Want to experience the dopamine of a casino from the safety of your home? Then Stake is one of the best digital “gambling houses” around.
There’s a catch, though: the full-fledged casino that uses actual money is blocked in the US and many European countries. Should you just call it quits?
Slow down, young wagerer. You can easily overcome these (and other) geo-restrictions by using a VPN (virtual private network).
This deceptively simple piece of software hides your true IP address, routes your connection through a server located in another country, and bypasses barriers on your journey to all the slot machine nirvana you can possibly imagine!
Nevertheless, not all VPNs are created equal.
This is why we tested and rounded up the best VPNs for Stake, effective in providing you access to all sorts of geo-blocked content while boosting your overall security in other online activities.
We carefully evaluated different solutions available in the market and narrowed the list down to just four – all of which are known for their robust data safety features, fast connections, and a large network of server locations around the world.
Key Takeaways
- To access Stake from blocked regions, you must utilize a VPN as it can go around these limitations and provide secure access.
- When using a VPN for online gambling, it’s imperative to use consistent IP addresses while avoiding free VPNs as they don’t offer much in security and privacy.
- Our tests were conclusive – the best VPN for Stake right now is NordVPN, and you can snag it now at a 74% discount.
Here’s a general, yet comprehensive guide on the best VPN services if you want to know more.
Is Stake legitimate?
A casino and a sportsbook that accepts crypto rolled into one may ring the alarm bells for some. No reason to worry as Stake is 100% legit and considered one of the biggest names in the online gambling industry.
Its registration process alone should be enough to instill you with confidence. Similar to signing up on a major crypto site, Stake will require you to provide an international passport, a national ID card, or a driving license (both sides) before you can try your luck at the slots.
Is your information on Stake secure?
Yes! You can chalk it up to the nature of using crypto – all transactions are encrypted and 100% anonymous. There’s also two-factor authentication for an extra layer of protection.
What does Stake offer?
Plenty of goodies for casino and sports betting enthusiasts.
You can play over 670 slot games, Blackjack, Roulette, Baccarat (a game for high-rollers in huge casinos), and bet on sports events.
Even if you’re not a crypto type of person, you can easily convert fiat into cryptocurrency. Otherwise, you can always go with good old Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies such as Ripple, Ethereum, Lightcoin, and Tether.
Sounds like something worth sinking teeth into, which brings us to…
Why is Stake blocked?
It depends.
In certain countries, Stake is unavailable due to licensing issues or because betting and gambling are outlawed due to moral or religious justifications. A good example of the latter is the UAE, where it’s strictly prohibited even in digital form.
This is not a surprise, as UAE also blocks social media, porn sites, and file-sharing sites (among others) for various reasons. To check out detailed guides on how to access these websites on the spot, check out our best VPN for UAE guide.
By far, the most common reason why you’re unable to access Stake is local regulation on gambling. Stake holds a valid license from Curacao, which allows it to operate in plenty of places within South America or Europe.
However, if we look at the United States where individual states prohibit online gambling, it’s clear why Stake gets no pass there.
Here’s a message you’ll see if you try to open an account:
You may be confused as to why you’re getting an offer to switch to Stake.us but keep in mind that despite their apparent similarities, the two platforms are fundamentally different.
Sure, the same company is behind them, but Stake.us is a sweepstakes casino where fiat has no actual function – i.e. you can’t wager or win real money so it’s not classified as a gambling website.
At the time of writing, Stake.us is available in 43 states, with these seven being the exception:
- New York
- Kentucky
- Michigan
- Washington
- Idaho
- Nevada (not as “Viva Las Vegas” as you’d expect)
- Vermont
Even in areas where Stake.com is available (such as the UK), you may have to deal with restrictions such as less functionality and fewer games. Certain nations even specifically block NetEnt games (arguably the best games on the platform), drastically limiting the amount of fun and rewards you can explore. Some of these countries include:
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Colombia
- Croatia
- Israel
- Italy
- Hong Kong
- Mexico
- Romania
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
What is a VPN and how does it help you access Stake?
A virtual private network (VPN) is software that enhances your privacy and security online. The best way to describe it is as a secret little tunnel that allows you to stay safe on the internet while providing you with the means to bypass different types of geo-restrictions.
For instance, a common use for a VPN is unblocking content not available in your local area on streaming services. If you want to binge on restricted streaming content while unwinding from your online gambling adventure, here’s a guide on the best VPNs for Netflix.
A VPN consists of a client installed on your device you use to adjust various settings and connect to servers. Then, there’s the protocol, which is a method your device leverages to securely connect to a VPN server. OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2 are three common protocols.
A VPN server is the next link in the chain as it represents a single endpoint in the entire VPN network you connect to.
The last major player is the service provider – the company providing you access to a VPN network for a subscription fee.
Combine all this and you get an app that encrypts your connection between your device and a VPN server, assigning you the IP address of the server you’re located on. Put differently, it cloaks your true IP address, making it appear as if you’re in a different place altogether. Neat, right?
Since you’ll be using real money when accessing Stake, your security should come first. As such, a VPN is essential since it can improve your online safety and save you from fraud, identity theft, phishing, and malicious software. Sift through our rundown of best VPNs with antivirus if you want to spare your device from nasty malware.
How to unblock Stake with a VPN
Regardless of the VPN you end up with, the process of unblocking Stake will be pretty much the same across the board. Better yet, it’s as simple as can be:
- Register for a subscription with one of the VPNs in this guide. (Our top recommendation is NordVPN with the 74% discount.)
- Complete the payment process
- Download and install the VPN app (on mobile, you can do so through Google Play or Apple Store)
- Log in
- Connect to a server in a country where Stake is unrestricted.
That’s it! You’re free to indulge in all the fun and rewarding games this platform has to offer with no restrictions.
Ranking the best VPNs for Stake
These features are essential for a safe and private online experience, and were a primary influence on our ranking:
- Robust encryption – A quality VPN needs to implement encryptions such as AES-256 or ChaCha20.
- Secure VPN protocol – Manages the flow of data between the VPN server and a device. A good example is WireGuard, used by leading VPN services.
- No-logs policy – This ensures the provider doesn’t keep logs about your VPN use. While many VPNs claim they implement a strict no-logs policy, don’t take their word for it. The policy has to be audited by a third party. Here are the best no-logs VPNs that have been audited.
- Extensive server network – Any decent VPN provider should offer a geographically dispersed network of fast and secure VPN servers.
- Unlimited bandwidth – Some VPN companies limit the amount of content you are allowed to download in a month. Stay away from these services because the leaders in the industry don’t implement any limits on VPN usage.
In addition to these traits, we looked at extra features that boost your overall online security and can minimize issues when accessing Stake.
Obfuscated servers will mask your VPN traffic and pass it off as a regular form of HTTPS internet traffic – useful if you want to avoid being noticed by filters on Stake. A similar thing applies to VPN kill switches that eliminate the chance of your real IP showing through if the VPN connection dies.
Most VPNs on this list also include ad blockers, private DNS servers, and split tunneling – all of which will level up your VPN journey.
You’ve waited long enough, here are the best VPNs for Stake:
1. NordVPN: The ultimate VPN for Stake
Website | NordVPN.com |
Based in | Panama |
Logs | No logs (audited) |
Price | $2.99/mo. |
Support | 24/7 live chat |
Refund | 30 days |
Deal | 74% Off Coupon |
When betting online, you need a fast and stable pathway to the platform and NordVPN fits the bill perfectly. Not only that, it also comes packed with life-saving security functions you’ll definitely appreciate in your general day-to-day browsing.
NordVPN is by far the best VPN for Stake available at the moment. As you can see in the screenshot below, we used the NordVPN desktop app to connect to a server in Canada, allowing us to go past Stake’s geo-restriction – success!
We already discussed the non-negotiables in the VPN category, and NordVPN checks each and every box! Here’s just a partial list of features it brings to the table:
- Default VPN protocol NordLynx is basically WireGuard on steroids, providing additional security without compromising performance. Because of this, NordVPN is considered the best WireGuard VPN.
- It employs an uncompromising no-logs policy audited by the likes of Deloitte Audit Lithuania as recently as Q4 of 2023.
- Threat Protection is included in the basic NordVPN subscription and works amazingly for blocking annoying ads and stopping malware and trackers. To learn more, here’s a list of the best VPNs with ad blocking.
- NordVPN provides 6,400+ secure, diskless servers located in over 111 countries.
See all NordVPN features here >
Do note that these numbers apply to the NordLynx protocol. To stay as safe as possible when accessing Stake, be sure to enable the kill switch and Threat Protection feature described above.
In terms of speeds, NordVPN usually outperforms its competition. You can see this in our NordVPN vs IPVanish test report as well as the NordVPN vs ProtonVPN comparison.
All NordVPN servers are fast, as evidenced in the speed tests we did for the NordVPN review. Below is one such result where we achieved download speeds over 750 Mbps on NordVPN's US servers.
Another reason why it’s impossible to go wrong with NordVPN is its extraordinary customer support. With 24/7 live chat support, help will always be at your disposal, regardless of the time of day.
But how much do you have to pay for all of this?
You’d be surprised, but NordVPN is cheaper than its less powerful competitors. Plus, you can unlock a massive discount by opting for a 2-year subscription and also receive three months extra. If you decide NordVPN isn’t the right match for you, you can take advantage of the 30-day money-back guarantee.
+ Pros
- User-friendly and reliable apps
- Double VPN andOnion Over VPN servers
- Passed numerous 3rd-party audits
- Strong encryption standards with full support for WireGuard
- Works with Netflix and many streaming sites
- Threat Protection feature to block ads, trackers, and malware
- Professional 24/7 live chat support
- Consistently fast speeds
- Dedicated RAM-servers with 10 Gbps bandwidth channels
– Cons
- Best discounts only available with 2-year plans
NordVPN's Holiday Deal is live:
Get 74% Off NordVPN with 2-year subscriptions plus 3 extra months:
(Coupon is applied automatically; 30 day money-back guarantee.)
Need more info before pulling the trigger on this VPN service? Take a look at our full NordVPN review.
2. Surfshark: Affordable and secure Stake VPN
Website | Surfshark.com |
Based in | The Netherlands |
Logs | No logs (audited) |
Price | $1.99/mo. |
Support | 24/7 live chat |
Refund | 30 days |
Deal | 87% Off Coupon |
When compared to other VPNs on this list, Surfshark is a bit of a newcomer. However, this VPN packs a hefty punch. With fast connections, wallet-friendly pricing, and absolutely no compromises in the privacy department, Surfshark is a great VPN for unblocking Stake.
Along with the basics, this vendor also offers unlimited simultaneous connections, giving you even more value for your buck.
In the screenshot below, you can see that Surfshark is effective in bypassing Stake’s restrictions in the US and elsewhere.
When it comes to speed, Surfshark also delivers. Granted, it’s slightly slower than NordVPN, as you can see in the NordVPN vs Surfshark comparison, but you probably won’t notice the difference in playing Stake games or when doing bandwidth-intensive tasks.
Here’s the speed you can expect:
Surfshark supports different protocols (including WireGuard) and usually manages to outperform most other VPNs. You can see this in the Surfshark vs ProtonVPN comparison, for example.
How does Surfshark compare to NordVPN in terms of more advanced security features?
Here are some of the functions that are a testament to this provider’s versatility:
- Bypasser – Surfshark’s name for classic split tunneling – check out the best VPNs with split tunneling.
- Camouflage mode – Enable this function if you want to make use of obfuscated servers for maximum privacy.
- CleanWeb – Effective ad blocker pulling double-duty as a tool for blocking malware domains and trackers.
- PrivateDNS – Bypasses your DNS queries through the VPN and routes them to a private DNS, ensuring your ISP can’t see your search history.
- NoBorders mode – Automatically transfers you to a new server if you run into any censorship online.
- Search – Full-featured private search engine where no record of your internet activities gets stored.
See all Surfshark VPN features here >
Another similarity between Surfshark and the mighty NordVPN is the fact all servers are diskless, meaning they don’t store user data. This is a big deal, as it protects your information even if Surfshark’s servers are physically seized.
Moreover, with Surfhsark’s multi-hop connections, all of your internet shenanigans will be hidden by two VPN servers instead of just one.
With 3200+ servers in 100 countries, 24/7 customer support, and a 30-day money-back guarantee, Surfshark is a mighty contender for the top spot of best VPNs for Stake.
+ Pros
- Unlimited connections
- User-friendly apps for all devices and operating systems
- CleanWeb feature to block ads, trackers, and malware
- Works great with Netflix and many other streaming services
- 24/7 live chat support
- Strong encryption and security features (audited)
– Cons
- Limited support for VPN routers
- Above average monthly prices
Surfshark VPN Coupon:
Get 87% off Surfshark VPN plus an additional 4 months extra with the coupon below:
(Coupon is applied automatically; 30 day money-back guarantee)
Need more info? Go through our dedicated Surfshark VPN review.
ExpressVPN: High-speed VPN for seamless Stake access
Website | ExpressVPN.com |
Based in | British Virgin Islands |
Logs | No logs (audited) |
Price | $6.67/mo. |
Support | 24/7 live chat |
Refund | 30 days |
Deal | 49% Off Coupon |
ExpressVPN has been around for what seems like ages (you’ve probably seen an ad or two at least once). The real question is how this VPN service compares to other names on this list.
It inches closely to the top two. It’s dependable and easy to use and while it doesn’t offer all the bells and whistles of Surfshark and NordVPN, you can expect a top-level service from this provider – especially if your main goal is unblocking Stake.
You can see ExpressVPN overcoming the pesky Stake geo-block with ease in the screenshot below:
ExpressVPN has thousands of fast and secure diskless servers located in 105 countries (24 in the US alone), so you’re safe in terms of coverage. They also adhere to a firm, third-party audited no-logs policy, which assists you in maintaining complete anonymity online.
Talking about essential security features, things are lookin’ good. This provider offers the kill switch (as expected) and private DNS, while the company’s overall claim to fame is that all the versions of its apps are leak-proof.
Other, more advanced tools you can expect to find if you subscribe to ExpressVPN include:
- Threat Manager – In charge of protecting your device from trackers and malware and removing ads.
- Device Groups – Allows simultaneous connections of up to five devices to different servers.
- Split Tunneling – Option of letting websites or apps pass around the VPN.
(opens in a new tab)”>See all ExpressVPN features here >
ExpressVPN is by no means slow. In fact, it offers a much better performance than most of its competitors – look no further than the direct ExpressVPN vs CyberGhost clash. Still, it can’t compare to NordVPN or Surfshark.
Here’s a speed test to illustrate our point:
Express VPN is also more expensive than its counterparts on this list (not one of the best cheap VPNs). The steep price of admission and slightly slower speed may be enough to turn you toward other VPNs, but the simplicity and reliability are hard to ignore – both of which you get when you sign up for ExpressVPN.
Furthermore, this provider’s 24/7 team is nothing short of excellent and you also get a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can test drive this VPN with no risk.
+ Pros
- User-friendly and secure apps
- Split tunneling feature (for macOS, Windows, and routers)
- Works with Netflix and most streaming services
- 24/7 live chat support
- Passed independent third-party audits for security and no-logs
- Very large server network
– Cons
- Above average prices
- Fewer features than other leading VPNs
ExpressVPN Coupon:
Sign up for the 12-month plan and get 3 months added to your subscription for free.
(Coupon is applied automatically.)
Our in-depth ExpressVPN review will provide you with a full picture.
IPVanish: Reliable VPN with extensive server coverage
Website | IPVanish.com |
Based in | USA |
Logs | No logs (audited) |
Price | $2.19/mo. |
Support | Email and Chat |
Refund | 30 days |
Deal | 83% Off Coupon |
While not as fast or as steadfast as the “big three” listed above, IPVanish is successful in sidestepping Stake’s geographical restrictions, while also boasting various security features.
Here’s a screenshot showing IPVanish in action:
How fast is it?
Strap yourself in, because IPVanish has the potential to take off. It gave us the fastest speed test results we ever conducted. Just check out those 829 Mbps:
Still, IPVanish can be inconsistent when it comes to download speeds. While it did outperform the likes of Surfhsark and NordVPN in some tests, we noticed they are on average much faster than this “little VPN that could” – still impressive nonetheless.
In other areas, IPVanish brings the heat. It has over 850 servers in 60 countries and there are no limits on how many times you’re allowed to switch servers until you find the one with the fastest connections.
But what about security features?
Let’s take a closer look:
- Unlimited connections – You can use IPVanish on as many devices as you need.
- Obfuscated servers – Switch to OpenVPN and the VPN will mask the fact your internet traffic is encrypted.
- Rotating IP – Cycle your IP address automatically at a set time interval.
- Threat protection – At no extra charge, IPVanish also provides you with an ad blocker and eliminates trackers and malware.
IPVanish upholds a strict no-logs policy, but you may still feel iffy about providing them with your information. Sadly, this provider doesn’t allow crypto payments, which means you’ll have to use your actual name and address for billing purposes. Moreover, it’s based in the USA – a country that can get pretty aggressive on surveillance.
Like other best VPNs for Stake, IPVanish has amazing 24/7 customer support and you can always take advantage of a 30-day money-back guarantee on 2-year and annual plans.
+ Pros
- Strong security features, multiple VPN protocols, and a kill switch
Extremely fast and reliable connection speeds
Wide range of reliable apps
Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Audited, no-logs policy
Ability to unblock popular streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer
Cons
- No cryptocurrency payment options
- Based in the United States
Our IPVanish review is a must-read if you’re considering using this VPN.
Tips for safe online gambling with a VPN
The prospect of partaking in online gambling is exhilarating, sure. Yet, it doesn’t mean you should throw caution to the wind.
For starters, only use a VPN with a kill switch function. As the name suggests, this function is akin to an emergency brake keeping your real IP address hidden if your connection fails.
In a similar vein, go for a solution with RAM-only servers as these don’t store traces of your activities. When you reboot the VPN, data on what you did while connected to the server simply disappears.
All four VPNs listed above employ all of these features, so you’re all set.
A word of advice; you should maintain a consistent IP address when using Stake, especially when withdrawing funds. Frequent changes in your IP address could set off alarms for the provider. You can easily avoid issues by using a static IP address or connecting to only one server when using Stake.
Why free VPNs are not recommended for Stake
Go to an app store or do a quick Google search and you’ll run across a bunch of free VPNs. You may feel the urge to save a few dollars a month but don’t give in to it. Free VPNs look the part, but there’s a high possibility they’ll only land you in a world of trouble.
No, you’re not going to receive a cease-and-desist from Stake, but you will have a horrible time.
Free VPNs are often sluggish and will destroy your internet connection and ruin your experience. Get ready for data caps that will cut your games short. Servers on such services are generally overcrowded and may get you blacklisted from Stake.
You’ll also have to contend with tons of ads slowly chipping away at your bandwidth. Even worse, free VPNs are notorious for exposing you to trackers and malware.
Perhaps the biggest problem is the fact freebies only offer minimal features in the security department. For example, most don’t employ a kill switch, which means your anonymity will be compromised as soon as your connection cuts out.
Free VPNs, for all their cost-effectiveness, do come at the expense of your data privacy. They have been caught multiple times selling user data – a huge price to pay.
What are the best VPN locations for Stake?
Nothing beats the feeling of finding THE perfect VPN server. Since Stake is blocked completely in certain places or limited in others, you need to connect to a server where you can get the full Stake experience.
We’ll do the research for you – just connect to the great ol’ Canada (go for Vancouver as servers in Ontario were blocked in 2024), and you’ll have access to all the games on the platform, including NetEnt.
It’s important to stress that nothing is ever safe in the digital landscape and what’s a perfect location today might get blocked tomorrow. This is why you should stay updated on Stake’s terms of service.
Can Stake detect VPN usage?
Platforms that implement geo-blocks are very strict and always on the lookout for those “forcing” themselves in – and Stake isn’t an exception.
Fortunately, a reliable VPN will cloak your true IP address, ensuring the doors to Stake always remain open.
Still, even the best VPN in the world won’t stop you from being caught because of verification failures or suspicious behaviors. In other words, you’re good if you act normal and avoid switching servers mid-game. After all, there’s the kill switch that will stop your IP address from leaking so you can always hit the slots with confidence.
Is accessing Stake with a VPN legal?
It's important to note that circumventing geo-blocks on different platforms is somewhat of a legal gray area.
The worst thing that can happen is you’ll end up with a ban and lose the assets in your Stake wallet, but that’s about it. The risk of serious legal repercussions appears to be almost non-existent, at least if you’re using the best VPNs for Stake we covered today. That said, we're not lawyers, so follow the guidance in your own jurisdiction.
Troubleshooting common VPN issues with Stake
VPNs, just like any other software, will eventually act up. Don’t panic. You’ve got this and can solve most issues by implementing a few classic fixes.
For example, it’s quite common to lose your connection while using a VPN. If this happens, log out of Stake, restart your VPN app, and try again. Many users also report an issue where they can’t connect to a VPN server. In most cases, you can solve this by clearing your browser cache.
If you can’t solve the problem on your own, all the VPNs we suggested offer a live chat service available round the clock. Whatever it is, they’ll help you navigate the troubleshooting process.
What else can a VPN do for me?
VPNs are versatile tools and their utility goes beyond accessing gambling sites – you’ll be able to use them to unblock every platform out there. Case in point: a guide on the best VPNs for BBC iPlayer – a free streaming service with a bunch of top-tier shows.
From shielding your online activity from the prying eyes of hackers and ISPs, all the way to securing your connection while using public Wi-Fi networks, a VPN does it all. Look at it as a Swiss Army Knife for your online escapades.
You can also use a VPN to get better deals on flights or hotels. Connect to a server in a country with lower earning standards and get access to better prices! When you think about it, the VPN subscription will pay for itself.
Conclusion: Unlock Stake and play safe
You can spend years busting your head over stringent internet gambling laws in your country, or you can use software to take matters into your own hands. Bypassing restrictions on online gambling and playing games on platforms like Stake is an easy feat for a premium VPN solution.
All the VPNs covered today can circumvent gambling site restrictions (and geo-blocks on almost every website) while serving as a sidekick in your battle for total internet anonymity.
Even though ExpressVPN, Surfhsark, and IPVanish have plenty of positive sides, our testing is definitive – NordVPN is the most well-rounded and comprehensive tool out there for an unrestricted browsing experience and maximum online safety.
Good luck! Don’t spend all your crypto in one place!
Other VPN Gambling Guides:
- Best VPNs for Gambling Online
- Best VPNs for bet365
- Best VPNs for FanDuel
- Best VPNs for Online Casinos
- Best VPNs for Online Poker
- Best VPNs for PokerStars
- Best VPNs for PrizePicks
- Best VPNs for Sports Betting
- How to Unblock Stake
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I legally use a VPN to play on Stake?
Accessing Stake with a VPN violates the platform’s terms of service and may result in your account being terminated. The legality depends on your country’s laws and local jurisdiction. This is why it’s so important to hide your activities with a good VPN.
What happens if my connection drops while I’m gambling on Stake?
The kill switch feature will activate and block your access to the internet. This protects your real IP address and maintains your privacy on the platform.
What VPN server is the best for accessing Stake?
The fastest set of servers in an area with no restricted content on Stake is located in Canada. Keep in mind that local regulations have led to Stake getting blocked in the region of Ontario, so we suggest connecting to a Vancouver server.
Are there any other benefits of using a VPN besides accessing Stake?
Absolutely! A VPN strengthens your online security, protects your privacy, and allows you to access geo-blocked content on a variety of platforms.
This guide to the best VPNs for Stake was last updated on July 5, 2024.
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