How to Watch HBO Max Online Safely With a VPN in 2024

While it is available in a handful of locations, HBO Max hasn’t made its way eastward, like to some European countries, Asia, or Australia. To determine whether you can watch its content or not, HBO Max reads your IP address to find out your geographical location. If you’re not in one of its licensed locations, you won’t be able to watch its content.

Technically speaking, a VPN can give you an IP address from a licensed location (like the US), which would hypothetically allow you to watch HBO Max’s content from anywhere. However, you should be aware that this goes against the platform’s terms of use and can even constitute copyright infringement.

That said, if (HBO) Max is available in your location and you simply want to secure your connection while streaming, my top recommendation is ExpressVPN. It has fast servers, so it’s easy to find a nearby connection for HD streaming. Plus, its advanced security features keep your data private. You can also try it risk-free since it has a 30-day money-back guarantee. 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 >>

Best VPNs to Watch HBO Max Online in 2024

1. ExpressVPN — Fast Speeds for Smooth HBO Max Connections

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Tested December 2024

Available on:

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www.expressvpn.com

ExpressVPN is the fastest VPN I’ve tested, so it’s great for Ultra HD streaming. From my location in the US, I tested its New York server, which gave me 99 Mbps (only a 10% speed loss). This is about 4x what’s needed for Ultra HD streaming. I streamed The Big Bang Theory on Max for hours and didn’t encounter any buffering.

The platform loaded in just a few seconds, and the video quality remained the same while streaming

ExpressVPN offers 24 US server locations, so you can easily watch Max using a fast and stable connection near your US location. I tested each US server, and each worked with my Max account without hassle. It also has servers in most of the other countries where HBO Max is available, so you’ll have no problem finding a reliable connection if you’re in another licensed location (besides the US).

The MediaStreamer feature (ExpressVPN's Smart DNS) lets you stream HBO Max on devices that don’t support VPNs, like smart TVs. It comes with US DNS addresses, so if you’re in the US, you can use it to watch your Max content on the big screen. It didn’t take more than 5 minutes to set it up on my Samsung smart TV using the tutorial on its site.

ExpressVPN is pricier than some VPNs, but you can usually find money-saving deals on its site. Plus, every plan comes with a trustworthy 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can sign up for ExpressVPN risk-free. To test this, I asked for a refund via the 24/7 live chat. The support agent approved my request with no questions asked. I received a full refund 2 days later.

Useful Features

• Shortcuts. You can add shortcuts to your most-used apps and websites on ExpressVPN’s main interface. A shortcut to the HBO Max app allows you to avoid ISP throttling and secure your streaming connection with 1 click.
• Lightway. ExpressVPN’s proprietary protocol is built for fast speeds and a reliable connection, so I recommend using this for smooth streaming.
• Dedicated router app. Configuring ExpressVPN on your router allows you to use it on any device connected to your home WiFi network (you’ll be able to protect an unlimited number of devices this way). The router app is something that VPN rarely offer and it makes the process of using a VPN on a router way simpler.
• Fire Stick app. ExpressVPN is one of the few VPNs with a dedicated Fire Stick app, so you can easily secure your device and watch Max safely on your big screen.

2. CyberGhost — Streaming-Optimized Servers Work Reliably With HBO Max

Available on:

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Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

CyberGhost offers optimized servers for HBO Max that are tested regularly to ensure they work reliably with the platform. My international team tested its 5 global HBO Max servers (including in Spain, Finland, and Sweden) and confirmed they had stable connections for their respective libraries. I had the same experience while using its HBO Max US-optimized server from my US location.

My speed remained high while watching The Other Two on Max

CyberGhost is super easy to use and perfect for beginners. All I had to do was type “HBO Max” in the server search bar, and was connected within seconds. You can also set the VPN to connect to the server in your country that works best with the platform so you can start streaming without delay.

Like with ExpressVPN, my speeds only dropped by 10% with the New York connection. However, I lost over 30% on the LA server, so there was slight lagging while watching Max with this connection. Thankfully, CyberGhost has servers in many HBO Max-licensed regions, so you can usually find a fast one in your country that’s not too far away.

Unfortunately, its monthly plan is expensive and comes with a shorter 14-day money-back guarantee. However, if you decide to commit annually, you can test CyberGhost for free with a generous 45-day money-back guarantee.

Useful Features

• Server distance displayed. Next to each server, you can see the distance from your location, so it’s easy to find a server closer to you for optimal speeds.
• Smart DNS. CyberGhost also has a Smart DNS that lets you stream on devices that don’t support VPNs, like smart TVs and consoles.
• Gaming and torrenting servers. Apart from its streaming servers, CyberGhost also offers connections for gaming and torrenting, so you always have easy access to an optimal server for your needs.
• Large US server network. CyberGhost has 1450+ servers in the US, so if you’re in the US, it’s easy to find a server that works with Max.

3. Private Internet Access — Huge Network Makes it Easy to Find a Nearby HBO Max Server

Available on:

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Try Private Internet Access >

www.privateinternetaccess.com

Private Internet Access (PIA) has one of the largest networks, with 29,650 servers worldwide, including most HBO Max licensed countries. It also offers connections in every US state — from my state, I tested 10+ US servers, and each worked well with my Max account.

Streaming-optimized servers are also available, but unlike CyberGhost's, they’re region-specific and aren’t dedicated to specific platforms. Still, they’re super reliable for streaming HBO Max and Max, along with a host of other platforms, like Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and more. Just make sure you’re within their licensed regions to avoid breaking the platforms’ T&Cs.

The picture quality remained the same even when skipping through the show

You may find the many customization options overwhelming if you’re not an experienced VPN user. However, PIA comes pre-configured, so there’s no need to change any of the settings to start using it — if you’re in the US, connect to a US server to watch your Max content securely. If you’re in another licensed region, connect to a server in your country.

It offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, meaning you can try PIA for free. If it’s not right for you, you can get a full refund.

Useful Features

• Great speeds. I lost only 17% on the New York connection, so there was no noticeable slowdown while streaming. Using its East Streaming Optimized server, I watched Succession on Max in Ultra HD without interruptions.
• Customizable encryption. PIA lets you choose between AES 128-bit and AES 256-bit encryption. 128-bit is slightly less secure but can give you better speeds for streaming.
• Quick Connect. PIA has a widget that shows you the last 6 locations you used. This makes it easy to pick up where you left off.

4. NordVPN — SmartPlay Gives You Stable and Safe HBO Max Streaming

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try NordVPN >

www.nordvpn.com

NordVPN works with HBO Max without hesitation with its SmartPlay feature. This combines Smart DNS technology with the protection of VPN encryption. It’s built-in in the app and automatically kicks in when you connect to a server and log into your (HBO) Max account, so there’s no extra setup required. From my US location, I tried a couple of its nearby US servers and got a fast and reliable connection every time.

All US servers I tried worked well with the platform

Thanks to its NordLynx protocol, NordVPN offers great speeds on both nearby and long-distance servers. Our speed tester lost an average of 14% on the LA location, even though it’s nearly 9,000 km from their location in the UK. During my tests, I never experienced any buffering while watching Somebody Somewhere on Max.

The only complaint I have with NordVPN is that establishing a connection sometimes takes too long. For instance, it took nearly 4 minutes to connect to the Los Angeles server, which is longer than with most VPNs. The connection is stable afterward, though, so this is a minor inconvenience.

NordVPN comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can get a full refund if you’re not satisfied with the service.

Useful Features

• Obfuscated servers. NordVPN’s obfuscated servers disguise your VPN traffic as a normal internet connection to combat tough firewalls or restrictive networks, so you can easily stream when you're out and about connected to public networks that sometimes block VPNs.
• Map interface. It’s easy to connect to a server with NordVPN’s intuitive map interface. To watch your country’s HBO Max content, simply click on the dot designated to your country.

5. Surfshark — Rotating IPs for Added Privacy While Streaming HBO Max

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try Surfshark >

www.surfshark.com

Surfshark’s rotating IP feature ensures a private connection while you stream HBO Max online. For instance, when you connect to a server in your country, it automatically changes your IP address every few minutes without disconnecting you from the server you’re using. With this feature enabled, I never noticed any interruptions while I streamed Max. It protected my data from prying eyes without interfering with my streams.

Each US server I tried worked reliably with Max

Like PIA, Surfshark doesn’t limit the number of devices you can connect, so you don’t have to worry about logging off from other devices while streaming. I watched Max on my Windows PC while the VPN was connected to multiple other devices, and I never experienced any significant slowdowns.

We had mixed speed results, though. Our UK tester had unusually slow speeds on the Berlin server, with a speed loss of up to 58%. I also tested a couple of US servers, and since they are all closer to me, I had an average drop of around 12%. You need to connect to a server in your country (if licensed) to watch Max without breaking its T&Cs, so you should have good streaming speeds on nearby servers.

You can try Surfshark without risk with its 30-day money-back guarantee. If it doesn’t meet your expectations, getting a refund is quick and easy.

Useful Features

• Built-in speed test. You can test each server speed without closing the app, so it’s easy to find the one in your country that has the best speeds for streaming HBO Max.
• Dedicated IPs. For a small extra price, you can buy a dedicated IP address that only you can use, giving you a more stable connection for streaming.

Tips on Choosing the Best VPN for HBO Max

VPNs vary quite a bit in their capabilities and features offered. I used the following criterion to determine the best VPNs for (HBO) Max.

• Works with (HBO) Max. Some VPNs don’t work with the platform at all. Be sure that the VPN you choose allows you to protect your privacy without conflicting with your streaming abilities.
• Fast speeds. Any VPN will slow down your speeds to a certain extent, but fast VPNs make this speed loss barely noticeable. You need at least 25 Mbps for Ultra HD streaming, so make sure your VPN offers at least that.
• Diverse device compatibility. Make sure the VPN you choose has a dedicated app for the device you want to watch HBO Max on. All the listed VPNs are compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. Some VPNs also have a Smart DNS service or router compatibility, so you can also safely stream on your smart TV or gaming console.
• Large server network. Opt for a VPN with a wide server network, as it increases your chances of finding a reliable and fast connection to HBO Max in your country.
• Reliable customer support. Prioritize 24/7 live chat support, as it means you’ll always have access to a support agent if you encounter a problem. Email support and a comprehensive knowledge base are also welcome.
• Good value and a money-back guarantee. Choose a VPN that protects your privacy while giving you reliable streaming connections without breaking the bank. Most reputable VPNs also offer a reliable money-back guarantee that allows you to try their service risk-free before committing.

Where Can I Watch HBO Max Online?

Due to licensing regulations, HBO Max is only available in around 60 countries worldwide. This includes the US, Sweden, Spain, the Caribbean, and select Latin American countries. Its rebranded platform, Max, is only available in the US (as of writing). Max includes all the shows on HBO Max plus Warner Bros’ Discovery content.

Even if you have an HBO Max or Max account, you’ll face geo-blocks if you try to watch either outside their licensed regions. That’s because your IP address will expose your real location, and you’ll get the following error message:

Max has some of the toughest geo-blocks of any other streaming platform

How to Watch HBO Max (and Max) With a VPN

Important! These guides are dedicated to watching HBO Max or Max safely with a VPN from within a licensed country. Using a VPN to watch content from another HBO Max country’s library goes against its T&Cs and might even constitute copyright infringement. The team and I don’t condone this, and we advise you to use the VPN responsibly.

On Computers and Smartphones

You can protect your connection and watch HBO Max safely on your Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS device simply by installing a VPN to your preferred device.

1. Sign up for a reputable VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN for its fast speeds and smooth connections for watching HBO Max.

   You can try most VPNs, including ExpressVPN, risk-free as they offer a money-back guarantee

2. Download the VPN app on your device. To download the VPN to your computer, go to its official site and download the app from there. If you want to stream HBO Max on your Android or iOS device, simply download the app from its respective app store. Then, enter your login credentials.

   Most VPNs today offer cross-platform support and can be used on a range of devices

3. Connect to a server in your licensed HBO Max country. Open the VPN app, choose a server in whichever country you’re in where HBO Max is available, and connect. HBO Max is available in several regions worldwide, including the US, the Caribbean, and several European countries. Connecting to a server that’s nearest you (in your licensed location) will give you the best speeds for streaming. However, the rebranded Max service is currently only available in the US, so you can only watch it if you’re in the US. Since I’m in the US, I had great speeds with the US servers I tried.

   The closer a server is, the better speeds you will get for streaming

4. Sign in to your HBO Max account. Visit the HBO Max website (on desktop) or app (on mobile), enter your credentials, and log in.

   You can only sign up for HBO Max US with a US payment method and billing address

5. Start streaming. Sit back and enjoy your favorite shows on HBO Max while keeping your connection protected.

On Streaming Devices, Smart TVs, and Gaming Consoles

You can also watch HBO Max on a range of streaming devices, including smart TVs, Apple TVs, Roku players, gaming consoles, and more.

However, most of these devices don’t support VPNs, so if you want to watch HBO Max on one of them while securing your connection, you’ll have to install your VPN to a router. This way, any device on your home WiFi network will automatically connect to the VPN, so you’ll have full protection.

1. Get a VPN that supports routers. Luckily, all our listed VPNs are router-compatible. ExpressVPN even has a dedicated router app, so you can use it on your router easily.
2. Download the router firmware. Go to your VPN account, select your router type, and click Download firmware or a similar button if you’re not using ExpressVPN.
3. Connect your router to the internet. Then, you can install your chosen VPN’s firmware.
4. Pick a server from the router app. Make sure the server is located in your HBO Max licensed country. The connection nearest you will be the best for maintaining fast speeds.
5. Install the HBO Max app. Download and install the HBO Max app on your preferred streaming device if you haven’t already, and log in to the platform to start watching.

How to Sign Up for (HBO) Max Online

To sign up for the rebranded Max service, you need a US payment method and billing address. If you’re trying to sign up for HBO Max from any other licensed country, you need a payment method from your own country.

The debit card method or PayPal are pretty straightforward, so there’s no need to explain those. Below are other methods you can use to subscribe to Max from within the US.

Get a Gift Card on iOS

1. Buy a gift card. Visit apple.com to purchase an iTunes gift card online. Type “gift card” in the search bar, and it will pop up. Opt to have it sent to your email. It might take 1 hour to arrive, but when it does, take note of the 16-digit code provided.
2. Add the gift card to your account. Open the Apple App Store app, click your profile in the upper right corner, then tap Redeem Gift Card or Code. Enter the 16-digit gift card code and tap Redeem. All Apple App Store purchases will automatically use the gift card until the balance reaches $0.
3. Download the Max app. Go to the App Store, search for Max, and install the app. Click Subscribe Now, choose a plan, and enter your details (name, email, and password).
4. Pay for a plan. Choose a plan and tap Continue. You’ll get an App Store pop-up prompting you to tap Subscribe. Once you tap this, the funds for your plan will automatically be deducted from the digital gift card you entered.
5. Start streaming Max. Now, you can enjoy all your favorite Max content from the US.

Get a Gift Card on Android

1. Buy a gift card. You have to buy a Google Play gift card via a third party. I recommend using Amazon. Follow the prompts to make the purchase, and have the digital gift card sent to your email. Take note of the gift card’s code.
2. Add the gift card to your account. Open the Google Play Store app, click the hamburger menu at the top left of the screen, go into Payment methods, and tap Redeem code. Enter the code and tap Redeem. The balance from your gift card will automatically be used until it reaches $0.
3. Download the Max app. Visit the Google Play Store app on your Android device and install the app. Follow the prompts to enter your personal details.
4. Pay for a plan. Choose a plan and tap Subscribe. The payment will be automatically deducted from your Google Play gift card that you entered.
5. Start streaming Max. You’re ready to enjoy all the Max content you want, as long as you’re in the US.

FAQs on Watching HBO Max With a VPN

What if my VPN isn’t working with HBO Max?

There are a few troubleshooting tips you can try. The first thing to check is whether the VPN you’re using has been tried and tested to work with HBO Max. If so, here are some additional tips and tricks to get your HBO Max VPN to start working:

• Switch to a different server. It’s possible that the connection you’re using is down. Choose a different server in your country, where HBO Max is licensed, and try again.
• Clear your cache. Try clearing your data from your browser’s settings. You can also try switching to a different browser or using incognito mode.
• Try a different way to watch HBO Max. If you’re using the HBO Max app, try switching to its website and vice versa. Plus, you can try connecting from a different device.
• Update your VPN app. Outdated VPNs may not work properly and fail to work reliably with HBO Max, so regularly updating your VPN app may help.
• Reach out to customer support. Most premium VPNs offer 24/7 support through live chat, so you can get assistance at any time. A support agent may give you a list of servers in your country that work with HBO Max or offer other troubleshooting tips.

Will a VPN let me watch HBO Max from Ukraine?

Technically, yes, it could. VPNs provide IP addresses in locations across the globe — so you could hypothetically obtain an IP address in one of HBO Max’s licensed locations from Ukraine. It’s important to note that this goes against HBO Max’s terms of use, though. It can even be considered copyright infringement if you do this, so I can’t recommend it.

How can I watch Max outside the US?

It’s possible to do this with a VPN, but I strongly advise against it. If you connect to a VPN server in the US from a location abroad, it can theoretically give you access to Max. That said, this is breaking Max’s T&Cs and possibly infringes on copyright law — which the team at vpnMentor and I don’t condone. Please use a VPN responsibly.

Is it possible to get HBO Max through Hulu or Amazon Prime Video?

Yes, it is. If you have a Hulu or Amazon Prime Video account, you can get Max as an add-on. This will allow you to try the platform for free for 7 days, after which you’ll be automatically charged. As Hulu is restricted to the US, you’ll only be able to watch Max via Hulu if you’re located in the US and have an IP address there.

Can I use a free VPN while streaming HBO Max?

Maybe, but I don’t recommend it. Your best bet is to use a premium VPN with a trustworthy money-back guarantee. Paid VPNs are much faster and work more reliably with HBO Max. Plus, they usually come with unlimited data, so you won’t be cut off mid-show.

Most of the time, free VPNs have severely limited server networks, so it’s unlikely that you’ll get a reliable connection or even find a server in your country. And even if you do, it’s likely you’ll experience buffering, as free VPNs usually come with slow speeds and severe data restrictions.

Even worse, most free VPNs aren’t safe to use. They rely on ads for profit, and these may infect your device with malware. Even though they claim they keep no logs, some free VPNs can sell your private data to third parties for profit.

Start Watching HBO Max

To protect your online privacy without it affecting your HBO Max streaming, you’ll need a fast VPN. It should also have plenty of nearby servers, so you can stream HBO Max in your licensed location with a stable and reliable connection.

If you’re in a licensed (HBO) Max country and just want a secure connection while streaming, I recommend ExpressVPN. It provides plenty of reliable servers across the globe and has the fastest speeds of any VPN I tested, so you’ll be able to stream in great quality. Plus, it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it without risk.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs for HBO Max...

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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