Whether you're on the go trying to enjoy your favorite Netflix series or facing internet service provider (ISP) throttling, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can be your streaming savior. However, not all VPNs are created equal, especially when it comes to speed and unblocking capabilities. Our thorough testing has pinpointed the top VPNs that excel at streaming movies, TV shows, and even live sports events that are otherwise blacked out in your region.
TL;DR – These Are the Best VPNs for Streaming:
Our Top Pick### ExpressVPN
0See it at ExpressVPN### NordVPN
0See it at NordVPN### CyberGhost
0See it at CyberGhost### Surfshark
0See it at Surfshark### Proton VPN
0See it at Proton VPN### IPVanish
0See it at IPVanish### PrivateVPN
0See it at PrivateVPN
A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, providing an extra layer of security while hiding your IP address. This enables you to browse and stream anonymously and to spoof your location. For instance, if you're overseas and want to access Hulu, simply connect to a server in the US to obtain a US IP address. The beauty of it is that you can use a VPN on virtually any device, from your iPhone to your PC. Let's delve into the best VPNs for streaming listed below.
ExpressVPN
Best VPN for Streaming
Our Top Pick### ExpressVPN
0Experience speedy streaming with unlimited bandwidth and a 30-day money-back guarantee. See it at ExpressVPN
Product Specifications
- Pricing: Starting from $4.99 per month
- Simultaneous connections: 8
- Servers: 3,000+
- Countries: 105
- Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV
PROS
- Great speeds for streaming
- Smart DNS feature
CONS
- More expensive
ExpressVPN remains a go-to choice for streaming enthusiasts. While many VPNs now use the fast WireGuard protocol, ExpressVPN's proprietary Lightway protocol boasts even fewer lines of code, translating to superior performance. Our latest speed tests showed an average of 118 Mbps when connected to ExpressVPN's servers, outpacing Surfshark (104 Mbps) and IPVanish (84 Mbps). With 3,000+ servers spanning 105 countries, we successfully accessed multiple Netflix libraries, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video. The MediaStreamer (Smart DNS) feature allows streaming on devices that don't support VPN apps, such as smart TVs and consoles. ExpressVPN is a no-logs VPN with 256-bit AES encryption, allowing up to 8 simultaneous connections and offering excellent 24-hour support.
For an in-depth look at why ExpressVPN is our top pick for streaming, check out our detailed review.
NordVPN
Best VPN for Netflix
### NordVPN
0Benefit from a robust combination of speed, unblocking, and security with NordVPN. See it at NordVPN
Product Specifications
- Pricing: Starting from $3.39 per month
- Simultaneous connections: 10
- Servers: 6,000+
- Countries: 111
- Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV
PROS
- Vast server network
- Audited no-logs policy
CONS
- Suffered a data breach in 2018
NordVPN's recent expansion to 6,000+ servers in 111 countries, including 2,000 US servers, makes it an excellent choice for accessing Netflix, HBO Max, Hulu, and YouTube TV. The NordLynx protocol, built on WireGuard, ensures fast streaming speeds, and unlimited bandwidth means you can stream as much as you want. The Smart DNS feature (SmartPlay) enhances compatibility with various streaming platforms. You can connect up to 10 devices at once and opt for a dedicated IP for an additional $3.69 per month. Based in Panama, NordVPN benefits from no mandatory data retention laws and its no-logs policy was audited by Deloitte in December 2023.
CyberGhost
Best VPN for Streaming While Traveling
### CyberGhost
0Ideal for travelers, with a vast server network and gaming-optimized servers in certain cities. See it at CyberGhost
Product Specifications
- Pricing: Starting from $2.19 per month
- Simultaneous connections: 7
- Servers: 11,000+
- Countries: 100
- Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV
PROS
- 2,000+ US servers
- Dedicated IP option
CONS
- Fewer simultaneous connections
CyberGhost's dedicated streaming servers, optimized for platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+, set it apart. Its network spans over 11,000 servers across 100 countries, with 2,000+ in the US, 500+ in Canada, and 1,100+ in the UK. The WireGuard protocol and unlimited bandwidth ensure smooth streaming, while a dedicated IP costs just $2.50 per month. CyberGhost uses high-end encryption, prevents DNS leaks, and doesn't keep identifying logs, ensuring your streaming activities remain private.
Surfshark
Best VPN for Streaming on Multiple Devices
### Surfshark
0An affordable VPN that provides strong unblocking capabilities and unlimited device connections. See it at Surfshark
Product Specifications
- Pricing: Starting from $2.19 per month
- Simultaneous connections: Unlimited
- Servers: 3,000+
- Countries: 100
- Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Amazon Fire TV
PROS
- Particularly strong unblocking
- Unlimited devices
CONS
- Frequent CAPTCHAs
Surfshark offers good speeds and a generous server network, making it great value, especially for its one and two-year subscriptions. It unblocks more Netflix libraries than most VPNs and also works with BBC iPlayer, Peacock, and Prime Video. With no limit on simultaneous connections, you can stream on all your devices using 3,000+ servers across 100 countries, including 25 US cities. Surfshark's 256-bit AES encryption and kill switch in all apps ensure your data remains secure.
Proton VPN
Best VPN for Privacy
### Proton VPN
0Experience fast speeds and enhanced privacy with Proton VPN's growing server network. See it at Proton VPN
Product Specifications
- Pricing: Starting from $0 per month
- Simultaneous connections: 10
- Servers: 4,900+
- Countries: 85
- Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux
PROS
- Impressive speed
- Genuine no-logs policy
CONS
- Requires an email address for signup
Proton VPN has significantly expanded its server network to over 4,000 servers in 90 countries, making it ideal for bypassing geographic restrictions. It supports streaming on platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+ with the WireGuard protocol and VPN Accelerator feature, ensuring some of the fastest speeds available. You can connect up to 10 devices at once, and Proton VPN offers additional privacy features like an ad blocker and Secure Core servers (though not suitable for streaming). Its transparent no-logs policy has been independently audited.
IPVanish
Best Budget VPN for Streaming
### IPVanish
0Enjoy high speeds and unlimited bandwidth at a budget-friendly price. See it at IPVanish
Product Specifications
- Pricing: Starting from $2.19 per month
- Simultaneous connections: Unlimited
- Servers: 2,400+
- Countries: 50
- Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV
PROS
- Search server ping and load
- Highly affordable
CONS
- Not the best customer support
IPVanish has improved its offerings, expanding to 2,400+ servers, with 1,400 in the US, and adopting WireGuard. This makes it more suitable for streaming, allowing access to Netflix US, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu. With a global average speed of 84 Mbps, it's a solid choice for those on a budget. IPVanish's apps make it easy to find suitable streaming servers by displaying each server's ping and load. It provides robust security with 256-bit AES encryption, DNS leak protection, a kill switch, and threat protection, all while maintaining a no-logs policy.
PrivateVPN
Best Beginner VPN for Streaming
### PrivateVPN
0Ideal for beginners, with respectable speeds and excellent customer support. See it at PrivateVPN
Product Specifications
- Pricing: Starting from $2.00 per month
- Simultaneous connections: 10
- Servers: 200+
- Countries: 63
- Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire TV
PROS
- Works with many streaming services
- Unrivaled customer support
CONS
- Very few servers
Although PrivateVPN has a smaller network of around 200 servers across 60+ countries, it excels at bypassing streaming restrictions for Netflix, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, and ITVX. Its speeds are sufficient for high-resolution streaming, and its user-friendly apps and top-notch customer support make it perfect for beginners. PrivateVPN offers free remote help and installation, a genuine no-logs policy, and 256-bit AES encryption.
How to Pick the Best VPN for Streaming
Choosing the right VPN for streaming can be challenging due to the ongoing battle between VPNs and streaming services. The best VPNs consistently unblock streaming platforms and provide stable connections. Here are the key factors we considered:
- Servers worldwide (including US and UK)
- Fast and consistent connections
- Unblocks popular streaming services
- High-end encryption to keep data secure
- No collecting or storing of identifying logs
- Live chat and email support around the clock
How to Use the Best VPN for Streaming
Once you've chosen your streaming VPN, setting up is straightforward:
- Sign up with your preferred VPN provider.
- Download the app compatible with your device.
- Install the VPN app and log in.
- Connect to a server in the country of the streaming platform you want to access (e.g., a US server for Netflix US).
- Clear your cookies if the streaming site remembers your previous IP address.
Best VPNs for Streaming: FAQs
Will a VPN slow my streaming speed?
A VPN typically slows your connection due to encryption and routing through a VPN server. However, the best VPNs use fast protocols like WireGuard, offer unlimited bandwidth, and maintain low-load servers to ensure smooth, buffer-free streaming. In some cases, a VPN might even improve your streaming speeds if your ISP is throttling your bandwidth by hiding your traffic.
Why isn’t my VPN working with Netflix?
If your VPN isn't working with Netflix, try clearing your browser's cookies to help Netflix recognize your new VPN IP address. Not all VPN IP addresses work with Netflix, so you might need to try multiple servers. Between attempts, clear your cookies, and consult your VPN's support for guidance on servers that work best.
Can I use a free VPN for streaming?
Free VPNs often come with data caps, bandwidth throttling, and fewer servers, making them less ideal for streaming. They may also lack strong encryption and could keep logs of your activity. With the money-back guarantees offered by many streaming VPNs, you can try them risk-free.