Whether you're traveling and looking to enjoy Netflix, or facing ISP throttling, a VPN can be a game-changer. However, not all VPNs are created equal—some struggle with slow speeds or fail to unblock content effectively. After rigorous speed and unblocking tests, we've pinpointed the best VPNs for streaming movies, TV shows, and live sports events that are often blacked out.
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 robust security. It also conceals your IP address, enabling anonymous browsing and streaming, and allowing you to spoof your location. If you're abroad and want to access Hulu, simply connect to a US server to obtain a US IP address. The best VPNs for streaming are versatile, compatible with devices like iPhones, PCs, and more.
Our Top Pick### ExpressVPN
0Experience speedy streaming with unlimited bandwidth and a 30-day money-back guarantee. See it at ExpressVPN
Product Specifications
PROS
CONS
ExpressVPN has long been a go-to choice for streaming enthusiasts. While many VPNs have adopted the fast WireGuard protocol, ExpressVPN's proprietary Lightway protocol boasts fewer lines of code, which contributes to its superior performance. In our latest speed tests, we averaged 118 Mbps when connected to ExpressVPN’s servers, surpassing Surfshark (104 Mbps) and IPVanish (84 Mbps). ExpressVPN offers 3,000+ servers across 105 countries.
We successfully accessed multiple Netflix libraries, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video. The MediaStreamer (Smart DNS) feature is a significant advantage, allowing streaming on devices that don't support VPN apps, such as smart TVs and gaming consoles. ExpressVPN is a no-logs VPN using 256-bit AES encryption and supports up to 8 simultaneous connections. It also boasts excellent 24-hour support.
For a deeper dive into why ExpressVPN is our top pick for streaming, check out our comprehensive review.
### NordVPN
0Benefit from a stellar combination of speed, unblocking capabilities, and security. See it at NordVPN
Product Specifications
PROS
CONS
NordVPN has recently expanded its network to 6,000+ servers in 111 countries, making it one of the largest VPN networks available. It provides 2,000 US servers, facilitating easy access to Netflix, HBO Max, Hulu, and YouTube TV. NordVPN’s NordLynx protocol, based on WireGuard, delivers speeds more than sufficient for streaming, with unlimited bandwidth.
NordVPN also offers a Smart DNS feature (SmartPlay), which enhances its compatibility with various streaming platforms. You can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously, which is more than ExpressVPN and CyberGhost, and opt for a dedicated IP for an additional $3.69 per month. NordVPN operates from Panama, where there are no mandatory data retention laws, and its no-logs policy was audited by Deloitte in December 2023.
### CyberGhost
0Ideal for travelers with its vast server network and gaming-optimized servers. See it at CyberGhost
Product Specifications
PROS
CONS
CyberGhost excels with dedicated streaming servers optimized for platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+. Its extensive network includes over 11,000 servers in 100 countries, with 2,000+ in the US, 500+ in Canada, and 1,100+ in the UK.
CyberGhost is highly consistent for streaming, utilizing the WireGuard protocol and unlimited bandwidth for seamless streaming. A dedicated IP is available for just $2.50 a month, helping to bypass blacklisting. CyberGhost uses high-end encryption, prevents DNS leaks, and does not keep identifying logs, ensuring your streaming activities remain private.
### Surfshark
0An affordable VPN with strong unblocking capabilities and unlimited device connections. See it at Surfshark
Product Specifications
PROS
CONS
Surfshark offers excellent speeds, a robust server network, and the ability to bypass geo-blocking, making its one and two-year subscription plans great value. It accesses more Netflix libraries than most VPNs and works with BBC iPlayer, Peacock, and Prime Video, ranking among the fastest VPNs for streaming.
Unlike many VPNs, Surfshark allows unlimited simultaneous device connections. With 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
0Experience fast speeds and enhanced privacy with Proton VPN. See it at Proton VPN
Product Specifications
PROS
CONS
Proton VPN has significantly improved over the past year, expanding its server network to over 4,000 servers in 90 countries. This makes it ideal for bypassing geographic restrictions when traveling, including access to Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+. With the WireGuard protocol and its VPN Accelerator feature, Proton VPN offers some of the fastest speeds available, even with a strong focus on security.
Proton VPN allows up to 10 simultaneous device connections and offers additional features like an ad blocker and Secure Core servers for enhanced privacy (though the latter isn't suitable for streaming). Unlike many VPNs, Proton VPN's transparent no-logs policy has been independently audited.
### IPVanish
0Enjoy high speeds and unlimited bandwidth for seamless streaming and gaming. See it at IPVanish
Product Specifications
PROS
CONS
IPVanish has made strides in recent years, expanding its network to 2,400+ servers (1,400 in the US) and adopting WireGuard. This makes it more suitable for streaming, and we successfully accessed Netflix US, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu. IPVanish's global average speed of 84 Mbps is impressive, especially considering its affordability.
IPVanish makes it easy to find a suitable server for streaming by displaying each server's ping and load within the apps. It ensures secure streaming with 256-bit AES encryption, DNS leak protection, a kill switch, and threat protection. IPVanish also maintains a no-logs policy that cannot be linked to your identity.
### PrivateVPN
0Experience respectable speeds for high-resolution streaming with user-friendly apps. See it at PrivateVPN
Product Specifications
PROS
CONS
PrivateVPN may be lesser-known, but it offers a significant advantage by flying under the radar of streaming sites. Despite its small network of roughly 200 servers, these servers span over 60 countries, including 12 US cities and three in Canada. PrivateVPN consistently bypasses restrictions on Netflix, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, and ITVX.
PrivateVPN provides speeds sufficient for high-resolution streaming. Its beginner-friendly apps and exceptional customer support, including direct access to developers and free remote help, make setup and connection straightforward. PrivateVPN adheres to a genuine no-logs policy and uses 256-bit AES encryption.
The ability of a VPN to access streaming platforms can change unexpectedly due to the ongoing battle between VPNs and streaming services. Some VPNs consistently outperform others. Key factors influencing performance include your baseline internet speed, current VPN server load, and the distance to the VPN server.
The best VPNs for streaming offer reliable unblocking of streaming services and consistent connections. Other important considerations include:
Once you've chosen your streaming VPN, follow these steps to get set up:
A VPN typically slows your connection due to encryption and routing through a VPN server. However, the impact can be minimal with the best VPNs for streaming, which use fast protocols like WireGuard, offer unlimited bandwidth, and have low-load servers. In some cases, a VPN can even improve streaming speeds if your ISP is throttling your bandwidth, as it hides your traffic from your ISP.
If you can't access Netflix with your VPN, don't worry. Start by clearing your browser's cookies to help Netflix forget your previous IP address and recognize the new one from the VPN. Not all VPN IP addresses work with Netflix, so try multiple servers and clear your cookies between attempts. If issues persist, your VPN's support team can offer guidance on which servers are most likely to work.
Most free VPNs come with data caps and bandwidth throttling, making them less than ideal for streaming. They also typically offer fewer servers and locations, and may be less reliable at bypassing blocks. Additionally, free VPNs often lack strong encryption and may keep logs of your activity for sale to third parties. Fortunately, many premium VPNs offer generous money-back guarantees, allowing you to try them risk-free.
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