How to Watch CBS Outside USA [5 Easy Steps]

CBS, also known as the Eye Network is a streaming service from the USA. It’s a commercial broadcast television and radio network owned by CBS Corporation. CBS offers a variety of popular shows including the CMT Music Awards 2024, Twin Peaks, The Good Wife, and many more.

CBS is only available in the US and is blocked in other countries. If you try to watch CBS from outside the USA, you will see an error message, “Oops! This video isn’t available in your region.”

A VPN hides your actual IP address and gives you a new one from a server in the USA. This makes it look like you are accessing CBS from within the USA letting you get around geo-restrictions.

In this guide, we will show you how to easily unblock CBS and watch it from anywhere outside the United States. You’ll learn simple steps to bypass the geo-restrictions and access your favourite CBS shows no matter where you are.

5 Quick Steps to Watch CBS Outside USA

If you are outside USA and want to watch CBS, follow these 5 simple steps:

1. Get a VPN, we recommend ExpressVPN.
2. Install the VPN app on your device and log in.
3. Connect to a US server from the server list.
4. Visit the CBS website and sign up for an account.
5. Log in and enjoy streaming.

Why Is VPN Necessary to Watch CBS Outside USA?

Most streaming sites limit where their content can be viewed usually to specific regions. CBS does the same restricting its content to the US to comply with distribution and licensing rules. That is why you will need a VPN to watch CBS outside USA.

If you try to access CBS without a VPN, you will see an error message.

That’s where a VPN can help by connecting to a US server. When you connect to a server in the US, your real IP address is hidden and replaced with a US IP address. This tricks CBS’s IP tracking system allowing you to access and watch content as if you were in the USA, without getting blocked.

Best VPNs to Watch CBS Outside USA [Detailed List]

Here is a list of the best VPNs that we’ve tested and found to provide a smooth, hassle-free CBS streaming experience.

1. ExpressVPN – Best and the Fastest VPN for Streaming CBS Outside USA

ExpressVPN is the best VPN for streaming CBS outside USA. The leading VPN is known for its fast speeds, strong security, and wide range of servers. It has user-friendly apps and excellent privacy features.

ExpressVPN has a vast network with thousands of servers in 105 countries. In the USA, it offers access to hundreds of servers making sure you get reliable connections and easy access to a US IP address.

ExpressVPN’s US – New York server was working incredibly fast when we were running our tests. It established connectivity swiftly and no buffering or lag was noticed when streaming. The streaming went smoothly, in crystal clear HD quality. It gave speeds of 80+ Mbps which we think is very impressive!

As the best VPN for streaming, ExpressVPN also works with other popular geo-restricted platforms such as 9Now, Stan, Netflix, Starz Play, BBC iPlayer, Max, Hulu, and much more.

It has a useful feature called Device Groups for better streaming. You can organize your devices into different groups each connecting to a separate VPN location. You can set up to five different groups.

If you enjoy gaming on a console or streaming on a large TV, you will like ExpressVPN’s strong router support. Its easy setup allows you to connect your router quickly so you can enjoy smooth streaming and gaming on all your devices including TVs and consoles.

MediaStreamer is another feature from ExpressVPN that helps you stream on devices that don’t usually support VPN apps, like smart TVs and gaming consoles. It uses DNS to protect your connection so you can access blocked content without slowing down your speed.

ExpressVPN has great deals and discounts while maintaining high-quality service. Their yearly plan starts at $6.67 per month and often includes extra free months.

With this plan, you get full access to all of ExpressVPN’s features and a 30-day money-back guarantee. This allows you to try the service risk-free and make sure it meets your needs before fully committing.

ExpressVPN provides fast speeds, excellent streaming quality, and strong security, and works well with many devices making it a top choice for a reliable and high-quality VPN.

2. Surfshark VPN – Budget VPN to Watch CBS Outside US

Surfshark VPN is a budget-friendly and popular choice for CBS known for its strong security. It lets you connect unlimited devices with one account making it a cost-effective option for sharing.

It works with Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, routers, and streaming devices like Roku and Firestick. With over 3,200 servers in 100 countries including the USA, you can easily access CBS from outside the USA with Surfshark.

Surfshark maintains 86% of its original speed using the WireGuard protocol making sure you get good streaming quality. We had no issues connecting to a US server.

Connecting to Surfshark’s US server was quick and easy allowing you to start streaming almost right away. The server performed excellently with no buffering or lag during use. The streaming quality was top notch and there were no issues with picture clarity or interruptions.

Accessing CBS outside the USA is easy with Surfshark. Its SmartDNS feature allows you to set up the VPN on devices that don’t usually support VPN apps, such as smart TVs and gaming consoles.

Surfshark also includes ad blocking and other features to improve streaming and privacy. The app has a modern and easy-to-use design making it simple for first timers to use on any device.

Surfshark is a budget-friendly option, starting at just $2.19 per month. It includes a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 7-day free trial for Android, iOS, and macOS. With its extensive global coverage and a great balance of features, server options, and affordability, Surfshark offers reliable performance and excellent value.

Its wide network of servers makes Surfshark a solid choice for streaming CBS outside USA.

3. NordVPN – Large Server Network in US for Watching CBS

NordVPN is a great option for streaming CBS for its strong security, and the ability to bypass regional restrictions. It maintained 90% of its original speed during our streaming tests proving to be effective and reliable.

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

Connecting to NordVPN’s US server was quick and simple taking only 5-10 seconds on average. Streaming was smooth with no buffering or lag and videos played in HD without interruptions or quality drops.

NordVPN’s SmartDNS feature helps you bypass geo-blocks on smart TVs and its interface is easy to use on all platforms.

With many fast servers in the USA, NordVPN offers excellent speeds, reaching up to 83.52 Mbps out of 100 Mbps on its US servers. It also provides DNS leak protection to keep your data secure and your IP address hidden.

NordVPN starts at $3.39 per month and offers a 30-day money-back guarantee along with a 7-day free trial for Android devices. It provides a good combination of features, server options, and price.

NordVPN offers excellent performance and great value making it a top choice for fast and secure streaming.

How We Tested These VPNs to Watch CBS Outside USA?

To find the best VPNs for watching CBS outside USA, we tested them based on these key points:

• Consistency: We checked if the VPNs reliably work with CBS not just occasionally.
• Speed: We tested how well the VPNs maintain network speed during streaming to prevent lag or slowdowns.
• Privacy and Security: We looked at features like a kill switch, a no-logs policy, and extra protections like malware detection to make sure that there is a secure and private connection.
• Price: We compared VPNs to find ones that offer a good balance of affordability and quality.
• Servers: We examined the number and location of US servers to ensure they provide reliable and easy access to CBS and perform well.
• Compatible Devices: We tested VPNs on various devices and operating systems including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, smart TVs, and streaming devices to make sure that they work well across different platforms and support multiple connections.

How to Sign Up for a CBS Account Outside USA?

• Use a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN to connect to a US server.

• Go to the CBS website.
• Click on the “Sign In” option at the top right corner of the screen.

• Click on “Create Account” in the top right corner.

• A new window will appear. Click “Continue” to move forward.

• Follow the prompts, fill in the required information, and click “Continue.”

• Log in to your CBS account, and you’re all set!

Pricing Plans for CBS Subscription

CBS offers two pricing tiers for its subscription plans:

Monthly Plan:

• With Commercials: $5.99 per month
• Without Commercials: $9.99 per month

Annual Plan:

• With Commercials: $69.99 per year
• Without Commercials: $99.99 per year

Choose the plan that best fits your viewing preferences and budget.

CBS vs Other Popular Streaming Services

Below is a comparison of CBS with other US streaming services. This will help you get an idea of what suits your needs the best: 

CBS

• Content: Offers a mix of live TV, on-demand episodes of CBS shows, exclusive originals, and sports coverage.
• Pricing: Starts at $5.99 per month with commercials or $9.99 per month without commercials. Annual plans offer a discount.
• Strengths: Strong selection of CBS network shows, live TV, and sports. Includes access to CBS All Access originals and exclusive events.

Netflix

• Content: Known for its extensive library of movies, TV shows, and original content across various genres.
• Pricing: Ranges from $6.99 to $22.99 per month depending on the plan and streaming quality.

1. Basic with Ads: $6.99 per month
2. Basic: $9.99 per month
3. Standard: $15.49 per month
4. Premium: $19.99 per month

• Strengths: Large collection of original series and films, ad-free experience, and multiple device support.

Hulu

• Content: Provides a combination of live TV, on-demand TV shows, movies, and exclusive Hulu originals.
• Pricing: Starts at $7.99 per month with ads or $14.99 per month without ads. Hulu + Live TV options are available at higher prices.
• Strengths: Broad selection of current TV episodes, a range of original content, and live TV options.

HBO Max

• Content: Offers a mix of HBO’s premium content including movies, TV shows, and HBO Max originals along with a library of additional content.
• Pricing:

1. With Ads: $9.99 per month or $99.99 per year (16% savings)
2. Ad-Free: $16.99 per month or $169.99 per year (16% savings)
3. Ultimate Ad-Free: $20.99 per month or $209.99 per year (16% savings)

• Strengths: Access to a wide range of blockbuster movies critically acclaimed series and exclusive Max originals.

How to Watch CBS Outside USA on Any Device

CBS can be streamed on many devices as long as they can connect to a VPN. Here is how to watch CBS on some popular devices:

How to Watch CBS on Windows and Mac

1. Sign up for ExpressVPN and download its device on your PC/ Mac.
2. Connect to a US server.
3. Open your web browser and go to the CBS website.
4. Sign in to your CBS account.
5. Start streaming CBS content from outside the USA.

How to Watch CBS on iOS & Android

CBS on iOS:

1. Sign up for ExpressVPN on your iOS device.
2. Connect to a US server from the VPN’s server list.
3. Open the Settings app on your iOS device and tap your name.
4. Tap “Media & Purchases” and then “View Account” (you may need to sign in).
5. Tap “Country/Region” and then “Change Country or Region.”
6. Select the United States and agree to the terms and conditions.
7. Choose a payment method, enter new payment information and billing address, and then tap “Next.”
8. Go to the Apple App Store, search for the CBS app, download, and install it.
9. Start watching CBS from outside the USA.

CBS on Android:

1. Download and sign up for ExpressVPN on your Android device.
2. Connect to a US server from the VPN’s server list.
3. Open the Google Play app and tap on the profile icon.
4. Go to Settings > General > Account and device preferences > Country and profiles.
5. Select the United States and follow the instructions to add a payment method.
6. Once your account region is changed, search for the CBS app and install it.
7. Sign in to your CBS account and start watching content from outside the USA.

Watch CBS on Smart TV?

1. Sign up for ExpressVPN.
2. Connect your Smart TV to the same network as your ExpressVPN-enabled device.
3. Set up a VPN on your router or use a SmartDNS service by ExpressVPN.
4. Change your Smart TV’s region to the USA in the settings menu.
5. Download and install the CBS app from your TV’s app store.
6. Sign in to your CBS account and start watching CBS from outside the USA.

How to Watch CBS on Firestick?

1. Sign up for ExpressVPN.
2. Install the ExpressVPN app on your Firestick from the Amazon Appstore.
3. Open the ExpressVPN app and connect to a US server.
4. Go to Settings on your Firestick.
5. Select “My Account” and deregister your Firestick.
6. Sign in again with your Amazon account.
7. Change your region to the USA.
8. Search for and install the CBS app from the Amazon Appstore.
9. Open the CBS app, sign in, and start watching CBS from outside the USA.

How to Troubleshoot Common CBS Streaming Errors

Streaming CBS can sometimes be frustrating, but most common problems have simple solutions. Below are some typical CBS streaming issues and how to fix them.

Why is the CBS live stream not working?

To resolve streaming issues, try restarting your TV and phone. Additionally, make sure that the CBS app is updated to the latest version to avoid any compatibility problems.

Why can’t I cast CBS on my TV?

Make sure that both your Chromecast and the device you’re casting from are on the same WiFi network. Also, keep the CBS app updated to the latest version as this can impact your ability to stream content.

How to fix CBS error 6013?

To fix error 6013, adjust the resolution settings on your Fire TV Stick:

1. Open Settings on your Fire TV Stick.
2. Go to Display & Sounds.
3. Select Display.
4. Change the Video Resolution from “Auto” or “2160p” to “1080p.”

This should fix the error in most cases.

Popular Shows and Content Available on CBS 

Explore the popular shows and content available on CBS including hit TV series, exclusive original programs, and live events.

New Releases to Watch on CBS Outside USA

• Ghosts Season 3
• The Amazing Race Returns
• The Neighborhood Season 6
• NCIS: Hawaii Season 3 
• Tracker 
• FBI: Most Wanted Season 5 
• Young Sheldon Season 7 
• So Help Me Todd Season 2 
• The Equalizer Season 4 
• Elsbeth

Best Movies to Watch on CBS Outside USA

• Five Feet Apart IMDB: 7.2
• Seven Psychopaths IMDB: 7.1
• Inside Llewyn Davis IMDB: 7.4
• The Mechanic IMDB: 6.5
• American Assassin IMDB: 6.2
• Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark IMDB: 6.2

Best Shows to Watch on CBS Outside USA

• The Amazing Race IMDB: 7.8
• Twin Peaks IMDB: 8.8
• Undercover Boss IMDB: 5.8
• The Good Wife IMDB: 8.4
• Scorpion IMDB: 7.0
• Medium IMDB: 7.1

Conclusion

CBS, known as the Eye Network is a major US television network offering a diverse range of popular shows, live events, and exclusive content. However, CBS restricts its content to viewers within the United States due to licensing and distribution agreements. As a result, international viewers trying to access CBS outside USA will encounter geo-blocks and error messages.

To bypass these restrictions and enjoy CBS content from anywhere in the world, you need a VPN (we recommend ExpressVPN). A VPN masks your IP address and provides you with a new one from a server in the USA making it appear as though you are accessing CBS from within the country. This allows you to stream your favourite CBS shows, live events, and movies without encountering region-based barriers.

FAQs – CBS Outside USA