Best VPNs for Singapore and which ones to avoid in 2024

Trying to find the best Singapore VPN can be a tricky task. However, through rigorous research and uncompromised testing, we’ve factored in key elements like robust security, absolute online privacy, and the power to unlock global streaming channels. This guide reveals our top picks for Singapore VPNs to help you stay safe while living or traveling in Singapore.

Singapore’s status as a business and technology hub in Southeast Asia has never been doubted, but there are question marks over the levels of internet freedom granted to residents of the Lion State.

Short for Virtual Private Network, a VPN encrypts all the internet traffic flowing to and from your device and tunnels it via an intermediary server outside your location. Hackers or surveillance agencies can’t keep track of what you’re doing online, including which websites you’re visiting and the content you stream. This is why a VPN is an excellent choice for online freedom.

A VPN service is also a handy tool for expatriates living in Singapore looking to securely access local media content from back home such as BBC iPlayer, Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, SkyGo, ESPN, BeIN Sports, or any other video streaming services. Several of these providers can also give you a Singaporean IP address to watch Singaporean content, such as shows on Singtel TV.

We cover all of our recommended providers in more detail, but if you’re in a hurry, here is our list of the top VPNs for Singapore.

Discover the best VPNs for Singapore:

1. NordVPN: Our top pick for Singapore. Veteran VPN provider with a strict no-logs policy and strong security to bypass Government censorship. Great speeds make it an ideal choice for streaming. 30-day money-back guarantee included.
   TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Basic) works perfectly for Singapore.
2. Surfshark: Budget VPN that puts your security first with AES 256-bit encryption. Offers great unblocking potential to overcome content restrictions and allows any number of connections.
3. IPVanish: Torrent-friendly, premium VPN service with stable speeds, no logs, and AES-256 encryption. A smaller list of servers than some of the competition.
4. ExpressVPN: Well-designed apps that provide great internet security, fast speeds, and the ability to access tons of overseas content libraries while abroad like US Netflix.
5. CyberGhost: A reliable VPN service with an extensive server network. It has plenty of advanced features to protect internet activity, and it doesn’t keep any connection logs.
6. Private Internet Access: A speedy, versatile VPN. A perfect choice for Singaporean users abroad as it has servers in Singapore.
7. PureVPN: A fast VPN that’s perfect for streaming Singaporean content. Supports up to 10 simultaneous device connections.
8. ProtonVPN: Highest levels of security, including 256-bit AES encryption, and DNS leak protection.

Our ranking of the best VPNs for Singapore is based on the following factors:

• Speed and reliability of service
• Strong encryption parameters
• No usage logs
• Works well with streaming services (Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, BBC etc)
• Servers in Singapore
• Apps for all major operating systems

You can find more about our VPN testing methodology further in this article.

The best VPNs for Singapore – Our hands-on review

We’ve tested 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 Singapore.

The best VPN services for content and streaming access in Singapore

From real-world testing, here’s our list of the best Singapore VPNs:

1. NordVPN

Nov 2024

NordVPN is one of the most popular VPN services and has been in the business for over a decade – a testament to the high standards the company maintains for itself.

It continues the tradition of holding zero data about its users – no real IP address, browsing habits, timestamps, or server information. The company has received requests for information in the past, but it says nothing on its servers could incriminate users.

NordVPN operates around 6,200 servers in 111 countries – with some optimized for double VPN connections, beating censorship, and accessing the dark web. In other words, this VPN should cater to your needs regardless of your requirements.

Around 40 of these servers are located in Singapore, which is ideal for local residents who want to access Singaporean websites while traveling abroad. Further, NordVPN works with many international services, such as Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+.

Encryption standards are impressive – NordVPN uses the 256-bit AES protocol encryption standard by default coupled with 2,048-bit SSL keys. DNS leak protection is enabled. NordVPN also offers automatic Wi-Fi protection which is especially handy if you connect to public Wi-Fi on a regular basis.

There’s support for Linux, Windows, MacOS, iOS, and Android.

BEST VPN FOR SINGAPORE:NordVPN is our top pick. Solid security and privacy and works reliably in Singapore. Use up to 10 devices at once with great connection speeds. Offers a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.

Here’s our full review of NordVPN.

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2. Surfshark

Surfshark operates around 3,200 servers in 95 countries including Singapore. Its speeds are fast enough for streaming live, high-definition video, and this service is capable of securely accessing all sorts of streaming platforms (Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer to name a few). Best of all, with no connection limit, you’re free to secure all of your devices with a single account.

This VPN takes your online security very seriously. It protects you from DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks, uses 256-bit encryption to hide your traffic from snoopers, and automatically blocks ads and malware for you. There’s even a kill switch, which ensures you never accidentally browse without protection, even for a second. Surfshark keeps no logs whatsoever of your online activities, meaning you’re almost completely anonymous when using it.

Surfshark apps are available for MacOS, iOS, Android, Windows, and Linux. Manual installation is required for use with wireless routers.

Read our full review of Surfshark here.

BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark lets you enjoy reliable streaming and browsing on any device, with no limit on connections. Highly affordable but offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

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3. IPVanish

IPVanish offers another sturdy VPN service that delivers top-tier speeds without compromising on encryption standards or user privacy. It’s a completely logless service – meaning there’s no storage of web activity or metadata. The only time it retains some information is when an account is registered for the first time.

Encryption protocols are stringent – IPVanish uses 256-bit encryption on the WireGuard protocol by default, SHA512 authentication, and a DHE-RSA 2,048-bit key exchange with perfect forward secrecy. In the unlikely event that a hacker gains control of your account, they will still be unable to decrypt past session data to figure out what you’ve been up to on the web.

IPVanish includes an internet kill switch, which means traffic will be temporarily halted if the VPN connection drops out of the blue. Servers are optimized for speed, stability, and security – with almost 2,000 of them spread across 60+ countries, including around 30 in Singapore.

There are mobile apps for both iOS and Android as well as desktop support for Windows and MacOS.

SECURE EVERY DEVICE:IPVanish has a large network of servers. Generally solid for torrenters, P2P & Kodi users. Adhere to the highest standard of digital privacy, but can struggle with some popular streaming sites. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of IPVanish.

4. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN combines a neat, minimalistic, and functional design with impeccable service, making it a great choice for anyone in Singapore.

The company operates over 3,000 secure VPN servers spread across 94 countries including some in Singapore. This allows users to access websites like StarHub TV, Netflix, and BBC iPlayer while traveling abroad.

ExpressVPN does not store any traffic logs so it ranks well from a privacy and anonymity perspective. It does record some minimal user information such as the “date (not time) of internet connection, choice of VPN Singapore and server location, and total bandwidth used”. This can’t be used to identify you and is only used to improve service quality standards. If you’re still feeling uneasy, it’s possible to sign up for the service via a burner email account and pay through Bitcoin. There’s no way for the activity to be traced back to you.

Security features and encryption standards are robust. The service leverages 256-bit AES-CBC protocols as well as HMAC authentication and perfect forward secrecy. There’s an internet kill switch included, referred to as a ‘network lock’, which means all web traffic will be temporarily halted if the connection drops unexpectedly.

There are Android and iOS apps and desktop clients for Windows, MacOS, and Linux.

EXTREMELY VERSATILE:ExpressVPN is a reliable choice. Optimized for high-speed connections. Scores high above its rivals for securely accessing Netflix and other streaming sites. Hard to beat on privacy and security.30-day no-quibbles money-back guarantee.

Here’s our in-depth review of ExpressVPN.

5. CyberGhost

CyberGhost is headquartered in Romania and has a policy of not logging any user behavior or content of communications. Also, it has one of the largest networks around, with almost 9,000 servers globally and around two dozen in Singapore alone.

The service will enable you to securely access many streaming service websites, including Netflix and BBC iPlayer. When you log in to your VPN account, you can simply choose from a list of streaming-optimized servers, making the whole process as easy as possible.

Data loss concerns should be questioned because CyberGhost uses 256-bit AES encryption on the WireGuard protocol by default along with 2,048-bit RSA keys and MD5 HMAC authentication. These are generally viewed as top-tier standards. An internet kill switch is also included, which means web traffic will be halted if the connection drops unexpectedly.

Apps are available for both Android and iOS, as well as desktop support for Windows, MacOS, and Linux.

NOVICE FRIENDLY:CyberGhost is easy to use. Achieves fast and reliable connections with a good range of servers. Great online privacy with zero logs and DNS leak protection. 45-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of CyberGhost.

6. Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access has a larger network than most other providers, offering access to nearly 10,000 servers in 80+ countries including Singapore. It’s also fast enough for tasks like streaming, torrenting, and video-calling so you’re in good hands whether you want to watch Netflix or securely use online banking during your visit.

Users don’t have to worry about their privacy, either. Traffic is hidden using 256-bit encryption (though you can lower this for slightly faster speeds), a kill switch, and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks.

Notably, PIA includes a tool that can block ads and malware automatically. You can also switch to the speedy WireGuard protocol if you’d like, or use a different port to help obfuscate your OpenVPN traffic. Having trouble? No problem: customer support is free and on-hand 24/7 over live chat.

PIA apps are available for Linux, MacOS, Windows, Android, and iOS. You’ll have to follow manual setup instructions to get it running on supported routers.

SPEEDY AND SECURE:Private Internet Access can handle almost anything you throw at it. It offers powerful privacy tools and quick servers all over the world (including in Singapore), plus a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Check out our full review of PIA.

7. PureVPN

PureVPN is both practical and cost-effective for anybody seeking a Singaporean IP address. This VPN offers excellent value for money, starting at just $1.96 per month.

With over 6000 servers in more than 65 countries, including Singapore, PureVPN provides local IP addresses for accessing Singaporean streaming services, internet banking, online shopping, and localized Google search results. It’s ideal for unblocking geo-restricted content Singaporean platforms like meWATCH and StarHub Go. You can also use it to bypass blocks at workplaces or on campus within Singapore.

PureVPN’s fast servers are perfect for activities like streaming, gaming, torrenting, and video conferencing. Using the WireGuard protocol, it achieves impressive download speeds of up to 400 Mbps, making it a standout option for its price range.

Beyond Singaporean content, PureVPN is versatile enough to access platforms and services in 65 different countries, including Netflix US, Hulu, HBO Max, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, British TV, and streams in many other countries around Asia and the world.

In terms of security, PureVPN offers strong protection with AES encryption, a kill switch, DNS leak prevention, and a stringent no-logging policy. These features are crucial for safeguarding against online tracking by local networks, ISPs, and government agencies, and they offer protection against hackers, especially on public wifi.

Though customer support response times can be slow, we think the overall reliability of PureVPN offsets this minor caveat. You can check it out yourself on any device using its 31-day money-back guarantee.

LOW COST:PureVPN is a low-cost VPN ideal for accessing Singaporean services on vacation. It has servers in over 65 countries, including Singapore. Robust privacy and security features. Fast WireGuard protocol and apps for all platforms.

Find out more in our PureVPN review.

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8. ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN is a highly advanced VPN solution that is perfect for tech-savvy users seeking a Singaporean IP address. Originating from Switzerland and developed by the creators of ProtonMail, ProtonVPN boasts an impeccable reputation. It has also completed a full third-party audit of its apps and network.

With apps for all popular platforms, ProtonVPN includes useful features such as AES encryption, a range of VPN protocols, obfuscation technology, split tunneling, multi-hop connections, and self-owned Secure Core servers. It also offers the option to use Tor over VPN. These features make ProtonVPN reliable to evade ISP and government surveillance – particularly useful if you travel to countries with high levels of surveillance and censorship.

While ProtonVPN’s longer subscription plans are a touch pricey, you can get an excellent deal on the one-month plan. This makes it a decent option for anybody who is going on vacation or traveling for work.

Our tests revealed that ProtonVPN works to watch Singaporean streaming services like meWATCH, Toggle, StarHub Go, and Singtel TV GO. It’s also compatible with international services such as Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, and BBC iPlayer.

ProtonVPN’s customer support is accessible 24/7 through live chat, and you can try the VPN risk-free using its 30-day money-back guarantee. Finally, it’s a fantastic option for torrenting, thanks to its split tunneling and port forwarding.

HIGHLY SECURE:ProtonVPN is a reliable and trusted VPN with servers in 85+ countries, including Singapore. It works to access Singaporean streaming services abroad or while at work within Singapore. Strong AES encryption and a kill switch. Easy to use on all devices.

Read our full ProtonVPN review.

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How to use a VPN for Singapore (A first-person guide)

Whether you’re a traveler looking to stream TV from back home or a Singapore native who wants a little extra security while browsing the web, a VPN is a great tool to have. Below, I’ll explain how to get set up in a few simple steps:

1. First, you’ll have to sign up for a reputable VPN. In this example, I’ve used NordVPN, but after years of testing these services, I can safely say that most of them look quite similar. This means that you shouldn’t have any issues following along, even if you chose one of the other providers mentioned in this post
2. We’ll begin by visiting Comparitech’s IP address checking tool and making a note of the IP address that’s shown. This way, we’ll be able to verify that the VPN is working properly in a couple of minutes

   

3. Now, open up your VPN app. In NordVPN, you have to click the downwards arrow in the top-left to show the full server list, but this is visible by default in Surfshark (ExpressVPN users have to click the Selected Location button)
4. You’ll usually get the fastest speeds from a nearby server, so I’d suggest using a Singaporean server if you’re concerned about security. On the other hand, if you want to access region-exclusive services like BBC iPlayer, you’ll have to select a server from that specific country. On this occasion, I searched for “United Kingdom” and picked a server in London

   

5. After a moment, the screen will change to let you know that you’re connected to the VPN. We can verify that it’s actually working by going back to the IP address checker – it should now think that you’re in the same country as the server you chose earlier

   

6. From this point on, you should be able to access your usual streaming services and torrent anonymously and play games with friends in other countries. However, if you’re having trouble, you might want to try a different server or open the website in a private tab to make sure that old location data isn’t what’s causing the issue.
7. Still having trouble? In that case, I’d recommend getting in touch with your VPN’s support team. All of the providers above offer live chat (just click the popup in the bottom-right of their website) and in my experience, this is the quickest and easiest way to get help.

Our methodology: How we found the best VPNs for Singapore

There are some challenges that come with browsing the web from Singapore. Aside from some international websites and services being geo-blocked, there’s also an increasing level of censorship in the country. Fortunately, a VPN can help in this respect. Below, we reveal our methodology for choosing the best VPNs for Singapore.

• Unblocking: If you’re in Singapore, chances are you’ve come across geo-restricted content or even censorship enforced by the Singaporean Government. As such, you’ll want a VPN that is able to bypass restrictions and unblock a wide range of websites and services. We look for VPNs that do just this. In fact, we even test these VPNs with online content for ourselves.
• Speed: Connecting to servers in other countries while your internet traffic is encrypted can slow your connection. For this reason, we look for the VPNs that offer the fastest speeds. They should also include unlimited bandwidth so you are free to browse, stream, and torrent as much as you like.
• Network size: It’s frustrating to be limited in what you can and can’t access online. Some VPNs only provide servers in a few locations, but all of those listed above provide servers in dozens of countries. This means you can change your IP address and access content from almost anywhere in the world.
• Security: Any high-quality VPN should encrypt your internet traffic and protect you from leaks. This is particularly important if you’d like to avoid the security risks posed by hackers and snoopers. Some VPNs take security a step further by providing double VPN servers so your data is encrypted twice, ensuring high levels of digital privacy.
• Privacy: In Singapore, your ISP may be required to hand over data to the government. If you’re worried about your online privacy, it’s essential to use a VPN that operates a strict no-logs policy so that there’s nothing to hand over if requested. We’ve analyzed VPN logging policies to find the very best.
• Ease of use: All of the above is important, but it means little if the VPN is too complicated for you to use! By trying out VPN apps for ourselves, we find those that are beginner-friendly. We’ve even tested customer support to find out the speed and quality of replies (all of the VPNs covered offer 24/7 live chat and email support).
• Value for money: The good thing about the VPNs we’ve recommended is that they offer all of the above. While there are plenty of other VPNs that offer some of these features, many are priced similarly or even higher. You can be sure of getting the best value by taking advantage of our VPN discount coupons.

Want to know more? Take a look at our VPN testing methodology to find out how we go about testing each and every aspect of a VPN. We hope that this helps you make a decision as to which VPN best fits your needs.

Be aware: VPNs to avoid while in Singapore for secure content access

Reducing internet freedoms in Singapore means that most people opt to use a VPN service because they value their privacy on the web. The VPNs mentioned in this article have had no documented cases of violating that trust, but there are some others floating around that have compromised their ethical commitment to maintaining privacy without a second thought. We recommend you turn your back on them.

Here’s an example:

HolaVPN

Israel-based Hola, which once boasted a user base of almost 50 million, shockingly turned this critical mass into a massive botnet in 2015.

Part of users’ bandwidth was bifurcated illegally by the company for Distributed Denial of Service Attacks and for distributing copyrighted content. That’s without any user consent whatsoever. We recommend you avoid Hola like the plague.

While we don’t condone the use of VPNs to commit illegal acts – which is clearly what both Cody Kretsinger and Chris Dupuy were accused of doing – we do maintain that a VPN company needs to put ethics and privacy as its top priorities. So when it violates that principle, there should be no second chances.

FAQs about VPNs for Singapore:

See also:

• How to watch Singapore TV abroad
• How to get a Singapore IP Address
• Best VPNs for Asia