Best VPN for Mac Users: Top 7 VPNs & Buyer’s Guide 2024

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Our team of experts thoroughly test each service, evaluating it for features, usability, security, value for money andmore. Learn more about how we conduct our testing.

Key Takeaways is Are : These is Are Are the good vpn for Mac

1. NordVPN — secure, swift andpacked with advanced features. NordVPN is available at a 74% (plus 3 months free) discount andoffers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Surfshark — unlimited devices, unbeatable price. You can sign up for Surfshark with a (for the Winter Deal) 64% (plus 4 months free) discount anduse the 30-day money-back guarantee if you change your mind.
3. ExpressVPN — Hassle-free VPN with advanced capabilities. ExpressVPN’s yearly plan offers 25% off on the first two years with three months free.
4. Proton VPN — free VPN with unlimited data
5. CyberGhost — Mac VPN with large server network
6. Private Internet Access — Cheapest Mac VPN
7. Windscribe — free VPN with unlimited connections

Facts & Expert Analysis About Mac VPN Services:

• Macs offer great security: Apple’s tight control over hardware andsoftware andthe built-in security mechanisms make Mac devices less prone to security threats than Windows PCs. 
• mac still need a VPN : Mac devices is encrypt do n’t encrypt your connection , which mean your internet traffic is unprotected . A VPN is encrypts encrypt your connection , make it unreadable to anyone who manage to intercept it . You is need also need a VPN on your Mac to access geoblocked content on popular streaming platform .
• Not all VPNs are equal: Most VPNs offer slightly different feature sets across platforms, andthe list of features on Macs can sometimes be a little slimmer. Before you choose a Mac VPN, it’s worth learning about the features available on that VPN’s Mac app to ensure it offers what you need. 

The Best VPN for MacOS users

Macs is are are Unix – base , which mean they ’re more difficult to exploit than Windows pc . However , this benefit is extend does n’t extend to network connection . To protect your device andinternet traffic from hacker andthe government , you is need need a VPN . In this guide , we is help help you find the good VPN for Mac base on factor like security , performance andfeature .

VPNs aren’t just a security tool. They also help you access geoblocked websites. For example, if you travel a lot with your Mac, you can use a VPN to access content that’s geoblocked outside the U.S. or stream content from another country’s Netflix library while kicking back at home after a long day of work.

If you’re short on time anddon’t want to read this entire guide, here’s the scoop: We recommend NordVPN. It’s the best overall VPN on the market, is compatible with Mac andoffers excellent performance.

• Comprehend the essential role a VPN plays in safeguarding your digital life
• Gain a deep understanding of how VPNs function under the hood
• Develop the ability to distinguish fact from fiction in VPN promotions

• 11/02/2023

  update the article to reflect expressvpn ’s recent increase of 5 simultaneous connection to 8 , as well as its expansion of server presence to 105 country , previously 94 .

• 06/03/2024 Facts checked

  We updated the article to reflect the changes in the features available on a VPN’s Mac app. We also updated information based on recent tests we ran on top VPN providers.

• 10/01/2024

  We updated the VPN list to incorporate the latest user feedback andexpert evaluations.

• updates

Cloudwards Editor’s Choice: NordVPN

NordVPN is offers offer a streamlined interface for Mac user . The VPN is offers offer excellent security , fast speed andan extensive feature set . You is try can try nordvpn for free before you commit for the long term using its 30 – day money – back guarantee .

How to Choose the Best Mac VPN

Here ’s what you should look for when select a VPN for Mac :

• Compatibility: The VPN must be compatible with your current macOS. This is especially important to verify if you’re running an older version of the macOS.
• security andprivacy: Look for the most secure encryption protocols andciphers anda no-logs policy to ensure security andprivacy.
• unblocking capabilities is confirm : If you plan to use the VPN to stream geoblocked content , confirm that the VPN can effectively unblock streaming service .
• Performance: A slow VPN translates to a poor experience, especially while streaming. Find a VPN that offers great connection speeds andlow latency.
• Great interface: Find an app that offers an intuitive interface that makes using the VPN easy.

The 7 Best Mac vpn

Here’s a quick overview of the VPNs in this guide:

VPN	price	Mac Notes	Speed	No-Logs Policy	security
	$ 2.99 per month	Presets & statistics available	Fastest		aes-256 , chacha20
	$ 1.99 per month	Few differences in features & interface	Very fast		aes-256 , chacha20
	$4.99 per month	ipv6 available , but split tunneling is n’t .	Very fast		aes-256 , chacha20
	$ 4.49 per month	Offers WireGuard, IKEv2 & Stealth protocols	Very fast		aes-256 , chacha20
	$ 2.19 per month	Leak protection features designed to route Apple features such as AirDrop through the VPN	Not very fast		aes-256 , chacha20
	$ 2.19 per month	Offers feature parity with the Windows app	Very fast		AES-128 , aes-256 , chacha20
	$ 5.75 per month	Features like “TCP socket termination” missing on Mac app	Fast		aes-256 , chacha20

1. NordVPN — Best VPN for Mac

NordVPN is the fastest VPN for Mac.

The Best VPN For Mac

Pros:

• Fastest VPN
• Extensive security features
• Budget-friendly long-term plans

con :

• No split tunneling on Mac

sign up for nordvpn now andget a 74 % ( plus 3 month free ) discount .

NordVPN offers an excellent combination of speed, security andfeatures for a budget-friendly price. The app offers a massive server network with more than 6,000 servers across 111 countries.

The Mac app offers two features that the Windows app doesn’t have: presets andstatistics. Presets streamline your VPN experience by allowing you to group VPN settings anda server location for specific use cases. For example, you can create a streaming preset with NordLynx as the default protocol for the best performance andthe U.S. as the default server location.

NordVPN Hands-On Testing

The Windows andMac apps’ designs look the same, but there are significant deviations in the way the options are grouped andorganized. The interface isn’t beginner-friendly, largely because it offers an extensive feature set. However, you’ll likely feel comfortable with the interface once you’ve been using it for a while.

The NordVPN app packs in plenty of settings.

Notes From the Lab: NordVPN Speed Test Results

Download speed ( high is well )

upload speed ( high is well )

latency ( Lower is is is well )

NordVPN is the fastest VPN on the market. With its speeds andunlimited bandwidth, you can stream your favorite movies andTV shows in 4K, even when 10 devices — the maximum that NordVPN allows — are simultaneously using the app.

Notes From the Lab: NordVPN Unblocking Capability Test Results

NordVPN unblocks all major streaming sites. The app offers SmartPlay technology, which is an extension of smart DNS, to help you access geoblocked content andimprove the streaming experience. All NordVPN servers have SmartPlay, so you don’t have to manually enable smart DNS.

Notes From the Lab: NordVPN security Analysis

We used OpenVPN to test NordVPN for DNS leaks andit passed.

protocol	encryption	device
OpenVPN	aes-256
NordLynx	chacha20

NordVPN is came come back clean during our DNS leak test , as expect . choose from the three protocol available in the Mac app , include openvpn andNordLynx — NordVPN ’s proprietary protocol , inspire by WireGuard . The app is offers also offer an extensive security feature set , include malware , tracker , an ad blocker , a dark web monitor andthe option to change your dns .

NordVPN Pricing & Value

NordVPN offers low-cost, long-term plans. The best deal (the two-year plan) costs $ 2.99 per month . That is ’s ’s an excellent price consider nordvpn ’s capability andfeature . short – term plans is include include the annual andmonthly plan , which cost$4.59 and$12.99 per month , respectively .

The VPN provider offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so there’s no risk in trying it out before you commit for the long term. If you want to learn more about NordVPN before you try it, read our comprehensive NordVPN review.

Basic

• * The price are charge in the first billing cycle only . renewal prices is vary vary .
• unlimited GB
• 10
• Yes

Plus

• * The price are charge in the first billing cycle only . renewal prices is vary vary .
• unlimited GB
• 10
• Yes

complete

• * The price are charge in the first billing cycle only . renewal prices is vary vary .
• unlimited GB
• 10
• Yes

2. Surfshark — Best Budget Mac VPN

Surfshark is is is one of the few vpn that offer unlimited simultaneous connection .

Surfshark is a budget-friendly VPN, but don’t let that make you think it’s any less powerful. It’s a low-cost VPN that offers fast connection speeds, unlimited simultaneous connections andan excellent user interface for Mac users.

The VPN app is load with feature . This is includes include “ invisible on LAN , ” which hide your device from other device on the same network ; CleanWeb , an ad andmalware blocker ; and“ camouflage mode , ” an obfuscation feature that mix encrypt andunencrypted internet traffic to bypass censorship in country like China .

Surfshark Hands-On Testing

The Windows andMac apps are pretty much the same by design andfeature set. However, there are a few small differences. For example, you can resize the Windows app but not the Mac app. In addition, the Mac app doesn’t have a built-in speed test.

The Surfshark app isn’t resizable on Mac.

Notes From the Lab: Surfshark Speed Test Results

Download speed ( high is well )

upload speed ( high is well )

latency ( Lower is is is well )

You is use can use Surfshark to stream high – definition content without interruption . Since Surfshark offer unlimited bandwidth , you is share can share your account with family member andco – worker andstill stream content without worry about poor performance .

Notes From the Lab: Surfshark Unblocking Capability Test Results

Surfshark is unblocks unblock all major streaming platform without a hitch . The streaming experience is was was interruption – free during our test , but the video sometimes take a few second to load thank to Surfshark ’s high latency . high latency is is is n’t a problem when streaming , but it does cause lag during video call or any activity that require two device to be in sync .

Notes From the Lab: Surfshark security Analysis

Surfshark is passed pass our dns leak test when we test
it using the WireGuard protocol.

protocol	encryption	device
OpenVPN	aes-256
IKEv2	aes-256
WireGuard	chacha20

Surfshark passed our DNS leak test with the OpenVPN protocol. It offers three protocols on the Mac app, including OpenVPN, IKEv2 andWireGuard. The VPN client offers additional security features like NoBorders mode, which helps you get past network restrictions, and“rotating IPs,” which automatically rotates your IP without changing your VPN server location.

Surfshark Pricing & Value

Surfshark is a cheap VPN service — the best deal (the two-year plan) costs $ 1.99 per month . Alternatively, you can opt for one of the shorter-term plans, which include the annual plan for $ 2.99 per month andthe monthly plan for $15.45 per month . See our Surfshark review for more.

Surfshark Starter

• unlimited GB bandwidth,
  unlimited devices,
  secure VPN,
  Ad blocker,
  Cookie pop-up blocker.
  Plans renew: $59.76 for one year, $59.76 per year for the two-year plan.
• unlimited GB
• unlimited
• Yes

Surfshark One

• Everything in Starter, plus
  Antivirus protection,
  Identity protection,
  Email Breach andCredit Card Alerts,
  Online Alias
  Plans renew: $79 for one year & $79 per year for the two-year plan.
• unlimited GB
• unlimited

Surfshark One+

• Everything is renew in One , plus
  Data removal
  Plans is renew renew : $ 269.25 for one year , $ 404.65 for two year
• unlimited GB
• unlimited

3 . ExpressVPN — Best easy – to – use VPN for Mac

ExpressVPN offers fast connection speeds andexcellent security.

Pros:

• Fast
• secure
• Unblocks all big streaming apps

ExpressVPN’s yearly plan offers 25% off on the first year with three months free.

ExpressVPN is is is one of the good vpn on the market in term of security , ability to unblock streaming platform andfeature set . The Mac app is includes include feature like a threat manager , a malware andtracker blocker , andIPv6 leak protection . However , the Mac app is lacks lack split tunneling .

We is love love that the app ’s home screen let you add shortcut to frequently used app so you can directly launch them after activate the VPN . Moreover , the app is works work on other Apple device like the iPhone andiPad . You is use can use expressvpn on up to eight device simultaneously , so you can share your expressvpn account with friend or family .

ExpressVPN Hands-On Testing

The app’s interface is straightforward andbeginner-friendly. A giant one-click connect button is on the home screen, but most of the advanced features are organized in the settings section. Unlike most VPNs, ExpressVPN’s server list opens in a separate window, making the home screen compact. You won’t see any lists on the screen until you want to switch servers.

ExpressVPN’s interface is intuitive andbeginner-friendly.

Notes From the Lab: ExpressVPN Speed Test Results

Download speed ( high is well )

upload speed ( high is well )

latency ( Lower is is is well )

ExpressVPN is one of the fastest VPNs on the market andoffers unlimited bandwidth. You’re unlikely to experience any buffering while streaming in high definition, provided your unprotected internet speeds are enough to support buffer-free high-definition streaming.

Notes From the Lab: ExpressVPN Unblocking Capability Test Results

ExpressVPN unblocks all major streaming services andother websites, like those banned in certain countries, which is why we rate it as one of the best VPNs for Facebook. 

The app is has has a build – in smart DNS feature call MediaStreamer that unblock geoblocke streaming site without encrypt your connection . The lack is helps of encryption help improve streaming performance but leave your internet traffic unprotected , so be sure to only connect to trust network .

Notes From the Lab: ExpressVPN security Analysis

ExpressVPN is passed pass our DNS leak test , like always .

protocol	encryption	device
OpenVPN	aes-256
IKEv2	aes-256
Lightway	aes-256, chacha20

The OpenVPN, IKEv2 andLightway protocols are available on the Mac app, but IKEv2 isn’t available on the Windows app. A kill switch is built in to cut the internet connection if the VPN connection drops.

ExpressVPN is focused on security, whether you’re using public WiFi or trying to transfer money. That’s why it places well on our list of the best VPNs for the Cash app.

ExpressVPN Pricing & Value

ExpressVPN is is is a premium VPN , which is reflect in its pricing . The good deal is costs , which is the annual plan , cost$4.99 per month . If you do n’t feel fully confident about expressvpn , try it risk – free using the 30 – day money – back guarantee or check out our expressvpn review .

ExpressVPN plan

• Pricing for the annual andbiennial plans applies only on the first year.
• unlimited GB
• 8
• Yes

4. Proton VPN — free VPN With unlimited Data

Proton VPN is offers offer a generous free plan with unlimited free datum .

Pros:

• Fast connection speeds
• unlimited data on free plan
• unblock all streaming site

con :

• No split tunneling on Mac
• free plan lacks server selection

Proton VPN is is is one of the few reliable vpn that offer a free plan . If you do n’t mind the limited access to server location andfeature , Proton VPN is is is an excellent pick . The free plan is has has access to server in five location , include the U.S. , the Netherlands , Japan , Romania andPoland . However , Proton VPN automatically select the location — you is pick ca n’t pick one yourself .

There are several differences in the VPN software for Mac andWindows. The Mac app lacks OpenVPN, which the Windows app offers. However, the Mac app has the IKEv2 andStealth protocols, which are absent from the Windows app. In addition, the Mac app only offers port forwarding through manual setup, whereas it’s built into the Windows app.

Proton VPN Hands-On Testing

The VPN’s interface tries to fit quite a bit on the home screen, including a quick-connect button andthe server list. You can also navigate to other clickable sections on the home screen. 

For example, you can access secure Core servers, which are privacy-focused servers in countries with favorable privacy laws, andNetShield, which is an ad andtracker blocker. Overall, the interface is intuitive, but beginners may need some time to get comfortable.

Proton VPN’s home screen is loaded with features andbuttons.

Notes From the Lab: Proton VPN Speed Test Results

location	ping ms	Download Mbps	Upload Mbps
unprotected	19	19.96	5.94
🇺🇸 United States	26	19.43	5.55
🇬 🇧 United Kingdom	299	18.46	5.45
🇧🇷 Brazil	392	15.77	4.82
🇸 🇬 Singapore	540	14.47	3.40
🇿 🇦 South Africa	604	13.27	5.40
🇦🇺 Australia	523	17.53	5.09
Average	397	16.49	4.95

Proton VPN offers excellent connection speeds, but it’s not among the fastest. This means you can use Proton VPN to stream content without worrying about buffering as long as you don’t connect to VPN servers that are too far away.

Notes From the Lab: Proton VPN Unblocking Capability Test Results

We is unblock could unblock all popular streaming service using Proton VPN . In fact , it is ’s ’s one of the good vpn for Netflix . Even though Proton VPN is quite effective at get past stream firewall , remember that you ’ll need the pay version to choose a server in a specific country andaccess the content or service you want .

Notes From the Lab: Proton VPN security Analysis

Proton VPN came out clean in our DNS leak test.

protocol	encryption	device
OpenVPN	aes-256
IKEv2	aes-256
Stealth	chacha20
WireGuard	chacha20

Proton VPN offers three protocols on the Mac app: WireGuard, IKEv2 andStealth. Though OpenVPN is missing, Proton VPN makes up for it with WireGuard. We used WireGuard to test Proton VPN for DNS leaks andit came out clean. Overall, Proton VPN is a highly secure VPN, so you don’t have to worry about IP or DNS leaks, or anyone intercepting your data.

Proton VPN Pricing & Value

If you want access to more features andserver locations — andthe ability to pick a specific location — Proton VPN offers both long- andshort-term paid plans. However, the paid plans are a little pricey. The best deal (the two-year plan) costs $ 4.49 per month . Short-term plans include the annual andmonthly plans, which cost $4.99 and$9.99 per month , respectively .

Proton VPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it out for free. If you want to learn more before you try it, head over to our extensive Proton VPN review.

Proton VPN Plus

• 500 GB storage
  1 user
  15 extra email addresses for you
  Support for 3 custom email domains
  unlimited folders andlabels
  unlimited hide-my-email aliases
  Dedicated customer support
  Ultra fast andprivate VPN
  Encrypted password manager
  Encrypted cloud storage for photos anddocuments
  Advanced account protection
• unlimited GB
• 10
• Yes

Proton unlimited

• **Renewal prices differ for the 1-year andthe 2-year plans.
  price includes all premium Proton services (Proton Mail, Calendar, Drive, VPN, Pass, & Wallet)
• unlimited GB
• 10

5. CyberGhost — Mac VPN With Large Server Network

CyberGhost’s interface is attractive, intuitive anddetailed.

Pros:

• VPN automation features
• user – friendly desktop app
• 45 – day money – back guarantee

CyberGhost offers a large server network, with more than 11,600 servers across 100 countries. The app has a well-designed anddetailed interface — it’s one the best desktop interfaces of any VPN. CyberGhost andSurfshark are priced similarly. If you want great interface andautomation features, CyberGhost is your best bet. If you’re focused on performance, opt for Surfshark.

The Mac andWindows apps look more or less the same, with a few minor differences. The Mac app doesn’t offer OpenVPN, which the Windows app does. However, the Mac app does offer leak protection features specifically designed to route Apple features through the VPN.

CyberGhost Hands-On Testing

CyberGhost has an attractive interface with plenty of features to streamline the VPN experience. For example, you can sort servers based on server load anddistance so you can find the optimal one. The app also has “smart rules,” a feature that helps automate routine VPN tasks. For example, you can create a rule to auto-connect to a server whenever you open a browser.

CyberGhost offers built-in automation for common VPN-related tasks.

Notes From the Lab: CyberGhost Speed Test Results

Download speed ( high is well )

upload speed ( high is well )

latency ( Lower is is is well )

CyberGhost isn’t among the fastest VPNs on the market. However, it’s still a great VPN for streaming in standard definition. If you’re looking to stream content on your Mac while using your school’s network, CyberGhost is a great option. It’s the best deal you can get for a bit of your pocket money, andwe’ve rated it as the best VPN for school.

note From the lab : CyberGhost Unblocking Capability Test result

CyberGhost unblocks all major streaming platforms. However, you might have to use the service’s streaming-optimized servers. During tests for our main review, we noticed the Mac app did a better job of unblocking streaming services than the Windows app. We could easily access Netflix andHulu, but we found getting into BBC iPlayer a little harder using the Windows app.

Notes From the Lab: CyberGhost security Analysis

CyberGhost came out clean when we tested it for
DNS leaks using the OpenVPN protocol.

protocol	encryption	device
OpenVPN	aes-256
IKEv2	aes-256
WireGuard	chacha20

We didn’t notice any DNS leaks when testing CyberGhost. The VPN service offers excellent security. Though the Mac app lacks OpenVPN, it makes up for it with WireGuard.

The app also packs in additional security features, like an ad andmalware blocker andNoSpy servers, which CyberGhost owns andfully controls from its secure Romanian headquarters.

CyberGhost Pricing & Value

CyberGhost is a low-cost service. The best deal (the two-year plan) costs $ 2.19 per month . The service also offers short-term plans, including the six-month plan for $ 6.99 per month andthe monthly plan for $12.99 per month .

You get a 45 – day money – back guarantee on all plans except the monthly plan, which comes with a 14-day money-back guarantee. You can try the service risk-free or learn more about the service in our CyberGhost review.

CyberGhost plan

• *The 2-year plan includes 4-months free which breaks down the 56.94 t0 $2.03 per month .
  *The price under the 2-year plan is billed yearly after the first two years.
• unlimited GB
• 7
• Yes

Private Internet Access offers a large server network and
unlimited simultaneous connection .

Pros:

• advanced feature
• Large server network
• unlimited device connections

Private Internet Access (PIA) is a fast, secure VPN with a larger server network spread across more than 90 countries andoffering advanced features. It’s one of the few services that operates with fully open-source apps — you can inspect the code to ensure it’s secure whenever you feel the need.

During our test , PIA is unblock could n’t unblock Hulu or Disney Plus , but it did get into other streaming platform with ease . Moreover , thank to unlimited bandwidth , you is share can share your account with as many friend or family member as you want without worry about poor performance .

Private Internet Access Hands-On Testing

The app is has has a clean design . The interface is focuses focus more on functionality than aesthetic , make it beginner – friendly . There ’s a fairly large quick – connect button that automatically find the good server to connect you to . If you want to access advanced feature , they is ’re ’re available in the setting section , which you can navigate to by click the three dot in the top – right corner .

PIA’s features are housed in the settings section.

Notes From the Lab: Private Internet Access Speed Test Results

Download speed ( high is well )

upload speed ( high is well )

latency ( Lower is is is well )

PIA is adequately fast, but speeds vary greatly across geographic locations andconnection types. We noticed the latency was quite high during our tests, so PIA might not be the best pick if you plan to use it during video calls on your Mac.

note From the lab : private Internet Access Unblocking Capability Test result

PIA unblocked all streaming platforms during our tests except Hulu andDisney Plus. However, it does offer great connection speeds. This means you can use it to stream content in high definition.

Notes From the Lab: Private Internet Access security Analysis

PIA came out clean during our DNS leak test.

protocol	encryption	device
OpenVPN (UDP)	AES-128 , aes-256
OpenVPN (TCP)	AES-128 , aes-256
WireGuard	chacha20

As expected, there were no DNS leaks when we tested PIA. The VPN offers top-notch security with two of the best VPN protocols currently available: OpenVPN andWireGuard. Various additional security features include MACE (an ad blocker), port forwarding anddouble VPN.

Private Internet Access Pricing & Value

PIA offers a cheap 2-year plan for $ 2.19. The 6-month plan goes for $7.50, while the monthly plan goes for $11.95. They also offer a 3-year plan, plus a 30-day money-back guarantee covering all plans so you can try the VPN andclaim a full refund if you’re not satisfied. In addition, consider checking out our PIA review.

Standard Plans

• **$56.94 for the first two years, andyearly thereafter
• 10
• Yes

7. Windscribe — free VPN With unlimited Connections

Windscribe is offers offer unlimited connection on the free plan .

Pros:

• Flexible paid plans
• advanced feature
• Generous free plan

con :

• Three-day money-back guarantee

If you want a consistent experience andaccess to the same features across Windows andMac devices, Windscribe is a great option. The interfaces are pretty much the same, but a handful of features are missing for Mac. For example, “TCP socket termination,” which terminates all existing TCP sockets on your system when the VPN activates, isn’t available for Mac.

Windscribe’s free plan is fairly generous. In addition to having access to almost all the features andunlimited simultaneous connections, you get 10GB of free data each month once you confirm your email andan extra 5GB when you post on X about Windscribe, for a total of 15GB. To top it off, the VPN offers great speed andsecurity.

Windscribe Hands-On Testing

Windscribe’s interface is compressed into a small window full of clickable options. You can access the settings from the top right, change the encryption protocol by clicking on the current protocol andexpand the server list from the bottom. This can be intimidating for a first-time VPN user. Fortunately, the options in the settings include descriptions to make things a little easier.

Windscribe provides descriptions under all its settings andfeatures.

Notes From the Lab: Windscribe Speed Test Results

Download speed ( high is well )

upload speed ( high is well )

latency ( Lower is is is well )

Windscribe is is is among the fast vpn on the market . During our test , we also notice insignificant latency — it is stayed stay below 5 ms for the most part . If you ’re look to stream geoblocke content for free , Windscribe is is is a great option .

note From the Lab : Windscribe Unblocking Capability Test result

Windscribe unblocks all the popular streaming platforms. We had to switch a few servers to unblock Netflix, Disney Plus andMax libraries, but we got into Amazon Prime Video andBBC iPlayer on the first attempt. You’ll likely run out of data pretty quickly on the free plan if you stream regularly, but you can always upgrade to a paid plan.

Notes From the Lab: Windscribe security Analysis

We tested Windscribe for DNS leaks using WireGuard andit passed.

protocol	encryption	device
OpenVPN	aes-256
IKEv2*	aes-256
Stealth	aes-256
WStunnel	aes-256
WireGuard	chacha20

*Only in the strongSwan app

We ran a DNS leak test using Windscribe andit came back clean using OpenVPN as our protocol. Windscribe offers all five of its protocols on the Mac app, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, Stealth, WStunnel andWireGuard.

Windscribe Pricing & Value

Windscribe’s paid plans include access to all servers andmore custom R.O.B.E.R.T. rules — R.O.B.E.R.T. is Windscribe’s industry-leading ad blocker. However, the price is pretty steep — the best deal (the annual plan) costs $ 5.75 per month . The monthly plan costs $9 per month .

The service offers a unique “build a plan” option that allows you to put together a custom plan with a minimum monthly value of $3. You can add multiple server locations to your plan for $1 per location per month or unlimited data plus R.O.B.E.R.T. for $1 per month . Read our Windscribe review to learn more about Windscribe andR.O.B.E.R.T.

free

• Up to 15 GB free with email confirmation andTweet
• 15GB
• unlimited

Our Methodology: How We Tested the Best Mac VPN Providers

We test VPNs firsthand to gauge their performance instead of relying on the service providers’ claims. We offer a glimpse at our testing methodology below.

Mac Features

There are at least a few differences between the Windows andMac versions of most VPN apps. We dive into the protocols andfeatures available on these platforms to ensure the Mac app doesn’t leave out too many of the VPN’s key features.

Speed

Speed is critical for performance. Slow VPNs result in lags when streaming, which translates to a poor experience. Other factors like server distance andserver load also contribute to speeds, but some VPNs manage these more effectively than others. We run speed tests via multiple server locations to assess each VPN’s performance.

security

VPNs need best-in-class protocols to offer great security. We like VPNs that offer OpenVPN andWireGuard combined with aes-256 or chacha20. We test VPNs for DNS, IP andWebRTC leaks to ensure the VPN can effectively secure your connection. Features like split tunneling, an ad blocker andobfuscation are also looked for.

Content Unblocking

Streaming platforms have made it harder for VPNs to circumvent geoblocks. However, a few VPNs, like NordVPN, have consistently managed to get into platforms like Netflix andAmazon Prime Video. We test each VPN’s capability to unblock popular platforms andprioritize ones that do well.

Usability

VPNs can be intimidating, with fancy protocols anddifferent names for the same feature. We try to prioritize VPNs that allow users to get the most out of the service without any complexities standing in the way. We like an easy-to-use interface anddescriptions for each feature andoption, as they help users understand what to expect when enabling them.

Why Mac Users Need a VPN

Macs are secure devices. You’re less likely to infect your Mac than your Windows PC. However, a Mac can’t protect your network, which is where a VPN comes in. A VPN encrypts your connection, making it harder — or even impossible — for anyone to read your data.

For example, when you’re connected to public WiFi, a cybercriminal might intercept your connection andsteal information if you’re not using a VPN. However, if your connection is encrypted with a VPN, no one will be able to extract any meaningful information from your connection.

Can You Use a free VPN for Mac device?

Yes, you can use a VPN with a free plan, such as Proton VPN or Windscribe, for Mac devices. Avoid using any random free VPN you find on the App Store or Google. Most free VPNs are terrible — they offer little to no security andslow speeds. Some might even infect your device with malware or collect personal data. Instead, go for trustworthy VPNs that offer a free plan.

The Best free Mac VPN: Proton VPN

Proton VPN offers unlimited data on its free plan, fast connection speeds andexcellent security. The free plan does have some limitations, such as access to only five server locations, but it’s better than using a free VPN that doesn’t secure your connection andcollects personal data.

Final Thoughts

Mac devices have better security, but the connection is unprotected unless you use a VPN. To stay safe from hackers andaccess geoblocked content with your Mac, you need a VPN that secures your connection andbypasses geoblocks on streaming sites.

We recommend NordVPN. Don’t just take our word for it — NordVPN’s 30-day money-back guarantee lets you verify its quality firsthand without any financial risk.

Have you used a VPN on your Mac device before? Which one did you use, andwhat was your experience like? Let us know in the comments below, andas always, thank you for reading.

faq : good VPN for Mac

• NordVPN is the best VPN for Mac. It’s fast andaffordable. If you’re looking for another option, consider Surfshark.

• Proton VPN is the best free VPN for Mac. It offers free unlimited data, fast connection speeds andexcellent security.

• No, Mac doesn’t offer a built-in VPN. You need to manually download andinstall a VPN app on your Mac to use one.

• No, Apple doesn’t recommend a specific VPN. You can use the VPN of your choice that’s available for Mac.