Chromebooks run Chrome OS, which means VPN support works differently than on Windows or Mac. You can install VPNs as Chrome extensions, Android apps from the Play Store, or even Linux apps. We tested the top VPNs on Chrome OS for speed, ease of setup, and compatibility. NordVPN takes the top spot with its purpose-built Chrome extension and fast NordLynx protocol, followed by ExpressVPN for beginners, Surfshark for budget users, and CyberGhost for streaming.
Chromebooks don't run traditional desktop VPN software. Instead, you get three installation paths: a Chrome extension (lightweight, browser-only protection), an Android app from the Play Store (system-wide VPN, same as on a phone), or a Linux app (for advanced users). The best VPNs for Chromebook support at least two of these — ideally a solid Android app for full-device encryption and a Chrome extension for quick browser control.
We evaluated each VPN on speed (WireGuard or equivalent protocol), ease of installation on Chrome OS, and device limits. Here's what we found.
NordVPN is our top pick because of its stand-out Chromebook support.1 It offers a purpose-built Chrome extension and a fully-featured Android app from the Play Store, giving you both browser-level and system-wide protection. The NordLynx protocol (based on WireGuard) delivers excellent speeds, and Threat Protection blocks trackers and malicious sites before they load. Setup takes under two minutes.
ExpressVPN's Chrome extension sets the standard for user-friendly VPN interfaces on Chrome OS.3 The Android app is equally polished, with a clean one-click connect button and reliable connection stability. If you want something that just works without tweaking settings, this is it. Speeds are consistently fast, and the network of 3,000+ servers in 94 countries means you'll almost always find a nearby server.
Surfshark is the best cheap VPN provider for Chromebook users.2 The standout feature is unlimited simultaneous connections — share it with your whole household. It's also one of the fastest VPNs on our list thanks to WireGuard support, and the Android app is feature-rich with CleanWeb (ad/tracker blocking) and a built-in GPS spoofing tool. For the price, it's hard to beat.
If your Chromebook doubles as a media machine, CyberGhost is worth a look. It offers specialized servers optimized for streaming platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+, plus dedicated gaming servers. The Android app is straightforward to install, and with 7 simultaneous connections, it covers your phone and tablet too. Not the fastest on raw speed, but reliable for unblocking content.
| Feature | NordVPN | ExpressVPN | Surfshark | CyberGhost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speed | Very fast (NordLynx) | Fast (Lightway) | Very fast (WireGuard) | Good (WireGuard) |
| Installation | Extension + Android app | Extension + Android app | Android app | Android app |
| Device limit | 10 | 8 | Unlimited | 7 |
App compatibility matters most. A Chrome extension alone only encrypts browser traffic — your Android apps, Linux apps, and system traffic remain exposed. Look for a VPN with a solid Android app from the Play Store, which gives system-wide protection. Ideally, the VPN also offers a Chrome extension for quick toggling and split-tunneling control.
Protocol performance. WireGuard (or NordVPN's NordLynx variant) is the gold standard on Chrome OS. It's significantly faster than OpenVPN and uses less battery, which matters on Chromebooks with limited hardware. All four picks above support WireGuard or a proprietary equivalent.2
Device limits. Chromebooks are often shared devices or part of a multi-device household. Surfshark's unlimited connections are a clear win here, but NordVPN's 10-device limit is generous enough for most families.
Disclosure: As an affiliate, we may earn a commission if you purchase through the links above — at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we've tested and believe deliver real value.
This page was written by the engine and the engine is still on the line. The conversation below picks up where the article stops.
Yes — the picks above are the engine's current verdicts. Ask a sharper version of this question below and you'll get a custom answer with the latest pricing.