TikTok is no longer expected to be banned in the US. After months of negotiations and several deadline extensions, ByteDance has restructured its US operations to address concerns over Chinese influence and control. While it's unclear how effective the split will be, a nationwide ban now seems unlikely. That said, TikTok could still face hurdles as age-verification laws gain traction across the US. No matter what happens, a VPN can help ensure continued access if restrictions arise. We've been testing VPNs for over a decade, and the services highlighted here may help bypass potential blocks. We've selected VPNs with strong coverage in the US and nearby regions in case policies change, so read on for our top picks. And if this is your first time hearing about the proposed ban and subsequent deal, check our FAQ for background and potential impacts.
Overview
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![Proton VPN]()
Best OverallProton VPN
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![NordVPN]()
Best Premium FeaturesNordVPN
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![ExpressVPN]()
Best for Diverse Server SelectionExpressVPN
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![TunnelBear VPN]()
Best for NewbiesTunnelBear VPN
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![Surfshark VPN]()
Best for Multi-Device HouseholdsSurfshark VPN
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![Windscribe VPN]()
Best Privacy PolicyWindscribe 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 is the best VPN all around, and that remains true for site-specific tasks like accessing TikTok. We like its free tier, too. Tack on a laundry list of advanced privacy tools in a friendly UI, and you have our top pick for streaming hours of TikTok dances.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: Proton packs a ton of features into its reasonably priced subscription. Each plan allows 10 simultaneous device connections, so you can scroll through TikTok on all your devices without worrying about disconnecting. You can try Proton for free with its generous plan, which offers a handful of servers to choose from and no data limits.
Privacy and security: You want a private VPN if you’re accessing content that is restricted in your country. Proton takes privacy seriously with a steadfast commitment to transparency and accountability that you don’t often see in the VPN space. All of Proton’s apps are open-source, so you never have to question if there’s a hidden vulnerability that could compromise your data. Further, 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. Our speeds were steady as well, so you shouldn’t have to worry about any annoying buffering issues on video sites. If TikTok ever faces a ban or censorship, Proton should be able to get around any blocks.
User experience and ease of use: Despite being an affordable VPN, Proton’s apps feel anything but cheap. The VPN app is streamlined and easy to use for beginners and experienced users alike. Features are easily accessible and clearly labeled on both desktop and mobile interfaces. It’s easy to tell when you’re connected to a server, and you can access advanced options with just a couple of clicks.
Who It's For
People who want a free VPN: Proton’s free version is robust and packs in many features that competing free options lack. It’s a great tool for securing your privacy on a budget. If you can deal with the limitations, Proton’s free version is more than viable as your main VPN.
Privacy-conscious users: Proton’s unwavering commitment to transparency and privacy makes it one of the best options for the privacy-conscious. With open-source apps and regular audits, you can keep tabs on exactly how the company is responding to threats to user data.
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
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Best Premium FeaturesNordVPN
Pros & Cons
NordVPN has maintained a consistent and modern design across all its platforms for many years. It has also consistently delivered impressive performance scores in our tests. All this comes at a price, though, as NordVPN charges well above the average monthly price we've seen across the industry. You get your money's worth and more, as Nord’s premium subscription has plenty of excellent features for bypassing censorship and content bans.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: NordVPN’s NordLynx protocol is fast, open-source, and reliable. 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 through 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 desktop apps can be a tad cluttered and overwhelming, especially if you’re new to VPNs. The dashboard is excellent for advanced users, offering a range of useful menus and tools. For an easier user experience, we recommend the mobile version of Nord. It has all of the same great features but in a more digestible format.
Who It's For
People who want more than just a VPN: NordVPN does it all, but it's not cheap. That said, it provides a consistent, full-featured experience across all platforms.
Video streamers: People looking to access local streaming content will appreciate NordVPN's extensive server selection. Nord’s speeds were steady enough to grant stable, reliable video streams.
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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Credit: ExpressVPN
![ExpressVPN]()
Best for Diverse Server SelectionExpressVPN
Pros & Cons
ExpressVPN has one of the most diverse server networks, ensuring you can access TikTok no matter where you are located, regardless of bans or age verification requirements. The company even has coverage in underserved regions such as Africa and the Middle East.
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 well-suited for accessing video content. You can also take advantage of split tunneling if you want to browse TikTok on your local network while the rest of your traffic remains encrypted.
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, making it a solid choice for data-intensive tasks like streaming or downloading videos.
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
Binge watchers: ExpressVPN is for those who want fast, reliable access to video content. The VPN's specialized Lightway protocol makes it an excellent option for streaming, gaming, and scrolling.
Mobile users: ExpressVPN’s simple mobile interface makes it easy to use, even without prior knowledge.
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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![TunnelBear VPN]()
Best for NewbiesTunnelBear VPN
Pros & Cons
TunnelBear is affordable at $9.99 per month and offers a great mobile experience, ideal for watching TikTok on the go. For that price, you can use the service across an unlimited number of devices without any data limits. One notable feature is the city-level server selection, which makes it easy to find and save a familiar location. It's also the simplest VPN to get started with for new users.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: TunnelBear’s premium app is affordable and feature-rich. You get advanced obfuscation with GhostBear, a protocol that mimics HTTPS to bypass common 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. The premium version has servers in 45 countries and doesn’t place a cap on simultaneous device connections.
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 in testing. The VPN unblocked Netflix in all tested regions without fail. TunnelBear has servers in 45 countries, providing a 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, especially on mobile. 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 taps away.
Who It's For
VPN beginners: TunnelBear tops our list as the most beginner-friendly VPN app with a fun theme, easy-to-use features, and a no-clutter interface. You can try it out for free without entering any payment information or personal details.
Design fans: TunnelBear is one of the few services out there that doesn’t take itself too seriously. TunnelBear's design philosophy is a breath of fresh air compared with the many dark-themed VPN apps on the market. It’s fun and whimsical, yet one of the best VPNs out there.
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: Surfshark
![Surfshark VPN]()
Best for Multi-Device HouseholdsSurfshark VPN
Pros & Cons
Surfshark VPN is expensive, but it offers reliable TikTok access on unlimited devices. Everyone in the same household can scroll and enjoy content from their favorite creators without having to connect and disconnect to make space.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: Surfshark's network has strong global coverage, with presence in 100 countries, making it a good pick for accessing regional content. 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.
Privacy and security: Privacy policies can be confusing and dense. Surfshark takes a better approach, offering an in-depth yet 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: User experience is consistent between applications. Each version of Surfshark has a sleek design with clearly described features. It's easy to pick up and use as a new user, and it has enough depth for more experienced users to tinker with.
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 biggest selling point for Surfshark is its ecosystem of privacy tools. It's a good choice for those who may not want a handful of subscriptions to
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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Credit: Windscribe
![Windscribe VPN]()
Best Privacy PolicyWindscribe VPN
Pros & Cons
Windscribe's above-and-beyond dedication to user privacy and data transparency makes Windscribe a solid pick in the event of a TikTok ban. Add to that a stellar set of mobile apps, and you have a great pick for scrolling on the go.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: Windscribe’s premium plan allows unlimited simultaneous device connections and provides access to a sizable physical server network spanning 69 countries. You can also use advanced features such as split tunneling. If you’re unsure if the VPN is the right pick for you, then you can try it out for free. With the free plan, you get 10GB of browsing data per month if you confirm your email address, or 2GB if you don't.
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. This is an excellent policy that we hope more VPN companies will adopt in the future.
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%. Windscribe delivered reliable, above-average speeds, making it excellent for streaming video and downloading content.
Streaming: Using Windscribe, we were able to watch Netflix without any restrictions. 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 modest app interface. The Settings menu includes a helpful guide to all of the app's features. For example, if you don't know which VPN protocol to use, open the information button next to the setting's label and read the corresponding support page, which explains what the feature is and how to use it.
Who It's For
Users who want anonymity: For those who need the ultimate in identity protection—including a completely anonymous signup process that doesn't require an email address to get started and the option to pay for your plan in crypto
Users who want advanced browsing controls: Windscribe offers a content-filtering feature called R.O.B.E.R.T. You can use it to block ads, gambling content, malware, porn, social media, and more during your browsing.
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 Premium Features | Best for Diverse Server Selection | Best for Newbies | Best for Multi-Device Households | Best Privacy Policy | Best Overall | Best Premium Features | Best for Diverse Server Selection |
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Simultaneous VPN Connections | 10 | 6 | 10-14 | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 10 | 6 | 10-14 |
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Server Locations | 129 countries | 118 countries | 105 Countries | 45 Countries | 100 Countries | 69 Countries | 129 countries | 118 countries | 105 Countries |
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Free Version Data Limit | Unlimited | No Free Version | No Free Version | 2GB per month | No Free Version | 10GB Per Month | Unlimited | No Free Version | No Free Version |
Buying Guide: The Best VPNs for TikTok in 2026
Why Was the US TikTok Ban Proposed?
The battle with ByteDance was over media control and alleged security concerns regarding ByteDance’s intentions with the user data of US citizens. United States officials said they worried that China could force ByteDance to hand over US citizens' data, or the country could use the app for political influence.
The Protecting Americans From Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act (PAFACA) was signed into law on April 24, 2024. This law allowed the president to suspend or ban any platform they deem a "foreign adversary-controlled application.”
On January 17, 2025, the Supreme Court unanimously upheld the proposal, finding that the ban does not violate First Amendment rights to freedom of speech.
On January 22, 2026, ByteDance closed a deal with Joint Venture LLC to avoid the ban. The new $14 billion deal split responsibility for the company's US operations between four companies: Silver Lake, Oracle, MGX, and ByteDance. ByteDance retains a 19.9% majority ownership, while the other three investing companies each hold 15%. Notably, MDX is a state-owned AI investment firm based in Abu Dhabi that has been cited by detractors as hypocritical, given the law's initial aims of divestment from foreign influence.
How Will the New TikTok Deal Impact US-Based Users?
As of January 2026, the extent of this deal has yet to be seen. Since ByteDance remains a majority shareholder, the general user experience may remain the same. There are rumors of a new US-only TikTok app in the works, but the deal announcement didn't mention one.
At the moment, there have been no immediate effects. There could be far-reaching censorship measures put in place to protect US interests, as some believed was happening shortly after the deal went through. However, the new TikTok owners claimed a power outage was responsible for the lack of US political content being shown in the feed. The rest is up for speculation, as only time will tell what the true impact will be.
Will My VPN Work With TikTok?
Yes! Since no ban is actively in the works, you should have no issues accessing your TikTok account. However, that could change in an instant. The TikTok ban and the messy, lengthy process that preceded a deal show how tumultuous and often inconsistent the US privacy landscape is right now. Censorship measures could limit your access to social media sites like TikTok, and a VPN can help you prepare for that potential legislation. Despite censorship, VPNs are helping people access Pornhub in the US following statewide bans that mimic the obscenity laws of yesteryear.
Recommended by Our Editors
Best VPN Features for TikTok
If you decide to download a VPN to access TikTok, make sure to follow these steps first:
- Check for split tunneling: This feature allows you to send only TikTok traffic through the VPN while the rest of your traffic appears to come from your true IP address. With daily data breaches becoming more common, you may not fully trust a certain company to handle all of your data and traffic. Split tunneling lets you access a banned app or website without slowing down your speeds on other sites you trust.
- Try the free or trial version: Always try any app before you sign up for a paid service. Most companies offer trials. You can also try free VPN apps, but do your due diligence. Some free VPNs can be predatory with your data. Regardless, ensure you can access TikTok using the app before signing up for an expensive or long-term subscription.
- Look for non-US server locations: It is critical that you choose a VPN that allows you to access server locations outside the United States, in case of censorship or a future ban. Always check a VPN's server list before buying. The best options will be servers nearby, such as in Canada or Mexico. Generally, the closer the server is to your real location, the better and more stable your speeds will be.
Finally, read the policies and terms of service. If the VPN is good, this information should be readily available and easy to parse. VPNs that hide this information or don’t display it at all are often not worth buying. For example, Proton offers easy-to-navigate privacy policies with links to relevant sections. You should also read the app's terms of sale to find out if you can get a refund for any reason.
Will a VPN Affect My TikTok Streaming Speeds?
Yes, a VPN always impacts your data speeds. Your data will usually slow down, even with the fastest VPN services. In our latest round of testing, we recorded the median speed with and without a VPN running and calculated the percent change. The greater the change, the more the VPN impacts your internet connection speeds. To measure speeds, we use the Ookla Speedtest tool. (Note: Ookla is owned by Ziff Davis, PCMag.com's parent company. For more, see the ethics policy in our Editorial Mission Statement.)
Here are the latest speed test results for all of the VPNs we've tested:
Remember that the numbers above represent optimal conditions; your experience may change depending on your location.
Do I Really Need a VPN for TikTok in the US?
Not right now, but that situation could change quickly. A VPN could be your ticket to TikTok if the platform faces censorship legislation or if another ban is proposed down the line. Of course, there are other uses for a VPN. You can use it to spoof your location to access geo-restricted Netflix shows or mask your traffic from advertisers and snoops. If you're looking for other ways to decrease your data footprint, check out our guide to disappearing online.