Best VPN for Streaming in 2025. Unlock & Watch your Favrouite Content

Streaming your favorite shows, movies, or live sports should be easy but geo-restrictions and throttled internet speeds can ruin the experience. Whether you’re trying to access Netflix libraries from other countries, unblock BBC iPlayer, or enjoy smoother 4K streams without buffering, the right VPN can make all the difference.

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) lets you bypass regional content blocks, hide your IP address, and avoid ISP throttlingall while keeping your online activity secure. But not all VPNs work reliably with streaming platforms. Some get blocked, offer slow speeds, or fail to maintain stable connections across borders.

In this guide, we’ve tested and ranked the 12 best VPNs for streaming in 2025. We’ll look at their performance with top platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and more covering their strengths, limitations, pricing, and overall streaming reliability. Let’s dive in and help you unlock global content with ease.

Want more than just streaming? If you often download large files or use P2P networks, make sure to stay protected with one of the Best VPNs for torrenting reviewed in our complete guide.

Absolutely! Here are detailed overviews, pros & cons, and pricing for the first three VPNs NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark tailored specifically for the Best VPNs for Streaming article.

1. NordVPN – Best Overall VPN for Streaming

NordVPN is a powerhouse when it comes to streaming. With over 6,300 servers in 111 countries and specialized SmartPlay technology, NordVPN consistently unblocks top streaming services like Netflix (including U.S., U.K., Japan libraries), Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer. Whether you’re traveling abroad or trying to access geo-blocked content at home, NordVPN makes the experience seamless.

Its speeds are excellent, thanks to the NordLynx protocol, a WireGuard-based technology that ensures ultra-fast connections without compromising security. NordVPN also offers obfuscated servers to bypass VPN detection, so even streaming services that are tough on VPNs can often be accessed without a hitch.

Security is equally strong. You get AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, and strict no-logs policy. NordVPN also provides malware and ad blocking through its Threat Protection feature, making it a great all-rounder not just for streaming, but for secure browsing.

Pros:

• Unblocks 10+ Netflix libraries and other major platforms
• SmartPlay feature for faster, buffer-free streaming
• Fast and stable connections with NordLynx protocol
• Strong security and privacy features

Cons:

• No dedicated app for routers (manual setup required)
• Windows app UI can feel a bit bulky

Pricing:

• Standard Plan: $3.39/month (2-year plan, billed $81.36 upfront)
• Plus Plan (with Threat Protection): $4.39/month
• 1-Month Plan: $12.99/month

2. ExpressVPN – Best VPN for Speed and Streaming Access

ExpressVPN is known for its blazing-fast speeds and consistent ability to unblock nearly every major streaming service. Whether it’s Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Hulu, or Amazon Prime Video, ExpressVPN’s global server network of 3,000+ servers across 105 countries ensures you’re covered almost anywhere in the world.

What sets ExpressVPN apart is its proprietary Lightway protocol, which delivers top-tier streaming performance with low latency and fast reconnections. It’s ideal for 4K streaming, live sports, and even high-speed binge-watching across devices. The VPN also includes MediaStreamer DNS, which helps unblock content on smart TVs and gaming consoles even devices that don’t typically support VPN apps.

Security-wise, ExpressVPN is rock-solid. It operates under a strict no-logs policy, has undergone multiple independent audits, and is based in the privacy-friendly British Virgin Islands.

Pros:

• Consistently works with Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and more
• Lightning-fast speeds with Lightway protocol
• MediaStreamer DNS for smart TVs and consoles
• Excellent privacy protections and no-logs policy

Cons:

• More expensive than most competitors
• Only 8 simultaneous connections

Pricing:

• 12-Month Plan: $6.67/month (includes 3 free months, billed $99.95 annually)
• 6-Month Plan: $9.99/month
• 1-Month Plan: $12.95/month

3. Surfshark – Best Value with Unlimited Device Connections

Surfshark is a top pick for users looking to stream on multiple devices without breaking the bank. Despite being more affordable than most top-tier VPNs, Surfshark still excels at unblocking Netflix libraries, Disney+, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video. With 3,200+ servers across 100 countries, it provides global access and reliable speeds.

One of Surfshark’s standout features is its unlimited simultaneous connections, making it ideal for large households or users with lots of devices. You also get CleanWeb (ad and tracker blocker), Camouflage Mode (VPN obfuscation), and MultiHop for added security.

Streaming performance is smooth and stable, particularly with the WireGuard protocol enabled. It also offers apps for smart TVs, Fire Stick, and browser extensions enhancing the streaming experience across all platforms.

Pros:

• Unblocks all major streaming platforms
• Unlimited device connections
• Affordable long-term pricing
• Great for families and households

Cons:

• Occasional slower speeds on some distant servers
• Fewer advanced manual configuration options

Pricing:

• 24-Month Plan: $2.29/month (billed $59.76 every 2 years)
• 12-Month Plan: $3.99/month
• 1-Month Plan: $15.45/month

4. CyberGhost – Best VPN for Beginners and Pre-Optimized Streaming

CyberGhost is an excellent choice for streaming newbies thanks to its user-friendly interface and dedicated streaming servers. With over 11,000 servers in 100+ countries, it offers specialized servers optimized for streaming platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and Hulu. These servers are clearly labeled for each service, making it easy to get connected without any guesswork.

Streaming speeds are reliable, especially when using its WireGuard protocol, and the app layout is intuitive across all major platforms—including smart TVs and Fire Stick. CyberGhost also offers a unique feature that displays the current server load, helping users choose the fastest option for streaming.

The VPN is based in Romania, outside the 14-Eyes surveillance alliance, and follows a strict no-logs policy. Plus, it offers a generous 45-day money-back guarantee, which is longer than most competitors.

Pros:

• Dedicated, labeled servers for specific streaming services
• Beginner-friendly apps for all platforms
• Long 45-day refund policy
• Excellent server availability

Cons:

• Not as fast as NordVPN or ExpressVPN
• Some streaming servers may occasionally be overloaded

Pricing:

• 2-Year Plan: $2.19/month (billed $56.94 every 2 years)
• 6-Month Plan: $6.99/month
• 1-Month Plan: $12.99/month

5. Private Internet Access (PIA) – Best for Customization and Power Users

PIA is a highly customizable VPN, ideal for experienced users who want more control over their streaming and security setup. With 35,000+ servers in 91 countries, PIA offers a vast network that reliably unblocks Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and other geo-restricted services.

While it may not offer streaming-specific servers like CyberGhost, its massive server count helps maintain stable speeds and access. It supports WireGuard for high-speed streaming, and its apps include advanced features like port forwarding, split tunneling, and multiple encryption settings.

Another highlight is unlimited simultaneous device connections, making it a solid choice for large families or power streamers who use multiple devices.

Pros:

• Massive server network and strong performance
• Fully customizable VPN experience
• Unblocks all major streaming platforms
• Unlimited device connections

Cons:

• Not the most user-friendly for beginners
• Inconsistent speeds on some servers

Pricing:

• 3-Year Plan: $2.03/month (includes 4 months free, billed $79 every 3 years)
• 1-Year Plan: $3.33/month
• 1-Month Plan: $11.95/month

6. Proton VPN – Best VPN for Privacy-Focused Streaming

Proton VPN is developed by the creators of ProtonMail and is built with privacy and security at its core. But it also happens to be a solid streaming VPN, capable of unlocking Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+ with smooth performance. Its Secure Core servers, while slower, route your traffic through privacy-friendly countries like Switzerland or Iceland for added anonymity.

With 2,900+ servers in 85+ countries and support for WireGuard, Proton VPN delivers impressive speeds and low latency—especially when using its Plus servers optimized for streaming. It also offers one of the most transparent no-logs policies in the industry, supported by open-source apps and regular security audits.

The free plan is good for general browsing, but you’ll need a Plus or Unlimited plan to stream effectively.

Pros:

• Strong focus on privacy and transparency
• Optimized servers for streaming
• Unblocks all major platforms
• Open-source apps and audited infrastructure

Cons:

• Free version doesn’t support streaming
• Premium plans are more expensive

Pricing:

• Plus Plan: $4.99/month (2-year plan, billed $119.76 every 2 years)
• 12-Month Plan: $5.99/month
• 1-Month Plan: $9.99/month

7. VyprVPN – Best for Self-Owned Infrastructure and Privacy

VyprVPN is known for its unique self-owned server infrastructure, giving it a strong privacy advantage and more control over connection quality. With around 700+ servers in 60+ countries, VyprVPN is a reliable choice for bypassing geo-blocks on Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer.

It uses a proprietary Chameleon protocol, specifically designed to defeat deep packet inspection and VPN blocking, which is useful for streaming platforms that try to restrict VPN use. VyprVPN’s performance is stable, especially on nearby servers, and its apps are available across all major platforms including Android TV and routers.

While its server count is lower than others on this list, the quality and security of VyprVPN’s infrastructure make it a viable option for users who prioritize privacy while streaming.

Pros:

• Owns and manages all its servers (no third-party involvement)
• Unblocks major streaming services reliably
• Chameleon protocol bypasses VPN detection
• Strong encryption and zero-logs policy

Cons:

• Smaller server network than competitors
• Slightly outdated interface

Pricing:

• 12-Month Plan: $5.00/month (billed $60 annually)
• 1-Month Plan: $10.00/month

8. IPVanish – Best VPN for Kodi & Streaming Apps

IPVanish is a popular choice for users who stream using Kodi, Fire TV Stick, and Android-based apps. It offers 2,200+ servers in 75+ locations, providing fast connections and decent global coverage. IPVanish works well with platforms like Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, and Amazon Prime Video, though it can be hit-or-miss with BBC iPlayer.

One of IPVanish’s biggest selling points is its unlimited simultaneous device connections, making it a solid pick for families or streamers with many devices. It also includes free encrypted cloud storage (500 GB) from SugarSync with some plans, which is a nice bonus.

However, its streaming-unblocking capabilities aren’t as consistent as top-tier providers, so users primarily focused on Netflix or region-specific libraries may want to consider more robust options.

Pros:

• Unlimited device connections
• Great integration with Kodi, Fire TV, and Android boxes
• Decent speeds for HD and 4K streaming
• Includes 500 GB secure cloud storage

Cons:

• Can struggle with some platforms like BBC iPlayer
• Based in the U.S. (5 Eyes jurisdiction)

Pricing:

• 1-Year Plan: $2.49/month (billed $29.99 for the first year)
• 1-Month Plan: $12.99/month

9. Atlas VPN – Best Budget-Friendly Streaming VPN

Atlas VPN is a relatively new player but has quickly gained traction thanks to its affordable pricing and strong streaming support. It offers around 1,000+ servers in 45+ countries and consistently unblocks Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu. Despite its smaller network, Atlas VPN provides good performance, especially on nearby servers.

What makes Atlas VPN stand out is that even its free version allows streaming access on select servers—though speeds and server availability are limited. Premium users benefit from SafeSwap servers, which rotate IP addresses for enhanced anonymity, and WireGuard support for faster streaming.

It also offers unlimited device connections, making it a great deal for the price, especially for users who just need basic, reliable access to streaming platforms.

Pros:

• Works well with Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and more
• Very affordable pricing
• Unlimited device support
• Offers a free plan (with limitations)

Cons:

• Smaller server network
• Limited advanced settings and customizability

Pricing:

• 2-Year Plan: $1.83/month (billed $49.21 every 2 years)
• 12-Month Plan: $3.29/month
• 1-Month Plan: $11.99/month

10. Hide.me – Best for Advanced Privacy with Streaming

Hide.me is a privacy-focused VPN that also happens to be effective for streaming. With 2,000+ servers in 75+ locations, Hide.me can unblock major streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video. Its performance is particularly strong on nearby servers, and it offers support for both WireGuard and SoftEther, helping users maintain both speed and flexibility.

The interface includes advanced features such as Split Tunneling, Stealth Guard, and custom DNS settings, which more tech-savvy users will appreciate. It also offers a free plan, but that version doesn’t support streaming.

Hide.me has independently audited no-logs claims and is headquartered in Malaysia, a privacy-friendly jurisdiction.

Pros:

• Advanced configuration options for experienced users
• Solid streaming performance on paid plans
• Independently audited no-logs policy
• Offers free version for light users (non-streaming)

Cons:

• Interface may feel overwhelming for beginners
• Fewer servers compared to top-tier VPNs

Pricing (USD):

• 2-Year Plan: $2.69/month (billed $69.95 every 2 years)
• 12-Month Plan: $4.99/month
• 1-Month Plan: $9.95/month

11. Windscribe – Best Free Plan for Casual Streaming

Windscribe is one of the few VPNs that offers a genuinely useful free plan including streaming capabilities. While the free plan is limited to 10GB/month and select server locations, it can unblock Netflix (U.S., U.K.), BBC iPlayer, and YouTube with reasonable performance.

The premium version expands access to over 110 cities in 69 countries, removes the bandwidth limit, and improves streaming reliability significantly. Windscribe includes ad and tracker blocking via its R.O.B.E.R.T. tool, and it supports WireGuard, which enhances speeds.

For light streamers or users who want to test before they commit, Windscribe is a fantastic starting point. However, heavy streamers will need the paid plan for consistent performance.

Pros:

• Generous and functional free plan
• Great for Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and more
• Unique features like R.O.B.E.R.T. (ad blocker)
• Easy-to-use apps with strong privacy focus

Cons:

• 10GB/month cap on free plan
• Limited advanced features on mobile

Pricing (USD):

• Yearly Plan: $5.75/month (billed $69 annually)
• 1-Month Plan: $9.00/month
• Free Plan: $0 (limited servers and 10GB data/month)

12. PrivateVPN – Best VPN for Smaller Server Network with High Performance

PrivateVPN is a smaller, Swedish-based VPN provider with a tight-knit network of around 200 servers in 63+ countries, yet it manages to deliver impressive performance especially for streaming. It reliably unblocks Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and even more niche services across multiple regions.

What makes PrivateVPN stand out is its Stealth VPN mode, which is designed to bypass VPN blocks and DPI (deep packet inspection), making it a good option in countries with heavy censorship. Its user interface is beginner-friendly, while also offering an advanced view for experienced users.

Despite its small size, PrivateVPN offers high-speed servers, zero-logs policy, and strong encryption, making it a hidden gem for those who prioritize streaming access over vast server numbers.

Pros:

• Works with all major streaming platforms
• Stealth VPN mode for bypassing tough geo-blocks
• Simple interface with advanced features available
• Excellent customer support

Cons:

• Smaller server network
• No split tunneling

Pricing (USD):

• 36-Month Plan: $2.00/month (billed $72 every 3 years)
• 3-Month Plan: $6.00/month
• 1-Month Plan: $9.90/month

Choosing the best VPN for streaming depends on your specific needs whether you’re looking to unblock geo-restricted content, maintain high speeds for 4K streaming, or protect your privacy while watching your favorite shows and movies.

Top contenders like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark stand out for their unbeatable combination of speed, reliability, and broad platform compatibility. Others like CyberGhost and PIA shine with dedicated streaming servers and user-friendly experiences, while budget-conscious users may appreciate the value offered by Atlas VPN and Windscribe.

Ultimately, the right VPN will ensure you enjoy uninterrupted, secure access to global content. With one of these 12 trusted providers, you’re just a click away from unlocking a world of entertainment no buffering, no borders, and no compromises.

For social media lovers, a VPN can also be a powerful tool to access and engage with global content on TikTok. Discover our handpicked list of the Top VPNs for TikTok to take your experience to the next level.

1. What is the best VPN for streaming Netflix in 2025?

NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark are the best options for streaming Netflix. They consistently unblock multiple Netflix libraries (including US, UK, Japan), offer high-speed servers, and are less likely to be detected by Netflix’s VPN-blocking systems.

2. Can a VPN help me access geo-blocked content?

Yes, a VPN allows you to change your IP address by connecting to a server in a different country. This tricks streaming platforms into thinking you’re in that location, allowing you to access content exclusive to that region.

3. Are free VPNs safe and effective for streaming?

Most free VPNs come with limitations like data caps, fewer server options, and slower speeds, which affect streaming. Some trusted options like Windscribe and Proton VPN Free offer limited but functional access. However, for consistent and secure streaming, a premium VPN is recommended.

4. Will a VPN slow down my internet speed when streaming?

Yes, using a VPN can slightly reduce your internet speed due to encryption overhead and server routing. However, top VPNs like ExpressVPN and NordVPN use high-speed protocols like WireGuard and optimized servers to minimize speed loss, allowing smooth HD and 4K streaming.

5. Can I use a VPN with smart TVs, Fire Stick, or Apple TV?

Absolutely. Many top VPNs have native apps for Fire Stick and Android TV. For Apple TV and other devices that don’t support VPNs natively, you can set up the VPN on your router or use Smart DNS services provided by some VPNs like ExpressVPN.

6. Is streaming with a VPN legal?

Yes, using a VPN to protect your privacy or access services you pay for is legal in most countries. However, it may violate a streaming service’s terms of service, so use discretion. Streaming copyrighted content without permission is still illegal.

7. Which VPNs support 4K streaming?

NordVPN, ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Surfshark are excellent for 4K streaming. They offer fast connections, minimal buffering, and servers optimized for video performance.

8. Do VPNs work with YouTube TV, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer?

Yes, but not all VPNs do it reliably. CyberGhost, ExpressVPN, and PrivateVPN are known to consistently unblock BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and YouTube TV. Always check that your VPN has servers optimized for these platforms.

9. Can I use the same VPN on multiple devices?

Yes. Most premium VPNs allow multiple simultaneous connections—Surfshark and PIA offer unlimited device support, while others like NordVPN allow 6 devices per account.

10. What features should I look for in a streaming VPN?

Look for the following:

• High-speed servers with unlimited bandwidth
• Ability to unblock multiple streaming platforms
• Apps for TV and mobile platforms
• A large server network
• No-logs policy and strong encryption
• Money-back guarantee to test risk-free