Your Fire Stick is a handy little gadget, but combining it with a trustworthy VPN (Virtual Private Network) will make your smart TV even smarter and help you check out streaming content from around the world. Plus, you don't need to be a technical wizard to make it happen.
The TechRadar team is always getting hands-on with today's best VPNs. We've put them through thorough tests to narrow down the five best Fire Stick VPNs available, and you'll find an in-depth analysis of each provider's unblocking power, speed, and overall value for money.
Keep reading to see which VPN has claimed the top spot in such a competitive (and crowded) market.
3 best VPNs: quick overview
Recent updates
Since our last update, our top providers have gone through another round of our rigorous, proprietary testing to see who continues to hold firm and who has begun encountering new issues since last time. Most notably, if you're looking for a Fire Stick VPN, the biggest change is we saw some issues with ExpressVPN unblocking content. While it was still able to unblock everything, it encountered some hiccups with Netflix in certain regions.
The best Fire Stick VPNs in 2024
Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.
The best Fire Stick VPN overall
1. NordVPN
The best Fire Stick VPN in 2024 - budget-friendly and super-speedy
Amazon App: Yes |external/go.expressvpn.com/c/4550836/1330033/16063?subId1=trd-us-3330134400124559710&sharedId=trd-us&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.expressvpn.com%2Fgo%2Fvpn-software%2Fvpn-fire-tv-stick" rel="sponsored noopener" target="_blank" data-url="https://www.expressvpn.com/go/vpn-software/vpn-fire-tv-stick" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade" data-hl-processed="hawklinks" data-placeholder-url="https://go.expressvpn.com/c/4550836/1330033/16063?subId1=hawk-custom-tracking&sharedId=hawk-prefix&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.expressvpn.com%2Fgo%2Fvpn-software%2Fvpn-fire-tv-stick" data-google-interstitial="false" data-merchant-name="ExpressVPN" data-merchant-id="298450" data-merchant-url="expressvpn.com" data-merchant-network="ImpactRad">
✔️ You want a super fast VPN for streaming: Express VPN is a great choice for streaming 4K on Fire Stick comfortably.
✔️ You want a VPN you can set and forget: ExpressVPN's auto-connect feature means connecting once, and you're always protected.
✔️ You want to stream content everywhere: with over 148 locations worldwide to choose from, you'll be able to access local content no matter where you are.
❌ You're on a strict budget: ExpressVPN is an expensive choice in a cost-of-living crisis. If you can't afford its prices, we'd recommend looking towards NordVPN or PIA.
❌ You want to tap into your US or UK Netflix account: ExpressVPN isn't consistent when unblocking these libraries, though it's perfect for watching in Japan or Australia.
🔒 ExpressVPN strikes the perfect balance between security, usability, performance, and unblocking capability, all while offering exceptional customization. Try for yourself with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
✔️ You're an avid Netflix fan: NordVPN is my #1 pick for Netflix, capable of unblocking content from around the world in just a few clicks.
✔️ You want a balance of quality and cost: check out a stacked roster of security tools, awesome speeds, and advanced features for mid-range prices.
✔️ You want an all-in-one security suite: with NordVPN, you're getting built-in ad blocking and malware protection as standard.
❌ Simplicity is key: the NordVPN apps lack a little polish, and IPVanish's UI is easier to navigate.
🔒 NordVPN claims the top spot in my rankings thanks to its awesome unblocking power and easy-to-use apps. Check it out yourself, and access tons of content, with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Check out our in-depth NordVPN review for a closer look at this all-in-one security solution.
NordVPN has earned a lot of positive reviews from Fire Stick users – just take a peek at the app store. It's all thanks to NordVPN's mix of awesome unblocking power, reliable speeds, and prices that don't break the bank. Go with NordVPN, and you're getting a battle-tested industry veteran that'll work seamlessly with your Fire Stick.
I'm always blown away by how many streaming platforms NordVPN can access. That's great news for folks who are subscribed to multiple platforms and want to get their money's worth. During my testing, I was able to unblock BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, and Disney+. Oh, and if you're a Netflix lover, you'll be glad to hear that the VPN can access libraries from the US, UK, Japan, Canada, Australia, and even Turkey. As you'd expect from the best streaming VPN around, NordVPN also works with smaller regional services, like ITVX and 9Now.
▶ Try NordVPN with a 30-day money-back guarantee
Buffering, slow-loading pages, and low-quality streams can really kill the vibe when you're trying to check out what's new on your Fire Stick. Luckily, NordVPN aced our performance tests in our most recent round of VPN evaluations. Using the proprietary NordLynx protocol (based on super-speedy WireGuard), it clocked in at over 950 Mbps. You only need around 25 Mbps to stream in 4K – which gives you an idea of just how quick NordVPN is.
Generally, I enjoy the NordVPN apps. The design is clear and clean and not inundated with clutter – but some features can be a little tricky to find if you're using the mobile app. It takes a few extra taps to land on the settings menu than you'd expect, for example, and the map-based interface can be difficult to use on smaller screens.
NordVPN doesn't pull punches when it comes to security. Strong encryption and a rock-solid kill switch ensure that you don't leave an identifiable trail across the web, and the service has even invited independent auditors to comb through its no-logs policy. You might think this is all a bit overkill, especially if you only plan on using the VPN to unblock content, but everyone has a right to digital privacy – and NordVPN can help prevent ISP throttling that might otherwise impact your streaming sessions.
All in all, NordVPN is a sturdy solution for most Fire Stick owners. It has all the right tools to protect your digital security while unblocking a world's worth of content, and add-on features you can include in your plan (if they take your fancy). See for yourself how it works with a 30-day money-back guarantee, and if you decide to commit, the most affordable rate comes with a 2-year plan (but you should pay attention to hikes in costs when it auto-renews).
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Akin to its mobile app counterparts, it is simple and gets the job done | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ease of use | You can find everything you need quickly and with ease | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Performance | One of our fastest VPNs | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Unblocking | Perfect for Netflix and other streaming services | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Security and privacy | Every bit as strong as ExpressVPN | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Customer support | Friendly, supportive, and professional | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price | Fantastic value for the money | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
The best VPN for beginners
2. ExpressVPN
Fast, easy to use, and a fantastic Fire TV app
Amazon App: Yes |external/go.expressvpn.com/c/4550836/1330033/16063?subId1=trd-us-3330134400124559710&sharedId=trd-us&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.expressvpn.com%2Fgo%2Fvpn-software%2Fvpn-fire-tv-stick" rel="sponsored noopener" target="_blank" data-url="https://www.expressvpn.com/go/vpn-software/vpn-fire-tv-stick" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade" data-hl-processed="hawklinks" data-placeholder-url="https://go.expressvpn.com/c/4550836/1330033/16063?subId1=hawk-custom-tracking&sharedId=hawk-prefix&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.expressvpn.com%2Fgo%2Fvpn-software%2Fvpn-fire-tv-stick" data-google-interstitial="false" data-merchant-name="ExpressVPN" data-merchant-id="298450" data-merchant-url="expressvpn.com" data-merchant-network="ImpactRad">
✔️ You want a super fast VPN for streaming: Express VPN is a great choice for streaming 4K on Fire Stick comfortably.
✔️ You want a VPN you can set and forget: ExpressVPN's auto-connect feature means connecting once, and you're always protected.
✔️ You want to stream content everywhere: with over 148 locations worldwide to choose from, you'll be able to access local content no matter where you are.
❌ You're on a strict budget: ExpressVPN is an expensive choice in a cost-of-living crisis. If you can't afford its prices, we'd recommend looking towards NordVPN or PIA.
❌ You want to tap into your US or UK Netflix account: ExpressVPN isn't consistent when unblocking these libraries, though it's perfect for watching in Japan or Australia.
🔒 ExpressVPN strikes the perfect balance between security, usability, performance, and unblocking capability, all while offering exceptional customization. Try for yourself with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Check out our in-depth
✔️ You want a super fast VPN for streaming: Express VPN is a great choice for streaming 4K on Fire Stick comfortably.
✔️ You want a VPN you can set and forget: ExpressVPN's auto-connect feature means connecting once, and you're always protected.
✔️ You want to stream content everywhere: with over 148 locations worldwide to choose from, you'll be able to access local content no matter where you are.
❌ You're on a strict budget: ExpressVPN is an expensive choice in a cost-of-living crisis. If you can't afford its prices, we'd recommend looking towards NordVPN or PIA.
❌ You want to tap into your US or UK Netflix account: ExpressVPN isn't consistent when unblocking these libraries, though it's perfect for watching in Japan or Australia.
🔒 ExpressVPN strikes the perfect balance between security, usability, performance, and unblocking capability, all while offering exceptional customization. Try for yourself with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Check out our in-depth
✔️ You want a super fast VPN for streaming: Express VPN is a great choice for streaming 4K on Fire Stick comfortably.
✔️ You want a VPN you can set and forget: ExpressVPN's auto-connect feature means connecting once, and you're always protected.
✔️ You want to stream content everywhere: with over 148 locations worldwide to choose from, you'll be able to access local content no matter where you are.
❌ You're on a strict budget: ExpressVPN is an expensive choice in a cost-of-living crisis. If you can't afford its prices, we'd recommend looking towards NordVPN or PIA.
❌ You want to tap into your US or UK Netflix account: ExpressVPN isn't consistent when unblocking these libraries, though it's perfect for watching in Japan or Australia.
🔒 ExpressVPN strikes the perfect balance between security, usability, performance, and unblocking capability, all while offering exceptional customization. Try for yourself with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Check out our in-depth
✔️ You want a super fast VPN for streaming: Express VPN is a great choice for streaming 4K on Fire Stick comfortably.
✔️ You want a VPN you can set and forget: ExpressVPN's auto-connect feature means connecting once, and you're always protected.
✔️ You want to stream content everywhere: with over 148 locations worldwide to choose from, you'll be able to access local content no matter where you are.
❌ You're on a strict budget: ExpressVPN is an expensive choice in a cost-of-living crisis. If you can't afford its prices, we'd recommend looking towards NordVPN or PIA.
❌ You want to tap into your US or UK Netflix account: ExpressVPN isn't consistent when unblocking these libraries, though it's perfect for watching in Japan or Australia.
🔒 ExpressVPN strikes the perfect balance between security, usability, performance, and unblocking capability, all while offering exceptional customization. Try for yourself with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
✔️ You want a super fast VPN for streaming: Express VPN is a great choice for streaming 4K on Fire Stick comfortably.
✔️ You want a VPN you can set and forget: ExpressVPN's auto-connect feature means connecting once, and you're always protected.
✔️ You want to stream content everywhere: with over 148 locations worldwide to choose from, you'll be able to access local content no matter where you are.
❌ You're on a strict budget: ExpressVPN is an expensive choice in a cost-of-living crisis. If you can't afford its prices, we'd recommend looking towards NordVPN or PIA.
❌ You want to tap into your US or UK Netflix account: ExpressVPN isn't consistent when unblocking these libraries, though it's perfect for watching in Japan or Australia.
🔒 ExpressVPN strikes the perfect balance between security, usability, performance, and unblocking capability, all while offering exceptional customization. Try for yourself with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Check out our in-depth ExpressVPN review for a closer look at the service, and see why it's our top VPN pick for 2023.
ExpressVPN is a top pick thanks to its easy-to-use and reliable Fire TV app and strong unblocking capabilities always giving us a smooth streaming experience.
An extensive server network of 148 locations over 106 countries (more than almost any other provider) makes getting an IP from the US, UK, Canada, or other countries super simple. This means you can access all popular streaming platforms, like Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, or Amazon Prime Video, no matter where you are.
The interface has a clear and straightforward design, making ExpressVPN an excellent choice for beginners. Our latest speed tests saw ExpressVPN clock in at 898 Mbps.
Admittedly that's not as fast as NordVPN, which maxed out our gigabit testing lines at 950 Mbps, but at 898 Mbps, ExpressVPN is more than 30 times faster than what you need for ultra-high definition. It provides solid overall performance and good streaming quality, enabling you to enjoy Full HD without buffering and slowdowns.
In our latest deep-dive stream unblocking tests, ExpressVPN was able to access every streaming service we threw at it, and in every region, too. That includes Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, ITVX, All 4, 9Now, and 10Play. However, in our everyday usage, we find ExpressVPN is outperformed by NordVPN, which we found to be more consistent with its unblocking and ran into fewer hiccups, even if both did eventually unblock the service.
ExpressVPN may seem like it comes with a higher price tag than other top picks like Surfshark or NordVPN. However, the service more than makes up for it by offering a built-in password manager, a year of cloud storage, and even a built-in threat manager to help block ads and malicious sites – all for free. Plus, if you compare the 1-year plans of NordVPN and ExpressVPN, they're about the same, so it's an even better deal than it appears on the surface.
Supporting eight simultaneous connections, ExpressVPN is a great option for tech-loving households, and installing it on your router will protect every device on your network. You'll find plenty of helpful guides on its site, and there is 24/7 live chat and email support at your disposal if you need additional help.
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Design | A clean and simple design that gives you everything you need, exactly when you need it | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ease of use | Intuitive apps with auto-connect functionality make life easier | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Performance | Fast enough for anything you could throw at it, but slower than NordVPN | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Unblocking | Effortlessly gives you access to content around the world | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Security and privacy | Express offers military-grade protection for total peace of mind | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Customer support | Always available, friendly, and helpful | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price | More expensive than leading competitors | ⭐⭐⭐ |
The best budget Fire Stick VPN
