Losing access to a show mid-watch because a streaming service's regional licensing deal expired can be frustrating. Oftentimes, that show is still on the platform and just not available in your home country. Luckily, a VPN can help. We mainly evaluate VPNs as privacy tools that safeguard your data against malicious third parties. However, we also examine how reliable a VPN is at unblocking Netflix. Each option on this list reliably granted access to Netflix in my tests. We also give special attention to services that offer streaming-specific features, such as specialized servers and generous multi-device connections. Read on for the best VPNs for streaming, followed by everything you need to know to choose the right service for you.
Overview
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![Proton VPN]()
Best Free SubscriptionProton VPN
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![NordVPN]()
Best Premium FeaturesNordVPN
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![ExpressVPN]()
Best for Global AccessExpressVPN
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![TunnelBear VPN]()
Best User InterfaceTunnelBear VPN
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![CyberGhost VPN]()
Best for Dedicated Streaming ServersCyberGhost VPN
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![Surfshark VPN]()
Best for Multi-Device StreamingSurfshark VPN
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![Hide.me VPN]()
Best Budget OptionHide.me VPN
You Can Trust Our Reviews
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
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Credit: Proton
![Proton VPN]()
Best Free SubscriptionProton VPN
Pros & Cons
ProtonVPN offers one of the best free subscription tiers we've seen. The company has numerous servers worldwide dedicated to streaming. It unblocked Netflix in every region we tested.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: Proton’s latency may be a deal-breaker for intensive gaming, but we found its speeds steady and reliable for streaming video. NetShield is a handy ad blocker that can help de-clutter your favorite streaming site, though don’t expect it to consistently remove pre- and mid-roll ads. Proton also has servers tailored for streaming that are built to bypass blocks. You can try Proton for free with a plan that offers eight servers to choose from and no data limits. However, we recommend the premium subscription for testing streaming services, as most of the free servers are detected.
Privacy and security: The people behind Proton take privacy seriously, with an unyielding commitment to transparency and accountability that is rare in the VPN space. All apps are open-source, so you never have to question if there’s a hidden vulnerability that could compromise your data. Annual audits and frequent transparency reports demonstrate that Proton consistently maintains its standards year after year.
Speed and performance: Proton’s premium servers rank in the middle of the pack in terms of performance, with a 20.11% decrease in download speeds, a 43.21% decrease in upload speeds, and a 351.26% increase in latency.
Streaming: We had no issues streaming Netflix with Proton. Proton’s premium servers worked flawlessly, granting us access to every regional catalog we tested.
User experience and ease of use: All of Proton’s apps are streamlined and easy to use, catering to both beginners and experienced users. Features are easily accessible and clearly labeled on both desktop and mobile interfaces. It’s easy to tell when you’re connected to a server, and you can access advanced options with just a couple of clicks.
Who It's For
Users who want a free VPN: If you're on a budget or aren't sure you want to commit to a full VPN subscription just yet, ProtonVPN's free plan offers access to the maximum available bandwidth on a select set of servers.
Privacy-conscious users: Proton’s unwavering commitment to transparency and privacy makes it one of the best options for those who value their privacy. Proton is an excellent choice, thanks to its stellar privacy standards and robust anti-malware protections through NetShield.
Specs & Configurations
500+ Servers Blocks Ads Can Manually Select Server In Free Version Free Connection Speeds Limited No Free Version Free Version Server Limit US, Netherlands, Japan Free Version Data Limit Unlimited Free Version Simultaneous Connection Limit 1 Geographically Diverse Servers No Ads In Free Version? Yes Public Third-Party Audit Server Locations 129 countries Simultaneous VPN Connections 10 Supported Protocols on Android WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on iOS WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on macOS WireGuard, IKEv2 Learn More Proton VPN Review -
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Credit: NordVPN
![NordVPN]()
Best Premium FeaturesNordVPN
Pros & Cons
NordVPN is a privacy juggernaut at a premium price. It performed the best in our most recent round of speed tests, earning a PCMag Lab Award for fastest VPN. Its streaming-specific network options make it an easy choice for reliable streaming access.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: NordVPN’s NordLynx protocol is fast, open-source, and reliable. It also provides access to split tunneling and multi-hop connections. Nord’s Threat Protection Pro keeps you safe from malware on most streaming sites and blocks nasty trackers that could try to keep tabs on your browsing habits.
Privacy and security: Nord maintains transparent privacy standards with third-party audits and a frequently updated transparency report. NordLynx utilizes open-source technology, allowing you to examine what makes the service tick. Nord doesn’t keep logs, and its no-logs policy has been independently verified in multiple security audits by VerSprite, Cure53, Deloitte, and PriceWaterhouseCoopers (PWC).
Speed and performance: Nord has consistently delivered excellent performance, landing the number one spot in our latest round of speed tests. It reduced our download speeds by just 1.94%, upload speeds by 5.54%, and increased our latency by 67.04%, just keep in mind that your experience may vary depending on your proximity to a Nord server.
Streaming: Streaming with Nord was streamlined. We didn’t experience any buffering or stuttering with videos. Additionally, Nord managed to unblock every regional Netflix library we tested.
User experience and ease of use: Nord’s desktop apps can be a tad cluttered and overwhelming, especially if you’re new to VPNs. The dashboard is excellent for advanced users, offering a range of useful menus and tools.
Who It's For
Netflix watchers: Those looking to access streaming content will appreciate NordVPN's extensive selection of regional servers.
Users who also want antivirus: Nord’s Threat Protection Pro has some limitations, but it's one of the more affordable options out there, considering you also get Nord’s VPN bundled with it.
Specs & Configurations
500+ Servers Blocks Ads Free Version Data Limit No Free Version Geographically Diverse Servers Server Locations 118 countries Simultaneous VPN Connections 6 Supported Protocols on Android NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN Supported Protocols on iOS NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec Supported Protocols on macOS NordLynx (based on WireGuard), OpenVPN, IKEv2 Learn More NordVPN Review -
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Credit: ExpressVPN
![ExpressVPN]()
Best for Global AccessExpressVPN
Pros & Cons
ExpressVPN boasts one of the most extensive server networks, ensuring you can access local content from anywhere. The company also has coverage in underserved regions, including Africa and the Middle East.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol is known for its reliability and is backed by post-quantum encryption, making it suited for consistent video streaming. You can also use split tunneling to watch local content while the rest of your traffic remains encrypted.
Privacy and security: ExpressVPN is transparent about its data practices. The service does log aggregate data on user usage, but the company claims none of this information can be tied back to user accounts. Biannual transparency reports reinforce this claim, as do the 22 independent security audits Express has undergone.
Speed and performance: ExpressVPN decreased download speeds by 15.48%, upload speeds by 13%, and increased latency by 92.06%. These scores place it just above average, making it a solid choice for data-intensive tasks like streaming or downloading videos.
Streaming: Netflix access was seamless with ExpressVPN. We pitted it against five regional catalogs from the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and Japan. It performed well, giving us unrestricted access to every single one.
User experience and ease of use: ExpressVPN offers a sleek, intuitive interface. Its single-button connection screen makes it a breeze to connect, and the settings menu offers a range of advanced options for those who want to fine-tune their connection.
Who It's For
Binge watchers: ExpressVPN is for those who want fast and reliable streaming. The VPN's specialized Lightway protocol makes it an excellent option for streaming, gaming, and browsing.
First-time VPN users: ExpressVPN’s intuitive interface makes it easy to use without prior knowledge.
Specs & Configurations
500+ Servers Blocks Ads Free Version Data Limit No Free Version Geographically Diverse Servers Server Locations 105 Countries Simultaneous VPN Connections 10-14 Supported Protocols on Android Lightway Supported Protocols on iOS OpenVPN, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on macOS Lightway, OpenVPN, L2TP Learn More ExpressVPN Review -
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![TunnelBear VPN]()
Best User InterfaceTunnelBear VPN
Pros & Cons
TunnelBear is affordable at $9.99 per month and successfully unblocked every Netflix catalog in testing. For that price, you can use the service across an unlimited number of devices without any data limits.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: TunnelBear’s premium app is affordable and feature-rich. You get advanced obfuscation with GhostBear, a protocol that mimics HTTPS to bypass common VPN blocks. TunnelBear also has a free version that lets you try out all the app's features if you’re not sure it's the right pick for you. You aren’t limited to a slim selection of servers or barred from using advanced features or protocols. However, you are limited to 2GB of data per month. The premium version has servers in 45 countries and doesn’t place a cap on simultaneous device connections.
Privacy and security: TunnelBear’s privacy policy is thoughtfully designed and easy to read. Every point is illustrated with a real-world example of how TunnelBear handles that specific instance, inquiry, or data point. TunnelBear has undergone seven separate independent audits that have verified the company’s stalwart stance on privacy. Regularly updated transparency reports hammer home this point, revealing that the service has never handed over user information in response to an inquiry or lawful order.
Speed and performance: TunnelBear performed below average in our most recent bout of speed tests. It decreased our download speeds by 83% and our upload speeds by 72%. Latency also saw a significant 109% increase. Keep in mind that speed tests vary based on a variety of local factors, so we don’t recommend buying a VPN based on speed tests alone.
Streaming: TunnelBear unblocked Netflix in all tested regions without fail. TunnelBear has servers in 45 countries, providing a broad global coverage. While it may not have the most comprehensive server network, it services the most popular countries that offer regional streaming catalogs.
User experience and ease of use: One of TunnelBear’s standout features is its intuitive, fun design, especially on mobile. The fun, brightly colored interface is easy to use and features bears at every turn. It’s not too cluttered. It’s not too sparse. This interface is just right. A map makes it easy to tell where you’re connecting to, and you’ll get a cute animation of a bear tunneling to the region that you choose to connect to. Advanced features and additional configuration options are just a couple of taps away.
Who It's For
VPN beginners: TunnelBear tops our list as the most beginner-friendly VPN app with a fun theme, easy-to-use features, and a no-clutter interface. You can try it out for free without entering any payment information or personal details.
Design fans: TunnelBear is one of the few services out there that doesn’t take itself too seriously. TunnelBear's fun and whimsical design philosophy is a breath of fresh air compared with the many dark-themed VPN apps on the market.
Specs & Configurations
500+ Servers Are All Features Available In Free Version? Blocks Ads Can Manually Select Server In Free Version Free Connection Speeds Limited No Free Version Free Version Server Limit All Servers Free Version Data Limit 2GB per month Free Version Simultaneous Connection Limit Unlimited Geographically Diverse Servers No Ads In Free Version? Yes Public Third-Party Audit Server Locations 45 Countries Simultaneous VPN Connections Unlimited Supported Protocols on Android OpenVPN Supported Protocols on iOS WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on macOS WireGuard, OpenVPN Learn More TunnelBear VPN Review -
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Credit: CyberGhost
![CyberGhost VPN]()
Best for Dedicated Streaming ServersCyberGhost VPN
Pros & Cons
CyberGhost has a massive network of over 11,500 servers. Its task-specific servers make it an excellent choice for streaming, with special configuration options for the most popular streaming services.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: CyberGhost’s streaming-specific servers are meant specifically for accessing regional content from various streaming services. A vast network of over 11,500 servers in 100 countries makes CyberGhost an excellent choice for accessing country-specific content. It also achieved solid performance scores, making it a good choice for reliable video streaming.
Privacy and security: CyberGhost’s service is backed by a comprehensive, easy-to-read privacy policy that clearly states the company does not retain, sell, or trade user data. The VPN releases quarterly transparency reports and is regularly audited by privacy firms such as Deloitte.
Speed and performance: CyberGhost performed well in our latest round of speed tests. We saw a 8.73% reduction in download speeds, a 4.41% decrease in upload speeds, and a 92.06% increase in latency. We found it to be plenty fast enough for quality video streaming.
Streaming: We pitted CyberGhost against five regional Netflix catalogs: The US, UK, Australia, Japan, and Canada. It was able to access each region’s specific content catalog without running into blocks or restrictions.
User experience and ease of use: All of CyberGhost’s apps are organized and easy to use. You can quickly find the streaming servers on the left-hand sidebar. It’s always clear when you’re connected thanks to a large power button icon on the right side of the dashboard. Each server displays its current user load, so you can easily identify fast streaming servers in your area.
Who It's For
Task-specific users: CyberGhost is for users who want dedicated server options for streaming, gaming, and torrenting. The VPN's advanced NoSpy servers make it an excellent choice for those who need uncompromising privacy.
Mobile users: CyberGhost’s mobile apps are straightforward to use and offer full access to advanced features. It's easy to take your content on the go, thanks to the seven simultaneous device connections.
Specs & Configurations
500+ Servers Blocks Ads Free Version Data Limit No Free Version Geographically Diverse Servers Server Locations 90 Countries Simultaneous VPN Connections 7 Supported Protocols on Android WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on iOS WireGuard, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on macOS WireGuard, IKEv2 Learn More CyberGhost VPN Review -
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Credit: Surfshark
![Surfshark VPN]()
Best for Multi-Device StreamingSurfshark VPN
Pros & Cons
Surfshark VPN is a relatively expensive option, but it offers reliable Netflix streaming on an unlimited number of devices. Everyone in the same household can watch their favorite shows without having to connect and disconnect to make space.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: Surfshark's network boasts good global coverage, with a presence in 100 countries, making it a suitable choice for accessing regional content. Advanced connection options, such as multi-hop and post-quantum encryption, enable you to tailor your security preferences with ease. Surfshark aims to be a one-app security solution and comes bundled with an antivirus, ad blocker, and additional identity protection tools.
Privacy and security: Privacy policies can be confusing and dense. Surfshark takes a more comprehensive approach, offering an in-depth yet digestible policy that explains how the company handles data. The service has verified these claims with frequent third-party audits and quarterly transparency reports.
Speed and performance: Surfshark's performance was impressive. We only saw a 7.73% decrease in download speeds, a 7.12% decrease in upload speeds, and a 201.34% increase in latency.
Streaming: Netflix access was no problem for Surfshark. It accessed every regional catalog we tested without running into blocks. We did not experience stuttering or slow load times even when connected to distant locations.
User experience and ease of use: The user experience is consistent across all applications. Each version of Surfshark features a sleek design with clearly described features. It's easy to pick up and use as a new user, and it has enough depth for more experienced users to tinker with.
Who It's For
Users who prioritize speed: Surfshark is a solid choice for those looking to watch their favorite shows from anywhere without compromising security. The VPN was one of the fastest we have tested, and it easily unblocked regional Netflix catalogs.
Users who want a single-app solution: The biggest selling point for Surfshark is its privacy tool ecosystem. It's a good choice for those who may not want a handful of subscriptions to different services. With Surfshark, you can configure an array of tools all from a single control hub under one account.
Specs & Configurations
500+ Servers Blocks Ads Free Version Data Limit No Free Version Geographically Diverse Servers Server Locations 100 Countries Simultaneous VPN Connections Unlimited Supported Protocols on Android WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on iOS WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on macOS WireGuard, IKEv2 Learn More Surfshark VPN Review -
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Credit: Hide.me
![Hide.me VPN]()
Best Budget OptionHide.me VPN
Pros & Cons
For $9.95 per month, Hide.me offers access to thousands of servers in 57 countries. You can maintain up to 10 connections simultaneously, which is particularly beneficial for families or individuals looking to stream content on multiple devices. The free version has no data limits, which is excellent; however, its server selection is very limited, connection speeds are slower, and you can only connect one device at a time.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: Hide.me offers excellent features, including a firewall, a kill switch, multi-hop, and split tunneling. The interface has plenty of customization options, so you can configure your dashboard to your liking. Every plan includes SmartGuard, Hideme’s ad and tracker blocker. We found it to be reliable at blocking ads on text-based sites. You can also make use of Hide.me’s Bolt “Fast Proxy” if you want to just spoof your location without the performance downsides of encryption.
Privacy and security: Hide.me only requires your email address to make an account. With a wide range of secure, anonymous payment options, it’s easy to limit the data the service has access to. According to the privacy policy, the company collects your email and stores it in an encrypted form in a secure facility. Hide.me doesn't store any customer payment information or personal data, such as your IP address, physical address, or other personal information. Additionally, the service uses physical servers rather than virtual machines, giving the company greater control over how user data is handled.
Speed and performance: In our most recent tests, we were impressed with Hide.me’s performance. Download speeds only decreased by 5.93%, upload speeds by 22.72%, and latency increased by 92.11%. These results beat out the average impact across all VPNs that we tested.
Streaming: During testing, we accessed Netflix while connected to servers in Australia, Canada, Japan, the UK, and the US with no issues or limitations.
User experience and ease of use: The interface is a bit busy on Windows, with a sectioned dashboard that puts the features and tools you want front and center. Beginner users may find it especially difficult to determine which tools are important and which can be ignored. If you’d rather skip the clutter, then you can use the macOS or mobile apps for a simpler user experience.
Who It's For
Budget-conscious customers: Hide.me offers a feature-packed free version you can try. The SmartGuard feature is particularly interesting: It is an all-in-one ad blocker, malware blocker, parental control app, and website filter.
Movie streamers: If you plan to watch a lot of movies or shows on Hulu, Netflix, or other video streaming services, Hide.me's unlimited traffic is a major plus.
Specs & Configurations
500+ Servers Blocks Ads Can Manually Select Server In Free Version Free Connection Speeds Limited No Free Version Free Version Server Limit Five Locations Free Version Data Limit 10GB Per Month Free Version Simultaneous Connection Limit 1 Geographically Diverse Servers No Ads In Free Version? Yes Public Third-Party Audit Server Locations 89 Simultaneous VPN Connections 10 Learn More Hide.me VPN Review -
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Rating |
5.0 Exemplary |
4.5 Outstanding |
4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
4.5 Outstanding |
4.0 Excellent |
5.0 Exemplary |
4.5 Outstanding |
4.0 Excellent |
Best For | Best Free Subscription | Best Premium Features | Best for Global Access | Best User Interface | Best for Dedicated Streaming Servers | Best for Multi-Device Streaming | Best Budget Option | Best Free Subscription | Best Premium Features | Best for Global Access |
Blocks Ads | ||||||||||
Simultaneous VPN Connections | 10 | 6 | 10-14 | Unlimited | 7 | Unlimited | 10 | 10 | 6 | 10-14 |
500+ Servers | ||||||||||
Server Locations | 129 countries | 118 countries | 105 Countries | 45 Countries | 90 Countries | 100 Countries | 89 | 129 countries | 118 countries | 105 Countries |
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Free Version | ||||||||||
Free Version Data Limit | Unlimited | No Free Version | No Free Version | 2GB per month | No Free Version | No Free Version | 10GB Per Month | Unlimited | No Free Version | No Free Version |
Buying Guide: The Best VPNs for Video Streaming in 2026
Why Do Streaming Services Block VPNs?
Streaming services and VPNs have long been engaged in a battle for access and blocking. Due to regional licensing restrictions, streaming platforms like Netflix can’t broadcast certain shows outside of specific regions. To combat workarounds, these services block VPN connections, which remain effective until the VPN finds a new way to circumvent the block, resulting in a cycle that repeats indefinitely.
Government regulations can also be a factor. Some regions block certain apps, sites, and platforms. Companies often resort to blanket bans that forbid users from certain regions from accessing content. Age verification laws have imposed similar restrictions, forcing adult sites to withdraw from various states.
The situation is tricky for both users and the streaming platforms. Subscribers rightfully expect to be able to access the content they have paid for, regardless of their location. On the other hand, streaming platforms have to please rights holders (and government agencies) to continue operating.
Can a VPN Unblock Every Show?
It depends. For Netflix, we have found that there are three tiers of blocks that go as follows:
Recommended by Our Editors
- Open: Full access to the content catalog
- Limited: Only Netflix Originals
- Blocked: No access to the catalog at all
Other streaming services may have more or less aggressive blocking algorithms, but our testing procedures currently only account for access to Netflix. Even then, a VPN that consistently accesses Netflix today could be thwarted tomorrow. You can view our most recent Netflix test results in the chart below:
The blocking situation can change overnight, which is why we recommend avoiding long-term VPN subscriptions if your goal is to stream. The monthly cost may be higher, but you won’t be locked into a service that may no longer meet your needs. Plus, a VPN doesn't have to break the bank. There are plenty of affordable options that can unblock your favorite shows. We evaluate the price of every VPN during testing, which you can consult in the chart below:
What to Do if Your VPN Gets Detected by a Streaming Service
A VPN isn’t a foolproof solution to accessing your favorite show. Using one increases your chances from zero, but you may end up troubleshooting or waiting for the VPN to develop a workaround for a new block. If it doesn’t work on the first try, there are some steps you can take to try to regain access:
- Switch to a different server in the same country.
- Use a dedicated streaming server if one is available.
- Change your VPN protocol.
- Clear your web browser’s cache and cookies.
If none of the above steps work, you may need to wait and see if the problem resolves on its own over time. Alternatively, you can try another VPN, as each has its own servers and unblocking methods.