How to Watch CNN Without Cable — Stream Live TV in 2024

You can conveniently watch CNN on your laptop or smartphone without a cable or satellite TV subscription. Cable TV can be expensive, but luckily, there are more affordable streaming service options like Max and Sling TV's Blue package, both offering CNN.

However, these streaming platforms come with their own set of issues, like compromising your privacy. They often track your viewing habits and sell that information to advertisers, resulting in a deluge of unwanted ads. Besides, most of these platforms aren’t available outside the US due to licensing restrictions.

Using a VPN prevents online tracking, allowing you to watch the latest news without privacy concerns. While, theoretically, a VPN could let you access streaming services that feature CNN from outside the US, doing so would most likely violate the streaming platform's terms of service and may even be seen as copyright infringement.

If you just want to stay secure while watching CNN online, my top recommendation is ExpressVPN. It offers military-grade encryption, excellent speeds, and user-friendly apps for a smooth streaming experience. The best part is you can try ExpressVPN risk-free as it’s backed by a trustworthy 30-day money-back guarantee. Getting a refund is easy if the VPN isn’t your cup of tea. 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.

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Best VPNs to Securely Watch CNN Without Cable in 2024

1. ExpressVPN — Excellent Speeds to Watch CNN Live Without Buffering

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Tested December 2024

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

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www.expressvpn.com

ExpressVPN offers excellent speeds for watching CNN live without buffering. While in the US, I connected to a nearby New Jersey server, and my download speed decreased by only 3%. This is truly impressive, especially considering that many VPNs can cause your connection speed to drop by over 50%. With ExpressVPN, you can say goodbye to the frustration of endless buffering circles.

While in the US, I connected to a US server and watched CNN Max without interruptions

You also get an extensive network with ample US servers, so you won’t encounter server congestion while watching Sling TV or YouTube TV from the US. While testing ExpressVPN from New York, I connected to a US server in less than 5 seconds without experiencing any unexpected disconnections.

The apps are user-friendly and compatible with a wide range of devices and operating systems. Whether you're using Android, iOS, Windows, or Mac, setting up ExpressVPN is a breeze. Browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge are also available, making it even more convenient to watch CNN live on your preferred device.

One downside is the higher pricing. Luckily, ExpressVPN frequently offers discounts and special deals. For example, when I subscribed to the 12-month plan, I got 61% off and an extra 3 months for free, which brought down the total cost to only $4.99/month. Better yet, you can try it risk-free since ExpressVPN is backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Useful Features

• Works on restrictive networks. ExpressVPN utilizes advanced obfuscation technology to disguise your VPN connection as regular internet traffic whenever it detects network restrictions. As a result, you can securely stream CNN live, even from work or school, where VPN usage might be blocked.
• Unlimited bandwidth. Since there are no data caps, you can safely stream the CNN news 24/7 without limits.
• Split tunneling. ExpressVPN allows you to set specific apps to ignore the VPN connection. This can be useful if you have apps where low ping is important, such as online mobile games (VPNs increase your latency).

2. CyberGhost — Streaming-Optimized Servers to Watch CNN Live Interruption-Free

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

CyberGhost has dedicated servers for watching CNN in the US on platforms like Max, Hulu, Sling, and YouTube TV. They offer reliable connections and fast speeds. While in the US, I was able to stream CNN Max for hours without any interruptions or disconnections.

CyberGhost makes it easy to find the best server for your needs

While testing CyberGhost’s US servers from New York, I got impressive speeds that let me watch CNN live without buffering. The service doesn't impose any bandwidth limits, so you're free to stream the latest news to your heart's content.

CyberGhost's apps feature an intuitive interface, ideal for VPN newcomers. Its streaming-optimized servers are clearly marked, and the setup process is fast and easy. I was able to quickly install it on my Android tablet and began streaming CNN live within minutes.

One drawback is the pricey monthly subscriptions with a shorter refund period (only 14 days). However, long-term plans start at just $2.19/month. They also come with a money-back guarantee extended to 45 days, giving you plenty of time to try the service for free. I chose the 2-year package, as it was the most wallet-friendly option.

Useful Features

• Smart rules. This feature enables you to automate the VPN in different ways. I set CyberGhost to automatically connect to a US server whenever I opened my browser to stream CNN live on Sling TV, saving me some time.
• Secure streaming connections. With robust security features like AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and a no-logs policy, you can stream CNN without worrying about the safety of your personal data, even on unsecured public WiFi networks.

3. Private Internet Access — Extensive Network With Ample US Servers to Watch CNN Without Slowdowns

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try Private Internet Access >

www.privateinternetaccess.com

PIA comes with a massive server network to avoid server congestion when streaming CNN from the US. Due to the abundant server options, even when a single server gets jammed with too many users, you’ll immediately find another working alternative. Like CyberGhost, PIA offers US servers that are optimized for streaming.

Wherever you are in the US, you’ll be able to find a server in your state

PIA provides unlimited simultaneous connections. This lets your entire household safely watch CNN and other channels on their preferred devices at the same time. Even when I connected multiple devices simultaneously, there was no noticeable degradation in connection quality or speed.

You get various customization options, including adjustable encryption levels and security protocols, which you can change to maximize streaming speeds for watching CNN. While these customization options might seem complex for VPN beginners, the default settings are preconfigured to provide the best speeds and robust security without manual adjustments.

It’s possible to get PIA’s long-term plan for just $2.19/month. The 3-year subscription offers great savings, and with the 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try PIA for free.

Useful Features

• Dedicated ad blocker. PIA's MACE is a dedicated ad-blocker that provides a more enjoyable CNN streaming experience by eliminating annoying ads and trackers. It also offers protection against harmful links.
• Automatic WiFi protection. PIA can be set up to automatically initiate a VPN connection whenever it detects an unprotected WiFi network. This feature secures your online activity, especially when you're streaming CNN on public WiFi networks.

Where Can I Watch CNN Online Without Cable?

There are quite a few streaming platforms that host CNN live broadcasts, but they’re often geo-blocked outside the US due to licensing restrictions. This means you won’t be able to watch CNN on streaming services like Sling TV or Hulu+ Live TV when abroad.

Similar errors appear if you try to access Max, Hulu, or YouTube TV from abroad

For example, you’ll most likely see this message when trying to access your Sling TV account outside the US:

To help you find the best platforms to watch CNN without cable, here's a list of streaming services, available channels, and information regarding free trials. The prices and availability of these services can vary based on your location, and they occasionally offer promotional deals. Always check the latest pricing and package details on their official websites or through a trusted retailer, as they might change.

CNN is also available on Pluto Live TV and Haystack News, but not in its traditional live format. Instead, these platforms provide curated content from CNN. This includes segments and features from various CNN shows, but it’s not a live stream of the CNN cable channel. It's a great option if you're interested in CNN content without needing it to be live or if you're looking for a free streaming option.

Note: Theoretically, you could use a VPN to obtain a US IP address while you are in another location. However, this may violate streaming platforms’ terms and conditions and could potentially be viewed as copyright infringement.

FAQs on Watching CNN Online With a VPN

Is it legal to use a VPN to watch CNN?

Yes, it's legal to use a VPN to safely watch CNN live streams. Most countries (besides a few that restrict VPNs like China and Russia) don’t have issues with securing streaming activity with a quality VPN.

However, please keep in mind that using a VPN to watch geo-restricted content from outside licensed regions not only breaks the terms and conditions of streaming providers but could violate copyright law.

Why can’t I watch CNN streams with a VPN?

Watching CNN online with a VPN can be challenging due to your VPN provider or device settings. To resolve these issues, make sure you use a premium VPN, update your VPN, switch local servers, change browsers, clear cookies, and make sure that IP leak protection is enabled on your VPN. You can also contact customer support via 24/7 live chat to find answers to this issue.

How can I watch CNN from outside the US?

Many countries have access to CNN International, a version of CNN specifically for viewers outside the US. Check with your local cable or satellite TV provider to see if it's included in their package. Haystack News offers some news clips on its website that can be accessed from many countries. This won't be the same as live TV, but it's a way to stay updated with CNN content. Remember to secure your streaming sessions with a quality VPN.

While VPNs could allow you to get a US IP address when you’re elsewhere, this breaks the terms and conditions of streaming platforms everywhere and could even be seen as copyright infringement.

What can I watch on CNN?

CNN (Cable News Network) offers a wide range of shows. You can watch live news broadcasts, breaking news coverage, and various news shows featuring in-depth analysis and commentary. To avoid intentional ISP throttling while streaming CNN news 24/7, use a reliable VPN.

This network also creates original series and documentaries covering a wide range of subjects, including politics, business, health, entertainment, and technology. Beyond its primary channel, CNN runs various specialized networks, such as CNN International, CNN en Español, and the CNN Airport Network.

Is CNN on Amazon Prime?

CNN isn’t directly available as a standalone channel on Amazon Prime. However, you can watch CNN through Amazon US via services like Max, Sling TV, or Hulu+ Live TV, available for additional subscription fees.

Can I watch CNN on Roku, Fire Stick, Apple TV, and Chromecast?

Yes, you can stream CNN on these devices through various apps and services. CNN has a dedicated app called CNNgo, which can be used to stream live CNN broadcasts and on-demand shows, but it requires a cable TV subscription. For secure connections, use a VPN compatible with Roku, Fire Stick, Apple TV, and Chromecast.

Plus, you can watch CNN through streaming services like Max, Hulu+ Live TV, Sling TV, or YouTube TV on many devices, such as Samsung, Sony, LG, and TCL Smart TVs. Just ensure that the service you choose includes CNN in its package and is compatible with your device.

How can I watch CNN for free?

You can only watch some limited free content on CNN’s official website and CNNgo app. Plus, you can watch CNN Replay for free on Pluto TV and Haystack News. However, to access the entire library, you need a paid cable package or subscribe to a streaming service like Max, Sling TV, or DirecTV. A few platforms give free trial periods to try the service before paying.

Securely Watch CNN Without Cable in Minutes

If you wish to watch CNN live news without worrying about streaming sites tracking your online activity, a top-notch VPN is essential. All VPNs on my list offer robust security features and fast speeds for buffer-free streaming.

My top choice for watching CNN online is ExpressVPN. It’s the most reliable VPN I tested, with military-grade encryption, excellent speeds, and user-friendly apps. Best of all, you can try ExpressVPN risk-free as it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you're not entirely satisfied, getting a refund is hassle-free.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs for safely watching CNN without cable…

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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