TF1 is geo-blocked, which means you can’t normally access it from outside of France. This can be a problem for French residents who want to keep up with their favorite shows or access their home streaming libraries while traveling abroad. Luckily by using a Virtual Private Network (VPN), you can easily bypass these geographical restrictions from outside the country.
A VPN allows you to connect to a server in another location from where you are. Your internet traffic is then encrypted and routed through the VPN server chosen, changing your IP address and allowing you to unblock geo-restricted websites and services such as TF1. In this article, we talk about the best VPNs to help you gain a French IP address so that you can watch all your favorite TF1 shows and French streaming sites, while you’re abroad.
You will find plenty of details on each of the providers we feature below, but in case you only have time for a summary, here is our list of the best VPNs for watching TF1 from anywhere:
- NordVPN: Our first choice for TF1. Plenty of servers in France that are capable of unblocking most popular French content. Strong security features and a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Surfshark: Best budget option. Fantastic security and privacy toolkit, plus the ability to unblock a huge range of geo-blocked services.
- ExpressVPN: With super-fast servers in France and around the globe, this provider has no issues unblocking almost any streaming content you could want.
- CyberGhost: Easy-to-use apps make this a great choice for beginners wanting to access TF1 while abroad. Our tests revealed impressive streaming speeds. Private and secure apps.
- IPVanish: High scores for speed. Very popular with Kodi users. Allows any number of connections. Strong on privacy, with a true no-logs policy.
- PrivateVPN: Veteran provider gaining a reputation for its unblocking capabilities and streaming speeds. Apps are private and secure.
- AtlasVPN: Excellent at unblocking TF1 from anywhere, includes unlimited device connections and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
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The best VPNs for TF1
The VPN market is very crowded, and not all provide the security, speed, and unblocking capabilities you need to unblock TF1 from abroad. We base our list of the best TF1 VPNs on the following key criteria:
- Operates servers in France
- Can access the TF1 online streaming service
- High speed and no bandwidth limits
- Easy to install and run
- Superb customer support
We have thoroughly tested every VPN on this list; and we explain exactly how we chose the VPNs we recommend later in this article. Scroll down for more info.
Here is our list of the best VPNs for watching TF1 from anywhere:
1. NordVPN
May 2023
Unblocks TF1Tested May 2023
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- FireTV
Website: www.NordVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
NordVPN is a great service for TV streaming from anywhere in the world. The company has 5,000+ servers in almost 60 countries, including France. The company operates around 230 servers in France, and its speeds are among the fastest we’ve seen. Users can take advantage of a double VPN option and extra obfuscation if they wish. You get an allowance of six concurrent connections per account.
NordVPN recently introduced its own NordLynx protocol, which blends speed and security. This complements its already-exceptional offering, which includes 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, protection against IPv6, DNS, and WebRTC leaks, and obfuscated servers. NordVPN is a particularly good service if you are in a country with very restricted internet service, such as China or Iran. The customer support team can be contacted 24/7 via live chat.
The company provides apps for Windows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. You can also install a browser extension for Chrome and Firefox. You can install NordVPN manually on compatible routers.
Pros:
- Operates over 230 servers in France, great for unblocking geo-restricted content
- Doesn’t skimp on security or privacy features
- Great multi-platform support
- Servers are optimized for HD streaming
- 24/7 customer support via live chat
Cons:
- The desktop app can be slow to connect sometimes
Our score:
BEST VPN FOR TF1:NordVPN is our top choice VPN. A privacy-first option which works reliably with TF1 and most popular streaming sites. Connects up to 6 devices simultaneously. Top notch privacy and security. Includes a risk-free 30-day money back guarantee.
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 first choice for those looking to stream TF1 on a budget. It offers more than 3,200 servers in 95+ countries (including France) and is fast enough to stream live TV with no noticeable buffering. Better still, this service allows users to secure any number of devices at once.
It’s strong from a security perspective too. There’s 256-bit encryption built-in, plus a kill switch, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and a NoBorders mode that lets you access the internet freely, wherever you are. What’s more, Surfshark follows a strict no-logs policy. Customer support can be reached, day or night, over live chat.
Surfshark apps are available for iOS, Android, Linux, MacOS, and Windows. Thanks to a recent update that added full M1 chip support, MacOS users should notice lower battery usage and overall, better performance than ever before.
Pros:
- Fast enough for streaming live TV without any issues
- Unblocks some of the most popular streaming services abroad
- Strong commitment to your security
- Keeps no logs
- Allows unlimited devices
Cons:
- Customer support could be improved
Our score:
BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark is a low-cost provider that ticks all the boxes. Blending speed, security, and versatility, it’s a fantastic choice for streaming TF1 outside of France. There’s even a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read the full Surfshark review.
3. ExpressVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.ExpressVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ExpressVPN is great for streaming, for several reasons. First, it’s the fastest VPN we’ve tested, by far. This means you’re extremely unlike to encounter lag or buffering when watching TF1 online. Additionally, ExpressVPN is capable of accessing major services including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu. You can access the ExpressVPN service on five devices all at once.
This service keeps you safe online using a blend of 256-bit encryption, a kill switch (which it calls a “network lock”), and protection against IPv6 and DNS leaks. There’s also an option that lets you choose certain apps to bypass the VPN entirely. ExpressVPN doesn’t log any personally identifiable information. It has an excellent customer support team and you can get help online via live chat around the clock.
The service is available for Windows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. Further, its custom router firmware was recently updated to provide a smoother, faster, and more reliable experience.
Pros:
- Works with TF1 and other streaming services from abroad, including Netflix France
- Server speeds are great for HD streaming and fast downloads
- High-end security features with good privacy protection
- Offers 24/7 live chat
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive than some of its rivals
Our score:
SOLID EVERYDAY VPN:ExpressVPN is a reliable choice. Fast and secure, not to mention capable of unlocking TF1 and similar services abroad. All plans come with a 30-day money back guarantee.
Read our full review of ExpressVPN.
4. CyberGhost
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.Cyberghost.com
Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS
CyberGhost includes specific servers for streaming and there’s even one specially designed to unblock TF1. This makes it as easy as possible to start watching abroad. As well as TF1, this VPN works with France TV, Canal+, and RTL, to name but a few. Speeds are generally pretty impressive, and users can secure up to seven devices at once.
The company goes to great lengths to ensure privacy for its customers. For instance, it has 256-bit encryption, an always-on kill switch, and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks all enabled by default. It recently added WireGuard support too, and has branched out into providing a password manager of late. Customer support is on-hand 24/7 over email and live chat.
The company makes apps for Windows, MacOS, iOS, Linux, and Android. You can install the VPN manually on compatible routers.
Pros:
- Almost 700 servers in France and can unblock most French content abroad
- Above-average HD streaming speeds
- Keeps no user activity logs and provides strong encryption to bypass activity detection
- Apps are great for beginners
Cons:
- Could offer more control over advanced features
Our score:
GREAT FOR STREAMING:CyberGhost is a beginner-freindly VPN. Easy to use with good server representation in France, it’s ideal for watching TF1. Stores no logs and streams HD video reliably. 45-day money back guarantee.
Read our full CyberGhost review.
5. IPVanish
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.IPVanish.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
IPVanish has a robust network of servers making it ideal for streaming video over long distances. The company has invested a lot of money into its infrastructure recently, providing significant speed increases and overall, better reliability. IPVanish has 30+ high-speed servers in France that will get you into TF1 from outside the country. There’s no connection limit, either, so you can watch on any device you like.
This provider secures each of your connections with top-notch security features like 256-bit encryption, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and a kill switch. Additionally, it has a feature that can scramble OpenVPN traffic for even greater privacy. IPVanish doesn’t keep any logs and now offers the WireGuard protocol too. 24/7 support is available over live chat and email.
The company offers apps for Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, and Fire TV. You can install the service manually on compatible routers and Linux systems.
Pros:
- Operates over 30 servers in France, ideal for streaming French content abroad
- Speeds are great for HD streaming on most servers
- Top notch security and privacy considerations
- Connect all of your devices at once
Cons:
- Struggles to unblock larger streaming platforms
Our score:
STREAM ANYWHERE:IPVanish is secure and versatile. Great for streaming, with no connection or bandwidth limits to speak of. Offers a 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 provides access to the TF1 video player and many similar services from abroad. These include platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and HBO Max. This VPN is one of the fastest on the market and is reliable enough to use regularly. With a six-connection limit, users can protect all of their favorite devices at the same time.
This provider recently became its own web host and ISP, giving it full control over your traffic from start to finish. This means that there’s absolutely no risk of a third party seeing what you do online. The apps include 256-bit encryption, leak protection, and a customizable kill switch too, so your privacy is in good hands. Most importantly, PrivateVPN keeps no logs whatsoever. Live chat is available for most of the day.
You can install the PrivateVPN app on Windows, Linux, MacOS, Android, iOS, and Amazon Fire TV. However, you’ll have to configure the VPN manually on compatible routers.
Pros:
- No issues unblocking TF1 and other French streaming content
- Strong security and privacy protection features
- Keeps no logs whatsoever
Cons:
- Live chat is not quite available 24/7
- Fewer servers to choose from
Our score:
GREAT SPEED:PrivateVPN is a good family choice. Unlocks TF1. Good for general browsing and torrenting. Could do with having more servers and lacks 24/7 support. 30-day money back guarantee.
Read our full review of PrivateVPN.
7. AtlasVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- FireTV
Website: www.atlasvpn.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
AtlasVPN is a Panama-based VPN provider that operates a zero-logs policy. It has servers in over 40 countries worldwide, including servers in France that are capable of unblocking TF1. Although it is considered a newer entry to the VPN space, it was recently acquired by Nord Technologies, boosting its reputation.
For viewers that enjoy quality streaming, AtlasVPN uses the WireGuard protocol to deliver lightning-fast streaming speeds that produce high-quality streams. You’ll be able to stream on unlimited devices with an infinite connection limit. And, with apps for all major platforms, you can stream on almost any size screen.
256-bit encryption, malware and ad blocker, split tunneling, and data breach monitoring are all extra security benefits for the most secure surfing. Try AtlasVPN for 30 days, and cancel if you’re unhappy.
Pros:
- Unlimited connection limit
- Unblocks platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney Plus
- Fast and reliable speeds
Cons:
- Small selection of servers versus other VPNs
- Doesn’t work well in China
Our score:
UNLIMITED CONNECTIONS:AtlasVPN uses WireGuard to provide the best TF1 streaming speeds. It has servers in 40+ locations and offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read the full AtlasVPN review.
Our methodology for recommending TF1 VPNs
There are tons of VPNs on the market and picking between them can give you a headache. Not all VPNs are the same, and they don’t all have the features you need to unblock TF1 outside of France. In addition, many VPNs have slow servers that are not good for streaming or have outdated policies and vulnerable apps that put your privacy at risk.
Our experts test and review the world’s leading VPNs. We use a specific testing methodology to guarantee that all our recommendations are suitable for the task at hand. Below, we have included all of the criteria that our experts used to pick the VPNs recommended on this page:
- Servers in France. This allows you to get an IP address in France to unblock TF1, and other popular French services.
- Servers worldwide. A large server network lets you pretend to be in more places so that you can get great speeds and unblock more regional content.
- Apps for all platforms. We always recommend VPNs that have apps and user guides for all platforms, so that you can install the VPN on every device you own.
- Reliable encryption. Encryption must be strong and up to date to ensure it can keep your online habits safe and private at all times.
- A no-logs policy. We only recommend VPNs that promise never to store usage logs or any other persistent logs that could be used to identify you at a later date.
- Torrenting permitted. For a VPN to be versatile and good value for money it should let you do as you please online. That is why we recommend VPNs that permit P2P connections for seeding and leeching torrents.
- Advanced VPN privacy features. We look for a kill-switch, IP, DNS, and WebRTC leaks, obfuscation, and other advanced features that make the VPN superb value for money (check the summaries and our VPN reviews for details about these additional features).
- Fast connection speeds. To stream TF1 you require fast speeds that prevent buffering. We check all our recommendations to guarantee that they will let you watch your favorite shows without distractions.
How to stream TF1 online from abroad
Before you can watch videos or streams on the site you’ll need to set up a VPN. Below is our quick guide to streaming TF1 live online from anywhere.
Here’s how to live stream TF1 online from anywhere:
- Subscribe to any of the VPNs above (we recommend NordVPN).
- Log in and select a server in France, then connect.
- Switch off any ad blockers you might be using.
- Visit TF1 and log in (or create an account if you don’t already have one).
- Try playing a video. It should load right away, but if not, clearing your cookies and cache should fix most issues. Still having problems? Get in touch with your VPN’s support team for more advice.
Can I use a free VPN for TF1?
Unfortunately, you probably won’t be able to watch TF1 over the internet by using a free VPN. This is because the process of getting past regional restrictions and proxy detection is complicated and companies that can achieve those goals have to invest a lot of money in special equipment and bespoke programs in order to keep in the game. Free VPNs tend to be much slower than paid VPNs, data and bandwidth caps are common, and server selection is much more limited.
It’s great to get stuff for free. However, those companies that don’t make money off a subscription try to earn an income by other routes. Those free VPNs are sometimes honey traps to get people to hand over their personal data, which the VPN provider then sells to advertisers. You can also expect constant advertising with free VPN services; many even inject ads straight into your browser.
Our best advice is to pay the money for a quality VPN you know you can trust.
Streaming TF1 online: FAQs
What speeds do I need for live streaming TF1?
Netflix recommends a connection speed of 5 Megabits per second to prevent stuttering and buffering while watching HD video. But Netflix’s on-demand videos are optimized for streaming. Live streams don't have time to compress the video, so they are not as efficient as on-demand streams. Watching a live stream typically requires much more bandwidth than an on-demand stream of equal quality.
The services in our list of the best VPNs for streaming TF1 all exceed this requirement.
Why won't TF1 let me watch from abroad?
TF1 must pay for its content, and it only buys the rights to show entertainment in France. Content licensing restrictions apply to the device that views the entertainment, not the location of the video streaming server nor the user’s home or billing address. So, when TF1 signs contracts to show video in France, it must take steps to ensure people outside France can’t access video on its site.
So, if you try to access TF1 from outside of France, the video player screen will be black and show nothing but the error message, "Un probleme technique est survenu" or possibly "Ce contenu est indisponible dans votre région.”
In English, these mean "A technical problem has arisen" and “This content is not available in your area”.
The obligation to limit access to content extends to blocking VPNs and other methods that enable the general public to bypass such restrictions. TF1, like most other online TV services, invests heavily in VPN detection systems. Because of VPN detection, not many VPNs can get you into TF1. All of the VPNs in our list above can bypass TF1’s proxy detection systems.
What can I watch on TF1?
TF1 offers a ton of content, from reality TV shows to sports. Here are just a few of the things you can stream on the TF1 website:
- Euro 2020
- Luther
- Les Feux de l'Amour
- The Voice
- For life
- Naruto
- 90210
- Hollyoaks
- Les Toqués
- Danse avec les stars
Will using a VPN slow down my computer?
VPN apps are typically lightweight and run in the background with minimal impact on system resources, so using a VPN is unlikely to slow down your computer.
is it legal to stream TF1 abroad with a VPN?
Using a VPN to stream TF1 abroad might be convenient, but it could land you in hot water. Depending on your country and its laws, streaming international content could be illegal, so make sure you're aware of any possible penalties before diving in. Even if your country has no restrictions on streaming content, using a VPN to watch TF1 may still violate the terms of the broadcaster – and they may take action should they find out. Bottom line? If you're considering streaming TF1 with a VPN, do your research first and ensure that all involved parties are ok with it!