Sling TV is home to movies, TV shows, authoritative news, and live sports channels, but it’s only available in the US. You’ll need a VPN to access the platform if you live outside America, and NordVPN is the best VPN for Sling TV.
NordVPN has 2000+ US servers for unblocking SlingTV from anywhere.
Its streaming speeds are among the best, thanks to the NordLynx protocol, offers SmartDNS support, and you can connect up to 6 devices simultaneously.
Other capable alternatives include CyberGhost (streaming-dedicated servers), PureVPN (best for streaming live sports), ExpressVPN (fastest streaming speeds), and Surfshark (best for people on a budget).
So, if you’re a non-US resident and you’re just itching to watch movies, shows, and live sports on Sling TV, stay with me to the end to find out more.
Top 3 VPNs for Sling TV (December, 2024)
CyberGhost offers streaming-dedicated servers alongside 1300+ US servers. There’s a kill switch and public Wi-Fi protection to stream SlingTV safely anywhere. Likewise, it’s fast enough for 4K streaming and works with all streaming devices.
NordVPN has the largest US server network, with over 2000. It’s fast enough for 4K streaming, all thanks to the NordLynx protocol. There’s a kill switch, AES-256-bit encryption, and public Wi-Fi protection for extra security. It also offers SmartDNS and is compatible with all streaming devices.
PureVPN has a reliable, Secure Wi-Fi feature for public networks, a kill switch for IP leaks, and encryption for reliable SlingTV unblocking. It’s fast enough to access 4K content and works on all SlingTV-supported streaming devices, including smart TVs.
The concept of restricting streaming platforms like Sling TV doesn’t come from sentiments of superiority. It all boils down to licensing issues.
This is why most streaming platforms start with specific areas, expanding slowly over time as the licenses are approved. The same applies to Sling TV.
At the moment, it’s only available in the US, but so was Peacock TV, Netflix, and Amazon Prime once.
Additionally, Sling TV has a three-device limit, which is why a VPN with more simultaneous device connections will serve you even better.
So, sit back and relax as I take you through the steps of unblocking Sling TV outside the US.
Here’s a Quick Rundown of the 5 VPNs to Stream Sling TV Without Restrictions
The 2022-2023 NBA season just kicked off, and if you’re a fan like me, you can catch all the action on Sling TV with these five fantastic VPNs.
- NordVPN – Best Overall With the Largest US Server Network
- CyberGhost – Streaming-Optimized Servers for Sling TV
- PureVPN – Best for Streaming Live Sports on Sling TV
- ExpressVPN – Fastest Streaming Speeds With Reliable Obfuscation
- Surfshark – Affordable Sling TV VPN + Unlimited Device Connections
For all the speed tests, I used internet speeds of 30 Mbps, which is enough to stream 4K content. Stay with me to see how each VPN measured up to this when streaming Sling TV.
The Best VPNs for Unblocking & Streaming Sling TV
You don’t need to be a VPN expert to unblock a restricted streaming platform like Sling TV, as the process is pretty straightforward. Here’s how each VPN performed.
NordVPN - Best Overall With the Largest US Server Network
| Location | US Servers | Connections | Average Speeds | Best Deal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Panama | 2100+ | Six | 27 Mbps | Show Offer |
Unblocking SlingTV
NordVPN has 2,100+ US servers, by my last count.
That’s the largest US server haul on this list, followed by PureVPN. With these many servers, unblocking Sling TV without worrying about overcrowding is easy.
I used a New York server to unblock Sling TV within seconds on my Macbook. The only area NordVPN could improve on is adding dedicated streaming servers, like CyberGhost. Not that what it has is lacking, but the convenience of knowing which servers are best suited for streaming without having to try them out one by one is a good thing.
I had no problem unblocking Sling TV on Android, iOS, and Windows.
So, you can stream the platform on your preferred, compatible streaming devices. More on that in a little bit.
Streaming Speeds
NordVPN registered average speeds of 27 Mbps, and it handled 4K content with ease. I streamed The Northman in clear 4K, and not once did I experience buffering.
One of NordVPN’s little-known secrets behind its impressive speeds is the NordLynx protocol, a fairly new addition to its arsenal.
It offers the best speeds and security, killing two birds with one stone.
So, ensure you have it selected from the settings. Luckily, it’s available across all platforms.
Plus, the vast US server network also plays a role since users are well distributed across the servers. Thus, the chances of overcrowding are minimal.
Furthermore, you don’t have to worry about your ISP throttling your speeds when they notice heavy bandwidth use. It won’t even know what you’re up to, let alone pinpoint your location, thanks to NordVPN’s encryption.
Privacy From Surveillance
First, you get the standard AES 256-bit encryption which handles all types of external interferences. This includes preventing your ISP from keeping tabs on what you’re up to. Next up are the hackers who may lurk around public networks, meaning you can safely stream your movies on SlingTV using public Wi-Fi whenever you like.
Finally, the encryption also protects you from Sling TV itself.
The service may detect your VPN use if it’s hellbent, but you can easily beat that with a simple server switch. Always stay a step ahead.
Another vital tool is the kill switch (two on Windows) that disconnects your internet whenever your VPN connection is interrupted.
Such connection drops can happen when you switch from mobile data to Wi-Fi, due to a power blackout or accidentally turn off the VPN.
Until that VPN connection is restored, your actual IP address won’t leak.
Device Compatibility + SmartDNS
If you love watching your shows on the large screen, NordVPN offers SmartDNS (ideal for TVs that don’t run on Android).
With this, you can stream Sling TV directly from your TV screen.
However, the setup may be a little complicated for the average user.
Additionally, this feature prioritizes speed over security since there is no encryption. But the speeds hit the sweet spot, so it’s worth it.
Considering Sling TV is available for Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows, you can install the respective NordVPN app on any of these devices to stream conveniently from anywhere, even when traveling.
Simultaneous Connections
Furthermore, NordVPN allows up to 6 device connections.
So, if you have friends and family members who may also want to stream Sling TV, get one NordVPN account to save more and cater to everyone.
However, six device connections are underwhelming, considering that Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections.
On the price front, NordVPN is neither cheap nor too expensive.
It falls in between Surfshark and ExpressVPN. The best bit is the 30-day money-back guarantee plus these unbeatable discount offers you can take advantage of before they run out.
Pros
- Largest US server network
- 27 Mbps for flawless 4K streaming
- Compatible with streaming devices like smartphones, tablets, Android TVs, and PCs
- SmartDNS support for smart TVs and Xbox consoles
- Reliable kill switch + encryption
Cons
- Only six simultaneous connections
CyberGhost - Streaming Dedicated Servers for Sling TV
| Location | US Servers | Connections | Average Speeds | Best Deal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Romania | 1300+ | Seven | 26 Mbps | Show Offer |
Unblocking SlingTV
CyberGhost has the third largest US server with 1300+.
Like NordVPN and PureVPN, unblocking Sling TV from anywhere on CyberGhost is easy, with minimal chances of landing on an overcrowded server.
Unlike NordVPN, however, CyberGhost offers streaming-dedicated servers, most of which are in the US. But that’s not all; the VPN provider has been gracious enough to create servers optimized for specific streaming platforms, including Sling TV.
I connected to a Los Angeles server optimized for Sling TV, and it only took me less than 10 seconds to open the streaming platform.
Plus, you can also try servers dedicated to other platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, or HBO Max to get SlingTV content.
The aim is to get the best-performing server, so do everything you can to achieve that.
Better still, these streaming servers are available on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. Overall, I particularly loved the easy-to-navigate streaming server arrangement on Android.
Streaming Speeds
I got average speeds of 26 Mbps with CyberGhost, the slowest on this list.
This handled 4K streaming when I tested it with Atlanta.
However, the speed result was a little unexpected, considering the lengths the VPN provider has gone to in creating servers for particular platforms.
But again, VPN speeds are never constant and depend on many factors.
The long distance between my actual location and my chosen server could have affected the speed results. You’ll probably get something different if you use a server closer to your physical location.
CyberGhost’s best protocol when you need good connection speeds is WireGuard, but a suitable alternative is IKEv2.
For those streaming Sling TV on Android with CyberGhost, you only get WireGuard. Windows and macOS users have WireGuard and IKEv2, with the latter favoring speed over security.
Another tip to boost speeds is the split tunneling feature.
This allows you only to route Sling TV traffic through the VPN, easing the encryption burden and boosting overall performance.
Privacy From Surveillance
CyberGhost offers a kill switch that immediately disconnects your internet when the VPN connection drops. This is for the sole purpose of maintaining your anonymity by preventing IP leaks. The feature is available across all platforms, and so is encryption, which takes care of all external threats and interferences.
In addition, CyberGhost has a dedicated public Wi-Fi protection feature that’s perfect for those who regularly use public networks to stream Sling TV.
Hackers won’t be able to snoop around your traffic because breaching AES-256-bit encryption is close to impossible.
But I couldn’t help but notice how different CyberGhost for macOS is from the rest. It’s like night and day when compared with the Windows version.
For example, you can’t find the kill switch button or split tunneling in macOS.
I got in touch with the CyberGhost support team to clear this up, and they said the kill switch is automatically activated on macOS/iOS.
So, the need for an activation button isn’t necessary.
Device Compatibility + SmartDNS
CyberGhost has native apps for Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows.
So, you can stream Sling TV on any device with a screen from anywhere, even when traveling. Furthermore, the VPN has a SmartDNS feature for smart TVs that don’t run on Android or any other OS that supports direct VPN installation.
The SmartDNS doesn’t have encryption, so you’ll be exposed when using it.
The upside is that the speeds you get via SmartDNS are out of this world.
Simultaneous Connections
You can connect up to 7 devices simultaneously with a single CyberGhost account, which is ideal for a large household looking for a secure way to stream Sling TV outside the US. This is more than what NordVPN and ExpressVPN offer but still less than Surfshark and PureVPN.
CyberGhost is also well within the affordable range of the average streaming enthusiast. Plus, It’s the only VPN that offers a 45-day money-back guarantee; the longest by far.
You can also save a lump sum by taking advantage of these exclusive discounts. Hurry before they run out, though.
Pros
- 1300+ US servers
- 26 Mbps for 4K streaming
- Compatible with streaming devices like smartphones, PCs, Android TVs, and tablets
- Reliable kill switch + encryption + Public Wi-Fi protection
- SmartDNS for smart TVs without support for VPN apps
Cons
- Slowest streaming speeds
- Only seven simultaneous connections
PureVPN - Best for Streaming Live Sports on Sling TV
| Location | US Servers | Connections | Average Speeds | Best Deal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BVI | 1800+ | 10 | 27 Mbps | Show Offer |
Unblocking SlingTV
PureVPN is the only alternative besides CyberGhost that offers streaming dedicated servers, giving it an edge over ExpressVPN and Surfshark.
It also provides 1800+ US servers, so unblocking Sling TV was a walk in the park.
Finding the servers wasn’t hard either, and the VPN has done more than enough to ensure the apps are almost the same on Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows. Thus, you can switch between streaming devices and not face a new learning curve every time.
The 1800+ US servers are equally good news for people who hate buffering since there are enough servers to go around without a need for overcrowding.
You can always switch to a new one when you feel like the movie or TV show takes too long to load.
Streaming Speeds
For the speed tests, I streamed an episode of One Punch Man, the anime (I was surprised to see it on Sling TV). PureVPN registered average speeds of 27 Mbps; the third fastest alongside NordVPN.
Thus, 4K streaming wasn’t a problem at all, and I had to forcefully stop myself from blowing through the OPM season because it was getting too enjoyable. That happens when a VPN is fast.
Besides the streaming servers, PureVPN has two fast protocols; IKEv2 and WireGuard. You can select either and use the closest US server you can find.
There’s also a practical split tunneling feature to improve overall performance by only encrypting Sling TV traffic. But this feature isn’t available on all devices; for instance, it’s available on Android but not on macOS.
Privacy From Surveillance
PureVPN has a reliable kill switch that shuts down the internet when the VPN connection drops. This is maintained until the connection is re-established.
Annoying as this may be, it’s an important safety measure that maintains your anonymity.
Its industry-standard encryption keeps your ISP out of your business; it won’t throttle your speeds or keep track of your online activities.
The encryption is also handy in keeping Sling TV in the dark about your VPN usage or actual location.
Working hand-in-hand with the encryption is PureVPN’s Secure Wi-Fi which gives you peace of mind when you stream your shows using public networks.
So, next time you’re in a cafe or a mall and have time to spare, stream anything you want on Sling TV without worries.
Device Compatibility + SmartDNS
PureVPN doesn’t offer SmartDNS. So, consider the other SmartDNS-supporting VPNs to stream Sling TV on a smart TV/Xbox screen that doesn’t offer VPN support. The good news is that the VPN provider has native Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows apps. That allows you to stream your shows on the move with a stable internet connection.
Simultaneous Connections
PureVPN allows up to 10 simultaneous device connections, second after Surfshark. This gives large groups of people more options for unblocking Sling TV on multiple devices.
Just find a way to work around the three device slots mandated by Sling if you’re more than three users on one account. This would work for someone like me who’s always up all night . Others can use the slots during the day.
This VPN is also one of the cheapest options on this list, alongside Surfshark.
Get better value for your money by taking advantage of the 31-day money-back guarantee plus our exclusive discounts. So grab your subscription now before they run out.
Pros
- 1800+ US servers
- 27 Mbps for 4K streaming without buffering
- Compatible with streaming devices like smartphones, Android TVs, PCs, and tablets
- Reliable kill switch + encryption + Secure Wi-Fi protection
- Affordable price plans
Cons
- Slower than ExpressVPN
- Only ten simultaneous connections
- No SmartDNS
ExpressVPN - Fastest Streaming Speeds With Reliable Obfuscation
| Location | US Servers | Connections | Average Test Speeds | Best Deal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BVI | 25+ | 5 | 29 Mbps | Show Offer |
Unblocking SlingTV
ExpressVPN has the smallest global server network on this list, with 3000+.
Out of this, only 25 are based in the US. Compared to NordVPN, PureVPN and CyberGhost, this is underwhelming.
But don’t let looks fool you because this was the fastest VPN during the tests, and I didn’t experience any issue unblocking Sling TV with the few available US servers.
So, how does ExpressVPN still manage to be among the best despite this? Magic?
What ExpressVPN lacks in quantity, it compensates with quality.
The push for quality starts with ExpressVPN’s automatic obfuscation, the only VPN I know that offers this. This keeps your VPN use under wraps, even from DPIs by Sling TV.
While obfuscation from other VPNs only works with OpenVPN and slows down speeds, ExpressVPN’s solution works with all servers and protocols, and the speeds aren’t affected.
Streaming Speeds
ExpressVPN registered average speeds of 29 Mbps, the fastest by a mile compared to CyberGhost. There’s nothing this provider could handle on Sling TV. In fact, I streamed an entire episode of the Candyman from start to finish in 4K and didn’t experience any buffering.
So what’s the secret?
First, the VPN provider is constantly upgrading its servers, boosting overall speeds to handle the needs of an ever-increasing clientele.
Second is the Lightway UDP protocol which rivals NordLynx.
It offers the best speeds and security, ensuring you can stream anything without worrying about speed throttling.
So, before you press play on whatever device you’re streaming Sling TV, ensure you have Lightway UDP selected.
Privacy From Surveillance
ExpressVPN has military-grade encryption that keeps your streaming activities private, whether using public networks, secured Wi-Fi, or mobile data. External parties like hackers, ISPs, or even Sling TV itself won’t see any parts of your traffic, which would include your actual IP address.
Furthermore, ExpressVPN’s Network Lock kill switch disconnects your internet anytime the VPN connection is compromised.
This closes the small window of vulnerability where your actual IP address may leak out to the wrong people.
Device Compatibility + SmartDNS
ExpressVPN has a notable SmartDNS feature called Mediastreamer to smoothly stream movies, shows, live sports, and news on Sling TV directly from any smart TV or Xbox X/S gaming console that doesn’t support native VPN apps.
There’s no encryption involved, so the speeds are very high and make for an enjoyable viewing experience.
If the SmartDNS route is too complicated for you, ExpressVPN has native Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows apps.
This increases the convenience of watching what you want from the nearest device.
Simultaneous Connections
ExpressVPN allows only five simultaneous device connections, the lowest on this list. But this works fine for single users with few devices at their disposal.
It’s also capable of unblocking streams on all three allowed Sling TV simultaneous connections, so you’re covered there.
The price tag is a little steep, though, and it could be out of the affordable range of most users. Fortunately, we have amazing deals to save a tidy sum in the long run.
Pros
- Unblocks Sling TV anywhere
- 29 Mbps for buffer-free 4K streaming
- Compatible with streaming devices like smartphones, tablets, PCs, and Android TVs
- SmartDNS for VPN-incompatible smart TVs
- Reliable kill switch + encryption
Cons
- Expensive
- Only five simultaneous connections
- Only 25 US servers
Surfshark - Affordable Sling TV VPN + Unlimited Device Connections
| Location | US Servers | Connections | Average Speeds | Best Deal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Netherlands | 600+ | Unlimited | 28 Mbps | Show Offer |
Unblocking SlingTV
Surfshark offers 600+ US servers for unblocking Sling TV from anywhere.
This puts it fourth on the list by US server count after NordVPN, PureVPN, and Cyberghost, edging out ExpressVPN.
With 600+ servers, unblocking Sling TV was easier than ExpressVPN since the chances of landing on a crowded server are minimal.
However, there are no dedicated streaming servers, but that doesn’t affect this VPN’s Sling TV-unblocking ability.
Streaming Speeds
Using a US – Houston server and streaming Tacoma PD, I averaged speeds of 28 Mbps, coming second only to ExpressVPN. There wasn’t any buffering when streaming the show in 4K on my Windows PC, Macbook, or Android phone.
There are two things Surfshark is doing right regarding connection speeds.
First is the upgrading of its servers worldwide. Currently, the slowest Surfshark server offers a minimum of 1 Gbps, with a majority of them being scaled up to 10 Gbps. Secondly, Surfshark makes use of the WireGuard and IKEv2 protocols. So, ensure you have either of those two activated before you start streaming anything on Sling TV.
You can also use Surfshark’s split tunneling feature, called Bypasser, to only encrypt Sling TV traffic and push the streaming speeds up a little.
Privacy From Surveillance
Starting with Android users, Surfshark offers two kill switches.
Both ensure your actual IP address isn’t leaked when the VPN connection drops while you’re in the middle of streaming. The interruption may be annoying, but Sling TV suddenly realizing you’re streaming from outside the US may lead to your account getting banned.
You get a single kill switch for iOS, Windows, and macOS users.
There’s also military-grade encryption that stops speed throttling from your ISP, ISP snooping to know what you’re doing, or any interference from hackers. This encryption extends to keeping you safe on unsecured public networks.
Device Compatibility + SmartDNS
You can use Surfshark’s SmartDNS feature to stream SlingTV movies, TV shows, news, and live sports directly on any smart TV/Xbox gaming console that isn’t compatible with VPN apps. Like all the other options, the setup process is a little challenging, but you get terrific streaming speeds without the restrictive burden of encryption.
Surfshark is also compatible with Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS, giving you the convenience of streaming Sling TV from your preferred devices anywhere.
Simultaneous Connections
Surfshark is the only VPN on this list that allows unlimited simultaneous device connections through the same account. You can share it with as many friends and family, each streaming Sling TV in private on their own devices.
The VPN is also one of the cheapest options alongside PureVPN and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. The best bit is the amazing discounts we have on offer at the moment. If Surfshark meets your needs, grab that subscription before the offer runs out.
Pros
- 600+ US servers
- 28 Mbps for smooth 4K streaming
- Compatible with streaming devices like PCs, smartphones, tablets, and Android TVs
- Reliable kill switch + encryption
- SmartDNS for VPN-incompatible VPNs
- Affordable + Unlimited device connections
Cons
- No streaming dedicated servers
How to Unblock and Stream Sling TV With a VPN?
You can unblock Sling TV with NordVPN using the following steps.
- Download and install NordVPN.
- Launch the VPN and connect to a US server.
- Open Sling TV and start streaming.
Sling TV Not Working With VPN? Troubleshooting Guide
I couldn’t unblock Sling TV on my first attempt with Surfshark VPN, but this doesn’t mean the VPN doesn’t work with the platform. If something similar happens when you try streaming Sling TV, try the following tips.
- Change servers: VPN servers don’t work the same way; some are more efficient than others. If you can’t unblock Sling TV, switch to another server until you find one that works.
- Update your VPN: An outdated VPN version will cause connection issues due to bugs. Most premium VPNs notify users if there’s an update pending. Tap on the button to get the latest version and try streaming again.
- Restart Router: The issue could be at the router’s source. If you’re having trouble launching the streaming app, restart the router to clear any bugs causing problems or reset the internet connection.
- Change VPNs: Countless VPNs are suited for unblocking and streaming platforms like Sling TV. If the one you’re using isn’t working, change it to a reliable one.
What Can You Watch on Sling TV?
Sling TV provides the following programming.
| MOVIES | TV SHOWS | LIVE SPORTS | NEWS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel Transylvania | Atlanta | NBA | MSNBC |
| Jojo Rabbit | Killing Eve | NFL Network | Fox News |
| Lala Land | Fear The Walking Dead | Boxing | CNN |
| Brightburn | American Dad | ESPN | Bloomberg |
| Hangover | Lucifer | Monday Night Football | CBS |
What Are Sling TV Subscription Plans?
Sling TV offers three main packages.
- Orange: This is ideal for families, costing $35/per month. It comes with 50 hours of DVR storage and over 31 channels. You can only stream on one device at a time.
- Blue: This is mainly for those looking for pure entertainment and a bit of news. It offers 50 hours of DVR storage and 41 channels. You can also stream on three devices at the same time.
- Orange & Blue: This has everything that Orange and Blue packages offer. It covers everything, has 47 channels, and 50 hours of DVR storage, and you can stream on three devices simultaneously.
How Do You Get Around Blackout Restrictions on Sling With a VPN?
A live blackout is a situation where a region is excluded from a live game broadcast.
This could be due to licensing restrictions.
But you can bypass this regional blackout on Sling TV by using a VPN.
All you have to do is switch to a server from a region where you’re sure the live broadcast is being streamed.
FAQ
What Is the Best VPN for Sling TV on Mobile Devices?
The best VPN for Sling TV on mobile devices is NordVPN.
It has apps for Android and iOS with a clean, easy-to-navigate user interface. NordVPN also offers 2000+ US servers that can unblock Sling TV on mobile devices, fast speeds for 4K streaming, a kill switch that stops IP leaks, and encryption that keeps your ISP from interfering with your streaming.
What Is the Best VPN for Sling TV on PC?
The best VPN for Sling TV on a PC is NordVPN. It has the largest US server network, making it easy to unblock Sling TV from anywhere.
The VPN’s PC app also has reliable security and privacy features like a kill switch for protection against IP leaks, encryption to counter snooping, and a public Wi-Fi protection feature for unsecured public networks.
Can a Free VPN Work With Sling TV?
A free VPN can work with Sling TV, but the experience will be far from ideal for several reasons. Free VPNs lack proper security features like kill switches, so the risk of your IP leaking out when your VPN connection drops is very high.
Likewise, free VPNs can be monitored, and their speeds throttled, leading to serious buffering when streaming 4K content.
Can Sling TV Ban My Account for Using a VPN?
Sling TV can ban your account if it finds out you’re using a VPN.
By using a VPN, you’ll be breaking copyright laws since you’ll be streaming unlicensed content. This is why you need a VPN with proper obfuscation, like ExpressVPN, to hide VPN traces from your traffic.
Wrapping Up
Sling TV is one of the many popular streaming platforms and packs a lot of entertainment. It’s no wonder people from outside the US want to get their hands on it.
To do so, NordVPN remains my number one recommendation.
The VPN’s streaming speeds are off-the-charts, its reliable privacy keeps you safe, and the over 2000 US servers ensures you unblock the platform without issues.
Does it fit your needs too? Then grab this exclusive deal before it runs out!
