© 2023 CoolTechZone - Latest tech news,
product reviews, and analyses.

If you purchase via links on our site, we may receive affiliate commissions.

Best VPNs for Popcorn Time in 2023

24

Popcorn Time is a free streaming service that gives you unlimited access to the most popular movies and shows. But because it's based on P2P, your privacy and safety can be at risk. Therefore, you'll need some help from a trustworthy VPN for Popcorn Time.

A VPN will protect your torrenting efforts and prevent any privacy breaches. Additionally, it will stop your Internet Service Provider (ISP) from slowing you down with bandwidth throttling.

So, read through the list, get the best VPN for Popcorn Time, and stream your favorite shows and movies like there's no tomorrow!

Best VPNs for Popcorn Time: shortlist

  1. NordVPN: the best VPN for Popcorn Time. The provider offers an extensive server list, some of the fastest speeds in the industry (thanks to NordLynx), and P2P-optimized servers.
  2. Surfshark VPN: a Popcorn Time VPN with no device limit, RAM-only servers, and the Bypasser tool for routing VPN traffic via select apps only.
  3. IPVanish: affordable and versatile VPN for Popcorn Time. It comes with real-time protection, unlimited simultaneous connections, and an independently-audited no-logs policy.
  4. Proton VPN: security-first Popcorn Time VPN that offers VPN Accelerator for excellent speeds, broad device compatibility, and Secure Core for preventing network-based attacks.
  5. PureVPN: a VPN for Popcorn Time with dedicated IPs, port forwarding, and one of the biggest server fleets in the market.

How to install a VPN with Popcorn Time

  1. Choose the best VPN for Popcorn Time. My favorite is NordVPN, now with a massive discount!
  2. Install the VPN app on the device of your choice
  3. Connect to a server best suited for you
  4. Open up Popcorn time and binge-watch anything you want!

Why do you need a VPN for Popcorn Time?

Getting a VPN for Popcorn Time should be a no-brainer, as the service is not entirely safe on its own. Because it's a platform based on P2P file-sharing, anyone with the right tools can see your activities on the web.

Without a VPN, you're leaving your IP address and activities associated with it exposed. Copyright holders take infringement very seriously, and you might find yourself in their crosshairs. It's even worse when impersonators (trolls seeking to get a laugh out of someone else's misery) choose to target you, often seeking monetary gain with blackmail.

Moreover, some countries ban torrenting altogether. You might get fined or even imprisoned if they catch you downloading copyrighted files illegally.

Why do you need a VPN for Popcorn Time

Additionally, even if P2P is legal in your country, your ISP can throttle your bandwidth. This can lead to abysmal downloading speeds, lagging, and never-ending loading screens. Luckily, you can avoid these issues by getting the best VPN, which will let you fly under the radar and download as many movies and shows as you want.

Best Popcorn Time VPNs: overview

My primary mission was to find VPNs that will ensure your safety and privacy while streaming on Popcorn Time. The provider research criteria consisted of three main points: allows P2P sharing, has robust security features and doesn't collect user activity data. Additionally, I looked for some extra useful features, like port forwarding, dedicated IPs, or split tunneling.

As a result, the listed top Popcorn Time VPNs include them and offer exceptional speeds, excellent coverage, and loads of servers. Plus, they can easily bypass geo-restrictions, meaning that you can binge movies and shows anywhere.

1. NordVPN

NordVPN is the best VPN for Popcorn time because it ensures total security. It's based in privacy-friendly Panama, where collecting logs is not required, so your online activities won't be tracked. And this provider's no-logs policy has been audited twice by third parties, ensuring a spotless reputation.

Here, you'll find great global coverage, with suitable server options on every continent. All of them allow torrenting, but you'll benefit the most from dedicated P2P servers. Moreover, downloads will be over before you notice it and the streams extra smooth, thanks to the proprietary NordLynx tunneling protocol.

Every subscription comes with 6 simultaneous connections you can utilize on all major operating systems, such as Windows, iOS, Android TV, etc. And if that's not enough, the Smartplay DNS feature lets you stream on devices that don't usually support VPNs. Otherwise, you can set up NordVPN on your router for full household coverage.

You can make the most of Popcorn Time with split tunneling and SOCKS5 proxies. Essentially, both do the same thing – route VPN traffic through chosen apps only. But only split tunneling encrypts it.

Read our full NordVPN review here

2. Surfshark

Surfshark is another great Popcorn Time VPN choice. The provider doesn't have to collect any logs, as it's based in the Netherlands, so your privacy is safe and sound. Additionally, you get essential security features, like bank-grade encryption, leak protection, and a robust kill switch.

There are plenty of servers to go around, and all of them have torrenting enabled. And due to the trusty WireGuard tunneling protocol, you get to enjoy 4K-ready speeds. Moreover, the Camouflage Mode feature will help you use Surfshark and torrent trouble-free in highly restricted countries, like China, Russia, or Venezuela.

On top of that, there's no device limit, so you can set up the VPN on everything you have in the house and stream Popcorn Time effortlessly. What's more, if you own consoles or smart TVs (devices that don't support VPNs), you can utilize the Smart DNS feature to circumvent this problem.

With Surfshark, your most-used feature will probably be Bypasser. It's this provider's name for split tunneling – just select which apps you want to be encrypted by the VPN and continue browsing like usual.

You can read our full Surfshark VPN review here

3. IPVanish

If you're looking for an all-around great and safe Popcorn Time VPN, IPVanish is an excellent option. It's packed with all the necessary essentials to keep you safe no matter what you're doing online. Additionally, this provider's no-logs policy has been audited by third parties, proving its reliability.

The whole network is P2P-optimized, so finding a server for Popcorn Time will be a breeze. More so, all hardware is self-owned and bare metal, meaning better performance and tighter security. And if you pick the WireGuard protocol from the available ones, HD movies and shows are a guarantee.

The service has many nifty features, such as OpenVPN Scramble. It puts an extra layer of security and allows you to use IPVanish and torrent in countries like China, Saudi Arabia, or UAE. Additionally, the provider offers dedicated apps for many operating systems and you can protect them without limitations.

Just like NordVPN, this provider offers split tunneling and SOCKS5 proxies. And there's a solution for people afraid of downloading malware-infested files – the VIPRE antivirus software.

Read our full IPVanish review here

4. Proton VPN

If safety is your main priority, Proton VPN has you covered. It's a superb Popcorn Time VPN which ensures your privacy thanks to the favorable jurisdiction (Switzerland) and a strict zero-logs policy. Additionally, this service has a fantastic free version that you can use if you're on a tight budget.

There are plenty of servers to go around, and the ones optimized for P2P file sharing are marked with a double arrow. While the WireGuard protocol brings excellent performance (as expected), the star of the show is the VPN Accelerator feature. It can boost your connection speed by 400% and works particularly well over long distances.

Proton VPN is one of the few providers that offers port forwarding, which maximizes your connectivity while downloading torrents. It's only available on Windows, though.

Now, if you're tired of invasive ads, constant user tracking, and potential cyber attacks, Proton VPN has a solution for that. It's aptly called NetShield and does exactly what the name suggests.Read our full Proton VPN review here

5. PureVPN

Based in the privacy-friend British Virgin Islands, PureVPN is one of the best choices for Popcorn Time fans. It's an ideal VPN to protect your torrenting efforts with a twice-audited, strict zero-logs policy. And it includes excellent security features to boot.

PureVPN has one of the largest server networks in the market, with torrenting enabled in all countries where P2P is legal. Stable and fast connectivity no matter what you're doing on the interwebs is expected with the WireGuard protocol, too.

The service offers dedicated apps for all major OS, like Android TV, Windows, Mac, etc. Plus, PureVPN can help you bypass geo-blocks and unlock multiple streaming platforms, such as Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+.

Split tunneling is available, but you only get to use it on Windows and Android devices. Port forwarding is also an option, yet you'll have to pay extra for access to this feature.

Read our full PureVPN review here

How to choose the best VPN for Popcorn Time

Finding a suitable VPN for Popcorn Time by yourself can get tricky, especially if you don't know which features to prioritize. I've tried and tested loads of services according to the essential criteria:

  • Utmost privacy. Total anonymity can only be ensured if your VPN provider isn't tracking what you're doing online as well. It's mandatory for the service to have a strict zero-logs policy, and it's even better if it has been audited by an independent third party.
  • P2P-friendly. You won't be able to download anything if the Popcorn Time VPN doesn't allow P2P traffic. Additionally, features like port forwarding and split tunneling will make everything quicker and smoother.
  • Robust security. The VPN for Popcorn Time should offer all core security features, like NASA-grade encryption, leak protection, and a solid kill switch. Additional features, such as tracker blockers or Stealth VPN, will also come in handy.
  • Expansive network. Global coverage is essential for connecting to countries where torrenting is legal and finding the best server for you. Additionally, seek VPNs with self-owned and RAM-only hardware for more security and better performance.
  • Excellent speeds. You don't want to be stuck in a constant loop of loading screens when enjoying Popcorn Time. Therefore, you'll need a VPN with the latest tunneling protocols.

How to set up a VPN for Popcorn Time on your device

Popcorn Time is a fantastic alternative to subscription-based services like Hulu and Netflix. However, it's a torrent-based platform, meaning some content might be copyrighted, and watching it might get you fined. Thus, you'll need a VPN to avoid any troubles.

Set up a VPN for Popcorn Time

While many people enjoy Popcorn Time on a computer, you might want to binge while on the go or on the big screen. To stay absolutely secure in every instance, you'll need to install a VPN on your most-used devices.

How to set up Popcorn Time VPN on PC

  1. Grab the best P2P VPN, such as NordVPN which has servers dedicated to torrenting
  2. Download the appropriate app, Windows or Mac, and install it on your computer
  3. Connect to a server that works best for you
  4. Get the Popcorn Time application and set it up
  5. Open the streaming app and begin watching!

How to set up Popcorn Time VPN on mobile

  1. Subscribe to a premium VPN. You can never go wrong with NordVPN, the ultimate Popcorn Time VPN.
  2. Set up the dedicated client on your iPhone or Android phone
  3. Pick a server located in a country where torrenting is allowed
  4. Install the Popcorn Time app on your mobile
  5. Browse the vast selection of movies with Popcorn Time VPN!

How to set up Popcorn Time VPN on Chromecast

  1. Pick the best Chormecast VPN. Don't hesitate and choose NordVPN, the provider with broad device compatibility.
  2. Install the VPN and connect to a server
  3. Download the Popcorn app on your computer. Make sure that your Chromecast is connected to it and on the same Wi-Fi network
  4. Launch the app and stream your favorite shows trouble-free!

How to set up Popcorn Time VPN on other devices

  1. Choose the most reliable Popcorn Time VPN. We suggest NordVPN, now with a huge discount!
  2. Manually configure the VPN on your router. Most providers offer detailed instructions on their websites, and some router models have their own VPN setup guides.
  3. Connect any device to the newly-secured network
  4. Get the Popcorn Time app on the device of your choice and install it
  5. Binge endless content safely with Popcorn Time VPN!

VPN not working with Popcorn Time

Unfortunately, we don't live in a perfect world, and VPNs might sometimes fail us. A few of the most common issues that Popcorn Time VPN users run into are poor connectivity or the inability to log in. There's no need to freak out, though – here are some easy ways to solve the problems:

  • Check if Popcorn Time is down. Check the official sources if any servers are experiencing downtime due to new updates or fixes.
  • Make sure your VPN permits torrenting. Since Popcorn Time utilizes peer-to-peer file sharing for streaming, your VPN must allow torrent traffic. Therefore, check your provider's stance on P2P.
  • Connect to another country. Some regions might ban Popcorn Time, so join a server in a place where torrenting is allowed, for example, Switzerland.
  • Reboot Popcorn Time and the VPN. Sometimes all you need is a little restart. After that, open up the Popcorn Time app first and then enable the VPN.
  • Disable third-party firewalls. Antivirus software might be preventing Popcorn Time from accessing P2P sharing websites. Whitelist the streaming service or disable the firewall and the antivirus.
  • Reinstall the Popcorn Time app. Your software might be outdated, so you either have to get the latest version or delete it and install Popcorn Time again.

If the steps above don't solve the problem, try contacting your VPN's customer support. Still didn't help? You might want to switch to a different Popcorn Time VPN provider that can do its job.

The Popcorn Time VPN warning

If you're new to Popcorn Time or if you don't use a VPN, a warning will pop up whenever you press on a media file. The message encourages you to turn on a Popcorn Time built-in VPN and protect yourself from your ISP and cyber intelligence agencies.

Popcorn Time warning

Popcorn Time VPN is a free service that swears to hide your IP address and protect you from prying eyes. However, the provider clearly states that they do monitor user activity. Additionally, this VPN can hardly bypass geo-restrictions and offers tortoise-like speeds.

Thus, while it's not a fantastic service, it's a great reminder that a VPN for Popcorn Time is crucial. We don't recommend using the built-in VPN, but we suggest getting a reliable VPN.

Free Popcorn Time VPNs

There are countless free VPNs that claim they are perfect for Popcorn Time. But don't trust all of them – the vast majority of costless providers will either:

  • collect your data
  • bombard you with annoying ads
  • destroy your devices with malware

It's really not worth putting yourself even more at risk, and you're better off looking at alternatives. For instance, you can take advantage of the free trials many premium providers offer for curious users. At least for a limited time, you get to utilize the full tool suite without any limitations. And when the trial is over, simply download another one from a different service.

VPNs to avoid with Popcorn Time

By now, you know which VPNs are the best for Popcorn Time. Nonetheless, we believe that you should know about providers that do the opposite of keeping you safe and anonymous. All VPNs below claim to be free, however, you pay the ultimate price by compromising your security and privacy.

ProviderReasons to avoid
Betternet VPNExtensively logs user activity data and has issues with IP and DNS leaks
Turbo VPNIncludes invasive third-party advertising, malware, and unsafe permissions. Has issues with DNS leaks
SuperVPNExtensively logs user activity data, doesn't even unblock web content, and has dubious ties to China

Is Popcorn Time still worth it in 2023?

While the app is still out there, Popcorn Time lost its popularity due to constant shutdowns. Additionally, at the beginning of 2022, Popcorn Time was shut down. Nevertheless, according to the Popcorn Time Reddit FAQ, there are some workarounds you can find here.

But if you don't want to get into the nitty-gritty, numerous other ways to stream endless content exist. One of them is to get a Netflix, Hulu, or Disney+ subscription. While they're not free, you'll get loads of movies and shows to watch without potential legal trouble. Additionally, with a Popcorn Time VPN, you can bypass geo-restrictions and get content that is only available in certain regions.

If you don't want to pay, you can look into some Popcorn Time alternatives. However, you'll still need a Popcorn Time VPN to avoid any trouble and fines. So, I highly recommend picking the best VPN out there – NordVPN.

Popcorn Time alternatives

While it's sad to see Popcorn Time slowly fade away, you have to move on and find other Popcorn Time alternatives. There are hundreds of streaming platforms that offer similar services. Lucky you, I picked the best free Popcorn Time alternatives. Just remember – you'll still need a Popcorn Time VPN to stay anonymous and safe.

Kodi

Main features:

  • Support a variety of devices, including PC, mobile, Smart TVs, etc.
  • Has plenty of excellent add-ons for streaming content
  • Absolutely free

Kodi is a free open-source home entertainment software and a perfect alternative for Popcorn Time. The platform has loads of plugins for downloading, streaming and organizing video content. It's similar to Popcorn Time in the way that it has a lot of unofficial add-ons that use P2P files, meaning you might get in trouble for downloading them.

Thankfully, a Popcorn Time VPN will prevent any calamities and allow you to kick back and enjoy your shows. So, check out the best Kodi plugins and stream as much as you want!

Stremio

Main features:

  • Costless service
  • Many P2P-based plugins
  • Remote access

Stremio is another excellent Popcorn Time alternative. While it has fewer add-ons than Kodi, Stremio is still a worthy platform to consider. Additionally, it's one of only media players of its kind with a fully functional Netflix plugin.

Thus, if you want to binge your favorite shows hassle-free, get a Popcorn Time VPN, like Surfshark, grab the best addon for streaming, like RARBG, and enjoy the show!

Popcornflix

Main features:

  • Don't need any additional apps
  • Latest movies and shows in 4K
  • No additional fees

Popcornflix is a website filled with blockbuster movies and shows. Unlike previous counterparts, you won't have to download any apps or plugins to watch anything. It's a simple Popcorn Time alternative that guarantees endless entertainment. Nevertheless, to protect your privacy and security, use one of the top-tier Popcorn Time VPNs.

CouchPotato

Main features:

  • Supports Windows and Mac platforms
  • Movies and shows in HD-quality
  • Free to use

Lastly, CouchPotato is a torrent-based alternative for Popcorn Time. Moreover, you can also use the auto-download option to stream TV shows and movies with zero hassle. However, you'll need a VPN, such as NordVPN, to unblock geo-restricted content and avoid any problems.

Bottom line

Popcorn Time is a tremendous free streaming platform with more movies and shows than you can imagine. However, because it's basically a P2P platform, binging content there might result in hefty fines if you're not careful enough.

Therefore, you'll need one of the best Popcorn Time VPNs, like NordVPN. It lets you torrent hassle-free, guarantees stable connectivity, and ensures your privacy and security. Not to mention, this VPN will help you bypass any geo-restrictions and give you access to loads of new content on other streaming platforms and websites.

What was your favorite Popcorn Time VPN? What alternative do you use now? Share in the comments!

You might also want to read:

FAQ


Comments

Frank Kean
Frank Kean
prefix 1 year ago
If you want to use torrent software safely - pay for vpn! Yes, there are some free VPNs, but they have speed and traffic limits. The biggest issue with free vpns is that some free vpns have been known to sell you data.

That's how they make money. You can try the cheapest premium service Surfshark for less than $2 per month. Torrenting isn't safe without vpn in 2021.
OxenFree
OxenFree
prefix 1 year ago
I heard the new version of Popcorn time offers a generic web-based streaming and not torrent based also lost a couple of tabs and sections. The previous version can be found on Github, so just FYI. As for VPN, I think your article will be useful for those who have just downloaded Popcorn time. I've been using ExpressVPN for years, but when I just started I got Browsec VPN but I didn't like it, can't remember for what reason exactly now that years have passed.
lisahartman
lisahartman
prefix 1 year ago
Been using popcorn time for a while, thanks to vpn services. I saw a lot of complaints about them forcing to use vpn, but in reality, it's not like that. They literally make watchin stuff for free real, but with a proper vpn it's even better. I personally use hide.me since I prefer their strict no-logs policy, but I will probably switch to one from the list, thanks.
zZzZzZzZz
zZzZzZzZz
prefix 1 year ago
Netflix for pirates??? I've never heard about this torrent website tbh. I use the pirate bay always. Is it a free alternative to subscription-based video services like amazon prime and netflix? The only problem - there is no official access to a Popcorn Time Smart TV app. Is it hard to install the .APK file manually or not? Can you please help me?
cooltech
cooltech
prefix 1 year ago
Describe why you can not download PT without APK?
hunterspath
hunterspath
prefix 2 years ago
Recently I found out there were two versions of Popcorn torrent and two different developers forked the code, so now there are two versions of it. Popcorn time sh saves a lot of temporary files into memory and doesn't clean up after itself so I like this one less, though it work on android tv so it may be an advantage for someone. I wonder if all these VPNs work with both versions. Anyone?
cooltech
cooltech
prefix 2 years ago
Yes, all VPNs listed in the article work with both versions of Popcorn Time
zb1978
zb1978
prefix 2 years ago
I always use a VPN, even if it’s a free one with slow speed. Because I don't want to get tracked by others when using Popcorn Time. It is not legal in many countries to download content via torrent websites. Your internet provider can send you a warning letter, suspend your internet service, or worse, send your data to law enforcement agencies, depending on where you live. So be careful and always use VPN to protect your data. hide.me is the best free one but it allows you to download only 2 GB per month.
jessypark
jessypark
prefix 2 years ago
I've been using NordVPN for a long time, though it became kinda expensive for me recently. I've also become more concerned about grabbing a bargain that would include the best features, along with reasonable prices. I'm currently using CyberGhost VPN for just $ 2,75 per month, which is a really affordable option using which you'll be able to get free movies and series access. Though I should warn you that you also will need to get additional settings along with and, it offers too much user control as well.
Wayne Andrews
Wayne Andrews
prefix 2 years ago
Popcorn Time is now available for ios! Finally!! Popcorn Time was shut down several times, and it had its IP blocked in some countries. If you are from the US or UK, you must use a VPN to watch content via Popcorn Time. My friend got just got a DMCA email from his internet provider for using popcorn. We both have Comcast but I've never got a warning for pirating because I have ZenMate. VPN services can hide popcorn time from your internet providers. So pick a good VPN service provider that supports p2p, doesn't keep logs, and won't give information about you without a court order.
JohnWhipst
JohnWhipst
prefix 2 years ago
In my experience, PIA is probably the best VPN service for PopcornTime. It’s pretty much ideal in every way: its price is not sky high, it has a lot of useful features, it is easy to use, speeds are alright, etc. However, my advice is to test as many services on your own as you can to see which one is the best one. Most of them provide a free period that you can use to do the testing.
Sam
Sam
prefix 2 years ago
After registration Popcorn Time asks me to subscribe to its VPN on Android. Can I use another VPN?
gregor
gregor
prefix 2 years ago
I must warn everyone! When using a free VPN for Popcorn Time, users don’t get enough bandwidth to watch movies without buffering. As for downloading torrents, the things are even from bad to worth. The traffic limits restrict people in the number of files one can download. In view of traffic limits, a man can start downloading a movie but will have to stop doing it because of these limits!
from-hotel-Summer
from-hotel-Summer
prefix 2 years ago
Reminder for everyone to keep their VPN running all the while Popcorn time is open. Even if you’re not downloading anything… While it is open, you’re still a seeder for the stuff you have downloaded / are watching so be careful and don’t forget about precautions.
StalinSuit
StalinSuit
prefix 2 years ago
I’m actually pretty sure you can watch PT with ProtonVPN’s free version. I currently can’t check if it’s true because I have the paid plan but I would welcome any comments on this.
zeroflight
zeroflight
prefix 2 years ago
As a recommendation for PopcornTime (that is, if you don’t use it for anything else) I can mention VeePN for its good price. Far as I know, it doesn’t keep logs and is overall okay if not perfect.
admiral-nagumo
admiral-nagumo
prefix 2 years ago
Be careful not to get a wrong Popcorn time app, guys! There are some forks or downright scams that Google puts first for some reason when you search for PT. The real one is popcorntime-dot-app. Those wrong ones will download all sorts of crap without your permission, such as Safe Watch VPN that displays a million ads an hour (which is, as you should know, a security risk) and doesn’t tell you it costs around 50-60 bucks per 6 months until you install it.
Mrs. Feet
Mrs. Feet
prefix 2 years ago
Hey I just decided to reach out to you having read your review. I’m using Popcorn Time quite extensively and I’d like to know more about its proprietary VPN service. You briefly mention it in this article but could you please tell me more about it? Like does it have some unique selling point and such?
JK
JK
prefix 2 years ago
Although I know that a free VPN for Popcorn Time is not a good idea, I’ve tried ProtonVPN. Its free servers don’t support p2p anymore. It’s better to use paid VPNs.
Jhon hendri
Jhon hendri
prefix 2 years ago
please review racevpn.com
Juan C.
Juan C.
prefix 2 years ago
I wanted to use Popcorn Time in combination with VPN. I’ve subscribed to the top provider – NordVPN. But I was a bit confused when I haven’t found any setting on my Apple TV. Started surfing the Internet and forums. And here’s what I’ve found out. There’s no way to install NordVPN on Apple TV. Instead, it’s offered to configure it on the router connected to your Apple TV. It didn’t take much time. And voila – I use Popcorn Time with NO restrictions.
K Rajesh
K Rajesh
prefix 3 years ago
Thanks for the information
Stan The Onion Man
Stan The Onion Man
prefix 3 years ago
Can’t recommend TunnelBear at all guys. Used it with Popcorn time and got a warning because my ISP still learned I was torrenting. No idea how that happened but it did. Not the best experience. I admit it was way back in the day so maybe things have changed since then but I’m sure as heck ain’t going back to this service!
Miss Americana
Miss Americana
prefix 3 years ago
Hi, your review is super! Thanks for your work. However, I am still afraid to download popcorn time. A friend of mine received a letter from his ISP. So I think that using a VPN for Popcorn Time is even worse. I know that lots of customers use VPN services exactly for torrenting and watching streaming services. But I can’t.. Is it illegal to use popcorn time? What troubles can I face?
Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked

Cool Tech ZoneCyber Security Labs & News