As of 2026, there is a growing desire among Chinese users to directly access Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, Hulu, and various other international streaming services on their Smart TVs. However, given the internet landscape in China, most Smart TVs are unable to reach these services without a proper, stable, and optimized VPN. This guide provides insight into the optimal solutions and how to select the best one tailored for Smart TV users in China.
1. What necessitates specialized VPN solutions for Smart TVs in China?
Smart TVs encounter distinct challenges in China:
- The Google Play Store is inaccessible;
- Most television operating systems do not support third-party APK installations;
- Streaming platforms necessitate region-specific DNS;
- Televisions exhibit lower network performance in comparison to mobile devices.
Consequently, a Smart TV typically cannot operate a VPN app directly and requires support from routers or external devices.
2. Types of Smart TV systems and associated compatibility challenges
Various TV operating systems provide varying degrees of support:
- Android TV / Google TV: Allows APK usage but lacks access to Google Play in China;
- WebOS (LG): Does not support APKs and needs router or external device assistance;
- Tizen (Samsung): Also reliant on external solutions;
- China-customized OS: Severely limited functionalities and lacks app support.
3. Essential features of top Smart TV VPN solutions
✔ 1. Router-level or entire-home mode capability
Since most Smart TVs are unable to execute standalone applications, it is crucial to select a service that provides:
- Router installation;
- Smart home routing mode;
- LAN proxy for television devices.
✔ 2. Streaming unblocking capabilities
To enable 4K streaming and access region-specific libraries, it is necessary to have:
- Servers optimized for streaming;
- Support for unlocking Netflix/Disney+;
- Dedicated IPs for streaming.
✔ 3. Compatibility with external TV devices
If your television cannot install applications, consider using:
- Fire TV Stick;
- Apple TV;
- Chromecast with Google TV;
- Nvidia Shield TV.
These devices work well with VPN.
✔ 4. Smart DNS functionality
Smart DNS is an excellent option for streaming:
- Enhanced speeds (no encryption);
- Complete streaming compatibility;
- No requirement for app installation.
✔ 5. Compatibility with casting features
Many users prefer to cast their content:
- Mobile device → TV;
- iPad → AirPlay;
- PC → Chromecast.
Only the casting device requires the VPN.
4. Top VPN options for Smart TVs in China (2026)
✔ Choice 1: High-stability router-level solution
Best suited for overall home use:
- Customized router firmware;
- Compatibility with ASUS/Merlin/OpenWRT;
- Encrypted access for all devices.
✔ Choice 2: Smart DNS streaming solution
Ideal for high-quality 4K streaming:
- Fastest speeds (no encryption);
- Unlock features for Netflix/Disney+;
- No installation required.
✔ Choice 3: Solution friendly to external devices
For those with closed operating systems on their TVs:
- Compatible with Fire TV/Google TV/Apple TV;
- Strong obfuscation measures for use in China;
- High compatibility for streaming.
5. Optimal methods to use a VPN on Smart TVs in China
Method 1: Router installation
This is the most stable and universally applicable solution.
Method 2: Smart DNS
Excellent for streaming purposes.
Method 3: External TV devices
Highly recommended for TVs with Chinese operating systems.
Method 4: Casting from mobile devices or PCs
No app installation is necessary on the television.
6. Final thoughts
In 2026, Smart TVs in China require VPN solutions that are optimized for the region, featuring:
- Router support;
- Servers optimized for streaming;
- Smart DNS capabilities;
- Obfuscation and anti-blocking mechanisms;
- Compatibility with external devices.
Cheap VPN List provides these essential features, making it a premier choice for Smart TV users in China.
