5 Best VPNs for German TV Channels: ZDF, ARD & More (2024)

Most German TV is only available to viewers in Germany, so viewers outside of the country won’t be able to watch their favorite German TV shows. German TV channels and streaming platforms, like TVNow, ARD, ProSieben, and ZDF, can detect your location based on your IP address. If you’re outside of Germany, they won’t let you watch.

Luckily, a VPN can give you a German IP address, making it possible to access German TV from anywhere. VPNs with reliable German servers will work with all your favorite sites, from ZDF to ARD.

However, many VPNs aren’t fast enough to let you stream without lag or buffering. I tested 40 VPNs, and ExpressVPN came out on top. It gave us unmatched speeds and zero buffering. You can try it risk-free since it has a 30-day money-back guarantee. Editors' Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process. Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

Stream in HD With ExpressVPN >>

Short on Time? Here Are the Best VPNs for German TV in 2024

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

Best VPNs for German TV — Full Analysis (Updated 2024)

1. ExpressVPN — Consistently Fast Speeds for Watching German TV in UHD Without Buffering

Editor’s Choice Editor’s Choice Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Tested November 2024

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try ExpressVPN >

www.expressvpn.com

ExpressVPN is the fastest VPN on this list, with speeds much higher than the 25Mbps you need for watching German TV shows in UHD. While testing its German servers in Germany, our speeds averaged 98.56 Mbps — a mere 4% drop from the baseline connection. With this kind of performance, we had a completely buffer-free UHD TV marathon with ExpressVPN.

The VPN works well with multiple German streaming sites including Netflix Germany, Zattoo, Joyn, DMAX, TV NOW, Joyn, ProSieben, and WDR. Since its speeds are fast, you won’t encounter annoying buffering or audio sync problems either.

While in Frankfurt, I had no speed drops on the local server

Its apps are sleek and user-friendly. The search bar can be used to find German connections quickly and the German servers connected within 3-5 seconds during our tests. The VPN also never cut off unexpectedly, which would ruin the moment during dramas like Babylon Berlin.

This level of reliability comes at a cost, though, so ExpressVPN is on the pricier side. Luckily, It often has money-saving discounts on its site. I saved 82% when I signed up for a long-term plan.

It’s risk-free to try ExpressVPN since it has a 30 money-back guarantee. If you decide that it isn’t for you, it’s easy to get refunded via 24/7 live chat. I tested the policy and got my money back within 2 days — no questions asked.

Useful Features

• Chrome and Firefox extensions. With ExpressVPN’s add-ons, you can quickly connect to a secure server in seconds in your web browser without opening a separate app.
• Streaming guides. In addition to 24/7 chat support, if you have questions, I found handy guides on ExpressVPN’s website to help you set it up for streaming TV.
• Threat Manager. This feature blocks pop-up ads, letting you stream with fewer distractions. Plus, it protects you against malware and trackers.
• App shortcuts. Add your favorite German streaming services to the ExpressVPN home screen to quickly connect and watch with just a click.

2. CyberGhost — Streaming-Optimized Servers Let you Stream ARD, ZDF, Zattoo, and Others Seamlessly

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

CyberGhost has servers specifically optimized for smooth streaming on some of the biggest German TV platforms. This includes Netflix DE, ZDF, TV Now DE, and more. CyberGhost’s staff regularly checks these to make sure they work and provide fast speeds. We had no issues with buffering during our tests.

The optimized CyberGhost servers can handle hours of uninterrupted German TV

CyberGhost performed well in our speed tests, too — its speeds dipped by an average of 5% on the German servers. It only took 2-4 seconds for episodes of Die Chefin to load in UHD, and it played with no interruptions.

I really like CyberGhost’s Block Content feature for ad prevention. I turned it on from the privacy settings with just a click. Similar to ExpressVPN’s Threat Manager, it successfully blocks pop-ups from German TV sites that are flooded with ads.

I was surprised to see that, unlike ExpressVPN, its 1-month plan only has a 14-day money-back guarantee. The longer plans do come with an extended refund period, meaning that you can test CyberGhost for 45 days before you commit. A 24/7 live chat agent processed my refund request in under 5 minutes when I was done testing it.

Useful Features

• Connect on launch. Set CyberGhost to connect to your chosen server automatically when you open the app.
• Customizable MTU size. If your baseline internet speed is slow, decreasing the MTU size moves your data in smaller pieces for a faster connection.
• Smart rules. Use this to automatically launch your German streaming app as soon as CyberGhost connects or to set other connection rules as per your needs.
• Servers in Berlin, Dusseldorf, and Frankfurt. The servers in these cities all work with German TV streaming sites.

3. Private Internet Access — MACE Blocks Annoying Pop-Up Ads on German TV Channels

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try Private Internet Access >

www.privateinternetaccess.com

Private Internet Access (PIA) offers a feature called MACE that blocks irritating banners and pop-ups when you watch German TV. I watched Gronkh slashing demons in Diablo IV on YouTube and MACE made the banner ads invisible.

It has lots of settings, so I could optimize it for streaming during my tests. This way, you can tweak it if you have slow internet. I got the best streaming quality using WireGuard and a small MTU size, which sends your data in smaller chunks to reduce buffering. If you’re using OpenVPN, I recommend UDP and 128-bit encryption for watching German TV.

It only took a few clicks for me to change PIA’s settings and optimize it for the fastest possible speed

It produced speed drops of about 5% during our tests, so PIA was more than fast enough for UHD TV without changing settings. That said, servers that were far away caused around 8–12 seconds of extra loading when we tried them, meaning long-distance speeds can be a bit slower.

You can try PIA for free. All its plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you change your mind, getting a refund is hassle-free.

Useful Features

• Latency filter. Sort servers in Germany according to their latency. Low latency servers take less time for your device to communicate with, so there’s less chance of buffering.
• Quick Connect. You can add one of the servers in Germany to PIA’s home screen for a 1-click connection.
• Split tunnel. You can route some traffic through your regular connection and some through the VPN, freeing up bandwidth for improved streaming performance.

4. NordVPN — Meshnet Links Your Devices, Letting You Stream German TV Safely When You’re Out

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try NordVPN >

www.nordvpn.com

NordVPN's Meshnet feature creates a secure network for direct device connections, letting you connect to any device in your network remotely. It offers a secure platform to stream German content when you’re out and about, guaranteeing a safe and high-quality streaming experience.

The German servers work with the German libraries on sites like Netflix DE, DAZN, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and more in HD. It’s also a reliable option for smaller regional platforms — the servers have no issues with DMAX, Zattoo, and ProSieben either.

NordVPN’s SmartPlay feature is integrated to automatically give you a reliable streaming experience

Its servers in Germany averaged a minimal drop of 7%. Though not as fast as ExpressVPN, we were impressed at NordVPN’s ability to maintain fast speeds at any time of day. That said, we did notice some extra speed dips during peak streaming hours, but it was never enough to cause any issues in streams.

There were also a couple of times during my tests that I had trouble connecting to a server, but it always worked when I tried a second time. Plus, NordVPN’s 30-day money-back guarantee lets you try the VPN first and make sure you like it.

Useful Features

• Large server selection. It has plenty of German servers to help prevent overcrowding, which can cause buffering during streams.
• Map-based interface. Tap a location on NordVPN’s easy-to-use map interface, and you’re ready to stream TV.
• Auto-connect. When you find a server that delivers the fastest speeds for watching your favorite German channels in HD, set it to connect automatically when you open NordVPN.

5. Surfshark — Unlimited Simultaneous Connections to Watch German TV on All Your Devices

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer More

Try Surfshark >

www.surfshark.com

Surfshark is one of few VPNs that lets you connect on any number of devices simultaneously. Most VPNs limit your devices, making you disconnect one if you’re using it on too many. I tested this by having my roommates stream Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney+ while I streamed YouTube. I didn’t notice a drop in the streaming quality.

I watched content on ZDF with no buffering while I was in Berlin

Sometimes Surfshark’s server speeds are comparable to ExpressVPN. However, its distant servers are quite a bit slower (with drops of up to 48%). Thankfully, the German servers are all fast enough for UHD streaming.

When I tested Surfshark’s live 24/7 chat support, they weren’t great at answering more technical questions. The ticket system was a better option for complex issues. However, the VPN works great with German TV so you shouldn’t have any problems. Plus, a 3,200-day money-back guarantee lets you try Surfshark without risking your money.

Useful Features

• Static IP addresses in Germany. These are IP addresses that are unique to you, so you won’t experience issues with overcrowding when you use them.
• Integrated speed test. A built-in tool to measure speeds helps you find the fastest server in Germany without separate apps or sites.
• Bypasser. This lets some traffic go through your normal connection instead of Surfshark, freeing up bandwidth for smoother streaming.

Quick Comparison Table: German TV VPN Features

When I was looking for the best VPNs for German TV, I first made sure the VPNs had multiple servers in Germany. This means there’s less chance of them being overcrowded, ensuring you have the best streaming speeds.

I also looked for solid pricing and money-back guarantee policies. Additionally, I checked which VPNs work with smart TVs and streaming boxes. Many German streaming channels allow multiple simultaneous logins, so I also picked VPNs that offer multiple connections. You can use my table to quickly compare the VPNs on my list.

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

Tips on Choosing the Best VPN for Watching German TV Online

To pick the right VPN for German TV streaming, you should focus on a few key criteria. As I searched for the top VPNs to watch German shows, I prioritized providers with these features:

• Servers in Germany. A VPN needs servers in the country to work with German TV sites.
• Fast speeds. I found VPNs with high speeds even on distant servers. Look for providers that offer fast protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN (UDP), or their own proprietary option.
• Flexible plans. All the VPNs on this list have good prices whether you just want a 1-month subscription or need a long-term solution.
• Broad device compatibility. You can configure all the top VPNs for German channels on smart TVs and streaming boxes. They also work on popular desktop and mobile platforms.
• Money-back guarantee. I made sure every VPN I included above has a reputable money-back guarantee window of at least 30 days. I tested each one myself to make sure the process was easy.

FAQs on the Best VPNs for German TV

Is it legal to watch German TV online with a VPN?

VPNs are legal in most countries. They’re legitimate tools used for keeping your sensitive data private and secure. The VPNs on this list also ensure the fastest speeds, so you can reliably use them when you’re streaming German TV.

However, it’s important to be aware of streaming platforms’ terms and conditions when using a VPN. The team and I don’t condone any illicit activity or copyright infringement.

Additionally, there are a few countries that restrict or prohibit VPNs entirely, such as China, the UAE, and Russia. So be sure to also check your local laws just to be safe.

Will a VPN let me watch German TV shows in the US, the UK, and abroad?

A VPN with servers in Germany makes it possible to watch German TV from anywhere. VPNs can also help with connection issues like ISP throttling. If you want to stream in HD without your ISP throttling your connection, the VPNs on this list ensure the fastest speeds to let you watch German TV without slowdowns. Just be aware of streaming platforms’ T&Cs when you use a VPN. The team and I don’t condone using a VPN to break any laws.

Which German TV channels can I watch with a VPN?

The VPNs on this list work perfectly with the most popular German TV channels, including:

How do I watch German TV with a VPN on different types of devices?

If your device supports VPNs, simply install a reliable VPN with German servers. Each of the VPNs in this list offers native apps for macOS, Windows, iOS, Android, and more.

Some devices don’t natively support VPNs, such as Roku and some smart TVs. In this case, you can use connection sharing between your devices, or configure the VPN onto your router. While more technical, a router installation lets you watch German TV safely on all devices connected to your home network.

What if my VPN isn’t working with my German TV service?

There are a few easy solutions to common issues:

1. Make sure you’re using a VPN that is fast enough for streaming German TV channels: Some VPNs don’t deliver fast enough speeds for streaming, causing excessive loading time and buffering. The services on my list have been tested and delivered consistently fast speeds for streaming.
2. Switch servers: Sometimes, the server you’re currently connected to may be under maintenance. Try a different server.
3. Update your VPN: Make sure you have the latest version of your VPN installed to avoid any issues with the app.
4. Contact support: If the above solutions don't work, reach out to your VPN's technical support. I chose VPNs with 24/7 customer service, so you're able to get answers at any time.

Can I watch German TV online for free?

Yes, there are free live streams of some German channels. These include RTL, Zattoo, 7TV, TV Now, ARD, ProSieben, ZDF, and others that you can watch on their respective websites.

While there are free VPNs out there, there are not many that offer German servers. Plus, many of them are extremely limited in terms of speeds and data, making it almost impossible to do much streaming at all. It’s best to go with a premium VPN that offers a money-back guarantee.

Get the Best VPN for German TV Online

Most German TV channels, like ZDF and ZRD, are only available in Germany. However, a VPN with German servers makes it possible to watch German TV from anywhere.

ExpressVPN is my top recommendation. It has the speediest servers and it works with all major German TV streaming sites. The service is also backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try ExpressVPN with no financial risk.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs for watching German TV from anywhere in 2024

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

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