7 Best VPNs for Smart TVs to Stay Anonymous & Stream Securely

With the rise of smart TVs and streaming services, it‘s easier than ever to find and watch your favorite shows and movies. However, geo-restrictions can get in the way of accessing certain content based on your location. This is where a VPN comes in handy.

VPNs allow you to bypass geo-restrictions by masking your IP address and making it appear like you‘re accessing the internet from another location. This opens up a whole new world of streaming possibilities!

In this guide, I‘ll recommend the top 7 VPNs for smart TVs and streaming devices to help you stay anonymous and access restricted content worldwide. Let‘s get started!

1. ExpressVPN – Best Overall VPN for Smart TVs

When it comes to the best VPN for streaming and smart TVs, ExpressVPN tops the list. With its combination of fast speeds, reliable connections, and easy-to-use apps, ExpressVPN is my #1 recommendation.

Here‘s why ExpressVPN excels for streaming:

• Large server network – With over 3,000 servers spread across 94 countries, ExpressVPN has one of the largest VPN server networks. More servers mean faster speeds and more options to bypass geo-blocks.

• Fast speeds – ExpressVPN consistently delivers fast speeds across its server network, thanks to its use of new server technologies. Fast speeds are vital for buffer-free 4K and HD streaming.

• Range of apps – ExpressVPN has custom apps for major platforms like Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Samsung Smart TVs, and more. The apps are intuitive with quick connect features.

• Unblocks streaming sites – ExpressVPN reliably unblocks popular streaming sites like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video. The MediaStreamer feature provides a smart DNS proxy service to access streaming sites on devices that don‘t support VPNs.

• Robust security – You get enterprise-grade security with ExpressVPN including 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, leak protection, and a strict no-logs policy.

With ExpressVPN, I can seamlessly watch Netflix USA, BBC iPlayer, and other geo-restricted platforms on my smart TV without any lags or blockades. It‘s easy to set up, provides watertight security, and the 24/7 live chat support is very helpful.

While ExpressVPN is one of the pricier options, the quality and performance make it worth the investment. It also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can test it out risk-free.

2. NordVPN – Fastest VPN for 4K Streaming

If blazing-fast speeds are your top priority, look no further than NordVPN. It‘s one of the fastest VPN services out there making it a brilliant choice for 4K and HD streaming.

Here are some standout features of NordVPN:

• Quick speeds – NordVPN has a large network of over 5,400 servers worldwide. Combined with optimizations like NordLynx protocol, it delivers quick download and upload speeds ideal for buffer-free streaming.

• SmartPlay – The SmartPlay feature helps bypass geo-restrictions on popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime effortlessly.

• 6 multi-device connections – You can secure and stream simultaneously on up to 6 devices with a single NordVPN account. Most other VPNs only allow 5.

• User-friendly apps – Apps for platforms like Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Apple TV ensure quick and easy setup. Intuitive interfaces make connecting to the fastest servers a breeze.

• Onion over VPN – This optional extra layer of encryption routes your traffic through the Onion network for maximum privacy.

• Great customer support – NordVPN has an extensive library of setup guides and 24/7 live chat support in case you need assistance.

I found NordVPN ideal for streaming HD and 4K content smoothly on my smart TV and mobile devices without constant rebuffering. Though not the cheapest, their 2-year plan brings the monthly cost down reasonably. With its speed, unblocking capabilities, and security features, NordVPN is great value.

3. Surfshark – Budget VPN for Smart TVs

If you‘re looking for impressive streaming performance on a budget, Surfshark is a superb choice. Though relatively new, Surfshark has quickly become a top contender with well-rounded features.

Some key highlights:

• Pocket-friendly pricing – Surfshark has very competitive pricing starting at just $2.49 a month.given the quality, it provides tremendous value for money.

• Good speeds – Speeds are pretty fast and consistent across its 1000+ servers in 100+ locations. Enough for HD/4K streaming with minimal buffering.

• Unlimited devices – A single Surfshark subscription can be used on unlimited devices so you can secure all your smart TVs, mobiles, and more.

• Dedicated streaming mode – This mode offers static IP addresses optimized for accessing geo-restricted streaming services like Netflix and Hulu.

• Strong encryption – Surfshark uses industry-standard AES-256 encryption plus protocols like OpenVPN and IKEv2/IPSec for a secure connection.

• Browser extensions – Additional privacy is provided via handy browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox that automatically route web traffic through the VPN tunnel.

Though not the very fastest, I found Surfshark‘s consistent speeds adequate for streaming HD videos and movies without constant rebuffering. And the unlimited device connections per subscription offer terrific value. For budget-conscious streamers, Surfshark is a great choice.

4. CyberGhost – Easy-to-Use VPN for Beginners

CyberGhost VPN makes it super easy to start streaming restricted content on your smart TV with minimal configuration. It‘s a top choice for beginners thanks to its user-friendly interface.

Let‘s look at some of CyberGhost‘s best features:

• Intuitive apps – CyberGhost offers dedicated apps for platforms like Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Chromecast making set up a breeze. The apps are easy to navigate with quick connect features.

• Dedicated streaming servers – These special servers provide optimal routes to access popular streaming sites like Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Netflix with no geo-restrictions.

• No configuration needed – CyberGhost auto-scans your network and chooses the ideal server for streaming based on your location. Minimal manual settings needed.

• Live chat support – Friendly 24/7 live chat agents can quickly troubleshoot any setup issues you encounter.

• 45-day money-back guarantee – CyberGhost offers one of the most generous refund policies. Plenty of time to test it out.

CyberGhost made accessing streaming platforms like Hulu and iPlayer from my smart TV effortless. With its network-scanning capabilities and easy-to-use apps, even first-time VPN users can get set up quickly. While speeds could be faster, they are reliable for HD streaming. Overall, CyberGhost is great for user-friendly streaming.

5. Private Internet Access – Secure VPN for Privacy-Focused Users

Privacy and security conscious users will appreciate Private Internet Access (PIA) VPN. Though not the flashiest, PIA delivers rock-solid protection alongside access to popular streaming platforms.

Some of PIA‘s security highlights:

• Advanced encryption – PIA uses next-gen AES-256 encryption by default for maximum security. This level of encryption has never been cracked.

• Zero traffic logs – PIA maintains a strict no-logs policy, not even recording basic connection timestamps. Provides true anonymity.

• Kill switch – The kill switch instantly cuts your internet connection if the VPN drops to prevent data leaks.

• 10 simultaneous connections – Share your PIA subscription securely across all your smart TVs and mobile devices.

• Socks5 proxy – An extra layer of encryption that routes traffic through an encrypted proxy for enhanced privacy.

• Supports port forwarding – Helps bypass strict geo-blocks to access more streaming platforms.

With rock-solid 256-bit encryption, zero traffic logging, and a kill switch, PIA offers ironclad security for streaming. Though speed performance is just average, privacy-focused users will appreciate PIA‘s strong security stance.

6. Ivacy VPN – Top Value VPN

Based in Singapore, Ivacy VPN offers impressive capabilities for streaming and security at budget-friendly rates. With 1000+ servers worldwide, 5 simultaneous connections, and unlimited speeds, it provides tremendous value.

Key features of Ivacy VPN:

• Low pricing – Starts at just $1 per month making it one of the most affordable VPNs out there. Terrific value.

• Good speeds – Speeds are surprisingly fast given the low costs. Sufficient for HD and 4K streaming across different countries.

• Purpose selection – Easily select your purpose like streaming or security to connect you to the fastest server automatically.

• Split tunneling – Allows you to secure your smart TV traffic through the VPN while excluding other devices from the tunnel.

• Internet kill switch – Halts your internet if the VPN connection drops as an extra precaution against leaks.

• Reliable live chat – Friendly customer support agents are available 24/7 via chat to address any issues.

I was impressed by Ivacy‘s fast and consistent speeds given its incredibly low pricing. It effortlessly unlocked Netflix libraries worldwide and streaming was smooth. For an affordable yet capable streaming VPN, Ivacy is hard to beat.

7. TunnelBear – Easy-to-Use VPN With Fun Interface

TunnelBear takes a more lighthearted approach to VPNs with its fun, bear-themed interface. But don‘t let that fool you – it‘s a capable VPN for unblocking geo-restricted content on smart TVs and other devices.

Some interesting features of TunnelBear include:

• Intuitive app design – Clean, minimalist apps for various platforms with cute bear themes make setup easy. Includes Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Apple TV.

• Simple server selection – Quickly choose your location from the map to virtually transport your connection and bypass geo-blocks.

• VigilantBear – This blocks trackers, ads, and malicious sites using TunnelBear‘s encrypted network. Provides extra security.

• Affordable pricing – While low-cost, TunnelBear still offers valuable security with AES-256 bit encryption, a kill switch, and a strict no-logs policy.

• Data caps – The free and low-cost plans have data caps. Heavy streamers will need to upgrade to the unlimited plan.

The fun bear themes make TunnelBear easy to use for first-time VPN users. It successfully unblocked Netflix and other sites though speeds could be faster. Still, TunnelBear is perfect for lightweight smart TV streaming and security.

What Makes a Great VPN for Smart TVs – A Buyer‘s Checklist

Now that you know some top VPN options, what exactly should you look for when choosing one for your smart TV streaming needs? Here are key criteria to keep in mind:

• Compatible apps – The VPN should have dedicated apps for your specific smart TV OS or streaming device such as Firestick, Android TV Box, Apple TV, Chromecast, etc. This ensures easy setup.

• Fast speeds – Look for VPNs that offer consistent fast speeds across their server network to support buffer-free 4K and HD streaming. More servers tend to equal faster speeds.

• Unblocks streaming platforms – An ideal VPN will reliably bypass geo-restrictions on popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video.

• Intuitive interface – For user-friendly streaming, choose a VPN with an intuitive app interface that makes connecting to servers and settings quick and easy.

• Strong encryption – Military-grade encryption like AES-256 bit ensures your streaming activity and personal data stay completely secure.

• No traffic logs – To protect your privacy, only use a no-logs VPN that does not record any of your online activity or connection data.

• Kill switch – This safety feature cuts your internet access if the VPN disconnects unexpectedly to avoid data leaks.

• 24/7 customer support – In case any setup issues arise, the VPN provider should offer round-the-clock live chat or email support.

How to Set Up a VPN on Your Smart TV – A Quick Guide

Once you‘ve chosen the ideal VPN for your needs, you‘re ready to install and configure it on your smart TV. Here‘s a simple step-by-step process:

1. Sign up for the VPN service – Start by signing up for your selected VPN provider and downloading their app for your specific smart TV platform.

2. Find your VPN login details – Locate your VPN username, password, and other credentials needed to log into the VPN app.

3. Install the VPN app – On your smart TV, go to the app store, search for the VPN app, and install it.

4. Add VPN account – Open the VPN app on your smart TV and enter your login details when prompted to add your VPN account.

5. Connect to a server – Select a server location from the app‘s server list – try connecting to a location different than your actual location.

6. Launch streaming platform – Once connected to the VPN server, launch the streaming site or app you wish to access like Netflix.

7. Start streaming – You can now stream content normally blocked in your region. Enjoy!

8. Disconnect when done – Be sure to disconnect from the VPN app after you finish streaming to secure your connection.

It‘s quick and easy to start streaming geo-blocked content on your smart TV with a good VPN. Just follow the setup process above. Reach out to the VPN provider‘s customer support if you need any assistance getting the VPN up and running.

Happy streaming! A top-rated VPN opens up a world of digital content.

Frequently Asked Questions About VPNs for Smart TVs

Is it legal to use a VPN for streaming?

Yes, using a VPN to access streaming content on your smart TV is perfectly legal in most countries. VPNs simply allow you to bypass geographic restrictions, but you still need a valid subscription to access the actual content.

Will a VPN slow down my smart TV?

A good quality VPN will have minimal impact on your smart TV streaming speeds. However, factors like your internet connection, server distance, and VPN encryption can affect performance. Be sure to choose a fast VPN with servers near your location.

Can you be tracked while using a VPN?

No. A trustworthy no-logs VPN uses encryption to anonymize your connection. It prevents your ISP and other parties from tracking which sites you visit or content you stream. Zero traffic logs ensures full privacy.

What happens if my VPN disconnects while streaming?

Your IP address and location could get exposed if your VPN disconnects mid-stream. A kill switch feature cuts your internet access if this happens to avoid any data leaks until you reconnect the VPN.

Do I need antivirus software with a VPN?

VPNs provide a high level of privacy and security on their own. However, combining your VPN with antivirus software gives you full protection by also scanning for malware and other cyber threats.