Popcorn Time offers TV series and other streaming content for free, but it’s not as safe. To access it, you’re going to need the best Popcorn Time VPN. In this guide, you’ll find the best VPN providers for it and the reasons why you should use one!
What is Popcorn Time?
Have you ever heard of Popcorn Time?
Popcorn Time is a free open-source streaming service that runs on a torrenting client. It takes away the difficult task of having users leech torrents and instead offers a media player that lets you stream content of torrents.
This is mostly why it’s gained popularity over the years. It works a little like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and other streaming services, but it’s not quite the same.
To jump right to the chase, even though streaming is legal, sadly Popcorn time is a streaming service that downloads its content straight from a peer-to-peer BitTorrent client. This is where multiple torrent websites share or upload content. Most of the Popcorn Time content you’ll have access to, may be in violation of copyrights.
However! There’s a fix to that!
The good news is you’ll still be able to watch all your favorite shows. But, to do that, you’re not only going to need the best VPN provider but the best Popcorn Time VPN to access unlimited free content.
Choosing the best Popcorn Time VPN isn’t an easy task, and needs to be picked based on detailed testing. All the providers mentioned on this list have been run through multiple tests and picked according to user-experience, privacy features, and Popcorn Time supported devices.
Before I show you how to choose the most reliable VPN for Popcorn Time, here’s a quick list of the top 5:
- Surfshark Top choice for Popcorn Time! Regulates fast speeds, is P2P friendly, safe no-logs policy and allows unlimited simultaneous device connections $2.49/mo.
- NordVPN Provider with high-end security, fast speeds, allows multi-device connections, and is DNS leak protected, all at $3.71/mo.
- ExpressVPN Fastest streaming speeds in the industry, is DNS protected and offers a large server network for streaming, torrenting, and unlimited bandwidth, at $6.67/mo.
- CyberGhost Great privacy features to use on Popcorn Time, has steady speeds, unblocks Popcorn Time abroad, and more at $2.25/mo.
- FastestVPN Budgeted Popcorn Time VPN, with robust security features, good download speeds, and leak protection at $1.11/mo.
The best Popcorn Time VPN in 2020
Streaming on Popcorn Time is a little riskier than using the paid services of Netflix. However, the good thing about it is, “It’s a free service!”.
But, regardless of that, you have to choose the best VPN for it. It should be based on its inclusion of P2P optimized servers, fast download speeds, and strong security, all of which the VPNs discussed below possess.
We start with:
1. Surfshark – Top recommendation for Popcorn TimeVPN
| Price | $2.49/mo. |
| Refund | 30-Days |
| Website | Surfshark.com |
My top pick for Popcorn Time is Surfshark.
This VPN observes strict privacy laws and has around 1700+ servers in 64 countries that sport extremely good speeds for both torrenting and streaming in HD quality. The best part about Surfshark is that majority of its servers are P2P optimized.
It aims high in providing the best security features suitable for Popcorn Time. Some of it includes 256-bit AES military-grade encryption, a Kill Switch, IPv6, WebRTC and DNS leak protection, GPS spoofing, and much more. For more details on the provider and its overall performance, you should look into, in my Surfshark review.
Surfshark is also compatible with numerous devices that support Popcorn Time. Some of the platforms include Firestick, Windows, Android, iOS, macOS, Linux, and others. The best part is that you can make unlimited simultaneous connections per VPN subscription. This means you’ll be able to protect all your devices in one go.
Besides Surfshark being a reliable VPN choice for Popcorn Time, it also unblocks a whole plethora of services. A few of the major ones include Netflix, Amazon Video, Hulu, HBO channels, and much more!
You can also test the VPN out on your own using the Surfshark free trial or run it during any paid subscription period using its 30-day refund.
2. NordVPN – Strongest security, fast speeds, and no-logs policy
| Price | $3.71/mo. |
| Refund | 30-Days |
| Website | NordVPN.com |
Known for both great speeds and strong security, we have NordVPN, widely known in the industry as one of the public’s favorites.
This Panama VPN provides the best privacy and anonymity of its users. Having a huge platform of 5000+ servers in 59 countries, it has a majority of its servers optimized for P2P and fast streaming speeds.
What makes NordVPN best for Popcorn Time is its security backing. It runs on AES 256-bit encryption, has an in-built Kill Switch, and DNS protection feature that you can jet start in the app. There’s also an advanced CyberSec feature for getting rid of annoying pop-up ads, and more.
You can view its complete features and overall performance in a NordVPN review.
NordVPN is highly compatible with Popcorn Time supported devices and apps. A couple of them include Windows, iOS, Android, Apple TV, Linux, and a lot more in general. As for streaming on firestick, NordVPN has a dedicated Firestick VPN app to stream freely. You can now stream through this service on 6 devices at one time!
Apart from the Popcorn Time services, NordVPN has a history of bypassing major geo-blocks. When tested, it managed to unblock BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Netflix, Fox News, and plenty more.
If you’d like to test out NordVPN’s unblocking abilities, try using the 7-day free trial for Android and iOS mobile devices, or directly run its 30-day refund trial on unlimited supported devices. The point of the refund trial is that if dissatisfied, you can ask for your money back during the first month of subscription.
3. ExpressVPN – Fastest speed and great security
| Price | $6.67/mo. |
| Refund | 30-Days |
| Website | ExpressVPN.com |
ExpressVPN is a VPN giant. It’s known for providing servers that are both compatible with streaming and torrenting 4K content with super-fast speeds.
Based in the British Virgin Islands, it observes strict no-logging policies, making it a decent choice for Popcorn Time. It has a platform of 3000+ servers in 94 countries, all of which are optimized for torrenting with great speeds.
In terms of security, ExpressVPN runs on military-grade 256-bit AES encryption on OpenVPN protocol for all its servers. It also has an inbuilt Network Lock Kill Switch, runs its own encrypted DNS over every server, and much more.
For a detailed performance report, have a look at my ExpressVPN review. It will give you a better idea of the app.
ExpressVPN is also compatible with all the major devices and apps for Popcorn Time. You can download and install the ExpressVPN app on Windows, FireTV/Firestick, Android, Linux, iOS, and macOS. The VPN also allows you to connect up to 5 devices simultaneously, securing every device you use for online surfing.
A few of the more famous services that ExpressVPN has managed to unblock or provide safe access to besides Popcorn Time include, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Disney Plus, Netflix, Kodi, and more.
ExpressVPN has a limited 7-day free trial for iOS and Android mobile devices, and a 30-day refund on top of each subscription plan.
Most VPN users say that ExpressVPN is a little overpriced, but it does provide exceptional services to suit the price. This VPN also comes with regular discounts! Besides, if you’re not happy with the services during the refund period, you could always cancel your account and ask for your money back! The only downside is fewer configuration options compared to the other VPN apps.
4. CyberGhost – Great privacy features
| Price | $2.25/mo. |
| Refund | 45-Days |
| Website | CyberGhost.com |
If you’re looking for anonymity on Popcorn Time, then go for CyberGhost.
CyberGhost is known in the VPN industry for its strict privacy policies and having one of the largest server coverages. It has around 6000+ servers spread across 90 countries.
The majority of its servers are dedicated to P2P and streaming, rendering some of the best download speeds, with unlimited bandwidth. During its testing, it managed to unblock Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney Plus, and a lot more services.
Besides providing the best privacy and anonymity to its users, it also pretty great where security is concerned. CyberGhost operates with 256-bit AES encryption on OpenVPN protocol. It has a Kill Switch, Adblocker, and more to offer, but for that, there’s a detailed CyberGhost review you can go through.
You’ll be able to watch Popcorn Time on your Windows, Android, macOS, iOS, and others. CyberGhost also allows you to make 7 multi-device connections per subscription.
Try testing the features and unblocking abilities using the CyberGhost free trial. It has a 24 hr trial for Windows (PC), a 7-day free trial for Android and iOS mobile devices, and a 45-day refund on each subscription plan.
5. FastestVPN – Budgeted and secure VPN
| Price | $1.11/mo. |
| Refund | 15-Days |
| Website | FastestVPN.com |
FastestVPN is known as a dark horse in the VPN realm.
It has a simple server panel of 350+ servers in 39+ locations but all fully optimized towards P2P and streaming. It also ships up some pretty amazing download speeds with unlimited bandwidth. FastestVPN is also known to be one of the best VPNs for privacy and no-data retention policies.
Another thing about FastestVPN that you may have not been aware of, is its variety of security features. It uses bank-grade 256-bit encryption on OpenVPN protocol, has a functional Kill Switch, Smart Connect feature, and more that you can view in detail in my FastestVPN review.
It also has support for major devices and apps for Popcorn Time. Some of these include Windows, Android, iOS, macOS, and Linux. FastestVPN also allows you to connect up to 10 devices simultaneously per subscription!
Apart from having a budgeted and user-friendly app for Popcorn Time, you can use FastestVPN to unblock much more. Other services that it’s great for include Hulu, DAZN, Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, and a few more.
The only downside is that there’s no free trial, it only has a 15-day refund. However, I guess that’s pretty alright since it’s a budgeted VPN.
How to choose a VPN for Popcorn Time!
As catchy and intriguing as the name sounds, there are a lot of lines that you could cross when trying to stream on Popcorn Time.
Even though the services are completely free, you’ll be putting much more at risk. This is because it uses a torrent software for downloading all the content.
In short, you’ll be violating a lot of copyright laws, especially if file sharing isn’t allowed or legal in your country.
For this reason, I chose the top 5 VPNs for Popcorn Time based on:
- One that supports torrenting and streaming. Most VPNs are either compatible with either streaming or torrenting. I picked 5 that supports both, and unblock multiple services worldwide.
- Great download speeds with unlimited bandwidth go hand in hand. I chose these Popcorn Time VPNs based on their performance results covering these two aspects.
- Reliable and strong security features, like 256-bit AES encryption, a Kill Switch, DNS and IP leak protection, split tunneling, etc.
- Provides numerous Shared IP addresses for maximum anonymity. This is important to mask the identity and location of various Popcorn Time users from all over the world. With a shared IP, the government or ISP won’t be able to track down the exact location or IP where the downloads took place.
- A VPN that comes with reliable or trustworthy privacy, no data-retention, and refund policies.
- It should be affordable. Since Popcorn Time compensates its free services with a heavily priced VPN feature that is required to stream its services, it’s best you invest in a premium and known VPN service.
How to access Popcorn Time with a VPN
Now that you’ve gone through the best VPNs for Popcorn Time, the rest is fairly simple to do. All you have to do is:
- Choose any one of the Popcorn Time VPNs in the list above. I recommend Surfshark.
- Download the VPN and install it on a compatible device.
- Launch the VPN and Sign in to your account.
- Connect to any one of the servers that render the best speeds.
- Startup the Popcorn Time app and start streaming.
FAQs
Is Popcorn Time safe to use?
Yes, technically speaking, Popcorncorn Time is safe. The only thing you need to be careful off is not accessing it without a good VPN. Other than that, there are many copycat versions of the service that you need to stay clear of.
Why do you need a VPN for Popcorn Time?
This service might be one of the safer options, but you’re still going to need a VPN for it.
People love Popcorn Time, particularly because it’s free. You won’t even find any geo-restrictions in the way of using its service. However, its free platform is the biggest reason why you’d need a VPN for it, and most users use a VPN to keep their activities safe on Popcorn Time.
Using a VPN for Popcorn Time will mask your identity, encrypt your online activities, and hide your location from your ISP and other online tracking entities.
Since the service is about downloading content most of which are under copyrights, a VPN will secure your connection, and protect your data from the public eye. Without one, you can even be sued by filmmakers, whose content you download.
A VPN for Popcorn Time will keep you safe and at the same time enhance your streaming experience. Even when you’re connected to the VPN, it will warn you whether you’re being monitored or not.
On the other hand…
It goes without saying, “nothing in life is ever free”. Popcorn Time might be a free service, but the moment you download the app on a supported device, you’ll see this pop-up that says:
Popcorn time now urges users to use a VPN service with their platform. However, you can’t use just any VPN.
It’s a fact that not all VPN services are safe and can’t be used for just any platform. Popcorn Time will ask you to download the VPN service that they offer, but that doesn’t mean you should consider it!
Keeping in the mind the several factors why a VPN is needed for Popcorn Time – copyright violations, blocked content from certain countries, and online privacy, you need to consider the use of the best Popcorn Time VPN instead of just any provider.
Other than that, with one of these providers mentioned on my list (Surfshark, NordVPN, ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and FastestVPN), you’ll be able to bypass speed and bandwidth throttling!
Can I use Popcorn Time on mobile devices?
Yes, you can absolutely use it on mobile phones. The great news is, all the VPN providers on my list offers mobile apps with unlimited advanced features. Plus, you’ll still be able to stream on Popcorn Time without any issues.
Can I use a proxy for Popcorn Time?
You can, but that wouldn’t be the best idea. A proxy might get you access to the service and change your IP, but it certainly will not encrypt your data. To stream on Popcorn Time, you’re going to need all the privacy and security you can get, just for the safe side.
Is Reddit a reliable source for Popcorn Time VPN reviews?
Besides testing a Popcorn Time VPN on your own, always go through other user-reviews or experiences. One of the best platforms involving unlimited questions is Reddit. It includes similar questions on its platform like the ones in your mind. Here’s an example:
So, yes, Reddit is one of the few platforms that does offer reliable reviews for Popcorn Time.
How do I get rid of the VPN warning sign?
When you use Popcorn Time, you’ll always see this small tab that says “TURN ON VPN”. This happens despite the fact that you’re already connected to a VPN. There’s no exact way to stop this issue, but it’s noticed that it occurs mostly on the new version of the Popcorn Time app. You can try reverting back to the older version if it bothers you a lot. However, if you use a renowned VPN service, like the ones mentioned on my list, you could finally get rid of the pop-up warning.
Can I watch Popcorn Time without a VPN? (WARNING!)
Technically speaking, you can. But the service should never be used without a VPN nor with a free one.
As mentioned, Popcorn Time runs on BitTorrent technology. This means accessing its content might be fun but is a huge risk at the same time. Without a VPN, you could easily put yourself at immediate risk for copyright violations.
A VPN protects your personal data from being accessed, encrypts your activities, and gives you all the privacy you need to keep your ISP or the MPAA (Motion Picture Association of America) from reaching or tracking you down.
If you need a little more assurance, here’s a small snippet from users on Quora regarding using Popcorn Time without a VPN:
How do I use Popcorn Time without a VPN?
I wouldn’t advise you to stream on Popcorn Time without a VPN, but if you’re still going ahead with it, here’s how:
- First, download the Popcorn Time app on any supported device.
- Install and launch the app.
- Open up the app and stream through any content that is available to you.
Can I use a free VPN for Popcorn Time?
No, you shouldn’t.
Even though there are a couple of reliable free VPNs that work with this service, I wouldn’t recommend you use them. Popcorn Time is a free service that runs on Torrenting client, which means there are a few risks that come with this great service.
Other than that, free VPN services can’t be trusted nor relied on for the best services. They steal your data, leak it, or sell it to third parties. Not failing to mention, it also slows down your entire connection speed and throttles with your bandwidth, something that your ISP already does.
Why is my VPN not working with Popcorn Time?
There are many cases when you’re using a VPN for Popcorn Time and it fails to work. Don’t worry and don’t panic! This is common. There are a few reasons why your VPN may not be working with Popcorn Time and here’s what you should do:
Load on servers
There are many people using the same VPN and the same IP address, keeping in mind that it’s shared IP addresses that you’re connected to. The lack of performance is due to the heavy load on the servers you’re connected to. All you need to do is keep changing the server locations, making different variations for it to start working again.
Change the protocol
Sometimes, besides the server load issue, the lack of functionality on Popcorn Time also arises when you’re connected to the wrong protocol. All you need to do is go to your settings and change your protocol to work smoothly against the server location you selected.
Restart your device and VPN
There are so many cases where you’re streaming stops midway or fails to function at all. Sometimes to get things started, all you need to do is restart your device and the app. It’s as simple as that.
Disconnect from any third-party anti-virus apps or Firewall
Sometimes if you’re connected to too many things in one go, it could slow down the connectivity to Popcorn Time through a VPN that already has a separate in-built Firewall and Anti-virus feature. Make sure you’re disconnected from any outsources before connecting to the VPN and the Popcorn Time app.
To conclude
In order to bypass the free services of Popcorn Time with a secure and untraceable connection, it’s advisable you go for premium VPN services; more evidently the best VPN for Popcorn Time, to avoid any streaming issues.
Each of the 5 VPNs (Surfshark, CyberGhost, NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and FastestVPN) provided for Popcorn Time comes with fast speeds, unlimited bandwidth, strong security features, obfuscated servers, and most of all have extremely reliable privacy, refund, and no-data retention policies.
Need to save some money on the VPN you went with? Then make sure you check out this VPN deals page for the biggest discounts!
Leave a Reply