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vpnMentor was established in 2014 as an independent site reviewing VPN services and covering privacy-related stories. Today, our team of hundreds of cybersecurity researchers, writers, and editors continues to help readers fight for their online freedom in partnership with Kape Technologies PLC, which also owns the following products: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access which may be ranked and reviewed on this website. The reviews published on vpnMentor are believed to be accurate as of the date of each article, and written according to our strict reviewing standards that prioritize the independent, professional and honest examination of the reviewer, taking into account the technical capabilities and qualities of the product together with its commercial value for users. The rankings and reviews we publish may also take into consideration the common ownership mentioned above, and affiliate commissions we earn for purchases through links on our website. We do not review all VPN providers and information is believed to be accurate as of the date of each article.
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vpnMentor was established in 2014 as an independent site reviewing VPN services and covering privacy-related stories. Today, our team of hundreds of cybersecurity researchers, writers, and editors continues to help readers fight for their online freedom in partnership with Kape Technologies PLC, which also owns the following products: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access which may be ranked and reviewed on this website. The reviews published on vpnMentor are believed to be accurate as of the date of each article, and written according to our strict reviewing standards that prioritize the independent, professional and honest examination of the reviewer, taking into account the technical capabilities and qualities of the product together with its commercial value for users. The rankings and reviews we publish may also take into consideration the common ownership mentioned above, and affiliate commissions we earn for purchases through links on our website. We do not review all VPN providers and information is believed to be accurate as of the date of each article.

5 Best VPNs for Hulu That Work in 2024

Angela Jovanoska Updated on 22nd February 2024 Fact-checked by Ben Lawson Cybersecurity Researcher

Hulu offers a rich and varied library of shows and movies, but the platform is only available to viewers in the US. This is due to licensing agreements, which restrict Hulu’s content to within US borders. It also works in Japan, but it has different content.

A VPN can let you change your virtual location to the US or Japan, which means you can hypothetically use it to access Hulu from anywhere. However, be aware that doing so may violate Hulu's Terms of Service and could potentially be considered copyright infringement.

If you’re in the US or Japan, I recommend ExpressVPN for streaming Hulu safely in HD. It offers fast speeds and a reliable network of US and Japanese servers. You can test it risk-free since it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not satisfied, you can get a full refund.

Watch Hulu in HD >>

Short on Time? Here Are the Best VPNs for Hulu in 2024

  1. Editor's Choice
    ExpressVPN
    ExpressVPN
    Ideal for Hulu with high speeds and reliable streaming, error-free.
    70% of our readers choose ExpressVPN
  2. CyberGhost VPN
    CyberGhost
    Features Hulu-optimized servers for seamless HD streaming in the US.
  3. Private Internet Access
    Private Internet Access
    Large US server network ensures consistent, reliable Hulu connections.
  4. NordVPN
    NordVPN
    Proprietary protocol for ultra-smooth UHD streaming, effective even over long distances.
  5. Surfshark
    Surfshark
    Supports unlimited device connections, perfect for streaming in large households.
Important! The team at vpnMentor is against any form of copyright infringement. The VPN services listed below adhere to strict no-logging policies, meaning none of your online activities can be traced back to you. So, it's your responsibility to adhere to all relevant streaming rules and guidelines when using a VPN.

Best VPNs for Hulu — Full Analysis (Updated 2024)

1. ExpressVPN — Fast Speeds to Stream Hulu in UHD Without Slowdowns

Best Feature Fastest Hulu VPN I tested (only a 3% drop on nearby US servers)
Speeds Really fast nearby and long-distance
Device Connections 8 simultaneous device connections
Compatible With Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firestick, smart TVs, and more

ExpressVPN is my go-to Hulu VPN because it’s fast and reliable. During my tests from within the US, I recorded a speed loss of only 3% on its New York and LA servers. The drop was more than 35% with some other VPNs I tested. With ExpressVPN's fast connections, I had no trouble streaming Hulu in HD or UHD (which only requires 25 Mbps). I could even stream in 4K without slowdowns.

Screenshot of New Girl streaming on Hulu with ExpressVPN connectedExpressVPN gave me fast speeds no matter which US server I tried

ExpressVPN offers 24 server locations in the US, and all of them work great with Hulu. I tested 7 different servers while in the US, and all of them gave me reliable connections. It also operates multiple servers in Japan that are spread across 4 different locations (including Tokyo and Yokohama), so you can stream Hulu safely if you’re in Japan (since Hulu technically works there, too).

ExpressVPN offers intuitive apps for all major platforms and devices, including most routers. Plus, if you’re in the US, its MediaStreamer feature lets you stream Hulu on your smart TV, along with other devices that aren’t compatible with VPNs. Using the instructions on its site, it took less than 5 minutes to set up MediaStreamer on my Samsung smart TV and watch Hulu on the big screen.

ExpressVPN is on the pricier side, but it offers frequent discounts with its long-term plans. Plus, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try ExpressVPN with Hulu risk-free. To test it out, I requested a refund via the 24/7 live chat option. The support agent only asked why I wanted a refund, then proceeded with my request. I got my money back in 3 business days.

Useful Features

  • Lightway. ExpressVPN’s proprietary protocol combines fast speeds with a reliable connection. I recommend using it for smooth streaming.
  • Fastest US server. Simply click the United States option in the server list, and you’ll be instantly connected to the optimal US server for your location in the States.
  • Shortcuts. When you connect to ExpressVPN on Windows and Mac, you can add shortcuts to your Hulu (or any other apps and websites) right on the app’s interface.
  • Unique browser extensions. The Chrome and Firefox browser extensions are like a remote control for the full VPN. This gives you a convenient way to connect to its servers and watch Hulu safely directly from your browser.
ExpressVPN Offer March 2024: For a limited time only, you can get an ExpressVPN subscription for up to 49% off! Don't miss out!

2. CyberGhost — Streaming-Optimized Servers to Stream Hulu Safely Without Hassle

Best Feature Dedicated US streaming server for Hulu that works reliably
Speeds Really fast nearby, inconsistent long-distance
Device Connections 7 simultaneous device connections
Compatible With Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firestick, smart TVs, and more

If you’re in the US, it’s easy to stream your desired content on Hulu safely with CyberGhost’s Hulu-optimized servers. You can choose from 3 Hulu connections depending on the device you want to watch Hulu on, including desktop, Android TV, and Firestick. During my tests from within the US, all three worked seamlessly with Hulu, and I had fast connections for streaming with minimal speed drops.

Unblocking Hulu with CyberGhost's optimized serverWatching Hulu with CyberGhost’s optimized streaming server in the US

CyberGhost has one of the easiest-to-use apps I’ve tested, making it a great option if you’re new to VPNs. All of its streaming-optimized servers are gathered in one place. You can also find these quickly by typing “Hulu” in the search bar. Additionally, it lets you favorite servers for easy connections to them in the future.

CyberGhost’s overall speeds are pretty impressive. While in the US, I recorded a speed drop of only 7% on its Hulu-optimized server. I never experienced slowdowns while watching Married at First Sight on Hulu.

The problem with CyberGhost is that its monthly plans are a bit expensive. However, you can save up on your subscription when you sign up for its yearly plans.

CyberGhost offers great value with its long-term plans, and you can try it risk-free with its generous 45-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not satisfied with the service, you can get a full refund.

Useful Features

  • Server distance displayed. You can see how far each server is from your location, so it’s easy to find the closest US server for fast streaming speeds.
  • Extensive US server network. CyberGhost offers 11 US server locations, giving you plenty of local options for watching Hulu in HD.
  • Smart rules. This set of features lets you customize CyberGhost based on your needs. For instance, you can set the VPN to automatically connect to a previously chosen server when launching Hulu, so you can watch your favorite shows safely in HD with ease.
  • Smart DNS. You can use CyberGhost’s Smart DNS service to stream on devices that don’t support VPN apps, such as smart TVs and gaming consoles.
March 2024 Deal: CyberGhost is currently offering 83% off its most popular plan! Take advantage of this offer now and save more on your CyberGhost subscription.

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Huge Server Network for Reliable Hulu Connections

Best Feature Servers available in all 50 US states
Speeds Fast nearby, average long-distance
Device Connections Unlimited simultaneous device connections
Compatible With Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firestick, smart TVs, and more

Private Internet Access has servers in every US state, so it's easy to find a reliable Hulu connection nearby. You don’t have to worry about overcrowded servers, which can cause slowdowns. Plus, there are streaming servers that work well with a variety of streaming platforms. The US East and West Streaming-Optimized servers both worked seamlessly with Hulu when I tested them from New York.

Screenshot of The Amazing Maurice streaming on Hulu with PIA connectedMy connection remained stable with both its regular and streaming-optimized servers

PIA offers great speeds for streaming. While in the US, I tested two locations (New York and Los Angeles) and got an average reduction of 11%. I could watch The Amazing Maurice on Hulu without interruptions.

At first, I lost about 35% when I connected to US servers that were far away from my location in the States. That’s the beauty of PIA, though; it’s customizable, so you can optimize your connection. By switching from AES 256-bit to AES 128-bit encryption, it boosted my speeds by 20%.

That said, its many customization options can be overwhelming if you’re new to VPNs. But since it comes pre-configured, you don’t need to change anything — simply connect to a US server if you’re in the States or a Japanese server if you’re in Japan.

PIA's plans are backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it without risk.

Useful Features

  • Unlimited connections. Since there’s no cap to the devices you can connect, you’ll never have to interrupt your Hulu streaming if someone else in your household wants to use the VPN.
  • MACE. PIA’s powerful ad blocker helps you avoid ads and malware while streaming and browsing.
  • “Favorite” servers. Click on the heart next to your go-to Hulu servers, and you’ll have easy connections every time.
  • Dedicated IP addresses. For a small monthly fee, you can get an IP address that only you can use.
March 2024 Update: PIA doesn't usually have deals or discounts (it's already so affordable), but right now you can get a new subscription for a crazy 82% off!

4. NordVPN — NordLynx Protocol to Maintain High Speeds for Smooth Hulu Viewing

Best Feature Speed-optimized proprietary protocol
Speeds Really fast nearby, fast long-distance
Device Connections 6 simultaneous device connections
Compatible With Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firestick, smart TVs, and more

NordVPN has fast short and long-distance speeds for streaming Hulu in Ultra HD. This is mainly thanks to its NordLynx protocol, which was designed for fast speeds. It’s easy to use — you can find it under settings > connection and it’s in a dropdown menu titled ‘VPN protocol’.

When testing the LA location from NY using NordLynx, I experienced a speed loss of only 7%. The speed remained consistent even on other US servers that I tested. Due to its high-speed connections, I could watch Hulu without buffering.

Screenshot of NordVPN unblocking HuluStreaming was fast with Hulu Japan, too — it just took a couple extra seconds to load the first episode

NordVPN’s SmartPlay feature automatically integrates Smart DNS with the VPN, so you can watch Hulu safely without hesitation. Plus, it comes built-in with the VPN, so it doesn’t require any setup. Simply connect to a nearby US server, and you’ll be able to stream Hulu on any device.

The only frustration I had was that it took almost 20 seconds to establish a connection to some of its US servers — much longer than the other VPNs in this list took. Although, once connected, the connections were fast and reliable.

NordVPN also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you don’t like it, getting a refund is quick and easy.

Useful Features

  • Map Interface. NordVPN has an intuitive map interface where all its servers are displayed as dots — it offers servers in 16 US+ states. Simply click on a dot and you’ll instantly connect to your preferred server.
  • Threat Protection. Threat Protection blocks all types of malware, trackers, and ads, so you can browse and stream without interruptions.
  • Meshnet. Meshnet lets you create an encrypted LAN network and connect up to 60 devices using one IP address. It is useful if you want to stream Hulu while not connected to your home network.

5. Surfshark — Unlimited Connections For Uninterrupted Hulu Streaming on All Your Devices

Best Feature No limit on connected devices
Speeds Fast nearby, average long-distance
Device Connections Unlimited simultaneous device connections
Compatible With Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firestick, smart TVs, and more

With Surfshark, you can connect an unlimited number of devices under a single subscription. This means you don’t have to worry about being logged out of the VPN by other users. To test this, I watched Hulu on a Windows PC with multiple other connections established at the same time, and it never compromised my connection quality.

A screenshot of Maybe I Do streaming on Hulu while connected to a local US Surfshark serverI didn’t experience any slowdowns during the entire movie

Surfshark offers great speeds for streaming. During my tests from within the US, its nearby servers gave me consistently fast speeds, with drops of only 12% on the Los Angeles connection. Our tester in Tokyo also recorded an average speed drop of only 8% on its Japanese servers. There was zero lag as I watched Maybe I Do on Hulu in Ultra HD.

My only problem with Surfshark is that its Windows app is a bit slow to launch. For instance, it took me over 20 seconds to open the app on my Windows 11 PC. But once launched, connecting to servers was quick and hassle-free.

You can test Surfshark risk-free with its 30-day money-back guarantee. If it doesn’t fit your needs, you can ask for a full refund.

Useful Features

  • Rotating IPs. This feature changes your IP address every few minutes without disconnecting you from the VPN and with your location staying the same. This increases your privacy while you stream since your IP address is constantly changing.
  • Dedicated IPs. You can also opt to buy your own IP address for Hulu. Since it’s not shared with thousands of users, you don’t have to worry about running into overcrowded servers that result in slowdowns.
  • Built-in speed test. You can check how fast each server is directly within the app, so it’s easy to find the server that offers optimal speeds for Hulu.

Quick Comparison Table: Hulu VPN Features

The table below provides a quick overview of the key features offered by the best Hulu VPNs. This includes their lowest monthly prices, speed performance, and whether they offer streaming-optimized servers.

In the end, I considered the number of US server locations provided by each VPN as this is the primary licensed location for the service. The more available locations there are in the US, the more likely it is that you'll find a speedy local connection to watch Hulu from the US.

VPN Service Lowest Price Simultaneous Connections Speeds Streaming-Optimized Servers US Server Locations
🥇 ExpressVPN $6.67/month 8 Really fast No 24+
🥈CyberGhost $2.03/month 7 Average Yes 11+
🥉Private Internet Access $2.03/month Unlimited Average Yes 50+
NordVPN $3.09/month 6 Really fast No 15+
Surfshark $2.89/month Unlimited Fast No 25+

Tips on Choosing the Best VPN for Hulu

I employed the subsequent guidelines to identify the top VPNs for Hulu:

  • Works with Hulu. Make sure to choose a VPN that offers reliable servers in the US and Japan that work with the platform. This way, you’ll be able to stream your licensed Hulu library safely in HD. I chose VPNs that offer at least 10 server locations in the US and 1 in Japan.
  • Fast speeds. It is normal for a VPN to slow down your connection speeds, but you should still be able to stream in the best quality without buffering. Typically, you need at least 25 Mbps for UHD streaming, so I made sure all the listed VPNs offer at least that.
  • Device compatibility. Make sure the VPN offers an easy-to-use app for the device that you want to stream Hulu on. All the services on this list are compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Fire devices, but if you want to stream on your smart TV, you should look for a VPN with a smart DNS service.
  • Reliable customer support. Even with the best VPNs, you might encounter an issue where you’ll need to speak to a support agent. For urgent issues, a 24/7 live chat option is much better than email or a support form.
  • Value for the money. A VPN should have the features you need to stream Hulu smoothly without breaking the bank. It should also provide a money-back guarantee, so you can be sure it works without financial risk. I made sure each of the listed VPNs is able to give you a full refund if you aren’t happy with it.

Quick Guide: How to Watch Hulu With a VPN in 3 Easy Steps

  1. Download a VPN. My top recommendation is ExpressVPN. It works well with Hulu and has extremely fast speeds for streaming in UHD.
  2. If you’re in the US or Japan, select a nearby server. Connecting to a nearby server in your country ensures optimal speeds for streaming.
  3. Start watching Hulu. Log in to your Hulu account and enjoy your favorite shows.

FAQs on the Best Hulu VPNs

How can I fix the Hulu home location error?

To get around Hulu’s home location error, you can use a VPN with dedicated IP addresses or a static IP. This way, you’ll have the same IP address instead of being assigned one at random, which can prevent Hulu from throwing the home location error while streaming from the US.

The Hulu “home location” determines which channels you get access to with the Hulu + Live TV service. This depends on the IP address you used when you first signed up, so even if you’re on the other side of the country, you’ll still get to watch channels available in your home location.

Another way to fix this error is to update your network. Hulu lets you change your home location (and the IP address associated with it) 4x a year. So, if you use a dedicated IP address to update your home location, you’ll be able to use your Hulu account without issues.

Can I watch Hulu in HD with a VPN?

Yes, you can watch Hulu in HD and even Ultra HD with a VPN, but it’s best to use a premium VPN service that offers fast speeds for smooth streaming. VPNs inevitably drop speeds due to encryption and the distance traveled to the server you’re using. Fast VPNs ensure the speedloss is minimized — just remember, your speeds can only be as fast as your baseline connection.

I tested each of my recommended Hulu VPNs to ensure they can reach speeds of at least 25 Mbps (which is what you need for streaming in UHD), and all of them gave me speeds even faster than that, so I was able to watch my favorite Hulu shows buffer-free.

Which devices can I use to stream Hulu with a VPN?

All the listed VPNs are compatible with most major devices and operating systems, like Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Fire TV. However, if the device you want to stream Hulu on doesn’t support a VPN app, you should consider a VPN that offers an easy-to-use Smart DNS feature.

This feature will allow you to stream Hulu in HD on devices such as smart TVs and gaming consoles, so you have more flexibility in how you stream Hulu.

Can I watch Hulu with a free VPN?

Maybe, but I don’t recommend it. In my experience, it’s better to get a premium VPN with a money-back guarantee for streaming Hulu without financial risk. Most free VPNs come with severe data caps and speed restrictions, which make streaming virtually impossible. Plus, they often have unreliable connections due to their limited server networks.

Even worse, some VPNs may sell your personal data to third parties for profit, so they aren’t safe to use. Plus, they often come filled with ads that may disrupt your viewing experience and even infect your device with malware.

Get the Best VPN for Hulu

Hulu offers a great selection of TV shows and movies, but the platform is limited to viewers within the US and Japan. While a VPN can give you an IP address from these countries, hypothetically letting you access the platform from anywhere, you should know that this might go against Hulu’s Terms of Service and could constitute copyright infringement.

If you’re in a licensed location, my top recommendation for Hulu is ExpressVPN. It offers fast speeds and plenty of servers in Japan and the US for seamless HD streaming. You can test it risk-free since it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not satisfied with the service, it’s easy to get a refund.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs for Hulu...

Rank
Provider
Our Score
Discount
Visit Website
1
medal
9.9 /10
9.9 Our Score
Save 49%!
2
9.7 /10
9.7 Our Score
Save 83%!
3
9.5 /10
9.5 Our Score
Save 82%!
4
9.4 /10
9.4 Our Score
Save 67%!
5
9.3 /10
9.3 Our Score
Save 85%!
Privacy Alert!

Your data is exposed to the websites you visit!

Your IP Address:

Your Location:

Your Internet Provider:

The information above can be used to track you, target you for ads, and monitor what you do online.

VPNs can help you hide this information from websites so that you are protected at all times. We recommend ExpressVPN — the #1 VPN out of over 350 providers we've tested. It has military-grade encryption and privacy features that will ensure your digital security, plus — it's currently offering 49% off.

Visit ExpressVPN

We review vendors based on rigorous testing and research but also take into account your feedback and our affiliate commission with providers. Some providers are owned by our parent company.
Learn more
vpnMentor was established in 2014 as an independent site reviewing VPN services and covering privacy-related stories. Today, our team of hundreds of cybersecurity researchers, writers, and editors continues to help readers fight for their online freedom in partnership with Kape Technologies PLC, which also owns the following products: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access which may be ranked and reviewed on this website. The reviews published on vpnMentor are believed to be accurate as of the date of each article, and written according to our strict reviewing standards that prioritize the independent, professional and honest examination of the reviewer, taking into account the technical capabilities and qualities of the product together with its commercial value for users. The rankings and reviews we publish may also take into consideration the common ownership mentioned above, and affiliate commissions we earn for purchases through links on our website. We do not review all VPN providers and information is believed to be accurate as of the date of each article.

About the Author

Angela is a tech content writer with a keen interest in data protection and cyber threats. She enjoys researching and writing about the latest cybersecurity trends and believes strongly in the importance of online privacy.

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