You can access CNBC’s live content using a number of streaming services or directly on the website, but if you’re outside of the US, you will likely be locked out due to geographic content blocking. This is why it’s important to get a VPN that can give you a US IP address before heading on vacation.
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) can help you bypass those content blocks so that you can access your favorite CNBC content from home. If you’re hoping to watch CNBC anywhere outside the US, a VPN can grant you access. VPNs route your internet traffic through a server in a location of your choice and encrypt it, replacing your IP address and protecting your privacy.
There are a lot of details on the VPN providers that we’ve added to this list, but if you haven’t got time to stick around, here is a summary of our top recommendations:
- NordVPN: Our top choice VPN for CNBC. Veteran provider with over 5,400 servers dotted across the globe and plenty of US servers. Excellent speeds, strong privacy features, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Surfshark: The best budget choice VPN for CNBC. This speedy, affordable service has plenty of US servers and one of the strongest security offerings on the market. Allows an unlimited number of connections.
- ExpressVPN: Unblocks CNBC from just about anywhere with blazingly fast streaming speeds. Apps ensure high standards of privacy and security and are easy to use.
- CyberGhost: A great value option with some of the fastest streaming servers we’ve tested. Easy-to-use apps are great for novices.
- IPVanish: 400+ servers based in the US unblock CNBC from abroad seamlessly. Scored well in our speed tests.
- PrivateVPN: Unblocks CNBC, Hulu, and more from abroad. Strong security and privacy features.
- Private Internet Access: Servers in over 50 US cities. Good speeds for non-stop streaming. Highly secure and allows up to 10 simultaneous connections.
How to use a VPN with CNBC
Setting up a VPN so you can watch CNBC abroad is a lot easier than you might think. Just follow our step-by-step guide below, and you’ll be watching CNBC in no time.
There are no hidden terms—just contact support within 30 days if you decide NordVPN isn’t right for you and you’ll get a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here.
Here’s how to watch CNBC live online abroad with a VPN:
- First, sign up with a suitable VPN provider that can unblock CNBC abroad. We recommend NordVPN.
- Download the appropriate VPN app from your device.
- Open your VPN app and log in with your details and then select a server within the US to gain a US IP address (so it appears as if you are watching CNBC from back home).
- Wait for the connection to be established, and then you’re good to go! Just log in with your cable provider (or one of the streaming services we mention later in this article), and you can stream to your heart’s content.
- If you’re still encountering issues, try clearing your browser’s cache and reloading the page.
Best VPNs for CNBC – at a glance
We’ve compared the most important features for the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for watching CNBC from anywhere.
The best VPNs for CNBC
You’ll find there are tons of VPN providers out there, but they’re not all equal. We based our list of the best VPNs for CNBC on the following criteria:
- Effectively unblocks CNBC
- Has multiple US servers available
- Uses strong security and encryption
- Provides prompt customer support
- Minimal to no logging of user data
- Fast connection speeds
Here is our list of the best VPNs for CNBC:
1. NordVPN
Jan 2023
Unblocks CNBCTested Jan 2023
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- Background
- FireTV
Website: www.NordVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
This provider stores no logs and makes use of 256-bit AES encryption. DNS leak protection and a kill switch ensure that information isn’t leaked to your ISP. Users can make bitcoin payments for more secure and anonymous transactions.
Android, iOS, macOS, Linux, and Windows apps are available, in addition to Google Chrome and Firefox extensions. Devices that don’t have native apps can be manually configured.
BEST VPN FOR CNBC:NordVPN is our top choice. Fast and secure service that works well with CNBC. Allows up to 6 devices to be used simultaneously from one account. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can try it risk-free.
Pros:
- Over 1,900 servers in the US can unblock just about anything from abroad
- Extremely fast speeds
- Top-notch security and privacy protection
- Can connect 6 devices at once with the basic package
- Around-the-clock live chat available
- Works in China
Cons:
- Finding a reliable server for streaming can sometimes be a process of trial and error
Our score:
Read our full review of NordVPN.
2. Surfshark
Unblocks CNBCTested Jan 2023
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.Surfshark.com
Surfshark has a network of more than 3,200 servers in 100+ countries, including the US. There are plenty of American servers to choose from, so you shouldn’t run into any issues when trying to stream during evenings or weekends. Further, with strong speeds overall, this VPN will allow you to watch CNBC in the highest possible quality, wherever you are in the world.
Being able to watch CNBC abroad isn’t enough, though; you have to be able to do so safely. That’s why Surfshark uses 256-bit encryption, a kill switch (which stops sending data as soon as your connection drops), and protection against IPv6 and DNS leaks. Notably, Surfshark follows a no-logging policy and as such, can’t reveal what you get up to online under any circumstances. Should you run into any issues, live chat-based support is available 24/7.
Surfshark includes macOS, Windows, iOS, Android, and Linux apps. Select wireless routers are supported, too, but you’ll have to install the service manually.
BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark is more than fast enough for CNBC, and can unblock a whole host of other services. There aren’t any connection or bandwidth limits, plus this is one of the most affordable and secure services on the market. Best of all, it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Plenty of speedy US servers
Perfect for streaming
Spotless security and privacy record
Great at bypassing regional restrictions
Connect as many devices as you like
Has the occasional slow server
Read our full Surfshark review.
3. ExpressVPN
Website: www.ExpressVPN.com
ExpressVPN makes your connection more secure while giving access to high-speed servers in the US. These servers are capable of unblocking CNBC, as well as other popular streaming sites like Hulu. Sharing a VPN account is made easy since five simultaneous connections are allowed with a single subscription.
ExpressVPN employs 256-bit AES encryption which is a well-respected and highly effective security measure. While the service stores some connection logs, they are minimal. Importantly, ExpressVPN does not keep IP logs of identifying metadata. To ensure the highest level of privacy and security, the service offers a killswitch that deactivates your internet connection if the connection to a VPN server is lost. In addition, you have DNS leak protection to ensure your information stays inside the encrypted tunnel.
For those who want private payment options, ExpressVPN accepts bitcoin payments. The company also has a .onion site which means that it’s possible to register almost completely anonymously.
You can install ExpressVPN on macOS, Windows, Linux, Android, and iOS devices, among other devices. Don’t have a device that’s supported? You can manually configure many devices to use the VPN, including certain routers.
LAG-FREE STREAMING:ExpressVPN is well worth considering. Reliably unblocks CNBS as well as the most geo-restricted streaming services. Exceptional speeds for buffer-free HD viewing, along with total security and privacy. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Servers in dozens of US cities easily unblock CNBC
Hard to beat on privacy and security
Fast speeds for downloading
User-friendly apps for major mobile and desktop platforms
24/7 live chat has you back on any technical issues
Slightly higher price than its rivals
Streaming servers aren’t labeled
See our full review of ExpressVPN.
4. CyberGhost
Website: www.Cyberghost.com
Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS
CyberGhost has a whopping network of over 9000 global servers with 1,300+ fast servers in the US alone. It has fast speeds which allow for the streaming of HD content. It can unblock CNBC, as well as other services such as Showtime. Seven simultaneous connections are allowed per subscription.
CyberGhost has a no-logs privacy policy, and employs 256-bit AES encryption. DNS and IPv6 leak protection come as standard, preventing your private data from being leaked to your ISP. A kill switch protects you in the case of a dropped VPN connection. The service accepts secure bitcoin payments.
Apps can be downloaded for MacOS, Windows, Android, and iOS. Devices without native apps, such as some routers and Linux machines, can be manually configured.
BEGINNERS’ CHOICE:CyberGhost has a simple set up. Unblocks CNBC. Good option if you are looking for a fast, reliable connection and an easy-to-use interface. Can struggle with unblocking other popular streaming sites. 45-day money-back guarantee.
Operates over 1,300 servers in various cities throughout the US
A low-cost provider with very fast servers for streaming
Solid privacy and security features are enabled by default in the apps
Apps are great for beginners who find them very easy to use
24/7 live chat support
Power users may lament the lack of advanced configuration options
Doesn’t work in China or the UAE
Read our full review of CyberGhost.
5. IPVanish
Website: www.IPVanish.com
IPVanish has over 1000 US servers, which means you can easily access services like CNBC, Netflix, and HBO Now. Fast connection speeds enable you to watch your favorite shows in HD. With no limit on the number of simultaneous connections you can have, IPVanish is great for those who want to share an account.
IPVanish offers DNS leak protection, and its apps come with a kill switch. These measures prevent data leaks that reveal your true location to the streaming services you’re using. In addition, this service uses 256-bit AES encryption to further protect your connection. IPVanish has a strict no-logs policy to help guarantee user privacy. Bitcoin payments ensure that your transactions are secure and virtually anonymous.
A thorough, searchable knowledge database is available to customers, allowing for easy access to information related to setting up and using the service. Support is available through an email form system.
Apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Fire TV, and some routers. Manual setup is possible for unsupported routers, Chromebooks, and Linux devices.
LARGE NETWORK:IPVanish is easy to use. Offers strong privacy and security with a huge number of IPs and servers, plus additional protection against DNS leaks. Fast speeds but not the cheapest on this list. 30-day money-back guarantee.
With over 1000 US servers, it can unblock just about any streaming site in HD speeds
Strong encryption and privacy protections
Works well with Kodi devices
Allows you to connect all of your devices at once
Apps don’t work in China
Based in the US, a 5 Eyes member
Read our full review of IPVanish.
6. PrivateVPN
Website: www.PrivateVPN.com
PrivateVPN is an effective tool for accessing services such as CNBC, Hulu, and even Netflix. While it doesn’t have as many servers as other options on the list, it does provide US servers in around 12 cities. Plus, one subscription affords users ten simultaneous connections.
As with the other options on this list, IPv6 and DNS leak protection protect user data through this service. PrivateVPN stores no logs and secures your internet connection, making use of the high-level 256-bit AES encryption standard. Bitcoin payments are accepted.
If you need assistance setting up your software or troubleshooting, live chat support is available through the website. PrivateVPN provides remote control support in case customers need an extra pair of eyes to assist with setting up or using the service.
You can install and use PrivateVPN with macOS, Windows, iOS, and Android devices. For Linux systems and routers, manual configuration is necessary.
GOOD SPEEDS:PrivateVPN is a good family choice. Good for CNBC. Allows up to 10 devices on the same account. Could do with having more servers and lacks 24/7 support. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Servers in 12 US cities achieve good streaming speeds
Gaining popularity for their growing list of sites, they unblock
Swedish-based provider with a strict no-logs policy
Support staff only operate during European business hours
Apps lack some advanced features
Read our full review of PrivateVPN.
7. Private Internet Access
unblocks CNBCTested Jan 2023
Website: www.PrivateInternetAccess.com
Private Internet Access stands out for offering servers in far more US locations than most VPNs. Indeed, servers are spread across over 50 US cities, including New York and Los Angeles. This makes it easier to find a fast server closer to your physical location. Private Internet Access (PIA) also makes our list of the fastest VPNs. It averaged 94 Mbps and, as such, you’ll easily be able to stream CNBC (or indeed Netflix) lag and buffer-free.
With just one PIA account, you can connect up to 10 devices at the same time. You’ll also benefit from its very strong security offering consisting of 256-bit AES encryption, DNS leak protection, and a kill switch. It operates a very strict no-logs policy. Unlike some VPNs, it doesn’t even keep connection logs. This makes PIA a particularly good choice for the privacy-conscious user.
50+ US SERVER LOCATIONS:Private Internet Access offers plenty of server locations in the US. More than fast enough for streaming CNBC without performance problems. Secure up to 10 devices. Strict no-logs policy. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Servers in more than 50 US locations
Connect up to 10 devices at once
Strict no-logs policy for true privacy protection
Can’t unblock some popular streaming services
Doesn’t work in China
Read our full PrivateVPN review.
How we find the best VPNs for CNBC
For a provider to make our list of the best VPNs for CNBC, it not only had to play a stream after connecting to a US server, but it also had to pass our rigorous VPN testing, detailed in our VPN testing methodology guide.
To outline some of the key areas we focus on when selecting the best VPNs for services like CNBC, check out the list below.
- US server locations: Most importantly, the VPN you use to watch CNBC needs to have server locations in the United States. Accessing CNBC from elsewhere without a VPN will result in region-block errors.
- Speed: To watch CNBC from the US or abroad, you need a fast and reliable VPN connection. We perform a series of speed tests to ensure you don’t run into frustrating buffering when you’re ready to start watching.
- Encryption standards: To prevent your information from leaking outside your VPN connection, we only select providers that use modern encryption standards that typically offer AES 256-bit encryption.
- No logs: ISPs record your online activities when you don’t have the privacy of a VPN, so the VPN provider must offer a zero-logs policy to ensure they don’t log your activities to pass on to government officials.
- Customer care: When things don’t go as planned, it’s essential to get help when needed. The providers we select offer live chat or email support, so someone is available to help any time of the day.
How to watch CNBC without cable
If you are looking to watch CNBC without cable, you’ll be happy to know there 5 services that offer CNBC live streaming. If there’s something specific you’re after on CNBC, you may be able to make the most of a free trial however, for long-term access, you’ll either need to sign in with your cable provider or choose one of the services below.
Here are the streaming services you can use to watch CNBC without cable:
- fuboTV
- Sling TV
- Hulu with Live TV
- YouTube TV
- AT&T TV Now
On-demand content such as Jay Leno’s Garage, The Profit, and Billion Dollar Buyer is also featured. The great thing about CNBC is that even if you don’t have a cable TV subscription, you can still enjoy free content, such as podcasts like Fortt Knox with Jon Fortt.
Disclaimer: Comparitech does not encourage or condone using a VPN to stream content illegally. We advise researching your country’s laws and the terms of use for specific streaming platforms before using a VPN to access content.
In the NBC Universal Terms of Service, it says that it “makes no representation that content on the Site or online services are appropriate or available for use outside the United States” and that “if you choose to access the online services from other locations, you do so on your own initiative and at your own risk.”
None of the above is particularly concerning and there’s no record of user accounts being suspended due to the use of VPNs. As such, you should be able to use a VPN with CNBC without issue.