5 Best VPNs for ESPN Plus in 2024

ESPN+ is the biggest US-based sports streaming platform, offering exclusive NFL, MLB, UFC, and NBA games live and on-demand. However, ESPN+ is only available in the US. On top of that, even if you are a US resident, not all content is available from the get-go, as you'll face ESPN and ESPN Plus blackouts based on your location.

Luckily, you can use an ESPN Plus VPN to solve all these problems. With a VPN, you will be able to unblock ESPN+ from anywhere and enjoy its content while traveling outside the US. Plus, you can switch between servers in different US states to avoid blackout restrictions if you’re in a state where a certain event is blocked.

In this article, we'll talk about the best VPN for ESPN Plus and explain how to watch ESPN+ with a VPN. We’ll also share why you need a VPN, how to pick the best one, how to bypass an ESPN Plus blackout, how to troubleshoot issues, and plenty more.

Best ESPN and ESPN Plus VPNs - Our Shortlist

1. NordVPN – Our #1-Rated Best VPN for ESPN and ESPN Plus
2. Surfshark – User-Friendly ESPN+ VPN with Impressive Speeds
3. ExpressVPN – Streaming-Friendly VPN That Works with ESPN+
4. CyberGhost VPN – Affordable VPN with Tons of Specialized Servers
5. Private Internet Access – Most Advanced VPN for High-End Users

How to Watch ESPN Plus with a VPN

To watch ESPN Plus with a VPN, you need to subscribe to a reliable VPN provider with servers in the US, download it on your preferred streaming device, and choose a US server. Let’s see how it’s done:

1. Subscribe to a VPN that works with ESPN+ (we recommend NordVPN).
2. Download and install the VPN app on your device(s).
3. Open the app and sign in.
4. Connect to a US server where there are no blackouts for your desired event. 
5. That’s it! Now you can launch ESPN+ and start streaming. 

By connecting to a US server, you’ll get a US IP address, which will help unblock ESPN and ESPN Plus. You can also follow the same process to unblock other US-based sites.

The Best VPNs for ESPN and ESPN+ in 2024

When choosing the best VPN for ESPN Plus, you should follow a few key criteria that we set in our best streaming VPN guide. First, the VPN should unblock ESPN+ from everywhere, along with other streaming services. Therefore, it must have an extensive server network with servers in the US so you can access the platform.

You should search for an ESPN+ VPN with fast speeds and reliable performance. Furthermore, your chosen VPN must come with obfuscated servers to hide that you’re using a VPN and a kill switch that will activate if there is a connection failure. Also, it should also provide additional security features, such as robust encryption, secure protocols, and a strict no-logs policy.

Next, it must be compatible with many devices and support multiple simultaneous connections so that you can watch ESPN and ESPN+ from anywhere. Lastly, the best VPN that works with ESPN Plus should have a money-back policy and reliable customer support so you can try it risk-free and resolve any technical issues in no time.

According to the criteria above, here are the 5 best VPNs for ESPN+:

1. NordVPN – Our #1-Rated Best VPN for ESPN and ESPN Plus

NordVPN is the best VPN for ESPN, with a network of over 5,800 servers in 60 countries, which means that it can unblock the streaming platform from anywhere. By connecting to one of its 1,970+ US servers in 15 cities, you can bypass all geo-restrictions and access the platform outside the US, as well as avoid blackouts. This VPN also works with other streaming platforms.

This VPN for ESPN Plus employs obfuscated servers and a kill switch. Moreover, NordVPN has a strict no-logs policy, multiple protocol options (including its proprietary NordLynx), and AES-256 encryption, further enhancing your online security.

We can also praise NordVPN's performance. No matter if US-based servers are near or far from your physical location, you can always expect smooth performance and fast speed. You’ll get the same performance on all devices, whether it’s a phone, computer, smart TV, media player, console, or router. Plus, you can have up to 6 simultaneous connections. 

NordVPN will impress you with its 24/7 customer support available through live chat. In addition, you can take advantage of its 30-day money-back guarantee that allows full refunds if NordVPN’s services don’t appeal to you.

2. Surfshark – User-Friendly ESPN+ VPN with Impressive Speeds

Surfshark is a powerful ESPN+ VPN with a wide network of 3,200+ servers located in 100 countries, enabling the VPN to unblock ESPN+ from everywhere, along with other streaming platforms. You just need to connect to any of its 600+ US servers across 25 locations. This will help you bypass any blackout restrictions, too.

If you want a VPN that prioritizes security, Surfshark is perfect. It offers powerful obfuscation and an effective kill-switch feature. Additionally, you will get military-grade AES-256 encryption, the WireGuard protocol, and an independently audited no-logs policy. 

Furthermore, Surfshark comes with lightning-fast speeds and consistent connections, making it a great option for streaming. Also, it supports a lot of different devices and has apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. The cherry on top is that you will get unlimited simultaneous connections.

Last but not least, Surfshark offers reliable customer support, available at all times, and a 30-day money-back guarantee. You can get a full refund if you’re unsatisfied with its overall performance.

3. ExpressVPN – Streaming-Friendly VPN That Works with ESPN+

ExpressVPN is a sophisticated yet simple-to-use VPN that works with ESPN+, no matter where you’re located—along with other popular streaming sites. This is possible thanks to an extensive server fleet with 3,000+ servers in 105 countries, including US servers in 15+ locations. It can also bypass blackout restrictions.

This VPN provides obfuscation on all of its servers, which is crucial for hiding that you’re even using a VPN. Besides that, you will benefit from the kill switch feature that makes sure none of your personal information is leaked if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly.

As one of the most secure VPNs, this provider has military-grade AES-256 encryption, an independently audited no-logs policy, and strong VPN protocols like Lightway, OpenVPN, and IKEv2. Regarding performance, ExpressVPN delivers ultra-fast speeds and stable connections, which are a must for a great streaming experience with ESPN+. 

This fantastic VPN is compatible with many devices, offering dedicated apps for Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux. Moreover, you can connect up to 8 devices simultaneously. 

If you have any issues, you can always contact ExpressVPN’s customer support, which is available 24/7. Last but not least, the provider comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, giving you a chance to try out its services and get a refund if you’re unsatisfied.

4. CyberGhost VPN – Affordable VPN with Tons of Specialized Servers

CyberGhost is a highly capable VPN that works with ESPN+ as it comes with a huge server fleet of 9,500 servers in 100+ countries. It also unblocks other top streaming services. With its 1,453 US servers in 10+ locations, you can easily avoid blackout restrictions.

This VPN for ESPN Plus might not offer obfuscated servers, but its unique NoSpy servers are quite similar and help you cover your online activities. Furthermore, its kill switch feature will protect you if your connection suddenly fails.

Besides these features, CyberGhost also implements AES-256 encryption, an audited no-logs policy, and robust VPN protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2. Unfortunately, these protocols aren’t enough for it to be the fastest VPN. However, you will still get decent speeds and reliable performance.

If you decide to utilize CyberGhost, you will get 7 simultaneous connections and support for smartphones, computers, routers, media players, game consoles, and more. 

This affordable VPN offers a 14-day money-back guarantee for its monthly plan and a 45-day money-back guarantee for all other plans. Therefore, you can get a refund if you don’t find its services sufficient. All this is accompanied by the provider’s excellent customer support that will help with any issues that may arise.

5. Private Internet Access – Most Advanced VPN for High-End Users

Private Internet Access VPN (PIA) is a robust VPN to watch ESPN Plus, with an extensive network of thousands of servers across 84 countries that will help you unblock ESPN+ no matter where you are—plus any other streamers. Simply connect to one of its US servers available in all 50 states. This will also help you bypass all blackout restrictions in the US. 

PIA is great for streaming ESPN Plus because it has obfuscated servers that hide your VPN usage and a kill switch that makes sure your real location doesn’t leak. In addition, it also utilizes AES-265 encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and strong VPN protocols, such as WireGuard and OpenVPN.

In terms of speed, PIA is decently fast and performs well, which is crucial for a seamless streaming experience. However, it’s definitely slower than ExpressVPN. 

PIA provides dedicated apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. Even better, it supports an unlimited number of simultaneous connections. 

Lastly, PIA guarantees 24/7 customer support and a 30-day money-back policy that results in a risk-free streaming journey.

Why Do You Need a VPN to Watch ESPN Plus?

You need a VPN to watch ESPN Plus outside the US because it is geo-restricted in other countries. If you try to stream from unsupported regions, ESPN+ will show you the following message: “We are unable to play this video at the moment. Please try again later.” 

However, there are numerous other reasons to get an ESPN+ VPN. So, let’s explore them:

• Access ESPN+ Outside the US – The bad news is that ESPN Plus is only available in the US. The good news is that you can unblock the platform using a VPN with a lot of US servers. So, no matter if you live or travel outside the US, a VPN that works with ESPN+ is all you need to stay on top of the latest sports events.
• Avoid ESPN Plus Blackout Issues – ESPN and ESPN+ often have blackouts that will restrict even US sports fans from watching their favorite content. To bypass ESPN blackouts, use a VPN and choose a server in an area outside the blackout zone.
• Bypass Bandwidth Throttling – If your ISP detects you are using a lot of data in a short timeframe, it will sometimes slow your connection down, which is terrible for streaming live sports. With a VPN, your ISP won’t be able to see how much data you use.
• Hide Your Browsing History - Your ISP can also see your browsing history, and the same applies to websites and online services. The only way to regain your privacy on the Web is to use a VPN with strong enough encryption to hide what you do online.
• Hide Your IP Address - When using ESPN+ with a VPN, the streaming service won't see your actual IP address. Instead, it'll see your VPN's IP, which is how you'll bypass its geo-blocks but also prevent ESPN and other sites from seeing your location.
• Connect Safely via Public/Hotel Wi-Fi - Using public or hotel Wi-Fi networks can be a privacy nightmare, as those networks revolve around aggressive data logging. With a VPN, you can turn even the most vulnerable Wi-Fi network into a highly secure one.

How to Choose the Best ESPN+ VPN?

The best VPN to watch ESPN Plus must be able to unblock the platform at any moment, and it should have a large server network and streaming-friendly features. Find more details below.

• Ability to Unblock ESPN Plus - Without any doubt, the most important feature to look for is the ability to unblock ESPN Plus on any device you own, any time you want. You'll want to be able to just pick a server and access the streaming site with no fuss.
• Server Network Size and Distribution - To unblock ESPN and ESPN+, your chosen VPN should offer US-based servers. However, pick one with servers in more US states, especially if your goal is to bypass blackouts on the streaming service.
• Speed and Performance - Your VPN should aid you in streaming. That means slowdowns and throttling should not happen. So, you'll want a fast VPN with stable performance, as that's how you'll get the highest-resolution video possible.
• Access to Obfuscated Servers - Obfuscation allows your VPN to use smaller data packets, which is how it can bypass even the most advanced blocks. It's also useful for avoiding anti-VPN systems employed by countries with heavy censorship.
• Privacy and Security - The best VPN for ESPN Plus should offer OpenVPN with AES-256, as that's the strongest VPN protocol currently available. Another option is WireGuard, which can also bypass geo-blocks without slowing you down.
• Sufficient Number of Simultaneous Connections - Plan to watch ESPN Plus with a VPN on your computer, phone, and a large-screen TV? In that case, you'll need several connections and native apps for all your devices.
• Customer Support - Don't miss out on any games just because your VPN is having technical issues. If you pick an ESPN+ VPN with 24/7 live chat support, you'll get to resolve issues in no time and return to streaming without interruption.
• Money-Back Policy - Secure your purchase by getting a VPN with a solid money-back policy. Most VPNs give you around 30 days to test-drive them, which is enough time to test all their features and capabilities.

How to Get Around ESPN Plus Blackout Restrictions?

A VPN will help you bypass ESPN Plus blackout restrictions. To make that happen, find a reliable VPN and install it on your device. Then, connect to a server where the event is being aired. Once you do that, open your ESPN+ app and enjoy your favorite sports games. 

ESPN+ implements regional blackouts so it can protect rights holders’ rights. In other words, ESPN signs broadcast agreements with local channels and cable providers, which restrict in-market games on ESPN’s broadcast network. For example, if ABC wants exclusive rights to air a particular game on the East Coast, it will only be available on ESPN+ in that area.

In other words, ESPN will introduce blackouts in areas where the game shouldn't be broadcast live. It does that based on IP addresses. If your IP address belongs to a US state where the game is blacked out, ESPN will prevent your access until the game ends.

A VPN helps you sidestep that issue by giving you a new IP address. Let's say you connect to a server in Los Angeles. You'll immediately receive an IP pointing to that city, telling ESPN Plus you're located there at the moment - so you can live-stream any game from your home.

ESPN Plus Not Working with a VPN - How to Fix?

If ESPN Plus isn’t working with your VPN, there are a number of reasons that may be happening. Even the most reputable VPNs sometimes encounter errors. But don’t worry! We’ve come up with the most helpful techniques for fixing “ESPN+ not working with VPN” issues:

• Check Your Internet Connection - Before trying anything else, see if your connection works as it should. Close your VPN and try browsing the Web to see if everything works properly. If not, you should turn to your Internet provider for assistance.
• Switch to a Different Server – Sometimes, VPN servers can get overcrowded, which results in ESPN Plus buffering. Server IPs can also sometimes get banned if they’re detected as belonging to a VPN. However, almost all VPNs come with a decent number of US servers, so just connect to another one and see if it solves the issue.
• Turn On Obfuscation – In order to prevent ESPN+ from detecting your VPN, you should find a provider with obfuscated servers. They hide that you’re using a VPN, so you’ll have unrestricted access to ESPN Plus’s content.
• Change Your VPN Protocol – Some VPN protocols are weaker than others and cause issues when streaming ESPN+. Fortunately, each provider offers a few VPN protocols, so you can easily switch to a better one. The best option is to use WireGuard because it’s the strongest and fastest. 
• Remove Cache and Cookies - If you're using a Web browser to stream ESPN Plus, residual cookies and cache might interfere with your new VPN location. Go to your browser's settings and remove any residual files.
• Update the VPN’s Software – Outdated VPN software may cause lagging when you watch your favorite sports. Plus, new updates include patches and bug fixes that can be important for performance. Therefore, make sure you use the latest version of your chosen VPN. 
• Disable Your Device's Firewall - Windows PCs come with the firewall enabled by default, which can sometimes cause issues with VPN connections. To see if that's the case, disable your firewall temporarily.
• Disable Your Device's GPS Location - On mobile devices, ESPN+ might also use GPS data to check your location, in addition to your IP address. To fix this, disable your device's location services and make sure there are no leaks in your VPN tunnel.
• Restart Your Device – If none of the abovementioned tips work, you should restart your device. Then, reconnect to the ESPN Plus VPN and try streaming again.
• Contact Customer Support - Your last resort is to turn to your VPN for assistance. We hope you've picked a VPN with 24/7 live chat support, so you can chat with its agents live and resolve your issue in no time.

Can You Use a Free VPN for ESPN Plus? 

Yes, you can use a free VPN for ESPN Plus. However, we don’t recommend it. This is because free VPNs often come with a few risks. More precisely, free VPN providers are unreliable and can reveal your location. 

They may lack robust security features, meaning they can contribute to data leaks and compromise your privacy. In addition, some free VPNs can even sell your data to third parties, as this is how they make revenue. 

Free VPNs also have limited unblocking capabilities and may interrupt your sports streaming. This is because free VPN providers usually have limited bandwidth and slow speeds, neither of which are suitable for streaming.

Thus, we recommend using paid VPNs that come with lightning-fast speeds that are crucial for issue-free streaming. Or, if you wish to play it safe, go for a free VPN trial. For example, you can take advantage of the NordVPN free trial, available on Android for 7 days. This VPN also offers a 45-day money-back guarantee for other platforms.

Final Thoughts

ESPN+ is hugely popular, but it’s limited to the US. Even US residents with existing accounts who travel can’t access it from other locations. Plus, ESPN and ESPN Plus blackouts are frustratingly common, preventing you from watching games live. That said, the most effective way to unblock the app and bypass blackouts is to use the best VPN for ESPN+.

We recommend NordVPN as the best ESPN Plus VPN, based on our hands-on tests. It offers amazing unblocking capabilities, next-level safety, blazing-fast speeds, and many US servers - all of which make it stand out from its competitors. With NordVPN, you can watch ESPN outside the US and get an uninterrupted streaming experience with no blackout restrictions.

That’s all for our guide to choosing the best VPN for ESPN Plus. If you have any questions, please leave them in the comments section below. Thanks for reading!