You’ve purchased a smart TV and can seamlessly watch all of your streamed content from the comfort of your couch, without having to huddle around a computer screen or deal with multiple cables. But something is missing. You still don’t have access to all the content you want to watch because much of it is geo-restricted. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is the perfect solution.

We’ll show you how to securely access geo-restricted content through your smart TVs in the UK, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, China or anywhere else internationally. We’ve chosen VPNs that will work with the most popular brands of smart TV including Sony, Panasonic, LG, Philips, Samsung, Vizio, and others. If you have an Apple TV check out our separate guide to the best VPNs for Apple TV.

We’ll discuss all of the best VPNs for smart TVs in more detail below, but if you want to cut to the chase, here are our top choices.

Best VPN for Smart TV:

Best VPNs for a smart TV – at a glance

We’ve compared the most important features for the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for smart TV.

There are no hidden terms—just tell customer support within 30 days if you decide NordVPN isn’t right for you and you’ll get a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here.

Contrary to what some may think, a VPN can work with a smart TV. Although, most smart TVs don’t natively support VPNs. This means you’ll need a VPN that can be configured on your router or that can enable you to create your own protected wifi hotspot through your computer. Aside from that, you’ll want a VPN service that can securely access plenty of streaming sites, and deliver on other facets, such as speed, reliability, and security. Not all providers can do all of this, so we’ve put together a list of the best based on the following criteria:

We go into more detail on our exact testing methodology below.

Here is our list of the best VPNs for smart TVs:

1. NordVPN

                    Jan 2023

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • Background
  • FireTV

Website: www.NordVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

NordVPN is faster than any other VPN we’ve tested and it actually has specific servers optimized just for streaming. Its huge network of more than 5,000 servers in over 60 countries means you shouldn’t have a problem finding one that works. If you do, live chat customer service agents are always on hand to help.

This provider offers a strong suite of security features including 256-bit AES encryption, perfect forward secrecy, a process-specific kill switch, and DNS leak protection. Some servers are optimized to prevent DDoS attacks if that happens to be a concern.

A basic account will enable you to connect up to six simultaneous devices. Desktop clients are available for Windows and MacOS, and mobile apps can be downloaded for Android and iOS.

BEST VPN FOR SMART TVS:NordVPN is ideal for Smart TVs. It’s extremely fast, includes a huge range of security features, and even offers a SmartDNS fallback. What’s more, you can try it risk-free thanks to its 30-day money-back guarantee.

Pros:

  • Can be configured directly onto your wifi router or a pre-configured router
  • Unparalleled network – 5,000 servers across 63 countries
  • Servers are optimized for HD streaming
  • No compromises on privacy and security
  • Support staff are helpful and knowledgeable

Cons:

  • Desktop apps can be sluggish and take some getting used to

Our score:

See our in-depth NordVPN review.

2. Surfshark

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website: www.Surfshark.com

This service uses 256-bit encryption, protection against DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks, and a kill switch to keep your activities safe from snoopers. Better still, Surfshark doesn’t keep any logs that could identify you. If you’d like even greater anonymity, you can pay in Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Ripple.

Surfshark lets you connect an unlimited number of devices at once and has apps for Windows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, and Android.

BEST BUDGET CHOICE:Surfshark lets you stream just about anything you want on your Smart TV. Better still, it’s a low-cost provider that nonetheless boasts strong security and privacy protections, decent speeds, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • Great for streaming

  • Solid speeds overall

  • No-logs provider

  • Puts your security and privacy first

  • No connection limit means it’s ideal for sharing

  • Has a relatively small network

  • Some servers are slower than others

Read our full Surfshark review

3. ExpressVPN

Website: www.ExpressVPN.com

Whether installed on your existing router or one purchased directly from ExpressVPN, the firmware is intuitive and simple from a user standpoint. You can choose which devices to connect to the VPN and which go through a normal connection by making changes through an easy-to-use dashboard.

That being said, setting up a VPN with a smart TV might be a bit more complex than simply installing on your computer or mobile device. Therefore, it’s crucial that your chosen provider offers excellent customer support. ExpressVPN delivers on this front with reliable and knowledgeable 24/7 live chat.

If encryption isn’t an important factor for you, ExpressVPN includes a smart DNS proxy server that is included in every subscription. If your smart TV lets you change DNS settings, the proxy (called Media Streamer) can be set up independently of the VPN and still enable you to access streaming channels.

Back to the VPN, security and privacy-conscious users will be pleased to see 256-bit AES encryption and perfect forward secrecy. You also have DNS leak protection and a kill switch, the latter referred to by ExpressVPN as a “network lock.” ExpressVPN maintains very minimal connection logs and never records user activity or IP addresses.

Aside from configuring ExpressVPN on your router, you can use it on individual devices, up to three simultaneously. Apps are available for Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.

GREAT EVERYDAY VPN:ExpressVPN is a solid performer with high speeds and top-quality privacy features. Great for streaming. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • Can install at the router level for Smart TVs

  • Super fast servers work with just about any popular streaming service

  • Strong no logs privacy policy and high-grade security built into apps

  • Unrivaled live chat support 24/7

  • Slightly more pricey than other services

  • May not be customizable enough for power users

See our in-depth ExpressVPN review.

4. CyberGhost

Website: www.Cyberghost.com

Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS

CyberGhost offers robust security in the form of 256-AES encryption and perfect forward secrecy. There’s a built-in kill switch and DNS leak protection to make sure your traffic never leaves the encrypted tunnel. No logs are kept that can be tied to an individual user.

Seven devices can be connected at a time and apps are available for Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.

GOOD VALUE VPN:CyberGhost is a great value choice. Strong on privacy, fast speeds and reliable with smart TVs. We found it easy to set up and use. Works well with most streaming sites. 45-day money-back guarantee.

  • Direct router configuration available

  • All security features enabled by default

  • Some of the fastest streaming servers we’ve tested

  • Keeps no user activity logs and provides strong encryption to bypass activity detection

  • Doesn’t work in China or the UAE

  • Little control over advanced features

See our in-depth CyberGhost review.

5. IPVanish

Website: www.IPVanish.com

IPVanish can be configured to work on your home router, enabling you to connect your smart TV through the VPN. It isn’t quite as powerful an option for streaming as others on the list as it occasionally struggles with larger services but you can enjoy secure access to platforms like Hulu and ITV Hub. Like NordVPN, IPVanish offers FlashRouter wifi routers pre-configured with the VPN, if you want to save yourself some trouble.

This service is very popular with torrenters and Kodi users. Kodi isn’t compatible with many smart TVs, but if you’re able to run it and you use it often, this might be the best option for you. Top-notch customer support is always on hand to help you with setup or troubleshooting.

IPVanish will keep your information secure and private with 256-bit AES encryption and perfect forward secrecy. It comes with DNS leak protection and a kill switch. The latter will kill the internet connection in case the VPN connection is lost. This provider is completely log-free, so it can’t hand over any information, even if it’s asked to.

Any number of devices can be connected at one time, and you can download apps for Windows, MacOS, Android, and iOS.

LARGE NETWORK:IPVanish is great for families. Good for most streaming services.  Recommend for their high standard of privacy. Could do with a live support option. 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • Configure directly onto your wifi router

  • Operates a network of more than 1,900 servers in 60+ countries

  • Keeps no logs whatsoever

  • Offers 24/7 live chat

  • Customer support is a little slow

See our in-depth IPVanish review.

6. PrivateVPN

Website: www.PrivateVPN.com

Another area where PrivateVPN stays competitive is within privacy and security. It lives up to its name and keeps no logs related to browser activity or session history. Encryption is 128-bit or 256-bit depending on which protocol you’re using. This comes with perfect forward secrecy, DNS leak protection, and a built-in kill switch.

You can use PrivateVPN on up to six devices simultaneously. Desktop clients can be downloaded for Windows and MacOS, and apps are available for Android and iOS.

GREAT SPEED:PrivateVPN is a good family choice. A reliabel choice for many popular streaming sites and allows up to 6 devices on the same account. Small network of servers but fast connections. 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • Fewer servers to choose from than other providers higher on this list
  • Support staff are good, but only operate during European business hours
  • Apps lack advanced features, such as ad and malware blocking options

See our in-depth PrivateVPN review.

7. Private Internet Access

Website: www.PrivateInternetAccess.com

While the average VPN allows up to a handful of simultaneous connections, PIA lets you secure up to 10 devices at once. This highly secure service keeps you safe with 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection. A no-logs VPN provider, PIA has round-the-clock live chat support. You’ll also find some extra features such as an ad and malware blocker, making it particularly good value.

SECURE 10 DEVICES:Private Internet Access can be manually set up to work with compatible routers. It allows up to 10 simultaneous connections and won’t throttle your bandwidth. Security includes encryption. 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • Doesn’t work with some popular streaming platforms
  • Not a reliable option for use in China

Read our full Private Internet Access review.

Can I use a free VPN with a smart TV?

A free VPN might seem like a good idea, but in reality, these services fall short. To start, it’s less likely that a free service will be capable of working with a smart TV or that the provider will offer solid support to help you set it up. Even if you do get it going, there are more practical issues to overcome.

Free services suffer from slow speeds, lack of server selection, and long wait times to get connected. And if you’re trying to stream, it’s more likely that a free VPN will result in a dreaded proxy error.

Aside from the practical issues, free providers typically lack the strong security and privacy features you get with their premium competitors. Many log user activity or insert tracking cookies, and inject ads or sell data to third parties. Some even carry malware.

With providers like the ones we’ve discussed above offering such great deals, it just doesn’t make sense to waste time with a subpar product.

How do I set up a VPN with a Smart TV?

Since smart TVs and indeed VPNs are all slightly different, there is no catch-all protocol for connecting. Many large electronics manufacturers have jumped into the smart TV market, including:

  • Samsung
  • LG
  • Panasonic
  • Sony
  • Philips
  • TCL
  • Vizio
  • Toshiba
  • JVC

Some newer TV models by certain brands enable you to install a VPN directly onto it. For example, since many Sony smart TV models are Android-based, they will be compatible with a VPN app. On the other hand, Samsung smart TVs aren’t compatible with VPN apps so need to be set up differently, for example, through the router configuration.

When you configure the VPN on your home router, any device — including your smart TV — connected to the router will be protected. If your router firmware supports VPN configuration, you can follow the setup guides offered by your chosen provider (see below). If not, you may want to look into replacing the router’s firmware with a VPN-compatible firmware, such as DD-WRT or Tomato. Bear in mind that replacing firmware (known as flashing) can damage your router, so it is best left to the more tech-savvy user.

Another option is to buy a pre-configured router such as those we mentioned earlier. ExpressVPN router is recommended as it uses custom firmware and is easy to use. NordVPN and IPVanish have great options available made by third-party affiliate, FlashRouter.

Most providers offer step-by-step instructions to help you install the VPN onto a router. Guides offered by some of the providers listed above can be found at the following links:

  • NordVPN: Manual router configuration guides
  • ExpressVPN: Router app setup guides, manual router configuration guides, and “How to set up your Samsung Smart TV to use MediaStreamer.”
  • IPVanish: Manually set up a VPN on your existing router
  • PrivateVPN: Router setup guides
  • CyberGhost: CyberGhost VPN for Routers and other Devices

See also:

  • Best VPNs for DD-WRT routers
  • Best VPN for Tomato routers
  • Best VPN for routers to secure IoT devices
  • Best VPNs for Netgear routers
  • Best VPNs for Asus routers

Because many smart TV VPN setups require router configuration, instead of searching for the VPN documentation for your particular brand of TV, you’d be better off finding the setup guide for your particular router.

Paid VPN providers are keen to ensure that their service works in the way you need it to and will offer support and troubleshooting assistance when required. If you run into issues, you can simply contact your provider via live chat, email, or social media, and someone can help walk you through setup or help resolve any problems.

Finding the best VPNs for smart TVs: our methodology

Many people use VPNs to watch their favorite streaming services on their desktop and mobile devices. However, it may be that you want to watch geo-restricted TV shows and movies on the big screen: your smart TV! Below, we outline our methodology for finding the best VPNs for smart TVs.

We run tests for speed, security, and more with each and every VPN. This is all just part of our VPN testing methodology which helps us better understand what a VPN does and doesn’t offer and whether it can be classed as one of the best VPN for smart TVs.

Can I use a VPN on my smart TV without configuring my router?

If you can’t install the VPN directly onto the TV and you don’t want to mess with your home router, you do have a couple more options. The most basic would be to connect your TV to your VPN-protected laptop or PC and simply view what’s on your computer screen. Although, this really defeats the purpose of a smart TV.

Another option is to create a virtual router from your laptop or PC and turn it into a wifi hotspot. Doing this will let you run your smart TV through the protected network. For PC users, our dedicated guide for setting up a Windows VPN-enabled wifi hotspot can help you out. Similarly, if you’re a Mac user, we have an alternative guide for setting a VPN-enabled wifi hotspot on macOS.

While this is a simpler option than configuring a router, it does require you to always have a computer up and running to act as a router.

What smart TV apps can a VPN help me securely access?

One of the most popular uses for a VPN with a smart TV is to regain access to the same services you’d use back home. Here are just some of the sites that a VPN can help you securely access:

Streaming content isn’t the only thing that’s geo-restricted these days, and some countries restrict access to popular sites including YouTube and Google (including Google Play apps). Thankfully, a VPN can help you use any app for a smart TV that is restricted by region. For example, if YouTube is blocked where you are, accessing it through a VPN shouldn’t be an issue.

One area where smart TVs lack in general is VoIP calls. Unfortunately for Skype users, the company discontinued its smart TV app a couple of years ago. Tellybean offers an alternative for some TV brands and its small company size means it’s probably not under the radar of blockers, so could probably even be used without a VPN.

What’s more, many DNS proxies can’t be configured with a smart TV or home router. Even if you can get it set up, proxies tend to have fewer location options, so you might not be able to access the region-specific sites you’re looking for. One proxy that doesn’t suffer from this problem is ExpressVPN’s Media Streamer which can be set up to work with a smart TV.One more important area where proxies are lacking is security. They don’t encrypt your traffic, so it’s possible that your activity will be monitored by your ISP or other snoopers. You may even be subject to monitoring by the proxy provider itself.