NordVPN is the best VPN for Kodi. Its NordLynx protocol kept my 4K streams buffer-free, its servers unblock geo-restricted Kodi add-ons like BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Netflix, and its P2P servers and Threat Protection cover the torrent-based add-ons most Kodi users end up installing.
If not NordVPN, try Surfshark for unlimited simultaneous connections at a lower price, ExpressVPN for the fastest speeds in my tests, CyberGhost for its optimized streaming servers, and IPVanish for Kodi on Amazon Fire Stick.
Kodi users can also utilize these VPNs to keep their Kodi streaming activity private and avoid bandwidth throttling by ISPs.
Top 3 VPNs for Kodi
Surfshark
Best for Kodi households
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- CleanWeb blocks add-on malware
- Servers in 100 countries
NordVPN
Best for Kodi streaming
- Buffer-free NordLynx speeds
- Unblocks major Kodi add-ons
- P2P servers and Threat Protection
ExpressVPN
Best for raw speed
- Fastest Lightway speeds
- MediaStreamer SmartDNS
- P2P add-on support
Kodi, an excellent media player, proposes one user interface for various streaming services. Users could, however, run into geo-restricted content and Kodi add-ons, especially when traveling overseas.
Here, a VPN is what you need to stream restricted NBA, MLB, and NFL games or watch content on Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and other services via Kodi.
Get Geo-Restricted Video Content or Kodi Add-Ons With These VPNs
Here are the most exciting offerings of my top five Kodi VPNs, in case you’re short on time:
- NordVPN: Best Overall Kodi VPN With Fast NordLynx Speeds
- Surfshark: Best-Value Kodi VPN With Unlimited Connections
- ExpressVPN: Blazing-Fast Speeds for 4K Kodi Streaming
- CyberGhost: Buffer-Free Kodi Streaming via Streaming Servers
- IPVanish: Safe Kodi Streaming on Unlimited Devices
I’ve tested, reviewed and compared these providers below, using a 100 Mbps connection to measure the average speed of these VPN services.
Detailed Reviews and Comparisons of My Top VPNs for Kodi
I constructed this list after comparing 21+ VPN services based on their compatibility with Kodi-supported devices, unblocking capabilities, security features, P2P support, and other features ideal for Kodi.
NordVPN - Best Overall Kodi VPN With Fast NordLynx Speeds
| Location | Server Network | Average Speed | Simultaneous Connections | P2P Support | Best Deal |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Panama | 8400+ in 167+ countries | 92 Mbps | 10 | Yes | Show Offer |
NordVPN is my top Kodi pick, and the detail that sold me is that it works from inside Kodi itself, not just alongside it. Add NordLynx speed, add-on unblocking, leak-free security, torrent support, and a fair price, and you have the most complete Kodi package I’ve reviewed.
During my tests, I averaged 92 Mbps over its proprietary NordLynx protocol while streaming NBA on Kodi via the Sling TV add-on. That’s only a few Mbps behind ExpressVPN and far more than a 4K stream needs, so I never once saw a buffering wheel.
NordVPN also works from inside Kodi itself. It publishes OpenVPN configuration files for every server, so on a LibreELEC or Raspberry Pi box you can load them into Kodi’s VPN Manager add-on and switch servers without ever leaving the Kodi interface. On everything else, the regular app does the job.
Its massive catalog of 8,400+ servers in 167+ countries seamlessly unblocks Kodi add-ons and streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and PlutoTV. I connected to a London server and watched “Doctor Who” through Kodi’s iPlayer add-on on the first try.
Third-party Kodi add-ons are notorious for bundling adware and malware, which is where NordVPN’s Threat Protection comes in. It blocks malicious domains and trackers on every plan, and the Pro version (on the Plus plan and up) also scans downloads for malware and keeps working even when you’re not connected to a VPN server.
For privacy, you get AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and Double VPN servers that route your traffic through two servers if you want an extra layer while streaming over public Wi-Fi. Just note that Double VPN trades some speed for the second hop, so I keep it off for 4K sessions.
Torrent-based add-ons like Elementum and Quasar need NordVPN’s P2P specialty servers rather than any random server. The app picks the fastest one for you, so this is a one-click detour rather than a chore.
That said, NordVPN has user-friendly apps for every Kodi-supported platform, including Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, Android TV, and Amazon Fire TV Stick, plus SmartDNS for smart TVs and consoles that can’t run a VPN app. You can connect ten Kodi-enabled devices simultaneously on a single subscription.
Best of all, its long-term plans cost noticeably less than ExpressVPN’s. Grab these limited-time NordVPN discounts backed by a 30-day money-back policy to test it for Kodi.
Pros
- 8,400+ servers in 167+ countries to unblock geo-restricted Kodi content
- Buffer-free 4K streaming via the NordLynx protocol
- Threat Protection blocks the malware and adware bundled with third-party Kodi add-ons
- AES 256-bit encryption with Double VPN servers and a kill switch for private Kodi streaming
- P2P specialty servers to securely use torrenting Kodi add-ons
- Ten simultaneous connections and cheaper long-term plans than ExpressVPN
Cons
- Double VPN servers trade some speed for the extra hop
- Torrent add-ons need the P2P specialty servers rather than any server
Surfshark - Best-Value Kodi VPN With Unlimited Connections
| Location | Server Network | Average Speed | Simultaneous Connections | P2P Support | Best Deal |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Netherlands | 4500+ in 100 countries | 88 Mbps | Unlimited | Yes | Show Offer |
If you’ve been searching for an exceptional Kodi VPN that won’t break the bank, Surfshark is for you. It’s one of the cheapest premium options on this list, and it gives up surprisingly little to earn that price.
The most significant Surfshark selling point is its unlimited simultaneous connections. One subscription covers the Fire Stick in the living room, the laptop, every phone in the house, and the Raspberry Pi running LibreELEC, which is exactly how most Kodi households end up looking.
Surfshark uses the WireGuard protocol instead of an in-house option. Still, it averaged 88 Mbps in my tests, ensuring I could stream Kodi-available content in 4K without buffering.
Furthermore, it offers an impressive library of 4,500+ servers in 100 countries to access most Kodi add-ons and streaming sites like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer. You can also unblock Kodi add-ons for music, documentaries, and live sports.
Since the content you find on Kodi add-ons like Covenant, Exodus Redux, and The Crew can contain some malware, Surfshark’s CleanWeb becomes a must-have. This feature is included in your basic subscription and protects me against adware, intrusive trackers, or other malware types.
Every Surfshark server allows P2P traffic, so torrent-based add-ons work on whichever server you’re already connected to, and the kill switch keeps your real IP hidden if the connection drops mid-stream.
Even better, it’s available on Mac, Windows, Linux, iOS, Android, Android TV, and Fire Stick, with a SmartDNS option for devices that can’t run the app.
Interested already? Grab this limited-time offer to get the best value on Surfshark and an additional 30-day money-back guarantee.
Pros
- Unlimited simultaneous connections to cover every Kodi device in the house
- 4,500+ servers in 100 countries to unblock Kodi content anywhere
- CleanWeb blocks the malware and adware hidden in third-party Kodi add-ons
- P2P traffic allowed on every server to torrent via Kodi add-ons
- One of the most affordable premium Kodi VPNs
Cons
- No in-house protocol like NordVPN and ExpressVPN
- A few Mbps slower than NordVPN and ExpressVPN in my tests
ExpressVPN - Blazing-Fast Speeds for 4K Kodi Streaming
| Location | Server Network | Average Speed | Simultaneous Connections | P2P Support | Best Deal |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| British Virgin Islands | 3000+ in 113 countries | 97 Mbps | 10 | Yes | Show Offer |
ExpressVPN is the fastest Kodi VPN I tested, and if raw speed is the only thing you care about, it’s worth the extra money.
I averaged 97 Mbps with its Lightway protocol while streaming NBA on Kodi via the Sling TV add-on. Thus, ensuring the most negligible speed drop for buffer-free content.
Unblocking Kodi content like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and more globally is straightforward with ExpressVPN’s server network in 113 countries. I connected to a UK server during my tests to catch up on “Doctor Who” with Kodi’s BBC iPlayer add-on.
Furthermore, ExpressVPN uses AES 256-bit encryption to ensure anonymity and privacy, especially when streaming Kodi content over unsecured/public Wi-Fi networks. Thankfully, I suffered no data leaks on testing this encryption using the Wireshark tool across several ExpressVPN servers.
ExpressVPN also has a unique SmartDNS unblocker called MediaStreamer that I use to access Kodi content on my Xbox One. This SmartDNS service also works on smart TVs and other Kodi-streaming units that can’t download a VPN app.
On top of that, ExpressVPN’s servers support P2P traffic to safely torrent via Kodi’s P2P-based add-ons like Quasar and Popcorn Time.
Finally, ExpressVPN features intuitive apps for almost all Kodi-supported devices, including Android, iOS, Mac, Windows, and Fire TV stick, and its Basic plan now covers ten simultaneous connections.
Its price is another matter. ExpressVPN charges more than any other VPN on this list, and the 5 Mbps it had over NordVPN’s 92 Mbps is nothing a 4K Kodi stream can use, while NordVPN throws in Threat Protection and asks less for its long plans. If the fastest possible Kodi setup matters more to you than the subscription, though, ExpressVPN earns its asking price.
Fortunately, I have these exclusive discounts to save some bucks and try the VPN risk-free via its 30-day money-back guarantee.
Pros
- Servers in 113 countries to unblock geo-restricted Kodi add-ons
- Lightway protocol delivered the fastest speeds in my tests for buffer-less 4K Kodi streams
- Unbreakable 256-bit encryption prevents data leaks and ISP throttling
- MediaStreamer SmartDNS brings Kodi content to consoles and smart TVs
- All servers accommodate P2P traffic to securely torrent on Kodi
Cons
- The costliest Kodi VPN on this list
- No specialty streaming or P2P server categories like NordVPN and CyberGhost offer
CyberGhost - Buffer-Free Kodi Streaming via Streaming Servers
| Location | Server Network | Average Speed | Simultaneous Connections | P2P Support | Best Deal |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Romania | 9000+ in 91 countries | 86 Mbps | 7 | Yes | Show Offer |
CyberGhost categorizes its servers based on the task. Thus, you can quickly find servers best for streaming specific platforms or downloading torrent files. So, you get dedicated servers enhanced for Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and other streaming giants present on Kodi.
The VPN’s enormous 9000+ servers in 91 countries ensure you don’t suffer server overcrowding when streaming Kodi content anywhere.
I tested this by connecting to random servers to unblock different shows, and none ever failed.
Unlike ExpressVPN and NordVPN, CyberGhost doesn’t offer a proprietary protocol. Nevertheless, the WireGuard protocol delivered an impressive 86 Mbps, enough to get concurrent 4K streams across multiple devices.
If you’re worried about data privacy when streaming on public networks, CyberGhost has an intuitive automatic Wi-Fi protection feature.
In my experience, this service seamlessly connected me to a preferred server once my device connected to an untrusted network.
Lest I forget, CyberGhost has a P2P-optimized server section that I often use to stream torrents safely with Kodi’s Elementum add-on. You can also connect to these servers to stream via other Kodi torrent add-ons.
Furthermore, CyberGhost offers Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android apps, like the others, to seamlessly unblock content on Kodi-supported platforms. It also provides SmartDNS and router support (like ExpressVPN and NordVPN) to access restricted Kodi content on devices that can’t download a VPN (like smart TVs and gaming consoles).
On top of that, it allows seven simultaneous connections while staying cheaper than ExpressVPN.
Claim this steal deal to save more and enjoy CyberGhost’s 45-day money-back guarantee.
Pros
- 9000+ servers in 91 countries to beat media-streaming geo-restrictions on Kodi
- Streaming & torrent-optimized servers for enhanced streaming and privacy
- 86 Mbps speeds for ultra-fast 4K content unblocking on Kodi
- 45-day money-back guarantee to test the Kodi VPN service risk-free
- Intuitive automatic public Wi-Fi protection service for extra streaming privacy
Cons
- Not as fast as NordVPN or ExpressVPN
- Doesn’t feature a proprietary protocol like NordVPN or ExpressVPN
- Fewer simultaneous connections than NordVPN and Surfshark
IPVanish - Safe Kodi Streaming on Unlimited Devices
| Location | Server Network | Average Speed | Simultaneous Connections | P2P Support | Best Deal |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sweden | 2000+ in 75 locations | 85 Mbps | Unlimited | Yes | Show Offer |
IPVanish delivered consistent speeds in my tests using the WireGuard protocol, averaging 85 Mbps across a few servers I used to unblock different titles on Kodi.
Speaking of, it has 2000+ servers in 75 countries to unblock geo-blocked add-ons and video content on Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer via Kodi.
If you’re a sports fan, you can also enjoy 4K streaming via the Fox Sports (or other preferred) Kodi add-ons when connected to IPVanish, even outside the US!
Your Kodi connections over IPVanish stay invisible to online snoops, your ISPs, and hackers, thanks to its AES 256-bit encryption. Its VPN kill switch was also effective during my tests, ensuring zero IP/DNS leaks to the streaming platforms I’m unblocking, even if the IPVanish server connection randomly drops.
Unlike NordVPN, all IPVanish servers can accommodate P2P traffic, making them compatible with Kodi’s major torrent-based add-ons. They’ll even keep your Kodi-torrenting activity hidden from copyright trolls, the government, and your ISP!
What’s more, IPVanish has apps for Android, Amazon Fire TV stick, iOS, Windows, Mac, and Linux. And like Surfshark, it doesn’t restrict simultaneous connections, ensuring you can enjoy safe Kodi streaming on all your devices.
However, it lacks SmartDNS support (like the other VPNs), making it less suitable for bypassing Kodi restrictions on smart TVs and gaming consoles. Unless you’ll defer to the router option, that is.
Here’s an IPVanish deal to get the VPN at the best price and test it over a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Pros
- 2000+ servers in 75 countries to access all Kodi add-ons
- Keeps ISP bandwidth throttling at bay with 256-bit encryption on ultra-fast servers
- Most Kodi torrenting add-ons are compatible with all of its servers
- Infinite concurrent connections to serve all your devices
Cons
- No SmartDNS support to get around Kodi’s limitations on smart TVs and gaming consoles
- Least server count
How to Use a VPN With Kodi? (Step-By-Step Guide)
Regardless of your device, setting up a VPN with Kodi is easier than you think.
Here’s how.
NordVPN’s own walkthrough covers the basics in under two minutes:
On Windows/MacOS
Follow these instructions to stream Kodi using a PC running Windows or MacOS:
- Download and install the NordVPN app for your PC.
- Launch the app and log in with your NordVPN credentials.
- Pick a country from the list, or hit “Quick Connect” to let the app choose the fastest server. It’s best to choose a server in a location where the content you want to unblock is available (e.g., a UK server for BBC iPlayer).
- Open Kodi on your device and select your preferred streaming add-on. I’ll use BBC iPlayer for this example.
- Enjoy watching your favorite TV shows on Kodi.
On Android/iOS
If you stream Kodi on your smartphone, follow these steps to unblock content anywhere:
- Download the NordVPN app from the Google Play store or Apple App store.
- Open the app and log in using your credentials.
- If you’re using Android, approve connection requests. For iOS users, permit the app to add VPN configurations.
- Connect to a preferred server location. I recommend a server in a region where you want to unblock content (e.g., Tokyo – Japan server for Japanese Netflix).
- Open the Kodi app and enjoy seamless anonymous content unblocking.
Amazon Fire TV Stick/Android TV
Want to unblock Kodi content on your Amazon Fire TV stick or any Android TV? Follow these instructions:
- Search for the NordVPN app in your Android TV or Amazon app store.
- Download the app, launch it, and log in with your credentials.
- Connect to a suitable server.
- Launch Kodi and enjoy seamless streaming.
If your Fire Stick gives you trouble, my NordVPN Fire Stick guide walks through the sideloading route as well.
On Gaming Consoles (Xbox)
If you enjoy watching TV shows and movies on Kodi using your Xbox 360 or Xbox One, you can connect a VPN via:
- A Windows PC’s VPN-enabled hotspot.
- A router connection.
- SmartDNS
The router route is the most permanent fix, since every device on your network (the Xbox included) goes through the VPN automatically. I’ve covered the whole process, including which routers support it, in my NordVPN router guide.
You can also try the SmartDNS setup approach, which NordVPN includes with every plan (see my NordVPN SmartDNS guide for the exact settings):
Finally, you can also explore the PC Hotspot option discussed below:
- Launch the NordVPN app on your Windows PC and connect to a suitable server.
- Connect your Xbox console to your Windows PC via an ethernet cable or Wi-Fi.
- Open the Control Panel on your PC. Go to View network status and tasks > Network and Internet.
- Right-click on your VPN connection and select “Properties.”
- Switch to the “Sharing” tab and permit “Allow other network users to connect through the computer’s internet connection.”
- Select the Xbox’s ethernet/Wi-Fi connection from the “Home networking connection” dropdown. Thus, your PC becomes a virtual router.
- To complete the VPN configuration, go to the Network section of your Xbox settings and choose “Test Network connection.”
Once it’s finished, open the Kodi program on your Xbox to stream geo-restricted content.
Why Is My VPN Not Working With Kodi? (Troubleshooting Tips)
Are you having trouble with your Kodi-VPN connection? Here are some troubleshooting tips to help:
- Check your connection: Ensure your internet speeds are consistent enough for the VPN to function. I recommend that you run a speed test after restarting your router.
- Switch server locations: If your preferred server isn’t working, switch to other servers till you find a functional option. Note that this won’t be an issue if you choose a reliable VPN, like NordVPN, to start with.
- Check your date and time settings: Ensure that your device’s date and time are correct, as some VPNs (and even Kodi, sometimes) won’t work otherwise.
- Disable your firewall: Sometimes, the VPN connection may get blocked by a firewall. Therefore, briefly turn off your device’s firewall to resolve VPN issues. If that works, add the VPN to your firewall’s exclusion list, and turn it back on.
- Change VPN protocol: Kodi often works best with the WireGuard protocol or alternatives like NordLynx and Lightway. However, you can also try IKEv2 to see if it solves the issue.
- Do a clean reinstall of your VPN: You can also log out and back into your VPN to solve any cache issues.
- Contact customer support: Contact the VPN team if the solutions don’t resolve the Kodi VPN connection issue. Luckily, my top recommendation for Kodi (NordVPN) offers a 24/7 live chat service.
FAQs
Is It Legal to Use a VPN With Kodi?
Using a VPN with Kodi is legal to unblock geo-restricted Kodi add-ons safely. However, some streaming add-ons may oppose VPN usage in their terms of service. Therefore, ensure to read the add-on guidelines before activating your VPN.
Can I Use a Free VPN With Kodi?
Free VPNs aren’t suitable for Kodi since they provide limited bandwidth and slow speeds that aren’t adequate for video streaming. Plus, most free VPNs don’t have apps for Amazon Fire TV Stick or other Kodi-compatible devices, limiting your streaming options.
Get the Most Out of Kodi With a VPN!
Combining a VPN with Kodi unblocks endless streaming possibilities, ensures public Wi-Fi streaming security, and keeps bandwidth throttling at bay.
That said, get yourself a fast, secure VPN service like NordVPN to unblock geo-blocked streaming services and Kodi add-ons without buffering, and to keep the shadier add-ons from doing any damage. You can use these HUGE discounts to try NordVPN risk-free for 30 days.
