Best VPN for Streaming in 2025

In 2025, we've identified the top 5 VPNs that reliably unblock Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and other popular streaming platforms with the fastest speeds

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Why You Need a VPN for Streaming

Streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer restrict content based on your geographical location due to licensing agreements. A quality VPN helps you:

  • Access your home country's content library while traveling abroad
  • Unlock shows and movies not available in your region
  • Bypass ISP throttling for smoother streaming
  • Protect your privacy while watching content online

However, not all VPNs can reliably bypass streaming platform restrictions. Many services are blocked by sophisticated VPN detection systems. Through extensive testing, we've identified the VPNs that consistently work with major streaming platforms.

Our Top 5 VPNs for Streaming - 2025 Comparison

VPN Streaming Platforms Unblocked Speed (Mbps) Server Count Price (Monthly)
ExpressVPN Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Amazon Prime 85+ 3,000+ $4.99
NordVPN Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, HBO Max 80+ 6,300+ $3.09
Surfshark Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Amazon Prime 75+ 3,200+ $1.99
Private Internet Access Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime 70+ 35,000+ $2.03
PureVPN Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney+ 65+ 6,500+ $3.66

In-Depth Reviews of the Best Streaming VPNs

1. ExpressVPN - Best Overall VPN for Streaming

9.8/10

ExpressVPN consistently tops our list as the best VPN for streaming due to its unparalleled ability to bypass geo-restrictions while maintaining excellent connection speeds. During our tests, it successfully accessed Netflix libraries in 15 different countries, along with Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video.

  • Lightning-fast speeds ideal for 4K streaming
  • Works with virtually all streaming platforms
  • 3,000+ servers in 94 countries
  • MediaStreamer DNS for devices that don't support VPNs
  • No-logs policy verified by independent audits

Pros

  • Most reliable for unblocking streaming services
  • Consistently fast speeds worldwide
  • Easy-to-use apps for all devices
  • 24/7 live chat support

Cons

  • More expensive than competitors
  • Only 5 simultaneous connections
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30-day money-back guarantee

2. NordVPN - Best for Netflix & Security

9.5/10

NordVPN offers an excellent balance of streaming capabilities, security features, and affordability. Its specialized "SmartPlay" technology combines VPN and Smart DNS features to reliably access geo-blocked content. We successfully tested it with Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and HBO Max.

  • 6,300+ servers in 118 countries (many optimized for streaming)
  • Double VPN and Onion Over VPN for extra security
  • No bandwidth throttling
  • 10 simultaneous connections
  • CyberSec feature blocks ads and malware

Pros

  • Excellent Netflix unblocking capabilities
  • Strong security and privacy features
  • Competitive pricing, especially long-term plans
  • Fast enough for 4K streaming

Cons

  • Desktop app can be slow to connect sometimes
  • Not all servers work with streaming services
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30-day money-back guarantee

3. Surfshark - Best Budget VPN for Streaming

9.2/10

Surfshark delivers impressive streaming capabilities at one of the lowest prices in the market. Despite being relatively new, it performs exceptionally well at unblocking Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and Amazon Prime. Its unlimited simultaneous connections make it perfect for households with multiple devices.

  • Unlimited simultaneous connections
  • CleanWeb feature blocks ads and malware
  • 3,200+ servers in 65 countries
  • Whitelister (split tunneling) feature
  • No-logs policy

Pros

  • Excellent value for money
  • Consistently unblocks major streaming platforms
  • Unlimited device connections
  • User-friendly interface

Cons

  • Smaller server network than some competitors
  • Speeds can be inconsistent on distant servers
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30-day money-back guarantee

4. Private Internet Access - Largest Server Network

8.8/10

Private Internet Access (PIA) boasts the largest server network of any VPN we've tested, with over 35,000 servers worldwide. This extensive network helps it reliably access geo-blocked content on Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime. While not as consistent as our top picks, it's a solid choice for budget-conscious streamers.

  • 35,000+ servers in 78 countries
  • 10 simultaneous connections
  • MACE ad and malware blocking
  • Proven no-logs policy (verified in court)
  • Open-source apps for transparency

Pros

  • Massive server network reduces congestion
  • Highly configurable for advanced users
  • One of the most affordable options
  • Strong privacy credentials

Cons

  • Doesn't work with BBC iPlayer
  • Interface isn't as polished as competitors
  • Based in US (Five Eyes jurisdiction)
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30-day money-back guarantee

5. PureVPN - Good All-Rounder

8.5/10

PureVPN has significantly improved its service in recent years and now reliably unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+. With 6,500+ servers in 78 countries, it offers plenty of options for accessing geo-restricted content. While not as fast as our top picks, it provides good value for money.

  • 6,500+ servers in 78 countries
  • 10 simultaneous connections
  • Dedicated IP option available
  • No-logs policy audited by KPMG
  • Split tunneling feature

Pros

  • Large server network optimized for streaming
  • Affordable long-term plans
  • Works with most major streaming services
  • 24/7 customer support

Cons

  • Past privacy concerns (though now resolved)
  • Speeds can be inconsistent
  • Doesn't work with Hulu
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31-day money-back guarantee

How We Selected These VPNs for Streaming

Our recommendations are based on comprehensive research analyzing thousands of user reviews, expert opinions, and verified performance data from reliable sources. Here's how we determine our top picks:

  1. Community Feedback:We aggregate and analyze user reports from forums, review platforms, and social media to understand real-world performance with streaming services.
  2. Expert Analysis: We compile data from trusted tech publications and streaming-focused VPN reviews across the web.
  3. Feature Comparison: We evaluate each VPN's server locations, connection speeds, unblocking capabilities, and value for money based on publicly available information.
  4. Company Reputation: We assess each provider's track record for reliability, customer service, and transparency.
  5. Value Assessment: We compare pricing plans and money-back guarantees to recommend the best options for different budgets.

We regularly update our recommendations based on the latest industry developments and user experiences to ensure our suggestions remain current and accurate.

How to Choose the Best VPN for Streaming

When selecting a VPN specifically for streaming, consider these key factors:

1. Streaming Platform Compatibility

Not all VPNs work with all streaming services. If you primarily want to watch Netflix US from abroad, you'll need a VPN that consistently bypasses Netflix's VPN blocks. Similarly, BBC iPlayer requires a VPN with UK servers that aren't blacklisted.

2. Connection Speed

Streaming, especially in 4K, requires significant bandwidth. Look for VPNs with minimal speed loss (less than 20% reduction from your base speed is ideal). Our speed tests show that ExpressVPN and NordVPN typically have the smallest impact on connection speeds.

3. Server Locations

The more server locations a VPN offers, the more content libraries you can access. For example, to watch Japanese Netflix, you'll need servers in Japan. Our top picks all have extensive global server networks.

4. Simultaneous Connections

If you have multiple devices or share your VPN with family members, look for services that allow enough simultaneous connections. Surfshark stands out by offering unlimited connections.

5. Money-Back Guarantee

All our recommended VPNs offer at least a 30-day money-back guarantee. This lets you test the service with your preferred streaming platforms risk-free.

Still Not Sure Which VPN is Right for You?

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VPN Streaming FAQs

In most countries, using a VPN is perfectly legal. However, bypassing geo-restrictions may violate the terms of service of streaming platforms. While unlikely, streaming services could theoretically terminate your account if they detect VPN usage. In practice, they typically just block the VPN connection.

Netflix aggressively blocks VPN IP addresses. When Netflix detects that an IP belongs to a VPN server, it blocks access to its content. The best VPNs for Netflix continuously rotate their IP addresses and use other techniques to stay ahead of these blocks.

We don't recommend free VPNs for streaming. Most free services:

  • Are blocked by major streaming platforms
  • Have severe speed limitations that make streaming difficult
  • Impose data caps that prevent extended viewing
  • May compromise your privacy with ads or data collection

The small monthly cost of a premium VPN is worth it for reliable, high-quality streaming.

Setting up a VPN for streaming is straightforward:

  1. Choose one of our recommended VPN providers
  2. Sign up and download the app for your device
  3. Connect to a server in the country whose content you want to access
  4. Open your streaming service and enjoy the content

If you have trouble accessing content, try clearing your browser cookies or connecting to a different server in the same country.

For households with multiple devices, we recommend:

  • Surfshark: Unlimited simultaneous connections
  • Private Internet Access: 10 simultaneous connections
  • PureVPN: 10 simultaneous connections

ExpressVPN and NordVPN allow 5–6 connections, which is sufficient for most individuals but may be limiting for larger families.

Final Verdict: Best VPN for Streaming in 2025

After extensive testing, our top recommendations for streaming are:

  • Best Overall: ExpressVPN - Most reliable for unblocking all major platforms with the fastest speeds
  • Best for Netflix: NordVPN - Excellent combination of streaming access and security features
  • Best Budget Option: Surfshark - Affordable yet powerful with unlimited connections

All our recommended VPNs offer money-back guarantees, so you can test them with your preferred streaming services risk-free. Remember that streaming platforms continually update their VPN blocking techniques, so even the best VPNs may occasionally require server switching or troubleshooting.

For most users looking for the most reliable streaming experience, we suggest starting with ExpressVPN and taking advantage of its 30-day guarantee to test it with your favorite platforms.

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