by Finn Apr 21,2025
Whether you're traveling and eager to watch Netflix or facing ISP throttling, a VPN can be a game-changer. However, not all VPNs are created equal, especially when it comes to speed and unblocking capabilities. Through rigorous testing, we've pinpointed the best VPNs for streaming movies, TV shows, and even blacked-out live sports events.
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 a robust layer of security. It also conceals your IP address, allowing you to browse and stream anonymously while spoofing your location. For instance, if you're overseas and want to access Hulu, you can connect to a U.S. server to obtain a U.S. IP address. The best part? You can use a VPN on your iPhone, PC, or virtually any device. Here are the top VPNs for streaming that we've identified:
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 consistently proven reliable for streaming. Although many VPNs have adopted the fast WireGuard protocol, ExpressVPN's proprietary Lightway protocol boasts even fewer lines of code, which contributes to its superior performance. In our latest tests, we averaged 118 Mbps when connected to ExpressVPN’s servers, surpassing Surfshark (104 Mbps) and IPVanish (84 Mbps). With over 3,000 servers across 105 countries, ExpressVPN provides access to multiple Netflix libraries, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video. Its MediaStreamer (Smart DNS) feature allows streaming on devices that don't support VPN apps, like smart TVs or gaming consoles. As a no-logs VPN with 256-bit AES encryption, it supports up to 8 simultaneous connections and offers excellent 24-hour support.
For a deeper dive into this option, our comprehensive review of ExpressVPN details our experience and explains why it's our top pick for streaming services.
### NordVPN
0Enjoy an impressive blend of speed, unblocking, and security with NordVPN. See it at NordVPN
Product Specifications
PROS
CONS
NordVPN has expanded its network to over 6,000 servers in 111 countries, making it one of the largest VPN networks available. With 2,000 servers in the U.S., it's ideal for accessing Netflix, HBO Max, Hulu, and YouTube TV. NordVPN's NordLynx protocol, built on WireGuard, ensures fast streaming with unlimited bandwidth.
The inclusion of a Smart DNS feature (SmartPlay) enhances its compatibility with various streaming platforms. NordVPN supports up to 10 simultaneous connections and offers a dedicated IP option for an additional $3.69 per month. Operating from Panama, where there are no mandatory data retention laws, NordVPN's no-logs policy was independently audited by Deloitte in December 2023.
### CyberGhost
0With a vast server network and a Windows app featuring gaming-optimized servers, it's ideal for streaming on the go. 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 across 100 countries, with significant coverage in the U.S. (2,000+), Canada (500+), and the UK (1,100+).
CyberGhost's use of the WireGuard protocol and unlimited bandwidth ensures smooth streaming. A dedicated IP can be added for $2.50 per month to bypass blacklisting. With high-end encryption, effective DNS leak prevention, and a no-logs policy, CyberGhost ensures your streaming remains private and secure.
### Surfshark
0An affordable VPN that doesn’t keep identifying logs and uses robust encryption. See it at Surfshark
Product Specifications
PROS
CONS
Surfshark offers excellent speeds, a comprehensive server network, and effective geo-blocking circumvention. Its affordability, especially with one and two-year subscription plans, makes it great value. Surfshark unblocks multiple Netflix libraries, BBC iPlayer, Peacock, and Prime Video, ranking among the fastest VPNs for streaming.
Unlike many VPNs, Surfshark doesn't limit the number of devices you can connect simultaneously. With over 3,000 servers across 100 countries, including 25 U.S. cities, you're likely to find a nearby server for fast connections. As a no-logs provider, Surfshark employs 256-bit AES encryption and includes a kill switch in all its apps.
### Proton VPN
0Proton VPN offers some of the fastest speeds while continuing to expand its server network. See it at Proton VPN
Product Specifications
PROS
CONS
Proton VPN has made significant improvements, growing its network to over 4,000 servers in 90 countries. This makes it highly suitable 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 achieves some of the fastest speeds available, despite its focus on security.
Proton VPN allows up to 10 simultaneous connections and offers additional features like an ad blocker and Secure Core servers for enhanced privacy (though the latter isn't ideal for streaming). Unlike many VPNs, Proton VPN's transparent no-logs policy has been independently audited.
### IPVanish
0High speeds and unlimited bandwidth make IPVanish suitable for both gaming and streaming. See it at IPVanish
Product Specifications
PROS
CONS
IPVanish has made strides in recent years, expanding its network to over 2,400 servers (1,400 in the U.S.) and implementing WireGuard. This makes it more suitable for streaming, successfully unblocking Netflix US, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu. With a global average speed of 84 Mbps, IPVanish offers impressive performance for its price point.
IPVanish simplifies server selection by displaying each server's ping and load within the apps. You can stream securely with 256-bit AES encryption, DNS leak protection, a kill switch, and threat protection. IPVanish doesn't keep logs that can be linked to your identity.
### PrivateVPN
0Respectable speeds for high-resolution streaming. See it at PrivateVPN
Product Specifications
PROS
CONS
PrivateVPN is a lesser-known provider but excels in bypassing streaming site restrictions. With a network of roughly 200 servers spanning over 60 countries, including 12 U.S. cities and three in Canada, PrivateVPN effectively unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, and ITVX.
PrivateVPN's speeds are more than sufficient for high-resolution streaming. Its user-friendly apps and excellent customer support, including direct access to developers and free remote help, make it ideal for beginners. With a genuine no-logs policy and 256-bit AES encryption, PrivateVPN ensures your streaming remains private and secure.
The ability of a VPN to access streaming platforms can fluctuate due to the ongoing battle between VPNs and streaming services. Some VPNs consistently outperform others in this regard. Key factors include your baseline internet speed, the current load on the VPN server, and the distance between the VPN server and your location.
The best VPNs for streaming offer reliable unblocking and consistent connections. Here’s what we considered:
Once you've chosen your streaming VPN, follow these steps to get started:
A VPN typically slows your connection due to encryption and routing through a VPN server. However, the best VPNs for streaming minimize this impact with fast protocols like WireGuard, unlimited bandwidth, and low-load servers, ensuring lag-free streaming. Sometimes, a VPN can even improve your streaming speeds if your ISP is throttling your bandwidth, as it hides your traffic from your ISP.
If your VPN isn’t working with Netflix, start by clearing your browser's cookies to reset your IP address. Not all VPN IP addresses are compatible with Netflix, so try different servers and clear your cookies between attempts. If issues persist, your VPN’s support team can offer specific guidance on which servers work best.
Free VPNs often come with data caps, bandwidth throttling, and fewer servers, making them less reliable for streaming. They may also lack strong encryption and could log your activity for third-party sale. Instead, consider the best VPNs for streaming, many of which offer generous money-back guarantees for a risk-free trial.
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