​​Are you a globetrotter with a soft corner for "Friends" or a privacy-conscious netizen who can't get enough of "Game of Thrones"? Perhaps Max (formerly HBO Max) is your go-to platform for watching your favorite shows, but you can’t get past geo-restrictions to access it and are new to using a VPN.

No worries! In this article, we'll uncover how to use a VPN to access HBO Max content worldwide, including crucial reasons why a VPN is useful and our curated list of top-notch VPN picks.

Buckle up; let’s dive right in!

How to use a VPN with HBO Max

You can use a virtual private network (VPN) to access Max (formerly HBO Max) and enjoy your favorite shows while hiding your true location and encrypting your connection to keep it secure.

In order to use a VPN with HBO Max, follow the instructions below:

1. Choose a fast and reliable VPN service to download, such as NordVPN, ExpressVPN, or Surfshark.
2. Launch the VPN on your streaming device.
3. Select a server location that Max caters to. (Max is only available in the U.S. and select international countries.)
4. Go to the HBO Max website or app to log in. If you don't already have an HBO Max subscription, you'll need to sign up.
5. Viola! After successfully logging in, you can safely watch your favorite shows.

VPNs help you bypass geo-blocks, but not subscription costs. If you still need an HBO Max account, sign up on Max’s website. Alternatively, you might be able to snag a free Max or HBO subscription via your internet, mobile, or TV provider.

Reasons to use a VPN with HBO Max

The main reasons to use a VPN with HBO Max include:

• Bypassing geo-restrictions
• Maintaining privacy
• Preventing ISP throttling

VPNs can unblock geo-restricted streaming services, allowing you to watch Max from anywhere. Furthermore, they offer robust security protocols to hide your traffic from ISPs, ensuring you can stream HBO Max with peace of mind. If you travel often, a VPN connection will keep you safe on public Wi-Fi while catching up on “Succession” episodes.

Best VPNs for HBO Max

The best VPN for streaming on platforms like Max, Hulu, and Netflix include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, and Private Internet Access (PIA). These VPN providers offer fast speeds, compatibility with various devices, and the capacity to access HBO Max content despite geo-restrictions. Many, if not all, also offer at least a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can try them risk-free.

NordVPN

4.9

Limited-time offer: 69% off + 3 extra months

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On NordVPN's website

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NordVPN

• High-quality VPN offering safety and speed
• Loads of servers for multiple connection options
• Works with popular streaming services, including Netflix
• Too many confusing plans

Unravel the intricate layers of online security with NordVPN. This digital guardian offers unparalleled protection bundled with high-speed connectivity. It stands as a fortress, shielding your data from prying eyes while ensuring seamless streaming and browsing. We've also tested NordVPN with BBC iPlayer, Netflix, Hulu, and many other streaming services with much success.

Get NordVPN | Read Our NordVPN Review

ExpressVPN

4.6

Save 49% on 12 months + 3 months free

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On ExpressVPN's website

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ExpressVPN

• Premium VPN offering strong security and ultra-fast speeds
• Strict no-logs policy with independent audit
• In-house Lightway protocol for more speed and security
• More expensive than NordVPN, Surfshark, and CyberGhost

ExpressVPN is your passport to unrestricted internet freedom. Its blazing-fast servers span across the globe, offering a robust platform for secure and anonymous online activities. From streaming your favorite TV shows to conducting confidential business, ExpressVPN has got you covered.

Get ExpressVPN | Read Our ExpressVPN Review

Surfshark

4.9

Limited-time offer: 82% off + 4 months free

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On Surfshark's website

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Surfshark

• VPN technology offering stability and speed
• Unlimited simultaneous connections
• Works with Netflix and other streaming services
• Headquarters in Nine Eyes Alliance

Dive into the boundless ocean of the internet with Surfshark. This cost-effective VPN offers an impressive balance of speed, security, and simplicity. It's like having a private lane on the information superhighway, free from traffic and surveillance. Plus, it supports unlimited simultaneous connections, making it a win-win for any VPN lover.

Get Surfshark | Read Our Surfshark Review

Private Internet Access (PIA)

5.0

Save 83% on a 2-year subscription + 4 months free

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On Private Internet Access's website

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Private Internet Access

• VPN offering fast internet speeds and strict no-logs policy
• Unblocks Netflix and other streaming services
• Antivirus and dedicated IP address cost extra

Private Internet Access (PIA) is your personal tunnel to the digital world. It offers a blend of speed and security that sets the standard for private browsing. With PIA, you're not just a user but a digital ghost, invisible and untouchable. And with advanced features like a dedicated IP, you double your chances of unlocking geo-restricted streaming content on Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and more.

Get PIA | Read Our PIA Review

How to choose a VPN for HBO Max

To enhance your HBO Max streaming joy, keep in mind these paramount elements when selecting a VPN:

• Streaming speed: Choose a VPN known for its lightning-fast, dependable speeds, which will pave the way for a sleek, uninterrupted viewing experience.
• U.S. servers: To tweak your IP address and unlock HBO Max, it helps if your VPN has a broad spectrum of U.S. servers.
• Split tunneling: This lets you divert part of your online traffic via the VPN while the rest of your data flows straight to the internet. This feature is perfect for those who want to watch HBO Max while surfing the web.
• Device compatibility: This assures that the device you want to stream HBO Max on is in sync with your VPN.
• Security protocols: A VPN that's equipped with robust and speedy security measures, such as WireGuard, ensures your privacy is guarded while offering you swift access to the HBO Max app.
• Dedicated IP: This feature helps you sneak past any network blocks HBO Max might throw at you if it sniffs out your VPN usage, simply by bestowing upon you a unique, exclusive IP address or location of your choice.

If HBO Max is your favorite streaming platform, consider these key elements when selecting a VPN, especially while traveling and on the go.

HBO Max might block your VPN

The use of VPNs are legal in most regions but may be banned or restricted in certain countries. Even if VPNs are legal in your area, Max can and will block your VPN if it detects it. If you access geo-blocked content outside of Max’s areas of service, you are breaking its Terms of Use. Alternatively, you aren’t breaking any ToS (terms of service) rules if you use a VPN with Max while in regions where it’s available, but Max might block your VPN anyway.

That means you’ll need a high-quality VPN whether you’re streaming “The Last of Us” with a VPN at your local cafe or traveling abroad. The better the VPN, the less likely Max is to catch it.

If Max blocks your VPN, first check that you selected a VPN server within Max’s service areas or try connecting to a different one. If your VPN is still blocked after selecting a new server location, try restarting the VPN app, clearing your browser cache, contacting the VPN provider’s customer support, or taking advantage of a dedicated IP. If all else fails, upgrade your plan or try a different VPN.

HBO Max VPN FAQs

Bottom line

Harnessing the power of a VPN to unlock HBO Max's content and revel in your beloved shows regardless of where you are is a breeze. However, don't rush into choosing any VPN. Ponder upon critical factors when selecting a VPN service, such as connection speeds, availability of servers, split tunneling, advanced VPN protocols, and compatibility with your devices to ensure an optimal viewing experience.

For more recommendations: We've got you covered with our guide on best VPNs for streaming, detailing the cream of the crop when it comes to VPNs for streaming. This guide will prove instrumental in your quest to find the perfect VPN for you. As alluring as free VPNs may sound, they often disappoint in delivering a smooth, secure experience. The quality and reliability offered by a premium service are unrivaled.

Happy streaming!

4.9

Limited-time offer: 69% off + 3 extra months

Learn More

On NordVPN's website

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NordVPN

• High-quality VPN offering safety and speed
• Loads of servers for multiple connection options
• Works with popular streaming services, including Netflix
• Too many confusing plans

Author Details

Mars Groves

About the Author

Mars is a cybersecurity professional and writer based in California. He serves as an Advisory Board Member for WEBGAP, specializing in browser isolation.