As we march towards an era of constant progress, privacy has become a crucial aspect of our lives. Especially when browsing interests, you constantly fear data breaches and other security concerns. Moreover, safe internet surfing requires an efficient VPN today.
For instance, if you are using the Chrome browser, you might wonder what Chrome extensions you should use for a VPN. Nonetheless, as Chrome has too many extensions to choose from, many people often try to stick to the free options as they do not require any additional subscription for users.
In this blog, we will talk about the top 10 best Chrome extensions for VPN and help you choose the best one for you while highlighting both free and paid options.
What Is A VPN Chrome Extension?
A Chrome extension for VPN refers to the extensions that can offer the services of the VPN provider that you can get without installing the full application itself. Moreover, the services you can get from VPN Chrome extensions are:
- Encrypting your web browser from potential dangers.
- Hiding your IP address from third-party and harmful services.
- Blocking ads, WebRTC leaks, and trackers.
- Bypassing international blocks for users to access the blocked content.
Why Do You Need A Chrome Extension for VPN?
As we have stated earlier, security and anonymity have become major concerns in today’s digital landscape. Moreover, it is not unusual to hear many incidents of hacks, data breaches, and other security concerns, even for major servers like Facebook and other social media platforms. Furthermore, people also use VPN to stay anonymous for hide their real identity.
Now, if you are wondering why you should choose a Chrome extension, there are a lot of reasons that we can tell you. For instance, when you are using an extension, you do not need to install an additional VPN application on your device, which might take up more space. Furthermore, there is another scenario that raises questions for users—and that is whether they should choose a free or premium extension. Choosing the Best VPN for PC can also help guide your decision, as many top services offer both app and browser extension options tailored to different needs.
Moreover, if you have problems choosing between these selections, here are a few points that you should note:
- Connection Stability.
- Data Restrictions.
- Servers.
- Connection Amounts.
- Free Trial.
Although a few people are sceptical about choosing a free VPN for their reliability on security concerns, they can still offer better services than many of the premium VPNs.
Top 10 Best Chrome Extensions for VPN
Now that we have explained why you need it and what factors you should look for, choose a Chrome extension for VPN here is the top 10 list of best Chrome extensions you can get for VPN:
1. Proton VPN
If you are wondering about free choices, let us suggest the Proton VPN, which offers both premium and free usage for users. Moreover, it has its source of origin in Switzerland, and the VPN mainly prioritizes security for users. Furthermore, this VPN is not similar to others as it can provide unlimited data usage, stable bandwidth with its version.
Now, if we talk about the extension stability, the VPN has a very user-friendly interface, which makes it easier for beginners to navigate. Nonetheless, if you are using the free version, you can only have 5 countries you can stay connected to, alongside other restrictions. Also, the VPN is available on major operating systems like Linux, iOS, Android, and many more.
And if we talk about security, it has several features that fascinate users, such as auto-connection, WebRTC leak protection, strict no-logs, and many more. However, if you want to experience these features, you will have to create an account to enjoy these services.
ProtonVPN Pricing Details
Pros
- It has a free version for users.
- The VPN has a user-friendly interface.
- It has security protocols such as WebRTC leak protection and many more.
- Users can easily navigate the VPN.
Cons
- Free users can only access limited and small locations.
- Free users do get sufficient security functions.
Streaming Support: Yes
ProtonVPN Pricing Details
ProtonVPN has two premium pricing options:
- VPN plus: 4.49 per month.
- Proton Unlimited: 7.99 per month.
Link to Chrome Store: https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/jplgfhpmjnbigmhklmmbgecoobifkmpa?utm_source=item-share-cb
2. Hotspot Shield
After Proton VPN, we are going to put Hotspot Shield as our next best for a top Chrome extension for VPN. Moreover, the VPN extension is extremely popular among people for its compatibility with various platforms. Moreover, users can even use this VPN extension without requiring an account or registration.
Nonetheless, following our previous statement, as this VPN application does not require users to have an account to use the VPN, it helps users to maintain their discretion and privacy. Although you might face a few downsides with using this extension, such as annoying ads and per daily data cap.
Moreover, the Hotspot Shield VPN provides a free Chrome extension that provides more than 1.8k servers, which is an exceptional feature for a free VPN. Furthermore, it also guarantees that you do not fall into major traffic, which might interrupt your VPN experience.
And if we talk about security, there are no features that you can get, but you can additionally put certain websites that you want to browse securely, even though the VPN extension is running in the background of your Chrome browser.
Pros And Cons of Hotspot Shield VPN
Pros
- You need an account or registration to use this VPN extension.
- It is completely free to use.
- You can get additional security features.
- It is extremely great for streaming.
Cons
- You can only access 1 location.
- Users have daily data restrictions.
- The VPN includes ads.
Streaming Support: Yes
Hotspot Shield Pricing Details
- Premium subscription: 7.99 per month.
Link to Chrome Store: https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/nlbejmccbhkncgokjcmghpfloaajcffj?utm_source=item-share-cb
3. Hide.me
There are a lot of good Chrome extensions that you can find for VPN in both premium and free versions. However, we also have another example to suggest, which is the Hide.me extension for Chrome. Nonetheless, if you are wondering, the VPN extension is mainly famous for its security and compatibility features among users.
Furthermore, if you use the Hide., You may experience the advanced interface, which most VPN extensions might offer, but the interface is not complex and very easy to navigate, so even a beginner would understand. Moreover, the free package of Hide.me extension provides 8 total server locations which include the U.S, Netherlands, and Switzerland.
And if we focus on the security part, the VPN extension uses the SSTP, which is not as strong and efficient as the HTTPS encryption, but users can still work with it. And the platform compatibility is also praiseworthy, as it can handle all major servers without any issues.
Pros and Cons of Hide.me
Pros
- The VPN extension is free to use.
- You can easily install the extension.
- There is no logging policy.
Cons
- The VPN works on SSTP encryption.
- You get an outdated interface.
- Users might face minor buffering issues.
Streaming Support: Yes
Hide.me Pricing Options
- Premium Subscription: 2.69 dollars per month with unlimited data traffic, 91 locations, 2600 servers, and many more.
Link to Chrome Store: https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/ohjocgmpmlfahafbipehkhbaacoemojp?utm_source=item-share-cb
4. TunnelBear
Another top-tier instance for a Chrome extension VPN is TunnelBear, which is extremely popular among VPN users. Furthermore, the extension has earned its popularity because of its major highlights on compatibility and a broad server network size that users get even in the free option.
Moreover, TunnelBear is available on the Chrome store and has a comparatively convenient but rather restricted interface that lacks many features for users. Nonetheless, because of a simple and user-friendly interface, several users, especially the newbies, find it easy to navigate while using the extension.
However, one of its highlighting features dictates its broad server network volume, which far exceeds most of the other VPN extensions in the free range. For instance, if you use this VPN extension, you can experience servers like South Africa, Taiwan, and Australia, but you get a 2 GB per month data restriction.
Now, if we highlight the security part, you get the no-logs policy, AES 256 encryption, and many more. Moreover, this extension uses pretty basic standard security protocols. And when we feature the compatibility, you can access all operating systems without much hurdle.
Pros And Cons of TunnelBear
Pros
- It has a free version for users.
- You can experience a robust server location fleet.
- Users can easily install the extension.
Cons
- The extension has undisclosed encryption security protocols.
- People experience an outdated interface.
- The extension does not efficiently allow streaming services.
Streaming Support: Yes, but limited.
TunnelBear Pricing Details
- Premium Subscription: 4.99 a month.
Link to Chrome Store: https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/omdakjcmkglenbhjadbccaookpfjihpa?utm_source=item-share-cb
5. ExpressVPN
Another major mention of a top Chrome VPN extension is ExpressVPN, which is extremely good for those who want a simple and user-friendly interface. Moreover, this extension can cover several aspects of a good extension, such as reliability, speed, and security. Also, it is a good option for day-to-day usage.
Furthermore, if you use the essVPN, you do not need to worry about security as this VPN extension has several security features, such as:
- WebRTC blocking: This feature restricts sites from detecting your authentic location and IP address.
- HTTPs Protocol: The extension naturally connects to the most secure HTTPS sites.
- Location spoofing: It can prevent the HTML5 geolocation from highlighting your location.
If we talk about compatibility and speed, ExpressVPN can undoubtedly perform well on several operating systems, such as Windows and macOS, without compromising speed efficiency.
Pros And Cons
Pros
- It supports over 2000 servers in 105 regions.
- You can use torrents with this extension.
- The extension can do split tunneling.
- ExpressVPN supports outside Nine Eyes, Five Eyes, and 14 Eyes territories.
Cons
- If you use it on a phone, you won’t get any customer support.
- The premium can be a bit costly.
- You can only connect to 5 devices at a time.
- It performs slowly on Macs.
Streaming Support: Yes.
ExpressVPN Pricing Options
- Premium Subscription: 12.95 per month.
Link to Chrome Store: https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/fgddmllnllkalaagkghckoinaemmogpe?utm_source=item-share-cb
6. Private Internet Access
Among all the other VPN extensions that you can find for Chrome, Private Internet Access is another important and optimal choice that you can find for surfing the internet. And in case you are wondering, this extension is famous for its cost-friendly packages, so the majority of users can afford to use its services.
Moreover, if you choose to use this extension, the user interface is very similar to its app, and the extension mainly focuses on protecting your digital privacy while you are surfing the web. Nonetheless, as we have explained, the extension is very friendly to use, so you can navigate through it easily and without much complexity.
Also, if you are wondering about security, let us tell you that the extension uses sturdy encryption to protect your internet presence, alongside the majority of its features are open-source. Now, when the speed is the topic, you effortlessly stream movies and play games without much buffering, and the platform compatibility is also great.
Pros And Cons of Private Internet Access
Pros
- You can use a lot of features.
- The extension provides open-source applications.
- The application supports port forwarding.
- It has a great unblocking efficiency.
Cons
- The extension provides less than average WireGuard speeds.
- This VPN extension has a lower rating in the Chrome Store.
Streaming Support: Yes.
Private Internet Access Pricing Details
- Premium Subscription: 2.03 per month.
- Premium Plus: 11.99 per month.
Link to Chrome Store: https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/jplnlifepflhkbkgonidnobkakhmpnmh?utm_source=item-share-cb
7. Windscribe
Every person has their demands and requirements when they are trying to find a suitable VPN extension for Chrome. Also, we can provide you with a fine example of a different extension that is favorable among users, and that extension is Windscribe. Also, this extension is famous among the VPN s because of its convenient usage, which doesn ot require much proficiency.
Moreover, if you do not want to bury yourself under numerous options of choices to navigate the extension, the Windscribe VPN is the perfect choice for you. Nonetheless, this VPN extension does not require you to install to use the services, which indicates you can use the VPN only with its extension. And the speed you get from using this extension is also marvellous, which is 910 Mbps.
And when the security is the topic, the extension offers standard procedures that include the malware-blocking feature, which restricts the appearance of third-party cookies, adult ads, and many more. Moreover, this extension also supports a wide range of systems, including Windows and Android.
Pros And Cons of Windscribe
Pros
- You get a monthly 10 GB data plan.
- The extension also provides unlimited connections.
- Users can find a lot of security tools.
- It includes many open-source applications.
- The extension can unblock several streaming sources.
Cons
- The extension does not have live chat assistance.
- If you buy the premium package, you do not get a lot of servers.
Streaming Support: Yes.
Windscribe Pricing Details
- Premium Subscription: 9 per month.
Link to Chrome Store: https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/hnmpcagpplmpfojmgmnngilcnanddlhb?utm_source=item-share-cb
8. NordVPN
A lot of people only go after renowned names and refrain from trying anything that is hardly popular among users. Nonetheless, NordVPN is a significant mention in our list as this VPN extension is extremely favorable among VPN users. Moreover, the extension gets its popularity from its several security tools.
Moreover, NordVPN is undoubtedly one of the fastest extensions that you can come across. And if we talk about the speed, the extension offers up to 950 Mbps speed alongside a WireGuard connection. Nonetheless, you will get a seamless speed experience that allows you can easily stream movies and play games online.
Moreover, the extension can also offer you a lot of security tools. For instance, you can refer to malware blocking and ad blocking. Nonetheless, the extension also supports all operating systems, such as Windows, Android, Mac, and Linux.
Pros And Cons of NordVPN
Pros
- You can find a lot of exceptional security features.
- Users can unblock numerous streaming platforms.
- You can also experience high-speed internet surfing.
- This extension offers 111 regional servers.
Cons
- The extension is just a proxy.
- If you have a smaller screen, it might feel overloaded.
Streaming Support: Yes.
NordVPN Pricing Options
- Basic Package: 2.99 per month.
- Plus Package: 3.89 per month.
- Complete Package: 4.89 per month.
Link to Chrome Store: https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/fjoaledfpmneenckfbpdfhkmimnjocfa?utm_source=item-share-cb
9. SurfShark
Coming up next in our list, we have the SurfShark VPN extension. Moreover, the extension is popular among other vpn chrome extensions because of an extra layer of security, which goes exceedingly far to protect your data from malicious websites and your digital identity.
Also, among all the other Chrome extensions you can find out there, SurfShark can provide you with a high-speed streaming experience. Descriptively, it can offer users up to 10 Gbps internet speed in most of its servers.
Moreover, if we talk about the security of this extension, then this VPN is probably the one you are looking for. Moreover, this VPN is one of those choices that have undergone a full audit verification from the Cure53 cybersecurity experts. Alongside this extension provides features like multihop, which allows you to secure your data in case any third-party source wants to look at it.
Pros And Cons of SurfShark
Pros
- You can use unlimited devices following its subscription package.
- It has a comparatively low cost compared to other services.
- You can access Netflix.
Cons
- Users get a static IP address.
- There are only 3.2 servers.
- There is mobile support for this extension.
- The kill switch feature is manual on Windows.
Streaming Support: Yes.
SurfShark Pricing Details
- Starter Package Yearly: 15.45 per month.
- One Package Yearly: 15.95 per month.
- One Plus Package Yearly: 17.95 per month.
- Starter Package Monthly: 2.49 per month.
- One Package Monthly: 4.09 per month.
- One Plus Monthly: 6.49 per month.
Link to Chrome Store: https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/ailoabdmgclmfmhdagmlohpjlbpffblp?utm_source=item-share-cb
10. CyberGhost VPN
At the end of our list, we are going to suggest the CyberGhost VPN extension, and something you should know is that the VPN is primarily constructed on the Ethereum blockchain. Moreover, this VPN extension is famous among people because of its subsection-less security features.
Although the VPN extension does not provide any server obfuscation but the extension is extremely efficient for streaming games and movies. Moreover, this extension can provide you with 100 regional servers without changing the location.
Also, if we talk about the security, the data-logging policy might seem a bit concerning, but overall, there is not much to worry about. Furthermore, this extension can block third-party access, fraud, and many more. Also, you can get a decent speed from this VPN extension.
Pros And Cons of CyberGhost
Pros
- It has low-cost subscriptions.
- Users can access Netflix.
- You can also do split tunneling.
Cons
- There is no mobile support.
- The kill switch option is manual on Windows.
Streaming Support: Yes.
CyberGhost Pricing Details
- The CyberGhost premium subscription costs between 2.19 dollars to 12.99 per month.
Link to Chrome Store: https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/ffbkglfijbcbgblgflchnbphjdllaogb?utm_source=item-share-cb
VPN Extension Vs Full VPN: What's The Difference?
If you are wondering about the difference between VPN extension and full VPN, here are some points for you to understand:
- Security: When it comes to security, extensions can only provide browser-level security, while full VPNs can provide full device protection.
- Installation: You can easily install an extension by only going to the extension store, while for full VPNs, you would manually need to install the VPN on your device with proper steps.
- Key Features: If you use the VPN extension, you can access fewer features than the full VPN application.
How to Install And Use A VPN Chrome Extension?
There are several steps you need to follow to install and use a VPN Chrome extension, such as:
- You need to go to the Chrome extension store.
- After going to the extension store, you need to select a VPN provider, for example, ProtonVPN.
- When you have searched for the extension, click on the installation button and fill in your VPN account credentials ( like email and password).
- After completing all these steps, you can connect to the VPN server and use its services.
Conclusion
As we have mentioned several efficient choices for Chrome VPN extensions, but there might still be some issues with their services. For instance, you can still face sluggish internet speed or a lack of features than what they are featuring. Moreover, this is extremely advisable to search for your own to choose the right option for you—especially when comparing the Best VPNs in India to ensure optimal performance and security.
Moreover, there might also be some debates on premium or free choices; some free choices might offer services that you can only access from a premium subscription, but ultimately, premium VPN extensions offer more services than the free ones.
FAQs
What is the best Chrome VPN extension?
– Although there is no definitive option for the best choice, the best option is often related to ProtonVPN.
Can you find a 100% free VPN extension choice for Chrome?
Yes, you can find a lot of free and efficient VPN extensions that you can find for Chrome.
Which is the best 100% free VPN application?
There are a lot of free VPNs out there with a lot of good services that you can find, but ProtonVPN has the most features among users.
Is the Chrome VPN worth it?
Yes, the Chrome VPN is worth it when it comes to convenience and as well as security,
