The best Google Chromebook VPN 2024

Best Google Chromebook VPN - quick menu

Man holding Chromebook at is side with smart watch visible on wrist

(Image credit: Konstantin Savusia / Shutterstock)

1. Top 3 at a glance
2.
Best Chromebook VPN overall
3.
Best fast VPN
4.
Best free VPN
5.
Best of the rest
6.
How to choose a VPN
7.
FAQs

Chromebooks are vital pieces of kit at work, school, and even at home. However, since they use the cloud to access files and (almost) all applications, you'll need to be aware of the myriad threats lurking around those digital corners.

Luckily, that's where a virtual private network (VPN) can help. A VPN is software that channels your traffic through a secure tunnel. Your data is then encrypted, meaning third parties can't read it, and you'll also be assigned a new IP address in a location of your choosing. As a result, you'll be able to unblock content from around the world that might otherwise be hidden behind geo-restrictions and blocks.

With so many VPNs available, however, it can be difficult to figure out which services are worth the investment. I've been putting providers to the test for years, and compared some of the industry's best VPNs, their security toolkits, performance, ease of use, and price to curate this list of the 5 best Chromebook VPNs in 2024.

The three best Chromebook VPNs in 2024

Need a quick answer? No worries. Here are my top 3 VPN picks. Remember, you'll need a service that offers either a Chrome extension client, an Android VPN, or the ability to manually configure your VPN.

1. ExpressVPN: the best Chromebook VPN

1. <a href="https://go.expressvpn.com/c/4550836/1330033/16063?subId1=hawk-custom-tracking&sharedId=hawk&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.expressvpn.com%2Foffer%2Frecommended-deal%3Foffer%3D3monthsfree" data-link-merchant="expressvpn.com"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">ExpressVPN: the best Chromebook VPN
ExpressVPN claims the top spot in my rankings thanks to its security package and lightning-fast speeds—in addition to its Chrome extension and Android app. It's an easy-to-use service that comes jam-packed with tools, and unblocks virtually every streaming platform you can think of.

While ExpressVPN is more expensive than NordVPN and ProtonVPN, you'll get 3 extra months of coverage and 1 year of cloud storage if you sign up for a 12-month plan. Try it for yourself with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

2. NordVPN: the fastest Chromebook VPN

2. <a href="http://go.nordvpn.net/aff_c?offer_id=564&url_id=10992&aff_id=3013&aff_click_id=hawk-custom-tracking&aff_sub2=hawk-article-url" data-link-merchant="go.nordvpn.net"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">NordVPN: the fastest Chromebook VPN
If you're looking for a blend of performance, privacy, and budget-friendly prices, NordVPN has you covered. It's the quickest service I've tested in a long time, and comes with built-in ad-blocking and malware-stopping tools that'll help make the web a safer place to be.

Be sure to take advantage of the 30-day money-back guarantee to see why NordVPN clocks in at a close second, after ExpressVPN, and why it's become a staple of the VPN sphere.

3. ProtonVPN: a reliable free option

3. <a href="https://go.getproton.me/aff_c?offer_id=25&aff_id=1046&source=trd&aff_click_id=hawk-custom-tracking&url=https%3A%2F%2Fprotonvpn.com%2F%3FvisitorId%3Dho-%7Btransaction_id%7D%26aid%3D%7Baffiliate_id%7D%26offer_id%3D%7Boffer_id%7D%26url_id%3D%7Boffer_url_id%7D%26utm_campaign%3Dww-all-2a-vpn-gro_aff-g_acq-partners_program%26utm_medium%3Dlink%26utm_source%3Daid-tune-%7Baffiliate_id%7D%26utm_content%3D%7Boffer_id%7D%26hfp%3Dfalse%26spl%3D%7Baffiliate_id%7D&aff_sub2=hawk-article-url" data-link-merchant="protonvpn.com"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">ProtonVPN: a reliable free option
Free services can be hit and miss in terms of reliability (and security), but ProtonVPN bucks the trend. Free users get unlimited bandwidth and a ton of privacy-enhancing features to explore, and if you choose to upgrade, you can take advantage of Proton VPN's awesome unblocking power.

Proton VPN is a real champion of digital privacy. Its apps are all open source and audited, and the provider has even joined forces with Deutsche Welle to stem the tide of online censorship. Check it out risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Top best Google Chromebook VPNs in 2024

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

Let's dig in to my top 5 picks. I've compared each provider's most recent test results and discussed everything I liked and disliked, and even weighed up how each VPN stacks up against its closest competitors.

The best Chromebook VPN overall

ExpressVPN, the best VPN, running on Windows, Mac, tablet, iPhone, Android, router, and AppleTVTechRadar Editor's Choice award logo

1. ExpressVPN

The very best VPN for Chromebook - sleek apps and awesome speeds

Number of servers: over 3,200 | Server locations: 160 | Simultaneous connections: 8 | Chromebook installation: Chrome extension, Android app, manually

Works on most Chromebooks
OpenVPN and WireGuard encryption
Servers in 94 countries
Unblocks Netflix, Disney Plus, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video
24/7 live chat support
A pricey pick
Not quite as fast as NordVPN and Surfshark
Subscribe if:

✔️ Only the best will do: ExpressVPN takes the cake with rock-solid encryption and security tools that are easy to use, even if you're new to VPNs.

✔️ You want access to global content: ExpressVPN has servers in 94 countries, meaning you'll have no trouble unblocking local content when traveling overseas.

✔️ Security is everything: rest assured that your data is safe from prying eyes with ExpressVPN's regular audits and no-logs policy.

Don't subscribe if:

You're working with a budget: there's no denying that ExpressVPN is on the expensive side. Surfshark is a better pick for folks hunting for a bargain.

You want a one-stop security shop: ExpressVPN is a stellar VPN, but doesn't have built-in antivirus tools. Stick with NordVPN if these are a must-have.

Bottom line: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

🔒 ExpressVPN leads the pack thanks to its handy Chrome extension and unbeatable security package. Plus, you'll be able to unblock pretty much any site, app, and streaming platform. Try it yourself with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Want to know more?

Visit our ExpressVPN review for all the details about this industry-leading provider.

There's a good reason why ExpressVPN tops my overall VPN rankings: it's got everything. From reliable speeds, security tools, and 24/7 customer service, there's no aspect of the ExpressVPN offering that's lacking in any way. That's just as well, I suppose, seeing as it is, admittedly, a pretty pricey option.

ExpressVPN is easy to get set up on your Chromebook, too, with L2TP and OpenVPN options available. I like that there's also a kill switch that'll leap into action and cut your internet connection if it detects that the VPN has dropped out—so you don't have to worry about unknowingly leaking sensitive data.

Try ExpressVPN with a 30-day money-back guarantee. 

There are ExpressVPN servers scattered across 94 countries (and 160 locations), meaning you'll be able to unblock geo-restricted content in just a few clicks. I had no issues accessing Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer, making ExpressVPN one of the best streaming VPNs in the business.

While ExpressVPN isn't quite as quick as NordVPN, it's still wickedly fast. Whether you're streaming in HD, torrenting, or gaming online, the VPN will be able to keep up without slowing your connection to a crawl.

Few VPNs have apps as well-designed and sleek as ExpressVPN. The UI is fresh and unique, and all of the key features are exactly where you'd expect them to be, which makes navigating the client or Chrome app a breeze. However, I would like to see ExpressVPN up its simultaneous connections from 8 to something a little more generous—though 8 should still be enough to cover your most important gadgets.

If you run into trouble, or need help picking out a server, you can reach out to the ExpressVPN customer service team. Agents are available 24/7 via live chat, and they've always been able to handle even the most techy questions I've thrown their way, which is exactly what I like to see.

Swipe to scroll horizontally
ExpressVPN test results:
AttributesNotesRating
DesignA modern, sleek UI with features right where they should be⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useAll apps, including the Chrome extension, are incredibly easy to navigate⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceOne of the quickest providers I've tested recently⭐⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingUnblocks all of the most popular streaming platforms, like Netflix and Amazon Prime⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyRobust encryption and an audited no-logs policy⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer support24//7 live chat support is always available⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PriceMore expensive than the competition, but jam-packed with quality features⭐⭐⭐

The fastest Chromebook VPN

NordVPN app working on mobile, PC, tablet, and other devices

2. NordVPN

A lightning-fast provider that's packed with features

Number of servers: over 5,670 | Server locations: 80 | Simultaneous connections: 6 | Chromebook installation: Chrome extension, Android app

Option of Android client or Chrome extension
Super-speedy NordLynx protocol
Unblocks Netflix, iPlayer, Prime Video, and Disney Plus
Plenty of privacy-enhancing tools
Interactive map is tricky to use on smaller screens
Servers in fewer countries than ExpressVPN
Subscribe if:

✔️ You're a huge Netflix fan: NordVPN claims the #1 spot in my best Neftlix VPN rankings, and can unblock just about every regional library.

✔️ You don't want to spend a fortune: all of NordVPN's subscription tiers are budget-friendly and jam-packed with features.

✔️ You want an all-in-one security suite: a NordVPN plan includes ad blocking and malware protection as standard.

Don't subscribe if:

Simplicity is key: NordVPN's apps are stylish, but the map interface can be a bit fiddly on smaller screens.

You need access to content from everywhere: servers in 60 locations gives you plenty of scope when it comes to unblocking shows and movies, but ExpressVPN has it beat with 160.

Bottom line: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

🔒 NordVPN is a titan of the VPN world, thanks to its blend of security, performance, and streamlined apps for just about every device. See how it compares to ExpressVPN with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Want to know more?

Visit our NordVPN review to learn more about this lightning-fast service.

If any VPN is (almost) a household name, it's NordVPN—and you've probably heard your favorite YouTuber wax lyrical about its myriad features. However, the service actually lives up to the hype, and is a solid all-rounder available at a price point that won't make you wince. Oh, and if you have an Android device, you can even check out a free 7-day VPN free trial to get a feel for the service before committing to a long-term plan.

NordVPN gives you two ways to get set up on Chromebook—with a handy Chrome extension or an Android VPN app. However, these will only work on newer machines, and the Chrome extension only encrypts traffic running through your browser, unlike the ExpressVPN counterpart, which is more than just a proxy. Ultimately, I'd like to see NordVPN follow suit.

Try NordVPN with a 30-day money-back guarantee. 

NordVPN has a sprawling network of more than 5,600 servers in 80 locations—which means you'll have no trouble unblocking content from overseas. In fact, NordVPN is one of the best Netflix VPNs you can get your hands on, and I was able to access other streaming giants like BBC iPlayer and Prime Video without a hiccup. 

It's also worth noting that NordVPN is ridiculously quick. During my most recent tests, it actually maxed out my connection at 950 Mbps, which is more than enough to keep up with HD streams and online gaming. It's the fastest VPN I've encountered in a long time—you'll be able to leave it switched on and go about your day-to-day browsing without noticing a massive impact on your performance.

In terms of privacy-enhancing tools, NordVPN has a long list of sturdy features designed to keep your sensitive information out of the hands of nosy hackers and cybercriminals. DNS leak protection ensures that you don't accidentally leave an identifiable trail across the web, and two kill switches will cover your back if the VPN drops out.

One of NordVPN's biggest selling points, however, is its all-in-one approach to security. Pick up a NordVPN plan, and you'll also be covered by built-in ad-blocking tools and antivirus protection. This means you'll be able to take your Chromebook on the go, and use public Wi-Fi hotspots, without worrying about falling prey to any ne'er do wells or dodgy links.

Swipe to scroll horizontally
NordVPN test results:
AttributesNotesRating
DesignA unique design, but ExpressVPN is cleaner⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useFeatures are intuitive on Chromebook, but there's a lack of attention to detail⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceYou won't find a faster VPN⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingCan access Netflix libraries from around the world with ease⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyBuilt-in ad-blocking and antivirus tools are welcome extras⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer supportAwesome 24/7 live support is available via live chat⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PriceModest prices for a super-secure service⭐⭐⭐⭐

The best free Chromebook VPN

(Image credit: Proton VPN)

3. Proton VPN

Excellent Chromebook VPN with free plan

Number of servers: over 2,900 | Server locations: 85 | Simultaneous connections: 10 | Chromebook installation: Android app

Free plan with unlimited bandwidth
Surprisingly quick
Unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney Plus, and Prime Video
Open-source apps
Streaming locked to premium plans
No 24/7 live support yet
Subscribe if:

✔️ You're looking for a free service: Proton VPN is one of a handful of reliable free options—with unlimited data.

✔️ You want to stay anonymous: you can pay for your Proton VPN plan with Bitcoin or cash if you'd rather avoid leaving a paper trail.

✔️ You need proven privacy: all of Proton VPN's apps are open-source and independently audited.

Don't subscribe if:

You want the fastest option around: while Proton VPN is no slouch, it can't quite keep up with the likes of NordVPN and Surfshark.

You need a broad choice of locations: Proton VPN is constantly improving, but at the moment, ExpressVPN offers more server locations.

Bottom line: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

🔒 Proton VPN is a real champion of digital privacy with tough encryption and audited apps. While it can unblock plenty of services, NordVPN still has it beat when it comes to overall speed.

Want to know more?

Check out our in-depth Proton VPN review to see how the service is combating censorship around the world.

Like NordVPN, Proton VPN is a well-established staple in the VPN sphere and has carved out a niche for itself as a proactive protector of digital privacies. All of Proton VPN's apps are open-source and independently audited, so you don't have to take the provider's word on good faith alone.

Proton VPN offers a dedicated Chromebook app through its Android client. The apps are all fairly easy to use and are wrapped up in a cyberpunk chic—so, if you're a dark mode loyalist, you'll be pleased. Currently, Proton VPN allows up to 10 simultaneous connections, which is pretty generous, though some providers (like Surfshark) go one step further by supporting unlimited devices.

Try Proton VPN's unlimited free plan.

The provider employs the best protocols around, including WireGuard and OpenVPN, to keep your personal data out of the hands of third-party snoopers, and a kill-switch goes the extra mile to ensure you're not blindsided by an unexpected data link. The MultiHop VPN feature is a nice bonus, too, and routes your traffic through several VPN servers, taking your privacy to a whole new level.

On the subject of privacy, Proton VPN isn't afraid to fight for it. The provider launched the VPN Observatory as a means to keep an eye on outbreaks of censorship as they happen and monitor spikes in VPN usage. The Observatory then spreads the word, raising the alarm about these sudden outbreaks of censorship as and when they happen.

I was also pleasantly surprised by just how many streaming platforms Proton VPN was able to access. Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+ all worked like a charm—but there's a slight catch. Proton VPN's unblocking prowess is reserved for paying customers, which means that folks on the free plan are out of luck. That's a little disappointing but, unfortunately, par for the course when it comes to free VPNs.

If you're willing to overlook these streaming limitations, however, Proton VPN's free plan is otherwise impressive. There are no monthly data caps to worry about—you'll get unlimited bandwidth and rock-solid encryption, making it a great pick for folks working with a limited budget or anyone who'd rather try before buying.

Swipe to scroll horizontally
Proton VPN test results:
AttributesNotesRating
DesignA sleek dark mode interface that stands out from the crowd⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useSomewhat finnicky on desktop, but smoother on mobile⭐⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceNot a chart topper, but still reliably quick⭐⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingPaid users get access to all sorts of popular streaming services⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyTons of security tools and add-ons to play with⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer supportTechnical support is readily accessible although agents are scarce⭐⭐⭐
PricePremium plans are on the pricey side, but there's a great free alternative⭐⭐⭐⭐

The best of the rest

Surfshark VPN app running on several devices

4. Surfshark

An affordable but feature-packed Chromebook VPN

Number of servers: over 3,200 | Server locations: 143 | Simultaneous connections: Unlimited | Chromebook installation: Android app

Affordable plans
Incredibly fast
Unblocks Netflix, iPlayer, Prime Video, Disney+
Unlimited connections
Some kill switch issues on Windows
No notification if your VPN drops
Subscribe if:

✔️ You're on a budget: awesome speeds, a ton of security features, and impressive unblocking power—Surfshark offers it all for a minuscule price.

✔️ You want an affordable security suite: similar to NordVPN, Surfshark plans include a variety of tools designed to protect your browsing sessions.

Don't subscribe if:

You can't risk a data leak: unfortunately, Surfshark's Windows kill switch has some bugs, and you're better off with NordVPN if you'd rather avoid an IP leak.

You want more server locations: 143 server locations should be enough for most folks, but if you want to maximize your options, stick with ExpressVPN.

Bottom line: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

🔒 Surfshark is, by far, the best value-for-money provider I've tested in a long time. All of its apps are a joy to use, and unlimited simultaneous connections let you cover the whole family. See for yourself with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Want to know more?

Visit our Surfshark review to see why how this super cheap service holds up against its pricier peers.

Surfshark well and truly offers the best of both worlds—it's affordable and powerful, with a stacked roster of security tools. Thanks to Surfshark's Android client, you'll benefit from its privacy-protecting measures on your Chromebook, too.

I really enjoy Surfshark's clean interface. All of its apps are clutter-free and easy to navigate, even if you've never used a VPN before, which makes it an awesome pick for VPN newbies. Surfshark is compatible with most platforms, and you'll also get unlimited simultaneous connections to share amongst family, friends, or your own legion of internet-enabled gadgets.

Try Surfshark with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

In terms of security, Surfshark impresses with a reliable kill switch that'll prevent accidental leaks. You can also make good use of a Multi-Hop VPN if you really want to put a stop to third-party tracking, as well as ad and malware-blocking tools.

Although Surfshark can unblock some of the most popular streaming platforms available today, it falls ever so slightly short to NordVPN. Still, I was able to unblock Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+, and more in my most recent round of testing. That should be enough for even the most content-hungry folks.

Surfshark is, however, wickedly fast, and managed to hit WireGuard speeds of over 950 Mbps. That's impressive, and means you'll be able to leave the VPN running in the background as you go on with your day-to-day browsing, all without noticing any slowdown. Surfshark's performance also means it can handle data-intensive tasks like torrenting and online gaming.

Overall, Surfshark is the best cheap VPN on the market today, and Android users even get access to a free trial that'll let them put the service to the test. Otherwise, you'll be covered by a 30-day money-back guarantee and 24/7 live chat support that ready, willing, and able to take on any techy troubles.

Swipe to scroll horizontally
Surfshark test results:
AttributesNotesRating
DesignLots of features, but they're all well-designed⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useConnecting is quick and easy, and apps are intuitive⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceA lightning-fast service⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingUnblocks most in-demand platforms⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyBlocks trackers and ads, and boasts tough encryption⭐⭐⭐
Customer support24/7 live chat support, but support articles could use some TLC⭐⭐⭐⭐
PriceBargain prices and unlimited connections⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

CyberGhost VPN app running on multiple devices and operating systems

5. CyberGhost VPN

Great configurability for your Google Chromebook

Number of servers: over 9,260 | Server locations: 116 | Simultaneous connections: 7 | Chromebook installation: Android app, manual

Impressive WireGuard speeds
45-day money-back guarantee
Torrent friendly
Unblocks US Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, and Disney+
No security audit
Restricted to 7 registered devices
Subscribe if:

✔️ You want a user-friendly service: CyberGhost is a great pick for VPN newbies, thanks to its clutter-free interface and intuitive tools.

✔️ You want to try before buying: put CyberGhost to the test with an especially generous 45-day money-back guarantee.

Don't subscribe if:

You have a lot of devices: currently, CyberGhost restricts users to 7 active installations at any one time, so opt for Surfshark if you want unlimited connections.

You need in-depth support: CyberGhost's support agents have always been happy to help, but the support site isn't as detailed as ExpressVPN's knowledgebase.

Bottom line: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

🔒 CyberGhost is a solid all-rounder with intuitive apps for just about every device you can imagine, and a massive 45-day money-back guarantee.

Want to know more?

Check out our CyberGhost review to learn more about what makes the provider a mainstay in the industry.

CyberGhost rounds out my rankings, but it's a solid-all rounder that works well with just about any device—including Chromebooks and smart TV. Thanks to the VPN's Smart DNS support, you can also get set up on a game console, too.

One of CyberGhost's most impressive features is its vast network of servers. In fact, there are more than 9,200 of them dotted across 116 global locations. Esentially, you'll have your pick of content—whether that's streaming platforms, social media sites, or news sources otherwise inaccesible in your current location.

Try CyberGhost VPN with a 45-day money-back guarantee. 

On that note, CyberGhost is one of my favorite BBC iPlayer VPNs—which is great news if you're a fan of UK content. The VPN also unblocks Netflix, and Hulu. and Amazon Prime without a hitch thanks to its dedicated streaming servers. ExpressVPN and NordVPN might be top of the class, but CyberGhost has proven itself to be a capable streaming service over the years.

Oh, and CyberGhost is seriously quick. I recorded WireGuard speeds of 730 Mbps—and while that's not as fast as NordVPN and Surfshark, it's still way more than you need to enjoy smooth browsing sessions and buffer-free streaming. Basically, CyberGhost is another VPN you can set and forget.

From a security standpoint, I was generally impressed by CyberGhost's array of tools—but there's one glaring issue that I'd like to see addressed. Currently, the Windows app doesn't notify you when it connects or disconnects, meaning you could be totally unaware of the fact that you're not actively being covered by the VPN. If that's a deal-breaker, you'll want to stick with ExpressVPN.

I found CyberGhost's apps pretty easy to use. The design is simple and clean, which is why I often recommend the service to VPN newcomers. However, the provider limits you to 8 installations at any one time, which can feel quite stingy if you have a lot of gadgets in the house.

Swipe to scroll horizontally
CyberGhost VPN test results:
AttributesNotesRating
DesignPlenty of customization options⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useIdeal for anyone looking for simplicity⭐⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceFantastic speeds well-suited to HD streaming⭐⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingHandy streaming servers and access to a long list of sites⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacySome issues, but otherwise solid encryption⭐⭐⭐
Customer supportOn-site content could be improved, but agents are helpful⭐⭐⭐
PriceModest prices for a reliable service⭐⭐⭐⭐

Chrome logo on the back of a Chromebook with a man out of focus working on it

(Image credit: Konstantin Savusia / Shutterstock)

How I test VPNs - VPN review methodology

My VPN reviews begin with a detailed look at the provider's website. What features do you get? How useful is the support site? Has the provider gone through an audit, and if so, what did it say? And are there any catches in the small print?

VPNs can vary hugely between platforms, so I test and compare apps on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. I look at usability, features, settings, and more, and make sure each app works as expected.

Peeking under the hood can give you very useful information about a VPN, so I also dig deeper into the Windows app, exploring the files it uses, the settings, and whether it's properly setting up your connection for the best possible privacy.

VPN performance benchmark showing 829.76 mbps download speeds

(Image credit: Speedtest.net)

Speed matters, too. I test performance from a UK cloud PC with a speedy and ultra-reliable 1 Gbps, giving each VPN plenty of bandwidth to show me just what it can do.

Providers might claim to have a kill switch, but does this really give you the protection it claims? I use various techniques to force a VPN connection to close, and monitor each app to make sure it handles each situation correctly.

One of my most important tests determines who delivers on the unblocking front and who doesn't. To find out, I check whether each provider can access exclusive regional content on (depending on the available locations) US Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney Plus, and BBC iPlayer.

How to choose a Chromebook VPN

With so many VPNs on the market these days, it's useful to know which features and tools are must-haves. Some of this will depend on your personal use case, of course, but when we're talking about Chromebooks, there are several factors worth keeping in mind when shopping for your next VPN.

First things first, your VPN should protect you online and ensure that nobody is keeping tabs on your browsing sessions. My top priority is to recommend secure services that you can rely on. I give extra kudos to VPNs that include a reliable kill switch and adhere to strong no-logging policies.

Want the toughest security?

Check out my guide to the best secure VPNs of 2024.

If you plan to use your Chromebook VPN for streaming, you'll want a speedy service that can keep up with your content. Otherwise, you'll have to endure a lot of buffering and miserable picture quality.

How fast is fast enough? Well, your device needs 5 Mbps to watch a show in high-definition (HD) and 25 Mbps to watch in 4K. If you have more than one device connected to the VPN, you'll need even more speed to ensure frustration-free streaming.

On that note, compatibility is another important factor. All of the VPNs in my list work across a ton of devices—like PCs, mobiles, game consoles, smart TVs, and, of course, Chromebooks.

Whether you're a VPN veteran or a new user, it's important that your provider of choice is easy to use. Quick-connect features are particularly handy, seeing as they'll get you connected to the VPN with one press of a button, and a clutter-free UI makes adjusting settings and customizing your app that much easier.

FAQs

What is the best VPN for a Chromebook?

Can you use a VPN on a Chromebook?

Absolutely. However, to use a VPN on a Chromebook, your provider needs to offer an Android app or a Chrome extension. This is because Chromebooks use the Chrome Operating System and are incompatible with the usual Windows desktop client.

As more and more apps become available to Chromebooks via the Google Play Store, VPNs have begun to follow suit, offering protection via their Android apps. Chrome extensions can also be installed directly within a browser—although these are, sometimes, simple proxies instead of fully-featured VPNs.

Alternatively, you can manually configure a VPN onto your Chromebook.

Can I use a free Chromebook VPN?

You can, but you'll need to be careful. Some free services are little more than poorly-disguised scams. We've come across providers that send screenshots of your device back to the developer—which totally defeats the privacy-boosting purpose of using a VPN.

There are reliable free options, however, but even these have their caveats. Premium VPNs sometimes offer a free subscription tier designed to tempt you into upgrading to a paid plan. You'll likely have to put up with ads, fewer server locations, a monthly data cap, and congested servers.

Disclaimer

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example: 1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service). 2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad. We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

River Hart
Tech Software Editor

River is a Tech Software Editor and VPN expert at TechRadar. They’re on-hand to keep VPN and cybersecurity content up-to-date and accurate. When they’re not helping readers find the best VPNs around (and the best deals), River can be found in close proximity to their PS5 or being pushed about the countryside by the lovely Welsh weather.