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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.

How to Watch CCTV From Anywhere — Stream Live in 2024

Sheharyar Zaheer Updated on 18th September 2024 Fact-checked by Matthew Amos Cybersecurity Researcher

The CCTV network includes 45+ TV channels, but almost all of them are restricted to China. Although it does have international channels, they feature very small content libraries.

Premium VPNs are capable of securely accessing CCTV from anywhere. They encrypt your connection by rerouting it through private servers so that even your ISP can’t see what you’re doing online. Plus, they prevent deliberate speed throttling, allowing you to stream in better quality.

After testing 30+ VPNs, ExpressVPN is my top recommendation for watching CCTV live online. It has multiple servers in Hong Kong that work with CCTV channels, deliver fast streaming speeds, and is easy to use. Plus, it offers a reliable 30-day money-back guarantee. If it’s not what you are looking for, you can get a full refund during this period. 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.

Watch CCTV in HD >>

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

  1. Download a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN because its fast streaming speeds are ideal for watching CCTV live without buffering. Plus, it has a 30-day refund period.
  2. Connect to a server. Servers closer to your location provide better speeds since your data has to travel less distance.
  3. Start streaming. Go to the CCTV website and start watching your favorite channel live.
Be advised. The VPNs we endorse follow strict no-logging policies. How you choose to use these VPNs is your responsibility since they can’t view your online activities.The vpnMentor team and I do not condone any copyright infringements and encourage you to follow all applicable laws and T&Cs.

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

  • Editor's Choice
    ExpressVPN
    ExpressVPN
    Fastest VPN for streaming CCTV channels live from anywhere in HD, and it's user-friendly.
    70% of our readers choose ExpressVPN
  • CyberGhost VPN
    CyberGhost
    Easy-to-use VPN allows you to safely watch CCTV online with a few clicks.
  • Private Internet Access
    Private Internet Access
    Customize settings for a great CCTV streaming performance on any network.

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.

How to Watch CCTV From Anywhere — The Ultimate Guide

CCTV is one of the largest TV networks, with more than 45 channels. These include 6 international channels under the brand name of CGTN. However, the content on these channels is quite limited compared to the local channels. For example, CCTV-5 exclusively covers sports, while CCTV-6 features movies, and CCTV-2 offers finance and economics programming.

VPNs have the potential to safely access content on all these channels from anywhere. Except for a handful of paid CCTV channels, you can watch all others completely free on the official CCTV website.

1. Download a VPN

Choose a VPN capable of securely accessing CCTV and works on your favorite streaming devices. The best VPNs for China have servers worldwide, including in China or administrative zones like Hong Kong, and they reliably work in and outside the country. I recommend ExpressVPN, as it offers high streaming speeds and makes changing IP addresses on Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and more easy.

Screenshot showing the ExpressVPN website landing pageYou can download ExpressVPN on mobiles from their app store

2. Connect to a Server

Open the VPN app and choose a server. You need a Chinese or Hong Kong IP address to safely watch CCTV live online. Keep in mind that a server closest to your location will give you the best speeds.

Screenshot showing the app interface of ExpressVPN connected to the Hong Kong serverThe arrow next to a country reveals all server locations available

3. Open the CCTV Website

Once the CCTV website is loaded, proceed to the live television section. You don't need to subscribe or register for the free channels. However, if you want to watch a paid CCTV channel (like CCTV 5), you must sign up and log in first.

Screenshot showing the CCTV landing pageYou can also click on "Channel List" to select a particular channel

4. Start Streaming

Choose your favorite CCTV channel and click on it to begin streaming. The stream may take a couple of seconds to load initially, but with ExpressVPN, you’re less likely to face buffering once it starts.

Screenshot showing the live streaming of CCTV-8 on CCTV official websiteYou can also click on "Replay" to watch previous broadcasts

Here's how to watch more Asian dramas, animes, and movies:

  • Securely stream Chinese TV. This guide details ways to safely watch content on various Chinese streaming platforms, including iQiyi, from anywhere.
  • Stream Hong Kong TV live. This article describes how to watch popular Hong Kong platforms, like TVB, with optimized video quality.

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.

Best VPNs to Watch CCTV From Anywhere in 2024

We’ve compiled a comparison table of the best VPNs for safely streaming CCTV from anywhere. These options each offer methods to get a Chinese IP address or one from Hong Kong. They also include reliable security and privacy features, along with fast speeds. Below you can quickly review each of our top picks' most important streaming features.

Lowest Price Server Network Device Connections Device Compatibility Refund Period
🥇ExpressVPN $6.67/month 3,000 servers in 105 countries, including Hong Kong 8 Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, Roku, smart TVs, routers, and more 30 days
🥈CyberGhost $2.19/month 11,690 servers in 100 countries, including Mainland China 7 Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, Roku, smart TVs, routers, and more 45 days
🥉PIA $2.19/month 29,650 servers in 91 countries, including Mainland China Unlimited Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, smart TVs, Linux, Roku, routers, and more 30 days

1. ExpressVPN — Impressive Speeds For Watching CCTV Without Buffering

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 consistently delivered the best speeds for live-streaming CCTV from anywhere — videos loaded nearly instantly. VPNs tend to drop speeds since the data has to travel to your connected server and back. However, during our tests on nearby servers, it only dropped speeds by less than 5%, which was hardly noticeable. We got the best results with its lightweight Lightway protocol.

I found the apps easy to use, and they look almost identical for all popular operating systems. So, you can stream CCTV on any device without adjusting to a new app interface. ExpressVPN also has native Android and Apple TV apps that allow you to securely watch Chinese content on your big screen. If your device isn't VPN-compatible, like Roku, install ExpressVPN on your router using its custom firmware and watch CCTV on any WiFi-connected device.

The only downside is that it's a bit pricey, with the cheapest plan starting at $6.67/month. However, ExpressVPN offers generous discounts and deals throughout the year, making it more affordable. I saved 48% and got 3 extra months free with its long-term tier. You can also try ExpressVPN risk-free for 30 days with its money-back guarantee. Support is available 24/7 via live chat and email if you need assistance.

ExpressVPN Offer October 2024: For a limited time only, you can get an ExpressVPN subscription for up to 48% off! Don't miss out!

2. CyberGhost — Beginner-Friendly Interface to Easily Stream CCTV Online

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.

CyberGhost's user-friendly features are ideal for new VPN users looking to stream CCTV safely from anywhere. Simply expand the app, type "China" into the search bar, click on a server, and tap the large power button. In our tests, we had no problem watching CCTV-1 and adding the server to our favorites list. There are also “Smart Rules”, which let you program the VPN to automatically connect to a server in China when launching the app.

One minor con is that CyberGhost only offers a short refund period on monthly plans, which are also more expensive. However, it does provide an extended 45-money-back guarantee on long-term plans, which are more affordable, starting at just $2.19/month.

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.

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Tailor Settings for Reliable CCTV Streams From Anywhere

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.

PIA allows you to change encryption levels to emphasize speed or security while streaming CCTV. When using the OpenVPN protocol, you can choose between the faster AES 128-bit or robust AES 256-bit. However, the WireGuard protocol was better in terms of speed during our tests. While it wasn’t as fast as ExpressVPN, it only reduced our speed by 12%, even when connecting multiple devices — you can use unlimited devices simultaneously with PIA.

Unfortunately, PIA could not safely access CCTV5. But, it works well for streaming other popular channels like CCTV-13 in high quality. You can test PIA free for 30 days using its money-back guarantee.

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!

Our Methodology for Testing VPNs for CCTV

Before shortlisting the best VPNs for watching CCTV, we considered a multitude of factors. It was key for the international testing team to determine the reliability of the VPNs’ Chinese or Hong Kong servers. We also performed extensive tests on each providers’ speeds for smooth streaming, security features, ease of use, and more.

Check out our methodology page to learn more about our VPN testing procedures. It includes detailed information on how our global team regularly puts the top VPNs through their paces, so you can make an informed decision.

FAQs on Watching CCTV From Anywhere

Does any other platform currently air CCTV content?

Usually not, since CCTV rarely licenses out its content. Thankfully, the right VPNs are capable of safely accessing CCTV channels from anywhere. In addition, depending on your region, there may be some Chinese content on other platforms, e.g., Sling TV in the US. Another place to watch CCTV content would be on CGTN, the network’s international channel.

Can I use a VPN to watch CCTV5 in countries like the US, Australia, or Singapore?

With a VPN it’s possible to watch CCTV5 in HD from anywhere, but it might not always work. CCTV-5 is a paid sports channel that is more difficult to safely access than CCTV’s free channels. The best option is to choose a VPN that’s well-suited for streaming Chinese television with servers in the country or in Hong Kong. That’s the only known method for safely accessing CCTV5 live streams from anywhere.

Does Roku have Chinese channels?

Roku does offer some Chinese channels, but not CCTV. At times, it has included KORTV (Chinese and Korean content), China TV (live channels), and Chinese Zone (Cantonese and Mandarin movies and shows). However, the most reliable method for streaming CCTV from anywhere is a VPN that allows it to safely access it on Roku by installing it on your router.

Can I use a free VPN to watch CCTV?

Probably not, since most free VPNs don't have servers in or near China. Free VPNs also restrict bandwidth, speed, and device connections. A premium VPN can provide a China IP address to safely access CCTV and stream in high quality for long periods.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs for watching CCTV from anywhere…

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%!
Privacy Alert!

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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 48% 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 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

Sheharyar is a passionate tech-writer who believes in the digital freedom and online privacy of all. He regularly tests and analyzes different VPNs to give accurate and up-to-date user-guides and comparisons.

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