Astrill VPN Review: The Ultimate Tool for Travelers?
Astrill VPN is expensive, obscure and built specifically for one thing: bypassing China's Great Firewall. But does that make it worth three times the price of mainstream VPNs?
Astrill VPN works well in China, but it’s an expensive option, even long-term.
- Table of Contents
- Astrill VPN Overview: Is It the Best Choice for Expats?
- Astrill VPN: Latest News & Updates
- Astrill VPN Background & History
- What Is Astrill VPN?
- What Are the Essential Astrill VPN Features?
- Is the Astrill VPN Price Worth the Cost?
- Apps & Support: Is Astrill VPN Compatibility Good for Travel Devices?
- Astrill VPN's Server Locations
- Hands-on Testing: Is the Interface User-Friendly?
- Speed Performance: How Fast Is Astrill?
- Streaming Performance: Does Astrill VPN Offer Reliable Streaming Support?
- Security: Is Astrill VPN Safe?
- Is Astrill VPN Private?
- How Responsive Are Customer Support & Live Chat?
- Astrill VPN Reviews on Reddit & Social Media
- Bottom Line: Is Astrill VPN Worth It?
- What Are the Best Astrill VPN Alternatives?
- FAQ: Astrill VPN Review
Quick Summary: Astrill VPN Review
Astrill VPN delivers where it matters most for travelers in restrictive regions: reliable access through sophisticated censorship systems. However, its premium pricing, lack of money-back guarantee, and limited streaming make it a tough sell for general users. Try Astrill VPN for yourself to see if it’s right for you.
The truth about Astrill VPN is that it costs $30 a month, has an old interface that looks like it was made in 2010, and you probably haven’t heard of it unless you live in Shanghai. But people who really live in countries with strict rules swear by it like it’s a digital lifeline, as it works much better than most of the top VPNs we typically recommend.
After digging into this service, I can confirm Astrill occupies a very specific niche in the VPN market. It’s not for Netflix bingers or casual privacy seekers. It’s for people who absolutely cannot afford to have their connection blocked.
Astrill VPN Overview: Is It the Best Choice for Expats?
For travelers in restricted areas, Astrill VPN provides reliable access through sophisticated censorship systems. StealthVPN bypasses China’s Great Firewall even during political crackdowns when other VPNs fail. If you’re going somewhere like China or the UAE, Astrill’s obfuscation technology is worth it. For everyone else, the luxury prices are a bit much.
- Physical servers only
- StealthVPN protocol for obfuscation
- Strong encryption with multiple protocols
- Consistently works in China & restrictive regions
- Dated interface
- Extremely expensive
- Limited server network
- No money-back guarantee
How Good Is Astrill VPN?
Astrill VPN is good at one thing, and that’s keeping access to the global internet in countries with strict rules. I checked out Chinese user reviews from the past year to see if Astrill’s claims about reliability were true, and they were. Users say that when there are big political events, other VPNs go down for days. Astrill just needs a protocol switch to get working again.
However, Astrill VPN is expensive and not well-developed for basic VPN tasks. The Windows client looks like Windows 7, and streaming services mostly block its servers.
Astrill VPN: Latest News & Updates
Astrill is still primarily a tool for restrictive areas that hasn’t made its way into mainstream markets yet. It’s worrying that the company doesn’t do independent security audits because of how much it costs. In China, where the Great Firewall changes all the time, Astrill VPN has updated its protocols to stay one step ahead of censorship technology.
Astrill VPN Background & History
Astrill VPN was established in 2009 and is managed by Astrill. The company maintains a low public profile compared to mainstream VPN providers, and there is limited verifiable information about its corporate structure.
Astrill’s official website and company pages state that it is registered in Liechtenstein, a place recognized for its strong privacy protections. Some third-party sources have previously indicated that the company is based in the Seychelles, leading to uncertainty about its exact legal base.
This lack of transparency is common among VPN providers operating in restrictive areas, which means users must trust the company’s claims more than usual.
What Is Astrill VPN?
Astrill VPN is made for countries with a lot of censorship. Most VPNs are made for privacy, streaming, or security, but Astrill is designed to keep traffic moving even when governments block it. Its specialization shows its strengths (proprietary obfuscation protocols, reliable performance in China) and weaknesses (expensive, limited server network, clunky interface).
Who Owns Astrill VPN?
Astrill VPN doesn’t publicly disclose much about its ownership or corporate structure. Unlike providers like NordVPN or ExpressVPN, there’s no clear, verifiable information about parent companies or subsidiaries.
That lack of transparency seems intentional. Astrill targets users in restrictive regions, where keeping a low profile may be part of its operating model.
Where Is Astrill VPN Based?
According to Astrill’s official website and company pages, it is registered in Liechtenstein, a privacy-friendly jurisdiction with strong data protection laws.
However, some third-party sources have previously listed Astrill as being based in the Seychelles, which creates some ambiguity around its exact legal base. Without detailed corporate disclosures, it’s difficult to independently verify which jurisdiction fully applies.
Is Astrill VPN Safe?
Astrill VPN is safe, but it has some problems. It has a kill switch and works with OpenVPN, WireGuard, and AES-256 encryption. This means your traffic is encrypted, and Astrill states that it does not monitor or store the websites you visit.
When you use Astrill VPN, your IP address, connection time, device type, and app version are all temporarily stored (they are deleted when you disconnect). It keeps records of your last 20 connections for support.
The main problem is that Astrill has not been independently audited for security. ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and smaller companies have all agreed to third-party no-logs verification. This lack of audit is very odd for a service that charges high prices and markets itself to people in real danger.
What Are the Essential Astrill VPN Features?
Astrill stands out for its unique obfuscation technology instead of offering a broad range of features. You won’t benefit from the streaming optimizations of NordVPN or the unlimited device support of Surfshark. Instead, you get protocols designed to keep your VPN traffic hidden from deep packet inspection (DPI) systems.
Basic Features
Astrill VPN has plenty of basic features that you’d expect from a premium VPN:
- Kill Switch: When I ended my connection mid-browse, the kill switch activated immediately and showed a clear notification.
- Split Tunneling: Astrill’s “application filter” and “site filter” offer split tunneling. “Application filter” lets you choose which apps use the VPN, while “site filter” routes websites outside the VPN tunnel. Although it’s less intuitive than competitors that present split tunneling as a single feature, this setup is flexible.
- DNS leak protection: Your IP address is hidden, which is essential for any VPN but especially in restrictive regions.
- Port forwarding: This is for torrenting or remote access. Due to security concerns, VPN providers are offering this less, so Astrill’s offering is notable.
Advanced Features
For more advanced users, or those living in or visiting countries with restrictive networks, Astrill VPN also has these options:
- StealthVPN Protocol: Astrill’s hidden advantage. StealthVPN operates as HTTPS traffic, in contrast to OpenVPN, which is detectable and can be blocked. StealthVPN often functions during political events in China when other VPNs struggle. The downside is that because it’s closed-source, you rely on Astrill’s implementation without checking it yourself.
- OpenWeb Protocol: Another browser-only proprietary protocol. Since it doesn’t encrypt traffic outside your browser, it’s faster than StealthVPN but less secure. Astrill recommends OpenWeb for streaming and browsing, but I prefer VPNs for sensitive data.
- Smart Mode/Site Filter: Automatically routes blocked sites through the VPN and sends domestic traffic directly to avoid slowdowns. Though smart in theory, setting it up requires adding URLs or IP addresses, which is difficult for non-technical users.
What Is Astrill’s Router Support?
Astrill’s router compatibility goes beyond standard OpenVPN setups. The custom applet for Asus Merlin firmware transforms your router into an advanced traffic management system. Connect your smart TV and gaming console directly for faster speeds, while using the VPN for your laptop and phone to ensure privacy.
Astrill’s implementation provides more detailed control than ExpressVPN’s router app or NordVPN’s router guides. It’s a matter of complexity. If you prefer using pre-configured routers, Astrill’s method may seem overwhelming.
Is the Astrill VPN Price Worth the Cost?
No, Astrill’s pricing is not worth it for most people. Astrill charges $30 each month on a rolling basis, which is more than double the monthly cost of ExpressVPN — and ExpressVPN offers a money-back guarantee. Astrill’s top pricing at $12.50 per month on a two-year plan is still higher than NordVPN’s two-year rate of $3.39 per month and Surfshark’s $1.99 per month.
Breaking Down Astrill VPN Pricing & Plans
Every plan offers the same features: access to all servers, unlimited bandwidth, and five simultaneous connections. The difference is solely determined by the length of commitment.
- VIP Add-On: For $10 extra per month, you can access “priority” servers, which are said to be faster, especially in Asia. You’ll also enjoy multi-hop connections and 100GB of data on these premium servers.
- Dedicated IP: Available for $5/month, which is actually competitive with other providers offering this feature.
The pricing gets even more frustrating when you realize Astrill VPN has zero money-back guarantee; if it doesn’t work for you, you’re out $30 minimum. You’ll have to take a leap of faith (and finances) that it’ll work for you.
| Plan Duration: | Total Upfront | Per Month |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Month | $30 | $30 |
| 12 Months | $180 | $15 |
| 24 Months | $300 | $12.50 |
How to Get Astrill VPN for Free
It’s not possible, honestly. Astrill VPN sometimes provides a seven-day free trial if you ask customer support, but this isn’t widely advertised and seems to be given on an individual basis. You’re expected to make a commitment.
Apps & Support: Is Astrill VPN Compatibility Good for Travel Devices?
Astrill supports all the key platforms (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android) along with routers, making it ideal for most travelers. The mobile apps fall short on features compared to their desktop counterparts, and the user experience seems outdated compared to current VPN interfaces.
What Devices Work With Astrill VPN?
Astrill VPN works on the following platforms:
- Desktop: Windows, macOS, Linux (with full GUI client)
- Mobile: iOS, Android
- Browser extensions: None
- Smart TVs: No native apps
- Routers: DD-WRT, Tomato, Asus Merlin (with custom applet)
Astrill on Routers: Is the Custom Applet a Game Changer?
Astrill’s custom router applet can transform network-level VPNs. The applet provides a complete interface for compatible routers, allowing me to switch servers, manage protocols, and monitor connections, just like a desktop app, instead of dealing with manual OpenVPN or WireGuard configuration.
This makes router-based VPNs easier to use. I can control the connection from the router dashboard, protect every network device with VPN, and change servers without re-uploading configuration files. That convenience reduces router setup friction, but it only works on certain firmware and router models, so not everyone can benefit.
Astrill VPN’s Server Locations
Astrill operates more than 300 servers across 50+ countries and 140+ cities, which means its network is relatively small in terms of sheer numbers (in comparison, NordVPN has servers in 137 countries). The company owns all its servers and avoids virtual locations, featuring a network specifically optimized for Asia; an aspect many competitors miss.
Astrill continues to run physical servers in India, even after the 2022 law that mandates VPNs to gather and retain user data. This poses a serious privacy risk, so I suggest steering clear of those servers altogether.
Where Are Astrill VPN Servers Located?
Astrill VPN has a fairly good spread of servers, with most located in Asia, Europe, and North America.
| Region: | Server Presence |
|---|---|
| Asia | Strong (11+ countries with several city locations, including Taiwan, Vietnam, and Thailand) |
| Europe | Very strong (30+ countries) |
| North America | Excellent (many U.S. cities plus Canada and Mexico) |
| South America | Limited (Argentina, Brazil) |
| Africa | Minimal (a few countries including South Africa and others) |
| Oceania | Limited (Australia and New Zealand) |
Hands-on Testing: Is the Interface User-Friendly?
The Astrill user interface is functional but feels frozen in time. It gets the job done, but using it is not enjoyable.
My Experience With Astrill VPN
The Windows client is aggressively utilitarian. A small window with a server list, protocol dropdown, and connect button appears upon launch. There’s no onboarding or tooltips, just the assumption that you know what to do. The small window size requires constant scrolling through dense menus to find advanced settings, making interface navigation tedious.
Once you get familiar with the layout, the app runs quickly and reliably. There were no crashes during testing, connection times were quick, and server switching was responsive. Astrill prioritizes functionality over aesthetics. You’ll miss out on the polish of ExpressVPN and the friendliness of Surfshark.
Mobile apps are better because the phone screen allows for cleaner layouts. Text labels replace confusing icons, giving interface elements more room. However, feature parity isn’t perfect; while Smart Mode is available on iOS, split tunneling is not, and protocol options are more limited than on desktop.
How to Install Astrill VPN
- Create an account on Astrill’s website (you’ll need an email and payment method)
- Download the client for your operating system from the account dashboard
- Install and launch the application (standard installation wizard)
- Log in using your credentials
- Choose a server and protocol, then click connect
How to Set Up Astrill VPN
- Select your protocol: For China, use StealthVPN or WireGuard; for general use, OpenVPN or WireGuard
- Configure the kill switch to automatic or always-on for maximum protection
- Set up exceptions/split tunneling if you need to access local services while connected
- Test for leaks using ipleak.net or similar tools to confirm your IP is hidden
The “Before You Go” Travel Setup Checklist
If you’re traveling to a restrictive region, complete these steps before departure.
Checklist
One Week Before:
- Purchase and install Astrill on all devices (VPN provider websites are often blocked at your destination).
- Download the manual configuration files and save server IP addresses as a screenshot.
- Test the connection thoroughly to ensure it works properly.
- Note Astrill’s support email address (you may need it if the main website is blocked).
24 Hours Before:
- Update the app to the latest version.
- Connect and verify your access to blocked services works correctly.
- Save backup server locations marked “China” or “Supercharged” for your destination.
Upon Arrival:
- Try reconnecting to your last-used server first.
- If blocked, switch to a server marked for your location.
- Try different protocols (WireGuard first, then StealthVPN if needed).
- Contact support via email if nothing works (response time is typically under 24 hours).
Speed Performance: How Fast Is Astrill?
Astrill offers reliable speeds that can vary, performing well on nearby servers while experiencing noticeable drops on longer connections. In my tests, the fastest server reduced download speeds to about half of the unprotected baseline, yet it still performed well enough for streaming, gaming, and large downloads.
Local and regional servers delivered the best performance, ensuring low latency and stable download speeds. Even servers far away in the U.S., Hong Kong, and Australia performed decently, but the increased latency and minor speed drops make them more suitable for browsing or streaming rather than competitive gaming.
Astrill VPN Speed Test Results
Astrill provides reliable performance, but it falls short of the leading VPNs that consistently deliver near-baseline speeds in all areas.
| Location: | Latency (ms) | Download (Mbps) | Upload (Mbps) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇬🇧 U.K.* | 12 | 293.1 | 28.2 |
| 🇬🇧 U.K.** | 27 | 155.1 | 24.3 |
| 🇩🇪 Germany | 54 | 137.3 | 24.3 |
| 🇭🇰 Hong Kong | 526 | 132.1 | 21.1 |
| 🇺🇸 United States | 323 | 146.3 | 24.3 |
| 🇦🇺 Australia | 232 | 135.1 | 23.3 |
**Fastest server
Streaming Performance: Does Astrill VPN Offer Reliable Streaming Support?
Astrill’s streaming performance can be quite inconsistent and frustrating. It reliably unblocks US Netflix, but other platforms need some trial and error with servers.
Can Astrill VPN Unblock Netflix or Other Streaming Sites?
| Platform: | Access Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Netflix U.S. | ✅Works | Consistent access across multiple servers |
| Netflix (Other Regions) | ❎Mixed | Canada, UK, Japan, Australia often blocked |
| Hulu | ❎Mixed | Must try multiple servers |
| Disney+ | ❎Mixed | Works sometimes, requires protocol switching |
| HBO Max | ❎Mixed | Hit or miss depending on server |
| BBC iPlayer | ❌Blocked | Consistently failed in testing |
| Amazon Prime Video | ❌Blocked | Generally doesn’t work |
Is Astrill VPN Good for Torrenting?
Kind of. Servers with yellow stars are optimized for torrenting, and Astrill provides port forwarding to enhance speeds. However, the actual performance is disappointing. PrivacyJournal testers have found that downloads that take 20 minutes on other VPNs can take more than an hour on Astrill’s regular servers, and up to two hours without port forwarding enabled.
The VPN offers the necessary security features for P2P, like a kill switch and a no-logs policy, but its slow speeds make it unsuitable for frequent torrent users.
Security: Is Astrill VPN Safe?
Astrill VPN provides solid encryption and protocol options, but the lack of independent audits and the temporary IP logging during sessions are concerns.
Which Protocol Options Should You Use?
WireGuard provides an excellent mix of speed and security for most users. StealthVPN is crucial in China and similar places.
| Protocol: | Best For | Security Level | Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| StealthVPN | China & restrictive countries | High (proprietary obfuscation) | Medium |
| OpenWeb | Browser-only streaming | Medium (browser traffic only) | Fast |
| OpenVPN | General security | High (open-source, industry standard) | Slow |
| WireGuard | Speed & modern security | High (modern, audited) | Fast |
Does Astrill Pass DNS Leak Tests & Security Checks?
Absolutely. I tested Astrill with several leak testing tools, including ipleak.net, browserleaks.com, and dnsleaktest.com; I found no DNS, WebRTC, or IPv6 leaks. When connected to the VPN, your real IP address stays concealed. The kill switch works effectively, stopping all traffic when the connection is lost.
Leak Test Results
During my tests, Astrill VPN had no issues with leaks of any kind. My personal connection data was kept safe within the encrypted tunnel.
Is Astrill VPN Private?
Astrill’s privacy credentials are inconsistent. The Seychelles jurisdiction is impressive, and the no-logs policy looks robust on paper. Without independent verification, you’re relying solely on their word.
Privacy Policy: Does Astrill VPN Keep Logs?
According to Astrill’s privacy policy, the company collects the following information.
During VPN Sessions (Deleted After Disconnection):
- App version
- Device type
- Your IP address
- Connection time & duration
Stored Indefinitely:
- Email address
- Payment information (processed by third parties, not stored on Astrill servers)
- Last 20 connection records (for support purposes, deleted after 30 days of inactivity)
Not Collected:
- DNS queries
- Traffic content
- Websites visited
- Browsing history
- Bandwidth usage tied to your account
This logging policy is more intrusive than genuine no-logs providers like Mullvad, which doesn’t require an email address, but it’s less concerning than some VPNs that retain indefinite connection logs. It’s a good sign that they delete session data when disconnected, but there’s no way to confirm this independently.
Independent Audits
Astrill has not undergone independent security audits. For comparison:
- ExpressVPN has been audited by KPMG and PwC
- NordVPN has been audited by PwC and Deloitte
- Surfshark has been audited by Deloitte
- Proton VPN has been audited by Securitum
Given Astrill’s pricing, it’s unacceptable that there is no third-party verification. The company can assert anything about their no-logs policy, but without independent auditors reviewing their systems, we can’t verify the accuracy of those claims.
How Responsive Are Customer Support & Live Chat?
Astrill offers 24/7 live chat support, though response times can be slow. In my testing, I waited 3-5 minutes for initial responses, followed by longer gaps between replies during technical troubleshooting. However, the quality of the chats was good, and the support staff are knowledgeable; they won’t let the chat end until you’re satisfied with the result.
How to Contact Astrill VPN
- Live Chat: Available 24/7 through the website (expect wait times of 3-10 minutes)
- Email Support: Available through the support ticket system (responses typically within 12-24 hours)
- Knowledgebase: Comprehensive guides covering setup, troubleshooting, and advanced features
The support agents provided reliable and thoughtful responses to my technical questions about protocols, but they were unable to share detailed information about the proprietary StealthVPN protocol implementation, stating it was “classified.” I would expect quicker response times and greater transparency about their technology for a premium service.
Astrill VPN Reviews on Reddit & Social Media
Reddit sentiment on Astrill is polarized. Users in China consistently praise its reliability, while users elsewhere complain about the cost and dated interface. Common themes:
- Positive: “For China, Astrill is number one,” “Used it for 5 years, always works,” “Best speeds I’ve tested.”
- Negative: “Extremely expensive,” “No refunds under any circumstances,” “Customer service is slow,” “Recent downgrades in service quality.”
Bottom Line: Is Astrill VPN Worth It?
Astrill VPN justifies its premium cost if you’re in a country with strict internet censorship or traveling to one. The StealthVPN protocol provides reliable connectivity in China, with users in the UAE, Iran, and similar areas reporting consistent success. In this case, the $12.50-$30 per month cost is worth it for the unmatched reliability.
However, I think Astrill feels overpriced and doesn’t quite deliver for most users. The outdated interface, restricted server network, unreliable streaming performance, and absence of a genuine money-back guarantee make it a less favorable option when compared to NordVPN, ExpressVPN, or Surfshark.
These other providers deliver superior features, a greater number of servers, user-friendly interfaces, and money-back guarantees, all at much lower prices.
What Are the Best Astrill VPN Alternatives?
If Astrill’s price makes you hesitate, or you don’t need specialized obfuscation for restrictive countries, these alternatives offer better value.
NordVPN consistently works in restrictive regions through its obfuscated servers, offers a massive server network across 167 countries, and costs just $3.39 per month on a two-year plan. It includes a 30-day money-back guarantee, making it risk-free to test. Read our NordVPN review.
- Easy to operate
- Unblocks every major streaming service
- Great savings on one- & two-year plans
- Includes a kill switch & ad blocker
- Strict no-logs policy
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Suffered a security breach in the past
- Split tunneling isn’t available on all OSes
- Mobile UI map challenging
Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections, works in China (though less consistently than Astrill), and costs just $1.99 per month. For travelers with multiple devices or families sharing one subscription, Surfshark provides exceptional value with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Read our Surfshark review.
- Very good price-performance ratio
- High security level
- Netflix-compatible
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Great support with live chat
- No information on individual servers
- Can have issues establishing a connection
ExpressVPN provides reliable performance with excellent speeds, unblocks virtually every streaming service, and offers a polished user experience. It also includes a 30-day money-back guarantee for risk-free testing. Read our ExpressVPN review.
- Extremely fast & easy to use
- Servers in 105 countries
- Kill switch, split tunneling & no logs
- Unblocks all major streaming services
- Excellent security record
- Expensive
- Uses some virtual servers
FAQ: Astrill VPN Review
Is Astrill VPN Owned by China?
No. There is no evidence that Astrill VPN is owned by China. The company states that it is registered in Liechtenstein, though it provides limited public information about its ownership or corporate structure.Is Astrill VPN Trustworthy?
Partially. It uses strong encryption and claims a no-logs policy, but has never undergone independent audits.Is Astrill Still the Best VPN for China?
Based on user reports and testing, Astrill maintains the most consistent performance in China.Is Astrill VPN Blocked in China?
The main website is blocked, but the VPN service itself works reliably using StealthVPN protocol.
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