Best VPNs for Nvidia Shield TV in 2024 (+ Setup Guide)
The Nvidia Shield is an Android TV-based digital media player. The platform is part of Nvidia’s Shield franchise, and it has gained a lot of attention for its ease of use and catalog of content available for streaming.
With the Shield, you can act as a hub for your smart home and stream games from your computer to your TV. The product also acts as a media player for local and online content that you would like to stream and enjoy.
Premium streaming services usually do a lot of restrictions based on geographical location. So, it’s no surprise that Nvidia Shield does too. Thankfully, however, we have a set of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) that can seamlessly bypass these restrictions. See them below to find out which one you prefer.
Top Recommended VPNs for Nvidia Shield
Here are the best VPNs for Nvidia Shield
ExpressVPN
Features
- Number of servers: More than 3,000
- Speeds: Unlimited
- Server locations: 160 in 105 countries
- Maximum devices supported: 5
- 24 live chat: Yes
- 30-day money-back guarantee: Yes
Pros/Cons
- Fastest VPN out there
- Strict no logs policy
- 256-bit AES encryption
- Few discounts
Kicking off our list is ExpressVPN. This VPN has risen to the top of the VPN industry and held its place for many years, thanks in no small part to its combination of top-notch features and extensive coverage.
Many believe that ExpressVPN is the best VPN service in the world. Whether you believe it or not, you can’t deny that it’s a great choice. This VPN provides access to over 3,000 servers in more than 94 countries, including high-traffic areas like the United States and Europe. Whatever restrictions are on Nvidia Shield, you know that you can bypass them with ExpressVPN.
You will also achieve optimal access to restricted content with ExpressVPN. Tests have shown that it can break the restrictions on streaming services like Netflix so that you can stream hassle-free. Internet connection is top-notch, so all you need is a device with a secure connection to get going.
Security is another area where ExpressVPN shines. You get AES 256-bit encryption for your on-network safety and a kill switch when you lose connection to the network. You will also love the service’s IPv6 leak protection and DNS leak protection features.
ExpressVPN also employs Perfect Forward Secrecy, which changes your security keys at intervals to improve your safety. Other critical security features include protection from DNS, IPv6, and Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks. This service doesn’t collect any data on you, so their no-logs policy protects you from accidental data leaks.
ExpressVPN is available for all major platforms, including macOS, Windows, iOS, Android, and Linux. There are browser extensions for Google Chrome and Firefox, and you can connect five devices to a single account.
- Pros: Fastest VPN out there; Strict no logs policy; 256-bit AES encryption;
- Lowest price: $6.67
NordVPN
Features
- Cryptocurrency accepted? Yes
- Simultaneous connections: 6
- Dedicated IP-addresses? Yes
- Servers: 5342 in 58 countries
Pros/Cons
- Lots of pricing options
- Netflix support kept up to date
- 256-bit AES encryption
- Slow app
Our next top VPN service for people who love streaming on Nvidia Shield is NordVPN. Like ExpressVPN, this product has also made quite a name for itself over the years.
NordVPN contends with ExpressVPN in some key areas. For one, the product allows you access to over 5,400 servers worldwide — although its country-count of 59 is just a bit lower than ExpressVPN. This VPN also allows you to connect six devices, while ExpressVPN only offers five. This goes to show that the provider is also a force to be reckoned with. With NordVPN, you get access to all top platforms, including iOS, Windows, Android, Linux, and Mac. There are also extensions for browsers and a firmware version for Android TV.
The service provides a global reach, and you also get the best security features. You get AES-256-GCM for encryption, and the service also provides Perfect Forward Secrecy to change keys and prevent anyone from accessing your keys regularly.
NordVPN also incorporates Onion over VPN protocol, which routes your traffic through its network before you get to your destination site. The service adds a kill switch, so you are safe even when you disconnect from its network.
You get the best out of accessibility on NordVPN. It bypasses restrictions on Netflix and Hulu, so Nvidia Shield is no match for it. Internet connection is also pretty secure, so you can stream your favorite content without buffering or breaks.
- Pros: Lots of pricing options; Netflix support kept up to date; 256-bit AES encryption;
- Lowest price: $3.71
Surfshark
Features
- Free trial? Yes
- Simultaneous connections: Unlimited
- Ad blocking? Yes
- Servers: 1000+ in 61 countries
Pros/Cons
- No footprints
- Allows torrenting
- 256-bit AES encryption
- Not the fastest
Surfshark is a great VPN option. Many love it because of the top security and connectivity features, while others herald the VPN’s affordability.
The security features on Surfshark are also quite impressive. It has the widespread AES 256-bit encryption and a kill switch for off-network safety and protection from IPv6 and DNS leaks. However, Surfshark does even better. It offers an ad blocker, so you don’t get any disturbance from any pesky ads. There’s also a URL blocking feature that restricts access to websites that have enormous loads of malware.
As expected, Surfshark doesn’t take any information about your identity, location, or activities while you use the service. You can access all restricted sites on Surfshark so that you can stream and enjoy your online experience. The addition of an optimal internet connection makes things even better.
It is available for macOS, Windows, Linux, and Android. There are also extensions for Chrome and Firefox. Unlike many others, however, it doesn’t place a cap on how many devices you can connect to a single paid account. Just get as many devices as you can and be ready to roll.
As for downsides, you won’t get enough servers like many other VPN options. Surfshark has 1,700 servers across 63 countries. Note, however, that there is easy access to high-traffic locations. So, you won’t have any trouble accessing Nvidia Shield.
- Pros: No footprints; Allows torrenting; 256-bit AES encryption;
- Lowest Price: $2.49
PrivateInternetAccess
Features
- IP cloaking? Yes
- Access to US domains? Yes
- Devices supported: Over 30 (including iOS and Android)
- Firewalls? Yes
- Servers: 3000+ in over 25 countries
Pros/Cons
- Military grade encryption
- Firewall
- Completely private browsing
- Lesser known provider
You might not know PIA, but with the way they’ve been operating, that will change soon. The service has started making a name for itself in the internet industry, and its impressive line-up of features shows why.
On PIA, you get access to 2,500 servers across about 40+ countries. This gives you access to high-traffic locations. PIA supports peer-to-peer file sharing. Its connection speed is pretty good, so you’re okay with a robust mobile connection. You can access all restricted services with this provider — including, but not limited to, Nvidia Shield.
Moving on, PIA provides optimal security as well. The VPN even allows you to select between two encryption types — AES 128bit and AES 256-bit. PIA also provides a kill switch. As you stream on Nvidia Shield, you will get access to the best in security.
But that’s not all. PIA also has a MACE feature, which improves security even when you access high malware and ad content websites. The only slight problem with PIA’s security is that the network stores some of your information. However, none of that information can be used to identify you. The VPN also deletes these logs as soon as you disconnect from its network.
In terms of availability, the VPN provides support for Android, iOS, and Windows. Browser extensions are available for Firefox, Google Chrome, and Opera.
- Pros: Military grade encryption; Firewall; Completely private browsing;
- Lowest price: €2.50
UltraVPN
Features
- One click connect? Yes
- Servers: 100+ superfast servers
- Bandwidth cap? No
- Platforms: Mac, Windows, iOS, Android
Pros/Cons
- Firewall
- Apps for all devices
- 256-bit AES encryption
- Not as many servers as others
Still, in the league of VPNs that don’t have much popularity, we have UltraVPN — a service provider that undoubtedly does its best to keep up with the crème de la crème of the industry.
UltraVPN’s most significant benefit appears to be its ease of use. For people who want convenience and who might not know much about technical terminologies, UltraVPN is the top choice. Its interface is easy to use, and you don’t need any manual installation to connect your service. Thanks to optimal connection speed and an easy way to bypass security features, UltraVPN is also great for people who want to connect to Nvidia Shield.
Security isn’t a problem for UltraVPN. There’s military-grade encryption at the ready and a Kill switch too. The service even provides DNS leak protection, so you don’t have any problems. UltraVPN collects some logs, but none of that pertains to the activities you engage in while online.
As for downsides, the service doesn’t have as much coverage as many others on our list. There are 1000 servers across 50+ countries, but you will get access to high-traffic areas. The service is also not available for every platform — save for macOS, Android, and iOS. One account on UltraVPN allows you to connect up to three devices.
- Pros: Firewall; Apps for all devices; 256-bit AES encryption;
- Lowest price: €2.99
CyberGhost
Features
- Connected devices at once: 7
- Automatic kill switch? Yes
- One click connect: Yes
- Servers: 5900 worldwide
Pros/Cons
- No logs policy
- 24/7 live chat
- Apps for mobile devices and routers
- No free option
CyberGhost is a famous name for sure. It owes that fame especially to its server coverage, which includes a staggering 6,400 servers across about 90+ countries. On this list, no other VPN service has more servers by raw numbers.
This abundance of servers means that you can access the best, high-traffic locations. Simultaneously, the VPN provides an optimal internet connection for you to seamlessly connect to online services and bypass the security features of platforms like Hulu, Netflix, and Nvidia Shield.
Moving on to security, CyberGhost does well by its customers. You get the usual — military-grade encryption, leak protection, and a kill switch. However, the VPN also adds some other much-needed features. These include automated HTTPS redirection, which helps you connect to the most secure websites. The VPN also comes with malware-tracking and ad-blocking features to optimize your safety. Like many other top VPN choices, CyberGhost doesn’t take your logs or data.
If you’re using a mobile, then you’ll love CyberGhost even more. The VPN provides optimal data compression, which will reduce your bandwidth and save you a lot of money. The service adds support for peer-to-peer file sharing, too, so you can do just about whatever you want.
CyberGhost is available for Windows, Android, iOS, macOS, and Linux. However, Linux users will need to do some manual installation work to access it.
- Pros: No logs policy; 24/7 live chat; Apps for mobile devices and routers;
- Lowest price: €2
TrustZone
Features
- Complete anonymity? Yes
- Unblocking of all websites? Yes
- Pricing options: 4
- Servers: 164 in 80+ zones
- Free trial: Yes
Pros/Cons
- Military grade encryption
- Bitcoin accepted
- App for mobile devices
- Lesser known provider
Last but not least is Trust.Zone — a modest VPN that still manages to get the job done. To be fair, Trust.Zone doesn’t have much of a high server count. There are only about 180 servers on the VPN, and they are spread across 40 countries. While the high-traffic areas are available, some users might not be so impressed.
The service also only has primary clients for Windows and Android. Users on other platforms will need some manual installation work before they can access the VPN.
Trust.Zone has optimal security features, as expected. Encryption is military-grade, and there is a kill switch to protect you too. The VPN also doesn’t collect any of your data, thanks to a strict no-logs policy that protects you.
Internet connection is not too strong on Trust.Zone. But, if you have a device that is reliable enough, you shouldn’t have a problem. The VPN accesses services like Netflix and Hulu seamlessly. So, be confident that it can access Nvidia Shield and allow you to stream on the network.
- Pros: Military grade encryption; Bitcoin accepted; App for mobile devices;
- Lowest price: €3
How to Set Up a VPN for Nvidia Shield
Nvidia Shield runs primarily on the AndroidTV platform. So, your VPN will need to be compatible with that platform too. If you have such a VPN, you merely have to do the following:
- On your Shield, open the Google Play Store.
- Search for your VPN on the marketplace.
- When you find the VPN, select it, and open its dedicated app page.
- Select “Install.”
- Accept the permission requirements and install the VPN.
- Open the VPN, login, and connect to it from there.
If your selected VPN doesn’t have an Android TV app, you can still access Nvidia Shield. Just do the following:
- On your PC, open a browser and log on to your VPN provider’s site.
- Download the VPN’s Android APK to a USB flash drive.
- Eject the flash drive when you’ve downloaded it.
- On your Shield, go to Settings>Security and Registrations.
- Go to the “Unknown Sources” tab and press “OK.”
- Go back to the home screen and open Google Play.
- Search for “ES File Explorer” or “FX File Explorer.”
- On the app page, install and accept permissions for the app.
- Insert your flash drive into the Shield.
- Open the file explorer and navigate to the flash drive.
- Open the file you downloaded from your VPN’s site.
- Install the APK and click “Open.”
You’re now ready to use your VPN with your Nvidia Shield.
Can I Use a Free VPN for Nvidia Shield?
Yes, there may be free VPNs that are compatible with Nvidia Shield. However, finding an excellent one would be challenging. This is because many VPNs don’t have native apps for smart TVs. Therefore, you’d be unable to install the free VPN on your Nvidia Shield. Furthermore, using a free VPN with your Nvidia comes with many other dangers.
For example, while browsing on your TV, you’ll be at the mercy of cybercriminals. This is because many free VPNs don’t use solid encryption. Some VPNs don’t even use any encryption at all. In addition, free VPN providers sell user data and have data caps for streaming and downloading.
Frequently Asked Questions on the Best VPNs for Nvidia Shield TV
Does Nvidia Shield have a web browser?
No, the Nvidia Shield doesn’t have a web browser. There are no pre -browsers on the smart TV. Therefore, you’ll have to install one yourself. You have multiple options for getting a web browser on Nvidia Shield too. For example, you can download a browser from Google PlayStore. Furthermore, you can get the usual browsers that are available for Android devices. These include Firefox, Chrome, and Opera browsers.
Does Nvidia Shield support VPNs?
Yes, Nvidia Shield is compatible with VPNs. Therefore, you can easily install and use a VPN with your Nvidia Shield. Nvidia supports most of the top VPN service providers. The VPNs help protect data and guarantee an interesting streaming experience. In fact, any VPN that doesn’t work with Nvidia Shield is most likely not reliable. Furthermore, VPN usage is legal in most countries around the world. So, you also wouldn’t have any legal troubles for using a VPN on Nvidia Shield.
Do you really need a VPN for Nvidia Shield?
Yes, an Nvidia Shield VPN is absolutely necessary. This Android-based TV is primarily for streaming content. Therefore, an excellent VPN would help you unblock content beyond your current region. These would include entertainment and sports hot zones like the US. So, with a VPN, you can access streaming platforms like Netflix US, Hulu, HBO, HBO Max, etc. In addition, VPNs can keep you safe while watching programs on your Nvidia Shield.
How do I fix buffering on Nvidia Shield?
Buffering is the bane of streaming platforms. It can waste data and time while streaming on Nvidia Shield. Fortunately, you can fix buffering problems on Nvidia Shield. You can use the following steps:
- Reconnect your internet connection
- Clear your TV caches
- Reset your factory settings
- Reinstall the Nvidia Shield app
- Select a fast VPN to escape buffering
Can I watch Nvidia Shield through a VPN-enabled router?
Yes, you can connect your Nvidia TV to a VPN-enabled router for encryption and unblocking content. This step would be necessary where your VPN doesn’t have a native app for VPNs. All you need to do is configure the VPN on your router. Next, it would be best to test run the router’s VPN connection. If it works, you can then connect your Nvidia Shield to the router’s internet connection. An exciting advantage of using smart TVs over a VPN-enabled router is that all the gadgets connected to that router will benefit from the VPN’s features.
Conclusion
The Nvidia Shield is a robust platform for anyone who wants to access premium content online or locally. The platform also works for several functionalities, thus providing you an encompassing media experience. With any of these VPNs, you can unlock its full functionality and enjoy true freedom.