Best Free VPN for Firestick (& How to Set Up Firestick VPN 2024)

by
Frederik Lipfert
Dr. Frederik Lipfert Founder, vpncheck
Updated on 23 May 2022

Foreword: Best Free VPN

You’re all excited to watch a TV series on Amazon Prime. You made some popcorn, got in your comfy wear, and turned on your Firestick. The minute you clicked the title, you realized the series wasn’t available for your location. You’re not alone.

Firestick can’t always give you access to what you want to watch despite having a massive content library. That’s because most streaming services impose geo-restrictions. So, the user will be able to see only a selected library of content. Don’t get disheartened. A VPN can help you access content from all corners of the world. Of course, you would need an internet connection.

A reliable VPN for Firestick can help you bypass all the restrictions and help you watch movies that aren’t available in your country. For instance, if you want to watch the Big Bang Theory in the States, you can switch to a Canadian server. Moreover, VPN will also protect your data by masking your identity.

Now that you’ve understood the importance of VPN, you should know that not all VPN services work well with Firestick, especially if you use a free one. Some offer subpar service, while others just aren’t user-friendly. At the same time, some can easily be blocked even before you start using them. Fortunately, this article is your comprehensive guide to setting up a secure VPN for Firestick.

Tips for Choosing the Right VPN for Firestick

Before we list the best free VPNs available, we must clear out the filters we will use to pick a VPN service for Firestick.

  1. Is it safe to use? Safety is the first and foremost feature we’re looking for in a VPN service. Free VPN services have often been questioned for breaching user security and selling user data without their consent.While writing this article, we’ve decided to pick the best VPN services that strictly maintain security standards, even if you opt for a free version. However, we recommend you to use a premium version to get an even higher level of security.
  2. Terms and Conditions – While complex VPN services are available, they come with their own set of conditions. For instance, some free VPN services put a data limit, while others won’t connect to the best servers available. You will require a VPN service that lets you connect to any country you wish without hampering your connection speed.
  3. Does your VPN track activity? Well, ideally, a reliable VPN does not breach user trust. However, there have been instances where free VPN providers have used their user data to make profits. Therefore, we’re only considering VPNs that can ensure a zero logs policy.

Top 5 Free and Safe VPNs

Now that you know what you should look for in a VPN, let’s take a look at the best free VPNs available. 

1. Hotspot Shield

Hotspot Shield Homepage

Hotspot Shield is the best choice for those looking for a completely free VPN service for Firestick. It provides a good connection speed amongst all the free VPNs present. It is also easy to navigate. Hotspot Shield stands out because it offers P2P file sharing and torrenting – both without any conditions. Moreover, it is compatible with any Android, iOS, or PC.

However, Hotspot Shield has its drawbacks. The free plan offers a fast connection but has a 500Mb monthly data limit. This limit isn’t good enough to stream any movie or a film in high quality.

2. PrivateVPN

 

Private VPN Homepage

Private VPN is different from other free VPNs listed here in the article. It isn’t completely free. Private VPN allows people to test out its application for free for a week. That means you can use a premium VPN service without paying anything. There are no hidden costs or any restraints during the trial period.

PrivateVPN has over 80 servers globally which it offers along with unlimited bandwidth for a fast internet speed. Moreover, you can use it on 6 devices at one time. The best part is PrivateVPN has a zero-log policy. You will surely be tempted to purchase a premium version once you try it. It surely isn’t a completely free VPN service you’re looking for, but it’s definitely something you should test.

3. Windscribe

Windscribe

The third VPN service on our list is Windscribe. Windscribe comes in both free and paid versions. Its paid version gives access to 600 servers in 50 countries without any restrictions. Moreover, it also offers exclusive “Windflix” servers to its premium members.

Windscribe’s free version is a good choice for those looking to stream from a light app. It is compatible with almost all streaming platforms. It also provides extensions for several browsers, including Firefox, Opera, and Chrome. Further, it gives access to servers from 10 countries. Moreover, it also has a monthly data limit of 10GB, which is good compared to other VPNs.

Benefits aside, Windscribe doesn’t offer a good internet speed. While its average internet speed doesn’t fluctuate, it isn’t suited for streaming anything. You might have to wait for the movie to buffer every now and then, which kind of ruins the mood.

4. Hide.me

Hide.me homepage

Hide.me is yet another free VPN service that’s worth trying. It won’t be wrong to say that it isn’t great. However, it isn’t bad either.  Hide.me is perfect for those who stream content occasionally. It is compatible with most streaming platforms. Moreover, the free version has added support for some of the best VPN protocols, including SoftEther, SSTP, PPTP, L2TP/IPsec.

That being said, we can’t overlook its disadvantages. Hide.me has a 2GB monthly data limit. Additionally, its internet connection speeds fluctuate a lot. In fact, a few users were complaining about connection drops.

5. ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN Homepage

ProtonVPN is among the most compatible VPNs out there. It not only works well with Firestick but is best suited for all devices. ProtonVPN is a preferred free VPN service because it doesn’t have any data limit. This means users can use unlimited data without keeping a data count on their streaming plans.

Like any other free VPN, Proton VPN has some flaws. First off, it offers a slow internet connection speed. On top of that, free users can connect with only three countries. So there’s a high probability that you won’t get access to everything.

By now, you must’ve understood that free VPNs aren’t a great choice. Let’s draw a clear comparison between free and paid VPNs to help you make the right decisions.

How Paid VPNs are Better Than Free VPNs

Data Security

At first glance, free VPNs may entice you into signing up by promising a range of options – without actually having to pay for it. However, remember the saying – “If you’re not paying for the product, you are the product.”

Believe it or not, there is always a hidden cost involved in using a free VPN. In most cases, it is your personal data. Some Free VPNs may compromise your privacy and sell your data, which is then further mined by big corporate houses.

Streaming Restrictions

Free VPNs can’t play hide and seek with streaming services. VPN service providers have to use a new IP address to stay unblocked. Since most Free VPNs cannot do so, they are easily discoverable by streaming services. Once discovered, such providers are usually blocked by streaming services. So there’s a high chance that the VPN you choose won’t play your favorite movie on Netflix.

Limited Servers

Moreover, most free VPNs may offer you few server options – sometimes only 2 or 3. So you won’t be connected to your choice of country and stream seamlessly.

Not just servers, some free VPN services also have a monthly data limit set for their users. For instance, Hide.me offers only 2GB a month which may not be enough for people who stream movies daily. At the same time, others offer unlimited data but can’t promise high speed.

Now you have a fair idea of why you should invest in a premium VPN membership. Let’s also have a look at the best paid VPN available. These VPNs are tried and tested by us and hence are secure, offer high-quality service, and are also super easy to use.

How to Install and Use Best paid VPNs for Firestick

Choosing the best VPN for Firestick is no piece of cake. You will have to research well, draw comparisons and assess all the pros and cons. This time, you’re in for a treat because we have expertise in helping our readers decide what the best VPN service is due to the opinions we got from industry experts.

The following list will take you through the best paid VPNs for Firestick right now. We’ve ranked these VPN services based on their speed, streaming capabilities, additional features, and user interface. So sit back, relax and read thoroughly.

1. ExpressVPN: Our Top Choice

Sign up for ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is truly the #1 trusted leader in the VPN industry. It is the best VPN service you’d find for Firestick or any other streaming service. It follows a zero logs policy and uses volatile memory (RAM) to run its server. We personally like ExpressVPN because it ensures the privacy of its users. Since it is based in the British Virgin Islands, ExpressVPN doesn’t have to adhere to any privacy-invasive laws by the UK or the US government. This way, its premium members can protect their data.

Not just that, ExpressVPN constantly optimizes its server network to offer the fastest speeds while using Netflix, Hulu, Disney Plus, HBO Now, DAZN, and more. Moreover, there are no streaming restrictions. So if you use ExpressVPN to stream from Netflix, you get access to over 15 libraries.

ExpressVPN is compatible with all Android, iOS, Linux, and Microsoft devices. Moreover, it also works with devices that don’t support a VPN like Smart TV or a gaming console. All you have to do is use ExpressVPN with its Smart DNS.

How to Install ExpressVPN on Firestick?

Before installing, the first thing you should do is get a subscription.

ExpressVPN has several packages, and you can compare and choose any one of them as per your needs. We recommend the annual subscription, which comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. So, you will get your money back if you are unhappy with this VPN service.

Here’s a snapshot of all the plans you can subscribe to:

ExpressVPN Subscription Plans

Follow this step-by-step guide to install ExpressVPN on your Firestick.

Step 1: Grab your Firestick remote. Turn it on and head to the home screen. Select Find and go to the Search option.

Search Function on Screen

Step 2: Type ExpressVPN.
(Tip: You also use voice assistance to find the application instead of typing manually)
type ExpressVPN

Step 3: Once you start typing, you will see ExpressVPN in the suggested text. Click on it.
Amazon Firestick Express VPN highlighted on home screen

Step 4: Click the download button.
Let’s wait till the download process is over.
ExpressVPN Download Screen

Step 5: Next, go to the ExpressVPN app and select the sign-in option.
(Tip: If you didn’t subscribe to ExpressVPN before, now is the right time.)

Use your credentials. (These are the same credentials you used while getting an ExpressVPN premium membership)
ExpressVPN Login INterface

Step 6: Now, click on the big power button that you see in the center of the screen.
ExpressVPN home screen with Connect button highlighted

That’s all. You’re now connected to the ExpressVPN server. Easy, right? Well, now you can stream anything you want.

ExpressVPN menu with the on/off button highlighted

2. NordVPN

And, users enjoy impressive download and upload speeds that rarely ever drop significantly.

Next on your list is yet another best VPN for Firestick: NordVPN. It’s a great alternative to ExpressVPN because it offers a range of features, including some popular ones such as Onion over Tor, Leak protection, Smart DNS, obfuscation, split tunneling, ad-blocker, and more.

It is also amongst the handful of VPNs that Netflix hasn’t blocked. Registered in Panama, NordVPN offers the same privacy assurance as ExpressVPN. Moreover, it also strictly follows a zero-log policy. With 5200+ servers, it has one of the largest server networks. These servers are spread across every continent, offering users advantages no matter where they are. Moreover, you can connect up to 5 devices while using NordVPN.

How to set up NordVPN on Firestick?

Follow these simple steps to install NordVPN on your Firestick.

Step 1: Turn on your Firestick and select Find. Go to Search.
Firestick home page with prominent Find and Search buttons

Step 2: You will now see a virtual keyboard. Type NordVPN.

You don’t have to type it all. Once you start typing, Firestick will suggest some options. Click on it.

Step 3: Select the NordVPN app.
Search results for NordVPN on Firestick

Step 4: You will now see a Download option (somewhere in the middle-right of your screen). Select it and wait for the app to install.
NordVPN installation option on Firestick

How to set up NordVPN on Firestick:

Now that the Firestick has finished downloading NordVPN, let’s set it up. Click on open. The newly installed VPN will now launch.

 

1. Next, click Log in.

Sign In option on NordVPN

2. NordVPN will give you three options to sign in:

  1. Log into your account on your computer and type the code.
  2. Scan the QR code (which is super easy and quick).
  3. Enter email manually.

Sign In Page on NordVPN

3. Next, you will see a Connect Now button. Select it to connect to a VPN server. You can also use the search option to look for a preferred server.
NordVPN connection button

If you want to customize your VPN connection, scroll down to the bottom of the page and choose Settings.

NordVPN Settings options

There you can change the protocol or turn on CyberSec. Well, that’s all. You are all set to use NordVPN.

3. Surfshark

Surfshark Homepage

Surfshark is the most affordable paid VPN service on the list. You have to pay a little over $2 to access premium features, such as kill switch, obfuscation, Private DNS and leak protection, Smart DNS, and split tunneling, among other features.

Just like ExpressVPN, Surfshark assures user privacy. It has a zero-log policy, and its servers run on RAM. Moreover, it offers access to 18 Netflix libraries, including Canada, the US, the UK, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, and more. You can stream films and TV series uninterrupted on HBO Now, DAZN, iPlayer, Disney+, and other streaming services. The best part is you can simultaneously connect to as many devices as you want!

And, if you are still not happy, you can get your money back in 30-days.

How to Install Surfshark VPN on Firestick?

Follow these steps to set up Surfshark VPN on Firestick.

Step 1: Turn on your Firestick and go to the main screen. Look for Find and then select Search.
Search Function on Screen

Step 2: Now, type Surfshark.
Searching Surfshark VPN on Firestick

Search results for Surfshark VPN on Firestick

Step 3:  Select the Download option.
Surfshark VPN installation option on Firestick

Let’s wait for the download to finish. Done? Sign in to the app using the following steps.

How to set up Surfshark on Firestick?

You will see an open button once the download is finished. Select Open. You can also choose to open the VPN from the app section.

Step 1: Launch the app and click on Log in.
Surfshark app for window version, log in button and connect manually button highlighted

Surfshark gives you two options to sign in to the app: using your mobile phone or manually typing your email and password. Feel free to use whichever is more convenient for you.
Surfshark Log In options

Step 2. You will land on the home screen. You can get access to any server by using the connect button.
Screenshot of Surfshark locations server tab

You can also choose a preferred server from the left side of the screen. To do that, either scroll down the screen or type a country’s name.
vpncheck-surfshark-review-login-panel

You can also customize your VPN connection from settings. Features like Kill Switch or Enable Protocol Selection improve your experience with the VPN. In case you need them, Clean Web and Whitelister options are located under the features button on the left menu.
Surfshark VPN settings

4. CyberGhost

 

CyberGhost Homepage

CyberGhost is one the safest VPN service providers available currently. It offers a powerful and perhaps one of the fastest connection speeds of all VPNs. It has some fantastic features, including an automatic kill switch, DNS and IP leak protection, 256-bit AES encryption, and of course, a strict no-logs policy.

Using CyberGhost, you can access 6800+ servers spread across 89 countries. Moreover, you can connect to seven devices simultaneously. It has dedicated servers for all streaming apps, enabling it to bypass any restrictions easily.

CyberGhost is based in Romania and doesn’t have to follow any data retention laws. Moreover, it uses protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN to offer secure connections. It has special “No Spy” servers for users who are a little more protective of their privacy. These are privately owned servers that CyberGhost access, control, and manage themselves.

Don’t believe us? Get a free 24-hour trial without giving any payment information (Yes, you can do that.) You have to pay $2.25 a month to get a premium membership, and you get a 45-day money-back guarantee.

How to Install CyberGhost on Firestick?

Follow these steps to install CyberGhost on Firestick.

Step 1: Turn on your Firestick and go to the main screen. Look for Find and then select Search.
Search Function on Screen

Step 2: Type CyberGhost.
Searching CyberGhost on Firestick

Step 3:  Choose the Download option.
Search results for CyberGhost on Firestick

Let’s wait for the download to finish. Now, sign in to the app by clicking on the Open button.

How to Sign in and Use CyberGhost?

Now that you’ve launched the app, let’s do some exploring.

Step 1: CyberGhost will allow you to sign in using two ways. You can sign into their official website and enter the code displayed on the screen or manually log in using your email and password.
Sign In option on CyberGhost

Step 2: After you sign in, you can click on the connect button (It’s hard to miss this button, it’s huge and occupies almost half the screen.)
CyberGhost main screen Firestick

If you want to connect to a preferred server, click on it (right below the Connect to option)
CyberGhost servers

Moreover, you can also go to the settings located on the right corner of your screen to enable options such as content blocker, VPN protocol, split tunneling, and more.
CyberGhost settings options

That’s all. You can now enjoy uninterrupted streaming using CyberGhost.

IPVanish

a screenshot of IPVanish’s home page on desktop featuring their use of WireGuard and a 59% savings in a yearly plan

This list won’t be complete without mentioning IPVanish. It is one of the first VPNs to have a presence on Firestick and, so far, one of the best, too. It is one of the few VPNs to manage, access, and control their entire server network without any third-party intervention.

Moreover, it uses AES 256-bit and other top-of-of-the-class encryption standards. So there’s no question left on security and stability. It has a strong 1900+ VPN server network in over 75 locations globally.

IPVanish is a US-based VPN provider. However, that doesn’t let it compromise on privacy. Like other VPNs, it also follows a zero-log policy. It provides advanced VPN features, including Scramble, kill switch, and leak protection.

IPVanish is compatible with Netflix. While it doesn’t have any dedicated Netflix servers, it offers a pretty decent service to users. However, there’s one downside – it doesn’t work with any other popular legitimate streaming service except Netflix. Users can use IPVanish on 10 devices simultaneously. Just like ExpressVPN, IPVanish also has a 30-day money-back guarantee.

How to Install IPVanish on Firestick?

Follow these steps to install IPVanish on Firestick.

Step 1: Turn on your Firestick and go to the main screen. Look for Find and then select Search.
Search Function on Screen

Step 2: Now, type IPVanish. (Don’t type the entire word. Type a letter or two and wait for suggestions. Select it.)
Searching Ipvanish on Firestick

IPVanish VPN will be the first option you see. Click it.
Search results for IPVanish on Firestick

Step 3:  Look for the Download option. Select it.
IPVanish installation option on Firestick

Let’s wait for the download to finish. Now, Sign in to the app using the following steps.

How to set up IPVanish and connect to a server?

Launch the application on Firestick by clicking on the open button. You can also open it by going to the apps menu. Once you start:

  1. IPVanish will ask you to login into your account. Type your email and password to sign in.
    Logging in to IPVanish
  2. You will see the home screen now. Look for the connect option (that’s the first option on the left side of your screen.)
    IPVanish on Firestick main screen
  3. Click on the connect button, and the app will choose the best server to connect you to.
    IPVanish settings options
  4. You can also choose the server before connecting. Select Country and then select the city you wish to get connected to.

Now, let’s customize your connection. Go to Settings (you can find the option on the top-right corner of your screen)

Here you can enable scramble, select protocol, and use split tunneling. That’s all. You can now enjoy uninterrupted streaming using IPVanish.

That’s a wrap

Phew! That was a pretty comprehensive read. However, it was necessary to compare all the best VPN services available to make an intelligent decision. The guide above has all the information you need to install and set up the best Firestick VPN. Now you can enjoy your favorite TV series, movie, and documentaries without worrying about geo-restrictions or security-related issues.