Macs are becoming a more popular target for hackers. I’ve been a long-time Apple fan because I always felt safer using its products. However, as the company’s gained more customers, hackers are increasingly targeting Mac users. Unfortunately, Safari VPN extensions are largely unavailable, so you’re best option to stay safe is to use a full VPN app.
Using a VPN app protects your entire Mac, iMac, or Mac Mini — including your Safari traffic. I tested 30 free VPNs on my Macbook Pro and shortlisted the best ones that are safe to use (some of them even performed well for streaming!). Unfortunately, like all free VPNs, they have some pretty big limitations.
That’s why you’re always better off using a low-cost premium VPN, like ExpressVPN — It has no limitations: you get industry-leading security features, fast speeds, and unlimited data which is something no free Mac VPN provides. I know it’s not free, but it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so if you’re not totally happy with it, getting a refund is easy.
ExpressVPN — The best overall VPN for Mac and Safari, with the fastest speeds we tested and fully-equipped browser extensions. Plus, no data limits to hold you back. You can try ExpressVPN on your Mac risk-free because it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
CyberGhost — Specialty servers give you quick and reliable access to torrenting and streaming platforms on Safari. The native Mac app is easy to set up and navigate.
Proton VPN — A completely free VPN for Mac with unlimited data and solid security. But it can’t access many streaming services.
Avira Phantom VPN — A free VPN with unlimited connections to cover your macOS, iOS, and iPad devices. Although, there’s no kill switch, so it’s not the best choice if privacy is a priority.
hide.me — A completely free VPN with plenty of security settings to customize your VPN connection on Mac. It limits you to only 1 device connection, though.
While there’s no Safari extension, ExpressVPN offers highly secure Chrome and Firefox extensions. Its interface looks similar to the main app, and it gives you access to all 3,000 servers. Unlike most browser extensions, which are usually just proxies, it works as a “remote control” for the main app. Meaning, it integrates the same level of privacy and security into your browsing sessions.
Of course, the desktop app also protects your Safari sessions. The Chrome/Firefox extensions are mainly a convenience, and don’t offer extra protection. So rest assured, if Safari is your go-to browser, your data is still kept safe the app.
ExpressVPN has the fastest speeds of any VPN tested. I ran speed tests this with Ookla on Safari using my MacBook Pro. With a local server in UK Docklands, I got 124.69Mbps — just 5% lower than my base speed. Its distant locations were fast, too. I had 113.26Mbps from New York (5,500km away); over 4 times what’s needed for Ultra HD.
The app runs natively on silicon Macs. Most VPNs are only optimized for Apple’s older Intel processors. This causes slowdowns and drains your battery when you use it with newer models. On the other hand, ExpressVPN detects which processor your Apple device uses to give you fast speeds and optimal performance.
ExpressVPN gives you access to 3,000 servers in 94 countries. These connections realiably unblocked every streaming platform I tested — like Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney+. I also like that you can create shortcuts for easy access to your favorite apps and sites on the app’s home screen.
Although it’s not free, you can try ExpressVPN on Mac and Safari risk-free, since it comes with a money-back guarantee. This gives you 30 days to claim a refund if you’re not impressed. You can count on this policy, too. I requested my refund via 24/7 live chat and got a reply within seconds. The money was back in my account within 5 days.
