Best VPN Spotify

Spotify is one of the most popular apps in the world, offering a library of music content that’s unrivaled in its scale. However, the Spotify catalogue isn’t the same in every country. If you want to retain access to your favorite songs while travelling abroad, you’ll need a VPN.

Short for Virtual Private Networks, VPNs mask your true location by encrypting all the traffic flowing to and from your device and tunneling it via an intermediary server in a location of your choice. This means that a user from the US can, for example, connect to a US server while out of the country and continue to access Spotify as if they were still at home. As a bonus, VPNs keep your online activities private and prevent nosy ISPs or government agencies from figuring out what you’re doing on the web.

We’ll go into more detail about each of our recommended Spotify VPNs later. If you don’t have time to read the whole post, our findings are summarized below.

The best VPNs for Spotify:

  1. NordVPN: Our first choice VPN for Spotify! A veteran provider that works well with Spotify. Market-leading speeds for streaming and strong privacy and security. Has a 30-day money-back guarantee for a risk-free trial.
    TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for Spotify.
  2. Surfshark: Best budget VPN provider for Spotify and Spotify Premium. A reliable service known for its extensive security features. Has fast speeds, excellent unblocking, and allows unlimited simultaneous connections.
  3. IPVanish: Favored by Kodi users. Super-fast servers in the US work with Spotify and other platforms. Allows unlimited simultaneous connections with a single account.
  4. ExpressVPN: Thousands of superfast servers dotted around the globe that can unblock and stream Spotify without interruptions. 24/7 live customer support. Robust security and user-friendly apps.
  5. CyberGhost: Ideal VPN for beginners. Easy-to-use apps that are simple to install. Over 10,000 servers in 100+ countries. Tests revealed impressive streaming and download speed.
  6. PureVPN: A reliable, low-cost VPN that is fast enough to stream Spotify without issues. Comes with 256-bit AES encryption. Servers in 65 countries and always-on obfuscation.
  7. ProtonVPN: Incredibly secure and can access Spotify even on restricted networks. Allows up to 10 simultaneous connections. Vast network of 12,000+ servers.
  8. Private Internet Access: No-logs VPN with servers in 91+ countries. Connect unlimited devices at once. Dedicated streaming servers and adjustable encryption.
  9. PrivateVPN: Low-cost subscriptions and servers in 63+ countries. Works well with Spotify, Netflix, and other major platforms. 24/7 support and the option to pay in Bitcoin.
Get NordVPN - the #1 VPN for Spotify
Warning

Many VPNs claim to work with Spotify 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 Spotify and offer a full money-back guarantee, allowing you to try them risk-free.

How to use Spotify abroad with a VPN

Don’t worry if you’ve never used a VPN before they’re simpler than you might think. Just follow the steps below, and you’ll be streaming Spotify unrestricted in no time.

Here’s how to use Spotify from anywhere with a VPN:

  1. Pick a VPN provider. We recommend NordVPN because it is fast, secure, and works with every TV and music streaming service we have tested it with.
  2. Download and install the VPN app making sure to get the correct version for the devices you’ll be streaming Spotify on. All of the VPNs listed allow at least five simultaneous connections.
  3. Open the VPN app, log in, and select a server in a country where Spotify works, such as the US, UK, or Canada.
  4. Once the connection is established, open Spotify and use it like you normally would to stream all your favorite music!

WANT TO TRY THE TOP VPN 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 Spotify with no restrictions for a monthgreat if you just need to unblock the platform for a short time, for example, while on vacation. 

There are no hidden termsjust 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.

How we found the top Spotify VPNs

Finding the right VPN out of the hundreds on the market can be a time-consuming and expensive business. To help you out, we tested the top providers in five key areas. Our recommendations are based on the results of these tests.

  • Speed: For a smooth Spotify experience, you should avoid VPNs that cause inconsistent or overly slow connections. We found the fastest, most stable providers by conducting multiple speed tests over the course of a day.
  • Network suitability: To give you the broadest range of Spotify content options, we looked for providers with servers in lots of countries. We also tested each VPN with Spotify (obviously) as well as popular streaming services like Netflix.
  • Security and privacy: A good VPN keeps your online activities safe from potentially malicious third parties. We found the best by evaluating each provider against 16 different security and privacy metrics.
  • Ease of use: If you find the right provider, VPN software can be incredibly easy to use. We used 10 metrics to find the most user-friendly VPN services.
  • Value for money: Subscription price doesn’t always correlate with VPN quality. We evaluated each VPN against eight ease-of-use metrics to find which offered the best overall deals.

This is just an overview, but you can read more about our testing process in our methodology section below.

Best Spotify VPNs compared

We’ve compared the most important features of the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for Spotify.

No valueNordVPNSurfsharkIPVanishExpressVPNCyberGhostPureVPNProton VPNPrivate Internet AccessPrivateVPN
WebsiteNordVPN.comSurfshark.comIPVanish.comExpressVPN.comCyberghost.comPureVPN.comProtonVPN.comPrivateInternetAccess.comPrivateVPN.com
Ranking for Spotify:123456789
Streaming ServicesNetflix
Amazon Prime
Hulu
BBC iPlayer
Disney+
Netflix
Amazon Prime
Hulu
BBC iPlayer
Disney+
Netflix
Amazon Prime
Hulu
BBC iPlayer
Disney+
Netflix
Amazon Prime
Hulu
BBC iPlayer
Disney+
Netflix
Amazon Prime
Hulu
BBC iPlayer
Netflix
Amazon Prime
Netflix
Amazon Prime
Netflix
Amazon Prime
Netflix
Amazon Prime
Avg Speed (Mbps)100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps74 Mbps
Popular Sites Unblocked95%88%85%86%85%80%87%70%85%
Devices SupportedWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, LinuxWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TVWindows, MacOS, iOS, AndroidWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVs, RoutersWindows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, AndroidWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Smart TVs, Chromebook, RoutersWindows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, Android, Chromebook Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, LinuxWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV
Total number of servers7,4253,2002,400Undisclosed8,000+6,000+12,6601,000+200+
Best deal (per month)$3.39
Up to 76% off 2 year plans + free eSIM data
$1.99
86% OFF + 3 months free
$6.49
Best MONTHLY deal
$4.99
SAVE: 61% + 4 months free on 2 year plans
$2.19
SAVE 83% on the 2 year plan + 2 months free!
$1.99
85% off the 5-yr standard plan
$3.59
SAVE 64% on a 2-year plan
$2.19
SAVE 82% on the 2 yr plan + 2 months free
$2.00
Save 85% on a one year plan + 24-months free

The best VPNs for Spotify

Before recommending any VPN, we at Comparitech put them through a rigorous testing process to ensure they’re up to your requirements. The following reviews are the results of our first-hand experiences. Let’s take a closer look at the ones that impressed us.

Here’s our list of the top VPNs for Spotify:

1. NordVPN

NordVPN May 2025 Unblocks SpotifyTested May 2025

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • Background FireTV

VPN Ratings:

Overall score: 9.6 / 10
Ease of use: 9.6 / 10
Network suitability: 9.5 / 10
Security & privacy: 9.5 / 10
US speed: 10.0 / 10
Value for money: 9.5 / 10

Website:  www.NordVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

NordVPN is our top choice for Spotify. The provider offers a bunch of customizable options and servers designed to cater to specific aspects of your browsing experience. Overall, users have over 7,400 servers to pick from. These are spread across a whopping 118+ countries.

NordVPN's server map.
NordVPN makes it easy to see available server locations.

Once connected, users enjoy some of the fastest speeds available. In our tests for this article, NordVPN was the only provider to exceed 200 Mbps (it’s average was 201.22 Mbps overall). 

In practice, you’re unlikely to notice any impact on your speed while connected — especially when streaming Spotify.

If streaming is your thing, then you’ll be pleased to know that NordVPN works with a huge range of popular platforms. During testing, we used it to access Hulu, Netflix, BBC iPlayer and Amazon Prime Video without issue.

Streaming BBC iPlayer.
Streaming BBC iPlayer using NordVPN.

NordVPN is a log-less VPN service with zero retention of user data. This superb privacy policy has thwarted several attempts by government agencies to identify Nord users. When approached by the authorities, Nord had no information on its servers that could assist with the investigation. The provider encrypts traffic via AES 256-bit encryption and 2,048-bit DH keys. DNS leak protection is enabled by default.

Apps for both Android and iOS are available, as well as a desktop client for Windows, Linux, and MacOS. A single subscription grants access to 10 simultaneously connected devices.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You want the fastest speeds for streaming Spotify
  • You want servers in 118+ countries, giving you access to the widest range of Spotify libraries
  • You want a no-logs policy that has successfully withstood government investigations
  • You need apps for multiple platforms, including Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, and iOS
  • You want to connect up to 10 devices simultaneously on a single subscription

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You’re looking for unlimited simultaneous connections

BEST VPN FOR SPOTIFY:NordVPN is our top choice. Unblocks Spotify and most other major platforms and popular streaming services. Connects up to 10 devices simultaneously. Great on privacy and security. Has a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free.

Read our full review of NordVPN here, or check out our video review.

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2. Surfshark

Surfshark unblocks spotifyTested May 2025

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

VPN Ratings:

Overall score: 9.3 / 10
Ease of use: 8.9 / 10
Network suitability: 9.0 / 10
Security & privacy: 9.5 / 10
US speed: 9.5 / 10
Value for money: 9.7 / 10

Website:  www.Surfshark.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

Surfshark has a network of 3,200+ servers spanning over 100 countries. As such, it’s already a good choice for accessing Spotify and Spotify Premium while on vacation.

That’s not all though; this service also works with major platforms like Netflix US and Amazon Prime Video. One of its standout features is that, unlike most other VPNs, Surfshark has no connection limit.

Streaming Amazon Prime Video.
Streaming Amazon Prime Video using Surfshark.

Surfshark is also very quick, and very consistent. In our tests, speeds ranged between 190.19 Mbps and 195.74 Mbps, which is a difference of just 5.55 Mbps. Its overall average was 192.86 Mbps, which is more than fast enough for streaming Spotify while concurrently streaming, gaming or torrenting.

Security-conscious users can activate a kill switch and split tunneling feature, as well as an automatic ad-blocker and malware scanner. WebRTC, IPv6, and DNS leak protection are enabled by default, as is AES 256-bit encryption.

IP leak test.
Surfshark didn’t leak our UK-based IP address while connected.

Surfshark has a no-logs policy, which means your online activities aren’t being stored on a server somewhere. There is the option to pay in cryptocurrency if you’d like more privacy. Should you run into any trouble, customer support is on hand over live chat 24/7.

Surfshark offers apps for MacOS, Linux, Windows, Android, and iOS devices. It also works with select wireless routers but must be manually installed.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You want the most budget-friendly option that still delivers excellent performance
  • You need unlimited simultaneous connections to stream Spotify across all your devices
  • You want built-in extras like ad-blocking and malware scanning while streaming
  • You prefer a VPN with 24/7 live chat support

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You’re looking for a VPN with specialized servers for specific streaming services

BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark is a great value service that has no issues accessing Spotify and Netflix abroad. Better yet, it includes advanced features that all but guarantee a private internet connection. There’s even a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of Surfshark here, or check out our video review.

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3. IPVanish

IPVanish Unblocks SpotifyTested May 2025

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

VPN Ratings:

Overall score: 9 / 10
Ease of use: 9.4 / 10
Network suitability: 8.4 / 10
Security & privacy: 8.9 / 10
US speed: 8.5 / 10
Value for money: 9.6 / 10

Website:  www.IPVanish.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

IPVanish is a fast VPN that costs little and ships with rigid encryption standards. You will experience no lag during Spotify music playback and a seamless experience when streaming on other platforms. During testing, we successfully used it with Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney Plus and Hulu without issue.

Streaming Netflix.
Streaming Netflix using IPVanish.

Connections were consistently fast while we were connected to IPVanish’s US servers. Overall, the provider averaged 176.53 Mbps, which is fast enough for streaming in 4K on seven devices simultaneously. As a side note, IPVanish is one of the few VPNs that allows unlimited simultaneous device connections.

IPVanish doesn’t store any data logs at all, and has undergone several independent audits to prove it. It’s almost impossible for your activity to be traced back to you because even network administrators at the company have no information about what you’re doing on the web.

An internet kill switch is included, which halts all internet traffic in the event that the VPN connection drops. As for encryption standards, IPVanish uses AES-256 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 nosy hackers.

There’s the option to choose between 2,400 servers spread across over 140 locations worldwide. Users can easily find the fastest options using the ping time and load values displayed next to each server.

IPVanish's server map.
A handy server map is available on the app’s dashboard.

Apps for both Android and iOS, as well as desktop software for Windows and MacOS, are available. Many users find it an excellent option for Kodi because it allows 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.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You use Kodi for media streaming and want a remote-friendly app
  • You need unlimited simultaneous device connections for your entire household
  • You want a VPN that allows torrenting on all servers
  • You value fast US servers for accessing the American Spotify library

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You need a VPN that works in China to access Spotify there
  • You require fast customer support for troubleshooting

SECURE ALL OF YOUR DEVICES:IPVanish is great for families and multiple connections. Easy to use with Spotify. Preferred by users who need high standards of online security. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of IPVanish here or check out our video review below.

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4. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN Unblocks SpotifyTested May 2025

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

VPN Ratings:

Overall score: 8.4 / 10
Ease of use: 9.3 / 10
Network suitability: 8.9 / 10
Security & privacy: 9.2 / 10
US speed: 6.0 / 10
Value for money: 8.4 / 10

Website:  www.ExpressVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

ExpressVPN seamlessly combines military-grade encryption protocols with a fast, efficient product. The app is easy to set up and comes with a minimalist, functional design that works without any glitches.

The ExpressVPN dashboard.
The ExpressVPN app makes it obvious how to establish a connection.

There’s a wide selection of servers to choose from. Over 3,000 servers are spread across 105+ countries. When you log in, the app will suggest a ‘smart location’, which is a server that ExpressVPN feels is best suited for you based on your location.

Once connected, you’ll be able to enjoy Spotify without interruption. The provider’s tested speeds averaged 137.74 Mbps, which is ample for carryout out multiple online activities at the same time. 

Encryption standards are among the best in the business, and keep your online activities secure from prying eyes. The company leverages OpenVPN with AES-256, and also has its own connection protocol that it claims offers protection against future attacks carried out by quantum computers.

ExpressVPN's Protocol options.
ExpressVPN’s home-grown Lightway protocol ensures that connections are quick to establish.

Privacy enthusiasts will be pleased to know that the provider retains the bare minimum of data. Some of the details it records are the servers that users connect to and the dates they log on. Individual IP addresses are not recorded. For additional security, the provider also includes a ‘network lock’ that temporarily blocks internet access if the connection unexpectedly drops.

Apps for both Android and iOS are available, as well as desktop clients for Linux, Windows, and MacOS. The provider also has its own router firmware.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You want a VPN with a proprietary protocol (Lightway) designed for better speed and security
  • You want a VPN with dedicated router firmware for whole-house protection
  • You prefer a minimalist, functional design that’s extremely easy to set up and use
  • You need 24/7 live chat support for troubleshooting Spotify access issues

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You’re budget-conscious, as ExpressVPN is pricier than competitors
  • You’re a power user looking for advanced configuration options

LISTEN ANYWHERE:ExpressVPN is a trustworthy, secure service with high speeds and powerful privacy features. Great at unblocking any TV and music streaming service. Offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Here’s our review of ExpressVPN.

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5. CyberGhost

CyberGhost Unblocks SpotifyTested May 2025

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

VPN Ratings:

Overall score: 8.4 / 10
Ease of use: 9.1 / 10
Network suitability: 8.6 / 10
Security & privacy: 8.9 / 10
US speed: 5.7 / 10
Value for money: 9.5 / 10

Website:  www.Cyberghost.com

Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS

CyberGhost is a beginner-friendly option suitable for users who want a no-frills yet powerful service. It’s a Romanian-registered firm which means there aren’t any mandatory data retention laws to comply with. There’s also an independently audited policy of not storing any data, so privacy concerns are allayed.

The provider operates an extensive server network of around 10,000 servers spread across locations in 100+ countries. Finding a server to access Spotify and bypass regional restrictions is therefore pretty straightforward.

CyberGhost points users to its servers that are particularly well-suited to video-streaming, gaming and torrenting. Its streaming servers are handily labelled with the platforms that they work best with.

CyberGhost's streaming servers.
Streaming servers are ordered by country and make it easy to find working servers for your favorite platforms.

We used the servers labelled for BBC iPlayer in the UK and Netflix in the US without issue. We know from experience that the provider works with numerous other big-name platforms, too.

Streaming Netflix.
Streaming Netflix using CyberGhost.

Speeds were a little variable when tested, with a difference of 27.61 Mbps between the fastest and slowest results. That said, even the slowest result was fast enough for streaming in 4K on four devices at the same time.

CyberGhost’s choice of encryption standards is top-tier. Options include WireGuard, OpenVPN and IKEv2. Other features include an internet kill switch; an ad, tracker and malware-blocker; split tunneling; and leak protection.

CyberGhost's Privacy settings.
The Block content feature makes it easy to clean up your browsing experience.

The premium version grants seven simultaneous connections on a single plan. The company supports both Android and iOS, and there’s native software for Windows and MacOS.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You’re a beginner looking for a user-friendly VPN solution
  • You need an extensive server network with around 10,000 servers in 100+ countries
  • You want a longer money-back guarantee period (45 days vs the standard 30 days)

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You need speeds with slight variance (speed variations of up to 27.61 Mbps in testing)
  • You need a VPN that works in China or the UAE

EASY TO USE:CyberGhost is great for beginners. Great privacy, zero logs, and DNS leak protection. Unblocks Spotify, Spotify Premium, and most popular video streaming sites. 45-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of CyberGhost.

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6. PureVPN

PureVPN Unblocks SpotifyTested May 2025

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

VPN Ratings:

Overall score: 8.1 / 10
Ease of use: 9.1 / 10
Network suitability: 8.4 / 10
Security & privacy: 8.7 / 10
US speed: 6.0 / 10
Value for money: 8.1 / 10

Website:  www.PureVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 31 DAYS

PureVPN is a reliable VPN for both video and music streaming. Best of all, it is super cheap. 

The PureVPN dashboard.
The PureVPN dashboard can be navigate intuitively.

Servers are available in 65+ countries and the the provider works seamlessly with Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music Unlimited. The servers also work to access international streaming platforms like HBO Max and other leading streaming providers, including Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney Plus.

Streaming Disney Plus.
Streaming Disney Plus using PureVPN.

PureVPN’s apps are available for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux and Firestick, and they offer everything you need to gain online privacy. This includes AES encryption, a no-logs policy, a kill switch, always-on obfuscation and DNS leak protection

Its WireGuard protocol provides fast speeds suitable for everyday online activities. While connected to PureVPN’s US servers, we recorded an average download speed of 137.44 Mbps. 

Customer support response times are slow, but, in our experience, you won’t need to contact them because the VPN is easy to install and use. You can test it risk-free using its 31-day money-back guarantee.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You want always-on obfuscation for accessing Spotify on restricted networks
  • You need applications across multiple platforms, including Android, Linux, and Fire TV Stick
  • You need a simple VPN with all essential security features, including AES encryption, and a no-logs policy

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You require port forwarding without paying extra
  • You need the absolute fastest speeds for streaming

LOW COST:PureVPN lets you stream Spotify on any restricted network. Works to access regional exclusive albums. The VPN is very secure and reliable despite being cheap. Comes with a no-logs policy, AES encryption, a kills witch, and DNS leak protection.

Read our full review of PureVPN.

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7. ProtonVPN

Proton VPN Unblocks SpotifyTested May 2025

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

VPN Ratings:

Overall score: 8 / 10
Ease of use: 8.8 / 10
Network suitability: 8.2 / 10
Security & privacy: 9.3 / 10
US speed: 6.2 / 10
Value for money: 7.4 / 10

Website:  www.ProtonVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

ProtonVPN is based in privacy-conscious Switzerland and created by the same team behind Proton Mail. Over the years, it has built a sterling reputation for its strong commitment to user privacy. It features an independently audited no-logs policy, ensuring complete confidentiality for its users.

More recently, it’s been impressing us with the rapid expansion of its server network. At the last count, it had more than 12,000 servers available across 117 countries.

ProtonVPN's server options.
Users can establish a connection by clicking on any of the server markers shown on the map.

As well as working consistently well with Spotify, ProtonVPN is able to access a wide variety of video-streaming services. We tried it out with Netflix, Amazon Prime Video and Disney Plus, though it undoubtedly works with more still.

Streaming Disney Plus.
Streaming Disney Plus using ProtonVPN.

The VPN includes a robust suite of features: AES encryption, a kill switch, multiple protocol choices, obfuscation, split tunneling, multi-hop connections, self-owned bare metal servers (Secure Core), and Tor over VPN. These capabilities make ProtonVPN exceptionally reliable for avoiding ISP snooping and government surveillance, and safeguarding against hackers on public wi-fi.

Speed-wise, the provider averaged 140.86 Mbps, which is a little faster than the combined average speed of the other tested VPNs. 

As well as being fast enough for streaming, ProtonVPN is great for torrenting. It has specialized torrenting servers and port forwarding for more efficient seeding and leeching.

ProtonVPN's port forwarding button.
ProtonVPN makes it easy to enable port forwarding.

Despite its higher price on longer subscription plans, ProtonVPN offers competitive rates for shorter-term needs, making it a cost-effective option for vacationers needing to access their favorite streaming services. Customer support is readily available via live chat, and users can take advantage of the VPN’s money-back guarantee to test the service without risk.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You want a VPN from a company with a strong privacy reputation
  • You want the largest server network with over 12,000 servers across 117 countries
  • You need specialized torrenting servers and port forwarding

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You’re on a tight budget, as ProtonVPN is more expensive for longer subscriptions
  • You’re a beginner looking for a simple interface

ADVANCED AND SECURE:ProtonVPN is a highly advanced and fast VPN. It is perfect for streaming privately abroad or at work. It has apps for all platforms with reliable privacy features, including a kill switch, obfuscation, multi-hop, and AES encryption.

Check out our full ProtonVPN review.

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8. Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access Unblocks SpotifyTested May 2025

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • Background FireTV

VPN Ratings:

Overall score: 6.9 / 10
Ease of use: 9.6 / 10
Network suitability: 5.3 / 10
Security & privacy: 9.3 / 10
US speed: 2.2 / 10
Value for money: 8.2 / 10

Website:  www.PrivateInternetAccess.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

Private Internet Access will help you unblock Spotify and use it from any location. It has a server network covering some 91 countries. Several of these locations have dedicated streaming servers available. This makes it very easy to access not only Spotify but also the likes of Netflix and BBC iPlayer.

Streaming BBC iPlayer.
Streaming BBC iPlayer using PIA.

This VPN offers multiple protocol options, including WireGuard and OpenVPN. While connected to OpenVPN, users have the option to drop the level of encryption used on their traffic.

Reducing the key length from 256-bit to 128-bit reduces the computational load and helps speed things up.

This can provide an increase in speed when necessary. In our tests, PIA averaged 76.62 Mbps, which is fine for Spotify. However, for tasks like multiplayer online gaming, a speed bump could well come in handy. 

You don’t need to worry about your data or online activities being exposed when you connect to a Private Internet Access server. It uses strong encryption and also offers features such as DNS leak protection and a kill switch. It’s also worth knowing that there’s a true no-logs policy in that not even connection logs are kept. PIA also provides you with an unlimited connection allowance.

PIA has apps for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, and Amazon Fire TV. You’ll also have the option of browser extensions (available for Chrome, Firefox, and Opera). Last but not least, it’s possible to manually set PIA up with a router.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You want a VPN with dedicated streaming servers for Spotify and other platforms
  • You need adjustable encryption levels to optimize speed when necessary
  • You want to connect unlimited devices simultaneously

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You need a VPN that works in China
  • You need consistently fast speeds, as PIA averaged only 76.62 Mbps in testing

NO LOGS VPN:Private Internet Access successfully unblocks Spotify and has servers in 91 countries globally. Consistent connection and download speed and strong privacy protection with its no-logs policy. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full Private Internet Access review.

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9. PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN Unblocks SpotifyTested May 2025

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

VPN Ratings:

Overall score: 6.3 / 10
Ease of use: 8.6 / 10
Network suitability: 5.2 / 10
Security & privacy: 8.6 / 10
US speed: 1.0 / 10
Value for money: 8.2 / 10

Website:  www.PrivateVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

PrivateVPN has a network that’s only made up of approximately 200 servers, but these can be found in over 63 countries globally. The provider works great with music-streaming services like Spotify, as well as video-streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney Plus.

Streaming Amazon Prime Video.
Streaming Amazon Prime Video using PrivateVPN.

In our speed tests, PrivateVPN averaged 51.16 Mbps overall. While slower than most of the other VPNs in this list, it’s still fast enough for streaming 4K video on two devices at the same time.

Like PIA, PrivateVPN allows users to drop the encryption level to increase their connection speed.

PrivateVPN's encryption options.
Users can choose their preferred level of encryption using the drop-down menu.

This is arguably one of the easiest VPNs to use, thanks to the streamlined interface of PrivateVPN’s desktop and mobile apps. Live chat and email support are available to help (email response times are far quicker than most VPNs we’ve tested), as is free remote help and installation.

As for security, you can expect 256-bit AES encryption, DNS leak protection, and a kill switch. This is a no-logs service that even lets you pay anonymously in Bitcoin.

You can use PrivateVPN with Spotify by downloading an app for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire TV, or Android TV. You’ll need to configure VPN manually to use it with Linux or your wireless router.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You need a VPN with a simple, streamlined interface
  • You want to pay anonymously with Bitcoin

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You need a larger server network than 200 servers across 63 countries
  • You require 24/7 live chat support

EXCELLENT UNBLOCKING:PrivateVPN is a secure and reliable VPN service. Use it to access Spotify, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer and others. Beginner-friendly VPN that protects privacy with a no-logs policy. Has a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full PrivateVPN review.

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Using a free VPN to unblock Spotify

We understand how tempting it is to opt for a free VPN, especially if you’ve already paid for a Spotify Premium account and don’t want to spend any more.

But free VPNs are vastly inferior to paid options. For smooth, uninterrupted audio playback, you’ll need a VPN that doesn’t impose things like bandwidth throttling or data caps. These are common with free options, which also tend to have too many users for their limited number of servers.

Remember that free VPNs aren’t truly free. They monetize by making you the product: inundating you with advertisements and, in some cases, inserting tracking cookies in your browser to mine browsing data and sell it to third-party sites.

So for those reasons, we recommend avoiding the risk and staying away from free VPNs altogether. However, if you’re set on trying to unblock Spotify for free, here are some tips on doing so safely.

How to access Spotify from anywhere for free (safely):

  • Find a quality VPN with a free trial, these can last anywhere between a day and a week so might be just what you need for a short term.
  • Choose a reputable VPN that has a free basic level – such as ProtonVPN. This comes with limited server locations and data caps but is a reputable, secure, no-logs provider that’s worth a try before you commit to a paid plan.
  • Make the most of the money-back guarantees on the best VPNs for Spotify listed above. These last 30 – 45 days. Unlike free trials, you do need to make a payment upfront, but you have the reassurance that you can claim a full refund if you’re not happy with the service. Check out our article explaining how to claim a refund from NordVPN to see how simple the process is.

Finding the best VPNs for Spotify: our methodology

Every VPN is different, and while this means that there’s a service for every situation, it also makes it tricky for newcomers to decide which one to use. That’s where we come in. Having carefully considered the most important things a VPN should offer for accessing Spotify and Spotify Premium from anywhere, we carried out tests in the following areas:

Speed

While Spotify itself isn’t hugely taxing speed-wise, it’s good to have a provider that’s able to handle this as well as more demanding tasks. To find the fastest VPNs, we carried out multiple speed tests while connected to their US servers.

To approximate the experience of an average user in the US, we rate-limited our base connection speed to 250 Mbps (the median fixed broadband speed in the US is 287.43 Mbps). Once we were set up, test measurements were taken using the desktop version of the Ookla speed-testing app.

The results were averaged for each provider, before being converted to a score out of 10 relative to the other tested VPNs. This makes a side-by-side comparison easier.

NordVPN was the fastest provider overall, and the only one to exceed 200 Mbps. Surfshark, with a score of 9.5, was a close second. While all VPNs slow your connection a little, these two providers do so the least.

Network suitability

We scored providers on the number of servers they had in their networks, as well as the number of countries they had a presence in. A high score in the former means there’s less likelihood of congestion, while a high score in the latter means you’ll be able to access more Spotify regions — and therefore more music. We also scored providers on their overall streaming ability i.e. whether they were blocked by streaming platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video and, of course, Spotify.

These scores were weighted and then combined to generate an overall score out of 10 for each provider.

NordVPN was again the highest-scoring provider. It has thousands of servers available in more countries than any other provider that we know of. It also excels at accessing streaming services. If you don’t mind less server choice, then Surfshark is a great alternative.

Security and privacy

At a minimum, we look for DNS and IPv6 leak protection, a kill switch, a no-logs policy, and 256-bit encryption. Naturally, we prefer providers that go even further to protect your traffic from snoopers — you can see which these were in the table below.

FeatureNordVPNSurfsharkIPVanishExpressVPNCyberGhostPureVPNProton VPNPIAPrivateVPN
Activity logsNo activity logsNo activity logsNo activity logsNo activity logsNo activity logsNo activity logsNo activity logsNo activity logsNo activity logs
IP logsNo IP logsNo IP logsNo IP logsNo IP logsNo IP logsNo IP logsNo IP logsNo IP logsNo IP logs
EncryptionAES-128 or higherAES-128 or higherAES-128 or higherAES-128 or higherAES-128 or higherAES-128 or higherAES-128 or higherAES-128 or higherAES-128 or higher
AuthenticationSHA-384SHA-512SHA-256SHA-512SHA-256SHA-256SHA-512SHA-256SHA-256
Keys4096-bit4096-bit4096-bit4096-bit4096-bit4096-bit2048-bit4096-bit2048-bit
Perfect Forward SecrecyYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
DNS leak protectionYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
IPv6 leak protectionYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Private DNSYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Torrenting allowedYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Kill switchAll platformsMobile app-levelAll platformsMobile app-levelAll platformsSome platformsAll platformsAll platformsSome platforms
HQ outside 9 eyesYesNoYesYesYesYesYesNoYes
ObfuscationStealthStealthStealthAutomaticStealthAutomaticStealthStealthStealth
Supported protocolsOwn protocolSecure protocols onlySecure protocols onlyOwn protocolSecure protocols onlySecure protocols onlySecure protocols onlySecure protocols onlySecure protocols only
Anonymous payment optionsMultipleMultipleNoneMultipleMultipleOneOneMultipleOne
Additional security featuresYesYesNoNoNoNoYesYesNo

Each of the above metrics was given a score based on its relative importance. These scores were then combined to generate an overall score out of 10 for each provider.

NordVPN and Surfshark each scored 9.5, reflecting their ability to keep your connection safe and secure. They do this using robust encryption, RAM-only servers, effective obfuscation and strict no-logs policies. ProtonVPN and PIA are also highly recommended.

Ease of use

Staying safe online shouldn’t require massive tech experience. Our top VPNs all have novice-friendly apps for a wide range of devices. Further, they all have knowledgeable customer service on hand in case you need it. You can see for yourself how each provider makes life easier for its users in the table below.

FeatureNordVPNSurfsharkIPVanishExpressVPNCyberGhostPureVPNProton VPNPIAPrivateVPN
Apps for all major platformsYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Novice-friendly designYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Ease of signup (reviewer to score)5 (easy)45 (easy)5 (easy)4345 (easy)4
Router supportStandardStandardStandardAppStandardAppStandardStandardStandard
Unblocking consistencyGreatGreatGreatGenerally worksGreatGreatGreatGreatGenerally works
Task specific serversYesNoNoNoYesYesYesYesNo
Network60+ countries60+ countries60+ countries60+ countries60+ countries60+ countries60+ countries60+ countries60+ countries
Ease of cancellationVery easyVery easyVery easyVery easyVery easyVery easyVery easyVery easyVery easy
InterfaceWell-organisedA little clutteredWell-organisedWell-organisedA little clutteredA little clutteredTakes some getting used toWell-organisedWell-organised
Feature parityMost features available on all versionsMost features available on all versionsMost features available on all versionsAll features available on all versionsMost features available on all versionsMost features available on all versionsMost features available on all versionsMost features available on all versionsMost features available on all versions

As before, each metric was assigned a score. These scores were combined to create an overall score out of 10 for comparison.

NordVPN and PIA each scored 9.6. Both providers have particularly user-friendly apps and a streamlined service for sign-up and cancellation. IPVanish and ExpressVPN are also good options for anyone new to VPN software.

Value for money

Just because a VPN provides all these features, it shouldn’t cost the earth. All of the services we recommend are fairly priced, and come with various other money-saving features. Browse the table below to see what these are.

FeatureNordVPNSurfsharkIPVanishExpressVPNCyberGhostPureVPNProton VPNPIAPrivateVPN
Money-back guaranteeYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Connection limit6+UnlimitedUnlimited6+6+6+6+Unlimited6+
Subscription terms3 terms+3 terms+3 terms+3 terms+3 terms+3 terms+3 terms+3 terms+3 terms+
Sale frequencyFrequently running dealsFrequently running dealsFrequently running dealsFrequently running dealsFrequently running dealsFrequently running dealsFrequently running dealsFrequently running dealsFrequently running deals
Monthly pricing<$13<$10<$13$15+<$13<$13<$10<$13<$10
Lowest price<$5<$5<$5$5+<$5<$5$5+<$5<$5
Free trial availableYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Student discountYesYesYesYesYesNoNoNoNo

Once again, each test metric was scored. These scores were then combined to generate an overall score out of 10 for each provider.

Surfshark and IPVanish were the top-scoring providers. Both allow unlimited simultaneous device connections and both have keenly priced two-year subscription plans (though Surfshark’s is marginally cheaper).

Countries where Spotify is available

Currently, Spotify is available in the following countries:

RegionCountries
Asia Pacific

Australia, Japan, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand.
EuropeAndorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, United Kingdom.
Latin America and the CaribbeanArgentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay.
The United States and CanadaCanada, United States.

This might seem like a large list, but there are several countries with high levels of GDP/capita where it’s still not present such as India, China, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Russia, and others.

One of the reasons why Spotify isn’t available across the globe is because of music licensing rights. The company bids for rights from original copyright holders such as record labels and content producers. It also has rivals trying to do the same, which means there will invariably be some countries where Spotify won’t be able to operate.

Whenever you log in to Spotify, the app will try to determine your location via the IP address you use. If it’s from a country that’s not supported, then it’ll use a technique called geo-blocking to restrict access. The only way to overcome this problem is to change your IP address via a VPN.

Spotify also incorporates a separate library depending on what part of the world you log in from. This is similar to how Netflix operates – users in Latin America will be able to access a different library of content as compared to their North American counterparts.

When you log in to the Spotify app or website, your authentication details are saved for 14 days. It doesn’t matter if you travel abroad and access it from a separate country – you’ll still be able to access streaming music for that period. Afterward, you’ll have to log in again – at this point, Spotify will check whether you’re present in the same country as listed in your profile. If you’re not, a VPN can do the trick.

If you don’t try to mask your location, Spotify might ping you with the following error message:

“Your country does not match the one set in your profile.”

Spotify history and controversies

Spotify was first built in Stockholm, Sweden, by engineers Daniel Ek and Martin Lorentzon in 2005. It came about after Daniel slept over at Martin’s house on a bare mattress with just his laptop in tow. For the first year or so, the two of them slugged it out in an apartment, hacking away furiously at the product. Public beta didn’t come until spring 2007.

The company did start hitting its stride early, though. It was able to raise a $21.6 million series A round just a little over a year after the public beta launch. It went on to raise two more rounds, in 2009 and 2010 – snaring in rockstar investors such as Sean Parker to help the company grow.

A gargantuan $100 million series D round came in 2011, the same year that Spotify finally launched in the US. Mark Zuckerberg described himself as a fan of the company, famously proclaiming that “Spotify’s so good”.

In 2015, Spotify declared that it had paid out over $3 billion to artists to date and had 75 million active users. It’s doubled the active user figure in just two years.

But despite all these lofty standards, the company hasn’t exactly shied away from controversy. Artists on the platform earn less than one US cent per stream. Taylor Swift famously pulled all of her music in 2014 after complaining that streaming services like Spotify don’t reward artists enough and that music is a form of art that should be considered valuable.

In 2017 Spotify was also accused of creating fake artists. This is not to suggest that the music was composed by an AI platform, but more likely by artists paid and contracted by Spotify itself.

The move attracted a fair bit of controversy but isn’t far removed from a similar strategy at entertainment behemoth Netflix whose original entertainment division is now starting to become a massive force in its own right.

Spotify denied the assertions vigorously, although it could significantly reduce the amount of money it pays music right holders – which totaled $2.48 billion in 2016.

Accessing Spotify with a VPN: FAQs

How do I download Spotify abroad with a VPN?

If you live in a country like Kenya or China, where Spotify isn’t available, you can still download the app. However, you’ll have to connect to a VPN beforehand and choose a VPN server in a country where Spotify is available. This changes your IP address so that when the Spotify website checks, it looks like you’re accessing it from within a supported country.

On the plus side, Spotify is now available in more than 80 countries, which means that most server locations should work. That said, for the fastest speeds, we recommend using ones that are as close to your physical location as possible.

Is it legal to use Spotify in countries where it’s blocked?

There is no law against using a VPN to access geo-restricted content from outside of its intended broadcast area. However, doing so (for instance, by using Spotify with a VPN while traveling in China) goes against Spotify’s user guidelines, which specifically forbid you from “circumventing any territorial restrictions applied by Spotify or it licensors”.

So what does this mean? Simply, even if Spotify finds out that you’re accessing it from a country where it’s normally unavailable (which is far from a given), you’re unlikely to face any repercussions. In fact, the worst that could happen is you’ll have your account terminated. This is already pretty unlikely, though, and even more so if you’re a Spotify Premium customer.

Why can’t I find Spotify in the app store?

If Spotify isn’t showing up in your preferred app store, it’s likely that you’re in a country where the service isn’t available. Don’t be tempted to grab the APK file from a third-party website; there’s no telling whether the app you’re installing is actually Spotify or even if it’s safe. Besides, the Spotify app checks your IP address to make sure you’re in a supported country, so even if you manage to install it, you’ll still need a VPN before you can listen to anything.

Here’s the solution: just connect to a VPN server in one of Spotify’s supported locations. This should change the apps available in your app store and allow you to use the service as normal from anywhere in the world.

How does Spotify know if I'm using a VPN?

Spotify can detect VPN users in several ways. One is to analyze the IP address you are using. VPN servers have much higher traffic than private or home servers, so if Spotify detects a high level of traffic coming from one IP it might blacklist it and prevent users from accessing the service.

How do I change my country in a Spotify account?

Here are the steps if you have recently moved to another country and have a Spotify Premium account. It’s likely that your bank account/credit card details will change, and you would like to update the payment method.

Here’s how to change country on Spotify:

  1. Log into your account page on the Spotify website
  2. Select “Subscription” in the left panel
  3. Click “Update Details”
  4. Click “…” for more options
  5. Click “Change Country” and select the country you want to move your account to
  6. Choose a payment method that is based in the new country (i.e. the billing address is in the country)
  7. Confirm the change by clicking “Change Payment Details”

You can still continue to use your existing Spotify Premium account anywhere in the world if your previous payment details are still valid. Just don’t update your account details to your new address.