Have a tough time watching your favorite US TV shows while you’re abroad? It’s an everyday struggle, as many locations get these shows late or not at all. They might be in a language you don’t understand even when you find them. I understand how frustrating this can be. But what if I told you there’s a solution that can make you capable of watching American TV from anywhere and even discovering new shows right as they come out?
That solution is a VPN. Keep reading to find out how to use a VPN to watch American TV outside the US.
The Best Way to Watch U.S. TV Online from Abroad
Many American TV networks only let people in the U.S. watch their shows, but there’s a trick. You can still watch them from overseas using a VPN. A VPN gives your devices a temporary American IP address. So, even if you’re in Paris, it looks like you’re in New York City.
Why Are International Users Banned from U.S. TV Streams?
Even if you pay for U.S. streaming services, they often block you when you’re abroad. It’s not just to make your life difficult; it’s about money. U.S. TV networks earn big bucks by selling rights to show programs in different countries.
If everyone could watch them anywhere, it wouldn’t be worth it for other countries to buy the rights. There could also be local laws or governments that don’t want their citizens watching outside content.
How Is Content Geographically Blocked?
Even when you’re willing to pay for U.S. streaming services, they can be a pain when you’re abroad. But there’s a good reason for it – money. American TV networks make much cash by selling the rights to show their programs in different countries.
If everyone could watch anything anywhere, other countries would not be incentivized to buy these rights. Plus, local laws or governments sometimes want to control what their citizens watch from the outside world.
How to Watch American TV Abroad Online with a VPN?
Follow the given steps to unblock US channels outside the US with a VPN:
- Sign up for an exclusive VPN; Surfshark is recommended.
- Download and install the VPN app on your streaming device.
- Launch the VPN and sign in using your credentials.
- Connect to a US server; the New York or the New York server is recommended.
- Navigate to the American TV channel you wish to stream.
- Sign up or log in to it and start streaming.
Best VPNs to Watch US TV Abroad
The following 3 are the best VPNs to watch US TV abroad:
Surfshark – Affordable VPN to Watch American TV Outside US
Surfshark VPN offers a bunch of cool features that make it one of the best choices for watching American TV outside the US. Here’s why:
- Surfshark owns over 3,200 servers in 100 countries and over 600 servers in the US.
- Surfshark utilizes a WireGuard tunneling mechanism, assuring the security and enhancement of your browsing and streaming activities.
- Surfshark’s 24-month subscription plan costs around $2.29 monthly with 79% off + 2 free months.
- Surfshark allows infinite logins.
- Surfshark unblocks well-known geo-restricted streaming platforms like Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and Peacock, among others.
- Surfshark’s average download speed on a US VPN server is 250.81 Mbps, and the average upload speed is 139.19 Mbps.
ExpressVPN – Overall Best VPN to Watch American TV Outside US
The features of ExpressVPN that set it apart as one of the best VPNs for watching American TV outside the US are:
- ExpressVPN is the finest VPN for accessing geo-blocked platforms, with 3,000 servers in 105 countries (including 24 locations in the US).
- You can take advantage of a fantastic 35% discount and get ExpressVPN for only $8.32 monthly for a 12-month subscription.
- 24/7 customer support is provided to the users.
- ExpressVPN unblocks streaming sites like Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video.
- You can operate eight connections simultaneously.
- User data is shielded by AES-256 encryption, TrustedServer network, and private DNS.
- With ExpressVPN’s ultra-fast 10-Gbps VPN servers, you can enjoy unrestricted internet access in the US without experiencing any slowdowns.
- 30-day money-back is guaranteed.
NordVPN – Reliable VPN to Watch American TV Outside US
NordVPN stands out as one of the best VPNs for watching American TV shows when you’re outside the U.S. Here’s why:
- NordVPN has a tremendous server web with 6000+ servers in 60 countries, including 16 advanced servers in the US.
- You can buy NordVPN for $3.99 per month + 3 EXTRA months or $107.73 for the first 2 years, with a 62% discount and an opportunity to withdraw within the first 30 days.
- NordVPN protects user data through numerous tunneling protocols.
- You can link up to six devices at a time.
- Firestick, Xbox, Playstation, Nintendo Switch, Raspberry Pi, Chromebook, Chromecast, and Kindle Fire are compatible with NordVPN.
- NordVPN uses AES 256-bit encryption, a strict no-logs policy, extra features like a Kill Switch, established streaming mode, and a friendly user interface are the unique features of the service provider.
- NordVPN easily bypasses famous geo-blocked sites like Hulu, Disney+, and Sling TV.
How We Selected VPNs for American TV?
The following factors are essential for ensuring a satisfying user experience in watching American TV outside the US:
U.S. Servers
The availability of servers in the United States is paramount. Having multiple server options improves connectivity and minimizes the risk of being blocked. Additionally, VPNs offering dedicated IP addresses can provide a more stable connection.
Connection Speed
Exceptional connection speed is vital for streaming American TV in high quality. The fastest VPN providers achieve this by using modern tunneling protocols and extensive server networks.
Device Compatibility
Many prefer watching TV on home entertainment rather than computers or mobile devices. Thus, we prioritized VPNs with dedicated apps for Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, and router support.
Affordability
While VPNs come in various price ranges, unblocking American TV online doesn’t demand the most expensive option. Some budget-friendly VPNs can suffice if you can tolerate a few limitations.
Security Features
While security might not be the primary concern for streaming U.S. TV abroad, it’s still essential. We selected providers offering essential security features like a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and ad blocking.
Privacy Practices
A VPN inherently provides a degree of privacy due to encryption. However, optimal confidentiality is ensured when the provider operates outside the Nine Eyes jurisdiction and upholds a strict no-logs policy. Bonus points were awarded if the provider underwent independent third-party audits.
Customer Support
While unblocking U.S. TV with a VPN is relatively straightforward, having 24/7 customer support is valuable for any necessary consultations or assistance.
Best Streaming Services to Watch US TV Online?
You have various choices if you want to sign up for a streaming service that provides American TV shows. Selecting one that aligns with the specific shows and content you enjoy is smart.
| US TV streaming platform | Starting prices |
|---|---|
| Netflix US | $6.99/month |
| HBO Max | $9.99/month |
| Hulu | $7.99/month |
| Disney Plus | $7.99/month |
| YouTube TV | $72.99/month |
| Amazon Prime Video | $14.99/month |
| ESPN+ | $10.99/month |
How to Watch American TV Overseas with a VPN on Different Devices?
The following guides will help you watch American TV overseas with a VPN on different devices:
How to Watch American TV with a VPN on a PC?
Here’s how you can watch American TV with a VPN on a PC (Windows, Mac, Linux):
- Sign up for a VPN with software made for your computer’s system.
- Download and install the VPN app on your PC.
- Open the VPN, sign in, and connect to a US server.
- Visit the website of your preferred American TV service and start watching.
How to Watch American TV with a VPN on Mobile?
Follow the given easy steps to watch American TV with a VPN on mobile (Android, iOS):
- Subscribe to a mobile-friendly VPN like Surfshark for Android and iOS.
- Look for the official VPN app in your device’s app store.
- Download and install it.
- Open the VPN app, sign in, and connect to a US server.
- Download a US TV streaming app, sign up or sign in, and enjoy exclusive content.
How to Watch US TV with a VPN on Smart TVs?
The following easy steps will help you learn how to watch US TV with a VPN on your Smart TV:
- Get a VPN that works with routers, like Surfshark.
- Set up your home router to connect through US servers using the VPN.
- Connect your smart TV to the router’s network.
- Turn on your TV and watch exclusive US-channels.
American TV Shows to Watch Outside USA
- The Boys
- The Expanse
- Paper Girls
- Reacher
- The Daily Show
- Young Sheldon
- His Dark Materials
- Chopped
- NFL
- The Mandalorian
- Obi-Wan Kenobi
- Moon Knight
- Turning Red
- Bob’s Burgers
- NBA
- Preacher
- Atlanta
- Futurama
- Friends
- Westworld
- The Sopranos
- Euphoria
- MLB
- Stranger Things
- 30 Rock
- Dexter
- Parks and Recreation
FAQs
Is American TV free to watch?
Some American TV channels offer free content, but many require a cable or streaming subscription.
Where can I watch US TV outside the USA?
You can watch US TV outside the USA using a VPN to bypass geo-restrictions.
Is it legal to watch US TV abroad?
It is generally legal to watch US TV abroad, but it depends on the specific content and your country’s laws.
Is a VPN a good idea for digital nomads?
Using a VPN is a good idea for digital nomads as it helps secure internet connections and access geo-restricted content.
Can I use a free VPN to watch US TV?
You can use a free VPN to watch US TV. However, remember that free VPNs may have limitations and are often unreliable for streaming US TV.
Can I watch US TV in UK?
You can watch US TV in the UK using a VPN to bypass geo-restrictions.
Can I watch American television in Europe?
American television can be watched in Europe using a VPN to access geo-restricted content.
Will my streaming service block me from watching outside of the US?
Some streaming services may block access when you’re outside the US, but a VPN can help bypass these restrictions.
Other American TV Channels to Unblock Outside USA
Apart from the famous American TV channels, a VPN can help unblock other channels like ABC, NBC, CBS, and FOX outside the USA.
Conclusion
I hope this article has answered all your queries, and now you won’t have to miss your favorite shows on American TV outside the US.
Remember that with a good VPN on your device, you can say goodbye to those annoying geo-blocks from services like HBO, AMC, Hulu, ESPN, and Netflix US.
