Does ExpressVPN work in China? Looking for the best VPN for China? We are VPN testers based in China and have tested ExpressVPN’s performance here. Read our ExpressVPN China review for real test results and answers to “Does ExpressVPN work in China?” and more.
Does ExpressVPN work in China? In this review, we share results from real-world ExpressVPN tests conducted inside China. We cover ExpressVPN’s speed, reliability, pricing, free trial, discounts, software, and customer service to help you decide if it’s a good choice for China. We’ve also tested several other VPN services from within China. If you’re looking for a reliable VPN for China, be sure to check out our list of the Best VPNs for China.
ExpressVPN review in Chinese: ExpressVPN中国评测
- One of the most reliable VPNs for China
- Fast response to VPN blocking in China
- Fast speed, reliable connections
- Many global server locations
- “Connection Per App” split tunneling
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Fast live customer support
- ExpressVPN is priced at the higher end.
Starting Price: $3.49/mo (with discount offer from this link).
Free Trial: 30-day money-back
Simultaneous Connections: 10-14 devices.
Special Discount Offer: Get 4 Months Free from this link (with two-year plan)
ExpressVPN China Website (ExpressVPN China Link):
» Get ExpressVPN (4 month free)
About ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is one of the big names in the VPN industry with worldwide customers. The service is operated by Express Technologies Ltd., registered in the British Virgin Islands, and since 2021 has been owned by Kape Technologies, a British-Israeli digital privacy company. If you are looking for a reliable big brand VPN provider, you should definitely consider ExpressVPN.
Does Express Work in China?
Does ExpressVPN work in China? Yes, when set up properly, ExpressVPN generally works well in China and remains one of the most reliable VPN choices for bypassing the Great Firewall. However, users should be aware that during periods of heavy government censorship or major political events, VPN connections (including ExpressVPN) may experience temporary disruptions or outages. These issues are typically resolved quickly, with service restored after a short downtime.
It’s important to note that the main ExpressVPN website is blocked in China, and app stores often restrict VPN downloads. If you are planning to travel to China, make sure to register your account and install ExpressVPN on all your devices before your trip. Once ExpressVPN is installed and configured, it can provide fast, secure, and stable access to blocked sites and services from within China.
ExpressVPN China: How ExpressVPN Overcomes VPN Blocking
ExpressVPN employs a robust strategy to keep its service working in China, despite the ever-changing tactics of the Great Firewall. The company is known for its fast response to new censorship measures, frequently releasing software updates and adjustments to maintain connectivity.
A standout feature is ExpressVPN’s proprietary Lightway protocol, which is designed to deliver speed and reliability even in restrictive environments. Combined with advanced obfuscation technology, ExpressVPN disguises VPN traffic as regular internet activity, making it more difficult for Chinese internet controls to detect and block connections.
For users in China, ExpressVPN offers a network of specially optimized servers in nearby regions such as Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, and the US West Coast. These servers are configured for better reliability and performance when connecting from China.
ExpressVPN also backs its technology with excellent customer service. Their 24/7 live chat and email support quickly assist users with connection issues, provide updated mirror links, and recommend the best server and protocol settings for China. This ongoing commitment to user support and technical innovation makes ExpressVPN one of the most dependable VPNs for navigating China’s internet restrictions.
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ExpressVPN for China: Key Features
Global Server Network
ExpressVPN offers servers in 105 countries and 160 locations, including optimized servers near China (Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, Los Angeles, UK, France). This wide network helps users in China find reliable connections for bypassing the Great Firewall and accessing popular sites like Google, YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, and ChatGPT.
Unlimited Speed & Bandwidth
All ExpressVPN users enjoy unlimited bandwidth and top-tier speeds, which is especially valuable in China where stable connections can be challenging.
Advanced VPN Protocols (Including Lightway)
ExpressVPN supports multiple protocols: OpenVPN (TCP/UDP), Lightway, IKEv2, L2TP/IPsec, and more. Lightway is engineered for speed, reliability, and evading censorship, making it highly effective for users in China. For best results, set the protocol to “Automatic” so ExpressVPN can select the optimal option for your network.
TrustedServer Technology
ExpressVPN’s TrustedServer system ensures all servers run entirely on RAM and never write data to hard drives. Every server reboot wipes all data, greatly enhancing privacy—a critical advantage for users in China.
No-Logs Policy
ExpressVPN operates under a strict no-logs policy, independently audited by third parties. Your online activities are not recorded, providing peace of mind for privacy-conscious users.
Private DNS on Every Server
Each ExpressVPN server runs its own private, encrypted DNS, protecting your DNS requests from being monitored or tampered with. This is important for users in restrictive environments like China.
Network Lock (Kill Switch)
The Network Lock feature protects your data if the VPN connection drops by blocking all internet traffic until the VPN is restored. This is essential for maintaining privacy and avoiding leaks in China.
Split Tunneling
ExpressVPN’s split tunneling allows you to choose which apps or devices use the VPN and which access the internet directly. For China users, this means you can unblock overseas sites with the VPN while keeping local apps (like WeChat, Taobao or Baidu Cloud) outside the tunnel for better speed and convenience.
Multi-Platform Support & Multi-Device Connections
ExpressVPN has user-friendly apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, smart TVs, and routers. You can connect up to 8 devices simultaneously, making it convenient for families or users with multiple devices in China.
Browser Extensions
ExpressVPN provides browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge, making it easy to control your VPN connection directly from your browser.
Streaming & P2P
ExpressVPN reliably unblocks Netflix (US and other regions), YouTube, and other geo-restricted platforms. It also supports P2P and torrenting, with high speeds and strong privacy.
Threat Manager, Ad Blocker, and Password Manager
ExpressVPN includes Threat Manager to block trackers and malicious sites, an ad blocker to enhance browsing speed and privacy, and ExpressVPN Keys, a built-in password manager. These features add extra security for users in China.
Regular Updates
ExpressVPN frequently updates its software to adapt to new censorship tactics in China. Keeping your app up to date is essential for maintaining access.
These features make ExpressVPN one of the most robust and reliable VPNs for users in China, balancing speed, privacy, and the ability to bypass tough internet restrictions.
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How to Get ExpressVPN in China
How to Get ExpressVPN in China
If you can see this page, you’re likely either outside China or already using a VPN from within China (since this website is blocked in China). If so, signing up for ExpressVPN is as easy as clicking this link (special discount inside). However, for most internet users in China, ExpressVPN’s main website is blocked, making it difficult to sign up directly. Here are some ways to get around this problem:
- Use mirrored websites. ExpressVPN sometimes provides mirror sites with different URLs that aren’t blocked in China. You can request a working mirror link by emailing ExpressVPN support or asking a friend outside China to contact ExpressVPN’s customer service and send you the link.
- Ask a friend outside China to sign up for you. They can create an account, pay for the subscription, and send you the login details and installation files. You can reimburse them via PayPal, bank transfer, or cryptocurrencies.
- Use a free proxy or VPN to visit ExpressVPN’s website. Free proxies and VPNs are often unreliable and easily blocked, but if you find one that works, you can use it as a temporary way to access ExpressVPN’s website and sign up.
- (Android users) Email ExpressVPN for the .apk app. If you have an active ExpressVPN subscription and use Android, you can request the latest .apk installation file directly from ExpressVPN’s support. Avoid downloading .apk files from unofficial sources, as they may be unsafe.
ExpressVPN for China: Price & Free Trial
ExpressVPN Price Plans:
ExpressVPN’s pricing and plan structure stayed the same for a long period. In September 2025, ExpressVPN launched a new subscription system with three options: Basic, Advanced, and Pro. Each plan now comes with updated features and pricing for users to choose according to their needs.
- Basic Plan: Covers up to 10 devices, includes all core VPN features (Lightway protocol, TrustedServer, no-logs policy). Starts at $3.49/month for a 2-year plan.
- Advanced Plan: Adds a password manager, 3 days of unlimited eSIM data in 100+ countries, advanced protection, identity monitoring with fraud alerts, 12 device connections, and up to 50% off Aircove. Starts at $4.49/month for a 2-year plan.
- Pro Plan: Includes everything in Advanced, plus 5 days of unlimited eSIM data, monthly credit reports, dedicated IP, data removal, 14 device connections, and up to 75% off Aircove. Starts at $7.49/month for a 2-year plan.
ExpressVPN Special Discount:
Click on this link to get the ExpressVPN special deal.
ExpressVPN offers discounts based on your subscription period. The longest-term plans provide the lowest monthly rates. For example, the Basic plan starts at $3.49/month, Advanced at $4.49/month, and Pro at $7.49/month when you choose a 2-year subscription. Shorter subscription periods come with higher monthly costs, so opting for a longer commitment gives you the best value.
Below is the prices for 1-month subscription period:
Below is the prices for two-year subscription period:
Click on this link to get the ExpressVPN special deal.
ExpressVPN’s Payment Methods:
ExpressVPN supports a wide variety of payment methods. You can pay using major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, JCB, Diners Club, and more), PayPal, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. Prepaid and debit cards are also accepted, including Maestro, Mint, and others. For those who prefer extra privacy, ExpressVPN accepts Bitcoin and several other cryptocurrencies via BitPay.
ExpressVPN’s Free Trial and Money-Back Guarantee
While ExpressVPN does not offer a traditional free trial, it provides a 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans. This means you can try ExpressVPN risk-free for 30 days, and if you’re not satisfied for any reason, you can request a full refund with no questions asked. This policy effectively serves as a hassle-free free trial and is more generous than what most other VPN providers offer.
ExpressVPN for China: Software and Apps
ExpressVPN offers apps for a wide range of platforms, including Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, PlayStation, Xbox, and supported routers. For devices that do not support the app directly, ExpressVPN provides setup instructions for manual configuration. This allows users in China to install and use the VPN on most common devices.
ExpressVPN’s Desktop Software:
We downloaded the desktop client for Mac OS. The installation process was straightforward, and the software interface is simple and easy to navigate.
With the desktop application, you can connect or disconnect from the VPN, change server locations, and switch between different connection protocols.
When ExpressVPN is running, an icon appears in the menu bar (or system tray on Windows), showing your current connection status.
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ExpressVPN‘s Android App:
For Android devices, ExpressVPN offers an app that can be downloaded from the Google Play Store or directly as an APK file from the ExpressVPN website. We installed the app on an Android phone. After logging in, users can select from a list of server locations, with recommended servers highlighted. The app also includes a ping test feature to help users find the closest or fastest server. When connected to ExpressVPN’s Hong Kong server, we were able to access blocked content such as Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube without issues. Video streaming, including YouTube playback, worked smoothly during our test.
ExpressVPN‘s iPhone App
ExpressVPN also provides an app for iOS, available through the App Store. We installed the app on an iPhone for testing. The iOS app interface differs from the Android version and includes a map that displays your current location and available VPN server locations. When connecting to a server, the app shows an animated line between your location and the server. We successfully connected to ExpressVPN’s Hong Kong server, and the VPN icon appeared at the top of the iPhone screen to indicate an active connection. With ExpressVPN enabled, we were able to access blocked sites like YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter from within China. Video streaming, including YouTube playback, was smooth during our test.
ExpressVPN for China: ExpressVPN Routers
ExpressVPN can also be setup on a compatible Wifi router. ExpressVPN even provides a VPN router app that can be installed on some supported router models. If you are interested, please read our ExpressVPN Router Review.
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Express VPN for China: Customer Support
When you visit ExpressVPN’s website, you will see a live chat box, which allows you to connect to a customer support representative directly round-the-clock. We tried chatting with ExpressVPN’s support team on a number of occasions. Every time we were able to talk to someone within one minute after I initiated the chat session, and their customer support representative seemed to quite helpful and know that they are doing. As a matter of fact, we think ExpressVPN’s customer support is probably one the best among the ones we have tested.
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Tips for Using ExpressVPN in China
- Take advantage of ExpressVPN’s 30-day money back guarantee. You can try ExpressVPN for free for 30 days. If it doesn’t work or if you don’t like it, you can cancel your subscription within 30 days to get a full refund.
- For VPN protocol, choose the “automatic” option to let the ExpressVPN software to pick the best VPN protocol based on your current situation.
- For VPN servers, choose the ones recommended by ExpressVPN. ExpressVPN has some dedicated servers that are optimized for China users. Those servers are usually located in Hong Kong, Japan or LA and are more stable during China’s VPN blocking. You can find a list of these servers when you open ExpressVPN’s software, or you can contact ExpressVPN’s customer support to ask.
- Update your VPN software/app on a regular basis. To deal with China’s VPN blocking, ExpressVPN rolls out VPN software/app updates very often. You should always use the most updated version to make sure you can defeat China’s VPN blocking.
- If your ExpressVPN connection is blocked, try the followings:
- Make sure your software/app is the most updated version.
- Make sure you are using the “automatic” protocol.
- Switch to a difference server (choosing from from the list recommended by ExpressVPN).
- Contact ExpressVPN’s customer support via Live Chat or visit its support page for status updates and unblocking tips.
ExpressVPN for China: FAQs
The Great Firewall of China not only blocks foreign websites, but also blocks VPN services. As a result, most VPNs don’t work in China. However, despite China’s heavy VPN blocking, ExpressVPN currently still work well in China.
Due to China’s website blocking, the main website of ExpressVPN is blocked in China. ExpressVPN has set up some alternative domain names for users in China to access its service. Once you have signed up an ExpressVPN account, you can follow the instructions provided by ExpressVPN to set up VPN by installing its desktop software or mobile apps. You can also set up ExpressVPN manually on computers, mobile platforms and even Wifi routers.
If you need only core VPN features and want the lowest price, the Basic plan is sufficient for most users. The Advanced plan adds extra privacy tools like a password manager, eSIM data, and more device connections—ideal if you want enhanced security and flexibility. The Pro plan includes everything in Advanced, plus dedicated IP, data removal services, and the highest device limit, making it best for users with advanced privacy needs or many devices. Choose the plan that matches your budget and requirements.
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Yes, you can use ExpressVPN to access AI tools such as ChatGPT and Gemini from China. To do this, connect to a server in a country where these AI services are available (for example, the United States, Japan, or Singapore). Note that some AI platforms, including ChatGPT and Gemini, restrict access from mainland China and Hong Kong, so it’s important to select a supported server location for reliable access.
The Great Firewall of China has been trying to blocking all VPN services. Although ExpressVPN works most of the time in China, sometimes during heavy VPN blocking, it might stop working for a short period of time. When this happens, usually the ExpressVPN team is aware of this situation and can solve the problem and get it working again very soon. As a user, you should check ExpressVPN’s announcement and also make sure to upgrade your software/app to the latest version. You can also contact ExpressVPN’s live support to get your problem solved.
Under pressure from the Chinese government, Apple removed almost all VPN apps from the Chinese version of its app store a few years ago. If you’re using an iOS device, you can temporarily change the region of your Apple account to another country (e.g. USA), or temporarily switch to another Apple account belonging to another country, and download and install the ExpressVPN app. Then you can revert back to the original account.
ExpressVPN’s Android app is not found in the Android App Store in mainland China, but you can install ExpressVPN’s Android app by downloading the APK file directly from ExpressVPN’s official website.
When you purchase ExpressVPN, a single account allows you to use it on up to 10-14 devices at the same time (depending on plan, including computers, tablets, and other devices). If you still want to connect more devices, consider setting up ExpressVPN on your router (see our review for ExpressVPN router) so that all the devices connected to this router (unlimited number of them) can now all use ExpressVPN at the same time.
Express VPN for China: Review Conclusion
ExpressVPN is a well-known VPN provider and with many customers. Users can sign up for their service from China and their VPN service work well in China. Their 30-day money-back guarantee offer is generous and their customer support is very fast and helpful. Among all VPN providers we have tested, ExpressVPN really stands out with reliable connections, fast speed and excellent customer supports, as well as quick responses to China’s ongoing VPN blocking. Based on our tests, we recommend this VPN provider and have included it in our Best VPNs for China list.
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If you are looking for a reliable VPN services to be used in China, Please make sure to read our list of Best VPNs for China.
