Kaida Rylan Updated on Apr 9, 2025
Table of Contents
TOP VPN
Maintain Your Online Privacy with Falcon VPN
Try NowFinding a VPN to stream Hotstar can be tricky. Many free VPNs lack the necessary features, and even some premium options struggle to provide reliable access. However, if you're wondering how to watch Hotstar in the USA or from other locations, we've got you covered.
My team and I tested over 30 free VPNs to find the best ones for streaming Hotstar. While free VPNs can have limitations like data caps and fewer servers, we identified a few that reliably work with Hotstar, delivering stable HD streams.
If you're looking for top-tier performance, ExpressVPN is an excellent choice. While it’s not completely free, it offers a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can test all its premium features without commitment. Compared to free options, ExpressVPN stands out with its ultra-fast speeds, no data limits, and virtual Indian servers that allow secure access to Hotstar’s content library.
Features to Consider for Hotstar VPN Free Options：The VPNs on our list come with no-logging policies, ensuring your privacy. However, always use your VPN ethically and avoid copyright violations. Any misuse is your responsibility.
Best for: Reliable Hotstar streaming in HD, with no speed or data limits.
Key Features:
Server Network: 3,000 servers in 105 countries, including virtual Indian servers.
Data Usage: Unlimited, ideal for load-free binge sessions.
Compatibility: Works with Netflix, Disney+, Hotstar, and more.
Unique Feature: Proprietary Lightway protocol for optimized speed and battery efficiency during mobile streaming.
During testing, streaming Hotstar with ExpressVPN was smooth and buffer-free, even for live broadcasts like Star Sports 1. The virtual Indian servers provided consistent access to Indian content. While not entirely free, users can take advantage of the generous 30-day money-back guarantee to try it without risk.
Best for: Unlimited simultaneous connections and privacy features.
Key Features:
Server Network: 38 available locations through the mobile app (limited options on desktop).
Data Usage: 500MB/month (1GB if you register via email).
Compatibility: Supports platforms like Netflix and Hotstar (UK, Singapore regions only).
Note: Not suitable for Indian Hotstar, as servers for India are unavailable.
Best for: Unlimited data for uninterrupted streaming on Hotstar UK and other regions.
Key Features:
Server Network: Eight free server locations, including the UK.
Data Usage: Unlimited (with random server locations) or 10GB/month if you choose specific servers.
Compatibility: Streams Hotstar in standard definition on its free plan.
Additional Features: Advanced security protocols like IKEv2 and dynamic port forwarding.
Pro Tip: If content isn’t loading, try switching protocols like WireGuard or SSTP to enhance connection stability.
Hotspot Shield stands out for its proprietary Hydra protocol, which balances speed and security for optimal Hotstar streaming on restricted networks, like schools or workplaces.
Key Features:
Unlimited Data: Perfect for binge-watching your favorite shows or movies.
Free Plan: Access servers in the UK and Singapore at no cost.
Automatic WiFi Protection: Secures connections on public WiFi networks.
Leak Protection: Keeps your real location and data private from trackers or hackers.
During our tests with Hotspot Shield, we found its Hydra protocol faster and more reliable for Hotstar streaming compared to protocols like IKEv2 and WireGuard. However, while the free plan offers excellent benefits, it only supports Hotstar’s Singapore library. For access to Indian servers, upgrading to the premium plan is necessary. Note that the free version is ad-supported, which may interrupt your viewing experience occasionally.
Pros:
Speed-optimized Hydra protocol
Unlimited data allowance
Effective torrenting support
Cons:
No free servers in India
Ad-supported, which can be distracting
If you’re looking to watch Hotstar with VPN, Hotspot Shield’s free plan is an excellent starting point.
TunnelBear offers an intuitive, fun-to-use interface with its interactive world map. Simply click a country, and the iconic cartoon bear will tunnel your traffic through the server of your choice.
Key Features:
47 Free Server Locations: Includes a free Indian server, ideal for streaming regional Hotstar content.
User-Friendly Design: A beginner-friendly app with a seamless setup process.
Unlimited Connections: Connect all your devices simultaneously under the free plan.
While streaming Hotstar India during our tests, TunnelBear proved reliable, though we occasionally had to switch servers. The biggest drawback of this VPN is its 2GB monthly data limit, which is restrictive for longer streaming sessions. It also doesn’t reliably work with Hotstar UK or Singapore libraries under the free plan.
Pros:
Free Indian server for Hotstar access
Simple and beginner-focused app interface
Cons:
Limited to 2GB of data per month
Can struggle to connect with non-Indian Hotstar libraries
We rigorously tested each VPN’s ability to stream Hotstar by evaluating criteria like speed, library access, and reliability. The best free VPNs for Hotstar not only provided strong encryption but also ensured seamless streaming without compromising user data.
Expert Tip: While free VPNs can be a great way to watch Hotstar in the USA, keep in mind that many free options compromise on security or show excessive ads. Services like Hotspot Shield and TunnelBear mitigate some of these issues, but for ultimate safety, consider a paid VPN with a no-logs policy and faster speeds.
Some free VPNs can jeopardize your online safety. Here’s a quick look at a few you should steer clear of while streaming free Hotstar with VPNs:
Hola VPN: Known for its lack of encryption, leaving users vulnerable.
Touch VPN: Frequently logs user information, including location details.
LinkVPN: Shares your data with affiliates, breaching user privacy.
Download a VPN like ExpressVPN or Hotspot Shield for secure and speedy access.
Connect to a server (Indian, Singapore, or your desired location).
Start Streaming on Hotstar without restrictions.
Streaming Hotstar with VPN has never been easier. With these best free VPNs for Hotstar, you can enjoy your favorite shows with improved security and performance. Whether you choose Hotspot Shield’s speed-optimized approach or the fun, easy-to-use TunnelBear, these tools ensure you stay connected to exceptional content wherever you are.
Not exactly. Hotstar doesn’t technically provide free content anymore. While Hotstar India once offered select movies and shows with ads, as of April 2024, you’ll only find highlights of past sporting events and trailers for free. To access anything beyond that, you’ll need a subscription. However, you might score a free Hotstar plan bundled with services from Indian providers like Tata, Airtel, or Jio. That being said, each VPN on our list of Best Free VPNs for Hotstar can help you access the platform safely, no matter where you are.
Aside from India, you can stream Hotstar in Canada, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, and the UK. Hotstar is owned by The Walt Disney Company, so it’s called Disney+ Hotstar in many regions and includes select Disney+ content.
However, Hotstar is not available in the USA. Instead, Disney distributes its content across Hulu, Disney+, and Max, which you can access with the Disney Bundle. Additionally, streaming Hotstar in countries like Pakistan and the UAE isn’t possible due to local censorship laws. A reliable free VPN can make Hotstar available wherever you are.
If your free VPN isn’t connecting properly to Hotstar, try these troubleshooting steps:
Switch servers: Sometimes, the server IP you’re using gets blocked by Hotstar, leading to endless loading screens. Try connecting to a different server.
Clear browser cookies: Stored cookies can create conflicts when using a VPN. Delete them or open Hotstar in incognito mode for a smoother experience.
Finding the best free VPN for Hotstar that works reliably can make all the difference!
Using a VPN to maintain online privacy and safely access content is legal in most countries. However, laws vary, and places like China or the UAE restrict VPN usage entirely. Check your local guidelines before using a VPN to stream Hotstar.
Avira Phantom VPN is one of the best free options for Hotstar, offering servers in regions where Hotstar operates. However, it comes with some limitations, including 1GB of monthly data and location changes restricted to its mobile app. If you only want to stream for a few hours, Avira works fine. For a better experience, a low-cost premium VPN ensures seamless access to Hotstar with unlimited data and higher reliability.
If you’ve tested the free VPN options and find they don’t meet your needs, consider upgrading to ExpressVPN for ultimate privacy and a smoother streaming experience.
Kaida Rylan is a Junior Writer specializing in VPN reviews and online security. Passionate about technology and digital privacy, Kaida has been researching and testing VPNs to provide readers with honest, in-depth insights. Kaida holds a Master’s Degree in Communications and a Bachelor’s in Media Studies. Additionally, they completed a cybersecurity certification program and gained experience working at a tech startup. Before joining the VPN industry, Kaida worked as a content creator, tech writer, and digital marketing specialist. In their free time, they enjoy exploring new cybersecurity tools and staying up to date with the latest tech trends.