Why You Need a Native Android TV App
Android TV does not support router-level VPN configuration through the standard interface, and you cannot control a VPN from your phone and have it apply to your TV at the same time. You need a VPN with a dedicated app built for Android TV's 10-foot interface: large buttons, D-pad navigation, and quick server switching without a keyboard.
The Best VPNs for Android TV
1. NordVPN
NordVPN has one of the best Android TV apps among major providers. The interface is clean, server switching is fast, and it reliably unblocks Netflix US, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and other major streaming services. NordVPN uses NordLynx (its WireGuard implementation) by default, which gives the best balance of speed and security. At around $3-4 per month on a 2-year plan, it is also one of the better value options.
2. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN's Android TV app is polished and consistently unblocks more streaming services than most competitors. It is notably reliable for BBC iPlayer and international Netflix libraries. The Lightway protocol offers fast connection speeds that hold up well for 4K streams. ExpressVPN costs more than NordVPN ($6-8 per month on annual plans) but earns it in reliability and server coverage.
3. Surfshark
Surfshark allows unlimited simultaneous connections, which matters if you want to use one subscription for your Android TV, phones, laptops, and other devices. Its Android TV app works well and includes its CleanWeb ad-blocking feature. Surfshark unblocks most major streaming services and costs around $2-3 per month on a 2-year plan, making it the most affordable of the top tier.
4. IPVanish
IPVanish is less well-known than the top three but has one of the most mature Android TV apps in the category. It is particularly popular among Kodi users since it works well with the Kodi Android TV build. IPVanish allows unlimited simultaneous connections and offers strong speeds on its WireGuard configuration.
How to Install a VPN on Android TV
On your Android TV or Google TV device, open the Google Play Store. Search for your VPN provider's name. Install the app. Open it, log in with your account credentials (set up in advance on a phone or computer), and connect to your preferred server. Some VPNs offer a QR code login option that lets you scan from your phone rather than typing a password with the TV remote.
Using a VPN on Firestick or Fire TV
Amazon Fire TV devices run Fire OS, which is based on Android but uses the Amazon Appstore rather than Google Play. Most major VPN providers have apps in the Amazon Appstore as well. The setup process is similar: search for the VPN in the Amazon Appstore, install, log in, and connect. NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and IPVanish all have Amazon Appstore listings.