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Best VPNs for Hong Kong: Bypass Online Censorship

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Hong Kong might be a semi-autonomous city, but Beijing isn’t far behind with the puppet strings – especially considering the security law that passed in 2020, effectively decreasing the city’s allotted freedoms.

So, before Beijing has the chance to induct the city into the Great Firewall of China, you need the best VPN for Hong Kong that’s capable of bypassing online censorship.

This is already a challenge – finding a reliable VPN isn’t easy.

But if Hong Kong becomes as strict as China, you also need a VPN capable of keeping your online activities private.

Luckily, after testing hundreds of VPNs, I found the perfect solution: NordVPN.

Not only is NordVPN capable of beating online censorship, but it also offers the best security features that help hide that you’re using a VPN in the first place – and it makes obtaining a Hong Kong IP address (if you’re traveling abroad) easy!

But ExpressVPN and Surfshark are close runner-ups.

Keep reading for the full story – and to find out which VPN is the best for you!

Top 3 VPNs for Hong Kong

OBFUSCATION FEATURES
Surfshark
Surfshark Devices

Surfshark offers two obfuscation features for Hong Kong users, one of which is lightweight and automatically applied when using either OpenVPN protocol. The second feature is heavier – but ensures no one will know you’re using a VPN ever. You’ll also get server options in Hong Kong for accessing local shows or online banking from overseas!

4.6/5
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BEST CHOICE
NordVPN
NordVPN devices

With 5200+ servers and a robust obfuscation feature, NordVPN ensures Hong Kong users stay anonymous – even if they join the Great Firewall of China. NordVPN also bypasses online censorship easily, including popular apps and streaming platforms (like Netflix). Best of all, the provider offers 70+ servers in Hong Kong – so there’s no struggle obtaining a Hong Kong IP.

4.8/5
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UNLIMITED STREAMING
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN different devices

ExpressVPN boasts RAM-only servers (with three in Hong Kong) that promise security and privacy to all Hong Kong users, regardless of Beijing’s involvement. But where ExpressVPN shines is in its ability to unblock all popular websites and streaming platforms – including Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ (and local Hong Kong shows when travelling abroad)!

4.6/5
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The best VPNs for Hong Kong weren’t easy to find.

They had to have the best security features to keep your online activities hidden and the ability to unblock popular websites – with RAM-only servers (including in Hong Kong), obfuscation features, and access to streaming platforms being a huge plus.

But I found five that passed every test on my list.

Stick around to find out how my investigation led to my conclusions!

In a Rush? Here’s a Shortcut! (My Top 5 Picks)

If you’re in a rush and hoping for a shortcut, here are my top five picks:

But if you have time, join me for the full hike!

I discuss in-depth why each VPN fits the bill for being a reliable choice in (or out of) Hong Kong.

NordVPN logo
NordVPN devices

NordVPN

Best Choice

With a massive server network for bypassing online censorship, a double VPN for hiding your VPN use, and an obfuscation feature for added security, it’s easy to see NordVPN doesn’t cut corners – a necessity for Hong Kong users. And if that’s not enough, NordVPN also offers competitive speeds, so a slow connection won’t stop you from enjoying your favorite online activities (like using NordVPN to watch US Netflix)! Best of all, NordVPN makes it easy to use a Hong Kong IP to access your favorite local TV stations (like ViuTV) while traveling abroad.

Detailed List of the 5 Best VPNs for Hong Kong

Ready to dive in?

Here’s a close-up of each VPN that passed my tests on security, privacy, streaming, speed, and accessing local Hong Kong content from overseas:

1. NordVPN – Best Overall (+Best for Hong Kong IPs)

nordvpn for hong kong

NordVPN offers the ultimate solution to Hong Kong users looking to bypass internet censorship while maintaining their security and privacy – especially as it has a team specifically for unblocking websites in countries like Saudi Arabia, Iran, and, of course, China!

First, users can utilize NordVPN’s Obfuscation feature.

This is used to obfuscate your data and bypass VPN-detection measures.

In other words – no one will know you’re using a VPN, including your ISP and government!

This is an extremely useful feature for Hong Kong users and might someday become essential.

The tricky part about NordVPN’s obfuscation feature is it requires the OpenVPN TCP protocol, which might slow your connection.

And as the list of obfuscated servers is already limited, this doesn’t give you many options.

Still, it’s a great feature for Hong Kong users to have the option of using.

NordVPN’s obfuscation feature also beats ExpressVPN, ProtonVPN, and PIA – none of which offer any obfuscation feature at all.

enabled nordvpn obfuscated server setting

Another feature that puts NordVPN above the others on my list is its Double VPN feature.

This routes your IP through two servers, meaning you get double the encryption.

This is especially useful if you’re a Hong Kong user participating in online protests over the 2020 security law (or anything else, for that matter).

In fact, NordVPN is the only provider on this list that offers a Double VPN feature!

nordvpn double vpn feature

Of course, the Double VPN feature limits you even more, as you don’t have the option of choosing which servers you connect to.

So, until both of the above features become necessary, I recommend sticking to the NordLynx protocol and enjoying the lightning-fast speeds that come with it.

This also means all 5,200+ RAM-only servers in 59 countries will be free to use – along with the multitude of websites and streaming platforms they unblock!

That’s right. You can watch an episode of Bob’s Burgers on Hulu from Hong Kong without issue!

Take that, geo-locked content.

hulu nordvpn

NordVPN also offers 70+ servers in Hong Kong, topping every other VPN on my list!

This means it’s easy to watch your favorite Hong Kong stations while traveling abroad – so you won’t miss out on TVB Korean Drama!

The provider also comes with affordable subscription fees and a 30-day money-back guarantee!

Take a look at their prices:

But if you want an EVEN BIGGER discount, check out our exclusive deal!

Pros

Cons

2. Surfshark – Obfuscated Servers

surfshark vpn for hong kong

Surfshark is another top contender for the most reliable VPNs for Hong Kong – namely, because it offers two separate obfuscation features!

The first feature, Camouflage Mode, is my favorite, as it’s the most lightweight solution on my list that still protects your overall security and privacy from third-party spies (looking at you trying to sneak in, Beijing).

For users in Hong Kong, not only does this mean your VPN use will be hidden – but also that your speeds won’t be negatively affected!

This lightweight feature is automatically enabled when you connect to Surfshark using either OpenVPN protocol.

And, best of all, you can connect to any of the 3,200+ RAM-only servers in 65 countries with it enabled – including servers in Hong Kong!

Here’s how to change your protocol in the Surfshark app:

And because speed always matters, it’s worth noting OpenVPN UDP is faster than TCP.

But regardless of which version you choose, your speeds are sure to be blazing fast!

Surfshark is easily the fastest VPN on my list.

The second obfuscation feature, NoBorders Mode, is a heavier option – but as I mentioned earlier, using obfuscation in Hong Kong might be necessary someday.

So having the option is a good thing!

You can enable it by navigating to Settings > Advanced and switching the slider next to NoBorders to the right.

Obfuscation features alone aren’t what got Surfshark in my top five, though.

The VPN provider is also efficient at unblocking websites!

This means if Hong Kong falls prey to online censorship, Surfshark will quickly help you bypass it.

And, of course, let’s not forget its ability to unblock streaming services!

You can access Hulu, Netflix, and BBC iPlayer regardless of your location.

Surfshark beats ProtonVPN and PIA when it comes to streaming, ties with NordVPN, and comes in at a very close second to ExpressVPN!

So sit back, grab some chips, and enjoy an episode of Inside No. 9!

streaming on bbc iplayer with surfshark vpn uk server

Surfshark also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee and is the most affordable VPN on my list!

But for a MASSIVE discount, sign up using this link!

Pros

Cons

3. ExpressVPN – Unlimited Streaming

expressvpn for hong kong

While ExpressVPN doesn’t have a dedicated obfuscation feature, it uses TrustedServer Technology on all 3,000+ RAM-only servers (including three in Hong Kong) – meaning they’re obfuscated by default!

This is something no other provider on my list offers!

So, regardless of how involved Hong Kong is with the Chinese government, you’ll enjoy the utmost anonymity at all times.

They won’t have any idea you’re using a VPN!

But the thing about ExpressVPN that I love the most is how many websites and streaming services it reliably unblocks.

This includes Netflix US and UK, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Amazon Prime, and more!

And ExpressVPN does it better than every other provider listed here, which is an accomplishment itself.

I never struggle to find a working server on any streaming platform – including Hong Kong TV stations via ExpressVPN’s Hong Kong servers.

stream sites with expressvpn

What makes this even better is ExpressVPN’s lightning-fast speeds – so you can enjoy binging Twin Peaks without any buffering!

ExpressVPN is one of the fastest VPNs on my list, coming in only second to Surfshark.

streaming on netflix with expressvpn usa server

But if you want to take your streaming speeds to the next level, you can also use the provider’s proprietary protocol, Lightway!

The Lightway protocol is faster than OpenVPN and WireGuard, but just as secure.

Throw in other robust security features and a 30-day money-back guarantee, and it’s no wonder ExpressVPN makes the list as a trustworthy VPN for Hong Kong.

Of course, there’s always a catch.

ExpressVPN is the most expensive VPN on this list.

But as they say, you get what you pay for!

Plus, if you use this link to sign up, that premium price tag will be discounted substantially!

Pros

Cons

4. ProtonVPN – Security & Unwavering Support

protonvpn for hong kong

ProtonVPN has a lot to offer Hong Kong users – and two of those things are security and unwavering support.

At the announcement of the security law in 2020, ProtonVPN publicly broadcasted its support for Hong Kong.

“Today we are standing in solidarity with the people of Hong Kong after the Chinese government announced a new security law designed to stifle free speech and peaceful protest,” said the VPN provider in a May 2020 blog post.

Soon after, ProtonVPN made another announcement that it would donate 50% of its revenue from July, August, and September (2020) from Hong Kong to 612 Humanitarian Relief Fund and Stand With Hong Kong.

This ended up raising HK$800,000.

This kind of support hasn’t been remotely touched by other VPN providers, including the ones on my list, making ProtonVPN an anomaly.

But that’s not all.

ProtonVPN pairs this support with the highest security, including 256-bit AES encryption, full disk encryption, and secure core architecture.

Plus, its apps are the only open source ones on this list – so you can immediately see what you’re counting on for protection.

As for obfuscation, the provider doesn’t offer it yet.

However, they confirmed on Reddit at the beginning of 2021 that it’s a work in progress:

reddit discussion on protonvpn obfuscation feature

But if you’re hoping this dedicated provider can bypass online censorship – and unblock geo-restricted content – you’re in luck!

So don’t worry, you can watch Hell’s Kitchen on Hulu, even from Hong Kong.

streaming on hulu with protonvpn us server

And while ProtonVPN’s speeds aren’t up to par with the other VPNs on this list, they’re still fast enough to enjoy streaming with no lag on any of their 1,240+ servers in 55 countries!

This includes 17 servers in Hong Kong!

Plus, they’re affordably priced:

ProtonVPN Annual Prices in USD
ProtonVPN Plans and Annual Pricing (USD)

But you can save EVEN MORE when you use this linkbacked by the provider’s 30-day money-back guarantee!

Pros

Cons

5. Private Internet Access – Largest Server Network

private internet access vpn page

Private Internet Access (PIA) takes the final spot on my list, thanks to offering the most massive server network on my list: 30,800+ servers in 78 countries – including Hong Kong!

This is a useful feature if you’re in Hong Kong, as it means bypassing internet censorship is easy!

And PIA is undoubtedly great at helping you access unrestricted internet.

Plus, the provider offers the strongest encryption (256-bit AES), the best VPN protocols (OpenVPN and WireGuard), and blazing fast speeds.

private internet access vpn openvpn protocol

In other words: you can enjoy your favorite activities from a safe, secure (and fast!) online environment while visiting or living in Hong Kong!

There are a couple of downsides, though.

First, PIA promised obfuscated servers in the past but has since deleted its comments on the subject on Reddit:

This makes me skeptical on if they’ll eventually get an obfuscation feature.

And it’s especially disappointing considering the top three VPNs on this list offer top-tier obfuscation.

The second downside is that while PIA works with Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Netflix at the time of writing, the VPN isn’t a reliable way to unblock the streaming services long-term.

streaming on bbc iplayer with private internet access vpn uk server

Still, you’ll enjoy unlimited access to popular websites and apps – plus access to the SOCKS5 Proxy and a 30-day money-back guarantee!

Here’s a quick look at its pricing:

But once again, if you use our exclusive discount link, you’ll save even more!

Pros

Cons

Buying Guide: The Best VPNs for Hong Kong

Here’s a thorough buying guide designed to help you make the best decision on which VPN is perfect for you!

Want to Shop Around First? Make Sure You Look For These Features!

If you’re eager to shop around before settling on the best VPN for Hong Kong, make sure you look for these features:

  • Security Features – if you’re living in or visiting Hong Kong, you need a VPN with the bare bones of security features. This includes military-grade encryption (256-bit AES encryption), the best VPN protocols (OpenVPN and WireGuard), and a kill switch. But if you want to go the extra mile, you should also look for VPNs with an obfuscation feature. This will ensure no one knows you’re using a VPN – including your ISP and government. Other useful security features include a Double VPN, a proprietary protocol, and RAM-only servers.
  • Unblocks Websites – Hong Kong is still evading Beijing’s puppet strings, but if the 2020 security law is anything to go by, it’s only a matter of time. This means that the semi-autonomous city might deal with the same censored internet as the rest of China in the future. When this happens, you need to be a step ahead of the game by having a VPN capable of bypassing online censorship – such as popular websites and apps. Even better if the VPN unblocks streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer.
  • Fast Speeds – finding a VPN with fast speeds will ensure you can do all of your favorite online activities without slowing your internet connection. This is especially necessary if you plan on using obfuscation or double VPN features, as the extra protection can negatively impact your connection.
  • Large Server Network – this plays into the point above; if you find a VPN with a massive server network, you have a better chance of unblocking websites and streaming platforms without sacrificing speed. The bare minimum is 1,000+ servers. It’s preferred if it reaches 2,000-3,000+ servers. The more, the better.
  • Servers in Hong Kong – if you plan on visiting other countries, having a VPN with servers in Hong Kong will help you access content that’s blocked outside of China (such as streaming services, local banking websites, etc.).
  • Fair Subscription Fees – like all VPNs aren’t created equal; all VPNs aren’t priced equally. Sometimes this shows a VPN service is superior. Other times, it shows a service is over-priced. Make sure you compare all of the VPN features, so you can accurately gauge if the service is worth the cost. In that same vein, make sure cheap VPNs aren’t skipping necessary features.

Can I Use a Free VPN in Hong Kong?

I don’t recommend using a free VPN in Hong Kong – or anywhere else in the world.

Free VPNs seem sturdy from a distance, but once you’re up close, the cracks start showing.

The small cracks warn of bandwidth restrictions, a limited server selection, and lackluster security.

The medium cracks paint a clear picture of some providers subsidizing the cost of the service by selling user data.

And the most significant cracks tell stories of VPNs riddled with malware or VPNs that are entirely fake.

To put it poetically, most free VPNs are crumbling buildings, and you don’t want to be stuck inside when they fall.

That said, if you’re super desperate for a free VPN, it’s always better to use a freemium VPN service (a free VPN with a premium option).

My recommendation is ProtonVPN.

protonvpn free vpn online

You probably recognize ProtonVPN from my list above.

Well, the free version offers 17 servers in three countries (US, Netherlands, and Japan) and no data caps – meaning you can use it as much as you want.

However, while ProtonVPN helps you access blocked content from Hong Kong, it’s important to remember, should the city join the Great Firewall of China, no free VPN service (including this one) will be safe to use.

For this reason, consider upgrading to the premium version ASAP.

Alternatively, access our exclusive deal on NordVPN by clicking here.

Which VPN Has Hong Kong Server Free?

There are no free VPNs with servers in Hong Kong that are safe to use.

Instead, if you need a VPN with free Hong Kong servers, I recommend using a free trial for a premium VPN or utilizing a premium provider’s 30-day money-back guarantee.

A great example of a premium VPN offering a free trial is Surfshark, though you need to be a new member and sign up via the mobile app to activate the 7-day free trial.

If you’re fine with utilizing a 30-day money-back guarantee, however, NordVPN is my recommendation.

Simply use NordVPN until you no longer need a Hong Kong server (or until you reach 30 days of use) and then contact the provider for your money back

How to Use a VPN in Hong Kong? It’s Easy! Just Follow These 6 Steps

If you’re worried using a VPN in Hong Kong might be complicated, don’t worry – it’s not!

Just follow these step by step directions:

  1. Choose one of my recommended VPNs (or a VPN you found after thorough research) and purchase a subscription.
  1. Download and install the VPN app on your device(s).
  2. Open the VPN app and sign in to your account.
  3. Click the Connect button for the fastest server near you. Or, if you need a server from a specific country, select your preferred location from the server list.
nordvpn app
  1. Open your browser and check for IP, DNS, and WebRTC leaks.
  2. Enjoy bypassing internet censorship!

How to Get a Hong Kong IP Address?

Getting a Hong Kong IP address is just as easy!

Simply follow these steps:

  1. Choose a VPN with servers in Hong Kong – here’s a look at how many Hong Kong servers each VPN on my list has:
VPN ProviderServers in Hong Kong?Number of Servers
NordVPNYes70+
SurfsharkYesUnspecified
ExpressVPNYes3
ProtonVPNYes17
Private Internet AccessYesUnspecified
  1. Purchase a subscription.
  1. Download and install the VPN app on your device(s).
  2. Open the VPN app and sign in to your account.
nordvpn app
  1. Navigate to the server list. If there’s a search bar, type in Hong Kong.
nordvpn hong kong server
  1. Click on a Hong Kong server and connect.
nordvpn connected to hong kong server
  1. Open your browser and check for IP, DNS, and WebRTC leaks.
  2. Enjoy accessing blocked content while you’re visiting other countries!

How to Unblock Chinese TV in Hong Kong?

cantonese tv in hong kong

If you’re missing Hong Kong’s Cantonese TV streams because you’re visiting the mainland, don’t stress!

You can easily access all 14 channels by connecting to a Hong Kong server via your chosen VPN.

Just follow the steps in the previous section, and you’ll have access to:

  • TVB iNews
  • TVB Pearl
  • TVB International
  • TVB Sports
  • TVB Mainland News
  • TVB Korean Drama
  • TVB Jade
  • TVB Chinese Drama
  • TVBS News
  • TV weekly
  • myTV Live
  • myTV SUPER
  • J2
  • J5

FAQ

What VPNs Aren't Safe to Use in Hong Kong?

Almost all free VPNs aren’t safe to use in Hong Kong.

In addition to free VPNs, you should avoid HolaVPN, Turbo VPN, Solo VPN, and Snap VPN.

But in general, try avoiding any VPN with inadequate security (anything below 256-bit AES).

What Websites Are Blocked in Hong Kong?

Websites owned by HKChronicles, Transitional Justice Commission, Presbyterian Church in Taiwan, Democratic Progressive Party, and Recruitment Centre of National Armed Forces are blocked in Hong Kong.

However, while Hong Kong doesn’t currently suffer from an overly-censored internet, the list will grow if the city falls under China’s control.

For this reason, purchasing a VPN subscription now – before it’s too late – is necessary.

Is TikTok Banned in Hong Kong?

While TikTok isn’t banned in Hong Kong, the platform banned Hong Kong users from using the app when the security law was announced in 2020.

This was due to worry over Chinese authorities having significant power over user data.

That said, you can still access TikTok by using a reliable VPN, such as NordVPN.

Are VPNs Illegal in Hong Kong?

Because of the “One Country, Two Systems” policy, VPNs aren’t illegal in Hong Kong.

However, there is a VPN ban in effect in mainland China.

Should Hong Kong fall under Beijing’s control, the VPN ban will likely extend to Hong Kong as well.

This is why getting a VPN ASAP is essential.

Will Hong Kong's Security Law Impact My VPN?

When the security law passed in 2020, several VPN providers took down their Hong Kong servers due to the potential risk of China taking control and seizing them.

However, there’s no reason to believe the security law currently influences or will influence VPN services in the foreseeable future.

Furthermore, most providers who took down their Hong Kong servers have since put them back up.

Should this change (for example, if Hong Kong joins the Great Firewall of China), we’re likely to hear about it in the news before a new law is passed.

Does the Great Firewall of China Impact Hong Kong?

As per the “One Country, Two Systems” policy, Hong Kong and China are governed by different data privacy laws.

Because of this, Hong Kong is not impacted by the Great Firewall of China.

That said, it’s no secret that China is trying to change this.

There’s always the chance that, in the future, Hong Kong will be forced to join the Great Firewall.

Will a VPN Unblock Netflix in Hong Kong?

Yes, a reliable VPN will unblock Netflix in Hong Kong.

However, not all VPNs are capable of doing so.

Choose a VPN from this guide for the best results, such as NordVPN.

Will a VPN Unblock Hulu in Hong Kong?

Yes, a reliable VPN will unblock Hulu in Hong Kong.

However, not all VPNs are capable of doing so.

Choose a VPN from this guide for the best results.

ExpressVPN is my recommended choice for streaming Hulu.

Conclusion

It’s true Hong Kong is currently free of mainland China’s claws – but for how long?

With how hard Beijing is pushing for control, it might only be a matter of time.

This is why getting a VPN right now is so important.

After all, if you wait too long, you’ll be stuck trying to find a reliable VPN while simultaneously evading China’s VPN ban.

Luckily, the process is easy.

I did the hard work for you!

NordVPN will get the job done, helping you bypass online censorship without giving away that you’re using a VPN at all – or sacrificing speed.

So don’t waste any more time!

Sign up with this link (with a massive discount) to secure your privacy before it’s too late.

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