When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.
5 Best VPNs for Crunchyroll in 2026
Our experts have reviewed 53 VPN providers, which were put through extensive rounds of testing. To learn more about that process, here’s how we review VPNs, where we explain our criteria and our policy of being fully transparent.
Crunchyroll is one of the largest anime streaming platforms, especially after acquiring Funimation, but its library is geo-restricted. The full catalog is only available in the US, while viewers elsewhere are limited to regional libraries. If you try accessing Crunchyroll from a restricted location, you’ll see the error: “Restricted Content. This cannot be viewed with your current Content Restrictions setting.”
A VPN solves this by giving you a US IP address, letting you unblock Crunchyroll’s complete library from anywhere. It’s also useful for US residents traveling abroad who want to keep watching anime as if they were at home. Beyond access, a Crunchyroll VPN can:
- Unblock Crunchyroll worldwide – Get past regional restrictions, access the US library, and even bypass IP bans.
- Stream while traveling – Watch your full US account abroad by connecting to an American server.
- Bypass ISP throttling – Prevent your Internet provider from slowing down streaming speeds by hiding your traffic.
- Block ads and trackers – Improve streaming by avoiding interruptions and protecting your privacy.
In this article, we’ll share the 5 best VPNs for Crunchyroll and review them based on several crucial factors. We’ll also provide step-by-step guides on how to watch Crunchyroll with a VPN and how to watch it on different devices. Furthermore, we’ll discuss why you need a VPN, how to troubleshoot your VPN if it’s not working with Crunchyroll, and much more.
Crunchyroll and VPNs: Are They Legal?
Using a VPN with Crunchyroll is legal, but the platform actively tries to block VPN traffic to enforce its regional licensing agreements. If you connect through a VPN, Crunchyroll may detect and restrict your access by showing an error message or even temporarily banning the IP address you’re using. This usually happens because many people share the same VPN server IP, which can look suspicious to Crunchyroll’s systems.
While VPNs themselves are legal, the experience you get depends on the type of service you use. Free VPNs are more likely to be blocked because they have limited servers that get quickly flagged for excessive traffic. For smooth, uninterrupted access to Crunchyroll, a reliable paid VPN with a strong no-logs policy and streaming-optimized servers is the safer choice.
The Best VPNs for Crunchyroll in 2026
A reliable VPN for Crunchyroll should unblock the platform anywhere while delivering smooth, buffer-free anime streaming. Beyond bypassing geo-restrictions, the best Crunchyroll VPNs offer fast speeds, strong security, and apps that work across all major devices. Here are the key features to look for:
✅ Multiple servers in the US and worldwide to access Crunchyroll and other platforms
✅ Fast, stable speeds for HD and 4K anime streaming without interruptions
✅ Strong encryption and secure protocols (WireGuard, OpenVPN, AES-256)
✅ Strict no-logs policy with multiple simultaneous connections
✅ Obfuscation, kill switch, and split tunneling for uninterrupted, private streaming
✅ Apps for desktop, mobile, smart TVs, and streaming devices
✅ Fair pricing, money-back guarantee, and 24/7 customer support
With these standards in mind, VPNs that combine streaming-optimized servers with reliable performance stand out for Crunchyroll users. Based on these criteria, here are the 5 best VPNs for Crunchyroll in 2026:
- NordVPN – Our #1-Rated Best VPN for Crunchyroll in 2026 • 6000+ servers worldwide, including hundreds in the US • NordLynx & AES-256 for secure, buffer-free streaming • SmartPlay ensures effortless Crunchyroll access anywhere
- Surfshark – Speedy Crunchyroll VPN with Unlimited Connections • Unlimited devices per account • 3,200+ servers optimized for US streaming • NoBorders mode & CleanWeb for smooth anime streaming
- ExpressVPN – Fully Automated VPN for First-Time Users • Servers in 105+ countries, including major US hubs • Lightway protocol for fast, reliable streaming • TrustedServer tech & Smart DNS for uninterrupted Crunchyroll access
- CyberGhost VPN – Streaming-Optimized VPN with Tons of Servers • Thousands of streaming-optimized servers in 100+ locations • WireGuard & OpenVPN for smooth HD and 4K playback • Dedicated streaming servers for consistent, buffer-free performance
- Private Internet Access – High-End VPN for Experienced Users • Servers in 90+ countries, including multiple US hubs • WireGuard & OpenVPN with advanced customization • Unlimited devices with split tunneling and port forwarding
1. NordVPN
NordVPN is the best Crunchyroll VPN that can unblock Crunchyroll effortlessly and give you access to its full library, available in the US. It has 8,900+ servers in 129 countries, including 1,970+ servers in 16 US states. This VPN can also unblock many other streaming sites.
Thanks to NordVPN’s double encryption feature and obfuscated servers, you’ll be able to bypass any IP ban and get Crunchyroll unblocked without being detected. Other security and privacy features you’ll get from this provider include a no-logs policy, a kill switch, secure VPN protocols (NordLynx (WireGuard-based), OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, and NordWhisper), and AES-256-GCM, ChaCha20, and Post-Quantum Encryption (NordLynx Protocol) encryption.
NordVPN offers ultra-fast connection speeds and reliable performance. It's among the fastest VPN services, introducing barely noticeable throttling. No matter if you pick a nearby or remote server (based on your physical location), Crunchyroll will work without slowdowns.
With this VPN for Crunchyroll, you can watch the streaming service on a number of different devices, including laptops, PCs, phones, Smart TVs, consoles, tablets, routers, and more. It allows 10 simultaneous connections and offers easy-to-use apps for many platforms.
You can try NordVPN’s services risk-free thanks to its 30-day money-back guarantee. And if you don’t like its services, you can request a full refund via its 24/7 live chat customer support.
Why NordVPN Is a Must-Have for Crunchyroll
- Use SmartPlay → Unlock Crunchyroll worldwide without extra setup or configuration.
- Switch to NordLynx → Enjoy smooth HD and 4K anime streaming with no buffering.
- Connect to US servers → Access Crunchyroll’s largest anime catalog instantly.
- Turn on Threat Protection → Block ads, malware, and trackers while you stream.
- Enable Smart DNS → Watch Crunchyroll easily on Apple TV, consoles, and other devices.
PROS
- Unblocks Crunchyroll with ease.
- Works with many streaming sites.
- Ultra-fast performance.
- 24/7 live chat support.
- 30-day money-back policy.
CONS
- Not all servers are obfuscated.
2. Surfshark
Surfshark is a beginner-friendly VPN for Crunchyroll with excellent content-unblocking features. It can help you unblock Crunchyroll from anywhere, along with many other popular streaming platforms. With this VPN, you get access to 4,500+ servers in 100 countries, including 600+ servers in 25 US cities.
With Surfshark, you can bypass IP bans and stream Crunchyroll without interruptions. It comes with obfuscated servers, a no-logs policy, military-grade encryption (AES-256-GCM (OpenVPN and IKEv2), ChaCha20 (WireGuard), and Post-Quantum Encryption (WireGuard)), secure VPN protocols (WireGuard, IKEv2, and OpenVPN), data leak protection, a Multi-Hop feature, and many other similar features that’ll ensure your real location is hidden, along with your personal information.
Surfshark is great for seamless streaming in both HD and 4K. It’s one of the fastest providers out there, offering ultra-fast connection speeds and stable performance.
What’s best, you can use this VPN on an unlimited number of devices simultaneously. It’s compatible with all the platforms and devices on which Crunchyroll is available, including phones, tablets, laptops, PCs, routers, gaming consoles, smart TVs, and more.
Surfshark comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee that you can use as a risk-free trial of its services. Finally, you’ll get 24/7 customer support via the live chat feature available on Surfshark’s website.
Technologies That Make Surfshark Great for Crunchyroll
- Enable Smart DNS → Watch Crunchyroll on smart TVs, consoles, and other devices without native VPN apps.
- Turn on NoBorders Mode → Bypass restrictions in blocked regions and unlock Crunchyroll from anywhere in the world.
- Activate CleanWeb → Remove ads and block trackers for a smoother, uninterrupted anime streaming experience.
- Use FastTrack → Get automatically connected to the fastest servers for lag-free Crunchyroll playback.
- Connect to streaming-ready servers → Enjoy reliable access not just to Crunchyroll but also Hulu, Netflix, and Prime Video.
PROS
- Unblocks Crunchyroll and more.
- Incredibly fast performance.
- Unlimited connections.
- 24/7 live chat support.
- 30-day money-back policy.
CONS
- Takes some time to connect.
3. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is another hugely capable VPN that can easily unblock both the free Crunchyroll version and Crunchyroll premium. It has a server network an undisclosed number of servers in 105 countries, including the entire US. You can also use it to access other popular streaming platforms.
If Crunchyroll banned your IP address because you violated its Terms of Service, you won't be able to access the platform again with that IP. With ExpressVPN, you can bypass a Crunchyroll ban, as you’ll get a different US IP address.
ExpressVPN can get Crunchyroll unblocked without the streamer noticing that you’re using a VPN to do so. So, what makes ExpressVPN special? Well, for one, the provider offers powerful obfuscated servers that hide that you’re using a VPN.
In addition, ExpressVPN comes with robust security and privacy features that will keep you safe and help you avoid an IP ban. These include a capable kill switch that shuts down your Internet connection if your VPN is down, a no-logs policy, secure VPN protocols (vpn expressvpn protocols]), and military-grade encryption (AES-256 and ChaCha20/Poly1305).
As one of the fastest VPNs available, ExpressVPN has lightning-fast connections and stable performance ideal for 4K streaming. You can make 10-14 simultaneous connections, including phones, laptops, PCs, smart TVs, gaming consoles, routers, and more. This provider also has a 30-day money-back guarantee and reliable 24/7 customer support. If you want to learn how to set it up, just follow our simple ExpressVPN setup guide.
Why ExpressVPN is a top pick for streaming Crunchyroll anywhere:
- Use Lightway Turbo → Enjoy smooth HD/4K anime streaming even on slower networks or mobile data.
- Enable Split Tunneling → Watch Crunchyroll on the VPN while keeping your other apps on normal internet.
- Rely on TrustedServer Technology → Get faster speeds and secure, RAM-only servers for worry-free anime binges.
- Use MediaStreamer (Smart DNS) → Stream Crunchyroll on devices that don’t natively support VPN apps, like smart TVs.
- Count on Future-Ready Tech → Stay protected with evolving privacy tools designed for streaming platforms.
PROS
- Unblock any streaming site.
- Can bypass a Crunchyroll ban.
- Fast connections and performance.
- 24/7 live chat support.
- 30-day money-back policy.
CONS
- Limited customization.
4. CyberGhost VPN
With CyberGhost, you get streaming-optimized servers for a better Crunchyroll experience. This VPN comes with strong content-unblocking capabilities, so it can easily unblock Crunchyroll and many other streaming platforms. It has a large network of an undisclosed number of servers in 100 countries, including 1,400+ servers in 11 US states.
Sadly, CyberGhost doesn’t offer obfuscation, so it might have trouble bypassing Crunchyroll’s VPN detection. That said, its NoSpy servers should help shield your VPN activity. If you get a Crunchyroll ban, you can easily switch to another US server and continue watching.
CyberGhost is a very secure VPN for Crunchyroll with all the features you need to stay safe online. Namely, it comes with a no-logs policy, a kill switch, secure VPN protocols such OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard, AES-256-GCM and ChaCha20 encryption, and data leak protection.
As for speed, it’s not the fastest VPN out there, but it can get the job done. You can expect medium-fast connections with reliable performance on all its servers. CyberGhost allows 7 simultaneous connections and supports many Crunchyroll-friendly devices, such as phones, laptops, PCs, consoles, routers, Smart TVs, and more.
CyberGhost comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee on its longer-term subscriptions and a 14-day money-back guarantee on its monthly plans. Also, the VPN provides reliable 24/7 customer support via live chat.
CyberGhost Streaming Highlights for Crunchyroll Fans:
- Enable Smart DNS → Enjoy Crunchyroll on smart TVs, Apple TV, PlayStation, and Xbox with no setup hassle.
- Use Streaming-Optimized Servers → Access Crunchyroll US and other libraries smoothly with servers built for streaming.
- Activate NoSpy Servers → Get high-speed, private streaming through independently operated, secure servers.
- Set Custom Smart Rules → Auto-connect to the best server the moment you launch your Crunchyroll app.
PROS
- 1,000+ US servers.
- Unblocks Crunchyroll with ease.
- 7 simultaneous connections.
- 24/7 live chat support.
- 45-day money-back guarantee.
CONS
- Doesn’t offer obfuscation.
- Not the fastest option.
5. Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access (PIA) is an excellent provider that can handily unblock Crunchyroll and many other streaming sites with no issues. It has servers in all 50 US states, making it ideal for accessing the full Crunchyroll library. Overall, PIA has the largest server fleet on the market, containing undisclosed number of servers in 91 countries.
Almost all PIA’s servers offer obfuscation, which is excellent as you’ll be able to unblock Crunchyroll without getting banned. Also, this VPN for anime comes with a kill switch, a no-logs policy, secure VPN protocols including WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IPsec (IKEv2), military-grade encryption (AES-128-GCM, AES-256-GCM, AES-128-CBC, AES-256-CBC, and ChaCha20), and a Multi-Hop feature.
PIA is highly customizable compared to other VPNs, allowing you to pick which protocol you want to use and increase or decrease your level of encryption. However, it offers average Internet connection speeds, so you might experience Crunchyroll buffering from time to time. Nonetheless, you’ll get reliable performance with PIA.
This provider supports a wide range of devices you can use to install the Crunchyroll app and stream on the go, including phones, tablets, laptops, PCs, routers, smart TVs, consoles, and more. Better yet, you can make unlimited simultaneous connections with PIA.
If you have any issues, PIA’s 24/7 customer support will be available via live chat. Lastly, you’ll be eligible for its 30-day money-back guarantee regardless of your plan price.
Standout PIA Features for Crunchyroll:
- Switch to WireGuard → Enjoy fast connections for streaming anime in HD and 4K without lag.
- Connect to US servers → Access the complete Crunchyroll library, including exclusive titles available only in the US.
- Set up Custom DNS → Avoid Crunchyroll VPN blocks and keep streaming smoothly on configured devices.
- Enable Port Forwarding → Enhance stability on apps like Kodi or Plex while watching Crunchyroll.
PROS
- Unlimited simultaneous connections.
- Ability to tweak settings.
- Servers in every US state.
- 24/7 live chat support.
- 30-day money-back guarantee.
CONS
- Best for advanced users.
- Requires some optimization.
How to Unblock Crunchyroll with a VPN
To watch Crunchyroll with a VPN, you must find a provider with US servers that can unblock the entire Crunchyroll library. Then, you should get a subscription. Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need to do:
- Not every VPN can bypass Crunchyroll’s geo-blocks, so you need a provider proven to work with the platform. Therefore, Subscribe to a VPN that works with Crunchyroll (we recommend NordVPN).
- Once you subscribe, head to the official VPN website or app store and download the app. Install it on the devices you’ll use to watch Crunchyroll, such as your computer, smartphone, tablet, smart TV, or even a streaming stick like Fire TV.
- Launch the VPN app and log in with the same account details you used during signup. Most VPNs also allow you to set up multi-device connections, so you can log in on multiple devices at once.
- Crunchyroll’s biggest content library is available in the United States. By choosing a US VPN server, you’ll get a US IP address, tricking Crunchyroll into thinking you’re streaming from inside the country. This unlocks the complete catalog of shows and movies.
- If you’ve previously tried accessing Crunchyroll without a VPN, your browser may have stored location data. Clearing your cache and cookies ensures Crunchyroll reads your new virtual location (US server) correctly and avoids detection issues.
- Launch the Crunchyroll app or website and stream with no restrictions!
How to Watch Crunchyroll on Your Devices
To watch Crunchyroll on your devices, you must subscribe to a VPN (we recommend NordVPN) that is compatible with all of them and able to unblock Crunchyroll. Once you do, simply download and install the VPN app on the devices you’ll use to stream Crunchyroll. Below, you can find step-by-step instructions for watching Crunchyroll on the most popular devices.
1. How to Watch Crunchyroll on Samsung TVs
To watch Crunchyroll on a Samsung TV, you’ll need to find a VPN that works on different routers, as Samsung TVs can’t run native VPN software. Here’s how to do it:
- Sign up for a VPN compatible with routers.
- Download and install the VPN app on your computer.
- Open the VPN app and sign in to your account.
- You may need to download firmware or config files from your VPN’s website.
- Log in to your router’s Web interface via your browser.
- Complete the setup per your VPN and router’s specifications.
- Connect to a VPN server in the US.
- Now every device connected to your router will be protected by the VPN.
- Open Crunchyroll and stream without restrictions.
2. How to Watch Crunchyroll on TVs
To watch Crunchyroll on your TV, you can use a streaming device with a VPN. It will be easiest if your VPN has a native app for your device. Once you pick a Crunchyroll-friendly streaming device, you’ll need to follow these steps:
- Subscribe to a VPN that can unblock Crunchyroll.
- Connect your streaming device to your TV via HDMI.
- Switch the TV input to the appropriate HDMI port with the device.
- Download and install the VPN app on your media player device.
- Open the VPN app and log in to your account.
- Connect to a server in the US to access the complete content library.
- Download and install the Crunchyroll app on your device.
- Log in to your Crunchyroll account to start streaming.
- And you’re done! You can now watch Crunchyroll on your TV!
3. How to Watch Crunchyroll on Roku
To watch Crunchyroll on Roku, you’ll need to install the Crunchyroll app on your Roku device. Then, get a subscription to a VPN that works with both Crunchyroll and routers, as Roku is not natively VPN-friendly. Here’s exactly what to do:
- Get a VPN that works with routers and Crunchyroll.
- Configure the VPN on your router and connect to a US server.
- Connect your Roku device to your router running the VPN.
- Open the “Streaming Channels” option on your Roku device.
- Type in “Crunchyroll” and press search.
- Click the “Add Channel” option and launch the Crunchyroll app.
- Log in to your Crunchyroll account (or register for one).
- Now you can watch Crunchyroll on Roku!
4. How to Watch Crunchyroll on Firestick & Fire TV
To watch Crunchyroll on Firestick and Fire TV, subscribe to a VPN that offers a native app for both Firestick and Fire TV and also works with Crunchyroll. Here’s everything you’ll need to do:
- Get a VPN for Crunchyroll and Firestick/Fire TV.
- Download and install the VPN app on your Firestick or Fire TV.
- Launch the VPN app and log in to your account.
- Connect to a VPN server in the US.
- Open your Firestick or Fire TV and click “Search.”
- Type “Crunchyroll” into the search bar.
- Download and open the app, then log in to your Crunchyroll account.
- Now you can watch Crunchyroll on your Firestick and Fire TV devices!
5. How to Watch Crunchyroll on iPhone & iPad
To watch Crunchyroll on iPhone and iPad, find a VPN that works with iOS devices and can unblock Crunchyroll. Then, get a subscription and connect to a server in the US to access the platform’s entire library. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
- Sign up for a VPN that works with iOS and Crunchyroll.
- Download and install the VPN app on your iOS device.
- Launch the VPN for Crunchyroll and log in to your account.
- Connect to a VPN server in the USA.
- Download, install, and open the Crunchyroll app.
- Log in to your account to watch Crunchyroll on your iPhone and iPad!
6. How to Watch Crunchyroll on Android
To watch Crunchyroll on Android, you must subscribe to a VPN provider that is compatible with both Android devices and Crunchyroll. Here’s everything you’ll need to do:
- Subscribe to a VPN for Android and Crunchyroll.
- Download and install the VPN app on your Android device.
- Open the VPN app and log in to your account.
- Connect to a VPN server in the US.
- Open the Play Store and download the Crunchyroll app.
- Log in to your Crunchyroll account.
- That’s it! Now you can watch Crunchyroll without limits on Android.
What to Watch on Crunchyroll in 2026?
There is a vast selection of the best anime to watch on Crunchyroll, so you can likely find something to suit anyone’s tastes. Though people’s opinions about what anime is the best on Crunchyroll can vary greatly, we looked into which ones are most popular in the entire Crunchyroll library. Below, you’ll find some titles of the best anime on Crunchyroll:
Expert Fixes: How to Solve VPN Issues with Crunchyroll Fast
There are a few reasons why Crunchyroll might not be working with your VPN and a few steps you can try to fix it. Here are some of the most common explanations and solutions:
Is a Free VPN Enough to Stream Crunchyroll?
Yes, technically you can try using a free VPN for Crunchyroll, but it’s rarely a good idea. Free VPNs come with heavy limitations that make them unsuitable for smooth, secure streaming.
Here’s why free VPNs often fail with Crunchyroll:
❌Small server networks → Limited locations cause server overcrowding and slower speeds.
❌ Bandwidth limits → Free VPNs usually cap daily or monthly data, cutting you off mid-stream or blocking HD content.
❌Poor streaming performance → Expect constant buffering, low video quality, and interruptions.
❌Weak unblocking capabilities → Most free VPNs can’t bypass Crunchyroll’s VPN detection and get blocked quickly.
❌Privacy concerns → Free providers often log and sell user data to third parties for profit.
❌No advanced features → Missing tools like obfuscation, kill switch, or leak protection that are crucial for streaming.
With that said, we recommend a premium VPN to stream Crunchyroll. The best VPN providers will allow you to unblock Crunchyroll and access its library without getting banned. Alternatively, you can go for a VPN free trial to get premium features for a limited time.
Our #1 recommendation is NordVPN's free trial, which works on Android for 7 days. However, this VPN also comes with a 30-day money-back policy that applies to other platforms.
Final Thoughts
Crunchyroll is accessible in many countries, but its full content library is only available in the US. So, if you live outside of the US or travel abroad, you won’t be able to access Crunchyroll’s complete library. Luckily, a VPN for Crunchyroll will solve both issues.
We recommend NordVPN as the best Crunchyroll VPN for all anime lovers looking to access everything that Crunchyroll offers. You’ll get access to lightning-fast US servers, robust online protections, and support for all your devices. With NordVPN, you can enjoy your favorite anime and unblock Crunchyroll from anywhere in the world.
For Crunchyroll, Surfshark is a great pick if you want unlimited device connections with smooth anime streaming, while ExpressVPN stands out for first-time users thanks to its fast Lightway protocol and global server coverage. CyberGhost is ideal for those who prefer dedicated, streaming-optimized servers that deliver reliable HD and 4K playback, and Private Internet Access caters to advanced users with its customizable settings, strong security, and support for unlimited devices.
Some Related Guides for your Reference:
- Best VPNs for Netflix → Perfect for anime lovers who also stream on Netflix.
- How to Change Your Region on Crunchyroll → Learn how to bypass restrictions:
- Best VPNs for Disney+ Hotstar → Unlock Asian dramas and movies alongside anime content.
- Best Free VPNs for Streaming (and Why to Avoid Them) → Explains risks and better alternatives to free VPNs.
- Best VPNs for Streaming in General → A comprehensive guide for accessing any major streaming service.
- How to Set Up a VPN on Any Device → Easy instructions for installing and configuring VPNs on all platforms.
That’s all for our guide to choosing a VPN for Crunchyroll. If you have any questions, please share them via the comments section below. Thanks for reading!







