Best VPN for Chrome: Top Extensions & Features Explained
Virtual private networks (VPNs) provide a robust level of online privacy and anonymity that is a must-have these days. This guide will cover the best VPN for Chrome as well as the best VPN extensions for this particular browser. There are a few differences in how an extension versus a full VPN functions.
A full VPN protects your entire device, whereas a VPN extension only protects your browsing activities within Chrome. Most good VPN providers also have extensions for users only wanting to encrypt their browser. We’ll review our top VPN services, focus on their extension capabilities, and give you all the pros and cons of each.
These VPN providers are the best for Chrome users:
- NordVPN – Best VPN for Chrome – Protect your whole system with one-click browsing security.
- Surfshark – Secure unlimited devices with fast, reliable VPN coverage.
- ExpressVPN– Privacy-first VPN for secure browsing and data protection..
- CyberGhost– Free Chrome VPN with no strings attached.
Benefits of Using a VPN for Chrome
VPNs work by routing your internet traffic through an encrypted tunnel, obfuscating your location, activities, and identifying information. A full VPN protects your entire system, no matter which browser, app, or program you’re using. VPNs also connect to remote servers located all over the globe. This means when you connect to one, it appears as though you’re actually located in that region, protecting your real location.
Also, VPN providers often have options for browser-only protections, such as with Chrome. This means you’re only protected while actually using Chrome, but you have a lot of the same capabilities as using the full VPN. Some benefits include:
- Enhanced security on public Wi-Fi so that your browsing activities can’t be tracked
- Data protection so that things like passwords, payment information, and other sensitive inputs are encrypted
- Accessing geo-blocked content or websites that may otherwise be blocked in your area. Many streaming entities only have copyright permissions for specific regions, blocking access for customers outside of these locations. Connecting to servers in these areas with blocked content opens up otherwise inaccessible media
Why use a Browser Extension Instead of a Full VPN?
While full VPNs give you the most privacy and security, browser extensions have their place. Here are some reasons to use them, rather than a more traditional VPN application:
- Hides your IP address during your Chrome browsing sessions
- Can be better for streaming media because it is lightweight, doesn’t hog resources, and therefore doesn’t bog down your entire system. It also means you get faster speeds
- Simpler setup and configuration
- Turning it on and off from your browser is often faster
- With browser-only VPN extensions, you can leave other apps and programs unimpeded, which is ideal for activities like PC gaming
Features to Look for in a VPN for Chrome
When determining what is the best VPN for Chrome, consider the following factors:
Privacy
Remember, VPNs don’t have the same depth of privacy as a traditional VPN could give you. That said, there are privacy basics a Chrome extension should provide:
- Hides your IP address from websites
- Encrypts your web traffic
- Look for a provider with a no-logs policy that doesn’t share your data with third parties
- Conceals your location
Speeds
While VPN browser extensions are naturally faster than regular VPNs, you still want a service that can give you the best speeds for your money. Most of the heavy hitters in the VPN market have made efforts on this front, so be sure you find a provider who can keep up with all the rest.
Compatibility
This is probably obvious, but be sure you select a provider who has extensions for Chrome, specifically. Of course, if you prefer a different browser you’ll want to see what options they have for those too. Because Chrome is so popular, most of the mainstream VPN providers will likely have what you need.
Server Network
A wide-ranging server network is crucial. First, the more servers the provider has, the more effectively they run. Too many users on too few servers affects speeds, lag, and your overall experience. Another element of a wide server network is bypassing geo-blocks for Netflix or other media content. The more global locations, the more options you have for spoofing your location. This just gives you that much more content that would otherwise be denied to you.
Customer Support
Nearly all VPN providers have customer support, but they are not all reliable or responsive. If this is something you envision yourself needing, choose accordingly. Also, check if they offer learning resources or have an educational blog. These can be very useful methods of getting the most out of your VPN.
Price
This is a no-brainer, but budget is important when deciding what is the best VPN for Chrome. Some VPN platforms nickel and dime you to death with add-ons and pay to use extras. Look for any hidden gotchas, such as low initial prices that skyrocket upon renewal. Also, many VPNs require you to subscribe before using their browser extensions.
Top VPN Extensions for Chrome
When choosing the best VPN extension for Chrome, you may want to give our top picks a look. For those in a hurry, here’s a quick comparison table. Keep reading and you’ll get a list of pros, cons, pricing, and features.
| VPN
Service |
NordVPN | Surfshark | ExpressVPN | CyberGhost |
| Best for | Overall use | Unlimited devices | Privacy practices | Free options |
| Pricing | $3.39-7.39 | $2.19-4.29 | $4.99-12.95 | Free to $12.99 |
NordVPN: Overall browsing (including streaming)
- Optimized servers for unblocking Netflix
- Mind-boggling number of servers
- No IP/DNS leaks found
- Extra-secure Double VPN for data encryption
- Money back guarantee policy
- Not much
- Can’t specify City or Province in App
NordVPN wins overall best VPN for Chrome. It has options for nearly every need. Their threat protection lets you block malicious sites and ads, they are compatible with any device that runs Chrome, and they guard against IP leaks and other data vulnerabilities.
The browser extension lets you connect with one click, making it easy to protect your online activities. While NordVPN does require you to subscribe to one of their plans to use their Chrome extension, that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Why only protect your browser when you can protect your whole system?
Read our full NordVPN review.
Surfshark: Securing unlimited devices
- Unblock 15 international Netflix libraries, including the US and Japan
- Every server is a speciality server
- Clean, dead-simple app interface makes constant security a no-brainer
- Absolutely no logging of connection data, IP addresses, bandwidth used, or traffic
- Get help any time of day via email, phone, or live chat
- Overall, not much to complain about
- Young VPN still has plenty of room to grow in terms of advanced functionality
Surfshark may not have the same massive number of servers as NordVPN, but they are one of the few that offer unlimited connections. Add to that they are nearly on-par with NordVPN for speeds and uptimes, you get quite a bit for even less money, making it a contender for best VPN extension for Chrome.
By now, you may notice that most VPN services require a subscription to use their browser extensions, but you also gain access to more advanced features, such as dynamic multihop, rotating IPs, and pop-up blockers. If you pay a little more for a more advanced plan, these extra features explode into services like antivirus, credit leak alerts, and other functions to keep you secure.
Read our SurfShark review.
ExpressVPN: Privacy-conscious users
- SPECIAL OFFER: 3 months free (49% off – link below)
- Fastest servers we have tested
- Torrenting/P2P allowed
- Keeps no logs of personal data
- Great support (24/7 chat)
- Priced slightly higher
ExpressVPN is a solid option for anyone wanting to protect their browser sessions. Not only do they offer competitive speeds and extras, but they have a focus on their security and privacy practices. They even have their “bug bounty” program that encourages security professionals worldwide to look for bugs and vulnerabilities in their software, app, and browser extensions.
They are aptly rewarded for anything they find, so it’s a great method to make sure any problems are addressed immediately.
Read our full ExpressVPN review.
CyberGhost: Free Chrome extension
- Unblocks US Netflix in web browser
- Peer-to-peer (P2P) torrenting allowed
- No leaks detected
- Strict no-logging policy
- 45-day money-back guarantee
- Can’t unblock some other streaming sites
Usually we wouldn’t recommend a free VPN service (more on that soon), but CyberGhost is a rare exception. The free Chrome extension is limited, but it is truly free with no strings attached. For anyone wanting a paid tier, it has similar features and offerings to the other VPNs on this list, including 24/7 customer support, no logs, servers in 100 countries, and more.
Read our full CyberGhost review.
How to Set Up a VPN on Chrome
It’s easy to set up a VPN Chrome extension. We’ll use NordVPN for an example:
- Purchase and activate a subscription plan from NordVPN
- Go to the Chrome Web Store and find the NordVPN extension
- Now that the extension has been added to your browser, use Chrome to log into NordVPN
- Click on the NordVPN extension icon in the upper right of the screen
- Choose Quick Connect and you’re set
![NordVPN quick connect graphic]](https://www.addictivetips.com/app/uploads/2025/01/quick-connect-1.jpg)
If you run into connection issues, try these troubleshooting tips:
- Turn off other extensions, apps, or VPN services that may be interfering
- See if waiting a little longer works, it can take a bit to connect
- Refresh the extension by rebooting, or reinstall the extension
- Restart your computer
- Delete cookies and clear your cache
- Don’t try to connect too many devices
Free vs Paid VPNs for Chrome
If you can afford to purchase a VPN subscription you get tons more tools versus free or cheap VPNs, including threat protections, faster speeds, and ad blocking.
Many free VPNs have privacy risks (some will sell your data), security concerns and feature limitations. Because free VPNs have less budget for security practices, you’re at a higher risk. However, we do have some more decent suggestions. We’ve already discussed our favorite premium VPNs (NordVPN, Surfshark, etc). Here are some serviceable, if limited, free ones to try for Chrome extensions:
- CyberGhost: One of the most reputable free options
- Proton VPN: A rare free VPN with a no-logs policy, no ads, and no data limits
- Windscribe: Offers 10GB free data and unlimited connections
FAQs About the Best VPN for Chrome
- Is there a difference between a standalone VPN and a VPN Chrome extension?
Here are some differences between a full VPN vs a VPN browser extension:
Browser extensions:
- Run faster and lighter on your system
- Easier to set up
- Only works during Chrome browsing sessions
- Not as many features or protections
Full VPNs:
- Protect the entire system
- Tend to run a little slower
- Robust extra features and tools
- Better security and configuration settings
- Are Chrome VPN extensions safe?
Because Chrome extensions can access your browsing information, it’s important to trust the provider. Most major services are fairly trustworthy, but the more obscure or free options may be suspect. Vet them thoroughly, including checking user reviews, and only get extensions from official sources.
- Does Chrome have a built-in VPN already?
Not currently. These are easily installed through the Chrome Web Store, however. Other browsers, such as the Opera browser, have in-built VPN abilities.
- What are the disadvantages of VPN browser extensions?
Some disadvantages of using a VPN extension instead of the full application:
- Weaker encryption and security protections
- Less coverage, so only browser traffic is protected
- Limited device compatibility
- Data caps and other reduced features for free VPN extensions
