In today’s world, one thing’s for sure—we are all streaming lovers. None of us wants to miss out on amazing content, and it seems nothing’s more effective for this than having access to an all-powerful streaming service like Crave TV.
Undoubtedly, Crave offers one of the most extensive options in the streaming market, so it all comes down to a simple formula: being at the forefront is to watch Crave TV freely. But there’s one problem! If you’re outside Canada, geo-restrictions will forbid you from accessing Crave’s content.
Yet, that’s not an issue either! Buckle up as we unveil a step-by-step guide for circumventing Crave’s restrictions and opening to a world full of entertainment.
What is CraveTV?
Crave TV is an on-demand entertainment service available only in Canada; having a membership here is to be confident of a one-of-a-kind experience. The different genres make the content from Crave a sensation. It’s all about a powerful combination of their own creations and the claims of the back archives of Hulu, Discovery+, HBO, and Showtime.
In short, on just one platform, you can watch every episode of Seinfeld, The Handmaid’s Tale, Curb Your Enthusiasm, and Star Trek altogether, which, with no hesitations, is a difficult thing to outperform. The service is among the top streaming sites worldwide, given the number of people who visit it daily. But the problem is that you’ll need a Canadian IP address to access all that content if you are not in Canada.
Top 3 VPNs for streaming Crave TV outside Canada (quick overview)
If you’re looking for the best VPNs to unblock Crave TV outside Canada, we have gathered the top 3 most efficient VPNs for the Crave TV app.
- NordVPN: Fast streaming and browsing are guaranteed with NordVPN’s top-notch encryption, dual VPN, and strict no-logs policy, all while preserving users’ online identities. If you want to stream Crave TV outside Canada, NordVPN is an exceptional choice.
- Private Internet Access (PIA): This VPN offers unbreakable security and unfettered internet access thanks to its extensive global server network and military-grade encryption. Private Internet Access is potent VPN when it comes to unblocking geo-restrictions.
- ExpressVPN: This provider’s enormous server database, lightning-fast connections, and robust encryption mechanism put it at the top of our list. As if that wasn’t enough, ExpressVPN offers three months of subscription for free when subscribing to the yearly plan.
Why is a VPN necessary to access Crave TV outside of Canada?
Crave TV is a Canadian streaming service available only for Canadian users. Therefore, since the platform applies geo-restrictions, people outside this region won’t be able to access the content.
The most popular way for these restrictions to take effect is by obtaining the information provided by the Internet Service Provider. In short, when a user visits a website, the site receives metadata from the IP, i.e., the IP address, location, the device used, etc.
Once the platform identifies these data, it decides whether or not the user has permission to access the content. Thus, a user outside Canada can only access Crave TV by bypassing the website’s security inspection.
A Virtual Private Network is a service that allows the user to connect to a virtual server in a specific location such as Canada. While connected to the VPN, the website obtains metadata from the virtual server, which means the IP address and location of the user will be the one they desire. Additionally, when you use a VPN, you enjoy a robust layer of privacy while using the internet. So is a warranty of a safe and confidential experience.
In summary, to get Crave TV in the US, UK, or anywhere else outside Canada, you need to use a VPN service, as this is the safest way to circumvent geo-restrictions and protect your privacy online.
3 best VPNs to unblock Crave TV – Detailed list
1. NordVPN
This overall best VPN is great to unblock Canadian sites anywhere. Alongside numerous Canada servers, NordVPN also offers many other locations to access content from abroad within Canadian boundaries.
Huge server network of 6,100+ nodes across 111 countries
Allows P2P torrents on servers
Enables double encryption
Allows connections to maximum ten devices at once
Solid Web protection
Owns multiHop mode
Pay-back policy of 30 days
Assists users through 24/7 live chat
Tested and audited no-logs policy
Pros
- Serves as a fast VPN in Canada
- Unblocks a wide range of well-known streaming platforms
- Easy to use
Cons
- The desktop apps are often sluggish
- Offers no discount on short term sign up
With a fantastic average speed of 369 Mbps, NordVPN immediately stands out as one of the fastest VPNs on the market. Because of the ultra-fast connection, you can watch, browse, and download without experiencing latency, buffering, or slowdowns.
NordVPN has over 6,100 servers globally, 480 of which distribute around Canada. Users enjoy a variety of server options thanks to this vast server network. Additionally, the VPN guarantees consumers enough bandwidth and low-latency connections to stream without issue.
Three yearly subscriptions are available from NordVPN, with the regular plan starting at $3.99, making it one of the most economical choices. Users also receive a 30-day money-back guarantee so they may test the service risk-free.
Canny customers who wish to safeguard their privacy can utilize NordVPN’s security and privacy function, which offers Double VPN encryption. Moreover, it has an automated kill switch to protect customers from data leakage if their VPN connection breaks.
2. Private Internet Access (PIA)
One of the most effective VPN services at bypassing streaming sites’ VPN bans. It provides reliable connections to all major streaming platforms, including Crave TV.
Huge server network across 90 countries
Doubles security by AES 128-bit/256-bit encryption
No data retention
Connection unlimited devices at once
Solid safety against IPv6 leaks
Refund policy of 30 days
Pros
- Unblocks Crave TV
- Excellent speed on Windows
- Top-notch privacy protection and protocols
Cons
- Complex interface
- Has no free plan
Privacy and security are PIA’s top priorities. Private Internet Access is the VPN service with the largest server network, boasting over 35,000 servers across 90 countries. With 4 VPN server locations across Canada in Toronto, Ontario, Vancouver, and Montreal, PIA is a fantastic option for consumers that want access to region-locked media.
It offers consumers blazing-fast and dependable connections in terms of speed. Its average streaming speed is sufficient for most internet activities, even though it might vary based on the user’s location and the server they connect to.
One of PIA’s unique features is its built-in virus and ad-blocking tools, which are a bonus. This way, what they provide goes beyond powerful VPN functionality; by including antimalware and ad-blocking services. Moreover, Private Internet Access has an automated kill switch that helps safeguard customers’ privacy in the event of unexpected disconnections.
PIA supports several operating systems, including Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS, Linux, routers, and even certain Smart TVs.
3. ExpressVPN
A reliable solution that has consistently proven to be a reliable service for watching Crave TV where it is restricted.
A network of over 3,000+VPN servers spread across 105 countries
Military-standard AES-256-bit encryption
Owns TrustedServer technology
No IPv6 leaks at all
Supports P2P sharing on servers
Tested and tried no-logging policy
Connection for maximum eight devices at a time per account
Money-back guarantee of 30 days
Pros
- 24/7 customer support
- Excellent server coverage
- Access to lots of services and sites
- Features a brilliant mobile app
Cons
- More expensive than its competitors
ExpressVPN is the clear victor in our comparison; this exclusive service offers several features that give customers access to swift, secure, and private internet connections. ExpressVPN has 4+ servers spread around Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver.
Furthermore impressive is ExpressVPN’s speed performance, which ranks among the fastest VPN speeds available to consumers. The service is quick and features like Smart Location let customers choose the closest and least latency-intensive server.
The kill switch feature that automatically activates if the VPN connection is lost is one of ExpressVPN’s unique characteristics. The same applies to its split tunneling feature, an excellent option to separate programs based on whether they require a virtual server.
It also has 256-bit encryption, which guarantees the security of your internet traffic at all times.
While not the most affordable VPN service, ExpressVPN has a 35% discount on a 12-month package. Furthermore, the service’s first-rate features provide an unrivaled combination of performance and dependability, and you can test it out risk-free thanks to its 30-day money-back guarantee.
VPN to access Crave TV – Comparison table
| Criteria | NordVPN | Private Internet Access | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|---|
| Available servers | One of the most substantial speeds is 369 Mbps. | Astonishing 35,000 servers in 90 countries around the globe | Over 3,000 blazing-fast servers in 105+ locations |
| Streaming speed | Fastest average speed in the market with 475 Mbps | A decent yet powerful speed of 117 Mbps. | One of the most substantial speeds with 369 Mbps. |
| Cost | The yearly plan starts at $3.99 per month. | The most affordable option with $3.33 per month in a yearly-billed plan | The Standard option starts at $6.67 a month. |
| Device compatibility | Compatible with Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, routers, and more. | Compatible with Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, routers, and more. | Compatible with Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, routers, and more. |
| Current promos | Three months for free on the yearly plan | Three months for free on the 3-yearly plan | Get 35% off on the yearly plan |
Selecting the best VPNs for Crave TV
To watch Crave TV outside Canada with a VPN is incredibly easy if you have the right provider at your service; otherwise, it can be a real headache. When selecting the best VPN provider for your needs, be mindful of taking into consideration the following criteria.
1. Server network
Generally speaking, the main thing to consider when choosing a VPN provider is the number of servers available, especially in the region you want to stream from. In essence, while more servers you have, the better your experience unlocking geographic restrictions. A VPN with a vast range of servers like ExpressVPN will help you to stream freely Crave Canada.
2. Speed
It’s crucial to choose a VPN provider, keeping your final goal in mind. If you want to use a VPN service to stream content from Crave, so you have to guarantee the speed is adequate to accomplish this purpose.
Broadly, a sufficient streaming speed for a VPN would be above 100 Mbps. VPN services like NordVPN, with a more lavish average speed, ensure an experience free of latency, buffering, or slowdowns.
3. Security and privacy features
The perfect VPN for your needs not only will help you bypass geo-restrictions but also will offer you a set of functions to amour your privacy and security while being online.
Top-notch VPN services like NordVPN give you exceptional features like a kill switch to protect you from sudden disconnections, split tunneling to decide which apps need a virtual connection, and a military-grade 256 encryption system.
4. Price and promotions
A no-brainer when it comes to selecting not only a VPN but a service in general. You want the best set of features at the most affordable price. In other words, the best quality-price ratio. NordVPN offers the best quality-price relationship on the market.
5. Customer service
Another vital criterion to consider when selecting the best VPN is customer service. Whether for technical issues, billing errors, or simply to get assistance, you need a VPN that has 5-stars customer support 24/7.
Do free VPNs work with Crave TV?
If you want to enjoy a remarkable experience while streaming content from Crave TV, using a free VPN service is not the best choice. While some free VPNs may allow you to get around Crave’s geo-restrictions, in most cases, these providers are incapable of bypassing the regulations.
Nonetheless, even if you can access Crave’s or any other platform like CTV Canada‘s content with a free VPN, the likelihood of having a poor streaming experience because of latency and buffering is genuinely high. Free VPNs usually offer 10 Mbps, and the number of servers is insignificant.
On top of this, privacy is always at stake when using free VPN services. Free providers don’t count on encryption systems or any other security features.
Having problems accessing Crave TV even with a VPN?
Is your Crave TV Canada not working? Sometimes, even after connecting to a VPN, you may experience difficulties streaming Crave’s content. If that is your case, you can apply the following troubleshooting solutions.
- Clear your cookies and cache memory: Every time you visit a website, your browser sends text snippets that work as a label of your visit. Like this, the website remembers your info. Similarly, the cache is a memory unit that stores data and temporary files. Sometimes, websites like Crave TV can recognize your information due to your cookies and cache; clearing these elements may resolve your issues streaming Crave’s content outside Canada.
- Activate IP leak protection on your VPN: Cutting-edge VPN providers like NordVPN have functionalities to prevent your real IP from leaking while connected to a virtual server. By running the DNS leak test at www.dnsleaktest.com, you can check for IP leaks.
- Assure to connect to a Canadian server: Sometimes, the problem might simply be you mistakenly connected to the wrong server. To avoid this, double check the server you chose is in Canada.
- Change to another Canadian server: You can also try to connect to a different Canadian server. For instance, if you initially connected to a server located in Toronto, Canada, you may choose a Montreal server instead to stream Crave’s content.
- Use a different browser: Certain browsers might be aggressive when retaining information from previous tabs. In this case, you should use a different browser (such as a secure browser) than the habitual, as this may resolve the issue.
- Contact customer support: If none of the previous solutions work, you can always contact VPN customer support to get dedicated guidance from VPN experts.
Does Crave TV offer subscriptions outside of Canada?
Unfortunately no! Crave TV is a streaming service that works only in Canada. However, if you live outside this region, the only thing you need to do is to get a premium VPN service like NordVPN, connect to a Canadian server, and complete the registration process on crave.ca.
It’s worth to mention you will also need a Canadian payment method to subscribe to one of Crave’s subscription plans successfully.
Payment methods for Crave TV outside Canada
Another security protocol Crave implements is to restrict payment options. Crave’s platform receives only cards valid in Canada. On top of this, your billing address should be Canadian as well. If you have a Canadian credit or debit card, this will be no issue, but if you don’t, you may need to use the following alternatives.
1. Buying a Crave gift card
To buy a Crave gift card you need to go to https://www.crave.ca/en/gift, choose a gift card value, and complete the payment process. Once you have your gift card code in your email, you can use it to subscribe to any of the subscription plans available.
2. Using your iTunes account
With this method, you will only need to change your country/region in the settings, select Canada from the list, and accept the terms and conditions. After doing this, go to your VPN, connect to a Canadian server, install the Crave TV app on your device, and complete the registration process.
Your payment method will be the one linked to your Apple ID by default.
Crave Canada subscription plans
Crave TV offers three subscription plans. The first one is the Crave Total plan, which users can get for CAD 9.99 a month. This plan allows up to 4 simultaneous streams and the option to cast and download content.
The second plan is the Crave Mobile plan. Users can subscribe to this plan for CAD 5.99/month; this plan allows only one user on the web or the mobile version, and it doesn’t have the option to cast or download content.
Additionally, Crave offers a Starz add-on for CAD 12.62 per month.
Supported devices on Crave TV
Crave TV supports a range of devices. Take a look at the following matrix to see some of them.
| Plug-in devices | Smart TVs | Game Consoles | Computers, phones, and tablers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Different cable devices are compatible with Crave. Some of these are Chromecast, Apple TV, Roku, Bell Fibe HD, Amazon Fire TV, etc. | A range of Smart TV brands is compatible with Crave TV, including Samsung, LG, Sony, RCA, Roku, and Westinghouse among others. | Crave TV is compatible with Playstation (PS4 & PS5). | Windows computers above 8.1, macOS above 10.11, Browsers: Mozilla, Chrome, Safari, Android above 7.0, iPad, iPod, and iPhone above version 11. |
Downloading the Crave TV app outside of Canada
The installation process may differ slightly depending on the device you want to install Crave TV on. However, the overall structure follows the following.
- Get a potent VPN: First, find a VPN provider that offers top-notch capabilities such as lightning-fast speed, powerful encryption systems, a large range of servers, and additional features to protect your privacy. We highly recommend NordVPN as it is the best option in the market.
- Connect to a Canadian server: Look for a Canadian server and connect to it. NordVPN has a few Canadian servers, including Montreal, Toronto, Quebec, Vancouver, and more.
- Download Crave TV from the app store of your device: The installation process can be different depending on the device. Nevertheless, usually, you just need to go to the app store look for the Crave app and download it. For some operating systems like Android, you may need to change your country or region first to Canada.
- Install Crave on your device: Once the application has been installed on your device, open it, sign up or log in according to your case, and start streaming the best content.
Available channels on Crave TV outside of Canada
One of the most relevant attributes of Crave TV is the extensive list of channels available on the app. Some of the channels you can access with a Crave TV subscription are:
- HBO
- Warner Bros
- Discovery+
- Paramount
- Comedy Central
- MTV
- Showtime
- Starz
Few movies and TV shows worth watching on Crave TV
These are some of the best movie and TV show titles available on Crave TV in 2024.
| Movies | TV Shows |
|---|---|
| Jurassic World Dominion, John Wick, John Wick 2, and John Wick 3, The Harry Potter saga, The Woman King, Respect, Barbarian, Black Adam | Succession. Yellowjackets, RuPaul’s Drag Race, The Voice, Party Down, The Last of Us, Euphoria, Star Trek |
Crave TV’s latest releases
Some of the newest Crave releases are
- Real Time With Bill Maher (HBO)
- Last of the giants
- Evolving Vegan (Crave original)
- Disobey (Crave original)
- Rain Dogs (HBO)
- Perry Mason (HBO)
- The Circus (Showtime)
- Your honor (Showtime)
FAQs
A “video cannot be played” error on Crave TV may be due to poor streaming quality, compatibility issues, or technical challenges.
Unfortunately no. Crave TV is primarily designed for use in Canada only. Thus, users cannot watch Crave outside Canada.
Yes, you can stream in HD with no hassle while using a potent VPN with ultra-fast speed and a vast range of servers like NordVPN.
Although Crave’s content is not available outside Canada, you can stream Crave TV using a top-notch VPN like NordVPN. In this sense, you would need to consider both the fees of Crave and the VPN you select. Crave prices start a CAD 5.99 (USD 4.43), and NordVPN at USD 3.99 (on offer). So using this combo, you’ll have an average price of USD 11.10.
Some free VPNs can bypass Crave’s geo-restrictions. Nonetheless, the overall streaming experience won’t be the best. You will likely experience latency and buffering issues due to the slow speed. Additionally, your privacy is at stake with free VPN services.
Yes, Crave offers a 30-day free trial for Canadian users. But if you want to access its free trial outside Canada, you need to connect to a Canadian VPN server, sign in as a new user, and claim the 30-day Crave TV free trial.
Some of the best Crave TV alternatives include Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime.
