Best Mac VPN in 2024 (2024)

The internet makes life easier in many ways, simplifying everything from banking to grocery shopping and travel planning. However, the online world also poses security risks, potentially allowing your sensitive data and browsing history to be exposed. A virtual private network (VPN) can help keep your information safe. If you’re an Apple user, you need a VPN for Mac.

Our research team tested multiple VPN services, comparing them on points like upload and download speeds, number of connections permitted and monthly fees. We also checked out real-world feedback on review platforms to see what everyday consumers have to say. In this guide, we summarize our findings and present the best VPNs for Mac providers.

Featured VPN service offers

NordVPN

Best Mac VPN in 2024 (1)

Best Mac VPN in 2024 (2)

Learn More

Via NordVPN’s website

Free plan

No

Cheapest monthly plan

$12.99

Download speed (average)

235 Mbps

Surfshark

Best Mac VPN in 2024 (3)

Best Mac VPN in 2024 (4)

Learn More

Via Surfshark’s website

Free plan

No

Cheapest monthly plan

$15.45

Download speed (average)

263 Mbps

Private Internet Access (PIA)

Best Mac VPN in 2024 (5)

Best Mac VPN in 2024 (6)

Learn More

Via Private Internet Access’s website

Free plan

No

Cheapest monthly plan

$11.95

Download speed (average)

124 Mbps

Best Mac VPN

  • NordVPN: Outstanding security features.
  • Surfshark: Best for multi-device households.
  • PureVPN: Great for gaming.
  • ProtonVPN: Best freebie option.
  • CyberGhost: Best money-back guarantee.
  • IPVanish: Best customer support features.
  • IVPN: Best basic option.
  • ExpressVPN: Outstanding streaming features.
  • Private Internet Access (PIA): Outstanding consumer transparency measures.
  • TorGuard VPN: Best customization options.

Why trust our small business experts

Our team of experts evaluates hundreds of business products and analyzes thousands of data points to help you find the best product for your situation. We use a data-driven methodology to determine each rating. Advertisers do not influence our editorial content. You can read more about our methodology below.

  • 18 companies reviewed.
  • 64 hours of product testing.
  • 774 data points analyzed.

Outstanding security features

NordVPN

Blueprint Rating

Learn More

Via NordVPN's website

Monthly fee

$12.99

Simultaneous VPN connections

Yes, up to six devices

Average upload and download speeds

333 Mbps / 356 Mbps

What you should know

NordVPN delivers on all the essential security points we surveyed, with anonymous browsing, DNS protection, a no-logs policy and a kill switch in case the VPN glitches. NordVPN also has less common security features, like a dedicated IP and multi-factor authentication. There are additional extras, like malware protection and a dark web monitor that scans the internet for potential leaks linked to your VPN’s registered email address.

NordVPN users award the provider 4.7 out of 5 stars in the Apple App Store and a 4.5-star rating in the Google Play Store. Trustpilot reviewers give it a 4.2 out of 5 stars. Given the security extras NordVPN offers, we like it for anyone whose primary concern is staying safe online.

Learn More: Read our full NordVPN review.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Dark web monitoring and malware protection.
  • Dedicated IP included.
  • Fast upload and download speeds.

Cons

  • Limited to six devices.
  • No free version available.
  • Limited customer support.

Best for multi-device households

Surfshark

Blueprint Rating

Learn More

Via Surfshark's website

Monthly fee

$10.99

Simultaneous VPN connections

Yes, unlimited

Average upload and download speeds

312 Mbps / 330 Mbps

What you should know

Large households, take note: Surfshark allows coverage for multiple devices, with unlimited simultaneous connections. You can keep the entire family secure online with a single account. Surfshark also has a comprehensive security offering, which includes a no-logs policy, DNS and leak protection and a kill switch. With “camouflage mode,” you can even conceal the fact that you’re using a VPN from your internet provider.

Surfshark has 4.8 out of 5 stars in the Apple App Store, 4.4 stars in the Google Play Store and a 4.4 rating on Trustpilot. We like Surfshark for families with multi-device households seeking comprehensive security coverage.

Learn More: Read our full Surfshark review.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Strong reputation.
  • Unlimited device coverage.
  • Supports P2P encryption.

Cons

  • Split tunneling unavailable for iOS.
  • No VPN accelerator to boost speeds.
  • No private search engine for base plan.

Great for gaming

PureVPN

Blueprint Rating

Learn More

Read our review

Monthly fee

$12.45

Simultaneous VPN connections

Yes, up to 10 devices

Average upload and download speeds

310.5 Mbps / 354.3 Mbps

What you should know

If you enjoy online games, from Call of Duty to World of Warcraft, you know how frustrating internet interruptions can be when you’re caught up in the action. PureVPN caters to gamers, promising access to region-locked games, zero ISP throttling and port forwarding for connecting to gaming servers. PureVPN also offers access for up to 10 devices simultaneously, so you can play with friends and family in your household.

Google Play Store users give PureVPN 3.9 out of 5 stars, while Apple App Store users give it 4.2 out of 5 stars. On Trustpilot, the VPN provider earns 4.7 stars. While we like PureVPN for gamers, it can also serve general users interested in improving online security.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Features geared toward gamers.
  • Global network spanning 70-plus countries and more than 6,500 servers.
  • Ultra-fast 20 gigabytes per second (Gbps) connection.

Cons

  • Dedicated IP costs extra.
  • No split tunneling for iOS.
  • Limited security features.

Best freebie option

ProtonVPN

Blueprint Rating

Learn More

Via ProtonVPN's website

Monthly fee

$9.99

Simultaneous VPN connections

Yes, up to 10 devices

Average upload and download speeds

353 Mbps / 317 Mbps

What you should know

If a VPN isn’t in your budget right now, ProtonVPN offers a free version that can help you stay safe online nonetheless. While the free version has limitations, offering coverage for only one device and restricting server diversity, it’s better than nothing. It still features a no-logs policy and anti-censorship features. If you opt for a paid plan, you can enjoy advanced features, connections to over 3,000 servers and coverage for up to 10 devices.

ProtonVPN has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in the Apple App Store and 4.5 out of 5 stars in the Google Play Store. The provider’s Trustpilot ranking is relatively low, with 2.4 out of 5 stars. Still, if it’s a free VPN for Mac you’re after, this is your best bet.

Learn More: Read our full ProtonVPN review.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Free option.
  • Based in Switzerland, which isn’t a member of any mass surveillance alliances.
  • Ad blocker available.

Cons

  • Low Trustpilot ranking.
  • Little customer support.
  • No split tunneling for Mac.

Best money-back guarantee

CyberGhost

Blueprint Rating

Learn More

Read our review

Monthly fee

$12.99

Simultaneous VPN connections

Yes, up to seven devices

Average upload and download speeds

330 Mbps / 313 Mbps

What you should know

While most of the providers on our list offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, CyberGhost stands out for its 45-day money-back guarantee. CyberGhost also provides comprehensive privacy and anonymity measures, including a no-logs policy, DNS protection, kill switch and access to a fleet of more than 6,800 servers worldwide. You can protect up to seven devices simultaneously with your VPN.

CyberGhost earns 4.2 out of 5 stars from Apple App Store users and 4.2 out of 5 stars from Google Play Store users. It also has a 4.4 Trustpilot rating. Given the trial period, we recommend CyberGhost for anyone who wants to test a VPN before committing.

Learn More: Read our full CyberGhost review.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • 45-day money-back guarantee.
  • 24/7 live customer support.
  • Unlimited bandwidth.

Cons

  • No multi-factor authentication.
  • No annual plan.
  • Coverage capped at seven devices.

Best customer support features

IPVanish

Blueprint Rating

Learn More

Read our review

Monthly fee

$12.99

Simultaneous VPN connections

Yes, unlimited

Average upload and download speeds

358 Mbps / 339 Mbps

What you should know

IPVanish offers some of the most comprehensive customer support in our ranking of VPNs for Mac, including a comprehensive knowledge base plus email, live chat, social media and telephone support. Support is available 24/7. You can also rest easy knowing IPVanish has a comprehensive security offering, including anonymous browsing and online threat protection against location tracking, network hacking and identity theft.

IPVanish has a 4.3 rating in the Google Play Store and a 4.5 rating in the Apple App Store, while Trustpilot users have awarded it 4.2 out of 5 stars. Given the comprehensive customer support, we like this VPN for anyone who feels less technically adept.

Learn More: Read our full IPVanish review.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Excellent customer service availability.
  • Coverage for unlimited devices.
  • High-tech WireGuard protection.

Cons

  • No dedicated IP.
  • Blocked in certain countries, including China, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Egypt.
  • Previously handed over user data to the Department of Homeland Security.

Best basic option

IVPN

Blueprint Rating

Learn More

Read our review

Monthly fee

$6

Simultaneous VPN connections

Yes, up to seven devices, depending on plan

Average upload and download speeds

312 Mbps / 381 Mbps

What you should know

If you want a basic VPN that focuses on security without all the bells and whistles, take note of IVPN. The provider doesn’t have perks like a browser extension, but still offers basics like DNS protection, kill switch and a no-logs policy. It also has anti-tracking features to block unwanted pop-up ads, data harvesting tools and potentially malicious websites. One security feature that it lacks is a dedicated IP.

The Apple App Store lists IVPN as having 4 out of 5 stars, while the Google Play Store gives it 3.2 stars. On Trustpilot, the provider earns 4.5 out of 5 stars. While it might not offer a lot of extras, IVPN offers the essentials at a good price.

Learn More: Read our full IVPN review.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Relatively low cost.
  • Includes anti-tracking features.
  • Solid speeds in our tests.

Cons

  • Two-device limit for standard plans.
  • No dedicated IP.
  • No browser extension.

Outstanding streaming features

ExpressVPN

Blueprint Rating

Learn More

Read our review

Monthly fee

$12.95

Simultaneous VPN connections

Yes, up to eight devices

Average upload and download speeds

331 Mbps / 285 Mbps

What you should know

If you want to use a VPN for streaming, for example, to access media in regions other than the one you live in, ExpressVPN is worth a look. The provider boasts compatibility with major streaming providers, including HBO, Disney+, Apple TV+, Amazon Prime Video and Netflix. Its comprehensive streaming guide covers how to get set up, plus how to connect your VPN to compatible streaming media devices.

ExpressVPN also covers the security basics, like a no-logs policy and a broad server network across 100-plus countries. ExpressVPN has 4.7 stars in the Apple App Store, 4.3 stars in the Google Play Store and a 3.9 rating on Trustpilot. For streaming, it’s a great pick.

Learn More: Read our full ExpressVPN review.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Comprehensive streaming services compatibility.
  • Server network spanning 100-plus countries.
  • 24/7 live chat support.

Cons

  • Slower upload and download speeds.
  • Pricier than some other providers on our list.
  • Coverage capped at eight devices.

Outstanding consumer transparency measures

Private Internet Access (PIA)

Blueprint Rating

Learn More

Via Private Internet Access's website

Monthly fee

$11.95

Simultaneous VPN connections

Yes, unlimited

Average upload and download speeds

204 Mbps / 244 Mbps

What you should know

Private Internet Access (PIA) sets a high standard for transparency, publicly releasing regular transparency reports, including information about all government demands for user data. The VPN provider includes essential security features, such as a no-logs policy, split tunneling, kill switch, DNS protection and blockers for ads, malware and trackers. Add-ons like antivirus protection can further enhance security.

Apple App Store users give PIA 4.7 out of 5 stars, while Google Play Store users award it 4.5 stars. On Trustpilot, PIA has a 4.4 rating. Given PIA’s commitment to transparency, anyone who cares about a VPN provider’s due diligence will be interested in this provider.

Learn More: Read our full Private Internet Access (PIA) review.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Very transparent about privacy and security measures.
  • Coverage for unlimited devices.
  • 24/7 live customer support.

Cons

  • Upload and download speeds on the slower side in our tests.
  • iOS users have reported connectivity issues.
  • Dedicated IP costs extra.

Best customization options

TorGuard VPN

Blueprint Rating

Learn More

Read our review

Monthly fee

$9.99

Simultaneous VPN connections

Yes, up to 12 devices

Average upload and download speeds

36 Mbps / 259 Mbps

What you should know

TorGuard VPN helps protect your Mac from online threats with essentials like internal encrypted DNS, no logs and a network of more than 3,000 servers across 50-plus countries. The provider promises unlimited bandwidth and speeds, plus coverage for up to 12 devices. TorGuard stands out for its unique packages, including options like VPN plus private email or VPN plus streaming.

TorGuard has a 4.7 rating in the Apple App Store and a 4.2 rating in the Google Play Store. On Trustpilot, the VPN provider earns 4.3 out of 5 stars. We like TorGuard for its unique combo packages, allowing you to customize your online protection.

Learn More: Read our full TorGuard VPN review.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Multi-purpose online protection packages.
  • Dedicated IP.
  • User-friendly browser extension.

Cons

  • Limited customer support options.
  • No split tunneling for iOS.
  • Torrenting blocked on U.S. servers.

Featured VPN service offers

NordVPN

Best Mac VPN in 2024 (17)

Best Mac VPN in 2024 (18)

Learn More

Via NordVPN’s website

Free plan

No

Cheapest monthly plan

$12.99

Download speed (average)

235 Mbps

Surfshark

Best Mac VPN in 2024 (19)

Best Mac VPN in 2024 (20)

Learn More

Via Surfshark’s website

Free plan

No

Cheapest monthly plan

$15.45

Download speed (average)

263 Mbps

Private Internet Access (PIA)

Best Mac VPN in 2024 (21)

Best Mac VPN in 2024 (22)

Learn More

Via Private Internet Access’s website

Free plan

No

Cheapest monthly plan

$11.95

Download speed (average)

124 Mbps

Best Mac VPN comparison

AVERAGE UPLOAD/DOWNLOAD SPEEDSSIMULTANEOUS CONNECTIONSMULTI-FACTOR AUTHENTICATIONBASE MONTHLY PRICE

NordVPN

333 Mbps / 356 Mbps

Yes, up to six devices

Yes

$12.99

Surfshark

312 Mbps / 330 Mbps

Yes, unlimited

Yes

$10.99

PureVPN

310.5 Mbps / 354.3 Mbps

Yes, up to 10 devices

Yes

$12.45

ProtonVPN

353 Mbps / 317 Mbps

Yes, up to 10 devices

Yes

$9.99

CyberGhost

330 Mbps / 313 Mbps

Yes, up to seven devices

No

$12.99

IPVanish

358 Mbps / 339 Mbps

Yes, unlimited

No

$12.99

IVPN

312 Mbps / 381 Mbps

Yes, up to seven devices, depending on plan

No

$6.00

ExpressVPN

331 Mbps / 285 Mbps

Yes, up to eight devices

Yes

$12.95

PIA

204 Mbps / 244 Mbps

Yes, unlimited

Yes

$11.95

TorGuard VPN

36 Mbps / 259 Mbps

Yes, up to 12 devices

Yes

$9.99

Methodology

We extensively research the key competitors within an industry to determine the best products and services for your business. Our experts identify the factors that matter most to consumers, including pricing, features and customer support, to ensure that our recommendations offer well-rounded products that will meet the needs of various consumers.

We collect extensive data to narrow our best list to reputable, easy-to-use products with stand-out features at a reasonable price point. And we look at user reviews to ensure that consumers like you are satisfied with our top picks’ services. We use the same rubric to assess companies within a particular space so you can confidently follow our blueprint to the best VPNs of 2024.

The best VPN providers have positive user reviews on customer review sites, such as Trustpilot, G2 and Capterra. VPN providers should provide customers with fast and reliable support. Utilizing a combination of phone support, live chat and knowledge bases, customers should be able to quickly resolve issues 24/7.

VPNs should provide free trials and free versions to test out the service. Paid plans should be affordably priced when compared to competitors and backed by reasonable refund policies and money-back guarantees.

All VPNs should expand on a basic feature set that includes anonymous browsing, DNS protection measures and multi-factor authentication. They should also provide additional security and usability features such as a kill switch, dedicated IP address and split tunneling.

VPN providers should have an expansive network of VPN servers so that you can access your VPN connection around the world using both VPN apps and browser extensions. Numerous simultaneous connections should be provided to cover all of the internet-connected devices in a household. VPN speeds should be fast enough to perform common internet tasks, including streaming and gaming.

And most importantly, VPN providers should uphold a strict no-log policy with a demonstrated history of maintaining users’ privacy.

What is a Mac VPN and how does it work?

A Mac VPN is simply a VPN that’s compatible with Apple operating systems. The VPN creates a secure tunnel for data you transmit online, like payment and contact details. The encrypted tunnel helps safeguard against cybercriminals, who may otherwise try to collect this data and use it for ill-intentioned purposes, like identity theft.

A VPN also hides your IP address. IP stands for Internet Protocol and refers to a unique numerical identifier. When a device connects to the internet, the IP is used to identify that device. When you connect to the internet without a VPN, you are assigned a public IP address anyone else online can see. A VPN allows for a private IP address.

Benefits of a Mac VPN

Not sure a Mac VPN is worth the investment? Here are some reasons you might consider getting one:

  • Protect your privacy: Internet service providers (ISPs) may track customers’ browsing histories. A VPN helps prevent such third-party tracking.
  • Safeguard sensitive data: When you go online, you probably transmit sensitive details, like credit card information. A VPN helps safeguard against cybercriminals who may use such information maliciously.
  • Enjoy greater security on public networks: Wi-Fi networks in hotels, restaurants or coffee shops may not be secure. Using a VPN can help make them safer to use.
  • Bypass geographic limitations: Certain types of content, like streaming television shows or movies, may only be available in specific countries. A VPN can help you bypass such geographical limitations.
  • Avoid censorship: In some countries, online content may be censored. A VPN may be able to enable access.

Who needs a Mac VPN?

Anyone who wants to improve their internet security can benefit from a VPN, whether for personal or professional use. If you’re a Mac user, you want to make sure that any VPN you download is compatible with your device’s operating system.

You can check what version of macOS you’re using by clicking the Apple menu on the left-hand side of your computer screen and clicking “About This Mac.”

How to choose the best Mac VPN

When selecting the best VPN for Mac, there are a few essential functions to look for. We’ve highlighted the must-haves below and also included a list of some extra features you may be interested in, depending on what you want to use your VPN for.

Key features to look for

If you’re on a budget, you don’t need to spend a huge amount of money on the fanciest VPN with all the cutting-edge features. However, there are a few basic essentials you should look for, including:

  • Fast upload and download speeds: A VPN can result in lag time. Fast upload and download speeds minimize this risk, allowing for seamless streaming and gaming.
  • No-log policy: The entire point of a VPN is to protect your personal data and browsing history. A no-log provider doesn’t record such details.
  • DNS protection measures: DNS protections help to keep your Mac safe from possibly harmful online content.
  • Dedicated IP: A dedicated IP offers greater control over your online activity compared to a shared IP.
  • Kill switch: If your VPN cuts out, you don’t want to be left browsing online unprotected. A kill switch automatically disconnects you to keep you safe.
  • Server diversity: The more geographically diverse servers a VPN has, the more connection options there are available. This usually allows for faster speeds.

Add-ons and extras

In addition to the basics above, there are a few extras you may want to make for a more user-friendly VPN experience. We suggest considering these add-ons:

  • Multi-device coverage: If you want to protect more than one device with your VPN, make sure the provider allows for multiple connections.
  • Browser extension: A browser extension can make your VPN easier to switch on and off, creating a more user-friendly experience.
  • Gaming servers: Some VPN providers offer dedicated gaming servers, which are worth looking into if you’re a gamer.

How much does a Mac VPN cost?

The costs of the Mac VPNs we surveyed ranged from $3.33 to $32.99 per month. Our ranking also includes one free plan (ProtonVPN). Lower-priced plans tend to have limited functionality. For example, they may cover a limited number of devices (ProtonVPN’s free plan covers only one).

Alternatively, they may charge extra for features that more expensive plans include, ultimately resulting in a less cost-efficient product. For example, PureVPN is our most affordable VPN pick, but you’ll have to pay extra for a dedicated IP. This is why it’s worth doing your research to see exactly what a plan includes instead of just opting for the cheapest option available.

You can usually save some money on your VPN provider if you opt for an annual plan. Our research showed that plans billed by the month tended to have higher costs than those billed by the year.

LOWEST PLAN PRICE PER MONTH (MONTHLY BILLING)LOWEST PLAN PRICE PER MONTH (ANNUAL BILLING)HIGHEST PLAN PRICE PER MONTH (MONTHLY BILLING)HIGHEST PLAN PRICE PER MONTH (ANNUAL BILLING)FREE VERSION

NordVPN

$12.99

$4.99

$15.99

$7.99

No

Surfshark

$10.99

$3.49

$21.99

$6.49

No

PureVPN

$12.45

$3.74

$20.95

$6.24

No

ProtonVPN

$9.99

$5.99

N/A

N/A

Yes

CyberGhost

$12.99

N/A

N/A

N/A

No

IPVanish

$13

$3.59

N/A

N/A

No

IVPN

$6.00

$5.00

$10.00

$8.33

No

ExpressVPN

$12.95

$8.32

N/A

N/A

No

PIA

$11.95

$3.33

N/A

N/A

No

TorGuard VPN

$9.99

$29.99

$32.99

$64.99

No

Featured VPN service offers

NordVPN

Best Mac VPN in 2024 (23)

Best Mac VPN in 2024 (24)

Learn More

Via NordVPN’s website

Free plan

No

Cheapest monthly plan

$12.99

Download speed (average)

235 Mbps

Surfshark

Best Mac VPN in 2024 (25)

Best Mac VPN in 2024 (26)

Learn More

Via Surfshark’s website

Free plan

No

Cheapest monthly plan

$15.45

Download speed (average)

263 Mbps

Private Internet Access (PIA)

Best Mac VPN in 2024 (27)

Best Mac VPN in 2024 (28)

Learn More

Via Private Internet Access’s website

Free plan

No

Cheapest monthly plan

$11.95

Download speed (average)

124 Mbps

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Yes, our ranking of the best VPNs for Mac includes one free provider, ProtonVPN. The free service covers one device only and includes servers in only three countries:

  • The United States.
  • Japan.
  • The Netherlands.

If you want expanded server access or multi-device functionality, you’ll have to opt for a paid plan.

While you aren’t required to have a VPN for your Mac, it’s advisable to install one anyway. A VPN can help protect against cyber threats like identity theft, viruses and malware. A VPN can also enhance online functionality, for example, by allowing you to access streaming services or websites in regions where they may normally be restricted.

No, a VPN will not change or protect your MAC address. A VPN only protects your IP address. MAC stands for Media Access Control. A MAC address is a 12-digit code, usually composed of numbers with colons or hyphens. It’s used to uniquely identify connected devices on a network.

Best Mac VPN in 2024 (2024)

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