Are you a fan of German television and movies? If you’re in the US, accessing your favorite German shows and films might seem challenging due to geo-restrictions. But don’t worry! This guide will walk you through the steps on how to watch German TV in the US with a VPN. Doesn’t matter if you’re craving the latest episodes of “Dark” or want to enjoy classic German films like “Goodbye, Lenin!”, we’ve got your back. Let’s explore the world of German TV and discover how to overcome those annoying geographical barriers. With the right tools and information, you can easily enjoy German TV from the comfort of your own home. We’ll explore the best VPN services to help you bypass geo-restrictions, provide step-by-step instructions, and recommend popular German channels and streaming platforms. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of German storytelling.
Quick steps to watch German TV in the USA with a VPN
- Get a premium VPN [Recommended: ExpressVPN]
- Download the VPN app and sign in
- Connect to a server in Germany [Recommended: London]
- Visit German TV and log in to your account
- Start streaming German TV from anywhere
In which countries is German TV available?
German TV refers to the television broadcasting services available in Germany, which include a wide variety of channels and content. The German TV landscape is characterized by a mix of public and private broadcasters, offering programming in genres such as news, entertainment, drama, sports, and cultural shows. Public broadcasters like ARD and ZDF are known for their high-quality news and educational content, funded by a license fee, while private channels such as RTL and ProSieben cater to popular entertainment and reality TV. German TV also includes regional channels that provide local news and cultural programming, making it a diverse and comprehensive source of information and entertainment for viewers in Germany. Additionally, many channels offer content in the German language, making it an important part of the country’s cultural identity. However, due to geographical restrictions and licensing agreements, you won’t be able to watch German TV if you live in any other country.
Can I watch German TV in the USA?
German TV is not available in the USA. But, you can watch German TV in the USA, but it requires a bit of technical know-how. German TV channels are geo-restricted, meaning they can only be accessed from Germany. They are geo-restricted due to licensing agreements and copyright laws. By limiting access to Germany, they ensure compliance with these agreements and protect the interests of content creators and distributors. If you’re interested in watching German TV but live in the United States, you’re out of luck for now. Trying to watch German TV from another country will result in this error message:
Error: “Leider wird kein videoformat von deinem gerät unterstützt.”
But there’s good news! A trustworthy and high-quality VPN service can help you watch German TV smoothly in the US, bypassing these geographical restrictions.
How can I sign up to watch German TV in the USA?
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to sign up to watch German TV in the USA using a VPN:
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To watch German TV in the USA smoothly, you’ll need a VPN with lots of servers in Germany. A great option is ExpressVPN.
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Downloading and installing the software is a breeze. Once it’s up and running, simply connect to a recommended German server, like in Frankfurt.
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With your VPN active, head over to the website or app of your chosen German channel, like ZDF or ProSieben.
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Log in to your existing account or create a new one (if needed) and voila! You’re ready to stream German TV from the US without any problems.
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What is the cost of watching German TV in the US?
The cost of watching German TV in the US primarily depends on the VPN service you choose. Most German channels themselves are free to watch, but you’ll need a VPN to bypass geo-restrictions. VPN services vary in price, with options ranging from budget-friendly to premium plans. Additionally, some VPN providers offer free trials or money-back guarantees, allowing you to test their service before committing to a subscription. Once you have a VPN, accessing German TV channels is generally free, although some premium content or additional features might require a separate subscription.
Best VPNs to watch German TV in the US
Have you ever wished you could enjoy the best of German TV right here in the US? Well, you can! A VPN is your ticket to unlocking a world of German shows and movies. With a VPN, you can easily change your virtual location to Germany and access popular German channels like ZDF and ARD. It’s like having a front-row seat to German culture and entertainment. Beyond the big names, there’s a whole universe of German TV waiting to be explored. With a VPN, you can easily switch between different channels to find your perfect match. So, grab your popcorn, choose your favorite German show, and let the VPN transport you to the heart of German entertainment.
ExpressVPN – Our Recommended VPN
ExpressVPN is your key to unlocking the world of German television. By connecting to one of their servers located in Germany, you effectively change your virtual location, making it appear as if you are streaming from within the country. This clever trick bypasses the geographic restrictions imposed by German TV channels and platforms, granting you unrestricted access to their content. Whether you’re a fan of gripping dramas, thought-provoking documentaries, or the latest reality shows, ExpressVPN ensures a smooth streaming experience. With its vast network of high-speed servers, you can enjoy your favorite German programs without buffering or interruptions. Additionally, ExpressVPN prioritizes user privacy and security, safeguarding your online activities while you indulge in your German TV binge. Beyond simply accessing German content, ExpressVPN offers the freedom to explore a diverse range of channels and platforms, like Xumo and Dutch TV. From popular broadcasters like ARD and ZDF to niche streaming services, you have a world of entertainment at your fingertips. With ExpressVPN, you can immerse yourself in the captivating world of German television from the comfort of your own home.
- ExpressVPN provides an extensive server network spanning over 3,000 servers in 105 nations.
- Indulge in uninterrupted German TV binge-watching sessions thanks to the Media Streamer feature.
- For optimal savings, select from various subscription options: monthly ($12.95), yearly ($4.99 per month), or a 2-year plan.
- Link up to 8 devices concurrently, covering smartphones, computers, tablets, and Fire Sticks.

Pros
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- They value your privacy and explain everything they do clearly.
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- You can trust their strong security to keep your information safe.
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- Enjoy watching shows on German TV without any interruptions.
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- Use their easy apps to watch German TV on any device you like.
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- They follow strict privacy rules so that you can feel even more confident.
Cons
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- Even though ExpressVPN costs more than other options, it offers top-notch service.
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- You can use it on 8 devices simultaneously, perfect for sharing with loved ones.
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- Although the Apple TV app is good, we always strive to improve it.
NordVPN – Biggest Server Network

NordVPN is a valuable tool for anyone wanting to enjoy German television outside Germany. This service creates a virtual private network, masking your location and making it appear as if you’re browsing from within Germany. This clever trick unlocks a world of German TV shows, movies, and news that would otherwise be inaccessible. With a vast network of servers, including numerous options in Germany, NordVPN ensures a smooth streaming experience without compromising on speed or reliability. Beyond the technical aspects, NordVPN offers a layer of security and privacy while you enjoy your favorite German programs. Your online activities are shielded from prying eyes, giving you peace of mind as you explore the diverse landscape of German television. Whether you’re a fan of gripping dramas, thought-provoking documentaries, or light-hearted entertainment, NordVPN can be your key to unlocking the full potential of German TV. By choosing NordVPN, you’re not just gaining access to content; you’re investing securely and efficiently to experience German culture and entertainment. With user-friendly applications for various devices, setting up NordVPN is a straightforward process, allowing you to quickly immerse yourself in the world of German television.
- With over 5,300 servers in 59+ countries, NordVPN lets you say goodbye to buffering and hello to smooth streaming, no matter where you are.
- Stream German TV can be accessed with NordVPN on your phone, laptop, tablet, or even your smart TV. NordVPN lets you connect up to 6 devices simultaneously to share the love with friends and family.
- NordVPN doesn’t compromise. It offers blazing-fast speeds for uninterrupted streaming while protecting your connection.
- NordVPN offers flexible plans to fit your needs, starting at just $12.99 monthly, with even better deals for longer subscriptions.

Pros
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- Forget about those annoying pauses while you’re watching German TV, which was accessed with NordVPN! Now, you can enjoy your favorite shows and movies without any interruptions.
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- Make the most of your German TV access with NordVPN time with easy-to-use features that make watching a breeze.
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- You won’t have any technical troubles here. Thanks to our user-friendly interface, navigating through the VPN is super simple.
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- Rest easy knowing that we prioritize your privacy and security.
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- And for those who take security seriously, we offer extra options to keep your information safe and sound.
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- Say farewell to those annoyingly choppy streams and welcome a smooth German TV, accessed with the NordVPN experience.
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- Pick the payment method that suits you best, with plenty of convenient options available.
Cons
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- The pricing plans are confusing
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- Limited to 6 simultaneous connections
Surfshark – Affordable VPN

Surfshark can be your key to unlocking German TV right here in the US. With a vast network of servers spread across Germany, this VPN service can make it seem like you’re enjoying your favorite German shows from the comfort of your own home in Berlin or Munich. Whether you’re a fan of gripping dramas, informative news programs, or lighthearted entertainment, Surfshark can help you access a wide array of German channels and streaming platforms. Setting up Surfshark is straightforward. Once installed on your device, simply connect to a German server and you’re ready to explore the world of German television. No complicated configurations or technical expertise is required. Surfshark offers user-friendly apps for various devices, ensuring a seamless experience across your computers, smartphones, and smart TVs. Beyond granting access to German content, Surfshark prioritizes your online privacy and security. With robust encryption and a no-logs policy, you can enjoy your favorite German shows with peace of mind. Additionally, Surfshark allows unlimited simultaneous connections, so you can share the VPN with family and friends without any restrictions.
- With a massive network of over 3,200 servers across 100+ countries, Surfshark easily lets you access German TV. There is no buffering, just smooth sailing for your next binge-watch.
- Enjoy German TV on all your devices at the same time! Surfshark allows unlimited connections so the whole family can catch up on their favorite shows on their phone, laptop, tablet, or even a Fire Stick. Movie night, they just got a whole lot easier!
- Surfshark takes your privacy seriously. Their strict no-logs policy means you can stream without worrying about your data being tracked.
- Surfshark offers flexible monthly subscription plans starting at just $15.54. They also have great discounts for annual and 2-year plans so that you can save even more!

Pros
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- Select a bigger plan and get the cheapest way to watch your favorite shows and movies.
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- Stop arguing over who gets to watch! This service is great for families or people who like to watch wherever they are. It can be used on multiple devices simultaneously.
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- This service focuses on keeping your information safe. You can feel confident watching German TV, knowing your data is always secure.
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- This service offers many extra features, making your German TV experience more enjoyable than regular streaming.
Cons
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- Some people might find it confusing to understand how much they need to pay and what their options are when choosing a subscription.
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- The different subscription plans might be too complicated for people who prefer simple choices.
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- There’s space for making the Linux interface better.
What devices can I use to watch German TV?
You can watch German TV on the following streaming devices:
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- iOS devices
- Android devices
- Firestick
- Roku
- Apple TV
- Smart TV
How can I watch German TV in the USA on Roku?
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- Get a reliable VPN subscription, like ExpressVPN.
- Ensure your router supports VPN connections.
- Follow ExpressVPN’s guide to install the VPN on your router.
- Select a German server on your router’s ExpressVPN settings.
- Connect your Roku device to the same Wi-Fi network as your router.
- Open the German TV app (like ZDF, ARD, or RTL+) on your Roku.
- Start streaming your favorite German shows and movies.
How can I watch German TV in the USA on Apple TV?
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- Subscribe to a reliable VPN service, eg. ExpressVPN.
- Find and install the ExpressVPN app on your Apple TV.
- Log in to your ExpressVPN account on the Apple TV app.
- Select a German server location from ExpressVPN’s list.
- Launch the app of the German TV channel you want to watch (e.g., ZDF, ARD).
- Start streaming your favorite German TV shows and movies.
How can I watch German TV in the USA on Smart TV?
How can I remove German TV streaming errors?
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- Ensure your internet is working well: If your internet is slow or not stable, you might have trouble watching shows. Connect your device to strong Wi-Fi or plug it into the internet with a cable. You can also try turning off and then on your router or modem to improve the internet.
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- Close the apps you don’t need: If you have many open apps, they might use up your device’s power and cause problems with watching German TV. Before you start watching, close any apps you’re not using.
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- Restart German TV app: Sometimes, the app needs a fresh start. Close the German TV app completely and then open it again.
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- Update German TV app: Make sure you have the newest version of the German TV app. Older versions might have problems that the newer ones fix. Look for updates in your device’s app store.
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- Restart your device: Turning your device off and on can fix small problems preventing you from watching shows.
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- Check if German TV is having issues: Sometimes, German TV itself has technical problems. You can see if there are any issues on their website or social media.
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- Reinstall the German TV app: If none of the other steps work, try deleting and installing the app again. This can fix any broken parts of the app.
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- Talk to German TV support: If you still can’t watch shows after trying everything else, contact German TV’s customer support. They can help you more if you tell them what error message you’re getting.
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What to watch on German TV
Top Shows on German TV
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- Biohackers
- Freud
- Sleeping Dog
- Oktoberfest 1900
- The Same Sky
- Babylon Berlin
- The Empress
- New Heights
- Queer Eye Germany
- Murder by the Lake
Top Movies on German TV
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- John Wick: Chapter 4
- All Quiet on the Western Front
- Blood & Gold
- Faraway
- Sun and Concrete
- Perfect Addiction
- Into the Beat
- Isi & Ossi
- Army of Thieves
- Rock My Heart
FAQs
Why do I need a VPN to watch German TV in the US?
Can I watch German TV for free?
Many German TV channels offer free streaming. However, you’ll still need a VPN to access them from the US. Some channels might require a subscription for premium content.Is it legal to use a VPN to watch German TV?
Can I use a VPN on multiple devices?
What if I encounter buffering issues while watching German TV?
Buffering can be caused by slow internet speeds, network congestion, or a weak VPN connection. Try connecting to a different German server, closing other applications, and checking your internet connection.Conclusion
And there you have it! With a VPN, you can now enjoy the best of German television right here in the US. Whether you’re a fan of gripping dramas, informative news programs, or lighthearted comedies, the world of German TV is now at your fingertips. If you have any questions about using a VPN to access German content, feel free to reach out to us. We’re always happy to help.