Mac devices are renowned for their security and relative immunity to malware and viruses. However, that doesn‘t mean Mac users can be complacent about their online privacy and security.
As Macs gain popularity, rising from around 9% market share in 2013 to nearly 16% in 2022, they become more attractive targets for hackers. Even if your Mac isn‘t directly targeted, your data is still vulnerable once it leaves your device onto the wild internet.
That‘s where a virtual private network (VPN) comes in. A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through remote servers, hiding your IP address and online activities from prying eyes. This allows you to browse anonymously, safely use public WiFi, bypass internet censorship, and more.
But with hundreds of VPN services on the market, how do you choose the right one for your Mac? I tested dozens of providers to find the top 5 best VPNs for Mac in 2024 based on factors like:
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Speed: Fast and reliable connections for smooth streaming, gaming, and everyday use.
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Security: Strong encryption, zero-logging policies, advanced leak protection.
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Unblocking: Ability to access restricted apps, sites, and streaming platforms.
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Compatibility: User-friendly apps and guides tailored for macOS.
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Support: Helpful customer service reachable 24/7.
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Pricing: Affordable plans and risk-free trials.
Without further ado, here are my top recommendations for the best VPNs for your Mac in 2024:
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1. NordVPN – Best VPN for Mac Overall
NordVPN is my top choice for Mac thanks to its excellent speeds, watertight security, smooth streaming, and intuitive macOS app.
It offers over 5,500 high-speed servers in 60 countries, ensuring you can always connect to a nearby server for the fastest speeds. NordVPN‘s custom NordLynx protocol utilizes WireGuard technology to achieve speeds up to 2X faster than competitors.
Unblocking popular sites and services is a cinch with NordVPN. I had no trouble accessing Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and 200+ other streaming platforms. The huge server network gives you tons of IP address options to bypass geo-restrictions with ease.
NordVPN ticks all the right boxes for privacy and security. It uses AES-256 encryption, offers a kill switch, DNS/IPv6 leak protection, and Secure Core servers that route your traffic through two VPN servers for double encryption. An independent audit confirmed NordVPN‘s strict no-logging policy.
The macOS app is user-friendly and allows 6 simultaneous connections. You can use it on your iPhone and other Apple devices too with a single account. NordVPN has 24/7 live chat support and offers a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
👉 Get NordVPNFREE trial now!
| Starting price | $3.29/month |
| Simultaneous connections | 6 |
| Server locations | 60 countries |
| Unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, etc. | Yes |
| Refund policy | 30-day money-back guarantee |
2. ExpressVPN – Fastest VPN for Mac
ExpressVPN is renowned as one of the fastest VPN services, making it great for Mac users who value speed. Its MediaStreamer DNS unblocks sites like Netflix with zero buffering or lags.
The Lightway protocol delivers ultra-fast connection speeds for HD streaming and gaming. Tests showed ExpressVPN increased download speeds by 29% and upload speed by 19% on average.
Based in the privacy-friendly British Virgin Islands, ExpressVPN operates an RAM-only network with zero user logs. 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and IP/DNS leak protection keep your Mac secure on public networks.
The ExpressVPN app has an intuitive interface optimized for macOS. Connecting is as simple as clicking one button. With 3,000+ global servers in 94 countries, you can always find a server ideal for your needs.
ExpressVPN works seamlessly across all Apple devices. A single subscription covers up to 5 devices simultaneously. Customer support agents are available 24/7 via live chat for any issues.
👉 Try ExpressVPN risk-free for 30 days!
| Starting price | $8.32/month |
| Simultaneous connections | 5 |
| Server locations | 94 countries |
| Unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, etc. | Yes |
| Refund policy | 30-day money-back guarantee |
3. Surfshark – Budget VPN for Mac
Surfshark is proof you don‘t need to spend big for a quality VPN. Despite its low cost, Surfshark offers excellent speeds, security, and streaming unblocking.
The Mac app makes it easy to toggle settings like the Whitelister, which lets you whitelist apps and sites to exclude from the VPN tunnel. Surfshark One bundles in free antivirus, search, and identity protection tools.
With 3,200+ servers in 65 countries, Surfshark rivals the networks of top competitors. It successfully unblocks Netflix, Prime Video, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and 300+ more sites.
Surfshark uses AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, and secure protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN. The private DNS and Multi-hop feature add further layers of privacy and security.
Top-notch live chat support is available round the clock. Surfshark offers a very generous 30-day refund policy – one of the longest in the industry.
At just $2.49/month for a 2-year plan, Surfshark gives you tremendous value without compromising on quality.
| Starting price | $2.49/month |
| Simultaneous connections | Unlimited |
| Server locations | 65 countries |
| Unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, etc. | Yes |
| Refund policy | 30-day money-back guarantee |
4. Atlas VPN – Best Free VPN for Mac
If you‘re looking for a free VPN for basic privacy protection, Atlas VPN is your best bet. It offers 10GB monthly data allowance – far more than other free VPNs.
The free version includes military-grade AES-256 encryption, IPv6/DNS leak protection, and a kill switch to keep your Mac secure on public WiFi. Paid plans unlock advanced security tools like data breach monitor, tracker blocker, and ad blocker.
Both free and paid users get unlimited simultaneous connections. Atlas VPN‘s small but well-optimized 750+ global server network reliably unblocks top streaming sites like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Hulu, and more.
Atlas VPN‘s free plan has some limitations. Speeds are slower than paid VPNs due to the limited server locations. Heavy streaming or torrenting may be frustrating with the 10GB monthly data cap. But it‘s perfectly fine for basic privacy protection during everyday browsing.
Upgrading to the paid version is affordable at just $1.39/month. You get everything – speed, security, unblocking – without the free plan limitations.
👉 Get Atlas VPN FREE or 80% OFF paid plans!
| Starting price | FREE / $1.39/month |
| Simultaneous connections | Unlimited |
| Server locations | 40+ countries |
| Unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, etc. | Yes (paid only) |
| Refund policy | 30-day money-back guarantee |
5. Mullvad – Most Anonymous VPN for Mac
Mullvad is a privacy-first VPN service based in Sweden. It has a barebones app and minimalist website, but what it lacks in flash, it makes up for in ironclad security and privacy.
When you sign up, you are only identified by a randomly generated account number. You can pay anonymously via cash, crypto, wire transfer, and other privacy-focused methods. The company keeps zero activity or connection logs.
Mullvad uses industry-standard 256-bit AES encryption channeled through OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols. Leak protection, port forwarding, and a kill switch boost online anonymity.
The streamlined macOS app lets you manually select servers from 800+ options in 35+ countries. Speeds are blazing fast, but Mullvad doesn‘t focus on unblocking streaming sites like Netflix.
If your main goal is untraceable, encrypted browsing rather than unblocking geo-restricted content, Mullvad is a top choice. Plans start at €5/month (around $5.50) and you can connect up to 5 devices.
👉 Get MullvadVPN now!
| Starting price | €5/month |
| Simultaneous connections | 5 |
| Server locations | 35+ countries |
| Unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, etc. | No |
| Refund policy | No refunds |
How to Choose the Best VPN for Mac
Here are some key factors to consider when selecting a VPN service for your Mac:
Encryption & Security – Look for top-tier AES 256-bit encryption, a no-logs policy, kill switch, leak protection, and other privacy tools.
Speed – Faster servers and protocols like WireGuard allow for lag-free streaming and browsing.
Server network – More servers in more locations increase speed and unblocking abilities.
Unblocking – Test if the VPN reliably unblocks geo-restricted platforms like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer etc.
Mac app – The VPN provider should have an intuitive native macOS app for easy use.
Cross-platform – Consider if the VPN also works on iPhone, iPad, and other Apple devices you own.
Simultaneous connections – More allowed connections means you can use the VPN on all your devices.
Customer support – Responsive 24/7 live chat and email support provide helpful assistance.
Risk-free trial – Try out the VPN risk-free before committing to take advantage of money-back guarantees.
Pricing – Look for affordable plans and discounts for long-term subscriptions.
By evaluating VPNs based on these criteria, you‘re sure to find the perfect service to keep your Mac safe and anonymous online.
FAQ
Do Macs come with a built-in VPN?
No, Mac devices do not have a built-in VPN client. To use a VPN on a Mac, you have to download and install VPN software from a third-party provider.
Do Macs need antivirus software?
Macs are generally more secure than Windows PCs, but they can still get infected by malware and viruses. So while not 100% necessary, running antivirus software provides an added layer of protection for your Mac. Many leading VPNs like NordVPN actually bundle antivirus tools into their apps.
Does a VPN slow down your internet?
A VPN can sometimes cause a minor speed reduction, but a well-optimized VPN will have minimal impact on your browsing. Top providers like ExpressVPN actually increase speed by mitigating bandwidth throttling by ISPs. Using protocols like WireGuard also speeds up connections.
Can you be tracked if using a VPN on a Mac?
A VPN masks your IP address and encrypts your internet traffic, making it virtually impossible to track your online activities. However, a VPN leak can potentially expose your IP, so be sure to use leak protection kill switches offered by leading VPNs.
Can you watch Netflix with a VPN on Mac?
Yes, VPNs allow you to bypass Netflix geo-restrictions and access more shows/movies from international catalogs. Make sure to choose a VPN that consistently unblocks Netflix like NordVPN or ExpressVPN.
In Summary:
- NordVPN – Best VPN for Mac overall
- ExpressVPN – Fastest speeds
- Surfshark – Most affordable
- Atlas VPN – Best free option
- Mullvad – Most anonymous
No matter your needs – streaming, torrenting, gaming, or just basic WiFi security – there‘s a Mac VPN that‘s perfect for you. I recommend starting with the free trial or money-back guarantee when testing out a new VPN to ensure it works seamlessly on your Mac.
Conclusion
Your Mac isn‘t invulnerable once you connect to the internet. But with a reliable VPN, you can rest assured your data is encrypted and your online activities are kept private.
I recommend NordVPN as the best VPN for most Mac users thanks to its uncompromising mix of speed, unblocking abilities, watertight security, intuitive interface, and competitive pricing.
Take advantage of NordVPN‘s free trial and see how seamlessly it protects your Mac online. Plus you can use it on all your other Apple devices like iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV with a single account.
Stay safe!
