5 Best Smart TV VPNs in 2024 — Easy To Install and Fast

Smart TVs come with many streaming apps, but due to geo-restrictions, viewing options might be limited depending on your location. A VPN makes it possible to access content from anywhere without compromising speed, but not all of them work well on smart TVs.

My team and I tested dozens of VPNs to find the best ones for smart TVs. We focused on those that are easy to set up on various smart TV models and can stream movies without buffering. All the VPNs I shortlisted will also keep your data secure, thanks to high-level encryption and IP/DNS leak protection.

My top recommendation for smart TVs is ExpressVPN. It has a vast network of high-speed servers to stream HD and even 4K content. You can connect it to just about any television, so it’s a great choice regardless of your brand. Plus, it's backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try ExpressVPN risk-free. 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.

Try ExpressVPN for smart TVs >>

Short on Time? Here Are the Best VPNs for Smart TVs 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 Smart TV — Full Analysis (Updated 2024)

1. ExpressVPN — Straightforward to Install and Use With Native Smart TV Apps

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 can easily connect to a wide range of smart TV operating systems and streaming devices. It offers native apps for Android, Apple, TCL, Nvidia Shield, and Amazon Fire TVs. But there are many other ways to connect the VPN to your TV. I could securely stream on my Vizio TV with the ExpressVPN app connected to my Fire Stick during my tests.

Its well-designed app interface also makes selecting servers and adjusting settings directly from your TV screen easy. Plus, with its worldwide network of servers, it’s possible to securely access dozens of Netflix libraries with ExpressVPN. It also works with Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Max, Amazon Prime Video, and many more popular platforms.

The Lightway protocol is lightweight and designed for phones

ExpressVPN also provides custom router software, which extends VPN protection to all devices connected to your network. This is particularly useful for smart TVs that don’t support VPN apps natively, such as Sony and LG televisions. During testing, the installation on my Netgear router took about 10 minutes following ExpressVPN's step-by-step online guide.

Although its $4.99/month subscription price is on the higher end for VPNs, attractive discounts are frequently available to help you save. It also has a 30-day money-back guarantee that gives you ample time to test its capabilities risk-free. I requested a refund via 24/7 live chat and got all my money back 3 days later.

Useful Features

• MediaStreamer. If installing ExpressVPN on your router sounds complicated, its smart DNS feature provides a more straightforward solution for using ExpressVPN on smart TVs without direct VPN support. However, there’s no encryption, and MediaStreamer only works with UK and US streaming services.
• Regularly updated IPs. ExpressVPN constantly refreshes its IP addresses for reliable access to streaming services. This minimizes the chances of being blocked by streaming apps and gives uninterrupted access to TV shows and movies from anywhere.
• Lightway. The VPN's proprietary Lightway protocol offers faster connection speeds and improved reliability, which is crucial for streaming high-quality content on smart TVs.
• Aircove router. This is ExpressVPN’s router with built-in VPN functionality that offers a plug-and-play solution for protecting all your tech. It gives you the easiest way to use a VPN on your router since there’s no installation required. You can learn more about the best VPNs for routers here.

2. CyberGhost — Optimized Servers for Reliable Access To Popular Streaming Services on Smart TVs

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

CyberGhost's dedicated streaming servers make accessing popular platforms, like Hulu and Disney+, easy on smart TVs. For instance, if you want to stream securely on Netflix, click For streaming and type "Netflix'' into the search bar, and a list of Netflix-optimized servers will appear. During our tests, CyberGhost’s specialized servers consistently worked with popular streaming services without frustrating interruptions or quality drops.

You can search for streaming platforms in the search bar

Like ExpressVPN, there's also a smart DNS service that allows smart TVs to safely access content by changing their DNS settings. Setting this up is straightforward – you only need to follow the step-by-step instructions on CyberGhost’s website.

CyberGhost automatically selects the most suitable tunneling protocol for streaming on your smart TV, so you don't need to fiddle with settings. This feature analyzes your network conditions to determine which protocol will give you a fast and consistent connection. When testing this feature, I didn’t experience any buffering, even while streaming entire episodes of Fuller House in HD.

One drawback of CyberGhost is its higher monthly price, especially compared to some other VPNs. However, picking a long-term plan lowers the cost to just $2.19/month. CyberGhost’s long-term commitments also offer an extended 45-day money-back guarantee.

Useful Features

• Smart Rules. This feature allows you to automate your VPN connections based on specific triggers, such as launching a streaming app on your smart TV. This means you don’t have to manually connect to the VPN each time you want to stream.
• Best server location. This feature automatically connects your smart TV to the optimal server based on factors like server load and distance. This saves you from manually testing multiple servers to find the best one for streaming.
• Content Blocker. While primarily designed for web browsing, CyberGhost's Content Blocker enhances the smart TV experience by blocking malicious websites and ads when using the TV's built-in browser.
• Find a fast server. CyberGhost provides information about server distance, allowing you to choose servers that are geographically closer for potentially faster speeds, smoother playback, and higher video quality.

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Vast Network to Securely Access Content on Your Smart TV Without Causing Delays

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try Private Internet Access >

www.privateinternetaccess.com

With 29,650 servers worldwide, PIA makes it possible to quickly find a server close by to access content on smart TVs without compromising speed. The abundance of servers also helps distribute user load, resulting in better overall performance during peak streaming hours. My quality was unaffected when watching the popular European Championships semi-finals.

Add frequently used servers to favorites for faster access

I like that PIA lets you fine-tune your connection settings for the best streaming experience. For example, you can switch between protocols or even lower your MTU size for a more stable connection. We found the WireGuard protocol particularly effective for maintaining high-speed connections during tests.

Unfortunately, PIA doesn’t have native router apps (like ExpressVPN and CyberGhost), so setting it up on a router can be complicated. However, PIA provides easy-to-follow setup guides online. Alternatively, you can install PIA on a mobile device, set up a hotspot, and connect your smart TV to it.

PIA offers several affordable plans starting at $2.19/month. You can test PIA on your smart TV for free for 30 days as it offers a trustworthy money-back guarantee on all plans. If you decide it’s not for you, just request a refund within this period.

Useful Features

• Dedicated IPs. For a small extra fee, you can get a dedicated IPs that provides your smart TV a unique and consistent IP address. A dedicated IP reduces the likelihood of being flagged or blocked by streaming platforms, making it possible to stream uninterrupted form anywhere.
• Shows server latency. PIA displays each server’s response time, allowing you to choose the fastest available connection and minimize buffering.
• PIA DNS. By using PIA's own DNS servers instead of your ISP's, you can prevent throttling, which affects your stream quality.

4. NordVPN — Impressive Speeds to Stream on Your Smart TV Without Buffering

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try NordVPN >

www.nordvpn.com

With its NordLynx protocol, based on WireGuard, NordVPN was the fastest smart TV VPN we tested. With NordLynx, it was almost as if we weren't using a VPN. When we tested NordVPN on nearby servers, we only experienced a 1% speed drop, which was negligible. In contrast, some VPNs slowed down our connection by over 30% on nearby servers.

Use the Quick Connect button for NordVPN's special algorithm to automatically pick the fastest server

Like ExpressVPN, NordVPN is very easy to use, whether connecting to your smart TV through your router or when hotspotting the VPN connection from your phone. You can drop a pin on the map to connect to a server or use the search bar to find a specific location.

While NordVPN is generally excellent for streaming, it had occasional issues working with YouTube. However, I easily resolved this issue by switching off the Threat Protection feature. Threat Protection is designed to block ads and malware, but turning it off temporarily can restore safe access to YouTube.

A long-term NordVPN plan costs only $2.99/month. You can try NordVPN on your smart TV without risk by taking advantage of its 30-day money-back guarantee.

Useful Features

• Presets. NordVPN's Presets feature allows you to create custom VPN configurations for specific activities, including streaming on smart TVs. This means you can set up a preset optimized for your favorite streaming service with the ideal server location and settings.
• Unlimited bandwidth. NordVPN offers unlimited bandwidth, so you can binge-watch your favorite shows in high quality without worrying about data caps or throttling.

5. Surfshark — Unlimited Connections to Protect Your Smart TV and Other Devices Simultaneously

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer More

Try Surfshark >

www.surfshark.com

Surfshark is an attractive option for streaming on all devices at only $1.99/month for a long-term plan. It’s particularly beneficial if you have a large household of streaming fans since it gives you unlimited connections. We simultaneously connected 9 devices, including an Android TV, during testing, and our streaming quality remained consistent. Everyone can stream, browse, and even game on their devices without the need to disconnect your smart TVs from the VPN.

The VPN can also securely access tons of streaming platforms. So you’ll never miss out on your favorite content. During our tests, Surfshark worked reliably with Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and Netflix.

The video quality remained excellent during the entire show

Sometimes, establishing a connection to a server took too long. However, once connected, Surfshark’s speeds were fast and steady, and the subsequent performance more than made up for any initial inconvenience.

You can try Surfshark on your smart TV risk-free using its 30-day money-back guarantee. This gives you enough time to test its streaming capabilities and decide if it meets your needs.

Useful Features

• Customizable Quick Connect. This feature allows you to set up personalized, one-click connections to your preferred servers or locations on your smart TV.
• CleanWeb. Surfshark's CleanWeb feature blocks ads, trackers, and malware when using certain apps on your smart TV. This can lead to faster loading times, a cleaner viewing experience, and added protection against potential security threats.

Quick Comparison Table: Smart TV VPN Features

Here is a quick side-by-side comparison to help you make an informed decision about the best smart TV VPN for your needs. While we haven’t emphasized security below, you can also rest assured that these are some of the most privacy-friendly VPNs we’ve tested.

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.

Our Methodology for Testing VPNs With Smart TVs

We used strict criteria while testing VPNs with smart TVs. Most important was testing out the various methods the VPN offers for connecting to TVs, including native apps, casting, router support, smart DNS, and more. We also investigated the VPNs’ speeds and how they affected streaming quality. Plus, it was important to us that the setup process was straightforward.

Tips on Choosing the Best VPN for Smart TV

Most VPNs in the market aren’t suitable for smart TVs. Some aren’t even compatible with them, while others slow down your connection excessively, impacting your video quality. Here are the top features you should look at when choosing the best VPN for smart TVs.

• Smart TV apps or router compatibility. Ensure the VPN offers a dedicated app for your smart TV or is compatible with your router. This way, you can either install it directly on your TV or use the VPN connection through your router.
• Intuitive apps. Choose a VPN with easy-to-use apps that provide a straightforward setup process. User-friendly interfaces make it simple to connect your smart TV and start streaming right away.
• Fast speeds. Look for a VPN that provides consistently fast speeds to avoid buffering when streaming.
• Vast server network. A large server network provides secure access to content from different regions without performance drops.
• Streaming capabilities. The top VPNs make it possible to securely access all the major streaming platforms from anywhere. You’ll want to pick a VPN that’s been tried-and-tested with all your favorite streaming services.
• Smart DNS service. For smart TVs without native VPN support, smart DNS provides an easy alternative for bypassing throttling without setting up a VPN connection on your router.
• Reliable customer support. Opt for a VPN that offers dependable customer support, preferably with 24/7 live chat. This helps you get assistance quickly if you encounter any issues while setting up the VPN on your smart TV.

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.

FAQs on VPNs for Smart TVs

Is there a free VPN that works on smart TVs?

Yes, there are free VPNs that work on smart TVs, but they have limitations such as reduced speeds, limited server availability, and data caps. There aren’t any free VPNs that can securely access the most popular platforms and stream in high quality. A premium VPN with a money-back guarantee is a better alternative for unlimited streaming with reliably fast speeds.

Can I set up a VPN on my smart TV without installing it on my router?

Yes, you can set up a VPN on smart TVs without installing it on your router, but the method depends on your TV's operating system and capabilities. VPNs like ExpressVPN come with native apps for Android TV, Apple TV, and Fire TV, so you just need to find the app on your device’s store and install it.

If your TV isn’t directly compatible with VPN apps, you can use the smart DNS services offered by most VPNs. Alternatively, you can also cast from a VPN-protected device like a smartphone or a computer, or share a VPN connection from your PC to your TV via an Ethernet cable.

Will a VPN allow me to watch Netflix on my smart TV?

Yes, a VPN makes it possible to securely access Netflix on smart TVs, but it's not always guaranteed. This is because Netflix actively works to block VPN connections, even when streaming your country’s content library. However, premium VPNs are more likely to reliably work with Netflix. The top VPNs make it possible to securely access Netflix from anywhere.

Can you use a VPN on any smart TV?

Yes, you can use a VPN on any smart TV, but the setup method may vary depending on the TV's operating system and capabilities. For smart TVs running Android TV or similar systems, premium VPNs like ExpressVPN have native apps you can download and install directly from the app store.

If your smart TV doesn't support VPN apps, you can configure the VPN on your router, use Smart DNS services, or share a VPN connection from another device like a PC or smartphone.

Which is the best smart TV VPN in the UK?

ExpressVPN is the best VPN for smart TVs in the UK. This is because it offers dedicated apps for various smart TV platforms, including Android TV, Apple TV, Fire TV, and Nvidia Shield. You can also set it up on other smart TVs via router installation or MediaStreamer.

ExpressVPN also has consistently fast connection speeds that are crucial for minimizing buffering while streaming high-quality content. Finally, its extensive network of servers, including many in the UK, allows for reliable local connections and secure access to global content.

Get the Best VPN for Smart TVs

We tested and confirmed that all our recommended VPNs work reliably with smart TVs. They provide multiple options for using the VPN on your smart TV while offering the fast speeds you need to stream your favorite content in HD.

Based on our tests, ExpressVPN is my top choice for smart TVs. It has native apps for popular smart TV apps, as well as a dedicated router app that’s easy to install and configure. Plus, its speeds are excellent for uninterrupted streaming. It even has a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can test it on your smart TV with zero financial risk.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs for smart TVs...

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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