How to Watch ESPN Live Without Cable in 2024

ESPN is only available in the US so, if you’re not in the States, you won’t be able to watch it. ESPN+ or other streaming services that carry the channel (like FuboTV or Sling TV) check your IP address to see where you are. If they see your IP isn’t from the US, you get blocked.

A VPN can hypothetically connect you to a US server to watch ESPN. However, using a VPN in this way usually goes against most streaming platforms’ terms and conditions. It can also be considered copyright infringement.

If you just want a VPN to watch live sports in HD (by bypassing ISP throttling, for example), ExpressVPN is the most reliable for streaming ESPN. It gave me the fastest speeds of all the services I tested and I found the apps easy to use on my smartphone, laptop, and smart TV. You can test ExpressVPN for yourself without risk as it has a reliable 30-day money-back guarantee (I tried it myself).

Editors' Note: Expressvpn and this site are in the same ownership group.Watch ESPN in HD With ExpressVPN >>

Best VPNs to Watch ESPN Live Online in HD in 2024

1. ExpressVPN — Fast and Stable Speeds for Uninterrupted ESPN Live Streaming

Editor’s Choice Editor’s Choice Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Tested April 2024

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try ExpressVPN >

www.ExpressVPN.com

ExpressVPN is my top pick for watching ESPN live as it’s the fastest VPN on this list, making it ideal for UHD streaming. From the US, I tested ExpressVPN’s server in New York, Washington DC, and New Jersey and got excellent speeds — I only lost around 9% of my base speeds. Many VPNs reduce your speeds by more than 50% (due to encryption) so this is very impressive.

I used ExpressVPN's Los Angeles server to watch TUF

The large server network with 24 locations in the US means you have many options for watching ESPN in HD. No matter which state you’re in, you should be able to find a server near you to get the best speeds. This also reduces congestion during peak times, so you can expect no interruptions while watching ESPN. I tried five US servers, and they all consistently worked with the platform.

The only downside is that ExpressVPN is slightly expensive, starting at $6.67/month. However, it currently offers a discount of 49% when signing up. You can also try ExpressVPN risk-free — every plan is covered by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Useful Features

• Pre-configured app. You won’t have to configure any settings for streaming in the ExpressVPN app for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Fire Stick, and more. It’s designed so that each connection uses the best available protocol. This is usually the Lightway protocol, and its speedy connections are great for watching ESPN live without cable.
• MediaStreamer. This is ExpressVPN’s Smart DNS service that helps you connect on devices that don’t support VPNs. It means you can watch ESPN on the big screen, via devices like gaming consoles or smart TVs. It doesn’t encrypt your data, so you should be able to get even faster streaming speeds with it.
• Shortcuts. This feature lets you save specific websites that you use frequently so you can open them and connect to the VPN simultaneously with just a click. I added ESPN and a couple of other platforms that offer ESPN content, which saved me a lot of time during testing.
• 24/7 live chat support. ExpressVPN offers helpful and responsive live chat support. If you’re ever stuck trying to access ESPN, you’ll be able to get help quickly.

2. CyberGhost — Dedicated Streaming Servers to Easily Watch ESPN Content

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

CyberGhost offers an optimized streaming server for ESPN+ that’s regularly updated to make sure it works with the service. I had no problems using my ESPN account in the US. Plus, there are several servers for other platforms with ESPN content, like Sling TV, YouTube TV, and Disney+.

You can find servers optimized for ESPN+, Hulu, Sling TV, and more in the For streaming tab of the app

CyberGhost’s fast speeds ensure you smooth live streaming on ESPN. I connected to its streaming-optimized servers for ESPN+, Hulu, and Sling TV to test its performance. There was no loss of quality or buffering throughout the whole stream. Even though I lost 20% of my base speeds on average, which is slower than ExpressVPN, I could still easily stream in HD.

Unfortunately, CyberGhost only offers a 14-day money-back guarantee on its monthly plan. However, you can get a long-term CyberGhost plan starting at only $2.03/month, which is backed with a 45-day money-back guarantee.

Useful Features

• App rules. This feature lets you set rules that make CyberGhost automatically connect to a server of your choice when you open certain apps, like ESPN. This is great, as it’ll let you start watching live or on-demand sports with just a few clicks.
• Random port selection. This makes it easier to bypass port-based VPN blocks so that you can watch ESPN even on restrictive networks. When I tried this on my strict campus library network, I could watch a live football match with no issues.
• Wide range of apps. CyberGhost offers native apps for Android TV and Fire Stick, so you can watch ESPN easily on your big screen.

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Large US Server Network to Watch ESPN Games in Any State

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ FIFA+ Netflix

Disney+ APV More

Try Private Internet Access >

www.PrivateInternetAccess.com

PIA has an extensive server network with 53 options in the US, so you can easily find a server near you. I tested multiple PIA US servers and they all worked with ESPN+ reliably. This extensive server network also means less overcrowding, leading to better speeds and less buffering.

I used PIA’s US West streaming-optimized server for watching ESPN+

The first time I used PIA, I was initially worried that I’d have to manually configure every connection due to its wide array of customization options. However, PIA’s app comes pre-configured, so you don’t have to tweak anything to use it, which is good if you’re a beginner.

PIA’s plans start at just $2.03/month, making it a good value for your money. Its 30-day money-back guarantee also means you can test PIA with ESPN risk-free.

Useful Features

• Streaming-optimized servers. PIA offers two US streaming-optimized server locations (East and West), so you can watch ESPN with no buffering or slowdowns. These are different from CyberGhost’s dedicated servers in that they’re not optimized for specific platforms.
• Dedicated IP. You can buy a dedicated IP address for a small monthly fee. This IP will belong to you only, so it’s less likely ESPN will block your IP address for being linked to VPN use.

4. NordVPN — Sleek and Intuitive App Design to Easily Stream ESPN on Any Device

Works With:

Sky Dazn Netflix Disney+

APV More

Try NordVPN >

www.nordvpn.com

NordVPN’s intuitive and easy-to-use app helps you to start streaming ESPN with no delays. There is a world map, search bar, Quick Connect feature, and a list for finding specific servers, so navigating the app is effortless. Plus, above the search bar, you can find the last 5 servers that you used, and you can connect to them with just a click.

NordVPN’s world server map makes it easy to pinpoint server locations for ESPN

During testing, I tried multiple US servers. I was able to reliably stream ESPN's live sports coverage with all of them. The only issue I found was that servers in states that are a bit further away sometimes took up to a minute to connect. However, it was easy to hop to a different server in the same location that connected instantly.

Every NordVPN plan is backed by 30-day money-back guarantee, so you have ample time to test it with ESPN.

Useful Features

• NordLynx. NordLynx is NordVPN's proprietary protocol based on WireGuard, and it’s designed to offer fast speeds for streaming. So, it’s a great choice for ESPN.
• Kill switch. NordVPN’s kill switch automatically turns off your internet if your VPN connection fails unexpectedly, maintaining your online privacy at all times.

5. Surfshark — Stream Multiple ESPN Games At the Same Time With Unlimited Connections

Works With:

ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+ Netflix

Disney+ APV More

Try Surfshark >

www.surfshark.com

Surfshark is my family’s go-to choice, as it lets us stream ESPN on any of our devices without disconnecting anyone. My dad watches NFL on our Amazon Fire TV while I stream NBA on my laptop, and my sister watches Max on her tablet. Whatever device you use, Surfshark's apps proved to be modern and user-friendly during testing.

Surfshark’s still provided high-quality streams even with multiple simultaneous connections

I experienced fast speeds on local servers, though I did lose approximately 35% of those speeds when I tried servers in states on the other side of the US. Despite this, my fast internet connection allowed me to watch ESPN without buffering, though some occasional blurring occurred. So, if you have good base speeds, you should still be able to stream in HD.

Experience Surfshark's performance with confidence using its 30-day money-back guarantee, specifically tailored for testing its capabilities with ESPN.

Useful Features

• Bypasser. Surfshark’s split tunneling feature lets you choose websites or IP addresses to go through or bypass the VPN. I use this with ESPN to optimize my speeds for streaming.
• In-app speed test. This tool lets you check server speeds across the US and select the fastest one for watching ESPN.

Editors' Note: Intego, Private Internet Access, Cyberghost and Expressvpn are owned by Kape Technologies, our parent company.

Tips on How to Choose the Best VPN for ESPN

These are the criteria I used while testing VPNs with ESPN — feel free to swipe this list if you want to conduct your own tests.

• Works with streaming platforms. With ESPN’s content being available on more than just ESPN+, I gave extra points to VPNs that work with these other platforms (YouTube TV, Hulu, etc.).
• Plenty of US servers. You need to connect to a local server to continue using your ESPN or other streaming accounts.
• Fast speeds. I prioritized VPNs that offer fast speeds with minimal reductions from your base connection, as this will let you stream live and on-demand sports without buffering.
• Ease of use. You don’t need to have experience with VPNs to use any of my recommended providers. Each app is easy to use, intuitive, and offers different ways of connecting so you can start watching ESPN with just a few clicks.
• Reliable refunds. A trustworthy money-back guarantee allows you to test the VPN for yourself and get your money back if you’re not happy for any reason.

Where Can I Watch ESPN Live Online?

Here are all the streaming platforms that let you watch ESPN live online. Just note that, while some of these services are available abroad, ESPN content is strictly US-only. If you try to watch it from anywhere else, you’ll get this image:

If you try to watch ESPN+ outside the US, you’ll see an “unexpected error occurred” notification

While a VPN can theoretically help you watch some of these platforms from other countries, using a VPN to watch ESPN outside the US goes against most streamers’ ts & cs. It can also amount to copyright infringement, which vpnMentor doesn’t condone.

ESPN Website

ESPN has a dedicated website where you can watch video clips and content from its TV channels by logging in with your US cable TV provider. To watch ESPN live without cable, you can sign up on different streaming platforms where it's available, like the ones below.

ESPN+

ESPN+ is a separate streaming and on-demand content platform. It includes live events and shows like The Ultimate Fighter that aren’t available on the live channel. It's only available in the US.

fuboTV

fuboTV’s starter pack includes ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPN3, ESPNU, ESPNews. You can test fuboTV with a 7-day free trial before subscribing for a long-term plan. Depending on your package, you’ll get 250 to 1,000 hours of DVR storage. The “family share” upgrade allows you to watch it on 3 devices simultaneously.

Sling TV

The Orange plan on Sling TV offers 31 channels, including ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPN3. You need the Sports Extra add-on for ESPNU, ESPNews, ESPN SEC Network, and ESPN SEC Network+. It also offers 50 hours of cloud DVR storage with support for all major devices, including Amazon Fire TV, Roku, Macbook, and others.

Hulu + Live TV

Hulu + Live TV offers ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNews, ACC Network, and SEC Network. You can stream on Hulu’s website through any desktop browser or download the Android, Apple TV, or gaming console app. Or, use your Hulu credentials to watch ESPN3 on the ESPN app.

The service includes unlimited cloud DVR storage, a library for on-demand streaming, and the availability of more than 85 channels. It also allows for simultaneous viewing on two screens. However, Hulu + Live TV does not offer a free trial.

YouTube TV

YouTube TV offers ESPN, ESPN, ESPN U, ESPNews, and ESPN Deportes. You can also record your favorite games to watch them later with no additional costs or storage limits. It offers a 14-day free trial and allows up to 6 simultaneous device connections.

Vidgo

Vidgo is a streaming platform with competitive pricing that offers 150+ channels, including ESPN, ESPN Deportes, ESPNU, ESPN2, and ESPNews. It also allows you to stream on 3 screens simultaneously, with support for all major devices. New customers get a 7-day trial period.

DirecTV

DirecTV offers ESPN live along with hundreds of other TV channels and on-demand content. You can watch ESPN on DirecTV’s channels 206 and 1206. DirecTV subscribers can use their account to access on-demand content in the ESPN app.

Amazon Prime

Amazon Prime Video is one of the most popular streaming platforms. Through Amazon Prime Video Channels, you can subscribe to ESPN and ESPN2. However, this platform’s only available with an Amazon Prime account.

FAQs on Watching ESPN Live With a VPN

How can I watch ESPN without cable in the UK, Brazil, Canada, and Europe?

You can’t, ESPN content is restricted to the US. That’s because only US broadcasters have the rights to stream ESPN’s sports content. It’s theoretically possible to connect to a VPN to watch ESPN, but it’s not recommended. Using a VPN in this way can amount to copyright infringement, not to mention violating the ts and cs of your streaming subscription.

Can I watch ESPN live for free?

Yes, there are ways to watch ESPN live for free. You can watch ESPN free by signing up for free trials on fuboTV, Vidgo, or YouTube TV. However, all of these services are only available in the US, so you won’t be able to use them if you’re anywhere else.

On which devices can I watch ESPN live?

You can watch ESPN live on all major devices and platforms. The streaming service works with Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, plus Samsung, Vizio, Apple TV, and smart TVs. If you don’t have a smart TV, you can use Roku, Kodi, Fire Stick, or your gaming console. All the VPNs I’ve recommended are compatible with lots of different devices.

How can I bypass the ESPN+ blackouts?

You’d have to change your IP with one from another US state — but this can be illegal. For example, using a VPN to get a different state IP address can violate a streaming platform’s terms and conditions (or even break copyright laws). It’s best to stick to using fast VPNs to stream ESPN in HD.

Why isn't my VPN working with ESPN+?

Your chosen VPN might not work with ESPN. You need a VPN that has reliable servers and that’s fast enough for streaming.

Some possible solutions to these problems are:

• Using a VPN with IP/DNS leak protection. You may have to toggle this on in your app settings.
• Contacting your VPN’s customer support. I suggest you get a VPN that comes with 24/7 live chat support so you can get assistance right away.
• Clear your browser’s cookies or try a different browser.
• Change your VPN server or use servers optimized for streaming (if available).
• Use a different tunneling protocol. Some are better than others at hiding VPN traffic and speeds. WireGuard, OpenVPN, Lightway, and NordLynx are all good options.

Can I watch ESPN with a free VPN?

​​No, free VPNs rarely work with ESPN or any streaming platforms. This is usually because they’re too slow for streaming. It’s better to use a trusted VPN with a money-back guarantee. That way, you get guaranteed speeds for streaming live sports in HD.

Free VPNs can also deliberately limit your speeds and data usage until ESPN streaming becomes impossible. Plus, their limited server networks are usually congested with other non-paying users. Free VPNs may even track your browsing data and bombard you with advertisements. Some have been involved in shady practices, such as selling user data to third parties or packaging malware in their installers.

What can you watch on ESPN?

ESPN offers a wide variety of sporting-related content, including live games, events, news, analysis, documentaries, movies, and more. It covers many types of sports and events in the US and globally. Internet issues like ISP speed throttling can ruin live sports streams on ESPN — but using a VPN with ESPN can help you stream in HD.

ESPN+ is a separate on-demand streaming service providing original content. This includes shows like The Ultimate Fighter, ESPN’s 30 for 30 documentaries, E60 sports journalism, and other exclusives.

Watch ESPN Live Without Cable in Minutes

With the help of a reliable VPN, you can stream ESPN live online in HD — even if your internet service provider usually restricts your speeds when you’re streaming. All of the VPNs on my list can offer fast connections for getting around speed throttling and watching live sports events in HD.

Out of all the VPNs I tested though, ExpressVPN is my top recommendation for ESPN. It offers really fast speeds on all of its servers and I found its apps easy to use. It’s also backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. So, you can try ExpressVPN without any risks.

To summarize, the best VPNs for watching ESPN live are…

Rank

Provider

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1

9.9 /10

9.9 Our Score

Save 49%!

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2

9.7 /10

9.7 Our Score

Save 84%!

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3

9.5 /10

9.5 Our Score

Save 83%!

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4

9.4 /10

9.4 Our Score

Save 69%!

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5

9.3 /10

9.3 Our Score

Save 85%!

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