Apple TV runs on the tvOS, a high-end media hub, though the functionality is critically low due to two factors: risk of privacy in shared networks (hotels, etc.) and the strong geo-restrictions that block access to international content libraries (international Netflix collection, live sports events played abroad). Most importantly, now, Apple TV devices with tvOS 17 or later have native support for VPN apps that can be downloaded directly through the App Store, making a VPN for Apple TV the simplest way to encrypt traffic, protect viewing habits from ISPs, and hide your location to use the full potential of your streaming subscriptions. 

The superior VPNs on Apple TV should also perform in three categories: native app availability (on new models), SmartDNS (on older models or apps not compatible with VPN), and performance (delivering speeds that can stream 4K/HD without buffers).

Apple TV VPN Performance: Key Data Points

1. Native App Revolution: With the launch of tvOS 17, the release of big apps like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark as native apps, elevating their apps to the number one position in installing a security app on the Apple TV has never been easier. It is truly a revolution of Native Apps.
2. Hybrid Technology: The leading VPNs use Smart DNS technology (sometimes referred to as SmartPlay or Mediastreamer) with their system. This is a secondary, less secure, but faster geo-unblocking technique that guarantees that access to content is not disrupted in any instance where a full VPN tunnel may be blocked or slowed down.

The Three Essential Methods for Apple TV VPN Setup

The optimal VPNs provide the three main varieties and are compatible with all models, 4K, HD and the outdated devices.

1. Native TVOS App (The Least Complicated Solution):

This is the desired approach to the Apple TV HD and Apple TV 4K with over 17 versions of tvOS. The only thing the user needs to do is download the VPN app onto the TV straight to the App Store and log-in and connect. This offers complete protection of encryption, and the security hope of the protocols of VPN.

2. Smart DNS (The Faster, Unencrypted Method):

The users of the older versions of Apple TVs, or those who favor speed over encryption, apply Smart DNS (e.g., MediaStreamer provided by ExpressVPN, or Smartplay DNS provided by NordVPN, etc.). Here, it will be done by altering the DNS configuration of the Apple TV itself. This technique covers your whereabouts to unlock the content but fails to secure your traffic, such that it can only be good in the area of streaming and cannot help secure privacy.

3. Set up of Router or Virtual router (The system-wide Method):

The most convenient one is the one that installs the VPN to the home Wi-Fi router. This protects all the devices attached to the network, the Apple TV, gaming devices, and smart devices without added software in the Apple TV. This necessitates a comparable router (usually loaded with custom software).

List of Top 15 VPN for Apple TV Platforms 

The selection of the following providers is due to their excellent support of all three setting options, their tvOS apps, and their 4K streaming.

1. NordVPN

• Website: https://nordvpn.com/
• Pricing: $2.99/month

NordVPN is considered to be the best VPN in general and with Apple TV in particular, because it has an inbuilt application of the tvOS and also SmartPlay technology. The NordLynx protocol is also a high-speed protocol that is both fast and stable to stream 4k dominating in speed tests. SmartPlay even commands DNS routing, which is automatically geo-unblocking to access a content library across the globe. Its ultra-secure stance, its self-auditing and RAM-only server architecture makes it the most powerful option regarding Apple TV security and consumption of media.

Key Features:

• Dedicated tvOS App (Native)
• NordLynx Protocol
• SmartPlay (Smart DNS/VPN Hybrid)
• Router Support
• 10 Parallel Connections

Pros:

• Highest recorded speeds
• Better 4K streaming stability
• Easy-to-use television remote interface
• Strong track record of security audits

Cons:

• The user interface map is complex to use with a remote
• Expensive renewal pricing for subscriptions

2. ExpressVPN

• Website: https://www.expressvpn.com/
• Pricing:$6.67/month 

We can recommend ExpressVPN as the best choice of reliability and ease on Apple TV. It also has a special tvOS app and the renowned MediaStreamer (Smart DNS) service, which is great for older Apple TV models or for maximizing streaming speed. Its proprietary Lightway protocol provides lightning-fast performance, which is essential for uninterrupted 4K streaming. As one of the most dependable options in the VPN for Apple TV category, ExpressVPN is highly recommended for users who want the strongest content-unblocking capabilities and a user-friendly, trustworthy solution across all generations of Apple TVs.

Key Features:

• Built-in tvOS Application (Native)
• Media Streamer (Smart DNS)
• Proprietary Lightway Protocol
• Router Support
• TrustedServer Technology (RAM-Only)

Pros:

• Easiest and most simplified across all three setup methods
• Extremely stable with very fast speeds
• Highly reliable for bypassing streaming blocks
• Router firmware is very user-friendly (Aircove)

Cons:

• Higher cost compared to main competitors
• Fewer simultaneous connections (8)

3. Surfshark

• Website: https://surfshark.com/
• Pricing: $2.19/month

Surfshark is a suitable and sound budget-friendly app to use in Apple TV, where users will have the premium features at a non-premium price. It offers an exclusive tvOS app and offers the exclusive advantage of unlimited simultaneous connections, which is ideal in ensuring that all devices within a house are covered. It has CleanWeb (ad/malware blocker) and Smart DNS with a powerful service that serves to improve the streaming experience and content accessibility (Surfshark). The combination of aggressive pricing and robust feature positioning makes it the most affordable VPN to use with the Apple TV system.

Key Features:

• Unlimited Simultaneous Connections
• Dedicated tvOS App (Native)
• Smart DNS Service
• WireGuard Protocol
• Router Compatibility
• CleanWeb (Ad/Malware Blocker)

Pros:

• Excellent price-to-value ratio
• Supports unlimited device connections
• Smooth and regularly updated native tvOS app
• Strong geo-unblocking capabilities

Cons:

• Speeds can be unpredictable on remote servers compared to NordVPN or ExpressVPN

4. Proton VPN

• Website: https://protonvpn.com/
• Pricing: $4.49/month 

Proton VPN is the best option for people who value privacy and transparency when using the Apple TV. It has a native application in the tvOS and is based on a potent Swiss jurisdiction. Although it does not have a specific Smart DNS implementation (it is better to use the entire VPN tunnel as it is security-enhancing), its WireGuard protocol provides quality streaming rates. It is a very good selection for users who put their trust more in the security assurances of an open-source, audited provider rather than other factors.

Key Features:

• Dedicated tvOS App (Native)
• Secure Core (Multi-Hop)
• Audited Open-Source App
• WireGuard Protocol
• NetShield (Malware and ad Blocker)
• Strong Router Support

Pros:

• State-of-the-art security architecture and strong jurisdiction
• Fully open-source with verified transparency
• Excellent performance on its TVOS application

Cons:

• No standalone Smart DNS service (requires full VPN use)
• More expensive than several competitors

5. Private Internet Access (PIA)

• Website: https://www.privateinternetaccess.com/
• Pricing: $2.03/month 

PIA is a versatile VPN for Apple TV users. Although it doesn’t yet offer a dedicated tvOS app, you can use it through Smart DNS or by configuring it on a compatible router. Its extensive server network and independently verified no-logs policy make it a dependable and privacy-focused choice. PIA also supports advanced router setups and delivers strong performance through the WireGuard protocol, making it especially suitable for tech-savvy users who prefer a customizable solution without installing an app directly.

Key Features:

• Incorporated Smart DNS Service
• Unlimited Concurrent Connections
• WireGuard Protocol
• MACE (Ad/Malware Blocker)
• Excellent Router Setup Instructions

Pros:

• Very low long-term pricing
• Proven and trustworthy privacy history
• Large server network for stable connections
• Includes Smart DNS for wider streaming compatibility

Cons:

• Requires router setup or Smart DNS for Apple TV
• The interface may feel complex for some users

6. CyberGhost

• Website: https://www.cyberghostvpn.com/
• Pricing: $2.19/month

CyberGhost boasts of a very easy-to-use Smart DNS connection and a huge server network and is so far the best to consume Apple TV media. Its strength is that it has specialty streaming servers (optimized to run on particular platforms and labelled accordingly in the main app) and a long 45-day money-back promise. CyberGhost is ideally suited to the needs of users whose main requirement is to be able to consume media easily and reliably.

Key Features:

• Smart DNS Service Included
• Dedicated Streaming Servers (Visible in Desktop App)
• 11,000+ Servers
• WireGuard Protocol
• Long 45-Day Money-Back Guarantee

Pros:

• Massive server network prevents overcrowding
• Strong streaming performance with dedicated servers
• Generous refund window
• Very user-friendly setup instructions

Cons:

• Apple TV must be configured manually via Smart DNS (no tvOS app)
• Speeds may fluctuate over long distances on non-optimized servers

7. IPVanish

• Website: https://www.ipvanish.com/
• Pricing: $3.33/month

IPVanish plays well with Apple TV, with a native app on the TVOS and prioritizing speed above all, and having complete ownership of the server. It provides an infinite connection, and the unique strength of the router is an excellent support. IPVanish owns and controls all its servers, and this provides it with close control over performance. The native tvOS application is practical and offers a straightforward method of connection, which is why it could be a convenient solution to the needs of users who would like to enjoy high speeds and have the ability to have total control over the network infrastructure at their disposal.

Key Features:

• Native App (tvOS)
• Unlimited Parallel Connections
• Own and Operated Server Network
• Outstanding Router Support
• WireGuard Protocol

Pros:

• Provides unlimited protection across all devices
• Fully owned hardware gives complete control over security and performance
• Delivers efficient speeds with reliable native applications

Cons:

• Does not offer a dedicated Smart DNS service
• More expensive than Surfshark for unlimited connections

Also Read: VPN for macOS

8. VyprVPN

• Website: https://www.vyprvpn.com/
• Pricing: $5.00/month

VyprVPN is an excellent VPN for Apple TV for users who prioritize router-level security. Although it operates through Smart DNS or router configurations, its proprietary Chameleon™ protocol is highly effective at bypassing strict network blocks, even on institutional or hotel Wi-Fi. VyprVPN owns 100 percent of its server network, is based in Switzerland, and follows an independently audited no-logs policy, making it one of the safest VPNs to configure on a router for Apple TV streaming.

Key Features:

• Chameleon Protocol (DPI Bypass)
• Full Server Ownership
• Smart DNS Service Included
• Strong Encryption for Router Configuration
• Swiss Jurisdiction

Pros:

• Industry-leading anti-censorship and firewall bypassing through router setups
• Strong privacy protection due to Swiss legal jurisdiction
• Complete control over infrastructure with fully owned server network

Cons:

• More expensive than average monthly VPN pricing
• Requires proper router configuration to achieve full performance potential

9. PrivateVPN

• Website: https://privatevpn.com/
• Pricing: $2.00/month

PrivateVPN is a rather inexpensive service that performs well in the area of stream-lined services and Smart DNS installation within the context of Apple TV. Its smaller network is offset by the fact that it is more effective in the provision of major services that are reliably unblocked. The company offers easy-to-use, step-by-step instructional resources on the setup of its Smart DNS, which makes the process of system setup easier among users who do not have the mindset of complex router configurations. PrivateVPN is also an outstanding choice to customers whose main interest lies in not paying a premium to access region-locked content.

Key Features:

• Good Streaming Unblocking Capability
• Smart DNS Platform
• Easy-to-Follow Setup Instructions
• Low Cost on Long-Term Subscriptions

Pros:

• Very effective at unblocking streaming servers
• Extremely affordable pricing
• Effortless Smart DNS installation

Cons:

• Small server network (under 200 servers)
• No native tvOS app

10. Mullvad VPN

• Website: https://mullvad.net/en/
• Pricing: $5.40/month

Mullvad VPN is the final privacy solution to Apple TV, which is also fully oriented towards the anonymity of the users. Although it does not have a Smart DNS feature or an app on TVOS, it is the best solution to the users who install its VPN on the router and are interested in staying anonymous. It gives us the opportunity to create an account with non-email and use either cash or crypto to pay. Mullvad offers great WireGuard settings when it comes to building a router, and it also supports RAM only servers, which makes its security unmatched throughout the network.

Key Features:

• No Email Account Creation (Anonymous)
• RAM-Only Servers
• WireGuard Protocol
• Audited No-Logs Policy
• Ideal for Router Installation

Pros:

• Unmatched anonymity and security
• Transparent, fixed pricing
• Strong WireGuard router support

Cons:

• No native tvOS app
• No Smart DNS feature
• Requires an additional monthly payment

11. TorGuard VPN

• Website: https://torguard.net/
• Pricing: $5.00/month 

TorGuard is a well-known VPN for Apple TV with extensive configuration options and special streaming IP addresses, which makes it highly effective when used through Smart DNS or router setup. TorGuard’s dedicated streaming IPs offer a stable and reliable geo-unblocking solution, ensuring consistent access to platforms like Netflix and Hulu. It supports up to 10 connections and is especially popular among technical users who want precise control and performance-oriented features.

Key Features:

• Smart DNS Service Included
• Optional Dedicated Streaming IPs
• Dynamic Port Forwarding Support
• Extensive Router Configuration Support

Pros:

• Highly customizable connection preferences
• Dedicated streaming IPs enhance stability and reliability
• Strong and effective security measures

Cons:

• Higher cost compared to competitors
• Less user-friendly for beginners
• No native tvOS application

12. Hide.me

• Website: https://hide.me/en/
• Pricing: $2.69/month

Hide.me is an aggressive, security-conscious competitor that offers support to Apple TV through Smart DNS and router setup. It has a very reliable service and it supports fast WireGuard protocol. Hide. ME is also independently audited and it is highly transparent thus making it a reliable option to securing the network traffic passing through the apple TV. It has a powerful free plan in use.

Key Features:

• Smart DNS Service Included
• WireGuard Protocol
• Audited No-Logs Policy
• Dynamic Port Forwarding
• Strong Kill Switch (Via Router)

Pros:

• Certified and transparent privacy policy
• High transparency with a stable Smart DNS service

Cons:

• Smaller server network compared to leading competitors
• Lacks manual configuration options

13. Windscribe

• Website: https://windscribe.com/
• Pricing: $5.75/month

Windscribe is a special Apple TV application, which is associated with its customization and ad block. Although it is based on Smart DNS or router configuration, the ad-blocking system provided (R.O.B.E.R.T.), which is DNS-based, is very efficient in enhancing streaming experience by stopping ad servers. Windscribe has a generous free plan and allows an unlimited number of connections on the paid plan, rendering it one of the value-rich features of the whole household network.

Key Features:

• R.O.B.E.R.T. (Ad/Malware Blocker)
• Unlimited Simultaneous Connections
• Included Smart DNS
• Generous 10GB Free Tier (For Testing)

Pros:

• Strong built-in ad and malware blocking
• Generous free trial allowance
• Highly customizable features

Cons:

• A yearly paid plan is relatively expensive
• Requires manual setup on Apple TV

14. IVPN

• Website: https://www.ivpn.net/
• Pricing: $6.00/month 

The extreme transparency and dedication to privacy that IVPN offers are highly valued by security experts, making it an excellent VPN for Apple TV when configured through an advanced router setup. IVPN is based in Gibraltar, operates under a strictly audited no-logs policy, and maintains its own infrastructure. It supports the WireGuard protocol and includes a full Multi-hop feature. This service is best suited for users who prioritize open-source validation, granular control over their network connections, and strong protection against surveillance.

Key Features:

• Anti-Tracker (Multi-Hop)
• Hardened Mode
• Audited No-Logs Policy
• WireGuard Protocol
• Easy Router Documentation

Pros:

• Exceptional transparency and strong open-source commitment
• Excellent security implementation with an effective Anti-Tracker tool
• High-performance speeds with WireGuard

Cons:

• Higher pricing compared to competitors
• Smaller server network size
• No native tvOS application

15. PureVPN

• Website: https://www.purevpn.com/
• Pricing: $1.96/month

PureVPN has one of the cheapest long-term deals as far as the Apple TV is concerned, offering decent performance at a relatively low entry-level cost. It has a massive list of servers (more than 6,500) and accommodates the WireGuard protocol. PureVPN has vastly improved its transparency as it is under an independently audited no-logs policy. Its major strength lies in its low price, wide international coverage, and solid system of Smart DNS installation to be a good, inexpensive option of a stable international connection.

Key Features:

• Extremely Cheap Long-Term Packages
• Included Smart DNS Service
• 6,500+ Servers
• WireGuard Protocol
• Audited No-Logs Policy

Pros:

• Very affordable pricing on long-term plans
• Large server network provides strong geographic coverage
• Independently audited for privacy assurance

Cons:

• Speeds may fluctuate on certain servers
• Customer support can be slow at times

The VPN for Apple TV Comparison Table 

VPN Provider	Lowest Monthly Price (Approx.)	Key Protocol	Native tvOS App (v17+)	Smart DNS Service Included?	Best For
1. NordVPN	$2.99	NordLynx	Yes	Yes (SmartPlay)	Best Overall Performance
2. ExpressVPN	$6.67	Lightway	Yes	Yes (MediaStreamer)	Speed & Router Reliability
3. Surfshark	$2.19	WireGuard	Yes	Yes	Best Value / Unlimited Devices
4. Proton VPN	$4.49	WireGuard	Yes	No (Prefers Full VPN)	Ultimate Privacy & Security
5. Private Internet Access (PIA)	$2.03	WireGuard	No	Yes	Customization & Affordability
6. CyberGhost	$2.19	WireGuard	No	Yes	Streaming & Large Network
7. IPVanish	$3.33	WireGuard	Yes	No	Owned Network / Unlimited Devices
8. VyprVPN	$5.00	Chameleon™	No	Yes	Censorship Bypass (Router)
9. PrivateVPN	$2.00	OpenVPN	No	Yes	Budget Streaming
10. Mullvad VPN	$5.40 (Fixed)	WireGuard	No	No	Anonymity (Router Focus)
11. TorGuard VPN	$5.00	WireGuard	No	Yes	Technical Users / Dedicated Streaming
12. Hide.me	$2.69	WireGuard	No	Yes	Transparency & Reliability
13. Windscribe	$5.75	WireGuard	No	Yes	Ad Blocking / Feature Rich
14. IVPN	$6.00	WireGuard	No	No	Extreme Transparency
15. PureVPN	$1.96	WireGuard	No	Yes	Lowest Long-Term Price

Conclusion: Securing the Apple Ecosystem

As users look for ways to bypass regional content restrictions with increased privacy and uninterrupted video experiences, a good VPN has become critical for Apple TV owners of every model generation. Native VPN apps have only recently been supported since tvOS 17 and newer models, making easy access to secure, high-speed streaming even more accessible. For older models, both Smart DNS and router configurations are still very viable ways to unlock international libraries and heighten online safety. 

Whether you prefer the simplicity of dedicated apps, the flexibility of router-level control, or advanced privacy-focused protocols, the right VPN for Apple TV ensures smooth 4K playback, stable connections, and consistent access to platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and more. By selecting a service that offers robust security features, audited no-logs policies, and optimized performance, users get to enjoy a more open, highly customizable, and above all, much safer streaming environment with their Apple TV device.

FAQs

Why Is The Lightway Protocol Frequently Suggested To Be Used With iOS Devices?

The protocol of ExpressVPN (called Lightway) is suggested since it is lightweight, fast, and capable of using very minimal battery. It also remains fast and stable, and is an efficient Apple Silicon user, which is one of the primary concerns of MacBook users.

Should The Native IKEv2 Connection Configuration Be Sufficient In macOS Use Every macOS?

No. Although macOS has native support for connections via IKEv2 through Settings, the operating system lacks essential features such as a customizable Kill Switch, advanced DNS leak protection, and built-in obfuscation tools. These are crucial for ensuring a trusted service and effective geo-unblocking.

Why Should A VPN Have An Included Ad/Malware Blocker (Threat Protection, R.O.B.E.R.T.)?

These tools scan and block disguised domains, ads, and trackers at the DNS level before they load in your browser. This provides an additional protective layer alongside antivirus software and speeds up browsing by preventing irrelevant content from loading.

Define TrustedServer Technology (RAM-Only Servers)?

A RAM-only server is a privacy-focused setup where the VPN server operates entirely on volatile memory (RAM) instead of standard hard drives. Because RAM cannot store data permanently, all user data and logs are erased automatically whenever the server reboots, meaning the provider cannot store or retrieve logs.

Why Is VyprVPN The Perfect Provider When It Comes To Getting Around Censorship On A Mac?

VyprVPN stands out due to its proprietary Chameleon™ protocol. This technology is specifically engineered to evade Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) used by heavily censored networks, disguising VPN metadata to resemble regular web traffic and ensuring reliable access even under strict censorship.