access Reddit when blocked

If Reddit is banned at your workplace, school, college, or in your country, a VPN (Virtual Private Network) can help beat the block. We have taken a close look at the best VPNs for Reddit, considering connection speed, privacy, security, and unblocking ability. 

Note: This article covers how to access Reddit where it is blocked. We have a separate article on the best Reddit VPNs based on those receiving the most positive comments from Redditors.

The safest and most secure way to overcome a Reddit ban in your country or workplace is via a VPN. It’s reliable software that’s designed to mask your identity. This is done by encrypting web traffic flowing to and from your device and routing it via a server outside your current location. VPNs make it very difficult to uncover your identity, location, or the websites you visit. 

We get into some detail on each of the VPNs we have chosen below, but in case you’re short on time, here’s a quick summary.

Best VPNs to unblock Reddit:

  1. NordVPN Our top VPN for unblocking Reddit. Has thousands of fast and secure servers dotted around the globe that can unblock just about anything. 30-day money-back guarantee.
  2. Surfshark The best budget VPN for unblocking Reddit. User-friendly apps and unlimited simultaneous connections.
  3. ExpressVPN Has servers in over 90 countries, so great for getting around Reddit bans. Fast and secure apps. Works in China.
  4. CyberGhost Great value service with easy-to-use apps that are great for beginners. Server speeds are impressive.
  5. IPVanish Apps are remote-friendly and great for using with Kodi devices. Great speeds and security.
  6. PrivateVPN Built-in kill switch, easy-to-use apps, and a simultaneous 10-device allowance.
  7. VyprVPN Fast, secure, and can unblock most sites and services, including Reddit. Is a little pricey.

WANT TO TRY THE TOP VPN RISK FREE?

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 Reddit with no restrictions for a month—great if you want to browse the platform while on vacation.

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.

How do I access Reddit?

Don’t worry if you’ve never used a VPN before, it’s easy. Simply follow our step-by-step guide to get started. 

Here’s how to unblock Reddit with a VPN:

  1. Read through our list of recommended VPNs and decide on the service and plan that works for you. We recommend NordVPN for Reddit.
  2. Register your personal details and add a payment method
  3. Download the VPN apps for your PC/Macbook or smartphone
  4. Delete your browser cache and cookies so that old location identifiers are removed
  5. Restart the device
  6. Login to the VPN app and select a server in Europe or North America – no countries in these regions have restrictions in accessing Reddit
  7. Wait for a connection to be established. Once that’s done, it’ll usually be indicated by a green icon in the taskbar or on the top of your smartphone screen
  8. Open your preferred web browser (Chrome, Internet Explorer, Firefox, Opera, UC Web) and browse Reddit like you normally would

The best VPNs for Reddit: at a glance

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 Reddit.

No valueNordVPNSurfsharkExpressVPNCyberGhostIPVanishPrivateVPNVyprVPN
WebsiteNordVPN.comSurfshark.comExpressVPN.comCyberghost.comIPVanish.comPrivateVPN.comVyprVPN.com
Ranking for Reddit:1234567
Streaming ServicesNetflix
Amazon Prime
Hulu
BBC iPlayer
Disney+
Netflix
Amazon Prime
Hulu
BBC iPlayer
Disney+
Netflix
Amazon Prime
Hulu
BBC iPlayer
Disney+
Netflix
Amazon Prime
Hulu
BBC iPlayer
Netflix
Amazon Prime
Netflix
Amazon Prime
Netflix
Hulu
Avg Speed (Mbps)100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps39 Mbps100+ Mbps
Devices SupportedWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVsWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Amazon Fire TVWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVs, RoutersWindows, MacOS, Linux (command line), iOS, Android, Smart TVs RoutersWindows, MacOS, iOS, AndroidWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, RoutersWindows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, Android, QNAP, Anonabox, Blackphone, Routers
Activity logsNoneNoneNo identifying dataNo identifying dataNo logs stored
Popular Sites Unblocked95%88%86%85%70%85%90%
Best deal (per month)$3.29
SAVE up to 63% + 3 months FREE
$2.30
Get 2 Months FREE with a 2-year plan
$6.67
SAVE: 49% on the annual plan
$2.11
SAVE 84% on the 2 year plan + 3 months FREE
$3.33
SAVE 72% on the 2 year plan
$2.00
SAVE 85% on the three year plan
$5
SAVE 50% on the annual plan

The best VPNs for Unblocking Reddit

Our ranking of the best VPNs for Reddit is ascertained on the following factors:

  • Reliable speeds and encryption standards
  • Large server network in the US and Europe
  • Unlocks geo-restricted content
  • Apps for Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS
  • Number of simultaneous connections

You can read more about how we test and rank the VPNs we recommend in our methodology section below. For now, let’s take a look at the ones that made the cut. 

Here’s our list of the best VPNs for Reddit:

1. NordVPN

NordVPN Jun 2023 Unblocks RedditTested Jun 2023

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • Background FireTV

Website:  www.NordVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

NordVPN is our top choice VPN to unblock Reddit because of its worldwide coverage and best-in-class security features. It caters to both beginners and power users because it offers several customizable options and servers for different purposes. It’s also one of just a handful of VPNs that work in China.

It’s another VPN service that doesn’t store any data. This means there’s no information related to browsing habits, timestamps, or choice of servers. The policy has helped the company evade official requests to obtain customer data. In the past, nosy government agencies have ordered Nord to supply it with customer information, but there simply isn’t anything stored on its servers. In one case, physical servers were also confiscated, but nothing incriminating was found.

The company operates over 5,500 servers in 60 countries – with options to select specific ones based on things like stringent privacy, video streaming, anonymity, or dedicated IP. It also works with several online streaming services, such as Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer, without any problems. One account allows for a maximum of six simultaneous connections.

Encryption standards are top-tier. NordVPN uses the 256-bit AES protocol encryption standard by default, coupled with 2,048-bit SSL keys. DNS leak protection is also enabled.

There is support for Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, and Android.

Pros:

  • Operates thousands of use-specific servers in 60 countries
  • Top-tier encryption standards with DNS leak protection
  • Securely access a wide range of sites
  • Apps available for most major platforms
  • Works in China
  • 30-day money-back guarantee

Cons:

  • Can only choose to connect to a location, not a server

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

BEST REDDIT VPN:NordVPN is our #1 choice. A great all-rounder that works well with Reddit. Strong security features and allows up to 6 devices to be used simultaneously from one account. Includes 30-day money-back guarantee.

Here’s our full review of NordVPN.

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2. Surfshark

Surfshark Unblocks RedditTested Jun 2023

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.Surfshark.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

Surfshark is our top budget provider but don’t be fooled; it boasts extremely high speeds, exceptional unblocking abilities, and unlimited bandwidth. What’s more, this VPN can protect every device you own simultaneously.

It’s very strong where security is concerned too! 256-bit AES encryption, private DNS, and secure VPN protocols are all included as standard. This means that your browsing activity, IP address, and location remain anonymous throughout. This is further enforced by the strict no-logs policy. 

Accessing Reddit won’t be an issue, as Surfshark has thousands of servers across over 90 countries. These include the USA and the UK, where there are absolutely no restrictions on Reddit. There is a user-friendly app available on Windows, macOS, Linux, IOS, and Android, and the one-click connection will have you protected in just a couple of seconds.

Pros:

  • Unblocks Reddit with ease
  • Affordable annual plans
  • Unlimited simultaneous connections
  • High levels of security and privacy
  • Easy to use and perfect for beginners 

Cons:

  • Some features require Surfshark One, which costs extra

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

BEST BUDGET VPN FOR REDDIT:Surfshark is great value. It has fantastic security and privacy features at an affordable price. One subscription allows unlimited device connections. Try it risk-free with the 30-day money-back guarantee.

Here’s our full review of Surfshark.

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3. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN Unblocks RedditTested Jun 2023

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.ExpressVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

ExpressVPN is a popular VPN because it offers a reliable service that’s fast, sturdy, and doesn’t compromise on encryption standards either.

There are over 3,000 servers to choose from all over the world, including a robust selection in Europe and North America. That means accessing Reddit shouldn’t be a concern whatsoever. People trying to log on to Reddit understand they’re circumventing restrictions placed by their workplace, school, or country, so privacy and anonymity have to rank as critical factors.

ExpressVPN does well on this front as it has a stated policy of not storing any user logs. Additionally, it has its own protocol, named Lightway, which offers very high speeds plus effectively uncrackable encryption. There’s also a ‘network lock’. This feature will freeze all web traffic if the connection drops, keeping it secure.

There are apps for Android and iOS, as well as desktop clients for Windows, macOS, and Linux. One subscription allows for five simultaneous devices.

Pros:

  • Plenty of servers in Europe and North America – ideal for accessing Reddit
  • Optimized for high-speed connections
  • Best-in-class security and privacy
  • An easy-to-use app that installs with a wizard
  • Works with a variety of platforms, including Netflix

Cons:

  • Slightly pricier than other services
  • Lack of advanced configuration options

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

FAST VPN FOR REDDIT:ExpressVPN a reliable choice. Great for securely accessing Reddit. Top privacy and security features and they keep no logs. Try it risk-free with the 30-day money-back guarantee.

Here’s our in-depth review of ExpressVPN.

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4. CyberGhost

CyberGhost Unblocks RedditTested Jun 2023

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.Cyberghost.com

Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS

CyberGhost is a great choice for beginner users that don’t want an expensive VPN. There aren’t a ton of customizable options, but the service delivers where it matters the most. The company headquarters are in Romania, which means it isn’t subjected to any mandatory data retention laws. It also has a stated policy of not logging any user data. 

Server locations are adequate and increasing day by day. Currently, there are over 9,000 VPN servers across 90+ countries. The service works with Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and more.

CyberGhost’s encryption standards are considered to be top-tier. Specifically, the service uses 256-bit AES encryption on the OpenVPN protocol by default, along with 2,048-bit RSA keys and MD5 HMAC authentication. An internet kill switch is also included, as is WireGuard support.

Apps are available for both Android and iOS, as well as desktop support for Windows, Linux, and macOS. A maximum of seven devices can connect simultaneously.

Pros:

  • Vast server network of 9,000+
  • Beginner-friendly apps
  • Some of the fastest servers we’ve tested
  • Kill switch on all apps and keeps no logs
  • Plenty of servers in Europe and North America

Cons:

  • Can struggle with unblocking some streaming sites
  • Doesn’t work in China

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

BEGINNERS' CHOICE:CyberGhost is easy to use. Fast and reliable connections with a good range of servers. Great privacy with zero logs and DNS leak protection. Can’t match rivals with some popular streaming platforms. There is a 45-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of CyberGhost.

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5. IPVanish

IPVanish Unblocks RedditTested Jun 2023

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.IPVanish.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

IPVanish checks all the boxes when it comes to a speedy VPN that won’t compromise your privacy. It’s known as a completely no-logs service – meaning the company retains no data except when an account is registered for the first time.

IPVanish uses 256-bit encryption on the WireGuard protocol by default. It also includes protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks, a kill switch, and the ability to block other devices on the network from sending data to you.

There is a varied list of servers – a total of over 1,900 spread across 75+ locations, including a large choice in Europe and North America (where Reddit is freely accessible). IPVanish is also an excellent choice if you’re looking to access BBC iPlayer.

There are apps for both iOS and Android, as well as desktop support for Windows and macOS. Unlike most of its rivals, IPVanish lets you connect as many devices as you like simultaneously.

IPVanish is popular with Kodi users because it allows them to download the Android APK directly to their device. The interface is also remote control friendly for Kodi devices that lack a keyboard and mouse.

Pros:

  • A no-logs policy that won’t compromise your privacy
  • Large choice of servers from the EU and North America
  • Impressive speeds
  • Use unlimited devices simultaneously

Cons:

  • Doesn’t allow for anonymous registration
  • Doesn’t work in China

Our score:

4 out of 5

FAST AND RELIABLE:IPVanish has a large server network. An uncongested network achieves good speeds. Strong security and privacy features. Could do with having live customer support. A 30-day money-back guarantee is included.

Read our full review of IPVanish.

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6. PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN Unblocks RedditTested Jun 2023

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.PrivateVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

PrivateVPN is an excellent choice for accessing Reddit when it’s blocked in places like China, schools, or workplaces. This VPN boasts a network of more than 200 servers in 63 countries, ensuring reliable connections and the ability to easily bypass geo-restrictions and network limitations.

With a PrivateVPN subscription, you can secure up to 10 devices simultaneously, providing comprehensive protection for all your gadgets. Furthermore, if you encounter any issues, the friendly customer support team is available via email and live chat to assist you in resolving them quickly.

When it comes to privacy, PrivateVPN adopts a strict no-logs policy, ensuring that your online activities remain confidential. In addition, your data is protected by military-grade 256-bit AES encryption, while IPv6 and DNS leak protection work together to keep your browsing information secure. A built-in kill switch is also included, automatically disconnecting your internet traffic if the VPN connection drops, preventing your identity from being exposed.

PrivateVPN offers easy-to-use apps for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices, making it a breeze to set up and use the VPN on your preferred platforms. Manual configuration is available for those who wish to extend VPN coverage to their routers.

Pros:

  • Zero-logs provider
  • Gaining a reputation for their growing list of sites, they unblock
  • Our tests revealed impressive speeds

Cons:

  • Works with Linux but requires manual configuration
  • Doesn’t have 24/7 live chat

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

WIREGUARD READY:PrivateVPN is big on security, has a solid privacy policy, and includes live chat support. A 30-day money-back guarantee is included.

Read our full PrivateVPN review.

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7. VyprVPN

VyprVPN Unblocks RedditTested Jun 2023

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.VyprVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

VyprVPN is a reliable service that’s been around since 2009. There are over 700 servers across the world, including hundreds in Europe and North America. This provider is known for its steady speeds and strict no-logs policy, as well as its ability to beat repressive digital censorship. VyprVPN can, of course, also help you securely access US Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer.

Encryption standards are excellent – it uses the OpenVPN protocol, 256-bit AES encryption, 2,048-bit RSA keys without perfect forward secrecy, and SHA256 authentication. An internet kill switch is included with all packages. Users can also avail the Chameleon protocol, which scrambles OpenVPN metadata so deep packet inspection cannot recognize it. This further obfuscates your connection, keeping it hidden from nosy ISPs.

Apps are available for both Android and iOS, as well as desktop support for Linux, Windows, and macOS. 

Pros:

  • Owns and manages the entire network of servers
  • High-grade encryption by default
  • Operates hundreds of servers across the EU and the US

Cons:

  • Could have more options for advanced configuration
  • Not the cheapest provider on this list

Our score:

4 out of 5

EASY TO USE APP:VyprVPN is user friendly. Works well with Reddit and most popular blocked services. Fast and secure but a bit pricey. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of VyprVPN.

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Methodology: How we find the best Reddit VPNs

There are dozens of VPNs on the market, and they are not all created equally. Some lack important privacy and security features. Others have outdated apps or encryption levels that make the VPN unsuitable for bypassing websites blocks in countries where Reddit is restricted.

To help consumers pick VPNs that offer high levels of reliability, fast speeds, and outstanding security, we use a scientific VPN testing methodology. For added transparency, we have included some of the important features we looked for when recommending Reddit VPNs below:

  • Unblocking ability: Not every VPN has the same level of unblocking ability. We run tests to make sure that each recommended VPN works seamlessly with Reddit, wherever you are in the world.
  • Safety and security: Your privacy is of the utmost importance, and your VPN should be packed with security features to protect your data. We look for things like strong encryption, a no-logs policy, and a network kill switch.
  • Devices: You probably want to be able to access Reddit on all of your devices, at home, or on the go. We make sure that a VPN works wherever you need it, including on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS.
  • Value for money: A VPN should be reasonably priced, and users should get plenty for their money. We look at subscription costs and what’s included to decide whether or not a VPN is good value.
  • Strong security features: We only recommend VPNs that have advanced apps for all platforms with strong AES encryption, a kill-switch, DSN leak protection, obfuscation, malware filtering, and other advanced features that make the VPN more versatile.

VPNs you may want to avoid

One of the important factors when choosing a VPN – whether free or paid – is an implicit understanding that your privacy and anonymity are protected at all costs. All the VPNs mentioned in our recommended list have stuck to these principles, but there are a few others that aren’t as trustworthy. We believe you should stay away from them.

Here are some examples:

1. HolaVPN

Israel-based Hola once boasted a sizable user base of almost 50 million but it wasn’t able to stick to best practices when it comes to user data. Shockingly, it once leveraged its users by turning them into a massive botnet. In layman’s terms, this meant that a part of each user’s bandwidth was scuppered for attacks on other websites and distributing copyrighted content. Although this happened some time ago, it’s still recommended that you avoid HolaVPN due to its past history with user data.

2. PureVPN

Despite advertising a strict no-logs policy, it’s not entirely true. PureVPN provided browsing activity logs for one of its users to assist with an FBI investigation. Although we do not condone illegal activity, we cannot recommend a VPN that goes back on its promises. Although this happened many years ago, it’s a huge red flag and not something that should be easily forgotten.


Reddit VPNs: FAQs

Will free Reddit VPNs for do the job?

It’s tempting to opt for a free VPN service for Reddit because they’re heavily advertised on the internet and don’t ordinarily require a credit card to sign up. But there’s definitely no such thing as a free lunch.

Many supposedly ‘free’ services have been caught tracking users’ data and selling it to invasive third-party advertisers. That’s not a scenario you would like to be involved in.

Even if free VPNs don’t steal your data, they won’t offer the same kind of user experience that paid options will. There will be a fairly limited selection of servers (usually only one or two), download caps, and bandwidth throttling. Encryption standards will be weak, so your data could be at risk.

Our recommendation is to stay safe on the internet and avoid such services. A few dollars each month will ensure you avoid stressful situations in the future.

Which countries block Reddit?

Here’s a list of countries that have been known to block access to Reddit, known as the ‘front page of the internet’. In Russia and Indonesia, bans have been temporary but other countries have stymied access completely.

  • North Korea
  • Russia
  • Indonesia

Many local organizations such as educational institutions and workplaces also block Reddit on their servers. In these cases, the ban isn’t due to a government directive but more to ensure productivity at the workplace and curtail excessive use of bandwidth. That’s because the site can be used to discover free sport live streams and torrent files.

What else can I do with a VPN?

This article is centered around specifically unblocking Reddit, but VPNs offer a wealth of other options too.

By logging into a VPN, you’re now masking your identity to all sites, not just Reddit. So, for example, if you are connected to a server in the US then every website you visit will assume you’re physically located there. This means services like Vudu, SlingTV, and ESPN will also open their doors to you, and is a great way for travelers to access their usual services abroad.

Why is Reddit blocked in schools?

The main reason for Reddit being blocked in school is the distraction it can cause. It’s easy to get sucked into a thread, and schools fear students spending more time browsing Reddit than doing schoolwork.

Distraction aside, Reddit also has a lot of NSFW (Not Suitable for Work) content. This content is often not suitable for those under the age of 18 and is also likely to break school browsing policies.

Will these VPNs let me access Reddit on work or college WiFi?

Yes, each of the VPNs on this list will provide you access to Reddit, even when on your work or college WiFi network. Simply hit connect and your identity and browsing activity becomes completely anonymous.

VPNs are packed with advanced security features that can protect you on public or open WiFi. This means that you don’t have to worry about data leaks.

Why is Reddit banned in Indonesia?

Reddit is banned in Indonesia because of pornographic content. Many subreddits include pornographic imagery, which is illegal in Indonesia. Reddit refused to place any content filters onsite for Indonesian visitors, and so the Government opted to ban the site entirely.

Can I get around a Reddit ban using a VPN?

Reddit bans are quite complicated as you can be banned from a specific subreddit or from the site as a whole. A VPN won't help you in the first instance since your username is flagged -- you will, however, be able to read posts on the sub simply by logging out.

If you're banned from the entirety of Reddit, you'll have to create a new account. However, because your IP address has been blacklisted, as well as your username, you'll also need to change that. The easiest way is by using a VPN to change your IP address, though you can also try rebooting your device and router a few times to see if you're assigned a different address automatically.