5 Best VPNs for BBC iPlayer in 2022
In this guide, we’ll tell you how you can be able to watch BBC iPlayer using the best VPN for BBC iPlayer streaming in no time from overseas!
As we all know, the BBC iPlayer is UK based streaming platform that has imposed geo-restrictions and can only be accessed with a UK IP address. So whether you’re a British ex-pat living overseas or simply want to watch your favorite show from home, you need to use a VPN to unblock its services.
When reviewing the best VPN for BBC iPlayer, we reviewed over 50 VPNs. Out of them, only a few have been able to unblock this streaming content and maintain high-quality video performance.
ExpressVPN has always been the best VPN for streaming due to its extensive server network, great unblocking skills, and flawless speeds so that you can enjoy iPlayer streaming without buffering. You can try also ExpressVPN free trial for 30 days.
Moreover, the other 4 best VPN services also unlock access to other well-known streaming sites like US Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, ESPN, and many others. It also boasts top-notch speeds, offers a wide variety of server options, and high-end encryption to keep your real location anonymous.
Best VPN for BBC iPlayer in 2022: Quick Summary
For those of you searching for a quick review, our testing revealed that these were the top 5 BBC iPlayer VPNs. We’ll go through all 5 in depth later.
- ExpressVPN: Best VPN for 4K streaming on BBC iPlayer. 5 Seamless streaming and fast speeds servers in the UK. Best Price $6.67/mo .
- NordVPN: Most secure VPN to bypass BBC iPlayer restrictions. 700+ servers available in the UK to unblock BBC iPlayer Best Price. $3.99/mo .
- Surfshark: Affordable VPN to unblocks BBC iPlayer. Working London, Manchester, and Glasgow servers. Best Price $2.49/mo .
- CyberGhost: Dedicated servers are available for BBC iPlayer. 600 UK-based Servers for Streaming. Best Price $2.29/mo .
- PureVPN: Offers reliable servers in the UK to access BBC iPlayer. Offers fast and secure servers in the UK for streaming. Best Price $1.99/mo .
Learn how to set up a VPN for BBC iPlayer in 4 quick steps.
Best VPN for BBC iPlayer in 2022: In-depth Analysis
Check out these 5 VPNs that work smoothly with BBC iPlayer, described in detail after comparing their costs, Trustpilot ratings, and streaming features:
1. ExpressVPN: Best VPN for 4K Streaming on BBC iPlayer
Country Origin | British Virgin Island |
Total Servers | 3000+ |
Countries | 94+ |
No.of Connected Devices | 5 Devices |
Price | $6.67/mo |
Money-back Guarantee | 30- days |
Live Chat Service | Available 24/7 |
Compatible Devices | Windows, Linux, Mac, Android, iOS, routers, Firestick, Xbox, PS4, etc |
Unblocks streaming Platforms | US Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, My4, My5, Sky Go, ITV Hub, Disney+, HBO Max |
Trustpilot rating | 4.7 |
All servers successfully unblocked the BBC iPlayer streaming platform, including other VoDs like Disney Plus, Netflix UK, Amazon Prime, Hulu, and more – thanks to the strong AES-256-GCM encryption and leak-free connection.
Apart from this, ExpressVPN offers multiple protocol support, over 3000 global servers that deliver speedy performance, 24/7 live chat support, and much more.
ExpressVPN offers its own router firmware, which users can either download and install for free if they want to watch BBC iPlayer on a streaming device that doesn’t natively support VPNs.
The pricing plans currently offered By ExpressVPN include:
- Verified “no-logs” policy
- 3000+ servers in 94 countries
- UK servers unblock BBC iPlayer
- Multi-logins on 5 devices
- 30-day refund policy
- Prices are a bit too steep
1. NordVPN: Most Secure VPN to Bypass BBC iPlayer Restrictions
Country Origin | Panama |
Total Servers | 5600+ |
Countries | 59+ |
No.of Connected Devices | 6 Devices |
Price | $3.99/mo |
Money-back Guarantee | 30- days |
Live Chat Service | Available 24/7 |
Compatible Devices | Linux, Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Firestick, Kodi, etc |
Unblocks streaming Platforms | BBC iPlayer, UK Netflix, HBO, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Sling TV, Showtime, & more |
Trustpilot rating | 4.4 |
The UK server list at NordVPN is comprehensive, and it even informs you about the current server usage and overload notifications. If one of them is not working, just switch and connect to the next one on the list.
You shouldn’t have any trouble streaming in HD or even 4K because his service had one of the best results in our speed test. Strong encryption and a rigorous zero-logs policy provide great security and the confidentiality of your personal information, including your IP address.
For me, it took two to three server switches to connect to BBC iPlayer, despite selecting those with a high server load already.
Plans available by NordVPN include:
NordVPN offers a 7-day trial for iOS and Android users and a 30-day money-back guarantee on all of its subscription plans.
- Based in Panama
- Double VPN available
- Onion over VPN available
- UK Servers unblock BBC iPlayer
- Over 5,200+ Servers worldwide
- No-Port Forwarding.
2. Surfshark: Affordable VPN to Unblock BBC iPlayer
Country Origin | British Virgin Island |
Total Servers | 3200+ |
Countries | 65+ |
No.of Connected Devices | Unlimited Devices |
Price | $2.49/mo |
Money-back Guarantee | 30- days |
Live Chat Service | Available 24/7 |
Compatible Devices | Windows, Linux, Mac, Android, iOS, |
Unblocks streaming Platforms | Netflix, Disney Plus Hotstar, Hulu, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, and more. |
Trustpilot rating | 4.5 |
The reason why I list Surfshark second is because of its affordability which makes it the best budget VPN. The price is unmatched in the marketplace of VPNs. Despite this, it goes head-to-head against top names like NordVPN and ExpressVPN.
Just make sure to switch the protocol from the outdated IKEv2 to the OpenVPN (TCP) protocol after installing Surfshark. Otherwise, you will encounter the “proxy” error.
Best VPN deals available by Surfshark:
- Headquartered in BVI
- Unlimited multi-logins
- Zero WebRTC/DNS/IP leaks
- AES-256-CBC and AES-256-GCM
- UK servers unblock BBC iPlayer
- No Free Trial Available
4. CyberGhost – Dedicated servers are available for BBC iPlayer
Country Origin | Romania |
Total Servers | 6000+ |
Countries | 88 |
No.of Connected Devices | 7 Devices |
Price | $2.29/mo |
Money-back Guarantee | 45- days |
Live Chat Service | Available 24/7 |
Compatible Devices | Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, routers |
Unblocks streaming Platforms | Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, HBO max, Fox TV, and more |
Trustpilot rating | 4.6 |
CyberGhost is another popular VPN service that has added the capability not just to unblock BBC iPlayer outside the UK but also to deliver fast and high-quality streaming. The method of bypassing the restrictions is quite simple too.
The CyberGhost apps allow you to select a dedicated server based on the streaming platform you wish to unblock. Open the app and click on the streaming option will display a long selection of well-known streaming services, including BBC iPlayer. To connect, simply select that option, and the app will connect you to the iPlayer server.
Fast speeds from CyberGhost should be more than enough for high-definition video streaming. For secure streaming. It uses high-level encryption with perfect forward secrecy automated kill switch.
- Dedicated Servers for BBC iPlayer UK
- Multi-logins on 7 devices
- Zero WebRTC/DNS/IP leaks
- 6,500+ servers in 90 countries
- Up to 7 simultaneous connections
- Basic security features
5. PureVPN: Offers reliable servers in the UK to access BBC iPlayer
Country Origin | British Virgin Island |
Total Servers | 6500+ |
Countries | 78 |
No.of Connected Devices | 10 Devices |
Price | $1.99/mo |
Money-back Guarantee | 31- days |
Live Chat Service | Available 24/7 |
Compatible Devices | Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, Android, routers, etc |
Unblocks streaming Platforms | Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Sling TV, etc. |
Trustpilot rating | 4.7 |
If you click on the “Streaming” tab, on the left corner of the app, you will find a list of channels available to unblock. Simply click on “BBC iPlayer” and wait a few seconds for the UK version of the website to open up on your browser.
You can even unblock BBC iPlayer through manual server switches. For me, it took two to three server switches to connect to BBC iPlayer, despite going for those with a high server load already. Plans available by PureVPN include:
- Monthly: $10.95./mo.
- 1-Year: $3.24/mo. (billed $38.88)
- 2-Years: $1.99/mo (billed $47.76)
- Unblock the BBC iPlayer option available
- 1,000+ servers in 100 locations
- Zero WebRTC/DNS/IP leaks
- AES-256-CBC encryption
- 58 servers located in the UK
- Slow support response times
Why Do You Need VPN for BBC Player?
The iPlayer was BBC’s attempt to make its programming more accessible to viewers by allowing them to stream it online. However, just like Netflix, it encounters licensing issues that lead to geo-restricting licensed content.
It is because of these licensing issues from production houses of different movies/documentaries/TV shows that users are forced to seek other means of accessing the complete BBC iPlayer content.
That is why you need a BBC iPlayer VPN to access this streaming service from anywhere in the world, despite the platform imposing a ban on VPNs.
How to Choose the Best VPN for iPlayer?
I made sure each VPN I tested for BBC iPlayer had the capabilities you’d need for quick, dependable access to the website. Consider these factors before choosing the best VPN for BBC iPlayer for you.
- Unblocks BBC iPlayer: A VPN should have reliable UK servers if you want constant access to BBC iPlayer. Even better, it needs to offer multiple UK connections in case one is difficult to use or slow due to congestion. All of the VPNs on this list have a minimum of 5 UK servers respectively.
- High-Speed: The maximum resolution of BBC iPlayer is 1080HD, which requires download speeds of at least 5 Mbps. I speed-tested each VPN on this list to make sure it can handle HD streaming. You can enjoy unlimited streaming because they all offer limitless data.
- Device Compatibility: All the VPNs I suggested were compatible with the most widely used platforms, including Linux, Windows, Android, and iOS. Additionally, I made sure the apps were simple to use and install. Each VPN supports simultaneous use on several devices.
- Efficient Customer service: Your VPN should have quick and effective customer care to solve your queries on time. A 24/7 live chat option is much better for getting responses immediately via live chat or email forms. These suggested VPNs offer dependable customer service with prompt responses.
- Money-back Policy: Any quality VPN includes a money-back guarantee option on their subscription plans for users to try their service capabilities risk-free.
How to Setup VPN for BBC iPlayer?
Follow these easy steps, and you will be watching your favorite show on BBC iPlayer in no time:
- Subscribe to a reliable VPN service like ExpressVPN.
- Install it on its compatible device.
- Connect to the UK servers.
- Visit BBC iPlayer and watch any TV show without interruption.
Note: If you find difficulties in unblocking BBC iPlayer while using a VPN. Check these solutions to fix VPN problems with BBC iPlayer.
How to Fix VPN Problems with BBC iPlayer
When the iPlayer has got enough data to suggest a VPN is in action, it moves to ban it from accessing the site and app altogether. Here are some great ways to fix BBC iPlayer from detecting your service:
Fix Your DNS Cache
Ever heard of cookies? No, I am not talking about the ones that you dip in warm milk. I am referring to the log files stored by your browser, which include important data like your location.
If you have not cleared your cookies, BBC iPlayer will instantly be able to discern that you are using a VPN or proxy. Simply clear the cache and cookies each time you want to unblock the streaming platform.
You can also flush your DNS cache on Windows. Launch “CMD” and run the following command “ipconfig /flushdns” by typing it in and pressing enter.
Get a Dedicated IP Address
As we have mentioned here before, iPlayer detects VPNs when there are too many connections being routed through a single server or a group of similar IP addresses.
Acquiring a dedicated IP VPN will surely help you never face this problem as the iPlayer won’t be singling you out for a suspicious connection ever.
Switch Servers
The best way to get around the iPlayer VPN detection problem is to try switching to a new server down the list. Many top VPNs offer multiple UK servers allowing you to do this quite easily.
ExpressVPN has secure UK servers, so if one is not working, select another from the list. You can also ask your VPN’s live chat support team for their best UK servers to unblock BBC iPlayer, as I did for CyberGhost
The VPNs That Can’t Stream BBC iPlayer
Many paid and free VPNs for BBC iPlayer may help in unblocking websites overall but fail to unblock sites like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, Hulu, and more. This means you need to test each service before making a decision to sign up with them.
TunnelBear
Released in 2011 and based in Canada, TunnelBear is one of the most famous names in the FREE VPNs marketplace.
We connected to a server in the UK but suffered instant disconnection upon playing a video. A few seconds after, we received the “BBC iPlayer only works in the UK” error.
Windscribe
Founded in 2018, Windscribe is another Canadian-based VPN service.
We connected to a UK server from their limited number of locations, and though we were successful in accessing the website from the US, we faced tremendous trouble in getting a video to run on BBC iPlayer.
ZenMate
Established in 2014, ZenMate is a Berlin-based provider that has three plans available with a provider with the inclusion of a free subscription. Regardless, the service was unable to connect to BBC iPlayer successfully, displaying the error.
Other VPN Services that Fail at Unblocking BBC iPlayer
- AvastVPN❌
- PIA❌
- IPVanish❌
- ProtonVPN❌
- HideMyAss❌
- Hide.Me❌
- LeVPN❌
- VPNBook❌
- VPNTunnel❌
- TorVPN❌
- VPN Master❌
- OverPlay❌
- iPredator❌
- GooseVPN❌
- EarthVPN❌
- VPN4All❌
- Proxy.sh❌
- Perfect Privacy❌
How to Watch BBC iPlayer on Firestick Using VPN
Firestick users around the world may be looking for solutions to unblock BBC iPlayer from outside UK. There are typically two methods available for using BBC iPlayer the free VPN for amazon fire tv.
The first involves the purchasing of a pre-configured DD-WRT Flash Router. You can check this link out for a complete listing of VPN routers available from prominent names in the industry.
The second option would be to get the best VPN for BBC iPlayer Firestick from the Firestick store. For both methods, you will have to simply connect to a UK IP address to spoof your online location and trick the VoD service.
You can then easily access the complete database of BBC iPlayer’s content and other UK channels like Channel 5, Channel 4, Now TV, Sky, ITV, and more. For more detailed steps, follow the instructions below:
- Download and install the BBC iPlayer app on your Firestick Device
- Get the Best VPN app for Firestick from the VPN providers mentioned above.
- Launch the VPN app and sign in using your login credentials
- Connect to a server in the UK and head to the iPlayer website
- Sign up for a UK account and enjoy streaming on iPlayer!
How to Watch BBC iPlayer on Android using a VPN
The BBC iPlayer is available as an Android app, which we have already described in detail above. Using the service on Android is not much different from the website.
And if you want to unblock BBC iPlayer on your Android, the 5 VPNs for BBC iPlayer I listed above do offer Android apps. For clearer instructions, follow the steps below.
- Subscribe to a Top VPN service and pay for its pricing plans
- Obtain user credentials for your VPN account via the confirmation email
- Download the Android app of your VPN from Google Play Store
- Let it install on your device and then login into it
- Once the VPN is installed, connect to a UK server on it
- Visit BBC.co.uk/iPlayer and sign up with the service
- Enjoy live TV and your favorite shows on BBC iPlayer!
How to Watch BBC iPlayer VPN via Chromecast:
Chromecast is Google’s answer to popular streaming devices like Roku and Firestick. It is a device through which you can stream video content on large screen devices like your TV via your computer or mobile device.
If you want to watch BBC abroad through your Chromecast, the best way to do it is through your computer. You can also do it with your mobile and the steps to both are pretty similar and straightforward.
Through Your Laptop:
- Your laptop needs to be connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your Chromecast
- Open the Chrome browser on your laptop and install the Chromecast extension.
- Now open bbc.co.uk/iplayer and select the program you want to stream.
- Click on an icon from the control bar known as “Cast.”
- Your Chromecast will now stream to your device.
Through Your Smartphone:
- Your smartphone needs to be connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your Chromecast
- Ensure that the iPlayer app you are using is updated to the latest version.
- Open the app and click on the “Cast” icon in the top left corner.
- If the icon is blue in color, you are successfully connected.
- Simply play any video to stream to your TV/tablet.
Note: if you are trying to watch BBC outside the UK, you will need to use the Best VPN for BBC iPlayer chrome in order to unblock the service and continue watching it via your Chromecast.
How is BBC iPlayer Blocking/Detecting VPN?
VPN bans have become a standard industry practice across the streaming domain. Similar bans can be found on sites like Netflix and Hulu. However, you can still bypass these VPN bans through a powerful service.
Generally, weak VPNs are the most vulnerable to cannot make it through the ban, as they leak your WebRTC/DNS/IP and do not come equipped with features like StealthVPN, a.k.a. obfuscation.
List of Channels Available on BBC iPlayer
BBC iPlayer is not just your average media library but a comprehensive service that also offers live TV. The only catch of signing up with the provider is that you only have BBC-specific content available, nothing else.
Channels offered by BBC iPlayer at the moment include S4C, CCBC, Cheebies, BBC One, BBC Two, BBC Three, BBC Four, BBC Alba, BBC News, BBC Radio, and BBC Parliament.
FAQs: Best VPN for BBC iPlayer
Do You Need a UK TV License for Accessing BBC iPlayer?
Yes, you do, but that license will only be available to you if you live inside the UK. The BBC iPlayer sources its finances from TV licensing fees generated in the UK and by selling distribution rights of its programs to third-party buyers/channels.
IPlayer has placed a VPN detector tool on its site to prevent users who do not have a license from accessing its service. UK citizens know that in order to access any BBC-related service, they would need a TV license and the best UK VPN for BBC iPlayer to make their anonymous.
Why Doesn’t My VPN Work with BBC iPlayer?
Over the years, BBC iPlayer has become more proactive in blocking VPN services, utilizing active scans, IP blacklisting, advanced tracking, and other tools for identifying VPN traffic. This has resulted in iPlayer’s geographical restrictions becoming extremely tough to bypass.
Many VPNs will face trouble with streaming on the VoD, and those issues usually require small tweaks. To give you better information on how iPlayer detects VPNs, consider addressing the following concerns:
- Your VPN is failing at cloaking your IP address successfully. Some services only hide your IPv4 address but forget to offer any security for the IPv6 address.
- Your VPN may be using virtual servers with poor security protocols that result in the leaking of your real location. Avoid VPNs that use virtual servers to reduce costs.
- Your device is still displaying your real GPS location. This often happens when connecting from mobile data. There is a chance your GPS conflicts with the virtual server.
- BBC iPlayer has blacklisted access to the VPN server you are using. This is common for VPN services that have a small server network. Go for a VPN with a huge server list.
- The cookies stored on your laptop or mobile device are giving away the true location to BBC iPlayer, or your VPN simply lacks the resources to keep up with the geo-blocks.
How Does BBC iPlayer Know I’m Using a VPN?
Similar to other streaming platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, HBO Now, and Hotstar, BBC iPlayer utilizes VPN-detection technologies for blocking proxies/VPNs to prevent production houses from losing money!
Is It Illegal to Watch BBC iPlayer Abroad?
Not really; you can watch BBC iPlayer anywhere outside the UK without facing any legal hassles. All you have to do for that is to connect to a UK server on the best VPN to unblock the geo-restricted BBC iPlayer site.
Does It Cost to Download BBC iPlayer?
No, it does not cost you to download the BBC iPlayer apps from either the iOS or Android app stores. However, it is necessary for you to have a subscription to BBC iPlayer to watch all the content available in their app.
Can I use a free VPN to Unblock BBC iPlayer?
Perhaps yes, but free VPNs are typically not the best choices for streaming BBC iPlayer. The BBC is very diligent in tracking down and restricting VPN-related IP addresses. Free VPNs are the first to lose access since they are so simple to identify this is one of the many reasons for not using free VPNs to watch BBC iPlayer.
How to watch BBC iPlayer abroad free without VPN?
You can not watch BBC iPlayer without a VPN if you live outside the UK because of geo-restrictions.
Wrapping Things Up
This Best VPN for BBC iPlayer guide was an exercise towards explaining the ways through which users who live outside the United Kingdom can also watch and enjoy all that streaming platform has to offer.
With every factor taken into consideration, ExpressVPNis the undisputed champion for unblocking BBC iPlayer. However, if you want a cheaper alternative, consider signing up with Surfshark.
If you face any issues or need to give better recommendations, feel free to comment below. Also, do share the guide with friends and family members who are looking for a “working” Best VPN for BBC iPlayer.
Hi!
When casting content from the BBC iPlayer via Chromecast to my TV, the subtitles do not appear. I see “subtitles on” and “subtitles off” on the TV, but no subtitles.
The tech guys of Express VPN are unable to help.
A solution would be hugely appreciated, thank you!
Hey there Ben, this is actually a common problem among BBC iPlayer and other streaming platforms, especially when Chromecasting. There’s no absolute fix for it. Subtitles either appear or don’t, depending on the TV show/movie you watch. It’s a hit and miss thing. However, you can try updating the BBC iPlayer app and checking whether you have the latest “firmware” installed on Chromecast. If not, get it installed and i think it should start working again.
Try Wachee chrome extension.
Hello Soroush,
Thanks for your suggestion, is it free app?
PIA does not work with BBCiPlayer
Hey Hexley,
Thank you for pointing this one out. We also found out the same in our recent round of testing and we will update this guide soon and remove PIA from the list!
Regards,
I’ve just bought a nord subscription for 2 years with code get2yrs(if it works more than once maybe someone else can make a use of it too), the deal seemed so good that I just went for it and completely forgot to check if the service works with iPlayer, thank God it does, thanks for assurance. I wouldn’t need it normally, but I’m going away to study in September and just though it’d be good to keep up with things.
Hey Wondermary, thanks for commenting and sharing your experience with the VPN service. Indeed, the service would be a good choice to keep up with your unblocking and streaming activities, if you visit a country with tough internet laws. Best of luck with your studies! 🙂