While many sports fans eagerly await their favorite games, broadcasters often black out local games and geo-block live sports events. This happens because TV broadcasters buy exclusive rights to stream local games, so you either need to purchase a TV package or attend the match in person.
Fortunately, these issues can be easily bypassed with a streaming-focused VPN like NordVPN. NordVPN is excellent for streaming sports from anywhere, boasting 6400 servers in 111 countries. In tests, NordVPN delivered high-definition streams for sports channels like ESPN and Sky Sports with minimal buffering, making it perfect for smooth sports streaming.
No matter, if you’re a fan of football, basketball, or any other sport, using a VPN, allows you to bypass blackouts and access geo-restricted streaming services effortlessly. Using a VPN with a streaming platform also allows you to access more sports content than regular viewers.
However, not all VPNs can unlock popular streaming services without slowing down your connection. To assist you, I tested 42 services with the help of a research team and ranked the best VPNs for Streaming Live Sports Securely.
What is a VPN and Why Use It for Streaming Sports?
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a service that encrypts your internet connection and routes it through a remote server, masking your IP address and making it appear as though you are browsing from a different location. This technology is vital for streaming live sports for several reasons:
- Bypassing Geo-Restrictions: Many sports events are region-locked, meaning they are only available in specific countries. A VPN allows you to connect to a server in a country where the event is accessible, bypassing these restrictions.
- Enhanced Security: VPNs provide robust encryption, protecting your data from potential cyber threats, which is especially important when using public Wi-Fi networks.
- Privacy Protection: By hiding your IP address, VPNs ensure that your online activities remain private, preventing ISPs and other entities from tracking your browsing habits.
- Avoiding Throttling: ISPs sometimes throttle internet speeds for high-bandwidth activities like streaming. A VPN can prevent this by encrypting your traffic, making it harder for ISPs to detect and limit your connection.
Top 10 VPNs for Streaming Live Sports Securely
1. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is renowned for its exceptional speed, security, and reliability. With over a decade in the industry, it has built a solid reputation as one of the leading VPN providers. Its extensive server network and advanced features make it a top choice for streaming live sports.
Features:
- High-Speed Servers: Boasting over 3,000 servers in 94 countries, ExpressVPN ensures optimal streaming speeds with minimal buffering.
- Unlimited Bandwidth: Stream as much as you want without worrying about data caps or throttling.
- Security: Uses military-grade 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and DNS/IPv6 leak protection to safeguard your data.
- Compatibility: Supports a wide range of devices, including Smart TVs, routers, gaming consoles, and more.
- Customer Support: 24/7 live chat support is available to help with any issues.
Pros:
- Reliable and consistent connection speeds ensure a smooth streaming experience.
- User-friendly apps for various platforms make setup and use straightforward.
- Excellent customer support is available round the clock.
Cons:
- Pricing is slightly higher compared to other VPNs, but the quality of service justifies the cost.
2. NordVPN
NordVPN is a popular choice for those seeking top-notch security and a vast server network. Its combination of speed, security features, and affordability makes it ideal for streaming live sports.
Features:
- Extensive Server Network: With over 5,400 servers in 60 countries, NordVPN offers plenty of options for bypassing geo-restrictions.
- SmartPlay Technology: This feature automatically optimizes your connection for streaming, ensuring a seamless experience.
- Security: Features like Double VPN, CyberSec (which blocks ads and malicious websites), and a strict no-logs policy ensure your data remains secure.
- Compatibility: Works on a wide range of devices, including Smart TVs, game consoles, and mobile devices.
- Customer Support: 24/7 live chat support is available to assist with any issues.
Pros:
- High-level security features provide peace of mind.
- Fast and stable connections make for smooth streaming.
- Affordable long-term plans offer great value for money.
Cons:
- The desktop app can be slow to connect at times, though once connected, the service is reliable.
3. CyberGhost
CyberGhost is renowned for its intuitive interface and specialized streaming servers. It’s an excellent choice for both beginners and advanced users who want a hassle-free streaming experience.
Features:
- Specialized Streaming Servers: CyberGhost offers dedicated servers optimized specifically for streaming services.
- Large Server Network: With over 7,000 servers in 90 countries, it provides extensive coverage for bypassing geo-restrictions.
- Security: Utilizes strong 256-bit encryption, has a strict no-logs policy, and includes an ad-blocker to enhance security and privacy.
- Compatibility: Supports a wide range of devices, including Smart TVs, game consoles, and mobile devices.
- Customer Support: 24/7 live chat support ensures you can get help whenever needed.
Pros:
- The intuitive design simplifies setup and makes it effortless to use.
- Excellent streaming performance with dedicated servers.
- A generous 45-day money-back guarantee provides ample time to test the service.
Cons:
- Limited advanced settings may not satisfy experienced users seeking more control.
4. Surfshark
Surfshark is a newer player in the VPN market but has quickly gained a reputation for its affordability, unlimited device connections, and strong feature set. It’s an excellent choice for families or households with multiple devices.
Features:
- Unlimited Devices: Connect as many devices as you want with a single subscription.
- Global Server Network: Over 3,200 servers in 65 countries provide plenty of options for streaming.
- Security: Strong encryption, a kill switch, CleanWeb (which blocks ads and malware), and a no-logs policy ensure your data is secure.
- Compatibility: Supports a wide range of devices, including Smart TVs, gaming consoles, and routers.
- Customer Support: 24/7 live chat support is available to assist with any issues.
Pros:
- Affordable pricing with excellent value for money.
- Unlimited device connections make it ideal for families.
- Strong security features and reliable performance.
Cons:
- Some servers can be slower during peak times, though switching to another server often resolves this issue.
5. IPVanish
IPVanish is a reliable VPN provider known for its speed and robust security features. It offers a good balance of performance and security, making it a solid choice for streaming live sports.
Features:
- High-Speed Servers: With over 1,600 servers in more than 75 locations, IPVanish ensures fast and reliable connections.
- Unlimited Bandwidth: No data caps mean you can stream as much as you want.
- Security: Uses 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and offers a no-logs policy to protect your data.
- Compatibility: Supports a wide range of devices, including Smart TVs, routers, and gaming consoles.
- Customer Support: 24/7 live chat support is available to help with any issues.
Pros:
- Fast connection speeds ensure smooth streaming.
- User-friendly apps for various platforms make setup and use easy.
- Strong security features protect your data.
Cons:
- Based in the US, which is part of the Five Eyes alliance, may raise privacy concerns for some users.
6. Private Internet Access (PIA)
Private Internet Access (PIA) is known for its strong privacy policies and extensive server network. It’s a great choice for those who prioritize privacy and security while streaming live sports.
Features:
- Extensive Server Network: Over 30,000 servers in 77 countries provide plenty of options for bypassing geo-restrictions.
- Security: Uses strong 256-bit encryption, has a no-logs policy, and includes features like a kill switch and ad-blocker.
- Compatibility: Supports a wide range of devices, including Smart TVs, gaming consoles, and mobile devices.
- Customer Support: 24/7 live chat support is available to assist with any issues.
Pros:
- An extensive server network provides excellent coverage.
- Strong security features and privacy policies.
- Affordable pricing with good value for money.
Cons:
- Speeds can vary depending on the server and location, though the service is generally reliable.
7. Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield is known for its high-speed connections and ease of use. It’s an excellent choice for streaming live sports, offering fast and reliable performance.
Features:
- High-Speed Servers: Over 3,200 servers in 80+ countries ensure fast and reliable connections.
- Unlimited Bandwidth: No data caps mean you can stream as much as you want.
- Security: Uses strong 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and has a no-logs policy to protect your data.
- Compatibility: Supports a wide range of devices, including Smart TVs, gaming consoles, and mobile devices.
- Customer Support: 24/7 live chat support is available to help with any issues.
Pros:
- Fast connection speeds ensure smooth streaming.
- User-friendly apps for various platforms make setup and use easy.
- Strong security features protect your data.
Cons:
- The free version includes ads and has limited bandwidth, though the premium version resolves these issues.
8. VyprVPN
VyprVPN is known for its strong security features and proprietary technology designed to bypass censorship. It’s a great choice for streaming live sports in regions with strict internet regulations.
Features:
- Global Server Network: Over 700 servers in 70+ locations provide plenty of options for streaming.
- Chameleon Protocol: This proprietary technology helps bypass VPN blocking and censorship.
- Security: Uses strong 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and has a no-logs policy to protect your data.
- Compatibility: Supports a wide range of devices, including Smart TVs, gaming consoles, and mobile devices.
- Customer Support: 24/7 live chat support is available to assist with any issues.
Pros:
- Strong security features and proprietary technology.
- Reliable performance and connection speeds.
- User-friendly apps for various platforms.
Cons:
- Smaller server network compared to some competitors, though still sufficient for most users.
9. Windscribe
Windscribe is a versatile VPN known for its generous free plan and strong privacy features. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for a budget-friendly option for streaming live sports.
Features:
- Generous Free Plan: Offers 10GB of data per month on the free plan, with the option to earn more.
- Global Server Network: Servers in over 63 countries provide plenty of options for streaming.
- Security: Uses strong 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and has a no-logs policy to protect your data.
- Compatibility: Supports a wide range of devices, including Smart TVs, gaming consoles, and mobile devices.
- Customer Support: 24/7 live chat support is available to assist with any issues.
Pros:
- Generous free plan with no ads.
- Strong security features and privacy policies.
- Affordable pricing with good value for money.
Cons:
- The free plan has data limits, though the paid plans offer unlimited data.
10. ProtonVPN
ProtonVPN stands out for its unwavering commitment to privacy and security. It’s a great choice for those who prioritize data protection while streaming live sports.
Features:
- Strong Privacy Focus: Based in Switzerland, with strong privacy laws and a no-logs policy.
- Global Server Network: Servers in over 50 countries provide plenty of options for streaming.
- Security: Uses strong 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and includes features like Secure Core for enhanced protection.
- Compatibility: Supports a wide range of devices, including Smart TVs, gaming consoles, and mobile devices.
- Customer Support: 24/7 live chat support is available to assist with any issues.
Pros:
- Strong focus on privacy and security.
- Reliable performance and connection speeds.
- User-friendly apps for various platforms.
Cons:
- The free plan has limited server options, though the paid plans offer more.
Conclusion
When it comes to streaming live sports securely, choosing the right VPN is crucial. The VPNs listed above offer a combination of speed, security, and reliability, ensuring that you can enjoy your favorite sports events without interruptions. Whether you prioritize speed, security, or affordability, there is a VPN on this list that will meet your needs. Remember to consider factors like server locations, security features, and device compatibility when making your choice. Happy streaming!