What Are the Best VPNs for DraftKings in 2024?

Not too long ago, if you wanted to make a bet on a UFC fight, you had to visit your local bookie, which could be an event in itself. However, thanks to the internet, you simply need to take your smartphone out of your pocket, open an app, and risk your kids’ college tuition money from the comfort of your easy chair.

Unfortunately, not everyone can take advantage of online betting, thanks to laws and regulations in various U.S. states and territories. Online fantasy sports contest and sports betting company DraftKings is available only in Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia and Wyoming.

How Can a VPN Help Me Access DraftKings?

Disclaimer: Before we get started, I must warn you to research your federal and state laws before using a VPN to bet via DraftKings, since rules and regulations can vary from region to region. Pixel Privacy would never encourage or condone illegal online betting of any kind. We also would never encourage using a VPN to spoof your geographic location for the specific purpose of breaking any laws.

The DraftKings website says, “​​You do not need to be a resident of one of these states [listed above] to place a bet, but you must be located in the state at the time you bet.” Or, you must at least appear to be located in the state when you bet.

That’s where our friend the Virtual Private Network (VPN) comes in.

A VPN is a popular tool that not only encrypts your internet connection, preventing anyone from monitoring your online travels, but also provides a virtual traveling of sorts, by making it appear as if you are in another part of your country or the world.

This provides access to content and services that might not normally be available in your actual location. ::COUGH!:: DraftKings! ::COUGH!::

A VPN makes it appear that you are located elsewhere by temporarily assigning a fresh IP address to your connected device. Since online services can use IP addresses to determine a device’s geographical area, a new IP address makes it look as if you are somewhere besides your actual spot on earth.

However, not all VPNs can reliably provide access to DraftKings and other online services. So, in this article, I will tell you about the VPN providers that offer reliable access to these geo-blocked services.

How to Access DraftKings by Using a VPN

What follows is a simple step-by-step guide on how you can access DraftKings from anywhere with a VPN. In this article, I’m assuming that you’ll be placing bets from a browser on your computer. If you are using the DraftKings app on a smartphone or a tablet, the process may differ slightly.

1. Choose a VPN with a good number of server locations in the areas that DraftKings serves and that offers the proven ability to access geo-controlled sites and content. NordVPN has proven to be the best VPN for unblocking restricted sites and services.
2. Install the VPN app on your device. Reputable VPNs, like NordVPN and the others on this list, offer comprehensive native app support.
3. Log into your VPN app and connect to a server located in a state that DraftKings serves.
4. Once connected to a VPN server, connect to DraftKings and place your bets.

Best VPNs for DraftKings

If you’re in a hurry to place a bet before the big game starts, here are the “highlights” of my top 7 VPNs for DraftKings:

1. NordVPN: Best VPN for DraftKings. This VPN offers reliable access to multiple types of geo-controlled content, including gambling sites like DraftKings and others. An impressive global server network provides fast connections while protecting you with comprehensive online security and privacy.
2. Surfshark: Save Your Money for Betting. This VPN is a good choice for bettors who would rather put their money to better use, like betting on tonight’s fights. Fast, well-protected connections for numerous popular devices are available.
3. ExpressVPN: Excellent, if a Bit Expensive. While this provider is more expensive than the other options on this list, it is known for its top-notch unblocking of geo-blocked content. Its connections are super fast, and you won’t need to worry about your online security or privacy.
4. CyberGhost: Best Bet for Rookie VPN Users. This provider is an excellent option for new VPN users in search of easy-to-use but comprehensive VPN services. Fast connections, comprehensive online protection and more are available.
5. Private Internet Access: Excellent Reliability. This provider’s global server network isn’t the largest, but it has grown over the last few years. It’s a good bet that this provider’s fast and well-protected connections will keep you covered.
6. PrivateVPN: Tiny Network Provides Great Protection. While the provider’s global server network is on the small side, its servers do an excellent job of unblocking content, including gambling and streaming sites.
7. Atlas VPN: Offers Unlimited Protection for Your Online Antics. This provider offers excellent protection for your online gambling and other online activities, with fast and well-protected connections.

To properly rank these VPNs, I examined the following criteria:

• Has servers in DraftKings regions
• Reliably unblocks geo-blocked content
• Comprehensive online security
• Excellent privacy protection
• Top-notch native app support

By considering the above, I came up with the top 7 VPNs for DraftKings.

1. NordVPN

Apr 2024

This well-respected VPN service provides reliable access to DraftKings when you’re traveling here and there.

The provider’s impressive global server network, which boasts close to 5,500 servers stationed in 60 countries around the globe, is extensive.

With plenty of servers stationed in many of the states DraftKings serves (Arizona, Colorado, Illinois, New Jersey, New York and Virginia), NordVPN has you covered. The provider also offers access to other geo-controlled content, like Netflix, ESPN and other streaming services.

Connection speeds are important, as you want to be sure to get your bets in before the match starts while you’re also likely watching the event on ESPN or another streaming network. NordVPN has blazingly-fast connections, providing plenty of no-data-cap bandwidth.

NordVPN keeps your online antics well undercover thanks to its use of 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and IP/DNS leak protection. The provider’s strict no-logs policy means there is no evidence of your online travels, and Bitcoin is always an option for paying your VPN subscription costs.

This VPN’s proprietary server network keeps third-party contractors away from NordVPN servers and your personal information. Also, NordVPN servers are run 100% from RAM, writing absolutely no data to a physical hard drive. So, whenever one of the servers is rebooted or shut down, all of the server’s data is securely and completely wiped.

Native app support is available for the iOS, Android, Android TV, macOS (with M1 CPU support), Amazon Fire, Linux and Windows device platforms. Chrome, Edge and Firefox browser users can make use of the VPN’s browser extensions. The VPN offers compatibility with multiple router makes and models.

NordVPN allows up to 6 simultaneous connections on a single account.

Customer support is available 24/7, with live agent chat, email, a support ticket system and a searchable support library all available.

BEST VPN FOR DRAFTKINGS:NordVPN’s impressive global server network has plenty of servers in multiple DraftKings states. In addition to DraftKings, the provider can reliably unblock content from around the globe. Fast, well-protected connections keep your gambling and other online activities incognito. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of NordVPN.

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2. Surfshark

Surfshark is the budget-minded user’s choice on this list, leaving you more money to place on a parlay.

With a total of 3,200+ servers stationed in 65 countries around the globe, Surfshark has your online content unblocking needs covered. That includes DraftKings, as the VPN has servers in Arizona, Colorado, Illinois, Michigan and New York.

The provider’s super-fast connections offer an excellent way to access the DraftKings virtual betting windows, streaming services and more. Never a data cap or any bandwidth throttling.

All Surfshark connections are protected with banking-grade 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch and IP/DNS leak prevention. The VPN keeps no server logs of any kind here, and you can use cryptocurrency to make your subscription payment.

The provider’s app options include offerings for the iOS, Android, Android TV, Fire TV, Linux, Windows and macOS (including native support for Apple Silicon-powered Macs). Chrome, Edge and Firefox browser extensions protect your in-browser wagering, and extensive router compatibility is also available.

The provider allows an unlimited number of concurrent connections on a single account.

24-hour support options are live chat, email and a searchable support database.

BUDGET-PRICED VPN:Surfshark may be a budget-priced VPN, but that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t offer reliable VPN services. Fast and well-protected connections, unlimited usage, a large global server network, excellent device support and more all add up to an excellent value for budget-minded folks. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of Surfshark.

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3. ExpressVPN

Now we go from budget-priced to premium-priced VPN protection. However, while ExpressVPN is more expensive than other VPNs on this list, it brings premium services to the table.

3,000+ servers based in 94 countries around the globe equals excellent global server coverage. The provider’s U.S.-based server locations include numerous DraftKings states, including Arizona, Colorado, Illinois, New Jersey and New York.

ExpressVPN is capable of unblocking DraftKings and other wagering sites, and can also access content from major streaming services like ESPN, Amazon Prime, Netflix and others.

ExpressVPN’s super-fast connection speeds allow users to quickly place a bet, view streaming content and enjoy other online activities.

Military-grade 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and IP/DNS leak prevention all work together to keep your online travels undercover.

No server logs, as well as a cryptocurrency subscription payment option, combine to maintain your privacy.

ExpressVPN operates all of its servers 100% from RAM, never writing any data to physical hard drives. All data is securely wiped from an ExpressVPN server whenever it is restarted or shut down.

Mac, Windows, iOS, Linux, Chromebook, Android and Android TV apps are available, which covers most popular device platforms. Also offered is constantly-improving router features, along with browser extensions for Edge, Chrome and Firefox browsers.

ExpressVPN allows a somewhat miserly 5 concurrent connections on a single username.

24-hour live support chat, email, a support form and a searchable support library provide around-the-clock support.

PREMIUM VPN PROTECTION:You may pay a bit more for ExpressVPN, but the provider’s top-notch VPN services still offer a good value. Excellent security and privacy features keep your online activities undercover, while the provider’s fast connections are great for all types of online pastimes. A 30-day money-back guarantee makes ExpressVPN a risk-free bet.

Read my full review of ExpressVPN.

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4. CyberGhost

 to DraftKings betting windows via easy-to-use apps, along with excellent online security and privacy, make it an excellent option for rookie VPN users. A 45-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of CyberGhost.

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5. Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access (PIA) is a well-established and well-respected VPN service provider.

The provider’s global server network boasts 3,300+ servers in over 80 countries. Along with above-average global coverage, the provider also has DraftKings covered thanks to the servers it has in Arizona, Colorado, Illinois, New Jersey and New York.

While PIA’s protected connections may not be the fastest on this list, they are definitely up to wagering, streaming sporting events, and all of your other favorite online pastimes. The provider never spoils your fun with data caps or bandwidth throttling.

PIA’s use of banking-grade encryption, IP/DNS leak prevention, and kill switch protection combine to keep you protected online. You can use the service to block ads, trackers, malware and malicious sites.

Meanwhile, the provider’s strict no-logs policy and acceptance of Bitcoin as subscription payment, combine to protect your privacy.

PIA offers native app support for the Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux platforms. Opera, Chrome and Firefox browser extensions are also available, along with impressive router support.

Users can simultaneously connect up to 10 devices to PIA servers.

Live support chat, a trouble ticket form and a searchable support library are all present and accounted for in the support column.

RELIABLE ACCESS TO VIRTUAL BETTING WINDOWS:PIA’s reliable access to DraftKings and other geo-controlled content is an excellent way to access your favorite sites while staying safe online. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of Private Internet Access.

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6. PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN may have the smallest global server network on this list, but it still provides reliable access to DraftKings in multiple U.S. states.

While PrivateVPN’s global server coverage (200+ servers spread thinly across 60 countries) is lacking, it does a top-notch job of providing access to content in the countries where it has servers. This includes DraftKings states, including Arizona, Colorado, Illinois, New Jersey and New York, all DraftKings-eligible states.

The provider makes a comeback in the connection speeds arena, providing ultra-fast connection speeds, meaning it is more than up to such online activities as wagering, streaming games and more.

Connection protection from PrivateVPN includes military-grade encryption, IP/DNS leak protection, and a kill switch on the Windows app.

This VPN service provider never keeps any usage logs, and a Bitcoin payment option is also available, which means your privacy is well-guarded when using this VPN service.

Unfortunately, PrivateVPN native app support is limited to iOS, Android, Mac and Windows. Browser extensions and router support are nowhere to be found.

Up to 6 devices can simultaneously connect on a single set of login credentials.

Customer support includes online chat, email and a non-searchable FAQ section.

GREAT PROTECTION:PrivateVPN is a good choice for bettors who concentrate on DraftKings. Blazingly-fast connections and top-notch online security and privacy are available for the Big 4 device platforms. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of PrivateVPN.

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7. Atlas VPN

Atlas VPN is a continually-improving VPN provider that offers excellent access to DraftKings servers.

The provider’s server network isn’t overly impressive (750+ servers in 32 countries), but it gets the job done. Most importantly for our purposes, the provider has servers based in multiple DraftKings-able states, including Arizona, New Jersey and New York.

The speeds of Atlas VPN’s no-data-caps connections measure in at 3-digit speeds. This means the provider can easily handle your favorite online activities.

Those speedy connections are well-protected thanks to Atlas VPN’s use of military-grade encryption, a kill switch and other protections. The provider’s proprietary Safebrowse and Safebrowse Plus features block malicious online services and unwanted ads. 

A strict no-server-logs-ever policy protects your usage history from prying eyes. Unfortunately, the provider does not accept any type of cryptocurrency for payment.

Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, Android TV and Amazon Fire TV apps have the major app platforms covered. Although the provider lacks support for Linux devices, routers, or browsers, it says that all three features are in the works.

There is no limit on the number of devices that users can simultaneously connect to the service.

Customer support consists of a (subscribers-only) live chat feature, email, contact form and searchable support library.

UNLIMITED ACCESS TO VIRTUAL BETTING WINDOWS:Atlas VPN offers an unlimited simultaneous connections policy, which allows you to access DraftKings on as many devices as your bank roll allows. Fast, well-protected connections keep things moving and secure. 30-day money-back guarantee available.

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Methodology for Assessing VPNs for DraftKings

You have to be careful when choosing a VPN for protected access to DraftKings and other betting and fantasy sports sites. That means you need to carefully consider a VPN’s features.

Below are the most important considerations when deciding which VPNs is the best bet for reliable access to DraftKings:

• Connection Speeds: Fast connection speeds are an important consideration when you’re wagering online. First, you want to get your wager down before the action begins. Plus, you’re likely streaming the game you’re betting on. Each VPN on this list has provided above-average connection speeds when tested.
• Server Network: Any VPN worth consideration needs to have servers located in countries (and in the case of DraftKings, specific U.S. states) where your desired content is located. Providers should also offer a large number of servers in its server farm locations, as this means the servers will perform more efficiently, as it helps prevent any individual server from being overwhelmed with users.
• Value: Why waste your money on an underperforming VPN provider? Always look for a VPN that offers top-notch performance and features for a reasonable price.
• Ease of Use: Providers should offer easy-to-use apps for a large number of devices. All of the VPNs on my list provide easy-to-use apps for many popular platforms.
• Security and Privacy: Online security and privacy are important considerations for any of your online activities. Always look for banking-level encryption, an automatic kill switch and DNS/IP leak protection (at a minimum). Also, never settle for less than a total no-server-logs-ever policy, meaning no one can share records of your online antics.
• Streaming: If you’re betting on a sporting event, you’ll likely be looking to stream it on ESPN or other sports networks. So, each VPN on my list offers reliable access to multiple streaming sites, including ESPN, Netflix and other popular streaming services.

The list above is not where I limit my research. This list is just a small part of what is considered during my comprehensive VPN testing methodology. This data-driven approach means I can carefully consider the VPNs and their services, allowing me to recommend providers that are a good fit for your needs.

Can I Use a Free VPN to Bet at DraftKings?

Never bet on a free VPN when it comes to DraftKings.

No free VPN can deliver security, privacy and connection speeds that come anywhere near what is offered by a top paid VPN.

First of all, most free VPNs have a limited number of servers, and will likely not have servers available in the states where DraftKings is available.

There are numerous other reasons you should stay away from “free” VPNs.

Even “free” VPN providers have to make money, and many of them do that by tracking your online activity, then selling that valuable data to advertisers and other Nosy Nellies.

Some free providers also insert unwanted tracking cookies and ads into your browser sessions.

Some free providers’ apps have even been found to be carriers of malware. This can post a huge risk to your online security, especially for financial-related online activities, like betting your hard-earned money.

Free VPNs usually try to preserve bandwidth for their paying customers, so they usually impose daily or monthly data caps, as well as throttling of free users’ bandwidth. This means your usage is limited AND slow. Not exactly a recipe for a satisfactory online experience.

I also previously mentioned how most free VPNs have a limited global server network. This is a drawback when it comes to wagering online and also poses a problem for streaming and other online activities.

Free VPN services are never a sure thing, and I strongly suggest that you lay a few bucks down on a reliable paid VPN instead.

Staying Within the Law When Accessing Betting Websites Like DraftKings

You’ll find that regulations concerning online gambling will vary greatly between countries and states. This applies to many forms of online gambling, including the types of wagering that DraftKings, FanDuel, bet365 and Betfair offer.

As I’ve mentioned previously, access to DraftKings is limited to bettors residing in Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia and Wyoming.

If you’re a resident of any of these states, you can use a VPN to access DraftKings when you’re traveling outside of these allowed states. However, if you reside in other states, you can get in a bit of trouble, which could lead to the loss of your gambling bankroll, as well as other possible penalties.

You’ll find that some countries lack formal laws concerning online gambling, creating a bit of a legal gray area – so do not automatically think that it’s okay to place bets if you reside in one of these regions.

Online wagering spots also have their own rules against bettors accessing their services from regions other than where it is specifically involved. This is usually because they need to be specifically allowed by local authorities to operate in certain countries, as well as in most U.S. states.

Always check the local laws where you are, as well as the rules on your betting website of choice.

Always do the above before you deposit money with the betting site and begin wagering. If not, you could risk having your bets considered as null and void. You could also have your funds – including your deposits and winnings – confiscated. You lose.

Contact the betting site directly, as it is the best way to determine if you are allowed to place bets with them from your current location.

NOTE: I must stress again that Pixel Privacy would never condone the use of a VPN to access betting services like DraftKings to illegally place bets. ALWAYS confirm the legality of betting from your current location before laying your bets.

Conclusion

Laws on online wagering can vary widely from country to country and state to state. You’ll also find that the terms and conditions can vary for each gambling den.

However, if you find that your online betting operator of choice allows wagers to be placed from your current temporary location, then you’ll find that a reliable VPN is the best way to deal with any geographical restrictions you may run into.

NordVPN is my top VPN for DraftKings, as it unblocks the betting and fantasy sports site, as well as other geo-restricted content. It provides fast, well-protected connections, excellent privacy protections, and much more for your favorite devices.

For more information or to purchase a subscription, visit the NordVPN website.