Apple TV is a popular streaming device that allows users to watch their favorite TV shows, movies, and other entertainment content from various sources. However, due to geo-restrictions and other limitations, certain content may not be available in certain regions. This is where a virtual private network comes in handy.
Using a VPN, you can unlock unlimited entertainment on your Apple TV by accessing content unavailable in your region. A VPN can also protect your online privacy and security by encrypting your internet traffic and hiding your IP address.
This article will discuss the best VPNs for Apple TV to help unlock unlimited entertainment and protect your privacy and security.
Why do you need a VPN for Apple TV?
The Apple TV is one of the industry’s most reliable streaming devices. But one of the problems most users run into is that if they take their Apple TV out of the country where their iTunes account is registered, they cannot use Apple TV due to geographic restrictions on the content. This is because iTunes content varies in different countries.
This problem can be overcome by using a VPN service. By using a VPN with your Apple TV, you are virtually relocated to your chosen place on the globe, and from there, you can watch all your favorite global content, including Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime, Hulu, BBC, ESPN, and much more!
Top 7 VPNs for Apple TV
We have compiled the list of the top 7 VPNs for Apple TV below, and their pros and cons are included so you can choose the VPN that best suits you.
1. ExpressVPN:
ExpressVPN has over 2000 servers spread across 148 different locations. It has one of the best connection speeds in the industry, with added security features. Plus, their 24/7 live chat support can help you determine the best server to connect to with your streaming service.
ExpressVPN has a new feature called MediaStreamer that lets you unblock geo-locked content without connecting to a VPN. You can even use it without connecting to their VPN – it’s up to you! This is especially clutch for Apple TV owners who can change their DNS settings.
But if you need even more firepower with your Apple TV, ExpressVPN’s got you covered. They have custom router firmware that you can flash for free if your router’s compatible. Or, if you’re lazy, you can buy a pre-flashed router straight from ExpressVPN. This firmware is set up to work with any ExpressVPN server, and it’s way easier to use than the other competitors, the DD-WRT and Tomato-based firmware.
Pros:
- Seamless connection with Apple TV
- High and stable connection speeds
- AES-256 encryption
Cons:
- No multi-hop
- No phone support
- Slightly pricier than other options
2. NordVPN:
NordVPN is the industry’s leading VPN for Apple TV, according to us. They have a strong track record with Amazon Prime, Hulu, Netflix, Disney+, HBO, ESPN, and many other streaming services. They have over 5000 different servers, and each server is encrypted with AES-256 encryption.
NordVPN has a strict no-logs policy, so their privacy game is also vital, paired with military-grade encryption. NordVPN client has DNS leak protection and a kill switch to keep your IP hidden while you watch your favorite shows on Apple TV.
Pre-flashed DD-WRT routers are also provided to hook up to your Apple TV and come pre-configured with all their servers. NordVPN also provides a simple step-by-step Smart DNS guide for Apple TV users, allowing you to easily set it up with your Apple TV and start streaming geo-restricted content seamlessly!
Pros:
- Strict no-logs policy
- Breakneck speeds
- Solid encryption with an option to use Double VPN
Cons:
- Can only share VPN connections from Windows, not Macs
- The user interface is a bit clustered
- Only six simultaneous connections
3. PureVPN:
PureVPN has recently updated its user interface to make it beginner friendly and more appealing. Now, more than ever, they are entirely focused on security protocols and are more robust in the VPN industry. PureVPN is a solid choice for Apple TV because of its zero-logging policy, strong encryption techniques, and stable and reliable connection speeds.
PureVPN hides your IP using a remote server so that IP address trackers cannot track you while enjoying your favorite content on Apple TV. One of the significant advantages of PureVPN is that they have servers dedicated to P2P traffic, which is perfect for streaming content on Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, Amazon Prime, BBC, and other services.
With all those features and the solid encryption they provide, PureVPN is not the wrong choice if you use Apple TV.
Pros:
- Dedicated connection servers
- No log policy
- Easy-to-use interface
Cons:
- No kill switch feature
4. Surfshark:
Surfshark covered you with a VPN and a smartDNS service in their standard package. You can set up the VPN on your router or switch up your Apple TV’s DNS servers to use Surfshark’s DNS servers. The DNS option doesn’t give you as much security as the VPN, but it lets you stream Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu easily from the comfort of your home.
To get on the Smart DNS service, check your IP address on the Surfshark website while on the same wifi network as your Apple TV.
And get this – Surfshark lets you connect all your devices simultaneously, with no limits! Perfect if you want to split the bill with your family or friends. And if you need help, their live chat support is open 24/7.
Pros:
- Unlimited connection devices
- Standalone smart DNS service
- Stable connection speeds
Cons:
- A comparatively small amount of servers
- Irregularly slow servers
5. VyprVPN:
VyprVPN is an old-hand VPN service provider with a good history with streaming sites like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, Disney+, and others. And if you reside in China and want to use Apple TV, VyprVPN is one of the best choices because it is easy to bypass the Great Firewall using VyprVPN.
VyprVPN features solid high-end encryption of your private information and an encrypted DNS service, which can unblock Apple TV if you live in a geographically restricted location. This lets you watch all your favorite content while keeping your IP address hidden.
VyprVPN offers a custom application for routers running Tomato firmware. They have explained how to set up OpenVPN on DD-WRT for Apple TV on their website. Pre-flashed routers are also provided.
Pros:
- Seamless connection with Apple TV
- Easily unblock geo-restricted content
- High-end data encryption
Cons:
- Slightly pricier
- No cryptocurrency payment option
6. CyberGhost:
CyberGhost is one of the most affordable choices in this list of top VPNs for Apple TV, with a three-year plan for only $2.25 per month. CyberGhost VPN is based in Romania, and as Romania is not a member of Five Eyes, they cannot be forced to provide the government with your information. So CyberGhost is your best bet if you want a privacy-centric VPN for your Apple TV.
They also offer AES-256-bit encryption, the industry standard for solid data encryption. To connect CyberGhost to your Apple TV, you can add your Apple TV’s IP address in the VPN’s DNS settings. The process is highly seamless, and within no time, you can watch all your favorite shows on your Apple TV from any location in the world!
Pros:
- Split tunneling
- OpenVPN protocol
- Very cheap compared to other VPNs
Cons:
- Static IP address
- Seven simultaneous connections allowed
- Servers in 50 countries only
7. PrivateVPN:
PrivateVPN is trying to make a name for itself in the jam-packed VPN industry by offering a wicked-fast service that works seamlessly with US Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, and many other streaming channels. They are a decent option for Apple TVs. They have fewer servers than alternatives, but they offer many other things.
You can hook up six devices on one account and get solid encryption whenever you connect. And PrivateVPN follows a strict no-logs policy, so your data is safe.
If you want to set up PrivateVPN on a Tomato or DD-WRT router on your Apple TV, they’ve got some solid tutorials on their website. They even started using their own DNS servers instead of public ones, which is way better, but you must pair them with their VPN service.
Pros:
- Decent streaming speeds for Apple TV
- Privacy and security are entirely focused
- Works well with streaming services
Cons:
- A bit fewer server selection options
- No live chat support
How to Setup a VPN on Apple TV
Setting up a VPN on an Apple TV can be tricky since Apple TV does not natively support VPN. However, you can still use a VPN on your Apple TV by following these steps:
- Sign up for a VPN service: You must subscribe to a VPN service that supports setting up the VPN on your router.
- Set up the VPN on your router: Once you’ve signed up for a VPN service, you’ll need to set up the VPN on your router. The exact steps for setting up a VPN on your router will vary depending on your router and VPN service, but most VPN services provide detailed instructions on how to do this.
- Connect your Apple TV to the VPN: After setting up the VPN on your router, all devices connected to your router, including your Apple TV, will be automatically connected to the VPN. To check if your Apple TV is connected to the VPN, you can use a website like whatismyip.com to see if your IP address matches the location of your VPN server.
Setting up a VPN on your router will route all your internet traffic through the VPN, so you may experience slower internet speeds. However, this is a small trade-off for the added security and privacy benefits of using a VPN.
In conclusion, all the VPNs listed above can be used for a comfortable, seamless, and secure Apple TV experience while watching your favorite
