The Best VPNs for Mac 2026
How to Choose the Best VPN for Your Mac in 2024
As a cyber security expert with over a decade specializing in cloud data security, I know firsthand how crucial it is to use a virtual private network (VPN) to protect your online privacy and security. And if you‘re one of the many people who prefer using a Mac, it‘s important to choose a VPN service that provides a seamless, secure experience on macOS.
After extensively testing and analyzing the top VPN providers, I‘ve identified the three best VPNs for Mac users in 2024. Whether you prioritize speed, security, user experience, or price, these VPNs have you covered with their robust features and performance.
But before we dive into the top picks, let‘s cover what you should look for in a VPN for your Mac:
- Fast connection speeds for smooth browsing and streaming
- Strong security with AES-256 encryption and secure protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN
- Strict no-logs policy to ensure your online activity remains private
- User-friendly, feature-rich native macOS app
- Support for streaming with access to geo-blocked content
- Reasonable pricing and good value
Based on these core criteria, here are my top recommendations for the best Mac VPNs:
- NordVPN: Best VPN for Mac Overall
NordVPN is my top overall pick for Mac users seeking the optimal blend of speed, security, and ease of use. Its macOS app is beautifully designed to fit right in with Apple‘s aesthetic while packing in powerful features.
You get access to NordVPN‘s huge server network spanning 60+ countries for fast, reliable connections anywhere. Built-in WireGuard support via NordLynx delivers excellent speeds for browsing, streaming and torrenting.
On the security front, NordVPN safeguards your data with uncrackable AES-256 encryption, a strict no-logs policy (audited by PwC), and advanced features like Onion over VPN and MultiHop for added privacy. Useful extras include adblocking, malware scanning, and split tunneling.
NordVPN is also one of the best VPNs for streaming, with proven access to Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and many other services. You can connect up to 6 devices simultaneously. While the variety of subscription plans can be a bit confusing, pricing is highly competitive with deals as low as $3.29 per month.
- Surfshark: Best Budget Mac VPN
If you‘re looking to protect your Mac without breaking the bank, Surfshark is an excellent budget-friendly VPN. You‘ll be hard-pressed to find a more affordable option that still delivers top-notch security, privacy, and performance.
Despite the low price, Surfshark doesn‘t skimp on features. Its Mac app uses secure WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols with AES-256 encryption. You get access to 3200+ servers in 100 countries, which is really impressive for a budget VPN. Connection speeds and reliability are also great.
Surfshark has a verified no-logs policy, MultiHop, and useful extras like Whitelister split tunneling, adblocking, and malware protection. One subscription allows unlimited simultaneous device connections, making it a fantastic value.
However, Surfshark‘s headquarters in the Netherlands, a 9 Eyes surveillance country, may be a drawback for some. But its strong privacy measures help make up for this. Surfshark unlocks all the top streaming services and allows torrenting on all servers.
- ExpressVPN: Best VPN for High Speed on Macs
For those who crave the absolute fastest connection speeds on their Macs, go with ExpressVPN. Its in-house Lightway protocol is optimized for both speed and security, delivering lightning-quick downloads and uninterrupted streaming.
ExpressVPN operates a network of 3000+ speedy servers in 94 countries. It supports ultra-secure protocols including Lightway, OpenVPN and IKEv2 with AES-256 encryption. ExpressVPN‘s proprietary TrustedServer technology ensures all servers run on RAM only, never writing data to hard drives. The no-logs policy has been independently audited.
The macOS app is a breeze to use with a clean, intuitive interface. ExpressVPN is one of the most reliable VPNs for streaming, working with 65+ services like Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, Disney+. It also supports both full and split tunneling.
While ExpressVPN costs a bit more than rivals, its premium speeds, security and performance justify the price. You can connect up to 5 devices simultaneously. There‘s a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can test it risk-free.
Honorable Mention: Other Great VPNs for Mac
In addition to my top 3 picks, some other VPNs are also worth considering for your Mac:
- CyberGhost: Huge server network and 45-day money back guarantee
- Private Internet Access: Affordable with open-source apps and no-logs policy
- IPVanish: User-friendly Mac app and allows unlimited device connections
FAQs About Using a VPN on a Mac
Does Mac have a built-in VPN? No, macOS does not include a built-in VPN. You‘ll need to use a third-party VPN app.
Is there a free Mac VPN? While some free VPNs are available for Mac, I recommend avoiding them due to limitations and potential security risks. It‘s worth paying for a quality VPN to fully protect your Mac.
Do I need a VPN on my Mac? Using a VPN is important for securing your online privacy on a Mac, especially on public Wi-Fi networks. A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, hides your real IP address, and protects your sensitive data.
How do I set up a VPN on macOS? Manually setting up a VPN on a Mac requires configuring it in Network settings or via macOS Terminal commands. But the easiest way is to download a VPN provider‘s Mac app which handles the configuration for you.
The Bottom Line
Investing in a quality VPN is essential for safeguarding your privacy and security on a Mac in 2024. NordVPN is my top recommendation for its exceptional combination of speed, security, Mac compatibility, and features. Surfshark is the best low-cost option, while ExpressVPN earns the crown as the fastest Mac VPN.
Choosing the best VPN for your Mac comes down to your individual needs and preferences. Be sure to consider factors like speed, privacy protections, Mac client usability, streaming and torrenting support, and price. You can‘t go wrong with any of the top MacVPN picks highlighted here, so pick the one that fits you best and enjoy a safer, more open internet on your Mac.