Introduction
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the best VPN for iPlayer. In today’s world, streaming has become a new norm in entertainment, making the iPlayer one of the most popular on-demand streaming platforms. Unfortunately, iPlayer content is only available in the UK, leaving a vast majority of people unable to access their favorite shows or movies. That’s where a VPN comes in.
A VPN is a virtual private network that secures your online presence and identity by encrypting your internet connection. A VPN will also help you bypass geo-restrictions, enabling you to access iPlayer content from anywhere in the world.
In this article, we’ll be discussing the best VPNs for iPlayer, highlighting their pros, cons, and features to help you find the perfect VPN for your streaming needs.
What is iPlayer?
BBC iPlayer is an online streaming platform that offers a wide range of TV shows, movies, documentaries, and podcasts. It is free to use in the UK and requires users to have a TV license. iPlayer is a popular choice for streaming live sports events, entertainment shows, and dramas.
However, iPlayer’s content is only available in the UK, leaving anyone outside the UK unable to access their favorite content.
Why do you need a VPN for iPlayer?
As mentioned earlier, iPlayer content is geo-restricted to the UK only. If you’re outside the UK and try to access iPlayer, you’ll be blocked from streaming content. A VPN is the best solution for this problem. A VPN changes your IP address, making it look like you’re accessing iPlayer from a UK location. This will enable you to stream your favorite content without any restrictions.
What makes a great VPN for iPlayer?
When selecting a VPN for iPlayer, several factors come into play. A great VPN will have the following features:
- Fast and stable connections to ensure smooth streaming
- Unblocks iPlayer effortlessly
- Has UK-based servers
- Offers solid security and privacy features
- Has an easy-to-use interface
Best VPNs for iPlayer
VPN |
Price |
Features |
Pros |
Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
ExpressVPN |
$6.67/month (15 months) |
Unlimited bandwidth, 3000+ servers in 94 countries, 30-day money-back guarantee, 24/7 customer support |
Fast speeds, unblocks iPlayer and other streaming platforms, user-friendly app, excellent security features, 24/7 customer support |
Expensive monthly plan, limited simultaneous connections |
NordVPN |
$3.71/month (2 years) |
5500+ servers in 59 countries, 30-day money-back guarantee, 24/7 customer support, ad and malware blocker |
Unblocks iPlayer and other streaming services, excellent security and privacy features, affordable long-term plans, ad and malware blocker |
Slower speeds on some servers, mobile app is bulky |
Surfshark |
$2.49/month (2 years) |
3200+ servers in 65 countries, unlimited simultaneous connections, 30-day money-back guarantee, 24/7 customer support |
Fast speeds, easy-to-use app, unblocks iPlayer and other streaming services, affordable long-term plans, unlimited simultaneous connections |
Smaller server network, inconsistent speeds on some servers |
CyberGhost |
$2.25/month (3 years) |
7200+ servers in 90 countries, 45-day money-back guarantee, 24/7 customer support, ad and malware blocker |
Effortlessly unblocks iPlayer and other streaming services, excellent server network, easy-to-use app, ad and malware blocker |
Inconsistent speeds on some servers, limited advanced features |
Private Internet Access |
$2.08/month (2 years) |
3300+ servers in 48 countries, 30-day money-back guarantee, 24/7 customer support, ad and malware blocker |
Effortlessly unblocks iPlayer and other streaming services, excellent security and privacy features, ad and malware blocker |
Inconsistent speeds on some servers, outdated interface |
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
1. Unblocks iPlayer and other streaming services
A great VPN for iPlayer will have the ability to unblock other streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and others. This means you get more value for your money and can access all your favorite content from one streaming service.
2. Enhanced security and privacy
A VPN will encrypt your internet connection, making it secure from cyberattacks, government surveillance, and hackers. This will also protect your online identity and data from any prying eyes, enhancing your privacy online.
3. Bypass geo-restrictions
A VPN will enable you to bypass geo-restrictions, giving you access to content that would otherwise be unavailable in your location. This means you can access content that is exclusive to specific locations, making streaming more enjoyable and worthwhile.
Disadvantages
1. Slower speeds
The encryption process that a VPN uses can slow down your internet speeds, leading to buffering and interruptions while streaming.
2. Not all VPNs work with iPlayer
Some VPNs may not work with iPlayer. This is because BBC has implemented advanced detection measures to block access to its content from VPN servers. Therefore, it’s best to select a VPN that specifically works well with iPlayer to avoid any disappointment.
3. Not all VPNs are trustworthy
Some VPNs may log your data, sell your information to third parties or even use your connection for malicious activities. It’s best to select a VPN that has a proven track record of upholding users’ privacy and security.
FAQs
1. Can I use a free VPN for iPlayer?
Free VPNs usually have limited server networks, slower speeds, and may even log your data. It’s best to invest in a reliable and trustworthy VPN to have the best streaming experience with iPlayer.
2. Do all VPNs work with iPlayer?
No. BBC has implemented advanced detection measures to identify and block VPNs from accessing its content. Selecting a VPN that specifically works with iPlayer is the best way to avoid any issues.
3. Can I watch iPlayer abroad with a VPN?
Yes. A VPN will help you bypass geo-restrictions and access iPlayer content from anywhere in the world.
4. Will a VPN slow down my streaming speed?
Yes, a VPN can slow down your streaming speeds due to the encryption process it uses. However, selecting a VPN with fast and stable connections will minimize these effects.
5. Can I use a VPN with my Smart TV to watch iPlayer?
Yes. Most modern Smart TVs come with built-in VPN clients or can be configured to work with a VPN. Alternatively, you can use a VPN-enabled router to connect your Smart TV to a VPN server.
6. Can I use a VPN to watch live sports on iPlayer?
Yes. A VPN will help you unblock live sports events on iPlayer from anywhere in the world.
7. Can I use a VPN on my mobile device to watch iPlayer?
Yes. All the VPNs mentioned in this article have apps that can be downloaded on mobile devices to help you stream iPlayer content.
8. Will a VPN work on all devices?
Most VPNs have apps for popular devices such as Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. However, some VPNs can also be configured to work on other devices such as Smart TVs, routers, and gaming consoles.
9. How many devices can I connect to a VPN simultaneously?
The number of devices that can be connected simultaneously will depend on the VPN provider. Some VPNs offer unlimited simultaneous connections, while others have a limited number of connections that can be made at once.
10. How easy is it to set up a VPN?
Setting up a VPN is relatively easy. Most VPNs have user-friendly apps that can be downloaded and installed in a few minutes. Alternatively, you can also configure the VPN on your router or manually set it up on your device.
11. Can I use a VPN to bypass BBC licensing laws?
No. A VPN does not bypass BBC licensing laws. You still need a valid TV license to access iPlayer content.
12. Can I use a VPN to access iPlayer on multiple devices?
Yes. You can use a VPN to access iPlayer content on multiple devices simultaneously, as long as the VPN allows multiple connections.
13. Can I use a free trial to test a VPN’s compatibility with iPlayer?
Yes. Most VPN providers offer a free trial period or a money-back guarantee that can be used to test the VPN’s compatibility with iPlayer.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a VPN is the best solution to unblock and watch iPlayer content from anywhere. The VPNs mentioned in this article have been tested and proven to work well with iPlayer. Selecting the perfect VPN for your streaming needs will depend on several factors, including connection speed, server network, and security features.
That said, investing in a reliable and secure VPN will give you access to your favorite iPlayer content without any restrictions.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only. The VPN providers mentioned in this article are subject to change, and the prices and features mentioned may not be accurate at the time of reading. Please check the VPN provider’s website for the latest information on pricing, features, and compatibility.