Best VPNs for HBO Max in 2022

​Finding the best VPN for HBO Max can open up boundless streaming capabilities and unblock geo-restricted content from any country. Since this popular streaming platform is only available in specific regions, like the US, you’ll need to use a VPN to watch HBO Max from anywhere.

While there are numerous VPN products currently available on the market, unfortunately, not all of them are capable of bypassing region-based restrictions. So the big question is – how to find the one that actually works with HBO Max?

To help you out, we’ve tested at least a dozen of different VPN services in terms of their unblocking capabilities, speeds, and compatibility with streaming devices. So check out our list of best VPNs for HBO Max:

1. NordVPN – overall the best HBO Max VPN in 2022
2. Surfshark – top VPN for HBO Max with unlimited connections
3. PureVPN – excellent streaming VPN to unblock HBO Max
4. Atlas VPN – budget-friendly HBO Max VPN
5. IPVanish – solid VPN choice with good speeds

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All of the above-mentioned VPNs are excellent at unblocking HBO Max from any country. If you’ve selected one, but don’t know for sure how to use it when traveling, follow our short guide.

How to watch HBO Max with VPN while traveling

1. Choose a VPN to bypass HBO Max geo-restrictions. We recommend NordVPN, now 68% OFF!
2. Install and set up the VPN service on your device.
3. Log in and connect to an American server.
4. Go to the HBO Max website and register or log into your account.
5. Grab the popcorn and enjoy HBO Max.

Why do you need a VPN for HBO Max?

HBO Max has geo-restrictions in place, meaning you need a VPN for HBO Max if you want to access the streaming service outside the regions it’s available in. HBO Max currently works in the US and a few Caribbean, Latin, and European countries. And although it's expanding to other countries, some huge markets (like the UK, France, or Germany) still won’t be able to access HBO Max without using one of the best VPN services.

If HBO Max is not available in your location, you’ll get the following error message: "Sorry, HBO MAX isn’t available in your region yet." However, you can get around geo-blocks by using a VPN.

Best VPNs for HBO Max in 2022

It's a shame that at the moment, HBO Max is only available in a select number of countries. That is, unless you're using a VPN service.

It still might not be as easy as it sounds. All of this is further complicated by the fact that not all VPNs handle streaming services. You can pay the subscription price and find out that you still can't access the site.

Luckily for you, I've hand-picked the best VPNs that are confirmed to work with HBO Max.

1. NordVPN – overall best VPN for HBO Max

Watch HBO Max with NordVPN now

NordVPN is the best VPN for HBO Max since it offers blazing-fast speeds, useful streaming features, and many servers in required locations. We effortlessly unblocked HBO Max when we connected to a server in New York and experienced no buffering at all.

Security and performance: to deliver the speedy services, NordVPN offers an upgraded version of the well-known WireGuard tunneling protocol, known as the NordLynx. Additionally, it not only ensures that you get an uninterrupted HBO streaming session, but also provides strong security to keep your data private.

Unblocking capabilities: this provider works flawlessly with HBO Max, that’s for sure. But what’s even better is that it also unblocks many other streaming platforms, like Netflix, Hulu, Disney Plus, and others. And considering there’s over 5500 servers in 59 countries, you’ll have plenty of options to access global content libraries.

Streaming features: NordVPN offers the SmartPlay feature – with it, you’ll be able to watch HBO Max even on devices that don’t support VPN connections. Plus, it also has a dedicated app for Amazon Fire TV and can be installed on other streaming gadgets.

Price: you can get a NordVPN subscription starting from only $2.99/month for 6 devices and each plan includes a 30-day money-back guarantee. However, if you want to try it first, you can claim NordVPN’s free 7-day trial right away.

Find out more about this provider in our full NordVPN review.

2. Surfshark – top-class HBO Max VPN for unlimited devices

Watch HBO Max with Surfshark

Surfshark is another excellent VPN choice for HBO Max, especially since it gives unlimited simultaneous connections. The first American server we connected unblocked HBO Max instantly and we watched movies on multiple devices with a single account.

Security and performance: the speeds of this VPN didn’t disappoint us either. Thanks to the WireGuard protocol, there were no lags when watching HBO Max. There are also more tunneling protocols, including OpenVPN (UDP and TCP) and IKEv2, but we suggest using WireGuard for strong security and speeds.

Unblocking capabilities: you can not only unblock HBO Max from anywhere, but also enjoy other streaming content since Surfshark works with Hulu + Live TV, and Netflix as well, so you won't ever run out of things to watch. And with over 3200 servers in 100 countries, you’ll be able to access loads of different streaming libraries.

Streaming features: Aside from that, the provider offers the SmartDNS feature, meaning you’ll be able to watch HBO Max on whatever device you want to. That is, even if it doesn’t support VPN connections, like the PlayStation.

Price: if you decide to invest in Surfshark, all subscriptions include a 30-day money-back guarantee and prices are as low as $2.05/month for unlimited devices. Also, there’s an option to test how the service works with HBO Max with a free 7-day trial before committing to a premium plan.

Learn more about this provider in our full Surfshark VPN review.

3. PureVPN – top VPN for HBO Max with a many servers

Watch HBO Max with PureVPN

PureVPN easily bypassed the regional restrictions of HBO Max as well. In fact, its truly massive server fleet allowed us to find the most suitable one for a buffer-free streaming session. And that’s something you’d expect from one of the best VPNs for HBO Max.

Security and performance: this provider also relies on the WireGuard tunneling protocol to ensure fast speeds and robust security. As a result, we didn’t experience any lags when watching all the popular movies and TV shows.

Unblocking capabilities: apart from giving access to HBO Max, PureVPN unblocks other streaming websites as well. That includes Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, and DAZN. Plus, the massive network of more than 6500 servers in 78 countries will let you find the best server for streaming no matter where you live.

Streaming features: even without the Smart DNS feature, this VPN covers your streaming needs with dedicated apps for Android TVs, Fire TV, and other streaming devices. Also it offers a Proxy Control feature which can give you better speeds for streaming HBO Max with an unencrypted connection. But beware that it significantly lowers your level of security.

Price: PureVPN prices are truly affordable, starting from $1.41/month for 10 devices. And the best part – you can make use of the service’s 31-day money-back guarantee before committing to a long-term subscription plan.

Check out our full PureVPN review for more information.

4. Atlas VPN – great VPN with budget-friendly subscriptions

Visit Atlas VPN

Atlas VPN is also among the best options for HBO Max. It has affordable subscription plans that you can get to enjoy streaming the most popular content without emptying your wallet.

Security and performance: this provider, like many other top-class VPNs, supports the WireGuard tunneling protocol. During our test, we had no issues accessing HBO Max and the speeds were truly solid. Since this is a modern protocol, it also ensures strong security at the same time.

Unblocking capabilities: Atlas VPN unblocks HBO Max, but on top of that, it also works with Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and several other services. As for servers, the selection is relatively limited – 750 servers in 37 countries – nevertheless, you can still find the one that’s great for streaming.

Streaming features: despite the fact that this VPN doesn’t have the Smart DNS feature, it still ensures that you could enjoy streaming HBO Max with your family and friends – it’s compatible with Android TVs and Amazon Fire TV devices. Additionally, you get streaming-optimized servers for a buffer-free experience.

Price: Atlas VPN has budget-friendly subscription plans, starting from only $1.64/month for unlimited devices. Each plan includes a 30-day money-back guarantee and what’s even better – there’s a completely free version that you can use to try out the services beforehand.

Read more about this provider in our full Atlas VPN review.

5. IPVanish – good VPN that works with streaming boxes

Visit IPVanish

IPVanish is a solid choice for HBO streaming. It unblocked the streaming platform for us from the first try and what’s even better – you can set it up on streaming boxes to have cozy movie sessions with your closest ones.

Security and performance: ​​with fast and secure WireGuard tunneling protocol, IPVanish provides good speeds so you can be sure that your movies don’t get stuck on loading. When testing this VPN, we didn’t encounter any buffering issues either.

Unblocking capabilities: aside from unblocking HBO Max, it can also access BBC iPlayer and YouTube hassle-free. Regarding its servers, there’s a great selection of 2000 servers in 50 locations, letting you find the most optimal ones for streaming.

Streaming features: when it comes to additional attributes, this VPN offers support for most popular streaming devices, including Kodi box, Amazon Fire TV Stick, and Roku. This way, you can unblock and stream HBO Max when with friends and family.

Price: IPVanish costs from $3.19/month for unlimited devices. Just keep in mind that if you want an option of a full refund, pick annual subscription plans as they include a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Learn more about this VPN in our detailed IPVanish review.

6. PrivateVPN – solid VPN for unblocking HBO Max

Visit PrivateVPN

Another VPN service that made the HBO Max error message disappear on the first try is PrivateVPN. Even though it has a smaller server fleet than most providers, it’s a solid choice for unblocking HBO Max.

Security and performance: PrivateVPN doesn’t have WireGuard, but it still includes a variety of tunneling protocols, helping to ensure solid speeds. This includes OpenVPN (UDP and TCP variants), PPTP, and L2TP/IPSec. For the best HBO streaming speeds we recommend OpenVPN UDP and as for security – the TCP variant.

Unblocking capabilities: we easily unblocked HBO Max with PrivateVPN. However, it also works with Netflix, YouTube, BBC iPlayer, and even DAZN. While its server fleet isn’t the widest, with over 200 servers in 63 countries, there’s enough to access your favorite platforms.

Streaming features: while this VPN can’t brag about an extensive list of additional features, it does support streaming devices – Android TVs and Amazon Fire TV gadgets. Also, you can use it on up to 10 devices at the same time and enjoy HBO content with your family members.

Price: If you want to test PrivateVPN out yourself, there’s a free 7-day trial on top of a 30-day money-back guarantee you can make use of. And if all goes well and you decide to purchase the plan, the subscription price starts at $2.00/month.

Find more details about this provider in our full PrivateVPN review.

Comparison of the best VPNs for HBO Max

	NordVPN	Surfshark	PureVPN	AtlasVPN	IPVanish	PrivateVPN
Brand
Review	NordVPN review	Surfshark VPN review	PureVPN review	Atlas VPN review	IPVanish review	PrivateVPN review
Rating	4.9 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★	4.7 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★	4.4 ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆	4.3 ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆	4.6 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★	4.5 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Unblocks HBO Max	✅, Yes	✅, Yes	✅, Yes	✅, Yes	✅, Yes	✅, Yes
Servers	5500+ servers in 59 countries	3200+ servers in 100 countries	6500+ servers in 78 countries	750+ servers in 37 countries	2000+ servers in 50 countries	200+ servers in 63 countries
Supports WireGuard	✅, a modern variation known as NordLynx	✅, Yes	✅, Yes	✅, Yes	✅, Yes	❌, No
Smart DNS	✅, Yes	✅, Yes	❌, No	❌, No	❌, No	❌, No
Simultaneous connections	6	Unlimited	10	Unlimited	Unlimited	10
Other streaming	Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and more	Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and more	Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, DAZN	Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube	Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube	Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Video, and more
Compatibility	Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox	Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox	Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS	Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Android TV, Amazon Fire Stick	Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS	Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS
Price (lowest price per month)	2.99/month	2.05/month	1.41/month	1.64/month	3.19/month	2.00/month

Winner

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How we tested and ranked the best VPNs for HBO Max

There are two main points to consider when picking a HBO Max VPN – whether it unblocks the streaming service and whether it’s good for streaming overall. Here are the main criteria we took into into consideration when ranking these VPNs:

• Speed. Although it’s great to be able to watch content from all around the world, it’s not so neat when it’s constantly buffering. We used our speed test tool to find the fastest VPNs that don’t make you sit in front of a frozen screen.
• Useful features. Some providers offer the SmartDNS feature, letting you unblock geo-restricted content without installing a VPN on those devices. And if you need a VPN for streaming only, split tunneling is what you can make use of. With that in mind, we have carefully selected VPNs that can effortlessly unblock geo-restricted HBO Max.
• Server coverage. A vast server fleet means that no matter where you’re located, you’ll be able to find servers near you. We made sure the providers we offer have plenty of options. This lets you ensure the fastest possible speeds.
• Simultaneous connections. If you want to watch HBO Max on a few of your devices or share it with your family members, it’s important that the VPN offers multiple or unlimited device connections.
• Other streaming options. Getting a VPN service simply for watching HBO Max is nice, but it’s even nicer if you have more streaming platform options. We looked for VPNs that can also help you change Netflix region, access Hulu, or any other service you may need.
• Price. Just because you’re expecting first-class quality, doesn’t mean you have to pay lots of money. We made sure that the VPN services we offer are worth every penny.

What makes the best VPN for HBO Max?

With so many streaming VPNs available on the market, it might be hard to identify the key aspects that make a VPN the best one for HBO Max. Here’s what you should look for if you want to get a seamless streaming experience on this specific platform:

• Many servers in HBO-allowed locations. Since this media service is geo-restricted, the most suitable VPN should have a wide selection of servers in locations where HBO Max is available – including the US, a few Caribbean, Latin, and European countries. This way you can hide your true location and watch HBO content from anywhere in the world.
• Fast speeds. Great streaming experience requires exceptionally fast speeds that can be achieved only with modern tunneling protocols. If you want to watch HBO Max without buffering, look for fast VPNs that support WireGuard.
• Streaming features. If you want to stream HBO Max content together with your family and friends, you should check whether the provider offers a Smart DNS feature. It allows using the service on Smart TVs and gaming consoles. Also, make sure that the VPN supports multiple simultaneous connections, so that you could use it on as many devices as you need.
• Compatibility. Another key indicator of the best VPN for HBO Max is its ability to not only support all popular operating systems (Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android), but also streaming devices. Look for a provider that offers dedicated apps for Fire TV, Android TV, Kodi, and other gadgets.
• Unblocking capabilities. It’s crystal clear that a VPN should unblock HBO Max without any troubles. However, if you’re a die-hard movie enthusiast, it’s good if the provider can give access to other streaming platforms in case some new film releases are available elsewhere. This way you could also watch American Netflix, Disney Plus, Hulu, and more.

Can I unblock HBO Max with a free VPN?

No, there’s a very low chance that a free VPN could unblock HBO Max. That is mostly because free VPNs usually have a very limited server fleet which is naturally used by numerous users at the same time. Consequently, any streaming service can easily detect VPN-related activity and block the IP address.

Additionally, when using an unreliable free VPN service, you’re also risking your online security. As a way of income, some free VPNs can even sell their users’ data to third parties. Or, if the provider is not trustworthy, the service may even be infiltrated with malware.

Frankly, we can suggest reliable and effective alternatives for bypassing HBO Max geo-restrictions and staying protected online:

• NordVPN – with this HBO Max VPN, you can expect to unblock any major streaming platform and watch videos in full HD. To test it yourself, you can benefit from its 30-day money-back guarantee and boost it with a free NordVPN 7-day trial on your Android or iOS.
• Surfshark – watch HBO Max on unlimited devices simultaneously with Surfshark’s 30-day money-back guarantee or hop on Surfshark’s free trial that’s available for macOS, iOS, and Android users.
• PureVPN – another excellent VPN for bypassing HBO Max geo-restrictions with an extended 31-day money-back guarantee that you can combine with a free 7-day trial. Here, you get one of the best free trials a VPN can offer.

How to watch HBO Max on your device

You can use a VPN to unlock HBO Max on any device. So you and your family can sit down in front of HBO’s latest blockbuster by connecting it to your smart TV. Or you can keep up with all your favorite shows while you’re traveling by watching them on your smartphone.

Here are some of our tutorials on how to change HBO Max region on different devices:

• Watch HBO Max on Windows or macOS
• Watch HBO Max on Android or iOS
• Watch HBO Max on Smart TV
• Watch HBO Max on streaming devices

Without further ado, let’s take a closer look at how you can watch HBO Max on different devices and operating systems.

HBO Max on PC (Windows, macOS)

Using a VPN to watch HBO on your desktop is very simple. It can be done in minutes and will allow you to remove the geo-restrictions quickly and securely. You can do this on Chrome OS, macOS, or Windows PC.

1. Download, install, and set up your chosen VPN. Our top pick for iPhone devices is NordVPN, now 68%% OFF.

2. Launch the app and connect to an American server.

3. Create or log into your HBO Max account and enjoy watching all HBO has to offer.

HBO Max on Mobile (Android, iOS)

If you’re traveling and don’t have access to a PC or a TV, you can still watch HBO content on your iPhone or Android phone. Apps for all the major VPNs, like NordVPN, are available on the Google Play Store and Apple’s App Store. If you'd encounter any other issues bypassing the geo-restrictions, take a look at our detailed guide on how to change your country in Google Play Store.

Here’s our step-by-step guide for accessing HBO Max on mobile devices:

1. Download and install your chosen VPN. We recommend NordVPN (now 68% OFF).
2. Connect to a server in the US to get an American IP address.
3. Search and install the HBO Max app.
4. Create or log into your HBO Max account.

Watch HBO Max on your mobile device

HBO Max on Smart TV

You can watch HBO and HBO Max on your smart TV with a VPN. This works on Apple TV, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Samsung TV. Once you have chosen a VPN app for your smart TV, all you need to do is:

1. Sign up for a VPN subscription. We recommend NordVPN – now for 68% OFF!
2. Find the VPN on the Google Play Store and install it.
3. Log into your account and connect to an American server.
4. Create or log into your HBO Max account and enjoy!

Alternatively, you can install a VPN onto your router. This will let you watch HBO on all your connected devices, including games consoles, like PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One.

HBO Max on streaming devices

If you’re a Fire TV Stick user, changing the HBO Max region on your device is an effortless task. All you have to do is:

1. Choose a VPN suitable for streaming. Our top recommendation is NordVPN, which is now 68% OFF!
2. Connect to a server in the United States.
3. Install the HBO Max app from the app store.
4. Create or log into your HBO Max account.

Watch HBO Max on streaming devices

HBO Max not working with a VPN?

Occasionally, you might encounter an issue when connecting to HBO, even if you are using a VPN. If this has happens to you, here’s what you can try:

1. Connect to a different server in the same location. While one server might not work with HBO Max, try switching to others.
2. For PlayStation users, if you get the 03-37-215 error, just restart your console. It solves the problem for most users.
3. If you encounter any other problems, we advise deleting cookies, clearing cache, and restarting the machine.
4. It might be that you just have a bad VPN. You can try switching to a reputable VPN provider, such as NordVPN or Surfshark.

And if all else fails, you should contact your VPN’s customer support team.

Watch HBO Max with NordVPN

You can easily unblock HBO Max and watch exclusive content with NordVPN. It has a massive server fleet, fast speeds, and intuitive apps for a buffer-free streaming experience.

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4.9 /5

• 100% reliable VPN for streaming
• 5500+ servers around the world
• 7-day free trial & 30-day money-back guarantee

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How to watch HBO while traveling

At the moment, HBO and HBO Max are only available in the US, Latin, Caribbean, and some European countries. This is because all countries and broadcasters have to abide by airing contracts and distribution rights.

Luckily, there are ways to access HBO from anywhere in the world. This even includes countries like Canada, the UK, and Australia that don't have any official presence.

Here are the best ways to access HBO Max from anywhere in the world:

Watch HBO Max from anywhere

What can I watch on HBO Max?

In 2020, HBO merged HBO Go and HBO Now to create its new streaming service – HBO Max. This paid-for app gives you access to all of HBO’s content. HBO Max has a huge range of fantastic movies and shows.

Here’s some content you can expect to watch:

Watch HBO Max with NordVPN

Conclusion

Best VPNs for HBO Max can help you easily bypass geo-restrictions and unblock this popular streaming platform when abroad. Our top choice for this is NordVPN which offers excellent speeds, works with streaming devices, and has a massive server fleet. On top of that, you get strong security features to keep your private data safe.

Have you tried using a VPN to unblock HBO Max? Share your experience and insights in the comments below!

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