Israelis have access to a variety of local TV channels, but many are drawn to the extensive selection offered by American TV shows and streaming services. HBO, The CW, ABC, and Peacock TV host some of the best shows, live sports, and breaking news. Unfortunately, these channels are geo-blocked and only accessible from within the US.
But here’s some good news! A VPN can unlock all these American channels for you in Israel. For those who may not know, a VPN functions like any other app running on your device.
By connecting to a US server, you’ll get a US IP address, giving you instant access to the same TV content as viewers back in the States. Our #1 recommendation to watch US TV shows in Israel would be NordVPN, simply due to the overall stellar experience it offers.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to stream US TV channels in Israel hassle-free. From live sports on ESPN to binge-worthy series on HBO Max, we’ll explain how a VPN works, why it’s a must-have for streaming across borders, and which VPNs are the best for watching American TV in Israel in 2026.
Why You Can’t Access US TV in Israel Without a VPN
Watching US TV from Israel is impossible without the right tools, and that’s because of geo-restrictions. Streaming services like HBO Max, NBC, and Peacock TV have regional licensing agreements, which means they are only available to users inside the United States.
When you try to access these platforms from Israel, your IP address gives away your location, triggering the restriction.
Streaming platforms use these blocks to comply with their content distribution deals. Whether it’s due to legal rights, broadcasting agreements, or ad revenue differences, they limit who can access their content based on geographical regions.
This is where a VPN with servers in the USA comes into play. By connecting to a US-based server, a VPN masks your real IP address with a US one. This tricks the streaming platform into thinking you’re in the United States, allowing you to access all the US content you want.
While there are some workarounds like Smart DNS services or proxies, these options often fail with platforms that have aggressive anti-proxy measures, like Netflix or Hulu.
On top of that, these alternatives don’t offer the same security and privacy protections that a VPN does.
If you’re serious about watching US TV in Israel without interruptions, a VPN is the best and most reliable option.
Best VPNs for Watching American TV in Israel
When it comes to streaming US TV from Israel, the VPN you choose can make or break your experience.
You need a VPN that offers fast speeds, a wide range of US servers, and reliable access to streaming platforms like CBS, NBC, and HBO Max. Below are the best options for unblocking US TV, each offering unique features to enhance your streaming experience:
1. NordVPN
If you’re in Israel and eager to access American TV, NordVPN (considered the best VPN in Israel according to our experts) offers all the features you need for a seamless streaming experience.
Rather than focusing purely on the number of servers, what really stands out is NordVPN’s ability to deliver consistent, buffer-free streams across multiple platforms, including Netflix US, HBO Max, and Hulu.
One of the most valuable features for streaming is SmartPlay technology, which automatically selects the best server to bypass geo-restrictions. This means you can easily enjoy live sports, hit series, or even niche US TV channels without the frustrating “proxy error” message popping up.
In our hands-on tests, NordVPN shined for live streaming, particularly during events on CBS Sports and ESPN. There were no lags, thanks to its use of the NordLynx protocol, which ensures high-speed streaming even during peak times. This is especially important when watching live shows or events where any buffering can ruin the experience.
Finally, one of the great things about NordVPN is its cross-device compatibility. Whether you’re using Fire TV, iOS, Android, or Windows, NordVPN’s apps are intuitive and easy to use. Plus, you can connect up to ten devices simultaneously, making it ideal for households with multiple users streaming US TV at the same time.
Starting at around $3 per month, NordVPN delivers a near-perfect combination of streaming performance and robust security features, making it the top recommendation for accessing US TV shows from Israel.
Pros
- 1,900+ US servers for easy access
- SmartPlay for fast and secure streaming
- Obfuscated servers bypass tough geo-blocks
- High-speed performance with NordLynx protocol
- Excellent security and privacy features
- Works across multiple devices, including routers
Cons
- Server selection is based on city, not specific servers
- The desktop UI feels dated
2. ExpressVPN
When it comes to consistent performance and broad global reach, ExpressVPN stands out.
With 3,000+ servers in over 105 countries, including many in the US, this VPN is a powerhouse for streaming US TV in Israel. Whether you’re accessing Netflix US, Hulu, or even more niche US channels, ExpressVPN offers smooth streaming, even in locations with restrictive internet, like China.
When we tested out ExpressVPN, it offered impressive speeds across multiple servers, making it ideal for buffer-free HD streaming. While some VPNs struggle with maintaining stable speeds during peak times, ExpressVPN delivers consistently when watching live sports, movies, or your favorite TV shows. If you encounter a slow server, the VPN’s 24/7 live chat support is ready to help you switch to a better-performing one so you don’t miss a beat.
A notable feature is MediaStreamer, a Smart DNS service that enhances the VPN’s ability to stream content on devices that don’t natively support VPNs, like smart TVs and gaming consoles. This is especially useful for viewers who want to enjoy US content on the big screen without technical hiccups.
While ExpressVPN is a bit pricier than its competitors at $6 per month, it offers an unmatched balance of speed, security, and ease of use. With a 30-day money-back guarantee, it’s a risk-free investment for those wanting reliable, high-quality streaming from US TV channels in Israel.
Pros
- MediaStreamer for Smart TV streaming
- Consistently fast speeds across all servers
- 24/7 live chat support for quick troubleshooting
- Strong privacy features
- Works even in highly restricted countries
Cons
- Higher cost compared to other VPNs
- No specific labeling for streaming servers
3. Private Internet Access (PIA)
When it comes to streaming US TV in Israel without breaking the bank, Private Internet Access (PIA) is a solid choice. With a staggering 29,000+ servers across 91 countries, including servers in every US state, PIA ensures you’ll always find a fast and reliable connection for streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video.
While testing PIA VPN, we noticed many improvements that allow access to a wide range of streaming sites, including those that typically block VPN traffic. What’s especially unique is that PIA has a server in every single US state, making it perfect if you need to stream local US content, such as live sports or regional news.
Try Private Internet Access Now
While PIA is packed with customization options, its interface may seem overwhelming for VPN beginners. That said, tech-savvy users will love the granular control it offers, including advanced settings like PIACTL for command-line control.
The downside? While PIA offers decent speeds, it’s not the fastest, particularly if you have a high-speed connection over 300 Mbps. If speed is your top priority, a VPN like NordVPN might be a better fit.
Pricing for Private Internet Access is set at about $2 per month, PIA is one of the most affordable VPNs. With a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can test it risk-free.
Pros
- Highly customizable interface
- Fast speeds with WireGuard protocol
- Split tunneling for more control
- Affordable pricing
Cons
- Struggles in countries like China
- App design could be more polished
How to Watch US TV Shows in Israel Using a VPN
To show how easy it is to access US TV from Israel, we’ll be using NordVPN as our example due to its fast speeds and extensive US server network.
Step 1: Sign Up and Download NordVPN
Go to the NordVPN website, choose a subscription, and download the app onto your device—whether it’s a smart TV, laptop, or smartphone.
Step 2: Connect to a US Server
Once installed, open the app and connect to a US-based server. This changes your IP address to a US location, tricking streaming services into thinking you’re in the States.
Step 3: Access a US Streaming Service (Fubo)
Let’s use Fubo as an example. Open Fubo’s website or app, and with your VPN active, you’ll now have unrestricted access to its full library of shows and live content.
Step 4: Stream American TV channels in Israel
With your VPN connected, enjoy seamless US TV shows from Israel without buffering, thanks to NordLynx’s fast speeds.
By following these steps, you’ll easily bypass geo-restrictions to watch your favorite American TV shows anywhere. For example, you won’t have any trouble watching the ABC channel live from abroad.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to stream US TV shows while in Israel, the right VPN makes all the difference. NordVPN stands out with its high-speed performance and SmartPlay technology, making it a top choice for uninterrupted streaming on platforms like Peacock TV.
On the other hand, ExpressVPN offers unbeatable speeds and the MediaStreamer feature, which enhances streaming on devices that don’t support VPNs natively. For those on a budget, Private Internet Access (PIA) offers reliable performance and servers in every US state, though it may not match the speed of its competitors.
Ultimately, the choice depends on your specific needs, whether it’s speed, accessibility on non-VPN devices, or affordability. Each VPN shines in its own way, so choose the one that best suits your lifestyle and streaming preferences, and enjoy your favorite American shows from anywhere in Israel.
FAQs
If you still have a few doubts about how to watch American TV shows live in Israel, here are some of the common queries answered for you.
Will a VPN affect the video quality of live US TV streams?
Video quality largely depends on the VPN’s speed. Services like NordVPN are optimized for streaming, allowing for high-definition video even during live broadcasts. Other VPNs, while stable, might have minor slowdowns in peak hours but are still efficient for standard HD streams.
Can I share my VPN account for streaming US TV across multiple devices?
Yes, most VPNs allow multiple device connections. NordVPN supports up to 10 devices, while PIA offers unlimited device connections, making it convenient for sharing across different platforms like smart TVs, phones, and laptops.
Do I need a US subscription to stream American TV with a VPN?
Yes, a VPN only bypasses the geo-restriction. You’ll still need a valid US subscription for platforms like Hulu or CBS All Access. However, some free US-based streaming services, such as Pluto TV or The CW, don’t require a subscription, just a US IP address, which a VPN can provide.
Is it legal to use a VPN to stream US TV in Israel?
Yes, using a VPN to access US content is legal in Israel.
However, streaming platforms may try to block VPNs from bypassing geo-restrictions. There are no legal repercussions for using VPNs to access content you’ve paid for.