Best VPNs for Snapchat: Unblock Snapchat at school or work

A VPN will allow you to access Snapchat whether you’re at school, work, or any location in which the service is blocked. Here’s a roundup of the best VPNs for Snapchat.

Snapchat is a popular instant messaging service with VoIP capabilities. It has over 750 million monthly active users, but many will find it difficult to access the app while at work or school. The service is now blocked by many shared networks. Some countries have gone so far as to ban Snapchat entirely, although it’s easy to bypass any restrictions with a VPN. 

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) works by encrypting all data sent to and from your device, routing it through a server in a location that the user has selected. This will assign you with a temporary IP address that can be used to access lots of geo-restricted sites and services, from Snapchat to platforms like Netflix. Your real IP address will also be hidden in the process. 

We’ll take you through each of the best VPNs for Snapchat in detail below. For now, here’s a quick rundown with key information about each provider.

Best VPNs for Snapchat:

1. NordVPN: The best VPN for Snapchat. Secure RAM-only servers, speedy connections, and reliable access to Snapchat and other geo-restricted services. Large network, streaming support, and offers a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Surfshark: Our top budget VPN for Snapchat. RAM-only servers in 100+ countries, great for an IP address from various locations, and works with a surprising amount of blocked services (Snapchat included). Unlimited connections with a single account. 
3. ExpressVPN: Reliable server speeds in 94+ countries, custom protocol, ideal for accessing streaming services from abroad, and works with all social media platforms. 
4. Proton VPN: Advanced provider that will improve security along with offering access to blocked sites and services. 
5. Mullvad: Privacy-focused VPN offering anonymous sign-up. Works well with social media, but no streaming support. 
6. IVPN: Servers are compatible with Snapchat, no-logs, and an emphasis on privacy and security above all else. 
7. CyberGhost: Capable of accessing various geo-blocked sites and services, including Snapchat, and a long list of popular streaming platforms. 

Summary Table

If you’re in need of a VPN for Snapchat, there’s a long list of services that will be able to get the job done. 

We've been able to narrow the field with our inclusion criteria. Here are some of the non-negotiable characteristics we looked at when picking out the best providers for Snapchat:

• Snapchat support for a selection of devices and platforms, as well as servers in a wide range of locations so there’s always a local option
• Connection speeds will dictate how efficiently the user is able to perform any online task, and will be especially important if you’re aiming to make voice or video calls via Snapchat
• Privacy and security, including everything from notable features to available protocols
• In order to qualify for one of the top three positions, the VPN must operate a 100% diskless server network and have had its infrastructure audited by a reputable third party

For more information about the specific criteria we used for picking the best VPNs for Snapchat, check out the testing methodology section found later in this article.

Best VPNs for Snapchat in 2023

Here’s a roundup with detailed information about each of the VPNs that have made it onto this list.

NordVPN is our top recommendation if you need a VPN for Snapchat, allowing easy access to any apps and services that are blocked on your home or school network. The same is true for users in more restrictive regions such as China or Iran, thanks to strong obfuscation. 

It has over 5,800 servers to pick from in 60+ countries and average speeds amount to 200 Mbps. As such, it works well with streaming services like Prime Video, Peacock, HBO Max, ESPN, NBC, ABC, CBS, and Hulu in the United States. Compatibility with 23+ Netflix catalogs makes it a great option for catching up with content from abroad. Nord is also a great option for social media, or for making VoIP calls. 

The provider has a wide array of premium features to take advantage of, whether it’s the proprietary NordLynx protocol, or SmartPlay, which works automatically to access blocked content. Meshnet lets you create private, encrypted tunnels between devices, even without a NordVPN subscription. 

Encryption is watertight, while the VPN has an audited no-logs policy. Live chat is available 24/7 in the unlikely event that you happen to run into any issues.  

You’ll find NordVPN apps for Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, and iOS. A single subscription allows the user to connect up to six devices. 

THE BEST VPN FOR SNAPCHAT: NordVPN is our top pick for Snapchat, with lots of speedy RAM-only servers to pick from. Streaming support, unique features like SmartPlay and Meshnet, strong security, and comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee. 

Read our full review of NordVPN.

Surfshark is a close second, and it’s our top pick if you’re in need of a low-cost provider for Snapchat. You definitely won’t be left feeling short-changed, with everything from fast speeds (188 Mbps) to unlimited device connections included with a basic subscription. 

As well as accessing other VoIP apps, social media, and more, Surfshark works well with a range of streaming services. For instance, you can access 20+ Netflix catalogs, more than matching up to expensive alternatives in most respects.  

Notable features include servers in 100+ countries, allowing the user to get a nearby IP address no matter where they are in the world. Surfshark supports torrenting, and comes with extras like ad blocking and malware filtering (CleanWeb). NoBorders mode will allow the user to access the VPN in restrictive regions, bypassing online censorship in the process. 

The provider adheres to an audited no-logs policy, keeping no data that can identify what its users are up to. 

A collection of apps for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS are backed by support for Linux and routers. Surfshark also comes with browser extensions for Firefox and Chrome.

THE BEST BUDGET VPN FOR SNAPCHAT: Surfshark won’t let you down despite an affordable price tag. Snapchat access, streaming support, features like NoBorders, unlimited device connections, apps for all devices, decent speeds, and a 30-day money-back guarantee. 

Read our full review of Surfshark.

ExpressVPN is a provider with a wealth of experience, launched in 2009. The service will easily access Snapchat, and the same goes for various blocked sites and services worldwide. 

Over the years, it has built up a reputation as one of the best VPNs for streaming, accessing a wealth of content via popular platforms in any region you can think of. This includes BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and 24+ Netflix libraries. 

ExpressVPN comes with a custom protocol (Lightway), ensuring reliable speeds (175 Mbps) from 105+ countries worldwide. With a large user base, it also happens to be especially beginner-friendly, benefiting from knowledgeable support staff that are available 24/7 via live chat. 

As with the providers mentioned above, it offers a solid no-logs policy. Features include a kill switch, split tunneling, Smart DNS, and obfuscation. You'll be able to hide your physical location with ease, and it comes with DNS leak protection as part of a range of strong security measures. 

Along with apps for all major devices, ExpressVPN comes with custom router firmware which makes it easy to connect to devices such as smart TVs and games consoles. It does work out to be more expensive than the average low-cost VPN, but it’s unlikely to let you down when accessing Snapchat. 

RELIABLE SNAPCHAT VPN: ExpressVPN is a viable solution for almost any blocked online service, Snapchat included. Reliable server speeds, locations in 94+ countries, Lightway protocol, 24/7 live chat support, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of ExpressVPN.

Proton VPN is another solid option for accessing Snapchat, along with many other blocked apps and services. You’ll find over 3,000 servers in 69+ countries – a network that continues to grow with each passing month. 

With a trio of free locations to pick from in Japan, the United States, and the Netherlands, Proton’s free tier is perfect for simple tasks such as accessing Snapchat safely. For example, bandwidth isn’t capped, and you’ll be protected by its no-logs policy.  

However, you’ll have to upgrade to a premium account if you’re hoping to stream at the same time or to gain access to the fastest speeds (320 Mbps). It's an excellent choice if you're aiming to watch region-based content from abroad. 

Secure Core servers route traffic through locations such as Switzerland and Iceland. This improves online privacy, especially when backed by features like obfuscation and port forwarding. 

If anything, the provider might be a bit over-equipped if you only need a VPN for Snapchat. That’s hardly the worst flaw, but it is worth factoring in the higher asking price.

POWERFUL SNAPCHAT VPN: Proton VPN is an accomplished provider with limited free server locations and lots of premium features. Speedy connections, Secure Core, no-logs, streaming support, and a simple 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of Proton VPN.

Mullvad earned a strong reputation thanks to a strict no-logs policy. The fastest speeds (660 Mbps) on the market make it a viable alternative to any of the providers seen above. 

It’s great for intensive tasks like torrenting or gaming, and will access Snapchat without any problems no matter your current location. The same can’t be said for streaming platforms like Netflix, but Mullvad is primarily designed to improve privacy, rather than to be used for entertainment purposes. 

It comes with obfuscation which works in countries like the UAE, China, Iran, and Egypt. Mullvad is great for accessing blocked services like WhatsApp, and it’s seen as one of the most secure VPNs overall. 

It does have fewer servers than the competition, although that hasn’t impacted performance. The provider uses a flat pricing plan, coming in at 5 euros per month, no matter where you are in the world. It’s fair, but you will be missing out on savings seen with services offering longer subscriptions. 

FAST SNAPCHAT VPN: Mullvad will be able to access Snapchat and various blocked apps and services, no matter your current location. Fastest speeds, advanced privacy features, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of Mullvad.

IVPN is a reputable provider based in Gibraltar. Despite a lack of streaming support, it’s one of the best VPNs if you’d like to ensure that your data remains secure while connected to its servers. 

It offers a few advanced features like MultiHop, and WireGuard ensures that the VPN is no slouch when it comes to connection speeds. 

IVPN’s transparent business model is backed by a strict no-logs policy and the provider has a strong commitment to user privacy. This is backed by open source apps for all major devices, as well as port forwarding, Tor access, split tunneling, and more. 

It’s a trustworthy service if you'd like to access blocked sites and services like Snapchat while in a region that restricts access to VPNs. There are no DNS leaks, and it's a budget-friendly option.

It’s more of a specialist service compared to the others, but don’t discount IVPN if you’re not interested in streaming. An IVPN Pro plan allows for up to seven simultaneous connections.

ANONYMOUS SNAPCHAT VPN: IVPN is perfect if you’re looking for anonymity while accessing Snapchat in a restrictive region. Open source apps, port forwarding, and a simple no-logs policy. Offers the industry standard 30-day money-back guarantee.

CyberGhost has a wealth of experience when it comes to accessing blocked services like Snapchat. The provider has one of the largest networks on the market, with a selection of 9,600+ servers in 91+ countries. 

Average speeds of 300 Mbps are impressive, and it’s ideal for beginners in many respects. You can access streaming sites in a long list of countries, with servers for specific platforms clearly labeled within the app. It works out to be affordable if you’re looking at longer subscriptions.

Helpful features include split tunneling and Smart DNS. It blocks malicious websites, tracking scripts, and adverts. As you’d expect, it works well with social media, VoIP services, and anything blocked on a home or school network.

CyberGhost offers apps for Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, and iOS, along with support for routers and browsers. You’ll be able to connect up to seven devices at the same time. 

STREAMING SNAPCHAT SERVERS: CyberGhost is another suitable VPN for accessing blocked apps like Snapchat and Netflix from anywhere in the world. Large network, fast connection speeds, beginner-friendly apps, and an extended 45-day money-back guarantee period.

Read our full review of CyberGhost.

Methodology: How we chose the best VPNs for Snapchat 

Rather than picking out providers at random, we’ve compiled a comprehensive VPN testing methodology. We test and compare the best VPNs in the business. 

Our strict criteria means that only providers dedicated to digital privacy, with excellent usability and optimal performance, can make it onto our list. Below, you can see the criteria we used to pick the best VPNs for Snapchat.

• Server locations: We’ve factored in the number of server locations on offer, ensuring coverage in multiple popular locations. Snapchat support is also necessary in this instance, along with access to additional social media platforms. 
• Speeds and performance: Fast speeds will ensure no lag, even if you’re connecting to servers located halfway around the world for video calls. 
• Privacy and security: How does the VPN perform in terms of security and privacy? We look at features, their implementation, and everything from leak protection to protocols. The VPN needs strong encryption, and it must mask your real IP address. 
• Third-party audits: Trust is the foundation of the value that VPNs provide. You are essentially placing more faith in your VPN provider than you are in your ISP. Almost every provider says they are a ‘no-logs' VPN. The only ways to test this claim are either through the courts or through audits. We will only consider providers for our top three positions if they have undergone infrastructure audits from a reputable third party. While this isn't foolproof, it's the closest the industry has to a verification process for logging policies.
• Diskless infrastructure: Again, this is a prerequisite to be considered for one of the top three positions on BleepingComputer. While the data stored on a VPN server should be minimal, it could, theoretically, be accessed if the servers were seized or hacked. Moving processes to RAM means that no information can be physically taken from servers and it is wiped on shutdown. It can also easily be wiped as a part of regular security procedures.

How to use a VPN with Snapchat  

VPNs might be intimidating for new users given the various technical terms discussed above, but it’s not difficult to get started with a Snapchat VPN. 

If you’re not sure what to do, we’ve put together a quick step-by-step guide to make things easier.   

Here’s how to set up a VPN with Snapchat:

1. Pick a VPN that works with Snapchat. We’ve listed several top options above. 
2. Sign up with the service, and download the relevant VPN app to your device.
3. Open the VPN app, and sign in with your login details. 
4. Select a server in a country in which Snapchat is available. 
5. Wait to be connected. You’ll now be free to access Snapchat. 

You’ll be free to access additional blocked sites and services available in the region that you’ve chosen for as long as you’re connected to the VPN server. 

Snapchat VPN FAQs

Is it legal to use a VPN with Snapchat?

Yes, it’s legal to use a VPN with Snapchat, although there is a possibility that doing so may breach its terms of service. In any case, the user is unlikely to face any repercussions, such as having their Snapchat account locked. However, VPNs are completely blocked or banned in some countries, such as Russia and China. Make sure to take the time to find out about local laws in your current location to ensure you’re following the rules.

Can I connect to Snapchat from anywhere with a VPN?

Yes, you’ll be able to use Snapchat from anywhere in the world with a VPN. For example, if you select a VPN server in the UK, you’ll be able to access Snapchat, no matter your current location. However, some countries don’t allow the user to install Snapchat in the first place, so a VPN may only work if you already have the Snapchat app downloaded onto your device.

Should I use Snapchat with a VPN?

We’d generally advise using a VPN at all times, whether it’s for Snapchat or anything else. It’s a great method to avoid ISP tracking, masking the online sites and services you’re visiting in the process. Of course, we don’t condone using a VPN for anything that involves breaking the law. 

Can I use a VPN to change my Snapchat location?

Yes. You’ll be able to change your Snapchat location with the use of a VPN. To do so, you’ll just need to switch to a relevant VPN server in the desired region. However, Snapchat uses your GPS location instead of your IP address to determine where you’re physically located, so this might not work with SnapMap.

Can I use a free VPN where Snapchat is banned? 

It can be tempting to look to a free provider, especially considering the average Snapchat user is younger with less disposable income. However, free VPNs are inadvisable for a number of reasons. Security tends to be an issue, whether it’s due to VPNs selling user data, or lacking basic encryption protocols. Some free VPNs are teeming with malware, while others struggle with everything from streaming access to connection speeds. 

It’s worth mentioning that many of the worst free VPNs are designed for Android and iOS, hoping to prey on users who are conditioned to expect freemium services on mobile platforms.