5 Best VPNs for Hungary in 2024 for Streaming & Safety
Hungarian ISPs are legally obligated to disclose user data upon request from intelligence authorities. So, not only does your ISP store your browsing history and identifying data, but government agencies can obtain this without a warrant. To protect your privacy in Hungary, you’ll need a robust VPN with a no-logs policy and strong encryption.
My team and I tested more than 80 VPNs to find the best tools to protect you against third parties, hackers, and snoops in Hungary. My top VPNs come with comprehensive solutions to secure your data without slowing down your connection. Plus, they offer Hungarian IP addresses, so you can access local websites and banking services when traveling overseas.
ExpressVPN is my top recommendation for Hungary as it provides military-grade encryption and RAM-only servers for data protection. Plus, it seamlessly works with local and international sites in Hungary. Try ExpressVPN in Hungary for yourself — you can get a refund within 30 days if it’s not right for you. 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.
Short on Time? Here Are the Best VPNs for Hungary in 2024
- Editor's ChoiceExpressVPN
Hungary's fastest VPN with Lightway protocol and military-grade encryption.70% of our readers choose ExpressVPN - CyberGhost
Stream smoothly in Hungary with optimized servers and user-friendly app. - Private Internet Access
Global server network for worldwide content, but some servers may be unreliable. - NordVPN
Enhanced secure browsing in Hungary with an intuitive app, but some slower servers. - Surfshark
Secure multiple devices in Hungary simultaneously, but based in 9 Eyes Alliance.
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 Hungary — Full Analysis (Updated 2024)
1. ExpressVPN — Consistently Fast Speeds for Any Online Activity in Hungary
Tested November 2024 Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Best Feature | Consistently fast speeds on short- and long-distance servers |
Server Network | 3,000 RAM servers in 105 countries, including Hungary |
Security & Privacy | Military-grade 256-bit encryption, automatic kill switch, private DNS servers, split tunneling |
Works With | Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Max, Amazon Prime Video, ESPN+, Paramount+, Apple TV, TV2, RTL Klub, and more |
ExpressVPN is the fastest VPN that I tested, thanks to its Lightway protocol, which is one of the main reasons it’s my top recommendation for Hungary. During my tests, my base speeds only dropped by 8% on a local server. Every server I tried gave me a smooth UHD streaming experience while watching TV2 from Hungary.
All ExpressVPN servers are RAM-only with its TrustedServer technology, which means your online data in Hungary is wiped after each reboot. Even though it has a verified no-logs policy, this TrustedServer technology is an extra security net against any data breaches. Plus, this VPN is based in the British Virgin Islands, so it doesn’t have to share what little information it may have with other governments.
I was also really happy that ExpressVPN passed every IP, DNS, and WebRTC leak test I tried. It even protected me against IPv6 leaks, which some VPNs still struggle with, so you don’t have to worry about your identifiable information leaking in Hungary. Its kill switch worked like a charm, too. While I was testing, my VPN connection dropped for a few seconds while switching servers, and it blocked my Windows PC from using the internet until my VPN reconnected.
The only small con is that this VPN is a bit more expensive than the others on this list. However, it has a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try ExpressVPN in Hungary risk-free. If you’re not satisfied, you can claim a full refund via the 24/7 live chat. In my case, I tested the VPN for four weeks, canceled my subscription, and received a refund within 3 working days.
Useful Features
- Smart location. This feature automatically connects you to the closest and fastest server based on your location. That way, you have the fastest speeds possible while using the VPN in Hungary.
- Perfect Forward Secrecy. With this feature, your encryption key changes with every login session to protect your data. So, if someone were to discover the key, they would be unable to decrypt any of your previous VPN sessions in Hungary because a unique key is used for each session.
- Threat Manager. ISPs aren’t the only snoops in Hungary and worldwide — many advertisers use trackers to serve targeted ads. ExpressVPN’s Threat Manager blocks trackers so you can browse the web with better privacy, security, and performance.
- Choice of protocols. Aside from its proprietary Lightway protocol, which is based on WireGuard, ExpressVPN also offers the popular OpenVPN and IKEv2 protocols. OpenVPN is the industry standard for security, while IKEv2 is great for mobile devices that switch between mobile data and WiFi regularly.
2. CyberGhost — Servers Optimized for Smooth Torrenting or Gaming in Hungary
Best Feature | Optimized servers for various online activities |
Server Network | 11,690 servers in 100 countries, including 24 in Hungary |
Privacy & Security | Robust no-logs policy, IP/DNS leak protection, automatic kill switch |
Works With | Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Max, NowTV, BBC iPlayer, Paramount+, Disney +, TV2, RTL Klub, and more |
CyberGhost’s optimized servers let you stream, torrent, and play online games in Hungary. Plus, there are 24 servers in the country, while the global network spans 11,690 servers in 100 countries overall. I tested multiple CyberGhost servers and even the regular ones worked with local channels like Duna or RTL Klub when I was in Budapest. I smoothly watched in HD (which requires only 5Mbps) because my speeds were well above that.
It’s really easy to find these optimized servers, too. They’re all grouped in searchable tabs on the app menu. To find the regular servers, just go to the All servers tab and write out the country in the search bar.
Snoops won’t be able to see what you’re doing online, either. CyberGhost offers strong IPv6 and DNS leak protection, plus robust protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN. Additionally, it operates from Romania (outside the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance), which means it’s under no obligation to hand over user data to third parties.
The only drawback is that CyberGhost’s short-term subscription was a bit pricey and comes with a shorter money-back guarantee. But its long-term plan is more cost-effective and backed by a 45-day money-back guarantee. So, you can try CyberGhost without any financial risk.
Useful Features
- NoSpy servers. These servers are fully owned and controlled by CyberGhost, which reduces the risk of third-party interference. This further reduces the risks of snoops and hackers accessing your data in Hungary.
- Split tunneling. This allows you to route only select apps through the VPN connection. So, you can use CyberGhost for secure online banking while browsing other sites using a regular unencrypted connection.
- WiFi protection. You can configure CyberGhost to launch automatically when connecting to public WiFi. This helps to keep you safe online when you’re out and about in Hungary or if you’re away from home and using unfamiliar networks.
- App rules. This feature is a part of the VPN's Smart rules menu. It tells CyberGhost to launch and connect automatically when you open certain apps. I used this with my torrenting client to make sure I was always protected when downloading files.
3. Private Internet Access — Comprehensive Server Network to Change Your IP in Hungary
Best Feature | Large global network with over 29,650 servers in 91 countries, including Hungary |
Server Network | RAM servers that don’t store data; plus, it’s the only VPN that has servers in all US states |
Privacy & Security | Audited no-logs policy, 2 kill switches, AES 256- and 128-bit encryption, IP/DNS leak protection |
Works With | Netflix, Disney+, Max, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Paramount+, ESPN/ESPN+, Hotstar India, TV2, RTL Klub, and more |
Private Internet Access (PIA) stands out with the largest server list among the VPNs I tested, so you have a larger pool of IPs that you can use for international browsing while in Hungary. This means that you’re less likely to experience slow speeds due to overcrowding because you have thousands of servers to choose from. Also, if one server doesn’t work for your needs, you have many others to rely on.
I found PIA impressive with its level of security customization. I could choose between the robust OpenVPN and the speedy WireGuard protocols, and even between different levels of encryption on OpenVPN connections. WireGuard’s speed is ideal for high-bandwidth activities, but OpenVPN’s security makes it better for securing sensitive banking data.
Unfortunately, not all of PIA’s servers are reliable for streaming if you’re watching something other than Netflix. I sometimes had to hunt around for a server that worked with TV2 and Klub. However, since it has so many, I eventually found servers that worked.
You can try PIA with zero risk. If you’re unsatisfied with the service, you can get a refund within 30 days — just message the 24/7 live chat.
Useful Features
- Good speeds. My speeds dropped by 18% while testing a US server (a slightly higher drop than ExpressVPN or CyberGhost). However, taking into account that this was a long-distance server, the drop is still acceptable, so you shouldn’t have to worry about your internet slowing down while using it in Hungary.
- MACE. This feature blocks online ads at the DNS level, eliminating pop-ups and banners to improve your browsing experience in Hungary. This also prevents access to malicious websites, which is really useful if you’re visiting unfamiliar websites in a different language.
- Unlimited simultaneous connections. PIA allows you to use it on as many devices as you want with one subscription. This makes it an affordable option for larger households in Hungary or to keep your whole family’s devices protected when you’re traveling.
- Identity Guard. This feature lets you check if your email address has been exposed to a data breach. With regular searches and customizable email alerts, you'll be promptly notified if your email address is ever compromised.
4. NordVPN — Beginner-Friendly App to Secure Your Data in Hungary
Best Feature | Intuitive apps for all major operating systems |
Server Network | 6,666 servers in 111 countries, including Hungary |
Privacy & Security | RAM-only servers, no-logs policy, 256-bit encryption, NordLynx protocol, Threat Protection ads and trackers blocker |
Works With | Netflix, Disney+, Max, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Paramount+, ESPN/ESPN+, Hotstar India, TV2, RTL Klub, and more |
NordVPN’s app is really easy to use, making it an ideal choice for VPN beginners in Hungary. The app includes a world map displaying all of its server locations, so if your geography is better than mine, you can find your desired server location in seconds. Otherwise, you can simply use the search bar and type the country. The server list is right on the main screen, so you can’t miss it. There you’ll also find the specialty servers that NordVPN offers.
I tested its proprietary NordLynx protocol when streaming in Hungary and it didn’t disappoint. I only lost around 10% of my base speed on the local servers, so I could watch UHD movies and shows without buffering. NordLynx is based on WireGuard, which is one of the fastest VPN protocols around (after ExpressVPN’s Lightway).
NordVPN’s long-distance connections dropped my speeds by over 20%, which is still acceptable. The only issue was that I wasn't always able to connect. On multiple occasions, it took over a minute to do so. However, after the connection was established, there weren't any interruptions. You can also just choose another server in the same location if one takes longer to connect.
NordVPN offers a reliable 30-day money-back guarantee on all of its 3 plans. I got a full refund in just three business days while I was testing it.
Useful Features
- Dark Web Monitor. This feature alerts you if your personal information appears on the dark web. With cybercrime on the rise in Hungary (and the rest of the world), this can help you stay safe in case of a data breach.
- Meshnet. NordVPN lets you connect to your devices remotely through a secure virtual LAN. It’s ideal for sharing vacation photos with family back home or collaborating with colleagues when you’re away from your office in Hungary.
- Optimized servers. NordVPN offers obfuscated servers to help you access the internet on restricted networks in Hungary. You can also use Onion Over VPN or Double VPN servers for extra security and P2P servers for torrenting.
5. Surfshark — Unlimited Connections to Secure All Your Household Devices Simultaneously in Hungary
Best Feature | Connect all of your devices under a single subscription |
Server Network | 3,200 servers in 100 countries, including Hungary |
Privacy & Security | MultiHop, IP/DNS leak protection, CleanWeb malware/ad blocker |
Works With | Netflix, Disney+, Max, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Paramount+, ESPN/ESPN+, Duna, TV2, RTL Klub, and more |
Surfshark’s unlimited simultaneous device connections mean this VPN is of great value for larger households or families in Hungary. After all, the more devices you add, the less you’re paying per device to secure your privacy.
While in Budapest, I tested Surfshark on 3 devices simultaneously by streaming Netflix Hungary on my Android phone, iPhone, and on a Windows laptop using Chrome. Even when I added more devices, my speeds on local servers never dropped below 12%.
Despite being located in the Netherlands, a member of the 9 Eyes Alliance, Surfshark's only drawback was this association. Nevertheless, it boasts an audited no-logs policy and employs RAM-only servers, ensuring your data remains secure without any concerns of it being stored or shared with third parties.
Additionally, Surfshark offers a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re unsatisfied with the VPN, getting your money back through the 24/7 live chat is simple.
Useful Features
- Bypasser. This split tunneling feature lets you choose which apps to bypass the VPN or connect through. It’s a great way to optimize your connection in Hungary by freeing up bandwidth.
- Camouflage mode. This feature hides the fact that you’re using a VPN by obfuscating your traffic, meaning ISPs in Hungary will have a hard time detecting that you’re using Surfshark.
- NoBorders. Whenever you’re connected on a restrictive or unstable network, Surfshark has the NoBorders feature to suggest you specific servers to use under those conditions.
Quick Guide: How to Set Up a VPN for Hungary in 3 Easy Steps
- Download a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN because it’s the fastest VPN I tested and has robust security features. Plus, it reliably gave me access to Hungarian and global sites.
- Connect to a server. If you need faster speeds in Hungary, connect to a nearby Hungarian or European server. But if you need a specific IP address, connect to the country you want to get a new IP from.
- Start browsing. You can now browse the internet safely in and outside Hungary.
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.
Tips on Choosing the Best VPN for Hungary
When selecting the best VPN for Hungary, I used these criteria to rank my top picks. Use this checklist to evaluate your options and ensure you choose the best VPN for your needs in Hungary.
- Local and Global server network. I’ve only recommended VPNs with a large server network, so you can access your Hungarian and international services from any location.
- Fast speeds. You’ll need minimal base speed drops to stream online video content in HD and UHD, play online games without lag, and torrent without interruptions in Hungary. All of my recommended VPNs offer great speeds on local servers.
- Global server network. I’ve only recommended VPNs with a large server network so you can access your international accounts while in Hungary and watch your home content while you’re abroad.
- Strong security and privacy. Because Hungarian ISPs collect your data and give it away on request, I’ve made sure that every VPN on this list offers strong leak protection and encryption to protect your online privacy. I’ve also looked for kill switches and secure VPN protocols to keep your activity away from prying eyes.
- Excellent customer support. You might occasionally encounter issues where you’ll be unable to access your desired content in Hungary or stumble into difficulties connecting to a specific server. So, I’ve only recommended VPNs with responsive customer support, whether via email, live chat, or contact form.
- Reliable money-back guarantee. Every VPN on my list offers a reliable money-back guarantee so that you can try them risk-free.
FAQs on Using a VPN for Hungary
Why do I need a VPN for Hungary?
Using a VPN in Hungary is beneficial for various reasons. I primarily recommend using a VPN in Hungary as Hungarian ISPs collect user data, and government agencies can request access to this without needing a warrant. VPNs encrypt your data, so your ISP can’t log your online activity. This is vital for protecting your online privacy.
A VPN can also help you access global sites and services from wherever you are in the world. This allows you to travel without missing out on news back at home.
Is using a VPN legal in Hungary?
Yes, it is legal to use a VPN in Hungary. So you can just connect to a server in your preferred country and use the internet as you usually would.
Please note that while VPNs are legal in Hungary, you should use them responsibly and abide by the laws and regulations of the country you're in.
Can I use a free VPN in Hungary?
Yes, but I don’t recommend them. Free VPN services often have limitations compared to their paid counterparts, and we’ve found that many are unsafe. You’re better off using a premium VPN with a money-back guarantee.
Free VPN limitations usually include slower speeds, data caps, limited server locations, and potentially less robust security measures. Some free VPNs may also track and sell your data to third parties for advertising purposes, compromising your privacy.
How can I check whether my Hungary VPN changed my IP address?
To check whether your Hungary VPN has changed your IP address, you can follow these steps:
- Note down your current IP address. You can do this by searching "What is my IP address" on a search engine and noting the result before connecting to the VPN.
- Connect to your VPN. Select your desired server location, and your IP address should change.
- Compare the IP address displayed. Once connected, recheck your IP address on the website you used earlier. If the IP address has changed and matches the location of the VPN server, then your VPN has successfully changed your IP address.
It's important to note that if your VPN is not working correctly or if there are any leaks, your original IP address may still be visible. If you continually have this issue, I recommend using a VPN that offers robust IP leak protection.
Can I watch Hungarian TV with my Hungary VPN?
Yes, using a VPN with servers in Hungary allows you to safely watch various Hungarian TV channels, such as RTL Klub, MédiaKlikk (M1 and M2), Duna TV, TV2, Cinego, HírTV, and MTVA – M1. All of my recommended VPNs worked with Hungarian TV platforms during my tests from Budapest.
Get the Best VPN for Hungary
In Hungary, where ISP surveillance is an issue, it is crucial to prioritize your online safety. A robust VPN is the best way to maintain your online privacy and protect yourself against snoops and other cyber threats. As an added bonus, a VPN also lets you access worldwide sites.
ExpressVPN is my top VPN recommendation for Hungary. It was the fastest VPN out of all the services I tested, making it great for streaming, torrenting, or gaming. Plus, it’ll help you secure your data with military-grade encryption, RAM-only servers, and a strict no-logs policy. You can try ExpressVPN in Hungary with no risk since it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
To summarize, these are the best VPNs for Hungary…
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.
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