Best VPN for Streaming Movies & Shows in 2021 | Top VPN Service

Online streaming…what do we want? Great speeds, HD quality, unlimited bandwidth, privacy, and…latest movies! How do we get it? Using the best VPN for streaming to access limited content from within your country or while traveling abroad! Read on!

Streaming – the bitter truth

To jump straight to the point; regardless of wanting to binge on local or international streaming platforms from within your country or abroad, the best way to get smooth access is through the best VPN for streaming.

Streaming movies or TV shows have ultimately become a part of our daily lives as an epic form of entertainment. Some may just need to access local TV shows from back home while traveling abroad, while others need access to international streaming services from the US or UK.

However, the sad reality of it all still comes down to you not being able to access every streaming platform that you set your heart on. This is mainly due to geo-restrictions, censorship blocks, or copyright laws.

The only way to safely access streaming services worldwide is with the help of a VPN that is strong enough to give you that kind of access.

The best VPN for streaming in 2021

Now that you’ve gone through the criterion on which these 5 VPN providers were chosen, below you’ll find abridged reviews on each provider, showing you exactly why they made it to the top of my list for streaming VPNs. We start with:

1. Surfshark – Overall the best VPN for streaming

Price	$2.49/mo.
Website	Surfshark.com

Surfshark is known as one of the big league VPNs which took the industry to a new level. When put to the test, it unblocked multiple streaming services that are popular worldwide; providing around 3200+ servers in 65 countries.

That’s a lot of location coverage for you to choose from! Some of these services include Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, Kodi, and others.

The Surfshark speeds were great throughout, recorded when I tested and reviewed the Surfshark app. High speeds are very important for 4K HD streaming quality. You’ll be provided with unlimited bandwidth and a buffer-less streaming experience.

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

2. NordVPN – SmartPlay technologies for streaming

Price	$3.71/mo.
Website	Nordvpn.com

Providing heavy games in the security department, we have NordVPN. This provider also tops the list for the best streaming VPN, mainly because it has proven to unblock some of the most popular streaming services.

A few include Amazon Prime, Hotstar, BBC iPlayer, the US Netflix library, Hulu, and more, with great ease!

It has around 5000+ servers in 59 countries, with each server using Double VPN technologies. 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.

Coming to what NordVPN is truly famous for other than being the perfect VPN for streaming, is the security it provides to make accessing restricted content successful.

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.

Get NordVPN for  Streaming Now

3. ExpressVPN – HD and UHD streaming speeds

Price	$6.67/mo.
Website	Expressvpn.com

ExpressVPN is widely recognized as the fastest and securest VPNs. Just in case you’re trying to access unlimited restricted streaming services from geo-censored countries, ExpressVPN works the best for it! It even unblocks Netflix!

It possesses some extremely strong unblocking capacities, from anywhere in the world. When put to the test, ExpressVPN unblocked Hulu, Disney Plus, Amazon Prime Video, DAZN, Kodi, and other leading streaming giants.

It has around 3000+ servers in a huge coverage of 94 countries. A few of the ExpressVPN servers produced some of the fastest speed results!

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.

Get ExpressVPN for Streaming Now

4. IPVanish – Unblocks US streaming services worldwide

Price	$2.62/mo.
Website	Ipvanish.com

Now, 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 245-bit AES 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

5. CyberGhost – Optimized servers 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.

When put under testing, CyberGhost unblocked US Netflix, ESPN, Amazon Prime, Comedy Central, and many other services.

It has huge coverage of 6000+ servers in 90 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

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 unrestricted streaming. 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.

FAQs

Why do you need the best VPN for streaming?

If you’ve noticed, the title doesn’t just state why you’d need a VPN for streaming, but rather why you’d need the “best VPN” for streaming. There are many VPNs in the industry; some are great for torrenting, some for gaming, while others for streaming.

A great VPN for streaming depends on much more than just unblocking a few streaming platforms. It depends on the many features and sturdy performance it can provide its users, throughout your connection to it.

However, coming back to why you’d need a VPN for streaming, you should know that it’s mainly for precautionary and access purposes. Take the Covid-19 (Corona Virus) breakout for instance.

This has led many families or individuals to stay within the safe walls of their own homes. And, keeping that in mind, what better way to end the day than with some of the latest movies or TV shows, to keep you and the family busy?

But, accessing each streaming platform may not be as easy as you think; that’s where using a VPN comes in. The following are a few major reasons revolving around why you’d need a VPN:

• Firstly, it is to gain access to multiple streaming platforms, which are geo-blocked. Netflix isn’t available in some countries as compared to other locations like the US, UK, and Canada.
• Sometimes certain Netflix libraries or movies are available in India, while some are restricted. A VPN can unblock them.
• Your ISP or the government is spying on you; keeping track of all the websites or services you try to access online. A VPN can privatize your streaming activities, and your connection, anonymizing your physical location.
• It possesses server locations like Switzerland and Romania, which you can connect to if ever traveling abroad. These locations and more are noted as some of the safest servers to connect to.
• There are times when your ISP throttles your bandwidth and tampers with your speed.
• Using a VPN will help you protect your devices from hackers or malware attacks while accessing streaming platforms.
• A VPN for streaming will also allow you to access streaming services from platforms like Kodi that are a little unsafe to use.
• Some countries block not only streaming services but multiple other social platforms due to strict censorship laws. A VPN can pave the way to access them smoothly and securely.

Can I use a free VPN for streaming?

Yes, and no.

Choosing to use a free VPN for streaming is honestly a personal choice, but from my point of view, I feel it may pose a bigger risk than needed.

Secondly, a free VPN doesn’t exactly come with all the main or required features/security to access multiple big-league streaming services. Features like a Kill Switch, Split-Tunneling, DNS/IP leak protection, or even wide server coverage, won’t be available on a free VPN.

However, if reliability is your main concern and only need a free VPN for a couple of hours, without the care for security, there are some very restricted free VPN that I do recommend. They are:

• Hotspot Shield
• Windscribe
• TunnelBear
• ProtonVPN

Other than that, there are some free trial VPNs that are worthy providers in the industry, which are great for both streaming and torrenting. Plus, they come with refund policies. You can test them out using their trial period with premium features.

How to set up and use the best VPN for streaming?

Choosing the best VPN for streaming and connecting to the best server locations for you, can help unblock multiple platforms from anywhere. To get started is pretty simple, all you have to do is:

• Subscribe to the best VPN for streaming, I’ve recommended 5 (Surfshark, NordVPN, ExpressVPN, IPVanish, and CyberGhost).
• Download the app and install it on the supported device you chose.
• Launch the VPN app, and sign in to your account, using the same email and password you used to subscribe to the VPN service.
• Choose a US, UK, or AUS server depending on which service you want to unblock.
• Click on connect.
• Open up the streaming service website or app on your device and start binging!

How do I use and unblock Netflix using a VPN?

Netflix has a huge platform of media libraries, with the latest movies and original series, available for limited users to stream.

The US Netflix library has the widest range of entertainment and certainly is the most popular in the world as compared to the rest. But the issue with Netflix is that it’s not available everywhere.

This is where the best VPN for streaming plays a more than useful role. When you settled with the best VPN; downloading it on your device, all you need to do is simply connect to any US server.

This will allow you to unblock the US Netflix library, accessing your favorite movies and series. The list of best VPNs for streaming mentioned above is ideal if you want to watch Netflix.

What are the best VPNs for streaming on Sports channels?

All 5 providers mentioned in my list (Surfshark, NordVPN, ExpressVPN, IPVanish, and CyberGhost), 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! That’s what its purpose is.

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 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. All the providers mentioned, for the best VPN for streaming, will be worth your while and give you the best Kodi experience.

Wrapping up

To score the best VPN for streaming automatically means you have access to universal movies, TV shows, documentaries, etc, right on your fingertips.

Not any and every VPN or server are capable of unblocking streaming service, but, luckily all the providers mentioned in my list, (Surfshark, NordVPN, ExpressVPN, 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!

To Summarize, the Best VPNs for Streaming are…..

Rank	Provider	Our Score	User Rating
1	Surfshark	9.6/10	Read Review	Find Out More Get Started >>
2	NordVPN	9.4/10	Read Review	Find Out More Get Started >>
3	ExpressVPN	9.3/10	Read Review	Find Out More Get Started >>
4	IPVanish	9.0/10	Read Review	Find Out More Get Started >>
5	Cyberghost	8.8/10	Read Review	Find Out More Get Started >>