10 Best VPNs for Chromebook (Free & Paid)

While numerous VPN services cater to Windows users, what about Chromebook owners? Can they establish a private network? Fortunately, Chromebook users can now install and utilize many popular VPN apps via the Play Store. Alternatively, for those without Play Store access, a Chrome extension can enable VPN functionality directly in the browser. Simplifying matters, we’ve tested and curated a list of the top 10 VPNs for Chromebooks, encompassing both free and paid options. These VPNs grant access to servers in various locations, enabling seamless unlocking of geo-restricted content and discreetly concealing your IP address. Let’s delve into the best Chromebook VPN choices for 2023.

Top Chromebook VPNs for 2023

Here, we’ve compiled the 10 finest VPNs for Chromebooks, encompassing both free and paid options. Our selection prioritizes privacy, security, performance, and global server accessibility.

1. ProtonVPN

For optimal free VPN service on your Chromebook, consider ProtonVPN, a top-tier open-source solution. Unlike Chrome extensions, ProtonVPN provides an Android app, ensuring VPN functionality beyond Chrome, extending even to the Linux container. Having utilized ProtonVPN on my Chromebook for years, I can attest to its reliability.

The VPN now supports the WireGuard protocol, offering superior security and performance compared to OpenVPN or IKEv2. With servers in over 60 countries, the free version limits you to three regions: United States, Netherlands, and Japan, which should suffice for most users. In addition to standard VPN security features like strict no-log policy, DNS leak prevention, and kill switch, ProtonVPN stands out as the top free Chromebook VPN in 2023.

Pricing: Free, Paid plan starts at $5.99 per month with the 1-year plan
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2. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN, a premium VPN for Chromebooks, provides servers from over 94 regions worldwide. With its superb Android app, it seamlessly operates on Chromebooks. Notably, it employs its own Lightway protocol for private network routing, surpassing WireGuard in both speed and privacy, as claimed by the company. Moreover, ExpressVPN is compatible with OpenVPN.

Aside from that, enjoy features like VPN encryption, IP address changer, kill switch, split tunneling, and more. Opting for ExpressVPN allows versatile use across various devices such as TV, phone, tablet, and beyond. Simply put, for a premium Chromebook VPN in 2023, ExpressVPN delivers without compromise.

Pricing: Free 7-day trial, Paid plan starts at $8.32/month with the 1-year plan
Download Android App / Download Chrome Extension

3. TunnelBear

TunnelBear stands out as a seamless VPN, also compatible with Chromebooks. Access it via the Chrome extension or Android app for system-wide network tunneling. Specifically for school-issued Chromebooks, opt for the TunnelBear Chrome extension, given the absence of Play Store support.

Aside from that, it offers 500MB free browsing monthly, which is relatively low. However, if you enjoy the service, you can opt for the paid plan. In terms of security, it employs AES-256-bit encryption and supports all three popular encryption protocols: WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2. TunnelBear has servers in about 22 countries, which is modest, but the performance is commendable. Overall, if you seek a user-friendly VPN for your Chromebook, TunnelBear is an excellent choice.

Pricing: Free 500MB data browsing monthly, Paid plan starts at $4.99 per month with the 1-year plan
Download Android App / Download Chrome Extension

4. NordVPN

NordVPN, ranked among the top Chromebook VPNs, stands out for its security, ease of use, and reliability. Despite a breach in 2018, the company has undergone thorough auditing by independent researchers to address vulnerabilities. Currently, NordVPN employs its proprietary NordLynx protocol, based on WireGuard, known for exceptional performance and privacy.

Aside from network tunneling, NordVPN offers Threat Protection Lite, blocking access to malicious websites and ensuring online protection. With 5400+ servers across 50 countries, NordVPN covers most popular regions effectively. Additionally, it provides IP leak protection by disabling the WebRTC protocol while the VPN is active. In summary, for a capable VPN service for your Chromebook, NordVPN meets all essential criteria.

Pricing: Paid plan starts at $7.49 per month with the 1-year plan
Download Android App / Download Chrome Extension

5. Surfshark

Compared to premium VPNs such as ExpressVPN and NordVPN, Surfshark provides an affordable VPN service for Chromebook users. Priced at $3.99 per month with a 12-month subscription, it includes all security and privacy features. Additionally, a 7-day free trial is available for testing the service. Covering over 65 countries and boasting approximately 3200 global servers, Surfshark’s VPN performance matches that of other paid services.

Regarding security protocols, Surfshark has already implemented WireGuard alongside OpenVPN and IKEv2. However, manual configuration is necessary for using WireGuard on your Chromebook. Additionally, Surfshark offers features such as emergency failsafe, end-to-end data encryption, and DNS leak protection. Notably, unlimited device support sets Surfshark apart from other VPN services. In summary, Surfshark is a robust VPN service worth trying on your Chromebook.

Pricing: 7-day free trial, Paid plan starts at $3.99 per month with the 1-year plan
Download Android App / Download Chrome Extension

6. Betternet

Aside from ProtonVPN, Betternet presents itself as another viable free VPN option for Chromebook users. While the free version restricts access to US-based servers exclusively, it does not impose any data caps, which is a notable advantage. Opting for the premium plan grants access to over 100 locations worldwide.

Concerning security, Betternet employs its proprietary protocol, Catapult Hydra, in place of OpenVPN. It utilizes AES-128-bit encryption to ensure secure connections. However, offering alternatives such as WireGuard, OpenVPN, or IKEv2 would enhance its versatility.

Despite this, Betternet includes essential features like a kill switch, ad blocker, Wi-Fi protection, private DNS leak protection, and more. While suitable for basic needs, it falls short in terms of robust security measures.

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Subscribed users can access servers in over 63 countries. Regarding security protocols, it lacks support for WireGuard, but offers options such as OpenVPN, IKEv2, and Stealth. Additionally, Windscribe includes an ad blocker and geo-restriction bypass. Windscribe stands out as a strong free VPN service for Chromebooks in 2023, particularly if ProtonVPN or Betternet don’t meet your needs.

Pricing: 10GB free monthly browsing; Paid plan starts at $5.75 per month with the 1-year option
Download Android App / Download Chrome Extension

8. Mullvad

Mullvad, a VPN service, is ideal for Chromebook users seeking top-tier privacy protection. It operates as an open-source VPN based in Sweden, pioneering the use of the WireGuard protocol. Mullvad, an early supporter of WireGuard, has contributed to its development. Besides WireGuard, it supports the OpenVPN protocol. Notably, Mozilla VPN and Malwarebytes rely on Mullvad’s servers for their VPN services.

Note that it’s a paid-only VPN service with no free trial or tier. Mullvad does not log any activity data and is striving to avoid storing payment details. The VPN includes a built-in kill switch. For comprehensive privacy protection on your Chromebook, Mullvad leads the pack.

Pricing: Paid plan starts at $5 per month
Download Android App

9. Private Internet Access (PIA)

Private Internet Access (PIA) stands as one of the oldest VPNs, maintaining reliability akin to other premium services. With servers spanning across 84 countries, it ensures high-speed data delivery via numerous servers. As expected, PIA operates on a subscription basis, yet offers a 7-day free trial. In terms of security, it backs both WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols.

Hiding your IP address is possible with PIA, which also doesn’t log activity data. Additionally, PIA supports split tunneling and has a kill switch to block your internet connection if it fails. The service includes a free Email Breach Monitor to check if your email is in any security breach. In summary, PIA consistently provides reliable VPN service and is a viable option for Chromebook users.

Pricing: 7-day free trial, Paid plans start at $11.95 per month
Download Android App / Download Chrome Extension

10. CyberGhost

CyberGhost is our last pick among Chromebook VPNs. Similar to Surfshark, it’s a budget-friendly VPN starting at $3.99 per month with the annual plan. Boasting 7000+ servers across 90 countries, it ensures high data speed. Utilizing the WireGuard protocol, CyberGhost establishes private tunnels for accessing geo-restricted content.

Along with supporting OpenVPN, CyberGhost also offers compatibility with IPSec, IKEv2, and PPTP security protocols. CyberGhost claims not to log any activity data, ensuring traffic protection through AES-256-bit encryption. Additionally, the VPN service blocks malicious content and hides your IP address.

Pricing: Free trial for 3 days, Paid plan starts at $3.99 per month with the 1-year plan
Download Android App / Download Chrome Extension

Choosing the Best Free VPN For Your Chromebook

These are the 10 best Chromebook VPN services for 2023. For top-notch privacy protection, consider a premium VPN. However, if you prefer unlimited bandwidth for free with strong security and privacy features, ProtonVPN is worth considering. For more Chromebook apps, including Chrome apps, extensions, Android apps, and Linux desktop programs, refer to our curated list. Install the Tor browser on your Chromebook for enhanced privacy protection using our linked guide. If you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments below.