Ever tried to stream your favorite show on Roku, only to be stopped by those annoying geo-restrictions? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! The simplest way to bypass these blocks is by using a Roku VPN. With the right VPN, you can watch whatever you want, wherever you are.
But how do you choose the best free VPN for Roku? And what’s the easiest way to set it up on your device? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top Roku VPN options, show you how to install them, and help you find the perfect fit. Whether you’re after faster speeds, stronger security, or more freedom, we’ve got all the tips you need!
How to Connect to Roku VPN?
You’ll need to follow several simple steps on how to get VPN on Roku:
- Connect a VPN to your network by configuring it on your router. Use a virtual router on your computer.
- Plug in your Roku device and connect it with the router or virtual VPN router.
- When you connect to the Roku device, make your settings corresponding to your VPN server’s location.
- When ready with the VPN-equipped network, begin streaming content on Roku.
The Best Roku VPNs – Our Detailed List:
Some parameters must be considered when selecting the Roku VPN, including speed, number of servers, interface, and compatibility with the Roku media player. Further, the section below describes the best three VPN services for Roku.
ExpressVPN – High-Speed Streaming VPN for Roku
Features:
- Blazing Fast Speeds: Ideal for HD and 4K streaming without buffering.
- Global Server Network: 3,000+ servers in 105 countries.
- Top-Notch Security: Military-grade encryption with no-log policy.
- User-Friendly Apps: These are available on various platforms, including routers.
ExpressVPN is undoubtedly the top choice for Roku TV VPN due to its speed and security. Regarding streaming, you can enjoy ExpressVPN’s coverage of over 3,000 servers in 105 different countries. You don’t have to end up frustrated watching your favorite program because of buffering.
This VPN makes it suitable for use while streaming content. You can watch it through Peacock TV, Lifetime, Crackle, or USA Network in high definition.
ExpressVPN is praised for its high-level security with military-grade encryption and a no-log policy, which means you will be safe online. Moreover, it is the best VPNs for torrenting as it is fast and has P2P servers. Moreover, Smart DNS is the best feature for Roku users because it enables unblocking content easily from anywhere.
ExpressVPN does not require many installations in your router, and you can protect all your devices, including Roku, in your home. The 24/7 live chat support ensures you have help whenever needed, making ExpressVPN a reliable and user-friendly option for anyone looking to enhance their Roku streaming experience.
For more insights, you can read the ExpressVPN review.
Pros:
- 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Supports routers for direct Roku VPN setup.
- Excellent customer support is available 24/7.
Cons:
- Slightly higher price compared to other VPNs.
Best ExpressVPN Servers for Roku:
- For unblocking US Streaming Services: New Jersey 1.
- For unblocking UK Streaming Services: London.
Surfshark – Affordable VPN for Roku
Features:
- Unlimited Device Connections: Use on as many devices as you want.
- Camouflage Mode: Hides your VPN usage even from your ISP.
- Wide Server Range: 3,200+ servers in 100 countries.
- NoBorders Mode: Allows you to use Surfshark in restrictive regions which makes it the best VPN for Expats.
For consumers who wish to connect several devices simultaneously at cheap rates, the best bet is Surfshark. Having a relatively friendly pricing model, Surfshark has many compelling features that will be useful if you use Roku devices. Surfshark has more than 3,200 servers in 100 countries, so you are likely to have several choices when accessing content from different areas of the world for uninterrupted streaming.
A unique feature should be noted here, namely Camouflage Mode; with its help, VPN traffic looks like classic Internet traffic, which means that not only third parties but even the ISP will be unable to identify a user’s VPN usage. Besides that, the company offers NoBorders mode that enables people to overcome internet censorship, which means that your Roku will have access to the content of any country.
For Roku users, the simplest way of unblocking content from streaming services when using Surfshark is via the Smart DNS. Also, the feature of unlimited connection is available at Surfshark, which allows connecting all your devices at no additional cost, which is especially beneficial for families or users with many devices.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly pricing.
- Unlimited simultaneous connections.
- Robust security features.
Cons:
- Some servers may be slower compared to competitors.
Best Surfshark Servers for Roku:
- For unblocking US Streaming Services: Los Angeles.
- For unblocking UK Streaming Services: Manchester.
NordVPN – Largest Server Network VPN
Features:
- Advanced Security Protocols: Supports NordLynx, an enhanced WireGuard protocol.
- Massive Server Fleet: 5,500+ servers in 60 countries.
- SmartPlay Technology: Seamless access to geo-blocked content.
- Multi-Platform Support: Compatible with various devices, including routers.
NordVPN is a powerhouse for balancing speed and security, making it an excellent choice for Roku users. Irrespective of the options on content streaming, you have an extensive range of options from NordVPN, which has a server base of over 5,500 in 60 countries. Thanks to its NordLynx protocol, an upgraded version of WireGuard, you can freely stream high-quality content without experiencing buffering, which is perfect for Roku.
Nevertheless, it is essential to state that NordVPN has always attracted user’ attention by its maximum speed and vital security attributes. To that end, it uses military-grade encryption, has a no-logs policy, and CyberSec to ensure you won’t encounter ads or malware. For Roku users, the SmartPlay function is one of the most important features that allows the viewer to watch programs that are blocked in the user’s country.
Setting up NordVPN on your router protects your entire home network, including your Roku. With 24/7 customer support and a user-friendly interface, NordVPN is an excellent choice for advanced users looking to enhance their Roku streaming experience with top-tier security and speed.
Pros:
- Smart DNS feature for Roku compatibility.
- Strong encryption and privacy features.
- 30-day money-back guarantee.
Cons:
- The desktop app can be slightly complicated for beginners.
Best NordVPN Servers for Roku:
- For unblocking US Streaming Services: Chicago.
- For unblocking UK Streaming Services: Glasgow.
Comparison of the Best Roku VPNs
Let’s check out the comparison and benefits of VPN:
VPN | Features | Price | Simultaneous Connections | Server Locations | Live Chat Support |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
ExpressVPN | High-speed streaming, Smart DNS | $8.32/month | 8 | 94 countries | Yes |
Surfshark | Unlimited connections, NoBorders | $2.49/month | Unlimited | 100 countries | Yes |
NordVPN | SmartPlay, NordLynx protocol | $3.71/month | 6 | 60 countries | Yes |
Choose any VPN from above, but never choose a free VPN. If someone ever tells you about the best free VPN for Roku, then remember it’s not true. There is no such best free VPN.
How We Selected and Tested These Roku VPNs
We carefully evaluated each VPN based on the following criteria so that your VPN does not slow down your internet:
- Speed: Made it possible to have low buffering time when streaming 4k videos.
- Server Availability: Cross-checked the location availability of servers.
- Ease of Use: Assessed how effortless or complex it is to organize the clients on Roku.
- Security: Check the security features always, as we do.
- Customer Support: Monitored support team’s responsiveness and level of helpfulness.
Why Do I Need a VPN for Roku?
Having a VPN on Roku stick is important to avoid restrictions, protect oneself, and become more secure. Some streaming services block the content according to your geographical location, and a VPN will assist you in unblocking these.
VPNs That Don’t Work with Roku
Roku does not support VPNs; therefore, not all VPNs are compatible with the platform. Some VPNs with poor performance also have user privacy issues, such as Hola VPN and Betternet.
How to Install a VPN on Roku TV?
To set up a VPN on Roku, user cannot download it in the same manner as the routine way since it cannot be downloaded directly on the Roku device. Instead of the above, you’ll have to configure a VPN on your router or use a virtual VPN router on your PC.
How to Set Up ExpressVPN on Roku?
Setting up ExpressVPN on Roku requires configuring the VPN on your router first.
- To do this, user must subscribe to the service provider. Use Roku with VPN like ExpressVPN.
- The easiest way of protecting all the devices in your home or office is to set up ExpressVPN on your router, as explained here.
- Plug your Roku into the router that has a VPN.
- Open your Roku device and stream your favorite shows, which you can now access easily.
FAQs
Although Roku does not natively support VPNs, you can use a VPN on your router to extend the VPN connection to your Roku.
Yes, free VPNs work with Roku Sticks, but you’ll probably have to install them on your network or use a VPN-enabled virtual router on your computer.
You can change it by following these steps:
1. Navigate to my.roku.com.
2. Sign in to your Roku account.
3. Your devices will be listed under the My Devices section.
4. Choose ‘Device’ to open Device details.
5. Tap Device location or Nickname, make changes, and click Save.
Through a VPN router, you can install a VPN on Roku because Roku does not natively support VPNs.
Ensure your casting device is connected to the same VPN server as your Roku, then cast typically.
To disable your Roku’s VPN, reset the device’s factory settings. Similarly, if you want to switch off the VPN permanently or temporarily, go back to Services > VPN and choose “Disable” under the “Start OpenVPN Client” option.
Conclusion
To select the appropriate Roku VPN , you should consider three main features: speed, security, and content unblocking capability. Depending on whether you value speed, price, or security – you will be happy to know that ExpressVPN, Surfshark, and NordVPN are all great options that offer the best VPN support for Roku.
Make sure to follow the proper installation procedures, and you will find yourself streaming without any restrictions on your Roku device.