A Chromebook is very useful to have when out and about. It combines the best features of a tablet and laptop, allowing for maximum portability and functionality. However, this portability can lead to some problems with security, as users might be tempted to connect to open networks. Malicious hackers might try to use those networks to steal sensitive information and launch attacks, making such connections especially risky. Anyone looking to maximize their security on the go should consider checking out the 5 best VPN services for Chromebook.
Chromebooks are compatible with most VPNs that offer an Android version. There are some restrictions, but these Android versions are especially helpful since they’ll cover every part of the Chromebook, not just the browser. If all you do is surf the web, then it might be better to opt for VPNs with browser extensions instead. These will create less impact on your system while still keeping you secure online.
Disclaimer: This article includes affiliate links to NordVPN and ExpressVPN. You won’t be charged anything extra for clicking on links to these services, but purchases made through these links will support the writer.
The 5 Best VPN Services for use on Chromebook
- 1. ExpressVPN
- 2. NordVPN
- 3. ProtonVPN
- 4. PIA
- 5. SurfShark
1. ExpressVPN
Though it’s not as closely designed for Chromebook, ExpressVPN still offers support for the device. It even has a setup guide for the device that goes into how the service is compatible with Chromebook, stating its usage of OpenVPN. While it’s incompatible with any device that doesn’t have Android app support, this shouldn’t be too much of an issue for most users. The great documentation and fantastic features offered by ExpressVPN make it a good choice for anyone, and this fact doesn’t change if you’re on a Chromebook.
ExpressVPN costs $8.32 USD per month if you go for its full commitment option of 12 months. Going for just one month will cost around $12.95. It’s one of the more expensive VPN options, but it makes up for this expense with speed and support. Whether you have a Chromebook or something else entirely, you won’t go wrong if you decide to make ExpressVPN your service of choice.
2. NordVPN
Perhaps unsurprisingly, NordVPN — one of the biggest VPN services out there — has a version suited specifically for Chromebook. Users can take full advantage of threat protection and secure file sharing while connected to outside networks. Additionally, the website states how Chromebooks can take advantage of VPNs directly by adding them to browsers or downloading them from the Google Play Store. Though it lacks any Chromebook-specific features, users can be sure that NordVPN is at least offering its full support.
At its cheapest, NordVPN costs $3.49 USD per month over a period of two years — or $5.99 per month if you get the complete package. Spending a bit more can be useful if you use more devices than just your Chromebook, as the complete package offers a password manager and cloud storage that can be used elsewhere. Going for the most noncommittal option will run you around $12.99 for one month. No matter which option you pick, you’ll still get the same high-speed, high-security VPN, so feel free to choose based on your preferences!
3. ProtonVPN
ProtonVPN is another service that has sections on its website dedicated to Chromebook. Like ExpressVPN, it offers its service on the Google Play store, making it compatible with devices that support Android apps. Unlike ExpressVPN — or any other VPN on this list — it offers a basic version of its services for free. As such, if you’re unsure if ProtonVPN will work on your device, you can test it out using this free version for as long as you like.
The paid version of ProtonVPN is, as expected, much less limited than its free version. It costs around €4.99 euros per month for the 2-year plan and €9.99 for the single-month plan. Paying for ProtonVPN will grant access to more servers, higher speeds, and more options for security. If the price still seems like a bit too much, you can always install the free version on your Chromebook and test its reliability while you’re out and about. You won’t have to worry about any 30-day restrictions on a money-back guarantee, and to top it all off, ProtonVPN will still offer one if you dive into its paid version.
4. PIA
PrivateInternetAccess, or PIA, is a bit more complicated to set up — but it’s well worth the extra steps. In a way, its setup allows users to get more intimate with their Chromebook, advising them on additional files and alternate methods they can use to personalize their experience. This shows a level of knowledge regarding Chromebooks that other VPN services might not be able to match. Of course, PIA also offers top-notch security and privacy, making it perfect for mobile devices of any kind.
The service offered by PIA only costs around $2 USD per month for its 3-year plan, making it one of the cheapest options you’ll find online. Its 1-month plan costs around $11.95, also making it a slightly cheaper option if you just want to test it out. On Chromebooks, PIA trades its ease of setup for personalization and reliability. If you’re willing to make that sort of trade-off, this VPN might be a Chromebook user’s best choice.
5. SurfShark
One more VPN service that might be attractive to those with a Chromebook is SurfShark. Like other services on this list, SurfShark has its own landing page dedicated to Chromebook users, directing readers to the Google Play store and specifying which Chromebooks are compatible.
It also mentions compatibility with browsers via extensions, a fact that isn’t often talked about with other services. SurfShark is able to go toe-to-toe with the leading brands while offering its own documentation and options, making it yet another fine choice for anyone looking for a reliable VPN.
SurfShark’s 2-year plan costs around $2.39 per month. Its 1-month plan costs around $12.95. Users can also opt for the full SurfShark One bundle for an additional cost, giving them access to real-time alerts and an antivirus. It doesn’t have a whole lot of documentation specifically about Chromebooks, but with its low price and competitive quality, SurfShark is still quite easy to recommend.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a VPN on Chromebook, chances are you’re looking at one for the purposes of security. Finding a service that offers reliable security is just as important as finding one that’s compatible with your device in the first place. If you’re having trouble getting things set up, take advantage of money-back guarantees and experiment with your choices. Eventually, you should find the best VPN for anything you’ll do with your Chromebook!
