Best VPN for Mac in 2024

Even though Mac devices are considered more secure, that doesn’t mean they don’t need extra help from a VPN. Malicious actors can breach your privacy and steal your precious data if you’re not careful enough. Additionally, Macs are not exempt from geo-blocking on various websites and streaming services.

Thankfully, a reliable Mac VPN does wonders as it encrypts your data, hides your IP address, and spoofs your location. That way, you can reliably bypass restrictions on Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and various other streaming platforms. Furthermore, you won’t have to worry about data leaks and digital threats.

I've put numerous services to the tests and extensive research to find the best Mac VPN. My testing focused on speed, security, privacy measures, and device compatibility. Check out my best Mac VPN list below for a quick sample.

Best VPN for Mac: shortlist

1. NordVPN

   The overall best VPN for Mac
   9.8
2. Surfshark VPN

   Fastest VPN for Mac and flawless streaming
   9.5
3. PrivateVPN

   Top VPN for Mac users on a budget
   8.7
4. ExpressVPN

   MacOS VPN for more security features
   8.4
5. CyberGhost VPN

   Safe VPN for Mac with specialized servers
   8.9

Do I need a VPN for Mac?

While some believe that iCloud Private Relay replaces virtual private networks, in fact, robust VPNs are still essential for MacBooks. Even though both technologies tackle similar problems, they do have different approaches and functions.

Apple's introduction of iOS 15 and macOS Monterey brought the iCloud Private Relay service to its users. In essence, this tool encrypts web-browsing traffic and hides your location, IP address, and browsing activity. This feature partially addresses the privacy concerns that VPNs deal with for more than a decade now, offering some online protection for Mac users.

However, iCloud Private Relay only works with Safari, requires an iCloud subscription, and offers no specific IP addresses or regions. This means you can't actively access region-locked content or bypass geo-restrictions for various services. For example, you won't be able to watch region-specific Netflix content or unlock its global libraries.

Features to look for in the best Mac VPN in 2024

With plenty of services out there, it's a healthy practice to look for specific features that separate the best Mac VPNs from the rest. Here are some key points to consider when checking out your options:

• AES-256 encryption. The most secure VPNs offer top-class encryption, like 256-bit AES cipher, to make your data completely unreadable for onlookers.
• Multi-Hop. This feature allows your connection to pass through multiple servers, adding an extra layer of privacy and untraceability.
• Ad and malware blockers. While adblocking is a neat bonus, malware-blocking capabilities are a substantial addition to all security-focused Mac VPNs.
• Multi-device support. Ensure the VPN can protect multiple devices simultaneously, including iPhones, iPads, and other online devices.
• Smart DNS. The Smart DNS feature is your main gateway to effortless streaming, especially if you use streaming devices that do not support VPN apps directly.
• Geo-block bypassing. Only the top VPNs for Mac are stealthy enough to bypass region restrictions placed by various online services and streaming platforms.

Best VPNs for MacBook: overview

1. NordVPN – the best VPN for Mac PCs
2. Surfshark VPN – best-value VPN for MacBook
3. PrivateVPN – affordable Mac VPN with great features
4. ExpressVPN – security-focused VPN for MacBooks
5. CyberGhost – flexible Mac VPN with loads of servers

The top VPN for Mac has to meet certain criteria. Having the essential VPN toolkit is one of them, and an expansive server fleet is another. The former ensures your online identity remains hidden under all circumstances, while the latter guarantees optimal performance anywhere.

Since I want to elevate privacy, the VPN provider shouldn’t log user data either. As for functionality, broad device compatibility, multiple simultaneous connections, and geo-block bypassing capabilities were also taken into account.

1. NordVPN – the best VPN for Mac users

NordVPN is by far the best VPN for Mac computers. It’s a top-tier provider with sturdy security features and the fastest connections, so picking NordVPN for Mac is an easy recommendation.

Security. On top of industry-standard AES encryption, NordVPN Mac application includes a kill switch feature to prevent unexpected data leaks. Additionally, the handy Threat Protection feature flawlessly removes ads and trackers while you browse online.

Speed. During our tests, we haven’t faced any noticeable speed loss while using its exclusive NordLynx protocol. Whether it's casual browsing or streaming, NordVPN delivers excellent performance on all 7000+ servers in 118 countries.

Streaming. NordVPN effortlessly grants access to global libraries of popular streaming services. Our experts easily unlocked all global libraries with Netflix, Max, Hulu, Disney+, YouTube TV, and other popular streaming platforms.

Mac application. NordVPN’s application comes in two different versions: direct from the official website or the App Store. The only notable difference is that the first one provides the full Threat Protection suite, while the latter offers the “Lite” version of the feature.

Curious to see NordVPN in action for yourself? You can snag a NordVPN coupon and score a 74% discount on your first subscription. Plus, they give you 7-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee to test it out completely risk-free for more than a month.

For a deeper investigation of NordVPN, read our NordVPN review.

2. Surfshark – highly-effective Mac VPN for a great price

Surfshark for Mac is a top-tier choice for a devoted Apple user with multiple devices. It offers limitless connections and a perfect balance between security and performance with a small price tag.

Security. Surfshark packs all security essentials, like AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, MultiHop, plus the CleanWeb feature. While testing, this ad and tracker remover effectively blocked nearly 97% of ads, including video ads on YouTube.

Speed. The wide network of 3200+ servers across 100 countries ensures that users always have a nearby server for optimal performance. Thanks to the implementation of the WireGuard tunneling protocol and Nexus technology, Surfshark also delivers blazing speeds for all your online needs.

Streaming. Whether it's BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, YouTube TV, or other popular services, Surfshark provides seamless access to a wide range of platforms. Additionally, the Smart DNS feature enables streaming on devices that don't natively support VPNs, such as smart TVs and gaming consoles.

Mac application. The Surfshark app from the App Store lacks a few features on Mac that are available on other devices, such as NoBorders for bypassing government restrictions and split tunneling. However, you can achieve similar results using Surfshark’s browser extensions.

Surfshark is already one of the best value Mac VPNs, but you can save even more by using available promo codes for an additional 86% discount. You can also test the waters with a free 7-day trial and a month-long cash-back guarantee.

For a deeper investigation of Surfshark VPN, read our Surfshark VPN review.

3. PrivateVPN – fast & cheap Mac VPN

If you’re looking for an efficient Mac VPN that’s also light on the wallet, then PrivateVPN might be just for you. In fact, it’s one of the cheapest ways to protect not only your MacBook but also all your iOS devices with 10 simultaneous connections.

Security. Even as a budget option, PrivateVPN is equipped with AES-256 encryption and a functional kill switch, making it ideal for secure browsing on public Wi-Fi networks. It also includes a Stealth Mode for better geo-block bypassing and port forwarding for P2P connections.

Speed. While PrivateVPN may not be the fastest VPN for Mac, it uses the next-gen WireGuard protocol and shows remarkable results for simple everyday browsing needs. You also get 200+ servers in 63 countries, so finding a nearby connection for optimal speeds shouldn’t be a problem.

Streaming. Our tests showed that it successfully unblocked select region-blocked content, including Netflix US, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu. However, accessing Disney+ and Max required multiple attempts from different servers.

Mac application. PrivateVPN for Mac is designed with simplicity and efficiency in mind. Its user-friendly interface allows for easy connection, disconnection, and easy access to settings.

While this service is already cheap on its own, you can get even better PrivateVPN deals of up to 85% off. Plus, you can take it for a spin with a 7-day free trial, and continue onward protected with a 30-day money-back insurance.

For a deeper investigation of PrivateVPN, read our PrivateVPN review.

4. ExpressVPN – macOS VPN with extra Wi-Fi security

Many online privacy advocates recommend ExpressVPN for Mac computers, and for a good reason. This service is really fast, highly secure, and offers all the features the best VPN for MacBook Pro could ever need.

Security. Operating under privacy-friendly British Virgin Islands jurisdiction, ExpressVPN enforces a court-proven no-logs policy. To top that off, you also get high-end AES encryption, obfuscated servers for undetectable VPN usage, and Threat Manager ad & malware filter.

Speed. All ExpressVPN servers through 105 countries are seriously fast, courtesy of exclusive Lightway tunneling protocol. Unsurprisingly, all of our tests, including streaming, gaming, and downloading, showed no significant speed loss on our internet connection.

Streaming. ExpressVPN is a smart choice for streaming on your Mac. It easily unlocks numerous Netflix libraries, Hulu, Disney+, Max, BBC iPlayer, and many more region-exclusive streaming platforms.

Mac application. The super minimalistic and sleek ExpressVPN app is nearly identical on both macOS and Windows, with two exceptions. Only Mac, iOS, and Linux users are treated with the Threat Manager, while the split tunneling feature is missing on all Apple devices.

It’s true that ExpressVPN is a premium-priced service, but you can tip the value scales using any of the current ExpressVPN deals to score a 48% discount. And in case you want to back out, you can easily do so with a 30-day money-back guarantee with no strings attached.

For a deeper investigation of ExpressVPN, read our ExpressVPN review.

5. CyberGhost – Mac VPN with large server network

If you’re after the most flexible and versatile tools, then picking CyberGhost VPN for Mac will not disappoint you. Its compelling package includes sturdy security, loads of specialty servers, and truly reliable geo-block bypassing capabilities.

Security. Aside from standard features like advanced encryption or an always-on kill switch, this Mac VPN promises complete user anonymity with an independently audited zero-logs policy. Additional neat features include Content Blocker (a built-in adblocker) and obfuscated NoSpy servers.

Speed. Thanks to WireGuard protocol, CyberGhost is known for high speeds and secure tunneling on all 11700+ servers in 100 countries. As such, even when testing heavier bandwidth loads, the download speed retention never dropped below 80%.

Streaming. CyberGhost offers specialized servers for optimized streaming and bypassing region restrictions on platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Max, BBC iPlayer, or YouTube TV. And if you want to extend these benefits to other devices that don’t support CyberGhost natively, Smart DNS will take care of that too.

Mac application. The interface neatly presents all the features on the left side, while the server list with load indicators is conveniently located in the middle of the page.

Protecting your Mac doesn't have to be pricey, especially if you catch the latest CyberGhost deals to get it 84% off. Start risk-free today with a 45-day money-back guarantee and try it yourself.

For a deeper investigation of CyberGhost VPN, read our CyberGhost VPN review.

Best VPN apps for Mac: comparison

After reading that much information about the best VPNs for Mac, your head is probably spinning. If you’re having a hard time to decide which provider to choose, I created a side-by-side comparison for the top Mac VPNs:

During my research, NordVPN performed the best, so it's the best VPN for Mac. The service is extremely fast (452 Mbps), offers heaps of servers, and offered amazing features for MacOS, such as Meshnet, Threat Protection, and Dark Web Monitor.

How we tested VPNs for Mac?

My test environment was set on a Macbook Pro 2023 with a 10-core Apple M2 Pro processor, 16 GB RAM, running macOS Sonoma 14.2.1. Throughout the tests, I focused on multiple aspects, such as security and privacy features, technical prowess, and user experience. Here are all of my key criteria for the best VPN for Mac:

• Examining security features. At the very least, a reliable Mac VPN should have AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, and IP & DNS leak protection. Not to mention, I took additional features like split tunneling, malware blocks, and Multi-Hop into consideration.
• Checking their logging policies. Ideally, a safe VPN for MacBook should be independently audited by a third party. Plus, virtual private networks should be based outside Fourteen Eyes jurisdiction.
• Testing their speeds. Each Mac VPN went through an extensive speed test. Services with the WireGuard and NordLynx tunneling protocols performed the best.
• Investigating server fleets. A top-tier VPN for Macs should have plenty of servers globally to avoid overcrowding and slow speeds. Moreover, having enormous global reach also lets you unblock a broader spectrum of foreign services.
• Analyzing prices. Even though most Apple apps and services cost a pretty penny, that’s not the case with top VPNs. You can find a high-end, cheap VPN that won’t burn a hole through your pocket.
• Evaluating customer service. Even the best Mac VPN services can come across the occasional performance issue. In such cases, it’s good to have 24/7 live chat customer support for a quick and easy fix.
• Making sure it’s compatible. I avoided any VPNs that don’t work with Macbooks. Additionally, I tested their ease of use and overall performance on both Mac and iOS devices.

How to setup a VPN on Macbook?

So, now you know everything there is to know about the best Mac VPN software, and you’ve chosen a provider that you would like to go with. Thus, now is the time to set up the app and reap its benefits. In this example, I’ll show you how to install NordVPN on your Mac. However, the process shouldn’t vary much with other providers.

1. Pick a reliable Mac VPN. My frontrunner is NordVPN, currently with a massive 74% discount
2. Choose a subscription and payment option
3. Set up the app, launch it, and sign in
4. Join a server of your choice. For better connectivity pick one nearby
5. Now you’re safe, private, and able to punch through geo-blocks!
   

Visit NordVPN

How to download VPN on MacBook via Apple App Store

Another route for getting VPN software for Mac is by downloading it from a reliable source – the Apple App Store. Here’s how you get it:

1. Open the Apple App Store on your computer
2. Search for the appropriate VPN application distributed by your chosen service. I highly recommend NordVPN – the best VPN for macOS
3. Click on the Download button, and press Open after
4. Fill in your login credentials
5. Now choose a server and enjoy your safe browsing experience!

How to install VPN on MacBook via provider’s website

1. Subscribe to a top-grade VPN. NordVPN offers robust security features and some of the best speeds in the industry.
2. Head to the provider’s official website and navigate to the downloads section
3. Select your OS version and download the appropriate file
4. Once the download is complete, install the application on your Mac by following the instructions on the screen
5. After the installation is complete, open the app, and log into your account
6. Connect to any server you want, and you’re done!

What can I do with a VPN for MacBook?

A virtual private network for Mac is a great way to protect your data and stay confidential while surfing the web. Additionally, a VPN is responsible for redirecting your internet connection through a remote server in a different location.

In the process, a Mac VPN can help you out with other, more entertaining web activities:

• Explore new streaming platforms & content libraries. Changing your location with a VPN can get you more movies and shows on Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, and more. Plus, platforms like BBC iPlayer, Hulu, or YouTube TV will be available to you globally.
• Torrent without major risks. I do not condone piracy, but I want you to be safe. So, to avoid data leaks, security breaches, malware, or financial losses, a Mac VPN is a perfect tool to prevent all of that. Not to mention, it can boost your download speeds if you know how to use VPN on MacBook correctly.
• Spend less while shopping online. The prices you see on the web depend on your location, browsing history, and even gender or age. So, if you want to see better and unbiased costs, simply spoof your location! That way, you can obtain cheaper flight tickets, subscriptions, or other services.
• Enjoy free internet globally. Whether you’re traveling to a highly restricted country or live in one, the best VPN for Mac will punch through firewalls and give you entrance to loads of websites and content globally.

Best VPN for MacBook: video review

If you’re here, you’re either an avid reader or couldn’t be bothered to go through all of the information. If the latter statement is true, check out this best VPN for Mac review:

What are the best free VPNs for Mac?

I advise against using completely free Mac VPNs because of their low effectiveness and disregard for your online privacy. Many of them collect and often sell your data to third parties, on top of lacking even essential security features. Moreover, free VPNs provide slower speeds, fewer servers, and ridiculous data caps. And if that’s not enough, some providers go as far as riddling your devices with malware.

While freemium VPNs can be a solid substitute, the best and safest choice you can make are premium free-trial VPNs. For instance, top VPNs for Mac, such as NordVPN, effectively bypass all restrictions and protect your online privacy, all without costing you a dime. Also, combining the free trial with its 30-day money-back guarantee lets you enjoy the same features as the paid version for more than a month.

Try NordVPN free for 7 days

Does Mac have a built-in VPN?

Macs do not have a built-in VPN. The closest feature to it is Private Relay – it’s a mere proxy service, only available on iOS devices. It lacks many features the top MacOS providers and even VPNs for iPhones have.

While Private Relay encrypts your connection and hides your IP address, you won’t be able to choose a server in another country for geo-spoofing. What’s more, Netflix and other streaming services will remain blocked. Last but not least, you won’t be getting extra security and privacy features, such as Multi-hop, Tor over VPN, or Stealth VPN.

Bottom line

While Mac devices are less susceptible to conventional viruses and malware, data breaches and leaks are still a considerable threat. That’s why it’s crucial to take matters into your own hands and elevate the security of your Apple computer.

VPNs are the perfect tools for enhancing the protection of macOS, and after rigorous testing, I found that NordVPN is best VPN for Macs. It works flawlessly with macOS, packs the most advanced security features, and offers the fastest connections thanks to the NordLynx protocol. Furthermore, accessing geo-restricted content and keeping your online communications private are great benefits as well.

Which VPN do you use to secure your Apple devices? Share your preferences by leaving a comment!

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You may also like to read:
Best free VPNs for Mac
How to change Netflix region
Best VPN for Apple TV
How to get Spotify Premium cheaper
How to change country on Apple App Store

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FAQ

What VPN works best with Mac?

The best VPN for Mac is NordVPN. It adheres to an independently-audited no-logs policy, is based in privacy-friendly Panama, and is packed with lots of security features. Not to mention, it’s perfect for torrenting and streaming.

How do I get a VPN on Mac?

You can get a VPN for Mac from a provider's website or the Apple App Store. After that, sign up, launch the app, and choose a server. A reliable service should start working instantly.

How to change VPN on MacBook?

To set up a VPN connection on your Mac, start by going to “System Preferences”. Then, select “Network”, and click on “Add VPN Configuration” from the Action pop-up menu. Choose the new VPN type and provide a name for the new Mac VPN service.