How to watch blackout games with a VPN in 2024

Blackout restrictions are regulations that prevent sports fans from watching live games in their local area unless they attend the event in person or use a designated broadcaster. These rules apply to many popular sports leagues, such as the NFL, NBA, NHL, and MLB, to protect ticket sales and exclusive broadcasting rights. They can be extremely frustrating, especially for those who cannot adhere to the given conditions.

Fortunately, you can get around regional blackouts with a Virtual Private Network (VPN). Working as a bridge between your streaming device and the internet, it reroutes your connection to another region, eliminating any restrictions on your area. This way, you can enjoy local games privately without hassles or limitations.

However, not all VPNs can bypass blackout restrictions. For this reason, I tested 18 reputable VPNs and selected the ones that truly work. All of them are great at unblocking content without speed or connection disturbances. Keep reading to learn how to watch blackout games!

Top 3 best VPNs to watch blackout games in 2024

1. NordVPN

   Best VPN to get rid of blackout restrictions on every platform
   9.8
2. Surfshark VPN

   Fast VPN to watch blacked-out games on every device
   9.5
3. Proton VPN

   Secure VPN to avoid sports blackouts while traveling
   8.6

Why do sports blackouts happen?

Blackout restrictions occur due to complex agreements and regional licenses, meaning that only certain broadcasters have the right to stream the games. Most often, blackout restrictions prioritize the local market, because the goal is to sell all the tickets to the event. Otherwise, the rights are given to local cable broadcasters to carry the regional sports news and games.

One effective solution to bypass sports blackouts is the use of reliable VPN. It’s a technology that creates a secure and encrypted connection between your device and a remote server. A VPN for sports blackouts allows you to connect to a server located in a different region or country. This way, your IP address is changed, and you can access all live and on-demand games.

Moreover, your ISP (Internet Service Provider) may throttle your bandwidth during streaming because they can see your online activities. A VPN can hide your tracks online and make you basically invisible, thanks to IP masking. This often lifts bandwidth limitations and increases streaming quality.

On top of it all, a VPN allows you to travel anywhere digitally, granting access to exclusive content previously restricted by geo-blocks. After the sports season or your favorite games end, you can explore movies or TV shows or even find cheaper airline tickets using a robust sports streaming VPN.

Best VPNs for sports blackouts: overview

1. NordVPN – reliable sports-streaming VPN to get around regional blackouts
2. Surfshark VPN – fast and secure VPN to watch blackout games anywhere
3. Proton VPN – affordable VPN to avoid blackout restrictions while traveling

I tested 18 providers and picked Top 3 VPNs for sports blackouts, prioritizing key factors that secure a seamless sports-viewing experience without any limitations.

My assessment is based on optimal performance, extensive availability of US servers, adeptness in circumventing geo-blocking restrictions, device compatibility, and competitive pricing. Through rigorous analysis, these top-tier VPNs have demonstrated their prowess in seamlessly delivering high-quality and uninterrupted sports streaming experiences regardless of geographical barriers.

1. NordVPN – superlative anti-blackout VPN with fastest speeds

NordVPN is the best VPN to get rid of blackout restrictions due to its extensive server network, high speed, and excellent unblocking capabilities.

NordVPN has 7000+ servers in 118 countries, with 2200+ located only in the US. This makes it ideal for bypassing blackout restrictions. Every server I connected to facilitated UHD 4K streaming quality thanks to the NordLynx tunneling protocol. I enjoyed watching MLB matches with the Yankees while connected to the NordVPN server in Los Angeles. Plus, NordVPN retains 93% of its original speed on average.

During testing, the provider exhibited world-class prowess in unblocking leading streaming services, such as ESPN+, MLB.tv, and NHL.tv, among others. Besides, PCs and mobile devices, you can watch games on smart TVs, like Amazon Fire TV Stick. Though NordVPN only permits 10 simultaneous connections per subscription, you can set it on a router for full household coverage.

NordVPN has a solid privacy and security package. It utilizes AES-256 encryption to keep your browsing secure, two kill switches in case your connection drops, and IP & DNS leak protection to retain your anonymity. Additionally, it offers Dark Web monitoring, Threat Protection, and Meshnet.

You can get NordVPN for $2.99/month but don’t forget to take advantage of NordVPN coupons and a 7-day free trial available for Androids. The 30-day money-back guarantee also expands your opportunity to try NordVPN worry-free.

For a deeper investigation of NordVPN, read our NordVPN review.

2. Surfshark – reliable VPN to get around regional blackouts in USA

Surfshark is an excellent choice for bypassing regional blackouts in the USA and beyond. Its user-friendly interface, stellar performance, and server coverage distinguish it from other VPN service providers.

Surfshark houses a great global distribution with 3200+ servers scattered across 100+ countries. US-only streaming platforms weren’t a problem to me, thanks to 600+ US servers. Also, I didn’t experience any significant drops in speed with the next-gen Wireguard protocol. During my tests, Surfshark retained 93% download and 64% upload speed on average.

No matter what streaming website I set Surfshark to, it unblocked them all. YouTube TV, ESPN+, and NFL+, like other major sports-viewing platforms, were accessible instantly through US servers. In terms of device compatibility, it works perfectly with Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. Meanwhile, SmartDNS and router support allowed me to watch games on my smart TV. This is quite handy, considering unlimited simultaneous connections.

Surfshark is also a very secure VPN service provider. It offers AES-256 encryption, a reliable kill switch, DNS & IP leak protection, and other privacy features. Surfshark claims to follow no-logs policy and has other useful extras, such as Ad blocker, CleanWeb, and Camouflage mode.

Get your hands on Surfshark and watch blackout games for only $2.19/month. I advise checking Surfshark discount coupons, or even try 7-days free trial. Plus, you can always rely on 30-days money-back guarantee.

For a deeper investigation of Surfshark VPN, read our Surfshark VPN review.

3. Proton VPN – robust VPN to watch blackout games in your local area

Proton VPN is one of the best options for watching blackout games from anywhere. Its free version is a solid way to test the waters if you’re new to the VPN concept. However, the premium version is worth every penny.

With 9200+ servers in more than 110 countries, including 2000+ servers in the US, Proton VPN has you covered every time. Combined with the WireGuard tunneling protocol, the connection remained stable and speeds fast, while I switched between servers, so I was able to watch blackout sports without any lag or interruptions. Plus, Proton VPN retained 85% of download and upload speeds on average.

Thanks to its proprietary Stealth protocol, Proton VPN is great at unblocking censored content and bypassing blackouts. I had no issues working around all the major sports streaming platforms’ blackouts, such as ESPN+, NFL+, or Fubo TV. Currently, it allows 10 simultaneous connections and is compatible with all the major apps and software (Windows, Android, iOS, MacOS, Linux). The service worked perfectly with all my devices, so I was able to enjoy sports on my phone, computer, or even TV.

Your browsing will remain safe because Proton VPN uses military-grade AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, split tunneling, and DNS leak protection. It’s also one of a few VPNs that use the Tor over VPN feature for that extra layer of security. Proton VPN is based in Switzerland, so it closely follows the no-logs policy as well.

Get Proton VPN for $3.59/month. Before selecting a plan, I recommend checking out Proton VPN coupons for an even better deal. Remember that the 30-day money-back guarantee always covers you if you’re not satisfied with the service after all.

For a deeper investigation of Proton VPN, read our Proton VPN review.

Comparison of the best VPNs for bypassing regional blackouts

How to watch blackout games with a VPN: detailed guide

Watching blackout games with a VPN is quite easy. However, if it is the first time you’re setting up a VPN, here’s a detailed guide.

1. Select a trustworthy VPN provider. I recommend NordVPN, now 74% OFF.
2. Download and install the app on your selected device.
3. On the app, select a server you want to connect to.
4. Go to the sports streaming platform of your choice.
5. Unblock geo-restricted games and enjoy the match!

Sometimes, streaming platforms ask you to enable your GPS if you’re trying to watch games on your phone. In that case, you’ll need not only a VPN but also a GPS spoofer. Enable GPS spoofer together with a VPN before opening a sports streaming platform to trick it and watch games without interruptions.

Watch sports from anywhere with NordVPN

Can I use a free VPN to get around blackout restrictions?

It’s possible to use a free VPN for blackout restrictions workaround. However, I don’t recommend using entirely free services. One of the reasons why is the poor quality of service. Most free VPNs have a small selection of servers, meaning that they are usually overcrowded, and you may run into connection and speed problems. Additionally, some are full of ads, sell your data to third parties, or even stuff your devices with malicious malware.

However, there are safer ways to save some money while getting around blackouts. I recommend checking if premium service providers offer free trials. For example, NordVPN has 7 days for Androids, and Surfshark offers a free week for all devices. Use safe VPNs for free, and then switch providers after the trial ends. Additionally, you can take advantage of 30-day money-back guarantees. Even tho you have to pay for the service at first, by asking for a refund before the month ends, you will be able to enjoy sports without spending a penny.

Other ways to watch blackout games in 2024

If you’re still unsure about using a VPN to catch up with all your favorite team's games, there are some other ways how to watch blackout games.

• Local channels and broadcasters. Since many blackouts are designed to protect local broadcasters, by subscribing to cable or satellite service, you most likely will be able to watch local sports games.
• Attending the game. If you can buy yourself a ticket, attending local games can avoid blackouts.
• Local sports bars and restaurants. Since many sports bars have agreements with local providers to stream the games, this can be one of the more social ways to watch your favorite team play.
• Delayed viewing. If you don’t mind waiting, some games are shown later after they are played.

Which sports events are affected by blackout restrictions?

Blackout restrictions mainly affect live broadcasts and sporting events. They are imposed to protect ticket sales, local broadcaster rights, and any other agreements. Below I provide some information on how these restrictions affect major sporting events.

NFL

National Football League falls into the local market priority phenomenon, which means that you can only watch live the teams that are popular in your state.

But what about out-of-market NFL matches? Here are some ways how to enjoy those games as well:

• That's where special subscriptions come into play, providing the key to an enhanced viewing experience. Sunday Ticket serves as your gateway to a plethora of Sunday Day Games that aren't on your local screens. This offer, powered exclusively by YouTube TV, ensures that you don't miss a single match of non-local showdowns.
• Monday Night Football, a primetime spectacle hosted by ESPN, may be a staple on your sports calendar. But if your local team isn't in the spotlight, don't worry – a subscription-based service like Sling TV could grant you access to the action.
• Thursday Night Football. Amazon Prime can make your Thursdays synonymous with excitement on the turf. If your local team isn't part of the lineup of the TNF, Prime will make sure you don't miss a thing.

MLB

When it comes to watching MLB, blackout rules add an intriguing twist to the game day. Unlike the NFL, MLB’s blackout rules cast a shadow over local teams’ broadcasts.

But that's not all – some teams are extending their blackouts to neighboring states, and yes, even fans in Canada aren't exempt from the blackouts.

• Broadcasting rights play an important role, weaving another layer to the web of MLB intricacies. Sunday Night Games run after 5 PM ET on ESPN since the platform holds the exclusive rights to deliver these electrifying matchups into your living room.
• Meanwhile, Fox will broadcast the Saturday Games between 4 PM and 7 PM ET, capturing the defining pivotal moments that make the weekend unforgettable.

It gets even more interesting when I look at the priorities of the local stations. When a local station and the MLB network both seek to air the same game, the local station is the one to decide. Unless an exclusive national broadcast right has been granted elsewhere.

NHL

NHL blackout rules also have their dark side – the ominous blackout for local teams.

If a game is on the local TV or on a regional sports network in your area, things get even more complicated, because you won't be able to see in-market NHL games without a VPN.

Alternatively, you can try catching out-of-market NHL games on these sports streaming platforms:

• YouTube TV
• Sling TV
• TSN
• Sportsnet NOW Premium
• Fubo TV
• Star+

NBA

When it comes to the NBA matches, NBA League Pass is your ultimate ticket to the exciting world of the NBA. But here's the kicker: while you can enjoy league–wide action with the pass, the showdowns between your local teams won’t be available for you to tune in.

But hold your cheers because there's more. NBA games broadcast on national networks like ABC, ESPN, TNT, or NBA TV? They're great venues for NHL fans as they're often untouched by the shadows of local blackouts. It's a nationwide affair, a spectacle for fans from coast to coast.

Other Sports

• UFC. It provides access to a wide array of content on its UFC.tv platform, encompassing offerings such as the fight pass subscription and pay-per-view services. However, during significant and highly anticipated bouts, UFC opts to license the broadcast rights to domestic and international local broadcasters in countries like the USA and UK, among others. However, you can enjoy Fight Night broadcasts along with exclusive access to the UFC PPV events with an ESPN+ subscription.
• CFL. For over-the-air signals, the CFL blackout restriction extends to 120 kilometers from the city where the game takes place or 56 kilometers from the host city's limits for cable signals. This also applies to games held in Saskatchewan within the province's boundaries. You can enjoy the games despite blackouts on TSN Go apps if you have the appropriate subscription.

Streaming services affected by sports blackouts

Conclusion

Many sporting events, including MLB, NBA, NHL, and NFL, are subject to blackout restrictions due to exclusive broadcasting rights or the desire to fill stadiums. Whatever the case, sports enthusiasts are left frustrated and looking for other solutions to see the games. If you want to get around blackout restrictions, a trustworthy VPN is your biggest chance.

NordVPN is the ultimate VPN for sports blackouts. The service boasts more than 2200 US servers, whose connection retains high-tier speeds thanks to the NordLynx protocol. Not only can you watch out-of-market and in-market games in 4K UHD, but you can do so safely and privately. This VPN ticks all the checkboxes for streaming sports and securing the most impeccable experience possible.

What do you think is the best VPN for sports blackouts? Let us know by leaving a comment!

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FAQ

How to prevent sports blackouts?

You can bypass sports blackouts with a VPN. MLB, NFL, NBA, and other blackouts occur due to several reasons and could prevent you from watching games in certain states. NordVPN is the best choice for resolving such issues as the service houses 2200+ US servers and upkeeps blazing streaming speeds.

What is the best VPN for bypassing sports blackouts?

NordVPN is the best VPN for sports blackouts. It effectively bypasses regional blackout restrictions and unblocks leading sports streaming platforms like NFL+, MLB.tv or ESPN+. With access to over 2200+ US servers, you can watch out-of-market games in UHD quality while enjoying robust online protection.

Why is the game blacked out in my area?

Sports blackouts occur because of the local market priority or broadcasting rights distribution. In other words, blackouts help ticket sales and programming distributors, like local television networks and stations.