Whether you’ve always lived in Hong Kong or have been visiting for a little while, you must have realized by now that a VPN (Virtual Private Network) comes in handy here. A VPN allows you to access restricted content, keep your online activity private, and stay safe while using public Wi-Fi, among other benefits.
The VPN market has countless options, and choosing a subscription that suits you (and is truly the best) is difficult. So, to help you, we’ve compiled this guide covering the best VPNs in Hong Kong and their features.
What is a VPN
A Virtual Private Network (or VPN, for short) is a technology that creates a secure and encrypted connection between you and the internet. A VPN works by hiding your IP address (your online identity) and transmitting your data through a secure tunnel to a server controlled by the VPN provider. This process prevents unauthorized parties from intercepting and accessing the transmitted information or seeing the websites you visit.
VPNs provide privacy and security for individuals, particularly when using public Wi-Fi networks, preventing hackers from accessing sensitive user data. Although, companies and businesses use VPNs to secure remote access for employees, protect confidential information, and ensure secure communication between geographically dispersed offices.
NordVPN
Launched in 2012, NordVPN quickly grew as a leader in the VPN market and has since maintained its competitive edges: unmatched security and stability, exceptionally high speeds, one of the largest server networks, and a well-designed user interface across different devices. But more than that, NordVPN offers a comprehensive suite of useful features for users, such as one-click connection, multi-hop, split tunneling, and Tor connections, ensuring you have full control over your privacy.
Server locations and count
NordVPN is known for its widest range of servers worldwide. It has over 6,300 servers across 111 countries, with 70+ servers in Hong Kong alone. Such a broad reach allows Nord to deliver high-speed and stable connections globally.
Speed and stability
NordVPN received a major speed upgrade in 2020, becoming the most promising VPN in terms of speed and stability. According to a speed test we conducted, there was a mere 1% speed decrease after connecting through Nord. This figure is unbelievable—given VPNs typically result in over 50% internet speed decline—but still true, making Nord the champion.
Encryption and security features
NordVPN uses industry-grade 256-bit AES encryption with features like a Kill Switch and Split Tunneling for maximum security. Threat Protection shields you from malware, trackers, and intrusive ads, while Dark Web Monitor alerts you if your data is found on the dark web. Meshnet enables secure connections between devices, allowing for safe file sharing and gaming. NordVPN further secures your data with OpenVPN, NordLynx, and IKEv2/IPsec protocols. So, there are definitely a ton of features to go around.
Ease of use and customer support
NordVPN has a simple and navigable interface. Its one-click connection features allow you to connect to the closest and fastest server by simply clicking the Quick Connect button upon launch. Then, it has an efficient 24/7 customer support system through email and live chat, so you can get your issues resolved quickly.
Monthly and yearly plans
NordVPN’s monthly plan with basic features starts at USD 12.99/month. However, if you subscribe to a 2-year plan, you can save up to 50% and pay only USD 3.69/month.
Surfshark
Although Surfshark was launched recently in 2018, it has quickly cemented itself as one of the top VPN providers in the saturated VPN marketplace. Owned by the same parent company as NordVPN, Surfshark’s broad, high-speed server network and features like camouflage mode (a feature that removes VPN traces on your connection) and unlimited simultaneous connections contributed to its success.
What’s more, Surfshark can help you access over 20 streaming platforms in Hong Kong alone. Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video—you can access any entertainment platform from any region. This ensures you never run out of shows and movies to watch, no matter where you are.
Server locations and count
Although Surfshark is relatively newer compared to others, it has expanded its server network to over 3,200 RAM-based servers in more than 100 countries, and this number continues to grow. VPNs with such a large server network give users peace of mind that they’ll get sufficient coverage no matter where they are based.
Speed and stability
Surfshark retained over 80% of its speed during our tests. The connections we tested were also impressively stable. If you’re concerned about the 20% speed drop, remember that cheap or free VPNs that sell your data to advertisers result in a more than 50% speed loss.
Encryption and security features
Surfshark VPN has robust encryption and security features, including 256-bit AES encryption, SHA512 authentication, and 2048-bit DHE-RSA key exchange, ensuring top-notch data protection. Plus, with the kill switch in place, your internet connection is immediately severed if the VPN drops, preventing sensitive data leaks.
Ease of use and customer support
Surfshark’s user-friendly interface and comprehensive customer service make it a top choice for beginners. Users can help resolve their issues and maximize their VPN experience with easy-to-follow setup guides and an FAQ section. It also offers 24/7 live chat support and emails.
Monthly and yearly plans
Surfshark’s starter monthly plan is USD 15.45/month. However, if you subscribe to a 2-year plan, you can enjoy the starter plan services for as low as USD 2.39/month—backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.
ExpressVPN
Express VPN came to market in 2009 and became renowned for its high speeds and large fleet of RAM-only servers worldwide. In addition to being one of the top choices for torrenting, ExpressVPN boasts strong privacy and security features. Apart from its recently updated user interface across different devices, ExpressVPN is an ideal pick for Hongkongers because it has the best access to streaming services. So, you can access your home library on Netflix when traveling to Hong Kong and enjoy geographically restricted content without any hassle.
Server locations and count
Express VPN has expanded its network to 105 countries and operates in 162 locations. Although it does not reveal the exact number of servers worldwide, it is said to be more than 3,000. This vast global reach allows users to enjoy stable connections wherever they go.
Speed and stability
According to our speed test, the download speed in Hong Kong dropped only 5% when ExpressVPN was activated. This stability makes it one of the top choices after NordVPN if you are looking for a service that does not affect speeds since we typically experience a drop of around 50% in internet speeds with an active VPN.
Encryption and security features
ExpressVPN, like other top VPN options, uses the advanced AES-256 encryption. Then it also supports multiple tunneling protocols, including Lightway, OpenVPN, and IKEv2 that ensure security and reliability. All of the above coupled with the strict no-logs policy, your online activities will be as private as possible.
Ease of use and customer support
ExpressVPN ensures easy use with an intuitive, streamlined app design even for VPN beginners. Their unmatched customer support includes 24/7 live chat, guides and articles, and FAQs, so getting assistance or finding solutions is super simple.
Monthly and yearly plans
If you choose a monthly billing package, ExpressVPN’s packages start from USD 12.95/month. However, if you opt for a 12-month subscription, it can drop to as low as USD 8.32/month.
CyberGhost VPN
As its name suggests, CyberGhost VPN makes you untraceable over the internet. Launched in 2011, the VPN gained popularity. So, no one can really force it to hand over its customers’ data to them. CyberGhost allows multi-device compatibility (you can connect seven devices through one subscription), has specialized servers that make it a good option for streaming and torrenting, and allows a free trial.
Server locations and count
CyberGhost users enjoy a massive server network. Data suggests it has more than 11,800 servers in more than 100 countries and around 126 locations worldwide, with one in Hong Kong. The broad international presence promises to provide reliable and stable VPN services to people globally.
Speed and stability
According to our speed test, CyberGhost retained over 70% of the internet download speed. This speed retention makes it a decent option for general web surfing and even streaming.
Encryption and security features
CyberGhost employs 256-bit AES encryption to safeguard your internet traffic, ensuring that it can’t be deciphered even if it’s intercepted. Additionally, its built-in Kill Switch provides an extra layer of security by automatically disconnecting your internet if the VPN connection drops.
Its no-logs policy ensures that CyberGhost doesn’t record any of your online activities, safeguarding your privacy and reducing the risk of your data being exposed to third parties. And the best part? CyberGhost also helps block malicious websites and trackers, enhancing your security and reducing the risk of cyber threats.
Ease of use and customer support
CyberGhost offers reliable 24/7 customer service via live chat and email. Its website features a section for comprehensive guides, FAQs, and troubleshooting tips. The app is simple and easy to navigate, even for beginners.
Monthly and yearly plans
CyberGhost’s pricing starts from USD 12.99/month with a 14-day money-back guarantee. However, if you opt for a 2-year plan, the cost drops to only USD 2.03/month with a 45-day money-back guarantee.
Hide.me VPN
Founded and officially launched in 2012, Hide.me VPN is famous for being a feature-packed tool at an affordable price. It allows up to 10 simultaneous connections and offers many customization options, making it ideal for users who want a tailored VPN experience without breaking the bank. The VPN has an intuitive dashboard with quick connect options, streaming-optimized servers, and favorite locations. With additional power-user features like ad-blocking and per-app split tunneling, plus a no-logs policy, Hide.me continues to offer solid value.
Server locations and count
Hide.me VPN has an extensive server network and offers decent coverage in around 55 countries, including Hong Kong. Its network of 2,300 fast servers can connect to 89 server locations worldwide if you use a paid version, which is huge. Another amazing thing about Hide.me VPN is its free version that allows you to connect to 7 server locations, making it a solid ten for people looking for a stable but free VPN.
Speed and stability
Hide.me’s speed and stability change as you connect to servers farther away from your base. In our tests, it retained an impressive 93% download speed with closer servers. However, with servers that were far away, the speeds dropped massively—as much as 75%. An explanation for this could be its busy servers for popular locations, as many other users are connected to them most of the time.
Encryption and security features
Hide.me VPN offers robust encryption and security features, including the industry-standard AES 256-bit encryption that safeguards your data. It also supports protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard, which provide strong security and high performance.
Ease of use and customer support
Hide.me’s customer support features a knowledge base, community forum, and ticket system, with live chat and in-app support. It has an easy Connect button for quick setup and advanced customization options for experienced users—which may have a learning curve if you’re a first-time user.
Monthly and yearly plans
Hide.me VPN’s pricing starts at USD 9.95/month and drops to USD 2.69/month if you choose the service provider’s 26-month plan. All of these offers include a 30-day money-back guarantee.
UltraVPN
Launched in 2006, Ultra VPN is one of the top VPNs known for its affordable plans and prices. Despite its appealing, low-cost subscription plans, it has decent speed retention in various countries, attracting many customers worldwide. UltraVPN is renowned for its multi-device compatibility, which allows up to 10 simultaneous connections, and some valuable features, like IP leak prevention and a password manager—the two features that help you keep your online activities secured and passwords organized for easy digital footprint management while using a VPN.
Server locations and count
UltraVPN has around 830 servers in 125 countries, including Hong Kong. Due to its global presence, it provides a stable and strong connection, allowing users from many countries to enjoy reliable VPN services.
Speed and stability
UltraVPN is a solid choice for speed and stability. Our tests concluded that it retains over 90% of the internet speed, making it an ideal option for high-quality streaming and torrenting. The stability was also fairly impressive, as there were few speed fluctuations.
Encryption and security features
UltraVPN offers AES-256 encryption and protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec for strong security. Although UltraVPN offers a Kill Switch to prevent data leaks in case of connection loss, this functionality might be limited to certain protocols.
Ease of use and customer support
UltraVPN provides customer support via live chat and email, with response times typically within 48 hours. There’s also a library of guides and a helpful FAQ for self-service. The UltraVPN app is easy to navigate on Windows and iOS, but the macOS version has significant bugs. On the other hand, the Android app has fewer features and customization options.
Monthly and yearly plans
If you choose the basic package, it will cost you only around USD 7.99/month. However, if you choose a 2-year plan, the cost will drop to as low as USD 2.99/month. UltraVPN also allows a 30-day money-back guarantee to its users.
VyprVPN
VyprVPN, launched in 2009, is ideal for enhancing online browsing and streaming, with the ability to unblock platforms like BBC iPlayer and YouTube, though it has limited success with Netflix and may struggle with Hulu. Besides, VyprVPN supports torrenting across all its servers at a satisfactory speed. While the VPN offers 24/7 customer support, it has mixed results with non-WireGuard protocols. Despite these limitations, VyprVPN’s security features, such as a Kill Switch and public Wi-Fi protection, make it a reliable choice for those seeking online privacy.
Server locations and count
VyprVPN, despite having a relatively modest number of servers—just over 700 worldwide—boasts 70+ global server locations. This extensive geographic spread allows you to access region-specific content.
Speed and stability
VyperVPN offers amazing download and upload speeds when the VPN is activated. When tested at different locations, we saw a drop of only 7-12% in download speeds, making it one of the top options for people looking for reliable speed when using VPNs.
Encryption and security features
VyprVPN uses AES-256 encryption and the reliable WireGuard protocol, offering top-tier data protection. The VPN also has a flexible Kill Switch feature to prevent accidental exposure of your IP address if the VPN service drops unexpectedly.
Ease of use and customer support
VyprVPN offers excellent customer service through 24/7 live chat support, emails, and a comprehensive knowledge base for troubleshooting. The VPN offers amazing features and ease of use on devices like macOS and Android, however, navigating its Linux app might seem a little complicated to beginners.
Monthly and yearly plans
If you choose a monthly billing plan, VyprVPN costs USD 10/month. However, if you choose the 2-year-long package, the cost drops to USD 3/month, meaning you will have to pay USD 72 every 24 months.
How to choose the right VPN
Choosing a VPN requires careful consideration of some important factors to ensure it best suits your needs. Below are the factors you should look for before making the final decision.
- Performance and Speed : Select a VPN that minimizes the impact on your internet speed, as slowdowns are a common drawback with many VPNs. Prioritize services known for their high-speed servers and efficient protocols to ensure a smooth online experience.
- User-friendly Application: A user-friendly interface is a must, especially for beginners. Apps that are easy to navigate will save you time and frustration when setting them up.
- Privacy and Security : Choose a VPN with encryption protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec, or WireGuard to protect your data, secure remote access, ensure cross-platform security, and reduce latency to increase speed and performance. Features like kill switches are added protections as they help prevent leaks if the connection fails.
- Expansive Server Network: Choose a VPN with an extensive server network if you want to enjoy a fast and stable connection and access geographically restricted content. The more servers and locations, the better the performance.
- ·Reliable Customer Support: You should choose a VPN with reliable customer support and a responsive team since using a VPN can affect your security, and you might need quick assistance in case of any issue.
- Logging Policy: The logging policy defines what data the VPN stores about the user. You need a clear and transparent logging policy to understand how protected you are. Ideally, you should go for VPNs that offer a no-logs policy.
FAQs about VPNs in Hong Kong
Are VPNs legal in Hong Kong?
Yes, using VPN is legal in Hong Kong. However, engaging in illegal activities using a VPN is against the law. You can use a VPN to access geographically blocked websites and restricted content and enjoy streaming from different streaming platforms worldwide.
Should I use a free VPN?
Although free VPNs provide decent security, we do not recommend using them. They are typically slower, have fewer server options, have limited features, and are unreliable, as the service providers may sell user data to cover their operating costs.
Is it easy to use a VPN?
Most of the top VPNs offer a user-friendly and navigable interface for various platforms, including computers, smartphones, and tablets. You typically download the app or extension, select a server location, and connect. This one-click connection feature makes it easy to use for beginners too.
Are there VPNs with servers in Hong Kong?
Yes, many VPN providers have servers in Hong Kong. This means that people living in Hong Kong can enjoy secure connections and content libraries from different regions and access many streaming services.
What is the best VPN in Hong Kong?
Even though many VPNs offer a smooth experience, user-friendly interface, and feature-rich applications, none come close to NordVPN. NordVPN has one of the greatest networks of servers that helps ensure strong and stable connections. Besides, its strong security features, such as a double VPN and strict no-logs policy, help provide unmatched privacy and security.
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