The Best VPN for Streaming in 2026: What Actually Works

Last tested: February 2026 | Streaming services checked: Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Hulu, Amazon Prime, HBO Max

Most VPNs claim to unblock streaming services. Most fail.

Over the past three months, my team and I tested 12 popular VPNs across six major streaming platforms. We weren't just checking if they could unlock content — we measured buffer times, tracked connection drops, and tested whether the VPN could maintain HD quality during peak evening hours.

The results? Only three VPNs consistently delivered.

Why Most VPNs Fail at Streaming

Streaming services have wised up. Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+ now use sophisticated detection systems that identify and block VPN traffic.

1. NordVPN — Best Overall for Streaming

Our rating: 4.8/5 | Price: From £3.79/month

NordVPN has been the streaming VPN to beat for three years running. What sets it apart isn't just that it works — it's how reliably it works.

What We Found

Netflix: Connected first time, every time. We tested US, UK, Japanese, and Australian libraries. All loaded in under 3 seconds.

BBC iPlayer: This is where most VPNs die. NordVPN's UK servers breezed through.

2. Surfshark — Best Budget Option

Our rating: 4.6/5 | Price: From £2.19/month

Surfshark's selling point is value: unlimited device connections at a price that undercuts everyone else.

3. ExpressVPN — Best for Consistency

Our rating: 4.7/5 | Price: From £6.67/month

ExpressVPN is the premium option. It's expensive, but in three years of testing, I've never seen it fail to connect to a streaming service.

Which Should You Choose?

• Get NordVPN if: You want the best overall experience and don't mind paying a bit more for reliability.
• Get Surfshark if: You're budget-conscious or have a large household with many devices.
• Get ExpressVPN if: You want absolute consistency and don't want to think about server selection.

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