5 Best Hulu VPNs for Streaming Anywhere in 2024
Watching Hulu from outside the United States has become increasingly straightforward with the right tools. If you’re traveling or living abroad and want to catch up on your favorite shows, using a VPN can effortlessly help you bypass geo-restrictions that Hulu imposes, allowing you to enjoy its content from anywhere in the world.
What is a VPN and Why Do You Need It for Hulu?
A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is a service that allows you to establish a secure connection over the internet by redirecting your traffic through a server located in a different region. When it comes to streaming on platforms like Hulu, a VPN essentially tricks the platform into thinking you are accessing it from an allowed region, like the United States, even if you’re physically located elsewhere.
Hulu restricts its streaming services to viewers within the US due to licensing agreements, making a VPN indispensable for anyone wanting to access its content from overseas. By connecting to a server within the US, you’ll be assigned a US IP address, effectively lifting the regional restrictions Hulu has in place.
Top 5 VPNs for Streaming Hulu in 2024
After extensive testing and analysis, we have curated a list of the top five VPNs that work seamlessly with Hulu in 2024. Our selection is based on streaming speeds, reliability, price, and user experience, ensuring you enjoy an uninterrupted Hulu streaming experience.
| VPN Provider | Strengths | Pricing (Monthly Avg.) |
|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | Best for Hulu + Live TV, fast speeds, strong encryption | $3.79 |
| Surfshark | Best for smartphone streaming, affordable long-term plans | $2.49 |
| ExpressVPN | Best for Smart TVs, user-friendly interface | $8.33 |
| CyberGhost | Most affordable, streaming-optimized servers | $2.37 |
| Hotspot Shield | Best free option, reliable Hulu access | Free |
NordVPN: Best for Hulu + Live TV
NordVPN stands out as a top choice due to its robust feature set and strong performance when unblocking Hulu. Boasting a large network of US servers, it ensures consistent access to Hulu with exceptional streaming quality. NordVPN is particularly noted for its speed, reaching up to 4K resolution without buffering. The app’s user interface offers an intuitive experience, much like the sprawling simplicity of streaming platforms themselves.
Features
- Multihop and Camouflage Mode for enhanced security
- Built-in Kill switch and Split Tunneling
- Consistent 4K streaming capability
Price plans vary, but their two-year deal often includes extra months at a discounted rate, providing great value for consistent use.
Surfshark: Best for Mobile Streaming
For those who primarily stream on mobile devices, Surfshark is an excellent choice. Its use of WireGuard for lightning-fast connections ensures a smooth streaming experience on smartphones and tablets. The app is easy to navigate, constantly updated with performance improvements, and supports unlimited simultaneous connections, meaning that one subscription can cover all your devices.
Features
- Intuitive mobile apps with dynamic and static IP addresses
- Competitive pricing for long-term plans
- Additional add-ons like antivirus and breach protection
ExpressVPN: Best for Smart TVs
ExpressVPN is ideal for smart TV users due to its Aircove VPN router, making it easy to stream Hulu on devices without native VPN support. While its monthly plans are pricier, the convenience, high-performance servers, and extensive server network justify the cost. ExpressVPN also boasts a robust set of features that enhance both streaming and privacy.
Features
- Aircove VPN router for seamless smart TV connection
- Reliable Hulu unblocking with multiple US server locations
- Fast load times, although streaming resolution maxes out at 2K
CyberGhost: Most Affordable Option
CyberGhost appeals to budget-conscious streamers who do not want to compromise on quality. With streaming-optimized servers in the US, it provides a smooth experience with 4K streaming. Its simple design makes CyberGhost highly accessible, especially for new VPN users. Moreover, real-time server load and latency help in selecting the best connection possible.
Features
- Informed server selection via load and latency metrics
- Streaming-optimized servers ensuring minimal lag
- Supports a decent number of simultaneous connections
Hotspot Shield: Best Free Option
Hotspot Shield offers the best free option for accessing Hulu, without speed limits, making it unique among free VPN services. The trade-off is the presence of ads and limited server access, but it’s an excellent starter option for budget-conscious users seeking to stream Hulu content.
Features
- No speed or data limits within session time limits
- Generous free minutes through ad consumption
- Strong encryption with user-friendly interface
Tips to Optimize Your Hulu Streaming with a VPN
While having a VPN significantly enhances your ability to access Hulu from abroad, here are some additional tips to ensure the best experience:
- Server Selection: Choose a server with low latency to minimize buffering.
- Protocol Choice: Opt for faster protocols like WireGuard or NordLynx.
- Regular Updates: Keep your VPN app updated for improved performance and security.
If you want to redeem Hulu gift cards or sign up for the service without a US credit card, remember to connect via a US server to ensure seamless access.
Conclusion: Enjoy Hulu from Anywhere
Accessing Hulu from outside the US has never been easier. By choosing any of these top VPNs, you can bypass regional restrictions and enjoy uninterrupted streaming. Not only do they provide access to Hulu’s extensive library, but they also enhance your overall online privacy and security. In a world where geographical barriers should not limit online content, a VPN is an invaluable tool.
