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vpnMentor was established in 2014 to review VPN services and cover 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 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 to review VPN services and cover 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 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 IPTV to Stream Anywhere (Working in 2024)

Hendrik Human Updated on 21st October 2024 Fact-checked by Lawrence Wachira Cybersecurity Researcher

Only the best VPNs can avoid speed throttling and securely stream IPTV content from anywhere. However, finding an IPTV VPN that can keep you safe online without causing delays and easily works with all major devices, including Firestick, is challenging.

After my team and I tested 50+ services, I shortlisted the best VPNs for watching live TV and UHD movies without problems. Each has fast servers worldwide and robust security to maintain your online privacy while streaming.

ExpressVPN is my top recommendation for IPTV, whether it's live, on-demand, or catch-up content. It provides impressive speeds for uninterrupted streaming and easy-to-use apps compatible with most streaming devices, such as Firestick, Fire TV, Samsung TV, and Android TV. Thanks to its 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try it risk-free. Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

Try ExpressVPN for IPTV >>

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

  • Editor's Choice
    ExpressVPN
    ExpressVPN
    Fast servers worldwide for streaming IPTV in HD. Plus, a 30-day refund period.
    70% of our readers choose ExpressVPN
  • CyberGhost VPN
    CyberGhost
    Dedicated servers to securely stream IPTV content from anywhere.
  • Private Internet Access
    PIA
    Unlimited connections to protect all devices used to access IPTV websites.
  • NordVPN
    NordVPN
    Great for beginners, with intuitive apps to watch IPTV safely on your favorite devices.
  • Surfshark
    Surfshark
    Regularly updates your IP to avoid third-party tracking you while streaming IPTV.
Be advised. When watching an IPTV service, make sure you’re using an official platform. The VPN services below follow rigorous no-logging policies, ensuring your online actions remain private. As such, the onus falls on you to utilize a VPN in compliance with all rules and regulations. The team at vpnMentor and I are against any form of copyright infringement.

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: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

Best VPNs for IPTV — Full Analysis (Updated 2024)

1. ExpressVPN — Excellent Speeds to Stream on IPTV Uninterrupted From Anywhere

Best Feature The fastest VPN we tested; ideal for streaming IPTV content in UHD
Speed A minimal speed drop of 3% did not affect my streaming quality at all
Server Network 3,000 servers in 105 countries (including 24 US locations) to watch IPTV securely anywhere
Compatible With Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, smart TVs, Firestick, routers, Kodi, Chrome, and more
Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

ExpressVPN’s proprietary Lightway protocol delivers consistently fast speeds for streaming IPTV without buffering. This protocol runs on minimal code and drains less battery, only slightly reducing our base connection of 263.63Mbps to 256.73Mbps testing nearby servers. You only need 25Mbps for 4K streaming, so even if your starting speed is slower, you can watch videos in clear quality from anywhere.

Screenshot of streaming a Star Trek on Pluto TV while connected to ExpressVPN's Los Angeles serverUsing the Smart Location feature, ExpressVPN automatically picks the best servers for your network

I appreciate ExpressVPN's native Android and Apple TV apps, which allow you to stream IPTV on your big screen easily. However, all apps are straightforward, making it possible to securely access IPTV channels, like FobuTV and Crackle, across various operating systems from anywhere. My team and I had no issues watching on-demand content on Peacock TV and Xumo, either — you can use ExpressVPN on up to 8 devices simultaneously.

With its regularly rotating IPs and automatic obfuscation, ExpressVPN reliably works with all IPTV providers. Some IPTVs block known VPN IP addresses to prevent users from abusing an account or accessing platforms unavailable in their country. ExpressVPN conceals your VPN usage as normal internet traffic so that you can watch IPTV even on restrictive networks, like airports or school WiFi.

On the downside, subscriptions are a bit expensive, starting at $6.67/month. However, a long-term ExpressVPN plan offers up to 48% off and an extra 3 months of service free. It also backs its service with a trustworthy 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free. After requesting a refund via 24/7 live chat, I received my money back within 2 days.

Useful Features

  • MediaStreamer. ExpressVPN's Smart DNS feature enables you to watch IPTV content on devices that don’t natively support VPN apps, like older smart TVs and game consoles. However, the feature only supports US, Australian, and UK content.
  • Custom router app. Thanks to a dedicated router app, ExpressVPN is easy to install and use on a router compared to most VPNs, which require manual configuration. This allows you to safely stream IPTV on any device connected to your home network.
  • Split tunneling. I use this feature to direct certain traffic via the ExpressVPN tunnel. Because not all traffic gets encrypted, this gets me better speeds for high-quality viewing.
  • Shortcuts. This feature allows you to add specific apps to ExpressVPN's home screen for quick and secure access.
  • Ad, malware, and tracker blocker. Activating ExpressVPN's Threat Manager and ad blocker features provides extra protection against surveillance and hackers if you inadvertently open malicious IPTV sites.
ExpressVPN Offer October 2024: For a limited time only, you can get an ExpressVPN subscription for up to 48% off! Don't miss out!
ExpressVPN Pros, Cons, and Needed Improvements
  • Fastest speeds of the VPNs we've tested
  • Works reliably with global platforms
  • Industry-leading privacy protection
  • More expensive than some VPNs

2. CyberGhost — Optimized Streaming Servers to Easily Watch IPTV Online

Best Feature Dedicated servers are frequently tested and updated for the best performance
Speed Only slightly behind ExpressVPN, with a 9% speed reduction
Server Network 11,690 servers in 100 countries, with ones also dedicated to torrenting and gaming
Compatible With Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, smart TVs, Fire TV Stick, routers, Kodi, Chrome, and more
Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as CyberGhost VPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

With CyberGhost’s streaming-optimized servers, you can safely watch live and on-demand IPTV sites in just a few seconds. Simply expand the app and click for Streaming — servers are labeled with the platform they support. During our tests, we had no problem using CyberGhost’s Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV streaming servers. Its global coverage is impressive, too, making it possible to watch IPTV channels in HD from anywhere.

Screenshot of streaming the CyberGhost Windows app with its streaming-optimized IPTV servers connected toCyberGhost even has specialty servers for Android TV and Firestick

Its intuitive design makes establishing a secure connection straightforward. With its Smart Rules feature, I set CyberGhost's Mac and Windows apps to connect me to the closest high-speed server when I launch my IPTV service, saving me time. It was just as easy to activate the Block Content feature, which stops annoying and potentially dangerous ads — it even warned me about malicious IPTV sites to avoid.

Speeds are fast on regular and dedicated servers. However, the optimized ones did load videos faster, only a little slower than ExpressVPN. This let us watch EPL on FuboTV without buffering using the WireGuard protocol (CyberGhost automatically chooses the fastest protocol, so you don’t need to).

One minor con is its costly monthly plans with a shorter refund period. However, if you commit to the longer subscription for just $2.19/month, you can stream IPTV with CyberGhost for free using its generous 45-day money-back guarantee. I used the 24/7 live chat feature to cancel and request a refund — my money was paid to my PayPal account within 3 days.

Useful Features

  • MTU size adjustment. Turning this on optimizes your connection by fine-tuning the data packet size for your traffic. This helps maintain seamless IPTV streams, even when your network isn’t that good.
  • Dedicated IPs. My favorite option when I want to avoid the annoyance of repetitive CAPTCHAs while streaming. CyberGhost's dedicated IPs are available at an extra small fee.
  • Simultaneous device connections. You can use CyberGhost on up to 7 devices at once. If that's too few, set it up on your router (it's easy even if it doesn't have a dedicated app like ExpressVPN) and use it on all your WiFi-connected devices.
  • Quickly find a fast server. The VPN displays how far most of its servers are from your location, so it’s easy to choose a nearby one for fast streaming speeds.
October 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.
CyberGhost VPN Pros, Cons, and Needed Improvements
  • Specialty servers based on activity
  • Security essentials; plus bonus options
  • Intuitive and user-friendly apps
  • Expensive short-term plan
  • Can't get past the strongest firewalls

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Unlimited Connections to Securely Stream IPTV Content on All Your Devices

Best Feature Safely stream IPTV on all devices simultaneously using one subscription
Speed Our average download speed on nearby servers dropped by only 11%
Server Network 29,650 servers in 91 countries, including specialty ones for streaming
Compatible With Windows, Mac, Android, iOs, Linux, smart TVs, Fire TV Stick, routers, Kodi, Chrome, and more
Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process.

When opting for a long-term plan, you can use PIA on unlimited streaming devices for just $2.19/month. So, your entire household can securely stream different IPTV channels on various devices. In our tests, we connected PIA to 9 devices at once (including various smartphones, an Android TV, and a Windows PC). There was no dip in performance — it was as smooth as if we were using a single device.

Screenshot of streaming live news TV on Tubi TV while connected to PIA's US West Streaming Optimized serverPIA has streaming-optimized servers in the US, UK, Australia, and more

With thousands of servers worldwide, PIA provides ample options to maintain secure access to IPTV services from anywhere. For example, it has servers located in every US state. The abundance of servers also helps avoid delays due to overcrowding. We tested 5 US server locations and were able to establish a connection with each one within seconds.

Mastering the app's numerous settings can be tricky if you're new to VPNs. However, the customization options are advantageous — for example, you can lower the encryption level to enhance speed. Plus, PIA settings are pre-configured, so you don't need to modify anything to start streaming. Just choose a server close to your location and click to connect.

Thanks to its 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try PIA before committing. Each plan comes with features like a built-in ad blocker (MACE), Smart DNS, and split tunneling. I also tested its refund policy using 24/7 live chat, and it held up.

Useful Features

  • Server latency. PIA displays the latency for each server. This makes it easy for you to choose a low-latency one for IPTV streaming with better speeds. For a small extra fee, you can even avoid slowdowns due to server overload with a dedicated IP that is exclusive to you.
  • Quick Connect. This feature auto-connects you to the best available server based on server load and your location. It saved me the trouble of manually selecting a reliable server for secure UHD streaming.
  • 1-click favorites. I use this feature to save my go-to -servers for quick access next time. Simply click the heart icon next to the server.
October 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!
Private Internet Access Pros, Cons, and Needed Improvements
  • Massive network of servers worldwide
  • Many customizable security settings
  • Unlimited simultaneous devices
  • Tricky for beginners to navigate
  • Based in the US

4. NordVPN — User-Friendly Apps to Safely Access IPTV in Just a Few Clicks

Best Feature Quickly get started watching IPTV online, even if you're a beginner
Speed Only an average speed drop of 14% when using its NordLynx protocol
Server Network 6,431 servers in 111 countries, including 15 US locations
Compatible With Windows, Mac, Android, iOs, Linux, smart TVs, Fire TV Stick, routers, Kodi, Chrome, and more

Getting a new IP for securely streaming IPTV channels from anywhere is simple with NordVPN's 1-click connection. Whenever we tested NordVPN’s Quick Connect, we were instantly connected to the fastest server. You can even use Presets (only on Mac) to create profiles for your favorite IPTV services. For example, I created a shortcut for YouTube TV to automatically use the NordLynx protocol (based on WireGuard) and connect to a nearby US server.

Screenshot of the NordVPN Windows app with a connection to its US Seattle serverI prefer using the search bar to quickly zero in on my desired server

Thanks to NordVPN dedicated IPs, you can avoid unjust blocklists and repetitive CAPTCHAs. These issues are common with shared IPs because IPTV providers often wrongly flag them for bots. Testing dedicated IPs for the US, UK, and Germany, we didn’t run into any CAPTCHAs watching Philo TV or DIRECTV STREAM.

The Windows app's initial slow launch was disappointing. However, once it got going, it worked well and connected us to a US server in just a few seconds. NordVPN's speed was also excellent for streaming IPTV content without buffering from anywhere.

Subscriptions start from $2.99/month, and like ExpressVPN and PIA, there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee backing all options. Getting a refund is easy if you’re not 100% happy. It only took a few minutes to have a refund approved via the 24/7 live chat feature. Also, each plan comes with split tunneling, a smart DNS, and covers up to 10 devices.

Useful Features

  • Obfuscated servers. These servers are designed to camouflage your encrypted connection as regular HTTPS traffic. This helps you maintain an uninterrupted streaming experience on IPTV channels, even on restricted networks such as schools and workplaces.
  • Choice of reliable protocol. This flexibility allows you to switch to another protocol if one doesn't suit your network. For example, to activate NordVPN's obfuscated servers, you must use the OpenVPN protocol.
  • Threat Protection. With this feature, you can filter out ads, trackers, and malware that could put your data at risk.
NordVPN Pros, Cons, and Needed Improvements
  • Various advanced security options
  • Fast speeds from across the globe
  • Excellent streaming capabilities
  • Concerning change to privacy policy
  • Sometimes slow to establish connections

5. Surfshark — Rotating IPs for a Reliable Connection While Streaming IPTV

Best Feature Automatically refreshes your IP while keeping you connected to the VPN
Speed A 10% average speed reduction is great for streaming without delays
Server Network 3,200 servers in 100 countries to quickly find a fast one near you
Compatible With Windows, Mac, Android, iOs, Linux, smart TVs, Fire TV Stick, routers, Kodi, Chrome, and more

Surfshark's IP rotation keeps your IPTV streaming smooth by minimizing the chance of your secure connection being blocked. It automatically changes your IP address to another in the same country every few minutes. Thanks to its intuitive navigation, we could easily find Surfshark’s Rotating IP feature and toggle it during testing.

Screenshot of the Surfshark Windows app with its setting page open and Rotating IP enabledEach IP change prevents the profiling of your streaming activity

Like PIA, you're not limited to the number of devices you can connect simultaneously under a single subscription. We watched IPTV channels while the VPN was connected to 10 other devices, and never experienced a drop in performance. You can even use its Smart DNS feature to watch content on devices without native VPN support, which I did for my PS5.

A slight concern is that SurfSharks is based within the data-sharing alliance of the 9 Eyes. However, it follows a strict no-logs policy, so none of your data gets collected in the first place. You can stream IPTV online while maintaining your privacy.

Trying Surfshark with IPTV carries no financial risk, as all plans include a reliable money-back guarantee. If you're not fully satisfied, you have 30 days to initiate a refund, and you can easily do this via the 24/7 help desk. Its long-term options offer the best prices, starting at $1.99/month.

Useful Features

  • NoBorders mode. When enabled, Surfshark will automatically detect restrictions on your network and adjust settings to get around them. I often use this while traveling to avoid IPTV streaming restrictions on hotel WiFi networks.
  • Speed test. Built right into the app, this allows you to run performance tests on Surfshark servers. You can filter servers by region or type to quickly find the best one for your IPTV service. However, you need to disconnect the VPN to use this feature.
  • Clean Web. This feature can shield you from pesky ads, malware, and trackers if you accidentally end up on IPTV sites that have them.
Surfshark Pros, Cons, and Needed Improvements
  • Unlimited simultaneous connections
  • Security essentials and advanced options
  • Fast and reliable global server network
  • Unreliable with some streaming sites
  • Based in the Netherlands

Quick Comparison Table: IPTV VPN Features

The table below outlines the key features of each VPN relevant to IPTV streaming. This provides a quick side-by-side comparison that can help you make an informed decision.

Lowest price Average Speed Drop Server coverage Device connections Smart DNS Money-back guarantee
🥇ExpressVPN $6.67/month 3% 3,000 servers in 105 countries 8 Yes 30 days
🥈CyberGhost $2.19/month 9% 11,690 servers in 100 countries 7 Yes 45 days
🥉Private Internet Access $2.19/month 11% 29,650 servers in 91 countries Unlimited Yes 30 days
NordVPN $2.99/month 14% 6,431 servers in 111 countries 10 Yes 30 days
Surfshark $1.99/month 10% 3,200 servers in 100 countries Unlimited Yes 30 days

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: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

Our Methodology for Testing VPNs For IPTV

We thoroughly tested every VPN to confirm they can provide reliable streaming on popular IPTV channels without compromising speed or security. Each VPN is also easy to use and compatible with all major devices, including smart TVs.

You can find out more about our VPN testing process by looking at our methodology page. This goes into detail about how our international team of expert testers and reviewers put each VPN through its paces to bring you the most up-to-date information.

Tips on Choosing the Best VPN for IPTV

We used comprehensive criteria to shortlist the best IPTV VPNs. You can use our checklist to choose an IPTV VPN that best suits your needs.

  • Server network. A VPN with good server coverage is essential for securely streaming IPTV content from anywhere. More servers make it easy to find a reliable one for uninterrupted streaming.
  • Fast speeds. Stream IPTV content in full HD or 4K by selecting a VPN that delivers fast speeds. One that minimizes speed drops to less than 20% is the best option, as it'll facilitate smooth playback.
  • Easy to use. Choose a VPN for IPTV with intuitive apps to get started right away. A VPN that is compatible with all major operating systems (including Firestick) and offers multiple simultaneous connections is better. Responsive live chat support is also important to help you resolve any issues streaming IPTV.
  • Obfuscation. Pick a VPN that disguises your encrypted connection as regular HTTPS traffic to watch IPTV content without issues. This functionality is helpful in streaming on restrictive networks, like work and educational institutions.
  • Reliable customer support. If you encounter streaming issues, responsive 24/7 live chat, email, or social media support should be available for instant assistance.
  • Trusted money-back guarantee. This lets you confirm if the VPN meets your streaming needs without any financial risk. Look for a VPN with at least a 30-day refund period.

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

  1. Download a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN for its fast servers to watch content on IPTV platforms without interruption. Plus, you can confidently try ExpressVPN since it's backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.
  2. Connect to a server. Choosing a server closest to you will provide the best speed for smooth streaming.
  3. Start streaming. You can now securely watch IPTV content in 4K on platforms like YouTube TV or Pluto TV.

Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

VPN Not Working With IPTV? Try this:

There are many things you can try if you’re struggling to get your VPN to work with your IPTV service. If you’re having trouble with any of the VPNs on this list, try these fixes:

  • Switch servers. Streaming services (including IPTV platforms) often blocklist IPs suspected to be from VPNs. Changing servers to refresh your IP can sometimes resolve this.
  • Restart the VPN. A simple and often effective solution to many VPN issues is to completely close your VPN app or device and then restart it.
  • Update your VPN. VPN providers frequently release updates to maintain optimal user experience. The latest version of the app may resolve any connectivity issues you're currently facing.
  • Clear cookies and use a private window. IPTV platforms can store cookies with outdated location information, leading to issues. Clearing your browser's cookies and cache can fix the problem. Opting for private or incognito windows can also help prevent such data accumulation.
  • Explore alternative access points. If you encounter issues with a specific access method, such as a streaming app, try accessing the service through a web browser or vice versa.
  • Optimize VPN configurations. At times, simple adjustments, such as switching protocols or changing encryption levels, can rectify connectivity issues.
  • Disable your device’s GPS tracking. Conflicts between your device's GPS and the VPN's IP address can cause disruptions. Turning off GPS features on your device can help resolve this.
  • Enable camouflage mode. Some IPTV platforms block VPN-associated IPs to limit viewership to authorized countries. A VPN equipped with obfuscated, Stealth Mode, or similar features can help you maintain a secure connection to IPTV providers by camouflaging your VPN traffic to mimic regular web traffic.
  • Contact support. If issues persist, contact your VPN's customer support for a possible solution.

Best IPTV Providers for Live TV, Movies, Sports, and More

Popular IPTV providers include YouTube TV, Smarters, King IPTV, and Hulu + Live TV. These providers offer various content types, including live sports, popular movies, news, and on-demand series.

Other top fully-licensed IPTV services include:

  • Pluto TV
  • Xumo
  • DIRECTV STREAM (formerly AT&T TV)
  • Peacock TV
  • Tubi TV
  • Fubo TV
  • DAZN
  • Philo TV
  • Comedy Central
  • Redbox
  • Redbull TV
  • Sling TV

The IPTVs below are also widely popular but operate in a legal grey area. They tend to offer a mix of free-to-air TV content and copyrighted streams for free. We strongly advise you to only use these services to watch IPTV content that’s copyright-free.

  • XtremeHD IPTV
  • Sportz TV
  • King IPTV
  • Yeah IPTV
  • Helix IPTV

Note. Licensing IPTV providers is a continuous process, so some might not be on my list because they still need to be fully approved.

Warning: IPTV Providers To Avoid

Some providers operate without licenses for the content they distribute, which is illegal. These services often pirate channels from official sources and resell them to subscribers at reduced rates or even for free.

They can expose you to malware and data breaches due to weak security measures. The streaming quality of such sites are also lacking, with issues like low resolution and inconsistent content availability.

I recommend you steer clear of these providers:

  • Premium IPTV
  • RocketStreams
  • IPTV Forest
  • Insight TV
  • Mobdro

FAQs on Best VPNs for IPTV

What is IPTV, and how does it work?

IPTV offers live TV or video-on-demand (VOD) content via the internet. This happens through a provider (like YouTubeTV and Xumo), a dedicated app (like IPTV Smarters Pro and TiviMate Companion), or an IPTV set-top box. The content on IPTV is often the same as on cable, satellite, or terrestrial TV, but you watch it via the internet.

Are there legal IPTV services in the US and UK?

Yes, there are several, like BBC iPlayer (UK) and YouTube TV (US). These premium services show only fully licensed content in a format similar to live cable TV. These sites also have almost no risk of copyright issues, malware, and hackers. However, only the best VPNs can reliably access these IPTV services from anywhere.

Many legal IPTV services also come with some of the benefits you expect from terrestrial cable TV, such as flexible channel packages and cloud DVR capabilities. For example, Sky Go and NOW TV in the UK, and Sling TV, FuboTV, and DIRECTV STREAM in the US. Some legal options are even free, either because they use an ad-supported model or because they are a public broadcaster.

Will a VPN slow down your speeds when streaming IPTV?

Yes, but the reduction won’t be noticeable if you’re using a premium VPN. VPNs encrypt your connection and route it via its private server network, which can delay data transfers. However, the best VPNs for IPTV have servers worldwide for streaming IPTV uninterrupted from anywhere.

Standard-quality streams require only about 3Mbps, while higher-quality video requires more bandwidth — full HD (1080p) needs 5Mbps, and ultra-HD (4K) needs 25Mbps. All the VPNs listed here pass this threshold with ease.

Which VPN server location is best when watching IPTV?

The VPN server geographically closest to you will provide the best speeds to stream IPTV without buffering. However, some IPTV services are only available in specific countries or regions. A VPN with a Smart Location or Quick Connect option automatically connects you to the best server for streaming IPTV.

Why should I use a VPN with IPTV?

A high-quality VPN helps stream IPTV safely from anywhere without compromising speed. It achieves this by encrypting your traffic and masking your actual IP address. This makes it difficult for third parties to track or profile your IPTV activity. Simply launch your VPN and connect to a nearby server. They also protect your online privacy when you inadvertently stream from unauthorized IPTV services.

On top of that, A VPN allows you to watch IPTV content on restrictive networks by disguising your VPN traffic as regular HTTPS traffic. This camouflaging makes it harder for IPTV providers with robust anti-VPN technology, as well as workplace or school networks, to block streams of legitimate content legally available to you.

VPNs also help you sidestep unfair speed throttling by your ISP, which can result in longer loading times, lower video quality, and annoying buffering. ISPs might reduce your connection speed or block IPTV if they detect you're engaging in bandwidth-intensive, like streaming, even before you reach your data cap.

Is a VPN better for IPTV than a proxy or SmartDNS service?

Yes, a VPN keeps you safe while streaming by encrypting your internet traffic, which proxies and SmartDNS services don’t. This also prevents ISPs from throttling your internet connection, providing faster speeds. The best VPNs use military-grade encryption to protect your privacy.

SmartDNS can be helpful for streaming IPTV on devices that don't natively support VPNs, like some gaming consoles and smart TVs. But it gives you no additional online protection. In this case, the safest solution is to use one of the top router VPNs instead.

Is using a VPN with IPTV legal?

Yes, using a VPN to stream IPTV safely is legal. However, certain countries, like Russia and Turkey, restrict or ban VPNs. Be sure to read up on local laws before using one. You can easily watch IPTV content safely in 4K in just 3 steps.

However, using a VPN to watch content that’s not licensed for your region goes against streaming platforms’ regulations. It’s also illegal to stream content from an unlicensed IPTV, as it’s copyright infringement. Always understand the requirements of your IPTV provider to avoid getting in trouble.

Can I stream IPTV with a free VPN?

Yes, but it’s not recommended, as you can’t expect consistent high-quality streaming. Most free VPNs restrict server access, reducing your chances of finding a fast server near you. Plus, they don’t have dedicated apps for streaming devices, throttle speed, and cap bandwidth. The best option is to use a low-cost premium VPN with a money-back guarantee if you want to watch IPTV safely in the highest quality possible.

Free VPNs can also put your data at risk as they lack the security features needed to keep you safe online. Some have even been found guilty of compromising user privacy by selling their data for profit. Worse, others install malware and trackers on your device.

Do IPTV boxes have built-in VPNs?

No, IPTV boxes don’t come with built-in VPNs. While boxes like Formuler Z8 and MAG Box allow streaming IPTV content, you must install a VPN separately or configure a router VPN. IPTV boxes provide hardware to stream content from IPTV services, while VPNs offer protection by encrypting traffic. So, you can use a VPN to access IPTV content securely on any supporting device.

Get the Best VPN for IPTV

A secure VPN with many servers across the globe is capable of supporting safe and uninterrupted IPTV streaming from anywhere. All the VPNs on this list let you safely watch IPTV content without causing noticeable delays.

ExpressVPN is my top pick for streaming IPTV content in 4K, thanks to its impressive speeds. The VPN’s extensive network is also well distributed across many locations, including the US, UK, and France making it easy to find an optimal one for watching your favorite content. You can even test ExpressVPN with IPTV risk-free because it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

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

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: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

Rank
Provider
Our Score
Discount
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1
medal
9.9 /10
9.9 Our Score
Save 48%!
2
9.7 /10
9.7 Our Score
Save 83%!
3
9.5 /10
9.5 Our Score
Save 82%!
4
9.6 /10
9.6 Our Score
Save 74%!
5
9.3 /10
9.3 Our Score
Save 87%!
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vpnMentor was established in 2014 to review VPN services and cover 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 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

Hendrik is a writer at vpnMentor, specializing in VPN comparisons and user guides. With 5+ years of experience as a tech and cybersecurity writer, plus a background in corporate IT, he brings a variety of perspectives to test VPN services and analyze how they address the needs of different users.

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