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How to Watch HBO Max outside US [Complete Guide 2024]

  • Last updated December 4, 2024
  • written by
    Executive

Embark on epic missions with Creature Commandos and beyond! Whether you’re streaming HBO Max outside US, ExpressVPN ensures secure and unrestricted access to all your favourite shows. Enjoy seamless entertainment wherever you are.

HBO Max is a top-tier streaming service that boasts diverse content. But users wanted to know, Is HBO Max available outside US? Unfortunately, no. It is primarily available in the United States, with geo-restriction policies that prevent access from other countries. However, a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN is the answer to how to watch HBO Max outside US.

According to Prior Data, HBO Max has rapidly become a major player in the streaming industry, boasting. It’s a 27% increase from the previous year. Using a reliable VPN, connecting to a US server lets you trick the site and seamlessly stream all the latest hits and live sports events.

How to watch HBO Max outside US Key Takeaways:

  • Access HBO Max using a VPN: Use ExpressVPN for fast, buffer-free streaming by connecting to a US server.
  • Easy Subscription Steps: Select a VPN, connect to a US server, and sign up for HBO Max.
  • Affordable Cost and Plans: Explore HBO Max’s diverse and affordable subscription plans.
  • Best Device Support: Find guides on how to set up VPNs on various devices like PCs, mobiles, and routers.
  • Effortless Troubleshooting Tips: Fix VPN issues by switching servers, clearing cache, updating the app, or checking internet speed.

How to Watch HBO Max outside US? [Quick Guide]

If you want to enjoy the extensive library of HBO Max, accessing it is easy with a high-quality VPN. Here are my tested steps to help how to watch HBO Max outside US:

  1. Sign up for a top-tier VPN known for its streaming capabilities. I recommend ExpressVPN.
  2. Install the VPN and launch it on the device of your choice.
  3. Connect to a server located in the United States. (I recommended the New York server)

Connect-ExpressVPN-to-its-New-York-

Download ExpressVPN

4. Head to the HBO Max website or its app, sign in or sign up for the service.

Sign-in-to-HBO-Max-

Go to HBO Max website and log in

5. Enjoy the full library that HBO Max has to offer.

Note: Want to try the top VPN risk-free? ExpressVPN offers an outstanding risk-free 30-day trial for new users. You can sign up easily on their website and explore the VPN’s extensive features with no restrictions for a month. This trial is perfect for anyone looking to enhance their online privacy and security.


Why is HBO Max Not available outside US?

HBO Max is a streaming service primarily available in the United States. Due to certain licensing agreements and content distribution rights, HBO Max is inaccessible outside the US and in countries like Latin America and Europe.

When I tried to access HBO Max outside US without a VPN, I was face-to-face with an error message.

Max is Not Available in Your Region”

max-geo-restriction-error-

I encountered a geo-restriction error when attempting to stream outside US without a VPN.

reliable VPN like ExpressVPN can navigate around the site’s geo-restrictions to avoid getting blocked and skip right to streaming. It masks your IP address with a US one, making it appear that your internet traffic originates there, thus allowing you to enjoy HBO Max’s extensive library of shows and movies. This setup unlocks access and ensures smooth, buffer-free streaming from US.

Is HBO Max available outside US? The answer is yes, and with a premium VPN, you can enjoy its extensive library seamlessly. Now let’s talk about the best VPNs to watch HBO Max outside US.


The Best VPN To Watch HBO Max outside US [Quick Overview]

For those searching for how to watch HBO Max outside US, I have compiled a list of the three best VPNs with helpful features that make the ultimate streaming experience possible.

Why Trust Us?

At VPNRanks, our cybersecurity experts rigorously test each VPN for speed, security, and reliability. I conduct real-time tests on various devices to provide accurate, unbiased recommendations. Trust our expert guidance to help you choose the best VPN for HBO Max outside US


Best VPNs to Watch HBO Max outside US in 2024 [In-Depth Analysis]

Currently, HBO Max is limited to a few countries, making it inaccessible outside US unless you utilize a streaming VPN. I have selected the top VPNs compatible to learn how to watch HBO Max outside US.

These VPNs offer high-speed connections, compatibility with various devices, and additional benefits. The top picks that passed my criteria are listed below!

Feature ExpressVPN NordVPN Surfshark
HBO Max Libraries Unblocked US, UK, Canada, Australia, Germany US, UK, Canada, Japan, Netherlands US, UK, Canada, Australia, France
Streaming Speed High-speed servers for HD and 4K streaming High-speed servers for HD and 4K streaming High-speed servers for HD and 4K streaming
Protocols Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2 OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec, NordLynx OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec, WireGuard
Simultaneous Connections 8 10 Unlimited
Compatibility Works with various devices (PC, Mac, iOS, Android, Smart TV) Works with various devices (PC, Mac, iOS, Android, Smart TV) Works with various devices (PC, Mac, iOS, Android, Smart TV)
Bypass Geo-restrictions Yes, it reliably bypasses geo-restrictions Yes, it reliably bypasses geo-restrictions Yes, it reliably bypasses geo-restrictions
IP Address Roster Regularly updates IP addresses to avoid overcrowding Regularly updates IP addresses to avoid detection Regularly updates IP addresses to avoid detection
Streaming Reliability Highly reliable with minimal interruptions Highly reliable with minimal interruptions Highly reliable with minimal interruptions
Customer Support 24/7 live chat for immediate assistance 24/7 live chat for immediate assistance 24/7 live chat for immediate assistance
Price (monthly) $12.95 (standard plan) $11.95 (standard plan) $12.95 (standard plan)
Money-back Guarantee 30 days 30 days 30 days
Additional Features for HBO Max MediaStreamer DNS split tunneling, kill switch SmartPlay technology, CyberSec CleanWeb, Whitelister, MultiHop
Best For ExpressVPN is best for consistent access to HBO Max and high-quality streaming. NordVPN is ideal for advanced security features and multiple HBO Max libraries. Surfshark is perfect for unlimited device connections and affordable access to HBO Max.

How to Choose the Best VPN for Watching HBO Max outside US?

When choosing a VPN for watching HBO Max outside US, consider the following features to ensure a smooth and secure viewing experience:

1. Strong Encryption: Look for a VPN with AES 256-bit encryption, which the US government trusts to protect classified information. This ensures your data remains secure.

2. Kill Switch: A kill switch feature is essential as it blocks internet access if the VPN connection drops, preventing hackers from accessing your data.

3. No Logs Policy: Ensure the VPN provider has a strict no-logs policy, meaning they don’t collect or sell any of your personal information, enhancing your privacy.

4. Extra Privacy and Security Features: Opt for a VPN that offers additional security measures to protect against hackers, phishing, malware, and intrusive ads.

5. Server Availability: Choose a VPN with a large number of servers across multiple locations. This ensures high connection speeds and reliability, especially for streaming.

6. Device and Platform Compatibility: Ensure the VPN app is compatible with various platforms and devices for seamless integration, including smart TVs and other streaming devices.

7. Customer Support: A trustworthy VPN service should provide round-the-clock customer support to help with any issues, ensuring a hassle-free experience.


Can You Stream HBO Max outside US with a Free VPN?

Yes, you use a free VPN to watch HBO Max outside US. However, I must emphasize that this is not a reliable solution. The limitations of free VPNs, such as bandwidth caps, server availability, and potential logging of personal data, make them a poor choice for streaming services.

Security is another significant concern, as the lack of robust privacy features in free VPNs can lead to your personal information being compromised. For a safe and seamless streaming experience, a reputable VPN service like ExpressVPN is advisable.

These services provide optimized servers for streaming, ensuring privacy and a smooth viewing experience. Now let’s move towards that VPN that work and do not work with HBO Max outside US


VPNs That Work With HBO Max: Full Test Results

To ensure you have the most reliable options for streaming HBO Max outside US, I regularly test 62 VPNs and update our records to reflect the latest results.

Below is a comprehensive list of popular paid and free VPNs that are confirmed to work with HBO Max, as well as those that don’t:

VPNs that Work with HBO Max

VPNs that Don’t Work with HBO Max
ExpressVPN Avira VPN Free
CyberGhost Astrill VPN
Surfshark Hide.me Free
NordVPN Hola VPN
TunnelBear Free IPVanish
Windscribe McAfee VPN
PureVPN Proton VPN Free
PrivadoVPN Free TorGuard
Hotspot Shield Ivacy
Mullvad ZoogVPN
PrivateVPN VPN Proxy Master

How do I Get an HBO Max Subscription outside US?

You can get an HBO Max subscription US using a VPN. However, you cannot pay with your local credit card since HBO Max only accepts US credit cards.

Wondering how to sign up HBO Max outside US? You can check the following three effective ways to pay for HBO Max subscription:

  1. Pay HBO outside US subscription using a gift card.
  2. Subscribing to HBO Max with iTunes
  3. With Apple or Google ID

Method 1: Can I Pay For HBO Max with a Gift Card Outside US?

You can also pay for HBO subscription outside US using gift cards. Just follow the steps below:

  1. Go to MyGiftCardSupply and buy an HBO Max gift card. The gift cards range from $25 to $50.
  2. Visit HBO Max and click Redeem your Gift Card.
  3. Enter your gift card number and a US Zipcode.
  4. Enter your email ID, username, and other information.
  5. Go to the HBO Max website and sign in using your credentials.
  6. That’s it! You have successfully subscribed to HBO Max outside US.


Method 2: Subscribe to HBO Max Outside US with iTunes

Wondering, how to create HBO Max account outside US?  Apart from the other two options, you may also subscribe and pay for HBO Max outside US with iTunes:

  1. Using ExpressVPN, connect to a US server.
  2. From your iOS device, go to settings –> Apple account –> Media & Purchases –> change your region to USA.
  3. Purchase an iTunes gift card from a reputable site.
  4. Visit the Apple App Store and download the HBO Max app.
  5. Launch the app and then click ‘Sign up now.’
  6. Pick a subscription plan, then type in your iTunes account credentials to proceed.
  7. Once the transaction is processed, log in and enjoy watching HBO Max.


Method 3: How Do I Get to HBO Max on Google Play

You can pay the HBO Max price using Google ID HBO Max outside US as follows:

  • Sign up with a premium VPN service like ExpressVPN.
  • Download the VPN app and connect to a server in the United States. (Suggested server: New York)
  • Launch Google Play Store, tap on the three bars at the top left corner, and go to your account.
  • Switch your region to the US.
  • Confirm the country change, and download the HBO Max application.
  • Select Google Pay when paying the HBO Max USA price and enjoy streaming.


HBO Max US Price:

If you’re thinking, is HBO Max US free? No, it isn’t. HBO Max US price begins at US$ 9.99 /mo for the basic ad-supported plan. For ad-free streaming, the cost is US$ 15.99 /mo .

Moreover, Max introduces a new Ultimate plan without ads for US$ 19.99 /mo . Subscribers can save as much as 20% by opting for an annual subscription to any plan. These prices may fluctuate due to exchange rate changes.

HBO-Max-Pricing-Plans-

HBO Max is offering 3 plans with monthly and annual payment options.

Here’s the table detailing how much is HBO Max US subscription is:

Subscription plan Max Ad-Lite Max Ad-Free Max Ultimate
Monthly Bundle US$ 9.99 /mo US$ 15.99 /mo US$ 19.99 /mo
Yearly Bundle US$ 99.99 /yr US$ 149.99 /yr US$ 199.99 /yr
Offline Download 0 30 Videos 100 Videos
Resolution Quality HD HD 4k HDR
Concurrent Streaming 2 devices 2 devices 4 devices
Dolby Atmos Sound No No Yes

How to watch HBO Max outside US on Different Devices?

HBO Max offers compatibility with various devices to stream content on any platform. With a VPN, users can access HBO Max on smart TVs, gaming consoles, mobile devices, web browsers, and tablets.

Follow the guides below on how to get HBO Max outside the US on different devices:

Android (TV, phone, tablet, and laptop) Windows iOS (iPhone, iPad, and iPod)
Macbooks Google Chromebook Amazon Firestick
Apple TV Samsung TV Smart TV
Roku PlayStation 4 & 5 Xbox

How to Download HBO Max Outside US on iOS

Follow these steps to find out how to watch HBO Max outside the US using your Apple device.

  1. Get a subscription to a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN.
  2. Download and sign up for the ExpressVPN app from the App Store.
  3. Choose a server from the USA in the app. (I recommended the New York server)
  4. Proceed to HBO Max, where you can log in or sign up for an account.
  5. Voila! You can enjoy unlimited access to HBO Max’s content on your Apple devices!
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How to Get HBO Max Outside US on Android

Here is how to use HBO Max outside US on an Android device:

  1. Download and sign up for the ExpressVPN app from the Play Store. My top recommendation for Max.
  2. Choose a server located in the USA. (I recommended the New York server)
  3. Access the HBO Max website or download the HBO Max app from Google Play.
  4. Sign up for an account to start streaming your favorite shows on HBO Max!

How to Watch HBO Max Outside US on Amazon FireStick

Here’s a step-by-step guide for you if you were wondering how to watch HBO Max outside US on Firestick:

  1. Subscribe to ExpressVPN. My top recommendation for Max.
  2. Manually set up the ExpressVPN connection on your Firestick.
  3. Choose a server located in the USA. (I recommended the New York server)
  4. Visit the Amazon App Store and download the HBO Max app.
  5. Open the app, create an account, and binge-watch your favorite shows on HBO Max!

How to Watch HBO Max Outside US on Smart TV

Follow the steps to learn how to watch HBO Max outside US on Smart TV:

  1. Subscribe to a reliable VPN service. I recommend ExpressVPN.
  2. Configure ExpressVPN on your Smart TV using MediaStreamer.
  3. Connect to any US server from the list of servers offered. (The New York server is my top recommendation).
  4. Download the app from your device’s channel store or visit HBO Max.
  5. Sign in with your HBO Max account and start streaming.

How to watch HBO Max Outside US on Roku?

Many are worried about does HBO Max work outside of the US on Roku with VPN, as Roku devices do not have native VPN support. Yes, it can. However, you’ll need to set up a VPN on your router or use a VPN compatible with Roku. Here are the steps:

  1. Subscribe to my top recommended VPN – ExpressVPN.
  2. Set up ExpressVPN on Roku using the MediaStreamer feature.
  3. Connect to a US server from its servers list. (Recommended server: New York).
  4. Visit the home page of Roku, look for HBO Max, and sign in.
  5. Once you’re done, enjoy HBO Max US live streaming on Roku.

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What to Watch on HBO Max outside US?

There is nothing to worry about if you have trouble deciding what to watch on HBO Max outside US. In the following tables, I have jotted down the most popular shows and movies to watch on HBO Max outside US in 2024.

Can You Watch Live Sport on HBO Max in 2024?

If you want to watch sports on Max outside US, check out the latest sports events HBO Max in 2024:

Philadelphia Flyers vs Washington Capitals America’s Backyard Gold Season 1 Boston at Florida NHL Round 2 Game 2
Denver Nuggets vs Oklahoma City UCI Mountain Bike Downhill World Cup Cavaliers at Celtics Game 1 Semi Final
New York Knicks vs Boston Celtics Timberwolves vs Lakers Circuit de Wallonie 2024
Dallas Mavericks vs Minnesota Timberwolves Real Madrid vs Bayern Munich Leg 2 Semi Final Dortmund vs Real Madrid UEFA Final
New Orleans Pelicans vs Golden State Warriors Indiana Pacers at New York Knicks NBA Playoffs Game 5 2024 Four Days of Dunkirk

What’s Coming on HBO Max in 2024?

With their latest offering in 2024, from action-packed films to romantic dramas, there’s no shortage of entertainment on HBO Max in the coming days.

Following are the latest shows and movies available for streaming on HBO Max in  2024:

House of the Dragon Season 2 Argentina vs Guatemala 2024 International Friendly
Slave Play. Not a Movie. A Play. How It Really Happened Season 8
Magnolia Table with Joanna Gaines Season 8 Paul Blart: Mall Cop
Trap Mini Beat Power Rockers: Composirockers
Mecum Full Throttle: Indianapolis IN 2024 Backed by the Bros, season 1
Philadelphia Phillies vs Chicago Cubs Deadliest Catch, season 20
Hannah Einbinder: Everything Must Go (Max Original) House of The Dragon, season 2 (HBO Original)
Farmhouse Fixer: Camp Revamp Season 1 Slave Play. Not A Movie. A Play. (HBO Original)
Breaking New Ground (Max Original) Beach Cottage Chronicles, season 4
Problemista The Great Food Truck Race, season 17
Biden-Trump 2024 Presidential Debate High Speed Chase, season 2
Stevie Van Zandt: Disciple (HBO Original) Crimes Gone Viral, season 5


Why is HBO Max not working outside US?

How to Fix Buffering Issues on HBO Max outside US:

Buffering issues can be a major annoyance when streaming your favorite shows and movies on HBO Max. Here are several steps you can take to fix buffering issues:

  • Check the servers’ status: Verify whether HBO Max servers are down using Downdetector.
  • Check Your Internet Network: Ensure your internet speed is at least 5 Mbps for HD streaming.
  • Reconnect Your VPN: Switch the VPN server to a US location if necessary.
  • Check the Number of Devices Streaming HBO Max: Ensure no more than three devices stream simultaneously.
  • Sign out and Back into Your Account: Log out and log back into your HBO Max account.
  • Update HBO Max: Check for and install any updates for the HBO Max app.
  • Reinstall HBO Max: Uninstall and reinstall the HBO Max app to fix corrupted files.
  • Clear Cache and Delete Browser Cache: Clear the app or browser cache to resolve buffering.
  • Restart Your Device: Restart your device to fix temporary glitches.

Common HBO Max Error Messages outside US and How to Fix Them?

  • Not in Service Area” Error: Use a VPN to bypass geo-restrictions to connect to a US server.
  • Unable to Connect” Error: Check your internet connection and restart your device or router.
  • Service Temporarily Unavailable”: Try again later or check the HBO Max server status.
  • Playback Error”: Clear your app cache or reinstall the app.
  • Login Issues”: Ensure your credentials are correct and reset your password.


General Insights from Redditors on HBO Max outside US

Redditors Share Tips for Watching HBO Max via VPN from the UK

Redditors suggest trying different VPN servers or setting up a VPN through a US residential connection to bypass HBO Max blocks.

Some users found success with ExpressVPN, specifically selecting a Tampa, Florida server, while others recommended Surfshark for its reliable performance. Alternatives like SmartDNS or Getflix were also mentioned as effective options.

Redditors Face Issues with MAX Access While Traveling Abroad

Redditors report problems accessing the new MAX app outside the US, with many unable to log in using their HBO Max accounts. While HBO Max still works for some, MAX seems restricted to US accounts, even with VPNs.

Users from Europe and Latin America are frustrated as they can’t use their accounts abroad, suggesting the need to wait for MAX’s official launch in other regions or stick with HBO Max, where it’s still available.

Redditors Offer Solutions for Accessing HBO Max USA via VPN on iOS

Redditors discussed issues with accessing HBO Max USA using a VPN on iOS, where the app displays a region error despite working in other countries like Portugal. Some users suggested the problem might be due to the recent transition from HBO Max to the new MAX app.

One Redditor recommended switching VPN servers, such as from Seattle to Phoenix, which resolved the issue for them. Another pointed out that mobile devices use GPS for location tracking, suggesting the need to spoof the GPS location to match the VPN’s US server.

Additionally, alternatives like torrenting or BBC iPlayer were mentioned for watching shows like Doctor Who.

Redditors Struggle with HBO Max Availability on TVs Outside the US

Redditors report issues accessing HBO Max on TVs outside the US, likely due to the rebranding to MAX and regional app differences. Some suggest sideloading the HBO Max app on Fire Stick or Android TV as a workaround.

Availability varies by TV brand, with alternatives like Roku recommended for smoother streaming. The situation may improve once the HBO Max and MAX apps fully merge across regions.

Redditors Discuss Methods to Access HBO Max in Unsupported Countries

Redditors recommend using a VPN to access HBO Max in regions where it’s unavailable. Users can bypass geo-restrictions by connecting to a VPN server in a supported country.

Popular VPNs like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark are frequently suggested. However, they caution that this may violate HBO Max’s terms of service, so choosing a reliable VPN is important to avoid potential issues.


Reviews of HBO Max outside US

If you’re looking for what the Amazon audience has to say about HBO Max, here are the reviews:

Rating: 5 stars
Summary: 

HBO Max is praised for its great app functionality, content availability, and integration with devices like the Firestick. Some users experienced issues with 4K UHD quality but found solutions or updates that resolved these problems. Overall, the service is comparable in value to other streaming options, with easy access to extensive HBO content.

Rating: 1 stars
Summary: 

HBO Max is criticized for its poor Firestick and Xbox One performance, citing severe navigation issues, frequent buffering, lagging, and sound problems. Users report difficulty with rewinding and fast-forwarding, frequent app crashes, and unresponsive customer support. Many find the app unusable despite its high cost, often resorting to alternative devices or canceling their subscriptions out of frustration.


More VPN Guides from VPNRanks for For American Users:


FAQs: How to Watch HBO Max outside US

Yes, HBO Max is region-locked and only available in the US, Latin America, the Caribbean, and some European countries. If you try to access the service from locations like USA, you’ll encounter the “Not Available In Your Region” error message. I recommend using a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN to access HBO Max content seamlessly.

Using a VPN to watch HBO Max outside USA is a gray area. While it isn’t illegal, it does violate HBO Max’s terms of service, which could result in your account being suspended. However, many users still use a VPN to access geo-restricted content.

Yes, HBO Max merged with Discovery Plus to become Max on May 23, 2023. The new service combines HBO’s premium content with Discovery’s extensive reality, lifestyle, and documentary programming library. This merger provides a comprehensive entertainment platform for viewers.

There’s no current plan for HBO Max to be available outside USA. Instead of HBO Max coming outside USA, a limited number of HBO shows and movies are available through a licensing agreement on Crave’s Canadian streaming platform.

To watch HBO Max outside USA, you can use VPN service with US servers. I recommend using a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN.

Yes, Crave is a streaming platform that provides access to some exclusive HBO content available on HBO Max, along with great shows from Showtime and other top networks. However, Crave doesn’t have licensing agreements for the entire HBO Max library. You’ll need a VPN to avoid geo-restrictions to get full access to HBO’s award-winning shows and movies.

Yes, you can sign in to HBO Max on different devices, but the number of simultaneous streams is limited as per the subscription plan. The Standard plan supports streaming on three devices at the same time. You can stream on one device at a time if you have the Basic plan (no longer available to new or returning subscribers).

To use HBO Max abroad, connect to a VPN with servers in a supported country like the US. Once connected, access HBO Max as if you were in that region. Ensure your VPN is reliable to avoid detection and potential service restrictions. Popular options include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark.

Yes, you can share HBO Max in different countries, but it’s important to note that HBO Max is region-locked. This means that while you can share your account with someone in another country, they may need to use a VPN to access the content, depending on whether HBO Max is available in their region.


Conclusion!

HBO Max offers a wealth of excellent content, but geo-restrictions can stand in the way of accessing it. Fortunately, using a VPN and following my step-by-step guide on how to watch HBO Max outside US, you can circumvent these restrictions and enjoy high-quality streaming on various devices.

While many premium options are available, I confidently recommend ExpressVPN for its seamless setup and consistent performance. Its streaming-optimized features remarkably redefine your streaming experience, ensuring Canadians can enjoy HBO Max’s rich offerings without a hitch.


Recent Comments 2

  • Your information that HBO Max is not available outside of the US is absolutely not true. I live in Finland and we have had HBO Max on our Samsung smart tv since 2022. It is not just Finland, but many other European countries. Some European countries still do not have it. But 80 percent do have it.

    • Rehma Khan says:

      Hello Vahan,

      Absolutely, you’re correct, and I appreciate the clarification. It’s true that HBO Max is available in Finland and many other European countries, not just within the US. However, it’s worth noting that the content library on HBO Max vary from one region to another, meaning the US version of HBO Max still maintains a different selection of shows and movies compared to other libraries.

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