5 Best VPNs for Spotify — Access Spotify Anywhere in 2024
- Best VPNs for Spotify — Full Analysis (Updated 2024)
- Quick Comparison Table: Spotify VPN Features
- Tips on Choosing the Best VPN for Spotify
- Quick Guide: How to Access Spotify With a VPN in 3 Easy Steps
- Spotify not Working With Your VPN? Here's What to Do
- FAQs on the Best VPNs for Spotify
- Get the Best VPN for Spotify
To enjoy your favorite songs on Spotify while on vacation, you need a quality VPN. However, only some VPNs can do the trick when traveling to countries like China, Venezuela, Cuba, and Ethiopia.
My team and I tested over 60 VPNs to find the best ones that work with Spotify. My shortlisted VPNs stood out in speed, ease of use, network size, security, and privacy.
Of all the VPNs I tested, I highly recommend ExpressVPN for Spotify. Its impressive speeds, global network, and user-friendly interface let you use Spotify without interruption wherever you are. It also has a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can confidently try ExpressVPN for Spotify and get a full refund if it doesn't meet your expectations. 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.
Short on Time? Here Are the Best VPNs for Spotify in 2024
- ExpressVPN — Great speeds to download and stream Spotify at the highest quality. Plus, it has native apps for easy listening on iOS, Android, Mac, and Windows. You can try it without risk since it's backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.
- CyberGhost — User-friendly apps to use Spotify on the most popular operating systems in just a few clicks.
- Private Internet Access — Large server networks can access and stream Spotify anywhere.
- NordVPN — Advanced security features for keeping your data safe while using Spotify on public WiFi.
- Surfshark — Unlimited device connections, so your household can listen to Spotify simultaneously.
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 Spotify — Full Analysis (Updated 2024)
1. ExpressVPN — Excellent Speeds for Streaming Spotify Without Interruptions
Tested November 2024 Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Best Feature | Proprietary Lightway protocol for improved connection speeds |
Server Network | 3,000 servers in 105 countries to access Spotify wherever you are |
Speed | Only a 4% speed loss using its Smart Location feature |
Works With | iOs, Android, Mac, Windows, Linux, routers, game consoles, smart TVs, browsers, and more |
With ExpressVPN’s fast connection speeds, you can stream Spotify at very high kbps (320 kilobits per second is Spotify's max). ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol was consistently faster than most other VPN protocols in my speed tests. Additionally, its large server network spread across numerous countries amplifies this speed by reducing server congestion.
I was impressed by ExpressVPN’s unblocking ability — it works reliably with Spotify and every other platform I tested, even those notorious for their VPN-blocking technology, like Netflix. Using sophisticated obfuscation technology, ExpressVPN makes its VPN traffic look like regular internet traffic. This grants you uninterrupted access to Spotify, just like back home.
ExpressVPN is also serious about protecting your online privacy, following an audited no-logs policy, and using RAM-only servers (erasing all data after each reboot). This means your online activities, including Spotify usage, aren't stored, keeping your listening habits private and secure.
On the downside, the VPN is a bit pricey, starting at $4.99/month. However, you can save up to 82% using ExpressVPN's discounts and deals. I even got 3 months of service for free. Plus, all plans offer 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it out risk-free. I tested its refund policy and found it trustworthy. After canceling via 24/7 live chat, the money was in my PayPal account after 3 working days.
Useful Features
- Easy to use. Apps are straightforward to use and fully compatible with all popular operating systems. It took me only 3 minutes to download on my Windows laptop, connect to a US server, and start streaming Spotify.
- Up to 8 connections. Enjoy simultaneous access on all your devices with a single subscription.
- AES 256-bit encryption. This level of encryption is considered the gold standard in cybersecurity. For Spotify listeners, it translates into secure streaming no matter where you are.
- Network Lock kill switch. This safety feature halts all internet traffic if your VPN connection drops unexpectedly, preventing data leaks. As a Spotify user, your music enjoyment stays private even when switching servers.
2. CyberGhost — Easy-to-Use Apps to Listen to Your Favorite Spotify Tracks Without Hassle
Best Feature | Beginner-friendly interface with handy features for streaming Spotify |
Server Network | 11,690 servers in 100 countries, with ones optimized for streaming and torrenting |
Speed | Minimal speed loss regardless of server distance |
Works With | iOs, Android, Mac, Windows, Linux, routers, game consoles, smart TVs, browsers, and more |
CyberGhost's apps feature an intuitive interface across all platforms, so the VPN is simple to use with Spotify, even if you’re totally new to VPNs. With options to choose the best server location and save your favorite servers, it’s easy to connect to the best server, so you can start streaming your favorite music in a few clicks.
It also offers a large server network with good speeds. You can sort servers by distance, allowing you to quickly find and connect to the closest server where your desired Spotify content is available, thus minimizing potential speed drops. I’m in Europe, and I only had a 5% reduction in speed testing European servers. Even servers 5,000+km away from my location didn't cause Spotify to stutter.
CyberGhost offers 256-bit encryption and various protocols to secure your Spotify streaming. Its audited no-logs policy and frequent transparency reports contribute to keeping your Spotify listening habits private.
The only thing I didn’t like about CyberGhost is that its monthly plans come with a shorter money-back guarantee and a higher price. However, its long-term plan costs only $2.19/month, and you can use it on up to 7 devices at once. Plus, with its extended money-back guarantee, you can use CyberGhost with Spotify free for 45 days.
Useful Features
- Optimized servers. CyberGhost has optimized servers for streaming, torrenting, and gaming. Expand the app, click on your preferred online activity, and a list of optimized servers will be displayed on your right-hand side.
- Smart rules. This feature lets you customize how CyberGhost behaves under different conditions. For example, you can set it to connect automatically when you open Spotify, providing you with a seamless and secure streaming experience.
- Prevent IP/DNS leaks. Like ExpressVPN, CyberGhost has integrated IP/DNS leak protection which ensures your online identity stays hidden as you stream your favorite songs on Spotify.
3. Private Internet Access — Vast Network to Stream Spotify From Anywhere
Best Feature | Thousands of IP addresses to choose from, so you always have access to your favorite music |
Server Network | 29,650 servers in 91 countries, including ones optimized for streaming |
Speed | Very fast on nearby servers, but a bit slower over long distances |
Works With | iOs, Android, Mac, Windows, Linux, routers, game consoles, smart TVs, browsers, and more |
PIA has servers worldwide, including 53 US locations, so you have plenty of options to access Spotify. Such a vast network also means there's less chance of interruptions because of overcrowding. I tested PIA’s local servers in Europe, and my average download speed decreased by only 10%.
In terms of security, it offers fully customizable features. I appreciate the flexibility to tweak settings to enhance security or speed, depending on my immediate requirements. I prefer the fast WireGuard protocol to enhance my speed. However, choosing OpenVPN allows you to pick your level of encryption — 128-bit or 256-bit.
I was concerned with the VPN being based in the US, at the heart of the 5 Eyes Alliance, known for collecting citizen data and sharing it with foreign governments. However, the VPN operates a strict no-logs policy and undergoes third-party audits to prove its privacy claims. This means your Spotify streaming habits remain private despite the jurisdiction.
PIA offers a range of pricing plans, but its long-term option is the best value for money at $2.19/month. Like ExpressVPN, PIA offers a 30-day money-back guarantee to try it out risk-free. You can easily get a refund; just contact 24/7 custom support via email or live chat.
Useful Features
- Unlimited simultaneous connections. With PIA, you can listen to your favorite songs and podcasts on Spotify on any number of devices.
- Split tunneling. This feature allows you to decide which apps use the VPN and which don't. You could set Spotify to use the VPN, ensuring a secure and private connection, while other apps connect to the internet normally, preserving your device's speed and performance.
4. NordVPN — Robust Security Features to Keep Your Data and Spotify Account Protected
Best Feature | A selection of advanced safety features for a piece of mind |
Server Network | 6,700 servers in 111 countries to listen to Spotify while traveling |
Speed | Good speeds across the network so you can stream from anywhere |
Works With | iOs, Android, Mac, Windows, Linux, routers, game consoles, smart TVs, browsers, and more |
NordVPN uses the highest available 256 AES-bit encryption to keep your data safe from hackers while streaming on Spotify. On top of that, its proprietary NordLynx protocol keeps your connection highly secure without compromising speed. It even has a Dark Web Monitor, which sends notifications if any of your online accounts, such as Spotify, suffer a breach.
The VPN's server network consistently provides fast speeds. It means you can stream your music without any annoying interruptions or lag, no matter the server you connect to. I had a speed loss of 18% on NordVPN’s US server I tested from the UK. This is still really good for such long distances.
My only issue with NordVPN was that I was unable to access certain websites like YouTube and Reddit with Threat Protection enabled. To resolve this, I had to switch to Threat Protection Lite. Then I could easily access popular US streaming platforms, including Spotify.
NordVPN also provides a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to test out its Spotify performance risk-free. Its support is readily available 24/7 if you encounter any issues.
Useful Features
- Split Tunneling. Split tunneling with NordVPN lets you decide which apps use the VPN connection. You can channel your Spotify app through the VPN to access global content while your other online activities remain unaffected by the VPN.
- Obfuscated servers. These servers are designed to mask VPN traffic as regular internet traffic. If you're in a region where Spotify is blocked, obfuscation hides your VPN use, ensuring uninterrupted access to your music.
5. Surfshark — Unlimited Simultaneous Connections to Listen to Spotify on Your Favorite Devices
Best Feature | Use Spotify on unlimited devices and only pay $1.99/month for a long-term plan |
Server Network | 3,200 servers in 100 countries to easily bypass geoblocks |
Speed | Good speeds with an average speed drop of 17% |
Works With | iOs, Android, Mac, Windows, Linux, routers, game consoles, smart TVs, browsers, and more |
One of Surfshark's most compelling features is its unlimited device connections. So, if you’re traveling with your family, all of you can listen to Spotify tracks across all your devices simultaneously. The VPN is also compatible with the most popular operating systems, including smartphones, tablets, computers, and more.
Its Camouflage mode hides your VPN use, while strong encryption and multiple protocols protect your data. A kill switch keeps your Spotify streaming private even if the VPN disconnects unexpectedly. I’ve run multiple DNS and IP leak tests on Surfshark and never detected data exposure.
I found it a bit inconvenient not to be able to refresh speed metrics or use the built-in speed test while connected to a server. However, it’s not a big deal since disconnecting only takes a click. Once disconnected, you can use the speed test feature to find the fastest server for Spotify.
If you have any questions, contact support via live chat or email; they're available 24/7. Plus, Surfshark offers a 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans. You can test its Spotify compatibility and get your money back if you are not 100% happy.
Useful Features
- NoBorders mode. Surfshark's NoBorders mode helps you use the VPN on restricted networks, like school and work. So you can keep using your Spotify account wherever you are.
- Bypasser. Bypasser, or split tunneling, allows you to select apps that bypass the VPN. You can direct your Spotify traffic through the VPN while using your regular internet connection for other apps like banking or food delivery.
Quick Comparison Table: Spotify VPN Features
To help you make an informed decision, I've compiled a table that compares the best VPNs for Spotify across several critical aspects, including price and speed.
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 Spotify
I determined the best VPNs for Spotify by analyzing several key aspects, such as connection speed, server network, ease of use, security, and more. If you’d rather do your own research, here’s what you should consider when choosing the best Spotify VPN:
- Fast speed. For Spotify streaming, you need a fast VPN to prevent stuttering and maintain good audio quality. I tested VPN speeds using various online tools, monitoring how quickly songs loaded and played.
- A large server network. The more servers a VPN has, the better your chances of finding a fast, uncrowded server. It also means more location choices, making it easier to access Spotify from various regions.
- Easy to use. The best VPNs for Spotify should be easy to navigate. I evaluated this by downloading various VPN apps and assessing the simplicity of their user interfaces and setup processes.
- Strong security features. A VPN should protect your data and maintain your privacy. I checked for high-grade encryption, a kill switch, IP/DNS leak protection, and no-logs policies during my evaluation.
- Obfuscation technology. This helps disguise VPN traffic, making it harder to get detected and blocked. Look for VPNs that offer this feature, especially if you want to use a VPN on restricted networks, like work and school.
- Value for money. All the VPNs on my list are affordable and offer various subscription options.
- Trustworthy money-back guarantee. A good VPN should let you test its service risk-free. I only included VPNs that made it easy to cancel and receive a refund within the guarantee period.
Quick Guide: How to Access Spotify With a VPN in 3 Easy Steps
- Download a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN for Spotify because of its impressive speeds and global network to listen to Spotify in the highest quality no matter where you are.
- Connect to a server. Choose a VPN server closest to your location for the best speed.
- Start listening. You can now enjoy your favorite tracks on Spotify.
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.
Spotify not Working With Your VPN? Here's What to Do
Most issues associated with Spotify and VPN connectivity are typically straightforward to resolve. Here are some practical troubleshooting suggestions to implement if your VPN stops working with Spotify:
- Change your Spotify region. Spotify uses your billing address to determine your location. To change it, go to your Spotify settings and update your country. Add a payment method from the supported country, and after the next billing cycle, you'll have access to that region's Spotify library.
- Create a new Spotify account. If you want to listen to music immediately, or you don’t have a payment method in another country, you’ll need to create a new account altogether.
- Update your VPN. Not updating your VPN can lead to compatibility problems with Spotify. Make sure you have the newest version.
- Switch VPN servers. Spotify might have blocked the IP of your current VPN server. You can remedy this by switching to a different server and refreshing your browser or restarting the Spotify app.
- Use obfuscation. This feature, available on some VPNs, can help you avoid Spotify's VPN detection by masking your VPN traffic to look like regular internet traffic.
- Clear your cache and cookies. If Spotify stored your location when you accessed it without a VPN, clearing your cache and cookies will force it to use the IP of your VPN server.
- Use Incognito mode. This mode doesn't store any cookies or cache, helping you avoid Spotify's VPN detection.
- Change the VPN's protocol. You can manually select a different protocol if the one automatically chosen by your VPN isn't working with Spotify.
- Check your proxy settings. Alter your computer's proxy settings to auto-detect proxy or do not detect proxy.
- Check for leaks. Run a DNS/IP leak test, I prefer ipleak.net. If you find that your data is leaking, disabling IPv6 on your device or disabling WebRTC in your browser settings can help.
- Flush your DNS. Clearing all old DNS data from your device makes it more difficult for Spotify to flag your connection.
- Restart your device. Restarting can refresh your settings and potentially resolve any lingering issues.
- Contact customer service. Get in touch with your VPN's customer support for further assistance. They might be familiar with the issue and might know how to fix it.
- Get a new VPN. If none of the above methods work, download a reputable VPN that’s tested for Spotify, like ExpressVPN.
FAQs on the Best VPNs for Spotify
Is Spotify safe and free?
Spotify offers a free and premium (paid) version. Premium users can listen to music ad-free, download tracks for offline listening, and enjoy better audio quality. Like many online services, Spotify collects data on user behavior. Using a VPN with a strict no-logs policy protects your personal information from prying eyes.
If you download the official Spotify app from legitimate sources like the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or the official Spotify website, it's generally safe to use. Always be cautious of third-party applications or unofficial downloads that claim to be related to Spotify, as they might contain malware.
Why isn't my Spotify working?
Your Spotify may not be working due to network connectivity issues, application errors, or regional restrictions. Check your internet connection first. If it's stable and you're still facing issues, try reinstalling the Spotify app.
Is it legal to use a VPN for Spotify?
It's legal to use a VPN in most countries. Still, to avoid breaking any laws, check the rules and regulations of the respective country before using your VPN. To access your Spotify account, simply launch your VPN and connect to a server. However, keep in mind that doing so may also violate Spotify's terms of service. While Spotify generally doesn't penalize users for this, they reserve the right to do so.
Why can't I find Spotify in the app store?
You might not find Spotify in your app store if it's not available in your region. A VPN can help you by changing your virtual location. Just make sure to pick a VPN that has servers in a region where Spotify is available.
Can I use a free VPN for Spotify?
Yes, but it’s not recommended. Free VPNs often have bandwidth limitations, slow speeds, and unreliable connections. On top of that, many contain malware, which can endanger your device and your data. A premium VPN is a better alternative for Spotify. Iit comes with fast servers worldwide, so you can stream your favorite songs on Spotify uninterrupted. Plus, they offer money-back guarantees.
Can I get Spotify cheaper with a VPN?
You can potentially get cheaper Spotify subscriptions. However, this might violate Spotify's terms of service. Also, note that this is only possible if you’re getting your Premium subscription for the first time. In that case, changing your Spotify region with a VPN is easy. But, if you’re trying to renew your subscription, you’ll need to have a payment method that’s tied to a billing address in your new country.
My team and I don’t condone using a VPN for any fraudulent or illegal activity. Before you try using a VPN to get a cheaper Spotify subscription, read Spotify’s Terms of Service to avoid account suspensions.
Get the Best VPN for Spotify
Among hundreds of VPNs, only a handful can reliably access Spotify while you're traveling. It's essential to choose a VPN that has been thoroughly tested and proven to work with Spotify. The ideal VPN needs to have a large server network, impressive speeds, and user-friendly apps to make your Spotify streaming a breeze.
ExpressVPN stands out as the best VPN for Spotify. It has thousands of fast servers, great security and privacy features, and it’s simple to install and use. Plus, it has a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try ExpressVPN for Spotify without risk.
To summarize, these are the best VPNs for Spotify...
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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