Can I stream in 4K on Amazon Fire Stick when using a VPN?

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For all its security and privacy credentials, people have been usingVPN servicesincreasingly over the years thanks to their streaming service unblocking capabilities. Subsequently, providers have made specificAmazon Fire TV Stick VPNclients for this very purpose.

But can you use one to stream in4K?

The short answer is yes - and we’ll tell you exactly what you need, from the right hardware and software, to the kind of internet speed you’ll need to confidently stream in 4K.

What do I need in order to stream in 4K?

If you’ve found yourself here you’re probably well equipped and at the final hurdle, but just in case… While it’s important you have a VPN that is up to scratch when it comes to streaming in 4K, there are a few bits of hardware you’ll need to ensure you have before hurtling ahead with all the hopes and dreams of Ultra High Definition movie marathons.

First things first, a regularAmazonFire Stick won’t do. Ditch its Lite or bog-standard iteration for theAmazon Fire TV Stick 4K- or its pricier older sibling theAmazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max- for 4K resolution support.

And that’s not all. A Fire Stick is only as strong as the TV set-up it’s plugged into. For optimum picture quality, ensure you’re hooking up your Fire TV Stick to a4K TV.

Then all you need is a VPN that can stream in 4K. Realistically, all that means is a VPN that offers consistently good speeds and a reliable connection.

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How fast does a VPN need to be to stream 4K?

It’s easy to assume you’ll need thefastest VPNin order to comfortably stream in 4K. However, while VPN speed results can make or break its ranking across our guides, it’s fair to say that a lot of the time the average Joe does not require those scores soaring above 500Mbps. Or even above 300Mbps, realistically.

In fact, in order to stream in 4K,according to Cable.co.uk you need a minimum of 25Mbps for most services. The site does go on to state you’ll likely want 25% leeway in order to cater for any more demanding action on screen and to avoid your resolution dropping mid-watch.

Considering the VPN taking the top spot as one of the speediest VPN on the market isNordVPNwith averages of 730-760Mbps, many of the VPNs featuring in our ‘best’ guide are well and truly up to the task.

What else should I look for when using a VPN to stream in 4K?

Which is the best VPN to install on my Amazon Fire Stick?

ExpressVPN - the best VPN for your Amazon Fire StickThere’s a reason ExpressVPN finds itself at the top of most of our VPN buying guides, and that’s because of its wealth of servers and security features. It’s also got a dedicated Fire TV app, which is easy to download and set up. Try now and get3 months freeand a30-day money-back guaranteeon top.

As well as being an excellent VPN in general for your Amazon Fire TV Stick,ExpressVPNticks all the boxes for streaming in 4K. With 3,000+ servers based across 94 countries, its also got competent speeds that range from 420-630Mbps, allowing you to find the most suitable server for you when it comes to watching anything anywhere in Ultra HD.

ExpressVPN is also one of the most reliablestreaming VPNproviders. In our testing, we were able to unblock Netflix libraries in a number of countries, as well as Disney Plus, Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer. For those looking to watchDisney Plus 4Ktitles are in luck, then.

Of course, we’re also big fans of ExpressVPN’s clean, intuitive interface, and this translates well onto its Amazon Fire TV Stick client.

Alice is eCommerce Editor at Future with a focus on streaming services, such asDisney PlusandHBO Max, and VPN. She predominantly writes buying and streaming service guides, as well as how to watch articles. Previously a Commercial Content Writer at Trusted Reviews, Alice has five years experience giving online buying advice, and over two years writing about consumer tech.

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