The best Apple TV VPNs of 2025: Expert tested and reviewed

1 month ago 2

When you sign up for Apple TV, setting up a virtual private network (VPN) to use with the streaming service might not be your first thought. Why would you? The reason is that an Apple TV VPN can improve your online privacy and disguise your internet protocol (IP) address, allowing you to access content libraries outside your home region.

Now that many VPN providers have developed native Apple TV apps, it's easier than ever to take advantage of VPN services through Apple TV. My current favorites include NordVPN and ExpressVPN.

What is the best VPN for the Apple TV right now?

The best VPN for Apple TV is NordVPN. NordVPN offers a native Apple TV app, removing the hassle of installing a VPN directly on your router. Furthermore, this service provides excellent speeds, performance, and an expansive server network. Prices begin at $3.39 per month.

If you're looking for a cheaper option, you could also look at Surfshark. If speed is king, ExpressVPN is the way forward.

Also: Best free VPNs of 2025

The ZDNET team has decades of combined experience in testing VPN services, and we strive to provide you with the best options on the market to make informed purchases. I have tested over a dozen VPNs over the years and I understand what functions and features are the most important when you are looking for a new service, so if you're looking for an Apple TV-compatible VPN, check out my favorites below.

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The best VPNs for Apple TV in 2025

NordVPN is one of the best Apple TV VPNs available due to its speed, stability, security, and server network.

Why we like it: This VPN is compatible with Apple TV and doesn't require any adjustments to the domain name service (DNS) settings to implement. The company operates NordVPN for tvOS, a native Apple TV app that you can download here.

The NordVPN user interface is clear and attractive, and the service is easy to install and set up. In the past, NordVPN limited its customers to six simultaneous connections but has since increased the limit to 10 devices under one account. This gives you enough scope to use this VPN on devices other than your TV, such as your PC, smartphone, or tablet.

NordVPN has a server network spanning 111 countries, providing you with numerous options for streaming and accessing geo-restricted content. It's one of the best streaming VPNs I've tested as well, and it demonstrates high success rates when accessing services including Netflix.

In March, an independent audit conducted by Cure53 found that the VPN works as intended, although some vulnerabilities were discovered and fixed.

Review: NordVPN

Who it's for: Customers say they like the VPN's speed and stability as well as the top-notch support. During testing, I consistently found this VPN to be one of the fastest available with excellent streaming capabilities and solid connectivity, so I think this VPN will suit most use cases.

Prices start from $3.39 per month if you sign up for two years of service, $5 per month for a one-year plan, or a standard month-to-month subscription comes in at $13 for basic protection. Available add-ons include browsing protection, anti-malware scanners, ad-blockers, cloud storage, and a password manager.

Who should look elsewhere: A disadvantage of NordVPN is that you can't have unlimited simultaneous connections under one account, and so if this is important to you, consider Surfshark or another of my recommendations.

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ExpressVPN is a popular VPN service that consistently provides strong stability and performance across the board.

Why we like it: This VPN is my top pick for speed, having consistently provided the least speed loss during my frequent speed and security tests.

ExpressVPN has servers in 105 countries and offers up to eight simultaneous connections, but I'd like to see this become unlimited, considering the cost. Still, if you plan to use it on your smartphone, you'll also be able to enjoy recent upgrades to its mobile apps with improved user interfaces, speed test functions, and a new map view.

Review: ExpressVPN

With the launch of tvOS 17, this VPN received a dedicated app for Apple TV. The software can be quickly downloaded from the App Store and installed on your device. If you have an older version of tvOS and cannot or do not want to update, you can use ExpressVPN's MediaStreamer service as an alternative.

Who it's for: During testing, I found ExpressVPN to be a speedy, solid service. On rare occasions, I did run up against IP-based website blocks. If you're looking for a speed-first, everything-else-second VPN, ExpressVPN is right for you.

Customers say they typically have a positive experience with this VPN provider and that customer support is excellent.

Who should look elsewhere: This is the most expensive VPN on our list, even with relatively recent price reductions, and so it might not appeal to everyone.

Subscriptions for two-year contracts are available for $5 per month with four months of free access added to the length of the contract. Other plans available include $6.67 per month on an annual plan with three months free, and one month of access for $12.95.

Some users have also reported automatic billing issues, so keep this in mind.

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Surfshark is the best option if you want a cheap VPN to disguise your activities and help you access geo-restricted content when using Apple TV.

Why we like it: Surfshark provides 3,200 servers in 100 countries with unlimited connections. The company released a native Apple TV app in 2024 for tvOS 17 and up. Alternatively, you can use Surfshark's Smart DNS feature, but keep in mind that this option is limited to a U.S. location and won't provide the same functionality as the VPN itself.

Review: Surfshark VPN

Surfshark customers say the service is easy to use and customer support is excellent. In my speed testing, I found Surfshark's performance reasonable, especially considering the price point.

I also like the engaging user interface and the handy pause function, which allows you to stop your VPN for five minutes or longer.

Who it's for: Anyone new to the VPN world or those looking for a budget-friendly VPN subscription.

Surfshark is one of the most affordable VPNs on the market, with two-year plans starting at $2.19 per month and coming with three months of free access. Yearly plans offer the same number of free months and begin at $3.19 per month.

Monthly signups are expensive, with pricing starting at $15.45, but a 30-day money-back guarantee is available for longer-term signups instead.

Who should look elsewhere: If you're willing to spend a little more every month, you can trade up to a faster service like ExpressVPN.

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Proton VPN, developed by engineers dedicated to online security, uses robust protocols and strong encryption to help mask your online activities.

Why we like it: Proton VPN released its Apple TV app in 2024, and more streaming capabilities are on the firm's 2025 product roadmap. In addition, the organization intends to improve its macOS and iOS apps to include split tunneling, port forwarding, and guest modes.

Review: Proton VPN

Proton VPN offers a kill switch, the benefit of open-source technologies, a server network including 91 countries, and up to ten simultaneous connections. My tests revealed no domain name service (DNS) leaks and reasonable speeds.

Who it's for: This VPN is protected by Swiss privacy laws, and it is independently audited. A strict no-logs policy is also in place, making it a top choice for security-conscious users. It's worth noting that proposed changes to the country's strict data protection stance have led Proton to say it will emigrate if the bill passes.

The best deal is $3.59 per month on a two-year plan. Alternatively, Proton VPN's plans include 12 months for $4 per month, while one month of access costs $10.

Who should look elsewhere: A free plan is also available with limited server access, but this option isn't suitable for streaming, however, so you should opt for a paid plan if your primary reason for using a VPN is streaming, Apple TV use, or gaming.

Alternatively, check out Surfshark for unlimited simultaneous connections or NordVPN for the best Apple TV VPN overall.

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IPVanish is a strong contender in the VPN space and is a popular option for streaming and day-to-day VPN use.

Why we like it: IPVanish released an Apple TV-compatible app with the launch of tvOS 17. Across the board, it is a highly customizable option with fast connection speeds and solid transfers. The IKEv2 protocol is used to handle Apple TV connections.

Review: IPVanish

Other features include a kill switch, ad and tracker blocking, encrypted storage, and unlimited simultaneous connections. Recent updates to its server network, which now consists of 108 countries, have put it on par with many rival services.

The company has also launched a new Trust Center and a new, independent audit has verified IPVanish's no-logs policy.

Who it's for: IPVanish delivers a solid user experience overall. According to customer feedback, this VPN works well when streaming and while customers are abroad, and so I would recommend this VPN if you are looking for an affordable, reliable solution.

If you commit to two years, IPVanish offers a plan for $2.19 per month. This increases to $3.33 per month for a yearly plan and $13 for a month-to-month subscription.

Who should look elsewhere: I've also found this VPN to be very reliable with reasonable speeds. However, my frequent speed tests indicate that this option may lag behind some of its competitors, so if speed is your top priority, consider looking elsewhere.

Note: IPVanish is owned by Ziff Davis, ZDNET's parent company. For more, see our Editorial Guidelines.

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Also: The best streaming VPNs: Expert tested

VPN	Price	Simultaneous connections	Native Apple TV app?
NordVPN	$3.39+ per month	10	Yes
Express VPN	$5+ per month	8	Yes
Surfshark	$2.19+ per month	Unlimited	Yes
Proton VPN	$3.59+ per month	10	Yes
IPVanish	$2.19+ per month	Unlimited	Yes

VPNs that provide a native app for Apple TV can be used to disguise your original IP address, giving you a relatively anonymous connection and the ability to access geo-restricted content. This might include content restricted to specific locations. This can come in handy if you are traveling and you don't want to miss your favorite TV show.

Your VPN can also help disguise your activities from your internet service provider (ISP). This can be especially important if you are on a plan that throttles your speed or bandwidth when your ISP detects streaming.

How to set up an Apple TV VPN

There are different ways to use a VPN with your Apple TV setup. After Apple announced support for third-party VPNs with the release of tvOS 17 in 2023, many VPN providers began developing native apps for use with the operating system. Not everyone has jumped on board yet.

If your chosen VPN provider offers a native Apple TV app, the process is simple. Head to Apple's App Store and select the search function to find your VPN app. Download the app, install it, and provide the VPN with any requested device permissions. Open the app and log in to the service via your Apple TV remote with your username, email, and password you created when you subscribed. Alternatively, some VPNs allow you to log in through a QR code or access code on another device.

You also need to ensure that your Apple TV is up-to-date. To update your Apple TV, go to settings and find the software updates tab. Once your VPN has been installed, select a country or choose quick connect, and you should be good to go.

If there is no native Apple TV app available, you may have to set up a VPN service on your router instead. Most VPN providers have extensive FAQ sections on their sites detailing how to complete a manual setup. It's best to reference those instructions for the specific VPN you're using, and to contact support if you have any issues.

Alternatively, you can try a Smart DNS workaround. Smart DNS attempts to unblock geo-restricted content and services, even when there is no native VPN support available. Smart DNS is a feature made available by top VPN providers, but enabling it to work with your Apple TV will vary by provider.

For example, if you want to use NordVPN's Smart DNS feature on your Apple TV rather than its native app, open the app, navigate to the Services section, select Smart DNS, and hit Activate. Go into your Apple TV dashboard, head to network settings, and choose Configure DNS, Manual. Input NordVPN's smart DNS server addresses and select submit. The app will either generate Smart DNS settings for you, or you'll have to look up the addresses provided by your VPN service.

Many providers recommended in this list have been subject to in-depth testing and reviews by members of the ZDNET team. We've been talking about VPNs for years, spoken with their management and their users, and developed a generally favorable impression.

ZDNET tests VPN services from multiple locations, but we can't test from all locations. Every home, community, local ISP, and nation has a different infrastructure.

I analyzed the best VPNs for Apple TV using the following criteria to help you make an informed decision:

Performance: My top VPNs must have a minimum level of performance. After all, there's no point in using a VPN while streaming if your connection continually drops or lags.
Simultaneous connections: Many VPNs limit the number of devices you can connect to a service at the same time. If you have a phone, tablet, laptop, desktop, or smart TV you want to connect to a VPN, you need a service that allows at least five or six simultaneous connections. However, I like to see this as unlimited.
Security: There's no point in using a VPN unless its security protocols and encryption levels are up to scratch. I also ensured that the development team behind each recommended VPN prioritizes making security improvements over time and patching reported bugs.
Kill switch: A kill switch prevents you from having an unprotected connection. It is an important feature for a VPN, as it protects you by preventing a return to a default Wi-Fi connection should your internet connection unexpectedly drop.
Geo-blocks and streaming: VPNs can be key to accessing local content and services while you're away from home. I ensured that our top recommendations performed well, given these factors, and are unlikely to slow down your connection while streaming.
Platforms: What systems and devices can you run the VPN on? My Apple TV VPN recommendations have to offer easy-to-use and intuitive apps suitable for this hardware.
Countries and servers: In how many different countries does the VPN have servers? This can include physical and virtual servers and whether there are enough -- at least 60 or so -- to provide variety.
Trial length and price: The majority of VPNs I recommend have a solid money-back guarantee of at least 30 days. Some VPN providers, like CyberGhost, offer you even longer. I want to see money-back guarantees that give customers the option to bow out if they are unhappy with the service.

For a more extensive breakdown, check out our comprehensive VPN testing methodology page.

Choose this Apple TV VPN...	If you want...
NordVPN	A do-it-all secure VPN with Apple TV compatibility. NordVPN is a very fast and reliable VPN service that offers plenty of simultaneous connections and over 100 countries in its server network. Overall, it offers everything that most users will need or want.
ExpressVPN	An exceptionally fast service. ExpressVPN offers a native tvOS app and provides you with a simple interface, stable connectivity, and an expansive server network. While it's expensive and you don't get unlimited simultaneous connections, its an excellent VPN.
Surfshark	To pay less. Surfshark is an affordable VPN option that provides a range of useful features, including a dedicated tvOS app. You can also enjoy unlimited simultaneous connections. Surfshark offers some fo the best value for money.
Proton VPN	To put security first. The open source Proton VPN service now has a native app available for Apple TV and you can benefit from its wide range of security features while streaming. There's also a free option.
IPVanish	A configurable VPN service. IPVanish is designed to be easy to set up and use, with unlimited connections -- which we always like to see -- and fast connection speeds. A native app is also available for Apple TV.

When you are selecting your new Apple TV VPN, you need to consider the following factors:

Price: One of the most significant factors in choosing a new VPN is the price. You tend to get the best deals on longer contracts, but you can still sign up for a month or so to try out a service if you prefer. We recommend avoiding free VPNs -- with a few exceptions -- as they may sell your data or bombard you with ads. Plans from reputable VPNs can often be as little as a few dollars per month, although you might have to pay tax on top.
Simultaneous connections: If you're paying for a VPN suitable for your Apple TV, you might still want to use it across multiple devices, such as a desktop PC or laptop. We recommend you sign up for a plan supporting at least six devices. Thankfully, many paid VPN plans now offer unlimited connections.
Contract length: You must also decide how long you want a VPN. A two-year term tends to secure the best prices, but other options are available, including month-to-month plans, one-year terms, or, sometimes, even five-year contracts or lifetime subscriptions. After you've made a selection, there's typically a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Apps: When selecting a VPN, try it first to ensure you like its accompanying app. Some VPNs, for example, have great desktop software but might not have a native Apple TV app available. If possible, select a VPN with a native Apple TV app to save you finding a workaround.
Servers: When you are looking for a VPN to use with your Apple TV, it may be that the main reason is to access different libraries. So, check that the VPN you want to use has servers in the country or location you want before signing up.

A new independent evaluation by West Coast Labs has confirmed NordVPN's approach to security, applying eight data leak scenario tests. The company also tested benchmark performance metrics.
Proton has suggested it will leave Switzerland, a country known for its strict data protection laws and Proton VPN's base of operations, if a controversial bill that could undermine user privacy is passed.
The new owners of VPNSecure, following its acquisition, have canceled user lifetime subscriptions, claiming it was unaware of legacy deals.

No. Since 2023, Apple has provided support for third-party VPN providers, allowing these services to develop native applications compatible with its set-top box.

Apple said the support was made available "to benefit enterprise and education users wanting to access content on their private networks, allowing Apple TV to be a great office and conference room solution in even more places." It was also good news for consumers who want the additional features and security of a VPN without having to use workarounds to combine their VPN service with an Apple TV subscription.

On their own, Smart DNS services offered by VPNs do not provide the same protection or security as a VPN. A VPN allows you to change your location and IP address while creating an encrypted tunnel to mask your online activities and improve your online security. By comparison, Smart DNS only changes your IP address to hopefully unblock geo-restricted content.

Probably not. Unless you want a VPN to access geo-blocked content libraries, paying for a VPN service just for your Apple TV might not be worth your money. That said, the majority of VPN providers will give you more than one connection at a time. This means you can use your VPN to protect your PC, smartphone, and other devices simultaneously.

While there are free VPNs and free VPN plans, the majority will come with speed, server, or device connection restrictions. For your Apple TV, we recommend that you sign up for a paid VPN plan so you don't have issues with Smart DNS functionality, speed, or security.

First, choose a reputable VPN vendor with a strong security background. Then, to check that your VPN is working properly, compare your IP address before and after enabling a VPN connection. You can find this in your device's settings, typically under Wi-Fi, or by visiting whatismyipaddress.com. If you see the same IP address, your VPN is probably not working properly, as a VPN should assign you a new IP address.

You can also visit dnsleaktest.com to see if any domain name service (DNS) leaks have been detected while using a VPN, which could be a sign that your information is being leaked.

Finally, be careful with free VPNs offered by unknown or shady companies, especially if they are outside of official app repositories. This could open your device up to surveillance or malware.

Apple TV VPN services are legal in the U.S., but service legality varies from country to country.

Some countries, including North Korea, Belarus, and Iraq, ban VPNs outright, whereas others, such as Russia and China, do not approve of the use of non-state-controlled VPNs.

Usually, it isn't the legality of a VPN that is a core issue but rather what you use it for. As an example, using a VPN to access geolocked content outside of your contract with a streaming service provider may break its terms of service.

However, if you intend to use a VPN in another country and are unsure of its legality, you can check out NordVPN's guide.

Yes, it is possible. VPNs are only one method to improve your online privacy and security, but no single software solution will protect you completely. While many VPN providers operate no-logs policies and use strong encryption, you may be still be tracked by your internet service provider (ISP), cookies, tracking scripts, and because of domain name service (DNS) leaks.

You can, but free VPNs will usually restrict speed, bandwidth, and country server selection. You might also be limited to select servers, increasing load and potentially impacting service.

We wouldn't recommend using free VPNs for frequent streaming, but if you'd still like to try out a free VPN for Apple TV first, we suggest you check out Proton VPN or Windscribe. Alternatively, sign up for a plan with one of our recommended VPNs and take advantage of their money-back guarantees.