Once a vibrant hub for unrestricted online access, Hong Kong now faces increasing online challenges due to political developments and censorship measures. Whether you’re a resident, a visitor, or a business owner in Hong Kong, these changes can significantly impact your online experience. However, there’s a powerful tool that can help you reclaim your online freedom and security: the best VPN for Hong Kong.
Hong Kong residents and visitors are confronted with several online hurdles. The most prominent among these challenges is the gradual loss of online privacy. With the introduction of stringent national security laws, online surveillance has become more pervasive, leaving personal data vulnerable to prying eyes.
Moreover, many popular websites and social media platforms have faced restrictions or outright bans in Hong Kong, limiting access to vital information and communication channels. Similarly, people traveling abroad could not access local content without a Hong Kong IP address.
This is where a VPN comes to the rescue. By routing your internet connection through a secure server in a different region, a VPN shields your online activities from surveillance and allows you to access geo-restricted content.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best VPNs tailored to Hong Kong’s unique challenges, helping you navigate the digital landscape with confidence and peace of mind.
Quick Overview: Best VPN for Hong Kong 2024
Here’s a quick overview of the best VPN for Hong Kong tested in 2024:
- ExpressVPN: Best VPN for Hong Kong users seeking both speed and security. It boasts lightning-fast speeds and robust security features, ensuring a seamless and protected online experience.
- Surfshark: Budget-friendly VPN for Hong Kong. It combines strong privacy protections with the unique advantage of allowing unlimited device connections, making it a cost-effective choice for families and businesses.
- NordVPN: Most secure VPN for Hong Kong. It stands out for its enhanced security features, including double encryption and the CyberSec feature, which guards against online threats.
- CyberGhost: User-friendly VPN for Hong Kong, offering a user-friendly interface with one-click solutions for secure and anonymous web browsing.
- Private Internet Access (PIA): Reliable VPN for Hong Kong. It is distinguished by its strong commitment to privacy, with a strict no-logs policy and advanced encryption protocols. This makes it a solid option for privacy-conscious users in Hong Kong.
Best VPNs for Hong Kong – at a Glance
Here is a side-by-side comparison of the best VPN for Hong Kong:
Why do you need a VPN in Hong Kong?
When in Hong Kong, whether as a resident or a visitor, the concern of government surveillance looms large. The security of your internet activities can’t be guaranteed without the use of a VPN to hide your IP address. However, it’s crucial to choose wisely, as not all VPNs offer the requisite privacy protection.
What to look for in a VPN for Hong Kong?
Secure file sharing
For swift and protected file sharing, opt for a specialized P2P server. This choice ensures your data remains hidden from external parties while maintaining your connection speed without compromise.
Hide your VPN connection
Upon connecting to our Obfuscated server, your internet traffic and even the use of a VPN are concealed, offering an extra layer of privacy and discretion.
Offers location for the best speed
To ensure the fastest connection speed, choose a server in the closest region. With over 70 VPN servers based in Hong Kong, you’ll always have access to a nearby option to guarantee the best possible speed.
Offers extra security
Utilizing a Double VPN specialty server means your IP address is altered twice, and your data traffic receives an additional encryption layer, rendering it extremely challenging for anyone to breach your data security.
Provides a dedicated IP
Request a static IP address exclusively for your use. Simply select your preferred country, and we’ll make all the necessary arrangements.
Can bypass Internet censorship
Securing your data from cybercriminals is as simple as a single click. Hit the Quick Connect button on any device and enjoy worry-free internet browsing.
5 Best VPNs for Hong Kong – Detail Analysis
After testing 45+ VPN services, we finally came down to five providers we deem best for online security in Hong Kong. Let’s discuss them in detail:
1. ExpressVPN – Best VPN for Hong Kong
Key Features:
- Offers 3000+ servers in 105+ countries, including two server locations in Hong Kong
- Encryption is done through 256-bit encryption standards
- Follows a strict no-log policy
- Threat Manager for added security
- MediaStreamer feature for greater accessibility across all devices
ExpressVPN stands out as the best VPN for Hong Kong, offering a comprehensive set of features tailored to address the country’s unique digital challenges.
Server locations
According to the ExpressVPN Server list in Hong Kong, they boasts a vast and strategically located server network of 3000servers in 105+ countries, including 2 server locations in Hong Kong
Security
ExpressVPN confidently responds to the question, Is ExpressVPN Safe in Hong Kong? It offers robust security and privacy safeguards to protect users from online threats. It provides a comprehensive suite of security tools, including the ExpressVPN Kill Switch, a strict no-logging policy, DNS and IP leak protection, and AES 256-bit encryption.
Additionally, the ExpressVPN Split Tunneling feature balances security and user convenience, establishing it as a preferred choice for VPN users in Hong Kong.
Independently audited
ExpressVPN sets itself apart with a firm commitment to transparency and security, as evidenced by independent audits that validate its no-log policy and solid data protection measures. These third-party verifications provide users with added assurance, highlighting ExpressVPN’s dedication to maintaining user privacy and enhancing the credibility of its services.
Streaming
For Hong Kong residents and visitors seeking unrestricted access to global content, I evaluated the capabilities of the ExpressVPN media streamer in Hong Kong. It efficiently bypasses geo-restrictions, allowing users to access blocked websites, streaming services, and social media platforms.
This capability is invaluable for those looking to stay connected and access information freely, even in the face of increasing censorship measures. With ExpressVPN, we could easily access popular streaming sites such as BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and Amazon Prime. Plus, you can easily watch Netflix with ExpressVPN in Hong Kong.
Speed test
As for speed, ExpressVPN speed test delivered exceptional speed, ensuring seamless streaming, lag-free gaming, and rapid downloads. On a 100 Mbps connection, it managed to achieve a download speed of 89.42 Mbps and an upload speed of 84.64 Mbps.
Ease of Use
ExpressVPN supports simultaneous connections for up to 8 devices, enabling easy subscription sharing among friends and family. It’s compatible with all primary operating systems like Linux, iOS, FireOS, Windows, and macOS. ExpressVPN excels in router performance and offers seamless compatibility across various devices, including PCs, Roku, smartphones, laptops, Smart TVs, tablets, and Kodi.
Additionally, configuring “ExpressVPN on Samsung Smart TV in Hong Kong” is straightforward and user-friendly, ensuring a quick and hassle-free setup process.
Price
As per ExpressVPN cost in Hong Kong, It is HKD 52.14 /mo (US$ 6.67 /mo ) - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free with a 30-day money-back guarantee. While it may not be the cheapest VPN option, its pricing is competitive, and the value it provides is well worth the investment. Moreover, new subscribers can get a 7-day ExpressVPN free trial if they sign up through a smartphone.
Customer service
ExpressVPN provides round-the-clock customer support, offering assistance through live chat and email 24/7, ready to address any queries or concerns customers may have.
For more information about its features, head to our comprehensive ExpressVPN review guide.
- Extensive network of servers in Asia
- Utilizes a streamlined VPN protocol
- Rapid connection establishment
- Includes a threat management feature
- Connection speeds may decrease with remote servers
- Higher cost for yearly subscription plans
2. Surfshark – Budget-friendly VPN for Hong Kong
Key Features:
- Offers 3200+ servers in 100+ countries, including multiple server locations in Hong Kong
- 256-bit encryption standards
- Follows a strict no-log policy
- Camouflage Mode for added security
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
Surfshark is an excellent, budget-friendly VPN for Hong Kong. It offers a compelling combination of affordability and features tailored to address the region’s specific online challenges.
Server locations
Surfshark provides a global server network of 3200+ servers in 100+ countries that ensure users in Hong Kong can enjoy a versatile online experience. With multiple servers strategically located in Hong Kong, including nearby countries like Singapore and Japan, users can expect reliable and fast connections for browsing, streaming, and more.
Security
Surfshark takes user privacy and security seriously. It employs robust encryption protocols to safeguard your data and maintains a strict no-logs policy, ensuring your online activities remain private. Additional features like a kill switch, MultiHop for added security, and CleanWeb to block ads and malware enhance online protection.
Streaming
Surfshark’s impressive unblocking capabilities make it a standout choice for Hong Kong residents and visitors alike. It effectively bypasses geo-restrictions, granting access to blocked content, streaming services, and social media platforms. We had a great experience streaming content from popular streaming sites, such as Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, Hulu, and Netflix with Surfshark.
Speed test
Surfshark also doesn’t disappoint in the speed department, providing high-speed connections that enable seamless streaming, gaming, and rapid downloads. During the Surfshark speed test, it delivered a download speed of 81.32 Mbps and an upload speed of 76.12 Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection.
Ease of Use
Surfshark offers extensive device compatibility, catering to Hong Kong users’ diverse tech preferences. It supports various platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and more. With user-friendly apps and easy setup guides, Surfshark ensures that all your devices can benefit from VPN protection.
Price
Surfshark is tailored for budget-conscious users, making it an attractive option for Hong Kong residents. It’s available for only HKD 19.47 /mo (US$ 2.49 /mo ) - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee. Users can also avail of a Surfshark free trial by subscribing to it through mobile devices.
Customer service
Surfshark provides continuous customer support through live chat and email, available 24/7 to assist with any queries. If you’re not satisfied and wish to cancel your Surfshark subscription, you can easily do so by reaching out to the support team.
For more information, read our detailed Surfshark review.
- Affordable pricing
- Vast server network
- Effective at bypassing the Great Firewall
- No device limit
- Strong security features
- MultiHop and CleanWeb features
- No-logs policy
- Occasionally slower speeds
- Limited server locations in China
3. NordVPN – Most Secure VPN for Hong Kong
Key Features:
- Offers 6000+ servers in 61
+ countries, including 70+ servers in Hong Kong - 256-bit encryption standards
- Follows a strict no-log policy
- Onion over VPN for added security
- Six simultaneous connections
NordVPN stands as the most secure VPN option for users in Hong Kong, offering a comprehensive suite of features designed to provide exceptional online privacy and protection in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Server locations
NordVPN boasts a substantial server network of 6000+ servers in 61 countries, including 70+ servers in Hong Kong and nearby regions like Taiwan and Japan. This extensive network ensures that users in Hong Kong can access high-speed, reliable connections for various online activities.
Security
It employs advanced encryption protocols, ensuring the highest level of data protection. A strict no-logs policy guarantees user privacy, while features like CyberSec and Double VPN provide additional layers of security. NordVPN’s commitment to user safety is unwavering.
Streaming
What sets NordVPN apart is its exceptional prowess at unblocking content and services. Hong Kong users can confidently access blocked websites, streaming platforms, and social media, even amid heightened censorship.
Apart from local content, NordVPN also allows access to international platforms like HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, and more. Not just that, we could also explore multiple regional libraries of Disney Plus with NordVPN in Hong Kong, allowing us to explore content beyond Hong Kong borders.
Speed test
Speaking of its speed, NordVPN meets and exceeds expectations, providing blazing-fast connections that enable effortless streaming, gaming, and swift downloads. On a 100 Mbps connection, NordVPN displayed a download speed of 83.82 Mbps and an upload speed of 44.64 Mbps.
Ease of Use
As for compatibility, NordVPN boasts broad device compatibility, catering to the diverse tech preferences of Hong Kong users. It supports various platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and more. You can also use NordVPN on Firestick in Hong kong, Roku, Smart TV and Apple TV. With user-friendly apps and straightforward setup guides, NordVPN ensures that all your devices benefit from robust VPN protection.
Price
You can get NordVPN for only HKD 31.19 /mo (US$ 3.99 /mo ) - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free for a friend. A 7-day NordVPN free trial is also available for new subscribers.
Customer service
NordVPN’s customer support is unparalleled, offering 24/7 assistance via live chat and email.
For a deeper look, don’t miss out on our NordVPN review for exclusive details!
- Robust security features
- Vast server network in Hong Kong
- Strong at bypassing Great Firewall
- High-speed connections
- MultiHop and CyberSec features
- Consistent no-logs policy
- Limited servers in China
- No split-tunneling on some devices
4. CyberGhost – User-friendly VPN for Hong Kong
Key Features:
- Offers 7900+ servers in 100+ countries, including 50+ servers in Hong Kong
- 256-bit encryption standards
- Follows a strict no-log policy
- 45-day money-back guarantee
- Seven simultaneous connections
CyberGhost emerges as the most user-friendly VPN for Hong Kong users seeking a VPN experience that combines accessibility with robust features.
Server locations
CyberGhost’s extensive server network includes 7900 servers in 100 countries, with a noteworthy presence in Hong Kong with 50+ servers. This comprehensive coverage ensures users in the region can access lightning-fast connections, offering a seamless online experience.
Security
CyberGhost places a strong emphasis on user security. It employs top-grade encryption protocols, ensuring the highest level of data protection. Additionally, features like a kill switch and DNS/IP/WebRTC leak protection enhance your online security, providing peace of mind for Hong Kong users.
Streaming
CyberGhost excels at bypassing geo-restrictions, making it an invaluable tool for users in Hong Kong. It effortlessly grants access to blocked websites and streaming platforms, such as Netflix with CyberGhost, HBO Max, Hulu, and social media, like Facebook and Twitter, ensuring users enjoy a truly unrestricted internet experience.
Speed test
Moreover, it delivers impressive connection speeds, recording a download speed of 75.47 Mbps and an upload speed of 63.34 Mbps over a 100 Mbps base connection. What sets CyberGhost apart is its commitment to providing users with unlimited bandwidth. This means you can revel in throttle-free connection speeds, even when dealing with substantial data volumes, all while staying incognito.
Ease of Use
CyberGhost is broadly compatible across various platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and more. It’s user-friendly apps and straightforward setup guides ensure that all your devices can benefit from VPN protection without any hassle.
Price
CyberGhost offers competitive pricing options, starting from HKD 15.87 /mo (US$ 2.03 /mo ) - Save up to 84% with exclusive 2-year plans + 4 months free. Moreover, it distinguishes itself with a generous 45-day money-back guarantee offer, cementing its status as a premier choice for those seeking a perfect VPN experience in Hong Kong.
Customer service
With 24/7 assistance available through live chat and email, users in Hong Kong can rest assured knowing that help is always just a click away.
To learn more about its features, head to CyberGhost review.
- Vast server network
- Strong unblocking capabilities
- High-speed connections
- User-friendly apps
- Broad device compatibility
- Robust security features
- Reliable customer support
- Competitive pricing
- Limited servers in Hong Kong
- Occasional connection drops
- No-logs audit
5. Private Internet Access (PIA) – User-friendly VPN for Hong Kong
Key Features:
- Offers 35000 servers across 84 + countries, including multiple servers in Hong Kong
- 256-bit encryption standards
- Follows a strict no-log policy
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a reliable VPN for Hong Kong, offering a host of features tailored to facilitate the unique online challenges faced in the country.
Server locations
PIA boasts a widespread server network of 35000 servers that spans over 78 countries, providing comprehensive global coverage. Although its presence in Hong Kong is limited, users can still benefit from a range of nearby servers in Asia, ensuring solid and dependable connections.
Security
PIA places a strong emphasis on user security. It employs advanced encryption protocols to protect your data. Additional features like a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and split tunneling enhance online privacy. PIA’s strict no-logs policy underscores its commitment to safeguarding your online activities.
Streaming
PIA boasts a widespread server network of 35000 servers that spans over 78 countries, providing comprehensive global coverage. Although its presence in Hong Kong is limited, users can still benefit from a range of nearby servers in Asia, ensuring solid and dependable connections.
Speed test
PIA delivers commendable connection speeds: 65.78 Mbps download speed and 57.16 Mbps upload speed. It ensures that you can work or enjoy leisure activities online without disruptions.
Ease of Use
PIA offers broad compatibility across various devices and platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and more. It’s user-friendly apps and straightforward setup guides make it accessible to users of all tech backgrounds.
Price
PIA offers competitive pricing, starting from $3.99/month with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Read more about it in our PIA review.
Customer service
PIA understands the importance of responsive customer support. While it offers 24/7 support through live chat and email, the availability of customer support agents may be less than instantaneous compared to some competitors. However, PIA ensures that user inquiries are addressed with care and expertise.
- Widespread server network
- Strong unblocking capabilities of Hong Kong content
- Respectable connection speed
- Broad device compatibility
- Robust security features
- Competitive Pricing
- Limited servers in Hong Kong
- Customer support response time may vary
- Limited advanced customization options
How do I connect to Hong Kong VPN?
To connect to a VPN server in Hong Kong, follow these general steps:
- Subscribe to a reputable VPN service that offers servers in Hong Kong. We highly recommend ExpressVPN.
- Download the VPN app for your device’s operating system.
- Open the VPN app on your device and sign in to your VPN account using the credentials.
- Choose a server located in Hong Kong from the server list. This may be labeled as “Hong Kong” or similar.
- Click or tap the “Connect” button in the VPN app to establish a connection to the selected Hong Kong server.
- You can access websites and online services as if you were in Hong Kong, bypassing geo-restrictions and enjoying enhanced online privacy.
Internet censorship in Hong Kong
The 2022 report by Freedom House highlights a continuous decline in internet freedom in Hong Kong, particularly following the introduction of the National Security Law in 2020. This legislation grants extensive surveillance and censorship powers to the government, including the ability to demand user data from ISPs and suppress online content considered unlawful.
In 2021, authorities directed major online platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Google to eliminate content linked to the pro-democracy movement and related protests in Hong Kong. Consequently, Freedom House has categorized Hong Kong’s internet freedom status as “partly free.”
In this challenging digital environment, Hongkongers increasingly turn to VPNs to protect their privacy, access restricted content, and evade government monitoring.
Does China’s Great Firewall work in Hong Kong?
The Great Firewall of China is not operational in Hong Kong due to the region’s distinct legal framework, which sets it apart from mainland China’s censorship regulations.
As a result, Hong Kong does not enforce the same extensive internet censorship as mainland China. This allows access to numerous websites and platforms, including social media sites like Facebook and Twitter, which are restricted in mainland China.
Despite this, there have been indications of the government’s intentions to impose online content restrictions and limit access to specific websites and online platforms.
Setting Up a VPN for Travel
If you’re gearing up for a trip and considering Hong Kong VPN servers, it’s essential to prepare and understand how to best use your VPN, such as ExpressVPN, for traveling:
- Set up your ExpressVPN before your journey begins. This avoids the rush of downloading and configuring when you should be settling in for your flight.
- Get comfortable with ExpressVPN at home. Ensure it works smoothly before navigating the streets of a new city, saving you the stress of troubleshooting abroad.
- Use ExpressVPN’s feature to bookmark your most-used servers, especially those in your travel destinations. Saving these servers ensures quick and reliable access when you’re on the move.
- Be aware of the internet regulations in the countries you’re visiting. While services like ExpressVPN are widely accepted, some places have strict rules or prohibitions on VPN usage, so it’s crucial to use your VPN respectfully and lawfully.
FAQ: Best VPN for Hong Kong
What VPN to use in Hong Kong?
Which is the fastest VPN in Hong Kong?
Are VPNs legal in Hong Kong?
Can I use NordVPN in Hong Kong?
Will the new Hong Kong privacy laws affect VPNs?
Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting the best VPN for Hong Kong is an important decision to secure your online identity while in the region. As online challenges and censorship measures persist, VPNs offer a lifeline for users seeking to protect their privacy, access unrestricted content, and ensure a secure online experience.
After a thorough assessment of available options, ExpressVPN emerges as the top choice for users in Hong Kong. With its headquarters located in the privacy-friendly jurisdiction of the British Virgin Islands, ExpressVPN has consistently upheld its commitment to user privacy by refraining from logging customer data. Moreover,
Additionally, it’s worth noting that ExpressVPN’s robust server network, coupled with its exceptional speed and security features, empowers users to tackle the unique challenges of the Hong Kong digital landscape with confidence and peace of mind. With ExpressVPN, users can not only safeguard their online privacy but also access geo-restricted content, making it the best VPN for Hong Kong.
For more expert advice and insights on using VPNs to access a world of streaming content securely from Hong Kong and beyond, you can also check out StreamingRant.