How to Watch PBS in Canada [Updated 2023]
If you have any travel plans in Canada soon, did you consider the fact that you won’t be able to access most exclusive online activities if you leave the USA? Unless you utilize a premium VPN service, you won’t be able to watch PBS in Canada due to geo-restrictions. Any attempt will be met with an error that stops you from accessing PBS’s library.
The Public Broadcasting Service, or PBS, is a free-to-air and non-commercial television network in America. Unfortunately, it is also geo-restricted due to licensing rights and copyright laws. This means that it is only available to users in a specific location, in this case, the United States.
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a tool that will change your location’s IP address to a US IP address. This will fool PBS into thinking that you are currently in the USA, granting you access to PBS and all its subsidiaries. You will be able to stream the vast PBS catalog as much as you want from the comfort of your home. Popular TV Shows and movies like Brooklyn Bridge, Pulled Apart, Masterpiece, NOVA, etc. will be readily available to you now.
Investing in a premium VPN service will turn your entire online experience around and make the internet more secure for you. PBS will be just one of the many possibilities available with a VPN read on to find out more about how to watch PBS in Canada.
How to Watch PBS in Canada? [Quick Guide]
The steps below will guide you on how to successfully watch PBS in Canada:
- To start, choose a reliable VPN service and subscribe to one of its plans. Our favorite is ExpressVPN.
- Download the VPN services application on a device of your choice.
- Log in to the app using your account details.
- Connect a US server, we recommend the New York City server, from the server list.
- Launch the PBS website.
- You’re all set! You can now watch any movie or TV Show available on PBS to your heart’s content.
Why do you need a VPN to watch PBS in Canada?
To put it simply, you absolutely cannot watch PBS in Canada unless you use a premium VPN service. Geo-restrictions make this impossible. Content distribution policies and copyright law force popular streaming platforms like Netflix and Disney Plus, and even broadcasting channels like PBS, to employ geographical restrictions. This ensures that users outside a specific location are not able to access region-specific content. So if you’re wondering how to stream PBS in Canada, a VPN is the answer.
The “Loading Player” error prevented us from accessing PBS in Canada without a VPN.
A VPN for PBS will mask your local IP address to a US IP address. This will make PBS think you are in the USA. Any attempt to access PBS in Canada without a VPN will be thwarted as your local internet connection has an IP address. PBS will track this IP address, discover that you are not in the USA, and impose geo-restrictions by displaying an error. However, a premium VPN service can easily allow you to get a UP IP address in Canada and fool PBS into giving you access to their content.
Not only will you be able to access all the exclusive content on PBS, but you will also have extra protection while using the internet. Premium VPN services, like ExpressVPN, have enhanced security protocols that protect your privacy and let you access any content on the internet, including PBS.
Best VPNs to Watch PBS in Canada in 2023
Bypassing geo-restrictions and content distribution laws is not easy at all. You can’t just randomly pick a VPN for the job – you need to carefully consider the options and make a choice that will give you access to any website or streaming platform while maintaining a level of privacy and security. We have done half the work for you; we tested over 150+ VPN services and created a list containing the best VPN for PBS.
Below is a detailed look into the best VPN services to watch PBS in Canada:
1. ExpressVPN – The Best VPN to Watch PBS in Canada
Key Features
- Offers a DNS feature called MediaStreamer for VPN-incompatible devices.
- Includes more than 3000 servers in 94+ countries with 24 servers in the USA in New York City, Chicago Los Angeles, Seattle, New Jersey, Dallas, Miami, etc.
- Provides a speed of 42 Mbps download speed and 84.46 Mbps upload speed.
- Offers a simultaneous connection for up to 8 devices.
- Includes unlimited bandwidth for HD and Ultra HD streaming.
- Only for CA$ 8.96 /mo (US$ 6.67 /mo ) .
ExpressVPN is the best VPN to watch PBS in Canada because of its remarkable features, including a laser-fast speed, stunning quality, and ample security features. This VPN service offers over 3000 servers in around 94+ countries with 24 servers in the USA in New York City, Chicago Los Angeles, Seattle, New Jersey, Dallas, Miami, etc., which makes it capable enough to provide a smooth connection and excellent ability to bypass restrictions. You can rest assured that ExpressVPN will get the job done fantastically.
We wanted our ExpressVPN test results to be as accurate as possible, which is why we tested every USA server ExpressVPN has to offer. We discovered that the New York City servers offered a superior connection when it came to streaming PBS. Our trials of streaming Big Bend: The Wild Frontier of Texas proved to be extremely successful with results featuring excellent quality, consistent connection with zero interruptions, a fast speed performance, and more.
We unblocked PBS in Canada easily with ExpressVPN New York servers.
One of ExpressVPN’s best qualities is its outstanding DNS feature called MediaStreamer. This feature will let you access geo-restricted sites even on VPN-incompatible devices, like PlayStation, Xbox, Chromecast, Apple TV, etc. ExpressVPN can unblock a versatile range of websites and streaming platforms, meaning it is not limited to PBS. This includes YouTube, Hulu, Comedy Central, Netflix, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, Peacock TV, BBC iPlayer, ESPN, etc.
We have tested many VPN services over the years, but none have come close to ExpressVPN’s speed performance. Our ExpressVPN speed test in Canada showed otherworldly results of 89.42 Mbps downloading speed and 84.46 Mbps uploading speed over a 100 Mbps internet connection. You won’t face any interruptions like lags or buffering when streaming PBS through ExpressVPN. It also offers an unlimited bandwidth to ensure that users only encounter an HD or Ultra HD streaming quality.
We got excellent streaming speeds with ExpressVPN.
With a simultaneous connection of up to 8 devices with ExpressVPN, you can easily access the service on multiple devices yourself or with family and friends. ExpressVPN ensures that every customer is catered to, and this includes supporting all major operating systems, like Linux, iOS, Windows, macOS, FireOS, and Android. To make this even better, ExpressVPN works well with any kind of device, including Smart TVs, smartphones, Firestick, Kodi, Roku, laptops, PCs, and tablets.
With ExpressVPN, your safety is always a number one priority. ExpressVPN takes the security and privacy of its users very seriously, especially against hackers and cybercrime. Some of its many advanced security protocols include DNS/IP leak protection, AES-256-bit encryption, OpenVPN, no logging policy, automatic kill switch, Threat Manager, etc. With ExpressVPN, all your online traffic will be kept safe and sound.
You can utilize the 24/7 live chat support offered by ExpressVPN if you ever have any queries or problems regarding the VPN service to quickly get them resolved. The ExpressVPN free trial in Canada is a fun little too; this 7-day free trial allows users to get a glimpse of the world they can unlock with ExpressVPN. If all of this doesn’t satisfy you, the 30-day money-back guarantee will provide a full refund if you cancel ExpressVPN within 30 days. For only CA$ 8.96 /mo (US$ 6.67 /mo ) (Get 49% Off + 3 Months FREE on its 12-Month Plan), ExpressVPN is the road to an advanced and unrestricted internet.
Take a peek at our ExpressVPN review Canada for more information if you still have doubts!
- Hold an incredible ability to easily access any geo-restricted website or platform, including PBS.
- Offers a laser-fast speed performance.
- Features an advanced and robust security system.
- Offers a MediaStreamer for devices incompatible with VPNs.
- Includes an unlimited bandwidth to ensure consistent HD quality.
- Costs a lot more than other VPN services with similar features.
2. Surfshark – The Budget-Friendly VPN to Watch PBS in Canada
Key Features
- Includes a Whitelister (split tunneling) feature for enhanced security.
- Includes over 3200 servers across 65 countries with 25 servers in the USA in New York City, San Francisco, Boston, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Kansas City, New Jersey, Atlanta, Miami, etc.
- Offers a speed of 81.32 Mbps download speed and an upload speed of 76.12 Mbps.
- Simultaneous connection of unlimited devices.
- An unlimited bandwidth for a stable HD or Ultra HD streaming quality.
- Low price of CA$ 3.34 /mo (US$ 2.49 /mo )
Surfshark is the budget-friendly VPN to watch PBS in Canada because it has an incredibly affordable price of just CA$ 3.34 /mo (US$ 2.49 /mo ) (Get 84% + 2 Months FREE on 2-Year Plan). With Surfshark, you can have unlimited access to every corner of the internet at a very low price. This is made even easier with its network of more than 3200 servers across 65 countries, featuring 25 servers in the USA in New York City, San Francisco, Boston, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Kansas City, New Jersey, Atlanta, Miami, etc. Surfshark is truly one of the top cheap VPN services in Canada out there.
We tested all servers in the USA to ensure we provide you with the most accurate Surfshark review. Our results showed that the Atlanta servers worked best with PSB. We attempted to stream We Remember: Songs of Survivors on PBS. Our results proved that Surfshark is truly the right VPN for streaming PBS with a consistent high quality, incredible speed level, and an instant connection.
Surfshark’s Atlanta servers were able to unblock PBS in Canada..
Surfshark offers a DNA feature, Smart DNS, that specializes in letting VPN-incompatible devices access restricted websites and platforms; these devices include gaming consoles, Samsung TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, etc. Moreover, every part of the internet is accessible with Surfshark – you can unblock multiple geo-restricted streaming platforms like BBC iPlayer, YouTube, Comedy Central, Peacock TV, Netflix, ESPN Plus, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and many more!
Surfshark’s remarkable speed is something that makes it stand out among all other VPN services. Our Surfshark speed test in Canada showed an incredible download speed of 81.32 Mbps and an upload speed of 76.12 Mbps on a 100 Mbps internet connection. You can enjoy streaming all your favorite content at a fast speed with zero interruptions. The Surfshark unlimited bandwidth is a useful tool that promises every streaming experience is going to be in Ultra HD or 4K UHD quality.
Surfshark provided fast streaming speeds on its Atlanta servers.
Since Surfshark offers a simultaneous connection of unlimited devices, you can easily invite your friends and family to share your subscription account with you. Surfshark is compatible with all major operating systems, some of these OS include Android, MacOS, iOS, Windows, FireOS, and Linux. You can also use Surfshark’s services on any device, like PCs, Kodi, Firesticks, smartphones, laptops, Smart TVs, tablets, Roku, and more.
Surfshark offers a safe and secure environment for all users. If you choose to invest in Surfshark, rest assured that your data and online activity will always be in good hands – Surfshark employs advanced security protocols that make sure your data is away from the likes of prying eyes and hackers. Some of these features include no logging policy, AES-256 bit encryption, camouflage mode, Multi-Hop, DNS/IP leak protection, automatic kill switch, etc.
With Surfshark’s 24/7 live chat support, you can easily ask questions about the service and receive an effective and quick response from an expert. One of our favorites is the Surfshark 30-day money-back guarantee that makes sure every new user who cancels their subscription within 30 days of purchase receives a full refund. You can give the Surfshark free trial in Canada a try – this 7-day free trial will show you just what Surfshark is capable of. So why wait? Get Surfshark today and start streaming PBS.
Have a glance at our Surfshark review Canada if you’re still curious about everything this VPN service can do.
- One of the most affordable VPN services with exceptional features.
- Has the ability to bypass geo-restriction and copyright laws on multiple websites and platforms.
- Offers a simultaneous connection of unlimited devices.
- Incredible customer support team.
- Very fast speed.
- Average security protocols.
3. NordVPN – The Largest Network of Servers VPN to Watch PBS in Canada
Key Features
- Includes a DoubleVPN to provide users with extra security.
- Offers a large server network of more than 5600 servers in more than 59 countries with 15 servers in the USA in New York City, Salt Lake City, Los Angeles, San Francisco, New Jersey, San Jose, Miami, Denver, etc.
- Has a speed of 82 Mbps download speed and 44.64 Mbps upload speed.
- Offers a simultaneous connection of up to 6 devices.
- Includes an unlimited bandwidth for HD or Ultra HD streaming only.
- Now available at just CA$ 5.36 /mo (US$ 3.99 /mo )
NordVPN is the largest network of servers VPN to watch PBS in Canada and this vast number of servers ensures that every user will face a consistent and fast connection. Offering over 5600 servers in around 59 countries, with 15 servers in the USA in New York City, Salt Lake City, Los Angeles, San Francisco, New Jersey, San Jose, Miami, Denver, etc. NordVPN has become a game changer in the industry and unbeatable. With NordVPN, every user will have a high-quality online experience that will leave them wanting more.
We attempted to access PBS through every USA NordVPN has to offer. But we must say, it was the Chicago servers that truly left us satisfied with the results. Our NordVPN trials after that mostly consisted of streaming Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road on PBS through the New York City server by NordVPN in the USA. We are glad to report that every trial was beyond successful with astonishingly high speed, incredibly high quality, and a stable connection.
NordVPN was able to easily unblock PBS in Canada.
With the NordVPN DNS Feature, Smart Play, you can quickly access every kind of restricted website and platform on a VPN-incompatible device, like gaming consoles, Chromecast, Apple TV, and more. You can also bypass geo-restrictions on multiple popular streaming platforms using the help of NordVPN, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Vudu, Comedy Central, ESPN, Peacock TV, BBC iPlayer, Disney Plus, HBO Max, etc.
We never doubted that NordVPN had a fast speed performance, but the results we received in our tests left us shocked. With a download speed of 83.82 Mbps and an upload speed of 44.64 Mbps on a 100 Mbps internet connection, our NordVPN speed test in Canada shows that if you want to experience a fun time while streaming PBS without any unnecessary interruption, you need NordVPN. Moreover, NordVPN’s unlimited bandwidth is the perfect feature for everyone since it ensures a constant 4K UHD quality in every stream.
NordVPN gave us high-speed streaming on its Chicago servers.
With a simultaneous connection of up to 6 devices, NordVPN can be used on multiple devices at the same or you can share your subscription plan with friends and family. By supporting every major operating system, like Android, Windows, iOS, macOS, Linux, and FireOS NordVPN is incredibly user-friendly and easy to use. NordVPN also works exceptionally well with other devices – Firestick, laptops, Kodi, tablets, PCs, Roku, Smart TVs, smartphones, etc.
The safety and security of users is always ensured with NordVPN. This VPN service takes pride in its dedication to providing users with an online environment that is private, secure, and clear from hackers or third-party sites. NordLynx is one of its security protocols that excels in this area. Other security measures include a kill switch, camouflage mode, multi-factor authentication, Multi-Hop, DNS/IP leak protection, AES 26-bit encryptions, DoubleVPN, no logging policy, etc.
With NordVPN, you can avail the 30-day money-back guarantee that promises new users a full refund if they cancel NordVPN within 30 days. It also has efficient 24/7 live chat support has experts ready to assist users with any issues they face with the service. You can also give the NordVPN free trial in Canada a try; this 7-day free trial will allow you a glimpse into what you can do with NordVPN’s features. For just CA$ 5.36 /mo (US$ 3.99 /mo ) (Get 57% Off + 3 Months FREE on 2-Year Plan), NordVPN is the most secure VPN out there.
For more exclusive and exciting information, check out our NordVPN review Canada.
- Offer the largest server network by a VPN service.
- It can easily access geo-restricted websites and streaming platforms, like PBS.
- Has a fast speed performance.
- Offers users a simultaneous connection of 6 devices.
- The most advanced security system in the industry.
- Poor and inefficient customer service.
How Do I Subscribe PBS in Canada?
All you have to do is accurately follow the steps below to watch PBS in Canada:
- Subscribe to a plan from a premium VPN service. We always choose ExpressVPN.
- Install the VPN application and log in using your details.
- Connect to a US server on ExpressVPN, preferably the New York City server.
- Head over to the PBS website.
- Create an account through one of the available options – Google, Facebook, or Apple account or your email address.
- Complete your account verification.
- Viola! You can now subscribe to PBS in Canada and can access its extensive catalog.
How to Watch PBS in Canada without Cable?
Not every user has a cable network, especially with how fast today’s world moves with technology. So if you’re wondering ‘where can I watch PBS?’ – we have the answer right here. You can watch PBS in Europe through the official PBS website if you don’t have cable; you don’t even need an account, you can simply start streaming on any device through PBS.org or the PBS app. Moreover, other options like catching PBS streams through an antenna and streaming PBS shows on YouTube are also options available to you if you want to watch PBS in Canada without cable.
- PBS Video Streaming app/website – PBS provides on-demand services using the Video Digital PBS streaming app on any device you own, like a smart TV, smartphone, or tablet. Additionally, the PBS app also supports multiple browsers, including Safari, Microsoft Edge Chrome, and Mozilla Firefox. You can view a limited amount of on-demand programming for free, but you can access more exclusive content by subscribing to PBS Premium.
- YouTube TV – YouTube TV is an incredible streaming service that will allow you to watch PBS live and other live TV channels only for US $64.99 per month. You can even utilize the YouTube TV free trial and get a feel of the service before finalizing your purchase. Make sure you connect to a premium VPN service, like ExpressVPN, first because YouTube TV is only available to users in the USA.
What is PBS Passport and how much does it cost?
PBS passport is an exclusive feature only available to a few users. To become a holder of the PBS passport benefit, you need to simply donate to any one of the many PBS stations. This PBS passport will allow the donors exclusive access to an extended and premium on-demand PBS catalog. The amount a user needs to donate if they want to be a PBS passport holder is US $60 or more per year or US $5 or more per month to any PBS station. The user’s already extensive PBS library will now be filled with even more fun and exciting content only available to them and other PBS passport holders.
Which Devices Work with PBS in Canada?
PBS supports every kind of device out there. You don’t have to worry about buying a new device to stream PBS, you can watch PBS in Canada on any device available to you, including:
- Android (phones, laptops, tablets, TV)
- Apple TV (3rd gen and 4th gen)
- iOS (iPhone and iPad)
- Windows
- Amazon Fire TV Stick
- Mac
- Samsung TV
- Roku
- Chromecast
- Smart TV
- Xbox One
How can I watch PBS in Canada on my Android?
Android works well with PBS and it is very easy to set up too. The following steps will help you watch PBS in Canada on Android:
- Subscribe to a premium VPN service. Our recommendation is ExpressVPN.
- Download the VPN application and log in with your details.
- Connect to a server in the USA, preferably one in New York City.
- Navigate to the Google Play Store and browse for the PBS app.
- Install the application and log in or sign up.
- There you have it! You can now stream any TV Show or movie on PBS.
How can I watch PBS in Canada on iPhone?
The process of accessing PBS on an iPhone is incredibly easy and will take no time. Follow the steps below to watch PBS in Canada on iPhone:
- Navigate to the Settings app on your iPhone and change the ‘Country & Region’ of your Apple ID to the USA.
- Subscribe to a premium VPN service. Our top choice is ExpressVPN.
- Connect to a fast US server; New York City is the best.
- Move to the App Store.
- Browse for the PBS app, then download it to your iPhone and create an account.
- You’re all done! You now have unlimited access to PBS on your iPhone in Canada.
What to Watch on PBS in Canada in 2023?
Watching your favorite movies and TV Shows is everyone’s favorite activity when it comes to relaxing. Now that you know how to stream PBS, get ready for an endless selection of titles you can choose from. You can spend hours simply scrolling through the long list of content available on the PBS video app. If you don’t already know what you want to watch, it might be difficult for you to decide in the vast sea of content available. We’ve created a list of the best movies and TV Shows to help you out – you’ll be able to watch PBS in Canada as soon as possible with the help of this list.
What are the best Movies to watch on PBS in Canada in 2023?
Movies are something that can leave everyone in a good mood, doesn’t matter if it’s a sad or happy ending. From rom-coms to horror, PBS has it all. If you want to watch PBS in Canada, the following list contains some popular movies exclusive to PBS:
- Pulled Apart
- Something to Hide
- Raven
- A Murder of Crows
- Brian Wilson: Long Promised Road
- Brooklyn Bridge
- Big Bend: The Wild Frontier of Texas
- We Remember: Songs of Survivors
What are the Top Shows on PBS in Canada?
You will never be bored once you subscribe to an endless supply of thrilling TV Shows on PBS. Check out the list below to find out what’s hot in TV Shows right now if you want to watch PBS in Canada:
- Sanditon
- Sanditon Season 3
- Tom Jones
- Endeavour Season 9
- Grantchester Season 8
- Unforgotten Season 5
- Van Der Valk Season 3
- World on Fire Season 2
- Annika Season 2
- Wild Kratts
- Masterpiece
- NOVA
- Antiques Roadshow
- Arthur
- All Creatures Great and Small
- Super Why!
- Call the Midwife
- Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood
- Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood
- Downton Abbey
- Frontline
- Ken Burns’s Country Music
What is New on PBS in 2023?
PBS has an endless catalog filled with some of the most popular and exclusive content around. However, if you feel like you have watched everything good and need something more exciting or new, PBS has got you covered. It regularly updates its platforms with new and improved content that will leave everyone satisfied.
Below is a list of some new content you want to watch PBS in Canada:
- The Bank Hacker
- Rosy Abate la Serie
- Marriage
- Our House Season 1
- Tom Jones
FAQs – Watch PBS in Canada
Can I use a free VPN to watch PBS in Canada?
How much does it cost to stream PBS in Canada?
Is the PBS app free?
How can I watch PBS without a passport in Canada?
Is there an app to watch PBS in Canada?
Is PBS available through Amazon Prime?
Wrapping Up
If you live abroad or are planning to travel in Canada, there are tons of exclusive online activities only available to users in the USA. This is because geo-restrictions ensure international users aren’t able to access content that is only available to a specific location. This includes PBS, a popular broadcasting channel that is only available in the USA. However, if you want to watch PBS in Canada, you need a reliable and premium VPN service.
Through a VPN, you can bypass the geo-restrictions and copyright laws that hold you back. A VPN does this by concealing your original IP address and changing it to a US IP address this will grant you access to PBS or any other geo-restricted streaming platform. Our favorite is ExpressVPN – it’s the ideal option and can bypass restrictions placed on any online platform while providing security and privacy. With ExpressVPN, you can conquer every part of the internet and watch PBS in Canada or any TV Show or movie you desire.
