Best VPN to unblock Facebook

Many schools, colleges, and workplaces block Facebook in an effort to limit bandwidth use and to make sure people concentrate on their core tasks without distraction. Plus, some countries like China, North Korea, and Qatar ban or restrict the use of Facebook and Messenger. Luckily it’s easy enough to bypass blocks and bans by installing a VPN.

With a VPN, or Virtual Private Network, you can encrypt all the traffic flowing to and from your device and tunnel it via an intermediary server. This not only helps you bypass restrictions but also ensures that your online browsing activity remains private and secure.

Best VPNs to unblock Facebook anywhere:

  1. NordVPN: Our first choice for unblocking Facebook anywhere. A reliable provider that makes no compromises on speed or privacy. Thousands of servers around the globe are great at unblocking sites and services. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.
  2. Surfshark: Best budget VPN for unblocking Facebook. A solid all-around performer that puts major emphasis on user security. Keeps no logs and allows any number of simultaneous connections.
  3. IPVanish: Speedy and secure service you can rely on to access Facebook from anywhere. Apps have good privacy features and are remote-control friendly.
  4. ExpressVPN: With always-on obfuscation and servers in over 105 countries, this provider excels in unblocking geo-restricted sites and censored services.
  5. PureVPN: Choice of US servers to bypass Facebook blocks at work or abroad. Fast speeds for streaming, easy to use. Allows 10 simultaneous devices.
  6. CyberGhost: A beginner-friendly option with easy-to-use apps, impressive speeds, and a huge network of servers to unblock Facebook from anywhere.
  7. ProtonVPN: Advanced VPN with strong privacy levels. Secure for bypassing Facebook restrictions. Servers in 117+ countries. 24/7 live chat support. 
  8. Private Internet Access: Impressive unblocking capabilities with good server speeds and easy-to-use apps with a network presence in 91 countries.

TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for Facebook.

Testing criteria for VPNs that unblock Facebook

There are a lot of VPN providers on the market, but they don’t all provide the same level of service. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the best VPNs that work flawlessly with Facebook. Our rankings are based on tests in the following areas:

  • Speed: A fast VPN helps ensure a smooth Facebook experience. We found the quickest providers by carrying out multiple speed tests while connected to each VPN’s US servers.
  • Network capabilities: We looked at the number of US and global server locations each provider had available. We also checked whether they were able to effectively disguise VPN traffic.
  • Security and privacy: To avoid your online activities being detected by your school or workplace, it’s a good idea to choose a well-fortified VPN service. We used 16 metrics to determine which VPNs offered the strongest security and privacy.
  • Ease of use: If you’re trying to access Facebook on the sly, then you’re going to want a faff-free VPN. To find the most user-friendly services, we evaluated providers against 10 ease-of-use criteria.
  • Value for money: Saving money is great, but not if it means you get a low grade service in return. We used eight different metrics to work out which VPNs were worth their subscription fees.

You can read more about how we test, score and rank our VPNs further on in this article. For now, let’s look at the VPNs that made the list.

Facebook VPNs compared

We’ve researched and compared the most important features of the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for Facebook.

No valueNordVPNSurfsharkIPVanishExpressVPNPureVPNCyberGhostProton VPNPrivate Internet Access
WebsiteNordVPN.comSurfshark.comIPVanish.comExpressVPN.comPureVPN.comCyberghost.comProtonVPN.comPrivateInternetAccess.com
Rating for Facebook12345678
Streaming reliabilityExcellentExcellentGoodExcellentGoodExcellentGoodGood
Devices SupportedWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, LinuxWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TVWindows, MacOS, iOS, AndroidWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVs, RoutersWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Smart TVs, Chromebook, RoutersWindows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, AndroidWindows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, Android, Chromebook Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux
Avg Speed (Mbps)100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps
Activity logs No identifying data No identifying data
Best deal (per month)$3.09
Up to 77% off 2 year plans + 3 months free
$2.19
86% OFF + 3 months free
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$4.99
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$2.19
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The best VPNs for unblocking Facebook

Here are the best VPNs for unblocking Facebook from anywhere:

1. NordVPN

NordVPN Mar 2025 unblocks FacebookTested Mar 2025

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • Background FireTV

VPN Ratings:

Overall score: 9.4 / 10
Ease of use: 9.6 / 10
Network capabilities: 8.5 / 10
Security & privacy: 9.5 / 10
US speed testing: 10.0 / 10
Value for money: 9.5 / 10

Website:  www.NordVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

NordVPN is our first choice VPN for Facebook, whether in a restricted country or on a restricted network such as at work or on campus at school. It’s among the fastest VPNs we’ve tested and has lots of options for power users who want an enhanced browsing experience.

In our tests, the provider consistently exceeded 200 Mbps. This is fast enough to download an HD movie in three minutes and certainly fast enough for anything you’ll find on Facebook.

NordVPN can be categorized as a logless VPN service because user data is simply not stored. This policy has served it well in the past—authorities sent multiple requests for data, but there wasn’t anything on internal servers that could identify users.

All internet traffic is encrypted via 256-bit AES and 2,048-bit DH keys. DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leak protection are enabled by default.

WebRTC leak test.
NordVPN passed the WebRTC leak test.

There’s a wide list of servers, with over 7,400 spread across 118+ countries. You can also choose from a selection of specialty servers. These include servers for torrenting or accessing the Tor network.

NordVPN's selection of specialty servers.
NordVPN’s obfuscated servers work in China.

Apps for both Android and iOS are available, as well as a desktop client for Windows, Linux, and macOS. A single subscription grants access to ten devices.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You need consistent speeds above 200 Mbps
  • You want access to obfuscated servers that work in restrictive countries
  • You need a service with a proven no-logs policy
  • You want a VPN with robust desktop applications
  • You’re looking for strong WebRTC leak protection

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You need more than 10 simultaneous connections for a large household

BEST VPN FOR FACEBOOK:NordVPN is our first choice. Impeccable speeds and works well with Facebook wherever it is blocked. Strong security features and allows up to 10 devices to be used simultaneously from one account. It includes a 30-day money-back guarantee, making it risk-free.

Read our full review of NordVPN.

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2. Surfshark

Surfshark unblocks facebookTested Mar 2025

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

VPN Ratings:

Overall score: 9.3 / 10
Ease of use: 8.9 / 10
Network capabilities: 9.1 / 10
Security & privacy: 9.5 / 10
US speed testing: 9.4 / 10
Value for money: 9.7 / 10

Website:  www.Surfshark.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

Surfshark is a great budget VPN choice for anyone looking to unblock Facebook. This VPN has 3,200+ servers spread across 100 countries and provides fantastic speeds.

In our tests, the provider averaged 197.6 Mbps, which is more than 53 Mbps faster than the combined average speed of the other tested providers.

This makes Surfshark suitable for anything you can think of, including streaming, gaming, and torrenting. It’s great for Facebook and other social media apps like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok.

Furthermore, the provider can access all the most stubborn streaming platforms—including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer—from anywhere in the world. There’s no connection limit, allowing you to protect all your devices simultaneously.

Streaming Amazon Prime Video.
Streaming Amazon Prime Video using Surfshark.

This VPN keeps your traffic safe from snoopers using 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and protection against WebRTC, DNS, and IPv6 leaks. It can also block ads and malware automatically and can bypass the strict internet restrictions in countries like China.

Surfshark's NoBorders mode.
Surfshark’s NoBorders mode disguises VPN traffic as regular internet traffic.

Surfshark doesn’t log any data that could be used to identify you, but if you’re worried about privacy, you can sign up almost completely anonymously by paying in cryptocurrency. 24/7 support is available over email and live chat should you have any issues.

Surfshark provides apps for macOS, Windows, Linux, Android, and iOS devices. It also works with supported internet routers but must be configured manually.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You want the most affordable option that still delivers excellent performance
  • You need unlimited device connections
  • You want a NoBorders mode to disguise VPN traffic in restricted countries
  • You need built-in ad and malware blocking capabilities

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You need the absolute fastest speeds for Facebook

BEST BUDGET PROVIDER:Surfshark has strong security features and a no-logs policy to keep you safe online. It’s versatile, too, with excellent unblocking ability, unlimited connections, and fast speeds. A 30-day money-back guarantee is included.

Read our full review of Surfshark here.

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3. IPVanish

IPVanish unblocks facebookTested Mar 2025

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

VPN Ratings:

Overall score: 8.2 / 10
Ease of use: 9.4 / 10
Network capabilities: 5.4 / 10
Security & privacy: 8.9 / 10
US speed testing: 7.9 / 10
Value for money: 9.6 / 10

Website:  www.IPVanish.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

IPVanish checks all the boxes when it comes to an affordable, fast VPN equipped with rigid encryption standards. It’ll do its job quietly and efficiently with little to no interruption while you scroll your Facebook newsfeed.

Speed-wise, the provider performed solidly in all three of our tests. Note how consistent the results are in the chart below.

Overall, IPVanish’s average speed of 179.1 Mbps was 32 Mbps faster than the combined average speed of the other tested providers.

The company is an example of a completely logless VPN. This means it’s almost impossible for your activity to be traced back to you because IPVanish simply refrains from storing any user data at all.

As for encryption standards, IPVanish uses 256-bit encryption on the OpenVPN protocol by default, SHA512 authentication, and a DHE-RSA 2,048-bit key exchange with perfect forward secrecy.

There’s an internet kill switch included—meaning web traffic will never slide back to a decrypted status even if the connection drops—as well as obfuscation if needed.

IPVanish's Scramble function.
Users must select the OpenVPN protocol if they want to obfuscate their traffic.

IPVanish has 2,400+ servers spread across 140 locations worldwide, and it allows unlimited simultaneous connections. Furthermore, there are apps for both Android and iOS, as well as desktop support for Windows and macOS.

IPVanish server locations.
User’s can choose a server from a map on the app’s dashboard.

Many users find it an excellent VPN for Kodi because it allows them to download the Android APK directly to their device. The interface is also remote-control friendly for Kodi devices that lack a keyboard and mouse.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You need a remote control-friendly interface that works well with Kodi devices
  • You need unlimited simultaneous connections
  • You prefer a well-organized and user-friendly interface
  • You want a VPN with SHA512 authentication and perfect forward secrecy

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You need cryptocurrency payment options for anonymity

FAST AND RELIABLE:IPVanish has a good network of servers that achieve excellent speeds. Strong security and privacy features. Thirty-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of IPVanish.

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4. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN unblocks facebookTested Mar 2025

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

VPN Ratings:

Overall score: 7.7 / 10
Ease of use: 9.3 / 10
Network capabilities: 9.4 / 10
Security & privacy: 9.2 / 10
US speed testing: 2.1 / 10
Value for money: 8.4 / 10

Website:  www.ExpressVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

ExpressVPN is popular with online privacy enthusiasts because it combines military-grade encryption protocols with a fast, efficient product. This makes unblocking Facebook and Facebook Messenger at school, work, or while abroad very easy. The provider also excels at accessing geo-restricted content from Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.

Streaming Disney Plus.
Streaming Disney Plus using ExpressVPN.

In our tests, ExpressVPN achieved speeds between 105.84 Mbps and 114.81 Mbps. This is fast enough to watch videos on Facebook or make Messenger video calls.

There’s a robust selection of servers to choose from—over 3,000 servers spread across 105+ countries. Users can search for a city or country or simply scroll through the server list.

Encryption standards are hardy—the company leverages OpenVPN with 256-bit AES as the default. An SHA-512 hashing algorithm identifies 4,096-bit DHE-RSA keys. In layman’s terms, these are designed to keep your data secure. Individual IP addresses are not recorded.

Embedded within the product is a ‘network lock,’ which acts as a kill switch to temporarily block internet access if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly, thereby adding an extra layer of security.

ExpressVPN's Network Lock.
Network Lock is easy to enable or disable.

A single subscription grants access to eight devices simultaneously — making it a handy option to split the overall bill with friends. Apps for both Android and iOS are available, as well as desktop clients for Linux, Windows, and macOS.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You need always-on obfuscation (no manual configuration needed)
  • You want the widest global server coverage
  • You need strong network capabilities for bypassing geo-restrictions
  • You want a VPN with feature parity across all platforms

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You’re on a tight budget

PRIVACY-FIRST VPN:ExpressVPN performs well when it comes to unblocking restricted content and sites. It has a large server network that is optimized for fast connections. User-friendly apps for all operating systems. There’s a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Here’s our review of ExpressVPN.

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5. PureVPN

PureVPN unblocks facebookTested Mar 2025

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

VPN Ratings:

Overall score: 7.6 / 10
Ease of use: 9.1 / 10
Network capabilities: 7.6 / 10
Security & privacy: 8.7 / 10
US speed testing: 4.5 / 10
Value for money: 8.1 / 10

Website:  www.PureVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 31 DAYS

PureVPN is a particularly useful option for users who need a Facebook VPN that won’t break the bank. Despite being cheaper than most, it offers apps for all platforms with everything needed to use social media discreetly at work or on campus. It can also provide confidential access to Facebook in countries where it is blocked, including China, Iran, Myanmar, Russia, and Turkmenistan.

PureVPN’s fast speeds make it ideal for unblocking and making VoIP calls on Facebook Messenger in countries with strict VoIP regulations, like the UAE and Saudi Arabia. In our tests, the provider averaged 139.1 Mbps. 

Thanks to its port forwarding feature, the VPN is suitable for torrenting. However, bear in mind that it is an optional add-on that costs a few bucks extra.

With servers in 65+ countries, PureVPN makes it easy to access not just Facebook — but countless other social media sites, including Instagram, Twitch, Discord, Reddit, X/Twitter, Snapchat, and others. The provider also works well with most of the big-name streaming platforms, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney Plus.

Streaming Netflix.
Streaming Netflix using PureVPN.

PureVPN’s apps provide AES encryption, a kill switch, and built-in leak prevention. This guarantees that all your online activities remain private at all times.

IP leak test.
PureVPN didn’t leak our UK-based IP address while we were connected to one of its US servers.

It also makes the VPN suitable for protecting against hackers on public wi-fi. You can explore its ability to access Facebook using the 31-day money-back guarantee.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You need to make VoIP calls via Facebook Messenger in countries with strict regulations
  • You need port forwarding capabilities for torrenting
  • You’re looking for a budget option with good international coverage

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You need responsive customer support

LOW-COST STREAMING:PureVPN has a choice of servers in the US that work to bypass Facebook blocks at work or abroad. Fast speeds for streaming Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max, and many others. Servers available in 65+ countries. Strong encryption means you can use Facebook privately at work or in school. Easy to use on all devices. 31-day money-back guarantee.

Find out more in our PureVPN review.

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6. CyberGhost

CyberGhost unblocks facebookTested Mar 2025

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

VPN Ratings:

Overall score: 7.3 / 10
Ease of use: 9.1 / 10
Network capabilities: 4.3 / 10
Security & privacy: 8.9 / 10
US speed testing: 4.9 / 10
Value for money: 9.5 / 10

Website:  www.Cyberghost.com

Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS

CyberGhost is designed to be beginner and user-friendly, so it might appeal to users who want a quick social media fix.

The CyberGhost dashboard.
The CyberGhost app makes it obvious how to establish a connection.

It’s also great for streaming, and has a list of servers that name the platforms that they work best with.

CyberGhost's streaming servers.
CyberGhost’s streaming servers take the guesswork out of finding a server that works with a particular streaming platform.

CyberGhost uses robust 256-bit AES encryption and has several connection protocols available. There are more than 10,000 servers in its network, which are spread across 100 countries. This means that unblocking Facebook from anywhere doesn’t pose a challenge.

We tested CyberGhost’s US servers to find out what sort of speeds users could expect when connected. As you can see from the results below, the provider was consistently quick.

Overall, CyberGhost averaged 143.10 Mbps — which is comfortably fast enough for all day-to-day tasks.

The provider allows simultaneous access to seven devices on a single plan and offers a generous 45-day money-back guarantee. The company supports both Android and iOS, and there’s native software for Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You’re a beginner who wants an extremely user-friendly experience
  • You need dedicated streaming servers that are clearly labeled
  • You want a large server network (10,000+ servers in 100 countries)

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You need a VPN that works in China

BEST FOR NOVICE USERS:CyberGhost has a simple set up and has no issues unblocking Facebook. Great privacy, zero logs, and DNS leak protection. Has a generous 45-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of CyberGhost.

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7. ProtonVPN

Proton VPN unblocks facebookTested Mar 2025

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

VPN Ratings:

Overall score: 7.1 / 10
Ease of use: 8.8 / 10
Network capabilities: 5.0 / 10
Security & privacy: 9.3 / 10
US speed testing: 5.1 / 10
Value for money: 7.4 / 10

Website:  www.ProtonVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

ProtonVPN stands out as a secure and reliable VPN for unblocking Facebook, whether at work, on campus, or visiting a country where Western social media sites have been restricted.

It has rock-solid AES encryption, and its security features also make it ideal for making VoIP calls on Facebook Messenger in countries with strict VoIP regulations, like the UAE.

It’s also fast. While connected to its US servers, we recorded speeds of up to 153.67 Mbps. This makes ProtonVPN suitable for a variety of online activities, including streaming in 4K and gaming. 

The VPN comes loaded with a suite of robust privacy and security features. These include 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and an extensively audited no-logs policy. The addition of obfuscation, multi-hop connections, and Tor over VPN options further enhance user privacy, to let you access Facebook safely in countries like Iran, Russia, and Uganda. Just bear in mind that the VPN does not officially support users in China.

ProtonVPN's connection settings.
Choosing the Stealth protocol will obfuscate traffic so that it can evade VPN blocks.

ProtonVPN’s support for split tunneling and port forwarding makes it a solid all-rounder that is perfect for users interested in torrenting. Its large network extends to 117 countries, allowing you to get an IP address on any continent, and, in our tests, it worked to watch BBC iPlayer, Hulu, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, and tons of other popular international streaming services.

Streaming Hulu.
Streaming Hulu using ProtonVPN.

Apps are available for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux, and you can connect up to 10 simultaneous devices. This makes it a decent option for people who own many devices or larger families in need of a VPN — whether at home or on vacation. Live chat support is available on its website, and you can try the VPN risk-free using its 30-day money-back guarantee.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You need Tor over VPN and multi-hop connections
  • You want to use Facebook in countries like Iran, Russia, or Uganda
  • You need split tunneling capabilities

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You need a VPN that works in China
  • You’re a beginner looking for simplified settings

ADVANCED VPN:ProtonVPN is an advanced VPN that provides strong privacy levels. Secure for bypassing social media blocks at work, or using Facebook in countries where it is restricted. Works to unblock VoIP on Facebook Messenger. Port forwarding features for torrenting. Has servers in 117+ countries, including the US, to watch Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and others. Thirty-day money-back guarantee.

Find out more in our ProtonVPN review.

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8. Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access unblocks facebookTested Mar 2025

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • Background FireTV

VPN Ratings:

Overall score: 6.9 / 10
Ease of use: 9.6 / 10
Network capabilities: 6.2 / 10
Security & privacy: 9.3 / 10
US speed testing: 1.0 / 10
Value for money: 8.2 / 10

Website:  www.PrivateInternetAccess.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

Private Internet Access unblocks Facebook and allows you to access the social media site anywhere. PIA has a network of RAM-only servers in 91+ countries. Dedicated streaming servers are available in the UK, the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, Finland, Sweden, the US, Canada, Australia, and Japan. These work to access platforms such as Disney Plus, Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and more.

Streaming Amazon Prime Video.
Streaming Amazon Prime Video using PIA.

In our tests, PIA was the slowest provider in the list. However, it’s average speed of 88.5 Mbps is still more than fast enough for anything you can do on Facebook, including using Messenger for live video calls.

PIA is a highly respected provider with a strong focus on privacy and security. It’s a logless VPN service, which means your information isn’t stored or monitored. All internet traffic is encrypted with 256-bit AES encryption and 2,048-bit RSA keys. DNS leak protection and an automatic kill switch are enabled by default.

The desktop client is available for Windows and macOS, and there are easy-to-use apps for Android and iOS.

A single subscription allows you to use unlimited devices simultaneously. PIA also accepts Bitcoin as payment, adding an extra anonymity layer. Try PIA risk-free for 30 days, thanks to the money-back guarantee.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You want unlimited simultaneous device connections
  • You need excellent privacy with RAM-only servers

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You need the fastest speeds
  • You’re concerned about Five Eyes jurisdiction

ADJUSTABLE ENCRYPTION:Private Internet Access unblocks Facebook easily with servers in over 80 locations. It has apps for most platforms, and you can try it risk-free with the 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of Private Internet Access.

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Our Methodology: Choosing the best VPNs for Facebook

Selecting the best VPN for Facebook might seem straightforward, but it’s actually quite tricky. Hundreds of providers are on the market, all claiming to be the best. We narrowed down the choices by testing providers in the following areas:

Speed

A fast VPN is essential for accessing Facebook — particularly if you’re partial to live streaming. To find the fastest providers, we carried out three speed tests for each VPN: one in the morning, one at noon, and one in the afternoon.

Measurements were taken using the desktop version of the Ookla speed-testing app while connected to each VPN’s US servers. Our base connection speed was rate-limited to 250 Mbps to better reflect the speed of the average user in the US (where the median broadband download speed is 279.93 Mbps).

The results for each provider were summed, averaged, and then converted to a relative score out of 10.

As you can see from the chart, NordVPN was the fastest provider overall. Surfshark was also notably quick, with a score of 9.4. Either provider would be a good choice for users who want to maximise their connection speeds while using a VPN.

Network capabilities

We started by scoring providers on the number of US server locations they had. Lots of locations mean you’re more likely to find a fast server nearby. Next, we scored providers on the number of countries they supported. If you’re not in the US, it’s worth finding a provider with servers close to you for the best speeds. Finally, we scored VPNs on whether they were able to effectively obfuscate user’s traffic so that it could bypass blocks in countries such as China.

The scores for the above metrics were summed and averaged to give us a score out of 10 for each provider. You can see how they compared below.

ExpressVPN’s score of 9.4 was the highest overall, though Surfshark wasn’t far behind with a score of 9.1. Both providers work in China and have a large number of server options in the US and globally.

Security and privacy

A good VPN will encrypt your traffic to prevent your ISP or government agencies from snooping. We only recommend VPNs that use strong encryption and perform well against the criteria in the table below.

FeatureNordVPNSurfsharkIPVanishExpressVPNPureVPNCyberGhostProton VPNPIA
Activity logsNo activity logsNo activity logsNo activity logsNo activity logsNo activity logsNo activity logsNo activity logsNo activity logs
IP logsNo IP logsNo IP logsNo IP logsNo IP logsNo IP logsNo IP logsNo IP logsNo IP logs
EncryptionAES-128 or higherAES-128 or higherAES-128 or higherAES-128 or higherAES-128 or higherAES-128 or higherAES-128 or higherAES-128 or higher
AuthenticationSHA-384SHA-512SHA-256SHA-512SHA-256SHA-256SHA-512SHA-256
Keys4096-bit4096-bit4096-bit4096-bit4096-bit4096-bit2048-bit4096-bit
Perfect Forward SecrecyYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
DNS leak protectionYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
IPv6 leak protectionYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Private DNSYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Torrenting allowedYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Kill switchAll platformsMobile app-levelAll platformsMobile app-levelSome platformsAll platformsAll platformsAll platforms
HQ outside 9 eyesYesNoYesYesYesYesYesNo
ObfuscationStealthStealthStealthAutomaticAutomaticStealthStealthStealth
Supported protocolsOwn protocolSecure protocols onlySecure protocols onlyOwn protocolSecure protocols onlySecure protocols onlySecure protocols onlySecure protocols only
Anonymous payment optionsMultipleMultipleNoneMultipleOneMultipleOneMultiple
Additional security featuresYesYesNoNoNoNoYesYes

Each of these criteria is assigned a score, which we sum to generate an overall score out of 10 for each provider. This makes quick comparison easier.

NordVPN and Surfshark scored equally highly, with 9.5 apiece. Both providers have all the features in place to keep your online activities safe from prying eyes. ProtonVPN and PIA are good alternatives.

Ease of use

Less time spent with VPNs means more time with Facebook. To keep your VPN interactions to a minimum, we looked for providers that did well when evaluated against the ease-of-use criteria below.

FeatureNordVPNSurfsharkIPVanishExpressVPNPureVPNCyberGhostProton VPNPIA
Apps for all major platformsYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Novice-friendly designYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Ease of signup (reviewer to score)5 (easy)45 (easy)5 (easy)3445 (easy)
Router supportStandardStandardStandardAppAppStandardStandardStandard
Unblocking consistencyGreatGreatGreatGenerally worksGreatGreatGreatGreat
Task specific serversYesNoNoNoYesYesYesYes
Network60+ countries60+ countries60+ countries60+ countries60+ countries60+ countries60+ countries60+ countries
Ease of cancellationVery easyVery easyVery easyVery easyVery easyVery easyVery easyVery easy
InterfaceWell-organisedA little clutteredWell-organisedWell-organisedA little clutteredA little clutteredTakes some getting used toWell-organised
Feature parityMost features available on all versionsMost features available on all versionsMost features available on all versionsAll features available on all versionsMost features available on all versionsMost features available on all versionsMost features available on all versionsMost features available on all versions

If you’re feeling lazy, check out the following bar chart instead. This is a condensed version of the previous table, and involved us assigning scores to each metric and then summing the results.

NordVPN and PIA each scored 9.6, suggesting that they have the easiest to use services overall. In truth, all the providers performed well, so you’re unlikely to have any problems whichever you go for.

Value for money

VPN subscriptions vary in price, though the more expensive don’t necessarily provide a better service. To find which VPNs were worth their monthly fees, we evaluated them against the value-for-money metrics shown in the table below.

FeatureNordVPNSurfsharkIPVanishExpressVPNPureVPNCyberGhostProton VPNPIA
Money-back guaranteeYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Connection limit6+UnlimitedUnlimited6+6+6+6+Unlimited
Subscription terms3 terms+3 terms+3 terms+3 terms+3 terms+3 terms+3 terms+3 terms+
Sale frequencyFrequently running dealsFrequently running dealsFrequently running dealsFrequently running dealsFrequently running dealsFrequently running dealsFrequently running dealsFrequently running deals
Monthly pricing<$13<$10<$13$15+<$13<$13<$10<$13
Lowest price<$5<$5<$5$5+<$5<$5$5+<$5
Free trial availableYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Student discountYesYesYesYesNoYesNoNo

Each metric was scored, and then the scores summed. This gave us an overall score out of 10 that we could use to easily compare providers.

As you can see from the chart above, Surfshark’s score of 9.7 was the highest. IPVanish also performed well, with a score of 9.6. Both providers allow unlimited device connections and have competitively priced long-term subscriptions.

How to unblock Facebook anywhere with a VPN

Once you’ve chosen a suitable VPN, unblocking Facebook couldn’t be simpler. Follow the steps below to set up your VPN and gain access to your social media wherever you are.

Here’s how to unblock Facebook with a VPN (from anywhere):

  1. Pick the VPN that’s best suited for you. We recommend NordVPN.
  2. Navigate through the options and select a plan.
  3. Download the companion apps to suit your devices.
  4. Open the VPN app, log in, and select a server outside your workplace or school, or in a country where Facebook is not restricted.
  5. Once the connection is established, open Facebook and use it like you normally would.
  6. If Facebook is still not working with your VPN, try clearing your browser’s cache and try again.

If you’re still having problems accessing Facebook, check out our VPN Common Problems Troubleshooting guide.

WANT TO TRY THE TOP VPN RISK FREE?

NordVPN is offering a fully-featured risk-free 30-day trial if you sign up at this page. You can use the VPN rated #1 for Facebook without any restrictions for a full month—great if you want to stay in touch while traveling in countries with strict online censorship.

There are no hidden terms—just contact support within 30 days if you decide not to continue with NordVPN to receive a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here.

Unblocking Facebook with a free VPN

Over two billion users log in to Facebook at least once a month. Frightening statistics aside, some users may not want to splurge for a paid VPN, especially because they’re not forking over any cash to use Facebook itself.

But you should reconsider that line of thought. Free VPNs are vastly inferior to paid options. If you’re trying to unblock Facebook at your workplace or school, you’ll need to use a VPN that has robust encryption and doesn’t impose things like bandwidth throttling or data caps. The last thing you need is for your network administrator to find out that you’re accessing restricted sites – this scenario is far more plausible when you sign up for a random free VPN that you found online.

It’s also important to remember that free VPNs aren’t exactly free. They monetize by making you the product – inundating you with advertisements and, in some cases, inserting malware or tracking cookies in your browser to mine browsing data and sell it to third-party sites.

At Comparitech, we believe it’s in your best interest to stay clear of free VPNs when trying to access Facebook. Instead, opt for one of the reputable VPNs listed above and make use of their money-back guarantees to make sure you’re happy before committing long-term.

Using Facebook with a VPN: FAQs

If I use a VPN can I be hidden when on Facebook?

Here’s the thing: everything you do on Facebook is tied to your user account. This means that you can still be identified by your actions, even if a VPN is connected. Additionally, many websites use something called the Facebook Pixel to link your activities on other sites to your Facebook account for analytics purposes.

In short, a VPN won’t stop Facebook from tracking you and keeping tabs on what you get up to online. However, as they route your traffic through an encrypted tunnel, they can stop your employer, network admin, or government from seeing that you’re on Facebook.

Can Facebook detect when I use a VPN?

Yes, Facebook can detect when you’re using a VPN. However, It’s highly unlikely that they would take action against you, such as banning your account, for doing so.

It’s also unlikely that you’ll have any problems logging in or using Facebook while connected to a VPN. There is a small chance that your chosen server is blacklisted by the service (for instance, if it’s been used to harass someone in the past), but luckily, this is an easy issue to fix: just try a different server. If you’re struggling to access Facebook with a VPN, it’s best to ask your VPN provider for help; they may even have specific servers specially designed to bypass the platform’s VPN-detection measures.

What do I do if Facebook is blocked in my country?

Countries like China and North Korea block Facebook outright. Some other places, such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, stop users from accessing Facebook Messenger’s VoIP (voice and video chat) features.

If you’re looking for a solution to this problem, then follow the steps given above, connect through a VPN, and Facebook should work normally.

Can I access Threads with the best VPNs for Facebook?

You can use the best VPNs for Facebook to access the likes of Threads, Instagram, and WhatsApp, all of which are owned by Meta. For the most part, Meta’s products and services don’t block VPNs so unlike with popular streaming services such as Netflix, you shouldn’t have too much difficulty accessing them regardless of your location.

What we should say is that while Facebook and Instagram are available in the vast majority of countries, Thread isn’t available in the European Union as yet. This is due to concerns over its data collection policies (the EU has stricter privacy laws regarding this).

To use Threads from any country, be sure to connect to a server in one of the 100 countries in which it’s currently available. This includes the US, UK,  Canada, Australia, and Japan. Connecting to a server in one of these countries changes your IP address, allowing you to spoof your location and unblock and use Threads regardless of where you are.