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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.

How to Watch Peacock TV Online With a VPN (2024 Guide)

Doris Muthuri Updated on 1st March 2024 Fact-checked by Emma Browne Senior Writer

NBC’s Peacock TV has some fantastic shows like The Office and Downton Abbey. But Peacock TV is only available as a standalone service in the US. With a Sky or NOW TV subscription, you can also watch Peacock from a handful of European countries, like Germany and Italy.

The platform looks at your IP address to determine whether you’re in the US. You could theoretically watch Peacock from anywhere by getting a US IP address with a VPN, but this could violate copyright law, which the team and I would never condone. However, VPNs are still crucial for online safety and can help you avoid ISP throttling while streaming Peacock TV in the US.

Out of all the VPNs I tested, my #1 recommendation for streaming Peacock from the US is ExpressVPN. It has UHD-friendly connection speeds, reliable servers, and an easy-to-use app. It also has a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it out risk-free with Peacock TV.

Watch Peacock TV in HD >>

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

  1. Get a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN because of its reliability with Peacock TV and fast connection speeds.
  2. Select a nearby US server. Connect to a server in or near your current US state to get the fastest streaming speeds.
  3. Start watching Peacock TV. Log in to your Peacock TV account. You can now watch your favorite content without giving your data away to NBC and third-party advertisers.
Important! We at vpnMentor stand against copyright infringement. I only recommended VPNs that use no-logging policies and private servers, so all your online activities will be hidden while you’re connected. It’s your sole responsibility to use VPNs legally and within the bounds of Peacock TV’s terms of use.

Why You Need a VPN to Watch Peacock TV Online

Peacock TV collects a ton of data about your activity on the platform to deliver personalized recommendations and improve its service, as you’d expect. But, on top of this, it also buys and sells data about you from third-party advertisers to collect information about your interests across all of your devices.

You can use a VPN to encrypt your data while watching Peacock TV to protect your privacy. That way, the platform and third-party advertisers won’t get their hands on your personal information. Plus, this means your ISP won’t see that you’re streaming, so they won’t be able to throttle your speeds in response. So, you’ll get better quality for watching Chicago Med.

Other guides often recommend using a VPN to watch Peacock TV in unlicensed locations, and while it is theoretically possible, we don’t advise this. Doing so would violate the platform’s Terms of Use and may be considered copyright infringement. We only recommend using a VPN while you stream from the US to keep your personal information private.

Short on Time? Here Are the Best VPNs for Streaming Peacock TV in 2024

  • Editor's Choice
    ExpressVPN
    ExpressVPN
    The fastest speeds of any VPN I tested to watch Peacock TV in UHD interruption-free.
    70% of our readers choose ExpressVPN
  • CyberGhost VPN
    CyberGhost
    Peacock-optimized streaming servers offer reliable and secure connections to the platform.
  • Private Internet Access
    Private Internet Access
    Servers in every US state reduce latency for watching Peacock live lag-free.

How to Watch Peacock TV With a VPN on Different Devices

Peacock TV is owned by NBC, so it offers a ton of fantastic content in the US. From sitcoms like Brooklyn Nine-Nine to reality shows like Vanderpump Rules, there are plenty of shows and movies for you to enjoy.

A VPN allows you to securely watch Peacock TV in HD on a wide range of devices. This includes Android and iOS smartphones and tablets, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Roku, smart TVs, Windows or Mac computers, Vizio TV, and Xfinity devices.

The specific setup process for each device will vary, but below is a guide that covers all devices that support VPN apps. After the main guide, you’ll see an alternative one for devices that aren’t natively compatible with VPNs.

1. Download a VPN

First of all, you’ll need to get a premium VPN with robust security features to protect your data on Peacock TV. My top choice for streaming in the US is ExpressVPN, as it offers consistently fast speeds alongside advanced security features like IP/DNS leak protection and a kill switch. Plus, it’ll stop your ISP from seeing that you’re streaming, so you’ll be able to watch Peacock TV in UHD lag-free.

Once you’ve set up an account with your chosen VPN, download the app to your device and connect to a nearby US server. The closer the server is to you, the better speeds you’ll get.

A screenshot showing ExpressVPN connected to a US server and the list of its US locations on the Windows appSearch for a nearby state to get the fastest speeds possible

2. Go to Peacock TV

From the US, head over to the Peacock TV website or install the app on your device. On top of apps for Android and iOS, you can also download its app directly on most smart TVs, gaming consoles, cable boxes, and even on Meta VR. Click Get Started to start creating an account.

A screenshot showing the Peacock TV homepage with a selection of contentThe Peacock TV library is the same across all its apps

3. Choose Your Plan

First, you’ll need to choose between a Premium or a Premium Plus plan. Both let you watch the full library of Peacock TV shows and movies, but the Premium Plus plan comes with a few extra perks, like limited ads, downloadable content, and live local NBC channels.

Screenshot of the Peacock TV pricing page showing different plansYou can also get Peacock TV included with Xfinity plans in the US

4. Sign Up for Peacock TV

Finally, create your Peacock TV account with your email and a strong password. You’ll also need to provide your name, date of birth, gender, and ZIP code, which Peacock TV uses to personalize your recommendations and for targeted advertising. This data may also be given to third-party advertisers.

Screenshot of Peacock TV's This is the final step before you can enjoy your favorite shows and movies

5. Start Watching Your Favorite Show Securely

Log into your new account and start browsing through the hundreds of TV shows and movies on Peacock TV. I wanted to catch up on The Traitors, so I just typed it into the search bar to find all available seasons. Once you’ve found what you want to watch, simply click (or tap) on it and hit play.

Screenshot of Peacock TV searching for The TraitorsIf you've still got a free account, some content is locked

Alternative Option: Install a VPN on Your Router

Not every VPN offers native apps for devices like some smart TVs and Amazon Fire TV Stick, and others like Roku, Xbox, and PlayStation don’t support VPN apps. In these cases, you’ll need to set up a VPN connection manually by configuring it on your router. We’ve got a full guide on how to set up a VPN on your router, but here’s a quick rundown:

  1. Get a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN for routers, as it offers custom firmware that’s far easier to install and a rare router app to easily change locations. Go into your installation options and click Manual Configuration, then follow the instructions.
  2. Download the router firmware. You can log into your router by typing your router’s IP address into your browser. Then, you can download your router’s firmware from the manufacturer’s website.
  3. Connect your router to the internet. After that, you can install ExpressVPN’s router firmware.
  4. Select a nearby US server from your location in the US. Open ExpressVPN’s router app and connect to a US server close to your state to privately watch Peacock TV uninterrupted.
  5. Connect your device to the router network. Now, open up Peacock TV on your device and start watching.
Pro Tip. If you don’t feel confident installing the VPN on your router manually since it’s risky and tricky, ExpressVPN offers a pre-configured VPN router, Aircove, as a simple plug-and-play solution.

Best VPNs to Securely Watch Peacock TV Live Online

The best VPNs for Peacock TV let you watch the platform in UHD lag-free while keeping your data safe from NBC and third parties. Below, you can see a quick comparison of my top recommended VPNs. Each one offers reliable connections in Peacock TV’s licensed locations, fast speeds, and apps for the most popular streaming devices.

Lowest Price Speed on Local Servers Server Network Money-Back Guarantee
🥇ExpressVPN $6.67/month 120 Mbps
(5% drop)
3,000+ servers in 105 countries, including 24 US locations 30 days
🥈CyberGhost $2.19/month 113 Mbps
(7% drop)
11,690 servers in 100 countries, including 11 US locations 45 days
🥉Private Internet Access $2.19/month 111 Mbps
(9% drop)
29,650 servers in 91 countries, including 53 US locations 30 days

1. ExpressVPN — Fastest VPN for Peacock TV for Lag-Free UHD Streaming

ExpressVPN is the fastest VPN we tested with Peacock TV, thanks to its proprietary Lightway protocol. While in the US, I tested several US servers, and my speeds remained consistently high — I had an unnoticeable 5% speed drop. This let me stream Couple to Throuple with no interruptions.

It doesn’t skimp on security either — it passed every data leak test we threw its way during our tests. So, you can be sure that your privacy is protected while you’re catching up on the latest TV. You can try ExpressVPN with Peacock TV risk-free as it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

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 — Peacock-Optimized Streaming Servers for Reliable Connections

CyberGhost provides streaming servers optimized for Peacock in the US. I used this server from my hotel room in New York and only had a 7% speed drop — more than enough to stream with no lag. While its short-term plan is on the expensive side, the long-term plans offer significant discounts and come with an extended 45-day money-back guarantee.

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) — Servers in Every US State for Smooth Peacock Streaming

PIA has servers in all US states, so you'll find a fast, local connection no matter where you are in the country. While I had a slightly higher speed drop of 9% from New York and 14% when I connected to California, this was still more than enough to watch NBC live with no buffering.

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!

Our Methodology For Testing VPNs for Streaming Peacock TV

We used a strict list of criteria when testing VPNs for Peacock TV. First, the essentials — we make sure the VPN works reliably with Peacock TV and NOW TV. Then, we test its speeds throughout the day, including at peak times, to make sure you can stream whenever you like without lag. Finally, we make sure they offer robust security features like military-grade encryption, data leak protection, and kill switches so you can protect your privacy while you stream.

If you want to know more about our VPN testing process, take a look 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.

How to Watch Peacock TV Outside the US

Peacock TV is available outside the US exclusively on NOW TV in the UK, Ireland, Germany, Austria, and Italy. At the time of writing, NOW TV is the only other streaming platform that’s licensed to show Peacock TV content. However, it doesn’t offer any live NBC channels. Instead, you’ll be able to watch live Sky TV channels, which occasionally show Peacock TV content.

Here’s how you can watch Peacock TV outside the US in one of the above licensed NOW TV locations:

  1. Go to NOW TV. If you’re in the UK, Ireland, Germany, Austria, or Italy, go to the NOW TV website. You can also download the NOW TV app to your PC (Windows and macOS), smartphone (iOS and Android), smart TV, Fire TV Stick, Roku, or certain TV boxes.
  2. Click Join NOW. You’ll need to select a subscription plan to proceed. For Peacock TV, pick the Entertainment plan and click Choose your membership.
  3. Select a payment term. Choose between a monthly plan or a 6-month contract, and click Select. Longer-term contracts are typically cheaper.
  4. Review your order. You’ll see a summary of your plan on this checkout page. Depending on the plan and payment term you choose, you may get a 7-day free trial of another membership plan (like Cinema) and Boost, which lets you watch on more devices and removes ads. Click Continue to checkout.
  5. Enter your personal information. To sign up for NOW TV, you’ll need to provide your name, email, and address. Finally, enter your payment information and click Checkout to complete the signup process.
  6. Log into your NOW TV account. Then, search for your favorite Peacock TV show. Unfortunately, you can’t search for Peacock TV directly, so you’ll need to enter the name of the show in the search bar.
  7. Start streaming. Once you’ve found the show you want to watch, click on it and press play to start watching Peacock TV content.

How to Watch Peacock TV Away From Home

If you’re in the US and you’re visiting a different part of the country, you can still watch Peacock TV on the go. Your account isn’t locked to a particular state, and you can stream on up to 3 devices at once on one Peacock TV login. This means you can stream in 2 different locations without interrupting friends or family back home.

In addition, Peacock Premium Plus subscribers can download content to watch offline. Here’s how:

  1. Log into the Peacock TV app. You can only download content onto your smartphone or tablet.
  2. Find your show. Click on it, then click Download. If you don’t see this button, then it’s because Peacock doesn’t allow that show to be downloaded, or your account has hit its download limit of 25 pieces of content.
  3. Start watching on the go. When the download has completed, you’re ready to start watching whenever you like. Just remember that downloaded shows disappear 48 hours after you’ve hit play or 30 days after the download.

Want to watch Peacock TV without handing your data to NBC and other advertisers? Check out our in-depth guides on how to use a VPN with the most popular streaming devices below.

FAQs on Watching Peacock TV Online With a VPN

Is Peacock free to watch?

No — Peacock TV discontinued its free plan. The closest you’ll get to watching Peacock TV for free is if you’re an Xfinity subscriber, as it’ll come included with your plan. Otherwise, you’ll need to sign up for a Peacock TV Premium or Premium Plus plan.

Can I watch Peacock TV without commercials or cable?

You don’t need a cable plan to watch Peacock TV, as it’s a standalone service. However, you can’t watch Peacock TV without ads completely. While the Premium Plus plan states it gets rid of ads, it notes that some programming (like live sports) will still show commercials.

In addition, NOW TV (which offers some Peacock TV content outside the US) also runs ads on its standard subscription plans. If you’re in one of NOW TV’s licensed locations, you can watch Peacock TV without ads if you pay for its Boost package on top of your subscription.

Is it possible to watch Peacock TV live with a VPN?

Yes, it is. With a quality premium VPN, you can securely watch all of Peacock TV’s content from the US — including movies, on-demand TV shows, and live TV. Just make sure you’ve picked the right Peacock TV plan for the live TV you want, as the Premium plan doesn’t include local NBC channels.

Can I watch Peacock TV on Amazon Prime Video?

No, Peacock TV isn’t available through Prime Video. You’ll have to sign up for Peacock TV as a standalone service. You can, however, get the Peacock TV app on your Amazon TV and Fire Stick.

Why is my VPN not working for Peacock streaming?

You might need a more reliable VPN to stream Peacock TV uninterrupted. Peacock uses robust VPN-blocking technologies that block all IPs it suspects are from a VPN, even when you’re watching from within the US. So, the first step is to make sure you’re using a premium VPN that’s tried and tested to work reliably with Peacock TV.

Here are a few other troubleshooting tricks you can try to get back to streaming:

  • Clear your browser’s cache and cookies, and then reload Peacock TV.
  • Use an Incognito window.
  • Try a different US server.

If none of these steps work, you’ll need to contact your VPN’s customer support.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs for watching Peacock TV live online

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%!
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

Doris is a tech writer and a cybersecurity researcher for vpnMentor. She is enthusiastic about educating people about their rights to online freedom and provides actionable ways to protect their data.