10 Best VPN Services for Watching ESPN+
ESPN Plus applies regional access restrictions that limit streaming to viewers within the United States. To watch live sports, UFC events, original programming, or on-demand ESPN Plus content while traveling abroad, users need a VPN that can reliably bypass these geo-locks without sacrificing performance.
Advances in VPN technology, such as WireGuard, Lightway, and optimized OpenVPN protocols, now deliver faster and more consistent connections for HD and 4K streaming. Choosing the right VPN has become essential to ensure smooth playback, reliable access, and secure browsing. This guide provides an objective, data-based comparison of the top VPNs for ESPN Plus, analyzing streaming capabilities, speed, server networks, privacy protection, and device compatibility.
Our Verdict
After extensive testing, the best VPN for ESPN Plus is ExpressVPN, offering exceptionally fast US servers, reliable access to streams, and advanced protocol technology that consistently bypasses ESPN Plus regional restrictions.
NordVPN and Surfshark follow closely, delivering strong streaming performance, competitive long-term pricing, and robust security features that enhance user privacy on any connection.
Users looking for more budget-driven alternatives may also find solid value in services like CyberGhostVPN, Private Internet Access, or VeePN, which still offer reliable access and stable viewing for ESPN Plus at lower subscription costs.
Our Review Process
To determine the best VPNs for ESPN Plus, the following criteria were evaluated:
- Streaming reliability: Ability to consistently access ESPN Plus and maintain HD/4K playback with minimal buffering.
- Performance: Average download speeds, latency impact, and server congestion levels.
- Server availability: US server locations and capacity to handle peak streaming traffic.
- Security and privacy: Encryption standards, no-logs policy, RAM-only or secure server configurations, and leak protection.
- Pricing and value: Comparing long-term subscription cost, refund guarantees, and bundled features.
- Device support: Compatibility with common streaming devices such as smart TVs, iOS, Android, and streaming sticks.
Quick Overview - Our Top Picks For Watching ESPN+ VPNs
VPN
Features
Pricing
- 3,000+ global servers
- Lightway protocol for faster and more stable connections
- RAM-only servers for enhanced privacy
- Supports major streaming devices including Smart TVs, consoles, and routers
- Double VPN for multi-layer encryption
- Meshnet for secure private device networking
- High-speed NordLynx protocol
- Independently audited no-logs policy
- Unlimited devices
- CleanWeb ad blocker
- RAM-only servers
- MultiHop routing for added anonymity
- Dedicated streaming servers
- 11,000+ servers
- User-friendly interface ideal for beginners
- Extended 45-day money-back guarantee
- Highly customizable encryption and protocol settings
- Fully open-source apps for transparency
- Massive server network to minimize congestion
- Includes advanced settings like split tunneling and port forwarding
- 2,500+ servers in multiple regions
- Built-in ad and malware blocker
- Easy-to-use apps for multiple platforms
- Supports up to 10 simultaneous devices
- Decentralized, peer-to-peer VPN architecture
- No central server logging or control
- Designed to bypass heavy censorship regions
- Open-source project supported by a global node community
- ISO-27001-certified secure data centers
- Secure Core routing for protection against network-level surveillance
- Strong no-logs policy under Swiss privacy laws
- Offers high-speed WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols
- Unlimited device connections per account
- Strong US server presence for reliable ESPN Plus access
- Owns and operates its entire server network
- Includes advanced features like split tunneling and kill switch
- Catapult Hydra protocol for optimized streaming performance
- Strong and consistent speeds on US servers
- Multi-platform support including mobile and smart TVs
- Easy setup with minimal configuration needed
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is built on a privacy-oriented RAM-only server network and powered by the proprietary Lightway protocol, designed to improve speed, session stability, and reconnection performance. Its extensive US server coverage enables consistent access to ESPN Plus from outside the United States, delivering reliable HD and 4K playback with low latency.
Pros
- Lightway protocol delivers excellent streaming speeds.
- RAM-only servers enhance privacy and prevent data retention.
- Highly reliable at unblocking ESPN Plus.
- Broad device support, including routers and smart TVs.
Cons
- Higher price than most VPN competitors.
- Limited simultaneous device connections.
- Some advanced settings require app installation.
- No free version available.
NordVPN
NordVPN combines a high-speed NordLynx protocol with a large US server network to support fast and stable ESPN Plus streaming. Security offerings such as Double VPN, Threat Protection, and verified no-logs audits provide high trust and robust privacy for users who also value anonymity while streaming.
Pros
- NordLynx protocol provides consistently fast streaming.
- Independently audited no-logs policy ensures data privacy.
- Double VPN adds extra security for sensitive browsing.
- Large US server presence maintains steady ESPN Plus access.
Cons
- Interface may feel complex to first-time VPN users.
- Browser-only users don’t get full feature access.
- Some advanced settings require configuration knowledge.
- Certain features limited to app installation.
Surfshark
Surfshark allows unlimited device connections, making it well suited for households and shared accounts. Features such as MultiHop and NoBorders help maintain secure access even in regions with strict network controls. Strong US server availability typically ensures reliable ESPN Plus streaming with minimal buffering.
Pros
- Unlimited simultaneous connections per subscription.
- CleanWeb blocks ads and malicious domains.
- MultiHop enhances anonymity for restrictive networks.
- Affordable pricing with strong feature set.
Cons
- Speed variance may occur on distant servers.
- Some advanced features require manual configuration.
- Occasional network congestion on peak US servers.
- Not all features supported on every device type.
CyberGhostVPN
CyberGhostVPN focuses on ease of use while still delivering strong streaming capabilities through servers optimized specifically for platforms like ESPN Plus. With more than 11,000 servers worldwide, the network typically avoids congestion issues, and the interface works well even for first-time VPN users.
Pros
- Dedicated streaming servers improve ESPN Plus access reliability.
- Massive 11,000+ server network minimizes congestion.
- Very user-friendly setup suitable for beginners.
- Extended 45-day money-back guarantee.
Cons
- Some servers may slow during peak periods.
- Fewer configuration controls for advanced users.
- Privacy policies not independently audited as frequently as some competitors.
- Not as feature-intensive as power-user-focused VPNs.
Private Internet Access (PIA)
Private Internet Access is known for its open-source applications and a massive server network that provides strong flexibility and more granular configuration options than many competitors. Its customizable encryption, protocol options, and advanced features like port forwarding make it appealing to users who prefer fine control over their VPN setup while still gaining reliable access to ESPN Plus.
Pros
- Fully open-source apps allow transparency in development .
- Highly customizable encryption settings.
- Massive server network helps prevent congestion.
- Supports advanced tools such as split tunneling and port forwarding.
Cons
- Based in the United States, a Five Eyes jurisdiction.
- Interface may be overwhelming for beginners.
- Consistent performance requires proper configuration.
- Not all streaming servers are labeled clearly.
VeePN
VeePN provides a straightforward VPN experience with more than 2,500 servers and built-in ad and malware blocking. Its ease of use and support for up to 10 simultaneous connections make it a practical option for users who want simple, reliable ESPN Plus access without advanced setup requirements.
Pros
- 2,500+ servers provide global coverage.
- Built-in ad and malware blocking improves browsing safety.
- Supports up to 10 devices simultaneously.
- Simple, beginner-friendly interface.
Cons
- Smaller network than top-tier competitors.
- Streaming speeds can vary by server load.
- Fewer advanced security tools compared to premium VPNs.
- Privacy policies not audited by third parties.
Mysterium VPN
Mysterium VPN uses a decentralized, peer-to-peer network rather than traditional VPN servers. This approach distributes traffic across independently operated nodes, making it more resistant to censorship and centralized tracking. Its architecture appeals to users who prioritize privacy over convenience, although performance can vary due to its distributed nature.
Pros
- Decentralized privacy model reduces data centralization risks.
- Highly effective for bypassing censorship in restrictive regions.
- Operates as an open-source project for transparency.
- Harder for platforms to block connections due to node diversity.
Cons
- Streaming performance and speeds can be inconsistent.
- Less polished interface compared to mainstream VPNs.
- Requires some technical understanding to optimize.
- Not as stable for continuous long-duration streaming.
ProtonVPN
ProtonVPN emphasizes high-level privacy protections, operating under Swiss jurisdiction with strict no-logs regulations and secure ISO-certified data centers. Secure Core routing enhances protection by sending traffic through hardened servers before exiting globally, helping defend against surveillance and advanced cyber threats while maintaining strong streaming performance for ESPN Plus.
Pros
- Secure Core routing enhances protection against network-level monitoring.
- Strong no-logs policy backed by Swiss privacy laws.
- ISO-certified data centers ensure hardened physical security.
- High-speed WireGuard and OpenVPN support.
Cons
- Higher pricing on top-tier plans.
- Some premium features limited to paid tiers.
- Interface and features may feel advanced for casual users.
- Free plan has restrictions not ideal for streaming.
IPVanish
IPVanish owns and operates its entire server network, improving control over performance and reducing third-party infrastructure risks. Its unlimited device connections make it suitable for households with multiple users who stream ESPN Plus simultaneously. With strong US server coverage, IPVanish generally provides smooth and consistent playback.
Pros
- Unlimited connections on a single plan.
- Strong US server availability for stable ESPN Plus access.
- Owns its entire server infrastructure for improved control.
- Supports features like kill switch and split tunneling.
Cons
- Past logging controversies may concern privacy-focused users.
- Interface feels dated compared to modern VPN designs.
- Advanced settings may be confusing without guidance.
- Some performance fluctuation depending on server load.
Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield relies on its proprietary Catapult Hydra protocol, designed to boost streaming speeds and reduce latency, especially on long-distance connections. Its ease of setup and strong performance make it appealing for users who want fast ESPN Plus access with minimal configuration, although the free version has restrictions not suitable for high-quality streaming.
Pros
- Catapult Hydra protocol delivers strong performance on streaming traffic.
- Reliable US server speeds for HD playback.
- Simple setup process suitable for first-time VPN users.
- Supports a wide range of platforms, including mobile and smart TVs.
Cons
- Free version has ads and limited data allowances.
- Privacy policy is less strict than leading privacy-first VPNs.
- Fewer advanced security features compared to premium services.
- Smaller server network than some competitors.
Benefits of Using a VPN for ESPN Plus
Using a VPN for ESPN Plus offers several important benefits beyond simply gaining access while outside the United States. By redirecting internet traffic through US servers, a VPN allows users to bypass geographic restrictions and stream ESPN Plus and other American platforms from abroad. It can also help reduce ISP throttling, as encrypted traffic prevents providers from identifying and slowing down high-bandwidth streaming activity.
Additionally, a VPN enhances security on public Wi-Fi networks found in places like airports, cafés, and hotels by encrypting data and reducing exposure to cyber risks. Finally, strong encryption standards and verified no-logs policies help protect user privacy by ensuring that viewing activity and browsing history are not stored or monitored.
Conclusion
A high-performance VPN is essential for reliably accessing ESPN Plus, whether traveling internationally or streaming on unsecured networks. ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark offer the best balance of speed, streaming stability, and security, while other options like CyberGhostVPN, PIA, ProtonVPN, IPVanish, and others provide strong alternatives based on budget or feature priorities. By choosing the right VPN, users gain secure access to ESPN Plus with smooth playback and enhanced privacy across all devices.
