Are you a STARZ subscriber hitting digital restrictions when you try to access your favorite shows outside the US or Puerto Rico? Despite having a paid subscription, your access to STARZ doesn’t follow you across borders. We understand the frustration of being cut off from your preferred entertainment, especially when you want to unwind while traveling.
But there’s good news. After thorough research and rigorous testing, we have pinpointed a straightforward solution by using a reliable Virtual Private Network (VPN). By securing a US IP address through a VPN, you can maintain uninterrupted access to STARZ’s content. In addition, you will embrace enhanced security and privacy for all of your devices.
VPNs do more than unblock content; they offer the added benefit of encrypting your internet connection, safeguarding your online activities from prying eyes. With our carefully selected list of the best VPNs for STARZ, you will enjoy your favored series and movies from any location.
In the following sections, we will go into each recommended VPN provider, giving you a snapshot of their strengths. If time is of the essence, below is a summarized overview of our top picks tailored to help you resume watching STARZ in no time.
The best VPNs for STARZ
- NordVPN: Our #1 choice for accessing STARZ from anywhere. Blazing fast speeds and bypasses blocks with ease. Easy to use and strong privacy features. Military-grade encryption. 30-day money-back guarantee.
TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for Starz. - Surfshark: Solid budget pick for accessing STARZ from anywhere. Reliably unblocks restricted content. Uses strong encryption and doesn’t keep logs.
- ExpressVPN: Reliable, consistent speeds make for an enjoyable streaming experience from anywhere. Unblocks STARZ and most other popular streaming platforms. Solid security and privacy.
- CyberGhost: Great value with some of the fastest speeds in our tests and a vast global network of over 9,000 servers. Easy to set up and get going.
- IPVanish: Good speeds, secure, and a favorite with Kodi users for the easy-to-install app. Unlimited device connections.
- PrivateVPN: Impressive speeds, security, and privacy. Up-and-coming network with reliable unblocking abilities. Works well with STARZ.
Many VPNs claim to work with Starz but most (especially free VPNs) are often blocked.
We regularly test the top 70 VPNs with all major streaming sites and this list only includes VPNs which reliably unblock Starz and offer a full money-back guarantee, allowing you to try them risk-free.
WANT TO TRY THE TOP VPN FOR STARZ RISK FREE?
NordVPN is offering a fully-featured risk-free 30-day trial if you sign up at this page. You can use the VPN rated #1 for STARZ without limits or restrictions for a month – great if you want to watch it on vacation.
There are no hidden terms—just contact support within 30 days if you decide NordVPN isn't right for you and you'll get a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here.
The best VPNs for STARZ: Our hands-on review
We’ve tested and compared the most important features of the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for STARZ.
No value | NordVPN | Surfshark | ExpressVPN | CyberGhost | IPVanish | PrivateVPN |
Website | NordVPN.com | Surfshark.com | ExpressVPN.com | Cyberghost.com | IPVanish.com | PrivateVPN.com | STARZ reliability | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | Streaming reliability | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Good | Good | Good | Streaming services | STARZ Netflix BBC iPlayer Amazon Prime Sky Go HBO Go | STARZ Netflix BBC iPlayer Amazon Prime Sky Go HBO Go | STARZ Netflix BBC iPlayer Amazon Prime Sky Go HBO Go | STARZ Netflix BBC iPlayer Amazon Prime | STARZ Netflix Amazon Prime | STARZ Netflix | Devices Supported | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVs, Routers | Windows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, Android | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV | Avg Speed (Mbps) | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 74 Mbps |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Best deal (per month) | $3.09 Up to 73% off 2 year plans + 3 EXTRA months | $2.19 Save 86% on a 2 year Starter plan + 3 months free | $6.67 SAVE: 49% + 3 months free | $2.19 SAVE 83% on the 2 year plan + 2 months free! | $2.19 SAVE 83% on the 2 yr plan | $2.00 Save 85% on a one year plan + 24-months free |
The best VPNs for watching STARZ anywhere
The web is aflush with VPN services, but not all of them offer a premium product that’s designed to work with HD video. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the best VPNs that work with STARZ flawlessly. They’ve been analyzed on the following factors:
- Speed and stability of service, with a particular focus on streaming HD video
- A large number of server locations in the United States to access STARZ
- Ability to unblock a range of geo-restricted content
- Strong encryption parameters so your location remains hidden at all times
- Apps for Android and iOS
- Provision for multiple simultaneous connections
- Ease of use and knowledgeable customer support
You can read more about how we test and rank the VPNs we recommend in our methodology section below. For now, let’s take a look at the ones that made the cut.
Here is our list of the best VPNs for STARZ:
1. NordVPN
Oct 2024 Unblocks STARZTested Oct 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- FireTV
Website: www.NordVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
NordVPN is our top choice for a STARZ VPN. It offers a bunch of customizable options in its app, including servers specifically designed to cater to streaming HD video. It outperforms all competitors in our speed tests, making it ideal for streaming. The company itself has been around for over a decade, which helps it cater to users across the spectrum.
Panama-based NordVPN currently offers more than 8,200 servers in 111 countries. The United States has the largest tally, with almost 2,000. This service is proven to work with Netflix and a host of other video streaming services, and you’ll have no problem trying to access STARZ. Furthermore, each server record shows the latency and server load to help you make up your mind as to which one to connect to.
NordVPN is an example of a completely logless VPN service, which means there’s zero retention of user data. All internet traffic is encrypted via 256-bit AES and 2,048-bit DH keys. DNS leak protection is enabled. These robust parameters mean your location will remain hidden at all times.
Apps for both Android and iOS are available, as well as a desktop client for Windows and MacOS. It’s also possible to set up the app on Linux computers and routers. A single subscription grants access to ten simultaneously connected devices, but if you’re connected to a VPN-enabled router, then that will count as just one.
Pros:
- Consistently fast HD streaming speeds from abroad
- Almost 2,000 servers in the US can unblock the most popular streaming sites
- A trusted provider that makes no compromises on security and privacy
- Strict no-logs policy ideal for privacy-conscious users
- Easy-to-use mobile apps
- 24/7 customer support via live chat
Cons:
- The desktop app is a little cumbersome
Our score:
BEST VPN FOR STARZ:NordVPN is our top choice. It has incredible speeds and works well for streaming STARZ content. Allows up to 10 simultaneous devices. Keeps no logs. A 30-day money-back guarantee makes it risk-free.
Read our full review of NordVPN.
2. Surfshark
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.Surfshark.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Surfshark is our top-budget choice VPN for accessing STARZ from anywhere. This provider has an ample network of more than 3,200 servers in over 100 countries. It is known for its fast streaming speeds and can access multiple Netflix libraries, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and more, so STARZ should pose no issues. Surfshark’s NoBorders mode ensures you can access the free web anywhere in the world, including in countries like China.
This VPN employs military-grade encryption with perfect forward secrecy to keep your data secure. A kill switch and leak protection boost security even further. Surfshark has a strict policy of keeping no logs. In addition, you’ll find lots of security extras, including split tunneling, automatic wifi protection, and double VPN servers.
A big bonus with this VPN is there’s no limit to the number of devices you can connect simultaneously. This makes it great for sharing among family members or roommates.
Desktop apps are available for Linux, Windows, and MacOS, and mobile versions can be downloaded for iOS or Android. You can configure the VPN with select routers. Need help? Live chat support is available around the clock.
Pros:
- Unlimited connections
- Suite of strong security extras
- Keeps data private with no logs
- Around-the-clock support
- Easy-to-use apps
Cons:
- Occasional slow server
Our score:
BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark is an excellent budget-friendly alternative. It’s great at unblocking and doesn’t skimp on security features. No connection limit means you’re free to stream from anywhere. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Check out our full Surfshark review.
3. ExpressVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.ExpressVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ExpressVPN easily accesses the content library from STARZ, Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, ESPN, Fox, Sky, and more. It’s fast and ships with military-grade encryption. There’s a wide selection of servers to choose from. More than 3,000 servers are spread across 94 countries, with the United States hosting a large portion of them.
Encryption standards are among the best in the business. The company leverages OpenVPN with 256-bit AES-CBC as default, along with HMAC authentication and perfect forward secrecy. These help keep your data secure, away from any prying eyes.
ExpressVPN has a policy of retaining minimal information about users. Some of the details it records are the servers people connect to and the dates they log on. Individual IP addresses are not recorded, and all stored logs are actually used to improve the quality of the service.
A single subscription grants access to five devices at the same time. Apps for both Android and iOS are available, as well as desktop clients for Windows and MacOS. ExpressVPN also offers an app for a few select wifi routers; this means all devices connected to the said router will automatically benefit from a VPN-encrypted internet connection, even if the native app isn’t installed on each one. Users can opt to purchase a router with a VPN pre-installed directly from ExpressVPN’s online store.
Pros:
- Fast secure, and stable connections ideal for HD streaming
- Servers in 20 US cities can unblock geo-restricted content from almost anywhere
- High-grade encryption, security, and privacy throughout
- Apps for Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS, and Linux
- Complete privacy – no logs of personal data kept
Cons:
- More expensive than other providers on this list
- Streaming servers aren’t labeled
Our score:
SOLID AND RELIABLE:ExpressVPN is a fast and reliable choice. Unblocks STARZ and all major online streaming services. Excellent digital security with 256-bit AES encryption. Keeps no browser logs. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Here’s our review of ExpressVPN.
4. CyberGhost
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.Cyberghost.com
Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS
CyberGhost is in the top tier of VPN services, with a large server selection, a focus on streaming media content, and resolute encryption. They offer a vast server network numbering over 9,000 servers in 90+ countries, with the United States hosting almost 1,500 of them. CyberGhost works with most streaming services, including STARZ, Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. Speeds are consistently among the fastest we’ve tested, and HD video streaming is a breeze. This service comes with a bunch of add-ons, including an ad blocker, anti-malware defense, and anti-tracking at no additional charge.
All traffic routed via its servers is secured by 256-bit AES encryption on the OpenVPN protocol by default. An internet kill switch and perfect forward secrecy are included. The company’s registration in Romania means it’s not required to hold any sort of data on users, as local laws are staunchly pro-privacy.
A paid subscription grants simultaneous access to five devices on a single plan. The company supports both Android and iOS, and there’s native software for Windows and MacOS, too. Manual configuration is possible for Linux and a selection of routers.
Pros:
- Our tests revealed above-average HD streaming speeds
- No issues streaming STARZ US Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and more
- Solid privacy and security features enabled by default
- Apps are easy to install and use – a good option for beginners
- 45-day money-back guarantee
Cons:
- Better suited to beginners than power users
- Doesn’t work reliably in China
Our score:
BEGINNER-FRIENDLY:CyberGhost is easy to use. A solid performer with a vast server network, great speeds, and strong encryption. Reliably unblocks STARZ, Amazon Prime, and other streaming sites. Comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full review of CyberGhost.
5. IPVanish
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.IPVanish.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
IPVanish consistently pegs fast speeds and ships with rigid encryption standards. It doesn’t cost an arm and a leg either and will do its job efficiently with little to no buffering during your STARZ video playback. The provider offers around 2,000 servers spread across 75 locations worldwide, with hundreds in the US. It works seamlessly with a bunch of streaming services, including BBC iPlayer, HBO Now, Amazon Prime Video, and Sling TV.
Continuing in the same vein as NordVPN, IPVanish sticks to an internal policy of zero data storage. That should please privacy enthusiasts. The provider opts to secure internet traffic via 256-bit encryption on the OpenVPN protocol by default, SHA512 authentication, and a DHE-RSA 2,048-bit key exchange with perfect forward secrecy. The latter feature means that even if your account is compromised, all past web sessions will remain encrypted and out of reach from hackers. An internet kill switch is also included, which acts as an additional online security layer.
IPVanish allows unlimited devices to connect concurrently, which is the highest number on this list. This whittles down the cost to an extremely manageable sum. This service is popular with Kodi users because it enables them to download the Android APK directly to their device. The interface is also remote-control friendly for Kodi devices that lack a keyboard and mouse.
Apps are available for both Android and iOS, and there’s desktop software for Windows and MacOS. IPVanish can be configured manually with Linux and some routers.
Pros:
- Operates a network of around 2,000 servers in 75+ locations worldwide
- Keeps no logs whatsoever
- Very fast speeds
- Popular with torrenters and Kodi users
Cons:
- Customer support is a little slow
- Based in the US – a 5 Eyes member
Our score:
FAST AND RELIABLE:IPVanish has a large network of servers. The uncongested network achieves good speeds. Strong security and online privacy features make IPVanish a solid choice for STARZ. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full review of IPVanish.
6. PrivateVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.PrivateVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
PrivateVPN was originally set up to cater to torrenters, so it’s a good choice for users looking for fast speeds. It has a smaller list of servers than the other recommended VPN providers, but there are plenty of options for the United States.
This service offers the ability to watch video streams easily. Some of the geo-restricted media providers it works with are Netflix, BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, and more. Unblocking STARZ won’t be a problem. Despite having fewer servers, PrivateVPN is actually on par with all the previously mentioned VPNs when it comes to performance as well as security.
Its choice of encryption standards is amply robust. This provider uses 256-bit AES encryption along with perfect forward secrecy on the OpenVPN protocol. PrivateVPN doesn’t store any user logs or engage in data mining.
Apps are available for Android, iOS, Windows, and MacOS. Linux and router configuration is also possible. A single connection allows for ten devices to connect simultaneously.
Pros:
- Streaming speeds are good enough for HD
- Has a solid reputation for unblocking geo-restricted content from the US and UK
- Our tests revealed impressive speeds
Cons:
- Fewer servers to choose from than other providers higher on this list
- Support staff are good, but only operate during European business hours
Our score:
GREAT SPEED:PrivateVPN is a good family choice. Allows up to 10 devices. A great all-rounder with excellent privacy and high speeds. It also unblocks most streaming sites and is suitable for torrenting. Lacks 24/7 support. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full review of PrivateVPN.
Our Methodology: How we chose the best VPNs for STARZ
Unfortunately, not every VPN is capable of accessing STARZ abroad or keeping your traffic safe while doing so. Our team has been researching VPNs for years and has created an in-depth testing process designed to make sure we only recommend the best of the best. Here are a few key features that the top VPNs for STARZ had to have to make our list:
- Large networks: STARZ is only available in the US or Puerto Rico, so VPNs have to have servers in one or both of those locations. Additionally, to give you the greatest flexibility, we prioritize providers with servers in a wide range of countries for accessing a variety of region-locked content.
- Impressive speeds: Slow connections cause long loading times, low-quality video, and intermittent connection drops. That’s why we regularly perform hundreds of VPN speed tests, eliminating any services that are too slow or unreliable for regular usage.
- Powerful security features: To maintain your privacy, a VPN must offer uncrackable encryption, leak protection, a no-logging policy, and a kill switch. Naturally, we prefer those that go even further (for instance, with a stealth mode or third-party audit).
- A high degree of versatility: Your VPN needs to be suitable for more than just streaming. That’s why we analyze performance during other day-to-day tasks like gaming, torrenting, and video-calling as well.
- Beginner-friendly apps: We strongly prefer VPNs that are newcomer-friendly. This means they must have intuitive apps for all major platforms and, ideally, 24/7 live chat, unlimited connections, and well-designed settings menus.
- Affordable prices: We’ll never recommend a VPN that charges more than it’s worth. Additionally, we hunt down deals, discounts, money-back guarantees, and free trials so that you can try services with as little risk as possible.
Want to know more? Check out our full VPN testing methodology post to find out exactly how we put providers through their paces.
Read more STARZ articles here:
How to stream STARZ abroad with a VPN
VPNs might seem complicated at first, but they’re really quite easy to use. Just follow these steps to watch your usual STARZ content while traveling abroad:
- Start by signing up for a suitable VPN provider (we recommend NordVPN)
- Download and install the VPN on any device you use for streaming
- Log in and choose a server in the US to gain the US IP address necessary to access STARZ.
- Now, just visit STARZ, and you should be able to use the service as normal.
- If not, we’ve always found clearing your cookies and reloading the page solves most problems. Failing that, get in touch with your VPN’s support team for further assistance
How to operate STARZ on Amazon Fire Stick, Chromecast, Android Box
Other than PCs, Macs, iOS devices, and Android devices, STARZ is also compatible with devices such as Apple TV, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire Stick, Xbox One, and some LG Smart TVs.
Not all these devices offer native support for VPN apps. This means you can’t download software from their app stores and log in with your VPN credentials. However, workarounds exist.
One of the ways to get VPN support is by leveraging it on a virtual router — this is possible because any PC with a wifi card can also transmit its own wifi signals, similar to how smartphones can set up wifi hotspots.
You may want to read our tutorials on how to set up a VPN on a virtual router for Windows and Mac devices.
If you’re looking to install a VPN on Chromecast, you can read our guide on how to do just that.
You can also set up a VPN on a physical router if the firmware supports it. One such firmware is DD-WRT, a free and open-source option that works on a wide range of router models. Learn more about DD-WRT and the best VPNs for it here.
Useful links:
- How to install a VPN on an Amazon Fire Stick/Fire TV
- Best VPNs for Amazon Fire Stick/Fire TV
- Best VPNs for Smart TVs in 2018
Streaming STARZ abroad: FAQs
Should I use a free VPN to unblock STARZ?
In your hunt for a suitable VPN service, it’s likely that you will come across several free offerings. Ordinarily, such services don’t require a long-term commitment and may only ask you for an email address to log on. But take their claims with a pinch of salt; free VPNs have a bad reputation for data theft and pilferage, insufferably slow speeds, weak encryption, bandwidth throttling, and data caps.
To stream video reliably you need a fast, stable connection that offers multiple servers along with solid customer support if things go awry. Free VPNs aren’t interested in doling out a premium experience. They’re registered businesses and need to monetize the product somehow, so don’t be surprised if you’re inundated with advertisements or experience network outages in order to compel you to upgrade to a paid plan. What’s more, with a free VPN, you’re running the risk of a malware infection or having your browsing data sold to a third party.
Our recommendation is to avoid free VPNs. They simply don’t cut it. It’s best to invest a few dollars and get a paid VPN service for peace of mind.
What is the difference between STARZ and STARZPLAY?
STARZ certainly doesn’t make it easy to tell its services apart. Essentially, STARZ is the name of the channel, whereas STARZPLAY (stylized as STARZPLAY) is the name of STARZ’s’ streaming service. However, to confuse things even further, this name isn’t used everywhere. For instance, in the US, both the network and streaming services are simply called STARZ, While STARZPLAY is available in a few other countries.
Can I watch STARZ when I travel abroad?
Here’s where it gets complex: despite STARZPLAY being available in almost 30 countries around the world, STARZ is currently only available in the US.
This service isn’t like Netflix; it won’t simply change the content that’s available if you visit another country. In fact, it doesn’t even matter if you visit a location where STARZPLAY is available since you can’t log into regional versions of the site using a STARZ account. As such, Americans who go abroad are effectively prevented from watching any STARZ content unless they use a VPN.
Why is STARZ blocked outside the United States?
STARZ operates by purchasing licensing rights for the television shows and movies it hosts on its platform directly from the companies that originally produced them, such as Fox or MGM. These deals make it clear that only streamers from a particular geographical territory should be allowed to access the site, which is also known as a content licensing restriction.
If broadcasters like STARZ don’t adhere to content licensing requirements, they can be taken to court and fined heavily. That’s why the company geo-restricts its service — similar to how Netflix operates.
I’m getting an error message for STARZ. What do I do next?
You can access STARZ via two options: through an existing subscription to its television channel or with a standalone online-only plan.
Any attempts to access STARZ from an unsupported location will be greeted with the following error message:
“STARZ IS NOT AVAILABLE. Unfortunately, you are not able to purchase STARZ outside the United States or Puerto Rico!”
This isn’t great news for subscription holders who are traveling abroad and wish to continue streaming their favorite movies and television shows. In order to circumvent this restriction, you’ll have to hide your current IP address. As we mentioned earlier, the best way to do this is via a VPN. Just sign up for one of the recommended providers on this list, spoof your location to the United States, and sit back to watch your favorite shows.
What content can I stream on STARZ?
The entire library of movies and television shows is too long to list here, but some of the popular titles on STARZ include:
- Jumanji
- Spiderman
- Miami Vice
- Clueless
- Scream
- Stepmom
- Runaway Bride
- Ghost
- Lord of the Rings
- Tomorrow Never Dies
What does the STARZ package include?
A STARZ subscription allows you to stream thousands of movies and TV shows online. Notably, this includes a huge selection of the network’s original content, with well-known titles like Outlander, The Girlfriend Experience, and Dublin Murders.
It should be noted, however, that STARZ does not allow you to watch its programming live. If you’d like to stream STARZ, you’ll need a subscription to one of the over-the-top services with this channel included, such as Philo, Sling TV, or YouTube TV.
Is it legal to unblock STARZ with a VPN?
Yes, it’s legal to unblock STARZ with a VPN, and fortunately, VPNs are legal in most countries. However, it does go against the Terms of Use of the service, which states that “you must reside within the fifty states of the United States of America”. While STARZ has the right to suspend your account and access to the service, this is highly unlikely to happen as a result of using a VPN.
That said, you may find that STARZ blocks your IP address if it detects it belongs to a VPN. The blocking of VPNs is in an effort to comply with copyright and licensing agreements. The good news is that you can just connect to a different server to change your IP address. Note that while it’s legal to unblock STARZ with a VPN, VPNs may not be entirely legal in your current location, so it’s important to check this beforehand.
Is STARZ free with Netflix?
No, STARZ is not free with Netflix. However, in 2008, Netflix and STARZ announced an agreement to make movies from STARZ available to be streamed instantly by Netflix. Access to the STARZPLAY service at Netflix was included with Netflix members’ current monthly subscription fee. It is important to note that this agreement was made in 2008, and it is unclear if it is still in effect. Currently, STARZ can be accessed through its own app, Amazon Prime, Hulu, and other streaming services.
Can I watch Starz online in Canada, the UK, or Australia?
Yes, you can watch Starz online in Canada, the UK, and Australia, but the availability and method vary by country.
In Canada, Starz content is accessible through Crave, a streaming service that offers Starz as part of its subscription.
In the UK, Starz operates under the name Lionsgate+ (formerly known as StarzPlay). It is available through various platforms, including Amazon Prime Video as an add-on, Sky, Apple TV, and Roku. You can also download the Lionsgate+ app on iOS and Android devices.
In Australia, watching Starz content is a bit more complex. Due to geo-restrictions, you’ll need to use a VPN. By connecting to a VPN server in the United States, you can access Starz through its official app or website. Each region offers a unique way to access Starz, tailored to local licensing agreements and distribution strategies.