Showtime is a content-rich streaming platform serving American content consumers. However, it is unavailable to viewers outside the US due to licensing laws and geo-blocking. So, watching your favorite Showtime shows while traveling abroad may be a hassle. Luckily, a reliable VPN can help you circumvent these restrictions.
If you’re wondering how to watch Showtime from abroad or enjoy its content without a cable subscription, we can help.
This article discusses several ways to access Showtime, regardless of your location. We will also guide you through the best VPN services for streaming Showtime and tips you must consider before choosing one.
Why do you need a VPN to watch Showtime Outside the US
Like other popular streaming services, Showtime uses geo-blocks to restrict its content in the US. So, you’ll get an error message if you try to access the platform from abroad. Fortunately, you can use a VPN to acquire a US IP address and evade Showtime’s restrictions from anywhere worldwide.
On connecting to a VPN server in the US, it will create an encrypted tunnel and route your internet traffic through it. The internet traffic and IP address Showtime will get will be the VPN’s server’s IP address.
Besides, most VPNs offer optimized servers for streaming, allowing users to enjoy their favorite content in high quality without any buffering or lag. We recommend using ExpressVPN to watch Showtime outside the US. It offers several US servers, along with robust security features.
Best VPNs to watch Showtime outside US
Based on our research and testing, we found five providers to be the best VPNs that work well with Showtime. Here are the best VPNs for Showtime:
1. NordVPN
One of the most well-recognized VPN services with advanced protocols, secure encryption, and fast servers. Its uncompromised unblocking features make it a convenient option for streaming on Showtime.
Has 6,100+ secure VPN servers scattered in over 111 countries
Reliable Threat Protection (malware, tracking, and ad blocker)
Industry standard, most secure encryption available: AES-256
A user-friendly kill switch feature
Split tunneling feature with high functionality
Offers multi-hop VPN for double encryption
Provides seamless Onion over VPN functionality
Ensures that no log is kept
Users can connect up to ten devices simultaneously with each account
A 30-day money-back guarantee with no questions asked
Pros
- Seamlessly unblocks Showtime and other streaming services
- Has Smart-play technology
- Obervers advanced privacy and security features
Cons
- Some servers often have torrenting issues
If you want a VPN provider with an extensive network of servers to unblock Showtime from anywhere, we recommend NordVPN. It has more than 6,100 active servers in 111 countries, with about 2,000 servers in 15 locations in the US. The VPN offers friendly user apps that enable you to stream your favorite TV shows and movies.
NordVPN is fast and consistently works with most streaming services, including Showtime. It’s one of our top VPNs for bypassing geo-restrictions thanks to its Smartplay feature, which combines VPN security benefits like changing your IP address or encrypting your online traffic with Smart DNS.
We tried unblocking Showtime with NordVPN and experienced no issues streaming in 4K and HD. Many movies loaded within seconds and played without interruptions while connected to distant and local servers.
The intriguing thing about this VPN provider is it uses advanced encryption ciphers and cutting-edge tunneling protocols to keep your connection private without forgoing speed.
2. Private Internet Access (PIA)
A robust VPN vendor with unbeatable security features and unbreakable encryption. It is an ideal option if you want to stream Showtime from abroad.
An extensive network of over 25,000 VPN servers available in 82+ countries
Peer to Peer connection supportive servers
Secure connection with reliable encryption; AES 128-bits and 256-bits
Robust protection against malware and adware with in-built MACE
Enforces a policy of zero logs
Runs on RAM-only VPN servers (benefits privacy)
The split tunneling feature works as expected
Boasts a feature-rich kill switch
You can connect up to ten devices at a time
30 days no-questions-asked money-back guarantee
Pros
- An extremely easy-to-use interface with catchy design
- Protects you by uncompromising privacy policy with no logs kept
- Unlimited bandwidth
Cons
- Distant servers exhibit high latency
With a Private Internet Access (PIA) VPN, you can watch Showtime from abroad for as low as $2. Not only is this provider affordable, but it also has impressive speeds for streaming. We could watch 4K and HD-quality videos on multiple servers without lag in our tests.
It’s also a good choice for streaming on Smart TVs. Regardless of your distance from the US, you can be sure to enjoy a relatively stable connection. This provider operates servers in all 50 US states, making it easy to get a US-specific IP address and bypass Showtime restrictions.
However, there are instances where a server location may fail, but you have several options to choose from its 30,000 servers. With its IPv6 leak protection, 256-bit encryption, and a kill switch, you can browse the internet and stream shows safely.
3. ExpressVPN
A rich-featured VPN provider that offers fast speeds, robust security, and a large number of servers. It seamlessly unblocks all major streaming sites, including Showtime.
A network of over 3,000 speedy VPN servers present in 105 different countries
TrustedServer technology (for better security)
Protects connection with reliable AES-256 data encryption
Does not store log of user traffic usage
A split tunneling feature that works as claimed
Has Network Lock (kill switch) feature
Supports Tor over VPN
Peer to peer connection allowed on servers
Allows up to five device connections at once
30-day tested pay-back policy
Pros
- Boasts impressive international speed for HD-quality streaming
- Has Smart DNS and user-friendly apps
- Accepts anonymous payments like cryptocurrency
Cons
- Expensive subscription plans
ExpressVPN is our top pick to watch Showtime from abroad because it has features that make streaming exciting and convenient. It’s swift across all servers and offers easy-to-use apps for Windows, Android, iOS, and other devices.
During our latest testing, we measured an average download speed of 74 Mbps, which makes this VPN provider ideal for buffer-free streaming.
ExpressVPN also has a smart location feature, which connects you to the fastest server based on your location. Thanks to its no-log policy, you can keep your original IP secure to protect your identity. You’ll unlikely experience any IP, DNS, or WebRTC leak when streaming content.
Another outstanding feature of this VPN provider is its Smart DNS (MediaStreamer). This feature enables you to stream showtime movies on devices that don’t have native VPN apps, including Apple TVs and game consoles. Luckily, ExpressVPN’s payment process is simple because it accepts several forms of payment, including cryptocurrencies. Finally, it comes with a 30-day no-risk trial.
4. IPVanish
A decent VPN provider with world-class features and security protocols you can count on. Works great for streaming anonymously.
Offers more than 2,000 VPN servers present in 54 countries worldwide
Peer-to-Peer connection allowed on servers
250GB SugarSync cloud storage
Users’ data traffic is safe by strict no-log policy
A dependable military-grade encryption; AES-256 bits
One account connects an unlimited number of devices at once
A no-questioned-asked money-back guarantee
Pros
- Offers fast and stable connection speeds all around the servers
- Provides effective split-tunneling for Android users
- Works excellent with Kodi and other devices
Cons
- The app doesn’t work in China
IPVanish is a superb VPN for watching global content because it has over 2,000 servers in 50 locations. It has applications for fire devices, such as Amazon Fire TV. This VPN’s AES-256 cipher protects your online activities from even the toughest hackers.
It also has a responsive kill switch that secures your IP in cases where the VPN connection drops. An excellent feature of IPVanish is its famous WireGuard protocol. You can use it to get a fast streaming experience.
Subscribing to its premium plan gives you all the essential security features and built-in protection against IPv6 leaks and DNS. IPVanish is affordable as its plan starts from $3.33 a month, and you can use a single account for unlimited simultaneous connections.
5. Surfshark
An extraordinary VPN service that comes with relatively cheap subscriptions and boasts premium features. The provider has a strict, uncompromised no-logging policy and a Camouflage Mode for enhanced security.
More than 3,100 efficient VPN servers scattered in around 65 countries
Runs on RAM-based servers (best for privacy)
No data logging by rigid no-logs policy
Robust data AES-256 (government-grade) encryption
Supports Peer to Peer traffic on most servers
Security-enhancing smart kill switch feature
Functional CleanWeb ad and malware blocking feature
Split tunneling with dependable effectiveness
No limit to the number of connections per account
30 days of no-questions-asked refunds
Pros
- Offers cheap and affordable plans for its premium VPN services
- Boasts user-friendly app for Fire TV Stick
- Impressive and reliable customer support
Cons
- Access to some streaming services is inconsistent
Surfshark is another reliable VPN to watch Showtime shows from outside the US. With its extensive server network, you can connect to virtually any part of the world and access endless Showtime content. It provides over 3000 servers in 105 countries, which is the most on this list.
Surfshark’s super-fast servers and unlimited bandwidth ensure your Showtime streaming is smooth without buffering or lags. This VPN provider is safe because it uses impenetrable encryption ciphers to make your online activities private.
Plus, it works on RAM-only servers that wipe out your data within every system reboot. This is your best pick for a VPN that offers more value for less money. The price is $2.30 monthly, and the subscription covers unlimited simultaneous connections.
Best VPNs to access Showtime abroad – Comparison table
| VPN service | NordVPN | Private Internet Access | ExpressVPN | IPVanish | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Streaming services unblocked | Netflix, Disney Plus, Showtime, Amazon Prime Video, ITVX, Channel 4, Hulu, HBO Max, Kodi, Paramount+, Cackle, BBC iPlayer, Hotstar | 9Now, YouTube, Showtime, Netflix, Kodi, ITVX, All4, Hulu, HBO Max | Amazon Prime Video, Disney Plus, Hulu, HBO Max, Showtime, Netflix, BBC iPlayer | Sling TV, Netflix, 10Play, All4, Hulu, Kodi, 9Now, Amazon Prime Video, Hotstar | ITV Hub, All4, Netflix, Sky Go, Disney Plus |
| Number of servers | 6,100 | 35,000 | 3,000 | 2,000+ | 3,200+ |
| IP Location | 111+ countries | 90+ countries | 105+ countries | 75 in 50+ countries | 100+ countries |
| Speed | 193 Mbps | 301.32 Mbps | 110 Mbps | 191.70 Mbps | 203.963 Mbps |
| Maximum Devices Supported | 10 | Unlimited | 8 | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Compatibility | Android, iOS, Windows, Linux, routers, Mac, Kindle Fire, Chrome, Chromebook Firefox, Edge, Smart TVs | iOS, Android, Windows, Mac, Linux, routers, Chrome, Firefox, Opera | iOS, Android, macOS, Windows, Linux, Android TV, Fire TV, Chromebook, routers | Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, routers | iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, Linux, Android TV, Fire TV, routers |
Criteria for choosing a suitable VPN for watching Showtime outside the USA
Speed and stability are core factors to prioritize when looking for a VPN to stream Showtime movies. Other factors to consider include security, price, and the number of servers it offers. Below are essential features for selecting the most suitable VPN for Showtime:
- Reliability and speed: The multiple encryptions a VPN passes through may lag your internet connection. So, choose a VPN with fast speed because it’s ideal for streaming movies without disconnecting.
- Extensive server network: Since Showtime is only available in the US, you should use a VPN provider with multiple US servers. For example, NordVPN has over 2,000 servers in 15 locations in the US.
- Pricing: Look for VPNs that offer great value for money. You want a VPN that has a money-back guarantee and a free trial.
- Logging policy: Before signing up, verify that the VPN doesn’t log user data. To do this, check the provider’s logging and privacy policy.
Can I use a free VPN to watch Showtime?
You can use a free VPN for Showtime. Of course, it’s often tempting to save money while accessing streaming services. Many free VPNs don’t ask for your card details to sign up. Sadly, they come at a greater expense. Free VPNs have subpar functionality, quality, and security compared to paid alternatives.
The majority of these providers earn revenue by tracking and selling your data. Undoubtedly, this exposes you to malware and hackers. Free VPNs display intrusive ads, which can affect your streaming experience.
They also lack extensive servers to support many users, resulting in buffering and poor connection speed. Free VPNs also come with weak encryption standards, making it noticeably low-quality to stream videos. Therefore, you should opt for premium VPN services.
VPNs to avoid unblocking Showtime
Aside from the common reasons for not using a free VPN for Showtime, some providers have been notorious for logging users’ data and selling it to third-party advertisers. We believe it’s the utmost moral responsibility of VPN services to safeguard your online privacy.
As a result, you should avoid VPNs that don’t interest you at the core. The following are two providers that have failed to safeguard users’ data at all costs:
PureVPN
According to 2017 media reports, PureVPN knowingly handed over its users’ data to the FBI to secure the arrest of a cyberstalking suspect. It collaborated with law enforcement agencies to identify Rylan Lin, suspected of stalking his female neighbor in Massachusetts.
Ryan was accused of hacking into the victim’s Google Drive and Apple iCloud accounts to download personal data. He chose PureVPN, thinking it would mask his identity from the government.
Surprisingly, this provider had a no-logging policy. However, it tainted its reputation by storing user data and having a potentially misleading privacy policy. Although it did improve its practices to implement a genuine zero-logging policy, it’s still better to avoid taking risks.
HolaVPN
HolaVPN is notorious for its shady business practices and intrusive logging. This provider usually keeps logs of its users’ information to sell to data companies like Cambridge Analytica.
The purpose of a VPN is to make your data safe and secure, but HolaVPN goes against this policy by selling users’ data to the highest bidder.
Why is Showtime having an issue with my VPN? (How to fix it)
Even when you’ve taken the appropriate steps to use a VPN, you may experience connection problems. Here’s why Showtime may not work with a VPN:
- The VPN provider isn’t suitable for watching Showtime.
- You have a DNS/IP leak.
- Your internet connection keeps dropping in and out.
- Showtime has blocked your preferred working server.
- The VPN provider has blocked service on a specific port.
- Your VPN software may be experiencing glitches from time to time.
- Your firewall has blocked VPN connections.
The solutions to these issues are:
- Use another web browser.
- Clear the cookies in your web browser.
- Enable your firewall and router to allow passthrough for VPN.
- Switch to a new server.
- Disconnect and reconnect to your Wi-Fi networks.
- Reinstall the latest version of your VPN app.
- Contact customer support to report the matter.
If you cannot resolve these difficulties, we advise you to use one of the VPNs recommended above. They offer users a 7-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can run tests on each until you find the most suitable option.
How can I subscribe to Showtime outside the US through its website?
You’ll need a US credit card and billing information to stream Showtime content from www.showtime.com directly. Below are steps to subscribe to Showtime through its website from abroad:
- Subscribe to a VPN service. We recommend NordVPN.
- Download and install the VPN app.
- Connect to a US server.
- Visit Showtime’s official website from your device.
- Click “Start Free Trial” and open a Showtime account following the on-screen directions.
- Sign up for the free trial with your US-based billing details.
- Now, you can access unlimited Showtime content from anywhere.
Once your free trial ends, your Showtime membership will continue. So, if you’re taking the streaming service for a test, ensure you cancel before the free trial period ends.
How can I subscribe to Showtime with a gift card from abroad?
Aside from having a standalone Showtime subscription, you can access the streaming service with a gift card. Simply visit www.showtime.com/redeem to use your gift card as a credit to your account. Since Showtime is a geo-restricted platform, you must mask your location with a VPN before subscription.
Follow these steps to subscribe to Showtime via gift card from outside the US:
- Buy a Showtime gift card from Amazon or www.mygiftcardsupply.com.
- You’ll receive a gift code in your mailbox after you purchase it.
- Download and install a VPN.
- Connect to a US server and visit the Showtime website.
- Click “Start Free Trial.”
- At the bottom of the box, select “Have a gift code? Redeem it here.“
- Input the gift code in your email and click “Redeem.”
- Follow the instructions and open a Showtime account.
- Now, you have a Showtime membership to watch unlimited TV shows and movies.
How do I access a Showtime account with an Apple subscription?
Another way to access Showtime is through an Apple subscription. Because this streaming platform supports in-app purchases, you can pay directly via your iTunes account to watch movies.
Here’s how to stream Showtime using an Apple subscription outside the USA:
- Connect your Apple TV to a VPN-configured router or use the ExpressVPN Media streamer feature to change your DNS address.
- Visit the Apple TV menu and click the Showtime icon.
- Select the free trial option and enter your iTunes details.
- Choose a subscription plan and follow the instructions.
- Once you subscribe, sign in to your Showtime account using your password and username.
Note: You’ll need Apple Pay to continue streaming Showtime after the free trial period ends.
How much does Showtime cost?
Here’s an overview of Showtime’s pricing plans:
| Streaming platform | Pricing |
|---|---|
| Standalone Showtime | $10.99/month and $99/month |
| Showtime on Amazon Prime | $10/month plus a 7-day free trial |
| Showtime on Hulu | $10.99/month plus a 7-day free trial |
| Paramount+ | $11.99/month plus a 7-day free trial |
| Apple TV | $10.99/month plus a 7-day free trial |
Showtime’s monthly plan costs $10.99 outside the US. Its annual subscription costs $99/year. This streaming service has a 30-day money-back guarantee. Plus, you can end your subscription and renew it anytime. Besides, you can download any movie or TV show from Showtime to watch it offline.
It’s also available on multiple streaming platforms at different prices. On Hulu, Showtime costs US$10.99/month and comes with a 7-day free trial. To enjoy this service, subscribe to Hulu with a premium add-on. With Amazon Prime, you can stream Showtime for $10/month with a 7-day free trial.
How can I cancel my Showtime subscription from abroad?
Here are steps to cancel your Showtime subscription without a hassle:
- Sign in to Showtime’s website from your device.
- Go to “Account Settings” and click ‘Your Account.”
- Choose “Cancel Your Subscription” and follow the instructions.
- After successfully canceling your subscription, Showtime won’t charge you for the following month/year.
Where can I watch Showtime online?
Paramount Media Networks, the same company that owns Paramount Plus, owns Showtime. It is a USA-based premium TV network. Its namesake parent company, Showtime Networks, is a subsidiary of Paramount Media Networks.
Multiple streaming services enable you to watch Showtime movies at affordable prices, such as Sling TV, Amazon Prime, Hulu, AT&T TV, and FuboTV. It also comes as an add-on to your existing YouTube and Roku channels subscription.
| Streaming service | Pricing/month |
|---|---|
| Hulu | $7.99 |
| Sling TV | $40 |
| Amazon Prime Video | $8.99 |
| YouTube TV | $72.99 |
| AT&T TV | $55 (plus a showtime subscription fee) |
| FuboTV | $74.99 |
These streaming services are unavailable in some locations, so you’ll need a VPN to unblock them. Here’s a brief detail about them:
- Hulu: Showtime on Hulu offers access to current movie lineups, documentaries, and award-winning movie originals. You can create a Showtime account with your Hulu logins and use the app on all supported devices.
- Sling TV: It features nine different Showtime channels, including on-demand and live TV.
- Amazon Prime Video: To stream Showtime on your Amazon Prime Video account, sign up for the add-on. You can take advantage of its free trial period to sample the features.
- YouTube TV: Streaming Showtime on YouTube TV requires an extra fee. Plus, the first five days are entirely free!
- AT&T TV: When you subscribe to Showtime, you get an additional 13 channels.
- Fubo TV: Its basic subscription includes access to Showtime content and a 7-day free trial.
What to watch on Showtime
Showtime has a dope content library that features documentaries, movies, TV shows, sports programs, and even kids’ shows like SpongeBob.
Best movies currently showing on Showtime
- My Girl
- The War with Grandpa
- Up in the Air
- The Farewell
- The Kingmaker
- Sarah Silverman: Jesus is Magic
- XY Chelsea
- Letters to Juliet
- Flashdance
- The Florida Project
- Match Point
What can I watch on Showtime in 2024?
- Catching Lighting
- Waco: The Aftermath
- Free State of Jones
- Carrie
- April Fool’s Day
- Big Top Pee-Wee
- Casino
- Charlotte’s Web
- Gladiator
- Drinking Buddies
- Bullets Over Broadway
- Grizzly II: Revenge
- Defiance
- Marvellous and the Black Hole
- Pride
- Selma
- Valley Girl
- The Rage: Carrie 2
- The Truman Show
- The Squid and the Whale
- Sniper: The White Raven
- Gods and Monsters
- Anvil! The Story of Anvil!
- 3 Days to Kill
Popular shows on Showtime
- American Rust
- Bodies Bodies Bodies
- Dexter
- The Chi
- Shameless
- Your Honor
- American Gigolo
- Moonlight
- Children of Men
- The Man Who Fell To Earth
- Yellowjackets
- Waco: The Aftermath
- Ray Donovan
- I Love That For You
- We Need To Talk About Cosby
- Super Pumped: The Battle of Uber
What devices does Showtime support?
The following are the devices Showtime supports:
- Apple TV
- Firestick TV
- Xbox One/Xbox Series X|S
- Android TV
- Playstation4
- Xiaomi MiBox
- Hisense TV
- Oculus (Go & Quest)
- Roku
- Samsung Smart TV
How can I download the Showtime app on Android?
Your Google Play Store may not have Showtime because it’s geo-restricted. However, connecting to a VPN will help you download this streaming service outside of America.
Follow these detailed steps to unblock Showtime with a VPN on your Android:
- Download and install a VPN on your device.
- Connect to a server (preferably New York).
- Open another Google ID for the US region and go to your Google Play Store profile. (Refer to this detailed guide to change Google Play country in case of ambiguity.)
- Sign in to the Play Store with your new ID.
- Install the Showtime app and input your details.
- Stream any movie of your choice.
How can I download the Showtime app on iOS?
You can enjoy Showtime effortlessly on your iOS device once you follow these steps:
- Subscribe to a VPN and install it on your device.
- Connect to a US server.
- Go to your Apple ID.
- Click “Settings,” then change the country region to the United States.
- Go to the App Store and search for the Showtime app.
- Download the app and watch Showtime.
FAQs
No, it’s not illegal to stream Showtime from abroad. However, it’s against the terms and conditions to use a VPN when accessing its content. If Showtime detects a VPN, it can temporarily suspend your account.
Showtime is unable to block VPNs. It can only ban known IP addresses. For this reason, you must use a premium VPN that often updates its IP address.
You can watch Showtime for free for 30 days on Roku outside the US with a VPN.
Showtime is not a part of Netflix, but you can find most of its content on Netflix.
Of course, you can watch your favorite boxing fights on Showtime. The streaming service has graced boxing stars like Anthony Joshua, Manny Pacquiao, and Deontay Wilder.
