Google Chrome’s popularity is undisputed, with the market share double that of the next most popular browser. Despite all the glory, people still need the best VPN for Chrome to safeguard their privacy and encrypt traffic. Many VPN providers offer standalone applications that work with Chrome (and other browsers).
However, when you purchase one, you also get full-fledged apps that you can use on other devices. That said, getting the best VPN extension for Chrome kills two flies with one hit. We assessed over 30 VPNs to streamline your choice. These five offer all you need: privacy, security, streaming prowess, speed, and more.
Best VPN for Chrome: Top-Rated Extensions in 2026
8922 servers
118 covered countries
30 days money-back guarantee
10 simultaneous connections
9.4 /10
3000 servers
105 covered countries
30 days money-back guarantee
10 simultaneous connections
9.1 /10
27000 servers
91 covered countries
30 days money-back guarantee
Unlimited connections
9 /10
17500 servers
127 covered countries
30 days money-back guarantee
10 simultaneous connections
8.8 /10
4500 servers
100 covered countries
30 days money-back guarantee
Unlimited connections
8.7 /10
Best VPN Chrome Extension: Top 5 Picks Reviewed
The best Chrome VPN offers impressive extensions for the browser to shield your online traffic from unauthorized access. Moreover, these VPNs are feature-rich, great for access to restricted streaming content, and speedy connections. To be 100% clear, we only ranked premium VPN services on this list.
Why? There’s little chance you’ll get anything close to what they offer from a free VPN. With that in mind, let’s explore these five and see why they’re special.
1. NordVPN: The Best Chrome VPN Extension Overall
Pros
- Wide server network
- Blocks malicious sites
- WebRTC leak protection
- Strong encryption
- Good for streaming
- No-logging policy
Cons
- No free VPN for Chrome
- Higher costs for renewal
NordVPN is, for us, the best VPN for Chrome in 2026. As discussed in our review of NordVPN, the provider offers over 9,000 servers in 130 countries, with connection options on five continents. Thanks to its 10 Gbps servers and a custom NordLynx protocol, expect excellent performance for all activities.
During our testing, we noticed a slew of Chrome-specific features. There’s location spoofing that allows effortless unblocking. However, you can also use timezone spoofing for browsing sites sensitive to timezone changes. NordVPN for Chrome also includes split tunneling, rarely seen in browser extensions.
For more privacy, you can enable Threat Protection, which blocks malicious sites, trackers, and ads. Streaming-wise, NordVPN is the best VPN for Netflix, which also works on other popular streamers, like HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, and Pluto TV. Everything you do is protected by its strong HTTPS, in-browser encryption.
As the best Chrome VPN, NordVPN is fully customizable, with a kill switch and WebRTC Leak Protection for more privacy. On that note, it keeps no logs and even has a few audits from third-party cybersecurity companies. To use it, you have to subscribe to NordVPN, but you’ll also get access to other NordVPN apps.
A 30-day money-back guarantee when you buy a NordVPN plan lets you test the VPN for Chrome risk-free. We recommend the Basic plan at 70% off for a price of around $3 monthly to enjoy the best savings on our #1 pick.
2. ExpressVPN: The Best VPN for Chrome for Speed
Pros
- Many third-party audits
- One of the fastest VPNs
- Included password manager
- Easy-to-use Chrome VPN
- Servers in 105 countries
Cons
- No free version
- No Multi-hop servers
ExpressVPN is another excellent VPN for Chrome with over 3,000 servers in 105 countries. It’s best for speed and performance, but doesn’t lack security and privacy. Its Chrome VPN has location spoofing, offering good unblocking prowess. WebRTC blocking also adds to that, but it also conceals your whereabouts.
Threat Manager is also available, and it blocks trackers, ads, and malicious websites. On top of that, ExpressVPN has an Auto-Connect function, which immediately connects to a VPN when you launch Chrome. We tested the ExpressVPN Chrome extension and unblocked websites, including popular streaming platforms.
During that time, we enjoyed ExpressVPN’s privacy, stemming from its security features and a no-logging policy (audited over 20 times). ExpressVPN Keys, a password manager, is also included for free for convenience. Speaking of convenience, this Chrome VPN extension is among the simplest to set up and use.
Plus, your extension also controls your desktop app, so you have an all-in-one VPN. Like the other picks, it works on all popular systems, offering auser-friendly experience. You can also protect up to 14 devices at a time. Finally, you’ll get a discount on biennial plans with 4 free months and a 30-day refund policy.
3. Private Internet Access: Best for Advanced Security Features
Pros
- Unlimited devices
- MACE ad blocker
- Multi-hop servers
- Very affordable
- No-logging policy
Cons
- Not the fastest VPN
- No Fire TV Stick app
PIA’s pocket-friendly pricing makes it an attractive VPN for Chrome. For one, you get over 30,000 servers in 91 countries, all accessible from Chrome. While PIA may not be the best for streaming (compared to NordVPN and ExpressVPN), it still works for changing your Netflix region and accessing more content.
Private Internet Access is all about advanced security. WebRTC leak protection, a kill switch, and its MACE ad blocker do an impressive job. Moreover, Private Internet Access operates on a no-logging policy, which has been proven in court multiple times. The VPN’s easy-to-use Chrome extension offers one-click connections.
We also used the VPN to prevent websites from accessing our webcam and microphone. When we tested Private Internet Access for leaks, we discovered none. But the same goes for its desktop and mobile apps, which offer more features (Multi-hop, for example). When you get Private Internet Access, all apps are available.
It’s the best multi-device VPN that protects unlimited devices for no added cost. Finally, the price. It’s pretty affordable, with a biennial plan that starts at $2.03 to $2.19 per month, with two or four free months. Private Internet Access for Chrome is one of the best picks due to a 30-day money-back guarantee for effortless testing.
4. Proton VPN: The Best VPN Chrome Extension for Privacy
Pros
- Free version is available
- Massive server network
- Robust privacy
- Double hop (Secure Core)
Cons
- No SmartDNS
- Subpar customer support
Proton VPN takes the fourth spot as another Chrome VPN extension built for privacy, speed, and security. With over 17,500 servers in 125+ countries, it’s also one of the biggest VPNs. In our Proton VPN review, we were satisfied with its speed and performance, but that translates to its browser VPN, which performs just as well.
The premium version offers all the essentials, from WebRTC leak protection and a kill switch and split tunneling to one-click connections, a no-log policy, and effortless streaming. We tested Proton VPN on Netflix with success. Simultaneously, the VPN allowed us to protect our privacy further with Secure Core servers.
Many wonder if they can use this Chrome VPN extension without login. In a way, they can, as Proton VPN also includes a free version with limited servers and features, but with unlimited data. While you still have to make an account, you don’t need to subscribe. Proton VPN is the best VPN for Chrome for privacy enthusiasts.
It has open-source apps, an audited no-log policy, and is from Switzerland, one of the most impressive jurisdictions for privacy. You can use Proton VPN as a full-fledged app, as well, and protect ten devices at a time. If you’re interested, click below and get Proton VPN’s large discount to save over 70% on biennial plans.
5. Surfshark: Best for Unlimited Simultaneous Connections
Pros
- Unlimited devices
- Antivirus protection
- 256-bit encryption
- The best VPN for Netflix
Cons
- No free version
- Occasional slow speeds
Surfshark is an excellent budget VPN for safeguarding your online presence. It offers servers in 100 countries, and with 4,500 on the list, expect stable and reliable speeds. In our tests, Surfshark performed admirably on streaming services, unblocking over 30 Netflix catalogs and allowing buffer-free streaming.
Surfshark has some of the best advanced features, like WebRTC leak protection, CleanWeb (ad blocker), 256-bit encryption, antivirus protection, and more, if you get its Surfshark One plan. If you enable safety warnings, it notifies you about incidents or breaches that the pages you visit may have had. Plus, it also hides your IP address.
The VPN has been audited many times for its no-logging policy and impenetrable security infrastructure. It’s effective at preventing data leaks in its VPN for Chrome, desktop, and mobile platforms. Speaking of them, Surfshark protects unlimited devices, same as PIA, so it’s another worthy VPN for multiple devices.
Surfshark combines top-notch security features with good value for money. It’s among the best VPN extensions in 2026 for $1.99 per month; consequently, it’s the best cheap option. Interested? Read our Surfshark review for more information, or get it immediately and enjoy a 30-day money-back guarantee for all plans.
Best VPN Extension for Chrome: Selection Methodology
A quick search on the Chrome Web Store will bring up dozens of VPN extensions. Are the providers behind themon the same level? No, and that means choosing the right VPN for Chrome isn’t easy. So, we evaluated the available options to streamline your choice based on our criteria. Here are the factors we considered:
- Security and privacy: The primary motives for using a VPN. You want a provider with secure channels that offers top-notch features and a no-logs policy.
- VPN Extension: While the main app covers your browsing activities on Chrome, we prioritized providers with lightweight extensions for the web browser with WebRTC leak protection, spoofing, and other advanced features.
- Speed: We only considered VPNs without steep performance drops. That way, you can browse, stream, download, and play games with no lag and buffering.
- Server Network: Each provider listed has expansive networks with thousands of servers in scores of countries, so you have many connection options to avoid congestion and bypass geo-restrictions.
- Money-Back Guarantee: A refund policy protects your financial commitment from subpar service. If you’re not impressed, you can get your money back.
- User-Friendliness: They are easy to install and use. If you run into any issues, each Chrome VPN has responsive customer support around the clock.
- Pricing: All Chrome VPNs discussed today are fairly affordable. You can start at $1.99 per month for the cheapest one, with an average price of $3 per month. Perfect if you’re on a tight budget.
What is a Chrome VPN Extension? Is it Better than a VPN App?
Chrome VPN add-ons vs VPN clients: What is truly better? Some VPNs market their browser extensions as miniature VPNs. In reality, they’re mostly proxy extensions in disguise. That means you’re connecting to a proxy server and will not get the robust security benefits of a full-fledged VPN. However, it’s not always the case.
The best VPN for Chrome, specifically the five we listed, are nearly fully-capable VPNs with encryption and all the other security features. Some, like ExpressVPN, encrypt all data, not only your in-browser activities. So, why use a Chrome VPN extension? Because it actually complements your desktop VPN app.
For instance, it includes advanced features like spoofing (helpful for bypassing geo-blocks) and WebRTC leak protection to prevent data exposure. When you use only a VPN app, you don’t get these features. Plus, the best Chrome VPN add-ons include ad-blocking to help you navigate annoying pop-ups and malware.
You don’t necessarily need a VPN for Chrome or any other browser; however, the experience is better if you enable it. Additional encryption, security features, and unblocking prowess are never going to hurt. Besides, when you subscribe to a VPN, you get access to VPN apps and extensions, so why not use both?
Conclusion
A reliable Chrome extension VPN handles your security, privacy, and performance needs. It offers one-click connections for unblocking content, while keeping all your data safe and secure. This comprehensive list consisted of five best picks, and NordVPN stood out as the most reliable option for Chromium browsers.
Our other picks, like ExpressVPN, Private Internet Access, Proton VPN, and Surfshark, are far from unimpressive. Their capable Chrome VPN add-ons offer plenty of features, super-fast servers, and apps for all major platforms and devices. So, all the most elite choices are on the table. We leave the final choice to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Chrome VPN extensions safe?
Yes, Chrome extensions are generally safe because Google reviews each web app submission before making it available. Unfortunately, that process isn’t foolproof. However, the VPNs on this list offer Chrome extensions that safeguard your online presence, are not malware, and don’t log your online sessions.
What is the best VPN for Chrome?
According to our tests, NordVPN is the best Chrome VPN. It offers a lightweight extension that encrypts your data and has fast connection speeds. The VPN’s apps are feature-rich and reliable, and provide full protection for your online traffic.
Can I download torrents with the best VPN for Chrome?
No. A Chrome VPN extension isn’t made for P2P because it protects your in-browser traffic only. However, as these extensions also have dedicated apps, they can be used for safe and secure P2P instead. Even then, NordVPN remains #1 with its P2P servers. If you need more options, explore our ranking of the top P2P VPNs in 2026.
Should I use NordVPN for Chrome?
Yes, you should, as it’s the best option in 2026. However, keep in mind that you must get a subscription before you can use it. This isn’t nothing new, as all premium Chrome VPN apps work the same.