Looking to enhance your online privacy and bypass censorship in Singapore? A virtual private network (VPN) is an essential tool for any internet user in the country. This comprehensive guide will cover our top recommendations for the best VPN services to use in Singapore this year.
As online privacy experts at AllAboutCookies, we reviewed over 15 leading VPNs before selecting the top three picks below based on security, speeds, ability to access blocked content and more. Read on for in-depth analysis on the best VPN options for Singapore residents and visitors in 2025.
An Introduction to VPNs
Before diving into the recommendations, let‘s first understand what exactly a VPN is and why internet users in Singapore can benefit from using one.
A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, encrypts your internet connection and routes it through remote servers run by the VPN provider. This masks your real IP address, hiding your identity and online activities from your internet service provider (ISP), government, hackers and other snoops.
When you use a Singapore VPN server, your traffic appears to be coming from Singapore rather than your actual location. This allows bypassing of geographical blocks to access region-restricted sites and content.
VPNs make use of different protocols to encrypt data like OpenVPN, IKEv2 and WireGuard. Features like a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and malware filters further enhance security.
Some key reasons residents and visitors use a VPN in Singapore include:
- Bypass censorship – Access blocked news, social media and other sites flagged by regulators
- Secure public Wi-Fi – Encrypt connections on insecure public hotspots to prevent hacking
- Privacy from ISPs – Prevent internet providers from tracking your online activities and selling data
- Remote work security – VPNs protect company data and networks when employees work from home
- Unblock global streaming sites – Access US Netflix, Hulu, Disney+ and more not available locally
Why VPN Usage is On the Rise in Singapore
Singapore has some of the most heavy-handed internet censorship policies globally. The government closely monitors online activity and blocks sites or content deemed controversial.
Some statistics that highlight increasing VPN adoption:
- There were 140 website blocks ordered in 2020, up from just 50 in 2019 [Censorship in Singapore, Wikipedia]
- 78% of content takedown requests to Google in 2021 came from the Singapore government [Google Transparency Report]
- Virtual Private Network search interest in Singapore is up over 40% compared to 5 years ago [Google Trends]
With tightening restrictions, harsh penalties for violations, and growing data privacy concerns, it‘s no surprise more citizens and residents are turning to VPNs daily for an added layer of security.
Top 3 VPN Recommendations for Singapore
Based on extensive testing across various criteria, we recommend these top 3 VPNs for use in Singapore:
- NordVPN – Best overall VPN for security and speeds
- ExpressVPN – Fastest speeds for streaming & unblocking sites
- Surfshark – Most affordable full-featured VPN
We‘ll compare the key aspects of each pick below to help you decide which VPN is right for your needs.
An In-Depth Comparison
| VPN | NordVPN | ExpressVPN | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $3.29/month | $8.32/month | $2.49/month |
| Servers | 5,400+ | 3,000+ | 3,200+ |
| Countries | 60+ | 94 | 100+ |
| Max Connections | 6 devices | 5 devices | Unlimited |
| Protocols | OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, NordLynx | OpenVPN, L2TP, IKEv2, Lightway | OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec, WireGuard |
| Apps | Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux | Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, Routers | Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome & Firefox browser extensions |
| Unblocks Netflix | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Money-back guarantee | 30 days | 30 days | 30 days |
#1 NordVPN – Ideal for Security and Speed
NordVPN tops our list of the best VPN services for Singapore users who prioritize security and fast connection speeds.
Some standout features include:
- Next-gen encryption – Uses NordLynx protocol based on WireGuard for rapid speeds and bulletproof security.
- 5,400+ servers – Huge server network across 60 countries ensures you find a fast connection.
- 6 device connections – Allows securing all your devices from smartphones to media consoles.
- Zero logs policy – Strictly does not monitor or store any user activity logs or data.
- CyberSec tool – Automatically blocks dangerous sites and ads for improved online protection.
- Unblocks Netflix – Easily bypass geo-restrictions to stream shows on Netflix Singapore, US and other libraries.
With top-notch security, great speeds, and extensive platform support, NordVPN is a savvy choice for Singapore.
#2 ExpressVPN – Fastest Speeds for HD Streaming & Gaming
ExpressVPN is the VPN of choice for users who put a premium on blazing fast connection speeds and reliability.
Key highlights include:
- Lightway protocol – Provides ultra-fast speeds for 4K streaming and lag-free online gaming.
- 3,000+ servers – Global server network across 94 countries for flexible connections.
- Unblocks Netflix, Prime Video – Easily bypass geo-blocks on popular streaming sites.
- Masks location – Allows spoofing your location to anywhere in ExpressVPN‘s server network.
- 24/7 live chat support – Quickly get help from knowledgeable support agents.
- No activity or connection logs – True no-logs policy safeguards privacy.
From unblocking sites like Netflix USA to reducing lag when gaming online, ExpressVPN is the fast VPN of choice for Singapore.
#3 Surfshark – Budget-Friendly VPN
Surfshark offers a compelling blend of affordability plus robust security, making it the top budget pick for Singapore.
Why choose Surfshark?
- Low pricing – Plans start at just $2.49 a month – among the cheapest on the market.
- Unlimited device support – Use on as many devices as you want at no extra cost.
- Bypasses censorship – Unblock sites restricted in Singapore.
- Multi-hop – Route through two VPN servers for enhanced privacy.
- RAM-only servers – No storage of user data or activity logs.
- Apps – Available for all platforms including Apple TV and Fire TV.
For price-conscious users seeking a full-featured VPN, Surfshark delivers excellent value and all the must-have basics.
Other Notable VPNs
A couple other VPN services that didn‘t make our top 3 are still worthy alternatives:
- Atlas VPN – New VPN gaining popularity for simplicity and competitive pricing.
- ProtonVPN – Operated by privacy-focused ProtonMail. Offers a free VPN plan.
- CyberGhost – Budget VPN with over 7,400 servers worldwide.
Key Factors in Picking the Best VPN for Singapore
Choosing the right VPN involves more than just looking at the price tag. Consider these key factors:
Security Protocols & Encryption
This is the primary job of a VPN, so you want strong standards here. AES-256 bit encryption is ideal, along with protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2 and WireGuard. Features like a kill switch, IPv6 and DNS leak protection, and ad/malware blocking also boost security.
Server Network Size & Locations
More servers in more countries mean more options for faster connections and expanded unblocking abilities. Look for VPNs with at least hundreds of servers globally including nearby choices like Hong Kong and Japan.
Connection Speeds
Using a VPN can slow your internet speed, especially if the provider is overloaded or uses inefficient protocols. Favor VPNs touting ultra-fast connections for smooth 4K streaming and gaming.
Ability to Bypass Geo-Restrictions
Many sites and streaming platforms restrict content based on geographical location. Having access to international versions of Netflix, Hulu, Spotify and news sites for example requires a VPN adept at bypassing geo-blocks.
Privacy Policy
Any reputable VPN will have a clearly stated no-logs policy meaning they don‘t monitor or record your online activity. This prevents user data from being tracked and sold or handed to regulators on request. Mandatory logging is a red flag.
Conclusion: Enhance Your Online Privacy in Singapore with a VPN
We hope this guide gave you a comprehensive overview of the top VPNs to use in Singapore based on factors like security, speeds, ability to bypass censorship, pricing and more.
Our analysis found these three VPN services to be the best options currently:
- 🥇 NordVPN – Robust all-round VPN great for security-minded users
- 🥈 ExpressVPN – Blazing speeds ideal for streaming and gaming
- 🥉 Surfshark – Affordable but full-featured VPN
Boost your online privacy, unblock geo-restricted content, and browse securely on public Wi-Fi with one of these top-rated Singapore VPNs. Don‘t leave your internet connection unprotected – sign up with a recommended VPN provider today!
