3 Best VPNs for Plex in 2024 – Unblock Restricted Content

Last updated: January 25, 2024
William Sams
William Sams
Recommended VPNs for Plex in terms of Security and Privacy!
Best-VPN-for-Plex

Looking for the best VPN for Plex to unblock restricted content? Choosing the right VPN is crucial. The best VPN for Plex should provide fast and reliable connectivity, ensuring you can stream your favorite content seamlessly. With features like high-speed servers and strong security protocols, the top VPNs for Plex offer a secure and unrestricted streaming experience.

Plex is a media server that allows users to organize and stream their media libraries. With Plex, you can access your movies, TV shows, and music from various devices, making it a versatile solution for media enthusiasts. Popular programs on Plex include blockbuster movies, classic TV series, and an extensive collection of music spanning different genres. Unfortunately, Shows on Plex can be geo-restricted which can only be accessible using a reliable VPN.

ExpressVPN is the best VPN that enables seamless utilization of Plex add-ons for popular channels, expanding your streaming options. With support for services like BBC iPlayer, Pandora, Comedy Central, Crackle, and Crunchyroll, this VPN ensures access to diverse content beyond Plex’s native offerings.

For your convenience, we have conducted a detailed analysis of the best VPNs for Plex, providing an in-depth understanding of the recommended services.


3 Best VPNs for Plex: Short Overview

We are here to answer the question, what are the top VPNs for Plex? We present to you the 3 best VPNs for Plex providers, along with a brief description of them.

  1. ExpressVPN: Best VPN for Plex. Provides MediaStreamer, a Kill Switch and, Ligtway protocol. ExpressVPN is priced at US$ 6.67 /mo - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free.
  2. Surfshark: Budget-Friendly VPN for Plex. Offers DNS and IP Leaks, Unlimited Simultaneous connections, and a strict no-logs policy. It costs only US$ 2.49 /mo - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee.
  3. NordVPN: Massive Server Network for Plex. Offers AES 256 Encryption, Split tunneling and, obfuscated servers. It costs US$ 3.99 /mo - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free for a friend.

In-Depth Analysis | FAQs

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Why Should you use a VPN with Plex?

Using a VPN with Plex offers several advantages, enhancing your overall streaming experience. Using a reliable VPN provides the following benefits.

  • Bypass Geo-restrictions: A VPN allows you to bypass geo-restrictions on Plex, ensuring access to content that might be limited to specific regions. With a virtual location, you can enjoy a broader range of movies, TV shows, and music on Plex, regardless of your physical location.
  • Maintain Online Privacy – ISP Throttling: Using a VPN with Plex enhances your online privacy by encrypting your internet connection. This not only safeguards your Plex usage data from potential eavesdroppers but also helps prevent ISP throttling, ensuring consistent streaming speeds for a smoother Plex experience.
  • Blocks Ads on the Free Version of Plex: A VPN adds an extra layer of protection against ads on the free version of Plex. By masking your IP address for one with a US IP address, you can minimize the display of targeted ads, creating an ad-free streaming environment for a more enjoyable Plex experience.
  • Continue Watching Your Content While Traveling: When traveling, a VPN allows you to maintain access to your Plex content library seamlessly. By connecting to a server in your home country, you can overcome regional restrictions and enjoy your favorite shows and movies on Plex as if you were at home.

For the ultimate VPN-Plex synergy, ExpressVPN stands out as the top recommendation. With its fast and reliable servers, robust security features, and global server network, ExpressVPN ensures seamless streaming on Plex. By prioritizing speed, privacy, and access to diverse content, ExpressVPN provides an optimal solution for enhancing your Plex experience.


How to Use a VPN with Plex: Quick Guide

Once you have decided which VPN best suits your needs, here is how you can use the best VPN for Plex on your desired device.

  1. Choose a reputable VPN. We recommend ExpressVPN. Sign up with your email address.
  2. Download and install the VPN on your device.
  3. Log in with your credentials.
  4. Connect a location server of your choice.
  5. Visit Plex and enjoy watching your favorite content.
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3 Best VPNs for Plex in 2023: Side by Side Comparison

Before we discuss each VPN service in detail, here is a side-by-side comparison to visually show you the different features provided by each of the best VPNs for Plex.

VPN Provider Servers and Locations Simultaneous Connections Compatible devices Logging policy Price (Monthly) Money-back guarantee
ExpressVPN 3000+ in 105 countries 8 Windows, iOS, Android, Mac, and Linux No log policy US$ 6.67 /mo - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free 30 days
Surfshark 3200+ in 100 countries Unlimited Windows, iOS, Android, Mac, and Linux No log policy US$ 2.49 /mo - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee 30 days
NordVPN 6000+ in 61 countries 6 Windows, iOS, Android, Mac, and Linux No log policy US$ 3.99 /mo - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free for a friend 30 days

The Best VPN for Plex – Detailed Analysis

Here is an in-depth analysis of the best VPNs to use with Plex. All of the providers have been thoroughly tested by our team of experts. Based on those tests, ExpressVPN stands out as the true champion. It offers fast speeds and smooth connections with reliable unblocking, perfect for Plex.

1. ExpressVPN: Best VPN for Plex

ExpressVPN-in-USA

Key Features

ExpressVPN is the best VPN for Plex, which can bypass geo-restrictions from where you are. The provider offers fast speeds, high-end security, and rotating servers, so you’ll get a new IP address every time you connect to an ExpressVPN server.

ExpressVPN, based in the British Virgin Islands, ensures top-tier security by operating beyond the jurisdiction of the 14 Eyes. This strategic location enhances user privacy.ExpressVPN upholds a stringent no-logs policy, further strengthening its commitment to user data confidentiality. To reinforce this commitment, the service undergoes regular audits by an independent third party, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC).

ExpressVPN servers can also unblock other popular platforms due to the presence of its Media Streamer feature. If you are wondering how to get a VPN on Netflix, ExpressVPN is the man for the job. It unblocks various services, Netflix and Hulu with ExpressVPN is supposed to be the best VPN service.

ExpressVPN with BBC iPlayer, providing seamless access to a diverse range of content without geographical restrictions. Additionally, it stands out as the best VPN for Shudder, offering a secure and high-speed connection for horror enthusiasts to enjoy a vast collection of thrilling movies and series.

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We used the NY server of ExpressVPN to unblock Plex

The ExpressVPN speed test Plex resulted in an average speed of 90 Mbps, and we could easily watch our favorite content on the streaming platform and download it at 89.42 Mbps, and you can easily upload content at 84.64 Mbps.

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We got excellent speeds when we used ExpressVPN to get a US IP address.

ExpressVPN offers a range of useful features, such as Split Tunneling, Network Lock, and robust WebRTC/DNS/IP Leak Protection. Users benefit from MediaStreamer for seamless streaming, while the service ensures high-level security with Military-Grade AES 256-bit Encryption and Perfect Forward Secrecy.

ExpressVPN is the best VPN for Plex Android. We also used its applications designed for Windows, Mac, Linux, and iOS. It ensures user-friendly accessibility across a range of devices. Prospective users can explore the service risk-free through a 7-day ExpressVPN free trial available on Android and iOS platforms.

Additionally, convenient browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox further enhance the versatility of ExpressVPN, making it the best VPN for Roku due to its broad compatibility and flexibility on multiple devices.

Setting up ExpressVPN on your router becomes a simple task with the dedicated router app it provides. Alternatively, if you prefer not to use the router app, ExpressVPN allows for up to 8 simultaneous connections. Simply download and install the application on each device to enjoy secure and seamless VPN access across multiple platforms.

ExpressVPN’s subscription price starts at US$ 6.67 /mo - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free. While it’s true that ExpressVPN is expensive compared to other providers, if you opt for a longer-term plan, then it can fall into the economical cap. Plus, you always have the option to cancel your ExpressVPN subscription.

For queries, you can visit the ExpressVPN website and talk to a human representative any time of the day via the 24/7 live chat option. ExpressVPN is the best VPN for Plex free. If you are curious to find out more about this amazing service, check out ExpressVPN review.

Pros
  • Strong and optimized servers to access Plex.
  • Based in the secure jurisdiction of the British Virgin Islands (BVI)
  • Emphasizes strong security measures
  • Offers a specialized app for router configuration
  • Features MediaStreamer for smooth streaming

Cons
  • Expensive Prices

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2. Surfshark: Budget-Friendly VPN for Plex

Surfshark-in-USA

Key Features

Surfshark is the best budget pick for Plex streaming, offering an economical plan costing US$ 2.49 /mo - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee. The provider was introduced in 2018, but it immediately captured the VPN market, and now it’s compared to the big guns due to its AES 256-bit military-grade encryption protocols and top-notch features.

You can unlock a world of entertainment by accessing Netflix with Surfshark, offering a seamless streaming experience with a vast library of content. You can also enjoy unrestricted access to regional content as you explore BBC iPlayer with Surfshark, providing a reliable solution to overcome geo-restrictions. Surfshark also stands out as the best VPN for Sky Witness, offering secure access to your favorite shows and content.

Apart from the platforms aforementioned Surfshark servers are optimized enough to unblock all major streaming platforms, including HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, fuboTV, Hulu, and more.

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The NY server of Surfshark is capable enough to unblock Plex.

The Surfshark speed test resulted in an average speed of 82 Mbps, and we could safely access the streaming service outside of the US with high resolution and no buffering screens.

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Surfshark provides good speeds for streaming Plex online.

Being headquartered in the Netherlands, Surfshark emerges as a secure VPN option for Plex streaming. With a rigorous no-logs policy, user data privacy is a priority, further affirmed by independent audits conducted by Cure53. This reassures users that their data remains confidential and untouched, enhancing the overall security and trustworthiness of Surfshark as a VPN service.

When it comes to versatility, Surfshark on Firestick provides applications across a broad spectrum of commonly used platforms, ensuring compatibility. This extends beyond Firestick to encompass major operating systems, including Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS.

Moreover, the user-friendly experience is complemented by the option to effortlessly install browser extensions for both Chrome and Firefox, making Surfshark a flexible and accessible choice for various devices and browsers.

Surfshark has robust encryption using the widely recognized AES 256-bit standard, ensuring a secure and private online experience. Furthermore, users have the flexibility to choose from advanced protocols such as IKEv2, OpenVPN, and WireGuard, allowing customization based on specific operational requirements.

You can get additional functionalities offered by Surfshark to enhance your online security. These include features like Camouflage Mode, NoBorders, Kill Switch, MultiHop, Bypasser, CleanWeb, and Smart DNS, providing a comprehensive suite of tools to safeguard your online activities effectively.

With a Surfshark account, users enjoy unrestricted simultaneous connections, making it the best VPN for multiple devices. Explore the service and its features by utilizing the Surfshark free trial, providing an opportunity to experience the capabilities before committing to a subscription.

Surfshark’s customer support remains vigilant with 24/7 live chat availability. You can contact them at any time through the live chat option on their official website for prompt assistance.

Read Surfshark review, where we delve into a comprehensive analysis of this VPN, providing detailed insights.

Pros
  • Utilizes WireGuard Protocol for enhanced security for Plex
  • Based in the Netherlands
  • Supports unlimited simultaneous connections
  • Offers a budget-friendly VPN service
  • Features MultiHop for additional anonymity
  • Incorporates CleanWeb for ad and malware blocking

Cons
  • P2P Servers are limited

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3. NordVPN: Massive Server Network for Plex

NordVPN-in-USA

Key Features

With the most extensive server network, NordVPN stands out as a secure choice for Plex users. Boasting a vast array of servers, NordVPN provides 6000 servers across 61 countries, ensuring reliable and diverse connection options. This expansive server infrastructure contributes to robust security and seamless streaming experiences on Plex.

Operating from Panama, NordVPN benefits from the absence of data retention laws and remains beyond the reach of the 14 Eyes alliance. The service maintains a rigorous no-logs policy, subjected to a NordVPN audit by PwC, a reputable independent third party from the Big Four accounting firms. This commitment to transparency ensures that user data is handled with utmost privacy and security.

Other than Plex, it can unblock many other popular platforms. You can unlock the full potential of Netflix with NordVPN, experiencing unrestricted access to a vast library of movies and TV shows. Similarly, enjoy seamless access to Hulu with NordVPN, ensuring an enhanced streaming experience with the added benefits of privacy and security.

We enjoyed watching Disney+ with NordVPN, ensuring unrestricted streaming of your favorite Disney content. We also experienced uninterrupted access to exclusive British shows and programs by enjoying BBC iPlayer with NordVPN. This VPN is one of the best to unblock platforms like HBO Max, Crunchyroll, Telstra TV, and more.

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Utilizing NordVPN facilitated seamless access to Plex content

NordVPN speed test resulted in an average speed of 83 Mbps, and the streaming experience was smooth. We could easily access libraries of other regions, and no buffering screens were witnessed.

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NordVPN provided excellent speeds for streaming and browsing.

NordVPN stands out as the best VPN with OpenVPN services. With its robust OpenVPN services, evident through features like double VPN and Onion over VPN. The encryption uses the highest caliber, utilizing the military-grade AES 256-bit method for optimal security. Users can choose from various protocols, including IKEv2, OpenVPN, and NordLynx—a proprietary Nord protocol built upon WireGuard, showcasing the provider’s commitment to offering diverse and advanced security options.

NordVPN provides additional features such as a built-in Kill Switch, CyberSec, Double VPN, P2P Servers, Split Tunneling, Smart DNS, and Threat Protection.

Along with NordVPN on Windows, it provides compatibility across a range of operating systems, including macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, ensuring a versatile user experience. For users seeking browser-specific security, NordVPN offers dedicated extensions for both Chrome and Firefox, providing a flexible and comprehensive approach to safeguarding online activities.

With a single subscription plan, users can enjoy the convenience of six simultaneous connections. However, by configuring NordVPN on your router, you can efficiently cover all your devices with just one connection. This offers a flexible and streamlined approach to securing multiple devices within your network.

NordVPN costs US$ 3.99 /mo - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free for a friend along with a NordVPN free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee. NordVPN customer support is available 24/7 via the live chat option on the official website, so you reach them any time of the day for your queries and technical difficulties.

Read NordVPN review to know about the ins and outs of this service.

Pros
  • Extensive server network for Plex users.
  • Panama-based VPN for enhanced security
  • Kill Switch feature for added protection
  • Dedicated IPs for personalized access
  • Port Forwarding capabilities for advanced configurations
  • Comprehensive Threat Protection

Cons
  • Dedicated Router App not available

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How to Choose the Best Plex VPN?

Not all VPNs are created equal. When choosing a Plex VPN, there are several factors you need to take into account:

  • Huge Server Network: Choose a Plex VPN with a vast server network to ensure a wide range of virtual locations, granting you access to diverse content libraries and minimizing the risk of server congestion.
  • Unblocking Capability: Opt for a Plex VPN bypass known for its unblocking capabilities, enabling you to bypass geo-restrictions effortlessly and enjoy a seamless streaming experience without content limitations.
  • Fast Connection Speeds: Prioritize a Plex VPN with fast connection speeds to eliminate buffering and lags, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted streaming experience for your Plex media.
  • Strong Encryption and Security: Select a Plex VPN that prioritizes strong encryption and security protocols to safeguard your data and maintain a secure connection while streaming your favorite content.
  • Compatibility For All: Ensure the Plex VPN is compatible with various devices and operating systems, providing flexibility and accessibility across platforms for a versatile streaming experience.
  • Quality Price Ratio: Evaluate the quality-price ratio of the Plex VPN, seeking a balance between performance, features, and affordability to ensure you get the best value for your investment.
  • Privacy: Prioritize a Plex VPN that respects user privacy by implementing a strict no-logs policy and offering features like a kill switch, ensuring your online activities remain private and secure.

How to Install Plex on Different Platforms

If you’re unfamiliar with the realm of streaming, setting up Plex might be tough. Don’t worry; We’ve got you covered. We’ve provided simple Plex installation instructions for Mac, Android, iOS, and FireTV below.

Installing Plex on Mac

If you’re going to use Plex on your Mac, then a VPN is necessary. Choose the best VPN for Mac first and then connect to a server location of your choice to bypass geo-restrictions.

Here is a step-by-step process of installing Plex on Mac.

  1. Download the Plex Media Server for Mac and run it on your Mac computer.
  2. A browser window will pop up and ask you to sign up.
  3. Accept the terms and conditions so the setup can begin.
  4. Open the applications folder and launch the Plex Media Server for macOS.
  5. Double-click on the Plex media server.
  6. Now, you need to use the Plex media server via Plex web apps so you can access Plex and its media with a browser.
  7. Navigate to the Plex icon (>) to run the Plex web app.
  8. Your default browser will open, and the Plex web app will load. Log in to your account and complete the Plex media server process.
  9. Follow the usual installation prompts. Provide a name for your server and set up media libraries.
  10. That’s it. The setup is complete. Test media through the Plex web app.
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Installing Plex on Android

If you’re going to use Plex on your Android device, then a VPN is necessary. Choose the best VPN for Android first and then connect to a server location of your choice to bypass geo-restrictions.

Here is a step-by-step process for installing Plex on Android devices.

  1. Download the Plex Android app on your device from Google Play Store.
  2. Download and install a VPN. We recommend ExpressVPN.
  3. Launch the ExpressVPN app and log in with your credentials.
  4. Connect to a server location of your choice.
  5. Launch Plex and start streaming the content that was unavailable before.
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Installing Plex on iOS

You can easily install Plex on your iOS and use a VPN to access geo-restricted content.

  1. On your iPhone, navigate to the iTunes App Store.
  2. Download the Plex iOS app on your device.
  3. Sign up for a reputable VPN. We recommend ExpressVPN.
  4. Download and install the ExpressVPN app on your device.
  5. Log in with your ExpressVPN credentials.
  6. Connect to a server location of your choice.
  7. Start using Plex. Now, you can easily watch geo-restricted content with the VPN.
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Installing Plex on Firestick or Fire TV

You can use Plex on Firestick or Fire TV with the help of a VPN.

  1. Go to the Amazon App Store and search for “Plex”.
  2. Download and install the Plex app.
  3. Install a VPN. We recommend ExpressVPN.
  4. Log in with your ExpressVPN credentials.
  5. Connect to a server location.
  6. Launch Plex and start watching your favorite content with a VPN.
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How to Set up a VPN on your router for Plex

Follow these steps while using Plex with a VPN-enabled virtual router.

  1. Choose a VPN-enabled virtual router for Plex to simplify the process and minimize risks.
  2. Create a Wi-Fi hotspot using a laptop or Wi-Fi-capable desktop to establish the connection.
  3. Connect your laptop to the VPN, ensuring all Plex traffic is routed through the VPN server.
  4. Standard computers can broadcast Wi-Fi networks, enabling seamless connection to Plex devices.
  5. Tutorials for setting up VPN-enabled virtual routers are available for both MacOS and Windows, enhancing accessibility and ease of use.

Follow these steps while using Plex with a VPN-enabled Wi-Fi router

  1. Configuring a VPN on a physical router requires caution due to complexity and potential permanent damage.
  2. Verify VPN compatibility by checking for suitable router firmware; access your router dashboard at 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1.
  3. Within the router dashboard, locate VPN settings to initiate the configuration process.
  4. Ensure remote access for Plex servers by implementing port forwarding through the NAT firewall.
  5. If your router lacks VPN support, explore alternatives such as replacing the firmware with DD-WRT or Tomato. Alternatively, simplify the process by purchasing a pre-flashed router from your VPN provider, ready for a seamless connection.
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How to Fix Plex not Working with a VPN?

Here are a few solutions on how to fix Plex not working with a VPN.

  • Check VPN Compatibility: Ensure your VPN is compatible with Plex. Some VPNs may have difficulty working with Plex due to various reasons, so verify compatibility with Plex’s requirements.
  • Server Location: Select a server location that aligns with your actual geographic location. Plex may detect inconsistencies between your VPN server location and the location associated with your Plex account, causing issues.
  • Adjust VPN Settings: Review your VPN settings and make adjustments if necessary. Some VPNs may have specific configurations or features that can impact Plex compatibility, so ensure your settings are optimized for streaming.
  • Port Forwarding: Implement port forwarding for Plex through your VPN. This step may be necessary to establish a stable connection, especially if your VPN uses a NAT firewall that could interfere with Plex functionality.
  • Disable VPN for Local Networks: Consider disabling the VPN for local networks. Plex often relies on local network connections, and having your VPN active for these connections might cause disruptions. Configure your VPN to exclude local IP ranges if possible.
  • Clear Cache and Cookies: Clear your browser’s cache and cookies, or Plex app data. Sometimes, stored data can lead to issues, and a clean start may resolve any conflicts between Plex and the VPN.
  • Try a Different VPN Server: If the issue persists, try connecting to a different server within your VPN provider’s network. Connectivity or server-specific issues might be affecting your Plex experience.
  • Contact VPN Support: If all else fails, reach out to your VPN provider’s customer support. They can provide specific guidance and troubleshoot any issues you may be encountering while using Plex with their VPN service.

FAQs: Best Plex VPN

Yes! A VPN provides you with additional security that acts as armor against potential cyber threats. Most websites and streaming services keep a record of your activity and have malware that logs your data. It is always recommended to use a VPN, like ExpressVPN to protect your online activity.

Yes, Plex does work with ExpressVPN rather seamlessly. It is the ideal service to pair with Plex due to its unlocking abilities, especially if you are using a VPN for Netflix. Along with that, it also has the bypassing capability, amazing speed, and security features. It is safe to say ExpressVPN is the best VPN for Plex.

Here are the steps on how to port forward Plex with VPN

  • Open the Plex web app and log in using your credentials.
  • Proceed to Settings > Server > Remote Access to access Plex’s remote access settings.
  • Click on the “Show Advanced” option to unveil additional configuration choices.
  • Enable the “Manually Specify Public Port” checkbox to take control of the port configuration.
  • Enter the WAN/External port number that was utilized previously.
  • Click either the “Retry” or “Apply” button to save and implement the updated settings.

Using a VPN for Plex may not necessarily slow down your streaming speeds. In fact, it can counteract potential slowdowns caused by ISP throttling by encrypting your data with robust AES 256-bit encryption, ensuring a secure and uninterrupted Plex streaming experience. If you encounter sluggish performance, a VPN like ExpressVPN can help optimize and maintain consistent speeds for seamless Plex usage.

Yes, you can use a free VPN for Plex; however, we would caution you against its use. For instance, many free VPNs fail to unblock Plex and bypass its geo-restrictions. Not only that, some of them may not be even compatible with the device you’re using. The most pressing concern is free VPNs often log user data which can be a huge breach of privacy. That’s why using a premium VPN like ExpressVPN is your best bet.


Bottom Line

While Plex stands out as an excellent media streaming platform, it does have certain constraints. To access geo-blocked content on Plex, it becomes essential to use the best VPN for Plex. Without this, you might find yourself limited to a restricted channel selection. Given the multitude of VPN options available, determining the ultimate VPN for Plex can be a challenging task.

We suggest choosing ExpressVPN as the best VPN for Plex. This user-friendly and dependable VPN effortlessly unblocks Plex. Moreover, it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to test it without any financial risk.

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