Kodi’s very popular for streaming movies, TV shows, and sports, though it has other cool add-ons like game emulators. But few people realize that the app poses a risk to online security unless you’re using one of the best VPNs for Kodi.
Choose to stream with an unofficial add-on, and you could get into hot water with your internet provider. You could also risk downloading malware onto your device. What’s more, some add-ons just won’t work if you’re in the wrong country.
Using one of my recommendations for the best Kodi VPNs solves all of these problems. Here’s my full list of recommendations:
- Surfshark: The best overall VPN for Kodi
- NordVPN: Perfect for streaming on Kodi with excellent security
- CyberGhost: VPN for Kodi with dedicated streaming servers for optimized streaming
- ExpressVPN: Kodi VPN with a large network of fast servers
- IPVanish: User-friendly VPN for Kodi with low-cost subscriptions
Personally, I use Surfshark One, which combines the powerful streaming VPN, Surfshark, with its robust antivirus solution. But you can also get Surfshark VPN by itself if you’re looking for something a little cheaper.
Surfshark
Want to know more about Kodi and the best VPNs you can use to stream safely? Read our full article below.
We love Kodi. It’s one of the best ways to stream movies, shows, and sports in one place. Supporting Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and Raspberry Pi, it’s a flexible home entertainment service. But it can come with real risks attached.
Downloading Kodi add-ons from unknown sources can expose you to malware. Using unofficial streams can attract negative attention from your ISP (internet service provider). So, we strongly advise you to use one of the best VPNs for Kodi to protect yourself.
Surfshark is our best VPN provider for Kodi. It’ll encrypt and hide your activity from your ISP while protecting you from malware. It’ll also let you unblock add-ons that aren’t available in your region! So claim your 86% discount from Surfshark, the best Kodi VPN, or check out our full recommendations below.
Which is the Best VPN for Kodi?
Before I dive into the breakdown of the best Kodi VPN, let’s take a quick glance at how each of the VPN providers stacks up against one another. Once you’ve found your winner, you can install Kodi and the VPN app and get streaming!
| Editor’s Pick | |||||
| VPN |  |  |  |  | |
| Servers | 3000-5000 | 5000+ | 5000+ | Thousands | 2000-3000 |
| Connections | Unlimited | 10 | 7 | 8 | Unlimited |
| Protocols | OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard | OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard | OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard | OpenVPN, IKEv2, L2TP/IPsec, Lightway | OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard |
| Compatibilities |        | | | | |
| Netflix | |||||
| Money-back guarantee | Money-back guarantee, 30 Days | Money-back guarantee, 30 Days | Money-back guarantee, 45 Days | Money-back guarantee, 30 Days | Money-back guarantee, 30 Days |
| Price | $ 2.19 | $ 3.39 | $ 2.19 | $ 6.67 | $ 2.05 |
| Visit Surfshark | Visit NordVPN | Visit CyberGhost | Visit ExpressVPN | Visit IPVanish |
1. Surfshark: My best VPN for Kodi streaming and security
Why I picked Surfshark:
- Vast server network with 3200+ VPN servers in 100 countries
- More than 600+ US servers if you want to access Kodi US streaming apps like Sling TV or Hulu
- Easily bypass restrictions in countries with strong internet blockades, like China and Russia
- 256-bit data encryption and leak protection help guard against third-party tracking
- 30-day money-back guarantee – full refund if you want to cancel
- Unlimited simultaneous connections across any Kodi-enabled device
Surfshark is my top pick of VPNs for Kodi, as it is one of the few providers that offers unlimited device connections. It works best when you combine it with Surfshark’s antivirus as part of Surfshark One. With malware posing a risk on unofficial Kodi add-ons, I recommend you double up your protection with a VPN and antivirus.
In terms of the virtual private network itself, I’ve seen great success unblocking geo-restricted Kodi add-ons. My connection speeds have always been strong enough to stream without lag or buffering!
Want to learn more about the VPN that ranks so highly in our tests? Our comprehensive Surfshark VPN review looks at security and connection speeds in detail.
2. NordVPN: Perfect for streaming on Kodi with excellent security
Why I picked NordVPN:
- 6441 lightning-fast servers in 111 countries
- More than 1,970 US VPN servers can unblock American streaming service add-ons
- Get Threat Protection to protect yourself from malware when using unofficial apps
- Includes 256-bit encryption and stops your IP from leaking your true location and activity
- comes with a 30-day money-back VPN free trial
NordVPN is one of the best VPNs for Kodi. Its lightning-fast internet connection regularly tops out our speed test results among tens of other services. It’s one of the top VPNs for online security, too, making it perfect for Kodi.
I feel safe using unofficial Kodi add-ons thanks to the Threat Protection feature that blocks malware. NordVPN can also unblock all of the usual US streaming platforms, letting you use Hulu, Sling TV, ESPN, and more directly within the Kodi app.
Read our detailed NordVPN review to find out more about this VPN’s numerous security features. You’ll also find the results of our speed tests – NordVPN retained up to 96% of our speed!
3. CyberGhost: Kodi VPN with dedicated streaming servers
Why I picked CyberGhost:
- Pick from 11700+ VPN servers in 100 different countries
- 11 VPN server locations in the United States can unblock popular streaming service add-ons
- Dedicated streaming servers are best for Kodi movies or sports streaming
- 256-bit data encryption and IP leak protection to keep you safe from tracking
- 45-day money-back guarantee – the longest in the industry
CyberGhost‘s dedicated streaming servers are perfectly suited to streaming. I’ve tested CyberGhost and successfully unblocked US streaming services like Hulu and Sling TV and UK providers like BBC iPlayer. When I loaded up a movie on the Sling TV Kodi add-on, I got a perfect stream without lag, thanks to this VPN’s stable and rapid VPN connections.
With CyberGhost, one of the best Kodi VPNs, you’ll also be protected with 256-bit data encryption and a solid, no-leak app.
Want to find out more about CyberGhost VPN? Our CyberGhost review goes into more detail on this provider’s speed, security, and feature set.
4. ExpressVPN: VPN for Kodi with a large network of rapid servers and an easy-to-use app
Why I picked ExpressVPN:
- Broad choice of thousands of VPN servers in 105 countries
- Numerous US VPN servers in New York, Los Angeles, and many more cities
- Lightning-fast streams from ExpressVPN’s new 10GB server upgrade
- Straightforward app is good for VPN first-timers
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Another VPN that is a worthy contender in our best VPNs for Kodi list is ExpressVPN. It offers super-fast connections and a very straightforward application. It only really drops down in my ranking due to the cost – it’s one of the most expensive premium services.
But ExpressVPN’s quality at least justifies the price. It boasts security features that impressed me during my test circuit, and the company recently upgraded its server network to powerful 10GB servers!
You can find out more about ExpressVPN and how the service fares in our detailed ExpressVPN review. While pricey, this is a longstanding VPN service with a good track record for quality and reliability!
5. IPVanish: User-friendly VPN application with low-cost subscriptions
Why I picked IPVanish:
- Good spread of 2200+ VPN servers in 51 countries
- Offers servers in the US if you want to unblock Kodi streaming add-ons
- Good short-term VPN due to low-cost subscriptions compared to the industry
- Simple applications make this a very beginner-friendly VPN
- 30-day money-back guarantee available to new accounts
IPVanish is great for unblocking streaming services and getting HD streams on Kodi. You’ll still protect yourself with built-in 256-bit encryption and IP leak protection. But you’ll also benefit from easy-to-use applications and a low-cost subscription model for short-term use. There’s also a decent server network that includes US VPN servers for unblocking apps like ESPN and Hulu.
When testing IPVanish, our VPN experts called this provider “ideal for streaming.” Check out our full IPVanish review for more information and the results of our speed tests!
Important:
VPNOverview doesn’t condone using Kodi to access pirated content. While third-party add-ons certainly make it possible, you should understand the risks involved if you choose to do so.
How We Chose the Best VPNs for Kodi
Your Kodi VPN needs to check certain boxes. In my estimation, most Kodi users are going to primarily be looking to stream movies, TV shows, and sports. But security is a concern, too. Surfshark impressed me the most in all of these areas thanks to its built-in antivirus. Here’s the full set of criteria I considered for the best Kodi VPNs:
- Providers that are fast enough for streaming without laggy or buffering videos
- VPNs that offer unlimited bandwidth
- Security features that’ll keep you safe from malware on unofficial Kodi add-on websites
- Full data encryption to protect your private information
- Robust IP-cloaking ability to unblock region-locked add-ons on Kodi
Why You Need a VPN With Kodi
Kodi is an official app, so why use a VPN with Kodi? Unfortunately, the platform comes with risks. Third-party add-ons pose a risk of malware if you choose the wrong ones. Also, since most third-party apps are using unofficial, unlicensed movies or sports streams, accessing them is illegal in certain countries.
You’ll also hit limitations if you try to access certain add-ons in some regions without a VPN. So, how can one of the best VPNs for Kodi protect you and allow you to use Kodi to its fullest potential? Here’s how you can stay safe with a VPN for Kodi:
- Stream and surf anonymously. With a VPN, internet activity stays hidden from internet service providers and everybody else.
- Access blocked services. You’ll need a VPN to unblock US streaming websites if you aren’t in the US, like Sling TV and Hulu.
- Get malware protection. Some of the best Kodi add-ons are unofficial solutions. Unfortunately, using third-party apps poses a malware risk.
- Stay anonymous. If your ISP sees you’re accessing pirated content on third-party add-ons, you could get into hot water. VPNs encrypt your internet traffic, keeping it hidden.
Can You Use a Free VPN for Kodi?
Free VPNs are good for a limited subset of tasks, but I advise steering clear of a free VPN for Kodi streaming. Some are simply downright unsafe and either sell your data or leak your IP address. But there are other drawbacks, too:
- Limited data use: Kodi offers a lot of video add-ons that consume data quickly. Most free Kodi VPNs will only give you between 1 – 10GB worth of data per day. It’s not enough for streaming, which uses around 3-5GB per hour in HD.
- Poor connection speeds: I’ve only chosen VPNs that offer high-speed servers. These are critical for streaming without lag, but free VPNs can’t usually guarantee such a stable connection.
- Lack of server choice: Want to unblock Hulu or Sling TV? You’ll need a US IP address. The same applies to UK or Australian servers for streaming platforms locked to those countries. Free VPNs only offer very limited server networks.
In short, if you actually want to be protected against malware and tracking, and you want the greatest choice of options for streaming, don’t use a free VPN for Kodi. Instead, claim a 86% discount on Surfshark and pay just $ 2.19 per month to get started. You can always cancel within 30 days and get a refund if you change your mind.
How to Use a VPN With Kodi
Want to use your VPN with a smart TV, like an Android TV or a router? Installation isn’t always as straightforward as downloading an app. But with Kodi, it’s much easier. The latest version of Kodi, 19 (Matrix), offers free add-ons that facilitate VPN installations.
Zomboided, for example, lets you install any VPN on Kodi in just a few clicks.
Once you’re connected, you can stream on that device securely using Kodi – or on any Wi-Fi device if you choose to install a VPN on your router.
Installing a VPN on Android TV Boxes (Kodi Boxes)
Android TV boxes and Kodi boxes are no exception to the rule when it comes to using a VPN with Kodi. I strongly recommend you protect this device with a solid VPN provider. Android’s OS (operating system) is open to third-party developers, which makes it prone to malware.
Thankfully, this process is really simple. I had my VPN running on my Kodi box in just a few minutes after I’d signed up. Here’s how to install a VPN on an Android TV box:
- Head to the Google Play Store on your Android TV box. Look for Surfshark, the best VPN for Kodi, or your other chosen VPN and install it.
- Input the VPN login credentials you created when you subscribed to your VPN.
- Choose a VPN server – if you’re not sure, the US is a good bet for unblocking loads of streaming services.
- Click on Connect to start your secure VPN connection.
VPNs to Avoid With Kodi
As part of their research, our cybersecurity experts tipped me off to some VPNs you should avoid. That’s either because they’re not fit for streaming on Kodi, or they’re just inherently unsafe. I recommend you steer clear of these providers.
| VPN Provider | Why You Should Avoid It |
|---|---|
| Hola VPN | I recommend avoiding any VPN that logs your data. Hola is one of those VPNs. While it’s free, it could compromise your online security and anonymity. |
| Radmin VPN | Radmin is a Windows-only “VPN” that can’t unblock any streaming services, making it pretty useless for Kodi. What’s more, it isn’t really a VPN and lacks the features we’d expect. |
| Tuxler VPN | Tuxler can unblock a couple of streaming sites, but not all of them. Regardless, during our speed tests, it failed to deliver the kind of speeds you need for streaming on Kodi. |
Why Trust Our Research?
Here at VPNOverview, we’ve been vetting cybersecurity software and putting it through its paces for years. We understand the risks associated with all kinds of online activities, and we know which tools you need to best protect yourself.
We’ve tested hundreds of VPNs, antivirus packages, and countless other tools, like password managers and secure cloud storage. Our experience means that we can recommend the best software to protect you and your device.
Conclusion: Use the Best VPN for Kodi
In short, I’d advise you not to use Kodi without a VPN. You’ll be exposing yourself to unnecessary risks that could compromise your device or get you unwanted flak from your internet service provider.
Fortunately, there are loads of options out there, so you can easily find the best Kodi VPN. I pay just $ 2.19 per month to protect myself on Kodi using Surfshark. The peace of mind you get from knowing you won’t accidentally download malware or expose your identity to others is worth the price if you ask me.
Ready to claim your Surfshark VPN discount? Just click on the button below!
Got more questions about the best VPN services for Kodi or simply want to ask something else? Check out our frequently asked questions below or leave us a comment!
The best VPN for Kodi is Surfshark, according to our cybersecurity experts who have tested numerous providers. It protected our IP and internet activity, while letting us unblock streaming apps and stream in perfect quality, without restrictions. Best of all, Surfshark One includes a powerful antivirus to avoid Kodi malware.
There are two ways to install a VPN connection on Kodi. You can use a Kodi add-on that makes the process simple, or you can install the VPN directly onto the device you want to use with Kodi. Our guide to setting up a VPN connection on Kodi makes the process straightforward.
We recommend that you use a VPN on Kodi for three primary reasons:
- It’ll protect you from malware that poses a risk from unofficial Kodi add-ons
- It hides your activity from third parties like your internet service provider
- You can unblock streaming add-ons that are region locked, like Sling TV and Hulu in the US
There are also other advantages to using a VPN in day-to-day browsing, not just for Kodi!
