Unlock Kodi add-ons securely all over the world with the best VPN for Kodi.
For most people, Kodi is the media player of choice. It not only offers a wide range of streaming add-ons but is also completely free. For example, Kodi can allow you to stream NFL from anywhere in the world for free by just installing a simple add-on to access channels like the NFL Network.
However, most popular Kodi add-ons are geo-restricted and are only available to people living in the United States.
This is where a VPN comes in.
Like most streaming platforms, Kodi is also affected by geo-blocks. Some add-ons are only accessible in a few countries only. To have unrestricted access to this media streaming platform, many users resort to using the best Kodi VPNs.
Apart from circumventing geo-blocks, a VPN can also help your stream with no buffering and bypassing ISP throttling. The best VPN services also protect your online identity while you are using Kodi, to keep your internet activity safe from snooping.
VPNs are great for Kodi streamers, but finding a reliable provider is not so easy with so many options available in the market. To help you choose one, we at TheVPNExperts have rounded up the 7 top VPNs for Kodi available today.
Quick Overview of the Best Kodi VPNs
Here is a summary of the best VPN services for Kodi in 2023:
- Surfshark – Best Kodi VPN with unlimited simultaneous connections.
- ExpressVPN – Fastest VPN for Kodi with ultra-fast speed on all its servers.
- NordVPN – Most secure VPN for Kodi with thousands of servers.
- IPVanish – Reliable VPN for Kodi streaming with great features.
- CyberGhost – Easy-to-use Kodi VPN for beginners.
- Private Internet Access – The largest server network VPN for Kodi.
- Hotspot Shield – Speedy Kodi VPN with excellent streaming performance.
Detailed Analysis of the Best VPN for Kodi
In order to help you find the best Kodi VPN service, we have tested more than a dozen different VPNs on various criteria. After testing, seven providers stood out, offering an impressive server network, speed, and overall performance. You can find the details of these VPNs below.
Rank | Best Kodi VPN | Simultaneous Connections | Cheapest plan | Money-back guarantee |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Surfshark | Unlimited | $2.30/mo | 30 Days |
2 | ExpressVPN | 5 | $6.67/mo | 30 Days |
3 | NordVPN | 6 | $5.29/mo | 30 Days |
4 | IPVanish | Unlimited | $3.66/mo | 30 Days |
5 | CyberGhost | 7 | $2.29/mo | 45 Days |
6 | Private Internet Access | 10 | $2.03/mo | 30 Days |
7 | Hotspot Shield | 5 | $7.99/mo | 45 Days |
1. Surfshark – Overall Best VPN for Kodi
Surfshark is a popular choice among Kodi users because of its unlimited device support and affordable price tag.
With Surfshark, you get to choose from 3200+ servers in 65 countries. All these servers are great for unblocking streaming services such as Netflix, Disney+ Hotstar, DAZN, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and others. Basically, Surfshark works with all major Kodi add-ons that might be blocked in your country.
In terms of speed, Surfshark offers fast connection speeds on both long-distance and nearby servers. For that, we have to thank its WireGuard protocol.
On our base connection of 100 Mbps, we got a fast download speed of 89 Mbps while connected to Surfshark’s New York server. With such fast speeds, you can enjoy streaming in HD and 4K without any issues.
This pocket-friendly VPN also offers a wide range of features such as split tunneling, Multi-Hop, No Borders feature, and much more. There is an in-built ad-blocker as well called CleanWeb that protects you from malware, viruses, and harmful ads.
Just like ExpressVPN, Surfshark is also located in the British Virgin Islands which is a privacy-friendly jurisdiction and its privacy policy has been audited twice. So, when it comes to online security, and anonymity, you have nothing to worry about with Surfshark.
In terms of device compatibility, Surfshark is a solid choice for Kodi because it supports unlimited simultaneous connections. It means, one account can be used on as many devices as you want, making it quite budget-friendly.
Surfshark is perfect for Kodi, with apps for Android TV, and Firestick, and there is a Smart DNS feature that extends its support. It is available for $2.30/mo (Save 82% and get 2 extra months FREE with 24-month plan) with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free.
For more information, read our Surfshark review.
2. ExpressVPN – Fastest VPN for Kodi
ExpressVPN is the best and fastest VPN for Kodi. The provider is an all-rounder with the best streaming performance, speed, and price. All in all, we would definitely recommend using ExpressVPN with Kodi.
This premium VPN service offers the fastest speeds with servers across 160 locations which is great for unblocking geo-restricted add-ons.
ExpressVPN has over 3000 servers in 94 countries. During testing, ExpressVPN has proven that it is capable of unblocking a number of streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, Zee5, Voot, HBO Max, Amazon Prime, and more. It means that you will have no trouble accessing any Kodi add-0n.
ExpressVPN gives you the industry’s top speed thanks to its Lightway protocol, which is a modified version of WireGuard. While testing, we found ExpressVPN to be the fastest among its competitors as it gave a download speed of 91 Mbps on a base connection of 100 Mbps.
With ExpressVPN, you get fool-proof online security thanks to its kill switch, AES 256-bit encryption, and perfect forward secrecy that protects encrypted data from attacks by regularly changing keys.
ExpressVPN is based in the safe jurisdiction of the British Virgin Islands which is far from the influence of the 5 Eyes. Moreover, its logging policy has been independently audited by PwC.
With ExpressVPN you get 5 simultaneous connections, and there are apps for various devices such as Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, and others. There is an app for routers as well, along with a MediaStreamer Smart DNS feature.
You can get ExpressVPN for $6.67/mo and it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it yourself and cancel your account if you wish to get a refund.
To learn more about this provider, you can check out our ExpressVPN review.
3. NordVPN – Most Secure VPN for Kodi
NordVPN is one of the most secure, powerful, and well-known Kodi VPNs that is great when it comes to performance.
One of the most highlighted features of NordVPN is its massive global server network of 5200+ servers spread across 59 countries. It means NordVPN will provide you access to Kodi and other streaming services from anywhere.
It works with all popular streaming services like Netflix, Sonyliv, Hulu, HBO Max, DAZN, BBC iPlayer, Disney Plus, and others. In short, you will have access to these streaming platforms and more on Kodi.
NordVPNs’ speeds are very impressive especially if you connect to a nearby server. The VPN uses its own version of the Wireguard protocol called NordLynx which delivers faster speeds as compared to the OpenVPN protocol.
NordVPN’s privacy and security features are equally remarkable. It offers 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and IP/DNS leak protection. There are plenty of advanced features as well such as Double VPN, obfuscated servers, and an adblocker called CyberSec.
NordVPN is based in the safe jurisdiction of Panama – a country with no mandatory data retention laws. Moreover, it has an independently audited no-log policy.
NordVPN offers great apps for various devices such as Amazon Firestick, Android TV, and more. It supports 6 simultaneous connections along with a Smart DNS feature for devices that don’t support VPNs.
NordVPN is available for $5.29/mo and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can easily give it a try risk-free with Kodi.
For more information, you can read our NordVPN review.
4. IPVanish – Reliable VPN for Kodi
IPVanish is another great choice for streaming Kodi. It comes with a set of impressive features, good speed, and overall good performance.
You get to choose from 2000+ servers in 75+ locations. Therefore, when it comes to unblocking geo-restricted streaming platforms, you will have no trouble watching them on Kodi from anywhere. IPVanish works with Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, and much more.
IPVanish uses WireGuard protocol which allows for fast speed on its servers. Owing to its fast speed, IPVanish is a great VPN for streaming, gaming, and torrenting. Rest assured that you will not experience any buffering while streaming.
When you are connected to IPVanish’s servers, your data gets encrypted with 256-bit encryption. There is a kill switch feature as well along with DNS and IP leak protection.
The only negative here is that IPVanish is based in the US – one of the main members of the 5 Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance. However, it has its no-log policy audited by Leviathan.
IPVanish does offer unlimited simultaneous connections, so you can use it on as many devices as you want. It also offers easy-to-use apps for all major devices such as Android, iOS, Mac, Windows, and more.
You can get IPVanish for $3.99/mo along with a 30-day refund policy. You can also check out our IPVanish review for more details.
5. CyberGhost – Easy-to-use VPN for Kodi
CyberGhost is a good VPN for Kodi offering beginner-friendly apps covering all major streaming devices and platforms.
CyberGhost offers more than 7700 servers in 90+ countries. Meaning, that you can easily access your favorite content from anywhere, including geo-restricted add-ons and services.
What we liked about CyberGhost is that there are dedicated servers for streaming, torrenting, gaming, and NoSpy servers. To watch US Netflix, you can connect to a US Netflix server, and more. It works well with Hulu, HBO Max, and even DAZN.
CyberGhost offers excellent speeds on its WireGuard tunneling protocol, making it a great Kodi VPN. This way, you can enjoy streaming shows and movies in HD buffer-free.
CyberGhost employs military-grade AES 256 encryption, along with split tunneling, kill switch, and obfuscation. It is based in Romania, a country that is not part of the intelligence-sharing alliance block.
CyberGhost supports 7 simultaneous connections and offers apps for 15+ operating systems. This means you can install it on your desktop, smartphones, routers, Smart TVs, and others.
CyberGhost is available for $2.29/mo and there is a 45-day money-back guarantee in case you are not satisfied and wish to cancel your subscription. If you wish to learn more about this VPN, you can read our review of CyberGhost.
6. Private Internet Access – Largest Server Network VPN for Kodi
Private Internet Access is an excellent Kodi VPN with a lot of features that are not often found in run-of-the-mill providers.
One of the most striking features of PIA is its vast server network. While the provider is no longer disclosing the exact number of servers, it has certainly crossed the 35,000 mark. These servers are spread across 84 countries and in a variety of locations.
With so many servers, you will have no problem changing your IP address and unblocking restricted add-ons on Kodi from anywhere.
PIA offers fast speed on its WireGuard protocol, even on distant server locations, which is great for streaming in 4K.
When it comes to security, PIA offers a lot of customization. You can use AES 128-bit or 256-bit encryption, along with data authentication and handshakes, including RSA-2048 and RSA-4096. To prevent DNS leaks, PIA uses its own DNS servers for extra security.
Even though PIA is based in the US, the provider has undergone independent audits. Moreover, the provider has regularly received court orders requesting user information, but PIA has never handed over any information, which effectively proves its no logs policy.
With PIA, you can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously on a single plan, which is more than what most providers allow. Its mobile apps for iOS and Android are remarkably impressive.
PIA VPN is very affordable, with its best plan available for $2.03/mo along with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
For an in-depth look at this VPN, you can read our Private Internet Access review.
7. Hotspot Shield – A Speedy VPN for Kodi
Hotspot Shield is another great Kodi VPN that delivers impressive performance, and a great user experience. It offers 1800 global servers in 80 countries.
Hotspot Shield offers tons of virtual server locations. It even offers servers in India and other countries with strict censorship laws. The provider works with major premium services like DAZN, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and Netflix.
Hotspot Shield is impressively fast. No matter which server you choose, you will have no trouble streaming in HD without experiencing any buffering. The speeds are further enhanced by its own Catapult Hydra protocol.
The provider offers tons of security features like AES 256-bit encryption, kill switch, and IP/DNS leak protection. Even though there is no dedicated split tunneling feature, there is a domain bypass feature that allows you to route certain websites outside the tunnel.
That said, Hotspot Shield’s logging policy is questionable and it is based in the US. The provider even has a vague logging policy and is slightly misleading. It is owned by Aura, a US-based company with intrusive privacy laws.
With Hotspot Shield you get 5 simultaneous connections and it’s compatible with a wide range of platforms like Windows, iOS, Android, macOS, and more.
Hotspot Shield is available for $7.99/mo with a 45-day money-back guarantee. It also offers a free version which comes with a lot of limitations like a 500MB/day data limit, and speed limitations.
Our Selection Process for Choosing the Best VPN for Kodi
There are hundreds of VPNs in the market if not more, and all claim to be the best in terms of performance. However, that is not the case. Here are some of the main features to look for when you are choosing the best VPN for Kodi.
- Devices Compatibility
- Simultaneous Connections
- Unblocking Capabilities
- Speed
- Servers Location
- No-log Policy
- Security Features
- Price and Money-Back Guarantee
- Customer Support
1. Devices Compatibility
The first thing is to make sure that the VPN can be downloaded and installed on your device, and that it offers apps for all major devices. It should be compatible with iOS, Android, PC, Smart TVs, Amazon Firestick, macOS, and routers.
However, some devices might be unsupported, in that case, there should be a router app, or Smart DNS feature available.
2. Simultaneous Connections
It’s best to use a VPN that allows multiple connections at the same time. This way, you can use the VPN on Kodi, and other devices at the same time. A minimum of 5 simultaneous connections is desirable.
3. Unblocking Capabilities
The best VPN for streaming gives you access to your desired platform and add-ons on Kodi easily. A VPN should be powerful enough to bypass regional blocks on streaming services, without error messages.
It should also work with popular VoD streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and others.
4. Speed
To avoid buffering and lag while streaming in HD, the best Kodi VPN should offer fast-speed connections with unlimited bandwidth. As a rule of thumb, there shouldn’t be more than a 25-30% drop in speed.
5. Servers Locations
More servers mean more regional websites and platforms you can unblock. It is best to choose a VPN that offers thousands of servers in most locations across the world, so you can easily access regional add-ons without restriction.
6. No-log Policy
The VPN should have a strict no-log policy to make sure your information is not shared with any third party. Apart from privacy policy, the jurisdiction of the VPN also matters. It is best if the VPN is not headquartered in the 5, 9, and 14 Eyes Alliance Block.
7. Security Features
To avoid downloading harmful add-ons and files, be sure to get a VPN with solid security features. The best Kodi VPN should come with a functional kill switch, AES 256-bit encryption, and an ad-blocker is also a plus.
8. Price and Money-Back Guarantee
Make sure the VPN you have chosen for Kodi offers the best value for your money. A cheap price does not mean better service, so make sure you get a solid money-back guarantee so you can test the service yourself and get a refund if you are not satisfied.
9. Customer Support
Although VPNs are easy to use, you might encounter an issue while setting up the VPN or later on. Therefore, 24/7 customer support is of great help, especially if it’s available via live chat because that means you can get instant help whenever in need.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is it legal to use a VPN for Kodi?
- Can I use a free VPN with Kodi?
- How to use a VPN with Kodi?
- Does Kodi have a built-in VPN?
- Do I need a VPN for Kodi?
- What can you watch with Kodi add-ons?
Is it legal to use a VPN for Kodi?
Yes, it is legal to use a VPN for Kodi. Kodi is an open-source project, and anyone can create an add-on. However, most of them are not secure or legal, which is where a VPN comes in. A VPN keeps your information safe from prying eyes, stops malware, and gives you online security while you are streaming.
Can I use a free VPN with Kodi?
Yes, you can try using a free VPN with Kodi, but it is not recommended at all. Free VPNs cannot manage to unblock geo-blocked content such as Kodi add-ons, and they offer poor speed. What’s more, free VPNs sell user data, thus leading to privacy issues.
We recommend using a paid, premium VPN such as Surfshark that offers a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can try it risk-free.
How to use a VPN with Kodi?
Follow these steps to use a VPN with Kodi:
- Visit the Surfshark website and download its application.
- Once the installation is complete, open the app and enter your login details.
- Connect to a server location you want.
- Once the connection is established, you can use Kodi securely.
Does Kodi have a built-in VPN?
Kodi does not have a built-in VPN, but there are various VPN add-ons that you can get on Kodi. This way, your Kodi traffic will go through a VPN connection, offering online security.
Do I need a VPN for Kodi?
Since using a VPN for Kodi gives you access to geo-restricted content, we would say, you definitely need a Kodi VPN. Moreover, VPNs encrypt your connection, so it protects you from hackers, snoopers, and any third-party surveillance.
What can you watch with Kodi add-ons?
There are plenty of things you can watch with Kodi add-ons like streaming live TV, movies, sports, and on-demand content. Kodi allows you to stream media from a wide range of sources.
Final Words
There are several reasons why maximum users opt for a Kodi VPN these days. A VPN is the best way to protect yourself from malware, and malicious add-ons, and get access to geo-restricted content from anywhere in the world. In either case, the quality of the VPN matters the most.
In this guide, we have shared with you the 7 best VPNs for Kodi for streaming. These providers offer high connection speeds, the latest encryption ciphers, and multiple simultaneous connections.
Our favorite choice is Surfshark . It not only offers all the premium features with the fastest connection speeds along with a 30-day money-back guarantee.