Getting the best Roku VPN can add an extra dimension to your use of the TV streaming platform, giving you access to streaming libraries from around the world.
My research found Surfshark to be the best Roku VPN around. It allows you to connect an unlimited number of devices, including a router – which is the best way to use a VPN for Roku. In this article, I’ll explore the best VPNs for Roku and look at how to install a VPN on your router.
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ExpressVPN – Best VPN for Roku with a Dedicated Router App
The Best VPNs on Roku Ranked
Our experts have tested numerous providers to find the best Roku VPN so you can make an informed decision about the best one for you.
- Surfshark – Best Roku VPN overall
- NordVPN – Best Roku VPN for security-conscious streamers
- ExpressVPN – Best VPN for Roku with a dedicated router app
- PureVPN – Excellent budget VPN for Roku
- PrivadoVPN – Strong freemium VPN service for Roku
- CyberGhost – Best Roku VPN for server choice
How to Choose the Best VPN for Roku TV
Not all VPNs are the same – some are better than others at unblocking streaming services, for example, while others excel at privacy and security. If you’re looking for a VPN to stream Roku, consider the following details:
- Streaming Support – Look for a provider that has a good reputation for unblocking content and works on different streaming platforms.
- Security – Providers need to ensure your data is protected, ideally with a strict no-logs policy that has been audited by third parties.
- Speed – To stream content in HD or 4K, VPN needs to provide reliable, high-speed connection speeds.
- Server Network – The more servers a VPN has to offer, the better it is for you, giving you more freedom regarding the content you can stream from locations around the world. A service with a low server count will generally limit the number of locations you have access to and may have congested servers.
- Device Compatibility – To work with Roku, any VPN you consider has to be compatible with routers. It’s also worth checking if the provider is compatible with other devices with different operating systems.
The Best VPNs for Roku Reviewed
While testing the top VPNs for this guide, I looked at the number of servers on offer, connection speeds, and, crucially, router support.
Here are the top six providers that made it to my best Roku VPN shortlist after evaluating over 20 VPNs:
1. Surfshark – Best Roku VPN Overall
Starting Price | Server Count and Locations | Streaming | Connections | Compatibility |
---|---|---|---|---|
$1.99/month | 3,200+, 100 | Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, Amazon Prime, Disney+, HBO Max | Unlimited | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, FireTV, Apple TV, Browsers |
Why We Picked It
I’ve identified Surfshark as the best VPN for Roku. It lets you connect an unlimited number of devices, unlike most VPN providers, and, based on my testing, it’s currently the fastest VPN out there.
Features
Surfshark is equipped with a Smart DNS feature, which gives you access to geo-restricted content libraries without the need to install an app on smart devices. If you want to use Surfshark for Roku, as with other VPNs, you’ll need to install it on your router, which I found pretty straightforward in my tests.
This not only gives you the benefit of streaming Roku channels but also offers VPN protection to all devices connected to your network. Surfshark doesn’t offer a dedicated VPN app for your router, unlike some providers, but it does have detailed guides, including instructions on how to set up Surfshark on your router.
Surfshark has a 3,200-strong server fleet. While its server count isn’t as high as NordVPN or CyberGhost’s, its network covers over 100 countries, so I was able to easily unblock platforms like Netflix US and Hulu from Europe during my tests.
The service also comes with lots of security measures, including AES 256-bit encryption, an effective kill switch, server obfuscation, and more. In addition, everything from its infrastructure to its no-logs policy has been independently audited. In other words, you can rest assured knowing that your privacy will be protected at all times.
Pricing
Surfshark is also among the most affordable VPNs on my list, starting at just $1.99/month with a two-year subscription. You benefit from a 7-day free trial on Mac, iOS, and Android, and there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Who It’s Best For
Surfshark is an ideal choice for streaming enthusiasts who need great performance, security, and unblocking capabilities without breaking the bank.
For more information, read our Surfshark review.
Pros
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Affordable
- Excellent streaming capabilities
- One of the fastest VPNs
- Audited no-logs policy
- Smart DNS feature
Cons
- No dedicated router app
2. NordVPN – Best Roku VPN for Security-Conscious Streamers
Starting Price | Server Count and Locations | Streaming | Connections | Compatibility |
---|---|---|---|---|
$2.99/month | 6,800+, 111+ | Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, HBO Max, Disney+ | 10 | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, Browsers |
Why We Picked It
NordVPN made it to my best Roku VPN shortlist thanks to its advanced security features. It’s also one of the most popular VPN providers around, and it’s capable of unblocking most streaming platforms.
Features
Like all of the best Roku VPNs, NordVPN comes with a Smart DNS feature – called SmartPlay – which allows you to access geo-restricted content, even on devices that don’t support VPN connections.
NordVPN also supports various router models and firmware, including DD-WRT, Tomato, and AsusWRT. Like Surfshark, it doesn’t offer a dedicated app for your router, but I found the provider’s router setup guide easy to understand and follow.
NordVPN also has an audited no-logs policy, and its apps and infrastructure have been independently tested. And with a fleet of over 6,800 servers and the propriety NordLynx protocol, you can expect exceptional speeds (over 930Mbps, based on my tests), regardless of your location.
Security-wise, you benefit from military-grade AES-256 encryption and a highly reliable kill switch. I also love the Threat Protection feature, which blocks malware and trackers in real time.
Pricing
NordVPN is budget-friendly, with prices starting from $2.99/month with a two-year subscription. You can test the service via its 7-day Android free trial, plus there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee to protect your purchase.
Who It’s Best For
NordVPN is the best option for security-conscious users who want to keep their viewing habits private and access geo-restricted streaming content from anywhere.
For more information, read our NordVPN review.
Pros
- Large server fleet
- Exceptionally fast connections
- Numerous independent security audits
- Smart DNS and Meshnet technology
Cons
- Only six simultaneous connections
- No dedicated router app
3. ExpressVPN – Best VPN for Roku with a Dedicated Router App
Starting Price | Server Count and Locations | Streaming | Connections | Compatibility |
---|---|---|---|---|
$4.99/month | 3,000+, 105 | Netflix, HBO, Hulu, Disney+, ESPN, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video | 8 | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Apple TV, Fire TV, Browsers |
Why We Picked It
ExpressVPN is among the few providers to offer a dedicated VPN app for your router, which makes the Roku setup process much easier than it is with most of the competition.
Features
If working on your router settings isn’t for you, you can grab one of ExpressVPN’s Aircove routers, which already have the VPN installed. This is a great option for getting ExpressVPN on Roku.
Much like Surfshark, it’s equipped with a Smart DNS feature that allows you to stream on devices that don’t typically allow for VPN connections. However, while Surfshark allows for unlimited connections, ExpressVPN only supports up to eight devices on a single account.
ExpressVPN maintained ~560Mbps of my original 1Gbps broadband speed in testing, so it’s not the fastest option out there. Nevertheless, I was able to stream 4K content without buffering on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and BBC iPlayer. And with servers in over 100 countries around the world, accessing streaming libraries is as easy as switching locations.
Being based in the British Virgin Islands means the provider is under no obligation to share user information, and its RAM-only servers ensure no user data is retained, with a complete wipe after every reboot. You’ll also be happy to know that its security practices have been independently audited by third parties like Cure53.
Pricing
Starting at $4.99/month, ExpressVPN is more expensive than its competitors, but its long list of security and privacy features makes it well worth the cost. It also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free.
Who It’s Best For
ExpressVPN is my top recommendation for less tech-savvy users who want to avoid the hassle of manually setting a router VPN while also enjoying solid performance and easy access to global content on Roku TVs.
For more information, read our ExpressVPN review.
Pros
- Dedicated router app
- Audited no-logs policy
- Easy to set up and use
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Next-level customer support
Cons
- More expensive than most competitors
- No dedicated IP
4. PureVPN – Excellent Budget VPN for Roku
Starting Price | Server Count and Locations | Streaming | Connections | Compatibility |
---|---|---|---|---|
$1.69/month | 6,000+, 65+ | Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube TV | 10 | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, Browsers |
Why We Picked It
PureVPN is one of the most affordable VPNs on the market, and it boasts more servers than some of the big players – so it’s easy to see why it’s on the list of the best Roku VPNs.
Features
When it comes to unblocking streaming services, PureVPN proved as good as the likes of Surfshark and NordVPN during my tests, and with the WireGuard protocol, you can expect crisp HD quality when streaming Roku channels.
PureVPN doesn’t offer a dedicated router app, but it does support a long list of routers and firmware, including D-Link and Belkin devices. If you want to configure your router, PureVPN provides guides on exactly how to do this.
With PureVPN’s split tunneling, you can prioritize your traffic and decide which data goes through the VPN. I found the feature very easy to use, and it’s a great way to optimize your VPN usage.
You’ll also appreciate PureVPN’s 20Gbps servers, which ensure high-quality streaming on Roku devices. They retained north of 820Mbps of my 1Gbps baseline speed during testing and watching content on platforms like India’s SonyLiv was buffer-free, regardless of the server distance.
Pricing
PureVPN offers the best value for money on my list, with prices starting at $1.69/month. Unfortunately, a 7-day trial will cost you $0.99, but you can still take advantage of the provider’s 31-day money-back guarantee for a risk-free test drive.
Who It’s Best For
PureVPN is a top choice for Roku users who want an affordable VPN for long-term use without compromising on performance and security features.
For more information, read our PureVPN review.
Pros
- Low budget VPN
- Large server fleet
- Unblocks most streaming services
- Allows for ten simultaneous connections
Cons
- No router app
- No 24/7 customer support
5. PrivadoVPN — Strong Freemium VPN Service for Roku
Starting Price | Server Count and Locations | Streaming | Connections | Compatibility |
---|---|---|---|---|
$1.11/month | 300+, 47+ | Netflix, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, BBC, Disney+ | 10 | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Android TV, Fire TV |
Why We Picked It
PrivadoVPN is great for unblocking streaming platforms, and it has a free plan. This has a 10GB monthly data cap, which is sufficient for about an hour of 4K streaming, but it’s still a great way to test the service before committing.
Features
If you want to use PrivadoVPN’s free plan to stream on Roku, you can install the VPN on your PC and cast the content to your smart TV. For router support, you’ll need to subscribe to the premium plan, which supports routers.
PrivadoVPN operates out of Switzerland, which is a country with some of the strongest consumer privacy protection laws in the world. In addition, Switzerland doesn’t belong to any international surveillance groups, meaning they are under no obligation to share user data, so you can rest easy knowing your data is protected.
PrivadoVPN’s server network covers 50 countries, which is low compared to the other VPNs I’ve tested for this guide. Nevertheless, I had no issues unblocking the Netflix libraries of countries like the US, UK, and Canada from Europe.
Privacy and security-wise, PrivadoVPN offers advanced AES 256-bit encryption, ad ad-blocker, and even parental controls.
Pricing
PrivadoVPN is the cheapest VPN on my list, costing just $1.11/month with a two-year subscription. There’s also a solid free version, but the 10Gbps monthly data cap is problematic, especially when it comes to streaming. That’s why I recommend using Privado’s 30-day money-back guarantee to test the service.
Who It’s Best For
PrivadoVPN is a solid choice for Roku users who need a free VPN for casual streaming. In addition, the VPN’s paid plans are a good option for privacy-focused users.
For more information, read our PrivadoVPN review.
Pros
- Free plan
- Works well with streaming platforms
- Includes parental controls
- Very affordable
Cons
- 10GB limit on free plan
- Low server count
6. CyberGhost – Best Roku VPN for Server Choice
Starting Price | Server Count and Locations | Streaming | Connections | Compatibility |
---|---|---|---|---|
$2.03/month | 11,700+, 115 | Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Crunchyroll, Fox Sports, YouTube TV, Amazon Prime | 7 | Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Browsers |
Why We Picked It
CyberGhost is equipped with the largest server fleet on this list. Coupled with its streaming-optimized servers and the WireGuard protocol, it can deliver stable performance with excellent connection speeds.
Features
As CyberGhost manages the number of users on each server, you won’t experience any lag or buffering due to overcrowding. In addition, its streaming-optimized servers delivered speeds of over 720Mbps during my tests, and I liked that you get specialized options for platforms like Netflix and BBC iPlayer.
CyberGhost also comes with an ad-blocker and a security suite that can block malware and spyware. Notably, it also offers Smart DNS, which is important if you want to stream via Roku.
If you want more advanced features like obfuscation, you might consider providers like Surfshark or NordVPN, but you won’t go wrong with CyberGhost if you want a VPN for streaming access.
Pricing
CyberGhost is reasonably priced, costing just $2.03/month with a two-year subscription. You also get between one- and three-day free trials, depending on your device, plus a generous 45-day money-back guarantee.
Who It’s Best For
CyberGhost is a great option for users who need flexibility when choosing servers. It’s also a good fit if you’re after robust performance at an affordable price.
For more information, read our CyberGhost review.
Pros
- Largest server fleet on the list
- Fast connection speeds
- Generous 45-day money-back guarantee
- RAM-only servers
Cons
- iOS and Mac apps have fewer features
Comparing the Best Roku TV VPNs
The table below contains all the key details you need to compare the best Roku VPNs on our shortlist, including their pricing, server networks, and compatibility options.
Roku VPN Provider | Starting Price | Server Count and Locations | Streaming | Connections | Compatibility |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Surfshark | $1.99/month | 3,200+, 100 | Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, Amazon Prime, Disney+, HBO Max | Unlimited | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, FireTV, Apple TV, Browsers |
ExpressVPN | $4.99/month | 3,000+, 105 | Netflix, HBO, Hulu, Disney+, ESPN, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video | 8 | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Apple TV, Fire TV, Browsers |
NordVPN | $2.99/month | 6,800+, 100+ | Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, HBO Max, Disney+ | 10 | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, Browsers |
PureVPN | $1.69/month | 6,000+, 65+ | Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube TV | 10 | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, Browsers |
PrivadoVPN | $1.99/month | 300+, 47+ | Netflix, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, BBC, Disney+ | 10 | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Android TV, Fire TV |
CyberGhost | $2.03/month | 11,500+, 115 | Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Crunchyroll, Fox Sports, YouTube TV, Amazon Prime | 7 | Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Browsers |
How We Review and Test VPN Services
20 VPNS TESTED
25 DATA POINTS MEASURED
300+ HOURS TESTING
500+ USER REVIEWS READ
To provide our readers with accurate and well informed recommendations, we tested 20 leading VPN services to find the best in the market. Our methodology consists of the following criteria:
- Security Features: We made sure that the provider uses standard security features and a secure tunneling protocol.
- Privacy Policies: We looked for VPNs that come with a no-logs policy, and verify the extend to which user privacy is upheld.
- Speed: We run speed tests three times a day and draw an average of the result to see how much of the original broadband speed is retained.
- Compatibility: We ensure the VPN provider offers multiple simultaneous connections and is compatible with the most popular operating systems.
- Geo-unblocking: We test whether the VPN service can unlock different libraries (content available in different countries) on the most popular streaming platforms.
- Customer Experience: When researching products and services, we read real user experiences and test out their customer support channels ourselves.
- Price and Value for Money: We set out to recommend reasonably priced products that offer value for money.
Why Do You Need a VPN for Roku?
That said, Roku devices don’t have native VPN support or Roku VPN apps, so you’ll need to encrypt your connection via your router. This doesn’t just allow access to international streaming services, but it also offers VPN protection for any device that’s connected to your network.
Can You Get A Good Free VPN for Roku?
PrivadoVPN offers a limited free plan, which can come in handy in some use cases. However, most free VPNs have a set data limit, which will always be problematic when streaming Roku TV, and not all free plans allow you to set up your VPN on a router.
Given this, you can’t really find a good free VPN for Roku TV, with the dual challenge of setting up the connection and then getting very limited use. It’s far better to opt for a paid plan instead.
Many providers offer trials, and all VPN operators offer money-back guarantees, meaning you can try them out and get a refund if the service doesn’t meet your needs.
How to Use VPN on Roku
We’ll now run through how to set your router up with Surfshark. In order to do this, you’ll need a key pair, and I’ll explain how to get one in this guide. Here’s how to handle the Roku VPN setup.
Go to Surfshark’s home page and click “Get Surfshark.” Pick an applicable plan from the plans page, enter your details, and download the VPN.
Once you’ve logged into your account, click on “VPN,” then on “Manual Setup.” Select the router option and click on WireGuard.
The next window will ask about your key pair. Select “I don’t have a key pair.”
The app will ask you to name your new key pair.
Once you’ve named it, click “Generate a new key pair” and save the key pair in a safe place so you can find them.
Next, click “Choose location,” and you’ll see a list of available server locations to connect to.
Once you’ve selected an appropriate location, click the download button next to it.
The next step is to open your router’s control panel. You can do this by entering your router’s IP address into the URL search bar in your browser. If you have a DD-WRT router, the default address is likely to be 192.168.1.1.
Once you’ve logged into your router, navigate to the “Setup” tab, click on “Tunnels,” and then “Add Tunnel.”
Now, click on “Enable” next to the tunnel settings. Select a protocol, such as WireGuard.
Next, you’ll need to paste in your private key, which you should have generated earlier. Following this, fill in the information in the applicable fields.
Click on “Add Peer” and complete the form with the relevant information. Then click on “Apply Settings” and “Save.”
Once the setup is complete, you should test to see if the VPN connection is working. Do this by performing a Surfshark IP and DNS leak test, which you can do via the Surfshark site. With all this done, you can now connect your Roku TV to your router and stream on a secure, encrypted connection.
More VPN and Cybersecurity Guides
Our experts have substantial experience testing the best VPN services to bring you in-depth reviews. If you’d like to learn more about these VPN services, take a look at some of our other articles.
Conclusion – What is the Best VPN for Roku TVs?
Since Roku doesn’t natively support VPN apps, you’ll need a service that allows easy router setup and offers solid unblocking capabilities for access to geo-restricted streaming libraries.
Of all the options on my list, Surfshark stands out as the best Roku VPN. It works well on routers and is among the fastest VPNs on the market, so buffer-free playback is a given. With access to a global server network and features like Smart DNS, you’ll enjoy streaming services from all over the world while keeping your personal info and viewing habits private.