- If you’re concerned about your privacy while using WeChat, a VPN subscription is the best way to protect yourself.
- When you connect to a VPN server, you can hide your actual location and keep the messages you send secure. By spoofing your location, you can also access geo-restricted content abroad.
- We’ve performed hands-on testing on more than 70 top VPNs to find out which are best for using WeChat.
- NordVPN is our top recommendation for WeChat users. With strong security features, fast speeds, and first-class unblocking ability, it’s the leading choice.
There are over a billion active WeChat users, but despite being one of the world’s most popular instant messaging apps, this service has some real privacy issues. Below, we’ll explain how to protect yourself, hide your actual location, and keep the contents of your messages as secure as possible with the best VPNs for WeChat.
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) encrypt your internet connection and spoof your location, preventing government surveillance and allowing you to access your usual websites wherever you travel. Of course, there’s only so much you can do, given WeChat’s privacy policy, but we’ll discuss this later.
In a hurry? Here’s a quick guide to the best VPNs for WeChat, but you can also scroll further down for a more in-depth review of each.
Best VPNs for accessing WeChat from anywhere:
- NordVPN: The best WeChat VPN. Secures your network activity and unblocks most messenger apps, even in China. Has a strict no-logging policy and a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for WeChat. - Surfshark: Our top low-cost option. Boasts high speeds, strong security features, and a total lack of connection limits. Works flawlessly in China.
- Total VPN: This beginner-friendly service works perfectly with WeChat and most other messaging apps. It’s fast, privacy-conscious, and very easy to use.
- ProtonVPN: A speedy, secure VPN with an audited no-logs policy. Has no issues accessing WeChat, Facebook Messenger, or WhatsApp abroad.
- ExpressVPN: A fast, secure VPN that’ll let you privately browse WeChat from anywhere. Minimal setup required, and several mirror sites for Chinese users.
- IPVanish: Quick and lightweight, with a top-notch security offering. This zero-logs VPN lets you connect as many devices as you like and unblocks several popular streaming services, as well as WeChat.
- CyberGhost: This beginner-friendly VPN offers reliable connections to 11,500+ servers and a great set of security tools. Great for making video calls.
- PrivateVPN: Works in China and offers a higher degree of privacy than most of its rivals. Great for streaming and allows 10 device connections at once.
- Private Internet Access: Versatile, easy to use, and effective at unblocking stubborn geo-blocked services. Expansive server network.
VPNs often claim to keep you safe and private online but many VPNs (especially free ones) leak information.
We regularly test the top 70 VPNs for security and this list only includes VPNs which keep you anonymous and don't track your activity. Plus we only recommend VPNs which offer a full-money back guarantee allowing you to try them risk free.
Our criteria for the best VPNs for WeChat
You could spend forever mulling over the differences between rival VPN providers for WeChat. Rather than focusing on a single feature, we recommend finding a service that is a solid all-rounder. With this in mind, we tested providers in the following areas:
- Ease of use: We don’t think VPN software should be difficult to use. We used 10 different metrics to comprehensively assess the overall user-friendliness of each provider.
- Network suitability: We scored providers on the number of countries they supported, as well as their ability to access WeChat and a range of geo-restricted streaming platforms. We also checked whether they could evade detection in China, where WeChat is most popular.
- Security and privacy: To ensure your connection is protected from potentially malicious third parties while using WeChat, we looked for VPNs that performed well against our 16 different metrics.
- Speed: To ensure you get the most out of WeChat, you’ll want a VPN that’s fast enough to support features like live streaming. To find which providers were quickest, we carried out multiple speed tests while connected to their US servers.
- Value for money: The best VPN providers have generous money-back guarantees and a range of subscription terms and offers. In all, we used eight metrics to gauge which providers offered the best overall value for money.
This is just a summary, but you can read more about how we test and rank the VPNs we recommend in the methodology section below. For now, let’s take a closer look at the ones that impressed us.
WANT TO TRY THE TOP VPN RISK FREE?
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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.
Best VPNs for WeChat compared
We’ve compared the most important features of the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for WeChat.
| No value | NordVPN | Surfshark | TotalVPN | Proton VPN | ExpressVPN | IPVanish | CyberGhost | PrivateVPN | Private Internet Access |
| Website | NordVPN.com | Surfshark.com | TotalVPN.com | ProtonVPN.com | ExpressVPN.com | IPVanish.com | Cyberghost.com | PrivateVPN.com | PrivateInternetAccess.com | Ranking for WeChat | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | Avg Speed for WeChat | 199.52 Mbps | 189.28 Mbps | 167.35 Mbps | 162.72 Mbps | 126.79 Mbps | 173.08 Mbps | 133.97 Mbps | 53.2 Mbps | 70.3 Mbps | Total number of servers | 8,900 | 4,500+ | 1,800 | 17,411 | Undisclosed | 3,200+ | 8,000+ | 200+ | 1,000+ | Simultaneous Connections | 10 | Unlimited | 5 | Free: 1, VPN Plus: 10 | 14 | Unlimited | 7 | 10 | Unlimited | Activity logs | No identifying data | No identifying data |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best deal (per month) | $3.39 70% off 2 year plans | $2.29 Up to 87% OFF + 3 months free | $1.59 SAVE 80% on an annual plan | $3.59 SAVE 64% on a 2-year plan | $2.79 SAVE 78% + 4 months free on 2 year plans | $12.99 Best MONTHLY Deal $12.99 | $2.03 SAVE 84% on the 2 year plan + 4 months free! | $2.00 Save 85% on a one year plan + 24-months free | $2.19 SAVE 82% on the 2 yr plan + 2 months free |
Best VPNs for WeChat
At Comparitech, we thoroughly test each VPN before making any recommendations. The following reviews are based on our first-hand experiences and extensive testing.
Here’s our list of the best VPNs to access WeChat from anywhere:
1. NordVPN
unblocks wechatTested Jan 2026
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- FireTV
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 9.4 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use: | 9.6 / 10 |
| Network suitability: | 10 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 9.5 / 10 |
| US speed testing: | 10 / 10 |
| Value for money: | 7.9 / 10 |
Website: www.NordVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
NordVPN is our #1 recommendation for WeChat. It offers unlimited bandwidth and has a network spanning 127+ countries.
It was the fastest VPN in our tests, with an average download speed of 199.52 Mbps, which is faster than the combined average speeds of the other tested providers, and is an excellent choice for high-resolution video calling using WeChat.
NordVPN works perfectly with a wide range of secure messaging apps and even offers obfuscated servers and a dedicated obfuscation protocol specifically designed to beat governmental censorship.
This service has a particularly impressive set of security features. First, there’s an internet kill switch, automatic malware scanning, and AES 256-bit encryption, as well as DNS, WebRTC, and IPv6 leak protection.
NordVPN allows up to 10 simultaneous device connections and has apps available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. If you’d like to secure every device on your network, it can be manually installed on a wide range of network routers. The provider follows a strict no-logs policy and accepts three cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Ripple). Help is available over live chat, 24 hours per day.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want the best possible speeds for uninterrupted WeChat video calls.
- You need reliable obfuscation to access WeChat in highly restrictive places like China.
- You value privacy with support for crypto payments and RAM-only servers.
- You’re looking for a VPN that performs across all major messaging apps.
- You want excellent cross-platform support and easy setup on routers.
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You’re a mobile-first user who wants ad/tracker blocking included by default.
BEST VPN FOR WECHAT:NordVPN is our top choice. Secure your online activity and avoid deep packet inspection while traveling. Comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full NordVPN review.
2. Surfshark
unblocks wechatTested Jan 2026
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 9.1 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use: | 9.1 / 10 |
| Network suitability: | 9.5 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 9.5 / 10 |
| US speed testing: | 9.3 / 10 |
| Value for money: | 8.1 / 10 |
Website: www.Surfshark.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Surfshark is the best budget VPN for WeChat. It has speedy servers in 100+ countries and works with a huge number of platforms, from Netflix to Facebook.
Better still, this VPN allows you to connect all of your devices with a single account and delivers exceptionally high speeds. In our tests, it averaged 189.28 Mbps overall. This makes it more than fast enough for video calling or live streaming with WeChat. It also works with Telegram, Signal, and WhatsApp.
Surfshark protects you against DNS and IPv6 leaks, hides your activities with AES 256-bit encryption, and ensures you never inadvertently browse without protection using a kill switch. Additionally, it boasts a NoBorders mode that can bypass even the most stringent web blocking. Customer support is available around the clock, and staff will be more than happy to help if you have issues browsing in China.
Surfshark has a strict no-logs policy and has verified this with multiple audits. Plus, it accepts Ethereum, Ripple, or Bitcoin for even greater anonymity.
Surfshark users can install macOS, Android, iOS, Windows, and Linux apps. It can be manually configured before use with supported network routers.
Buy this VPN if:
- You need a budget-friendly VPN that supports unlimited connections.
- You want consistently high speeds for video calling and WeChat streaming.
- You prefer a VPN that balances usability and strong security features.
- You value cryptocurrency payment options.
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You require an ultra-minimalist interface without upsell prompts.
TALK PRIVATELY ANYWHERE:Surfshark is an affordable VPN with a ton of privacy features and very fast speeds. Still not convinced? There’s also a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Take a look at our comprehensive Surfshark review.
3. Total VPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 8.8 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use: | 9.4 / 10 |
| Network suitability: | 9.3 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 9.1 / 10 |
| US speed testing: | 7.9 / 10 |
| Value for money: | 8.5 / 10 |
Website: TotalVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Total VPN offers access to 1,800+ servers in more than 90 countries, including China, making it ideal for using WeChat securely. Of course, that’s not the only service it can help you access. We’ve had great results using it alongside platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+, to name but a few.
A maximum of five devices can be secured at the same time, and support is available via a ticket system.
We wanted to see just how fast Total VPN was, so we ran three speed tests on its American servers at different times of day. This provider delivered an average speed of 167.35 Mbps, making it one of the fastest services we saw. Simply put, you’re not likely to experience any problems, even when performing data-intensive tasks like streaming, playing online games, or making video calls. See for yourself:
If you’re looking for a hands-off service that just keeps you safe by default, Total VPN is the one for you. There’s very little setup required since its 256-bit AES encryption, kill switch, and protection against IPv6 and DNS leaks are all enabled by default.
A strict no-logs policy also protects you, but if you want a little extra privacy, you can simply toggle on the Hydra protocol (which can beat some forms of VPN-detection) or choose to only load specific websites if the VPN is turned on.
Total VPN has its own apps for macOS, iOS, Windows, and Android devices.
Buy this VPN if:
- You’re in the market for an affordable, no-logs VPN.
- You want a service that takes care of security for you automatically.
- You value high performance and the ability to access lots of geo-blocked apps.
- You’re only looking to protect a handful of devices.
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You want to install a VPN on your home router.
EASY TO USE:Total VPN takes the stress out of protecting yourself onine. This beginner-friendly service has high speeds, powerful security tools, and a 30-day money-back guarantee if you sign up for a year (there’s also a 14-day guarantee on short-term plans).
Interested? Check out our comprehensive Total VPN review.
4. ProtonVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 8 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use: | 9.6 / 10 |
| Network suitability: | 6.4 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 9.3 / 10 |
| US speed testing: | 7.6 / 10 |
| Value for money: | 7.3 / 10 |
Website: www.ProtonVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ProtonVPN is a no-logs provider with plenty to offer. For starters, it has more than 17,276 servers spread across 126+ countries. It’s also great at avoiding stubborn geographic restrictions, so whether you’re hoping to watch your favorite TV shows abroad or access WeChat in places it’s blocked, you’re in good hands.
Users can secure up to 10 devices at the same time, and there’s 24/7 support over live chat just in case anything doesn’t work as expected.
To find out what kind of speeds ProtonVPN was capable of, we tested its US servers three times using a 250 Mbps connection. Its average speed was 162.72 Mbps, which was an impressive result (roughly 10 times faster than is needed for streaming 4K video without interruption). It was also highly consistent, with just 10 Mbps of difference between its best and worst results. Let’s see those results in more detail:
This is one of the most secure VPNs we’ve seen, having been created by the team behind ProtonMail, an email client used by activists and journalists the world over. ProtonVPN boasts unbreakable encryption, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, automatic ad and tracker-blocking, and a kill switch. There are plenty of advanced features too, like its port forwarding and split tunneling options, or the VPN accelerator tool that boosts your speeds.
ProtonVPN comes with its own apps for iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, and macOS. It can also be manually configured to work with most home routers – just check the website for setup instructions.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want to use one of the most privacy-focused VPNs out there.
- You’re interested in customizing your security setup.
- You’d like a speedy VPN with good unblocking abilities.
- You’re looking for a service with a generous connection limit.
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You’re looking for a VPN that works reliably in China.
ANONYMITY FIRST:ProtonVPN goes above and beyond to protect your privacy. It’s fast too, works great with WeChat, and boasts exceptional streaming capabilities. Best of all, this VPN comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee on its paid plans.
Read our full ProtonVPN review to find out more.
5. ExpressVPN
unblocks wechatTested Jan 2026
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 8 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use: | 9 / 10 |
| Network suitability: | 9.6 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 9.2 / 10 |
| US speed testing: | 5.3 / 10 |
| Value for money: | 7 / 10 |
Website: www.ExpressVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ExpressVPN offers reliable performance and access to servers in 105+ countries, making it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to use messaging apps safely. What’s more, this service excels at accessing geo-restricted content, so you’ll be able to regain access to your usual services while traveling.
Note that this service recently reworked its pricing structure and now permits 10 simultaneous connections on the standard plan.
In our speed tests for this article, ExpressVPN achieved consistently fast download speeds of between 123.21 Mbps and 129.47 Mbps. As a rough guide, this is fast enough for streaming 4K video on five devices simultaneously.
This VPN keeps you safe by blocking ads and malicious websites automatically. It also offers uncrackable encryption, a kill switch, and IPv6 and DNS leak protection. No additional setup is needed to use this service in China (provided you install it before you arrive), and support is available 24/7 over live chat.
Most importantly, ExpressVPN refuses to log any data that could identify you. It’s based in the British Virgin Islands, a location with no mandatory data-retention laws, so there’s no need to worry about governmental interference, either.
ExpressVPN has apps for iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, and macOS. Additionally, it has custom firmware that makes it easier to install on supported network routers.
Buy this VPN if:
- You rely on WeChat and need a proven VPN that offers consistent access.
- You want broad platform support, including apps for routers.
- You value jurisdiction outside the 14-Eyes alliances.
- You want a premium VPN that works in heavily censored countries.
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You’re on a tight budget (ExpressVPN is expensive).
- You want task-specific servers.
FAST CONNECTIONS:ExpressVPN reliably unblocks WeChat and other popular chat apps. It offers robust security, an audited no-logs policy, and knowledgeable support. There’s also a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full ExpressVPN review.
6. IPVanish
unblocks wechatTested Jan 2026
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 7.6 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use: | 8.1 / 10 |
| Network suitability: | 5.8 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 8.7 / 10 |
| US speed testing: | 8.3 / 10 |
| Value for money: | 7.3 / 10 |
Website: www.IPVanish.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
IPVanish is a veteran provider with more than 3,100 servers in over 145 locations. While connected to its US servers, we recorded speeds of between 170.48 Mbps and 175.71 Mbps. These consistently quick speeds make IPVanish suitable for everything from WeChat video calls to multiplayer gaming.
Usefully, IPVanish unblocks a wide variety of geo-restricted services, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney Plus. Best of all, there’s no limit on the number of devices you can connect at the same time.
This VPN puts in a strong showing when it comes to security, too. It offers 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and there’s even the option to block local connections. Users can scramble their OpenVPN traffic, helping prevent detection by services that usually block VPN users. IPVanish follows a strict no-logging policy, so your privacy is in good hands.
IPVanish provides lightweight, easy-to-use apps for Android, Windows, macOS, and iOS. It works with Linux systems and supported network routers via manual installation. Need help? Customer support is available 24/7 over live chat.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want a fast and lightweight VPN that supports unlimited devices at once.
- You want to use OpenVPN scrambling to bypass VPN blocks.
- You’re tech-savvy and value granular settings in a VPN client.
- You need an affordable no-logs VPN with strong privacy fundamentals.
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You need a VPN that reliably works inside China.
- You want to pay anonymously using cryptocurrency.
PRIVACY-FIRST VPN:IPVanish doesn’t keep any logs and comes packed with strong security features. Further, it offers consistently high speeds, unlimited bandwidth, unlimited connections, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
For more info, read our full review of IPVanish.
7. CyberGhost
unblocks wechatTested Jan 2026
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 7.2 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use: | 9.1 / 10 |
| Network suitability: | 5.2 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 8.9 / 10 |
| US speed testing: | 5.8 / 10 |
| Value for money: | 7.2 / 10 |
Website: www.Cyberghost.com
Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS
CyberGhost has a vast network of over 11,500 servers in 100+ countries, including China. This, coupled with its fast speeds – it averaged 133.97 Mbps in our tests for this article – makes it a solid choice for using WeChat, streaming, or just browsing.
This service’s security features include DNS and IPv6 leak protection, a kill switch, and effectively uncrackable 256-bit AES encryption. There’s also a feature that sends your data via a random port (which helps you avoid VPN-detection measures on public Wi-Fi networks).
CyberGhost doesn’t store any data that could identify you. Privacy-conscious users can sign up almost completely anonymously by paying in Bitcoin. Additionally, live chat-based support is available around the clock.
CyberGhost allows up to seven simultaneous device connections and has mobile (Android and iOS) and desktop apps (macOS, Windows, and Linux). To use this VPN with your wireless router, you’ll need to configure it manually.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want a simple, beginner-friendly VPN for using WeChat.
- You want a longer money-back guarantee window (45 days) to trial the service.
- You prefer a VPN with minimal manual setup and clean app interfaces.
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You need a VPN that works in China (CyberGhost struggles).
- You want to use WeChat on Linux without manual VPN configuration.
SECURE AND RELIABLE:CyberGhost is both highly secure and easy to use. It’s fast enough for flawless streaming, torrenting, or chatting, plus it has special servers for securely accessing stubborn platforms like Netflix. This VPN offers a 45-day money-back guarantee.
Interested? Find out more in our in-depth review of CyberGhost.
8. PrivateVPN
unblocks wechatTested Jan 2026
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 6.3 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use: | 8.2 / 10 |
| Network suitability: | 7.2 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 8.6 / 10 |
| US speed testing: | 1 / 10 |
| Value for money: | 6.5 / 10 |
Website: www.PrivateVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
PrivateVPN only has around 200 servers, but it offsets this by covering 63+ countries and providing exceptional streaming capabilities. As well as WeChat, it works with services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney Plus.
The provider’s stealth VPN feature means it can even bypass China’s Great Firewall.
Speed-wise, PrivateVPN was slower than the above VPNs. It averaged 53.2 Mbps in our tests, which is nevertheless still more than fast enough for use with WeChat.
If you need a few extra Mbps, PrivateVPN is one of the few providers that allows users to drop the level of encryption used on their traffic to improve connection speeds.
This service uses 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and protection against IPv6 and DNS leaks to keep your activities hidden at all times. That’s not all: it also boasts a stealth mode capable of hiding the fact that you’re using a VPN at all. Additionally, PrivateVPN has a strict no-logs policy. For even greater privacy, users can choose to pay in Bitcoin. If you run into any problems, you can reach support staff 22 hours per day via live chat or email.
PrivateVPN allows up to 10 simultaneous connections per account and comes with apps for Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows. Users can follow manual setup guides to configure it with Linux systems or routers.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want a privacy-focused VPN that includes a stealth mode.
- You value being able to reduce encryption to boost performance when needed.
- You want to pay anonymously using Bitcoin.
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You require an expansive server network.
- You’re a Linux or router user who wants plug-and-play apps.
WORKS IN CHINA:PrivateVPN has an effective stealth mode, and secure servers in 63+ countries. It’s great for streaming and also pays particular attention to user privacy, with advanced security features and a no-logs policy. Subscriptions include a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Check out the complete PrivateVPN review.
9. Private Internet Access
Unblocks WechatTested Jan 2026
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- FireTV
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 6 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use: | 8.6 / 10 |
| Network suitability: | 4.1 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 9.3 / 10 |
| US speed testing: | 1.6 / 10 |
| Value for money: | 6.5 / 10 |
Website: www.PrivateInternetAccess.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Private Internet Access (PIA) has thousands of RAM-only servers spread across 91+ countries. In several countries, including the US, Canada, and the UK, it also has streaming-optimized servers, making it a breeze to access platforms like Hulu, Crave, and BBC iPlayer.
In our speed tests, PIA averaged 70.3 Mbps. This is fast enough to support all WeChat features. Like PrivateVPN, it allows users to reduce their encryption for better speeds.
Of course, if you’re looking to chat safely, security features are a top priority. PIA includes 256-bit AES encryption, as well as IPv6 and DNS leak protection, a kill switch, and a simple togglable feature that blocks ads and malware automatically.
Crucially, this service doesn’t keep any logs whatsoever. It accepts Bitcoin and a wide range of other cryptocurrencies, giving you more ways to sign up anonymously.
PIA allows you to protect every device you own simultaneously, and offers apps for macOS, iOS, Windows, Android, and Linux. Further, it can be manually installed on supported home routers. Live chat-based support is available around the clock.
Buy this VPN if:
- You need a customizable VPN that supports unlimited connections.
- You want to choose your encryption to balance between speed and security.
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You need a VPN that consistently works inside China.
- You’re looking for a VPN with the fastest download speeds.
PLENTY OF CHOICE:PIA has thousands of speedy servers, solid unblocking ability, and very powerful security features, meaning there really isn’t much it can’t do. What’s more, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read the full PIA review for more info.
How to use WeChat with a VPN
It’s easier than you might think to protect your activities from snoopers with the right VPN. Just follow the simple steps below, and you will be messaging privately on WeChat in no time.
Here’s how to use WeChat with a VPN:
- Sign up for one of the VPNs above (we recommend NordVPN). Simply click on the links provided for discounted subscription rates.
- Next, install the VPN app on any device you use often. Usually, you’ll be permitted around 10 connections at once, but this number varies from one provider to another.
- Log in and connect to your chosen server. WeChat is available nearly everywhere, so the location doesn’t really matter, but you’ll usually find that the closer your chosen server, the higher your speeds.
- Finally, open the WeChat app or web client and log in. You should now be able to chat as normal, regardless of your physical location.
If you are experiencing problems, try a different server, clear your cookies and cache before trying again, or contact your VPN provider for more assistance.
Best VPNs for WeChat FAQs
Can I access WeChat using a free VPN?
We strongly advise against using a free VPN with WeChat. For a start, these services usually only offer a handful of servers, which means that they’re quickly swamped with users, bringing your speeds down to a crawl. Additionally, free VPNs aren’t very versatile: they often struggle with region-locking and tend to fall foul of VPN-detection measures.
There’s also the security aspect to consider. It’s difficult to tell if you’re actually using a free VPN or simply one of the many Trojans looking to take advantage of your privacy concerns. Worse, many free services fail to include basic security features like encryption, meaning they’re often no safer than browsing normally. Some will even inject malware into your system. For these reasons, we recommend sticking with a reputable, no-logs VPN that puts its customers first.
Is WeChat safe to use?
To be clear, there are legitimate privacy issues regarding the use of WeChat, so people’s concerns are not unfounded. Research indicates that the service actively surveils its users’ messages and, in some cases, censors them entirely.
However, as this is one of the most popular messaging apps that is available in both China and the rest of the world, it still has its uses.
For instance, it’s an easy app for communicating with less tech-savvy friends or relatives when they’re traveling in China, whereas more popular platforms like WhatsApp are blocked.
It’s vital that you refrain from sending sensitive, incriminating, or anti-establishment material over WeChat.
Remember: if there’s something you need to say anonymously, a VPN will also allow you to access Signal and Telegram within China.
Where is WeChat banned?
Previously, access to WeChat has been temporarily restricted in the US, Russia, India, and Iran, though none of these bans are still in place.
There are several countries that block all messaging and VoIP apps that aren’t approved by the government, and WeChat will almost certainly be blocked here, along with WhatsApp, FaceTime, Snapchat, and Facebook Messenger.
Countries that restrict these types of apps include the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Pakistan, and Oman.