Best VPN for FireStick (2023) - Buffering Free Private Streaming (2024)

This post covers the best VPNs for FireStick, the features that set them apart from other VPN services, and how to install them on FireStick. These VPNs are compatible with all Amazon Fire TV devices, including FireStick Lite, FireStick 3rd Gen, FireStick 4K Max, FireStick 4K, Fire TV Cube, New FireStick 4K, New FireStick 4K Max, and Fire OS TV.

The Amazon Fire Stick is a cost-effective way to transform your regular TV into a smart one. This Android-based device is a perfect option to watch Movies, TV shows, live TV, and just about everything you could stream over the internet. You can also jailbreak the FireStick to access unlimited content from third-party apps.

Streaming content on your FireStick is not different from browsing the internet on your mobile device or computer. Your data is exposed, and various players can monitor your browsing activity. These players include your Internet Service Provider(ISP), hackers, and the Government.

For secure and safe browsing, using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) on your FireStick is essential. The VPN shields your internet activity with an unbreakable encryption protocol to keep your data confidential and secure. In addition, the VPN helps you bypass geo-blocking to access exclusive content on streaming sites.

You are doing the right thing if you want to install a VPN on your FireStick for safe and secure streaming. But how do you choose the best from the hundreds of options available?

Below is our selection of the five best VPNs for FireStick based on the best features and capabilities.

In a rush?🏃 ExpressVPN is our number-one-rated VPN. Click HERE to start your 30-day risk-free trial with ExpressVPN. They offer a 100% money-back guarantee if you’re not satisfied.

Why You Need a VPN for FireStick and How It Helps

Below are reasons why you need a VPN for your FireStick or Fire TV:

Escape Online Surveillance

When browsing without a VPN, your ISP, hackers, corporations, and local authorities can monitor everything you do on the internet.

A VPN encrypts your data and creates a secure server for it to pass through to confuse any onlookers.

Avoid ISP Throttling

Your ISP can slow down your internet by manipulating the bandwidth when they sense certain traffic from your devices.

Say, they notice lots of high-resolution streaming on your FireStick. They can intentionally slow down your internet speed, causing buffering and lagging. This is known as throttling.

A VPN hides your internet activity from your ISP, exempting you from being a throttling target.

Bypass Geo-Restrictions

Netflix and other streaming platforms limit access to some of their content within specific regions.

You cannot watch the geo-restricted content if your IP address is not from those regions.

With a VPN, you can connect to a server in a geo-restricted area, unblocking any content you want to watch.

What To Look For in the Best FireStick VPN?

Choosing the best VPN for FireStick is daunting, with several services in the market promising the best offers. So what factors should you look for when choosing a VPN for FireStick?

Connections and Speed

When picking a VPN for FireStick, choose one with stable servers and reliable connections. Additionally, go for a VPN with decent speeds.

VPNs are known to slow down your internet speeds significantly, but the extent varies from one service to another. For this reason, I chose a VPN with fast speeds to avoid buffering during streaming.

I have found that ExpressVPN offers the fastest speeds.

Number of Servers and Locations

The best VPN for FireStick should have thousands of servers spread across several locations.

Choosing a VPN that provides a server for the areas you are most interested in is crucial.

If you use FireStick to stream content from various geographical locations, you should choose a VPN with stable servers in these areas.

Device Compatibility

The Amazon FireStick has become a beloved streaming device, and VPN providers have developed stand-alone apps for it.

When shopping for a VPN, pick one that provides a dedicated app for FireStick.

Geo-Unblocking Capacity

One of the most popular uses of VPN on FireStick is to unblock geo-restricted content such as movies, TV shows, and sports.

Not all VPN services can unblock content on apps like Netflix, Disney Plus, Showtime, and BBC iPlayer.

For this reason, choose a VPN that can bypass these restrictions.

Features

Are you getting started with VPN use? You must acquaint yourself with the security and privacy features necessary for a good VPN.

These include encryption technology, VPN protocols, kill switches, a no-logs policy, and DNS leak protection.

Choose a VPN that explicitly reveals having these features in place.

Reviews

Lastly, word of mouth from other users is crucial in helping you make a purchase decision.

Check out what other users make of the service and expert reviews on critical features like speed, reliability of connections, app compatibility, customer support, and the overall experience.

Best VPN for FireStick 2024

After thorough testing and comparison, we’ve rounded up five of the best VPNs for FireStick. Read on to discover what works best for you:

1. ExpressVPN – Our Pick for the Best FireStick VPN

High-speed connectivity and ironclad security protocols make ExpressVPN an unmistakable choice as the best VPN for FireStick.

We conducted numerous tests over several server locations, and ExpressVPN emerged as the fastest VPN. It is a perfect companion for those who want to stream safely and privately.

ExpressVPN has nearly 2000 servers and 160 locations in 105 countries. This gives you plenty of connection options and lets you bypass geo-restrictions to unblock content from several regions.

The VPN service uses AES-256 bit, a military-grade encryption technology that safeguards your streaming activities from anyone who could be snooping. In addition, the VPN’s Network Protection feature instantly blocks the internet connection when you get disconnected from the VPN server. This kill-switch feature prevents data or IP address leakage.

Another feature that makes ExpressVPN an excellent choice for FireStick is its zero-log policy. This policy protects your data safety and anonymity.

Some apps, especially Amazon-affiliated ones, don’t work well when connected to a VPN. For this reason, you need a VPN that offers split tunneling to exclude such apps from your VPN connection. ExpressVPN’s split tunneling feature makes it a perfect option for your Fire TV device.

Lastly, the lightweight nature of the ExpressVPN app for Amazon Fire TV Stick makes it a great addition to your best FireStick apps. It only takes up a little space in your device, has a decluttered user interface, and is easy to use.

How to Install ExpressVPN on FireStick

ExpressVPN has an official app that you can find in the Amazon App Store. Follow the steps below to install the app on your Fire TV Stick:

1. Click HERE to subscribe to ExpressVPN and enjoy a 49% discount on the annual plan (with a no-questions-asked, 30-day, money-back guarantee)

2. Click the magnifying glass icon.

3. Click Search.

4.Type ExpressVPN on the search bar and select ExpressVPN on the suggested results.

5. Click the ExpressVPN app tile under the Apps & Channels section.

6. Click Get or Download to install the ExpressVPN app.

7. Click Open once the download process is complete.

8. Click Sign in.

9. Enter your email and password, then select Sign in.

10. Click OK.

11. Click OK again to confirm the Connection request.

12. Click the power button to connect to the VPN.

13. To connect to a specific server, select the three dots beside the connected location.

14. Choose your preferred location from the Recommended or All Locations.

2. IPVanish

The second VPN service on our list is IPVanish. Based in the United States, this VPN offers world-class data protection, security, and safe streaming to give you a wholesome experience with your FireStick. It has a global reach, with about 2200 fast servers in over 75 locations worldwide.

When it comes to internet speeds, you can expect excellent download and upload speeds, low latency, and quick ping times. The VPN guarantees little to no throttling, ensuring minimal or no buffering, even for HD and 4K content. If you are looking for the best VPN for your FireStick 4K, FireStick 4K Max, or Fire TV Cube, you may want to consider IPVanish. You can download the IPVanish App from the Amazon Store.

Like its ExpressVPN counterpart, IPVanish uses military-grade AES-256-bit encryption technology. With this world-class encryption, you can expect the highest data security and protection level.

IPVanish offers three VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard. WireGuard is the latest advancement in VPN connectivity that guarantees faster speeds and safer connections. The multiple VPN protocols add to the VPN’s data security and safety capabilities.

Other excellent features of IPVanish include a kill switch, split tunneling, unlimited simultaneous connections, and a zero-log policy.

How To Install IPVanish on FireStick

Follow the below steps to install IPVanish on your Fire TV Stick or Fire TV:

1. To subscribe to IPVanish, click HERE.

2. Click Find on your FireStick home screen.

3. Click Search.

4. Type IPVanish on the search bar, then select IPVanish on the suggested results.

5. Choose the IPVanish app tile under Apps & Channels.

6. Click Get or Download. Wait a few seconds for the app to install.

7. Click Open to launch the app once the installation is complete.

8. Enter your login details and select Log In.

9. Click OK to confirm the Connection request.

10. Select CONNECT to connect to the IPVanish-provided fastest server.

11. To connect to a specific location, select the location icon at the bottom left corner.

12. Select a country or city to connect to a server.

3. Private Internet Access (PIA)

Private Internet Access is another US-based VPN service that works perfectly on Fire TV devices. With over 29,000 lightning-fast servers spread across 84 countries, PIA presents one of the fastest, most secure, and most reliable VPNs for your streaming needs.

It has a lightweight app and is officially available on the Amazon App Store. With PIA, you can bypass geo-restrictions placed by most streaming apps, including Netflix, HBO, Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer. At the same time, you are guaranteed safety and anonymity when streaming or downloading content from torrenting sites.

PIA has all the essential features that make a VPN suitable for FireStick, including a kill switch and split tunneling. It also has an ad blocker allowing you to stream your favorite content without interruptions.

In addition to these excellent features, the PIA VPN app is 100% open-source, guaranteeing zero information logging. This is a relief since the app’s headquarters are right under the prying eyes of the Fourteen Eyes Alliance.

Lastly, PIA guarantees fast, secure connections and world-class data security, courtesy of WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols.

How To Install Private Internet Access on FireStick or Fire TV

Below is the step-by-step process to install Private Internet Access on FireStick:

1. Click HERE to purchase a Private Internet Access subscription.

2. On your FireStick home screen, click the magnifying glass/Find icon.

3. Click Search.

4. Using your Fire TV remote, type Private Internet Access on the search bar, then select Private Internet Access from the suggested results.

5. Choose the tile named VPN by Private Internet Access under Apps & Channels.

6. Select Get or Download to install the app on your FireStick.

7. Select Open to launch the app once the download is complete.

8. On the Private Internet Access VPN home page, press LOGIN.

9. Type your username and password in the respective fields, then click LOGIN.

10. Press OK to give Private Internet Access VPN access to your VPN configurations.

11. Click OK to confirm the Connection request.

12. Click on the power button to connect to the Automatic server.

13. To connect to a specific location, click the search icon to find one.

4. CyberGhost

CyberGhost is hands down one of the best VPNs for anonymous and secure streaming. It’s compatible with various devices, including Fire TV, FireStick, Android, iOS, Windows, Linux, and macOS.

This super VPN offers 9788 servers and 117 locations in 91 countries. With this global reach, you can stream unlimited content from various parts of the world on your FireStick.

CyberGhost lets you stream privately, protecting you from the unwelcome eyes of your ISP, local government, or cyber criminals. It also lets you bypass ISP throttling because the VPN’s top-notch AES-256-bit encryption technology entirely masks your internet activity. With throttling avoided, you can enjoy buffer-free and high-quality streaming on your FireStick.

Several features make CyberGhost a top-tier VPN for your FireStick device. First, you can choose from multiple VPN protocols, including the latest WireGuard protocol, IKEv2, OpenVPN, and L2TP/IPSec. The other crucial feature is a kill switch, which prevents data leakage in case your VPN connection drops.

Lastly, CyberGhost has a strict no-log policy. It’s based in Romania, a country that isn’t governed by the intrusive law of the Fourteen Eyes Alliance. This policy guarantees that the company won’t log your internet activity, which ensures you remain anonymous.

How To Install CyberGhost on FireStick

CyberGhost has an official app specially made for the Amazon Fire TV Stick. Follow the guide below to install the VPN app on your Fire TV device:

1. Buy a CyberGhost subscription HERE.

2. Click Find on your Fire TV device home screen.

3. Select Search.

4. Type CyberGhost on the search bar, then select CyberGhost Vpn on the suggested results.

5. Select the CyberGhost app tile in the Apps & Channels section.

6. Click Get or Download to install the app on your device.

7. Once the download is finished, click Open.

8. Click Agree & Continue.

9. Select Open regular login.

10. Enter your Email and Password, then click Login.

11. Click OK to give CyberGhost access to your device settings.

12. Click OK to confirm the Connection request.

13. Click the power button to connect to the CyberGhost-provided best location.

You’ll see your IP Location, download and upload speeds, VPN protocol in use, and connection duration once you’re connected.

5. Surfshark

Surfshark is another reliable VPN service for your FireStick. Surfshark has all the features that make an excellent VPN for FireStick. Firstly, it has an incredible server reach, with over 3200 servers in 100 countries. Moreover, its CleanWeb feature helps you optimize your FireStick streaming experience by blocking ads, malware, trackers, and data phishing attempts.

The private DNS on each server and no-leak protection provides next-level security for your streaming and browsing activities and personal data. To add to your anonymity and privacy, Surfshark offers a Camouflage Mode that confuses even your ISP. Your ISP can’t tell whether you’re using a VPN or not.

Other critical features Surfshark VPN offers on FireStick include a kill switch, split tunneling, multiple VPN protocols, and a NoBorders mode to bypass geo-restrictions.

How To Install Surfshark on FireStick

Follow the steps below to install Surfshark on FireStick or Fire TV:

1. Subscribe to Surfshark VPN for FireStick here.

2. Click Find on your Fire TV or FireStick home screen.

3. Select Search.

4. Type Surfshark VPN on the search bar using your Fire TV remote, then choose Surfshark VPN on the suggested results.

5. Choose the Surfshark VPN app tile under Apps & Games.

6. Click Download or Get to install the app on your Fire TV device.

7. Click Open to launch the VPN app once the installation is complete.

8. Select Log in.

9. Enter your email address and password, then click Log in.

10. Select Quick-connect to connect to an automatic server.

11. Click OK to confirm the connection request from Surfshark.

12. To connect to a specific server, type your keyword in the search bar at the top left. Alternatively, scroll through the provided locations and select a location of your choice.

13. You can then choose between a Static or MultiHop IP address.

14. Click the Features icon at the top left to customize your Surfshark app features.

Why We Chose ExpressVPN As the Best VPN for FireStick Overall

Hundreds of VPN providers are out there, and every single one claims to be the best. Zeroing in on one VPN wasn’t easy. It took us extensive research and hundreds of tests to choose ExpressVPN as the overall best VPN for FireStick.

Here are some reasons why ExpressVPN is the best VPN for FireStick:

• Speed:ExpressVPN is widely considered the fastest VPN. We tested those claims and were convinced of their validity.No VPN can offer 100% of the original speed of your connection. But ExpressVPN gets very close by going as high as 95%. I consistently achieved a speed of 95-96 Mbps on various ExpressVPN servers on a 100 Mbps connection. IPVanish and CyberGhost could barely manage 70-75%. All ExpressVPN servers are not as fast. Speed depends upon the server you are connected to and its proximity to your location. However, compared to the same server locations of other VPN services, ExpressVPN servers are faster.
  
• Encryption and Security: ExpressVPN uses the OpenVPN protocol, powered by the AES 256-Bit encryption protocol. It is the strongest encryption technology in the world and is used by the US Military to protect classified data.ExpressVPN also has several critical security and privacy features that ensure your online activities are never compromised. These features include a kill switch that instantly blocks your internet connection when disconnected from the VPN server, split tunneling, and protection against a DNS Leak, IP Leak, and WebRTC Leak.
  
• Zero Log Policy: ExpressVPN is headquartered in the British Virgin Islands(BVI), with no data retention laws. The company has a strict no-log policy such that even if it is forced to provide user logs, it would have nothing to disclose.
  
• Easy-To-Use App: The ExpressVPN app for Amazon Fire TV Stick is probably the easiest to use. All you have to do is push a button and connect to the last connected location or the app-recommended location. The app also lets you quickly and easily choose any other server in any location.
  
• Jurisdiction: As mentioned earlier, ExpressVPN is based in BVI, which does not fall under any major or minor surveillance alliance such as 5, 9, or 14-Eyes.Your online activities are completely safe.
  
• Customer Service: ExpressVPN offers round-the-clock support via Live Chat and email. Only a very few VPN services provide Live Chat service. It could be handy if you wish to get instant support, which is not possible via email.
  
• 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee: ExpressVPN offers a 30-day full refund guarantee. It gives you ample time to test and try it. However, if you intend to use a VPN for FireStick, I am confident you will not feel the need to go for the return.

How To Use a VPN on FireStick?

Using a VPN on FireStick varies depending on the provider and app features. I have provided the steps to connect to a VPN for each VPN above.However, below are the general steps to using a VPN on a Fire TV device:

• Go to the VPN’s official website and purchase your preferred subscription.
• Install the VPN app from the Amazon App Store on your Fire TV device. To do this, click Find>Search, then select Get or Download when you find the VPN app in the store.
• Launch the app on your FireStick once the download is complete.
• Log in to your VPN account using the credentials you used when purchasing a subscription.
• Once logged in, explore the available servers and choose your preferred one. For instance, choose a UK server to stream Netflix UK.
• Click Connect to establish a VPN connection. You should see a connected status once a secure connection is established.
• Test whether the VPN works by performing a DNS Leak or IP Address test.
• If the tests confirm a secure VPN connection, browse and stream anonymously and securely.

What To Do When a VPN Doesn’t Have a Dedicated FireStick App

Some VPN services don’t have a dedicated app for FireStick. There are two workarounds if your VPN doesn’t have a standalone FireStick app. These are:

1. Installing the Android VPN app on FireStick using the Downloader app.
2. Installing the VPN on your router.

For more details on sideloading an app on FireStick, see our guide to sideloading apps on FireStick using Downloader. As for the router method, not all VPN services have a dedicated router VPN. If your preferred VPN service offers a router VPN, follow the provider’s instructions to set up the VPN on your router.

The Best Free VPN For FireStick

There are many free VPNs. However, remember that most free VPNs do more harm than good. Therefore, I DO NOT recommend a free VPN.

For instance, some free VPNs obtain and sell user data. Also, your security and privacy may be compromised occasionally because these services lack enough funds to set up world-class encryption and security features. The free service may also mean putting up with ads to sustain the free service.

Some paid VPNs offer limited free service, which is not good enough for most users.Below are the top free VPNs for FireStick:

1. Windscribe

Windscribe comes first on the list of the best free VPNs for FireStick for various reasons. First, the VPN has a dedicated FireStick app that’s easy to set up and use. Secondly, it has fast speeds on nearby servers and unblocks Netflix UK and BBC iPlayer.

Thirdly, Windscribe has reliable servers in over ten countries. This is a good number for a free VPN. Lastly, it does not keep user logs and has no DNS or IP leaks.

On the flip side, Windscibe applies a limit of 10 GB of data monthly, which may not be ideal if you stream a lot of content. Also, it has slower speeds on international servers.

2. Hotspot Shield

Hotspot Shield is a VPN service based in the US, offering both paid and free packages. The free package is among the best in the market, with incredible speeds, solid encryption technology, P2P file sharing, and torrenting support. It is also one of the few VPNs that work in China.

Moreover, Hotspot Shield unblocks Netflix geo-restrictions which is rare with free VPNs. It also has crucial security features like Kill Switch and advanced VPN protocols.

Hotspot Shield is not without a few drawbacks associated with free VPNs. For instance, it has a controversial data logging policy and scanty customer support.

3. Hide.me

True to its name, Hide.me is the most private free VPN for FireStick. It has additional privacy features to guarantee your online privacy and anonymity. It also upholds the zero log policy, unlike most free VPNs.

Hide.me has a dedicated app for FireStick for easy installation and set-up. It also boasts military-grade AES-256-bit encryption technology. With a monthly data cap of 10GB, there is enough data to stream your content if you are not a heavy streamer.

The VPN has its fair share of flaws, including the inability to unblock Netflix and poor customer support. Additionally, it offers only five server locations.

4. Proton VPN

Proton VPN is another VPN service with free and paid plans. With a free plan, you get various security and privacy features to stream securely on FireStick. First, ProtonVPN has a standalone app made for Fire TV devices.

Secondly, unlike most free VPNs that put a data limit, Proton VPN has an unlimited data usage policy. Thirdly, your data is safe with Proton VPN, thanks to its strict no-log policy. Moreover, pop-up ads will not interrupt your streaming like some free VPNs.

However, Proton VPN does not permit torrenting on free servers. Also, you only get three server locations with the free plan. Lastly, it’s incapable of unblocking geo-restricted content on Netflix and other apps.

5. Atlas VPN

Lastly, on this list, we have Atlas VPN. It is yet another VPN service with free and premium plans. Atlas VPN’s free package offers incredible security and privacy features to aid in secure streaming on Fire TV devices.

Firstly, it offers a dedicated app for FireStick devices alongside other devices like Windows, MacOS, iOS, Linux, and Android. You can choose solid and reliable servers from three locations and browse securely on unlimited devices simultaneously.

Atlas VPN has no speed limits, giving you a buffer-free streaming experience. However, AtlasVPN enforces a 5GB data cap per month, leaving inadequate allowance to stream and download content on your device.

VPN Not Working on FireStick? 5 Quick Solutions

Is your VPN on FireStick not working? Various factors may cause problems on your VPN, from a poor internet connection and cache accumulation to server errors. Here are five quick solutions to VPN not working on FireStick:

Check Your Internet Connection

Network problems are a top cause of VPN problems. Check whether your internet is functioning correctly by opening an online service on another device or app. If a faulty connection prevents the VPN from connecting to servers, fix it. You can troubleshoot your router, restart your device or check with your internet service provider.

Connect to Another Server

VPN servers in particular locations may experience connection issues leaving you with a faulty connection. To fix this issue, change to another server in another location. Also, switch to servers near you for a strong connection and incredible speeds.

Clear App Cache

Like other FireStick apps, VPN apps accumulate data cache over time which may cause the app to misbehave. Clear the app cache to fix a VPN not working on Fire TV. You can do it from within the app or click Settings > Applications > Manage Applications, select your VPN app and click clear cache.

Restart the App and FireStick

A force-close and a restart are basic troubleshooting solutions when apps and devices are not working. First, force close and restart the VPN app to see if the issue is resolved. If the problem persists, restart your FireStick. To restart FireStick, click Settings > My Fire TV > Restart.

Update the VPN App

Using an outdated VPN app may also cause connection or operational problems. These include freezing of the app, failure to connect to servers, and buffering while streaming. To fix the problem, update the app.

FAQs

Which is the best VPN for FireStick?

Everything considered, ExpressVPN is easily the best VPN for FireStick. It is the fastest and most secure VPN. It has the most stable servers allowing uninterrupted connections and nearly no downtime. While ExpressVPN may seem a bit costly compared to other VPNs on the list, it makes sure there are no compromises when it comes to your privacy and online security.

What’s the Cheapest VPN for Firestick and Fire TV?

While there are way cheaper VPNs for FireStick, Surfshark is the best budget-friendly VPN with military-grade security and privacy features.

Can you use a free VPN on Fire Stick?

Yes, you can use a free VPN on FireStick. However, beware of the various drawbacks of free VPNs, including compromised security and privacy, logging user information, and limited data limit.

How much does a VPN cost for Amazon Fire Stick?

VPNs for FireStick prices vary depending on features, brand popularity, location, and other factors.

Why does my Download Speed Decrease when Using a VPN for Firestick?

A VPN adds extra steps that your data flow has to bypass when traveling from your device to the web. Additionally, data will travel slower if connected to an overloaded VPN server. For these reasons, your download speed decreases when using a VPN for FireStick.

Does Surfshark VPN Work with Netflix?

Yes, Surfshark is one of the best VPNs to unblock Netflix geo-restrictions. You can use it to unlock content from various locations, including Netflix’s US library.

Winding Up

A good VPN for FireStick should be fast, secure, and reliable. The VPN app should be lightweight to save space on your device. Other features that make a VPN suitable for Fire TV devices include a kill switch, split tunneling, multiple VPN protocols, and the ability to bypass geo-restrictions. All-in-all, ExpressVPN stands out as the best FireStick VPN.

Related