Looking for information about the Best VPN for HBO Max? Well, you’re at the right place! Due to copyright and licensing restrictions, the streaming service only makes its content available to audiences in 18 specific countries, but is rapidly rolling out globally.
This means, if you’re located in a region that is unsupported by HBO Max, you won’t be able to access the platform. And that’s a real bummer! After all, HBO Max is home to one of the biggest collections of popular movies, classic TV shows, series, epic dramas, HBO originals, and more!
With over 76.8 Million users already, HBO Max has amassed quite the following since its launch just two years ago in the United States. Luckily for you, there are ways to bypass geo-restrictions and content blocks on HBO Max with the help of a VPN.
How Do I Watch HBO Max with a VPN? (Quick Guide)
To unblock the service in an unsupported region and access the complete HBO Max movies/TV shows library, it’s recommended that you use a US IP address:
- Get a subscription to a VPN service. (We recommend ExpressVPN).
- Install the app and sign in using your credentials.
- Connect to a server in the United States.
- Visit the HBO Max website.
- Log in with your HBO Max account.
- Watch HBO Max without any interruptions.
Quick Summary of the Best HBO Max VPN
After an in-depth analysis and testing, we manage to find out the best virtual private networks (VPNs) for HBO Max. Listed below are top picks for unblocking HBO Max outside the supported regions without any hassle:
- ExpressVPN: The Best VPN for HBO Max. The top-ranking VPN with 23+ U.S. servers in 14 American cities. 30-day refund policy. 7-day free trial for iOS and Android. Subscriptions begin at $6.67/mo on a 12-Months plan + 3-months free.
- Surfshark: Affordable VPN for HBO Max. A cost-effective VPN with more than 500+ U.S. servers in 20+ American cities. 30-day refund policy for all plans. 7-day free trial for iOS and Android. Starts at $2.49/mo on a 2-year plan + 2 months free.
- NordVPN: Fastest HBO Max VPN. A great VPN with 1,970+ U.S. servers in 15+ American cities. 7-day free trial for Android and iOS devices. 30-day refund policy. The standard plan starts at $3.99/mo on a 2-year plan (51% off).
Why Do I Need a VPN for HBO Max?
Who doesn’t love to stream the trending shows and movies on HBO Max in HD quality? Everyone wants to! However, if you’ve tried to access your favorite content on HBO Max outside the specified regions, then you encounter an error on your screens,
“Sorry, HBO Max isn’t available in your region”.
This sounds really frustrating, right? HBO Max imposes content and copyright restrictions to protect themselves from distributing their content to unauthorized providers in other countries. This is where a Virtual Private Network (VPN) steps into the game!
A VPN masks your current IP address and reroutes it through an encrypted tunnel. Therefore, if you want to unblock HBO Max outside USA, all you need to do is connect to a VPN server in the United States. This will allow you to access HBO Max with complete ease.
The Best VPNs for HBO Max – Detailed Analysis
Wondering what is the best VPN for HBO Max? We’ve examined and tested 100 VPNs out of which 3 VPNs give tough competition to them due to their top-notch servers, quick connectivity, and robust security features. The following are the top 3 VPNs for unblocking HBO Max from anywhere in the world:
1. ExpressVPN: The Best VPN to Watch HBO Max
Total Servers: 3,000+ | Countries: 94+ | American Servers: 23+ in 14+ Cities | Trustpilot Rating: 4.7 | Simultaneous Connections: 5
ExpressVPN was founded in 2009 and is located in the British Virgin Islands. This VPN is listed as one of the best VPNs to watch HBO Max with its 23+ servers in 14+ American cities. It treats you well in getting around content limitations on HBO Max and other platforms like Hulu, Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney+.
When we tested ExpressVPN on a New Jersey server, we received an awe-inspiring download speed of 89.97Mbps and an upload speed of 86.51Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection. This means, you’ll enjoy a seamless and lag-free experience binge-watching on HBO Max.
With a single ExpressVPN subscription plan, you can connect up to 5 devices simultaneously. Moreover, the VPN is compatible with a myriad of devices, including Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and more. The best part of all: you can avail a 30-day money-back guarantee for plans that cost as low as $6.67/month.
Verdict: ExpressVPN has introduced exceptional technology in the form of its Lightway protocol, ensuring uninterrupted, fast, and smooth connectivity. For TVs and other large-screen devices that don’t support VPN applications, ExpressVPN even offers a MediaStreamer feature!
ExpressVPN HBO Max Testing: Working Servers
As of March 2023 testing, we recommend you to use the following USA servers that function exceptionally well. Recommended choices: New Jersey-3, Washington DC, New York.
- 5 Simultaneous Connections
- Verified "No-Logs" Policy
- 30-Day Refund Guarantee
- Headquartered in BVI
- 3,000+ Servers in 90+ Countries
- Split Tunneling/Network Kill Switch
- No Free Trial Available
2. Surfshark: Affordable VPN to Watch HBO Max
Total Servers: 3,200+ | Countries: 90+ | American Servers: 500+ in 20+ Cities | Trustpilot Rating: 4.3 | Simultaneous Connections: Unlimited
Those on a tight budget can opt for this cost-effective VPN–Surfshark which is based in the Netherlands and launched in 2018. It is an ideal VPN to watch all the hit movies and shows on HBO Max with its 500+ servers in 20+ American cities. Surfshark performs relatively well as compared to other VPNs for unlocking HBO Max anywhere in the world.
After testing Surfshark on the Los Angeles server, we received an amazing speed of 85.22 Mbps in download and an upload speed of 83.71 Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection. Simply connect to the Surfshark US server and discover a slate of exclusive shows such as Westworld, Euphoria, Last Night in Soho, and much more.
You’ll come over most VPNs that only offer 5 to 10 device connections on a single subscription, Surfshark enables its users to connect on unlimited devices simultaneously with a single subscription. On top of all, Surshark is a cost-effective VPN that costs $2.49/mo (81% Off on 2 Years Plan) along with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Verdict: Surfshark obscures your IP address with its obfuscation technology that tricks HBO Max into thinking that you’re actually browsing their content within the USA. Moreover, it incorporates some amazing features, such as GPS Spoofing, Multihop connect, and Bypasser.
Surfshark HBO Max Testing: Working Servers
To make your streaming experience even more flawless and buffer-free, we recommend using the following servers. Recommended choices: Los Angeles, Latham, Miami, Boston, & Detroit.
- Unlimited Simultaneous Logins
- No-Logs Policy Audited by Cure53
- 30-Day Moneyback Guarantee
- 7-Day Free Trial on iOS/Android
- 3,200+ Servers in 60+ Countries
- Headquartered in BVI
- No Split Tunneling on iOS
3. NordVPN: Fastest VPN to Watch HBO Max
Total Servers: 5,400+ | Countries: 60+ | American Servers: 1,970+ in 15+ Cities | Trustpilot Rating: 4.5 | Simultaneous Connections: 6
NordVPN is a well-recognized VPN service that was established in Panama a decade ago. With 5,200+ servers in 60+ countries among which 1,970+ servers are situated in 15+ American cities. It smoothly bypasses geo-restrictions on HBO Max by enabling you to connect with a NordVPN USA server!
We even tested the #3097 server for analyzing the performance and speed test of this VPN to unblock HBO Max. To our surprise, we received blazing fast download speeds of 89.97Mbps and 86.51Mbps upload speeds on a 100Mbps connection. NordVPN comprises a list of great features including AES-256-bit encryption, trusted server technology, DNS leak protection, and a built-in kill switch.
You can connect up to six devices simultaneously on a single subscription, thus sharing your VPN account with friends and family is now easy and convenient with the help of a NordVPN. Go check out the NordVPN seven-day free trial available for Android, iOS, and macOS.
Verdict: For unblocking geo-restricted content on services like HBO Max, NordVPN provides a list of servers that employ obfuscation. It also provides “Threat Protection” to save you from irritating advertisements and pop-ups while browsing or streaming!
NordVPN HBO Max Testing: Working Servers
NordVPN’s servers located in the United States result in an effective unblock of HBO Max. Recommended choices: #3097, #2497, #3288, #3325.
- 6 Simultaneous Connections
- Audited by PwC Switzerland
- 30-Day Refund Guarantee
- Headquartered in Panama
- 5,000+ Servers in 60+ Countries
- Split Tunneling/Network Kill Switch
- Downtime issues on some servers
How Did We Select the Best HBO Max VPN?
When it comes to picking up the best VPN for HBO Max, we often get confused as VPNs differ from each other in terms of performance, speed, efficiency, and servers. And we want to choose the best servers that can securely grant you access to the HBO Max platform. Based on the following factors, we were able to select the best VPN to view HBO Max uninterruptedly.
- Bypassing geo-restrictions: A VPN is ideally used for the purpose of unlocking region-blocked streaming services such as HBO Max, Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and other similar platforms.
- Good Performance: A VPN is not considered a good VPN unless it provides high-speed connectivity, reliability, and robust servers.
- Outstanding accessibility. It’s recommended to use a VPN that has a large server network and can access a wide range of international services with its top-tier servers that work across the globe.
- Fully featured apps. A fully-featured VPN service app that comes packed with features such as kill-switch, Smart DNS, No-log policy, split tunneling, obfuscation, P2P compatibility, malware protection, ad blocking, and any other useful features make the VPN worth buying.
- High-resolution 4K Streaming: The VPN should offer a crisp 3,840×2,160 high-resolution video playback on HBO Max with no quality loss.
- VPN Compatible with All Devices: Technology is evolving and every day you’ll find a new device being launched in the market. Therefore, it’s essential for a VPN to expand its service across various operating systems and devices, including Android, iOS, Windows, Mac OS, Smart TVs, Apple TV, etc.
- Simultaneous Connections: Today’s users demand more! Yes, a VPN must allow a minimum of five connections at once for quick connectivity and account sharing.
- Strong Security & Privacy: VPNs that implement strong privacy policies and security features can keep your online data protected from being exposed on the internet. The security features include testing for IP, DNS, and WebRTC leaks – the encryption method used must be of a high standard.
VPNs that Don’t Unblock HBO Max
Our team tested more than 50 VPNs that claim to instantly unlock HBO Max anywhere in the world. As such, we also discovered some VPNs that fail to bypass HBO Max geo-restrictions. The following is the list of VPNs that seems to be ineffective at unlocking HBO Max according to our test and should be avoided:
- Opera VPN
- Turbo VPN
- Tunnelbear
- PureVPN
- CactusVPN
- Windscribe
- Hola
- VyprVPN
- Zenmate
- Hide.me
- Avast VPN
- Buffered
How Much Does HBO Max Cost
HBO Max offers monthly packages based on whether you want to stream with ads or no ads.
Subscriptions Available | With Ads (USD) | Without Ads (USD) |
---|---|---|
HBO Max per month | $9.99/ month | $99.99/year |
HBO Max per year | $14.99/mo (save 16%) | $149.99/yr (save 16%) |
How to Sign Up for HBO Max with a VPN
Signing up for HBO Max is simple and easy when you select either of the two methods mentioned below to pay HBO Max subscription fees:
Sign Up with HBO Max via a Gift Card
- Subscribe to a premium VPN service like ExpressVPN.
- Connect to a VPN server located in the United States.
- Change the location of your Google Play or Apple App store to the USA.
- Visit the MyGiftCardSupply website and purchase a Google Play or iTunes Gift Card.
- Proceed to the checkout page and fill up the billing details to complete the process.
- Go to your email address and copy the gift card code from your inbox.
- Download the HBO Max application and add money to your account.
- Purchase a suitable subscription and enjoy streaming on HBO Max!
Sign Up with HBO Max via a Credit Card
- Get a subscription to a premium VPN service like ExpressVPN.
- Connect to a USA server from the list of servers.
- Visit the HBO Max website and sign up for an account.
- Enter your credit card details, including the ZIP code, by following the instructions.
- You can try the gift card method listed above in case your card doesn’t have a valid 5-digit US ZIP code printed on the back.
Best VPN for HBO Max: FAQs
When it comes to finding and selecting the best VPN for HBO Max, you may come across some concerns. Below we answer some of the most frequently asked questions:
Yes, it’s possible to stream HBO Max for free but only for a specific time. Currently, there’s no free trial available when you signup for HBO Max directly through their website. However, if you connect Hulu with the HBO Max add-on, then you’ll receive a 7-day free trial. Try a VPN with a USA server to sign up for Hulu + HBO Max and take advantage of the 30-day money-back guarantee to get a refund after your free trial ends. If you encounter any problem while signing up for Hulu due to the unavailability of a US billing address, then opt for an online gift card method. This way you’ll be able to get a 30-day free trial of Hulu along with HBO Max with just a single subscription. Note: Cancel your free trial before it ends, or else your ongoing subscription will be auto-renewed.
Generally, when you stream any video on HBO Max its quality is mostly determined by the download speed. That said, you’ll require a maximum of 25 Mbps to watch 4K videos, but you can easily watch HD videos with 5 Mbps. It’s obvious that your connection will slow down because of the VPN. Service providers are trying their best to make the VPN service more efficient. This means your video quality will not be affected unless your base speed is very low.
No, we don’t recommend a free VPN to unblock HBO Max outside the USA as their servers are insufficient to provide high-speed, security, and buffering privacy. However, it’s better to opt for a premium provider like ExpressVPN.
Yes, it is legal to stream HBO Max from a place where the service is currently unavailable. If you’re able to stream videos on HBO Max this means that your IP address hasn’t been detected. Though it’s against HBO Max’s terms and conditions to use a VPN or any other technology that masks your location. But still, you can legally stream the content on this platform if you’re an HBO subscriber as HBO Max does not shut down their paid subscribers account for using a VPN.
Users of HBO Max can register up to 5 different profiles on a single subscription. However, only three of those profiles are accessible simultaneously. This means that only three of your family members or friends can enjoy watching different shows at the same time.
HBO max will be available in New Zealand in 2024. If you want to access their content before then, you can get an HBO Max VPN like ExpressVPN. Login to the VPN, connect to a US server and you will be able to watch HBO Max in New Zealand.
Final Words
This concludes our best HBO Max VPN recommendation and setup guide. Nevertheless, if you face any problems, feel free to drop a comment below with questions or requests for clarification, and a member of Streamints will get back to you as soon as possible.