Whether you’re browsing the web for fun,streaming content, orworking remotely, you can hardly use the internet today without worrying about online privacy and security. So, how do you worry less and enjoy your online activities? Getting a decentVPN servicecould give you some reassurance. A VPN not only offers yousecurity and privacyby encrypting your internet traffic, but it also allows you to accessgeo-restricted content, providing a gateway to services locked to specific regions.
For Mac users, there are many VPN options out there to pick from, we also have a guide forWindows users VPN- if you are a two OS household. As we always do at Pocket-lint, we’ll bring you the best VPNs that have passed through our assessment and hold the potential to guarantee your privacy and enhance your online security. Here’s our picks for the best VPN providers for Mac users.
ExpressVPN
Private Internet Access
Best VPN for Mac: Our top picks
Budget-friendly and supports multiple devices
Surfshark VPN supports unlimited device connection and works perfectly on all macOS versions.
Surfshark is a budget-friendly VPN service that offers excellent value for its affordable monthly subscription. It’s great forunblocking popular streaming serviceslike Netflix and BBC iPlayer. While it lacks some specialized servers found in competitors like NordVPN, it compensates with impressive connection speeds, particularly when using the WireGuard protocol. You won’t experience noticeable internet slowdowns, provided you choose WireGuard and connect to nearby servers. Surfshark runs all its servers in RAM instead of traditional hard drives found in servers and offers two-factor authentication (2FA), a feature not commonly found in other VPN services.
Surfshark stands out because it offers lower monthly prices compared to its competitors, and it allows you to connect an unlimited number of devices. However, keep in mind that the renewal cost can be relatively higher than other competitors. As a Mac user, you can run Surfshark on any version of macOS and web browsers. It includes essential security features like a kill switch, ad-blocker, cookie pop-up blocker, real-time email and credit card breach alert and a strict no-logs policy. The service also offers a Multi-Hop feature for routing your connection through two VPN servers for added security.
Surfshark offers a three-tier pricing plan for Mac users, with a one-month free bonus attached to all three plans.
Express VPN sets the standard when it comes to user-friendliness and speed.
ExpressVPN is another reliable VPN option for Mac users and can be used for gaming, streaming, or working from remote locations due to its speed. While it may not offer unlimited simultaneous connections like Surfshark, it is still packed with great features that can guarantee your privacy and online security.
The introduction of the Lightway protocol has significantly boosted ExpressVPN’s speeds. While ExpressVPN is undoubtedly one of the powerhouses in the VPN market for Mac users, it should be noted that it tends to be on the pricier side compared to some of its more budget-friendly competitors.
Express VPN offers one-month, six-month and 12-month subscription plans.
International server coverage is vast
NordVPN has one of the most extensive servers in sixty countries and has advanced security features that some of its competitors lack.
NordVPN allows you to connect to only six devices in one subscription but compensates for having the most extensive network servers (5,800+ servers) spanning approximately 60 countries.
In terms of functionality, NordVPN offers a robust set of features that are easily accessible through its user-friendly interface. These include a kill switch, dark web monitor, threat protection and meshnet features, DNS-leak detection, the option for a dedicated IP address (available as an add-on), and the convenience of split tunneling.
There is also a team-centric version featuring management dashboards for teams. For enhanced performance, NordVPN runs on the NordLynx protocol and advanced encryption, which offer reliable security when connected to public Wi-Fi. This modern and secure protocol surpasses older alternatives like OpenVPN and IKEv2 in terms of efficiency and speed.
you’re able to get NordVPN under a 2-year, 1-year and Monthly plan. Each plan currently comes with a 3-month-free bonus and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Great for multiple devices
PIA offers simultaneous connection to an unlimited number of devices through a single subscription and places no cap on bandwidth.
PIA is an open-source VPN solution with multiple security and privacy features for macOS users, starting from version 10.13 and beyond. The VPN offers 128-bit and 256-bit AES encryption that protects your online data, rendering your IP address anonymous and safeguarding your browsing history from cybercriminals and ISPs.
Other notable features include multi-hop, which brings a higher level of privacy and security, split tunneling, an advanced kill switch and an automation feature that can help you connect and disconnect automatically for different types of networks.
With server locations spanning 91 countries, you can have a broad option of IP locations. The service also puts no caps on your bandwidth usage, ensuring unrestricted online activity. PIA’s support for P2P file sharing and the inclusion of an ads and malware blocker further enhance the user experience.
You can get PIA for a few different options.
Good for remote work and travel
ProtonVPN’s appeal revolves around its portability, speed accelerator feature and ad blocker capabilities.
ProtonVPN is another open-source VPN on our list and offers over 2900 servers across 65 countries. With one subscription, you may connect up to ten devices simultaneously. Its simple user interface makes it easy to connect to your preferred location with a single tap on the Connection button. Like every VPN on our list, Proton runs a strict no-logs policy and offers IPv6 leak protection to ensure your real IP address remains hidden. The open-source nature of the app allows anyone to review and verify its code for added transparency and security.
You’re also treated to some interesting features like split tunneling, which enables you to choose which websites use the VPN, a VPN accelerator designed to boost your VPN speed, a kill switch for added IP protection, and NetShield for blocking ads and malware. Proton VPN also supports P2P file sharing, making it a versatile choice for sharing and downloading files through BitTorrent and other P2P protocols.
ProtonVPN offers two main pricing categories – Proton VPN Plus and Proton Unlimited.
The bottom line: What is the best VPN for Mac?
While the VPN providers on our list are great options for Mac users, what may truly qualify as the best VPN for you may not be the same for another user. This is because some VPN services lay more emphasis on some features than others. So, choosing your best VPN boils down to your needs and priorities.
For instance, Surfshark stands out as the top choice for its perfect blend of security, streaming geo-restricted content and limitless connection features. So, if you need a VPN service that offers these features in one package, you may take a shot at Surfshark.
Surfshark VPN is a robust VPN service that offers end-to-end encryption, up to 10 Gbps speeds in over 100 countries, and Siri Shortcuts integration.
Another strong contender for Mac users is NordVPN, known for its robust security and privacy features. NordVPN offers additional layers of protection, including dark web monitor, dedicated IP, and advanced threat protection features. The flexibility of its subscription plans also ensures that you can find a pricing option that aligns with your budget.
Express VPN is a good option if you’re interested in a Mac VPN with the best speed. Due to its speed capabilities, it’s an excellent choice for streaming geo-restricted content, gaming, and accessibility needed for successful remote work.
How I chose the best Mac VPN
My choice of these VPNs is based on my experience using and testing some of them. I have used both Surfshark and ExpressVPN and have first-hand experience with what each brings. To learn about the others, I read up extensively on them and ran quick free trials. Below are some of the parameters that informed my choice of the above VPNs.
Do I really need a VPN on my Mac?
Yes, using a VPN on your Mac is essential toenhance your online privacy, protect against cyber threats, and access geo-restricted content while ensuring anonymity.
Are there free VPNs for Mac, and are they safe to use?
Yes, there are free VPNs for Mac, but they often come with limitations and potential security risks with no guarantee for a no-logs policy. So, it’s crucial to carefully research and choose areputable free VPN providerto ensure your online safety.
