5 Best VPNs for Chrome in 2024 (Free and Paid Options)

Google Chrome is a widely-used, leading web browser with integrated security features. The options, like Incognito Mode, protect the internet users’ privacy rights by not recording the browser history and other valuable information.

However, the browser leaves your IP address and location visible to ISPs, government authorities, websites you visit, third parties like advertising agencies, and hackers and data collectors. Therefore, you need a reliable Google Chrome VPN extension for secure, private, and anonymous web browsing.

In this article, we list the top VPN services to use with Google Chrome.

Quick summary of the best Chrome VPNs

1. NordVPN – An extensive server network with unlimited bandwidth and data, top-tier encryption, obfuscated server, kill switch, and split tunneling.
2. ExpressVPN – High-end security and privacy, blazing-fast speeds, Network Lock feature, and 30-day money-back guarantee.
3. Sufshark – Secure servers, unrestricted device connections, Camouflage Mode, automatic kill switch, CleanWeb ad blocker.
4. Hotspot Shield – Military-grade encryption, zero-logs policy, P2P support, Catapult Hydra protocol, 24/7 live chat.
5. ZenMate – No-logs policy, unlimited number of devices, AES 128/256-bit encryption, identity shield, 30-day money-back guarantee.

Why do you need a VPN extension for Google Chrome?

You’ll be surprised by the prices you see when searching for VPNs. So, you might wonder what the solution for browsing the internet securely and anonymously is.

The simplest way is by using the best VPN extension or plugin for your web browser, such as Google Chrome.

Recently, Google Chrome has surpassed Microsoft Edge, Safari, and Firefox to become the most popular browser. In fact, some statistics show that it takes approximately 65.12% of the market share worldwide.

Due to its immense popularity, many developers are putting effort into this browser. As a result, you’ll find many apps and features on Google that you won’t find on other browsers. For example, premium VPN services such as ExpressVPN and NordVPN offer extensions specifically designed for Chrome. This allows you to surf the internet safely and anonymously.

Read also: The best VPNs for Chromebook

What is the difference between a browser extension and Chrome incognito?

Chrome has a feature known as Incognito mode, where you browse without your history being recorded. So, unlike the standard way of browsing, Chrome will completely delete the accumulated cookies and files once you end the session.

However, it is ineffective in terms of security and privacy.

Why? When browsing the internet in incognito mode, your data might be recorded by your router, operating system, and even the sites you visit. This is particularly the case during streaming online.

In addition, your IP address will be visible to all and sundry, which means you can be traced easily.

Browser extensions vs. Real VPNs

Browser extensions such as Hola, Turbo VPN, and DotVPN are encrypted proxies, often HTTPS or SSL. You can add extensions to your browser to block ads, unlock geo-restrictions, and protect your privacy. However, unlike actual VPNs, which encrypt your internet connection from and to your device, browser extensions only encrypt your in-browser traffic.

Additionally, browser extensions are prone to various vulnerabilities. Basically, to improve security, VPN clients run IPsec-encrypted protocols such as SSTP, L2TP, or IKE on your device. Unfortunately, browser extensions are incapable of installing these tools. Therefore, they face a higher risk of security issues. Moreover, a reliable VPN client can extend your connection to help you access remote machines. This functionality is lacking in browser extensions.

Limitations of Chrome VPN extensions

VPN extensions work almost the same as VPN apps. In fact, some are advanced with beneficial features. They are designed to provide better control and convenience over your internet browsing experience. However, they also have some underlying weaknesses that compel you to be cautious when using browser extensions.

Following are some of the prominent reasons for using a VPN extension for Chrome, a secondary choice.

Limited encryption

One of the main reasons for using a VPN is to secure and anonymize internet connections. However, most browser extensions only use HTTP/HTTPS and SOCKS protocols with zero encryption. Sadly, some free VPN extensions don’t even have any form of encryption.

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Secure only browser traffic

Notably, most VPN extensions act as proxies. So, they only protect the traffic passing through the browser. Hence, the internet traffic of other apps on your device remains unsecured.

This also applies to other browsers you might be using. For example, if you have installed a Chrome browser VPN extension and browse with Firefox, you risk exposing your traffic.

Unlike browser extensions, fully-fledged VPN software will protect the entire system. As a result, all internet traffic emanating from your device will route through secure servers. This includes data from all browsers, apps, and even the operating system.

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Unreliable support

Unfortunately, this is a common issue with browser extensions. In most cases, you will have to do with community-based support or frequently asked questions (FAQs). However, browser extensions offered by premium providers such as ExpressVPN and Surfshark come with dependable customer support.

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Benefits of using VPN extensions on Chrome

After going through the limitations of a browser extension, you might wonder how exactly they are used anyway. However, given the abundance of browser add-ons, especially VPN add-ons, they should definitely benefit the users, shouldn’t they?

So, here’s how they can be helpful in specific scenarios.

Lightweight

Due to the limited capabilities, browser extensions tend to be lighter on the system functionality. For instance, you might have no other option or be required to preserve the system resources if you use a Chromebook. Using a VPN extension instead of an app might help in such situations.

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Ad blocking

Some browser extensions contain essential features such as ad blockers, tracker evasion, and cookie management. Unfortunately, although this helps eliminate junk from the web, it also makes some pages look strange.

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Specialized risk control

There is a common conception that hackers mainly target internet browsers. It means that almost all browsers are predisposed to security risks, with some differences in their vulnerability extent. A VPN browser extension is the simplest way to safeguard your data and mask your identity.

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Prevention of WebRTC leaks

Many browsers, including Chrome, have security issues that cause WebRTC to leak, revealing your identity. Of course, you can overcome this issue with VPN software, but some VPN extensions also prevent these leaks.

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Top 3 premium Chrome VPN extensions

Now that you know using a VPN extension can secure your Chrome browsing sessions, you might wonder which extensions you should use.

To answer this question, here are the three best choices that you can make with trust.

1. NordVPN

NordVPN is perhaps the best VPN for Chrome. It provides a secure Chrome extension that applies to both mobile and desktop clients.

It allows you to use any of its more than 6,800+ servers in 113 countries. Also, its Quick Connect feature automatically connects to the fastest server available based on your latency and location.

NordVPN uses a Block WebRTC feature to avert WebRTC leaks from your browser. Moreover, it applies Transport Layer Security (TLS v1.2) to protect your connection, especially when visiting web pages without HTTPS protection. Besides, its CyberSec feature, also accessible from the Chrome browser extension, prevents annoying ads, malware, trackers, and other threats.

NordVPN unblocks Netflix and other popular streaming services. Its SmartPlay feature is designed to circumvent even the toughest restrictions.

Also, this is a perfect VPN for torrenting. Thanks to its P2P-optimized servers offering unlimited bandwidth and data, you can download and share unlimited P2P files.

Based in Panama, the provider follows a strict zero-logs policy to keep all your online activities private.

NordVPN employs AES 256-bit encryption to safeguard your online activities. It fortifies the encryption with a 2048-bit DH key, SHA2-384 authentication, and perfect forward secrecy to keep you completely safe. The VPN also uses secure protocols like IKEv2/IPSec and OpenVPN UDP/TCP.

Besides, it offers customizable kill-switch and split tunneling features for personalized yet safe web browsing.

NordVPN offers apps for all major devices, including Android, Windows, iOS, macOS, Linux, and routers. Also, the provider allows you to connect up to 10 simultaneous connections under a single subscription.

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2. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is another top Chrome VPN available. It provides a native and safe Chrome extension that encrypts the traffic passing through your browser.

The provider runs more than 3000 servers in 107 countries around the world. With these high numbers, you can choose a server from your preferred country/city to change your online location. Alternatively, you can use the Smart Location feature to connect to the fastest server automatically.

ExpressVPN seamlessly unblocks major streaming sites, even those using strong geo-blocks. During our tests, it unblocked Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu, to name a few. In addition, almost all the servers are super-fast so that you can stream content in HD.

Furthermore, ExpressVPN provides unlimited bandwidth and data on its servers. Because it supports P2P sharing, you can download and share as many torrent files as you want unrestricted.

This VPN also offers tremendous security features, such as AES 256-bit encryption, HMAC authentication, AES 256-bit cipher, 4096-BIT RSA key, and Perfect Forward Secrecy (PFS), to protect your data.

Regarding anonymity, ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands, a privacy-friendly jurisdiction. It also follows a zero-logs policy powered by RAM-based TrustedServer technology and offers customizable security features such as a kill switch (Network Lock) and split tunneling.

Besides the Chrome browser extension, ExpressVPN offers dedicated apps for almost all devices, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux. While it supports eight simultaneous connections, you can install it on your router to protect your entire household.

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3. Surfshark

Surfshark is the most affordable premium VPN for Chrome. It provides a Chrome browser extension that is a simplified version of the software. Nonetheless, the plugin has a sleek design and runs smoothly.

The provider offers fast and consistent speed on most servers. Besides, this VPN does a commendable job of bypassing geographic restrictions, even with the browser extension. During our tests, its different servers successfully unblocked various streaming services like Peacock TV, Netflix, Hulu, etc.

Surfshark operates over 3,200 servers in 100+ countries, including regions with heavy censorship, like Vietnam, Serbia, Turkey, and Russia.

You can connect to the desired server from the list manually. Establishing the connection might take a few seconds, especially with a faraway server. However, once done, it will work smoothly. In addition, the app also gives you a “Quick Connect” feature that automatically connects you to the fastest available server.

The VPN uses top-tier security features to keep you safe. These include military-grade AES 256-bit encryption, MultiHop servers (double VPN), kill switch, and Camouflage mode. Also, it supports different VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard, and Shadowsocks.

The company that owns Surfshark is based in the Netherlands. While it’s a jurisdiction included in the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance, the provider boasts a strict no-logs policy, clearly stating that it does not collect any information that can identify the users. Also, it runs RAM-based servers in its network that cannot store or retain data. Therefore, your activities will not be visible to anyone.

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Top free VPNs for Chrome

1. Hotspot Shield

Hotspot Shield is the best option if you want to download a free Chrome VPN. It offers a Chrome browser extension to protect your internet traffic.

When conducting our tests, the VPN successfully unblocked popular streaming services like BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Disney+, etc. So, although your connection might get blocked on the first attempt, you can switch to another server and try again.

It uses the Catapult Hydra protocol that fixes latency issues that can affect connection speeds. As a result, you’ll get stable speeds to stream content in high definition and torrent smoothly.

Hotspot Shield uses AES 256-bit encryption to protect the traffic leaving your device. Furthermore, it employs perfect forward secrecy that changes the encryption key regularly.

Unfortunately, the provider is based in the United States and is a member of the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance. This is a major issue if you are concerned with your data privacy. However, it doesn’t store usage logs or any data that can identify you.

Hotspot Shield provides a free version if you are on a budget. Sadly, it comes with a lot of limitations. For example, you can only access US virtual server locations, and streaming everything is not always possible.

However, you can upgrade to the paid packages and access the rest of the features. Thankfully, all subscriptions have a 45-day money-back guarantee.

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2. ZenMate

ZenMate is one of the best Chrome VPNs available. It is super-easy to use and is highly customizable to tailor your online privacy.

While most regular VPNs cannot bypass geo-restrictions, ZenMate performs exceptionally well. Surprisingly, it unblocks some popular streaming services such as Amazon Prime Video, Netflix US, BBC iPlayer, and HBO Go.

Waiting for a web page to load can be very annoying, so selecting a VPN with reliable speeds is crucial. With ZenMate, you’ll get excellent speed if you connect to a server closer to your location. However, the speed will drop slightly when you use distant servers.

The VPN supports P2P sharing, and the servers are fast enough for high-speed downloading and sharing of torrent files. In fact, it has recently added optimized servers for torrenting.

ZenMate is headquartered in Germany and is a member of the 14-Eyes Alliance. The good news is that the provider observes a strict zero-logs policy, so your online activities will remain private.

Although the free version is minimal, it is better than the completely free services. For instance, it allows you to connect to only four server locations, and speed is limited to only 2mb/s. However, the provider won’t retain your data or traffic.

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How can I download a free Chrome VPN?

A free VPN Chrome extension can be tempting – data security and browsing anonymously for free sounds great. However, these services aren’t as reliable in practice as they seem.

Moreover, free VPN Chrome extensions are extremely slow and will reduce your crawling speed. In fact, others will harvest your bandwidth and share it with paying users. So, considering these factors, you are better off without using a VPN.

Alternatively, you can opt for freemium options like Hotspot Shield. However, they come with many limitations, and you might not experience a true VPN experience.

Paying for a premium VPN does not have to break the bank. For example, NordVPN and Surfshark offer reliable VPN Chrome extensions, which are affordable, especially with long-term plans.

Why free VPNs might be dangerous

Free services are quite tempting but expose you to greater risks. Here’s why free VPNs are dangerous:

• Data collection and sale: As the famous saying goes, you might be the product if you aren’t paying for a service. Well, this is how most free VPNs operate. For example, they have been caught collecting and selling users’ data to third parties for a profit.
• Malware and adware: Even more sinister, they display ads with malware that could harm your device.
• Trackers: Free VPNs are not on the same level of security as paid VPNs. This means free VPN providers can install trackers that expose your data, such as location, web history, and personal information.
• Outdated software: Free VPNs don’t make money for the provider; therefore, they’re usually reluctant to roll out updates. Outdated software is an excellent entryway for hackers. A regularly updated premium VPN will protect your internet activity from hackers, ISP, and the government.

How to set up a VPN on Chrome

After selecting your preferred VPN extension for Google Chrome, you need to set it up. Here’s how to do that.

(While the following steps mention ExpressVPN as an example, the process remains almost the same for all providers.)

1. Sign up with the VPN provider

After selecting your desired VPN provider, subscribe to its service whilst choosing the appropriate pricing plan. In the case of leading premium VPNs like ExpressVPN, you also enjoy a trial period with a money-back guarantee. So, you can pretty much subscribe to any plan.

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2. Sign in to your account

After completing the registration process, you’ll likely be redirected to your account dashboard. If not, you can sign in using your account credentials on the provider’s website and go to your dashboard.

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3. Locate and download the Google Chrome extension

You will likely see a dedicated section featuring the relevant VPN clients for different devices. From here, download and install the desktop app first on your device.

Once done, don’t log out. Rather, move ahead and download the Google Chrome VPN extension.

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4. Add VPN extension to Chrome browser

Following the previous step, a new web page might open up on your screen where you’ll find a “Quick Install” button. Clicking on it will display a popup window asking to add the extension. The pop-up will also mention the data the extension will read. If you’re okay with everything, click on the “Add extension” button.

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5. Run the VPN for Chrome

Successful installation of the extension will show the VPN provider’s icon on your browser taskbar. Click on it to start your VPN connection. You can also connect to your preferred server by reviewing the available locations.

In the case of ExpressVPN, you can also verify the successful VPN connection right from the browser by clicking on the “Check my IP” option. You can start your safe browsing session if you don’t see your IP address.

A few things may change once you connect to the browser extension. For example, the primary drop-down list would show ‘Connected.’ Also, the extension bar icon might change to show the country you have connected to.

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Are Chrome VPN extensions safe?

Overall, Chrome VPN extensions are safe. However, you should note that they are often sandboxed, meaning that provided you don’t grant permissions, the extension is separated from processes in the foreground. In addition, Google is curating its store; hence each new addition is checked out before availing it to the public. These steps ensure that they get rid of malicious add-ons.

In general, it’s crucial to exercise caution when choosing VPN extensions. Conduct thorough research before deciding which extension to use since some are too good to be true.

How to check if a Chrome extension is safe

A provider’s reputation says a lot about the quality of their services. Therefore, you can read about user reviews and ratings to check whether Chrome VPN extensions are safe. Be wary of extensions with negative reviews and low ratings.

You can also delve into the extension’s open-source code if you’re tech-savvy. This will give you insights into any security vulnerabilities and ascertain that the extension does what it claims to do. If the Chrome VPN you’re using is closed-source, worry not. Third-party audits and a simple Google search can reveal common red flags, such as previous data leak crises and suspicious policies.

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What should the best Chrome VPN extension do?

An ideal Chrome VPN extension should not only be easy to install but should also provide a variety of functionalities. Of course, more is usually better; hence, having a couple of additional features doesn’t hurt.

A key feature is the extension’s ability to provide a wide range of server network locations. This will allow you to tunnel your connection across various regions, thus enabling you to access geo-restricted content.

Security features are a plus if you want to use the extension regularly. Ideally, the Chrome VPN extension should be able to block the camera, conceal your location from website trackers, block cookies, protect you from leaks, and encrypt your connection.

Regardless of your choice, a good Chrome VPN extension should be as good as the VPN provider behind it.

FAQs