Comedy Central has lots of high-profile shows, but it’s only available to viewers in the United States. If you want to watch Comedy Central from the UK, Canada, Europe, or anywhere else in the world, your best bet is to connect using a Virtual Private Network (VPN).
VPNs can connect you to servers in different locations, and make it appear that you’re located in your chosen locale. For instance, connecting to a US server unlocks most American-only streaming platforms, such as US Netflix, HBO, and more. If you try to access Comedy Central from outside the US without a VPN, chances are you’ll end up with an error: “Sorry ’bout that. This video is not available from your location”.
Aside from helping you unblock geo-restricted content, VPNs encrypt your traffic, preventing it from being read by any outside observers, including your internet service provider or network administrators.
The problem is that there are all kinds of VPN services, each tailored to different tasks. Plus, the performance of each service differs, so it can be difficult to accurately compare one service to another.
We go into some detail on each of the VPNs we have chosen for this list, but if you can’t stick through right to the end of the article, here’s a summary of our top VPNs for Comedy Central:
- NordVPN Our #1 choice for Comedy Central. Veteran provider with more than 1,500 servers in the US. Seamlessly unblocks Comedy Central. Offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Surfshark Highly versatile budget VPN with impressive unblocking potential, powerful security features, and no connection limit whatsoever.
- ExpressVPN A vast array of servers in the US and around the globe. Streaming speeds are solid. The apps are easy to use and secure.
- CyberGhost Some of the fastest streaming servers we have tested. Easy to use apps are secure and private.
- IPVanish Speeds are great for streaming Comedy Central from abroad in high quality, plus strong security and a no-logs policy.
- PrivateVPN Increasingly popular service with good unblocking abilities and fast speeds. Could do with more servers.
- Hotspot Shield A US VPN that provides exceptionally fast speeds thanks to its proprietary VPN protocol. A choice of servers across the US, Italy, and in 80 countries.
To find the best services for watching Comedy Central, we looked for VPNs with the following qualities:
- Numerous servers in the US
- High speeds and stable connections
- Capable of unlocking Comedy Central and similar streaming services
- Robust security and strong encryption
- Minimal logging, or ideally, no logging whatsoever
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 their content.
How to watch Comedy Central online abroad
You may be surprised to learn that setting up a VPN for the first time is a simple process. Below we’ll outline the basic steps you need to follow so you can watch Comedy Central from abroad.
Here’s how to watch Comedy Central online from anywhere:
- Sign up with a suitable VPN provider, we recommend NordVPN.
- Download the appropriate VPN app for your device.
- Log in to the VPN app and then select a server within the US.
- Wait for the connection to be established.
- Next, log in with your cable provider on the Comedy Central website (you can watch some free content without logging in) or log in to your streaming service and select the Comedy Central live stream.
- That’s it! You should now be able to watch Comedy Central abroad. If you’re still having issues try clearing your browser’s cache and cookies then reloading the page.
The best VPNs for Comedy Central
Here is our list of the best VPNs for Comedy Central:
1. NordVPN
Jan 2023
Unblocks Comedy CentralTested Jan 2023
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- Background
- FireTV
Website: www.NordVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
NordVPN has more than 1,700 servers in the US. All of these are optimized for high-definition streaming, meaning there’ll be no lag, stuttering, or buffering, assuming your internet connection is fast enough. It can unblock popular platforms like Comedy Central, Netflix, HBO, and Sling TV.
This service comes with built-in anti-malware features and an ad-blocker. With 256-bit encryption, DNS leak protection, and a highly configurable kill switch, NordVPN keeps your data safe at all times. This service can be paid for with bitcoin and has a no-logs policy.
NordVPN has apps for macOS, iOS, Linux, Windows, and Android. Supported routers require manual installation.
BEST VPN FOR COMEDY CENTRAL:NordVPN is our first choice. A good all-rounder that works well with Comedy Central. Strong security features and allows up to 6 devices to be used simultaneously from one account. Includes a risk-free 30-day money back guarantee.
Pros:
- Over 1,700 servers in the US, will access most geo-blocked content from abroad
- Great choice for streaming and downloading
- Apps provide high-grade levels of security and privacy
- Can connect 6 devices at once with the basic package
- Around-the-clock live chat available
Cons:
- Apps can connect to server locations, but you can’t choose individual or specific servers
Our score:
Read our full NordVPN review.
2. Surfshark
unblocks comedy centralTested Jan 2023
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.Surfshark.com
This service’s security features don’t disappoint, either. There’s a customizable kill switch, powerful encryption, and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks, plus a built-in ad-blocker and malware-scanner. As Surfshark doesn’t keep any logs at all, your privacy is in good hands. If you’d like, you can pay in Bitcoin, Ripple, or Ethereum. 24/7 support is available over live chat and email.
Surfshark users have the choice of Android, macOS, Windows, iOS, and Linux apps. You can also follow manual setup instructions to get this VPN working with select home routers.
BEST BUDGET OPTION:Surfshark doesn’t compromise on security, privacy, or unblocking ability. Despite this, though, it remains user-friendly and affordable. Other key characteristics include solid speeds, a 30-day money-back guarantee, and a total lack of connection or bandwidth limits.
High speeds and unlimited bandwidth
Strong unblocking potential
Impressive security offering
Keeps no logs
Lets users protect all of their devices at once
Still has a few slower servers
Read our full Surfshark review.
3. ExpressVPN
Unblocks Comedy CentralTested Jan 2023
Website: www.ExpressVPN.com
With 256-bit encryption, perfect forward secrecy, and DNS leak protection, you can keep your activities private at all times. There’s a built-in kill switch that stops all traffic when the VPN connection drops. ExpressVPN doesn’t log any of your information, accepts bitcoin payments, and has its own .onion site, meaning you can register almost completely anonymously.
This service has dedicated apps for Windows, Android, macOS, iOS, and Linux. Selected routers are also supported but must be manually configured.
POWERFUL YET EASY TO USE:ExpressVPN is great for streaming. Reliably unblocks Comedy Central as well as many other popular services. Exceptional speeds for buffer-free HD viewing along with total security and privacy. 30-day money back guarantee.
Operates servers in over 20 US cities, easily unblocks Comedy Central and most streaming sites from abroad
Fast HD streaming and no buffering from most test locations abroad
Won’t be beat on privacy and security
24/7 live chat has you back on any technical issues
Higher monthly cost than some if its rivals
Could provide more control over advanced settings
Read our full review of ExpressVPN.
4. CyberGhost
Website: www.Cyberghost.com
Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS
CyberGhost allows you to choose the best server for a given task. These tasks include browsing anonymously, torrenting safely, and unlocking sites like Comedy Central, Hulu, and Showtime. With more than 200 fast servers in the US, CyberGhost enables you to stream as much as you like, in the highest quality available.
This provider aims to make staying safe online as easy as possible. It protects against DNS, IPv6, and port forwarding leaks. It blocks ads and even prevents malware from being installed. CyberGhost uses 256-bit encryption, automatic HTTPS redirection, and a kill switch, so your data is never exposed. No personally identifiable information is collected. Live support can help you resolve any issues that may arise.
CyberGhost offers apps for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. It can be manually installed on Linux platforms and selected internet routers.
BEGINNERS’ CHOICE:CyberGhost has a simple set up. Good option if you are looking for a fast, reliable connection and an easy-to-use interface. Can struggle with unblocking some popular streaming sites. 45-day money back guarantee.
Operates more than 730 servers in various cities throughout the US
A budget provider with very fast streaming servers
Strong privacy and security enabled by default
Very easy to use
Power-users would prefer more advanced configuration options
Read our full CyberGhost review.
5. IPVanish
Website: www.IPVanish.com
IPVanish offers above average speeds and has over 650 servers in the US, in 18 different states. As these servers are owned and maintained by IPVanish, issues can be resolved more quickly than with many of its rivals. It can unblock lots of streaming services including Comedy Central, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and CW TV.
This service uses 256-bit encryption, but that’s just the beginning of its security measures. A kill switch, OpenVPN obfuscation, timed IP address switching, and local traffic blocking features are also available. IPVanish does not log any details of your online activities. This provider offers unlimited simultaneous connections, making it possible to protect an entire household of devices with a single account.
LARGE NETWORK:IPVanish is easy to use. Offers strong privacy and security with a large 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.
650 US servers are great for unblocking US sites at HD speeds
Above-average encryption and privacy protections in place
Works well with Kodi
Unlimited simultaneous connections
Apps don’t work in China
Doesn’t unblock Netflix or Hulu
Read our full IPVanish review.
6. PrivateVPN
Website: www.PrivateVPN.com
PrivateVPN uses 256-bit encryption, keeps no logs, and provides a kill switch. It protects against IPv6 and DNS leaks too, meaning your activities are never visible. This VPN offers 24/7 chat support, and if you allow them to, the staff can connect to your computer to fix problems. With six simultaneous connections permitted, PrivateVPN allows you to protect all of your devices at once.
This service has dedicated Windows, Android, macOS, and iOS apps. It can be manually configured to work with Linux systems and supported wireless routers.
GOOD SPEEDS:PrivateVPN is a good family choice. Allows up to 6 devices on the same account. Could do with having more servers and lacks 24/7 support. 30-day money back guarantee.
Servers in 9 US cities unblock Comedy Central, usually in HD
Growing popularity for their growing list of sites they unblock
Swedish based provider with a strict no-logs policy
Support staff operate during European business hours
Newer provider, still growing its network, currently has fewer servers than other networks on this list
Apps lack some advanced features like ad blocking
Read our full PrivateVPN review.
7. Hotspot Shield
Website: www.Hotspotshield.com
Editor’s Note: Hotspot Shield is owned by Pango, Comparitech’s parent company.
Hotspot Shield is a US-based VPN provider that has servers in 80 countries, including Italy and the USA. This makes it great for accessing geo-restricted services securely, including Comedy Central. Plus, Hotspot Shield is incredibly fast thanks to its proprietary Catapult Hydra protocol. This ensures that you can stream comedies from anywhere without buffering issues.
Admittedly, this VPN may not be everybody’s cup of tea when it comes to gaining online privacy. Its base in the USA could expose it to warrants and gag orders from US authorities. And while it keeps no usage logs, it does store some connection logs alongside IPs.
That said, this VPN provides the encryption you need to remain safe on public Wi-Fi, and it handles your DNS requests to ensure your ISP never knows what you are doing online. Plus, Hotspot Shield provides the privacy you need to stream Comedy Central or other services that are blocked at work – without your employer ever finding out. Plus, this VPN also works with Netflix, Prime Video, Hulu, and iPlayer.
Apps are available for all popular platforms (Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS) and you can test the VPN risk-free thanks to its 45-day money-back guarantee.
SUPER FAST CONNECTIONS:Servers in 80 countries. Apps for all platforms. Works to securely access Hulu, Comedy Central, Sling TV, HBO Max, and Netflix. Encryption and a kill switch. 45-day money-back guarantee.
Servers that work to stream Comedy Central anywhere
Works in China
Fast enough for lag-free 4K streaming
Servers in over 80 countries
No usage logs
Based in the US
Keeps some connections logs
Read our full Hotspot Shield review.
Can I use a free VPN to watch Comedy Central?
While numerous free VPN services are available, we recommend avoiding them for several reasons. Firstly, free VPNs don’t usually have the same network infrastructure as premium services. This leads to slower download speeds, which in turn leads to stuttering video and longer buffering times.
It’s important to understand that free VPNs are businesses. They’re not charging users for services, but they have to make money somehow. Some insert ads into the pages you visit, while others track your activities and sell the resulting user profile to third parties.
Unfortunately, free VPNs have a track record of shady behavior. Just last year, a study found that almost 20% of free Android VPNs didn’t actually encrypt their users’ traffic. There have also been cases where free VPN services installed malware and even sold their users’ bandwidth to be used in botnets.
How to watch Comedy Central online without cable
Once you’ve set up a VPN you can watch Comedy Central from anywhere by logging in with your cable provider. If you don’t want to log in with a cable provider there is a range of over-the-top streaming services that allow you to watch Comedy Central live. Below is the list of services you can use to watch Comedy Central.
- Philo
- Sling TV
- fuboTV
- AT&T TV Now
- Youtube
If you don’t want to pay for a streaming service there is some content available on Comedy Central for free. This is a selection of recently aired episodes as well as clips of older shows.
Your final option to watch Comedy Central online for free is to sign up with one of the previously mentioned streaming services and make the most of their free trial. The free trials usually only last 7 days so you’ll have to binge any show you want to watch at this time, and then cancel to avoid being charged.
Comedy Central VPN testing methodology
There are many VPNs on the market to choose from, but they are not all worth your time and money. Huge numbers of services have apps that lack the basic privacy and security features you need. Some suffer from leaks that render them useless for privacy purposes, while others harbor insecurities or invasive policies that make them a huge risk to your online health.
To ensure we only recommend services that can be trusted, we always check each VPN’s privacy policy ourselves. We look for services that never track what you do online, and that has military-grade encryption to protect you against eavesdroppers, hackers, and government snoops.
We also test each VPN’s servers to see what kind of speeds they provide. This allows us to recommend services capable of unblocking sought-after platforms in HD without any buffering. Finally, we check that the VPN can work to securely access the services you are interested in. This includes services like Hulu, iPlayer, HBO, Disney+, and Netflix.
For more information about how we recommend VPNs please read our methodology article. Below is a list of other features we looked for when curating this list of VPNs for Comedy Central:
- Reliable apps for all platforms that have advanced features like a kill switch and obfuscation.
- A large, global server network capable of fast speeds to stream in HD, play games, and make video calls.
- Robust enough privacy features and policies to allow you to torrent and do other online tasks privately.
- Italian and US servers that work with Comedy Central and the popular online streaming services that carry it.
What shows are on Comedy Central?
Comedy Central offers a wide selection of shows. Below, we’ve listed some of the most popular:
- Lip Sync Battle
- Takeshi’s Castle
- Broad City
- The Goldbergs
- Ren and Stimpy
- Key and Peele
- South Park
- The Colbert Report
- The Office
- That ‘70s Show