Best VPNs For MLB.TV In 2024
As a die-hard baseball fan, I know the frustration of MLB TV blackouts all too well.
There’s nothing worse than gearing up to watch your favorite team play, only to find out you’re in the blackout zone.
That’s where a reliable VPN comes into play.
But not just any VPN will do. You need one that can seamlessly change your virtual location without a hitch, ensuring you never miss a pitch.
Note: This post contains affiliate links, which means I might earn a small commission if you purchase through these links — at no extra cost to you.
List of Best VPNs For MLB.TV In 2024
I’ve spent countless hours testing various VPNs to find the best ones that work flawlessly with MLB TV. These are my recommendations:
Why Do You Need a VPN for MLB.TV?
For baseball fans like myself, the allure of catching every pitch, hit, and home run of the MLB season is undeniable.
However, the frustration of regional blackouts on MLB.TV can quickly dampen this excitement.
Imagine being a Colorado Rockies fan living in Colorado, eager to watch your team play, only to find the game is blacked out.
This scenario is not limited to Colorado; it’s a common issue across various states due to MLB TV’s strict blackout rules.
For instance, fans in Iowa are blocked from watching not just one but six teams, including the Cubs, Cardinals, White Sox, Royals, Twins, and Brewers. That’s where a reliable VPN for MLB TV becomes a game-changer.
A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, serves as your ticket to bypassing these aggravating blackout restrictions.
By masking your real IP address and making it appear as if you are accessing MLB.TV from a different location, a VPN lets you enjoy every game, irrespective of your real geographical location.
Best VPNs For MLB.TV Reviewed In 2024
1. NordVPN Review — Best VPN for Watching MLB.TV
Current Deal: Get 66% off NordVPN
NordVPN boasts a vast network of servers across the globe, including multiple locations in the United States, making it an excellent choice for MLB.TV.
Unless you’re totally new to the MLB.TV streaming, there’s a good chance of you getting the “Media Error. This game is temporarily unavailable” error message.
In simple words, this message means that the MLB has detected that you’re using a VPN.
However, if you use NordVPN, you can bypass this error by using the doubleVPN feature.
This feature will cloak your IP address twice, making it impossible for MLB.tv to detect it.
NordVPN also emphasizes robust security and privacy features, which include military-grade encryption and a strict no-logs policy.
These features ensure that your viewing habits and online activities remain private and secure, an essential consideration for any VPN user.
Another strong point is the ease of use. NordVPN’s apps are intuitively designed, making it straightforward to select the optimal server for MLB TV streaming.
This user-friendly interface is a boon for those who might not be as tech-savvy.
Regarding performance, NordVPN delivered impressive speeds on the servers that did work with MLB.TV, ensuring a high-definition streaming experience free from buffering issues.
This is a critical factor since sports streaming requires stable and fast internet connectivity to enjoy the games without any hiccups.
In essence, it’s a solid choice for users who prioritize privacy and security alongside the ability to watch MLB games, as long as they stick to the specific servers that work.
Pros
It has a wide range of US servers to bypass MLB.TV restrictions
It comes with advanced features, like the Multi-hop, split tunneling, and Tor connections.
Built-in anti-virus tools
Cons
Slightly expensive
2. Private Internet Access VPN Review — Best Affordable VPN for MLB.TV
Current Deal: Get 83% off Private Internet Access
Following my assessment of NordVPN’s capabilities in sidestepping MLB TV blackouts, I turned my attention to another popular choice among baseball fans: PrivateInternetAccess (PIA).
Esteemed for its robust security features and impressive commitment to user privacy, PIA stands as a noteworthy contender for anyone seeking a VPN for MLB TV.
In my experience, PIA’s expansive server network, which extends across the globe, plays a pivotal role in its effectiveness in overcoming geographic restrictions.
This is particularly advantageous for MLB TV subscribers, as accessing games without the hindrance of blackouts depends greatly on the availability of servers in blackout-free regions.
During my testing, I found PIA’s servers in cities like Seattle, Miami, and Dallas to be exceptionally reliable for bypassing MLB TV blackouts.
One of PIA’s standout features is its straightforward and easy-to-navigate interface.
Thanks to their comprehensive server list, setting it up was a breeze, and selecting the optimal server for MLB TV streaming was equally effortless.
This ease of use, combined with PIA’s stable connection speeds, ensures a smooth and enjoyable streaming experience.
While there might be occasional dips in speed during peak times, the overall performance remains consistent and dependable.
Moreover, PIA excels in security and privacy. It is equipped with advanced encryption protocols, a strict no-logs policy, and a kill switch feature, which ensures that your online activities remain private and secure.
This peace of mind adds significant value to the VPN for MLB TV subscribers who prioritize their digital safety while enjoying baseball games.
Regarding value for money, PIA provides a competitive package. Its reasonable pricing structure, especially on longer-term plans, makes it an attractive proposition for MLB TV fans who are looking for an effective yet budget-friendly VPN solution.
Pros
Great value for money
Linux GUI app
Unlimited simultaneous connections
Cons
The monthly plan can be slightly expensive
3. CyberGhost VPN Review
Current Deal: Get 84% off CyberGhost VPN
Watch MLB.TV With CyberGhost VPN
In recent times, CyberGhost VPN has emerged as a notable contender in the VPN market — especially if you’re focused towards MLB TV.
Based on my extensive testing, here’s why CyberGhost VPN should be considered if you’re looking to bypass MLB TV blackouts.
First off, CyberGhost boasts an impressive server network, with over 7,000 servers in 90 countries.
This extensive coverage is crucial for MLB TV fans seeking to evade local blackouts.
I found that connecting to servers in strategic locations like New York, Los Angeles, and even some international cities allowed me to seamlessly stream MLB games that were otherwise unavailable due to blackout restrictions.
The ease of use and setup of CyberGhost VPN is something I can’t stress enough. The interface is user-friendly, making it a breeze to find and connect to the right server for MLB TV streaming.
Whether you’re a seasoned VPN user or new to the technology, CyberGhost ensures a hassle-free experience.
Performance-wise, CyberGhost delivers in terms of speed and reliability. My streams were consistently smooth, with no noticeable lag or buffering, even during high-traffic periods.
This is paramount for live sports streaming, where every second counts.
CyberGhost also excels in security and privacy. With AES 256-bit encryption, an automatic kill switch, and a strict no-logs policy, I felt secure using this VPN for MLB TV.
Knowing that my online activities were protected from prying eyes gave me peace of mind while streaming.
Regarding value for money, CyberGhost offers competitive pricing plans, making it an affordable option for baseball fans.
Additionally, the generous 45-day money-back guarantee provides ample time to test the service risk-free, ensuring it meets your MLB TV streaming needs.
Pros
2100+ servers in 11 locations
Offers 7 simultaneous connections
256-bit AES encryption and no data logs
Cons
No split tunneling feature
4. Surfshark VPN Review
Given its rising popularity among MLB TV viewers, I was keen to see how surfshark stacks up against the abovementioned VPNs, particularly in terms of performance, security, and value for money.
From the get-go, Surfshark impressed me with its user-friendly interface.
Navigating through its features was intuitive, making it accessible for both VPN veterans and newcomers.
What sets Surfshark apart is its unlimited simultaneous connections policy. This means you can stream MLB games on MLB TV across multiple devices with just one account, a feature that’s remarkably handy for households with numerous devices.
Performance-wise, Surfshark didn’t disappoint. Its servers, while fewer in number compared to some competitors, are well-optimized for speed and reliability.
I experienced minimal buffering while streaming MLB games, even on servers located far from my actual location. This is crucial for watching live sports, where every second counts.
In the realm of security, Surfshark checks all the boxes. With AES-256 encryption, a no-logs policy, and a kill switch, my online activities and identity remained shielded from prying eyes.
This added layer of privacy is especially appreciated, given the increasing concerns over online surveillance and data breaches.
Pros
Budget-friendly for long-term users.
Cons
Expensive monthly plan
Falls under the jurisdiction of 14-Eyes surveillance alliance.
Pros and Cons of Using a VPN for MLB.TV
However, like any technology, using a VPN with MLB.TV comes with its own set of pros and cons. Let me break it down for you.
Bypassing Blackouts:
The primary advantage of using a VPN for MLB.TV is its ability to dodge geographic restrictions.
Whether you’re blocked from watching local games due to blackout policies or international restrictions, a VPN can virtually relocate you to a region where the game is available.
Enhanced Privacy and Security:
VPNs encrypt your internet connection, protecting your online activities from prying eyes.
This means you can enjoy MLB.TV without worrying about your ISP throttling your bandwidth or external parties monitoring your viewing habits.
Access to International Games
With a VPN, you’re not just escaping blackouts; you’re unlocking a world of baseball.
You can access MLB.TV content from other countries, allowing for a richer baseball viewing experience.
Possible Performance Impact
VPNs can affect your streaming experience by adding a layer of encryption and rerouting your connection through distant servers.
Some users might notice a slight dip in streaming quality or increased buffering times, especially with lower-tier VPN services.
Cost
Free VPNs are rarely effective for streaming MLB.TV due to their slower speeds and limited server locations.
Investing in a reputable VPN service adds an extra cost on top of your MLB.TV subscription.
Compliance Issues
It’s essential to remember that bypassing MLB.TV blackouts with a VPN might conflict with their terms of service.
While I’ve yet to hear of severe repercussions, it’s a risk users should be aware of.
How to Setup and Use a VPN on Different Devices
First off, it’s important to choose a reliable VPN provider.
From my experience, NordVPN tops the list due to its security and ease of bypassing geographical restrictions.
Regardless of the device you’re using — be it smartphones, laptops, tablets, or smart TVs — the setup process generally follows a similar pattern.
- Registration: Sign up for a VPN service. NordVPN, for instance, offers a seamless sign-up process on its website.
- Download and Install: Go to the VPN’s official website or your device’s app store to download and install the application. This step is usually user-friendly and quick.
- Connect to a Server: Launch the VPN app and select a server in a US region that does not impose MLB.TV blackouts. This choice is crucial as connecting to the right server ensures unrestricted access to games.
- Access MLB.TV: With the VPN connected, log into your MLB.TV account and start streaming games without worrying about blackouts.
How To Fix Common VPN Issues For MLB.TV
Even with a VPN, you might encounter a few roadblocks.
Here are some common issues and their possible fixes:
Slow Streaming Speeds
This is often due to connecting to a distant server.
To resolve this, select a server that’s closer to your actual location but still outside the blackout region.
This adjustment should provide a balance between bypassing blackouts and maintaining high streaming speeds.
MLB.TV Detects VPN
Some VPNs might get detected by MLB.TV, leading to access issues.
The trick here is to ensure your VPN has a strong track record of bypassing such detections.
Can Free VPNs Bypass MLB.TV Blackouts?
The first issue I’ve noticed is that free VPNs struggle significantly with server infrastructure, which is crucial for bypassing MLB.TV’s stringent blackout restrictions.
These services usually have a limited number of overcrowded servers. This not only leads to poor streaming quality but also increases the chances of the VPN being detected and blocked by MLB.TV.
In my testing, when attempting to use free VPNs, I encountered frequent buffering and even complete service blackouts — no pun intended.
Moreover, speed and reliability are other major bases where free VPNs often strike out.
High-definition streaming, which is non-negotiable for live sports, demands fast, stable connections.
Unfortunately, the bandwidth limitations and throttling common with free VPNs make smooth, uninterrupted HD streaming nearly impossible.
Remember, baseball games can last for hours, and a jittery or pixelated image can ruin the experience.
Another critical issue is privacy and security. Free VPNs have a notorious track record for being unsafe.
Many have been caught out for logging and selling user data.
Given that one of the key reasons for using a VPN for MLB TV is to protect one’s privacy from surveillance and tracking, adopting a service that contradicts this purpose defeats the objective.
Frequently Asked Questions
What If MLB.TV Won’t Work With A VPN?
First, you need to make sure that your VPN app has IP and DNS leak protection enabled.
I’ve noticed that sometimes, simply switching to a different server or clearing your cache and cookies can solve the issue.
If problems persist, it might be time to consider switching to a more robust VPN provider like NordVPN.
Can I Watch MLB.TV Internationally?
Yes, MLB.TV offers international packages free of blackouts, which is a boon for fans outside the United States.
However, if you’re traveling or living abroad, using a VPN for MLB TV ensures you maintain access to all your favorite games without the hassles of blackout restrictions.
Just connect to a server in a country where the game isn’t blacked out, and you’re good to go.
Does MLB.TV Use IP Address?
Yes, MLB.TV uses your IP address to determine your geographic location and enforce blackout restrictions accordingly.
This is where a trusted VPN becomes indispensable.
A reliable VPN for MLB TV helps ensure you don't miss a pitch by masking your real IP address and letting you choose an IP location without blackouts.
Does MLB TV Allow VPN?
While MLB.TV’s terms of service might not explicitly mention VPNs; the platform typically frowns upon their use for bypassing geographical restrictions.
That said, high-quality VPN providers often offer features designed to prevent detection, allowing you to watch your games in peace.
My go-to has been NordVPN, thanks to their robust server network and strong privacy protections.
Is MLB.TV Region Locked?
Indeed, MLB.TV implements regional blackouts to protect local broadcasters’ rights, which can be frustrating for fans.
This makes a VPN for MLB TV an invaluable tool for those wishing to access games in their home market or anywhere across the globe without being blocked.
