If you want to watch the show “This Is Us” on NBC from outside the US, you will need to use a virtual private network (VPN) service, and NordVPN is the one I’d start with. It posted the fastest speeds in my NBC streaming tests, has 2,000+ US servers spread across all 50 states, and its SmartDNS gets NBC onto smart TVs and consoles that can’t run a VPN app.
It can also unblock other platforms such as Hulu, which host NBC content.
Other reliable alternatives for accessing NBC include Surfshark (unlimited devices at a budget price), CyberGhost VPN (streaming-optimized servers, including one labeled for NBC), ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access.
The Best 3 VPNs for NBC
Surfshark
Best for NBC on unlimited devices
- Unlimited connections
- 4K streaming support
- Affordable pricing
NordVPN
Best for streaming NBC abroad
- 2000+ US servers in all 50 states
- Fastest speeds in my tests
- SmartDNS for TVs and consoles
CyberGhost
Best for streaming-tuned servers
- Dedicated NBC streaming server
- 1200+ US servers
- 45-day money-back guarantee
In this guide, I’ll show you how to troubleshoot issues if you have problems connecting to NBC with any VPN. There will also be an instructional guide on setting up a VPN to stream NBC from anywhere.
So, if you want to watch Young Sheldon, The Blacklist, or classics like Law & Order outside the US, you’re in the right place.
5 Best VPNs for Unblocking NBC at a Glance
For those in a rush, here are the five best VPNs for NBC:
- NordVPN – Best Overall With the Fastest Speeds + Servers in All 50 States
- Surfshark – Unlimited Streaming Device Connections + Affordable Price Plans
- CyberGhost VPN – Streaming Dedicated Servers + 45-Day Money-Back Guarantee
- ExpressVPN – Great User Interface + Good for Beginners
- Private Internet Access – Reliable Unblocking Capabilities + Compatible With Multiple Devices
The Best VPNs for NBC
Each VPN reviewed here is capable of meeting your NBC needs.
But to help you make the right decision, the following is how each fared when tested.
NordVPN - Best Overall With the Fastest Speeds + Servers in All 50 States
Top of the list is NordVPN. It won my NBC tests on the two things that decide a streaming VPN, speed and US coverage, and it never once made me hunt for a working server.
This is how the tests panned out when I used NordVPN to watch NBC online.
US Servers
NordVPN has the largest published US server count on this list, with 2,000+ servers spread across all 50 states.
This is excellent for those who want to unblock NBC, as it grants you so many servers to choose from, and it means a viewer in Europe can pick an East Coast exit while someone in Australia takes a West Coast one for the shortest route.
Plus, if you live in a country where NBC is unavailable or your workplace or school blocks it, NordVPN can help you get around those restrictions.
Just connect to a server in the US and watch your favorite shows and movies without any problems.
Unlike CyberGhost, NordVPN doesn’t label any servers for streaming. In practice, it didn’t need to: every US server I tried played NBC on the first attempt.
Connection Speeds
When it comes to streaming 4K content on NBC, NordVPN is the fastest of the five, thanks to its NordLynx protocol and its many US servers. This helps ensure a fast and reliable connection.
In addition, you don’t have to worry about your data getting throttled by your internet service provider.
NordVPN actually posted the fastest speeds during the NBC live stream tests.
It averaged about 27Mbps of my 30Mbps line, a small margin ahead of Surfshark and a full 7Mbps ahead of CyberGhost. I could comfortably watch a whole episode of The Endgame without pause. I experimented with several US servers for good measure – the streaming quality wasn’t affected one bit.
Device Compatibility
NordVPN is also compatible with various streaming devices.
As long as you have a device that can be used to stream, chances are NordVPN has a compatible app ready for use.
Furthermore, NordVPN’s device compatibility extends beyond streaming devices.
It also works with routers, gaming consoles, and smart TVs directly via the SmartDNS feature. Another worthy addition is that you can connect up to 10 devices with NordVPN, the same as ExpressVPN and PIA and three more than CyberGhost.
With this, you can access NBC simultaneously from different devices – a handy feature if you’re hosting an NBC binge-watching marathon with your friends.
Unblocking Platforms That Host NBC
NordVPN can unblock other primary streaming services that host NBC content, and you don’t need any cable subscription for these platforms either.
For example, you can use NordVPN to unblock Hulu, Sling TV, and fuboTV, all of which offer NBC content.
In addition to these primary streaming services, NordVPN can also unblock several other standalone but restricted platforms like HBO Max and Amazon Prime.
This makes NordVPN a good value for money.
Price Plans
US dollars · checked Oct 22
Original pricing screenshot
Offers shown in this screenshot may differ from the current deal.
NordVPN isn’t as cheap as Surfshark and CyberGhost, but it’s still within the affordable range of users looking for a reliable VPN for unblocking NBC. You get a 30-day money-back guarantee that gives you a risk-free chance to cancel.
You can further get NordVPN using these cheap discounts. Catching Sunday Night Football from abroad all season? Our NordVPN promotions page compares the long and short plans before kickoff.
Pros
- Fastest speeds in my NBC tests
- 2,000+ US servers across all 50 states
- SmartDNS for smart TVs and consoles
- It can unblock Hulu, SlingTV, and others
- Ten simultaneous connections
Cons
- No streaming-labeled servers like CyberGhost
- Pricier than Surfshark and CyberGhost
Surfshark - Unlimited Streaming Device Connections + Affordable Price Plans
Surfshark is best known for offering unlimited simultaneous connections, which only PIA matches on this list. This feature should excite anyone who wants to watch live programming. The VPN also met all the NBC needs, and this is how it fared.
US Servers
Surfshark has 600+ US servers that are distributed across America.
This was lower than NordVPN and CyberGhost, though ExpressVPN and PIA don’t publish a server count to compare against. Finding a server that can unblock NBC from anywhere around the globe is easy, and the performance will be amazing due to less server crowding.
Connection Speeds
Surfshark managed to hit higher speeds than CyberGhost, ExpressVPN, and PIA.
Only NordVPN posted higher, by a small margin too, and that gap (plus NordVPN’s far larger US network) is all that stops Surfshark from leapfrogging NordVPN here.
Therefore, whether you’re watching your favorite show or keeping up with the news, you can do so without any buffering or lag.
I tried watching This Is Us with a random US server during the tests, and it was smooth to the end. I experienced a sad episode with 4K tears streaming, literally, with the highest clarity (someone eventually dies, but I won’t say who).
Device Compatibility
Surfshark is one of the few VPN providers that offer true compatibility with many streaming devices. You can use Surfshark to watch NBC on Windows, macOS, and Linux. Smart TVs like Samsung, LG, Sony, and Vizio also work fine.
Others include Roku, Apple TV, Chromecast, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, iOS, and Android.
Plus, as mentioned, Surfshark has unlimited simultaneous connections.
This is an excellent feature if you have friends and family streaming NBC on multiple devices at the same time.
Unblocking Platforms That Host NBC
If you’re looking to access NBC content outside the US using other major streaming sites, Surfshark is an excellent option. It can unblock platforms that host NBC, such as Hulu, Sling TV, and Paramount+.
Just remember, you need an active subscription for these platforms to watch your favorite NBC shows.
Price Plans
US dollars · checked Oct 13
Original pricing screenshot
Offers shown in this screenshot may differ from the current deal.
Surfshark is one of the cheapest VPNs around. When you purchase it using these fantastic discounts, you’ll get the best value. For NBC on a Samsung TV, a laptop and a phone at once, our page of current Surfshark coupon codes lists what we verified.
Additionally, Surfshark offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. This gives you some room to wiggle if it doesn’t meet your NBC needs.
Pros
- Fast speeds for HD streaming
- Unlimited simultaneous device connections
- Compatible with multiple devices
- It can unblock SlingTV and others
- One of the cheapest VPNs
Cons
- Lacks streaming dedicated servers
- Slower than NordVPN, with far fewer US servers
CyberGhost VPN - Streaming Dedicated Servers + 45-Day Money-Back Guarantee
CyberGhost VPN is the one to look at if you like your VPN to do the thinking for you. It’s one of the most popular VPN clients around, and its server list has a shortcut most rivals lack: a category built for unblocking and streaming, with an entry labeled for NBC.
This is how it performed.
US Servers
CyberGhost offers 1,272+ servers in the United States, the second-highest in this round-up behind NordVPN. This gives users more options to connect to a server that can bypass geo-restrictions.
Another standout feature is its streaming dedicated servers; not many VPNs offer this. They’re designed specifically for providing optimal performance when streaming video content. This results in faster speeds and fewer buffering issues.
For the test, I used a server dedicated to NBC to stream an episode of The Blacklist using the highest format from the NBC website. I didn’t experience any buffering.
Connection Speeds
When streaming content from NBC, you want a VPN with fast connection speeds. CyberGhost was up to the challenge. The 1200+ servers in the US are partly responsible for this outstanding performance. That’s plenty of servers to choose from for a fast and reliable connection.
This is especially important if you’re trying to stream HD content.
A slow connection can lead to buffering and choppy playback.
With my base internet speeds of 30Mbps, CyberGhost averaged about 20Mbps. That’s the slowest of my top three, a full 7Mbps behind NordVPN and a touch slower than Surfshark and ExpressVPN, and it’s the main reason CyberGhost doesn’t lead this list. Still, it handled streaming very well.
I also tried switching to several other servers, and the playback was smooth.
So, if you want to catch up on The Blacklist or stream live sports without interruptions, CyberGhost has the speed and reliability you need.
Device Compatibility
CyberGhost is compatible with Amazon Fire TV, Android, Apple TV, Chromecast, iPad, iPhone, Mac, PlayStation, the official NBC Roku channel, Samsung Smart TV, Windows 10, and Xbox One.
This wide range of compatibility gives users the freedom to choose which device they want to use to stream NBC.
CyberGhost also allows up to 7 simultaneous device connections.
That’s the fewest of the five now that NordVPN allows 10, ExpressVPN allows 10 to 14, and Surfshark and PIA have no limit, but it’s still enough for most households.
So, a person who has an Amazon Fire TV and an Xbox One can use both devices for watching NBC. This still leaves them with five more slots, which comes in handy if you have friends or family who need to unblock NBC on different devices.
Unblocking Platforms That Host NBC
NBC has a strong presence on many popular streaming platforms.
For example, you can find NBC content on Hulu, Sling TV, and fuboTV.
This is beneficial to users looking to access NBC outside the US, as it gives them more options to watch their favorite shows.
Likewise, CyberGhost can help you access other streaming platforms like BBC iPlayer, Netflix, and Amazon Prime Video.
Price Plans
US dollars · checked Oct 23
Original pricing screenshot
Offers shown in this screenshot may differ from the current deal.
CyberGhost is fairly priced. You also get a 45-day money-back guarantee, the longest on this list. You can even get it at a lower price by taking advantage of these great discounts.
Pros
- Fast speeds for streaming
- Streaming dedicated servers, including one for NBC
- Compatible with multiple streaming devices
- It can unblock other streaming platforms
- 45-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- Slower than NordVPN and Surfshark
- Fewest simultaneous connections on this list
ExpressVPN - Great User Interface + Good for Beginners
ExpressVPN is another popular premium VPN service that you can use to watch NBC Live abroad. Here’s a breakdown of how it performed.
US Servers
If you’re looking for a VPN to unblock any NBC channel from outside the US, ExpressVPN is a great option. It doesn’t publish a server count, but it now lists locations in all 50 US states.
You can’t compare that against NordVPN (2,000+ servers), CyberGhost (1,200+), and Surfshark (600+) without a number, but I didn’t run into any problems that you’d expect with limited servers.
Connection Speeds
It also brings incredible speeds. ExpressVPN outperformed CyberGhost and Private Internet Access and finished within a whisker of Surfshark, with only NordVPN clearly ahead.
Another unique feature of these servers is how well distributed they are.
Simply tap on the United States from the server list and choose any state to trick NBC into thinking you’re streaming from the US.
Streaming live shows was also smooth without any buffering. So for those who want to watch live sports, ExpressVPN packs the juice to give you the most up-to-date viewing as the action unfolds.
Device Compatibility
ExpressVPN is compatible with a wide range of devices, so you can still access NBC when you’re away from home.
Furthermore, you can also use ExpressVPN on up to 10 devices simultaneously on its Basic plan.
That matches NordVPN and beats CyberGhost’s seven, and ExpressVPN’s pricier plans allow 12 or 14, so there’s room for friends or family.
Unblocking Platforms That Host NBC
Another valuable feature of ExpressVPN is its ability to unblock other streaming platforms that host NBC content. This, when combined with the high device compatibility, grants you the flexibility to switch to any platform that offers you the least access issues.
For example, you can watch your favorite NBC shows and movies on Sling TV, Peacock, and fubo TV.
Additionally, ExpressVPN can unblock other standalone streaming platforms, like Hulu and Netflix. This is ideal for people who love keeping tabs on all the popular shows across all platforms without paying for another VPN subscription.
Price Plans
US dollars · checked Oct 23
Original pricing screenshot
Offers shown in this screenshot may differ from the current deal.
Unfortunately, ExpressVPN costs more than Surfshark, CyberGhost, and PIA, which may deter budget shoppers. However, the good news is you can get it at discounted prices and save that extra buck for popcorn.
Pros
- Fast speeds for streaming
- Great User Interface
- Compatible with multiple streaming devices
- It can unblock fuboTV and others
Cons
- Lacks streaming dedicated servers
- Doesn’t publish its US server count
- It’s expensive
Private Internet Access - Reliable Unblocking Capabilities + Compatible With Multiple Devices
Wrapping up the 5 best VPNs for NBC is Private Internet Access.
This lightweight VPN works with multiple devices and, like NordVPN, now has locations in all 50 US states. This is how it performed in all the tests.
US Servers
As one of the leading VPN providers, Private Internet Access offers its users a variety of features and benefits. PIA no longer publishes a US server count, but it covers every US state, so you’re never short of a nearby exit.
That coverage is more than sufficient to unblock the streaming platform from outside the US.
Connection Speeds
PIA recorded stellar speeds that could match NBC’s streaming needs in the speed tests. It had the slowest speeds in this list, but that didn’t affect NBC’s streaming quality or performance.
I streamed several episodes of New Amsterdam in HD without any loading times.
Device Compatibility
When it comes to streaming devices, Private Internet Access is compatible with a wide range of them. This includes Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Android TV, YouTube TV, Chromecast, and Roku.
So whether you’re looking to watch NBC on a big or small screen, you can do so without any issues.
Unblocking Platforms That Host NBC
Other streaming platforms that host NBC content that can be unblocked by Private Internet Access include Hulu and Sling TV. So, you don’t need to switch to NBC if you have a Sling TV or Hulu subscription.
Price Plans
US dollars · checked Oct 23
Original pricing screenshot
Offers shown in this screenshot may differ from the current deal.
Private Internet Access is affordable. It costs less than ExpressVPN and even undercuts Surfshark. You get a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Furthermore, you can take advantage of these fantastic offers to get it for less.
Pros
- Fast speeds for streaming
- Has streaming dedicated servers
- Compatible with multiple streaming devices
- It can unblock Peacock and others
Cons
- The slowest speeds on this list
- No published US server count
Choosing a VPN for NBC: Factors to Consider
When it comes to choosing a VPN that unblocks NBC, there are several factors you need to consider:
- The Number of US Servers: The more US servers your VPN has, the greater the chance of successfully unblocking NBC.
- Connection Speeds: Closely tied to the number of servers are the connection speeds. When dealing with streaming services like NBC, you need to watch everything in the highest quality possible without any pauses. Therefore, a VPN with fast connection speeds is essential for streaming video. You don’t want to be stuck watching buffering icons instead.
- Device Compatibility: It’s also essential to check device compatibility. Some VPNs only work with certain devices, so you’ll need to ensure that the one you’re considering is compatible with yours.
- Ability to Unblock Platforms That Host NBC: Not all VPNs can unblock every platform. You should check whether the VPN can unblock other platforms that host NBC content, such as the NBC Sports app, SlingTV, and Hulu.
- Price Plans: Some VPNs are more expensive than others. Choose one that fits your budget and has the other features you’re looking for. If you don’t want to spend a lot, consider something like Surfshark.
How to Watch NBC With a VPN? (Without Cable)
We’ve talked about the best VPNs for unblocking NBC, but how do you get that working from outside the US? Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it with NordVPN.
- Download and install NordVPN on your device. You can get it for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, or Fire TV Stick.
- Launch the App. Select a server from the US in the server list.
- Connect to the server by clicking on it. Clicking the United States entry itself lets NordVPN pick the fastest US server for you.
- Once the connection is established, open your browser and go to any platform that hosts NBC content, something like Hulu.
That’s it! You can now watch all your favorite shows on NBC.
VPN Not Working With NBC? Troubleshooting Guide
If you’re trying to use a VPN with NBC and it’s not working, you can try a few things.
- Try connecting to a different server. Sometimes a specific server may be having issues with the periodic IP address switching.
- Make sure your VPN is configured correctly. Check your settings and double-check that everything is entered correctly.
- Check to see if there are any updates for your VPN or your operating system. Outdated software can sometimes cause problems.
- Try connecting to a different Wi-Fi network if you’re using a mobile device. Sometimes public Wi-Fi can block VPNs.
- Restart your device and try again. Sometimes a simple restart can fix the problem.
- If you’re still having trouble with your VPN connection, contact your VPN’s customer support. They may be able to help you troubleshoot the issue via their Live Chat.
Streaming Platforms That Offer NBC Content
I’ve mentioned streaming platforms that host NBC content. But here is a quick breakdown of the most popular ones alongside their monthly charges.
| PLATFORM | PRICING |
|---|---|
| SlingTV | $35/month |
| fuboTV | $33/month |
| Hulu + Live TV | $69.99/month |
| AT&T TV | $69.99/month |
| YouTube TV | $64.99/month |
| DirectTV Stream | $69.99/month |
Most aren’t cheap. However, on top of getting all NBC content, you also get unrestricted access to the native content provided by the hosting service.
How to Watch NBC Without a TV License?
You don’t need a TV license or cable TV to watch NBC TV networks in and outside the US.
The following are some ways you can pull this off:
- If you have an over-the-air antenna, you can receive NBC for free. Just connect the antenna to your TV and tune in to the channel. If you live in an area with a strong signal, you can get NBC without any problems.
- If you don’t have an antenna, you can sign up for a streaming service that offers NBC. A few options are available, and each has its own set of benefits. Sling TV, for example, offers a 7-day free trial so you can try it out before you commit to anything.
- If you want to watch NBC content on your mobile device on major streaming platforms, there are a few apps you can use. The NBC app is available for iOS and Android devices on the App Store and Google Play Store. It lets you watch live TV and full episodes of your favorite shows. You can also use the NBC Sports app to watch live sporting events.
Can You Sign Up for NBC Sports Live Outside the US?
Unfortunately, you can’t sign up for NBC Sports Live outside the US. The service is only available to those located within the country. This is most likely due to licensing agreements that NBC has in place with the various sports leagues and organizations.
So if you’re trying to catch your favorite American sports team from abroad, you’ll need a VPN and an active subscription to a platform that streams live sports like SlingTV.
FAQ
Does NBC Allow VPNs?
NBC doesn’t explicitly state if it allows VPNs for watching NBC abroad.
However, NBC is known to block access from users using proxy servers to watch NBC outside America.
Proxy servers function similarly to VPNs in that they allow users to mask their IP address and location. So, it stands to reason that NBC also blocks access from users using VPNs.
However, the only way to know for sure is to try using a VPN and see if it works.
Can I Use a Free VPN to Watch NBC?
We recommend a paid VPN service for the best NBC experience.
Free VPN providers typically have lower speeds and data limits, affecting your streaming quality.
Additionally, free VPNs may not work with all versions of the NBC app.
If you’re looking for a reliable Virtual Private Network to watch NBC, try NordVPN.
What Shows Are Popular on NBC?
The most popular show on NBC is The Blacklist. It’s followed by Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Chicago Fire, Chicago P.D., and Blindspot.
Other popular shows on NBC include comedies like The Office and Parks and Recreation and reality TV staples like The Voice and America’s Got Talent.
Can You Use a VPN to Watch NBC Sports?
Yes, you can use a VPN to watch NBC Sports. To do so, connect to a server in the US.
This allows you to bypass any geographic restrictions and access the content you want.
Just make sure to choose a reputable VPN service with fast speeds and robust security features to ensure a smooth streaming experience.
Will ExpressVPN Unblock NBC?
Yes, ExpressVPN will unblock NBC. With ExpressVPN, you can stream all your favorite shows and movies on NBC from anywhere. All you need is a stable internet connection and a device that supports the ExpressVPN app.
Can I Watch NBC on Roku?
Yes, you can watch NBC on Roku. You can add the NBC channel to your Roku device or stream NBC content through the NBC app. Both options allow you to watch NBC programming on your Roku device.
How to Watch NBC on Firestick?
You can watch NBC on Firestick by using the NBC app. To find the NBC app, go to the Amazon App Store and search for “NBC.” Once you find the app, install it on your Firestick.
After the installation is complete, launch the app and sign in with your TV provider account. Once signed in, you can watch NBC on your Firestick.
Conclusion
So, which VPN are you going with? Each of these five options can get you where you need as far as NBC is concerned. But NordVPN is my top recommendation.
It was the fastest in my tests, its 2,000+ US servers cover every state, and SmartDNS puts NBC on the living-room TV. That combination is too strong to ignore.
However, the choice rests squarely on you. Measure all the features and find what fits you the best. You can get great discounts on NordVPN by clicking here.
