Whether you're a Canadian native or just there on vacation, a Canada VPN is a handy digital app you can use to unblock shows, movies, and more from around the world.
At TechRadar, we've done our homework, including 28,000 speed tests, 2,200 streaming tests, and more than 100 reviews of the best VPNs around. NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and PIA currently lead the pack when it comes to unblocking power and speedy Canadian servers.
Keep reading, and I'll dig into each provider with a detailed analysis of their performance, stream unblocking, and overall value for money.
5 best VPNs: quick overview
Looking for a quick answer? Check out my rundown of today's top 5 Canada VPNs – and keep scrolling for more info about each provider.
The best Canada VPNs in 2024
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Recent updates
This update saw no significant differences between our top picks, and no new events in the industry for us to report on. As such, we double-checked the pricing, deals, server locations, and unblocking capabilities to make sure the information on this page was as accurate and up-to-date as possible.
The best VPN overall
NordVPN is the cream of the crop and our #1 pick overall – and packs a ton of features into budget-friendly prices (that are half as expensive as its closest rival, ExpressVPN). Plus, it's packed with features designed to give your digital privacy a boost.
There are plenty of servers in Canada to choose from, too, with 480 dotted across the country in key locations like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver. If you want to hop across the border to the States, however, there's a massive network of 1,900 servers available.
Streaming and unblocking
NordVPN is fantastic at unblocking overseas content – and it's my personal favorite Netflix VPN. During my most recent round of tests, I was able to check out international libraries in Canada, the US, and the UK without any hiccups. NordVPN also works like a charm for smaller regional services, which means you can keep up with your favorite shows even if you're making the journey to Canada from overseas.
Read more about NordVPN ▼
App support
You'll be able to use NordVPN on pretty much any device you own thanks to its range of easy-to-use apps. Installation only takes a few clicks and, once you're up and running, connecting to a server is a cinch, too – just tap the big "Connect" button to be paired up with a speedy choice. It is worth noting that the map-based interface can be a bit fiddly to use on smaller screens. It's a nice novelty but, unfortunately, not a very practical one. Surfshark's app interface is a lot cleaner, simpler, and streamlined.
Some users might be disappointed by the number of simultaneous connections offered by NordVPN, too. Six might not be enough to cover a whole household of gadgets, but now that NordVPN has made its Meshnet feature free for all users, it's possible to create a secure private network that secures up to 60 devices at once.
Privacy and security
NordVPN doesn't pull punches when it comes to securing your browsing sessions and personal data. You can count on industry-standard AES-256 encryption that'll prevent third-party snoopers from intercepting your traffic – plus, NordVPN abides by an audited no-logs policy, which is exactly what I like to see.
There's more good news for anyone who does the majority of their shopping online - and, nowadays, who doesn't? AV-Compartives' team of independent auditors put NordVPN's Threat Protection Pro to the test, along with 35 other tools, and found that NordVPN ranked third overall when it came to deterring shopping scams.
Speed
Part of why NordVPN stands out as such a solid streaming companion is because it's seriously quick. Using the WireGuard-based NordLynx protocol, I recorded speeds of 950 Mbps – effectively maxing out my connection. As a result, NordVPN more than earned one of the top spots in our fastest VPN rankings, and you'll be able to leave it switched on as you go about your day-to-day browsing and won't notice that it's running in the background.
NordVPN is my top pick for most users today. You'll get sleek apps for all of your devices, security that has your back whether you're browsing at home or on the go, and access to more streaming platforms than you can shake a stick at. So, if you're looking for a stand-out everyday service, NordVPN is hard to beat. ★★★★★
Read more: NordVPN review
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Apps look great, but can feel busy on some devices | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ease of use | Most features are easy to find and use, though the map interface can be off-putting | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Performance | The quickest VPN I've tested | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Unblocking | Unblocks a wealth of content via Netflix and more | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Security and privacy | Tough encryption, double kill switch, and transparent audits | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Customer support | Live chat support is quick to respond and professional | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price | Low-cost plans pack a lot of value | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
The best VPN for beginners
Test after test, ExpressVPN continues to impress. A huge part of the reason why it's so high on my list is just how easy the service is to use. Its mobile client is especially user-friendly, which is great news for folks who are often on the go and relying on notoriously unsecure public Wi-Fi networks.
In terms of server coverage, ExpressVPN has more than 3,000 secure servers dotted across 105 countries. Hundreds of these servers are based in Canada, too, in Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver, meaning you'll have top-notch speeds when you're browsing from home.
Streaming and unblocking
If you want to hop across digital borders to check out Canadian content while you're away on vacation (or business), you'll be glad to learn that ExpressVPN is a stellar streaming VPN. It always achieves great results in our in-house testing, unblocking in-demand platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+, and many more.
Read more about ExpressVPN ▼
App support
ExpressVPN apps are some of my favorites – and they're compatible with PC, Mac, Android, iOS, and plenty of smart devices, too. The straightforward layout makes them a great option for folks who aren't as familiar with VPNs.
Connecting to a Canada server is as simple as scrolling through the server list, selecting the city you'd like to hop to, and hitting the connect button. There's also a handy auto-connect feature that'll take care of picking a server whenever you boot up your device, ensuring round-the-clock protection.
Privacy and security
If cybersecurity is one of your concerns, then ExpressVPN won't disappoint. Its apps are packed with security features, like industry-standard 256-bit encryption, its very own WireGuard-based protocol, Lightway, and a reliable kill switch. Together, these tools keep sensitive information out of the hands of those who might be searching for it – like hackers, your ISP, and even the government.
The good news doesn't stop there, either. ExpressVPN regularly calls on independent auditors to comb through its logging policy and security claims – in fact, there were 11 audits in 2022 alone. This comprehensive approach is exactly what I like to see (and blows away most of the competition), and goes a long way to reassure users that the service really does value their digital privacy.
Speed
ExpressVPN isn't the quickest VPN in my shortlist – but that doesn't make it a slouch. I recorded speeds of 410 Mbps using its WireGuard-based Lightway protocol. This puts it behind NordVPN in terms of raw speed, but that's still more than enough to ensure smooth HD streams and uninterrupted online gaming. Still, if you're looking for a real speed demon (at a more affordable price), you might want to check out NordVPN or Surfshark.
ExpressVPN is my #1 recommendation for new VPN users who want to get up and running right away. Setup only takes a few clicks and you'll have no trouble navigating the user-friendly apps. Plus, ExpressVPN lives up to its name with speeds that can handle all your HD streaming. ★★★★½
Read more: ExpressVPN review
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Apps are fresh and fun, no matter which device you're using | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ease of use | Features are easy to find and use | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Performance | A speedy provider, but slower than NordVPN | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Unblocking | Unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and more with ease | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Security and privacy | Packed with security features and robust encryption | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Customer support | 24/7 live chat support never disappoints | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price | A pricey pick, but feature-rich | ⭐⭐⭐ |
The best budget VPN
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a battle-hardened veteran of the VPN scene that remains a popular pick – thanks, in no small part, to its awesome security tools. You'll also be able to install and use PIA on virtually any device you own, which is especially handy if you're traveling to and from Canada regularly and rely on your phone, laptop, and tablet to stay connected to family.
PIA's server is absolutely huge, too, with well over 10,00 servers worldwide. Looking for connections within Canada? PIA spoils users for choice with servers in Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal, and even Ontario.
Streaming and unblocking
PIA is another solid option for folks who want to check out what's new on international streaming platforms – or keep up to date with Canadian programming when abroad. The SmartDNS feature lets you bypass geo-restrictions that'd otherwise keep you away from your favorite content, sites, and news sources. PIA's streaming capability improved in my most recent tests, unblocking virtually all in-demand sites, including Netflix and BBC iPlayer.
The VPN delivers on the torrenting front, too, with an array of torrenting-friendly servers and port-forwarding capability that some providers lack entirely.
Read more about PIA ▼
App support
PIA's apps are straightforward and clean with no clutter to spoil the experience. There's plenty of opportunity for users to get stuck into the nitty gritty and tweak PIA's settings and features on a granular level. However, the customizability of PIA's apps can be a double-edged sword – and potentially too complex for new users.
Privacy and security
Where PIA really shines, however, is as one of the best secure VPNs on the market. An exceptional kill switch ensures you don't accidentally leak identifiable information in the event of a dropout, and all PIA plans come with a free email breach scanner. This is the sort of thing you'd usually have to pay extra for, and means you're getting real value for your money.
What's more, PIA's apps are all open source – anyone with the know-how and inclination can look through the code to audit its privacy claims. PIA has also proven its no-logs policy in court on two occasions, and simply had nothing to hand over to the American authorities when presented with a warrant.
Speed
Admittedly, PIA isn't the fastest VPN on my shortlist. I saw a disappointing drop in performance from 510 Mbps to 330 Mbps when using WireGuard – and although this is still more than you need to stream and game online, it might be a red flag if speed is your priority. In that case, it's worth checking out how Surfshark compares.
Private Internet Access has carved out an impressive niche in the VPN industry as a privacy-first provider that has proven its commitment to user security. The service knows how to have fun, too, with awesome unblocking power and P2P-friendly servers right where you need them. ★★★★
Read more: Private Internet Access review
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Tons of depth and plenty to customize | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ease of use | Beginners might be overwhelmed by the complexity | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Performance | Average speeds compared to other premium services | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Unblocking | SmartDNS and a wide server network make unblocking a breeze | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Security and privacy | Packed with security features and a proven no-logs policy | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Customer support | Expert support is on hand at all times | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price | Fair prices, and plans come with handy extras | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
The best cheap VPN
There's no doubt about it – Surfshark is the best cheap VPN around. A low price doesn't mean low quality, however, and Surfshark's user-friendly apps come with all the tools you'll need to unblock content, secure your day-to-day browsing, and protect every gadget in the home.
If you're a hockey fan, you'll be glad to hear that Surfshark has Canadian servers in Montreal, Vancouver, and Toronto – so you'll never miss another match when you're out of the country.
Streaming and unblocking
Surfshark is your digital skeleton key, able to unblock Netflix libraries from all over the world – including Canada. I was able to check out Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime, too, without any issues. It is worth noting that Surfshark struggles to get around China's Great Firewall, so you may want to check out one of our top-rated China VPNs if you foresee this being an issue.
Read more about Surfshark▼
App support
Surfshark is a low-cost provider that holds its own against its premium counterparts – for a fraction of the price. It's compatible with virtually every platform you can imagine, including Windows, PC, Android, iOS, and more.
Where Surfshark shines, however, is in its value for money. Unlimited simultaneous connections let you secure each and every device in house, and even share the love with friends, and built-in malware protection and ad blocking help deter digital nasties.
Privacy and security
Surfshark utilizes 256-bit encryption to keep malicious actors at bay, and its DNS leak protection ensures that you won't leave an identifiable trail across the web. The MultiHop feature is particularly handy if you're looking for an extra layer of security, seeing as it makes it twice as hard for anyone to track your activity.
It's worth noting that I did uncover some issues with the Surfshark kill switch on its Windows VPN app. I wasn't impressed with the warnings I received when my connection dropped, so I'd recommend checking out ExpressVPN or NordVPN if you're a Windows user and the risk of an accidental IP leak is a deal breaker. It's also disappointing to see that Surfshark doesn't support port forwarding – though the provider has claimed that this is due to potential security risks.
Speed
Surfshark is hot on NordVPN's heels in terms of performance, too. The VPN managed to max out my connection in my latest round of tests, achieving speeds of over 950 Mbps. These speeds are doubly impressive when you consider just how cheap Surfshark is compared to its competition.
Surfshark is a stellar premium service with a price tag that works for pretty much every budget – meaning you don't need to spend a fortune to shore up your digital privacy. Plus, it's the quickest VPN on our books, capable of unblocking streaming services from Canada and beyond. ★★★★
Read more: Surfshark review
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Design | A fresh, modern design that's easy on the eyes | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ease of use | Straightforward and intuitive | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Performance | A super-fast service ideal for streaming in HD | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Unblocking | Unblocks in-demand services from around the world | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Security and privacy | Come with ad and malware blocking, but kill switch has issues | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Customer support | Customer support is friendly and fast, though support articles could be improved | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price | Budget-friendly and excellent value | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
The best free VPN
Proton VPN is the same Swiss-based provider behind the encrypted email service ProtonMail. Known for its airtight approach to privacy, the provider packs independently audited and open-source apps, and I couldn't find a single tracker on its website the last time I checked. What's more, Proton VPN even recently built the "world-first" censorship-resistant CAPTCHA system.
As you'd expect from one of my top Canada picks, Proton VPN has over 70 servers spread across Vancouver, Montreal, and Toronto. So, whether you want to circumvent news laws or access Canadian broadcasts when you're overseas, you'll have no trouble finding a nearby server.
Streaming and unblocking
Proton VPN does a great job of unblocking in-demand streaming services, too, and can access Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney+ without a fuss. However, it is worth noting that you'll need a premium plan to make use of the VPN's unblocking capabilities, as well as its P2P function.
That doesn't mean that its free VPN isn't worth trying out, however. It's a great way to get a feel for Proton VPN's suite of features and unique interface, and doesn't impose any data caps or monthly allowances on its users. This is handy if you need a VPN in a pinch – and doubly so when you consider just how untrustworthy most free VPNs are.
Read more about Proton VPN ▼
App support
Getting started with Proton VPN is a breeze, regardless of what device you plan to install it on, and installation only takes a few seconds. You'll see an interactive map if you boot up the Windows apps – though there's a server list, too, for those who don't want to drag-and-drag their way across the earth. It's also worth noting that Proton VPN is one of a handful of services that supports Linux with a full GUI rather than a lone CLI.
Ideally, I'd like to see Proton VPN bump up its device limit to stay competitive with other premium providers. Ten devices isn't stingy by any means, mind, but with Surfshark and Private Internet Access offering unlimited connections for bargain prices, it could be a sticking point for users with a budget (and a lot of gadgets).
Privacy and security
The roster of Proton VPN privacy features is seriously impressive – and that's because the VPN positions itself as a real champion of digital privacy. You'll be able to take your pick of protocols, including WireGuard and OpenVPN, as well as a solid kill switch and MultiHop VPN. Users even have the option of paying for their Proton VPN plan with Bitcoin and cash – which is pretty solid proof that the provider cares about safeguarding your anonymity.
Proton VPN even has three Secure Core servers that reroute your traffic via privacy-friendly locations, Switzerland, Sweden, and Iceland, to add an extra layer of safety to your browsing sessions.
Speed
Proton VPN's WireGuard speeds are lightning-fast, peaking at 950 Mbps, which puts it right up there with today's quickest providers, like Surfshark and NordVPN. So, if you plan to do some 4K streaming or online gaming, Proton VPN won't let you down. OpenVPN speeds are a bit slower, as you'd expect from a more resource-intensive protocol, but it's still a viable option for folks who want to prioritize privacy over speed.
Proton VPN is a staunch defender of digital privacy – and has the audited no-logs policy and security tools to prove it. With servers in Canada, nearby US, and the rest of the globe, unblocking streaming services is a cinch. So, if you're looking for a security-first service, you'll want to give Proton VPN a chance. ★★★★
Read more: Proton VPN review
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Design | A sleek and stylish dark mode is the star | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ease of use | Great mobile apps, but the desktop version can be complex | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Performance | A decent performer that doesn't top our rankings | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Unblocking | Paid plans can unblock a ton of services and sites | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Security and privacy | Lots of security add-ons, an audited policy, and open source apps | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Customer support | Support can be patchy and hard to get hold of | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price | Premium plans aren't exactly cheap, but the free plan is fantastic | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
How to choose a Canada VPN
Picking the right VPN for you starts with working out what you're going to use it for. Are you an avid streamer who wants to check out what's new in international content libraries? Do you live overseas and need access to region-locked Canadian sites? Or are you looking to keep your devices safe from cybercriminals and crooks?
Whether it's one of these things or a combination of them all, there are a few critical criteria to keep in mind when you're shopping around for a VPN that's worthy of your trust (and money):
- Security should be any VPN's top priority. In terms of protocols, look for providers that offer WireGuard, as it's one of the most secure and speedy options available – although OpenVPN is still a decent alternative. A reliable kill switch is a must-have, too. It'll prevent you from accidentally leaking identifiable data if the VPN connection fails.
- You'll also want to opt for a provider with a strict no-logs policy. This ensures that the provider doesn't retain any identifying information about you, so there's simply nothing sensitive to hand over even if the government (or another third party) comes knocking.
- Speed is critical, too, especially if you'll be using your VPN for streaming, gaming, or torrenting. The median speed of the fastest VPNs we tested is 700 Mbps, which is plenty fast. However, services with a top speed of around 560 Mbps are still capable of handling HD streaming.
- The number of servers and server locations is another relevant factor to consider. More servers mean more chances of bagging a fast and reliable connection, as well as a higher amount of locations you can spoof your location to. For a Canada VPN, you want a selection of servers around key cities like Toronto and Vancouver.
- Finally, VPN apps should be straightforward and user-friendly. Check out how many simultaneous connections the provider supports, too, as it's always a bonus to use multiple devices at any one time.
Canada VPN FAQs
What is VPN?
Short for virtual private network, a VPN is a security software that protects and hides your internet activity. You use a VPN via an app on your device, just like you do when you open up WhatsApp or UberEats on your phone. Once you've picked a server location, the VPN encrypts the data leaving your device and routes it through a secure tunnel to the server of your choice.
This lets you appear as if you were accessing online services from that country/place and can unblock censored or restricted content, like TikTok or the US Netflix library, without any hiccups. That's not all – because your data is encrypted, no one, not even the government, can see what you're doing online.
What is the best VPN for Canada?
The competition is tough, but NordVPN tops my list at the moment. In short, it's a superb and speedy service that unblocks virtually any site or app you point it at – and it's incredibly easy to use.
What's more, with servers in over 111 countries (and in three Canadian cities), you'll have no trouble bypassing blocks and censorship, and 24/7 live chat support is always on standby if you need a little help picking out the best server or troubleshooting any obstacles.
Why get a Canada VPN?
VPNs were originally designed with online security in mind—using encrypted tunnels and faceless servers to ensure that your activities could not be traced – and for many Canadians, that will remain the main reason for getting a VPN.
However, it's the flexibility and extra use cases that have contributed to the massive growth in the VPN industry. The fact that you can use them to make your laptop or mobile think they're in Canada, even when they're not, has become a lifeline for travelers and expats to watch Canadian TV while overseas.
Logging on via a server elsewhere also means you can access websites that may otherwise have been blocked in your corner of the country – hence why VPNs for streaming have become so popular these days.
Is a VPN legal in Canada?
It's a fair question, considering there are some countries in which the use of VPNs has been banned. However, in Canada, using a VPN is completely legal, though it's worth remembering that using a VPN doesn't automatically exempt you from any illegal activities you may choose to carry out while connected to one.
Which free VPN has Canadian servers?
While I always recommend opting for a paid-for VPN service to benefit from optimum security and a full run of premium features, there are a number of free VPN services that might meet your criteria – and some even have servers in Canada.
That being said, many free services are limited counterparts of a VPN's premium offering, and you might find yourself limited to a handful of servers and a pittance of monthly data.
How can I use a Canada VPN to unblock geo-restricted content?
Using a VPN to access geo-restricted content is fairly straightforward. Once you've picked out a VPN, download the correct client for your device and run through the simple installation process.
Then, connect to a server in your desired location. For instance, if you're abroad and want to stream TSN or Citytv, you'll need to join a Canadian server. After that, you'll be able to visit the broadcaster's website or app and take your pick of content.
IIf you want access to the US Netflix library, you'll need to connect to a server in the US to trick your device into thinking you're really there. Then, log in to your Netflix account to see exclusive US titles. Be warned, though, this does go against Netflix's Terms of Use, with recent reports claiming Netflix has been blocking residential IP addresses.
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Disclaimer
We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:
1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).
2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.
We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.
