YouTube Shorts, a short-form video feature introduced by YouTube, has quickly gained immense popularity, offering users an engaging platform to create and share videos of 60 seconds or less.
However, access to YouTube Shorts may be restricted in certain regions due to government censorship, workplace policies, or school restrictions. In such situations, using a reliable VPN becomes an essential tool to bypass these limitations.
A VPN allows you to change your virtual location, enabling unrestricted access to YouTube Shorts regardless of regional restrictions.
In this article, we’ll explore the best VPNs for accessing YouTube Shorts, their features, pricing, and why they are essential for bypassing restrictions. Additionally, we’ll answer common questions about using VPNs for YouTube.
Why Do You Need a VPN for YouTube Shorts?
In some countries, YouTube is either entirely blocked or selectively restricted. For instance:
- China: YouTube is banned under the “Great Firewall.”
- North Korea and Iran: YouTube access is heavily censored.
- Schools and Workplaces: Many institutions block YouTube to prevent distractions.
A VPN allows you to bypass these restrictions by connecting to a server in a country where YouTube is accessible.
YouTube occasionally rolls out new features, including Shorts-related updates, in specific regions before making them globally available. A VPN lets you connect to these regions and access such features early.
If you’re traveling to countries where YouTube or specific features like Shorts are blocked, a VPN ensures uninterrupted access while keeping your data secure.
Best VPNs for Accessing YouTube Shorts
Here’s a detailed look at the top VPNs for unblocking YouTube Shorts in restricted regions:
1. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is a top-rated VPN known for its blazing-fast speeds and excellent ability to bypass censorship. It’s a reliable choice for accessing YouTube Shorts in countries where YouTube is blocked.
Features:
- Servers: Over 3,000 servers in 94 countries.
- Speed: Ultra-fast servers optimized for streaming.
- Security: AES-256 encryption, DNS leak protection, and a strict no-logs policy.
- Unblocking Power: Easily bypasses YouTube restrictions in highly censored regions like China and Iran.
- Device Compatibility: Available on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and smart TVs.
- Additional Features: Split tunneling, kill switch, and private DNS.
Pricing:
- Monthly Plan: $12.95/month
- 6-Month Plan: $9.99/month
- Annual Plan: $8.32/month
Why Choose ExpressVPN? ExpressVPN’s speed and reliability make it ideal for watching YouTube Shorts in HD without buffering.
2. NordVPN
NordVPN is another excellent choice for unblocking YouTube Shorts, offering a combination of robust security features and a vast server network.
Features:
- Servers: Over 5,800 servers in 60 countries.
- Speed: High-speed connections ideal for video streaming.
- Security: AES-256 encryption, Double VPN for extra security, and CyberSec to block ads.
- Unblocking Power: Successfully bypasses restrictions in countries with strict internet censorship.
- Device Compatibility: Supports up to 6 simultaneous connections on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux.
- Additional Features: Obfuscated servers for accessing YouTube in restrictive regions.
Pricing:
- Monthly Plan: $12.99/month
- 1-Year Plan: $4.99/month
- 2-Year Plan: $3.49/month
Why Choose NordVPN? NordVPN’s obfuscated servers and excellent security features make it a reliable option for accessing YouTube Shorts safely and privately.
3. Surfshark
Surfshark is a budget-friendly VPN with unlimited device connections, making it a great option for families or users with multiple devices.
Features:
- Servers: 3,200+ servers in 100 countries.
- Speed: Fast and consistent speeds for streaming YouTube Shorts in HD.
- Security: AES-256 encryption, a no-logs policy, and CleanWeb to block ads and trackers.
- Unblocking Power: Easily unblocks YouTube Shorts in restrictive regions.
- Device Compatibility: Unlimited simultaneous connections on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and more.
- Additional Features: MultiHop, kill switch, and Camouflage Mode to hide VPN usage.
Pricing:
- Monthly Plan: $12.95/month
- 1-Year Plan: $3.99/month
- 2-Year Plan: $2.49/month
Why Choose Surfshark? Surfshark’s affordability and unlimited connections make it perfect for budget-conscious users who want unrestricted YouTube access.
4. CyberGhost
CyberGhost is a beginner-friendly VPN with a massive server network and streaming-optimized servers.
Features:
- Servers: Over 9,000 servers in 91 countries.
- Speed: Optimized servers for streaming ensure smooth video playback.
- Security: AES-256 encryption, automatic kill switch, and a no-logs policy.
- Unblocking Power: Excellent for bypassing YouTube restrictions.
- Device Compatibility: Supports up to 7 simultaneous connections.
- Additional Features: Ad blocker, streaming-optimized servers, and NoSpy servers for enhanced privacy.
Pricing:
- Monthly Plan: $12.99/month
- 1-Year Plan: $6.99/month
- 2-Year Plan: $2.19/month
Why Choose CyberGhost? CyberGhost’s intuitive interface and streaming-optimized servers make it ideal for beginners looking to unblock YouTube Shorts.
5. ProtonVPN
ProtonVPN is a privacy-focused VPN that offers both free and premium plans, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
Features:
- Servers: Over 3,000 servers in 68 countries.
- Speed: High-speed servers for seamless streaming.
- Security: AES-256 encryption, Secure Core for extra protection, and a no-logs policy.
- Unblocking Power: Works effectively for unblocking YouTube Shorts.
- Device Compatibility: Supports up to 10 simultaneous connections.
- Additional Features: Kill switch, NetShield to block ads, and Tor over VPN.
Pricing:
- Free Plan: Limited servers and medium speeds.
- Basic Plan: $4.99/month
- Plus Plan: $9.99/month
- Visionary Plan: $29.99/month
Why Choose ProtonVPN? ProtonVPN’s free plan and strong focus on privacy make it a great choice for users on a budget.
Conclusion
A VPN is an essential tool for accessing YouTube Shorts in blocked regions. Whether you’re dealing with government censorship, workplace restrictions, or traveling to a region with limited access, VPNs like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, CyberGhost, and ProtonVPN provide secure and reliable solutions.
By choosing the right VPN, you can bypass restrictions, enjoy seamless streaming, and protect your privacy while accessing YouTube Shorts anytime, anywhere.
FAQs
Is it legal to use a VPN for YouTube Shorts?
Yes, using a VPN is legal in most countries. However, some regions, like China and North Korea, restrict or ban VPN usage. Always check local laws before using a VPN.
Can I use a free VPN to access YouTube Shorts?
Free VPNs may work, but they often have limitations like slower speeds, data caps, and fewer server options. Premium VPNs like ExpressVPN or Surfshark are more reliable and secure.
Can a VPN unblock other YouTube features?
Yes, a VPN can unblock geo-restricted YouTube content, including region-specific videos and features like YouTube Music or live streams.
How do I choose the best VPN for YouTube Shorts?
Consider factors like server locations, speed, security, device compatibility, and price. ExpressVPN and NordVPN are excellent all-around options.