Navigating the maze of geographical restrictions on streaming platforms like YouTube TV can be daunting. Have you ever been overseas, away from the US, and encountered this disappointing message:
“Sorry, but YouTube TV is not available in your area just yet.”
or
“YouTube TV VPN proxy detected”
This isn’t just a mild inconvenience; it’s a barrier between you and your favorite shows. It’s like buying a ticket but being turned away at the door. But here’s the silver lining: After comprehensive research and rigorous testing, we’ve found the key – A VPN or Virtual Private Network.
By utilizing a VPN server, you can access your favorite YouTube TV shows on that beach vacation and arm yourself with a shield of encryption. Think of it as a private tunnel: bypassing prying eyes and accessing a world of content. A VPN also ensures your safety against fraud risks during online banking while you are out of the country. Imagine military-grade encryption working tirelessly so that no Wi-Fi provider, ISP, or even government bodies can track your digital footprints.
Discover as we explore the best VPN providers for watching YouTube TV without any fuss. Or if you’re pressed for time, check out our handpicked list of the best VPNs ready for seamless YouTube streaming:
- NordVPN: Our top YouTube TV VPN. Boasts lightning-fast speeds and streaming-optimized servers. Exceptional at accessing geo-restricted content and a 30-day risk-free money-back guarantee.
TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Basic) works perfectly for Youtube TV. - Surfshark: A fast and secure provider with no connection or bandwidth limits. Works great with YouTube TV, YouTube Premium, and similar services.
- IPVanish: Allows any number of simultaneous connections on a single account. Superb speeds for streaming a wide variety of media.
- ExpressVPN: A large network capable of HD speeds. Secure and private connections. Servers in 94 countries. Secure apps for all platforms.
- CyberGhost: Easy to install and use. Perfect for beginners. Plenty of fast servers in the United States and in 89 other countries.
- PrivateVPN: Fast servers and can provide reliable access to most streaming services. 200 servers in 63 countries.
- PureVPN: A speedy, easy-to-use VPN that works flawlessly with YouTube TV. Doesn’t compromise where privacy is concerned, either.
- ProtonVPN: Security-first service with a large network, a proven no-logging policy, and 24/7 customer support. Has no problems with YouTube TV or streaming apps that stump other VPNs.
Many VPNs claim to work with Youtube TV but most (especially free VPNs) are often blocked.
We regularly test the top 70 VPNs with all major streaming sites and this list only includes VPNs which reliably unblock Youtube TV and offer a full money-back guarantee, allowing you to try them risk-free.
WANT TO TRY THE TOP VPN FOR YOUTUBE TV RISK FREE?
NordVPN is offering a fully-featured risk-free 30-day trial if you sign up at this page. You can use the VPN rated #1 for YouTube TV without limits or restrictions for a month – great for overcoming YouTube TV's geo-restrictions and watching on vacation.
There are no hidden terms—just contact support within 30 days if you decide NordVPN isn't right for you and you'll get a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here.
How to use YouTube TV abroad with a VPN
Using a VPN is easy, even if you’ve never used one before. You can trick YouTube TV into thinking you are in the US to stream media from anywhere in the world.
Just follow these proven steps to watch YouTube TV with a VPN:
- Start by signing up with a suitable VPN service provider (we recommend NordVPN).
- Next, install the YouTube TV VPN software. Most services offer apps for Windows, MacOS, iOS, and Android, so make sure to get the right version.
- Log in to the VPN app.
- Connect to one of your VPN’s American servers.
- If you haven’t already done so, create a YouTube TV account. Note that this will require a payment method linked to a US address. The subscription payment is $72.99 per month (correct as of mid-2023).
- Try loading a video or stream on YouTube TV. It should start playing almost immediately, but if not, try refreshing the page or clearing your browser’s cache and cookies.
If you’d like to watch a specific show live, we recommend performing the steps above before it actually airs. This gives you time to contact customer support if anything doesn’t work as intended and means you may not have to miss part of your favorite shows.
Best YouTube TV VPNs – Our hands-on review
We’ve tested and compared the most important features of the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for YouTube TV abroad.
No value | NordVPN | Surfshark | IPVanish | ExpressVPN | CyberGhost | PrivateVPN | PureVPN | Proton VPN |
Website | NordVPN.com | Surfshark.com | IPVanish.com | ExpressVPN.com | Cyberghost.com | PrivateVPN.com | PureVPN.com | protonvpn.com | Ranking for YouTube | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | Avg Speed (Mbps) | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 74 Mbps | 400 Mbps | 100+ Mbps | Devices Supported | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVs, Routers | Windows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, Android | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Smart TVs, Chromebook, Routers | Windows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, Android, Chromebook | Total number of servers | 6,000+ | 3,200 | 2,200+ | Undisclosed | 11,000+ | 200+ | 6,500+ | 3,800 | Simultaneous Connections | 10 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 8 | 7 | 10 | 10 | Free: 1, VPN Plus: 10 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Best deal (per month) | $2.99 74% off 2 year plans + 3 EXTRA months | $1.99 87% OFF + 4 months free | $2.19 SAVE 83% on the 2 yr plan | $6.67 SAVE: 49% + 3 months free | $2.03 SAVE 84% on the 2 year plan + 4 months free! | $2.00 Save 85% on a one year plan + 24-months free | $1.99 85% off the 5-yr standard plan | $2.99 SAVE 70% on a 2-year plan |
How to choose the right VPN for YouTube TV
With so many different VPN services available, it can be difficult to choose just one. Some offer expansive server networks, while others might prioritize speed, internet security, or the ability to access a greater range of services securely. To find the best VPNs for YouTube TV, we looked for services meeting the criteria below:
- Capable of unblocking local channels from YouTube TV and similar services from abroad
- It has a vast network, with several US servers to choose from
- Provides robust encryption and additional security features
- Never logs personally identifiable information or usage data
- Has both mobile device and desktop apps, with minimal differences between each version
- Offers great value for money, including a money-back guarantee
- Has helpful customer support, preferably with live chat
For more information about how we test and recommend VPNs for YouTube, check out our detailed VPN testing methodology article.
Best VPNs for YouTube TV
Based on our real-world testing, here is our list of the top VPN providers for YouTube TV. Use these summaries to pick the perfect VPN for your needs:
1. NordVPN
Nov 2024 Unblocks YouTubeTested Nov 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- FireTV
Website: www.NordVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
NordVPN boasts a network of more than 6,200 servers worldwide, with clusters all over the US. Its specialized servers cater to users who want to share files and access Tor or games without fear of DDoS attacks, making it a robust general-purpose VPN. However, thanks to its high speeds, it’s also excellent for streaming content. NordVPN works with platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney Plus, and, of course, YouTube TV from anywhere in the world.
This service uses 256-bit encryption and includes various additional security options. It has an application-specific kill switch, a dual-VPN feature, an automatic ad blocker, a malware scanner, and protection against WebRTC, IPv6, and DNS leaks. This VPN has a strict no-logs policy, so you can rest assured that your activities will always remain private.
NordVPN has Windows, Android, MacOS, iOS, and Linux-supported apps. However, it has to be manually configured on wireless routers.
NordVPN speed test data
No value | NordVPN |
Website | NordVPN.com | Average Connection Speed - North America (USA) | 354 Mbps | Average Connection Speed - Europe (UK) | 262 Mbps | Average Connection Speed - Asia (Hong Kong) | 284 Mbps |
---|---|
Best deal (per month) | $2.99 74% off 2 year plans + 3 EXTRA months |
Pros:
- Excellent speeds that are fast enough for high-definition streams
- Strong encryption and no logs make for top security and privacy
- Allows ten simultaneous connections on one account
- Apps for Windows, MacOS, iOS, Linux, and Android
Cons:
- Desktop apps can take a while to connect
Our score:
BEST VPN FOR YOUTUBE TV:NordVPN is our top choice for YouTube TV. A superb all-rounder with powerful security features and fast servers for streaming. Try it risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full review of NordVPN.
2. Surfshark
Unblocks YouTubeTested Nov 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.Surfshark.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Surfshark has around 3,200 servers in 65+ countries, including dozens of US cities, to stream YouTube TV. Surfshark VPN also works with services like Netflix US, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video abroad. Plus, with no connection limit, you’re free to browse and stream safely across all your devices.
This VPN protects your digital privacy using 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, traffic scrambling, IPv6, WebRTC, and DNS leak protection. As Surfshark doesn’t log any information that could identify you, you’ll be untraceable online. If you’d prefer even greater anonymity, you can sign up using a throwaway email address and pay via cryptocurrency. 24/7 support is available over live chat in case of any problems.
Surfshark offers apps for Linux, MacOS, Android, Windows, and iOS. It can be manually installed on supported wireless routers.
Surfshark speed test data
No value | Surfshark |
Website | Surfshark.com | Average Connection Speed - North America (USA) | 521 Mbps | Average Connection Speed - Europe (UK) | 702 Mbps | Average Connection Speed - Asia (Hong Kong) | 561 Mbps |
---|---|
Best deal (per month) | $1.99 87% OFF + 4 months free |
Pros:
- Works with many popular streaming services, including YouTube TV
- Fast enough for lag-free live streaming
- Strong focus on security and privacy
- Doesn’t keep any logs
- No connection limit
Cons:
- Customer support could be improved
Our score:
Read our full review of Surfshark here.
BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark is an inexpensive yet powerful service that works great with YouTube TV. Strong on security. 30-day money-back guarantee.
3. IPVanish
Unblocks YouTubeTested Nov 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.IPVanish.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
IPVanish has long been a favorite for streaming thanks to its expansive server network and strong multi-platform support. It currently has a smaller network of servers than some of the competition but with over 2,000 servers across 60+ countries, including 500+ in the US. IPVanish is fast enough to watch high-definition live streams without interruptions and can reliably unblock YouTube services. Further, this service permits unlimited simultaneous device connections.
On the security front, there’s 256-bit encryption, a kill switch (in both the mobile and desktop versions), and DNS and IPv6 leak protection. IPVanish also includes several features that most other VPNs don’t. You can block local traffic, for instance, or obfuscate OpenVPN traffic. As IPVanish doesn’t log any information that could identify you—and allows you to switch through IP addresses automatically regularly—it makes users very difficult to track online. Support is available over live chat, 24/7, in case of any issues.
IPVanish has lightweight Windows, MacOS, Amazon Fire, Android, and iOS apps. Linux devices and select wireless routers are supported but must be configured manually.
IPVanish speed test data
No value | IPVanish |
Website | IPVanish.com | Average Connection Speed - North America (USA) | 277 Mbps | Average Connection Speed - Europe (UK) | 237 Mbps | Average Connection Speed - Asia (Hong Kong) | 352 Mbps |
---|---|
Best deal (per month) | $2.19 SAVE 83% on the 2 yr plan |
Pros:
- Impressive 4K streaming speeds achieved during testing
- 500+ servers in the US
- Preferred by Kodi and Firestick TV for its remote-friendly apps
- Allows you to connect all of your devices at once
- Has now introduced WireGuard connections for even better speeds
Cons:
- Works with YouTube but struggles with some other streaming platforms
- Based in the US – a 5 Eyes Member
Our score:
NO CONNECTION LIMIT:IPVanish is great for families since it allows any number of connections. Unblocks YouTube and provides strong security. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full review of IPVanish.
4. ExpressVPN
Unblocks YouTubeTested Nov 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.ExpressVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ExpressVPN has servers in 15+ different US cities (and more than 3,000 globally), which means that you can use it to access YouTube TV and watch various city—or state-specific local channels. This VPN is ideal for streaming because it’s fast enough to watch live high-definition streams without any noticeable buffering.
256-bit encryption is enabled by default, and ExpressVPN keeps your activities private using DNS and IPv6 leak protection, a kill switch (desktop apps only), and perfect forward secrecy. No personally identifiable information is logged, so if you pay with Bitcoin and use a throwaway email address when signing up, you’ll be effectively untraceable. If you have any problems, customer support is available via 24/7 live chat.
This service offers apps for Linux, MacOS, Windows, iOS, and Android. Manual installation is required for supported network routers, but ExpressVPN’s custom firmware makes this process quick and easy.
ExpressVPN speed test data
No value | ExpressVPN |
Website | ExpressVPN.com | Average Connection Speed - North America (USA) | 319 Mbps | Average Connection Speed - Europe (UK) | 303 Mbps | Average Connection Speed - Asia (Hong Kong) | 278 Mbps |
---|---|
Best deal (per month) | $6.67 SAVE: 49% + 3 months free |
Pros:
- Super-fast servers are great for streaming in HD-quality
- Servers in 15 US cities
- Industry-leading security features
- No traffic logs
- 24/7 live chat customer support
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive than some of its competitors
- Lack of advanced configurations
Our score:
STRONG ON SECURITY:ExpressVPN is a privacy-focused provider that excels streaming. Provides a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full review of ExpressVPN.
5. CyberGhost
Unblocks YouTubeTested Nov 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.Cyberghost.com
Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS
CyberGhost works slightly differently from most VPNs in that you can choose a server for a specific task (such as securely accessing streaming sites or browsing anonymously) and have a suitable server assigned to you. It offers over 9,000 high-speed servers worldwide, with over 1,100 US-based servers. With the ability to connect up to seven devices at once, CyberGhost makes it easy to access whatever you want, wherever you want, regardless of your current location or device type.
This service keeps your traffic secure using 256-bit encryption, DNS, IPv6, port forwarding, and WebRTC leak protection. Every version of the software includes a kill switch, an ad blocker, and an anti-malware scanner. You can also get a dedicated IP address with CyberGhost, but an additional charge may apply.
CyberGhost does not log any personally identifiable information and accepts Bitcoin for maximum anonymity. This VPN comes with user-friendly Android, Windows, MacOS, and iOS apps. Manual installation is required for selected internet routers.
CyberGhost speed test data
No value | CyberGhost |
Website | Cyberghost.com | Average Connection Speed - North America (USA) | 449 Mbps | Average Connection Speed - Europe (UK) | 269 Mbps | Average Connection Speed - Asia (Hong Kong) | 167 Mbps |
---|---|
Best deal (per month) | $2.03 SAVE 84% on the 2 year plan + 4 months free! |
Pros:
- Apps are easy to install and use—a good option for beginners
- Testing revealed impressive speeds for streaming
- Good security with no logs and dedicated IP addresses
- No issues with US Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and more
Cons:
- Less suitable for power users who need more sophisticated setups
- Doesn’t work in China
Our score:
VALUE & PERFORMANCE:CyberGhost is fast and affordable. It has a simple setup with strong privacy credentials. Streams HD video reliably from all streaming platforms. Has a 45-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full review of CyberGhost.
6. PrivateVPN
Unblocks YouTubeTested Nov 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.PrivateVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
PrivateVPN is ideal for live streaming, thanks to it’s fast speeds. It has around 200 server locations globally, and 11 of these are in the US (in nine different states). This service has no problems streaming HD content on platforms like YouTube TV, Netflix, and Hulu, even from abroad. With six simultaneous connections allowed, PrivateVPN lets you protect all of your most commonly used devices with a single account.
This VPN has a strict no-logs policy and accepts Bitcoin, meaning you can register anonymously as long as you use a disposable email address. It uses 256-bit encryption by default, includes a kill switch that stops traffic when your internet connection is lost and protects against WebRTC, DNS, and IPv6 leaks. Customer support is available 24/7 via live chat, and with your permission, the staff can even remotely install the software for you.
This service includes dedicated Android, iOS, Windows, and MacOS apps. PrivateVPN also works on Linux-based systems and routers but requires manual configuration first.
PrivateVPN speed test data
No value | PrivateVPN |
Website | PrivateVPN.com | Average Connection Speed - North America (USA) | 94 Mbps | Average Connection Speed - Europe (UK) | 57 Mbps | Average Connection Speed - Asia (Hong Kong) | 62 Mbps |
---|---|
Best deal (per month) | $2.00 Save 85% on a one year plan + 24-months free |
Pros:
- Average speeds are good enough for high-quality streaming
- Works reliably with YouTube TV
- Can connect up to six devices simultaneously
Cons:
- Live chat goes offline for two hours per day
- Small number of servers to choose from
Our score:
GOOD STREAMING SPEED:PrivateVPN is consistently reliable. Good for general-purpose use and HD Streaming. Could do with having more servers and lacks 24/7 support. Has a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full review of PrivateVPN.
7. PureVPN
unblocks YouTubeTested Nov 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.PureVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 31 DAYS
PureVPN not only works with YouTube TV, it also allows you to securely stream content from platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime video, and Hulu. This service boasts exceptional speeds (almost 400 Mbps in our latest round of tests), doesn’t limit your bandwidth, and permits up to 10 simultaneous connections. In other words, it’s a great option for anyone planning on going abroad. Equally important, PureVPN offers around-the-clock customer support just in case of any problems.
We’re big fans of any VPN that simplifies security, and this one qualifies. By default, it prevents IPv6 and DNS leaks, uses effectively uncrackable encryption, and prevents you from browsing unprotected after an unexpected disconnection. PureVPN has undergone several independent audits, confirming beyond all doubt that it doesn’t keep logs. There is a tracker-blocking feature, too, but this is only included with Plus or Max plans. That’s a shame since many competing services include this as standard.
PureVPN has its own Android, iOS, MacOS, Windows, and Linux apps. Alternatively, it can be manually installed on a wide range of routers.
PureVPN speed test data
Pros:
- Fast, reliable, and great for streaming
- Novice-friendly security features
- Proven no-logs policy
Cons:
- No ad-blocking ability
- Support staff sometimes take a few minutes to reply
Our score:
VERSATILE AND SECURE:PureVPN provides fast American servers, a high level of security, and 24/7 support via live chat. It works great with YouTube TV and many other streaming platforms. New customers can take advantage of a 31-day money-back guarantee.
For more info, take a look at our full PureVPN review.
8. ProtonVPN
unblocks youtubeTested Nov 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.protonvpn.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ProtonVPN is best known for its free offering, but if you’re looking to stream YouTube TV (or anything, for that matter), you’ll have to upgrade to a paid plan. These grant access to the full server network (spanning 90 countries), increase the connection limit to 10 and remove the speed cap. That’s a huge deal since, in our latest testing, ProtonVPN delivered average speeds of around 330 Mbps. You’ll also be able to chat with support staff, day or night, if anything goes wrong.
If you’re the type of person who likes to customize their setup, you’ll find plenty to keep you occupied. For instance, there’s port forwarding and split tunneling functionality (on Windows, at least), WireGuard support, and a VPN accelerator that boosts your speeds even higher. Not bad, considering the apps already block ads and prevent data leaks. On that note, ProtonVPN refuses to keep any logs. It also allows you to sign up anonymously by paying in cryptocurrency or cash.
ProtonVPN apps are available for iOS, Android, MacOS, Windows, and Linux. It also provides manual setup instructions for all of the most popular router firmware.
ProtonVPN speed test data
No value | Proton VPN |
Website | protonvpn.com | Average Connection Speed - North America (USA) | 390 Mbps | Average Connection Speed - Europe (UK) | 306 Mbps | Average Connection Speed - Asia (Hong Kong) | 295 Mbps |
---|---|
Best deal (per month) | $2.99 SAVE 70% on a 2-year plan |
Pros:
- Fast enough for uninterrupted live-streaming
- Lots of advanced tools
- Doesn’t log user activity
Cons:
- Long-term plans could be a little cheaper
- Can’t stream with the free US servers
Our score:
WATCH YOUTUBE TV ANYWHERE:ProtonVPN is a fantastic option for anyone looking to stream YouTube TV. It’s ultra-fast, highly-secure, and very customizable. What’s more, all plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee, so there’s no harm in trying it out.
Read our complete ProtonVPN review.
Can I unblock YouTube TV with a free VPN service?
Free VPNs often claim to provide the same level of service as their premium rivals, but this is far from reality. These VPNs usually have much larger user bases yet fewer servers to spread the load. As a result, you can expect extremely slow browsing speeds and digital videos that stutter, have low resolution, and frequently pause to buffer. Furthermore, as YouTube is one of the largest TV streaming services in the world, it’s unlikely that a free VPN will be able to bypass its geo-restriction measures in the first place.
Maintaining an international server network is expensive, so how can free VPNs afford to operate? The truth is that they’ve found various ways to profit from their users, whether it’s by placing ads on the sites you visit or using tracking cookies to amass a detailed dossier of your online activities. VPNs are designed to increase your online privacy, but by selling your data to unknown third parties without your knowledge, free services can actually reduce it instead.
To stay as safe as possible, we recommend using a reputable VPN with a clear, user-first privacy policy.
Read more YouTube articles here:
Can I sign up for YouTube TV from abroad?
Although YouTube TV is technically only available in the US, signing up from anywhere is possible as long as you have a PayPal account. When using a credit or debit card to pay, YouTube TV requires it to be registered to a US address, but unlike many similar services, YouTube TV doesn’t check to see if you have an American PayPal account.
Don’t want payments to be taken via PayPal? There’s a third payment option, one that’s not presented to the user during registration: Google Play gift cards. Just log in to the same Google Play account you signed up to YouTube TV with, redeem a gift card, and if you have enough credit, you’ll find that this service deducts the subscription fee from your balance instead of charging your card or PayPal account.
What can I watch on YouTube TV?
YouTube TV currently offers 90+ available channels as part of its standard subscription and there are an additional 16 that can be added for a small additional payment. Below, we’ve listed some of this service’s most popular networks:
Watch the NBA on YouTube TV with a VPN
The 2023/2024 NBA season is about to kick off, and whether you’re traveling abroad for vacation, work, or studying, you’ll need a VPN to access your YouTube TV account and watch NBA games.
Basketball’s global popularity is rising fast, but catching live NBA games on local TV services isn’t always an option. Luckily, basketball enthusiasts worldwide can feast their eyes on US coverage of the NBA by using a VPN.
By connecting to a US VPN server from abroad, you can get a valid US IP address. This allows you to stream YouTube TV from anywhere in the world. This makes a VPN the perfect way to get around geo-restrictions that would usually stop you from streaming the NBA where you live.
No matter where your travels take you, a VPN is your ticket to streaming the NBA. YouTube TV provides access to NBA games on ESPN, TNT, and ABC. However, it is vital to remember that YouTube TV has already blocked many VPNs. This makes it important to stick with our recommended VPNs for streaming the NBA.
The VPNs in this guide not only have servers in the US that are optimized for streaming the NBA on YouTube TV, but they also provide the fastest VPN protocols for streaming basketball without worrying about buffering.
You need to set up a family group to share YouTube TV with family in different locations, but it’s important to follow YouTube’s rules. Here’s a quick guide:
- Family Group Basics: The person setting up the group (the family manager) must be over 18 and have a Google Account. All members should live in the same household as the manager.
- Creating the Group: Log into YouTube TV, go to your profile, then Settings > Family sharing.
1. Click on Manage, then create a Google family group.
2. Accept the terms of service and privacy policy.
3. Invite your family members (who must be 13 or older) by email. - Important Rules: Family members need to watch YouTube TV at the home location from time to time. If they don’t, they might have to log in from the home network every three months to keep access.
- Be Careful: Sharing with people in different locations is technically not allowed, and YouTube TV has been cracking down on this. If you don’t follow the rules, you could run into problems with your account.
In essence, while you can share YouTube TV with your family, everyone is supposed to live at the same address and use the service there occasionally. Sharing across different locations goes against the terms of service and risks account issues.
YouTube TV FAQs
How much does a YouTube TV subscription cost?
As of today, the monthly cost of the YouTube TV subscription plan is $72.99. YouTube TV also offers a Spanish-language plan that costs $34.99 a month.
Regarding add-ons, you can also subscribe to YouTube TV’s Sports Plus package, which includes NFL RedZone, FOX College Sports, GOLTV, Fox Soccer Plus, MAVTV Motorsports Network, TVG, and Stadium.
Do you need a Smart TV for YouTube TV?
No, you don’t need a Smart TV for YouTube TV. There are apps available for Android, iOS, Roku, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Chromecast, and game consoles like PlayStation and Xbox. Of course, you can also watch using your preferred web browser.
Do YouTube TV videos stream at 4k?
Yes, you can watch YouTube TV videos in 4K, but it comes at an additional cost. The add-on is an additional $9.99 monthly on top of the $72.99 subscription cost.
Is it legal to use a VPN for YouTube TV?
Yes. Using a VPN to access your YouTube TV account while traveling overseas is not illegal, and nobody has ever been prosecuted for doing so. This is because you are a paying subscriber, and you have every right to be able to stream your account.
That said, it is worth noting that bypassing YouTube’s geo-restrictions to stream content in an unlicensed region is technically in breach of YouTube’s Terms of Service. Thankfully, YouTube opts to deal with the problem by blocking VPN servers there rather than by canceling user accounts.
This makes it essential to subscribe to a recommended VPN that knows how to stay one step ahead of YouTube’s VPN blocks. All of our recommendations have been tested and have servers ideal for streaming YouTube TV while abroad.
Please bear in mind that nothing in this article should be taken as legal advice. So please do your own research and check the rules in the country you are in.
Will a VPN cause buffering?
Your VPN will almost always reduce your internet speeds to some degree. That said, thanks to faster protocols and better optimization, VPNs are significantly quicker than they used to be.
YouTube TV says you’ll need a download speed of at least 3 Mbps for an optimal experience, but obviously, live streams and 4K content have higher speed requirements. As long as your base connection can deliver around 30 Mbps, you shouldn’t notice any lag or buffering with the VPN active.
Still having problems? You might want to consider lowering the video quality, asking your VPN’s support team whether there’s a specific server you should use, or plugging your computer directly into the router instead of using a wireless connection.
Will YouTube know I'm using a VPN? Can I be blocked?
It is possible that YouTube could detect that you are using a VPN. However, it is highly unlikely. Generally speaking, the chances of being blocked by YouTube for using a VPN are extremely low as long as you don’t do anything to raise suspicion. For example, if you suddenly start accessing large amounts of content from multiple locations within a short period, YouTube might take notice and block your access. To avoid this, always use the same IP address when connecting to YouTube and stick to regular viewing habits. As long as your activity looks natural and consistent, there should be no issues with using a VPN on YouTube.
How do I change my local channels on YouTube TV?
Changing your local channels on YouTube TV is a simple process that can be completed in a few steps. Simply follow these instructions:
- First, click on your profile picture and then settings at the top right-hand corner of your screen.
- Next, click “Area.”
- Then click “Current Playback Area”.
Or from “Live TV” in the menu and then select “My Channels”. You will now see all available local channels in your area listed here. To add or remove any channel, click on it and you will have the option to add or remove it from your viewing list.
Can I watch YouTube TV overseas without using a VPN?
Unfortunately, this isn’t always a straightforward answer – it depends on the country where you are traveling from. In some places, like the US and UK, you may be able to access YouTube TV even outside of those countries. However, streaming services like YouTube may be blocked or require a VPN for entry into other areas. So, to ensure uninterrupted entertainment no matter where you go, we recommend using a reliable VPN service when accessing YouTube TV overseas. That way, whether you’re watching a movie in Paris or catching up on the latest news from Tokyo, you can rest assured knowing that all your favorite content is only a few clicks away!
Can I watch YouTube TV from 2 different locations?
Yes, you can watch YouTube TV from 2 different locations. However, there are some restrictions. To ensure your subscription operates within YouTube’s Terms of Service guidelines, you must check in at your home area at least every three calendar months.
You don’t have to do anything other than access a video; as long as YouTube records activity on your account during those three months, you should not be charged extra fees or experience any disruption in service.
Hello, We are building a home in Costa Rica and want to install a set up that allows us to watch US television. We already have Nord VPN installed on our iPhone and computer but don’t have it tied to our Play Station… Can we do that? Also do we need to purchase a specific router to install in the new home to assist us in accessing the US TV stations? Or is it already installed in a new “Smart TV”? My neighbor has Express VPN and told us we needed to sign up with a Utube router in order to access the US channels. Can you please explain?
Hi Larry, because there’s no way to install a VPN directly onto a PlayStation, your best bet is to install it directly onto your home router. Because there are so many different types of router available and each is slightly different, I’d recommend you ask NordVPN support to walk you through the process. On the plus side, this approach will ensure that any device on your network (including a smart TV) gets the benefits of the VPN. As far as router choice goes, there’s really no wrong answer except to say that most major VPNs support DD-WRT, Asus, and Tomato firmwares. Please feel free to reply with any more questions, I’m always happy to help. Ian
Hello Lan, I got NordVPN on my laptop, but I can not acces to YTTV , by giving any the zip code It says ” Sorry, but YouTube TV is not available in your area just yet. ” Could you please help me
Thanks and regards since Mèxico
Hi Bob, I’ve just tried this and was able to reach the payment screen with no problems. It’s possible that the server you tried had been blacklisted, or perhaps you were just unlucky with your choice of ZIP codes. I’d also recommend clearing your browser’s cookies to force the site to forget you before trying again. Thanks, Ian
Greetings! My daughter lives in Luxembourg, installed nordvpn on her iPhone and uses USA ip, can access live USA programs on youtube tv. Cannot access recorded youtube tv programs or cast anything to chromestick on her tv. Please let me know if you have advice. Thanks.
Hi Bruce, most live streaming platforms won’t let you cast to a second screen, so I think that’s probably unrelated to the VPN use. If your daughter is using the YouTube TV app, I’d recommend turning off location services and watching on the actual website instead since apps often cross-reference the user’s IP address with their GPS data. Hope this helps, Ian
I’ve disabled locations in my iphone and I am using ExpressVPN. The result is that I am able to login to Youtube TV from Europe and I am able to watch on my iphone. But when I try to cast it to my smart TV, I get the message on the TV screen “Playback error YouTube TV’s unavailable in this country.” Is there a way to get around this? Youtube TV isn’t detecting my iphone is outside the US, but somehow it detects that the TV I’m casting to is outside the US. Any suggestions?
Hi Howard, I’m not entirely sure why this would be happening. If your TV has access to a major app store, you may be able to install ExpressVPN directly on it. If not, perhaps MediaStreamer can help. Here’s a quick setup guide for Samsung TVs: https://www.expressvpn.com/support/vpn-setup/samsung-smart-tv-mediastreamer/
Thanks, Ian
I’ve tried to sign up with a paypal account but unfortunately youtube tv said: Your PayPal account country is different from your payments profile country.
And since I’m not an American citizen and get a US credit or debit card or get an American paypal account is not possible.
Is there any way to get around?
Hi Phil, it might be possible to pay using a prepaid Mastercard that’s loaded with US dollars. In many cases, though, you’ll have to call the card provider and add an address over the phone. Ian
Hi Ian – how do you unlock local channels (most networks) that require location services enabled?
Hi David – services like these are much more difficult to access from a mobile device for this exact reason. It should technically be possible to spoof your GPS location data but I haven’t personally tried this with YouTube TV. In most cases, it’d be easier to just use a desktop computer instead. Hope this helps, Ian
how do I pay for this service if I don’t have a US credit card??
Hi Mitch, you will need a US credit card to sign up. I’ve edited the article to make this more clear. Thanks, Ian
I am using ExpressVPN on a PC. I have tried all of the US servers, clearing my cache and cookies every time and was not able to watch the YouTube TV service because it detected the VPN. Any other ideas?
Hi Eduardo, it’s possible that YouTube TV is accessing your browser’s location data. Can you try installing the ExpressVPN browser extension and then watching YouTube TV? ExpressVPN has confirmed that it’s still able to unblock YouTube TV, so if this doesn’t work, let me know and I’ll try to find another solution. Thanks, Ian
Here is what I do not understand.
1. I added extensions to browsers (FF & Chrome).
2. I set ExpressVPN to Seattle & went to Google Maps.
3. I set ExpressVPN to SanFrancisco & went to Google Maps.
4. In both cases Google Maps showed U.S. Location.
5. But when I go to https://tv.youtube.com/ it detects I am using your proxy.
6. I thought VPN was supposed to make it appear I was in a specific location – but https://tv.youtube.com/ is able to tell this is not the case. Again, I am from Washington State in the U.S. Visiting Scotland for 2 weeks. Unable to watch any of the U.S. news channels that I could do were I physically in the U.S. Does this help your understanding of the VPN issues I am having?
steven@shippee.org
Hi Steven – when it comes to major services like YouTube TV, there are usually a few specific servers that you’re supposed to use. Generally, I’d recommend contacting ExpressVPN directly to find out which ones work. That said, I’m also in Scotland, and at the moment, the New Jersey server appears to be working. Hope this helps (and enjoy your vacation), Ian
Thank you kind Ian –
New Jersey works for me.
I always used Seattle from within different locations when in the U.S. – never dawned on me to jump over to the east coast – so I tried San Francisco after Seattle – to no avail.
New Jersey/New York work.
Thanks for saving a news junkie’s bacon.
Hi, I have had ExpressVPN on my router and my mobile devices but for whatever reason it YouTube tv detects the vpn and blocks it on mobile devices. Worse yet periodically asks you to update the area and will not allow you to do anything. Any suggestions?
Hi Fred, unfortunately our phones often give websites other ways to track us. While your IP address might be from America, YouTube TV might be able to see from your phone’s GPS that you’re actually in another country. I’d recommend contacting ExpressVPN directly to confirm whether or not this is the case and to see if there’s a workaround. Hope this helps, Ian
I fear this is not correct… YouTube TV does recognize now the use of VPN networks and blocks the viewing. I have used it for a month in Switzerland, but now they changed something! I tried with HMA and NordVPN – both were recognized by YouTube TV.
Not sure how to solve the issue now…
Hey Tim, I’ve just contacted NordVPN to make sure – they say the service still unblocks YouTube TV without any issues. I think part of your problem might be that YouTube detected HMA and stored a cookie on your device saying so. Can you try clearing your cache and cookies, then trying NordVPN again? If this still doesn’t work, customer support should be able to help you out. Thanks, Ian
Hi Ian, I installed NordVPN on my IPhone but I noticed that the YouTube TV app does not recognize the VPN location and still works on my home location. Do you know how can I change that?
Hi Vicente, can you try closing the YouTube TV app, clearing its cache and restarting for me? As far as I know, NordVPN should still work. Thanks, Ian
I am using Astrill. I used to be able to connect but now I cannot. My husband, using the same router, can. Youtube TV senses my proxy/vpn. I cannot get around it. Any ideas? I have worked with the Astrill agents to no avail.
Hi Eileen, there are a few different reasons why this might be happening. The good news is that we can rule out the router entirely. Further, since every Astrill user on a specific server has the same IP address, we know that’s not the problem either. Are you and your husband using the same kind of device? I ask because sometimes mobile apps check your location via GPS as well as your IP address, and VPNs don’t change your GPS location. Assuming you’re both using a PC – make sure you use the same browser as your husband, and try clearing its cache and cookies. Thanks, Ian