Best VPNs for streaming of 2026: Expert tested and reviewed

A new start and a new year -- and one that you should enter with a Virtual private network (VPN) service on hand.

VPNs are excellent tools for privacy protection, but they offer other benefits for streaming that may surprise you. Subscription services, including Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and Disney+, have largely replaced traditional cable setups at home, but their popularity comes with a downside: some content is restricted to specific regions and countries.

VPNs may help you access streaming services worldwide and avoid these limits, allowing you to stay entertained at home and abroad, as they can connect to servers in different locations while masking your original IP address. You may also be able to use a VPN to avoid geolocation blocks and watch live sports events, although this can be a legally gray area.

In this latest update, we've refreshed our guide for 2026, including New Year's deals, exploring the latest news in the VPN industry, and providing new alternative recommendations in addition to our favorite streaming VPNs.

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What is the best VPN for streaming right now?

NordVPN is my pick for the best VPN for streaming overall. It offers excellent speeds and a massive global server network while supporting enough devices to stream from your PC, smartphone, TV, and more. Regardless of what you're streaming on and where you are, NordVPN also works exceptionally well at circumventing geolocation blocks. Plans start at $3.39 per month on a two-year contract.

If speed is your top priority, another of my favorites is ExpressVPN, available for as low as $2.79 per month on a two-year deal, with four months free. This New Year promotion means this VPN is at one of the lowest prices I've seen.

For decades, the ZDNET team has conducted hands-on testing and research in the VPN space. I also keep track of the best VPNs for streaming and conduct frequent speed and streaming tests to support my recommendations.

If you want to ensure you're finding the right VPN for your streaming needs, read on for my top picks for streaming VPNs in 2026.

Sort by

All Countries and servers Usability Speed and performance Security Price

NordVPN delivers the performance you need to stream your favorite content across every popular platform, making it my favorite VPN for services like Netflix and Disney+.

Why we like it: During my tests, I found that NordVPN consistently performed better than many competitors in terms of speed and stability. The VPN also has exceptionally fast connection times and works well on mobile.

NordVPN's country availability within its server network currently stands at 111 locations. The number of device connections you can use simultaneously is 10, although we would like this to become unlimited in the future.

NordVPN works well with most major streaming services, including Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Apple TV+, BBC iPlayer, and the DAZN channel for live and on-demand sports streaming. If you have trouble accessing content, try another server, or experiment with different countries and regions.

If you run into problems or are unsure which server to connect to for unblocking a specific service, live chat and email support are available. You can also opt to install NordVPN directly on your router, or buy one with NordVPN pre-installed, such as the Privacy Hero 2. While testing this model, I found that NordVPN was able to access streaming services on both a laptop and TV, and I was able to tap into various content libraries without issue. Overall, NordVPN had impressive success rates with streaming services like Netflix.

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NordVPN offers FAQ articles detailing how to stream most of these services securely and how to use the VPN provider's native apps. Provided the country you're streaming from has geographical access to the content you want to watch, use the "quick connect" function when streaming. This feature should select the fastest server available.

Having repeated my streaming tests in January 2026, I found that NordVPN remains a reliable VPN for accessing popular streaming services most of the time. It's a constant cat-and-mouse game between VPNs and streaming services, and so success rates can change without warning, however.

Who's it for: This VPN will suit most users who want a solid VPN to access streaming libraries. Customers appreciate the ease of use of the VPN app and its good speeds, although some have noticed inconsistent pricing.

On a standard two-year contract, basic plans start at $3.39 per month, while one-year plans start at $4.99 per month. If you want more advanced security features, consider signing up for a premium plan, which offers browser protection, ad blocking, a data breach monitor, and cyber insurance.

Who should look elsewhere: Pricing might deter some users. If you're looking for a more affordable VPN for your streaming needs, check out Surfshark or CyberGhost.

Also: Best malware removal tools

NordVPN features: Native Streaming Apps: Fire TV, Android TV, and Apple TV | Simultaneous connections: 10 | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, tvOS, and routers | Countries: 111 | Kill switch: Yes | Logging: Email address and billing information only | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days on Android | Trustpilot rating: 4.1 | Google Play rating: 4.6 | App Store rating: 4.7

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ExpressVPN supports many platforms and devices and has an exceptionally large network of servers, making it an ideal VPN for streaming -- but speed is what makes this option shine.

Why we like it: This VPN solution is quick to connect, extremely fast, and has a server network across 105 countries, now including all 50 US states.

During testing, I found ExpressVPN to be consistently fast, with a download speed reduction that is unlikely to impact most streaming services and one that often outmatched competing services. It works well with a variety of streaming platforms and generally has high library access success rates.

With ExpressVPN, you can access a host of streaming services, including Disney+, Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Spotify, HBO Max, Showtime, and Amazon Prime Video, as well as sports events. If you want to do so without a compatible smart TV, you may have to install the VPN directly on your router or opt for hardware with this VPN preinstalled, such as .

Review: ExpressVPN

You can use up to 14 simultaneous connections, depending on your plan, a recent improvement over the service's previous restriction of eight connections. ExpressVPN also provides an ad-blocker and the option to block explicit content by default.

Who's it for: ExpressVPN is also ZDNET's top pick for the best Android VPN for speed. If fast connections are your top priority, then I would recommend this VPN for streaming above its competitors.

Customers say that while it's expensive at the top tiers, this VPN still offers good value for your money, bolstered by solid customer support. The company is now offering basic two-year contracts for $2.79 per month during its New Year's sale, plus four months of free access.

One-year plans start at $3.99 per month with three months free. You can also take advantage of ExpressVPN's 30-day money-back guarantee.

Who should look elsewhere: If you find the price point too high or want unlimited simultaneous connections, consider Surfshark or IPVanish.

Also: The best smart TV VPNs

ExpressVPN features: Simultaneous connections: 10 - 14 | Kill switch: Yes | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Linux, Fire TV, Android TV, tvOS, and routers | Countries: 105 | Logging: No browsing logs, some connection logs | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days on Android and iOS | Trustpilot rating: 3.9 | Google Play rating: 4.7 | App Store rating: 4.7

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Surfshark is one of the cheapest VPNs on my list, and it's a solid streaming VPN at an excellent price.

Why we like it: It's extremely affordable and will suit anyone on a budget.

In my recent tests, I found that Surfshark's connections to streaming services were reliable, although the speeds did not match some other VPN providers on the market.

Surfshark works well with the most popular streaming services like Netflix, HBO Max, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, DAZN, Hotstar, and Disney+, based on my recent tests, and you should be able to use this VPN to access content whether at home or abroad.

Surfshark attempts to disguise your VPN traffic as regular traffic to circumvent geolocation blockers. But remember, if you're having trouble streaming, you may need to try a different server or country location. Streaming services sometimes block IPs specifically connected to a VPN, so switching locations can remove these barriers -- and this goes for all VPNs, not just Surfshark.

In ZDNET's Surfshark VPN review, we found no domain name service (DNS) leaks, and the service has a strong security focus. Sometimes speeds can be marginally lower than when using other VPNs, especially when trying to connect to a server, but it's often a difference of seconds. Something to keep an eye on is Surfshark's frequent infrastructure improvements, which we expect will continue into 2026 and beyond.

Who's it for: If you're looking for an affordable VPN suitable for Amazon's Fire TV Stick (outside of VegaOS) or Android TV, this VPN is for you.

Surfshark is one of the most affordable, trustworthy VPNs on the market. Surfshark's VPN starts at only $1.99 per month for a two-year subscription plan and $3.19 per month for a one-year subscription. Both of these offers include three months of free access.

Alternatively, you can sign up, use Surfshark's 30-day money-back guarantee, and decide if you want to continue with the service.

Who should look elsewhere: While this VPN is set at an excellent price point, if you want a larger server network or the best speeds available, consider NordVPN or ExpressVPN.

Customers applaud Surfshark's customer service, but some report billing issues.

Also: ExpressVPN vs Surfshark

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For those who love the Kodi media player, IPVanish is the VPN for you.

Why we like it: IPVanish has detailed setup guides for using Kodi with many popular streaming devices, and it works well while accessing streaming services such as Netflix.

In my most recent tests, IPVanish had fast server connection speeds. That said, download speeds sometimes lag behind other VPNs, so you might notice some impact if you stream in high resolution.

Review: IPVanish

IPVanish is a highly configurable VPN. Its native apps are intuitive, and the user interface is clean. The current status of servers is easy to see, so you can connect to locations where the server load is less likely to impact your streaming experience. Additionally, you can view the protocol in use and your public IP address, and its last independent audit has confirmed the company's no-logs policy.

Last year, RAM-only servers have launched in 10 countries, and the company has recently reduced user data required at signup.

Who's it for: Anyone who wants a solid VPN for streaming and, specifically, uses Kodi. It certainly doesn't hurt that subscriptions are affordable, too.

IPVanish's plans start at $2.99 for two years of service.

Who should look elsewhere: If you have no interest in the Kodi system and your main goal is to find a VPN for use with major streaming services, and when you travel, check out ExpressVPN, NordVPN, or CyberGhost instead.

Also: Best free password manager

Note: IPVanish is owned by Ziff Davis, ZDNET's parent company. For more, see our Editorial Guidelines.

IPVanish features: Simultaneous connections: Unlimited | Kill switch: Yes | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, tvOS, Kodi, and routers | Logging: None, except billing data | Locations: 108 countries | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days on Android and iOS | Trustpilot rating: 4.3 | Google Play rating: 4.4 | App Store rating: 4.6

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CyberGhost is another excellent option if you need a VPN for streaming -- especially if you want one with great multi-platform compatibility and a long money-back guarantee.

Why we like it: CyberGhost provides strong streaming capabilities and reliable speeds across services, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and HBO Max. During my previous testing, I experienced some trouble with the anime streaming service Crunchyroll; however, the issue appears to have been resolved in my January 2026 tests.

In my latest round of testing, CyberGhost's streaming speeds were very good, although they were not the best I've come across. I also like the engaging CyberGhost user interface and how the developers have kept the service unobtrusive on PC and mobile.

Review: CyberGhost VPN: A solid VPN for beginners

Another benefit is CyberGhost's 45-day money-back guarantee, which is the longest among our recommended VPNs.

Who's it for: If you need to try a streaming VPN for more than a month to decide, CyberGhost is for you. I would also recommend this VPN to anyone new to the VPN world, as you can utilize its 45-day money-back guarantee to learn how VPNs work and determine whether subscribing for the long haul is right for you.

Customers like how easy the VPN is to use, although they would like to see an improved billing system. CyberGhost's two-year plan costs $2.03 per month, including four months of free access. A six-month plan is priced at $6.99 per month, while a monthly plan costs $12.99.

Who should look elsewhere: If you're looking for a VPN with unlimited simultaneous connections at a similar price point, consider Surfshark. If you're looking for a reliable all-rounder with a vast server network, NordVPN is your best option.

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To help you decide on the best VPN for you, I've listed the most important factors you should consider, including price, the availability of native streaming apps, and country server availability.

VPN for streaming

Price

Native streaming apps

Simultaneous connections

Countries/ Locations

NordVPN

$3.39+ per month

Android, iOS, Windows, MacOS, Fire TV, Kodi, Chromecast, Apple TV, Linux

111

ExpressVPN

$2.79+ per month

Android, iOS, Windows, MacOS, Fire TV, Chromecast, Nvidia Shield, Apple TV

105

Surfshark

$1.99+ per month

Android, iOS, Windows, MacOS, Fire TV, Nvidia Shield TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, Linux

Unlimited

100

IPVanish

$2.99+ per month

Android, iOS, Windows, MacOS, Fire TV, Chromecast, Nvidia Shield, Kodi, Apple TV

Unlimited

108

CyberGhost

$2.03+ per month

Android, iOS, Windows, MacOS, Fire TV, Apple TV, Linux, consoles

100

You may want to do some hands-on testing to find the right VPN to meet your streaming needs, and don't be afraid of using each one of our recommendations' 30-day money-back guarantees to try out different services.

Below, you will find the best use cases for each of my recommended streaming VPN services, based on my frequent testing, affordability, server network, security features, and more.

Choose this VPN for streaming...

If you want...

NordVPN

The best streaming VPN overall. It consistently works well with Netflix and other streaming platforms, and is one of only a handful of VPNs that consistently bypasses geo-restrictions. NordVPN also has a massive server network and fast connection speeds, making it an ideal choice for streaming high-quality video, whether you are at home or traveling.

ExpressVPN

Native device support, an easy-to-use app, and a huge server network with rapid speeds. It offers a wide range of native applications for streaming devices, including Fire TV (outside of VegaOS), Android TV, and Apple TV. Additionally, it has a server network with locations in over 105 countries, making it easy to find a server that can unblock your preferred streaming services.

Surfshark

The most affordable option. Despite its low price, Surfshark offers features such as unlimited simultaneous connections, fast connection speeds, and support for a wide range of streaming services. This VPN provides a native Apple TV app alongside apps for major operating systems.

IPVanish

Unlimited connections and Kodi compatibility. IPVanish is compatible with Kodi, making it a great option for those who use the popular media player to stream content. It is also a great VPN if you are looking for unlimited connections. It allows you to connect as many devices as you want simultaneously, making it ideal for larger households who want VPN protection without spending a fortune.

CyberGhost

A long money-back guarantee. CyberGhost will give you 45 days to decide whether you want to continue with a paid plan -- and unlike most VPNs, the options are a two-year subscription, six months, or one month. While the latter two options are somewhat expensive, CyberGhost is great if you want a short-term VPN solution. If you like it for the long term, you can take advantage of its specialized streaming servers.

When you are deciding on the most suitable streaming VPN for you, consider the following factors:

Price: VPN prices vary, although last year, many of the top VPN provides began shifting their pricing models to compete more effectively. Although the most expensive services can cost upwards of $10 to $20 per month, you can also find solid, reliable VPNs for as little as a few dollars each month, as long as you don't mind signing up for one or two years. Keep an eye on renewal rates, as some VPN providers hike prices after introductory periods.
Contract term: Consider how long you expect to use a VPN. If you're in it for the long haul, consider a two-year or longer subscription, as you tend to get the best prices with the longest terms. Some VPNs will offer longer options, including five-year contracts, although, while very cheap, they are far and few between.
Streaming availability: Many VPN providers transparently publish which streaming services work through their connections. Some of the most popular streaming services, like Netflix and Disney+, will typically work on most, although you may not have access to all geo-locked content libraries. It's often a cat-and-mouse game, however, so availability can change without notice.
Native apps: If you want to access your streaming service on a specific platform or operating system, find out what native apps are available. For example, some VPN providers have developed native apps for tvOS, whereas others have yet to launch their own native offerings. If you're using the new Amazon Fire TV Stick, which runs on VegaOS, native VPN apps are currently limited.
Security: Consider the VPN's security track record. Preferably, the VPN will be open to external audits and will not have experienced any significant data breaches in recent years. You also want a VPN provider that transparently and regularly improves its security posture -- and is transparent about it.
Routers: Some VPNs may not provide native apps for your preferred streaming service. If this is the case, you might need to install your VPN directly on your router, or opt for hardware with your preferred VPN pre-installed.

How to use a VPN with a streaming service

Getty/NurPhoto

Since many streaming services restrict access to content by geographic region, using a VPN can help you unblock services such as Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu by masking your IP address and appearing as if you are in a different region. Change your location, and you can access the libraries tied to your chosen region -- although, if a VPN is detected, the library on offer may only show universally-licensed content.

Here are the steps for using most VPNs with your preferred streaming service:

Choose a VPN provider. Look for one with servers in the region where the streaming service you want to access is available. Our list above has some great options.
Download and install the VPN software. Follow the instructions of the VPN provider to get the VPN up and running on your device.
Connect to a server. Once you have installed the VPN, open it and follow the on-screen instructions to choose a server. Pick one in the region where the streaming service you want to access is available. For example, if you are based in the U.S. and want to access Netflix Australia, try a Sydney-based server.
Log in to the streaming service. After connecting to a server, log in to the streaming service. It should now see you as located in the region of the VPN server you connected to, allowing you to access any content in that region (which would typically be unavailable if you don't live there). If your streaming service is open, it might be best to close and relaunch.
Start streaming. Easy, right?

Also: Best Android VPNs & best Chrome VPNs

Keep in mind:

Using a VPN to unblock region-restricted content may violate the streaming service's terms of service.
Some VPNs do not work with all streaming services.
You may only be able to view content available under a global license if your streaming service detects VPN usage. So, if the library looks like it is lacking content, this may be why.
Access can change at any time. A constant cat-and-mouse game is ongoing between VPNs and streaming service providers.
You might see different results depending on the device you use. For example, when I reviewed the Privacy Hero 2 VPN router, I could access geo-locked libraries on my laptop and third-party TV apps without a problem, but it didn't work directly on the Tizen TV operating system.

Many providers recommended in this list have been subject to in-depth testing and reviews by members of our ZDNET team. We've been reviewing VPNs for years, and have spoken with their management and their users, and developed a generally favorable impression if we've included them on this list.

ZDNET tests VPN services from multiple locations, but we can't test from all locations. Every home, community, local ISP, and nation has a different infrastructure. Once you choose a VPN, it's essential to test across your typical usage patterns and only then decide whether to keep the service or request a refund under a money-back guarantee.

I have tested VPNs for years and will continue to do so in 2026 to keep my recommendations current. All these VPNs have solid money-back guarantees -- otherwise, we would not recommend them.

I analyzed the best VPNs for streaming TV, movies, and gaming below using the following criteria:

Performance: Our top VPNs must meet a minimum performance standard. After all, there's no point in using a VPN while streaming if your connection keeps dropping or lagging despite having a reasonable starting speed.
Simultaneous connections: Many VPNs limit the number of devices you can connect to a service simultaneously. If you have a phone, tablet, laptop, desktop, or smart TV you want to connect to a VPN, you need a service that allows at least five or six simultaneous connections.
Security: There's no point in using a VPN unless its security protocols and encryption levels are up to scratch. We also ensured the development team behind each recommended VPN cares about making security improvements and patching reported bugs.
Kill switch: A kill switch prevents you from having an unprotected connection. It is an important feature for a VPN, as it protects you by preventing a return to a default Wi-Fi connection should your internet connection unexpectedly drop.
Geo-blocks and streaming: VPNs can be key to accessing local content and services while you're away from home. We ensured that our top recommendations performed well considering these factors and are unlikely to slow down your connection while streaming, although we can't guarantee that every VPN will consistently work with every streaming service. We also tested access to geo-locked libraries, although we don't suggest you should.
Platforms: What systems and devices can you run the VPN on? Our VPN recommendations must offer easy-to-use, intuitive apps compatible with various hardware and popular operating systems.
Countries and servers: In how many different countries does the VPN have servers? This can include physical and virtual servers, and whether there are enough -- at least 50 or so -- to provide variety.
Trial length and price: Each VPN we recommend has a solid money-back guarantee of at least 30 days.
Support: As with any subscription software, you may encounter problems with installing apps, using the service, renewing, or canceling. We list VPNs with an available support team.

For a more extensive breakdown, check out our comprehensive VPN testing methodology page.

Latest news on VPNs in 2026

NordVPN says there are no signs of compromise on servers or infrastructure following a data dump and alleged Salesforce environment-related breach.
Pakistan is reportedly battling VPN providers with surprise blocks at the ISP level.
Surfshark is giving Linux users more control with a dedicated IP service.
The EFF warned that attempting to block global VPN usage is a privacy disaster waiting to happen.
Amazon's new Fire TV Stick 4K Select runs on Vega OS, and in an attempt to stop jailbreakers running illegal streaming apps, this operating system limited VPNs. Several are now available, but you won't find the same range as the legacy Fire TV Stick at the moment.

A VPN is not required for streaming movies, games, or TV shows. By changing your location, however, you can unlock certain services or products in other countries. The trade-off is that a VPN will likely slow down your connection -- especially if you opt for a free plan -- because the distance to the server, encryption, and protocol can introduce lag.

If you find that streaming with a VPN is unbearably slow, try connecting to a different server or a different VPN service altogether. Lag can often be minimized with better VPN services.

Many free VPNs will prevent you from streaming altogether or have a strict data usage limit.

Also: Best antivirus software of 2026

Amazon introduced a new operating system, VegaOS, with the debut of the new Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Select. Changes were made to prevent the devices from being jailbroken and used for illegal streaming, but as a result, VPN apps also became incompatible.

Amazon has worked with VPN providers to resolve the issue, but for now, only IPVanish and NordVPN have developed compatible apps. I wouldn't worry too much, however, as other services are actively working on their own versions -- and they hopefully won't take too long.

No, using a VPN while streaming is not illegal in most countries, but streaming services are becoming better at detecting VPN use. While they now acknowledge their customers will often use VPNs, they are not fans of the practice and may limit your library to content available on universal licenses if VPN use is detected.

VPNs, set-top boxes, and streaming sticks don't always work well together. You might have to set up your router to distribute a VPN to all your devices for blanket coverage or connect your TV as a client to your PC and use that machine's VPN-protected network. If you want to stream TV through a VPN, picking up a VPN-supporting device, such as a Fire TV stick or a router with a VPN enabled, is one of the easiest paths.

Yes, although depending on your TV model and any other hardware you have on hand -- such as an Amazon Fire TV stick -- the way you install and use a VPN can differ. For example, a Samsung TV might not have a native VPN app available, but you could install the same VPN on your Fire TV Stick and access streaming services through it. Alternatively, you could install a VPN on your router to provide blanket coverage for all your devices.

Android TV is a variant of Android, as you might have guessed. That means most apps in the Google Play Store, including VPN clients, will run reasonably well on Android TV. Most VPN vendors slightly change their Android handheld apps to have a wide-screen UI for TVs and put those apps into the Play Store.

Since Amazon's Fire TV could best be described as a skinned version of Android TV with Amazon's app store, VPN vendors don't have to do too much technically to make their apps work there too. Just go to Amazon's app store and install the VPN you want.

In 2023, Apple introduced third-party support for VPNs on Apple TV. Some VPN providers, including ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark, have since released native apps.

Unfortunately, there aren't native VPN apps available for all streaming devices. In such cases, you can still use a VPN, but you'll need to set it up on your router or PC network. The same process applies if you want to stream via an Xbox, PlayStation, or Switch.

Yes. In fact, this popular streaming service is the reason many people use a VPN. Netflix appears to have accepted widespread VPN use among its subscribers, so instead of blocking connections outright -- which was often a problem in the past -- the streaming service allows access to its library of globally licensed content when a VPN is detected. Sometimes, it is also possible to access regional content, although watching this content may be against Netflix's terms of service.

It's possible that using a VPN could slow down your streaming speed, but this depends on various factors, such as the quality of your VPN, the location of the server you're connected to, and your internet connection speed.

If you experience traffic slowdowns, check your VPN and your Wi-Fi connection between your device and your router or access point. Sometimes, connectivity issues begin at the source, and in other cases, switching your selected VPN server may be enough to resolve speed problems or connectivity drops.

A VPN encrypts your online traffic, masks your online activity, and gives you a different IP address. It can prevent internet service providers from knowing when you are streaming, which in turn can prevent them from throttling your speed. A VPN shouldn't reveal what you are streaming, but this doesn't mean the activity won't be logged in your account by your streaming service.

Yes, as long as they are supported. Today's VPN providers usually support all major operating systems and will work on everything from your PC to your smartphone. TVs can be more complicated. For example, Samsung's Tizen TV OS does not natively support VPN apps, but you can circumvent these problems by opting for a VPN-enabled router or by installing your VPN on a third-party app or Fire Stick.

We don't typically recommend using a free VPN if you are constantly streaming content, as this can eat up your bandwidth. In addition, free VPN plans will often come with restrictions, including available speeds and country server availability. If you want to try out a VPN for streaming before you commit to a paid plan, consider Proton VPN or Windscribe.

VPN prices can vary depending on your needs. Basic plans are often priced at a few dollars but remember that pricing structures are usually displayed as monthly equivalents, so you may have to pay upfront for the entire contract at sign-up. For example, a VPN priced at $2 per month on an annual plan may cost you $24 when you subscribe, and this may also auto-renew. Taxes may also be added.

If you need a specialized VPN, such as one that can circumvent blocks in countries like China, expect to pay more.

We recommend that you do, as a VPN provides a blanket layer of protection for your online activities. If speed loss is problematic during some activities -- such as gaming -- at least use one during more sensitive activities, such as accessing financial accounts.

The majority of VPNs will allow you to select your location, but their server network and country availability will vary. Some VPNs offer their subscribers over 100 country locations, whereas others may only run a network of 50 or 60 locations. You may be unable to select servers in countries that conduct censorship, including China and Russia.

Latest updates

January 2026: In ZDNET's January update, we performed substantial copy and editorial changes throughout our guide, including service updates, speed test results, and a revision of our FAQs and methodologies. We also added Windscribe to our recommendations.
December 2025: In our December update, we confirmed our VPN rankings and updated pricing and copy throughout.
July 2025: In ZDNET's July update, we changed our rankings and removed Pure VPN. We also conducted copy updates.
May 2025: In May, we conducted new tests of each of our top recommended VPNs and their access to streaming libraries. We also performed copy updates.

Other VPNs for streaming we've tested

Windscribe is another of my recommended VPNs for streaming. I've found it has a reasonable success rate at accessing many streaming libraries, and it also has a trustworthy free plan, although this does have a data cap. Alternatively, if you're looking to access a streaming service from a specific country, you can sign up for a plan starting at only $1/month.

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Private Internet Access (PIA) is a reliable VPN that offers an extensive server network spread across many countries. The service costs $1.98 per month with four months free on a three-year subscription during its current end-of-holiday promotion.

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With end-to-end encryption and a no-logs policy, Proton VPN is highly secure and is constantly improving its security with fresh updates, making it a trusted VPN in 2026. Speeds could be better, but there is an extensive server network to choose from. Proton VPN's two-year plan costs $2.99 per month.

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I've listed my favorite VPNs for streaming in this guide, but if you're looking for my top VPN recommendations overall, check out my guide. Alternatively, if you're looking for a free VPN, I've also tried and tested the best free VPNs of 2026.

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Keep in mind:

Latest news on VPNs in 2026

Latest updates

Other VPNs for streaming we've tested