Best Mac VPNs In 2024
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Macs are no less vulnerable to cybersecurity threats—such as malware, viruses, and ransomware—than their competitors. A virtual private network (VPN) can help keep your Mac and personal data safe by cloaking your IP address and rerouting your internet use through different servers.
Here are the best Mac VPN options in 2024. We analyzed Mac-compatible VPNs across a variety of data points to present the seven best options.
- Featured Partner
- Best VPN Software for Mac
- NordVPN
- TorGuard VPN
- ProtonVPN
- Private Internet Access (PIA)
- hide.me
- Surfshark
- Comparison of Best VPNs for Mac in 2024
- How Does a Mac VPN Work?
- Why Mac Owners Should Use VPNs
- How To Choose the Best Mac VPN
- Methodology: How Do We Choose the Best VPN for Mac
- How To Maintain Fast Speeds with a VPN
- Bottom Line
- Next Up In Business
Featured Partners
1
NordVPN
Lowest Monthly Price
INR 329.07 ($3.99) + 3 months free
Money Back Guarantee
30 days
No. of Servers
5,000+
2
Surfshark
Lowest Monthly Price
INR 197.29 + one month free
Money Back Guarantee
30 days
No. of Servers
3,200+
3
Private Internet Access
Lowest Monthly Price
INR 158.89
No. of Devices
Unlimited
No. of Servers
30,000+
Best VPN Software for Mac
- NordVPN: Best overall
- TorGuard VPN: Best for anonymity
- ProtonVPN: Best free plan
- Private Internet Access: Best for tech-savvy users
- hide.me: Best for gaming
- Surfshark: Best for beginners
BEST OVERALL
NordVPN
Starting Price
INR 418.99 ($4.99) p/m (billed annually)
Number of VPN Server Locations
111 countries
Number of Servers
6,293
Starting Price
INR 418.99 ($4.99) p/m (billed annually)
Number of VPN Server Locations
111 countries
Number of Servers
6,293
NordVPN is a well-established VPN service that is perfect for users seeking privacy. It uses the IKEv2/IPsec security protocol with 256-bit AES encryption and offers a host of features, including an automatic kill switch, ad and malware blocking, and Onion over VPN.
The company has an extensive server network, with over 6,293 servers in 111 countries. NordVPN is headquartered in Panama, which is not part of the FVEY agreement. With NordVPN, you can connect up to six devices simultaneously.
Who should use it:
NordVPN is a great choice for users who want comprehensive privacy features and a large server network.
Read more: NordVPN Review
- Protects up to six devices simultaneously
- Offers student and youth discounts
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Not headquartered in a FVEY country
- Can slow your device
BEST FOR ANONYMITY
TorGuard VPN
Starting Price
INR 460.98 ($5.49) p/m (billed annually)
Number of VPN Server Locations
50 countries
Number of Servers
3,000
Starting Price
INR 460.98 ($5.49) p/m (billed annually)
Number of VPN Server Locations
50 countries
Number of Servers
3,000
TorGuard VPN stands out as a solid option for Mac users who value both security and speed. This expansive network offers 3,000 servers in over 50 countries.
Privacy is at the forefront of TorGuard’s offerings, as it assigns an anonymous VPN IP to users, effectively hiding their actual IP addresses. This helps protect against third-party tracking, which can be beneficial for those participating in P2P file sharing or trying to access geo-restricted content.
Another notable aspect of TorGuard is its Stealth VPN feature, which masks VPN traffic to resemble regular web traffic. This is especially useful for users in locations with heavy internet censorship or for bypassing firewalls and deep packet inspections. With 24/7 assistance available, users can quickly resolve any technical issues they encounter.
Who should use it:
Mac users who want a private IP address.
- Offers anonymous IP
- 24/7 support
- Great for torrenting
- Kill switch
- Leak blocking
- Only 7-day money-back guarantee, which is much shorter than the competition’s 30-days
BEST FREE PLAN
ProtonVPN
Starting Price
Free; or INR 418.99 ($4.99) p/m (billed annually)
Number of VPN Server Locations
112 countries
Number of Servers
8,162
Starting Price
Free; or INR 418.99 ($4.99) p/m (billed annually)
Number of VPN Server Locations
112 countries
Number of Servers
8,162
As a Swiss-based VPN service, ProtonVPN operates under strict privacy laws and maintains a no-logs policy. Users can trust that their online activities won’t be tracked or recorded.
Offering over 8,162 in 112 countries, ProtonVPN provides a fast and reliable connection for users around the globe. Open-source technology provides transparency and security since anyone can look at the code to guarantee its accuracy. ProtonVPN is suitable for users with multiple devices, as it can simultaneously support up to 10 devices.
ProtonVPN’s Secure Core architecture adds another layer of protection by routing traffic through multiple servers before it leaves the network. This helps defend against network-based attacks and keeps users’ actual IP addresses hidden. With features such as NetShield Ad-blocker, users can also browse the internet ad-free and avoid malware and trackers. ProtonVPN is an ideal choice for Mac users who seek a privacy-focused, secure, and reliable VPN service.
Learn more: Proton VPN review.
Who should use it:
While its free plan only has 100 servers, it doesn’t have ads and provides unlimited bandwidth, making it a solid option for those looking for a free Mac VPN.
- Swiss-based (Five Eyes)
- Open source
- Free plan doesn’t have ads like most other free VPNs
- Unlimited bandwidth
- Servers in only three countries with its free plan
BEST FOR TECH-SAVVY USERS
Private Internet Access (PIA)
Starting Price
INR 250.83 p/m (billed annually)
Number of VPN Server Locations
91 countries
Number of Servers
Undisclosed
Starting Price
INR 250.83 p/m (billed annually)
Number of VPN Server Locations
91 countries
Number of Servers
Undisclosed
Private Internet Access is perfect for tech-savvy users who are looking for an affordable, reliable VPN. It’s compatible with Mac and can simultaneously connect to ten different devices. It offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, 24/7 support, unlimited bandwidth, and open-source apps.
PIA doesn’t disclose how many servers it has, but it offers a comprehensive network in 91 countries and lightning-fast speeds. It also provides advanced split tunneling, ad and malware blocking, a dedicated IP, and automation rules.
Who should use it:
Private Internet Access is an ideal choice for tech-savvy users who are looking for an affordable VPN with fast speeds.
Read more: Private Internet Access Review
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Open source software
- 24/7 customer support
- PIA is in a FVEY country (although it’s not concerned)
- Coding knowledge required to reap full benefits
BEST FOR GAMING
hide.me
Starting Price
Free; or INR 377.01 ($4.49) p/m (billed annually)
Number of VPN Server Locations
91 locations
Number of Servers
2,600
Starting Price
Free; or INR 377.01 ($4.49) p/m (billed annually)
Number of VPN Server Locations
91 locations
Number of Servers
2,600
With its advanced security features, fast connection speeds, and user-friendly interface, hide.me stands out from other VPNs. The Multihop Double VPN is a key aspect of the service, offering enhanced privacy and flexibility by allowing users to tunnel their connection through multiple servers. This is particularly useful for bypassing censorship and surveillance in regions where VPN access is restricted or blocked.
Another advantage of hide.me is its strict no-logs policy, ensuring user activity remains private and anonymous. The service offers a network of more than 2,600 servers across 91-plus locations, with each server supporting 10 Gbps speeds. This expansive network ensures that users can find a reliable connection regardless of their location.
Who should use it:
Gamers who want a fast, secure connection will enjoy using hide.me.
- It’s fast
- Multi-hop
- Offers a free version
- Based in Malaysia
- Its free version has limited servers
BEST FOR BEGINNERS
Surfshark
Starting Price
INR 251.06 ($2.99) p/m (billed annually)
Number of VPN Server Locations
100 countries
Number of Servers
3,200
Starting Price
INR 251.06 ($2.99) p/m (billed annually)
Number of VPN Server Locations
100 countries
Number of Servers
3,200
Surfshark is a relative newcomer to the VPN market, but it’s quickly gaining a following because of its impressive security features, ease of use, and low price. Not only does it work for Mac, but it also offers a wide range of devices that you can use with it, including routers.
The company boasts an extensive server network with more than 3,200 servers in 100 countries. Split tunneling allows websites and apps to bypass Surfshark, making it easy to move slow-moving traffic off a VPN while protecting other traffic.
Who should use it:
Surfshark is a great choice for anyone who wants a VPN that’s affordable and easy to use.
Read more: Surfshark Review
- Unlimited devices
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- No-logs policy
- Mobile connection can be slow
- Price increases at renewal
Comparison of Best VPNs for Mac in 2024
Plans and pricing of VPNs for MacOS are accurate as of Oct. 9, 2024
How Does a Mac VPN Work?
A Mac VPN encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through a remote server. This makes it difficult for anyone to track or spy on your online activity. A VPN also hides your IP address, which prevents websites from tracking your location.
Why Mac Owners Should Use VPNs
When you connect to the internet without a VPN, your traffic is not encrypted. This means that your ISP, government, and anyone else can see what you’re doing online. A VPN encrypts your traffic, which makes it much more difficult for anyone to spy on your online activity.
In addition to increased security, a VPN also allows you to access geo-blocked content. For example, if you’re trying to watch a show that’s only available in India UK, you can use a VPN to connect to a server in India UK and access the content that way.
Benefits of a VPN for Macbook
Several reasons Mac users might want to use a VPN, including increased security and privacy, also apply to users of Windows machines. Macbook users get all the benefits a VPN provider offers for general internet browsing, accessing geo-restricted content, increased security while gaming, streaming videos, etc. VPN keeps your data private from your internet provider, adding more security for businesses whose employees work remotely to access company servers from home.
Featured Partners
1
NordVPN
Lowest Monthly Price
INR 329.07 ($3.99) + 3 months free
Money Back Guarantee
30 days
No. of Servers
5,000+
2
Surfshark
Lowest Monthly Price
INR 197.29 + one month free
Money Back Guarantee
30 days
No. of Servers
3,200+
3
Private Internet Access
Lowest Monthly Price
INR 158.89
No. of Devices
Unlimited
No. of Servers
30,000+
How To Choose the Best Mac VPN
A virtual private network (VPN) is an essential tool for anyone using a Mac who wants to safeguard their internet activity. With so many options available, choosing the best Mac VPN can be overwhelming. We’ll break down what you need to know.
Key Features
- No logs: Through a strict no-logs policy, the VPN provider does not store any details about your online activities, making it impossible for them to hand over your data to any other entities or government agencies.
- Kill switch: If the VPN connection drops, it’ll disconnect you from the internet. This feature prevents accidental exposure of your IP address and other sensitive information.
- API load balancing: API load balancing helps distribute traffic across multiple servers, ensuring optimal performance and minimizing the chances of server overload or downtime.
- Server availability: The number and geographical distribution of servers impact the VPN’s ability to provide fast and reliable connections. A more extensive server network allows for better access to global content and reduced latency.
- Encryption: To protect your data and maintain your privacy, you should use strong encryption, such as AES-256. Look for a VPN provider that employs industry-standard encryption protocols.
- DNS leak protection: This feature prevents your DNS requests from being exposed to your ISP, ensuring that your browsing history remains private even if the VPN connection fails.
- IPv6 support: IPv6 support helps future-proof your VPN by providing compatibility with the latest internet protocol version, which is gradually replacing the older IPv4 standard.
- Multidevice compatibility: Ensure that the VPN supports simultaneous connections on multiple devices, allowing you to protect all your devices with a single subscription.
- User-friendly interface: A well-designed, intuitive interface makes it easy for users to configure and use the VPN, regardless of their technical expertise.
Speed
When looking for a VPN, don’t let it slow your internet too much. Distance from the VPN server and the amount of traffic on that server can affect the speed of a VPN connection. If you use a VPN, your data has to go a longer distance to get to its destination, resulting in a slower loading time for web pages or downloading of files than if you weren’t using a VPN at all.
To test the speed of your VPN connection, you can use a website such as Speedtest.net or Fast.com. These websites will show you how fast your internet connection is with and without the VPN. If the difference in speed is too big, try a different VPN provider.
It’s essential to keep in mind that VPN providers might not always be truthful about their speed. They might advertise at a faster speed than you actually get. That’s why it’s a good idea to test the speed yourself before signing up for a VPN.
When selecting a VPN provider, ensure it offers fast speeds without compromising security. You also want to make sure it has servers in locations close to you and offers specialized servers for things such as streaming or gaming. Testing the speed of your VPN connection before committing to a provider can help you ensure it meets your needs.
Cross-platform Use and macOS Compatibility
When choosing a Mac VPN, look for a provider that offers native macOS compatibility. A VPN explicitly designed for macOS will offer seamless integration with your device’s features and settings, providing a smoother user experience. Look for a VPN that supports other platforms, such as Windows, Android, and iOS. Cross-platform support allows you to secure multiple devices under a single subscription, providing comprehensive protection for your entire digital ecosystem. Having browser extensions for web browsers such as Chrome, Firefox, and Safari is also helpful in improving your online security and privacy.
Cost
The cost of a Mac VPN can vary significantly between providers, with many factors influencing the price. You can expect to pay between INR 415.87 ($5) and INR 831.75 ($10) per month for a Mac VPN. Your cost depends on the VPN provider, its features, and your contract terms. You’ll pay less for agreeing to a multi-year contract, whereas it’s not unusual to pay 831.75 ($10) to INR 1164.45 ($14) per month on a month-to-month basis.
Here are some aspects to consider when evaluating the cost of a VPN:
- Contract length: Many VPN providers offer discounts for more extended subscription plans. While a monthly subscription might be more expensive, opting for an annual or multi-year plan can result in significant savings. As soon as you sign up, test out your VPN. Many offer 30-day money-back guarantees, though some are as short as seven days, so you’ll want to test it in a variety of circumstances to ensure it meets your needs.
- Features: The price of a VPN can be influenced by the range of features it offers, including server locations, simultaneous connections, and advanced security features such as a kill switch and split tunneling. More feature-rich VPNs might come with a higher price tag, but the additional functionalities can be well worth the investment.
- Promotions: VPN providers often run promotions, offering discounted rates for new subscribers. Look for seasonal sales, holiday discounts, or special offers to save on your VPN subscription.
- Bundles: Some VPN providers offer discounted bundles that include other services, such as password managers or secure cloud storage. These bundles can be a cost-effective way to secure multiple aspects of your digital life.
- Free options: While free VPNs might seem appealing, they often come with limitations, such as reduced server access, slower speeds, and lower levels of security. Some free VPNs may need to be more trustworthy, as they may collect and sell your data to third parties. It’s generally recommended to invest in a reputable paid VPN service to ensure comprehensive protection and reliable performance.
When choosing a Mac VPN, it’s essential to weigh the cost against the features and level of protection offered. While saving money is essential, prioritizing security and privacy should be your primary goal. It’s better to invest in a reliable, feature-rich VPN service that offers a fair price than to compromise your online safety with a free or low-quality option.
Customer Support
Reliable customer support is an essential factor when choosing a Mac VPN. Even the best VPN services can occasionally encounter issues or require assistance with setup and configuration. A responsive, knowledgeable customer support team can make all the difference in resolving problems quickly and efficiently.
Look for the following:
- Availability: Look for a provider with 24/7 customer support, ensuring assistance is available whenever you need it.
- Contact options: Multiple contact methods, such as live chat, email, and support tickets, offer flexibility in addressing your concerns.
- Knowledge base: An extensive library of material, including FAQs, manuals, and tutorials, can provide you with the information you need to deal with any problems you may have and become more familiar with the VPN’s capabilities.
- Response time: Prompt response times are crucial for resolving issues quickly. Check user reviews and testimonials to gauge the provider’s reputation for responsiveness and helpfulness.
Methodology: How Do We Choose the Best VPN for Mac
To compile our list of the best VPNs for Macs, Forbes Advisor scrutinized 33 factors to identify the top options for Mac users. Our evaluation process involved examining several aspects and weighting them according to their significance, with the most emphasis placed on security features and speeds.
Pricing
We awarded higher scores to contenders that offered the most features for their price points. We took note of the lowest and highest price points, and platforms with money-back guarantees or free trials received bonus points for delivering additional value to users. These criteria make up 15% of the score.
General and Additional Features
We studied each VPN’s general features, such as anonymous browsing, DNS protection measures, dedicated IP, kill switch, split tunneling, and multifactor authentication, as well as additional features, such as the number of continents with servers, no-logs policy, browser extensions, and simultaneous connections. This array of features contributes 35% of each provider’s score.
Speed
A reliable VPN should securely encrypt your data without sacrificing speed, ensuring a smooth browsing experience that doesn’t compromise safety. The Forbes Advisor team tests speeds weekly to evaluate this score, which accounts for 20% of the total.
Customer Service
We assigned top marks to companies offering 24/7 customer support across multiple channels, recognizing that users may face issues with their VPN connection at any time and require prompt assistance. Some VPN providers also have community-based support, such as a Reddit forum, where users can access community help. Support services are worth 7% of the total score.
App Ratings and Customer Reviews
We assessed the App Store ratings for each VPN’s desktop app, along with customer reviews on Trustpilot, Capterra, and G2. Analyzing star rating review numbers and balancing public opinion accordingly helped us determine each VPN’s overall customer experience and satisfaction levels. These reviews make up 13% of each provider’s score.
Forbes Advisor Expert Score
Lastly, we added the Forbes Advisor Expert Score for each VPN, including details and standout features, value for money, popularity, and ease of use. We also considered our own experiences and scores from other experts to compare and validate our rankings. This analysis contributes to the final 10% of the score.
How to Setup VPN on Macbook?
You can set up a VPN on a Mac by either downloading a dedicated VPN app from the provider’s website or manually configuring the VPN in your Mac’s network settings. You can visit the VPN provider’s website, select the plan, and install the application on a Mac. You may also use the App Store to download your favorite VPN app. For more information, read our guide on how to set up a VPN on a Macbook.
How To Maintain Fast Speeds with a VPN
A fast VPN should provide download speeds of at least 50 Mbps and upload speeds of 20 Mbps or more. These speeds are generally sufficient for most online activities, including HD video streaming and large file downloads. Faster speeds mean better user experiences, especially for those on high-speed connections.
To maintain fast speeds while using a VPN, consider the following:
- Choose a VPN with an extensive server network: A VPN with a vast server network can distribute user traffic more efficiently, reducing the likelihood of server congestion and slow speeds.
- Connect to a nearby server: The closer you are to the VPN server, the lower the latency and the faster the connection. Selecting a server in your country or a neighboring country can help improve speeds.
- Use a VPN with WireGuard or similar protocols: WireGuard is a cutting-edge VPN protocol that offers faster speeds and improved performance compared to older protocols such as OpenVPN and IKEv2. Many top VPN providers now support WireGuard or have developed their high-speed protocols.
- Test different servers: If you’re experiencing slow speeds, try connecting to a different server. Some servers may be less congested or offer better routing to your destination, resulting in faster speeds.
- Check your base internet speed: Your VPN speeds can’t exceed your base internet connection speed. Ensure you have a fast internet connection to make the most of your VPN’s capabilities.
How to Maintain Fast Speeds with Mac VPN?
It’s important to note that using a VPN can sometimes result in slower internet speeds. This is because your data must travel through the VPN server, which can add latency and decrease speed. The level of speed reduction largely depends on the VPN provider, server distance, and network congestion.
Some VPNs also implement bandwidth throttling, intentionally limiting users’ connection speeds to manage server load or encourage users to upgrade to a higher-priced plan. However, many top-tier VPNs prioritize providing fast and stable connections without throttling. Take a close look at a provider’s rules around this functionality when making your decision.
Bottom Line
Remember, using a VPN doesn’t always guarantee secure internet connectivity. You should regularly monitor your VPN’s performance and set up features according to your preference. Most VPNs come with a dashboard highlighting your internet speed according to the servers available. Also, it’s best to monitor your VPN usage for any potential leaks.
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