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Best Streaming VPNs for 2020

Last Updated: December 27, 2019

Muhammad Hamza Shahid

Muhammad Hamza Shahid is an online privacy/security advocate at BestVPN.co, who loves sharing his expert knowledge regarding the latest trends in user privacy, cyber laws, and digital affairs. Apart from writing blogs/articles relating to anonymity, he also writes detailed VPN reviews.

After a long tiring day at work, trying to complete all pending tasks, dealing with new responsibilities, and being incredibly proactive as possible, when you finally reach home, the only thing a person demands is a little relaxation and entertainment.

However, most streaming platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, and Hulu impose geographical and content limitations. So, I decided why not create a guide on the 5 best VPNs for streaming in 2019:

1. Ivacy

Our top pick for streamers | Unblocks all streaming platforms | Available for $1.99/mo.

Based in Singapore, Ivacy enjoys a good reputation among Chinese residents/expats. However, what most do not know that the provider is even an amazing choice for streaming and unblocking VoDs around the world.

Ivacy is among the few providers that makes offers a “streaming” mode to its users. Upon entering the menu, you can find popular streaming platforms like Amazon Prime and Hulu (as you can see in the screenshot below).

Simply clicking on any of the names will redirect you to a suitable and “working” server, which successfully unblocks the platform, be it in US, UK, or any other library you wish.

For more information, check out this full 2019 review of Ivacy

2. Surfshark 

Budget-friendly VPN for streaming | Works with all famous VoDs | Costs $1.99/mo.

The BVI-based provider is famed for offering the best deals in the marketplace. However, even so it manages to compete against top names like NordVPN and ExpressVPN. In fact, it offers better functionality for half the price.

Although you do not have a special mode available for streaming, Surfshark manages to unblock all popular streaming platforms. Much of it is owed to its obfuscated server technology from the NoBorders feature.

Best part of all: you have the ability of establishing unlimited simultaneous connections. As such, you can feel assured to stream anywhere on any device with a single subscription, saving you quite the bucks.

For more information, check out this full 2019 review of Surfshark

3. ExpressVPN

Value-packed VPN for streaming | Seamless streaming and fast speeds | Priced at $8.32/mo.

ExpressVPN manages to rank in every category for the best VPN, thanks to its exceptional development team and remarkably fast servers, which are perfect for streaming movies/TV shows online in HD.

This goes true especially for software apps like the Popcorn Time, which combines P2P/Torrenting features with media capabilities. It offers unmatched protection when streaming pirated content.

You also have a huge database of 3000+ servers in 160+ locations  around the world, which ensures you receive no server load issues and guarantees you receive fast speeds for 4k streaming!

For more information, check out this full 2019 review of ExpressVPN

4. PureVPN

Unmatched Browser Extension | Directly unblocks all VoDs via browser | Priced at $1.65/mo.

Based in Hong Kong, PureVPN is a value-packed VPN service; one that is endorsed by Forbes and commended by trustpilot users around the world. This is because the VPN offers the perfect balance between price and performance.

Although it did face a little trouble with the FBI, the VPN has worked hard on gaining the trust of users again. All of its apps feature a dedicated streaming mode with a listing of all popular VoDs that you can unblock.

As a first in the VPN industry, PureVPN is also the ONLY provider that successfully unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu directly from its browser extension, eliminating the need to install the VPN on any other device.

For more information, check out this full 2019 review of PureVPN

5. CyberGhost

Streaming Modes Available | Dedicated servers for different platforms | Costs $2.75/mo.

CyberGhost also offers specialized servers for streaming on Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu and more, while making available advanced features like Wi-Fi Protection, Ad/Tracker Blocking, Kill Switch, and Multi-Logins on seven devices.

To access these specialized servers, all you have to do is enter the name of the VoD into the search bar, available on the top left corner of the Windows client. Android and iOS versions list these servers in the recommended “Streaming” listing.

For more information, check out this full 2019 review of CyberGhost

Why Use a VPN for Streaming?

1. Watch All Your Favorite TV Shows/Movies Online – By using a cheaply priced VPN like PureVPN for streaming, you can gain access to content from over the world, without much hassle. This includes movies/TV shows from geo-restricted websites, which includes thrillers, comedy shows, sci-fi, reality TV, and various others.
2. Stream Live PPV Events Online – With many sport events like the Commonwealth Games, FIFA, WrestleMania, NCAA Basketball, Formula One and ICC coming up after every few months, VPNs are the best solution for access live streams on channels like ABC, ESPN, Fox, Sky Sports etc, which usually impose geo-restrictions, making it difficult to watch your favorite events.
3. Privacy for Sharing Media Files – In addition to streaming, VPNs prove incredibly useful for P2P/Torrenting enthusiasts. By adding a layer of encryption on the network, users stay protecting when downloading torrent files or streaming them via Popcorn Time (Read our best vpn for popcorn time blog) and other BitTorrent technologies, avoiding copyright infringement from MPAA and hefty fines from DMCA notices.
4. Enjoy Content in Your Native Language – Since VPNs give users the ability to connect to servers from around the world, they allow users from different countries to watch their favorite home channels in their native language, irrespective of where they are located.
5. Bypass Bandwidth/Speed Limitations – Oftentimes, local ISPs may skimp on speeds for certain websites, making it impossible for you to watch content seamlessly. To bypass these bandwidth/speed limitations, VPNs prove incredibly useful, as they allow for streaming in HD while preventing local ISPs from keeping any tabs.

People Also Ask

When using a VPN for streaming across multiple premium websites, you may come across certain issues/errors that may leave you thinking. Below we have answered some of the most common questions:

Are Streaming Sites Legal?

Premium services that have acquired the appropriate movie/TV show licenses like Netflix, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Fox GO, ABC, Sky Sports, and various other reputable names are all legal.

However, there are some names that offer pirated content for FREE. These sites may be operating illegally, and streaming on them could get you into copyright hassles.

Is Putlocker Legal?

As we mentioned earlier, there are some websites that provide access to premium PIRATED content, among which include the notorious, Putlocker.

Subsequently, the site itself is not legal, even though it may be accessible in your country. It is generally a slippery slope, but its best to avoid accessing Putlocker, unless you have a VPN connected.

Is Proxy Safer than VPN?

No proxies are and can never be safer than VPNs. These services just act a medium for shifting your location without any added encryption.

They may allow you to unblock sites but skimp greatly on protecting your identity. If you want to stay completely secure and anonymous, nothing can beat VPNs and their security features.

Is Tor Legal?

Despite many government agencies often trying to garner more control over user information, many public and private firms both use Tor and VPNs to keep their own data secure and away from the public eyes.

Subsequently, Tor is not illegal at all, but you still may want to check on the law surrounding these apps in your country.

Wrapping Things Up

This streaming guide was an exercise towards explaining the ways through which users can use a VPN to unblock different streaming platforms around the world, without facing any hassles.

With every factor taken into consideration, Ivacy is the undisputed champion for streaming seamlessly. However, if you want a cheaper alternative, do consider signing up with Surfshark.