5 Best ESPN+ VPNs in 2024

ESPN+ is the biggest US-based sports streaming platform, offering exclusive NFL, MLB, UFC, and NBA games live and on-demand. However, ESPN+ is only available in the US. On top of that, even if you are a US resident, not all content is available from the get-go, as you'll face ESPN and ESPN Plus blackouts based on your location.

Luckily, you can use a VPN to solve all these problems. With a VPN, you will be able to unblock ESPN+ from anywhere and enjoy its content while traveling outside the US. Plus, you can switch between servers in different US states to avoid blackout restrictions.

In this article, we'll talk about the best VPN for ESPN Plus and explain how to watch ESPN+ with a VPN. We’ll also share why you need a VPN, how to pick the best one, how to bypass an ESPN Plus blackout, how to troubleshoot issues, and plenty more.

Best ESPN Plus VPNs - Our Shortlist

1. NordVPN – Our Best-Rated VPN for ESPN Plus in 2024
2. Surfshark – Speedy ESPN+ VPN for Inexperienced Users
3. ExpressVPN – Capable VPN for ESPN+ for Buffer-Free Streaming
4. CyberGhost VPN – Automated VPN for ESPN Plus with Optimized Servers
5. Private Internet Access – Advanced ESPN Plus VPN with Lots of US Servers

How to Watch ESPN Plus with a VPN

You need to subscribe to a reliable VPN provider with servers in the US, download it on your preferred streaming device, and choose a US server. Let’s see how it’s done:

1. Subscribe to a VPN that works with ESPN+ (we recommend NordVPN).
2. Download and install the VPN app on your device(s).
3. Open the VPN app and sign in using your credentials.
4. Connect to a US server where there are no blackouts for your desired event. 
5. That’s it! Now, you can launch ESPN+ and start streaming. 

By connecting to a US server, you’ll get a local IP address, which will help unblock ESPN Plus. You can also follow the same process to unblock other US-based sites from abroad.

The Best VPNs for ESPN+ in 2024

When choosing a suitable provider, you should follow a few key criteria that we set in our guide on the best VPN for streaming. First, the VPN should unblock ESPN+ from everywhere, along with other streaming services. Therefore, it must have an extensive server network with servers in the US so you can access the platform.

You should search for a provider with fast speeds and reliable performance. Furthermore, your chosen VPN must come with obfuscated servers to hide that you’re using a VPN and a kill switch that will activate if there is a connection failure. Also, it should also provide additional security features, such as robust encryption, secure protocols, and a strict no-logs policy.

Next, it must be compatible with many devices and support multiple simultaneous connections so that you can watch ESPN+ from anywhere. Lastly, the best VPN that works with ESPN Plus should have an affordable price, a money-back policy, and reliable customer support so you can try it risk-free and resolve any technical issues in no time.

According to the criteria above, here are the 5 best VPNs to watch ESPN Plus:

1. NordVPN – Our Best-Rated VPN for ESPN Plus in 2024

NordVPN offers a network of over 6,400 servers in 111 countries, which means that it can unblock ESPN+ from anywhere. By connecting to one of its 1,970+ US servers in 15 cities, you can bypass all geo-restrictions and access the platform outside the US, as well as avoid blackouts. This VPN also works with other streaming platforms.

This VPN employs obfuscated servers across a part of its network and a kill switch. Moreover, NordVPN has a strict no-logs policy, multiple protocol options (including its proprietary NordLynx, in addition to OpenVPN and IKEv2/IPsec), and AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption, further enhancing your online security. You'll also get to eliminate ads, scan for malware, and prevent online trackers.

We can also praise NordVPN's performance. No matter if US-based servers are near or far from your physical location, you can always expect smooth performance and fast speed. You’ll get the same performance on all devices, whether it’s a phone, computer, smart TV, media player, console, or router. Plus, you can have up to 10 simultaneous connections. 

This capable VPN is currently priced at $3.09/month (2-year subscription plan). In addition, you can take advantage of its 30-day money-back guarantee that allows full refunds if NordVPN’s services don’t appeal to you. We'll also mention that NordVPN will impress you with its 24/7 customer support available through live chat.

2. Surfshark – Speedy ESPN+ VPN for Inexperienced Users

Surfshark is a powerful ESPN Plus VPN with a wide network of 3,200+ servers located in 100 countries, enabling the VPN to unblock ESPN+ from everywhere, along with other streaming platforms. You just need to connect to any of its 600+ US servers across 25 locations. This will help you bypass any blackout restrictions, too.

If you want a VPN that prioritizes security, Surfshark is a perfect choice. It offers powerful obfuscation and an effective kill-switch feature. Additionally, you will get military-grade AES-256 or ChaCha20 data encryption, protocols like OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2/IPsec, and an independently audited no-logs policy. Plus, Surfshark helps you get rid of ads, trackers, and even malware.

Furthermore, Surfshark comes with lightning-fast speeds and consistent connections, making it a great option for streaming. Also, it supports a lot of different devices and has apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, all of which are really use to use. The cherry on top is that you will get unlimited simultaneous connections.

This VPN's 2-year subscription is priced at $2.19/month, which means you'll get plenty of value for your money. There's also a 30-day money-back guarantee. You can get a full refund if you’re unsatisfied with its overall performance. Last but not least, Surfshark offers reliable customer support, available 24/7, in addition to various other support channels, installation guides, and more.

3. ExpressVPN – Capable VPN for ESPN+ for Buffer-Free Streaming

ExpressVPN is a sophisticated yet simple-to-use VPN that works with ESPN+, no matter where you’re located—along with other popular streaming sites. This is possible thanks to an extensive server fleet with thousands of servers in 105 countries, including US servers in 15+ locations. It can also bypass blackout restrictions.

This VPN provides obfuscation on all of its servers, which is crucial for hiding that you’re even using a VPN. Besides that, you will benefit from the kill switch feature that makes sure none of your personal information is leaked if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly.

As highlighted in our ExpressVPN full review, this provider offers military-grade AES-256 and WolfSSL encryption, an independently audited no-logs policy, and strong VPN protocols like Lightway, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec. Also, ExpressVPN delivers ultra-fast speeds and stable connections, which are a must for a great streaming experience with ESPN+. 

This fantastic VPN is compatible with many devices, offering dedicated apps for Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux. Moreover, you can connect up to 8 devices simultaneously. 

ExpressVPN's lowest price is set at $6.67/month (annual plan). The provider comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, giving you a chance to try out its services and get a refund if you’re unsatisfied.If you have any issues, you can always contact ExpressVPN’s customer support, which is available 24/7.

4. CyberGhost VPN – Automated VPN for ESPN Plus with Optimized Servers

CyberGhost is a highly capable VPN that works with ESPN+ as it comes with a huge server fleet of thousands of servers in 100+ countries. It also unblocks other top streaming services. With its 1,500+ US servers in 10+ locations, you can easily avoid blackout restrictions.

This VPN might not offer obfuscated servers, but its unique NoSpy servers are quite similar and help you cover up your online activities. Furthermore, its kill switch feature will protect you if your connection suddenly fails. Learn more about that in our full analysis of CyberGhost VPN.

Besides these features, CyberGhost also implements AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption, an audited no-logs policy, and robust VPN protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec. Unfortunately, these protocols aren’t enough for it to be the fastest VPN. However, you will still get decent speeds and reliable performance.

If you decide to utilize CyberGhost, you will get 7 simultaneous connections and support for smartphones, computers, routers, media players, game consoles, and more. 

CyberGhost costs $2.19/month if you pick its 2-year plan. It offers a 14-day money-back guarantee for its monthly plan and a 45-day money-back guarantee for all other plans. Therefore, you can get a refund if you don’t find its services sufficient. All this is accompanied by the provider’s excellent customer support that will help with any issues that may arise.

5. Private Internet Access – Advanced ESPN Plus VPN with Lots of US Servers

Private Internet Access VPN (PIA) is a robust and highly advanced VPN provider, with an extensive network of thousands of servers across 90+ countries that will help you unblock ESPN+ no matter where you are—plus any other streamers. Simply connect to one of its US servers available in all 50 states. This will also help you bypass all blackout restrictions in the US. 

PIA is great for streaming ESPN Plus because it has obfuscated servers that hide your VPN usage and a kill switch that makes sure your real location doesn’t leak. In addition, it also utilizes AES-128 and AES-265 - as well as ChaCha20 encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and strong VPN protocols, such as WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec.

In terms of speed, PIA is decently fast and performs well, which is crucial for a seamless streaming experience. It's not the speediest option out of the box, so you should be ready to spend some time fine-tuning it as per your needs. That's why we recommend it to more advanced users.

PIA provides dedicated apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. Of course, it also works on dedicated streaming devices, as well as routers. Even better, it supports an unlimited number of simultaneous connections. 

PIA costs $2.19/month for its 2-year plan. There's a 30-day money-back policy that results in a risk-free streaming journey. Lastly, PIA guarantees 24/7 customer support.

Comparing the Best VPNs for ESPN Plus

Why Do You Need a VPN to Watch ESPN+?

ESPN+ is available in the US only, which means that you need a VPN to unblock the streaming service if you live/travel elsewhere. If you try to stream from unsupported regions, ESPN+ will show you the following message: “We are unable to play this video at the moment. Please try again later.” 

However, there are numerous other reasons to get a VPN. So, let’s explore them:

• Access ESPN+ Even From Outside the US – You can unblock the platform using a VPN with US servers. No matter if you live or travel outside the US, a VPN is all you need to stay on top of the latest events.
• Avoid ESPN Plus' Blackout Issues – To bypass ESPN blackouts, use a VPN and choose a server in an area outside the blackout zone.
• Bypass Selective Bandwidth Throttling – With a VPN, your ISP won’t be able to see how much data you use. So, it would be able to implement selective throttling.
• Conceal Your Browsing History - Your ISP can also see your browsing history, and the same applies to websites and online services. The only way to regain your privacy on the Web is to use a VPN.
• Upgrade Your Digital Security and Privacy - A VPN hides your IP address and ensures no one can track you online. In other words, websites and trackers won't see your physical location.
• Block Advertisements and Trackers While Streaming - All VPNs protect against tracking, while some can even prevent annoying ads from showing on sites and in apps.
• Connect Safely to Public/Hotel Wi-Fi Networks - With a VPN, you can turn even the most vulnerable Wi-Fi network into a highly secure one.

How to Pick the Best ESPN+ VPN?

Your chosen VPN must be able to unblock the platform at any moment, and it should have a large server network and streaming-friendly features. Find more details below.

• Ability to Unblock ESPN+ - Without any doubt, the most important feature to look for is the ability to unblock ESPN Plus on any device you own, any time you want.
• Server Network Size and Spread - To unblock ESPN+, your chosen VPN should offer US-based servers. However, pick one with servers in more US states, especially if your goal is to bypass blackouts on the streaming service.
• Speed and Reliable Performance - Your VPN should aid you in streaming. That means slowdowns and throttling should not happen. So, you'll want a fast VPN with stable performance.
• Access to Obfuscated Servers - Obfuscation allows your VPN to use smaller data packets, which is how it can bypass even the most advanced blocks.
• Privacy and Security Features - The best VPN should offer OpenVPN with AES-256, as that's the strongest VPN protocol currently available. Another option is WireGuard, which can also bypass geo-blocks without slowing you down.
• Sufficient Number of Simultaneous Connections - Plan to watch ESPN Plus on your computer, phone, and a large-screen TV? In that case, you'll need several connections and native apps for all your devices.
• Fair Pricing - You'll want a VPN that won't break the bank. If you wish to save in the long run, we recommend getting a long-term subscription.
• Liberal Money-Back Policy - Secure your purchase by getting a VPN with a solid money-back policy. Most VPNs give you around 30 days to test-drive them.
• 24/7 Customer Support - If you pick a VPN with 24/7 live chat support, you'll get to resolve issues in no time and return to streaming without interruption.

How to Get Around ESPN Plus Blackout Restrictions?

A VPN will help you bypass ESPN Plus blackout restrictions. To make that happen, find a reliable VPN and install it on your device. Then, connect to a server where the event is being aired. Once you do that, open your ESPN+ app and enjoy your favorite sports games. 

ESPN+ implements regional blackouts so it can protect rights holders’ rights. In other words, ESPN signs broadcast agreements with local channels and cable providers, which restrict in-market games on ESPN’s broadcast network. For example, if ABC wants exclusive rights to air a particular game on the East Coast, it will only be available on ESPN+ in that area.

Blackouts are implemented based on IP addresses. If your IP address belongs to a US state where the game is blacked out, ESPN will prevent your access until the game ends. A VPN helps you sidestep that issue by giving you a new IP address, from a US state where the event you plan to happen is available for streaming live.

ESPN Plus Not Working with a VPN - How to Fix?

Even the most reputable VPNs sometimes encounter errors. But don’t worry! We’ve come up with the most helpful techniques for fixing VPN-related issues, so let's take a closer look:

• Check Your Baseline Web Connection - Before trying anything else, see if your connection works as it should. Close your VPN and try browsing the Web to see if everything works properly.
• Change to a Different Server – Sometimes, VPN servers can get overcrowded, which results in ESPN Plus buffering, so just connect to another one and see if it solves the issue.
• Enable Obfuscation – In order to prevent ESPN+ from detecting your VPN, you should find a provider with obfuscated servers.
• Go For Another VPN Protocol – Some protocols are weaker than others and cause issues when streaming ESPN+. The best option is to use WireGuard because it’s the strongest and fastest. 
• Remove Cache and Cookies - If you're using a browser to stream ESPN Plus, residual cookies and cache might interfere with your new VPN location. So, remove any residual files.
• Update Your VPN Software – Outdated VPN software may cause lagging when you watch your favorite sports. Therefore, make sure you use the latest version of your chosen VPN. 
• Disable Your Device's Firewall - Windows PCs come with the firewall enabled by default, which can sometimes cause issues with VPN connections. We recommend disabling it.
• Turn Off Your Device's GPS Location - On mobile devices, ESPN+ might also use GPS data to check your location. To fix this, disable your device's location services.
• Restart Your Device – If none of the abovementioned tips work, you should restart your device. Then, reconnect to the VPN and try streaming again.
• Contact Customer Support - Your last resort is to turn to your VPN for assistance. We hope you've picked a VPN with 24/7 live chat support so you can chat with its agents live.

Is It Safe to Use a Free VPN for ESPN Plus?

Even though you'll find some free VPN services for ESPN Plus, most of them aren't safe, and we don't recommend using them. That's because free VPNs are unreliable and can reveal your location. 

They may lack robust security features, meaning they can contribute to data leaks and compromise your privacy. Also, free VPNs can even sell your data to third parties, as this is how they make revenue. 

They also have limited unblocking capabilities and may interrupt your sports streaming. This is because free VPNs usually have limited bandwidth and slow speeds, neither of which are suitable for streaming.

We recommend using premium VPNs with lightning-fast speeds that are crucial for issue-free streaming. If you wish to play it safe, go for a VPN trial version. For example, you can take advantage of a free trial of NordVPN, available on Android for 7 days. This VPN also offers a 45-day money-back guarantee for other platforms. If you're set on using a free option, you can try Proton VPN.

Final Thoughts

ESPN+ is hugely popular, but it’s limited to the US. Even US residents with existing accounts who travel can’t access it from other locations. Plus, ESPN Plus blackouts are frustratingly common, preventing you from watching games live. That said, the most effective way to unblock the app and bypass blackouts is to use a VPN optimized for streaming.

NordVPN provides the most complete set of features in this case. It offers unparalleled unblocking capabilities, next-level safety, blazing-fast speeds, and many US servers, all of which make it stand out from its competitors. It's the best VPN for ESPN+, as it lets you access the platform from anywhere and get an uninterrupted streaming experience with no blackout restrictions.

That’s all for our guide to choosing a VPN to unleash the full potential of ESPN+. If you have any questions, please leave them in the comments section below. Thanks for reading!