Best VPNs for Hotstar: Stream outside India

Hotstar offers viewers over 60,000 hours of TV shows, 2,000+ Indian movies, and live sports – making it India’s largest streaming service. It offers shows in several different local Indian languages, which is why it’s hugely appealing to viewers from various regions across the country.

While it is a great option for watching Indian shows, it is unavailable outside of India. However, with a VPN, you can bypass geographical restrictions and also mask your identity from governments, ISPs, and hackers on open WiFi networks.

In this article, I have reviewed the top VPNs for Hotstar in detail. However, if you’re short on time, here is a quick summary.

The best VPNs for Hotstar:

1. NordVPN: My number one choice for Hotstar. Has over 7,000 servers in more than 118 countries, including India. NordVPN offers fast streaming speeds and strong security, with optimized servers for different purposes. Comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Surfshark : A great budget option for Hotstar. Has fast streaming speeds and is no slouch when it comes to keeping you safe online, thanks to strong security measures.
3. IPVanish: A solid option for streaming that has long been trusted by the Kodi community. Security is strong and you can connect an unlimited number of devices at once.
4. ExpressVPN: Offers fast streaming speeds and accepts cryptocurrency. It has no problems providing access to Hotstar and other popular streaming platforms from around the world.
5. CyberGhost VPN: A solid option for users who want to watch Hotstar, thanks to a large collection of servers and lag-free streaming. It also offers servers that are optimized for streaming.
6. Proton VPN: Has a large, global server network and can easily bypass streaming services – including Hotstar. Offers decent connection speeds and servers in India.
7. Private Internet Access: An easy-to-use option that is more than capable of bypassing Hotstar. Makes use of the lightweight and fast WireGuard VPN protocol.
8. PrivateVPN: A privacy-focused provider that has a small but global server network. It can bypass blocks on many streaming platforms and other online services, such as online banking apps.

Below, I have reviewed the best VPNs for Hotstar in detail. Here are some of the factors I considered when making my choice:

• Servers in India
• Fast connection speeds suitable for streaming
• Strong security measures in place
• Easy-to-use apps
• Great value for money

Check out the testing methodology section later in this article for more information about the criteria I considered.

Best VPNs for Hotstar

So, with all things considered, here are the best VPNs for Hotstar.

1. NordVPN

NordVPN’s blazing-fast server network consists of over 7,000 servers spread across 100+ countries (including India). Its fast connection speeds mean it is an excellent option for streaming, which is one of the reasons why it’s my number one choice for Hotstar. It’s great for people abroad who are trying to access services from back home.

NordVPN also has several security features that protect users, including 256-bit AES encryption, an app-specific kill switch, an automatic ad-blocker, a malware scanner, and protection against DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks. This is also supplemented by NordVPN’s strong privacy standards. This provider makes a point of not storing any logs and also accepts cryptocurrency payments. These payments don’t associate users’ names with payments, unlike traditional credit cards.

Users can download NordVPN on several different operating systems, so you have several options for installing Hotstar. These include macOS, iOS, Linux, Windows, and Android. Routers can also be manually configured to work with this service.

Users can connect 10 of their devices to this service simultaneously and the customer support team can be reached 24/7.

Pros:

• Fast connection speeds are great for streaming applications
• Strong security measures keep users protected
• 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 HOTSTAR:NordVPN is my number one choice. Its fast speeds and global network of over 7,000 servers makes it easy for users to access geographically restricted services. Comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.

2. Surfshark

Surfshark is hard to beat when it comes to finding a VPN on a budget. This provider has over 3,200 servers in 100+ countries, offers fast connection speeds, and offers strong security features. It also has no trouble unblocking top-tier streaming services.

The provider’s security measures are solid. It provides 256-bit AES encryption, protection against IPv6, DNS, and Web RTC leaks, and a kill switch. There is also an option for traffic scrambling which hides the fact that someone is using a VPN.

Surfshark apps can be downloaded for macOS, Linux, Windows, Android, and iOS. Some routers can have this VPN manually installed on them and users are allowed an unlimited number of connections. The customer service team is available 24/7 via the provided live chat, making it easy for customers from all time zones to get any technical help that they may need.

Pros:

• Can unblock many different services
• Fast connection speeds
• Strong security measures
• Unlimited number of connections
• Cryptocurrency payments are supported

Cons:

• Some servers are a little slow at times

BEST BUDGET VPN FOR HOTSTAR:Surfshark is very competitive in terms of its pricing. It can unblock many different services without hassle and allows you to connect an unlimited number of devices at once. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

3. IPVanish

IPVanish is a secure platform that has strong streaming speeds. For this reason, it has been endorsed by the Kodi community for several years. IPVanish can also unblock many different streaming services, such as Hotstar.

The security features included with this provider are critical for user safety. They include 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks. A traffic scrambling option is also provided.

IPVanish apps are available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. In addition, this service can also be manually set up on some routers and Linux. An unlimited number of simultaneous connections are allowed and the customer support team is available 24/7.

Pros:

• Fast connection speeds
• Unlimited number of connections allowed
• No logs are stored
• Great option for Kodi users and torrenters

Cons:

• Apps don’t work in China
• Some servers don’t work with Netflix

FAST STREAMING AND UNLIMITED CONNECTIONS:IPVanish is a secure platform with fast streaming speeds. Users also have the benefit of unlimited connections and there is a 30-day money-back guarantee included.

4. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is an excellent option for users who stream a lot, as it offers some of the fastest streaming speeds around. It has a network of 3,000+ servers in 105+ countries, making it a great option for users who need to access geographically restricted services, such as Hotstar and Amazon Prime Video. It is also very easy to use, making it one of the better choices for beginners.

The provider has strong security measures in place. These include 256-bit AES encryption, perfect forward secrecy, a kill switch, and protection against DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks. It also has a .onion site which can only be accessed via the anonymous TOR network and accepts cryptocurrency payments. In addition, this service stores no logs and eight simultaneous device connections are allowed.

Express VPN has apps available for iOS, Android, macOS, and Linux. It can also be installed on supported routers. The customer support team can be reached 24/7 via the provided live chat.

Pros:

• Fast connection speeds
• Can unblock top-tier streaming services
• .onion site and acceptance of cryptocurrency payments
• Strong security measures

Cons:

• More expensive than some other options
• Lack of customizability could be frustrating for advanced users

GREAT STREAMING OPTION FOR HOTSTAR:ExpressVPN offers very fast streaming speeds and prioritizes security and privacy, as seen by its .onion site and acceptance of cryptocurrency. This service comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

5. CyberGhost VPN

CyberGhost VPN has a huge number of servers, with over 11,500 servers in around 100+ countries. It has servers optimized for activities such as streaming.

There are also strong security measures in place. These include 256-bit AES encryption and a kill switch. This service also stores no logs and accepts cryptocurrency payments – these are more anonymous than traditional credit card payments.

CyberGhost apps can be downloaded for macOS, Windows, Linux, Android, and iOS. Some routers can also be manually configured to work with this service. The customer support team is available 24/7 and seven simultaneous connections are allowed.

Pros:

• Clients are easy to use
• 24/7 live chat service is provided
• Huge server network is spread across a large number of countries
• Strong security and privacy measures

Cons:

• Blocked in the UAE and China
• Torrenting and P2P may not work on all servers

LARGE SERVER NETWORK:CyberGhost VPN has a very large server network. It gives users lots of different choices for getting an alternative IP address. Strong security measures are in place and gives users a 30-day money-back guarantee.

6. Proton VPN

Proton VPN provides access to over 9,000 servers in 112+ countries and users can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously. It is a good option for streaming Hotstar thanks to decent connection speeds and servers in India.

The provider is a secure option for VPN users, with 256-bit AES encryption, no logs stored, leak protection, and a kill switch.

Proton VPN is available for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. Unfortunately, it doesn’t offer live chat support, but it does come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Pros:

• Strong security
• Servers in India
• Works for torrenting

Cons:

• No live chat support available
• Could be more user-friendly

SERVERS IN INDIA:Proton VPN can unblock many different services, has strong security, and is a great Linux option. It even offers a CLI app and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

7. Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access (PIA) has several customization options and allows users to change the app’s interface to their liking. In addition, this service makes use of the lightweight and fast WireGuard VPN protocol. This service can also unblock many different services without any issues and has servers in India, which is ideal for accessing Hotstar.

Strong security features are offered by PIA, including a kill switch, 256-bit AES encryption, and a strict no-logs policy.

PIA apps can be downloaded for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. Its customer service team can be reached via the provided live chat 24/7 and an unlimited number of connections are supported.

Pros:

• Strong security measures
• WireGuard VPN protocol supported (fast and efficient)
• Several customization options provided

Cons:

• Doesn’t work well in China
• App design could be improved

LIGHTWEIGHT AND FAST:PIA is lightweight and speedy, offering several customization options. It provides access to many restricted services, including Hotstar, and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

8. PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN is a smaller provider, with only just over 200 servers. However, its server network is spread across 60+ countries, including India. This means you can access streaming services from many different countries if you’re an expat. Overall, PrivateVPN provides fast streaming and connection speeds and can unblock streaming services such as Hotstar.

PrivateVPN has strong security measures in place, such as 256-bit AES encryption, protection from IPv6, WebRTC, and DNS leaks, and it stores no logs. On top of that, this provider accepts cryptocurrency payments for a greater level of anonymity.

Apps are provided for iOS, Android, Windows, and macOS. Plus, Linux devices and routers can be manually configured to work with this service. One thing to note is that customer service agents can only be reached during regular business hours. However, the quality of customer service is excellent. 10 devices can be connected on a single subscription simultaneously.

Pros:

• Unblocks Hotstar and many other streaming sites
• No logs are stored
• Works in China

Cons:

• Small server network
• Customer support isn’t available 24/7

PRIVACY-FOCUSED VPN:PrivateVPN is a privacy-focused VPN, with strong security features to keep you safe while online. It also provides access to a wide range of streaming platforms. This service comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Testing methodology: How I chose the best VPNs for Hotstar

There are many different VPN services available out there. However, not all of them are created equal. Here are some of the factors I considered when looking for the right VPNs for Hotstar:

• Servers: A wide selection of servers gives users lots of choice for bypassing restrictions. For Hotstar, servers in India are necessary. I chose VPNs with a global server network that includes servers in India.
• Ability to unblock services: Not all VPNs can unblock a vast amount of services. This is because some services employ measures that block VPNs. The best VPNs are able to get around these measures, so you can access your favorite streaming platforms and other online services, such as banking apps.
• Security: VPNs protect users’ privacy while they’re online, including on open WiFi networks. All of the VPNs I have recommended offer excellent security features.
• Speed: Speed is necessary for streaming without lag while watching your favorite shows on Hotstar. In general, it makes for a stress-free online experience.

You can find out more information about the strict VPN testing process I use here.

How to watch Hotstar with a VPN

Follow these simple steps to access Hotstar with a VPN service:

1. First, you’ll need to download a top-tier VPN that can bypass streaming services. I recommend using NordVPN since it has a proven track record of being able to unblock streaming services. It also has servers in India.
2. Next, you will have to sign up for a subscription with the service.
3. Now, you can install the application on the device you will be watching Hotstar on.
4. Connect to an India server.
5. Head to Hotstar and you should be able to watch the streaming service.

If this doesn’t work then you can try clearing your device’s cache and cookies. If this still doesn’t work, contact your VPN’s customer support team.

Best VPNs for Hotstar FAQs