By
Kris Henges
Updated
43 minutes ago
Kris has been writing about technology for nearly a decade and got their start covering video games at RPG Site before branching out to PC, Android, and general tech coverage. After joining How-To Geek in 2021, they've been focused on helping readers find the best tech products for their needs—and even maybe save a few dollars in the process.
Outside work, Kris enjoys building custom keyboards, watching gaming speedruns, and working on creative writing.
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An easy way to get your favorite streaming services in one spot is with a Google TV box. It allows you to access Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+, and more with a press of a button. It won't provide access to all the latest movies and TV shows, though, as these streaming platforms have geo-restrictions, meaning you can only watch what's available in your region. That can be a drag, but a VPN can resolve the predicament.
Formerly known as Android TV, the Google TV box benefits from the right VPN service. Offering streaming-specific servers, fast streaming speeds, and user-friendly dedicated apps, the best VPNs for Google TV give you the keys to unlock shows from across the globe, right at home. Suffering from buffering issues? The fastest VPNs deliver buffer-free streaming with high-resolution quality.
Portions of this article may have been created in collaboration with our sponsors.
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Source: NordVPN
NordVPN
Best overall
Save up to 77% for Black Friday
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Source: Surfshark
Surfshark
Best value
Black Friday deals start at $1.99/month
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Source: ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN
Great, but expensive
Learn more at ExpressVPN
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Source: CyberGhost
CyberGhost
Streaming servers
Try with a 45-day money-back guarantee
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Mullvad
Security-first VPN
Always €5 a month
- See More
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Source: IPVanish
IPVanish
Unlimited connections
See more at IPVanish
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PureVPN
Affordable and reliable
Check plans at PureVPN
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Source: Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access
High-speed streaming
See at Private Internet Access
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Proton VPN
Focus on privacy
Check out available Proton bundle deals
Our top VPNs for Google TV
Best overall
Source: NordVPN
NordVPN
Promoted by NordVPN
Logging policy No-log policy Mobile app Android and iOS Number Of Servers 8,000+ Free Trial 30 day money-back guarantee Encryption RSA, AES-256, NordLynxNordVPN boasts the fastest speeds, making it the ideal choice for streaming on Google TV. It gives users access to virtually all streaming platforms and offers an array of security features to help you stay anonymous while connected. For Black Friday, you can get the Basic plan for 77% off if you sign up for two years, and you'll even get three extra months for free.
Supported platforms Windows, MacOS, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Apple TV, Android, iOS
4 Images
Pros & Cons
- Fastest speeds
- Varied security tools
- Located in Panama with no required data logs
- No kill switch on TV app
- Can be pricey
NordVPN consistently delivers a reliable streaming experience, making it the ideal companion for a Google TV box. The map-like user interface may not be everyone's cup of tea, but it's easy to choose the best region to start streaming.
NordVPN has nearly 6,000 servers in 60 countries, so there will always be a server offering great streaming potential. Sure, it could use a few more countries to access more international streaming libraries, but it boasts all the major regions that many will want access to.
Its NordLynx protocol delivers optimal connection speeds, which means any type of streaming comes with no buffering.
Furthermore, thanks to its reliable unblocking techniques, it unblocks streaming services including Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, YouTube TV, and more.
For security and features, the Google/Android TV app offers Threat Protection, split tunneling, AES 256-bit encryption, and a Meshnet feature to maintain secure connections between devices. It's important to note that its kill switch isn't available here. However, it offers up to six simultaneous connections on other platforms where it is available.
NordVPN is based in the privacy-friendly country of Panama and adheres to its credited zero-logs policy, supporting Perfect Forward Secrecy. For seamless access to various regions and advanced security features, this VPN is worth considering.
For Black Friday, you can save up to 77% on NordVPN's subscriptions. The Basic plan is down to just $2.99 a month, and the popular Plus plan is only $3.89 a month. You'll even get three extra months for free. There's no better time to sign up.
Best value
Source: Surfshark
Surfshark
Promoted by Surfshark
Logging policy No-logs policy Mobile app Android and iOS Number Of Servers 3,200+ Free Trial 7-day Encryption AES-256 encryptionSurfshark is for Android TV box owners looking to cut costs while retaining premium VPN features. It's affordable, offers unlimited device connections, and doesn't slack on speeds, security, and support. It's even more affordable during Black Friday, when you can get the Surfshark Starter plan for $1.99/month, plus three extra months for free.
Unique Server Regions 100 countries
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Pros & Cons
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- More than 3,200 servers in 100 countries
- British Virgin Islands jurisdiction
- Some streaming platform issues
- Not the fastest servers
With Surfshark, you're getting more than your money's worth for unblocking content on Android TV. A well-designed app, snappy internet speeds, and a wealth of features prove that a fantastic VPN doesn't need to be pricey.
This VPN is already affordable, but for Black Friday, it's even more so. You can pick up the Surfshark Basic plan for $1.99 a month, and the most feature-rich plan (Surfshark One+) is just $4.19 a month, 80% off its full price. You also get three months for free, so if you're looking to commit, now is the time.
It even goes a step further by offering unlimited device connections and 3,200 servers in 100 countries. That means your Google TV and any other devices can easily stream the latest shows in nearly any part of the world.
The app's security features are also a highlight, boasting AES 256-bit encryption, split tunneling, and its own CleanWeb blocks ads, trackers, and malware whenever you're connected.
While it has plenty of servers, not all are the fastest, and some may struggle to unblock streaming services.
However, its Dedicated IP feature offers a personal VPN IP address with a reliable connection that also avoids IP blacklisting, and its WireGuard protocol provides ample security and sufficient speeds for streaming. You'll still easily access Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, HBO Max, YouTube TV, and more.
Surfshark is based in the British Virgin Islands and has a credible no-logs policy, ensuring your information remains private.
Great, but expensive
Source: ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN
Offers speed and features
Logging policy No logs Mobile app Yes Number Of Servers More than 3,000 Price Category $12.95 per month; $59.94 per six months; $99.84 per year Free Trial 30-day free trialExpressVPN offers an exemplary service for Google & Android TV, with a well-designed app that's easy to use, excellent content streaming speeds, and unblocks all the major streaming platforms so that users can access international libraries. With over 3,000 servers in 105 countries and many advanced features, it's an excellent choice for streaming. Plus, you can use up to five devices simultaneously.
Encryption AES-256 Unique Server Regions 105 countries Supported platforms Android, ChromeOS, iOS, Linux, macOS, and Windows Server locations 105 countries Pros & Cons- Lightning-fast speeds
- Advanced security features
- British Virgin Islands jurisdiction
- Can be expensive
ExpressVPN takes the crown with its all-encompassing app for Google TV and Android TV. It's easy to set up and simple to navigate.
It includes numerous features, such as a kill switch, a Threat Manager feature to block trackers, and multiple security protocols, including its own superfast Lightway protocol. You'll get the same experience that it delivers to other platforms, and it also offers up to five simultaneous device connections.
Its list of over 3,000 servers in 105 countries means Android TV users get access to multiple international TV services and streaming platforms, and it is proven to unblock geo-restricted streaming libraries on popular services, such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+, Hulu, HBO Mac, BBC iPlayer, and plenty more.
Fast server speeds also mean seamless HD and 4K streams, and even if one server isn't working as it should, it's simple to switch to another reliable server to continue binging.
ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands, meaning it's not subject to data retention laws.
There's also a strict no-logs policy that has passed multiple security audits and boasts Perfect Forward Secrecy, meaning all your encrypted data can't be captured and decrypted by threat actors. It's not the most affordable VPN service, but you'll get what you pay for.
Streaming servers
Source: CyberGhost
CyberGhost
Specialized servers for streaming
Logging policy No-Logs Policy Mobile app Android and iOS Number Of Servers 125 Free Trial 45 day Money-Back Guarantee Encryption AES 256-bitCyberGhost is a brilliant VPN option for Android TVs, and it's not just thanks to its specific streaming servers. Boasting over 11,600 servers in 100 countries, lightning-fast speeds with its WireGuard protocol, and a great selection of security features, you'll be accessing geo-blocked content anonymously in no time. Even better, its 45-day money-back guarantee gives users plenty of time to see what it can do.
Supported platforms Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Chrome, Firefox Server locations 100 countries
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Pros & Cons
- Servers made for streaming
- More than 9,000 servers in 91 countries
- 45-day free trial
- Could use more features
CyberGhost offers plenty of Android TV perks, but its most appealing one is its optimized servers for streaming.
These are constantly tested to ensure everything is in order, and only made better by hosting over 11,600 servers in 100 countries. Looking to binge a whole series on Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and more? CyberGhost has the servers for you.
You can expect smooth streaming of shows and games with its speedy WireGuard protocol and a range of protection options, including a kill switch, split tunneling, and DNS leak protection.
While there's room for more features, many will find everything they need to start unblocking geo-restricted services.
As a cherry on top, its affordable two-year subscription plan makes this an inexpensive option compared to other VPNs on this list. If you're not convinced, the 45-day money-back guarantee offers enough time to make the most of it.
CyberGhost VPN will keep your data safe with its credited no-logs policy and Romania jurisdiction – a privacy-friendly country outside the Five Eyes alliance.
Security-first VPN
Mullvad
Excellent security, limited network of servers
Logging policy No-Logs Policy Mobile app Android and iOS Free Trial No Supported platforms Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, FirefoxMullvad VPN delivers great value with fast speeds, advanced features like split tunneling and Multi-hop, and a strong focus on privacy. Its simple interface is user-friendly, but its smaller server network of 647 servers in 47 countries and limited success with unblocking some streaming services are notable drawbacks. For privacy-first users, the Sweden-based VPN service remains a solid choice.
Pros & Cons- Excellent focus on privacy and security
- User friendly interface
- Fast speeds
- No free trial
- Limited number of servers
- Might not be able to bypass all streaming services
If you're after a VPN that's simple, secure, and affordable, Mullvad will be your perfect match.
Priced at €5 (about $5.30) a month, its no-fuss pricing is as straightforward as it gets. There are no discounts for yearly plans; just one flat rate. It's fast, reliable, and works across a variety of devices, making it a solid choice for streaming, browsing, or anything in between.
Mullvad's claim to fame is its commitment to privacy. With a strict no-logs policy and zero personal details required to sign up (all you need is an anonymous ID number), it keeps your data as private as possible.
Based in Sweden, a country with strong privacy laws, Mullvad backs its promise with features such as a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and IPv6 support, providing you with peace of mind in a digital world that's anything but private.
If you're all about privacy and don’t need the widest server network, Mullvad delivers what you need. Furthermore, Mullvad's Android TV app enables easy installation and operation of the VPN service on any Android TV streaming device or Android TV-based television.
Unlimited connections
Source: IPVanish
IPVanish
Affordable alternative
Logging policy No-Logs Policy Mobile app Android and iOS Number Of Servers 2400+ Free Trial 30 day Money-Back Guarantee Supported platforms Windows, macOS, ChromeOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Apple TVIPVanish is a top-tier VPN that works well with Google TV, with a slick, well-designed app that's simple to navigate. Its over 2,200 servers in 51 countries are well-maintained, allowing fast speeds and access to popular streaming platforms. Plus, it offers no device limit with an affordable price tag. Its U.S. jurisdiction isn't ideal, but the verified no-logs policy backs it up.
Server locations 140+ countries Pros & Cons- Easy-to-navigate TV app
- No device limit
- Reliable servers for streaming
- United States jurisdiction
- Some trouble with Netflix libraries
For value, IPVanish knocks it out of the park. With unlimited device connections and low-cost subscription plans, you get a lot of bang for your buck.
No sacrifices are made here; this VPN offers reliable unblocking techniques, stable internet speeds, and various security tools to help you stay under the radar.
The Google/Android TV app itself is easy to navigate and provides a shortlist of your favorite VPN servers for quick access. The nifty OpenVPN Scramble can trick geo-restricted regions that block VPNs into thinking you're not using a VPN.
Throw in its kill switch and split tunneling, and there are plenty of ways to get around annoying platform blocks.
Some region-specific Netflix libraries are more challenging to access. However, a VPN can still provide access to Amazon Prime, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and many more streaming services to watch content on. With 2,200 servers in 51 countries, though, other VPNs provide a wider array of regions to connect to.
While IPVanish has a no-logs policy verified by a third-party cybersecurity company, it's also based in the U.S. This means a government entity can obtain and share its private information in certain circumstances.
If you're not fussed by this, IPVanish is a worthy choice for Android TV.
Affordable and reliable
PureVPN
Plentiful servers
Mobile app Android and iOS Number Of Servers 6000+ Free Trial 31 day Money-Back Guarantee Encryption WireGuard Supported platforms Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, FirefoxPureVPN makes a strong case for being a worthy VPN for your TV, featuring over 6,500 servers in over 70 countries and speedy 20GB/s connections for lag-free streaming. It's excellent at unblocking many major streaming services, but it has trouble getting past certain platforms. However, with its extra security features and easy-to-use app, it's a solid option for Android or Google TV.
Server locations 80+ locations Pros & Cons- Great Android TV app
- 6,500 servers in over 70 countries
- British Virgin Island jurisdiction
- Can't unblock some streaming services
- Unbalanced connections
PureVPN is another value-for-money VPN that works great with Android TV.
It ticks all the right boxes for any streaming viewer's needs: ultrafast 20GB/s connection speeds, a well-presented app design (thanks to a recent revamp), and tools to get past the toughest region-restricted blocks.
Boasting over 6,500 servers in over 70 countries, there's an ample selection of regions to choose from. Servers are also kept up to scratch, so any server issues will be fixed post-haste.
Moreover, its Port Forwarding feature provides access to websites and services that are unavailable due to strict region-specific regulations, unlocking a world of content.
However, it is known to struggle with accessing some streaming platforms in certain countries, but it still delivers services such as Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, and others.
Its no-logs policy has been certified by one of the world’s top audit firms, and it's based in the privacy-friendly British Virgin Islands, like the top pick on our list.
Furthermore, its "always-on" system automatically secures a VPN connection when any internet activity is performed, ensuring your data stays private.
High-speed streaming
Source: Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access
Master at unblocking
Logging policy No-Logs Policy Mobile app Android and iOS Free Trial 30 day Money-Back Guarantee Encryption AES 128-bit or 256-bit Supported platforms Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, OperaPIA (Private Internet Access) is a master at unblocking geo-restricted content with stable internet speeds for streaming. Its checklist of perks is generous: over 35,000 servers in 91 countries, unlimited device connections, fast connection speeds, and plenty of advanced security tools. It's based in the U.S., so those concerned about privacy may want to look elsewhere.
Server locations 91 countries Pros & Cons- 35,000 servers in 84 countries
- Reliable internet speeds
- Unlimited device connections
- U.S. jurisdiction
- No-frills app
PIA (Private Internet Access) easily bypasses nearly all geo-restricted content, which is a significant draw for any TV streaming service.
It doesn't have the most appealing app design, but that's easy to get over when there are speedy connections, over 35,000 servers in 91 countries, and a commendable list of security features on offer. You can expect to stream the latest movies and TV shows on the likes of Netflix, Disney+, Paramount+, Amazon Prime Video, and more without trouble.
There are 10GB/s and the always-reliable WireGuard protocol, which ensures stable streams. It also offers a selection of advanced security features, such as split tunneling, a kill switch, anonymous cryptocurrency payments, and an email breach scanner to check if your email address has been compromised in a data breach.
PIA is an open-source VPN based in the U.S. but has a strict no-logs policy, which has been reviewed and approved by an independent audit firm.
Focus on privacy
Proton VPN
Optimal privacy
Logging policy No-Logs Policy Mobile app Android and iOS Number Of Servers 13,000+ Free Trial Free version with limited features Encryption AES-256, ChaCha20Proton VPN makes security a priority, which is a good fit for Android TV users in need of privacy. While bundled with security features like a kill switch, split tunneling, a NetShield ad blocker, and more, it also breezes past geo-blocked content in the 71 countries where it has servers, which is ideal for any international streams. While speeds could be better, it will still provide stable connections to watch content.
Supported platforms Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Chromebook, Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV Server locations 120+ countries
5 Images
Pros & Cons
- Top-notch security features
- 3,200 servers in 71 countries
- Switzerland jurisdiction
- Subpar speeds
- Free-tier doesn't unblock streaming platforms
Proton VPN is an open-source VPN service that prioritizes privacy, as evidenced by its comprehensive list of features, including a kill switch, split tunneling, Secure Core, which routes your traffic through multiple servers, a NetShield ad blocker, and more.
Not only does this help keep your data secure, but it also sneaks past strict geo-blocked content — an advantage for any Google TV box.
While it's a shame its free-tier subscription plan doesn't unblock streaming platforms, its paid Proton VPN Plus plan gives you access to Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and more. Its connection speeds aren't the best of the bunch, but with 3,217 servers in 71 countries and reliable 10GB/s GB/s-capable servers, expect smooth streaming on most services.
The VPN also shares a similar map interface with NordVPN, but it lets you quickly access the countries and servers you want, along with a simple country list for quick connections. Furthermore, it offers a favorite list to save the VPN servers you often use.
As the creators of Proton Mail, the trustworthy end-to-end encryption email service, Proton VPN ensures that your online presence remains anonymous.
Furthermore, it operates under Swiss jurisdiction and adheres to a no-logs policy, which third-party professionals have fully audited.
What to look for in a VPN for Android and Google TV
A VPN requires select key features to make the most out of Google TV. Of course, you'll want advanced security tools to spoof your location and encrypt your traffic, but top-grade speeds and a wide selection of servers are the main factors to look out for. After all, if there's a show worth binging, it deserves a lag-free viewing experience with easy availability.
The best VPNs for streaming typically have thousands of servers located in countries worldwide, and these servers are regularly updated to ensure they stay ahead of a streaming service's VPN-blocking techniques.
With a vast network of servers, you can connect to any region and access a wealth of TV shows and movies. The more servers and countries a VPN offers, the better it will be at providing your TV with global access to content.
Furthermore, these servers are optimized for speed. From 10GB/s connection speeds to their security protocols, the proper VPNs offer a smooth, buffer-free viewing experience without compromising your usual internet speeds.
Can I use a free VPN with Google TV?
There's a wide selection of VPN apps available on the Google Play Store, but not all can be trusted (especially free VPNs). The best VPNs are based in privacy-friendly countries, have a credible no-logs policy, and come with handy bonus features worth investing in — unlike SuperVPN, which exposed 360 million users' data.
If you prefer to test out a VPN before making a purchase, we recommend taking advantage of its 30-day free trial.
The best Google TV VPNs
ExpressVPN offers everything you need. Along with a vast server network that can easily bypass strict streaming services, its own Lightway protocol delivers blazing-fast connections that don't impede internet speeds. Moreover, its Google TV app makes navigation easy.
Need a little extra speed? NordVPN is right up your alley. With even more servers and its exclusive NordLynx protocol, you can expect to whizz through shows with high-quality resolution. Although it doesn't offer as many countries, the available regions have numerous servers, making bypassing geo-restrictions a breeze.
If affordability is what you're after, Surfshark won't disappoint. With unlimited simultaneous devices, your whole household can stream from its selection of 100 countries, making it well worth the low-cost subscription price, especially if you have more than just a Google TV device to stream content on.
Best overall
Source: NordVPN
NordVPN
Promoted by NordVPN
Logging policy No-log policy Mobile app Android and iOS Number Of Servers 8,000+ Free Trial 30 day money-back guarantee Encryption RSA, AES-256, NordLynxNordVPN boasts the fastest speeds, making it the ideal choice for streaming on Google TV. It gives users access to virtually all streaming platforms and offers an array of security features to help you stay anonymous while connected. With over 5,900 servers in 60 countries, there will always be a dependable server connection, but it may not have all the regions you're looking for.
Supported platforms Windows, MacOS, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Apple TV, Android, iOS
4 Images
Pros & Cons
- Fastest speeds
- Varied security tools
- Located in Panama with no required data logs
- No kill switch on TV app
- Can be pricey
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