Platform-specific recommendations based on actual testing
Native app, kill switch, split tunneling, streaming OK
Perfect macOS integration with Apple Silicon support
Excellent Mac app with advanced security features
Official CLI, WireGuard, auto-reconnect, good docs
Excellent Linux support with open-source client
Privacy-focused with excellent Linux integration
Complete feature breakdown for desktop platforms
| Provider | macOS native (M1/M2) | Kill switch | Linux app/CLI | WireGuard on Linux | Price | Overall score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
E
ExpressVPN
|
|
|
CLI
|
|
$8.32 | 9.3 |
|
N
NordVPN
|
|
|
CLI
|
|
$3.99 | 9.1 |
|
P
Private Internet Access
|
|
|
Native
|
|
$2.03 | 9.0 |
|
M
Mullvad
|
|
|
Native
|
|
$5.50 | 8.9 |
|
S
Surfshark
|
|
|
CLI
|
|
$2.49 | 8.5 |
We prefer VPNs that expose configs, allow custom DNS, and document install steps. For Linux users especially, look for providers that offer OpenVPN config files, WireGuard keys, and detailed setup documentation for different distributions.
OpenVPN & WireGuard config files available
Ability to set custom DNS servers
Clear setup guides for various distros
Step-by-step instructions for Mac & Linux
Download the official macOS app from your VPN provider's website. Ensure it's optimized for Apple Silicon if you have M1/M2 Mac.
Install the app and grant necessary VPN configuration permissions. macOS will prompt you to allow VPN configurations in System Preferences.
Enable kill switch, configure split tunneling if needed, and set your preferred protocol (usually IKEv2 or OpenVPN).
Connect to a server and verify your IP has changed. Test for DNS leaks using online tools.
Download and install the official CLI client. Most providers offer .deb, .rpm, or universal packages.
sudo dpkg -i vpn-client.deb
Login with your VPN credentials using the CLI command. Some providers support token-based authentication.
vpn-client login
Set your preferred protocol (WireGuard recommended for speed) and enable auto-reconnect features.
vpn-client set protocol wireguard
Connect to a server and verify the connection. Check your public IP and run DNS leak tests.
vpn-client connect && curl ifconfig.me
Common questions about desktop VPN usage
No, many VPNs only offer basic OpenVPN config files for Linux without proper CLI tools or native apps. We only recommend VPNs that provide official Linux clients, clear documentation, and ongoing support for major distributions. Avoid VPNs that only offer manual configuration.
Yes, most VPN providers allow simultaneous connections on multiple devices with one account. ExpressVPN allows 5 devices, NordVPN allows 6, and Surfshark offers unlimited connections. You can typically use your Mac, Linux machine, phone, and other devices simultaneously.
Most Mac VPN apps offer a "Launch on startup" option in their settings. You can also add the VPN app to your Login Items in System Preferences > Users & Groups > Login Items. Some apps also support connecting automatically when joining untrusted networks.
WireGuard is generally faster and uses less CPU than OpenVPN, making it ideal for Linux servers and desktop use. It's built into the Linux kernel (5.6+) and has a smaller codebase, making it easier to audit. However, OpenVPN has been around longer and is supported by more VPN providers.
Most major VPN providers now offer native Apple Silicon apps that run natively on M1/M2 Macs without Rosetta translation. This provides better performance and battery life. ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark all have native Apple Silicon support. Avoid older VPNs that still require Rosetta.
Our desktop-specific testing process
We test on Intel and Apple Silicon Macs, checking app performance, kill switch reliability, and system integration.
We test on Ubuntu, Debian, CentOS, and Arch Linux to ensure broad compatibility and proper package management.
We evaluate command-line interfaces, scripting capabilities, and automation features for power users.
We verify kill switches, DNS leak protection, and protocol implementation across both platforms.