Have you ever been stuck trying to stream your favorite show on Plex, only to find it’s blocked in your area? This happens more often than you’d think. NordVPN is often considered the best VPN for Plex due to its ability to unblock content at fast speeds. It ensures a seamless streaming experience without interruptions.
Let’s explore the top VPN options, breaking down what makes each one ideal for accessing Plex. Whether it’s unblocking foreign libraries or securing your data while streaming, we’ve got you covered.
Grab a comfy seat—uninterrupted Plex streaming is just a few clicks away!
12 Best VPNs for Plex in 2025
Here’s our list of the top VPNs for Plex in 2024:
- ExpressVPN: Best for Fast Streaming
- NordVPN: Best for Security Features
- Surfshark: Best for Unlimited Devices
- CyberGhost: Best for User-Friendly Interface
- PrivateVPN: Best for High Privacy
- IPVanish: Best for Advanced Users
- Private Internet Access (PIA): Best for Large Server Network
- VyprVPN: Best for Privacy Protection
- ProtonVPN: Best for Free Tier Options
- Hotspot Shield: Best for Speed Boosts
- TunnelBear: Best for Simplicity
- Windscribe: Best for Free Data Allowance
Each of these VPNs offers unique features that make them suitable for enhancing your Plex experience. They ensure you get secure, accelerated, and customizable streaming.
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is renowned for its reliable performance, extensive server network, and strong focus on privacy. It’s well-suited for streaming and secure browsing, although it comes at a higher price compared to some competitors.
Pros & Cons
- High speeds with Lightway protocol
- Extensive server network in over 100 countries
- Strong privacy and security measures
- Free password management tool included
- More expensive than many other VPNs
- Lacks some advanced security tools
- No port forwarding feature
Our Experience
We’ve found ExpressVPN to be exceptionally fast and reliable, making it perfect for streaming on platforms like Plex.
The setup is straightforward, with user-friendly apps that work across various devices. We appreciated the intuitive interface and seamless connection process that doesn’t require much technical knowledge.
ExpressVPN’s ability to bypass geo-restrictions was impressive, allowing us to access a wide range of content effortlessly. Privacy features are reliable, backed by a no-logs policy and consistent security audits.
However, the higher cost might be a barrier for some users. Despite the price, the quality of service, speed, and privacy features make it a compelling choice for those who prioritize these aspects over cost.
Pricing Plan
ExpressVPN offers a few subscription options. A single month costs $12.95, which can be pricey for some. A six-month plan is available at $9.99 per month, billed at $59.95 every six months.
For the best value, the annual plan costs $6.67 per month, amounting to $99.95 charged annually, which includes three extra months for free.
Despite being higher priced than many other VPNs, the comprehensive server network and efficient features could justify the investment for users seeking premium service.
NordVPN
NordVPN is a strong choice for Plex users due to its secure encryption, reliable streaming capabilities, and ease of setup. It is widely regarded for its excellent security features and the ability to bypass geo-restrictions effectively, enhancing the Plex experience. Here are some specifics about what it offers:
Pros & Cons
- High security with AES-256 encryption
- Strong streaming capabilities
- Meshnet feature for secure local networking
- Reliable unblocking of geo-restricted content
- No native port forwarding for remote access
- May experience occasional speed drops
Our Experience
We found NordVPN to be efficient for streaming content on Plex. Setting it up was straightforward, and the platform handled high-quality video streams smoothly.
The Meshnet feature allowed us to connect devices securely on a local network, which was a handy workaround since direct port forwarding is not available.
Security is a standout feature, as NordVPN employs advanced encryption, providing protection for privacy-conscious users. While we occasionally noticed some speed fluctuations, overall, the service maintained a stable connection.
Compared to other VPNs, it excelled in bypassing geo-restrictions, allowing us to access content from different regions reliably.
Pricing Plan
NordVPN provides several pricing options to meet different needs. Currently, the standard plan is available at a discounted rate of $3.19 per month for a two-year commitment, with a 30-day money-back guarantee—ideal for those truly seeking long-term VPN solutions.
They also offer a monthly plan at $12.99 and a one-year plan costing $4.99 per month. These plans come with consistent service quality, making NordVPN a competitive option in the market.
Surfshark
Surfshark is a reliable and budget-friendly VPN option for Plex users. It provides strong security features and a vast network of servers to ensure uninterrupted streaming. With its user-friendly interface, Surfshark makes it easy even for beginners to set up and use. Let’s examine Surfshark in more detail.
Pros & Cons
- Affordable pricing
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Strong security features, including AES-256 encryption
- Wide range of servers
- Occasional connection drops
- Limited server speed during peak times
Our Experience
When we used Surfshark with Plex, the setup was straightforward. The app interface is clean and intuitive, perfect for users at any level.
We appreciated its ability to unblock multiple streaming sites, which makes Surfshark ideal for accessing content without restrictions. The connection was generally reliable, though we noticed some speed fluctuations during peak hours.
A standout feature is the ability to connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously. This is perfect for families or those who use multiple gadgets.
The security measures, like AES-256 encryption, gave us ease while streaming, knowing that our data remained protected. Despite a few connection hiccups, our overall experience was positive, making it a solid choice for streaming Plex securely.
Pricing Plan
Surfshark offers competitive pricing, making it accessible to a wide audience. As of now, the monthly plan costs around $12.95. Opting for the annual plan brings it down to $3.99 per month, while the two-year plan reduces the monthly cost to just $2.49.
These plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing users to try the service risk-free.
This pricing structure offers great value, especially with the ability to connect unlimited devices, making it an attractive choice for those on a budget but not willing to compromise on service quality.
CyberGhost
CyberGhost is a popular VPN choice for streaming Plex content due to its user-friendly design and extensive server network. It offers strong security features and high speeds for a seamless streaming experience.
Pros & Cons
- Easy-to-use interface
- Large network of servers
- High-speed connections
- 45-day money-back guarantee
- Optimized servers for streaming
- Inconsistent speeds in some regions
- Limited advanced features
Our Experience
While using CyberGhost, we found that its interface was very intuitive, making it ideal for beginners. The VPN offers specialized streaming servers, which makes accessing Plex from various locations straightforward and fast.
We experienced fluid HD streaming with minimal buffering, which is crucial for Plex users.
Our one concern was occasional speed fluctuations on some servers. Although most connections were fast, a few locations did not maintain the expected speed.
Despite this, CyberGhost’s extensive network provided plenty of alternatives, ensuring we could always find a reliable connection.
Security features like 256-bit encryption and a strict no-logs policy gave us ease while streaming.
Pricing Plan
CyberGhost provides several pricing options to suit different needs:
- 1-month plan: $12.99 per month
- 6-month plan: $6.99 per month
- 2-year plan: $2.19 per month (billed $56.94 every two years)
These plans are often accompanied by promotions or discounts, making CyberGhost a cost-effective solution for long-term use. Additionally, with their generous 45-day money-back guarantee, users have ample time to test the service.
PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN provides strong security features and is budget-friendly. It’s known for unblocking content and supporting multiple simultaneous connections, making it a suitable choice for Plex users.
Pros & Cons
- Strong encryption and privacy features
- Allows up to 10 simultaneous connections
- Affordable pricing plans
- Reliable speed and performance
- Smaller server network compared to competitors
- The user interface could be more intuitive
Our Experience
When we used PrivateVPN, we found its performance to be dependable, especially for streaming on Plex.
The speed was adequate for high-quality videos without buffering issues. We appreciated the emphasis on privacy, with advanced encryption that kept our data secure.
Setting up PrivateVPN was straightforward, although the interface seemed slightly outdated. However, the connection stability was impressive.
Despite a smaller server pool, PrivateVPN efficiently bypassed geo-restrictions on several platforms. This capability enhanced our streaming experience, allowing access to a variety of content libraries.
On the downside, while its server selection is functional, it’s not as extensive as larger VPN providers. Despite this limitation, PrivateVPN’s strengths in security and performance make it a reliable choice, especially considering the value of the price.
Pricing Plan
PrivateVPN offers flexible pricing structures to fit different needs. The monthly subscription costs approximately $9.90, providing all features without limitations. For those seeking savings, a three-month plan is available at around $6.00 per month.
Most notably, a longer-term option reduces costs significantly, with a 36-month plan priced at roughly $2.00 per month.
Each plan includes a 30-day money-back guarantee, providing ease for new users. The pricing structure is competitive, appealing particularly to those needing multiple device connections without breaking the bank.
IPVanish
IPVanish offers a mix of speed, security, and diversity for streaming services like Plex. We explore its features, our personal experience with it, and the various pricing plans available.
Pros & Cons
- Strong multiplatform support
- 256-bit encryption for better security
- Fast connection speeds
- Lacks free version
- Fewer server locations compared to some competitors
Our Experience
Using IPVanish was straightforward and effective for streaming Plex content. We appreciated the multiplatform support, which let us easily set up devices running Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.
The connection speed was impressive, allowing us to stream HD content without interruptions.
Security is a top priority for us, and IPVanish did not disappoint. With 256-bit encryption, our data felt secure during use. However, we noticed that the server choice isn’t as wide as some other VPNs, which could limit options for users needing specific regional servers.
Pricing Plan
IPVanish offers several pricing plans to fit different needs. The monthly plan starts at $11.99, which can be a bit steep for some. Opting for their annual plan cuts the cost significantly to $47.89 per year, averaging about $3.99 per month.
There’s also a quarterly plan priced at $29.99. While pricier than some competitors, the value comes from efficient features and strong security measures included in each plan.
PIA (Private Internet Access)
PIA is known for its strong privacy features and affordability, making it a popular option for VPN users. It provides a range of features like port forwarding and advanced automation.
Pros & Cons
- Confirmed no-logging policy
- Offers port forwarding
- Affordable long-term plans
- Apps for all major platforms
- Sometimes, slow customer support
- Limited phishing protection
- Lags in innovation compared to competitors
Our Experience
Using PIA, we found it reliable for streaming and online privacy needs. The app setup was straightforward, and we appreciated the intuitive design on both desktop and mobile.
The automation features, like activating the VPN on certain networks, made our daily routine seamless.
We did notice that their support can be slow, which was a bit frustrating. There’s room for improvement in phishing protection, too.
Overall, PIA performed well in streaming scenarios and offered good security features, but it felt less innovative than some other VPNs we’ve tried.
Pricing Plan
PIA offers competitive pricing, making it a budget-friendly option. Monthly subscriptions are priced at $11.95. For long-term savings, the three-year plan significantly reduces costs to about $2.03 per month, which is a strong deal compared to many other providers.
These affordable rates, combined with its features, make PIA a worthwhile consideration for cost-conscious users.
VyprVPN
VyprVPN is known for its focus on privacy and speed, making it a popular choice for streaming services like Plex. It offers advanced security features and a large network of global servers.
Pros & Cons
- Strong encryption and privacy features
- Fast connection speeds
- No third-party involvement in data handling
- Wide range of server locations
- Slightly higher pricing than some competitors
- Limited simultaneous connections
Our Experience
Using VyprVPN with Plex has been generally positive. We found the connection speeds to be impressive, which is crucial for streaming high-quality video without buffering.
The platform’s security features, like strong encryption protocols, gave us confidence in our online privacy.
The user interface is straightforward, making it easy to connect to servers worldwide. However, VyprVPN allows fewer simultaneous connections, which might be a downside for larger households.
Despite this, the absence of third-party data handling adds a layer of trust that is uncommon in other services. We appreciated VyprVPN’s commitment to a no-log policy that ensures our streaming activities remain private.
Pricing Plan
VyprVPN offers a few pricing options to suit different needs. As of the latest available data, the monthly plan is approximately $12.95. For those seeking a more economical choice, the 12-month plan is priced at about $3.75 per month, billed annually.
This plan provides the best value for money. VyprVPN doesn’t currently offer a free trial, but they do have a 30-day money-back guarantee, giving users a chance to try the service risk-free.
This helps in deciding whether the investment provides the expected quality and features for enhancing the Plex streaming experience.
ProtonVPN
ProtonVPN is a strong choice for users looking for privacy and security. It offers multiple pricing plans and features, making it adaptable to different needs. Our experience with the service showcases both its strengths and areas where it could improve.
Pros & Cons
- Excellent security features
- No-logs policy
- Free version available
- Strong encryption
- Good performance with reliable connection speeds
- Fewer server locations compared to competitors
- The free version has limited speed and server selection
- Higher cost for full access
Our Experience
ProtonVPN impressed us with its advanced security measures. The no-logs policy, combined with advanced encryption, ensures user privacy. It’s especially useful for those prioritizing data protection while streaming on platforms like Plex.
Connection speeds were stable, though not the fastest we’ve tried. Setting up a connection was straightforward, and the user interface was clear.
The free version is decent for basic use, but limited speed and server choices mean upgrading is often necessary for more demanding tasks.
A downside we noticed was the limited number of server locations compared to some rivals. This can restrict access options for specific regions. Overall, for users focused on security, ProtonVPN remains a solid choice.
Pricing Plan
ProtonVPN offers several pricing tiers. The free version provides limited speed and server selection, which is suitable for light use. The Basic plan starts at around $5 per month, offering faster speeds and more accessible servers.
For those needing full access, the Plus plan costs about $10 per month. It includes the highest speed allowances, better servers, and extra features like Secure Core.
The Visionary plan, roughly $30 per month, combines all Plus features with email service access, ideal for power users seeking additional security tools.
Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield is known for its fast connection speeds and strong security measures, making it a popular choice for streaming and general browsing.
Pros & Cons
- Fast connection speeds
- Strong encryption
- Easy-to-use interface
- This may cause access issues with Plex
- Somewhat limited server locations
- Higher cost compared to other options
Our Experience
Using Hotspot Shield with Plex presents both opportunities and challenges. The VPN’s speed and security features worked well during testing. Streaming was smooth without buffering once connected to a server.
However, enabling Hotspot Shield sometimes made remote access to Plex difficult. We found that forwarding Plex’s default port 32400 increased compatibility but did not fully resolve all issues.
The interface is straightforward, which makes setup simple. While the VPN’s fast speeds were beneficial for streaming, its compatibility with Plex felt inconsistent.
Testing in different environments demonstrated that network settings can greatly impact the overall user experience.
Pricing Plan
Hotspot Shield offers multiple pricing options designed for a variety of needs. As of now, they provide a monthly plan at $12.99 per month, with discounts for longer commitments. The annual plan costs $7.99 per month, billed at $95.88 annually.
Additionally, a 3-year plan is available at $2.99 per month, billed $107.64 every three years, acting as a cost-effective option for long-term users. Each plan comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee, allowing users to test the service risk-free.
TunnelBear
TunnelBear is a VPN option known for its friendly design and ease of use. It offers strong security features and has a free version with limited data for users to try out.
Pros & Cons
- User-friendly interface
- Strong security and encryption
- Free version available with 500MB of data per month
- Fun, bear-themed branding
- Limited server locations compared to competitors
- Data cap on the free version
- Slower speeds on some servers
Our Experience
When using TunnelBear, we found the interface to be intuitive and welcoming, making it a great choice for beginners. The straightforward setup allowed us to connect quickly and navigate its features with ease.
The bear-themed design is engaging and adds a touch of fun, which sets it apart from the usual tech-centric look of other VPNs.
In terms of performance, TunnelBear provides reliable security with strong encryption protocols. However, we noticed that the server locations were fewer than what some other VPN services offer, which can limit accessibility.
While speeds were generally good, we experienced occasional slowdowns, especially on distant servers. This might not suit users looking for super-fast streaming.
Overall, TunnelBear works well for everyday browsing and basic protection but might not meet the needs of power users looking for extensive server options and high-speed performance.
Pricing Plan
TunnelBear offers several pricing plans to fit different needs. The free version provides 500MB of data each month, which can be handy for those who want to test the service before committing.
For paid plans, the Unlimited plan costs $3.33 per month when billed annually, offering unlimited data and access to all servers.
Additionally, TunnelBear provides a Teams plan for businesses, designed with collaboration in mind, although pricing for this depends on the number of users and specific business needs.
This range of options allows users to choose a plan that best suits their usage and budget.
Windscribe
Windscribe provides a secure VPN solution that offers features such as split tunneling and port forwarding, making it a suitable choice for accessing Plex servers. It allows for flexibility and privacy, ensuring uninterrupted connection while streaming.
Pros & Cons
- Supports split tunneling, allowing Plex to bypass the VPN.
- It offers port forwarding, which is crucial for remote access to Plex.
- Strong encryption and privacy features.
- Some issues with remote connections despite split tunneling.
- The free version has data limits.
Our Experience
We’ve found Windscribe to be a reliable VPN for those wanting to use Plex both locally and remotely. The option to use split tunneling is valuable, as it lets Plex traffic go outside the VPN while the rest stays protected.
This means we can still enjoy private internet browsing without compromising on our streaming experience.
The port forwarding feature is a major plus, enabling us to access our Plex server from anywhere. However, we did encounter occasional issues with remote connections, even when split tunneling was correctly set up.
These problems were not frequent enough to be dealbreakers, but they were something we noted.
Pricing Plan
Windscribe has flexible pricing, with both free and paid options. The free version includes 10 GB of monthly data, which is suitable for lighter use.
For more extensive needs, the “Pro” version offers unlimited data and the ability to connect unlimited devices for $9 monthly or $69 yearly. The plans offer substantial value, especially for those frequently using streaming services like Plex.
Final Evaluation
After careful analysis, we believe NordVPN is the top choice for using Plex.
Key Features:
- Security: NordVPN offers strong security features, including obfuscation and a kill switch, ensuring your streaming is safe.
- Servers: With over 6,000 servers in 61 countries, it provides vast options for bypassing geo-restrictions.
- Streaming Speed: Users report excellent speed, which is crucial for enjoying Plex without interruptions.
User Feedback: NordVPN is praised for its consistent performance and user-friendly interface. The 30-day money-back guarantee also gives users confidence to try it out.
You can find out more about NordVPN, which is the best VPN for Plex on VPNRanks.
Our Selection Criteria
When choosing the best VPNs for Plex, we began by scanning the market for popular options. We looked at factors like user reviews and expert recommendations to compile a list of potential VPNs.
Testing Methodology
Once we had a list, we narrowed it down by examining specific criteria:
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Streaming Capability: We tested each VPN’s ability to access geo-restricted content on Plex. Consistent access was a must.
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Speed: Speed tests were crucial. We measured both upload and download speeds to ensure no buffering during streaming.
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Security Features: Strong encryption, no-log policies, and protection against DNS leaks were essential.
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Ease of Use: We evaluated the user interface and installation process to find VPNs that are user-friendly.
Head-to-Head Comparison
After shortlisting the VPNs, we put them side by side and tested them in real scenarios. This helped us determine their reliability under different conditions.
Products Tested
From our market research and testing, we selected the following VPN options:
- ExpressVPN
- NordVPN
- Surfshark
- CyberGhost
- PrivateVPN
- IPVanish
- PIA (Private Internet Access)
- VyprVPN
- ProtonVPN
- Hotspot Shield
- TunnelBear
- Windscribe
These VPNs stood out in our tests for various reasons, including speed and security features.
Our final selection aims to give you the best choices for streaming on Plex, balancing performance and ease of use.
What is a VPN for Plex?
A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is a tool we use to enhance privacy and security while using the internet. When it comes to Plex, a VPN helps us protect our streaming activities from prying eyes. It also allows us to access geo-restricted content that might not be available in our region.
By encrypting our data, a VPN ensures that our Plex usage remains private. This can be especially important if we’re using public Wi-Fi, where data is often more vulnerable to interception. For Plex users who value privacy, a VPN is a worthwhile consideration.
In addition to privacy, a VPN for Plex can improve our streaming experience by bypassing regional restrictions. If certain content is not available in our country, a VPN can help us appear to be in a different location, granting access to a wider range of media.
When choosing a VPN for Plex, we should look for services that offer reliable speeds and good security features. Some VPNs are even optimized to work seamlessly with streaming services like Plex. It’s important to find a VPN provider that supports the protocols and speeds that suit our streaming needs.
Benefits of using a VPN for Plex?
Using a VPN for Plex can give us more control over our streaming experience. One of the main benefits is the ability to bypass geo-restrictions.
Some shows and movies on Plex might be unavailable in certain countries. By connecting to a VPN server in a different location, we can access content that would otherwise be blocked.
Another advantage is increased privacy and security. When we stream on Plex, our internet data is vulnerable to snooping and potential cyber threats. A VPN encrypts our connection, making it much harder for anyone to intercept our data. This means we can enjoy watching without worrying about privacy risks.
VPNs can also help with overcoming ISP throttling. Internet Service Providers sometimes slow down streaming speeds during peak hours. By using a VPN, our ISP cannot see our streaming activity, reducing the chances of throttling and allowing us to enjoy a smoother streaming experience.
Remote access is another useful feature. If we have a Plex server at home, we might want to access it while traveling. A VPN with remote access capabilities lets us connect to our home network securely and continue using our Plex server from anywhere.
Lastly, certain VPNs support port forwarding, which can enhance our Plex connections. This feature allows us to manage network traffic more efficiently, improving streaming quality and reducing buffering. Using a VPN can provide a better and safer experience when enjoying content on Plex.
How To Choose the Best VPN Software for Plex
When selecting a VPN for Plex, it’s important to focus on a few key features. Speed is crucial because we want to stream videos without buffering. Fast VPNs keep the quality high, especially for HD or 4K content.
Security is another important factor. Look for VPNs that offer strong encryption, like AES-256. This keeps our data private and safe from prying eyes. We should also check for a no-logs policy, ensuring our activity isn’t recorded.
Having a wide range of server locations is beneficial, too. This allows us to access Plex content from different regions. If there’s a particular country’s content we’re interested in, make sure the VPN has servers there.
For ease of use, the VPN should be compatible with all our devices. Ideally, it should support streaming on smart TVs, mobile, and desktops. This flexibility ensures we can watch our favorite shows anywhere.
Customer support availability can be a lifesaver. Sometimes, we might face connectivity issues or need setup help. A VPN with 24/7 support is useful in these scenarios.
Finally, consider any subscription benefits. A VPN offering a money-back guarantee or discount can be appealing. For instance, NordVPN offers a 73% discount, as Cloudwards noted. These perks can make your decision easier.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best VPN for Plex streaming?
From our research, NordVPN often comes out on top for Plex streaming. It offers strong security and fast speeds, which are essential for a seamless experience.
Can I use a VPN with Plex to access content from other regions?
Yes, a VPN allows us to access content from different regions by masking our IP address. This way, we can unlock geo-restricted shows and movies from around the world.
Does using a VPN with Plex affect streaming quality?
Using a VPN may slightly affect streaming quality due to encryption and server distance. However, top VPNs like NordVPN are designed to maintain high speeds so that any impact is minimal.
Can a VPN unblock Plex live TV channels?
A VPN can help us unblock live TV channels that are restricted in certain regions. This works by routing our connection through servers in countries where the content is available.
How can I use a VPN with Plex to protect my privacy?
By encrypting our data, a VPN protects our privacy when using Plex. It prevents others from seeing our online activity, ensuring a secure streaming experience without exposing personal information.
What VPNs support port forwarding for Plex media server access?
Port forwarding is crucial for accessing a Plex media server remotely. VPNs like Norton VPN may support port forwarding, allowing us to use Plex outside of our local network while maintaining a stable connection.