Are you interested in finding the best VPN for Mac? Thanks to the popularity of Mac computers and the macOS operating system, as well as Apple’s mobile devices, this task is not very challenging. Namely, most VPN providers have solutions tailored to the needs of Mac users.
It doesn’t matter if you use MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, iMac, Mac Mini, Mac Studio, or even Mac Pro – the list of good VPN solutions for these devices is pretty long.
The same goes for those using iPads and iPhones. Of course, when you need such a solution, you are probably interested in choosing the most secure and fastest one. This process requires paying attention to a few things we will describe in this guide.
In addition, we will provide a list of brands that have proven to be helpful and answers to a few questions. Let’s begin!
How to Use VPN on Mac
We can’t discuss the best VPNs for Mac and what to consider when choosing such VPNs without ensuring that our readers know how to use VPN on Mac. The answer to this question is the same regardless of the Mac device we are talking about. So, the simplest way to use VPN on Mac is to get the specially designed application provided by the VPN service. Users should download and follow the on-screen instructions to install the app.
They must also sign up and enter their details before using a VPN. Remember that they can do this through the VPN provider’s official website. Interestingly, the best options will let you launch the app whenever your Mac is turned on.
Choose the best VPN for Mac
Choosing the best VPN for Mac can be simple, but only when you know what you’re looking for. We know that every user has specific needs. Still, there are a few things that every user must consider before committing to one of these VPN solutions for Mac.
Important Features
The following is a list of the most important features you should take into account during this process.
- Speed: It’s impossible to expect the same speed as your regular speed when you use a VPN. Still, this doesn’t mean that you should settle for painfully slow speeds. The best solutions should promise drops that are not higher than 20% of your initial connection.
Generally, anything below 1 Mbps promised by the provider should be discarded. If you are into online gaming, you will need at least 10 Mbps, and remember that 4K streaming usually requires at least 25 Mbps. The best options will provide 100 Mbps for seamless streaming of UHD content on more than one device. Once again, you shouldn’t forget your original speed provided by your ISP.
- iPhone app compatibility: Mac computers run on macOS, while iPhones and iPads run on iOS. So, we’re talking about two different operating systems. Yet, these OS solutions are similar. People who own a Mac computer often also have an Apple mobile device (iPhone or iPad). So, when choosing VPN for your Mac, it would be best to select an option that offers an iPhone app.
- Multiple devices: Modern people own more than one device that enables them to access the Internet. So, if you pick a VPN service provider that lets you use a VPN on a single device, that shouldn’t be considered a good deal.
Most options we recommend support at least four devices simultaneously. So, you can use it on a MacBook Air and a Mac Mini simultaneously, for example. Or on a MacBook Pro, your smart TV, and gaming consoles, for instance. You should expect a smooth, hassle-free experience on multiple devices if you don’t share your account with other households. - Privacy and Security: Since this is one of the reasons why people use VPN for Mac, you should pay special attention to the privacy and security policies. The most popular options use various encryption protocols, including in-house solutions.
They also promise no-log policies that protect their user’s privacy and anonymity. Many of them have a kill-switch feature that protects your identity despite server problems. It would help if you also got firewall and anti-virus protection in many cases. - Support: Using a VPN on Mac or any other device or operating system is usually not a challenging activity. The best VPNs have friendly designs and intuitive apps that make them easy to use. However, there are situations in which some Mac users might need help from VPN providers.
With exemplary customer support, you should be able to resolve these issues instantly. So, another feature you should look for in these VPNs is professional customer support. It would be best to reach this support in more than one way – FAQ section, help center, live chat, phone, email, etc.
Their customer support agents should be responsive, providing users with answers and solutions in minutes (or hours, depending on the time of the day).
Top Five VPNs for Mac
1. NordVPN
It would be a mistake not to mention NordVPN when discussing the top VPNs for Mac. As one of the industry’s leaders, NordVPN promises a smooth experience to all Mac users whenever they need to hide/mask their original IP address, regardless of their reasons.
This solution has over 6,000 serves in more than 60 countries and delivers ultra-fast speeds suitable for 4K streaming. Interestingly, it has two apps for Mac users – an IKE version and an OpenVPN version. Both are good, and the difference is the security protocol they use. The only thing that macOS users will miss is the absence of a split tunneling option.
2. PureVPN
PureVPN comes with a lower number of servers compared to NordVPN, but it has servers in over 140 countries. You can connect on 5 devices (macOS or others) at once without any problems. PureVPN provides 24/7 customer support and works well with popular streaming services, including Netflix and Amazon Prime.
Mac users will benefit from the kill switch feature in the macOS application. We can’t say that PureVPN is the cheapest option on the market, but you can save a lot by committing to its annual plan. Also, look for seasonal discounts.
3. ExpressVPN
If you don’t mind paying more for a good VPN for Mac, then you should consider ExpressVPN. Logically, with price plans that go above average, this option provides one of the fastest speeds among Mac VPNs.
The British Virgin Islands-based VPN relies on OpenVPN regarding security and safety. It also offers AES-256 protocol for data encryption. In addition to the mobile app, there’s a user-friendly desktop application that can even be used by beginners in this field. We should also note that with ExpressVPN you can connect up to five devices at once and use a very efficient kill switch feature.
4. SurfShark
With over 3,200 RAM-based servers and unlimited simultaneous connections, SurfShark is among the best VPNs for Mac users. In addition, we like its strict no-logs policy and the 30-day money-back guarantee.
This is another option with a user-friendly interface that lets newcomers in the world of VPN reap its benefits without hassles. In addition, it’s worth noting that SurfShark’s prices are pretty reasonable.
5. ProtonVPN
ProtonVPN might be newer than the other VPNs on our list, but it has already proven that it deserves a spot. Mac users can enjoy multiple sophisticated privacy tools and incredible speeds. Those using ProtonVPN on macOS should expect the IKEv2 security protocol, but this can probably change in the future.
You should download it via ProtonVPN’s official website because it’s unavailable at the Apple App Store. As for the servers, you can expect over 500 servers in the United States, the Netherlands, and Japan.
Check out all our VPN reviews here!
Is There a Built-in VPN on Mac?
Every Mac owner should know that their device has no built-in VPN. You can indeed connect to a VPN server through the System Preference section. Still, you must be subscribed to a VPN service provider to take advantage of this service.
Regardless of the reason why you want to use such a service (increased security and/or privacy, bypassing geo-restricted content, etc.), there are many great VPNs for Mac. We have shared some of the best solutions in this guide.
Conclusion – Why do you need a VPN for Mac?
We already mentioned many reasons why people need a VPN for Mac. First, VPNs can help Mac users stay safe from hackers since they will transfer data to and from their devices through an encrypted tunnel. The same goes for anonymity. Namely, the internet service provider you use can’t check which websites you have visited when the VPN is active.
Furthermore, you can bypass geo-restricted content like checking movies and TV series on popular streaming platforms like Netflix in different locations.