RiftVPN vs Malus: China VPN Price & Free Tier Compared 2026
Data verified 2026-07 · prices may change; check each provider’s site
Malus is known for content marketing (lots of "how to watch [show] overseas" guides) and offers a 30-day refund. RiftVPN's advantage is price: $1.99/mo vs Malus Premium at roughly ¥40/mo (≈$5.6), and $19.99/yr vs ¥480 (≈$67).
| Dimension | RiftVPN | Malus |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly price | $1.99◀ | Premium ¥40/mo (first month ¥19.9 promo) |
| Yearly price | $19.99◀ | ¥480 (~$67) |
| Free tier | ✅ Unlimited-data free tier (use on sign-up) | Unlimited-data free tier (bandwidth limited) |
| Refund policy | 3-day refund (monthly) / 15-day refund (yearly) | Up to 30-day refund◀ |
| Platform support | iOS / Android / Mac / Chrome extension | Windows / Mac / iOS / Android / TV / extension◀ |
| Languages | Simplified / Traditional / English | Simplified / Traditional / EN / JP / KR◀ |
| Price transparency | All prices published | Prices published (many promo pop-ups) |
Verdict
Choose RiftVPN if you value price (about $47 saved per year for long-term use); Malus's 30-day refund and five-language site suit non-Chinese-speaking users. Both free tiers have unlimited data, so sign up for both free versions and test the speed on your most-used apps before deciding.
FAQ
Which is better, the RiftVPN or Malus free version?
Both free tiers have unlimited data. The Malus free tier limits bandwidth; the RiftVPN free tier also provides regional media unlocking. For actual experience, testing each client yourself is recommended.
Malus first month at ¥19.9 or RiftVPN at $1.99 — which is the better deal?
After the Malus first-month promo, it reverts to ¥40/mo; RiftVPN's $1.99 is a standing price, not a promo, and the yearly $19.99 works out to $1.67/mo.
RiftVPN — free to start, unlimited data
Unlock Tencent Video, iQIYI, NetEase Music and more. VIP from $1.99/mo.