If you’re in a region where Zoom is restricted, you need to get your hands on a VPN right now!
And CyberGhost VPN is hands down the best VPN for Zoom.
The testing took a while, but I prepared an exhaustive review covering all the basics to help you make the right choice.
Overall, CyberGhost topped the list for its affordability, huge number of servers, and quick installation process.
The best part?
You can use it on Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows.
On top of that, I included other capable alternatives, like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Private Internet Access, and Surfshark.
So, strap yourself in and read this quick post to know what VPN to use for your next Zoom call.
Top 3 VPNs for Zoom (April, 2024)
In this piece, I’ll look at 5 VPNs that made the cut, including their core features, pros and cons, and the factors to consider when making the final decision.
In the same way, I’ll briefly highlight how you can set up a VPN for Zoom and finally wrap things up with common FAQs that should help clarify some important issues.
Your Zoom meetings should be a breeze by the end.
Top 5 VPNs for Zoom at a Glance
In this detailed guide, I evaluate each VPN listed below to paint an accurate picture of how they are suitable for Zoom.
Here is a quick look if you’re in a rush:
- CyberGhost VPN – Best Overall for Zoom (High-Level Encryption + User-Friendly)
- ExpressVPN – Most Secure With Advanced IP Masking
- NordVPN – Fastest for Zoom With Double VPN Security
- Private Internet Access – Broadest Server Reach for Bypassing IP Restrictions
- Surfshark – Best for Multiple Devices With Affordable Prices
Our Best VPNs for Zoom
1. CyberGhost VPN - Best Overall for Zoom (High-Level Encryption + User Friendly)
CORE FEATURES | |
256-bit AES encryption | 7000+ global servers |
24/7 Customer Support | Support for up to 7 devices |
Automated kill switch | Ad Blocking |
Unlimited bandwidth | P2P sharing |
High speeds | DNS/IP leak protection |
Balance is what you need when choosing a VPN for Zoom, and based on our tests, Romanian VPN provider CyberGhost VPN performed spectacularly.
While others delivered high scores in certain areas, CyberGhost showed consistency.
That’s a valuable asset, especially when the affordable pricing plan comes into the picture.
Additionally, Cyberghost servers are reliably fast.
There’s no buffering while conducting a Zoom meeting.
The sound and videos are clear enough to catch every word in real-time.
But the main feature that should get your attention is its ability to bypass geo-restrictions.
Furthermore, Cyberghost comes with military-grade encryption that combines with its zero-logging policy to ensure you’re hidden during your Zoom session.
The icing on the cake is the kill switch that protects your IP address from being exposed if the VPN connection drops without warning.
This fantastic VPN is also the only one on this list that offers a 45-day money-back guarantee; that’s 15 more days than the other four VPNs.
At the same time, you’ll get over 7000 reliable servers by the last count.
That’s more than what the other alternatives have to offer.
The closest competitor on this list is NordVPN, which has over 5100 servers.
Another notable CyberGhost feature is the round-the-clock customer support.
You can quickly contact customer support through Live Chat or email if you run into any issues.
Additionally, CyberGhost is a multi-platform VPN, meaning you can comfortably hold your Zoom session on your Android phone, iOS device, Mac, or Windows PC.
All you need is a stable internet connection.
At the same time, CyberGhost has an obfuscation feature through its NoSpy servers.
However, you’ll have to pay extra to get that.
You can also use it on up to 7 devices, and that’s more than enough to handle your Zoom needs.
On the flip side, there are some undesirable issues like the lack of a third-party audit and a free version.
However, you get a Free Trial and a 45-day money-back guarantee.
These make things a little better.
Otherwise, CyberGhost posted better results than the rest in my tests, and I highly recommend it.
Pros
- Great speeds
- 7 simultaneous connections
- Well-distributed servers
- Allows access to restricted websites
- Solid privacy protection
- Multiple platform support
Cons
- Lack of third-party audit
- No free version
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2. ExpressVPN - Most Secure With Advanced IP Masking
CORE FEATURES | |
256-bit AES encryption | 3000+ global servers in 94 nations |
24/7 Live Chat support | Anonymous browsing |
Network Lock kill switch | IP address masking |
TrustedServer technology | Private DNS |
High speeds | 5 simultaneous connections |
Next up is ExpressVPN, another powerful option if you need to hold a Zoom call in a region that has restricted the service.
ExpressVPN would top any other list, thanks to a myriad of advanced features that surpass most VPNs in the market right now.
You can access any blocked content and websites worldwide, no matter how remote.
This is a great asset when Zoom is at play.
Equally important, ExpressVPN had impressive results throughout my speed, security, and overall performance tests.
In addition to the amazing security features, ExpressVPN has split tunneling capabilities that you can use for up to 5 simultaneous connections.
Although the pricing might be a little too high based on the going market rates, it does counter that with a performance that rivals other options on this list.
ExpressVPN is compatible with Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows.
It can also be used directly on Google Chrome and Mozilla browsers via extensions.
All you need is a good internet connection to enjoy an uninterrupted Zoom session on any device at your disposal.
The only major drawback is the high price tag.
Fortunately, there are great discounts that ExpressVPN is offering that you can take advantage of.
Pros
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Anti-Malware plus tracking
- No logs
- Allows access to restricted websites
- Quick DNS queries
- State-of-the-art security
Cons
- Expensive
Try ExpressVPN Now
3. NordVPN - Fastest for Zoom With Double VPN Security
CORE FEATURES | |
256-bit AES encryption | 5000 global servers in 59 countries |
24/7 customer support | Uninterrupted video calls |
Reliable kill switch | Double VPN protection |
CyberSec ad blocker | Dedicated IP |
Very High speeds | 6 simultaneous connections |
This list would be incomplete without NordVPN.
It’s one of the fastest and most popular VPNs that will handle all your Zoom needs in regions with restrictions.
It scored highly on every test, especially its speed.
NordVPN has multiple servers spread across 59 countries, providing users with ample options to choose the server that works best for their needs.
The speeds are off the charts, handling all Zoom calls with the highest clarity without buffering and stuttering.
In addition, NordVPN takes security and privacy seriously.
It has double VPN protection that makes your Zoom connections twice as safe.
Hackers and trackers will have to work extra hard to sniff your location.
You don’t have to worry about your data, either.
NordVPN never logs anything from your internet activity, and when combined with the kill switch feature, you’re assured of high-level protection that seals all potential data leaks.
With the affordable basic plan, you get an array of premium features that will grant you an amazing experience with Zoom teleconferencing.
You can even have a dedicated IP address feature for a private virtual address at an extra fee.
Fast as it may be, there are instances where the connection speeds dropped, leading to buffering.
Overall, there’s not much to complain about.
Another important aspect worth mentioning is CyberSec.
It’s an aggressive ad blocker that’ll keep all the frustrating ads at bay, giving you the luxury to have smooth and uninterrupted Zoom sessions.
Furthermore, you’ll have customer support at your beck and call 24/7.
There’s absolutely no reason you shouldn’t go for NordVPN when given a chance.
I know I would.
Pros
- State-of-the-art security
- Extremely high speeds
- Aggressive ad blocker
- Cost-effective
- Accepts cryptocurrency payments
- Double VPN
Cons
- App connections are slow
Try NordVPN Now
4. PIA - Broadest Server Reach for Bypassing IP Restrictions
CORE FEATURES | |
256-bit AES encryption | 30,000+ global servers in 78 countries |
24/7 Live Chat support | Easy configurations |
Great kill switch | IP address masking |
Built-in adblocker | WireGuard support |
High speeds | 10 simultaneous connections |
Third on our list is Private Internet Access, which scored highly in server reach and security features, making it a reliable Zoom VPN.
Based in America, PIA has solid AES-256 encryption that protects you from hackers or snoopers looking to zero in on your location when using Zoom.
You also get a kill switch that prevents your IP address from being leaked if the connection to the VPN drops mid-session.
The connection speeds are highly reliable.
I didn’t experience any stuttering or buffering throughout my tests.
However, compared to NordVPN and ExpressVPN, I felt like the connection speeds could do better, and hopefully, PIA will improve on that in the future.
On top of that, the VPN has a clean user interface that makes navigation easy and seamless, which is a plus if you’re using a VPN for Zoom for the first time.
There are over 30,000 VPN servers and still growing, the highest on this list.
However, that is the last known server number with no updated information on the latest figure.
For this reason, I felt it wouldn’t be accurate to place PIA at the top based on the server count.
Additionally, as far as compatibility is concerned, Private Internet Access can be used on all PCs and mobile devices, increasing convenience and flexibility.
With PIA, you can connect up to 10 devices on a single subscription.
Furthermore, a 30-day refund policy gives you ample time to run all the tests you need before making that final decision.
For those concerned about their privacy, I can assure you that PIA is backed by a court-proven no-logs policy that means all your internet usage remains private.
The only drawback I experienced was the connection speeds.
Video calls on Zoom were stable for the most part, but there’s room for improvement for the speeds.
Pros
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- User-friendly
- Flexible encryption options
- Allows access to restricted websites
- Broad server farm
- Affordable plans
Cons
- Could be faster
Try Private Internet Access Now
5. Surfshark - Best for Multiple Devices With Affordable Prices
CORE FEATURES | |
256-bit AES encryption | 3200 global servers in 65 countries |
24/7 Live Chat support | Camouflage mode |
Reliable kill switch | Private DNS & leak protection |
Built-in adblocker | Bypasses restricted sites |
High speeds | Unlimited simultaneous connections |
Surfshark may lack an extensive server database compared to some VPNs on this list, but it more than makes up for it with other features suited for Zoom calls.
For example, Surfshark has the right balance of security, multi-platform compatibility, and ease of use, three attributes that should shift your interest from other options.
It also makes use of the market standard 256-bit AES encryption that secures your data from any unauthorized snooping or access, no matter the location you’re holding the Zoom conference call from.
Moreover, Surfshark is compatible with Linux, Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Chrome, Firefox, and Fire TV.
In addition, you get an effective kill switch that kills the internet when the VPN connection drops.
Another unique feature is the Whitelister that allows specific apps and websites to connect to the internet directly without the VPN while channeling others through the VPN.
A convenient feature if you only want to use the VPN for Zoom without affecting other apps and sites.
Additionally, Surfshark has a solid inbuilt ad blocker that stops annoying ads from popping up in the middle of your Zoom call.
An essential feature for keeping interruptions at bay.
Customer support is also solid, with a 24/7 service to provide you with all the troubleshooting steps if you run into problems.
Also, Surfshark is affordable and cost-effective, all features considered.
You get a 30-day money-back guarantee on top of this incredible discount, giving you peace of mind to test the VPN before making a purchase.
The lack of split tunneling in iOS was a huge disappointment since Zoom is much clearer on iPhones.
It would have been good for the overall experience to have that on iOS.
There are great deals right now on Surfshark that you should check out before deciding.
Pros
- Secure and private connections
- Multi-hop connectivity
- Multiple platform support
- Allows access to restricted websites
- High speeds
- Reliable global server presence
Cons
- Lack of split-tunneling on iOS
Try Surfshark Now
Choosing a VPN for Zoom: Factors to Consider
You have your 5 best VPN services for Zoom.
The number may be narrowed down, but selecting the best one can be tricky, especially when considering all the features we just outlined.
So, how do you make up your mind?
The following is a quick but detailed analysis of the factors to consider:
- Ability to Unblock Zoom – The reason you need a VPN service in the first place is to unblock Zoom. The VPN should bypass Zoom restrictions without being detected. If the VPN can unblock other geo-locked services, the better for you.
- Speed – High speeds are the bread and butter of communication platforms like Zoom. You need a VPN with high connectivity speeds that don’t stutter or buffer in the middle of a Zoom call. Fast speeds are the difference between having a smooth session and one that drops connections every few seconds.
- Encryption Level – Security and privacy are paramount when using Zoom in regions where it is banned. You have a good reason to be paranoid over your online safety when using Zoom in these places. You need a VPN that goes the extra mile by providing high-level encryption to mask your online footprint for your peace of mind.
- Your Budget –VPNs come at varying prices, and it’s up to you to choose something that fits your budget while providing you with the capabilities to use Zoom despite the bans. ExpressVPN is among the costliest, but it packs impressive features worth considering. NordVPN is affordable and can handle all your basic needs. However, you need to balance costs and features to avoid spending more than you need to.
- Multi-Platform Support – The flexibility of multi-platform support can’t be stressed enough. Speeds vary from one device to another and having the freedom to choose any will further enhance your Zoom video calls. The more platforms a VPN can run on, the better for you.
Interesting Reads:
How Do You Set Up a VPN for Zoom?
There’s nothing sophisticated with setting up VPNs for Zoom.
The following is a quick and generalized process you can refer to, depending on the VPN of your choice.
- Select a VPN based on the performance parameters outlined above.
- Choose your preferred subscription plan.
- Download and install the VPN software on your preferred device.
- Log in to the VPN.
- Select your preferred server from the available locations and minimize the VPN. Don’t close it.
- Launch Zoom and start conducting video calls.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a VPN Necessary to Use Zoom in China?
China has not blocked Zoom.
However, its usage comes with limitations.
As of August 2020, Zoom switched to a partner-only model.
With these new rules, you can join Zoom only as a participant, but you can’t start your meetings in mainland China.
Additionally, any Zoom invites with international links like Zoom.us automatically redirect to Zoom.com.cn since the former is blocked in China.
This is why you need a VPN to use Zoom and access all the features.
Can I Use a Free VPN for Zoom?
You can use a free VPN for Zoom.
However, the experience will be limited because you won’t have access to vital features that can only be found in paid versions of the VPN you may be using.
What Countries Have Blocked Zoom?
As of January 2022, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Syria, Ukraine, Belarus, and a host of other nations that you can check here in full have restricted Zoom.
Will a VPN Slow Down Zoom?
The connection speeds have more to do with your internet base speeds than the VPN you’re using for Zoom.
However, some factors can slightly slow down Zoom where a VPN is involved.
They Include firewall settings that may not allow some VPN connections, the distance between you and the server, and overcrowding in that particular server location.
The difference between your base internet speeds and VPN speeds rarely deviates if you’re using a reliable VPN provider.
Conclusion
There you have it, an exhaustive analysis of the best VPNs for Zoom.
Choosing any of the 5 outlined options will give you what you need by keeping you safe from snooping, boosting the connection speeds, and bypassing any geo-restrictions.
Although all VPNs here are highly capable, CyberGhost remains my top recommendation.
It’s a hassle-free software that impressed me, and I know you’ll also arrive at the same conclusion.
Get your hands on a fantastic CyberGhost discount right now!
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