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Are you wondering how to enjoy German TV in USA? Due to regional restrictions, German TV channels like ZDF, ARD Dritte, and ARD Das Erste are inaccessible outside Germany.

These channels offer a rich array of content, from news and thrilling dramas to exciting sports events. However, with the help of a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN , you can effortlessly unlock and enjoy these channels in the USA.

German TV networks are known for their high-quality programming, featuring shows like “Dear Child,” “The Bride,” and “Spirit of Winter.” Unfortunately, broadcasting restrictions mean these channels and several other German streaming services are only available within Germany’s borders.

But don’t worry! A trustworthy VPN service is your key to bypass these limitations and access the German TV content you love.

If you’re keen to learn more about watching German TV in USA, we’ve provided detailed information below to guide you through this process.


Easy Steps: How to watch German TV in USA?

Here’s how to get German TV in USA:

  1. Opt for a VPN that offers numerous servers in Germany; one excellent choice is ExpressVPN.
  2. Download and install the software onto your device seamlessly.
  3. Afterward, connect with one of the recommended servers in Germany, such as Frankfurt!
  4. Visit either the website or app of your desired German TV channel, like ProSieben or TVNow.de.
  5. Sign into your existing account or create a new one if necessary to stream German TV in USA without any hassle!
Watch German TV in USA with ExpressVPN 30-day money-back guarantee

Why Do You Need a VPN to Watch German TV in USA?

A VPN is required to watch German TV in USA because of licensing agreements, copyright laws, and broadcasting rights. This means that only individuals located within Germany can enjoy German TV channels.

Therefore, anytime you try to watch German TV in USA without a VPN, an error message notification will appear on your screen:

“Leider wird kein videoformat von deinem gerät unterstützt.”

german-tv-geo-restriction-error-in-USA

If you try to access German TV in USA, you’ll face this geo-restriction error.

To overcome this obstacle and gain access to restricted content from German TV USA, it is necessary for you to utilize the best VPN service. A highly recommended option like ExpressVPN allows you to effectively conceal your online identity by providing you with a German IP address.

By doing so, not only can you bypass geographic limitations but also protect your device from potential online threats or hacking incidents as well as unblock exclusive country-specific or regional content available on different free German TV channels in the US.


Best VPN to Watch German TV in USA – Detailed Analysis

Here, we provide an in-depth review of the top VPNs for streaming German TV in the USA, focusing on their speed, reliability, server availability, and ease of use.

Our rigorous testing criteria ensure you get the most efficient and secure VPN experience, enabling uninterrupted access to popular German channels and streaming services.

1. ExpressVPN – Best VPN to watch German TV in USA

ExpressVPN-in-USA

Key Features:

ExpressVPN stands out as the premier choice for watching German TV in USA, thanks to its exceptional speed, expansive server network, and robust unblocking capabilities. It’s the go-to VPN for accessing popular German channels like ZDF, ARD Dritte, and ARD Das Erste, ensuring you don’t miss out on top shows like “Dear Child” and “The Bride.”

It has a sizable server network, with more than 3000 servers in 105+ nations, including 2 German cities. We unblocked Maxdome with ExpressVPN connected to the Frankfurt-1 server. ExpressVPN is also the best VPN for ZDFmediathek.

watch-german-tv-in-usa-with-expressvpn

Unblocking German TV was a piece of cake using ExpressVPN’s efficient servers.

Recommended server: Frankfurt -1

This server not only provides access to German TV but also enables seamless streaming of other geo-restricted platforms in the USA.

ExpressVPN also helps unblock several streaming websites like Netflix, HBO Max, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and many more. In fact, we had a pleasant time streaming FIFA World Cup on BBC iPlayer with ExpressVPN.

We also tested ExpressVPN’s speed, and the outcomes are as follows: ExpressVPN can offer you incredible speeds of 89.38 Mbps for downloading and 84.66 Mbps for uploading on a 100 Mbps server. 

Expressvpn-speed-test-on-100-mbps-in-USA

This speed is enough to stream in high resolution.

Additionally, ExpressVPN has a MediaStreamer feature that makes it simple to get around geo-restricted laws. Security is a paramount concern, and ExpressVPN addresses this with features like AES 256-bit encryption, 4096-bit DHE-RSA keys, SHA512 hash authentication, and the Lightway Protocol. These features not only protect your online activities but also ensure that your streaming experience is safe and private.

Linux, macOS, iOS, Android, Windows-based operating systems, Fire OS, smart TVs, and many other platforms are compatible with ExpressVPN. We installed ExpressVPN on Roku, FireStick, and Kodi devices easily. Moreover, you can connect up to five devices simultaneously using one subscription account.

As stated in the official subscription column of the ExpressVPN website, the rates and security features of the service are its standout characteristics. With ExpressVPN’s free trial, we have streaming Magenta Sports, and it has proven to be a good free VPN for Magenta Sports.

Therefore, it is A win-win deal; the consumers can take advantage of a one-month free trial for only $6.67/mo - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free. For more information, check out our comprehensive ExpressVPN review.

Pros
  • A live chat option is available around the clock
  • Works flawlessly with the majority of German streaming websites
  • It is possible to code data using AES bits
  • Legitimate refund policy for 30 days

Cons
  • ExpressVPN is more expensive when compared to other VPNs

Get ExpressVPN for German TV 30-day money-back guarantee

2. Surfshark – Budget-friendly VPN for German TV in USA

Surfshark-in-USA

Key Features:

Surfshark is a budget-friendly VPN that offers $2.49/mo - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee as part of its prices and packages, and offers have a 30-day money-back refund policy as their main selling point. This makes Surfshark an attractive option for those looking for an affordable VPN solution to watch German TV in the USA.

It boasts a network of 3200+ servers in 100+ countries, including 2 German locations. You can also use its worldwide server to watch Rai TV and Zattoo in USA.

This server is not just great for German TV but also facilitates access to other geo-restricted streaming platforms in the USA.

surfshark-unblock-german-tv-in-USA

Surfshark offered budget-friendly plans for us to unblock German TV in USA.

Recommended server: Berlin

You may watch content from various streaming services with Surfshark, including HBO Max, Netflix, YouTube TV, and Hulu with Surfshark. In our Surfshark’s speed testing, we observed an upload speed of 83.72 Mbps and a download speed of 88.14 Mbps over a 100 Mbps connection.

Surfshark-speed-test-in-USA

We achieved blazing-fast speed results in USA servers.

You can connect unlimited devices to Surfshark VPN simultaneously (those with subscriptions). Surfshark works with FireStick, Google Chrome, tablets, Apple TV, Fire TV, Firefox, Android, Linux, Xbox series S, PS5, and other devices.

Surfshark prioritizes your online security with features like IKEv4, AES-256 encryption, multi-hop, camouflage mode, and DNS leak protection. These advanced security measures not only safeguard your streaming activities but also maintain your privacy and data security.

Also, a 30-day money-back guarantee protects all your money if you are unhappy with the features. Finding it difficult to work with Surfshark on your device? Contact 24/7 customer support on live chat for any kind of VPN-related troubleshooting.

Surfshark also provides a seven-day free trial for Android, iOS, and Android. Therefore, we consider it the best free VPN for Deezer Deutschland.

To learn more about this affordable VPN, check out our thorough Surfshark review.

Pros
  • Multiple connections are active at once
  • Low to moderately-priced
  • Private and secure connections
  • Data can be encoded using AES-bits

Cons
  • The service provided by the website can occasionally be intermittent
  • Speed is slowed down
  • While streaming, a few hiccups and mistakes could happen

Watch German TV in USA with Surfshark 30-day money-back guarantee

3. NordVPN – Largest Server Network VPN to watch German TV in USA

NordVPN-in-USA

Key Features:

NordVPN has the largest server network VPN consisting of 6000 servers in 61 or more nations. There are more than 240 servers available in Germany, which is plenty to ensure a seamless and wonderful experience with German TV.

This extensive network ensures that users have numerous options for reliable and fast connections. For optimal performance, we recommend the Germany #813 server, which has been tested and proven to provide excellent access to German TV channels.

Because of the extensive network connection that NordVPN offers its users, you will rarely find any lagging or network congestion issues while streaming on a free German TV app. To further check its efficiency, we connected to its Berlin server and could comfortably stream German TV “ZDF” without issues.

nordvpn-unblock-german-tv-in-USA

Thanks to German TV’s huge network server, we could unblock German TV.

Recommended servers: Germany #813

Additionally, utilizing NordVPN servers, you can stream HBO Max TV Now, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and Netflix, as well as German 7TV and ProSieben Germany. In fact, during our testing, it turned out to be the best ProSieben VPN for streamers living in USA.

The speed test image demonstrates that NordVPN speed test results provide this server with upload and download speeds of 79.42 Mbps and 86.49 Mbps, respectively. This speed is adequate and sufficient for buffer-free streaming, allowing for a seamless user experience.

NordVPN-speed-test-in-USA

NordVPN proved to be a true streaming VPN by delivering fast-speed results during our test.

Some streaming devices compatible with NordVPN include iOS, Windows-based computers, macOS, Android, and smart TVs. With its ability to support up to six concurrent connections, you can also use NordVPN on FireStick, Smart TV, and Gaming consoles with other devices simultaneously.

Security is a top priority for NordVPN, which offers AES-256-GCM encryption, a kill switch, double VPN, and IP leak prevention. These features provide robust protection for your online activities, ensuring both your privacy and security while streaming.

NordVPN subscription bundles are priced at $3.99/mo - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free for a friend, and they also come with a 30-day money-back guarantee. You may also opt for NordVPN’s free trial to test its features. Because of its free trial, NordVPN has proven to be a good free VPN for TV Now.

If you want to learn more about this VPN provider, check out our thorough NordVPN review.

Pros
  • Largest server network currently in use
  • Several servers across Germany
  • Connect to six devices at once
  • NordLynx protocol for better streaming speeds

Cons
  • The desktop app needs improvement

Watch German TV in USA with NordVPN 30-day money-back guarantee

Can I watch German TV in USA with a free VPN?

Yes, you can watch some live German TV with a free VPN, but it isn’t as good at unblocking geo-restricted websites and services. Additionally, lag and buffering will frequently ruin your streaming experience. This is because there aren’t many servers available with free VPNs.

Moreover, free VPNs don’t really keep you safe either. Some may not even encrypt your data, while others may not offer protections that guard against data leaks. Your online activities could, however, be monitored, resulting in data being logged and sold to outside parties.

But if you’re interested in watching German Content with a free VPN, you can check out the money-back guarantee and free trial of our recommended ExpressVPN.


With a German TV subscription in USA, you can enjoy a range of fantastic features that will immerse you in all the exclusive content uploaded to official websites. Not only that, but you also have the option to stream German TV online for free.

From gripping dramas to hilarious comedies, discover the richness of German entertainment that you can enjoy from the comfort of your home in the USA.

What are the Best Shows on German TV in 2024?

German TV channels offer a diverse series catering to various tastes and interests. With options ranging from captivating crime thrillers to gripping dramas, these ten shows have received top ratings in 2023.

  1. Biohackers
  2. Freud
  3. Sleeping Dog
  4. Oktoberfest 1900
  5. The Same Sky
  6. Babylon Berlin
  7. The Empress
  8. New Heights
  9. Queer Eye Germany
  10. Murder by the Lake

What are the Best Movies on German TV in 2024?

If you’re a fan of German movies and have access to them through a VPN, then allow us to suggest ten gems that are definitely worth your time. In 2023, German TV is serving up an impressive selection of films that cater to various genres and tastes.

  1. John Wick: Chapter 4
  2. All Quiet on the Western Front
  3. Blood & Gold
  4. Faraway
  5. Sun and Concrete
  6. Perfect Addiction
  7. Into the Beat
  8. Isi & Ossi
  9. Army of Thieves
  10. Rock My Heart

What’s New on German TV in February 2024?

Here are some exciting new shows and movies hitting German TV channels in February 2024:

  1. The Bride –  a gripping drama that explores the complexities of marriage and love.
  2. Dear Child – an intriguing plot filled with suspense and mystery.
  3. Nowhere,” a heartwarming comedy about finding your place in life.
  4. Inspector Rex Season 7 –  tackles challenging cases alongside his trusty canine partner.
  5. All or Nothing: The National Team in Qatar – This docuseries provides an insider’s perspective on Germany’s national soccer team during their journey through the World Cup qualifiers.
  6. Ordinary Men: The Forgotten Holocaust – A powerful documentary shedding light on lesser-known acts committed during one of humanity’s darkest periods.
  7. Borderland – takes audiences deep into complex criminal networks operating along Germany’s borders!
  8. Eva Longoria: Searching for Mexico – Season 1 – Explore her Mexican heritage & search for authentic cultural experiences across different regions
  9. Nowhere – sci-fi series promises a world beyond imagination.
  10. Spirit of Winter – enchanting fantasy film that guarantees magical adventures.

German TV channels you can watch with a VPN in USA

Get acquainted with the wide array of German TV channels that you can access in the USA using a VPN. This comprehensive list includes both popular and niche channels, offering a diverse range of programming to suit all tastes and interests.

  • ZDF
  • Das Erste
  • NDR Fernsehen
  • RTL
  • Sat.1
  • Vox
  • Maxdome
  • ProSieben

Moreover, you can even catch up on your favorite shows by accessing German versions of international streaming services such as Netflix or Amazon Prime Video through your VPN connection.


Which Devices are Compatible with German TV in USA?

Here are some of the devices that you can use to watch German TV channels in USA, ensuring a seamless and uninterrupted viewing experience:

  • Android phones
  • iPhones & iPads
  • Apple TV
  • Smart TVs
  • Roku Streaming Stick
  • Firestick
  • Macs & MacBooks
  • PS4
  • Xbox

How Can I stream German TV in the US on iPhone?

Follow our step-by-step guide to easily set up a VPN on your iPhone and stream German TV in USA. We provide simple instructions and tips to enhance your viewing experience on iOS devices.

  • Register for ExpressVPN, a highly dependable and efficient VPN service.
  • Install the user-friendly VPN app onto your device.
  • Connect to one of its servers located in Germany; Frankfurt is strongly recommended as an optimal choice here.
  • Next, access the settings menu and locate the “network” option to change your location to Germany!
  • Navigate over to the Apple app store whereupon you search for ‘German TV app.’
  • Download said application and sign in to watch trending shows available on German television!

How to Watch German TV Online in the USA on Android?

If you’re an Android user in Australia and want to know how can I watch German TV in the US? There are some simple steps you can follow.

  • Get a subscription to a VPN service such as ExpressVPN.
  • Install the VPN app on your device.
  • Next, connect with a server located in Germany (we recommend the Frankfurt server).
  • Head over to the Google Play Store and create a new Google account while setting its location as Germany.
  • With this newly created account, browse the Play Store for the desired German TV app.
  • Download the application and sign in to stream all those popular German shows and movies!

FAQs: German TV in USA

Many streaming services allow access to watch German TV. You can access the following if you connect to a German VPN server:

  • TV Now
  • ZDF
  • 7TV
  • DMAX
  • ARD

Yes, you can watch German TV online free in USA with the use of a VPN. This is because the geo-blocking restriction can be bypassed with a VPN. We recommend using ExpressVPN.

Yes, in USA and in most other countries, VPNs are entirely legal. In light of this, there is no reason you should run afoul of the law as long as you’re not using these services for illegal purposes.

It is allowed to use a VPN to watch German TV shows online for free in USA. Since German TV does not permit users from outside of Germany to access its material, if you sign up for a VPN service, you will be able to stream all of their TV series and movies without any problems.


Conclusion

German TV channels are renowned for offering exceptional content, yet it can be disheartening that these broadcasts are not accessible in USA due to stringent licensing agreements and copyright laws. However, one can now watch German TV in USA by utilizing a privacy-focused VPN service.

This entails connecting to a server located within Germany through this specialized VPN tool. Given its remarkable reliability, swift operational speed along comprehensive security provisions offered, ExpressVPN consistently remains our top choice as well as a highly-rated option.