Android TV VPNs: Best VPNs for Android TV boxes

Want to watch international streams on your Android TV box? A VPN can help you access regional streaming platforms. We recommend the best VPNs for Android TV boxes.

If you have an Android TV box, you’ll know it comes pre-loaded with various TV streaming apps. Unfortunately, some of those apps may not all be available where you live. For example, Vudu is only available in the US and Mexico. That means you’ll need a VPN for Android TV Box to watch it elsewhere.

Whether you want to use pre-installed apps or install an app that is only available in another region, you can do so with a VPN. A VPN for Android TV Box gets you an IP address from back home to watch services like Netflix, Hulu, or BBC iPlayer on vacation.

With a VPN you can access foreign game servers when you play Google Play Games, or rent and purchase movies from a different region using Google Play Movies and TV. You can also use VoIP apps safely in countries where VoIP is blocked.

No matter why you want to use a VPN on your Android TV Box, we have you covered in this guide. Below, you can see a quick list of our top VPN picks. Scroll down for in-depth summaries that will help choose between them.

Best VPN services for Android TV Box:

1. NordVPN: The best VPN for Android TV boxes. Reliable, fast, and strong on security. Works with all major streaming platforms, including Netflix. Easy to use on phones, TVs, tablets, and PCs. Superb value for money. Comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Surfshark: Best cheap VPN for Android TVs. Works with Netflix, HBO Max, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and many more. Can be used on an unlimited number of devices. Apps for all platforms, and has plenty of useful features. 
3. IPVanish: Popular with KODI users. Compatible with Apple TV and Firestick, and available to download from the Android TV Google Play Store. Works with most US streaming services. 
4. ExpressVPN: Fast and reliable. ExpressVPN is a fantastic all-rounder that works on Android TV, Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and VPN-compatible routers. Smart DNS service lets you access US TV services on any Android TV box.
5. CyberGhost VPN: Perfect for beginners who want a simple solution for their Android TV box. The app is available on the Play Store for Android TVs. Fast servers, and works with most international streaming platforms and TV services. 
6. Proton VPN: Best all-rounder for users who want a reliable VPN for Android TV, and advanced security

Summary Table

We pinpointed the best VPNs for Android TV and Android TV boxes by carefully checking the market using a specific set of criteria:

• Has an Android app that is available on Google Play Store for Android TV
• Has a global server network to get an IP address in many different regions
• Fast servers that let you stream HD TV and on-demand videos without lag
• Works with popular streaming services such as Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube TV, etc
• Zero logs policy and strong security protocols with 256-bit encryption
• Apps for all popular devices so you can get the most out of your VPN
• Excellent customer support that is available at any time of day

Besides the features listed above, our top three recommendations must also have the following features:

• Security audits. We feel strongly about only recommending VPNs that not only provide access to TV services but also provide high levels of privacy. This is why we favor VPNs that have completed a full third-party audit of their service and policies. 
• Diskless servers. Provides additional security for users by allowing the VPN to instantly erase a server by pulling the plug. This is perfect in an emergency, or if a server is suddenly raided by the authorities. 

Best VPNs for Android TV boxes

If you need to use a VPN right away, the list above is perfect for making a quick choice. That said, we recommend that you read the detailed summaries below to find the best Android TV VPN for all your needs!

NordVPN is the best VPN for Android TV. It offers the most impressive combination of fast speeds, strong security, and user-friendly apps, including a native Android TV app that you can download directly from the official Android TV Google Play Store.

With NordVPN, you can access streaming services from home while abroad. Or access regional catalogs to increase your streaming options. It is also secure enough to stream using popular players like Kodi without being tracked. 

We think NordVPN is the best option for Android TV whether you are on vacation, working overseas, or using an Android TV in your hotel room. NordVPN makes it easy to bypass regional blocks to keep using all your favorite TV services on any Android TV. 

Security and privacy

NordVPN offers top-notch privacy features. It uses advanced encryption protocols like AES-256 (via OpenVPN) and ChaCha20 (via NordLynx) to keep your data safe. It also has a reliable system-level kill switch, obfuscated VPN servers that conceal OpenVPN traffic as regular HTTPS, and MultiHop connections that tunnel your traffic through two locations for added privacy.

For users who want to access the Dark Web without local networks and ISPs knowing, you can use Tor over VPN servers. These servers encrypt your data and route you to the VPN before entering the first node in the Tor network. This ensures that nobody knows you are entering the Tor network.

In addition to having a rock-solid no-logs policy, which means it never keeps records of your activities, NordVPN has completed a full third-party audit of its apps, network, and policies. The audit by Deloitte confirmed NordVPN works exactly as advertised to give its users online privacy.

It is also worth noting that NordVPN now controls its entire server network without any interference from third-party server companies. The servers also run exclusively in RAM. These diskless servers improve security for users because they can be remotely erased simply by pulling the plug. 

Leak tests

As always, we ran tests to check the integrity of the VPN tunnels on our devices. We tested for IP, DNS, and WebRTC leaks that could betray your activities to your ISP or local networks (and reveal your home IP address to the websites you visit). Our tests show that NordVPN is completely leak-free.

These results make NordVPN a reliable option for Android TV users who want to access regional services. It is also rock solid for bypassing streaming blocks at work, in school, or when trying to stream on public WiFi (hotels, coffee shops, in-flight, and on public transport, for example).

If you're traveling to China, Iran, or other restrictive regions, NordVPN's obfuscated servers can help you bypass censorship and access regional Android TV services that might not otherwise be available. 

Performance and speed

NordVPN is one of the fastest VPNs we've tested, making it great for streaming on Android TV. In our speed tests, NordVPN reached an average download speed of 196 Mbps, placing it among the fastest VPNs available. 

Next, we tested NordVPN on regular home broadband. The baseline speed without a VPN using my Cogeco broadband connection in Canada was 200 Mbps. We then connected to servers in various places around the world to see how the VPN affected our speeds.

• UK (London server): Download speed of 180.34 Mbps, reflecting a 9.83% decrease.
• US (New York server): Download speed of 188.01 Mbps, reflecting a 6.2% decrease.
• Hong Kong server: Download speed of 178.00 Mbps, reflecting an 11% decrease.

These results reveal that NordVPN kept our internet running very close to top speed. This explains why NordVPN performs so well when streaming HD content on an Android TV. It also makes it a fantastic option for playing games, torrenting, making video calls, and other data-intensive tasks. 

NordVPN Android TV app features

NordVPN has an excellent feature set for its price point. Besides providing robust encryption and all the features needed to stay private online, it also includes DNS-based ad and tracker blocking, split tunneling, and an auto-connect feature designed to protect you when you join untrusted networks. 

The split tunneling feature is useful anytime you want to do some activities through the VPN (such as sharing the VPN connection with a smart TV via a WiFi hotspot) while doing other tasks outside of the VPN tunnel. 

We thoroughly tested the NordVPN kill switch on Windows by crashing the VPN using Task Manager. We simultaneously used a page refresh tool connected to an API running an IP checking tool (set to check the IP once per second). 

This allowed us to check whether the VPN leaked our real IP address during the process of cutting and uncutting our internet. The kill switch worked perfectly during disconnection and reconnection – never revealing our real IP address to the test server.

Global server network

NordVPN has over 6,000 servers in 111+ countries. This gives you extensive global coverage, which is perfect for Android TV users wanting to access more content on IPTV services globally. Whether you're living abroad or traveling, you will be able to use NordVPN to stream your favorite TV shows from home. 

You can also make use of the wide choice of servers for work (to test website performance in different regions, for example), or to get region-specific search results. This is handy if you are on vacation and want to do some shopping based on searches with stores from back home.

When picking a server, NordVPN makes it very easy thanks to its server map. This makes it simple to find the best server for your needs – whether streaming or doing other tasks such as gaming.

Streaming

If you want to stream Netflix on Android TV with a VPN, look no further! NordVPN is ideal for streaming on Android TV. 

It consistently worked with platforms like Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, and ESPN during our tests. This makes it by far the best VPN for Android TV in the USA. Whether you want to stream your favorite content while traveling or access international services, NordVPN delivers a smooth and reliable experience across its entire network.

NordVPN is also a fantastic option to access geo-restricted content on Android TV. We tested a variety of NordVPN server locations and could stream unique services like Joyn in Germany, TVer in Japan, Crave in Canada, and ATRES Player in Spain. This makes it a solid choice for accessing global content on Android TV. 

Ease of use

NordVPN is available directly from the Google Play Store on your Android TV. This makes it very easy to download and install the VPN directly onto your Android TV. If you have a very old Android TV that does not provide access to the modified Play Store, you may need to sideload it on a dongle – but this is getting rarer nowadays because most folks have a newer TV.

We found the installation process to be nice and quick. The app is intuitive, making it easy for both beginners and advanced users to get access to the features they need. For devices that don’t support VPN apps, like smart TVs or consoles, you can install NordVPN on your router. The setup is straightforward because NordVPN provides guides for various router models and brands.

If you do have any questions, the service also offers 24/7 live chat support and a 30-day money-back guarantee. This allows anybody to try the VPN out on their devices and to check that it works with their favorite streaming platforms before committing long-term.

Buy this VPN if you are looking for:

• Secure and reliable access to streaming services on Android TV from anywhere in the world.
• User-friendly apps with advanced privacy tools.
• An independently audited no-logs policy.
• A VPN with extensive server coverage for consistent access to Android TV content.
• RAM-only servers for enhanced privacy.

Don't buy this VPN if:

• You need a VPN with port forwarding.

BEST VPN FOR ANDROID TV: NordVPN is our top pick for Android TV users because of its excellent privacy features, ease of use, and fast speeds. With a 30-day money-back guarantee, it’s a risk-free way to enhance your streaming experience.

Read our full review of NordVPN.

Surfshark is a VPN that we often recommend to families looking for the best VPN for Android TV. Not only is it affordable, but it was designed with larger households in mind. The unlimited connection allowance means you can use the VPN on various Android smart TVs (perfect if you have TVs in the lounge, kitchen, and bedrooms). 

You are free to use the VPN on individual devices such as tablets, laptops, and smartphones. This makes it suitable for gaining privacy at home, at work, in school, and while out and about on public WiFi. Anybody looking for a quality VPN at a budget price will find that Surfshark delivers strong privacy and exceptional speeds. It also works with popular streaming services without errors.

Security and privacy

Surfshark has an excellent reputation for privacy and security. The VPN is based in the British Virgin Islands – a place that has no mandatory data retention directives. This allows it to uphold a strict no-logging policy. Plus, it is worth noting that the privacy policy has been independently audited to verify that the VPN is doing everything as promised (and without flaws that could affect its users).

The VPN has a choice of protocols and uses advanced encryption, including AES-256 (via OpenVPN) and ChaCha20 (via WireGuard). These protocols ensure your data stays secure at all times. This makes it a reliable VPN for preventing online tracking at the hands of local networks (workplaces, schools, public WiFi, etc), ISPs, and government agencies.

As you can see below, our tests confirmed Surfshark doesn’t suffer from IP, DNS, or WebRTC leaks. 

The integrity of the VPN tunnel makes Surfshark trustworthy for privacy purposes. Your activities always remain locked in the VPN tunnel so that websites can never detect your location. This also prevents ISPs from engaging in mandatory data retention directives if you live in a country like the UK (where ISPs must store browsing data for 12 months). 

Diskless servers

Another security benefit of Surfshark is its network of diskless servers. These diskless servers are in a state of constant flux. This overwrites old data as new data arrives in the server's RAM. Having diskless servers also means the VPN can erase everything instantly by pulling the plug on any server location – ideal in an emergency or during a server raid.

A unique feature we liked when testing Surfshark was its rotating IP option. This changes your IP at set intervals, which helps confuse websites and prevent tracking. Surfshark also supports MultiHop, which routes your connection through two servers for added protection (this encrypts your data twice on its way to the final destination).

We tested the kill switch by forcing a VPN crash, and it worked flawlessly. The VPN cut off all internet traffic. This makes it a solid option for torrenting or any other sensitive use cases.

Performance and speed

In our speed tests, Surfshark was extremely impressive for its price point. It was more than fast enough for HD streaming, gaming, and browsing. 

We tested the VPN using dedicated servers and standard home broadband. Surfshark maintained consistent speeds in both tests. Our server-based tests were carried out using a dedicated server with a Gigabit line. We tested three locations to get an average top speed. Surfshark registered 188 Mbps, which is extremely impressive.

Next, we tested on a home broadband connection in Canada. The baseline speed without a VPN was 200 Mbps (Cogeco broadband, tested using an Asus Zenbook laptop and the app version of Ookla). 

Below, you can see how the VPN affected our speed in different locations:

• UK (London server): Download speed of 182.92 Mbps, representing an 8.54% decrease.
• US (New York server): Download speed of 178.91 Mbps, representing a 10.55% decrease.
• Hong Kong server: Download speed of 169.34 Mbps, representing a 15.33% decrease. 

All our speed tests revealed Surfshark to be extremely consistent across a variety of global locations. This makes it a fantastic option for streaming on Android TV. We enjoyed watching platforms like Netflix and Hulu and suffered no buffering or lag, whether watching on a smart TV, tablet, or laptop.

Features

Surfshark has a wealth of useful features that make it a great all-rounder for use on individual devices such as smartphones and tablets – as well as Android TVs. The split tunneling option lets you choose which apps use the VPN. 

To make use of the unlimited connection allowance, you can install Surfshark on Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, Linux, and Amazon Fire TV. This means you never need to compromise on what you are going to watch, the whole family can connect to different servers and watch different platforms on their own devices!

Surfshark also includes CleanWeb, which blocks ads, trackers, and malware. During our tests, we noticed that CleanWeb improved browsing speed by reducing the number of elements loaded on web pages. This led to faster page load times, especially on content-heavy sites. 

Another advantage of this feature is that you save on your mobile data plan when out and about using your phone, which is great if you are on a pay-as-you-go plan, or have limited data each month and don't want to waste your data on ads and unwanted tracking scripts.

Global server network

Surfshark has over 3,200 servers in 100+ countries This allows it to provide reliable access to content in regions like North America, Europe, and Asia. 

We tested servers in the US, Germany, and Japan, and Surfshark provided seamless access to Android TV content in all these locations. The server network helps you unblock Android TV services and can also switch your Google Play Store, to let you download region-specific apps like BBC iPlayer.

We found it particularly useful for accessing international content while traveling and for bypassing streaming blocks on public WiFi. For example, I could not load YouTube videos on British Rail services until I connected to Surfshark VPN. This was caused by bandwidth restrictions that the VPN was able to bypass.

Surfshark also offers static IPs at no extra cost. This means you can get the same IP address each session if you need to. This is particularly important when using websites and services that may flag you for suspicious activities if your IP address keeps changing.

Streaming with Surfshark on Android TV

Surfshark works extremely smoothly for streaming, which is key for Android TV users. We tested Surfshark on multiple Android TV models, including Sony, TCL, and NVIDIA Shield. All these models have access to the modified Android TV Google Play Store, which means we could easily install and use Surfshark on each TV without any issues. 

The setup was straightforward across all the Android TV models we tested, but we did notice that the NVIDIA Shield offered a slightly faster and smoother interface compared to some of the others. This was more than likely due to the NVIDIA Tegra X1+ processor (which is more powerful than standard processors used in most Android TVs) rather than anything caused by the VPN software itself.

For smart TVs that aren't true Android TV, such as LG, we had to share a VPN-protected WiFi hotspot from a laptop. This process is extremely easy and is also worth considering if you have an older Android TV with less processing power and RAM. (Using the VPN on the laptop or desktop computer will free up your TV’s resources and keep everything running smoother in this circumstance.)

Accessibility

To check how it performs to access regional services, we tested Surfshark VPN on Android TV with services like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. We were happy to find that we could easily stream Netflix on Android TV with Surfshark (it worked with more than 12 different regions).

For users wanting to unblock geo-restricted content on Android TV, we could also access services in the UK, Italy, and Germany – highlighting that this is a rock-solid VPN when it comes to accessing international platforms. 

You can check the VPN’s compatibility with TV services in over 111 countries thanks to its 30-day money-back guarantee. So if you have a specific TV service or streaming platform in mind, you can easily test Surfshark yourself first.

Ease of use

Surfshark's apps are clean, intuitive, and easy to navigate. The design is consistent across devices, making it simple to switch between platforms. We found the setup quick, and the settings easy to adjust for the best experience.

The VPN provides 24/7 live chat support if you need help. Plus, Surfshark comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it yourself on any device.

Buy this VPN if you are looking for:

• A budget-friendly VPN with strong privacy for Android TV.
• Unlimited connections to share with friends and family.
• Advanced features like IP rotation and diskless servers.
• Reliable speeds for streaming and browsing on Android TV.

Don't buy this VPN if:

• Surfshark offers optional security features like Surfshark One (which includes antivirus and identity protection) for an additional cost. If you are solely interested in the VPN you may find the availability of these extras in the VPN app a touch confusing at first.

BEST BUDGET VPN FOR ANDROID TV: Surfshark offers amazing value with strong privacy features. Servers in over 100 countries provide fast speeds and easy access to global content. With unlimited connections and a 30-day money-back guarantee, it’s perfect for Android TV users who want to test it with various streaming platforms.

Read our full review of Surfshark.

IPVanish is a popular US-based VPN that is great for streaming US services on Android TV. The IPVanish Android TV app is available to download from the Google Play Store. This makes it extremely easy to use with most modern Android TV models.

This VPN has servers in 18+ different US cities. This makes it a particularly reliable option for American viewers wanting to bypass blackout restrictions to watch NHL, NFL, MLB, and any other games that are blocked locally. 

In our opinion, the VPN represents outstanding value for money considering the speeds, wide server network, and robust security features that will ensure everything you do online remains private at all times. 

Security and privacy

IPVanish delivers robust security with AES-256 encryption using the OpenVPN protocol, which prevents eavesdropping. For example, when streaming on public WiFi, we found that no third parties could intercept or monitor our sessions. Below, you can see the results of our leak tests, which prove that this VPN's encrypted tunnel is completely reliable.

The VPN includes advanced privacy features, such as a kill switch that blocks internet traffic if the VPN connection drops and DNS leak protection. For streaming and data-heavy activities, IPVanish also supports the WireGuard protocol with ChaCha20 encryption. 

We tested this protocol thoroughly and found it to be the best option for streaming on the smart TVs we had access to (Sony, TCL, and NVIDIA Shield). We also used this protocol when testing LG and Samsung smart TVs, which we used via a VPN-protected WiFi hotspot that we set up on an Asus Zenbook laptop. We experienced decent performance when using both methods.

Anybody living in a country that implements VPN blocks will be happy with IPVanish Scramble protocol (XOR), which disguises OpenVPN traffic as regular HTTPS. You also get a free SOCKS5 proxy, which can come in handy for torrenting and bypassing blocks in some regions or networks. However, please note that this VPN does not officially support users in China. For this reason, anybody living or visiting China is advised to stick with NordVPN or Surfshark.

Performance and speed

As always, we tested this VPN to see how it performs for online tasks that require fast speeds. This is particularly important when choosing an Android TV VPN, which you will use for streaming HD content.

First, we tested it using a dedicated server with a 1 Gbps connection. We tested three different locations in the AM, noon, and PM to get a global top speed average. IPVanish achieved an average top speed of 268 Mbps, making it one of the fastest VPNs currently available.

We acknowledge that most home users don't have a Gigabit line. For this reason, we also perform home-based broadband tests. These tests are carried out using a 200 Mbps Cogeco broadband connection in Canada. We tested using the Ookla desktop app on an Asus Zenbook computer running Windows 11. This gives you a real-world perspective of how the VPN is likely to perform for you at home.

• UK (London server): Download speed of 180.58 Mbps, indicating a 9.71% decrease.
• US (New York server): Download speed of 185.26 Mbps, indicating a 7.37% decrease.
• Hong Kong server: Download speed of 155.32 Mbps, indicating a 22.34% decrease.

As you can see, the VPN offered decent consistency and fast speeds. 

The Hong Kong server was a bit slower. However, this is pretty normal considering the distance my traffic had to travel from Canada. That said, if you specifically want a VPN to access Asian services on your Android TV, we’d still advise going for one of our top picks instead.

On the plus side, we experienced no buffering or performance issues when watching YouTube, Netflix, and BBC iPlayer. We also found it to be reliable when playing games like PUBG, CoD, and Roblox.

Features

IPVanish offers several features that benefit Android TV users. The split tunneling feature lets you choose which apps use the VPN and which don't, allowing you to stream while other apps use your standard internet connection. The auto-connect feature helps to protect you when you join untrusted networks. 

You can also set the auto-connect to work alongside the kill switch, which means you will never have to worry if you leave torrents on while you are at work. If the kill switch kicks in with other VPNs you will get home to a half-finished download. With IPVanish, by contrast, the application will reconnect automatically. This allows your downloads to continue!

One of IPVanish's strengths is its unlimited device connection allowance. This lets you use the VPN on as many devices as you need and means you can easily share the VPN with friends and family. It also means you can watch different shows and services on different devices – no need for squabbling. 

Perhaps the biggest reason to get IPVanish over the other best VPNs for Android TV is the Advanced plan. This gives you unlimited access to the VPN alongside a secure cloud-based browser and 1 TB of cloud storage. The cost of this plan practically gives you the VPN for free because it costs the same as 1 TB of storage with leading cloud storage providers like Google.

Global server network

IPVanish has over 2,400 self-owned servers across 50+ countries. You can connect to servers in over 75 cities, including servers in 18+ cities across America. This makes it easy to access regional services on Android TV. The self-owned server infrastructure also means no third-party involvement, which makes the network extremely smooth, reliable, and better in terms of security.

Streaming

We tested IPVanish on multiple Android TV models. We were able to install the app directly from the Google Play Store on Sony, TCL, and NVIDIA Shield Android TVs. The app wrecked very smoothly and made it easy to pick the servers we needed.

It is worth noting that a few years back IPVanish was not the best VPN for streaming. It would work with a few US platforms but struggled with international services. Nowadays that has all changed.

We tested various locations and could stream Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, and many other services without buffering. The servers in 18+ US cities are great for accessing region-specific content, which is great if you have an MLB.tv, NFL Game Pass, or any other sports streaming service that requires a VPN to get around blackouts.

While this VPN is much improved for streaming, we would still advise that you test it with your streaming accounts. You can do this thanks to its 30-day money-back guarantee. This gives you the chance not only to try it on your TV but also to compare it to other options before settling.

Ease of use

IPVanish apps are available on all major platforms, including Android TV. We enjoy using the app because it provides plenty of useful connection information, including server load. This makes it easier to choose the best server for your needs.

24/7 live chat support is available, which means you will never need to stress when using or setting up the VPN. Simply head to the website and talk to an agent, they are very friendly and know how to solve most issues. quickly.

Buy this VPN if you are looking for:

• Fast, reliable VPN suitable for streaming on Android TV.
• Unlimited device connections for family use.
• Strong security features, including split tunneling and a kill switch.
• Value-packed advanced plan with 1 TB of cloud storage.
• Bypassing regional blackouts such as NFL and MLB games.

Don't buy this VPN if:

• May not work in highly restrictive regions like China.
• Lacks advanced features such as MultiHop servers or port forwarding.
• Does not accept cryptocurrency payments.

BEST FOR US TV STREAMS: IPVanish is a great choice for Android TV users, offering reliable speeds, strong security, and unlimited device connections. It's perfect for families seeking both privacy and streaming access. An impressive option if you are in the market for a VPN that works with blackout games and comes with 1 TB of cloud storage.

Read our full review of IPVanish.

ExpressVPN is a well-known VPN brand first launched in 2009. This makes it a true veteran of the VPN industry. The VPN has reliable apps for all devices, including an Android TV app you can install directly from the Google Play Store. It also comes with a free Smart DNS (MediaStreamer) service you can use to access US TV platforms on Android TV.

Express has a rock-solid network of servers spanning 110+ countries, which means you can use it to access dozens of regional TV services, social media platforms, and any other regionally restricted content. 

The main drawback? Express is a touch expensive compared to similar VPNs. However, those who can afford it will find it a highly reliable option for getting freedom of access and online privacy whether at home, at work, or using public WiFi.

Security and privacy

ExpressVPN offers strong privacy for Android TV users. It has a solid no-logs policy that has been independently audited – along with its apps and network. The apps are available for all popular devices and come with a choice of protocols, robust encryption, leak protection, and RAM-only servers that can be erased remotely in case of an emergency.

Connecting using OpenVPN protects your data with AES-256 encryption and built-in obfuscation. This makes it a rock-solid choice for people in countries like the UAE, Iran, and China where VPNs are often blocked.

The kill switch (Network Lock), cuts your internet if the VPN connection drops for any reason. This ensures that none of your activities are exposed outside of the VPN tunnel. We tested the kill switch and found it to work as advertised to cut your internet even if the app crashes.

As with Surfshark, ExpressVPN is headquartered in the privacy-friendly British Virgin Islands. This keeps it at arm's length from invasive jurisdictions like the EU, the US, and the UK. 

We tested for IP, DNS, and WebRTC leaks, and found ExpressVPN to be leak-proof, ensuring total privacy while using the Android TV app, or any of the other versions.

Performance and speed

ExpressVPN provides a custom protocol called Lightway. This open-source protocol is designed to give its users robust privacy and faster speeds. So, does it live up to its promise?

To find out, we tested ExpressVPN using a dedicated test server and regular home broadband. The server test allows us to check its top speed to see how much overhead it has. We were happy to find it could give us top speeds of 176 Mbps. This is plenty of speed for the average home user.

Next, I tested the VPN in the morning, noon, and night using a typical home connection in Canada (Cogeco Broadband with a baseline speed of 200 Mbps). I used the results to get regional averages:

• UK (London server): Download speed of 182.04 Mbps, representing an 8.98% decrease.
• US (New York server): Download speed of 177.01 Mbps, representing an 11.50% decrease.
• Hong Kong server: Download speed of 168.74 Mbps, representing a 15.63% decrease.

I was hugely impressed with these results, which puts it in the very top echelon of VPN services currently available on the market. Needless to say, this makes it a fantastic option for streaming on Android TV without buffering.

Features

ExpressVPN includes features that are useful for Android TV users. Split tunneling lets you use some apps with the VPN while others use your regular internet. This adds flexibility when streaming on Android TV or using the VPN on other devices such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets.

The VPN comes with Advanced Protection settings that leverage DNS-based filtering to block ads, trackers, and malware, enhancing your streaming experience. This speeds up page load times and saves on mobile data. However, don't expect it to block ads inside of streaming apps such as YouTube, Hulu, or Prime Video.

Besides having an Android TV app, ExpressVPN also comes with dedicated apps for all major devices. You can use the VPN on up to eight devices, which is usually enough for most power users and families.  

With ExpressVPN, you can also install its custom app for routers to extend VPN protection to every device in your home. This will provide VPN access to your Android TV without requiring you to install it directly. 

Global server network

ExpressVPN has a choice of Tier 1 servers in over 110 countries. This makes it a versatile VPN for accessing regional streaming platforms on Android TV. The servers are consistent and secure, which means they are suitable for bypassing censorship, or engaging in online tasks that require the utmost privacy.

Finding the servers is straightforward, but it is worth noting that there is no handy map or use-specific servers. This may feel like a bit of a letdown if you have used VPNs like Surfshark or CyberGhost with their many use-specific servers for streaming, static IPs, torrenting, etc.

Admittedly for the price of this VPN, it would be nice to have these types of lists. However, in practice, the VPN seems to work for everything regardless of which server you pick, so most people will find it just as easy to use and reliable as its competitors.

Streaming

In our tests, ExpressVPN was easy to install and use across all the Android TVs we tested it with. The app is available directly from the modified Google Play Store for Android TV, so no sideloading is necessary.

You can also use it with non-Android smart TVs by installing it on a router. In fact, it is the only VPN we know of that has a custom app for routers. This makes setting up and using ExpressVPN very easy on compatible routers.

In terms of accessibility, ExpressVPN might not have streaming-specific servers, but the regular servers all work for streaming anyway. We were able to access a dozen Netflix regions, Hulu, ITVX, ESPN, and Peacock. We could also access streams in Japan, Brazil, Germany, the UK, Australia, Italy, France, and Spain. 

For non-Android smart TVs like LG and Samsung, we shared a VPN-protected WiFi hotspot from a laptop. This was very easy. All we had to do was connect the VPN on our laptop, start a hotspot, and connect the TV to the hotspot.

It is also worth noting that ExpressVPN comes with a free Smart DNS service called MediaStreamer. If you don’t want to install a VPN on your Android TV, you can enter these DNS settings instead by opening your TV’s menu. This will make you appear to be in the USA, which lets you stream US networks from abroad.

Ease of use

ExpressVPN’s apps are straightforward and easy to navigate. This makes them suitable for both beginners and experienced users. The Android TV app is intuitive. Settings are accessible without complicated menus. If needed, 24/7 live chat support is available. Their video guides are particularly helpful for new users.

For those wanting to protect every device in their home, the ExpressVPN router app makes it simple to secure your entire network. This feature is a major plus for users with multiple streaming devices or those who want all their smart gadgets covered.

Buy this VPN if you are looking for:

• Easy installation on Android TV models.
• Reliable, fast connections for seamless 4K streaming.
• Simple, intuitive apps and 24/7 live chat support.
• Strong privacy features, including a kill switch and independently audited no-logs policy.
• Servers in 110+ countries for accessing content from anywhere.

Don't buy this VPN if:

• Higher cost compared to some competitors.
• Lacks advanced features like MultiHop servers or port forwarding.
• No cryptocurrency payment option.

EXCELLENT ALL-ROUNDER: ExpressVPN provides strong privacy features, fast and consistent speeds, and a reliable connection, making it a top choice for Android TV users. It’s especially good at unblocking global streaming services and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of ExpressVPN.

CyberGhost VPN is perfect for beginners looking for a simple VPN solution for Android TV users. It is perfect for streaming thanks to its streaming-optimized servers in 15+ countries. These servers are listed by platform, making it extremely easy to connect to a server for Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and dozens of other TV platforms from around the globe.

The VPN is based in Romania, a country that lacks invasive surveillance agencies or mandatory data retention directives. It also has rock-solid encryption, making it cheap and easy to gain online privacy and accessibility on an Android TV. 

Security and privacy

CyberGhost provides excellent privacy features that protect your streaming activities at home, work, or on the go. It has a strict no-logs policy, which means it doesn’t keep any records of your activities or the servers you use. A third-party audit has verified its policies, apps, and network configuration. This means you can trust all of its privacy claims completely.

The VPN supports multiple protocols, including OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2. These are implemented with solid encryption to ensure your data remains private. Despite being low cost, CyberGhost has all the key VPN security features that you need to gain online privacy.

This includes a system-level kill switch and DNS leak protection, which lets you use Kodi on Android TV without ever leaking your activities to your ISP. We tested the VPN for leaks and found it to have no IP, DNS, or WebRTC leaks.

The Smart Rules feature allows you to connect automatically when joining an unsecured network. This guarantees you’re always protected, even if you forget to turn the VPN on manually. On top of that, CyberGhost publishes quarterly transparency reports, so you know it’s committed to user privacy.

The downside? CyberGhost lacks obfuscation, which means it might not work well in countries that actively block VPNs, like China. It also doesn't support advanced features like port forwarding.

Performance and speed

CyberGhost offers impressive speeds, especially for its price. In our server-based tests, we managed to get top-speed averages of 289 Mbps. This is more than enough overhead for the average home user wanting to do data-intensive tasks like 4K streaming. 

We also tested CyberGhost on a typical home connection in Canada (Cogeco broadband with a baseline speed of 160 Mbps on the day of testing). Here’s how CyberGhost performed when I tested it using an Asus Zenbook laptop:

• UK (London server): Download speed of 132.34 Mbps, representing a 17.29% decrease.
• US (New York server): Download speed of 135.22 Mbps, representing a 15.49% decrease.
• Hong Kong server: Download speed of 126.78 Mbps, representing a 20.76% decrease.

The consistency of these results is hugely impressive considering the cost of this VPN. 

Throughout my time testing the VPN I experienced ideal speeds for data-intensive tasks, including 4K streaming on Android TV and playing games. The fact that it was still fast when connected to servers in far-off Asia is a testament to the quality of this service!

Features

CyberGhost VPN is awesome for users who want optimal value for money. The VPN packs a punch in terms of features for its price point. You can connect up to seven devices at the same time, which is usually enough for most users. 

It also offers DNS-based filtering to block ads, trackers, and malware, which speeds up browsing and saves mobile data. 

It also has a choice of protocols, DNS leak protection, URL-based split tunneling (not app-based), a kill switch, and an auto-connect (Smart Rules) feature that protects you if you join an unknown or untrusted network. 

However, it’s missing some advanced features, like MultiHop, split tunneling, and port forwarding. If you need those, you might want to look at some of our other recommendations.

Global server network

CyberGhost has over 10,000 servers in more than 100 countries. This is a huge amount of choice, which gives you plenty of options for unblocking content worldwide. We used it to access dozens of streaming platforms in locations like the US, UK, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and beyond.

Servers are categorized by use – for streaming, torrenting, or enhanced privacy via NoSpy servers. NoSpy servers offer hardened security for users who need extra privacy, such as journalists or activists. However, you can only connect to a single location (Bucharest in Romania).

CyberGhost also offers dedicated IPs for a small extra fee. This is useful for accessing apps or platforms that might flag you for suspicious activity if you have frequent IP changes.

Streaming

CyberGhost makes it easy to stream on Android TV. The VPN has dedicated servers optimized for streaming across 20+ countries. This makes it the easiest VPN for finding a server for Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, or whichever international service takes your fancy.

The streaming servers are labeled by both the country and the platform. This makes it easy to scroll down and find the one you need using the Android TV app.

To check compatibility and reliability, we tested CyberGhost on various Android TV models. It worked without issues on all the Android smart TVs that had access to the Google Play Store.

If you have an older Android TV, or a non-Android smart TV like a Samsung or LG, you have two options. You can either sideload the APK, or (easier) set up a VPN-protected wifi hotspot from a laptop or desktop computer. 

Ease of use

CyberGhost’s apps are perfectly designed for beginners. They are intuitive and easy to use whether you are on a tablet, desktop computer, smartphone, laptop, or Android TV. 

The interface is clean and straightforward, and it’s easy to select a server and change settings like the encryption protocol (though we advise sticking with Wireguard as this is noticeably faster for streaming).

If you prefer to protect your entire home network, you can set up CyberGhost on a compatible router. The VPN has guides to do this on its website. But for most people using the Android TV CyberGhost VPN app from the Play Store is the best way to go. 

If you run into any confusion or issues, be sure to contact the VPN’s 24/7 live chat support. We found the agents to be knowledgeable and friendly, which makes getting help a stress-free experience.

Buy this VPN if you are looking for:

• Massive choice of streaming-optimized servers in 20+ countries.
• Beginner-friendly apps that are easy to set up on Android TV.
• Reliable speeds for streaming, gaming, and daily use.
• DNS-based ad blocker to enhance browsing and save data.
• Affordable pricing with a 45-day money-back guarantee.

Don't buy this VPN if:

• No advanced features like MultiHop, split tunneling, or port forwarding.
• No obfuscation for use in heavily censored regions.
• Limited to seven simultaneous device connections.

BEST FOR BEGINNERS AND STREAMING: CyberGhost VPN is a great choice for Android TV users who want an easy setup and reliable streaming. With a 45-day money-back guarantee, it’s a low-risk way to try a top VPN for content access and privacy.

Read our full review of CyberGhost VPN.

Proton VPN is an excellent choice for Android TV users focused on privacy and advanced features. If you need an all-around VPN with many security features you might not get with other VPNs – including port forwarding for torrenting – we recommend trying this VPN. Just bear in mind that it costs a touch more, so it is better for those who need all of its features.

Proton is developed by the team behind Proton Mail. This is a Swiss company that is known for its dedication to privacy. Proton VPN’s apps and infrastructure have undergone independent third-party audits, giving users the confidence they need for reliable, secure streaming on Android TV – whether enjoying a movie night or catching up on shows.

Security and privacy

Proton VPN offers a robust set of privacy features, making it an excellent choice for security-conscious users who value features like MultiHop and Secure Core servers for enhanced privacy. It includes a selection of secure protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard, AES-256 encryption, and essential tools such as DNS and IPv6 leak protection. Its system-level kill switch ensures that your data is never exposed, even if the VPN connection drops. MultiHop is also available, allowing you to route your data through multiple servers for enhanced privacy.

Another standout feature is Proton's obfuscation, which disguises your VPN traffic to bypass blocks on restrictive networks. For extra anonymity, you can use Tor over VPN – ideal for accessing content securely, even in countries with heavy censorship. Proton VPN also includes Secure Core servers located in hardened facilities like underground bunkers, providing better protection for users with an elevated threat model.

We also tested Proton VPN for leaks and found no IP, DNS, or WebRTC leaks, ensuring that the VPN tunnel offers complete privacy for any online tasks you have.

Performance and speed

A VPN that is well-suited to Android TVs must be fast enough for HD streaming. The good news is that our tests showed Proton VPN to be extremely speedy. It clocked an average top speed of 303 Mbps, which places it among the fastest VPNs on the market.

To see how it performs in a normal home setting, we also tested Proton on a home broadband connection in Canada. On the day of testing, we had a baseline speed of 175 Mbps:

• UK (London server): Download speed of 141.98 Mbps, representing an 18.87% drop.
• US (New York server): Download speed of 153.94 Mbps, representing a 12.03% drop.
• Hong Kong server: Download speed of 114.54 Mbps, representing a 34.55% drop.

While Proton VPN isn’t the absolute fastest, it still delivers solid speeds. The results are more than adequate for streaming 4K video on Android TV without buffering. 

The only slight drawback was the slower results on its Hong Kong servers. If you are interested in watching Asian TV platforms, you may want to test it yourself using the money-back guarantee to be 100% certain that it works smoothly for you on your TV.

Proton VPN Android TV VPN features

Proton VPN is feature-rich, making it a great choice for advanced users. It includes split tunneling to allow specific apps to bypass the VPN, port forwarding for torrenting, and the ability to create custom profiles to quickly connect to optimized servers. 

The port forwarding feature assigns a random port each session. This means you will need to set that port in your torrent client. This is a minor inconvenience for those who want to be able to seed torrents smoothly (at least you get port forwarding which is a rarity nowadays!).

The user-friendly interface makes it easy to identify the best server for your needs, whether that’s for streaming, P2P, or Tor over VPN. Proton also offers NetShield, a feature that blocks ads, trackers, and malware to speed up browsing – particularly helpful when using Android TV.

Global server network

With servers in over 112 countries, Proton VPN has everything you need to access regional services and bypass censorship. This includes obfuscated servers, MultiHop servers, and Tor over VPN servers for getting additional privacy in countries like China and the UAE.

The intuitive map feature makes it easy to select the right server for your Android TV, whether you’re after faster speeds using a server closer to home or accessing a particular country’s content. 

Proton even works in countries with heavy censorship, like China. This makes it a versatile option for travelers who want to watch home TV services while away. 

You can install the VPN onto any Android TV, including those in hotels. However, you must remember to sign out of the VPN app and delete it before you check out or the next guest might use your VPN. 

Streaming

Proton VPN is excellent for streaming on Android TV, thanks to dedicated streaming servers that work to watch platforms like Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, and Prime Video.

These servers are labeled with a play button icon, which makes them super-easy to spot. We tested Proton VPN on various Android TV models and found the app easy to install from the Play Store.

Our tests revealed that Proton's Play-button marked servers work with popular services in many regions around the globe. However, on occasion, we connected to a streaming server that did not work to access a regional streaming service in that country. 

For this reason, we recommend that you use the money-back guarantee to test the VPN with your specific streaming accounts. This will let you see whether the VPN works for streaming the services that interest you.

Ease of use

Proton VPN is available on Android TV, Windows, macOS, iOS, Linux, and more, with up to 10 simultaneous connections. Though the VPN has many advanced features, the default configuration is beginner-friendly. It also includes built-in explanations, making it easy to understand and configure even if you’re new to VPNs.

For those who want to try it out before subscribing, Proton VPN offers a free plan. This plan has no data caps, but it’s limited to three server locations. It is also not suitable for streaming because it restricts access to Netflix and other popular streaming platforms. Streaming servers are reserved for paying subscribers only.

Buy this VPN if you are looking for:

• Privacy-focused with features like Secure Core, MultiHop, and Tor over VPN.
• Great for streaming on Android TV with optimized servers in 15+ countries.
• Easy installation on Android TV models with access to Google Play Store.
• Customizable options like split tunneling and port forwarding.

Don't buy this VPN if:

• Not the fastest compared to some competitors.
• Port forwarding setup requires manual input each session.
• Advanced features may overwhelm VPN beginners.

ADVANCED FEATURES AND PRIVACY: Proton VPN combines top-notch privacy tools with a powerful server network, making it ideal for users needing both security and flexibility. With a 30-day money-back guarantee, it’s a great choice for Android TV users wanting advanced privacy while streaming.

Read our full review of Proton VPN.

Testing methodology: How we chose the best VPNs for Android TV

At BleepingComputer we review VPNs to help consumers pick reliable services that truly protect their data. Our tests focus on finding secure and reliable VPNs that offer online security in a variety of situations. For this guide, we also analyzed each VPN’s suitability for use with an Android TV. 

Our VPN testing methodology looks at privacy, speed, streaming capabilities, ease of use, and value for money. This allows us to compare VPNs head to head using real scientific metrics and results that allow us to accurately rank VPNs for Android TV from best to worst.

Speed testing

Speed is one of the most crucial elements of any VPN. It is especially important for users wanting to stream on Android TV. No one wants buffering or slow loading times when trying to enjoy their favorite show. That's why we perform speed tests on every VPN, using multiple servers at different times to provide you with realistic analysis of its potential.

We run both high-speed server tests and practical home broadband tests. We do this to give you an idea of what the VPN is capable of (top speed) and how it is likely to perform for you (home tests).

We check the speed drop-off that occurs when connected to different servers. This lets you see how the VPN affected our performance. For this guide we picked the best VPNs that showed minimal speed reductions, keeping streaming seamless on each of the Android TVs we tested. These VPNs are also suitable for playing games and torrenting thanks to their fast performance.

Streaming and content access

Streaming performance is critical for Android TV users. This is why we pay special attention to a VPN's ability to unblock popular global streaming services. We test each VPN to see how well it works with services like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and regional options like BBC iPlayer and Amazon Prime Video.

We check how reliably and smoothly each VPN accesses these services, checking for buffering, quality drops, and connection reliability. VPNs that easily bypass geo-restrictions and deliver HD or 4K streaming without issues.

Our picks are reliable whether you want to watch the latest Netflix series or tune into live sports events on Amazon Prime Video. If a VPN couldn't consistently stream Netflix or had issues connecting to other popular platforms, we did not consider it for inclusion in the list.

Security and privacy

Privacy and security are by far the most important aspects of any VPN. Our tests focus on the strength of encryption, leak protection, and the reliability of each VPN’s kill switch.

We make sure that every VPN meets the highest security standards, including AES-256 encryption, DNS, and IPv6 leak protection (which helps prevent ISP throttling and keeps your data private during streaming on Android TV), and a robust no-logs policy.

We also check the VPN privacy policy for any potential gray areas or worrying data practices. This ensures we only recommend VPNs that truly look out for their users. We also favor VPNs that have completed full third-party security audits as this increases trust and transparency for its users. 

Diskless servers and special features like MultiHop routes and Secure Core servers are all considered to give VPNs extra points. Only VPNs that offer reliable online privacy are even considered for our lists. This ensures that we never recommend VPNs that aren't fit for privacy purposes.

Ease of use

Using a VPN shouldn't be complicated, especially for Android TV. We tested how easy it was to install and configure each VPN on Android TV and other platforms like Windows, macOS, and iOS. A beginner-friendly interface was a must, featuring a one-click server selection and easy navigation options for Android TV users – after all, you want to click a button and get streaming without dealing with confusing settings.

We tested the customer support thoroughly to see how quickly they responded and how knowledgeable they were. A good VPN should be as easy to set up as it is to cancel, and those that made it difficult to find support or end a subscription lost points in our evaluation.

Value for money

We all want a VPN that represents decent value for money. Unfortunately, price is not always an indicator of quality when it comes to VPNs. Some cheap VPNs are exceptional, while plenty of overpriced VPNs are useless.

That's why we assessed each VPN's cost in relation to the features offered. We don't just look for the cheapest VPN; we look for those that offer high-quality services at a fair price. This includes checking for money-back guarantees, free trials, and multi-device support.

Advanced features, like secure cloud storage and port forwarding, add value to the subscription and are also factored into our rankings. Pricey VPNs with limited features are eliminated, in favor of services that provide robust security and access at the best possible price.

Android TV Box VPNs: FAQs

Can I use a free VPN for Android TV?

Although there are some free VPNs available on the market, these are not a good option for your Android TV. The vast majority of free VPNs are insecure, which means that they do not provide you with online privacy. 

Reliable VPN providers such as AtlasVPN and ProtonVPN only provide a limited free plan to a) advertise their service, and b) give users access to a VPN in times of need; such as when the government blocks access to news, online communications methods, or social media services needed to stay in touch with friends and family. For this reason, those free plans are fairly limited, have few servers to pick from, and are not optimized for accessing streaming services and TV platforms. 

By leaving streaming access for premium users only, these VPNs ensure people will have to upgrade to a paid plan if they want to watch Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, or other popular services on their Android TV or computer.

Ultimately, you are free to try a free VPN with your Android TV box if you want to. However, we urge you to stick to recommended services only, as many free VPNs have been found to have invasive privacy policies, dangerous leaks, a lack of encryption, and even apps that contain spyware.

In addition, you should not expect free VPNs to have good speeds or to work with streaming services, so if you need these features we recommend you try one of our recommended VPNs for free by taking advantage of their money-back guarantees. This will allow you to enjoy an unrestricted VPN plan that can stream in HD on an Android TV box.

Is the Google Play Store different on Android TV?

Yes. If you have an Android TV or Android TV Box, you can get apps from the Google Play Store. However, it is important to note that it's different from the Play Store you use on an Android phone. The list of apps is specifically curated for Android TVs, which means that there are not as many apps available to choose from. 

Thankfully, the VPNs we have recommended in this guide all have apps that are available on the Google Play Store for Android TVs. You can also install apps to an Android TV or Android TV Box by sideloading. You aren’t necessarily prevented from installing other Android apps that aren’t listed in the Google Play Store.

You can check whether a VPN is available for Amazon TV by checking the app's description on the Google Play Store or the VPN provider's website. We recommend you check if the app is compatible with your specific model of Android TV or Android TV Box before taking out a subscription (older models may not have as much compatibility as the latest models)

Can I use KODI on an Android TV Box?

Yes. Many people install KODI on their Android TV box to be able to enjoy movies and TV shows from popular repositories. If you want to use KODI on a TV box, you can find installation guides on the internet, so search for installation instructions for your particular Android Box. 

Alternatively, simply head over to the KODI website and download the latest build onto your device. If necessary, download the KODI installer onto a secondary device and then sideload it onto your Android TV Box using a USB dongle.

Once KODI is installed, simply download the add-ons you want to be able to access any repos that interest you. Remember that Kodi addons can be malicious, so be sure to connect to your VPN before streaming content. This will allow you to do so with absolute privacy

What is the best Android TV Box in 2024?

The market is saturated with hundreds of Android TV boxes, so there is a huge amount of choice. Android TV boxes come in just about every shape and size, and are available for many different budgets. With that said, we have included a few popular brand names below to give you an idea.

1. Easytone T95 Super – Best cheap Android box
2. Nvidia Shield TV Pro – Best overall
3. Xiaomi Mi Box S – Impressive performance at a reasonable cost

What kind of apps come pre-installed on Android TV Box?

The answer to this question really depends on the model that you buy, and it is worth remembering that Android TV boxes come in all shapes and sizes and are manufactured by many different companies. Below we have included a list of apps that we have noticed pre-installed on a large number of Android TV Box devices:

• Netflix
• YouTube
• Amazon Prime Video
• Google Play Movies & TV
• Freevee
• Vudu
• Amazon Music
• Google Play Store
• YouTube Music
• PLEX
• Google Play Games

Can I get a VoIP app for an Android TV Box?

Yes. It is possible to find VoIP apps for Android TV Box, however, not all VoIP apps are available on the Google Play Store for Android TV. In addition, not all Android TVs and Android TV boxes are compatible with VoIP apps. You must check that the VoIP app you want to use is available for Android TV.

There are several VoIP apps that are currently available for Android TV and Android TV Box. This includes Skype, WhatsApp, and Google Duo. You can check the Google Play Store on your particular Android TV to see whether these apps are available where you live.

If not, you can use a VPN to change your region and download the VoIP app from the Play Store, or download the APK file from a trusted third-party source and then sideload it onto your Android TV Box.

Note that VoIP apps are restricted in some countries, such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia. If you live in a country where VoIP is restricted, you will need to connect to a VPN server in order to download a VoIP app and use it

Can I change the IP address on an Android TV box?

Yes. When you connect to a VPN server you will conceal your home IP address and replace it with one in the remote location of the VPN server. This allows you to access streaming services from abroad. It hides your IP address from the websites you visit, which prevents them from tracking your location. 

Some of the VPNs we have recommended also come with a free Smart DNS service. This allows you to spoof your location to the US on smart TVs, consoles, and Android TV boxes. This is a useful way to access American streaming services on devices that won't let you install a VPN app.

Can I watch Netflix US on Android TV?

Yes. You can install the Netflix app directly from the Google Play Store for Amazon TV. This means that you can watch your Netflix US account directly on your Android TV or Android TV box. If you go on vacation, you can use a VPN to get an IP address in the US (or any other country where your VPN has servers). This will allow you to access the Netflix catalog from that country.

The only caveat is that most VPNs have now been blocked by Netflix. This means that you must stick to one of our recommendations. You can test any of the VPNs we have recommended to watch Netflix US on your Android TV thanks to the VPN's money-back guarantee.

Can I watch regional TV services with a VPN?

Yes. When you connect to a VPN server abroad (or in a different state) you get a valid IP address in that location. As a result, you can log in and watch any local TV services or streaming platforms that are usually region locked to that location. This means that you can use a VPN to bypass blackout game restrictions, or even to watch sports competitions, news broadcasts, and other TV shows from around the world.

Do I need a fast VPN for an Android TV?

Yes. To stream HD video on an Android TV or Android TV box, you will need excellent speeds. Many VPNs slow down your internet so much that they will cause buffering and poor video playback. This makes the vast majority of VPNs unsuitable for streaming. The VPNs we have recommended in this guide all have fast servers that are specifically designed to be good for streaming, gaming, torrenting, and other data-intensive tasks. 

Remember that you can get the best speeds for streaming by using the WireGuard or OpenVPN UDP protocols. In addition, we recommend connecting to a server located closer to you, as this will allow your data to be routed quicker. If for any reason your VPN seems to be slowing down your Android TV, you could try sharing your VPN connection from a VPN-compatible router or by setting up a hotspot on a Windows computer that is connected to the VPN.