How to Watch Rai TV in USA | Top VPN & Streaming Guide 2024

  • Last updated September 7, 2024
  • written by
    Writer

Rai TV is a popular Italian streaming service, loved by many viewers for its wide range of shows and live events. However, due to geo-restrictions, you might need a VPN to access its content if you’re in USA.

Using a VPN can help you connect to Rai TV easily. I recommend ExpressVPN for a seamless streaming experience. Its fast speeds and ability to stream in HD without buffering make it an excellent choice. Plus, it keeps your online privacy secure and prevents ISP throttling.

Key Takeaways:

  • VPN Necessity: Using a VPN with Italian servers is essential to circumvent restrictions and access Rai TV in USA.
  • Recommended VPNs: Top VPNs for streaming Rai TV include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark.
  • Setup Guide: Steps to watch Rai TV include downloading a VPN, connecting to an Italian server, and logging into RaiPlay.
  • Device Compatibility: Rai TV can be watched on various devices, including Smart TVs, Roku, and Amazon Fire Stick.
  • Troubleshooting: Solutions for common streaming issues such as buffering or connection problems.
  • Alternative Methods: Other ways to access Rai TV without a VPN include using Smart DNS services.

How to Watch Rai TV in USA?

Here are the easy steps I followed to stream Rai TV in USA:

  1. Select a reliable VPN service with servers in Italy. I recommend ExpressVPN.
  2. Install the VPN app and connect to an Italian server.
  3. Navigate to Rai TV’s website or use the Rai TV app.
  4. Clear your browser’s cache to make sure your new IP location is recognized.
  5. Enjoy streaming RaiPlay from in USA.

Following these simple steps makes it easy and necessary to watch your favorite Rai TV shows.


Why Do You Need a VPN to Watch Rai TV in USA?

RaiPlay is an Italian streaming platform offering a variety of shows and movies. However, due to licensing agreements, it’s only available in Italy. When you try to access RaiPlay from in USA, you might see an error message like:

The Streaming of the content is available in USA only. We apologize for the inconvenience”

raiplay-geo-restriction-error-message-displayed-in-USA.

RaiPlay geo-restriction error appears when trying to access content from in USA without a VPN

A VPN can help you access RaiPlay by assigning you a temporary Italian IP address in USA. This way, RaiPlay thinks you’re in Italy, allowing you to stream its content without any problems.

Using a VPN, like ExpressVPN, ensures you get fast, reliable, and secure access to RaiPlay, making it the best choice for enjoying your favorite shows anywhere in the world.


Best VPN to Watch Rai TV in USA [Quick Overview]

When choosing a VPN to watch Rai TV in USA, selecting one that offers fast speeds, reliability, and robust security features is essential. Here is a quick overview of the VPNs I recommend for accessing RaiPlay:


How to Sign Up for RaiPlay in USA?

Here are the easy steps to sign up for RaiPlay in USA:

  1. Connect to the Italy server using ExpressVPN
  2. Visit the RaiPlay website or download the Rai TV app.
  3. Click the Registrati” (Register) button and enter your details: username, email, and password, or sign up using your Google, Apple, Facebook, or Twitter account.
  4. Check your email and click on the verification link sent by Rai TV to confirm your registration.
  5. Log into your account to securely watch Italian movies and shows in USA.

Best VPNs to Watch Rai TV in USA [In-Depth Analysis]

After extensive research and thorough testing, I share the top three VPNs for Rai TV, allowing seamless global access. These top VPN providers have demonstrated outstanding performance and reliability in the industry:


How Do Different VPNs Compare For Rai TV Streaming in USA

When comparing VPNs for Rai TV streaming in USA, it’s essential to focus on several key criteria:

Speed: Determines how well the VPN can handle HD and 4K streaming without buffering.
Reliability: Consistency in unblocking Rai TV and maintaining stable connections.
Security: Encryption standards, privacy policies, and additional security features like kill switches.
Ease of Use: User interface, setup process, and customer support availability.
Server Availability: Number and location of servers, particularly in USA.
Simultaneous Connections: The number of devices that can connect simultaneously under one account.
Pricing: Subscription costs and value for money, including free trial or money-back guarantees.

VPNs expressvpn-brand-logo-for-secure-vpn-service surfshark-brand-logo-for-secure-vpn-service nordvpn-brand-logo-for-secure-vpn-service
Bandwidth limit Unlimited Unlimited Unlimited
Speed 89+ Mbps 88+ Mbps 86+ Mbps
Reliability Highly reliable for Rai TV Consistent unblocking Reliable for Rai TV
Security 256-bit encryption, kill switch, no-logs 256-bit encryption, no-logs, CleanWeb 256-bit encryption, double VPN, no-logs
Servers in Italy 2 server locations 2 servers 111+ servers
Country Servers 105 countries 100 countries 61 countries
Speed 89+ 88+ 86+
Works with RaiPlay
No-Log Polcy YES YES YES
Simultaneous connections 8 Unlimited 10
Pricing $6.67/mo - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free $2.49/mo - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee $3.99/mo - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free

Detailed Comparison

  1. Speed:
    • ExpressVPN: Known for its blazing-fast speeds, ExpressVPN consistently delivers over 89 Mbps, making it ideal for streaming Rai TV in HD or 4K without interruptions.
    • Surfshark: Offers competitive speeds at 88+ Mbps, ensuring smooth streaming of Rai TV, even with multiple devices connected.
    • NordVPN: Slightly lower speed at 86+ Mbps but still fast enough for high-quality streaming. NordVPN’s speed is complemented by its extensive server network.
  2. Reliability:
    • ExpressVPN: Highly reliable, with minimal connection drops and consistent unblocking of Rai TV. It’s especially good for users looking to stream without frequent disconnections.
    • Surfshark: Consistent in unblocking Rai TV, with strong reliability across various regions, making it a dependable choice for international streaming.
    • NordVPN: Known for its stable connections and ability to bypass geo-restrictions, NordVPN is a solid option for streaming Rai TV reliably.
  3. Security:
    • ExpressVPN: Offers top-notch security with 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and a strict no-logs policy, ensuring your online activities remain private.
    • Surfshark: Includes robust security features like CleanWeb (ad blocker) and MultiHop, alongside strong encryption, providing excellent privacy for Rai TV viewers.
    • NordVPN: Features double VPN, Onion over VPN, and CyberSec (ad blocker), offering an extra layer of security for users concerned about privacy.
  4. Ease of Use:
    • ExpressVPN: Praised for its intuitive user interface and exceptional customer support, making it easy for beginners to set up and use.
    • Surfshark: User-friendly with 24/7 customer support and simple installation across multiple devices, ideal for those new to VPNs.
    • NordVPN: Provides a straightforward interface with extensive tutorials, making it accessible for both novice and experienced users.
  5. Server Availability:
    • ExpressVPN: With 2 server locations in USA and over 3000 worldwide, ExpressVPN offers ample choices for accessing Rai TV.
    • Surfshark: Offers 2 servers in USA and over 3200 globally, providing solid coverage for streaming Rai TV from different regions.
    • NordVPN: Boasts 111+ servers in USA and 5400+ worldwide, making it the leader in server availability for Rai TV streaming.
  6. Simultaneous Connections:
    • ExpressVPN: Supports up to 8 devices simultaneously, making it a great option for families or users with multiple devices.
    • Surfshark: Unique in offering unlimited simultaneous connections, allowing all your devices to stay protected and connected at the same time.
    • NordVPN: Allows up to 10 simultaneous connections, striking a good balance between coverage and security.
  7. Pricing:
    • ExpressVPN: Priced at $6.67 per month with a 3-month free offer, ExpressVPN provides excellent value for premium features and speed.
    • Surfshark: The most affordable option at $2.49 per month (2-year plan), offering comprehensive features at a budget-friendly price.
    • NordVPN: Costs $3.99 per month with a 2-year plan, offering a balance of price and performance with advanced security features.

Can You Use a Free VPN for Rai TV Streaming in USA?

Yes, you can, as some of the best free VPNs for Rai TV in USA can unblock the platform easily. However, I do not recommend using it because free VPNs often have fewer servers and slower speeds, and they may not reliably access RaiPlay due to limited resources and detection by the streaming service.

What is the difference between free and paid VPNs for Rai TV?

Feature Free VPN Paid VPN
Server Availability Limited Extensive, including Italy
Speed Slower, potential buffering Fast, suitable for HD streaming
Reliability Often blocked by RaiPlay Consistent access
Security Basic, less secure High-level encryption
Bandwidth Restricted Unlimited
Privacy May log data No-logs policies

Instead of compromising your online security to save money, I recommend opting for a reliable service that offers a free trial and premium security features at an affordable price. For example, ExpressVPN allows users to evaluate their services with a 7-day trial and offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.


Troubleshooting Common Issues in USA

When streaming RaiTV in USA, you might face a few common challenges. But don’t worry, I’m here to help you tackle them easily.

Issue Solution
Buffering or Lag Switch to a different server for a smoother viewing experience.
VPN Detection Clear your browser’s cache and cookies, and switch to a different VPN protocol.
Slow Speeds Update your VPN software to the latest version, or contact customer support for assistance.

Important Note: Using a VPN is essential for watching RaiTV when you’re in USA. It helps you avoid interruptions and enjoy your favorite shows without any hassle. I highly recommend using ExpressVPN as the best choice for this purpose. It’s reliable, fast, and easy to use.


How does RaiTV compare to other Italian streaming services?

RaiTV offers a wide range of content that makes it a favorite among many Italian viewers. However, when we compare it to other Italian streaming services like Mediaset Infinity and Netflix Italy, each platform has its own strengths.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Feature RaiTV Mediaset Infinity Netflix Italy
Content Variety Extensive library of free content Free and paid content, including live TV Massive collection of movies, series, and originals
Cost Free Free with ads, paid option available Subscription required
Latest Releases Limited selection of new titles Moderate selection, some new releases Wide selection of the latest and exclusive content
User Interface Simple, easy to use User-friendly with more features Highly advanced with personalized recommendations
Availability Accessible only in Italy Available in Italy, some content globally Available globally with Italian content
User Reviews Positive feedback for free content Mixed, some prefer the variety Highly rated for content and experience
Special Features Basic streaming features Live TV streaming and on-demand content Offline downloads, multiple languages, and profiles

When choosing a streaming service, consider what matters most to you—whether it’s cost, content variety, or user experience—and pick the one that fits your needs best.


Why Rai TV Not Working With a VPN in USA?

If Rai TV not working with VPN in USA, there could be several reasons for this issue. Here are some common causes:

  • IP Address Detection: RaiPlay might have detected and blacklisted your VPN’s IP address.
  • DNS Leaks: Your DNS requests might leak, revealing your location.
  • Browser Cookies and Cache: Cookies and cached data might reveal your location.
  • VPN Protocol: Your protocol might not be optimal for streaming.
  • Outdated VPN Software: Your VPN software might be outdated, causing compatibility issues.
  • Geographical Restrictions: RaiPlay might have enhanced its geo-blocking technology.
  • ISP Throttling: Your Internet Service Provider might be throttling VPN traffic.

What to do if Rai TV detects and blocks VPN?

  1. Switch Servers: Connect to a different Italian server within your VPN app.
  2. Clear Cache and Cookies: Clear your browser’s cache and cookies to remove any old data that might be causing issues.
  3. Update Your VPN: Ensure your VPN app is updated to the latest version for optimal performance.
  4. Use a Different VPN: If your current VPN consistently fails, consider switching to a more reliable VPN known for unblocking Rai TV.
  5. Contact Support: Reach out to your VPN’s customer support for assistance with specific server recommendations.

How to fix buffering issues when streaming Rai TV in USA?

  1. Choose the Nearest Server: Select the closest Italian server to your location to reduce latency.
  2. Use a Wired Connection: Connect your device directly to your router using an Ethernet cable for a more stable and faster connection.
  3. Close Unnecessary Applications: Shut down other apps and devices that might be using your bandwidth.
  4. Select a Fast VPN Protocol: Use faster VPN protocols like WireGuard or IKEv2, if available in your VPN app.
  5. Restart Your Router: Rebooting your router can sometimes improve your internet speed and VPN connection.


Can I Watch Rai TV in USA Without a VPN? [Alternative Methods]

Yes, you can watch Rai TV in USA without a VPN by using alternative methods like Smart DNS services, browser extensions, or proxies. Below is a brief definition of each method and a comparison table highlighting their pros and cons.

  • Smart DNS Services: It reroutes your DNS queries through a server in another country, allowing you to access geo-restricted content without encrypting your traffic.
  • Browser Extensions: They are add-ons that you can install on your web browser to change your apparent location and access blocked content within the browser.
  • Proxies: Proxies act as intermediaries between your device and the internet, masking your IP address and allowing you to access content from a different location.
Feature VPN Smart DNS Services Browser Extensions Proxies
Speed Can be slower due to encryption Generally faster Moderate speed Often slower due to server load
Security & Privacy High (encryption) Low (no encryption) Low to moderate Low (no encryption)
Ease of Use App setup required Simple configuration One-click install Easy
Reliability High High Moderate Low (often blocked)
IP Address Masking Yes No Yes (within the browser) Yes
Device Compatibility All devices Selected devices (Smart TVs, consoles) Browser only Selected devices (browser, some apps)
Access to Multiple Regions Yes Yes Limited to browser regions Limited
Cost Subscription required Subscription required Free and paid options Free and paid options

What are Rai TV Compatible Devices in USA?

RaiTV can be accessed on a wide range of devices, ensuring flexibility for viewers. Check out the list of RaiTV comaptible devices below:

Smart TVs Samsung, LG
Computers Windows, Mac
Smartphones & Tablets iOS, Android
Streaming Devices Apple TV, Chromecast, Fire Stick
Gaming Consoles PlayStation, Xbox
Web Browsers Chrome, Firefox, Safari

So, if you are looking for step-by-step instructions on how to watch Rai TV on your streaming devices in USA and setting up a VPN, I have created each device-specific guide ensures a smooth setup process, allowing you to watch Rai online:

How to Get Rai TV in USA on Smartphones (iOS and Android)?

No matter if you have an iOS or Android device, here’s a straightforward method of downloading the RaiPlay app on your smartphones in USA:

  1. Open your App Store/Google Play Store to download the VPN app – ExpressVPN is my recommendation.
  2. Then, connect to an Italian server.
  3. Search and download Rai TV app in USA.
  4. Log in to your RaiPlay account.
  5. Start watching Rai International from USA on your mobile device.

How to Stream Rai Italia in USA on Your PC (macOS/Windows)?

Here are the easy steps to watch Rai International channel on your PC:

  1. Subscribe to ExpressVPN and connect to an Italian server.
  2. Head over to the RaiPlay website and register your account.
  3. Begin RaiPlay International streaming on your PC.

How to Watch Rai Italia in USA on Fire Stick?

To watch RaiPlay on FireStick devices, follow the below easy steps:

  1. Subscribe to ExpressVPN and connect to an Italian server.
  2. Launch your Fire Stick device and search for Rai TV channels on RaiPlay.
  3. Go to the Amazon Store, locate the RaiPlay app, and install it.
  4. Once downloaded, sign in with your login information and start streaming Raitalia live.

How Can I Watch Rai TV on Smart TV in USA?

Here’s how to watch RaiPlay in USA on your Smart TV:

  1. Purchase a VPN with servers in Italy, such as ExpressVPN.
  2. Download and install the VPN app on your router.
  3. Connect to an Italian server.
  4. Search for the RaiPlay app in the Smart TV’s app store and install it.
  5. You can enjoy RaiPlay streaming on your Smart TV in USA.

Can I access Rai TV on Roku in USA?

Following these steps, you can stream Rai TV on your Roku in USA:

  1. Select a VPN that supports router installation, such as ExpressVPN.
  2. Install the VPN on your router and enter the VPN configuration details provided by your VPN service.
  3. Connect to a server in USA and ensure your Roku device is connected to the VPN-enabled router.
  4. Open the Rai TV app on your Roku or use screen mirroring from another device that can access Rai TV.


What is Rai TV and What Kind of Content Does it Offer?

Rai TV (Radiotelevisione Italiana) is Italy’s national public broadcasting company. It offers a wide variety of content across its multiple channels and platforms, including:

  • News and Current Affairs: Comprehensive news coverage and in-depth local and international events analysis.
  • Entertainment: Popular TV shows, reality programs, and talk shows.
  • Drama and Movies: Italian and international films, TV series, and soap operas.
  • Documentaries: Educational and informative documentaries on history, science, nature, and culture.
  • Sports: Live coverage of various sports events, including football, cycling, and more.
  • Children’s Programs: Educational and entertaining shows for kids of all ages.

What to Watch on Italian Rai TV in USA in 2024?

RaiPlay offers diverse Italian content, including live sports, TV shows, and movies. You can access all these exciting offerings by using a VPN. Here’s a closer look at what you can enjoy on Railay:

Channels Available for Live Streaming on RaiPlay

Users with access to RaiPlay can tune into various channels that cover news, sports, educational content, and children’s programming. Here’s a list of channels available for live streaming:

  • Rai News 24
  • Rai Sport
  • Rai Scuola
  • Rai Radio 2
  • Rai Yoyo
  • Rai Gulp
  • Rai Storia
  • Rai Premium
  • Rai Movie
  • Rai 1
  • Rai 2
  • Rai 3
  • Rai 4
  • Rai 5

Best Shows to Watch on Rai TV in USA in 2024

Here are some popular Italian and international TV shows you can access on RaiPlay in USA:

Italian Show Title International Show Title
Don Matteo Sherlock
Il Commissario Montalbano Downton Abbey
La Porta Rossa Breaking Bad
Che Tempo Che Fa The Crown
Un Posto al Sole Game of Thrones
I Medici Stranger Things
Rocco Schiavone Black Mirror
L’Amica Geniale Friends
I Bastardi di Pizzofalcone The Big Bang Theory
Inspector Coliandro House of Cards

Best Movies to Watch on Rai TV in USA in 2024

Following are the best movies on Rai TV in 2024 in USA:

Italian Movie Title International Movie Title
La Vita è Bella The Godfather
Il Postino Schindler’s List
Nuovo Cinema Paradiso Pulp Fiction
La Grande Bellezza Inception
Gomorra The Shawshank Redemption
L’Ultimo Bacio The Dark Knight
Perfetti Sconosciuti Titanic
Mediterraneo Forrest Gump
Romanzo Criminale Gladiator
Le Conseguenze dell’Amore The Matrix

What’s New on Rai TV in USA in 2024?

As the Rai TV international guide, the top events and shows available on RaiPlay in 2024 in USA are:

Camper The Ship of Dreams
The Sniper Miss Merkel – Death at the Castle
Gruffalo and His Little Girl News Room


How Can I Renew Rai Subscription in USA?

Renewing your RaiTV subscription ensures you enjoy your favorite Italian programming without interruption. Here’s a simple guide to help you renew your subscription efficiently:

  1. Visit the RaiTV website or open the RaiPlay app. Enter your login credentials to access your account.
  2. Within your account dashboard, look for the section or tab labelled ‘Subscription’ or ‘My Subscription.’
  3. If your subscription is close to expiring, you will typically see a ‘Renew’ button or link. Click on this to proceed.
  4. Review your payment method. If you need to update your payment details, such as your credit card number or billing address, do so to ensure a seamless transaction.
  5. Follow the prompts to finalize the renewal once your payment information is confirmed and up-to-date. You should receive a confirmation via email or directly on the website, confirming that your subscription has been successfully renewed.
  6. Return to your subscription details page to verify that your renewal went through and to check the new expiration date of your subscription.

Rai TV in USA [Reddit Recommendations]

How to watch RAI UNO series from abroad?

To watch RAI UNO series abroad, using a VPN is a common and effective method. Many Reddit users recommend ExpressVPN for its reliability. One mentioned having success with ExpressVPN while using Kodi, which has an add-on that includes all Italian channels, including regional ones and radio.

How can I access RaiPlay in US to practice comprehension?

Accessing RaiPlay from the US can be challenging due to restrictions that limit the platform to viewers in Italy. Reddit users suggest using a VPN to mask your location. By connecting to an Italian server through a VPN like NordVPN or ExpressVPN, you can access RaiPlay. However, RaiPlay may block some VPNs, so success can vary.

For those who face issues, the Reddit thread also mentions RaiPlaySound as an alternative for Italian audio content. While it doesn’t offer the full range of RaiPlay’s videos, it remains a useful resource for language practice.

Italian TV streaming for free

According to Reddit thread, IPTV streams numerous Italian TV channels. The number of channels varies daily, typically between 150 and 200, currently at 169. This includes RAI news, kids’ channels, cooking shows, documentaries, and more. This resource is invaluable for anyone looking to improve their Italian language skills with engaging and varied content.


User Reviews for Rai TV

Rai TV has a rating of 1.6 out of 5 stars based on 150 reviews on Trustpilot. Users have praised the variety of content available, including news, entertainment, and documentaries. However, there are complaints about the user interface, streaming quality, and accessibility issues in USA.

One of the free options. They could introduce a few more new features. Overall, happy with the service.

Good video quality and decent content. I’d say it’s okay since you pay the license fee regardless.”

A service that’s not exactly brilliant. The content is low quality, and the platform doesn’t offer a very interesting variety. Another issue is the ads, especially at the beginning of programs, which often freeze and restart.



FAQs: Rai TV in USA

No! RaiPlay is not available in USA. It is a restricted channel that is available only in USA due to licensing agreements. To access Rai TV in USA, you’ll need to connect to an Itlay server of a reliable VPN service like ExpressVPN.

To watch Rai TV live in USA, you need to use a VPN. Connect to an Italian server using a VPN like ExpressVPN, and then you can access Rai TV’s live content through its website or the RaiPlay app.

Yes, Rai TV is free to access. You only need to sign up for an account to watch the content. However, since it’s subject to regional restrictions, you’d have to connect to a VPN like ExpressVPN to watch Rai TV free in USA.

Yes, Rai TV lets you stream content across multiple devices using a single subscription. Ensure your VPN supports multiple simultaneous connections to enjoy RaiPlay on devices such as smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and PCs all under one account.

Rai content can be accessed in USA through Sling TV and fuboTV, which offer Rai Italia in their channel packages. Additionally, RaiPlay can be accessed using a VPN connected to an Italian server. These options allow you to enjoy Rai’s programming in USA.

Yes, there is an English-language version of Rai TV available in America through Rai Italia, which broadcasts content with English subtitles and some English-language segments, catering to the Italian diaspora.

Yes, it is legal to use a VPN to watch Rai TV in USA. Using a VPN to access restricted content like Rai TV is generally permissible under US laws. However, while VPN usage is legal, respecting Rai TV’s terms of service regarding content access is important. Always choose a reputable VPN provider like ExpressVPN to ensure secure and responsible streaming.

Rai TV offers a wide range of content including news, sports, and entertainment, primarily catering to an Italian audience. International viewers can access this content through RaiPlay using a VPN​ like ExpressVPN.


Conclusion

As RaiPlay in USA has not been launched, I’ve found that to watch Rai TV in USA, a reliable VPN is essential.

My top choice is ExpressVPN, which offers impressive speeds, allowing for high-definition streaming without interruption. Additionally, this VPN provides strong security features to protect your online activities, even when you’re connected to public WiFi.


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