DraftKings is a sportsbook and fantasy sports service that allows users to bet on their fantasy teams – NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and soccer. Annoyingly for users, this service isn’t available in all locations across the US and worldwide.
However, the good news is that if you’re in a state or country where online betting with DraftKings isn’t allowed, you can bypass these restrictions with a VPN.
Accessing gambling sites such as DraftKings with a VPN is legal and allows you to enjoy playing fantasy sports regardless of your location. In addition to bypassing geographical restrictions, VPNs protect your privacy online and can even offer protection on open WiFi networks.
I have reviewed the top VPN providers for DraftKings in detail below. However, if you’re in a rush and need a quick summary, take a look at the list below.
The best VPNs for DraftKings:
- NordVPN: My number one choice for DraftKings. It has more than 7,200 servers globally, including 1,970+ servers in the US. In addition, it is a great option for unblocking geographically restricted services and offers fast connection speeds. Risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Surfshark: The best budget option for DraftKings. It has hundreds of servers in the US and can bypass geographical restrictions with ease. Allows an unlimited number of simultaneous connections.
- IPVanish: Offers fast connection speeds and US servers, ideal for DraftKings users. Strong security measures are in place.
- ExpressVPN: A good option for those needing US servers. Offers reliable speeds and the ability to unblock many different services.
- CyberGhost VPN: Has thousands of servers globally, including in the US. It has servers optimized for various purposes and is an easy VPN to use.
- Private Internet Access: Easy to use and is light on system resources. It has thousands of servers to choose from around the world.
- PrivateVPN: A privacy-conscious option with an extensive range of decent security features. Global server network and reliable connections.
While looking for the best VPNs for DraftKings, I considered several key criteria to find the top providers. Here’s what I looked for:
- Large server network with servers in the US
- Top-notch unblocking ability – especially for gambling sites
- Fast connection speeds for watching live sports and betting
- Strong security measures to keep your online activities private
- Easy to use for VPN beginners
- Value for money – must appeal to users of all budget sizes
For more information about the criteria I considered, make sure you check out the testing methodology section later in this article.
Best VPNs for DraftKings
Having considered all of the above information, here are the best VPN providers available for DraftKings.
1. NordVPN
NordVPN is the best VPN for DraftKings users who wish to watch live sports and bet on their fantasy teams. With very fast connection speeds and over 7,200 servers in 118+ countries, NordVPN is an excellent choice for those who stream a lot and want to reliably unblock online services. Plus, it has 1,970+ servers in the US.
Excellent security features keep users secure while using the service. For example, 256-bit AES encryption, an app-specific kill switch, an automatic ad-blocker, a malware scanner, and protection against DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks, will keep your connections secure. Plus, no logs are stored and cryptocurrency payments are accepted, which don’t associate users’ names with payments like credit cards.
NordVPN apps are available for macOS, iOS, Linux, Windows, and Android. Routers can be manually configured to work with the service. 10 simultaneous device connections are supported, and the customer support team can be reached 24/7.
Pros:
- Fast connection speeds for a positive betting experience
- Strong security measures
- No logs are stored
- Apps are available for many different platforms
- The customer support team is available 24/7
Cons:
- The desktop app can be slow at times
BEST VPN FOR DRAFTKINGS:NordVPN is my top choice for fantasy sports fans. It has a large server network in the US and abroad that offers fast speeds. Boasts excellent security features and provides users with a risk
2. Surfshark
Surfshark is an excellent budget VPN with fast connection speeds and strong security measures. In total, there are more than 3,200 servers in 100+ countries, including servers in the US. It’s a great choice for unblocking DraftKings and other restricted betting sites, no matter your location.
The provider’s security measures include 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and protection against DNS, WebRTC, and DNS leaks. There is also a traffic scrambling option, and Surfshark accepts cryptocurrency payments. Plus, you can connect an unlimited number of devices at once, which makes it a top provider for large families.
Surfshark has apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. In addition, some routers can have this service manually installed on them. The customer service team is available 24/7.
Pros:
- Can unblock many different services
- Fast connection speeds
- Strong security measures
- Supports an unlimited number of connections
- Accepts cryptocurrency payments
Cons:
- Some servers can be slow at times
BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark is an affordable VPN option that can unblock services such as DraftKings without hassle. It offers an unlimited number of connections and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
3. IPVanish
IPVanish is a secure provider with 2,400+ servers in 140+ locations. Servers are fast, which has helped it become a big hit among the Kodi streaming community. It is a good option for torrenting and unblocking a wide variety of services, such as gambling websites and online banking apps.
Solid security features include 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks. A traffic scrambling option is also available, and no logs are stored by this provider.
IPVanish has apps available for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Amazon Firestick, and Amazon Fire TV. It can also be manually set up on some routers and Linux. Supports an unlimited number of simultaneous connections and live chat support is available 24/7.
Pros:
- Fast connection speeds
- Unlimited number of connections
- No logs are stored
- Great option for torrenters and Kodi users
Cons:
- Some servers don’t work with Netflix
- Apps don’t work in China
UNLIMITED NUMBER OF CONNECTIONS:IPVanish offers fast speeds and supports an unlimited number of simultaneous connections. Suitable for those who want to play fantasy sports in every state across the US and abroad. 30-day money-back guarantee.
4. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN offers some of the best streaming speeds on the market for watching live sports. Its server network consists of 3,000+ servers in 105+ countries and is capable of unblocking many different services. Unblocks most leading streaming platforms, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, HBO Max, and more.
This provider also ensures the safety of its users with 256-bit AES encryption, perfect forward secrecy, a kill switch, and protection against WebRTC, IPv6, and DNS leaks. In addition to the regular website, ExpressVPN also has a .onion website in place, which is accessed via the heavily encrypted TOR network. It stores no logs and supports eight simultaneous device connections.
ExpressVPN has apps available for many different operating systems, including Android, Windows, Linux, iOS, and macOS. It can also be installed on some supported routers. Its customer support team is available 24/7 via the provided live chat.
Pros:
- Fast connection speeds
- Can unblock many different streaming platforms
- .onion site available and cryptocurrency payments are supported
- Strong security measures
Cons:
- A little more expensive than some of the other options on this list
- Doesn’t offer unlimited simultaneous connections
GREAT STREAMING VPN:ExpressVPN is one of the best VPNs on the market for streaming. It also values security and privacy, as shown by its .onion website and strict no-logs policy. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
5. CyberGhost VPN
CyberGhost VPN has a large server network that’s capable of unblocking services such as DraftKings and popular streaming platforms. With over 11,500+ servers located in 100+ countries, it’s a solid option for fantasy sports players around the world.
CyberGhost has strong security measures in place, which include protection against IPv6 and DNS leaks and 256-bit AES encryption. Plus, the provider stores no logs and a kill switch is included to stop your IP address from being leaked if your VPN connection drops out. CyberGhost also accepts cryptocurrency payments.
Apps are available for Linux, macOS, Windows, and Amazon Fire TV. Some routers can be manually set up with this service. Customer support is available 24/7 and seven simultaneous connections are allowed.
Pros:
- Clients are easy to use
- 24/7 live chat service available
- Large server network
- Strong security measures
Cons:
- Blocked in the UAE and China
- Torrenting and P2P may not work on all servers
LARGE SERVER NETWORK:CyberGhost has a network consisting of over 11,500 servers. This makes it a great option for users who need to access geographically restricted services around the world. Comes with a generous 45-day money-back guarantee.
6. Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a lightweight option with servers in over 91 countries. It boasts the biggest server network on this list, with an impressive 35,000+ to choose from. Not only is it a great option for unblocking gambling sites such as DraftKings, but it can also easily access most leading streaming platforms.
Strong security is offered by this provider, too. AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and split tunneling keep users safe while online. This service stores no logs and has long been a favorite among torrenters, with apps that provide several features P2P filesharers will find useful.
Apps are available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. PIA’s customer service is available via their 24/7 live chat and an unlimited number of device connections are allowed.
Pros:
- Strong security measures
- Can provide secure access to many services
- WireGuard VPN protocol supported (faster, more efficient protocol)
- Several customization options
Cons:
- Doesn’t work reliably in China
- App design is lacking in some ways
LIGHTWEIGHT AND EFFECTIVE:PIA is a lightweight option that can provide users with secure access to many services, such as DraftKings. Has several customization options and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
7. PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN is a small VPN provider with over 200 servers in 63+ countries. Despite the number of servers being small, the level of quality is not. Streaming speeds are fast, and it can unblock many different services, such as betting platforms and streaming sites.
The provider has several security measures in place, including 256-bit AES encryption and protection against DNS, WebRTC, and IPv6 leaks. This service stores no logs and accepts cryptocurrency payments for a greater level of anonymity.
PrivateVPN apps can be downloaded for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. Some routers and Linux devices can be manually configured to work with this service as well. It should be noted that PrivateVPN customer service agents can only be reached during regular Swedish business hours (PrivateVPN is a Swedish business). Despite this, the quality of customer service is excellent. Connect 10 devices simultaneously.
Pros:
- Can unblock several different services
- No logs are stored
- Works in China
Cons:
- Customer support not available 24/7
- Small server network
PRIVACY-FOCUSED VPN:PrivateVPN is a privacy-focused service, with strong encryption in place and a strict no-logs policy. Offers fast connection speeds and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Testing methodology: How I chose the best VPNs for DraftKings
While looking for the best providers, I considered many different options. This is because not all VPNs are created equal. Here are some of the factors I thought about while looking for the best VPNs for DraftKings:
- Strong server network: The greater the number of servers, the better. In the case of DraftKings, this includes VPNs in the US that will allow users to access the service if they are in a state that doesn’t permit access.
- Ability to unblock services: Many services attempt to block VPNs. However, top-tier solutions such as the providers in this list can bypass these blocks. Not only is this important for playing DraftKings, but also for accessing streaming sites such as Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Hulu.
- Strong security measures in place: The top-tier VPNs reviewed here offer plenty of excellent security measures, including strong encryption, kill switches, split tunneling, port forwarding, and more. A strict no-logs policy is also essential.
- Fast connection speeds: Fast speeds ensure users can use the internet without hindrance. All of these providers ensure you can use streaming platforms and gambling sites such as DraftKings without lag or buffering. You’ll also be able to watch live sport on platforms like ESPN, Eurosport, and TNT uninterrupted.
- Ease of use: The easier a VPN is to use, the easier it is for users to bypass DraftKings restrictions. While the options on this list are powerful, they are easy to use and allow users to access blocked services without needing to have expert knowledge.
- Value for money: Finally, subscribing to a decent VPN provider shouldn’t break the bank. All of the providers in this list offer good value for money, giving you plenty of bang for your buck. They also include a money-back guarantee, so you can try before you buy.
Check out my full VPN testing process guide for more information.
How to unblock DraftKings with a VPN
Follow these steps to use DraftKings with a VPN:
- Select a top-tier VPN that will work with DraftKings. I recommend using NordVPN. It’s fast and reliable and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Install the VPN on the device you want to use DraftKings.
- Connect the VPN to a location where DraftKings can be accessed from.
- Open DraftKings on your device, and you should now be able to access the service.
If you run into any issues, try clearing your cache and cookies. If you still experience problems, contact your VPN’s customer service team.
VPNs for DraftKings FAQs
Can I use a free VPN to unblock DraftKings?
No, I do not recommend using a free VPN. Free VPNs do not have the same infrastructure as paid options. Therefore, they don’t usually have the same number of servers or bandwidth, which can lead to a miserable betting experience because of slow speeds. In addition, free VPNs sometimes do not have encryption or leak protection in place, which can cause security issues. They have also been known to sell user data for a profit.
For these reasons, I recommend using a premium VPN, such as one of the best VPNs for DraftKings reviewed here. These options have strong security measures in place, are fast, and can easily unblock popular services without issue.
Which states is DraftKings blocked in?
DraftKings is available in the US, but not in all states. DraftKings is blocked in the following states:
- Alabama
- Alaska
- California
- Florida
- Georgia
- Idaho
- Kentucky
- Massachusetts
- Minnesota
- Missouri
- New Mexico
- North Dakota
- Oklahoma
- South Carolina
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Wisconsin
Therefore, you’ll have to choose a VPN server that isn’t in one of these states to access DraftKings.
Which fantasy sports are offered on DraftKings?
There are a number of sports available. Those include:
- MLB
- NFL
- NBA
- NHL
- Euroleague
- Formula 1
- College Football
- College Basketball
- NASCAR
- UFC
- Soccer