5 Best Free VPNs for Streaming Safely in 2024
Reading time: 20 min
Updated on November 01, 2024
Finding a truly free VPN to stream online content securely can be challenging as the majority of them have limited bandwidth and servers. Some have hidden costs, while others may secretly be collecting your data.
My teammates from around the world and I reviewed numerous free VPNs to find the best ones for streaming your favorite content. The free VPNs shortlisted have good speeds, work with streaming content in dozens of countries, and have better privacy features than others.
If you’re looking for a superior streaming experience, you need to invest in a premium VPN like ExpressVPN. It’s safe, refreshes its IP addresses frequently so you don’t face blocks or errors for reliable and smooth streaming. It also doesn’t limit data and offers 24/7 live chat support. You can try ExpressVPN risk-free, as it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
Quick Guide: Best Free VPNs for Streaming in 2024
- ExpressVPN — Best paid VPN for streaming, with lightning-fast speeds on global servers. You can try ExpressVPN risk-free. If it’s not for you, you can get a refund with its 30-day money-back guarantee.
- CyberGhost — Streaming-optimized servers, but occasional slow speeds on distant servers.
- Proton VPN — Enjoy streaming with unlimited bandwidth. However, the free version has limited server locations.
- Hotspot Shield — Intuitive app with a user-friendly interface for streaming, but the free version has ads.
- Hide.me — Works with multiple streaming platforms. However, the data limit might restrict lengthy streaming sessions.
Important! Most streaming platforms are geo-restricted to protect copyright and distribution agreements. Using a VPN to access streaming platforms that aren’t typically available in your location will most likely break that service’s terms of service. While each of the VPNs recommended below has a no-logging policy and doesn’t store your online activity, it’s still your responsibility to use a VPN responsibly. Please don’t use a free VPN to break any rules or laws.
Editor’s Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: ExpressVPN, Cyberghost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
The Best Free VPNs for Streaming (Tested 2024)
1. ExpressVPN — #1 Best VPN for Streaming Content Globally with a Risk-Free Purchase
Key Features:
- Lowest price of $4.99, and you can save up to 82% on the 2-year + 6 months free plan.
- 3,000 high-speed servers in 105 countries for uninterrupted streaming.
- Audited no-logs policy, automatic kill switch, AES-256 bit encryption, and anonymous browsing.
- Connect up to 8 devices simultaneously.
- Compatible with PC, Mac, iOS, Chromebook, Android, Kindle Fire, Fire TV Stick, etc.
- 30-day money-back guarantee with 24/7 responsive customer support on all plans.
Although it’s not free, ExpressVPN is the best VPN for streaming. Its reliable server network and optimized infrastructure consistently deliver smooth and buffer-free streaming sessions. ExpressVPN’s high-speed servers make it a top choice for me and my teammates from around the world when we need to watch our favorite local content without lag.
ExpressVPN boasts 3,000 high-speed servers in 105 countries, making it highly reliable for streaming content from anywhere. It outshined other VPNs with its superfast Lightway protocol for seamless streaming. The speed test results reached 120 Mbps on a 150 Mbps connection. My colleagues and I connected to over 30 ExpressVPN servers in Germany, the UK, the US, and Japan and enjoyed lag-free UHD streams on Netflix, Hulu, etc.
My teammate in the US streamed her favorite local content seamlessly, including the popular US-exclusive show, The Handmaid’s Tale. Unlike free VPNs that don’t work with most streaming platforms, my colleagues and I found ExpressVPN works with most, like:
| Netflix | Hulu | Disney+ | Amazon Prime Video |
| Max (formerly HBO Max) | NBC Peacock | BBC iPlayer | ITV Hub |
| Sling TV | Apple TV+ | Mubi | Peacock |
ExpressVPN’s unique TrustedServer technology ensures that all your browsing data is wiped with each reboot, providing even more privacy and security against potential threats. ExpressVPN also offers:
- Network lock — prevents accidental exposure of your internet traffic if the VPN connection drops.
- AES 256-bit encryption — secures your online streaming activities from prying eyes.
- No-logs policy — keeps no logs of your online activities, ensuring data privacy.
- Split tunneling — allows you to control which apps use the VPN and which access the internet directly.
- Kill switch — cuts off your internet access, preventing data leaks when your VPN connection falters.
- Obfuscated servers — mask your VPN traffic to avoid detection that could block your connection.
- Anonymous payment options — pay for your subscription using Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies, maintaining your financial privacy online.
I also tested ExpressVPN’s compatibility and with a single subscription, I could connect seamlessly on different devices, including PC, Mac, and iOS devices. I could transition from work on my PC to streaming on my Fire TV Stick without missing a beat. You can actually connect up to 8 devices at a time.
Unfortunately, ExpressVPN isn’t truly free. However, its 2-year + 6 months free plan comes at an affordable $4.99 a month. ExpressVPN is well worth it considering its outstanding streaming speeds, security features, and wide range of servers.
ExpressVPN’s 30-day money-back guarantee offers a risk-free purchase experience. If you’re unsatisfied, you can get a refund through live chat support, with no questions asked. I tried it myself, and within 3 days, my refund request was approved without hassle.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
ExpressVPN is compatible with: Windows, Mac, Chromebook computers, iOS, Android, Linux, iOS, Android, routers, game consoles, Amazon Fire TV and Fire TV Stick, Kindle Fire, and other smart TVs, such as Apple TV and Google Chromecast.
Get ExpressVPN's Black Friday Deal! You can subscribe to ExpressVPN for as low as $4.99 per month + get extra 6 months free with the 2-year plan (save up to 82%)! This is a limited offer so grab it now before it's gone. See more information on this offer here.
2. CyberGhost VPN — Optimized Servers for Seamless and Safe Streaming
Key Features:
- 11,670+ servers, including optimized servers for streaming in 100 countries.
- Save up to 84% on the 2-year + 4 months plan for $2.03.
- Strict no-logs policy, automatic kill switch, and AES-256 encryption.
- 7 simultaneous devices connection.
- Generous 45-day money-back guarantee.
CyberGhost is the only VPN on this list that has optimized servers for streaming. CyberGhost’s optimized servers ensure fast and stable connections, allowing me to stream without buffering. CyberGhost also offers dedicated IPs, which helps to avoid proxy errors.
Although CyberGhost is not completely free, it has free web browser extensions that allow you to connect to 4 servers in the US, Germany, Romania, and the Netherlands without any data cap. I also tried the 24-hour free trial version on my PC, which gave me full access to premium features. This is a good option if you’re seeking a quick VPN solution for one-time streaming access.
With a large global network of 11,670 servers in 100 countries, you can easily find a server that works with your local streaming platform. My global team tested more than 25 CyberGhost servers in the US, UK, Greece, Japan, and Germany and watched shows like Stranger Things on Netflix and Peaky Blinders on BBC iPlayer.
During the massive testing conducted by my teammates from around the world, CyberGhost proved to work with all the following streaming platforms:
| Netflix | Hulu | Disney+ | Amazon Prime Video |
| Max | BBC iPlayer | ITV Hub | Sling TV |
I found CyberGhost to be incredibly user-friendly for streaming content. I particularly liked its compatibility with multiple devices, allowing me to stream seamlessly on various platforms. Also, with CyberGhost’s 7 simultaneous connection support, I enjoyed streaming on my laptop while using it on my smartphone without any issues.
In addition to its anonymous browsing feature, which ensures your online activities remain private and untraceable, CyberGhost’s security features include:
- AES 256-bit encryption — encrypts your data from potential hackers.
- Strict no-logs policy — ensures your streaming activities remain confidential.
- Kill switch — prevents data leaks if your VPN connection drops.
- Wi-Fi protection — secures your streaming sessions on public Wi-Fi networks.
- DNS and IP leak protection — keeps your actual IP address and DNS requests hidden.
I experienced occasional congestion and slow speeds during peak hours. A teammate in London also tested CyberGhost’s browser extension and achieved 40 Mbps on a 100 Mbps local connection. Though a significant drop, it was sufficient for lag-free UHD streaming on Netflix UK.
With CyberGhost’s $2.03/month price, you can save up to 84% if you subscribe to the 2-year + 4 months plan. What’s best, you can try CyberGhost for free for 45 days, thanks to its money-back guarantee. If you’re not satisfied with the service, it’s easy to request a refund.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as CyberGhost VPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
CyberGhost VPN is compatible with: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, iOS, Android, game consoles, smart TVs, Google Chrome, and Microsoft Edge.
Get Black Friday Deal and Cyber Monday Deal from CyberGhost! You can subscribe to CyberGhost for as low as $2.03 per month + get an extra 4 months free with the 2-year plan (save up to 84%)! This is a limited offer so grab it now before it's gone. See more information on this offer here.
3. Proton VPN — 100% Free VPN with Unlimited Data for Streaming
Key Features:
- 100% free VPN connection.
- No data or bandwidth caps for streaming.
- Over 4,988 encrypted servers and a strict no-logs policy.
- Connect up to 10 devices on the paid plans and just 1 on the free plan.
- All plans have a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Proton VPN’s free plan stands out as the only one with unlimited data caps for streaming, with no ads. While testing the free version of the VPN, my US colleagues enjoyed a seamless and secure streaming experience on Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Netflix.
Signing up for Proton VPN is hassle-free, as it only needed me to supply my email address. In less than 4 minutes, I could sign up for free, download the app, and automatically connect to the best server near me using the Quick Connect feature. I like that I could also easily sign in to my account on my web browser if I didn’t want to launch the Proton VPN client.
Proton VPN’s Secure Core architecture and Perfect Forward Secrecy are unique security features that provide an added layer of protection for streaming content globally. Here are more crucial security and privacy features that ensure a secure streaming experience:
- AES-256 encryption — encrypts your internet traffic, protecting you from hackers.
- NetShield ad-blocker — protects you from seeing ads.
- DNS leak prevention — keeps your real IP address and DNS requests hidden.
- Kill switch — prevents data leaks if your VPN connection drops.
- Strong Swiss privacy laws — based in Switzerland, which is known for its strict privacy laws.
My international teammates tested 20 Proton VPN servers in the Netherlands, Japan, and the US — the only locations with servers on the free plan. They were able to watch their usual local content, including The Irishman on Netflix. Proton VPN also worked with:
| BBC iPlayer | ITV Hub | Voot | Hulu |
| ZDF Mediathek | ABC iview | Globo Play | RaiPlay |
I achieved decent streaming speeds with Proton VPN, reaching up to 50 Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection. But, there was congestion during peak hours, resulting in slightly slower connections.
However, the free version has a few more limitations, such as limited server locations and the absence of 24/7 live chat support. Also, you can only connect 1 device per time. But unlike most free VPNs, I could connect Proton VPN to my Wi-Fi router and stream with any device connected to the router.
Compared to the free version, the paid plan allowed me to unlock various additional benefits. Paid plans offer faster speeds, access to more server locations, and the ability to connect multiple devices simultaneously. You can try the Proton VPN premium version risk-free, as it provides a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Proton VPN is compatible with: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, iOS, Android, Apple TV, Google Chrome, and Microsoft Edge.
4. Hotspot Shield — Intuitive Apps With a User-Friendly Interface for Seamless Streaming
Key Features:
- Free access to streaming servers in the US, UK, and Singapore.
- 500MB daily data usage cap (can be increased on mobile) on the Basic Mode.
- DNS leak protection, data security with encryption, and geo-spoofing.
- 10 simultaneous devices connection.
- 45-day money-back guarantee.
Hotspot Shield is a good free VPN to stream Netflix US, Hulu, and YouTube TV, if you’re in the US. During the tests, the main catch for me was its intuitive Windows App. Downloading and setting up the app on my desktop took less than 5 minutes, and with the auto-connect feature, the VPN client was up and running in no time. Even if you prefer streaming on mobile devices, Hotspot Shield offers easy-to-use Android and iOS apps.
With its free plan, I could stream my favorite content and browse the web anonymously. In addition to masking your IP, Hotspot Shield also offers:
- Automatic Wi-Fi protection — keeps you safe while streaming on public Wi-Fi networks.
- Kill switch — cuts off your internet access when the VPN connection drops.
- IP leak protection — ensures your actual IP address remains hidden and untraceable.
- Strict no-logs policy — prevents it from keeping logs of your online activity.
During tests, Hotspot Shield’s free servers didn’t work with many streaming platforms. But, testers in the US, UK, and other locations confirmed that Hotspot Shield works with the following streaming platforms:
| BBC iPlayer | Viu | Voot | Hotstar |
| ZDF Mediathek | DAZN | ESPN+ | RaiPlay |
During my speed tests with Hotspot Shield, I noticed that it was significantly lower than ExpressVPN, reaching only up to 35 Mbps with 28 MB downloaded. While this was just okay for streaming, it wasn’t as smooth as I wanted. But, I enjoyed buffer-free streaming and high-definition content on the premium version.
While using Hotspot Shield’s free version, I had to deal with several ads on my Android. This affected my streaming experience with the app. However, I was able to bypass the ads when I switched to my PC, and the speeds were fast enough for streaming and general browsing.
Comparatively, the paid plans offer even faster speeds and a more seamless streaming experience, making them worth considering if you prioritize smooth and buffer-free streaming sessions. Hotspot Shield also provides a generous 45-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to try the premium features risk-free.
Hotspot Shield is compatible with: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, iOS, Android, Google Chrome, and Microsoft Edge.
5. hide.me VPN — Great Speeds on its Free Servers to Stream Lag-Free
Key Features:
- Works with popular streaming sites like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and more.
- 2,400+ servers, including fast local servers for streaming in 55 countries.
- Includes military-grade encryption, leak protection, split tunneling, and more.
- Compatible with Windows, iPhone, Mac, Android, and more.
- Free and premium plans with a 10-day money-back guarantee.
Hide.me is a good choice for anyone seeking a free VPN for streaming. It let my teammates in the US watch Netflix US, Disney+, Hulu, and other top streaming platforms on its free servers. And if you want even more performance, hide.me’s premium plan offers 9 optimized servers for uninterrupted streaming.
With hide.me VPN, my teammates around the world could also watch their favorite content on streaming platforms like:
| BBC iPlayer | Amazon Prime Video | Disney+ | Hulu |
| Showtime | ESPN+ | DAZN | AppleTV+ |
During my tests, I checked out hide.me VPN’s 8 free servers in 5 locations – Netherlands, Germany, Canada, USA West, and USA East. The connection speeds were well-suited for my base streaming needs and other online activities. I achieved up to 50 Mbps on my PC during my speed tests. This accounted for a smooth streaming experience with minimal buffering.
Hide.me VPN’s free app is user-friendly and available on Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. Its real-time data and quick-access settings make it easy to connect and start streaming seamlessly. The setup process is straightforward, as I completed it in just 4 minutes. For added ease, I could connect with the auto-connect feature and land on the nearest fastest server available.
In terms of security, hide.me offers 5 secure tunneling protocols (IKEv2, OpenVPN, SoftEther, WireGuard, and SSTP), and I could switch between them during my test. Additionally, it offers:
- AES-256 encryption — protects your online data from third parties during streaming.
- No-logs policy — does not store any records of your streaming activities.
- Stealth Guard — protects your streaming sessions against unexpected VPN disconnections.
- Split tunneling — routes specific apps or websites through the VPN.
However, the free version has some limitations. For me, the most significant limitation of the free plan is the monthly data limit, as I could not use the service for extended streaming sessions. But if you’re not into lengthy binge-watching, then the 10GB monthly data may be just fine.
While hide.me offers great benefits, I recommend upgrading to a paid plan to access more servers and enjoy faster connections. Thankfully, like other VPNs on this list, hide.me also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, which allows you to explore its premium features risk-free.
Hide.me is compatible with: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, iOS, Android, Firefox, Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Amazon Fire TV, and more.
Easy Comparison Table: 2024’s Best Free VPNs for Streaming
| VPN | Bandwidth | Number of Servers | Highest Speed | Device Limit | Best Price |
| ExpressVPN | Unlimited | 3,000+ servers in 105 countries | 150 | 8 | 2-year + 6 months free plan at $4.99 a month |
| CyberGhost | Unlimited | 11,670+ servers in 100 countries | 100 | 7 | 2-year + 4 months plan at $2.03 a month |
| Proton VPN | Unlimited | 4,988+ servers in 71 countries | 100 | 10 | Free plan |
| Hotspot Shield | 500MB Daily | 1,800+ servers in 80 countries | 35 | 10 | Free plan |
| hide.me | 10GB Monthly | 2,400+ servers in 55 countries | 50 | 10 | Free plan |
Warning! Hidden Risks of Free VPNs for Streaming
Free VPNs can be risky for streaming due to potential security and performance issues. Some VPNs sell your data, while some come with malware. I’ve identified a few free VPNs that you should stay away from:
BetterNet
You may experience slow speeds and frequent connection drops while using BetterNet for streaming.
Cross VPN
Several security tests on this VPN revealed potential trojan viruses, with alerts from more than 10 different antivirus services.
SuperVPN
Due to past privacy breaches, such as data leaks, people have raised concerns about confidentiality while streaming. There are also claims that SuperVPN keeps the data of lots of users, including card details.
Thunder VPN
Users have reported slow speeds and inconsistent connections on Thunder VPN. You want to avoid it if you don’t want buffering issues during streaming sessions.
How I Tested and Ranked the Best Free VPNs for Streaming
During my evaluation, I focused on specific features to identify the top free VPNs for streaming:
- Global servers — I prioritized VPNs with free servers in as many countries as possible so there’s a wider range of streaming services the VPN will work with.
- Fast speeds — I tested each VPN’s performance to find those with minimal to no buffering, as speed is crucial for a smooth streaming experience.
- Generous data limits — I sought VPNs offering ample data allocation for uninterrupted streaming sessions, considering that many free VPNs often impose data caps.
- Minimal ads — I looked for VPNs that minimized or eliminated advertising, recognizing that too many unsolicited ads can disrupt my streaming experience.
- Money-back guarantees — I assessed the refund policies of VPNs offering paid upgrades to ensure I have risk-free access to premium features.
FAQs on the Best Free VPNs for Streaming
Is it safe to use a free VPN for streaming?
Yes, it’s safe, as long as you use a safe and reliable free VPN. However, I advise against using a random free VPN for streaming. The risks include limited security, slow speeds, limited server locations, and sometimes ads. Free VPNs often make money through alternative means, such as logging user data and selling it to third parties.
Can I use a proxy for streaming?
Maybe, but I don’t recommend it. Proxies lack the encryption and security features provided by a top VPN for streaming. Additionally, many streaming platforms have sophisticated anti-proxy technologies, so proxies often don’t work. A VPN like ExpressVPN has many servers that work with streaming platforms and advanced security features.
Where can I download the best free VPN for streaming?
You can download the best free VPNs for streaming from their official websites or app stores. Be sure to check the downsides before downloading a random free VPN.
For a comprehensive streaming experience, I recommend a VPN like CyberGhost. It has an impressive global server network, and you can use it for free for 45 days. Other reputable options include Proton VPN, Hotspot Shield, and hide.me VPN.
Get a Free VPN for Safe Streaming Anywhere
When streaming content online, using a free VPN may seem tempting, but many come with several risks and limitations. I tested over 25 options and found the best free VPNs for streaming. However, they still have slow speeds, limited server locations, and intrusive ads which can disrupt your streaming experience.
A reputable premium VPN like ExpressVPN offers a safe and seamless streaming experience. With its wide range of server locations, you can stream your favorite local content without lags while keeping your data protected. If you find it’s not for you, it also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Summary: These Are the Best Free VPNs for Streaming in 2024
Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: ExpressVPN, Cyberghost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
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