Frequently Asked Questions
Best VPN for macOS in 2025
We tested 30+ VPNs on macOS Ventura, Sonoma, and Sequoia. These native apps are optimized for Apple Silicon (M1/M2/M3) with seamless macOS integration.
Top macOS VPNs
NordVPN
Best OverallmacOS 11+
Intel & Apple Silicon
~45MB
$2.99/mo
ExpressVPN
Best SpeedmacOS 11+
Universal Binary
~50MB
$2.44/mo
Surfshark
Best BudgetmacOS 11+
Universal Binary
~40MB
$1.99/mo
Why Use a VPN on macOS?
Apple Silicon Optimized
Native ARM64 apps for M1/M2/M3 chips with minimal battery drain
iCloud Private Relay Alternative
Full VPN protection beyond Apple's limited Private Relay
Safari Extension
One-click VPN control directly from Safari toolbar
Public WiFi Security
Protect your MacBook on coffee shop and airport networks
Keychain Integration
Seamless password management with macOS Keychain
Menubar Widget
Quick access to servers and settings from menubar
macOS Compatibility
| VPN | Ventura | Sonoma | Sequoia | Apple Silicon | App Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | Intel & Apple Silicon | ~45MB | |||
| ExpressVPN | Universal Binary | ~50MB | |||
| Surfshark | Universal Binary | ~40MB |
macOS-Specific Features
Universal Binary Support
Native apps run efficiently on both Intel and Apple Silicon Macs
Safari Extension
Control VPN directly from Safari toolbar without opening the app
Keychain Integration
Securely store credentials using macOS Keychain Access
Shortcuts Integration
Automate VPN connections with macOS Shortcuts app
Network Extension Framework
Deep system integration for reliable VPN connections
Optimized Battery Life
Efficient protocols minimize battery drain on MacBooks
macOS Setup Guide
- 1
Download the VPN app from the official website or Mac App Store
- 2
Install and grant necessary permissions (VPN configuration, notifications)
- 3
Sign in with your account credentials (optionally save to Keychain)
- 4
Install Safari extension from app settings if available
- 5
Configure auto-connect and kill switch in preferences
- 6
Add menubar widget for quick access
Performance Optimization Tips
- Use WireGuard protocol for best M1/M2/M3 performance
- Enable auto-connect for trusted WiFi networks only
- Close VPN app window - menubar widget uses less resources
- Disable features you don't use (ad blocking, split tunneling)
- Connect to nearby servers for lowest latency
- Keep macOS and VPN app updated for latest optimizations
Supported macOS Versions
macOS 15 Sequoia
Full SupportLatest features, best performance on M3 chips
macOS 14 Sonoma
Full SupportExcellent compatibility, widget support
macOS 13 Ventura
Full SupportStable, recommended minimum version
macOS 12 Monterey
Limited SupportWorks but may lack newer features
Secure Your Mac with a Premium VPN
Native macOS apps optimized for Apple Silicon with Safari extensions and Keychain integration.
macOS VPN FAQs
Do these VPNs work on Apple Silicon Macs (M1/M2/M3)?
Yes! All recommended VPNs offer Universal Binary apps that run natively on Apple Silicon (M1, M2, M3) and Intel Macs. They're optimized for performance and battery efficiency on ARM-based processors.
Can I use VPN with iCloud Private Relay?
While you can have both enabled, they may conflict. iCloud Private Relay is limited to Safari only and doesn't encrypt all traffic. A full VPN provides better protection and works across all apps. We recommend disabling Private Relay when using a VPN.
Do I need to download from Mac App Store?
No, downloading directly from the VPN provider's website is recommended. Direct downloads often have more features and faster updates. All our recommended VPNs are notarized by Apple for security.
Will VPN slow down my Mac?
Modern VPNs with WireGuard protocol have minimal impact on M1/M2/M3 Macs. You might see 5-15% speed reduction, but optimized protocols ensure smooth performance for browsing, streaming, and downloads.
Can I use VPN with other Apple devices?
Yes! All recommended VPNs offer apps for iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch. One subscription typically covers 5-10 devices, and settings can sync across devices via your VPN account.
Related Pages
In-depth review of NordVPN's features, performance, and pricing
Comprehensive analysis of ExpressVPN's speed and security
Complete review of Surfshark's unlimited device support
Top VPN apps optimized for iOS devices
VPNs that work best with Netflix, Hulu, and other streaming services
Last updated: November 2025