5 Best VPNs for Popcorn Time in 2024

The original Popcorn Time site and GitHub repository have been removed due to allegations of copyright infringement, which prompted many forks to appear. That said, you probably use a copy of Popcorn Time, powered by P2P technology. No matter which fork you use, using it without VPN protection may get you into trouble with authorities for copyright infringement.

Plus, your ISP may throttle your connection, and your IP address can be exposed to those in your P2P swarm. On top of all that, your access to torrent sites may be limited if your country blocks them, which means you'll get fewer quality sources to stream from via Popcorn Time.

Luckily, you can overcome these issues easily with a VPN for Popcorn Time. A VPN comes with robust security features that enhance your network security, hide your real IP address and location, and bypass geo-restrictions from your home country or when traveling.

In this article, we’ll reveal the 5 best VPNs for Popcorn Time and teach you how to use the streamer with one. We also discuss why you might need a VPN and how to choose the best provider. In the end, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions. 

Best VPNs for Popcorn Time - Our Shortlist

1. NordVPN – Our #1-Rated Best VPN for Popcorn Time in 2024
2. Surfshark – Popcorn Time VPN with Top-Notch Security Features
3. ExpressVPN – Extremely Fast Provider with Total Obfuscation
4. CyberGhost VPN – VPN with Specialized P2P Servers Worldwide
5. Private Internet Access – Advanced VPN for Experienced Users

How to Stream Popcorn Time with a VPN Safely

The only way to anonymize your Web traffic is to sign up for a VPN. Once you download and install its app, you can start connecting to P2P servers. Go through the following procedure:

1. Subscribe to a VPN that works with Popcorn Time (we recommend NordVPN).
2. Download and install the VPN app on your preferred device(s).
3. Turn the kill switch on if it’s not enabled by default.
4. Launch the VPN app and connect to a P2P server (in Switzerland, Spain, or Romania).
5. Open the streaming app on your device.  
6. That’s it! You can now safely stream content with high-end security. 

We recommend using P2P servers in countries like Spain, Romania, and Switzerland, as that's how you'll evade copyright notices and open up your access to more torrent sites. NordVPN offers special P2P servers in all those countries, which is why it's our strong recommendation.

The Best VPNs for Popcorn Time in 2024

To find the most capable VPN provider, stick to the criteria provided in our article about the best torrenting VPNs. Most importantly, your VPN must work with Popcorn Time and have many P2P-compatible servers in many countries as part of a huge global server network. 

You should find a VPN with robust P2P-focused features, such as split tunneling, a kill switch, an ad-blocker, obfuscated servers, and anti-malware scanning. It also needs to offer AES 256-bit encryption, strong VPN protocols, and an audited no-logs policy. Next, because torrenting and streaming require fast speeds and use a lot of data, your VPN must deliver blazing speeds and stable performance.

Ensure you get enough simultaneous connections and native VPN applications for all your Popcorn Time-supported devices. A fair price and a generous money-back policy are also essential. Lastly, always go for a VPN with 24/7 customer support. 

Based on the criteria we explained above, here are the 5 best VPNs to use for Popcorn Time in 2024:

1. NordVPN – Our #1-Rated Best VPN for Popcorn Time in 2024

NordVPN is the best Popcorn Time VPN, with a huge server network of more than 6,300 servers in 111 countries, including 5,200+ P2P servers. It works effortlessly with Popcorn Time and allows you to torrent without worrying about your online security and privacy. The best part is that you can torrent on all its other servers as well. 

But what makes this VPN the best is its broad range of P2P-focused features. More precisely, NordVPN offers a reliable kill switch that immediately cuts your connection if the VPN fails, an ad-blocker that prevents pop-ups and access to suspicious sites, split tunneling, and real-time anti-malware scans.

On top of these features, NordVPN also prioritizes your Internet security. It comes with obfuscation on some of its servers; robust protocols like NordLynx, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec; AES 256 and ChaCha20 encryption that makes your traffic undetectable, an audited no-logs policy that guarantees the provider doesn’t share your confidential data, and a double VPN. 

But that’s not all! NordVPN also comes with lightning-fast speeds and dependable performance that will eliminate your lagging issues. It supports 10 simultaneous connections, making it one of the more generous VPNs in that aspect. Aside from that, you can count on brilliantly designed applications for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS/iPadOS, streaming devices, and even routers.

All that is available at $3.09/month (2-year plan). Moreover, you will be able to test its services thanks to its 30-day money-back guarantee and get help with any issue from its 24/7 customer support.

2. Surfshark – Popcorn Time VPN with Top-Notch Security Features

Surfshark is the next VPN we recommend for Popcorn Time. With its extensive server fleet of 3,200+ P2P-optimized servers in 100 countries, the VPN works smoothly with Popcorn Time, regardless of your location. Therefore, it is a perfect VPN for torrenting.

As soon as you connect to any Surfshark server, you’ll be protected by one of the most robust security shields. This includes a kill switch, split tunneling that creates dedicated tunnels for your P2P traffic, anti-malware scanning that detects suspicious files and prevents cyber threats from entering your device, an ad-blocker, and obfuscation on all 3,200+ servers. 

Surfshark boosts your overall privacy with features like its unique Nexus technology that rotates IP addresses, an audited no-logs policy, and protocols like the industry-leading WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec. Those are paired with AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption ciphers, so rest assured that your data won't leak while using Popcorn Time.

Another area where Surfshark excels is in the smooth downloading of torrents. It has impressive speeds and stable performance, even at longer distances. On top of that, you get unlimited simultaneous connections, as well as native software for computers, phones, tablets, routers, and more.

You can sign up for only $2.29/month (2-year subscription plan). Furthermore, it includes a 30-day money-back guarantee that will grant you a full refund if you’re unsatisfied and reliable 24/7 customer support you can reach even via live chat.

3. ExpressVPN – Extremely Fast Provider with Total Obfuscation

ExpressVPN is a well-known and highly reputable VPN featuring thousands of P2P-optimized servers across 105 countries. In other words, its entire network supports P2P traffic. As a result, it doesn’t show any issues when working with Popcorn Time.

This VPN is another excellent provider with many P2P-focused features. You will enjoy its reliable kill switch, split tunneling, ad blocker, and automatic obfuscation, which helps you hide your VPN usage. It's interesting to note that all servers are obfuscated by default, so you won't have to worry about enabling this feature manually.

What’s even better is that ExpressVPN also prevents data theft and online activity monitoring. To achieve this, the VPN provides AES 256-bit and WolfSSL encryption that doesn’t allow third parties to access your traffic, an audited no-logs policy, and robust VPN protocols, such as Lightway, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec.

ExpressVPN's performance won't disappoint you, either. More precisely, it has blazing-fast speeds and consistent performance. You get 8 simultaneous connections and mobile-like applications for PCs, phones, tablets, streaming devices, and even routers.

Its annual subscription costs $6.67/month, which is the lowest you can pay for this VPN. The provider also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee that helps you test its services and knowledgeable 24/7 customer support. As a result, you’ll resolve any issue that arises.

4. CyberGhost VPN – VPN with Specialized P2P Servers Worldwide

CyberGhost is another incredible VPN you can use for Popcorn Time. This VPN comes with an extra-wide server network, including thousands of servers in 100 countries. It also has P2P-compatible servers in almost all of its locations, making it a great solution for safe torrenting. 

Speaking of safe torrenting, CyberGhost offers a wide range of P2P features. You will benefit from its split tunneling, unique NoSpy servers that are privately owned by the company, a kill switch that cuts your connections if the VPN fails, and an ad blocker. Unfortunately, CyberGhost lacks obfuscated servers.

Besides these features, CyberGhost offers a bunch of other security measures. For example, you will get AES 256-bit and ChaCha20 encryption, an audited no-logs policy that guarantees the VPN doesn’t leak your personal data, and VPN protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec.

Next, you can count on medium-fast Internet speeds, so it would help to have a relatively fast baseline connection. On the plus side, CyberGhost supports 7 simultaneous connections and offers polished applications for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, routers, and plenty more.

Right now, this VPN is priced at $2.03/month for its 2-year plan. Last but not least, it has a generous 45-day money-back guarantee and 24/7 customer support that will help you get around any issue.

5. Private Internet Access – Advanced VPN for Experienced Users

Private Internet Access (PIA) is another capable option, especially for more advanced users. This VPN offers thousands of P2P-optimized servers in 90+ countries, which contributes to seamlessly working with Popcorn Time. 

PIA comes with every feature a torrenting VPN should have, including an ad-blocker, obfuscated servers, split tunneling that creates a separate tunnel for torrenting, a strong kill switch, and anti-malware scanning that detects malicious downloads. 

If you’re concerned about your overall safety, don’t be! PIA has your back. This fantastic VPN provider employs AES 128/256-bit and ChaCha20 encryption, a unique Multi-Hop feature that reroutes VPN connections through two servers, an audited no-logs policy, and strong VPN protocols (WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec). 

Unfortunately, its server fleet and all these amazing features don’t help with its average speeds. PIA is the slowest VPN on our list, although it has stable performance. Still, it supports unlimited simultaneous connections and applications for any device or platform imaginable.

PIA's 2-year subscription plan is priced at $2.03/month and comes backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee that grants you a refund if you’re not satisfied with its performance - as well as 24/7 customer support.  

Why Is It Important to Use a Popcorn Time VPN?

Popcorn Time is basically a torrent client that connects you to other users to download and upload files automatically. Therefore, a VPN is needed to safeguard your privacy, hide your online activity, and ensure you use your connection's full speed. Let's give you more information.

• Unblock Popcorn Time from Any Country - Popcorn Time is a P2P app that is often blocked in many countries around the world. If you can't access Popcorn Time, a VPN will give you unrestricted and anonymous access to this website or app.
• Reach More File Sources (Extra Torrent Sites) – Torrent sites are often geo-restricted or banned by authorities. By unblocking new torrent sites, done using a VPN, you'll allow Popcorn Time to reach more sources, helping you find high-quality video files.
• Avoid Potential P2P-Related Legal Threats - Popcorn Time and its forks are targeted by anti-piracy agencies, which exposes you to legal risks. You can stream worry-free by ensuring your data is encrypted and hidden from anyone who tracks what you do online.
• Use Popcorn Time While Traveling Abroad - If you're a frequent traveler, use a VPN to ensure full access to Popcorn Time from any country. Also, you'll get to visit your home sites when abroad without disrupting access to your online accounts.
• Bypass Firewall-Based Internet Restrictions - If P2P applications are blocked in your school or workplace, get a VPN with strong content-unblocking features. That way, you can bypass firewall restrictions and browse any website on any device.
• Stream on Popcorn Time Privately on Public Wi-Fi – Public Internet networks are often subject to hacker attacks. Due to this, your online privacy and safety are compromised when you connect to them, but a reliable VPN will avoid this issue. 
• Make Your Browsing Activity Anonymous – ISPs, governments, and even hackers can monitor you online unless you enable protection. Fortunately, a VPN conceals your browsing activities.
• Bypass Throttling Imposed by ISPs – As torrenting uses excessive amounts of data, it often leads to slow buffer issues and bandwidth throttling. You can bypass this with a VPN that hides your data usage, so any network buffering will be fast and efficient. 

Criteria to Follow to Find the Best VPN for Popcorn Time

The most important feature is the ability to unblock torrent sites, giving you more sources in Popcorn Time. However, don't forget about P2P servers, performance, and security features. Let's take a deeper dive into the criteria to follow:

• Ability to Reach Blocked Torrent Sites – Because many torrenting sites are blocked in numerous countries, you should choose a VPN that has strong unblocking capabilities.
• Servers with P2P Support – Search for a VPN with numerous P2P-optimized servers. This will help you stream safely and have fast network buffering. 
• Plenty of Servers Around the World – A vast server network is essential so you can connect to any server and unblock torrent sites from your region. 
• Kill Switch and Split Tunneling – In order to have a secure torrenting journey, you must find a VPN that has a kill switch and split tunneling, helping you prevent data leaks.
• Obfuscated Servers – Having a VPN with obfuscation will help you hide your VPN usage, which is crucial for a safe torrenting experience.
• Extra P2P-Focused Features – Besides the regular security features, your chosen VPN should come with P2P-focused features, such as an ad-blocker and anti-malware scanning.
• Trustworthy No-Logs Policy – If you want to be sure that the VPN won’t store and share your confidential information, select a VPN that has an audited no-logs policy.
• Capable Protocols and Encryption – A provider with VPN protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN, as well as military-grade encryption, is a must. 
• P2P-Friendly Performance – Slow buffer issues are pretty common when torrenting. Search for a VPN with fast speeds and consistent performance.
• Supported Devices & Simultaneous Connections Limit - You'll want native software across the board, as well as the ability to cover all your devices using a single subscription.
• Affordable Price & Plenty of Value - Pick a VPN that offers wallet-friendly pricing and steep discounts when buying a long-term subscription plan, which increases its value.
• Generous Money-Back Policy – If you are unsure whether your chosen VPN is right for you, you can take advantage of its money-back guarantee, which grants you a refund.
• 24/7-Available Customer Support – Another very important thing is for your VPN to have 24/7 knowledgeable customer support. This will come in handy if an issue arises.

Popcorn Time Alternatives

It's true that we have many Popcorn Time forks available, but they're quite unstable due to contact pressure from anti-privacy agencies. So, if you're looking for an alternative, we recommend focusing on legal replacements for Popcorn Time.

That said, Kodi is a great substitute for Popcorn Time. It's a home theater application that allows you to store your own movies, TV shows, music, and photos. So, you can stream your own media on any device. On top of that, Kodi has thousands of add-ons that expand its capabilities.

Our beginner's guide to Kodi can help you get started and understand the application better. Once you're ready to upgrade your user experience, check out the best Kodi add-ons.

Can You Use a Free VPN for Popcorn Time?

Yes, you can use a free VPN for Popcorn Time. But we don’t recommend you to do so because free VPN providers lack crucial security features. More precisely, free VPNs may collect and sell your private data and don’t come with P2P-optimized features, which contributes to the possibility of encountering malware.

They also have slow speeds, restricted bandwidth, and limited server networks. Furthermore, free VPN providers might not offer P2P-compatible servers, which is quite a drawback when using a VPN for such an activity. Let's not forget that free VPNs often bundle malicious code, so you'll expose your device to numerous risks and digital threats.

A much safer option is to try a premium VPN for free. We're talking about trials here, which present a great way to get premium-level features without any risk. For example, you can try NordVPN for 7 days through its trial on Android. There are 30-day money-back guarantees for other devices.

If you want to explore more trials or decide on a premium VPN, check our guide to the top VPN providers, where we've gathered a long list of trustworthy options.

Final Thoughts

Popcorn Time is a streaming platform combined with a P2P client. Due to this, you may get into legal trouble for downloading copyrighted files. Also, you can expose your IP address and encounter bandwidth throttling. To improve your online security and safety, as well as unblock the app from your home country or while traveling, you should use a reliable VPN provider.

Our recommendation is to use NordVPN, which comes as the best VPN for Popcorn Time, due to its P2P-optimized servers in 110+ countries, next-level security, incredible speeds, and stable performance. On top of that, you will be able to take advantage of its fantastic unblocking capabilities and stream safely from anywhere.

That’s all for our guide on the best VPNs for Popcorn Time in 2024. Don’t hesitate to leave any additional questions in the comment section below. Thank you for reading!