Streaming

5 Best VPNs for Hulu That Work in 2024

By Novak Bozovic / March 9, 2024

Hulu is a geo-restricted streaming service available in the US and Japan only. Even though some of its content is available on third-party services worldwide (such as Disney+), the streaming platform itself doesn't work unless you have an American or Japanese IP address. On top of that, many ISPs throttle those who stream a lot of media, which is their way of preserving bandwidth and cutting costs.

That said, there is a way to access Hulu from outside the US. What you need is a VPN that works with Hulu. More precisely, the best VPN for Hulu will help you obtain an American IP and unblock the streaming app. Aside from that, it will help you use Hulu when traveling outside the US/Japan. Also, a VPN will encrypt your data, helping you bypass ISP-induced selective throttling.

In this guide, we'll talk about the 5 best VPNs for Hulu, help you compare different options, show you how to watch Hulu with a VPN, explain why a VPN is needed, explain how to choose the best one, and assist you in case your VPN doesn't work with Hulu. Lastly, we'll finish with a round of helpful FAQs.

Best Hulu VPNs - Our Shortlist

  1. NordVPN – Our #1-Rated Best VPN for Hulu in 2024
  2. Surfshark – Speedy Hulu VPN with Unlimited Connections
  3. ExpressVPN – Privacy-First VPN That Works with Hulu
  4. CyberGhost VPN – Streaming-Friendly VPN With Lots of Servers
  5. PIA – Highly Customizable VPN for Hardcore Streaming Fans

How to Watch Hulu with a VPN

To watch Hulu with a VPN, you need to subscribe to a powerful VPN and connect to its US- or Japan-based servers. Here's what to do:

  1. Subscribe to a VPN that works with Hulu (we recommend NordVPN).
  2. Download and install the VPN app on the device(s) you'll use to watch Hulu.
  3. Launch the app and sign in to your VPN account.
  4. Connect to a server in the US or Japan.
  5. Log in to your Hulu account (it’s best to use Hulu’s website).
  6. Now you can watch any TV show and movie without restrictions!

To make sure Hulu cannot detect your true location, you must always be connected to your VPN before you open the streamer’s app or website. To learn more about unblocking Hulu, check out our article on how to watch Hulu outside the US.

The Best VPNs for Hulu in 2024

Finding the best VPN for Hulu requires you to follow the criteria laid out in our guide on the best VPNs for streaming, with a special focus on the streaming app in question. In other words, your VPN should unblock Hulu with ease from any location. To make that happen, it must offer servers in the US and Japan, but also plenty of servers across the world.

Next, you'll need fast speeds and stable performance. Obfuscation is needed to hide your VPN data and evade anti-VPN systems. A kill switch is also handy, helping you prevent data leaks. Aside from that, look for strong protocols (OpenVPN, WireGuard), solid encryption (AES-256, ChaCha20), and a no-logs policy (an audited one, preferably).

Also, ensure you get enough simultaneous connections to cover all your devices alongside native apps for all your devices. Lastly, you'll want a good price and plenty of value, and you'll want to rely on a generous money-back guarantee to make your investment risk-free. There should also be reliable, 24/7 live chat support in addition to other customer support resources.

Based on the criteria mentioned above, here are the 5 best VPNs for Hulu in 2024:

1. NordVPN – Our #1-Rated Best VPN for Hulu in 2024

Editor's Pick
Servers
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Chrome
Firefox
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Apple TV
Xbox
Amazon Fire TV
Nintendo Switch
All game consoles
Chromecast
Parallel Connections
Live Chat

NordVPN is the best VPN for Hulu in 2024, bringing an endless list of features to make streaming as easy as possible. It unblocks Hulu in an instant, as well as dozens of other streaming apps. You'll find around 2,000 US-based servers, 130+ in Japan, as well as 6,000+ servers in 60+ countries in total.

On top of that, NordVPN is among the fastest VPNs available today - offering extra-fast speeds across nearby and remote servers. It also offers a group of obfuscated servers and a kill switch, so anti-VPN systems and data leaks won't be something to worry about.

Known for its high-end privacy, NordVPN offers military-grade AES-256/ChaCha20 encryption, VPN protocols such as OpenVPN and NordLynx (WireGuard), and an often-audited no-logs policy. You also get private DNS, leak protection, ad-blockers, anti-malware, and more. 

NordVPN supports 6 simultaneous connections and works on computers, phones, tablets, streaming devices, and routers. Its 2-year plan starts at $3.39/month and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Lastly, you'll get to count on 24/7 live chat customer support.

PROS

  • Unblocks Hulu from anywhere. 
  • Extra-fast performance.
  • Highly suitable for streaming.
  • Works on any device.
  • 24/7 live chat support.
  • 30-day money-back guarantee.

CONS

  • Not all servers are obfuscated.

2. Surfshark – Speedy Hulu VPN with Unlimited Connections

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

Surfshark is a great Hulu VPN that brings full support for Hulu and many other streaming platforms. This streaming-friendly VPN offers 600+ servers in the United States, as well as 60+ servers in Japan. On the global level, it has 3,200+ servers in 100 countries, giving you plenty of options to secure and re-route your traffic while being able to unblock any website/digital service.

This VPN has always been known for its performance. Based on our recent tests, it's still on par with the fastest VPNs out there. It also has obfuscation, which you can enable on-demand, as well as a powerful kill switch across all its supported devices.

Surfshark also uses OpenVPN and WireGuard as its protocols, AES-256/ChaCha20 encryption, and features a no-logs policy, leak protection, and many other excellent features. A unique feature is its IP rotation, which helps you avoid even the most persistent digital trackers.

This VPN allows you to connect from an unlimited number of devices simultaneously. It offers apps for any device imaginable and costs $2.29/month for its 2-year plan. Lastly, it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you'll be able to try out its services risk-free. In case of any questions or issues, you'll have Surfshark's 24/7 live chat support.

PROS

  • 600+ Hulu-friendly US servers.
  • Unblocks many streaming apps.
  • Very fast performance.
  • Very easy to use.
  • 24/7 live chat support.
  • 30-day money-back guarantee.

CONS

  • Can take a while to connect.

3. ExpressVPN – Privacy-First VPN That Works with Hulu

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 long-standing and exceedingly reputable VPN that works with Hulu and dozens more streaming apps and sites. It covers 20+ locations in the US, as well as 4 in Japan, while offering 3,000+ servers in 105 countries worldwide, featuring one of the biggest networks out there.

According to our tests, ExpressVPN is among the fastest VPNs available, so you can enjoy buffer-free 4K streaming even if you don't have an ultra-fast baseline connection. Aside from that, all of its servers are obfuscated, and there's a kill switch on all supported platforms.

The provider also offers military-grade AES-256 encryption, protocols like OpenVPN and Lightway, data leak protection, and a no-logs policy. These features ensure that you're safe online and that no one can steal your data or access your online activity.

With ExpressVPN, you get 8 simultaneous connections and apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, and routers. You can get started for $6.67/month (1-year plan), and the VPN will cover your purchase with a 30-day money-back policy. As you can expect, 24/7 live chat support is also available.

PROS

  • Unblocks Hulu every time.
  • Lightning-fast performance.
  • Servers in many US states.
  • 24/7 live chat support.
  • 30-day money-back policy.

CONS

  • Limited customization.

4. CyberGhost VPN – Streaming-Friendly VPN with Lots of 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 an excellent streaming-friendly VPN that offers a large server network and unblocks dozens of streaming apps, including Hulu. If you subscribe, you'll gain access to a whopping 2,000+ servers in the US, 230+ in Japan, and 11,500+ servers in 100 countries.

CyberGhost VPN isn't the fastest VPN out there, but you can expect medium-to-fast Web connection speeds while using this provider. So, we recommend a fast baseline connection. Also, there's no obfuscation, but you do get a powerful kill switch that works in the background.

Let's not forget that you also get OpenVPN and WireGuard, paired with AES-256 and ChaCha20 ciphers, which means that your data will remain perfectly safe and private. There's also an audited no-logs policy and RAM-based servers, eliminating any chance of data logging.

CyberGhost offers 7 simultaneous connections and user-friendly apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, streaming devices, and even routers. It's currently priced at $2.19/month for its 2-year plan, which also has a generous 45-day money-back policy. In terms of customer support, you get 24/7 live chat support, installation guides, and more.

PROS

  • More than 2,000 US servers.
  • Specialized streaming servers.
  • Works with 50+ streaming apps.
  • 45-day money-back guarantee.
  • 24/7 customer support.

CONS

  • Slower than its competitors.
  • No obfuscation.

5. PIA – Highly Customizable VPN for Hardcore Streaming Fans

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 (PIA) is another robust VPN that manages to unblock Hulu every single time, as well as other major US-based streaming services. What's interesting about PIA is that it has servers in all 50 US states, as well as in Japan. It offers thousands of servers in 90+ countries in total.

You can expect medium-fast speeds from PIA. We highly recommend taking your time to optimize this VPN, as it brings a wealth of customization options. You'll find obfuscation here, as well as several types of kill switch, making PIA suitable for more advanced users.

This VPN is based on protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard, paired with AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption ciphers. It also has a court-proven no-logs policy, open-source apps, and more. In terms of privacy protection, few VPNs can match what Private Internet Access offers.

Another plus is PIA's support for unlimited simultaneous connections. It's priced at $2.19/month for its 2-year plan. To prove that it has nothing to hide, it also has a 30-day money-back guarantee. It's also no surprise that 24/7 live chat is on offer, in addition to several other customer support resources.

PROS

  • Servers in all 50 US states.
  • Works with Hulu every time.
  • Plenty of customization. 
  • 24/7 live chat support.
  • 30-day money-back policy.

CONS

  • Requires some VPN knowledge. 
  • Medium-fast performance. 

Best VPNs for Hulu - Compared

NordVPN Surfshark ExpressVPN CyberGhost PIA VPN
Unblocks Hulu YES YES YES YES YES
Server Network Size 6,000+ servers
60+ countries
3,200+ servers
100 countries
3,000+ servers
105 countries
11,500+ servers
100 countries
N/A
90+ countries
VPN Protocols OpenVPN
NordLynx
IKEv2/IPsec
OpenVPN
WireGuard
IKEv2/IPsec
OpenVPN
Lightway
IKEv2/IPsec
OpenVPN
WireGuard
IKEv2/IPsec
OpenVPN
WireGuard
IKEv2/IPsec
No-Logs Policy YES (audited) YES (audited) YES (audited) YES (audited) YES (audited)
Obfuscated Servers YES YES YES NO YES
Kill Switch YES YES YES YES YES
Performance Ultra-fast Fast Ultra-fast Medium Medium
Simultaneous Connections 6 Unlimited 8 7 Unlimited
Supported Devices Windows
macOS
Linux
Android
iOS/iPadOS
Apple TV
Android TV
Fire TV
routers
Windows
macOS
Linux
Android
iOS/iPadOS
Android TV
Fire TV
routers
Windows
macOS
Linux
Android
iOS/iPadOS
Apple TV
Android TV
Fire TV
routers
Windows
macOS
Linux
Android
iOS/iPadOS
Android TV
Fire TV
routers
Windows
macOS
Linux
Android
iOS/iPadOS
Android TV
Fire TV
routers
Customer Support 24/7 live chat 24/7 live chat 24/7 live chat 24/7 live chat 24/7 live chat
Money-Back Guarantees 30 days 30 days 30 days 45 days 30 days
Get NordVPN Get Surfshark Get ExpressVPN Get CyberGhost Get PIA VPN

Why Do You Need a VPN for Hulu?

You need a VPN for Hulu to be able to watch Hulu outside the US, access the platform while traveling, protect yourself from digital tracking, and optimize your Web connection. Here's more info:

How to Choose the Best VPN for Hulu?

To choose the best VPN for Hulu, you need to ensure that it gives you unlimited access to Hulu and other platforms, and you'll also want fast speeds and servers in the US/Japan. Here's what to keep in mind:

Why Does Hulu Block VPNs?

Hulu blocks VPNs due to licensing issues. Like all other streaming services, Hulu provides content from a vast array of distributors who all have their own restrictions. Thus, Hulu must abide by those licensing contracts. 

VPNs allow people from all over the world to access Hulu's content. Thus, Hulu strives to block VPNs in an effort to prevent its content from reaching unlicensed markets

Hulu wants to ensure that only residents of countries that have purchased the required content licenses can access its programming. Most streaming services like Hulu want to expand to other markets to reap all the benefits that might bring, but there won’t be as much demand if people can already access the platform by using a VPN. 

That said, not many VPNs can access Hulu and provide a pleasurable streaming experience, which is why our #1 recommendation is NordVPN. Based on our tests, NordVPN is among the rare VPNs to still offer unrestricted access to Hulu from any device.

How to Fix Hulu VPN Error Code BYA-403-011?

To fix the Hulu VPN error “BYA-403-011,” you need to reboot or reset your router. The “BYA-403-011” error indicates that Hulu has stopped working because it detected that you're using an anonymous proxy tool (a VPN). 

If rebooting or resetting your router doesn't resolve this issue, try disabling your VPN. If the issue is fixed, you'll know that your VPN isn't doing a good job of hiding your location. So, you'll need to find a better VPN

Hulu Not Working with a VPN – How to Fix?

When Hulu doesn't work with a VPN, you need to check if your connection works properly, followed by trying other VPN servers and protocols. Here's everything you can try:

Can I Use a Free VPN for Hulu?

Yes, you can use a free VPN for Hulu, but we don't recommend using them. That's because free VPNs come with all kinds of incredibly strict limitations, making your streaming experience tiresome and not enjoyable at all.

More precisely, free VPNs come with limited server networks, slow speeds, and weak security features. As a result, most can't unblock Hulu. Even if you find a free VPN that works with Hulu, it'll most likely offer limited bandwidth, so you'll get to stream for a limited time only.

Also, free VPNs collect and log your data and can see everything you do online. Then, they sell that data to the highest bidder, which are marketing agencies most of the time. We've also seen free VPNs used as a tool to propagate malware, which has happened many times before.

If you wish to play it safe, go for a VPN free trial. That's how you'll get premium-level features for a limited time without any risk. We recommend NordVPN's free trial, which is a 7-day trial that needs to be activated on Android. You can use your credentials on other devices as well, and there's also a 30-day money-back policy for all its supported platforms.

Once you've gone through a few trials, check our guide to the best VPN providers. You'll find a lot of amazing options there, offering plenty of value for their low price.

Final Thoughts

Hulu is available in the US and Japan only, without any future plans to expand internationally. You'll also face Hulu's geo-blocks while traveling, which will force you to wait until you get back to watch your favorite content. On top of that, selective ISP throttling is an issue around the world. However, a capable Hulu VPN can provide a handy solution to all those issues - all at once!

We recommend NordVPN as the best VPN for Hulu because it is proven to be able to bypass Hulu’s firewalls and VPN-detection technology. It brings servers in 60+ countries in total, ultra-fast speeds, and works on any device. With this impressive VPN, you can watch all the TV shows and movies you’d like from Hulu or any other streaming service.

FAQ

Where Is Hulu Available?

Hulu is available in the US, including Puerto Rico and US military bases. There is also a slightly different version of Hulu available in Japan.

Does Hulu Work with a VPN?

Yes, Hulu works with VPNs, but not all of them. Only a small selection of VPNs can bypass Hulu's geo-restrictions and VPN-detection technology. Our recommendation is NordVPN.

What Is the Best VPN for Hulu?

The best VPN for Hulu is NordVPN, based on our hands-on tests. It can unblock Hulu every single time, offers streaming-friendly speeds, and works on any device. Plus, you can use it to access any other streaming service.

What VPN Works with Hulu?

VPNs such as NordVPN, Surfshark, ExpressVPN, CyberGhost VPN, and PIA all work with Hulu. Out of those, our #1 pick is NordVPN, as it offers the fastest performance and is extremely streaming-friendly.

Does NordVPN Work with Hulu?

Yes, NordVPN does work with Hulu. Based on our recent tests, NordVPN can unblock Hulu without any issues, giving you unrestricted access to its library.

Does ExpressVPN Work with Hulu?

Yes, ExpressVPN works with Hulu. This is a reputable VPN service with an army of US-based servers, all of which seem to unblock Hulu with no issues.

Why Can't You Watch Hulu with VPN?

You can't watch Hulu with a VPN if your VPN isn't powerful enough to bypass Hulu's VPN blocks. Alternatively, the VPN server you’re connected through might be experiencing technical issues, so try connecting to a different one. 

How Does Hulu Know I'm Using a VPN?

Hulu knows that you use a VPN because it can detect VPN IP addresses. So, what you can do is switch to another server, which is how you'll get another IP address. Our guide on how Hulu knows that you use a VPN can provide more information.

How Can You Bypass Hulu VPN Detection?

You can bypass Hulu's VPN detection by using a capable VPN, like NordVPN. You can also try using another VPN protocol or an obfuscated server and check if there are data leaks as well.

Can Hulu Ban You for Using a VPN?

Yes, Hulu can ban you for using a VPN, legally speaking. That's because VPNs are against the streaming service's Terms of Use. However, that won't happen in practice. The worst that can happen is an error message displayed on your screen.

Can I Change Hulu Location with a VPN?

Yes, you can change your Hulu location with a VPN. For example, using a US VPN server will help you change your digital location and unblock Hulu from any country. However, make sure to use a capable VPN with US servers, such as NordVPN.

Can I Sign Up for Hulu Without a US Credit Card?

Yes, you can sign up for Hulu without a US credit card. You can purchase a Hulu gift card from Amazon, which is delivered via email. When signing up for Hulu, redeem your gift card instead of adding a payment method.

That's all for our guide on the best VPN for Hulu in 2024. If you have any questions, feel free to share them via the comments section below. Thanks for reading!



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