The Best Roku VPNs of 2024
- Proton VPN: Best for Flexibility
- Surfshark: Best for Unlimited Connections
- hide.me: Best for Security
- VPN Unlimited: Best for Unlocking Geo-Restricted Content
- TunnelBear: Best for New Users
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Our team analyzed 20 VPN providers with 25 factors such as transparent pricing, number of server locations, the number of devices it can cover, access to customer support and customer ratings to organize this list of the five best VPN services. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Best for Flexibility
Proton VPN
4.5
Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Number of Servers
3,033
Free Version
Yes
Number of Connections
Up to 10
On Proton VPN's Website
3,033
Yes
Up to 10
Editor's Take
Proton VPN stands out as an excellent VPN choice to pair with Roku devices. Its seamless compatibility and user-friendly features make streaming content on Roku a breeze. The Switzerland-based VPN company provides users with a fast, reliable and safe product.
A fast VPN speed is essential for streaming shows without interruptions or buffering. Proton VPN has a network of more than 2,500 high-speed VPN servers offering connections of up to 10 Gbps. All paid plans include a dedicated VPN Accelerator, which the company’s website says improves speed performance by up to 400% when connecting to a VPN server over a long distance. The optimized connection speed will enhance streaming quality by reducing latency and ensuring uninterrupted access to your favorite shows and movies.
One disadvantage Proton VPN has is that it lacks a smart DNS needed to stream on Roku’s smart TV. Users who want to use Proton VPN to stream shows on Roku must manually set it up on the router. However, with clear setup instructions and robust router support, Proton VPN simplifies the process of integrating VPN protection with Roku.
Learn more: Read our full Proton VPN review.
Who should use it:
Anyone who wants a fast VPN to steam their favorite shows on Roku.
Pros & Cons
- VPN accelerator
- Alternative routing feature
- Tor over VPN feature
- Free version only allows for one connection
- Lacks Smart DNS
Best for Unlimited Connections
Surfshark
3.7
Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Number of Servers
3,200-plus
Free Version
No
Number of Connections
Unlimited
On Surfshark's Website
3,200-plus
No
Unlimited
Editor's Take
Surfshark emerges as a highly favorable VPN choice for Roku streaming because it includes a host of features that enhance the overall streaming experience. One of its standout qualities is its compatibility with a wide range of devices, including Roku, allowing users to easily secure their connections without any technical hitches. Surfshark not only supports manual configuration for home routers but also offers dedicated apps for Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire TV and Android TV platforms.
Another major advantage of choosing Surfshark is its ability to connect to unlimited devices. Users do not have to limit their streaming to a handful of essential devices. Instead, they are free to set up the VPN on nearly any device—from a smartphone or a router to a PC or Mac. Also with a robust network of more than 3,000 servers across 100-plus countries, Surfshark’s extensive reach allows users to bypass geo-restrictions to unlock content from around the world.
Learn more: Read our full Surfshark review.
Who should use it:
Surfshark is one of the few VPNs that allows users to connect to an unlimited number of devices. It is a great option for Roku users seeking to link multiple devices seamlessly.
Pros & Cons
- Has Smart DNS
- Unlimited connections
- Tor over VPN feature
- No dedicated router app
- Only top-tier plan includes data removal
Best for Security
hide.me
3.4
Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Number of Servers
2,100
Free Version
Yes
Number of Connections
10
On hide.me’s website
2,100
Yes
10
Editor's Take
With a comprehensive suite of security features, hide.me is an exceptional choice for users who prioritize privacy and security. The VPN’s security features include industry-leading encryption protocols including WireGuard, IKEv2 IPsec, IPv6, OpenVPN, SoftEther and SSTP. These features are designed to fortify data transmission and protect users against potential threats.
Other hide.me features include the kill switch, split tunneling and auto-connect feature, which activates whenever you connect to a distrustful Wi-Fi.
By strictly adhering to a no-logs policy, hide.me firmly prioritizes user privacy and guarantees the protection of online activities from any form of tracking or surveillance. Unlike certain VPN services, hide.me provides users with the assurance that their personal data and browsing history are not retained in any capacity. In contrast, VPN providers that maintain logs of online activities and payment information can be compelled by authorities to disclose such data. Thanks to hide.me’s robust no-logs approach, bolstered by secure payment processes through external providers, users can confidently avoid the risk of their information falling into the wrong hands. It not only openly discloses its privacy practices, but hide.me also offers an audited, third-party-verified no-logs certification. Leon Juranic, an independent security analyst from DefenseCode Ltd, has certified hide.me’s no activity logs policy.
Learn more: Read our full hide.me review.
Who should use it:
For users who want to stream Roku shows with a VPN company that puts a priority on privacy and security, hide.me is ideal.
Pros & Cons
- Offers free plan
- Has MultiHop and Stealth Guard
- Does not log payment information
- No Smart DNS feature
- Free version limited to 10GB
- No dedicated IP add-on
Best for Unlocking Geo-Restricted Content
VPN Unlimited
3.4
Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Number of Servers
3,000-plus
Free Version
No
Number of Connections
Five
Learn More
Read Forbes' Review
Editor's Take
VPN Unlimited offers robust security features such as strong encryption, a no-logs policy and a dedicated IP address to keep streaming activities safe and private. What makes VPN Unlimited stand out as an exceptional choice for Roku users primarily is its vast worldwide coverage. With more than 3,000 high-speed servers in more than 70 countries, VPN Unlimited provides access to geo-restricted content from around the world. This extensive global network means Roku users expand their entertainment options by unlocking content from different regions.
VPN Unlimited also gives users the ability to choose a preferred server location for optimal results. By selecting a server in a specific region, users can not only bypass geo-restrictions and gain access to a wider range of content unavailable in their area, but choosing a closer server can lead to faster connection speeds, reducing buffering and ensuring smoother streaming. Finally, the platform also includes a Smart DNS feature. This is crucial for accessing Roku because it allows users to bypass geo-restrictions without affecting internet speed.
Learn more: Read our full VPN Unlimited review.
Who should use it:
Thanks to its expansive global server coverage and robust bypassing capabilities, VPN Unlimited is an excellent choice for those aiming to access geo-restricted streaming content on Roku.
Pros & Cons
- Dedicated IP address
- Has Smart DNS feature
- Lifetime VPN subscription available
- Limited to five devices
- Expensive device upgrades
- Does not have Tor over VPN feature
Best for New Users
TunnelBear
3.4
Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Number of Servers
5,000-plus
Free Version
Yes
Number of Connections
Unlimited
Learn More
Read Forbes' Review
5,000-plus
Yes
Unlimited
Editor's Take
TunnelBear is another great VPN option for Roku users due to a combination of transparency, advanced features and a user-centric design. A standout quality of TunnelBear is its commitment to transparency. The company undergoes yearly third-party audits to ensure it’s upholding its privacy promises in order to give users peace of mind that their data is secure and their activities remain private. TunnelBear’s GhostBear feature disguises VPN traffic to make it appear as regular internet traffic. This allows users to bypass VPN blocks in order to access desired content on Roku without hassle.
One highlight that truly sets TunnelBear apart from some of its competitors is its user-friendly design. The VPN’s straightforward interface is renowned for its user-friendliness, solidifying its reputation as one of the most intuitive VPNs available on the market. The platform’s design makes it easy for even the least tech-savvy individuals to navigate and customize their VPN settings.
While TunnelBear has an impressive 5,000-plus servers, it only has around 40 server locations. The lack of geographical diversity might hinder the ability to unlock certain geo-restricted content.
Learn more: Read our full TunnelBear review.
Who should use it:
TunnelBear is an excellent choice for users looking to stream on Roku, especially for those new to VPNs. Its user-friendly interface creates an easy-to-navigate experience, making it a prime option for first-time VPN users.
Pros & Cons
- Connects to unlimited number of devices
- User-friendly interface
- Undergoes annual security audits
- Servers in limited number of countries
- Bandwidth on free plan too small for optimal streaming
- Does not offer dedicated IP address
How To Choose the Best Roku VPN
There are a few key factors to consider when it comes to choosing the best VPN to use for streaming content on Roku. You should first make sure the VPN is able to stream Roky by having either a Smart DNS feature or the ability to be installed on routers. Affordability, security and speed are also key factors when it comes to deciding which VPN is right for you.
Here are some details to watch out for:
- Setup Capabilities: Roku is not VPN-friendly, which means you need to find a VPN that has a Smart DNS feature or has the capability to be installed onto a router.
- Speed: Speed is crucial when choosing a VPN for Roku as it significantly affects streaming quality. A high-speed VPN ensures seamless streaming by reducing buffering and delivering crisp content.
- Security: A VPN’s security features are paramount to protect your data and maintain privacy. When choosing a VPN for streaming on Roku, look for a VPN that has robust security features including strong encryption protocols, a no-logs policy, kill switch and DNS leak protection.
- Price: When selecting a VPN for Roku streaming, it is advantageous to find a service that offers a solid price-to-value ratio that fits within your budget. Many providers offer free trials or money-back guarantees, allowing you to evaluate their worth before fully committing.
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1
NordVPN
Monthly Pricing (2 Year Plan)
$3.49 per month
# of Devices
6
Encryption
AES-256
2
Surfshark
Monthly Pricing (2 Year Plan)
$2.29
# of Devices
Unlimited
Encryption
AES-256
3
Norton
Monthly Pricing (2 year Plan)
$3.33/ month
Multi-device plans available
1, 5 and 10
Encryption
AES-256
4
Private Internet Access
Monthly Pricing (2 Year Plan)
$2.03
# of Devices
Unlimited
Encryption
AES-256
Methodology
To determine which VPN is best for Roku, the team at Forbes Advisor tested 20 VPNs. We compared them on 25 factors. We considered VPN privacy and security features, speed, number of servers and server locations, cost, simultaneous connectivity, expert experience, customer reviews and customer support. Here’s how we determined the best VPN for Roku.
- Pricing and Fees (15%): For pricing, we examined if the VPN displayed pricing on its website, monthly prices and if the VPN offered a free version or free trial. We also considered the lowest and highest price tiers. Pricing accounts for 15% of the VPN’s
- Mobile App (3%): We reviewed if the VPN had a mobile app or not. We gave 1.5% for a mobile Android app and 1.5% for a mobile iOS app.
- General Features (19%): We examined the VPN providers to see how robust their list of features are. We considered whether or not they offer anonymous browsing, DNS protection measures, dedicated IP, internet kill switch, split tunneling and multifactor authentications. These general VPN features that provide users with the security and privacy they seek when using the internet formed 19% of the total score.
- Additional Features (12.5%): We also considered qualities that might not be essential for a good Roku streaming experience, but are nice to have. Those additional features include the number of continents with servers, a no-logs policy, browser extension and the number of simultaneous connections. These additional features accounted for 12.5% of the total score.
- Reviews and Ratings (10%): We considered the VPNs’ average rating on third-party review sites including Trustpilot, G2 and Capterra to get a sense of overall customer satisfaction. This accounted for 10% of the score.
- Service and Support (5%): It is not uncommon for users of technology to need support in order to resolve issues or ask questions on how to navigate the VPN. We examined each VPN provider’s level of support and speed in which they respond to customer queries. We gave points to VPNs that had a live chat feature, a knowledge base, phone support and 24/7 customer support. This accounted for 5% of the overall score.
- Speeds (25.5%): A high-speed VPN is critical when streaming content on Roku. We compared each VPN’s average download speed and upload speed. A VPN’s average speed accounted for 25.5% of its score.
- Expert Score (10%): Apart from the hands-on experience from testing these VPNs, our experts considered additional criteria to determine the best VPNs for Roku users. They include standout features, ease of use, popularity and value for money. The expert analysis formed the final 10% of the total score.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do VPNs work on smart TVs?
Yes, VPNs can work on smart TVs. However, while some smart TVs have built-in VPN apps, many smart TVs are not automatically compatible with VPNs right out of the box. They require additional setup steps or installing the VPN on a supporting device such as a router.
How difficult is it to set up a VPN?
Setting up a VPN can range from straightforward to moderately complex depending on the platform and the specific VPN service. Forbes Advisor created a guide on How To Set Up a VPN on Any Device. Most VPN providers offer user-friendly apps for platforms like Windows, macOS, Android and iOS, making the setup process as simple as downloading the app, logging in and clicking “connect.”
Do Roku devices support VPNs?
No, Roku devices do not natively support VPN apps. However, you can use a VPN with Roku by setting up the VPN on your router or by creating a protected Wi-Fi hotspot through another device such as a computer. This allows the Roku device to connect to the internet through a VPN-protected network, bypassing geo-restrictions and enhancing privacy.
Do I need a VPN to use Roku?
While a VPN is not strictly necessary for using Roku, it can enhance your streaming experience. A VPN allows you to bypass geo-restrictions in order to access content that might be unavailable in your region. Additionally, it provides an extra layer of security and privacy to help keep your streaming activities private. If you want to access a wider range of content or maintain privacy, then a VPN is a valuable addition to your Roku setup.
