Best VPNs for smart TVs in 2024 (and how to use one)

As well as listing the very best VPNs for smart TVs, here is everything you need to know about how to set them up on your device and how to use them. 

Smart TVs allow the user to stream content with a minimal amount of effort, via apps on a large screen. But there are some drawbacks, such as being unable to access apps and services based in other countries. Lots of smart TV content is geo-restricted, but a reliable VPN is a simple solution that allows the user to bypass blocks easily. 

We’ll take you through what you need to do to securely access geo-restricted apps via your smart TV with a VPN. If you just want to know which providers we’d recommend, we’ve listed the best VPNs for smart TVs in a brief roundup below. 

Best VPN for smart TV:

1. NordVPN: Our top recommendation for smart TVs. Fast connection speeds, 6,000+ servers, unique features, no-logs policy, and Amazon Fire TV and Android TV apps. Includes a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Surfshark: Our top budget pick for smart TVs. Streaming support, locations in 100+ countries, unlimited device connections, and great speeds. 
3. ExpressVPN: Reliable streaming access, custom router firmware, servers in 105+ countries, Lightway protocol, fast speeds, and industry-leading support. 
4. Proton VPN: Router compatibility, leak protection, strong security, ideal for accessing various streaming platforms, impressive speeds, unlimited bandwidth, and a no-logs policy. 
5. CyberGhost VPN: Optimized servers for streaming and torrenting, massive network in 100+ countries, top speeds, and user-friendly apps for all devices. 
6. IPVanish: Speedy WireGuard connections, can be manually configured with routers, and ideal for US streaming services. 
7. PrivateVPN: Good streaming support, affordable plans, and works with various VPN-compatible routers.

Summary Table

VPNs work by encrypting your internet traffic, tunneling it through an intermediary server in a location of your choice. It masks the user’s IP address, replacing it with a new IP that matches the server location you’ve connected to. The new IP address can be used to securely access platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer from abroad.

Some smart TVs don’t natively support VPNs. You’ll still be able to connect a VPN to your TV with your computer, or by using your router. Many VPNs offer router support, so it’s not tough to find a service that will work with your specific TV model. 

We've been able to narrow the field with our inclusion criteria. Here are some of the non-negotiable characteristics we looked for when picking out the best providers for smart TVs:

• Multiple servers in popular locations like the US and the UK that allow the user to access streaming services via a smart TV
• Works with WiFi routers
• Connection speeds fast enough to watch 4K content 
• Privacy and security features to keep your data safe and secure  
• In order to qualify for one of the top three positions, the VPN must operate a 100% diskless server network and have had its infrastructure audited by a reputable third party

For more information about the specific criteria we used when picking the best VPNs for smart TVs, check out the testing methodology section found later in this article.

Best VPNs for smart TV

Here’s a roundup with detailed information about each of the VPNs that have made it onto this list.

NordVPN is our top pick for users who want a reliable provider that works well with various smart TV models. You’ll be able to access lots of streaming apps and services, including 23 Netflix catalogs, as well as BBC iPlayer and Hulu.

It comes with a built-in Smart DNS feature, working with most smart TVs that don’t support native VPN apps. You can use its Android TV app with compatible TVs. Alternatively, you can share your VPN connection wirelessly, and Nord works with a long list of router models, such as DD-WRT, Tomato, AsusWRT, Netgear, TP-Link, pfSense, Sabai, and more. There are also pre-configured routers available, avoiding any of the hassle associated with the setup process.

Average download speeds work out to just under 200 Mbps, and it has over 6,000 RAM-only servers in 61+ countries. You’ll be able to connect up to six simultaneous devices, and live chat support is available 24/7. Unique features include the custom NordLynx protocol, as well as Meshnet. 

Nord is based in Panama, so it’s not subject to any invasive surveillance treaties or jurisdictional issues. The VPN’s infrastructure and apps have been independently audited, and it comes with a strict no-logs policy for added peace of mind. 

BEST VPN FOR SMART TV: NordVPN is a superb pick for smart TVs, allowing the user to securely stream via various geo-blocked apps. NordLynx, Meshnet, solid router support, fast speeds, and comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of NordVPN.

Surfshark is a budget solution that won’t let you down while streaming content from a wide selection of locations. The VPN can be manually configured to work with routers, and it has 3,200+ RAM-only servers in 100+ countries. 

As well as Netflix, it works with popular platforms like Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, All 4, Sky Go, BT Sport, Hotstar, Disney+, HBO Max, YouTube TV, Sling TV, DirecTV Stream, ABC, Peacock, and CBS. You can easily use Surfshark with a smart TV via preconfigured DD-WRT routers. A Smart DNS feature is an alternative method, working to access US streaming services.

The user is able to connect with an unlimited number of devices, and there are apps for Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, and Android. Despite a lower asking price, average speeds come in at 188 Mbps, so you won’t have to worry about any lag while watching your favorite shows.  

Surfshark keeps no logs that can identify you, which is useful as the service is based in the Netherlands. The country is known to share data with others like the US and the UK, as part of the Fourteen Eyes intelligence alliance.

BEST BUDGET OPTION: Surfshark is a worthwhile low-cost alternative that is compatible with various smart TV models. Servers in 100+ countries, streaming support, strong security, and unlimited device connections. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of Surfshark.

ExpressVPN is another strong candidate for many smart TV models. The popular provider has average speeds of 175 Mbps thanks to the proprietary Lightway protocol, and it’s unmatched in terms of accessing streaming services in various regions. This includes apps like Netflix, HBO, BBC iPlayer, and more.

You’ll also find Smart DNS, dubbed MediaStreamer which works well with various geo-restricted TV platforms within the US. Smart DNS can work independently of the VPN on many smart TV models.

It comes with custom router firmware that offers great functionality, going so far as to include a kill switch. Express is the only service we know of that provides a custom solution, instead of using third-party firmware like DD-WRT or Tomato. Compatible router models are listed below:

• Asus: RT-AC56(U/R/S), RT-AC68U (up to v3), and RT-AC87U
• Linksys: EA6200, WRT1200AC, WRT1900AC(S), WRT3200ACM, and WRT32X
• Netgear: R6300v2, R6400v2, Nighthawk R6700v3, Nighthawk R7000, and Nighthawk R7000P

You’ll be able to use eight simultaneous devices. However, that won’t matter much if you plan to connect with a router, as all WiFi devices will be protected by the VPN while it’s active. ExpressVPN has a strict no-logs policy, while infrastructure and apps have been independently audited. 

EFFORTLESS SMART TV STREAMING: ExpressVPN has great speeds, beginner-friendly apps, strong streaming support, and a custom router app that goes a step beyond the competition. Lightway protocol and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of ExpressVPN.

Proton VPN offers high speeds and strong security, with capable apps for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, Chromebook, and Amazon Fire TV/Fire Stick devices. 

The Swiss-based VPN works with various router models, including AsusWRT, DD-WRT, OpenWRT, pfSense, Tomato, FreshTomato, and Vilfo. There’s also InvizBox 2, which is a capable pre-configured option that is compatible with Proton VPN. 

Speeds reached 620 Mbps during testing, so it’s one of the more performant providers if you’re in need of the fastest speeds possible. As for streaming, it works with apps like Netflix US, Hulu, HBO Max, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer, ITV X, Channel 4, and more. 

Developed by the team behind ProtonMail, it comes with a free version, allowing the user to connect to locations in Japan, the Netherlands, and the United States. Unfortunately, Proton’s free servers can’t be used for streaming, even if there’s no bandwidth cap.  

Plus plans are fairly expensive, and it doesn’t offer live chat support. It might be a good idea to look elsewhere unless you plan to use some of the more advanced features, such as port forwarding or Tor over VPN. 

SECURE SMART TV STREAMING: Proton VPN is a privacy focused service that still manages to access multiple major streaming platforms from abroad. Router support, excellent speeds, limited free tier, and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of Proton VPN.

CyberGhost VPN has over 10,000 servers in 100+ countries, which is one of the largest networks on the market. With servers that are specifically optimized to work with various international streaming services, it’s a great pick for accessing any geo-restricted smart TV apps from abroad.

You’ll find support for streaming apps and platforms in the following regions:

Austria, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Finland, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Korea, the Netherlands, Norway, Romania, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, the UK, and the US.

The VPN is compatible with Netgear, Linksys, and Asus routers, and you’ll find setup guides on CyberGhost VPN’s website. Speeds work out to just under 300 Mbps, so it’s perfect for streaming with your smart TV. 

It does have fewer advanced features compared to the providers listed above, but it’s a solid option if you just want to stream securely. CyberGhost is based in Romania, and it collects no information about a user’s VPN activity.

LARGE WORLDWIDE NETWORK: CyberGhost VPN has a massive network of servers, and makes streaming easy thanks to beginner-friendly apps and lots of support for routers. Fast speeds and an extended 45-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of CyberGhost VPN.

IPVanish is another speedy VPN that is compatible with a variety of smart TVs. 

The provider has guides for DD-WRT, ASUS-WRT, ASUSWRT-Merlin, and Tomato routers, while you’ll also be able to share your connection via a desktop device to get your VPN to work with almost any smart TV. There are also pre-configured routers that already have IPVanish installed.

It works well with a selection of US streaming sites, including Netflix US, HBO Max, Prime Video USA, Disney Plus, CBS, and NBC. Average speeds of 251 Mbps are some of the quickest on the list, and IPVanish can be used with an unlimited number of devices at the same time. 

The provider is based in the United States, which isn’t ideal due to the National Security Agency's potential gagging orders. IPVanish does adhere to a strict no-logs policy, so it won’t have any data to hand over if asked.  

SPEEDY US STREAMING: IPVanish is a great pick if you’re in need of fast speeds and US streaming access. Use as many devices as you like, no logs, smart TV support, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full IPVanish review.

PrivateVPN doesn’t have the largest network, but it does work to access a variety of sites and services from overseas. For example, it can access 11 Netflix catalogs, and it works with some of the biggest streaming platforms like Hulu, HBO Max, CBS, and NBC in the US, along with BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, and Channel 4 in the UK. 

You’ll find setup guides for various VPN-compatible routers, including Asus RT, Synology, DD-WRT, Tomato, Linksys, QNAP, and pfSense. The service is based in Sweden, and it has a solid no-logs policy. 

Connection speeds are faster than the minimum recommendation for 4K streaming, but an average of only 39 Mbps means it's not one of the fastest VPNs and is one of the main reasons why it’s lower down on this list. A collection of 200+ servers located in 63+ countries is another aspect that could definitely be improved.

SECURE SMART TV STREAMING: PrivateVPN is a low-cost option that is compatible with a variety of smart TVs and router models. Works with a selection of popular streaming platforms in the US and the UK, 24/7 live chat support, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of PrivateVPN.

Methodology: How we chose the best VPNs for smart TVs

No two VPNs are the same, and results will vary depending on your smart TV, as well as the streaming service you want to access. Rather than picking out providers at random, we’ve compiled a comprehensive VPN testing methodology. We test and compare the best VPNs in the business. 

Our strict criteria means that only providers dedicated to digital privacy, with excellent usability and optimal performance can make it onto our list. Below, you can see the criteria we used to pick the best VPNs for smart TVs:

• Servers and streaming: Servers in a wide selection of countries that can be used to access popular streaming platforms in regions such as the US and the UK. 
• Works with WiFi routers: The ability to work with smart TVs, whether it’s router apps, desktop connections, or via an app store. Ideally, the service will offer guides, or will have live chat support to help the user. 
• Speeds and performance: Connection speeds are especially important if you’re planning to stream content with your VPN. 
• Privacy and security: Privacy and security should also be on your agenda, even if you only plan to use the VPN for streaming geo-blocked content. 
• Third-party audits: Trust is the foundation of the value that VPNs provide. You are essentially placing more faith in your VPN provider than you are in your ISP. Almost every provider says they are a ‘no logs' VPN. The only ways to test this claim are either through the courts or through audits. We will only consider providers for our top three positions if they have undergone infrastructure audits from a reputable third party. While this isn't foolproof, it's the closest the industry has to a verification process for logging policies.
• Diskless infrastructure: Again, this is a prerequisite to be considered for one of the top three positions on BleepingComputer. While the data stored on a VPN server should be minimal, it could, theoretically, be accessed if the servers were seized or hacked. Moving processes to RAM means that no information can be physically taken from servers and it is wiped on shutdown. It can also easily be wiped as a part of regular security procedures.

How do I set up a VPN with a smart TV?

Many new smart TV models use Android’s OS, so you’ll be able to install a VPN via the Google Play Store or Amazon App Store.

Here’s how to set up a VPN for a smart TV: 

1. Sign up with a VPN provider that is compatible with your smart TV model. We recommend NordVPN.
2. Search for your VPN in the Google Play Store or Amazon App Store.
3. Install the app to your device, and log in. 
4. Pick a server in a location that you would like to connect to. 
5. You should now be able to access apps in the location that you selected. 

Installing a VPN on a smart TV can lead to issues as some devices use a modified operating system. If the TV doesn’t support the VPN, it’s safer to share your connection via another device, set up smart DNS, or set up the VPN on a router.  

Smart TVs and VPNs will differ in terms of compatibility, and the process to connect to a provider may vary depending on your model. Here are some of the more popular manufacturers of smart TVs that are currently on the market: 

• Samsung
• LG
• Panasonic
• Sony
• Philips
• TCL
• Vizio
• Toshiba
• JVC
• Hisense 
• Sharp

If you want to connect to your smart TV with a router, check to see if your router firmware supports VPN configuration. If so, use the setup guides offered by your chosen provider. Alternatively, you’ll be able to purchase a pre-configured router that already has the VPN software installed, which is an easier, if more expensive, solution. 

Which smart TV apps can I access with a VPN?

There’s a long list of services that can be used with a provider. Here’s a brief roundup of some of the smart TV apps that you’ll be able to access with a VPN from abroad:

• Netflix 
• Amazon Prime Video
• ABC
• All 4
• BBC iPlayer
• BT Sport
• CBS
• Disney +
• Hotstar
• Hulu
• HBO Max
• ITV Hub
• My5
• Peacock
• Plex
• Sky Go
• Sling TV
• YouTube TV

As well as streaming services, you’ll also be able to access sites that are geo-restricted in your current location. Some VPNs are blocked by streaming platforms, and results will vary depending on the provider you’ve chosen.  

Can I use a free VPN with a smart TV?

A free VPN is always going to struggle with smart TVs, especially when tasked with accessing streaming services that are actively trying to block providers. In other words, it’ll be tough to find a VPN that works with many smart TVs in the first place. 

The majority of free VPNs tend to focus on mobile users, and don’t have support for routers, or smart TVs. Numerous free VPNs use servers with IP addresses that have been banned by streaming platforms, so you’ll probably have to look elsewhere. 

Free VPNs have also proven to be a privacy nightmare in the past, whether it’s due to providers containing malware, or selling user data to third parties. As such, we'd stick with a premium provider that is able to offer faster speeds and is compatible with VPN-enabled routers.

Smart TV VPN FAQs

Will a VPN work with all smart TVs?

No. Some VPNs can only be configured to work with specific router models, while some TVs aren’t compatible with the Google Play Store or Amazon App Store. If you do happen to have an Android-based TV, it’s as simple as downloading the native NordVPN Android TV app to your model via the Play Store to begin. 

Compatibility will vary depending on your hardware, but you also have the option of sharing your VPN connection from a PC or Mac, whether wirelessly or via an ethernet cable. 

Will I be able to stream in 4K with a VPN?

You’ll be able to stream in 4K with a VPN as long as the internet speeds provided by your ISP are quick enough. Most streaming platforms recommend minimum download speeds of 25 Mbps for uninterrupted 4K content, whether it’s via a smart TV or a desktop device. 

Some VPNs will slow user speeds to an extent, which makes sense because of the encryption process. This was more prevalent a few years ago, and shouldn’t be an issue with any of the providers we’ve listed above as of 2023. We’ve also included the average download speeds for each of the providers we’ve mentioned, so you should have a rough idea of what to expect. 

Why should I use a VPN with my smart TV?

A VPN will allow the user to stream content from other regions, avoiding any geo-restrictions in the process. It will protect your data more effectively from snoops and cyberattacks.

For example, Vizeo smart TVs were found to be “secretly collecting user data and then selling personal user details to third-parties without the user's explicit consent” in 2017, with the manufacturer agreeing to pay a $2.2 million fine after being investigated by the FTC. 

Two years later, the FBI recommended disabling a smart TV's microphone and covering the camera with black tape if you can't turn it off, in an effort to avoid unwanted spying. 

Do VPNs work with all streaming services?

No. Your mileage will vary depending on the VPN you’ve chosen, and the streaming services in question. For example, IPVanish works with Netflix US, HBO Max, Prime Video USA, Disney Plus, and more. However, it can’t access Hulu, and it struggled with Sky Go in the UK during testing. Our VPN reviews detail which services you can expect to access with a specific provider.

Can I use Smart DNS instead of a VPN?

It is possible to use Smart DNS rather than a VPN. However, there are a few key differences to be aware of. Both will improve online privacy, but the method to do so is different. Smart DNS changes your DNS server settings so that it can access regional websites and services.

A VPN encrypts your connection, hiding your IP address in the process. The latter is perfect if you’d also like to protect your data in the process of accessing geo-restricted sites and services. 

Can I use VPN on a Samsung smart TV?

Yes, you’ll be able to use a VPN with various Samsung smart TV models. Samsung uses a custom operating system (Tizen OS) with newer devices which means a VPN can’t be installed directly. 

However, you can use a router to ensure that your smart TV is protected by a VPN. Alternatively, you can share your VPN connection with your smart TV via ethernet or wirelessly with macOS and Windows devices. 

How do I hide my IP address on my smart TV?

Every smart TV has an IP address. If you connect to a VPN with your smart TV, you’ll be able to hide your real IP address from any sites or services you visit while you’re online because of the encryption process.