When you buy through affiliate links in our content, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn The best YouTube TV VPN will enable you to access YouTube TV anywhere in the world, as well as content that’s only available in specific US states. Top VPNs will also enable you to secure and anonymize your connection, get around geo-blocks and bandwidth throttling, and access YouTube content that’s unavailable in your region.
In this guide, I’ll help you choose the best VPN for YouTube TV, based on my testing of 20 top providers, so you can make an informed decision and see how they compare to the best VPNs.
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The Best VPNs for YouTube TV Tested By Our Experts
The Top 5 VPNs for YouTube TV Ranked
- NordVPN – Best YouTube TV VPN overall
- Surfshark – Best cheap VPN for YouTube TV
- ExpressVPN – Most Secure YouTube TV VPN
- CyberGhost VPN – Best YouTube VPN for Beginners
- PureVPN – Best VPN for watching YouTube TV via browsers
What is YouTube TV? What’s the Difference Between YouTube and YouTube TV?
Another big difference is that YouTube TV is only available in the United States, so if you want to enjoy its content while abroad, you’ll need a reliable VPN like NordVPN to unblock it.
Can You Watch NFL Games on YouTube TV?
NFL games are available on YouTube TV via the NFL Sunday Ticket package. This gives you access to all local, national, and out-of-market Sunday games and lets you watch up to four live games on one screen. There’s also the NFL RedZone bundle, which offers live coverage of the best the NFL has to offer from across the country.
If you already have a YouTube TV Base account, NFL Sunday Ticket will cost you $89/year, broken into four payments of $22.25. There’s also an offer to get YouTube TV for $49.99/month for the first two months, which then reverts to $72.99/month.
How to Use a VPN to Watch NFL Games on YouTube TV from Outside the US
If you’re an NFL fan outside the US, you’ll need a VPN to access YouTube TV and the NFL Sunday Ticket bundle. Here’s how to go about it:
- Pick a reliable VPN with servers in the US. I recommend NordVPN due to its solid unblocking capabilities, fast US servers, and obfuscation and SmartPlay features, which will ensure you can connect.
- If you need an account, go to NordVPN’s site, sign up, and download the software.
- Connect to a US server and head over to YouTube TV’s official website at tv.youtube.com.
- Log into your account or subscribe. Once logged in, click on your profile icon in the top right and go to Settings.
- Locate the NFL Sunday Ticket and click Add.
- Finally, hit the Purchase button, and you’re good to go.
The Best YouTube TV VPNs Reviewed
Following our comprehensive assessment methodology, I split my review process between in-depth, hands-on testing and research and evaluation.
I’ve performed thorough product tests on 20 of the top solutions on the market to create a shortlist of the five best options and have focused on factors such as usability, functionality, security, and performance.
1. NordVPN – Best YouTube TV VPN Overall
| Starting Price | $2.99/month |
|---|---|
| Key Features | SmartPlay, Obfuscation, NordLynx Protocol |
| Free Version / Trial | 7-day Android trial, 30-day money-back guarantee |
| Server Count and Locations | 6,800+ servers in 111+ countries, including 1,970+ US servers in 16 locations |
| Max Devices and Device Compatibility | 10; Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Smart TVs, Routers |
Why We Picked It
NordVPN is arguably the most popular VPN around, and for good reason. It can easily bypass YouTube TV’s VPN-blocking resources thanks to its IP masking abilities and offers both obfuscated servers and a DNS switcher. I rate it as the best VPN for YouTube TV available today.
Features
- SmartPlay – NordVPN’s SmartPlay feature is specifically designed to unblock geo-restricted content worldwide. It works by hiding your real IP address and routing your DNS requests through a server in a region where the streaming platform you want to use is available. What I like most about the feature is that it’s enabled by default, so there’s no need for manual setup.
- Obfuscation – YouTube TV is notorious for attempting to block VPN traffic, but NordVPN’s obfuscated servers provide a smart solution. These servers hide the fact you’re using a VPN, masking your activities as regular HTTPS browsing traffic. As a result, you’ll enjoy easy access to YouTube TV and just about any other streaming service you can think of.
- Privacy and Security – NordVPN uses military-grade AES-256 encryption to secure your traffic. It also operates under a strict no-logs policy, so you can rest assured the provider never has access to your personal data or online history. One of the main reasons NordVPN is my top pick for YouTube TV, though, is its NordLynx protocol. It’s a fast and secure version of WireGuard that ensures top-notch performance and high-quality, buffer-free streaming.
Performance
NordVPN’s performance was consistently strong during my testing. It retained ~930Mbps of my 1Gbps baseline connection speed, regardless of server type or distance.
Streaming NFL games on YouTube TV was buffer-free for me, even when viewing in 8K UHD, and with nearly 2,000 US servers, you shouldn’t experience any crowding. With its intuitive apps, NordVPN also tops our list of the best mobile VPN apps.
Pricing
NordVPN’s affordable plans start at $2.99/month for a two-year subscription. You get robust encryption, access to the provider’s 6,800+ servers, and an ad and malicious domain blocker.
NordVPN supports ten devices with one account. You can test the service risk-free for 7 days on Android devices, and there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee after purchase.
Who It’s Best For
NordVPN is the best YouTube TV VPN for users who need an all-in-one service for high-quality streaming and reliable online privacy and security. It’s also among the fastest VPNs on the market, delivering exceptional video quality.
Pros
- Provides access to most streaming services
- Large number of US servers
- Intuitive interface
- SmartPlay and Obfuscation features
- Smart DNS feature
Cons
- No port forwarding feature
2. Surfshark – Best Cheap VPN for YouTube TV
| Starting Price | $1.99/month |
|---|---|
| Key Features | Camouflage Mode, Bypasser, Antivirus Protection |
| Free Version / Trial | 7-day Android, iOS, and Mac trial, 30-day money-back guarantee |
| Server Count and Locations | 3,200+ servers in 100 countries, including 600 US servers in 22 locations |
| Max Devices and Device Compatibility | Unlimited; Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, Smart TVs |
Why We Picked It
Surfshark VPN is a popular VPN provider that can easily unblock YouTube TV. With a low cost of $1.99/month for unlimited connections, it’s one of the cheapest options available and great value for money.
Features
- Camouflage Mode – Surfshark offers obfuscation with its Camouflage Mode. This ensures streaming platforms will never know your real location. The feature hides the fact that you’re using a VPN, so platforms like YouTube TV let you in, no questions asked.
- Bypasser – This is Surfshark’s split tunneling feature, which comes in handy when you want to optimize your connection for specific purposes. For example, you can stream local content without VPN encryption while encrypting YouTube TV traffic via the VPN tunnel. I found the feature to be very intuitive – you simply add the URLs for websites that you don’t need VPN protection for.
- Security Features – Surfshark secures your connection with the AES-256-GCM encryption cipher and employs a strict no-logs policy to ensure your personal data and viewing habits remain private. In addition, there’s a reliable ad blocker, and if you opt for Surfshark’s second-tier plan, you benefit from one of the best antivirus software solutions on the market.
Performance
Surfshark currently holds the top spot as the fastest VPN on the market, and it showed during my tests. I kept a whopping 950Mbps of my 1Gbps baseline, so webpages loaded instantly for me and streaming 8K UHD content on YouTube TV was as smooth as ever.
Pricing
Surfshark is a great, budget-friendly VPN for YouTube TV. Plans start at $1.99/month for a two-year subscription, which comes with four extra months. You get the VPN’s core features and support for unlimited devices.
That said, I recommend upgrading to the Surfshark One plan, costing $2.49/month, which adds first-class anti-malware protection and real-time data-breach alerts and qualifies the provider as one of the best VPNs with an antivirus.
Whichever plan you choose, there’s a free 7-day trial for Mac, Android, and iOS, and there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Who It’s Best For
As the cheapest YouTube TV VPN on this list, Surfshark is a perfect option for users on a budget. Its support for unlimited connections also makes it a great option for families and friends.
Pros
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Camouflage Mode and Bypasser features
- Antivirus included
- Audited no-logs policy
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- No Windows trial
3. ExpressVPN – Most Secure YouTube TV VPN
| Starting Price | $4.99/month |
|---|---|
| Key Features | MediaStreamer, Obfuscated Servers, Lightway Protocol |
| Free Version / Trial | 7-day mobile trial, 30-day money-back guarantee |
| Server Count and Locations | 3,000+ servers in 105+ countries, including 18 US server locations |
| Max Devices and Device Compatibility | 8; Windows, iOS, Android, Mac, Linux, Routers, Smart TVs |
Why We Picked It
ExpressVPN has an extensive worldwide server network with lots of US servers, which is ideal for YouTube TV.
It’s also among the most secure VPNs for YouTube, with an audited no-logs policy – guaranteeing that it doesn’t store user information – and a RAM-only server network, which ensures no data can ever be retained. It even includes a password manager and an ad and tracker blocker.
Features
- MediaStreamer – ExpressVPN offers Smart DNS functionality via its MediaStreamer feature. This routes your traffic through a server in a selected country, so you can access US servers for easy access to YouTube TV, as well as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+. MediaStreamer also works on devices that don’t natively support VPNs, like older smart TVs and gaming consoles, which also makes ExpressVPN one of the best Roku VPNs.
- Obfuscated Servers – Like NordVPN and Surfshark, ExpressVPN offers obfuscation so you can easily bypass VPN blocks. What I like most, though, is that all of ExpressVPN’s servers are obfuscated by default, so there’s no need to tweak the settings or pick specific server locations.
- Security – ExpressVPN is the most secure YouTube VPN and employs robust AES-256 encryption to secure your traffic. You also benefit from the reliable Lightway protocol and an effective kill switch. In my DNS and IP leak tests, ExpressVPN performed flawlessly and never exposed any of my data.
Performance
In terms of performance, ExpressVPN had mixed results, with significant differences in speed depending on server location. While nearby servers maintained approximately 700Mbps of my original 1Gbps connection speed, distant servers delivered an average of 560Mbps.
Nevertheless, streaming content on channels like CBS and NBC via YouTube TV was generally smooth, with only minor buffering at launch.
Pricing
ExpressVPN is slightly more expensive than the competition, with its two-year plan costing $4.99/month. You get a lot in return, though, with features like a password manager, ad blocker, data theft alerts, and tools to remove your personal info from data broker repositories.
ExpressVPN supports up to eight device connections. If you want a test drive, there’s a seven-day free trial on Android and iOS and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Who It’s Best For
With a verified no-logs policy, robust encryption, and built-in obfuscation, ExpressVPN is a great pick for privacy and security-conscious users.
Pros
- Unblocks a variety of streaming services
- RAM-only servers for better privacy
- Independently audited
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- More expensive than most
- No free trial
4. CyberGhost VPN – Best YouTube VPN for Beginners
| Starting Price | $2.03/month |
|---|---|
| Key Features | Streaming-Optimized Servers, Kill Switch, Large Server Network |
| Free Version / Trial | Windows, Mac, iOS, Android trials, 45-day money-back guarantee |
| Server Count and Locations | 11,700+ servers in 100+ countries, including 11 US server locations |
| Max Devices and Device Compatibility | 7; Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Smart TVs, Linux, Gaming Consoles |
Why We Picked It
CyberGhost VPN has just about the largest server fleet of any VPN provider I’ve seen with an impressive number of server locations. At the same time, it delivers a stable connection, and it’s intuitive and among the easiest YouTube VPNs to get started with.
Features
- Streaming-Optimized Servers – CyberGhost offers thousands of servers optimized to unblock specific streaming platforms, including YouTube TV. Its network has almost three times as many servers as ExpressVPN, with over 11,700 servers worldwide and more than 2,000 in the US alone. In my tests, I could always find uncrowded servers for fast and buffer-free streaming for YouTube TV.
- Beginner-Friendly Apps – If you’re new to VPNs, CyberGhost is a great option, with highly intuitive apps for all major platforms and devices. It features a sleek design with straightforward menus for Countries, Server Type, and Settings. Once connected, you’ll see detailed info about your chosen server, including its IP address, connection speed, and session length. I particularly liked the handy Favorites bar, which lets you save servers you use frequently.
- Extra Security Features – CyberGhost uses the AES-256 cipher to encrypt your traffic and prevent data leaks, and there’s a reliable kill switch to sever your internet access if the VPN connection drops. You also get some of the best VPN protocols in the industry, including OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2. In addition, CyberGhost operates out of Romania, which is outside the reach of the 14 Eyes surveillance group.
Performance
CyberGhost performed well in my performance tests, though it lagged behind faster services like NordVPN and Surfshark. The VPN retained ~730Mbps from my 1Gbps base speed. This may sound like a big drop, but I saw no noticeable lag or quality drops while watching Comedy Central shows on YouTube TV.
Pricing
You can grab CyberGhost VPN for $2.03/month with a two-year subscription and benefit from robust encryption, a verified no-logs policy, and the provider’s 11,700-strong server fleet.
One small drawback is that CyberGhost supports a maximum of seven connections. On the upside, you get a lengthy 45-day money-back guarantee and free trials for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.
Who It’s Best For
I recommend CyberGhost for first-time VPN users thanks to its beginner-friendly and highly customizable apps for all devices. The provider also offers streaming-optimized servers, making it a great pick for YouTube TV.
Pros
- Streaming-optimized servers
- Largest number of servers and US servers
- Generous 45-day money-back guarantee
- Independently audited no-logs policy
- Affordable
Cons
- VPN apps could be improved
- Ad-blocker has limitations
5. PureVPN – Best VPN for Watching YouTube TV via Browsers
| Starting Price | $1.99/month |
|---|---|
| Key Features | Browser Extension, 20Gbps Servers, Always-On Audit |
| Free Version / Trial | 7-day trial for $0.99, 31-day money-back guarantee |
| Server Count and Locations | 6,000+ servers in 65+ countries, including 13 US server locations |
| Max Devices and Device Compatibility | 10; Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Routers, Streaming Devices |
Why We Picked It
PureVPN has a substantial server fleet that enables you to seamlessly bypass geo-blocks. In addition, it offers one of the best VPN browser extensions on the market for easy access to YouTube TV on the web.
Features
- Browser Extension – PureVPN offers an intuitive browser extension for Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and Brave. What made it stand out in my tests, though, was the Popular Websites feature. It offers servers optimized to unblock specific sites and streaming services, like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and YouTube TV.
- 20Gbps Servers – The provider’s server fleet spans 65+ countries with over 6,000 servers worldwide. Many of these are upgraded for 20Gbps internet, with high-speed options for numerous US cities. They provide blazing-fast speeds for smooth streaming and guarantee access to US-based streaming platforms like YouTube TV.
- Privacy and Security – Along with its AES-256 encryption and reliable protocols, including WireGuard and OpenVPN, PureVPN impressed me with its commitment to privacy. The provider operates under an Always-On Audit model. This means that its privacy policy and security features are always open to independent auditing without prior notice.
Performance
PureVPN’s 20Gbps servers proved noticeably faster than its regular hardware during my tests. They retained 820Mbps of my 1Gbps baseline, delivering smooth streaming of NFL and NBA games on YouTube TV. The provider’s regular servers fared less well, though, only managing to deliver about 640Mbps.
Pricing
PureVPN costs just $1.99/month if you subscribe for five years. Its entry-level plan offers the VPN’s basic privacy and security features and includes the browser extension. If you upgrade to its second-tier plan, you also get a reliable password manager and a file encryption tool for $2.99/month.
PureVPN offers a 7-day trial for $0.99. On the bright side, though, you can test the service risk-free with its 31-day money-back guarantee.
Who It’s Best For
PureVPN offers one of the best browser extensions for YouTube TV. Combined with its 20Gbps servers and large server network, it’s the best option for users who frequently access YouTube TV’s web-based version.
Pros
- Large server network
- Affordable long-term contracts
- Parental controls
- Always-on audit policy
Cons
- Expensive add-ons
Comparing the Best VPNs for YouTube
Here are the key details for my top five best VPNs for YouTube TV so you can make an easy comparison about the right product for your needs.
| Best YouTube TV VPN Providers | Best For | Starting Price | Free Version / Trial | Connections | Server Count | Device Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | Best Overall | $2.99/month | 7-day Android trial | 10 | 6,800+ in 111+ countries, including 16 US server locations | Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Smart TVs, Routers |
| Surfshark | Price & Unlimited Connections | $1.99/month | 7-day Android, iOS, and Mac trial | Unlimited | 3,200+ in 100 countries, including 22 US server locations | Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, Smart TVs, Routers |
| ExpressVPN | Security | $4.99/month | 7-day mobile trial | 8 | 3,000+ in 105+ countries, including 18 US server locations | Windows, iOS, Android, Mac, Linux, Routers, Smart TVs, Routers |
| CyberGhost VPN | Beginners | $2.03/month | Windows, Mac, iOS, Android trials | 7 | 11,700+ in 100+ countries, including 11 US server locations | Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Smart TVs, Linux, Gaming Consoles |
| PureVPN | Browser Use | $1.99/month | 7-day trial for $0.99 | 10 | 6,000+ in 65+ countries, including 13 US server locations | Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Routers, Streaming Devices |
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.
How to Choose the Best VPN for YouTube TV
When choosing the best VPN for unblocking YouTube TV, it’s important to take into consideration the following details.
If you’re wondering does YouTube TV work in Europe, or how to watch YouTube TV while traveling, then a VPN may well be the answer. It’s important to find a VPN provider, like the ones I’ve reviewed, that’s capable of bypassing geo-blocks to unlock local channels when abroad.
If you want to access unofficial streaming channels, check out our guide on “Is 123Movies Safe?”
While VPNs are a great way to ensure your privacy, this often comes at a cost. Some services may slow down your internet connection to the point where 4K streaming doesn’t work. Find a VPN that can ensure fast and consistent speeds.
Having a large number of servers has many benefits, including being able to find the best server for your needs and having options close to your real location. If you want to stream YouTube TV, you’ll need a VPN provider that ideally has a number of US server locations.
VPNs work on most devices, but the performance can vary. For streaming, it’s better to find one that’s compatible with computers and even smart TVs. Some VPNs allow you to configure your router so it covers every device that connects to it.
See our guide to the best VPNs for Firestick for details on smart TV and hardware compatibility.
If you’re using a VPN for your family or for a business, finding a plan that can cover every individual may be important. Some providers, like Surfshark, allow for an unlimited number of connections, which is great for these purposes or if you have numerous devices.
How to Watch YouTube TV with a VPN
Now that I’ve covered what to look for in a VPN, let’s take a look at how to use it. In this guide, I’ll be using NordVPN, but the process is similar with most providers.
Download NordVPN
Visit NordVPN’s website and pick a subscription that suits your needs. Once you’ve set up your subscription, download the VPN app for your device.
Install the VPN App
Run NordVPN’s setup file and follow the on-screen instructions to install the application.
Connect to a US Server
Open the NordVPN app and log in to your account. Then, use the search function or the interactive map to connect to a server. If you want to stream YouTube TV, pick a US server.
Enjoy Unrestricted YouTube TV Streaming
You’re now good to go and can enjoy high-speed streaming on your device with YouTube TV.
Conclusion – What is the Best YouTube VPN?
If you want privacy, smooth streaming, and access to geo-blocked content on YouTube TV, a reliable VPN is essential. The top options will also prevent ISP throttling, protect your privacy, and keep your connection secure.
That’s why I recommend NordVPN as the best YouTube TV VPN. It offers great performance for buffer-free streaming, industry-leading security features, and an extensive global server network. Coupled with features like web protection and a password manager, it’s one of the most versatile packages on the market.
FAQs
What’s the best VPN for YouTube TV?
Is there a good free VPN for YouTube TV?
Is it legal to use a VPN for YouTube TV? And does it work?
Can YouTube TV detect VPNs?
How much do YouTube TV VPNs cost?
References
- Five Eyes Intelligence Oversight and Review Council (FIORC) (Office of the Director of National Intelligence)
- The Battle Against Geo-Blocking: The Consumer
Strikes Back (Richmond Journal of Global Law & Business) - NordVPN verifies its no-logs claim for the fourth time (NordVPN)
- Surfshark server infrastructure undergoes an independent audit (Surfshark)
- KPMG LLP completes new assessment of ExpressVPN’s Privacy Policy claims (ExpressVPN)
- CyberGhost VPN Announces Completion of Independent Audit Conducted by Deloitte (CyberGhost)
- PureVPN Excels Well known audit firm Always-On Audit Setting an Industry Benchmark (PureVPN)
