Hotstar, also known as Disney+ Hotstar, is an Indian subscription service packed with on-demand sports, TV shows, and movies. It launched back in 2015 with the initial plan of being a cricket broadcasting platform. However, due to its huge popularity, Hotstar has gone on to become much more than this, with a whole catalog of content to choose from. The platform has 34 million paid subscriptions but over 200 million active users enjoying all of its features.
There is a lot to like about Hotstar, beyond its fantastic content. It is easy to use and available on several different devices, perfect for streaming on the go in India. Unfortunately, this is the bad news; Hotstar is only available in India, with those outside India missing out. Although there are many alternatives to Hotstar in other countries, few streaming services in the world contain as much content in one place. Because of this, many users across the world want to watch Hotstar, and understandably so.
So how exactly do you go about doing this? It all starts with finding the best VPN to watch Hotstar. Not every VPN has servers in India, and some have substantially better security features, so it’s important to take a close look before you subscribe. In this helpful guide, we have done the hard work for you. We have tried and tested many different VPN services and narrowed it down to the best VPN to watch Hotstar. Keep reading to find out what they are. Show more
Below you will find a list of the very best VPNs to access Hotstar outside India. Each of these VPN providers has been subject to our strict review criteria and has proven to be a fantastic option for Hotstar.
| Max Speed: | 115000 Mbps |
|---|---|
| Type of IP offered: | Dedicated |
| Simultaneous connections / Users: | 6 |
| Number of Netflix Libraries: | 12 |
| Information sharing: | None |
| OS support: | Android, iOS, Linux, macOS, Windows |
Ultra-fast connection
No-logs policy
5400 servers in 54 countries
Limited payment options
No Split Tunneling on desktop
Only 6 simultaneous connection
If you want the safest and most secure VPN connection, there is, we highly recommend NordVPN. Although all premium VPN services come packed with tools to protect your privacy, none quite match the power that NordVPN has.
Instead of a couple of great security features, NordVPN offers them all on every VPN server. We’re talking about 256-bit AES encryption, a network kill switch, a no-logs policy, and private DNS.
The NordVPN servers also support split tunneling, allowing you to stream Hotstar while still surfing local websites. This works by selecting which apps you want to bypass the VPN connection and is particularly helpful if you want to watch content but still check the news in your own country, for example.
There are two server locations in India; Chennai and Mumbai. Neither have any data limits or speed restrictions so that you can stream movies, shows, and sports easily without any delays.
Up to 7 simultaneous connections are included with a NordVPN subscription, and it’s compatible with most popular devices and operating systems. There are purpose-built apps for Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, and iOS. So, whether it’s cricket matches you want to watch or any other content on Hotstar, NordVPN makes it incredibly easy to do so. It’s as simple as launching the app, choosing a server location, and clicking connect.
A standard subscription for NordVPN is a little cheaper than the competition, coming in at $11.95 per month. However, you can reduce the monthly expenditure by committing to an annual plan, and every purchase comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
| Max Speed: | 58000 Mbps |
|---|---|
| Type of IP offered: | Dedicated |
| Simultaneous connections / Users: | 5 |
| Number of Netflix Libraries: | 12 |
| Information sharing: | None |
| OS support: | Android, ChromeOS, iOS, Linux, macOS, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows |
Tons of payment options
24-hour live chat suppot
30-day money back guarantee
More expensive than competitors
Only 5 simultaneous connections
No servers in Russia
ExpressVPN has over 3,000 worldwide servers to choose from, including 2 in India covering Chennai and Mumbai. With a name like ExpressVPN, the speed expectations were high, and this VPN provider did not disappoint.
Not only are the ExpressVPN servers fast, but the service also promises completely unlimited bandwidth with no throttling. Very few VPNs can provide this level of interrupted streaming, but ExpressVPN passed every speed and connection reliability test. This is made even better because you can connect up to five devices simultaneously, meaning that the entire family can benefit from the server network and watch Hotstar.
As well as impressive server coverage and limitless content, ExpressVPN also tops the charts when it comes to security too. The company operates a strict no-logs policy, so none of your browsing information is stored, including your IP address and location. All that is required to get started with ExpressVPN is an email address and payment method; there is no sensitive information logged or shared with any third parties.
An internet kill switch is included, designed to keep your internet traffic protected at all times. The kill switch will temporarily cut your internet if the VPN connection drops, meaning that Hotstart doesn’t get a chance to detect that you’re spoofing your location. In addition, 256-bit AES encryption and DNS leak protection are available on every server, so you can watch Hotstar without ever having to worry about your privacy.
ExpressVPN is compatible with most major devices and operating systems, including; Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, and iOS. So whichever device you’re using to access Hotstar, you will be protected. A subscription to ExpressVPN costs $12.95 per month if you opt for a monthly plan but is reduced to as little as $8.32 per month with an annual plan. There is also a 30-day money-back guarantee included as standard.
| Max Speed: | Unlimited |
|---|---|
| Type of IP offered: | Shared |
| Simultaneous connections / Users: | Unlimited |
| Number of Netflix Libraries: | 15 |
| Information sharing: | None |
| OS support: | Amazon Fire TV, Android, Android TV, ChromeOS, iOS, Linux, macOS, Windows |
Full 15 Netflix Libraries
Tons of server locations
Great deal on 24 months
No Apple Pay Payment Option
Very expensive monthly
Allows P2P from all servers
Surfshark servers cover over 65 countries, but it’s the servers in India that matter if you want to unblock Hotstar. The great thing is that Surfshark has 3 of them in Mumbai, Chennai, and Indore. This way, if you are outside India, you have a selection of servers and IP addresses to choose from instead of being limited to just one.
Each server is also provided with 256-bit AES encryption, the highest level of network security possible. This is further enhanced with private DNS and a dedicated IP address for every connection.
Speed isn’t a problem with Surfshark either. There are no bandwidth or speed restrictions so that you can watch Indian Premier League Cricket or your other favorite shows on Hotstar seamlessly.
You can also choose your own connection protocol from the following options; IKEV2, OpenVPN, Shadowsocks, and Wireguard. Wireguard is one of the newest protocols and isn’t available with every VPN service. What we like most about Surfshark is the fact that it allows its users to connect an unlimited number of simultaneous devices. This way, you can stream Hotstar on every PC, laptop, and mobile in your household.
As well as great speeds and tight security, Surfshark perform best in the area of usability and service. There isn’t an easier VPN app out there, with the Surfshark app being perfect even for beginners. The app is also compatible with most devices, including popular Apple and Android phones.
If help any is needed, Surfshark also provides 24/7 live chat support in English and other languages. You can access Hotstar in just seconds with the one-click connect functionality, and as far as a VPN goes, Surfshark tops the charts for reliability.
You may be wondering how much this kind of service costs, but we think you will be pleasantly surprised. A subscription to Surfshark is $12.95 per month but can be purchased for less on annual or two-year plans. A 30-day money-back guarantee is also provided.
| Max Speed: | Unlimited |
|---|---|
| Type of IP offered: | Dedicated |
| Simultaneous connections / Users: | 7 |
| Number of Netflix Libraries: | 4 |
| Information sharing: | None |
| OS support: | Amazon Fire TV, Android, Android TV, iOS, Linux, macOS, Windows |
Servers in unusual countries
Great support options
Great blog and guide universe
Limited payment options
Poor press area for affiliates
Few Netflix libraries
CyberGhost is one of the best VPNs to stream Hotstar, thanks to its breakneck speeds and equally-as-impressive security features. Although Cyberghost only has a server location in 1 Indian city (Mumbai), there are 16 different servers to choose from. This means that there’s always a backup if a server is down, so you can always access your favorite TV shows and content.
The whole network was designed with streaming in mind, so CyberGhost doesn’t only work with Hotstar but also with other streaming platforms. There are no speed limits, so as long as you have a stable internet connection, you can watch Hotstar without interruption.
As well as granting access to Hotstar India and providing lightning-fast speeds, CyberGhost knows a thing or two about user security and privacy.
Not only does every VPN server come with 256-bit encryption, but there’s no user data stored, and everybody benefits from a dedicated IP address and private DNS. Having both of these means that you are not at risk of receiving an IP ban because of somebody else’s actions; your IP is unique to you. Private DNS also helps to combat hacking attempts and other security threats. These safety tools and services are something that CyberGhost does very well.
CyberGhost is one of the best VPN providers we have looked at and is perfect for streaming shows and all other internet traffic. You can unblock Hotstar on any device and connect up to 5 simultaneously using one CyberGhost subscription. It is priced at $12.99 per month but can be purchased for $7.99 monthly when you opt for a 6-month plan. An extended 45-day money-back guarantee is included and can be triggered by contacting customer service.
| Max Speed: | Unlimited |
|---|---|
| Type of IP offered: | Dynamic |
| Simultaneous connections / Users: | 5 |
| Number of Netflix Libraries: | 13 |
| Information sharing: | 14 Eyes Member |
| OS support: | Amazon Fire TV, Android, Android TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, ChromeOS, iOS, Linux, macOS, Windows |
Lightning fast VPN
Optimized for streaming
PayPal payment option
Poor support
14-eyes VPN
Only 5 devices
Hotspot Shield is renowned for being one of the fastest VPN services on the market, and our tests confirmed this. You can stream Hotstar live or on-demand with just the click of a button, and the powerful server network will keep you connected throughout. The Indian server is located in Mumbai, but unfortunately, there are no other locations in India. That said, this is all you need to be able to unblock Hotstar, and Hotspot Shield does so without incident.
Each user can benefit from premium privacy features, including no-logging of personal data and tools to combat phishers and hackers. There is 256-bit AES encryption included as standard and a network kill switch and a no-logs policy. All of this means that your personal information, browsing data, IP address, and real location are kept under wraps throughout your connection. As a result, there is no safer way to browse.
Unlike some other VPNs, there are absolutely no limits with Hotspot Shield. This means unlimited data and streaming while using this VPN. The apps are straightforward to use across all devices and are compatible with best-selling mobile and computer devices. Live chat is available if any additional help is needed to get connected or to access Hotstar.
Hotspot Shield provides users with a 45-day money-back guarantee, despite most providers only allowing 30 days. Subscription costs range between $7.99 and $19.99 depending on the level of cover required, and there is a completely free 7-day trial up for grabs too.
| Max Speed: | Unlimited |
|---|---|
| Type of IP offered: | Shared |
| Simultaneous connections / Users: | Unlimited |
| Number of Netflix Libraries: | 13 |
| Information sharing: | 5 Eyes Member |
| OS support: | Amazon Fire TV, Android, ChromeOS, FireOS, iOS, Linux, macOS, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Windows, Xbox 360, Xbox One |
Awesome customer support
Netflix approved
Unlimited devices
No free trial unless you buy 24 months
Limited payment options
5-eyes member
It’s best if Hotstar doesn’t detect that you’re using a VPN, and IPVanish is the perfect way to guarantee this. It has almost 2,000 servers across the world, including 2 in New Delhi and 6 in Mumbai. Each server includes full 256-bit AES encryption for the highest levels of security, and there are more premium features available. A network kill switch will help you to fly under the radar, and a range of VPN protocols can be selected for different activities, from streaming to file sharing.
Unlike some VPN services that will slow you down, IPVanish gives users complete freedom when it comes to data. There are no limits on speed either, so you can enjoy all of the Hotstar content without worrying about slowing down.
One subscription to IPVanish supports up to 6 simultaneous connections, and its user-friendly app is available on all popular devices and operating systems like Windows, IOS, and Android. Another great perk with IPVanish is the 24/7 live chat support if you need any technical help.
With IPVanish, you get all of the premium perks of a great VPN but at a budget price. A monthly plan costs $3.19 on the first month and then $9.99 every month following, making this one of the cheapest on the market. A yearly plan costs $28.79 per year, followed by an annual $89.99 fee. There is a 3o-day risk-free period, but unfortunately, this only applies to the annual plan.
As we already mentioned, to stream Hotstar outside India, a VPN is a requirement. Without one, you will be presented with an error message if you try to access the platform in another country. This is known as a geo-restriction and is common across other streaming services like Netflix and YouTube. So for that reason, you need to use Hotstar with a VPN, whether it be because you’re not an Indian resident or even that you are and have left the country on vacation or business.
Being able to access Hotstar is just the beginning. Keeping your internet connection secure as you stream is an absolute priority. Of course, your Internet Service Provider will have standard levels of security, but VPNs provide so much more. This means that you’re less likely to fall victim to threats such as viruses and hackers. The anonymity of using a VPN also means that you don’t get pestered with targeted advertisements or cookies. The need for such tools is even more important if you plan on watching Hotstar using public wifi at school, college, or work, for example.
You might be surprised to find that a streaming VPN can actually provide a faster and more stable internet connection than your standard provider alone. This is because of the technology built into a VPN server, as they are designed to enhance your browsing and streaming experience. So, in a nutshell, not only can you unlock Hotstar using a VPN in any country, but you can benefit from a safer connection and faster speeds.
Our methodology remains mostly the same throughout our VPN provider reviews, but we look for some additional things in a VPN for Hotstar specifically. Here is a brief overview of our criteria:
A VPN requires specific software to work on mobile, and not all great PC VPNs transfer well to mobile. The good news is that every single VPN on our recommended list work perfectly on mobile devices. They have been tried with IOS and Android and provide the same safety, security, and privacy on both. This means that you can take Hotstar with you everywhere, ready to be enjoyed at the click of a button. Remember that each operating system has its own apps, so be sure to download the latest version and the correct app for your particular device.
No, it doesn’t. As long as the VPN server is in India, you will gain access to Hotstar. What is important is that you connect to the fastest and most reliable server available to you in India, which may take some trial and error. The exact location of the server within India is irrelevant.
No, watching Hotstar with a VPN is not illegal. However, despite not being against the law, using a VPN does break the Hotstar terms of service. If detected, you could face an IP address ban or a complete account closure. Internet Service Providers also aren’t huge fans of VPNs, so it’s best if you keep your virtual connection a secret. This is done by using a VPN with strong security and privacy tools, such as a network kill switch.
Although there is probably some risky software out there, every VPN recommended on this list is 100% genuine, safe and secure. These are VPNs that have been developed by large and reputable internet security companies and are no risk to users whatsoever. Remember to familiarise yourself with the terms of use and get to grips with certain privacy aspects, such as the no-logs policy. Each provider is on this list is tried, tested, and recommended by our expert team.
There are alternative streaming services available in India, including Netflix. However, Hotstar is the biggest by a country mile. It has the largest selection of content of any services available in India, and it has the added perk of including sports like cricket, which is incredibly popular in the country. Although some people opt to have a subscription with multiple streaming services, you should have everything you need with Hotstar.
If you're new to the world of VPNs, don't worry, as it's simple to get set up. Follow the below instructions to get started with a VPN for Hotstar:
Free VPNs are not designed for streaming, and it's unlikely you will be able to access Hotstar. Free VPNs limit users in many areas, including servers, speeds, and bandwidth. So although a free VPN may be tempting, it will not work to stream Hotstar. You will face many interruptions, slow speeds, and error messages. You need a VPN that can handle high amounts of bandwidth, and free VPNs do not. We recommend you use Hotstar with a VPN that appears on our list.
No, unfortunately not. Hotstar is exclusively available in India and cannot be accessed in any other country without VPN apps. This is because of publishing rights prohibiting Hotstar from streaming its content worldwide. A VPN will allow you to watch Hotstar from anywhere in the world, but without one, only those in India can enjoy the platform.
Hi there! I'm Monique, and I am a writer at VPNSurfers. I live in New York, but I'm originally from Delware. I love traveling, but the US will always be home to me.
I have more than 5 years of experience using VPNs, and I ha...
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