Geo-restrictions are the real crime here, especially if you’re not able to stream some of the best movies and TV shows just because of where you live. For example, even if you have Netflix in your country, you won’t be able to access other libraries unless you change your IP address. Then there are other issues that arise that ruin your streaming experience, and that is ISP speed and bandwidth throttling. You can fix and bypass all these issues with the best VPN for streaming in 2024.
Although, you must note that not every VPN is the best for streaming popular movies, TV shows, documentaries or live sports events. There are only a few VPNs that work in this case. We’ve tested and listed some of the best, with top recommendation given to ExpressVPN.
TLDR; Best Streaming VPNs in 2024
- ExpressVPN is the best streaming VPN in 2024. It’s fast, secure, and offers servers that are optimized to unblock global content quickly. We got access to Hulu, HBO Max, US Netflix, Amazon Prime and more. It comes with a free trial and 30-day money-back guarantee. You can even use its MediaStreamer DNS to stream content on gaming consoles.
- Surfshark is known for its unlimited device connections and servers that are optimized for streaming. This means you can unblock the best streaming apps on multiple supported devices. Surfshark offers top-notch privacy, real-time alerts for malicious traffic, and Camouflage mode to protect you against ISP throttling.
- NordVPN is the best secure streaming VPN. Its speeds are not faster than ExpressVPN, but it successfully eliminates buffering issues. NordVPN conceals your IP address and protects all of your devices while you stream your favorite content without revealing your actual geo-location.
- CyberGhost makes a reliable VPN for streaming with user-friendly apps and dedicated streaming servers. We were able to access US Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer and many others. However, you need to keep choosing the best servers, since not all work the same.
- IPVanish is great for unblocking US geo-restricted content from platforms like Netflix USA, HBO Max, Hulu, ESPN+, and Amazon Prime. Just like Surfshark, IPVanish too offers unlimited device connections, but the speeds are not always the fastest.
How to Use the Best VPN for Streaming in 2024 – Quick Steps
For the tutorial below, we’ve used Netflix and Hulu as an example. Here’s how to access them with the best VPN for streaming:
- Get a subscription to the best VPN for streaming. We recommend ExpressVPN.
- Download and install the ExpressVPN app on your streaming device. (ExpressVPN provides compatible apps for major devices. If you are streaming on a gaming console, Apple TV, or Smart TV, then you need to configure the ExpressVPN app via your Wifi router.)
- Log into the VPN app and connect to a US server.
- Sign up for Netflix or Hulu with your new US IP address or sign in if you have an account.
- You’ve now unblocked US streaming services with the best VPN for streaming.
NOTE – You only need to change servers according to the streaming service you want access to.
Why Do You Need the Best VPN for Streaming in 2024?
There are many reasons why you need the best VPN for streaming, regardless of where you are. There is an unlimited list of movies and TV shows that are not always available in every country. Geo-restrictions and copyright laws are the main issues behind this, but a streaming VPN is the best solution to circumvent it. Other than needing the best VPN for streaming to access limited content, you can use it to secure your connection. Even if you can access a streaming service in your country, there are issues like surveillance and data logging. Your ISP even goes as far as to hamper your speeds and bandwidth. If you’re streaming Himovies or alternative, you could become a target of malicious attacks.
Best VPN for Streaming in 2024 [Detailed Guide]
Here’s why we chose these 5 providers as the best streaming VPNs in 2024:
1. ExpressVPN – #1 Best Streaming VPN
| Price | $6.67/mo. |
| Website | Expressvpn.com |
ExpressVPN is widely recognized as the fastest and securest VPNs with its cutting-edge encryption. This is just a few reasons why it’s currently our top choice for the best streaming VPN in 2024. Just in case you’re trying to access unlimited restricted streaming services including Hulu, HBO Max, Amazon Prime, Disney Plus and BBC iPlayer, ExpressVPN works the best for it. It even unblocks Netflix!
It has around 3000+ servers in a huge coverage of 94 countries. To make your streaming smoothe, ExpressVPN offers the fastest speeds!
This VPN giant has huge support for all the major apps and devices. A few of these include Windows, FirestickTV, and Android, Nvidia shield, iOS, Android TV, Apple TV, browser extensions, and a lot more!
The best part is, you can use ExpressVPN on multiple devices at the same time, because it allows you to make up to 5 multi-device connections, without hampering speed and performance.
ExpressVPN’s security front is also a force to be reckoned with. It operates using impenetrable 256-bit AES encryption on OpenVPN/PPTP protocols, has an in-built Kill Switch, DNS, and IP leak protection.
ExpressVPN even has an advanced feature by the name of MediaStreamer, which is used for unblocking multiple streaming platforms.
You can test out the app using the ExpressVPN 7 day free trial, as well as its reliable 30-day refund policy. Just in case you’re not satisfied with the service, you can ask for a refund. In a nutshell, you can count on ExpressVPN as the best VPN for streaming on platforms that are geo-restricted and more.
Get ExpressVPN for Streaming Now
2. Surfshark – Streaming VPN with Unlimited Device Connection
| Price | $2.49/mo. |
| Website | Surfshark.com |
Surfshark is another great VPN for streaming that gives you 3200+ servers in 100 countries. That’s a lot of location coverage for you to choose from! During tests, we were able to unblock Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, Kodi, and others.
The Surfshark speeds were consistent throughout. You can check the results in this Surfshark review. High speeds are very important for 4K HD streaming quality. You’ll be provided with unlimited bandwidth and a buffer-less streaming experience to watch your favorite shows and movies without any interruption.
This provider is also best for streaming because of the multiple devices it supports. A few of these include Firestick, Windows, Android, iOS, Linux, Smart TVs, Browser extensions, etc. It further allows you to make unlimited device connections simultaneously, per subscription.
Surfshark, hailing from the British Virgin Islands, also believes in strict privacy laws for every user. Along with this, Surfshark provides strong security features, some of which include an active Kill Switch, military encryption, use of the OpenVPN protocol, and another advanced feature called GPS Spoofing. This ensures that your physical IP address or identity is well-hidden and secured.
To put Surfshark to the test, you can use its free trial period, along with an extended testing period through its 30-day refund policy.
Get Surfshark VPN for Streaming Now
3. NordVPN – Secure Streaming VPN with Obfuscated Servers
| Price | $3.30/mo. |
| Website | Nordvpn.com |
NordVPN is known for its security, but it’s also one of the best VPNs for streaming. It gives you access to 5500+ in 59 countries, all of which are optimized for unblocking the best streaming services, or libraries, or even to access live sports events. We tested it with Amazon Prime, Hotstar, BBC iPlayer, the US Netflix library, Hulu, and more! You can even use the NordVPN Double VPN servers. That means double the unblocking capabilities with great security measures.
You won’t have any problems with speed, because NordVPN produces steady speed results for 4K HD streaming quality.
Regardless of what device you wish to stream content from, NordVPN is more than compatible with all the major apps and platforms. Some include Windows, Firestick, Android TV, iOS, macOS, Linux, browser extensions, and a lot more! It also allows you to connect up to 6 multi-devices per subscription.
NordVPN operates on 256-bit AES encryption, supports the major protocols, and has a functional Kill Switch. It’s also DNS leak protected and has advanced features like a CyberSec feature that blocks malicious ads and a Smart Play feature, which aids in unblocking restricted content, worldwide. You can test the app for a better feel of the VPN.
If you’re thinking of directly subscribing, and don’t find the app according to your liking, simply ask for a refund before the 30-day mark. All in all, NordVPN is loved by users worldwide.
4. CyberGhost – Dedicated VPN IP Addresses for Streaming
| Price | $2.25/mo. |
| Website | Cyberghost.com |
CyberGhost is popular among users for its optimized servers, fast speeds, and great privacy features. There are many reasons why this VPN made it to my list, but what stands out is the fact that the VPN app has separate servers for streaming and separate servers for torrenting. We connected to a couple of its VPN servers and got access to movies like The Mandalorian on Disney Plus, House of the Dragon on HBO Max, Dahmer on Netflix and The Handmaid’s Tale on Hulu.
It has huge coverage of 9000+ servers in 91 countries. On its app, you’ll find that each popular streaming service has its own server with its label on it. That makes it very easy for CyberGhost VPN users to choose one. The results of its speed were positively good, especially for HD streaming.
CyberGhost allows you a maximum of 7 simultaneous multi-device connections. Now, you can use the app on 7 of its supported devices, some of which include Firestick, Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, Android TV, Browser Extensions, and more.
Did you know that CyberGhost is known best for privacy? That is a major plus point, especially if you’re trying to access geo-blocked services.
On its security front, it operates using bank-grade encryption, uses OpenVPN/IKEv2 protocols, in-built anti-malware, and DNS protection, and has a Kill Switch.
There’s a lot more for you to bank on using CyberGhost for streaming. Try and test it out for yourself using the CyberGhost free trial. Additionally, it also offers a testing period during its 45-day refund policy!
Get CyberGhost VPN for Streaming Now
5. IPVanish – Unblocks US streaming services Anywhere
| Price | $3.75/mo. |
| Website | Ipvanish.com |
Lastly, we have IPVanish. This VPN is a US provider and managed to perform great for streaming when we tested and reviewed its app. It has around 1600+ servers across 75+ countries, with the majority of its coverage within the US.
This US-based VPN unblocked numerous streaming services like HBO Now, Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Video, Disney Plus, and even services outside the US. All results were rendered with great speeds and clear HD quality.
To stream the best and latest content, you can use the IPVanish app on multiple of its supports apps and devices. You can download the app on your Windows, iOS, Android, PS4, macOS, FireTV, Routers, Chromebook, and much more.
To unblock geo-restricted services from abroad, you’re going to need the best security measures, which IPVanish doesn’t fall short of. It incorporates AES 256-bit encryption, a strict no-logging policy, supports OpenVPN/IKEV2 protocols, and IPv6/DNS leak protection.
To test the VPN, IPVanish offers a free trial and refund. Other than that, it allows a successful passageway to unblock international, local, or restricted streaming services.
Get IPVanish for Streaming Now
How to choose a VPN for streaming
You and I both know the best part about watching the latest movies or TV series; especially since you’ve been waiting months or even years to finally watch it.
But, what happens when you’re not able to access the movies or shows that you’ve been longing for, for ages?
For this reason, only the best VPN for streaming will give you all the access you need to streaming platforms worldwide. But, again, choosing a VPN isn’t an easy task. There’s a lot you need to look for, features that you should scout for, before settling with the best VPN.
Here are a few notable features to look for when choosing the best VPN for streaming in 2024. They are:
Server Coverage
Should possess not a large but a wide variety of server locations stretched all around the globe. To unblock certain streaming services from wherever you may be, you’re going to have to connect to the server of the country whose content you’re trying to access.
For instance, if you’re traveling outside Hong Kong, and want to access some of its content, you’re going to need a Hong Kong IP address. The same applies to US, Canadian, or even Australian streaming services.
Bypass geo-blocks or firewall
Apart from accessing content, in order to achieve that, the VPN you go with has to possess certain features that can bypass major geo-blocks.
Fast speeds
Speed is important. The best VPN for streaming needs to render steady download speeds. No one likes buffering or lagging! The minimum download speed for HD streaming is 25 Mbps, and all the VPNs enlisted have provided extremely pleasing test results, which you’ll see in their detailed reviews.
Unthrottled bandwidth
A good VPN always provides unlimited bandwidth. Sometimes your ISP throttles and controls the rate of bandwidth you use a day or in a month. Using the best VPN for streaming, you will never have any download limits.
Device Compatibility
Whether you’re looking to have the best VPN for streaming on TV or on your smartphone, it still needs to be compatible with all the major apps and devices like PC, Mac, and Smart TVs (Apple and Android).
Strong security and privacy
Since trying to access streaming services may pose as a risk, the VPN you choose has to incorporate airtight security features IP/DNS leak protection, with strict privacy policies.
A 24/7 customer support
Live or efficient customer support is very necessary. There are many first-time VPN users that need all the help they can get; having a lot of unfulfilled VPN setup queries.
How to Setup a Streaming VPN on Multiple Devices in 2024
Follow these simple and quick tutorials to setup a streaming VPN on multiple devices in 2024:
[wptabs id=”18201″]Wrapping up
To score the best VPN for streaming automatically means you have access to universal movies, TV shows, documentaries, etc, right at your fingertips.
Not any and every VPN or server are capable of unblocking streaming service, but, luckily all the providers mentioned in my list, (ExpressVPN, Surfshark, NordVPN, IPVanish, and CyberGhost), have managed to unblock some of the most restricted platforms within heavily geo-censored countries while possessing ample enough of servers to give you that access. Choosing one of these will give you the best streaming experience in no time!
FAQs – Best VPN for Streaming Movies & Shows in 2024 with Fast Speeds
Do I need a VPN for streaming in 2024?
Yes, you do need a VPN for streaming in 2024 if you want to access geo-restricted channels without any content limitations. With the best streaming VPN, your IP address will be spoofed and you will be assigned a different IP address that will protect your actual physical location.
Which VPN is best for live streaming?
ExpressVPN is the best VPN for live streaming international shows. Besides ExpressVPN, you can use these 4 VPN providers; Surfshark, NordVPN, CyberGhost and IPVanish.
Will a VPN help streaming?
Yes, a VPN is designed to help you bypass geo-blocks and stream content all around the world. With the best streaming VPN, you can connect to any country server of your choice and get a concealed IP address. It will portray that you are someone who’s accessing the streaming service from the same region that is allowed to stream from. Moreover, a VPN encrypts your web traffic and safe your sensitive information to become the hotbed for the cybercriminals and Wifi-snoopers.
How do I use a VPN for streaming?
You can use a VPN for streaming your favorite media content on your Windows, Android, mac, iOS, Amazon Firestick and etc by following the simple steps. Get a subscription to any robust VPN. (We recommend ExpressVPN which has lightning-fast speeds.) Download and install the VPN app on your device. Connect to a server of your choice. Sign up/log in for a streaming service you wants to; such as HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, Showtime, Hulu, etc. You are all good to stream your favorite shows and movies with the best VPN for streaming in 2024.
What are the best VPNs for streaming on Sports channels?
All 5 providers mentioned in my list (ExpressVPN, Surfshark, NordVPN, CyberGhost, and IPVanish), are also best for accessing sports channels on streaming platforms. With them, you can access the latest news and highlights of sports events worldwide, Live matches, and replays, all at great speeds and HD streaming quality.
Can I use Kodi with a VPN for streaming?
Yes, you can. Kodi is an open-source streaming service, which doesn’t really have dedicated VPN app support. To access it, you’ll have to use only the best VPN for Kodi. However, streaming copyright content from third-party add-ons can create legal issues. And when you know third-party add-ons offer the best and latest content for streaming, you know you need something to make sure you don’t break these copyright laws. A Kodi streaming VPN is best for situations like these. It will not only let you stream copyright content legally but also protect you from online threats and keep you anonymous throughout.
