Best VPNs for Streaming: Unblock Movies and Shows for Free (2024)

Get your popcorn out—we’re here to recommend the best VPN for streaming!

Chances are you’ve found your favorite TV shows or movies inaccessible at one point or another due to censorship or geo-restrictions. With a VPN, you don’t have to worry about this any longer.

After putting 30+ VPNs through rigorous testing, we present you with the crème de la crème, the best streaming VPNs of this year. Whether you want to unblock Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max, or Amazon Prime Video, these streaming VPNs can do it all.

The winner? With blazing speeds and the ability to unblock any platform we tried, NordVPN is the clear winner! At the moment, NordVPN has a special offer that gets you 58% off a new plan. Start streaming today!

Why You Need a Streaming VPN

You need a VPN for streaming for one simple reason: not all streaming libraries offer the same content.

Due to limitations on distribution rights, streaming platforms like Netflix or Amazon Prime Video can’t offer the same libraries in every single country worldwide. Moreover, certain streaming services such as Hulu and HBO Max are exclusively available in a select few regions.

The best streaming VPN gets you around any geographical restrictions. Want to watch the Star Wars Ahsoka series but can’t access Disney+ in your country? A VPN lets you change your virtual location to the United States or anywhere else in the world.

In other words, a VPN unblocks a world of content for you with a single click!

The Best VPNs for Streaming

The best VPN for streaming will enhance your streaming experience wherever you are in the world. With access to optimized streaming servers, fast speeds, and a global server network, you can sit back, relax, and unblock any platform you like.

After testing 30+ VPN providers, we have found the VPNs that work best with popular streaming platforms. Check out the table below for some of their key features.

	Editor’s Pick
VPN
Servers	5000+	3000-5000	5000+	Thousands	Thousands
Compatibilities
Netflix	Works with Netflix	Works with Netflix	Works with Netflix	Works with Netflix	Works with Netflix
Connections	10	Unlimited	7	8	Unlimited
Price	$ 3.09	$ 2.49	$ 2.03	$ 8.32	$ 1.98
Money-back guarantee	Money-back guarantee, 30 Days	Money-back guarantee, 30 Days	Money-back guarantee, 45 Days	Money-back guarantee, 30 Days	Money-back guarantee, 30 Days
	Visit NordVPN	Visit Surfshark	Visit CyberGhost	Visit ExpressVPN	Visit Private Internet Access (PIA)

Below, we take a deep dive into each of the streaming characteristics of these streaming VPNs.

1. NordVPN: Best streaming VPN overall

NordVPN is our #1 pick if you’re looking for the perfect streaming VPN. NordVPN withstood our testing perfectly, unblocked all major streaming platforms, and offered fast speeds for a smooth HD viewing experience. With over 6331 VPN servers to choose from, it can’t get better than this!

Important streaming features

• Unblocking powerhouse: NordVPN connected to any server we chose within seconds and could unblock any Netflix library, including the US and UK ones, and other streaming platforms like HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer.
• High speeds and performance: With the ultra-fast NordLynx protocol (based on WireGuard), you can change your IP address in seconds and stream without any buffering.
• Optimized streaming experience with SmartPlay technology: You can use NordVPN’s SmartPlay technology (Smart DNS) to stream on devices that usually don’t work with a VPN, including your Amazon Fire Stick or Smart TV.

Streaming test: NordVPN

NordVPN managed to unblock all major streaming services we tried!

*HBO Max is currently only available on European servers. Max (the American platform) requires a separate subscription. Regardless, with NordVPN, you won’t have any issue unblocking Max either.

At the moment, you can get 58% off your NordVPN subscription, plus three free months! Moreover, there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee that lets you try the VPN risk-free for a whole month.

2. Surfshark: Fast and affordable streaming VPN

If you’re looking for the best VPN for streaming that gives you a bang for your buck, check out Surfshark. During our Surfshark testing circuit, we unblocked HBO Max, Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and more.

Important streaming features

• 3200+ VPN servers across 100 countries. With Surfshark, we could access a wide range of international streaming content. With a single click, we could unblock a world of entertainment from the comfort of our coach.
• Speed and performance: Surfshark is one of the fastest VPNs of the moment, giving you the ultimate streaming experience. Thanks to Surfshark’s SmartDNS feature, you can configure your VPN on all sorts of devices, increasing your chances of bypassing geo-blocks. Your connection is encrypted with 256-bit encryption at all times.
• Dedicated IP address: Surfshark allows users to buy dedicated IP addresses that will be theirs alone. This is a very useful feature as streaming platforms often recognize if the same IP is used multiple times, and they can then block that IP.

Streaming test: Surfshark

Surfshark faired great during our training tests.

Surfshark is a true value-for-money VPN! The provider allows you to have unlimited simultaneous connections. Share your VPN account with as many friends and family members as you want and pay next to nothing.

Right now, you can even get up to 84% discount on your VPN or make use of the 30-day money-back guarantee if you want to check out Surfshark, one of the best streaming VPNs without paying a dime.

3. CyberGhost: Very cheap VPN to unblock streaming content

CyberGhost is dedicated to providing you with a great streaming experience. A CyberGhost subscription won’t cost you more than a couple of dollars a month, and they have a 45-day money-back guarantee. From our experience with CyberGhost, we know this VPN is great for streaming, regardless of where you live.

Important streaming features

• Optimized streaming servers: We unblocked all major streaming services, including the British, German, and US Netflix libraries. You can connect to over 11188 different VPN servers in 100 countries.
• Dedicated IP addresses: With a dedicated IP, you get a private IP address that’s just for you to use. It makes it way more difficult for streaming services to block your IP address when they suspect you’re using a VPN.
• User-friendly VPN: We found this virtual private network very easy to use as it had a well-functioning desktop and mobile app. You can connect up to seven devices at the same time and stream content without any lagging. CyberGhost’s streaming servers even work on the Amazon Fire Stick.

Streaming test: CyberGhost

During our Surfshark streaming tests, this provider successfully unblocked all major streaming platforms.

CyberGhost is already a very affordable VPN, yet they also give new customers a chance to try out the service for 45 days before committing. At the moment, there’s a special deal on offer to give new users 84% off + two months for free.

4. ExpressVPN: Premium and secure streaming VPN

During our ExpressVPN tests, we found this provider to be a reliable VPN for streaming, as we could unblock all the best TV streaming services. With thousands of server locations in 105 countries, ExpressVPN offers more than enough options to watch global and local series and movies. This is why it is on our best VPN for streaming list.

Important streaming features

• Lightway protocol: This particular protocol gave us super-fast streaming speeds and kept our internet connection stable when switching between networks. High performance is guaranteed: we managed to easily unblock Netflix and other streaming services.
• MediaStreamer: With this feature, we could stream content on different platforms easily and use it on various devices. It helped us hide our true location, so we were able to bypass geo-blocks.
• One of the best no-log VPNs: With ExpressVPN, you pay for security. It’s one of the best zero-log VPNs that keeps your data private at all times. With its obfuscated servers, you can bypass even the strictest of geo-blocks! This makes it an ideal VPN for streaming from anywhere.

Streaming test: ExpressVPN

We put ExpressVPN to the test and tried it with various streaming platforms, and the results we got were impressive.

ExpressVPN is on the pricier side compared to other providers on our best streaming VPN list. Lucky for you, we can offer a special ExpressVPN deal that gives you 35% off your new subscription.

What’s great is that ExpressVPN doesn’t force you to commit for multiple years. Want to test this streaming VPN without any risks? Make use of the 30-day money-back guarantee!

5. Private Internet Access: Streaming VPN with largest server network

Private Internet Access (PIA) is our final recommendation in our best VPN for streaming list. This streaming VPN has the largest server network in the world with thousands servers. When testing PIA, we could easily access various Netflix libraries in different countries, such as Japan and Brazil.

Important streaming features

• Unblocks major streaming platforms: While unblocking some lesser-known video libraries can require switching between servers, we experienced no issues getting access to HBO Max, Netflix, and other streaming services.
• Optimized streaming servers: PIA offers optimized servers for streaming automatically. Moreover, you can configure the offered VPN speeds to make streaming even better. PIA also offers dedicated IP addresses to bypass restrictions, a great plus!
• Unlimited simultaneous connections: Already one of the most affordable VPNs in the world, Private Internet Access lets you share your account with others to save even more on costs. Get PIA on unlimited devices and enjoy streaming on any operating system.

Streaming test: Private Internet Access

We put PIA through rigorous testing and were pleased to see that it could unblock all popular streaming providers.

If you’re looking for a budget streaming VPN, Private Internet Access is one of the most affordable VPNs around. Right now, you can get up to 83% off. They also offer a 30-day trial if you’d rather try the service for yourself first.

How We Picked the Best VPNs for Streaming

Not every VPN can successfully unblock streaming services like Netflix and Disney+, so when testing our VPNs, we ensure they meet a certain standard and include specific features.

Here are the main criteria we keep in mind when choosing the best VPN for streaming:

• Ability to unblock popular streaming services: The best VPNs for streaming don’t work with a single streaming service but with all of them. Each VPN recommended in this article can unblock Netflix and other major streaming sites.
• Speed and performance: We do regular and extensive VPN speed tests to ensure you can stream content without buffering or delays. Some VPN protocols are faster than others. If you have the choice, we always recommend streaming over the WireGuard protocol, which generally gives you the best speeds.
• Extra streaming features: The best streaming VPNs offer extra features that optimize your streaming experiences, such as dedicated streaming servers or Smart DNS. A dedicated IP address can be useful when sites like Netflix block VPN use.
• Large server network: The larger your VPN provider’s server network, the better your chances of accessing a wide range of international streaming platforms and libraries.
• Privacy and security: Keeping your real IP address hidden from a streaming platform and your internet service provider is a necessary feat for a good streaming experience. The most private VPNs are so-called no-logs VPN services; they don’t store any of your personal data. AES 256-bit encryption is also essential.

How to Install a VPN for Streaming: NordVPN

Installing a VPN for streaming is very easy and straightforward. Since NordVPN is the best VPN for streaming, we’ll take you through the installation process for this VPN provider, but the steps are similar for each VPN.

Here’s how you can start streaming with a VPN:

1. Subscribe to NordVPN. You can choose your plan on the NordVPN website and start using the #1 VPN for streaming right away.

   

2. Download the NordVPN software for your device. NordVPN has VPN apps for PC, macOS, Android, iOS, and even smart TVs. Just pick the one you need from the website.

   

3. Install the VPN. This won’t take more than a couple of minutes.

   

4. Log in with your NordVPN account.

   

5. From here, you can connect to any VPN server you like. If you want to unblock Hulu or HBO Max, connect to a server in the United States.

   

6. Head over to the streaming service you want to unblock and enjoy your favorite shows and movies! We unblocked Prime Video with NordVPN and watched some of our favorite shows without issues.

   

That’s all there is to it! If you want to get started right away, you’ve got limited time to make use of NordVPN’s 58% discount!

How to Stream With a VPN on iOS or Android: NordVPN

You can use NordVPN on your mobile device to stream TV shows and movies on the go. It’s very straightforward:

1. Go to the App Store or the Google Play Store and look for the NordVPN app.

   

2. Download the app.
3. Open NordVPN on your phone. If you haven’t created an account yet, you can do so. Otherwise, sign in.
4. Signed in, you can connect to a server with a single click. Just select “Quick Connect.”

   

5. Head over to the streaming service you want to watch and enjoy unblocked content!

How to Stream With a VPN on Fire TV Stick: ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is one of the best streaming VPNs for the Amazon Fire TV Stick. Installing a VPN on a Fire TV Stick is a bit more complex than on most devices. Even so, it won’t take you long to get streaming services unblocked if you follow these steps:

1. Look for ExpressVPN in your Fire TV Stick app library.
2. Download the ExpressVPN app.
3. Open ExpressVPN. If you haven’t yet, you can create an account. Otherwise, log in.
4. Run through the installation. After installing the software, the app will be ready for use.
5. Turn on your VPN for streaming. You can choose the location in the ExpressVPN app and select a specific server you want to connect to.
6. Enjoy unblocked content on your favorite streaming service!

Can I Unblock a Streaming Service With a Free VPN?

While there are some great free VPNs to watch Netflix and other streaming platforms with, generally, we don’t recommend getting a free VPN for streaming. Most of the time, free VPNs are simply incapable of getting around streaming providers’ geographical restrictions.

Additionally, there are various limitations to free VPNs:

• Small server network: Free VPNs usually don’t offer many server locations. This means you won’t be able to access as much international content as you would with a paid VPN for streaming. Moreover, a limited number of VPN servers means that servers can get overcrowded and blocked more easily.
• Low performance: Most free services are slower and don’t run as smoothly as paid services. If you’re simply trying to hide your IP, this might not be such an issue, but for HD streaming, you need a fast VPN.
• Privacy risks: Any product that’s free has hidden costs. In the case of a free streaming VPN, the price you pay is your data. More often than not, free VPNs collect and sell your data to third parties. While it won’t hinder your streaming, it’s not great from a privacy point of view.
• Data caps: This is one of the biggest downsides of free VPN services. Most providers will have a data cap of 10GB, 5GB, or even 2GB per month. This is not ideal for streaming.

If there’s one free VPN that’s worth checking out for streaming, it’s Proton VPN. We know from testing Proton that it’s one of the few free VPN providers capable of unblocking streaming sites.

Proton VPN: Best free VPN for streaming

Proton VPN is one of the only free VPNs in the world that doesn’t have a data cap. With Proton, you get unlimited data, which is a necessity if you want to stream anything online.

Regarding the server network, the free plan offers VPN servers in three locations: Japan, The Netherlands, and the United States. This is not much, but enough to give you access to some major streaming services.

Speaking of, we’re pretty impressed by how well Proton VPN did in our streaming test:

Even though Proton can unblock several streaming services, you’re still better off with a premium streaming VPN for the most reliable and stable VPN connection.

The best VPNs for streaming don’t have any limitations.

Is Streaming With a VPN Legal?

In most cases, streaming with a VPN is legal. However, there are some complications and things to keep in mind before you use a VPN for streaming, like the following:

• In certain countries, using a VPN is illegal, no matter what you use it for. If you’re in Russia or Iran, for example, you’ll find VPN use highly restricted and even punishable by law.
• A VPN doesn’t make illegal activity legal. If you use your VPN to do anything that is prohibited by law in the country you’re located in, the VPN won’t protect you on a legal level. For example, downloading copyrighted material is still illegal with a VPN. In largely uncontrolled online spaces like the dark web, you must be especially careful.

Speaking of the dark web, NordVPN will enhance your safety there through its robust AES 256-bit encryption and Threat Protection feature that will block malware and stop other online threats on their tracks.

Why are streaming services blocking VPNs?

In recent years, more and more streaming services have started pushing back against VPN use, including Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime.

When you use a certain service, you have to agree to the terms of service. Major streaming services often include a clause that states that VPNs may not be used to access geo-restricted content. This is because not all countries have equal distribution rights.

Should you be worried? Not really. As long as you’re in a country where VPNs are not prohibited by law, nothing terrible will happen. If your streaming VPN does get detected by a streaming service like Netflix or HBO Max, most of the time, your access will simply be revoked. That’s all.

If you’re in an area where VPN use is more regulated by law, you might be fined or face different consequences. This is why you should always ensure you’re up to date with your country’s legislation on VPN usage. Also, keep in mind that any legislation can be subject to change.

VPNs to Avoid for Streaming

It’s important to know which providers are the best streaming VPNs and which services to stay away from. Not all VPNs are suited for streaming, and we recommend staying clear of the following VPN providers.

Get Started With the Best Streaming VPN Today

The best VPN for streaming will give you access to multiple streaming sites and have ultra-fast servers. It will change your IP address easily and get around geo-blocks with a single click. On top of that, streaming VPNs must have a large server network to unblock global and local content.

After researching and testing 30+ VPN providers, we recommend NordVPN as the best streaming VPN. It can bypass geo-blocks of streaming services in seconds and has a server network that unlocks plenty of global content.

Currently, NordVPN has one of the best deals available for new users!

Want to find out more about the best VPNs for different purposes? Check out our articles below:

• What Is the Fastest VPN?
• The Best VPNs for Online Banking: Protect Your Bank Account
• Best VPN for Torrenting and P2P: Tested and Proven

Lauren MakAuthor

Senior Journalist

Lauren is an internal censorship and security-focused journalist with an eye for how technology affects society. With a background in International Relations and North American Studies, Lauren has a passion for helping understand the importance of privacy, freedom, and internet safety.

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