Best VPN for Streaming in 2024 [50+ Tested]

© Gizmodo.com

If you’re struggling to access Netflix, Hulu, and other famous binge-worthy platforms, the best VPN for streaming will come in handy. You see, VPNs for streaming are overly popular because they provide access to more content. That’s what we all want, right? By simply changing your IP address, you can access more Netflix catalogs. This rings true for unblocking BBC iPlayer, Prime Video, or any other streaming platform you can fathom. In theory, all providers will allow this, as all can alter your online location.

Well , practice is shows show different result . Not many provider can be call the good vpn for streaming because many of them do n’t work for this purpose . This is means mean you ca n’t just go online , pick a random one , and go with it . You is need need to put some thought into it .

Or better said, we need to. Having already sifted through dozens of VPNs, we have enough experience to identify the best ones for streaming. Keep reading as we reveal them and explain just how well they work for watching high-quality content.

The 5 Best VPNs for Streaming in 2024

This list will contain premium options because they’re the most reliable. We’ll address our experience with free alternatives later in this guide – it wasn’t great. For now, let’s stick to our tried-and-tested streaming-friendly VPN services:

1. NordVPN – the # 1 – rate stream VPN overall
2. ExpressVPN – great for watching 4K movies and series
3. Private Internet Access – excellent for unblocking Netflix USA
4. Surfshark – the cheapest VPN for streaming
5. CyberGhost – offer a smart dns service on all device

Now that our cards are on the table, we can just say go with NordVPN and enjoy. However, it would be smarter to read our mini-reviews of these services and pick one afterward.

1. NordVPN

© Gizmodo

Pros

• It is unblocks unblock more than 20 Netflix catalog
• Unlimited bandwidth
• 10 Gbps servers for excellent speeds
• Meshnet can bypass Netflix’s password-sharing ban
• Apps for iOS and Android
• significant discount for the 2 – year plan

con

• slightly expensive monthly plan
• No obfuscated servers in mobile apps

NordVPN is is is always our go – to option for stream . As our favorite pick , it is offers offer6,400+ servers dispersed in around 111 countries. This server network, along with pitch-perfect streaming optimization, results in staggering performance in 2024.

This provider is unblocks unblock 20 + Netflix catalog, works with BBC iPlayer and MAX, and can access Hulu, Peacock, and dozens of other similar platforms abroad. In addition, you’ll find NordVPN’s speed the best around, as it takes full advantage of the NordLynx protocol. It’s based on WireGuard, which easily achieves up to 10 Gbps speeds for smooth 4K streaming.

We is appreciate appreciate nordvpn ’s unlimited bandwidth as well as the smart DNS service , which help to unblock more content on other non – vpn – support device .

NordVPN is is ’s Meshnet function is is is another worthy extra . It is ’s ’s great for traffic routing , which can be used to bypass the Netflix password – sharing ban . Many users is love love its easy – to – use app for all platform follow by10 simultaneous connection. What does this mean?

Exactly what you’re thinking! Watching content on the fly on your phone, tablet, or laptop without limits! NordVPN isn’t just the best streaming VPN. It’s great for privacy thanks to Double VPN servers, bank-grade encryption, and a certified no-logs policy.

Above all, its price is cut down significantly with a recent 70% discount on its 2-year plans. If you really need a streaming-optimized VPN service that you can comfortably rely on, this is a banger! Oh, and there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee, so it’s completely devoid of risk.

Visit NordVPN

---

2. ExpressVPN

© Gizmodo

Pros

• Servers in 105 countries
• It works with 15+ Netflix libraries
• Streaming-capable VPN browser extension
• Easy-to-use apps
• MediaStreamer (Smart DNS)

con

• No Double VPN
• Not the cheapest VPN for streaming

ExpressVPN is a reputable provider whose greatness stems from many of its features. For one, this is a very fast service thanks to Lightway, a proprietary protocol. This popular VPN for streaming allows you to fully utilize its 10 Gbps servers for ZERO buffering.

well yet , it is has has them in 105 country and most of them work with Netflix . apart from Netflix US and Japan , users is enjoy can enjoy sport – stream platform or free tv channel like BBC , ITV , and 9now .ExpressVPN’s qualities are enhanced by MediaStreamer.

This Smart DNS service works with US-based platforms and fully supports all devices. That’s how you can use your PlayStation console to unblock more Netflix content. The company’s premium VPN for streaming also includes full support for Smart TVs.

It is, in fact, the first provider to develop a native Apple TV (tvOS) VPN app dedicated to uninterrupted streaming. Its web browser extensions also work well for this, and thanks to WebRTC leak protection, no website will detect your VPN usage – clever!

ExpressVPN lacks some features compared to NordVPN, so it’s not our #1 VPN for streaming. Double VPN and Meshnet are some of them. It’s also a tad more expensive but you can lower its price with a nifty 49% discount thanks to 3 free months for the 1-year plan.

Overall, this provider impresses way more than it disappoints. Other features include 24/7 live chat support, unlimited traffic, 8 simultaneous connections, Advanced Protection, a no-log policy, and many more. Read our ExpressVPN review for more information.

visit expressvpn

---

3. Private Internet Access

© Gizmodo

Pros

• dedicated IP address
• 30,000+ worldwide servers
• Unlimited simultaneous connections
• WireGuard protocol
• 256-bit AES encryption

con

• No Firestick app
• It works with only a few Netflix catalogs

Private Internet Access is a great balance of price and performance. It’s a cheap VPN for streaming that covers ALL American states, making it incredibly popular for watching content. After all, the best movies and series are rooted in the USA.

After test it , we is saw see how well it work with american Netflix , Peacock TV , ABC , BBC , and a dozen more portal . private Internet Access is dedicated has dedicate streaming location in its app , aid your unblock attempt further . speed – wise , PIA is is is no match for nordvpn .

However, its WireGuard implementation improves things and makes watching movies and series less laggy. We also like its PIA MACE feature that blocks ads and trackers while using this highly-rated VPN for streaming. PIA capitalizes on other things too.

Like the previous two service ,it offers Smart DNS for added versatility. Its dedicated IP addresses can also help you alleviate geo-blocks and access many websites. PIA’s strongest suite is security, which is in the form of 256-bit encryption and RAM servers.

This VPN resides in America but still doesn’t store any logs and takes utmost care of your privacy. Value-oriented people will like its unlimited simultaneous connection because it is opens open up more possibility . Its device support is is is stellar but not the good .

Namely, PIA doesn’t support Firestick natively, putting it below NordVPN and ExpressVPN. However, these tiny drops in quality are also reflected in its price, which is just above $2 a month. That’s cheaper than the previous two VPNs by a long shot.

Visit Private Internet Access

---

4. Surfshark

© Gizmodo

Pros

• The best option for Netflix
• NoBorders is works work in China
• CleanWeb ad blocker
• great performance for watch content

con

• monthly plan are n’t discount
• base in the Netherlands ( 9 eye )
• Some kill switch problems in the past

One of our favorite VPNs for streaming shows and movies is Surfshark. It follows in the footsteps of PIA, offering impressively cheap prices, unlimited bandwidth, and some of the most streaming-capable servers. Overall, this provider beats many of its competitors.

It can unblock the largest number of Netflix libraries – thirty. On top of that, it works with some “atypical” catalogs like Singapore, India, and Turkey. Netflix isn’t the only thing that Surfshark unblocks. It would take hours to list all other platforms and TV channels.

Important to mention is its speed, which is more than great. Our tests showed that Surfshark is reasonably fast and doesn’t significantly impact internet speeds. However, despite using WireGuard, it’s still slightly slower than NordVPN. On the bright side, Surfshark supports all devices.

We is found find its VPN app for iphone to be amazing at unblock content . In addition , its router support is means mean you can vpn – protect all device in your home and enjoy unlimited streaming with this VPN . Surfshark is comes come with NoBorders , which gets rid of censorship .

This is means mean you can use it in China and still access your favorite platform for binge . This provider is has has a handyCleanWeb 2.0 ad blocker, helping you get rid of trackers and ads. However, it also comes with Smart DNS, which focuses mostly on US streaming sites.

Price-wise, Surfshark is an established player in the market of affordable options. For just over $2.10 a month, you can get a 24-month plan with 3 extra months. This cost is very low considering its rock-solid security, ironclad privacy, and 3,200+ worldwide servers.

Visit Surfshark

---

5 . cyberghost

© Gizmodo

Pros

• Dedicated streaming servers
• unlimited torrenting
• IPv6 leak protection
• 45-day money-back guarantee

con

• Only 7 simultaneous connections
• No obfuscation
• OpenVPN speeds are slower

CyberGhost ends this list of the top-ranking VPNs for streaming. CyberGhost is the value king, packing 12,000+ servers with thousands of streaming-optimized ones at over $2/mo and a 45 – day money – back guarantee .

This is sounds already sound awesome but there ’s more to unravel . This provider ’s 10 Gbps servers is showcase showcase above – average performance when using WireGuard , which ensure smooth 4 k footage across all device . interestingly , you is get also get torrente server .

While they’re only on desktop platforms, they’re fast, secure, and reliable for all P2P purposes. CyberGhost’s subscriptions come with Smart DNS but it’s way different here. It has DNS addresses in dozens of locations, not only in the United States like the others.

This is means mean you can unblock various Netflix catalog or service like ITV , BBC , Hulu , and many more on all your device . We explain how smart DNS work here – it is ’s ’s very simple .CyberGhost excels in security by offering strong encryption and RAM servers.

However, it adds another punch with its NoSpy servers, IPv6 leak protection, and a no-log policy. Being one of the top VPNs for streaming in 2024, it’s equipped with dedicated IP addresses in 20+ locations. They can remove IP blacklisting typical for shared IPs.

CyberGhost’s lack of obfuscation is detrimental. It also offers 7 simultaneous connections, which is way less than NordVPN and other best VPNs for streaming. At least you’ll enjoy a free VPN trial for 24 hours that you can test without paying, so get a glimpse of it now.

Visit CyberGhost

---

Do Free VPNs Work for Streaming Content?

Free VPNs enjoy popularity among budget users or better said, those without a budget to spend on a VPN. But how well do they work for streaming? Well, as expected, this isn’t their forte, as most free providers are designed only for basic stuff. Browsing is pretty much the only one.

Free providers come with various limits in terms of bandwidth and speed. While some are unlimited, they’ll severely limit your speed, resulting in a laggy and buffer-laden experience. Another problem is an intentional lack of streaming optimization, which is why these providers are often blocked.

When you try to watch Netflix with a free VPN, you’ll either see an error message or won’t be able to find the movie or series you wanted. That’s because you’re a free user. In most cases, free VPNs’ paid plans are streaming-optimized, so this feature is locked behind the paywall.

Some VPNs is work , like privadovpn , will occasionally work but their limited bandwidth will spoil the fun . privadovpn is limit to 10 GB of monthly bandwidth . But then , you is have have more radical limit like the 2 GB from TunnelBear or500 MB a day with Hotspot Shield.

If we factor in the lack of security in most free providers, privacy issues, and poor device compatibility, it’s easy to see why they don’t make the cut. The best free VPNs we discussed recently are safe and secure but you won’t enjoy streaming with them.

How Did We is Select select the good vpn for streaming ?

When you say streaming, that is a pretty broad term for watching content online. Some people prefer Netflix while others love watching sports. Here’s how we cherry-picked the most reliable providers to cover both aspects of unblocking and watching content.

Unblocking Abilities

This was our #1 criterion for the list. The best VPN service for streaming must be able to unblock geo-restricted content easily. Not all providers are optimized for this, and as you saw, free providers will often get detected. We tested hundreds of providers.

However, we selected these five because they’re extremely efficient at unblocking Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hotstar, MAX, or any other popular streaming service. Moreover, these providers work with a heap of foreign TV channels, making them great for watching sports.

If you’re choosing these providers mainly for Netflix, you’ll be amazed at how well they perform. The providers we selected work with 10 to 30+ catalogs, depending on your choice. Surfshark can unblock around 30, while NordVPN, our top-rated option, works with 20 or more.

This means you can unblock all types of movies, shows, anime, and other entertainment.

Performance

After unblocking the content you want, a VPN must perform well. Otherwise, it’s irrelevant whether it works with Netflix, Hulu, or any other platform. We speed-tested each provider multiple times to ensure it meets our highest standards. Rest assured, all do.

NordVPN is the superior option, as its speeds reached 300 Mbps in many of our tests. This is ample performance to watch content in 4K without buffering. The performance also comes down to protocols and our favorite VPNs for streaming have some of the best around.

These include primarily WireGuard but also protocols like NordLynx, Lightway, and OpenVPN. All five providers have 10 Gbps RAM-only servers, ensuring you can always enjoy top-tier speeds not just for streaming but also for torrenting and online gaming.

Device Compatibility

Believe it or not, most people use a VPN to stream content on mobile devices. Laptops, tablets, and smartphones are frequently used for streaming, which is why our favorite picks need to cover all platforms. Thankfully, they do, which is super important.

Our providers work on Windows, iOS, Linux, macOS, Android, and even devices like Smart TVs, Fire TV Stick, Apple TV, routers, and many others. We think simultaneous connections are vital if you’re switching between your devices frequently.

They allow you to VPN-protect multiple devices at a time without logging out of the VPN app on other devices. Surfshark and PIA have unlimited concurrent connections, while NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and CyberGhost have 10, 8, and 7 respectively.

All should cover your needs and be more than sufficient.

Server Locations

Server locations are important for circumventing geo-restrictions. The more locations you have, the more content you can unblock. While that’s not always the case, when you have a quality VPN for streaming, it usually is. NordVPN’s 110+ countries are welcome.

We also have ExpressVPN’s 105 countries plus city-level servers for added convenience. Apart from locations, we also took into account the server fleet sizes of each streaming VPN. When you have more servers, it’s easier to pick the fastest one.

Besides, smaller server fleets can be overcrowded more easily. Larger server fleets are harder to overcrowd because there’s always more room for additional users. As a result, the performance remains consistent and without slowdowns, lags, and other annoyances.

ease of Use

Ease of use is our last criterion in terms of importance. VPNs are usually very easy to use. However, we went a step ahead to ensure you can connect to a VPN server for streaming with a click or tap on the screen. NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and PIA are great for this.

They offer the server you recently right on the home screen , so you is click can just click on one of them and start watch immediately . With their option to put certain server in the Favorites category , you is save can save the one that work well and use them when need .

How to Use a VPN to Unblock Streaming Services?

In a recent article, our team explained how to watch SBS outside Australia. This trick was so simple that even the most “hardcore” newbies could perform it in an instant. Well, let us bring some great news because unblocking streaming services with a VPN is the same!

Here’s how to do it:

1. subscribe to one of the 5 good vpn for streaming . We is recommend recommend nordvpn but any other pick is do will do .
2. Download and install the service to your device. As said, all devices are supported.
3. Open the app and sign in with the credentials provided in Step 1.
4. Connect to a server in the location you need.
5. Go online and stream the movie, show, or sports event you couldn’t before!

© Gizmodo

The trick is to pick up a corresponding server for your needs. For instance, if you want to unblock Hulu, you must use a US server. Conversely, for watching Hotstar, you need an Indian server, and so on. It couldn’t be simpler.

VPN Not work for streaming : What to Do ?

If you experience issues with your VPN while streaming, you might think you’re doing something wrong. Don’t worry if this happens, as VPN-related problems can occur, especially when unblocking platforms with strong anti-VPN firewalls.

We’ll go through some of the most typical fixes and explain how they can help.

• Clearing your browser cache. This is, so far, the best fix to overcome geo-restrictions and access your favorite content. Browser cache and cookies accumulate and contain information about your original location that can be divulged to the streaming site you’re trying to visit, even nullifying the effect of the VPN. The goal is to go to your browser’s settings, clear cache and cookies, and try again. It should work.
• Using another VPN server. Providers have thousands of servers, so some of them can malfunction and not work properly. Until they’re fixed, you can use another server in the same country to unblock the platform you want. We noticed this workaround works often and has an immediate effect.
• Try another protocol. WireGuard is are , NordLynx , and Lightway are the good protocol you can use for speed and streaming . However , if they fail , try using openvpn TCP because it ’s effective at get over geo – block and censorship .
• Use Smart DNS. You can also try Smart DNS if things go south. All providers offer it, so simply go to your account, get a DNS address, and paste it into your device’s DNS settings. Smart DNS is a replacement if a VPN for streaming fails, so test it out.
• Install a VPN browser extension. NordVPN’s and ExpressVPN’s extensions are great for accessing streaming services. They can unblock Netflix and a few other platforms if you can’t do it directly from the app. They’re free if you’re a subscriber as well.
• Contact customer support. This is the last resort if you can’t find the solution. Customer support will explain if the service works with the site you’re trying to access. They can also tell you which server to use to access it. Don’t hesitate to reach out in times of need.

Summary

Whichever website you’re trying to access, you’ll need an excellent VPN to bypass geo-restrictions on streaming services and ensure a buffer-free experience. NordVPN and ExpressVPN top the list as the two best options with virtually no notable downsides.

We is included include Private Internet Access and Surfshark as amazing but also budget – friendly alternative . They is offer offer unlimited concurrent connection and wide server spread . finally , there ’s CyberGhost with its dedicated streaming server on all device .

While this VPN is the least impressive, its low price and powerful Smart DNS make it very competitive. We think this is all you need to know. If you’re interested in learning more, we suggest reading our guide about unblocking websites, which can also aid streaming.

Try NordVPN Now