Some Chrome VPN extensions are missing crucial security capabilities, while others struggle to bypass geoblocks because of their constrained server networks. Even those that do function might sometimes be too sluggish due to bandwidth restrictions. Using a VPN that isn’t secure might do you more damage than good since some even expose you to viruses and adware.
To identify the best Chrome VPN extensions, I examined hundreds of them and rated them according to their unblocking capabilities, server network, security, and performance.
Overall, I discovered that using a VPN program to protect your complete computer rather than just your Chrome browser is the most dependable choice since it secures your entire system (and with stronger encryption).
ExpressVPN’s Chrome extension is my favourite choice since it functions as the app’s “remote control.” It offers the simplicity of an extension while providing top-notch encryption and limitless protection for your whole device.
ExpressVPN’s Chrome extension comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can test it out without any risk. You are entitled to a complete refund if you are dissatisfied.
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In This Article
Here is a brief overview of the best Chrome VPN extensions
ExpressVPN offers lightning-fast streaming connections, strong data security, and a global service network to unblock websites.
CyberGhost is a trustworthy and cost-free extension to access geo-restricted content. It only provides servers in four nations, however.
ZenMate – Streaming-optimized servers that provide dependable access to platforms; nonetheless, the free version offered me very poor speeds.
Private Internet Access – Built-in function to filter advertisements and viruses, as well as WebRTC leak protection to conceal your true IP address. It wasn’t the most effective in unblocking streaming websites, however.
Hotspot Shield – Catapult Hydra protocol for quick connections and top-notch security features. However, the daily data allowance for the free version is just 500 MB.
Best Chrome VPN extensions and their advantages
ExpressVPN
Advantages:
- Blazingly fast connections.
- 94+ countries and over 3,000 servers.
- WebRTC leak prevention and military-grade encryption.
- Unblocks several services, including Vudu, HBO Max, Hulu, Netflix, and Disney+.
Because of its wide network and usage of the same servers as its mobile app, ExpressVPN’s Chrome extension makes it simple to circumvent geoblocks. I put this to the test using Amazon Prime Video and Hulu. I established a connection to the Washington server, which immediately granted me access to both platforms.
Given that HD streaming only requires 5 Mbps, the download speed of 55 Mbps was amazing. This allowed me to uninterruptedly watch Dopesick on Hulu.
Also, the extension provides excellent security features. Since it serves as the app’s remote control, it safeguards your data with the same degree of security: military-grade AES 256-bit encryption, which is almost impregnable. Also, its certified no-logs policy and RAM-only servers make sure that no logs are stored.
The ExpressVPN app lacks several other functions as well. WebRTC leak prevention is included in its Chrome extension to stop websites you visit from knowing your actual location.
You are automatically connected to websites’ more secure HTTPS versions when using HTTPS Everywhere. This guarantees that your online experience will be extra secure.
It can act as a VPN program, unlike many other Chrome extensions, which cannot. This indicates that the extension safeguards all of your device’s activity, not only browser traffic.
All of the app’s functions are simply accessible through Chrome. For instance, you can use the split-tunnelling option to secure just browser traffic. However, you must first install the VPN client on your device for the extension to function.
The only slight drawback I could find with ExpressVPN is the price; the least costly package is $6.67/month. That wasn’t an issue for me, however, since it often provides large discounts all year round.
When I signed up for a full year, I was able to obtain it for 49% off. I also received three more months at no further cost. The long-term plans provide greater value since they all have the same benefits.
The Chrome extension from ExpressVPN is also risk-free to use since it is covered by a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not satisfied, you can request a full refund.
I used the available 24/7 live chat function to get in touch with assistance to try out the refund procedure. They merely asked me a few questions regarding my user experience, and they immediately granted my request. After three days, the money was restored to my account.
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CyberGhost
Advantages:
- Servers with limitless bandwidth and quick speeds in four nations.
- A stringent no-logs policy and WebRTC leak prevention.
- Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, Hulu, and other services are unblocked.
The free VPN Chrome extension from CyberGhost offers exceptional speeds and limitless capacity. I tested locations in the Netherlands, the US, and Romania to see how fast it is, and I discovered an average download speed of 25 Mbps.
I was able to view HD YouTube videos as a result. When streaming on Chrome, you won’t experience any buffering when viewing your favourite movies.
You can easily access geo-restricted content thanks to dependable servers located in four countries. It consistently unblocked Netflix US, Hulu, Disney+, and other websites throughout my testing.
I was able to watch Lucifer on Netflix without any interruptions thanks to its US server. Throughout the broadcast, I didn’t notice any connection drops.
To keep you secure online, the extension is cost-free, simple to use, and provides strong security and privacy features. I tested and discovered absolutely no IP leaks, which was remarkable.
Moreover, CyberGhost strictly adheres to the no-logs policy, so no data about you will be gathered or kept.
Nevertheless, using CyberGhost’s VPN software is more secure than using the free extension. It merely encrypts browser traffic, lacks customisable security features, and does not provide military-grade encryption.
There are only 4 server sites in total. To put that into perspective, when you sign up with CyberGhost, you get 91 server locations, complete device protection, and a ton of top-notch security features with the VPN software.
Therefore, installing the VPN client will provide you with the safest possible when using Chrome.
Prices are affordable; if you sign up for two years, a subscription costs only $2.03 per month. Although monthly subscriptions cost substantially more than annual plans, they provide the same services.
Therefore, a long-term plan offers you greater value. Also, you receive a 45-day money-back guarantee instead of a 14-day refund guarantee if you sign up for a subscription that is longer than 6 months.
The whole CyberGhost software is available to trial for free, and it comes with a generous 45-day money-back guarantee. Within that time frame, you are entitled to a refund if you’re dissatisfied.
I got in touch with the available live chat assistance to try this out. The support representative authorized my request after a short discussion regarding my experience with the service. The reimbursement was given four days later.
ZenMate
Advantages:
- 4,800+ servers, including specialized streaming servers, spread over 81+ nations.
- Good bandwidth availability and connection speeds.
- A rigorous no-logs policy and an integrated malware blocker.
- Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, Hulu, and other services are unblocked.
The Chrome extension from ZenMate provides streaming-optimized servers that make it simple to unblock streaming services. When you can’t get past challenging geo-restrictions, they are helpful.
I tested using its Netflix US-specific server throughout my testing, and I was able to access the website in under 10 seconds. I watched The Vampire Diaries for three hours without experiencing any issues because of the dependable connection.
Your data is protected by the premium Chrome extension’s strong privacy and security features. It provides AES 128-bit encryption to safeguard you from online dangers.
The malware blocker blocks harmful websites from loading on your browser, and the built-in tracking blocker inhibits third parties from monitoring your online behaviour. WebRTC leak prevention makes sure that no unwelcome IP leaks occur.
Both free and paid Chrome extensions are available from ZenMate. Only 4 server locations and non-streaming-optimized servers are available in the free edition.
Positively, it continued to unblock US Netflix when I tried it, however, there was some buffering. Streaming servers and additional security features like Smart Location and Stealth Connection are included with ZenMate Pro.
However, even the premium extension lacks an automated kill switch and offers no VPN protocol selection. Furthermore, unlike ExpressVPN’s Chrome extension, it doesn’t shield your whole computer. To get around these problems, you can upgrade to ZenMate Ultimate.
The most cost-effective plans are annual ones. You will pay to start at $1.99/month for ZenMate Pro (which is merely a browser extension). When you commit to three years, a ZenMate Ultimate membership will run you $1.99 each month.
In any case, monthly plans cost more but provide the same services. As a result, you can save money using its long-term strategy.
Also, ZenMate offers a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can test it risk-free. It is offered with all compensated plans.
I inquired about this through email to support and requested a refund out of curiosity. The representative quickly authorized my request. Within six days, I received my money back.
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Private Internet Access
Advantages:
- Unlimited bandwidth and quick connections
- Servers in more than 45 places.
- An integrated ad blocker and leak prevention for WebRTC.
- Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and other services are unblocked.
The Chrome extension from PIA enhances your online privacy with special security features. You can use it to restrict access to your device’s camera, location, and microphone.
Third-party cookies, website referrers, credit card autofill, UTM parameters, and more can all be disabled. During my testing, I didn’t find any VPN Chrome extension with this many capabilities.
Additional security features include WebRTC blocking to stop IP leaks and HTTPS Everywhere to prevent you from visiting websites that only support HTTP. The MACE function also prevents viruses and advertisements, allowing you to surf securely.
I used a variety of websites, including HuffPost, to test this functionality. The majority of the page’s advertisements were blocked, and I was spared the annoyance of pop-up windows.
The browser add-on provides servers in more than 45 places that consistently get around geoblocks. I tried 14 different servers from all around the globe, and I was able to connect to each one in less than 5 seconds. Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and Netflix US were quickly unblocked by the New York server.
The extension is not as secure as PIA’s VPN software while having some extremely great features. It doesn’t provide the same level of encryption as the app itself and only protects your traffic within the browser. Therefore, for complete security, it is preferable to use PIA’s Chrome extension in addition to the VPN software.
PIA provides annual and monthly subscriptions, although yearly plans are less expensive. I paid only $2.19 per month for my membership under their 36-month plan. The same services are available in monthly subscriptions, but they cost more money. Thus, it is preferable to adhere to long-term strategies.
Moreover, PIA’s Chrome extension is free to trial and comes with a sizable money-back guarantee. You have 30 days to get a complete refund if you don’t like it.
I emailed customer service to test this promise and requested a refund. After I explained why I needed to cancel, the representative swiftly granted my request. My money was returned in 5 days.
Hotspot Shield
Advantages:
- Quick connection times.
- Servers in over 80 countries.
- Built-in ad blocking and leak prevention for WebRTC.
- Unblocks Netflix and other services.
To reduce latency problems, particularly over long-distance connections, Hotspot Shield provides its Catapult Hydra protocol. I connected to its US, Canada, and UK servers throughout my testing.
Given that HD streaming only requires 5 Mbps, the fact that the rates never fell below 18 Mbps is amazing. Without any buffering, I watched five episodes of Schitt’s Creek on Netflix US.
It provides great privacy and security features. Ad and tracker blockers are included in the extension, which eliminates adverts and stops spying.
I put it to the test when visiting BuzzFeed, and it completely blocked all of the advertisements. Also, I experienced quicker loading times and had no adware worries.
The free extension provided by Hotspot Shield is also rather constrained. You are limited to a single US-based server and a daily bandwidth allowance of 500 MB, which is only enough to watch in SD for roughly 30 minutes. In contrast, the paid version doesn’t have data caps and offers servers in more than 80 countries.
Even the updated browser extension has limitations, however. There isn’t a kill switch either. However, when you subscribe to their VPN software, you receive 1,800 servers, complete device security, and crucial features like an automated kill switch.
Hotspot Shield is rather pricey; the very minimum monthly cost is $2.99. However, if you choose a yearly plan, you can save up to 77% on your membership. Long-term subscriptions are more cost-effective since all of the plans have the same benefits.
With a 45-day money-back guarantee, you can test Hotspot Shield risk-free if you’re not ready to commit. After a few weeks of using the service, I used the available 24/7 live chat facility to get in touch with customer care and ask for a refund.
They questioned my motivation for leaving. I explained why I wanted a refund, and it was granted. After seven days, the money was restored to my account.
Choosing the Best Chrome VPN Extension for yourself
Finding a trustworthy VPN extension for Chrome might be difficult with so many alternatives available. When ranking these VPN Chrome extensions, I used this criterion. When selecting one, you should also be aware of the following:
Speed
Select a VPN extension that provides quick downloads. You can watch high-quality material in this manner without experiencing any latency. All of the listed extensions have common speeds of at least 15 Mbps (3 times the requirement for HD streaming).
A vast network of servers
Choose an extension with many servers spread out all around the globe. This enables you to change servers if you experience sluggish performance. There are many servers available for the extensions I’ve listed (and associated VPN applications).
Streaming
Choose a provider that reliably unblocks streaming services like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and others. More geo-restricted material can be accessed in this manner, from anywhere.
Privacy and security
Choose a Chrome VPN extension with robust security features. This includes a strict no-logs policy, WebRTC leak protection, and encryption of the highest level. Ad blockers that come built-in are also useful. This guarantees a secure browsing environment.
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Unrestricted bandwidth
You want a service with limitless bandwidth. You can uninterruptedly binge-watch your favourite programs in this manner. The list’s extensions are all limitless bandwidth extensions.
How to Install a VPN Extension on Chrome in 3 Simple Steps
- Choose a VPN using a Chrome extension. Because of its very fast speeds, industry-leading security, and extensive server network, I suggest ExpressVPN for Chrome.
- The browser extension should be added. Locate the VPN extension in the Chrome Web Store. Click “Add to Chrome” after that.
- Make sure your connection is secure. You just need to connect to a server, log into your account, and you’re ready to go!
Which is better for Chrome: VPN App vs. VPN Browser Extension?
VPN Extensions
A VPN extension might be a great option if all you want to do is hide your location and access prohibited websites. Your internet connection is protected and your IP address is concealed.
An extension, however, only functions in the browser. This implies that your connection will become insecure if you switch from your browser to another program.
The majority of VPN extensions are also relatively constrained. They have fewer servers, provide a lower degree of protection than VPN software, and are susceptible to WebRTC breaches.
Only the Chrome extension from ExpressVPN on our list offers all the functionality of their full-featured VPN client.
VPN Apps
A VPN app is a better option if you’re worried about your online privacy and security. A VPN app is a piece of software that creates an encrypted virtual tunnel for all of your device’s communications. Everything you do online is secure since it covers your whole network (not just your browser).
An app gives you access to a large number of servers, while browser extensions often only provide a small number of server locations. You have greater control over the server you connect to thanks to this.
Also, since you can change to a different server if the one you’re connected to is unreliable, this makes unblocking streaming platforms simpler.
You also get sophisticated features that the majority of extensions don’t provide. This includes the strongest encryption available, split tunnelling, an automatic kill switch, and DNS leak protection.
FAQs on the Top VPN Chrome Extensions
Are Chrome VPN extensions safer than incognito mode?
Yes. Only your browser history and cookies are not saved while in incognito mode. It neither encrypts your data nor hides your IP address. This implies that your ISP, employer, or the websites you visit can still monitor your activities.
A trustworthy VPN extension, on the other hand, encrypts your data and conceals your IP address. Since it seems that you are using Chrome from a different location, your browsing sessions are thus kept secret.
Do Android and iOS have VPN Chrome extensions?
No. For iOS and Android, there are no Chrome extensions available. Using a VPN app is preferable if you want to protect your Android and iOS devices because your entire device will be secured (not just your browser traffic). Every VPN Chrome extension on this list also provides complete VPN clients for iOS and Android.
Does Google Chrome come with an integrated VPN?
No, Google Chrome does not come with a VPN preinstalled. Although it has an incognito mode that prevents the storage of your browser history, it cannot provide the same level of security as a VPN extension.
To prevent anyone from connecting your browsing activity to you personally, a VPN extension will mask your IP address and encrypt it.
There are plenty of accessible third-party extensions, however, I’ve selected the top VPN extensions for Chrome. They are all secure to use and simple to install. Additionally, a few of them are even free!
What are the top free VPN extensions for Chrome?
Free VPN Chrome extensions are available from Hotspot Shield, Zenmate, and CyberGhost, and they’re all excellent. They provide enough security, location spoofing, and protection against WebRTC breaches.
They are not as secure as their respective VPN apps, however, and they do not safeguard your traffic outside of Chrome. Also, since there are so few server locations available, traffic congestion can cause your speeds to drop.
A complete VPN software secures your whole device and provides more flexibility, cutting-edge security features, and a large selection of servers. For the highest security and dependability, it is thus preferable to combine a VPN extension with a VPN client.
Can I avoid WebRTC leaks with a VPN Chrome extension?
WebRTC leak protection is something that some VPN extensions provide, but not all of them. Therefore, it’s crucial to choose a provider with this function included to avoid unintentionally disclosing your IP address to a third-party website, person, or business.
Any of the Chrome extensions on this list I used did not cause any WebRTC leaks, therefore they are all reliable choices.
A final thought on choosing a VPN Extension for Chrome
You can access geo-blocked websites and improve your online security by using a VPN Chrome extension. However, many Chrome VPN extensions don’t provide very good protection, while others have sluggish connections and only provide a small number of servers.
All of the Chrome extensions on the list above are excellent choices. However, since it provides lightning-fast connections and the same degree of protection as its VPN client, ExpressVPN’s Chrome extension is the finest.
Even better, ExpressVPN’s Chrome extension comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can test it out risk-free. You can simply get your money back if you’re dissatisfied.