How to Watch Chinese TV From Anywhere in 2024

You can watch Chinese TV on many streaming platforms (live or on demand). Some of them (like iQIY or WeTV) are available worldwide, and some (like Youku, Sling TV, or OnDemandChina) are available only in specific countries.

With a VPN, you can safely watch Chinese TV from anywhere. It can provide an IP address from most countries (including China) and keep your online activity private with military-grade encryption. Plus, it can help prevent ISP throttling, ensuring HD streaming with no delays.

My team and I tested 30+ VPNs for Chinese TV, and ExpressVPN stands out as the best option. It offers high-speed servers in China and all over the world, military-grade encryption, and a strict no-logs policy. You can try ExpressVPN risk-free due to its 30-day money-back guarantee, making it a reliable choice for watching Chinese TV securely. 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.

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Short on Time? Here Are the Best VPNs for Watching Chinese 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.

How to Watch Chinese TV From Anywhere With a VPN

The easiest way to securely watch Chinese TV in HD anywhere is with a VPN. VPNs provide you with a private IP address from a chosen location, making it possible to access a variety of global content while keeping your data protected. Plus, they work seamlessly on desktops, smartphones, tablets, and streaming sticks, with only minimal setup needed to cover smart TVs and gaming devices.

Here’s how to set up a VPN to stream Chinese TV. This method works for desktops, laptops, smartphones, and tablets. Depending on the VPN, you may also be able to follow this method for Android TV, Fire Stick, Apple TV, and other smart streaming devices that support native VPN apps.

1. Download a VPN

Choose a reliable VPN service known for streaming — our top recommendation is ExpressVPN as it’s the most reliable one we tested for Chinese TV.

Then, go to its official website or your device’s app store to download the app. Don’t download it from unofficial sources, as these fake versions often contain malware.

2. Connect to a Server

Once the download has finished, you’re ready to go — almost all VPN apps come pre-configured so you don’t have to adjust any settings. Open the VPN app and connect to a server. The closer the server is to your location, the better the speeds.

ExpressVPN has a feature called "Smart Location" that automatically connects you to the closest server

3. Choose a Streaming Platform

Now, set up an account on a Chinese TV streaming platform, if you haven’t already. There are a lot of platforms that carry at least a few Chinese shows, but while testing, we found the best one was iQIYI. It’s free, available worldwide, and carries a wide range of content from China, Korea, Thailand, and more.

4. Start Streaming

Now, you’re ready to start streaming Chinese TV in HD from anywhere. Simply pick your favorite show, press play, and relax.

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.

Where Can I Watch Chinese TV Online?

Streaming Platforms

There are a wide variety of streaming platforms that carry Chinese TV. Many are available worldwide, which makes it possible to access your favorite Chinese shows in HD from anywhere. Here’s a quick rundown of the streaming services we found to be the best options for Chinese TV:

Chinese TV Boxes

Chinese TV boxes offer a convenient way to stream a variety of channels and content directly to your TV. These are the most popular options:

Best VPNs to Watch Chinese TV From Anywhere in 2024

Our top recommended VPNs for Chinese TV provide reliable connections, fast speeds, and compatibility with popular streaming devices. Here’s a quick comparison of what makes them a good choice for securely streaming Chinese TV from anywhere.

1. ExpressVPN — The Fastest Speeds for Watching Chinese TV Buffer-Free From Anywhere

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 offers the fastest speeds for watching Chinese TV in HD from anywhere. This is thanks to its Lightway protocol, which delivers exceptional performance while saving resources at the same time. In our tests, ExpressVPN let us stream with no buffering or quality drops, and we never had to hop around to find a server that worked with the platforms we wanted to watch.

It provides robust security features, including military-grade encryption. It also passed all our leak tests without issue, which means that our real information was never revealed. So, we felt secure using this VPN for streaming, knowing that platforms and advertisers couldn’t get their hands on our session data.

ExpressVPN provides a 30-day money-back guarantee, ensuring you can try it risk-free on up to 8 devices simultaneously.

2. CyberGhost — Easy-To-Use VPN To Start Streaming Chinese TV in No Time

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

CyberGhost is user-friendly with intuitive apps that make it easy to start streaming Chinese TV securely in minutes. I particularly liked its streaming-optimized servers, as they’re all regularly maintained to ensure they provide the best watching experience. These optimized ones make it clear which option to pick to securely watch Chinese TV from anywhere. There isn’t one specifically for a Chinese platform, but there are some for services that offer Chinese content, like Sling TV.

While its short-term pricing can be a minor drawback, its long-term plans are more cost-effective. CyberGhost also offers a 45-day money-back guarantee on long-term plans, providing ample time to evaluate its effectiveness for your needs.

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Servers in Hong Kong for the Best Chinese TV Connections

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try Private Internet Access >

www.privateinternetaccess.com

PIA features fast servers in Hong Kong, making it a strong choice for streaming Chinese TV in the best possible quality from anywhere. Our tests showed its servers delivered reliable performance, although it was a bit slower than ExpressVPN and CyberGhost, especially on distant servers. Still, PIA was fast enough for smooth and uninterrupted streaming.

This VPN’s 30-day money-back guarantee effectively lets you try it for free — just ask for a refund if it’s not for you.

Our Methodology for Testing Best VPNs for Chinese TV

We used a stringent set of criteria to evaluate VPNs for watching Chinese TV safely from anywhere. Our testing focused on speed, as uninterrupted streaming requires high bandwidth and low latency. Additionally, we assessed the security features of each VPN, ensuring robust encryption and a strict no-logs policy to protect your privacy while streaming.

We invite you to explore our methodology page for a detailed breakdown of our VPN testing process. Here you’ll find all the details that may help you in conducting your own tests.

How to Watch Chinese TV With a VPN on a Smart TV or Gaming Console

Smart TVs, Xboxes, PlayStations, Roku, and other streaming devices don’t usually support VPNs, which makes setting them up tricky — but not impossible. It just requires a little more patience and technical know-how.

Here’s how to set up a VPN to cover all of your streaming devices via your router so you can securely watch Chinese TV from anywhere on the big screen.

1. Inspect your router. If you don’t already know, look at your router or its admin panel on your computer and note down its make and model. Not all VPNs will be compatible with your router.
2. Choose a VPN. We recommend looking for a VPN that offers a native router app and custom firmware, like ExpressVPN, as this will make installation a lot easier.
3. Sign up. Subscribe to a chosen VPN service on the website.
4. Set the VPN up on your router. The manual configuration can be a little bit complicated, so make sure you follow the instructions on the VPN website. For more information check out this guide on how to install a VPN on your router.
5. Test your VPN connection. You can do this by using an IP tester tool. Note down your IP address before connecting the VPN and after — if it’s different, your VPN works.
6. Launch your preferred streaming app. You can now securely watch Chinese TV from anywhere on your big screen.

An alternative option is to purchase a VPN router. These are “pre-flashed,” which just means that the VPN firmware has already been installed. So, all you have to do is connect them to your home network, sign into the VPN, and you’re ready to start streaming securely.

How to Watch Chinese TV With Subtitles

If you’re trying to learn Mandarin or Cantonese, then watching TV is a great way to do so. It’ll help you learn a more conversational form of the language while providing you with entertaining stories to follow. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you enable and customize subtitles for Chinese TV shows.

1. Choose a Streaming Platform

Platforms like iQIYI, WeTV, and Youku offer multilingual subtitle support for their content. It’s unlikely you’ll find subtitles in all languages, but they often include Simplified Chinese, English, Spanish, Portuguese, and Arabic.

Enabling subtitles on the iQIYI platform is easy, as the setting is available immediately after a show starts playing

2. Enable Subtitles in Video Settings

Once you've selected a show, navigate to the video settings icon, usually represented by a gear symbol or marked Subtitle. Here, you can turn on subtitles and select your preferred language.

Some platforms provide options to adjust the font size, color, and background to ensure the subtitles are readable. This is useful for viewing on different devices and in varying lighting conditions.

It’s worth noting that a lot of platforms now use AI translations, which may not always be correct. However, some platforms like iQIYI give you the option to submit your own translation if you catch a mistake.

Catching translation mistakes or creating your own is a great exercise for language learners

Unfortunately, not all streaming platforms offer subtitles, and some may only offer them in the same language as the one that’s spoken. Fortunately, there are alternative options:

• Use third-party subtitles. If you have the video file of the show that you want to watch, you can download additional subtitle files from websites like Subscene or OpenSubtitles. You can then upload these files to the video player on your computer.
• Auto Translate option on YouTube. There are plenty of Chinese videos on YouTube. Even if they don’t have original subtitles, you can always utilize YouTube’s Auto Translate option. It’s not perfect, but it will definitely help you with following along.

FAQs on Watching Chinese TV

Can I watch Chinese TV channels in the US, Australia, and the UK?

Yes, you can watch Chinese TV channels in the US, Australia, and the UK. Some services like iQIYI or WeTV are available globally, and you can find plenty of content on YouTube in these countries. The most reliable way to watch Chinese TV securely from anywhere is with a tried-and-tested premium VPN.

Does Roku have Chinese channels?

Yes, you can watch Chinese channels through apps available on the Roku platform. Channels like CCTV4, China TV, ACTV Mandarin, and Chinese Zone provide both live and on-demand content. Additionally, Sling TV’s Mandarin, Cantonese, and Taiwanese packages are compatible with Roku, offering a range of Chinese programming. Some of these channels are free, while others may require a subscription. ​

Can I use a free VPN for streaming Chinese TV?

Using a free VPN for streaming Chinese TV is generally not advisable. Free VPNs often have limitations such as slow speeds, data caps, and fewer server locations, which can lead to a poor streaming experience. Moreover, free VPNs may lack the security features needed to stream Chinese TV safely from anywhere. Instead, it's better to use reputable paid VPNs that offer fast speeds, reliable connections, and strong security features.

Are there any free Chinese TV streaming platforms?

Yes, there are free Chinese TV streaming platforms available. Services like iQIYI, Youku, and Tencent Video (WeTV) offer free content. Additionally, CCTV’s official website streams some of its channels for free. Keep in mind that the availability of free content can vary, and some services might include advertisements or have limited viewing options compared to their premium counterparts​.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs for watching Chinese TV from anywhere…

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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