Hulu is a popular video streaming service that streams movies and television shows from major and independent movie studios, as well as television networks from around the globe. In addition, the service streams its own original content.
Unfortunately, as of the writing of this article, Hulu is only available in the United States, its territories and Japan. Viewers in other regions are blocked from accessing the service. In addition to Hulu’s geographical viewing restrictions, users attempting to view the service while connected to networks managed by their school or employer may also find the service to be blocked.
Can a VPN Help Me View Hulu?
No matter why Hulu is being blocked, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) service is the best way to gain access to the extensive library of films and television shows available through the popular video streaming service.
Among the many useful features of a VPN is the ability to make a user appear as if they’re connected to the internet from another location. Users can seem to be connected from another city or even another country, enabling access to restricted content such as Hulu streams and other streaming services.
However, you can’t simply select a VPN at random and expect it to efficiently unblock Hulu.
Over the last few years, Hulu and other streaming services have become skilled at detecting and blocking the IP addresses of VPN servers. This makes finding a VPN provider that has a solid record of evading Hulu’s blockades all the more important.
In this article, I’ll reveal the top six VPNs for unblocking Hulu.
I’ll be focusing on the VPN providers’ individual abilities to provide reliable access to Hulu content from outside the U.S., as well as their connection speeds. I’ll also evaluate other crucial VPN features that make it a valuable addition to your online toolkit.
How to Watch Hulu Using a VPN
Using a VPN to access Hulu content while outside American or Japanese borders requires a few simple steps:
- Subscribe to a Hulu-capable VPN provider. (My VPN of choice is NordVPN.)
- Install the provider’s VPN app on your device(s).
- Log into the VPN’s system.
- Select a server located in the U.S. or Japan.
- Fire up your Hulu app, grab your popcorn, and start viewing!
But how do you know which VPN is right for you?
What Is the Best VPN for Watching Hulu?
After extensive testing, the following six VPNs have proven to be the best VPNs for watching Hulu. If you’re in a hurry, here’s a quick summary of each provider’s abilities:
- NordVPN: #1 Hulu VPN choice! This provider delivers excellent Hulu access. In addition to fast connections, NordVPN has all of the popular device platforms covered.
- Surfshark: Budget VPN for Hulu. Surfshark provides a high level of service for a low, low price. The provider does a reliable job of unblocking Hulu from outside the U.S. and offers unlimited simultaneous connections.
- ExpressVPN: Premium access to Hulu streams. This reliable VPN option offers plenty of U.S. and Japan-based servers that provide access to Hulu when you’re outside of U.S. borders. High-speed connections provide smooth access to Hulu’s HD streams.
- CyberGhost: Best bet for rookie VPN users. Another low-priced provider, CyberGhost’s best features are their easy-to-use apps and streaming-optimized servers. The provider is generous with its simultaneous connections allowance.
- Private Internet Access: Reliable access to Hulu. PIA provides reliable access to geo-controlled content, including Hulu. The provider’s global server network protects and enhances your online activities.
- PrivateVPN: Small but powerful VPN. This VPN’s small network has proven adept at unblocking Hulu. While their global server coverage could be better, PrivateVPN has the United States well-covered.
In order to rank the best six VPNs to use to view Hulu content from outside U.S. borders, I considered these crucial factors:
- Provides reliable access to Hulu and other streaming services
- U.S. and Japan-based server farms
- HD and 4K-capable connection speeds
- Strong security and privacy protections
- Strong native app support
Here is my list of the top six best VPNs for watching Hulu:
1. NordVPN
NordVPN takes the top spot this time around, thanks to its super-fast connection speeds, value pricing, and reliable access to Hulu and other streaming providers, including Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, and others.
The provider has 5,500+ servers stationed in 60 countries, as well as the U.S. and Japan-based servers I mentioned in the previous paragraph. NordVPN owns and operates its entire global server network, ensuring that third-party operators are kept away from your personal information.
NordVPN’s connections deliver speeds that were the fastest in my recent tests, and that can easily handle the HD streams that Hulu and other streaming services deliver.
NordVPN’s fast connections are well-encrypted by 256-bit protection, and a kill switch prevents your online activities from being laid open to prying eyes.
Privacy is a priority at NordVPN, as the service has a strict no-logs policy and happily accepts Bitcoin to protect your payment privacy. Plus, all server operations are run only from RAM, writing no data to a hard drive, meaning all data is wiped from a NordVPN server when it’s restarted.
If you watch Hulu on multiple devices, that’s not a problem, as NordVPN offers native apps for the Android, Android TV, iOS, macOS, Windows, and Linux platforms. (The macOS app now boasts native M1 Mac support.) If you enjoy viewing Hulu in your favorite browser, you’re also covered, thanks to Chrome, Edge and Firefox extensions.
If 6 concurrent connections on a single username aren’t sufficient, or if you have devices not covered by NordVPN, you can make use of the provider’s extensive router compatibility.
While NordVPN is quite reliable, there may come a time when you might have a question or two. That’s when the provider’s 24/7 support chat, email support and searchable support library will come in handy.
Pros:
- Plenty of U.S. and Japan-based servers
- Fast connection speeds
- Excellent security and privacy protections
- Value-priced
- Hulu server list and FAQ
Cons:
- No streaming-optimized servers listed in apps
BEST VPN FOR HULU:NordVPN offers a reasonable price, while providing a large number of services. With plenty of U.S.-based servers and HD- and 4K-capable data speeds, the service is completely binge-capable. A 30-day money-back guarantee gives you plenty of time to try it.
Read our full review of NordVPN.
2. Surfshark
Surfshark snagged the number two spot on this list thanks to its access to Hulu from outside of the U.S. and its impressive unlimited simultaneous connections allowance, as well as its low-low multi-year subscription prices.
This provider offers reliable access to the U.S.-based streams of Hulu, and it also does a good job of opening access to Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and HBO.
Global server coverage numbers tallying in at 3,200+ servers located in 95 countries are similar to those offered by many other providers, and the network has grown greatly over the last year or so. Their U.S.and Japan-based servers do a good job of providing access to Hulu. Plus, the provider delivers access to 30+ Netflix libraries around the globe.
Surfshark’s connection speeds are easily up to handling Hulu’s HD streams and most anything else you may have in mind.
Surfshark’s online security protections are second to none, with military-level encryption, as well as kill switch and ad-blocking protection.
Your privacy is equally well protected, as this provider keeps no logs of any kind recording your online antics and accepts Bitcoin as payment.
Native app support is above average, with apps available for the iOS, Android, Android TV, Linux, macOS (with native M1 Mac support), Windows, and Amazon Fire platforms. Firefox, Edge and Chrome browser extensions are available.
Surfshark allows an incredible unlimited number of devices to connect to their servers on a single login simultaneously. However, there may be devices that aren’t covered by the service’s app support, so it’s good to know comprehensive router compatibility is at the ready.
24/7 Customer support includes a searchable support library, a contact form, and live support chat.
Pros:
- U.S. and Japan Hulu access present and accounted for
- Unlimited concurrent connections
- Excellent security and privacy protections
- Fast connections
- Bargain pricing
Cons:
- Customization options are somewhat lacking
BEST BUDGET OPTION:Surfshark provides access to Hulu and allows an unlimited number of simultaneous VPN connections on a single username, making it an excellent option for large families and other movie-loving groups of folks. Large groups will also appreciate the budget-pricing of the provider’s extended subscriptions, providing long-term VPN protection at a low price. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.
Read our full review of Surfshark.
3. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is a reliable choice for providing access to the Hulu streaming library from outside of the United States.
In addition to Hulu, the service also offers reliable access to numerous other streaming services, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and many others.
ExpressVPN has more than 3,000 VPN servers stationed in 160 locations in 94 countries around the globe. Of those locations, plenty are in the U.S. and Japan.
This provider’s connection speeds can easily handle the high-definition video streams that Hulu and other streaming providers offer. Plus, there are no data caps or bandwidth limitations here.
Privacy and security are top priorities at ExpressVPN. The provider keeps no logs of its users’ online activities, and you can pay your tab using Bitcoin. In addition, the service protects your connection with military-grade encryption and a kill switch.
All ExpressVPN servers are run 100% only from RAM, writing no type of data to an actual hard drive. This means all data is securely wiped from the servers when they are rebooted.
Native app support is provided for macOS, iOS, Android, Android TV, Windows, Linux, and Amazon Fire devices. ExpressVPN’s Firefox, Chrome and Edge extensions can protect your browser sessions.
If you watch Hulu on your game console, set-top box, or smart TV, you can use the provider’s MediaStreamer DNS service to open access to the streaming service (although it will not encrypt your connection like the VPN service does).
If you need more than the 5 simultaneous connections the service allows, you can take advantage of ExpressVPN’s recently improved router compatibility.
Customer support is a 24/7 proposition, with around-the-clock live support chat, a searchable support database, email and a support ticket tracking system.
Pros:
- Reliably unblocks Hulu and other popular streaming services
- Excellent U.S. and Japan server coverage
- HD-capable connection speeds
- Top-notch native app support
Cons:
- Only 5 concurrent connections allowed
- More expensive than many other providers
RELIABLE UNBLOCKING:ExpressVPN is an admittedly expensive VPN but provides reliable unblocking of Hulu from outside U.S. borders. In addition to fast speeds, the provider also does an excellent job of protecting their customers’ security and privacy. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.
Read our full review of ExpressVPN.
4. CyberGhost
CyberGhost, although ranking at #4 on this list, the provider offers reliable unblocking of Hulu, thanks to its network of streaming-optimized servers. Plus, first-time VPN users will appreciate CyberGhost’s easy-to-use apps.
The provider has over 7,900+ servers located in 90 countries. A large number of those servers are in the United States and Japan, including a Hulu-optimized server option. The provider also does an excellent job of unblocking Netflix and other streaming services around the world.
CyberGhost’s connection speeds are fast, providing speeds more than capable of streaming HD and even 4K content with little to no buffering delay. Those connections are protected by 256-bit encryption and a kill switch protection option.
Never worry about your browsing habits being exposed to others, as the provider also follows a no-logs policy and happily accepts Bitcoin in return for its services.
Popular device platforms are well served by CyberGhost, as apps are available for Android, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, macOS, iOS, and Windows devices. Browser sessions can be protected by the provider’s Chrome and Firefox extensions.
While CyberGhost allows a generous 7 simultaneous connections on a single login, users with greater device requirements will appreciate the provider’s router compatibility.
CyberGhost also offers antivirus and malware protection, privacy protections, a password manager, warnings when your email address is included in a data breach, and other protective features.
Customer support is always there for you, with 24/7 live support chat, a support ticket tracking system and a searchable support library.
Pros:
- Plenty of U.S. and Japanese servers to access Hulu
- Fast connection speeds
- 7 simultaneous connections
- Comprehensive privacy and security protections
Cons:
- App doesn’t include options expected by advanced users
- Can’t unblock some other streaming sites
EASY ACCESS TO HULU:CyberGhost is an excellent option for first-time VPN users. The provider offers high-speed, reliable unblocking for Hulu streams via a simple-to-use app on most popular devices. A 45-day, no-risk money-back guarantee allows plenty of time for testing.
Read our full review of CyberGhost.
5. Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access (PIA) delivers reliable access to Hulu and other popular streaming sites.
The provider has more than 3,300 servers stationed in over 80 countries, providing access to Hulu and other geo-controlled streaming services.
Native app options from the provider include offerings for Android, Android TV, iOS, Windows, macOS and Linux devices. Chrome, Opera and Firefox browser extensions are also available, as is compatibility with multiple router makes and models.
Up to 10 devices can be concurrently connected on a single account.
PIA’s download speeds are not the fastest on this list. However, the provider’s connections provide more than enough bandwidth for popular online pastime, including streaming. The provider never spoils a viewing binge with data caps or bandwidth throttling.
PIA’s excellent protection for your internet connection includes government-grade encryption, IP/DNS leak prevention, and a kill switch. The service can also block ads, trackers, malware and dangerous websites.
PIA servers save no user logs at all and also accept Bitcoin as subscription payment. This helps protect both your usage and payment privacy.
PIA offers a live support chat option, a trouble ticket tracking form, and searchable support library.
Pros:
- Supports Hulu and other popular streamers
- Excellent online security and privacy
- Plenty of bandwidth
Cons:
- No streaming-enhanced servers
- Won’t work in some overly-restrictive countries
RELIABLE ACCESS TO HULU:Private Internet Access provides dependable access to Hulu, as well as other geo-fenced streaming services. The provider’s fast, well-protected connections make it a good choice for your favorite online activities. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.
Read my full review of Private Internet Access.
5. PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN delivers fast, Hulu-capable connections. In addition to Hulu and other streaming services, including Netflix, Amazon Prime, HBO, and BBC iPlayer.
This provider’s global server coverage is slim at best, with over 200 servers spread out in 60 countries. However, there are servers located in both the U.S. and Japan.
This provider’s connections are ready to stream, as both HD and 4K content should stream with little to no buffering delay. Those speeds will also come in handy for online gaming and file transfers.
Military-grade encryption and a kill switch help protect your data. The connections are also not subject to any bandwidth limitations or data caps, so binge away!
PrivateVPN accepts Bitcoin in return for its wares and doesn’t track you or record your activities while connected to their network of servers.
While multi-platform app support is limited to the big 4 (Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android), users can also take advantage of their extensive router capabilities to protect the rest of their connected devices. (That also comes in handy if 6 concurrent connections aren’t enough for your needs.)
Live chat, email, and an FAQ page are included among customer support options.
Pros:
- Opens up U.S. Hulu access internationally
- Very speedy connections
- Allows up to 6 simultaneous connections
Cons:
- Server numbers definitely could use improvement
- Multi-platform support limited to 4 most popular devices
SECURE HULU ACCESS:PrivateVPN may not have the greatest global server coverage, but they have them where it counts this time around. Plus, their connection speeds make them an above-average choice for streaming. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.
Read our full review of PrivateVPN.
Methodology for Assessing VPNs for Hulu
When you’re in search of a VPN that will allow you to stream all of your favorite Hulu content there are several important things to consider. Not just any VPN will unlock access to Hulu streams.
Here are the critical features you should consider when deciding on which VPN provider best fits your unique needs:
- Connection Speed: Fast download speeds are a must if you expect to enjoy your VPN-provided streaming experience. Slow connections cause extended buffering, pauses in the middle of a play, and other non-happy happenings. I conduct connection speed tests on a regular basis to assure that each VPN on my lists offer streaming-ready connections.
- Streaming access: Reliable access to ESPN+, Netflix, and other streamers is vital for an enjoyable streaming experience. All of the VPNs on my list offer reliable access to streaming services, including ESPN+, Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video and more.
- Global Server Network: A large global server network is an advantage, no matter what online activity you enjoy. Also, look for a large number of servers located in each country, as helps ensure that a single server won’t be overloaded with users, slowing its performance.
- Value: A VPN should ask a reasonable price for its service offerings. All of the VPNs I include on my lists offer an excellent value for their asking price.
- Ease of Use: Easy to use VPN apps are a must when the big game is starting, so you can connect quickly and start watching the game. Apps should also offer support for your favorite device, browser, or router. The VPNs I include on my lists offer easy-to-use apps for most popular devices.
- Security and Privacy: A VPN should provide comprehensive online security and privacy protection. All of the VPNs on my list offer banking-level encryption, an automatic kill switch and DNS/IP leak protection at a minimum. Many providers offer additional protections. None of the providers on my list save any logs related to your online activities.
My research doesn’t end here, as the list above includes just a few of the factors I consider as a part of my comprehensive VPN testing methodology. This data-driven approach provides a better understanding of each VPN and their service offerings. This allows me to recommend only VPNs that are a good fit for my readers’ needs.
Tip: Check out our guide to accessing Hulu from the U.K., Australia and Canada for more information.
Can I Use a Free VPN to Watch Hulu?
Maybe, but I don’t think you’ll be happy with it.
Hulu, and other major streaming services, are always on the lookout for viewers who are using a VPN to access their shows and movies. The services do this because their contracts with film and television studios require them to geographically control access to their materials.
When Hulu detects a large number of viewers accessing their content from the same IP address, they take a closer look at that traffic. If the service detects the IP address being used is owned by a VPN provider, it will block that IP address.
The VPN provider should then add new IP addresses, once again enabling access to Hulu from their servers. Then, in a while, Hulu may detect the replacement IPs, block those, and the cycle begins anew.
As you might imagine, this virtual game of whack-a-mole requires a VPN provider to have deep pockets to stay in the game. Free VPN providers simply don’t have the resources to engage in this back-and-forth competition.
Free VPNs are simply not going to offer reliable access to Hulu.
As well as unreliable access to Hulu, there are other reasons not to use a free VPN.
Free VPN privacy is an oxymoron. If you’re using a free VPN, there’s a good chance that your online activities are not as private as you think they are.
This lack of privacy basically amounts to you making a payment for your “free” VPN, but instead of paying with money, you’re paying with your privacy.
Many “free” VPNs track your online activities, collect that information, and sell it to the highest bidder. Some “free” VPNs also invade your privacy by inserting unwanted tracking cookies and ads into your browser sessions.
You’ll also pay for a “free” VPN with your time. Many gratis VPNs force their users to sit in a queue before being allowed to connect to one of their few select servers.
Users of free VPNs may also find that their connection speeds are throttled or that their data usage is capped, neither of which is good for viewing HD video.
A reliable, Hulu-compatible VPN can cost you as little as 3 bucks a month. Seems to me that reliable access to Hulu and other content on the web is worth that. Just drink one less Starbucks per month, and you’ll pay for it.
Besides, Starbucks’ Wi-Fi hotspots are not secured, just so you know.
What Else Can I Use a VPN For?
In addition to unblocking all that sweet content that Hulu and other streaming services have to offer, a VPN can also unblock gaming servers and other content and services that you might normally be blocked from accessing in your region of the world.
A VPN can also prevent your Internet Service Provider (ISP) from throttling your connection speeds. A VPN’s encrypted connection prevents your ISP (or anyone else) from monitoring your online travels.
That encryption also does an excellent job of protecting your personal information when you’re banking, paying bills, or shopping online.
This is an especially valuable feature for road warriors and other users that access the internet via unprotected Wi-Fi hotspots, such as those found in public locations. (And we’re back to Starbucks once again.)
Hulu VPN FAQs
What Is the Best Free VPN to Use with Hulu?
It's best not to try to use a free VPN with Hulu. Free VPNs throttle your bandwidth and impose data caps, neither of which is good when you're trying to stream on Hulu. Free VPNs also sell your information to third parties, violating your privacy. Paid VPNs are your best bet when it comes to watching Hulu, or doing anything else, for that matter.
How Do I Watch Hulu with a VPN?
It's easy to watch Hulu with a VPN. All you have to do is download your favorite VPN provider's app(s) to your device(s), pick a VPN server located in the U.S., connect to it, and bring up Hulu in your browser. Bam! You're now connected to Hulu.
What Is the Best VPN for the USA?
The best VPN for the USA happens to also be the best VPN for Hulu: NordVPN. NordVPN's powerful content-unblocking power, fast connection speeds, extensive multi-platform support, and solid security and privacy protections all combine to offer the best VPN experience with Hulu.
Conclusion
A Hulu subscription is a great way to keep up with your favorite television shows and movies.
By using a VPN, like NordVPN – which provides top-notch access to Hulu and other streaming services, HD-capable connections, and excellent privacy and security protection – you can open access to restricted content while protecting all of your online activities.
For more information or to purchase a subscription, visit the NordVPN website.
Contents [hide]
- Can a VPN Help Me View Hulu?
- How to Watch Hulu Using a VPN
- What Is the Best VPN for Watching Hulu?
- 1. NordVPN
- 2. Surfshark
- 3. ExpressVPN
- 4. CyberGhost
- 5. Private Internet Access
- 5. PrivateVPN
- Methodology for Assessing VPNs for Hulu
- Can I Use a Free VPN to Watch Hulu?
- What Else Can I Use a VPN For?
- Hulu VPN FAQs
- What Is the Best Free VPN to Use with Hulu?
- How Do I Watch Hulu with a VPN?
- What Is the Best VPN for the USA?
- Conclusion