How to watch Max online
Many great TV shows and movies are subjected to geographical restrictions and only available in certain parts of the world. Such blocks are particularly apparent in the US, where copyright laws are taken quite seriously.
Max (formerly known as HBO Max) is no exception to such limitations. After the big merger of Warner Bros and Discovery, the drop of HBO title from the name was announced quite soon. However, even after the huge expansion of the current library, the restrictions of this streaming platform remain at large.
Thankfully, you can effortlessly watch Max online using a VPN (Virtual Private Network). It can reroute your internet connection through a remote server, making it appear that you live in a different country. Many VPNs have servers in the US, but only the best providers can avoid detection and let you stream the Max catalog without issues.
Watch Max outside the USA – a quick guide
- Subscribe to a VPN that works reliably at getting around geo-restrictions. We suggest NordVPN, currently 74% off
- Install the VPN on your preferred device and connect to a server in the United States
- Visit the Max website
- Log in or create a new account
- Sit back and enjoy the entire Max catalog!
Best VPNs for Max: shortlist
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The best VPN to watch Max anywhere
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Max VPN with unlimited connections
Why do you need a VPN to watch Max online?
Many streaming services impose geographical blocking because of copyright and distribution restrictions. As such, users worldwide have to deal with vastly different content availability. Even services that are available globally, such as Netflix, are subjected to regional limitations. Max is no exception and offers different movies and TV shows based on your location.
Luckily, the best VPNs for streaming have the necessary tools to get around such blockades. A VPN can route your entire internet traffic through a server in a remote area, allowing you to trick streaming services into thinking that you’re in a different country.
Of course, changing your location with a VPN has other advantages, too. For example, it allows you to hide your actual IP address behind the IP of the VPN server. That way, your anonymity will remain intact. Additionally, your traffic will be encrypted with solid AES-256 encryption, making it unreadable to your ISP (Internet Service Provider) and other undesirable onlookers.
However, it’s worth mentioning that not every VPN will work with streaming services like Max or Disney Plus. For example, they must provide wicked-fast connection speeds to ensure lag-free video delivery. Plus, you’ll need the virtual private network to be compatible with your preferred home-entertainment device. These are just a few main criteria when picking the best VPNs for HBO Max.
Where is Max available?
During its inception, HBO Max was available only in the United States. However, it is possible to watch HBO shows with certain local providers if they receive licensing rights. One such example is Sky in the UK.
Throughout the HBO Max heyday, the streaming service was already available in 60 countries throughout Europe and the Americas. Unfortunately, it seems that the merger and the name change might’ve interfered with licensing and distribution.
According to Max itself, the new service is only available in the United States. This also includes American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands. Luckily, Max is expecting to launch in Latin America and the Caribbean by the end of 2023 and in both Europe and South East Asia sometime in 2024.
Keep in mind that you’ll still need a VPN when traveling to countries where Max is unavailable. Otherwise, you’ll be unable to stay up-to-date with ongoing TV series.
The Best VPN services for Max
A worthwhile VPN for Max needs to fulfill a few requirements to be considered viable. For starters, it needs an expansive server fleet with hardware in regions where the streaming platform is available.
Additionally, the virtual private network should employ top-of-the-line tunneling protocols to facilitate UHD video without buffering issues. The most popular option nowadays is WireGuard, although other methods can also get the job done.
You’ll also need a router-compatible VPN if you wish to watch Max on smart TVs or other devices without VPN software support. Plus, we picked providers with dedicated apps for Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, and other popular home entertainment devices.
There are plenty of other aspects to consider. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what’s important. Read these overviews and choose the most appealing VPN for unblocking Max abroad.
1. NordVPN – the #1 VPN for watching Max anywhere
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24/7, email
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Top connectivity with NordLynx
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Excellent security features
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Massive server network
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Only 10 simultaneous connections
NordVPN is the best VPN that works with Max. Additionally, it’s a heavy hitter in the security department with its abundance of features. Check it out using the 7-day NordVPN trial.
The VPN service boasts 7000+ servers across 118+ countries. Besides regular locations, customers can pick specialty servers (Onion over VPN, P2P, Double VPN, obfuscated) for enhanced protection and utility. Plus, customers can purchase a dedicated IP in the US to be the exclusive owner of their Max IP address. Best of all, industry-leading connectivity is conducted with the proprietary NordLynx protocol.
With NordVPN, the Threat Protection feature is the primary defender against digital dangers. It blocks malicious ads, online trackers, scans files, and removes tracking parameters from websites. Meanwhile, Dark Web Monitor notifies you whenever your data ends up on data leaks. Lastly, Meshnet allows you to create encrypted connections with remote devices to access remote files or host LAN parties.
Unlock the complete toolkit of this VPN for only $2.99/month. Don’t forget to grab a NordVPN discount code to access the best possible discounts. And no need to worry about commitment issues, thanks to the 30-day money-back guarantee.
For a deeper investigation of NordVPN, read our NordVPN review.
2. Surfshark VPN – VPN for Max with greatest country selection
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3200
24/7, FAQ
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Unlimited device connections
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Includes Smart DNS
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Ultra-fast with WireGuard
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Some features cost extra
Don’t want to keep track of which devices have a VPN installed and whether you’re nearing the connection limit? Get Surfshark VPN! The service works great with Max and offers unlimited simultaneous connections with one account. You can take it for a spin using the 7-day Surfshark trial.
Surfshark VPN commands a fleet of 3200+ servers across 100+ countries. The vast region variety is perfect for viewers looking for the most diverse content on Max. Additionally, video stuttering won’t be an issue because the WireGuard tunneling protocol is available.
Like most virtual private networks, Surfshark is compatible with desktop and mobile devices. However, it also has apps for Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, and other smart television sets. If it doesn’t, you can utilize the Smart DNS feature to unblock streaming content. Alternatively, setting up the VPN on a router is the most foolproof way of unblocking Max on any device.
Use a Surfshark coupon and gain access to the measly $2.19/month subscription prices. Don’t hesitate to grab the Surfshark One if you also want antivirus protection while watching Max. Plus, you can always change your mind because your purchase is secured with a 30-day money-back warranty.
For a deeper investigation of Surfshark VPN, read our Surfshark VPN review.
Watch Max on any device
- How to watch Max on mobile
- How to watch Max on PC
- How to watch Max on Fire TV
- How to watch Max on Roku
- How to watch Max on Smart TV
HBO Max is available on various devices, including smart TVs, computers, gaming consoles, tablets, and even mobile phones. However, you need to make sure that your chosen VPN provider is compatible with your particular device. On the other hand, you can simply configure a VPN on your router and enjoy security on your entire home network.
In any case, here are a few guides on how to watch Max online on any device.
How to watch Max on mobile phones (Android, iOS)
Most VPN providers have dedicated apps for Android and iPhone devices. But just launching a VPN is not enough on mobile phones. Here’s what you need to do to get Max working:
- Switch the location on your app store to the US
- Download a mobile-friendly and reliable VPN. We recommend NordVPN, currently 74% off
- On the VPN app, connect to any server in the US
- Create a new account on your mobile device. For Android users – a new Google account, and on iOS – a new Apple ID. Choose the USA as your country
- Connect with your new account and download the Max app
- Download the app and enjoy unrestricted access to Max
How to watch Max on desktop devices (Windows, Mac, Linux)
Whether you’re using Windows, macOS, or Linux, learning how to watch Max on PC is pretty straightforward. All you need is a VPN with plenty of servers in the US and a web browser.
- Download and install a worthwhile VPN. Our top choice is NordVPN, the best overall VPN service
- Connect to any server in the United States
- Visit the Max website
- Create an account and watch anything without restrictions!
How to watch Max on Amazon Fire Stick
Not every VPN has a dedicated application for Amazon Fire TV devices. Because of that, we recommend choosing a VPN from our list of best VPNs for Fire Stick. Whichever VPN you choose, here’s how to get Max working:
- Pick a VPN that’s available natively on Amazon Fire TV Stick. Our recommendation is NordVPN
- Install the VPN app and connect to a server in the US
- Search for the Max app
- Install the app and watch to your heart’s content!
How to watch Max on Roku
Using a VPN on Roku can be tricky as it doesn’t support VPN software natively. Luckily, there are some easy workarounds you can try with the best VPNs for Roku. The easiest method is to set up your router with a VPN, connect to the USA, and then connect your Roku device to it. After that, you can easily access Max on Roku and watch their entire catalog.
How to watch Max on Smart TV
Whether your smart TV supports a VPN connection depends on the manufacturer. For your convenience, we have a guide specifically for LG smart TVs. Additionally, some VPNs have dedicated apps for Android TV or Apple TV.
Alternatively, you need to set up a VPN directly on your router or use the Smart DNS feature if your VPN has it. After that, you will have easy access to Max on your smart TV.
How to watch Max from your location
The Max streaming service is geographically restricted to the United States and a few other countries across Europe and Latin America. However, it’s worth noting that not all countries have access to the same movies and TV shows. That means you could use a VPN to unlock Max region-locked content even if the streaming service is available in your country.
However, some TV channels have the right to broadcast HBO and Max content in their respective countries. For example, Sky Atlantic has the right to distribute HBO in the UK. Similarly, you can utilize Sky Italia in Italy or Sky Deutschland in Germany.
Furthermore, HBO Europe is available in many European countries, such as Denmark, Finland, Spain, and more. Check your local providers to see if they offer the HBO channel.
Additionally, Australians can watch HBO content on either Foxtel or Binge. Naturally, time zone differences can make you susceptible to potential spoilers of your favorite shows.
Ultimately, having a VPN to watch Max online is the most effective way to stay up-to-date with your favorite movies and TV shows.
How to watch Max from anywhere
- Subscribe to a well-performing VPN for Max. My go-to option is NordVPN
- Download the VPN on your favorite movie-streaming device
- Connect to a country with access to Max. The USA has the best content library
- Launch Max and enjoy exclusive world-renowned TV shows!
Max not working with VPN: potential fixes
It’s worth noting that you shouldn’t expect any VPN to work with Max flawlessly. After all, streaming platforms try to block VPN users from circumventing geographical restrictions. Luckily, there are a fair number of fixes you can try.
- Check for IP or DNS leaks. A common issue among low-quality services is the exposure of your true location even when the VPN is enabled. Check for flaws via websites like dnsleaktest.com
- Connect to another VPN server. Overused VPN server IP addresses get blocked by online services like HBO Max. If your IP address isn’t leaking, it’s fair to assume the VPN server address got blocked. The solution is simple – try another one.
- Clear your browser’s cache. Browser cookies can store your location information, undermining your efforts to unblock Max. Clear the browser cache and cookies, or use incognito mode when accessing geo-restricted content.
- Enable Stealth VPN. Some networks take extreme measures to curb circumvention attempts and restrict all VPN traffic. Thankfully, you can bypass VPN blocking by enabling Stealth VPN.
- Try using browser extensions or manual configuration. Desktop users can switch from the dedicated app and use a browser extension as an alternative method of unblocking content.
Max still doesn’t play ball? Contact your VPN provider’s customer service agents; they’ll get to the bottom of the issue.
Can I use a free VPN for Max?
Wouldn’t it be great if you could use the best free VPN for Max to unblock the platform? It’s worth a try, especially because many no-cost services have access to US servers. However, practically all reliable freemium VPNs reserve streaming support for premium users.
On the other hand, completely free VPNs that claim to be able to unblock Max should be looked at with suspicion. After all, how can such a provider do that without funds? Usually, the real money-making venture with too-good-to-be-true VPNs is selling customer data.
We recommend not wasting your time and effort trying to unblock Max with free VPN services. Instead, get a cheap and effective provider if you want to watch exclusive movies and TV shows with minimal impact on your budget. Or, get a free trial VPN if you’re fine with temporary access to HBO content.
What you can watch on Max
HBO Max (currently Max) was the result of combining HBO Now and HBO Go. With it, you can conveniently access the HBO catalog, including The Sopranos, Game of Thrones, Friends, and much more. Plus, it offers existing and upcoming movies and shows from Warner Bros, such as Succession, The White Lotus, Superpets, and more.
| Best TV shows on Max | Best movies on Max |
| The Last of Us, House of the Dragon, Succession, Chernobyl, Last Week Tonight with John Oliver, Lovecraft Country, Euphoria, Adventure Time, Friends, Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Doctor Who, Mythbusters | Avatar: The Way of Water, Parasite, Dune, The Batman, Jaws, 2001: A Space Odyssey, Blade Runner, Casablanca, Citizen Kane, Clerks, A Clockwork Orange, Dunkirk |
Max starts at $9.99/month with the ad-supported version. Alternatively, you can grab the ad-free version for $15.99/month, allowing you to download 30 of your favorite movies for viewing offline and watch select movies in Full HD. Finally, the Max Ultimate is $19.99/month, increasing the downloads to 100 and boosting your watching experience with UHD 4K and Dolby Atmos.
Conclusion
Accessing Max is a piece of cake if you choose the right VPN for the job. It needs to be capable of circumventing geographical restrictions, be fast enough to stream without buffering, and support your device. And, of course, it shouldn’t cost a fortune since the streaming service is also paid. However, a free VPN is out of the question as it won’t give you a pleasant experience.
Which VPN would you choose for streaming Max? Voice your opinion by leaving a comment!
You may also like to read:
How to change Netflix region
How to watch Harry Potter movies on Netflix
How to stream Channel 4 in US
How to watch BBC iPlayer from anywhere
How to watch UK TV from anywhere
How to watch The Office online
FAQ
Can you watch Max with a VPN?
Yes, it’s possible to watch Max with a VPN. The best VPNs for HBO Max are needed to get around geo-blocks and access the streaming platform in restricted countries. Other services may not unblock the website effectively.
Can I use Max with NordVPN?
Yes, because NordVPN is the best VPN for unblocking Max. It has over 7000 servers worldwide, while roughly 2000 are in the US alone. Additionally, the proprietary NordLynx tunneling protocol ensures lag-free streaming even from extremely-remote locations.
Is VPN for Max illegal?
No, using a VPN to unblock geo-restricted content is perfectly legal. However, many online services prohibit VPN use in their terms of service. Luckily, they won’t terminate your account since you’re a paying customer. Worst case scenario, they’ll ask to turn off the VPN.
Which free VPN works with Max?
No free VPN works reliably with Max. The most trustworthy no-cost VPNs are freemium, and reserve content-unblocking features for premium users. However, you can gain temporary access to Max by getting a free trial of a well-performing VPN for streaming.
Is Max region locked?
Yes, Max is only available in the USA. Max is expecting to launch in Latin America and the Caribbean by the end of 2023 and in both Europe and South East Asia sometime in 2024. Luckily, that’s not a problem if you have a VPN for Max. It can change your location and unlock the streaming service anywhere.
Can Max detect VPN?
Max cannot detect all VPN traffic. Instead, it flags VPN IP addresses that are frequently used by different users. Which means the most reliable way of unblocking Max is by getting a VPN with dedicated IP addresses.
