The best VPN for Mac in 2025 for speed, design & Apple Silicon

Think of the best VPN for Mac as more than just a security app. It’s a digital upgrade that brings the privacy and freedom of your online connection up to the standard of the powerful, elegant machine it’s running on.

In a world where everything from your internet service provider to trackers on public Wi-Fi is constantly watching, your Mac’s famous built-in security doesn’t protect your data once it leaves your device. This isn’t about viruses; it’s about preventing your digital footprint from being monitored, logged, and sold, whether you’re working from a cafe, banking online, or simply browsing at home.

With over a decade of experience in cybersecurity, and as a dedicated Mac user myself, I’ve tested countless VPNs that felt clunky and out of place on macOS. I’ve seen firsthand how settling for a poorly designed tool can hinder the seamless experience Apple users value. A great Mac VPN isn’t a chore; it’s a natural extension of your secure ecosystem.

Don’t let a subpar app compromise the elegant experience you paid for. Let me guide you to a VPN that enhances, not hinders, your Mac experience – starting now.

1. The best VPN apps for Mac in 2025

After putting the top contenders through our Mac-centric testing, we’ve narrowed it down to a select few. These aren’t just VPNs that happen to have a Mac app – these are services that deliver an experience that feels polished, intuitive, and respectful of the macOS ecosystem. I’ve personally used each of these on my own MacBook, and they are the ones that consistently passed the “Does it feel right?” test.

They blend powerful security with the simplicity and design you expect, making online privacy feel less like a chore and more like a natural part of your workflow. To help you find your perfect match at a glance, here is a summary of our top 5 picks.

1.1. #1 – ExpressVPN: The best overall Mac VPN experience

If you’re looking for a VPN that perfectly embodies the Apple philosophy of “it just works,” ExpressVPN is it. In my years of testing, it remains the most polished, reliable, and hassle-free VPN I’ve ever used on a Mac. It’s the one I recommend to friends and family who just want to be protected without ever needing to fiddle with settings.

Server Network: 
Servers in 105 countries

Simultaneous Connections:
8

Apple Silicon Support:
Yes, native M1/M2/M3 app

Key Protocol: 
Lightway (Proprietary, fast, and efficient)

Privacy Policy:
Independently audited no-logs policy

From the moment you launch the app, the experience is clean and intuitive. There’s a single, large “on” button and a clear server list. That’s it. It runs natively on Apple Silicon, so it’s incredibly fast and light on your MacBook’s battery life. It’s the definition of a premium, set-it-and-forget-it tool.

What truly elevates the experience for me is the browser extension. It acts as a full-featured remote control for the main app. I can switch server locations or check my connection status right from my browser toolbar, without ever needing to switch windows. It’s a small detail that makes a huge difference in my daily workflow.

ExpressVPN’s menu bar icon is simple and effective. It lets you connect to your last used server with a single click and gives you a quick visual confirmation that you’re protected. While it’s not as feature-rich as others, it nails the core function of getting you connected quickly and unobtrusively.

ExpressVPN is for the Mac user who values their time, prioritizes a seamless experience, and is willing to pay a premium for top-tier quality and design. If you want a VPN that will never get in your way, this is the one to get.

1.2. #2 – NordVPN: The fastest and most feature-rich Mac VPN

If ExpressVPN is the elegant, automatic sedan of the VPN world, then NordVPN is the sports car with a manual transmission and customizable settings. It’s built for Mac users who crave speed and want a toolbox of advanced features at their fingertips. For me, this is the go-to VPN for performance-heavy tasks.

Server Network: 
Servers in 111 countries

Simultaneous Connections:
10

Apple Silicon Support:
Yes, native M1/M2/M3 app

Key Protocol: 
NordLynx (Built on WireGuard for maximum speed)

Privacy Policy:
Independently audited no-logs policy

The cornerstone of NordVPN is its NordLynx protocol, which consistently delivers some of the fastest speeds I’ve ever recorded. This makes a noticeable difference when streaming 4K content or downloading large files. But the power doesn’t stop at speed. Features like Threat Protection act like a bouncer for your internet, blocking ads, trackers, and malicious sites before they can even load.

A key point for Mac users is the choice between two app versions. The App Store version is simpler and uses the IKEv2 protocol, which is great but limited by Apple’s rules. For full power, I always recommend downloading the app directly from NordVPN’s website. This version unlocks the complete feature set, including Threat Protection and more VPN protocol options.

NordVPN offers one of the best menu bar utilities out there. It’s a mini command center, allowing for one-click connections to recent servers, a quick overview of your status, and even a small map. This is a huge productivity booster that keeps you from ever having to open the full app.

NordVPN is the best VPN for Mac for power users, streamers, and anyone who wants granular control over their connection. If you want the absolute fastest speeds and a suite of security extras to tinker with, NordVPN is the clear winner.

1.3. #3 – Surfshark: The best value VPN for the entire Apple ecosystem

Surfshark‘s superpower is its incredible value proposition. It’s a full-featured, fast, and polished VPN that offers one thing its premium competitors don’t: Unlimited simultaneous connections. This is a game-changer for anyone living in the Apple ecosystem.

Server Network: 
Servers in 100 countries

Simultaneous Connections:
Unlimited

Apple Silicon Support:
Yes, native M1/M2/M3 app

Key Protocol: 
WireGuard

Privacy Policy:
Independently audited no-logs policy

I have Surfshark installed on my MacBook, iPhone, and iPad, and my family members use my account on their devices, too – all under one single, affordable subscription. It’s the perfect “protect everyone” solution. The Mac app itself is clean, modern, and runs natively on Apple Silicon, so it feels responsive and doesn’t drain your battery.

Beyond the unlimited connections, it includes valuable extras like CleanWeb, which blocks ads and trackers effectively. While it might not have the raw power of NordVPN or the absolute polish of ExpressVPN, it strikes an amazing balance. It’s like getting a family plan for the price of a single subscription.

Surfshark provides a functional and clean menu bar icon. It allows for quick connections, shows your current status, and gives you access to your most recent server locations. It’s straightforward and gets the job done efficiently without any clutter.

If you have multiple Apple devices or want to share your VPN with family, Surfshark is the undisputed champion of value. It’s the ideal choice for students, families, and budget-conscious Mac users who refuse to compromise on core features and quality.

1.4. #4 – TunnelBear: The most fun and user-friendly Mac VPN

In a field often dominated by technical specs and complex features, TunnelBear wins on pure charm and simplicity. It’s designed from the ground up to be the most approachable VPN on the planet, making it the perfect first VPN for anyone who feels intimidated by technology.

Server Network: 
Servers in 47+ countries

Simultaneous Connections:
Unlimited

Apple Silicon Support:
Yes, native M1/M2/M3 app

Key Protocol: 
OpenVPN / IKEv2

Privacy Policy:
Independently audited no-logs policy

Instead of a generic list of servers, TunnelBear gives you a whimsical animated map of the world. To connect, you simply click on a tunnel, and a digital bear “tunnels” its way to that location. It’s fun, visual, and incredibly intuitive. My parents, who are often wary of new software, were able to use TunnelBear instantly without any help from me.

While it lacks the advanced features of NordVPN or the massive server network of ExpressVPN, that’s precisely the point. Its strength lies in its simplicity. It’s a prime example of a VPN that fully embraces a fun, user-centric, Mac-like experience. It proves that security software doesn’t have to be boring.

TunnelBear’s menu bar icon is just as charming as its main app. It gives you a quick-connect toggle and shows you how much data you have left on the free plan (if you’re using it). It’s simple, cute, and fits the app’s personality perfectly.

TunnelBear is for the Mac user who is new to VPNs, values simplicity above all else, and appreciates a well-designed, fun interface. It’s the least intimidating way to get excellent online protection.

1.5. #5 – Proton VPN: The best for security & a usable free plan

Proton VPN comes from the same team behind Proton Mail, the world-renowned encrypted email service. It’s a VPN built with a security-first mindset, based in privacy-friendly Switzerland. Its biggest differentiator, however, is offering the best free VPN plan I’ve ever tested.

Server Network: 
Servers in 91 countries

Simultaneous Connections:
10 (1 for free plan)

Apple Silicon Support:
Yes, native M1/M2/M3 app

Key Protocol: 
WireGuard / Stealth (for bypassing censorship)

Privacy Policy:
Independently audited no-logs policy, open-source apps

Unlike most “free” VPNs that cap your data after a few hundred megabytes, Proton VPN’s free plan offers unlimited data. This is unheard of. While it limits you to servers in three countries and doesn’t support streaming, it’s a completely viable option for securing your browsing on public Wi-Fi or protecting your day-to-day privacy without paying a cent.

The paid version unlocks the full server network, blazing-fast speeds, and powerful features like the Secure Core network, which routes your traffic through multiple hardened servers for ultimate security. The Mac app is sleek, technical, and feels like a professional-grade tool.

Proton VPN’s menu bar icon is all business. It provides detailed connection information, a quick-connect button, and access to recent servers. It’s less about charm and more about providing clear, functional control, which aligns perfectly with its security-focused brand.

If you’re a security-conscious user or want to try a high-quality VPN without any financial commitment, Proton VPN is your best choice. Its free plan is a genuinely useful tool, and its paid plans offer some of the most robust security in the industry.

2. Why your Mac still needs a VPN (and what iCloud Private Relay can’t do)

Let’s get one thing straight: The idea that Macs are completely immune to all threats is a myth. While it’s true that macOS has robust built-in security that protects your device from most malware, that security stops the moment your data leaves your computer. A VPN isn’t about protecting your Mac from computer viruses – it’s about protecting your privacy online.

Think of it this way: Your Mac’s security is like having a strong, unpickable front door. It’s great at keeping intruders out of your house. But once you step outside and walk down the street, anyone can see where you’re going, what stores you visit, and who you talk to. That’s your internet traffic, and it’s completely exposed.

This is where many people think, “But I have iCloud Private Relay!” And it’s a fantastic feature, but it’s not a full VPN. I like to think of it as only closing the blinds in your living room.

It only protects traffic from the Safari browser.

Anything you do in other apps – like your email client, a game, Spotify, or a torrenting application – is like being in the kitchen or the bedroom with the blinds wide open. Everyone on the outside (your internet provider, network admins) can still see what you’re doing.

It doesn't let you choose your location.

Private Relay hides your true IP address but doesn’t let you pick a new one. This makes it useless for unblocking geo-restricted content. For example, you can’t use it to access the US Netflix library from Europe or watch BBC iPlayer from outside the UK. A full VPN, on the other hand, is like having a teleportation device. A full VPN gives you complete control over your virtual location, a feature I use constantly to access my US subscriptions when I’m abroad.

To make it crystal clear, here’s a simple breakdown:

3. How we test and rank the best VPNs for Mac

A VPN can look great on paper, but feel completely wrong on a Mac. I’ve tested dozens that felt like clunky, poorly translated Windows apps. That’s why our testing process at Safelyo is different. We don’t just look at server counts and encryption standards; we evaluate these apps through the lens of a daily Mac user.

Our “Mac User’s Scorecard” prioritizes what truly matters in the Apple ecosystem:

Mac app design & UX (40%)

This is our biggest priority. Does the app feel like it belongs on macOS? I look for clean interfaces, smooth animations, and perfect Dark Mode integration. It’s the difference between a custom-tailored suit and one that’s baggy in the shoulders – you can just tell when it’s made for you.

Apple Silicon (M1/M2/M3) optimization (20%)

We check if an app runs natively on Apple’s chips or through the Rosetta 2 translator. Think of it as speaking a language fluently versus needing a translator for every word. A native app is faster, more responsive, and, crucially, uses less battery. As someone who relies on my MacBook’s battery life, this is a non-negotiable factor.

Performance & speed (20%)

We test speeds using protocols popular on Mac: IKEv2, which macOS natively supports for excellent stability and speed, and WireGuard, the modern protocol known for its blistering performance and efficiency, perfect for getting the most out of your MacBook’s battery. We ensure you can stream and browse without frustrating lag.

Mac-specific features (10%)

The little things make a big difference. I always check for a convenient menu bar icon that allows for one-click connections. Does it support Siri Shortcuts for automation? These details show that a developer truly understands the Mac workflow.

Security & privacy (10%)

Finally, we verify the fundamentals. This includes a reliable kill switch – an emergency brake that cuts your internet if the VPN disconnects – and a strict, independently audited no-logs policy. If a VPN doesn’t nail these basics, it doesn’t make our list, no matter how beautiful its app is.

4. Beyond the app: Advanced Mac VPN setup and tips

While using a dedicated app is the easiest way to get protected, truly integrating a VPN into your Mac workflow unlocks another level of convenience and power. These are a couple of advanced tips I personally use to make my VPN feel like a built-in part of macOS.

4.1. How to set up a VPN on Mac manually

Why would you do this when apps exist? Sometimes you might be using a niche VPN service that doesn’t have a dedicated app, or perhaps you’re connecting to a private network for work or a personal project. macOS has built-in support for this, and it’s surprisingly simple.

Think of it like programming a speed dial on your phone. Instead of opening your contacts and searching for a name, you just press one button. Manually setting up a VPN creates a profile right in your Mac’s Network settings that you can access anytime.

Here’s the quick version:

1. Go to System Settings > Network.
2. Click the three-dots icon (…) at the bottom and select Add VPN Configuration.
3. Choose the protocol type (usually IKEv2, which is very common and secure).
4. Enter the server address and account details provided by your VPN service or network administrator.
5. Click Create, and you’re done! You can now connect directly from the Network settings or even add a status icon to your menu bar.

4.2. Automating your VPN with Siri shortcuts

This is where the magic of the Apple ecosystem really shines. Siri Shortcuts let you automate tasks, and many of the best VPNs for Mac support them. I’ve set up a few simple shortcuts that have become second nature.

For example, I have a shortcut called “Secure Connect.” When I say, “Hey Siri, Secure Connect,” it automatically launches my VPN and connects to my favorite server in Switzerland. It’s a tiny time-saver that feels incredibly futuristic.

Creating one is easy:

1. Open the Shortcuts app on your Mac.
2. Click the plus icon (+) to create a new shortcut.
3. In the search bar on the right, type the name of your VPN (e.g., “NordVPN”).
4. You’ll see a list of actions the app provides, like “Connect to VPN” or “Set VPN Connection.”
5. Drag the action you want into the main window and configure it (e.g., choose a specific server).
6. Give your shortcut a name, and you can now run it with your voice.

It’s a small tweak, but it’s a perfect example of how a well-integrated VPN can enhance, not hinder, your Mac experience.

5. FAQ about the best VPN for Mac

Navigating the world of VPNs on Mac can bring up some specific questions. I’ve answered some of the most common ones I hear from fellow Mac users, distilled into straightforward, no-nonsense answers.

6. Conclusion

Finding the best VPN for Mac is about choosing a tool that respects the performance, design, and seamless integration you expect from the Apple ecosystem. It’s not just about adding security; it’s about enhancing your entire online experience without causing friction or slowing you down.

Here are the key takeaways to remember:

• A full VPN offers comprehensive, system-wide protection that iCloud Private Relay simply cannot match, securing all your apps, not just your Safari browser.
• The best Mac apps are native to Apple Silicon, feature an intuitive design that feels at home on macOS, and offer stable, high-speed connections.
• ExpressVPN provides the best overall experience, NordVPN leads in speed and features, Surfshark offers unbeatable value for all your Apple devices, TunnelBear is perfect for beginners, and Proton VPN excels with its security and free plan.

Don’t compromise on your online privacy with a clunky or inefficient app. By choosing a VPN designed with the Mac user in mind, you ensure your digital security is as elegant and powerful as the hardware you use every day. To continue exploring your options and find the perfect fit, dive into other detailed, hands-on reviews in the Best VPN category from Safelyo.