A Virtual Private Network (VPN) can shield your data from prying eyes and unlock content that might be blocked in your area. The best Mac VPNs offer strong security features while being easy to use and not slowing down your internet connection.
Mac users have several good VPN options to choose from in 2026. Some focus on speed, others on privacy, and some try to balance both while keeping costs low. Many popular VPN services offer apps made just for macOS that work well with Apple’s ecosystem.
1. NordVPN
NordVPN is one of the most popular VPN choices for Mac users. It stands out for its balance of security features, speed, and user-friendly interface that works well with macOS systems.
The app offers strong privacy protection with a strict no-logs policy. This means they don’t track or store what you do online when using their service, which is important for keeping your browsing private.
Speed is a key advantage of NordVPN on Mac. Many VPNs slow down your internet, but NordVPN is recognized for its fast servers, helping you maintain good connection speeds while browsing, streaming, or downloading.
Mac users will find the download and setup process straightforward. You can easily get the NordVPN app from their website or through the Mac App Store. The interface is clean and simple to navigate even for VPN beginners.
An interesting feature for Mac users is Threat Protection Pro, which blocks ads and protects against malware. This adds an extra layer of security beyond the basic VPN connection.
The service includes Meshnet, which lets you connect directly to other devices securely. This is useful for file sharing or accessing your home computer while traveling.
NordVPN supports several Mac versions, making it accessible whether you’re using the latest macOS or an older version. The app is regularly updated to maintain compatibility with new Mac updates.
For streaming fans, NordVPN works well with Netflix, Disney+, and other services. It helps bypass geographical restrictions so you can watch content from different regions on your Mac.
Connection reliability is another strong point. The app maintains stable connections and has an automatic kill switch that protects your data if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly.
With over 5,000 servers worldwide, NordVPN provides plenty of options for connecting from different locations. This large network helps maintain good speeds by preventing server overcrowding.
2. Surfshark
Surfshark is a popular VPN choice for Mac users looking for both affordability and strong features. It stands out by offering unlimited device connections, allowing you to protect not just your Mac but also your iPhone, iPad, and any other devices you own.
The Mac app is easy to use and maintains good security standards. Users appreciate its clean interface that doesn’t require technical knowledge to navigate.
Speed is another strong point for Surfshark. The service offers servers that can reach up to 10 Gbps speeds, making it suitable for streaming, gaming, and other high-bandwidth activities on your Mac.
Surfshark maintains a broad network of over 3,200 servers worldwide. This extensive coverage helps users find fast connections regardless of their location.
Security-minded Mac users will appreciate Surfshark’s double encryption feature. This adds an extra layer of protection when you’re handling sensitive information or connecting to public Wi-Fi networks.
Safari users will find Surfshark particularly useful. The VPN works well with Apple’s browser and even includes additional features like an ad blocker to improve your browsing experience.
For those uncertain about committing, Surfshark offers a free 7-day trial so you can test its performance on your Mac before purchasing.
The pricing is more budget-friendly than some competitors like NordVPN, making it attractive for Mac users who want quality protection without a premium price tag.
Installation on macOS is straightforward with a dedicated app available directly from the Mac App Store or the Surfshark website. The process takes just a few minutes to complete.
Mac users report good experiences with Surfshark’s customer support when they encounter issues or have questions about optimizing their VPN connection.
3. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is often ranked as a top choice for Mac users. The app works with all Mac models and supports the latest Apple silicon and macOS versions available in 2025.
Setting up ExpressVPN on your Mac is straightforward. The app is compatible with macOS 10.13 (High Sierra) and newer versions, making it accessible for most Mac users.
The interface is clean and user-friendly. You won’t need technical skills to get started – just download, install, and connect with a single click.
Security is a strong point for ExpressVPN on Mac. It offers robust encryption to keep your online activities private and protected from prying eyes.
Speed is another area where ExpressVPN performs well. Mac users can enjoy fast connections that don’t significantly slow down their normal browsing experience.
One Mac user on Reddit mentioned that IKEv2 protocol works best for them, though they noted some limitations with ad blocking and anti-malware support in that configuration.
ExpressVPN provides 24/7 customer support for Mac users. This can be helpful if you run into any issues or have questions about optimizing your VPN connection.
The service comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, giving you plenty of time to test it on your Mac before fully committing.
While ExpressVPN works well on Mac, it’s worth noting that PCMag currently lists ProtonVPN as their top recommendation for Mac VPNs in 2025.
The ExpressVPN Mac app is designed to be easy to use even for beginners. The simple layout helps you connect to servers quickly without getting lost in complicated settings.
For those who travel, ExpressVPN offers Mac users access to servers in many countries. This helps you bypass geo-restrictions when you’re away from home or need to access content from other regions.
Battery impact is minimal for most users. The app is designed to run efficiently on Mac, so you shouldn’t notice significant battery drain when using the VPN.
4. ProtonVPN
ProtonVPN stands out as one of the best VPN choices for Mac users. It has earned an Editors’ Choice award from PCMag for its all-around excellence in security and performance.
The app works smoothly on macOS, requiring version 10.12 or higher. This makes it compatible with most MacBooks, Mac minis, iMacs, and Mac Pros currently in use.
Mac users report good experiences with ProtonVPN’s performance. According to Reddit users, the service offers excellent ping and speed, which is crucial for streaming and gaming.
What sets ProtonVPN apart is its commitment to privacy. The company was founded by scientists from CERN, bringing serious technical expertise to their security solutions.
The Mac app is open-source and has been audited by trusted security experts. This transparency gives users more confidence in the service’s security claims.
ProtonVPN offers something quite rare – a free plan that’s actually safe to use. Unlike many free VPNs that sell user data, ProtonVPN’s free option maintains the same security standards as its paid versions.
The Mac app is designed to be user-friendly. Even if you’re new to VPNs, you’ll find the interface intuitive and easy to navigate.
For Mac users concerned about security, ProtonVPN includes important features like a kill switch. This automatically cuts your internet if the VPN connection drops, preventing data leaks.
The service also offers strong encryption standards and a strict no-logs policy. These features ensure your online activities remain private while using your Mac.
ProtonVPN can be downloaded directly from the App Store, making installation straightforward for Mac users. The setup process is quick and doesn’t require technical knowledge.
5. FastestVPN
FastestVPN offers a simple setup process for Mac users. You can download the Mac VPN app and be up and running in minutes. The clean interface makes it easy for new VPN users to navigate.
Security is a priority with this service. FastestVPN includes malware protection alongside solid encryption to keep your Mac safe. These features help protect your personal information while you browse online.
The service uses several VPN protocols, including WireGuard, which many consider the fastest and safest option available today. For streaming activities, many users prefer OpenVPN (UDP), but WireGuard gives you a good balance of security and speed.
Mac users will find FastestVPN in the Apple App Store, making installation quick and trusted. The app promises to create a safer internet experience and remove restrictions while browsing.
While other VPN providers may have more servers, FastestVPN stands out for its user-friendly approach. According to Macworld, it’s one of the best VPN picks for 2025, especially for those new to VPNs.
The service focuses on simplicity without sacrificing essential features. You get standard VPN benefits like IP masking and encrypted connections, packaged in a way that won’t overwhelm beginners.
Price is another selling point for FastestVPN. They typically offer competitive rates compared to bigger names in the VPN world, making it accessible for Mac users on a budget.
Connection speeds are generally good for everyday use. While it might not win every speed test against premium competitors, most users find it fast enough for streaming, browsing, and downloading.
Customer support options include live chat and email. This helps new users who might need guidance setting up or troubleshooting on their Mac devices.
6. CyberGhost VPN
CyberGhost is one of the top VPN services for Mac users in 2025. It offers strong security features built to protect your online activities.
The service runs smoothly on macOS with an easy-to-use interface. Mac users will find the setup process quick and straightforward.
CyberGhost gives you access to servers in over 90 countries. This wide coverage helps you bypass geo-restrictions on streaming platforms and other content.
Privacy is a major focus for this VPN. CyberGhost follows a strict no-logs policy, meaning they don’t track or store your online activities.
Speed tests show that CyberGhost performs well for streaming and downloading. The service maintains good connection speeds even when connected to distant servers.
Mac users get specialized features designed for their operating system. The app integrates smoothly with macOS and receives regular updates.
CyberGhost offers a generous 45-day money-back guarantee. This gives you plenty of time to test the service on your Mac before fully committing.
The pricing is competitive compared to other premium VPNs. They frequently run promotions that make long-term plans quite affordable.
While not considered the absolute best Mac VPN by some experts, CyberGhost remains a strong contender in the market.
The app includes useful features like automatic connection when joining untrusted Wi-Fi networks. This adds an extra layer of protection when using your Mac in public places.
CyberGhost also offers dedicated servers for streaming and torrenting. These specialized servers are optimized for better performance on specific tasks.
Customer support is available 24/7 through live chat. This is helpful for Mac users who might need assistance with setup or troubleshooting.
The VPN can be downloaded directly from their website. Installation on Mac is simple and takes just a few minutes.
7. Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a top choice for Mac users looking for a reliable VPN. The service has been around for over 10 years, making it one of the most established VPN providers in the market.
Mac users will find PIA’s app easy to set up and use. The native VPN app for Mac offers a trouble-free experience with a clean interface that won’t overwhelm new users.
One standout feature of PIA is its commitment to privacy. The company maintains a strict no-logs policy, meaning they don’t track or store your online activities. This is crucial for anyone serious about protecting their digital privacy.
Speed is another area where PIA performs well. Mac users can enjoy fast connections that don’t significantly slow down their browsing or streaming activities. This makes it suitable for daily use without frustration.
PIA offers worldwide streaming servers that help users access geo-restricted content. This is particularly useful for Mac users who travel frequently or want to access content from other regions.
Budget-conscious Mac users will appreciate PIA’s pricing. It’s generally more affordable than many competitors while still offering premium features. They also back their service with a 30-day money-back guarantee, letting you try it risk-free.
The app is available on the App Store, making installation simple. Once installed, users get instant data protection and the ability to keep their identity private when browsing.
Mac users will be pleased to know that PIA has been working hard to support split tunneling on macOS. According to Reddit discussions, this feature has been a priority for the company. Split tunneling lets you choose which apps use the VPN and which don’t.
For privacy-focused users, PIA is packed with features. Macworld’s review highlights it as a fantastic option for all budgets, especially those who value privacy.
PIA also uses 100% open-source software, which adds an extra layer of transparency. Tech-savvy Mac users can verify the code themselves to ensure there are no hidden functions or security issues.
8. IPVanish
IPVanish is a solid VPN choice for Mac users who value privacy and ease of use. The company recently released a new Mac VPN app with a redesigned interface and performance improvements.
The app works on all macOS devices including MacBooks and iMacs. It offers high-speed connections that help maintain your browsing speeds while keeping your online activities private.
For beginners, IPVanish is particularly helpful. The interface is clean and easy to navigate, making it a good option for new VPN users. You won’t need technical expertise to get it running on your Mac.
Installation is straightforward. You can download the IPVanish app directly from their website and follow the simple setup instructions. The process takes just a few minutes from start to finish.
The service provides standard VPN features like encryption and IP masking. These tools help protect your identity and data when using public Wi-Fi networks or browsing sensitive content.
IPVanish allows unlimited connections with a single subscription. This means you can protect all your Apple devices at once without paying extra. That’s a nice bonus compared to some competitors that limit connection numbers.
Speed is another strong point for this service. IPVanish maintains decent connection speeds that should work fine for streaming and downloading on your Mac.
While it’s a solid option, IPVanish isn’t currently ranked as the top Mac VPN by expert reviewers. According to PCMag, ProtonVPN currently holds the top spot for Mac users as of 2025.
The latest version of IPVanish is always available through their official website and can also be found on MacUpdate. Regular updates help keep the security features current with new threats.
For casual VPN users who want basic privacy protection on their Mac, IPVanish delivers a user-friendly experience with all the essential features.
9. Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield stands out as a popular VPN option for Mac users. It claims to be the fastest VPN, which has been verified by Ookla’s Speedtest.
The service offers an impressive network with over 1800 VPN servers spread across more than 80 countries. This wide coverage helps Mac users connect to almost any region they need.
Mac users can easily download Hotspot Shield from the Apple App Store. The app features a clean interface that makes it simple to use, even for beginners.
Security is a key feature of Hotspot Shield. It works to keep your internet activity secure, private, and protected while you browse on your Mac.
The VPN offers both free and paid plans. However, the free version has some limitations. According to reviews, the free plan’s monetization model may be a drawback for some users.
Speed tests show mixed results. While the company markets itself as the fastest VPN, some reviewers have noted slower speeds in practice. Your experience may vary based on your location and internet provider.
Hotspot Shield works well for streaming, gaming, and other high-bandwidth activities on Mac. The service is designed to handle these demanding tasks while maintaining your privacy.
Installation on macOS is straightforward. After downloading, just follow the simple setup instructions to get protected quickly.
The VPN offers apps for other devices too, not just Mac. You can use it on Windows, Android, and iOS devices with the same account.
For Mac users concerned with privacy, Hotspot Shield provides solid protection. However, those looking for completely free options might want to compare it with other services like NordVPN, which also offers strong security and fast speeds.
10. Atlas VPN
Atlas VPN was a freemium VPN service that offered both free and paid plans. Unfortunately, as of April 2024, Atlas VPN has been permanently discontinued and is no longer available to users.
Before its discontinuation, Atlas VPN was known for being a budget-friendly option. It provided a solid free plan alongside affordable premium tiers, making it popular among cost-conscious users looking for basic VPN protection.
The service featured a simple, easy-to-use interface that many Mac users appreciated. Even beginners could navigate the app without much trouble.
Atlas VPN was owned by the same company behind NordVPN, giving it a strong pedigree in the VPN industry. This connection helped build trust with users concerned about security credentials.
The Mac version of Atlas VPN offered good security features and was available for direct download. Users could install it quickly and start protecting their online activities within minutes.
For those who used the premium version, Atlas VPN provided decent speeds and security options. The free version, while more limited, still offered basic protection for casual users.
If you were using Atlas VPN on your Mac, you’ll need to find an alternative VPN service. Many former users are switching to other options like Surfshark, which offers similar features and pricing.
When choosing a replacement, look for services that match what you liked about Atlas VPN. Consider factors like price, speed, security features, and ease of use on Mac systems.
Several other VPN providers offer free tiers or low-cost plans that might fill the gap left by Atlas VPN’s closure. Research current options to find the best fit for your specific needs.
Understanding VPNs
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) create secure connections over the internet, protecting your data and privacy. They work by routing your traffic through encrypted tunnels and masking your real location.
How VPNs Work
A VPN creates an encrypted tunnel between your Mac and a remote server operated by the VPN service. When you connect to the internet, your data travels through this tunnel before reaching its destination.
Your internet traffic appears to come from the VPN server rather than your actual location. This process hides your real IP address and replaces it with the server’s address.
The encryption applied to your data makes it unreadable to anyone who might intercept it. This includes your internet service provider, hackers, and network administrators.
VPNs use different encryption protocols like OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2. These protocols vary in speed and security levels, with newer ones generally offering better performance.
Most Mac VPN apps make this complex process simple with one-click connections and automatic server selection.
Benefits of Using a VPN
Privacy Protection: VPNs shield your browsing activity from tracking by websites, advertisers, and your internet provider. Many services like NordVPN maintain strict no-logs policies, meaning they don’t keep records of your online activities.
Security on Public Wi-Fi: Coffee shops, airports, and hotels often have unsecured networks. VPNs encrypt your connection, protecting sensitive data from potential hackers nearby.
Access to Geo-Restricted Content: VPNs let you bypass regional restrictions by connecting to servers in different countries. This helps access streaming services or websites unavailable in your location.
Avoiding Bandwidth Throttling: Some internet providers slow certain types of traffic. A VPN can prevent this by hiding what you’re doing online from your provider.
It’s worth noting that while VPNs offer many benefits, they’re not perfect security solutions. They can sometimes reduce your internet speed due to the encryption process.
Important Features of a Mac VPN
When choosing a VPN for your Mac, certain key features can make a big difference in your online experience and protection level. These features affect both your security and how easy the VPN is to use.
Security Protocols
VPNs for Mac should offer strong encryption standards to protect your data. Look for VPNs that support OpenVPN or WireGuard protocols, which provide excellent security without sacrificing speed.
A good Mac VPN should also include:
- Kill switch feature that cuts your internet if the VPN connection drops
- No-logs policy to ensure your browsing activity isn’t stored
- DNS leak protection to prevent your queries from being exposed
- Multi-factor authentication for account security
Many top VPNs like NordVPN offer strong privacy features
Frequently Asked Questions
Mac users often have specific concerns when choosing a VPN service. Below are answers to common questions about VPNs for Apple computers.
What are the top-rated VPN services for Mac users?
Several VPNs stand out for Mac users in 2025. NordVPN ranks highly for its strong privacy features, fast servers, and no-logs policy.
ExpressVPN is considered the best VPN for Mac computers by CNET due to its dedication to privacy, quick connection speeds, and superior Mac app.
Surfshark offers a more budget-friendly option while maintaining good security standards. ProtonVPN and FastestVPN round out the top choices for Mac users.
What free VPN options are highly recommended for Mac?
Free VPN options for Mac come with limitations but can work for basic needs. ProtonVPN’s free plan stands out with no data caps, though it restricts you to fewer server locations.
Windscribe offers 10GB of free data monthly and works well on macOS. TunnelBear provides a simple interface with 500MB of free data, perfect for occasional secure browsing.
Free VPNs typically have slower speeds and fewer server options than paid versions. They may also collect more user data to offset costs.
How do I choose a VPN that’s optimized for Mac security and privacy?
Look for VPNs with strong encryption protocols like OpenVPN or WireGuard. These provide the best security for Mac users.
Check for a strict no-logs policy. The best Mac VPNs like NordVPN prioritize privacy and don’t track your online activities.
Consider VPNs with kill switch features that protect your data if the VPN connection drops. Additional security features like split tunneling and DNS leak protection add extra layers of security.
Mac-specific apps should be easy to use and optimized for macOS performance. Read reviews about how well the VPN integrates with Mac’s built-in security features.
What are the benefits of using a VPN on my Mac?
A VPN encrypts your internet connection, keeping your online activities private from your ISP and potential hackers. This is especially important when using public Wi-Fi.
VPNs allow access to geo-restricted content by masking your location. You can watch streaming services or access websites that might be blocked in your region.
Some security experts caution that unless you’re using a VPN to access a private network, it might not always increase security. Choose reputable providers for genuine privacy benefits.
VPNs can help prevent bandwidth throttling from your internet provider, potentially improving speeds for streaming or gaming.
Can you recommend a VPN that works well with both Mac and iPhone?
NordVPN offers excellent cross-platform compatibility between Mac and iPhone. Their apps are consistent across devices with synchronized settings.
ExpressVPN provides a seamless experience when switching between Apple devices. One subscription typically covers multiple devices with well-designed apps for both platforms.
Surfshark allows unlimited device connections, making it economical for users with multiple Apple products. Their apps maintain consistent interfaces across Mac and iOS.
Look for VPNs with iCloud sync options to maintain your settings when switching between devices.
Which VPNs for Mac have the strongest user reviews on Reddit?
Reddit users frequently recommend NordVPN and Surfshark for Mac. Both receive praise for reliability and value.
Mullvad earns respect from privacy-focused Reddit users for its anonymous payment options and no-logs policy. Many Mac users appreciate its simplicity.
ProtonVPN gets positive mentions for its free tier and strong security focus. Reddit users with technical backgrounds often recommend it for Mac.
ExpressVPN, though more expensive, is often cited for having the most reliable connections on Mac. Users report fewer drops and better speeds compared to competitors.
