Swiss channels are barricaded within the country by an invisible digital wall. You won’t even think about it when you’re in Switzerland because you only need a subscription (and maybe not even that) to access all the content you want. But it’s a different story when you try to watch Swiss television abroad.
If you’re far away from the breathtaking Alps, geo-restrictions step in to prevent you from catching up on the latest news updates, gripping dramas, and other programs on TV.
But fear not. With the right approach (using a VPN), you can break through to stream your favorite TV channels from anywhere in the world. In this article, we’ll look at how to access Swiss TV channels abroad and throw in the best VPN providers as a bonus.
Why You Need a VPN to watch Swiss TV Abroad
You’re enjoying your trip overseas but craving a piece of home — you know, as most travelers do. Maybe it’s the comfort of familiar voices on your favorite talk show or the thrilling suspense of a local crime drama. Or maybe you just want to stay connected to Swiss current affairs.
So you head over to the website of one of your regular channels and settle in to stream. Except you meet a message like this even before you click “Play”:
Frustrating, right? The issue? Geo-restrictions.
Most Swiss TV channels are locked down within the country’s borders, thanks to copyright and licensing agreements and the restrictions that enforce them. The platforms detect your location through your IP address, identify you as outside Switzerland, and immediately block your access.
Good thing a VPN can come to the rescue. You only need to connect to a VPN server in Switzerland, and it will mask your IP address and temporarily assign you a Swiss IP address. In essence, it will make it appear as if you’re connecting from within the country, even if you’re thousands of miles away.
It’s a clever disguise that bypasses those pesky geo-restrictions and fools Swiss TV channels into granting you a way in.
How to Watch Swiss TV Abroad in 4 Steps
Using a VPN to unlock content is pretty simple, and we’ll show you how. You should follow the steps below with a capable provider with Swiss servers.
We recommend NordVPN, the best VPN for Switzerland.
Step 1: Choose a VPN Service
You need a subscription to a trustworthy VPN service. Several providers offer servers in Switzerland, but you want more than that. Your preferred VPN must offer excellent unblocking abilities, speedy connections for streaming, and top-notch privacy and security.
In addition to NordVPN, we’ll introduce you to other alternatives below.
Step 2: Subscribe
Next, visit the VPN’s official website and sign up for a VPN plan that fits your preferences and budget. Choose a payment plan and complete the transaction to activate your account.
Step 3: Install the VPN App
Most top VPNs have apps for various platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android and even Apple TV. Download the version for your device on the website or an official smartphone app store.
Double-click the downloaded file and follow the instructions to set it up. If you run into any issues, check the VPN’s website for installation guides or contact a customer care representative.
Step 4: Connect to a Swiss Server
Launch the VPN and log in using your newly created account credentials. Navigate to the server selection menu and choose one located in Switzerland. Double-click the server or click the Connect button on the home screen to establish a connection.
Consequently, the VPN will replace your IP address with one assigned to that server, effectively masking your location and making it appear like you’re coming online while in Switzerland.
Now you’re ready to enjoy Swiss TV from anywhere in the world. Head back to the TV channel website or app to catch up with the live program on air.
The Best VPNs to Watch Swiss TV Abroad
These VPN providers have the best combination of speed, unblocking, server networks, compatibility, and security you need in a VPN for streaming TV content abroad.
Let’s briefly discuss them in turn.
1. NordVPN
NordVPN consistently tops most VPN rankings, and for good reason. It has a vast network, with upwards of 6,300 servers in 111 countries. That includes 100+ in Zurich and other Swiss locations.
This massive presence translates to smooth, reliable unblocking of all major Swiss TV channels. So, if, for instance, you can’t wait to watch the latest MotoGP live on SRF, RSI, RTS, or ServusTV, NordVPN has you covered.
What’s more, it lets you stream your favorite shows on services like Netflix US and Switzerland, BBC iPlayer and Hulu with ease, no matter where you are.
10 Gbps servers and its custom speed-friendly protocol, NordLynx, ensure that you enjoy smooth streaming, even if a video is high-definition or higher.
You needn’t worry about hackers or snoops while you stream, as the VPN encrypts your traffic with AES 256-bit encryption. It’s also IP and DNS leak-proof and layers the protection with a kill switch and impressive Threat Protection. NordVPN will not store your logs on its servers — RAM-only servers and an independent audit have made sure of that.
The provider works with many devices you can stream on, from your computer to your smartphone and smart TV, allowing up to 10 simultaneous connections.
A 24/7 live chat addresses any concerns, but a 30-day money-back guarantee lets you claim a refund if you’re not impressed.
2. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is another popular option for watching Swiss TV from outside Switzerland. It has more than 3,000 servers globally and offers servers in Zurich, so you can get a Swiss IP address from anywhere.
You won’t find many better providers for unblocking region-exclusive websites and online services. Because ExpressVPN effortlessly sweeps past geo-restrictions, you can catch a Formula 1 live stream or stream local content on Zattoo and other services.
International streaming sites like Netflix and Hulu have tougher roadblocks, but even those are no match for this provider.
Plus, the name is no empty boast; ExpressVPN is easily one of the fastest VPNs around. Like NordVPN, it has 10 Gbps servers that are fast enough to stream high-quality video resolutions without frustrating interruptions.
ExpressVPN employs military-grade encryption to shield your online traffic from your ISP and malicious actors. You also get an automatic kill switch, IP/DNS leak protection, and a strict no-logs policy that has undergone third-party scrutiny. What’s more, its TrustedServer technology ensures that each server always runs up-to-date software.
The provider offers clients for most popular operating systems and devices. So, you can stream on whichever device you prefer, with a single subscription covering up to eight at the same time. The provider offers up to 30 days to make up your mind.
3. CyberGhost
CyberGhost fits the bill if you’re looking for a budget option to watch Swiss TV from abroad — at least if you’re going with a long-term subscription plan.
But pricing isn’t the only reason we like this VPN. For instance, it has more servers than its competitors on this list, offering over 11,300 connection options across 100 countries. More than 150 of those servers are in Huenenberg and Zurich.
With its specially optimized servers, the provider effectively unblocks access to loads of TV and streaming content. Swiss platforms like Play SRF and RTS CH are included in that category, ensuring you can watch your favorite programs without hassles.
The VPN also works with American Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Disney Plus, and more. It’s fast enough to stream HD content buffer-free, especially when you use WireGuard.
CyberGhost implements AES 256-bit encryption to protect your data from various cyber threats. A reliable kill switch prevents leaks during an interruption in your connection. Worried about leaving digital breadcrumbs that can expose your online identity? Don’t be; the VPN has a strict, verified zero-logs policy and uses RAM-based servers.
CyberGhost is compatible with many platforms and devices, and you’re permitted to connect to seven devices simultaneously. Choose a plan that’s six months or longer, and you have an industry-leading 45-day money-back guarantee.
How We Selected the Best Swiss TV Providers
Randomly subscribing to the first VPN with Swiss servers you find online may give you access to the local TV platforms you need. On the other hand, that VPN may be a dud that’s unreliable or exposes your sensitive information to prying eyes.
To streamline your options, we set out to identify the premier options that meet our trusty criteria below:
- Server Coverage: We prioritized VPN services with extensive networks (think thousands of servers across scores of countries), including Switzerland, for buffer-free viewing.
- Speed: Buffering ruins a good streaming experience. That’s why we only considered VPNs known for their lightning-fast connection speeds.
- Geo-unblocking: We made sure that the VPNs we selected can effortlessly bypass geo-restrictions on Swiss (and international) TV platforms and streaming services. That way, you can say goodbye to location-based content limitations.
- Privacy and Security: Your online privacy matters, even if you’re only interested in streaming Swiss TV. So, we prioritized VPNs with top-notch features like military-grade encryption, a kill switch, leak protection, and a strict no-log policy.
- Compatibility: Want to watch Swiss TV abroad on your laptop, phone, streaming device, or even your smart TV? No problem — the providers we picked adapt to pretty much any device you can watch television on.
- User-friendliness: Don’t worry about complicated setups. Our chosen VPNs are user-friendly, which means they cater to both tech-savvy users and beginners alike.
- Money-Back Guarantee: Feeling unsure? Don’t worry; each VPN on this list has a money-back guarantee, so you can try it out risk-free.
Can You Watch Swiss TV Abroad With a Free VPN?
We get it — you’d rather unblock access to Swiss TV channels without having to pay a subscription. Many other people are in the same boat.
Unfortunately, while there are a handful of free VPNs we like, most in that category are rarely ever as capable as advertised.
For one, they typically have smaller server footprints compared to paid options. This means fewer (or more likely no) servers in Switzerland, which can lead to high congestion and slower speeds. As we mentioned earlier, slow connection speeds make streaming a frustrating experience, filled with buffering and lag.
Plus, free providers rarely have the resources and technology to consistently bypass the geo-restrictions TV and streaming platforms use. But even if they unblock the channels, you may face data caps and bandwidth limits.
Finally, there are usually privacy and security concerns to worry about due to extensive logging and subpar features.
All things considered, investing in a reputable paid VPN service is always the smarter choice.
Conclusion
Why wait until you’re back home in Switzerland to catch up on the television programs you miss? A quality Swiss VPN circumvents the geo-restrictions on local TV channels, so you can stream them online even if you’re overseas. You only need to follow the simple guide provided in this article, and you’re set.
That said, VPNs are not all on the same level when it comes to reliably providing a gateway to region-blocked content. Following extensive testing, we recommend NordVPN as the best VPN to watch Swiss TV abroad with, thanks to its exceptional unblocking capabilities, lightning-fast connection speeds, and impeccable privacy features.
FAQs
Why do I need a VPN to watch Swiss TV abroad?
Swiss TV channels use geo-restrictions to block viewers outside Switzerland. However, A VPN masks your location, making it appear you’re connecting from within the country. This bypasses the restrictions and lets you enjoy live programs on TV.
Which Swiss TV channels can I watch abroad with a VPN?
A quality VPN with servers in Switzerland can unblock just about any local TV network or platform. That includes SRF, RTS, RSI, ZDF, TVM3, and Zattoo with its collection of channels.
