- Internet censorship is fairly widespread across Asia and due to regional restrictions, you likely won’t be able to acccess your favorite streaming apps.
- With the right VPN, you’ll be able to watch geo-blocked services and sidestep web-blocking systems easily, even in countries like China.
- I’ve personally tested almost 80 popular VPNs to see which are best for anyone living in Asian countries like Japan, Malaysia, India, or South Korea.
- NordVPN is my top VPN for Asia. This service offers a huge network, high speeds, and first-class privacy. Also works with every major streaming platform. Includes a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
Asian countries often have quite strict rules about what kind of content you’re allowed to access online. In fact, depending on where exactly you are in Asia, there may be repressive surveillance to contend with as well. Even in countries like Japan (considered “free” by civil liberties organization Freedom House), tourists can’t access their usual streaming services due to regional limitations. The good news is that you can keep your activities private and access whatever you using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). But which are the best VPNs for Asia? Let’s find out!
I’ll cover each of the best Asia VPNs in more detail below, but in case you’re short on time, here’s a quick summary:
A shortlist of the best VPNs for Asia:
- NordVPN My top-rated Asia VPN. Delivers superfast speeds, comes packed with security features, and works with virtually any streaming app. No issues getting around strict web censorship. Has a 30-day money-back guarantee.
TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for Asia. - Surfshark Best budget VPN for Asia. A security-first service that prides itself on the ability to unblock a huge range of content. Offers decent speeds, unlimited bandwidth, and a no-logs policy. Works consistently in China.
- Total VPN A secure and versatile VPN with lots of servers in Asia. Doesn’t work in China but is a great option for any other task. Very high speeds.
- ProtonVPN Trusted and reliable VPN with many advanced features ideal for bypassing censorship in Asia. Has 24/7 live chat support.
- ExpressVPN Operates a large network of servers that can unblock most of the popular online streaming sites. Goes to great lengths to protect users’ privacy and security. Works well in Asia, including China.
- IPVanish This provider boasts a zero-logs policy and the ability to secure all of your devices simultaneously. Steady speeds and great streaming ability.
- CyberGhost A beginner-friendly VPN that’s perfect for novices. Makes it easy to access geo-blocked streaming apps in Asia and doesn’t keep any logs.
- PureVPN Great value VPN to get an Asian IP. Easy to use and provides robust encryption. Includes a kill switch to protect your web visits from surveillance.
- PrivateVPN Great for accessing geo-restricted Asian content. Works in China. Strong on security and privacy.
Many VPNs claim to protect your privacy and offer a fast, reliable connection but most (especially free VPNs) limit your connection speed or leak information.
We regularly test the top 70 VPNs for security and speed and this list only includes VPNs which are fast, reliable and are highly rated for privacy and security. Plus we only recommend VPNs which offer a full-money back guarantee allowing you to try them risk free.
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NordVPN is offering a fully-featured risk-free 30-day trial if you sign up at this page. You can use the VPN rated #1 for Asia with no restrictions for a month—great if you want to access blocked content or protect your online privacy while on a trip.
There are no hidden terms—just contact support within 30 days if you decide NordVPN isn't right for you and you'll get a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here.
VPNs for Asia: A comparison
I’ve tested and compared the most important features of the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – the #1 choice VPN for Asia.
| No value | NordVPN | Surfshark | TotalVPN | Proton VPN | ExpressVPN | IPVanish | CyberGhost | PureVPN | PrivateVPN |
| Website | NordVPN.com | Surfshark.com | TotalVPN.com | ProtonVPN.com | ExpressVPN.com | IPVanish.com | Cyberghost.com | PureVPN.com | PrivateVPN.com | Ranking for Asia | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | Avg Speed for Asia | 196.26 Mbps | 187.56 Mbps | 173.04 Mbps | 151.54 Mbps | 122.4 Mbps | 156.59 Mbps | 137.22 Mbps | 129.53 Mbps | 51.94 Mbps | Streaming services | Netflix Amazon Prime HBO BBC iPlayer Hulu YouTube TV | Netflix Amazon Prime HBO BBC iPlayer Hulu YouTube TV | Netflix Amazon Prime HBO BBC iPlayer Hulu YouTube TV | Netflix Amazon Prime Hulu | Netflix Amazon Prime HBO BBC iPlayer Hulu YouTube TV | Netflix Amazon Prime Hulu Disney+ | Netflix Amazon Prime HBO | Netflix Amazon Prime Hulu | Netflix Hulu | Server countries | 130 | 100 | 80+ | 129 | 105 | 118 | 100 | 93 | 63 | Works in China | Activity logs | No identifying data | No identifying data |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best deal (per month) | $3.39 Up to 74% off 2 year plans | $2.29 Up to 87% OFF + 3 months free | $1.59 SAVE 80% on an annual plan | $2.99 SAVE 70% on a 2-year plan | $2.44 SAVE 81% + 4 months free on 2 year basic plan | $12.99 Best MONTHLY Deal $12.99 | $2.19 SAVE 83% on the 2 year plan + 2 months free! | $1.99 Up to 87% off on 5 year plans | $2.00 Save 85% on a one year plan + 24-months free |
My process for finding the best Asia VPNs
With so many VPNs to choose from, I knew my testing would have to be extremely thorough. I found the top Asia VPNs by evaluating more than 70 leading providers in the five categories below:
- Speed: It’s vital that your chosen VPN is quick enough for day-to-day tasks like streaming, gaming or browsing. To find which were fastest, I carried out multiple speed tests while connected to each provider’s servers in Taiwan.
- Server availability: Next, providers were scored on the overall size and spread of their networks, total server counts (where this data was available), and how many Asian server locations each offered.
- Security and privacy: Providers were ranked based on how robust their security toolkits are. This involved looking at each VPN’s privacy policy, audit history, encryption strength, and much more.
- Ease of use: It’s nice when a service works smoothly. That’s why this category rewards VPNs that make everyday usage as easy as possible by including features like 24/7 support or anti-censorship features.
- Streaming: I tested each service against stubborn streaming platforms like Netflix, iQIYI, and Hulu to see how many each could unblock, and how reliably.
You can read more about how I test and rank VPNs in the methodology section below. For now, let’s take a look at the ones that made the cut.
The best VPNs for Asia
Here’s my list of the best VPNs for Asia:
1. NordVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- FireTV
Website: www.NordVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
NordVPN
9.5Scores calculated algorithmically.
| Ease of use | 9.6 |
|---|---|
| Security & privacy | 9.5 |
| Server availability | 9.3 |
| Streaming | 9.2 |
| Taiwan speed testing | 10.0 |
NordVPN is the best overall Asia VPN. It offers access to 8,000 servers in 120+ countries, with two different methods for sidestepping censorship: obfuscated servers and a custom NordWhisper protocol. I can confirm that this VPN works in high-censorship countries like China and can sidestep virtually any regional restriction, making it great for changing Netflix regions or gaming with friends. There’s a 10 simultaneous connection limit and 24/7 customer support over live chat.
When it comes to performance, NordVPN is one of the best. I tested its Taiwanese servers at three times of day using a 250 Mbps connection, eventually getting an average speed of 196.26 Mbps. That’s barely any impact, all things considered, and means that NordVPN is fast enough for all kinds of tasks including streaming, video calling, or torrenting anonymously. Let’s take a look at those results:
This provider comes equipped with powerful security features like a customizable kill switch, uncrackable encryption, and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks. It can also block ads and trackers automatically, allow certain apps to pass through unencrypted, or alert you if your details are found on the dark net. Crucially, NordVPN follows a no-logging policy which means it can’t reveal what you do online under any circumstances. There’s even the option to sign up anonymously using either cryptocurrency or gift cards, which is rare to see.
NordVPN has its own Windows, Android, iOS, MacOS, and Linux apps. Alternatively, its website offers manual setup instructions for a wide range of routers.
Buy this VPN if:
- You need a VPN that reliably works in China to bypass the Great Firewall
- You want top-tier speeds across Asia for streaming and gaming
- You’d like a provider with a large presence in Asia
- You’re in the market for a novice-friendly VPN with strong security
- You want task-specific options (P2P servers, Double VPN)
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You want unlimited devices on one plan (capped at 10)
BEST VPN FOR ASIA:NordVPN is my top choice. A solid, well-rounded VPN provider that works well in Asia. Unblocks most popular streaming sites. Has strong security features and allows up to 10 devices to be used simultaneously. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee making it risk-free.
Read our full review of NordVPN.
2. Surfshark
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.Surfshark.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Surfshark
9.2Scores calculated algorithmically.
| Ease of use | 9.1 |
|---|---|
| Security & privacy | 9.5 |
| Server availability | 8.7 |
| Streaming | 9.2 |
| Taiwan speed testing | 9.4 |
Surfshark is the best budget VPN for Asia. This provider just expanded its network, and now has 4,500 servers in 100 countries (including many in Asia). Its NoBorders mode makes it nice and easy to get around strict digital censorship, and I had great results using this VPN alongside services like BBC iPlayer, Max, and Netflix. Best of all, unlike most other services, Surfshark has no connection limit. Customer support is available 24 hours per day over live chat.
To get a better understanding of this VPN’s performance, I ran several speed tests at different times of day using Surfshark’s servers in Taiwan. It returned an average speed of 187.56 Mbps and was exceptionally consistent, with just 4 Mbps of difference between its highest and lowest results. Here are my findings:
Even though it’s a cheap VPN, Surfshark takes your privacy seriously. Aside from the NoBorders mode, its toolkit includes unbreakable encryption, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, ad and tracker-blocker, and a kill switch as well as an adult content filter. There’s a strict no-logs policy in place, as evidenced by multiple independent audits. You can even take advantage of its split tunneling feature to access local content without losing access to services from abroad. Anonymous signup is possible if you pay for the VPN in Bitcoin.
Surfshark offers Windows, Android, iOS, Linux, and macOS apps. You can also manually configure it for use with supported network routers.
Buy this VPN if:
- You need unlimited device connections to cover family or friends
- You plan to use it in high-censorship countries and need NoBorders mode
- You’re looking for a speedy and versatile VPN with great streaming ability
- You prefer a privacy-friendly signup (supports crypto payments)
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You want access to advanced features without having to upgrade
BEST BUDGET OPTION:Surfshark is my top low-cost VPN. Delivers very high speeds and has no problems accessing the wider internet in places with heavy censorship. Protect every device you own at once. All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full review of Surfshark here.
3. Total VPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: TotalVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
TotalVPN
8.5Scores calculated algorithmically.
| Ease of use | 9.4 |
|---|---|
| Security & privacy | 9.1 |
| Server availability | 6.9 |
| Streaming | 8.8 |
| Taiwan speed testing | 8.4 |
Total VPN is another fantastic option that’s well worth your time. It operates servers in 80+ countries, including Taiwan, South Korea, Japan, Thailand, Laos, Hong Kong, and Indonesia. Not only that, it’s able to access plenty of region-locked services, including Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+, regardless of your actual location. Customer support is available via a ticket system, and users can secure five devices at once.
I ran speed tests on Total VPN’s Taiwanese servers in the morning, at noon, and in the evening, using a 250 Mbps connection. The average recorded speed was 173.04 Mbps, making this one of the quickest providers in this list. Simply put, you shouldn’t notice any issues, even when performing data-intensive tasks.
Total VPN makes it as easy as possible to hide your browsing habits from snoopers like your ISP. That’s because its DNS and IPv6 leak protection, kill switch, and uncrackable 256-bit AES encryption are all enabled by default and backed up by a strict no-logs policy. This provider also offers an obfuscated protocol called Hydra that can help you get around some forms of online censorship (though not China’s Great Firewall, unfortunately).
Total VPN has its own Windows, Android, iOS, and macOS apps. Currently, there’s no support for Linux systems or routers.
Buy this VPN if:
- You’d like a beginner-friendly service with pre-configured security features
- You’re looking for a versatile VPN that can handle any day-to-day task
- You want to use one of the fastest services on the market
- You’re interested in getting both a VPN and an antivirus app
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You’re hoping to sidestep Chinese internet censorship
- You want live chat support for instant help
QUICK AND RELIABLE:Total VPN is a strong choice for users in Asia thanks to its large network, strong security, and impressive speeds. What’s more, its annual plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee (though there’s also a 14-day guarantee on shorter-term plans).
Take a look at our in-depth Total VPN review.
4. ProtonVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.ProtonVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Proton VPN
8.5Scores calculated algorithmically.
| Ease of use | 9.6 |
|---|---|
| Security & privacy | 9.3 |
| Server availability | 9.5 |
| Streaming | 7.2 |
| Taiwan speed testing | 7.0 |
ProtonVPN is a well-known service that operates more than 15,000 servers across 120 countries. It’s able to reliably access even the most difficult streaming platforms, from Amazon Prime Video to Youku, and torrenting is permitted too. This VPN does have a Stealth protocol so that you can bypass some VPN-blocking but unfortunately it won’t work in places like China. Users can connect up to 10 devices at the same time and chat with support staff using the 24/7 live chat system.
I wanted to see what kind of performance ProtonVPN’s Tawanese servers were capable of, which is why I tested them at several different times of day (morning, noon, and afternoon). ProtonVPN did very well here, with an average speed of 151.54 Mbps, though I’d prefer if its speeds fluctuated a little less. Take a look:
Straight off the bat, ProtonVPN refuses to log any details of your activities, and it’s been independently-audited to prove it. This service keeps you safe using 256-bit ChaCha20 encryption, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and a kill switch, but it’s packed with more advanced features too. You could try the split tunneling and port forwarding functionality, for instance, encrypt your data twice with a multi-hop connection, or block ads and trackers automatically.
ProtonVPN has its own apps for Windows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, and Android systems. It can also be manually installed on ost types of router.
Buy this VPN if:m
- You need a VPN with advanced features like Tor over VPN and multi-hop
- You want to access Asian streaming platforms (like iQIYI and Tencent Video)
- You’d like a VPN that supports torrenting with dedicated P2P servers
- You want to start with their free plan before committing
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- Your priority is working reliably in China (Not reliable there)
- You want simpler functionality (It might overwhelm beginner users)
FULLY FEATURED:ProtonVPN is a versatile service with a stellar reputation. Lots of servers in Asian countries and some of the strongest privacy tools around. Great for streaming, gaming, or P2P activity. Paid plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Find out more in our ProtonVPN review.
5. ExpressVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.ExpressVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ExpressVPN
8.2Scores calculated algorithmically.
| Ease of use | 9.0 |
|---|---|
| Security & privacy | 9.2 |
| Server availability | 8.8 |
| Streaming | 9.2 |
| Taiwan speed testing | 5.0 |
ExpressVPN is one of the only services that works reliably in China, thanks to its automatic obfuscation that hides the fact you’re using a VPN at all. There’s even a second version of the website that’s accessible in China despite the main ExpressVPN site being blocked. This VPN has servers in 105 countries, almost 30 of which are in Asia. I was able to access Netflix, iQUIYI, Hulu JP, and more while connected. This VPN permits between 10 and 14 simultaneous connections and offers 24-hour assistance over live chat.
In my latest speed tests, ExpressVPN showed that it’s fast enough for anything. With an average speed of 122.4 Mbps on a 250 Mbps connection, you can expect silky smooth playback when streaming, even at peak times. It’s great for torrenting too, downloading a 1 GB file in a little over a minute. Here are my full test results:
By default, ExpressVPN uses its own Lightway protocol, which can keep you safe even while switching between networks. This is backed up with a kill switch, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and a tool that blocks ads, trackers, and adult content automatically. This VPN doesn’t keep any logs of your activities and has been professionally audited several times. if you’re concerned about privacy, you can sign up anonymously using a disposable email address and paying in Bitcoin.
This VPN recently introduced a new tiered pricing system: Basic plans start at $3.49, Advanced at $4.49, and Pro at $7.49. Apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Amazon Fire TV, Kindle Fire tablets, and certain wi-fi routers.
Buy this VPN if:
- You need superb privacy and security, with a proven no-logs policy
- You’d like a speedy, reliable provider for everyday usage
- You require a VPN that works in China and other high-censorship countries
- You prefer a simple, user-friendly app with support for a variety of devices
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You are looking for a cheaper VPN (pricier than other providers)
- You want a high level of control over advanced settings
COMPREHENSIVE SECURITY:ExpressVPN has a large server network that is optimized for consistently quick connections. It has user-friendly apps for all operating systems. It’s hard to beat on privacy and security. There is a 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans.
Read our full review of ExpressVPN.
6. IPVanish
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.IPVanish.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
IPVanish
8.2Scores calculated algorithmically.
| Ease of use | 8.1 |
|---|---|
| Security & privacy | 8.7 |
| Server availability | 8.9 |
| Streaming | 7.8 |
| Taiwan speed testing | 7.3 |
IPVanish would be a fantastic choice for anyone traveling in Asia thanks to its large network (3,200 servers in over 100 countries) and the fact that it lets you connect as many devices as you like. Better yet, it works with a ton of popular geo-blocked services including Hulu, Disney+, and Netflix. Whether you’re visiting Turkey, Japan, or Malaysia, this VPN makes staying safe as easy as possible. Customer support is available 24 hours per day over live chat.
I measured the performance of IPVanish’s Taiwanese servers at various times of day whle connected to a 250 Mbps test server. This service delivered an average speed of 156.59 Mbps, which is extremely quick and well above what’s needed for any day to day activity. There was barely any variability either, with speeds that fluctuated by just over 8 Mbps in an eight-hour period. See for yourself:
IPVanish boasts an extremely robust security offering based around its unbreakable ChaCha20 encryption. DNS and IPv6 leaks are automatically prevented and there’s a kill switch that’ll stop you from browsing unprotected after a sudden disconnection. That’s far from all this service has to offer though; there’s also a proven zero-logs policy, multi-hop servers, ad and tracker-blocking, and a tool that checks whether links are actually safe to open or not. While IPVanish does have obfuscation, this only works on OpenVPN connections and won’t help in China, unfortunately.
This service has monthly, annual, and two-year plans, plus an Advanced subscription tier that includes the VPN, a cloud-based browser, and 1 TB of secure online storage. Naturally, longer subscriptions end up being cheaper per month.
IPVanish apps are available for MacOS, Windows, Android, and iOS devices. You can manually install it on routers and Linux systems (check the website for details).
Buy this VPN if:
- You need unlimited simultaneous connections (Ideal for large households)
- You’re looking for a provider with high speeds and strong security
- You require a VPN that works well with low-powered devices
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You’re concerned about VPN jurisdiction (IPVanish is based in the US)
- You want the option to pay anonymously using Bitcoin
UNLIMITED CONNECTIONS:IPVanish is a great VPN for Asia thanks to its unlimited connections, consistently high speeds, and wide range of privacy tools. Doesn’t keep any logs and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee on annual plans.
Read our full review of IPVanish.
7. CyberGhost
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.Cyberghost.com
Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS
CyberGhost
8.1Scores calculated algorithmically.
| Ease of use | 9.1 |
|---|---|
| Security & privacy | 8.9 |
| Server availability | 8.9 |
| Streaming | 7.8 |
| Taiwan speed testing | 6.0 |
CyberGhost is a strong choice for anyone who’s never used a VPN before. It has streamlined, intuitive apps and servers in around 100 countries, with a large presence in Asia. Now, while this service doesn’t work in China, it does tell you which servers are best for torrenting, browsing the web safely, or unblocking your favorite streaming service. There are even special NoSpy servers kept in the VPN’s Romanian headquarters for maximum protection. Customer support is available 24 hours per day via live chat and users can connect up to seven devices at once.
Following a full day of testing, CyberGhost’s Taiwanese servers achieved an average speed of 137.22 Mbps with roughly 8 Mbps of difference between its best and worst results. So what does this mean for you? Realistically, you shouldn’t notice any stuttering, buffering, or other performance problems so long as your base internet speeds are reasonably quick. Let’s see how this VPN did at different times of day:
This VPN doesn’t compromise on privacy, as evidenced by its extensive audit history and proven no-logging policy. However, that’s far from the only privacy tool CyberGhost has. There’s also leak protection, a kill switch, and unbreakable encryption as well as automatic wifi protection and ad and tracker-blocking. Users can allow certain sites to pass through unencrypted, set up smart rules to govern when the VPN connects on its own, and obfuscate their traffic using the remote port connection tool. This provider even accepts Bitcoin payments.
CyberGhost provides apps for Windows, macOS, Android, Linux, and iOS. Its website explains how to install this VPN directly on your home router too.
Buy this VPN if:
- You need a beginner-friendly VPN with a simple interface and easy setup
- You’d like access to a vast number of servers in Asia, including Pakistan
- You want a dedicated streaming server optimized for platforms like Netflix
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You need a VPN that works in China
- You prefer a VPN geared towards power users
VALUE AND PERFORMANCE:CyberGhost is a novice-friendly VPN. A strong choice for anyone visiting Asia thanks to its high speeds and streaming-optimized servers. Doesn’t keep any logs and offers a generous 45-day money-back guarantee on long-term susbcriptions.
Read our full CyberGhost review.
8. PureVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.PureVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 31 DAYS
PureVPN
7.5Scores calculated algorithmically.
| Ease of use | 9.1 |
|---|---|
| Security & privacy | 8.7 |
| Server availability | 6.7 |
| Streaming | 7.3 |
| Taiwan speed testing | 5.5 |
PureVPN is another low-cost service with a lot to offer. Its network spans an impressive 65 countries and since it obfuscates your traffic automatically, you’ll be able to browse safely in China, Indonesia, Vietnam, or anywhere else. I can confirm that PureVPN works with Asian streaming platforms like iQIYI, Tencent Video, Youku Tudou, HOOQ, ViU, LINE TV, and WeTV but if you’re having trouble, live chat-based support is available day or night. Up to 10 devices can be secured simultaneously.
So just how quick is this VPN? To find out, I put its Taiwanese servers to the test at various points throughout a typical day. PureVPN’s average speed was 129.53 Mbps, meaning you’ll be able to watch 4K video, download large files, stream your gaming, and video call your friends without any noticeable slowdown. Here are my findings:
If you’re concerned about digital surveillance, PureVPN has you covered. It was actually the first major provider to be independently-audited, proving that it follows a strict no-logging policy. You’ll be protected using leak prevention tools, a kill switch, and uncrackable ChaCha20 encryption, as well as a built-in ad and tracker-blocker. Finally, PureVPN has automatic wifi protection to make sure that you never accidentally use a public hotspot with the VPN turned off.
While my experience with the live chat support was not entirely satisfactory due to slow responses, this minor issue does not overshadow the overall reliability and effectiveness of the VPN. PureVPN apps are available for iOS, Android, MacOS, Windows, and Linux, with manual setup required for routers.
Buy this VPN if:
- You need a budget-friendly VPN that works in China and Vietnam
- You’re looking for a VPN with WireGuard support for fast and secure streaming
- You want a VPN with strong privacy protections, including no-logs
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You need instant access to live chat (Support can be slow to respond)
- You want port forwarding included without additional charges
FANTASTIC VALUE:PureVPN is suitable for virtually any task whether it’s getting an Asian IP address, streaming TV from back home, or torrenting anonymously. It’s quick, affordable, privacy-conscious, and offers a 31-day money-back guarantee on all plans.
Find out more in our PureVPN review.
9. PrivateVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.PrivateVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
PrivateVPN
6.2Scores calculated algorithmically.
| Ease of use | 8.2 |
|---|---|
| Security & privacy | 8.6 |
| Server availability | 5.4 |
| Streaming | 7.8 |
| Taiwan speed testing | 1.0 |
PrivateVPN as you might expect, puts your privacy first. It owns and manages all 200 of its servers in-house, meaning you’re completely safe from outside interference. Its network covers 60+ countries including Japan and South Korea, making it ideal for streaming region-locked platforms like Netflix or KBS abroad. This VPN works flawlessly in China so long as the Stealth mode is enabled, and with a 10-connection limit, you’ll be able to protect all of your most-used devices. if you need help, there’s 24/7 customer support via email or live chat.
PrivateVPN was slower than most of the other providers I tested but still competitive, with an average speed of 51.94 Mbps and roughly 7 Mbps of fluctuation. For context, that’s well above what’s required for live streaming, playing fast-paced online games, or downloading large files. If your base internet connection is on the slower side, though, you may want to consider a different provider.
There aren’t many other services that take security as seriously as PrivateVPN. It allows you to switch as needed between 128-bit and 256-bit AES encryption for higher speeds or stronger security, prevents DNS and IPv6 leaks, and its kill switch stops it from sending data the moment your connection drops. PrivateVPN has a zero-logs policy, a toggleable stealth mode, and split tunneling support in case you’re only looking to encrypt traffic from specific websites or apps. You can pay anonymously using Bitcoin or Ethereum.
The PrivateVPN app is available for Mac, Windows, iOS, Android, and Amazon Fire. Connections for routers and Linux must be configured manually.
Buy this VPN if:
- You need a VPN that works reliably in China
- You’re ideal provider should work with a wide range of streaming sites
- You require a secure and private VPN with a no-logs policy
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You require a larger server network
- You need faster speeds for high-demand activities
GREAT FOR TORRENTING:PrivateVPN has what it takes to browse safely in Asia. Good for general-purpose use and streaming as well as beating China’s Great Firewall. Boasts powerful privacy features and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full review of PrivateVPN.
Methodology: How I found the best VPNs for Asia
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Recent VPN Product Updates
To ensure my reviews are always up-to-date, I keep a close eye on recent updates. Here are some of the biggest developments from my top Asia VPNs:
NordVPN
- Threat Protection Pro™ now checks links inside Gmail and Yahoo inboxes before users click them (December 2025)
- Windows users now receive AI-powered “Fastest server” recommendations based on live network conditions (December 2025)
- The Linux app has been made open-source to boost transparency and user accessibility (October 2025)
- Browser extensions now include timezone spoofing alongside location spoofing (October 2025)
- Scam call defense now detects a wider range of suspicious calls (September 2025)
Surfshark
- An AI-driven email scam detection tool was added to Surfshark One and One+, scanning messages for phishing risks (December 2025)
- Dedicated IP support was added to the Linux GUI app, extending the feature to desktop Linux users (December 2025)
- New 100Gbps servers in Amsterdam to handle increased speed needs (October 2025)
- Network expanded to 4,500+ servers for broader worldwide coverage (October 2025)
- Released a child-safety web filter to block harmful online content (October 2025)
Total VPN
- Apple TV integration completed through tvOS application development
- Android dependability reinforced via “always on” killswitch mechanism
- iOS and macOS automation enhanced through “connect on demand” functionality
- Universal performance improved via WireGuard protocol implementation
- Traffic sophistication increased through Android split tunneling
Proton VPN
- Users running iOS 16 or iPadOS 16 must now upgrade their devices, as support for those versions has been discontinued (January 2026)
- The NetShield ad blocker now catches nearly all known phishing domains and shows fewer false positives (October 2025)
- New server locations have launched in Panama, Armenia, Mongolia, and Laos (October 2025)
- Additional cryptocurrency payment methods are available, including Monero, Litecoin, and Ethereum (October 2025)
ExpressVPN
- Lightway received stability improvements with the Router v4.2.8 update (December 2025)
- The iPad app has been revamped to provide a more tablet-native experience (October 2025)
- New tier-based pricing introduced: Basic ($3.49), Advanced ($4.49), Pro ($7.49) (September 2025)
- EventVPN launched as a free offering meant to shake up the free VPN market (September 2025)
Free VPNs for Asia
I know it’s tempting to look for a free VPN for Asia, but you really should resist the allure of free VPNs. Some of them are great for quick access to restricted sites however, most free VPNs have very limited server locations and capabilities and will struggle to get around internet censorship, especially in tricky countries like China. When looking for a VPN for Asia, you need to be sure of top-level encryption to keep your connections private — free VPNs don’t offer that.
The free versions of reputable VPNs are often good as a trial. However, they usually come with data throughput limits. Activities such as online gaming, torrenting, and streaming video chew through those data allowances very quickly. Plus, their encryption standards can leave you open to malware, and some have been known to record your data and sell it to third parties. So I recommend using a reputable VPN for Asia instead of just relying on whatever is freely available.
Internet restrictions in Asia
Collectively, Asian countries are not doing great where privacy is concerned. In fact, according to Freedom House, 23 of the 30 lowest-scoring countries for online freedom are in Asia. No surprises here, China was the worst offender overall, with just nine points out of 100 due to its repressive censorship. It’s not all doom and gloom though: Taiwan and Japan have two of the highest results in the world, scoring 79 points and 78 points, respectively.
Internet censorship varies from country to country so it’s best to thoroughly research your intended destination’s rules before arrival. Below, I’ll give a brief overview of the kind of restrictions you’ll face in some of the most-popular Asian travel destinations.
Remember: the legal landscape over internet and web access in many Asian countries is messy. The definition of what is and isn’t illegal is left intentionally blurred, and that means that many governments can arrest people on a whim whether or not the sites that they visited were on a blacklist.
China
All search engines in China are severely restricted. Although you can access Google in China, you won’t be able to get to the North American or European versions of the service. Instead, you will be redirected to the Hong Kong service. In fact, most Google brands, including YouTube, Google Drive, and Gmail, are banned in China. Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter are all banned in China, as are overseas video streaming services, such as Netflix.
Pakistan
In Pakistan, the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Bill gives the government the right to prosecute Pakistani passport holders for accessing banned sites even if they were outside of the country when they committed the transgression and even if they were born abroad and have never actually visited Pakistan. The advent of internet access on flights means that you can be prosecuted by the Pakistani government for accessing a banned website while flying over the country — even if your plane doesn’t touch down there.
Websites covering LGBTQIA+ topics are completely banned throughout the Middle East and also in Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Indonesia. A long list of Asian locations ban dating sites. Again, all of the Middle East is on that list, plus India, Indonesia, Pakistan, Myanmar, and China.
South Asia
Governments across Asia heavily censor international entertainment. The temptation to access overseas video streaming services, such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, or the websites of US or European TV stations, is very strong. However, accessing uncensored entertainment in many Asian countries can be illegal. Not only that, most TV streaming websites won’t let you access their videos from abroad. VPNs can help you get around both of these hurdles to access entertainment from other continents when you are in Asia.
Muslim countries are particularly hard on pornography and dating sites. Also, as a lot of countries in the Middle East are autocratic, any political dissent gets a website banned in those places. Surprisingly, gambling sites are banned in a lot of South Asian countries, including India and Bangladesh. In South Korea, online gambling can get you a jail sentence of three years. Religious controversy is strongly punished in large areas of Asia, and many countries have very severe penalties for people who even joke about the state’s main religion.
Disclaimer: Although Comparitech has spent hours researching this topic, nothing above should be taken as legal advice. Comparitech encourages you to consult local laws or perhaps even seek a professional’s opinion before attempting to use a VPN if you’re not completely sure that doing so is legal in your country.
Why do you need a VPN for Asia?
There are several practical reasons to use a VPN in Asia.
If you’re a visitor, a VPN enables you to more easily access services from your home country. Banking websites may block you if they detect that you’re connecting from an IP address abroad. You can get around this by connecting to a VPN server in your home country before logging on. The same goes for accessing your favorite streaming services, which might otherwise be unavailable while you’re in Asia.
A VPN will also ensure that your connection is protected by encrypting all of the traffic flowing between your device and the VPN server. This is important if you plan on using public Wi-Fi, which may not be secure.
As I’ve mentioned above, many Asian countries censor the internet more than you might otherwise be used to. This means sites you’re familiar with may become inaccessible. If you’re planning on visiting one of the more restrictive Asian countries, using a VPN will give you access to more of the internet while also preventing your online activities from being monitored by the state.
VPNs for Asia: FAQs
Which VPN is best for Asian servers?
Most major VPN providers know the value of having a strong server base in Asia. This not only allows Western users to access on-demand services like Netflix Japan, Hotstar, and Chinese TV channels; it also means that customers in these locations can browse and stream safely without having to reduce their speeds by connecting to a server hundreds of miles away.
In terms of the sheer number of countries covered, ExpressVPN is one of the best. It has servers in fairly uncommon locations like Bhutan, Brunei, and Laos, as well as the more common Japan, India, and South Korea. If you’re looking for reliability, NordVPN might be the better option, though: it covers fewer countries but has almost twice as many servers, which could help reduce lag at peak times.
Are VPNs legal in Asia?
Although some governments have pushed for restrictions on VPN usage, they are legitimate Internet privacy tools, and so VPNs are legal in most countries. In fact, they’re only officially banned in 10 countries around the world. Unfortunately, though, eight of these ten locations are in Asia:
- China
- Iran
- Iraq
- North Korea
- Oman
- Turkey
- Turkmenistan
- United Arab Emirates
And since there can be serious consequences for breaking the law in these countries, I strongly recommend you make yourself aware of the local laws and regulations before attempting to use a VPN when traveling.
How will I know if my IP address has been changed to a location in Asia?
It’s actually very quick and easy to check if your IP address has been changed to a location in Asia. First, make sure you’re connected to a server in a country in Asia. This should be easily visible in the VPN app. However, you can also verify the change through a third-party tool such as Comparitech’s IP Address Check or whatismyip.com<. These options both show an approximate location (this should match the VPN server location in Asia) and your current IP address.
Should foreigners use a VPN or a proxy server in Singapore?
Foreigners visiting or living in Singapore should use a VPN over a proxy server. Proxy servers can be helpful for some purposes, but they are less secure than a VPN and may leave you vulnerable to malicious attacks.
One of my recommended VPNs can help protect your data, activity, and location from being monitored by anyone with access to the Internet. In addition, it allows you to bypass geographic restrictions imposed on certain websites and streaming services.
When searching for a reliable VPN provider in Singapore, ensure it has high-security features such as solid encryption protocols, DNS leak prevention measures, and no-logging policies regarding user activities or traffic data stored on their network servers.
Can hotels in Asia see where I live when I browse their site with a VPN?
When you use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to browse hotel websites in Asia, the hotels generally cannot see your actual location, however it’s possible to get different rates based on where you connect from. A VPN can help with this by masking your real IP address by routing your internet connection through a server in a different location, which could be anywhere in the world.
For instance, if you are in the United States and connect to a VPN server in Japan, the hotel website will see the IP address of the VPN server in Japan. Therefore, the site perceives you as browsing from Japan.
While VPNs are effective at hiding your IP address, it’s important to note that they do not provide complete online invisibility. Hotel websites can still potentially track you through other means like cookies or browser fingerprinting, especially if you have allowed permissions on your browser or device.
I lived in Bangkok and it was very hard to watch any professional sport from the US like the NBA or the NFL even with my VPN software they could detect that I was in Asia I guess through my IP Address.