10 Play’s content is geo-restricted and unavailable outside Australia. However, there is some good news: by connecting to a VPN, you can gain an Australian IP address, bypass 10 Play’s geo-restrictions, and regain access to your favorite shows while abroad!
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts your internet traffic and runs it through a server in a location of your choosing. This allows you to browse the web safely without worrying about who might be watching. It also gives you an IP address in the chosen country, making it look as if you’re connecting from within its borders. Connecting to a server in Australia makes your home sites and streaming services think you’re still in Oz.
In this article, we’ll explain how to use a VPN to access 10 Play from anywhere in the world and the best VPNs for the job. You can read detailed reviews of each of the providers we recommend below, but in case you don’t have time to read the full article, here’s a quick summary.
The best VPNs for watching 10 Play from anywhere:
- NordVPN: The best VPN for watching 10 Play abroad. Almost 200 servers in Australia. Specialty P2P and Double VPN servers. Operates a strict no-logs policy to protect your privacy. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for streaming. - Surfshark: Best value VPN. Unlimited simultaneous connections. Servers in five cities in Australia for streaming 10 Play. Double VPN servers.
- IPVanish: Unlimited simultaneous connections per account. Servers in five Australian cities. Good, consistent speeds for watching 10 Play abroad.
- ExpressVPN: Fast servers in four Australian cities. Also works with Netflix and Stan. Includes 24/7 support and is highly secure with encryption.
- CyberGhost: High-speed service for streaming 10 Play. Over 200 servers in Australia. Easy-to-use apps with strong security with a no-logs policy.
- Private Internet Access: A fast and reliable VPN with servers in 91+ countries, including Australia, to watch 10 Play, Seven, Fox Now, Kayo, and Stan.
- PrivateVPN: Strong unblocking and works with 10 Play and Stan. Easy-to-use apps and low-cost subscriptions. Strong encryption and a no-logs policy.
Many VPNs claim to work with streaming 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 streaming and offer a full money-back guarantee, allowing you to try them risk-free.
How to watch 10 Play (Channel 10) abroad with a VPN
Using a VPN to access 10 Play outside of Australia is simpler than you might think. Just follow the five simple steps below, and you’ll be streaming your favorite content in no time.
Here’s how to stream 10 Play outside of Australia:
- Sign up with a VPN that offers servers in Australia. We particularly recommend NordVPN.
- Next, download and install the VPN app, making sure it’s the correct version for your device (the device on which you plan to watch 10 Play).
- Open the VPN app and connect to a server in Australia. This will give you the Australian IP address you need to watch 10 Play abroad.
- Go to 10 Play and sign in (or sign up for an account if you don’t have one already). All of its content should now be unblocked.
- Still can’t watch 10 Play? Try clearing your browser’s cookies before reloading the page. Alternatively, connect to another Australian server or contact your VPN’s customer support for more advice.
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How we found the top 10 Play VPNs
There are a huge number of VPN providers on the market, but not all of them meet the requirements for streaming 10 Play safely and effectively. To find the best options, we tested them in the following key areas:
- Speed: The best VPNs provide fast, consistent connections for lag-free streaming. We found the quickest providers by carrying out multiple speed tests while connected to their servers in Australia.
- Network suitability: We checked how many server locations each provider had in Australia, and then tested their ability to access 10 Play and Stan, as well as international services such as Netflix, Disney Plus, and Amazon Prime Video.
- Security and privacy: We used 16 different criteria to find the VPNs most able to keep you safe online. Those that performed poorly were rejected.
- Ease of use: To make it as easy as possible to access 10 Play, we looked for VPNs with user-friendly services. We used 10 different metrics to evaluate their apps and customer support.
- Value for money: The better providers have generous money-back guarantees and a range of subscription terms and offers. We used eight metrics to gauge each VPN’s relative worth.
You can read more about our VPN testing methodology further in this article, but for now, let’s take a closer look at the ones we recommend.
Best VPNs for 10 Play: at a glance
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 10 Play.
| No value | NordVPN | Surfshark | IPVanish | ExpressVPN | CyberGhost | Private Internet Access | PrivateVPN |
| Website | NordVPN.com | Surfshark.com | IPVanish.com | ExpressVPN.com | Cyberghost.com | PrivateInternetAccess.com | PrivateVPN.com | 10 Play reliability | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | Streaming reliability | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Good | Good | Good | Streaming services | 10 Play Netflix BBC iPlayer Amazon Prime Sky Go HBO Go | 10 Play Netflix BBC iPlayer Amazon Prime Sky Go HBO Go | 10 Play Netflix BBC iPlayer Amazon Prime HBO Go | 10 Play Netflix BBC iPlayer Amazon Prime Sky Go HBO Go | 10 Play Netflix BBC iPlayer Amazon Prime | 10 Play Netflix | 10 Play Netflix | Devices Supported | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVs, Routers | Windows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, Android | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV | Avg Speed (Mbps) | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 74 Mbps |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best deal (per month) | $3.39 Up to 76% off 2 year plans + free eSIM data | $2.19 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! | $2.19 SAVE 82% on the 2 yr plan + 2 months free | $2.00 Save 85% on a one year plan + 24-months free |
Best VPNs for watching 10 Play abroad
At Comparitech, we thoroughly test each VPN ourselves before making any recommendations to you. The following reviews are based on our first-hand experiences.
Here’s our list of the best VPNs for watching 10 Play abroad:
1. NordVPN
Jun 2025
unblocks 10 playTested Jun 2025
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- FireTV
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 9.6 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Australia speed testing: | 10.0 / 10 |
| Ease of use: | 9.6 / 10 |
| Network suitability: | 9.2 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 9.5 / 10 |
| Value for money: | 9.5 / 10 |
Website: www.NordVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
NordVPN is our top choice VPN for unblocking 10 Play (Channel 10) from anywhere. It has one of the largest server networks, with more than 7,400 servers in 118 countries. This includes Australia, where it has approximately 200 servers that can be used to access 10 Play.
If you’re looking for servers for file-sharing as well as streaming, you’ll be pleased to know that many of NordVPN’s Australian servers are optimized for P2P-related activities. It also has a strong track record with accessing Netflix and BBC iPlayer.
In our speed tests, NordVPN outperformed all of the other providers. Its overall average download speed of 191.88 Mbps was more than 73 Mbps faster than the combined average speeds of the other tested providers. In short, it’s fast enough for all of your online activities.
This service allows you to secure as many as 10 devices simultaneously. While its apps are well-organized and easy to use, support is available via 24/7 live chat. NordVPN takes your privacy seriously, offering plenty of security features that keep you safe online. These include 256-bit AES encryption, protection from DNS and IPv6 leaks, and a kill switch. It operates a strict no-logs policy and even offers Double VPN servers for an extra layer of online security.
A NordVPN subscription offers access to apps for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, and Android TV. You also have the option of using Chrome and Firefox browser extensions. If you want to use NordVPN with your Wi-Fi router, you’ll need to set this up manually.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want the fastest speeds possible for watching 10 Play without buffering.
- You want access to almost 200 servers in Australia to gain an Australian IP address and access 10 Play.
- You require a high level of security and privacy, including strong encryption and a no-logs policy.
- You want access to Threat Protection to block malicious sites, ads, and malware.
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You want streaming optimised servers or to pick a specific server rather than a location.
BEST VPN FOR 10 PLAY:NordVPN is our top recommendation with 200 servers in Australia for unblocking 10 Play. Includes 24/7 support and Double VPN servers. Strict no-logs policy. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can try it risk-free.
Read our full NordVPN review.
2. Surfshark
unblocks 10 playTested Jun 2025
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 9.3 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Australia speed testing: | 9.3 / 10 |
| Ease of use: | 8.9 / 10 |
| Network suitability: | 8.9 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 9.5 / 10 |
| Value for money: | 9.7 / 10 |
Website: www.Surfshark.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Surfshark is a budget-friendly VPN that offers you plenty of choices when it comes to unblocking 10 Play outside Australia. It has servers in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney — and fast speeds to boot. In our tests, the provider averaged 180.78 Mbps. This is fast enough for streaming 4K video on up to seven devices simultaneously.
Surfshark also offers lots of servers across the US, in case you’re interested in watching Netflix, HBO, or Hulu. However, where Surfshark stands out is that it allows unlimited simultaneous connections per account.
Another reason to consider Surfshark is its strong security. Of course, there’s 256-bit AES encryption, an automatic kill switch, and DNS leak protection. Headquartered in the British Virgin Islands, this VPN isn’t subject to mandatory data retention laws. Regardless, it has a strict no-logs policy. Further security features available to you include MultiHop servers and a CleanWeb feature, which blocks ads, trackers, and malware.
To use Surfshark, simply download one of its apps for Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Android TV, or Amazon Fire TV. Chrome and Firefox browser extensions are also offered. This VPN must be manually installed on supported routers.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want the best value budget-friendly option that offers a premium service.
- You’d like to connect unlimited devices and protect the whole family.
- You require servers in five Australian cities for reliable access to 10 Play and other streaming platforms.
- You need strong security features, including 256-bit AES encryption, MultiHop, and DNS leak protection.
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You require browser extensions for quicker access to 10 Play.
- You are looking for advanced customization like specific streaming-optimized servers.
BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark works with many popular streaming services. This includes 10 Play, Stan, and Netflix. Unlimited simultaneous connections and 24/7 support. No-logs VPN with Double VPN servers. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full Surfshark review.
3. IPVanish
unblocks 10 playTested Jun 2025
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 9 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Australia speed testing: | 8.0 / 10 |
| Ease of use: | 9.4 / 10 |
| Network suitability: | 8.9 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 8.9 / 10 |
| Value for money: | 9.6 / 10 |
Website: www.IPVanish.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
IPVanish is a particularly suitable option if you have many devices to secure. Allowing unlimited simultaneous connections, it has servers in five Australian cities (Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney) and dozens of countries around the world.
While connected to its servers in Australia, we recorded an average download speed of 161.32 Mbps. As the provider also has unlimited bandwidth, you’re unlikely to encounter performance issues or interruptions when streaming 10 Play.
Connecting to an IPVanish server is quick and easy thanks to the user-friendly apps. This VPN service has a strict no-logs policy, stating that it doesn’t collect any activity or connection logs.
You can use IPVanish to browse the web anonymously, thanks to its strong collection of security features. These include 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch feature, and DNS leak protection. Users can also scramble their data, making it harder for services to tell that they’re using a VPN in the first place.
IPVanish has recently introduced a new Advanced plan, which includes an unlimited VPN, one terabyte of secure cloud storage, and a cloud-based browser that protects you against malware, trackers, and cookies.
Connect to a server in Australia via IPVanish apps for Windows, Android, Mac, iOS, and Amazon Fire TV. Manual setup is required if you plan to use IPVanish on Linux systems or routers.
Buy this VPN if:
- You need unlimited simultaneous connections to secure all your devices at once, ideal for large families or groups.
- You require fast, reliable speeds for streaming 10 Play even during peak times.
- You need servers in five Australian cities for unblocking 10 Play, Stan, and other regional content.
- You want access to the cloud storage and secure browser of the advanced tier.
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You need more advanced features like MultiHop or specialized streaming servers.
- You are concerned about US jurisdiction – based in the US a 5 Eyes member.
UNLIMITED DEVICES:IPVanish has fast, reliable servers in Australia for watching 10 Play abroad. Lets you secure all of your devices simultaneously. Easy-to-use apps and 24/7 support. Security includes encryption and a zero-logs policy. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full IPVanish review.
4. ExpressVPN
unblocks 10 playTested Jun 2025
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 8.3 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Australia speed testing: | 5.0 / 10 |
| Ease of use: | 9.3 / 10 |
| Network suitability: | 9.7 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 9.2 / 10 |
| Value for money: | 8.4 / 10 |
Website: www.ExpressVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ExpressVPN offers a network of more than 3,000 servers in 105+ countries around the world. This includes servers in the Australian cities of Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide, Woolloomoolloo, and Sydney for watching 10 Play abroad.
In our tests, the provider’s speeds ranged from 113.63 Mbps to 118.2 Mbps — a difference of just 4.61 Mbps. As well as being consistent, ExpressVPN is fast enough for streaming 10 Play in high resolution without buffering.
ExpressVPN is also able to access Stan as well as popular US streaming services such as Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.
The beginner-friendly apps and 24/7 live chat support provided by ExpressVPN mean it’s highly suitable for beginners. It’s also worth knowing that you can use it to secure up to eight devices at once.
Security-wise, ExpressVPN stands out thanks to its use of 256-bit AES encryption, as well as DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leak protection and a kill switch. ExpressVPN protects your online privacy as it doesn’t keep personally identifiable logs.
You can download ExpressVPN apps for the following: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire TV, and Android TV. Custom router firmware is also available, as are browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.
Buy this VPN if:
- You need consistent, high-speed performance for streaming 10 Play and other content.
- You require reliable access to local and international streaming services.
- You want strong security and privacy with a proven no-logs policy.
- You are looking for beginner-friendly apps with excellent customer support and 24/7 live chat.
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You need a more budget-friendly option.
- You are looking for more advanced settings and features like MultiHop or customizable tunneling protocols.
RELIABLE UNBLOCKING:ExpressVPN is a strong choice. A fast and reliable service with strong unblocking ability. Also works with Stan. User-friendly apps and 24/7 live chat support. Strong all-round security. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full ExpressVPN review.
5. CyberGhost
unblocks 10 playTested Jun 2025
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 7.9 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Australia speed testing: | 6.1 / 10 |
| Ease of use: | 9.1 / 10 |
| Network suitability: | 5.8 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 8.9 / 10 |
| Value for money: | 9.5 / 10 |
Website: www.Cyberghost.com
Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS
CyberGhost works well with 10 Play as well as Stan, Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and a host of other platforms. To make life easier for users, it maintains a list of servers labeled with the streaming services they work best with.
Overall, the provider’s network consists of approximately 10,000 servers in 100+ countries. Some 200+ of these servers are located in the Australian cities of Melbourne, Brisbane, and Sydney.
CyberGhost performed solidly in our tests, with an overall average download speed of 134.14 Mbps. Its high-speed Australian servers mean you can stream 10 Play free from lag and buffering.
Just as impressive as CyberGhost’s speed is its overall security. It operates a strict no-logs policy and states that it has no idea what its users are doing online. This VPN uses 256-bit AES encryption to protect you from snoopers and data theft. This is combined with DNS leak protection, a kill switch, and a built-in malware scanner, making CyberGhost a highly secure option to consider. Should you have any questions, you can always make use of the 24/7 live chat and email support.
CyberGhost lets its users secure up to seven devices simultaneously per account. Its apps are available for desktop (Windows and Mac), mobile (Android and iOS), as well as Amazon Fire TV and Android TV. Browser extensions are also available for Chrome and Firefox. Use with routers requires manual configuration.
Buy this VPN if:
- You need fast speeds for streaming 10 Play with minimal buffering.
- You want easy-to-use apps with servers pre-labeled for specific streaming services like 10 Play.
- You want robust security features.
- You need excellent customer support available 24/7 via live chat.
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You want more advanced features like MultiHop or split tunneling.
- You are looking for a VPN that works well in restrictive regions like China or the UAE.
EXCELLENT SECURITY:CyberGhost has high-speed servers for streaming 10 Play lag-free. Also works with Netflix US. Connect up to seven devices simultaneously. Keeps you safe online with high-end encryption and a strict no-logs policy. 45-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full CyberGhost review.
6. Private Internet Access
unblocks 10 playTested Jun 2025
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- FireTV
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 7 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Australia speed testing: | 1.9 / 10 |
| Ease of use: | 9.6 / 10 |
| Network suitability: | 5.9 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 9.3 / 10 |
| Value for money: | 8.2 / 10 |
Website: www.PrivateInternetAccess.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a US-based VPN provider renowned for its strong commitment to user privacy. With customizable applications, users can tailor encryption and network settings to their specific needs. Despite falling under the jurisdiction of US surveillance laws, PIA maintains a strict no-logging policy that has been judicially confirmed on multiple occasions.
For those looking to access regional internet services in Australia, PIA provides streaming-optimized servers that work with popular Aussie streaming services such as 10 Play from abroad. This VPN is also effective in protecting against ISP snooping and ensuring security on public Wi-Fi networks.
In our speed tests, PIA was slower than the above VPNs, with an overall average of 70.75 Mbps. Nevertheless, it’s still more than capable of streaming 10 Play in high resolution without pauses for buffering.
PIA supports P2P activities like torrenting and boasts a large server network across over 91 countries. This enhances access to geo-restricted content worldwide. Our tests confirmed its ability to access major US streaming services like Netflix and Hulu from Australia. Plus, it works with other popular Aussie options beyond 10 Play, including Stan, 7 Plus, and Kayo.
The VPN comes equipped with advanced security features, including a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and an ad blocker. Users have the flexibility to customize encryption, port settings, and DNS configurations. While PIA generally provides decent speeds for streaming and other data-intensive activities, speeds can vary between different servers. It is recommended to test the servers you need to access international services or content. You can do this risk-free using its money-back guarantee.
PIA’s setup process is straightforward across all major operating systems and supports unlimited simultaneous connections, making it an excellent option for families or groups, particularly for Australian expats wanting to access domestic services from abroad.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want unlimited simultaneous connections – perfect for large households or those with many devices.
- You need robust security with AES-256 encryption, DNS leak protection, a kill switch, and obfuscation to protect your online activity.
- You need servers in Australia optimized for streaming, to access 10 Play and other popular Aussie content.
- You prefer customizable features, including the ability to tweak encryption and network settings.
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You require faster speeds or have a slow base connection.
- You are concerned about your VPN being based in the US, which is part of the Five Eyes surveillance alliance.
HIGHLY CUSTOMIZABLE:PIA is a fast VPN with a robust privacy policy and servers in Australia. Top-notch security features, including AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, obfuscation, and DNS leak protection. Works to access international services in Australia. PIA allows unlimited simultaneous connections and provides a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Check out our full Private Internet Access review to find out more
7. PrivateVPN
unblocks 10 playTested Jun 2025
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
| Overall score: | 6.3 / 10 |
|---|---|
| Australia speed testing: | 1.0 / 10 |
| Ease of use: | 8.6 / 10 |
| Network suitability: | 5.3 / 10 |
| Security & privacy: | 8.6 / 10 |
| Value for money: | 8.2 / 10 |
Website: www.PrivateVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
PrivateVPN‘s server network consists of roughly 200 servers, which are strategically located across 63+ countries. In Australia, the provider has servers in Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney.
In our tests, these provided speeds averaging 44.68 Mbps. This is suitable for high-resolution streaming as long as you have a decent base connection speed (ours was 250 Mbps). If you don’t, we recommend opting for a faster VPN from our list.
The main advantage of using this VPN is its impressive unblocking ability. As well as 10 Play, it works with Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and Disney+.
The live chat support offered by PrivateVPN lets you speak with the developers directly (as opposed to a third-party support rep). However, the apps are very self-explanatory and make connecting to a server quick and easy.
Once connected, your data is secured with 256-bit AES encryption and protected from DNS leaks. Aside from a kill switch, there’s also a strict no-logs policy ensuring your personal information stays private.
PrivateVPN offers apps for the following operating systems: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire TV, and Android TV. While you can use this VPN with select routers, you’ll need to follow manual setup instructions. Can be used on up to 10 devices at once.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want easy-to-use apps for quick server connections, ideal for beginners.
- You need a strong privacy focus with 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and a no-logs policy.
- You’re looking for a budget-friendly provider with affordable long-term subscriptions.
- You require excellent unblocking capabilities for 10 Play, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and more.
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You need more servers – only 200 servers globally limits your options compared to other providers.
- You want the fastest available speeds or have a slow base connection.
LAG-FREE STREAMING:PrivateVPN is ideal for streaming 10 Play, Netflix, and more. Beginner-friendly desktop and mobile apps and live chat support. Can be used on 10 devices simultaneously. Secures your data with encryption. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full PrivateVPN review.
Methodology: How we found the best VPNs for 10 Play
Relying solely on a VPN provider’s marketing materials when choosing between services is unlikely to lead to a satisfying experience. Many exaggerate their abilities, and it’s almost impossible to know which these are without trying them out. To save you from disappointment, we objectively tested likely contenders in five key areas:
Speed
Streaming 10 Play requires fast server speeds if you want to watch in high resolution without having to worry about lag or buffering. To find the fastest providers, we carried out speed tests while connected to their servers in Australia.
To emulate the experience of the average user, we rate-limited our base connection speed to 250 Mbps (which is a little slower than the median fixed broadband speed in the US). To accurately measure speed, we used the desktop version of the Ookla speed-testing app.
We averaged each provider’s results and then converted them to scores out of 10. This makes a side-by-side comparison possible.
NordVPN was the fastest provider overall. It’s the ideal option for relatively demanding tasks like streaming, gaming, and torrenting. Surfshark is a little slower, but also well-suited to a wide range of online activities.
Network suitability
We scored providers on the number of Australian server locations they had, as this gives us an idea of their overall presence in the country in the absence of actual server numbers.
We then scored them on their ability to access Australia-only streaming services — including 10 Play and Stan — as well as international platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney Plus.
The scores for the above were combined to generate an overall network suitability score for each provider.
ExpressVPN’s score of 9.7 was the highest. The provider has more server locations in Australia than the other tested VPNs, and was able to access 10 Play as well as all the other platforms we tried it with. NordVPN was able to access just as many streaming services, but had fewer Australian server locations.
Security and privacy
Browsing and streaming while traveling abroad comes with increased risk if you’re connecting to public Wi-Fi hotspots. The best VPNs encrypt your data and protect you from leaks, with some able to automatically connect when unfamiliar networks are detected.
| Feature | NordVPN | Surfshark | IPVanish | ExpressVPN | CyberGhost | PIA | PrivateVPN |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Activity logs | No activity logs | No activity logs | No activity logs | No activity logs | No activity logs | No activity logs | No activity logs |
| IP logs | No IP logs | No IP logs | No IP logs | No IP logs | No IP logs | No IP logs | No IP logs |
| Encryption | AES-128 or higher | AES-128 or higher | AES-128 or higher | AES-128 or higher | AES-128 or higher | AES-128 or higher | AES-128 or higher |
| Authentication | SHA-384 | SHA-512 | SHA-256 | SHA-512 | SHA-256 | SHA-256 | SHA-256 |
| Keys | 4096-bit | 4096-bit | 4096-bit | 4096-bit | 4096-bit | 4096-bit | 2048-bit |
| Perfect Forward Secrecy | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| DNS leak protection | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| IPv6 leak protection | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Private DNS | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Torrenting allowed | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Kill switch | All platforms | Mobile app-level | All platforms | Mobile app-level | All platforms | All platforms | Some platforms |
| HQ outside 9 eyes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| Obfuscation | Stealth | Stealth | Stealth | Automatic | Stealth | Stealth | Stealth |
| Supported protocols | Own protocol | Secure protocols only | Secure protocols only | Own protocol | Secure protocols only | Secure protocols only | Secure protocols only |
| Anonymous payment options | Multiple | Multiple | None | Multiple | Multiple | Multiple | One |
| Additional security features | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | Yes | No |
If the terms used in the table above are unfamiliar to you, don’t worry. The chart below provides an overview of the test results.
NordVPN and Surfshark each scored 9.5, putting them at the top of their game for security and privacy. Each uses strong encryption to protect user-generated traffic, and has an audited no-logs policy. Furthermore, they only use RAM-only servers and can bypass blocks in countries such as China. PIA and ExpressVPN are good alternatives.
Ease of use
You may find some VPNs overcomplicate things. We try to avoid these and instead favor providers with beginner-friendly apps. We also look for strong customer support.
| Feature | NordVPN | Surfshark | IPVanish | ExpressVPN | CyberGhost | PIA | PrivateVPN |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apps for all major platforms | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Novice-friendly design | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Ease of signup (reviewer to score) | 5 (easy) | 4 | 5 (easy) | 5 (easy) | 4 | 5 (easy) | 4 |
| Router support | Standard | Standard | Standard | App | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Unblocking consistency | Great | Great | Great | Generally works | Great | Great | Generally works |
| Task specific servers | Yes | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | No |
| Network | 60+ countries | 60+ countries | 60+ countries | 60+ countries | 60+ countries | 60+ countries | 60+ countries |
| Ease of cancellation | Very easy | Very easy | Very easy | Very easy | Very easy | Very easy | Very easy |
| Interface | Well-organised | A little cluttered | Well-organised | Well-organised | A little cluttered | Well-organised | Well-organised |
| Feature parity | Most features available on all versions | Most features available on all versions | Most features available on all versions | All features available on all versions | Most features available on all versions | Most features available on all versions | Most features available on all versions |
Each of the above metrics was assigned a score based on its relative importance. These scores were combined to generate overall scores out of 10 for comparison.
NordVPN and PIA were the easiest to use providers overall. They have a streamlined sign-up process and user-friendly apps that provide access to task-specific servers. IPVanish and ExpressVPN are also well-suited to those with no VPN experience.
Value for money
In addition to all of the above, we looked for VPNs that also offered generous money-back guarantees and long-term discounts. You can see the other ways that we measured relative value in the table below.
| Feature | NordVPN | Surfshark | IPVanish | ExpressVPN | CyberGhost | PIA | PrivateVPN |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Money-back guarantee | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Connection limit | 6+ | Unlimited | Unlimited | 6+ | 6+ | Unlimited | 6+ |
| Subscription terms | 3 terms+ | 3 terms+ | 3 terms+ | 3 terms+ | 3 terms+ | 3 terms+ | 3 terms+ |
| Sale frequency | Frequently running deals | Frequently running deals | Frequently running deals | Frequently running deals | Frequently running deals | Frequently running deals | Frequently running deals |
| Monthly pricing | <$13 | <$10 | <$13 | $15+ | <$13 | <$13 | <$10 |
| Lowest price | <$5 | <$5 | <$5 | $5+ | <$5 | <$5 | <$5 |
| Free trial available | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Student discount | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
If you’d prefer an overview, the following chart is comprised of the total scores for each test metric.
Surfshark was the best-value provider overall. This was primarily due to its wallet-friendly two-year introductory offer and the fact that it doesn’t limit the number of connected devices. IPVanish and NordVPN also do plenty to keep prices affordable.
Free VPNs for watching 10 Play abroad
While it’s tempting to opt for a free provider over a paid option, we wouldn’t recommend it. Many free VPNs are simply poor at unblocking geo-restricted content, such as that of 10 Play. The same can be said for streaming services such as Netflix, Stan, and ABC iview. What’s worse, free VPNs usually attract a lot of users to a few servers. This means a heavy server load and slower speeds as a result. As such, you may encounter a lot of lag and buffering when using a free VPN.
Also, when it comes to issues of security, free VPNs are best avoided. High-quality VPNs encrypt your data and don’t keep logs by which you can be identified. Unfortunately, most free VPNs simply don’t offer sufficient online protection and may even log and sell your personal data. If you want to be able to browse the web with your identity intact, you’re best off with a quality paid VPN rather than a free service.
Watching 10 Play with a VPN: FAQs
Why is 10 Play unavailable outside Australia?
As is the case with most TV broadcasters around the world, Australia’s 10 Play uses regional restrictions (geo-blocking) to prevent people outside of the country from watching its content. The broadcaster does this to comply with the licensing agreements it has entered with content publishers and copyright holders.
When you visit the 10 Play website, it can detect your IP address. If that address is outside of the licensed region, it serves you an error message. With a VPN, anybody outside of Australia on vacation can get an IP address down under. As a result, you can watch 10 Play and any other Australian TV streams abroad.
What can I watch on 10 Play?
You can watch a variety of live and on-demand content on 10 Play. This is predominantly made up of TV shows as well as news coverage and sporting events. Here are a few examples of some of the TV shows available:
- Gogglebox
- Dancing with the Stars
- MasterChef
- The Twilight Zone
- Neighbours
- Friends
- NCIS
- Bondi Rescue
- Nancy Drew
How does the 10 Play streaming platform know where I am?
Like many streaming services, 10 Play looks at your IP address in order to identify your location. However, using a VPN means you can change your IP address and spoof your location. This tricks 10 Play into thinking you’re located in Australia, even if you’re traveling abroad. The geo-restricted content is then unblocked as a result!
Is it legal to watch 10 Play abroad?
It’s entirely legal to watch 10Play abroad as VPNs are legal in most countries. It may go against the streaming provider’s terms of service, however, you are unlikely to get in trouble for doing so. Most likely you’ll just come across an error message if the site detects you are using a VPN.
That being said, it’s always worth checking the rules in your location before going ahead.
What else can I do with a VPN?
As we’ve already established, a VPN is a great way to access your usual websites and services from home while traveling abroad. This includes 10 Play, Foxtel Go, and Stan. However, a VPN also provides numerous other benefits that are well worth knowing about.
In particular, a VPN keeps you safe online by encrypting your data, preventing hackers and snoopers from reading it. This encryption, in conjunction with a no-logs policy, helps protect your privacy and allows you to essentially browse the internet anonymously. This is particularly useful if you’re traveling abroad and are reliant on public wifi networks. The ability to spoof your location by connecting to a server in your home country is also handy for accessing your online banking from abroad without raising any red flags with your bank.
 abroad with a VPN){kind=link}
Tried Nord VPN but can’t access 10 play service. If connected to VPN for the correct city the “10 play” signup will not allow VPN connection. Thus, unless you have an account already you can’t get “10 play” from abroad.