Home   >   Blog

Best VPN for Draftkings in 2024 – Play Draftkings in a Restricted State

Last updated: January 3, 2024

Home   >   Blog

Sports enthusiasts everywhere love playing Daily Fantasy Sports on popular DFS sites!

While this is a highly entertaining and potentially lucrative pastime, not all fantasy sports fans can access the sports betting sites they love from their part of the world.

If you want to access DraftKings in certain states, you may find that your DraftKings game is blocked due to local laws and regulations. Thankfully, you can unblock DraftKings Fantasy Sports in a restricted state with a DraftKings VPN.

By using a Virtual Private Network (VPN), you can hide your actual IP address and location, replacing it with an IP address that corresponds to a server location in a permitted DraftKings location.

If you are wondering how to find the best VPN for DraftKings so you can play from a restricted state, keep on reading! Our number one pick for a DraftKings VPN is ExpressVPN!

In a hurry? Here are the 7 best VPNs for DraftKings

How to choose the best VPN for DraftKings 

Look for these key features when selecting the best DraftKings Sportsbook VPN, and you will enjoy unrestricted and secure access every time!

  • Geo-spoofing. Select a VPN that can reliably hide your true location and your VPN usage so you can bypass DraftKings location blocks.
  • Speed. A fast VPN means you will be up on all the latest news while playing DraftKings Fantasy Sports, without any delays due to a slow connection.
  • Servers. The best VPN providers have a large number of servers worldwide for the broadest access to geo-restricted sites.
  • Security. Maintain your security and privacy online by selecting a VPN with first-rate security features, including an audited no-logs policy and military-level encryption.
  • Devices. Make sure the VPN has apps that work with all of your home devices and allow you to connect multiple devices under the same account.
  • Customer service. Stick with VPN providers that offer 24/7 live chat support and a money-back guarantee.

7 best VPNs for DraftKings 

If you are looking for the best VPN for DraftKings, we’ve compiled all the information you need to pick the ideal one for your budget and needs and summarized it in the sections below.

1. ExpressVPN 

Devices compatible with ExpressVPN

Our number one choice for the best VPN for DraftKings is ExpressVPN with its secure, private, fast, and dependable service.

Features: The VPN’s impressive server network includes 3000+ servers spanning 105 countries. Its advanced split tunneling feature allows users to choose which traffic goes through the VPN and which can access the internet directly, enhancing flexibility and control over online activities. Additionally, ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer feature enables users to stream content on devices that don’t typically support VPN connections, expanding accessibility across a wide range of devices.

Speed: When tested, ExpressVPN’s speed on both a local US server and an overseas server in the UK, had impressive results. On the US server, the download speed was 88 Mbps, the upload speed was 84 Mbps, and the Ping was 305. When connected to the UK the download speed was 89 Mbps, the upload speed was 76 Mbps, and the ping was 134.

Privacy and security: Renowned for its robust security and privacy features, ExpressVPN employs AES-256 encryption to safeguard user data. The VPN maintains a strict no-logs policy, underscoring its commitment to user privacy. ExpressVPN also operates its servers in RAM-only mode and offers a kill switch feature to instantly disconnect users from the internet in case of a VPN connection drop.

Performance: ExpressVPN consistently delivers high-performance levels, with fast and reliable connections. The impressive download speeds, make it an ideal choice for all online activities, including playing fantasy sports, streaming, gaming, and torrenting.

Streaming: Not only can you count on ExpressVPN to unblock DraftKings Fantasy Sports, but you can also enjoy streaming on your favorite sites, including Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, (HBO) Max, Hulu, Vudu, and more without geographical restrictions getting in your way.

Compatibility: You can access DraftKings Sportsbook on just about any device using the ExpressVPN intuitive apps for Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, iOS, and more.

Pricing: When you sign up for 12 months, you pay $6.67 per month, and you get 3 months for free. It also comes with a 30-day trial period and can connect up to 8 devices to a single account.

Pros:

  • Excellent speed
  • Strong security features
  • Zero logs
  • Large server network
  • 24/7 live chat support
  • 30-day trial period

Cons:

Higher cost

2. NordVPN

Devices compatible with NordVPN

A premium VPN at a great value, NordVPN is known for its features, speed, and dependability.

Features: NordVPN distinguishes itself with a range of features, such as Double VPN, which routes user traffic through two servers for an added layer of encryption. The CyberSec feature blocks malicious websites and unwanted ads, enhancing the overall online browsing experience. Additionally, NordVPN’s 5800+ servers in 60+ countries include specialty servers optimized for P2P file-sharing and dedicated IP servers for users requiring a consistent IP address.

Speed: This highly reputable VPN also offers great speed. Using the quick connect feature, the download speed on a New York Server was 93 Mbps, the upload speed was 89 Mbps, and the ping was 194. When connected to the UK, the download speed was 82 Mbps, the upload speed was 95 Mbps, and the ping was 265.

Privacy and security: NordVPN is well-known for its advanced security features. It utilizes AES-256 encryption and Ram-only servers to protect user data and establish a secure online environment as well as an automatic kill switch and DNS and IP leak protection to ensure no data is accidentally leaked. The VPN strictly adheres to a zero-logs policy, assuring users that their online activities remain private and are not recorded.

Performance: NordVPN consistently delivers impressive overall performance, characterized by reliable and fast connections. NordVPN’s well-optimized servers support a consistently smooth and responsive online experience for playing DraftKings, streaming, gaming, and torrenting.

Streaming: Unblock all your favorite streaming services using NordVPN, including Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Video, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, Hulu, Vudu, and more, in addition to unblocking DraftKings.

Compatibility: NordVPN has a user-friendly app for all major operating systems including macOS, iOS, Linux, Android, Windows, and more.

Pricing: The 24-month plan is an excellent value at $3.79 per month, including 3 months free as well as a 30-day money-back guarantee. You can connect 6 devices simultaneously under one login.

Pros:

  • Good speed
  • Strong privacy and security features
  • Large server network
  • 24/7 live chat support
  • 30-day trial period

Cons:

  • Narrower scope of servers
  • Desktop apps can glitch on occasion

Devices compatible with Surfshark

Our top pick budget VPN, Surfshark, not only offers secure, dependable service at a low cost but also allows for unlimited simultaneous connections, making it a favorite for large households.

Features: Features include the CleanWeb, which blocks ads, trackers, and malware, contributing to a clutter-free and secure browsing environment. Surfshark’s Whitelister split tunneling functionality enables users to route specific apps or websites outside the VPN tunnel, offering a customized and versatile approach to online privacy. Additional features include a MultiHop mode and a Camouflage Mode. The server network includes over 3200 servers in more than 100 countries.

Speed: The speeds on Surfshark were a bit slower than ExpressVPN and NordVPN, but still decent enough for all your online activities, especially when using the Wireguard protocol. On a local connection, the download speed was 83 Mbps, and the upload speed was 65. When connected to a European server, the download speed was 81 Mbps and the upload speed was 55 Mbps.

Privacy and security: Surfshark VPN prioritizes privacy and security with robust features including AES-256-bit encryption, a zero-logs policy, Ram-only servers, a kill switch, and DNS & IP leak protection.

Performance: With Surfshark, you can easily unblock DraftKings Fantasy Sports as well as enjoy unlimited gaming, streaming, and torrenting. If you experience any buffering or lag, the 24/7 live chat support can direct you to a higher-performing server.

Streaming: Not only is Surfshark great for getting past DraftKings location restrictions, but you can also bypass geo-blocks on popular streaming platforms, including Netflix, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, Disney +, and much more!

Compatibility: Surfshark VPN is compatible with all major devices and operating systems, so you can use it on your PC, mobile, laptop, smart TV, gaming console, and more.

Pricing: Enjoy unlimited simultaneous devices and a 30-day money-back guarantee when you sign up for the 24-month plan for &1.99 per month, and you get 4 months free.

Pros:

  • Unlimited simultaneous connections
  • Low cost
  • Strong privacy and security features
  • Large server network
  • 24/7 live chat support
  • 30-day trial period

Cons:

  • Occasional buffering or lags

Devices compatible with CyberGhost

CyberGhost is a user-friendly VPN provider, allowing even novice VPN users to unblock DraftKings in no time.

Features: Its user-friendly interface and extensive server network including 9,600+ servers in 100 countries make it appealing for users of all levels. Notable features include optimized servers for streaming, gaming, and torrenting, as well as dedicated IP addresses and split tunneling.

Speed: The speed when connected to a NY server was a download speed of 73 Mbps and an upload speed of 72 Mbps. When connected to a London server, the download speed was 59 Mbps and the upload speed was 69 Mbps.

Privacy and security: CyberGhost provides a comprehensive suite of security and privacy features to protect user data and maintain anonymity online, including AES-256 encryption to safeguard data, a strict zero-logs policy, an automatic kill switch, DNS and IP leak protection, and Ram-only servers.

Performance: The speed on CyberGhost can be inconsistent, so if it’s slow, check with the live chat support to find the best server for smooth and stable connections for DraftKings, streaming, gaming, and torrenting.

Streaming: CyberGhost is a reliable VPN for streaming Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, Hulu, Vudu, and more. You can also count on it to access DraftKings Sportsbook.

Compatibility: The easy-to-use apps are compatible with all major operating systems, including Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, iOS, and others.

Pricing: An affordable VPN, you can get 2 years plus 4 months for $2.03 per month, including a 45-day money-back guarantee and 7 simultaneous connections.

Pros:

  • Priced well
  • Strong privacy and security features
  • Large server network
  • 24/7 live chat support
  • 45-day trial period

Cons:

  • Inconsistent speed

5. Atlas VPN 

A relatively new and smaller VPN service, Atlas VPN made it onto the list of best DraftKings VPNs for its combination of affordability and dependability.

Features: Atlas VPN offers a network of 1000+ servers in 42 countries around the world. Features include a data breach monitor and SafeSwap servers.

Speed: Some drop in speed is normal when using a DraftKings VPN, and the Atlas VPN service performed pretty well. When using the ultra-light Wireguard protocol, there was only a 10% drop in download speed when connected to a US server and an 11% drop in download speed when connected to a European server.

Privacy and security: Security and privacy are secured with military-grade encryption, IP & DNS leak protection, a zero-logs policy, and a kill switch. It does not, however, offer Ram-only servers, and it is based in the US, which is part of the 5-eyes alliance.

Performance: Atlas VPN offers adequate speed for daily fantasy sports, streaming, gaming, and torrenting.

Streaming: We were able to unblock Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, ESPN+, Peacock, and ITV with Atlas VPN.

Compatibility: Atlas VPN apps are compatible with Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, iOS, Android TV, and Firestick.

Pricing: Open a 2-year VPN account with Atlas VPN for just $1.82 per month and enjoy unlimited simultaneous device connections. You’ve got 30 days to try it out, and if you aren’t satisfied, cancel and get a full refund.

Pros:

  • Great price
  • Strong security features
  • 24/7 live chat support
  • 30-day trial period

Cons:

  • No Ram-only servers
  • Small server network
  • US based company

Devices compatible with PIA

Private Internet Access is committed to user privacy and security, plus it offers a huge network of servers for broad access to content across the globe!

Features: You can select servers from 30,000+ servers in 84 countries around the world. It is an open-source VPN for excellent customizability, and it has a split tunneling feature.

Speed: One of the faster VPN services, during testing on a US server, the download speed was 89 Mbps, and the upload speed was 85 Mbps. When linked to a UK server, the download speed was 89 Mbps and the upload speed was 76 Mbps.

Privacy and security: While you enjoy your daily fantasy sports using Private Internet access the military-grade encryption, Ram-only servers, zero logs policy, automatic kill switch, and DNS & IP leak protection will ensure your privacy and protect you from any cyber threats.

Performance: The fast and stable connections on PIA support smooth online streaming, gaming, and torrenting.

Streaming: Enjoy flawless streaming on Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, Hulu, Vudu, and more without geo-blocks getting in your way!

Compatibility: Use the PIA app on all your favorite devices, including those using the Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Brave, Edge, and Opera operating systems.

Pricing: For the best value on PIA, sign up for the 3-year plan. It costs just $1.89/month, allows for unlimited simultaneous devices, and includes a 30-day trial.

Pros:

  • Priced well
  • Strong privacy and security features
  • Large server network
  • 24/7 live chat support
  • 30-day trial period

Cons:

  • Less intuitive apps
  • Based in the US

IPVanish

IPVanish is a reliable VPN for enjoying daily fantasy sports on DraftKings while maintaining your privacy and security online.

Features: The VPN has 2200+ servers in more than 75 server locations throughout the world. Advanced features include a free SOCKS5 proxy and split tunneling.

Speed: Testing demonstrated solid speeds using IPVanish on both local and overseas connections. The US server download speed was 63 Mbps, and the upload speed was 72 Mbps. The speed on a UK server was a download speed of 77 Mbps and an upload speed of 71 Mbps.

Privacy and security: IPVanish boasts a no-logs policy, AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and proven DNS leak protection to ensure your online activities remain private and secure.

Performance: While IPVanish isn’t the fastest VPN on our list, it demonstrates solid performance for DraftKings online betting as well as streaming content.

Streaming: While we had a tough time unblocking Hulu, IPVanish could unblock many of the streaming platforms we tried, including Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, and Vudu.

Compatibility: IPVanish is compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS devices.

Pricing: When you sign up for 24 months, you pay $2.99 per month and get 3 months for free. It includes unlimited devices and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Pros:

  • Unlimited simultaneous devices
  • Strong privacy and security features
  • 24/7 live chat support
  • 30-day trial period

Cons:

  • Can’t unblock some streaming sites, including Hulu
  • Based in the US

How we picked and analyzed VPNs on the list

We want you to have the best DraftKings VPN possible. Here’s how our team of experts decided which ones would make our list of the 7 best DraftKings VPNs.

  • Security. We looked for VPNs with an audited zero logs policy, RAM-only servers, AES 256-bit encryption, a Kill switch, and DNS & IP leak protection.
  • Speed. Every VPN was speed tested, and we selected those that support fast and stable connections for daily fantasy sports, streaming, gaming, and torrenting.
  • Servers. VPN providers with a large and broad server network were given preference in order to give users the best access to content worldwide.
  • Compatibility. We selected VPNs with easy-to-use apps that are compatible with common devices and allow for multiple simultaneous connections on a single account.
  • Geo-spoofing. The VPNs we selected were able to unblock DraftKings as well as popular streaming platforms.
  • Customer service. The best VPNs for DraftKings should be user-friendly and include 24/7 live chat support and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

How to play DraftKings in a restricted state

If you live in a restricted state and your access to DraftKings is blocked, you can unblock DraftKings Sportsbook and be playing in no time by following these simple steps:

  1. Purchase a subscription to a premium DraftKings VPN. My top pick is ExpressVPN.
  2. Download the app onto your device.
  3. Open the app and connect to a server in Germany, or the UK.
  4. Go to DraftKings, sign in, and enjoy playing.

Why you need a VPN for DraftKings

The laws around online sports betting and gambling are different in every country and state. If it’s illegal where you live, your access to DraftKings will be blocked.

If you live in a state where it is illegal to bet, it’s still permissible to set up an account and partake in competitions, as long as no money exchanges hands, but to do that you will first have to unblock DraftKings, and for that you need a DraftKings Sportsbook VPN.

Use a VPN to connect to a server in a country where accessing DraftKings is permitted, like Austria, Canada, Germany, Ireland, Malta, or the United Kingdom.

If you stick with one of the highly reliable DraftKings VPNs from this article, like ExpressVPN, your true location and VPN usage will be hidden, and you’ll have no trouble accessing DraftKings no matter where you are.

Why is DraftKings blocked in my state?

 DraftKings is the place to go for fantasy sports competitions and sports betting, but the laws on this form of gambling vary from state to state.

Sports betting is not allowed in California, Florida, Idaho, Hawaii, Louisiana, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington, and therefore access to DraftKings Sportsbook is blocked in these locations.

It is legal to create a DraftKings account and participate in competitions without fees, but for that, you will need a VPN for DraftKings.

How to play DraftKings on your device

With the right DraftKings VPN, you can readily get past geographical restrictions and enjoy playing fantasy sports and online betting on your Android, PC, or iOS device. Keep reading for more information on how to unblock DraftKings.

Play DraftKings on your PC

Looking to play DraftKings on your PC? Just follow the steps listed below!

  1. Choose a reliable VPN, like ExpressVPN, and subscribe.
  2. Download the VPN app onto your PC.
  3. Launch the app and use it to connect to a server in the UK or Germany.
  4. Log in to your DraftKings account and enjoy!

Play DraftKings on your iOS device

Here’s how to access DraftKings on your iOS iPhone or iPad no matter where you are.

  1. Purchase a subscription to a dependable iOS-compatible VPN.
  2. Search for the app on the Apple App Store and download it onto your iOS device.
  3. Open the app and select a German or UK server.
  4. You can now access DraftKings and play all your favorite games.

Play DraftKings on your Android device

If Android is your device of choice, here is how you can access DraftKings from any location.

  1. Select and subscribe to a premium DraftKings VPN.
  2. Go to the Google Play Store and search for the app.
  3. Download the VPN app onto your tablet or Android smartphone.
  4. Open the app and create an account.
  5. Connect to a UK or German server.
  6. Open the DraftKings website and start playing!

How to play DraftKings from anywhere

You can play DraftKings from anywhere worldwide just by following these few simple steps.

  1. Select a high-quality DraftKings VPN.
  2. Purchase a VPN subscription.
  3. Download the app onto your device.
  4. Open the VPN app and connect to a server where DraftKings is available, such as the UK, or Germany.
  5. Log on to the DraftKings website, choose your game, and enjoy playing.

States where DraftKings is allowed

There are no federal laws that prohibit playing DraftKings Fantasy Sports. Individual states have the right to pass their own laws prohibiting games like those available on DraftKings. There are currently 10 states where DraftKings is illegal, including Alabama, Arizona, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa, Louisiana, Montana, Nevada, and Washington.

In what states is DraftKings legal? Playing DraftKings daily fantasy sport in the following US states is completely legal. Which games are available on the site may vary by location.

  • Arkansas
  • Colorado
  • Connecticut
  • Deleware
  • Georgia
  • Illinois
  • Indiana
  • Kansas
  • Maine
  • Maryland
  • Massachusetts
  • Minnesota
  • Mississippi
  • Missouri
  • New Hampshire
  • New Jersey
  • New York
  • North Carolina
  • Ohio
  • Pennsylvania
  • South Carolina
  • Tennessee
  • Vermont
  • Virginia

If the particular DraftKings game you want to play doesn’t show up in your state, you may be able to access it by using a DraftKings VPN and connecting to a server in another location.

States where DraftKings is blocked

You will be blocked from accessing the DrafKings website in the following US states due to online gambling restrictions or other local regulations.

  • Alabama
  • Arizona
  • California
  • Florida
  • Hawaii
  • Idaho
  • Louisiana
  • Montana
  • Nevada
  • Oregon
  • Texas
  • Washington

It is possible to bypass local blocks and access everything on the DraftKings website with a high-quality VPN.

DraftKings not working with a VPN: solutions

There are a few reasons your DraftKings VPN may not be able to bypass the DraftKings location blocks including:

  • Your browser history revealed your true location.
  • The VPN server you selected has been blocked.
  • You connected to the wrong server location.
  • Your true IP address is leaked.
  • Your VPN usage is detected.

If any of the above issues arise, here are some simple tricks to get your DraftKings VPN working for you.

  • Try connecting to a different server in a location where DraftKings is available.
  • Use a different browser.
  • Clear your cache and cookies.
  • Seek help from customer assistance.
  • Switch to a premium DraftKings VPN, like ExpressVPN.

Can I use a free VPN for DraftKings?

DraftKings is good at detecting VPN usage and free VPNs rarely have what it takes to get past the site’s strong geo-blocks, so you are going to have a hard time unblocking DraftKings using one of the free VPNs.

Using a free VPN to unblock DraftKings is also risky, as free VPNs don’t offer the same security and privacy measures you get when using one of the best DraftKing VPN services. Using a free VPN may even increase your risk for getting hacked by selling your browser history to third parties.

Annoyances like pop-up ads, lags, and dropped connections are also far too common when using free VPNs.

It’s worth getting the best DraftKings VPN you can that fit your needs and budget from our list of recommendations. You can always cancel and get a full refund.

Other gambling sites you can unblock with a VPN

Fans of sports betting, poker, and casino games can enjoy all of their favorite games on these leading online gambling websites.

  • PokerStars: One of the most popular places to go for a good round of online poker.
  • Bovada Sportsbook: Enjoy sports betting, roulette, blackjack, slots, baccarat, super 6, or poker on Bovada Sportsbook.
  • GG Poker: Whether you are a fan of Texas Hold’em and Omaha, fast-fold Rush & Cash, Spin & Gold, or Flip & Go, you can enjoy them all on the world’s largest online poker site.
  • FanDuel: Participate in sports betting, online casino games, horse racing, sportsbook, and fantasy sports at FanDuel.
  • Rollbit: Join players from all over the world on this favored crypto-casino.
  • Barstool Sportsbook: Enjoy all the fun of betting on your favorite sports teams without having to leave the comfort of your own home.

FAQs

Does a VPN work for DraftKings?

Yes! You will have no trouble unblocking DraftKings using one of the recommended VPNs from our list. Our research found ExpressVPN to be the best DraftKings VPN.

What is the best VPN for DraftKings Sportsbook?

The best VPN for DraftKings Sportsbook is ExpressVPN. It’s fast, private, secure, and you can count on it to unblock DraftKings from anywhere.

Can I play DraftKings in California?

Yes. You can play Daily Fantasy Sports on DraftKings in California, and it is legal as long as no money is involved.

Since DraftKings Sportsbook is blocked in California, you will need to use a reliable DraftKings VPN to hide your real location before you can access your DraftKings account.

Can I play DraftKings in Texas?

You can play DraftKings in Texas with help from a high-quality VPN. It may not be legal to engage in online betting in Texas, which is why the site is blocked, but you can still go onto your DraftKings account and play daily fantasy sports as long as there is no money involved.

Does ExpressVPN work with DraftKings?

Yes. ExpressVPN is the best VPN to unblock DraftKings. It is fast, secure, private, and can bypass the DraftKings blocks.

Does NordVPN work with DraftKings?

Absolutely! NordVPN can get past the DraftKings geo-blocks and provides fast and secure internet connections.

Is it legal to access DraftKings with a VPN?

It is legal to use a VPN to access DraftKings, and it is a good idea to use one to protect yourself from online threats like hackers.

It is not legal to use a VPN to participate in any illegal activities including online gambling in states where it is prohibited, so make sure you are compliant with local laws before you use your VPN to play DraftKings Sportsbook.

Conclusion

Fans can’t get enough of DraftKings daily fantasy sports!

Unfortunately, DraftKings blocks access to its site in some locations. With a high-quality VPN, however, you can easily create a virtual location and hide your real location so you can unblock DraftKings from anywhere in the world.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.