5 Best VPNs for Taiwan in 2024 — Secure and Fast
Cybercrime is on the rise in Taiwan, and not all VPNs can keep you safe. My team and I tested over 50 VPNs to find the ones that protect your online identity without losing access to your accounts when traveling. All VPNs on this list can also give you a Taiwan IP address.
My top pick for Taiwan is ExpressVPN due to its military-grade encryption and fast speeds. It also keeps your data private by following a verified no-logs policy and using RAM-only servers. You can try it without risk since it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.
Short on Time? Here Are the Best VPNs for Taiwan in 2024
- Editor's ChoiceExpressVPN
Robust security features to protect your data in & outside Taiwan; ideal for public WiFi.70% of our readers choose ExpressVPN - CyberGhost
Intuitive design and optimized servers make it easy to torrent and game from Taiwan. - Private Internet Access
Global network to reliably use your account when traveling in Taiwan or abroad. - NordVPN
Impressive speeds allow for high bandwidth activities without delays in Taiwan. - Surfshark
Unlimited simultaneous connections to conveniently protect all your devices.
Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
Best VPNs for Taiwan — Full Analysis (Updated 2024)
1. ExpressVPN — Advanced Security and Privacy Tools to Protect Your Data in Taiwan and Abroad
Tested November 2024 Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Best Feature | AES 256-bit encryption, which no known practical attack can break |
Server Network | 3,000 servers across 105 countries, including Taiwan |
Speed | Only a 5% speed drop testing local servers and 36% on faraway servers |
Works With | Netflix (US & Taiwan), YouTube, LINE TV, Disney+, LiTV, KKTV, iQIYI, V Live, and more |
ExpressVPN's entire network uses RAM-only servers (TrustedServer Technology) that wipe your data with every reboot. This means none of your sensitive information gets saved, and potential intruders can't access it — this is especially important amidst the recent Telco breach. On top of that, you can use Threat Manager to prevent any trackers or malicious third parties from communicating with your device. I recommend switching this feature on in Taiwan.
There are many worldwide servers for safe access to global sites and services. Choose a server in the country to get the best speed when visiting Taiwanese content, like your Richart banking app or Line TV. When testing ExpressVPN's Taiwan server, we got an average download rate of 80.93Mbps, which is only a 5% speed drop. That’s quite impressive since many VPNs can slow you down by over 50%.
Apps are easy to install and use for various devices, including Linux and Firestick. Simply click the large power button to secure your connection to the nearest server instantly. Or use the "Smart Location" feature to find the fastest server for streaming, gaming, and torrenting without delays. It took me less than 5 minutes to download it on my Windows laptop and get a Taiwan IP address.
On the downside, prices are a bit expensive compared to other VPNs on this list, starting at $4.99/month. However, ExpressVPN offers regular deals and discounts, with a 30-day money-back guarantee supporting all plans. I got 82% off my long-term subscription and 3 extra months free. Using one account, you can also connect up to 8 devices simultaneously.
Useful Features
- Leak protection. ExpressVPN protects your data with IP/DNS leak protection and a powerful kill switch (Network Lock). Though disconnections are rare, ExpressVPN's kill switch will immediately cut your connection if the VPN drops, so you remain safe online.
- Audited no-logs policy. Several independent security companies have verified ExpressVPN's strict privacy policy. It's also headquartered in the British Virgin Islands, which has strong privacy protection laws.
- Lightway protocol. Since it uses less code, its proprietary Lightway protocol can help you achieve better speeds when connected to faraway servers while gaming or torrenting. This is also beneficial when using the VPN on mobile since it saves your battery life.
- 24/7 support. ExpressVPN's knowledgeable staff is available via email and live chat. When testing the live chat feature, I always received helpful advice and immediate assistance.
2. CyberGhost — Optimized Server for Reliable Streaming, Gaming, and Torrenting in Taiwan
Best Feature | Specialized servers for fast and secure streaming, gaming, and downloading in Taiwan |
Server Network | 11,690 servers in 100 countries, with 46 servers in Taipei |
Speed | High speeds on local servers (only a 7% drop), slower over long distances |
Works With | Netflix (US & Taiwan), YouTube, LINE TV, Disney+, LiTV, KKTV, iQIYI, V Live, and more |
CyberGhost offers dedicated servers for various online activities, like safe streaming from anywhere. There are also special servers for gaming and torrenting. These servers are regularly updated for reliable performance. I tested its torrenting-optimized servers and downloaded a 4GB file in less than 4 minutes. You can also use the regular servers in Taipei for P2P, but they were slightly slower during my tests.
The VPN also has NoSpy servers for enhanced privacy, a welcome feature considering hackers' recent breach of Taiwan's telecom company. These servers cost a bit extra, but they are located in Romania (outside the data-sharing pact of the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliances) and exclusively managed by CyberGhost's in-house team. No third parties will be able to access your data.
Like ExpressVPN, apps are user-friendly, and you can tailor the VPN connection to your preferences using Smart Rules. For example, I set the VPN to connect as soon as my computer starts. You can also create your own app rules, such as connecting to a particular server when you open a certain app. If you're in Taiwan, make sure automatic WiFi protection is active so CyberGhost launches whenever a new network is detected.
One minor con is the VPNs pricey monthly subscription, which is why I recommend the cheap long-term options at only $2.03/month, which is more affordable in the long run. Using its trustworthy money-back guarantee, you can use CyberGhost free for up to 45 days.
Useful Features
- High-level security. The VPN protects your data with AES 256-bit encryption, various security protocols (including the fast WireGuard) and DNS/IPv6 leak protection. I didn’t find any leaks during my tests.
- Auto kill switch. Enabling the automatic kill switch can keep you safe in Taiwan. It will block your internet traffic in case your VPN experiences connection issues.
- Simultaneous device connections. You can use CyberGhost on up to 7 devices at once. So, all your devices are protected when traveling to Taiwan or abroad.
3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Extensive Server Network to Reliably Access Local and International Services
Best Feature | Conceals (obfuscates) your VPN traffic as regular HTTPS to avoid getting blocked |
Server Network | 29,650 servers in 91 countries and can provide you with a Taiwan IP |
Speed | Slow over longer distances, but fast with nearby servers (only 9% speed drop) |
Works With | Netflix (US & Taiwan), YouTube, LINE TV, Disney+, LiTV, KKTV, iQIYI, V Live, and more |
With over 29,650 servers globally, PIA makes it easy to reliably access your important websites in and outside Taiwan while retaining fast speeds. I had no problem using my US bank account when visiting Taipei. Even when connecting multiple devices simultaneously, my average download rate remained consistent — there's no limit to how many devices you can connect with PIA.
Its many customization options can help you achieve better speeds or security, depending on your needs. It has adjustable encryption levels, security protocols, and a kill switch. When visiting Taiwan, I often choose OpenVPN with AES 256-bit encryption and the stronger kill switch options for better security and privacy. To improve speed, you can switch to 128-bit or select the WireGuard protocol.
The VPN is based in the US, a country known for its data-sharing policies. However, PIA follows a court-proven no-logs policy, so nothing you do online while connected to the VPN will be shared with third parties, as no data is collected in the first place. Also, thanks to its reliable money-back guarantee, you can try PIA for 30 days before committing for the long term.
Useful Features
- Multihop. This feature routes your traffic through a VPN server and a proxy, enhancing your security by making your connection harder to trace.
- SOCKS5 proxy. The proxy server option can provide faster speeds for specific tasks like P2P file sharing since full encryption does not delay your data.
- MACE ad blocker. It blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites. It enhances your browsing experience by improving speed and protecting you against online threats.
4. NordVPN — High Connection Speeds for Uninterrupted Browsing in and Outside Taiwan
Best Feature | NordLynx protocol boosts speeds without compromising your online safety |
Server Network | 6,700 servers in 111 countries, including a Double VPN server for Taiwan |
Speed | Only a 3% speed drop on nearby servers and 29% on distant ones |
Works With | Netflix (US & Taiwan), YouTube, LINE TV, Disney+, LiTV, KKTV, and more |
NordVPN is one of the fastest VPNs we tested. On nearby servers, we clocked 114.43Mbps from a base connection of 118.54Mbps. My testers checked the long-distance servers, and their average download rate decreased by 29%. Though it might seem like a considerable reduction, it’s a fantastic result over long distances. Most premium VPNs drop between 20% and 40% this far away.
I noticed that its Windows app can take a while to start up, which was irritating. Once the VPN loads, though, it connects to servers and works smoothly and consistently. I also experienced no connection drops or DNS leaks, which was great.
You can try NordVPN for Taiwan risk-free, as it's backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you don't like it, you can always get a refund. Its 24/7 live chat support was quick in processing my refund request — my money was back to my bank account after 3 days.
Useful Features
- Obfuscated servers. These mask your VPN traffic as regular internet traffic, enhancing privacy in Taiwan and bypassing VPN blocks.
- Meshnet. This feature allows you to create a private network between your chosen devices, enabling secure direct connections to your devices over the internet.
- Double VPN. NordVPN’s Double VPN feature routes your internet traffic through two different VPN servers, doubling the encryption and security level of your online activities and keeping your data safe in Taiwan.
5. Surfshark — Secure All Your Devices With One Account When Traveling to Taiwan
Best Feature | Pay only $1.99/month, and your whole household can use Surfshark |
Server Network | 3,200 servers in 100 countries, with servers in Taiwan |
Speed | Very similar to ExpressVPN speeds at a 5% drop testing local servers and 33% on faraway ones |
Works With | Netflix (US & Taiwan), YouTube, LINE TV, Disney+, LiTV, iQIYI, and V Live |
Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous device connections, so you can conveniently secure all your devices when traveling to Taiwan or abroad.I tested the VPN by connecting 9 devices at once, including my laptop, several smartphones, and various other gadgets in the office, like our work router. I had a consistent connection throughout. This means you can stream and play online games from anywhere without interruptions.
Unfortunately, the VPN is based in the Netherlands, a part of the 9-Eyes jurisdiction — an alliance of countries that collect and share information about their citizens. However, Surfshark follows a strict no-logs policy, so your data is never collected, stored, or shared with any third parties.
With its 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try Surfshark for free. I got my credit card refund within 5 days after contacting 24/7 customer support via live chat.
Useful Features
- Bypasser. Surfshark's Bypasser allows you to set the VPN to let some sites and apps bypass the VPN, so you can use your regular connection for local Google searches.
- IP Rotator. This tool automatically changes your IP address at regular intervals without dropping the connection, enhancing your privacy and security while browsing in Taiwan.
- Camouflage mode. Like ExpressVPN's obfuscated servers, this feature makes your VPN traffic appear like regular internet traffic to evade detection by ISPs or networks with VPN blocks.
Quick Guide: How to Set Up a VPN for Taiwan in 3 Easy Steps
- Download a VPN. My top pick for Taiwan is ExpressVPN due to its robust security tools, ease of use, and fast servers in and outside the country. You can even test it risk-free, using its 30-day refund period.
- Connect to a server. Select a server in Taiwan to get a Taiwan IP address and safely use websites exclusive to the country.
- Start browsing. Now, you can securely torrent, game, and stream in Taiwan.
Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.
Tips on Choosing the Best VPN for Taiwan
During my testing, I compiled a list of features I found to be the most valuable when choosing a VPN for Taiwan. In case you want to do your own research, you can use the below as a starting point:
- Worldwide server network. Opt for VPNs with an extensive global server network to safely access the websites you need anywhere. If you need a local IP address, ensure it has servers in Taiwan.
- Fast speeds. Speed is crucial for streaming, gaming, and browsing. Look for VPNs that offer fast connection speeds to prevent buffering and lag.
- Robust security. Amidst the recent hacking of Taiwan's biggest telecom company, you should invest in a VPN with at least AES-256 encryption, a no-logs policy, IP/DNS leak protection, and a kill switch.
- Easy to use. A user-friendly interface makes for a straightforward VPN experience suitable for beginners and advanced users. It also means you won't struggle with long, complicated setups.
- 24/7 customer support. Reliable customer support, available via live chat, enables you to quickly resolve issues.
- Reliable money-back guarantee. This gives you the freedom to test the service risk-free and get a refund if you're not 100% happy with it.
FAQs on Using a VPN for Taiwan
Can I use a free VPN for Taiwan?
While you can use a free VPN for Taiwan, I wouldn’t recommend it. Free VPNs often come with significant limitations, such as slower speeds, limited data allowances, and a reduced selection of servers. A low-cost, premium VPN is more reliable since it offers large networks, much faster speeds, and robust security features.
Free VPNs are also known for collecting private data and selling it to third parties for a profit. In addition, many free VPNs don't offer servers in Taiwan, so you won't be able to access your local online services when traveling.
How can I get a Taiwanese IP address?
You can obtain a Taiwanese IP address using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). To do this, you need to get a VPN that offers a server in Taiwan. Connecting to a Taiwan server will mask your real IP address and make it appear as though you're using the internet from Taiwan. This also makes it possible to safely access local platforms from anywhere.
Is using a VPN legal in Taiwan?
Yes, using a VPN is legal in Taiwan. The country maintains a relatively open and unrestricted internet environment. Still, it's recommended to use a VPN to protect your data from hackers and snoops.
However, while VPN use is legal, it's crucial to remember that any illegal activities conducted with a VPN remain unlawful, including torrenting copyrighted content. Please make sure to use VPNs responsibly and by local laws and regulations.
On which devices can I use a VPN in Taiwan?
You can use a VPN on virtually any internet-enabled device, in Taiwan or anywhere else. The VPNs listed here offer apps for a wide range of devices, including smartphones (Android and iOS), tablets, computers (Windows, macOS, and Linux), smart TVs, and gaming consoles.
For devices without native VPN support, such as certain smart TVs and gaming consoles, you can install the VPN on a compatible router.
Do I need a VPN in Taiwan?
Using a VPN in Taiwan is recommended for security purposes. This is especially true in regard to the recent Taiwan Telecom hack. A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, protecting you from potential surveillance and data theft. Using a VPN can also help you avoid ISP throttling and enable faster torrenting in Taiwan. Finally, a VPN allows safe access to your favorite online services.
Get the Best VPN for Taiwan
A VPN protects your data from hackers and online surveillance. All the VPNs in this article have robust security features to keep you safe online and can provide you with a Taiwan IP address.
I recommend ExpressVPN for Taiwan due to its industry-leading privacy tools and fast speeds. These allow you to securely use the internet in and outside Taiwan without noticeable slowdowns. ExpressVPN also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee to try it without risk.
To summarize, these are the best VPNs for Taiwan
Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
Your data is exposed to the websites you visit!
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The information above can be used to track you, target you for ads, and monitor what you do online.
VPNs can help you hide this information from websites so that you are protected at all times. We recommend ExpressVPN — the #1 VPN out of over 350 providers we've tested. It has military-grade encryption and privacy features that will ensure your digital security, plus — it's currently offering 82% off.
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