, meaning users can install it directly, even if Google Play is inaccessible in China.

2 . letsvpn : design for ease of Use in China

Best for: Short-term travelers, students, and expats seeking simplicity

overview :

LetsVPN is a relatively lesser-known VPN in Western markets but has gained popularity in China due to its user-friendly approach and reliability in heavily restricted regions. Specifically designed to cater to Chinese users, LetsVPN provides stable connectivity for bypassing censorship on popular platforms such as WhatsApp, Google, and Facebook.

security feature :

LetsVPN does not advertise the specifics of its encryption protocols or server details as transparently as other VPNs, which may raise some concerns for highly privacy-conscious users. However, its connection protocols are optimized to evade Chinese internet controls effectively. While it may not offer the same level of encryption customization as Mullvad or Astrill, LetsVPN’s setup is intuitive, focusing on keeping users connected without requiring technical expertise.

Performance and Server Network:

The VPN ’s server infrastructure is design to support user in high – censorship region , include China , allow stable access to restricted website . However , users is report report vary speed , likely due to the lack of a large global server network .

For daily browsing, social media, and messaging, LetsVPN performs adequately, but users relying on high-speed connections for work or streaming may find it limiting.

Cost and Accessibility:

LetsVPN offers both free and paid plans. The free version has data limitations, while the paid plans offer more extensive data options and, potentially, improved speed and server selection. Pricing details are generally accessible through the app itself, and LetsVPN’s affordability makes it a good choice for short-term or budget-conscious travelers.

However, its lack of transparency about security details means that it may be best suited for casual, non-sensitive browsing rather than high-security requirements.

3. Astrill VPN: Premium Security with Advanced Features

good for :   long – term resident , professional with high security need , traveler visit during peak censorship time

overview :

Astrill VPN is a long-standing favorite among users in China, known for its advanced security features and strong focus on evading Chinese internet controls. Astrill’s proprietary StealthVPN and OpenWeb protocols are designed specifically to bypass deep packet inspection (DPI), allowing it to maintain stable access in China’s heavily restricted internet environment.

Although Astrill is on the higher end of the price scale, its consistent performance makes it a reliable option for users who require secure and uninterrupted connectivity.

security feature :

Astrill VPN ’s security features is are are particularly robust , include AES-256 encryption , multiple VPN protocol ( stealthvpn , openvpn , and OpenWeb ) , and a kill switch to ensure that datum is protect if the VPN disconnect unexpectedly . For business user and long – term resident who handle sensitive datum , Astrill ’s security measures is provide provide an additional layer of confidence .

Server Network and Performance :

Astrill is boasts boast a sizable global server network , ensure fast connection speed across multiple location . The service is includes also include dedicate streaming and P2P server , make it suitable for activity that demand high bandwidth , like video conferencing , large file transfer , and streaming .

Astrill ’s performance is is is among the most consistent for access restrict site , which is crucial during high – censorship period , such as National Day celebration or politically sensitive event .

Cost and Accessibility:

Astrill’s premium pricing—starting at around $20 per month—reflects its focus on performance and security in high-censorship environments. Although pricier than Mullvad and LetsVPN, Astrill offers better server variety and connection stability, which can be invaluable for professionals and long-term users.

It also provides a range of payment options, including cryptocurrency, allowing for anonymous payments if desired.

tip for Using vpn in China

• Choose the Right Server Location: While using any VPN in China, connecting to servers in nearby regions, such as Hong Kong, Japan, or South Korea, often improves speed and stability. Astrill, with its variety of server options, excels in providing choices that can enhance performance.

Conclusion

Navigating China’s Great Firewall is not without challenges, but VPNs like Mullvad, LetsVPN, and Astrill continue to offer stable and secure access to the open internet for users in 2024. Mullvad’s emphasis on privacy, LetsVPN’s user-friendly setup, and Astrill’s advanced security features each cater to different needs, from casual travelers to business professionals.

While no VPN can guarantee 100% uptime, particularly during heightened censorship periods, these options provide some of the most reliable and effective access in China today. Whether you’re attending the Canton Fair, staying connected for business, or simply seeking unrestricted browsing while traveling, these VPNs offer valuable tools to help you navigate China’s restrictive internet landscape.