You need a VPN for China. But which one costs what? Can you pay with Alipay? What if you're already in China and need to buy one? And how do you set it up on your specific device?
Most VPN guides tell you which VPN to buy. This one tells you how to actually pay for it — with real prices for every plan length, which providers accept Chinese payment methods (Alipay, WeChat Pay, UnionPay), and step-by-step setup for every platform you might bring to China.
30-Second Price Comparison
| VPN | Monthly | 1-Year | 2-Year | Cheapest Deal | Devices |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ExpressVPN | $13.99 | $5.99/mo | $2.79/mo | 2-yr + 4 months free | 14 |
| NordVPN | $12.99 | $4.99/mo | $3.09/mo | 2-yr + 3 months free | 10 |
| Surfshark | $15.45 | $3.19/mo | $1.99/mo | 2-yr + 3 months free | Unlimited |
| Astrill VPN | $20.00 | $12.50/mo | — | Annual plan | 5 |
| ZoogVPN | $9.99 | $4.99/mo | $2.49/mo | 2-yr plan | 10 |
| LightningX VPN | — | — | — | ~$4.80/mo | 3 |
| Proton VPN | $11.99 | $5.99/mo | $2.99/mo | 2-yr plan | 10 |
| CyberGhost | $12.99 | $4.29/mo | $2.11/mo | 2-yr + 3 months free | 7 |
All prices are as of June 2026. Most providers offer 30-day money-back guarantees (except Astrill: 7-day trial only). Prices shown are what you actually pay — some providers advertise "per month" pricing but charge the full term upfront.
How to Pay for a VPN: 6 Methods
Method 1: Credit / Debit Card (Easiest)
Works with: Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover
Accepted by: ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, Proton VPN, CyberGhost, ZoogVPN, LightningX VPN
Process: Enter card details at checkout — same as buying anything online.
China caveat: If you're already in China, your foreign credit card will still work on VPN provider websites if you can access them. The problem is that most VPN websites are blocked behind the Great Firewall. You need to use a mirror site or have someone outside China make the purchase for you.
Method 2: Alipay ✅ (Best for China Residents)
Accepted by: ZoogVPN, LightningX VPN, Astrill VPN
NOT accepted by: ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, Proton VPN, CyberGhost
How to buy with Alipay:
- Open the VPN provider's website (use mirror URL if inside China)
- Select your plan → proceed to checkout
- Select Alipay as payment method
- Scan the QR code with your Alipay app → confirm payment
- Account credentials delivered via email
Which VPNs accept Alipay in 2026:
| VPN | Alipay | WeChat Pay | UnionPay |
|---|---|---|---|
| ZoogVPN | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | — |
| LightningX VPN | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | — |
| Astrill VPN | ✅ Yes | — | ✅ Yes |
| ExpressVPN | ❌ No | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| NordVPN | ❌ No | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Surfshark | ❌ No | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Proton VPN | ❌ No | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| CyberGhost | ❌ No | ❌ No | ❌ No |
Why this matters: If you're a long-term resident in China, renewing a VPN subscription with Alipay is dramatically easier than keeping a foreign credit card active. ZoogVPN and LightningX VPN are the two providers that fully embrace Chinese payment methods.
Method 3: PayPal
Accepted by: ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, Proton VPN, CyberGhost
China caveat: PayPal is blocked in China. You need a VPN to access PayPal's website — which creates a chicken-and-egg problem. Use this method only if you're buying before you arrive, or have someone outside China make the purchase.
Method 4: Cryptocurrency
Accepted by: ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, Proton VPN, Mullvad, LightningX VPN
Accepted coins: Bitcoin, Ethereum, and others depending on provider
Why use crypto: Maximum privacy — no name or billing address linked to your account. Works from anywhere in the world without relying on traditional payment processors.
How to pay: Select cryptocurrency at checkout → the provider generates a wallet address → send the exact amount → payment confirms in 10–30 minutes → account activated.
Method 5: Gift Cards / Redemption Codes
Works with: Some providers accept gift cards purchased through authorized resellers
Where to buy: Amazon, Play-Store, or third-party resellers
China use case: If you're in China and can't access the VPN provider's website directly, buying a gift card through Amazon (which is sometimes accessible) or having someone buy one for you can work as a workaround.
Method 6: Payment Through a Friend Outside China
The last resort: Have a friend or family member outside China purchase the VPN subscription on your behalf using their credit card or PayPal. They receive the account credentials and share them with you via email or a messaging app.
Practical tip: This is more common than you'd think. Many expats in China have a friend back home handle their VPN renewals.
What If You're Already in China Without a VPN?
This is the hardest scenario. VPN provider websites are blocked. App stores are restricted. Here's what to do:
Option 1: Use Mirror Websites
Several VPN providers maintain alternative URLs that are accessible from inside China:
| VPN | Official Site (blocked in China) | Mirror Site (accessible in China) |
|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | nordvpn.com | nordwangluo.com |
| Surfshark | surfshark.com | surfshark.co.uk |
| ZoogVPN | zoogvpn.com | zoog.pro |
| LightningX VPN | lightningxvpn.com | slaclouds.com |
Important: Mirror URLs change frequently. Before relying on a mirror, verify it's current through the provider's support channels (email them — email often works even when websites are blocked).
Option 2: Email Customer Support
Most VPN providers have email-based support that works from China:
- ExpressVPN: [email protected]
- NordVPN: [email protected]
- Surfshark: [email protected]
Email them explaining you're in China and need to sign up or download their app. Many providers will send you a direct download link and an alternative payment URL.
Option 3: Use Bing to Find Working Links
Bing.com is one of the few Western search engines accessible in China without a VPN. Search for "[VPN name] China mirror link" on Bing to find current working URLs.
Option 4: Have a Friend Outside China Help
The most reliable method. Have someone outside China:
1. Purchase the VPN subscription
2. Download the installation files (APK for Android, .exe for Windows, .dmg for Mac)
3. Send you the files and credentials via email or a file-sharing service
VPN Cost by Trip Length: What You'll Actually Pay
Not everyone needs a 2-year VPN subscription. Here's what you should expect to pay based on how long you'll be in China:
1–2 Weeks (Tourist)
| VPN | Plan | Total Cost | $/Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| Surfshark | 1 month | $15.45 | $1.10–$2.21 |
| ExpressVPN | 1 month | $13.99 | $1.00–$2.00 |
| NordVPN | 1 month | $12.99 | $0.93–$1.86 |
| ZoogVPN | 1 month | $9.99 | $0.71–$1.43 |
| LightningX VPN | 1 month | ~$4.80 | $0.34–$0.69 |
Best pick: LightningX VPN (~$4.80/month) or ZoogVPN ($9.99/month) if you want Alipay payment.
1–3 Months (Extended Stay)
| VPN | Plan | Total Cost | $/Month |
|---|---|---|---|
| Surfshark | 1 year | $38.28 ($3.19/mo) | $3.19 |
| NordVPN | 1 year | $59.88 ($4.99/mo) | $4.99 |
| ZoogVPN | 1 year | $59.88 ($4.99/mo) | $4.99 |
| ExpressVPN | 1 year | $71.88 ($5.99/mo) | $5.99 |
Best pick: Surfshark 1-year plan ($3.19/mo, unlimited devices). Cancel and get a refund within 30 days if you don't need the full year.
6+ Months (Long-Term)
| VPN | Plan | Total Cost | $/Month |
|---|---|---|---|
| Surfshark | 2-year + 3 free | $53.73 ($1.99/mo) | $1.99 |
| ZoogVPN | 2-year | $59.76 ($2.49/mo) | $2.49 |
| Proton VPN | 2-year | $71.76 ($2.99/mo) | $2.99 |
| NordVPN | 2-year + 3 free | $92.70 ($3.09/mo) | $3.09 |
| ExpressVPN | 2-year + 4 free | $93.72 ($2.79/mo) | $2.79 |
Best pick: Surfshark 2-year plan ($1.99/mo) for budget, or ExpressVPN 2-year ($2.79/mo) for maximum reliability. ZoogVPN ($2.49/mo) if you need Alipay/WeChat payment.
Platform-Specific Setup Guide
iPhone & iPad (iOS)
Setup time: 5 minutes
- Before arriving in China: Open the App Store (make sure you're on your home country's store, not China)
- Search for your VPN → download the app
- Open the app → sign in or create account → subscribe
- Tap Connect → test that it works
- Settings → General → VPN & Device Management → trust the VPN profile if prompted
If already in China without the app:
- Change your App Store region: Settings → your name → Media & Purchases → change to US or Hong Kong
- Download the VPN app from the non-China store
- If App Store is completely blocked, ask a friend outside China to gift you the app
Supported VPNs with native iOS apps: ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, ZoogVPN, LightningX VPN, Proton VPN, CyberGhost, Astrill
Tip: Enable Connect on Demand in Settings → VPN. This auto-connects the VPN whenever you access a blocked site.
Android Phone & Tablet
Setup time: 5 minutes (longer if sideloading)
- Before arriving in China: Open Google Play Store → search → install
- Open the app → sign in → subscribe → connect
If already in China (Google Play blocked):
- Download the APK file from the VPN provider's mirror website
- Enable "Install from Unknown Sources" in Settings → Security
- Open the APK file → install → open → sign in → connect
Supported VPNs with native Android apps: All providers listed in this guide
Tip: Keep the APK installer file saved on your phone. If the VPN app needs reinstallation, you won't need to access Google Play again.
macOS (Mac)
Setup time: 5 minutes
- Download the .dmg installer from the VPN provider's website (or mirror site)
- Open the .dmg → drag the VPN app to your Applications folder
- Open the app → sign in → subscribe → connect
- macOS may ask for permission to install a network extension → Allow
If already in China: Use a mirror website to download the installer, or have a friend email you the .dmg file.
Alternative: Manual OpenVPN/IKEv2 setup via macOS System Preferences → Network → add VPN connection. This requires configuration files from your provider.
Windows PC
Setup time: 5 minutes
- Download the .exe installer from the VPN provider's website (or mirror site)
- Run the installer → follow prompts → launch the app
- Sign in → subscribe → connect
- Windows may prompt "Do you want to allow this app to make changes" → Yes
If already in China: Download the .exe from a mirror website. If Windows Defender blocks the download, temporarily disable real-time protection, download the file, re-enable protection, then install.
Router (Protect All Devices at Once)
Setup time: 30–60 minutes (advanced)
Installing a VPN on your router protects every device connected to your WiFi — including devices that can't run VPN apps (Apple TV, smart TV, IoT devices).
Supported routers: ASUS (most models), Netgear (select models), Linksys (with DD-WRT or OpenWRT firmware)
Which VPNs support router installation:
| VPN | Router Support | Setup Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| ExpressVPN | ✅ Custom firmware for select routers | Medium |
| NordVPN | ✅ Manual OpenVPN setup | Hard |
| Surfshark | ✅ Manual OpenVPN/IKEv2 setup | Hard |
| Astrill | ✅ FlashRouters partnership | Medium |
| ZoogVPN | ✅ Manual setup guides | Hard |
How to set up (general process):
1. Check if your router supports VPN client mode
2. Download OpenVPN configuration files from your VPN provider
3. Access router admin panel (usually 192.168.1.1)
4. Navigate to VPN settings → upload config files → enter credentials
5. Connect → test
ExpressVPN's Aircove router is the easiest option — it comes with ExpressVPN pre-installed. Just plug it in, log in, and all connected devices are protected. Available for ~$170.
Apple TV
Setup time: 15–30 minutes (indirect)
Apple TV doesn't support VPN apps. You have three options:
| Method | How | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Router VPN | Install VPN on your home router → Apple TV is automatically protected | Hard |
| Mac hotspot sharing | Connect Mac to VPN → share connection via WiFi → Apple TV connects to Mac's hotspot | Medium |
| Smart DNS | Some VPNs (ExpressVPN, Surfshark) offer Smart DNS that unblocks streaming on devices without VPN apps | Easy |
Smart DNS setup for Apple TV:
1. Get DNS server addresses from your VPN provider
2. On Apple TV: Settings → Network → WiFi → Configure DNS → Manual
3. Enter the DNS addresses → restart Apple TV
4. Streaming services now show US/UK content
Chromebook
Setup time: 10 minutes
Most modern Chromebooks support Android VPN apps from the Google Play Store:
- Open Google Play Store on your Chromebook
- Search for your VPN → install
- Open the app → sign in → connect
If Google Play isn't available: Use the Chrome browser extension version of your VPN (available from ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, CyberGhost).
Manual setup alternative: Settings → Network → Add connection → Built-in VPN → enter OpenVPN configuration files from your provider.
Kindle Fire / Fire Tablet
Setup time: 10 minutes
Amazon's Fire OS doesn't include Google Play Store. You need to sideload:
- Download the VPN's APK file from the provider's website
- On your Kindle: Settings → Security → enable "Apps from Unknown Sources"
- Open the APK → install → sign in → connect
Alternatively: Use the VPN's official app from the Amazon Appstore if available (ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark have Fire TV/Stick apps that may work on Fire tablets).
Fire TV / Firestick
Setup time: 5 minutes
- On your Fire TV: search for your VPN in the Amazon Appstore
- Download → install → sign in → connect
- Once connected, launch your streaming apps — they'll show content from the VPN server's region
VPN apps available on Amazon Appstore: ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, CyberGhost
Cheapest VPN for China: Ranked by Price
If cost is your primary concern, here are the cheapest VPNs that actually work in China, ranked by their lowest available monthly rate:
| Rank | VPN | Lowest Price | Plan Required | Alipay? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Surfshark | $1.99/mo | 2-year + 3 free months | ❌ No |
| 2 | CyberGhost | $2.11/mo | 2-year + 3 free months | ❌ No |
| 3 | ZoogVPN | $2.49/mo | 2-year plan | ✅ Yes |
| 4 | ExpressVPN | $2.79/mo | 2-year + 4 free months | ❌ No |
| 5 | Proton VPN | $2.99/mo | 2-year plan | ❌ No |
| 6 | NordVPN | $3.09/mo | 2-year + 3 free months | ❌ No |
| 7 | LightningX VPN | ~$4.80/mo | Monthly | ✅ Yes |
Important: "Cheapest" doesn't mean "best for China." Surfshark is $1.99/mo but requires manual connection setup for China. ZoogVPN is $2.49/mo and accepts Alipay but has a smaller server network. ExpressVPN is $2.79/mo on a 2-year plan but historically has had China reliability issues in 2026 testing.
Hidden Costs & Traps to Watch For
1. Auto-Renewal at Full Price
Most VPN providers offer a steep discount for the first term, then auto-renew at the regular (much higher) price. Example:
- NordVPN: $3.09/mo for 2 years → renews at $12.99/mo
- Surfshark: $1.99/mo for 2 years → renews at $15.45/mo
- ExpressVPN: $2.79/mo for 2 years → renews at $13.99/mo
Fix: Set a calendar reminder to cancel before auto-renewal. Or cancel immediately after subscribing — most providers let you keep the remaining time on your plan.
2. "Free VPN" Traps
Free VPNs almost never work in China because they lack obfuscation technology. Worse, many free VPNs:
- Sell your browsing data to third parties
- Inject ads into your web traffic
- Have weaker encryption that the GFW detects easily
- Limit bandwidth to unusable speeds (500MB–2GB per month)
Exception: Proton VPN offers a legitimate free tier with unlimited bandwidth and strong encryption. However, it doesn't include the Stealth protocol needed for China — that's only on paid plans.
3. Short-Term Plans Are Expensive
If you buy month-to-month, you'll pay 3–7× more per month than a 2-year plan:
| VPN | Monthly Rate | 2-Year Rate | You Save |
|---|---|---|---|
| Surfshark | $15.45 | $1.99 | 87% |
| ExpressVPN | $13.99 | $2.79 | 80% |
| NordVPN | $12.99 | $3.09 | 76% |
| CyberGhost | $12.99 | $2.11 | 84% |
Strategy: Buy a 1-year or 2-year plan even for a short trip. Use the 30-day money-back guarantee if you only need it for 2 weeks — cancel and get a full refund.
4. Payment Processing Fees
Some providers charge extra for certain payment methods:
- Credit card: Usually no extra fee
- PayPal: Usually no extra fee
- Alipay: No extra fee (ZoogVPN, LightningX)
- Cryptocurrency: May have network transaction fees (paid to the blockchain, not the VPN)
- Gift cards: Resellers may add a markup
VPN + eSIM Combo: Do You Need Both?
An increasingly popular alternative is using a travel eSIM with built-in VPN instead of (or alongside) a traditional VPN:
eSIM with Built-In VPN (Bypasses GFW Automatically)
| eSIM | Built-in VPN | Works on WiFi? | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trip.com eSIM | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | From $0.49/day |
| Saily | ✅ Virtual Location | ✅ Yes | From $2.49/GB |
| Klook eSIM | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | From ~$0.80 |
| Airalo | ❌ Roaming bypass only | ❌ No | From $4.50 |
The trade-off: An eSIM with built-in VPN is simpler (no app to install, no subscription to manage) but only protects mobile data traffic. If you use hotel WiFi, you still need a VPN app — unless the eSIM includes a true VPN (like Saily's Virtual Location).
Best combo for China: Travel eSIM (mobile data + GFW bypass on mobile) + VPN app (hotel WiFi protection + access to more server locations).
FAQ
Can I buy a VPN with Alipay?
Yes, but only from select providers. As of 2026, ZoogVPN, LightningX VPN, and Astrill VPN accept Alipay. Major providers like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark do not.
What's the cheapest VPN that actually works in China?
Surfshark at $1.99/mo (2-year plan) is the cheapest reliable option, but it requires manual connection setup for China. ZoogVPN at $2.49/mo (2-year plan) is the cheapest that accepts Alipay. LightningX VPN at ~$4.80/mo is the cheapest monthly option with Alipay support.
Can I pay for a VPN from inside China?
Yes, through mirror websites (NordVPN: nordwangluo.com, Surfshark: surfshark.co.uk, ZoogVPN: zoog.pro, LightningX: slaclouds.com). If your provider accepts Alipay (ZoogVPN, LightningX), you can pay directly. Otherwise, use a credit card on the mirror site, cryptocurrency, or have a friend outside China make the purchase.
Do I need to pay for a VPN if I have a China eSIM?
It depends. Many travel eSIMs (Trip.com, Klook, Saily) bypass the Great Firewall on mobile data through international roaming. But they don't protect you on hotel WiFi. If you want full protection across all networks, you need both an eSIM and a VPN app.
What's the best VPN setup for a family traveling to China?
Surfshark — unlimited simultaneous devices on a single subscription, $1.99/mo. Everyone in the family installs the app on their phone and laptop. One account covers all devices. Pair with a router VPN if you're staying in an Airbnb with a compatible router.
Can I get a refund if the VPN doesn't work in China?
Most providers offer a 30-day money-back guarantee. If the VPN doesn't work, contact customer support within 30 days of purchase for a full refund. The exceptions are Astrill (7-day trial only, no money-back guarantee) and LetsVPN (limited refund policy).
Is it cheaper to buy VPN before or after arriving in China?
Before. Prices are the same, but buying before is dramatically easier — VPN websites are blocked in China, and you may need to use mirror sites or workarounds to purchase. Buy and set up everything before your flight.
How much does a VPN for China cost per day?
For a 2-week trip: anywhere from $0.34/day (LightningX VPN, $4.80/month) to $2.00/day (ExpressVPN, $13.99/month). Budget around $5–15 total for a short trip using a monthly plan with a refund.
Related Guides:
- Best VPN for China 2026: The Definitive Guide
- VPN for China by Device: Complete Setup Guide
- How to Set Up a VPN in China: Step-by-Step
- Is VPN Legal in China?
- VPN Protocols That Work in China
- VPN Troubleshooting: Not Working in China?
- VPN Alternatives: eSIM vs VPN for China