5 Best VPNs for Nvidia Shield (Fast and Unlimited Streaming)

Many people use Nvidia VPNs with their Shield digital media players to get a better online experience – they secure their traffic and unblock geo-locked content (Netflix, Hulu, Kodi, Amazon Prime, and more).

But with literally hundreds of VPNs on the market, it’s hard to tell which one to use. We’ll try to make things simpler for you by showcasing the best VPNs for Shield TV devices.

Best VPNs For Nvidia Shield in 2024

1. NordVPN – the best Nvidia Shield VPN.
2. Surfshark – use it to unblock content on unlimited devices.
3. AtlasVPN – A great budget choice.
4. PrivateVPN – easy-to-use VPN for Nvidia Shield.
5. ExpressVPN – very user-friendly and has fast speeds.

How I Tested and Picked the Best VPN for Shield TV

These are the factors I took into account when testing the best VPNs for Nvidia Shield:

• Android support: Ensure the VPN works on Android, ideally with an Android TV app for a seamless experience.
• Fast speeds & unlimited data: Opt for a VPN with unlimited bandwidth and fast protocols (like WireGuard, L2TP/IPSec, or IKEv2/IPSec) for smooth HD and 4K streaming.
• Large server network: More servers mean faster speeds and access to content from various locations.
• Good security: Look for strong encryption (AES-256 or ChaCha20) and a kill switch to prevent data leaks if the VPN disconnects.
• No logs: Choose a VPN that doesn’t monitor your online activities or log your IP address, and consider those that undergo security audits for added trustworthiness.
• Streaming support: Prioritize VPNs that can unblock streaming services besides Nvidia Shield.
• Money-back guarantee: Consider providers with no-questions-asked 30-day money-back guarantees to make trusting the VPN easier.

What’s the Best VPN for Nvidia Shield – our detailed list:

We checked 20+ top VPNs to see which ones offer the best streaming experience on Nvidia Shield. After dozens of tests, we concluded these are the best VPNs for Nvidia Shield:

1. NordVPN

NordVPN is the best overall VPN for Nvidia Shield. It is a top pick for lightning-fast streaming and unbeatable security. Leveraging, both, NordLynx and OpenVPN protocols, it ensures a seamless experience on Android TV and other smart TVs.

Security: NordVPN utilizes AES-256 encryption, analogous to bank-grade security. It provides a robust security with its RAM servers, Kill Switch, and Threat Protection. Though its Android TV app lacks a Kill Switch, for content unblocking (the primary use of VPNs on smart TVs), it’s not a significant concern.

Privacy: Uncompromising on privacy, NordVPN conducts no logging of user data and is strategically located outside the intrusive Fourteen Eyes jurisdiction in Panama. Its commitment to privacy is validated by three independent audits.

Performance: With a download speed of 248.7 Mbps and an upload speed of 126.7 Mbps in the US, streaming is really fast. Features like split tunneling on Windows and Android, facilitate efficient network traffic management for optimal performance.

Features: NordVPN’s obfuscated servers, Double VPN servers, and ability to work in restricted regions elevate it above competitors in terms of flexibility and use in restrictive regions.

Streaming: Owing to SmartPlay technology and access to various Netflix libraries, NordVPN bests other VPNs for unlimited streaming. It reliably unblocks Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, HBO Max, and more.

Pricing: NordVPN’s feature-rich offering comes at a reasonable price, with packages from $4.99 to $14.99 per month based on length and plan complexity. For staunch privacy advocates, payment can be made in Cryptocurrencies.

Plan	1-year plan	1-month plan	2-year plan
Standard Plan	$4.99/month	$12.99/month	–
Plus Plan	$5.99/month	$13.99/month	–
Complete Plan	$6.99/month	$14.99/month	$5.49/month

2. Surfshark

Surfshark is one of the best Nvidia Shield VPNs because it offers high-speed streaming and compatibility with Nvidia devices.

Security: Surfshark is equipped with robust security features including AES-256-GCM encryption and a kill switch. Advanced protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, and WireGuard ensure you’re protected on Nvidia Shield devices. Other features include:

Privacy: Privacy is well catered to with Surfshark’s no-logs policy, private DNS on each server, IP masking, and even GPS spoofing on Android.

Performance: With top speeds of 235 Mbps download and 219 Mbps upload in the US, Surfshark ensures smooth, lag-free streaming on Nvidia Shield. The versatile protocol offerings ensure a reliable performance.

Features: Beyond security and privacy, Surfshark stands out with unlimited device connections, 24/7 customer support, Whitelister, and NoBorders mode for use in restricted regions.

Streaming: Surfshark excels in streaming capabilities; it unblocks Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video and has a Smart DNS service. With over 3,200 servers in 65 countries, geo-blocked content is a thing of the past.

Pricing: The pricing structure caters to different needs, offering Surfshark Starter, Surfshark One, and Surfshark One+ packages. Prices range from $2.30/month to $22.95/month, with a 30-day money-back guarantee, making Surfshark a cost-effective option for Nvidia Shield.

Surfshark Plans	2-year price	1-year price	1-month price
Starter	$2.30/month	$3.99/month	$12.95/month
Surfshark One	$3.22/month	$4.49/month	$17.95/month
Surfshark One+	$5.99/month	$8.29/month	$22.95/month

3. AtlasVPN

AtlasVPN stands out as one most affordable choices for Nvidia Shield and its fast speeds, unlimited streaming, and capability to unblock numerous platforms including Netflix, Hulu, and HBO Max.

Security: AtlasVPN has security features including AES-256 encryption, a system-wide kill switch, and WireGuard protocol for fast and secure connectivity.

Privacy: Notably, AtlasVPN maintains a strict no-logs policy, and includes a unique IP rotator (SafeSwap), data breach monitoring, and tracker blocker to offer optimal privacy levels for Shield users.

Performance: With a striking upload speed of 309 Mbps and OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2 protocols, AtlasVPN ensures high performance and stability.

Features: Aside from security and speed, AtlasVPN provides other advanced features like Dark web monitoring and Email Breach Check features that contribute to data safety.

Streaming: It stands strong among competitors by offering stable streaming performance, unlocking multiple streaming platforms and geo-restricted content, and supporting Android TV and Amazon’s Fire Stick.

Pricing: AtlasVPN offers flexible plans starting from $1.82/month for the 2-year package. Moreover, it provides a free version with a 5 GB data limit and access to three locations, offering generous affordability.

AtlasVPN Plans	Pricing	Additional Benefits
Free Version	0.00$/month	5 GB data limit Access to 3 locations
1-Month Plan	11.99$/month	30-day money-back guarantee
1-Year Plan	3.29$/month Billed $39.48 annually	30-day money-back guarantee
2-Year Plan	1.82$/month Billed $43.68 biennially	30-day money-back guarantee

4. PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN has excellent security features and access to unlimited fast and safe streaming.

Security: PrivateVPN ensures maximum protection with features like AES 256-bit encryption, a reliable kill switch, and robust protection against IP and IPv6 leaks. It also provides an option for customizable encryption levels.

• Installable Kill Switch on Android app
• HTTP and SOCKS5 proxy for added security

Privacy: PrivateVPN safeguards users’ privacy with the help of a strict no-logs policy and a stealth VPN mode that disguises VPN traffic as regular web traffic enhancing online anonymity.

Performance: Download speeds were recorded at 148 Mbps and upload speeds up to 190 Mbps in the United States. The wide range of protocols, including OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP/IPSec, and WireGuard (still in beta), ensures optimal connection every time.

Features: Other standout features of PrivateVPN include dedicated servers for P2P traffic/torrenting and port forwarding support. It further scores with ten simultaneous connections and options for a dedicated IP address.

Streaming: Streaming is seamless, thanks to the fast video loading capabilities. PrivateVPN makes bypassing Netflix, Disney+, and other geo-restrictive services easy. A useful tool for users in China and for those who want to access multiple Netflix libraries.

Pricing: PrivateVPN offers affordable plans: a 1-month plan at $9.90/month, a 3-month plan for $6.00/month, and a 36-month plan at $2.00/month. It also comes with a 7-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Multiple payment methods are available.

PrivateVPN Plans	Price per Month
1-Month Plan	$9.90
3-Month Plan	$6.00
36-Month Plan	$2.00

5. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN stands out as a top VPN for Nvidia Shield due to its fast speeds and security. An excellent Android TV app, powerful encryption, and unlimited data make it a powerful VPN. However, the price might seem too steep for some.

Security: ExpressVPN has military-grade AES-256 GCM encryption and a robust kill switch, ensuring any traffic leaks are averted. With all its servers running on RAM (TrustedServer technology), your data isn’t stored on hard drives minimizing any security risks.

Privacy: Privacy is a strong point for ExpressVPN. It takes pride in a no-logs policy, ensuring your browsing data is never stored. In addition, ExpressVPN has undergone independent audits by PwC and Cure53, strengthening its privacy credibility.

Performance: If speed matters to you, ExpressVPN boasts download speeds of 137 Mbps and upload speeds of 162 Mbps in the United States. Utilizing the Lightway and OpenVPN protocols guarantees high-speed performance for various use cases, including streaming on Nvidia Shield.

Features: Additional features worth noting include compatibility with various devices and platforms, up to 8 simultaneous connections, and 24/7 support. Browser extensions are available for Chrome, Brave, Opera, Edge, and Firefox.

Streaming: Unblocking major platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Disney+, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer is a breeze with ExpressVPN. It also supports changing Netflix regions and doesn’t require a specialized streaming server.

Pricing: While its pricing might seem higher than competitors, ExpressVPN offers value in its comprehensive feature set. Pricing plans include a 1-month plan at $12.95/month, a 6-month plan at $9.99/month, and a 1-year plan at $6.67/month. For peace of mind, they provide a 30-day money-back guarantee.

ExpressVPN Plans	Price per Month	Simultaneous Connections
1-Month Plan	$12.95	5
6-Month Plan	$9.99	Up to 8
1-Year Plan	$6.67	Up to 8

How to Install a VPN on Nvidia Shield TV

1. Subscribe to a good VPN for Nvidia (we recommend NordVPN).
2. Find the provider’s Android TV app on the Google Play Store.
3. Download and install it. Accept all the permission requests.
4. Connect to a VPN server and start browsing the web.

How to Set Up a VPN on Nvidia Shield TV (Manual Process)

If the VPN doesn’t have an Android TV app, you can sideload it on your smart TV. Here’s how:

1. Use your laptop, Mac, or PC to access the VPN’s site.
2. Download the provider’s Android APK file to a USB flash drive. Eject the flash drive when you’re done.
3. Head to Settings > Security and Restrictions on your Nvidia Shield.
4. Enable Unknown sources. If a warning appears, press OK.
5. Open the app store from the home screen.
6. Install either one of these apps: FX File Explorer or ES File Explorer.
7. Now, insert the USB flash drive into the Nvidia Shield.
8. Use the file explorer app you installed to head to your USB drive.
9. Open the VPN provider’s Android APK file.
10. Wait for the installation to finish and hit Open.
11. Use the VPN app. The interface might feel a bit clunky because this app was made for phones, not TVs.

Can I Use a VPN for Nvidia Shield On My Router?

Yes, you can set up the VPN on your router. This way, every time you use the Nvidia Shield to go online, it will automatically use the router’s VPN connection.

However, we recommend using the Android TV app or the sideloading method instead.

Why?

Because using the VPN on your router will result in slower speeds. The VPN doesn’t just encrypt your smart TV connection. It encrypts all the traffic that goes through your router – your PC, smartphone, laptop, gaming console, tablet, and any other smart devices you have in your home.

Also, setting up a VPN on a router is pretty difficult (yes, it’s much harder than the sideloading method). To find out how to do it, check your provider’s guides. We can’t offer you a tutorial because the setup process varies from service to service and router to router.

Related read: Best VPN for Nvidia GeForce Now

FAQs

We came across many FAQs when researching this topic, so we decided to answer most of them here. If you have more questions, just leave a comment and we’ll get back to you.

Do I Need a VPN for Nvidia Shield?

You need a VPN for Nvidia Shield if you want to unblock geo-locked content on streaming apps like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime. A VPN hides your IP, so streaming services can’t tell what country you are from.

You should also use a VPN for Nvidia if your ISP is throttling your bandwidth. The VPN encrypts your traffic, so your ISP can’t monitor it. If they don’t know what you’re using data on, they can’t selectively slow down your connections.

Does Nvidia Shield Support VPNs?

Not directly, no. The digital media player doesn’t natively support VPN apps. 

However, Nvidia Shield runs the Android OS that’s powered by Android TV. If you use a VPN that has an Android TV app, you can use it together with Nvidia Shield. If they don’t have an Android TV app, you’ll need to use sideloading (with APK files) or set up the VPN on your router.

Can I Also Get an Nvidia Shield TV Pro VPN?

Yes, you can. Nvidia Shield TV Pro is just an upgraded version of Nvidia Shield TV. So Android TV VPN apps that run on Nvidia Shield TV will also run on the Pro version.

As for the differences between the two devices, Nvidia Shield TV Pro has more RAM, more internal storage, and two USB ports.

Why Is My VPN Not Working on Nvidia Shield?

Common issues include seeing proxy error messages when unblocking sites, the VPN app crashing, or the VPNs being very slow and freezing.

Here’s what Nvidia Shield users recommend trying:

• Uninstall and reinstall the VPN app.
• Update the VPN app.
• Connect to a different VPN server.
• See if the VPN works on other devices (if it doesn’t, the problem is with the VPN).
• Use the VPN on your router instead of the smart TV.
• Reach out to Nvidia and the VPN provider’s support teams.

Can You Use Blokada Together with an Nvidia Shield VPN?

Blokada is a free ad blocker for iOS and Android (so it works on Android TV). It’s efficient, but it doesn’t work well with a VPN. According to some users, Blokada uses the VPN API, and Android only allows one VPN API at a time. The conflict causes VPN connectivity issues.

So, you have to choose between Blokada and an Nvidia VPN.

The good news is many VPNs have their own ad blocker and offer it on their Android TV apps. If the VPN you’re using doesn’t have one, install the Firefox browser and use uBlock Origin (a very efficient ad blocker).

Can I Use a Free VPN for Nvidia Shield?

Yes, but we don’t recommend it. Free VPNs aren’t good for streaming because they have slow speeds (pretty much all their servers are overcrowded). Also, free VPNs use bandwidth caps – usually around 500 MB or 2 GB per month. That’s barely enough to watch a few episodes of your favorite shows!

What’s more, some free VPNs can put your data at risk. They log it and sell it to advertisers. Sometimes, they can even expose you to malware.

Stick with paid Shield TV VPNs instead. All the services we mentioned in this article have risk-free money-back guarantees. So, you have enough time to test the VPNs to make sure they work well for you.