Apple is known for the best security practices but that does not mean that it protects all your data. So, if you are a Mac user, you might need an additional layer of security to protect all your information. Apple has strived hard to make Mac more secure but to form a stable connection with mac and the internet, VPN is mandatory. Mac does not prevent your ISP from collecting your IP address but the best VPNs for Mac does.
Selecting the best Mac VPN is an arduous process, as there are a number of factors to assess before coming to one final decision. And in this case, Mac users are used to the clean, intuitive interface with a well-organized set of digital tools therefore the usability of VPN matters a lot. Let’s dig deeper and find the best VPN that complements macOS machines.
Summary- Best VPNs for Mac
- NordVPN – Best and Fastest Mac VPN
- Surfshark – Affordable Mac VPN with unlimited device connection
- ExpressVPN – Privacy-focused VPN for MacBook
- IPVanish – Security Guarantee VPN for Mac users
- Private Internet Access- Enormous network macOS VPN
Charting the best VPNs for Mac
Best VPNs for Mac | Price | Number of servers | Security features | Speed |
---|---|---|---|---|
NordVPN | $3.49/month | 5,500+ servers in 60 countries | Strong encryption, kill switch, DNS leak protection, double VPN | Very fast |
Surfshark | $2.49/month | 3,200+ servers in 65 countries | Strong encryption, kill switch, DNS leak protection | Fast |
ExpressVPN | $6.67/month | 3,000+ servers in 94 countries | Strong encryption, kill switch, DNS leak protection | Very fast |
IPVanish | $3.99/month | 2,000+ servers in 75 countries | Strong encryption, kill switch, DNS leak protection | Fast |
Private Internet Access (PIA) | $11.95/month | 10,000+ servers in 84 countries | Strong encryption, kill switch, DNS leak protection | Fast |
What makes the best VPNs for Mac?
Choosing the best VPN for Mac is entirely dependent on the need and preferences of users. There are multiple reasons to choose VPN whether it’s for streaming, torrenting, or staying secure online. for novices and experienced VPN users, here’s what makes the best VPN for Mac:
macOS app functionality
Not everything that works well on Android can show optimal performance on Mac. Some applications are not well developed for Mac and therefore offer fewer features or have connection issues. Therefore, it is important to select VPN that is primarily designed for the macOS app.
Apple media service unblocking
Having a VPN with a large server fleet can easily bypass restrictions of Apple media service. A good VPN for macOS can unblock Apple TV for Chinese users.
Zero logging policy
Mac devices like other device is not safe from ISP monitoring and surveillance of the government, so a VPN provider with a clear no-logs policy is important. Also it is better if the privacy policy is audited by an independent firm.
Robust security features
The best VPNs for Mac have industry-standard encryption AES-256 to ensure unbreakable data encryption. Moreover, a kill switch can protect your data from leaking even if the internet connection drops.
High-speed retention
MacOS devices are fast and provide a smooth user experience. VPNs potentially decrease the browsing speed but it’s important to choose VPN that retains a high-speed percentage.
Geo-restriction bypassing capabilities
Some VPNs among the list of best VPNs for Mac have streaming-optimized servers with a large server network to bypass geo-blocks. For all those who want to watch streaming content in high resolution, Such VPNs are a must-have. In this way, unblocking global libraries on Netflix, Hulu, and HBO Max is comparatively easier.
1. NordVPN
Pros | Cons |
Extra security features | Apps are a little clunky |
Lots of extensions | |
Loads of servers | |
Impressive WireGuard speed |
NordVPN is the best-known VPN service in the market and is at the top of list for all Mac users. This VPN is comparatively easy to use with more up-to-date features. With powerful encryption and various protocols, it delivers exceptional speed. It has a large server fleet so you don’t have to figure out which server to choose and can easily click on the “Quick connect” feature. This feature will form an immediate connection with the server that is best suitable for your needs and preferences. Additionally for unrivaled privacy, the distinct “ Onion over VPN” routes you through the Tor network. NordVPN gained the top spot among the best VPNs for Mac with its ultra fast speed.
2. Surfshark
Pros | Cons |
Low subscription cost | Kill switch cannot be customized |
Data breach alerts | |
Strict no log policy | |
Impressive speed with WireGuard protocol |
SurfShark is a great-value VPN that offers advanced features in a minimal price range. The application is comparatively easy to use and have strong unblock capabilities. The connection speed is remarkable with WireGuard protocol to deliver ultra-fast speed. You won’t notice any buffering or lagging until the WireGuard protocol is connected. With advancements in the service, the company has upgraded all its servers to run entirely on RAM. Being run from Netherlands, it is a privacy-friendly option for secure connection on Mac.
3. ExpressVPN
Pros | Cons |
Audited no logs | High subscription cost |
Unblocks a range of streaming sites | |
Split tunneling for macOS apps | |
24/7 Customer Support |
ExpressVPN is one of the greatest VPN services you can trust on as a Mac user. This VPN is a complete package with all contemporary functionalities that include an effective kill switch and impressive device support. The split tunneling feature is readily available for app-by-app protection for macOS. ExpressVPN has set an example for other VPNs with its high-level security.
Being in the list of best VPNs for Mac it has RAM Based servers along with solid device and tech support. The Lightway protocol efficiently increases its speed but as it’s open-source so other services can make use of it.
4. IPVanish
Pros | Cons |
Unblocks various streaming giants | Subscription cost raises every year |
Great performance | |
Best-in-class cloud storage option | |
Connection automatization option |
IPVanish is a viable option for Mac with fast speed, special customization options, and advanced security features. Like all the reputable VPN options in the market, it offers a functional kill switch. This on-demand feature lets you customize your Mac to automate VPN connections especially when connected to public Wifi.
With fast speed of this VPN among the best VPNs for Mac, you will be able to access geo-restricted content without buffering. Although the Mac application is quite old school but it provides all the essential VPN functionalities. The application with simple interface can be easily used by beginners to stream content worldwide.
5. Private Internet Access
Pros | Cons |
Good for advanced VPN users | Average speed |
Lots of customization options | Based in 5-Eyes country |
Dedicated streaming servers to unblock content | |
24/7 availability of customer support |
Private Internet Access is the one of those VPNs with proven no-log claims in the court. PIA offers all the advanced functionalities to facilitate tech-savvy users. On Mac, it’s easier to unblock your favorite show with PIA. Through dedicated streaming servers, you can access to more IPs for stable connection. PIA has a comprehensive search engine that allows you to completely sort the servers alphabetically depending on their latency. The split tunneling feature in the macOS application allows you to use VPN with specific applications. Moreover, this VPN restricts the bandwidth and offers good speed for streaming and browsing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a Mac VPN work?
How to maintain fast speed with Mac VPN?
1. Choose VPN with range of servers
2. Connect to nearby server
3. Use VPN with robust WireGuard protocol
4. Check your Internet base speed