Joyn is a streaming service offering live and on-demand services in Germany. However, when you’re traveling outside Germany, geo-restrictions prevent you from watching your favorite Joyn shows abroad.
Luckily, with the help of a VPN, subscribers to Joyn can access the service by connecting to a German VPN server. Connecting to a German VPN server gives you a German IP address. Therefore, it makes the viewer appear to be in Germany, giving them access to Joyn.
In addition to providing users with access to geographically restricted content, VPNs also protect users in the online environment, thanks to the change of IP address and strong security features, such as 256-bit AES encryption and a kill switch.
I have reviewed the best VPNs for watching Joyn abroad below. First, let’s take a look at how to get started.
How to watch Joyn abroad with a VPN
If you need to watch Joyn abroad, you will need to use a VPN. Follow these steps to get up and running with Joyn, regardless of your location.
How to watch Joyn outside Germany using a VPN:
- Subscribe to a top-tier VPN that is capable of unblocking Joyn. I recommend NordVPN since it boasts fast speeds, has secure servers in Germany, and offers excellent security features. Plus, it comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Download your VPN app to the device you will be using to watch Joyn. Some of the providers on this list allow you to connect as many devices as you like simultaneously.
- Fire up your VPN app, log in, and then connect to a server in Germany. This will give you an IP address in Germany.
- Open the Joyn app/website, and you should now be able to watch your favorite content.
If you still are unable to access Joyn, try clearing your cache/cookies. If this doesn’t work, try contacting your VPN’s customer support team.
Now you know how to watch Joyn abroad, let’s explore the best VPNs for the job in detail. If you’re in a rush, here’s a quick summary.
The best VPNs for watching Joyn:
- NordVPN: My number one choice for watching Joyn from abroad. It has 8,100+ servers in 126+ countries globally, including Germany. Streaming speeds are fast, and it has excellent security measures. Risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Surfshark: A great budget-friendly option that offers users over 3,200 servers in around 100 countries. Unlimited simultaneous connections.
- IPVanish: Allows users to stream without lag and has several security measures in place. No connection limit and a strict no-logs policy.
- ExpressVPN: A fast VPN that reliably unblocks all major streaming platforms. A good option for beginners, as it is easy to use.
- CyberGhost VPN: Boasts the largest global server network on this list, with a significant number of servers located in Germany. Solid privacy measures.
- PrivateVPN: A privacy-centric provider with a self-owned server network. A top pick for users prioritizing security above all else.
While looking for the best VPNs for Joyn, I followed these criteria to ensure that I found the best providers:
- Great unblocking ability, allowing access to services such as Joyn from anywhere in the world
- Strong server network with German servers
- Supports mobile and desktop apps
- Strong security and privacy measures
- Fast streaming speeds
- Easy to use
- Value for money
For more information about the criteria I used, check out the testing methodology section later in this article.
Best VPNs for Joyn
With that being said, here are the best VPN options for watching Joyn abroad:
1. NordVPN
NordVPN offers breakneck streaming speeds and an extensive network of over 8,100 servers in 126+ countries. This service’s fast speeds make it an excellent option for watching Joyn and other TV platforms without buffering. It is capable of unblocking various streaming services, including those from Germany and internationally, such as Netflix, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, and more.
In addition, NordVPN has strong security measures in place, including 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, an automatic ad-blocker, a malware scanner, and protection against WebRTC, IPv6, and DNS leaks. This service also doesn’t store logs and offers users the option to pay with cryptocurrency. This is a more anonymous form of payment than traditional credit cards, since users’ names aren’t associated with payments.
Users have the option of downloading NordVPN apps for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. Additionally, this service can be installed on supported routers. Users can connect 10 devices simultaneously with their subscription, and the customer support team is available 24/7 to answer any user queries.
Pros:
- Has a large server network
- Fast connection speeds
- Strong security measures
- No logs are stored
- Apps are available on many different platforms
Cons:
- The desktop app tends to be slow at times.
BEST VPN FOR JOYN:NordVPN is a great choice for Joyn users. It is fast, has a widespread server network, and decent security measures in place. Comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Surfshark
Surfshark is hard to beat when it comes to the affordability of its plans. It is affordable but still of high quality. It boasts an extensive network of over 3,200 servers across 100+ countries, enabling the unblocking of a wide variety of services and providing seamless access to streaming services like Joyn without lag or buffering.
The provider’s security/privacy measures include 256-bit AES encryption, protection against DNS/IPv6/WebRTC leaks, and a kill switch. Traffic scrambling is also available to ensure your VPN traffic doesn’t appear to be from a VPN, protecting you from potential scrutiny from entities such as internet service providers (ISPs). Surfshark also accepts cryptocurrency payments, enabling users to make anonymous payments for the service.
Surfshark provides apps for Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, and Android. Some routers can also be manually set up to work with the service. Users are also given an unlimited number of simultaneous connections, which is a great option for those who have multiple devices. The customer support team is available 24/7.
Pros:
- Very affordably priced
- Fast connection speeds
- Strong security measures
- Supports an unlimited number of connections
- Accepts cryptocurrency payments
Cons:
- Some servers can occasionally be slow
BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark is a great budget provider that doesn’t skimp on performance. It provides fast access to services like Joyn and offers very strong security and privacy features. 30-day money-back guarantee.
3. IPVanish
IPVanish is one of the top options on the market for Kodi users, thanks to its fast streaming speeds. Additionally, it can unblock various services, including Joyn, and is also a suitable option for torrenting.
IPVanish has strong security measures in place, including 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks. There is a traffic scrambling option, and it stores no logs. You can also choose to obfuscate OpenVPN traffic or block local traffic entirely.
Apps are available for macOS, Windows, iOS, and Android. In addition, this service can be manually installed on some routers and on Linux. It supports an unlimited number of connections. Live chat support is available 24/7.
Pros:
- Fast connection speeds
- Unlimited number of connections allowed
- No logs stored
- Great option for torrenters and Kodi users
Cons:
- Some servers don’t work with Netflix
- Apps don’t work in China
UNLIMITED CONNECTIONS:IPVanish is secure, and it offers fast streaming speeds. Users can also connect an unlimited number of devices. Solid option for streaming services like Joyn. 30-day money-back guarantee included.
4. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is an excellent choice for VPN users who stream frequently. Its server network provides fast connection speeds and comprises over 3,000 servers in more than 100 countries. It reliably unblocks most major streaming services, including Joyn, ARD, Netflix, and Disney+. It is also easy to use, making it a solid option for beginners.
The provider has strong security measures in place, including 256-bit AES encryption, perfect forward secrecy, a kill switch, and protection against WebRTC, IPv6, and DNS leaks. There is also a .onion site which is accessed via the anonymous TOR network. This allows users to browse for and sign up for subscriptions without revealing their identity. In addition, ExpressVPN accepts cryptocurrency payments, allowing users to pay for subscriptions anonymously.
ExpressVPN also offers apps for various operating systems. These include iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, and macOS. It can also be installed on supported routers. Its customer support team is available 24/7 via the live chat provided.
Pros:
- Fast connection speeds are available
- Can unblock many different streaming services
- .onion site and cryptocurrency payments supported
- Strong security measures
Cons:
- This service is more expensive than some of the other options on this list
- Lack of customizability may be frustrating for more advanced users
GOOD STREAMING VPN:ExpressVPN offers fast streaming speeds and strong security measures. It pays close attention to protecting users’ anonymity, as seen from its .onion website and acceptance of cryptocurrency. 30-day money-back guarantee.
5. CyberGhost VPN
CyberGhost VPN has the largest server network on this list, with over 11,500 servers in 100+ countries, including Germany. It also features servers optimized for various purposes, including streaming, gaming, and torrenting. It can unblock Joyn, ARD, and ProSieben.
Strong security measures include 256-bit AES encryption, DNS leak protection, and a kill switch. There’s also a smart rules tab that lets you decide when the VPN should activate automatically. This service stores no logs and accepts cryptocurrency payments.
CyberGhost apps are available on macOS, Windows, Linux, Android, and iOS. In addition, some routers can be manually set up to work with this provider. CyberGhost’s customer support team is available 24/7. This service supports up to seven simultaneous connections.
Pros:
- Apps are easy to use
- 24/7 live chat support
- Very large server network
- 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 has the biggest server network on this list, with 11,500+ in 100+ countries. Strict no-logs policy and accepts cryptocurrency payments for added anonymity. Generous 45-day money-back guarantee.
6. PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN has over 200 servers in 63+ countries. Despite the smaller server network, it’s still more than enough locations for most VPN users. It can unblock many different services and offers fast connection speeds, ideal for watching streaming services like Joyn without any hassle.
Security measures include 256-bit AES encryption and protection against leaks. No logs are stored, and the provider accepts cryptocurrency payments, allowing for greater anonymity. A Stealth mode lets you beat country-wide censorship. One of the few providers to work in China.
PrivateVPN is available for download on several platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. Some routers can be manually configured to work with this service. The customer service agents are only available during regular business hours, and PrivateVPN is a Swedish business.
Pros:
- Can unblock many different services
- Fast connection speeds
- Works in China
- No logs are stored
Cons:
- Small server network
- Customer support not available 24/7
PRIVACY-FOCUSED VPN:PrivateVPN is a strong option that is privacy-centric. It protects users’ information online and is also a solid option for streaming services like Joyn. It offers subscribers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Testing methodology: How I chose the best VPNs for watching Joyn abroad
There are numerous VPN options available on the market. However, not all of them were created equally.
Bearing this in mind, I used a strict set of criteria to ensure that I found the best options for watching Joyn abroad. Here are the factors I considered:
- Great unblocking ability: Not all VPNs are capable of unblocking streaming services. Streaming services often block VPNs, and only top-tier VPNs are capable of working around these blocks.
- Strong server network with German servers: To access Joyn and other streaming services, you’ll need a top-tier VPN with a wide range of servers globally, including those located in Germany.
- Supports mobile and desktop apps: When you’re streaming, most users will want to stream on both mobile and desktop devices. It is convenient for users to have access to a VPN that is available on these devices, ensuring they can access their preferred streaming service.
- Excellent security and privacy measures: Strong security and privacy measures protect users’ identities online and safeguard them against cyber threats, regardless of their location worldwide.
- Fast streaming speeds: Without a VPN that provides fast streaming speeds, you won’t be able to enjoy streaming services without buffering. The VPNs in this guide are all capable of streaming without lag or buffering.
- Easy to use and value for money: VPNs should be suitable for both beginners and experts, offering a range of features at a price that is fair. All the VPNs in this list provide money-back guarantees and discounted subscriptions.
For more information about the criteria I used, check out my VPN testing guide.
How to watch Joyn abroad FAQs
Can I use a free VPN with Joyn?
I don’t recommend using a free VPN with Joyn. Free VPNs typically lack the same infrastructure as paid options. This means that free VPNs usually have fewer servers and offer less bandwidth, which can result in buffering/hesitation when streaming.
Additionally, free VPNs are likely to have fewer security features in place compared to paid options. This can result in a lack of encryption and compromised security. Some free VPNs even store logs and have been known to sell user data for a profit.
For these reasons, I recommend using a paid VPN option since these providers are fast, secure, and offer users a wide range of server options and security features.
Is Joyn really available for free?
Yes, Joyn is available free of charge for a lot of the content. You can subscribe to a €6.99 per month subscription plan if you wish to access a broader range of content, remove ads, and gain access to six additional live channels.
Can I watch Joyn while outside of Germany?
Users can access live broadcasts like usual in Austria, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Belgium, Italy, or Luxembourg.
If you’re within the EU, you will also be able to continue using the service for a limited time. If you’re outside the EU, you will need to use a VPN to gain access to Joyn.
Is using a VPN safe?
Yes, using a VPN is safe. In fact, it’s safer to use the internet with a VPN than without a VPN. This is because you will get a different IP address when you connect to a VPN server, masking your identity. In addition, a VPN’s encryption will protect you from cyber threats.
