Last updated Nov 25, 2024 at 5am ET
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A VPN for streaming is a goldmine for shows and flicks enthusiasts worn out by virtual barriers that guard media hubs like Netflix or Max. Such platforms like to limit access to their website or content regionally for marketing and licensing reasons. Consequently, you may be unable to enjoy your favorite shows if you’re traveling outside the US, live in an unsupported area, and so forth.
The best VPN for streaming can unblock movies swiftly with little interaction from you. Thanks to packages of optimized features, only the top providers can wrestle with advanced detection systems on popular media platforms. It’s no easy feat, so we did the heavy lifting and tested the best streaming VPNs. With them in tow, you’ll no longer face error messages.
In this article, you’ll find the overview of the best VPN for streaming, how we picked them, and how to use one. We even slip in a quick overview of prominent entertainment media services.
Top 5 VPN for streaming: shortlist
- Best VPN for streaming anywhere9.8 / 10
- VPN with unlimited simultaneous connections9.5 / 10
- Reliable VPN with good country coverage8.2 / 10
- Performance-focused streaming VPN8.4 / 10
- VPN with dedicated streaming servers8.9 / 10
How to choose the best streaming VPN?
Some people might want to do some research themselves, and that’s totally fine. Just keep in mind that not all providers are suited for streaming. Thus, ensure your chosen premium VPN ticks off as many criteria points as possible:
- Can unblock multiple streaming services, not just a single one
- Offers a broad server network spanning all continents
- Facilitates excellent performance along with superb speeds and includes the latest tunneling protocols to achieve them
- One account is allowed several simultaneous connections
- Supported devices include not only popular operating systems but streaming peripherals as well
Want the very best streaming VPN that solves all your issues but requires little time and effort from you? World-class NordVPN is your guy. Powered by the unyielding NordLynx, the service propels stellar performance while breaking down all virtual barriers. Not even Netflix’s sophisticated detection systems stand a chance against this solution.
The best VPN for streaming: detailed list
- NordVPN – best VPN for streaming Netflix & other tough-nut platforms
- Surfshark VPN – well-rounded VPN for UHD streams anywhere
- Bitdefender VPN – solid streaming VPN with broad server network
- ExpressVPN – great VPN for streaming fast and in high quality
- CyberGhost – swift VPN for optimized streams on various media hubs
When picking the best candidates for streaming, we considered the aforementioned key aspects. Here are our top 5 streaming VPNs based on these factors. On the other hand, we also paid attention to usability. Each of the nominated VPNs interface navigation is a breeze, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cybernaut.
1. NordVPN – the best VPN for streaming abroad fast and conveniently
111
6400
24/7 live chat, Email
527 Mbit/s
- Top speeds in the industry
- SmartPlay for geo-block bypassing
- Intuitive & sleek app design
- Only 10 simultaneous connections
NordVPN is the best VPN for streaming outside the US and anywhere else. It’s located in Panama and adheres to an independently-audited no-logs policy. Plus, the provider has plenty of high-end features to ensure confidentiality while accessing and watching the latest shows. Take advantage of IP & DNS leak protection, two kill switches, and industry-leading encryption.
You’ll have no shortage of content libraries with a network of 6400+ RAM-only servers in 111 countries. And the proprietary NordLynx protocol guarantees blazing performance with minimal to no speed drops speeds no matter which connection point you pick. Thanks to it, everything you watch on Netflix, Peacock, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and other streaming platforms will be lag-free.
If 10 simultaneous connections aren’t enough for the household, NordVPN can be installed on a router for full coverage. As for other devices, stream freely on popular OS, along with Android TVs and Amazon Fire TV sticks. And if your peripheral doesn’t support VPN technology, the SmartPlay feature still lets you bypass geo-blocks on them.
Finally, the fastest VPN for streaming has excellent 24/7 live chat support and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Subscriptions start at only $2.99/month, but you can try getting a better deal with NordVPN coupons.
2. Surfshark – secure & reliable VPN for streaming movies without limits
100
3200
24/7 live chat, FAQ
552 Mbit/s
- Great performance with WireGuard
- Smart DNS for block circumvention
- No device limit
- Some features cost extra
Surfshark is the best VPN for watching movies in large households due to unlimited connections. When opting for this provider, you also get military-grade encryption, a kill switch, and advanced anti-censorship features. Moreover, its NoBorders and Camouflage modes make this service great for streamers in China.
First off, it offers incredible speeds throughout its entire fleet of 3200+ RAM-only servers across 100 countries. All thanks to the WireGuard tunneling protocol and Software Defined Networking (SDN). Secondly, streaming fans can rejoice as it unblocks Netflix, Peacock, Hulu, Amazon Prime, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and other streaming platforms.
Additionally, Surfshark VPN has apps for Amazon Fire TV Stick and Android TV. And with the help of Smart DNS, you can enjoy the benefits of a VPN on practically any streaming device that you own. It even works on PlayStation and Xbox consoles and includes secure browser add-ons.
This VPN for streaming can be yours at $1.99/month after applying a Surfshark discount code. If you have trouble using it, the responsive customer support is reachable via 24/7 live chat. And lastly, subscribing is risk-free with the 30-day money-back guarantee.
3. Bitdefender VPN – functional movies VPN with affordable pricing
50
4000
24/7 live chat
- Ad blocker for seamless viewing
- Unblocks popular streaming platforms
- WireGuard for optimal stream quality
- Collects some data
Bitdefender VPN is a streaming-friendly VPN for cord-cutters seeking an optimal cost-and-value ratio. Though it has fewer features, geo-block circumvention capabilities are up to par with industry-leading services. Besides, the standard trifecta propels success rate against geofences: kill switch, IP & DNS leaks, and split tunneling.
You’ll find no shortage of connection points with the arsenal of 4000+ servers in 50 countries. Moreover, the stream quality won’t buffer thanks to the WireGuard protocol, unless you connect to faraway servers. We had no issues unblocking Netflix US, though it struggled with other region libraries. Otherwise, BBC iPlayer, Max, Disney+, and others worked fine for the most part.
Though the streaming VPN doesn’t support routers, the 10 simultaneous connections in a single plan will cover the household fully. The coverage includes Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS devices. And no matter the gadget, you can unblock movies without ads thanks to in-house ad blocker on premium tiers.
The VPN doesn’t break your bank either. You can forget the limits of geo-blocks for $2.92/month. Otherwise, feel free to ransack Bitdefender VPN deals in search of something more up your alley. The standard 7-day free trial and 30-day money-back guarantee allow curious cats to test the service before committing.
4. ExpressVPN – VPN for streaming with great connectivity
105
3000
24/7 live chat, email
225 Mbit/s
- In-house Lightway protocol for great speeds
- MediaStreamer for seamless streaming
- Solid security features
- Expensive
A convenient streaming experience is a given with ExpressVPN. Powerful features secure your efforts, and not even the provider doesn’t see what you’re accessing, as the verified no-logs policy indicates. There’s even split tunneling if you want to customize your VPN connection to better suit your needs.
A subscription gets you thousands of RAM-only servers across 105 countries, which is more than enough for circumventing platform restrictions. The streams will be lag-free and won’t suffer from buffering, either, with the help of the in-house Lightway protocol. Take advantage of this to enjoy Netflix, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, and more in crisp HD quality.
ExpressVPN works on practically any streaming device you own, thanks to the MediaStreamer feature. Other than that, you get dedicated apps for popular OS, including Android TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, and Roku. And if 8 simultaneous connections aren’t enough, download the router applet.
You can get started with this streaming VPN at just $4.99/month. Of course, you could try lowering the price by utilizing ExpressVPN codes. Lastly, the 30-day money-back guarantee is right there if the service doesn’t live up to the hype.
5. CyberGhost – streaming VPN with a large server network
100
11700
24/7 live chat
- Dedicated streaming servers
- Unblocks Netflix and other platforms
- Smart Rules for customizing VPN connection
- macOS and iOS have fewer features
Looking for a versatile VPN for streaming? Then don’t overlook CyberGhost, which comes with dedicated streaming hardware capable of unblocking popular platforms. What’s more, the service is extra secure with an independently-audited no-logs policy, robust IP & DNS leak protection, and an automatic kill switch.
With 11700+ servers in 100 countries, getting access to a variety of foreign content is a piece of cake. Whether it’s regional Netflix libraries or BBC iPlayer, YouTube TV, and Amazon Prime Video, solid video quality and zero buffering are a given. Pick either WireGuard or IKEv2, sit back, and relax.
Put the dedicated apps for Amazon Firestick and Android TV to good use. Or the Smart DNS feature if you have devices that don’t natively support VPN software. You can even make it work with Kodi if you prefer this media player for your streaming needs. Lastly, every plan comes with 7 simultaneous connections.
Pick a CyberGhost discount coupon and subscribe for only $2.03/month. A 45-day money-back guarantee protects all plans, so you won’t lose any hard-earned cash. Got any questions? Get in touch with support via 24/7 live chat.
Best streaming VPN: comparison
Have no time to read every provider’s description? See how our top-rated services fare when matched against each other.
Naturally, NordVPN made it to the very top. In short, it offers the best value for affordable cost. The service unblocks all streaming services with 98% success rate as per our tests. Second best is Surfshark, which is a better pick for budget-conscious movie enthusiasts. The other three options—Bitdefender VPN, ExpressVPN, and CyberGhost—are up for preference.
 |  |  |  |  | |
| 🔗Website | www.nordvpn.com | www.surfshark.com | www.bitdefender.com | www.expressvpn.com | www.cyberghostvpn.com |
| ⭐Rating | 9.8 | 9.5 | 9 | 8.4 | 8.9 |
| 💸Price | $2.99/month | $1.99/month | $2.92/month | $4.99/month | $2.03/month |
| 💰Coupons | Now 74% off | Now 87% off | Now 50% off | Now 82% off | Now 84% off |
| 🌐Network | 6400+ servers in 111 countries | 3200+ servers in 100 countries | 4000+ servers in 50 countries | Thousands of servers in 105 countries | 11700+ servers in 100 countries |
| 🖇️Simult. connections | 10 | Unlimited | 10 | 8 | 7 |
| 🖥️Supported devices | Windows, Android, Linux, macOS, iOS, Android TV, Amazon Firestick, Roku, routers | Windows, Android, Linux, macOS, iOS, Android TV, Amazon Firestick, routers | Windows, Android, macOS, iOS | Windows, Android, Linux, macOS, iOS, Android TV, Amazon Firestick, Roku, routers | Windows, Android, Linux, macOS, iOS, Android TV, Amazon Firestick, routers |
| 🎞️Smart DNS | SmartPlay | Smart DNS | No | MediaStreamer | Yes |
| ➗Split tunneling | Yes | Bypasser | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| 📝Review | NordVPN review | Surfshark VPN review | Bitdefender VPN review | ExpressVPN review | CyberGhost review |
While you can expect an optimal streaming experience with all these VPNs, NordVPN is still the best for this pastime. There are multiple reasons for it, including blazing-fast speeds, excellent geo-block bypassing capabilities, and broad device support. Plus, it’s one of the most secure services with cheaper plans.
Best VPN for streaming: video review
Can’t be bothered with reading the whole thing? Then check out our video review of the best Streaming VPNs. It covers all the juicy parts of unblocking movies, with demonstrations even.
Why should you use a VPN while streaming
If you’re not satisfied with what your current streaming platform has to offer, you need a VPN. By using a reliable service, you can considerably expand your options by tearing down geographical restrictions.
What’s more, new platforms are created constantly. It may take a while for them to reach your country, but you don’t need to wait. What you have to do is connect to a server in your chosen region and enjoy freshly-baked content.
Finally, ISPs can throttle your bandwidth if they see that you’re using ridiculous amounts of data on streaming. However, with the help of a VPN, you can hide your binge-watching habits from all those nosy providers that would ruin your good time.
It is important to remember, though, that you should be picky about what service you choose. Only a reliable and acknowledged provider ensures you don’t get caught breaking the ToS of Netflix or other streaming platforms. Of course, there’s no need to fear, as most won’t ban you for using a VPN, just prevent you from viewing videos.
Can I use a streaming VPN to watch sports?
Yes, you can use a streaming VPN for sports. It’s the easiest way to watch live matches in places where they are unavailable due to either licensing agreements or blackouts. But remember that not any off-the-mill service will do.
Online sports broadcasters are especially adept at detecting and blocking VPN traffic. If your chosen provider doesn’t utilize top-notch security measures or refreshes their IP pool constantly, bypassing these VPN blocks will be a hassle. Thus, we recommend opting for services known to work with sports networks, like NordVPN.
How we tested streaming VPNs
Not all VPNs are suited for streaming, and those that are don’t always ensure you’ll have a great time. We carefully curated top 5 list according to these key aspects:
- Great speeds. You want to be able to enjoy videos in the best possible quality and with minimal buffering. We tested VPN speeds with Netflix, YouTube TV, BBC iPlayer, and other popular streaming platforms to check whether videos lagged, stuttered, etc. The ones that ended up on this list facilitated buffer-free streaming.
- Close vs. distant server performance. We also looked closer at how the VPN connection behaves on servers based on the physical distance. Slight buffers and drops in speed are expected on distant ones, but they shouldn’t make streams unwatchable.
- Server and country count. We leaned towards those with more servers, especially if they cover a wider range of countries. This way, you’ll be able to change your location with a VPN to the most optimal connection points for your situation. Plus, you’ll have access to a plethora of foreign content libraries.
- Additional perks. Split tunneling is great if you want to secure only the streaming app. Smart DNS helps you access foreign content on devices that don’t support VPN software. Some providers even offer specialized servers for streaming in general or dedicated for specific platforms, for example, Netflix. Naturally, we tested whether the perks of our best VPNs for streaming do have any impact in this area.
- Security & privacy. Ideally, you should be looking for a service with a zero-logs policy. Doing so would increase your chances of staying private and anonymous online. In addition, never overlook the essential VPN features like a kill switch, AES-256 encryption, and leak protection.
- Pricing. Pricier providers could be packed with features that you don’t need. And a higher price tag doesn’t always equal great performance. Meanwhile, a cheap VPN service might be enough to satisfy your streaming needs without sacrificing service quality.
What VPNs do streamers use?
Streamers, people who dedicate time to share their gameplay live, don’t shy away from VPNs either. They use it for quite different reasons than unblocking movies. Instead, they seek protection from possible doxxing or DoS (Denial of Service) attacks. Interestingly, they mostly rely on the same VPN services as our best streaming nominations: NordVPN and Surfshark. Many also use ExpressVPN.
If you’re a fan of streamers, the service may be relevant to you as well. Though Twitch or YouTube streams are rarely geo-blocked, they tend to lag unless you have a really good internet. A streaming VPN, especially with split tunneling that allows directing the encryption where you need it most, helps out with bandwidth troubles.
Is there a good free VPN for streaming?
The answer is, unfortunately, no. Even paid VPNs have trouble providing a good streaming experience. So, if a free service manages to unblock Netflix and other platforms, it often runs into connectivity issues.
As their servers are often overloaded, getting enough downloading speed is tricky. And we’re not talking about 4K video – even an HD stream might prove to be more than a costless provider can handle. Not to mention that most services have strict monthly bandwidth and data limits.
However, if you’re still looking for the best free VPN for streaming, you might find luck with Proton VPN – a free service that should unblock Netflix. There are no other options save for using the money-back guarantee or a free trial of a premium VPN.
Worst VPN for streaming
We mentioned that paid streaming VPNs aren’t all cut out for this job. That’s because major platforms are extremely protective of their copyrighted content and precious revenue. Hence, they actively combat VPN use. Here are those that failed our tests:
- Mullvad. It’s a great provider, but the primary focus is security. For this reason, the VPN isn’t capable of unblocking movies online on fiercer platforms like Netflix or Disney+. During our tests, it only unblocked Netflix US 3/10 times and worked best with BBC iPlayer, though with around 60% success.
- TunnelBear. The cute bear doesn’t deal that well with geo-block circumvention or streams. It managed to unblock websites like Disney+ and Max in less than half the attempts and the streams were rather laggy.
- PIA. This VPN is a solid pick generally, though it doesn’t belong among the best streaming VPNs. Unfortunately, our tests showcase inconsistency in PIA’s ability to unblock Netflix (US and other libraries, content remains hidden), Amazon Video Prime, and others.
Note that these providers are good in their own right. It’s just that they aren’t the best streaming VPNs in the market.
How to set up and use a VPN for streaming
Setting up the VPN for streaming is a walk in the park. We present you with a step-by-step installation process:
- Choose an excellent streaming VPN. Our top recommendation is NordVPN since it works with a wide array of streaming services.
- Download and install the software on your preferred device. If you want to set up the VPN on a router, we have a separate guide for that.
- Connect to any country from which you’d like to unblock a specific service or library
- Perform an IP and DNS leak test to ensure your actual location isn’t visible
- Launch any streaming service and be amazed and the amount of new content available!
Streaming VPN not working: solutions
It bears repeating that streaming platforms are pretty good at detecting your actual whereabouts. And it’s especially easy to do if there are traces of it left on your device. So, before you go running to your VPN provider’s customer support, try doing some troubleshooting yourself.
- Switch to another VPN server, as the one you’re using could be overcrowded or outright blocked
- Clear your browser’s cache and web cookies, as they might be leaking your location
- Check for IP and DNS leaks, and if they are visible, ensure the VPN’s security features are turned on
- Disable your device’s GPS tracking feature, as it might be conflicting with the IP address provided by the VPN
- Disable IPv6 if your internet supports and runs it because it can reveal your regio,
- Flush the DNS cache, as it also contains location data
- Reinstall your router’s TAP drivers if you’ve set up the VPN on it
Sometimes it’s as simple as changing your time zone to match the country you’re connected to. Only when you’ve exhausted all options is it time to contact support. And if even that doesn’t solve anything, it’s time to switch to a reputable streaming VPN.
VPN not working with a specific streaming platform?
Having trouble accessing a particular streaming platform while connected to a VPN. Check out our handy guides for quick solutions:
- Amazon Prime Video not working with a VPN
- BBC iPlayer not working with a VPN
- HBO Max not working with a VPN
- Hulu not working with a VPN
- Disney+ not working with a VPN
What are the best TV streaming services?
At this point, there are as many streaming platforms as there are fish in the sea. Most cost a pretty penny, so you have to be picky when it comes to subscribing. Besides that, some are available only in specific countries, meaning a VPN is necessary to access them.
| Netflix | Disney+ | HBO Max | Hulu | Peacock TV | BBC iPlayer | |
| Availability | 190+ countries | 130+ countries | 61+ countries | United States | United States | United Kingdom |
| Content | TV shows and movies | TV shows and movies | TV shows and movies | TV shows and movies | TV shows and movies | TV shows and movies |
| Originals | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Starting price | $9.99/month | $7.99/month | $15.99/month | $14.99/month | $4.99/month | Free |
| Free trial | No | No | No | 1 month (as supported) | Free plan (ad supported) | No |
| Simult. streams | 1-4 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 5 |
| Guides | Best VPN for Netflix | Best VPN for Disney+ | How to watch HBO Max online | How to watch Hulu outside the US | How to watch Peacock TV outside the US | How to watch BBC iPlayer from anywhere |
Best VPN for streaming: Reddit opinions
The collective voice of Reddit is one of the best venues for figuring out certain options. We dived into several VPN subreddits to hear every whisper. Many were divided. Some are skeptical about using VPNs to unblock movies, while others are all up for it. The experiences varied, but mostly Redditors liked NordVPN.
Top appreciated points were speed and reliability in bringing down geofences. The in-hour NordLynx protocol maintains a stable connection without compromising speed. Thus, you can stream even in 4K. What makes it especially reliable against detection is obfuscation and Double VPN features. They slip through even Netflix’s strictest binacles.
The best streaming VPN: final verdict
Choosing the best VPN for streaming enables you to ignore geo-blocks and reach movies and TV shows all around the globe. It also prevents your ISP from throttling your traffic. Furthermore, high-quality services can provide many security benefits that are essential when so much of our lives are spent online.
NordVPN is not only the best streaming VPN but the top service overall. It effectively unblocks popular streaming services such as Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and Hotstar, among many. And industry-leading security measures, along with the latest tunneling protocols, ensure robust protection without sacrificing performance.
You may also like to read:
Fastest VPNs
Best VPNs for multiple devices
Best VPNs for Kodi
Best VPNs for Roku
Best VPNs for Amazon Firestick
Best VPNs for Android TV
How to watch The Edge of Sleep outside US
FAQ
Is a VPN for streaming worth it?
A good VPN for streaming is worth it if you want to get the most out of your streaming service. It will unlock more content from around the world with negligible connection speed reductions. This technology also hides your data-intensive activities from your ISP, preventing them from throttling your internet.
What is the fastest VPN for streaming?
The fastest VPN for streaming is NordVPN. With its proprietary NordLynx tunneling protocol, it consistently tops VPN speed tests. Plus, it has a vast server network that spans all continents, which also boosts performance.
Does a VPN improve streaming?
A VPN can only improve streaming if your bandwidth is being throttled by your ISP. Other than that, it enhances your viewing experience by unlocking content and services available only in select countries.
Which VPN is best for live streaming?
The best VPN for live streaming is NordVPN. Its in-house NordLynx tunneling protocol upkeeps great speeds throughout, while powerful security measures keep your actual identity and location hidden. Thus, you can access any live stream you want.
What is the best streaming VPN?
NordVPN is the top streaming VPN. It consistently unblocks popular streaming platforms, ensures lag-free videos with the top speeds in the industry, and prevents your data from leaking with a high-quality toolkit.
Have you checked Atlas VPN? Its free to use, but it supports streaming US Netflix at 1080p. The downside is that Atlas doesn’t support PC client, but at the same time its free to use and doesn’t cap data usage, if it supported a PC version too I think it would be hands down the best option for streaming.
This is perfect! I’ve been looking for a VPN to watch Hulu. Do any of these options work better with different browsers? I use Chrome all the time and want the best fit for that.
Hi Meeple, you won’t go wrong with any of the services we’ve listed here, but if you’re still looking for a VPN aimed at streaming Hulu specifically, be sure to check out our Best VPN Services list.