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7 Best VPN for Mac Reviews in 2023| To Safely and Anonymously Browse the Internet

7 Top Picks

4 Reviewers

30 Hours of Research

30 Options Considered

Isn’t macOS famous for being stable and secure? Moreover,  it is well-known for its robust in-built security features. Therefore, why else would you need the best Mac VPN software when the operating system has features that make it secure? 

3 Top VPN for Mac Solutions

check out express vpn

1. [Best Overall]  

Express VPN

5/5

ExpressVPN Mac client is one of the best Mac VPNs that you can find in the VPN market. It has a reputation as a VPN that just works.


If you are looking for a VPN that will help you unblock restricted content and specific streaming services irrespective of where you are, search no more than ExpressVPN.

  • Strict no-logs policy to guarantee privacy
  • Supports a variety of devices
  • Easy to set up and use
check out surfshark

2. [Best For The Money]  Surfshark VPN

4.9/5

Surfshark VPN is your best bet if you are looking for a secure digital life.

Don’t you just hate it when you are struggling to learn a new skill watching YouTube videos, and then an ad pops up? It can be frustrating and annoying.


You need to enjoy a clean surfing environment with no ads, malware, trackers, and phishing.


  • Compatibility with a wide range of devices enhancing its versatility
  • Strict no-logs policy to guarantee your privacy
  • Split tunneling capability so that you can select apps that should go through the VPN
check out nord vpn

3. [Best for The Easy Use]  Nord VPN

4.8/5

Are you looking for VPN apps that will offer the best protection when browsing the internet on public Wireless access?


If yes, Nord VPN is what you are looking for. When you choose NordVPN, your security comes first. It offers you a secure and double VPN encryption tunnel for your traffic to flow.

  • Mobile app to protect your phone

  • P2P sharing for sharing your files
  • No-logs policy to guarantee privacy

Well, as much as macOS is secure and stable, it is most efficient in protecting your Mac computers from malware. On the other hand, a VPN (Virtual Private Network) helps protect user data and identity whenever you’re surfing online. When your document is out there, it is at the mercies of hackers and spammers. But a VPN deters them from accessing the information. In addition, we covered the best proxy servers, as well.

Are you still in doubt that you need the best Mac VPN software or would you rather go for an antivirus with VPN? Now that we are in agreement, which one would you take as the best Mac VPN? If you are still not sure, let’s explore all the possibilities. In addition, if you prefer Windows to macOS, check out the best free VPN for Firefox. Also, in case that you are a gamer, check out the best VPN gor gaming we reviewed.

Top VPN for Mac: Reviews and Buying Advice for Mac VPN Users

As one of Mac users, you don’t want to just settle on a VPN. 

Some of the VPN providers that claim to offer the best Mac VPNs are just out to do business. Once you use their VPN, you’ll find that your identity is still not protected.

Before you can settle for the best Mac VPN, scrutinize and evaluate its compatibility with your operating system.

Best VPNs for Mac Reviews

[Best VPN For Mac Overall]

1. Express VPN

5/5

ExpressVPN is one of the best VPNs for Mac that you can find in the market. It has a reputation as a VPN that just works. If you are looking for a VPN that will help you unblock restricted content irrespective of where you are, search no more than ExpressVPN.

The VPN boasts of over 3,000 servers in 94 countries around worldwide. If you are in a country where specific content is restricted, ExpressVPN allows you to choose a server from another location, and your IP address will appear as if you are browsing from a foreign place.

check out express vpn

Features:

  • Various subscription plans so that you pick the one that fits your needs and budget
  • Strict no-logs policy to guarantee privacy
  • Supports a variety of devices
  • Easy to set up and use
  •  High speeds to help you enjoy your streaming
What’s more?
It boasts impressive compatibility with a wide range of devices, including Android, Linux, macOS, Windows, iOS, and a VPN router. Are you worried about how to set up VPN on Mac when using ExpressVPN?
 
Worry no more as ExpressVPN has a straightforward and effortless installation process.
 
After downloading the iOS app, you get easy to follow steps that guide you on setting it up. The intuitive and user-friendly interface makes it easy for you to use it.
When looking for a VPN, one significant factor to consider is its no-logs policy. It guarantees you your privacy that your logs are safe from using by any third party. ExpressVPN has a strict no-logs policy. It is also based in the British Virgin Islands, which doesn’t have retention laws. As such, you don’t have to be nervous about any authority demanding your logs.

It also comes with a terminate switch that locks your data traffic if there is a interconnection block. This helps to prevent document leaks.

In terms of payments, ExpressVPN doesn’t offer a free VPN subscription. But it offers a variety of subscription plans so that you can choose your best. The plans include one month, six months, and 15 months plan, including three free months.

If you are an avid streamer, ExpressVPN is the perfect pick for you. It allows you to stream your favorite movie and TV shows using ultra-fast servers and unlimited bandwidth. It even enables you to stream 4k videos.

ExpressVPN Pros

  •  Versatile
  •   Privacy guaranteed
  • Anonymous browsing

ExpressVPN Cons

  •  Not the cheapest option

[Best For The Money]

2.  Surfshark VPN

4.9/5

Surfshark VPN is your best bet if you are looking for a secure digital life.

Don’t you just hate it when you are struggling to learn a new skill on YouTube, and then an ad pops up? It can be frustrating and annoying. You need to enjoy a clean surfing environment with no ads, malware, trackers, and phishing.

check out surfshark

Features:

  • Compatibility with a wide range of devices enhancing its versatility
  • Strict no-logs policy to guarantee your privacy
  • Split tunnel capability so that you can select apps that should go through the VPN
  • Ads blocking to minimize disruptions
  • Kill switch to prevent document leaks if there is an VPN connection drops
The VPN blocks ads so that you can enjoy your surfing without disruption.

Plus, the VPN stands out as one of the best Mac VPNs because of its compatibility with a wide variety of devices. You can use it whether you use iOS, Android, Linux, Windows, etc. You can also use it as a browser extension for Firefox and Chrome but no Safari VPN extension or Safari browser extension.

The VPN also allows split tunneling, known as Whitelister on the Surfshark app. Split tunneling is a technology that allows you to decide which app should go through the VPN and which ones should use the faster and unprotected tunnel.  
The advantage with Whitelister is that you don’t need to keep on turning the VPN on and off. If your banking website is not working with a VPN, you can add it to the tunnel with a faster VPN connection.

If your internet connection drops, you may be at risk of your identity and IP address leaking. Not so when you use Surfshark VPN. It comes with a switch that automatically locks your traffic when there is a VPN connection drop so that nothing can expose your sensitive document.

With their strict no-logs policy, you are sure that no third party can ever use your information. Therefore, you are free from hackers or even authorities who may want to use your document logs for any matter. The VPN also allows you to enjoy its camouflage feature, ensuring that even your ISP never realizes you are using a VPN.

If you have any issues with a Mac VPN, you can get help from the expert support team through live chat available 24/7.

Surfshark VPN Pros

  • Expert customer support
  • Ability to access geo-restricted content
  • Enhanced privacy and security

Surfshark VPN Cons

  •  Not easily configurable as the others

[Best For The Easy Use]

3.  Nord VPN

4.8/5

Are you looking for a VPN that will offer the best protection when browsing the websites on public Wi-Fi?

If yes, Nord VPN is what you are looking for. When you choose NordVPN, your network security comes first. It offers you a secure VPN and encrypted tunnel for your traffic to flow.

Additionally, it’s none of Nord VPN’s business to keep your logs. As such, a strict no-logs policy ensures that no traces of your web activities are left on their VPN servers. As such, nobody can track your information for any fraudulent purposes or to sell it to third parties.

check out nord vpn

Features:

  • Mobile app to protect your phone
  • P2P sharing for sharing your files
  • Strict Zero logs policy to guarantee privacy
  • Enhanced streaming speed so you can enjoy your movies and TV shows.
  • Encrypted document to prevent identity theft

Sometimes, when looking for a VPN, you are forced to choose between extra security and speed. Why?

When you use a VPN, your data traffic is routed through an encrypted tunnel, which may slow down your internet connection speed.

Most VPN service providers offer top-notch security but affect your internet speeds such that you can’t enjoy and access streaming service. Well, not so for NordVPN. It helps you to enjoy both by offering the best security and speed. Therefore, you can enjoy your favorite TV show and movie in full privacy and connection speeds.

What’s more?
The VPN is compatible with various platforms, including iOS, Android, Windows PCs, among others. It also supports torrenting.

With the Nord, you can enjoy your online privacy and security on the go. Do you keep most of your secrets on your phone? Do you have information regarding your bank details, leisure, work, communication, etc. on your phone?

Well, use NordVPN to ensure the information is secure, whether you log-in using a public Wi-Fi or not. Are you lost on how to use a VPN on Mac for Android or iOS? Go to Google Play or Mac App Store and download the VPN app. Log in to your account. Use the quick connect button, and a special algorithm will connect you to a VPN server that suits you.

Nord VPN Pros

  •  Online Anonymity browsing
  • Enhanced security
  • Compatible with various platforms

Nord VPN Cons

  • Doesn’t offer torrenting on all servers

Are you looking for a VPN that offers a straightforward Mac VPN setup?

You can expect the best experience from CyberGhost as it is a VPN explicitly created for Mac.

With its over 7,000 servers spread over 88 countries, you can expect the best connection and internet speed.

check cyberghost

Features:

  • Kill switch to prevent data leaks
  • Superb encryption to ensure top-notch security
  • No-logs policy to ensure privacy
  • Impressive server network to ensure the best and fastest Mac VPN connection
  • Designated servers for each purpose
One feature that stands out about the VPN is its filtering system. The system allows the VPN to offer you the best server for every purpose. For instance, if you want to stream on Netflix, the VPN selects the best server connection for streaming Netflix.

Thus, it is a perfect pick if you love streaming, and you can also use it for P2P sharing.

What’s more?
CyberGhost VPN is a perfect choice for keeping your Mac safe. It offers superb bank-grade encryption to ensure that you remain anonymous as you surf even using public Wi-Fi. In terms of privacy, CyberGhost has a strict no-logs policy that ensures your data logs are not left in their servers after you disconnect.

It also comes with a kill switch to ensure that your data doesn’t leak even when there is a connection drop.

It is compatible with various gadgets, including Windows, Linux, and iOS. It allows you to unblock geo-restricted content from top brands such as Netflix, Amazon, and Hulu. In terms of payment, it offers you a variety of subscription plans to choose from that range from one month to three years.

CyberGhost VPN Pros

  •  Different payment plans
  • 45 day money-back guarantee
  • Huge server network

CyberGhost VPN Cons

  • It can be clunky

Private Internet Access is trusted by big brands, including Forbes, CBC NEWS, and Lifehacker.

It offers the best security using superb encryption to ensure you are safe even when using public Wi-Fi. It helps you to browse anonymously using a private IP address.

pia logo part

Features:

  • Tons of servers for the best speed
  • Superb encryption for anonymous browsing
  • High-speeds connection fit for streaming
  • Compatible with a variety of gadgets
  • Ability to unblock geo-restricted content
If you want a VPN service provider to help you unblock geo-restricted content, PIA is the VPN for you. It allows you to visit content from top brands, including Disney Plus, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, among others.

Additionally, it boasts of an impressive server network with over 14,168 servers in 74 countries. Therefore, you have accessibility to the fastest server in your location.
It also allows you to block ads, malware, and trackers. With the tons of servers, you can also enjoy fast P2P torrenting and downloads.

Plus, it is compatible with a range of operating systems such as macOS, Android, Linux, Windows, etc. This saves you the struggle of learning how to change VPN on Mac or other platforms. 

You can also enhance your surfing security by using it as an extension on your browser, whether you are using Firefox, Chrome, or Opera.

Private Internet Access Pros

  • Versatile
  • Safe
  • Easy to use

Private Internet Access Cons

  • Not the cheapest option

4.5/5

VyprVPN stands out from the rest by offering the most robust encryption. It gives you superb encryption for all your gadgets. It uses strong AES 256-bit and DNS leak protection, including OpenVPN, IPSec, and Chameleon.

check out vypr vpn

Features:

  • Over 700 server locations for a fast and stable connection
  • Intuitive interface for effortless use
  • Built-in kill switch to prevent data leaks
  • Lightening speed for streaming and P2P sharing
  • No-logs policy for privacy
For most of the other servers, they don’t own their server infrastructure. This raises the issue of third parties accessing your data. For VyprVPN, they own their servers and hardware. As such, you don’t have to worry about third parties accessing your logs.

The VPN also boasts of being a no-logs VPN. The audited no-logs policy ensures that nobody can see or track your traffic online.
In case your internet connection is lost, the VPN comes with a built-in kill switch that saves your data from being exposed.

If you are nervous about using VPN on Mac, VyprVPN is an excellent choice for you. It features an intuitive interface that makes using the VPN a bliss even for the novice Mac users.

It offers lightning speed for streaming, boasts over 700 server locations, and allows up to 5 simultaneous connections. 

VyprVPN Pros

  • Effortless use
  • Unlimited connections
  •  Reliable

VyprVPN Cons

  •  Limited servers compared to other VPNs

4.4/5

With PureVPN, you only need to pay for a subscription plan of choice, and you can browse the web and enjoy the best online security.

The subscription plans include a one-month plan at $10.95, an annual plan at $5 per month, and a 5-year plan at $1.65 per month. You can pay for the subscription using PayPal, Visa, etc.

check out pure vpn

Features:

  • Server network for a stable interconnection
  • Unblocking geo-restricted content
  • Compatible with a variety of gadgets
  • Various payment plane to pick your best pick
  • 24/7 customer support for any assistance
With the PureVPN, you get ten multi logins such that you can make ten simultaneous connections. This makes the VPN an excellent choice for a household with multiple Mac users.

What’s more?
With enterprise-grade security, you are assured of the most anonymous browsing and information protection. You can therefore use the VPN when surfing in a public WiFi or any other interconnection.

This VPN service provider boasts of an impressive server network with over 2000 servers in 140 countries. Therefore, you can enjoy the most stable and fast connection irrespective of where you are.

The virtual private networks also help you when you want to unblock restricted content, safeguard login details, & can access netflix. If you are in a server location with geo-restrictions, you can choose another server from another country. You will then appear like you are connecting from there and access the content.

It also stands out for its 24/7 customer support. You can use the VPN with any device that uses iOS devices, Android, Windows, etc.

PureVPN Pros

  • Suitable for popular streaming services
  •  Reliable protection
  • Affordable plans
  • User-friendly

PureVPN Cons

  •  It can take time locating the good Mac VPN server

Set up a VPN Connection on Mac

To connect to a virtual private network (VPN), you need to enter configuration settings in Network settings. These settings include the VPN server address, account name, and any authentication settings, such as a password or a certificate.

Contact the network administrator for your organization or your VPN service provider for information about the settings you need to enter in order to connect to their VPN.

If you received a VPN settings file from your network administrator or VPN service provider, you can just double-click it to set up your connection. If you didn’t, you can enter the settings manually.

View or Modify a VPN Configuration

  1. On your Mac, choose Apple menu  > System Settings, then click VPN in the sidebar. (You may need to scroll down.)
  2. On the right, click the Info button next to the VPN services you want to modify.
  3. If needed, change settings.
  4. Click OK (or Cancel if you don’t want to make any changes).

Remove a VPN Configuration

  1. On your Mac, choose Apple menu > System Settings, then click VPN in the sidebar. (You may need to scroll down.)
  2. On the right, click the Info button next to the VPN service you want to remove.
  3. Click Remove Configuration, then confirm you want to remove it.

How to Choose the Best Mac VPN Provider

There is no shortage of VPNs out there that claim to be the best for your Mac. But how do you decide which one is best for you?

The macOS operating system is famous for being user-friendly and having an intuitive interface. As such, the VPN’s usability should be a significant consideration when looking for the best VPN.

If you are a streaming enthusiast, ensure your VPN Mac has fast simultaneous connections and can unblock Netflix, Hulu, iPlayer, and other streaming services.

FAQs

Do you need a VPN on a Mac? 

Apple devices boast of an outstanding reputation for their security and stability. Even though it comes with security features that protect your Mac against malware, it cannot stop your web provider from tracking your activities online.

Plus, the security features of your operating system also can encrypt your internet traffic.

So, do you need a VPN for Mac?

Yes, you do. A VPN helps you to surf the web anonymously so that no third party can trace your web activities. If your identity is exposed, hackers might steal it and use it to commit cybercrimes.

You are also at the mercy of advertisers who will never tire of sending you pop-up ads every time you are online.

Are you still unsure that you need a VPN?

Look at it this way. You want to listen to your favorite song, but you are in a country where the content is restricted on YouTube. Would macOS users help to unblock the content? Surprisingly, a reliable VPN will do just that.

How does a Mac VPN work?

A VPN acts as a gateway between your Mac and the web. If you access websites through a VPN, your IP address is encrypted. The VPN then makes the request on your behalf using its IP rather than that of your Mac. It ensures that your IP addresses are not exposed.

Does Apple have its own VPNs for Macs?

Apple computer has its web protocols that you can turn on any time in the VPN for extra protection.

The protocols include L2TP/IPSec and IKEv2 VPN protocols. If you want to turn it on, head to the network settings and add a VPN using one of those protocols.

What’s the best free option when it comes to Mac VPNs?

If you are looking for the best VPN on Mac, but you don’t have the budget for it, the best free VPNs option would be Hotspot Shield. It offers premium Mac VPN services but with fever services and no live chat support. 

You should be cautious with using a free Mac VPN client because they limit how much you can do.

For instance, you can be limited to 500MB bandwidth per day. That is not enough if you are looking for VPN services to help you access streaming sites, torrenting, etc.

Conclusion

If you were looking for the best VPN for your Mac machine, search no more. We have a list of all the VPNs so you can pick your fit. We also have instructions on how to create a VPN on Mac and much more.

About Dusan Stanar

I'm the founder of VSS Monitoring. I have been both writing and working in technology in a number of roles for dozens of years and wanted to bring my experience online to make it publicly available. Visit https://www.vssmonitoring.com/about-us/ to read more about myself and the rest of the team.