Best VPN for Mac 2026: Fastest & safest Mac VPNs tested by experts

• 9,000 servers (130 countries)
• 10 simultaneous connections

Why we like NordVPN: Nord combines strong security, fast speeds, lots of features, and an easy-to-use experience, making it one of the best all-round VPNs.

NordVPN is one of the best all-round VPNs for Mac users, especially beginners and everyday users who want a simple, reliable experience without technical complexity. Its clean interface and intuitive design make it incredibly easy to use – connecting to a server or switching locations takes just a couple of clicks. This simplicity makes it ideal for families or anyone managing multiple devices.

Performance is a standout strength. In testing on an M3 MacBook Pro, NordVPN delivered exceptional speeds, averaging around 820 Mbps on nearby servers. Even with the VPN enabled, speed dropped by only about 12%, which is excellent compared to the 20–50% reductions often seen with competitors. It also maintained stable connections through sleep and wake cycles, an area where many VPNs struggle on macOS. Overall, it’s one of the fastest VPNs available and performs consistently well for streaming, browsing, and general use.

NordVPN also offers a strong set of security features. It includes end-to-end encryption, an independently audited no-logs policy, and built-in malware protection with ad and tracker blocking. Additional tools like Dark Web Monitor provide alerts if your data is compromised. Higher-tier plans include extras such as a password manager (NordPass) and encrypted cloud storage.

With thousands of servers worldwide and support for up to ten simultaneous devices, it works seamlessly across Mac, iPhone, iPad, and more.

The main drawback is pricing. While competitive overall, the structure can be confusing and often pushes users toward long-term plans for the best value, with potential price increases on renewal.

Verdict: NordVPN is easy to recommend – particularly for newcomers seeking speed, security, and simplicity.

Prices change all the time, so take a look at the prices and plans at NordVPN.com.

• 4,500+ servers in 100 countries
• Unlimited simultaneous connections

Why we like Surfshark: Surfshark is a cheap, highly secure and privacy-focused VPN offering that reliably unblocks content and delivers strong performance. The unlimited simultaneous connections is a bonus too.

Surfshark is one of the best-value VPNs available for Mac, striking a strong balance between price, performance, and features. It’s particularly well suited to budget-conscious users who still want a full-featured service, as well as anyone managing multiple Apple devices – thanks to its standout offering of unlimited simultaneous connections.

In testing on an M3 MacBook Air, Surfshark delivered impressively smooth performance with no noticeable slowdown. Earlier performance issues appear to have been resolved, and the app now runs reliably and consistently on macOS. Everyday tasks like streaming, browsing, and video calls remain unaffected, making it a solid choice for both casual and regular VPN users.

The macOS app is clean and generally easy to use, with simple connection controls and a beginner-friendly layout. That said, the growing number of integrated features adds a slight layer of complexity. Beyond standard VPN functionality, Surfshark includes extras such as antivirus protection, breach alerts, private search, and even identity protection tools (on higher-tier plans). While this broader feature set is impressive, some tools – like private search – can feel inconsistent or less polished.

Core VPN features are strong, including a reliable kill switch, support for modern protocols like WireGuard, and a no-logs privacy approach. It also performs well at bypassing geo-restrictions for streaming and offers solid global server coverage, though its network is smaller than some top competitors.

There are minor downsides: speeds can occasionally be less consistent than premium rivals like NordVPN or ExpressVPN, and the best pricing requires long-term plans. However, Surfshark undercuts those competitors significantly on cost.

Verdict: Overall, Surfshark is a high-value, all-round VPN for Mac users – delivering most of what top-tier services offer at a much more accessible price.

Sign up to Surfshark here.

• 3,000 servers in 105+ countries
• 8 simultaneous connections

Why we like ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN is one of the fastest and easiest VPNs to use with strong overall performance and simplicity.

ExpressVPN is one of the most consistent VPNs for streaming on Mac. In testing, it reliably accessed major platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+ without the need to switch servers—something many competitors still struggle with. While its speeds are slightly behind top performers like NordVPN, they remain more than fast enough for smooth 4K streaming, browsing, and downloads.

A key strength of ExpressVPN is its simplicity. The macOS app is clean, intuitive, and requires very little setup, making it an excellent choice for beginners or anyone who wants a no-fuss VPN experience. Features are focused on doing the essentials well rather than overwhelming users with extras. These include a kill switch to prevent IP leaks, split tunnelling for app-specific routing, and the Lightway protocol, which is designed for speed and efficiency. Privacy is also a major focus, with TrustedServer technology (RAM-only servers) and a strict no-logs policy.

Performance is consistently strong, with stable connections and reliable access to geo-blocked content. This makes it particularly appealing for users who prioritise streaming and ease of use over deep customisation.

However, ExpressVPN does come at a premium price. It’s more expensive than many rivals, and its newer tiered pricing structure offers less flexibility. Advanced users may also find the feature set somewhat limited compared to competitors that offer more granular controls.

Verdict: ExpressVPN stands out as a fast, user-friendly, and highly reliable VPN for Mac. It may not be the cheapest or most feature-rich option, but for those who value simplicity, privacy, and hassle-free streaming, it delivers an excellent all-round experience.

See ExpressVPN subscription plans here.

• 6,500+ servers in 100+ countries (access servers in 5 countries on free plan, on one device)
• 10 simultaneous connections on paid plan

Why we like ProtonVPN: Proton VPN offers a free plan, strong speeds, and an easy-to-use interface, making it one of our top VPN choices overall.

Proton VPN on Mac stands out as one of the few genuinely trustworthy free VPN options, making it a strong choice for users who prioritise privacy without wanting to commit to a subscription.

Unlike many free VPNs that impose strict data caps or questionable practices, Proton VPN offers unlimited data on its free tier – an unusually generous feature.

The free plan is best suited to privacy-conscious users who want safe, basic protection for browsing, though it comes with trade-offs. Speeds are noticeably slower compared to paid tiers, and server access is limited, which can affect performance and flexibility. Streaming support is also restricted, making it less ideal for users primarily interested in accessing geo-blocked content.

Based in Switzerland, it benefits from strong privacy laws and operates with a clear no-logs policy, reinforcing its reputation as a security-first service.

On Mac, setup is straightforward, and the app is well-designed, though not the simplest. The interface leans slightly toward intermediate users, offering more control and features than beginner-focused VPNs. While this adds flexibility, it may feel a bit complex for those new to VPNs.

Paid plans significantly expand Proton VPN’s capabilities, unlocking faster speeds, access to a large global server network (spanning 100+ countries), and advanced features such as a kill switch, Secure Core multi-hop routing, ad and tracker blocking, and port forwarding. These features make it a more powerful option for demanding users.

Verdict: Proton VPN is best described as a privacy-first VPN with one of the strongest free offerings available. While it may not match the fastest competitors or excel in streaming performance, it delivers excellent security, transparency, and value – especially for Mac users seeking a safe and reliable free VPN.

Sign up for Proton’s subscription plans here.

• 600+ servers accords approx 50 countries
• 5 connections

Why we like Mullvad: Mullvad offers exceptional privacy and anonymity with a simple, transparent service that performs reliably without requiring any personal information to use.

Mullvad is one of the most privacy-focused VPNs available, and its Mac app reflects that philosophy with a simple, no-nonsense approach. Unlike most VPN services, Mullvad doesn’t require an email address to sign up – instead, you’re given a random account number, making it one of the most anonymous options on the market.

On macOS, the app is clean and straightforward. It’s easy to connect, switch servers, and adjust basic settings, making it suitable even for less experienced users. That said, it lacks some of the polish and advanced convenience features you’ll find in competitors like NordVPN or ExpressVPN.

In terms of performance, Mullvad delivers solid speeds that are more than adequate for everyday use, including browsing, streaming, and downloads. While it’s not the fastest VPN available, it’s consistent and reliable, which is arguably more important for most users.

Mullvad includes key features such as WireGuard and OpenVPN support, a built-in kill switch, split tunnelling, and optional multi-hop connections. Its strict no-logs policy and transparency are standout strengths, making it particularly appealing for privacy-conscious users.

However, there are some trade-offs. The server network is relatively small compared to leading VPNs, and the service is limited to five simultaneous connections. It’s also not the strongest choice for streaming, as access to geo-restricted platforms can be inconsistent.

Verdict: Mullvad is best suited to users who prioritise privacy and simplicity over extra features. While it may not compete with the biggest VPNs in terms of scale or streaming performance, it remains a highly trustworthy and capable option – especially for those who want to stay anonymous online.

Sign up to Mullvad here.

• 800+ servers in 49+ countries
• 10 simultaneous connections

Why we like FastestVPN: FastestVPN offers a simple, beginner-friendly experience with solid core features at a very low price that is even lower if you use our code at checkout.

FastestVPN for Mac is best suited to beginners or budget-conscious users who want a simple, low-cost VPN without needing advanced features. It’s particularly appealing if you’re new to VPNs, thanks to its straightforward setup and easy-to-use macOS app.

One of its biggest strengths is value for money. FastestVPN is often available at a very low price, including lifetime plans, which makes it stand out from more expensive competitors. It’s normally $35, but with our discount code: foundryexclusive you can get it for $25.

Despite the lower cost, it includes a solid range of core features such as a kill switch, split tunnelling, multiple protocols (including WireGuard), and support for streaming and P2P. Recent updates have also improved its overall feature set, making it more competitive than it used to be.

In terms of performance, FastestVPN delivers good but not class-leading speeds. It’s fast enough for everyday tasks like browsing and streaming, but it doesn’t match the top-tier performance of services like NordVPN or ExpressVPN. Stability is generally reliable, though not exceptional.

The macOS app is clean and beginner-friendly, with a simple interface that makes connecting to servers quick and hassle-free. This ease of use is one of its strongest points, especially for less technical users.

FastestVPN allows up to 10 simultaneous connections, which is above average and useful if you have multiple devices. However, its server network is relatively small, with around 800 servers in roughly 49 countries – significantly fewer than leading VPN providers.

Verdict: FastestVPN is a solid entry-level option. It offers good value, decent performance, and ease of use, but it falls short of the best VPNs in terms of speed, server coverage, and advanced features.

See FastestVPNs plans here.

• 2,600+ servers in 90 countries
• 10 simultaneous connections

Why we like Hide.me: Hide.me offers a rare combination of strong privacy features, generous free plan, and advanced customisation options, making it especially appealing for security-focused Mac users.

Hide.me is a privacy-focused VPN that stands out primarily for offering one of the best free plans available on macOS. It’s a strong choice for users who want a secure, no-cost VPN, though its paid version faces stiff competition from more polished rivals.

On Mac, Hide.me delivers a clean and generally user-friendly experience. The app is easy to navigate for basic tasks like connecting to a server, but it also includes a wide range of advanced settings. Features such as split tunnelling, a kill switch, multiple protocol options (including WireGuard and OpenVPN), and ad/tracker blocking make it more configurable than many competitors. That said, some features are less fully implemented on macOS than on Windows, and the interface can feel slightly dated.

Performance is solid but not exceptional. Speeds are good enough for everyday browsing and streaming, but Hide.me doesn’t match the fastest VPNs like NordVPN or ExpressVPN. Connections are generally stable, though performance can vary depending on server location.

Hide.me allows up to 10 simultaneous connections, which is above average and makes it a practical option for users with multiple devices. Its server network – around 2,600 servers across 90+ locations – is decent but smaller than leading VPN providers.

Verdict: Overall, Hide.me is best suited to privacy-conscious users and those looking for a reliable free VPN on Mac. While it offers strong security and a generous feature set, its slower speeds, smaller network, and less polished experience mean it falls short of the very top-tier VPN services in its paid form.

See full Hide.me pricing here

• 35,000+ servers, 91 countries
• Unlimited connections

Why we like Private Internet Access (PIA): Private Internet Access offers an unusually powerful, highly customisable feature set on macOS with strong performance and unlimited device connections at a competitive price.

Private Internet Access (PIA) is a powerful and highly configurable VPN that stands out for the sheer number of features it offers on macOS – something many competitors still lag behind on. While most Mac VPN apps are simplified versions of their Windows counterparts, PIA delivers near feature parity, making it a strong choice for more advanced users.

The app includes a wide range of tools, such as split tunnelling, custom DNS settings, port forwarding, and automation rules that can trigger connections based on network conditions. This level of control is ideal if you want to fine-tune your VPN setup, but it does come at the cost of simplicity. The interface can feel slightly overwhelming at first, and it’s not quite as intuitive as more beginner-friendly options like ExpressVPN.

In terms of performance, PIA delivers solid download speeds. In Macworld’s testing on a 60 Mbps connection, download speeds dropped by only around 8%, which is competitive with many top VPNs. However, upload speeds took a more noticeable hit, dropping by roughly 25%, which could be a drawback for users who frequently upload files or use cloud services.

One of PIA’s biggest advantages is its value. It supports unlimited simultaneous connections, making it a great option for households with multiple devices. It also boasts one of the largest server networks in the industry, with tens of thousands of servers worldwide.

Verdict: Private Internet Access is best suited to experienced users who want a feature-rich VPN with plenty of customisation. While it’s not the simplest or fastest option available, it offers excellent flexibility and strong overall performance for Mac users willing to explore its settings.

Subscribe to Private Internet Access here.

• Around 9,000 servers in 100 countries
• 7 simultaneous connections

Why we like CyberGhost: It offers a simple, beginner-friendly experience with a large server network and solid everyday performance at a good price.

CyberGhost is a beginner-friendly VPN for Mac that focuses on simplicity, affordability, and broad server coverage rather than cutting-edge performance or advanced features. It’s a strong choice for casual users who want an easy way to stay safe online, especially when using public Wi-Fi or accessing streaming content.

The macOS app is particularly straightforward to use. Installation is quick, and once launched, you’re presented with a clean interface and a simple connect button. CyberGhost also includes helpful server recommendations for specific activities like streaming or downloading, making it easy for less experienced users to get started without needing to tweak settings.

In terms of features, CyberGhost covers the essentials well. It includes an automatic kill switch, split tunnelling, ad and tracker blocking, and “Smart Rules” that can automatically connect the VPN on certain networks. However, it lacks more advanced privacy tools found in competitors, such as multi-hop routing or deeper customisation options.

Performance is solid but not class-leading. In testing on a 60 Mbps connection, CyberGhost delivered speeds of around 45–50 Mbps using WireGuard, retaining roughly 75–85% of the base speed. That’s perfectly adequate for streaming and everyday browsing, though noticeably slower than top-tier VPNs like NordVPN or ExpressVPN.

CyberGhost allows up to seven simultaneous connections and offers access to a large network of over 9,000 servers across more than 100 countries, giving users plenty of choice.

Verdict: CyberGhost is best suited to beginners or users who prioritise ease of use and value for money over maximum speed or advanced features.

See CyberGhost pricing here.

• More than 50 servers
• Six device limit

Why we like ClearVPN: It offers an exceptionally simple, beginner-friendly Mac experience that makes using a VPN easy without any technical setup or complexity.

ClearVPN is designed with simplicity in mind, making it one of the most approachable VPNs available for Mac users. If you’re new to VPNs and don’t want to deal with complicated settings or server lists, it’s an appealing option.

The app focuses on ease of use above all else. Instead of manually choosing servers, ClearVPN offers guided shortcuts for specific tasks, such as streaming or browsing more privately. The interface is clean, modern, and easy to navigate, making setup and daily use straightforward even for complete beginners.

However, this simplicity comes at the cost of flexibility. Compared to leading VPNs like NordVPN or ExpressVPN, ClearVPN lacks several advanced features, including split tunnelling. Power users may find the lack of control and configuration options limiting.

Performance is another area where ClearVPN falls short of top competitors. While speeds are generally adequate for everyday browsing and streaming, it isn’t among the fastest VPNs available. The relatively small server network also means fewer location options and potentially less consistent performance compared to larger providers.

ClearVPN allows up to six simultaneous connections, which is reasonable for most users covering a Mac, iPhone, and a few additional devices.

Verdict: ClearVPN is best suited to beginners who prioritise ease of use over performance and features. It’s a solid choice if you want a simple, no-fuss VPN experience on macOS, but more advanced users will likely prefer a more powerful alternative with faster speeds and greater flexibility.

See full ClearVPN pricing here.

• 6,500 servers, 78 countries
• 10 simultaneous connections

Why we like PureVPN: It combines an easy-to-use Mac app with reliable performance, solid streaming access, and a large server network at a reasonable price.

PureVPN is a solid, user-friendly VPN for Mac that focuses on ease of use and broad functionality rather than top-tier performance. It’s best suited to casual users who want a straightforward way to improve privacy, access geo-restricted content, and protect multiple devices without dealing with a complex interface.

One of PureVPN’s biggest strengths is its simplicity. The macOS app is clean, modern, and easy to navigate, making it particularly appealing for beginners. Setup is quick, and features like server selection and connection modes are clearly presented. Despite this simplicity, it still includes key features such as a kill switch, split tunnelling, and support for modern protocols like WireGuard.

In terms of performance, PureVPN delivers reliable speeds suitable for everyday tasks like streaming and browsing, though it doesn’t match the fastest competitors such as NordVPN or ExpressVPN. It performs well enough for HD streaming and general use, but users looking for maximum speed may find better options elsewhere.

PureVPN also offers a large server network, with thousands of servers across dozens of countries, although some are virtual rather than physically located in those regions. It supports up to 10 simultaneous connections, which is generous, though not industry-leading.

There are some downsides. The pricing structure can be confusing, with the best value tied to long-term plans, and some advanced features are only available as paid add-ons. It also lacks a standout feature that clearly differentiates it from top-tier VPNs.

Verdict: PureVPN is a dependable mid-range VPN for Mac. It’s easy to use, feature-rich, and versatile, but falls short of the very best in speed and innovation.

See PureVPN offers here.

• Undisclosed number of servers, 30-44 countries
• 5 devices

Why we like Duck Duck Go VPN: It is a simple, privacy-focused experience that’s easy to use and integrates seamlessly with the DuckDuckGo browser, making it ideal for beginners.

DuckDuckGo’s VPN for Mac is a privacy-focused, lightweight option aimed at users who value simplicity over advanced functionality. Built into the DuckDuckGo browser, it’s clearly designed for people already using the company’s ecosystem who want an extra layer of protection without dealing with complex settings or configuration.

The biggest strength of DuckDuckGo VPN is its ease of use. Setup is minimal, and because it’s integrated directly into the browser, you can enable it in just a few clicks. This makes it particularly appealing for beginners or less technical users. In everyday use, performance is solid, with only a small drop in speed, making it suitable for browsing, streaming, and general online activity.

However, this simplicity comes with trade-offs. Compared to leading VPNs, DuckDuckGo’s feature set is very limited. There’s no kill switch, which is a significant omission from a security standpoint, and users don’t have access to advanced controls like protocol selection or custom configuration. The server network is also relatively small, which can limit both performance and flexibility when trying to access content from different regions.

The VPN allows up to five simultaneous connections, which is reasonable but not particularly competitive in a market where many providers now offer unlimited devices. While it does a good job of masking your IP address and providing basic encryption, it lacks the depth and versatility of more established VPN services.

Verdict: DuckDuckGo VPN for Mac is best suited to casual users who want a simple, privacy-first solution with minimal effort. For more demanding users—especially those looking for stronger security features, broader server coverage, or advanced controls—it falls short of the top-tier VPNs on the market.

• 10,000 servers, 80 countries/250+ locations
• 5 devices

Why we like X-VPN: It combines a free plan, strong streaming access, and an easy-to-use Mac app, making it a good entry-level VPN despite its slower speeds.

X-VPN is a budget-friendly VPN that’s clearly aimed at beginners and casual users, offering both a free plan and a low-cost premium tier. On macOS, it provides a simple, accessible experience, making it a decent option if you’re new to VPNs or just want something quick to set up.

One of X-VPN’s biggest strengths is its ease of use. The Mac app is straightforward, with a clean interface that lets you connect quickly without needing to adjust technical settings. It also includes useful features such as a kill switch, split tunnelling, and streaming-optimised servers, which help it cover the basics well.

The service is particularly strong for streaming and geo-unblocking. In testing, it was able to access popular platforms reliably, making it a good choice if your main goal is watching content from other regions.

However, performance is where X-VPN falls short compared to leading competitors. Our review notes a noticeable drop in speeds, putting it behind faster services like NordVPN and ExpressVPN. While it’s still usable for browsing and streaming, it may not be ideal for heavy downloads or users who prioritise maximum speed.

X-VPN allows up to five simultaneous connections, which is lower than some rivals that now offer unlimited devices. Its server network is described as large and growing, though it lacks the transparency and scale of top-tier providers.

Verdict: X-VPN is a solid entry-level VPN for Mac, especially if you’re looking for a free or affordable option. However, if speed and performance are your top priorities, there are stronger alternatives available.

• More than 245 servers, 32 countries
• 5 devices

Why we like Malwarebytes Privacy VPN: It offers a simple, easy-to-use Mac experience with solid basic security, especially for users already in the Malwarebytes ecosystem.

Malwarebytes Privacy VPN is a straightforward option for Mac users who want simple, built-in protection without the complexity of more advanced services. It’s particularly well suited to beginners or those already using Malwarebytes for antivirus, as the VPN integrates neatly into its wider security ecosystem.

The macOS app is one of its strongest points. It’s clean, minimal, and easy to use, with a “connect and go” design that requires little configuration. Under the hood, it uses the WireGuard protocol with strong encryption, delivering solid baseline security for everyday browsing and public Wi-Fi use.

Performance is respectable rather than exceptional. Speeds are generally fast enough for streaming and general use, especially on nearby servers, but it doesn’t match the top-tier performance of rivals like NordVPN or ExpressVPN. The relatively small server network (around 40+ countries) also limits flexibility.

Feature-wise, it covers the essentials, including a kill switch, split tunnelling, and DNS leak protection, but lacks more advanced tools found in premium VPNs. With a limit of five simultaneous connections, it’s also less generous than many competitors.

Verdict: Malwarebytes VPN is a good entry-level choice, but power users may find it too limited.

See full Maywarebytes pricing here

• 2,000+ server in 65 countries
• 5 – 10 devices depending on plan

Why we like Norton Ultra VPN: It combines simple, beginner-friendly protection with useful built-in security tools like a password manager and dark web monitoring in one convenient package.

Norton Ultra VPN on Mac is best suited to users already invested in Norton’s wider security ecosystem, rather than those looking for a standalone, high-performance VPN. It’s particularly appealing for beginners thanks to its simple interface and seamless integration with Norton’s broader suite of tools.

One of its main strengths is the bundled extras, which include a password manager, dark web monitoring and cloud storage. This makes it feel more like a full security package than just a VPN. Basic privacy features such as encryption and IP masking are included, but the overall feature set is fairly limited compared to specialist VPNs.

Performance is adequate for everyday use, but speeds lag behind leading services like NordVPN and ExpressVPN. The server network is not a standout, and the lack of browser extensions and advanced configuration options may disappoint more experienced users.

Norton Ultra VPN allows around 5 simultaneous connections on its standard plan, increasing to 10 on higher tiers. Pricing is annual-only and rises after the first year.

Verdict: It’s a convenient, beginner-friendly option – but it struggles to compete with the best VPNs in terms of speed, features and flexibility.

See full Norton Ultra VPN pricing here