Tired of slow browsing in Safari?
Countless VPNs promise complicated solutions to this issue, so we’ve thoroughly tested and compared them all. Eventually, we found the five best VPNs optimized for seamless Safari browsing.
Say goodbye to slow loading times and buffering, and enjoy a more secure experience, whether streaming, shopping, or just reading the news. The VPNs we chose will encrypt your data, connect you to speed-optimized servers across the globe, and provide a host of advanced security tools (including malware and ad blockers!).
Here they are:
- ExpressVPN - The best VPN for Safari, with secure servers, blazing-fast streaming speeds, and industry-best security.
- Surfshark - A powerful, budget-friendly VPN optimized for Safari, providing multi-device protection and affordable pricing.
- NordVPN - Boasts a huge global server network, top-tier security, and reliable performance on low-cost plans with lots of add-ons.
- CyberGhost VPN - A beginner-friendly VPN with a simple interface, easy setup, and great value plans.
- IPVanish - Easy-to-use apps offering fast speeds, robust security, and seamless multi-device compatibility.
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ExpressVPN offers a comprehensive risk-free 30-day trial when you register on this page . Experience the top-rated VPN for privacy without any limits for an entire month—perfect for testing out the best VPN for Safari.
No hidden clauses—simply reach out to support within 30 days if you feel ExpressVPN isn't the right fit and receive a complete refund. Begin your ExpressVPN trial journey here .
We tested every VPN on the desktop and iOS versions of Safari to ensure they deliver:
- Fast connections even when using far-away servers
- Airtight security
- A strict privacy policy
- Large network of servers worldwide
- Multiple simultaneous device connections
- Easy-to-use apps on every device
- Affordable plans
| TEST WINNER ExpressVPN | Surfshark | NordVPN | CyberGhost VPN | IPVanish | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Website | ExpressVPN | Surfshark | NordVPN | CyberGhost VPN | IPVanish |
| Ranking for Safari | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
| Performance | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 7 |
| Reliability | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 7 |
| Free trial | |||||
| Total servers | 3000 | 3200 | 6200 | 11625 | 2000 |
| Payment | PayPal Visa/MasterCard Amex Cryptocurrency | PayPal Visa/MasterCard Amex Cryptocurrency | PayPal Visa/MasterCard Amex Cryptocurrency | PayPal Visa/MasterCard Amex Cryptocurrency | PayPal Visa/MasterCard Amex Cryptocurrency |
| Unblocks: | Netflix iPlayer Disney+ Amazon Prime Hulu | Netflix iPlayer Disney+ Amazon Prime Hulu | Netflix iPlayer Disney+ Amazon Prime Hulu | Netflix iPlayer Disney+ Amazon Prime Hulu | Netflix iPlayer Disney+ Amazon Prime Hulu |
| Supported platforms | Windows macOS iOS Android | Windows macOS iOS Android | Windows macOS iOS Android | Windows macOS iOS Android | Windows macOS iOS Android |
Deep dive: The best VPNs for Safari in 2024
Let's explore the features of our five best VPNs and see what makes them well-suited for Safari browsing.
These are just quick overviews. Check out our comprehensive reviews for a more in-depth analysis of each VPN.
ExpressVPN is our #1 best VPN for Safari. It offers reliable, high-speed, and secure connections coupled with unparalleled privacy. ExpressVPN boasts an extensive global network with servers in over 90 countries, ensuring smooth connections and reduced downtime. This intelligent network prioritizes efficient data routing, resulting in exceptional speeds that enhance your Safari browsing experience without compromising security. Beyond a vast server network, ExpressVPN uses the innovative Lightway VPN protocol, which acts like a turbocharger for your internet connection. This technology uses lightweight code and smart encryption to maintain consistent speeds without compromising security while browsing with Safari. ExpressVPN prioritizes your privacy. It employs RAM-only servers that automatically erase data after each session, ensuring your information is never stored. Additionally, military-grade encryption and automatic kill-switches safeguard your online activity every second you’re online. Its location in the British Virgin Islands, known for its robust privacy laws, further reinforces your online security. Whether on your desktop or iOS device, ExpressVPN provides the fastest, most secure VPN experience. ExpressVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee on every plan. Surfshark is the best budget VPN for Safari, with unlimited simultaneous device connections, airtight security, and excellent privacy tools to keep you hidden online. Surfshark offers a great package of features for Safari. You’ll enjoy stable and reliable connections from various server locations worldwide (3,000+ servers in 100+ countries). This translates to faster browsing speeds – minimizing buffering and lag while streaming or accessing content within the browser. Our team tested this, streaming across the globe using Surfshark, and all reported buffer-free 4K HD streaming. Surfshark goes further than just basic VPN protection. It incorporates additional tools specially designed to protect your privacy, including a built-in ad blocker, malware detection, IP address rotator, and stealth mode (hides your VPN by obfuscating your server). Combined, these tools reduce your exposure to tracking, viruses, and online snooping. Surfshark also allows you to connect unlimited devices to a single subscription, making it ideal for families with multiple devices. Surfshark offers a 30-day money-back guarantee to try it out risk-free. NordVPN is a fast and reliable VPN for Safari that offers speed, privacy, security, and unrestricted internet access. NordVPN boasts high internet speeds that consistently deliver fast connections. We love it for activities like streaming videos and downloading large files. Our latest tests show an average speed of 55 Mbps even when connected to servers across continents. NordVPN's exclusive NordLynx VPN protocol provides robust and superfast connections, specifically optimized for bypassing geo-restrictions. This allows you to enjoy uninterrupted access to various online content and streaming services directly within Safari, including Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and other popular platforms. NordVPN also has a SmartDNS technology that allows you to stream content on devices that don't typically support VPNs, such as game consoles and some smart TVs. When it comes to security, you’re kept safe with: Each security tool adds a layer of protection, keeping your data and location hidden without compromising speed. NordVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. You can test its features and experience its benefits risk-free. CyberGhost stands out as the most user-friendly VPN for Safari, offering fast connections for streaming, torrenting, and other online activities. Boasting a vast network of over 9,500 servers across 90+ countries, CyberGhost ensures wide global coverage and reliable connections for smooth browsing in Safari anywhere in the world. CyberGhost offers a variety of cutting-edge VPN protocols, including WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2. You can choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences. This selection contributes to fast and stable connections, enabling smooth browsing within Safari. The provider prioritizes user experience with its user-friendly interface, making it ideal for VPN beginners. Additionally, preconfigured settings during the initial setup facilitate a smooth installation process, and the ability to connect to up to seven devices simultaneously makes it perfect for family sharing. CyberGhost offers a generous 45-day money-back guarantee on all plans. Our tests across Safari and various other browsers (including Edge, Firefox, and Google Chrome) confirmed the effectiveness of IPVanish's security features. The military-grade encryption, leak protections, and kill-switches all worked perfectly. While IPVanish excels in security, it struggles with streaming. Throughout our tests, the team struggled to access Amazon Prime Video and popular streamers. We could still access Netflix US and its other regional libraries, but if you need a VPN for streaming on lots of sites, IPVanish is not reliable enough. Stick to ExpressVPN or Surfshark. IPVanish is based in the United States, which carries some implications regarding data privacy. While we trust its no-logs policy and other privacy guarantees, plenty of better VPNs are on this list in much more privacy-friendly locations. IPVanish offers a no-questions-asked 30-day money-back guarantee. 1. ExpressVPN
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Methodology: how we tested the best VPNs for Safari
At ProPrivacy, we take pride in our independent and transparent approach to evaluating VPNs.
We use a unique and meticulous testing process to help you find the best VPN for Safari browsing needs. We focus on key features crucial for accessing content and enhancing your online experience.
- Server network: A VPN with thousands of servers across the globe can deliver lightning-fast connections anywhere – without reducing encryption or security.
- Access to content: We tested every VPN for compatibility with Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and many other global streaming sites.
- Security: The best VPNs shield you behind layers of military-grade encryption, DNS/IPv6 leak protection, automatic kill-switches, and much more.
- Privacy: Our favorite VPNs also offer extra tools like built-in ad and tracking blocks, dark web monitoring, stealth modes, and IP address rotators to keep you hidden online.
- Value: We only recommend VPNs with simple, affordable plans and generous money-back guarantees (at least 30 days).
- Easy to use: Anyone should be able to turn on a VPN easily. We don’t recommend any VPN that over-complicates their apps.
- Customer support: Look for VPNs that offer 24/7 live chat support with human agents, YouTube support channels, and active user forums if you need help.
Read our complete VPN review process to see the full metrics and methods you can use when choosing any VPN.
How to set up a VPN For Safari
While the VPNs on our list don't offer Safari extensions, they provide apps compatible with your Mac device for a secure Safari browsing experience.
Here's how to set up a VPN for Safari on your Mac device:
- Download a VPN from the App Store. We recommend ExpressVPN.
- Install the VPN on your Mac device.
- Open the VPN app and configure it to MacOS specification.
- Restart your device.
Congratulations! Now, you can enjoy a more seamless online experience on your Mac.
If you still encounter issues, try clearing your browser's cache and cookies, as temporary data might sometimes cause glitches. Also, double-check that your VPN application is connected to a server in your preferred region. Reconnect if necessary and refresh the webpage.
You should now have unrestricted access to your desired content while maintaining enhanced online privacy and security within Safari.
Can I use a free VPN with Safari?
Most free VPNs struggle to provide an optimal experience on Safari, and many will actually compromise your privacy rather than protect it.
We’ve spent years testing, reviewing, and investigating free VPNs. The biggest issues we’ve witnessed include:
1. Free VPNs limit the locations you can access. They typically offer only two to three countries that quickly become overcrowded with other free users.
2. Free VPNs on Safari are frequently too slow for seamless online activities. They may struggle to deliver fast connections or intentionally throttle your speed, nudging you toward upgrading to a paid plan.
3. Free VPNs come bundled with intrusive and irritating ads. These create a disruptive user experience.
4. Free VPNs may compromise your privacy by selling your information to data brokers and advertisers. Additionally, there's uncertainty about malware and trackers on your device, potentially used to track your online activities.
5. Free VPNs have been caught hosting malware and hackers on their networks, posing significant security threats.
Low-cost premium VPNs offer a much better experience on Safari, without the limitations and risks associated with free alternatives. Choosing these more reliable options will save you from headaches and frustrations in the long run.
VPN for Safari FAQs
Conclusion
Finding the perfect VPN for Safari can be a struggle because of the overwhelming number of VPNs out there claiming the title of "fastest," "most secure," or "most powerful." Don't settle for marketing hype! Instead, rely on our independent testing to guide your decision.
If you’re in a rush, check out ExpressVPN. It earned our best VPN for Safari title based on rigorous testing from locations across the globe. Backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can test it risk-free and experience the speed and security for yourself.