If you’re a fan of the BBC’s award-winning streaming service, BBC iPlayer, you know that it’s home to some of the best TV shows, movies, news, and live sports. However, if you find yourself outside of the UK, you’ll need a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to bypass the BBC’s geo-restrictions and enjoy all that iPlayer has to offer. But not just any VPN will do. You need one of the best BBC iPlayer VPNs for the job.
Luckily, TechRadar’s team of experts has been testing VPNs for over 15 years, and they’ve compiled a definitive shortlist of the 5 best VPNs for watching BBC iPlayer. Each pick impressed with its unblocking capabilities, security, and privacy credentials. So, whether you’re traveling or just want to access iPlayer from outside the UK, this guide will help you pick the right VPN for the job.
The Three Best VPNs at a Glance
Looking for a VPN that works well with BBC iPlayer? Here are the top 3 VPNs that we recommend:
- ExpressVPN: Fast speeds and reliable connections make it a great choice for streaming BBC iPlayer.
- NordVPN: Offers a wide range of servers and strong security features to keep your data safe.
- CyberGhost: Easy-to-use interface and optimized servers for streaming make it a top choice for BBC iPlayer users.
All three VPNs have been tested and proven to work with BBC iPlayer, so you can be confident in your choice. Check out our summary of the latest VPN test results for more information.
The Best BBC iPlayer VPN in 2024:
The Best iPlayer VPN Overall
(Image credit: ExpressVPN)
1. ExpressVPN
When it comes to unblocking BBC iPlayer, ExpressVPN is the best VPN overall. It is a premium provider that offers sleek, stylish apps for all your devices and tons of security features. It can unblock virtually all in-demand streaming services, including BBC iPlayer, and you can try it for yourself with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
ExpressVPN has servers in more than 94 countries, and a decent selection of UK locations in London, the Docklands, and the Midlands. These UK servers come in handy for unblocking BBC iPlayer and other on-demand platforms, like ITVX and All 4. During tests, it was able to access a huge library of content without any roadblocks. The VPN also claims to unblock other Brit favorites, including BT Sports and Now, and international staples like Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney Plus.
Apps are well-designed and intuitive, making it incredibly easy to use, regardless of the device you install them on, and have a fresh, fun design. The VPN only gives users five simultaneous connections to play with, but you should still be able to cover all of the most important gadgets in the home.
On the off chance that you can’t unblock BBC iPlayer using the Smart Location server feature, the excellent live chat support is on hand to help. Available 24/7, shoot them a message, and they’ll tell you exactly which server will unlock the gates to BBC’s brilliant collection of entertainment and live broadcasting.
The Best VPN with Antivirus
ExpressVPN is my number one pick for unblocking BBC iPlayer, but it doesn’t come with built-in antivirus capabilities. If you want a full security suite, then Norton 360 with VPN is the best option.
Norton 360 with VPN offers a comprehensive security package that includes antivirus, firewall, password manager, and more. It also comes with a VPN that can unblock BBC iPlayer and other streaming services. The VPN has servers in more than 60 countries, including the UK, and offers unlimited bandwidth and data usage.
Norton 360 with VPN is easy to use and has a user-friendly interface. It also includes 24/7 customer support and a 60-day money-back guarantee. The only downside is that it is a bit pricey compared to other VPN providers.
If you’re looking for a VPN with antivirus capabilities, then Norton 360 with VPN is the best option. It offers comprehensive security and privacy features, along with a VPN that can unblock BBC iPlayer and other streaming services.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top VPN services recommended for accessing BBC iPlayer?
When it comes to accessing BBC iPlayer with a VPN, it’s important to choose a reliable and trustworthy service. Some of the top VPN services recommended for accessing BBC iPlayer include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and CyberGhost VPN. These services have proven to be effective in bypassing geo-restrictions and providing access to BBC iPlayer from anywhere in the world.
Is it possible to use a free VPN to watch BBC iPlayer?
While there are some free VPN services available, they are not recommended for accessing BBC iPlayer. Free VPNs often have limited bandwidth and slow speeds, which can result in buffering and poor video quality. Additionally, many free VPNs have been known to sell user data to third parties, which can compromise your privacy and security.
How can I resolve issues with a VPN not working with BBC iPlayer?
If you are experiencing issues with a VPN not working with BBC iPlayer, there are a few things you can try. First, make sure you are using a VPN that is known to work with BBC iPlayer. Next, try connecting to a different server location within the VPN. Finally, clear your browser cache and cookies, and try accessing BBC iPlayer again.
Can viewers in the USA legally access BBC iPlayer using a VPN?
Viewers in the USA can use a VPN to access BBC iPlayer, but it is important to note that it may not be legal to do so. BBC iPlayer is only available to viewers in the UK, and using a VPN to access the service from outside of the UK may be a violation of copyright laws.
Are there any methods to watch BBC iPlayer abroad without using a VPN?
While using a VPN is the most common method for accessing BBC iPlayer abroad, there are other methods available. Some viewers have had success using a Smart DNS service, which can also bypass geo-restrictions. However, it’s important to note that these services may not be as reliable as a VPN.
Do I need a TV license to watch BBC iPlayer with a VPN?
Yes, you still need a TV license to watch BBC iPlayer with a VPN. The TV license requirement applies to all viewers, regardless of how they access BBC iPlayer. It’s important to note that attempting to access BBC iPlayer without a TV license is illegal and can result in fines and other penalties.
