Popcorn Time is a free streaming service based on P2P, meaning your privacy can be at risk when using it. Tracing who is watching a film or TV show is relatively easy on this platform. Moreover, some users might be dealing with Internet Service Provider (ISP) speed throttling, making videos unbearably laggy.
Hence you’ll need a reliabe Virtual Private Network (VPN) for Popcorn Time to keep you completely anonymous.
A simple VPN trick – changing your IP address – does wonders for your online identity while streaming on Popcorn time. That, coupled with encryption, makes you invisible to everyone, from potential hackers to your internet provider. We discuss the top Popcorn Time VPNs below, and you’ll find one that suits your needs the best among them.
Best 5 VPN for Popcorn Time: shortlist
- The best VPN for Popcorn Time9.8
- Popcorn Time VPN with RAM-only servers9.7
- Super affordable VPN for Popcorn Time9.4
- Popcorn Time VPN with malware protection9.3
- VPN for Popcorn Time with a free version9.1
How to install a VPN with Popcorn Time
- Subscribe to a top-grade Popcorn Time VPN. We recommend NordVPN, now 57% off!
- Download the client and install it on the device of your choice
- Connect to a VPN server closest to you
- Launch Popcorn Time and stream anything you want!
Why do you need a VPN for Popcorn Time?
It’s only natural to ask, “Do you need a VPN for Popcorn Time?” The answer is yes, mainly to protect your privacy because the platform is not safe to use on its own. As we mentioned previously, this service works on the P2P principle, meaning that users connect to each other using their IP addresses.
Using Popcorn Time without a VPN exposes you to all the other users, the ISP, and copyright holders. It is especially risky if torrenting is illegal in your country or if you’re sharing copyrighted material. Getting caught with such content can net you a hefty fine or, in extreme cases, a spot in a cold & musty jail cell.
Let’s not forget that even if P2P is perfectly fine in your region, your ISP might dislike you for using up too much bandwidth. In that case, it’s not unusual to find yourself as a target of internet throttling. You finally have an explanation for all that mysterious lagging.
Furthermore, some users report that using Popcorn Time without a VPN has led to their data getting compromised and their emails spammed with ads as well. You need to use the best VPN for Popcorn Time to prevent this. A reliable service will hide your IP address and encrypt your traffic, meaning neither your government nor your ISP can see what you are doing.
Top VPNs for Popcorn Time: overview
- NordVPN – The best VPN for Popcorn Time
- Surfshark – Popcorn Time VPN with RAM-only servers
- PrivateVPN – Super affordable VPN for Popcorn Time
- IPVanish – Popcorn Time VPN with malware protection
- Atlas VPN – VPN for Popcorn Time with a free version
- PureVPN – Popcorn Time VPN with a vast network
We strongly suggest subscribing only to the best streaming VPNs that meet specific requirements. The provider must enforce a no-logs policy to guarantee that virtually no one is privy to your data. Then it should also make sure to keep you safe under wraps with all the right tools, such as high-grade encryption, IP and DNS leak protection, and a reliable kill switch.
4K quality and zero buffering are feasible only if the VPN includes the necessary tunneling protocols, like WireGuard and ones similar to it in terms of quality. Also, having an expansive server network is crucial for the best possible performance since you need a server closest to you for that. And we can’t forget about broad device compatibility as Popcorn Time is available on several platforms.
1. NordVPN – the best VPN for Popcorn Time
24/7 live chat, Email
1,247 Mbit/s
- NordLynx protocol for best speeds
- Unbeatable in terms of security & privacy
- Independently-audited and secure
- No router app
NordVPN is the best VPN for Popcorn Time users who want the utmost anonymity. Located in privacy-friendly Panama, this top-of-the-line service has an independently-audited zero-logs policy and even two kill switches. Moreover, it includes various other features that keep you safe night and day.
You can connect to many places with 5400+ servers in 60+ countries, and plenty of optimized P2P servers are available for some Popcorn Time action. The movies will be crisp 4K quality, and you can thank the NordLynx protocol for it. Moreover, surveillance-weary folks can rest easy as all standard hardware is RAM-only.
The pros of NordVPN don’t end with just security and speed. It’s one of the best services for unblocking Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and other geo-restricted content. The nifty split tunneling tool routes VPN traffic through select apps, securing only them.
These features plus 6 simultaneous connections can be yours for only $3.49/month. If you apply our NordVPN coupon, that is. However, there is no need to rush when a 7-day free trial is readily available via the Google Play Store. And because there is a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can subscribe risk-free.
For a deeper investigation of NordVPN, read our NordVPN review.
2. Surfshark – Popcorn Time VPN with RAM-only servers
24/7 live chat, FAQ
927 Mbit/s
- Infinite connections
- Smart DNS for geo-blocked content
- WireGuard-boosted speeds
- Unaudited no-logs policy
Another great Popcorn Time VPN service is Surfshark VPN, based in the Netherlands, a country with no data retention laws. Here, you’ll find everything you need to remain hidden – military-grade encryption, the good ol’ kill switch, IP and DNS leak protection, and more. All of it is boosted by the strict no-logs policy, keeping you virtually anonymous from everyone.
Freely choose from 3200+ servers in 100+ countries and enjoy a pleasant Popcorn Time experience. Smooth video playback and zero lag are made possible due to two things. We’re talking about the next-gen WireGuard tunneling protocol and the one-of-a-kind Nexus upgrade. Oh, and have we mentioned that all hardware is RAM-only?
Surshark is also known for its great unblocking capabilities, so you can stream Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, and other popular platforms. Plus, the family will never have to fight over the remote since there is no device limit – just secure everything you own and enjoy different shows separately. The Bypasser tool will route your VPN traffic only through the apps you want.
After applying our Surfshark VPN code, all you have to pay is $2.30/month. It’s certainly not much for a superb Popcorn Time VPN that you can test out with a 7-day free trial before committing. If you subscribe and things don’t work out, back out later with the 30-day money-back guarantee.
For a deeper investigation of Surfshark VPN, read our Surfshark VPN review.
3. PrivateVPN – super affordable VPN for Popcorn Time
24/7 live chat
135 Mbit/s
- Excellent at bypassing geo-blocks
- Great price-to-feature ratio
- Superb video quality
- Mac and iOS apps have fewer features
Another suitable VPN for Popcorn Time is PrivateVPN, hailing from the not so privacy-friendly Sweden. The sub-par location is instantly remedied by the fact that this service doesn’t collect any data about its users. Moreover, it has all the necessary tools to remain safe & anonymous, including Stealth VPN and Application Guard.
The tight network consists of 200+ servers in 63+ countries, and PrivateVPN owns all of them. It allowed the provider to fully optimize the hardware, ensuring 4K-ready speeds and excellent connectivity. Buying internet capacity straight from the source makes lag-free Popcorn Time streams possible as well.
When the star of the article doesn’t have what you need in its vast library, switch to watching Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu without a hitch. Your whole household will be content with the generous 10 devices per account limit, allowing everyone to enjoy whatever they want, however they want to.
Just $2.00/month is pocket change, and you pay no more than that by applying a PrivateVPN coupon. It is one of a few services for Popcorn Time that come with a risk-free 7-day free trial. The 30-day money-back guarantee also has your back if the subscription is not for you.
For a deeper investigation of PrivateVPN, read our PrivateVPN review.
4. IPVanish – Popcorn Time VPN with malware protection
24/7 live chat, email, knowledge base
- No device limit
- WireGuard protocol
- Independently-audited
- No anonymous payment methods
You can feel safe while watching Popcorn Time with IPVanish. This VPN provides excellent security, boosted by the VIPRE antivirus and OpenVPN Scramble features. What’s more, its zero-logs policy has been audited by an independent third party, making its less than stellar jurisdiction not a problem.
This Popcorn Time VPN boasts 2000+ servers in 50+ countries, and P2P traffic is supported on all servers. Wicked-fast speeds are guaranteed anywhere with the WireGuard tunneling protocol as well. And we can’t forget that all hardware is bare-metal and owned by the provider, so great performance and tight security are a true and tested reality.
IPVanish may not be your top choice for unblocking other geo-restricted websites. But if Netflix US is all you need besides Popcorn Time, then it’s just right. The provider compensates for weaker geo-block bypassing by offering unlimited simultaneous connections instead.
Subscribe for no more than $3.99/month with our IPVanish discount code. Sadly, there is no trial version to take out for a spin. Thankfully, the 30-day money-back guarantee should be enough to see if you want to commit and use it for watching Popcorn Time.
For a deeper investigation of IPVanish, read our IPVanish review.
5. Atlas VPN – VPN for Popcorn Time with a free version
Email, tickets, FAQ
- Best free version
- No device limit
- Excellent against geo-blocks
- No router configuration
People running on a tight budget are welcome to dive into Popcorn Time with the cheapest VPNs on the market. Atlas VPN includes excellent privacy and security-ensuring features for free and premium tiers alike. Can’t forget that it doesn’t collect any information, too, which is helpful if you find yourself in a country where the law doesn’t favor P2P.
The sizable network of 750+ servers across 37+ countries is guaranteed to have the perfect server for your Popcorn Time needs. Everything here is powered by the WireGuard tunneling protocol, which means zero-buffering and fantastic quality, right? Absolutely yes.
It is a convenient service if you mostly watch shows on the go, and the Android app even includes split tunneling. Accessing foreign Netflix libraries and location-restricted services like Disney+ and HBO Max is quick and easy as well. Of course, no device limit per account is the cherry on top.
Apply an Atlas VPN coupon to pay only $2.05/month for this excellent VPN for Popcorn Time. The free version is more than enough, but it comes with 1 device limit and a 10GB/month data cap. You can always switch to the premium tier when it’s not enough – it’s risk-free due to the 30-day money-back guarantee.
For a deeper investigation of Atlas VPN, read our Atlas VPN review.
6. PureVPN – Popcorn Time VPN with a vast network
24/7 live chat
120 Mbit/s
- Excellent speeds
- Extra cheap
- Great device compatibility
- Weak kill switch
Based in the British Virgin Islands, PureVPN is one of the best choices for Popcorn Time enthusiasts. It‘s more than well-suited for privacy-minded users, thanks to its twice independently-audited no-logs policy. What’s more, the provider accepts cryptocurrencies, so you remain anonymous through and through.
With 6500+ servers in 71+ countries, PureVPN boasts one of the best coverages location-wise. Most of the hardware is 10Gbps, with more 20Gbps servers popping up as time goes on. Throw the WireGuard tunneling protocol into the mix, and Popcorn Time streams will be nothing less than crisp 4K.
This VPN can unblock Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and works well with Kodi. Other entertainment venues aren’t out of the question either, and split tunneling makes sure everything runs as smooth as butter. We’re confident that connecting to countries where PureVPN allows P2P traffic will undoubtedly improve upon Popcorn Time.
Paying just $2.08/month with a PureVPN discount code is more than worth it, especially since you get 10 simultaneous connections. There is a 7-day trial that costs $0.99 if you want to test what you’re getting. And if you do end up subscribing, don’t forget the plans come with a generous 31-day money-back guarantee.
For a deeper investigation of PureVPN, read our PureVPN review.
What to look for in a Popcorn Time VPN
Naturally, since this platform deals with torrents, the best VPN for Popcorn Time should allow P2P. Additionally, it has to unblock geo-restricted content and provide fast speeds for quality streaming. Last but not least, the service must be privacy-oriented with robust security features.
Below you will find the criteria that we used to determine which VPN services should end up on this list:
- Zero-logs policy. The Popcorn Time VPN of your choice should not only prevent third parties from collecting your information but not do the same as well. Extra brownie points go to services that a trusted independent entity has audited. You might want to look into the best no-logs VPNs.
- P2P-friendly. Ideally, a VPN for Popcorn Time allows torrenting on all servers since this service is based on P2P. Dedicated servers are a nice touch, and split tunneling will help secure the streaming platform only, speeding everything up.
- Tight security. Ideally, you should search for a VPN that offers three essential tools. Military-grade encryption and leak protection to prevent your IP address and other sensitive data from getting exposed, and a kill switch in case the VPN connection crashes.
- Global presence. Reliable connections and access to specific locations are possible only with many servers scattered across numerous countries. Having a server close to you ensures excellent performance, too.
- Wicked-fast speeds. The scope doesn’t mean much if the service can’t deliver speed-wise. The fastest VPN providers make sure buffering is virtually nonexistent with the appropriate tunneling protocols.
- Unblocking. Popcorn Time is blocked in many countries, so your VPN should be able to circumvent this issue. What’s more, it should also unblock other popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, etc.
- Price. Paying more doesn’t mean you’re getting everything you need – the performance of some of the cheapest VPNs may surprise you in a good way.
How to use a VPN on your device with Popcorn Time
Setting up a VPN with Popcorn Time is extremely quick and easy, but depending on your device, the process differs. We’ve prepared a few short guides that will help you along the way.
How to watch Popcorn Time with a VPN on PC
Follow the instructions provided below and you’ll be watching anything you want on Popcorn Time in no time. Most importantly, you’ll be doing it safely. But first, we recommend subscribing to a VPN compatible with your device:
Guide for Popcorn Time VPN Windows setup:
- Download the appropriate Popcorn Time .exe file from its website and install it on your Windows PC. You can consult our Popcorn Time installation on Windows guide for a more detailed explanation.
- Download a Popcorn Time VPN. You can never go wrong with NordVPN.
- Install the software on your PC
- Select a server nearest to you
- Open the streaming app and begin watching!
Guide for Popcorn Time VPN Mac setup:
- Download the appropriate Popcorn Time .pkg file from its website and install it on your Mac. You can consult our Popcorn Time installation on Mac guide for a more detailed explanation.
- Subscribe to a robust VPN suitable for Popcorn Time. We strongly recommend NordVPN.
- Install the client on your computer
- Connect to the server closest to you
- Boot up the Popcorn Time app and enjoy streaming!
How to watch Popcorn Time with a VPN on mobile
Follow the instructions provided below and you’ll be watching anything you want on Popcorn Time in no time. Most importantly, you’ll be doing it safely. But first, we recommend subscribing to a VPN compatible with your device:
Guide for Popcorn Time VPN Android setup:
- Since Popcorn Time is not available on the Google Play Store, download the .apk file from its website and install it. We have a handy tutorial on how to install Popcorn Time on Android if you’re having trouble.
- Download a reliable VPN. We’ve found that NordVPN is the best VPN for Popcorn Time.
- Install the application on your phone
- Select a VPN server nearest to you for the best performance
- Freely watch your favorite shows!
Guide for Popcorn Time VPN iOS setup:
- You can’t download Popcorn Time through the Apple App Store, so you’ll have to get the installation file from its website. There are a few additional steps before that, though, so consult our Popcorn Time installation on iOS guide just in case.
- Subscribe to a trusted VPN. NordVPN hasn’t disappointed us yet.
- Install the software on your iPhone/iPad
- Connect to a server that is the closest to you
- Browse the vast selection of movies!
How to watch Popcorn Time with a VPN on streaming devices
Follow the instructions provided below and you’ll be watching anything you want on Popcorn Time in no time. Most importantly, you’ll be doing it safely. But first, we recommend subscribing to a VPN compatible with your platform:
Guide for Popcorn Time VPN Chromecast setup:
- Open the Popcorn Time download page and get the appropriate file for your OS. We have a detailed Popcorn Time installation on the Chromecast guide.
- Get a suitable VPN, such as NordVPN, and install it on your computer
- Connect to a server of your choice
- Open Popcorn Time and watch whatever you want!
Guide for Popcorn Time VPN Kodi setup:
- Open the Kodi app and install the Popcorn Time add-on on this device. Follow our Popcorn Time installation on Kodi guide for more detailed steps.
- Subscribe to a trustworthy VPN. NordVPN offers exceptional security features.
- Install the client on your router or directly on Kodi if possible
- Connect to a server best for you
- Open Popcorn Time and stream freely!
Guide for Popcorn Time VPN Roku setup:
- Download the Popcorn Time app on Roku. There are several ways you can do this depending on your OS, so we recommend checking our Popcorn Time installation on Roku guide for a full explanation.
- Download a P2P-friendly VPN. NordVPN is especially easy to set up on Roku.
- Install the VPN add-on on Roku or your router
- Select a server from the vast network list
- Begin watching!
Guide for Popcorn Time VPN Firestick setup:
- Download the Popcorn Time application on Firestick. We have a complete Popcorn Time installation on Firestick guide available.
- Grab the best torrenting VPN. Our top recommendation is NordVPN, now 57% off!
- Install the VPN client on your router
- Connect to a server closest to you
- Boot Popcorn Time and have a great time!
VPN not working with Popcorn Time
You’ve cozied up on the couch, snacks & drinks at the ready, but you suddenly can’t access this streaming service anymore. Well, it’s very likely that your Popcorn Time VPN is not working correctly. Stay calm and do some troubleshooting instead:
- Check if Popcorn Time is down. It’s not unusual for the service to be experiencing some downtime if the developers are deploying a new update. Check official sources for further information, just in case.
- Confirm your VPN allows P2P. Since Popcorn Time utilizes peer-to-peer sharing for streaming, your VPN must allow this traffic. Double-check the provider’s website for their stance on torrenting and whether it is enabled. If not, our recommended torrenting VPNs are your best best.
- Change the server. Some countries ban Popcorn Time streaming, so try connecting to regions where this service is freely available, like Switzerland. The platform itself might be blocking certain ports, so don’t be afraid to cycle through the options until you find one that works.
- Restart both Popcorn Time and the VPN. Sometimes all you need to do is reboot both applications. Open Popcorn Time first and then enable the VPN.
- Disable third-party firewalls. Third-party antivirus software might be preventing Popcorn Time from accessing P2P sharing websites. Whitelist the streaming service or disable the firewall and the antivirus.
- Reinstall Popcorn Time. Another solution is deleting Popcorn Time from your device and installing it again. Having outdated software might be messing with your viewing experience.
If the steps mentioned above fix nothing, you can always contact customer support for professional advice. But even if this doesn’t work, your last resort is switching to another Popcorn Time VPN provider, like NordVPN.
Free VPN for Popcorn Time
Only a few free VPNs for Popcorn Time are good. For starters, many free VPNs throttle your bandwidth, and that’s not good if you want to watch movies in crisp HD quality. Secondly, free services rarely provide the necessary protection by logging your data or leaking your IP address, not to mention having a proper kill switch.
As you understand, free VPNs are provided not by charities but by businesses that want to make a profit. Showing ads for their users is considered acceptable behavior. What’s more likely is that your personal data will be sold to third parties after additional tracking cookies are installed on the VPN client.
Your best option would be getting free trial versions of VPNs that support P2P. They come from vetted and trustworthy providers who are transparent about their practices.It’s more than enough time to try the full package, and you might end up subscribing to one service or another.
The Popcorn Time VPN warning
Frequent Popcorn Time users are likely familiar with the warning message that continually reminds them to use a VPN. More often than not it simply means you’re not utilizing the built-in VPN. To the frustration of many, there are no options in the settings to turn it off.
The message is embedded into the Popcorn Time app, and it still appears even if you have a VPN turned on. Doesn’t matter if it’s a third party or the one the streaming service recommends itself. Still, it doesn’t block you from watching shows and movies – close it and keep going.
Furthermore, it’s a great reminder that Popcorn Time and VPN go hand in hand. It’s best to keep yourself hidden from prying eyes, especially if you live in a country where torrenting is illegal. Changing your IP address stops your ISP and government from seeing all your online activities. And if they can’t see you, they can’t track and target you, helping you avoid landing in hot legal water.
But what about the Popcorn Time built-in VPN, you might be asking. Well, the provider clearly states that it logs all user activities. It hardly manages to bypass any geo-blocks as well. Then there’s plenty of rumours about bad performance and snail-like speeds. The reliability of Popcorn Time’s built-in VPN is less than sub-par. Thus, we highly recommend checking out reputable third-party Popcorn Time VPNs instead.
Bottom line
Popcorn Time is a neat free service that allows users to watch anything they want without paying a single cent. But since it involves copyrighted material, you are at risk of getting fined or ending up in jail.
Stop it. Get some help – the best Popcorn Time VPNs are here to hide you from anyone who might target you. Services like NordVPN change your IP address and encrypt all traffic, essentially making you invisible from all snoopers. Plus, optimized servers and the latest protocols better your streaming experience as well.
Are you a frequent user of Popcorn Time? Has using a VPN improved streaming? Let us know in the comments below!
You may also like to read:
Best VPN for HBO Max
Best VPN for Disney+
Best VPN for Putlocker
How to watch BBC iPlayer from anywhere
FAQ
Can I use any VPN for Popcorn Time?
No, you should use P2P-friendly VPNs for Popcorn Time since this streaming platform works via torrenting. If it’s not allowed, you won’t be able to watch anything. We recommend checking out the best Popcorn Time VPNs for this.
What is the best VPN for Popcorn Time?
NordVPN is the best Popcorn Time VPN. It has dedicated P2P serves, NordLynx-fuelled speeds, and a vast network, well-suited for streaming anywhere.
Which free VPN works best with Popcorn Time?
We recommend utilizing NordVPN’s free trial version. All features are available for a limited time, so you can try streaming, P2P sharing, accessing restricted content, and more.
Is it legal to use a VPN with Popcorn Time?
Yes, it’s legal to use a VPN with Popcorn Time, and the service constantly reminds users to do so. On the other hand, streaming copyrighted material is illegal in most countries and is punishable by law if you’re caught with such content. That’s why we strongly advise utilizing reliable VPNs.
Does a VPN slow down Popcorn Time?
Every VPN impacts your connection because it encrypts all your traffic and uses secure protocols to route it. Fortunately, our recommended VPN services provide good to incredible speeds and won’t slow down Popcorn Time, allowing you to watch it in high quality. Just make sure you’re connecting to the nearest server that’s not overcrowded.
Ever since the Netflix price increase after the site became so political, I’ve been searching for an alternative streaming service. Popcorn Time paired with a VPN with lots of servers sounds like a fabulous fit!