Your online security should be the top priority in today’s digital age. One way to protect all your browsing activities without opening another app is to use a VPN’s Chrome extension.
Many VPNs offer Chrome extensions that you can use on your browser without stress. However, from so many options available, it may be challenging to pick one that perfectly suits your needs. Don’t worry, though. This article highlights the five best Chrome VPN extensions and explains what makes them stand out.
Best VPN Extensions for Chrome: Quick List
- NordVPN: A popular VPN service that offers a convenient way to browse safely and anonymously.
- ExpressVPN: Offers the optimum online security with its strong no-logs policy.
- ExtremeVPN: A high-rated, budget-friendly VPN for Chrome that promises fast speed, unmatched privacy, and robust security with a simple click.
- Surfshark: Best known for its privacy features and unlimited simultaneous connections.
- CyberGhost: One free Chrome VPN extension you can trust when you go online.
What is the Difference Between a VPN App and a Chrome VPN Extension?
The significant difference between a Chrome VPN extension and a VPN app is that the former only works on the browser, specifically Google Chrome, while the latter protects every app available on the device. The Chrome extension is popular because it protects your online visits without needing an external app.
Once the extension is enabled on your browser, your IP address automatically remains hidden, letting you browse the web anonymously. However, note that the VPN for Google Chrome only protects your activities on the browser, not your device.
On the other hand, a VPN app should be your go-to option if you want to protect your entire system from external threats. It ensures that every data that passes through your device remains protected.
Why Should I Use a VPN Extension on my Chrome Browser?
While we recommend you download the VPN app on your device to ensure its overall security, a Chrome VPN extension is better than not using a VPN. Besides, it may be a better option for certain online activities you perform on your browser.
An extension can be helpful if you want to browse the web casually or stream a video. As you won’t download the VPN app, it helps you manage your storage space due to its lightweight nature. However, you should know that the Chrome VPN only protects the traffic through your browser.
If you want to protect the other apps on your device, getting a VPN app is a much better option. Some Chrome extensions offer limited server locations or won’t let you choose your preferred location. It’s best to opt for a trusted VPN service that offers an app and a Chrome Extension, like NordVPN or ExpressVPN.
With these services, you can connect to a server location through the app and then to a different location on the Chrome extension.
Top VPN Extensions to Use on Chrome: Detailed List
After our evaluation, we handpicked five VPNs that stood out based on their performance and security features. Of these five, NordVPN remains the best overall VPN extension. Read on to learn why and get an overview of other VPN providers.
1. NordVPN
NordVPN is a well-known service that offers ultra-fast speeds and an extensive server network. It boasts millions of users globally and has a user-friendly Chrome extension that always protects your internet space.
Usability
The NordVPN extension offers a simple installation process that can be completed with a single click. After the installation, you will need to log into your NordVPN account.
Once you log in, you can use its Quick Connect feature or choose a specific server location from the list of countries provided. This VPN service offers a seamless process that doesn’t interfere with your browsing activity.
However, it offers limited features compared to its app version. For instance, you can not access specialty servers like Obfuscated and Double VPNs. Also, if you live in a country with online restrictions, like Russia or China, you may be unable to use the extension.
Performance and Speed
NordVPN’s extension offers excellent network speed, ensuring you don’t experience lags while browsing. It retains at least 96% of your original upload speed and 97% of the download speed. The extension also records a low ping rate of 43ms, indicating that you can use it to perform various online activities, including streaming, video calls, or gaming.
Server Location and Network
NordVPN has an extensive server network that covers 6000+ servers in 111 countries. That means that no matter your location, you will surely find a server nearby to connect to, except if you are staying in Antarctica.
This VPN provider uses RAM-only servers, which implies that your browsing data won’t be stored for long. If you connect to the VPN using the app, you can gain access to specialty servers like P2P servers, Onion Over VPN, Obfuscated servers, and Double VPN.
Security and Privacy
NordVPN uses AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption to protect its users’ traffic. With its strict no-logging policy, you can rest assured that your online activities won’t be stored or monitored.
It also provides an Internet kill switch that cuts off your internet access if your VPN connection drops. That way, you don’t have to worry about online threats even when experiencing a network disruption.
Device Compatibility
The NordVPN Chrome extension can be used on many devices. It is compatible with Android, Windows, Linux, iOS, and macOS operating systems. You can even connect to the VPN on your Android TV, Firestick, router, Raspberry Pi, and tvOS.
Apart from Chrome, it provides VPN extensions for other browsers, such as Edge, Chromium, and Firefox. So, if you are uncomfortable browsing on Chrome, you can still secure your data regardless of your browser.
User Reviews and Ratings
Many VPN users gave positive feedback, expressing their satisfaction with the service. Its solid rating of 4.2 out of 5 from over 7,000 reviews proves its effectiveness. One user highlighted, “Very useful for overseas travel, and the added security is a nice addition… Works great on computers, phones, and Apple TV or Fire Stick.”
Another reviewer said, “It works great on all my devices. Also, I noticed no slowdown when accessing sites, including videos.”
However, despite the many positive reviews, a few users still cited issues, such as the split tunneling feature on the extension needing to be fixed or the connection drops sometimes. One user noted, “It logs out suddenly without any notification.” Another one said, “This doesn’t work with my Chromebook, and I am locked into the payment. It is NOT worth messing with.”
Despite these minor negative reviews, NordVPN still receives high praise for its user-friendly nature and speed.
2. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is a high-quality VPN service with a large user base of millions of individuals. This extension can enhance your digital life, ensuring you can browse freely without worrying about your security or privacy.
Usability
You won’t find it challenging to install this Chrome extension, as it offers a simple setup process. One positive side is that you won’t have to log in again, as the extension will sync automatically with your account on the desktop app.
The extension includes leak protection and location spoofing, which is handy if you frequently change your location when browsing.
Performance and Speed
ExpressVPN Chrome extension has consistent speed, maintaining at least 91% of your network’s upload speed and 90% of the download speed. With its 42 ms ping, the extension is suitable for browsing.
Server Location and Network
ExpressVPN boasts over 3000 servers in 105 countries worldwide, including the U.S., U.K., Argentina, Brazil, etc.
Compared to its competitors, it has fewer servers in the Middle East. On the plus side, all servers on the ExpressVPN network are RAM-only, meaning that you won’t have to worry about your sensitive data stored with ExpressVPN.
Security and Privacy
With a strong goal of protecting its users’ online activities, ExpressVPN employs advanced security and privacy features to ensure your internet time is free from unsolicited surveillance. This VPN service uses AES-256, Poly1305, and ChaCha20 encryption to guarantee data security.
In addition, it has a strict no-logging policy, so you won’t have to worry about your activities being monitored by a third party. There have been cases where law authorities seized a few of ExpressVPN’s servers during an investigation, but they could not find any stored data. This shows the VPN provider’s commitment to safeguarding their users’ privacy.
Device Compatibility
The VPN supports many devices and operating systems, including PCs, smartphones, Smart TVs, gaming consoles, and Chromecast. Its straightforward installation process is quick across all platforms.
User Reviews and Ratings
The ExpressVPN Chrome extension rates well on the Chrome Web Store, rating 4.5 out of 5. Most of its reviews were positive, with one user saying, “Simple to use on every device, and highly recommended.” Users say the VPN extension offers a stable and fast connection, although some are unsatisfied with the interface.
Some users even complain that it doesn’t work with some streaming services. One reviewer commented, “It doesn’t work with Star+ and Disney+. Its price is relatively high, and no free trial is available. If you are not working on a low budget, ExpressVPN can be an excellent option.
3. ExtremeVPN
ExtremeVPN is a high-quality VPN service that goes to extreme lengths to ensure users enjoy impeccable privacy when browsing online. With this Chrome VPN extension, you won’t have to sacrifice speed for privacy, or vice versa, with superfast and secure VPN protocols.
Usability
ExtremeVPN browser extension offers a straightforward installation process. All you have to do is visit the Chrome store and download the extension, which takes seconds. Once you finish installing, you will have to log into your account, and you can connect to any server location of your choice.
To ensure your convenience, it offers a Bypass Proxy feature that allows you to specify which sites you want to pass through the VPN traffic. Plus, the VPN offers multiple language options, including Spanish, German, French, and Portuguese, so you don’t have to worry if you are not a fluent English speaker.
Performance and Speed
ExtremeVPN Chrome Extension provides its users with lightning-fast speeds. You won’t face lags when performing high-bandwidth activities like gaming or streaming. The VPN extension maintains at least 97% of your network’s original download speed and 96% of the upload speed.
The extension also records a low ping rate, so you can rest assured that a poor network connection will not interrupt your online activities. It also offers unlimited bandwidth, allowing you to browse as much as you want without experiencing any data caps.
Server Location and Network
ExtremeVPN offers 6,500+ servers in over 78 countries around the globe, including the USA, Nigeria, Australia, and the U.K. Once you connect to the server of your choice, you can change your IP address to any location of your choice. With the VPN’s stealth servers, you can bypass any geo-restriction and visit any site you choose.
ExtremeVPN’s VPN extension is especially valuable to remote workers working from a specific time zone. By connecting to a server in your employer’s location, you can be present at the same time your employer or customer is and quickly meet deadlines.
Security and Privacy
ExtremeVPN’s extension employs the encryption standard various intelligence and government agencies use worldwide: AES-256 encryption. It protects its users from hackers and cyber threats and ensures private browsing.
Apart from its encryption, it also offers WebRTC Leak protection, which ensures your IP address isn’t leaked to a third party when browsing a site. Plus, Kill Switch cuts your internet traffic whenever your VPN disconnects. So, even using public WiFi, you can still protect your financial and personal details from online snoopers.
Furthermore, the browser extension maintains a strict no-log policy that ensures that its servers will clear all information about you once you stop browsing. No one, not even government agencies, can access your information.
Device Compatibility
As all your devices require protection, you can use the ExtremeVPN Chrome extension on any of them, including your PCs, smartphones, Chromebooks, and tablets. It works across almost all the major operating systems, including Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, and Linux.
Even if you face a challenge setting up the extension on your device, ExtremeVPN has a reliable 24/7 customer support team to assist you. It also provides guides to help you through difficult setups or installations.
User Reviews and Ratings
Many users have positive reviews about the ExtremeVPN extension, especially its commitment to ensuring users enjoy security and high performance. One user said, “I love that ExtremeVPN is consistently updated to improve performance and security. It shows the developers care about their users.”
Another one highlighted, “Switching between different server locations is a breeze.” These reviews show the confidence users have in ExtremeVPN’s robust protection. We were impressed that the service maintains an overall positive rating, with few constructive criticisms. With a 4.8 out of 5 star rating, the ExtremeVPN Chrome VPN is a reliable and effective security solution.
4. Surfshark
Surfshark is a fantastic Chrome VPN extension that offers a wide range of security features to keep you safe. Its functionality is similar to its desktop version, making it a compelling choice if you are looking for a reliable extension.
Usability
The Surfshark Chrome extension is simple to set up and packed with many security features. With its starter plan, you will gain access to its standard features, including server selection, website safety alerts, leak protection, CleanWeb, and a Bypass feature.
Apart from its robust features, the extension remains user-friendly and boasts a well-organized interface that ensures everything you need is at your fingertip. It is similar to its VPN app, but only a few missing features, like the extra VPN protocols and specialty servers.
Performance and Speed
Surfshark’s Chrome extension showed strong performance, maintaining up to 92% of your original upload speed and 93% of the download speed. While it has a slightly high ping of 62ms, it can still offer a smooth experience.
Server Location and Network
It has over 3,200 servers in 100 countries worldwide, including multiple servers in large cities like the United States. While its server network is smaller than other VPN providers mentioned in this list, it still has enough to connect to a server close to your location.
Its extension offers a static IP feature that allows many users to share the IP. However, some users complain that they can’t use dedicated IP on the extension.
Security and Privacy
Surfshark’s primary location is in the Netherlands, where it is a member of the Nine-Eyes alliance. This alliance’s members can spy on their citizens and share data, which has raised privacy concerns.
However, Surfshark claims to have a strict no-logging policy, and Deloitte audited the company to verify its privacy claims. It offers RAM-only servers, AES-256 encryption, and an alternative ID that ensures your data remains hidden. The extension also has an alert feature that notifies you of any malicious website and an antivirus that protects you from phishing or malware threats.
You can set up the WebRTC leak protection, autocorrect, and Geo-spoofing features from its settings page.
Device Compatibility
Surfshark is compatible with various devices, such as Windows, Chromebook, Android, iOS, Linux, macOS, FireTV, Smart TV, and Apple TV. It also works well on browsers other than Chrome, such as Edge and Firefox. With its unlimited simultaneous connections, you can connect to your account on as many devices and browsers as you like.
User Reviews and Ratings
Surfshark boasts many positive reviews from the Chrome Web store. It is another great choice with a 3.6 out of 5-star rating. Users talk about its user-friendly interface and customizable quick connect button, which lets you connect to a server in a particular country or to the fastest available server. As one individual said, “It was Easy to use. It helped me solve my problem.”
However, the extension’s wide range of features may be confusing, especially if you are a newbie looking for a VPN’s primary function. Fortunately, many users pointed out that customer support is beneficial and available 24/7. One of these reviews says, “Good app & great customer service, too! I get to enjoy my favorite TV shows from around the world.”
Yet, a few users complained about slow connection speeds when using the VPN extension. One user also expressed the problem of failing to access other regions’ libraries of different services, saying, “Unstable and slow. Watching Netflix and other video services from other regions is impossible, as promised.”
Despite this slight issue, Surshark is a reliable option if you are looking for a convenient Chrome VPN extension.
5. CyberGhost
CyberGhost is a great choice if you are looking for a budget-friendly Chrome extension. It offers a free extension with thousands of users worldwide.
Usability
You can use this browser extension from any location worldwide, including countries with internet restrictions. Once you’ve installed the extension on your Chrome browser, you have to click on the power button, and you will automatically connect to a server location in seconds.
As a free Chrome extension, it offers limited features. Its servers are shared by many users, meaning you may not experience high performance when using it. Download the app to enjoy more advanced features and subscribe to its premium version.
Performance and Speed
Despite some limitations, it still provides solid speed performance. It retains at least 80% of your device’s initial download speed and 98% of the upload speed. However, it recorded a ping rate of 171ms, which means you may not enjoy using the extension for heavy browsing activities like gaming or streaming.
Server Location and Network
This free browser extension offers limited server access in just four countries: Germany, the U.S., the Netherlands, and Romania. In each of these countries, you only have the option of two servers, meaning that you only have eight server options to connect to.
If you want access to more servers with this VPN service, you must get their app, which offers 9,000+ servers in up to 100 countries. The servers in its app are optimized for various tasks such as torrenting, streaming, and gaming.
Security and Privacy
Like most top-rated VPNs, CyberGhost uses the industry standard AES-256 encryption to safeguard your data and maintains a strict no-logs policy. So, with this free VPN, you can confidently enjoy a secure environment for your online activities.
In addition to its encryption, it is based in a privacy-friendly country, Romania, so you won’t have to worry about your data getting into the wrong hands. It also uses RAM-only servers, meaning the service can’t store your browsing data.
Device Compatibility
The service is compatible with all the major operating systems, such as Linux, Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS. Apart from Chrome, you can use its browser extension on platforms like Firefox, Brave, Opera, and Edge.
User Reviews and Ratings
CyberGhost Chrome extension got a 3.5-star rating out of 5 on the Chrome Web Store. Users say it has a clean and user-friendly interface that prevents them from being stressed before connecting to the VPN. Their customer support proved responsive, as users vouched for their agents’ fast response to their queries.
The extension also received positive reviews for its ability to bypass geo-blocking. One user said, “It’s amazing and works so well. I can use Discord in school now.”
However, several users seem confused, as they paid for the app’s premium version and can’t enjoy their premium perks on the browser. This is because the extension is accessible regardless of whether you are a premium VPN user. For instance, a user wrote, “I paid for the subscription, but I can’t access other than 4 locations on the Chrome extension. This makes me feel like there’s no point in paying them the subscription.”
Furthermore, some users experienced connection issues, including difficulties accessing sites or connecting to servers. All these reasons contribute to the extension’s low rating on the Web Store. It’s still not a bad deal since you don’t need to pay.
Top VPN Extensions for Chrome: Comparison Table
| VPN provider | Chrome VPN extension features | App compatibility | Unblocking | Customer support | Simultaenous connection | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | Kill switch, multiple server locations, threat protection lite, WebRTC and IP leak protection, location spoofing, split tunnelling, warnings | Android, iOS, Linux, Max, Windows | Yes | Email, Support Ticket | 10 | From $12.99 per month |
| ExpressVPN | IP leak protection, multiple server locations, location spoofing, WebRTC blocking | Android, iOS, Linux, Max, Windows | Yes | 24/7 live chat support | 8 | From $12.95 per month |
| ExtremeVPN | Multiple server locations, WebRTC/IP leak protection, AES-256 encryption, ByPass Proxy feature, Kill switch | Android, iOS, Mac, Windows | Yes | 24/7 human support, live chat, email | 10 | From $10.59 per month |
| Surfshark | IP leak protection, multiple server locations, site safety warnings, CleanWeb | Android, iOS, Linux, Max, Windows | Yes | 24/7 customer support, live chat, email | Unlimited | From $15.45 per month |
| CyberGhost | IP leak protection, 4 server locations, ad and tracker blocker, malicious sites blocker | Android, iOS, Linux, Max, Windows | Yes | 7 | Free |
How We Tested and Chose the Best Chrome VPN Extensions
With countless VPN providers available, finding the perfect Chrome extension can be overwhelming. To simplify your search, we tested various services to help us determine which one works flawlessly with Chrome.
Here is a closer look at the factors we considered to ensure these VPN extensions were the best:
- Usability and recurring issues: We checked how each of these VPNs connects with Chrome, emphasizing their functionality. This included reviewing the features available and checking users’ feedback from Social media platforms and the Chrome Web Store. By doing this, we discovered the common issues users reported, the extension’s ease of use, and the quality of their customer support.
- Server locations and network size: This involved accessing the number of server locations each VPN provider offers and their coverage globally. A VPN with an extensive server network ensures you can find a nearby server to connect to, regardless of where you stay. It also means you won’t have to worry about the speed slowing down due to congestion.
- Speed and delay: This is important as nobody wants their browsing to be delayed or streams to lag due to slow speeds. We conducted speed tests for each VPN provider, assessing how their connection speed fluctuated using Chrome. We used SPEEDTEST for the evaluations and ensured each has a network speed of 497 Mbps download and 496 Mbps upload.
- Privacy policies and security features: Another essential criterion we used was the security protocols each of these VPNs implemented. This allows you to ensure that no one can compromise your data. We checked the policies of each of these VPN providers regarding data logging, encryption standards, and security features such as leak protection and kill switches.
- Platform compatibility: We also reviewed how these extensions work with different devices and operating systems, including the simplicity of their setup process. We also confirmed they have specialized features like router configurations and Smart DNS.
- Price: We understand that budget is essential when choosing a VPN extension, as some services are pricier than others. Our analysis allowed us to pick VPN services with different price points, ranging from free to pricy ones, ensuring that you find reliable options that suit your budget.
How to Add a VPN Extension to Chrome
If this is your first time, you don’t have to worry; adding a VPN extension to your Chrome browser is easy. Follow this detailed guide below to start the process:
- Choose a VPN provider. You can pick from the well-curated list of quality VPNs we provide.
- Create your account and subscribe to a plan. You now have a premium account with your chosen VPN provider.
- Next, head over to the Google Chrome Web Store on the device you will use the browser extension.
- On the Search extension and themes search bar, enter the name of the VPN you want. For example, NordVPN.
- You will see a page that includes your chosen VPN provider. Click on it and select Add to Chrome.
- Once the installation process is over, you must sign in to the extension using the credentials you used while setting up your VPN account (Step 2).
- After logging in, connect to any server location and enjoy a protected browsing experience on Google Chrome.
Is Using a VPN Extension on Chrome Safe?
Yes, Chrome VPN extensions are safe to use. However, this is only true if you opt for a reliable service that always provides you with the optimum privacy and security you need.
One thing to understand about any browser extension you download is that it is usually sandboxed. That means if you don’t allow the extension to interact with your online activities, it will sit quietly and not interfere with all the other processes running on your browser.
Google monitors the Chrome store and ensures that every app submission it receives is properly reviewed. This system limits malware that disguises itself as VPNs on the web store.
However, it isn’t foolproof. Some VPN providers are still not completely honest about their privacy policies. Because of this, it’s best not to explore sketchy Chrome VPN extensions, as they can endanger your digital life.
Is a Chrome VPN Extension Necessary? Can’t I Use Incognito Mode Instead?
While incognito mode can help boost online privacy, a VPN is your safest bet if you don’t want your sensitive data exposed. The main purpose of incognito mode is to reduce the amount of data stored when you browse the internet. That helps with your privacy, as your browsing history and data get deleted after your browsing session, which is helpful if you share your device with others.
However, at the Google Court settlement in April 2024, it was seen that the incognito mode isn’t as private as it seems.
A VPN encrypts your traffic, masks your online identity, and disguises your internet activity. This guarantees you the utmost privacy you need when roaming the internet. So, to answer your question, a Chrome VPN Extension is necessary if you want to enjoy a private moment with the internet.
FAQs
Yes. It is highly advised to connect to a Chrome VPN whenever you use the browser. This ensures that you surf the web anonymously and that your network connection stays encrypted.
No, Chrome does not have a VPN extension. While Google offered a service for users named Google One VPN, the service closed its operations in June 2024 due to low usage, and the parent company wanted to focus on other essential features.
NordVPN is the best Chrome VPN extension. It offers multiple servers at the website level, a kill switch, advanced encryption, and unlimited bandwidth.
As long as you are logged into your Google account, Google will be aware of every activity you perform online. If you don’t want Google to track you, you can try methods like browser fingerprinting, which will involve installing another extension on your browser.
With lightning-fast connection speed and lag-free browsing, NordVPN remains the fastest Chrome VPN extension.
