Top 3 at a glance
1. Best VPN overall
2. Best VPN for beginners
3. Best cheap VPN
4. Honorable mentions
How to choose
FAQ
A virtual private network (VPN) is a security software that spoofs users IP addresses location, while encrypting internet connections. The first skill, especially, makes it the perfect tool to use to boost your streaming experience—even when using your Apple TV.
Downloading the best VPN for Apple TV, you would be able to enjoy watching otherwise geo-restricted content no matter where you are. That means TV shows, movies, and even live sports coverage from services like BBC iPlayer which is only available in the UK, and foreign Netflix catalogs with different exclusive titles.
After the tech giant finally released the long-awaited support for third-party VPN software last September, some providers have already launched dedicated Apple TV VPN apps and others will do so soon. Our experts have been regularly trying and testing a ton of services for the past 15 years to recommend only the best. Here, I've compared the security features, performance, usability, and unblocking power of the industry's biggest names to shortlist my top five Apple VPNs right now.
Today's top 3 best Apple TV VPNs:
In a hurry? Check out today's three best Apple TV VPNs.
Andreas is a digital privacy advocate and VPN expert. After completing a Master of Research degree, he turned his attention to cybersecurity—investigating the use of invasive tracking cookies in the charity sector, and fighting for the preservation of our online freedoms.
The best Apple TV VPNs in 2024
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See how my top picks for Apple TV performed in my most recent tests, and what I liked (and disliked) about each provider.
Recent updates
There has been a massive tectonic shift in our VPN rankings following the most recent round of VPN tests. NordVPN has claimed the top spot, hopping over ExpressVPN, and I've adjusted this page to reflect these results.
The best VPN overall
✔️ You're an avid Netflix streamer: NordVPN is my #1 Netflix VPN, capable of unblocking content from around the world in just a few clicks.
✔️ You want a solid all-rounder: with a long list of features and tough encryption, NordVPN is the total package—and won't break the bank.
✔️ You value connection speed: NordVPN currently tops my list of the fastest VPNs, making it ideal for streaming, gaming, torrenting, and hopping into video calls.
❌ Simplicity is everything: The NordVPN apps have a sleek design, but the map-based interface can be tricky to use on smaller screens.
❌ You want access to content everywhere: servers in 61 countries certainly is pretty impressive and will be more than enough for most, but my other top picks boast an even larger network.
🔒 NordVPN is the perfect blend of functionality, performance, price, and security—all while offering exceptional customization. Put its 30-day money-back guarantee to good use for trying out its streaming power.
Visit our NordVPN review for a deeper dive into the provider's all-in-one security solution.
NordVPN recently claimed the crown as best VPN overall, and it's the same story when it comes to the best VPN for Apple TV. You’re getting a best-in-class provider that is easy to use, offering a great overall performance and now even a dedicated Apple TV VPN app.
With NordVPN, you can unblock Hulu, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer and many other streaming services. It's also currently one of the strongest Netflix VPN providers, able to access libraries in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and Japan in our recent round of testing. That's in part thanks to its network of more than 6,000+ servers in 61 countries.
▶ Try NordVPN with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
It's also worth noting NordVPN is one of the fastest VPN around, achieving a staggering 950+Mbps of peak with WireGuard during our last round of testing. These results matched the peaks we saw with Surfshark, Windscribe, Hide.me and IPVanish. This kind of performance is ideal if you're looking to stream with a consistent and reliable connection that'll bid farewell to any buffering woes.
One of our favorite features is Double VPN, which encrypts your internet traffic via two servers and means you don’t have to worry about privacy. Handy to know if, for example, you're using your Apple TV over hotel Wi-Fi and want to be sure that your internet traffic is safe. The handy Meshnet tool can also help you stay one step ahead of Netflix's password-sharing ban. By connecting multiple users to the same Wi-Fi at the same time, with a common IP address, it's possible to access services (like Netflix) that roll out IP-based restrictions.
Admittedly, the service has a few downsides—one of them being the relatively stingy amount of simultaneous connections. Six might not be enough to cover a whole household of gadgets, but now that NordVPN has made its Meshnet feature free for all users, it's possible to create a secure private network that secures up to 60 devices at once.
I'm not a huge fan of the interface of its mobile apps either as they can result a bit clunky—I think these could do with a bit of a redesign. Of course, that won't bother you if all you really want your VPN for is to use it with Apple TV.
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Apps look great, but can feel busy on some devices | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ease of use | Most features are easy to find and use, though the map interface can be off-putting | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Performance | The quickest VPN I've tested | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Unblocking | Unblocks a wealth of content via Netflix and more | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Security and privacy | Tough encryption, double kill switch, and transparent audits | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Customer support | Live chat support is quick to respond and professional | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price | Low-cost plans pack a lot of value | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
The best VPN for beginners
✔️ You want a VPN you can set and forget: ExpressVPN's auto-connect feature means connecting once, and you're always protected.
✔️ You want access to international content: thanks to a broad network of servers across 160 locations in 105 countries and great unlocking track record, you'll have no trouble unblocking content.
✔️ You need a VPN you can trust: ExpressVPN sets the bar for security, with regular audits and a no-logs policy that ensures your information is always in safe hands.
❌ You're on a tight budget: ExpressVPN is a pricey option, and though it's stuffed with features, you might want to check out Surfshark for a more affordable alternative.
❌ You want a reliable Netflix VPN: despite unlocking every platform we tried (Netflix Included), we found ExpressVPN to be inconsistent with US or UK libraries—though it's perfect with Japan or Australia ones.
🔒 ExpressVPN strikes the perfect balance between security, usability, performance, and unblocking capability. See for yourself with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Head on over to our ExpressVPN review for a more in-depth look at this top dog.
ExpressVPN provides an array of impressive features that will improve your streaming experience. Even better as it now offers a dedicated Apple TV VPN app, so you can say goodbye to daunting setting up processes.
One of the best things about ExpressVPN for Apple TV is that it has been developed with 4K HDR streaming in mind, so you can expect fast speeds and a great overall performance. It doesn’t compromise on choice, offering over 3,000 servers across 105 countries.
► Try ExpressVPN with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
ExpressVPN provides access to a range of geo-restricted apps and streaming servers, including Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, BBC iPlayer and YouTube. It adds ITV Hub, All 4, 9Now, and 10Play to its list in our recent tests. It can also unblock Netflix, accessing libraries around the world, though we have found NordVPN to be more consistent with this.
Express is compatible with Apple TV 4K, 4th gen Apple TV, 3rd gen Apple TV, 2nd gen Apple TV and 1st gen Apple TV. The app interface has a clear and straightforward design across the board, making ExpressVPN an excellent choice for beginners.
Speed-wise, we were happy to see its top speeds improved during our last review (from 560 to 750Mbps with Lightway). This doesn't certainly match the likes of NordVPN and Surfshark still, but considering you only need 25 Mbps speeds to stream in 4K, ExpressVPN is more than 30 times faster than what you need for ultra-high definition.
Among my favorite security features are an integrated kill switch, zero-knowledge DNS (its own encrypted DNS for all servers), an audited no-logs policy, 256-bit encryption, a built-in speed test and unlimited bandwidth.
Now supporting eight simultaneous connections, ExpressVPN is a great option for tech-loving households. There's even a special offer for TechRadar readers only...
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Apps are fresh and fun, no matter which device you're using | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ease of use | Features are easy to find and use | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Performance | A speedy provider, but slower than NordVPN | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Unblocking | Unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and more with ease | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Security and privacy | Packed with security features and robust encryption | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Customer support | 24/7 live chat support never disappoints | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price | A pricey pick, but feature-rich | ⭐⭐⭐ |
The best cheap VPN service
✔️ You are on a tight budget: Surfshark is a low-cost provider that holds its own against its premium counterparts—for a fraction of the price.
✔️ You have a lot of devices: secure all of your favorite gadgets, and your friends and family's devices, with unlimited simultaneous connections.
✔️ You need the fastest VPN around: like NordVPN, Surfshark currently tops our charts with over 950 Mbps average speeds.
❌ You want a dedicated VPN app: despite offering easy set up via its SmartDNS feature, Surfshark still lacks a dedicated Apple TV VPN app
❌ You need advanced customization options: for specific features that are not available in Surfshark, we advise looking into NordVPN.
🔒 Surfshark's blazing speeds, great unlocking power and unlimited device allowance prove that a premium VPN doesn't need to come with a premium price tag. See why it's my favorite budget option with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
For more details and insight into this bargain VPN, visit our Surfshark review.
Surfshark is another popular VPN service that offers some great features and can be used with Apple TV—even better as it comes at a fraction of the price. Unfortunately, the provider still lacks a dedicated VPN app for Apple TV devices. However, you can still get it up and running through a few easy steps thanks to its SmartDNS feature (more on this in the FAQs below).
Once set up, you’ll be able to access Netflix libraries around the world, Hulu, BBC iPlayer and a whole host of other streaming services via your Apple TV device. There’s a choice of over 3,200 servers in 100 countries across the world, and to make things easier and quicker, you can connect to the fastest available server with exceptional peaks at 950+Mbps when connected to WireGuard—OpenVPN's speeds were still below average, though.
▶ Try Surfshark with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Besides providing quality service, Surfshark can help you avoid ISP throttling, also known as bandwidth throttling—a common practice of internet service providers (ISPs) that involves limiting high connection speed to encourage you to switch to more expensive internet plans. By masking your online activities, Surfshark prevents your ISP from throttling your connection, allowing you to enjoy your favorite TV shows and movies at high speeds.
If you want to do more than just access TV streaming services, you can install Surfshark on your router. It boasts some great security and privacy features, such as a kill switch, DNS leak protection, 256-bit encryption, a no-logs policy, and protection against malware, web trackers and intrusive adverts. Now, you can even get a Dedicated IP for extra VPN usability paying an extra monthly fee.
Compared to other VPN services, Surfshark is set apart by the amount of value it offers and it's right up there on our cheap VPN guide. For about $2 per month, you can connect as many devices as you like. Should you run into any issues, there is 24/7 support and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
It's worth noting that Surfshark's kill switch had some troubles on Windows last time we checked. Despite these being observed only in extreme situations, they are still worth considering. Nothing to worry about if you will be using the software only on your smart TV, mobile and Mac, though.
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Design | A fresh, modern design that's easy on the eyes | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ease of use | Straightforward and intuitive | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Performance | A super-fast service ideal for streaming in HD | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Unblocking | Unblocks in-demand services from around the world | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Security and privacy | Come with ad and malware blocking, but kill switch has issues | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Customer support | Customer support is friendly and fast, though support articles could be improved | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price | Budget-friendly and excellent value | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Other VPNs I've tested and recommend
✔️ You want a VPN with proven privacy: PIA is a no-logs provider that has proven its claims in court not once, but twice.
✔️ You're into customization: the PIA apps give users all sorts of opportunities to tweak features and settings, down to the nitty gritty.
✔️ You do a lot of torrenting: PIA is a great pick for P2P activity, thanks to an array of torrenting-friendly servers and port-forwarding capability.
❌ You're a total VPN newbie: the customizability of PIA's apps can be a double-edged sword—and potentially too complex for new users.
❌ You care about the best speeds: despite PIA's performance being more than enough for streaming, we recorded yet another drop which makes it the slowest of our ranking.
🔒 Private Internet Access is another affordable VPN, which offers a huge array of servers and deep customizability. Check out its security features in your own time with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Check out our Private Internet Access review for more information about this Linux-friendly service.
Thanks to Private Internet Access' Smart DNS, this is a great choice if you're looking to get an Apple TV VPN. Partnered with its excellent support site brimming with guides, all you'll need to do is following the step-by-step guide to setting it up and you'll be away. With PIA, there's also the option of accessing it on your Apple TV by setting it up via a virtual router.
However, alternatively setting up processes won't be needed for long. PIA's engineers shared their plans of launching a dedicated Apple TV app in February, in fact. That seems to have been delayed for prioritizing a solution to a problem gripping the industry: making split tunneling available for MacOS (which is expected to be rolled out sometime in January).
▶ Try Private Internet Access on unlimited devices.
Aside from sheer compatibility, it does an excellent job of unblocking top streaming services, such as Prime Video and Disney Plus. We were also able to gain access to the Netflix libraries around the world, and this time it regained access to BBC iPlayer with its UK servers.
Admittedly, PIA isn't the fastest VPN on my shortlist. I saw a disappointing drop in performance from 510 Mbps to 360 Mbps when using WireGuard making it the slowest VPN in this list. That's still more than you need to stream and gaming online, but it might be a red flag if speed is your priority.
Beyond streaming through your Apple TV, PIA comes loaded with features that'll better secure a range of devices, with the option to use it simultaneously across up to 10 devices. We really rate its kill switch, as well as its powerful apps across Android, iOS, and the like.
Security is, in fact, the area where PIA shines. All the apps are open-sourced, meaning that anyone can check its code for bugs. Privacy nerds would be also very happy to hear that the provider has also proven its no-logs policy in court on two occasions—a truly no-log VPN, indeed.
✔️ You have a lot of devices to protect: much like PIA, IPVanish offers unlimited simultaneous connections.
✔️ You want fast blazing speed: with staggering peaks of 950+ Mbps, IPVanish matched the likes of NordVPN and Surfshark in our latest round of speed testing
✔️ You want a stress-free set up: also IPVanish recently launched a dedicated VPN app for Apple TV devices
❌ You want to stream Disney+: despite IPVanish proving some pretty reliable unblocking capabilities, it struggled to unblock Disney+ in our latest round of testing.
❌ You want a reliable Netflix VPN: again, IPVanish delivers some mixed results with Netflix—it unblocked UK, US and Japan catalogs, but it failed to do so with the Australia and Canada libraries.
🔒 IPVanish is yet another budget-friendly provider with plenty of great features and unlimited simultaneous connections. It's come a long way since our last deep-dive.
Visit our in-depth IPVanish review to know more.
Characterized by its stylish dark-style app and easy-to-use map interface, IPVanish has brought some serious improvements during our last round of testing. For starters, it's now among the fastest VPN in the block alongside the biggest names like NordVPN and Surfshark. It also launched a new dedicated VPN app for Apple TV to make the setting up process an absolute piece of cake.
The provider might boast a smaller network of just 2,200+ servers dotted across a bit over 75 locations worldwide. Yet, the company actually owns all its servers—and that's something that not many providers can say.
▶ Try IPVanish with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Despite the latest achievements, the provider is still far from being known as the most reliable streaming VPN. We had mixed results last time we checked, in fact. Let's take Netflix, for example. It brilliantly unlocked US, UK and Japan libraries, but it failed to do so with its Australian and Canadian libraries. We also managed to access Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer and 9Now at ease, but we were not equally lucky with Disney Plus and 10Paly.
Likewise PIA, the privacy front is where the provider really shines. IPVanish offers a wealth of security features and customization right within its apps. It also boasts an independently audited no-log privacy policy.
Another feature I really like about IPVanish is its generous unlimited device allowance. This means that you can secure all your other devices as well as those of all your family members with just one subscription. The 30-day money-back guarantee gives you a risk-free way to find out more, but beware, it's for annual plans only—monthly billed users aren't covered.
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Dark and edgy, but generally complicated | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ease of use | Some usability issues and a complex interface | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Performance | Incredibly fast WireGuard speeds | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Unblocking | Decent unblocking with a couple of hiccups | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Security and privacy | Thoroughly audited and reliable encryption | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Customer support | Support articles aren't as helpful as they should be and generally say the same thing | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price | Generally cheap, but renewal prices are quite a sting to users that get caught out | ⭐⭐⭐ |
How to choose an Apple TV VPN?
Outside of a VPN that can unblock your favorite services, demonstrates a fast performance, and comes loaded with some of the best security features, there's one important aspect when choosing an Apple TV VPN you need to check first. And that is being able to install it onto your device in the first place as not many providers offer a dedicated Apple TV app just yet.
While downloading an app is pretty straight-forward, with some providers you'll need to set up a router VPN, or create a virtual router connection to get the full power and security of a VPN on your Apple TV device. While we always recommend making use of a VPNs security capabilities, the slightly less fiddly method is finding a VPN that offers SmartDNS. We explain more about this below.
Surfshark, NordVPN, Windscribe, Hide.me and IPVanish logged the fastest time of all the VPNs we tested with a top speed of 950+Mbps.
Once you've found a VPN that offers some form of compatibility with your Apple TV model, you also want one that ticks the boxes of high-speed servers (this will allow you to stream comfortably in 4K without buffering or degrading of picture).
Depending on your streaming service of choice (e.g. Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, etc.) you'll want to check that the VPN enables you to unblock its feeds when outside of the country. We put all the most popular services to the test. The VPN should also be affordable and uncompromising on security.
Because VPNs can be a little tricky to get set up on an Apple TV unit, you're also looking for a service that has brilliant customer support at hand—either in the form of online support articles or via helpful 24/7 live chat—just in case you run into difficulties.
FAQ
Does an Apple TV device support VPN?
Yes—after years lacking this feature, Apple finally launched third-party VPN support starting with its tvOS 17 update. This means that VPN software developers can now create dedicated applications.
A bunch of providers, including ExpressVPN, NordVPN, IPVanish and PureVPN, already released the long awaited application. If you're using other services you'll need to select a VPN provider that either offers a Smart DNS in its roster of features, or a router VPN app.
How do I use a VPN on Apple TV?
The likes of ExpressVPN, NordVPN, IPVanish and PureVPN now have a dedicated VPN app for Apple TV. Here, all you need to know is downloading the app and logging into your account to start enjoying better streaming.
While other providers will certainly follow suit soon, you can still use a VPN on your Apple TV even if it lacks a dedicated app. There are two main ways to do this as explained in our dedicated guide on how to set up and use a VPN on Apple TV.
TL:DR? Well, the first method is to set up the VPN on your router and then use this connection on your Apple TV. Your chosen provider will offer detailed instructions on how to do this. It’s quite a fiddly undertaking, although you’ll be able to experience all the features of the VPN service on your Apple TV.
The other way is by using a SmartDNS, which will enable you to bypass geo-restrictions and access all the content you want on your Apple TV - so be sure to grab a VPN provider that boasts that function. To do this, you’ll need to head to “network” within the settings of your Apple TV, go to “Wi-Fi” and click on your connection.
You’ll then see an option for “Configure DNS” - press that and change the setting to “manual” instead of "automatic”. Finally, to get your VPN up and running, add its IP address and you’re good to go.
Again, your provider will provide comprehensive instructions and support on how to do this.
- Don't yet own one? These are today's best Apple TV prices and deals
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Disclaimer
We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:
1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).
2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.
We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.
