How to Watch ESPN Live Without Cable in 2023

ESPN is only available in the US, so if you’re traveling abroad, you won’t be able to watch it. What’s more, due to local rightsholder agreements, the platform imposes blackouts on certain sports events within the US.

If you want to watch ESPN live from anywhere, there’s an easy solution — using a VPN. A VPN is a simple app that makes you look like you are connected to the internet from the location of your choice so that you can watch ESPN even when abroad.

Out of all the VPNs my team and I tested, ExpressVPN is my top recommendation due to its unmatched HD streaming speeds, large server network, and its reliability in accessing ESPN. You can try ExpressVPN with ESPN risk-free since every plan is backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

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Why You Need a VPN to Watch ESPN Live

ESPN controls what you can watch based on your location. Its content is only available for people in the US, but even then, you can encounter regional blackouts on certain games. This is usually to encourage fans to attend games live or watch them on regional networks.

ESPN, and other platforms that offer its content, use algorithms that detect your location through your IP address. That’s why you cannot access your ESPN+ account when traveling outside the US.

If you try to watch ESPN+ outside the US, you’ll see an “unexpected error occurred” notification

To get around this, you’ll need to use a VPN or virtual private network. VPNs mask your real IP address and replace it with one from a different location. For example, if you’re travling outside the US or the state where your sports event is being broadcasted, connect to a US server. If the VPN you get lets you choose a server in a specific US state, even better.

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Best VPNs to Watch ESPN Live From Anywhere in 2023

1. ExpressVPN — Fast and Stable Speeds for Uninterrupted ESPN Live Streaming

ExpressVPN is my top pick for watching ESPN live as it’s the fastest VPN on this list, making it ideal for UHD streaming. I tested its servers in New York, Washington DC, and New Jersey and only lost around 9% of my base speeds. I’m thousands of miles away from the US, so I found this particularly impressive.

I used ExpressVPN's Los Angeles server to watch TUF

Its large server network with 24 locations in the US means you have many options to watch sports in different states. This also reduces congestion during peak times, so you can expect no interruptions while watching ESPN. I tried five US servers, and they all consistently accessed the platform.

The only downside is that ExpressVPN is slightly expensive, starting at $6.67/month. However, it currently offers a discount of 49% when signing up. You can also try ExpressVPN risk-free — every plan is covered by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Useful Features

• Pre-configured app. You won’t have to configure any settings for streaming in the ExpressVPN app for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Fire Stick, and more. It’s designed so that each connection uses the best available protocol. This is usually the Lightway protocol, and its speedy connections are great for watching ESPN live without cable.
• MediaStreamer. This is ExpressVPN’s Smart DNS service that helps you change your location on devices that don’t support VPNs so that you can watch ESPN on your gaming consoles or smart TV, like Samsung. It doesn’t encrypt your data, so you should be able to get even faster speeds with it.
• Shortcuts. This feature lets you save specific websites that you use frequently so you can open them and connect to the VPN simultaneously with just a click. I added ESPN and a couple of other platforms that offer ESPN content, which saved me a lot of time during testing.
• 24/7 live chat support. ExpressVPN offers helpful and responsive live chat support. If you’re ever stuck trying to access ESPN, you’ll be able to get help quickly.

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2. CyberGhost — Dedicated Streaming Servers to Easily Access ESPN Content

CyberGhost offers an optimized streaming server for ESPN+ that’s regularly updated to replace blocked IPs. I could always access ESPN from this server without any issues. Plus, there are several servers for other platforms with ESPN content, like Sling TV, YouTube TV, and Disney+.

You can find servers optimized for ESPN+, Hulu, Sling TV, and more in the For streaming tab of the app

CyberGhost’s fast speeds ensure you smooth live streaming on ESPN. I connected to its streaming-optimized servers for ESPN+, Hulu, and Sling TV to test its performance. There was no loss of quality or buffering throughout the whole stream. Even though I lost 20% of my base speeds on average, which is slower than ExpressVPN, I could still easily stream in HD.

Unfortunately, CyberGhost only offers a 14-day money-back guarantee on its monthly plan. However, you can get a long-term CyberGhost plan starting at only $2.19/month, which is backed with a 45-day money-back guarantee.

Useful Features

• App rules. This feature lets you set rules that make CyberGhost automatically connect to a server of your choice when you open certain apps, like ESPN. This is great if you’re going on vacation, as it’ll let you start watching live or on-demand sports with just a few clicks.
• Random port selection. This makes it easier to bypass port-based VPN blocks so that you can watch ESPN even on restrictive networks. When I tried this on my strict campus library network, I could watch a live football match with no issues.
• Wide range of apps. CyberGhost offers native apps for Android TV and Fire Stick, so you can watch ESPN easily on your big screen.

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3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Large US Server Network to Watch ESPN Games in Any State

PIA has an extensive server network with 53 options in the US, so you’ll be able to watch every game on ESPN. Even if you’re traveling to a state that is subjected to blackouts, you can connect to a server back home to regain access. I tested multiple of its US servers, and all could access ESPN+ reliably. This extensive server network also means less overcrowding, leading to better speeds and less buffering.

I used PIA’s US West streaming-optimized server for watching ESPN+

The first time I used PIA, I was initially worried that I’d have to manually configure every connection due to its wide array of customization options. However, PIA’s app comes pre-configured, so you don’t have to tweak anything to use it, which is good if you’re a beginner.

PIA’s plans start at just $2.03/month, making it a good value for your money. Its 30-day money-back guarantee also means you can test PIA with ESPN risk-free.

Useful Features

• Streaming-optimized servers. PIA offers two US streaming-optimized server locations (East and West), so you can watch ESPN with no buffering or slowdowns. These are different from CyberGhost’s dedicated servers in that they’re not optimized for specific platforms.
• Dedicated IP. You can buy a dedicated IP address for a small monthly fee. This IP will belong to you only, so it’s less likely ESPN will block your IP address for being linked to VPN use.

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4. NordVPN — Sleek and Intuitive App Design to Easily Stream ESPN on Any Device

NordVPN’s intuitive and easy-to-use app helps you to start streaming ESPN with no delays. There is a world map, search bar, Quick Connect feature, and a list for finding specific servers, so navigating the app is effortless. Plus, above the search bar, you can find the last 5 servers that you used, and you can connect to them with just a click.

NordVPN’s world server map makes it easy to pinpoint server locations for ESPN

During testing, I tried multiple US servers. I was able to reliably stream ESPN's live sports coverage with all of them. The only issue I found was that long-distance servers sometimes took up to a minute to connect. However, it was easy to hop to a different server in the same location that connected instantly.

Every NordVPN plan is backed by 30-day money-back guarantee, so you have ample time to test it with ESPN.

Useful Features

• NordLynx. NordLynx is NordVPN's proprietary protocol based on WireGuard, and it’s designed to offer fast speeds for streaming. So, it’s a great choice for ESPN.
• Kill switch. NordVPN's kill switch automatically turns off your internet if your VPN connection fails unexpectedly, preventing ESPN location errors due to a leaked IP.

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5. Surfshark — Stream Multiple ESPN Games At the Same Time With Unlimited Connections

Surfshark is my family’s go-to choice, as it lets us stream ESPN on any of our devices without disconnecting anyone. My dad watches NFL on our Amazon Fire TV while I stream NBA on my laptop, and my sister watches Max on her tablet. Whatever device you use, Surfshark's apps proved to be modern and user-friendly during testing.

Surfshark’s still provided high-quality streams even with multiple simultaneous connections

I got fast speeds on local servers, but when I streamed ESPN outside of the US, I lost around 35% of my base speeds. I have a fast Internet connection, though, so I could still watch ESPN with no buffering — the worst it got was occasional blurring. So you should be able to still stream in HD if you have good base speeds and you’re closer to the US.

With a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can see for yourself how Surfshark performs for ESPN at no risk.

Useful Features

• Bypasser. Surfshark’s split tunneling feature lets you choose websites or IP addresses to go through or bypass the VPN. I use this with ESPN to optimize my speeds for streaming.
• In-app speed test. This tool lets you check server speeds across the US and select the fastest one for watching ESPN.

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Tips on How to Choose the Best VPN for ESPN

These are the criteria I used while testing VPNs with ESPN — feel free to swipe this list if you want to conduct your own tests.

• Accesses streaming platforms. With ESPN’s content being available on more than just ESPN+, I gave extra points to VPNs that work with these other platforms (YouTube TV, Hulu, etc.).
• Plenty of US servers. Because ESPN’s broadcasting varies by state, and it’s only available in the US, I’ve only included VPNs that offer a wide variety of US servers.
• Fast speeds. I prioritized VPNs that offer fast speeds with minimal reductions from your base connection, as this will let you stream live and on-demand sports without buffering.
• Ease of use. You don’t need to have experience with VPNs to use any of my recommended providers. Each app is easy to use, intuitive, and offers different ways of connecting so you can start watching ESPN with just a few clicks.
• Reliability. I’ve only included VPNs that can reliably access ESPN, ESPN+, or any of the other streaming platforms where you can watch its content. Also, all of them offer different means of customer service, so you’ll be able to get any assistance you need.

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Where Can I Watch ESPN Live Online?

ESPN Website

ESPN has a dedicated website where you can watch video clips and content from its TV channels by logging in with your US cable TV provider. To watch ESPN live without cable, you can sign up on different streaming platforms where it's available, like the ones below.

ESPN+

ESPN+ is a separate streaming and on-demand content platform. It includes live events and shows like The Ultimate Fighter that aren’t available on the live channel. It's only available in the US, so if you want to watch ESPN+ while traveling, you’ll need a VPN.

fuboTV

fuboTV’s starter pack includes ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPN3, ESPNU, ESPNews. You can test fuboTV with a 7-day free trial before subscribing for a long-term plan. Depending on your package, you’ll get 250 to 1,000 hours of DVR storage. The “family share” upgrade allows you to watch it on 3 devices simultaneously.

Sling TV

The Orange plan on Sling TV offers 31 channels, including ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPN3. You need the Sports Extra add-on for ESPNU, ESPNews, ESPN SEC Network, and ESPN SEC Network+. It also offers 50 hours of cloud DVR storage with support for all major devices, including Amazon Fire TV, Roku, Macbook, and others.

Hulu + Live TV

Hulu + Live TV offers ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNews, ACC Network, and SEC Network. You can stream on Hulu’s website through any desktop browser or download the Android, Apple TV, or gaming console app. Or, use your Hulu credentials to watch ESPN3 on the ESPN app.

It comes with unlimited cloud DVR storage, an on-demand streaming library, access to 85+ channels, and the option to watch on 2 screens simultaneously. However, there's no free trial for Hulu + Live TV.

YouTube TV

YouTube TV offers ESPN, ESPN, ESPN U, ESPNews, and ESPN Deportes. You can also record your favorite games to watch them later with no additional costs or storage limits. It offers a 14-day free trial and allows up to 6 simultaneous device connections.

Vidgo

Vidgo is a streaming platform with competitive pricing that offers 150+ channels, including ESPN, ESPN Deportes, ESPNU, ESPN2, and ESPNews. It also allows you to stream on 3 screens simultaneously, with support for all major devices. New customers get a 7-day trial period.

DirecTV

DirecTV offers ESPN live along with hundreds of other TV channels and on-demand content. You can watch ESPN on DirecTV’s channels 206 and 1206. DirecTV subscribers can use their account to access on-demand content in the ESPN app.

Amazon Prime

Amazon Prime Video is one of the most popular streaming platforms. Through Amazon Prime Video Channels, you can subscribe to ESPN and ESPN2. However, this platform’s only available with an Amazon Prime account.

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FAQs on Watching ESPN Live With a VPN

How can I watch ESPN without cable in the UK, Brazil, Canada, and Europe?

You can watch ESPN without cable from any country using a VPN. If you’re traveling to the UK, Canada, Australia, or anywhere in Europe, you can connect to a US VPN server and watch ESPN as you normally would. If you are in Australia, another option is to subscribe to Foxtel IQ, which comes with ESPN.

Can I watch ESPN live for free?

Yes, there are ways to watch ESPN live for free. You can watch ESPN free by signing up for free trials on fuboTV, Vidgo, or YouTube TV. However, all of these services are only available in the US, so you won’t be able to use them if you’re traveling abroad. In that case, you’ll need a VPN to watch ESPN.

On which devices can I watch ESPN live?

You can watch ESPN live on all major devices and platforms. The streaming service works with Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, plus Samsung, Vizio, Apple TV, and smart TVs. If you don’t have a smart TV, you can use Roku, Kodi, Fire Stick, or your gaming console. All the VPNs I’ve recommended are compatible with lots of different devices.

How can I bypass the ESPN+ blackouts?

To bypass ESPN+’s blackouts, you have to change your IP with one from another US state where that particular game is available. The most reliable tool that can help you with this is a VPN. It’s a simple app that lets you connect to a country or city of your choice. Once you connect to one of its servers, it changes your IP with a new one.

For example, if you connect to a US server in LA, you’ll get an LA IP address. If the server you’ve chosen isn’t working, you can try another one in a different state or city. All of the VPNs on this list work flawlessly with the platform within and outside the US.

Why isn't my VPN working with ESPN+?

There are a couple of reasons why your VPN is not working with ESPN+:

• Your VPN may not be able to access ESPN+, so make sure you are using a VPN that works with the platform.
• Your GPS is on. If you leave your GPS on, ESPN+ will easily detect your location. So, make sure that you have it turned off.
• Your actual IP address is exposed. Sometimes, low-end VPNs fail to fully hide your IP address. This causes your location information to get leaked.
• ESPN+ has blocked your server’s IP address. This is not surprising because ESPN+’s algorithm is good at detecting VPN and proxy services.
• Your device cookies are leaking your location to ESPN.

Some possible solutions to these problems are:

• Using a VPN with IP/DNS leak protection. You may have to toggle this on in your app settings.
• Contacting your VPN’s customer support. I suggest you get a VPN that comes with 24/7 live chat support so you can get assistance right away.
• Clear your browser’s cookies or try a different browser.
• Change your VPN server or use servers optimized for streaming (if available).
• Use a different tunneling protocol. Some are better than others at hiding VPN traffic and speeds. WireGuard, OpenVPN, Lightway, and NordLynx are all good options.

Can I watch ESPN with a free VPN?

No. I tested several free VPNs, but they did not unblock ESPN+ because the platform actively blocks their IP addresses. I suggest using a top-tier VPN that frequently updates its IPs and has been proven to work with ESPN. That’s because free VPNs don’t regularly update their IPs, so they often get blocked by ESPN+ or any of the platforms where ESPN is available.

Free VPNs have speed and data limitations that significantly impact your ESPN streaming experience. Plus, their limited server networks are also usually congested and leave you with few options if your IP is blocked.

Free VPNs may also track your browsing data and bombard you with advertisements. Some have even been involved in shady practices, such as selling user data to third parties or packaging malware in their installers.

What can you watch on ESPN?

ESPN offers a wide variety of sporting-related content, including live games, events, news, analysis, documentaries, movies, and more. It covers many types of sports and events in the US and globally. However, due to blackouts, some states may not be able to watch certain games live — but using a VPN with ESPN can help.

ESPN+ is a separate on-demand streaming service providing original content. This includes shows like The Ultimate Fighter, ESPN’s 30 for 30 documentaries, E60 sports journalism, and other exclusives.

Watch ESPN Live Without Cable in Minutes

Since ESPN’s live content is restricted by region, you could miss your favorite games if you are frequently traveling outside the US. But with the help of a reliable VPN, you can stay updated on all game scores wherever you are.

Out of all the VPNs I tested, ExpressVPN is my top recommendation for ESPN. It offers really fast speeds on all of its servers and reliably accesses ESPN with its US servers. It’s also backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. So, you can try ExpressVPN with ESPN without any risks.

To summarize, the best VPNs for watching ESPN live are…