The Best VPNs for Canada 2024
We tested several VPNs to find the best streaming options for Canada. Find out why NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN made our list.
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Last updated Jan 17, 2024
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Best for Security
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Ultra-secure, high-speed VPN complete with malware protection and automatic blocking of intrusive ads and third-party trackers
Too many confusing plans
View More
Best Affordable Canada VPN
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View More
Best Premium Canada VPN
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Editorial Rating
Learn More
On ExpressVPN's website
ExpressVPN
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More expensive than NordVPN, Surfshark, and CyberGhost
View More
We've determined that the best Canada VPNs are NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN. NordVPN is a great option for people needing additional security features outside a traditional VPN. Surfshark came out on top as the best affordable VPN for those on a budget but who don't want to sacrifice quality. Finally, ExpressVPN was the best premium VPN for reliability and speedy connections.
Keep reading to dive into why these three VPNs made our top three, based on their ability to access geo-restricted content, maintain fast connection speeds, and successfully mask our location.
In this article
The best Canada VPNsNordVPN: Best for security
Surfshark: Best affordable VPN
ExpressVPN: Best premium VPN
Honorable mentions
Best VPNs for Canada FAQs
Bottom line: The best Canada VPNs
How we tested the best VPNs for Canada
The best Canada VPNs
- NordVPN: Best for security
- Surfshark: Best affordable VPN
- ExpressVPN: Best premium VPN
Top 3 VPN services for Canada compared
| VPN |  NordVPN |
 Surfshark |
 ExpressVPN |
| Starting price | Starts at $3.99/mo | Starts at $2.29/mo | Starts at $6.67/mo (billed annually) |
| Unblocks Netflix Canada | |||
| Unblocks BBC iPlayer | |||
| Unblocks CBC Gem | |||
| Learn more | Get NordVPN Read NordVPN Review |
Get Surfshark Read Surfshark Review |
Get ExpressVPN Read ExpressVPN Review |
NordVPN: Best for security
NordVPN
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Ultra-secure, high-speed VPN complete with malware protection and automatic blocking of intrusive ads and third-party trackers
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Other benefits include a premium password manager, dark web monitoring, and access to IP-restricted content
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3 plans to choose from for custom protection on up to 10 devices
- Too many confusing plans
Who it’s best for
NordVPN is a great option for people wanting to unblock Canadian streaming content while also having additional online security features.
/images/2023/05/19/best-vpns-canada_02.png)
What we liked
NordVPN did well when we tested streaming services. It didn't have any problem letting us watch Netflix Canada with a VPN. We also had no issue connecting to CBC Gem.
At one point, we had to switch to incognito mode on our Chrome browser to access BBC iPlayer. But we were able to connect in the regular browser at other times. This isn't necessarily a dealbreaker, but you may have to move around to get your location masked.
Beyond streaming, NordVPN also has an impressive number of security features. If you're looking to fully protect yourself, NordVPN has plenty of online tools to protect your data. Some security features that can be part of your NordVPN plan include:
- NordVPN Threat Protection: Malware protection and tracker and ad blocker
- NordPass: Password manager and data breach scanner
- NordLocker: 1 TB cloud storage and file encryption
Additionally, you’ll find that NordVPN doesn’t skimp on online privacy features, such as double VPN, a kill switch, and split tunneling. It also comes with one of the most user-friendly interfaces and the largest advertised server network in Canada (480+ servers with 3 Canada server locations).
What we didn’t like
We occasionally experienced minor issues connecting to streaming services, but we were never blocked from access entirely. Occasionally, streaming services prevented access, but a simple switch to a private browser (such as Incognito mode on Chrome) fixed the issue.
NordVPN is also a bit pricey if all you are looking for is a basic VPN and don't necessarily need or want other security features. NordVPN plans start about $1-$2 more expensive than Surfshark's plans, depending on the current promotion.
NordVPN specs
| Price range | $3.99–$15.99/mo |
| Free version | No, but it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee |
| Number of servers | 6,000+ servers in 60+ countries |
| Number of connected devices | 6 |
| VPN protocol | NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec |
| No-logs policy | No logs |
| Unblocks Netflix Canada | Yes |
| Unblocks BBC iPlayer | Yes |
| Unblocks CBC Gem | Yes |
| Learn more | Get NordVPN Read NordVPN Review |
How much does NordVPN cost in Canada?
NordVPN doesn’t list prices in Canadian dollars, but you can expect to pay anywhere from 4.58 CAD to 21.60 CAD a month based on conversion rates and current promotions.
Surfshark: Best affordable VPN
Surfshark
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All-in-one VPN app with 24/7 protection thanks to 3,200+ RAM-only servers in over 100 countries
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Real-time malware defense, webcam protection, alternative ID creation, ad blocking, and more
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One subscription covers unlimited devices for your entire household with access to 24/7 support
- Headquarters in Nine Eyes Alliance
Who it’s best for
People who need an affordable long-term VPN subscription. It's also ideal for people who need to connect multiple devices and for frequent travelers.
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What we liked
Surfshark had limited problems connecting to multiple streaming services without affecting speed or quality. We tested BBC iPlayer and CBC Gem and connected easily with no noticeable lag or slow load times.
This doesn’t surprise us since Surfshark is one of the fastest VPN providers we’ve tested. Its fast speeds make it ideal for online activities, such as streaming as well as torrenting and gaming.
Surfshark is also a great option for people with several devices or who are in a large household, since it has an unlimited device policy. With servers in 100 countries, Surfshark may also be ideal for people who frequently travel and need security internationally. Surfshark provides 120+ Canadian VPN servers and three Canadian server locations.
Sometimes connecting to servers further away from your physical location results in a slow internet connection. But Surfshark’s large server network makes it easier to connect to local or nearby servers without significantly compromising your internet speeds.
What we didn’t like
On our latest round of Netflix testing, Surfshark struggled to unblock Netflix Canada. We tried clearing our cache, trying different servers, and turning off location services directly from our computer with no luck. Netflix is notorious for blocking VPN services, so it could affect any VPN unfortunately.
And even though Surfshark has servers in 100 countries, it doesn't have as many servers in total compared to other VPNs. Specifically looking at Canadian servers, Surfshark has over 120, while NordVPN has over 480. Having a smaller number of servers may mean you will have more difficulty finding and connecting to a local server, and this may have a huge impact on your internet speed.
Surfshark specs
| Price range | $2.29–$21.99/mo |
| Free version | No, but it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee |
| Number of servers | 3,200+ servers in 100 countries |
| Number of connected devices | Unlimited |
| VPN protocol | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
| No-logs policy | No logs |
| Unblocks Netflix Canada | No |
| Unblocks BBC iPlayer | Yes |
| Unblocks CBC Gem | Yes |
| Learn more | Get Surfshark Read Surfshark Review |
How much does Surfshark cost in Canada?
Surfshark’s Canadian prices can range from 2.69 CAD to 29.70 CAD a month depending on the conversion rate and current promotions.
ExpressVPN: Best premium VPN
ExpressVPN
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Hides intrusive display ads when browsing the web, improving page speed and easing data usage on mobile
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Privacy and safety benefits of a VPN with best-in-class encryption and innovative server technology in 105 countries
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Enjoy no activity logs, malicious sites and trackers protection, and more on up to 8 devices
- More expensive than NordVPN, Surfshark, and CyberGhost
Who it’s best for
People looking for speedy connections along with top security and privacy. ExpressVPN is also a great option for people who want varied device compatibility.
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What we liked
ExpressVPN impressed us by easily masking our location and giving us access to Netflix Canada, BBC iPlayer, and CBC Gem. Like Surfshark, there was no hassle connecting, and we didn't notice any significant loading times or slow connections.
As a VPN, it provides strong security options:
- AES 256-bit encryption
- No bandwidth caps or data limits
- No-logs policy
- Threat manager to block ad trackers on websites and apps
- It bypasses ISP throttling
It's a great option for people with different operating systems and browser extensions, since ExpressVPN has extensive device compatibility:
- Windows
- macOS
- Android
- iOS
- Linux
- Routers
- Gaming consoles (Xbox and PlayStation)
- Smart TVs (Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, etc.)
Overall, it's a high-quality, secure VPN with reliable service.
What we didn’t like
ExpressVPN’s most notable downside is its cost. It can be twice as expensive as NordVPN and over times times as expensive as Surfshark. However, if you prefer the flexibility of a month-to-month subscription, then ExpressVPN’s monthly plan comes at a comparable cost to its competitors. It's also worth noting that ExpressVPN lets you connect to only eight devices simultaneously, which seems limited for the price point.
We also wish ExpressVPN was more open about how many VPN servers it offers. It's great that it has server locations in 105 countries, but how many servers are available overall? If VPN server count is important to you, than you should opt for one of the other choices on our list, which are more open about their numbers.
ExpressVPN specs
| Price range | $6.67–$12.95/mo |
| Free version | No, but it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee |
| Number of servers | Servers in 105 countries |
| Number of connected devices | 8 |
| VPN protocol | Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
| No-logs policy | No logs |
| Unblocks Netflix Canada | Yes |
| Unblocks BBC iPlayer | Yes |
| Unblocks CBC Gem | Yes |
| Learn more | Get ExpressVPN Read ExpressVPN Review |
How much does ExpressVPN cost in Canada?
ExpressVPN shows prices only in U.S. dollars, so its starting price of $6.67/mo (billed annually) is about $9.91 CAD based on conversion rate and current promotions.
Honorable mentions
We've presented three of the best VPN services for Canada, but that doesn't mean those are your only options. Here are some alternatives that might check off the boxes for you:
- Private Internet Access: We determined that PIA is the best VPN for affordable privacy thanks to its low starting price and unlimited connections allowance. It also comes with security features like double VPN servers, an ad and tracker blocker, and more.
Get Private Internet Access | Read Our Private Internet Access Review
- CyberGhost: CyberGhost is more affordable than Surfshark, and it even has a 45-day money-back guarantee compared to Surfshark’s 30-day money-back guarantee. With over 10,000 server locations in 100 countries, CyberGhost has an impressive server network for any VPN needs.
- IPVanish: IPVanish often flies under people's radars even though it offers unlimited connections. It also has a clean and user-friendly interface for mobile, so you can maintain your online privacy wherever you go.
Best VPNs for Canada FAQs
+
What’s the best VPN to use for Canada?
A VPN is a legal way to unblock geo-restricted content, and the best VPN to use for Canada is the one that unblocks regional streaming content while not causing lagging speeds or compromising security.
Your budget may also play a factor. Surfshark is the most affordable VPN that passed our Canadian streaming tests. NordVPN has the best security features, and ExpressVPN has the best premium experience.
+
What’s the best free VPN for Canada?
The best free VPN for Canada is the VPN that encrypts your traffic and doesn't compromise your security by tracking your online behavior.
The top three best VPNs for Canada are Surfshark, NordVPN, and ExpressVPN. But none of these options has a free VPN available. You may want to explore our best free VPNs guide to find a VPN suitable for your needs.
+
Which VPN has the most Canadian servers?
NordVPN has the most Canadian servers, with over 480 servers located in the country. In comparison, Surfshark has over 120 Canadian servers.
ExpressVPN didn’t share the number of servers it has available in Canada, but it did state that servers are available in Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver. Knowing the number of servers available is important because the more servers you have, the more likely you are to get a fast connection by swapping to a less crowded VPN server.
+
Is Hulu available in Canada?
No, unfortunately, Hulu is available only in the U.S. However, you can still access Hulu TV shows and movies if you live in Canada by using a VPN — we recommend Surfshark, NordVPN, or ExpressVPN as a way to unblock Hulu content.
Bottom line: The best Canada VPNs
If you’re looking for additional security from your Canada VPN, then NordVPN has your back. Surfshark is a great Canada VPN app for people on a budget, as its pricing is affordable and it still offers a slew of features. ExpressVPN is also a great option for security and reliability, though its cost may be too high for some.
If none of these options suits you, then you can also consider Private Internet Access (PIA). It passed our streaming tests and just barely missed making our top three. (Though we should mention PIA is headquartered in Denver, Colorado, making it a potential no-go for privacy enthusiasts, since the U.S. is part of the Five Eyes alliance.)
3 best VPNs for Canada
| Starting price | Best for | Learn more | |
NordVPN |
$3.99/mo | Best for security | Get NordVPN
Read NordVPN Review |
Surfshark |
Starts at $2.29/mo | Best affordable VPN | Get Surfshark
Read Surfshark Review |
ExpressVPN |
Starts at $6.67/mo (billed annually) | Best premium VPN | Get ExpressVPN
Read ExpressVPN Review |
How we tested the best VPNs for Canada
Our testing to find the best Canadian VPNs began with determining which VPNs had a seamless connection with Canadian streaming services. VPNs were tested on the following streaming platforms: Netflix Canada, BBC iPlayer, and CBC Gem. If it couldn't connect or mask our IP address, the VPN didn't move into the next phase of our review. We've also created a guide on how to get a Canadian IP address based on these top three.
We also took note of any laggy VPN connection speeds, DNS leak protection, and WebRTC leak protection.
In the last phase of testing, we looked at pricing, the number of Canadian servers, the number of connected devices, whether the VPN has a no-logs policy, and what security features are offered. Our top three VPNs stood out in at least one of these areas and claimed their spot as one of the best VPN services.
NordVPN
-
Ultra-secure, high-speed VPN complete with malware protection and automatic blocking of intrusive ads and third-party trackers
-
Other benefits include a premium password manager, dark web monitoring, and access to IP-restricted content
-
3 plans to choose from for custom protection on up to 10 devices
- Too many confusing plans
Author Details
/authors/sara-nguyen-allaboutcookies-author.jpg)
Sara J. Nguyen is a freelance writer specializing in cybersecurity. She aims to help people protect their data while enjoying technology. She has written about online privacy and tech for over 5 years for several organizations. When she's not writing about the latest cybersecurity trends, you can find her on LinkedIn.
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