If you’re looking for the best VPN for streaming, you should prioritize strong unblocking capabilities that allow you to access geo-specific content on popular streaming platforms like Netflix, iPlayer, and Prime Video without buffering or lags.
Choosing the right service will make a huge difference to your experience, whether you want to use a VPN to stream Netflix originals, binge British series on BBC iPlayer, or stream live sports. There are numerous fast and secure VPNs on the market, though, so we’ve tested out numerous solutions for this guide to help you find the best streaming VPN for your needs.
Best Streaming VPNs at a Glance
- Surfshark – Best VPN for streaming on unlimited devices
- PureVPN – Best streaming VPN with a dedicated IP
- ExpressVPN – Fast VPN for streaming content in geo-restricted locations
- NordVPN – Secure streaming VPN with obfuscated servers
- CyberGhost – Best beginner-friendly VPN for streaming
- Show Full Guide
Best VPNs for Streaming Reviewed
We considered factors such as streaming performance and speed, server fleet, geo-unblocking capabilities, and compatibility with various devices to offer you only the best streaming VPN solutions.
We also considered overall security, privacy, and advanced features that can enhance the streaming experience.
1. Surfshark – Best VPN for Streaming With Unlimited Simultaneous Connections
Streaming Platforms Unblocked | Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max and more |
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Max Devices | Unlimited |
Server Network | 3,200+ servers in 100+ countries |
Starting Price | $2.19/month |
Pros
- Affordable
- Unblocks most popular streaming websites
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Smart DNS and Camouflage Mod
Cons
- No free plan
- Based in a 14-Eyes Alliance nation
2. PureVPN – Secure VPN for Streaming With a Dedicated IP
Streaming Platforms Unblocked | Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max and more |
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Max Devices | 10 |
Server Network | 6,500+ servers in 65+ countries |
Starting Price | $3.99/month |
Pros
- Affordable plans
- Large server network
- Dedicated IP add-on
- Always-On Audit
Cons
- Dedicated IP costs extra
- Mobile apps could have more features
3. ExpressVPN – Best VPN for Fast HD Streaming
Streaming Platforms Unblocked | Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, YouTube TV, and more |
---|---|
Max Devices | 8 |
Server Network | 3,000+ servers in 105+ countries |
Starting Price | $6.67/month |
Pros
- Fast Lightway protocol
- Unblocks popular streaming platforms
- Advanced features like Smart Location
- User-friendly apps
Cons
- Premium prices
- No free plan
4. NordVPN – Secure Streaming VPN with Advanced Privacy Features
Streaming Platforms Unblocked | Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max and more |
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Max Devices | 10 |
Server Network | 6,400+ servers in 111+ countries |
Starting Price | $3.39/month |
Pros
- Advanced security features
- SmartPlay technologies
- Wide server network
- Excellent speeds
Cons
- Free trial only for Android devices
- Entry plan is relatively basic
5. CyberGhost – Best User-Friendly VPN for Streaming
Streaming Platforms Unblocked | Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max and more |
---|---|
Max Devices | 7 |
Server Network | 11,500+ servers in 100+ countries |
Starting Price | $2.03/month |
Pros
- Intuitive interface
- Wide server network
- Automatic Wi-Fi protection
- Effective kill switch
Cons
- Limited features
- No free plan
Best Streaming VPN Services Compared
The comparison table below highlights the key differences among the best VPNs for streaming, making it easier to identify the ideal provider for your specific needs:
Surfshark | PureVPN | ExpressVPN | NordVPN | CyberGhost | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Simultaneous Connection | Unlimited | 10 | 8 | 10 | 7 |
Server Fleet | 3,200 servers in 100+ countries | 6,500+ servers in 65 countries | 3,000+ servers in 105 countries | 6,400+ servers in 111 countries | 11,700+ servers in 100+ location |
Unblocks Streaming Platforms | Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max and more | Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max and more | Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max and more | Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max and more | Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max and more |
Kill Switch | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
Free trial | 7 days | 7 days | 7 days | 7 days | Windows and macOS: 24 hours, Android: 3 days, iOS: 7 days |
Starting Price | $2.19/month | $3.99/month | $6.67/month | $3.39/month | $2.03/month |
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 Streaming?
If you enjoy watching shows and movies online, you may have experienced the disappointment of being unable to access content due to regional restrictions. This is where a VPN optimized for streaming can help.
By connecting to a VPN server, you can use an IP address corresponding to a different geographic location. This can give you access to geo-specific content libraries from streaming service providers and enable you to watch exclusive content that’s not accessible in your region.
A VPN for streaming also provides enhanced online privacy and security. Without a VPN, your Internet Service Provider (ISP) can track your online activity and throttle your connection speed if it detects high bandwidth consumption. This can lead to buffering, reduced video quality, and a not-so-seamless streaming experience.
A VPN can also safeguard your personal information from security threats, such as hackers and cybercriminals, who might attempt to intercept your data when you’re connected to the internet or a public Wi-Fi network.
Is Streaming With a VPN Legal?
Yes, streaming with a VPN is legal in most countries.
Using a VPN itself isn’t illegal, and VPNs are simply tools that encrypt your internet traffic and hide your IP address. However, using a VPN to access geo-specific content or circumvent copyright laws could violate the terms of use of certain streaming service providers.
In addition, some countries, like China, North Korea, Belarus, Russia, and Iran, heavily restrict or ban VPN use altogether. In these countries, using a VPN for any purpose, including streaming, could be illegal and result in fines or other legal consequences.
Some streaming service providers are also cracking down on VPN use. For example, Netflix has implemented sophisticated VPN detection systems to identify and block VPN traffic. As a result, not all VPNs can unblock different Netflix libraries or the respective libraries of other streaming platforms.
To stay completely safe, always check the laws and regulations of VPN use in your country and read the terms of service for the streaming platforms you use. Also, make sure to stick with reputable VPN providers with a proven track record of unblocking streaming content without compromising your privacy or security.
If you’re considering using unofficial streaming services, see our guide on “Is 123Movies Safe?”
Which Streaming Services Work With a VPN?
VPNs open up a much broader range of content on streaming platforms. Some of the most popular streaming providers are:
Can You Stream Cable TV with a VPN?
Are you cutting the cord but still want to enjoy your favorite cable TV channels? A VPN can help you access popular cable networks like ESPN, CNN, and HGTV from anywhere in the world.
To stream cable TV with a VPN, you’ll need to subscribe to a streaming service that offers live TV channels, such as Sling TV, YouTube TV, or Hulu + Live TV. These platforms provide access to numerous cable networks, allowing you to stream sports online, as well as access news and entertainment channels.
Once you subscribe, simply connect to a US-based VPN server and start streaming.
In addition to streaming on your computer or mobile device, you can also use a VPN to watch cable TV on your smart TV or through a streaming device like Amazon Fire Stick. Many top VPN providers offer apps for popular smart TV platforms and streaming devices, so securing your connection and accessing geo-blocked content is easy.
What Is the Best VPN Protocol for Streaming?
WireGuard is the best VPN protocol for streaming movies, TV shows, sports events, and more.
While OpenVPN speeds are around the 200 Mbps mark, using NordVPN, Surfshark, or ExpressVPN on a WireGuard connection, or an alternative, can give you speeds of around 950 Mbps.
WireGuard is also extremely stable, meaning that the connection speed remains consistent. That means you won’t face any jitters even if you’re switching from a WiFi network to cellular data or vice versa.
With WireGuard, connecting to a VPN server takes less than a second. Providers like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Proton VPN also have an auto-connect feature, so it’s even faster.
Beginners will love how simple it is to set up and use WireGuard. Unlike OpenVPN or IKEv2/IPSec, you won’t be bombarded with customization options or complex setup processes.
Protocol | Speed & Performance | Security & Encryption | Ease of Setup | Best For |
---|---|---|---|---|
WireGuard | Excellent | Excellent | Easy | Unblocking content and tasks demanding class-leading speeds |
PPTP | Fast | Weak | Very easy | Old devices |
L2TP/IPSec | Moderate | Strong | Moderate | Privacy-focused users |
OpenVPN | Good | Excellent | Moderate | Unblocking geo-restricted content |
SSTP | Good | Strong | Moderate | Windows users |
IKEv2/IPSec | Excellent | Excellent | Easy | Mobile devices, speed, and privacy |
Proprietary VPN Protocols for Streaming
Is WireGuard the best? Two other protocols worth your attention are ExpressVPN’s Lightway and NordVPN’s NordLynx.
NordLynx is possibly the fastest of the lot – and NordVPN is officially the fastest VPN on the market right now.
It’s also pretty solid security-wise, given that it uses the ChaCha20 encryption technology and the Double NAT system to assign dynamic IP addresses to its users. This makes it nearly impossible for anyone to trace your online activities back to you.
On the other hand, Lightway is more secure than WireGuard because it supports both UDP and TCP. TCP will amp up your security when you connect to public WiFi networks in places like airports and corporate offices.
In summary, WireGuard is good, and NordLynx and Lightway are better. Given this, it’s really up to you to decide which propriety protocol you favor.
How to Choose the Best VPN for Streaming
When selecting the best VPN for streaming, it’s important to consider several key factors that can significantly impact your viewing experience.
Some of the most important aspects to keep in mind, whether you’re considering NordVPN, Surfshark, or Private Internet Access are:
Streaming compatibility – The VPN must be able to unblock the specific streaming services you want to access. Look for providers with a proven track record of consistently bypassing geo-restrictions on popular platforms like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and more.
Connection speed – Fast and stable connection speeds are essential for a smooth streaming experience. Choose a VPN with optimized servers and advanced technology to minimize buffering and ensure high-quality video playback.
Server network – A wide server network is crucial for accessing geo-restricted content in different countries. Opt for a VPN provider with servers located in regions where the streaming content you want to access is available.
Security and privacy – Robust encryption and security features are necessary to protect your online activities while streaming. Look for VPNs with strong encryption protocols, a strict no-logs policy, and advanced features like a kill switch to safeguard your privacy.
User-friendly apps – Easy-to-use apps for your preferred streaming devices make setting up and using the VPN simple. The best streaming VPNs provide an intuitive graphical user interface for devices, including Smart TVs, streaming sticks, and gaming consoles.
Customer support – Reliable customer support ensures you can get help when needed, especially if you encounter technical issues while streaming. Choose a VPN provider that offers 24/7 live chat support and email assistance.
How to Set Up and Use a VPN for Streaming
Setting up a VPN for streaming is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps to use Surfshark, which offers fast speeds, a large server network, and reliable connections, and enjoy your favorite content from anywhere.
Sign Up for a Surfshark Plan
The first step is to go to Surfshark’s website, choose a plan that fits your budget and streaming needs, and create an account.
Download and Install the VPN App
Next, download and install the VPN app for your preferred streaming device. Ensure that you grant it any necessary permissions to function properly.
Log in and Connect to a Server
Open the Surfshark app and log in to your account. Once logged in, browse the list of available server locations and pick the best one for your needs and location.
Start Streaming
Open Surfshark and browse the content library with the VPN connection enabled. You should now have access to the region-specific content.
Can You Use a Free Streaming VPN?
If you’re looking for the best free VPN for streaming, Windscribe and ProtonVPN are two providers that offer limited free plans with streaming capabilities.
Windscribe’s free plan offers 10GB of data per month and access to servers in various countries, which may be sufficient for streaming a movie or a couple of episodes of a show. On the other hand, ProtonVPN’s free plan provides access to servers in five countries and has no data limits.
However, due to data and server location limitations, free streaming VPNs might make your streaming experience unworkable. Frequent buffering or the inability to access content in your preferred location makes free VPNs a less ideal option.
Some free providers may also log your online activities, sell your data to third parties, or expose you to malware and other security threats. This not only compromises your personal information but also puts your device at risk.
Because of this it’s generally recommended to avoid using free VPNs for streaming. The better option is to go for freemium VPNs, like Surfshark or ExpressVPN, which offer free trials or money-back guarantees.
FAQs
How does a streaming VPN work?
Is VPN good for live streaming?
What’s the fastest VPN for streaming?
Is it illegal to use a VPN for streaming?
What is the best VPN for watching sports?
Will streaming with a VPN affect my connection speeds?
What is a streaming VPN?
References
- Your Technology Is Tracking You. Take These Steps For Better Online Privacy (NPR)
- The Top 7 Dangers of Public Wi-Fi for Businesses
(Western Governors University)