Best VPNs for Firestick and Amazon Fire TV for Streaming

The Amazon Fire TV and Fire TV Stick are great portable, plug-and-play devices that make it easy to stream your favorite media content on your television. They give you on-demand access to thousands of hours of video from Amazon Prime, Netflix, Hulu, and more. The Android-based Fire TV operating system is also a favorite among Kodi users.

Unfortunately, much of that content is geo-locked, meaning you can’t access channels on the Firestick while abroad. Video libraries are limited due to content licensing agreements, and local sporting events are blacked out due to exclusive broadcast rights. Kodi users streaming from popular add-ons might need a way to hide their activity from their internet service provider.

The solution to all of these issues is to add a VPN to Firestick. Short for Virtual Private Network, a VPN service encrypts the Fire TV’s internet connection and routes it through an intermediary server in a location of the user’s choosing. This can change your IP address, and thus your perceived location, to access geo-locked content from Canada, the UK, Australia, or anywhere else in the world. The encryption vastly improves your privacy and masks your activity from snooping ISPs.

We provide in-depth detail on each of our top selections below, but here’s a summary in case you need to skip ahead.

Here are the best VPNs for the Amazon Firestick:

1. NordVPN Top choice for Amazon Fire TV Stick users. Great on speed, security, and unblocking ability. Over 6,000 servers in 100+ countries. Has a 30-day money-back guarantee for a risk free trial.
   TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for Amazon Fire TV.
2. Surfshark: Our budget pick for Firestick users. Quick, versatile, and reliable, with no connection or bandwidth limits.
3. IPVanish: Lightweight, remote-control friendly. Strong online security and decent speeds. Connect as many devices as you like.
4. ExpressVPN: Boasts exceptional unblocking ability, solid speeds, and a major focus on privacy. Knowledgeable 24/7 support.
5. CyberGhost: A beginner-friendly VPN with specific servers for unblocking major streaming sites. Fast, secure, and easy to use.
6. PrivateVPN: Newest service on this list with fast servers that are good for streaming content.

Note: Not all VPNs come with Firestick apps. We have a separate guide for installing VPNs on Amazon Firestick and Fire TV devices.

Criteria for selecting VPN services

To help choose an Amazon Fire TV VPN, we’ve narrowed down our list of the best VPNs for Amazon Fire TV and Fire TV Stick based on the following criteria:

• VPN app available on Fire TV app store or Android APK available for direct download (makes installing much easier)
• A lightweight app that won’t drag down performance
• Fast streaming speed and reliable performance
• Compatible with all Kodi add-ons
• Bonus points for being able to securely access platforms like Netflix and Hulu

Note: not every VPN service on this list works with Amazon Prime Video from abroad. We’ve got a separate article for Amazon Prime VPNs, some of which also appear on this list.

Let’s take a closer look at the VPNs that made the cut.

Best VPNs for Firestick and Fire TV: at a glance

We’ve compared the most important features for the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for Firestick.

Best VPNs for Amazon Firestick and Fire TV

Here is our list of the best VPNs for Firestick and Fire TV:

1. NordVPN

Nov 2024 Works with Fire TVTested Nov 2024

NordVPN is our number-one choice VPN for Firestick and Fire TV. This veteran provider has an official Fire TV app, so you can download it right from Amazon on the Firestick or the Fire TV Cube. Just search for NordVPN and it should be the first option.

NordVPN has servers optimized for ultra-fast streaming and can securely access US Netflix and Hulu from the Android app. The Panama-based provider holds to a true zero-logs policy and maintains strong security standards. A single subscription nets you six simultaneous and very reliable connections. Tutorials for a wide range of router firmware are available on its website as well.

The NordVPN Android APK is available here (direct download link).

BEST VPN FOR FIRE TV STICK:NordVPN is our top choice. Works well with Amazon Fire TV Stick and has a compatible app. Solid security and privacy performer. Fastest speeds around. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can try it risk-free.

Read our full NordVPN review here, or check out our video review instead.

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2. Surfshark

Works with Fire TVTested Nov 2024

Surfshark operates more than 3,200 servers throughout 100+ countries. There’s minimal setup required as it has an app in the Amazon app store. With reasonable speeds, no connection limit, and the ability to access popular services, this VPN is ideal for streaming. In fact, it’ll even let you securely access platforms like Netflix US, BBC iPlayer, and ITV Hub from abroad.

There are many powerful security features built in. These include 256-bit AES encryption, an automatic kill switch (that automatically stops all internet traffic when you lose connection suddenly), and protection against DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks. What’s more, users can block ads and malware automatically or let certain apps bypass the VPN entirely. Surfshark doesn’t log any personally identifiable information, so your online activities can’t be traced back to you. Live chat-based customer support is on hand 24/7.

Surfshark has iOS, Android, Windows, MacOS, and Linux apps. Manual installation is required for use with supported internet routers.

BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark is an inexpensive yet versatile service, capable of securely accessing plenty of streaming platforms from abroad. It also boasts a dedicated Firestick app, a no-logging privacy policy, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full Surfshark review here, or check out our video review below.

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3. IPVanish

Works with Fire TVTested Nov 2024

IPVanish VPN is a favorite among Kodi users, and for good reason. It offers unlimited bandwidth and data for HD video streaming. Strong encryption and a no-logging policy hide your activity from your internet service provider. IPVanish has a huge network of servers worldwide, so unblocking content shouldn’t be a problem as long as VPN connections aren’t blocked. Subscribers can connect any number of streaming devices at once. The app interface is particularly well-suited for Fire TV and can be used with the Fire TV remote.

IPVanish has created an app specifically for Firestick, which is now available directly from Amazon’s official app store on your Fire TV. Just search for IPVanish and it will pop up. The app is fully compatible with your remote control and very easy to use.

UNLIMITED CONNECTIONS:IPVanish is a solid choice. Has an app designed specifically for use with the Fire TV or Firestick. Scores highly for privacy and security. A favorite with Kodi users and torrenters. 30-day money back guarantee.

Read our full IPVanish review here, or check out our video review below.

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4. ExpressVPN

Works with Fire TVTested Nov 2024

ExpressVPN boasts the highest standards when it comes to speed and security. It has servers in over 100+ countries and is one of the few VPNs that works with American Netflix and Hulu from outside the US. ExpressVPN has a version of its app specifically for Fire TV, which is now available through the official app store on your Firestick. You can easily install it and control the VPN with your stock remote control.

If you have a first-generation Fire TV Stick and want to set up ExpressVPN on your wifi router, ExpressVPN makes custom router firmware you can flash to certain router models, or you can purchase a pre-configured router directly from the company. ExpressVPN subscriptions also come with a smart DNS proxy solution called MediaStreamer, which you can also use to stream geo-locked content. MediaStreamer can be set up in the Fire TV’s settings without the need to install an app.

GREAT ALL-ROUNDER:ExpressVPN holds its own. A fast and reliable choice that works well with major streaming services including Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, BBC and others. Comes with a Fire TV specific app. Boasts great privacy features and a no-logs policy

Read our full ExpressVPN review.

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5. CyberGhost

Works with Fire TVTested Nov 2024

CyberGhost has just put out the Fire TV version of its app, which you can find and download via the search function on your Firestick or Fire TV Cube. This VPN allows you to choose a server according to the streaming service you want to unblock, rather than forcing you to choose a server location and hope for the best. This makes it extremely easy to securely access Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and many more services as you travel. Get the CyberGhost App on Amazon.

Surfing and connection speeds are great–plenty fast enough for you to stream high-quality video without buffering. CyberGhost has excellent security policies and practices and adheres to a no-logs policy. It operates 10,000+ servers in more than 100 countries.

Apps are also available for Windows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, and Android.

NOVICE FRIENDLY VPN:CyberGhost is great for beginners. A fast and reliable service that works well with Amazon Firestick and provides a Fire TV version of its app. Stores no internet activity logs and streams HD video reliably. Dedicated streaming servers and a 45-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full CyberGhost review.

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6. PrivateVPN

Works with Fire TVTested Nov 2024

PrivateVPN recently launched a Fire TV version of its app, which you can download and install directly from the official Amazon app store on your Firestick with no workarounds or hacks. This service, not to be confused with Private Internet Access, is a fresh up-and-comer in the VPN industry. While it has a smaller VPN server network than the other options on this list, it performs just as well when it comes to securely accessing services like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer.

PrivateVPN also uses strong encryption standards on par with its veteran counterparts. It boasts a no-logging policy and allows up to 10 simultaneous and secure connections.

GOOD SPEEDS:PrivateVPN is a good family choice. Comes with a specific Fire TV version of the app. Good for HD Streaming. Allows up to 10 devices on the same account. Could do with having more VPN servers and lacks 24/7 support. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full PrivateVPN review.

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How to set up a Firestick VPN

Setting up a VPN on your Firestick is a straightforward process, so there’s no need to worry about many techie details!

Here’s how to set up a Firestick VPN

1. Subscribe to our #1 recommended VPN for Firestick, NordVPN. Alternatively, Surfshark, IPVanish, and ExpressVPN are strong choices.
2. Download and install the correct app from your VPN provider’s website or Amazon’s app store.
3. Enter your username and password for the VPN service; you can usually find these in your account area on the VPN company’s website when you sign up.
4. Select a server of your choice; the closer it is geographically, the faster it will be, most often.
5. Once connected, open whatever streaming service or media player you want to use and start watching!
6. To disconnect, simply press ‘Disconnect’ in the app or close the app, and you will be disconnected.

Note: If your VPN doesn’t offer an Amazon Firestick-compatible app, you can install the OpenVPN Connect app from the Amazon App Store and enter your login details manually. This works on many devices, including Firesticks, but may not be as user-friendly as a dedicated app. For a more in-depth guide, check out our Amazon Fire TV VPN setup guide or our Fire TV Kodi setup tutorial.

Controlling mouse input on Firestick

Some VPN apps don’t work well with the Fire TV remote and require at least a mouse to use. The obvious solution is to connect a Bluetooth mouse, which is supported by newer versions of the Fire TV and Fire TV Stick.

Another option is to use an app that turns your smartphone into a mouse that can be used to control your Fire TV.

Check out our video tutorial on how to install and control an Android VPN app that isn’t available from Amazon’s Fire TV app store. This example uses NordVPN’s old app for demonstration:

Other tips for geo-unblocking on Fire TV

Once you have a VPN enabled on your Fire TV, your newly assigned IP address should allow you to unblock most geographically restricted content. However, certain apps and streaming sources might require a few more steps.

Change DNS settings on Fire TV

Some users, particularly those using their Fire TV devices with a VPN set up on a virtual or physical router, have had issues with changing their location to unblock geo-locked content. This is possibly due to the Fire TV sending DNS requests outside of the VPN tunnel.

The solution is to change your Fire TV’s DNS settings. Check with your VPN provider to see if they have a DNS address you can use. If not, we recommend finding a DNS address for your desired country from OpenNIC.

You will need the IP address of your wifi router. This is usually 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1.

With the DNS address and router IP in hand, do the following:

1. When you connect to your wifi network for the first time (use the Forget Network function if you’ve connected previously), on the menu where you enter your wifi password, click on Advanced.
2. Enter your router IP address, but change the last digit. It can be anything that isn’t already assigned between 2 and 255. An example would be 192.168.1.100
3. Enter your router IP address under Gateway.
4. Under Network Prefix Length, enter 24
5. Under DNS1 and DNS2, enter your primary and alternative DNS addresses
6. Click Connect

Change your timezone on Fire TV

To access some geo-locked content, your device’s timezone might need to align with the country from which you’re streaming video.

Here’s how to change your time zone on a Fire TV:

1. From the Home menu, scroll down and select Settings
2. Select System > Time Zone
3. Select Time Zone and choose the time zone for your desired country

Change your Amazon account to desired country

For some content, such as Amazon Prime Video and Amazon Instant Video, you may need to change your Amazon account to the US or another country. To do this, log into your Amazon account in a web browser and do the following:

1. Click Your Account > Manage your content and devices
2. Click the Settings tab
3. Under Country settings, click the Change button
4. Enter your US address. If you don’t have one, just Google the address of a hotel or something
5. Click Update

Methodology: Choosing the best VPNs for Amazon Fire Stick

Every VPN is different, and not all of them are well-suited to Amazon Fire Stick or Fire TV. We performed hands-on testing of various services to find those that are the fastest, most secure, and most reliable for Firestick users. Here’s a quick overview of the key areas our team focused on:

• Availability: First off, we require VPNs to either be available from the Amazon app store or allow users to grab the .APK file directly from its website. Ideally, services would support every other major operating system as well.
• Server options: We prefer VPNs with lots of server locations. This allows you to access a wider range of content and reduces the distance to your closest server, minimizing latency. If a provider offers servers optimized for streaming or multi-hop connections, that’s even better.
• Speed: Nobody wants laggy playback, which is why fast speeds are so important. Our team of experts regularly runs performance tests to make sure that we only recommend the quickest, most reliable providers on the market. 
• Privacy features: We’ll never recommend a service that can’t keep you safe online. All of our top VPNs follow a no-logging policy and offer uncrackable encryption, leak protection, and a kill switch, but more advanced security tools are a huge plus.
• Ease of use: We’re big fans of services with remote control-friendly interfaces, beginner-friendly designs, and the ability to access stubborn geo-locked platforms. The VPNs above all work with services like Netflix, Disney Plus, and Peacock.
• Value for money: Our goal is to make sure you pay as little as possible. That’s why we’ll always let you know about deals, discounts, money-back guarantees, or free trials whenever they’re available.

Want to learn more? We have a whole post that explains exactly how we test VPNs at Comparitech.

VPN for Firestick FAQ