The best Google Chromebook VPN 2024
Secure your Chromebook, boost your digital privacy, and unblock overseas content with one of the best VPNs available.
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 – and that's where the best VPNs for Chromebook enter the picture.
The TechRadar team has put today's best VPNs to the test to bring you our in-depth rankings and analysis. We've also compared the speeds, features, and Chromebook apps of our top contenders, to help you find the very best VPN for you and your Chromebook.
Keep scrolling to check out our reviews, and see which VPN providers have edged out the competition to land a spot in our top 5.
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 – from $6.67 per month
The best Chromebook VPN
ExpressVPN sits at the top of my rankings thanks, in no small part, to its ease of use. You don't have to be an expert to get started with ExpressVPN – in fact, the service handles all of the super-techy configurations for you during setup with automations. I also like that ExpressVPN's one-click connect feature pairs you with the quickest, most secure connection in a heartbeat. Take ExpressVPN for a risk-free test drive with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. NordVPN – from $3.09 per month
The best VPN overall
NordVPN is the total package – it's quick, secure, and incredibly easy to use. It's a great pick for streaming, too, and unblocks big-name platforms (like Netflix and BBC iPlayer) without any hiccups, every time. What's more, you're getting built-in ad-blocking and malware-prevention tools that'll cover your back as you go about your day-to-day browsing. Plus, you can see how it stacks up against ExpressVPN with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
3. Proton VPN – from $4.49 per month
The best free Chromebook VPN
I'm usually iffy about free services, but Proton VPN proves that it is possible to get something for nothing. Free plans include unlimited bandwidth and all the features you need to safeguard your digital privacy. However, if you upgrade, you'll find that Proton VPN excels at unblocking streaming platforms from around the world. Check out Proton VPN in your own time with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
The best Google Chromebook VPNs in 2024
Why you can trust TechRadar
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
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
✔️ 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.
❌ 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.
🔒 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.
Visit our ExpressVPN review for all the details about this industry-leading provider.
There's a good reason why ExpressVPN claims a top spot in our overall 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.
Attributes | Notes | Rating |
---|---|---|
Design | A modern, sleek UI with features right where they should be | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Ease of use | All apps, including the Chrome extension, are incredibly easy to navigate | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Performance | One of the quickest providers I've tested recently | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Unblocking | Unblocks all of the most popular streaming platforms, like Netflix and Amazon Prime | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Security and privacy | Robust encryption and an audited no-logs policy | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Customer support | 24//7 live chat support is always available | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Price | More expensive than the competition, but jam-packed with quality features | ⭐⭐⭐ |
The best Chromebook VPN for streaming
2. NordVPN
A lightning-fast provider that's packed with features
Number of servers: over 6,000 | Server locations: 80 | Simultaneous connections: 10 | Chromebook installation: Chrome extension, Android app
✔️ 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.
❌ 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.
🔒 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.
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 ,6,000 servers in 111 countries – 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 one of the fastest VPNs 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.
Attributes | Notes | Rating |
---|---|---|
Design | A unique design, but ExpressVPN is cleaner | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Ease of use | Features are intuitive on Chromebook, but there's a lack of attention to detail | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Performance | You won't find a faster VPN | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Unblocking | Can access Netflix libraries from around the world with ease | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Security and privacy | Built-in ad-blocking and antivirus tools are welcome extras | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Customer support | Awesome 24/7 live support is available via live chat | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Price | Modest prices for a super-secure service | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
The best free Chromebook VPN
3. Proton VPN
Excellent Chromebook VPN with free plan
Number of servers: over 8,900 | Server locations: 85 | Simultaneous connections: 10 | Chromebook installation: Android app
✔️ 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.
❌ 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.
🔒 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.
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.
Attributes | Notes | Rating |
---|---|---|
Design | A sleek dark mode interface that stands out from the crowd | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Ease of use | Somewhat finnicky on desktop, but smoother on mobile | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Performance | Not a chart topper, but still reliably quick | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Unblocking | Paid users get access to all sorts of popular streaming services | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Security and privacy | Tons of security tools and add-ons to play with | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Customer support | Technical support is readily accessible although agents are scarce | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Price | Premium plans are on the pricey side, but there's a great free alternative | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Other VPNs I've tested and recommend
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
✔️ 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.
❌ 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.
🔒 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.
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.
Attributes | Notes | Rating |
---|---|---|
Design | Lots of features, but they're all well-designed | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Ease of use | Connecting is quick and easy, and apps are intuitive | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Performance | A lightning-fast service | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Unblocking | Unblocks most in-demand platforms | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Security and privacy | Blocks trackers and ads, and boasts tough encryption | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Customer support | 24/7 live chat support, but support articles could use some TLC | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Price | Bargain prices and unlimited connections | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
5. CyberGhost VPN
Great configurability for your Google Chromebook
Number of servers: over 9,260 | Server locations: 126 | Simultaneous connections: 7 | Chromebook installation: Android app, manual
✔️ You want a user-friendly service: CyberGhost is a great pick for VPN newbies, thanks to its clutter-free Chromebook interface and intuitive tools.
✔️ You want to try before buying: put CyberGhost to the test with an especially generous 45-day money-back guarantee.
❌ 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.
🔒 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.
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. Essentially, you'll have your pick of content – whether that's streaming platforms, social media sites, or news sources otherwise inaccessible 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.
CyberGhost isn't without its quirks, of course, and fans of Australian streaming content will be disappointed to learn that the provider didn't unblock 10 Play during my tests. The support site could use some TLC, too. Currently, you'll have to sift through an unorganized knowledgebase of rarely updated articles – which isn't ideal if you're looking to do your own troubleshooting.
On a brighter note, CyberGhost's Chromebook apps are nice and easy to use – even if you're totally new to VPNs. The UI is simple and clean, not crammed with clutter, and all of the VPN features are exactly where you'd expect them to be.
Attributes | Notes | Rating |
---|---|---|
Design | Plenty of customization options | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Ease of use | Ideal for anyone looking for simplicity | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Performance | Fantastic speeds well-suited to HD streaming | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Unblocking | Handy streaming servers and access to a long list of sites | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Security and privacy | Some issues, but otherwise solid encryption | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Customer support | On-site content could be improved, but agents are helpful | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Price | Modest prices for a reliable service | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
How we test VPN services - our review methodology
Feature analysis: The first step of our review process begins with the provider's website. We'll take a close look at the features on offer, so we can gather as many details as we can about network size, server locations, and the available protocols and encryption methods. VPN apps also vary massively from platform to platform. For our Chromebook reviews, we'll compare the features to those available on Windows and Mac to see if anything is missing. This is the part of our process where we evaluate the Chromebook app's UI. Is there a lot of clutter on the screen? How easy is it to find key features?
Privacy and security: Then, we'll check to see whether the VPN has undergone an independent third-party audit. If so, when was it, and is it accessible to the public? If not, why not? We'll also conduct a number of our own proprietary tests to determine whether the VPN's kill switch, DNS leak protection, and other security features are working as they should.
Performance: Next, we'll put the VPN's speed to the test using a variety of devices. Our 1 Gbps internet connection allows us to monitor VPN speeds at different points during the day to paint a more in-depth picture of the VPN's performance. We'll also see how the VPN holds up during day-to-day browsing. These tests (which include evaluating how well the VPN handles HD streaming) tell us how the service behaves in the real-world.
Unblocking: On the subject of streaming, our next tests put the VPn's unblocking power under the microscope. We'll attempt to access region-restricted content on platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and more.
Support: Finally, we dig in to the customer service. We'll reach out to the team via live chat support or email, depending on what's available - and we're looking for timely and effective replies. We'll also take a look at what Chromebook-specific resources are available in the provider's knowledgebase, including set-up tutorials and troubleshooting guides.
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.
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?
ExpressVPN retains the top billing as the best Chromebook VPN in 2024. It boasts a wide array of tools and intuitive apps for all of the devices in your home. Plus, thanks to its proprietary Lightway protocol, you'll enjoy super-fast speeds that are ideal for streaming in HD or 4K.
Pick up a 12-month ExpressVPN plan to get an extra 3 months of protection for free.
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.
As a digital privacy advocate and expert, he's spent the past four years leveraging his master's degree to research VPNs, cryptography, and other cybersecurity topics.
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.
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