The Best VPNs for Amazon Prime Video
1. CyberGhost
When you choose CyberGhost, you know you’re getting full privacy and security when you surf the web and stream videos. CyberGhost is packed with features like an anti-fingerprinting system, different protocols, and no logging. Additionally, CyberGhost offers unlimited bandwidth, so you can stream from Prime Video as much as you like.
2. Norton
Everyone knows Norton for its powerful antivirus and online security tools. Well, the VPN service certainly lives up to the familiar Norton name and standard. Supporting OpenVPN protocol, Norton VPN has some serious security backing it up, not to mention strong no logging policies. Norton also offers a single device plan that makes protecting your most used-device really affordable. Oh, and did we mention that Norton VPN boasts 1200+ virtual servers around the globe? Well done, Norton.
3. NordVPN
NordVPN has all the trappings of a standard VPN, but on top of that, it comes with additional security features like an automatic kill switch, double encryption, and no logging. It has over 2500 servers in 56 locations, which means that the connection is swift and smooth.
Like most VPNs, when you order a larger package, you’ll ultimately end up paying less per month. If you’d like to save more but are hesitant about shelling out a large sum of money, NordVPN offers a free 3-day trial as well as a 30-day money-back guarantee (as always, read the fine print).
4. Surfshark
Surfshark is a great option for unblocking Amazon Prime content because this service has servers across 50 locations globally. This translates to superfast streaming and downloading speeds. Surfshark also has excellent security features including CleanWeb, whitelister, and malware, phishing, and ad-blockers, and automatic kill switch. What’s even cooler is that this service lets you connect unlimited devices to your single account, making it a real value for your money. And at less than $2 a month, how can you go wrong?!
5. ExpressVPN
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ExpressVPN offers a smooth connection, fast speed, and top-notch security, which makes it an ideal choice for people who want to access Prime Video while abroad. Moreover, the company offers 24/7 customer service via email and live chat, so whatever time zone you’re in, you can reach someone if you experience a problem.
6. Hotspot Shield
Known in the industry for its security and reliability, Hotspot Shield uses a patented VPN protocol to compress data and make it travel extremely quickly. This makes it an excellent choice to use with Prime Video, since it allows fast, uninterrupted streaming.
When it comes to pricing, Hotspot Shield is more expensive than its competitors, but if you order the 2-year plan, you can save significantly. The VPN also comes with a 45-day money back guarantee and is generally an excellent product.
7. PrivateVPN
You can have up to 6 simultaneous connections when you purchase a plan from PrivateVPN, along with iOS and Android apps, high-level encryption, and 24/7 customer support. In addition to streaming videos, PrivateVPN is also great for gaming networks, which can work well with Prime Video, which comes with free Twitch Prime membership, a platform for social gamers.
8. VyprVPN
VyprVPN is the brainchild of Golden Frog, a revered developing company and group of internet-freedom champions that stretches back to the beginning of the web. Suffice it to say, VyprVPN has the history, respect, and technology necessary to ease the mind of the most security-conscious users. Its VPN features numerous safeguards against prying eyes, including multiple encryption protocols and a personalized kill switch. With proprietary Chameleon technology, NAT Firewall security, and self-owned server clusters, it presents a solid choice for anyone looking to enjoy the fruits of Prime Video’s extensive library.
9. UltraVPN
UltraVPN has earned a reputation as a source for fast, reliable streaming. The server network is decently sized at 120 servers worldwide, but the unlimited bandwidth and lack of throttling makes it a nimble, well-performing VPN that’s ideal for users whose primary goal is to stream online content. On top of that UltraVPN uses the OpenVPN protocol along with a 256 bit encryption.
10. PureVPN
PureVPN is well-respected by VPN users across the board. That’s no surprise considering the provider’s robust network of more than 2,000 servers, its advanced safeguards, and notable speeds. The VPN features split tunneling and an internet kill switch to keep your shows and movies streaming without interruption, as well as 5 multiple logins so you and the family can each enjoy your own favorite entertainment. PureVPN is also based in Hong Kong, which is out of the jurisdiction of the 5 and 14 Eyes and therefore a secure choice for anyone concerned about privacy.
Using a VPN to Get Around Prime Video’s Geolocation Restrictions
If you’re outside the US and can’t stream from your Prime Video account, using a VPN is an affordable, convenient, and secure solution. A VPN (virtual private network) encrypts your data and obscures your location, which means that people outside the US can connect to servers in the US and then access their Prime Video accounts.
Which Devices Support Amazon Prime Video?
If you love the idea of using a VPN to access Amazon Prime Video but are not sure what devices it will work on, don’t worry - Prime Video is available on almost every device under the sun, including:
- Smart TVs
- PCs
- Blu-ray players
- Set-top boxes (Roku, Google TV, TiVo, Nvidia Shield)
- Amazon Fire TV, Fire TV Stick, Fire phone, Fire tablets
- Game consoles (PlayStation, Xbox, Wii)
- Android devices (Prime Video app for Android phones and tablets)
- iOS devices (Prime Video app for iPhone, iPad & iPod touch)
Bear in mind you’ll have to register each device with your Prime account. (More info on how to do this here.)
Once you know that you’ll be able to access your Prime Video account from all your devices, it’s time to decide which VPN to buy. To help you with your decision, we’ve compiled brief summaries of each of the top 5 VPNs so you can be an informed and educated consumer.
Setting up a VPN for Amazon Prime Video
While using a VPN might seem intimidating for those who have never used one before, it’s actually pretty simple and straightforward to set up and use.
Step 1: Choose your VPN provider, purchase plan
Step 2: Install software on your device
Step 3: Connect to server located in the U.S.
Step 4: Log in to Amazon Prime (make sure your account settings include a US address)
Step 5: Stream and enjoy
Troubleshooting
If your VPN is working really slowly, even if it’s from one of the top 5 reputed companies, don’t panic. There’s a number of things you can do to speed up your connection:
- Change servers
- Change VPN port/protocol
- Try a different device
- Restart your modem or device
If trying any of the above options are Greek to you, it’s best to talk to a customer support rep and have him or her help you troubleshoot. Unfortunately, all technology can go a bit wonky sometimes, but it doesn’t mean that the VPN you purchased is broken. It just means you need to figure out how to get it working at its maximum potential.
Amazon Instant Video vs. Amazon Prime Video
If you’ve been reading articles about Amazon Instant Video and Amazon Prime Video and don’t know what the heck the difference is, here’s a brief history to clear things up:
When Amazon’s streaming service launched in 2006, it was called Amazon Unbox. In 2008, it was rebranded as Amazon Instant Video on Demand, and in 2011, shortened to Amazon Instant Video. Also in 2011, it was added to services available to Prime members. Finally, in 2015, Amazon shortened the name to Amazon Video, which people can join independently of Prime membership. Amazon Prime Video is the same service, but for Prime members.
In short, Amazon Instant Video and Amazon Prime Video are the same thing, but the latter is the updated name. Likewise, Amazon Video and Amazon Prime Video are the same thing, but the first is for non-Prime members and the second is for Prime members.
Bottom Line
If you live outside the US or need to travel abroad and can’t bear the thought of not having access to your favorite Amazon Video shows and movies, getting a VPN is the optimal solution. VPNs offer additional security plus total anonymity, enabling you to connect to US servers wherever you are located in the world.
While VPN usage is pretty common these days, the technology behind it is quite sophisticated, which means that it’s important to read reviews and know exactly what you’re getting. However, with any of the 5 VPNs listed above, you can rest assured you are getting a top quality product that will let you stream from your beloved Prime Video account.
