Whether you're traveling and eager to enjoy your favorite Netflix shows or facing ISP throttling that hampers your streaming experience, a VPN can be your ultimate solution. However, not all VPNs are created equal—some struggle with slow speeds or fail to unblock content effectively. Our rigorous testing for speed and unblocking capabilities has helped us pinpoint the best VPN options for streaming movies, TV shows, and even accessing blacked-out live sports events.
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, or Virtual Private Network, encrypts your internet traffic, offering a shield of security. It also masks your IP address, allowing you to browse and stream content anonymously while simulating a different location. For instance, if you're abroad and craving Hulu, simply connect to a U.S. server to obtain a U.S. IP address. The convenience of VPNs extends to various devices, from iPhones to PCs. Dive into our list below to discover the best VPNs for streaming.
ExpressVPN
Best VPN for Streaming
Our Top Pick### ExpressVPN
0Experience rapid 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
- Exceptional streaming speeds
- Smart DNS feature for broader device compatibility
CONS
- Relatively higher cost
ExpressVPN stands out as a top-tier choice for streaming, thanks to its proprietary Lightway protocol, which boasts fewer lines of code for enhanced performance. Our recent speed tests clocked an average of 118 Mbps, surpassing competitors like Surfshark (104 Mbps) and IPVanish (84 Mbps). With over 3,000 servers spanning 105 countries, ExpressVPN effortlessly unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video. Its MediaStreamer (Smart DNS) feature further extends streaming capabilities to devices without VPN support, such as smart TVs and gaming consoles. As a no-logs VPN with robust 256-bit AES encryption and 24/7 support, ExpressVPN ensures both privacy and reliability.
For a deeper dive into why ExpressVPN is our top pick for streaming, check out our detailed review.
NordVPN
Best VPN for Netflix
### NordVPN
0Benefit from a perfect blend of speed, unblocking capabilities, and security. 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
- Extensive server network
- Independently audited no-logs policy
CONS
- Past data breach in 2018
NordVPN boasts an impressive network of over 6,000 servers across 111 countries, including 2,000 in the U.S., ensuring easy access to Netflix, HBO Max, Hulu, and YouTube TV. Its NordLynx protocol, based on WireGuard, delivers speedy streaming performance complemented by unlimited bandwidth. NordVPN's Smart DNS feature, known as SmartPlay, enhances its compatibility with various streaming platforms. With support for up to 10 simultaneous connections and an optional dedicated IP for an additional $3.69 per month, NordVPN caters to diverse user needs. Operating from Panama, where data retention laws are lenient, and with an audited no-logs policy, NordVPN offers peace of mind.
CyberGhost
Best VPN for Streaming While Traveling
### CyberGhost
0Leverage a vast server network and optimized servers for seamless streaming on the go. 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
- Over 2,000 U.S. servers
- Option for dedicated IP
CONS
- Fewer simultaneous connections compared to competitors
CyberGhost excels with its dedicated streaming servers tailored for platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+. Its expansive network of over 11,000 servers in 100 countries, including 2,000+ in the U.S., 500+ in Canada, and 1,100+ in the U.K., ensures consistent streaming performance. Utilizing the WireGuard protocol and unlimited bandwidth, CyberGhost offers stutter-free streaming. A dedicated IP is available for an additional $2.50 per month, ideal for bypassing blacklisting. CyberGhost's high-end encryption, DNS leak prevention, and no-logs policy safeguard your streaming activities.
Surfshark
Best VPN for Streaming on Multiple Devices
### Surfshark
0Enjoy affordable streaming with no limits on connected devices and strong unblocking capabilities. 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
- Exceptional unblocking capabilities
- Unlimited device connections
CONS
- Frequent CAPTCHA requests
Surfshark offers a compelling package with its fast speeds, extensive server network, and ability to bypass geo-blocking effectively. With access to multiple Netflix libraries and compatibility with BBC iPlayer, Peacock, and Prime Video, Surfshark is a top choice for streaming. It stands out with unlimited simultaneous device connections and over 3,000 servers across 100 countries, including 25 U.S. cities. As a no-logs VPN, Surfshark utilizes 256-bit AES encryption and includes a kill switch in all its apps, ensuring robust security.
Proton VPN
Best VPN for Privacy
### Proton VPN
0Experience rapid streaming 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 streaming speeds
- Transparent no-logs policy
CONS
- Requires an email for signup
Proton VPN has significantly expanded its network to over 4,900 servers across 90 countries, making it a strong contender for streaming while traveling. It effortlessly unblocks Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+ with the WireGuard protocol and its VPN Accelerator feature, delivering some of the fastest speeds among VPNs. Proton VPN supports up to 10 simultaneous connections and offers additional features like an ad blocker and Secure Core servers, although the latter is not ideal for streaming. Its transparent no-logs policy, independently audited, ensures your privacy is uncompromised.
IPVanish
Best Budget VPN for Streaming
### IPVanish
0Achieve high streaming speeds without breaking the bank. 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
- Ability to see server ping and load
- Highly affordable
CONS
- Customer support could be better
IPVanish has enhanced its offerings, expanding to over 2,400 servers, including 1,400 in the U.S., and adopting WireGuard. This makes it well-suited for streaming, successfully unblocking Netflix US, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu. With an average speed of 84 Mbps, IPVanish provides impressive performance for its price. Its apps make it easy to select optimal servers for streaming by displaying ping and load. IPVanish secures your streaming 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
0Stream high-resolution content with ease, thanks to PrivateVPN's user-friendly setup. 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
- Compatible with numerous streaming services
- Exceptional customer support
CONS
- Relatively few servers
PrivateVPN may be less known, but it excels in bypassing streaming restrictions with its small yet effective network of over 200 servers across 60+ countries, including 12 U.S. cities and three in Canada. It consistently unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, and ITVX. PrivateVPN's speeds are more than adequate for high-resolution streaming, and its user-friendly apps and top-notch customer support, including direct access to developers, make it an ideal choice for beginners. With a genuine no-logs policy and 256-bit AES encryption, PrivateVPN ensures secure streaming.
How to Pick the Best VPN for Streaming
Choosing the right VPN for streaming can be tricky due to the ongoing battle between VPNs and streaming services. The most reliable VPNs are those that consistently unblock streaming platforms while maintaining fast, stable connections. Here are the key factors we considered:
- Global server coverage: Including servers in the U.S. and U.K.
- Speed and consistency: Ensuring lag-free streaming experiences
- Unblocking capabilities: Accessing popular streaming services
- Encryption strength: Protecting your data with high-end security
- Privacy policy: No collection or storage of identifying logs
- Customer support: Availability of live chat and email support around the clock
How to Use the Best VPN for Streaming
Ready to start streaming with your chosen VPN? Follow these steps:
- 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 wish to access (e.g., a U.S. 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, top streaming VPNs use fast protocols like WireGuard, offer unlimited bandwidth, and have numerous low-load servers to minimize this impact. In some cases, a VPN might even improve your streaming speed if your ISP is throttling your connection.
Why Isn’t My VPN Working with Netflix?
If you're having trouble accessing Netflix with your VPN, start by clearing your browser's cookies to reset your IP address. Not all VPN servers work with Netflix, so you may need to try different servers, clearing cookies between attempts. If issues persist, reach out to your VPN's support for guidance on which servers are most likely to work.
Can I Use a Free VPN for Streaming?
Free VPNs often come with data caps, bandwidth throttling, and limited server options, making them less suitable for streaming. They may also compromise on encryption and privacy, sometimes even selling user data. Fortunately, many premium VPNs offer money-back guarantees, allowing you to test them risk-free.