The best streaming VPN in 2024

Man on a sofa streaming TV shows on a laptop via a VPN
(Image credit: Shutterstock)

When you're looking to be entertained, chances are you boot up a streaming platform. But, you may be missing out on a whole world of content by not using one of the best streaming VPNs to unlock geo-located content from across the world.

If you want to unblock everything you want to watch, you'll have to use one of the best VPNs, as not every VPN provider has the ability to unblock streaming platforms. Thankfully, you won't have to test them out for yourself, as we at Tom's Guide have already done it. That's right, we put VPN providers to the test to ensure they can unblock streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and beyond.

All the VPNs on this page are capable of unblocking both regional and global streaming services. Read on for an in-depth analysis of the top 5 streaming VPNs, or check out my top three below.

My top 3 VPNs for streaming

1. NordVPN – the very best streaming VPN

1. NordVPN – the very best streaming VPN
NordVPN is my top choice of streaming VPN, and in my testing it unblocked every site I tested it with. combined with speeds of over 950 Mbps, you can get access to the content you want, wherever you are, without any frustrating buffering. Prices start at $2.99 per month, and there's also a 30-day money-back guarantee in case you don't like it.

2. Surfshark – the best cheap streaming VPN

2. Surfshark – the best cheap streaming VPN
Surfshark is the perfect choice if you're on a budget but don't want to compromise on quality. It's ever faster than NordVPN, and it's apps are simple and intuitive. Prices start from $1.99 per month, and again, you'll have a 30-day money-back guarantee backing you up.

3. ExpressVPN – the best streaming VPN for beginners

3. ExpressVPN – the best streaming VPN for beginners
ExpressVPN is another quality streaming VPN, and it's perfect for beginners who want powerful but simple apps that can get you connected in one click. Prices are higher than NordVPN, at $4.99 per month, but it's reliable for streaming and delivers rock-solid privacy. It also has a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Recent updates

In my most recent update, Surfshark has taken second place from ExpressVPN thanks to its better value, marginally better streaming performance in my latest round of testing in September 2024, and the fact that the kill switch issue I identified in my last review has been fixed. I've also added information on how we test streaming VPNs here at Tom's Guide, providing you with even more clarity to help you choose.

The best streaming VPNs today

Why you can trust Tom's Guide Our writers and editors spend hours analyzing and reviewing products, services, and apps to help find what's best for you. Find out more about how we test, analyze, and rate.

NordVPN: the best streaming VPN available

A look at NordVPN on various devices

(Image credit: NordVPN)

1. NordVPN

The best streaming VPN that's also hot on security

Available on: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, routers | Server locations: 140+ in 111 countries | Streaming services unblocked: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, ITVX, C4, 9Now, 10 play | Maximum devices supported: 10 | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Support: 24/7 live chat, knowledgebase

Excellent streaming performance
Reliable kill switch
Excellent speeds
Tons of server locations
Divisive mobile interface
Subscribe if:

✅ You want a VPN to stream Netflix: NordVPN is, hands down, the best choice for streaming HD or 4K Netflix content from anywhere in the world.

✅ You want the perfect quality-cost combo: NordVPN delivers excellent performance in terms of speed, security, and unblocking capabilities for a good price.

✅ You like to stream local websites: with security as its strongest suite, NordVPN will safeguard your device against phishing and malware threats from local websites.

Avoid if:

❌ You’re looking for a simple interface: NordVPN's map-based interface isn't the most intuitive – if you want the simplest of apps, I recommend ExpressVPN.

Bottom line: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

NordVPN is a perfectly balanced streaming VPN that ensures both accessibility and security at a reliably high speed. It unblocked everything I tested it with on the first attemp in my last round of testing, and its privacy features are also class-leading.

Not only does NordVPN top the list as the best VPN service overall, it's also the best streaming VPN. In my NordVPN review, I found that its excellent speeds, great server spread and unblocking power makes it practically perfect as a streaming VPN.

As streaming services do try to crack down VPN use, with constant updates designed to prevent unblocking geo-locked content, VPN providers have got to get smart to get around these blocks. Thankfully, NordVPN stays ahead of the game for almost every streaming service you could want to use. In my testing, it unblocked every streaming service I threw at it on the first try, including Netflix, iPlayer, Prime Video, Disney+, YouTube, and many more.

On top of unblocking content, NordVPN also makes sure that your streaming experience is effortless thanks to its handy SmartPlay feature. This is especially useful if you want to stream in HD as it combines Smart DNS with your base VPN connection, allowing for smooth, fast streaming while effortlessly getting around both geo-blocks and any blocks streaming services have on VPNs.

If you're loyal to just one streaming platform, NordVPN has you covered here as it tops the list of my top Netflix VPN recommendations. This is down to its ability to effortlessly bypasses geo-restrictions and get you into tons of global libraries, including the U.K., U.S., Canada, Australia, and Japan.

When it comes to speed, NordVPN impresses, topping out at over 950 Mbps in my testing. Plus, you can also use your subscription on up to 10 devices (recently upped from a stingy six) at a time, which should be sufficient if you’re looking for a streaming VPN for your whole family.

If privacy matters to you as much as streaming, NordVPN is great in this area, too. It has special obfuscated servers that enhance privacy by making it seem as though you aren't using a VPN, even though you are.

Nord’s kill switch is pretty flawless, in that it’s very reliable and doesn’t allow any leaks if activated. Additional security options include a dedicated IP address, Onion Over VPN and the antivirus-style Threat Protection Pro system. Available on the higher "Plus" and "Ultra" subscription tiers, Threat Protection Pro automatically deals with suspicious links, malware and phishing scams before you even notice them.

The only place where NordVPN does falter a little is its apps. Its mobile app interface is overall less intuitive than ExpressVPN's and Surfshark's, despite having a similar set of features and being similar to its desktop site. With this being said, NordVPN does provide support articles and explainer guides, as well as having excellent 24/7 live chat support, to help you out should you run into any issues when trying to access the content of your choice.

If all of this fits your expectations, try NordVPN with its 30-day money-back policy. If you don’t like it, just cancel within the first month, and you’ll get a 100% refund.

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NordVPN test results
FeatureCommentsRating
DesignGenerally useful interface but might seem a little crowded for some users ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useThough simple to use, the map-like design might not work for everyone ⭐⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceOne of the fastest with an average speed of 950Mbps on NordLynx⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingEffortlessly unblocks most content streaming platforms⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyStrong encryption with additional features like Threat Protection for safe streaming⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer supportReliable 24/7 customer support⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PriceProvides ample value for the price.⭐⭐⭐⭐

Surfshark: the best cheap VPN for streaming

Surfshark on a variety of devices

(Image credit: Surfshark)

2. Surfshark

Bargain provider that's great for streaming

Available on: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux (GUI), routers | Server locations: 143 in 100 countries | Streaming services unblocked: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, ITVX, C4, 9Now, 10 play | Maximum devices supported: Unlimited | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Support: 24/7 live chat, knowledgebase

Class-leading connection speeds
24/7 Live chat support
Excellent value for money
Use it on as many devices as you want
Not quite as customizable as some rival;s
Subscribe if:

✅ You need unlimited simultaneous connections: one Surfshark subscription is enough to cover the streaming needs of all your friends and family members.

✅ You're looking for the best budget VPN: for the price, Surfshark is an unbeatable streaming VPN that can unblock just about anything you want.

✅ You want a fast VPN: Surfshark is one of the fastest VPNs, thanks to its WireGuard tunneling protocol, offering a lag and buffering-free streaming experience.

Avoid if:

You like to customize your experience: while Surfshark certainly isn't limited in terms of features, rivals like Private Internet access and Proton VPN offer more in-depth options.

You’re using older versions of Windows: Windows versions below 8.1 do not receive Surfshark updates, and the 7-day trial you get on mobile isn't available for Windows.

Bottom line: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

Surfshark provides unlimited simultaneous connections, extraordinary speed, and value for money, along with solid security measures like RAM-only servers. Just like NordVPN, it unblocked every streaming service I tested it with, making it a great budget alternative.

Surfshark consistently reminds us that low price does not have to mean low quality. In my Surfshark review, I found that it performed excellently when it comes to speed and unblocking. This means it's a great streaming VPN to use as it unblocks streaming services in the US, UK, Canada, Australia and more, unblocking Netflix, Amazon Video, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, Disney+, 10 Play, and 9Now.

If you, like many people, like to stream content across a number of different devices, Surfshark has you covered here. Unlike other VPN providers, like NordVPN and ExpressVPN, Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections. This means that you'll be able to stream using Surfshark across all the devices in your household with just one Surfshark subscription.

Surfshark also has a GPS spoofing feature which allows you to get secure access to content from across the globe by coordinating your current location to that of your chosen VPN server. This means that even if some apps request your physical location before granting access, you will be covered.

In my testing, Surfshark's speeds maxed out our testing at over 950 Mbps, making it the fastest VPN on the market. Additionally, it achieved the fastest OpenVPN speed on test right now at 640 Mbps. These high speeds mean that you can stream in 4k, safe in the knowledge that your VPN won't slow you down. Plus, if you want to download content from your favorite streaming service, you won't be held back here, either.

Surfshark’s RAM-only servers ensure you’re kept extra safe online. In short, this means that the servers that you connect to store absolutely no data about you or your activity. While ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and many other VPNs also only use RAM-only servers, it’s definitely a big green tick. In fact you don't even have to give streaming services your email address when you sign up, Surfshark's Alternative ID feature creates a random temporary email address that comes through to your actual address.

In my testing, I found Surfshark excels as one of the best Fire Stick VPNs since it has a custom app for the Amazon Fire TV. It's simple to use, which is perfect for beginners, but there's a fair number of settings to tweak, too. In practice, it’s one of the easier VPNs to use on Fire Stick.

Despite its many, many other great features, undoubtedly the biggest draw for Surfshark is its price. Usually less than $2.50 per month, this price has been dropped to $1.99 per month thanks to Surfshark's Black Friday promotion. With its consistently great performance in our tests, there's no question why it's rated as the best cheap VPN.

You get a 7-day free trial for your Android, iOS, and Mac, and if you’re still not 100% sure that this VPN is cut out for you, there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee. Combined with that bargain price, Surfshark's an excellent streaming VPN that should be on your list.

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Surfshark test results
FeatureCommentsRating
DesignMinimalistic, clean, and intuitive design ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useBeginner-friendly and easy to understand⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceSeriously impressive speeds⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingGreat at unblocking streaming apps and getting around censorship⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyVery reliable privacy and security suite⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer supportDecent 24/7 customer support and tons of help articles⭐⭐⭐⭐
PriceCheap VPN with excellent value for money⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

ExpressVPN: the best streaming VPN for beginners

ExpressVPN running on a range of devices

3. ExpressVPN

A great VPN for streaming – and everything else

Available on: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, routers | Server locations: 160 in 105 countries | Streaming services unblocked: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, ITVX, C4, 9Now, 10 play | Maximum devices supported: 8 | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Support: 24/7 live chat, knowledgebase

Unrivalled streaming access
Excellent 24/7 customer support
Stream on any device
Top-quality apps
Previously suffered some minor issues with Netflix
Subscribe if:

✅ You want a VPN that excels in privacy: ExpressVPN ensures class-leading privacy with a built-in password manager, AES 256-bit encryption, and a kill switch.

✅ You need a straightforward streaming VPN: with an auto-connect feature, 24/7 customer support, and online tutorials, you’ll find it easy to run ExpressVPN even if you aren’t tech-savvy.

✅ You use multiple devices for streaming: the VPN is compatible with almost all operating systems and devices, including Android, iOS, Microsoft, and even smart TVs and gaming consoles.

Avoid if:

❌ You want a Linux app: you can install ExpressVPN on a Linux device, but you won’t get a graphical user interface (GUI).

❌ You want your VPN to have multi-hop servers: if you want an additional layer of security that rests in a multi-hop or Double VPN, you’re better off with NordVPN.

Bottom line: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

ExpressVPN is an ideal choice if you’re looking for a fast and easy-to-use VPN with servers all over the world for limitless content unblocking. Its wide coverage, 360-degree security, strong unblocking capabilities, and 24/7 customer support make for a smooth streaming experience.

If you want a VPN that's easy to use yet still powerful enough to unblock whatever streaming service you want to use, then ExpressVPN is a great choice. In my ExpressVPN review, I found that ExpressVPN's speed, security and international coverage made it one of the best streaming VPNs.

I won't ignore the elephant in the room – ExpressVPN is more expensive than the other VPNs on this list. However, it does offer features that other VPNs don't, including its streaming-focused MediaStreamer tool which allows you to stream content on devices that do not allow VPN connections, like Smart TVs or gaming consoles. This tool also spoofs your location, allowing you access geo-locked content.

You get seamless unblocking of Netflix, iPlayer, Amazon Prime, YouTube, and more – all the more impressive when you know these streaming services are constantly trying to block VPNs. Plus, connection speeds are reliably fast, so even streaming in 4K and HDR shouldn't be an issue. The only negative is that in one of my tests, I had to change server to access a certain Netflix location. This is the tiniest of criticisms, but an issue I did not experience with NordVPN or Surfshark.

ExpressVPN boasts 3,200 servers spread across 105 countries in 160 different locations. While this may not be as high as NordVPN’s 6,000+ servers, I’ve never had buffering issues while streaming – every server is super reliable and delivers good speeds across the board.

One of ExpressVPN's best features is the fact that the apps are very easy to use. This makes it perfect for beginners and those who just want the simplest experience possible. What's more, the apps are all exactly the same no matter what device you use, so there's no learning curve.

ExpressVPN provides the best coverage in U.S. and Europe, but it's pertinent to note that it has more global locations than many of its rivals, with 27 in Asia-Pacific locations alone. Fans of Asian content and K-dramas needn’t look any further.

ExpressVPN also stands out as one of the most secure VPNs, due to its leak-free DNS, industry-standard AES-256 encryption and multiple layers of privacy, as well as its verified no-logs policy. This means you can stream to your heart's content without anyone snooping on this, or any other, online activity. Turn on its kill switch to ensure that you're not left vulnerable to detection if your VPN connection cuts out. In my testing, the kill switch did not allow any leaks and remained stable.

Overall, ExpressVPN is a fantastic VPN for accessing streaming content. If you want a VPN to trust your life with and aren't put off by the pricing, I'd heartily recommend Express as a superb alternative to NordVPN.

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ExpressVPN test results
FeatureCommentsRating
DesignSimple, navigable design that’s easy on your eyes and straightforward to understand⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useBeginner-friendly, little to no expertise needed⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceReliable and very fast, although some others deliver higher peak speeds.⭐⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingServers in 160 locations and 105 countries ensure limitless content⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyTop-notch security with 256-bit AES encryption⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer supportExpert assistance is available 24/7⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PriceMore expensive than other options ⭐⭐⭐

Proton VPN interface showing on a laptop and smartphone

(Image credit: Proton VPN)

The best of the rest

4. Proton VPN

Great streaming VPN with free-to-try option

Available on: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux (GUI), routers | Server locations: 119 in 91 countries | Streaming services unblocked: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, ITVX, C4, 9Now, 10 play | Maximum devices supported: 10 | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Support: Email, knowledgebase

First-class Netflix unblocking
Good speeds
Powerful, secure apps
Relatively expensive
Free version can't stream
Subscribe if:

✅ You want a VPN to set and forget: Proton VPN’s always-on feature will ensure that you’re always connected.

✅ You value a trustworthy VPN provider: As an open-source platform, anybody is free to check out Proton VPN’s code. Also, the platform has been independently audited.

✅ You have a number of devices to connect: Proton VPN allows you to stream on up to 10 devices simultaneously with the same VPN plan, making it ideal for most families.

Avoid if:

❌ You’re looking for a free streaming VPN: while Proton VPN’s free version works perfectly for normal use with access to three locations, rival PrivadoVPN free is a much better choice for streaming.

❌ You like the idea of 24/7 live support: the company's live chat support is only available between 9 and 5 on weekdays.

Bottom line: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

Proton VPN, with features like the always-on VPN, a unique Stealth protocol especially for streaming, and an open-source platform, sets the bar quite high for a trustworthy streaming VPN. However, it can't quite match the very best when it comes to usability.

You may have heard of super-secure email service Proton Mail, and its VPN offering is no different. However, Proton VPN is not only super secure, but it's also a great streaming VPN. In my Proton VPN review, I found that the provider understands why you would want to use a VPN for streaming, and builds your experience based on this.

Proton's security-focused build is actually a real boon when it comes to streaming, as this enables it to get around both VPN blocks and content blocks, easily unblocking content across the world and streaming sites including Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video.

Proton doesn’t disappoint when it comes to keeping you safe online, either. Alongside essentials like AES-256 encryption and an effective kill switch, you’ll also be able to use Proton’s Stealth protocol which allows you to bypass VPN blocks by making the VPN traffic look like regular traffic, thereby allowing access to even the most privacy-unfriendly countries.

As of November 2024, Proton VPN has over 9,100 servers, outmatching rivals like NordVPN, ExpressVPN and Surfshark. Proton has continuously grown its server network this year, with this trend set to continue. While it may not quite match PIA's 20,000+ server network, realistically a 3,000-strong server network is enough to deliver seamless connections at all times.

If you’re someone who just can't stand buffering, you'll be relieved that Proton VPN uses a unique VPN Accelerator technology, turned on by default, that can amp up your server speed by 400%. No other renowned VPN provider has officially accepted using this next-gen technology, making it all the more special.

However, I’ve not noticed any significant speed drops when not using the VPN Accelerator, and peak speeds in excess of 950 Mbps when using WireGuard are among the elite of the fastest performing VPNs.

Auto-reconnect is a nifty feature that will re-establish connection in the unlikely case of the current connection failing. Also, note that the always-on VPN feature is permanently activated on Proton VPN’s iOS VPN app, but Android VPN users will have to turn it on manually.

With Proton VPN, you can stream anything completely anonymously. The company clearly states that there’s no recording or tracking of your activities, and there are even Bitcoin and cash payment options for extra privacy.

Proton VPN is usually a bit on the pricey side (the standard price is $4.99 per month for the two-year plan, but its Black Friday deal has pushed this price down to $2.99 for a two-year contract. It’s also worth noting that Proton offers one of the best free VPNs. Be aware, though, that the free service isn’t any good for streaming.

Overall, Proton VPN is a great privacy-focused streaming VPN – and you’ll even get a 30-day money-back guarantee to make sure it works for you.

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Proton VPN test results
FeatureCommentsRating
DesignIntuitive and dynamic design with the dark mode as a standout⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useSome desktop features may be too technical for regular users to understand⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceProton has seriously upped its game here, now boasting speeds of 950 Mbps with WireGuard⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
UnblockingUnblocks most sites on the paid subscription⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyState-of-the-art security with Swiss law protection and an independent audit⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer supportDecent response time with countless guides⭐⭐⭐⭐
PriceNot the most budget-friendly, but our promotional price helps in that regard⭐⭐⭐⭐

PIA on a range of devices

(Image credit: Private Internet Access)

5. Private Internet Access

Tons of configuration and great streaming performance

Available on: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux (GUI), routers | Server locations: 150+ in 91 countries | Streaming services unblocked: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, ITVX, C4, 9Now, 10 play | Maximum devices supported: 10 | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Support: 24/7 live chat, knowledgebase

Great breadth of streaming sites
Plenty of customization
Huge number of servers
Middling speeds
Apps aren't quite as polished as rivals'
Subscribe if:

✅ You need access to more servers and regions: PIA has thousands of servers across 91 countries, with a server in every U.S. state. No other VPN provider comes anywhere near it.

✅ You value a proven track record of security: PIA has proven its no-logs policy in court twice, which stands as a testament to its commitment to user privacy.

✅ You want a budget-friendly VPN: PIA’s annual plan is cheaper than most VPNs at just $3.33/month, and the three-year plan is even better at around $2/month, making it ideal for a long-term commitment.

Avoid if:

❌ You want a super fast VPN: there are better choices in the market in terms of speed, like NordVPN, Surfshark or Proton VPN.

You're new to VPNs: PIA is absolutely jam-packed with settings, features and customizability. But that may be quite intimidating if you haven't used VPNs before or you just want a plug and play option.

Bottom line: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

Private Internet Access is one of the best bargain deals that give you a highly configurable and secure VPN for streaming your favorite shows from 91 countries without worrying about geo-restrictions. However, for full coverage of almost every streaming site out there, one of our top 3 will be a better pick.

Private Internet Access is an established VPN provider for a reason, and it holds its own when it comes to streaming, too. In my Private Internet Access review, I found it could unblock streaming services from Netflix and BBC iPlayer to Disney Plus and YouTube, making it one of the best streaming VPNs.

In fact, it's only sitting fifth on this list thanks to the strength of the competition. I found that unblocking some sites, like Amazon Prime Video's U.S. library and the Australian 10 Play service, proved inconsistent. However, for the vast majority of sites, it’s smooth sailing.

For those who like to torrent as well as stream, PIA is one of the best torrenting VPNs. This is in part due to its easily configurable settings, including server location, encryption level, port forwarding and others. This allows you to optimize the VPN for a superior streaming experience with reduced latency and enhanced security.

Speaking of servers, PIA boasts one of the biggest server networks I've seen, with 20,000+ servers. This gives it a great range of options on its server locations list, which means you can pick the very best server for wherever you want to connect to and stream content from, no matter where you are.

Still, it can be a little annoying to shuffle between regular applications and the browser in between your binge-watching sessions. In that case, you can enable the Bypass List functionality and specify the streaming websites for which you don't want to use the VPN. This isn’t unique to PIA, but it’s a very well-implemented form of split tunnelling.

While it doesn’t have the highest speeds (peaking in our speed tests at 436 Mbps), PIA is still decent enough for streaming your favorite shows without interruption, even in 4K. Speed might not be PIA's strongest suit, but security is, and it’s just as important an aspect as speed for any streamer that goes beyond the popular global websites for content.

For this, it has an excellent kill switch. Also, the company has an independently audited no-logging policy, which it has proven twice in court. It also releases quarterly transparency reports to prove that it does not release user data to anyone, meaning that you can be assured that your personal data is not going anywhere.

More important for many, though, will be the price. As the cheapest provider on this list, it's an absolute steal considering the power under the hood. So, if you're looking for a bargain VPN for streaming, PIA may well be the one for you.

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Private Internet Access test results
FeatureCommentsRating
DesignLoads of customization options, can be a bit overwhelming⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useGreat for tech-savvy users, not too beginner-friendly⭐⭐⭐
PerformanceDecent speeds but falls behind the industry heavyweights like NordVPN and Surfshark⭐⭐⭐
Unblocking60,000+ servers in 91 countries for smooth and fast content unblocking⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacyBest-in-class encryption with a proven no-log policy⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer supportAdequate resources, plenty of guides, and a contact form to reach the team⭐⭐⭐⭐
PriceOne of the cheapest VPNs, all the more ideal for the long term.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

How to choose a quality streaming VPN

When choosing a streaming VPN, there are three things to prioritize – reliable access to plenty of streaming sites, a decent variety of servers, and excellent speeds. Our top pick NordVPN combines all these with a clean, polished interface that makes streaming overseas content super simple, all alongside excellent privacy.

Not all VPNs have that combination, and it's worth mentioning that in mid-2021 Netflix cracked down hard on VPN use. Subsequently we saw almost every provider begin to struggle, although the best have now rallied and are performing well.

Do note that most streaming sites forbid the use of VPNs, and threaten deactivation of your account. However, in our experience, we've never heard of this ever happening. If you're comfortable with that, then we suggest using one of our top five VPNs.

How we test streaming VPNs

When it comes to our advice on the best streaming VPNs, we don't just take marketing claims at their word. All of our judgments are based on our own extensive in-house testing.

For a streaming VPN, the biggest factor is obviously how well a product performs when it comes to accessing and unblocking streaming services, and this is something we test regularly. As you can see in the table below, we test each VPN with the major streaming sites from a number of servers. Because of the fickle nature of using a VPN on Netflix, we check each month to make sure or top picks are providing appropriate service.

Of course, VPNs are about more than just streaming and we also test their performance in other areas including their privacy and security performance. For more information read how we test VPNs.

What VPN works where on which streaming service?

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Header Cell - Column 0 NordVPNExpressVPNSurfsharkProton VPNPIA
NetflixWorking (UK, US, CA, AU, JP)Working (UK, US, CA, AU, JP)Working (UK, US, CA, AU, JP)Working (UK, US, CA, AU, JP)Working (US, UK, AU, CA, JP)
Amazon PrimeWorkingWorkingWorkingWorkingWorking
YouTubeWorkingWorkingWorkingWorkingWorking
Disney PlusWorkingWorkingWorkingWorkingWorking
BBC iPlayerWorkingWorkingWorkingWorkingWorking
ITVXWorkingWorkingWorkingWorkingWorking
Channel 4WorkingWorkingWorkingWorkingWorking
9NowWorkingWorkingWorkingWorkingWorking
10 PlayWorkingWorkingWorkingWorkingWorking

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Streaming VPN FAQs

What is the best streaming VPN?

We rate NordVPN as the best streaming VPN on the market. It delivers excellent speeds, unrivalled content unblocking performance, and has servers in just about every country you could ask for. What's more, you'll get a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can test the service risk-free for a month.

How does a streaming VPN work?

Every VPN works in the same way – it diverts your device's connection away from your internet provider's and instead uses one its own servers. Doing this means your ISP can't see what you're viewing, and an added bonus is that VPN server traffic is much more encrypted than the naked connection from your router.

A streaming VPN can get you access to overseas content by rerouting your connection through one its servers in a foreign country. By doing that, to any website it seems like you're in that country, and subsequently you'll be able to access any and all content that's usually only available if you're physically in that area.

What can I use a streaming VPN for?

Wondering how to use a VPN for streaming? Well, you're either abroad and want to watch familiar but now geo-blocked content form back home, or you're at home and want to watch geo-blocked content from abroad.

Whatever your reasons, there's a huge amount of content on offer that you can only get with a streaming VPN. Netflix has a vast amount of content that's only available in certain areas, and services like Hulu and BBC iPlayer are only available in one country.

However, there's more to be had if you're a sports fan. If you're away from home and don't want to miss a game that's being shown on domestic TV, you can access that through a streaming VPN. The same goes if you're a paying customer of a sports streaming service – just turn on your streaming VPN, log in to your streaming service and watch.

Computer with logo: Netflix , HBO MAX, APPLE TV PLUS, NETFLIX, PRIME VIDEO are online video streaming services

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What are the best TV streaming services?

With so many TV streaming services to choose from, it can feel like an impossible task to choose the best one for you. In addition to dedicated streaming services like Netflix, Disney Plus, Hulu and Amazon Prime Video, every big global TV network now also has their own streaming platform – think the likes of Peacock in the U.S., BBC iPlayer and ITVX in the U.K., SBS On Demand and 9Now in Australia, and Paramount Plus around the world.

Our best streaming services guide ranks HBO's Max service as the very best you can get at the moment, especially now that it has added a world of Discovery Plus content, too. Hulu and Netflix make up the top three.

But the truth is that the 'best' will depend solely on your personal watching preferences. If you're a keen sports watcher, something like DAZN will suit you better. Reality show lovers may want a piece of the Hayu action, and anime fans will prefer Crunchyroll. The beauty of the model right now is that you can pay monthly, dipping in and out of platforms as and when you need them.

What is IPTV?

IPTV stands for Internet Protocol Television and it means any service on which you stream content online.

IPTV stands apart from traditional ways of consuming TV, movies and live sport at home. You access it via the internet instead of through an aerial, satellite or cable.

Although you may be unfamiliar with the abbreviation itself, you'll have heard of a wide variety of the biggest IPTV providers. Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney Plus and Apple TV Plus are all examples of IPTV providers.

In recent years, big networks around the world like NBC (Peacock), CBS (Paramount+), the BBC (BBC iPlayer) and SBS (SBS On Demand) have all launched IPTV services. While OTT providers like Sling TV and Fubo are available in the U.S. as alternatives for cord cutters.

There's a growing market for specific IPTV services for live sport, with the likes of DAZN, Triller, BeIn Sport and Kayo all examples. And IPTV subscriptions dedicated to special interests are also popping up – Wow Presents Plus, for example, which streams everything RuPaul related.

It's worth noting that IPTV may also be used to describe illegal streams that have become particularly popular with sports fans.

Disclaimer

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example: 1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service). 2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad. We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

VPN Editor

Mo is VPN Editor at Tom's Guide. Day-to-day he oversees guides on the best VPNs, privacy, and cybersecurity content, and also undertakes independent testing of VPN services to ensure his recommendations are accurate and up to date. When he's not getting stuck into the depths of a VPN you've never heard of, you'll find him working on his Peugeot 205 GTi or watching Peep Show instead of finally putting up those shelves.

With contributions from