Google Chrome is the most-used free and open-source web browser, developed by Google and released in September 2008. Maybe you are reading this article even in the Chrome browser as well right now.
Do you know that the Chrome browser is used by around 44% of the total internet browser users?
According to Statcounter , Google Chrome has a global browser market share of 65.86% as of November 2022.
From the above stats, we can conclude that Google Chrome is the primary browser for millions of users worldwide. We also know that this browser is not that secure and not the most private one. Nevertheless, it is flexible and extensible through plugins and extensions. So, you can use a security solution for your Chrome browser through an extension.
One of the best security solutions that help you protect yourself online from hackers while using Google Chrome is a virtual private network. Using a VPN extension for Google Chrome encrypts the browser’s entire traffic, allowing you to protect your browsing activities from hackers, third parties, and even your internet service provider (ISP).
Check out: What is VPN?
By considering the dominance of Google Chrome across the globe, many reputed and trusted VPN providers have developed extensions. These VPN extensions are available as free as well as paid services.
Whenever you look for the best VPN extensions for Chrome, the uncertainty concerning which one is the best for Chrome settles in. All services look the same, but they offer different features and capabilities.
To help you choose the best one, here, we have curated a list of the best VPNs for Chrome that have been tested, tried, and chosen from hundreds of VPNs available on the market.
Let us get started!
How to Choose the Best VPN for Chrome Browser?
If you are a new user of a virtual private network, you might not know what features it should have. Don’t worry! We have listed a few major features you must consider.
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Security and Privacy
You use a virtual private network primarily to get high-grade security and privacy. Many virtual private networks keep track of your activities and take advantage by selling them to third parties.
Look for a trustworthy VPN that will not record your data. It should provide a strict no-logs feature.
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Compatibility
When you choose a VPN provider, ensure it provides an extension for the Chrome browser. If it provides an extension for Firefox, it does not mean it provides the same for Google Chrome. It is always better to check in advance rather than get disappointed later.
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Advanced Security Features
There are many security features a good virtual private network equips. These features are as follows:
Strong Encryption: A virtual private network should use a strong encryption standard to keep data safe and secure. Most VPNs use the AES-256-bit encryption standard, which security experts worldwide trust.
Kill Switch: This feature terminates all internet-based activities when your VPN connection gets lost. It avoid all your traffic from being connected to the default internet connection.
DNS and IP Leak Protection: It should protect your DNS and IP from getting leaked to hackers, third parties, and even your internet service provider (ISP).
Split Tunneling: It lets you route half of your web traffic through an encrypted tunnel while the rest accesses the internet directly. In terms of the browser, this feature lets you choose which URLs you want to route through an encrypted tunnel.
Threat Manager: Choose a virtual private network that protects you from malicious websites, ads, and third parties by blocking them as soon as detected.
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Speed
Generally, it is said that using a virtual private network slows down your internet connection. Nowadays, no one wants a slow connection when surfing the internet. As a result, ensure that the VPN service you choose offers high-speed connections to enjoy browsing without lags.
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Servers and Location
The stability of the VPN service is directly proportional to the number of servers it offers globally. Look for a service provider that has a large server fleet. This is because even if a few servers are down due to maintenance, there will be other servers for connection. As a result, the service won't be interrupted.
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Price
You will find out a plethora of free VPN providers. However, free services offer limited features, limit data and bandwidth usage, and allow a limited number of simultaneous connections. So generally, it is better to use a premium service to make the most out of your VPN. Pick the one that fits your budget while providing all the necessary security features.
10 Best VPNs for Chrome Browser To Use in 2023
1. ExpressVPN
If you are searching for a robust VPN extension for Chrome, ExpressVPN tops our list. It is easy to use and provides the best-in-class data encryption, as it uses the AES-256-bit encryption standard to protect your data. It has a large server fleet spread across 94+ countries worldwide, where each server is optimized to provide a high-speed connection.
Moreover, the ‘HTTPS Everywhere’ feature redirects you to the most secure version, i.e., HTTPS, of websites you visit. The WebRTC blocking feature does not allow any website you visit to discover your true IP address.
You can access any restricted content and streaming site by spoofing your IP address. To use the Chrome extension, you must install the ExpressVPN desktop application on your system.
Highlights
- A strict no-logs policy.
- Advanced leak protection.
- Bypasses ISP Throttling .
- Network lock kill switch.
- Threat Manager.
- Advanced split tunneling .
- Supports 5 simultaneous connections.
Protocols |
OpenVPN , IKEv2 , L2TP / IPSec , WireGuard , SSTP , and PPTP |
Unblock streaming sites |
Facebook, Netflix, Instagram, Twitter, HBO, Amazon Prime Video, BBC, Disney+, etc. |
Money-back guarantee |
30 days |
Live support |
Yes |
Pricing
- 1-month: $12.95/month
- 6-month: $9.99/month
- 1-year: $6.67/month
2. NordVPN
If you want to experience secure browsing without compromising speed, NordVPN is an ideal solution. It encrypts the Chrome browser’s traffic and prevents snoopers and our ISP from tracking your browsing activities.
Furthermore, it has many high-speed optimized servers, with over 5300+ across 60+ countries. It has a simplified user interface. Also, the setup of Chrome extension on Windows, Linux, Android, iOS, and macOS is easy. It is a good fit for beginners.
The unique feature of this service is its double VPN feature, i.e., it uses two servers to route your browser traffic. This means it encrypts your browser traffic twice. The Cybersec feature of this service protects you from accessing malware-rich sites and blocks ads.
Moreover, the split tunneling feature allows you to route sensitive URLs through an encrypted tunnel and leave out others to connect directly to the default connection.
Highlights
- Unlimited bandwidth.
- Disable WebRTC protocol , preventing others from discovering your true IP.
- Connect six different devices to a single account.
- No-logs policy and automatic kill-switch.
- Threat protection.
Protocols |
OpenVPN, NordLynx , and IKEv2/IPSec |
Unblock streaming sites |
Disney+, Hulu, American Netflix, BBC iPlayer, etc |
Money-back guarantee |
30 days |
Live support |
Yes |
Pricing
- Complete: $3.69/mo
- Plus: $4.69/mo
- Standard: $5.99/mo
3. Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield is one of Chrome's most popular and secure VPNs, as it comes with its unique protocol named Catapult Hydra Protocol. It ensures maximum speed without compromising security. According to Ookla's speed test , Hotspot Shield is the world’s fastest virtual private network.
Moreover, it has 3200+ servers in more than 80 countries and 115 virtual locations. The military-grade encryption of Hotspot Shield blocks more than 57 million malware and phishing websites. It leverages the Hydra encryption protocol, the fastest and the most secure one available in the market.
Highlights
- No-logs policy.
- Automatic kill switch.
- Protection against malware .
- Supports 5 simultaneous connections.
Protocols |
|
Unblock streaming sites |
Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, etc. |
Money-back guarantee |
45 days |
Live support |
Yes |
Pricing
- Free: Free forever
- Premium: $7.99/month
- Premium Family: $11.99/month
4. SurfShark VPN
If you need to connect unlimited devices and protect them under one umbrella, go for SurfShark. It is a young VPN that has earned its reputation in a few years. But if you look at its features, it has everything you need to protect your web traffic.
This service has a large network flock of 3200+ servers spread across 100 countries and 6 continents. You can connect to the fastest and nearest server, spoof your IP address, and access any restricted content.
It also offers features such as SurfShark Alert, SurfShark AntiVirus, and SurfShark Search. This service has an integrated cookie pop-up blocker that allows you to browse the internet without any pop-ups.
The more interesting feature of Surfshark is the website safety warnings that alert you about any breaches or other incidents of pages you visit.
Highlights
- Supports no-log policy and offers P2P support.
- DNS leak protection.
- Automatic kill switch.
- Unlimited bandwidth.
- Built-in ad blocker.
- Advanced split tunneling.
- Bypass all internet restrictions.
Protocols |
IKEv2, OpenVPN, WireGaurd, Shadowsocks . |
Unblock streaming sites |
Hulu, Kodi, Amazon Prime, American Netflix, Disney+, etc. |
Money-back guarantee |
30 days |
Live support |
Yes |
Pricing
- 1-month: $12.95/mo
- 12-month: $3.99/mo
- 24-month: $2.05/mo
5. CyberGhost VPN
When you want a reliable and best VPN extension for Chrome, you will always see the name CyberGhost. It has earned quite a reputation in the past few years. It helps you bypass all restrictions ISPs, schools, governments, and universities impose.
CyberGhost has a flock of servers, i.e., 9300+ servers, in more than 90+ countries, serving millions of customers. But the Chrome extension allows you to access only 8 servers in 4 countries. You can switch between servers, spoof your IP address, and enjoy internet freedom with high-grade security. In addition, you don't have to compromise the speed.
CyberGhost Google Chrome Extension does not require you to signup. Install the extension and get started with a single click.
Moreover, it comes with a standard bundle of basic features and offers some advanced features such as Smart Rules. You can tell your VPN how to behave in specific situations. In addition, it also offers a dedicated IP address.
Highlights
- No-logs policy.
- Unlimited bandwidth.
- Defeat ISP throttling.
- Block malicious content.
- WebRTC leak protection.
- Allows only Firefox and Google Chrome connections.
Protocols |
OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard |
Unblock streaming sites |
Hulu, Kodi, Amazon Prime, American Netflix, Disney+, etc. |
Money-back guarantee |
45 days |
Live support |
Yes |
Pricing
Free Google Chrome extension.
6. Private Internet Access (PIA)
Private Internet Access (PIA) for Chrome is a USA-based service provider that offers best-in-class security in-browser. This advanced Chrome extension blocks ads and trackers. In addition, it keeps your webcam and microphone safe from unauthorized access.
Like others on the list, PIA also has a large server fleet across 78+ countries, which is why its unmatched performance. These servers are optimized to provide the fastest speed possible. Moreover, PIA leverages the best-in-class protocols that provide high security to your data.
Highlights
- Supports 10 simultaneous connections.
- No-logs policy.
- Webcam and microphone blocking.
- Anti-tracking tools.
- WebRTC Protection.
- Built-in ads, trackers, and malware blockers.
- Unlimited data and bandwidth.
Protocols |
OpenVPN and WireGuard |
Unblock streaming sites |
Kodi, Disney+, and American Netflix |
Money-back guarantee |
30 days |
Live support |
Yes |
Pricing
- 1 month: $11.95 per month
- 3 years: $2.03 per month
7. Windscribe
If you are looking for the best VPN for Chrome extension, and that too free, Windscribe will be an excellent choice. You can sign up with your email address and get 10 GB of data on your free account. If you are too generous to tweet about Windscribe, you will get 15 GB.
This Chrome extension helps you conceal your IP address, circumvent censorship, and block ads and malware on websites while using Google Chrome. It is a proxy browser extension that works together with a VPN application on your device to protect your online privacy.
For streaming video platforms, Windscribe is great. It uses its own Stealth protocol and the 256-bit AES encryption standard, SHA512 auth, and a 4096-bit RSA key to protect your identity online.
Moreover, the premium plan allows users to access a large fleet of servers across 63 countries and 110 cities. The premium plan provides unlimited bandwidth and data. The Double Hop feature routes your browser’s traffic through two different servers.
Highlights
- No-logs policy.
- Supports unlimited simultaneous connections.
- WebRTC leak protection.
- Cookie monitoring.
- Automatic kill switch.
Protocols |
|
Unblock streaming sites |
Amazon Prime, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, US Netflix, Hulu, HBO Go, etc. |
Money-back guarantee |
30 days |
Live support |
Yes |
Pricing
- Free: Free forever
- Premium: $5.75/month (if billed annually)
8. TunnelBear
If you use a VPN for the first time and only want to secure your basic home connection, you can opt for TunnelBear. It comes with basic features and not advanced ones. However, it leverages the AES 256-bit encryption by default. It has a very simple and user-friendly interface that is fit for beginners. However, the major drawback is that it does not support media streaming.
Moreover, this service allows you to change your IP address and access any restricted website in your region. Hackers, government agencies, and even ISPs will not know your IP address, which prevents them from tracking your location.
Highlights
- Strict no-logs policy.
- Integrated with an ad blocker and anti-malware.
- DNS leak protection.
- Unlimited bandwidth and data.
- Bypasses local censorship.
Protocols |
IKEv2 and OpenVPN |
Unblock streaming sites |
|
Money-back guarantee |
No |
Live support |
No |
Pricing
- Free: Free forever
- Unlimited: $3.33/month
- Teams: $5.75/user/month
9. ZenMate
ZenMate is yet another free VPN for Chrome extension that does wonders for you with its best-in-class security. It leverages the military-grade encryption standard, i.e., AES-256-bit. Despite being free, it provides reliable and fast speed. There are numerous servers spread across 81+ countries.
The AlwaysOn feature of ZenMate’s Chrome extension lets you automatically connect your browser with it as soon as you log in. Another worth-mentioning feature is bookmarking servers. You can bookmark your favorite servers and find them easily when you need to connect with them.
More interestingly, ZenMate provides dedicated streaming servers that are highly optimized to provide high speed without any lag and buffering.
Highlights
- Supports unlimited simultaneous connections.
- Strict no-logs policy.
- WebRTC blocking.
- Automatic kill switch.
Protocols |
IPSec, IKEv2, and L2TP |
Unblock streaming sites |
CBC, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Fox Sport, NBC, Hotstar, Comedy Central, and many more |
Money-back guarantee |
30 days |
Live support |
Yes |
Pricing
- 1-month: $7.99/month
- 6-month: $3.19/month
- 1-year: $1.99/month
10. Browsec VPN
Browsec VPN is also a free Google Chrome VPN extension best for its security. It helps you shield all your browser activities, such as banking operations, passwords, and logins, with strong encryption. You can access any restricted content, whether a game, website, video streaming channel or music.
It supports connecting to high-speed servers spread across 42 countries. The best thing about this service is its security, which is better than any other Chrome extension. It offers complete leak protection.
Highlights
- Supports 5 simultaneous connections.
- WebRTC leak protection.
- Unlimited bandwidth.
Protocols |
OpenVPN |
Unlock streaming sites |
American Netflix |
Money-back guarantee |
7 days |
Live support |
No |
Pricing
Free Google Chrome extension
Wrapping it Up!
The answer to which VPN for Chrome extension is the best depends on what you expect from it. If you look forward to excellent security to keep your browser traffic unknown, consider premium services like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, or SurfShark.
For a basic version, you can choose between TunnelBear or ZenMate. For streaming media, ZenMate unblocks approximately 30 platforms for you. If you are looking for a budget service, go for WindScribe or Private Internet Access.
If you lack time and need to decide which VPN to use swiftly, you can go over the main features of the VPN Chrome extensions in this guide or read the detailed review. First, identify your needs and budget, then choose the best VPN chrome extension.
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