6 Best VPNs for Streaming in 2024

Even the most popular streaming services are either entirely or partially limited to specific countries. For example, Hulu is available only in the US and Japan, while Paramount+ is available in the US, Canada, and a handful of European countries. Then, we have platforms like Netflix, which are available worldwide, but where each country has its own (oftentimes limited) library.

Fortunately, there is a solution: the trick is to use one of the top VPNs to bypass geo-blocks. By using a VPN, you’ll get an IP from a country of your choice. So, if you want to unblock Hulu, just connect to a VPN server from the US. This will trick the streamer into believing you’re located in that country.

In this article, we’ll share the best VPNs for streaming and show you how to use them. You’ll learn how to choose the right VPN and which countries are the best for streaming movies and TV shows. We’ll also show you the best streamers, talk about the speeds you need for streaming over a VPN, how to fix your VPN if it’s not working, and we'll go over some FAQs.

How to Set Up and Use a VPN for Streaming

First, you need to subscribe to a suitable VPN, install its app, and then pick and connect to a server. Let’s take a more in-depth look at this procedure:

1. Sign up for a VPN that works for streaming (we recommend NordVPN).
2. Download and install the VPN on your preferred streaming device.
3. Launch the VPN app and log in to your account. 
4. Connect to a VPN server where your desired content is available to stream.
5. That’s it! Now, you can enjoy a seamless streaming experience.

Before you can stream with a VPN, it's crucial to pick a suitable location. For example, pick a location in the United States if you wish to access Hulu, (HBO) Max, or Paramount+. Netflix's US library is filled with interesting titles as well. Or, go to a location in the UK to watch BBC iPlayer, free of charge.

The Best VPNs for Streaming in 2024

You'll want a VPN that can unblock all the major streaming services. Therefore, it’s crucial to pick a VPN with an extensive server network in many different countries with popular streaming platforms—especially the US, as it supports a large majority of them. 

What’s more, fast speeds and reliable performance are a must if you want to avoid connection interruptions. A reliable VPN should come with obfuscated servers that mask you’re using a VPN, as well as necessary security features like a kill switch, a strict no-logs policy, military-grade encryption, and multiple VPN protocols. 

Your chosen VPN must also allow a significant number of simultaneous connections and work on different devices, including smartphones, tablets, computers, smart TVs, and routers. It should also bring an affordable price and plenty of value overall. Last but not least, you should go for a VPN that has a reliable money-back guarantee and 24/7 customer support for a supportive streaming experience.

Following these criteria, and after spending plenty of hands-on time with 53 providers in total, we think these are the 6 best VPNs for streaming:

1. NordVPN – Our #1-Rated Best VPN for Streaming TV and Movies in 2024

NordVPN features a vast server fleet of 6,400+ servers in 111 countries—and 1,970 of them are in the US. This makes it one of the best VPNs for unblocking various streaming platforms anywhere in the world. 

In terms of speed, NordVPN provides fast and consistent connections. In fact, based on our tests, it's among the fastest VPN providers right now. As a result, you’ll have an interruption-free streaming experience with Netflix, Prime Video, Max, Disney+, and more.

NordVPN has obfuscated servers that will help you hide the fact that you use a VPN, as well as AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption, a kill switch that activates when your connection fails, strong VPN protocols (NordLynx, IKEv2/IPsec, and OpenVPN), and a verified no-logs policy. This is a Panama-based VPN, so no data logging is involved whatsoever.

This provider allows 10 simultaneous connections and has apps for your PC, laptop, phone, Fire TV Stick, and more. It also has a SmartDNS feature, so you can stream on devices that don’t natively support VPNs, such as smart TVs—making NordVPN an excellent overall option. 

You can become a subscriber for $3.39/month if you pick NordVPN's 2-year plan. Also, this VPN has a 30-day money-back guarantee in case you’re not satisfied with its services. Finally, another great benefit is its customer support, which is available 24/7. 

Want more information? Here's our full NordVPN review.

2. Surfshark – Best Streaming VPN with Enhanced Digital Security

Surfshark earned its place on our list because it's an amazing VPN for TV streaming. It has 3,200+ servers in 100 countries, and 600+ of them are located in the US. Therefore, this VPN will enable you to unblock all your favorite streaming services from anywhere.

Moreover, Surfshark is one of the fastest VPNs on our list and provides reliable performance even across long distances. This means that you can freely stream many different Netflix libraries, Disney +, Hulu, Max, and Amazon Prime Video, along with many other services.

This Netherlands-based VPN ensures top-notch security as it has obfuscated servers that hide your VPN utilization, a kill switch feature, AES-256/ChaCha20 encryption, and strong VPN protocols (WireGuard, IKEv2/IPsec, and OpenVPN). Even better, Surfshark has a third-party-audited no-logs policy.

The best part of Surfshark in terms of streaming is that it allows unlimited simultaneous connections on your phone, laptop, PC, Fire TV Sticks, routers, and more. In addition, Surfshark is an excellent option for streaming movies, as it has a SmartDNS feature that enables you to use it even on devices like TVs, which don’t have native VPN support.

This VPN also has a great price - only $2.19/month for its 2-year plan. Lastly, Surfshark has 24/7 customer support along with a 30-day money-back guarantee that ensures a refund if you decide it’s not the right fit.

Discover more about this provider by reading our Surfshark review.

3. ExpressVPN – Impressively Fast VPN for Streaming on Any Device

ExpressVPN is another capable option thanks to its extensive network of thousands of servers in 105 countries, including 15+ US locations. In addition, this is the best VPN for international streaming because it unblocks any video streaming platform worldwide. 

Furthermore, ExpressVPN has lightning-fast speeds and stable performance, delivering smooth Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Max, and Prime Video streaming. 

Security is an essential criterion, and you have nothing to worry about with ExpressVPN. It comes with a ton of obfuscated servers that will hide your VPN usage. Plus, you’ll get strong AES-256 and WolfSSL encryption, a kill switch feature, various VPN protocols (OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, and Lightway), and a strict, independently audited no-logs policy.

What’s more, ExpressVPN allows 8 simultaneous connections and native apps for different devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and computers. It also offers a SmartDNS feature so you can even stream on devices that don’t have native app support, such as smart TVs and digital media players like Roku or Fire TV Stick. 

Everything listed above is available at $6.67/month, which is how much ExpressVPN's annual plan costs. This VPN also has knowledgeable 24/7 customer support that can help you overcome any issue. Lastly, you can have a risk-free experience due to its 30-day money-back guarantee.

Our ExpressVPN review reveals more crucial information about this provider.

4. CyberGhost VPN – User-Friendly VPN with Specialized Streaming Servers

CyberGhost VPN is one of our top choices because it has a huge server network of thousands of servers in 100 countries, 2,100+ of which are in the US. As a result, this VPN is capable of unblocking streaming services globally. 

Regarding speed, CyberGhost offers decent connection rates, but it’s far from being the fastest option. However, you’ll still get stable performance that supports streaming of Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, Max, and Disney+, to name a few. Better yet, it offers streaming-optimized servers for the best possible experience watching your favorite movies and TV shows.

While CyberGhost lacks obfuscated servers, it does have NoSpy servers that only its team can access and control. Moreover, there are other strong security features, such as AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption, VPN protocols (WireGuard, IKEv2/IPsec, and OpenVPN), an automatic kill switch, and a no-logs policy that is frequently audited.

This Romania-based comes with 7 simultaneous connections, and it offers easy-to-use apps for phones, tablets, computers, streaming devices, and even routers. There's practically no device or platform without CyberGhost's native software.

At the moment, CyberGhost comes priced at only $2.19/month (2-year subscription). The VPN offers a 45-day money-back guarantee (on longer-term plans) and a 14-day money-back guarantee (on its monthly plan). Additionally, its 24/7 customer support is a great benefit as it’s available round-the-clock for any issue you may encounter.

Before you make up your mind, check our CyberGhost VPN review.

5. Private Internet Access – Advanced VPN for International Streaming

Private Internet Access (PIA) has an extra-large server network, with thousands of servers in 90+ countries, including servers in all 50 US states. Thus, PIA can bypass all geo-restrictions and unblock any streaming platforms worldwide.

Compared to our other VPNs, PIA delivers average speeds, but it's still reliable, with stable streaming connections for Disney+, Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, Max, and more. However, not all its servers unblock foreign Netflix libraries, so if you encounter an issue, simply connect to a different server.

PIA comes with all the necessary security and privacy features, such as AES-128/256 and ChaCha20 encryption, a kill switch, a regularly audited no-logs policy, and robust VPN protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec. You’ll also get an additional layer of security through obfuscation. Keep in mind that PIA’s settings are highly customizable, so you can prioritize speed over security.

This US-based VPN works on any device and allows unlimited simultaneous connections. So, whether you want to stream on a computer, phone, tablet, or streaming device, PIA will support it. In addition, you can use custom DNS to use this VPN on a router or other devices that don’t directly support VPNs. 

Despite its long list of features, PIA still comes at an affordable price - $2.19/month if you pick its 2-year plan. Lastly, PIA has customer support available 24/7 and a 30-day money-back guarantee in case you’re unsatisfied.

Learn what else you can expect by visiting our Private Internet Access review.

6. IPVanish – One-Click Streaming-Friendly VPN for First-Time Users

We had to include IPVanish in this guide because it has 2,400+ servers in 75+ locations, with 1,300+ in the US alone. This means IPVanish can unblock plenty of different streaming platforms from around the world. 

In terms of speed, IPVanish delivers medium-fast speeds, but its performance is still stable and consistent. Therefore, you can easily unblock Max, Hulu, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video. You might run into issues unblocking Netflix, but that can be resolved by switching servers.

If you want to stay safe, IPVanish has the right features for you. It comes with obfuscated servers, AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption, an audited no-logs policy, a kill switch feature, and various secure VPN protocols (WireGuard, IKEv2/IPsec, and OpenVPN). 

IPVanish allows unlimited simultaneous connections and can be installed on phones, laptops, tablets, and even Android Smart TVs and some media streaming devices like Fire TV Stick. Unfortunately, though, it doesn’t provide a SmartDNS feature. 

You can get IPVanish for $2.19/month for its 2-year plan. Last but not least, if things don’t work out, you can easily get a refund thanks to IPVanish’s 30-day money-back guarantee. Their 24/7 customer support will help you with any issues that may arise. 

Take a look a this VPN's behind-the-scenes by checking our IPVanish review.

Comparing the Best VPNs for Streaming

How We Rank the Best VPNs for Streaming?

Picking a VPN suitable for streaming should be done carefully, as every VPN is different in that regard. That's why our team tested more than 50 VPNs hands-on, ensuring they can unblock streaming apps on computers, phones, and tablets, as well as dedicated streaming devices like Apple TV and Fire TV.

We performed tests by connecting to VPN servers worldwide, checking how each VPN works with services like Netflix, Hulu, (HBO) Max, Disney Plus, and Paramount Plus, as well as live TV apps like Sling TV, FuboTV, and more. Of course, we wouldn't want to recommend a slow VPN, so we tested how much each of the tested VPNs made our connection slower.

That said, you can be sure that the recommendations above can unblock any app, as well as that they bring fast speeds. In addition, we focused on privacy and security, ensuring your sensitive information is safe. Lastly, our recommendations come at an affordable price and generous money-back guarantees, and they all offer always-available customer support.

Do You Need a VPN for Streaming?

Yes, you need a VPN to unblock content and services in countries where they are unavailable. For example, if you’re in a region where a particular movie or TV show is blocked, you will encounter a message like the following: “Oh no! This title currently isn’t available to watch in your country.”

With a VPN, you’ll be able to unblock various streaming platforms and access their geo-restricted content. However, there are also other reasons why you might need a VPN:

• Bypass Geo-Blocks – Most streaming platforms are geo-restricted, so their content is only available in certain regions. You can unblock a streaming service with VPNs because they can bypass geo-blocks by giving you a different IP address.
• Get More Movies & TV Shows - Due to broadcasting rights, video streaming services have country-based libraries, like Netflix, for example. You can use a VPN to access servers in different countries, which is how you'll get access to more streamers and more content.
• Bypass Bandwidth Throttling – ISPs frequently engage in throttling. A VPN encrypts your traffic and hides your activities, which prevents your ISP from monitoring your day-to-day habits, which is how you'll regain the full speed of your Web connection.
• Unblock Streaming Platforms While Traveling – A VPN allows you to use all the streaming platforms you usually use at home, even while traveling. Just connect to a VPN server in your home country, and you'll stream as if you were at home.
• Block Ads & Trackers While Streaming - If you're tired of ads that many of today's video streaming services aggressively push, know that a VPN can employ special DNS servers that get rid of online advertisements.
• Connect Safely from Public/Hotel Wi-Fi - If you travel a lot, you know the hassle of trying to connect to public or hotel Wi-Fi. On top of that, those networks are prone to all kinds of manipulation, which is something a VPN can stop.
• Hide Your Browsing History - Your Internet provider knows what you do online, as well as various trackers that follow you on the Web. Since a VPN encrypts your traffic, it makes sure no one can see your browsing history or your online activity.

How to Choose the Best Streaming VPN

Choosing the best option can sometimes be challenging, as there are hundreds of VPNs on the market. That’s why we created some key points that will help you decide which VPN fulfills your needs. Check out the following tips:

• Ability to Unblock Streaming Platforms - Not every VPN can access streaming platforms, as they often utilize anti-VPN blocks. The best one must offer unrestricted access to any streaming platform you plan to use.
• Server Network Size & Distribution - You'll want a VPN with servers in as many countries as possible, as that's how you'll unblock more streaming platforms. Also, if a VPN has a large server network, it's likely to perform better overall.
• Privacy-Friendly Jurisdiction - It's advisable to pick a VPN headquartered outside the 14 Eyes countries. Doing so will help you avoid data logging, as your VPN won't be forced to keep records of your browsing history due to local legislation.
• Fast Speed & Performance - Streaming video requires you to have a relatively fast connection. Knowing that a VPN will slow you down, find a streaming-optimized VPN that comes with minimal throttling.
• Access to Obfuscated Servers - Obfuscation helps you hide that you use a VPN, making it more difficult for streaming platforms to block your access. Also, obfuscation is a must in countries like China and the UAE, where censorship is widespread.
• Privacy & Security - Your VPN should be powered by OpenVPN and WireGuard, offer a no-logs policy (an audited one, preferably), as well as encryption such as AES-256 or ChaCha20.
• Sufficient Number of Simultaneous Connections - Streaming platforms offer a limited number of simultaneous streams, while VPNs offer the same in terms of connections. So, make sure your VPN allows you to stream from multiple devices at once.
• Device Support - Pick a VPN that offers native software across the board. Also, based on whether you stream on a computer, phone, tablet, or media streaming device, make sure you get a polished VPN app for your device.
• Generous Money-Back Policy - Any reputable VPN will offer a money-back policy, allowing you to test-drive its services for a limited period. In most cases, you can count on having 30 days to test-drive a VPN and ask for a refund if you change your mind.
• Pricing and Value - You don't want to overpay for a VPN, and luckily for you, today's VPNs can be quite affordably priced. If you're looking for the lowest VPN cost, invest in a long-term plan. And, of course, ensure that you get a VPN with plenty of value overall.
• 24/7 Customer Support - When something goes wrong, you'll want to have access to responsive customer support. That's why we recommend getting a VPN that offers 24/7 live chat customer support.

What Are the Best TV Streaming Services?

There's a streaming service for just about any type of content these days. With that said, the most popular (and, for many, the best) TV streaming service is Netflix. Here's our list of the best on-demand streaming services available today:

Aside from on-demand streaming services, live TV streaming services also exist. Those allow you to stream dozens of TV channels live while also offering on-demand libraries. So, here are the most popular live TV streaming services:

Best VPN Country for Streaming TV Shows and Movies

The best VPN server location for streaming TV shows and movies depends on a number of factors. First, consider whether streaming over a VPN is legal in the country. It’s also important to check if the country imposes restrictions on VPN usage.

Most importantly, the country in which you choose to connect to a VPN server depends on what content you want to stream and where it's available. 

In the below table, you'll find a list of countries with access to the most extensive streaming libraries: 

Why Do Streaming Services Block VPN Users?

Streaming services block VPN users due to broadcasting and distribution rights to ensure their content is available only in certain countries or regions.

For example, streaming platforms such as Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and Max bid for individual TV shows and movies. That's how they acquire the rights to offer that content in select countries only for a limited period.

Consequently, streaming services are obliged to prevent access to users from other countries, and they even go one step further by trying to block VPNs. As you already know, VPNs are often used to unblock streaming platforms, which is why you truly need the best one if you wish to unblock "hidden" titles.

If you want to dive deeper into this topic, we recommend our guides that explain why Netflix blocks VPN services, how to bypass the Netflix ban, as well as why Hulu blocks VPN users.

How Fast Does Your VPN Need to Be for Streaming?

In general, the lowest requirement to stream any type of content is 1 to 3 Mbps. With that speed, be prepared for some buffering, and you'll also get the lowest possible video resolution.

If you're after streaming in HD, you need a 5- to 8-Mbps connection. And if you want to stream in 4K (available on select media streaming services if you have a subscription that supports 4K streaming), you need a 16- to 25-Mbps Web connection.

For more precise information, check out the following table. As you can see below, we made sure to cover the most popular streaming platforms.

Know that no matter which VPN you pick, it will slow down your Web connection to a certain degree. Here's more info on why a VPN will slow you down, which includes handy tips on getting the most out of your VPN's performance.

Can You Use a Streaming VPN to Watch Sports Online?

Yes, you can use a VPN for streaming sports online. In fact, a reliable VPN will give you something you won't find elsewhere if you're into sports.

We're talking about sports blackouts here. As a consequence of various deals, sports streaming services are forced to introduce blackouts to specific markets, making it impossible for you to watch those games as they happen.

Just like it unlocks new content, a VPN will help you bypass blackout restrictions by making you appear as if you're somewhere else. That means you'll get to watch the following sports without any blackouts:

• MLB (Major League Baseball)
• NFL (National Football League)
• NHL (National Hockey League)
• NBA League Pass

Why Is a Streaming VPN Not Working?

If you're experiencing issues with streaming over a VPN, you can inspect your baseline connection, go for another VPN protocol, or try a different server. Here are some tips to help you out:

• Reboot Your Device / VPN App - The main problem might be your device itself, as streaming activities have the potential to overwhelm it. We recommend restarting it and trying again.
• Test Your Internet Connection - Ensure your connection works properly by opening a browser. If things don't look normal, you can restart your router or contact your Internet provider.
• Remove Your Browser's Cache and Cookies - If you accessed streaming platforms before without a VPN, residual cache and cookies still point to your actual location.
• Switch to Another Server – By connecting to another server within your VPN’s network, you will probably get better performance and solve your streaming issue.
• Use an Obfuscated Server - By using an obfuscated server, you add another layer of privacy to your connection, making it more difficult for video streaming services to identify your VPN.
• Connect Through a Different VPN Protocol – Connect through a stronger VPN protocol like OpenVPN or WireGuard. As a result, you’ll enjoy a smooth and uninterrupted streaming experience.
• Update Your VPN Software – You may encounter streaming issues even if your VPN software is out of date. This is because it may lack new and optimized features or bug patches.
• Turn Off Your Device's Firewall Temporarily - This is often an issue on Windows PCs, whose firewall might be overly aggressive and block VPN connections.
• Disable Your Device's GPS Tracking - On mobile devices, streaming apps typically rely on GPS to track your location. You can prevent that from happening by going to your phone's 'Location Services' in the Settings app and disabling GPS tracking.
• Turn to Your VPN Provider's Support - If you have tried everything else, it's time to visit your VPN's website and contact its customer support.

Is It Recommended to Use a Free VPN for Streaming?

In general, it's not recommended to use free VPNs for streaming. We don't recommend them because they often collect and sell your data, as well as compromise your security and privacy. 

Moreover, free VPNs are slow, have limited bandwidth, and small server networks. Plus, they can expose you to malware threats. Free providers are also unreliable and can lead to a subpar streaming experience full of buffering and disconnections. Also, they don’t have great content-unblocking capabilities.

Premium VPNs are a much better solution for streaming, as most of them offer affordable prices, top-notch security, and seamless streaming. Even better, go with a VPN free trial, giving you access to high-end VPN features for a limited time.

More precisely, we recommend a trial period of NordVPN, which lasts 7 days and can be activated on Android. For other devices and platforms, NordVPN offers a 30-day money-back policy. And if you're set on using a free option, opt for Proton VPN, which comes with unlimited bandwidth.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, we'll say that using a VPN for media streaming can take your digital entertainment to the next level. You won't have to worry about geo-blocks, sports blackouts, or ISP throttling. Plus, a VPN helps you secure your privacy, ensure you're not tracked online, and more. Just make sure to pick a VPN with strong content-unblocking capabilities and fast speeds, like those recommended above.

We'll also remind you that the best option right now is NordVPN, as it easily unblocks any streaming service you might want to watch. With access to 6,400+ servers in 111 countries that offer seamless 4K streaming, it’s not surprising that it's the best VPN for streaming. Also, you get plenty of simultaneous connections and apps for any device, allowing your entire household to stream with no limitations.

That’s all we've prepared for you in this guide. If you have any additional comments or remarks, feel free to share them via the comments section below. Thanks for reading!