Despite being in the minority, the Mac operating system is undoubtedly innovative. With a stylish design, intuitive user experience, and a mass of exclusive software, macOS takes an incredible stance against the leading OS, Windows. A combination of Apple’s software and hardware means Mac devices can benefit from seamless synchronisation, pre-installed apps, and even built-in security. But is that really enough?
Many users have been led to believe that extra security precautions aren’t necessary for Mac devices since macOS is a much lesser target for cybercriminals compared to the leading OS, Windows. The truth is, Mac users are still at risk of falling victim to dangerous threats such as malware, phishing attempts, adware, and ransomware. If you want to protect yourself and your device from these dangers, then you need a VPN.
Not sure which VPN provider to choose? We’ve handpicked three of the best VPNs for macOS based on their security, price, and performance, so you can confidently select the right provider for your needs. Let’s take a further look into the best VPNs for Mac in 2022!
The best VPNs for Mac quick guide
- ExpressVPN – Best overall choice
- NordVPN – Most secure
- Surfshark – Budget-friendly
Try out ExpressVPN* for your Mac now!
Why do I need a VPN for my Mac?
Macs, among other Apple devices, are renowned for their security, but not for the reasons you may think. Due to its smaller operating system market share, macOS is well-known for being less vulnerable to common cyberattacks compared to Windows. However, this is not a result of Apple’s advanced security features, but instead due to cybercriminals being less likely to target macOS devices. Since Windows has a significantly larger user base, hackers will yield a greater return by creating malware and phishing attempts, especially for this OS.
Although this seems like an advantage for Macs, it has actually led to much misinformation surrounding the security of these devices. Many users believe that they’re protected from malware and hackers but are actually just as susceptible to these threats as Windows users.
Despite the number of cyberattacks being targeted at Mac devices being drastically smaller than Windows devices, it still puts millions of users at risk. Cybercriminals are far from rare and are constantly advancing their technology to design malicious software that can cause irreversible damage to not only Windows devices, but also macOS devices.
If you want to prevent malware, phishing attempts, adware, ransomware, and other threats, then you need a VPN for your Mac. By creating an encrypted tunnel, a VPN (Virtual Private Network) can secure your traffic and prevent hackers from deciphering or intercepting it. Additionally, when you connect to a VPN server, your IP address is completely hidden from your ISP, third parties, and any websites you visit. This reduces your digital footprint and allows you to browse the web anonymously, which will further improve your online safety.
Many VPNs come equipped with built-in ad-blocking technology which can protect you from phishing attempts as well as intrusive ads. Blocking ads also speeds up page loading times on your Mac, ensuring a much more pleasurable experience.
Aside from added security, VPNs serve a number of other uses. For instance, if you want to watch geo-blocked content from popular streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney Plus, and Hulu, then a VPN is the perfect solution.
Since your real IP address is hidden when you use a VPN, the IP of the server that you’ve connected to will be shown to any website or app you visit. This means if you connect to a VPN server that’s based in the US, then you’ll appear to have a US IP address. Using this trick, you can spoof your location to stream any geo-restricted content from around the world without even leaving your house. This also works if you want to queue in other region’s lobbies when online gaming and avoid ISP blocks! You can find out other uses for VPNs in 2022 here!
Our top recommend VPNs for Mac in 2022
Choosing a suitable provider is often the hardest part of using a VPN. With so many choices available with each claiming to be better than the last, deciding on a single VPN can be challenging. We understand the struggle, so we’ve done all the work for you. By researching a wide range of providers and taking into important considerations such as their compatibility with macOS, selection of features, and price point, we can narrow down to just three of the best VPNs for Mac. Each of these choices provides users with exceptional speeds, robust security, no-logs policies, and much more! Find out more about our top recommended providers –
- ExpressVPN
Our number one VPN for Mac is none other than ExpressVPN. This VPN goes above and beyond when it comes to security, reliability, and speed. If you’re looking for the best all-around VPN for your Mac, then ExpressVPN is right for you.
With military-grade AES-356 encryption to encrypt all user traffic, ExpressVPN can ensure your online security and anonymity. On top of this, users are provided with split tunnelling support, a network lock kill switch, and private DNS, for added security and peace of mind. ExpressVPN also has a threat manager which automatically blocks websites and apps from communicating with trackers and other malicious third parties. There’s even a specialised Lightway protocol that provides a faster and more secure VPN experience.
ExpressVPN is fully compatible with macOS and works on all Apple desktops and laptops including MacBook, MacBook Air, iMac, iPad Pro, Mac Pro, and Mac Mini. Users can have up to five simultaneous connections with a single ExpressVPN account. Additionally, this VPN provides unlimited bandwidth, so you can download or stream as much content as you want without facing any caps.
For any assistance with setting up or using your VPN, contact ExpressVPN’s helpful 24/7 customer support team. Alternatively, you can check out the extensive knowledge base for setup tutorials, guides, and FAQs. Here you’ll find a range of macOS resources including a Mac setup guide.
Try out ExpressVPN* on your Mac device for free for 30-days with their money-back guarantee!
- NordVPN
With millions of customers around the globe, including many macOS users, NordVPN is one of the most popular providers in the market. And with thousands of worldwide servers, super-fast connection speeds, and industry-leading security, it’s clear to see why. NordVPN is ideal for users looking to stay safe online without compromising on their Mac’s performance.
It’s safe to say that NordVPN is best known for its robust security. With the near-uncrackable AES-256 encryption topped with various security features such as obfuscated servers, multi-factor authentication, DNS leak protection, dedicated IP, and split tunnelling support, users can enjoy a threat-free online experience. This VPN even gives users the option to add an extra layer of security by routing their traffic through two VPN servers instead of one using the double protection feature. NordVPN also provides a built-in ad-blocking technology to shield your Mac device from phishing attempts, malware, and infected websites.
NordVPN, of course, offers native apps for macOS, along with other major operating systems. Users are permitted up to six simulations connections, and if they use one slot to connect their router, then they can protect all devices under their home network at no extra cost.
This provider has an incredibly knowledgeable 24/7 customer support team that can answer any questions or guide you through the setup of the NordVPN client on Mac devices. There’s also an informative knowledge base that’s packed with how-tos, FAQs, and setup guides. If that’s not enough, then head to NordVPN’s YouTube channel for easy-to-follow video tutorials!
Try out NordVPN* on your Mac device for free for 30-days with their money-back guarantee!
- Surfshark
With a fantastic value-for-money plan that’s still packed with helpful features, Surfshark is the perfect choice for Mac users who are on a budget. Not only will you ensure your security online for a low price, but you can also enjoy high-quality streams, fast browsing speeds, and ad-free websites.
Surfshark uses military-grade AES-256 encryption alongside a range of security features including camouflage mode, pirate DNS with leak protection, a kill switch, and a NoBorders mode. Additionally, this VPN provides users with a built-in ad-blocker known as CleanWeb. This tool can speed up your browsing experience by blocking all ads on browsers and apps. CleanWeb will work automatically to help you dodge adware, phishing attempts, and malware-infected websites
Surfshark allows for unlimited simultaneous connections, so you can secure every single device you own at the same time. Users can also endlessly stream on their Mac devices as this VPN provides unlimited bandwidth. Surfshark is fully compatible with all macOS devices and has a beginner-friendly interface that‘s easy to navigate.
Surfshark’s 24/7 customer support team can guarantee swift and detailed replies that can help you out with any issues. You can also check out the provider’s comprehensive knowledge base for tutorials, tips, and tricks. There’s even a Mac section for setup guides and FAQs.
Try out Surfshark* on your Mac device for free for 30-days with their money-back guarantee!