Best VPNs for YouTube That Work Everywhere in 2024

YouTube has become the world’s greatest repository for user-generated and commercial video. Unfortunately, it’s not possible to access YouTube everywhere. In some countries, like China, YouTube is completely censored. Some content on YouTube is restricted to certain countries due to content licensing agreements, or simply due to the uploader’s preference.

When you try to access a geo-locked video on YouTube when you’re traveling abroad, you might get one of the following frustrating error messages:

• “The uploader has not made this video available in your country”
• “This video is not available in your country”

We’ve researched extensively and tested rigorously, understanding the frustration when denied access to content that matters to you. Our findings? A robust solution called a VPN or a Virtual Private Network. This tool doesn’t just encrypt your online presence; it catapults your connection to a server in the country of your preference, granting you a fresh IP address. This is important because platforms like YouTube peg your accessibility based on this IP address. You can decide your virtual location with a VPN, unlocking all YouTube content worldwide.

Best VPNs for YouTube

We cover each VPN in detail, but if you haven’t got time to get through this whole piece, here is a summary list of the best VPNs for YouTube:

1. NordVPN: Our top choice for YouTube. Has a large network of servers able to unblock most popular streaming sites. Apps are easy to use and secure. 30-day money-back guarantee.
   TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Basic) works perfectly for Youtube.
2. Surfshark: Hard to beat budget VPN with generally decent speeds, powerful security features, and no connection limit, Surfshark is an excellent way to stream YouTube safely.
3. IPVanish: Speedy enough for watching YouTube without buffering and in HD. Apps are secure and privacy is paramount.
4. ExpressVPN: Superfast servers are ideal for streaming in UHD. Extensive list of server locations that have no issues unblocking most popular geo-restricted sites.
5. CyberGhost: Value provider with over 5,700 servers worldwide. Fast speeds during testing. 45-day money-back guarantee.
6. PrivateVPN: A highly reliable VPN with fast servers in 63 countries to access YouTube anywhere. Apps for all devices.
7. PureVPN: A fantastic option for more advanced users. Includes a built-in ad-blocker and excels at accessing stubborn streaming platforms.
8. ProtonVPN: Fast and security-conscious provider that can help you stream YouTube from just about anywhere in the world.

To ensure a high-quality stream that can unblock the videos you want to watch, we strongly recommend a paid VPN service. We’ve curated a list of the best VPNs for YouTube based on the following criteria:

• Fast download speeds for HD and even UHD streaming without buffering
• A large international network of servers so you can unblock anything
• Strong security and maximum privacy
• Simple and responsive apps for desktop and mobile

The best VPNs for YouTube – Our hands-on review

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

1. NordVPN

Nov 2024 Unblocks YouTubeTested Nov 2024

NordVPN operates more than 8,200 servers in 111 countries. A handful are specifically optimized for “ultra-fast streaming”, meaning you can watch HD and even UHD 4K video on YouTube. The company maintains a strict no-logs policy and utilizes unbreakable encryption.

Apps for Windows, MacOS, iOS, and Android let you easily choose a location from a map or a list of countries. NordVPN is one of the best values on offer, allowing up to six simultaneous connections on a single basic subscription.

BEST VPN FOR YOUTUBE:NordVPN is our #1 choice. Works well for streaming and torrenting. Allows up to 10 simultaneous devices. Strong on security and keeps no logs. Includdes a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can try it risk-free.

Read our full NordVPN review.

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2. Surfshark

unblocks youtubeTested Nov 2024

Surfshark has more than 3,200 servers in 65+ countries, so you shouldn’t have any problems getting a high-speed, low-latency connection. As well as unblocking YouTube, this service lets you use platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video from abroad. Your traffic is protected using a host of advanced security features including 256-bit encryption and a no-logging policy. Currently, users can pay in Bitcoin, Ripple, or Ethereum.

Surfshark provides apps for iOS, MacOS, Android, Windows, and Linux. Manual installation is required for use with home routers. Users can secure every device they own simultaneously since there’s no connection limit.

Read our full review of Surfshark here.

BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark is an affordable way to stream safely. Boasts cutting-edge security features and a no-logs policy. It also offers decent speeds, a 30-day money-back guarantee, and the ability to protect all of your devices at once.

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3. IPVanish

Unblocks YouTubeTested Nov 2024

IPVanish owns and operates its own network of more than 2000 servers in over 75 global city locations. It’s quick and stable connections allow you to binge-watch YouTube without any dropped connections or buffering. Apps for Windows, MacOS, iOS, and Android can automatically select the best server in your preferred location, guaranteeing a solid connection. IPVanish also has a great interface for devices that use remote controls instead of keyboards and mice, such as the Amazon Fire TV Stick. You can connect as many devices as you like on a single subscription. IPVanish records no logs and uses military-grade encryption.

GREAT CHOICE FOR YOUTUBE:IPVanish is ideal for families that need simultaneous connections. Works well with YouTube. Generally solid for torrenters, Kodi users, but look elsewhere if you live in China or want to unblock Netflix. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full IPVanish review.

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4. ExpressVPN

Unblocks YouTubeTested Nov 2024

ExpressVPN operates more than 3,000 servers in 94 countries. Every server is optimized for maximum speed. Connections are protected with cutting-edge security standards, including 256-bit AES encryption and perfect forward secrecy.

The apps, available for Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, and Linux are easy enough even for children to use. ExpressVPN recently added a Chrome browser extension as well, so you can quickly set up an encrypted proxy to the server right in your browser that unblocks YouTube and much, much more.

GOOD ALL-ROUNDER:ExpressVPN is a strong all-rounder. It has a vast server network that is optimized for high-speed connections. It is Hard to beat on privacy and security. All plans come with a 30-day no-quibbles money-back guarantee.

Read our full ExpressVPN review.

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5. CyberGhost

unblocks youtubeTested Nov 2024

CyberGhost has over 7000 servers in 89+ countries, and reliably unblocks major platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, so YouTube doesn’t pose much of a problem. Speeds are high enough to stream 4K video with no noticeable buffering. CyberGhost doesn’t keep logs of your activities and comes with strong security features including 256-bit encryption, a built-in ad-blocker, a malware-scanner, and a kill switch. Apps are available for iOS, Android, MacOS, Linux, and Windows.

GOOD VALUE OPTION:CyberGhost is an affordable, privacy-conscious VPN that’s ideal for unblocking YouTube, thanks to its high speeds, advanced security features, and strong unblocking ability. There’s even a 45-day money-back guarantee.

Check out our comprehensive CyberGhost review for more details.

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6. PrivateVPN

Unblocks YouTubeTested Nov 2024

PrivateVPN is a highly-popular provider based in Sweden. True to its branding, PrivateVPN provides super-secure connections in 63 countries that allow you to torrent and surf the web without being tracked.

Apps are available for all platforms, and they provide a wealth of advanced security features. It is also extremely fast, which makes it great for gaming or streaming. Plus, this VPN works to access multiple Netflix regions, Hulu, HBO Max, Disney+, and just about anything else you can think of.

Those who want a VPN for all their devices will be happy that you can use it up to 5 devices simultaneously. And you can test it to unblock YouTube or anything else that takes your fancy by using its 30-day money-back guarantee.

STRONG ON PRIVACY:PrivateVPN is quick for doing data-intensive tasks like gaming or streaming on YouTube.  Watertight no logs policy. Servers in 63+ countries. Allows torrenting throughout its network. Kill-switch and obfuscation. Perfect for streaming Netflix. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full PrivateVPN review.

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7. PureVPN

Unblocks YouTubeTested Nov 2024

PureVPN takes the stress out of watching YouTube at work or in places like China. Better still, it works with plenty of other popular apps too including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Paramount+. There are more than 6,000 servers to choose from and average speeds of more than 390 Mbps; in other words, users can get a high-speed, low-latency connection from just about anywhere. Each subscription comes with a 10 device limit and access to a 24/7 live chat help desk.

The biggest question is always “can this VPN keep you safe?”. You have nothing to worry about with PureVPN, though: it boasts uncrackable encryption, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and a kill switch that stops sending data anytime your connection drops. There’s also a tracker-blocker but unfortunately this isn’t included with the standard plan. This provider takes your privacy seriously, as evidenced by its no-logging policy and extensive audit history. That said, ideally it would add support for anonymous payment methods in the future.

PureVPN has its own apps for Android, iOS, Windows, Linux, and MacOS. It works with a wide range of routers as well, but you’ll have to follow manual setup instructions for these.

ACCESS YOUTUBE ANYWHERE:PureVPN is very easy to use, faster than many of its rivals, and highly secure. Ideal for streaming YouTube in the office or abroad.

Read our full PureVPN review.

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8. ProtonVPN

Unblocks YouTubeTested Nov 2024

ProtonVPN can technically help you stream YouTube securely for free but we recommend upgrading to a paid plan sooner rather than later. Doing so grants access to more than 3,800 servers in 85 countries and removes the speed limit, instantly improving your viewing experience. You’ll also be able to access other popular platforms like Netflix, which isn’t possible on the free plan. With a generous 10-connection limit and 24/7 customer support over live chat, ProtonVPN is a great way to watch your favorite content, wherever you go.

Ever feel like you spend more time skipping ads than watching videos? That won’t be a problem anymore, since ProtonVPN blocks common annoyances like ads and trackers automatically. It also supports split tunneling, so that you can access content from multiple regions simultaneously. Naturally, it uses unbeatable encryption, leak protection, and a kill switch to keep your activities hidden from snoopers, plus there’s a proven no-logs policy in place for extra peace of mind.

ProtonVPN offers apps for Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. Its website also provides detailed setup guides in case you’d prefer to install it on your router.

IDEAL FOR STREAMING:ProtonVPN has the speed, security, and reliability you’ll need to stream safely. Works flawlessly with YouTube, Hulu, and more.

Read our complete ProtonVPN review.

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Finding the best VPNs for YouTube: our methodology

There are many factors to consider when choosing a VPN. Indeed, there are many that are particularly relevant when it comes to using a VPN with YouTube (such as server speed for streaming). Our methodology took the following into consideration:

• Servers worldwide: YouTube is available in most countries worldwide. However, there are a handful of countries that have banned the video platform. This includes China. Having access to servers worldwide means you can connect to one in a country in which YouTube is available and bypass restrictions. Furthermore, you can select one that is closer to your physical location for faster streaming speeds.
• Speed: Of course, one of the most important factors to consider is speed. Only the fastest VPNs allow you to stream in high definition and even 4K without lag or buffering. Our speed tests identified these VPNs, all of which offer unlimited bandwidth. As such, you should have no issues streaming YouTube content.
• Unblocking: You may be trying to access YouTube from a country in which it’s banned. Of course, there may be other content you wish to unblock, be it a streaming service such as Netflix or your online banking account. Whatever the case, this requires a VPN with strong unblocking ability such as those covered in this post.
• Security: It’s important to know that some VPNs lack essential security features and may leave you vulnerable to security threats. This is why we look for VPNs that offer encryption, a kill switch, and protection from DNS leaks. In some cases, you’ll find extras such as an ad blocker or password manager for even better protection.
• Privacy: While many VPNs claim that they don’t keep logs, this isn’t always true. To separate fact from fiction, we analyzed 140 VPN logging policies. Most of the best VPNs for YouTube even let you sign up and pay for your subscription anonymously (you can do this by using a burner email account and paying in Bitcoin).
• Ease of use: Some VPN apps are simply better than others. Connecting to a server or changing up your settings needn’t take more than a few seconds. Our hands-on testing of VPN apps ensures that only the most user-friendly are selected. Furthermore, they all include live chat and email support, 24 hours a day.
• Value for money: Despite failing to offer some of the above, many VPNs work out more expensive than the best VPNs for YouTube! Of course, it helps that we provide VPN discount coupons so you can get an even better deal with the VPNs covered in this post. All of them offer money-back guarantees so you can try them risk-free.

Want to know more about how we test VPNs? Take a look at our post regarding our VPN testing methodology which goes into even further depth on this.

Avoid “free” VPNs

A quick search on Google or your device’s app store will likely turn up a litany of so called “free” VPN services. While these may seem enticing, we strongly discourage using them without a thorough examination of their privacy policies and terms and conditions.

Many of these VPNs log your traffic, sell the data to advertisers, and in some cases even inject advertisements into your browser. Some carry malware payloads that can infect your device.

Most free VPNs have a much more limited selection of servers, cap your downloads, and limit bandwidth. You may have to wait in a queue to connect.

For these reasons, we strongly recommend one of the paid options above, all of which offer a money-back guarantee, free trial, or both.

How to use a VPN for YouTube

VPNs sound very complicated, but they’re actually easy to set-up. Never used a VPN before? We’ll walk you through the simple steps below.

Here’s how to use a VPN for YouTube:

1. Decide which VPN you’d like to use. We recommend NordVPN.
2. Download the VPN software, making sure to get the right version for your device’s operating system.
3. Connect to a server in the country the content you want to watch is available in.
4. Open YouTube and find the video you want to watch.
5. Try playing a video. Any error messages should disappear and the content should load almost immediately. If not, try clearing your cookies and reloading the page.

Watch paid video on YouTube with a VPN

YouTube is even more limited when it comes to paid content, such as YouTube Red, paid videos, and paid channels. YouTube Red is only available in the following countries:

• Australia
• Korea
• Mexico
• New Zealand
• The United States

Note that you will need a US credit card or Paypal account to subscribe to YouTube Red. If you’re a subscriber, just connect your VPN to one of those countries to access Red content.

Paid videos include rentals and purchases of movies and TV shows directly from YouTube and from individual uploaders. Uploaders can usually set their own terms, so the geographic restrictions vary widely.

Not only can you get access to content not available in the country you’re visiting with a VPN, but you might also find that other countries offer a better deal. For example, Star Trek: Beyond costs $14.99 in the US, but only 11.99 Euros ($13.42) in Europe. If you buy or rent enough movies and TV shows, a VPN can easily pay for itself.

How to update the current playback area on YouTube

To update the current playback area on YouTube TV, follow these straightforward steps –

First, open the YouTube TV app on your smart TV or any compatible device. Click on your profile picture, usually in the screen’s top-right corner, to access your account settings. From there, select “Settings” and then choose the “Area” option. You should see an option labeled “Current Playback Area”; click “Update” next to it.

Next, you must verify your location to ensure the settings update correctly. On your mobile device, open a web browser and go to tv.youtube.com/verify. This page will ask for permission to use your device’s location status. Grant this permission to proceed. The site will verify your location based on your device’s GPS or IP address. If YouTube TV detects that you are outside your home area, make sure that location permissions are enabled on your device and follow any on-screen prompts to complete the verification process.

VPN for YouTube FAQ