How to Watch BBC iPlayer in USA [5 Easy Steps]

BBC iPlayer is a popular free streaming platform in the UK with a large catalog of movies, TV shows, sports, and documentaries. It is home to some popular titles such as Peaky Blinders, Killing Eve, and Doctor Who.

However, BBC iPlayer is only available in the UK because of copyrights and licensing agreements. If you try to watch BBC iPlayer in USA, you will receive an error message:

“BBC iPlayer only works in the UK. Sorry, it’s due to rights issues.”

Luckily, you can easily bypass these geo-restrictions by using a VPN. A good VPN like ExpressVPN will change your IP address to make it seem you are accessing BBC iPlayer in UK, thus unblocking the platform.

In this article, we will guide you through the process of watching BBC iPlayer in the US, and the best VPNs for the job. Let’s dive in.

5 Quick Steps to Watch BBC iPlayer in USA

1. Sign up for a reliable VPN with UK servers such as ExpressVPN.
2. Download and set up the VPN app on your device.
3. Open the VPN app, log in, and connect to a server in UK.
4. Visit the BBC iPlayer website and create a free account.
5. Enjoy streaming your favorite shows on BBC iPlayer in USA.

Why You Need a VPN to Watch BBC iPlayer in the USA

BBC iPlayer is an on-demand streaming service from the UK, but it is only accessible within the country. If you attempt to access it from outside the UK, you will be blocked.

This practice, known as geo-blocking, restricts access to content based on the user’s geographical location, often due to licensing restrictions.

Fortunately, you can bypass these restrictions with a VPN. A VPN server masks your actual IP address, making it appear as though you’re accessing the service from the UK, while also keeping your online activity private from your internet service provider.

Best VPNs to Watch BBC iPlayer in USA

We’ve compiled a list of the best and most reliable VPNs to ensure you can stream BBC iPlayer in the USA smoothly and without any hassle.

1. ExpressVPN – Best VPN to Watch BBC iPlayer in USA

ExpressVPN is the best VPN for BBC iPlayer. It is a top-rated VPN service, widely recognized for its robust security, fast performance, and vast server network. It offers strong privacy protection through easy-to-use apps and high-level encryption.

With over 3,000 servers in 105 countries, including several in the UK and Ireland, ExpressVPN ensures access to UK IP addresses from cities like London, Manchester, and Birmingham, providing reliable connections for streaming BBC iPlayer in the US.

When we tested BBC iPlayer using a London server from ExpressVPN, it delivered flawless streaming with no lag or buffering. The video quality remained clear, thanks to its stable connection.

As one of the best VPNs for streaming, ExpressVPN supports a range of geo-restricted platforms, including 9Now, Stan, Netflix, Starz Play, CBS, Max, Hulu, and more.

It is compatible with various devices and operating systems, such as Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Apple TV, Fire TV, Chrome, and routers. ExpressVPN supports eight devices simultaneously and its apps have a user-friendly interface.

ExpressVPN also offers a Device Groups feature, enabling users to organize devices into up to five groups, each connected to different VPN locations. The router setup is simple, making it convenient for connecting TVs and gaming consoles.

Security features include Threat Manager, Split Tunneling, and Stealth Servers. The MediaStreamer feature allows streaming on devices that don’t natively support VPNs, making it ideal for accessing services like BBC iPlayer.

ExpressVPN is known for providing great value, with plans starting as low as $6.67 per month, especially with promotional deals that offer additional free months on annual plans.

It also provides a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to try out all the features risk-free to ensure it meets your needs before making a full commitment.

2. Surfshark VPN – Budget VPN to Watch BBC iPlayer in USA

Surfshark is an affordable and popular VPN service, praised for its strong security features and the ability to connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously.

With more than 3,200 servers across 100 countries, including several in the UK, Surfshark provides fast and reliable service, making it an excellent option for accessing BBC iPlayer from the USA.

Surfshark combines great performance with value. In our tests, the WireGuard protocol maintained 86% of the original speed, ensuring high-quality streaming even from distant locations like the USA.

When we connected to a UK server, the connection was almost instant, and the performance was outstanding. There was no buffering or lag, and the streaming quality remained smooth and uninterrupted, providing a seamless experience when streaming BBC iPlayer in the USA.

Surfshark is compatible with a range of devices, including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and streaming devices like Roku and Firestick. Unlike many VPNs, it allows unlimited device connections at once.

For devices that don’t natively support VPN apps, such as smart TVs and gaming consoles, Surfshark’s SmartDNS feature makes VPN setup simple. Additional features include split tunneling, ad-blocking, and privacy enhancements. The apps are beginner-friendly and easy to use.

Surfshark is highly affordable, with prices starting at just $2.19 per month. It also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 7-day free trial. With a broad server network and an excellent balance of price, performance, and features, Surfshark is a solid choice.

3.NordVPN – Large Server Network for Accessing BBC iPlayer in USA

NordVPN is a great option for accessing BBC iPlayer due to its strong security, affordability, and ability to unblock content. In our tests, NordVPN maintained 90% of the original speed, demonstrating excellent performance and reliability.

With 6,448 servers in 111 countries, NordVPN provides a fast and stable connection worldwide. Its numerous UK servers ensure smooth performance and easy access to services like BBC iPlayer.

During testing, connecting to a UK server was fast and simple. We experienced no buffering or lag, and the streaming quality remained consistently high throughout.

For security, NordVPN uses AES-256-bit encryption, a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and a strict no-logs policy, offering a strong mix of security and privacy.

It works with all major operating systems and devices, including Android TV, Apple TV, Amazon Fire Stick, and Roku. Users can connect up to 10 devices at once.

NordVPN also offers features like Meshnet for device networking and SmartDNS for bypassing geo-blocks on smart TVs. Its interface is easy to navigate across platforms.

With a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 7-day free trial, NordVPN’s plans start at $3.39 per month, offering an excellent combination of performance, server availability, and value.

How We Tested These VPNs to Watch BBC iPlayer in USA?

To determine the top VPNs for streaming BBC iPlayer in the USA, we evaluated them based on the following key criteria:

• Reliability: We checked if the VPNs could consistently connect to BBC iPlayer, not just occasionally.
• Speed: We tested the VPNs’ ability to maintain fast speeds while streaming to ensure a smooth experience without lag or buffering.
• Privacy and Security: We focused on features such as a kill switch, a no-logs policy, and additional protections like malware detection to guarantee a secure and private browsing experience.
• Affordability: We compared the pricing of each VPN to ensure they provide a good balance of cost and performance.
• Server Availability: We looked at the number of UK servers and their locations to confirm reliable access to BBC iPlayer with strong performance.
• Device Compatibility: We tested the VPNs on various platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, smart TVs, and streaming devices, to ensure they work well across different devices and allow multiple connections.

How to Sign Up for a BBC iPlayer Account in USA?

Follow these steps to create an account on BBC iPlayer from the US:

• Subscribe to ExpressVPN, download its app, and connect to a UK server.

• Go to the iPlayer website and click “Sign In”

• Click the “Register Now” button at the bottom.

• Provide a valid email address, and click ‘Continue’.

• Set up a password for your account and click ‘Continue’.

• Enter your date of birth and click Register.

• Check your email for an account verification email, and you are set to go.

Pricing Plans for BBC iPlayer Subscription

BBC iPlayer is a free streaming service. When signing up, you don’t have to pay for a subscription.

BBC iPlayer vs Other Popular Streaming Services

We’ve put together a comparison of BBC iPlayer and other popular streaming services. This helps viewers pick the service that best fits their entertainment needs.

BBC iPlayer

• Audience: Ideal for viewers seeking top British TV shows and news without a subscription fee.
• Content: Offers live BBC TV channels and a vast library of on-demand content including British TV shows, documentaries, and news.
• Special Features: High-quality British programming, no subscription needed with download options for offline viewing.
• Cost: Free with a valid TV license in the UK.

Channel 4

• Content: Channel 4 provides a range of live TV channels, movies, and on-demand shows including exclusive programs from Channel 4 and E4.
• Special Features: Offers free streaming of Channel 4’s live TV and on-demand content with options to watch shows from the past and exclusive Channel 4 series.
• Cost: Completely free to use with no subscription fees; funded by advertising.
• Audience: Perfect for viewers interested in a variety of British TV shows and Channel 4’s unique content especially those who enjoy diverse programming without paying a subscription.

ITV Hub

• Content: Provides catch-up TV for ITV channels like ITV, ITV2, ITV3, ITV4, and CITV, featuring drama, entertainment, and reality shows.
• Special Features: Access to popular ITV shows, with options for offline viewing via ITV Hub+ and live TV streaming.
• Cost: Free with ads; ITV Hub+ is available for £5.99/month to remove ads and enable downloads.
• Audience: Targets those who enjoy ITV’s broad range of programming including dramas and reality TV.

How to Watch BBC iPlayer in USA on Any Device

You can stream BBC iPlayer on various devices as long as they can connect to a VPN. The following instructions will guide you on how to watch BBC iPlayer on some of the most commonly used devices:

How to Watch BBC iPlayer on Windows and Mac

Follow these steps to stream BBC iPlayer on your Windows/ Mac:

1. Subscribe to a VPN. ExpressVPN is a reliable choice for UK servers.
2. Download and install the VPN app on your computer.
3. Open the VPN app, log in, and connect to a UK server.
4. Open your browser and go to the BBC iPlayer website.
5. Log in or create an account.
6. Enjoy streaming BBC iPlayer on your Windows PC/ Mac.

How to Watch BBC iPlayer on iOS and Android

iOS

1. Subscribe to a VPN like ExpressVPN with UK servers
2. Download the VPN app on your iOS device and connect to a server in the UK.
3. Go to Settings on your iOS device and tap your name.
4. Tap ‘Media & Purchases,’ then ‘View Account.’ Sign in if needed. Tap ‘Country/Region,’ select the UK, agree to the terms, and update your payment info.
5. Open the App Store, find the BBC iPlayer app, and download it.
6. Sign up for a free account and enjoy streaming.

Android

1. Download and install ExpressVPN from the Google Play Store, then connect to a UK server.
2. On your Android device, go to Settings > General > Account and device preferences > Country and profiles. Change your region to the UK.
3. Open the Google Play Store, find the BBC iPlayer app, and install it.
4. Create an account or log in.
5. Enjoy BBC iPlayer on your Android device.

How to Watch BBC iPlayer on Smart TV

1. Subscribe to ExpressVPN as it offers an app for Smart TVs.
2. Go to your Smart TV’s app store, download the VPN and BBC iPlayer app, and install them.
3. Connect the VPN to a UK server to get a UK IP address.
4. Open the iPlayer app or use a web browser to log in and start streaming.

If your Smart TV does not offer native VPN support and apps, follow these steps:

1. Set Up VPN on Router: Use ExpressVPN to set up the VPN on your router. This will extend the VPN to all devices connected to it, including your Smart TV.
2. Connect Smart TV: Connect your Smart TV to the router’s VPN network. The router will connect to a UK server.
3. Install BBC iPlayer App: If the app isn’t available, sideload it onto your Smart TV.
4. Log In: Use your BBC credentials.
5. Start Streaming: Enjoy BBC iPlayer on your Smart TV.

How to Watch BBC iPlayer on Firestick

1. Go to the Amazon Appstore on your Firestick, download, and install a VPN like ExpressVPN.
2. Open the VPN app, log in, and connect to a UK server.
3. Go to Firestick settings, then My Fire TV, Developer Options, and turn on “Apps from Unknown Sources.”
4. Find and install the Downloader app from the Amazon Appstore.
5. Use the Downloader app to sideload the BBC iPlayer APK.
6. Open the BBC iPlayer app and log in with your credentials.
7. Enjoy BBC iPlayer on your Firestick.

How to Troubleshoot Common BBC iPlayer Streaming Errors

Here are some common BBC iPlayer Streaming errors and their fixes:

Why does BBC iPlayer not work on my Smart TV?

If BBC iPlayer is not working on your TV, it’s possible that it’s still awaiting certification. It could also be that your TV is older and its software version is no longer supported by BBC iPlayer.

Why won’t BBC iPlayer play live TV?

BBC iPlayer occasionally can’t make live streams available on its platform because it doesn’t have the online rights.

Why is BBC iPlayer not casting to TV?

If BBC iPlayer is not casting to TV, try restarting the Chromecast dongle by removing it from the TV for a little while. Set it up again and try streaming BBC iPlayer.

Popular Shows to Watch on BBC iPlayer

Not sure what to watch on BBC iPlayer? We’ve done the hard work for you by curating a list of the top movies and shows available on BBC iPlayer.

New Releases to Watch on BBC iPlayer in USA

Here’s a list of the new releases on BBC iPlayer:

• Daddy Issues
• Dead and Buried
• Waterloo Road
• Celebrity Race Across the World
• Pickle Storm
• Colin from Accounts
• Pretty Little Liars: Summer School
• The Jetty
• Gavin & Stacey
• The Outlaws

Best Shows to Watch on BBC iPlayer in the USA

• EastEnders IMDb 4.8
• Sherwood IMDb 7.4
• Peaky Blinders IMDb: 8.8
• The Good Doctor IMDb 8.0
• Derry Girls IMDb 8.5
• Traitors IMDb 6.6
• Gossip Girl IMDb 5.4
• Doctor Who IMDb 8.5
• Suits IMDb 6.6

Best movies to Watch on BBC iPlayer in the USA

• The Proposal IMDb 8.4
• Divergent IMDb 8.2
• Pirates of the Caribbean IMDb 8.1
• Crazy Rich Asians IMDb 8.1
• Blade Runner 2049 IMDb 8.0
• Blue Story IMDb 6.3
• The Young Offenders IMDb 8.0

Conclusion

BBC iPlayer is a highly popular streaming platform in the UK, but accessing it from the USA requires a VPN connection.

A reliable VPN can hide your real IP address, making it appear as if you’re browsing from within the UK. Additionally, it will encrypt your internet activity, keeping it secure from unwanted surveillance.

Our top recommendation for accessing BBC iPlayer in USA is ExpressVPN. With over 4+ server locations in the UK, it allows easy and quick access to streaming services like BBC iPlayer. ExpressVPN offers fast, stable connections for a smooth streaming experience. You can try it risk-free with a 7-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee before committing to a longer plan.

FAQs – BBC iPlayer in USA