The Best VPN for Hong Kong in 2024: Tested & Compared

Hong Kong is one of the Special Administrative Regions of China, which isn’t heavily censored. Unlike mainland China, the Great Firewall doesn’t extend to Hong Kong; thus, you can access most online content easily.

Unfortunately, since Hong Kong introduced the National Security Law (NSL) in 2020, unfettered internet freedom and privacy have faced challenges. Nowadays, you have to be careful when dealing with sensitive matters online. To bypass repressive reforms and maintain your online privacy, you need the best VPN for Hong Kong.

A Quick Overview of the Best VPNs for Hong Kong

In a hurry? Here is a snippet of the best VPN services for Hong Kong:

1. ExpressVPN: This is our top-pick VPN for Hong Kong. ExpressVPN provides a reliable service with strong security to protect all your online activities in Hong Kong.
2. Private Internet Access (PIA): This VPN boasts a court-proven no-log policy despite being based in the US. Overall, it’s excellent for protecting your privacy.
3. Surfshark: This is a fully-fledged VPN service with security and privacy-enhancing features. It also offers unmatched unblocking capabilities.
4. AtlasVPN: A straightforward VPN suited for speed-intensive online tasks. If you have a large household, this service offers unlimited simultaneous connections.
5. CyberGhost: Sports an extensive server network suitable for unblocking worldwide content. It is also the only VPN with a 45-day Money-Back Guarantee.
6. NordVPN: This is an impressive VPN for Hong Kong that offers a vast server network, excellent security, and features to bolster your online privacy.
7. PureVPN: A decent VPN for Hong Kong with user-friendly native VPN apps, excellent performance, robust security, and a strict no-log policy.
8. PrivadoVPN: A privacy-oriented VPN service under strong Swiss privacy laws. It is suitable for various online tasks, especially private browsing.
9. IPVanish: A reliable US-based VPN service suitable for Hong Kong. It provides unlimited simultaneous connections, excellent security, and fast speeds.
10. Planet Free VPN: A freemium VPN service with robust security and privacy measures. The free service provides a seamless premium VPN feel.

The Best Hong Kong VPN Services

Our best VPN picks for Hong Kong will ensure you bypass censorship, unblock restricted websites and services, stream your favorite content, and avoid price discrimination while protecting your online security and digital privacy. The VPNs have been thoroughly tested to meet all the requirements.

Our ranking methodology ensures you get the best VPNs with strong encryptions, optimized servers, strict no-logs policy, incredible performance, and the best value for your money.

Below is a comprehensive review of the best VPN services for Hong Kong.

1. ExpressVPN – Number One Choice for Hong Kong

TrustedServer technology. Suitable for all online tasks. Up to 8 simultaneous connections.

9.9 5/5 Stars

Free Download

ExpressVPN Key Features

• Blazing connection speeds.
• Impeccable security and privacy.
• No activity or connection logs.
• Excellent unblocking capabilities.
• Easy-to-use VPN apps.

ExpressVPN Overview and Why We Recommend It for Hong Kong

ExpressVPN is a well-known VPN provider that is highly regarded in the industry. It is our top pick VPN service for Hong Kong users. This VPN service ensures the privacy of your online activities and allows you to bypass geo-restrictions easily.

Servers and Coverage (Score: 5 out of 5)

Express VPN provides a global network of servers in around 105 countries and has a server location in Hong Kong. These servers allow you to enjoy free internet by unblocking websites, bypassing censors, and browsing privately. You can also stream content from online platforms such as Netflix.

Performance and Connection Speed (Score: 5 out of 5)

ExpressVPN server network uses an optimized 10-Gbps network to ensure a faster and more reliable VPN experience. The network delivers excellent performance, and you can stream the highest possible quality content. This VPN also handles online gaming without lagging issues.

Privacy and Security (Score: 5 out of 5)

ExpressVPN uses strong encryption to protect your online activities, and its servers wipe data on every reboot. This VPN service does not collect or store your online activity or connection logs. Overall, this combination ensures your digital identity is hidden from prying eyes.

Usability and Apps (Score: 5 out of 5)

This VPN service is compatible with most devices and platforms, including routers. Its VPN apps are easy to use and have a user-friendly interface. With a single subscription, you can simultaneously protect up to 8 devices using this VPN service.

2. Private Internet Access (PIA) VPN – Best Privacy-friendly Hong Kong VPN

Best for US expatriates. Fast connection speeds. Supports 10 simultaneous connections.

9.9 5/5 Stars

Free Download

PIA VPN Key Features

• Robust security and privacy.
• Open-source architecture.
• Proven no-logs policy.
• RAM-based server network.
• P2P friendly.

PIA VPN Overview and Why We Recommend It for Hong Kong

Private Internet Access (PIA) VPN is your go-to VPN to reclaim your internet freedom in Hong Kong. This VPN service takes pride in its no-log policy; thus, you can confidently use it to protect your online activities in Hong Kong.

Servers and Coverage (Score: 5 out of 5)

PIA VPN has an extensive server network that spans over 91 countries. This VPN service is an ideal option for US expatriates in Hong Kong. Many of its servers are concentrated in the Americas compared to the rest of the world.

Performance and Connection Speed (Score: 5 out of 5)

This VPN service uses next-gen servers with a 10Gbps network that delivers unlimited bandwidth and fast speeds. This ensures a reliable performance suitable for lag-free gaming, seamless streaming, and other data-intensive tasks.

Privacy and Security (Score: 5 out of 5)

Besides a court-proven no-log policy, PIA VPN uses the highest level of security to keep your online activities safe. You can also adjust the encryption according to your online task. Additionally, this VPN has a built-in adblocker, advanced kill switch and relies on open-source transparency.

Usability and Apps (Score: 4.9 out of 5)

PIA VPN is compatible with all major platforms. The VPN apps have a straightforward user interface, and the service suits experts and novice users. A single PIA VPN subscription allows you to protect unlimited devices simultaneously.

3. Surfshark VPN – Fully-fledged VPN Service for Hong Konk

Many privacy and security-enhancing features. Great server-switching functionality. Unlimited connections for large households.

9.8 5/5 Stars

Free Download

Surfshark VPN Key Features

• Stellar privacy and security.
• Excellent Camouflage and multi-hop features.
• Unmatched unblocking capabilities.
• Strict no-logs policy.
• 100% RAM-only VPN servers.

Surfshark Overview and Why We Recommend It for Hong Kong

Surfshark is the perfect VPN for protecting your digital identity and privacy in Hong Kong. It is packed with features that you can use to bypass censorship and defeat surveillance. The VPN is also suitable for other online tasks, such as streaming.

Servers and Coverage (Score: 5 out of 5)

This VPN service has a large server network with over 3200 servers with a server location in Hong Kong. The servers are optimized for various tasks, and the obfuscated server technology is handy for Hong Kong.

Performance and Connection Speed (Score: 4.9 out of 5)

Surfshark offers a speedy connection with unlimited bandwidth. This translates to an excellent performance that you can use for other online tasks other than reclaiming your internet freedom. These tasks include streaming buffer-free content or gaming online. 

Privacy and Security (Score: 5 out of 5)

Besides obfuscation, Surfshark offers privacy and security-enhancing features such as multi-hop, NoBorders mode, leak protection, RAM-only servers, kill switch, and CleanWeb. Surfshark is also a no-logs VPN that uses next-gen encryptions.

Usability and Apps (Score: 4.9 out of 5)

Surfshark provides native VPN apps for almost every device. The apps make it easy to use the VPN service without tweaking anything. This VPN service is also among the premium VPNs that offer unlimited simultaneous connections.

4. AtlasVPN – Seamlessly Secure Your Digital Privacy in Hong Kong

Optimized connection speeds. Great free VPN plan. Unlimited device connections.

9.8 5/5 Stars

Free Download

AtlasVPN Key Features

• Strong privacy and security.
• Great stance on the no-logs policy.
• SafeSwap servers for switching IP addresses.
• Extra layers of privacy.
• Well-designed VPN apps.

AtlasVPN Overview and Why We Recommend It for Hong Kong

Atlas VPN is your Hong Kong VPN for protecting your privacy and digital lifestyle. It offers an outstanding balance between performance and security. Additionally, you can enjoy the premium VPN experience on its free VPN plan with no speed caps.

Servers and Coverage (Score: 4.7 out of 5)

Unlike other VPNs, Atlas VPN sports a small network of 1000 servers. Nonetheless, it covers 41 countries, including a server location in Hong Kong. AtlasVPN servers are optimized for various tasks, but they are suitable for protecting your online activities.

Performance and Connection Speed (Score: 5 out of 5)

AtlasVPN performs better due to its small server network that uses a 10Gbps connection to beat congestion. Thus, you can use the VPN service for bandwidth-heavy activities, and you won’t experience diminishing performance

Privacy and Security (Score: 5 out of 5)

Besides encryption and a no-logs policy, AtlasVPN has other security and privacy-enhancing features such as SafeSwap and multi-hop servers. These servers add an extra anonymity layer that bolsters your protection against prying eyes and censorship.

Usability and Apps (Score: 5 out of 5)

AtlasVPN ensures you are protected on all devices since it is compatible with most platforms. Its apps are minimalistic, and their clutter-free nature makes them easy to use. The connect button automatically chooses the best server for your connection.

5. CyberGhost VPN – Best Hong Kong VPN for Bypassing Geo-restrictions

Extensive server network. Customized VPN profiles. 45-day money-back guarantee.

9.7 5/5 Stars

Free Download

CyberGhost VPN Key Features

• Highest possible speeds.
• Addons to bolster your security and privacy.
• RAM-based server infrastructure.
• Zero logging policy.
• Connects up to 7 devices simultaneously.

CyberGhost VPN Overview and Why We Recommend It for Hong Kong

CyberGhost is a suitable option for reclaiming your online freedom in Hong Kong. This VPN service has been an ardent advocate for free and open internet. Its large fleet of servers allows you to bypass censorship and protect your online activities from surveillance and monitoring.

Servers and Coverage (Score: 5 out of 5)

CyberGhost has an extensive network of over 9500 servers in 100 countries. Hong Kong is among the 125 locations that this server network covers. With such a network, you get many options for unblocking content and bypassing restrictions. CyberGhost servers are grouped into streaming, dedicated IP, torrenting, and No Spy categories.

Performance and Connection Speed (Score: 4.8 out of 5)

Cyberghost servers offer the highest possible speeds, ensuring a fast and reliable connection. Its 10 Gbps network easily handles high traffic demands. Thus, you can also use this VPN service for torrenting, streaming, and other bandwidth-intensive activities.

Privacy and Security (Score: 4.8 out of 5)

CyberGhost uses strong encryption to secure your internet connection. No one will be able to see what you are doing online. This VPN also uses RAM-based servers and doesn’t log your online activities. To maximize your security and privacy, CyberGhost offers its custom-engineered in-house No-Spy servers.

Usability and Apps (Score: 4.8 out of 5)

CyberGhost has user-friendly VPN apps with customized VPN profiles. These profiles allow you to get started with the VPN service on the go. Before committing to a subscription, you can test this VPN service through its generous 45-day money-back guarantee.

6. NordVPN – Hong Kong VPN for Advanced Security and Privacy

Task specific servers. Traffic routing and remote management. Cybersecurity solution.

9.7 5/5 Stars

Free Download

NordVPN Key Features

• Strong security and privacy.
• Large fleet of servers.
• Features for extra anonymity and security.
• Great unblocking capabilities.
• Connects up to 6 devices simultaneously.

NordVPN Overview and Why We Recommend It for Hong Kong

NordVPN for Hong Kong allows you to have complete online freedom. This VPN service secures your online activity with ultimate privacy and offers extra privacy and security features. These features add a layer of anonymity protection and allow you to defeat censorship and bypass restrictions.  

Servers and Coverage (Score: 5 out of 5)

NordVPN has a larger server network that covers 60 countries, including Hong Kong. Its 5800-plus servers are optimized for various online tasks. NordVPN server categories include double VPN, onion over VPN, P2P, obfuscation, and dedicated IP servers. You can also use the servers to bypass geo-restrictions.

Performance and Connection Speed (Score: 4.8 out of 5)

Despite investing heavily in security and privacy, NordVPN is still among the fastest VPNs. It offers blazing speeds thanks to its WireGuard-based NordLynx protocol. Thus, you can enjoy a secure VPN experience while streaming, torrenting, or playing online games. 

Privacy and Security (Score: 4.8 out of 5)

NordVPN’s extra privacy and security features deliver a watertight solution for bypassing censorship and defeating monitoring in Hong Kong. This VPN service relies on next-generation encryptions to keep unauthorized parties from snooping on your online activities. Besides encryption, NordVPN implements a strict no-logs policy.

Usability and Apps (Score: 4.8 out of 5)

This VPN service is compatible with most platforms, and you can confidently use it to secure your online activities from any device. You also get excellent value for your money since NordVPN apps offer more than a VPN experience. They also provide threat protection, dark web monitoring, and remote device management features.

7. PureVPN – Reliable and Fast VPN for Hong Kong

Quantum-resistant servers. Excellent for gaming and file sharing. Protects up to 10 devices simultaneously.

9.6 4.5/5 Stars

Free Download

PureVPN Key Features

• No-logs VPN service.
• Large server network.
• Fast connection speeds.
• Excellent security and privacy.
• Easy-to-use apps.

PureVPN Overview and Why We Recommend It for Hong Kong

PureVPN is a popular VPN provider that you can use while in Hong Kong. It is well-rounded, and you can use the service for various online tasks while safeguarding your digital freedom. Its obfuscation capabilities allow you to defeat censorship and restrictions without raising any alarms. It is also a reliable option for unblocking streaming services.

Servers and Coverage (Score: 5 out of 5)

Despite having an extensive server network of 6500 plus servers in 70 countries, PureVPN has no server in Hong Kong. To connect to Hong Kong, PureVPN redirects your traffic through a Japanese server. This use of a virtual server is due to the introduction of the NSL, which saw many VPNs shut down their physical servers in Hong Kong.

Performance and Connection Speed (Score: 4.7 out of 5)

PureVPN offers a stellar performance with good, reliable speeds. Its server network is optimized to deliver fast 20Gbps connection speeds. This internet connection is enough for most online tasks. Usually, faraway servers have inconsistent speeds as compared to nearer servers. Therefore, for tasks such as gaming, avoid distant servers.

Privacy and Security (Score: 4.7 out of 5)

PureVPN secures your online connections and activities using unbreakable encryptions. Additionally, it also sports a strict no-logs policy. Unlike its peers, PureVPN has also gone ahead in the VPN game by introducing quantum servers. If you are up against quantum threats, connect to one of these servers to protect your connection.

Usability and Apps (Score: 4.7 out of 5)

PureVPN provides an easy way to use the VPN service through its VPN apps for computers, smartphones, and streaming devices. The VPN service is also compatible with gaming consoles and routers. You can get started on the go after logging in. The apps have an intuitive feel, and they are clutter-free. The VPN for PC has many more features than what is available on the other platforms.

8. PrivadoVPN – High-speed VPN for Hong Kong

Under strong Swiss privacy laws. Good free VPN option. Supports up to 10 simultaneous connections.

9.6 4.5/5 Stars

Free Download

PrivadoVPN Key Features

• Solid secure encryptions.
• Optimized fast speeds.
• Strict no-logs policy.
• Managed VPN network.
• Simple VPN apps.

PrivadoVPN Overview and Why We Recommend It for Hong Kong

The Swiss solid privacy laws make PrivadoVPN an excellent VPN service to protect your digital privacy in Hong Kong. This simple VPN doesn’t have much clutter, and it is suitable if you prefer on-the-go connections without tweaks. PrivadoVPN is among the few VPNs that offer a good free VPN plan despite the limitations.

Servers and Coverage (Score: 3 out of 5)

PrivadoVPN has a relatively small server network that surprisingly spans across 65 cities in 48 countries. Usually, a small server network is not ideal for unblocking worldwide content. Nonetheless, it has various upsides, such as being easy to optimize and secure. This is evident in PrivadoVPN since it manages its entire server network.

Performance and Connection Speed (Score: 5 out of 5)

PrivadoVPN offers a seamless VPN experience with incredible speeds, even on its free servers. Its high-speed connections can be attributed to the small network, which is easy to optimize. This VPN also offers fast and reliable VPN protocols, including WireGuard. The fast speeds and privacy make PrivadoVPN suitable for most online tasks in Hong Kong.

Privacy and Security (Score: 5 out of 5)

PrivadoVPN offers world-class security that protects your online activities from hackers, government watchdogs, and other internet snoopers. This VPN service takes pride in the Swiss privacy laws, and thus, it upholds your privacy rights through its zero-logs policy. Moreover, its small physical server network also has fewer attack points and exploits.

Usability and Apps (Score: 5 out of 5)

PrivadoVPN apps provide a seamless way to safeguard your online experience. They sport a simple interface which makes navigation easy. Additionally, you don’t have to waste time customizing the VPN to get connected. The VPN service is compatible with most computing platforms, and you can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously.

9. IPVanish – Best Hong Kong VPN for Unmetered Connections

Great for private browsing. Many shared IP addresses. Unlimited device connections.

9.5 4/5 Stars

Free Download

IPVanish Key Features  

• Robust online security and privacy.
• Excellent unblocking for US services.
• Strict no-logs policy.
• VPN traffic scrambling.
• Customer support with phone number.

IPVanish Overview and Why We Recommend It for Hong Kong

IPVanish is a versatile VPN option you can use to protect your privacy in Hong Kong. This VPN service was among the few providers to remove their servers in Hong Kong when the NSL was implemented. They redeployed new servers in 2022 that ensure your digital lifestyle’s ultimate privacy and security in Hong Kong.

Servers and Coverage (Score: 4.9 out of 5)

IPVanish has a global network of 2,200 servers that cover over 75 locations in 51 countries. These servers offer 40,000 plus shared IP addresses that ensure you can bypass blocks and reclaim your digital freedom. In Hong Kong, IPVanish offers non-local RADIUS servers with encrypted disk images. This is a measure to protect your privacy in case of server seizure.

Performance and Connection Speed (Score: 5 out of 5)

Generally, IPVanish offers the best connection speeds for sharing files, multiplayer gaming, and streaming – especially with Kodi. Nonetheless, you might not experience the full VPN performance with the Hong Kong servers. This is because of the RADIUS servers available in Hong Kong. According to IPVanish, your online privacy is more important than convenience.

Privacy and Security (Score: 5 out of 5)

IPVanish champions for online freedom and internet privacy. Therefore, it aims to provide a secure online environment using unbreakable encryptions to protect your online activities. Additionally, IPVanish has a strict no-logs policy and has proven it through independent third-party audits. No one will snoop on your online activities with this VPN.

Usability and Apps (Score: 5 out of 5)

IPVanish offers user-friendly native VPN apps for desktops, smartphones, and other computing platforms. The apps sport a simple, minimalistic interface that conveniently lets you use the VPN service without much configuration. The desktop apps make your work easier by showing you servers with their ping.  

10. Planet Free VPN – Reliable Freemium VPN for Hong Kong

No registration information is required. Great free VPN option. Supports up to 10 simultaneous connections.

9.5 4/5 Stars

Free Download

Planet Free VPN Key Features

• Strong security and privacy.
• Supports P2P file sharing.
• Compatible with many cryptocurrency payment options.
• Reliable connection speeds.
• Excellent unblocking.

Planet Free VPN Overview and Why We Recommend It for Hong Kong

Planet VPN is a reliable and secure VPN service you can use to protect your online freedom and privacy in Hong Kong. This VPN service supports the idea of a free internet without online injustices. Thus, it allows everyone to access the internet freely through its free VPN.

Servers and Coverage (Score: 4 out of 5)

This VPN service has a sizable network of 1260 servers across 60 countries. It also has a server location in Hong Kong. The server infrastructure is optimized to bypass restrictions and unblock content. You can use the premium servers of Planet VPN servers to stream content from various popular platforms.

Performance and Connection Speed (Score: 5 out of 5)

Planet VPN offers optimal performance and incredible speeds across its servers. This performance suits streaming, online gaming, and sharing P2P files without lags. Nonetheless, you might experience a slow VPN connection on the free servers. This is due to congestion, and the few small servers cannot meet the ever-increasing VPN demand.

Privacy and Security (Score: 4 out of 5)

Planet VPN ensures the privacy of your online connections and activities through solid encryptions. However, this VPN service still uses encrypted hard disks – an outdated way of providing privacy in the VPN market. Nonetheless, this VPN maintains a strict no-log policy, which has not been independently audited.

Usability and Apps (Score: 5 out of 5)

Planet VPN supports popular operating systems like Android, iOS, MacOS, and Windows. The free VPN shows ads on Android, which is not a good experience. For convenience and to elevate your privacy, you can use the VPN without registering your details. The VPN apps are minimalistic and don’t offer many settings to tweak or customize.

Best VPNs for Hong Kong Comparison

Here is an overview of how the best Hong Kong VPNs compare across all critical aspects.

How Does a VPN Work?

A VPN secures your online connection and protects your online privacy by using encryptions and masking your IP address. The encryptions make your online activities and connections unreadable to unauthorized prying eyes. If they happen to intercept your connection, they won’t be able to know what you are doing online.

To mask your IP address, a VPN routes your online traffic to a chosen VPN server. For instance, if you connect to an Australian server from Hong Kong, your online traffic will seem to originate from Australia instead of Hong Kong. In this process, the VPN assigns you an Australian IP address.

Besides masking your IP address, you also get a geo-location corresponding to the chosen server. This new geo-location allows you to access geo-restricted content. Thus, you can access restricted content worldwide by changing your server location.

Why Would You Want to Use a VPN in Hong Kong?

Mainland China aggressively continues to assert its control in Hong Kong. Starting with the introduction of the NSL, digital freedom, and online privacy is slowly being eroded in Hong Kong. Under Article 43 of the NSL, authorities can conduct surveillance, intercept communications, and block or delete published online content.

Although the situation has not become dire for the ordinary netizen, you still need a VPN to reclaim digital freedom and privacy. Here is why a VPN is a must-have in Hong Kong.

1. Bypass Internet Censorship

Due to fear of fines, imprisonment, or both, and attacks on pro-democracy media, most of the censorship in Hong Kong is in the form of self-censorship. Netizens and media houses dealing with information that doesn’t align with NSL, such as Apple Daily, have been forced to close shop.

If you are a political dissident, pro-democracy journalist, or nonconformist netizen in Hong Kong and the internet is your platform, using a premium no-logs policy VPN for your online activities would be best to avoid non-compliance consequences.

2. Unblock Websites and Restricted Services

Most websites and services are still accessible in Hong Kong, unlike mainland China. However, with the introduction of NSL, Hong Kong has started blocking websites citing links to political protests and anti-government movements. Affected sites include HKChronicles and the Hong Kong Charter.

Additionally, due to privacy concerns and even pressure from foreign policies, companies such as Google, Open AI’s ChatGPT, and TikTok have ceased offering or have limited their services in Hong Kong. If you want to use these services and unblock websites in Hong Kong, the sure workaround is a premium VPN.

3. Bolster Your Digital Privacy

Since the implementation of NSL, Hong Kong has been actively monitoring and surveilling its netizens, especially the ones involved with pro-democracy. This has been evident with the arrests and sentencing of various individuals, such as a telegram administrator.

Recently, a Hong Kong court sentenced a student to 2 months in jail over pro-independence posts she made online while in Japan. These scenarios showcase that you need to protect your digital identity at all times, and the best way to do this is by using a VPN. Besides a VPN, use other privacy-enhancing tools when posting sensitive content online.

4. Protect Your Online Security

It is necessary to secure your activities and connections at all times when you are online. The internet has many dangers, including hackers that target your credentials and personal information. There is also a risk of man-in-the-middle attacks and even malware. When you secure your online connections with a VPN, you also protect your digital privacy and identity.

5. Stream Worldwide Content

Copyright licensing and other distribution agreements might bar you from enjoying your favorite content in Hong Kong. Platforms such as Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney Plus, HBO, and others offer content that differs from place to place due to geo-restrictions. Other platforms, such as Hulu, are only available in specific locales.

You will need to bypass geo-restriction blocks to stream various catalogs from multiple geo-locations while you are in Hong Kong. The best way to do this is by using a premium VPN.

6. Defeat Price Discrimination

Apart from security, privacy, and streaming content, a VPN might save you cash. Hong Kong is among the world’s top expensive cities, and you might want to spend less and save more. A VPN can help you get better deals, especially when shopping online or purchasing products from other countries.

All you have to do is change your server location to a region where products are cheap, including shipping costs.

Best VPN for Hong Kong by Category

The National Security Law is slowly eroding internet freedom in Hong Kong. There have been arrests connected to online activities, and authorities can now block websites and intercept communications. Additionally, some popular services are not offered in Hong Kong due to compliance issues. Thus, it is a must always to protect your online privacy.

iOS VPN

A Hong Kong VPN for your iOS device protects you from various online risks, such as unauthorized prying eyes of the government and hackers. Additionally, when used correctly, a VPN can allow you to install apps unavailable in the Hong Kong app store market. The best Hong Kong VPNs for iOS include ExpressVPN, CyberGhost VPN, and PIA VPN.

VPN for Chrome Browser

You need a VPN for your browser to surf the internet privately and protect your connections from man-in-the-middle attacks. A VPN will also protect your online login credentials and keep away trackers and targeting ads. The best VPN Chrome extension for your Chrome browser in Hong Kong include ExpressVPN, Surfshark, and NordVPN.

VPN for ChatGPT

Due to privacy concerns, OpenAI doesn’t offer ChatGPT in Hong Kong. Furthermore, Hong Kong academic institutions have banned ChatGPT since they are worried about plagiarism. Nonetheless, to access and enjoy ChatGPT benefits in Hong Kong, you need a reliable VPN service such as IPVanish, AtlasVPN, and PIA VPN.

VPN services for TikTok

TikTok is not available in Hong Kong due to regulatory and compliance issues. You need an active VPN connection to get it from the App Store and continue using it while you are in Hong Kong. The best VPN services for this task include NordVPN, IPVanish, and Surfshark.

VPN for Netflix

Netflix provides varying content to different regions according to licenses and distribution agreements. This streaming giant achieves this endeavor by implementing geo-restrictions. You need a VPN with unmatched unblocking capabilities to watch vast Netflix catalogs in Hong Kong. Such VPNs include ExpressVPN, CyberGhost VPN, and Surfshark.

What Makes a Good VPN for Hong Kong?

Choosing the best VPN for Hong Kong can be tricky if you don’t know what to look for. This task might even be more challenging since the market is flooded with substandard VPNs. Nonetheless, here is an overview of what makes a good VPN for Hong Kong. These are the aspects you should consider when picking a Hong Kong VPN.

• Worldwide server coverage and servers in Hong Kong – A server coverage across the world offers you a pool of server locations you can use to access unlimited content. A server in Hong Kong allows you to access Hong Kong content while protecting your privacy.
• Robust security and privacy – A VPN for Hong Kong should use strong encryption and also have a proven no-log policy. You should also opt for a VPN with security and privacy-enhancing features such as leak protection, kill switch, RAM servers, obfuscation, and double VPN/multi-hop servers.
• Audited VPN service ­– Auditing examines and verifies if what a VPN service claims is valid regarding security and privacy, especially the no-log policy. A good VPN for Hong Kong should be open to continuous independent audits from reputable firms.
• Excellent unblocking capabilities – If you want to stream online content and bypass geo-restrictions easily, consider a VPN with unmatched unblocking capabilities. Such VPNs should offer optimized performance and servers for various online activities.
• Compatibility with most devices– A good Hong Kong VPN should provide native VPN apps for various devices. Its apps should also be user-friendly and easy to use. Additionally, consider a VPN that offers simultaneous connections to get value for your money.
• 24/7 customer support – Once in a while, you will run into issues while using a VPN service. Therefore, a good VPN for Hong Kong should have quick and responsive customer service to solve VPN issues when they arise. It would be best to choose a VPN with a 24/7 live chat.

How to Use a VPN in Hong Kong

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to get started and use a VPN in Hong Kong.

1. Pick any of our top VPN selections for Hong Kong; we will use Private Internet Access VPN in this section.
2. Open your browser, go to the official PIA VPN website, click the ‘Get PIA VPN’ button, and choose your subscription plan. Enter your payment details to register for the VPN service.
3. After subscribing successfully, download and install a VPN app compatible with your device. You can get it on the website’s app section or from the VPN download section on your account dashboard.
4. Launch the VPN, click the ‘log in’ button, and enter your login credentials. You can also choose to log in with email.
5. After a successful login, connect to any server location and enjoy a private online experience.

To ensure your VPN connection is working correctly, checking for leaks is a good idea. A leaking VPN will severely compromise your privacy while giving you a false sense of security. Here is how to check for leaks:

1. Disconnect your VPN and go to IP leak. Note the shown IP address and the corresponding DNS server locations.
2. Connect your VPN, reload the IP leak website, and check the shown IP address and DNS server locations again.

If you get the same IP address in both steps, your VPN is leaking. If you get a different IP address in Step 2, but the DNS server locations are similar to those in Step 1, your VPN is leaking. If you get a different IP address and DNS server locations corresponding to the VPN server location you chose, your VPN is working correctly.

Free VPN – Is It Worth It?

Free VPNs are enticing since you don’t have to spend money on them. However, there’s nothing like a free lunch in the VPN world. Free VPNs log and sell your data to other third parties in order to fund their operational cost.

Selling your data to other parties compromises your online security and privacy. A while ago, a study found that most free VPNs share your data with entities in countries that care less for your privacy, such as China. Additionally, free VPNs act as business models – most will bombard you with targeted ads. Other free VPNs act as trojans for malware.

Besides doing away with your privacy, free VPN services have various limitations. They sport a small server network that cannot meet the influx of demand from users. To ensure everyone is served, free VPNs offer a fixed bandwidth with capped speeds. This combination is not suitable for speed-intensive tasks such as downloading content.

Furthermore, with a small server network, your chances of bypassing geo-restrictions and censorship are slim. This is because it is easier for entities to block all IP address ranges associated with free VPN servers. Free VPNs also lack security and privacy-enhancing features such as kill switch and obfuscation.

Nonetheless, you can enjoy a free VPN experience from premium VPN services that offer a free VPN plan. There are still limitations, but they don’t jeopardize your online security and privacy. One of the best free VPN services is AtlasVPN. Its free VPN service offers the premium AtlasVPN experience except for limited bandwidth and 3 free locations, suitable for light internet browsing.

Free vs. Paid VPN Comparison

Here is how free and paid VPN services compare against each other.

Therefore, a paid VPN is your best choice in Hong Kong.

Are VPNs legal in Hong Kong?

No laws prohibit or restrict the use of VPN services in Hong Kong. Therefore, VPNs are legal and can be used to protect your online security and privacy. However, using a VPN for activities deemed criminal in Hong Kong, such as sharing pirated content, is illegal and punishable by law if found.

Wrap-Up: The Best Hong Kong VPN

The best VPN for Hong Kong will allow you to protect your privacy and digital identity amidst the challenges brought by NSL. The VPN will also allow you to reclaim your internet freedom and enjoy unrestricted internet.

For Hong Kong, we recommend using ExpressVPN. It offers impeccable security and privacy, excellent unblocking capabilities, and it is suitable for various online tasks such as secure torrenting, lag-free gaming, HD streaming, and private browsing.

FAQs

Does the Great Firewall of China work in Hong Kong?

No. China’s Great Firewall doesn’t work in Hong Kong at the moment. However, with the implementation of NSL and the encroachment of Hong Kong by mainland China, it is just a matter of time before we see the Great Firewall in Hong Kong. Soon, the best VPN for China might also work in Hong Kong.

How do I get a Hong Kong IP address using my VPN?

The easiest way to get a Hong Kong IP address is to connect to a server location in Hong Kong. Usually, a VPN assigns you the IP address of the chosen server. Internet entities will only see a Hong Kong IP address when connected to a Hong Kong server.

Does Hong Kong allow VPNs?

Yes. VPNs are legal in Hong Kong. Unlike mainland China, there’s no law prohibiting the usage of VPNs or banning their usage in this special administrative region.

Can you be punished for using a VPN in Hong Kong?

Generally, since VPNs are legal, you won’t be punished for using a VPN in Hong Kong. However, if found using a VPN for illegal activities or committing criminal offenses, you will be punished according to the law.

Which is the best Hong Kong VPN?

Our selection of VPNs offers the best VPN services to use while you are in Hong Kong. Nonetheless, our number-one pick is ExpressVPN. This trusted VPN service is fast, reliable, and provides impeccable security and privacy.

Justin Connor

Justin Connor

With over a decade of experience, Justin is a seasoned writer specializing in cybersecurity and technology. His proficiency spans online privacy, digital security, VPNs, cord-cutting, and various Information Technology domains. Justin has contributed authoritative content to reputable cybersecurity platforms, including PrivacyAffairs, PreciseSecurity, BestDroidplayer, showcasing his in-depth knowledge and commitment to delivering impactful insights in the rapidly evolving landscape of cybersecurity.