The demand for reliable streaming VPNs has surged as more people seek to access geo-blocked content on platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and other streaming services. Whether it’s enjoying your favorite series or unlocking exclusive content from different countries, a VPN for Netflix or VPN for Hulu is now an essential tool for binge-watchers.
Using the right VPN ensures a smooth, buffer-free experience, even when streaming in HD or 4K. On top of that, a fast VPN for streaming gives you the ability to bypass regional restrictions, allowing you to explore shows and movies that might otherwise be unavailable in your region.
In this blog, we’ll cover the top VPNs for streaming in 2024, specifically selected for their speed, security, and performance with Netflix, Hulu, and more. Whether you’re looking for the best VPN for streaming overall or a service that offers the perfect balance of features and price, we’ve got all the details you need.
| # | VPN | Key Features | Pricing (as of 2024) |
| 1 | NordVPN | – 5,000+ servers in 60 countries- Works with Netflix, Hulu, Disney+- High-speed for 4K streaming | – $12.99/month- $3.79/month for 2 years |
| 2 | ExpressVPN | – 3,000+ servers in 94 countries- Fast for Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime- Excellent security | – $12.95/month- $6.67/month for 12 months |
| 3 | Surfshark | – Unlimited devices- Works with Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer- Budget-friendly option | – $15.45/month- $2.49/month for 24 months |
| 4 | CyberGhost | – Streaming-optimized servers- Works with Netflix, Hulu, Disney+- Beginner-friendly | – $12.99/month- $2.19/month for 2 years |
| 5 | IPVanish | – Unlimited device connections- Fast speeds for HD streaming- Strong privacy features | – $12.99/month- $3.33/month for 1 year |
| 6 | ProtonVPN | – Free version available- Works with Netflix, Hulu- No data caps on free plan | – Free- $4.49/month for 2 years |
| 7 | Private Internet Access (PIA) | – Customizable security- 35,000+ servers- Works with Netflix, Hulu | – $11.99/month- $2.19/month for 2 years |
1. NordVPN – Best All-Round VPN for Streaming
A) Overview
NordVPN is consistently regarded as one of the top VPNs for streaming due to its speed, extensive server coverage, and strong security features. It unblocks major platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and more, making it ideal for streaming enthusiasts. With over 5,000 servers in 60+ countries, it provides excellent global coverage to bypass geo-restrictions and offer high-quality streaming, even in 4K resolution.
B) Key Features
- 5,000+ Servers: Servers spread across 60+ countries, optimized for streaming.
- Security Protocols: Advanced encryption with AES-256 and a strict no-logs policy.
- Streaming Optimization: Works seamlessly with Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime, and BBC iPlayer.
- Additional Security: Kill switch, DNS leak protection, and obfuscated servers for extra privacy.
- Simultaneous Connections: Supports up to six devices at once.
C) Pros
- High-Speed Streaming: Ensures smooth HD and 4K streaming with minimal buffering.
- Wide Range of Servers: Extensive server coverage allows access to multiple regional libraries of streaming services.
- Strong Privacy Features: Top-notch encryption and no-logs policy.
- Reliable Customer Support: 24/7 live chat support for quick troubleshooting.
D) Pricing (As of 2024)
- 1-Month Plan: $12.99/month
- 1-Year Plan: $4.49/month (billed annually at $53.88)
- 2-Year Plan: $3.79/month (billed every two years at $90.96)
2. ExpressVPN – Best for Global Streaming Access
A) Overview
ExpressVPN is one of the top VPNs for streaming, known for its fast and reliable performance across a variety of platforms like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video. Its proprietary Lightway protocol ensures smooth and quick connections, making it a go-to choice for users who need seamless streaming access worldwide. With servers in over 90 countries, ExpressVPN excels at bypassing geo-restrictions and maintaining high-quality video streams.
B) Key Features
- Global Server Coverage: Over 3,000 servers in 94 countries, providing wide access to geo-blocked content.
- Streaming Capabilities: Unblocks Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, and more.
- Lightway Protocol: Optimized for fast, secure, and reliable connections, especially suited for HD and 4K streaming.
- Security Features: Military-grade AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection to ensure privacy while streaming.
- Simultaneous Connections: Supports up to 8 devices simultaneously, perfect for multi-device households.
C) Pros
- Consistently Fast Speeds: Ideal for fast VPN for streaming without buffering or lag.
- Unblocks Major Streaming Services: Works reliably with Netflix, Hulu, and other major platforms.
- User-Friendly Apps: Easy to set up on various devices, including Smart TVs, gaming consoles, and routers.
- Strong Security: High-grade encryption ensures privacy and security while streaming.
D) Pricing (As of 2024)
- 1-Month Plan: $12.95/month
- 6-Month Plan: $9.99/month (billed $59.95 every six months)
- 12-Month Plan: $6.67/month (billed $99.95 annually, with an additional 3 months free)
3. Surfshark – Best Budget VPN with Unlimited Devices
A) Overview
Surfshark has earned a reputation as one of the top VPNs for streaming, especially for users seeking a budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality. It’s packed with features that unblock major platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video, making it an ideal choice for streaming enthusiasts. Additionally, Surfshark allows unlimited device connections, making it perfect for households with multiple users and devices.
B) Key Features
- Unlimited Devices: Surfshark is one of the few VPNs that allows you to connect unlimited devices with a single subscription, making it ideal for families or users with many gadgets.
- Streaming Optimization: Works smoothly with Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and other popular platforms.
- Security Protocols: Offers strong security with AES-256 encryption and the WireGuard protocol for fast, secure connections.
- Additional Features: Includes CleanWeb (blocks ads and malware), MultiHop (routes your connection through multiple countries), and a kill switch for added security.
C) Pros
- Affordable Pricing: Offers excellent value, especially with its long-term plans.
- Unlimited Device Connections: Perfect for users who need to secure multiple devices simultaneously.
- Reliable Streaming: Works well with Netflix, Hulu, and more, offering consistent access to geo-restricted content.
- User-Friendly Apps: Simple to set up and use on a wide variety of devices, including Smart TVs and routers.
D) Pricing (As of 2024)
- 1-Month Plan: $15.45/month
- 12-Month Plan: $3.99/month (billed annually at $47.88)
- 24-Month Plan: $2.49/month (billed every two years at $59.76)
4. CyberGhost – Best for New VPN Users
A) Overview
CyberGhost is highly recommended for users who are new to VPNs, thanks to its intuitive interface and specialized servers designed for specific activities like streaming and torrenting. With a vast network of over 9,000 servers in 91+ countries, it’s an excellent choice for accessing geo-restricted content on platforms like Netflix and Hulu. Its affordable pricing plans make it one of the best VPNs for streaming without breaking the bank.
B) Key Features
- Streaming-Optimized Servers: Dedicated servers for streaming platforms such as Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and more.
- User-Friendly Interface: CyberGhost’s easy-to-navigate apps make it perfect for beginners.
- Security Features: AES-256 encryption, DNS leak protection, and an automatic kill switch to ensure secure browsing.
- Simultaneous Connections: Supports up to 7 devices simultaneously, allowing you to stream on multiple devices without interruption.
C) Pros
- Affordable Pricing: Offers excellent value, especially with long-term plans.
- Great for Streaming: Works seamlessly with Netflix and Hulu, providing a fast and reliable streaming experience.
- Optimized Servers: Specialized servers ensure a smoother and more efficient streaming experience compared to regular VPN servers.
D) Pricing (As of 2024)
- 1-Month Plan: $12.99/month
- 6-Month Plan: $6.99/month (billed $41.94 every six months)
- 24-Month Plan: $2.19/month (billed every two years at $56.94, with an extra two months free)
5. IPVanish – Best for Speed and Privacy
A) Overview
IPVanish stands out for its fast streaming speeds and robust security features, making it one of the top VPNs for streaming services like Netflix and Hulu. With servers across 50+ countries, it allows users to bypass geo-blocks while maintaining high performance. IPVanish also offers unlimited simultaneous connections, making it a solid choice for households with multiple devices.
B) Key Features
- Unlimited Device Connections: Connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously, perfect for families or heavy users.
- Streaming Capabilities: Works reliably with Netflix US, but has mixed results with other platforms like Hulu and BBC iPlayer.
- Speed & Performance: Consistently fast on local servers, with minimal buffering when streaming HD and 4K content.
- Security Features: Military-grade AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and a strict no-logs policy.
- Additional Features: Offers split tunneling, a free SOCKS5 proxy for torrenting, and traffic obfuscation for bypassing VPN detection.
C) Pros
- Fast Streaming: Delivers high speeds, especially on local servers, making it a fast VPN for streaming.
- Unlimited Connections: Allows you to connect as many devices as needed under one account.
- Strong Security: Includes robust privacy features and has undergone independent security audits to verify its no-logs policy.
- User-Friendly Interface: Easy setup on multiple devices, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.
D) Pricing (As of 2024)
- 1-Month Plan: $12.99/month
- 1-Year Plan: $3.33/month (billed annually at $39.99)
- 2-Year Plan: $2.19/month (billed every two years at $52.56)
6. Proton VPN – Best Free VPN for Streaming
A) Overview
Proton VPN is an excellent choice for streaming, especially for users looking for a reliable free VPN option. While the free version has some limitations, the paid Plus plan provides access to streaming-optimized servers that can unblock major platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+. It’s known for its strong privacy features, making it a top pick for those seeking security and flexibility without breaking the bank.
B) Key Features
- Free and Paid Versions: The free plan offers unlimited bandwidth but limits server access and speed. The paid plans unlock streaming-optimized servers, allowing access to Netflix, Hulu, and more.
- Streaming Optimization: The paid version works with major platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer.
- Security Features: AES-256 encryption, a strict no-logs policy, DNS leak protection, and a kill switch provide top-notch security.
- Additional Features: Offers Secure Core servers (for enhanced privacy), Tor over VPN, and NetShield (ad and malware blocker).
C) Pros
- Free Plan Available: One of the best free VPN options with unlimited bandwidth.
- Streaming Access: The Plus plan offers optimized servers for Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+, making it one of the best VPNs for streaming.
- High-Level Security: Advanced encryption protocols and privacy measures.
- Good Speeds on Paid Plan: Provides decent speeds for fast VPN for streaming, especially with WireGuard.
D) Pricing (As of 2024)
- Free Plan: $0 (with limitations on speed and server access).
- 1-Month Plan: $9.99/month.
- 1-Year Plan: $4.99/month (billed annually at $59.88).
- 2-Year Plan: $4.49/month (billed every two years at $107.76).
7. Private Internet Access (PIA) – Best for Customization
A) Overview
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a highly customizable and budget-friendly VPN that excels in privacy and offers strong streaming performance, making it one of the top VPNs for streaming. With servers in over 80 countries, PIA can unblock a wide variety of streaming services, including Netflix and Hulu, although some platforms like BBC iPlayer can be hit or miss. It’s ideal for users who enjoy tweaking their VPN settings for an optimal experience.
B) Key Features
- Streaming Capabilities: PIA works with Netflix and Hulu across multiple regions and has streaming-optimized servers to enhance performance.
- Customizable Security: Offers 256-bit and 128-bit AES encryption options, allowing users to choose between stronger security or faster speeds.
- Unlimited Devices: Supports unlimited simultaneous device connections, making it a great option for households with multiple devices.
- Advanced Features: Includes an advanced kill switch, ad-blocking with the MACE feature, and split tunneling for greater control over traffic routing.
C) Pros
- Affordable Pricing: One of the most budget-friendly options in the market with competitive long-term plans.
- Customizability: Allows advanced users to adjust settings like encryption protocols and split tunneling, offering more control than many competitors.
- Great for Streaming: Unblocks major platforms like Netflix and Hulu, making it one of the best VPNs for streaming in this price range.
- Unlimited Simultaneous Connections: Perfect for users who want to secure multiple devices without additional cost.
D) Pricing (As of 2024)
- 1-Month Plan: $11.99/month.
- 6-Month Plan: $7.50/month (billed $45 every six months).
- 2-Year Plan: $2.19/month (billed $56.94 every two years, with two additional months free).
Conclusion
Using a VPN for streaming unlocks a world of content by bypassing geo-restrictions, providing a smooth, secure, and fast experience across platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and more. Whether you prioritize speed, security, or affordability, choosing one of the top VPNs for streaming ensures a reliable connection without buffering or disruptions.
From the best VPN for streaming like NordVPN for its speed and ExpressVPN for global access to budget-friendly options like Surfshark, each offers unique features catering to different streaming needs. No matter which one you choose, you’ll be able to enjoy fast VPNs for streaming, high-definition video, and privacy-enhanced browsing.
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FAQs
1. Which VPN is the best for streaming Netflix and Hulu?
The top choice for streaming Netflix and Hulu in 2024 is ExpressVPN, known for its excellent speeds and ability to unblock major streaming platforms reliably. It consistently performs well for accessing both Netflix and Hulu without buffering or connection issues. Another strong contender is NordVPN, which offers competitive speeds and a large server network, making it a great alternative.
2. Can a VPN improve streaming speeds for HD and 4K content?
Yes, a fast VPN for streaming can improve your overall streaming experience by bypassing ISP throttling. Services like NordVPN and ExpressVPN are optimized for HD and 4K streaming, ensuring minimal buffering and smooth playback, even on geographically distant servers.
3. Do free VPNs work for streaming services like Netflix and Hulu?
Free VPNs generally have limitations, such as slower speeds and reduced server access. However, ProtonVPN is an exception, offering a free plan that supports decent speeds. That said, to stream reliably on platforms like Netflix and Hulu, you’ll need to upgrade to ProtonVPN’s paid plans or opt for a more robust service like Surfshark.
4. How do VPNs unblock geo-restricted content on streaming platforms?
VPNs reroute your internet traffic through servers located in different countries, masking your real IP address. This allows platforms like Netflix and Hulu to recognize the VPN server’s IP rather than your actual location, giving you access to region-locked content.
5. Is it legal to use a VPN for streaming Netflix and Hulu?
Using a VPN to access geo-blocked content is generally legal. However, it may violate the terms of service of platforms like Netflix and Hulu. While these services may try to block VPN traffic, they do not pursue legal action against users for bypassing geographic restrictions. Always ensure you are compliant with the laws in your country.
