Whether you're traveling and trying to watch Netflix or facing ISP throttling, a VPN can be a game-changer. However, not all VPNs are created equal; some may struggle with slow speeds or ineffective unblocking. After thorough speed and unblocking tests, we've identified the best VPNs for streaming movies, TV shows, and even 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, providing a secure layer of privacy. It also masks your IP address, allowing you to browse and stream content anonymously while spoofing your location. For instance, if you're abroad and want to access Hulu, you can connect to a US server to obtain a US IP address. The best part? You can install a VPN on your iPhone, PC, or virtually any device. Here are our top picks for the best VPNs for streaming:
ExpressVPN
Best VPN for Streaming
Our Top Pick### ExpressVPN
0ExpressVPN stands out for its blazing-fast speeds and unlimited bandwidth, backed by 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
- Excellent speeds for streaming
- Smart DNS feature
CONS
- More expensive
ExpressVPN has been a reliable choice for streaming enthusiasts. While many VPNs have adopted the fast WireGuard protocol, ExpressVPN's proprietary Lightway protocol boasts fewer lines of code, contributing to its superior performance. In our recent speed tests, ExpressVPN averaged 118 Mbps, outperforming Surfshark (104 Mbps) and IPVanish (84 Mbps). With over 3,000 servers across 105 countries, ExpressVPN ensures seamless access to Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video. Its MediaStreamer (Smart DNS) feature allows streaming on devices that don't support VPN apps, such as smart TVs or gaming consoles. As a no-logs VPN, it uses 256-bit AES encryption and supports up to 8 simultaneous connections, complemented by round-the-clock support.
For a deeper dive into why ExpressVPN is our top pick for streaming, check out our detailed review.
NordVPN
Best VPN for Netflix
### NordVPN
0NordVPN combines impressive speed, unblocking capabilities, and robust security features. 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 has recently expanded its network to over 6,000 servers in 111 countries, making it one of the largest VPN networks. With 2,000 US servers, it's easy to access Netflix, HBO Max, Hulu, and YouTube TV. NordVPN's NordLynx protocol, built on WireGuard, ensures fast streaming with unlimited bandwidth. Its Smart DNS feature, SmartPlay, enhances compatibility with many streaming platforms. You can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously and opt for a dedicated IP for an additional $3.69 per month. Operating from Panama, where there are no mandatory data retention laws, NordVPN's no-logs policy was audited by Deloitte in December 2023.
CyberGhost
Best VPN for streaming while traveling
### CyberGhost
0CyberGhost offers a vast server network and a Windows app optimized for gaming in certain cities, making it ideal for streaming while on the move. 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 stands out with its dedicated streaming servers optimized for specific platforms, including Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+. Its extensive network of over 11,000 servers spans 100 countries, including 2,000+ in the US, 500+ in Canada, and 1,100+ in the UK. Using the WireGuard protocol and unlimited bandwidth, CyberGhost ensures smooth streaming. A dedicated IP is available for just $2.50 a month, helping you bypass blacklisting. With high-end encryption and effective DNS leak prevention, CyberGhost doesn't keep identifying logs, ensuring your streaming activities remain private.
Surfshark
Best VPN for streaming on multiple devices
### Surfshark
0Surfshark offers cost-effective plans, 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
- Strong unblocking capabilities
- Unlimited devices
CONS
- Frequent CAPTCHAs
Surfshark provides robust speeds and a generous server network, making it an excellent choice for sidestepping geo-blocking. It accesses more Netflix libraries than most VPNs and works well with BBC iPlayer, Peacock, and Prime Video. Surfshark ranks among the fastest VPNs for streaming and doesn't limit the number of devices you can connect simultaneously. With over 3,000 servers across 100 countries, including 25 US cities, you're likely to find a nearby server for a fast connection. As a no-logs provider, Surfshark uses 256-bit AES encryption and includes a kill switch in all its apps.
Proton VPN
Best VPN for privacy
### Proton VPN
0Proton VPN offers fast speeds and a growing server network, ideal for those who prioritize privacy. 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 suitable for bypassing geographic restrictions when traveling. It's compatible with Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+. With the WireGuard protocol and its VPN Accelerator feature, Proton VPN offers some of the fastest speeds available, despite its focus on security. You can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously and enjoy additional features like an ad blocker and Secure Core servers. Proton VPN's transparent no-logs policy has been independently audited, ensuring your privacy remains intact.
IPVanish
Best budget VPN for streaming
### IPVanish
0IPVanish offers high speeds and unlimited bandwidth, making it perfect for both gaming and streaming at an affordable 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 significantly, expanding its network to over 2,400 servers, with 1,400 in the US, and implementing WireGuard. This makes it more suitable for streaming, and we successfully accessed Netflix US, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu. With a global average speed of 84 Mbps in our tests, IPVanish offers impressive performance for a budget-friendly VPN. Its apps allow you to see each server's ping and load, making it easy to find a suitable server for streaming. IPVanish ensures secure 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
0PrivateVPN offers respectable speeds and excellent customer support, making it an ideal choice for beginners looking to stream. 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
PrivateVPN may be lesser-known, but it excels at flying under the radar of streaming sites. Despite its small network of roughly 200 servers, these servers cover over 60 countries, including servers in 12 US cities and three in Canada. PrivateVPN consistently bypasses restrictions on Netflix, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, and ITVX. Its speeds are more than sufficient for high-resolution streaming, and its beginner-friendly apps and exceptional customer support, including direct access to developers and free remote help, make setup a breeze. PrivateVPN maintains a genuine no-logs policy and uses 256-bit AES encryption for your security.
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 maintain reliable connections. Here are the key factors we considered:
- Servers worldwide (US and UK included)
- 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 selected your streaming VPN, follow these steps to get started:
- 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 the VPN server. However, top streaming VPNs use fast protocols like WireGuard, offer unlimited bandwidth, and have low-load servers, ensuring minimal impact on your streaming experience. In some cases, a VPN can even improve your speeds if your ISP is throttling your bandwidth, as it hides your traffic from your ISP.
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 may need to try multiple servers. If issues persist, contact your VPN's support for guidance on servers that work best with Netflix.
Can I use a free VPN for streaming?
Free VPNs often come with data caps, bandwidth throttling, and fewer servers, making them less reliable for streaming. They may also lack strong encryption and could log your activities for sale to third parties. Instead, consider trying premium streaming VPNs, which often come with money-back guarantees for a risk-free trial.
