This list will help you find the best VPN for streaming. Not just streaming, they’d also help you unlock streaming platforms & content that’s not available in your country.
On top of that, you’d also become invisible on the web. Websites wouldn’t be able to track you, and you’d leave no digital footprint.
Do note that I’ve personally used every single VPN that I’ve mentioned here. So, the content here isn’t just what I’ve read or heard others saying but rather my experiences.
Most of these are compatible not just with your computers and phones, but also with TVs and game consoles.
Let’s get started, then.
Why Do You Need VPN for Streaming?
Before we start, let’s address the basics?
Netflix, and most other primary streaming platforms show you only a fraction of the content that’s available on them. You’re only show the content that’s licensed for “your country/region”.
Yes, just because you paid for your streaming service doesn’t mean you get 100% access to their content.
The VPN services listed below will help you unblock many additional content libraries if not 100% of them.
And yes, there are specific VPNs for streaming. Most everyday VPNs aren’t capable of unblocking locked streaming content.
Simply changing your IP address isn’t enough to unblock OTT platforms. Netflix and most other big players have extremely advanced VPN-detection firewalls.
This is why you must use a VPN that has been built keeping this in mind. On top of that, the VPN must also have as little speed reduction as possible. Streaming requires good bandwidth, doesn’t it?
Obviously, these VPNs aren’t only for streaming. In most cases, these are the most advanced VPNs in the industry and offer all the other VPN features as well.
Website: https://nordvpn.com/
Why is NordVPN listed at the top here because..
- Unblocks 6+ Netflix libraries
- Unblocks Hulu, Disney, BBC and most other streaming services
- NordLynx protocol ensures superfast streaming
- Split Tunnelling
- Panama-based
- No bandwidth cap
- Independently verified no log policy
- SmartDNS
- Snooze VPN
- Mobile App & browser extensions
- 6 Simultaneous connections
- Dark web monitor
- Blocks ads/malware and other threats
- Meshnet creation
- 30-day refund policy
NordVPN is the best VPN not just for streaming, but just “the best VPN” in general. I’ll give you more than one reasons why I say so.
Currently, NordVPN can unblock the maximum number of Netflix libraries, these include:
- USA, Japan, Denmark, France, Italy, And many others.
Here’s proof of me accessing Netflix’s Israeli library even though I’ve never been to Israel!
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NordVPN also has one of the largest number of servers on the planet. Its 5300+ servers coupled with the new, much faster protocol- NordLynx make sure there’s no speed throttling whatsoever.
There’s no bandwidth cap either. Stream unlimited.
Not just Netflix, NordVPN is capable of unblocking nearly every other streaming site out there. This includes (but isn’t limited to) Hulu, BBC, Disney and so on.
NordVPN is also one of the most secure and trustworthy VPNs out there. While most other VPNs simply claim that they do not store logs, they’ve been proven to secretly log your IP and actions.
NordVPN on the other hand got its no-log policy verified from an independent third-party! Moreover, it’s based out of Panama. The U.S and other similar nations cannot force it to retain or share data as it’s out of their jurisdiction.
Then, it supports Split Tunnelling. This lets you choose which apps/browsers require the VPN and which you’d like to use without the VPN. You can even use it on its browser extension to allow/disable specific websites from using the VPN.
It also has “Double VPN” which changes your IP address not just once, but twice. There’s the kill-switch which terminates your connection if your VPN connection ever drops.
Your family members may wish to stream at the same time as you, right? NordVPN allows every account to be used on as many as 6 different devices. It also supports your Xbox, Playstation, VR headset, Firestick, Android TV and nearly every other device!
It even has a “dark web monitor”. It scans the dark web and tries to find data leaks containing your credentials/information.
You can even “pause” the VPN for a specific amount of time, auto-resumes once the clock runs out.
The “Meshnet” is its most unique feature. You can create your very own encrypted tunnel and connect to remote devices with full security. You can even use these remote devices to browse the internet without actually physically using those devices. Gaming, remote file access and sharing are some other benefits.
You don’t even need to download NordVPN on your system. You can use it directly on your browser via its Chrome and Firefox extensions.
Finally, the VPN also has in-built ad and malware blockers. NordVPN also has the best support team I’ve ever seen. There’s a live-chat you can connect to 24X7.
Point being, NordVPN in my opinion is the best VPN for streaming. It also costs less than your weekly coffee bill.
Talking of bills, NordVPN despite being cheap, offers a very generous 30-day refund policy!
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- Surfshark
Website: https://surfshark.com/
- Unblock & stream Netflix and most other streaming services
- Unlimited devices
- Impressive speed
- Compatible with most devices
- 2-FA and Ad blocker Supporting
- Obfuscated servers
- RAM-only servers
- Independently verified no-log policy
- Netherlands based
- MultiHop and Bypasser
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Surfshark is actually better than all of other options above or below, if you strictly consider “no. of simultaneous devices”. You can use this VPN for streaming on unlimited number of devices at the same time, from the same account.
Yes, Surfshark is capable of unblocking Netflix and its region-specific libraries. On top of Netflix, it also unblocks Hulu, BBC, Disney+, Hotstar, AbemaTV and many other streaming sites.
The VPN app is compatible with Windows, Linux, MacOS, Android, FireTV, Xbox, Playstation and most other devices.
The VPN also includes an ad blocker known as CleanWeb. Just like NordVPN, it too support “DoubleVPN” but calls it “MultiHop”. The split tunneling feature too is available and is called “Bypasser”. Killswitch? Yes, it’s there.
The VPN is one of the cheapest VPNs out there and comes with a 30-day moneyback policy. It also supports 2-FA, which although not very important with a VPN still adds extra layers of security to your account.
An interesting feature is its cookie-consent blocker. Since it was made mandatory, every new website you visit displays a cookie consent popup, doesn’t it? Surfshark blocks that automatically.
The speed is pretty impressive as it boasts over 3200 servers. It does have a “no log” policy and yes it was publicly and independently audited.
It also uses RAM-only servers. These servers auto-delete your connection data once they’re turned off.
Obfuscation is another feature Surfshark offers. It hides the fact that you’re using a VPN from your ISP/ govt. or any other third-party.
Being a VPN based out of Netherlands, it doesn’t have to comply to mandatory “data retention” laws either.
Unfortunately, the support isn’t that great. There’s no 24X7 live-chat on the site.
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Atlas VPN
Website: https://atlasvpn.com/
- Built for streaming
- Unlimited simultaneous devices
- Safeswap, Multihop
- WireGuard
- Split Tunneling, Kill switching
- Data breach monitor
- “No log” policy
- Live-chat only for paid members
Atlas VPN is another VPN you can use for streaming. In fact, it uses “4K streaming” as one of its primary selling points. Each account lets you use the VPN on unlimited no. of devices at the same time.
It has this unique “Safeswap” feature. It lets you access the internet from multiple IP addresses at the same time! No, it’s not the same as DoubleVPN or MultiHop. Safeswap keeps changing your IP address continuously, without you having to disconnect/reconnect. They’re basically like rotating IPs.
By using WireGuard® protocol, it ensures you stay safe without compromising on speed.
It does have a malware blocker which keeps you safe. Split tunneling too is available. Multihop+ is another feature that changes your IP multiple times instead of just once.
It also has the data breach monitor. It scans the web making sure your data isn’t up for sale in some forum on the web.
The “no log” policy obviously exists. Does have a kill-switch. A live-chat does exist but it’s only for paid members. Free members are helped via e-mail.
Private Internet Access
Website: https://www.privateinternetaccess.com/
- Open-source
- WireGuard® (for fast streaming)
- Best split tunneling features
- Ad blocker, Kill-switch
- Dedicated IP, Supports most devices
- 24X7 live-chat, 7-day free trial (iOS and Android)
- 30-day refund policy
I’ll be honest, PIA isn’t my first choice because it’s based out of the USA. However, it’s on this list for two reasons.
First, it does unblock Netflix libraries and other streaming services. Secondly, it’s open-source. That means, everything the company claims of being or offering can be independently verified by anyone who understands code.
Then, it uses the WireGuard® protocol. WireGuard is one of the fastest protocols in the VPN industry offering you the speed required for HD streaming. I’ll be honest; the speed isn’t the best I’ve seen, however, is enough as far as streaming goes.
PIA offers one of the best Split Tunneling features. You can choose which apps/browsers to exclude from the VPN. However, it also has “inverse” Split Tunneling which lets you choose a handful of apps and only those will use the VPN. It also allows specifying IPs so they can or can’t use the VPN.
It also includes the ad & malware blocker that you may like. The kill switch isn’t missing either.
Just like NordVPN, PIA too has an optional dedicated IP you can pay for. Makes the experience much smoother when on stricter sites.
As far as devices go, Windows, macOS, Linux, Android are supported, browser extensions too are available.
It does offer 24X7 live-chat on the site. The cheapest plan start at $2.03/month. There’s even a 7-day free trial plan for its Android and iOS apps. Additionally, you get a 30-day moneyback guarantee on all plans.
ExpressVPN
Website: https://www.expressvpn.com/
- Stream Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Youtube and everything else.
- Unblocks 5+ Netflix libraries.
- 5 simultaneous devices
- Independently audited “no log” policy
- Kill-switch
- Lightway protocol (for fast streaming)
- Mobile apps & browser extensions
- Compatible with most devices & OS.
- Cryptocurrency payments
- 24X7 live-chat
ExpressVPN is another VPN for streaming that can unblock access to most streaming services. These include Youtube, Netflix, Hulu, Disney+ etc.
As for Netflix libraries, it can unblock U.S, Canada, Japan, Netherlands, Italy etc. Unfortunately though, it doesn’t have a malware blocker.
It does let as many as 5 devices and stream at the same time. Split Tunnelling too is available which will let you choose which apps should use the VPN connection and which shouldn’t.
It’s obviously secure. The VPN has been independently audited by two firms- PwC and Cure53. It was found both times that it truly doesn’t store logs and the “no log policy” is indeed strict.
It does have a kill switch that auto-terminates your connection in case your VPN connection drops. It does have a “threat blocker” which makes sure connection to malicious websites is blocked automatically.
It uses the Lightway protocol which is a much faster and secure protocol than the other available options with ExpressVPN. This is another aspect that makes ExpressVPN a streaming VPN.
It’s compatible with nearly every device and OS out there. Mobile apps as well and browser extensions are available as well.
Each ExpressVPN account can be used on as many as 5 devices simultaneously. It does support payments via Cryptocurrencies.
Finally, its support is impressive as well. You get 24X7 support via the live-chat on the site.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are a few questions you may be asking about the best VPNs for streaming:
Is using VPNs to stream legal?
Yes. You may be using a VPN just to bypass ISP speed throttling, or for added security to your connection. A lot of people use VPNs even to browse already unlocked content.
Is using a VPN to stream “region-specific” content legal?
Well, it’s more of a grey area. By streaming content that’s locked in your region you may be violating a few laws. However, as long as you do not use the videos for commercial purposes or display them publicly, you should be fine.
Can I be caught if I stream using VPNs?
Not if you use a reputed VPN e.g. NordVPN or ExpressVPN. These VPNs got their “no log” policies independently verified. Hence, it’s established that they do not store logs. So, they can never share your real IP address with a third-party even if they wanted to.
Which OTT platforms can I unblock?
There’s no specific number or type. You can unblock pretty much any and all OTT platforms. Of course, not 100% content libraries of these platforms are unblocked, that would depend on each specific VPN.
Is there a free VPN for streaming?
No, for multiple reasons. First, almost no free VPN can successfully bypass any of the top OTT restrictions. Secondly, those aren’t safe. They’d most probably log your IP and activities and later share it with third-parties. Third, I’ve used over 30 free VPNs in the past 10 years, every single one of them has been painfully slow.
Do I need special steps to stream using a VPN?
No. If your VPN is capable of streaming, you simply need to connect to a server. There are no extra steps/configurations required.
Legal Disclaimer
Using VPNs is legal, but not always. There are countries where VPNs are completely banned. Similarly, some OTT platforms may have strict policies against unblocking regional content or using a VPN.
You must ascertain the legality and consequences of your actions. This article, or its creators in no way can be held responsible for any of your actions or their consequences.
Conclusion:
So, I’m sure you’ve found what you came here for.
If you ask me, I’ll say just go with NordVPN. It offers the maximum features & security and costs less than most other options on this list.
ExpressVPN obviously is another apt choice. Not saying the other VPNs here don’t work. They totally do. However, NordVPN and ExpressVPN are in a league of their own.
Do pay attention to the copyright laws. Breaking any laws would be solely your own responsibility. If you agree to that, pick any VPN for streaming from this list and you’re golden.
