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5 Best ESPN+ VPNs in 2024

Last updated June 14, 2024
Written by:
Novak Bozovic
Novak Bozovic
Senior VPN Editor
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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.

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 a 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.

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 Plus VPNs - Our Shortlist

  1. NordVPN – Our Best-Rated VPN for ESPN Plus in 2024
  2. Surfshark – Speedy ESPN+ VPN for Inexperienced Users
  3. ExpressVPN – Capable VPN for ESPN+ for Buffer-Free Streaming
  4. CyberGhost VPN – Automated VPN for ESPN Plus with Optimized Servers
  5. Private Internet Access – Advanced ESPN Plus VPN with Lots of US Servers

How 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 VPN app and sign in using your credentials.
  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 local IP address, which will help unblock ESPN Plus. You can also follow the same process to unblock other US-based sites from abroad.

The Best VPNs for ESPN+ in 2024

When choosing a suitable provider, you should follow a few key criteria that we set in our guide on the best VPN for streaming. 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 a provider 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+ from anywhere. Lastly, the best VPN that works with ESPN Plus should have an affordable price, 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 to watch ESPN Plus:

1. NordVPN – Our Best-Rated VPN for ESPN Plus in 2024

Editor's Pick
Servers
Countries
Apps
Windows
Android
Mac
iOS
Linux
Router
Chromebook
Kindle
Chrome
Firefox
PlayStation
Apple TV
Xbox
Amazon Fire TV
Nintendo Switch
All game consoles
Chromecast
Parallel Connections
Live Chat

NordVPN offers a network of over 6,400 servers in 111 countries, which means that it can unblock ESPN+ 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 employs obfuscated servers across a part of its network and a kill switch. Moreover, NordVPN has a strict no-logs policy, multiple protocol options (including its proprietary NordLynx, in addition to OpenVPN and IKEv2/IPsec), and AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption, further enhancing your online security. You'll also get to eliminate ads, scan for malware, and prevent online trackers.

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 10 simultaneous connections. 

This capable VPN is currently priced at $3.09/month (2-year subscription plan). 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. We'll also mention that NordVPN will impress you with its 24/7 customer support available through live chat.

PROS

  • Works with ESPN+ every time.
  • Can unblock any streaming app.
  • Sizable server network in the US.
  • Handy privacy-first features.
  • 30-day money-back policy.
  • 24/7 customer support

CONS

  • Not all servers are obfuscated.

2. Surfshark – Speedy ESPN+ VPN for Inexperienced Users

Servers
Countries
Apps
Windows
Android
Mac
iOS
Linux
Router
Chrome
Firefox
Amazon Fire TV
All game consoles
All smart TVs
Parallel Connections
Live Chat

Surfshark is a powerful ESPN Plus 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 a perfect choice. It offers powerful obfuscation and an effective kill-switch feature. Additionally, you will get military-grade AES-256 or ChaCha20 data encryption, protocols like OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2/IPsec, and an independently audited no-logs policy. Plus, Surfshark helps you get rid of ads, trackers, and even malware.

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, all of which are really use to use. The cherry on top is that you will get unlimited simultaneous connections.

This VPN's 2-year subscription is priced at $2.19/month, which means you'll get plenty of value for your money. There's also a 30-day money-back guarantee. You can get a full refund if you’re unsatisfied with its overall performance. Last but not least, Surfshark offers reliable customer support, available 24/7, in addition to various other support channels, installation guides, and more.

PROS

  • Unblocks any streaming app.
  • Unlimited simultaneous connections.
  • Incredibly easy to use.
  • Over 600 US servers.
  • 30-day money-back guarantee.
  • 24/7 live chat support.

CONS

  • Spotty connection times.

3. ExpressVPN – Capable VPN for ESPN+ for Buffer-Free Streaming

Servers
Countries
Apps
Windows
Android
Mac
iOS
Linux
Router
Chromebook
Kindle
Nook
Chrome
Firefox
PlayStation
Apple TV
Xbox
Amazon Fire TV
Nintendo Switch
All game consoles
All smart TVs
Chromecast
Roku
Parallel Connections
Live Chat

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 thousands of 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 highlighted in our ExpressVPN full review, this provider offers military-grade AES-256 and WolfSSL encryption, an independently audited no-logs policy, and strong VPN protocols like Lightway, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec. Also, 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. 

ExpressVPN's lowest price is set at $6.67/month (annual plan). 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.If you have any issues, you can always contact ExpressVPN’s customer support, which is available 24/7.

PROS

  • Unblocks ESPN+ with ease.
  • 15+ US server locations.
  • Works on any device.
  • 30-day money-back policy.
  • 24/7 live chat support.

CONS

  • On the pricier side.

4. CyberGhost VPN – Automated VPN for ESPN Plus with Optimized Servers

Servers
Countries
Apps
Windows
Android
Mac
iOS
Linux
Router
Chrome
Firefox
PlayStation
Xbox
Amazon Fire TV
Nintendo Switch
Samsung Smart TV
All game consoles
All smart TVs
Roku
Parallel Connections
Live Chat

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

This VPN might not offer obfuscated servers, but its unique NoSpy servers are quite similar and help you cover up your online activities. Furthermore, its kill switch feature will protect you if your connection suddenly fails. Learn more about that in our full analysis of CyberGhost VPN.

Besides these features, CyberGhost also implements AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption, an audited no-logs policy, and robust VPN protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec. 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. 

CyberGhost costs $2.19/month if you pick its 2-year plan. It 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.

PROS

  • Dedicated ESPN+ servers.
  • Huge server fleet.
  • 1,500+ US-based servers.
  • 45-day money-back guarantee.
  • 24/7 live chat support.

CONS

  • No obfuscation.
  • Medium-fast connection speeds.

5. Private Internet Access – Advanced ESPN Plus VPN with Lots of US Servers

Servers
Countries
Apps
Windows
Android
Mac
iOS
Linux
Router
Chrome
Firefox
PlayStation
Xbox
Amazon Fire TV
Nintendo Switch
Parallel Connections
Live Chat

Private Internet Access VPN (PIA) is a robust and highly advanced VPN provider, with an extensive network of thousands of servers across 90+ 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-128 and AES-265 - as well as ChaCha20 encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and strong VPN protocols, such as WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec.

In terms of speed, PIA is decently fast and performs well, which is crucial for a seamless streaming experience. It's not the speediest option out of the box, so you should be ready to spend some time fine-tuning it as per your needs. That's why we recommend it to more advanced users.

PIA provides dedicated apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. Of course, it also works on dedicated streaming devices, as well as routers. Even better, it supports an unlimited number of simultaneous connections

PIA costs $2.19/month for its 2-year plan. There's a 30-day money-back policy that results in a risk-free streaming journey. Lastly, PIA guarantees 24/7 customer support.

PROS

  • Large server fleet.
  • Servers in every US state.
  • Unlimited simultaneous connections.
  • 30-day money-back guarantee.
  • 24/7 live chat support.

CONS

  • Best for advanced users.
  • Requires some fine-tuning.

Comparing the Best VPNs for ESPN Plus

NordVPN Surfshark ExpressVPN CyberGhost VPN PIA VPN
Unblocks ESPN Plus YES YES YES YES YES
Server Network Size 6,400+ servers
111 countries
3,200+ servers
100 countries
N/A
105 countries
N/A
100 countries
N/A
90+ countries
Performance Ultra-fast Fast Ultra-fast Medium Medium
VPN Protocols OpenVPN
IKEv2/IPsec
NordLynx
OpenVPN
IKEv2/IPsec
WireGuard
OpenVPN
IKEv2/IPsec
Lightway
OpenVPN
IKEv2/IPsec
WireGuard
OpenVPN
IKEv2/IPsec
WireGuard
No-Logs Policy YES YES YES YES YES
Obfuscated Servers YES YES YES NO YES
Kill Switch YES YES YES YES YES
Simultaneous Connections 10 Unlimited 8 7 Unlimited
Supported Devices Windows
macOS
Linux
Android
iOS/iPadOS
Android TV
Apple TV
Fire TV
Routers
Windows
macOS
Linux
Android
iOS/iPadOS
Android TV
Apple TV
Fire TV
Routers
Windows
macOS
Linux
Android
iOS/iPadOS
Android TV
Apple TV
Fire TV
Routers
Windows
macOS
Linux
Android
iOS/iPadOS
Android TV
Fire TV
Routers
Windows
macOS
Linux
Android
iOS/iPadOS
Android TV
Apple TV
Fire TV
Routers
Pricing $3.09/month
(2-year plan)
$2.19/month
(2-year plan)
$6.67/month
(1-year plan)
$2.19/month
(2-year plan)
$2.19/month
(2-year plan)
Money-Back Guarantees 30 days 30 days 30 days 45 days 30 days
Customer Support YES (24/7) YES (24/7) YES (24/7) YES (24/7) YES (24/7)
Get NordVPN Get Surfshark Get ExpressVPN Get CyberGhost VPN Get PIA VPN

Why Do You Need a VPN to Watch ESPN+?

ESPN+ is available in the US only, which means that you need a VPN to unblock the streaming service if you live/travel elsewhere. 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.” 

ESPN-Blackout-Blackout-Message

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

How to Pick the Best ESPN+ VPN?

Your chosen VPN 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.

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.

Blackouts are implemented 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, from a US state where the event you plan to happen is available for streaming live.

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

Even the most reputable VPNs sometimes encounter errors. But don’t worry! We’ve come up with the most helpful techniques for fixing VPN-related issues, so let's take a closer look:

Is It Safe to Use a Free VPN for ESPN Plus?

Even though you'll find some free VPN services for ESPN Plus, most of them aren't safe, and we don't recommend using them. That's because free VPNs are unreliable and can reveal your location

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

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

We recommend using premium VPNs with lightning-fast speeds that are crucial for issue-free streaming. If you wish to play it safe, go for a VPN trial version. For example, you can take advantage of a free trial of NordVPN, available on Android for 7 days. This VPN also offers a 45-day money-back guarantee for other platforms. If you're set on using a free option, you can try Proton VPN.

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 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 a VPN optimized for streaming.

NordVPN provides the most complete set of features in this case. It offers unparalleled unblocking capabilities, next-level safety, blazing-fast speeds, and many US servers, all of which make it stand out from its competitors. It's the best VPN for ESPN+, as it lets you access the platform from anywhere and get an uninterrupted streaming experience with no blackout restrictions.

FAQ

What is the Best VPN for ESPN Plus?

The best VPN for ESPN Plus is NordVPN. It has 6,400+ servers in 111 countries. You will also get impressive streaming speeds and robust security.

Can You Use a VPN with ESPN+?

Yes, you can use a VPN with ESPN+. However, keep in mind that most VPNs don't work with the streaming service, so be careful about which one you decide to buy. We'll remind you that our #1 pick is NordVPN.

Does ESPN Plus Work with a VPN?

Yes, ESPN Plus works with a VPN. Actually, using a VPN for ESPN Plus is the only way you can access the platform if you live or are traveling outside the US. It’s also the best way to bypass ESPN+ blackouts.

Does ESPN Plus Block VPNs?

Yes, ESPN Plus blocks VPN services by trying to detect their IP addresses. So, if you want to unblock ESPN+, you need a VPN with many servers and a sizable pool of IPs, like NordVPN.

How to Bypass an ESPN Plus VPN Block?

You can bypass an ESPN Plus VPN block by choosing a trustworthy VPN with obfuscated servers, installing it on your device, and connecting to a US server. This will give you a new US IP address.

Does NordVPN Work with ESPN+?

Yes, NordVPN works with ESPN+ as it offers a range of US-based servers. It's a privacy-first VPN that's also highly suitable for streaming, and as such, we recommend using NordVPN with ESPN+.

Does ExpressVPN Work with ESPN+?

Yes, ExpressVPN works with ESPN+. It unblocks the streaming service every single time on any device. Plus, it's an incredibly fast VPN, so you can stream in HD with no issues.

That’s all for our guide to choosing a VPN to unleash the full potential of ESPN+. If you have any questions, please leave them in the comments section below. Thanks for reading!



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