At a Glance
The state of government surveillance in Taiwan is murky. It’s difficult to find in-depth reports about government internet monitoring, but there’s a strong likelihood that the Taiwanese government does monitor some internet communications.
In addition to government monitoring, Taiwanese citizens have to deal with hackers, just like any other internet user. Plus, Taiwanese citizens are also subject to content geo-restrictions, meaning that online content such as location-specific streaming services (like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and more) is not available to those residing in Taiwan.
However, hackers, government monitoring, and Taiwanese content blockades alike stand no chance against a Virtual Private Network (VPN).
How Can a VPN Help Me in Taiwan?
A VPN encrypts your internet connection, keeping your online activities safe from government monitoring and hackers. Plus, a VPN can give you a new IP address in another country, opening up access to international content that Taiwanese users would not normally have access to.
In this article, I review the top six best VPN providers to use while in Taiwan to protect and enhance your online activities.
Best VPNs for Taiwan
I’ve put many VPN providers through their paces, discovering which VPNs are the best for which purpose. I’ve discovered that the following six VPN providers offer the best service for Taiwan.
Here’s the short and sweet version of my reviews. (Longer reviews can be found later on.)
Best VPNs for Taiwan:
- NordVPN: Top-ranked VPN for Taiwan. NordVPN offers an excellent all-around service, making it great for Taiwan. The provider’s strong encryption and no-logs policy keep you secure, and its fast speeds and comprehensive app support enhance your online activities. Its new NordLynx protocol increases your speed and security at once. Comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Surfshark: Best budget VPN for Taiwan. Surfshark’s low-priced subscriptions make it the obvious choice for users concerned about their budget. The provider’s unlimited simultaneous connections allowance will come in handy for users with many devices, and its well-protected connections will keep you safe online.
- ExpressVPN: Premium VPN at a premium price. Streaming lovers will love ExpressVPN, despite its high price. The provider has some of the fastest connection speeds on this list, in addition to top-notch app support, a large global server network, and secure connections.
- CyberGhost: Rookie VPN users will like CyberGhost. The provider’s easy-to-use apps make it simple to connect to any one of its servers in over 90 countries. Streaming- and downloading-optimized servers enhance your experience.
- Private Internet Access (PIA): Reliable VPN for Taiwan. PIA provides top-notch online security and privacy protections, keeping your online activities hidden from observation, while also delivering reliable access to geo-fenced content around much of the globe.
- PrivateVPN: Small but powerful provider. This provider’s global server network is the smallest on this list. That said, the network is quite powerful, as it delivers well-protected access to geo-controlled content in countries where it has its servers.
To decide which VPNs to recommend for Taiwan, I assessed the following features of each VPN service provider.
- Bonus for VPN server locations in Taiwan
- Top-notch security and privacy protections
- Optimal download speeds
- Wide-ranging app support
- Multiple customer support options
Taiwanese users who are intent on protecting and enhancing their internet connections with a VPN should choose one of these six best VPN service providers for Taiwan.
1. NordVPN
NordVPN is my #1 choice for Taiwan because of its all-around excellent VPN service offerings.
The provider offers 5,700+ servers across the globe in 60+ countries, including Taiwan. NordVPN owns and operates many of its server farms, keeping outside contractors away from your personal info.
You’ll never have to worry about your security with NordVPN. Bank-grade AES 256-bit encryption, an automatic kill switch, DNS leak protection, and malware, botnet, and ad blocking features all protect you during your online escapades. The provider’s proprietary NordLynx protocol is also now available, increasing your security and speed.
The provider also offers obfuscated servers, which make your VPN activity appear to be normal internet traffic, and a Double VPN option, which routes your internet connection through a duo of VPN servers, doubling your digital privacy.
NordVPN guarantees that it saves no logs of your online activities, so much so that it agreed to allow a third-party privacy audit. Bitcoin is accepted here as a subscription payment option. The provider also runs all of its servers solely from RAM, meaning all data on the servers is completely wiped when they are rebooted or shut down.
NordVPN’s connection speeds are extraordinarily fast, ranking in the top 10 in my most recent round of connection speed tests. You can play movies and TV shows in HD or 4K, play fast-moving games, or download large files at those kinds of speeds. NordVPN provides unlimited bandwidth and never imposes data caps.
The provider offers apps for many different device platforms, including iOS, macOS (with native M1/M2 Mac support), Android, Linux, Windows, Amazon Fire, and Android TV. You can protect your browsing sessions with Chrome, Edge, or Firefox extensions, and the provider supports multiple makes and models of routers.
“SmartDNS” is NordVPN’s smart DNS option. It allows you to access international streaming content on devices incompatible with VPN apps, including game consoles, smart TVs, and other set-top boxes. It should be noted that the service doesn’t encrypt your internet connection.
NordVPN allows six simultaneous connections on one account.
Customer support is available in the form of 24/7 live support chat, email support, and a searchable support database.
Pros:
- Industry-standard privacy protections
- High-end encryption
- Extremely fast VPN connection speeds
- Low pricing
- App support for a plethora of devices
Cons:
- No streaming or file sharing-optimized servers
BEST VPN FOR TAIWAN:NordVPN is the top VPN for Taiwan. The VPN service provider offers extremely fast speeds, in addition to comprehensive digital privacy and strong security protections. Its app support is extensive and its global server network is wide. A risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee is available.
Read my full review of NordVPN.
2. Surfshark
Surfshark is a high-quality VPN that doesn’t charge a high price for its satisfying service, making it a great choice for Taiwanese users on a budget.
The provider offers a server network that used to be small, but now comprises 3,200+ servers in 100+ countries, including Taiwan.
Surfshark’s security protections are impressive, composed of military-grade 256-bit AES encryption, an automatic kill switch, DNS leak protection, malware and phishing protections, and ad and tracker blocking. The provider also offers “MultiHop,” which routes your connection through two VPN servers for added security.
Surfshark was recently named a top Cybersecurity Company. This is because of its reassuring privacy protections, which include a strict no-logs policy and a Bitcoin payment option. The provider now runs all of its servers 100% from volatile RAM, so all data is securely and automatically wiped when a server is rebooted or shut down.
You’ll never have to worry about speed with Surfshark, as the provider boasts some formidable and stable connection speeds. You’ll get unlimited bandwidth and no data restrictions for your subscription.
Concerning app support, Surfshark offers apps for many device platforms, including iOS, Android, macOS (with Apple Silicon support), Windows, Linux, Amazon Fire, and Android TV. Chrome, Edge, and Firefox browser extensions make the scene, and router support is available.
Surfshark provides unlimited simultaneous connections to all subscribers, allowing you to connect all of your devices (or friends, family, or co-workers) to the provider’s servers at once under one set of login credentials.
When it comes to customer support, Surfshark doesn’t let you down. The provider offers 24/7 live support chat, email support, a “Contact Us” form, and a searchable support library.
Pros:
- Very enticing pricing
- Top-notch digital security and privacy protections
- Unlimited concurrent connections
- Plenty of app support
Cons:
- Not many advanced options in apps
BEST FOR BUDGET:You’ll want to check out Surfshark if you’re on a budget. Fast connection speeds, optimal security and online privacy protections, and app support for all of your favorite devices are available. Unlimited simultaneous connections is an attractive feature. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.
Read my full review of Surfshark.
3. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN offers the best service for streaming, if that’s what you’re really after.
3,000+ ExpressVPN servers cover the globe in nearly 95 countries, including Taiwan, giving you a wide range of options. Geo-blocked content stands no chance against ExpressVPN’s formidable content-unblocking abilities.
Security-wise, ExpressVPN provides government-grade 256-bit AES encryption, an automatic kill switch, and DNS leak and IPv6 leak protections. The provider recently rolled out its new “Lightway” protocol, which offers added speed and security for your connection.
The provider’s custom TrustedServer technology runs all server operations from RAM, never writing any info to the hard drive. This means all information is completely wiped every time the server is restarted.
ExpressVPN doesn’t save any usage logs, keeping your online activities undercover. In addition, the provider offers the option to pay with the privacy-friendly Bitcoin cryptocurrency.
When it comes to connection speeds, ExpressVPN is one of the faster VPNs around. Streaming, gaming, and file sharing are no issue for ExpressVPN. The provider offers no-data-cap connections with unlimited bandwidth.
App support is available for Windows, macOS (w/ M1/M2 Mac support), Linux, Android, iOS, Android TV, ChromeOS, and Amazon Fire device platforms. There are browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave, and Vivaldi. Excellent router support is available. The provider recently updated its router app interface and made it easier to switch IP locations.
ExpressVPN offers a MediaStreamer smart DNS service that allows devices such as game consoles, smart TVs, and other set-top boxes to access international streaming content, despite being incompatible with VPN apps. However, the service doesn’t encrypt your internet connection like the VPN service does.
ExpressVPN allows only five devices to connect to its servers at once on one set of login credentials.
Customer support-wise, ExpressVPN has you covered, offering 24/7 live support chat, email support, a trouble ticket tracking system, and a searchable support database.
Pros:
- Servers around the world and in Taiwan
- Ability to access all sorts of content
- Formidable connection speeds
- Surprisingly wide app support
Cons:
- Expensively priced
- Doesn’t label its streaming servers
GREAT FOR STREAMING:ExpressVPN is your VPN if you enjoy streaming most. The provider offers fast connection speeds, extensive multi-platform support, a smart DNS option, and a wide server network. Your digital privacy and online security are always protected. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.
Read my full review of ExpressVPN.
4. CyberGhost
If you’re a newbie to the VPN world, CyberGhost may be your best option. The VPN service provider’s easy-to-use apps make it a great choice for rookies.
CyberGhost’s server network is one of the widest available on the market, comprising 9,000+ servers in 90+ countries, including Taiwan. There are servers optimized for streaming and downloading available to subscribers.
Are you particularly security-conscious? CyberGhost will reassure you, as it offers bank-grade 256-bit AES encryption, automatic kill switch protection, DNS leak protection, and malicious website and ad blocking. You can also set the VPN up to force websites to show secure versions of their web pages.
There’s also now available a security suite for Windows, which includes an antivirus, a “Privacy Guard” that lets you control how much information Windows collects about you, and a “Security Updater,” which notifies you when out-of-date apps need updating.
A Bitcoin cryptocurrency subscription payment option is available, and the provider never records any logs of your online activities.
If you’re in need of fast speeds, CyberGhost delivers. The provider boasts some impressive connection speeds, perfect for streaming, gaming, and file sharing. Unlimited bandwidth is available, and there’s no data cap limit for subscribers.
CyberGhost’s apps are simple and easy to use, available for macOS, Linux, Windows, Android, iOS, Android TV, and Amazon Fire device platforms. There are free Chrome and Firefox browser extensions available and support for multiple makes and models of routers.
This VPN service provider also allows you to connect up to seven devices at once on one account, which is an unusually high number for a provider to offer.
Suppose you have any questions about CyberGhost’s stellar service. In that case, the provider enables you to contact them via 24/7 live support chat, a trouble ticket submission system, and an easy-to-search support library.
Pros:
- Extremely wide server network, with servers in Taiwan
- Easy-to-use apps
- Extensive security protections
Cons:
- Doesn’t access all streaming services
- No native router apps
BEST FOR BEGINNERS:You’ll appreciate CyberGhost’s easy-to-use apps if you’re a beginner VPN user. In addition to one-click connections, the provider offers fast speeds, comprehensive digital security and privacy protections, and streaming- and downloading-optimized servers. A 45-day money-back guarantee is available.
Read my full review of CyberGhost.
5. Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access (PIA) provides access to content in Taiwan and several other countries. The VPN service boasts an impressive global server network that includes 3,300+ servers based in close to 85 countries, Taiwan included.
PIA’s banking-grade encryption, IP/DNS leak prevention, and kill switch protection all team up to keep your online travels incognito. PIA also offers blocking of ads, trackers, malware, and dangerous websites.
The provider keeps no logs of your online activities while you’re connected to its servers. Bitcoin is accepted as payment, allowing you to protect your payment privacy. (Use a disposable email address for additional privacy.)
PIA offers native app support for Android, Android TV, iOS, macOS, Windows, and Linux devices. Chrome, Opera, and Firefox browser extensions are also available to protect your browsing. The provider works well with several select routers. An unlimited number of devices can be connected at once to PIA’s servers.
While PIA’s connection speeds are the second-slowest on this list of six, the provider’s connections deliver plenty of bandwidth for your favorite online activities. The provider never imposes daily or monthly data caps or throttles your connection.
PIA’s customer support offers live support chat, a trouble ticket system, and a support library.
Pros:
- Reliable access to content around the globe
- Comprehensive online security and privacy
- Large global server network
Cons:
- No streaming-optimized servers
- Doesn’t work reliably from inside China
RELIABLE VPN PROTECTION FOR TAIWAN:Private Internet Access provides top-notch online security and privacy protection for an unlimited number of connected devices. The provider delivers reliable access to content in 85+ countries around the globe. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.
Read my full review of Private Internet Access.
6. PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN’s global server network is the smallest on this list. That said, its 200+ servers, distributed among 60+ countries, including Taiwan, provide reliable access to geo-controlled content located in the countries where it has servers.
The provider also provides the slowest connection speeds in this lineup, although they do deliver enough speed for streaming, online gaming, and other popular online activities.
PrivateVPN’s online protection measures include banking-grade encryption, IP/DNS leak protection, and more. The provider’s “Stealth VPN” disguises your VPN use as normal browser traffic.
It follows a strict no-server logs policy, ensuring that there are no records being kept of your online activities while connected to the provider’s network. The provider accepts cryptocurrency as payment, keeping your subscription payment information private, especially when you sign up using a disposable email address.
App support is limited to Android, iOS, macOS, Linux, and Windows device platforms. The VPN provider can also be manually set up on Linux devices and select routers. Unfortunately, browser extensions are not available.
PrivateVPN allows up to 10 concurrent connections to its servers by a single user.
The provider’s customer support offerings include a live chat option, a support form, and an FAQ support area.
Pros:
- Reliable access to content in 60+ countries
- Disguises your VPN connection
- Comprehensive online security and privacy
Cons:
- Global server coverage needs expansion
- Lacking in the app department
DAVID AMONG GOLIATHS:PrivateVPN’s admittedly small global server network provides well-protected access to content in the countries it serves. A handy “Stealth VPN” feature disguises your VPN usage by making it appear as normal browser traffic. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.
Read my full review of PrivateVPN.
Methodology for Assessing VPNs for Taiwan
While internet users in Taiwan enjoy mostly unrestricted internet, there are concerns that the government there is monitoring their online travels. Users also face the usual online perils and geographic content restrictions faced by internet users everywhere. This means that there are several features that should be considered before subscribing to a VPN:
- Global server network: The larger a global server network is, the better access it is likely to provide to geo-fenced content around the globe. Also, look for multiple servers based in each country the provider has covered, as that helps prevent a server from being overloaded by too many users.
- Connection speeds: No matter your favorite online activity, a faster connection is your best friend. The VPNs on this list performed well in my download speed tests.
- Value: A VPN’s value can be determined by comparing a VPN provider’s asking price to the services it offers. The VPNs on my list offer excellent value.
- Ease of use: A VPN should offer intuitive apps for multiple device platforms. The VPNs on my list generally offer excellent app support.
- Security and privacy: A VPN should protect your internet connection with military-grade encryption, a kill switch, and DNS/IP leak prevention. Any VPN worth your consideration should also follow a strict no-logs policy. The providers on my lists provide top-notch online security and privacy features.
- Streaming: Streaming is arguably one of the most popular online pastimes today. Most of the VPNs on this list offer reliable access to popular streaming sites, including Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and many others.
My research doesn’t end here. This is just a portion of my data-driven VPN testing methodology. This approach helps me to properly rank these VPNs, allowing me to recommend VPNs that are a good fit for my readers’ needs.
How to Use a VPN to Connect to Taiwan
To connect to a VPN server in Taiwan, follow the steps below.
- Subscribe to a VPN provider that offers servers in Taiwan (my top recommendation is NordVPN).
- Download and install the VPN provider’s app(s) on your device(s).
- Log in on the VPN app.
- Select and connect to a server in Taiwan.
- Enjoy the internet in Taiwan!
If you would prefer to connect to a VPN server elsewhere, simply connect to a VPN server in another country instead of Taiwan.
Can I Use a Free VPN in Taiwan?
It’s certainly possible to use a free VPN in Taiwan. However, I guarantee that you’ll be dissatisfied with the service you get.
Here are a couple of things you should know about free VPN service providers.
First of all, free VPNs often make you wait in a queue behind other free users before allowing you to connect to one of their servers. Once your time has come, you’ll find few server locations to connect to, if you’re given any choice at all and you’re not automatically connected to a server of the provider’s choosing.
The likelihood that there will be a Taiwanese server available is slim to none, so if that was your intention, you’ll be disappointed.
Connection speeds are also abysmal from free VPN providers. Free VPNs have a habit of throttling the connection speeds of free users to save bandwidth for paying customers. That’s in addition to the daily or monthly data caps that free VPNs impose upon users.
Last, but certainly not least, is the hazard to your online privacy. Free VPNs have to keep their servers humming in some way, and they often make their revenue by tracking free users’ online activities and selling the information to third parties, such as advertisers.
And that’s in addition to the unwanted ads and tracking cookies some free providers have been known to insert into your browsing sessions.
You’re much better off choosing a paid VPN that doesn’t charge much for their service, like NordVPN or Surfshark. That way, you won’t have to endanger your online health or deal with the many inconveniences of a free VPN.
Conclusion
Taiwanese users who want a quality VPN service provider to protect and enhance their online activities will appreciate the service that NordVPN offers.
NordVPN is an excellent VPN that provides super-fast connection speeds and top-notch security and privacy protections, as well as around-the-clock customer support. There’s a worldwide network of servers to connect to and apps for all of your favorite devices.
For more information or to subscribe, visit the NordVPN website.
VPN for Taiwan FAQs
Can I Use a VPN If I Want to Play on Gambling Websites in Taiwan?
Absolutely. Many gambling sites will block you if you try to gamble from outside of the country where the site is located. By using a VPN, you can make it appear as if you are connecting from the country where the website is based.
Can I Access Taiwan Services and TV Channels With a VPN?
The only way to access Taiwanese services and TV channels is by using a VPN to spoof your geographical location. By simply connecting to a VPN provider’s Taiwan-located server, your device is assigned a Taiwanese IP address, making it appear to Taiwanese content providers that you are located inside of the country. This allows you to access their content.
Will a Taiwan VPN Keep Me Secure on Public WiFi?
A Taiwan VPN encrypts your internet connection, which keeps you secure on a public WiFi hotspot, as it hides your online activities from other users on the hotspot network. A Taiwan VPN also keeps your online activities undercover when you’re online at home or anywhere else.
Contents [hide]
- At a Glance
- How Can a VPN Help Me in Taiwan?
- Best VPNs for Taiwan
- 1. NordVPN
- 2. Surfshark
- 3. ExpressVPN
- 4. CyberGhost
- 5. Private Internet Access
- 6. PrivateVPN
- Methodology for Assessing VPNs for Taiwan
- How to Use a VPN to Connect to Taiwan
- Can I Use a Free VPN in Taiwan?
- Conclusion
- VPN for Taiwan FAQs
- Can I Use a VPN If I Want to Play on Gambling Websites in Taiwan?
- Can I Access Taiwan Services and TV Channels With a VPN?
- Will a Taiwan VPN Keep Me Secure on Public WiFi?