If you’re a movie buff trying to watch Criterion Channel in Italy, you might already know the pain of geo-restrictions. This premium film streaming service is a gold mine for those who cherish Hollywood classics and indie films, but sadly, it’s not available everywhere.
With it, you can unlock the Criterion Channel’s extensive library, which includes treasures like Animal Shorts and Amelie. Geo-blocks no longer have to ruin your movie nights. To get started, download ExpressVPN, connect to a US server, and you’ll be all set to enjoy the Criterion Channel’s offerings.
How to Watch Criterion Channel in Italy [Quick Steps]
Here’s a quick guide on how to watch the Criterion channel in Italy:
- Get a premium VPN subscription like ExpressVPN.
- Download and install the VPN app for your streaming device.
- Launch the VPN app and sign in to your account.
- Connect to a fast US server (I recommended New York).
- Head over to the Criterion Channel and enjoy your favorite Hollywood classics in Italy!
Note: I have got an enticing discount on ExpressVPN and sharing it here so you can get it too – IT€6.14/mo (US$6.67/mo) - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free.
Why do You Need a VPN to Watch Criterion Channel in Italy?
You need a VPN to watch Criterion Channel in Italy because it is geographically restricted and available only in the USA and Canada. Without a VPN, you’ll encounter an error message denying access when trying to use its website or app.
“Sorry. This is currently unavailable in your region.”
You can only watch Criterion Channel in Italy with a VPN.
A VPN masks the real IP address and replaces it with one from the US, thus allowing seamless access to the Criterion collection streaming service. However, to smoothly bypass the geo-limitations on Criterion Channel, using a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN is recommended.
Quick Overview of the 3 Best VPNs for Criterion Channel in Italy
After rigorously testing over 50 VPNs, here’s a quick overview of the top three VPNs for streaming the Criterion Channel in Italy:
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|---|---|---|
|
Best VPN to Watch Criterion Channel in Italy |
Pocket-friendly VPN to Watch Criterion Channel in Italy |
Largest Server Network VPN to Watch Criterion Channel in Italy |
| Thousands of servers in 105 countries | 3200+ servers in over 100+ countries | 6000+ ultra-fast servers in 61 countries |
| 8 simultaneous connections | Unlimited simultaneous connections | 6 simultaneous connections |
| 5.0/5.0 stars | 4.5/5.0 stars | 4.5/5.0 |
|
Get ExpressVPN -#1 VPN My Top Recommendation
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Get Surfshark -#2 VPN Budget-Friendly VPN
|
Get NordVPN -#3 VPN Largest Server Network
|
How to Create a Criterion Channel Account in Italy?
- Get a premium VPN subscription like ExpressVPN.
- Download the VPN app and connect to a US server (preferably New York).
- Visit the Criterion Channel website and click on the “START FREE TRIAL” option.
Click on the Start Free Trial option.
- Provide your email address and set a password.
Enter your credentials.
- Enter your payment details, and enter the promo code (if any).
Enter billing method and other information.
- Click on the “Start subscription” button.
- Viola! You have just created a Criterion Channel account.
- Log in to your account and start streaming!
Note: The Criterion Channel offers two different pricing plans and a 14-day free trial for new users.
Want to know how much is Criterion channel? Head over to the next section for the Criterion channel price.
How Much Does the Criterion Channel Cost?
The Criterion subscription is offered with two different pricing plans. The monthly subscription costs EUR€ 10.11 /mo (US$ 10.99 /mo ) or you can opt for its yearly subscription which costs EUR€ 92.02 /yr (US$ 99.99 /yr ) .
The yearly package is comparatively more cost-effective if you are planning to keep the subscription for the long term.
New users also get a generous Criterion Channel free trial for 14 days unlike many popular streaming services nowadays. It’s a wonderful option to explore the content library of the Criterion Channel before you shell out your precious bucks on an extended subscription plan.
There are no Criterion Channel subscription discount available at the moment, however, to have a taste of what this service offers, you can sign up for a free trial. Also, there is no Criterion Channel student discount as of May 2024.
How to Pay for Criterion Channel in Italy
Here are the steps for each payment method to subscribe to the Criterion Channel in Italy:
Paying with a Credit or Debit Card
- Go to the Criterion Channel’s official website.
- Click on the sign-up button to create a new account or log in if you already have one.
- Choose between a monthly subscription or a yearly subscription.
- Provide your credit or debit card information in the designated fields.
- Review your subscription details and confirm the payment to start streaming.
Using a Criterion Channel Gift Card
- Navigate to the Criterion Channel website.
- Sign up for a new account if you don’t already have one or log in.
- Select the “Redeem a Gift Card” option from your account or during the signup process.
- Type in your gift card code in the provided field.
- Click “Redeem” to apply the gift card balance to your account and begin your subscription.
Paying with PayPal
- Open the Criterion Channel website in your browser.
- Sign up for an account or log into your existing account.
- During the subscription process, select PayPal as your payment method.
- You will be redirected to PayPal’s login page where you should sign in to your account.
- Review the payment details and click “Agree & Pay” to finalize the subscription.
- Once your payment is processed, you can start watching movies and shows on the Criterion Channel.
What are the Best VPNs to Get Criterion Channel in Italy [In-Depth Analysis]
I tested over 50 VPN apps to find the best VPNs to get Criterion Channel in Italy and shortlisted the following three VPNs:
1.ExpressVPN: Recommended VPN to Access Criterion Channel in Italy
- Blazing-Fast Speeds: Offers fastest servers optimized for streaming
- Use it Everywhere: Works seamlessly on a wide range of devices and platforms.
- Unmatched Performance: 24/7 customer service, top-tier server speeds, 8 simultaneous connections
ExpressVPN is way ahead of its competitors when it comes to speed, unblocking features, and overall performance. Hence, it’s my recommended VPN to access Criterion Channel in Italy.
If I talk about speed, this VPN means business and offers up to an impressive 92.26 Mbps downloading speed.
It offers 3,000+ servers in 105 countries, including several servers in 25+ server locations in the US that help you bypass the geo-restrictions of the Criterion Channel.
I easily accessed The Criterion Channel in Italy through ExpressVPN.
As its name suggests, ExpressVPN is about express streaming speeds. During its speed test, this VPN has proved to be the fastest with an impressive downloading speed of 92.26 Mbps and an uploading speed of 89.45 Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection.
ExpressVPN gave fast speed on a base connection of 100 Mbps.
ExpressVPN has a proven track record of unblocking popular streaming services. You can use it to unblock YouTube TV, WAPA America, and HBO Max easily in Italy.
This VPN is a treasure trove of amazing features, such as the MediaStreamer. This Smart DNS tool helps in unblocking geo-restricted content on those devices that don’t support VPN configuration.
You can use one ExpressVPN subscription on 8 devices at a time. Speaking about compatibility, it’s supported by Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. The provider also works on Firestick, Apple TV, Roku, Game Consoles, and other streaming devices.
ExpressVPN features next-generation security, with AES-256-bit data encryption, a No-logging policy, and an Automated Kill Switch, among a bunch of other features.
You can get a subscription to ExpressVPN for just IT€6.14/mo (US$6.67/mo) - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free, inclusive of a 30-day money-back warranty and 24/7 customer support.
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- Perfect streaming time
- Compatible with all devices
- Unblocks all streaming sites
- Cost is higher than some alternatives
2.Surfshark: Budget-Friendly VPN to Get Criterion Channel in Italy
- Unlimited Devices: Connects all your devices simultaneously with one account
- Pocket-friendly Prices: Offers premium features at low prices
- Compatibility: Works seamlessly with all the devices
Surfshark is the most budget-friendly VPN to get Criterion Channel in Italy. It offers the best value for money with highly affordable plans and unlimited simultaneous connections.
You can get this VPN for as low as IT€2.29/mo (US$2.49/mo) - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee, including a 30-day money-back guarantee.
This VPN comes with 3200+ servers in 100+ countries, including 600+ servers in the United States. You can connect to its New York server and unblock the Criterion Channel in Italy.
Surfshark easily lets you access The Criterion channel in Italy.
Surfshark is not just about affordability, rather it’s super-quick as well. On a 100 Mbps connection, it offered a commanding downloading speed of 88.48 Mbps and an uploading speed of 79.42 Mbps.
Surfshark offers the best streaming speed at affordable rates
With an extensive US network, Surfshark also lets you watch Peacock, Pandora, and Hallmark Channel conveniently in Italy.
Surfshark is compatible with Windows, Android, macOS, Linux, and iOS. You can even share your Surfshark credentials with friends and family as it does not have any limit on the number of devices connected simultaneously.
In terms of security, it offers some of the most useful features and secures your online presence with AES 256-bit encryption, No-logging, RAM-only servers, and an Automated Kill Switch.
If you want to subscribe to Surfshark, here is a deal – IT€2.29/mo (US$2.49/mo) - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee. Sign up and enjoy Criterion movie streaming.
- Low cost
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Easily unblocks all streaming sites
- Speeds can vary depending on server load and location.
3.NordVPN: Largest Server Network VPN to Watch Criterion Channel in Italy
- Largest Server Network: Offers 6000+ ultra-fast servers in 61 countries, mostly optimized for streaming
- SmartPlay feature: Helps in streaming even on VPN non-compatible devices
- Robust Security: Ensures 100% privacy while you are enjoying your favorite content
NordVPN is a mix and match of affordability, security, and speed. It’s also the largest server network VPN to watch Criterion Channel in Italy, offering 6000+ ultra-fast servers in 61 countries.
It offers 1970+ dedicated servers in the US to help you bypass the geo-blocking of the Criterion Channel outside US.
Watch your preferred content on The Criterion Channel in Italy through NordVPN.
NordVPN is super speedy, offers unlimited bandwidth, and provides stable connections. On a 100 Mbps connection, it cranked up a brisk downloading speed of 86.49 Mbps and an uploading speed of 79.42 Mbps.
With NordVPN, we could binge-watch our favorite streaming services without any buffering.
NordVPN allows six simultaneous connections per account and can be configured on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.
This VPN also excels in providing top-notch security features, including AES 256-bit Encryption, NordLynx Protocol, Obfuscated Servers, a Kill Switch, and a Double VPN.
Get a NordVPN subscription now for only IT€3.67/mo (US$3.99/mo) - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free for a friend and also enjoy a 30-day money-back guarantee. For any help, the customer support team of NordVPN is available 24/7.
As a reader of this blog, you are recommended to sign up for NordVPN’s exclusive deal and IT€3.67/mo (US$3.99/mo) - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free for a friend.
- Extensive server network
- Top-notch security protocols
- Exceptional ability to bypass geo-restrictions
- Occasional slowdowns
How to Choose the Best VPN for Criterion Channel in Italy?
- Ample servers in the US: To watch Criterion Channel in Italy, you will need servers in the United States. Make sure your VPN provider offers ample American servers so that you can easily switch between them in case there’s a problem with a particular server.
- Fast streaming speeds: Fast downloading speed is an essential ingredient of a perfect streaming experience. Make sure your VPN provider offers unlimited bandwidth and super-charged speeds.
- Top-notch security features: Sturdy security and advanced privacy features are also vital in maintaining the secrecy of your online activity. Select a VPN with advanced encryption protocols like 256-bit AES encryption and OpenVPN, along with other features, such as No-logging, Split-tunneling, and Automated Kill Switch.
- 24-hour live customer support: Get a VPN that’s always there for you when you need any technical assistance. Only premium VPN apps offer 24-hour live customer support.
Can I Use a Free VPN to Access Criterion Channel?
You can use a free VPN to access Criterion Channel from regions where it may not be available; however, there are several risks and limitations associated with this method.
Free VPNs often have slower connection speeds, which can significantly affect streaming quality, leading to buffering and a poor viewing experience.
Additionally, free VPN services may have less robust security features compared to paid alternatives, potentially exposing your data to third parties or cyber threats.
Here are the key reasons why I recommend using in premium VPN instead of any VPN.
| Key Features your VPN must have | ExpressVPN (My Top Choice) | Most Free VPNs |
|---|---|---|
| 🚀 Custom VPN Protocol | Yes – Lightway | None |
| 📺 Easily Unblocks all Streaming Platforms | Yes | Not all |
| 🔁 Data Cap | No Limit | Up to 10 GB |
| 🔒 Connection Logging | Never – 100% no-log policy | No promises |
| 🌍 Server Locations | 105 countries, worldwide | 10-50 countries |
| 👥 Simultaneous Devices | Up to 8 | Usually 1 |
| 📱 Device Compatibility | Apps for every streaming device | Mobile and PC only |
| 🗨️ Live Customer Support | 24/7 Support | Support via email |
How to Watch Criterion Channel in Italy on Your Device?
See the list of supported devices by Criterion Channel below:
| Device Type | Specific Devices |
|---|---|
| Streaming Devices | Apple TV, Amazon Fire Stick/Fire TV, Roku |
| Smart TVs | Samsung Smart TV, Chromecast, Other Smart TVs |
| Mobile Devices | iPhone & iPad, Android Phone & Tablet |
| Gaming Consoles | Xbox |
| Computers | Mac Browsers (Safari, Firefox, Chrome), Windows Browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Edge) |
Here are the steps to watch the Criterion channel on iPhone:
- Get a premium VPN subscription like ExpressVPN.
- Download the VPN app for your iPhone.
- Launch the VPN app and sign into your account.
- Connect to a fast US server (we recommended New York).
- Download the Criterion Channel app from the App Store.
- Open the app and use your Criterion Channel login details to sign in.
- Start streaming your favorite classic movies on Criterion Channel from anywhere!
Follow the simple steps to be able to watch Criterion Channel on Android devices in Italy:
- Get a premium VPN subscription (ExpressVPN is the best Criterion channel VPN).
- Download the VPN app for your Android streaming device.
- Launch the VPN app and sign into your account.
- Connect to a fast US server (I recommended New York).
- Download the Criterion app from the Google Play Store.
- Open the app and use your Criterion Channel login.
- Start watching your favorite content on the Criterion Channel!
For those asking how can I watch Criterion Channel on Roku in Italy, follow the steps given below:
- Get a premium VPN subscription like ExpressVPN.
- Download the VPN app for your Roku device.
- Launch the VPN app and sign into your account.
- Connect to a fast US server (I recommended New York).
- On your streaming device, from the home screen open the Roku Channel store.
- Add Criterion Channel to your channel list.
- Start watching Criterion Channel outside US!
Follow the steps given below to stream Criterion Channel on Firestick device:
- Get a premium VPN subscription like ExpressVPN.
- Download the VPN app for your Amazon Firestick device.
- Launch the VPN app and sign into your account.
- Connect to a fast US server (We recommended New York).
- From the Amazon Appstore, download the Criterion Channel app.
- Start watching your favorite content on the Criterion Channel!
At times, you might prefer watching movies on a larger screen. Here’s how you can watch Criterion Channel on your computer:
- Choose a VPN provider like ExpressVPN that offers fast and reliable connections.
- Install the VPN app on the computer.
- Connect to a server located in the USA.
- Open a web browser and navigate to the Criterion Channel website.
- Log in with your Criterion Channel login credentials.
- Select a movie from the Criterion collection streaming service and enjoy.
Is the Criterion channel worth it? Absolutely. The Criterion Channel is a great option if you’re looking for the titles and extras it offers. Navigate to the next heading to know what you should watch on Criterion.
What to Watch on Criterion Channel in Italy in 2024
The Criterion Channel offers its audience an eclectic catalog of Hollywood classics, contemporary flicks, indie cinema, and many more options that you can pick and choose from.
The Criterion Channel offers some of the best classic titles in its library. Here is a list of the best Criterion movies streaming in 2024:
| Heat | Black Narcissus |
| Hiroshima Mon Amour | I Knew Her Well |
| The Great Beauty | Black Girl |
| The Battle of Algiers | Rashomon |
Here’s everything new on the Criterion Channel this May 2024:
| Hollywood Crack-Up: The Decade American Cinema Lost Its Mind | Set in Venice |
| Columbia’s Golden Era | First-Person Asian American: 11 Documentaries |
| Tótem | The Breaking Ice |
Is the Criterion Channel Worth it? [Reddit Discussion]
On Reddit, users have discussed the value of the Criterion Channel. It reveals a generally positive consensus among users who appreciate the streaming service for its diverse and curated collection of films.
Many users recommend trying the free trial to see if the service meets personal tastes, especially highlighting its strong selection of not only Criterion Collection titles but also a variety of other unique and international films.
Several commenters mention canceling other streaming services in favor of Criterion due to its quality content and viewing experience.
Common praises include the service’s inclusion of special features, curated collections, and excellent film selection, making it a favorite among cinephiles.
However, a few users noted that the service might not be worth it if one prefers more mainstream or contemporary films, as Criterion focuses on classic and arthouse cinema.
What Other Streaming Services You Can Watch in Italy?
Besides enjoying Criterion Channel streaming, you can also get access to the following geo-restricted services in Italy with a VPN:
FAQS: Criterion Channel in Italy
How can I change my App Store region to download the Criterion Channel app in Italy?
Is it legal to watch Criterion Channel in Italy using a VPN?
Can I watch Criterion Channel on Gaming Consoles like PlayStation or Xbox?
What payment methods are available for Criterion Channel?
How do I redeem a Criterion Channel gift card??
Wrapping Up!
Criterion Channel offers an outstanding selection of films and shows, perfect for cinephiles looking to explore beyond mainstream offerings. Watching Criterion Channel in Italy is easy, if you use a high-quality VPN service.
I recommend ExpressVPN for its consistent performance and user-friendly experience, ensuring seamless access to the Criterion Channel’s rich catalog.
Happy Streaming!
