How to Watch South Park on HBO Max With a VPN in 2024

Reading time: 13 min

  • Lucca RF

    Written by Lucca RF Cybersecurity & Tech Writer

All seasons of South Park are available on Max (formerly HBO Max), but only if you’re subscribed to the US Max service. This is due to other countries holding different licensing agreements with the show’s copyright holders.

Technically, a VPN can assign you a US IP address, which would grant access to the US library of content on Max from any location. But using a VPN this way goes against the HBO Max terms of service, and could be seen as copyright infringement in some instances. The WizCase team doesn’t condone this behavior.

If you’re still interested in using a VPN to stream on Max, it can be difficult as Max uses advanced VPN-blocking technology to protect its license agreements. However, my team and I found that ExpressVPN is the best VPN for watching South Park on Max, thanks to high speeds for UHD streams. 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.

Watch South Park in UHD

Quick Guide: 3 Steps to Watch South Park on Max With a VPN

  1. Get a VPN. For reliable UHD streams on Max, I recommend ExpressVPN for watching South Park.
  2. Connect to a server. The server closest to your physical location typically offers the best speeds.
  3. Log in to Max and start watching South Park! You can stream any of the episodes available, including the latest season.

Important! My colleagues and I don’t condone copyright infringement nor breaking the Terms of Use of HBO Max. All of the following VPNs are no-logs providers, meaning they can’t see your online activity. As such, it’s completely up to you to use these VPNs responsibly and in line with HBO’s terms as well as with the laws of your local jurisdiction.

3 Best VPNs to Watch South Park in 2024

1. ExpressVPN — High-Speed Network for Reliably Streaming South Park

Key Features:

  • 3,000+ global servers and 24 US server locations
  • Fast speeds for flawless streaming in HD
  • Watch South Park on up to 8 devices at the same time
  • 24/7 customer support via live chat and extensive knowledge base
  • 30-day money-back guarantee

ExpressVPN has the fastest speeds of all the VPNs I tested, which is why it’s my #1 pick for streaming on Max. My American colleague measured speeds of 330.04Mbps while connected to a New York server, and a global average of 300Mbps. Max recommends at least 50Mbps for UHD, so this is more than fast enough for bufferless streaming in UHD or 4K quality.

Screenshot of ExpressVPN speed tests showing servers in the US, UK, Australia, and Germany
ExpressVPN’s speeds are more than enough for UHD streaming

While it supports multiple VPN protocols, ExpressVPN’s proprietary Lightway and OpenVPN are the best. Both were similarly fast in my tests, but Lightway was especially quick at getting me connected to each server, meaning I could start streaming almost instantly. Our US team also had 0 connection errors while connecting to Max with either protocol.

ExpressVPN has 24 US server locations and several servers in each spot. This gives you plenty of options if HBO Max doesn’t work with the first server you choose; simply reconnect to a different server and try again.

Screenshot of South Park season 26 streaming on Max, with ExpressVPN connected to a US-New York server.

Our team could easily watch South Park without buffering or lag with ExpressVPN

You can access ExpressVPN’s apps on a wide variety of devices, such as Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, streaming sticks, smart TVs, and more. You can also stream on devices that don’t support VPNs natively by using MediaStreamer, a Smart DNS feature that has a US location. It should take less than 5 minutes to set it up and start streaming.

To ensure none of my identifiable data was visible, I ran several leak tests while connected to various servers. ExpressVPN passed all leak tests, keeping me under the radar from any potential prying eyes.

A minor downside is that ExpressVPN costs a little more than other high-quality VPNs. However, it’s worth the price for its fast and stable speeds, wide global (and US) server network, and strong security. You can also get 82% off on its 2-year + 6 months free plan, which reduces the monthly price to only $4.99.

You can try ExpressVPN risk-free for 30 days since it’s backed by a money-back guarantee. I used it for 10 days before I requested to cancel my subscription through the 24/7 live chat. The agent processed my request immediately with no questions asked — rare for a VPN! My money was back in my account within 5 days.

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 works with: Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Paramount+, Peacock, Discovery+, Showtime, BBC iPlayer, BritBox, Starz, Crunchyroll, fuboTV, Sling TV, DirecTV, YouTube TV, Kodi, and more.

ExpressVPN works on: Windows, macOS, Linux, Chromebook, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Nvidia Shield, Xiaomi Mi Box, Google Chromecast, Roku, Android TVs, smart TVs, Amazon Fire devices, routers, and more.

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 — Dedicated Max Server in the US for High-Quality South Park Streams

Key Features:

  • 11,670 servers worldwide and 11 US server locations
  • Dedicated HBO Max streaming servers in the US
  • Stream South Park on up to 7 devices at the same time
  • 24/7 customer support via live chat and extensive knowledge base
  • 45-day money-back guarantee

CyberGhost has multiple dedicated streaming servers, with one specifically for Max US. This means you can connect to Max reliably as the team ensures that each streaming server is always ahead of blocks and optimized for Max.

Colleagues in America found its regular US servers also work well with Max. However, a little more trial-and-error may be involved compared to using CyberGhost’s optimized streaming servers. Either way, it’s great to have options, whichever you prefer using.

image of CyberGhost's Windows app, highlighting the dedicated HBO Max streaming server.

CyberGhost’s optimized HBO Max US server works well with HBO Max

Although CyberGhost has broad device compatibility, I was glad to see that it provides its own Smart DNS service, with one location being the US. This lets you set up a connection on devices that don’t support native VPN apps, whether you want to stream on a smart TV or game console. Note that this is purely for streaming and doesn’t encrypt your connection.

I was impressed to find no leaks when I ran IP, DNS, and WebRTC leak tests. This is not only good for your security while streaming, but also demonstrates that your real IP won’t be visible to any unwanted third parties, whether you’re streaming, downloading, or just browsing the web.

A small downside is CyberGhost’s speed variance between local and distant servers. While ExpressVPN was consistent across the board, CyberGhost dropped off sharply with more distant servers. Fortunately, they still remained well above the 50Mbps required for UHD streaming on Max, but it’s worth bearing in mind.

You can get its 2-year + 4 months plan for as low as $2.03/month, making it one of the most affordable premium VPNs on the market. You can try CyberGhost for yourself with its 45-day money-back guarantee. I tested this through its live chat, and the support agent approved the refund right away. I got the money back 4 days later.

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 works with: Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Paramount+, Peacock, Discovery+, BBC iPlayer, Canal+, Globo, Crunchyroll, Yle, Foxtel, fuboTV, YouTube TV, Kodi, and more.

CyberGhost works on: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Nvidia Shield, Google Chromecast, Roku, Android TVs, smart TVs, routers, and more.

3. Private Internet Access — Buffer-Free Streaming with Its Vast US Server Network

Key Features:

  • 91 global servers and 50+ US server locations
  • Heavily utilizes virtual servers to provide congestion-free connectivity
  • Stream South Park on 91 devices
  • 24/7 customer support via live chat and extensive knowledge base
  • 30-day money-back guarantee

Private Internet Access ensures that congestion is rarely an issue while streaming on Max, thanks to its impressive array of US-based servers. It provides over 50 US server locations, each with multiple servers — this means you have a higher chance of finding a server that’s not blacklisted by Max, ensuring consistent South Park streaming.

Screenshot of PIA VPN streaming South Park on Max.

Our US team was impressed by Private Internet Access’s reliable Max streams

If you often use devices that don’t natively support VPN apps, PIA offers a SmartDNS service with a US option. This feature is particularly handy for streaming on game consoles, certain smart TVs, and other devices. On top of this, PIA is compatible with a wide range of popular devices, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and more.

You can customize PIA heavily, including its encryption levels. By tweaking these, you can find a balance between security and speed, potentially boosting your streaming speeds. This might seem daunting for beginners, but it’s valuable to have if you want to squeeze the most out of your VPN experience.

However, a minor concern for some might be that PIA is based in the US, which is a member of the 5 Eyes Alliance. This might not be an issue if you’re focused on streaming — however, privacy enthusiasts might have reservations. That said, PIA is audited and has a strong track record of not keeping user logs.

When it comes to pricing, PIA has competitive rates, often featuring discounts on its longer-term plans. For instance, its best value plan is just $2.19 for a 2-year + 2 months subscription.

You can try out PIA risk-free with its 30-day money-back guarantee. I tested this guarantee, and after a brief chat with their customer support, my refund was processed promptly. I had the funds back within a week.

Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

PIA works with: BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Showtime, Discovery+, Canal+, Crunchyroll, Yle, Vudu, UKTV, 9Now, CBC, YouTube TV, and more.

PIA works on: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Opera, Kodi, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, routers, and more.

How I Tested & Ranked the Top VPNs for South Park on Max

I used the following criteria when I tested the best VPNs in 2024 to find the top services for watching South Park on Max:

  • Reliable Max streams — each VPN works consistently with Max, thanks to a large and efficient US server network.
  • Fast connection speeds — essential for uninterrupted streaming, ensuring VPNs consistently surpass HBO Max’s 50Mbps requirement for UHD South Park episodes.
  • Compatible with popular devices — like Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, and complemented by the added advantage of SmartDNS for devices that don’t support VPN apps.
  • Premium security and privacy features — your VPN should have powerful encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and essential leak protection to keep your identifiable details hidden.
  • 24/7 customer support — each service has immediate assistance for any VPN-related issues via live chat, email, and other channels.
  • Value for money — by balancing top-tier features with reasonable pricing, and a money-back guarantee so you can purchase with confidence.

FAQs on Watching South Park on Max With a VPN

What devices can I use to watch South Park on HBO Max?

Max is compatible with a broad range of devices, making it convenient for you to enjoy South Park on many platforms. If you want to protect your device while watching, all our recommended VPNs are also compatible with the following devices and come with multiple simultaneous device connections, so you can stream on all of them at once if you want. Here is a list of compatible devices:

Computers: You can stream directly from the Max website on popular browsers like Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge.

Smartphones and Tablets: Both Android and iOS devices have dedicated Max apps available on their respective app stores.

Smart TVs and Set-top Boxes: Max is available on Android TV, Apple TV, Roku, Samsung TVs, Vizio, XClass TV, and certain other smart TV models.

Gaming Consoles: You can watch Max on PlayStation (PS4 & PS5) and Xbox (Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S).

Streaming Devices: Devices like Chromecast, Amazon Fire TV, and Fire TV Stick also support the Max app.

Can I watch season 26 of South Park for free?

No, season 26 of South Park is exclusive to paid streaming services. In the US, it’s available on Max, and in the UK, it’s on Paramount+. You can watch South Park reliably with a VPN if you’d like to protect your connection while streaming.

Can I watch South Park on other streaming sites like Hulu, Netflix, and Amazon Prime Video?

Yes, but you can only watch the latest seasons of South Park on Max in the US.

Below are some of the streaming services where you can currently find various seasons of South Park:

Streaming Service Location Available Seasons Free/Subscription
Paramount+ UK & US (and some other regions) UK (1-26), US (Some special episodes) Subscription
Now TV UK 16-20 Subscription
Amazon Prime Video Worldwide 1-26 Purchase/Rent
Comedy Central USA Sporadic seasons Subscription
fuboTV USA 5 Subscription
South Park Studios Worldwide Non-specific, many episodes now labeled as “Currently unavailable” Free

Can I use a free VPN to watch South Park on HBO Max?

Technically, yes – but I wouldn’t recommend it. Although there are some good free VPNs, they still have drawbacks, especially for streaming. The main issues include slow speeds, limited server choice, and bandwidth caps, leading to unreliable loading, frequent buffering, and stream interruptions.

A premium VPN avoids all of the above by offering numerous servers around the world (and in the US for Max specifically), high speeds, and unlimited bandwidth.

Never Miss an Episode of South Park

If you want to use a VPN to safely stream South Park from your Max account, you should stick to the best VPNs available. Max uses advanced VPN blocks to protect its intellectual property deals, making it a difficult task.

After in-depth tests, ExpressVPN is the best VPN for watching South Park on Max. It has a huge server network and high speeds that facilitate reliable UHD streams. It also has a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can get a full refund if you’re not fully satisfied.


Summary: Best VPNs for Watching South Park on Max in 2024

Top Ranked Top Choice
ExpressVPN
$4.99 / month Save 62%
Find Out More
CyberGhost VPN
$2.03 / month Save 84%
Find Out More
Private Internet Access
$2.19 / month Save 82%
Find Out More

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.

We review vendors based on rigorous testing and research, and also take into account your feedback and our affiliate commission with providers. Some providers are owned by our parent company.
Lucca RF
Written By Lucca RF
Lucca is a freelance writer for WizCase. He specializes in VPNs, gaming, and cryptocurrency. He's long been interested in cybersecurity and digital surveillance, and his passion for privacy and online safety goes hand-in-hand with this. With regular testing and personal usage of the latest cutting-edge privacy and security software he manages to stay on top of the frequent developments in the field. Lucca has worked as a digital marketer for 7+ years, and continues to freelance for a variety of clients alongside his work at WizCase, including content creation, building and optimizing websites, and more. When he's not working, he enjoys playing basketball, hiking, gaming, and traveling.
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