Best VPNs for Kodi in 2023

Unfortunately, not every VPN provider works with Kodi. This detailed guide will outline the best Kodi VPNs so that you can unblock geo-restricted content from anywhere in the world.

Many of us have experienced the frustration of being denied access to content from our favorite streaming providers. One option is to settle for some lesser movie or show. The other is to use a VPN to spoof our location. The best VPNs for Kodi can provide access to otherwise restricted content libraries from around the world. This is particularly useful when trying to watch content from your home country while traveling abroad.  

A virtual private network (VPN) allows users to connect to any server in the VPN provider’s network. In doing so, the user’s IP address effectively becomes that of the VPN server. Furthermore, the traffic flowing between the VPN server and the user’s device is encrypted. This ensures it is unreadable if analyzed by internet service providers (ISPs) who might otherwise throttle Kodi connections to streaming sites. 

We’ll examine individual VPN providers in more detail later. For now, here’s a summary of our top choices.

Best VPNs for Kodi:

1. NordVPN: Our top choice VPN for Kodi. NordVPN works seamlessly with all major streaming platforms and is fast enough to watch videos in 4K. It provides RAM-only servers in 60+ countries and comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Surfshark: Best budget VPN for Kodi. Surfshark is great for streaming and allows unlimited device connections. Its RAM-only servers are available in 100+ countries and its Linux app has a full GUI. Obfuscation enables connections in China.
3. ExpressVPN: Provides Kodi users with effortless access to streaming platforms’ content libraries. Connection speeds are fast, with RAM-only servers available in 105+ countries. It has an app for routers and an Onion site on the Tor network.
4. CyberGhost: Known for its extensive server network and speedy connections, CyberGhost is a good option for use with Kodi. It has RAM-only servers optimized for individual streaming platforms and an audited no-logs policy.
5. PrivateVPN: Able to access all major streaming platforms and a good choice for Kodi users. It has servers in more than 63 countries and a stealth mode that enables connections in China. Port forwarding is permitted.
6. ProtonVPN: Works well with Kodi and has servers in over 69 countries. It provides easy access to a range of streaming platforms and allows port forwarding for efficient torrenting. Its stealth mode is able to bypass Chinese VPN blocks, blazing-fast speeds.   
7. Atlas VPN: Offers fast download speeds and reliable access to a host of streaming platforms. It can rotate users’ IP addresses in-session and create MultiHop connections. Subscriptions include unlimited device connections.

Summary Table

To be included as one of our recommended providers for Kodi, VPNs need to satisfy several requirements beyond just exceptional streaming abilities. These are outlined below and expanded upon later in the article where we discuss our testing methodology in more detail.

• Works with Kodi and all Kodi add-ons across multiple platforms, including Android TV and Amazon Firestick
• Ability to access streaming services
• Vast server network with server locations worldwide 
• Fast connection speeds
• Strong online privacy and security features, helping to provide online anonymity 
• Generous number of simultaneous device connections
• User-friendly apps

In addition to the above, VPNs included as one of our top three providers must also have a RAM-only server network, independently audited software and infrastructure, effective obfuscation, and a location beyond the reach of cross-border spying alliances. 

Best VPNs for Kodi

Now let’s explore each of our recommended providers in a little more detail:

NordVPN is a great option for Kodi as it’s both easy to use and works with a range of popular streaming platforms. It’s fast enough for buffer-free streaming – even while watching a video in 4K.

The company has 6,000+ RAM-only servers spread throughout 60+ countries. Some of these are optimized for different tasks, such as providing MultiHop connections, accessing the Tor network, and obfuscating traffic to enable connections in restrictive countries like China.

NordVPN has its own connection protocol – based on the speedy WireGuard – that doesn’t require user-data to be stored on its servers. Other NordVPN security features include 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, built-in leak protection, and split tunneling. Also, NordVPN's Meshnet private tunnel feature for Windows, macOS, and Linux is now free for everyone, including those users that don't have a subscription.

Apps can be navigated intuitively and are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV, and Linux. These all come with a Threat Protection tool that automatically blocks ads, trackers, and malware. 

NordVPN is compatible with routers. Configuring a connection will protect every device on the router’s network – regardless of whether they support VPN software natively. VPN-incompatible devices can alternatively make use of the company’s SmartPlay tool to access geo-restricted content. 

In 2018, NordVPN suffered a minor attack on a third-party data center in Finland. This prompted it to make its entire server network RAM-only, as well as to begin the process of buying – rather than renting – its servers, and housing them in purpose-built data centers.  

The company has had its no-logs policy independently verified three times – with the most recent audit carried out by Deloitte.

BEST VPN FOR KODI: NordVPN is our recommended provider. It’s very fast and works well with all major streaming platforms. It can provide access to China and hassle-free connections to the Tor network. Plans come with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee. 

Surfshark is a good option for Kodi users who want a relatively low-cost service with the ability to access a wide range of geo-restricted content. It’s particularly good value for those who live in large households. Subscriptions allow users to connect as many devices as they want at the same time.

The service works with 30+ Netflix libraries as well as platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, HBO, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+. It has smart DNS, which enables devices that don’t natively support VPN software – like smart TVs and games consoles – to navigate geo-restrictions. 

The company’s Nexus technology rotates’ users’ IP addresses in-session for additional privacy. It also allows them to choose entry and exit servers for MultiHop connections. Surfshark provides access to static IP addresses, which are useful for those who don’t want their virtual location to change – for example, when hosting game servers. 

Apps are easy for beginners to get to grips with and are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV, and Linux. They all have a full GUI and come with built-in leak protection, 256-bit encryption, split tunneling, and a kill switch. 

Camouflage mode obfuscates traffic so that it can evade VPN blocks in China. The CleanWeb tool blocks ads, trackers, and malware. The company’s browser extensions provide control over which of these elements are in use at any one time. 

In 2022, Surfshark merged with Nord Security – NordVPN’s parent company. Although no longer strictly independent, a Surfshark press release stated that it would continue to operate autonomously. 

GREAT VALUE: Surfshark provides easy access to popular streaming platforms and is fast enough for watching 4K video. It has RAM-only servers in 100+ countries and offers unlimited device connections. Plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

ExpressVPN has provided a consistently secure service during its 10+ years of operation. Features such as its Trusted Server Technology and proprietary Lightway connection protocol show that it remains committed to continuous improvement – and help justify its higher-than-average subscription fees.

ExpressVPN has very fast connection speeds and provides Kodi users with seamless access to numerous Netflix libraries and big-name streaming platforms. The company has RAM-only servers available in 105+ countries and a MediaStreamer smart DNS proxy that helps VPN-incompatible devices access geo-restricted content. 

Apps are available for macOS, iOS, Android, Android TV, Nvidia Shield, Amazon Fire TV, and Linux. The company also makes an app for routers. This allows users to protect every device on their home networks, regardless of whether they natively support VPN software.

Prospective ExpressVPN customers can sign up anonymously via an Onion site on the Tor network. Automatic obfuscation means that users in China – and other similarly restrictive countries – can access censored sites and apps.

Other features include 256-bit encryption, built-in DNS and IP leak protection, a kill switch, split tunneling, and a Threat Manager Tool. 

In 2021, ExpressVPN was bought by Kape Technologies. Prior to becoming a cybersecurity company, Kape – then known as Crossrider – specialized in designing software that injected adverts into users’ browsers. 

At the time of its acquisition, ExpressVPN stated that it would remain a separate service from other Kape brands. It has since had its no-logs policy verified via multiple audits of its software and server network. 

TRUSTED SERVERS: ExpressVPN has RAM-only servers in 105+ countries and provides Kodi users with easy access to the top streaming platforms. An app is available for routers and connection speeds are fast. Plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

CyberGhost is a solid choice for Kodi, providing speeds easily fast enough for watching 4K video, and access to servers optimized for individual streaming platforms. 

The company has 10,000+ RAM-only servers spread across 100+ countries. Some of these are optimized for gaming, torrenting, or streaming. A Smart Rules tool enables users to automatically connect chosen apps to specific servers. Kodi users could, for example, specify that Netflix automatically connects to a Netflix-optimized server when opened. 

The downside is that Smart Rules is only available on Windows. Features shared across all apps – which are also available for macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV, and Apple TV  – include a kill switch; DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leak protection; and 24/7 customer support. 

Split tunneling is only available for Android, though a URL bypass can be set up via Smart Rules on Windows. CyberGhost doesn’t offer access to MultiHop servers or obfuscation. 

For additional security, users can pay for access to the company’s NoSpy servers. These are housed in CyberGhost data centers in Romania and provide even faster speeds, a dedicated uplink and additional bandwidth. 

CyberGhost is owned by Kape Technologies, which – as mentioned in the ExpressVPN mini-review – has a less-than-impressive past. Nevertheless, CyberGhost has continued to uphold its standards, issuing quarterly transparency reports and undergoing independent audits of its server network and management systems.

FAST CONNECTIONS: CyberGhost has RAM-only servers optimized for individual streaming providers and notably fast connection speeds. It has an audited no-logs policy and plans that come with a 45-day money-back guarantee.

PrivateVPN has servers in 63+ countries and works with a range of content libraries from the likes of Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. It’s a great choice for Kodi as it expands the range of streaming options without being overly expensive. 

As its name suggests, the company values privacy. It has a clearly defined no-logs policy, strong encryption, and no ties to other companies. PrivateVPN uses bare metal servers and acts as its own server host and ISP.

Its stealth mode disguises traffic so that it can bypass blocks in countries such as China, Turkey, and the UAE. Other features include access to SOCKS5 and HTTP proxies, app-specific and system-wide kill switches, and built-in leak protection. 

PrivateVPN has P2P-optimized servers that are better able to handle large file transfers. Port forwarding is allowed, which makes it easier to connect to peers when torrenting. 

Customizable apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Amazon Fire TV. Users can vary the level of encryption used on their data and switch connection protocols. Options include OpenVPN with UDP/TCP, L2TP, IPsec, PPTP, and IKEv2. 

PrivateVPN has 24/7 customer support with the addition of remote control support if needed. Subscriptions include up to 10 simultaneous device connections. Although the company is based in a country with excellent privacy laws, it’s worth noting that Sweden is a member of the SIGINT Seniors Europe international intelligence-sharing alliance. 

STEALTH MODE: PrivateVPN is an independent and transparent provider with servers in 63+ countries. It allows port forwarding and can help Kodi users access a range of streaming platforms. Plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee. 

Proton VPN has a good reputation for keeping data private as well as a solid record for streaming. It provides fuss-free connections to the likes of Netflix, BBC iPlayer, ITVX, Peacock, and HBO. 

Connection speeds are good enough for streaming in 4K – thanks in part to the company’s VPN Accelerator technology that uses a modified version of the OpenVPN protocol to route traffic more efficiently. 

Proton VPN has servers in 69+ countries and high-security data centers in Switzerland, Sweden, and Iceland. These are used to route sensitive traffic. Other security features include one-click access to the Tor network, strong encryption and a kill switch. 

Apps are all open-source and available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Android TV, and Linux. They all come with split tunneling, leak protection and strong encryption. Free servers offer unlimited bandwidth, albeit with slower speeds and no streaming support.

Proton VPN has P2P-optimized servers and allows port forwarding, which makes for more efficient seeding and leeching while torrenting. Subscribers are permitted up to ten simultaneous device connections, though a router connection can be configured if more are needed. 

The company has verified its no-logs policy through independent audits of its software and infrastructure. 

STRONG ON PRIVACY: Proton VPN has open-source apps and works well with all major streaming devices and platforms. Apps are all open-source and port forwarding is allowed for improved torrenting. Advanced security features. Subscription plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Atlas VPN provides Kodi users with excellent connection speeds and easy access to the most popular streaming platforms. 

Its streaming-optimized servers work with Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer. The company also has SafeSwap servers, which rotate IP addresses in-session and enable MultiHop connections with randomized exit servers. SafeSwap servers are available in Amsterdam, Singapore, and Los Angeles. 

Atlas VPN subscriptions allow users to connect as many devices as they want simultaneously, making it a good choice for larger households. Apps are available for a range of platforms, including Windows, iOS, Android, macOS, Android TV, and Amazon Fire TV.

These all use the speedy WireGuard protocol by default – though IPSec/IKEv2 is available. Other features include DNS and IPv6 leak protection, a kill switch, split tunneling, a tracker blocker and a data breach monitor. 

While connected, users’ data is protected using ChaCha20 encryption for the WireGuard protocol and 256-AES encryption for IKEv2. 

Atlas VPN’s no-logs policy is sufficient for the majority of Kodi users. However, the fact that it’s based in the US – making it potentially subject to forced logging – might make those handling sensitive data consider alternative options.   

Atlas VPN is owned by Nord Security, having been acquired after just one year of trading. In the interim, the company has increased its server network and had its Windows app independently audited. 

STRONG ON SECURITY: Atlas VPN provides robust security, fast connection speeds, and unlimited device connections. It provides Kodi users with access to a range of major streaming platforms and plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

 

Methodology for choosing the best VPNs for Kodi

There are literally hundreds of VPNs in existence, many of which promise unfettered access to streaming services and top-of-the line security. Unfortunately, relatively few can make good on their promises. To sort the good from the bad – or merely average – we test providers against a specific list of criteria using our testing methodology. 

• Ability to access streaming services: Major streaming services work hard to prevent their subscribers using VPNs to view region-locked content. The result is that only a handful of VPN providers can access services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu. We regularly test which VPN companies work with streaming services.  
• Large server networks: Kodi users who want to maximize their viewing options should look for VPN providers with servers in a range of countries. All of our recommended VPNs have numerous servers in each of the major regions. This makes it easier to find fast, working connections as well as providing alternative options should any servers go offline. 
• Fast connection speeds: There’s little point streamlining your entertainment with Kodi, only to lump yourself with a sluggish VPN. When choosing a VPN provider, make sure that it at least matches your base connection speed. Ideally it should exceed it. We perform regular speed tests to find the fastest available VPNs. We only recommend those that are able to at least stream HD video without buffering. High-speed connections are ideal for 4K streaming, so providers with the fastest speeds get bonus points. 
• Strong security and privacy features: A decent VPN service will prevent your ISP from throttling your bandwidth by using strong encryption to mask your internet traffic. To keep your data safe, it will also have a kill switch, leak protection, and a strict no-logs policy. The best offer access to MultiHop servers, obfuscation, split tunneling, and port forwarding.
• Generous number of simultaneous device connections: If you’re using Kodi, then you likely have several devices running it. We look for VPN providers that allow a decent number of simultaneous connections or are compatible with routers. 
• User-friendly apps: If streaming is your thing, then you’re not going to want to spend time faffing around with VPN settings. We look for providers that enable users to intuitively establish connections that are safe and secure. This requires apps to have a well-thought-out GUI that is consistent across a range of operating systems. 

Bonus points

To make it to one of our top three positions, VPN companies must additionally offer the following features:

• Access to China: The Chinese state has spent more than a decade perfecting its VPN-blocking abilities. Although many try – and claim to succeed – in bypassing these blocks, the truth is that the majority of VPN providers don’t work in the country. Those that do are highly sought-after by anyone living in countries where the internet is heavily censored. 
• Diskless servers: The best VPN services only use RAM-only servers in their networks. Because these run on volatile memory, they are effectively wiped clean of data when powered off or rebooted. This makes them less attractive to hackers or government agencies seeking to collect user data. By comparison, servers using magnetic disk or solid-state drives must be periodically wiped of stored data, which makes them vulnerable between wipes. 
• Incorporation outside the scope of intelligence alliances: Numerous countries have entered into cross-border intelligence-sharing alliances. These enable them to use proxies for conducting mass surveillance of their own citizens that would otherwise be illegal. The Five/ Nine/ Fourteen Eyes are the most well-known, but there are others. To avoid being co-opted, the better VPN providers choose to incorporate their companies in countries that are not members of any known alliances, such as Panama and the British Virgin Islands.
• Audited software and infrastructure: In recent years, there have been several instances of supposedly no-logs VPN providers handing over customer data when asked to do so by law enforcement authorities. To try and reassure suspicious consumers, some VPN companies undertake regular audits of their software and infrastructure. As well as verifying any no-logs claims, these audits identify vulnerabilities that can be addressed before they’re exploited by attackers. 

How to use a VPN with Kodi

It’s easy to use a VPN with Kodi. Just follow these steps to get connected:

1. Choose a VPN with fast speeds and good access to streaming platforms. We recommend NordVPN as a consistently good option.
2. Sign up for a subscription. Longer terms are almost always cheaper.
3. Download and install the relevant app for your device.
4. Restart the device once installation is complete. 
5. Open the newly installed app and choose a server to connect to.  
6. Click the “connect” button.
7. Wait until the app informs you that a connection has been established.
8. Open Kodi and use it as you normally would – but with a secure and private connection.

Can I use a free VPN with Kodi?

We wouldn’t recommend it. Free VPNs won’t work with big-name streaming platforms such as Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. Even if they did, their small server networks would severely limit the number of available content libraries. Because free VPNs also tend to have a poor server-to-user ratio, connections are usually slow – making streaming in HD all but impossible. If you're interested in sports streaming or other live events, excellent speeds are a must to avoid buffering. 

Most free VPNs log user activity, with some selling the information on to third parties. Trackers are common and many ask for unnecessary permissions. The worst of them fail to encrypt traffic and leak users’ IP addresses. IP leaks and DNS leaks are a major privacy risk. 

What is a VPN for Kodi?

A VPN for Kodi is a service that can let you gain freedom of access and privacy on your Kodi media player. Kodi provides access to many third-party add-ons and repositories, which might raise concerns regarding privacy, security, and legal implications.

A Kodi VPN gives you peace of mind by allowing you to use Kodi without fear of being tracked. This isn't an excuse to access copyrighted content, but it does give you the breathing room to explore your system without fear that you could get in trouble for accidentally stumbling on illegal content. 

A VPN works to give you privacy by encrypting your internet connection, ensuring that your online activities, including Kodi streaming, remain confidential. This added layer of security is essential because Internet Service Providers (ISPs) can potentially monitor your Kodi usage.

Another key function of a VPN for Kodi is bypassing geo-restrictions. Many Kodi add-ons and streaming sources impose geographical restrictions, but with a VPN you can watch BBC iPlayer, ESPN, Hulu, Netflix US, or any other service from abroad.

A VPN also helps avoid ISP throttling, which can affect streaming quality. By masking your streaming activities, ISPs are less likely to throttle your connection when you are streaming HD content on Kodi. Not all VPNs are secure enough and fast enough to use with Kodi, but the VPNs in this guide have been chosen specifically because they are compatible.

Remember that you always use a VPN at your own risk, and we strongly recommend sticking to official sources for content - to avoid copyright infringement. Nothing in this guide should be taken as legal advice.

Best VPNs for Kodi – FAQs

Is it illegal to use a VPN with Kodi?

VPNs are legal in all but a few of the most repressive countries. So, unless you live in North Korea, Belarus, Iraq, or Turkmenistan, then you are free to use a VPN with Kodi. However, that’s not to say that you should use a VPN to mask illegal activity. For example, the UK charity, Crimestoppers, says that every time you stream pirated content, “via an unauthorized website, app, add-on, or another illegal source, you are committing a crime”.

Does Kodi have a VPN?

No, the Kodi software does not include a VPN. To use a VPN with Kodi we recommend first subscribing to one of our recommended providers, connecting to the VPN app of choice and then using Kodi as normal. All of our recommended VPNs come with money-back guarantees, so you’re not risking anything financially by taking out a subscription.

Will a VPN slow my connection down?

All VPNs slow your connection down to some extent. This is because VPN connections require traffic to pass through an additional server on its way to and from the internet. For the fastest VPNs, the drop in speed is negligible – you’ll still be able to stream 4K video without buffering and game online without lag. When choosing a VPN provider, be wary of their claims regarding speeds – consult independent reviews before committing to a subscription. 

Which are the best Kodi add-ons for streaming TV shows and movies?

There are a lot of Kodi add-ons, particularly for streaming TV shows and movies. To stay on the right side of the law, it’s wise to avoid those designed to access pirated content. All of the following are safe to use: 

• Tubi TV
• Netflix
• Crackle
• Plex Live
• Disney Plus 
• Hulu
• iPlayer WWW
• Adult Swim