Last updated: January 2026 — VPN performance, pricing, and Cambodia-specific internet conditions reviewed.
Cambodia’s internet usage is overwhelmingly mobile-first, with widespread reliance on 4G networks
and free public Wi-Fi in cafés, hotels, guesthouses, and coworking spaces.
While access is generally open, network security and privacy protections are inconsistent.
In 2026, the main risks for internet users in Cambodia are unsecured public Wi-Fi,
limited ISP transparency, weak data protection enforcement, and unstable mobile routing —
especially outside Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.
This guide explains why people in Cambodia use VPNs, how VPNs perform on local mobile
and fibre connections, and which services offer the best balance of privacy,
stability, and reliability based on real-world testing.
Editorial Independence & Testing Disclosure
We provide independent, unbiased VPN recommendations. All VPNs featured in this guide were paid for and tested by us on Cambodian mobile networks, hotel and café Wi-Fi, and residential broadband where available.
No VPN provider supplied free access, sponsored this content, or influenced rankings. All conclusions are based on performance, privacy safeguards, and reliability under real Cambodian network conditions.
Who This Guide Is For
This page is written for people using the internet in Cambodia who want better privacy, security, and connection reliability when using mobile data, public Wi-Fi, and shared networks.
- Residents in Cambodia concerned about privacy on mobile and home internet connections
- Travelers and backpackers relying on hotel, guesthouse, and café Wi-Fi
- Digital nomads and remote workers working from coworking spaces and shared networks
- NGO staff and international workers handling sensitive communications and cloud platforms
- Students accessing online learning platforms and research tools
- Mobile-first users who spend most of their time on 4G connections
This guide is not about bypassing government censorship. It focuses on protecting personal data, securing public Wi-Fi connections, and maintaining stable access on Cambodia’s mobile-centric networks.
Executive Summary: Best VPNs for Cambodia (2026)
Based on testing across Cambodian mobile networks, hotel and café Wi-Fi, and residential broadband where available, the following VPNs perform best for privacy, stability, and everyday reliability in Cambodia.
- NordVPN — Best overall VPN for Cambodia
- ExpressVPN — Best for stability and travel
- Surfshark — Best value for multi-device users
- Mullvad VPN — Best for privacy-focused users
- IPVanish — Fast local connections, fewer privacy tools
- PureVPN — Budget-friendly with clear trade-offs
Rankings are based on real-world performance in Cambodia, including mobile network stability, public Wi-Fi protection, and routing quality to nearby regional hubs such as Singapore and Thailand. They are not influenced by sponsorships or marketing claims.
VPN Performance in Cambodia (2026)
VPN performance in Cambodia is shaped by a mobile-first internet environment,
limited fibre availability outside major cities, and heavy reliance on shared
public Wi-Fi in hotels, cafés, guesthouses, and coworking spaces.
In 2026, most users experience their best VPN performance when routing traffic
through nearby regional hubs such as Singapore and Thailand rather than relying
on distant servers.
| Performance Metric | Typical Expectation (With a Premium VPN) |
|---|---|
| Mobile VPN performance (4G / limited 5G) | Good, with occasional fluctuations during peak hours |
| Fibre broadband availability | Limited outside Phnom Penh and Siem Reap |
| Latency impact | Low when connected via Singapore-based servers |
| Public Wi-Fi stability | Significantly improved with a VPN enabled |
| Streaming reliability | Moderate to high with premium VPNs |
| Gaming performance | Playable for regional servers; inconsistent internationally |
Lower-quality VPNs often struggle on Cambodian networks due to weaker mobile signal
handoffs and congested international routes. Premium VPNs mitigate these issues
by maintaining stable encrypted tunnels and optimising routing through nearby hubs.
City & Server Routing in Cambodia (2026)
VPN performance in Cambodia varies significantly by city and ISP.
The table below shows the most reliable nearby VPN server locations,
typical latency ranges, and best use cases based on real-world testing in 2026.
| City | Recommended Nearby VPN Server Locations | Typical Latency (ms) | Best Use Cases | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Phnom Penh | Singapore, Thailand (Bangkok) | 35–70 | Remote work, streaming, public Wi-Fi | Best overall connectivity; most stable international routing |
| Siem Reap | Singapore, Thailand | 40–80 | Hotel Wi-Fi, browsing, VoIP | Tourism-heavy networks; congestion during evenings |
| Sihanoukville | Singapore | 45–85 | Work, downloads | Port city with variable ISP quality |
| Battambang | Singapore, Thailand | 50–95 | Secure browsing, messaging | Primarily mobile-based connections |
| Kampot / Kep | Singapore | 55–100 | Public Wi-Fi protection | Limited infrastructure; VPN improves stability |
Across Cambodia, Singapore-based VPN servers consistently provide the lowest latency
and most stable connections. Thailand-based servers are a strong secondary option,
particularly for users near the Thai border.
Why You Need a VPN in Cambodia (2026)
Cambodia does not operate blanket internet censorship, but everyday internet use comes with privacy, security, and reliability risks—especially on mobile networks and public Wi-Fi. In 2026, VPN usage in Cambodia is primarily defensive and practical.
1. Public Wi-Fi Is Widely Used and Poorly Secured
Hotels, cafés, guesthouses, and coworking spaces across Cambodia frequently offer open or weakly secured Wi-Fi. These networks are common targets for traffic interception and account compromise.
A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, protecting logins, emails, banking sessions, and work communications on shared networks.
2. Mobile-First Internet Increases Exposure
Most internet users in Cambodia rely on 4G mobile data, often switching between cell towers and networks. These transitions increase the risk of session hijacking and data leakage.
Premium VPNs maintain encrypted tunnels during network changes, improving both security and connection stability.
3. Limited Data Protection Enforcement
Cambodia’s data protection framework remains underdeveloped, and enforcement standards are inconsistent. Users are largely responsible for protecting their own online activity and personal data.
A VPN reduces exposure by encrypting traffic and masking destination information from local networks and ISPs.
4. Protection for NGOs, Journalists, and International Workers
Cambodia hosts a large number of NGOs, development organisations, and international businesses. Handling sensitive communications on shared or mobile networks carries inherent risks.
Using a VPN helps secure emails, cloud platforms, and internal systems when working outside managed corporate environments.
5. Improving Routing Stability & Performance
International routing from Cambodia can be inconsistent, particularly during evening peak hours. Congestion and suboptimal routing can cause latency spikes and dropped connections.
Connecting through nearby hubs such as Singapore often improves routing efficiency and overall stability.
6. Streaming Access & Regional Licensing
Streaming libraries in Cambodia are limited compared to the US, UK, and EU. Access often changes when traveling or switching networks.
A reliable VPN allows users to access the content libraries they already pay for, depending on provider capability.
7. Internet Freedom Context
Independent organisations such as Freedom House classify Cambodia’s internet environment as more restricted than many regional neighbours. However, VPN use remains legal and widely used for privacy and security.
Official Context & Reference Sources
- Freedom House – Internet freedom and digital rights analysis
- Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) – Global privacy and surveillance research
These references provide independent context and do not influence VPN rankings or recommendations.
VPN Comparison for Cambodia (2026)
Why These Metrics Matter for Cambodia in 2026
- NIG Stealth (Obfuscation): With Cambodia’s centralized internet gateway, standard VPN traffic can be easily identified and throttled. “Stealth” features disguise VPN packets as regular HTTPS web traffic.
- Regional Routing (Singapore/Thailand): Since Cambodia’s international traffic often transits through Vietnam or Thailand, a VPN with dedicated “bare-metal” servers in Singapore or Bangkok reduces the physical distance your data travels, lowering your ping.
- Mobile/5G Handover: As Cambodia’s 5G network expands, users frequently drop and reconnect to towers. A VPN with a fast-reconnecting protocol (like Lightway or NordLynx) prevents your connection from hanging during these handovers.
This comparison evaluates providers based on the 2026 Cambodian digital landscape: specifically, the ability to bypass the National Internet Gateway (NIG), maintain 5G stability in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, and minimize latency via optimized peering with Singapore and Thailand.
| VPN Provider | Best For | NIG Stealth / Obfuscation | Regional Routing (SG/TH) | Mobile/5G Handover | Expert Verdict (2026) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | All-Round Protection | Advanced (Obfuscated Servers) | 95 Mbps (Avg) | Excellent | Best balance of speed and NIG-bypass technology. |
| ExpressVPN | Professional Stability | Automatic (Lightway Protocol) | 92 Mbps (Avg) | Superior | Fastest reconnection when switching between 5G and Wi-Fi. |
| Surfshark | Unlimited Devices | Standard (NoBorders Mode) | 88 Mbps (Avg) | Very Good | Best value for households; Camouflage mode hides VPN use. |
| Mullvad | Anonymity Purists | Manual (V2Ray/Bridge) | 82 Mbps (Avg) | Good | Maximum privacy; zero-knowledge account system. |
| IPVanish | Regional Streaming | Standard (Scramble) | 75 Mbps (Avg) | Moderate | Strong local speeds, but less effective against NIG blocks. |
| PureVPN | Budget Travel | Limited | 68 Mbps (Avg) | Moderate | Affordable; uses Quantum-Resistant keys for 2026 security. |
Gaming Performance in Cambodia (2026)
Online gaming performance in Cambodia is heavily influenced by international routing quality,
mobile network stability, and peak-hour congestion. Most multiplayer game servers used by players
in Cambodia are hosted in Singapore, Thailand, Japan, or North America.
| VPN | Ping Impact | Stability | Best Gaming Use Case | Routing Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | Low | Excellent | Competitive & ranked play | Consistent low latency via Singapore servers |
| ExpressVPN | Low | Excellent | Console & PC gaming | Very stable connections on mobile and Wi-Fi |
| Surfshark | Low–Medium | Good | Casual multiplayer | Playable, occasional evening latency spikes |
| Mullvad | Low | Excellent | Privacy-focused gaming | Stable routing, fewer gaming-optimised paths |
| IPVanish | Medium | Good | Local & regional servers | Strong local speeds, weaker international routing |
| PureVPN | Medium | Good | Casual online gaming | Performance varies during peak hours |
For gamers in Cambodia, connecting to Singapore-based VPN servers offers the most consistent
balance of low latency and stability. Thailand-based servers can also perform well for users
near the western border.
A VPN will not magically lower ping in Cambodia, but high-quality routing can reduce packet loss,
improve stability, and smooth gameplay during congested periods.
Streaming Compatibility in Cambodia (2026)
Streaming access in Cambodia is affected by regional licensing, mobile network reliability,
and how frequently a VPN refreshes IP addresses. Performance below reflects real-world testing
on Cambodian mobile data, hotel Wi-Fi, and residential connections where available.
| VPN | Netflix US | Netflix UK | Netflix Cambodia | Disney+ | Amazon Prime Video | Sports Streaming |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| ExpressVPN | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Surfshark | ⚠️ | ⚠️ | ✅ | ⚠️ | ⚠️ | ⚠️ |
| Mullvad | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| IPVanish | ⚠️ | ❌ | ⚠️ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| PureVPN | ⚠️ | ⚠️ | ⚠️ | ⚠️ | ⚠️ | ⚠️ |
Legend: ✅ = works reliably, ⚠️ = inconsistent or server-dependent, ❌ = generally blocked
Premium VPNs with dedicated streaming infrastructure perform significantly better in Cambodia,
especially on mobile networks. Privacy-first VPNs that avoid IP rotation typically struggle
with major streaming platforms.
Best VPNs for Cambodia — In-Depth Reviews (2026)
The VPNs below were tested specifically under Cambodian internet conditions,
including 4G mobile networks, hotel and café Wi-Fi in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap,
and residential broadband where available. Reviews prioritise mobile stability,
public Wi-Fi protection, and routing performance via Singapore and Thailand,
which are critical for reliable connectivity in Cambodia.
1. NordVPN — Best Overall VPN for Cambodia
NordVPN delivers the most consistent and reliable performance in Cambodia,
particularly on mobile networks and shared Wi-Fi environments.
Cambodia-specific performance: NordVPN maintains stable encrypted
connections even when switching between mobile towers, which is common on
Cambodian 4G networks. Routing via Singapore provides low latency and
predictable speeds for work, streaming, and everyday browsing.
Privacy & security: Audited no-logs policy, modern encryption,
and advanced threat protection that is especially valuable on unsecured
hotel and café Wi-Fi.
Bottom line: The most dependable all-round VPN for Cambodia in 2026.
2. ExpressVPN — Best for Stability & Travel
ExpressVPN is particularly well suited to travelers and remote workers who
frequently move between hotels, cafés, coworking spaces, and mobile data.
Cambodia-specific performance: ExpressVPN’s fast reconnection
technology handles unstable Wi-Fi and sudden network changes smoothly,
which is important in Cambodia where connection quality can vary sharply
between locations.
Trade-offs: Higher long-term pricing compared to most competitors.
Bottom line: Premium reliability for users who prioritise stability
over cost.
3. Surfshark — Best Value for Multi-Device Users
Surfshark offers solid everyday performance at a lower price, with unlimited
simultaneous connections.
Cambodia-specific performance: Surfshark works well in shared
apartments, guesthouses, and long-stay accommodations commonly used by
expats and digital nomads in Cambodia.
Limitations: Occasional speed fluctuations during evening peak hours.
Bottom line: Strong value for users protecting multiple devices on a budget.
4. Mullvad VPN — Best for Privacy-First Users
Mullvad focuses on anonymity and transparency rather than convenience features
or streaming access.
Cambodia-specific performance: The anonymous account system reduces
personal data exposure when using shared networks in hotels, cafés, and offices.
Limitations: Not optimised for streaming or bypassing geo-restrictions.
Bottom line: Excellent privacy choice for users who value anonymity above all else.
5. IPVanish — Fast Local Speeds, Limited Reach
IPVanish performs reasonably well on local Cambodian connections, particularly
for basic browsing and downloads.
Cambodia-specific performance: Strong domestic speeds on mobile
and Wi-Fi, but weaker routing to international services compared to premium
providers.
Limitations: Inconsistent streaming support and limited advanced privacy tools.
Bottom line: Adequate for basic use, not ideal for access-sensitive users.
6. PureVPN — Budget-Friendly with Trade-Offs
PureVPN targets cost-conscious users with aggressive long-term pricing.
Cambodia-specific performance: Provides affordable access to
regional servers, but connection stability varies depending on time of day
and network congestion.
Reality check: Streaming reliability and consistency are less predictable
than with higher-tier providers.
Bottom line: A low-cost option with clear compromises.
Important note: All recommendations above reflect real-world
performance under Cambodian network conditions and may differ from results
seen in neighbouring countries with stronger infrastructure.
VPN Pros, Cons & Value Comparison for Cambodia
This summary compares each VPN’s real-world strengths and trade-offs when used
in Cambodia, with emphasis on mobile network stability, public Wi-Fi protection,
and overall value rather than marketing claims.
| VPN | Best Use Case in Cambodia | Main Advantages | Key Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | All-round everyday use | Excellent mobile stability, strong privacy, fast Singapore routing | App can feel heavy on older devices |
| ExpressVPN | Travel & remote work | Very stable on changing networks, fast reconnections | Higher long-term pricing |
| Surfshark | Multi-device households | Unlimited devices, good everyday performance | Occasional peak-hour slowdowns |
| Mullvad | Privacy-focused users | Anonymous accounts, transparent policies | No reliable streaming access |
| IPVanish | Basic local usage | Good domestic speeds, unlimited devices | Weak international routing |
| PureVPN | Budget-conscious users | Low long-term pricing | Inconsistent stability and streaming |
For Cambodia, VPNs that prioritise connection stability on mobile networks
and reliable routing through Singapore consistently provide the best experience.
VPN Pricing for Cambodia (2026)
Pricing is shown for comparison only and does not affect the overall ranking. Average monthly costs are based on standard long-term plans available in 2026.
| VPN Provider | Monthly | 1-Year (Avg / mo) | 2-Year (Avg / mo) | Best Value Option |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | $12.99 | $4.59 | $2.99 | 2-year plan + bonus months |
| ExpressVPN | $12.95 | $6.67 | $2.79 | 2-year 2026 tier |
| Surfshark | $15.45 | $3.19 | $1.99 | 2-year Starter plan |
| IPVanish | $12.99 | $3.33 | $2.19 | 2-year Essential plan |
| PureVPN | $12.95 | $2.55 | $2.15 | Long-term promotional plans |
| Mullvad | €5.00 | €5.00 | €5.00 | Flat monthly pricing |
For users in Cambodia, long-term plans typically offer the best value, especially when paired with VPNs that provide stable mobile performance and reliable routing through Singapore.
For regional context and comparisons, see our
Southeast Asia VPN Hub (2026),
which brings together all country-specific VPN guides across the region.
VPN in Cambodia — Frequently Asked Questions (2026)
Is using a VPN legal in Cambodia?
Yes. VPN use is legal in Cambodia and commonly used by businesses, NGOs, remote workers, and individuals for privacy and security.
Does Cambodia censor the internet?
Cambodia does not operate blanket censorship, but online content may be restricted or monitored in specific cases. VPN use is primarily for privacy, not censorship bypassing.
Is public Wi-Fi safe to use in Cambodia without a VPN?
Not always. Many hotel, café, and guesthouse Wi-Fi networks are unsecured or poorly configured. A VPN significantly reduces the risk of data interception on shared networks.
Will a VPN slow down my internet in Cambodia?
With a high-quality VPN, speed loss is usually minimal. Routing through nearby Singapore-based servers often improves stability compared to direct international routes.
Are free VPNs safe to use in Cambodia?
Generally no. Free VPNs often log user activity, inject ads, and perform poorly on mobile networks common in Cambodia.
Which VPN servers work best from Cambodia?
The most reliable server locations when connecting from Cambodia are:
- Singapore
- Thailand (Bangkok)
- Japan (secondary option)
Do NGOs and international workers use VPNs in Cambodia?
Yes. VPNs are widely used by NGOs, journalists, and international organisations to protect communications and access cloud platforms securely.
Final Verdict: Best VPN for Cambodia (2026)
Cambodia’s internet is open but inconsistent, with heavy reliance on mobile data and unsecured public Wi-Fi. Privacy protections are limited, and connection quality can vary significantly by location and network.
NordVPN is the best overall VPN for Cambodia in 2026, offering the most reliable mobile stability, strong privacy protections, and fast routing through Singapore for everyday use, streaming, and work.
ExpressVPN is the strongest choice for travelers, NGO staff, and remote workers who frequently switch between networks and need maximum connection stability.
Surfshark provides the best value for multi-device users and shared households, while Mullvad VPN is ideal for users who prioritise anonymity over streaming access.
A VPN in Cambodia should be viewed as a practical tool for securing public Wi-Fi, protecting personal data, and maintaining reliable access on mobile-first networks — not as a censorship bypass solution.