How to watch YouTube videos blocked in your country with a VPN

Most people across the globe have no issues accessing YouTube, except in the few countries where the platform is blocked, such as China and North Korea. But no matter what country you’re in, some YouTube content is geo-restricted, so you can only watch it if you’re in the right region. Luckily, there’s an easy way around both of these restrictions. In this article, we’ll show you how to bypass YouTube regional blocks with a VPN.

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts all of your web traffic and sends it through a secondary server in a location of your choosing. Then, your real IP address is replaced with one from that location. For example, if you’re traveling in the UK and connect to a US VPN server, it will appear to YouTube that you’re located in the US, giving you access to otherwise blocked content. The encryption aspect means that no snoopers, such as network administrators, internet service providers, or hackers, can see what you’re doing online.

In this article, we’ll explain how to choose the right VPN for the job, list some of the best providers, and explain how to use them to access YouTube from anywhere. Don’t have time to read the whole article? Here’s a quick summary.

Best VPNs to change YouTube country and access blocked content:

1. NordVPN: The best VPN for YouTube and other streaming sites. Superfast VPN with a large network and excellent unblocking abilities. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.
   TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for YouTube.
2. Surfshark: Best budget option for bypassing YouTube region blocks. A reliable VPN with no connection limit and servers in 100+ countries.
3. IPVanish: Fast enough for watching YouTube without buffering and in HD. Apps are secure, and privacy is paramount.
4. ExpressVPN: Fast, reliable, and secure. Easily bypasses restrictions on YouTube and other sites. 24/7 live customer support.
5. CyberGhost: An ever-expanding VPN that’s fast and very easy to use. Huge network of global servers in 100+ countries.
6. PrivateVPN: Unblocks tons of streaming sites, including YouTube, and keeps no logs. Allows up to 10 simultaneous connections.
7. PureVPN: Fast wireGuard protocol and apps for all platforms. 31-day money-back guarantee to try the VPN.
8. ProtonVPN: Works with popular streaming services from around the world. Strong AES encryption and a kill switch.

How to watch a YouTube video not available in your country

Below is a step-by-step guide to bypassing YouTube region blocks with a VPN. It’s quick and easy to do, even if you’ve never used a VPN before.

Here’s how to watch blocked YouTube videos in your country:

1. Select a suitable VPN provider and subscribe. We recommend NordVPN.
2. Download the correct VPN client or app for your device. Desktop clients are available on the VPN provider’s website, and iOS and Android apps can be downloaded from their respective app stores.
3. Connect to a server in the appropriate country. For example, if you’re trying to unblock US content, connect to a US server to gain a US IP address.
4. Navigate to the video you want to watch and enjoy!
5. If you run into issues, try clearing your browser’s cache and cookies and reloading the page. If you’re still unable to watch, check with your VPN’s customer support team, as there may be specific servers you need to use for unblocking YouTube.

How we selected the top YouTube VPNs

When you’re choosing a YouTube VPN, you need to consider various factors, such as whether it’s suitable for streaming and the quality of the customer support. We based our selection of the best VPNs for YouTube on the following criteria:

• Unblocks YouTube from anywhere
• Has a large selection of global servers
• Pegs fast speeds for streaming HD video
• Uses strong encryption
• Keep no logs of user-identifying data
• Provides 24/7 customer support

This is just an overview, but you can read more about how we test and rank the VPNs we recommend in our methodology section below. For now, let’s take a look at the ones that made the cut. 

The best VPNs for YouTube: at a glance

We’ve 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.

Best VPNs to bypass YouTube region blocks

At Comparitech, we aim to provide the most accurate and helpful VPN reviews possible. In order to do that, our team personally uses each VPN, putting them through a variety of real-world performance and security tests. The following reviews are based on those first-hand experiences. 

Here is our list of the best VPNs to watch YouTube videos blocked in your country:

1. NordVPN

Dec 2024 unblocks youtubeTested Dec 2024

NordVPN is our top pick for a YouTube VPN. This provider operates a very large network of more than 6,200 servers in 90+ countries and is one of the few VPNs that work in China. It outperformed all other VPNs in our speed tests. Aside from YouTube, NordVPN can help you securely access lots of geo-restricted sites, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer.

This true no-logs provider protects your information with military-grade encryption, a kill switch, and leak protection. Extras include automatic wifi protection and servers optimized for double VPN and P2P. You can use NordVPN on up to 10 devices at a time, and apps are available for Windows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, and Android. Some routers are configurable as well.

NordVPN speed test data

BEST VPN FOR YOUTUBE:NordVPN is our first pick. It easily unblocks YouTube, enables secure access to a ton of sites, and comes with lots of security extras. A 30-day money-back guarantee is included making this a risk-free option.

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

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2. Surfshark

unblocks youtubeTested Dec 2024

Surfshark is budget-friendly yet one of the best VPNs we’ve come across in terms of streaming ability. It works with YouTube as well as multiple Netflix catalogs, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu. Surfshark operates a network of over 3,200 servers in more than 100 countries and even works in China. Speeds are great, making streaming a breeze.

This VPN packs the standard security features of its top competitors, along with extras, including automatic Wi-Fi protection and split tunneling. No logs are maintained. A big perk of a Surfshark subscription is the ability to connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously. There are apps for Android, iOS, Linux, MacOS, and Windows, and you can configure the VPN to some routers.

Surfshark speed test data

BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark can provide access to YouTube and lots of other platforms. It’s fast and reliable and keeps no logs. This VPN includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our in-depth Surfshark review here, or check out our video review instead.

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3. IPVanish

unblocks youtubeTested Dec 2024

IPVanish has a loyal following of users utilizing its network of over 2,000 servers. This provider works with multiple sites, including YouTube, as well as Netflix, and several others. IPVanish is particularly popular with torrenters and Kodi users. It has fast speeds and provides an Android APK that you can download directly to your device.

Security features include 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and protection against leaks. IPVanish maintains no traffic or connection logs. It offers unlimited simultaneous connections under one plan. Apps are available for Windows, MacOS, iOS, and Android, and you can configure the VPN with Linux and certain routers.

IPVanish speed test data

FAST AND SECURE:IPVanish allows unlimited connections and will let you stream as much YouTube as you like. Plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

See our full review of IPVanish here, or watch our video review instead.

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4. ExpressVPN

unblocks youtubeTested Dec 2024

ExpressVPN has great speeds and a network of more than 3,000 servers spanning 100+ countries. This VPN imposes no data caps or bandwidth limits, meaning you can stream as much as you like. It works reliably in China, so you can even watch YouTube while visiting the country. Plus, ExpressVPN will enable you to secure access to tough-to-crack sites like Netflix US and UK, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu.

ExpressVPN packs all the security features you need, including strong encryption, leak protection, and a kill switch (dubbed a “network lock”). It doesn’t keep logs of any information that could be used to identify you. This provider is one of the best VPNs for torrenting and accepts Bitcoin payments.

Apps are available for Linux, Windows, MacOS, iOS, and Android. ExpressVPN is compatible with select routers and even has its own custom router firmware. Up to eight devices can be connected at one time.

ExpressVPN speed test data

FAST AND SECURE:ExpressVPN is a good choice for bypassing YouTube region blocks. It’s fast, secure, and reliable and comes with excellent customer support. ExpressVPN plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of ExpressVPN.

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5. CyberGhost

unblocks youtubeTested Dec 2024

CyberGhost’s server network is ever-growing, and there are now more than 10,000 in 100+ countries. Speeds are plenty fast enough for streaming, and there are no limits on data or bandwidth. Within CyberGhost’s app, select servers are labeled with the streaming services they are optimized for, including YouTube, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and more.

CyberGhost is another no-logs provider that has your back when it comes to security. 256-bit encryption is coupled with perfect forward secrecy, and a kill switch and leak protection are built-in. Desktop clients are available for Windows and MacOS, and mobile apps for iOS and Android. CyberGhost is configurable with Linux and some routers. Plans come with a seven-device limit and a 45-day money-back guarantee.

CyberGhost speed test data

STRONG ALL-ROUNDER:CyberGhost apps are easy to get started with and give you access to a huge network of fast and reliable servers. This provider offers a 45-day money-back guarantee.

Read our in-depth review of CyberGhost.

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6. PrivateVPN

unblocks youtubeTested Dec 2024

PrivateVPN is another provider with excellent versatility and fast speeds to boot. This small VPN consistently performs well in streaming tests, securely accessing YouTube, Netflix, Hulu, and more. Although it only has around 200 servers, these are strategically placed in 60+ countries, so you get a good choice of locations. PrivateVPN also works in China.

This privacy-focused provider keeps no records of user data, so your online activity can’t be exposed. Security features include strong encryption, a kill switch (Windows only), and protection against leaks. PrivateVPN offers apps for most major operating systems: Windows, MacOS, iOS, and Android. It’s compatible with Linux and select routers via manual configuration.

PrivateVPN speed test data

BYPASS RESTRICTIONS:PrivateVPN is a small yet robust VPN with many of the most important features you get with a larger provider. All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Delve into our full review of PrivateVPN.

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7 PureVPN

unblocks youtubeTested Dec 2024

If you are on a budget, PureVPN is going to be an extremely attractive option for streamign YouTube videos that aren’t available where you live. You can also use it to unblock YouTube at work or on campus without being tracked, and it starts at just $1.96 per month, which is a bargain.

Servers are available in over 65 countries, meaning PureVPN works to get an IP address worldwide – crucial for watching YouTube content restricted in your region. The VPN is fast thanks to its WireGuard protocol, which, in our tests, delivered download speeds of 400 Mbps.

PureVPN isn’t just limited to YouTube; it also works with Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Prime Video, and British TV services like ITVX and BBC iPlayer. This makes it versatile for accessing a wide range of international streaming services.

In terms of security, PureVPN includes AES encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak prevention. This ensures your privacy when accessing YouTube videos that are restricted by the government. The VPN also has a strict no-logs policy that has been independently audited.

While customer support is very slow, the good news is that considering the low cost it does have real live chat agents rather than a bot. You can try the VPN risk-free by making use of its 31-day money-back guarantee. The best cheap VPN for YouTube streaming.

PureVPN speed test data

LOW COST:PureVPN is a low-cost VPN that works to get an IP address in over 65 countries. Fast speeds for streaming on YouTube, Netflix US, or any other service that interests you. Robust privacy allows you to access YouTube at work or on campus if it is blocked. Fast wireGuard protocol and apps for all platforms. 31-day money-back guarantee to try the VPN.

Find out more in our PureVPN review.

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8 ProtonVPN

unblocks youtubeTested Dec 2024

ProtonVPN is highly popular with advanced users in search of a VPN that is packed with useful features. It stands out as an exceptional option for YouTube, thanks to its large network of servers that can help you bypass local blocks to access restricted videos.

Developed in Switzerland by the Proton Mail team, the VPN is built around highly secure privacy practices, including a strict no-logs policy that has been independently verified. The VPN is particularly beneficial for YouTube TV users who prioritize privacy, perfect for bypassing censored videos in restrictive countries.

The VPN’s applications are loaded with advanced features such as AES encryption, split tunneling, and Tor over VPN, it also has fast WireGuard connections for uninterrupted streaming on YouTube TV.

Priced affordably on the monthly plans, ProtonVPN is ideal for short-term users who need a VPN on vacation or for work. However, the longer plans aren’t as cheap as our other options. The inclusion of obfuscation and multi-hop connections ensures added protection when streaming in countries with strong censorship.

If you want to test the VPN to see whether you need all its features, you can make use of its money-back guarantee. Finally, it is excellent for torrenting thanks to its split tunneling and port forwarding features.

ProtonVPN speed test data

ADVANCED AND SECURE:ProtonVPN is an impressive, high-quality VPN with many security features. It is excellent for bypassing YouTube blocks. A 1-month subscription costs just $9.99, which is great for vacations. Works with popular streaming services from around the world. Strong AES encryption and a kill switch. Easy to use on all devices. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Find out more in our ProtonVPN review.

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YouTube VPN testing methodology

With hundreds of consumer-facing VPNs available on the market, it can be extremely hard to tell which service is worth your time (and money). Many unscrupulous VPNs lie about the level of protection they provide or make false claims about their speeds and features. This can make the experience of getting a VPN confusing and frustrating.

At Comparitech, we use a carefully devised VPN testing methodology to review dozens of market-leading VPNs. This allows us to directly compare the world’s leading providers to find the very best for a specific purpose. Below, we have included some of the important features we looked for when testing VPNs for YouTube:

• Fast speeds for streaming: We run speed tests on all the VPNs we recommend, ensuring that they provide the performance you need to stream in HD on YouTube and other popular streaming platforms. We also check that the VPN provides fast VPN protocols suitable for data-intensive tasks such as torrenting and video conferencing.
• Global server network: We have recommended VPN services that have a wide choice of servers in the US, Europe, Asia, and elsewhere in the world to ensure you can always get the best speed and unblock as many international services as possible. All of our recommendations have servers in over 50 countries.
• Apps for all platforms: For a VPN to be useful, you must be able to install it on all your devices. Our recommended VPNs for YouTube will let you stream on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android devices. Plus, our recommendations let you install and use the VPN on multiple devices simultaneously. Some even allow unlimited connections to let you share your account with friends and family.
• Advanced features: Not all VPNs provide a wide choice of features. To give you the best experience possible, we look for VPNs that provide lots of useful features at the best possible price point. We look for obfuscation, split tunneling, port forwarding, multi-hop connections, P2P optimized servers, ad blocking, malware protection, Smart DNS, and other advanced VPN features.
• Strong security: For a VPN to protect your digital footprint and prevent online tracking and surveillance, it must have robust security features. We test for IP, DNS, and WebRTC leaks to check that the VPN is providing the privacy levels it claims. We also look under the hood for robust VPN protocols such as OpenVPN with well-implemented AES encryption and a kill switch.
• Reliable customer care: All of our recommendations go the extra mile to help their users. They have guides and FAQs on their website to help with using and setting up the VPN. They also have live chat and email support to let you ask questions whenever you need to.

Using a free VPN to bypass YouTube region blocks

A free VPN isn’t a good idea for most use cases, and definitely not for this one. These services aren’t suitable for streaming as they regularly suffer from slow, laggy connections that may drop at any time. This means you’ll have an extremely poor streaming experience if you even get to stream anything at all.

Another issue is the low data and bandwidth limits imposed by free VPN services. You’ll only be able to watch a snippet of content before you reach your cap, and then you’ll have to wait until the next day or even next month before you can stream more.

Free VPNs come with other problems, too, including their shady business tactics. While many create a revenue stream by serving you a ton of ads, others will collect your information, including browsing data, for sale to advertisers. Security is a concern, too, as most free VPNs don’t use nearly the same level of encryption as their paid counterparts do.

We recommend skipping these altogether and opting for a reliable VPN provider that delivers on all fronts. However, if you’re dead set on only using a free VPN for YouTube here are some tips on doing so safely.

How to bypass YouTube blocks with a VPN for free:

• Opt for a quality VPN that offers a free trial. These range from 1 – 7 days, so can work to access something specific or cover you for a weekend away.
• Make the most of the money-back guarantees of the providers we’ve listed here. They all have them, and they last up to 45 days, so they should be enough to cover you for a vacation or short work trip. You will have to pay upfront, but if you’re not 100% happy with the service, you can claim a full refund. Check out our step-by-step guide to claiming a full refund from NordVPN to see how simple it is.

Using a VPN with YouTube: FAQs