7 Best Free Kodi VPNs — Fast & Work on All Devices in 2023

Finding a free VPN that can protect you from cyber threats and give you access to the best Kodi addons is challenging. Most free VPNs have limited features and server networks and are unlikely to keep you secure while streaming on Kodi. Others have even been caught throttling speeds, selling user data, and installing malicious software on customer devices to track them.

I tested 30+ free VPNs and shortlisted the best ones for Kodi. These providers can give you secure access to the media player and its addons without compromising your security or speed. Plus, they’re easy to configure on most popular devices, so you can start immediately.

My top choice is ExpressVPN. Its exceptional speeds let you watch content in UHD, while robust security features keep you safe on Kodi. Plus, it’s easy to use and can reliably access all major Kodi addons. Even though it’s not 100% free, you can confidently try ExpressVPN since it's supported by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

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Best Free VPNs for Kodi — Full Analysis (Updated 2023)

1. ExpressVPN — Outstanding Speed to Watch Movies and TV Shows on Kodi Without Buffering

I was blown away by ExpressVPN’s fast speeds on every server I connected to. Plus, there's no bandwidth limit, so you can stream as much video content as you want. During my tests, I recorded 120Mbps using its Lightway (UDP) protocol — only a 6% drop from my baseline connection of 127Mbps. 4K streaming requires only 25Mbps, so you can watch videos on Kodi in crystal-clear quality without interruptions.

I didn't experience buffering even when using servers in the US thousands of kilometers from me

Your Kodi sessions are also protected with robust security features. AES 256-bit encryption (the highest available and virtually uncrackable) keeps your connection private and secure. The VPN adds to this with Perfect Forward Secrecy, which automatically rotates your encryption keys. So even if your data fell into the wrong hands, it would be unreadable.

Its kill switch (Network Lock) prevents accidental exposure of your IP address and other sensitive information. It blocks all internet traffic if your VPN connection drops (like when your device goes into sleep mode) until protection is restored. I also tested the VPN for leaks and detected none, thanks to ExpressVPN’s IP/DNS protection. On top of that, Threat Manager blocks third parties known for suspicious behaviors like tracking, ensuring a safe streaming experience with Kodi.

Using RAM-based servers (TrustedServer technology) effectively maintains privacy while using Kodi, as it erases all user data with every reboot. However, no data is collected in the first place, thanks to EXpressVPN's strict no-logs policy. This is further strengthened by the VPN's headquarters being based outside the 5/9/14 Eyes jurisdiction in the British Virgin Islands, exempting it from any obligation to share user data with agencies.

With a global network, you have over 3,000 servers to stream with Kodi. I connected to US servers and easily accessed my HBO Max and ESPN accounts. When you don’t have a preferred location, just use the VPN’s Smart Location feature that connects you to the fastest available server near you. I didn’t experience connectivity issues on any of the servers I tested.

Apps are straightforward to set up on all major Kodi-supported devices, including Nvidia Shield and FireStick. You can connect up to 8 devices at once. For Linux users, you can even stream with the VPN and Kodi with LibreELEC on your Raspberry Pi or another device. If you install it on a router, you can protect all your devices, including those that don’t natively support VPNs.

The only drawback is that the service isn’t completely free — a long-term subscription will cost you $6.67/month. However, you can try ExpressVPN risk-free as it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. It’s easy to cancel and get your money back if it doesn’t meet your needs. I asked customer support to process my refund via 24/7 live chat, and the money appeared in my bank account after 2 days.

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2. CyberGhost — Vast Network to Access Any Kodi Addon From Anywhere

CyberGhost's extensive global network allows Kodi users to access content from various locations worldwide, enhancing the overall streaming experience. Plus, you can enjoy faster connection speeds and reliable connectivity since many servers mean less chance of congestion due to overcrowding. You also get servers optimized for streaming platforms, like Netflix, Disney+, and NBC. During my tests, I accessed my BBC iPlayer account within 3 seconds.

Intuitive apps are available for all major operating systems, including Windows and Mac. The VPN nicely categorizes servers by location and use (streaming, torrenting, and gaming). You can also save servers as favorites (by clicking the star icon) to quickly secure your connection the next time you want to stream using Kodi.

This VPN provides a smooth Kodi experience by stopping ads, malicious sites, and trackers from interfering with your viewing using a built-in ad-blocker. The service successfully stopped ads as I was using some third-party addons like The Crew.

AES 256-bit encryption encodes all your data, keeping you safe from online threats like data or identity theft that might come with using Kodi. Leak protection and a kill switch also prevent accidental exposure of your sensitive data. I ran some tests and confirmed that CyberGhost never leaked my actual location.

I prefer using the gold standard in security protocols OpenVPN, when streaming with Kodi

A no-logs policy keeps your personal information (like browsing data) private. Like ExpressVPN, the VPN also uses RAM-only servers. On top of that, CyberGhost is based in privacy-friendly Romania, which isn't subject to any data retention laws.

On the downside, the VPN isn’t completely free. However, long-term plans are budget-friendly, starting at $2.19/month, with an extended money-back guarantee. Also, you can connect up to 7 devices simultaneously.

With its money-back guarantee, you can use CyberGhost free for 45 days. Requesting a refund is straightforward. I canceled my subscription via the 24/7 live chat and encountered no pressure to stay. My credit card was refunded within 4 days.

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3. Proton VPN — No Bandwidth Limits for Endless Streaming on Kodi

Proton VPN's free plan doesn’t cap your bandwidth, so you can stream for hours on Kodi. This is great because most free VPNs have annoying data restrictions. I could binge-watch with streaming addons like Shadow and Odin without interruptions. During my tests, speeds were fast enough for HD streaming — they never dropped below 95Mbps using the server in the US. My starting speed was 128Mbps, which is about a 25% loss.

I tested various US servers for streaming and encountered no buffering

Apps are user-friendly, making finding the best server for streaming easy. A Quick Connect feature also connects you to the fastest server. Unlike most free VPNs, no ads are cluttering the home screen.

The VPN uses robust security measures to protect user data, including AES 256-bit encryption, leak protection, a kill switch, and protocols like OpenVPN. However, the WireGuard protocol provides the fastest connection speed, making it an ideal choice for Kodi users who require a smooth streaming experience.

Like ExpressVPN and CyberGhost, ProtonVPN has a verified no-logs policy, ensuring your personal information is not collected or shared with any third party. Additionally, being based in Switzerland, a country renowned for its strong privacy laws, authorities are unlikely to request activity logs from the VPN.

The Windows and Android apps have a split tunneling feature that lets you exclude some apps from using the VPN tunnel. This allowed me to access my local banking apps with my normal IP address (so the bank doesn't flag and block my connection) while streaming content securely on Kodi through the VPN.

Unfortunately, the free version limits you to US, Netherlands, and Japan servers, so you have a small pool of IPs to use with Kodi. However, all the servers I tested worked with most streaming addons, including PBS Kids and Crackle.

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4. Avira Phantom VPN — Many Simultaneous Connections To Use Kodi on All Your Devices

You can use Avira Phantom VPN's free plan on multiple devices simultaneously without it affecting your streaming experience. During my tests, I could stream movies on my Windows PC, Android tablet, and MacBook Air at the same time without any drop in performance. In fact, my connection remained stable across all devices. While there was an average drop-off in download speeds of 26%, my average download rate remained at a respectable 90.7Mbps, from a base connection of 123Mbps.

The Android app gives you access to 35+ server locations to bypass geo-restrictions on Kodi addons. I safely accessed addons like SportHD and Covenant with the VPN’s servers for Austria and Greece. The connections were reliable and took only 5 seconds to establish. You only have 1 server location with the desktop version, and it automatically connects to this server using the "Nearest Location" feature.

Using the VPN’s Nearest location feature can find you the fastest server with 1 click

Kodi users can enjoy a secure and safe streaming experience with AES 256-bit encryption, IP/DNS leak protection, and various security protocols. The VPN also adheres to a strict no-logs policy, so it doesn’t collect data like the websites you visit.

The biggest con is that the free version limits you to 500MB of data per month. However, you get an extra 500MB when you sign up with your email address. I suggest using the mobile version's 7-day free trial since it includes unlimited data.

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5. hide.me — Advanced Security Features Keep You Safe While Using Kodi

State-of-the-art security technologies keep you safe from hackers and snoops while using Kodi. AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and tunneling protocols (including OpenVPN and IKEv2) are rare for a free VPN. I tested hide.me using ipleak.net and didn’t detect any DNS or IP leaks. Plus, it features a certified zero-logs policy based in a privacy-friendly jurisdiction, Malaysia. So you don’t have to worry about your online activities being logged or shared.

Stealth Guard ensures your Kodi traffic is stopped in case the VPN connection drops

The free plan comes with 10GB of monthly data, much more than other free services I tested. I watched a 2.5-hour copyright-free documentary with the Documentary Haven Kodi addon and still had some data left. You can save more data with the split tunneling feature by rerouting only your Kodi traffic through the VPN.

I noticed a significant drop in speed using the faraway servers in Brazil and Australia, about 40% and 46% from my starting speed, respectively. However, servers closer to me gave me good speeds, and I had no problems watching videos on addons like CONtv and PBS Kids with its free server.

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6. Hotspot Shield — Fast ​​Downloads With P2P Kodi Addons

Hotspot Shield's free plan supports torrenting with speeds suitable for use with P2P Kodi Addons. With the VPN's proprietary protocol (Catapult Hydra), I averaged 96Mbps from a base speed of 121.15Mbps (only a 21% drop) during my test. This enabled me to download a 2GB file in under 3 minutes.

It also doesn't limit data, so you can torrent as much as you want. However, the free version of the VPN only offers limited server locations depending on the OS you use, so you might experience delays if it gets overcrowded. Still, I had no issue watching a copyright-free movie in SD quality.

Hotspot Shield offers better speeds than the average free VPN

Still, P2P addons on Kodi are known to be riddled with cyber threats, and the legality of the source you're torrenting from is questionable. Luckily, Hotspot Shield's free plan provides advanced protection through AES 256-bit encryption and IP leak protection. Unfortunately, the kill switch is only available for Windows.

Like ExpressVPN and CyberGhost, your torrenting activity is kept private while using Kodi, as the VPN doesn't log any information that can be traced back to you. Plus, it automatically blocks malware-infected websites.

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7. TunnelBear — Simple User-Interface to Easily Access Content From Kodi Addons

TunnelBear offers user-friendly apps with a consistent design across all platforms, making it easy to switch between devices. Configuring settings on TunnelBear is also straightforward, making it a great option for users new to VPNs. I installed and connected to a server on my Windows laptop within minutes. During my tests, its Fastest feature immediately connected me to the nearest server for optimal speed.

Access to over 5,000 servers worldwide allows you to unblock the most popular Kodi builds and addons. This also makes finding a location close to you convenient for improved connection speeds.

I was also able to access Binge with the same Australian server

You don’t have to worry about hackers and snoops while using Kodi. AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch (Vigilant Bear), and IP/DNS leak protection safeguards your data.

Lon- distant servers slowed me down quite a bit, up to 70%. However, the TCP override feature can enhance your streaming if your connection is weak or choppy. For example, if your ISP is causing speed issues, this feature will force the VPN to switch to a more reliable protocol. This resolved the buffering problem I experienced.

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Quick Comparison Table: Free Kodi VPN Features

Below, you will find a table that presents a comparison of the features offered by the highly recommended free VPNs for Kodi. This table allows you to assess their performance in terms of speed, data limits, server locations, and ease of use. Additionally, I have included the lowest price for their respective full-featured paid versions, in case you decide to explore their premium offerings.

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Tips on Choosing the Best Free VPN for Kodi

The best free VPNs for Kodi should provide you with robust security, fast speeds, and a reliable network. I tested each VPN by installing it on different devices (including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS) and connecting to various servers to download Kodi addons and stream content. Feel free to use my criteria below to find the best free Kodi VPN for you.

• Security features. Look for a VPN with robust security features such as encryption, leak protection, a kill switch, and a no-logs policy to ensure your Kodi activities are secure and private.
• Fast speeds. Avoid buffering and slowdowns while streaming on Kodi by choosing a VPN that provides fast and reliable connections.
• Server network. More servers mean plenty of options for accessing Kodi addons anywhere and less chance of congestion. Ideally, servers should be distributed worldwide to unblock the Kodi services you want.
• Device compatibility. Ensure the VPN is compatible with your device and operating system, so you can access Kodi on your preferred platform.
• Free plan limitations. Be aware of any restrictions with the VPN's free plan, such as data caps, speed restrictions, or limited server locations, to ensure that the VPN meets your Kodi needs.

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Warning: Dangers of Using Free VPNs With Kodi

At best, free VPNs limit bandwidth, data, and speeds. At worst, they can put your data at risk. The VPNs on my list were all tested and found safe to use with Kodi.

Let’s look at some of the risks of many other free VPNs:

• Security vulnerabilities. Free VPNs may not provide adequate security features, such as encryption, leak protection, and a kill switch, leaving your online activities vulnerable to cyber threats and attacks.
• Data collection. Free VPNs may collect your personal information, browsing history, and online activities and sell this data to third-party advertisers or other organizations.
• Malicious software. Some free VPNs may contain malware or spyware that can infect your device and compromise your online security and privacy.
• Bandwidth throttling. Some free VPNs may throttle your internet speed or limit your bandwidth, making it difficult to stream content on Kodi or engage in other online activities.
• Compatibility issues. Free VPNs usually only offer apps for laptops and desktop computers. This means you won’t be able to stream on your mobile device, gaming console, or smart TV.
• Limited server locations. You may only have access to a few server locations, which can limit your ability to bypass geo-restrictions and access content from different regions.

You don't have to restrict yourself or worry about keeping your data safe when using Kodi. Premium VPNs offer free trials and money-back guarantees, so you can use Kodi from anywhere.

For example, ExpressVPN and CyberGhost give you access to thousands of fast servers worldwide. They don't limit data or bandwidth, either. Plus, they have beginner-friendly apps for all major devices, including smart TVs and routers.

Free Kodi VPNs To Avoid

Not all VPNs are created equal. There are some Kodi VPNs that can put your privacy and security at risk by logging your browsing activity. Others install malware that can wreak havoc on your device, and there are those that use third-party spyware for advertising and tracking.

• Hola VPN. This is not a VPN but an unsafe P2P network that uses your IP address. Your online activities are not encrypted, and your data is not kept private, leaving you vulnerable to cyber threats and attacks. It also has a highly intrusive logging policy that includes logging actual IP addresses.
• Psiphon. This VPN logs region codes, domain names visited, and connection time stamps and stores this information for up to 90 days. Psiphon is also ad-supported.
• UFO VPN. User data, including websites visited, names, IP addresses, and more, are logged by this VPN and may be shared with third parties.
• VPN Gate. Because it's run by volunteers, anyone can potentially run your VPN server, putting your data at risk. It als logs your IP address and browsing activity.
• Betternet. The app was discovered to contain a significant amount of malware. It also logs personal information, including your visited domains, your real location, and the device used.

How To Fix Common VPN Problems With Kodi

Several factors could cause problems when utilizing a free VPN with Kodi. Luckily, there are remedies available for these issues:

• Try a different server. Some servers may block new connections if they’re under maintenance or overloaded. Choosing a new server location can solve this problem, or restart the VPN and reconnect to the same server.
• Use a different protocol. Switching to a different protocol can also help fix VPN problems with Kodi.
• Disable your firewall. Your firewall might be blocking VPN connections. Check its settings and include the VPN in the list of exceptions. Temporarily disabling your firewall can also fix the problem, but I don’t recommend doing so, as it can make your device vulnerable to unauthorized access.
• Check for leaks. You won’t be able to access geo-restricted Kodi content if your IP and DNS are leaking. Tools like DNSleaktest.com and ipleak.net can help you check for leaks.
• Update the VPN. Having the most up-to-date version of your Kodi VPN can help fix connection issues.
• Change your DNS settings. Your VPN connection could be slow because of your DNS settings. Altering your device’s settings can give you a speed boost and a better Kodi experience.
• Update your date and time. Sometimes, a VPN can fail to work if the date and time set on your device are incorrect.
• Clear your browser’s cache and flush your DNS. This can help resolve internet connectivity issues. Kodi may be using an IP address and other DNS data set by your VPN during the previous sessions. This, for example, can stop you from accessing geo-blocked content.
• Contact support. If none of the above methods help, you can ask for help from your provider. Fortunately, most VPNs offer 24/7 support.

FAQs on the Best Free Kodi VPNs

Why do you need a VPN for Kodi?

Unverified Kodi addons can subject you to third-party tracking, compromising your privacy and security. Also, since your IP address is visible, content holders may see it, which can land you in trouble if you accidentally stream copyrighted content. A VPN offers the best way to stay safe while using Kodi.

VPNs encrypt your data and mask your IP address by rerouting your traffic through private servers. This makes it difficult for third parties like ISPs to spy on what you’re doing online. You can lso choose your virtual location, which allows you to change your IP address to safely use the best Kodi addons.

Are free VPNs for Kodi legal and safe?

Free VPNs are legal in most countries as long as you use them for lawful purposes. However, some of them may compromise your online privacy and spoil your Kodi experience as they come with a lot of limitations. Kodi enthusiasts should use a VPN with robust security tools to stay safe and protect their devices from the risks that come with using unofficial addons.

Does a free VPN allow torrenting on Kodi?

Unfortunately, only a few free VPNs support torrenting on Kodi since this activity is bandwidth-intensive. Most free VPNs limit data and speed, which is essential for downloading large files. The best completely free VPN for torrenting on Kodi is Hotspot Shield, which provides fast speeds, unlimited data, and military-grade encryption. However, you can only use it on a few server locations.

A better alternative is ExpressVPN, with its P2P-friendly network of servers in 94 countries. Even though it's not technically free, you can try it out risk-free since it's backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Will a free Kodi VPN work with services like Netflix?

Free VPNs are generally not suitable for accessing streaming services like Netflix as they are notorious for blocking VPN connections. Free services come with limited server networks, so there won’t be plenty of options to switch to when a certain VPN IP is blacklisted. To access platforms like Netflix, it’s best to use a low-cost premium VPN with a money-back guarantee.

Is Kodi legal and safe?

Yes, it’s legal, but it could land you in hot water if you accidentally use Kodi addons that offer streams of copyrighted material. Others can expose you to online threats like hackers, malware, and snoops. Using a VPN with Kodi is recommended to enhance privacy and security while accessing online content.

What's the best free VPN for Kodi on FireStick?

ProtonVPN and TunnelBear's free services are known to work on FireStick. However, they limit data or the number of devices you can use. I recommend using ExpressVPN as it has a native app for FireStick, so it’s easy to configure. Plus, you can use it on up to 8 devices simultaneously without bandwidth limits or data caps. The only drawback is that it's not free but comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Is there a VPN addon for Kodi?

Yes, simply install the Zomboided VPN Manager addon on Kodi to easily manage VPN connections. Choose a VPN with a large network to easily access and watch the Kodi content you want. At the moment, you can install this addon on Kodi running on LibreELEC, OpenELEC, Windows, and Linux.

Get the Best VPN for Kodi

While the free VPNs on this list have high-level encryption and leak protection, most can still compromise your security when using Kodi. Premium VPNs let you access Kodi content anywhere without compromising your privacy and security. Plus, they let you stream as much as you want without buffering.

My top choice for Kodi is ExpressVPN because of its advanced security features and excellent speeds. Plus, it’s easy to install, so you can use it with Kodi immediately. Even better, you can try ExpressVPN risk-free, and if you don’t like it, you have 30 days to claim a full refund.

To summarize, these are the best free VPNs for Kodi...