Unfortunately for many lovers of the platform, TikTok is now banned or restricted in several countries, including India, Nepal, and China. In New Zealand, the Netherlands, Norway, Latvia, and Kyrgyzstan, the app has been banned on all government devices. In China, an alternative version known as Douyin is used instead.
What’s worse, more countries are now considering joining in on this trend with governments citing privacy concerns, security risks, and the spread of harmful content as the key reasons. This includes countries like the US, Australia, and Japan. The good news is, there’s an easy way to get around such internet censorship: connecting to a reputable VPN.
A VPN, short for Virtual Private Network, refers to software that encrypts all of your device’s web traffic and routes it through a remote server before connecting you to the web. It protects your online privacy by hiding your real IP address and assigning you a new one, which also allows you to enjoy unrestricted access to TikTok and other social media platforms from anywhere on the planet.
In a nutshell, a VPN allows you to bypass geo-restrictions and safeguards your online activities against the government, your ISP, or any other snoops looking to spy on your online activity.
Are you traveling abroad to a region where TikTok is banned? In this guide, I’ll show you how you can access TikTok from anywhere and highlight the best VPNs for the task.
In case you’re a little pressed for time, here’s a summarized list of the top VPNs that work best with TikTok:
The best VPNs for TikTok:
- NordVPN: The hands-down #1 recommended VPN for TikTok. Comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee. Delivers unmatched speeds and best-in-class security and privacy features. Intuitive, beginner-friendly apps for most platforms.
- Surfshark: An ideal choice for anyone on the hunt for a reliable provider on a limited budget. Provides top-notch security features, lightning-fast speeds, budget-friendly plans, and no connection limit.
- ExpressVPN: Rapid and dependable servers for accessing TikTok and other popular social media platforms. Clear emphasis on user privacy and security. Follows a legit zero-log policy and employs a proprietary Lightway protocol for even faster speeds.
- CyberGhost VPN: Effortlessly bypasses geo-blocks on popular social media platforms like TikTok. Offers intuitive apps that are simple yet effective. Protects against online tracking on public WiFi and at home. Legit zero logs policy. Robust encryption.
- PrivateVPN: Offers obfuscation and a kill switch. Operates a reliable network of servers across over 63+ countries. Can seamlessly access major social media sites like TikTok. Also allows torrenting.
- IPVanish: Owns and operates an impressive server network, allowing for super-fast speeds. Easily circumvents geo restrictions on TikTok. Equipped with top-tier security tools. Permits an unlimited number of simultaneous device connections.
- Private Internet Access: Features incredible speeds and military-grade encryption. Top-notch security tools. Lightning-fast speeds thanks to tailor-made encryption. Unlimited simultaneous connections and a massive server network.
Below is the criteria I used when assembling this list of the top VPNs for safely accessing TikTok from anywhere:
- Works to access TikTok from almost anywhere in the world
- Intuitive apps for the major operating systems
- Ultrafast download speeds
- Robust security and privacy features
- Helpful customer support, preferably with live chat agents
- The ability to connect multiple devices
- Reasonable pricing plus a money-back guarantee
In the testing methodology section of this guide, I’ll reveal more about how I chose these TikTok VPNs.
The best TikTok VPNs: In-depth analysis
Here’s a more detailed look at the best VPNs for TikTok:
1. NordVPN
NordVPN is my top recommended VPN that works best with TikTok, regardless of where in the world you may be. It has no problem whatsoever bypassing the geo-blocks placed on this platform and is one of the quickest VPNs that I’ve ever tested. Not only does it perform reliably well in China, but it’s a great choice for getting around the restrictions that are in place in other regions.
This is in large part due to Nord’s impressive server network. It runs more than 7,800 servers across 118+ countries. As a result, Nord users enjoy plenty of options when it comes to identifying a suitable server in a country where TikTok has neither been banned nor restricted. To find available servers, you simply browse locations using the scrollable list or map.
Beyond its typical servers, it also provides some servers that are capable of obfuscating traffic, creating a MultiHop connection, or providing one-click access to the Tor network. In addition, NordVPN also comes with a MeshNet tool that enables users to easily configure private networks comprising trusted devices.
During my recent tests, NordVPN delivered outstanding speeds. This provider averaged 223.02 Mbps overall, which makes Nord ideal for just about any online activity you might be interested in. What’s more, it was only around 2.16 Mbps slower than my normal connection speed when not connected to a VPN.
These impressive connection speeds make this VPN equally capable of streaming long-form videos as well. It works like a charm with all the major streaming platforms, including Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, Hotstar, and Disney+. Furthermore, the provider also features a smart DNS service that allows VPN-incompatible devices to stream geo-blocked content.
Notably, this VPN employs two proprietary stealth protocols. The first one is known as NordWhisper, which is designed for users who don’t wish to conceal the fact that they are using a VPN to access TikTok. On the other hand, if you’re merely aiming for the fastest connection speeds possible, NordLynx is probably the better choice. With NordLynx, you’ll also enjoy the added benefit of protecting your online traffic against decryption attacks by quantum computers in the future.
The key security features of this VPN include IPv6 and DNS leak protection, Tor over VPN, obfuscated servers, and double-hop connections for extra privacy. A kill switch is also included to stop any accidental data leakages should the VPN connection drop. The provider also abides by a stringent no-log policy that has been verified by multiple third-party audits.
Apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV, and Linux. It allows you to connect a maximum of 10 devices at a time, features round-the-clock live chat support, and offers a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
Pros:
- Can safely access TikTok from anywhere, including China
- Lightning-fast speeds for HD streaming
- High-grade security and privacy protection
- Easy-to-use apps for all major platforms
- Servers customized for specific tasks
Con:
- The desktop app works fine, but could use an update
BEST VPN FOR TIKTOK:NordVPN is my top pick. Operates super quick servers to easily bypass geo-restrictions. Can comfortably access most major streaming platforms. Connects up to 10 devices at once and is risk-free thanks to its generous 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Surfshark
Surfshark is a reputable VPN that offers top-notch features at a budget-friendly cost. The provider operates an extensive network of well over 3,200 servers that are distributed across 100+ countries around the world. To provide an extra layer of safety, all of its servers are RAM-only. Surfshark users can easily select a suitable server by browsing through the list of countries, plus the provider clearly indicates whether virtual servers are in use.
A feature that distinguishes this VPN from many of its competitors on this list is the fact that it offers static IP addresses. This is incredibly convenient if, for some reason, you require a consistent IP address in between multiple sessions. Other unique security features include its ability to switch your IP address automatically without forcing you to disconnect, plus it also blocks ads, trackers, and malware.
Surfshark also offers the option of MultiHop connections for anyone interested in a greater degree of protection. This feature allows users to select their own unique exit and entry servers. In case you need to access TikTok from a country experiencing heavy internet censorship, such as China, you can take advantage of this VPN’s NoBorders mode. When this VPN detects a restricted network, it automatically enables NoBorders and connects you via special servers optimized for such situations.
Another unique tool that comes with this VPN, and my personal favorite, is its Alternative ID feature. This allows users to create an entirely new identity along with a proxy email address when signing up. This is especially useful for anyone who doesn’t like having to fork over their personal information to enjoy temporary online services.
According to the most recent speed tests that I conducted, Surfshark is a super-fast provider. It delivered an average of 214.38 Mbps and was more than 50 Mbps quicker than the combined average speeds of the other VPNs on this list..
It’s also great at accessing popular geo-restricted streaming platforms such as Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+. The VPN has apps for all the major platforms, including Mac, Windows, Android, iOS, Linux, Fire TV, and Firestick, among others.
Just like Nord, Surfshark also comes with a smart DNS feature for VPN-incompatible devices like gaming consoles. Its subscriptions are competitively priced and do not have any device connection limits.
Pros:
- Easy to set up on a broad variety of routers
- Sufficient speeds for uninterrupted HD streaming or browsing
- No limit on simultaneous device connections
- Robust security features
- Strict no-log policy
Cons:
- A free trial is unavailable on Linux or Windows
- The one-month plan is a bit expensive
QUICK AND BUDGET-FRIENDLY:Surfshark is an affordable, balanced VPN that handles every task with ease. It’s great for torrenting, streaming in HD, and online gaming. It comes with a seven-day free trial period plus a 30-day money-back guarantee.
3. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is a vastly popular VPN service that operates more than 3,200 servers spread across 105+ countries worldwide. All of them are optimized for maximum stability as well as speed, making them ideally suited to accessing TikTok and other geo-restricted platforms. Its robust bypassing capability is in part because it offers obfuscation by default, which enables it to reliably access TikTok even in heavily censored places like China or the UAE.
One of the hallmark features of this service is the minimalistic design of its GUI that allows it to be effectively utilized by both beginners and seasoned VPN users. All of its offerings are laid out openly and can be selected using a rather straightforward check-box system. A notable feature of its user interface is its Advanced Protection tab that permits users to specify the type of threats they’re likely to be in contact with, such as trackers, malicious sites, and others.
Over the years, ExpressVPN has consistently enjoyed positive reviews from its growing user base thanks to its Media Player. This is a free smart DNS service that enables it to stream a wide range of popular geo-restricted platforms such as Hulu, Netflix US, HBO Max, and Amazon Prime Video.
This VPN employs top-tier security features, such as perfect forward secrecy, HMAC authentication, a kill switch, protection against leaks, and 256-bit AES encryption to safeguard all user connections. Since it’s incorporated in the British Virgin Islands, ExpressVPN is not mandated to comply with invasive data retention laws. It also adheres to a strict zero-logs policy, and although it does retain a small amount of metadata, this doesn’t include sufficient personal information to reveal your identity.
This is yet another provider that utilizes its proprietary tunneling protocol known as Lightway. This is a connection protocol that creates a secure tunnel and uses encryption to protect your data. It also ensures rapid speeds and allows users the option of two encryption ciphers: either ChaCha20 or AES. OpenVPN is also available.
To establish exactly how fast ExpressVPN is, I performed multiple speed tests using servers based in the UK. The service averaged 95.04 Mbps over all three tests, which is fast enough for using TikTok without issue.
Setting up this VPN is also a fairly quick process since it has its own router firmware. The provider also offers apps for all the major platforms, including Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Android TV, and Amazon Fire TV. Browser extensions can be found for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. You can connect up to eight devices at the same time.
Pros:
- Servers in 20+ US cities
- Works with Sling TV, Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer
- Speeds are good for HD streaming and fast downloads
- Top-notch encryption, security, and privacy features are standard
- 24/7 live chat support
Cons:
- Slightly more costly compared to competing services
- Streaming servers aren’t labeled
SUPER FAST AND RELIABLE:ExpressVPN is a reputable service that works great with TikTok and several popular social media platforms like Instagram and Snapchat. Robust security and privacy features and a strict zero-log policy. 30-day money-back guarantee.
4. CyberGhost VPN
CyberGhost VPN takes great pride in its ability to circumvent just about every geo-restriction out there, including regional bans on TikTok. This provider boasts a massive server network that comprises more than 11,500 servers, including over 1,300 that are based in the US.
In case you’d prefer a different country, CyberGhost has you covered with its 100+ non-US locations. Admittedly, the lack of obfuscation is a significant downside as it prevents users from accessing TikTok from countries with strict internet censorship, such as China or the UAE.
What’s more, this provider provides specialized streaming servers in addition to its regular servers. With each streaming server, you also get a list of the services they are optimized for. Naturally, this makes it incredibly easy to access all your favorite streaming platforms, whether it’s Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Hulu, or BBC iPlayer. CyberGhost also operates specialized servers dedicated to gaming and torrenting.
With this service, you’ll hardly notice that you’re connected to a VPN when scrolling TikTok. Because it runs ultra-fast servers, CyberGhost was able to average a solid 151.10 Mbps. These lightning-quick speeds, paired with a lack of a data cap, make this an awesome choice for video streaming.
When it comes to keeping your TikTok activities secure, this VPN employs a range of top-notch tools. For starters, the company is headquartered in the Eastern European nation of Romania, which has strong privacy laws and no mandatory data retention, making it better for privacy-focused users. Its NoSpy servers also provide greater bandwidth and a dedicated uplink. It also adheres to a genuine zero-log policy that covers all user activity and IP addresses.
Some of its key security features include perfect forward secrecy along with 256-bit AES encryption to keep the data within the VPN tunnel. Additional security features on its apps include a kill switch, protection against DNS leaks, plus antivirus functionality for Windows users. With just one CyberGhost account, you’ll be able to protect up to seven devices at a time.
The provider offers apps for all the major platforms, including Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, and Amazon Fire TV. It has a free Chrome extension as well. In case you come across any challenges, live chat support is available around the clock.
Pros:
- Runs more than 730 servers in various cities throughout the US, offering users a broad range of options
- Streams HD video seamlessly
- Pocket-friendly choice with beginner-friendly apps
- Reliable and helpful live chat support around the clock
Cons:
- Doesn’t work reliably in China
- Offers very little control over advanced features
STREAMING SPECIALIST:CyberGhost offers specialized servers for streaming. Fast and reliable connections plus a broad variety of servers. Solid privacy, a legit zero logs policy, and DNS leak protection. A wide server network around the globe. 45-day money-back guarantee.
5. PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN is a Sweden-based service and one of the smaller providers on this list. Compared to the more established brands on this list, it runs a modest network of slightly more than 200 servers that are spread across more than 63 nations around the world, including the United States. Despite having fewer servers than its competitors, PrivateVPN more than makes up for its smaller network with outstanding server quality.
From the most recent speed tests that I conducted, it displayed some of the quickest speeds of any VPN I’ve tested, plus it offers unlimited bandwidth. This allows it to perform excellently with TikTok regardless of where you are on the planet. It also works great to access geo-blocked streaming platforms such as Hulu, Prime Video, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, over a dozen Netflix libraries, and several other streaming services.
Privacy-conscious TikTokers will be pleased to learn that this provider adheres to a strict zero-logs policy. Its apps are also equipped with a handy stealth mode feature that allows users to stay connected even in places that experience extensive web censorship, such as China. Some of the robust security tools PrivateVPN employs include a kill switch, DNS leak protection, a SOCKS5 proxy, and OpenVPN.
This provider has apps for several major platforms and allows you to defend a maximum of 10 devices at a time. This makes PrivateVPN an awesome service for sharing with roommates or family members. Its apps are friendly to VPN newbies and are compatible with all the popular platforms, including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS, while Linux can be set up manually.
Live chat customer support is only available for 18 hours a day. On the plus side, major issues are incredibly rare, plus you can get in touch with customer support via email at any time.
Pros:
- Robust privacy and security features
- Apps are great for beginners
- Rapid speeds for HD streaming
- Supports torrenting
Cons
- Significantly smaller network
- Live chat support needs to be available around the clock
RAPID SPEEDS:PrivateVPN is an excellent choice for watching both short and long-form video content. Super-fast servers. Works great with TikTok and other leading social platforms. Allows torrenting and 10 simultaneous device connections. 30-day money-back guarantee.
6. IPVanish
IPVanish stands out from the competition by operating a proprietary server network instead of depending on hired ones from third parties. It boasts a decent network of roughly 2,400+ servers that are spread across 140+ locations around the world. In the US alone, it has around 650+ servers, making it easy to find one that can access video-sharing platforms such as TikTok.
Despite being incorporated in the United States, IPVanish abides by a stringent no-log policy. There’s absolutely zero data retention as the provider places great emphasis on safeguarding user privacy. As an added precaution, the service allows anyone to sign up anonymously as a way of minimizing the likelihood of being linked with any online activity.
This VPN delivers sufficient speed for high-quality streaming and does not throttle your bandwidth. It also offers top-tier security tools such as 256-bit encryption on the OpenVPN protocol as a default standard. Additional features include SHA512 authentication, DHE-RSA 2,048-bit key exchange, and perfect forward secrecy.
IPVanish offers apps for both Windows and macOS. Mobile apps for Android and iOS are available along with the Amazon Fire TV Stick. Alternatively, you could use PrivateVPN with Linux and compatible WiFi routers, but you’ll have to perform a manual setup. It allows you to connect an unlimited number of devices at once.
Pros:
- More than 650 servers based in the US to choose from
- Clocked impressive 4K streaming speeds during testing
- Genuine no-log policy
- Torrenting is enabled
Cons:
- Functions unreliably with Netflix and Hulu
- Forget about using the apps if you are in China
NO CONNECTION LIMIT:IPVanish is an awesome family VPN as it allows unlimited simultaneous connections. Proprietary network with thousands of servers in the USA. Simple to operate and preferred by users with higher privacy standards. 30-day money-back guarantee.
7. Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access runs more than 35,000 servers across 91+ countries worldwide – the largest server network on this list. It’s a great pick for accessing TikTok thanks to its massive network, which includes US-based servers in all 50 States. What’s more, this provider is headquartered in the USA, which makes identifying a server that can safely and reliably access TikTok a fairly straightforward task.
During the most recent speed tests, PIA averaged 68 Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection baseline. This makes it an ideal VPN for streaming high-resolution videos without any buffering or lagging. It also offers unlimited bandwidth to ensure a smooth streaming experience.
As its name implies, Private Internet Access is a privacy-conscious provider that follows a genuine zero-log policy. It also focuses on delivering robust security, thanks to its kill switch, 256-bit AES encryption protocol, plus DNS and IPv6 leak protection. In recent years, the company has added WireGuard support to help its users switch over from older, slower connection protocols.
It places no limit on the number of devices you can connect simultaneously under one subscription. Apps are available for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, and Amazon Fire TV. Should you experience any issues with this VPN, simply contact customer support that’s available day and night via live chat.
Pros:
- Massive server network for easy TikTok access
- Secure as many devices as you want simultaneously
- Stores no logs of data that can be used to identify users
Cons:
- Speeds can be inconsistent now and then
- Cannot bypass geo-blocks in China
ADVANCED CUSTOMIZATION:PIA runs a vast server network spread across 91+ countries and enables encryption-level customization. Also offers unlimited simultaneous connections, unlimited bandwidth, and a legit zero logs policy. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Testing methodology: How I chose the best TikTok VPNs
With so many VPNs to choose from, it can be tough to decide which provider aligns with your unique needs. To make it worse, many VPN companies use aggressive marketing techniques that often leave inexperienced users feeling skeptical about their claims.
Privacy.net strives to help consumers by comparing market-leading services to find the best VPN for each specific use case. Below are some of the key criteria I considered when identifying the best VPNs for TikTok:
- Speed: A reliable TikTok VPN should deliver consistent speeds that are fast enough to stream in high definition without lag or buffering. I evaluated and noted the connection speeds of dozens of VPNs to identify the quickest providers on the market.
- Privacy policy: I carefully examine each VPN’s privacy policy and terms of service to try and find any indication of potential logging of user activity or personally identifiable information. All the providers on my list adhere to stringent no-log policies.
- Security: To cope with a cybersecurity threat environment that’s always changing, your TikTok VPN needs to have top-tier security features. A key part of the testing process includes checking for a broad range of data leaks to ensure your data doesn’t escape the encrypted tunnel. It should also defend against DDoS attacks, phishing attempts, and viruses.
- Bypassing capabilities: While numerous VPNs have at least some servers in the US, not all of them are equally capable of getting around strict bans such as those imposed on TikTok in China. Sadly, some have a hard time when it comes to circumventing geo-blocks. I only recommend services that offer thousands of IP addresses and robust bypassing capabilities.
- Value for money: All the suggested TikTok VPNs on this list offer top-tier performance at reasonable prices. Each of them combines strong bypassing ability, robust security, and rapid speeds. Furthermore, all the VPNs are risk-free thanks to their 30-day money-back guarantees, with the only exception being CyberGhost, which offers a 45-day guarantee!
- Ease of use: A reliable TikTok VPN must have apps that are compatible with all the popular operating systems. I’ve compared dozens of VPN applications and exclusively recommend the most user-friendly services. To get the most out of your TikTok VPN, you’ll need a service with beginner-friendly apps that are intuitive and easy to navigate. I’ve compared dozens of VPN apps and identified the most user-friendly services.
Remember, this is only a condensed version of a meticulous process. To learn more about my methodology for evaluating and ranking VPNs, check out how I test VPNs.
How do I use a VPN with TikTok?
Here’s how to use a VPN with TikTok:
- Start by signing up for one of the VPNs on this list. I strongly recommend NordVPN.
- Install your VPN’s app onto whichever device you normally use to access TikTok. It’s okay if you use several devices since most providers allow multiple connections at the same time.
- Log in and select one of the servers in your home country or a country where the platform is not restricted.
- Try playing a video on TikTok. You should now be able to access the platform from anywhere.
In case you run into any issues, try clearing your browser’s cache and cookies. If this doesn’t work, reach out to your VPN’s customer support team.
TikTok VPNs: FAQs
Is it legal to access TikTok with a VPN from a country where it's banned?
Even in countries where TikTok is banned, it’s likely not illegal for end users to access the platform. Such bans are usually aimed at ISPs and app stores rather than individual users.
Disclaimer: I am not a legal expert, and every country’s laws differ. Nothing I’ve said above should be considered legal advice. Always check your local laws before using TikTok in a banned country.
Is TikTok banned in India?
Unfortunately, TikTok is one of the popular apps banned in India due to its affiliation with China. On the plus side, all of the VPNs recommended on this list will help you get around the ban.