ChromeOS devices have additional security features that make them more resilient to malware attacks, and it’s easy to completely wipe the device if you want to start from scratch. Those extra features make deploying full-featured VPNs difficult, so the ones you see on this list are the best ports available for the Android app on the platform. Further, what ChromeOS won’t do is stop your internet service provider (ISP), company, or school IT department from tracking your activity. That's where a VPN comes in. Our Editors' Choice, Proton VPN, has a generous free plan and solid apps for ChromeOS. That said, it isn’t the only option. Read on for more of our top picks and a rundown of the features you should look for when choosing one.
Overview
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![Proton VPN]()
Best OverallProton VPN
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![NordVPN]()
Best Additional FeaturesNordVPN
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![TunnelBear VPN]()
Best for New UsersTunnelBear VPN
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![ExpressVPN]()
Best Global Server CollectionExpressVPN
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![Surfshark VPN]()
Best for All-in-One SecuritySurfshark VPN
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![Mullvad VPN]()
Best Anonymous Account SystemMullvad VPN
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![Windscribe VPN]()
Best Company TransparencyWindscribe VPN
You Can Trust Our Reviews
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
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Credit: Proton
![Proton VPN]()
Best OverallProton VPN
Pros & Cons
Proton VPN's dedicated Android app is easy to install on ChromeOS. Its free version has all of the great features that make it great, and it's ideal for users on a tight budget. The service's premium feature set stands out as one of the best offerings on the market.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: Proton VPN is packed with features at a very affordable price and has one of the best free subscriptions we've seen. Particularly appealing features include a Kill Switch and NetShield, the latter of which is Proton's ad and tracker blocker. We were pleased to see that the Android app does a good job translating the Proton VPN experience to ChromeOS.
Privacy and security: The people behind Proton take privacy seriously with an unyielding commitment to transparency and accountability that you don’t often see in the VPN space. All apps are open-source, so you never have to question if there’s a hidden vulnerability that could compromise your data. Annual audits and frequent transparency reports show that Proton is maintaining its standards year after year.
Speed and performance: Proton’s premium servers place the service in the middle of the pack, with a 20.11% decrease in download speeds, a 43.21% decrease in upload speeds, and a 351.26% increase in latency.
Streaming: We had no issues streaming Netflix with Proton. Proton’s premium servers worked flawlessly, granting us access to every regional catalog we tested.
User experience and ease of use: The Android port to ChromeOS is streamlined and easy to use for beginners and experienced users alike. Features are easily accessible and clearly labeled. It’s easy to tell when you’re connected to a server, and you can access advanced options with just a couple of taps.
Who It's For
Users who want a free VPN: Those on a budget should consider trying Proton by downloading the free version first. After learning how to use it and determining whether it best suits your Android device's needs, you can upgrade to the paid version.
Users who want additional features: Proton is packed with advanced features like multi-hop, split tunneling, and Net Shield. Additionally, all of Proton’s extra security tools, such as its password manager and encrypted email service, offer generous free versions.
Specs & Configurations
500+ Servers Blocks Ads Can Manually Select Server In Free Version Free Connection Speeds Limited No Free Version Free Version Server Limit US, Netherlands, Japan Free Version Data Limit Unlimited Free Version Simultaneous Connection Limit 1 Geographically Diverse Servers No Ads In Free Version? Yes Public Third-Party Audit Server Locations 129 countries Simultaneous VPN Connections 10 Supported Protocols on Android WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on iOS WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on macOS WireGuard, IKEv2 Learn More Proton VPN Review -
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Credit: NordVPN
![NordVPN]()
Best Additional FeaturesNordVPN
Pros & Cons
NordVPN's feature collection on ChromeOS is hard to beat. It includes split tunneling, a kill switch, a dark web monitor, and Threat Protection, which blocks malicious websites.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: NordVPN’s advanced features are configurable on ChromeOS. You can take advantage of NordLynx, which is a fast, open-source, and reliable protocol. It also provides access to split tunneling and multi-hop connections. Nord’s Threat Protection Pro keeps you safe from malware and blocks nasty trackers that could try to keep tabs on your browsing habits.
Privacy and security: Nord maintains transparent privacy standards with third-party audits and a frequently updated transparency report. NordLynx uses open-source technology, so you can take a look at what makes the service tick. Nord doesn’t keep logs, and its no-logs policy has been independently verified in multiple security audits by VerSprite, Cure53, Deloitte, and PriceWaterhouseCoopers (PWC).
Speed and performance: Nord has consistently delivered excellent performance in our tests. It reduced our download speeds by just 5.20%, upload speeds by 5.78%, and increased our latency by 58.14%. Just keep in mind that your experience may vary depending on your proximity to a Nord server.
Streaming: Streaming with Nord was streamlined. We didn’t experience any buffering or stuttering with videos. Additionally, Nord managed to unblock every regional Netflix library we tested.
User experience and ease of use: Nord’s ChromeOS app is simple and easy to use, with streamlined menus and options similar to the standard Android mobile experience.
Who It's For
Netflix watchers: People looking to access location-locked streaming content will appreciate NordVPN's extensive server selection.
Experienced users who need premium security: Experienced VPN users will get the most out of a NordVPN subscription. Features like the company's unique Meshnet offering are interesting and expansive, but they may be confusing to anyone unfamiliar with VPN use.
Specs & Configurations
500+ Servers Blocks Ads Free Version Data Limit No Free Version Geographically Diverse Servers Server Locations 118 countries Simultaneous VPN Connections 6 Supported Protocols on Android NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN Supported Protocols on iOS NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec Supported Protocols on macOS NordLynx (based on WireGuard), OpenVPN, IKEv2 Learn More NordVPN Review -
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![TunnelBear VPN]()
Best for New UsersTunnelBear VPN
Pros & Cons
While outwardly friendly, TunnelBear VPN is a ferocious defender of privacy. The ChromeOS version includes app-level split tunneling, which is called SplitBear. Other features include VigilantBear, an auto-reconnect option, and GhostBear, which makes your VPN connection appear as regular internet traffic when VPN activity is blocked.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: TunnelBear has servers in 45 countries and doesn’t place a cap on simultaneous device connections. You get advanced obfuscation with GhostBear, a protocol that mimics HTTPS to bypass standard VPN blocks. TunnelBear also has a free version that lets you try out all the app's features if you’re not sure it's the right pick for you. You aren’t limited to a slim selection of servers or barred from using advanced features or protocols. However, you are limited to 2GB of data per month.
Privacy and security: TunnelBear’s privacy policy is thoughtfully designed and easy to read. Every point is illustrated with a real-world example of how TunnelBear handles that specific instance, inquiry, or data point. TunnelBear has undergone seven separate independent audits that have verified the company’s stalwart stance on privacy. Regularly updated transparency reports hammer home this point, revealing that the service has never handed over user information in response to an inquiry or lawful order.
Speed and performance: TunnelBear performed below average in our most recent bout of speed tests. It decreased our download speeds by 83% and our upload speeds by 72%. Latency also saw a significant 109% increase. Keep in mind that speed tests vary based on a variety of local factors, so we don’t recommend buying a VPN based on speed tests alone.
Streaming: Streaming with TunnelBear was reliable. The VPN unblocked Netflix in all tested regions without fail. TunnelBear has servers in 45 countries, providing broad global coverage. While it may not have the most comprehensive server network, it services the most popular countries that offer regional streaming catalogs.
User experience and ease of use: One of TunnelBear’s standout features is its intuitive, fun design. The fun, brightly colored interface is easy to use and features bears at every turn. It’s not too cluttered. It’s not too sparse. This interface is just right. A map makes it easy to tell where you’re connecting to, and you’ll get a cute animation of a bear tunneling to the region that you choose to connect to. Advanced features and additional configuration options are just a couple of clicks away.
Who It's For
Users who want a fun VPN: TunnelBear has consistently put a lot of effort into making its user interface both functional and lighthearted, which is a welcome change in the digital security space. People who appreciate fun design and strong privacy principles will want to try TunnelBear VPN.
Users who want a free VPN: Fun and free go hand in hand with TunnelBear. You can give the bear-themed Android app a whirl without having to pay, though I’d keep an eye on your honey stash. The full TunnelBear app is free as long as you stay under the 2GB per month cap, making it an excellent option for trying the service before you subscribe.
Specs & Configurations
500+ Servers Are All Features Available In Free Version? Blocks Ads Can Manually Select Server In Free Version Free Connection Speeds Limited No Free Version Free Version Server Limit All Servers Free Version Data Limit 2GB per month Free Version Simultaneous Connection Limit Unlimited Geographically Diverse Servers No Ads In Free Version? Yes Public Third-Party Audit Server Locations 45 Countries Simultaneous VPN Connections Unlimited Supported Protocols on Android OpenVPN Supported Protocols on iOS WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on macOS WireGuard, OpenVPN Learn More TunnelBear VPN Review -
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Credit: ExpressVPN
![ExpressVPN]()
Best Global Server CollectionExpressVPN
Pros & Cons
We appreciate ExpressVPN's easy-to-read user interface. The ChromeOS app includes split tunneling and an auto-connect option. Other privacy-related features include an IP address checker, DNS and WebRTC leak test tools, and a password generator.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol is known for its reliability and is backed by post-quantum encryption, making it suited for securing your connection on any platform. The ChromeOS version comes packed with all the same advanced features and tools as the Android version of the app.
Privacy and security: ExpressVPN is transparent about its data practices. The service does log aggregate data on user usage, but the company claims none of this information can be tied back to user accounts. Biannual transparency reports reinforce this claim, as do the 22 independent security audits Express has undergone.
Speed and performance: ExpressVPN decreased download speeds by 18.55%, upload speeds by 7.45%, and increased latency by 95.62%. These scores place it ahead of most services.
Streaming: Netflix access was seamless with ExpressVPN. We put it up against five regional catalogs in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and Japan. It performed well, giving us unrestricted access to every single one.
User experience and ease of use: ExpressVPN has a slick, easy-to-use interface. Its single-button connection screen makes it a breeze to connect, and the settings menu offers plenty of advanced features for those who want to fine-tune their connection.
Who It's For
Frequent travelers: VPN users looking for many server locations will appreciate the sheer size of ExpressVPN's server network. The company also offers strong security features across all its mobile offerings, including Android.
Users who want fast, reliable connections: Subscribers seeking physical VPN servers should try ExpressVPN. The company doesn't rely heavily on virtual servers, which sets it apart from some VPN services that tout big server distributions.
Specs & Configurations
500+ Servers Blocks Ads Free Version Data Limit No Free Version Geographically Diverse Servers Server Locations 105 Countries Simultaneous VPN Connections 10-14 Supported Protocols on Android Lightway Supported Protocols on iOS OpenVPN, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on macOS Lightway, OpenVPN, L2TP Learn More ExpressVPN Review -
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Credit: Surfshark
![Surfshark VPN]()
Best for All-in-One SecuritySurfshark VPN
Pros & Cons
Surfshark VPN has just about every feature you'll need on ChromeOS, including unlimited simultaneous connections. Existing customers will be happy to see that the service's excellent design from the Android client carries over to ChromeOS, making it simple for even the most novice VPN users to navigate the app.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: Surfshark's network has good global coverage with presence in 100 countries. Advanced connection options, such as multi-hop and post-quantum encryption, make it easy to tailor your security preferences. Surfshark aims to be a one-app security solution. You can configure an antivirus, ad blocker, and additional identity protection tools all in one place. No features are absent compared with the desktop version.
Privacy and security: Privacy policies can be confusing and dense. Surfshark takes a beginner-friendly approach and has an in-depth but digestible policy that explains how the company handles data. The service has verified these claims with frequent third-party audits and quarterly transparency reports.
Speed and performance: Surfshark's performance was impressive. We only saw a 3.25% decrease in download speeds, a 6.07% decrease in upload speeds, and an 83.92% increase in latency.
Streaming: Netflix access was no problem for Surfshark. It accessed every regional catalog we tested without running into blocks. We did not experience stuttering or slow load times even when connected to distant locations.
User experience and ease of use: ChromeOS blends the Android app with a desktop interface, making for a streamlined experience on ChromeOS. We found it easy to use and neatly organized.
Who It's For
Media Streamers: Surfshark is a solid choice for those looking to watch their favorite shows from anywhere without compromising on security. The VPN was one of the fastest we have tested, and it unblocked regional Netflix catalogs with ease.
Users who want a one-app solution: The most significant selling point for Surfshark is its extensive privacy features. It's a good choice for those who may not want a handful of subscriptions to different services. With Surfshark, you can configure an array of tools all from a single control hub under one account.
Specs & Configurations
500+ Servers Blocks Ads Free Version Data Limit No Free Version Geographically Diverse Servers Server Locations 100 Countries Simultaneous VPN Connections Unlimited Supported Protocols on Android WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on iOS WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on macOS WireGuard, IKEv2 Learn More Surfshark VPN Review -
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![Mullvad VPN]()
Best Anonymous Account SystemMullvad VPN
Pros & Cons
Mullvad VPN for Chromebook includes split tunneling, plus the interface is uncluttered and easy to navigate. It shares the same feature set as its Android version.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: Mullvad has a lot of great features at the affordable price of just five euros. It has a robust ad and tracker blocker that performed well on text-based sites during our tests. It has handy advanced features like multi-hop, split tunneling, and access to a customer-only privacy-based search engine called Leta. Each subscription supports five simultaneous device connections.
Privacy and security: You can use Mullvad without attaching any personal information to an account. The privacy policy outlines all of the ins and outs of how the company handles data. Mullvad is a no-logs VPN that does not retain user data, and the company takes a stance against affiliate marketing by not engaging in it or any paid sponsorships to promote its service. The VPN’s policy measures were put to the test in 2023 when it was searched by the Swiss police, which found no data and handed none over.
Speed and performance: Mullvad performed well in our latest bout of speed tests. It reduced our download speeds by 10.57%, upload speeds by 4.23%, and increased our latency by only 15.90%. Just keep in mind that we don’t recommend choosing a VPN based solely on speed scores. Our tests are a snapshot of a single location at a single time. Your experience will likely vary based on your proximity to a VPN server, among other factors.
Streaming: We test every VPN we review against five regional Netflix catalogs: the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and Japan. Mullvad successfully granted open access to all catalogs without issue.
User experience and ease of use: Mullvad’s Android interface is simple but fully featured. It's easy to set up a connection and scroll through the server list. Advanced options are a couple of clicks away, making it a breeze to configure the VPN to your liking. It’s not as flashy as its higher-priced competitors, but we appreciated its simplicity and ease of use.
Who It's For
Users who want a basic VPN: Mullvad VPN will appeal to people seeking basic VPN coverage at a reasonable price without having to fork over sensitive personal information. It has a simple, easy-to-use interface, making it an excellent pick for those who want a bare-bones VPN.
Users who want affordable privacy: People who like an app with a minimalist appearance and a firm commitment to privacy will appreciate the Mullvad VPN ChromeOS app.
Specs & Configurations
500+ Servers Free Version Data Limit No Free Version Geographically Diverse Servers Server Locations 50 Countries Simultaneous VPN Connections 5 Supported Protocols on Android WireGuard, OpenVPN Supported Protocols on iOS OpenVPN, WireGuard Supported Protocols on macOS WireGuard, OpenVPN Learn More Mullvad VPN Review -
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Credit: Windscribe
![Windscribe VPN]()
Best Company TransparencyWindscribe VPN
Pros & Cons
Windscribe VPN features both an Android app and a Chrome extension, so you can use the service however you please on most Chromebook models. We especially like Windscribe's policies regarding anonymous sign-up and activity logging, which ensure that even Google itself can't identify your online traffic when Windscribe is running in the background.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: Windscribe allows for unlimited simultaneous device connections and grants access to a sizable physical server network. The VPN offers advanced features such as split tunneling and double-hop (also known as multi-hop) server connections. ChromeOS isn’t missing out on any notable features compared with the regular Android version of the app.
Privacy and security: Windscribe doesn't log your data. Its fast and anonymous signup process allows you to use the VPN app without giving up a lot of data about yourself. Next, you can pay for the app using various payment methods, including cryptocurrency. On Windscribe's website, you'll find the company's ethics statement and a transparency report detailing every law-enforcement request it receives.
Speed and performance: Windscribe's performance was solid. Download speed test scores decreased by only 10.66%, upload speed test scores decreased by 13.20%, and latency increased by 67.01%.
Streaming: We were able to watch Netflix without any restrictions while connected to Windscribe’s network. We could access the entire library when connected to five Windscribe servers in Australia, Canada, Japan, the UK, and the US.
User experience and ease of use: Minimalists will appreciate Windscribe's Android app interface. It’s simple and straightforward to use, without skimping on advanced settings. You can use the one-button dashboard to get connected quickly, or you can dive into a detailed settings menu full of tutorials and useful links.
Who It's For
Users who value privacy: Like many VPNs on the market, Windscribe is reasonably priced and fully featured. However, its transparency regarding user privacy is what sets the company apart from others. As a no-logs provider, Windscribe guarantees that no identifying information about its customers will be handed over to law enforcement that submits records requests.
Users who want to stay anonymous: Windscribe has a completely anonymous signup process that doesn't require an email address to get started. You can also make payments in crypto to avoid your identity being tied to the account whatsoever.
Specs & Configurations
500+ Servers Blocks Ads Free Version Free Version Data Limit 10GB Per Month Geographically Diverse Servers Server Locations 69 Countries Simultaneous VPN Connections Unlimited Learn More Windscribe VPN Review -
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Best For | Best Overall | Best Additional Features | Best for New Users | Best Global Server Collection | Best for All-in-One Security | Best Anonymous Account System | Best Company Transparency | Best Overall | Best Additional Features | Best for New Users |
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Simultaneous VPN Connections | 10 | 6 | Unlimited | 10-14 | Unlimited | 5 | Unlimited | 10 | 6 | Unlimited |
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Server Locations | 129 countries | 118 countries | 45 Countries | 105 Countries | 100 Countries | 50 Countries | 69 Countries | 129 countries | 118 countries | 45 Countries |
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Free Version Data Limit | Unlimited | No Free Version | 2GB per month | No Free Version | No Free Version | No Free Version | 10GB Per Month | Unlimited | No Free Version | 2GB per month |
Buying Guide: The Best VPNs for Chromebooks in 2026
Does Your Chromebook Need a VPN?
Yes. Whether you’re a student, professional, or just enjoy using ChromeOS, you’re likely browsing on the go. It’s best to secure all your devices with a VPN, including your Chromebook. When you pass your internet traffic through a VPN's encrypted tunnel, you ensure it cannot be spied on in transit. Furthermore, your IP address is hidden, which means your location is, too. For more details, you should read our story about why you need a VPN.
Additionally, a VPN doesn't have to break the bank. While this list isn't organized by price, you can view the cost of every VPN I've have tested in the chart below:
How to Set Up a VPN on a Chromebook
When configuring a VPN on a Chromebook, you have two main options: Download the Android app from the Google Play Store or install the service’s Chrome browser extension. The latter might be a lightweight version, depending on the VPN. Manual installation is possible, but I don't recommend it because of compatibility issues.
Use a Chrome VPN Extension
A Chrome browser extension is the way to go if you want a lightweight solution or are on a locked-down device that can’t run full-fledged applications without approval. The only problem is that a VPN running this way won’t protect application data. It only obfuscates traffic going through your browser. Sometimes, that's a good thing. If you want to secure your web traffic without your VPN interfering with video streaming, you can protect the browser and use an alternative app to stream Netflix. I have an entire roundup of Chrome browser extensions to help you pick the right one if that's how you choose to go.
However, this can also create confusion about what is and what isn't secure on your device. If you’re worried about making mistakes or want to ensure your full device is protected, then I suggest installing the full application, if possible.
Use an Android VPN App
It’s best to use an Android VPN app on your Chromebook for comprehensive coverage. Installing Android apps on your Chromebook is simple. Head over to the Google Play Store, find your preferred VPN, and click the install button. Once the app downloads, it should open automatically or populate a startup icon on your desktop. Launch the application, log in with your credentials, and switch it on. If you run into connection issues, make sure to check your network settings menu to ensure the VPN has the needed permissions.
Recommended by Our Editors
You'll need to run the latest version of ChromeOS and activate the Google Play Store from the ChromeOS settings menu. Just open the Settings app, search for Google Play, and toggle it on. If you're using a corporate Google account, however, you may not be able to activate Google Play without your system administrator's approval.
What Are the Best Chromebook VPN Features?
Most VPNs (and services in general) compatible with ChromeOS run as re-scaled Android apps. Thanks to Android's open development platform, ChromeOS users can expect a more complete experience compared with iOS and macOS. You’re likely to have a bevvy of excellent features to choose from with any of our top Chromebook picks. That said, I’ve listed a few of our favorite features below.
Simultaneous Device Connections
If you want to protect more than just your Chromebook, it’s best to pick a VPN that supports unlimited simultaneous device connections. That way, you can secure your phone, desktop, and any other commonly used devices.
Kill Switch
A kill switch disconnects your device from the internet if your VPN connection drops. Enabling the kill switch in your VPN app's settings menu is helpful if you frequently use public Wi-Fi.
Split Tunneling
Split tunneling lets you decide which apps use the VPN connection to send their traffic. That's useful for apps that tend to block VPN access, such as media streaming apps and mobile games.
Kim Key contributed to this story.