Best VPNs Hong Kong

If you are in Hong Kong, you are likely to consider using a VPN at some point. This is partly because its autonomy is now in a much more precarious position than it has been in recent history. Understandably, this has led to concerns about internet freedoms and the deterioration of privacy.

While VPNs are not required to access services such as Google in Hong Kong (unlike in China), they do give you an added layer of privacy. This is especially relevant when using public WiFi.

VPNs can also give users access to geographically restricted services, such as streaming platforms. This is helpful if you wish to access geo-blocked content in Hong Kong or any other country around the world.

Hong Kong isn’t subject to the same internet rules as mainland China, but that doesn’t mean internet users aren’t at risk of having their connections monitored by the Communist Party. This is especially problematic for democratic activists in Hong Kong who have been arrested in the past for being critical of the Chinese government.

Regardless of the reason for using a VPN, I have reviewed the best VPN providers for Hong Kong in detail below. If you’re in a rush, here’s a quick summary.

Best VPNs for Hong Kong:

  1. NordVPN: My number one choice for Hong Kong. It has over 8,500 servers in more than 127 countries, including 70+ in Hong Kong. It also has strong security features and reliably unblocks geo-restricted services. Risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
  2. Surfshark: The best budget choice for Hong Kong. Strong security features and obfuscated servers. Offers an unlimited number of simultaneous connections.
  3. Total VPN: Great value for money, with servers in a decent number of countries, including Hong Kong and China. Secure and easy to use.
  4. Proton VPN: Boasts the largest global server network on this list, with more than 42 in Hong Kong. Excellent choice for privacy-minded users.
  5. ExpressVPN: One of the best in the business for accessing geo-restricted streaming platforms. Decent speeds and highly reliable.
  6. IPVanish: Another fast VPN option for streaming, ensuring you never have to worry about buffering. Unlimited number of simultaneous connections.
  7. PureVPN: Easy to use and has great unblocking ability. Also very secure and works for users in highly restrictive countries.
  8. PrivateVPN: A privacy-centric option with strong security measures and great unblocking ability. Good choice for VPN beginners.
  9. CyberGhost VPN: Has a very large server network, which includes servers optimized for streaming, gaming, and torrenting.

While looking for the best VPNs for Hong Kong, I considered several factors to ensure that I chose the best providers. Here is the criteria I used:

  • Servers in Hong Kong and the rest of Asia
  • Fast speeds for streaming, gaming, and torrenting
  • Able to easily unblock geo-restricted services
  • Strong security and privacy measures
  • Easy to use for both VPN beginners and experts
  • Great value for money and includes a money-back guarantee

You can find out more information about the criteria I used in the testing methodology section later in this article.

Best VPNs for Hong Kong

So, without further ado, here are the best VPNs for Hong Kong:

1. NordVPN

nordvpn homepage

NordVPN is my number one choice for a Hong Kong VPN. It has over 8,500 servers in more than 127 countries, including 70+ in Hong Kong. The service works with a wide range of geo-blocked services, including streaming platforms like Netflix, Viu, and Disney+. Thanks to its advanced privacy and security measures, it’s a fantastic choice for Hong Kong and the rest of Asia.

Security features include 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, a strict no-log policy, leak protection, and automatic tracker blocking. There is also a pass-through option that allows certain apps to bypass the VPN unencrypted.

NordVPN provides apps for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. It’s also possible to manually install NordVPN on most routers. You can connect up to 10 simultaneous devices, and the customer support team is available 24/7.

Pros:

  • Strong security and privacy features
  • Fast streaming speeds
  • No logs are stored
  • Customer support team available 24/7
  • Apps available for a wide variety of platforms

Cons:

  • Not a great option for those who torrent

BEST VPN FOR HONG KONG:NordVPN is my number one choice for Hong Kong users. It has over 70 servers in Hong Kong, is very secure, and reliably unblocks geo-blocked streaming platforms. Users get a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.

2. Surfshark

surfshark

Surfshark is the best budget choice for Hong Kong. Although it is affordable, it doesn’t skimp on quality and has over 4,500 servers in more than 100 countries, including Hong Kong. It can unblock a wide variety of streaming services, such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu. Plus, it works reliably in China.

There is a range of excellent security features to protect users’ identity and private information, including 256-bit AES encryption, obfuscation, a kill switch, and protection against WebRTC, DNS, and IPv6 leaks. There is also a NoBorders feature that reshapes your traffic, hiding the tell-tale characteristics of VPN data to mask the fact you’re using a VPN.

Surfshark offers its users an unlimited number of simultaneous connections. This is great for users with many devices and large families. Apps are available on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. Live chat support is available 24/7.

Pros:

  • Great unblocking ability
  • Fast connection speeds
  • Strong security measures
  • Supports an unlimited number of simultaneous devices
  • Accepts cryptocurrency payments

Cons:

  • Some servers are a little slow at times

BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark is very competitive in terms of pricing. It is very secure and provides obfuscation, helping mask users’ VPN traffic in tricky locations such as Hong Kong. Unlimited simultaneous device connections. 30-day money-back guarantee.

3. Total VPN

TotalVPN homepage

Total VPN has 1,800+ servers in over 90 countries, including Hong Kong. Despite being a relative newcomer, it’s capable of unblocking a wide range of geo-restricted content, such as streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, and Disney+. At the moment, you can only connect five devices at once.

Strong security measures include 256-bit AES encryption, built-in leak protection, and a kill switch. The WireGuard connection protocol is used by default, but it also has its own connection protocol called HYDRA, which automatically obfuscates traffic. Total VPN is a beginner-friendly option, which is great news for VPN newbies.

Apps include Windows, Android, iOS, and macOS. The customer support team is also available 24/7, and subscriptions come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Pros:

  • Has servers in Hong Kong
  • Beginner-friendly and easy to use
  • 24/7 live-chat support
  • Bundled with an antivirus and a password manager

Cons:

  •  Doesn’t offer port forwarding or MultiHop features

OWN CONNECTION PROTOCOL:Total VPN has is own connection protocol called HYDRA, which obfuscates traffic. Therefore, it’s very secure and is a decent choice for Hong Kong users. 30-day money-back guarantee.

4. Proton VPN

protonvpn homepage

Proton VPN is a very reliable option with the largest server network on this list – 14,800+ servers in 126+ countries. This includes over 42 servers in Hong Kong. This provider can unblock a wide variety of geo-restricted services, such as Netflix, myTV, Viu, Hotstar, and many other household names. Speeds are decent as well.

Security measures include 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, MultiHop connections, Tor over VPN, split tunneling, and port forwarding. With this feature set, Proton VPN is a great option for torrenting and advanced users.

Proton’s apps are available on a wide range of platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. Routers have to be manually configured. It’s worth noting that Proton VPN doesn’t work in China.

Pros:

  • Split tunneling and MultiHop connections
  • Great unblocking ability
  • Excellent for torrenting
  • Massive server network

Cons:

  • No live chat support available
  • Could be more user-friendly

STRONG SECURITY FEATURES:Proton VPN is a great choice: for advanced users, with excellent security and privacy measures. Has a very large server network and great unblocking ability. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

5. ExpressVPN

expressvpn homepage

ExpressVPN is a great option for streaming, as it’s one of the best in the business for accessing geo-blocked platforms like Netflix, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video. It also boasts fast speeds to eliminate buffering and has 3,000+ servers in more than 105 countries. Depending on the plan you choose, you can connect up to 14 devices simultaneously.

Security and privacy features include a strict no-logs policy, leak protection, 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and perfect forward secrecy. ExpressVPN provides a TOR site, accepts cryptocurrency payments, and supports torrenting. If you want to keep your social media activities hidden, it’s also a great choice.

Apps are available on Windows, iOS, Android, macOS, and Linux. It also has its own custom router firmware. 24/7 customer support is available over live chat.

Pros:

  • Always-on obfuscation helps avoid detection
  • Unblocks major streaming platforms
  • Fast connection speeds
  • Audited no-logs policy

Cons:

  • More expensive than some other options
  • Could be more user-friendly

GREAT STREAMING VPN:ExpressVPN is fast and secure and allows you to unblock a wide variety of streaming platforms, including Netflix and BBC iPlayer. Supports torrenting and offers excellent security features. 30-day money-back guarantee.

6. IPVanish

ipvanish homepage

IPVanish is another decent option for those who stream a lot. It is fast and can unblock a wide range of content and services. For this reason, it has been trusted in the Kodi streaming community for several years.

It is also a secure provider with security features that include 256-bit AES encryption and the use of the OpenVPN protocol by default. Other measures include SHA512 authentication and a DHE-RSA 2048-bit key exchange with perfect forward secrecy. There is also a built-in ad-blocker, a kill switch, and a strict no-logs policy.

IPVanish offers an unlimited number of simultaneous connections as well, which is great for those with many devices. It offers apps for Windows, iOS, Android, and macOS. Routers and Linux systems have to be manually configured.

Pros:

  • Unlimited simultaneous devices
  • Fast connection speeds
  • Strong security measures

Cons:

  • Doesn’t work reliably in mainland China
  • Based in the US

UNLIMITED SIMULTANEOUS CONNECTIONS:IPVanish is great for streaming, thanks to fast speeds and good unblocking credentials. Decent security measures, and users get an unlimited number of connections. 30-day money-back guarantee.

7. PureVPN

purevpn homepage

PureVPN has servers in Hong Kong and 65+ other countries. This helps you to gain access to popular Hong Kong streaming platforms such as myTV SUPER, Viu, and TVBAnywhere+. It also reliably unblocks international streaming services. Connection speeds are decent, allowing users to browse and stream without lag/buffering.

Security measures include 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks. There is a zero-logs policy in place, and you can purchase port forwarding for a small extra fee per month.

PureVPN offers apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. You can connect up to 10 devices at once. Live chat support is available, but its agents don’t always respond very quickly.

Pros:

  • Affordably priced
  • Strong security measures
  • Supports torrenting

Cons:

  • Doesn’t support MultiHop connections
  • Doesn’t work well with Netflix

RELIABLE ACCESS TO HONG KONG SERVERS:PureVPN has servers in Hong Kong, so you can access your favorite content from back home when traveling abroad. It is fast, reliable, and offers strong security measures. 31-day money-back guarantee.

8. PrivateVPN

privatevpn homepage

PrivateVPN is a great privacy-centric provider. It has a smaller network of around 200 servers across 63+ countries. Despite this, it has great unblocking capabilities and can provide secure access to platforms such as Netflix, YouTube, and Amazon Prime Video.

Strong security measures include 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, protection against IPv6 and DNS leaks, and a strict no-logs policy. There is also a Stealth VPN feature that provides an obfuscated connection, which is excellent for those who want to browse anonymously in a turbulent environment, such as Hong Kong or even the Chinese mainland.

This service allows 10 simultaneous connections. This provider’s apps are available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, and it can also be manually installed on Linux systems and some routers.

Pros:

  • Customizable apps
  • Great unblocking ability
  • Port forwarding and torrenting support

Cons:

  • Smaller server network
  • The customer support team isn’t reachable 24/7

PRIVACY-FOCUSED VPN:PrivateVPN is a great privacy-centric option with strong security features and excellent unblocking capabilities. Stealth VPN feature that provides an obfuscated connection. 30-day money-back guarantee.

9. CyberGhost VPN

cyberghost homepage

CyberGhost VPN has a very large server network that consists of over 11,500 servers in around 100 countries. It can unblock a wide variety of services, such as Netflix, HBO Max, Paramount+, and Amazon Prime Video. It even has some P2P optimized servers in Hong Kong, allowing users to get the fastest possible download speeds for streaming, gaming, and torrenting.

The provider also has very strong security measures, including 256-bit AES encryption, leak protection, a kill switch, and a no-logs policy. It also comes with an ad-blocker, and the service accepts cryptocurrency.

CyberGhost apps are available for macOS, Linux, Windows, Android, and iOS. Some routers can also be manually configured to work with this service. The customer support team is available 24/,7 and seven simultaneous connections are supported.

Pros:

  • Clients are easy to use
  • 24/7 live chat support
  • Huge server network

Cons:

  • Limited amount of simultaneous connections
  • Lack of obfuscation

HUGE SERVER NETWORK:CyberGhost is easy to use and offers servers optimized for a wide variety of services, such as streaming and torrenting. No-logs policy and accepts crypto payments. Comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee.

Testing methodology: How I found the best VPNs for Hong Kong

While looking for the best VPNs for Hong Kong, I reviewed many VPNs and considered numerous factors to ensure I selected the best in the business. Here are the factors I considered:

  • Servers in Hong Kong: Ideally, the VPN should have servers in Hong Kong and decent coverage around the rest of Asia. This allows you to obtain a Hong Kong IP address.
  • Fast speeds: Fast connection speeds are important for ensuring users can stream and browse the web without lag or buffering. Lower-quality VPNs suffer from lots of lag and buffering, which can be frustrating for users.
  • Unblocking capabilities: While Hong Kong residents typically have access to more services than those in mainland China, possible restrictions are something to be wary of. Having a VPN that can successfully bypass these restrictions is very desirable, granting you access to streaming platforms, social media sites, and online banking services.
  • Security and privacy measures: VPNs protect users from the prying eyes of governments and internet service providers (ISPs), ensuring users’ information is kept safe. This is an important consideration, given the precarious nature of Hong Kong and its relationship with the Communist Party.
  • Easy to use: Setting up and using the VPN should be simple for people without advanced skills. There is no point subscribing to a VPN that is overly complex. Live chat support is an added bonus for when things go wrong.
  • Value for money: All of the VPNs in this list provide plenty of bang for your buck. They also offer generous money-back guarantees and discounted subscription rates.

For more information about the criteria I used, check out my extensive VPN testing process guide.

How to use a VPN in Hong Kong

Ready to get started? Follow these steps if you’re looking to connect to a VPN while in Hong Kong. The process is the same if you’re traveling abroad and wish to access services back home in Hong Kong.

How to use a Hong Kong VPN:

  1. Sign up for a top-tier VPN. I recommend using NordVPN, as it has many servers in Hong Kong, fast connection speeds, strong security measures, and gives users a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
  2. Download the VPN app onto the device(s) you will use it on. Some of the VPNs in this list offer unlimited simultaneous connections.
  3. Clear your cache and cookies in all of your web browsers. This will remove all old location identifiers.
  4. Open your VPN app. Connect to a server in the country you want an IP address from.
  5. You should now have a different IP address. You can verify this with an IP address checker.
  6. Carry on with your usual internet and browsing activity. You should notice that when you go to websites, they will assume that you are connected from the country your new IP address corresponds to.

If you run into any issues, contact your VPN’s customer support team.

Best VPNs for Hong Kong FAQs

Should I use a free VPN in Hong Kong?

I don’t recommend using a free VPN in Hong Kong. Free VPNs don’t have the same infrastructure in place as paid options. This can mean fewer servers, leading to slow speeds and lag/buffering.

In addition, free VPNs often lack the same security measures as paid options. This manifests in a lack of features such as encryption and obfuscation. This is ultimately not optimal for a VPN used in Hong Kong or China. Some free VPNs have even been known to sell user data for a profit.

For these reasons, I don’t recommend using a free VPN. It’s better to use a more established, paid option, such as the ones reviewed above, for your VPN needs.

Can I download VPN software in Hong Kong?

VPNs aren’t actually banned in Hong Kong or China. However, most providers have been removed from app stores in these jurisdictions. In addition, their websites are often blocked.

For these reasons, it’s better to plan ahead and install your VPN app before actually arriving in Hong Kong. It is also advisable to keep your manual setup instructions handy in case you aren’t able to connect normally.

Are VPNs illegal in Hong Kong?

At the moment, VPNs are legal in Hong Kong. However, note that even though this is the case, using a VPN to commit crimes gives you no protection; you could still end up on the wrong side of the law if you break the law while using it.

Disclaimer: Although I have researched this topic extensively, this is not legal advice. Consult the laws in your jurisdiction or seek professional advice before using a VPN in Hong Kong.

Will the Great Firewall of China extend to Hong Kong in the future?

It’s hard to say if this will happen. Crackdowns on online freedoms have begun, with the police gaining sweeping new powers to identify users posting content that the government doesn’t like. This situation needs to be monitored.

How can I watch US TV in Hong Kong?

To watch US TV in Hong Kong, simply connect to a US VPN server. This will give you access to content such as Hulu, HBO, Paramount+, and the US Netflix library.