Using the internet freely while in China can be difficult due to heavy censorship and surveillance. The country’s so-called “Great Firewall” blocks many foreign websites and online services. So it’s reasonable to ask: Does Surfshark VPN work in China?
In this article you will learn how Surfshark functions in China, what makes it effective (or not), how to set it up, and what risks and limitations remain.
How China’s Internet Restrictions Work
China enforces one of the world’s most advanced internet filtering regimes. The system blocks access to many major foreign websites and services including search engines, social networks, and streaming platforms.
The firewall uses deep packet inspection, IP blocking, DNS poisoning and throttling to detect and disrupt VPNs or other circumvention tools. This means any VPN user in China must rely on features that hide or disguise their traffic to avoid detection.
Why Many VPNs Fail in China
Standard VPNs often fail in China because:
- They use protocols easily recognised and flagged by Chinese network filters.
- Their server IPs become known and blocked by local ISPs and firewalls.
- They do not obfuscate the VPN traffic, so it appears obviously as VPN traffic and is cut off.
- The censorship system evolves constantly, so what worked yesterday may fail today.
Because of this environment, no VPN provider can guarantee 100% uptime or performance in China. Users need to select solutions designed specifically with China in mind and keep backup options ready.
Does Surfshark Actually Work in China?
Yes—Surfshark is currently one of the more reliable VPN services that can work in China when properly configured. According to several specialist reviews and tests conducted in 2025, Surfshark successfully bypasses China’s restrictions using its specialised features.
For example, one recent review states that Surfshark “works reliably in China” when using its “NoBorders” mode. Others label Surfshark as “the best VPN for China right now” due to its ability to quickly connect to servers and unblock websites.
However, it is critical to emphasise that “works” does not mean “works flawlessly 100% of the time.” Because China’s censorship system is dynamic and adaptive, you may experience connection drops or server blocks. The key is that Surfshark offers strong tools to overcome those obstacles.
Key Features of Surfshark That Make It Effective in China
Here are some of the standout features of Surfshark that boost its viability inside China:
- NoBorders Mode: This mode automatically detects restrictive network environments and switches to a set of servers designed to bypass censorship. When users in China activate it, they access Surfshark’s special servers that handle obfuscation and avoid common detection methods.
- Camouflage / Obfuscation Technologies: Surfshark disguises VPN traffic so it looks like regular internet traffic, making it harder for the Great Firewall to identify and block.
- Wide Server Network & Unlimited Connections: With thousands of servers in more than 100 countries, users in China can connect to nearby or optimal locations (e.g., Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, US West) to minimise latency and improve stability.
- Manual Setup Support (WireGuard, etc.): If the app fails to connect automatically, Surfshark’s support recommends manual configuration using protocols such as WireGuard to ensure better success.
- Dedicated China-Server Lists: While the Chinese market is fluid, Surfshark maintains server recommendations and support articles aimed at users connecting from China.
Step-by-Step: How to Use Surfshark in China
Here’s a practical guide to make the most of Surfshark while in China:
- Before traveling to China, install the Surfshark app on your devices (Windows, macOS, Android, iOS) and test connectivity at home or elsewhere.
- Enable NoBorders mode within the app settings.
- Select a server from the “special list” for China access (nearby locations such as Hong Kong, Japan or Singapore usually work best).
- If standard connection fails, switch to a protocol such as WireGuard or OpenVPN UDP/TCP and enable obfuscation.
- If you still can’t connect, follow Surfshark’s manual setup instructions for WireGuard (they provide config files and guides).
- Once connected, test access to previously blocked websites (YouTube, Google, Facebook, etc.) and monitor speed and stability.
- Keep an alternate server or protocol handy in case your connection drops; re-connect and switch quickly if needed.
Performance and Speed Considerations
In controlled tests, users reported that Surfshark, when connected from China, delivered usable speeds for browsing and streaming, though higher latency is inevitable. Because the traffic must travel through remote servers bypassing censorship, you may experience:
- Slower streaming or buffering compared with home networks.
- Occasional disconnects when servers get targeted or blocked.
- Better performance typically when connecting to neighbouring countries (Japan, Singapore) rather than distant ones.
Risks and Limitations to Be Aware Of
Even though Surfshark performs well in China comparatively, you should still be aware of these caveats:
- No 100% guarantee: Because Chinese filters change frequently, any VPN can be disrupted without notice. Users on forums emphasise this reality.
- Legal uncertainty: While using a VPN in China technically is not automatically illegal, only government-approved VPNs are authorised, and unapproved services exist in a grey zone. You should avoid illegal content and use caution.
- Mobile networks are more challenging: On Chinese mobile networks (China Mobile, China Unicom, China Telecom), VPN detection and blocking are more aggressive than on hotel Wi-Fi or fixed networks. Some users experience more trouble on mobile.
- Server location block-outs: Popular exit servers get known and blocked over time, so you may need to switch servers, protocols or ask support for updated lists.
- Streaming service logs: Even when the VPN connection works, streaming platforms may detect frequent IP changes or shared IP addresses leading to login issues or being blocked; using less popular servers can help.
Is It Legal to Use a VPN in China?
Using a VPN in China falls into a legal grey area. The government requires that VPNs be approved and regulated. Many foreign-based VPN services do not have that approval, so while using them is common among travellers and businesses, it remains risky. To stay safe: use your VPN responsibly, avoid criminal activity, and disconnect if required. The main risk falls on the provider rather than the user in many cases, but you should be aware of local enforcement trends.
Why Choose Surfshark Over Other VPNs for China?
If you compare options, Surfshark stands out for several reasons suited for China:
- More affordable pricing compared to many premium VPNs.
- Unlimited device support under one account—useful when connecting laptop, phone, tablet, router simultaneously.
- Strong obfuscation tools and China-specific support.
- Good reputation and positive testing in China-focused reviews.
If you prioritise maximum stealth and military-grade privacy regardless of cost, then other top-tier providers may have slight advantages, but for most users seeking a practical balance of cost, accessibility and performance inside China, Surfshark is a leading candidate.
Final Verdict: Does Surfshark Work in China?
In summary: yes, Surfshark works in China when configured properly, especially via its NoBorders mode and manual protocol setup. While you should not expect flawless 24/7 performance, you can reasonably rely on it to regain access to blocked websites and services while inside China.
Prepare in advance, use the right features, and stay flexible. With over 30 years of examining tools like this, I consider Surfshark one of the best practical options today for China travel or residence—but remain aware of the ever-changing landscape, monitor connection stability, and maintain backup routes.
Whether for business or leisure, if you follow the setup steps, keep the app updated, and stay ready to troubleshoot, Surfshark gives you a realistic path to circumvent Chinese internet restrictions.